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CLUB LIFE
By Amy Morgan
Halloween Happenings
The Club At Sonterra’s Annual Spooktacular Delights Member Families
By Amy Morgan
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ctober means slightly cooler weather in San Antonio and the hint of fall festivities to come. The Club At Sonterra puts its best foot forward with beautiful seasonal decorations that make it ideal for holiday gatherings and meetings. And what’s better than a Spooktacular to celebrate Halloween, beloved by adults and children alike? Hundreds of members and their guests have looked forward to this family-friendly evening for more than a dozen years. On Wednesday, Oct. 28, The Club will go all out to transform the clubhouse into a Halloween event tailored for their families. The Director’s Room will feature an internal Haunted House, with students from Pieper High School’s wrestling team volunteering as the ghosts and ghouls hidden amongst it shadows. “Enter if you dare,” intoned General Manager Nathan Gillespy, adding the staff has arranged a flashlight signal to alert the actors to tone down the chills and thrills for more junior guests. The Terraces Room will be filled with traditional carnival games for all ages. The littlest goblins and princesses will enjoy a bean bag toss, fishing for prizes and balloon animals. Tennis and golf themed games and face painting can be found in the main ballroom, along with a show performed by a professional magician and illusionist. Everyone is encouraged to dress in costume – even The Club At Sonterra’s staff members look forward to bringing out their inner Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz (or maybe the Wicked Witch!) And it wouldn’t be a Halloween event without candy for everyone. Pieper Middle School’s NJHS members are on hand to pass out sweet treats and staff the games. A DJ will spin spooky tunes outside on the patio, weather permitting. Spooktacular patrons can find an appropriately themed buffet of renamed traditional favorites like green “toxic” Mac and Cheese, Mr. McChicken’s fingers, a Hamburgler junior burger and “Chef’s Remains” chopped prime rib sandwich.
“I love Halloween, it kicks the holiday season off,” enthused longtime member Cheryl Meredith. She and her husband, Vick, have lived within Sonterra’s gates for almost 30 years. Now their three children and six grandchildren (ages 12 – 1) have joined them as members and have enjoyed the Spooktacular for years. Cheryl and Vick volunteer to help with the games for the pre-school set – setting up bowling pins or tic tac toe bags and handing out candy. Last year their five-year-old granddaughter was having so much fun she didn’t want to leave, Cheryl reported. “It’s a great time,” she added, “and it gives the kids a chance to wear their costume again.” “One of the best things about the Spooktacular is that the whole staff dresses in costume,” she continued. Claudia, one of the servers in the 19th Hole, was dressed as a witch, and her entire face was green! “It looked like a Hollywood makeup artist had done her makeup! I was so impressed,” Cheryl said. She also noted that Membership Director Debbie Gonzaba puts her heart and soul into the event. The celebration will be even more special for Cheryl and Vick this year, as their youngest grandchild will celebrate his first birthday just prior to the Spooktacular and will be eager to toddle after his older cousins. So, if you are looking to skip the scare and join some low-key, local fun, call Debbie at 210-483-4292 to schedule a tour and learn how a membership at The Club At Sonterra might be a great fit for your entire family.
901 Sonterra Boulevard San Antonio, TX 78258
(210) 496-1560
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www.clubatsonterra.com
Have You Ever Wondered What It's Really Like to Belong to the Club at Sonterra?
For many Stone Oak residents, the Club at Sonterra is one of those places they've driven past hundreds of times—but never experienced. Beyond the beautiful golf courses, you'll find: • Championship golf • Active tennis and pickleball communities • Fitness and wellness programs • Resort-style pool • Exceptional dining • Family events and social activities • A welcoming community that many members call their second home Whether you're looking for golf, tennis, great dining, or simply a place to connect with friends and neighbors, it may be worth taking a closer look. Connect with the Debbie Gonzaba, Director of Sales, for a personal tour and conversation about whether the Club is right for you. Call 210-483-4292 or email dgonzaba@clubatsonterra.com
DENTAL DIGEST
Crucial Catch 7to7 Dental & Orthodontics Supports One of Their Own During Cancer Awareness Month By Amy Morgan
