Summer 2025

SUMMER 2025

DELI BROS Sakib Sakiband andSaagar SaagarShaikh Shaikh PLUS PLUS

SUMMER SUMMERSOUNDS SOUNDS BEST BESTSA SALAWYERS LAWYERS TOP TOPSA SASURGEONS SURGEONS SUMMER 2025 | DISPLAY UNTIL OCTOBER 15, 2025 | $9.99

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CONTENTS 22

Beyond Borders: Redefining Fashion in the Heart of Texas

By Jules Aldaz

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Summer Soirée Playlist 2025

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2025 Best Lawyers

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2025 Top Surgeons

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Preserving the Past Amid Modern Growth

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Reforming Education: From Standardized Stress to Emotional Health

Curated by Novasoul

As voted by their peers As voted by their peers

By Berit Mason

By Jules Aldaz

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Top Doctor Profiles

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Top Lawyer Profiles

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Local Business Directory

Paid Advertising Section Paid Advertising Section

SABORMANIA! FIESTA 2025

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Paid Advertising Section

THE DRY TRUTH

by Berit Mason

64 SCENE EVENTS The 60s Sapphire Club........................................................10 Les Brunch des Chapeaux................................................... 12 Blooms & Brims...................................................................14 Master of Chicken............................................................... 20 Wish Luncheon.................................................................... 24 4

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ENTER THE SHAIKH SHACK Cover story by Ayesha M. Malik

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Issue No. 218

SUMMER 2025 San Antonio’s Original Locally Owned and Grown City Magazine – Est. 1999 William Ziller | Publisher

Ayesha M. Malik, JD | Executive Editor Nick Blevins | Managing Editor Kaylin Ledford | Associate Publisher Luna Infante | Assistant Editor Leslie Foley | Social Editor Gabriella Martinez | Advertising Sales Director Bethany Castro | Social Media Carrie Rodriguez | Ad Designer

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Berit Mason Jules Aldaz Novasoul

WE'VE REFRESHED OUR LOOK: let us know what you think

ABOUT OUR COVER Photography by Torry Sledge of Quantum Lotus Labs Styling By Max Musas; Wardrobe courtesy Gautier District 8 City Council candidate Sakib Shaikh and Deli Boys actor Saagar Shaikh pose in front of a Pakistani truck art-inspired backdrop, painted by Shek Vega, inside of the D.R.E.A.M. art district's Gravelmouth Gallery in April.

Magazine Layout and Design by Nick Blevins, Luna Infante, and Ayesha M. Malik

For editorial comments, questions, and submissions: editorial@sceneinsa.com or call (210) 828-4209 For questions on advertising, advertorial, or directory listings: advertising@sceneinsa.com or call (210) 828-4209 P.O. Box: 13423 Blanco Road #290, San Antonio, Texas 78216 SUBSCRIBE www.sceneinsa.com/subscribe, or call 210-828-4209 Scene In SA Magazine (ISSN 1942-6852) is published four times per year

by Scene Monthly, LLC. Copyright © 2025 by Scene Monthly, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Printed in San Antonio, Texas by Shweiki Media.

This magazine may not be reproduced in whole or in part in any form or any means without written permission from the publisher.

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Subscribers: If the postal service advises us that your magazine is undeliverable, we have no further obligation unless we receive a corrected address within one year.

Please allow four weeks for change of address or new orders.

Send address changes to: subscriptions@sceneinsa.com.

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elebrating over 80 years, the firm has represented corporate officials, doctors, lawyers, judges, legislators, journalists,

athletes, entertainers, public officials and others. Dedicated to improving our Justice System and holding prosecutors accountable.

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G&O represented exoneree Michael Morton, who wrongfully served 25 years for the murder of his wife, resulting in the reform of criminal discovery in Texas and the first ever criminal conviction of a prosecutor for the intentional suppression of favorable evidence. The firm represented exoneree, Hannah Overton, whose capital murder case was reversed and dismissed, got the first confession of error for Texas’ youngest death row inmate, and continues to seek vindication for Cameron Todd Willingham, whose wrongful execution was based on junk science.

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G&O has successfully represented prominent business, professional, and public figures facing criminal and regulatory difficulties, including a U.S. Congressman in the Abscam Scandal, wrestler “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, rappers 2 Live Crew, NFL and NBA players, former Panamanian President Manuel Noriega before the United States Supreme Court, a lawyer in Operation Brilab and Gonzo journalist Dr. Hunter S. Thompson.

315 E. Commerce St., Suite 301 | San Antonio, TX 78205 Tel: (210) 226-1463 | Fax: (210) 226-8367

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SUMMER 2025 |

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EDITOR'S NOTE

STAFF

So. Much. Good. Food.

We all love to eat, and our best people were on the job this season, tracking down the absolute tastiest bites. Fiesta’s Taste of the Republic and the Brighton Center’s Taste of the Northside both sourced a palate-pleasing array of talented chefs; and hey, if that snippet whet your appetite, check out my feature on the winner of Scene In SA’s first-ever Top Taste of Texas award to find out which dish was voted number one! …Do you feel that? Did it just get a whole lot cooler out here? That’s right, Novasoul is bringing back his lovingly-curated, dance-inducing selection of tasteful tracks—the Summer Vibes playlist—just for you. Check out his thoughts on each selection in the pages ahead, and maybe find your new summer obsession. Queue it up at your next gathering, and enjoy the deeply satisfying experience of everybody asking you, “Who’s this?”

Hearing brothers Sakib and Saagar Shaikh tell their story for this issue’s Puro SA (and cover!) piece reminded me a lot of my brother and I growing up. To younger brothers everywhere: you are seen. You need not always play the Tails to their Sonic, the Luigi to their Mario; you, too, can be player one. Thanks again to Burgundy and Shek at the D.R.E.A.M. district’s Gravelmouth Gallery for opening up your space for a really fun interview.

William Ziller Publisher

Nick Blevins

Ayesha M. Malik, JD Executive Editor

Kaylin Ledford

Managing Editor

Associate Publisher

Leslie Foley

Bethany Castro

Congratulations go out to our 2025 Best SA Lawyers! If you find yourself in need of various legal services, we’ve got a range of professionals nominated by their peers, ready to serve your needs. If your situation is more, let’s say, internal, our 2025 Top SA Surgeons will get you all patched up.

Finally, this letter was written in late June. For a number of reasons lately, I’ve been thinking about propriety; about the standards of behavior, and why we do what we do. Expression is a universal part of being alive. It contextualizes and personalizes each and every individual journey on this planet. A very special part of where we live is the freedom to be the people we choose to be, at home and in our community. As precious as that is though, it’s not a given. If you care about the health, happiness, and continued wellbeing of those around you, please make sure to stay informed, stay alert, and stay empathetic.

Social Media

Social Editor

Hold your loved ones close, Gabriella Martinez Advertising Sales Director

Luna Infante

Assistant Editor

Nick Blevins

Managing Editor

Kudos Thank you so much! We are so grateful for friends like you!! ~Diana Barrios Trevino Los Barrios Restaurants

Carrie Rodriguez Ad Designer

I absolutely LOVE the [Women Making Waves] article!! It was just perfect! Thank you so much for being a part of this journey!! ~Karen & Drew Meyer The Mermaid Cafe 8

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2025 Rising Star Lawyer 2025 Best Lawyer 2024 Top Family Lawyer 2024 Top Criminal Defense Lawyer

We fight to win.

FAMILY LAW CRIMINAL LAW

210.775.2000

derekritchielaw.com

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The 60s Sapphire Club

By Leslie Foley

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his year, San Antonio Gardenia Fine Arts Club is celebrating six decades in the city, making the sapphire the symbol of its 65th anniversary. Julian Gold presented spring fashions, utilizing club members as models. The fashion show’s opening act—a musical number—was conceived, designed, and produced by Melissa Gonzalez and the Wonder Theatre, featuring club members Gonzalez, Mary Doggett, and Beth Erwin. Attendees, dressed in 60s-style attire and shades of sapphire blue, sipped, shopped, and socialized, raising funds for fine arts students and special events in San Antonio and its surrounding areas. ■

Clockwise from top left: Sophie Kocurek; Beth Erwin, Mary Doggett and Melissa Gonzalez; Kendall Mazurek; Floral Centerpiece; Caro Canales and Heather Miller Co-chairs Kori Williams and Renee Wright with Kathryn Howie, club president; Christi Tidwell and Barbara Zars; Karen Bonney and Janie Everheart

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STAY INFORMED AND PREPARED WITH THE WEATHER EXPERTS ON

CHIEF METEOROLOGIST

RICKY CODY Our team of experienced meteorologists provides your latest local forecast during severe weather and every 10 minutes with our Weather on the 1s.

AVAILABLE ON CHANNEL 1 DOWNLOAD THE SPECTRUM NEWS APP AVAILABLE ON ALL OF YOUR FAVORITE DEVICES

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Les Brunch des Chapeaux

By Leslie Foley Les Brunch des Chapeaux celebrated the arrival of spring elegance to benefit the Autism Community Network. The festive, sold-out luncheon featured French flavors, refreshing cocktails, and the latest fashions from Julian Gold, featuring the Zimmermann line.

Hosted at The Argyle, Violinist Brett Detweiler welcomed guests as they enjoyed a live painting courtesy of AnArte Gallery, and opportunities to purchase sparkly surprises generously donated by Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry.

Guests sipped their glasses of bubbly retrieved from the strolling champagne table as they oohed and aahed over the fabulous event. Following brunch, fashions, speakers, and prizes, the celebration continued at the afterparty, where sips and snacks were served. ■

Clockwise from top right: Brooke Leddy and Eva Reza Holliday; Autism Community Network CEO Tiffany Fresher and Michael Fresher; Live painting, "Queen of Many Crowns" by Ana HernandezBurwell with AnArte Gallery; Jennifer Johnson and Kristan Northington; Sandy Saks, winner of the best chapeaux, with Carroll Dorsey Walker, who graciously donated Top Topper Prizes Bottom Photo: Top: Kathryn Mollicone, Kay Harig, Kathleen Whittle, Maryanne Guido, and Mary Bartlett. Bottom: Erica Buttacavoli, Brett Soules Nuenhoffer, Jenness Gough Coelho, Ashley Timbrell, and Kathy Worth

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Blooms &Brims

By Leslie Foley

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he Winston School of San Antonio hosted its 39th Annual Gala & Auction, Blooms & Brims: A Toast to Growth. Guests were greeted by Mariachi performers before settling in for the evening program consisting of auctions, fine dining, and a VIP Casino Party. Dr. Mark Weinstein and Mrs. Ellen Weinstein were honored for their extraordinary impact and contributions to the Winston School. They shared how their experiences began with personal challenges.

In the early 1980s, the couple faced a frustrating reality familiar to many parents: their son had learning differences that were being inadequately addressed by San Antonio’s existing educational options. Rather than simply accepting this limitation, the Weinsteins embarked on a remarkable journey together. On September 4, 1985, their vision of a brighter educational future became a reality when The Winston School of San Antonio opened its doors to 75 students. Now, 39 years after its founding, the school stands as a living testament to Mark and Ellen’s belief that every child deserves an education that recognizes unique potential.

This premier fundraiser played a pivotal role in supporting the academic needs of the Winston School’s students, enabling the institution to offer tuition assistance to its students and professional development opportunities for its outstanding faculty. Funds raised enabled students to bloom to new heights. ■ Clockwise from top left: Sara Sarabia, President of Winston School Parent Association; Dawn Hooker, Director of Advancement; Patricia Butler, Winston Parent; Dr. Michelle Spoonemore, Head of School, and Veronica Saenz, Winston Parent; Kristian Shah, Dr. Ravi Shah, PharmD; Sarah Drake, DNP; Dr. Safa Rubaye, and Ashley Hernandez; Kristian Shah, Dr. Ravi Shah, PharmD; Sarah Drake, DNP; Dr. Safa Rubaye and Ashley Hernandez; Teacher of the Year, Carie Clewett, and husband Drew Clewett; Fiesta Royalty: Rey Feo LXXVI Fabian Castillo, Sr. and Prime Minister Javier Oliva

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SUMMER 2025 |

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SABORMANIA! Fiesta 2025

By Nick Blevins Photography by Nick Blevins, Bethany Castro, and Torry Sledge

This year's Fiesta celebrations were a vibrant reminder of San Antonio's wealth of culture and delicious, inspired cuisine.

Your friends here at Scene In SA ventured out to a number of different events, and share all the highlights!

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Benjie's Munch Takes Home Scene In SA's Top Taste Award

By Nick Blevins

Courtesy Chef Benjie De Los Santos

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hef Benjie De Los Santos, proprietor of the eponymous Benjie’s Munch located just off the intersection of Bitters and Blanco, has been on a tear for years. You may have seen his team in the Munch Truck criss-crossing San Antonio, or visited their Hops & Hounds location for a bite with your four-legged friend. “New American Global Comfort Food,” the term Chef Benjie uses, is apt: chickens-onsticks and giant corn dogs share menu space with Vietnamese-inspired Pok Pok chicken and spinach & artichoke dip; a fine foodie’s dream.

Hot off the heels of a busy Spring season, the award-winning chef continued his winning tradition by snapping up our very first Scene In SA Top Taste award at this year’s absolutely packed Taste of the Republic Fiesta celebration. In addition to taking home a very stylish and functional trophy, we wanted to catch up with Chef Benjie to understand not just the intent that goes into crafting innovative and exemplary dishes, but also the recipe for doing so year after year.

Representing Texas’ Gulf Coast region, Chef Benjie’s dish was a blackened shrimp and blue crab spinach spread, with black bean and roasted corn pico, served atop a crispy wonton.

“People know our spinach artichoke dip, and basically that’s what I used,” Benjie explained, noting “that’s the one that’s won all the competitions.” He then proceeded to enumerate three distinct types of crustacean used for the updated version, including fresh blue crab, “and we added like seven pounds to a double batch that came out really nice.”

Each element of the entree was mused over for months, from the succulent, spiced blackened shrimp placed prominently—jewellike—at the top of the dish, down to the crispy wonton base bravely holding the entire presentation aloft atop its golden shoulders.

“When they first announced who’s doing what region, we started playing with the food a little bit. We tried it with some red tostadas, we tried it with the flour tostada, we tried it with a fried flour tortilla; we even tried it with a spring roll wrapper, and that one didn’t work.

We ended up settling on a crispy wonton, which is basically an egg roll wrapper that we cut into four and fried, and uh, I didn't realize how much work that was gonna be. [laughs] It was a lot of work.”

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It paid off: Scene In SA was on site surveying the many attendees at Taste of the Republic, asking them to name who provided the dish they enjoyed most. Toward the end of the evening, a count confirmed the consensus, sending the Munch team home with a new, well-deserved award for their displays.

Benjie’s victory makes even more sense once he shared a bit more about the level of preparation that suffuses his team’s whole operation, the result of a decades-long culinary career spent climbing the ladder, rung by rung.

“I’ve been in food service since I was like 15 and started washing dishes, worked my way up to bus boy, and server, line cook, prep cook, culinary manager, front-of-house manager, executive chef, food service director; I’ve been all those things in different capacities,” he explained. “You learn how to put things together and how to manage.”

There’s a genuine affinity for the process that’s evident as well, like when he spoke about the work that’s gone into some of his past Taste of the Republic dishes. “I get to be creative with whatever I need to do, so it makes me think, it keeps me on my toes. I gotta figure out exactly what we’re gonna do and how we’re gonna do it, and put it together to make it go fast.”

Benjie also credited his team, citing the amount of work involved in making food that’s as delicious as the first time, every time.

“We work hard to make sure that the flavors are consistent, and we've been pretty successful because the people that help me work with what I ask them to do. I show them how to do it and they run with it. I've got a good group of people that help me out.” ■

Benjie’s Munch is located in the north central side of town at 1218 W Bitters Rd #107. Their south central “Munch Truck #2” at the pet-friendly Hops & Hounds is located on 119 Avenue B, and you can follow the original Munch Truck at benjiesmunch.com. Online ordering available on the website.

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The Master of Chicken

By Leslie Foley

Culinaria hosted its annual Master of Chicken competition at The Alley on Bitters to recognize tasty chicken sandwiches. Fried, grilled, smoked, or baked, the chicken was complemented with special sauces, surprising spices, and garnishes placed on different breads for guests to enjoy while the Masters golf tournament played in the background. Attendees were each given two green golf tees to drop in a bowl at their favorite restaurant. That’s right— the winner was selected by popular vote!

Local chefs brought their best version of a chicken sandwich and competed for the title: The Master of Chicken. Guests placed their votes for their favorite, and the winner, Meadow Neighborhood Eatery + Bar Chef/Owner PJ Edwards, was awarded the winning title and received recognition for his creative chicken sandwich recipe. ■

Clockwise from top right: The Master of Chicken winner is Chef/Owner PJ Edwards from Meadow at the Alley on Bitters with his green Master jacket and Master of Chicken trophy; Chef Aaron Juvera from Southerleigh at the Pearl served a famous fried chicken slider oozing with flavorful goodness; Phillip and Jessica Gonyea from Olmos Park's Krazy Katsu served a Samurai's favorite bite: Katsu Chicken, Nanban Glaze with Purple Slaw and Nori; Culinaria fans Dr. Pam Tackett and Neal Nations sampled all the chicken sandwiches; the Master of Chicken logo; Owners and husband/wife team at Bilia Eatery in Castle Hills: Bryan Rojas and Mariana Wong served a flavorful chicken sandwich with a touch of Miami flair; Letia Tenhave and Zachary Tenhave served samples of Surtierra Tequila created to support San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo, proceeds of which support scholarships for Texas students; Abel Salazar and Ann Marie from Meadow at The Alley on Bitters served a Jalapeno Pimento Cheese + Fried Chicken Sandwich with Green Tomato and BBQ Sauce; A.C. III, from Bar Loretta in the King William neighborhood sampled a flaming hot Cheeto chicken sandwich with poblano ranch crema, cotija, jalapeno and micro cilantro; attendees browsing the offerings, deciding who will stand alone atop the culinary apex that is, the Master of Chicken

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Central Texas Roots with a Statewide Reach, and Beyond

Our firm is proud to have ten attorneys recognized among San Antonio's Best Lawyers for 2025 by Scene in SA. At Valdez & Treviño, we specialize in insurance defense and complex civil litigation, providing clients with seasoned representation grounded in rigorous legal strategy and proven trial experience.

