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Compassionate Care for Children Baptist Children’s Hospital at North Central (BCH)

The NICU teams that care for families are extensive and include – a NICU physician, nurse, respiratory therapist, physical therapist, speech therapist, pharmacist, chaplain and social worker.

By Amy Morgan

F

or parents, there is nothing more important than the wellbeing, health and safety of their children.

From birth and throughout a child’s life, knowing where to go when the unexpected happens can provide great peace of mind. That’s why the Baptist Children’s Hospital at North Central (BCH) is ready to provide expert care for newborns and children experiencing illness or injury when an emergency happens.

Highest Level NICU for Newborn Care Should a problem arise during the birth of a child, the 72-bed Level IV Neonatal ICU at Baptist Children’s Hospital provides the highest level of care available in San Antonio. The NICU is staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week by in-house board-certified neonatology physicians. Brent Reyburn, D.O., M.S., NICU Medical Director, has led the hospital’s neonatology department for the past two years.

Dr. Reyburn spearheads a comprehensive team of five neonatology specialty doctors, as well as nurse practitioners, physical, occupational and respiratory therapists to take care of the tiniest and sickest babies.

“We provide a complete complement of subspecialty team members who are all pediatrics trained,” Dr.

Reyburn said. Parents can feel confident that their newest family member will be in the capable hands of experienced, highly qualified medical professionals.

Neonatal care begins in the delivery room, where a resuscitation team stands by every high-risk pregnancy in case immediate intervention is required.

“We are prepared if mom has pre-eclampsia or diabetes,” Dr. Reyburn said. “If the baby’s heart rate slows and we need to do an emergency C-section, our team of specially trained nurses and neonatologists are available 24 hours a day."

Any baby born at less than 35-weeks gestation automatically is admitted to the NICU, Dr. Reyburn said. Babies younger than one month who need medical attention in the emergency room are also sent straight to the NICU. Other reasons a newborn might land in the NICU include those with respiratory problems who need help breathing, complications from a multiple birth or babies who are unable to feed well by mouth.

A big concern for parents is being able to spend time with their newborn if the baby is admitted to the NICU. At BCH, parents don’t have to be separated from their baby. Even if the mother is discharged, BCH has special rooms for families so that they can stay together. Perhaps baby is weaning off of a monitor or will be released with complicated equipment. The family can room together, while receiving helpful information and education under the watchful eyes of the neonatal nurses.

Pediatric Emergency Services BCH’s Pediatric Emergency room features pediatric specialists trained to handle pediatric illness and injury for newborns to 17 years old. “BCH is located right in Stone Oak’s own back yard, but it offers the same care and subspecialty support as facilities in the medical center,” said Adam Gibbs, MPA, BAAS, LP, Administrator for all Baptist Health System emergency rooms.

Parents also benefit from the experiences of others who have walked in their shoes. The Parent Council stocks a NICU family lounge with snacks, crafts and games for siblings, gifts, and hot meals. “Graduated” parents share wisdom learned through their experiences. Parent Council lead volunteer Christine Garza remembers how she felt when her now fouryear-old twins spent four months in the NICU after being born at 23 weeks.

“This great group of former NICU parents answered questions and gave me hope. They reassured me that the girls were getting the best possible care and that we were going through something very temporary,” Garza said. “The NICU staff is the heartbeat of the hospital. They provide the best possible bedside manner and calming energy in a time of crisis. They are just superheroes!”

Children experiencing asthma attack, uncontrollable nausea/diarrhea, migraine, fainting, acute ear or abdominal pain, seizure, broken bone or fever of unknown cause will be seen by board-certified pediatric emergency room personnel supported by pediatric subspecialty physicians in eight different fields – everything from gastroenterology to neurology. While any time waiting with a hurting child can seem like an eternity to a parent, the goal of BCH’s Pediatric ER is for patients to be triaged and placed in one of the unit’s 24 beds in less than 10 minutes.

Emergency physicians make a diagnosis, administer treatment (like respiratory therapy, IV medicines or fluids) and either discharge the patient or admit the child for further care, according to Gibbs. BCH’s Pediatric ER offers the full complement of diagnostic testing equipment – X-ray, MRI, CT scan and full laboratory. Phlebotomists in the Pediatric PDQ outpatient lab are specially trained to start IVs on tiny babies or those with difficult veins to make the experience less traumatic.

