Dill Dinkers
Indoor Pickleball and Pro Shop Now Serving Stone Oak
By Amy Morgan
Pickleball – it’s the fastest growing American pastime since rollerbladers stormed the sidewalks in the 1990s. In case you are one of the few who’s not heard of it, the game is similar to tennis but played on a smaller court, involves a paddle rather than a racket and uses a perforated ball. While tennis courts are being reconfigured to accommodate pickleball’s smaller footprint at private clubs and neighborhoods parks, it has remained surprisingly difficult to find public court access close to Stone Oak.
That’s all about to change. This month, Dill Dinkers
Pickleball Club will open a brand new 15,000 squarefoot facility in Stone Oak. Located on Blanco Road north of 1604 next to the PGA pro shop in the space Tuesday Morning once occupied, Dill Dinkers offers five indoor courts, event space and a pro shop to provide the best public pickleball play experience, according to owners Brian and Karen Birdy. The interior has been carefully designed to enhance the game. Courts are 30 feet wide by 60 feet long, with plenty of space surrounding to give players room to serve and chase balls. Each court has been configured and individually fenced to keep the ball inside the court – eliminating cross traffic and stray balls that slow a game down. They also offer Pro-Cushion surfacing, which consists of a 6mm rubber pad under a sealing coat that enhances comfort. Pro-Cushion’s motto is, “Punish your opponents, not your body,” Brian enthused.
Carpeting between courts adds noise deafening capabilities and contributes to quieter play. Sport lighting designed for indoor pickleball provides just the right illumination without being overly harsh or disruptive. Black painted background and walls make balls pop.
“We control weather, lighting, temperature, wind, perimeter and surface,” Brian said. “These little changes make a big difference. This is a place you can learn to love to play pickleball!”
Photos by Albert Lopez Media
Photos by Albert Lopez Media
Brian and Karen were introduced to pickleball in 2020 when the sport took off during the pandemic. While they enjoyed playing outside initially, when Chicken & Pickle came to town, they realized they preferred indoor play, especially in San Antonio’s variable weather. As popularity has grown, it has become almost impossible to book a court in San Antonio.
“We realized our area was underserviced in pickleball courts both indoor and outdoor, and it sparked our entrepreneurial spirit,” Brian said. (The couple also run PMI Birdy Properties, founded by Brian’s father, Barry). Karen and Brian researched different pickleball clubs and were so impressed by Maryland-based company Dill Dinkers they purchased the company’s first franchise and regional developer licenses. The location on Blanco Road is just the first of what they hope will be many Dill Dinkers serving the pickleball-passionate public across Bexar County.
The Birdys have planned Dill Dinkers’ calendar to attract and appeal to players of all skill levels — from newbie to advanced. “The largest number of players are between a 1.5 and 3.0 skill ranking,” Brian said. “We want to create programming that allows everybody to have a place to go and have fun. Youth and beginners are the future of pickleball, and we are going to celebrate them!”
The Dill Dinkers’ team has recruited top local professionals to provide lessons, lead clinics and playtimes, and support structured open play by skill level.
“We’ve gone out of our way to find qualified certified instructors, both male and female, of different ages who speak English and/or Spanish,” Brain said. They’ll run clinics or open play like Friday night BYOB events where 30 participants can rotate in on the five courts and mingle in the Dill Dinkers’ event room that includes a kitchen and vending machines. The space, located adjacent to court five, makes Dill Dinkers the perfect venue for a birthday party, family gathering or corporate meet-up.
Clinics are planned to teach specific skills like dinking (from which the name, Dill Dinkers, originates), serves, or the third shot drop, Brian said. Leagues and open play will allow enthusiasts to continue with those of the same skill level as they advance.
Another bonus feature, play sight cameras located at the kitchen line and court back end allow players to record coaching, practice or play. Competitors can download and watch their video through the PlaySight app to see how to improve their game.
Players also use the app to book courts or sign up for events. Play is open to the public and membership is not required. Excited about pickleball? You can choose to purchase a membership, which offers half price play, free ball machine and booking privileges five days before nonmembers. Court costs are determined by a sliding scale that varies by time and popularity. Like golf, it will cost less to play off-peak. Members can play for as little as $3 for a non-prime hour, non-members $6.
