Owner
You-nique Physique
Trains Clients to be Stronger and Healthier from the Inside Out.
By Amy Morgan
Have you been influenced by the emphasis on health that’s sweeping America? Or maybe you continued to pack on the pounds after the pandemic, and you don’t like what you see in the mirror. Why not take a personalized approach to tackling your health and fitness?
Sonya Renea Roemisch, B.S., CPT, Master Trainer, opened You-nique Physique personal training studio, located at 7460 Callaghan Road, more than 20 years ago. Sonya knows firsthand how important it is for someone starting a fitness journey to have the right tools and a plan that works, backed by a supportive coach.
She brings 25 years of professional experience to her clients. Along with her bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology, she’s earned multiple personal trainer, group exercise, nutrition and wellness certifications including National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) Personal Trainer and Physique and Bodybuilding Coach.
And Sonya lives what she teaches. She has competed in NPC and WBFF in Figure, Fitness Model and Bikini Model categories. In 2018 she placed seventh at WBFF World in Las Vegas. She also has competed in several beauty pageants and won Miss Fit American Beauty in 2015. She displays her medals in the studio lobby where she consults with clients, designs their individual fitness plans and discusses nutrition and supplements to support their needs.
Sonya helps clients set goals after discussing eating habits and assessing body fat, weight and measurements from which to measure results. One of the most common pitfalls she sees is that people don’t eat enough protein to build or keep lean muscle mass, she noted.
Sonya creates a personal plan for each individual – nothing is one-size-fits-all. She emphasizes putting in the hard work to make lifestyle changes rather than relying on prescription medicine that will lead to weight regain once discontinued. “Our balanced approach is the key to lasting health and results,” she said. “Sending your body on a roller coaster ride not only is hard on your body but also your health.”
Why train with Sonya? Not only do clients get successful results, they know she cares.
“I created You-nique Physique to give people a different kind of fitness experience — one that’s private, personalized, and focused on long-term results, not quick fixes. My goal isn’t just to help you lose weight or gain strength — it’s to help you feel like YOU again.
Studio
Sonya Roemisch
With a degree in Kinesiology, a background in Psychology, and years of experience designing fitness and wellness programs, I bring both the science and the soul to what I do.
If you’re ready for:
• A space that feels safe, supportive, and judgment-free
• A coach who actually listens and tailors your plan to your body and goals
• A fresh start that leads to real, lasting change …
I’d love to be part of your journey. Let’s build strength from the inside out.”
She recounts client success stories – many who started off seriously overweight or struggling with other health issues like high blood pressure or diabetes. Many of her clients suffer from some type of autoimmune disorder, she said. Sonya can relate to this herself, as she has been able to control her own autoimmune issues through a healthy nutrition and lifestyle regimen.
When someone is out of shape and unhappy with their body image, it is intimidating to walk into a crowded gym, much less know how to make the time there effective. Sonya’s training sessions are productive and purposeful. She tailors every workout to the person’s fitness level –there’s no wasting time because a particular machine is occupied, or you don’t know what to do.
The You-nique Physique studio includes a cardio-focused room with a bike and stair stepper to elevate the heart rate and a separate room with weight machines, dumbbells, TRX straps, BOSUs and other training tools. Clients work at various stations with Sonya or one of her coaches one-on-one. She demonstrates, motivates, corrects form and counts reps during the session.
Sonya arranges cardio, conditioning, strength and core equipment for group classes and bootcamps and times exercises, so no one stands idle. She’s begun offering free bootcamps one Sunday a month to engage the community and inspire the pursuit of good health.
“Whether you’re just getting started or looking to push your limits, these bootcamps are built to support your goals in a high-energy, positive environment,” she posted on her website, www.youniquephysique.com.
Booking is easy – just email, text or DM through her socials to arrange a 30-minute or one-hour session or join the small group class schedule. Most people choose to purchase a package of classes or individual sessions to take advantage of discount pricing. Sonya has availability from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., six days a week. Those who work at USAA or in the medical center can complete a workout instead of sitting in commuter traffic. Or take advantage of her flexibility and schedule at an off time that works for you. Email Sonya at sonya@youniquephysique.com or call her at 210-348-2990 to book your first session.
