www.78209magazine.com
January 2016
209 78209 78 MAGAZINE
NOTE-ABLE '09ER
MUSICIAN LAZARO GARCIA JOY CURNUTT & PEGGY CALHOUN OF
PROFESSIONAL ESTATE SALES TERRELL HILLS LOOKS TO THE FUTURE LOCAL TRENDS IN HOME RENOVATIONS
CONTENTS January 2016
8
Editor’s Letter/Contributors
10
Business Profile: Professional Estate Sales
14
Profile: Musician Lazaro Garcia
18
Home: Cultures Blend Beautifully
24
Neighborhood News
28
Community Calendar
30
Alamo Heights Chamber of Commerce
32
Ideas for Living
36
Wellness
38
Fitness in ‘09
40
School News
46
Church Directory
48
The Buzz
50
Restaurant Guide
54
Wine & Dine
56
Arts & Entertainment Calendar
58
Outside 78209
60
On The Market
64
Police Blotter
66
Vintage View
78209 MA GA ZIN E
January 2016
Publisher J. MICHAEL GAFFNEY Editor NICOLE GREENBERG Copy Editor KATHRYN COCKE Contributors ERNIE ALTGELT, LAUREN BROWNING, JOHN BLOODSWORTH, KRISTIN CADE LESLIE FOLEY, PAMELA LUTRELL, EDMOND ORTIZ, KRISTIN MEARS, KRISTEN PETERSON, AL RENDON, JANICE THACH, ELIZABETH WARBURTON Graphic Design TAMARA HOOKS, MARIA JENICEK
COVER PHOTO COURTESY OF THE MCNAY
www.78209magazine.com
Advertising Sales STEVEN COX, CINDY JENNINGS, MADELEINE JUSTICE Administration & Customer Service NANCY A. GAFFNEY Social Media RACHELLE PALASOTA New Media JANICE THACH Printed By Shweiki Media, San Antonio, TX For Advertising information: (210) 826-5375 email: info@78209magazine.com
78209 MAGAZINE is published monthly by PixelWorks Corporation (Publisher). Reproduction in any manner in whole or part is prohibited without the express written consent of the Publisher. Material contained herein does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher or its staff. 78209 MAGAZINE reserves the right to edit all materials for clarity and space and assumes no responsibility for accuracy, errors or omissions. 78209 MAGAZINE does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertisements or editorial, nor does the Publisher assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear. Articles and photographs are welcome and may be submitted to our offices to be used subject to the discretion and review of the Publisher. All real estate advertising is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968, which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an intention to make such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Printed in the U.S.A. Copyright ©2015 Pixelworks Corporation.
Published by 8603 Botts Lane, San Antonio, TX 78217 • FAX 210-826-2856 • www.pixelworkscorporation.com
6 | January 2016
CONTRIBUTORS
78209 Photo By MARIE LANGMORE
EDITOR’S LETTER
FROM THE EDITOR Hello, 78209ers!
Happy New Year! When planning this issue, the 78209 staff and I were putting the finishing touches on our holiday publication, and the frenzy of deadlines and printed material made for a dizzying array of clutter. Clearing our desks for the New Year conjured up visions of finally getting more organized, simplifying our approach to work and to living in 2016. It is exciting to imagine the wonderful milestones and memories we hope will fall into place this year. Beginning anew can be easy and also a challenge, and finding inspiration for living a healthier life are easy in a community like 78209. Our friends Peggy Calhoun and Joy Cornutt of Professional Estate Sales became the natural choice to spotlight in our business profile since they help people shed personal items that no longer fit their new life goals. For many of us, simplifying our life and getting a boost in the health department is on our list of goals for the year. Our health writer, Pamela Lutrell, shares the importance of hydropower — keeping hydrated by drinking lots of water. And fitness writer Kristen Peterson introduces us to local personal trainer Tom Trevino, whose inspiring weight loss journey many years ago helped him gain confidence to simplify his life through his approach to nutrition. While getting yourself in shape for the New Year may be on your bucket list, perhaps getting your home in shape is as well. If so, we offer trends for giving your home an updated look with our ideas for living feature. And don’t miss our home feature story to gain a glimpse of the exquisite interior design that graces this issue’s ’09 residence. Whatever your goals are for the New Year, making time for yourself, your friends and family is important. Ernie Altgelt’s profile story of accomplished musician Lazaro Garcia spotlights a true talent whose hard work, tenacity and passion for family and music make him a true star, not only in San Antonio but throughout the country. After feasting on holiday fare, we take on our few weeks of winter with Lauren Browning’s scoop on soup with her overview of’09 savory soups that warm our souls.
Nicole Greenberg Nicole@78209magazine.com LETTERS TO THE EDITOR / SUBSCRIPTIONS / FOLLOW US To contact Editor: email nicole@78209magazine.com To view us online: visit 78209magazine.com To Subscribe - $15.95 (one year) Conact us at: 8603 Botts Lane, San Antonio, Texas 78217 or (210) 826-5375 Follow us on Facebook and Instagram
8 | January 2016
Edmond Ortiz is a lifelong San Antonian who keeps discovering new things about his hometown every day. He studied mass communications at San Antonio College and Texas State University. His local journalism career started in the mid-1990s, and most recently he served in both editing and reporting positions with Prime Time Newspapers, a former group of community weeklies, and the San Antonio Express-News. He has been with organizations such as the Society of Professional Journalists and the National Association of Hispanic Journalists. An animal lover and a sports fan, Edmond enjoys being with family and friends, hiking and watching the newest sci-fi TV show.
Leslie Foley, columnist for The Buzz and Outside 78209, was born and raised in Oklahoma, where she earned a public relations and journalism degree from Oklahoma State. She moved to Texas over 30 years ago and has made it her home ever since. Aside from her work with 78209 Magazine, Leslie works full time with the Ronald McDonald House as their capital campaign coordinator. She enjoys the opportunity to stay connected to people, events and happenings across the city. In her free time, she likes spending time in her gardens, visiting with friends and family, photographing events, catching a Spurs game or simply relaxing by watching an old classic movie.
Peggy Calhoun, left and Joy Curnutt of Professional Estate Sales
PROFESSIONAL ESTATE SALES AN ‘09 COMPANY THAT REALLY KNOWS HOW TO “CLEAN HOUSE”
By ERNIE ALTGELT
Photography by ELIZABETH WARBURTON
After years of treasured familial acquisition, situations change. Whether through death or simply a desire to downsize, involved individuals can find themselves faced with the accumulation of decades that now needs to be appropriately dispensed with in a financially satisfactory manner. Hence, the “estate sale.”
For the past 10 years, committed sisters Joy Curnutt and Peggy Calhoun, through their respected, sensitive and highly specialized company, Professional Estate Sales, have shouldered the burden of this logistically and at times emotionally difficult undertaking, freeing countless clients from what can be an incredibly draining process. But that’s just what they so ably do. Why, you might just say these women really do know how to “clean house!” 10 | January 2016
Established in 2007, Professional Estate Sales, oddly enough, grew out of a thriving Web-based business the sisters developed. As Joy remembers, “We sold more than 6,500 items via the Internet and were doing quite well.” Both obviously savvy in retail, they came to the attention of a local banker who had a client that was moving and needed help liquidating his many possessions. When asked if they would be interested in taking on the project, the undaunted duo, though surprised, quickly accepted. And after that acceptance, boy, did they liquidate. Once the dust settled (and was swept from the now empty house), not only was the banker impressed with the tactical wonderment of getting rid of “everything” so painlessly, but his client got a nice check too. It truly was a win-win-win for all.
After the success of that first effort, more requests inevitably started rolling in. So encouraged by the continued interest in their services, Joy and Peggy decided to go full time, aptly named their new business Professional Estate Sales and — 450-plus events later — have never regretted the decision.
Pictured above: Items being identified for sale, appraised and assigned appropriate values.
Pictured left: The owners of Professional Estate Sales are sisters, Joy Curnutt and Peggy Calhoun. Peggy is a member of the International Society of Appraisers. The sisters can successfully sell furnishings, fine jewelry, guns, works of art and more.
Today, the fully insured, licensed and bonded company has a core staff of 25 individually gifted and talented team members, each bringing special areas of expertise to the assignments. And although every sale is unique, Peggy and Joy have developed a system that can be adapted to accommodate any situation. Basically, after an initial meeting with the client, which can be a private individual, trust department, CPA or even a law firm, a contract is produced, followed by the identification of items slated for sale. With research, appropriate values are then assigned to those items. In that regard, Peggy, who is a member of the International Society of Appraisers, relates, “We’ve had instances where a particular possession was included, that after a little detective work on our part, proved to be quite valuable – and the client never knew it!”
One such instance involved an old painting that was held from the sale after Professional Estate Sales ascertained that it was by a noted American artist. Peggy and Joy ultimately contacted Christie’s in New York, where, to the client’s delight, the picture went at auction for an impressive $161,000! The sisters are also adept in direct marketing other special goods, including fine jewelry, guns, other works of art and even cars.
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After determining what’s to be offered at the estate sale and fair-market pricing has been assigned, the event is promoted. While word-ofmouth and the company’s reputation are instrumental, Peggy also produces a weekly comprehensive and photographically illustrated newsletter with a subscription list comprising 5,500 eager buyers. As the sale doors open – usually on a Thursday – a crowd will undoubtedly be waiting. And once underway, sales are conducted professionally with numerous knowledgeable staffers assisting with everything from merchandise information to arranging for delivery. By Saturday, if there’s anything left, the remaining items are generally, and generously, given to a charity. Afterwards, when all is done, both sisters acknowledge, “We promise our clients three things – a check, an empty, swept house and a tax receipt for donated items.”
Over the years, Joy and Peggy have become noted for their sensitive handling of estate property distribution. For many, needing an estate sale is a happy time heralding new adventures and lifestyles, but for others, the circumstances can be sad. Old age, death, financial setbacks and other less pleasant situations may dictate the need. Whatever, Professional Estate Sales offers not only a competent, affordable, turnkey service, but often of equal importance, a compassionate understanding that minimizes any distress generated. And based on the countless “thank you” letters received, this is greatly appreciated.
So, when you need to profitably empty the old homestead, or even liquidate an entire business, in 78209 or across Texas, Peggy and Joy’s Professional Estate Sales is the go-to company because they really do know how to, from start to finish, top to bottom and A to Z, “clean house!”
12 |January 2016
78209 PROFILE
“NOTE-ABLE” ‘09ER
Accomplished Musician Lazaro Garcia
By ERNIE ALTGELT Photography by JANICE THACH
14 |January 2016
teaching and performing in our very own backyard (and certainly beyond) for eager and appreciative audiences all seeking a taste of that spicy SA sound. Why, one just might say that musically Larry truly is one of the ZIP’s more “note-able” residents. But if you’ve ever heard him, you already knew that.
Born in 1944 on a working farm near New Braunfels to a loving, accordion-playing father and equally nurturing mother, Larry was the youngest of his 10 siblings. With two uncles who were adept at the guitar and seven older brothers who also ably played instruments (mostly accordions), it’s no surprise that Larry, true to the Torres Garcia name, quickly took up music as well. Together, the family would play the traditional songs, trading tips and advice that further enhanced their considerable individual abilities. The Torres Garcia clan was always popular at area parties. Eventually, several brothers became so accomplished that they went on to successful professional careers. Larry was one of these. His first on-stage performance was in 1955, when the 11-year-old wowed the crowd with his accordion.
Sadly, in 1959 with his father’s passing, financial hardship required that even the youngest Torres Garcia leave home. Larry, at age 14, headed to San Antonio, and 78209, to live with his older brother. Before heading south, the teenager had attended school, advancing through the seventh grade. Once more or less on his own, and encouraged by his considerable musical abilities, Larry, in search of an earned income, opted to put his academic education “temporarily” on hold and turn pro.
For 12 years he traveled and performed with a number of different bands, ably playing accordion and drums. All told, he visited 23 states, performed in hundreds of different venues, spent months on the road and did quite well monetarily. And remarkably, as busy as he was during this time, he was still able to earn his G.E.D. and later even attend San Antonio College.
Culturally speaking, the greater Alamo City area has long been recognized for its unique and spirited fusion of exceptional musical expression. Over time, thanks to the inevitable mixing of Spanish, German, Mexican and Polish influences, a delightfully distinct audible flavor came into being that many simply refer to today as “puro San Antonio.” Colorful mariachi, polka-driven conjunto, sensuous Tejano and steamy salsa bands all provide a homegrown beat that is enjoyed by natives and visitors alike.
Perhaps surprising to some, one paramount practitioner of all these related varieties, for the vast majority of his long, gifted and productive life, makes 78209 his home. Yep, local resident Lazaro (Larry) Torres Garcia, a respected veteran accordionist, drummer, vocalist and all-around musician’s musician, continues creating, recording,
But by 1972 Larry found himself happily married with five adored children to support. Wishing to spend more time at home with his family, he signed on with the 78209-based Alamo Cement Company. He spent 34 productive years working full time at the quarry. During that tenure, however, entertaining and performing were always close at hand. On evenings and weekends, Larry directed several well-respected Tejano and conjunto bands, singing and usually playing the drums or accordion in each. He also found the time to “sit in” with numerous other groups that specialized in everything from rock, oldies and salsa to country and western.
Following retirement from Alamo Cement in 2006, Larry was free to devote more of his energies to his family and making music. Today, after 60 years as a professional, the tireless talent still performs (often accompanied by his singing wife, Janie) at events and private parties. He heads his own conjunto and mariachi bands and can be found regularly entertaining at weddings, anniversaries, birthdays and other celebrations. Most recently, backed by his latest seasoned quartet, Grupo Experiencia, Larry cut an exceptional CD (Como Quisiera) that “went to number five” on a national Internet musical program broadcasting out of California.