With a track record spanning thousands of successfully litigated matters, our attorneys deliver informed, precise advocacy across Texas, Louisiana, New Mexico and beyond. From personal injury and product liability to professional malpractice and insurance coverage, Valdez & Treviño remains committed to safeguarding our clients’ interests with clarity, skill, and unwavering dedication.

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Civil Litigation Product Liability Transportation Law Labor & Employment Law

• • • •

General Negligence Insurance Law Personal Injury Premises Liability

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Professional Malpractice Subrogation Arbitration Mediation

8023 Vantage Dr. Suite 700, San Antonio, TX 78230 | (210) 598-8686 | valdeztrevino.com

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SUMMER 2025 |

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B e y o n d Borders Redefining Fashion in the Heart of Texas

By Jules Aldaz

San Antonio, long known for its rich culture and colorful traditions, is stepping into a new identity—one stitched in creativity, diversity, and international design. At the heart of this evolution are four powerhouse visionaries: Saige Thomas, Rosa Isela, GeedaJ Fikes, and Max Musas. Together, they are transforming the Alamo City into a global fashion hub—one runway, one collection, one conversation at a time.

This isn’t just a fashion moment. It’s a cultural shift—and it’s happening now.

EXPERIENCE Consent pratis - modit odiatios dundae pro maxe modit odiatios dundae (2018) Consent pratimodit - odiatios dundae pro maxe (2015) Consent pratis - modit odiatios dundae pro maxe eatem (2013) Consent pratis - modit odiatios dundae pro maxe modit odiatios dundae (2018) Consent pratimodit - odiatios

A model walks at an FGI runway event

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Rosa Isela (@rosaiselacouture) serves as FGI's Regional Director

WEARABLE ART WITH A MESSAGE “San Antonio is unstoppable. We’re building with soul, talent, and purpose—and there’s no turning back.” – Rosa Isela

Rosa Isela is a Mexican-American milliner whose couture hats are more than accessories— they’re storytelling vessels. With every piece she creates, she honors her roots and invites others to do the same.

As the Regional Director of Fashion Group International for San Antonio and Austin, Rosa is not only elevating her own brand—she’s opening doors for others. “My brand carries soul,” she says.

“Each hat connects cultures and empowers women.” To her, international fashion means freedom: the freedom to discover herself through other cultures and the courage to create with authenticity.

“Fashion is not just something you see—it’s something you feel,” Rosa shares. “Being yourself is your greatest luxury.” Her commitment to mentoring others, fostering collaboration, and bringing global conversation to local talent is why she’s one of the most respected figures shaping the region’s future.

Max Musas, founder of Musas Runway International

THE ARCHITECT OF EXCELLENCE “My work is about bridging cultural and creative visions with impeccable execution.” – Max Musas

Max Musas, founder of Musas Runway International, brings global elegance to San Antonio’s runways. With production experience spanning the U.S., Mexico, and Europe, Max understands the craftsmanship behind luxury fashion—and how to deliver it at the highest level.

His productions combine Milanese structure with Texan flair, elevating the standard for what fashion shows can be in the region. “Couture is not just about the clothing—it’s about the entire experience,” he explains. Max’s events reflect his commitment to precision, inclusivity, and luxury.

From call sheets to casting, every detail is handled with care.

He believes San Antonio is on the brink of transformation. “There’s a hunger here,” Max says.

“Designers, stylists, and producers are ready to rise—we just need to give them the right stage.”

THE VISION: CULTURE MEETS COUTURE “We aren’t just playing dress-up. We’re performing a full triage of the fashion entrepreneur.” – Saige Thomas

For Saige Thomas, President and Executive Producer of the Texas Fashion Industry Initiative (TFII), global fashion begins with community and purpose. “Why wouldn’t we want to share San Antonio’s beauty with the rest of the world?” she asks. Her journey—from producing NYFW shows for Mumbai’s Archana Kochhar to launching culturally rich runway experiences here in Texas—proves that international fashion and regional identity don’t have to compete. They can collaborate.

Through TFII, Saige is setting a new standard: one that supports designers from all backgrounds with education, contracts, transparency, and opportunity. “We include dietary preferences on our model forms because everyone deserves to feel seen and respected,” she says. Her attention to detail reflects a deeper mission—to create a sustainable, inclusive, and globally aware fashion ecosystem in San Antonio.

ISLAND TRADITION, WORLDLY DESIGN “My goal is always to remind people of nature’s beauty—and to show them they can wear it.” – Geeda J. Fikes

Photo courtesy GeedaJ Fashion

GeedaJ Fikes, creator of Geeda J Fashions, brings her Caribbean heritage to life with every stitch.

From fishing-net-inspired rope dresses to woven straw gowns seen at Texas Fashion Week, her designs merge natural elegance with avant-garde edge.

Raised in the village of La Plaine, Dominica, Geedaj grew up surrounded by vibrant wildlife and ocean landscapes, which still inspire her work. “I grew up watching fishermen mend nets and women braid straw. Those textures and stories live in my collections,” she says.

Her custom design process is intimate and intentional. “They’re not just wearing a dress; they’re wearing a story,” she says. Her fashion classes at the San Antonio Public Library further her mission to inspire and educate the next generation of designers, proving that couture doesn’t have to come from Paris to be powerful. ■

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SUMMER 2025 |

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WISH Luncheon

Women Inspiring Strength and Hope

By Leslie Foley

Giving back in style while making dreams come true!

Make-A-Wish Central & South Texas hosted the chic and charitable WISH luncheon in March, bringing together our community’s movers and shakers, AKA inspiring women. This group is making a difference and fulfilling the organization’s mission of granting life-changing wishes for children diagnosed with critical illnesses. Wish kids Kenzie and Xierra, alongside their families, shared their inspiring stories, demonstrating how a single wish can be life-changing and provide hope and joy during some of life’s toughest moments.

Attendees sipped and shopped at the exclusive marketplace filled with unique and stylish finds, viewing the latest spring fashions from Mayra Farret, founder of Fashion Taste Makers TX. Guests also had the opportunity to indulge in delicious cuisine paired with fine wines and signature cocktails, leaving them satisfied as they donated generously.

The annual fundraiser was successful, prompting toasts celebrating 40 years of wishes. The foundation has granted more than 6,500 wishes in the local community since 1984! ■

Clockwise from top right: Sashaying the runway; Stylish from head to toe; Ready for the summer heat; Adriana Spencer, Leslie Lloyd, Lindsay Sebek and Melinda Cain; Table of attendees having a bit of fun; Christina Snell, Lorena Kieser, Andrea Taurins, Emily Franke and Amy King; Roxana Gomez selling products from WAPA Handmade; Bri Longoria purchased a new hat and band from West Hill Hat Collection

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Maria T. LoRusso, P.C. BUSINESS/CORPORATE LAW | FASHION LAW ATTORNEY MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION | FINANCE | ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR IN PRACTICE

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AWARDS

Officer, Board of Directors Fashion Group International, Inc., SA 2018-2019 | Top Attorneys of North America, Corporate/Business Law 2017 – 2023 | Who’s Who Top Professionals, Attorneys Ed. 2016 | Best of USA – Attorneys: Corporate/Business Law | Best of USA.org 2016-2017 | Vogue Magazine December 2015, May/September 2016, March Style Issue 2017 | Boardroom Elite Award (New York) 2017 Corporate/Business | San Antonio Woman Magazine July/August 2015 | Forbes November 2017 | Small Business Lawyer of the Year – Finance Monthly Law Awards, 2018

At the intersection of Law and Finance, lies my role as a Corporate/Business Attorney.

This niche positions me to serve my clients as an in-house counsel serves a large corporation. Developing economic strategies to successfully integrate and coordinate the management of business affairs, analyze contracts and leases, manage litigation, assist CEOs, CFOs, tax professionals, banking/investment advisors and insurance representatives, into the legal and financial infrastructure of a business. Legal representation and business counsel are essential resources for every business owner – together they become the road map and compass to navigate a successful course to continued success.

210.404.9200 | lorussobusinesslaw.com 19202 HUEBNER ROAD, SUITE 103 | SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS

Summer Soirée Playlist 2025

Article & Selections by Novasoul

THE PLAYLIST Artist Song (Record Label) --------------------------------------------edbl Just You and I (EDBL Records) Pieces Of A Dream Warm Weather (Elektra) Kokoroko Closer To Me (Brownswood Recordings) Michi, Gabriel de Rosa Memmy (Recuerdo) (Stones Throw) Lewis Ofman, Alicia te quiero Siesta Freestyle (Profil De Face) João Selva Quero Você (Underdog Records) Sonya Spence Let Love Flow On (High Note)

Congratulations are in order, we made it to another sizzling Summer! Without exaggeration, I think we deserve a break from these intense headlining days, don’t you? Adults need Summer breaks too. And let there be no shame in how you choose to enjoy your time away; take a siesta, join one of the many trending running clubs, book a sojourn from our city, plan a staycation, touch some hot sand with bare feet, or catch some salty warm waves.

Speaking of waves, I have been honored to once again collaborate with my friends at Scene In SA to select some sound waves that I feel our souls need now more than ever. This year’s Summer Soirée Playlist was curated as melodic medicine with the intention of bringing us closer together through movement. Whether that be intimately to your significant other, or stepping in sync with a future friend on a dance floor as these tracks transition from breezy, simmering soul, to sprinkles of uptempo Afro-Latin baile and disco beats.

Disco, you say? Yes, the music that never dies (thankfully), and for good reason, since its four-to-the floor percussion patterns and infectious soulful vocals gave birth to several genres like house, techno, electro, early rap, nu-disco, and even hyper pop. Additionally, the opulent disco parties of the 1970’s popularized by our Black, Latin, Gay, and Queer communities helped usher in larger dance clubs and thus more advanced sound systems to accommodate these posh open spaces. Earlier this year, I was blessed to deejay a couple of personal ‘bucket list’ events, including The WEBB Party’s Studio 54 disco themed fundraiser! Alas, born decades too late, and not in New York, my feet would never glide across the dance floor at the infamous night club. However, these scintillating rhythms reached my ears via my parent’s immaculate disco and funk vinyl collection, and thus my passion poureth.

My second dream event was in February when I deejayed San Antonio’s unique annual Newlywed Block Party which occurs at midnight on the eve of Valentine’s Day. It's a truly magical occasion when dozens of couples simultaneously say “I do” on the steps of the Bexar County courthouse in front of a massive gathering of family, friends, and fans of romance. Being a native to SA and having provided music entertainment for a plethora of weddings, I have I always wanted to soundtrack this fiesta of love. Aphrodite must have heard me when I was hired for this year’s party at Main Plaza! Participating in commitment ceremonies has become grounding for me, as I am reminded of this eternal universal truth: LOVE RULES ALL. Inspired by both of those euphoric experiences (and an ounce of naiveté), I selected these twenty songs of the Summer Soirée Playlist for their themes of love, self-love, celebration, and baby-making tempos, all sonic stimuli for us to get closer together. It seems nearly common knowledge by now, but thanks to decades of continuous scientific data, dancing has been shown to have positive psychological benefits, elevating our feel good hormones which can reduce our stress and increase our social connections. With that in mind, muévete, and blast this playlist everywhere! ■

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George Benson Give Me the Night (Warner) Curtis Mayfield Summer Hot (The Boardwalk Entertainment Co.) Samantha Schmütz, Adrian Younge More Than Love (Linear Labs) TOKiMONSTA, Oby Onyioha Enjoy Your Life (Young Art Records) NxWorries Everybody Gets Down (Stones Throw) Suté Iwar [escapism] (Outer South) VHOOR, Mc Britney Desce Vai (Aquecimento) Nubiyan Twist Breeze (Dub Version) (Strut Records) Reyna Tropical Conocerla (Amantes Del Futuro Remix) (Psychic Hotline) Durand Jones & The Indications Flower Moon (Dead Oceans) Jenevieve Head Over Heels (Interscope) Amaria All I’d Ever Known (Fashionably Early Records) SAULT K.T.Y.W.S. (Forever Living Originals) Note: this entire playlist is safe for work, featuring no expletives or provocative subject matter.

--------------------------------------------Novasoul, aka Robert Gonzales, is a San Antonio based DJ and independent record label owner/artist.

For booking info: djnovasoul@gmail.com Upcoming Novasoul DJ performances: ‣ How We Do at Jandro’s Garden Patio. A monthly hip hop and beats showcase hosted by Jose ‘Spy MC’ Perez. ‣ We Need SOULutions at Carmen’s de la Calle. Spoken word open mic monthly hosted by Andrea ‘Vocab’ Sanderson.

Follow on Instagram: @_novasoul for complete DJ schedule & event details.

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THE LAW OFFICE OF

Bobby Barrera

Past President of the San Antonio Bar Association

Super Lawyers © Rated by “Super Lawyers” 2016 - 2025

Criminal Law, State & Federal Honored by his colleagues as one of San Antonio’s

Top Five Criminal Defense Lawyers for 2017, 2018, Voted #2 in 2020 _________________________________

Top DWI Defense Lawyers

for 2014 -2024 Voted #1 in 2022 _________________________________ Voted as one of San Antonio’s

Best Criminal Defense Lawyers for the last 20 years _________________________________

San Antonio Best Family Lawyers as published in Scene In SA Magazine

41 Years Jury Trial Experience • Murder and Homicide Cases • Sexual Assault - Domestic Violence Assault • Federal Drug and Smuggling Cases • DWI Cases, Intoxication Manslaughter

bobbybarreralaw@gmail.com www.bobbybarrera.com 424 E. Nueva Street San Antonio, TX 78205 OFFICING WITH

The Barrera Firm

(210) BAR-RERA 2 2 7- 7 3 7 2

Experienced and Personal Attention for All Your Legal Needs

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SUMMER 2025 |

27

Best SA Lawyers 2025 Scene In SA is pleased to honor lawyers in San Antonio and Bexar County who were nominated as Best SA Lawyers across various specialities in our 21st annual survey of their peers.

Every effort was made to confirm the information presented here. Scene In SA is not responsible for any inaccuracies in the information provided to the magazine. Listings are alphabetical by practice area.

Disclaimer: The information presented in Best SA Lawyers is not legal advice, nor is it a lawyer/legal referral service. Scene In SA is an independent magazine published by Scene Monthly, LLC and has developed its own methodology for selecting practitioners for its Best SA Lawyers lists. All practitioners featured in Best SA Lawyers were selected by their peers in a survey conducted by Scene In SA. Paid advertising has no bearing on the determination of the list. Scene In SA strives to maintain a high degree of accuracy in collecting and providing the information presented herein, but makes no claim, promise, or guarantee about the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the information. Best SA Lawyers is a trademark used by Scene In SA and Scene Monthly, LLC, not a title or moniker conferred upon individual practitioners. The selection of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely on the information provided in this publication. No representation is made that the quality of services provided or performed by the practitioners listed will be better than that of other licensed practitioners, and past results do not guarantee future success. Scene In SA and Scene Monthly, LLC are not affiliated with any federal, state, administrative, or regulatory bodies or examining, licensing, and/or certifying entities (such as the Texas Board of Legal Specialization). These listings are merely descriptive of a practice area and do not certify or designate a lawyer to be a specialist. Scene In SA does not endorse or otherwise recommend persons who may appear on this list. © 2025 SCENE MONTHLY, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

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| SUMMER 2025

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APPELLATE Nadeen Abou-Hossa

Gonzalez Chiscano Angulo & Kasson, PC

Zachary B. Aoki

Thurman & Phillips, PC

Scott M. Bage

Law Office of Scott M. Bage, PC

Gerald H.Goldstein Goldstein & Orr

Per Ann Hardy

Law Offices of Per Hardy

Leslie Hyman

Roberts Markel Weinberg Butler Hailey, PC

Angela Moore

Angela Moore Attorney At Law

Michael J. Murray Guerra, LLP

Dan Pozza

Pozza & Whyte

J. Caleb Rackley Guerra, LLP

Robinson C. Ramsey Langley & Banack, Inc

Eduardo Salazar Goldstein & Orr

Mark Stevens

Mark Stevens Law Offices

Catherine M. Stone Langley & Banack, Inc

ARBITRATION & MEDIATION Hilary A. Bell

Bell Ripper, PLLC

Ronald Barry Brin Brin & Brin, PC

Aric J. Garza

Aric J. Garza Law, PLLC

Michael W. Jackson

Law Office of Michael Jackson

Donald R. Philbin, Jr. Donald R. Philbin, Jr, PC

John J. Specia

Plunkett, Griesenbeck & Mimari, Inc

BANKING Steven R. Brook

Langley & Banack, Inc

BANKRUPTCY Robert L. Barrows Langley & Banack, Inc

David T. Cain

Law Office of David Cain

Allen M. DeBard

Langley & Banack, Inc

© 2025 SCENE MONTHLY, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

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SUMMER 2025 |

29

2025

Best SA Lawyers

David S. Gragg

Michael Arispe

Michael B. Thurman

Randall A. Pulman

Kelli M. Borbon

Lauren Valkenaar

Kerry S. Alleyne Simmons

Langley & Banack, Inc

Aric J. Garza Law, PLLC

Thurman & Phillips, PC

COMMERICAL LITIGATION

Valkenaar PLLC

Steven D. Browne

Elliott S. Cappuccio

Roberts Markel Weinberg Butler Hailey, PC

CITIES/MUNICIPALITIES

Elliott S. Cappuccio

Natalie F. Wilson

Jenna C. Castleman

Fred Riley Jones

Castleman & Associates, PC

Langley & Banack, Inc

BANKRUPTCY / CONSUMER

Steve A. Chiscano

Mark Kosanovich

Gonzalez Chiscano Angulo & Kasson, PC

Fitzpatrick & Kosanovich

Scott E. McCarty

David T. Cain

Tiffanie Clausewitz Clausewitz Reyes, PLLC

CIVIL LITIGATION

Ian McLin

Pulman Leflore Pullen & Reed, LLP Pulman Leflore Pullen & Reed, LLP Langley & Banack, Inc

Law Office of David Cain

William R. Davis

Langley & Banack, Inc

BUSINESS & CORPORATE Stephen A. Aguilar

Michael Best & Friedrick, LLP

Kelli M. Borbon

King & Sommer, PLLC

Tiffanie Clausewitz Clausewitz Reyes, PLLC

Kristen Elizondo

Elder Bray & Bankler, PC

Grant M. Gaines Patel Gaines, PLLC

King & Sommer, PLLC

Stephen T. Dennis Clark Hill

Grant M. Gaines Patel Gaines, PLLC

Aric J. Garza

Aric J. Garza Law, PLLC

Herbert S. Hill

Curl Stahl Geis, PC

Joe R. Hinojosa

Barkhurst & Hinojosa, PC

Kathlyn E. Hufstetler Patel Gaines, PLLC

Byron L. Leflore, Jr.