Beat the Texas Temps with an Alaskan Adventure
By Dionne Roberts
Hey neighbors! It’s June, which means it’s heating up here in San Antonio and our thoughts turn to cooler climes!
If your daydreams are of an adventure that’s equal parts awe-inspiring and fun for everyone from your littles to your fun-loving friends, let me toss one word your way: Alaska. Yep, the Last Frontier isn’t just for rugged explorers— it’s a spectacular playground where memories are made amid jaw-dropping scenery. Oh, and you get to wear your snazzy jacket that would otherwise be heading to the back of the closet!
Picture this: cruising among towering glaciers with your best pals, binoculars ready to catch whales breaching nearby. Or hiking hand-inhand with the family along trails sprinkled with wildflowers and maybe a curious moose or two! Alaska is all about the great outdoors, but with plenty of creature comforts—you won’t be roughing it unless you want to.
For families, think Disney World’s magic—but this time with bears, bald eagles, and towering glaciers stealing the spotlight during the vibrant summer cruise season! Imagine waking up each day to breathtaking views from your ship’s deck, then stepping ashore to explore charming coastal towns or embark on exciting shore excursions like kayaking among icebergs or spotting wildlife in their natural playground. After a day filled with adventure, unwind aboard your cruise with delicious meals and cozy entertainment—creating unforgettable memories together under the endless summer daylight.
Friends seeking thrills? Alaska’s zip-line canopy tours, whitewater rafting, and fishing charters haven’t disappointed yet. And when you’re ready to take an easy day, the small towns like
Talkeetna or Homer offer charming cafes and local art to explore.
Best of all, Alaska’s a surprisingly easy place to get to—and with Foster Perry Travel’s help, planning the perfect itinerary tailored just for your crew is a breeze.
So next BBQ convo: instead of the usual beach talk, drop “Alaska adventure” and watch the excitement spark. Ready to make it happen? Let’s chat and get your group exploring America’s wild side!
Dionne Roberts, MCC, VTA Foster Perry Travel 888-878-5863 (888-TRVLTME) www.fosterperrytravel.com
Community Calendar
Presented
by Frost
Tejas Rodeo – Saturdays, March through November, 5 p.m. – 1 a.m. Enjoy live rodeo action: bronco riding, team roping, barrel racing, mutton bustin’ and calf scramble. Live music at 9 p.m. Tejas Rodeo Company, 401 Obst Road 78163; www.tejasrodeo.com
Nights at the Botanical Gardens – Select Wednesdays through September, 6-9 p.m. Enjoy extended hours, savor delicious food and beverages, explore a vibrant vendor market, and hear captivating live entertainment, all amidst the mesmerizing beauty of the Garden during the summer season. San Antonio Botanical Garden, 555 Funston Place 78209; www.sabot.org/gardennights.
“Theatre is Magik” summer camps at the Magik Theatre
Several sessions, dates vary from June 2 - Aug. 1, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Campers first through 12th grade learn acting, dance, voice, and tech theatre techniques, ending with a musical theatre-style sharing on the stage. The Magik Theatre, 420 S. Alamo St. 78205; www.magiktheatre.org.
The Big Run 5K – Wednesday, June 4, 7 p.m. Celebrate World Running Day with others who love the sport, sponsored by Soler’s Sports. The Ranch Motel, 3101 Broadway 78209; www.solerssports.com/the-big-run
Mays YMCA Summer Sports Clinics and Leagues – Last call registration through Friday, June 6. Sessions begin June 14. Clinics and leagues for kids 3-14. Days/times vary by sport and age. Soccer, baseball, flag football, basketball. Mays Family YMCA of Stone Oak, 21654 Blanco Road 78258; www.ymcasatx.org/programs/sports/youth-sports
5K Walk or Run – Saturday, June 7, 8 a.m. 11th annual race for Aid the Silent benefits deaf teens and children. Live music and food trucks. Boerne Main Plaza, 132 S. Main St., Boerne 78006; www.aidthesilent.com/5K
Run Day 5K – Saturday, June 7, 7:30 a.m., 5K, 7 a.m., Kids 1K. Join others in a celebration of the local running community. McAllister Park, 13298 Buckhorn Road 78247; www.runsignup.com
The Righteous Brothers – Lovin’ Feeling’ FarewellTour – Sunday, June 8, 4:00 p.m. Soul stirring nostalgic concert featuring heartwarming ballads and energetic rock anthems by Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Legends. HEB Performance Hall at the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts, 100 Auditorium Circle 78205; www.tobincenter.org
Moulin Rouge the Musical – through Sunday, June 8. Times vary. Enter a world of splendor and romance, glitz, grandeur and glory! The musical is the winner of 10 Tony Awards including Best Musical. Majestic Theatre, 224 E. Houston 78205; www.majesticempire.com/events.