And, the next time you hear a tight riff on the accordion or a little harmonious Mariachi, smile and think of your “note-able” neighbor Lazaro (Larry) Torres Garcia because, it just might be him!
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78209 09 - LIVES
ADELANTE PARTY
Adelante Boutique celebrated their 40th Anniversary on December 4 with an Open House and a VIP party.
SanAntonioBoutiques.com 16 | January 2016
78209
H OM E
FAMILY ROOM Open and airy, the family room mixes traditional furnishings with collected pieces of Asian art in a Zen-like setting. SITTING AREA Floor-to-ceiling iron-cased glass panels allow light to flow into the family room, where minimal furnishings bring tranquility to the setting.
Cultures Blend Beautifully In Traditional Home By JOHN BLOODSWORTH
Photography By AL RENDON
With Southern gentility and an Asian influence, Beth and Will Knight have transformed their Terrell Hills home into a respite that graciously welcomes guests in rooms adhering to the philosophy that form follows function.
Working with Julie Bradshaw and Crystal Romero of Bradshaw Designs, the Knights made significant changes to update the home and create a modern, Asian-inspired space. The previous kitchen, which felt closed in and claustrophobic, became an open and inviting area featuring an expansive island with an exquisite Sea Pearl quartzite stone countertop. By removing some of the old wall cabinets, the sink wall became an artistic composition of modern, clean-lined lighting and Sea Pearl stone framing the window.
Deep drawers and a floor-to-ceiling custom-built cabinet wall create ample storage space, giving the area open vistas to the dining and family rooms. A workspace and entertaining area invite friends and family to a rectangular island of Sea Pearl quartzite stone. “Now we can have someone linger at the island while serving tea and still be engaged in conversation,” commented Will.
Growing up in Georgia – as did wife Beth – Will recalls his parents’ bedroom had doors opening to the backyard with vistas of greenery. The interior spaces were reworked to feature large French doors overlooking the tranquil pool and expansive lush grounds. KITCHEN Interlocking handmade terra cotta tiles by Tabarka add visual interest to the backsplash set with a custom stainless steel vent hood and six-burner gas range. A contemporary teapot and matching teacups entice guests to join in casual conversation around the expansive island featuring Sea Pearl quartzite. The sink wall becomes an artistic composition with Sea Pearl framing the window and Asian-inspired sconces. KITCHEN NICHE A built-in microwave and quartzite counter offer food preparation panache to the people-centric setting.
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DINING ROOM Made from a pair of antique doors found in a Hutong, the dining table and Bauhaus–style dining chairs were custom made for the Knights in Beijing. Purchased in Vietnam, a diptych painting portrays a group of men coming to the local market to search for their future wives. ENTRY HALL An original oil painting of their daughter with a red parasol is by a Chinese artist. . “The artist was so enamored with our daughter’s porcelain skin,” said Beth. LIVING ROOM A child’s antique horse puppet from Laos rests on an Asian-influenced console.
22 |January 2016
Soaring ceilings and walls washed in neutral white contrast with the massive six-light iron lanterns and iron window casings. An original mantel once held ornately carved designs. The stone was blasted, removing the busy detailing and giving tranquility to the setting -- perfect for reading and conversation.
The family lived in China and collected art and furnishings strongly influenced by an Asian aesthetic. Bradshaw Designs just completed renovations as the couple and their daughter returned from Beijing to begin unpacking.
“The best part of moving to the neighborhood was meeting our next door neighbor, Ralph Lehr,” said Beth. “I saw a gentleman sitting outdoors as we drove up to our new house. He came to greet us. He told us so much of the history of our home and of the generations of families that have lived in this community.”
Soon afterward, Lillian Lehr drove by and introduced herself, recalls Beth. “She asked, ‘Do you and your husband enjoy hors d’oeuvres and cocktails?’” They were soon in the thick of things, with the Lehrs hosting neighbors for convivial conversation. “We have been very blessed to be their neighbors,” said Beth. MASTER BATH Serenity envelops the master bath with a Badeloft freestanding soaking tub of crushed, polished limestone. MASTER BATH Arabescata marble countertops create a dramatic contrast to custom charcoal gray cabinetry and mirror frames accented with polished nickel and Lucite sconces.
78209 N EIG H BORH OOD N EW S
NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS Terrell Hills Mayor Anne Ballantyne
TERRELL HILLS OFFICIALS LOOK TO THE FUTURE By EDMOND ORTIZ
Photography By CASEY HOWELL
The city of Terrell Hills has wrapped up another fiscal year and is operating with a new budget. Even so, Mayor Anne Ballantyne and city officials see this as a perfect time to have an enhanced long-term strategy, especially when it comes to infrastructure improvements. The city recently completed road improvement projects on Elmcourt, Ivy Lane and Vandiver. “For the last 20 years, we’ve improved pretty much all city roads except for a couple of little side streets,” Ballantyne said. The new 2016 budget, which took effect Jan. 1, will have no drawdown on reserve funds while providing an estimated $300,000 to transfer to the capital improvement fund for future street projects. Additionally, a capital equipment fund is being created to cover future major equipment needs such as fire trucks and refuse vehicles. This will account for 1 percent of the general fund budget. Ballantyne commented that the city always strives to save enough money to support one major infrastructure project each year. Now the city plans to work with Pape-Dawson Engineers to form a new long-range methodology of monitoring street and drainage conditions to determine what areas need work, when and how much. “We’re working with the engineers on a new standard for our streets,” the mayor said. “We want to go about it in a pragmatic way and figure out a long-range plan.” Ballantyne also hopes to see more sustainable commercial development for Terrell Hills in the future. The city’s semi-commercial sector is small and contained within a part of Harry Wurzbach Highway. It presently features 24 | January 2016
small dining and bar establishments and some stores. Ballantyne said she would like to find out if there’s a way to enhance the commercial district, which in turn would help to bring in more sales tax revenue. Local sales tax revenues have fluctuated over the last few years. The city recorded $250,432 in sales tax income in 2012, then $213,546 in 2013 and $242,959 in 2014. “We’d love to have more small office buildings and small businesses that residents would like to have there,” the mayor said. While any new or improved office buildings and enterprises would not improve the sales tax revenue stream itself, they would mean more office space and job opportunities for residents and non-residents. “We would look at ways to bring in something that is compatible with the community,” the mayor added. The new 2016 general fund budget contains $5.22 million in revenue, a 5.7 percent increase from the 2015 budget. City officials attribute that increase to how well franchise fees have performed in recent years. Additionally, properties adding new value to the local tax rolls are expected to generate $78,000. The city has also scheduled a 2 percent cost-of-living increase for city employees this new fiscal year. No new personnel are
being added. “We’re very blessed to have a good tax base,” Ballantyne said. “Values of homes have helped to keep the tax base stable. We try to mitigate anyone’s rising tax bill by keeping our property tax rate as low as possible.”º In the long term, Ballantyne envisions more recreational amenities for residents, such as enhancing the pocket park/community playground at the end of Crestwood and Arvin and making that area more visible and attractive to enjoy. The mayor suggests that having more small-scale public events could help bring about a greater feel for community in Terrell Hills. The city does have a popular Fourth of July parade followed by a picnic on Geneseo Road and a National Night Out road gathering in October. In December, the city hosted a Christmas event at the pocket park, complete with a short parade, free refreshments and Santa Claus posing for photos next to a fire truck. “We’re really trying to get the community together more often,” the mayor said. “Everyone should be able to benefit from what we have to offer. Some people don’t even know we have a park. We should change that.”
78209 N EIG H BORH OOD N EW S
NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS
REMAKING ALAMO HEIGHTS City Revising Codes To Attract More Families and Businesses
Ten foot wide sidewalks with spaces for plants and inviting street level retail spaces will increase “walkability” and beautify the Broadway business corridor.
By EDMOND ORTIZ
Photography By JANICE THACH
The city of Alamo Heights is gradually revamping its codes to better accommodate the types of development designed to help revitalize the Broadway corridor and to make the community more diverse and dynamic. Advocates for revising the city codes add that luring more high-end, small-scale, multi-family development to town and encouraging businesses to make their own physical improvements can help to remake Alamo Heights' atmosphere. The city council voted in November to first revise rules for new multi-family developments. Changes include ensuring zero setbacks between the exterior of structures and the sidewalk. The city's codes now require new multi-family developments to have 10-foot-wide sidewalks and 5-foot-wide planter spaces suitable for trees. New multi-family developments must also have street-level retail spaces.
26 | January 2016
The city's Commercial Code Committee made the recommendations for revising rules impacting multi-family zoned properties and early in 2016 will suggest ways to enhance rules for properties zoned for office and business use. Committee members such as William Kiel, a former council member, have expressed a desire to increase “walkability” and bicycle lanes and to beautify the Broadway business corridor with more trees and wider sidewalks. Meanwhile, there is no news to report on Argyle Residential's plan to develop a multi-story apartment complex at Broadway and Austin Highway. All stakeholders are waiting to see how an issue over public ownership of a piece of Austin Highway is resolved. Argyle, the developer, is waiting for agencies to determine how the project might — or might not — fit into the property, which is in a flood plain.
COMMUNITY CALENDAR January ANNUAL TREE TRIMMING (anything under 13 feet limit) will take place in Alamo Heights. Monday, January 4 AHISD RETURN TO SCHOOL All schools & district offices return to regular schedules. NEISD RETURN TO SCHOOL All schools & district offices return to regular schedules. Tuesday, January 5 ALAMO HEIGHTS ROTARY 12pm The Petroleum Club 8620 N. New Braunfels San Antonio, TX 78217 ahrotary.org Wednesday, January 6 ALAMO HEIGHTS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE LUNCHEON 11:30am meet & greet, 12pm guest speaker Paesano’s Lincoln Heights 555 E. Basse Road San Antonio, TX 78209 alamoheightschamber.org Monday, January 11 ALAMO HEIGHTS CITY COUNCIL 5:30-9pm 6116 Broadway Street San Antonio, TX 78209 alamoheightstx.gov Meeting is open to the public. NEISD BOARD MEETING 5:30pm 8691 Tesoro Drive San Antonio, TX 78217 neisd.net Meeting is open to the public. (Meeting date and time are subject to change.) TERRELL HILLS CITY COUNCIL MEETING 5-6pm Terrell Hills City Hall 5100 North New Braunfels San Antonio, TX 78209 terrell-hills.com Meeting is open to the public. Tuesday, January 12 ALAMO HEIGHTS ROTARY 12pm The Petroleum Club 8620 N. New Braunfels San Antonio, TX 78217 ahrotary.org Monday, January 18 ALAMO HEIGHTS CITY HALL CLOSED in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday TERRELL HILLS CITY HALL CLOSED in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Tuesday, January 19 ALAMO HEIGHTS ROTARY 12pm The Petroleum Club 8620 N. New Braunfels San Antonio, TX 78217 ahrotary.org
28 |January 2016
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ALAMO HEIGHTS ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD (ARB) 5:30-8pm 6116 Broadway Street San Antonio, TX 78209 alamoheightstx.gov Meeting is open to the public. Thursday, January 21 AHISD REGULAR BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING 7-9pm AHISD Admin. Offices-Board Room 7101 Broadway Street San Antonio, TX 78209 ahisd.net Meeting is open to the public. Monday, January 25 ALAMO HEIGHTS CITY COUNCIL 5:30-9pm 6116 Broadway Street San Antonio, TX 78209 alamoheightstx.gov Meeting is open to the public. Tuesday, January 26 ALAMO HEIGHTS ROTARY 12pm The Petroleum Club 8620 N. New Braunfels San Antonio, TX 78217 ahrotary.org Wednesday, February 3 ALAMO HEIGHTS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE LUNCHEON 11:30am meet & greet, 12pm guest speaker Paesano’s Lincoln Heights 555 E. Basse Road San Antonio, TX 78209 alamoheightschamber.org WATER RESTRICTIONS Per city ordinance, San Antonio City Manager Sheryl Sculley, in consultation with SAWS President/CEO Robert R. Puente, declared the end to Stage 2 drought restrictions. Year-round watering rules are now in effect. Under yearround rules, landscape watering with an irrigation system or hose-end sprinkler is allowed any day of the week before 11 a.m. or after 7 p.m. IMPORTANT NUMBERS: City of Alamo Heights: Fire/EMS (Non-Emergency) 210-824-1281 Police (Non-Emergency) 210-822-3321 Police Administration Office 210-822-6433 Taxes 210-882-1503 Water 210-882-1507 Court Clerk 210-882-1501 Public Works (includes solid waste, brush, recycling, streets, etc.) 210-882-1518 Planning and Development Services (permits and inspections) 210-826-0516
City of Terrell Hills: City Administration Offices 210-824-7401 Non-Emergency Dispatch (Police/EMS/Fire) 210-824-1009
CHAMBER of COMMERCE NEWS FROM ALAMO HEIGHTS
AHCC PRESIDENT NICK BASTRESS STATES GOALS FOR 2016
Nick Bastress is Alamo Heights Chamber of Commerce’s incoming president for 2016. Professionally, Bastress has served in advertising and marketing consulting for the past four years. Prior to joining KENS 5, he was at Time Warner Cable Media.
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A MEMBER OF AHCC? I have been a member for two years now, going on my third. I joined the board my first year as part of the executive committee, and this past year I served in the capacity of vice president/president-elect.