“Our nurses are great with kids,” said Gibbs. There’s a play area in the waiting room and televisions in the treatment rooms. Child Life Specialists bring smiles to kids at their most vulnerable time, reading books, playing games or offering take-home blankets and stuffed animals, he added.

“Baptist Children’s Hospital at North Central is an acute care children’s hospital in North Central San Antonio with admission capability,” Gibbs said. This means that if your child’s diagnosis requires a hospital stay, they can go right up to the second floor, all under one roof and in the Stone Oak community. “Many of the staff live in the Stone Oak area and are always aware they may be treating a neighbor or their own child’s classmate,” Gibbs added.

The Pediatric Emergency Room also offers psychological intervention for a child or teen if a doctor suspects he or she may be suffering from severe depression or may be suicidal. A licensed clinical social worker determines the need for a psychiatric admission or outpatient follow up.

The Nest Women’s Services Most parents will not require the critical emergency care available at Baptist Children’s Hospital at North Central. The Nest Women’s Services is designed to

make the delivery experience one they will cherish for a lifetime. The Nest features beautiful, newly decorated, comfortable labor and delivery rooms with equally exceptional post-partum rooms for families to begin bonding with their newborns. The Nest Women’s Services at North Central Baptist Hospital is located at 520 Madison Oak Drive, close to home and convenient for family to visit.

Compassionate Care Close to Home Whether it’s the joyous occasion of the birth of a new baby or a medical concern, Stone Oak parents can be confident that North Central Baptist Hospital stands equipped and ready to provide their entire family with high level, quality and compassionate care – right in their own neighborhood.

Deliver Your Baby at The Nest With access to the highest level of maternal and neonatal intensive care, the Nest at North Central Baptist Hospital is the trusted place to welcome your baby into the world.

Learn More at BaptistHealthSystem.com/NCBWomens or Call 877-649-3292

Stone Oak Church - Your Neighborhood Church

Stone Oak Church Sunday Service @ 10:30 a.m.

Children’s Sunday School @ 10:30 a.m.

Adult Bible Study Sunday @ 9:00 a.m.

20024 Crescent Oaks San Antonio, TX 78258 (across from Stone Oak Elementary School) 210-497-7974

www.stoneoakchurch.org

Celebrating our 30th Anniversary in Stone Oak! Come meet Mark Sontowski, our new Pastor!

MEDICAL MINUTE

Think FAST Know the Symptoms of Stroke

By Amy Morgan

M

ay is national Stroke Awareness Month. Did you know stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in the United States, according to the American Stroke Association?

Strokes are caused when a blood vessel that carries oxygen to the brain is either blocked by a clot or bursts.

The part of the brain that doesn’t get the blood it needs begins to die due to lack of oxygen. Treatments are available to halt or lessen the effects, but they must be started within the first few hours. Every second counts!

Matthew Cross, M.D. has spent 16 years as an Emergency Physician, the last five at Physicians Premier, a freestanding emergency room located west of Highway 281 on Highway 46 near the HEB Plus. He emphasizes it’s important to know the symptoms of a stroke so you can take quick action.

•

• • • •

Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body.

Sudden confusion, trouble speaking, or difficulty understanding speech.

Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes.

Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance, or lack of coordination.

Sudden severe headache with no known cause.

The American Stroke Association coined the acronym FAST: • • • •

F—Face: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?

A—Arms: Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?

S—Speech: Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase.

Is the speech slurred or strange?

T—Time: If you see any of these signs, call 9-1-1 right away.

and CT scans (all available on-site at Physicians Premier) to diagnose if someone is indeed having a stroke or if something else, like a migraine, is just mimicking the symptoms.

He remembers a patient who had lost part of their peripheral vision, a relatively mild symptom with a variety of causes. The CT scan was normal, but an MRI showed the patient had suffered a stroke caused by a blood clot. Dr. Cross started the patient on a blood thinner, was able to reverse the damage, and the patient experienced a complete recovery.

“Diagnosing a stroke is not something you can do for yourself, nor can it be accomplished over the phone or via telemedicine,” he emphasized.