Pulman Leflore Pullen & Reed, LLP

Leslie C. Kassahn Kassahn & Ortiz, PC

David Gard

Langley & Banack, Inc

Katrina Leigh Hamrick Hamrick Law Firm

Peter L. Kilpatrick Langley & Banack, Inc

Roger D. Kirstein Langley & Banack, Inc

Kathlyn E. Hufstetler Patel Gaines, PLLC

James R. Old, Jr. Zackry Group

Sarah R. Irwin

Rahul B. Patel

Patel Gaines, PLLC

Patel Gaines, PLLC

Leslie C. Kassahn

Eric A. Pullen

Casandra C. Ortiz

Kassahn And Ortiz, Attorney At Law

Omar Ochoa

Omar Ochoa Law Firm

Langley & Banack, Inc

Roberts Markel Weinberg Butler Hailey PC

Beto Lara Denali Law

Valdez & Trevino

Langley & Banack, Inc

Brittany Olsen

Roberts Markel Weinberg Butler Hailey, PC

Drew A. Senulis

Roberts Markel Weinberg Butler Hailey PC

CIVIL LITIGATION: DEFENSE

Chris Trevino

Jenna C. Castleman

Stephen E. Walraven

Castleman & Associates, PC

Langley & Banack, Inc

John H. Ferguson IV

CONSTITUTIONAL LAW

Drought, Drought, & Bobbitt, LLP

Henry B. Gonzalez

Gonzalez Chiscano Angulo & Kasson, PC

Cathrin J. Martinez

Benjamin, Vana, Martinez & Cano, LLP

Shellie R. Reyes

Clausewitz Reyes, PLLC

Karen D. Smith

King & Sommer, PLLC

Laura Garcia Smothers Clausewitz Reyes, PLLC

CLASS ACTION/ MASS TORTS Carl J. Kolb

Roberts Markel Weinberg Butler Hailey, PC

Matthew Gossen

Edward L. Piña & Associates, PC

Edward L. Piña

Edward L. Piña & Associates, PC

CONSTRUCTION LITIGATION Elliott S. Cappuccio

Roberts Markel Weinberg Butler Hailey PC

Grant M. Gaines Patel Gaines, PLLC

Shellie R. Reyes

Clausewitz Reyes, PLLC

Carl J. Kolb, PC

Annalyn G. Smith

Randall A. Pulman

CLOSELY HELD BUSINESS

Laura Garcia Smothers

Ryan C. Reed

Pulman Leflore Pullen & Reed, LLP

Tiffanie Clausewitz

Richard H. Sommer

Clausewitz Reyes, PLLC

King & Sommer, PLLC

Shellie R. Reyes

Clausewitz Reyes, PLLC

Sarah R. Irwin

William W. Sommers

Clausewitz Reyes, PLLC

Langley & Banack, Inc

Kelly Putney Rogers

Janet L. King

West Winter

King & Sommer, PLLC

The Winter Law Firm, PLLC

King & Sommer, PLLC

COLLABORATIVE LAW

CONSUMER LAW

Laura Garcia Smothers

Hilary A. Bell

Kenneth Ernest Grubbs

Dublin & Associates

Barry Snell

BUSINESS LITIGATION

Richard H. Sommer King & Sommer, PLLC

COMMERCIAL INSURANCE DEFENSE: PI

Luther H. Soules

Jennifer Neal

Kassahn & Ortiz, PC

Janet L. King

King & Sommer, PLLC

James K. Lowry Flume Law Firm

Rahul B. Patel

Patel Gaines, PLLC

Ryan C. Reed

Pulman Leflore Pullen & Reed, LLP

Shellie R. Reyes

Clausewitz Reyes, PLLC

Eileen E. Sommer King & Sommer, PLLC

Eric Whittington

Nadeen Abou-Hossa

Gonzalez Chiscano Angulo & Kasson, PC

Pulman Leflore Pullen & Reed, LLP Pulman Leflore Pullen & Reed, LLP

Rogers & Elliott, PLLC

Karen D. Smith

Clausewitz Reyes, PLLC Bayne, Snell & Krause

Soules & Wallace

Bell Ripper, PLLC

Schmoyer Reinhard LLP Clausewitz Reyes, PLLC

Law Office of Kenneth E. Grubbs

Wyatt Wright

Wayne Wright, LLP

Guerra LLP

© 2025 SCENE MONTHLY, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

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| SUMMER 2025

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YOUR GOALS. OUR EXPERTISE. A full-service, Texas law firm serving the needs of clients in Community Association, Corporate, Litigation and Real Estate Law since 1981. We have provided our clients with practical and efficient solutions to help them grow along with us. With offices in San Antonio, Houston, Frisco, and Austin, the firm includes more than 40 lawyers with diverse practice areas and backgrounds who have the experience, resources, and legal skills to handle a wide range of legal issues.

For more information visit our website

CALL RMWBH

210.731.8858

rmwbh.com 4630 N. Loop 1604 W Suite 311 San Antonio, Texas 78249

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31

2025 CORPORATE GOVERNANCE/ COMPLIANCE Tiffanie Clausewitz Clausewitz Reyes, PLLC

Grant M. Gaines Patel Gaines, PLLC

Best SA Lawyers Andrew C. Froelich

Libby Wiedermann

Marissa Lynn Giovenco

Ronnie Wilkins

The Law Office of Andrew C. Froelich The Law Office of Marrisa L. Giovenco

Matthew Gossen

Edward L. Piña & Associates, PC

Kurt W. Gransee Rush & Gransee, LC

Sarah R. Irwin

Clausewitz Reyes, PLLC

Rahul B. Patel

Gerald H.Goldstein Goldstein & Orr

Valerie A. Hedlund

Patel Gaines, PLLC

Shellie R. Reyes

Clausewitz Reyes, PLLC

CORPORATE LAW Beto Lara Denali Law

The Law Office of Valerie Hedlund, PLLC

Jesse Hernandez

The Law Office of Jesse Hernandez

Stephen Howes

Law Office of Derek Ritchie

Patrick E. Hundley

CRIMINAL DEFENSE

Law Office of Patrick Hundley

John S. Gilmore III Goldstein & Orr

Steven Arce

Steven Arce Law

Monica R. Khirallah

Christopher Michael Arce The Arce Law Firm

Law Office of Monica R. Khirallah

Michael De Leon

Anthony Bancroft

Law Office of Anthony Bancroft

Bexar County District Attorney's Office

Cleophus W. Marshall Marshall Law Firm

Bobby Barrera

The Law Office of Bobby Barrera, PC

Robert J. Barrera The Barrera Firm

Richard Timothy Molina Duarte & Molina, PC

Ashley E. Morgan

Roy R. Barrera, Jr The Barrera Firm

Soyars & Morgan Law, PC

Kaylie M. Morgan

Celenne Beck

Law Office of Jesse Hernandez

Caitlin E. Bennett Jean Brown Law

Alexis Biedrzycki Goldstein & Orr

Shawn C. Brown

Law Office of Shawn C. Brown, PC

Alfonso Cabañas

Cabañas Law Firm, PLLC

Kristin F. Dow

Law Office of Kristin Fiacco Dow

Demetrio Duarte Duarte & Molina, PC

Derek W. Emmons

Law Offices of Derek W. Emmons, PC

Robert H. Featherston Carroll & Hinojosa, PLLC

Beauregard Fiegel Fiegel Law

Patrick John Filyk

Law Office of Patrick J. Filyk

Adrian Flores Law Office of John J. Fox

CRIMINAL DEFENSE: DUI/DWI Anthony Bancroft

Law Office of Anthony Bancroft

Robert J. Barrera The Barrera Firm

Shawn C. Brown

Law Office of Shawn C. Brown, PC

Kristin F. Dow

Law Office of Kristin Fiacco Dow

Derek W. Emmons

Law Offices of Derek W. Emmons, PC

Robert H. Featherston Carroll & Hinojosa, PLLC

Adrian Flores Trey Porter Law

Justin Fowlks

Lahood Law, PLLC

John J. Fox

Law Office of John J. Fox

Hector Gonzalez

Law Office of Hector Gonzalez, III, PC

Kurt W. Gransee Rush & Gransee, LC

Valerie A. Hedlund

The Law Office of Valerie Hedlund, PLLC

Robert J. Barrera The Barrera Firm

Kristin F. Dow

Law Office of Kristin Fiacco Dow

Derek W. Emmons

Law Offices of Derek W. Emmons, PC

Robert H. Featherston Carroll & Hinojosa, PLLC

John J. Fox

Law Office of John J. Fox

Patrick E. Hundley

Law Office of Patrick Hundley

Abasi Daudi Major The Major Law Firm

Cleophus W. Marshall Marshall Law Firm

Thomas J. Mchugh

The Law Offices of Thomas J. Mchugh, PLLC

Charles J. "Chad" Muller Chamberlain Hrdlicka

Zacery Arick Munoz

The Law Office of Munoz & Paltz, PLLC

Cynthia E. Hujar Orr Goldstein & Orr

Adam J. Paltz

Law Office of Munoz & Paltz PLLC

Libby Wiedermann

Law Office of Libby L Wiedermann

ELDER LAW

Jesse Hernandez

Zacery Arick Munoz

The Law Office of Munoz & Paltz, PLLC

Stephen Howes

Bryan S. Orihel

Law Office of Shawn C. Brown, PC

Michael De Leon

Cynthia E. Hujar Orr Goldstein & Orr

Cleophus W. Marshall Marshall Law Firm

EMPLOYMENT LITIGATION: DEFENSE

Amy E. Owen Jean Brown Law

Zacery Arick Munoz

Kelli M. Borbon

Adam J. Paltz

Law Office of Munoz & Paltz PLLC

Bryan S. Orihel

Tiffanie Clausewitz

Jonathan R. Perez

The Law Office of Jonathan Perez

Amy E. Owen

Donna K. McElroy

Mary Pietrazek

Pietrazek Law, PLLC

Adam J. Paltz

Edward L. Piña

Trey Porter

Trey Porter Law

Trey Porter

Karen D. Smith

Kathleen Suzanne 'Katie' Roberts South Texas Law Group, PLLC

Kathleen Suzanne 'Katie' Roberts

Michael H. Wallis

Mark Stevens

Mark Stevens Law Offices

Joseph Strickland

Stephanie L. Stevens

Libby Wiedermann

EMPLOYMENT LITIGATION: PLAINTIFF

Joseph Strickland

John J. Fox

Goldstein & Orr

CRIMINAL DEFENSE: WHITE COLLAR

O'Hanlon, Demerath & Castillo Attorneys and Counselors At Law

Center For Legal & Social Justice

Trey Porter Law

Law Office of Libby L Wiedermann

Trey Porter Law

The Law Office of Jesse Hernandez Law Office of Derek Ritchie Bexar County District Attorney's Office

The Law Office of Munoz & Paltz, PLLC Law Office of Shawn C. Brown, PC Jean Brown Law

Law Office of Munoz & Paltz PLLC Trey Porter Law South Texas Law Group, PLLC Trey Porter Law

District Judge, 175th Judicial District

Carol Bertsch

Law Offices of Carol Bertsch, PC

George E. Carroll

Carroll Law Group, PLLC

King & Sommer, PLLC Clausewitz Reyes, PLLC Dykema Gosset PLLC

Edward L. Piña & Associates, PC King & Sommer, PLLC Langley & Banack, Inc

Anthony Bancroft

Law Office of Anthony Bancroft © 2025 SCENE MONTHLY, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

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| SUMMER 2025

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33

2025

Best SA Lawyers

Edward L. Piña

David G. Balmer

Kristina L. Kunz

Heather Clement Tessmer

S. Tyler Rutherford

William T. Bayern

Maria T. LoRusso

Whitney Renee Thomas

ENERGY, OIL & GAS

Arthur H. Bayern

Todd A. Marquardt

Alexandra Irene Tragos

Stephen J. Ahl

Langley & Banack, Inc

Hilary A. Bell

Bob Negley

Zachary B. Aoki

George E. Carroll

Edward L. Piña & Associates, PC The Rutherford Law Firm, PLLC

Thurman & Phillips, PC

Elizabeth Drought Burney Drought, Drought & Bobbitt, LLP

Sean M.Caporaletti

Drought, Drought & Bobbitt, LLP

McKenna Crawford Langley & Banack, Inc

Drew Mallender

Pulman Leflore Pullen & Reed LLP

Julia W. Mann

Jackson Walker LLP

Les J. Strieber

Brock Upham Yost & Strieber, PLLC

Balmer Law Firm, PC

Langley & Banack, Inc Langley & Banack, Inc Bell Ripper, PLLC

Carroll Law Group, PLLC

J. Mark Edgmon

Granstaff, Gaedke & Edgmon, PC

Tanya E. Feinleib Langley & Banack, Inc

F. Matthew Flores Langley & Banack, Inc

Gina B. Gaedke

Granstaff, Gaedke & Edgmon, PC

Charles A. Granstaff

Granstaff, Gaedke & Edgmon, PC

Chance Heinsohn Caritas Legal Services

ESTATE PLANNING & TRUSTS

Burt Alan Holland

Robert "Bob" Augsburger

Drought, Drought, & Bobbitt, LLP

Werner & Augsberger

James J. Aycock Langley & Banack, Inc

Private Practice

John H. Ferguson IV Roy A. Jeffries

Granstaff, Gaedke & Edgmon, PC

Clark Hill

Maria T. Lorusso, JD, MBA, PC Marquardt Law Firm, PC

Tessmer Law Firm, PLLC

Whitney Thomas Law Firm

Catholic Charities Archdiocese of San Antonio

Catholic Charities Archdiocese of San Antonio

Charles J. Weisinger

Daniel J. Palmer

Carl A. Werner

Samuel Tyler Peace

Cameron Woo

Jessica Pilar Rojas Quesada Weisinger Law Firm, PLLC

FAMILY LAW

Ivan Ramirez

Amber Liddell Alwais

Law Office of Ivan Ramirez & Associates

Orsinger Law

Alexander S. Roig

Kristy L. Arellano

Alexander S. Roig, PLLC

Law Offices of Kristy Arellano

Martin (Marty) I. Roos

Anthony Bancroft

Clark Hill

Law Office of Anthony Bancroft

Joseph P. Rubin

Bobby Barrera

Law Offices of Joseph P. Rubin, PC

The Law Office of Bobby Barrera, PC

Hella V. Scheuerman

Grace Barrera

Scheuerman Law Firm, PLLC

Law Office of Grace Barrera

Laura Garcia Smothers

Hilary A. Bell

Clausewitz Reyes, PLLC

Bell Ripper, PLLC

Suzanne Leigh Coates Taylor

Caitlin E. Bennett

Marquardt Law Firm, PC Elder Bray & Bankler, PC

The Law Office of Suzanne Coates Taylor

Weisinger Law Firm, PLLC Werner & Augsburger Langley & Banack, Inc

Jean Brown Law

Best Lawyers 2025 - Land Use & Zoning At Brown & McDonald PLLC, we provide strategic land use and zoning counsel throughout San Antonio and Bexar County. With deep local experience and strong relationships, we help our clients navigate planning, permitting, and development with clarity, efficiency, and real results.

Ken Brown - Partner

Caroline McDonald - Partner

We are honored to be recognized by Scene in SA as 2025 Best Lawyers in Land Use & Zoning!

MiaMarie Pugh - Associate

Venessa Rodriguez Wurzer - Senior Associate © 2025 SCENE MONTHLY, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

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RESULTS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS REPRESENTING INJURY VICTIMS THROUGHOUT SOUTH TEXAS

VI CTO RIA SANTO S • RAÚL B. RO D RI GUEZ • DAN I EL H. KELLUM I I I OUR AREAS OF PRACTICE

• MOTOR VEHICLE COLLISIONS • BICYCLE AND PEDESTRIAN COLLISIONS • OILFIELD INJURIES

WORK INJURIES CONSTRUCTION INJURES WRONGFUL DEATH

2 1 0 - 8 9 9 - 0 3 0 0 • 9 2 2 S . A L A M O S T R E E T • SA N A N T O N I O , T X 78 2 0 5 PRINCIPAL OFFICE IN SAN ANTONIO

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35

2025

Best SA Lawyers

Brandt A. Bernstein

Lisa Duke

Jo Chris G. Lopez

Mariana Posadas-Trevino

Taryn O. Biasiolli

Laura O. Duran

Jodi Head Lopez

Jacqueline Menefee Queen

Mark E. Braswell

Ross Stewart Elliott

Muniza S. Malik

Grant Alexander Quimby

Jean S. Brown

Beauregard "Beau" Fiegel

Denise Martinez

Tara D. Richardson

Katherine Cabello-Flores

Patrick John Filyk

Karen L. Marvel

James Rickerson

Enriqueta A. Perez Carrasco

Pauline Mae Garza

Rashin Mazaheri

Derek S. Ritchie

Rebecca J. Carrillo

Jared M. Hall

James E. Monnig

Alexander S. Roig

Chanda L. Clepper

Per Ann Hardy

Aida Rojas Moore

Matt Sossi

R. Porter Corrigan II

Amanda Clepper Harrison

Chris H. Negem

Jodi Soyars

Charla Davies

Valerie A. Hedlund

Theresa D. Nettles

Ashley Christian Specia

Sarah C Davis

Alison Hicks

Richard Orsinger

Suzanne Leigh Coates Taylor

Kayla Dietrich

Stephen Howes

Amy E. Owen

Heather Clement Tessmer

Abel Aaron Dominguez

James Hunt

Carla Ozuna

Mark C. Thompson

Ashley Duffy

Linda Leeser

Amy Eubanks Perkins

Kristal Thomson

Bernstein & Bernstein, PLLC

Lisa Duke Law, PLLC

Biasiolli Law Firm

Langley & Banack, Inc

Roberson Duran Law, PLLC

Law Office of Mark E. Braswell, PC Jean Brown Law Firm

Jodi Head Lopez & Associates, PC

Rogers & Elliott, PLLC

The Law Office of Enriqueta A. Perez

The Law Offices of Rebecca J. Carrillo, PLLC Clepper Harrison & Duffy, PLLC Orsinger Law

Martinez & Rodriguez Attorneys At Law

Law Office of Patrick J. Filyk

Marvel Law Group

Garza & Associates, PLLC Soyars And Morgan

Countdown City Family Law

Alison Hicks & Associates

The Morales Firm, PC

Law Office of Derek Ritchie

The Law Offices of Abel A. Dominguez Clepper Harrison & Duffy, PLLC

Private Practice

Nettles, Donaho & Dockery, PC Orsinger Law

Jean Brown Law

Roberson Duran Law

Mediation and Consulting for Small Firms

Soyars & Morgan Law, PC Specia Law Firm

The Law Office of Suzanne Coates Taylor Tessmer Law Firm, PLLC

The Law Office of Mark Thompson Goranson Bain Ausley, PLLC

Family First /Family Law Since 1996

Mediation and Consulting for Attorneys

Selective Client Representation SCAN QR CODE

n Mediation since 2009 n In Office or Zoom

n Divorce

n Modification

n Enforcement

n Child Custody

n Artificial Intelligence (AI)

n Property Division

Drafting Assist Summaries

n On-demand Custom Clauses

n Child Support/Spousal Support

n Color Coded

n Visitation/Possession & Access

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Gina B. Gaedke

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from

DELI to DESTINY

By Ayesha M. Malik

Two Pakistani American Muslims from Houston – whose lives seemingly paralleled my own – were trailblazing on the silver screen and the local political scene, cutting through the darkness of a rising trend of anti-immigrant sentiment and Islamophobia and providing a refreshing glimmer of hope.

