www.78209magazine.com
OCTOBER 2018
209 78 78209 MAGAZINE
Gibson’s Costume Shop Nearly 100 Years of Transformation
The Eisenbergs Building a Forever Family
Sorrento’s A Little Taste of Italy
Contents 78209 MAGAZINE | OCTOBER 2018
14 Business Profile
Gibson’s Costume Shop has transformed San Antonians for four generations.
16 Profile
Ron and Gina Eisenberg choose raising children over retirement.
18 Home
Jerry Horvath decided to downsize and found the perfect place to call home.
DEPARTMENTS 10
Trending in ‘09
26
Neighborhood News
12 30 32 40 42 48
The Scoop
Shop 78209
School News
Pets - Ask Roxie In the Loop
Community Calendar
49
Community Leader
56
Wine & Dine
52 58 60 62
64 65 66
Restaurant Guide Church Directory Outside ‘09
Arts & Entertainment Calendar Police Blotter
On The Market Vintage View
6 | October 2018
Publisher J. MICHAEL GAFFNEY Editor SUSAN THORNTON Contributors ERNIE ALTGELT, ROBYN BARNES MEGAN BOLYARD, RON AARON EISENBERG, LESLIE FOLEY, BERIT MASON, EDMOND ORTIZ, AL RENDON, HAYLEE UPTERGROVE MARTIN WADDY Associate Editor HAYLEE UPTERGROVE Graphic Design TAMARA HOOKS, MARIA JENICEK Online Media RALEIGH HART, TUESDAY SHAW Advertising Sales CINDY JENNINGS, PATRICIA MCGRATH Administration & Customer Service NANCY A. GAFFNEY
For Advertising information: (210) 826-5375 email: info@78209magazine.com
Published by
8603 Botts Lane, San Antonio, TX 78217 FAX 210-826-2856 www.pixelworkscorporation.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 ©2018 Pixelworks Corporation.
Editor’s Letter
78209 MAGAZINE
Dear Readers,
It’s finally fall! I love sitting outside on a cool, crisp morning sipping on a cup of hot tea. There’s just something about pumpkins that make people feel happy; it’s the beginning of the holiday season. This month’s cover brings back so many warm and fuzzy feelings of dressing my boys up in costumes from dalmatians to dinosaurs to Ninja Turtles and trying to keep up as they ran through the neighborhood from house to house, filling their pumpkins with candy. It was always so much fun to see the costumes that people came up with for their kids. Chances are that many of you have visited Gibson’s Costume Shop down on Broadway a time or two to rent a costume for Halloween or another event. Read the Business Profile in this issue to learn more about how seamstress Jimmie Gibson started a business in her family’s grocery store in 1925. It has transformed ‘09ers and many other San Antonians with all of the costumes they’ve needed for nearly one hundred years. The store is now run by Gibson’s great-grandchildren. Family is important in 78209, and roots run deep. In our profile you’ll read about a couple, Ron and Gina Eisenberg, who after only three years of marriage adopted their granddaughter and just a few months later their twin grandsons, making them a “forever family.” This decision has changed their lives and brought them more blessings than they could’ve ever imagined. Our Wine & Dine article this month focuses on a cozy, familyowned Italian restaurant on Broadway. Continuing the quality service and delicious recipes created by her father, Margherita Ciccone has taken over ownership of the restaurant with her mother at her side and has maintained a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Our writer, Haylee, has highlighted some of their most delicious dishes. You’ll definitely want to plan a night out, or even lunch very soon to see what she’s talking about. If you haven’t already, pick up a pumpkin or two on your next trip to HEB, grab a few bags of candy and get ready for the voices of those little ghosts and goblins yelling “trick or treat!” Happy fall, y’all,
Contributors
MEGAN BOLYARD Photographer
Megan Bolyard is a photographer for 78209 Magazine. She lives in San Antonio with her husband of 20 years, Mike, and their two children whom she adores. She has been a professional photographer for more than 10 years and owns her own photography business. Megan loves photographing families and children and takes every shoot as a challenge to create something fun and unique. It is her belief that captured memories should be cherished and affordable.
LESLIE FOLEY Writer
SUSAN THORNTON Editor
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR / SUBSCRIPTIONS / FOLLOW US To contact Editor: email susan@78209magazine.com To view us online: visit 78209magazine.com To Subscribe - $15.95 (one year) Contact us at: 8603 Botts Lane, San Antonio, Texas 78217 or (210) 826-5375 Follow us on Facebook - Instagram and Twitter
8 | October 2018
Leslie Foley, columnist for In The Loop 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. 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.
Trending in ‘09
78209 MAGAZINE
CONTENT BEYOND THE PAGE
78209magazine.com
On Our Cover
Check out stories about the extraordinary community of ‘09. In every issue we profile a notable ‘09er, a local business, and feature a dining review and the inspired decor and design of a beautiful home. Check out happenings in Neighborhood News, School and Sports News, Inside the Loop, and Outside ‘09.
Photographer Megan Bolyard finds some eager trick-or-treaters ready for Halloween
Catch Us On Social Media For These Trending Stories. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
Stay Connected Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
/78209magazine
Ghosts, Ghouls & Goblins
Dress your little one up in something cute, sweet or scary - or all three!
Pumpkin Spice & Everything Nice
It’s finally the socially-acceptable season to order that pumpkin spice latte you’ve been craving all year.
Cozy Autumn
October brings the perfect weather to San Antonio for a backyard fire pit and some marshmallow roasting!
@78209magazine @78209magazine
#onlyin'09 Did You Know ?
Get Checked!
It’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month, so take care of your health and get yourself checked. It’s never too early!
10 | October 2018
Winged Wonders
Monarch butterflies have begun making their path through Texas.
Patch Picks
Autumn is the perfect time to head to one of the local pumpkin patches and grab yourself the perfect soon-to-be Jack-O’-Lantern!
You can get your copy of 78209 Magazine at over 100 locations in Alamo Heights, Oak Park and Terrell Hills, including HEB, Whole Foods and Central Market stores.
The Scoop 78209 MAGAZINE
NEW AND NOTEWORTHY IN ‘09
BY RON AARON EISENBERG
The Pautz Pescasio Ballet studio has opened at 8126 Broadway in the former Turner Street Productions location.
Turner Street Productions Morphs Into Ballet Studio
Turner Street Productions, a guitar studio and teaching complex, closed at 8126 Broadway St. more than a year ago. Now, however, the building has come to life as home for a new ballet studio – Pautz Pescasio Ballet. Sarah Pautz and her husband, Jayson Pescasio, recently leased the 6,733square-foot space. They have opened a ballet studio for students who are serious about ballet. Pautz and Pescasio were principal dancers with Ballet San Antonio. That’s where they met and established a friendship. They married on March 16, 2017, on St. Simons Island, Georgia. “Our studio is brand new,” Pautz said. “Pautz Pescasio Ballet is a training program for serious dancers age seven to 18. We take dancers who already know they love ballet and want to improve in the art of ballet. We want this to be our students ‘happy place.’ I was the original principal female dancer for Ballet San Antonio for seven years. I also danced in Europe for multiple companies.” She is retired now from dance and loves to teach, as does her husband. Pautz said she was looking for a space that was almost ready to go. The former Turner Street space turned out to be perfect for the new school.
Battle Brewing Between Developer and Residents on E. Sunset and Terra Alta
A proposal to change the zoning on two-plus acres at 328 E. Sunset Dr. and 319/321 E. Terra Alta and to build up to 28 single-family homes is under attack from neighboring residents. Local developer John Downes, Askeaton Realty LLC, recently purchased the properties. He met with a zoning commission member, District 10 Councilman Clayton Perry’s staff expert, on zoning issues, and Oak Park Northwood Neighborhood Association board members to discuss his plans for the site. 12 | October 2018
Sal Flores, principal of Bendicion Engineering, the firm retained by Downes, wrote in a letter to neighboring residents that Downes’ plans include changing the zoning on the E. Terra Alta side of the property to IDZ (Infill Development Zone). Downes wants the zoning change so he can construct a road through the property, from E. Sunset to E. Terra Alta, and build 28-single family homes on the site. The proposed 3-story homes would sell for $650,000 and more. The tract is currently zoned R5 and NP-10. That designation would limit construction to a small number of single family homes. “Downes may be willing to change the plans to accommodate neighborhood concerns,” Flores said. An insider at the zoning commission (who asked to remain anonymous because they weren’t cleared to talk to media), said he believes, “Staff will not support the zoning request because it would drastically change the character of the neighborhood.” Without major changes to Downes’ development plans, the Oak Park Northwood Neighborhood Association Board is not expected to approve of the project. At press time for 78209 Magazine, Flores told the Neighborhood Association his client, developer Downes, is dropping his request to change zoning on the Terra Alta side of the property to IDZ. Instead, he’s asking for an NP-8 designation, from the current NP-10 which would give him an additional lot on which to build a home. Downes has also sliced the number of proposed homes to be built on the E. Sunset side of the site, cutting the total number of homes from 28 to 13 or 14, according to Flores.
New Dental Office Coming to Broadway
Although it sits back from both Broadway and E. Sunset, many folks have seen and admire the old, small, stone house that was recently purchased by Dentist Bart T. Wilson of Mission Orthodontics. If he wins his request for a zoning change, the stone structure will be demolished to make way for a two-story, 3,200-square-foot office building. The home currently has an E. Sunset address (106 E. Sunset). However, Wilson hopes to add a driveway into the parking lot off Broadway. If that’s done, he can request an address on Broadway. The Oak Park Northwood Neighborhood Association Board voted to approve and support Wilson’s request for a zoning change. The property sits across the street from the old Patricia’s Day Spa, which was recently demolished. No word yet on what may be coming to that site.