Membership also provides a discount in the fully equipped pro shop, powered by Pickleball Central. Dill Dinkers will serve as the brick-and-mortar location of the largest online pickleball retailer, owned and run by the professional PPA and MLP pickleball organizations. While Pickleball Central will supply all the latest gear and merchandise, individual franchise owners can customize their stock. Karen is especially excited about selecting unique Blanco Market items with local flare.
Dill Dinkers Blanco Market location will open later this month, and all play will be free for the first week. Get updates by following them on Facebook or Instagram. Download the Dill Dinkers app so you’re ready to book your court or open play spot and take advantage of launch specials.
Photos by Albert Lopez Media
By Amy Morgan
ItCommunity Care
seems like there’s never enough time to fit in all the appointments needed to keep your loved ones on track. Thankfully, taking care of the family’s oral health just got easier for those living north of the city, as 7to7 Dental & Orthodontics has opened its newest office in Spring Branch, located at 427 Singing Oak, adjacent to Walmart.
One of the hallmarks of the local practice has been to offer treatment hours convenient to the patient. That’s why 7to7 Dental 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. No need to fight the Highway 281 traffic south to visit 7to7 Dental’s locations in Stone Oak or on TPC Parkway, now those living in Bulverde and Spring Branch will be able to enjoy a dental office right in their own backyard. Insured patients pay nothing out of pocket for Brighter Whiter cleanings and exams for adults, cleanings and exams for children, or second opinion evaluations.
7to7 Dental, grown over 17 years by co-owners
Justin Coke and Tiffany Winburn, D.M.D., identified Spring Branch as the location for the 10th office because of the continued growth of San Antonio’s northern neighborhoods.
Sierra Anderson, R.D.A., has been promoted from Stone Oak’s treatment coordinator to office manager at 7to7 Dental’s Singing Hills office. Sierra’s been excited to select the new staff who will join her and dentist Stormy Lopez, D.D.S. 7to7 Dental’s commitment to promoting from within means those who join their staff family now will likely grow into the practice’s next generation of leaders. Sierra herself came on board as a newly certified dental assistant eight years ago. She appreciates the close relationships she’s built with other members of the staff who also have remained with the practice long term.
Sierra reports that 7to7 Dental often hires
young graduates so they can be trained in 7to7 Dental’s customer service practices from the beginning. “It’s awesome!” she said. “People know 7to7’s values and culture before running an office.”
Individual office managers are trusted with the discretion to go above and beyond to ensure their patients have a great experience. Sierra noted offices have the availability to see a patient on the same day – and especially in an emergency situation. “And if we don’t take your insurance for some reason or you don’t have insurance, we make sure there are no obstacles to your receiving care,” Sierra said.
Part of 7to7 Dental’s customer focus includes removing financial barriers. Coordinators work with insurances, and 7to7 Dental also offers low-cost, in-house dental plans that can include the entire family. Covered patients receive free regular cleanings and general care, as well as reduced prices on fillings and orthodontics at three levels of membership.
The Singing Hills office officially opened May 1. The first 300 new patients will receive a free Sonicare electric toothbrush, Sierra reported. She’s also planning ways to partner with the community. 7to7 Dental is sponsoring the Smithson Valley Middle School dance team, and she hopes to schedule school visits to teach students about dental hygiene and oral health.
Come see why 7to7 Dental will be a great fit for your family.
7to7 Dental Opens Spring Branch Office
Community Calendar
Presented by Frost
Tacos and Tequila Festival – Saturday, May 10, 2 p.m.
Activities at the Walker Ranch Senior Center
Monday - Friday, 7 a.m. - 4 p.m. Hot meals served daily from 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. for qualifying seniors and their spouses. Exercise, field trips, bingo, loteria, movies, arts and crafts, free health and wellness screenings vary daily. 835 W. Rhapsody 78216; 210-207-5280.