Concordia Vacation Bible School – Monday, June 9 - Friday, June 13, 9 a.m.- noon. True North shares the love of Jesus with children ages 4 years – 5th grade through games, crafts, worship and more. Concordia Lutheran Church, 16801 Huebner Road 78258; www.concordialutheranchurch.com.
Fellowship of San Antonio Vacation Bible School – Monday, June 9 - Friday, June 13, 6 – 8:30 p.m. True North – Trusting Jesus in a Wild World. Fun activities, engaging lessons and God’s Word. VBS for entering kinder through 6th grade. Fellowship of San Antonio, 23755 Canyon Golf Road 78258; www.thefellowshipofsa.org.
Cornerstone Vacation Bible School – Tuesday, June 10 - Thursday, June 12, 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., with early drop off at 8 a.m. Wild West VBS activities include Bible lessons, songs, entertainers, games, hands-on activities, free lunch and snacks for children ages 5 through 6th grade. Accessible for deaf/HOH. Cornerstone Church, 18755 Stone Oak Parkway 78258; www.sacornerstone.org
Ninja Kidz! Live: Infinite Possibilities – Saturday, June 14, 6 p.m. The Ninja Kidz are leaping out of the screens for an audience participation live action adventure. HEB Performance Hall at the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts, 100 Auditorium Circle 78205; www.tobincenter.org.
SARR Texas Sun Showdown – Sunday, June 15, 7:00 a.m. 5k, ½ marathon and relay. McAllister Park Pavillion #2, 13298 Buckhorn Road 78247; www.runsignup.com/Race/Info/TX/SanAntonio/ SARRCarrabbas5KHalfMarathonandHalfMarathonRelay
St. Thomas Episcopal Church VBS – Monday, June 16 - Friday, June 20, 9 a.m. - noon. True North: Trusting Jesus in a Wild World. For kids age 3 - 5th grade. St. Thomas Episcopal Church, 1416 North Loop 1604 E. 78232; www.tom1604.org.
Single Professionals Networking Meeting – Friday, June 20, 4:30-6:30 p.m. Join other 55+ widowed, divorced and single mature professionals for conversation, libations and food in a relaxed, social setting. Trilogy Pizza, 19141 Stone Oak Parkway; www.spn-sa.org
Dragons Love Tacos at the Magik Theatre – June 21- Aug. 3. Dates and times vary. Live theater production adapted from the NY Times best-selling Dragons LoveTacos, the sizzling story is full of fiery fun for the entire family. Magik Theatre, 420 S. Alamo St. 78205; www.magiktheatre.org
Rapid Runner
Reagan
Senior Speeds into D1 Scholarship
By Amy Morgan
Every cloud has a silver lining. When an eighthgrade stress fracture and torn hip ligament derailed Reagan High School senior Gavin Chapa’s future as a football kicker, he turned to running to get into shape after an eight-month hiatus from sports. His mother encouraged him to join Reagan’s cross country, rather than football, team his freshman year.
Little did Gavin know that he was destined to become an elite runner. This year, Gavin finished fourth in the 3200 and sixth in the 1600-meter races in track at state competition, on the heels of a second place finish the year prior. His times have been impressive enough to earn him a college scholarship and a spot on Texas A&M’s 2025 cross country team.
Gavin’s whittled his mile time from a fast five-minutes to his best, 4.07, a record he hopes to top. He’s qualified for state individually three times in cross country, and twice as a team, memories of which are some of his most treasured.