WHAT HAVE YOU MOST ENJOYED ABOUT MEMBERSHIP? While I know I can be a part of any of the myriad chambers of commerce here in San Antonio, I enjoy being a member of AHCC because it is all about connections. It is small enough to manage, and I recognize everyone’s faces and names. I am able to formulate relationships with people at this chamber easily. And I enjoy the steady crowd we get at our luncheon programs and events. I see our luncheons not as a sales tool but an education tool. The luncheons are like mini-town halls. At these programs and through this chamber I have developed friends and work relationships on a personal level.
Luncheon speaker,- Bryan Bayles, curator of health and anthropology with the Witte Museum, discussed the H-E-B Body Adventure and the history the building has made in the year it has been open.
WHAT IS YOUR GOAL FOR THE CHAMBER THIS YEAR? We are a voice of the community. We strive to educate our members and general public about happenings and discuss current and future endeavors that might impact our community and city. Here are the three ways the board and I will pursue this goal:
1. Outreach/See New Faces: I like to find out what attendees like about what they hear at our programs. We are a tri-city chamber for Alamo Heights, Terrell Hills and Olmos Park. And they see what we are all about. Huge chambers can be intimidating. It’s easier to connect at our programs.
2. Engage the Community: We strive to work with the community within those three cities to provide an information exchange and open dialogue.
New member Sal Caballero of Pro Facilities Pest & Lawn Services
3. Grow Your Circle: We are here to help people grow their connections. It’s always important to connect personally face to face.
WHAT IS NEW THAT IS SLATED FOR THIS YEAR? For 2016, I want to keep the calendar alive and active. We will have more after-work networking mixers every other month or so and tie into a cause. While this chamber is about connections, it is also about helping the community. Each quarter I would like to have a volunteer effort taking place on a weekend for our chamber members to get involved — something that is family-friendly.
I find that you get to know people a lot better oftentimes when you are wearing jeans or overalls rather than a suit and tie. You discover a lot about people when they are working together on a project and you see them in their true spirit. It breaks down the barriers and is a way to give back to the community. We will use our body of members, skills and resources and reach this goal. 30 |January 2016
Sunset Ridge Apartments ribbon cutting on Dec. 3rd. Tracy Sparks is the community manager.
78209
ID EA S F OR L IV IN G
Trends in
HOME
DESIGN
By KRISTIN MEARS
Will redecorating be a resolution of yours this New Year? If it is, choosing new upholstery, paint colors and even organization can be an overwhelming task for any homeowner who doesn’t have the luxury and perks of being a designer. Robin Wilson, founder and CEO of Robin Wilson Home and author of Clean Design: Wellness for Your Lifestyle, together with local designers, retailers and builders, weigh in on what the new year will bring in home design trends. These local experts include Gene Philipps, owner of Cabinetry Designs; Lisa Nichols, owner of Nic Abbey; Mary Ann Mitchell, owner and architect of Mitchell Design Group; and Amy Doyle, owner of Sunset Ridge Home & Hardware.
Shades of White
“You can’t go wrong with white. But it must be the ‘right white,’” explains architect and owner Mary Ann Mitchell of Mitchell Design Group. “Getting the right shade of white can be tricky, as there are many variations. The best whites are those that have a slight hint of neutral gray; otherwise you may end up with an almost vanilla or a dingy warm white. I always have three large samples painted in the space for my approval to ensure it feels the way I intend.” Robin Wilson of Robin Wilson Home says, “Most people do not realize that there are 96 shades of white, and more people are exploring these variations to give rooms subtle hue changes.” Clean, crisp, multipurpose whites have been a classic favorite for many homeowners, and this hue is the “go-to” color for 2016.
32 |January 2016
Open Kitchen/Great Rooms
Nationally renowned designer Wilson explains, “More clients recognize that the kitchen is the ‘heart of the home,’ and they are opening up the space so that family and friends can gather around during meal preparation.” An open kitchen/great room is a desirable floor plan for many renovations and custom builds this year, not only for its entertaining factor, but also to incorporate trendy design elements to make the home feel customized. “Almost every kitchen we have designed and built this past year has had an open kitchen/great room floor plan,” explains Lisa Nichols, owner of Nic Abbey. “Design elements are being used to create that ‘wow factor,’ like statement ceilings that make you look up and vertical joint wood paneling of cabinetry or ceilings or both -- a fun way to introduce detail into this space.” The concept of marrying modern and traditional design elements to reflect the modern family is a big trend to define the open kitchen/great room spaces into the “heart of the home” that families are seeking. “We are doing a lot of furniture-style cabinetry in the open kitchens,” says Nichols. “You could incorporate this idea by designing your island to resemble a beautiful piece of furniture by raising it on legs or adding intricate paneling on the sides.”
Quartz Stone Countertops
Kitchen countertops not only reflect your style but also accommodate your meal preparation needs. While granite has been the most sought-after material in kitchen countertops, quartz stone is an attractive alternative that is becoming popular for its resistance to scratches, stains and heat as well as low maintenance. “Quartz countertops are trending stronger as the new colors emulate natural marble,” explains Gene Philipps, owner of Cabinetry Designs. Quartz countertops combine the elegant look of stone with increased durability. Wilson explains, “The Silestone and Caesarstone countertops are more popular because of multiple options, lower maintenance, antibacterial properties and durability.”
www.78209magazine.com | 33
Pantries
Walk-in pantries have evolved from just storing canned goods to now holding small appliances and dishes. Pantry organization systems range from custom built- ins to wire shelving racks. “Pantries integrated into the kitchen cabinetry with roll- out shelves are much more ergonomic and efficient than the traditional walk-in pantry,” explains Philipps. “Most of the space in the walk-in pantry is occupied by you instead of your groceries.” Wilson says, “With the increase in bulk package purchases from stores such as Costco or Amazon, more people are creating a space to put such items to ensure that they are properly stored.”
Undermount Sinks
Undermount sinks, installed below the countertop, are a growing trend. “It is not a luxury to have an undermount sink but a positive impact on your health because bacteria will not be trapped in the lip of the sink,” says Wilson. With its seamless look and easy cleanup, this type of sink is becoming a must-have in kitchen design. “Basically, it’s the current standard,” explains Philipps. “The farm sink, however, is gaining in popularity.”
34 |January 2016
Curbless Showers:
Home Office
“Instead of just having a guest room, homeowners are trending toward combination home office/guestrooms,” says Amy Doyle, owner of Sunset Ridge Home & Hardware. “Also, given the need to be able to work from home and tap into one’s work environment, it’s almost a necessity. It gives the user the opportunity to customize their workspace, which is not always possible in a commercial environment.” Having a dedicated office space is essential. “Even if it was once a walk-in closet,” says Wilson, “having a dedicated space allows one to separate work from home.”
Entry Foyer Benches
Many people believe first impressions can make or break a situation. Since the entryway in most homes is what your guests will see first, choosing the right piece for that space can determine the whole flow of your home. There is also an eco-friendly advantage to adding a space for shoes and outerwear in your foyer. “Removing these items can prevent toxins from entering the home,” explains Wilson. “More people are adding a place for these benches, like in their mudroom or entry foyers.”
“This is a trend that has been common in high-end construction, but it is also useful for multigenerational design,” explains Wilson. “Imagine that you are in a wheelchair one day, and you cannot afford to renovate. If you have a curbless shower, you can preserve your dignity a bit longer by wheeling into the space and using a hand wand.” Flooring that runs right into the shower, rather than stopping at the shower curb, offers a clean, seamless approach to bathroom design. Accentuating the curbless shower with highend drains and hardware can turn a functional space into a sleek decorative space.
Mechanical Window Shades
With technology becoming a trend in every facet of the home, why not incorporate it into your window coverings too? Window blinds can now be controlled via remote or even the Internet. Wilson says, “Window shades can move up and down with remote controls for energy efficiency, protection of furniture/artwork or security to make it appear that someone is home.”
Home Remote Controls
As consumers, we love to have instant gratification -- everything at our fingertips and ready to go. Controlling your home features and security can now be accomplished just as fast with the push of a button. “With products such as Nest or Smart Home, consumers can manage security, temperature, lights and window shades,” explains Wilson. “All of these features can be monitored from their smartphones, even if they are traveling.” www.78209magazine.com | 35
78209
W EL L N ES S
GOOD HEALTH
GOALS begin with WATER By PAMELA LUTRELL
When Ben headed out for a run at Brackenridge Park, he never imagined the day would end in an emergency room. But not far down the path, he began to experience difficulty breathing and pressure in his chest, which brought an immediate fear of a heart attack.
His family was surprised but relieved that these symptoms were results of dehydration. Ben needed to drink more water. “Dehydration can lead to many symptoms -- fatigue, cramps, dizziness, diarrhea, vision issues, nausea, vomiting. Increased heart rate and palpitations have all been associated with it,” says Shawn Mollica, PA of the Deerwood Family Practice.
The heat and humidity of San Antonio are reasons residents should keep hydration at the forefront of their concerns. The Mayo Clinic reports those at greatest risk of dehydration live in hot and humid climates, are infants and children, older adults, endurance athletes, and those with chronic illnesses. According to the Mayo Clinic, “When it's hot and humid, your risk of dehydration and heat illness increases. That's because when the air is humid, sweat can't evaporate and cool you as quickly as it normally does, and this can lead to an increased body temperature and the need for more fluids.”
Dr. Allen Alavarez, a bariatric surgeon at Christus Santa Rosa Hospital in Alamo Heights, said, “ San Antonio residents are diligent, and we love to spend time outside, where the heat can easily dehydrate the body fairly quickly if one is not careful with their hydration. San Antonio hosts many running events like the Rock ‘n’ Roll half marathon throughout the year, and not keeping up with proper hydration may lead to electrolyte imbalances that may need hospitalization.”
36 |January 2016
Alvarez said there are five things to keep in mind about hydration:
OTHER SOURCES FOR WATER
2. Avoid sugar. Sugar draws water out of your cells, causing them to be metabolically sluggish and making you feel sick with fatigue.
Eighty percent of our fluid intake comes from beverages, and the remaining 20 percent comes from foods such as fruits, veggies, soups, low-fat milk and yogurt (all excellent due to their high water content).
1. Hydration is a mindset, so set intentional reminders to drink water throughout the day. You may even download an app to your phone that will text you when it's time to drink water.
3. Avoid stimulants like energy drinks that not only dehydrate the cells in your body but then require almost double the amount of water in order to replenish their metabolic functions.
4. Avoid snacking. Food is mostly made up of water, so many times we eat because we are unknowingly thirsty. So staying hydrated throughout the day is a tremendous benefit in weight management
5. Caffeine and alcohol are diuretics, making you lose water from the body. So compensate by doubling your water intake if indulging in these types of beverages.
Jan Tilley, president of JTA Wellness, said, “It is important to stay hydrated because often we may mistake hunger for thirst, and this could lead to senseless overeating when really all we need is a glass of water.”
Tilley writes in a paper on the importance of hydration, “When as little as 2 percent of your body weight is lost through dehydration, physical and cognitive performance can be affected. Water, sometimes called the forgotten nutrient, is an absolute requirement for metabolism – it transports nutrients and helps remove waste.
– from JTA Wellness president Jan Tilley
HYDRATION HELPERS IN FOODS Watermelon Oranges Grapes
Tomatoes
Cucumbers Celery
Carrots
Cantaloupe
“It is important to understand your total body weight is 75 percent water, which means you need to make sure you are responsibly hydrating, especially during physical activity,” said Tilley. She cautions other signs of dehydration include dry mouth, weak/low energy, headaches, irritability and dark urine.
Understanding the symptoms plus the importance of water may save many residents from aging early, serious health issues and unnecessary trips to the emergency room.
www.78209magazine.com | 37
78209 F ITN ES S
INSPIRATIONAL JOURNEY A PERSONAL TRAINER’S OWN WEIGHT LOSS STORY By KRISTEN PETERSON
Meet my inspirational colleague Tom, who revealed to me his weight loss journey. And it’s not just a few pounds – he was 100 pounds overweight. It’s a very personal story – so much so that he threw away his “before” pictures many years ago. I admire his courage in letting me share this with you.
NAME: Tom Trevino
AGE: 45
OCCUPATION: Personal trainer and wellness coach
CAN YOU TELL US A LITTLE BACKGROUND ABOUT YOUR STRUGGLE? I was a chubby kid and remember trying various diets as far back as fifth grade. By the time I started college, I had already gone through so many phases of gaining and losing weight. At the end of that first year, things got out of control, and I was closing in on 300 pounds. I remember leaning over to tie my shoes thinking: this is kind of difficult. I was about 19 or 20 at the time. 38 |January 2016
WHAT WAS THE MOMENT OR EVENT THAT PROMPTED YOUR WEIGHT LOSS JOURNEY? I was never comfortable in my own skin and envied every skinny/normal sized person I saw, as they seemed to have everything I wanted... but I never had a specific moment that changed my life, just a consistent longing for it to be different. Oddly enough, the environment that led me to gain so much weight — living alone and buying and eating whatever I wanted that first year of college - was exactly the same environment that helped me lose weight. I realized I was in complete control of my environment and that this was my chance to make some changes. HOW DID YOU DO IT? The short answer: lots of carbs and lots of cardio. That was the trend then. WHAT WAS YOUR BIGGEST OBSTACLE? It was terribly uncomfortable and intimidating to be fat and unfit and walk into a gym. I had no idea what I was doing or how anything worked. I had no mentor, no touchstone and no support group when I started. I would have loved to have someone with some knowledge and common sense help guide me along.