Barn Door Restaurant To Open Secret Door Speakeasy
Randy Stokes, restaurant entrepreneur and owner of The Barn Door Restaurant, has long dreamed of opening a speakeasy – a hidden door, prohibition-era watering hole. Now, he is about to make that happen. Stokes is carving out a 500-square-foot space in his restaurant for a hidden speakeasy. It will seat 32 people. Patrons will enter through a secret door on the west side of the building. “Entry will be via reservation only,” Stokes said. “Patrons will have to text to a number to request a reservation. They will be able to reserve a table for one to two hours. Once they text the request, we will text them back confirming the time and the number of people in their group, and we will send them a code to punch into the key pad for entry.” Stokes said the speakeasy will be beautifully decorated, featuring booths seating up to six people plus a scattering of small tables. There will be no food served in the speakeasy. Bartenders/servers will ask each patron 12 open-ended questions to help figure out what they like to drink. Then the server will craft the drink for each customer. All of the shaken drinks will be made behind the bar. The stirred drinks will be handcrafted tableside. Stokes has penciled in the opening for late December or early January 2019. Initial speakeasy hours will be 6 p.m. to midnight on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. The bar will feature glasses and stemware from the 1920s and ‘30s. “Old timers may remember the Barn Door had a ‘Service Bar’ on a side of the restaurant where the speakeasy is being built,” he said. “That section of the Door was a private restaurant, so management could serve liquor by the glass, which was prohibited by San Antonio through the early 1970s. We’re taking the Door back to where it was 40 years ago.” Stokes visited speakeasies in New York, Nashville, and elsewhere to get ideas for his establishment.
The Barn Door has plans to open a speakeasy. Patrons will make reservations via text and enter through a secret hidden door.
Why a speakeasy? “I am doing this because I think there is a hole in the market to cater to people who want a craft cocktail served in a small, intimate setting,” Stokes explained. “The speakeasy will be a place to see, but not to be seen.”
Quarry Village Starbucks Shuttered
Starbucks District Manager Eric Gonzalez confirmed the company closed its Quarry Village location at 320 East Basse Rd (near the Trader Joe’s) on September 30. The Starbucks at 255 Basse Rd. in the Alamo Quarry Market will remain open. The move disappointed some residents in the Artesa Apartments that sit above the Starbucks and other retail stores in the center. One person, who asked to remain anonymous, said, “I am sad to see them close. It was so convenient for me to grab a cup of coffee on my way to work. I know there’s a Starbucks across Basse in the Quarry, but it’s not easy to get there from where I live, with so much traffic in the morning.” She speculated the Quarry Village store was closing because of the competition from the other Starbucks. However, a Starbucks Quarry Village employee said, “I know lots of our customers think we’re closing because of the other store, but that’s not the case. We’re profitable, but not as profitable as management would like. The good news is all of us have been offered jobs at the other store and many have accepted. Some of our folks are already working there.” Gonzalez said, “We always try to accommodate our people when we close a store.” www.78209magazine.com | 13
Business Profile
78209 MAGAZINE
‘09 ENTREPRENEURS AND PROFESSIONALS
GIBSON COSTUME SHOP ‘09’s Truly “Transformative Outfitter” BY ERNIE ALTGELT PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARTIN WADDY
In today’s rapidly changing economic environment, many companies truly can be considered transformative – think Apple, Amazon or Google. These three giants have revamped the landscape in ways never before imagined. It’s really quite amazing how they’ve changed us. Equally amazing is that right here in 78209, there exists our very own transformative enterprise that’s been refashioning us from head to toe for decades. For almost a century, the venerable Gibson Costume Shop has been giving its clientele the opportunity to assume the persona of almost anyone or, at times, anything. Thanks to an inventory of 80,000-plus incredibly real and/or wildly fantastic quality costumes, this is one outfitter that has made slipping out of the ordinary and into something a little different a snap.
14 | October 2018
Gibson Costume Shop was established in 1925 by Mrs. Jimmie Gibson, a local woman with a head for business and a knack for sewing. Her costume shop grew out of a modest Gibson family-operated grocery store located on San Antonio’s near East Side. Business was good until it was muscled out by a large, newly-arrived chain known as the Piggly Wiggly. Unable to effectively compete, Jimmie “masked” her disappointment and simply refocused. She was always an excellent seamstress and had developed a following making custom dresses as a side gig. It was the Roaring ‘20s, flappers were all-the-rage and the fashions were fabulous. A party atmosphere existed even in the old Alamo City, and everyone wanted to look his or her best. So, postgrocery, she turned to the sewing machine.
While dressmaking would prove to be lucrative, many popular social occasions called for the attendees to be in costume. The question “Could Mrs. Gibson help here too?” was frequently asked. Not known for saying “no,” she obliged, and it wasn’t long before fun and fancy getups became this imaginative woman’s fulltime forte. She would create each ensemble, including all of the complementary paraphernalia, then rent the same to the excited patron. When returned, it was cleaned, stored and ready to be fitted for the next gala. Jimmie would run the almost one-of-a-kind emporium well into the 1960s before her children took over. Currently, the costume shop Jimmie Gibson had a is owned by her great grandchildren. Now that is a head for business and a family business! knack for sewing. As the establishment and its ever-expanding inventory grew, new digs were eventually needed. In She started as a 1957, after designing and constructing its own builddressmaker, but became ing at 111 Allensworth Street near Broadway and known for unique and Hildebrand, the business moved and is still there imaginative costumes. today, filled with transformational wonderment. Currently, with this month’s ghostly holiday impending, Gibson’s is geared up to handle the hordes that the appropriate accessories come each October, intent on stepping into another guise. required for a complete However, Sandra Torres, the store’s manager of 30 years, isn’t worried. look – hats, canes, masks “This is our busiest season,” she said. “However, we and wigs, to name a few. provide costumes to schools, theatrical companies, conven- The costume shop, as Tortioneers and lots of others needing an alien, Viking, Santa or res attested, “has it all.” whatever throughout the year.” Every one of the preThat continual business really showcases customer satis- miere costumes were faction. The range of character costumes available is incredi- amazingly made on-site ble, such as pirates, Roman soldiers, hippies, Southern Belles, by Torres and her talented Jimmie Gibson, theFounder gangsters, and what or whoever is popular at the box office staff. They are only availand/or political scene at the time. Of course, every outfit has able for rent, and almost all size requirements can be accommodated. However, if a little tailoring is required, Torres and her crew are happy to help. Most importantly, even though each uniform has been worn previously, all are meticulously dry cleaned on-site before the next rental. If folks want a costume for multiple uses and would prefer to purchase, that’s not a problem at Gibson’s either. The entire downstairs is overflowing with buyable outfits. If desired, thanks to the store’s large selection of hair pieces, makeup, gadgets, masks and other transformative stuff, customers can literally create their own look. If you’re hankering to be a superhero – Wonder Woman is very “in” this Halloween – or almost anything else you can think of, Gibson Costume Shop is definitely the place to go. You’ll find it a very “transformative” experience. www.78209magazine.com | 15
Profile
78209 MAGAZINE
THE PEOPLE THAT MAKE ‘09 SPECIAL
GINA AND RON EISENBERG “Adopting” a New Lifestyle
BY ERNIE ALTGELT PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARTIN WADDY
When we say that our neighborhood’s much-loved Gina and Ron Eisenberg have recently adopted a wonderful new lifestyle, we’re not kidding. For this tireless twosome, both at an age when many would be ready for a little additional hardearned post-professional “me-time,” assuming parental roles generally more suited for millennials was a heartfelt nobrainer. Adding not one, but three delightful youngsters to their formerly adult-only Alamo Heights household has proven to be not only a bit challenging, but extremely rewarding as well – not only for the excited “new” mom and dad, but for their cherished, incorporated children too. Read on, because it’s really all about family ties, and you’ll discover that in this inspirational case, that’s a very good thing. Gina and Ron wed in 2009. Both have enjoyed successful careers in the media, she primarily as an on-air personality reporting for several area and regional television stations, and
16 | October 2018
he as a radio talk show host, public relations and marketing pro, writer, and college professor. The two met through their professional lives, and, as Gina put it, over time they just “clicked.” With their similar backgrounds as well as their shared interests, the relationship deepened and romance ensued. After tying the knot, the newlyweds decided to move into Gina’s neighborhood, and, as a couple, they’ve happily been in ‘09 ever since with, as Ron emphasized, “Definitely no plans for ever relocating – can you say, ‘the Heights school system?’” Ron was already a father from his previous marriage. The couple’s new additions initially resulted when San Antonio’s Child Protective Services removed a 10-month-old girl named Reagan, citing parental abuse and neglect. One of Ron’s sons had fathered the child with his then-girlfriend. Because of this familial connection, the senior Eisenbergs were subsequently
asked if they would accept responsibility for the toddler. Stepping up to the plate, Ron and Gina readily agreed to take Reagan in (permanently, in their minds) in 2012. A few months later, the same woman was expecting another child, which turned out to be twin boys, with Ron’s son. CPS, for the same reasons as before, immediately removed the infants and asked Ron and Gina if they would consider taking Reagan’s two brothers as well. Without any hesitation, Gina and Ron stepped up, and when the newborns, named Kennedy and Carter, were only three days old, they brought them home to meet their sister. Through a joint effort that was, at times, very trying, Gina and Ron made their parenthood “official” by adopting all of the siblings. “We had quickly realized that we wanted to keep Reagan,” the two attested. “When the boys came into the picture, we knew that the greatest gift we could give them would be the opportunity for all three to grow up together as brothers and sister. Becoming their ‘forever family’ was the only thing to do.” By early 2014, the matter was judiciously settled, and in the eyes of the law, Reagan, Carter and Kennedy became legally, emotionally and spiritually theirs, although it had been official to everyone else for a long time. Since then, life for the joyfully expanded Eisenberg brood has been anything but sedate. Both Gina and Ron were working full time when the children were adopted. Gina admitted to having “no previous parenting experience,” and said she’d never even changed a diaper, and Ron said his previous life as a “father to tots” now seemed almost like ancient history. However, fueled by the fondness of their three adored little ones, Gina said it was worth the effort. “Getting into the mom and dad routine actually came quickly for us, learning curve and all,” she said. “Initially however, we did wonder if we were up to the challenge.” Despite the curve balls, over the past six years, a determined and dedicated Ron and Gina have proven to be pretty darned adept in their roles – just one look at the beautiful, safe and happy Reagan, Kennedy and Carter with their bright smiles