Brothers Saagar and Sakib Shaikh are a testament to the power of patience and perseverance.

O

n one of the first couple of nights of Ramadan this year, I broke my fast, finished up my night prayers, and per usual, found myself surfing the streams of content curated to me. My algorithm splashed Deli Boys’ Hulu debut across my home page. Like a moth to light, I pressed ‘Play’ without a moment’s hesitation and locked in for the next six hours until I had to fast all over again.

Deli Boys, a dark comedy starring actors Saagar Shaikh and Asif Ali, centers two Pakistani American trust fund bros who uncover the sordid secret behind their father’s wealth when their Lucky Aunty (portrayed by the inimitable Poorna Jagannathan), takes the lovably lost goofballs under her wing.

Though I was not born with a silver spoon, nor am I heir to a convenience store-slash-cocaine empire, this show reflected me as the daughter of Pakistani immigrants whose every move was grounded in making their children’s lives better.

Absolutely devouring the 30-minute episodes, I watched the whole thing twice within the same week just because I wanted more. Infinitely bingeable and brilliant, there was finally a show themed around South Asian-owned gas stations and delis that didn’t need to hit on Appu-from-the-Simpsons-level stereotypes to be hilarious. Deli Boys gives me Tan France fighting in a full three-piece suit instead. Being 1000% obsessed, I told all my friends to watch because I need a Season 2 like I need water.

One hunger-induced Wikipedia rabbit hole all about the creator and charismatic co-stars later, I discovered Saagar Shaikh had an older brother after whom he’d he loosely modeled his Deli Boys character Raj (with Saagar also playing older brother to the titular character in Disney’s Ms. Marvel). Then, it clicked that his brother, Sakib Shaikh, was a candidate for District 8 city councilmember.

The gears of my mind began to spin out of control.

Not only are Saagar and Sakib real-life brothers, but their family moved from Alief – the same little diverse immigrant enclave of Southwest Houston that I’m from – to San Antonio. My hands were suddenly compelled by the faintest of hope to message the Shaikh brothers for an interview.

A Ramadan miracle was born. Just a few weeks later, I would be sitting across from Saagar and Sakib in the incredible Gravelmouth Gallery in San Antonio’s D.R.E.A.M. Arts District for a Scene In SA exclusive.

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SHOCK TO THE SYSTEM Having just barely recovered from meeting Alief-raised Palestinian American comedian Mo Amer (who filmed part of his Netflix series Mo down the street from my parents’ house), here I was all over again—ecstatic about feeling seen in the mainstream and having stories that reflect the themes of my life. Sometimes, it feels like a simulation with how much talent comes out of that corner of Houston: Saagar, Mo, Tobe Nwigwe, Lizzo and Miss Cowboy Carter, Beyoncé Knowles herself. It’s hard not to feel pride.

Saagar—already on a first-name basis with one of my favorite comedians—expressed, “I was actually talking to Mo the other day and we were talking about [how] we’re so broke and so hungry [in Alief] that we feel this pressure of doing something so special. Pressure makes diamonds.”

Aside from representation in entertainment, I felt a distinct power in having someone who looked like a member of my extended family involved in local politics, particularly where San Antonio demographics don’t skew particularly South Asian.

Coming from Alief – a place where Hispanic, Black, Asian, and mixed people collectively make up 92% of the total population, the brothers recounted their jarring family move to the Alamo City.

“It was definitely a culture shock. In Houston, where we’re from, my neighbors were African, Filipino, from Thailand, Pakistan, India, Nepal, Bangladesh, you name it. Every house was a different nationality,” Sakib described. “When we came [to San Antonio], it was pretty much an equal split of, on the Northside, Caucasian and Hispanic.”

“We moved from Southwest Houston to Northwest San Antonio. Ten, eleven months after we moved here, 9/11 happened.” Saagar recalled sitting in the classroom early that morning and felt the eyes turn. “We were the only brown kids in our school and it was the worst time to be the only brown kids in a brand-new school. That was my introduction to San Antonio, really.”

Saagar elaborated, “For the first 14 years of my life, we only lived in Alief. We didn’t have a lot of money [growing up] to travel domestically. Any time we traveled, we would just go to Pakistan.

So, when we moved to San Antonio, I had thought [all of] America was just like Alief. I didn’t know there was a city two-and-a-half hours away that would be completely different.”

But of course, it’s been a long time since 2001 and Northwest San Antonio has seen a demographic shift, especially with the Wurzbach corridor of the Medical Center now boasting a significant Middle Eastern, North African, and Asian immigrant population and small businesses.

A District 8 resident for nearly 25 years, Sakib shared his excitement about the cultural designation of the area as the Silk Road Heritage District, in which he played a role during his time working in the District 8 Council office. “There’s grocery stores, restaurants, bakeries, clothing stores. [The designation] gives us guidelines on what we want future development on the street to look like.”

BROTHERLY LOVE Set in Philadelphia, Deli Boys is a tale of two brothers whose entire lifestyles are upended when they are forced to navigate the sudden loss of their guiding star, their father Baba Dar (played by the legendary Iqbal Theba). Mir Dar, portrayed by Asif Ali, is the brown-nosing younger brother who is – by most measures – “doing it right,” having gone to business school and following in his father’s footsteps and aspiring to be CEO of Dar Co. Older brother Raj Dar, played by Saagar, is the exact opposite—a bewaqoof (Urdu for “fool”) and a hedonistic degenerate fully kitted with a gold Allah chain. One walks with purpose and the latter aimlessly operates on pure vibes (and lots of drugs).

Saagar recounted numerous conversations with his Deli Boys co-star about reversing the roles: “I could have played Mir and [Asif Ali] could have played Raj. I can do both and he can do both; we’re trained as actors. While the show still would have been good, it would have been a different show.”

Truly, Saagar’s versatility can be seen in his role as Ms. Marvel's Aamir Khan—not to be confused with the Bollywood megastar by the same name—is a sharif (Urdu for “respectable”) Muslim momma’s boy substituting the blinged-out Allah chain for a modest long beard and providing moral guidance to his sister, Kamala Khaan. The characters were so different that I didn’t even recognize Saagar played both.

His inspo for the straight-laced Aamir and absolute jester Raj? Shockingly, still his own reallife older brother. Saagar set the record straight about his Ms. Marvel character: “[Aamir’s] also goofy.” Saagar channeled Sakib’s goofiness in his acting roles, relaying, “Outside of the house, [Sakib’s] the more polished brother of the three of us, but inside of the house, he’s the loudest one. That’s the version of him I’m most familiar with.”

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Commenting on how he made the characters of Aamir and Raj distinct, despite the common source material, Saagar exclaims, “I got raaange, man! I’ve been all these people before in my life.

You learn by watching people who are similar archetypes of those characters and you just try to emulate them the best way you can while throwing yourself into that mix. It’s a lot of mirror conversations and [figuring out], ‘What would my version of this person be?”

In the most endearing moment, Sakib beamed proudly about his brother’s craft. “He’s a legit trained actor. He talks about range, but that’s something he learned. He went to LA to pursue Hollywood the classic way. He was there 10 years before he got his first shot, so in that time, he was training. I didn’t understand [Saagar’s] work ethic until he pursued acting.”

But brothers are brothers. With two myself, I just know they had petty brother fights, so I asked them to share if they had any memorable ones that they laugh about now.

“Every day was a stupid brother fight,” Sakib responds.

Saagar jested, “And I don’t laugh about any of em!” before launching into how he still has an ongoing “You pushed me!”–“No, you slipped and fell!” argument with their youngest brother, even in adulthood.

But as Baba Dar reminds in Deli Boys, “When it comes to your brother, leave the tiff in the tiffin.”

FROM SLACKER TO ACTOR Ribbing his little brother, Sakib teased that Saagar was a bit of a kaamchor (Urdu for “slacker”). “The Saagar I knew pre-LA was the one that worked at the family gas station, deli, but the thing is that’s not what he wanted to do. Once he found his calling, I saw a totally different Saagar.”

“I’d say my brothers worked there—I just got in the way. It was a terrible idea to want me to be there.” Saagar fessed up, admitting, “I did what I could. I’m not the type to wake up early. I sleep really late; I wake up really late. My dad was like, ‘You need to open the store at 6 AM.’ I was like, ‘6 AM?! Can I do 8?’ He was like, ‘No, this is a business!’”

In the endless pursuit of pleasing the parentals, Saagar decided he would go to college at the insistence of his mother and with the assistance of older bro Sakib to help fill out applications. After spending three years at Northwest Vista, he joined some of his friends at UTSA.

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However, his passion for school never fully materialized, even though he eventually earned his Bachelor’s in Business Administration. “I was more interested in taking classes with my friends than taking classes at all.”

“I was a business major and I remember sitting in class one day [thinking], ‘This cannot be my life.’” After reflecting on the simpler times of grade school and brainstorming what he enjoyed doing, Saagar came up with theatre, but hesitated because he “didn’t have the audacity to dream of doing something different because it didn’t make money or it’s not respectable.”

That didn’t stop Saagar from typing the most meaningful Google search of his life: how to become an actor.

Thinking pragmatically, Saagar marched down to his academic advisor and asked for internship opportunities just in case acting didn’t pan out and he needed real work experience. Unbeknownst to him, he had an interview at a place with headshots hung on the wall a week later: a local talent management company, as kismet would have it. “I was like, that’s crazy! I just Googled last week ‘how to become an actor’.”

He got the internship and was signed on as talent, discussing how he cut his teeth by doing local commercial auditions, self-tapes, and driving to Austin or Dallas multiple times a week to audition. “I would never do that today.”

Saagar gave his parents two years’ advance notice that he’d set out to follow his theatrical dreams in the City of Angels after graduating from UTSA. “They thought [acting] was a phase. They were like, ‘We’ll see.

Dekhenge.’ A year went by and I was like, ‘One year.’” Three months before graduation, Saagar moved out of his parents’ home into an apartment with friends. His parents thought that was the end of it, but he had a stubborn determination. Putting everything he owned in four trash bags into the trunk of his 2007 Toyota Camry, he set off to Los Angeles.

“I lived at home my whole life. I felt like I was abandoning my family to go do this thing that I didn’t know was going to pan out.” But after experiencing dissatisfaction with the traditional route, Saagar was even more resolute.

“The moment I started acting, I knew that I’d rather be broke, with a roommate – maybe I’ll never own a house, maybe I’ll never have a nice car, but I’d rather be pursuing the things that I wanted to do.”

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In Islam, the concept of tawakkul is complete reliance on God and trust in the divine plan: the idea that what is written for you is already yours. For Saagar, his hard work and patient belief paid off. After a decade in LA and nearly giving up on the dream when COVID hit, his prayers were answered when he landed Ms. Marvel, and later, Deli Boys.

Though Saagar envisions starring in an indie romcom or writing, producing, or directing in his future, his primary focus is getting people to watch so Deli Boys can have a Season 2 (inshallah), so to everyone that reads this: boost those numbers and binge the whole thing on Hulu—Disney+ if you’re international.

SHAIKING THINGS UP Politician is also among paths less traveled for Pakistani Americans. As ubiquitous as political commentators, pundits, and talking heads yelling at each other on TV news networks are in Pakistan, the same cannot be said stateside.

For every Indian politician or government official (Kash Patel, Nimarata “Nikki” Haley, Vivek Ramaswamy, Ajit Pai, and Bobby Jindal, to name a few, whom Saagar cheekily labeled “losers”), there’s only a handful of Pakistanis and the name recognition among those few is incredibly low, with the exception of maybe former FTC chair Lina Khan.

Fresh off the heels of Zohran Mamdani’s historic campaign (and recent clinching of the Democratic mayoral primary in New York City), the closest we could get was an Indian-Ugandan Muslim. Saagar put his hand over his heart and proudly proclaimed Zohran as “One of us.”

Sakib earned his Bachelor’s in Political Science from UTSA and Masters’ in International Economics. Being a double-major in PoliSci and Anthropology myself before going to law school, my mom 1) had no clue what Anthony-pology was and 2) showed great concern about what the job prospects were for whatever the heck a political scientist was.

Sakib explained his parents similarly questioned, “‘What job can you get with this [degree]?’ . . . Especially coming from an immigrant background where you’re supposed to do the stable path,” which in Asian families is often the prestige professions: doctor, engineer, lawyer—in that order, with lawyer at the bottom tier. “The truth is: at the time, I didn’t know what I wanted to do [with a Political Science degree]. I just knew I had an interest in politics and policy.”

Saagar added, “[Sakib] was the teenager that – when he got over his NBA dreams – if you asked him what he wanted to do or be when he grew up, he was like, ‘I’m gonna be president one day.’”

On pursuing political office, Sakib said it all stemmed from his interest in community organizing.

After joining the board at his masjid, he endeavored to assume a public relations role, inviting political candidates, councilmembers, and state reps to the mosque to introduce them to the Muslim community in San Antonio and encourage the Muslim community to get involved locally.

“I hosted the first District 8 Candidate forum [at the Islamic community center] in 2017,” which was normally hosted by neighborhood associations and very sparsely attended. “We had close to 200 people at ours. It was the first time the mosque was considered a place where community affairs are discussed.”

Sakib poignantly discussed what politics is versus what it’s supposed to be. “We talk about politics and we think elections. We don’t think governance. We don’t think constituent services, which is what I did [working at the District 8 Council office]—making sure that city services are being delivered to the taxpayer in a timely and efficient manner. That’s what government is.”

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KING KHAN Now, I had to ask if Saagar and Sakib watched Bollywood movies growing up, especially since Saagar is an actor. To this, Saagar quickly reacted, “I know way more about Bollywood than I want to know. I know way more songs than I want to know, but I love it.”

The brothers began naming their Bollywood faves. Saagar started ratling off, “Shah Rukh Khan, Hrithik Roshan, Salman Khan, Aamir Khan…” before Saagar cut off his older bro.

“Salman Khan is not my idol.”

Sakib waxed a little nostalgic about the golden era of Khans of 1990s Bollywood, “You’re obligated to include him in that list…”

Shaking his head, Saagar quickly corrects the record. “You are NOT obligated to do that,” he laughed. “That’s a choice.” You see, dear reader, even if you know nothing about Bollywood, cancellations cross cultures—and Saagar’s gonna explain it all anyway.

In that moment, I found it heavily amusing that I’m witnessing two Pakistani brothers arguing about “Salman bhai”, a moniker given to the most controversial Khan since bhai means “brother” and Salman Khan has acted in a higher-thanaverage number of movies about brothers, including in the 1992 classic Hello Brother (which is a bootleg Ghost, except with a ghost Salman pestering his real-life older brother, Arbaaz). (Say brother one more time.)

Saagar lays out a timeline, solidifying his earlier statement that he knows way more about Bollywood than he wants. “Salman Khan fell off in 1999, maybe 2000. His best work was in 1994.

Andaaz Apna Apna with Aamir Khan and it was only as good as it was because both of them were in it.” He shrugs smirking, “Some could say, if it was Aamir Khan and Shah Rukh Khan [acting in it], it might’ve been a better movie.”

As for the top Khan: For Saagar, it’s clearly the King Khan, SRK. Sakib named Aamir Khan (yes, the one in a whole host of media, but not Ms. Marvel) as the GOAT. (And no, none of the aforementioned Khans are related.)

But Saagar is a well of appreciation for the three two Khans. While Aamir is the true artist—best writer, director, producer—but that Shah Rukh has that undeniable superstardom. I mean, he’s got uncountable fans clamoring outside his mansion every morning hoping to catch a glimpse of him doing his trademarked open-arm pose on the balcony.

“That stance is getting so popular on TikTok,” Sakib added.

“He’s got the gravitas, the bravado. He’s just got that Tom Cruise charm.”

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ABC DELI TO ABCDs As American-born Pakistanis, it was important to tease apart the idea of ABCDs, or “American Born Confused Desi,” referring to the “Americanization” of South Asians born in the United States. The term is certainly divisive and inescapably hints at a perceived lack of competency with your own culture. The other side of the term is to describe one’s rejection of their country of origin, culture, or language in favor of American attitudes and practices.