AFTER YOU LOST WEIGHT, WAS THERE A DIFFERENCE IN HOW OTHERS TREATED YOU? It was like being on another planet — a place where people acknowledged you, said hello and even smiled at you. Those are very simple things that I didn't see or acknowledge when I was obese. I was also terribly introverted and kept my head down at the time, so once I felt better about myself and opened up, the world seemed to open up for me too. WHAT HAS BEEN THE MOST IMPORTANT FACTOR IN KEEPING THE WEIGHT OFF? The reality is it's been a struggle. I still fluctuate a bit, but within a much healthier variance. I know exactly when and why I gain weight and exactly how to get rid of it. If I eat more than I need on a consistent basis, I gain weight. And if I eat a more reasonable amount on a consistent basis, I lose weight. It's that simple. TELL US ABOUT HOW IT HAS CHANGED YOUR LIFE. I've done things that I could only imagine and dream about as an unhealthy kid. I've participated in more than 100 events, including marathons, half marathons, triathlons and cycling tours. I've led, coached and trained other individuals and teams to do the same, which is incredibly gratifying. I can do things like pull-ups, which were impossible in my youth. My body now is no longer a hindrance, and I'm interested and excited to get up and move every day!
CONSISTENTLY VOTED ONE OF SAN ANTONIO’S TOP DENTISTS BY HIS PEERS
www.78209magazine.com | 39
‘09
SCHOOLS ST. LUKE’S EPISCOPAL SERVES LOCAL COMMUNITY DURING HOLIDAYS
St. Luke’s Episcopal School partnered with Good Samaritan Community Services and San Antonio’s Salvation Army over the recent holiday season. Students participated in gift and food drives as they served the local community. Service learning is a cornerstone of the St. Luke’s Episcopal School student experience. St. Luke’s Episcopal Church and School sponsored 200 children in the Salvation Army’s Angel Tree gift drive. The congregation and students collected 30 bikes, 15 scooters, 15,000 LEGO pieces and countless toys and clothing items for children in need. In addition to the gift drive, St. Luke’s middle school students packed weekend snack bags for children at the Good Samaritan Center as a part of their Silver & Black Give Back Team Up Challenge project. The snack bags were delivered to children who may rely on free or reduced price meals when school is in session. Students also packed and delivered goodie bags of tissue, lip balm and other cold weather necessities to senior citizens at an Alamo Heights retirement facility. Richard Martinez 11th grade;
Lamar Pre-K students performed in their yearly holiday event and put on quite a show. It was standing room only for this event, which drew close to 200 in the crowd.
LAMAR ELEMENTARY PRE-K HOSTS HOLIDAY SHOW
ST. LUKE’S EPISCOPAL SCHOOL ANNOUNCES SCHOLARHIP CONCERT
Native Texan singer-songwriter Radney Foster will once again entertain concert-goers in San Antonio for the sixth annual concert benefiting the St. Luke’s Episcopal School’s John R. Foster Scholarship Fund. The star-studded concert will take place on April 13 at the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts. Foster will be joined by Grammy Award-winning soloist Darius Rucker (former lead singer for Hootie and the Blowfish), and the concert will also feature fellow Texan country talent Kelly Willis. Concert proceeds help to provide a full-tuition, three-year scholarship for a middle school student who exhibits a record of academic achievement and a “servant’s heart.” Radney Foster has organized the annual concert event since 2010 in honor of his father, whose Episcopal education forged deep commitments to lifelong learning, service to others and worship in the Anglican tradition. The concert is open to the community; tickets can be purchased through the Tobin Center website at www.tobincenter.org. To learn more about St. Luke’s Episcopal School’s John R. Foster Scholarship, visit www.sles-sa.org/giving/fosterscholarship.cfm. 40 |January 2016
Alexandra Leos 11th grade
MACARTHUR STUDENTS HELP Photography: Laura Breeden, NEISD LAUNCH SA WORKS PROGRAM
San Antonio Works initiative launched a new website that links high school juniors and seniors with local businesses. Students can apply for paid and unpaid internships, apprenticeships and jobshadowing opportunities. SA Works launched the internship website at MacArthur High School December 9. Students created profiles and will be able to search positions with participating employers in San Antonio and Bexar County. The initiative is sponsored by H-E-B. Students can sign up now at www.sanantonioworks.org to create an account and to search upcoming events.
‘09
SCHOOLS
AHISD JANUARY CALENDAR OF EVENTS January 4 RETURN TO SCHOOL All schools and district offices return to regular schedules. January 18 MARTIN LUTHER KING HOLIDAY AND WALK All schools and district offices closed for the holiday. Woodridge Elementary joins citizens of San Antonio in MLK Walk downtown. January 20 TEXAS SCHOOL COALITION PRESENTATION ON SCHOOL FINANCE State Capitol, Austin, 9:30 - 11 am. The Texas School Coalition brings together public school districts interested in improving the state school finance laws for all districts, focusing specifically on all Chapter 41 districts, also known as revenue-contributing districts.
TEXAS A&M AWARDS
Texas A&M University named Alamo Heights ISD as the Outstanding School District in Texas. The district was recognized on Nov.11 in College Station. 42 |January 2016
NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM
The National Merit® Scholarship Program is an academic competition for recognition and scholarships. Alamo Heights High School students who have been recognized and honored for their academic achievements by the National Merit Scholarship Program include National Merit Semi-Finalists: Edward Kershner and Benjamin Kurzban; National Merit Commended: Sarah Berton, Christopher Friedrichs, Edward Kershner, Benjamin Kurzban, Chase Miller, Matthew Parker, Noah Perloff, Derek Stone and Casey Young; National Hispanic Scholars: Valeria Cortez, Benjamin Kurzban, Rosalia O’Brien, Christian Olson, Hannah Ortega, Nikolas Rodriguez, Ricardo Tamez and Casey Young.
ALAMO HEIGHTS SOCCER COACH INDUCTED INTO HALL OF FAME
Alamo Heights High School Boys Varsity Soccer Coach Bruce Fink was inducted into the Texas Association of Soccer Coaches Hall of Fame for his lifetime commitment to students.
www.78209magazine.com | 43
‘09
SCHOOLS
AHISD TO INTRODUCE TECHNOLOGY PILOT PROGRAM
DISTRICT ALSO CONSIDERING A NEW BOND By EDMOND ORTIZ
Several initiatives in the Alamo Heights Independent School District are paving the way toward how the district could better serve its students’ and teachers’ needs and toward a new bond program. The district recently convened an education advisory council, made up of 40 people who met together over four days in the fall to develop a profile of an AHISD learner. “The document describes the characteristics and attributes we’d like to have our students possess when they leave the school district,” said Dr. Kevin Brown, AHISD superintendent. The profile also suggests what local students need in order to be able to succeed today in college, in the workforce, and to be what Brown called “generally well-rounded people.” The profile urges educators to help students to communicate and collaborate and think critically and creatively in different ways, as well as to employ life skills. The profile also encourages students to engage socially and globally. Brown said the district has much room for improvement in the way it uses technology to support student education. A long-term district-wide technology plan was presented to the AHISD school board in December. The school district’s last bond program, in 2010, not only funded improvements and expansion at current facilities, but it supported enhancing the district’s tech infrastructure. Be-
44 |January 2016
cause AHISD wound up underspending on 2010 bond projects, it has enough room and money to support tech infrastructure from that bond through 2016. Starting with the 2016-2017 school year, AHISD will introduce a pilot program in which 15 select classrooms throughout the district will be reorganized. Brown explained that every district classroom currently features a teacher with a laptop computer and a handful of computers for all students in that room to use. In the pilot program, there would be smart boards for educators, and students would be encouraged to bring their laptop or tablet to school. This, Brown said, could make it easier for an educator to achieve his or her objective in the classroom and for students to take greater responsibility for using technology properly to do their schoolwork. “It’s not about technology, it’s about the learning process and simplifying things,” the superintendent added. Another part of the school district’s long-range vision is the realization of a strategic plan that was launched more than seven years ago. It involved 49 initiatives, all of which have been completed. “But we’re not one to rest on our laurels. This profile of a learner informs us and will help is to develop a profile of a teacher, which will help us as a learning organization to best support our educators,” Brown said. All of this collaboration among district employees, leaders and community members now has achieved critical mass around the formation of a bond/facilities planning committee. The committee has more than 30 people, including Brown, a few junior and high school students, PTO representatives, teachers, administrators and three trustees. The bond committee had met three times as of early December, assessing the needs of each current district facility. Brown said those needs range from more classroom space to infrastructure issues and technology. “We are looking at a lot of things, such as up-
1.31.16
Members of the Alamo Heights ISD Facilities Planning Committee have met to review needs of each district facility ahead of a possible bond proposal in 2016. Photos courtesy/AHISD
dating furniture and making classrooms more learner-centered,” he added. “Our buildings are older but well-maintained. But they’re not as updated as we’d like them to be.” The superintendent added that the bond committee has also been looking at possible eco-friendly/sustainable features, such as xeriscaping. But as of mid-December, the district had not yet revealed preliminary costs associated with any new bond proposals. AHISD has until Feb. 19 to call a bond election for the May 7 election. Members of the Alamo Heights ISD Facilities Planning Committee have met to review needs of each district facility ahead of a possible bond proposal in 2016.
ALAMO HEIGHTS HIGH SCHOOL ROCKETRY PROGRAM HONORED
Alamo Heights High School’s Rocketry program was honored by SystemsGo on December 17 with the Diamond Goddard Award for success with their annual rocket builds and launches, including the expansion of the program at AHHS. Additionally, the program was featured in Texas School Business Magazine’s annual Bragging Rights issue as an outstanding program in Texas. www.78209magazine.com | 45
78209 CHURCH DIRECTORY
Glorifying God and sharing the teachings of Jesus Christ we build a community of hope and wholeness through worship education, service and fellowship.
Celebrating 102 years in Alamo Heights
ALAMO HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 6201 Broadway, San Antonio, Texas 78209 Senior Pastor: Rev Dr. Richard Knott. Jr. (210) 824-0271 www.alamoheightspres.com
Come Worship with Us Two worship services at 8:30am and 11:00am
ALAMO HEIGHTS BAPTIST CHURCH 6501 Broadway St. San Antonio, TX 78209 210-824-9539 Services: Sunday 10:45am and Wednesday 6:15pm praise and prayer ALAMO HEIGHTS CHRISTIAN CHURCH 6435 N. New Braunfels Ave. San Antonio, TX 78209 210-828-5728 alamoheightscc.org Services: Sunday: 10:50am-12pm ALAMO HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 6201 Broadway St. San Antonio, TX 78209 210-824-0271 alamoheightspres.com Services: Sunday 8:30am and 11am ALAMO HEIGHTS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 825 E Basse Road San Antonio, TX 78209 210-826-3215 ahumc.org Services: Sunday 8:30am, 9:30am and 11am CHRIST LUTHERAN CHURCH 6720 Broadway St. San Antonio, TX 78209 210-822-3394 clcah.org Services: Sunday 8:30am and 10:30am FIRST CHURCH OF CHRIST SCIENTIST 5927 Broadway St. San Antonio, TX 78209 210-822-8870 (no website) Services: Wednesday 12-1pm and Sunday 10:30-11:30am
MOUNT CALVARY LUTHERAN CHURCH 308 Mt. Calvary Drive San Antonio, TX 78209 210-824-8748 mtcsa.org Services: Sunday 8:30am and 11am ST. ANTHONY DE PADUA CATHOLIC CHURCH 102 Lorenz Road San Antonio, TX 78209 210-824-1743 stanthonydepadua.org Services: Sunday mass 7:30am, 9am; 10:30am, 1 pm Daily mass 9am Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday ST. LUKE’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH 11 Saint Luke’s Lane San Antonio, Texas 78209 210-828-6425 slecsa.org Services: Sunday 8am, 9am, 11am. 6pm Wednesday 8:10am, Thursday 12:15pm ST. PETER PRINCE OF THE APOSTLES CHURCH 111 Barilla Place San Antonio, TX 78209 210-822-3367 stpeterprinceoftheapostles.org Services: Mass Saturday 5:30pm, Sunday 9am, 11am and 5:30pm; Tuesday and Thursday 7am; Wednesday 5:30pm; Friday 8:15am ST. PIUS X CATHOLIC CHURCH 3303 Urban Crest Drive San Antonio, TX 78209 210-824-0139 stpiusxsa.org Services: Saturday 8am, 5pm; Sunday 8am, 10:15am, 12:10pm, 5:30pm Monday-Friday at various times
For more information visit www.SanAntonioChurches.com.
46 |January 2016
A N N OU N CEM EN TS
78209
MR. AND MRS. WILL DENNY GAFFNEY (Kristen Alyssa Kortschak) November 14, 2015
Kristen Alyssa Kortschak and Will Denny Gaffney were married on November 14, 2015 in the Garden Courtyard at the Rosewood Crescent Hotel in Dallas, Texas. The bride is the daughter of Paul and Kim Kortschak of Danville, California and the granddaughter of Mrs. Wanda Seymore-Piechoconski and the late Mr. Edward Piechoconski, and Mr. and Mrs. German Kortschak. The groom is the son of Mike and Nancy Gaffney of San Antonio, Texas, and is the grandson of Mrs. H. Ann Gaffney and the late Mr. Jack O. Gaffney, and Mr. and Mrs. Malcolm T. Hopkins. The bride was given away in marriage and escorted by her father. Matron of honor was Candace Hernandez, sister of the bride. Best man was Mike Gaffney, father of the groom. The ceremony was performed by the Reverend Richard Knott of Alamo Heights Presbyterian Church. The couple honeymooned in Napa, California and will reside in Fort Worth, Texas.