Another category of stroke is TIA – or as Dr. Cross says, “a stroke that goes away.” But you don’t know if it’s going to go away until it does. And then, you don’t know what caused it. “Is there a clot somewhere or a vascular spasm that decreased blood flow? Don’t put off or dismiss any stroke – especially a TIA,” he warns. “You want to prevent the big stroke that may be lurking.”

As with most health concerns, prevention is key. Dr. Cross suggests lowering the risk factors you can control. Don’t smoke, eat a balanced diet, watch your sugar, and maintain healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

When it comes to stroke: Think FAST!

Physicians Premier allows patients to access the care they need when they Get things checked out as soon as you notice symptoms, need it, saving time, money, Dr. Cross says. “If you wait because you ‘think it’s nothing,’ alleviating concern and allowing for you’ll be out of the treatment window,” he cautions. Don’t a healthier patient and community. try to drive yourself – call an ambulance or a friend to Find them at MDpremier.com. take you to a trained emergency medicine physician who is practiced in deciphering the signs of stroke and can administer medicine to dissolve the clot or reduce blood Matthew Cross, M.D. pressure immediately.

The physician will be able to conduct a physical exam, take vital signs and blood work, and order EKG, MRI

Emergency Medicine Physician

EMERGENCY CARE 24/7!

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

Family Focused

Reagan Senior PAL Supports Siblings, Other Students

By Amy Morgan

R

onald Reagan High School senior Olivia Redmond stands poised to spring forward in life. In just a few short months, she’ll head off to nursing school at either Texas Tech or University of Central Florida, leaving behind her close-knit San Antonio Family.

“Family is my whole life,” she said. “I’ve never been without them for more than a week. I know they will be cheering me on.”

Olivia and her two siblings, junior Logan and freshman Lourdes, moved to Stone Oak with their mother during Olivia’s freshman year. While Olivia originally joined the volleyball team, her mom’s stage three breast cancer diagnosis in February 2020, coupled with the pandemic, motivated Olivia to step back.

“I knew she (her mother) needed the help at home,” Olivia said. “It was bitter-sweet – I got to spend a lot of time with her, but it was very, very scary.”

Thankfully, after radiation and chemotherapy, her mother is cancer free. The family circled the wagons during the crisis and remain close. Olivia now cheers for Logan on Reagan’s soccer team. She’s made it a point not to miss a game yet.

Olivia drives Lourdes to Reagan, then heads off to her own classes at North East’s Career and Technology Classroom to obtain a medical assistant’s certification.

Olivia’s learned how to take vital signs, give injections, and suture as well as understand patient records and medical office technology. Olivia’s wanted to be a nurse since childhood. The NEISD program prepares any eligible district student for the certification exam without the expense of paying for the class privately.

After CTEC, Olivia returns briefly to the Reagan campus, although her activities as a PAL mentor often take her to Stone Oak’s middle and elementary schools. “I love hanging out with my PALees,” she said. “It’s honestly life-changing to know what those kids go through and try to help them.”

Olivia joined other PALs at the district-wide Special Olympics track and field meet this spring. Each PAL encouraged an individual student. “It was really priceless to see their little faces light up at the awards ceremony,” she said.

Olivia was personally impacted when the PAL sponsor, Coach Kevin Hernandez, passed away from COVID last year. “He impacted my life like no other,” she said. “He always made sure I could attend PALS and still stay safe for my mom during COVID. He cared for so many others so deeply, he was such a good person. It’s ironic that my mom is fine because of the care he took, and then he dies.”

Olivia leads PAL's suicide prevention team. “COVID took down so many people’s mental health,” she said. “This is real.” Many on the Reagan campus wear purple on Wednesdays in support. “A kid I was close with passed away from suicide, and my mom was diagnosed with breast cancer all in two weeks. If I were to let issues take over, I wouldn’t be able to get through life,” Olivia said. She finds strength in her faith.

“God gives his hardest battles to his strongest soldiers,” she said. “God is trying to show me his way through life.” Like her mentor, Coach Hernandez, Olivia hopes to make others’ days better.

DENTAL DIGEST

Operationalize your Orthodontia 7to7 Offers Braces, Invisalign® at your Convenience

By Amy Morgan

Y

ou’ve looked in the mirror and realize you are not satisfied with your smile. Maybe crooked teeth or a prominent overbite are making you self-conscious. Don’t let apprehensions about cost or time hold you back.