Ron and Gina with Reagan, Carter and Kennedy
and healthy glows tells it all. Today, the Eisenberg clan is an admirable study in nonstop activity with school, sports and a myriad of other “child-rearing responsibilities” which continually fight for attention with Ron and Gina’s on-going professional commitments. “While before, my priorities used to be all work related,” Ron said. “Now, those priorities are family, home and then work, in that order.” Gina mirrors his outlook. With an active seven-year-old daughter and two equally energetic five-year-old boys to nurture 24/7, after so many years with only each other (and their cats) to dote on, many might have guessed that such a personal “reorganization” wouldn’t stand a chance of success. However, by giving so much of their time, energies, affection and themselves, Gina and Ron now are reminded daily that they are the real winners and have gotten so much more in return. As for the children, they seem to have fared well in this deal. They’ll tell anyone in joyful unison that they’ve got the “bestest” mom and pop in all of 78209, and really, who can argue with that? By “adopting” this new lifestyle, the very blessed and appreciative Eisenbergs really did acquire something wonderful, special and inspiring to boot. Bravo Gina and Ron, and keep giving big hugs to each of your very fortunate and thoroughly loved little ones. Of course, maybe wait until they’ve picked up their toys first! www.78209magazine.com | 17
Home
ARCHITECTURE AND INTERIOR DESIGN
DOWNSIZING AND STILL LIVING LARGE
One Man Discovers Many Advantages After Moving From Fair Oaks to Franklin Park in Alamo Heights BY ROBYN BARNES PHOTOGRAPHY BY AL RENDON
18 | October 2018
How do you know when it’s time to downsize your home? Jerry Horvath recognized the time had come when he looked around his home in Fair Oaks and realized he no longer knew his neighbors. “When my wife and I moved to Fair Oaks years ago, it was a small community and we knew everyone around us,” he said. “My daughter and her family lived next door. There was always something going on out there, and we were active.” The years flew by and Horvath’s wife passed away. Suddenly, the 3000-square-foot house was big and empty. Fair
Oaks was no longer the small, rural community it once was, and traffic on Interstate 10 was a burden. One of Horvath’s daughters who lived in Alamo Heights urged him to move closer to her. About the same time, Franklin Park Alamo Heights was preparing to open its senior living community on Sunset Road. The pair toured the facility, and Horvath liked what he saw. “This place wasn’t even finished when I toured it,” he said. “Just walking into the lobby, I could tell this was quality construction.” “Here was an opportunity to move into a community where I could meet new associates and make new friends,” he continued. www.78209magazine.com | 19
Home
20 | October 2018
“There’s a wealth of activity and intelligence here; it’s like living in a frat house! I knew I’d be happy at Franklin Park.” Horvath chose a 1,684-square-foot, three-bedroom apartment, because he wanted a guest suite and needed a third bedroom for an office. He still works as a CPA, because he enjoys the work. “Frankly, many of my clients have become friends over the years, and we’d miss each other if I gave up work,” Horvath said. His apartment has a full-size kitchen and appliances; the spacious center island features a granite countertop. Undercabinet lighting illuminates the prep space, and the storage space is surprising. Horvath customized his new home by adding molding around the windows, draperies and plantation shutters. “I picked out what I wanted to bring with me from my Fair Oaks home,” he said. “I chose pieces based on what fit best. Once I knew what I’d bring, I arranged the move so it happened in one day. My family helped me get set up when the movers arrived. By 8:00 p.m., this apartment was arranged just as it is now. I even had cable hooked up!”
ALL THE COMFORTS The front door opens into a small foyer that offers a view of the living, dining and kitchen area. Two bar stools offer Horvath a place to perch for a quick snack during work. The dining table beside the island isn’t the one Horvath brought with him from Fair Oaks. “That one was round and I didn’t feel like it fit the space well,” he said. “My daughter found this one, and I like it better because it fits the rest of the décor.”
www.78209magazine.com | 21
Home
And the chandelier over the table? Jerry brought it with him and the staff hung it in a jiffy. “They were really outstanding during my move in,” he said. Beside the dining table is a curio cabinet filled with silver. “My wife collected it,” he said. “I gave a lot of it to my stepdaughter when I moved in, and I knew she’d enjoy it.” The living area beyond the kitchen is furnished with a long camelback sofa, a round coffee table and two armchairs. A large cabinet is positioned along the wall; nestled in a matching frame is a large-screen television. “The interesting thing is that the frame wasn’t part of the cabinet when we purchased it,” Horvath said. “My wife and I found a cabinet maker in Kerrville who made the frame to match. We were amazed at the similarity in wood grain and finish when we saw the end product.” Across from the kitchen is a small balcony patio with an eastern view. Horvath often sits here with coffee to watch the sunrise. MASTERFUL BEDROOM The master suite beyond the kitchen rivals any detached home in spaciousness. To the left is a sitting room furnished
22 | October 2018
with two wing chairs and a zebra rug. Horvath uses this area to relax with a good book. The bedroom offers a queen size bed facing an enormous wall unit that serves as a dresser, bookshelf and centerpiece for the mounted flat screen television. Lladro figurines decorate one shelf. The master bath has double vanities and a separate tub and shower. The large shower is wheelchair accessible, in case Horvath ever needs it. The walk-in closet at the far end of the room affords Horvath more than enough room for his wardrobe. The office and guest suite are located to the left of the entry foyer. Horvath cleverly transformed the double-wide closet into office storage space by adding shelving. It’s easy for him to reach in for envelopes, files or paper this way. In the Fair Oaks home office, Horvath had a large heavy desk and credenza. When he moved, he scaled back because he has a theory about large desks. “Large desks allow you to make stacks of stuff and you run out of room to work!” he said. “Here, I have a small table that controls that. It fits my laptop. I have another sofa-long, narrow table that holds my printers. That’s all I need.” There’s only one file cabinet in the room. So where are all
his files? “I don’t need files because I scan everything,” he said. “I use technology to save space.” When he’s ready to take a break, he relaxes on the leather Chesterfield sofa and watches the television positioned across from his desk. Beside the sofa is a curio cabinet that once belonged to a dear friend. A collection of Wedgewood biscuit barrels are displayed in the cabinet. He might also relax by playing his saxophone. “I played the sax in high school and college,” he said, “and like many people, I put the instrument away when I graduated and went to work. After 55 years, I picked it back up again – and I sounded awful! But, I’ve stayed with it and improved. I’ve had the horn since I was 12 years old and I treasure it.” The guest suite is comprised of a Jack-and-Jill bathroom and bedroom. The queen-size bed offers a comfortable place to watch the television perched on the dresser across the room. The walls serve as a gallery of photos Horvath took of his grandchildren over the years. “I think it may be time to update these,” he mused.
REFLECTIONS “This is a wonderful place to live,” Horvath said. “There’s so much to do, and there’s a great deal of participation in the activities. If you want to stay busy, you certainly can. The location is convenient and the service is always good.” “However, the best thing that’s happened is that I’ve found the second love of my life here!” he beamed. “She’s really a gift and makes living here a joy every day.” www.78209magazine.com | 23
Neighborhood News NEWS FOR THE 78209 AREA INCLUDING THE COMMUNITIES OF ALAMO HEIGHTS, TERRELL HILLS, LINCOLN HEIGHTS, TERRELL HEIGHTS, NORTHWOOD ESTATES AND OAK PARK BY EDMOND ORTIZ
Alamo Heights, San Antonio Approve Budgets
The cities of Alamo Heights and San Antonio have finalized their budgets for fiscal year 2019, which began Oct. 1. Alamo Heights’ new budget includes $1 million in the city’s 20-year road maintenance system. The city is spending more than $600,000 to upgrade the sewer system on Harrigan Court, and nearly $300,000 to acquire new equipment for police, firefighters and paramedics. Alamo Heights also plans to create a school resource officer for use in the Alamo Heights Independent School District (AHISD). Alamo Heights has also budgeted money to clean up the city’s part of Olmos Basin, make corridor improvements on 26 | October 2018
Public safety continues to be a top priority, with 58 percent of general fund money being allocated to the police and fire/EMS departments.
Alamo Heights’ new budget includes funds for road maintenance
Alamo Heights’ new budget includes funds to help clean up Olmos Basin.
its section of Broadway Street, and carry out repairs and renovations around the city pool and the building leading to the Jack Judson nature trails. The latter two elements are on Viesca Street. Additionally, Alamo Heights plans during the next fiscal year to increase tree trimming in public rights-of-way, buy ballistic vests and helmets for active shooter threats, develop a community recycling event, and form and expand a local wellness program for city employees. City employees will get a two percent cost-of-living adjustment, and, while their appraisals are generally rising, city property owners will not see a hike in their property tax rate. The city saw a 5.2 percent increase in net taxable values for 2018. In the Alamo Heights budget, City Manager Mark Browne wrote that public safety continues to be a top priority, with 58 percent of general fund money being allocated to the police and fire/EMS departments. San Antonio’s new budget features $110 million in street maintenance, $19 million for sidewalk fixes, an additional $17 million to help support development of more affordable housing, and funds to expand park police and animal care officer staff. The city also plans to continue its program of spending money to repair and upgrade older roads in certain city council districts, including Districts 1, 2 and 10. San Antonio is not raising its property tax rate. Alamo Heights Independent School District’s budget for the 2018-2019 school year includes $5 million more in expenses from the previous academic year. However, because it expects a drop in state funds, thanks mainly to the “Robin Hood” recapture program, AHISD is freezing the pay for all employees. District officials have expressed disappointment for being unable to increase employee salaries. They have asked state lawmakers to take a harder look at the state’s education financing system in next year’s legislative session. Terrell Hills is continuing to work on its 2019 budget, which will be adopted in December and take effect Jan. 1.
Couture Alterations was recently established in 78209, with the intent to provide customers with quality and design solutions that are tailored to each of their unique needs. The store offers alterations on men’s suits, women’s dresses and custom design on all types of clothing. They pay careful attention to detail, in order to ensure the successful completion of their work. They also have a wedding specialist inhouse, and offer tailoring services. They are a wonderful addition to Alamo Heights and value the community in which they work.