Stone Oak Rotary Club – Tuesdays, noon -1 p.m. Guest speakers weekly. Dona Tota, 923 Loop 1604 W. #115 78232; www.stoneoaksarotary.org
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
Garden Run Club – Saturdays through May 31, 7 a.m. Run through the garden’s 38+ acres on a marked one-mile route before public hours. San Antonio Botanical Garden, 555 Funston Place 78209; www.sabot.org.
Festival de Animales –Saturday, May 3, Sunday, May 4, Celebrate animals, culture and conservation, including live performances. 9 a.m.-7 p.m. San Antonio Zoo, 3903 N. St. Mary’s St. 78212; www.sazoo.org
King William Fair – Saturday, May 3, 9 a.m. parade start. Fiesta festival with live entertainment on five stages, 200 + vendor booths selling handcrafted items, Kid’s Kingdom play area, petfriendly activities, food and beverage booths and a quirky parade. 122 Madison 78204; www.kwfair.org.
¡Loteria: Game On! at the Magik Theatre – May 3 - June 1. Dates and times vary. Bilingual live theater production allows the audience to experience the captivating world of Loteria. The Magik Theatre, 420 S. Alamo St. 78205; www.magiktheatre.org
20th annual Golf FORE a Cause Classic - Wednesday, May 7, 8:15 a.m. Shotgun Start. Play 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
The Wiz – Tuesday, May 6 - Sunday, May 11, times vary. This groundbreaking twist on The Wizard of Oz changed the face of Broadway. Majestic Theatre, 224 E. Houston 78205; www.majesticempire.com/events
Single Professionals Networking Meeting – Wednesday, May 7, 4 – 6 p.m. Join other 55+ widowed, divorced and single mature professionals for conversation, libations and food in a relaxed, social setting. Fish City Grill, 5311 N. Loop 1604 E. 78249; www.spn-sa.org
Spa Girl Tri – Saturday, May 10, 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
Tacos and Tequila Festival – Saturday, May 10, 2 p.m. Adult-only festival with locally crafted tacos, Margaritas, tequila tasting, world renowned Hip-Hop artists, exotic car showcase and Lucha Libre wrestling. Retama Park, 1 Retama Parkway, Selma 78154; www.tacosandtequilafestival.com/event/san-antonio.
Untraveled Worlds presented by the Children’s Chorus of San Antonio – Saturday, May 10, 4:00 p.m. Seven children’s ensembles embark on a musical odyssey. HEB Performance Hall at the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts, 100 Auditorium Circle 78205; www.tobincenter.org
Desperado Gravel Run & Ruck – Saturday, May 17, 7:30 a.m., 20k, 10k 5k Gravel Run and 20k,10k Ruck Challenge. Whether a seasoned runner, a weekend warrior or looking to test your endurance with ruck, this race has an adventure for you. Desperado Resort, 161 Fawn Drive, Boerne 78006; www.iruntexas.net/content/iruns-signature-races
Night Markets at Pearl – Wednesday, May 21, 5-9 p.m. Summer Market, 303 Pearl Parkway 78215; www.atpearl.com
Single Professionals Networking Meeting – Wednesday, May 21, 4-6 p.m. Join other 55+ widowed, divorced and single mature professionals for conversation, libations and food in a relaxed, social setting. Bourbon Street Seafood Kitchen, 2815 1604 W. 78232; www.spn-sa.org.
River Walk Memorial Day Artisan Show – Friday, May 23 - Monday, May 26. Experience the beauty of the River Walk and shop from more than 40 handmade artisan booths of pottery, textiles, jewelry, paintings and more. River Walk Extension, San Antonio Riverwalk 78205; www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com/events/artisan-shows.
Single Professionals Networking Meeting – Friday, May 30, 4-6 p.m. Join other 55+ widowed, divorced and single mature professionals for conversation, libations and food in a relaxed, social setting. Cover 3, 1806 1604 W. 78248; www.spn-sa.org
SASCA Autocross Event – Saturday, May 31, 6 a.m. – 3 p.m. Participants compete to drive through a mini road course made of cones sponsored by the San Antonio Sports Car Association. River City Community Church parking lot, 16765 Lookout Road 78154; www.sasca.org.