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t’s a crucial catch. The American public has been recognizing cancer screening and support for those diagnosed in October for decades. The NFL even allows players to sport pink cleats and gloves to boost awareness. 7to7 Dental & Orthodontics is no stranger to this practice. Traditionally they’ve “pinked out,” their 12 offices, changing scrubs, gloves, lighting and equipment to pink and offering a variety of creative and fun prizes and games to promote giving among staff and patients alike. This year, however, the deadly disease has struck close to home. The husband of Mary Fuentes, D.D.S., one of 7to7 Dental’s dentists, has been battling a rare cancer for more than a year. Not only has Dr. Fuentes juggled work as Managing Dentist at the Leon Springs office as she cares for Cody, she’s also been doing the lion’s share of parenting the couple’s two small daughters, just one and four when he first became ill. Dr. Fuentes' family created a GoFundMe link, https://gofund.me/367434fa6, which directly benefits them rather than 7to7 Dental contributing to a national cancer organization this October. The offices will still be festooned with pink balloons and streamers to remind people of the reason for the fundraiser. Everyone who donates will be entered to win a pair of Spurs tickets, and those who donate more than $100 will receive a pink hat or sweater sporting the 7to7 Dental logo, said Director of Marketing Travis DeZuba. Cody’s diagnosis journey started with numbness and tingling in his extremities, which presented like a neurological condition, masking the fact that he really was suffering with an unusual presentation of blood cancer. By January 2026, his condition had so deteriorated that the once-strapping firefighter was wheelchair bound and couldn’t even hold a soda can to his lips. However, his long history of service and friendship paid dividends, as many helped Dr. Fuentes retrofit their home, removing doors and building a platform in their shower to accommodate Cody’s accessibility needs. A long-term Lieutenant with Fire Station 32, Cody followed in the footsteps of his cousin and father, who served as a firefighter for 40 years. He’s been able to continue to serve on light duty instructing
EMT students at the Academy as his health permits during his illness. As you consider cancer awareness, Dr. Fuentes wants people to be aware of the connection between the disease and firefighters. “People in the fire department have very high rates of cancer because they inhale a lot of dangerous chemicals,” she warned. Dr. Fuentes has been on staff with 7to7 Dental for seven years. She originally joined the team because of the way the practice gives back to the community. Also, the organization was “small enough for people to know each other and big enough that there were opportunities for growth,” she said. During this journey, she has felt “so appreciated. Everyone throughout 7to7 has reached out to check on me and brought me meals when it was hard for me to take care of my family. Dr. Winburn even came and covered for me so I could attend an oncology appointment for a few hours and didn’t have to take off another whole day. “I’ve been very fortunate and blessed,” Dr. Fuentes continued. “I never felt like I was alone.” Since 7to7 Dental first opened its doors in San Antonio 18 years ago, their mission has been to provide dental care during days and times that are convenient to the patient. That’s why 7to7 Dental offices are open from 7 a.m.- 7 p.m., seven days a week, for dentistry for the whole family and emergencies. Insured patients pay nothing out of pocket for Brighter Whiter cleanings and exams for adults and children or second opinion evaluations. Come see why 7to7 Dental is a practice with a heart for the community.
Community Calendar Presented by Frost
Jazz in the Garden – Friday, Oct. 9, 6:30-9 p.m. Live jazz performance by Audra Menconi Trio & Friends in the peaceful atmosphere of the Japanese Tea Garden. Food and drinks available. Japanese Tea Garden, 3853 N. St. Mary’s St. 78212; www.saparks.org. Battle of Hillotes – Saturday, Oct. 10, 13.1, 10K, or 5K. Staggered starts 7:31-8:35 a.m. Race 3 of 4 in the Alamo Beer Series Challenge. Old Town Helotes, 14391 Old Bandera Road, Helotes 78023; www.scallywompus.com. Journey – Final Frontier Tour – Saturday, Oct. 10, 7:30 p.m. A special evening with Journey. Frost Bank Center, 1 Frost Bank Center Drive 78219; www.frostbankcenter.com.
Garden Run Club – Saturdays through October, 7-8 a.m. Enjoy the morning while running through the Garden’s beautiful 39 acres on a marked one-mile route. San Antonio Botanical Garden, 555 Funston Place 78209; www.sabot.org.
Foreigner – Celebrating Fifty Years, Tuesday, Oct. 13, 8 p.m. Iconic group celebrates fifty years of their music. Majestic Theatre, 224 E. Houston St. 78205; www.majesticempire.com/events.
Aileen Boone is hosting a Brave book reading at the Encino library – Sunday, Oct. 11, from 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. for children ages 5-10. 2515 E. Evans Road 78259. Please RSVP by emailing pc3165@protonmail.com or call 618-946-3897.
Ronald Reagan High School Theatre presents Almost, Maine Wednesday-Saturday, Oct. 14, 15, 16, 7 p.m., Oct. 17, 1 p.m. Nine short plays that explore love and loss in a remote, mythical almost-town. Reagan Stage Black Box Theater, Ronald Reagan High School, 19000 Ronald Reagan 78258; www.reaganstage.org.
Zoo Boo! – through Friday, Oct. 31, 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. Wear your costume to this fun, non-scary Halloween event for the entire family. Free trick or treating the last hour daily. San Antonio Zoo, 3903 N. St. Mary's St. 78212; www.sazoo.org.
An Evening with Celtic Thunder 2026 – Thursday, Oct. 15, 7:30 p.m. Men from Scotland and Ireland who share Celtic heritage perform traditional and international hits. Majestic Theatre, 224 E. Houston St. 78205; www.majesticempire.com/events.