Orthodontia has never been easier or more affordable.

7to7 Dental & Orthodontics, located at 20122 Stone Oak Parkway, planned its practice to offer orthodontics alongside comprehensive dental care for the entire family. No need to make extra trips to the office. Whether it’s a middle schooler needing braces or an adult wanting to correct a misaligned bite, appointments can be scheduled in conjunction with regular dental office visits for the whole family — even early in the morning or late in the day to accommodate busy schedules. Recently the practice dedicated an entire Saturday in April to initial orthodontic consultations to provide more flexibility. Some braces patients were even able to have bands placed that same day!

Michelle Alvarez, 7to7 Dental’s Lead Orthodontic Assistant, has been at Stone Oak for four years. Whether it’s traditional metal brackets and wires, clear brackets, Invisalign® trays or tools, patient paperwork or resources, Michelle ensures everything the orthodontist needs is ready for the patient. She also takes X-rays and photos and scans the teeth so the orthodontist can create a personalized plan complete with 3D model to physically depict the mouth before and after treatment.

“Patients come to us because they want straight teeth,” she said. “But our main goal is not only straight teeth, but a functional bite for a lifetime.” While most teens still opt for traditional braces, many adults are choosing Invisalign® — Michelle included. Like many Invisalign® users, Michelle found her teeth had shifted because she had not committed to wearing her retainers in adulthood.

Invisalign® involves wearing a series of specially crafted trays in the mouth over a determined period of time until the desired results are achieved — usually six -12 months. Patients choose Invisalign® because the trays are more aesthetically pleasing, non-invasive, comfortable and easy to keep clean. Patients wear each tray for 22 hours a day – any time they are not eating (or drinking something dark – like red wine or coffee, which will stain them.) Every several weeks a new tray will move the teeth a little farther toward their predetermined place.

Unlike unlicensed products that may be obtainable online, Invisalign® is only approved to be used in the care of boardcertified dentists or orthodontists, because the dental professional will make sure a patient’s tooth function is being maintained throughout treatment. Michael Roberts, D.D.S., 7to7 Dental’s orthodontist at the Stone Oak location, brings three decades of experience in dentistry and orthodontics to 7to7 Dental.

Michelle is enthusiastic about her Invisalign® treatment. “I didn’t expect it to be so comfortable,” she said. “You don’t even feel the movement! I’m getting the results I want, and aesthetically, it’s amazing.”

Both Invisalign® and braces remain affordable. When the number of retainers is considered, Invisalign®’s slightly higher initial cost becomes almost negligible. Many insurances reimburse orthodontia, but for those that don’t, 7to7 Dental offers financing and payment plans to make sure cost is not an obstacle.

The professionals at 7to7 Dental & Orthodontics care about your oral health and are available 7 a.m.- 7 p.m., seven days a week for dentistry for the whole family and emergencies. 7to7 Dental is a local business, grown in 14 years from the practice of one dentist and six staff. Co-Owners Tiffany Winburn, D.M.D., and Justin Coke, and many of the 250 staff members live in Stone Oak with their families and are part of the community.

7 to 7 Dental is proud to offer both traditional bracket & wire braces as well as Invisalign clear aligners. As a preferred Invisalign provider, you can be assured you're receiving the VERY BEST Invisalign experi ence! Book your free consultation today & begin the journey toward the smile you've always wanted!

210-495-2000

www.7to7Dental.com

Facebook: 7 to 7 Dental & Orthodontics Instagram: @7to7Dental Call or book online with ease

PET TIP

Provision for Pups

Protect Your Pet if You Become Unable to Care for Them

kennel or that trusted person’s home. Do they have a special bed, blanket or toy? Make sure Fido’s caregiver knows how/what to feed him and his medical routine.

By Camp Bow Wow Staff

P

et owners agree — we love our precious pups. Furry family members are important to those who live alone, and especially those in their senior years. In fact, according to senioradvisor.com, 43% of senior adults own pets. Unfortunately, health problems are a concern associated with aging.

Hospital stays, physical decline, unexpected death, all lead to the need for a contingency plan to care for your canine companion should the unexpected arise.