Alterations and Custom Clothing Design
Jolene Warren, Jessie Atkins, Sarah Meyer, Carol Meyer, Ashtyn Stubbe
Scout & Molly’s Grand Opening
Scout & Molly’s Boutique at 280 E Basse Rd in the Quarry Village held a Grand Opening on Saturday, Sept. 15. Despite the rain, it was a great turnout and fun afternoon! Owners Don and Carol Meyer and their daughter, Sarah, are excited to welcome area shoppers to check out the handpicked selection of styles buyer Sarah has personally curated, and to meet their experienced team of stylists ready to help every woman look and feel her very best. The stylists help customers choose from a variety of styles and silhouettes from the latest and best designer brands. These include names such as AG Jeans, Spiritual Gangster, Bernardo, Tees by Tina, Good Hyouman, David Lerner, Olive + Oak, and BLANKNYC. www.78209magazine.com | 27
Neighborhood News
Lyft opens driver support center
Lyft opened a driver support center on Sept. 6 at 8610 Broadway. The center will serve as the San Antonio administrative headquarters, as well as a community space for training, dispensing supplies, and assisting with all other driver requests. In addition to the support center, Lyft also introduced its Express Drive program to San Antonio. Lyft is partnering with Hertz to allow Lyft drivers to rent cars from the newlybranded rental car facility at 8770 Crownhill, for ride-sharing work at minimal cost to the employee. The program is also expected to appeal to local activeduty military members for the convenience of renting and returning cars for Lyft work between tours of duty, company officials said.
Food Truck Park Open on Austin Highway
StreetFareSA officially opened in mid-September at 1916 Austin Highway. Robbie Dunn and Dakota Day, who are behind StreetFareSA, have said the park is family - and petfriendly, with plenty of games. The mobile food park can accommodate a variety of providers. There are flat-screen television sets, an open-air pavilion, and an Airstream bar where visitors can grab beer, wine, juice or soda. StreetFareSA also plans to host events, such as a Halloween pet costume contest on Oct. 27. Right now, plans call for the park to be open 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily.
28 | October 2018
Area Voters Prepare for November Elections
Registered voters in the 78209 area will consider a handful of Congressional, state and county races during the Nov. 6 elections, while residents in San Antonio will face city charter amendments proposed by the local firefighter’s union. The local ballot will contain three candidates for Congressional District 21, in the race to succeed retiring Republican U.S. Rep. Lamar Smith. The candidates are Democrat Joseph Kopser, an Austin businessman and Army veteran; Republican Chip Roy, a Dripping Springs resident who served as chief of staff for U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas); and Libertarian Lee Santos, a retired business owner. Libertarian Jeffrey Blunt is challenging Democratic incumbent Joaquin Castro for Congressional District 20. An Army veteran and environmental engineer, Blunt has run for several Congressional and legislative posts. Castro, a former state house representative, is seeking his fourth term in Congress. He has worked in public education, health care, and the juvenile justice system. Three people are running for Congressional District 35. Democratic U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett, an Austinite, is a former state senator and Supreme Court justice who has served in Congress for more than 20 years. David Smalling is an electrician/former small business owner from Maxwell, Texas. Libertarian Clark Patterson is a photographer from Austin. The race for Texas House District 120 includes Democratic incumbent Barbara Gervin-Hawkins and Republican Ronald Payne. Gervin-Hawkins founded the George Gervin Youth Center with her brother, the legendary San Antonio Spur. She’s seeking her second term in office. Following a career in the Army, Payne has worked in health care and in law enforcement/corrections. The race for Texas House District 121 is a contest to succeed retiring House Speaker Joe Straus, a Republican. The candidates are Republican Steve Allison, a former AHISD trustee; Democrat Celina Montoya, a former reporter who handles government and community relations for Alamo Fireworks; and Libertarian Mallory Olfers, a sales associate with Grainger. Democratic State Rep. Diego Bernal is running unopposed for Texas House District 123.
www.78209magazine.com | 29
Shop 78209
THE INSIDER’S GUIDE TO OUR FAVORITE FINDS
l l a F Decor As autumn leaves drift by the window and temperatures begin to drop, ‘09ers love to decorate their homes. Here are the beautiful finds we found in the area.
Magnolia Leaves Wreath SUNSET RIDGE HARDWARE 6438 N. New Braunfels
Tom Turkey HANLEY WOOD 5611 Broadway
Fall Coffee Mug HANLEY WOOD 5611 Broadway
Ceramic Bowl of Squash ALAMO PLANTS & PETALS 119 W Sunset Rd
Nest Candle BAKER TATUM 5932 Broadway
30 | October 2018
Buck Plate ROOMS AND GARDENS 5932 Broadway
Golden Apple BAKER TATUM 5932 Broadway
Ceramic Leaves Platter SUNSET RIDGE & HARDWARE 6438 N. New Braunfels Ave
Pumpkin Rug SUNSET RIDGE & HARDWARE 6438 N. New Braunfels Ave Bowl of Acorns 5 BROADS OFF BROADWAY 518 Austin Hwy
www.78209magazine.com | 31
78209 MAGAZINE
Schools THE PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SCHOOLS OF ‘09
78209 FROM ACADEMICS TO ATHLETICS, SCHOOL SPIRIT TO AWARDS OF MERIT, WE HAVE IT COVERED
32 | October 2018
A St. Luke’s student using the new digital card catalog.
On Sept. 15, St. Luke’s Episcopal School announced the completion of an extensive library renovation project. The renovation included structural enhancements, redesigned interiors, an improved book collection and expanded digital resources. In addition, a sizable collection of used library books was donated to Chrysalis Ministries and the San Antonio Public Library to benefit young readers around the city. Students at St. Luke’s Episcopal School are enjoying reimagined learning spaces and an upgraded resource catalog thanks to the recent revitalization of the Newman Library, which serves students from preschool through eighth grade. The renovation project, which was completed just in time for the new school year, aimed to preserve this treasured space while updating its wealth of resources to meet the needs of today’s learners. The renovation of the Newman Library also presented St. Luke’s with the opportunity to give back to the San Antonio community. A multitude of out-of-date titles and duplicate copies were cleared from library stacks and redistributed to organizations serving disadvantaged children without regular access to books. Hundreds of used books were donated to Chrysalis Ministries as part of their annual “Stuff the Backpack” event. “Service learning is an integral component of a St. Luke’s education, and it begins with modeling service to our students,” said Angelica Rossi, elementary level division head. “Our students cherish their memories of reading captivating and wondrous books in the Newman Library. To be able to share those stories with other children is a gift that has no price for them.”
St. Luke’s New Library
The Alamo Heights School Foundation’s Greater Heights Night takes place Wednesday, Nov. 14 at 6:00 p.m. at the Mays Family Center at the Witte Museum. Greater Heights Night started in 2011 and has rapidly evolved into a premiere community gathering that allows the Alamo Heights School Foundation to signifigantly contribute to the district year after year. Last year’s event raised more than $462,000 to enhance educational resources for teachers and students.
Greater Heights Night At the Witte
www.78209magazine.com | 33
Schools
Alamo Heights Independent School District Educator Named 2019 Texas Teacher of the Year
Alamo Heights ISD Educator Named 2019 Texas Teacher of the Year The Texas Association of School Administrators (TASA), which facilitates the Texas Teacher of the Year program, has named Texas’ top teachers for 2019. Rhonda Peña, a fifth-grade mathematics teacher from Mission CISD, is the 2019 Texas Elementary Teacher of the Year, and Jeff Wheatcraft, an eighth-grade science teacher from Alamo Heights ISD, is the 2019 Texas Secondary Teacher of the Year. Wheatcraft was chosen to represent the state as Texas Teacher of the Year in the National Teacher of the Year competition. “I congratulate Rhonda and Jeff on this achievement. Texas Teacher of the Year is the highest honor our state bestows upon its teachers,” said Kevin Brown, executive director of TASA. “They have distinguished themselves among thousands of outstanding, dedicated teachers across our state and nation have who have answered the call to serve others.” For the past four years, Wheatcraft has been in charge of creating and taking care of his school’s STEM program. He said he has worked collaboratively with other teachers and the administration to craft a program that has enhanced the learning opportunities of the students while changing the school’s culture, especially regarding young women in STEM fields. The majority of lessons are real-world problems with no definitive 34 | October 2018
Students held a pep rally for eighth-grade science teacher, Jeff Wheatcraft, Alamo Heights 2019 Texas Teacher of the Year.
Top: Alamo Heights students played at the pep rally for Mr. Wheatcraft. Above: The Alamo Heights Junior School Auditrium filled to capacity.
solution. Wheatcraft said he wanted students to know that there are still problems people are facing that need to be solved, and they have the skills to find solutions. Peña, who teaches fifth-grade mathematics, has taught at Bryan Elementary for the past 25 years of her 28-year career in education. “Our students are our future,” said Peña. “They deserve to have every ounce of our efforts to help guide them toward
Teacher of the Year recipients Jeff Wheatcraft and Rhonda Peña
a productive life. By building a relationship with each of our students, we are also building the respect that they will have for us, for each other, and for themselves, and we are setting the path towards a successful life.”
Saint Mary’s Hall National Merit Scholar Semifinalists
Saint Mary's Hall has had twelve students selected as National Merit Scholar Semifinalists (more than any other school in San Antonio). Learn more about their exceptional and rigorous academic programs by visiting their website at www.smhall.org/academics. www.78209magazine.com | 35
Schools
AHHS Yearbook Cover to be Featured in National Campaign
Congratulations to the Alamo Heights High School Yearbook Staff. The cover of the 2018 Yearbook will be featured in a national campaign for Balfour Publishing. This is the first time in school history the staff has received this honor.