Ceremony Site: Courtyard at the Rosewood Crescent Hotel - Dallas Reception Site: Rosewood Crescent Hotel – Dallas Bridal Gown Designer/Retailer: Pronovias/Bliss Bridal Hair/Makeup: Isha Meshall /Kari Ann Shuler of Kari Does Makeup Groom's Attire: Vera Wang / Men's Wearhouse Bridesmaid Dress Designer/Retailer: Vera Wang / David’s Bridal Flowers: Antebellum Design LLC Caterer: Rosewood Crescent Hotel - Dallas Music: The Royal Dukes Photographer: Aves Photography Videographer: Turquoise Video Productions Wedding Planner: Jacqueline Hill Events Lighting: It’s Your Night Entertainment
Showcase
your Celebration Share the details of your special occasion with a 78209 MAGAZINE announcement.
Engagements, Weddings, Births and Anniversaries will be showcased in this special section.
Contact us for more information and rates at: info@78209magazine.com. www.78209magazine.com | 47
78209 TH E
BU ZZ
JAN 2016
The Buzz By LESLIE FOLEY
The fast-growing Colorado-based company Natural Grocers is moving forward with its first locations here in the Alamo city. The company will be planning a store for Alamo Heights and on NW Military Highway. Known for its high-quality and all organic produce, Natural Grocers also hosts seminars, cooking demos and health fairs. Watch for grand opening details soon.
NATURAL GROCERS
CAFÉ DIJON COZIES UP TO 78209
Barbara Harris, general manager of Café Dijon, is excited about the warm and inviting restaurant she and partners Natalie Newell and Noelle Hollingsworth have opened at Village on the Green. Harris has been in business for 36 years, was the owner of the restaurant Sugarbaker’s at The Quarry Village, where Piranha Killer Sushi is today, and is now offering home cooking with a French flair at the new Café Dijon down the street. “We have soups, salads and sandwiches including favorites like the Croque Monsieur, French onion soup and chicken crepes. And we will have lots of desserts. Everything is made from scratch except for the bread for sandwiches and potato chips. We also offer beer and wine.” Café Dijon serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. The dinner menu is different from the lunch menu. “We will do a buffet breakfast on Saturdays from 9 am to 1 pm and a buffet lunch on Sundays from 10:30 am to 2:30 pm. Stay tuned for the official grand opening happening soon.” Café Dijon is located at 555 East Basse Road, Suite 113, and offers seating for approximately 75 and outdoor seating as well. Their phone is 210-822-2665. Open seven days a week, Monday through Thursday 8 am – 9 pm; Friday and Saturday, 8 am – 10; pm and Sunday, 10:30 am-2:30 pm for brunch only. The restaurant will not serve its regular menu on Sunday.
ONE-WAY TRAIL
Plan to visit Art in the Garden at San Antonio Botanical Garden. Artist Kim Beck is featured. Her project, OneWay Trail, consists of a series of routes and views throughout the garden. Each tour is led using signage and audio accessed by cell phone. Visit www.sabot.org for details.
LOOK
48 |January 2016
We have always heard that water is good for you, and now you can sip and decide. The new Water Bar Company at 1856 Nacogdoches Road in Carousel Court is serving water for on the go, sipping inside or for special events. These zero-calorie refreshers can be infused with lemon, lime, mint, cherry, orange, apple, cucumber and more. Catering and delivering are available, and you can find them at the Farmer’s Market. Get your hydration on and revitalize with WATER. Call 210-8921292 for additional information
DRINK UP!
MEET THE FUTURE
Six artists — Ricky Armendariz, Waddy Armstrong, Larry Graeber, Mira Hnatyshyn, Victoria Suescum and Sandy Whitby — are part of a pop-up exhibition on view Jan. 2224 at the McNay Art Museum. Visit www.mcnay.org for more information.
SPREADING LOVE
R o b e r t Indiana’s modern and c o n t e m p o r a r y LOVE sculpture, a 6 foot-by-6 foot-by-3 foot iconic example of Pop art, is now part of the McNay’s permanent collection. Constructed from red and gold polychrome aluminum, the sculpture has become a visitor favorite and a popular site for “selfies” and group photos. Bring your camera along and snap a “Love” photo to share.
A BANNER DAY AT THE WITTE
The Witte Museum celebrated a banner day by announcing one of the largest private gifts in its history, a donation of $4 million from Susan Moulton, and naming its first-ever permanent dinosaur gallery, the Naylor Family Dinosaur Gallery, set to open in the spring of 2017. The Naylor Family Dinosaur Gallery will serve as the museum’s first permanent gallery dedicated to dinosaurs. The gallery will give visitors a chance to see 3-D animated dinosaurs in a way that will be similar to how they roamed Texas millions of years ago. The gallery features a life-size tyrannosaurs rex and one of the largest carnivorous Texas dinosaurs, Acrocanthosaurus. The Acrocanthosaurus will stand on footprints molded from actual prints found in Government Canyon State Park. Visitors will actually and virtually excavate dinosaur bones, learn how paleontologists study dinosaurs in a new research lab connected to the gallery and participate in educational public programming and curator-led conversations.
Susan Moulton is the most prolific private benefactor of the Witte museum, and her generosity reverberates across every inch of the 10-acre campus with contributions to the museum at every stage of its current transformation.
RETURNING HEROES HOME RECEIVES $50,000 DONATION
TETCO and the Tom Turner Family Foundation gifted the nonprofit Returning Heroes Home with a $50,000 donation to help wounded warriors. The donation will help fund programs and services for injured soldiers and their families on the road to recovery while at Joint Base Fort Sam Houston.
To date, TETCO has donated $470,000 to Returning Heroes Home. The TETCO company operations include Mission Petroleum Carriers, real estate development, paving and utility construction, and a major franchisee for Subway and Wendy’s as well as significant interests in the Eagle Ford Shale.
San Antonio’s Best Restaurants
www.sanantonioeats.com www.78209magazine.com | 49
www.saeats.com
T he
T N A R U A REST Guide WHERE TO DINE IN ‘09 KEY $ Most Entrees under $10 $$ Most entrees $10 - $20 $$$ Most entrees over $20
Brunch Reservations Suggested Patio Live Entertainment
AMERICAN 20NINE Executive chef Jerry Toomey prepares eclectic wine country cuisine and suggests flavorful wine pairings. The menu selections include duck, salmon, pork and steak. 255 E. Basse, #940 798-9463 www.20ninewine.com $$
410 DINER A ‘50s-themed diner serving homemade soups, a large variety of vegetable dishes, fresh catfish, shrimp, prime steaks, pork chops and chicken. 8315 Broadway 822-6246 www.410diner.com $
ANNE MARIE’S BISTRO Located in the historic Sullivan Carriage House (circa 1896) at the entrance to the San Antonio Botanical Garden. Chef David Gates prepares delicious fresh soups, salads, quiche and sandwiches along with daily specials. 555 Funston Place 826-5800 www.carriagehousebistro.com $ Sat-Sun Brunch
BIRD BAKERY A delightful bakery and small bistro that serves sandwiches, quiche, croissants, pies, cupcakes, cookies, brownies and dessert bars. 5912 Broadway 804-2473 www.birdbakery.com $
BROADWAY 50/50
CORNER BAKERY CAFE
RAFFLES RESTAURANT & BAR
Hand-crafted sandwiches, salads, soups, pastas, and lots of inventive desserts including baby bundt cakes, whoopee pies, hand pies and pound cakes. 255 E. Basse, #100 441-4553 wwwcornerbakerycafe.com $
Neighborhood watering hole and night spot with good food and live entertainment. Tuesday nights they have a steak special that is popular with the locals. 1039 N.E. Loop 410 826-7118 www.rafflesrestaurant $ Live Entertainment
EARL ABEL’S Home-style food served for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Earl Abel’s is a San Antonio landmark that opened in 1933. It is famous for its take-out fried chicken, savory side dishes and homemade pies. 2101 Austin Highway, #175 822-3358 www.earlabelsa.com $
EZ’S Burgers, oak-fired brick oven pizzas, rosemary roasted chicken and award-winning salads, all served in a fun ‘50s-themed atmosphere. 6498 N. New Braunfels 828-1111 $
GOOD TIME CHARLIE’S Texas home-style favorites including catfish, steaks and a chicken-fried steak many claim is the “Best In Texas.” 2922 Broadway 828-5392 www.gtcsatx.com $
J. ALEXANDER’S A contemporary American restaurant, known for its wood-fired cuisine. The menu features a wide selection of classics including prime rib, steak, seafood and rotating specials like Seafood Czarina, Tuscan Steak, Grilled Fish with Mango Papaya Salsa and Chicken Milanese. 255 E. Basse, #1300 824-0275 www.jalexanders.com $$ -$$$
JIM’S RESTAURANT 24-hour diner serving all-day breakfast. They offer hearty choices like steak and eggs, omelets and Tex-Mex huevos rancheros. A comprehensive lunch and dinner menu, too, that includes all the standards - salads, sandwiches and burgers plus nostalgic favorites like patty melts and liver and onions. 4108 Broadway 828-5120 8427 Broadway 826-7001 www.jimsrestaurants.com $
Vintage-themed diner serving fun appetizers, like the Chuck Norris Kickers (chicken and jalapeños wrapped in bacon) and Totchos (Tator Tot Nachos), burgers, BLT’s, Cuban sandwiches and more. 5050 Broadway 826-0069 www.broadway5050.com $
San Antonio theme restaurant where staff dresses up as cartoon characters, super heroes, movie stars and pop heroes. 902 N.E. Loop 410 828-1470 www.magictimemachine.com $
CAPPY’S
MAMA'S CAFE
Lunch, dinner and brunch - Cappy’s is fine dining in the heart of ‘09, serving prime steaks, prime rib, rack of lamb and seafood. 5011 Broadway 828-9669 www.cappysrestaurant.com $$$ Brunch
CAPPYCCINO’S BISTRO Casual dining in a bistro setting. High-quality hamburgers, pizzas, sandwiches and salads are offered for lunch and dinner. 5003 Broadway 828-6860 www.cappyccinos.com $
50 |January 2016
MAGIC TIME MACHINE
A family-friendly atmosphere with burgers, shakes and root beer floats. For adults they serve creative cocktails and large-portioned dinners that include baby-back ribs, fried shrimp, meatloaf and chicken-fried steak. 2442 Nacogdoches 826-8303 www.mamasrestaurants.com $
NOSH Nosh offers great wines, craft brews and small plates that are big on taste. A place to relax and indulge in some really great food. 1133 Austin Highway 826-6674 www.noshsa.com $
SILO ELEVATED CUISINE Silo is listed as one of OpenTable's Top American Restaurants and rated as one of Zagat’s Top Local Picks. They offer New American fare in an elegant atmosphere. There is a prix fixe dinner option available. Signature dishes incude Honey Soy Glazed Atlantic Salmon, Mussels and Linguini and Chicken-Fried Oysters. 1133 Austin Highway 824-8686 www.siloelevatedcusine.com $$
where chefs cook and perform for audiences. 4902 Broadway 822-0300 www.osakasteaknsushi.com $-$$ Reservations suggested
PIRANHA KILLER SUSHI Sushi, Japanese and Pacific Rim cuisine in a lively environment located in the Quarry Marketplace. Up-tempo music with a large bar and lots of creative appetizers and sushi rolls. 260 E. Basse, #101 822-1088 www.piranhakillersushi.com $$
P. F. CHANG’S Located in the Quarry Market, this chain restaurant offers sushi, dim sum, wok classics, noodle dishes and exotic cocktails. 255 E. Basse, #1200 507-1000 www.pfchangs.com $$
STONE WERKS
SUSHI ZUSHI
Good food and a hip atmosphere. There are over 40 beers on tap, a full bar and lots of big screen TVs. The outside patio is a very popular spot to gather with friends for happy hour or to watch a game. Broadway at Basse 823-3508 www.stonewerks.com $-$$ Patio
Traditional Japanese and Latin American influences fused into modern, healthy rolls, rice and noodle dishes. 999 E. Basse 826-8500 www.sushizushi.com $$
TWIN SISTERS BAKERY AND CAFE Healthy food using local ingredients. Coffees and espressos; quiche, pastries, sandwiches, soups and salads. Live music on Friday nights. 6322 N. New Braunfels 822-0761 www.twinsistersbakeryandcafe.com $ Live Entertainment
ZEDRIC’S Chef-prepared healthy pre-packaged meals to go. Meals are low-calorie and can be lowcarb, Paleo or gluten-free. 5231 Broadway 824-6000 www.zedrics.com $
ASIAN HSIU YU Szechuan-style Chinese food. A favorite ‘09 restaurant. Open for lunch and dinner with a brunch on Sundays. 8338 Broadway 828-2273 wwwhsiuyu.com $$ Sun Brunch
KOI KAWA A Japanese restaurant and sushi bar featuring lots of specialty rolls and dishes with complex and interesting flavors. 4051 Broadway 805-8111 www.facebook.com/pages/koikawa $-$$
MON THAI BISTRO Thai food and sushi by chef Mmonrat “Mon” Shirley in a beautiful and tranquil atmosphere with tables that overlook a peaceful outdoor garden and fountain. 4901 Broadway 822-3253 www.monsthai.com $-$$
OSAKA JAPANESE STEAK AND SUSHI Japanese steak and sushi with hibachi tables
SNOW’S VIETNAM Vietnamese cusine with light soups and spring rolls and phenomenal steaming bowls of pho. 3244 Broadway 892-7461 $$
TONG’S THAI Beautiful Thai restaurant with tranquil outdoor patio with koi pond. Traditional Thai food, along with Chinese dishes and sushi. 1146 Austin Highway 829-7345 www.tongsthai.com $$ Patio
BARBECUE BUN ‘N’ BARREL 1960s-era landmark serving BBQ, burgers, brisket and milkshakes in casual digs with iconic neon signage. 1150 Austin Highway 828-2829 www.bunnbarrel.com $
L&L HAWAIIAN BARBECUE Authentic Hawaiian style barbecue. A fusion of Aisian and American cuisine that includes fresh seafood, Lau Lau (pork steamed in taro leaves), savory Kalua pork, chicken and beef all served the Aloha way with rice. 1302 Austin Hwy 474-6699 www.hawaiianbarbecue.com $
THE BARBECUE STATION Authentic wood-smoked barbecue — brisket, ribs, sausage and chicken. 1610 N.E. Loop 410 824-9191 www.barbecuestation.com $ - $$
THE SMOKE SHACK Brisket, pulled pork, sausage, turkey, ribs and chicken plus delicious sides like Smoke Shack Mac, vinegar slaw and spicy creamed corn. 3714 Broadway 829-8448 www.smokeshacksa.com $
78209
COCKTAIL TO TRY S PIRITS
THE THREE EMMAS - SIGNATURE COCKTAIL OF HOTEL EMMA This gin-based cocktail was created to spotlight Otto Koehler’s history with three women named Emma.