Diamond Dancer
Leads Varsity, Band Dance Teams
By Amy Morgan
Ronald Reagan High School senior Charlotte Cheslock cannot remember when she wasn’t dancing. She grew up watching from her stroller seat as her mother taught at Heather Stolle School of Dance and couldn’t wait to follow the family foot points. Her older sister (RHS class of 2021) also dances, and Charlotte started taking classes as soon as she turned two. She began assisting with the younger girls when she was in fifth grade and now is paid to substitute teach tap/ballet/jazz classes as well as demonstrate and lead stretches. Heather Stolle’s students will miss her smiling face and willing heart when Charlotte heads to Texas A&M in the fall, where she hopes to major in communications or business management. Like her mother before her, Charlotte plans to teach dance at a studio in College Station during college.
“Dance is my second home,” she said. “I’ve grown up doing it so much, it has become part of me.”
All that practice and training has allowed Charlotte to flourish at Reagan. She’s been part of the varsity Diamond Dancers for three years. The 22-person team continues to improve its expertise and consistently scores well in national competitions –this year finishing fifth in kick at the Universal Dance Association Nationals. She also has served as a Diamond Dancer social officer, planning events for the Big/Little mentorship program and special games or theme dress days to keep spirits high during the busy football and competition seasons. Charlotte developed her knack for planning as a class officer freshman and sophomore years where she gave schools tours, helped with freshman orientation and scheduled movie nights to build camaraderie.
As if Diamond Dancers weren’t busy enough, Charlotte also performed with the band dance group, which meant practicing four hours a day/five days a week in the summer before school even started. Every week beginning in early October there’s a new competition, she noted. They compete in both UIL and BOA, and Reagan’s team customarily advances to state. In November, Charlotte remembers they competed early on Friday morning then performed at the football game that night. This year she served as a band dance officer, which included teaching
choreography as well as administrative duties like managing the costumes and props and making sure dancers were where they needed to be on time. One of her favorite memories was her first stadium rehearsal for band dance her sophomore year. The transition from parking lot practice to the stadium was daunting, but she appreciated how the veteran dancers took her under her wing, a practice she learned to emulate when she became an upperclassman.
In addition to hours of practice both before and after school, many of the girls, Charlotte included, continue to fit in dance classes around their busy schedules to polish their skills.
Academically, Charlotte remembers how her AP Macro teacher, Mr. Desmarais, used music to help the class understand economics. She also appreciated his understanding her class absences due to dance commitments. Not surprisingly, given her years of experience teaching those younger, Charlotte volunteers to help with summer Vacation Bible School at Concordia Lutheran Church. Although Reagan’s dance programs will miss her influence and talent, Charlotte’ ready to put competition behind her next fall and enjoy dance just for the pleasure of moving in harmony to the music.
Reagan High School Senior
Pro Tips for a Teen-Approved Vacation
By Dionne Roberts
As we head into summer, we all know the real challenge of planning a vacation that gets five stars from the whole family, especially when you include teens who might rather be napping or texting with their friends.
Having a family vacation that resonates with teenagers can feel like unlocking a secret code, so here are 5 tips you get you headed down the right path.
1. Engage Your Kids from the Start. Involving your teens in the planning process is a win-win. Get out the maps, guidebooks and snacks and let them take charge. Choosing a few must-visit attractions or landmarks will pique their interest and excitement.
2. Pick a Destination with a Splash of Fun. While a relaxing beach vacation sounds tempting, teenagers thrive on hands-on experiences that engage their senses and challenge their minds. Whether it's soaring through the rainforest on a zip line, learning to surf or participating in a traditional dance workshop, immersive experiences will create memories your teenagers will cherish long after the vacation concludes.
3. Embrace Technology but Establish Boundaries. Encourage your teens to capture their experiences through photos, vlogging, or even creating travel blogs. Let them share their adventures with friends and family back home but also establish designated "tech-free" zones or hours to foster meaningful connections.
4. Discover the Local Culinary Delights. One surefire way to win over your teenagers is through their taste buds. Uncover unique dining experiences that cater to their palates. From immersive food tours in bustling markets to
cooking classes where they can whip up local delicacies, exploring a destination's culinary scene will leave them full and with plenty of Instagram-able pics!