Recovery Advocacy & Addiction Awareness
Join Alamo Heights Independent School District Heart of Heights and Rise Recovery as they present Tony Hoffman. Mr. Hoffman was a top-ranked BMX amateur with multiple endorsements until becoming addicted to alcohol, marijuana and prescription painkillers at a young age. He lost everything after being sent to prison for two years in 2007. Mr. Hoffman used his time in prison to rebuild his life’s purpose. Since his parole in December 2008, he has dedicated his life to traveling the country to build addiction awareness and advocate for a shift in the addiction and recovery process. Mr. Hoffman will share his story and focus on how people can all work together to improve addiction rates in their community and across the country. This event will take place Wednesday, Oct. 24 at 7:00 pm at the Alamo Heights United Methodist Church at 825 E. Basse Rd. For more information, contact Catherine Widder, LCSW at cwidder@ahisd.net or 210-832-5956. Thank you to the Alamo Heights School Foundation for its continued funding and support of the Wellness Program and Breaking the Silence series. The purpose of these programs is to be informative, help to improve family communication and strengthen community bonds. 36 | October 2018
Alamo Heights Independent School District to Host School Safety Presentations
AHISD is committed to the highest standards for its students and staff. To that end, they are looking forward to providing their community with updated information and an opportunity for communication during upcoming School Safety Presentations set for October. Plan to attend one of two School Safety Presentations for the community from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the Woodridge Auditorium either Monday, October 1, or Wednesday, October 3, to learn about all the steps AHISD has taken for school safety and security and to share your thoughts with them. A Spanish language presentation will be Monday, October 8, from 5:30 to 7:30 pm in the Woodridge Auditorium.
Alamo Heights Tennis Center's Fall 2018 Tennis Clinics
The Alamo Heights Tennis Center at 705 Trafalgar (off Jones-Maltsberger, just four blocks north of loop 410) will offer tennis lessons for beginner and intermediate junior tennis players aged six to 14. Classes are Monday and Tuesday afternoons through October 15; then Monday and Thursday from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. Classes being Tuesday, Sept. 4, and end Thursday, Dec.13. The classes will not meet on Monday, Oct. 8 (Columbus Day), nor during the week of Thanksgiving vacation. The price per class is $20 for the entire month or a dropin rate of $25 per class. Please pay by check and make checks payable to Alamo Heights Independent School District. Make-ups will only be offered if classes are canceled due to inclement weather.
The instructors will be: Larry Oxford, Director - Coach of four Alamo Heights High School UIL State Team Champions and 10 AHHS UIL State Individual Champions.
Alan Koth, Staff Professional - Winner of six USTA National Doubles Titles; formerly Head Professional at San Antonio's Windcrest Tennis Club and Ft. Worth's River Crest Country Club and head tennis coach at Pennsylvania's Franklin & Marshall College.
Ed Criado, Staff Professional - Coach of 10 USTA Junior Team Tennis State Team Champions; Head professional at Northside Tennis Center 1996-2004.
Classes will be limited to the first 20 students who enroll and pay in person each month. There will be one instructor for every four/five students. Please call us at 210.366.3155 if you have any questions.
www.78209magazine.com | 37
Schools
2018
78209
HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL SCHEDULE ALAMO HEIGHTS - MULES
OCT 12
ALAMO HEIGHTS VS. MEMORIAL 7:300 PM Edgewood Memorial Stadium
MACARTHUR - BRAHMAS
OCT 13 MACARTHUR VS. JOHNSON 7:00 PM Comalander Stadium
OCT 19 ALAMO HEIGHTS VS. LOCKHART 7:30 PM Lockhart High School
OCT 19 MACARTHUR VS. CHURCHILL 7:30 PM Heroes Stadium
NOV 2 ALAMO HEIGHTS VS. MEDINA VALLEY 7:30 PM Medina Valley High School
NOV 2 MACARTHUR VS. REAGAN 7:30 PM Comalander Stadium
OCT 26 ALAMO HEIGHTS VS. KERRVILLE TIVY 7:30 Harry B. Orem Stadium
NOV 8 ALAMO HEIGHTS VS. BOERNE CHAMPION 7:30 PM Harry B. Orem Stadium
38 | October 2018
OCT 26 MACARTHUR VS. MADISON 7:30 Heroes Stadium
NOV 8 MACARTHUR VS. LEE 7:00 PM Comalander Stadium
Alamo Heights Independent School District Calendar of Events October 18 AHISD BOARD MEETING: AHISD Board Room, 7101 Broadway, 6 p.m.
October 23-24 ELEMENTARY PARENT CONFERENCES: Howard, Cambridge & Woodridge October 25 DISTRICT PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT: Early Release - All Campuses
October 31 FAMILY NIGHT/NO HOMEWORK NIGHT
November 1 20TH ANNIVERSARY SPANISH IMMERSION PROGRAM: AHHS Auditorium Foyer, 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
November 14 ALAMO HEIGHTS SCHOOL FOUNDATION GREATER HEIGHTS NIGHT: Witte Museum, Mays Family Center, 6 - 10 p.m.
November 15 AHISD BOARD MEETING: AHISD Board Room, 7101 Broadway, 6 p.m.
November 19-23 THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY/BREAK: No school for students. Schools and offices closed.
www.78209magazine.com | 39
Ask Roxie
78209 MAGAZINE
ADVICE FOR PET OWNERS FROM AN ‘09 PET
HALLOWEEN FUN FOR FIDO
By BERIT MASON
We don't speak your language, but boy, do we talk with our eyes. Just one look at a dog in a Halloween costume tells you what he thinks about that! “Get me out of this thing!” he would say if he could talk. Alamo Heights jeweler Oscar Villarreal loves his pups, and every year, he dresses them in Halloween costumes. “They hate it!” Villarreal said with a laugh. However, his '09 customers love it. “We do it for the clients, because it's fun.” His scruffy dog is Boerne Boy, saved from wandering around a gas station, and his little black dog is Mecca, who was to be surrendered before Villarreal adopted it. “For Halloween, we've bought them a King costume, a Dia de los Muertos costume, a crab outfit, a hobo costume, and a piñata outfit,” he said. Last year, Boerne Boy was a shark. What people do to their dogs these days! Villarreal owns The Jewelry Store on Broadway, and said the pups are his shop dogs, the “greeters.” “When we put them in a costume, they freeze up and go catatonic,” said Villarreal. “Then, they are good sports about it.” He allows his customers' pets to enter the store with caution, and said more '09 stores are now “pet
40 | October 2018
The Jewelry Store owner Oscar Villarreal poses with his two rescue pups, Mecca on the left, and Boerne Boy on the right
friendly,” letting us dogs inside with our masters. We are now about eight years into this business of pet owners dressing Fido as a frankfurter, shark or lobster. The National Retail Federation started tracking sales of Halloween costumes for pets in 2010. They wouldn't have bothered, if those sales had no future. “Halloween costumes can run anywhere from $35 to $45,” said Tina Kuykendall, whose husband Mike owns Mike's Dog Store on Sunset Ridge. “It is harder to fit large dogs. They don't seem to make as many costumes for them. Many customers want novelty – we carry killer whale, taco and pumpkin costumes.” Halloween-themed leashes and collars are for sale, plus candy corn plush toys. There are tricks and treats as well! The boutique sells carobfrosted dog cookies, and peanut butter Rice Krispie treats decorated with a ghost, just for your hound. “Halloween kicks off holiday sales in the pet market,” Kuykendall said. Of course, chocolate is toxic to dogs. Dr. Chris LaBrie doctors pets over at Austin Highway's Kothmann Pet Hospital.
Halloween costumes at Mike’s Dog store at Sunset Ridge
“The two toxic components in chocolate are methyl-xanthines, which are theobromine (most toxic) and caffeine,” he said. Whereas dark chocolate is good for people, he said it’s terrible for dogs. “In general, the darker the chocolate, the more dangerous. White chocolate is the least toxic, and cocoa powder and Baker’s chocolate are the worst.” When a pup eats it, signs of chocolate toxicity appear anywhere from 30 minutes to 12 hours after ingestion. Symptoms are increased heart and breathing rates, fever, and vomiting. We are really in trouble if we start to have tremors, seizures or cardiac arrhythmia. “If you watched the dog eat the chocolate within the past 30 minutes and you know how much was eaten, induce vomiting with oral hydrogen peroxide administration (1 milliliter per pound of dog), or 1-2 tablespoons of salt in the back of the mouth,” he said. “It is best to do this outside, as it will make a mess.” LaBrie said if you are uncomfortable performing this, or are unsure how long ago he ate the candy, hotfoot it to the vet. “Some pets require hospitalization and decontamination,” said LaBrie. Villarreal’s shop dogs may bring Halloween frivolity, but he is very serious about homing stray pups. He assists many national rescue groups, sending local rescues to a good home, wherever that may be. In fact, he just sent one to Los Angeles. The dogs he fosters are house-trained, leash-trained and kennel-trained, so they're ready to go and socialized. So people, in summary, us pooches can have just as much fun during Halloween as you do (as long as our Halloween treats don’t involve chocolate.) Feel free to dress us up in those cute little costumes, but here’s a good rule of thumb: don't force us into anything, especially if our puppy dog eyes are telling you, “No.” Roxie
www.78209magazine.com | 41
In The Loop 78209 MAGAZINE
‘09 SOCIETY AND EVENTS
BY LESLIE FOLEY
The McNay Art Museum hosted Art Vinyl: Spin it Your Way, a new event organized by McNay Contemporary Collectors Forum (MCCF). These one-of-a-kind designs were created by hundreds of artists who designed their creations on vinyl with mediums such as paint, sculpture and collage, among others. All were available for purchase, but the artist was a secret until the purchase was complete. Each piece sold for $100. Guests purchased art from artists including: Lisa Shackelford, Karen Evans, Duran Arte, Lucy Peveto, Sabra Booth and Bianca Alvarez. Attendees perusing and purchasing included: Mayra Farret, Sherie Johnson, Katie Holland, Monica Estrada Saldana, Karlos Anzoategui, Danny Lerma and James Michael Warner. Guests sipped signature cocktails from the San Antonio Cocktail Conference, savory hors d’oeuvres by Peggy’s on the Green and Bohanan’s went quickly, and sweets by Chocollazo were enjoyed with Espresso Amore Mio’s specialty coffees. DJ René C spun tunes as guests boogied on the custom-designed dance floor – a unique piece of art itself, created by artist Raul Gonzalez.