He enjoys the camaraderie and opportunity to create a bond with his teammates. “I want to be great because of the people surrounding me,” he said.
He'll never forget texting his father his New Year’s resolution in the wee hours as 2022 dawned. Gavin committed he was “willing to do whatever it took to be the best he could be.”
He immersed himself in the running lifestyle – starting to meal prep and concentrate on proper sleep, nutrition and training to enhance his performance. “You have a cause bigger than yourself,” he said, noting that he finds great inspiration in his parents’ examples. “I see what they have accomplished, and I don’t want to let them down,” he added. His dedication has been an example for his 14-yearold brother, Sebastian, who will start Reagan in the fall just as Gavin leaves. He’s already training for Reagan’s cross country and track teams. “He’s miles ahead of me when I was his age,” Gavin said. “I hope someday he’s even better.”
Family legacy is one reason why Gavin chose to attend college at Texas A&M. He’ll join his sister,
Isabella, a 2023 Reagan graduate, and follow his parents’ footsteps. College Station feels like a second home, as Gavin grew up tailgating at football games. He also bonded with members of the cross country team during visits. “I felt so welcomed,” he said. “The whole team spent time with me.” Gavin believes he’ll be able to contribute to the young team as it grows.
But running wasn’t the only reason Gavin selected Texas A&M out of 14 rivals, including Austin’s University of Texas. “I wanted to excel in academics as well as athletics,” he said. “Sports lasts for a season, but education is timeless. I trust the coaches and teachers.”
Gavin plans to major in business management or finance. Texas A&M allows its business school majors to remain flexible and discover what they prefer before specializing, an attractive option, as he has not finalized his path.
Gavin also participates in the Young Men’s Service League, a mother-son community service program. Whether it’s sorting at the SA Food Bank or delivering Meals on Wheels, YMSL is “such a good way to use what little free time I have to benefit society and spend time with my mom.” He looks forward to completing his confirmation this summer at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, which the family joined when they moved to Stone Oak when he was in eight grade.
By Amy Morgan
It’s a 10
7to7 Dental’s New Spring Branch Office Already Increasing Access to Care
The Bulverde-Spring Branch community is growing by leaps and bounds!
On May 1, 7to7 Dental & Orthodontics opened the doors to its tenth office right in the heart of Spring Branch, 427 Singing Oak, just adjacent to Walmart.
“People are super excited they have a dentist out here that has availability and convenience –several patients brought the whole family in at the same time,” said Office Manager Sierra Anderson, R.D.A. One of 7to7 Dental’s trademarks is to offer treatment hours convenient to the patient. That’s why the practice is open from 7 a.m.- 7 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 9 a.m. -5 p.m., weekends for dentistry for the whole family and emergencies.
The Singing Hills location includes 12 chairs so families can schedule dental exams and cleanings for everyone simultaneously. Each is stocked with state-of-the art technology and equipment (including television screens in the ceiling to keep patients entertained while the professionals are taking care of them.)
In the first few days, the 7to7 Dental team served more than just patients needing cleanings and exams. The weekend was busy with urgent visits. Stormy Lopez, D.D.S., saw several surgical patients for emergencies – including a man who was in such pain he needed an immediate extraction – on the office’s first Saturday! Dr. Lopez not only took care of his problem, she performed a bone graft, created and installed a temporary bridge and scheduled follow up for a permanent device.
The patient told Dr. Lopez it was the best dental experience he’d ever had. “He was so happy the office was close to his house and he didn’t have to miss work to be treated,” she added.
Another woman also needed a procedure on Saturday to relieve her pain. She was nervous, but Dr. Lopez was so gentle, the patient didn’t even realize the treatment had been completed! Dr. Lopez reported the patient thanked her over and over and even prayed for her, which made them both cry happy tears together.
“That started my morning,” Dr. Lopez said. “I knew I was in the right place with the right people. It has been amazing so far. It’s been a privilege to take care of this community that feels underserved.”