Visit Hotel Emma to savor the past and learn more about the intriguing story that inspired this drink. INGREDIENTS/DIRECTIONS Chill glass Absinthe rinse 1 1/2 ounces dry gin — Broker’s Premium Dry Gin 3/4 ounce bitter orange liqueur — Gran Classico Bitter ¼ ounce apricot liqueur — Giffard Abricot du Roussillon
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EUROPEAN
ITALIAN
CAFE DIJON
CERRONI’S PURPLE GARLIC
Comfort food with a French twist: croque monsieur, croque madame, chicken crepes, French onion soup, beef bourguignon and more. 555 East Basse 822-2665 www.cafedijonsa.com $
CRUMPETS European cusine by chef Francois Maeder featuring fresh seafood, pasta, beef and chicken. Restaurant has a large patio surrounded by oak trees, decorative ponds and waterfalls. 3920 Harry Wurzbach 821-5454 www.crumpetssa.com $$-$$$ patio
FREDERICK’S French fusion cusine prepared by chef-owner Frederick Costa. A wonderful culinary experience with dishes that feature flounder, roasted duck, escargot and more. 7701 Broadway 828-9050 www.frederickssa.com $$ - $$$
HOFBRAU & BEER GARDEN A beer garden and popular happy hour destination with hearty food. Offerings include German schnitzel, a chicken-fried ribeye and brisket nachos. 7310 Jones Maltsberger 290-8066 quarryhofbrau.com $
LA MADELEINE A quaint French country cafe with stone fireplaces and quiet nooks where you can enjoy buttery croissants, French onion soup, beef bourguignon or chicken cordon bleu pasta. 4820 Broadway 829-7291 www.lamadeleine.com $-$$
LION & ROSE ENGLISH PUB English pub atmosphere with dark wood, dark ales and satisfying food like Scotch eggs, bangers and mash, shepherd’s pie, and fish and chips. 5148 Broadway 822-7673 www.thelionand rose.com $
GREEK PAPOULI’S GRILL Authentic Greek food with gyros, hummus, Greek salads and more. 255 E. Basse, #384 804-1118 www.papoulis.com $
HAMBURGERS BURGER FI Gourmet burgers and hot dogs made from all natural, never-frozen meat. Vegetarian burgers are available too, plus sides like hand-cut fresh fries, crispy onion rings and frozen custard. 1907 Nacogdoches Road 858-4052 www.burgerfi.com $
CHEESY JANE’S Burgers, sliders, sandwiches, salads and sides plus shakes in many flavors. 4200 Broadway 826-0800 www.cheesyjanes.com $
CHESTER’S HAMBURGERS Rustic casual environment with lots of beers on tap and a genuinely great hamburger. 1006 N.E. Loop 410 805-8600 $
LONGHORN CAFE Casual, family-friendly burger joint with wood picnic tables, a playground for the kids, great appetizers, salads and sides. 1003 Rittiman at Harry Wurzbach 822-7272 www.thelonghorncafe.com $ Patio
ORDER UP
52 |January 2016
A healthy take on your standard burger, fries and shakes with gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options. 999 E. Basse 824-9600 www.orderup-sa.com $
Homemade soups, fresh salads, hand-tossed pizzas and strombolis along with favorites like eggplant parmigiana and spaghetti with homemade meatballs. 1017 Austin Highway 822-2300 www.ceronispurplegarlic.com $$
PAESANOS An upscale landmark Italian resturant with a large menu of classic and contemporary Italian dishes and an extensive wine list. 555 E. Basse 828-5191 www.paesanositalianrestaurant.com $$ - $$$
PIATTI Market-inspired, rustic Italian cuisine in a warm and welcoming environment. 255 E. Basse, #500 832-0300 www.piatti.com $$
SORRENTO Specializing in traditional Italian cuisine withantipasti, seafood and pasta dishes. 5146 Broadway 824-0055 www.sorrentopizzeria.com $$
TRE TRATTORIA Tuscan-inspired Italian fare featuring housemade fresh pasta, antipasti, salumi, signature cast-iron pizzas and simply prepared entrees. The wine list features each region in Italy and offers quartino and bottle service. 4003 Broadway 805-0333 www.tretrattoria.com $$- $$$
MEXICAN/LATIN ADELANTE Serving what they refer to as health-mex. All natural light and fresh dishes with plenty of vegan and vegetarian choices. 21 Brees Blvd. 822-7681 www.adelanterestaurant.com $
BETO’S A unique combination of Mexican street food and Latin American soul food. The fish tacos were voted best fish taco in San Antonio. 8142 Broadway 930-9393 www.betosaltmex.com $
EL MACHITO Chef Johnny Hernandez prepares select mesquite-grilled meats over an open fire in the traditional style of the carne asada of northern Mexico. 7300 Jones Maltsberger 314-3971 www.chefjohnnyhernandez.com $$
FLAIR Organic farm-to-table Mexican street food. 6462 N. New Braunfels Ave. 977-0193 www.flairmexicanstreetfood.com $
LA FONDA Casual dining in a relaxed setting, serving contemporary Mexican cuisine, thoughtfully executed. Open for lunch and dinner with a brunch on Sunday. 8633 Crownhill Blvd. 824-4231 www.lafondaah.com $$ Sun Brunch
PALOMA BLANCA Dishes from the coastal regions of Mexico. Signature dishes include grilled snapper, ceviche, pozole, handmade flautas and tacos al pastor. 5800 Broadway 822-6151 www.palomablanca.net $$
PICANTE GRILL Upscale, chef-prepared gourmet Mexican food with recipes based on the cuisine of the Mexican interior. 3810 Broadway 822-3797 www.picantegrill.com $$
SALSITA’S
VOLARE GOURMET PIZZA
Charming small Mexican restaurant open for breakfast and lunch. Great breakfast tacos, Spanish omelets, homemade soups and a one-of-a-kind orange salsa. 5130 Broadway 826-4900 $
An intimate, family-friendly restaurant serving New York-style thin-crust pizza and other Italian standards. 5054 Broadway 828-3354 www.volarepizza.com $ - $$
SOLUNA COCINA MEXICANA
SOUTHWESTERN
Trendy upscale Mexican restaurant with a lively happy hour, impressive margaritas, Tex Mex favorites and a colorful patio. 7959 Broadway 930-8070 www.calvillosmexicanfood.com $$-$$$ patio
TACO GARAGE Rustic indoor-outdoor concept with several different bars and patios. They serve Tex-Mex breakfast to dinner to a local crowd of regulars and frequently have live music. 8403 Broadway 826-4405 www.tacogarage.com $$ Patio Live Entertainment
TOMATILLOS CANTINA Brightly colored decor, lively music and great food. They feature an extensive list of flavored margaritas, tableside flaming queso flameado, enchiladas, fish and shrimp tacos, sizzling fajitas and more. 3210 Broadway 824-3005 www.tomatillos.com $$
CANYON CAFE Creative dishes influenced by the American Southwest. Among the many offerings are a bison meatloaf, grilled lemon salmon, baja shrimp pasta and fajitas 255 E. Basse, #600 821-3738 www.canyoncafe.com $$
STEAKS THE BARN DOOR Long-standing family-owned steakhouse with Western-style decor, serving steaks and seafood with frequent live music and a full bar. 8400 N. New Braunfels 824-0116 www.thebarndoorrestaurant.com $$ - $$$ Live Entertainment
FLEMING’S STEAKHOUSE High-end steakhouse serving prime aged beef and seafood. 255 E. Basse, #200 824-9463 www.flemingssteakhouse.com $$$
TORCHY’S TACOS Elevated Mexican street food with lots of innovative tacos filled with unexpected ingrediants like salmon, Jamaican jerk chicken and ahi tuna. 999 E. Basse 824-1603 www.torchystacos.com $
URBAN TACO Located in the Quarry Marketplace, this fast casual restaurant offers full cocktail and margarita bar plus innovative Mexican cuisine. They also serve brunch on the weekends. 290 E. Basse, #105 332-5149 www.urbantaco.com $$ Sat-Sun Brunch
PIZZA BRAZA BRAVA Pizzas made in Neapolitan style in a wood fired brick oven. 7959 Broadway 320-2100 $$
CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN Fresh and light California-inspired salads, soups, flatbreads and pizzas. 255 E. Basse 424-2014 www.cpk.com $$
FLORIO’S PIZZA A local favorite with authentic New York style pizza. 7701 Broadway 805-8646 www.floriospizza.com $ - $$
RUTH'S CHRIS Upscale steakhouse that serves prime steaks on sizzling plates as well as delicious seafood and generous desserts. 7720 Jones Maltsberger 821-5051 www.ruthschris.com $$$
TREATS & DESSERTS LA PANADERÍA Artisan bakery that bakes several varieties of fresh bread and pastries daily. They have a large, airy dining area and serve gourmet coffee, soup and sandwiches. 8305 Broadway 375-6746 www.lapanaderia.com $
LILY’S COOKIES Fresh baked home-style cookies to go plus seasonal and special-occasion decorated cookies. 2715 McCullough Ave 832-0886 www.lilyscookies.com $
MENCHIE’S Non-fat, low-fat and regular yogurts in an assortment of flavors with fun toppings you add yourself. 999 E. Basse, Suite 177 824-1104 www.menchies.com $
TRINICAKES CUPCAKERY Handcrafted seasonal cupcakes made daily. 999 E. Basse Road 826-2427 www.trinicakes.com $
GRIMALDI’S PIZZA Casual, Brooklyn-based pizzeria chain serving brick-oven pizzas and calzones. 330 E. Basse, #101 832-8288 www.grimaldispizzeria.com $$
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78209
Wine Dine
For more restaurant reviews visit:
www.saeats.com
Salsita’s caldo de pollo
Pho
n ’ O s Soup in‘ 09
By LAUREN BROWNING Photography By JANICE THACH
Sopa, suppe, potage, zuppa…wherever you are in the world on cold day, soup is the comfort food of choice. Steaming soup can warm the body and soul like no other. There’s something universally compelling when it comes to ingesting hot, flavorful liquid. Even the simplest broth can have a power of its own. Helen Corbitt knew this over 60 years ago when she designed the menu and served as the original chef of the Zodiac, the iconic Neiman Marcus restau54 |January 2016
rant in Dallas. She has many trademarks, but one that continues today, in subsequent Neiman Marcus restaurants as well, is to serve each customer a demitasse of warm chicken broth before the meal. Indeed, soup has stamina. Not only does soup satisfy, comfort and soothe, it even reveals much about its maker. In fact, Ludwig van Beethoven is believed to have said, “Only the pure in heart can make a good soup.” If he is right, try ordering soup as the measure of a good restaurant. I attempted this recently and was delighted to discover a high concentration of assuming and unassuming places for great soups in the area. Earning a long-standing reputation for superb soup execution is Cappy’s Restaurant, a favorite among locals for elevated
casual dining. I spoke with Trevor Lawton, the general manager and former soup maker (known as the “potager” in a French kitchen brigade) to glean some important insights on this role. “Let me first say, I learned everything I know about soups and the classical approach from my mentor, Cathy Tarasovic,” he boasted. Then he explained, “She worked as our soup chef for many years before me and really left us this wonderful legacy we strive to steward with the utmost care. She also left her beloved gumbo recipe.” Presently, Avin fills this prized position under the leadership of executive chef Gabriel Ibarra. Like Trevor, Avin is selftaught and takes Cappy’s “depth of conservation” culinary philosophy to heart. He constantly captures odds and ends
made possible from the other cooks breaking down meat and prepping vegetables. Then he skillfully utilizes these “scraps” for flavor development in his soups. Avin sees potential where other cooks see waste, and his soup specials are the better for it. Born in Trinidad, he may have learned this viewpoint from island living and the necessity of resourcefulness. Soup choices run between $7 and $9. For another take on creative and well-executed soup specials, Silo on Austin Highway is a marvelous choice as well. For the die-hard chicken tortilla soup fans, I discovered there are two camps. One favors brothy and the other, darker and thicker. I am more familiar with the broth version, and you can find tasty variations at Paloma Blanca, Salsita’s, Soluna and probably others as well. However, the richer style reminiscent of chili gravy, with generous chunks of chicken and grated cheese stretching everywhere, can be found at Twin Sisters Bakery and Cafe. I visited with owner Pat Stein, who generously divulged the secret ingredients when I probed. I knew I detected robust tomato and chili spices and colors, but the thickness, I learned, is from pureeing corn tortilla into the base. This preparation is very authentic to many interior Mexican-style soups and sauces — a fine departure from the norm. We are also fortunate to have several tasty Asian restaurants within reach, serving an array of mostly traditional Thai, Japanese and Chinese soups. Alternatively, Frederick’s offers an authentic French Vietnamese soup known as “Pho,” but pronounced “Fuh.” Many times, a dish will be authentic, but not necessarily palatable to a Texan’s taste buds. This bowl of bliss is an exception. Pho, a traditional French-Vietnamese dish, stems from the French classic, pot-au-feu, a hearty soup of boiled beef and vegetables. Pho, however, contains a seasoned broth of Vietnamese influence, rice noodles, Thai basil and cilantro. After living in Houston for some time, I had my share of pho because of the large Vietnamese population. Frederick’s pho surpassed them all, thanks to his pristine style and understated finesse. As a parent, I find the true test of a dish is whether children will eat it. Between my picky and adventurous youngsters, they all slurped it up – quite literally. I ordered it “to go” and especially appreciated Frederick’s deliberate separation of ingredients for takeout, allowing me to pour the hot broth over the fresh ingredients at home as everyone sat down. One order ($14) can serve two or more adults as a first or second course, depending on the hunger level of those present. Brimming with meaty broth and loaded with shaved pieces of perfectly cooked mediumrare beef, it is an umami-delight. (Next try their decadent lobster bisque.) Chicken soup is another story. Around
Salsita’s Tortilla Soup
here, it’s comfort food in a bowl – across cultures and demographics. While a family recipe may trump most restaurant versions, Salsita’s On Broadway hits the mark. Invite your mother (or another cook in the family) and see if their caldo de pollo can compete. It’s a hefty bowl of chicken, vegetables, broth and perhaps even a drumstick floating around – proof it was homemade broth, not from a bouillon cube or something worse. Another favorite for chicken soup along Broadway is Paloma Blanca’s caldito de pollo, featuring chicken, savory broth, rice, vegetables and big chunks of avocado. Both interpretations sold in large bowls fall between $8 and $10 and can easily be split between two or more people. In San Antonio, fideo soup also has a devoted following. Several places in the vicinity make it, but how many are sold alongside some of the best-baked bread in the city? I am referring to La Panaderia, located on Broadway near 410. You may remember their exceptional baked goods sold at the Quarry Farmer’s Market a while back, but last year they opened a storefront and now they sell their gluten-free friendly breads made from sourdough fermented for 48 hours, other specialty breads, as well as lunch fare. You can
order a cup of fideo (or black bean) for $2 or a bowl for $4, but the more preferred route is to select a bread, order a torta combination (many exciting choices await) and then choose either a small salad or a soup as an accompaniment. For those new to the fideo scene, it is a traditional noodle dish originating in Mexico. Chefs take creative liberties, but it mostly consists of thin noodles toasted, then boiled in chicken stock and tomato and sometimes garnished with cotija cheese and cilantro. To toast the noodles actually means to fry them, but owner Jose Caceres carefully mentions how La Panaderia does not fry anything. Period. He takes great pride in offering healthier choices for patrons, including three varieties of sourdough bread for patrons with gluten sensitivities. Be sure to inquire when ordering. As cold days come and go, step out of the green enchilada, cold cuts sandwich or chicken salad comfort zone and choose a piping bowl of soup instead. And for those occasions when there is no time to sit down and savor a meal of soup, there is always the soup bar at Central Market to find variety, quality and efficiency. Soup’s on!