Sakib attributed trauma, with others imposing an identity crisis on him by calling him an ABCD. “To imply that someone’s confused is to imply that they don’t know who they are. I know who I am. I’m just different. I’m not an ABCD, I’m an ABD.” “It is what it is,” Saagar puts it. In the context of his character Raj, “Raj knows who he is. He wears it on his sleeve. He is far too rich to care what anyone thinks about him or how good or bad his Urdu is.

He’s not an ABCD, but he works at ABC Deli!”

And sure enough: never pay any mind to the log kya kahenge because people will always talk—you just have to keep doing you. ■

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Top SA Surgeons 2025 Scene In SA is pleased to honor those in San Antonio and Bexar County who were nominated as Top SA Surgeons across various specialities in our 6th annual survey of their peers.

Every effort was made to confirm the information presented here. Scene In SA is not responsible for any inaccuracies in the information provided to the magazine. Listings are alphabetical by practice area.

Disclaimer: The information presented in Top SA Surgeons is not medical/health advice, nor is it a physician/healthcare referral service. Scene In SA is an independent magazine published by Scene Monthly, LLC and has developed its own methodology for selecting practitioners for its Top SA Surgeons lists. All practitioners featured in Top SA Surgeons were selected by their peers in a survey conducted by Scene In SA. Paid advertising has no bearing on the determination of the list. Scene In SA strives to maintain a high degree of accuracy in collecting and providing the information presented herein, but makes no claim, promise, or guarantee about the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the information. Top SA Surgeons is a trademark used by Scene In SA and Scene Monthly, LLC, not a title or moniker conferred upon individual practitioners. The selection of a physician/healthcare practitioner is an important decision and should not be based solely on the information provided in this publication. No representation is made that the quality of services provided or performed by the practitioners listed will be better than that of other licensed practitioners, and past results do not guarantee future success. Scene In SA and Scene Monthly, LLC are not affiliated with any federal, state, administrative, or regulatory bodies or examining, licensing, and/or certifying entities (such as the American Board of Medical Specialties). These listings are merely descriptive of a practice area and do not certify or designate a physician/healthcare practitioner to be a specialist. Scene In SA does not endorse or otherwise recommend persons who may appear on this list. © 2025 SCENE MONTHLY, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

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Top SA Surgeons

ABDOMINAL SURGERY

James R. Neiner, MD, FACMS

Joe E. Johnston, MD

General Surgical Associates

Ana T. Sauceda, MD, FAAD

Jason Kempenich, MD

BARIATRIC SURGERY

Michael A. Sorace, MD

Patrick Nguyen, MD

Terri J. Nutt-Taylor, MD

Jorge L. Rincon, MD

Catherine M. Tisdall, MD

Russell Woodard, MD

Holly Volz, MD

GYNECOLOGICAL SURGERY

Grace Hsiung, MD

Haley Daigle, MD

UT Health Science Center

Richard Peterson, MD UT Health San Antonio

Kent Van Sickle, MD UT Health San Antonio

BREAST ONCOLOGY SURGERY Maryam Elmi, MD, MSc, FRCSC, FACS The Start Center for Cancer Care

Sonterra Dermatology

Alamo City Dermatology

Mohs Micrographic & Skin Surgery, PLLC The SkinMD Clinic

Dermatology San Antonio DeSilva Dermatology

EYE SURGERY

The Start Center for Cancer Care UT Health San Antonio UT Health San Antonio

Jorge L. Rincon MD, FACS, PA General Surgical Associates

Troy Robbin Hailparn, MD, FACOG

Cosmetic Gynecology Center of San Antonio

Sharron K. Acosta, MD

Kathryn S. Holloway, MD

Christina Bui, MD

Georgia McCann, MD

Jason D. Burns, MD

Randal D. Robinson, MD

John A. Campagna, MD

Belinda Yauger, MD

Christopher M. Debacker, MD Eyeplastx

HAND SURGERY

William J. Flynn, MD

Mark R. Bagg, MD

Rashid, Rice, Flynn & Reilly Eye Associates / I Care Affiliate

The Hand Center of San Antonio

Kristen Held, MD

Mickey S. Cho, MD

Stone Oak Ophthalmology

TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine

David E. Holck, MD, FACS, FASOPRSCS, ABFCS

Kunj K. Desai, MD

Eyeplastx / I Care Affiliate

The Hand Center of San Antonio

Joseph T. Kavanagh, MD, FACS

Stephen C. Drukker, MD

Eye Associates of South Texas

TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine

James Lehmann, MD

David P. Green, MD

Focal Point Vision / I Care Affiliate

The Hand Center of San Antonio

Josh Iltis, MD

Lauren E. Karbach, MD

Focal Point Vision

TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine

Lisa Marten, MD

Anthony Montanez, MD

South Texas Eye Institute

TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine

Kenneth Maverick, MD

David Person, MD

Focal Point Vision

The Hand & Upper Extremity Center of San Antonio

Calvin E. Mein, MD

Alexander S. Rowland, MD

Retina Consultants of Texas

TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine

Thushan DeSilva, MD

Arlo C. Terry, MD

Ramesh Srinivasan, MD

Ophthalmology Associates of San Antonio

Hand Center of San Antonio

Valerie Fisher-Shiu, MD

Allison P. Young, MD

Michaelia Sunderland, MD

John LeVasseur, MD

FACIAL PLASTIC & RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY

CARDIOTHORACIC SURGERY Masaki Funamoto, MD, PhD Methodist Heart and Lung Institute

COLON & RECTAL SURGERY Brano Djenic, MD, FACS, FASCRS Texas Oncology

Jackie Hopper, MD

University Health Science Center

Chris De Jesus, MD

UT Health Science San Antonio

Michael Anton Rodriguez Keller, MD Texas Oncology

William Cannon Lewis, MD, FACS, FASCRS Start Center Surgical Consultants

Alicia Logue, MD

UT Health San Antonio

Randal D. Robinson, MD UT Health San Antonio

Maria Martinez Ugarte, MD Gonzaba Medical Group

CRITICAL CARE SURGERY Ronald M. Stewart, MD, FACS UT Health San Antonio

DERMATOLOGICAL SURGERY DeSilva Dermatology

UT Health San Antonio

UT Health Science Center

Brittany Lenz, MD

Dermatology San Antonio

Byron L. Limmer, MD Limmer Dermatology

John Martin, MD Desilva Dermatology

Stephen Miller, MD

Dermatology San Antonio

Eye Associates of South Texas Eye Associates of South Texas / I Care Affiliate Eye Associates of South Texas Ophthalmology Associates of San Antonio

Stone Oak Ophthalmology Center

Christine B. Taylor, MD UT Health San Antonio

GENERAL SURGERY Brittany B. DeBerry, MD

The Start Center for Cancer Care

Travis L. Holloway, MD

Women’s Health Texas UT Health San Antonio UT Health San Antonio UT Health San Antonio

TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine

Christian A. Woodbury, MD TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine

HEAD AND NECK SURGERY Jennifer L. Bergeron, MD Ear Institute of Texas

Lance E. Jackson, MD Ear Institute of Texas

Jeffrey S. Rosenbloom, MD Alamo ENT Associates

General Surgical Associates

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2025

Top SA Surgeons

INTERVENTIONAL PAIN & MINIMALLY INVASIVE PROCEDURES Ellen Wantin Lin, MD

Elliott Clemence, MD

South Texas Center for Orthopedics

Gregory D. Gordon, MD

Premier Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Health

Advanced Spine & Pain Center

Matthew M. Dwyer, MD

NEPHROLOGICAL SURGERY

David L. Fox, MD

Carolina Arias-Cuello, MD South Texas Renal Care Group

NEUROLOGICAL SURGERY

Orthopedic Performance Institute Northeast Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine (Affiliated with Baptist Health System)

Frank J. Garcia, MD

TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine

Osama Ahmed, MD

Stephen Gates, MD

Brain & Spine Institute San Antonio

TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine

Michelle Cecchini, MD

Robert "Bob" Girling, MD

Texas Neuro Spine

Sports Medicine Associates of San Antonio

George M. Galvan, MD

Geoffrey P. Glebus, MD

Texas Neuro Spine

Sports Medicine Associates of San Antonio

Juanita Garces, MD

Adam Isaac Harris, MD

Ryan McDermott, MD

Robert U. Hartzler, MD

Texas Neuro Spine

UT Health Science Center

Daniel Monsivais, MD Texas Neuro Spine

Ryan Morton, MD Texas Neuro Spine

San Antonio Orthopaedic Specialists (Affiliated with South Texas Spine & Surgical Hospital) TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine

Dennis Rousseau Jr., MD

Surgical Oncology Associates of South Texas (Affiliated with Baptist Health System)

Bryan W. Kaiser, MD

Juan Padilla, MD Texas Neuro Spine

TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine

Joseph T. Kavanagh, MD, FACS

Sandip Savaliya, MD Texas Neuro Spine

Collin Son, MD

Neurosurgical Associates of San Antonio, PA

Arnold B. Vardiman, MD

Neurosurgical Associates of San Antonio, PA

Sebastian Villareal, MD Texas Neuro Spine

ONCOLOGY SURGERY

Eye Associates of South Texas

Frank Miller, MD

Texas Spine Care Center

Christopher Chaput, MD UT Health San Antonio

Jonathan S. Duncan, MD TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine

Shane C. Eizember, MD TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine

Paul T. Geibel, MD

South Texas Spinal Clinic, PA (Affiliated with South Texas Spine & Surgical Hospital)

Richard Hurley, MD

Brooke Army Medical Center

C. Stuart Pipkin III, MD

South Texas Spinal Clinic, PA (Affiliated with South Texas Spine & Surgical Hospital)

Kevin Richardson, DO

San Antonio Spine Center (Affiliated with South Texas Spine & Surgical Hospital)

James W. Simmons III, DO

South Texas Spinal Clinic, PA (Affiliated with South Texas Spine & Surgical Hospital)

Matthew C. Swann, MD TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine

Gerardo Zavala II, MD

Neurosurgery & Spine Consultants (Affiliated with South Texas Spine & Surgical Hospital)

ORTHOPAEDIC SPORTS MEDICINE SURGERY

TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine

Christopher Phelps, MD

Orthopaedic Performance Institute

Dustin B. Rinehart, MD TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine

Dennis Rousseau Jr., MD

Surgical Oncology Associates of South Texas (Affiliated with Baptist Health System)

Adam Bruggeman, MD

Emmanuel C. Nwelue, MD

Richard L. Ursone, MD

Morton Shawn Kahlenberg, MD

Brooke Army Medical Center

Antonio J. Webb, DO

Tru Ortho - Affiliated With South Texas Spine & Surgical Hospital

Carissia Calvo-Strube, MD

Surgical Oncology Associates of South Texas (Affiliated with Baptist Health System)

Husain Bharmal, MD

Amanda Marshall-Rodriguez, MD

Eric Raymond Ritchie, MD

UT Health San Antonio, Zeller Building

ORTHOPAEDIC SPINE SURGERY

Trinity Orthopedic Specialists TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine

Sergio Viroslav, MD

TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine

David E. Vizurraga, MD TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine

South Texas Spinal Clinic, PA (Affiliated with South Texas Spine & Surgical Hospital)

B. Christian Balldin, MD TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine

S. Josh Bell, MD

TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine

Amanda Ivy, MD

TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine

Jamie L. Lynch, MD Tru Ortho

Richard Nauert, MD

TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine

G. Lane Naugher, MD

TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine

ORTHOPAEDIC FOOT AND ANKLE SURGERY

Eloy Ochoa, MD

Marque Allen, DPM

Harrison Scofield, MD

David T. Hughes, DPM

Jeffrey B. Shroff, MD

Steven C. Albright, DDS

Kevin L. Kirk, DO

Casey D. Taber, MD

ORTHOPAEDIC SURGERY

Randall C. Marx, MD

Christopher Tucker, MD

UT Health San Antonio

Alexander R. Miller, MD

The Start Center for Cancer Care

ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY Steven C. Albright, DDS

C. Brandon Broome, MD

San Antonio Orthopaedic Specialists (Affiliated with South Texas Spine & Surgical Hospital)

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Sports Medicine Associates of San Antonio TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine

TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine

Justin Robbins, MD

TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine

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Celebrating Excellence in Orthopaedics San Antonio’s Best Orthopaedic Doctors Joint Replacement Frank J. Garcia, M.D. Bryan W. Kaiser, M.D, Emmanuel C. Nwelue Jr., M.D. Dustin B. Reinheart, M.D. Richard L. Ursone, M.D. Sergio Viroslav, M.D. David E. Vizurraga, M.D. Hand & Upper Extremity Mickey S. Cho, M.D. Stephen C. Drukker, M.D. Lauren E. Karbach, M.D. Anthony Montanez, M.D. Alexander S. Rowland, M.D. Michaelia Sunderland, M.D. Christian A. Woodbury, M.D.

Sports Medicine B. Christian Balldin, M.D. S. Josh Bell, M.D. Amanda M. Ivy, M.D. Richard Nauert, M.D. G. Lane Naugher, M.D. Eloy Ochoa JR., M.D. Harrison Scofield, M.D. Jeffrey B. Shroff, M.D. Casey D. Taber, M.D Christopher J. Tucker, M.D. Primary Care Sports Medicine David R. Espinoza, M.D.

Pain Management Patrick Ahern, M.D. Ephraim Brenman, D.O. RMSK Foot and Ankle Orthopaedics Charles E. Bryant, M.D. Kevin L. Kirk, D.O. Randall C. Marx, M.D. Justin Robbins, M.D. Chiropractic Care Nicholas Nira, D.C. Scott R. Seidel, D.C. Podiatry David T. Hughes. D.P.M Jessica F. Rutstein, D.P.M Cory J Moczygemba, D.P.M

Orthopaedic Spine Surgery Jonathan S. Duncan, M.D. Shane C. Eizember, M.D. Matthew C. Swann, M.D. Shoulder & Elbow Orthopaedics Stephen I. Gates, M.D. Robert U. Hartzler, M.D.

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2025

Top SA Surgeons

OTOLARYNGOLOGY SURGERY

PEDIATRIC SURGERY

Jennifer L. Bergeron, MD

Barry Cofer, MD

Marissa Early, MD

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The Dry Truth: South Texas Drought Threatens Water and Way of Life

By Berit Mason with research contributed by Kaylin Ledford

Aquifers are bodies of rock, sand, gravel, or sandstone, saturated with water, in and around them. They are not underground rivers or lakes.

The 2022 Water Use Survey shows about 55% of Texas water resources are groundwater (aquifers), 42% are rivers, streams, and lakes (surface water), while 4% is recycled.

With most of our water coming from an aquifer, it’s no wonder meteorologists cite the levels daily, and they have been on a wild ride. In May alone, the Edwards Aquifer Authority (EAA) was at Stage 4, falling to Stage 5, rising back to Stage 4 on May 29th, when rains came.

You can’t fool Mother Nature, but she sure can fool us.

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R

oland Ruiz is the General Manager of the EAA. He says despite spring showers, we’re years behind the needed rainfall. “We need a season of rain,” he says.

And rainfall patterns are going in the wrong direction.

“Over the past century, rainfall has increased in South-Central Texas, but the trend over the past 30 years is negative,” says State of Texas climatologist John Nielsen-Gammon, Director of the Southern Regional Climate Center. “Climate change can change rainfall amounts and patterns.”

EAA stages and San Antonio Water System (SAWS) stages are different. An EAA Stage 5, for example, signifies that aquifer water levels are below 625 ft., measuring the amount of water in the aquifer. SAWS stages are the rules restricting water use, like Stage 3 Restrictions, where households are allowed to water once a week in the early mornings or late at night.

SAWS Director of Communications Anne Hayden says water conservation runs contrary to a homeowner’s desire for a thick green lawn. “It used to be a typical house did not come with a sprinkler system; these days, almost every new house comes with a sprinkler system.” Hence, SAWS staffers go out, looking for anyone breaking water rules, according to the water conservation stage the city is in. “We go out to businesses and neighborhoods and look for infractions of the rules,” says Hayden. “We always have to witness conservation violations.” Violations have sent people to court, but now they appear as fines on your SAWS bill.

Even at EAA board meetings, “over-pumpers,” aquifer permit holders who pump from the aquifer, must answer to a stern 17-member EAA board when using more than their fair share.

Late spring and early summer, the U.S. Drought Monitor map showed the searing dark red of extreme drought in the U.S. Southwest, including Southwest Texas. Thus, this spring’s 2025 89th Texas legislature saw politicians scramble to pass water infrastructure bills. The Texas Senate approved legislation allocating $1 billion on new infrastructure and water pipes to buy cities’ water, also approving the transportation of water from rain-soaked counties to parched southwestern ones.

The Edwards Aquifer Authority (EAA) stage guide displays varying levels of waterflow, and their

Outside the suburbs’ hissing summer lawns is the far more serious world of Texas agriculture.

“Ranchers and land managers have conservation methods in play no matter the weather conditions,” says Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association’s Paige Holbrook.

“Without the land and natural resources, they lose their livelihood.” The May 2025 theme of their magazine, The Cattleman, was water.

Farm and ranch lands rely on water wells, but in drought, those wells may emit fewer gallons per minute.

Even the Trump administration strong-armed Mexico to make good on a 1944 US-Mexico water treaty.

“The recovery of Rio Grande Valley agriculture will take time after years of hardship,” says the president of the Texas Farm Bureau, Russell Boening. “The immediate deliveries of water, and the deliveries of water in the next six months, will be critical for farmers and ranchers.”

One method being touted to conserve water is regenerative farming.

“Texas is getting drier every year,” according to Trinity University’s Dr. Kelly Lyons, a PhD in ecology.

A close-up of Edwards Aquifer limestone (courtesy Edwards Aquifer Authority) Like us on Facebook at facebook.com/sceneinsa | Follow us on Instagram @sceneinsamag

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“Exotic annual grasses, annual ryegrass, [and] winter wheat are creating much drier soil conditions.” Lyons says regenerative farming keeps greater levels of vegetation cover, so less moisture evaporates from the soil.

“The best way to sustain soil water content is to keep the soil organic matter levels high.” Today’s nutritionists worry that poor soil quality means our food lacks proper vitamins and minerals.

The Texas ‘drought of record’ was 1949 to 1957. These were the 2nd, 3rd, and 8th driest years ever, “the most costly and one of the most devastating droughts in 600 years.” It taught Texas tough lessons.