Uhlandfallfest – Saturdays and Sundays, through Nov. 1, 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. Family friendly pumpkin patch and festival featuring musical performances, games, artisan market, seasonal foods and beverages. Historic farmstead 25 miles south of Austin, 2400 Cotton Gin Road, Uhland 78640; www.uhlandfallfest.com.
Rossini’s Cinderella – Thursday, Oct. 15, Saturday, Oct. 17, 7:30 p.m. The opening show of the 2026 OPERA San Antonio season, this Cinderella is a charming new production from Lyric Opera of Kansas City. Tobin Center for the Performing Arts, HEB Performance Hall, 100 Auditorium Circle 78205; www.tobincenter.org.
Encino Park Market Day – Saturday, Oct. 3, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 42nd annual event presented by the Encino Park Women’s Club includes more than 80 vendors, food trucks and local school entertainment. Encino Park Community Center, 1923 Encino Rio 78259; EPmarketdays@gmail.com.
Dog Day at the Zoo – Sunday, Oct. 18, 9 a.m.- 6 p.m. Bring your pup for a day of adventure, tasty treats and frightfully fun Halloween festivities. San Antonio Zoo, 3903 N. St. Mary's St. 78212; www.sazoo.org.
If You Give a Mouse a Cookie – Saturday, Oct. 3-Sunday, Oct. 25, times vary. Mouse may be adorable, but he’s full of questions. And energy. Jodi Davidson’s adaptation is a mayhem and mishap-filled joyride for all audiences. The Magik Theatre, 420 S. Alamo St. 78205; www.magiktheatre.org. The R&B Tour – Monday, Oct. 5, 7 p.m. Starring Usher Raymond and Chris Brown. Alamodome, 100 Montana St. 78203; www.alamodome.com/events. The Sound of Music – Tuesday, Oct. 6 - Sunday, Oct. 11, times vary. The iconic tale of a spirited nun who, by following her heart, learns to climb every mountain. Majestic Theatre, 224 E. Houston St. 78205; www.majesticempire.com/events. Fall Home and Garden Show – Friday, Oct. 9, noon-8 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 10, 10-8 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 11, 11 a.m.- 8 p.m. More than 200 booths featuring the latest products and services for home and landscape to help you make your dream home a reality. Alamodome, 100 Montana St. 78203; www.alamodome.com.
30th Annual Junior League Olé Market – Friday, Oct. 22 - Sunday, Oct. 25, times vary. Holiday market featuring activities and 75+ merchant booths. Proceeds benefit 35 non-profit community partners. San Antonio Shrine Auditorium, 901 North Loop 1604 W. 78232; www.jlsa.org. 8th Annual Day of the Dead River Parade – Friday, Oct. 23, 7 p.m. Enjoy decorated floats and costumed riders celebrating life and loved ones in conjunction with a Day of the Dead festival in La Villita. San Antonio Riverwalk 78205; www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com. San Antonio Burger Bash – Saturday, Oct. 24, 12-4 p.m. The city’s best burger joints come together for one delicious afternoon of friendly competition, incredible food and fun. St. Paul Square, 1160 E. Commerce St. 78205; www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com. Dia de los Muertos – Tuesday, Oct. 27- Tuesday, Nov. 3, throughout the day. The Pearl comes alive with larger-than-life altars, art, live music and procession. Pearl Park, 312 Pearl Parkway 78215; www.atpearl.com. Send your upcoming events to StoneOakInfo@gmail.com.