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78209
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Calendar
MADONNA January 10 The AT&T Center
ART // MUSIC // FILM // THEATER // DANCE // CHARITY // OUTDOORS
Through January 2016
ART IN THE GARDEN The San Antonio Botanical Garden New exhibit featuring artist Kim Beck takes place through end of January. The project, One-Way Trail, consists of a series of routes and views throughout the Garden. Each tour is led using signage and audio accessed by cell phone. Garden visitors will find themselves led by unexpected guides, such as a rancher, a poet, an arborist, a child, a dog, and a Buddhist priest. Funded by the Russell H. Rogers Fund for the Arts, this exhibit is a collaboration with Blue Star Contemporary Art Museum. www.sabot.org
January 9
BRIAN REGAN The Majestic Theatre, 8pm Brian Regan is a tremendous standup comedian who has appeared on The Late Show with David Letterman 28 times. Now he’s visiting close to 100 cities each year and selling out some of the most beautiful venues on the continent. www.majesticempire.com
January 9
THE PINK FLOYD LASER SPECTACULAR The Tobin Center, 8pm In its 30 years of touring, Paramount’s Laser Spectacular has become a cult classic, presenting the music of Pink Floyd as
you have never seen it before. Laser Spectacular carries listeners away on a mind-expanding journey driven by cutting-edge effects, highpowered lasers, large screen video projections and lighting effects. www.tobincenter.org
January 9 – 17
THE SAN ANTONIO COCKTAIL CONFERENCE Downtown – various venues Every year we bring together top bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts for educational seminars, guided tastings and cocktail parties. The Cocktail Conference, presented by Houston Street Charities, donates 100 percent of its profits to benefit children.www.sanantoniococktailconference.com
January 10
SPANISH BRUNCH: PAELLA AND FLAMENCO The McNay, 1-3pm A celebration of Spanish art, dance, and food for the whole family. The McNay partners with Casa de España for two Sunday brunches featuring scrumptious Spanish fare and a flamenco performance. Join us as we say hola and adios to Miró: The Experience of Seeing on the first and last weekends of the exhibition. Featuring paella, sangria, aguas frescas, and a flamenco performance by Sonya Jimenez and Fandango Dance Troupe. www.McNayart.org
January 10
MADONNA The AT&T Center, 7pm Madonna announces her first performance ever in San Antonio. The Rebel Heart Tour follows the spring release of Madonna’s Rebel Heart album on Interscope Records. Rave reviews of the album include: Rolling Stone Magazine: “Rebel Heart is a long, passionate, self-referential meditation on losing love and finding purpose in chilling times.” The LA Times: “Rebel Heart, like its creator, pushes through the pain and more often than not lands solidly and with great grace on its feet.” www.attcenter.com
January 11
AN EVENING WITH MACKLEMORE & RYAN LEWIS The Majestic Theatre, 8pm Macklemore & Ryan Lewis are on tour in the United States playing a series of intimate shows at historic theaters. They will perform their five Top 10 hits and continue their commitment to advance issues of equity and justice partnering with organizations dedicated to these same values. www.majesticempire.com
January 13
A MEL BROOKS MUSICAL THE PRODUCERS
SPANISH BRUNCH PAELLA AND FLAMENCO January 10 The McNay
The Tobin Center, 7:30pm Bialystock and Bloom! Those names should strike terror and hysteria in anyone familiar with Mel Brooks' classic cult comedy film. Now as a big Broadway musical, The Producers once again sets the standard for modern, outrageous, in-yourface humor. It is a truly
( EDITOR’S PICK ) January 22
53RD ANNUAL WESTERN AND HERITAGE ART SHOW Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center, 6:30 pm The Western & Heritage Art Show and Sale features exclusive, original artworks by artists throughout the Southwest region. The participating artists display and sell their art with a portion of each sale being donated to the various charities supported by Alamo Kiwanis. The artwork includes oil paintings, watercolors, etchings, sculptures, and other various original works. www.kiwanisartshow.com
56 |January 2016
"boffo" hit, winning a record 12 Tony Awards and wowing capacity crowds night after night. www.tobincenter.org
Nicholas Payton on trumpet; musical director Gerald Clayton on piano; Joe Sanders on bass; and Justin Brown on drums. www.thecarver.org
January 15
January 26 - 31
WINTER ARTS & CRAFTS SHOW The San Antonio River Walk, 8pm Enjoy a stroll along the picturesque River Walk, stop to talk to our vendors who will share information about their craft, and take home an item that will enhance your home, wardrobe or garden. www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com
January 19 & 20
FIRST ANNUAL SAN ANTONIO FEMINIST FILM FESTIVAL: SCENE AND HEARD SHOWINGS Alamo Draft House Park North, 6-9:30pm View four films that stress the education, health care and political history of women in the current era. The films show positive reflections of increased empowerment for all women. www.facebook.com/SanAntonioFeministFilmFestival
KINKY BOOTS The Majestic Theatre, times vary Broadway’s huge-hearted, highheeled hit. With songs by Grammy® and Tony®-winning pop icon Cyndi Lauper, this joyous musical celebration is about the friendships we discover and the belief that you can change the world when you change your mind. Inspired by true events, Kinky Boots takes you from a gentlemen’s shoe factory located in Northampton to the glamorous catwalks of Milan. www.majestic empire.com
February 4 – 28
THE DIVINERS The Vexler, show times vary This marvelously theatrical play is the story of a disturbed young man and his friendship with a disenchanted preacher in southern Indiana in the early 1930s. www.vexler.org
January 21
JANET JACKSON The AT&T Center, 8pm Janet Jackson's tour is not only Unbreakable, it is now unstoppable thanks to her fans across North America. The multiple Grammy® Award-winner and multi-platinum selling artist announced a second North American leg to her Unbreakable World Tour with an additional 27 new cities added to what has become one of the most highly anticipated international tours. www.attcenter.com
January 23
MONTEREY JAZZ FESTIVAL ON TOUR Carver Community Cultural Center, 8-10pm The Monterey Jazz Festival, the longest continuously running jazz festival in the world, returns to the road in 2016. Featuring critically acclaimed Grammy®-winning jazz artists, the latest edition of the allstar tour band features Raul Midon on guitar and vocals; Ravi Coltrane on tenor and soprano saxophones;
February 5
JERRY SEINFELD The Majestic Theatre, 7pm America’s premier comedian, Jerry Seinfeld, will be performing his signature stand-up routine at the Majestic Theatre. Seinfeld has been hailed for his uncanny ability to joke about the little things in life that relate to audiences everywhere. Seinfeld now sets his sights on performing both nationally and internationally in 2016. www.majesticempire.com
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FOR MORE ON SAN ANTONIO ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT VISIT WWW.SAARTS.COM
JAN/FEB
2016
ART // MUSIC // FILM // THEATER // DANCE // CHARITY // OUTDOORS SESAME STREET LIVE February 6-7 The Freeman Coliseum
February 5 – February 7
MARDI GRAS ARTS & CRAFTS SHOW River Walk, 11am Enjoy a stroll along the picturesque River Walk, stop to talk to our vendors who are anxious to share information about their craft. Participating vendors display some of the most unusualhandmade merchandise available anywhere. Whether it’s jewelry, pottery or fine art you are interested in, you are sure to find what you’re looking for. www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com
February 6
A NIGHT AT THE OSCARS Boerne Performing Arts, 7:30pm The Orchestra of the Stars will feature the best and brightest artists and soloists as they present a lively and entertaining performance specializing in the music that “made” the movies. With its unique presentation of TV and movie themes, ranging from Superman to James Bond, ET to Schindler’s List, this premier touring ensemble of America’s finest musicians will kick off the fifth anniversary season of Boerne Performing Arts. Come celebrate in “red carpet” style. www.boerneperformingarts.com
February 6
JANET JACKSON January 21 The AT&T Center
DANCING WITH THE STARS: LIVE! ‘DANCE ALL NIGHT TOUR’ The Majestic Theatre, 8pm Launching this winter, Dancing with the Stars: Live! - Dance All Night Tour features a bigger cast than ever before, including pro dancers Lindsay Arnold, Sharna Burgess, Artem Chigvintsev, Valentin Chmerkovskiy, Keo Motsepe, Peta Murgatroyd, Emma Slater, Alan Bersten, Brittany Cherry and Jenna Johnson with more casting to be announced. In this all-new production, the dancers are freed from the ballroom to bring you a 90-minute action-packed live show. www.majesticempire.com
February 6 – 7
SESAME STREET LIVE Freeman Coliseum, show times vary No children’s television show has had anywhere near the impact as this educational and cultural phenomenon… and with Sesame Street Live tickets, the entire family can come out and enjoy learning from beloved characters including Big Bird, Ernie, Bert, Cookie Monster, Elmo, Oscar and the rest of the Muppets live on stage. www.freemancoliseum.com
February 6-7
OPERA PICCOLA Charline McCombs Theatre Opera Piccola of San Antonio presents a new Star Trek version of Mozart’s hilarious classic, The Abduction from the Seraglio, featuring the Enterprise crew, Klingons, and space girls. Sung in English, the production celebrates the 50th anniversary of the iconic sci-fi series. Kristin Roach leads the full human orchestra and chorus of Klingons. Opening night will feature a Star Trek costume contest with a cash prize of $250.00. www.operapiccolasa.com.