Take the time to provide for your precious pup and prevent his being shuttled to a shelter in your absence. Make sure to post your information in a place where emergency personnel will find it – both at home and in a card in your wallet.

In the short term, boarding at the kennel where Fido is familiar will provide continuity and comfort. Don’t forget to think about how he’ll get there. Be sure your plan includes enlisting a friend, family member or neighbor who knows where to go and agrees to transport your pup if you are unable.

Think through the things your pup needs to ensure a smooth transition, whether to the

This person might be the one who’d agree to rehome Fido in the event of your death.

Think carefully about who might be the best fit for your pup. Are they responsible? Is their home environment conducive to your pup’s temperament? You should plan to leave Fido’s future parents funds to cover the financial burden of assuming his care. To determine the amount, consider the cost of food, veterinarian bills, grooming, medicines, toys, treats and burial. Don’t forget about a backup and last-resort option, such as a sanctuary, pet retirement home, or service that finds loving homes for orphaned pets.

For peace of mind, it’s wise to consider drawing up some legal documents stating your wishes and designating your pet’s guardians. Notify all beneficiaries of your estate of the arrangement so there are no squabbles about who actually keeps your pup.

Pets can be provided for through wills, trusts, or even noted on simple legal documents easily found on the internet. Consider a DIY Pet Protection Agreement available through LegalZoom. The document will allow you to name a caregiver and set aside money to cover Fido’s expenses. This agreement applies whether you die or just become ill. Other resources, especially short-term: Meals on Wheels offers pet support, and local shelters may know families willing to help. There’s even a hospital foster program called PACT that you can find online.

Be prepared. We never know what’s around the next corner. Don’t leave your pup’s provision to chance.

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The Good Neighbor of the Month presented by Travis Slaydon State Farm Insurance

Senior Support Social Group a Good Neighbor to those Suddenly Alone

By Amy Morgan

T

aking care of widows is a core command for a good neighbor. We don’t have to think very hard to remember the feeling of isolation as we remained home during the pandemic. Imagine if that situation was not yours just for a season but suddenly became a daily reality due to the death of a spouse or a divorce.

Isolation is felt even more keenly by those who live alone.

To combat loneliness, several mature single adults formed a group to be that good neighbor to those in midlife who found themselves suddenly single. They formed the Single Professionals Network (SPN) 34 years ago as a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of its members through fun social events.

The group meets primarily for weekly happy hours at local restaurants but also plans day trips to nearby attractions, according to Activities Director Dolly Isakson. Two of the founding members, Sandra Chandler and Barbara Knorr, still remain on the active roll.

While its main purpose is to provide a safe opportunity to meet with other likeminded individuals to form friendships, SPN offers support for those who find themselves single due to death or divorce. Dolly recounts the story of a new member, Judy, who came to the group shortly after the death of her husband. A few weeks later Judy confessed she initially thought SPN was a grief group.

“Instead, she found this group of alive people who are having the time of their lives,” Dolly said, adding the woman remarked, “It’s been my salvation!”

Dolly could relate. She found SPN in 2009 shortly after the death of her husband. “SPN provides a real service to the community,” she said. “It is so easy when you lose a spouse to sit home and not get out of your recliner. Your married friends have their own agenda, and you need to find an outlet.”

Single Professionals Network elected a new board in April.

Dolly Isakson and Jo Anne Hale enjoy socializing at many Stone Oak restaurants with the Single Professionals Network.

It takes courage to step out alone after a lifetime of being part of a couple. Dolly and Jo Anne Hale, a neighbor who coincidentally lost her husband just one day after Dolly, attended their first SPN meeting together and became fast friends.

“Many of us find ourselves alone after many years of marriage and raising children. This can happen suddenly and be very overwhelming. I quickly realized that I was responsible for my happiness and wellbeing. We walked into a SPN birthday party not knowing a soul, not really even knowing what SPN was. Immediately, we were welcomed and introduced to others. This was at least twelve years ago!” Jo Anne said. “SPN provides a family of friends, a place where you can walk in alone and feel right at home.”

Dolly testifies to the importance of staying socially connected and gives an example of Bob, an active, vibrant 96-year-old WWII veteran who still shoots a high 70s in his three-times weekly golf games, “all because of his social life.”