Art Vinyl
42 | October 2018
www.78209magazine.com | 43
In the Loop
The Ranch Chic Fashion Show
The Ranch Chic Fashion show took place on Sept. 13 at the University of the Incarnate Word Rosenberg Skyroom. Guests enjoyed a show filled with great western attire that can be worn to the 40th Annual Cattle Baron’s Gala and were inspired by the stories of the models who were cancer survivors. Guests also participated in a silent auction, raffle, and dinner provided by Don Strange Catering. It was a fabulous event celebrating life while contributing to the fight against cancer. 44 | October 2018
In the Loop
Debbie McDonald, Cyndee Dubinski, President Becky Ownby Smith, Laura Urbis, and Fresh Horizons Caterer Caryn Hasslocher
Also kicking off the season was the Military-Civilian Club. Morgan’s Wonderland was the spot for the fall welcome coffee. Civilian president Becky Ownby Smith greeted guests and newcomers. Club members present included Jeanie Travis, Janet Putman, Mary Wieser and Jimmie Balling. The next meeting will be held at San Antonio Country Club with Corie Boldt, owner of Corie Properties, who will discuss her personal battle with breast cancer during National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Other Civilian Club officers include: first vice president Beth Plummer, third vice president Lisa Wolff, disbursing treasurer Julianne Bartlett, recording secretary Virginia Dibrell, corresponding secretary Charlotte Mitchell and parliamentarian Cory Bakke.
Military-Civilian Clubs Fall Welcome Coffee
Delta Delta Delta Alumnae Teri Wenglein, Lily Gretzinger, President Alta Compton and Judy Kruger
Stone Werks Lincoln Heights was the spot for the annual Delta Delta Delta Alumnae kickoff. The “sisters” that atttended included Cyndee Dubinski, Lily Gretzinger, Karen Parks, Teri Wenglein, Kelly Lemke, Judy Kruger, Mary Beth Mosbacker, Amy Hawk, Jeanette Prichard, Christy Hinchey, Emily McMurray, Libby Rokowski, Ann McAlister, Leslie Foley and president Alta Compton, who is returning as president for a second year. Another attendee was realtor Susan Bowman, who will donate a portion of her real estate sales to Delta Delta Delta.
San Antonio Tri Delta Alumnae
www.78209magazine.com | 45
In the Loop Felder Gallery Celebrates First Anniversary
Robby Felder, native San Antonian, designer and multi-media artist, toasts to the Alamo Heights Felder Gallery’s first anniversary, showcasing local, regional and national fine artists across a variety of mediums. Robby Felder Originally founded in 2004 in Rockport, Texas, by San Antonio natives Larry and Linda Felder, Felder Gallery remained there until their son, Robby Felder, took over ownership and direction of the gallery upon their retirement in 2009 and relocated it to Port Aransas, Texas. After nine years in Port Aransas, Felder Gallery’s new San Antonio location showcases revolving exhibits that include a mix of contemporary representational art, traditional painting, sculpture and pure abstracts. Felder Gallery takes great pride in representing a variety of professional artists, and all artworks adhere to a high level of quality. Felder Gallery is located at 5934 Broadway St Suite 1, and is open Monday through Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Save The Date! SOCIETY AND CHARITABLE EVENT CALENDAR October 13
Yappy Hour - Puppy Sip & Shop
MORRIS KAYE & SONS 555 E. BASSE ROAD 104 11:00AM - 2:00PM
A fabulous Sunday for your furry friends! Bring your pups, sip tasty beverages and shop the newest dog collection. Your fur buddy will be stylin’. October 15
The 48th Annual Witte Game Dinner
THE WITTE 6:00 - 10:30PM
This year’s theme, Rio Fandango, celebrates the San Antonio River. Don your best western attire for a night of fandango and fun, with an array of sizzling wild game cuisine, one-of-a-kind silent and live auctions, and a country music concert for kicking up your heels at the end of the evening! The Witte Museum’s Game Dinner is renowned throughout Texas, and this year, it will be bigger than ever at the new Witte campus along the San Antonio River. www.wittemuseum.org October 18
Taste of the Heights THE SAN ANTONIO ZOO
San Antonio Artist Gordon West Featured at Gallery Opening
The seventh in a series featuring the works and collections of local artists, E. Gordon West was given a one man show at the Estate Sale Gallery at Los Patios with a reception on Friday, September 21. The exhibition will continue through October 22. A long-standing member of the “Watercolor Gang”, West is an active member of The Texas Watercolor Society where he earned the prestigious O. George Pinca award. In 1985, he was Artist of the Year of the San Antonio Art League, and has exhibited with Arts for the Parks. West has been a contributor to the publication "Texas Hill Country," and has received over 60 awards in national exhibitions and has works in the permanent collections of the McNay Art Museum, Texas A&M University, and the University of Louisville where he was honored in an exhibition of his paintings as a Hite Scholar. 46 | October 2018
Alamo Heights Chamber of Commerce will once again present Taste of the Heights, a night of live entertainment, fine wines, cocktails, delicious food and a silent auction. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Aspberger’s 101. www.tasteoftheheights.com October 26
ReDo: Fall Fest! THE DOSEUM 7PM - 9:30PM
Don your favorite scarf and cozy up for a nostalgic evening of classic carnival games and fall-themed food, drinks and activities. Relive sweet, sepia-toned nights of autumns past as you stroll through hay bales, dance around a cakewalk, bob for apples and more! At ReDo: Fall Fest, you can leaf your worries behind and get ready to fall back into fun!
October 26
St. Luke’s Episcopal School Kaleidoscope Auction THE SAN ANTONIO COUNTRY CLUB 6:30PM
St. Luke's Episcopal School is set to host its annual “fun” raising event to benefit educational upgrades and enhancements for the students of the school. This special evening will include dinner, live and silent auctions, and live entertainment. www.sles-sa.org October 27
The 2018 Red & White Ball
SAN ANTONIO MARRIOTT RIVERCENTER 6:30PM
The Blood & Tissue Center Foundation cordially invites you to their annual signature event, The Red and White Ball. The theme for this year's ball is An Evening in Oz, There's No Place Like Home, with dinner, dancing, entertainment, and a raffle and silent auction to be held at the Marriott Rivercenter. www.redandwhiteballsa.org October 27
The 2nd Annual Catrina Ball THE CENTRAL LIBRARY 6:30 - 11:30PM
This year, the San Antonio Public Library Foundation will celebrate Día de Los Muertos and the Tricentennial of San Antonio. The Catrina Ball will feature gourmet Mexican street food, musical performances, libations, a community Altar to honor those souls that have passed, and a DiscGlowTeca Dance after-party around Chihuly’s Fiesta Tower sculpture. www.saplf.org Saturday, November 10
The 8th Annual Chair-ity Event
PEDROTTI’S NORTH WIND RANCH 7:00 - 11:00PM
The 8th Annual Chair-ity event will feature food, cocktails, silent and live auctions, and unique chairs designed by local artists, celebrities and supporters. www.rmhcsanantonio.org Thursday, November 8
The Zoobilation Ball 2018 THE SAN ANTONIO ZOO 6:00PM
The Zoobilation Ball is one of San Antonio’s most anticipated annual events. This fundraising gala includes dinner, dancing, a silent auction and signature cocktails. www.sazoo.org/zooball
www.78209magazine.com | 47
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
Community Calendar MEETINGS FOR 78209 COMMUNITIES
October 1 ALAMO HEIGHTS PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION 5:30pm – 8pm 6116 Broadway St. San Antonio, TX 78209 October 2 ALAMO HEIGHTS LIONS CLUB MEETING 7pm La Fonda of Alamo Heights 8633 Crownhill San Antonio, TX 78209 October 2 ALAMO HEIGHTS ROTARY MEETING 12pm The Petroleum Club on the 7th Floor 8620 N. New Braunfels San Antonio, TX 78217 October 3 ALAMO HEIGHTS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE LUNCHEON 11:30am Meet & Greet 12pm Guest Speaker Paesano’s Lincoln Heights 555 E. Basse Rd. San Antonio, TX 78209 October 3 ALAMO HEIGHTS BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT 5:30-8pm 6116 Broadway St. San Antonio, TX 78209 October 8 TERRELL HILLS CITY COUNCIL MEETING 5-6pm 5100 N. New Braunfels San Antonio, TX 78209 Meeting is open to the public. October 8 ALAMO HEIGHTS CITY COUNCIL MEETING 5:30-9pm 6116 Broadway St. San Antonio, TX 78209 Meeting is open to the public. October 9 ALAMO HEIGHTS ROTARY MEETING 12pm The Petroleum Club on the 7th Floor 8620 N. New Braunfels San Antonio, TX 78217 October 16 ALAMO HEIGHTS ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD 5:30-8pm 6116 Broadway St. San Antonio, TX 78209 Meeting is open to the public. October 16 ALAMO HEIGHTS ROTARY MEETING 12pm The Petroleum Club on the 7th Floor 8620 N. New Braunfels San Antonio, TX 78217
48 | October 2018
October 16 ALAMO HEIGHTS LIONS CLUB MEETING 7pm La Fonda of Alamo Heights 8633 Crownhill San Antonio, TX 78209 October 22 ALAMO HEIGHTS CITY COUNCIL MEETING 5:30-9pm 6116 Broadway St. San Antonio, TX 78209 Meeting is open to the public. October 23 ALAMO HEIGHTS ROTARY MEETING 12pm The Petroleum Club on the 7th Floor 8620 N. New Braunfels San Antonio, TX 78217 October 30 ALAMO HEIGHTS ROTARY MEETING 12pm The Petroleum Club on the 7th Floor 8620 N. New Braunfels San Antonio, TX 78217
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
Community Leader DEDICATED TO PUBLIC SERVICE
HOMER DELGADO
Lt. Homer Delgado shows some fingerprint equipment in the department’s lab.