February 12 – 14
PETER PAN The Tobin Center, show times vary Your imagination takes flight on a spectacular journey to Neverland with its adventurous boy hero, Peter Pan, presented by Ballet San Antonio. www.tobincenter.org
February 14
BUD LIGHT MARDI GRAS RIVER PARADE AND FESTIVAL River Walk, 11am – 7pm
A procession of decorated river barges will transform the San Antonio River Walk into a floating Bourbon Street. Crews of costumed revelers and live entertainers will celebrate Mardi Gras San Antonio style. Enjoy live music on Arneson Stage from 11am to 7pm, and a festival of food, arts and crafts, activities and more at La Villita. Parade takes place 3-5pm. www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com
February 17
BAND OF THE ROYAL MARINES AND HIGHLAND PIPERS AND DANCERS Lila Cockrell Theatre, 7:30pm Royal Marines musicians are regarded as one of the most versatile in the military musical world. Musicians are required to attain a high standard on both a string and a wind instrument. The corps of drums has a glittering presence at the front of all Royal Marine Bands on the march and gives a visual impact that is second to none. www.artssa.org
February 19
FAMILY FLASHLIGHT NIGHT The San Antonio Botanical Garden, 6 – 8:30pm When the sun sets, it’s your chance to see a different side of the Garden. Encounter nighttime insects, stargaze, and test your directional skills in a light
maze. Be sure to bring your flashlight and maybe a sweater in case it’s a cool night. Kids and adults alike will enjoy this rare look at the Garden. www.sabot.org
February 21 and 22
9TH ANNUAL ON AND OFF FREDERICKSBURG ROAD STUDIO TOUR Bihl Haus Arts, times vary Presented by Bihl Haus Arts, the 9th Annual On and Off Fredericksburg Road Studio Tour offers art enthusiasts and the public a personal glimpse into the private homes, art studios and galleries of more than 70 established artists, including painters, sculptors, metalsmiths and photographers. Additionally, some 200 musicians, poets, theater troupes and dance groups help make this annual event the biggest art studio tour in San Antonio. www.OnandOffFred.org
February 25
TAO: SEVENTEEN SAMURAI Boerne Performing Arts, 7:30pm Back to Boerne by popular demand, this exciting new show will bring you athletic bodies and contemporary costumes combined with explosive Taiko drumming and innovative choreography. www.boerneperformingarts.com
TAO: SEVENTEEN SAMURAI February 25 Boerne Performing Arts
BUD LIGHT MARDI GRAS RIVER PARADE February 14 The River Walk
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RESTAURANT WEEK BENEFITS CULINARIA’S URBAN FARM
NEWS ( By LESLIE FOLEY )
Toasting the New Year is a blast with this month’s Cocktail Conference and Restaurant Week. Catch the scoop on those fun happenings and the sizzle on new locations for Ruth’s Chris Steak House and The Lion & Rose. We even help you get dressed for these occasions with details about Robert Graham’s new fashion outlet. And we spotlight giving back with Let’s Rodeo Ball and news about Ronald McDonald House Charities ground breaking. Cheers!
OUTSIDE ‘09
Now that you have recovered from the holidays, it’s time once again to imbibe at the San Antonio Cocktail Conference, scheduled for Jan, 14-17. Named “One of the top three cocktail festivals in the country” by Fodor’s, the San Antonio Cocktail Conference ranks among the nation’s most dynamic gatherings for cocktail enthusiasts and professional mixologists. Over the course of four days, guests enjoy exclusive access to lectures and demonstrations with the industry’s top talent, as well as an impressive range of beverage tastings, paired dinners and cocktail-centric nightlife. Go to www.sanantoniococktailconference.com for classes, schedules and locations. Grab your tickets early for this adventure in cocktails, cuisine and cooking.
IT’S HAPPY HOUR!
58 |January 2016
Celebrate San Antonio by dining out Jan. 18-23. Participating restaurants will offer an array of prix fixe menus encompassing three-course lunch and/or dinner selections within two different pricing tiers. All participating restaurants will donate a portion of their proceeds to benefit Culinaria’s Urban Farm. Coming to life in Spring of 2016, the Urban Farm is a strategic extension of Culinaria in the form of education and the homegrown effort of many passionate chefs, food professionals, farmers, volunteers, sponsors and a very enthusiastic staff. For meals ordered during San Antonio Restaurant Week, participating restaurants will donate $1 from each lunch menu and $2 from each dinner menu. Website: www.culinariasa.org or call 210-822-9555 for restaurant listings and locations. Let’s Rodeo Ball is one of the major fundraising events for the S.A.L.E. Scholarship Fund. This glitzy, upscale party features top entertainment, great food, dancing and fun, not just for fans of rodeo but for all of San Antonio. This year’s performers include Big & Rich, SA Lights and Gabe Garcia. Grab your boots and hat, and head over to Freeman Coliseum for a yee-haw of a time! Let's Rodeo Ball will be Saturday, January 16, 6:30 - 11:30 p.m. Visit www.sarodeo.com for tickets and information.
LET’S RODEO BALL
Las Casas Performing Arts Scholarship Competition will be held Sunday, May 1, at the Charline McCombs Empire Theatre; however, the deadline to submit an application is Friday, Feb. 5. Attention, all actors, singers, dancers and those Broadway-bound: This is your opportunity to shine and perhaps earn a scholarship. Visit www.lascasasfoundation.org for details, deadlines and award categories.
2016 JOCI AWARDS
That’s the sound of steaks sizzling in an 1800-degree broiler at the newest Ruth’s Chris Steak House, located at 17803 La Cantera Terrace. Since 1965, cooking steaks has been done that particular way, as in founder Ruth Fertel’s way. The restaurant held a pre-opening rehearsal dinner in midNovember and opened to the public the following week. I think all went well at the rehearsal, and guests made a donation to benefit charitable causes.
HEAR THE SIZZLE?
ROBERT GRAHAM FASHION OUTLET OPENS
If you didn’t get everything on your holiday wish list, worry no more. The new Robert Graham retail fashion outlet has opened in The Shops at La Cantera. Collectors will have yet another location where they can find colorful offerings for both men and women. Bright colors, funky contrasting patterns, one-of-akind trims and stunning embroideries offer shoppers/collectors colorful wear recognizable as Robert Graham. See w w w. r o b e r t g r a ham.us for fashionistas.
Ronald McDonald House Charities of San Antonio, Texas, Inc., broke ground in December for a fourth home to be built in the Medical Center area on Sid Katz Drive, a few steps from their second home. The 25,000-square-foot house will serve as a home-awayfrom-home for families who have a child undergoing treatment at a nearby medical facility.
RONALD’S FOURTH HOUSE
The Lion & Rose British Restaurant & Pub recently opened its fourth and newest location at The Rim, 17627 La Cantera Parkway. The 5,000-square-foot setting, owned by restaurateur Allen Tharp (who opened the first one in Alamo Heights in 2004), differs in design from all its other locations. “The focus will be a central bar in the middle of the restaurant with an impressive video wall, as well as the addition of two patios,” Tharp said. “We will also offer flexible seating to accommodate larger parties. Overall, it will have a more casual atmosphere to appeal to a younger demographic, offering a wider selection of European and craft beers from throughout the country.” Other highlights of the new restaurant include a custom tap system serving 32 European and craft beers chilled at 32 degrees, a state-ofthe-art video system for sports viewing, a shaded patio area and a patio with a fire pit, as well as a parking garage for customer convenience. Hours are 7 a.m.- 2 a.m. Monday-Sunday. Kitchen service is open until midnight daily. For more information, visit www.thelionandrose.com or call 210-798-5466.
NEW LOCATION, NEW LOOK
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78209
ON THE MARKET
DON’T INVITE BURGLARS TIPS TO SAFEGUARD YOUR HOME
Successful burglars have lots in common — home owners who unwittingly give invitations to robbery. Here’s how thieves thank you for your generosity.
Thanks for the ladder! Call me a social climber if you will, but I did discover a ladder in your backyard. Thank you for leaving it where I could lean it against your home and easily reach a second-story window.
I love your trash. Can’t tell you how much fun I have driving around neighborhoods on trash day when the empty boxes on the curb reveal what wonderful new toys you have.
Overgrown trees are great for me. I noticed you hadn’t trimmed trees and shrubs around your home, so I knew I’d have a wonderful place to hide while I worked to break into your home.
I’m looking for uncut grass and unclaimed newspapers. I drove by and noticed your lawn was uncut, newspapers were piling up on the front steps, and your shades were always closed. To me, that’s an open invitation.
I’m liking you on Facebook! Thanks for posting your family vacation pictures on Facebook. It’s reassuring to me that you’ll be on the boat/beach/slopes all day today.
I’m leaving pizza flyers on neighborhood doors. I canvas neighborhoods leaving flyers on doors — then return to see what houses haven’t removed them.
I’m following you on your geotracking app. Where are you? When you use popular geotracking apps, such as FourSquare and Glympse, I know when you’re not home. Web sites such as www.pleaserobme.com help me keep track of your whereabouts.
Thanks for not closing the blinds. I’ll drive or walk through your neighborhood at night, before you close the blinds, looking through the windows to pick my targets.
NOVEMBER 78209 HOME SALES
The following are home sales for Alamo Heights ISD and North East ISD in ZIP code 78209 for Nov. 1-31, 2015:
78209 in Alamo Heights ISD: Total Sales - 21 Average Sales Price - $527,168 Median Sales Price - $420,000
78209 in Northeast ISD: Total Sales - 11 Average Sales Price - $363,052 Median Sales Price - $278,000
Total Sales in 78209 - 32 Average Sales Price - $470,753 Median Sales Price - $373,787 Average Price Per Square Foot - $203.29 Average Days on Market - 59
Source: San Antonio Board of REALTORS®
60 |January 2016
HOME PRICES ALAMO HEIGHTS ISD NORTHEAST ISD
700,000
650,000
600,000
550,000
500,000
450,000
400,000
350,000
300,000
250,000
200,000 150,000 100,000
AVERAGE SALE PRICE
MEDIAN SALE PRICE
AVERAGE SALE PRICE
MEDIAN SALE PRICE
78209 09 - LIVES
MOONLIGHT FUND GALA
Texas based charity The Moonlight Fund Inc. hosted its Second Annual Gala titled An Evening of Enchantment on September 26th, 2015. The gala was a success and it raised more than $100,000 that will help military and civilian burn and blast survivors and their families throughout Texas. With more than 260 attendees, the elegant event delighted its audience with beautiful performances, powerful testimonials, exciting live and silent auctions and a first class art show.
Volunteer director Dana Bodero, event designer Hillary Swindell, Co - founder Celia Belt and board member Catrina Kendrick.
Moonlight Fund - gala aeriliest
Issace Gallegos, Hillary Swindell, Celia Belt, Shilo Harris.
Event designer HIllary Swindell with Jarred Buckler and Vanessa Murillo.
Board member David MIller with wife Kelly.
Hoop Entertainer
Board member David MIller with wife Kelly.
62 |January 2016
POLICE BLOTTER POLICE BLOTTER 78209
ALAMO HEIGHTS POLICE DEPARTMENT - CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS DIVISION
ALAMO HEIGHTS POLICE DEPARTMENT CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS DIVISION
6116 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 822-2164 FAX (210) 822-7111
VEHICLE BURGLARY 11/30/15 100 blk. Harrison An unlocked vehicle was unlawfully entered during overnight hours to gain access to a purse left in open view on the back seat. GARAGE BURGLARY 11/30/15 900 blk. Cambridge Oval An unsecured detached garage was unlawfully entered while a resident was away on vacation. Coolers and miscellaneous other property was stolen. GARAGE BURGLARY 11/30/15 300 blk. Rosemary A garage was forcibly entered while a resident was away on vacation. The resident was unsure if anything was stolen at the time of the report. AGGRAVATED ASSAULT, WEAPON 11/30/15 4600 blk. Broadway Two witnesses observed a male subject pull a female from a wheelchair and assault her. Both witnesses ran to the aid of the woman but stopped when the male subject pulled a knife on them, threatened them and ran away at the urging of the female. The female stated the male subject was her boyfriend and provided his personal information. The female refused to cooperate further in the investigation. VEHICLE BURGLARY 11/30/15 100 blk. Harrison An unlocked vehicle was unlawfully entered during overnight hours and miscellaneous music CDs were taken. NARCOTICS VIOLATION 12/01/15 600 blk. Austin Hwy. Upon approach to a vehicle stopped for a traffic violation an officer detected the strong odor of burning marijuana coming from the vehicle. Further investigation revealed two subjects in the vehicle were in possession of marijuana and assorted drug paraphernalia. Both subjects were released with citations, and additional narcotics charges will be filed with the District Attorney at a later date. WANTED PERSON 12/01/15 100 blk. Claywell The operator of a bicycle contacted in
64 |January 2016
the neighborhood for riding the bicycle during late night hours without lights was discovered to have an active arrest warrant issued by Bexar County. The subject was transported to jail. THEFT 12/02/15 500 blk. Circle Street A UPS package delivered to the front porch of a residence was stolen. NARCOTICS VIOLATION 12/02/15 600 blk. Austin Hwy Upon approach to a vehicle stopped for a traffic violation an officer detected the strong odor of burning marijuana coming from the vehicle. Further investigation revealed a quantity of marijuana, methamphetamines and narcotics paraphernalia designed for inhaling the methamphetamines. The driver was transported to jail. STALKING 12/02/15 300 blk. Montclair Officers were dispatched for a male subject on the property where his estranged wife lives after having been issued criminal trespass warnings by the estranged wife and the property owner. Despite being warned on multiple occasions by police, the male subject has been reported to have stalked her on multiple occasions. The male subject had in his possession license plate numbers of several vehicles in the parking lot where his estranged wife lives and admitted he was trying to see if she had any boyfriends. The male subject was deemed to be a danger to others and was booked into jail for stalking. WANTED PERSON 12/03/15 600 blk. Austin Hwy. The driver of a vehicle stopped for a traffic violation was found to have an active arrest warrant issued by Bexar County for probation violation/narcotics offenses. The driver was transported to jail. IDENTITY THEFT 12/05/15 100 blk. Cloverleaf A resident was informed by a bank that someone had opened several accounts using his personal identification information. An identification security company confirmed the resident’s email had been compromised.
78209 VINTAGE VIEW
The Barn Door with its authentic relics of the West is a popular spot for a great steak dinner.