Dr. Lopez graduated from dental school at UTHSC in San Antonio in 2014. The native San Antonian joined 7to7 Dental’s Cibolo location three years ago. She’s honored that co-owners Justin Coke and Dr. Tiffany Winburn noticed her efforts and trust her to open the Singing Hills location.
“I hope to show this community what 7to7 is all about,” she said. “It is such a different, patientcentric, dynamic.” You might see Dr. Lopez stopping on the road around the Bulverde area. She often rescues animals she finds wandering and even returned a stray chicken once!
If you’re new to the area, there’s no need to worry about leaving your previous dental insurance behind. 7to7 Dental offers a phenomenal Membership Coverage that can take care of your entire family. As a member, you’ll receive discounts on all services – including fillings, implants, and even orthodontics! See all this coverage has to offer at www.7to7Dental.com.
As of the beginning of May, 7to7 Dental still had a few free Sonicare electric toothbrushes left for new patients. But don’t delay if you hope to receive the prize. People are eagerly taking advantage of the practice’s convenient hours and accessibility in Spring Branch. Call 210-495-2000 or book online today!
Hearing Hear-O
Therapy/Service Bernadoodle Delights Audiology Patients
By Camp Bow Wow Staff
Imagine walking into a doctor’s office to have your ears checked. You might be a little nervous or uncertain, and especially if you are not hearing well. Or maybe you are bringing in your wiggly toddler, and tensions are high. If the audiology office happens to be Hear in Texas, located in New Braunfels, you might be surprised to find yourself greeted by a 90-lb Bernadoodle. Hear-O is not only the practice’s official mascot and “pawdiologist,” he’s a trained therapy and service dog.
Hear-O officially belongs to Carlos, who runs the office for his wife, Dr. Sally Miranda, Au.D., where she and her team treat hearing issues for people of all ages. The four-year old pup serves Carlos, a disabled veteran, by detecting blood pressure or sugar changes that could endanger Carlos’ health. “If Hear-O senses something, he puts his head on my knee and diverts my attention to him,” Carlos said.
Hear-O also helps Carlos stand if he loses his balance. These skills come in handy at the office as Hear-O can tell who needs his quiet comfort and welcomes snuggles from strangers.
Hear-O comes to work with the Mirandas every day –ready to provide a hug or lick a hand to soothe young and old alike. Even patients who say they don’t like dogs are won over by his charm. Some schedule extra appointment time to interact with Hear-O.
His heritage combines the best traits from his mother, a Bernese Mountain Dog bred for friendliness and docility, and his father, a Standard Poodle, known for being hypoallergenic and intelligent.
Carlos enlisted Dog Trainers Elite to teach Hear-O skills to earn his therapy and service vests. When he’s “dressed,” Hear-O is welcome at locations all over New Braunfels. He accompanies Carlos to senior centers, fire stations and the children’s museum, where he not only spreads doggy love but serves as an ambassador for good auditory health. Children are happy to perform their hearing screenings with Hear-O nearby. “You can hear and focus better when you are happy,” Carlos said, and noted that Hear-O does not get tired. “He thrives on the attention. He can do this all day.”
Visits to assisted living homes are especially treasured. Nurses told Carlos they had never seen a particular resident smile until Hear-O walked into her room. “When he sees a group, he seems to know who needs to see him first,” Carlos reported. “The residents’ faces light up.” Hear in Texas regularly visits seniors to conduct screenings, educate patients about the connection between hearing loss and dementia and ensure devices are clean and working properly. Hear in Texas’ partnership with the Alzheimer’s Association brings in many patients eager for Hear-O’s hugs.
Carlos served four years in the U.S. Air Force. His work calibrating fighter jets under the turbines took a toll on his hearing. As a disabled veteran, he has a strong connection with the veteran community in New Braunfels and often brings Hear-O to meetings. “Some of the older vets may seem stern, but they love Hear-O,” he said.
The Mirandas look forward to adding to their pack this month, when they’ll welcome another Bernadoodle, “little brother,” Audio. He’s expected to eclipse Hear-O at 120 lbs once he reaches his full stature. Carlos said Hear-O will provide a great example. Once Audio completes his training, the office will be even more responsive to patients’ “pawdiology” needs.
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