Criminals in Terrell Hills Beware By RON AARON EISENBERG
The first thing that caught my eye when I met Homer Delgado was his height and his smile. He’s a big guy. At six-foot-four, Delgado filled the doorway in the Terrell Hills Police Department as he walked out to greet me. He is an imposing figure, especially for someone like me, who is shy of fivefoot-five. However, Delgado’s incredible smile, which lights up his face and crinkles his eyes, makes him look more like a gentle giant than a tough guy. Delgado is head of criminal investigations for Terrell Hills. He hunts
crooks, and he does so with a passion. Indeed, for Lt. Homer Delgado, what he is doing is what he always wanted to do – be a cop. Delgado was born and raised in San Antonio, and graduated from Jefferson High School in 1991, where he played football. From Jefferson, he went on to San Antonio College to study criminal justice, but he switched to San Antonio College’s Police Academy before finishing his degree. It was the right choice for him, furthering his desire to pursue a ca-
reer in law enforcement. His first job after graduation from the SAC Academy in 1995 was as a patrol officer for the Ingleside, Texas, police department. “We were very busy,” he said. He spent two years in Ingleside before moving on to the San Patricio County’s sheriff’s office. “They approached me about joining their department and I was happy to do so. I enjoyed the wide-open country there. My job in San Patricio was to transport prisoners all over the state when it was time for them to go to prison. I drove everywhere and loved it.” Mostly, it was Delgado in a van with one or two convicted felons. “One time I drove a van filled with 17 convicts, just me and them. I said, ‘If you try something, we’re all going to die because I’ll drive this van right off the road.’ They behaved,” he laughed. In 1999, San Antonio was calling to him. He accepted a position with the Terrell Hills Police Department in patrol. He said he returned to San Patricio County in 2007 because, “I missed that big area.” Plus, it was a time “of great personal growth.” He noted he was trained by the FBI as a hostage negotiator and served as head crisis negotiator for the San Patricio County SWAT Team. “We had a boat patrol in San Patricio,” he said. “We’d go out and do safety checks on boats while we also looked to interdict drug shipments. I was trained by the Coast Guard and by the Game Warden.” He was named a Marine Safety Officer with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Division, and he was part of the SWAT Team, too. He rose to sergeant investigator in San Patricio before he decided to move back to San Antonio, where his family lived. He joined the Medina County Attorney’s Office as their investigator, and worked there for three years. Then, in 2017, Terrell Hills Police Chief William Foley asked him to come back to Terrell Hills to work as the investigator for the city. Foley had also worked as a deputy sheriff in the San Patricio Sheriff’s Office, where he and
www.78209magazine.com | 49
Delgado knew each other. In his first few days on the job in Terrell Hills, Delgado recalled, “We were lucky enough to catch some ‘good’ burglars. We caught a guy who was responsible for a string of burglaries and thefts. Since then,” he noted, “we’ve had some catches with burglars. Frankly, a lot of this is luck – right place at the right time.” He said he has had success getting suspects to talk. “One strategy is to enter the interview room,” he said. “Sit there, and say nothing. The suspects generally will fill the void and start talking. If you give them the opportunity, they often confess.” On occasion, Delgado patrols Terrell Hills, filling in for officers who may be sick. He likes to keep his hand in the day-to-day of police work. As chief criminal investigator in Terrell Hills, he said, for example, “It feels very good to recover grandma’s diamond ring that has been in a family for generations. It is very rewarding. You feel great about the job you do when that happens.” Delgado is on call 24/7, and he even has his cell phone number
50 | October 2018
printed on his business cards. One major challenge for the department is package thefts – crooks stealing packages from residential doorsteps in the community. It’s a big problem in Terrell Hills and elsewhere. “Some of our patrol officers will follow delivery trucks through our neighborhoods. If they see a package that is visible from the street, the officers will go to those doors and hide the package, as a service to residents.” He said he’s talking with Amazon about a new program it offers to place lockers at convenience stores in an area. Folks then go to those lockers to retrieve their packages. When he’s not chasing crooks, Delgado enjoys spending time with his two sons. “We go fishing as often as we can,” he said. In fact, if he wasn’t a law enforcement officer, he says he’d be a fishing guide. He loves the outdoors, something he learned to appreciate while working in San Patricio County.
Delgado lives on seven acres near Devine, with enough land and pasture to keep a pet bull he named Owen. You might ask how Delgado ended up with a pet bull. His girlfriend Cindy Fowler’s sons bought what they were told was a steer. It turned out he was “intact.” So, Delgado adopted him. Owen is three years old and weighs close to a ton. He comes to Delgado when he calls him. “That’s if Owen thinks I have food for him,” he said with a laugh. Delgado is currently looking for a girlfriend for Owen. If you or someone you know has a heifer (a female cow), give Delgado a call.
www.78209magazine.com | 51
Where To Dine In ‘09
THE RESTAURANT GUIDE
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 $$
410 DINER
A ‘50s-themed diner serving homemade soups, fresh catfish, shrimp, prime steaks, pork chops and chicken. 8315 Broadway 822-6246 www.410diner.com $
BIRD BAKERY
A delightful bakery and small bistro that serves sandwiches, quiche, croissants, pies, cupcakes, cookies, brownies and dessert bars. 5912 Broadway 804-2473 www.birdbakery.com $
BROADWAY 50/50
Vintage-themed diner serving fun appetizers, like the Chuck Norris Kickers (chicken and jalapeños wrapped in bacon) and Totchos (Tater Tot Nachos), burgers, BLT’s, Cuban sandwiches and more. 5050 Broadway 826-0069 www.broadway5050.com $
BEST BET
BURGERFI
A classic burger, onion rings and a strawberry shake — perfect for after the game or anytime.
CAPPY’S
Lunch, dinner and brunch - Cappy’s is fine dining in the heart of ‘09, serving prime steaks, prime rib, rack of lamb and seafood. 5011 Broadway 828-9669 www.cappysrestaurant.com $$$ 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 $
MATINEE CAFÉ
Hand-crafted sandwiches, salads, soups, pastas, and desserts, baby bundt cakes, pies and cakes. 255 E. Basse, #100 441-4553 wwwcornerbakerycafe.com $
A friendly, family run restaurant featuring Lebanese and Italian specialties like souvlaki skewers of pork tenderloin served with warm pita bread, lasagna and spaghetti and meatballs. Plus, they offer plenty of American standards like Philly cheesesteak, meatloaf and chicken-fried steak. A delightful combination of ethnic and American comfort food. 555 Basse Road 210-600-3001 www.matineecafe.net.com $
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 $
Gourmet American fare paired with amazing wines. Fried chicken with Champagne...why not? 340 E. Basse Rd 444-9547 www.maxswinedive.com $
Good Time Charlie’s has been around since 1979 and soon became a San Antonio landmark restaurant popular with the local college students and faculty. They serve Texas home-style favorites including catfish, steaks and a chicken-fried steak many claim is the “Best In Texas.” They are also known as a favorite happy hour spot with lots of drink specials that include generous pitchers of ice-cold beer. 2922 Broadway 828-5392 www.gtcsatx.com $
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 $
CORNER BAKERY CAFE
EZ’s
GOOD TIME CHARLIE’S
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 $
MAGIC TIME MACHINE
San Antonio themed 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 $
52 | October 2018
MAMA'S CAFE
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, meat loaf and chicken-fried steak. 2442 Nacogdoches 826-8303 www.mamasrestaurants.com $
MAX’S WINE DIVE
NOSH
LUBY’S
Cafeteria-style restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. They offer several entrees daily that often include salmon, talapia, fried chicken, chicken-fried steak, grilled liver and onions, roast turkey breast, roast chicken and rib-eye steaks. The entrees are accompanied by hearty Southern side dishes like fried okra, mac and cheese, black -eyed peas and mashed potatoes. 8511 Tesoro Drive 930-3227 www.lubys.com $
SALATA
A new concept in soups, salads and wraps. You create your own by choosing from dozens of fresh ingredients including several types of lettuces, chopped onions, radishes, cucumbers, peppers, cabbage, black and red beans, bean sprouts, peas, broccoli and more. There are over 50 different toppings. Then choose from one of their 10 house dressings made with all-natural ingredients. Add fresh lean protein, including baked chicken, salmon or shrimp. 250 E. Basse Rd 462-1466 www.salata.com $
SILO ELEVATED CUISINE
Silo is listed as one of Open Table’s Top American Restaurants and rated as one of Zagat’s Top Local Picks. They offer New American fare in a casual, yet elegant atmosphere. They offer a small plate menu, and there is also a prix fixe dinner option available. Signature dishes include Chilean Sea Bass, Honey Soy Glazed Atlantic Salmon, Mussels and Linguine and Chicken-Fried Oysters. 1133 Austin Highway 824-8686 www.siloelevatedcuisine.com $$
STONE WERKS
KOI KAWA
Good food and a hip atmosphere. Over 40 beers on tap, a full bar and lots of big-screen TVs. The outside patio is a popular happy hour spot. Broadway at Basse 823-3508 www.stonewerks.com $-$$ Patio
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 $-$$
A variety of chicken wings with lots of exotic flavors like tamarind, Sriracha, garlic pepper , curry and Tom Yum. The wings are available for take-out or you can dine in - and they deliver. They also offer fried vegan tofu, edamame and sticky rice. A unique concept. 8210 Broadway 829-5000 www.tigerwings.com $
Thai food and sushi by chef Mmonrat “Mon” Shirley in a beautiful and tranquil atmosphere with tables that overlook a peaceful outdoor garden and fountain. 4901 Broadway 822-3253 www.monsthai.com $-$$
TIGER WINGS
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