In the 1990s, the state legislature created the EAA that spanned eight counties, from Uvalde up to Austin. The Comal and San Marcos springs are under its jurisdiction, part of our water supply.

“They’re critical because those two communities, New Braunfels and the city of San Marcos, have grown up and developed around those two spring systems,” says Edward’s GM Ruiz. Arriving to share in that water are the nine million new residents who have moved to Texas since 2000.

Scientists at the Texas Water Development Board have been busily figuring out 50-year plans for our regional and state water supply.

Texas man-made lakes are also reservoirs, holding pens for rainfall.

However, “Higher temperatures also lead to greater evaporation rates,” explain climatologists, proving true at Canyon Lake and Medina Lake, where white rocky shorelines have been evident, even though they are usually submerged.

“We’re growing by leaps and bounds,” says President of the Canyon Lake Civic Association, Gayle Green. “Which means more water is needed to accommodate homes with families and businesses.”

Canyon Lake evaporated so much that Canyon Lake Fire/EMS

Medina Lake in 1924

lost five homes to fire when the water pressure from their water hoses was too low. Boat ramps have been restricted.

Medina Lake has risen due to recent rains, struggling with a “dead pool” status. Some Lakehills residents like Rachel Mulherin say they’ve been deprived of the lakefront views they pay for. “It’s the lake property we pay taxes on … for a waterfront property. But that’s not what I have.”

Mulherin belongs to “Save Medina Lake.” She and fellow Lakehills property owner Henning Eilert-Olsen want the state to modernize area infrastructure, conserving water.

“There are some 300 canals,” says Henning. “But they are very old and very inefficient, and approximately 75% of the water is lost on its way from Medina Lake to farmers.”

Save Medina Lake proposes new wells to supply water to farms instead.

Texas’ wide and empty spaces have attracted the construction of data centers, servicing the increasing use of AI. SAWS reports fifty new such customers in Medina County, raising the ire of agriculture producers.

A dried-out Medina Lake

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Texas Blind Salamander (courtesy Edwards Aquifer Authority)

Water is a coolant in plant operations.

“What worries me… are seven new data centers planned around here, taking up water and space we don’t have,” says Mike Nickel, a South Texas Rancher residing in Castroville.

“We’re already under Stage Five drought restrictions, allowed 44% of the water we used to use. These developments might bring jobs, but without water, they won’t last—and they might push out the rest of us, who’ve been working the land for generations.”

Nickel has been forced to downsize his goat and cattle herd.

“The soil’s tired, and it hasn’t been the same since the canals from Medina Lake went dry,” says Nickel.

“I lived off 471 near what used to be Cliff, Texas, on the way to Medina Lake. The creeks and rivers always ran deep,” says Helen Marie Nickel, 92. She says in her 77 years there, San Geronimo Creek and Medina River were never dry.

“We swam in cold spring holes and never had to worry about water for the cattle. But about 15 years ago, everything started to change … I worry there won’t be enough water left for the generations to come.”

She’s right, as 2010 was Texas’ last most severe drought.

Texas is the second-largest state, so caring for the fate of tiny creatures living in our springs takes imagination.

But the Comal Springs Salamanders are among “indicator species.”

When these pale fish show distress, biologists know springs’

water levels have dropped, signaling poor water quality for us.

“These blind fish and [salamanders] are very important,” says Hayden, “because in the long term, they’re an indicator of the health of the aquifer.”

Our state environmental agency, the TCEQ, oversees the western region of the recharge zone, scrutinizing building and development. Today’s building materials can be laden with chemicals, sinking into our groundwater. Concrete slab foundations stop rain from adding to our groundwater.

“The more we can do to address what is happening on the surface of the recharge zone, the better off we’ll be in terms of drinking water supply,” she says.

Drought played a big role in January’s Los Angeles wildfires.

L.A. had had significant rainfall. But it stopped raining.

Senior Director for Aquifer Science Research & Modeling Paul Bertetti, says we face similar climate patterns.

“2021 was a year in which we received normal rainfall in the San Antonio region.”

Early 2022, the aquifer was “Stable,” falling to Stage 1. Then, no more rainfall came. 2022 ended as one of the driest years on record. That’s how fast our environment and climate changes.

The EAA “Critical Period Management Plan” ranges from “Stable” at 660 ft., to Stage 5, 625 ft. and below. ■

For the latest Edwards Aquifer levels, visit saws.org/your-water/aquifer-level-statistics Texas wild rice (courtesy Edwards Aquifer Authority)

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Preserving the Past Amid Modern Growth

By Berit Mason with research contributed by Kaylin Ledford

In what critics call a troubling new precedent, the Texas Pavilion, former home of the Institute of Texan Cultures (ITC), was approved for demolition by both the Texas Historical Commission (THC) and the City of San Antonio, despite the structure’s listing on the National Register of Historic Places and its official designation as a State Antiquities Landmark.

The action, which preservationists cite in new concerns, is part of Project Marvel, a downtown revitalization effort that UTSA and the City say will transform the area around the Tower of the Americas. Critics of the project argue this change will come at the expense of the city’s architectural and cultural heritage.

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“I

t is infuriating,” says Lewis Vetter, president of the Conservation Society of San Antonio, who filed a lawsuit in an attempt to prevent the demolition. He says the Society’s suit was defeated by the powerful legal argument of sovereign immunity.

“Under that, no matter how good your argument is or how meritorious your claim is, it will not be heard if the state chooses not to be sued,” Vetter explains. In a meeting this past April, the THC voted to grant UTSA a demolition permit for the ITC building, which was designed by architect Caudill Rowlett Scott. The permit request was made as the building’s future was still in litigation.

“Federal law has requirements that before a project can get federal funds, a federal agency must do an environmental review and determine if there will be an adverse effect on historic property,” says attorney Catherine E. Courtney, with the firm of Denton Navarro Rocha Bernal & Zech. According to Courtney, there has been no such federal review to date, and she contends that approval of the demolition may ultimately prove to be unlawful.

San Antonio historian Stephen Fox, a Fellow of the Anchorage Foundation of Texas, says the ITC is unique as a Brutalist building and a state pavilion from the 1968 Hemisfair. He says its concrete material and its placement at the east end of the Hemisfair site was intended to reflect a sense of gravitas and institutional dignity.

“It was meant to be a major public building, and to lose that is a tragedy,” says Fox. “It was meant to be monumental.” He believes that more public input is needed before any redevelopment takes place.

To date, it is unclear whether this will occur, although UTSA and the City say they intend to include the public in the project’s future development.

Architectural preservationists say that the city and UTSA are being disingenuous in their redevelopment campaign, using buzzwords like “revitalization” and “sustainability” while sidestepping legal and ethical obligations to historical stewardship.

While the ITC crumbles under modern development pressures, the San Antonio Missions, now part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site and protected by the National Park Service, stand resilient thanks to decades of foresight, advocacy, and archaeological leadership.

In the early 1980s, Anne A. Fox, a respected archaeologist and a direct descendant of Presidents John Adams and John Quincy Adams, conducted pivotal excavations at Mission Concepción and its surrounding grounds. A pioneering force in San Antonio’s cultural preservation, Fox uncovered buried histories beneath the city and championed practices that safeguarded its heritage for future generations.

Her work under the National Park Service and the Texas Antiquities Code preserved the architectural blueprint of the Missions, including the excavation of irrigation canals, buried roadways, and colonial structures beneath Main Plaza and Alamo Street. Fox also laid the foundation for the Missions’ 2015 inclusion as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and went on to receive the title of 1992 Archaeologist of the Year by the Texas Historical Commission. Even amid recent debates over federal defunding of the National Park Service, the Missions remain protected thanks in large part to the groundwork Fox helped establish. Her approach emphasized careful mitigation to protect historical layers beneath modern development—an ethos that could help guide current projects like Project Marvel. This designation, combined with federal and state protections, shields the Missions from the same fate as the ITC. Fox’s legacy proves that proactive preservation—not reactive litigation—offers the strongest defense against cultural erasure. Her discoveries revealed multiple American historical layers predating 1845 beneath downtown San Antonio—structures that would have been lost without archaeological foresight.

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Historians say that cultural memory is not just about nostalgia; it’s about identity, continuity, and understanding who we are as a people. When we tear down the physical embodiments of our shared past, we risk severing the ties that connect generations.

As the bulldozers line up to take down the ITC, many are left wondering: If a landmark with both state and federal protections can be demolished so easily, what does that mean for the rest of our city’s heritage? The San Antonio Missions survived because their protectors got there first. The ITC may not be so lucky. ■

The ITC, mid-demolition on May 17, 2025

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Reforming Education: From

Standardized Stress to

Emotional Health

By Jules Aldaz, with research contributed by Kaylin Ledford Texas public schools are at a breaking point—caught between state mandates, budget constraints, and a generation of students emotionally overwhelmed by a system built for compliance, not care.

From excessive standardized testing to underfunded support services, students are navigating a landscape more focused on performance metrics than personal growth. And while lawmakers debate cell phone bans and school vouchers, many educators and families agree: we’ve lost sight of what truly matters—mental well-being, emotional intelligence, and authentic support for diverse learners.

Fractured Reflections, by North East School of the Art artist Isabella Peña

The Emotional Intelligence Gap in Texas Schools Emotional intelligence—often called EI or SEL (Social Emotional Learning)—isn’t a buzzword. It’s a proven framework for helping children build self-awareness, empathy, resilience, and healthy communication skills. But in Texas, there’s no formal statewide requirement for SEL instruction. While some school districts are stepping up locally, inconsistent implementation and lack of funding mean thousands of students are missing the benefits. A 2022 survey

by Raise Your Hand Texas revealed that while 68% of educators believe emotional health should be a top priority, only 11% say their schools have the resources to 74

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deliver on that promise.

While Texas Education Code §22.904 now requires school staff to undergo mental health training, prevention is more effective than reaction—and the most vital mandate still missing is one that ensures students themselves are taught how to understand and regulate their emotions within the school day.

Why Mental Health Education Should Be Required for Students •

Teaching students how to understand, express, and regulate emotions can help prevent crises, self-harm, suicide, bullying, and

violence before they happen.

•

Kids are often unaware of what they’re feeling, why they feel it, or how to ask for help. Educating them early promotes self-awareness, help-seeking behavior, and empathy for others.

•

Students who understand emotional regulation perform better academically and socially. It reduces disruptions, aggression, and school avoidance caused by anxiety or trauma.

•

Teaching mental health topics helps normalize them, reducing shame and stigma and encouraging students to speak up early.

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Student Interview Summary

A Veteran Teacher’s Perspective

Emotional Intelligence & Learning Challenges (Madison Ledford, age 10, 5th grade)

To understand how these issues play out in real classrooms, I spoke with Jeff Campbell, an awardwinning, master-certified U.S. History teacher with over 39 years of teaching and coaching experience in Texas public schools. While he’s proud of his students and their consistently high STAAR pass rates, Campbell expressed concern about the nature of the tests themselves and the pressure placed on both educators and students.

What are some things you feel at school that are hard to explain to your teachers or classmates?

Sometimes I feel really nervous when I have to answer questions in class. I get scared that I might get it wrong and other kids will look at me like I’m dumb. It makes me feel sad, even if I usually get it right.

There’s a lot of pressure to be perfect, and that makes school harder.

“Sometimes the questions focus on very specific facts that many teachers just don’t have time to cover— especially in smaller or non-advanced classes. It can be frustrating, because the tests don’t always reflect the broader learning that’s happening in the classroom.”

Campbell shared that for students who are doing well in class but don’t perform well on standardized tests, the experience can be discouraging. “If a student has an A in my class but struggles with the STAAR, that doesn’t mean they haven’t learned. Some kids just aren’t great test takers—and that’s okay.”

He also emphasized that many students come to school carrying emotional burdens from home—and may not have the support systems they need outside the classroom. “We have kids dealing with a lot—family stress, financial pressure, even caring for siblings. Not every student has someone at home who knows how to help them process what they’re feeling. That’s why it’s so important that schools step up to provide that support.”

For Campbell, teaching has never been just about tests—it’s about connection, trust, and helping students become emotionally and intellectually confident.

A Student’s Voice: What Kids Really Need Madison Ledford, a 10-year-old fifth grader at Coker Elementary, knows this pressure firsthand.

“If I get something wrong, I feel like kids look at me like I’m dumb. That makes school harder.”

Madison dreams of a space where students can draw or write their feelings in private, sit on beanbags, and take breaks when overwhelmed. She’s not asking for anything extravagant—just a safe space to feel seen and understood.

“Sometimes I shut down because I feel too many feelings at once. I wish adults knew that I need time and space—not to be yelled at.”

Phones in Schools: Lifeline or Distraction?

While the Texas legislature considers a bill to ban student phone use during the school day, reactions remain mixed. Campbell uses a shoe organizer system to store phones in class—but recognizes that for some students, phones are more than distractions.

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Do you think kids are taught how to understand their feelings at school?

A little bit. Like, our counselor comes to talk to us once a month and teaches us about stuff like bullying or sharing. But I don’t think it happens enough for us to really remember how to handle big feelings.

If you could design a class to help kids deal with hard feelings, what would it be like?

I would make a class where kids could write or draw their feelings on the wall in private. There would be calming smells and soft stuff to help us feel better. Maybe a beanbag or a place to sit quietly. It would be a peaceful room just for calming down.

Have you ever had a big feeling that got you in trouble or made you shut down? What did you wish adults knew in that moment?

Yeah, sometimes I shut down because I feel too many feelings at once.

I wish adults knew that I need time and space and not to be yelled at.

I trust my mom the most. At school, I don’t always feel like I can trust teachers.

What makes you feel really safe and understood?

I feel safe when I’m with my friends. Teachers are okay, but I don’t trust all of them. Some of them don’t really understand what I’m going through. I trust people in my family more than anyone else.

If you could create a 'Kindness Club' at school, what would you want it to do?

It would help kids be nicer to each other and remind them to treat others how they want to be treated. I would want to ask people to join, but I’m kind of scared they’ll think I’m weird.

How do you feel when other kids can read things faster or easier than you?

It makes me feel like I’m behind. Like they’re better than me at reading. I don’t think they mean to make me feel bad, but I still feel kind of sad about it.

Would it be easier for you to have someone to talk to at school about your feelings regarding reading?

Not really. I don’t want to talk to a counselor I don’t know. I talk to my mom about it. I feel better when I can talk to someone who really knows me.

What would you change about how reading is taught at school?

I wish teachers would slow down and explain things better. They talk really fast and I can’t always understand. Everyone learns differently, and I think they should try different ways to help all kids.

Do you think kids understand what dyslexia is? How would you explain it to them?

Some kids know what it is, but not everyone. I would tell them it just means it’s harder for some kids to read or spell. It’s not a bad thing or a disability—we just learn in a different way. And that’s okay.

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SOLUTIONS & STRATEGIES

HOW TEXAS SCHOOLS CAN IMPROVE EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE Texas schools can improve emotional intelligence (EI) by shifting from a test-centric model to a whole-child approach—one that prioritizes emotional well-being alongside academic performance. These actionable steps offer a roadmap to make that shift possible:

1. Integrate Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) into the Curriculum •

• •

What it looks like: Regular class time dedicated to selfawareness, empathy, emotional regulation, and conflict resolution.

How to do it: Adopt evidence-based SEL programs like Second Step, RULER, or Leader in Me—already in use in some Texas districts.

Why it matters: SEL programs consistently improve grades, reduce behavioral issues, and boost long-term well-being.

2. Train Teachers in Emotional Intelligence • •

Provide professional development in trauma-informed practices, teacher self-awareness, and classroom emotional climates.

Emotionally intelligent educators model calm, compassion, and clarity—creating safer, more supportive classrooms.

3. Create Emotional Check-In Systems • •

Tools like “how are you feeling?” boards, mood meters, and daily journals normalize emotional expression.

Early check-ins help identify students in distress before crises develop.

“They’re a comfort. I get it—especially with everything going on in the world.”

Parents of students with anxiety echo this. For them, the ability to reach their child during a break—or in a crisis— matters more than classroom uniformity.

A growing number of advocates support middle-ground policies: phones put away during lessons, accessible during noninstructional times and emergencies.

The Tea Party Club: Student-Led Innovation At Lee High School, one student quietly transformed mental health support—by starting the Tea Party Club. She didn’t brand it as a mental health group to avoid stigma. Instead, she created a fun, inviting space where all students could decompress and connect.

“Some people came just for the food and drinks. Others came to meet friends, take a break from stress, or play bingo. It was a way to be in a positive environment.

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4. Prioritize Mental Health Support Services • •

Increase the number of counselors, social workers, and school psychologists—Texas currently ranks among the worst in student-to-counselor ratios.

Provide age-appropriate mental health education starting in middle school.

5. Shift from Punitive to Restorative Discipline • •

Replace zero-tolerance and suspensions with restorative circles, peer mediation, and reflection-based consequences.

These practices foster empathy, accountability, and personal growth.

6. Encourage Student Voice & Agency • •

Involve students in decision-making and goal setting.

Create safe spaces—like advisory groups or mental health clubs—where students can share feelings and stressors without fear of judgment.

7. Support Families & Caregivers • •

Offer family workshops on emotional development, stress management, and using EI tools at home.

Strong home-school partnerships amplify support and consistency.

8. Track Emotional Wellness Like Academic Data • •

Use anonymous surveys and self-assessments to measure belonging, stress levels, and emotional engagement.

This data can guide district decisions and highlight campuses needing additional support.

If you needed to talk or just wanted a reason to smile, you could come to the Tea Party Club.”

The result? A student-led movement that modeled the kind of connection schools too often overlook. Sometimes, all it takes is snacks, laughter, and a safe place to be yourself.

The Path Forward If we want better academic outcomes, we must begin with emotionally safe environments. Texas must move beyond test scores and daily attendance metrics and ask: Are we raising resilient, emotionally intelligent individuals—or just compliant ones?

Madison said it best: “It’s not a bad thing or a disability—we just learn in a different way. And that’s okay.”

That’s the message deserves to hear.

every

student

A Call for Compassionate Reform The path forward in Texas education isn’t about choosing sides—it’s about coming together. Students, teachers, parents, and policymakers all play a role in creating learning environments that nurture not only academic growth, but emotional well-being. Real change will take more than legislation; it requires compassion, understanding, and the willingness to truly listen.