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PET TIP
in Your Dog at Camp AtheDay Life By Camp Bow Wow Staff
H
ave you ever wondered what your dog's day looks like while they are staying at camp? You’ll be happy to know our professional staff members have carefully planned your precious pup’s routine to balance activity, rest, enrichment and personal attention. From the moment they arrive, our goal is to help every pup feel comfortable, cared for and right at home and for their human family members to be able to leave them with complete peace of mind. Each morning begins with a warm welcome from our team. After settling in, dogs enjoy breakfast, if that’s the usual way they start their day, followed by time to stretch their legs and investigate their surroundings. Your pup will continue to be included in activities that match his personality and comfort level throughout the day. Some love making new friends during supervised play, while others are happiest exploring at a slower pace or spending extra time with our staff. Every experience is designed to keep your furry family member engaged, active, and happy while ensuring they always feel safe and supported. Enrichment is an important and fun part of life at camp. Our enrichment activities are designed to exercise more than your pup’s body; they help keep his mind, senses, and natural curiosity active as well. For pups who enjoy a challenge, agility activities give them the opportunity to work their way through obstacle courses featuring ramps, weave poles, tunnels, and other fun challenges with a tasty treat waiting at the finish! Agility encourages dogs to think, problem-solve and build confidence while getting their bodies moving. Puzzle activities offer a different kind of challenge. Dogs get to put their noses to work, keeping their scent skills sharp while using their brains to figure out how to find hidden treats and solve engaging puzzles. It’s a mental exercise that taps into a dog’s natural instincts and curiosity. And sometimes enrichment is simply about having a whole lot of fun! Our themed activities bring extra excitement to camp with experiences like foam parties with fellow campers, Pawcasso arts and crafts and silly games built around special themes. These activities give
pups new things to see, smell, explore and enjoy while making their stay memorable. After all that fun, one of the most important parts of your pup’s day is something many pet parents might not expect — rest. After spending time playing, exploring and interacting with new human and canine friends, they need time to relax and recharge. Just like children after a fun-filled day, dogs benefit from quiet breaks that allow both their minds and bodies to recover. Have you noticed how much time your pups spend crashed on the couch or sprawled on the carpet at home? These moments of rest help prevent overstimulation and leave dogs feeling refreshed, content and ready to enjoy the next activity. As the day winds down, the pace becomes calmer. Dogs settle into a relaxing evening routine before bedtime, helping them feel secure and comfortable to sleep through the night in their secure area to prepare for another day of fun. When your dog stays at camp with us, they are not simply waiting for your return. They are spending their days in a caring environment where their health, happiness, and comfort are always our priority. Of course, the best part of every stay is reunion day. There is nothing quite like seeing a happy pup greet the people they love most. Our greatest goal is that when you pick them up, they leave with a wagging tail and happy memories.
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
Handoff Helper
Reagan Head Drum Major Keeps the Band’s Heartbeat By Amy Morgan
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onald Reagan High School senior student Bryson Bodenhamer is no stranger to responsibility. As head drum major of Reagan’s award-winning band, he literally creates its pulse as he beats the tempo with his foot on the metronome pedal. If he loses focus for even a second, all 350+ marching musicians will misstep. Off the field, Bryson works with the directors to keep the program organized, running band camp, communicating practice and sectional times and band-wide events like picture day. He also makes sure new freshmen are forming relationships within their sections. He considers his position “very demanding but very rewarding.” Some of Bryson’s favorite Reagan memories revolve around the band’s travel experiences. Last year, Reagan’s band attended the International Music Convention in Chicago. Bryson remembers the city being decorated for the holidays and the temperature “too cold to snow!” He enjoyed the opportunity to see the observatory at Willis Tower and the Shedd Aquarium. “It was very special,” he said, surpassing even the group’s trip to Europe his freshman year. The Chicago trip came on the heels of the band’s Grand Nationals competition in Indianapolis in November, where they placed sixth in the nation – the highest designation they’ve achieved at the invitation-only competition since 2005. The juxtaposition of two major travel events and the band’s normal fall marching season meant Bryson and his peers were rehearsing every day. Bryson taught himself to play clarinet in the eighth grade at Bush Middle School. He also plays in Reagan’s Varsity concert band, the wind ensemble and RHS Symphony Orchestra, where he fills the spot at piccolo if the music calls for one. He said learning a new instrument is just a matter of training your ear to listen for the notes and balancing your sound with the people around you in the section and the band. Fall 2026 added a new wrinkle to Bryson’s leadership duties. All three of the band’s directors were strangers to Reagan, including Head Director Connor Vaughn, who came from the North Dallas suburb of McKinney. In addition to helping the new band directors acclimate to Reagan, Bryson spent time last summer working as a camp counselor at Camp Balcones Springs on Lake Travis. This was his first year counseling at the Christian camp where he attended as a camper for the past four years. Bryson instructed in kayak and canoe as well as teaching swimming and fishing – activities in which he’s
well versed due to spending his childhood on waterfront property in Oregon. He fondly remembers being able to pilot a small boat just down river to his grandparents’ house as a pre-teen, noting he could “swim before I could walk.” His grandparents and mother – all physicians – played a large role in Bryson’s goal to become a doctor himself. As his grands owned a rheumatology and veterinary clinic, he was playing with toy stethoscopes and anatomy models instead of trucks and balls like other boys. His mom now works as an emergency room physician at North Central Baptist Hospital. Bryson has taken advantage of NEISD’s health career classes and became a certified nursing assistant (CNA) his junior year – a feat that required 300 lecture and 40 clinical hours. He passed his state licensing exam in March 2026 but must wait almost a year until he turns 18 to be hired. He hopes to join his mother at North Central as an ER technician in spring 2027. Bryson plans to attend Texas A&M and major in neuroscience before applying to medical school. In his free time, he’s training to run the San Antonio Marathon this November, following a successful ½ marathon finish in spring of 2026. While he admits the hills in Stone Oak are no joke, he loves to throw his tennis shoes on and go for a run. At 17, Bryson jokes that he’s already addicted to coffee.