‘As you get older, the most important factor of your wellbeing is your social life,” she said. “You’ll be happier, healthier, and live longer.” Fortunately for Stone Oak’s mature singles, Single Professionals Network provides just that outlet. Reach Dolly at SPN-SA.org to find out about the next event.

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Community Calendar Presented by Frost

Single Professionals Networking Meeting - Friday, May 19, 5-7 p.m. Join other 55+ widowed, divorced and single mature professionals for conversation, libations and food in a relaxed, social setting. Entertainment

by Paul Davis. Vallarta Bar and Grill, 14814 Jones Maltsberger Road 78247; www.spn-sa.org.

Zac Brown Band – OUT IN THE MIDDLE TOUR – Sunday, May 22, 7-9:30 p.m. Zac Brown Band is a multi-platinum, GRAMMY Award-winning group known for its dynamic live acts. Real Life Amphitheater, 16765 Lookout Road, Selma 78154; www.tobincenter.org/zacbrownband.

Doing Good on the Green – Monday, May 2, 8 a.m. Shotgun start. 18th annual golf tournament supports the San Antonio Food Bank. TPC, 23808 Resort Parkway 78261; www.safoodbank.org/doing-good.

17th annual Golf FORE a Cause Classic Tuesday, May 3, 8:15 a.m. Shotgun start.

Play on a PGA Tour tournament on the Oaks Course conditioned right after the Valero Texas Open. Benefits the Ronald McDonald house. TPC San Antonio, 23808 Resort Parkway 78261; www.rmhcsanantonio.org/event.

Spa Girl Tri – Saturday, May 7, 6:30 a.m.

Sprint distance triathlon for women with a pampering finish. JW Marriott Resort and Spa, 23808 Resort Parkway 78261; www.spagirltri.com.

Youth Orchestras of San Antonio – Monday, May 23- Wednesday, May 25. Times vary by school. Festival of 20 area middle and high school bands and orchestras. Tobin Center for the Performing Arts, 100 Auditorium Circle 78205; www.yosa.org/invitational.

Immersive Van Gogh - Thursday, May 26, 2 p.m. - dates and times through Sept. 5. A Zoo La-La! – Thursday, May 12, 6-9 p.m. Sip, digital art experience that invites audiences Savor and Support the SA Zoo. All-inclusive to enter the works of van Gogh. 221 Burleson party includes live music, food and drinks.

78202. www.goghsanantonio.com.

San Antonio Zoo, 3903 N. St. Mary’s St. 78212; info@sazoo.org.

NEISD final day of school – May 27

Special Olympics Texas Summer Games Thursday, May 12 - Sunday, May15.

Times vary. Texas Summer Olympic Games include cycling, gymnastics, athletics, soccer Single Professionals Networking Meeting – Friday, May 6, 5-7 p.m. Join other and tennis. Morgan’s Wonderland, 5223 55+ widowed, divorced and single mature David Edwards Drive 78233; www.sotx.org/ professionals for conversation, libations and summergames. food in a relaxed, social setting. Ajuua, 11703 Taco Fest: Music Y Mas – Saturday, May Huebner Road 78230; www.spn-sa.org.

14, noon – 11 p.m. Festival with tacos, food trucks, live music, cooking demonstrations Junie B. Jones: Toothless Wonder and expanded children’s area. Travis Park, Saturday, May 7- June 12. Saturdays at 2 p.m., 5 p.m., Sundays at 3 p.m. Live theater 301 E. Travis St. 78205; production featuring beloved children’s book www.tacocapitaloftheworld.com. character Junie B. Jones. The Magik Theatre, Children’s Chorus of San Antonio 420 S. Alamo St. 78205; Presents Sounds in Color – Sunday, www.magiktheatre.org.

May 15, 4 p.m. A multimedia concert with local artists and musicians. Tobin Center for the Performing Arts, 100 Auditorium Circle 78205; www.tobincenter.org/boxoffice/2022-05/sounds-color.

NEISD High School Graduations – Monday, May 30. Reagan, 9 a.m.; Johnson High School, 7 p.m. Alamodome, 100 Montana St. 78203; www.NEISD.com.