We need to invite decision-makers into classrooms—not just to observe, but to connect. When leaders see the pressures teachers face and hear firsthand what students are carrying emotionally, they can begin making more mindful, humancentered decisions.

Because at the end of the day, education isn’t just about passing tests—it’s about preparing young people to thrive, with confidence, empathy, and resilience. And that’s a goal we can all stand behind. ■

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Top Doctor Profiles Marque Allen, DPM

Ellen Lin, MD

2025 Scene in SA Top Surgeon 2025 Best SA Doctor Sports Medicine Associates of San Antonio ( (210) 699-8326 6 (210) 561-7121 * allenmarque@gmail.com

2025 Outstanding Woman in Medicine 2025 Top Surgeon Advanced Spine & Pain Center ( (210) 690-0777 6 (210) 545-3671 * paindoctorellen@gmail.com Specialties: Pain Management

Specialties: Foot and Ankle Surgery

Dr. Marque Allen is fellowship-trained and double Board Certified in both Foot & Ankle Surgery. He has over 20 years experience in practice in San Antonio, TX and is one of the four founding partners of Sports Medicine Associates. Dr. Allen and his partners have been team physicians for the San Antonio Spurs for over 20 years. Dr. Allen is also an expert in the cutting-edge bunion procedure, 3D Lapiplasty, which has revolutionized the successful treatment of bunions. He is one of the top 20 surgeons in the US in the number of successful Lapiplasty procedures performed. Dr. Allen believes that every patient is an athlete because life is a competitive sport.

Dr. Ellen Lin is a graduate of the University of Texas Health Science Center of San Antonio. She is board certified in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation with a subspecialty certification in Pain Medicine and is the founder of Advanced Spine and Pain Center in San Antonio, Texas.

She was the first person in the history of the program to graduate from the Department of Anesthesiology Pain Management Fellowship with a background in PM&R.Dr. Lin is now a part of the team at Advanced Spine and Pain Center as the board-certified, fellowship-trained interventional pain management specialist and enjoys serving the San Antonio area providing the latest in medical treatment for acute and chronic pain conditions. Dr. Lin has been recognized by her peers for the past 17 years as a Top Doctor in San Antonio.

Troy Robbin Hailparn, MD, FACOG, FAACS

J. Antonio Lopez, MD

Nuevo Leon Monterrey Immigrated OBGYN Practitioner 2025 Best SA Doctor 2024 Top Family Doctor Lopez Family Practice ( (210) 534-8906 * antonio.md@lopezfamilypractice.com

2025 Outstanding Woman in Medicine 2025 Scene In SA Top Surgeon Cosmetic Gynecology Center of SA ( (210) 615-6646 6 (210) 615-6846 * drhailparn@cosmeticgyn.net : CosmeticGYN.net

Specialties: Family Medicine

Specialties: Gynecologic Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery

Dr. Hailparn offers sensitive and customized care with surgical and non-surgical options to address bladder, bowel and sexual function problems, as well as labia minora and majora reductions for comfort, function, and appearance concerns. Hormone replacement, incontinence, weight loss, and skin tightening are also provided. Her goal is to help women improve the quality of their lives and have bodies they can depend on. Check out her educational and entertaining TedTalk on YouTube.

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Dr. Lopez has been practicing medicine for over twenty years. After graduating from the Nuevo Leon Medical University in 1990, he practiced in Monterey, Mexico for a year. Dr. Lopez then immigrated to the US, and received a second degree from the University of Illinois in 1996. Though he enjoyed a successful career as a cardiologist and obgyn as well as a family practitioner in Illinois, Dr. Lopez moved his family to San Antonio in 2001 and is proud to be a part of the Texas community. Since opening the doors to Lopez Family Practice, Antonio has won several awards, including Outstanding Leadership of the Community in Doctoral Achievement (Chamber of Commerce 2008), America's Top Family Doctors (Consumer's Research Council of America, 2009), and Best Physicians as Chosen by Their Peers (Scene in SA, 2020-2025).

PA I D A D V E RT I S I N G S E C T I O N

As we celebrate our 30th anniversary, we honor our deep-rooted commitment to the health and well-being of our local community. Thank you for your trust and for allowing us to serve you and your loved ones all these years.

Together we look forward to building a healthier future for all of us.

Like us on Facebook at facebook.com/sceneinsa | Follow us on Instagram @sceneinsamag

SUMMER 2025 |

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Top Lawyer Profiles Zachary Aoki

Grant Gaines

2025 Best SA Lawyer Thurman & Phillips ( (210) 341-2020 6 (210) 344-6460 * zachary@thurmanphillips.com : thurmanphillips.com

2025 Best SA Lawyer Patel Gaines ( (210) 460-7787 * ggaines@patelgaines.com : patelgaines.com

Areas of Practice: Business, Real Estate, Litigation

Areas of Practice: Litigation, Collections, Community Associations Zack focuses his practice on Community Association law and general litigation matters in state and federal court. He represents his clients in state, federal, and alternative dispute forums and has significant trial and appellate experience.

Examples of industries he has represented include: transportation, oil and gas, real estate, insurance, media, accounting, construction, financial and lending institutions, and technology companies.

Grant Gaines is a founding partner of Patel Gaines and a driving force behind its rise as one of Texas’ top business law firms, representing over $16 billion in commercial property. Known for his command in the courtroom and clarity in legal strategy, Grant serves as lead counsel in all trials, where he crafts results through litigation, negotiation, and practical deal-making. He is a trusted advisor to businesses across industries, handling everything from high-stakes disputes to complex commercial leases, purchase agreements, and government negotiations. Grant has been recognized as a Texas Super Lawyer, Scene In SA Best Lawyer, National Outstanding Lawyer, and 40 Under 40 honoree by the Business Journal. His work has been featured in Forbes, Bloomberg Business, Texas Monthly, and Texas Lawyer, reflecting a career built on legal excellence, entrepreneurial leadership, and unwavering client advocacy.

Bobby Barrera

Gerry Goldstein

Areas of Practice: Criminal Defense, Murder, DUI/ DWI, Family Violence, State & Federal

Areas of Practice: Criminal Law & Appeals

2025 Best SA Lawyer 2024 Top Criminal Defense Lawyer Goldstein & Orr, PLLC ( (210) 226-1463 6 (210) 226-8367 * gerry@goldsteinorr.law : goldsteinhilley.com

2025 Best SA Lawyer 2024 Top Criminal Lawyer The Law Office of Bobby Barrera, PC ( (210) 227-7372 6 (210) 224-5890 * bobbybarreralaw@gmail.com : bobbybarrera.com

Bobby has been practicing criminal law for over 40 years. He has been recognized by his fellow lawyers as one of San Antonio’s “Top Ten Criminal Lawyers” and as one of San Antonio’s “Top Five DWI Lawyers.” He has been on Scene In SA’s “Best Lawyers” list for the last 20 years. He is the Past President of the San Antonio Bar Association and Director of the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association. He is a frequent lecturer and course director for the T.C.D.L.A and State Bar of Texas CLE’s. Bobby has been included in the “ Texas Super Lawyers” listing in criminal law for the last 10 years.

Gerry Goldstein is a past President of the National Association of Lawyers and the Texas Lawyers Association. Goldstein is listed in The Best Lawyers in America, was named a Texas Lawyer Legal Legend by the State Bar, and was named to the Texas Lawyers Hall of Fame. He was named to the Top 100 list in Super Lawyers and recognized as the outstanding attorney by the State Bar of Texas. He is a Fellow in the American College of Trial Lawyers and the International Academy of Trial Lawyers, a Fellow in the American Board of Lawyers, and a prestigious Robert C. Heeney Memorial Award recipient.

Alexander Begum

John S. Gilmore, III

Areas of Practice: Personal Injury

Areas of Practice: Criminal Law & Appeals

2025 Best SA Lawyer 2024 Top Personal Injury Lawyer Villarreal & Begum ( (210) 800-0000 6 (210) 233-8278 * abegum@texaslegalgroup.com : texaslawguns.com

2025 Best SA Lawyer 2024 Top Criminal Defense Lawyer Goldstein & Orr, PLLC ( (210) 226-1463 6 (210) 226-8367 * johnstuartgilmore@gmail.com : goldsteinhilley.com

Alexander Begum is a founding shareholder of the Villarreal & Begum Law Firm, with offices in San Antonio, Laredo, and McAllen. Mr. Begum earned a double major in Marketing and Finance at Trinity University. He then attended Harvard University where he studied finance and legal writing. Alex acquired a Doctorate of Jurisprudence and a Masters of Business Administration with a concentration in Finance from Texas Tech. Alexander Begum has devoted his career to helping those injured by negligent drivers, 18-wheelers, and bad corporate actors. Scene In SA has named Alex Begum Best Injury Lawyer for years 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025.

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John Gilmore is the Senior Associate at Goldstein & Orr. His practice focuses on state and federal criminal litigation, appeals, and asset forfeitures. He takes pride in discretely resolving allegations in high stakes matters, including the return of over one million dollars in assets for clients. John has been selected as a Rising Star Lawyer each year in practice and was recently recognized as one of the Top 20 Criminal Defense Lawyers in San Antonio.

PA I D A D V E RT I S I N G S E C T I O N

Francisco Guerra, IV

Maria T. LoRusso

Areas of Practice: Personal Injury, Mass Torts, Product Liability, Commercial Litigation

Areas of Practice: Business & Corporate Law, Finance Law

2025 Best SA Lawyer 2024 Top PI Lawyer Guerra LLP ( (210) 447-0500 6 (210) 735-2235 : guerrallp.com

Francisco “Frank” Guerra, IV is a capital partner at Guerra, LLP, has over 25 years of experience as an attorney, and is Board Certified in Personal Injury Trial Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. During his career, Frank has litigated, tried and arbitrated cases all over the country.

Guerra LLP specializes in Civil Litigation, Commercial Litigation, Personal Injury, Product Liability, Class Actions, Environmental Torts, and Mass Tort cases.

2025 Outstanding Woman in Law 2025 Best SA Lawyer Maria T. LoRusso, P.C. ( (210) 404-9200 * maria@lorussobusinesslaw.com : lorussobusinesslaw.com

At the intersection of law & finance lies my role as a Business/Corporate Law Attorney.

This niche position allows me to develop economic/financial strategies to successfully integrate and coordinate the management of business affairs, analyze contracts and leases, manage litigation, and assist CEOs, CFOs, tax professionals, banking/investment advisors and insurance representatives into the legal and financial infrastructure of a business. Law & finance become the compass and road map to navigate a successful business course.

Kathlyn Hufstetler

Desi I. Martinez

2025 Best SA Lawyer Patel Gaines ( (210) 460-7787 * khufstetler@patelgaines.com : patelgaines.com

2025 Best SA Lawyer 2024 Top PI Lawyer Martinez & Associates, PLLC ( (210) 337-1111 6 (210) 359-8255 * desi.martinez@martinez-law.com : martinez-law.com

Areas of Practice: Property Tax

Kathlyn Hufstetler is a partner at Patel Gaines and head of the firm’s Property Tax Division, where she leads one of the most successful practices of its kind in Texas. Under her leadership, the division has grown rapidly, expanding its representation from $5 billion to over $11 billion in commercial property value. Kathlyn is known for securing major reductions in high-stakes litigation, including over $22 million in taxable value reductions in landmark cases such as Houston House v. HCAD and Redford Owner v. HCAD. She brings strategic precision and relentless advocacy to every case, earning her recognition as a Scene In SA Best Lawyer and a “10 Extraordinary Women to Watch” honoree by EliteX. As a member of the 2024–25 TAPTP Bridge Committee, Kathlyn continues to shape the future of property tax law in Texas with results that speak for themselves.

Areas of Practice: Personal Injury

Martinez & Associates has been recognized by TopVerdicts.com and VerdictSearch for obtaining several noteworthy verdicts and settlements for 7 out of the previous 10 years.

Desi Martinez credits this recognition to Martinez & Associates’ ability to capably litigate a case through to trial. Known to have precipitously walked out of mediations and into trial, the years have tempered Mr. Martinez’ gallop but afforded him the opportunity to impress upon the attorneys in his firm with this belief.

Beto Lara

Karen L. Marvel

2025 Best SA Lawyer 2024 Top PI Lawyer Denali Law PLLC ( (210) 934-7000 * betolara@lawdenali.com : lawdenali.com

2025 Best SA Lawyer 2025 Outstanding Woman in Law 2025 Top Family Lawyer Marvel Law Group, PLLC ( (210) 446-4561 6 (210) 774-4610 * karen@marvellaw.com : marvellaw.com

Areas of Practice: Corporate Law, Civil Litigation, Commercial Litigation

Beto Lara has over seventeen years’ experience in the legal field and has been recognized for his leadership and tenacity. Prior to establishing Denali Law, Mr. Lara counseled high profile clients on domestic and international foreign legal matters. He holds a Master’s in Tax Law and a L.L.M. in American legal studies from St. Mary’s School of Law. Mr. Lara is also affiliated with the State Bar of Texas and has been certified by the Supreme Court of Texas as a Foreign Legal Consultant. He is a passionate advocate for UTSA football and resides in San Antonio with his family.

Areas of Practice: Family Law, Child Support Collection Karen is a board-certified Family Law Specialist with over 35 years experience. Her cases at the Texas Supreme Court changed the law on child support collection and interest. As the mother of a son with special needs, she knows your struggles and wants to help you resolve your case for the best interests of your children. She is respected for her advocacy skills and her depth of legal knowledge.

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Top Lawyer Profiles Harold McCall

Ashley Morgan

2025 Best SA Lawyer 2024 Top Personal Injury Lawyer Wayne Wright, LLP ( (210) 888-8888 6 (210) 734-9965 * hmccall@waynewright.com : waynewright.com

2025 Best SA Lawyer Soyars & Morgan Law ( (210) 568-9400 6 (210) 858-5181 * ashley@soyarsmorganlaw.com : soyarsmorganlaw.com

Areas of Practice: DWI & Criminal Defense

Areas of Practice: Personal Injury

Harold McCall handles complex trucking accident cases resulting in serious injury or death, as well as dangerous product and drug cases. Mr. McCall is licensed to practice law in 6 states, including Texas; is a life member of the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum; is listed as a Best Attorney in San Antonio by Scene In SA magazine; and is past President of the San Antonio Trial Lawyers Association.

Ashley Morgan is a highly educated and highly experienced trial attorney. She has hundreds of trials under her belt and her ability to communicate clearly and effectively with jurors is second to none. Ashley has the unique ability to empathize with clients – a skill often overlooked by other attorneys. She is a fierce advocate and will vigorously defend you. As a former prosecutor, she is able to anticipate strategies and tactics you will face, and this insight into preparation will serve you well. It also means she has the experience needed to negotiate with the State.

Kaylie M. Morgan

Gavin McInnis

2025 Best SA Lawyer 2024 Top Criminal Defense Lawyer O’Hanlon, Demerath, & Castillo ( (210) 310-3030 6 (512) 494-9919 * kmorgan@808west.com : 808west.com

2025 Best SA Lawyer Wyatt Law Firm, Ltd ( (210) 340-5550 6 (210) 340-5581 * gmcinnis@wyattlawfirm.com : wyattlawfirm.com

Areas of Practice: Plaintiff Personal Injury

Gavin, who has been nicknamed “the Law Library” by some of his peers, concentrates his practice in the representation of plaintiffs in serious personal injury, trucking accidents, wrongful death, carbon monoxide exposure, and oil field injury cases. Born and raised in Latin America until the age of thirteen, Gavin speaks English and Spanish. Honors and recognitions include: Super Lawyers, Scene In SA’s Best Lawyers, Top 50 Verdicts (Texas); Texas Bar Foundation Fellow; Order of the Barristers.

Areas of Practice: Criminal Defense, Criminal Defense: Appellate, Criminal Defense: Juvenile Kaylie M. Morgan is a criminal defense attorney at O’Hanlon, Demerath & Castillo in San Antonio, Texas. Her current practice focuses solely on juvenile and adult criminal defense, representing clients charged with misdemeanors and felony offenses. Kaylie also handles state and federal appeals and post-conviction writs of habeas corpus cases. Kaylie has been selected as a Rising Star Lawyer and an Outstanding Woman in Law in San Antonio, Texas.

Aida Rojas Moore

Cynthia Orr

2025 Best SA Lawyer Rojas Law Firm ( (210) 299-4600 6 (210) 299-4600 * aidarojas@aidarojaslaw.com : aidarojaslaw.com

2025 Outstanding Women in Law 2025 Best SA Lawyer Goldstein & Orr, PLLC ( (210) 226-1463 6 (210) 226-8367 * whitecollarlaw@gmail.com : goldsteinhilley.com

Areas of Practice: Family Law

Areas of Practice: Criminal Law & Appeals

Aida Rojas Moore has over 20 years of qualified experience in dealing with family law cases such as divorce, custody, domestic violence, CPS, child support, and adoptions.

Throughout the course of representing clients, Ms. Rojas has gained the reputation of a lawyer who will always fight for justice and will protect the legal rights of Texas families and children.

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Cynthia Eva Hujar Orr is the past Chair of the ABA Criminal Justice Section and in its House of Delegates, on the Texas Board of Law Examiners, is past President of the NACDL and TCDLA. She founded the San Antonio Lawyers Association and the Texas Innocence Network. She is listed in the Best Lawyers in America, is a Fellow in the American College of Trial Lawyers and is a Texas’ Top 100 Trial Lawyer. She is in the San Antonio Women’s Hall of Fame, she was TCDLA 2015 Pro Bono Lawyer of the year, clerked for federal Judge Emilio Garza and is Board Certified in Criminal Law and Appeals. She is listed in the Best Lawyers in America and is AV Rated by Martindale Hubble.

PA I D A D V E RT I S I N G S E C T I O N

Richard Orsinger

Raul B. Rodriguez

Areas of Practice: Family Law

Areas of Practice: Personal Injury

2025 Best SA Lawyers 2025 Top Family Lawyers Orsinger Law ( (210) 225-5567 6 (210) 267-7777 * richard@orsinger.com : ondafamilylaw.com

2025 Best SA Lawyer 2024 Top PI Lawyer Raul B. Rodriguez Law, P.C. ( (210) 899-0300 6 (210) 899-0500 * raul@rodriguezlawtx.com : raulbrodriguez.com

Richard Orsinger is well regarded as one of Texas’ top family law and appellate lawyers. He offers clients unparalleled experience gained over the course of an esteemed 48-year career.