5. Embrace Spontaneity. While meticulous planning is essential, leave room for spontaneity. Allow yourselves to get lost in the hidden alleys of a charming town, stumble upon a local festival or street performance, or take a detour to explore an off-the-beaten-path gem.
With these 5 tips in mind, planning a vacation that delights your teenagers and fosters family bonds is within reach!
Dionne Roberts, MCC, VTA Foster Perry Travel 888-878-5863 (888-TRVLTME) www.fosterperrytravel.com
Love and Loss
By Camp Bow Wow Staff
TWhen it’s Time to Say Goodbye
he aging process is difficult, whether in a human or furry family member. You might notice your once dark-coated pup now sporting a grey muzzle. He no longer trots on his walk with you, and he struggles to get out of his bed. While we wish our beloved pets could live with us forever, there’s a truth to the concept of dog years. The time comes for all of us when we look at our elderly pet and wonder when they’ll cross the rainbow bridge.
Your vet can help you discern what’s normal senior pet behavior and what’s a sign for concern. Wendy Brooks, DMV, addressed the issue in an article titled, “Assessing Quality of Life & Euthanasia in Companion Animals” for VeterinaryPartner.
“Some pets simply become debilitated by age or disease to a point where their life quality deteriorates to an unacceptable level,” she wrote.
“The euthanasia decision for a beloved pet may be one of the most difficult choices you must face during your entire lifetime. It is hard to make a lifeending determination like this for someone (a pet) who cannot tell you what his wishes are and yet a judgement call must be made.”
A common question is, “When is the right time?” A pet parent doesn’t want to lose their beloved companion a day to soon nor keep them in pain a day too long.
It is important to consult your vet if your pup starts evidencing medical issues, because some things can be treated with remarkable results. Antibiotics can clear up chronic bladder infections. Oral medication and a monthly shot to reduce inflammation can go a long way toward relieving arthritis pain and putting pep back in an elderly pup’s step.
But there comes a time when all the love, attention and medical intervention isn’t enough. Some criteria to consider: Is Fido resting comfortably? Does he seem free of pain and respond to you? Is he interested in food? Unfortunately, it’s hard to interpret every sign. As pack animals, dogs conceal weakness and pain until they are unable
to continue. One vet told a local family a dog will continue to eat, to try to go outside to the bathroom and wag their tail until they just can’t anymore.
Dr. Alice Villalobos, a veterinarian who developed Pawspice, created a scoring system called the HHHHHMM scale that evaluates a pet’s Hurt, Hunger, Hydration, Hygiene, Happiness, Mobility, and importantly, More good days than bad. When considering quality of life for a senior pup, it can help to physically mark a calendar with a smile/ frown to help keep track of trends.
As hard as it is, a decision must be made if your pup is suffering. Consult your vet for how best to make a loving transition for your furry family member. Some people prefer to remain with their pet until the end, others need to release their pup to the caring arms of the veterinary professionals. Know that either is ok. And give yourself (and your children and other pets) time to grieve. It’s completely normal to mourn the passing of your furry family member. It’s a significant loss, and it is going to hurt.
In honor of beloved Darcy Morgan, SNIPSA rescue who passed March 24, 2025.
MLB Top Recruit
By Amy Morgan
This week Johnson High School senior Kayson Cunningham will be honored with the 2024 USA Baseball Player of the Year Award. Named after the organization’s founding Executive Director/CEO, the Richard W. “Dick” Case Award recognizes USA Baseball’s top player. Notable winners of the award in the past are Alex Bregman of the Boston Red Sox (formerly of the Houston Astros), Trea Turner of the Philadelphia Phillies, Justin Smoak of the Toronto Blue Jays and Stephen Strasburg of the Washington Nationals.
Kayson was named high school baseball’s top national recruit this fall. He committed to play at the University of Texas, but he’s also eligible for the MLB draft in July – and as he’s ranked the number 6 draft prospect by the MLB, Austin may be denied. Kayson also was designated the top hitter in the 2025 class on an MLB Draft Spotlight. His father, Marco, played center field for the Kansas City Royals from 2000-2004.
$75/person
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