SARR Carrabba’s Run – Saturday, June 18, 7:30 a.m. Twenty-first SARR 5k, ½ marathon and 4 person-1/2 marathon relay, followed by food from Carrabba’s. McAllister Park, 13102 Jones Maltsberger Road 78247; www.runsignup.com carrabbas?remMeAttempt=.

Drum Corps International Southwestern Championship – Saturday, July 23, 1:30 p.m.

Watch the top junior drum and bugle corps compete. 100 Montana St. 78203; www.alamodome.com/events/detail/dci-2022.

Send your upcoming events to StoneOakInfo@gmail.com.

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REALTOR® REPORTS

Realtor® Reports Top Producing Realtor® Draws From Military Experiences

By Amy Morgan

C

harity Phillips, USAF Ret, GRI PMP® REALTOR®, has been Hall American Realty’s Top Producer for the past two years. Despite joining the brokerage only four years ago, she won their inaugural Platinum Award for topping the $8 million sales threshold in 2021 – a first for the office. She also was selected by clients and peers as a 5-Star Professional Rising Star.

A native of Greenville, South Carolina, Charity served with the U.S. Air Force for 22 years as a Dental Assistant. The last of her six moves brought her to Fort Sam Houston where she wrote dental assistant protocols for the entire service branch. When she retired in 2016, Charity felt called to homeschool her children (now 14 and 8) and began searching for the family’s “forever home.”

As Charity scoured the market, she realized her interest in real estate. Hall American Realty reaches greater San Antonio and beyond – from La Vernia to Boerne - Helotes and New Braunfels. Charity was encouraged to become a real estate professional and joined Hall American under the direction of Retired U.S. Air Force Colonel Craig Hall. She appreciates that his military background allows them to speak a common language and his commitment to training and mentoring helped her start her new career on the right foot.

Charity has a heart for military members like herself.

She’s familiar with the nuances of military transactions and helps proactively push the paperwork along to take care of clients to the best of her ability. While she doesn’t cater exclusively to the military community, Charity notes that a high percentage of her clients do have a military affiliation, perhaps because of word-ofmouth referrals.

“The military community in military city USA is tight knit,” she said. “We’ve been stationed together, and we trust each other.” Charity knows personally what it’s like to move as a military family – whether it’s packing up quickly or needing a termite inspection for a VA loan. “I know the ins and outs of what they are going through and can help them navigate through the milestones along the way,” she said.

Charity appreciates her real estate career has become a family affair. Her husband of 20 years, JP, runs and maintains their rental properties and supports their kids’ home schooling. She most enjoys helping clients realize the home they want. “I love that we go through a journey together as I help them find that perfect home,” she said. “I feel like every client becomes a friend.” Her goal is to meet or beat her Platinum Award total this year – and with the seller’s market going gangbusters, that’s not an unrealistic goal.

Charity Phillips, USAF Ret, GRI, PMP® REALTOR®, Hall American Realty Cell: 210-570-2462 cphillips@hallamericansa.com www.charityphillipsrealtor.com "Real Estate Made Simple!”

F R A N K PA R E D E Z S A L E S M A N AG ER/ VP O F M O R TG AG E L EN D I N G

I have helped many people achieve their dreams of homeownership. I’ll answer all your questions and outline all your options—empowering you as a buyer, while finding you your perfect loan. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, refinancing your current home or buying a second, my team and I can help you finance the home of your dreams.

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Applicant subject to credit and underwriting approval. Not all applicants will be approved for financing. Receipt of application does not represent an approval for financing or interest rate guarantee. Restrictions may apply, contact Guaranteed Rate for current rates and for more information. 1. Source: Loan Volume is based on Guaranteed Rate production report for funded loans 01/01/2021-12/31/2021 2. All data is sourced from Guaranteed Rate’s Client Satisfaction Surveys (2021) 3. Source: According to Scotsman Guide Top Mortgage Lenders 2020 Top Retail Volume List Frank Paredez NMLS ID: 1628244; TX - Licensed Guaranteed Rate, Inc.; NMLS #2611; For licensing information visit nmlsconsumeraccess.org. Guaranteed Rate Inc.; NMLS #2611; For licensing information visit nmlsconsumeraccess.org. Equal Housing Lender. Conditions may apply. 20220412-1336404

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