In that time, his peers have repeatedly recognized him for his legal acumen, dedication to hard work and to the integrity of his profession. The list of awards bestowed upon him from a variety of legal organizations and publications is impressive. Richard has been named to The Best Lawyers in America in Family Law listing each year since 1987 and in Appellate Law since 2007.

Raul is a proud San Antonian. His firm focuses on helping injured San Antonians and Texans. He handles all types of personal injury matters, from car wrecks to wrongful death cases. Raul has worked for and tried cases for both insurance companies and injured victims. This experience adds a unique insight to the entire personal injury process. No matter how hard the fight, Raul and his firm won’t back down!

Rahul B. Patel

Alexander S. Roig

Areas of Practice: Business, Franchise, Hospitality, Property Tax

Areas of Practice: Probate Law

2025 Best SA Lawyer Alexander S. Roig, PLLC ( (210) 377-2529 Ext. 201 6 (210) 340-1346 * alexander@roiglaw.com : roiglaw.com

2025 Best SA Lawyer Patel Gaines ( (210) 460-7787 * rpatel@patelgaines.com : patelgaines.com

Rahul B. Patel is the founding and managing partner of Patel Gaines, a Texas-based law firm representing over $16 billion in commercial property. He is a respected authority in property tax litigation, commercial real estate, and franchise law, with major victories including a $9 million tax reduction and a full dismissal in a high-stakes ADA lawsuit.

Clients such as the Federal Reserve Bank and Magnolia rely on his legal strategy and business insight. Rahul serves as Chairman of Alamo Angels, Vice Chairman of the F45 Franchisee Advisory Committee for North America, and sits on the Board of Directors for Gleantap. His leadership has earned honors including Super Lawyer, Scene In SA Best Lawyer, National Outstanding Lawyer, and South Texas Power Player. He was also named Best Mentor by Texas Lawyer for his work in guiding the next generation of attorneys. His insights have been featured in publications such as Forbes, Texas Monthly, Texas Lawyer, Bloomberg Business, and USA Today.

Alex graduated from the University of Texas at Austin and Thomas M. Cooley Law School, in Lansing, MI. He has been a licensed attorney in the State of Texas since 2002 and admitted to the Federal District Court of the Western District. His experience includes estate planning and litigation on trusts, guardianships, and estate disputes. Mr. Roig also has extensive experience representing military clients in both disability claims and estate planning matters.

Hella V. Scheuerman

Derek S. Ritchie

2025 Best SA Lawyer 2025 Outstanding Woman in Law Scheuerman Law Firm, PLLC ( (210) 741-2233 6 (210) 735-2235 * hella@sch-lawfirm.com : sch-lawfirm.com

2025 Best SA Lawyer The Law Office of Derek S. Ritchie, PLLC ( (210) 775-2000 6 (210) 592-4370 * derek@derekritchielaw.com : derekritchie.com Areas of Practice: Criminal Defense, Family Law

Derek is the founder and managing attorney of the Law Office of Derek S. Ritchie. He earned his law degree in London, then made his way to the United States and earned his LLM from the University of Texas School of Law. He handles DWI's, intoxication manslaughter, murders, and sex crimes, as well as all areas of Family Law. He is available to his clients every day, including weekends.

Areas of Practice: Personal Injury, Probate, Trust and Estate Litigation Hella is originally from Managua, Nicaragua. She immigrated to the United States with her family at a young age as a result of the political and economic climate in war-torn Nicaragua. Spanish is her first language and she continues to speak Spanish fluently. In her 27 years of practice, she has obtained significant trial experience as lead attorney in more than 50 jury trials to verdict. Hella is Board Certified in Personal Injury Trial Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and frequently counsels and represents clients in both State and Federal Courts. She is licensed in all Texas State Courts, as well as the Western, Northern, and Southern Districts of Texas of the United States District Courts.

PA I D A D V E RT I S I N G S E C T I O N

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Top Lawyer Profiles Jodi Soyars

Ronnie Lee Mark Wilkins

2025 Best SA Lawyer Soyars & Morgan Law ( (210) 568-9400 6 (210) 858-5181 * jodi@soyarsmorganlaw.com : soyarsmorganlaw.com

2025 Best SA Lawyer 2024 Top Criminal Defense Lawyer Goldstein & Orr, PLLC ( (210) 226-1463 6 (210) 226-8367 * ronnie@goldsteinorr.law : goldsteinhilley.com

Areas of Practice: Criminal Defense, Family Law

Jodi Soyars has gained a reputation for being a strong trial attorney who is not afraid to vigorously defend her clients’ rights. Over the past 15+ years, she has represented defendants accused of misdemeanors and felonies throughout Central Texas. She graduated with honors from law school and was a member of the prestigious Houston Law Review.

She has been admitted to practice in the U.S. Western District Courts (federal court). Her practice emphasizes personal attention to each client’s case and prompt communication with her clients. Jodi attributes her success to her pretrial case preparation and her “think outside the box” trial approach.

Areas of Practice: Criminal Law & Criminal Appeals Ronnie Wilkins is an associate attorney at Goldstein & Orr in San Antonio, Texas. His practice focuses on state and federal criminal defense. Ronnie has experience in handling a variety of adult and juvenile cases. In 2014, Ronnie was selected as a Rising Star Lawyer in San Antonio, Texas.

Michael B. Thurman

Wayne Wright

2025 Best SA Lawyer Thurman & Phillips, PC ( (210) 341-2020 6 (210) 344-6460 * law@thurman-phillips.com : thurmanphillips.com

2025 Best SA Lawyer 2024 Top Personal Injury Lawyer Wayne Wright, LLP ( (210) 888-8888 6 (210) 734-9965 * wwright@waynewright.com : waynewright.com

Areas of Practice: Property Owners Associations

Michael B. Thurman is Managing Shareholder of Thurman & Phillips, P.C. Michael is Board Certified by the State Bar of Texas Board of Legal Specialization in the areas of Real Estate Law: Residential and Property Owners Association Law. Michael’s primary practice is Property Owners Association Law with a focus on representing associations and developers. Michael is AV-rated, which is the highest rating bestowed by Martindale-Hubbell on attorneys considered to have “Very High to Preeminent Legal Ability” with the highest Standard of ethical and professional conduct.

Areas of Practice: Plaintiff Personal Injury

Mr. Wright received his law degree from the University of Northern Illinois College of Law, with the honors of Magna Cum Laude, First in Class. Mr. Wright is licensed to practice law in nine states, including Texas; a life member of the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum; ranked as a Top 100 Lawyer by the National Trial Lawyers; and has been listed as a Best Attorney in San Antonio by Scene In SA magazine since 2009.

Javier Villarreal

Wyatt Wright

Areas of Practice: Personal Injury

Areas of Practice: Plaintiff Personal Injury

2025 Best SA Lawyer 2024 Top Personal Injury Lawyer Villareal & Begum ( (210) 800-0000 6 (210) 233-8278 * texasattorney@hotmail.com : texaslawguns.com

2025 Best SA Lawyer 2024 Top Personal Injury Lawyer Wayne Wright, LLP ( (210) 888-8888 6 (210) 734-9965 * wyatt@waynewright.com : waynewright.com

Javier Villarreal received his bachelor’s degree from Tulane University in New Orleans, LA in 1995. He then continued his education at Tulane School of Law, where he obtained his Juris Doctorate in 1998. Upon graduation, he served as a Briefing Attorney for the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit. In 2001, Javier opened his private practice in Brownsville, Texas and developed his plaintiff personal injury practice. He is licensed to practice law in both the State of Texas and the State of Arizona.

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Wyatt Wright handles complex trucking accident cases resulting in serious injury or death, as well as dangerous product and drug cases. Mr. Wright is licensed to practice law in 15 states, including Texas; is a life member of the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum; is ranked as a Top 100 Lawyer by the National Trial Lawyers; and has been listed as a Best Attorney in San Antonio by Scene In SA Magazine since 2009.

PA I D A D V E RT I S I N G S E C T I O N

You should be in here!

Paula Wyatt

2025 Best SA Lawyer Wyatt Law Firm ( (210) 340-5550 6 (210) 340-5581 * pwyatt@wyattlawfirm.com : wyattlawfirm.com

Areas of Practice: Plaintiff Personal Injury

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT

GABRIELLA MARTINEZ Paula knows the profound human impact of personal injuries or death. As such, she takes the time to not just get to know her clients, but to understand them. Paula represents individuals and families who have suffered losses from trucking accidents, carbon monoxide exposure, and oilfield and industrial accidents, just to name a few. Rated AV-Preeminent by Martindale-Hubbell, Paula has been recognized by multiple organizations, including Super Lawyers and the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum.

AT SCENE IN SA

CELL (210) 870-4202 ADVERTISING@SCENEINSA.COM

PA I D A D V E RT I S I N G S E C T I O N

Online Events: FashionABLE | Pride River Theater Celebration | March Madness Music Festival | Texas Fashion Week: SPRING | Suitcase: SS Fashion XP | A Night at Bohanan's | Boerne's Newest Addition | Sex and the City Fashion Show

Check out our colorful coverage of San Antonio's best events!

Visit sceneinsa.com for more content, including online exclusives.

SUMMER 2025 |

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Local Business SCENE IN SA MAGAZINE CAN BE FOUND FOR SALE AT THESE LOCATIONS CVS

DENTAL

OPHTHALMOLOGY

Zam Dental 1202 W Bitters Rd Building I, Suite 1207 San Antonio, TX 78216 (210) 494-2206 zamdental.com

I Care 1779 NE Loop 410 Access Rd Suite 100 San Antonio, TX 78217 (830) 229-1779 icare-sa.org Jay M. Rubin, MD Eye Clinics of South Texas, PA 999 E Basse Rd., Ste. 128-B San Antonio, TX 78209 Phone: (210) 826-2012 Fax: (210) 829-8349 jrubinmd@eyeclinicsofsouthtexas.com eyeclinicsofsouthtexas.com

300 E COMMERCE ST

78205

919 WURZBACH PKWY

78216

4600 BROADWAY ST

78209

9050 FM 1560 N

78254

ENT Ear Institute of Texas 18518 Hardy Oak, Suite 300 San Antonio, TX 78258 (210) 696-HEAR eioftx.com

4730 FREDRICKSBURG RD

78229

22202 BULVERDE RD

78261

23530 WILDERNESS OAK

78258

120 E SONTERRA BLVD

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3027 NACOGDOCHES RD

78217

6470 N NEW BRAUNFELS AVE

78209

211 LOSOYA ST

78205

4805 MEDICAL DR

78229

19202 BLANCO RD

78258

20203 STONE OAK PKWY

78258

Target 746 NW LOOP 410

78216

Walgreens 502 NEW VALLEY HI

78227

20226 STONE OAK PKWY

78258

1902 N LOOP 1604 E

78232

300 E HOUSTON ST

78205

26482 N HWY 281

78258

901 BITTERS RD

78216

7802 WURZBACH RD

78229

7423 BROADWAY ST

78209

7103 MARBACH RD

78227

3326 FREDERICKSBURG RD

78201

14882 BLANCO RD

78216

Walmart

86

Directory

1515 N LOOP 1604 E

78232

5025 NW LOOP 410

78229

1430 AUSTIN HWY

78209

4331 THOUSAND OAKS DR

78217

8500 JONES MALTSBERGER RD

78216

6703 W LOOP 1604 N

78254

2100 SE LOOP 410

78220

| SUMMER 2025

FAMILY MEDICINE

Ophthalmology Associates (6 locations) (210) 223-5561 ophthalmologysa.com

Lopez Family Practice 601 Labor St San Antonio, TX 78210 (210) 534-8906 lopezfamilypractice.com

PLASTIC SURGERY

FOOT & ANKLE SURGERY Marque Allen, DPM, FACFAS Sports Medicine Associates 21 Spurs Lane, Suite 210 & Suite 300 San Antonio, TX 78240 (210) 699-8326 sportsmedsa.com

PRIMARY CARE

KIDNEY SPECIALIST South Texas Renal Care (8 locations) (210) 212-8622 texaskidneycare.com

MEDICAL ONCOLOGY Edsel L. Hesita, MD Texas Oncology Westover Hills 11130 Christus Hills, Plaza III, Suite 210 San Antonio, TX 78251 Phone: (210) 245-2000 Fax: (210) 245-2020 edsel.hesita@usoncology.com texasoncology.com

Earl E. Ferguson, MD, FACS Dermatology Associates of San Antonio Dr. Earl E. Ferguson Plastic Surgery 15900 La Cantera Pkwy. Ste. 20270 San Antonio, TX 78256 Phone: (210) 290-9078 fergusonplasticsurgerySA.com

Health Texas Primary Care Doctors (18 Locations) (210) 731-HTMG healthtexas.org

SENIOR HEALTHCARE Gonzaba Medical Group (9 Locations) (210) 728-3392 gonzaba.com

THORACIC SURGERY Masaki Funamoyo MD, PLD Methodist Heart and Lung Institute 7726 Louis Pasteur Dr San Antonio, TX 78229 Phone: (210) 575-8485 masaki.funamoto@hcahealthcare.com sahealth.com PA I D A D V E RT I S I N G S E C T I O N

Scene In SA | SPRING 2025

SPRING 2025

Mayor Ron Looks On BUSINESS LITIGATION

Villarreal and Begum Phone: (210) 800-0000 vblawgroup.com

Olga Brown Law Offices of Olga Brown Phone: (210) 226-1550 Fax: (210) 226-1884 argyle2@sbcglobal.net

Wayne Wright Phone: (210) 888-0078 waynewright.com

CRIMINAL DEFENSE

Louis Durbin Phone: (210) 340-5550 Fax: (210) 340-5581 ldurbin@wyattlawfirm.com wyattlawfirm.com

Goldstein & Orr Phone: (210) 226-1463 Fax: (210) 226-8367 goldsteinhilley.com

FAMILY LAW Rojas Law Firm Phone: (210) 299-4600 Fax: (210) 299-4601 aidarojas@aidarojaslaw.com aidarojaslaw.com Orsinger Law Richard Orsinger Phone: (210) 225-5567 orsinger.com Soyars & Morgan Law

Phone: (210) 985-1698 soyarsmorganlaw.com

PERSONAL INJURY PLAINTIFF Mack Injury Attorneys Phone: (210) 333-6225 333mack.com Scheuerman Law Firm Phone: 210-469-1980 sch-lawfirm.com

PLUS

Jacelyn Blanchard-P Outstanding WOmen e in laW & medicin WOmen making Waves ace

St., Suite 301 | 315 E. Commerce 3 | Fax Tel: (210) 226-146

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| DISPLAY UNTIL APRIL

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HOSPITALITY Helotes Haciendas 18603 Bandera Road Helotes, TX 78023 Phone: (210) 381-8140

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

14325 POTRANCO RD

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MD Spine Care Wellness Center 3503 Paesanos Pkwy Suite 210 Shavano Park, TX 78231 Phone: (210) 640-9048

24165 W INTERSTATE 10

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8503 NW MILITARY HWY

78231

15000 SAN PEDRO AVE

78232

1955 NACOGDOCHES RD

78209

1955 NACOGDOCHES RD

78209

12777 IH 10 WDE ZAVALA

78230

1150 NW LOOP 1604

78248

10660 W FM 471

78251

999 E BASSE RD STE 150

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Curiosity Corner Store

NOTARY

2202 BROADWAY, BUILDING 9

Erica Losoya Phone: (210) 570-3154 erica@levelupconsultinggroup.net levelupconsultinggroup.net/notary

Twig Bookstore

Heritage Moving & Storage 13709 Topper Circle San Antonio, TX 78233 Phone: (210) 888-4241 Email: larry@heritagemoving.us.com

i

al, and p business, profession y represented prominent “Stone Col G&O has successfull Scandal, wrestler an in the Abscam United Noriega before the including a U.S. Congressm n President Manuel players, former Panamania .

Dr. Hunter S. Thompson and Gonzo journalist

tOP sa Family laWye

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MOVING

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served 25 yea Morton, who wrongfully d exoneree Michael conviction of a pro G&O represente first ever criminal in Texas and the whose capital of criminal discovery Hannah Overton, represented exoneree, and continues t evidence. The firm death row inmate, for Texas’ youngest science. confession of error was based on junk execution whose wrongful

3323 SE MILITARY DR

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officials, represented corporate years, the firm has to improving ou elebrating over 80 and others. Dedicated rs, public officials athletes, entertaine

6000 WEST AVE

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306 PEARL PKWY. #106

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Gravelmouth Gallery 313 CHESTNUT

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PA I D A D V E RT I S I N G S E C T I O N

SUMMER 2025 |

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Scene In SA thanks our community partners, Gravelmouth Gallery and San Antonio Street Art Initiative, for their support in the production of our cover story!

’09 a fun new novel now on Amazon Local journalist and reporter Berit Mason writes a fast-paced tale of galas, party girls, mean girls and old doyennes in this summertime poolside companion. ’09 is riveting escape, where one’s luxurious Mexican retirement is ruined when you’re kidnapped by a drug lord, where infidelity and divorce run rampant, where kind veterinarians rescue wildlife, and where a lost lazy news girl is forced from L.A. back home to ’09, to face the matrons, school teachers and mothers, whom she swore she’d left behind.

Foundations crack wide open, and Estes Lita and Jane, grand dames who rule ’09 society, topple onto unstable ground, and are finally kicked out, to make way for next-level socialites.

But insiders mean nothing in this fast growing town, where Californians, developers, and Mexican nationals don't care who used to be in charge— cause they’re the ones in charge, now.

Leila Meacham, author “Titans” “Roses” “Dragonfly” “Stories of how the ‘other half lives’ ... a great story.”

Pam Morsi Kiel, author “Simple Jess” “Sealed with a Kiss” “ ... very good writing ... great characters ... kept me turning the pages.”

Visit the Twig Book Shop on Saturday, October 4 at 11am for a sit and sign with author Berit Mason!

Twig Book Shop (306 Pearl Pkwy #106, San Antonio, TX 78215)

88

| SUMMER 2025

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