WD DELI
Located in a quaint two story house on Broadway, WD Deli serves lunch only, specializing in scratch-made deli standards. They make several soups daily and have Jersey-style deli sandwhiches including pastrami, liverwurst, Italian panini, egg salad, tuna salad, roast beef and Reubens. They also have a large selection of entrée salads. Be sure to save some room for dessert as they have some really innovative ones, including lemon ooey gooey bars, butterscotch and black salt cookies and an orange dreamsicle cake. 3123 Broadway 828-2322 www.wddeli.com $ patio
ZEDRIC’S
Chef-prepared healthy pre-packaged meals to go. Meals are low-calorie and can be low-carb, Paleo or gluten-free. 5231 Broadway 824-6000 www.zedrics.com $
ASIAN
BOK CHOY
Vegan and vegetarian Pan-Asian food. Delicious appetizers include fried rice, spring rolls and cheese rangoons. Entrees include vibrantly flavored favorites like Hunan Beef, General Tso’s Chik-n, Beef and Broccoli, and steaming bowls of pho. 5130 Broadway 437-2200 www.eatbokchoy.com $ Patio
BREWS LEES TEA
An assortment of teas from taiwan including Matcha, Oolong, Coconut, Milk and Glowing varieties.They also offer rice and noodle bowls, mini pork buns and Taiyaki. 4009 Broadway 598-0068 www.brewsleetea.com $
FORMOSA GARDEN
Tranquil atmosphere, serving sushi, Chinese and Japanese cuisine. A Japanese hibachi-style grill experience is available Wednesday through Sunday during dinner, offering certified Black Angus beef. Reservations are preferred for the hibachi, but walk-ins are still welcomed. 1011 NE Loop 410 828-9988 www.formosasa.com $ $ Patio
HANZO
An Asian gastropub serving innovative cocktails and appetizers. 7701 Broadway, Suite 124 210-826-1488 www.hanzobar.com $$
MON THAI BISTRO
ORIENTAL BISTRO
New Oriental eatery in the same location as an old favorite. Offering traditional menu with some new specials. 8338 Broadway St. 210-973-7798 $$
OSAKA JAPANESE STEAK AND SUSHI
Japanese steak and sushi with hibachi tables where chefs cook and perform for audiences. 4902 Broadway 822-0300 www.osakasteaknsushi.com $-$$ Reservations suggested
PIRANHA KILLER SUSHI
Sushi, Japanese and Pacific Rim cuisine in a lively environment located in the Quarry Market. Up-tempo music with a large bar and lots of creative appetizers and sushi rolls. 260 E. Basse, #101 822-1088 www.piranhakillersushi.com $$
P. F. CHANG’S
Located in the Quarry Market, offering sushi, dim sum, wok classics, noodle dishes and cocktails. 255 E. Basse, #1200 507-1000 www.pfchangs.com $$
SUSHI ZUSHI
Traditional Japanese and Latin American influences fused into modern, healthy rolls, rice and noodle dishes. 999 E. Basse 826-8500 www.sushizushi.com $$
SNOW’S VIETNAM
Vietnamese cuisine 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 Asian 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 $ - $$
www.78209magazine.com | 53
THE SMOKE SHACK
Brisket, pulled pork, sausage, turkey, ribs and chicken, plus delicious sides like Smoke Shack Mac and spicy creamed corn. 3714 Broadway 829-8448 www.smokeshacksa.com $
EUROPEAN
COMMONWEALTH COFFEEHOUSE AND BAKERY
Coffee, latte, cappuccino, espresso plus artisanal French pastries, savory croissants, sandwiches, soups, salads, crepes and more. 118 Davis Court 560-2955 www.commonwealthcoffeehouse.com $ patio
FREDERICK’S
French fusion curine prepared by chef Frederick Costa. A wonderful culinary experience with dishes that feature flounder, roasted duck, escargot and more. 7701 Broadway 828-9050 www.frederickssa.com $$ - $$$
HOFBRAU & BEER GARDEN
A beer garden and popular happy hour destination with hearty food. Offerings include German schnitzel, a chicken-fried rib-eye and brisket nachos. 7310 Jones Maltsberger 290-8066 quarryhofbrau.com $
LA MADELEINE
A quaint French country cafe serving breakfast, lunch and dinner with rustic interior stone fireplaces and quiet nooks where you can relax. Sip on a delicious cup of tea, enjoy buttery croissants, house-made pastries,French onion soup, beef bourguignon or chicken cordon bleu pasta. 4820 Broadway 829-7291 www.lamadeleine.com $-$$
THE WINCHESTER PUB
An English-style pub with a Texas twist offering a large selection of craft cocktails, 18 beers on tap, wine and Champagne, and a full menu for breakfast, brunch, lunch & dinner featuring fish & chips, cheese curds, French toast, brisket grilled cheese sandwiches, Scotch eggs, and a hearty burger. The atmosphere is cozy with a large wooden bar, dart boards, and lots of large screen tvs’ showcasing your favorite sports teams. They also specialize in Soccer Saturdays showing games from European leagues. 5148 Broadway 210-721-7762 www.thewinchesterpub.com $-$$
GREEK
PAPOULI’S GRILL
Authentic Greek food with gyros, plus so much more. They have an extensive array of delicious tapas including hummus, dolmas (stuffed grape leaves), falafel patties, kalamata olives and fried calamari. They have large and satisfying salads including a traditional Greek, the Greco Roman, the Mediterranean and Caprese. Additionally, they offer fresh fish and shrimp dishes, grilled rosemary lemon chicken, vegetarian moussaka, pastichio (Greek lasagna) and their signature Papouli’s Feast that includes a choice of 4 meats, pita bread, Greek salad, puff pastries and more. 255 E. Basse, #384 804-1118 www.papoulis.com $
FRONTIER BURGER
A San Antonio staple famous for charcoal grilled hamburgers with a special blend of spices and seasonings and bakery-fresh buns. They are also known for their ever-popular thin, crispy onion rings, hand-dipped ice cream milkshakes and handmade fruit pies. In addition, they offer crispy and charcoal broiled chicken sandwiches, chicken wraps and a kid’s menu. 838 N.E. Loop 410 932-8040 $
LONGHORN CAFE
Casual, family-friendly burger joint with wood picnic tables, a playground for the kids, great appetizers, salads and sides. 1003 Rittiman at Harry Wurzbach 822-7272 www.thelonghorncafe.com $ Patio
ORDER UP
A healthy take on your standard burger, fries and shakes with gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options. 999 E. Basse 824-9600 www.orderup-sa.com $
ITALIAN
CERRONI’S PURPLE GARLIC
Homemade soups, fresh salads, hand-tossed pizzas and strombolis along with favorites like eggplant parmigiana and spaghetti with homemade meatballs. 1017 Austin Highway 822-2300 www.ceronispurplegarlic.com $$
PAESANOS
An upscale landmark Italian restaurant 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 $$
SORRENTO’S
Specializing in traditional Italian cuisine with antipasti, seafood and pasta dishes. 5146 Broadway 824-0055 www.sorrentopizzeria.com $$
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
BURGER FI
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 $
CHEESY JANE’S
Enjoy a wide variety of Tex-Mex food served in a friendly, comfortable seting. A favorite for locals. 927 Rittiman Road 210-824-0175 www.taqueriacazadoressa.com $
HAMBURGERS 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 $ 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
54 | October 2018
tap and a genuinely great hamburger. 1006 N.E. Loop 410 805-8600 $
CAZADORES MEXICAN RESTAURANT
CHELA’S TACOS
Very authentic regional Mexican tacos. Offerings include cilantro chicken, carnitas Michoacan style, carne guisada, picadillo and shrimp tacos and many more. 5231 Broadway 218-5466
www.chelas-tacos.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 $$ Sun Brunch
LA TAQUERIA
Tex-Mex favorites including soft and crispy tacos, fajitas, enchiladas, flautas, carne guisada and burritos. They also offer street tacos including brisket smoke pork and their bad-ass barbacoa. They have a happy hour, Monday thru Friday from 4 -7 pm. They are open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. 1208 Austin Highway 210-267-2516 www.lataqueriaaustinhwy.com $
PALOMA BLANCA
Dishes from the coastal regions of Mexico. Signature dishes include grilled snapper, ceviche, pozole, handmade flautas and tacos al pastor. 5800 Broadway 822-6151 www.palomablanca.net $$
SOLUNA COCINA MEXICANA
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 $$
TOMATILLO’S CANTINA
Brightly colored decor, lively music and great food. They feature an extensive list of flavored margaritas, tableside flaming queso flameado, enchiladas, fish and shrimp tacos, sizzling fajitas and more. 3210 Broadway 824-3005 www.tomatillos.com $$
TORCHY’S TACOS
Elevated Mexican street food with lots of innovative tacos filled with unexpected ingredients like salmon, Jamaican jerk chicken and ahi tuna. 999 E. Basse 824-1603 www.torchystacos.com $
PIZZA
BRAZA BRAVA
Pizzas made in Neapolitan style in a wood -fired brick oven. 7959 Broadway 320-2100 www.brazabravapizzeria.com $$
CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN
Fresh and light California-inspired salads, soups, flatbreads and pizzas. 255 E. Basse 424-2014 www.cpk.com $$
FLORIO’S PIZZA
Delicious authentic New York-style pizza. 7701 Broadway 805-8646 www.floriospizza.com $ - $$
GRIMALDI’S PIZZA
Casual, Brooklyn-based pizzeria chain serving brick-oven pizzas and calzones. 330 E. Basse, #101 832-8288 www.grimaldispizzeria.com $$
JULIAN’S PIZZERIA
A warm, family-friendly environment serving
pizza and Italian staples like spaghetti and meatballs, baked rigatoni and lasagna. 6462 N. New Braunfels www.julianspizzeria.com $$
VOLARE GOURMET PIZZA
An intimate, family-friendly restaurant serving New York-style thin-crust pizza and other Italian standards. 5054 Broadway 828-3354 www.volarepizza.com $ - $$
SOUTHWESTERN CANYON CAFE
Creative dishes influenced by the American Southwest. Bison meatloaf, grilled lemon salmon, baja shrimp pasta and fajitas 255 E. Basse, #600 821-3738 www.canyoncafe.com $$
STEAKS
THE BARN DOOR
Family-owned steakhouse with Western-style decor, serving perfectly grilled steaks, delicious seafood and desserts. Ribeyes, porterhouse and New York strip steaks, plus Chateaubriand, rack of lamb, Gulf Coast oysters and fresh salmon. They have a full bar and frequently offer fine live entertainment. 8400 N. New Braunfels 824-0116 www.thebarndoorrestaurant.com Live Entertainment $$ - $$$
FLEMING’S STEAKHOUSE
High-end steakhouse serving prime aged beef, pork chops, North Atlantic lobster tails, Alaskan king crab legs, Chilean sea bass and other seafood specialties. 255 E. Basse, #200 824-9463 www.flemingssteakhouse.com $$$
RUTH'S CHRIS
Upscale steakhouse that serves prime ribeye, New York strip and filet mignon steaks on sizzling plates. They also feature delicious lamb chops, shrimp, lobster, crabcakes and chicken entrees plus generous desserts. 7720 Jones Maltsberger 821-5051 www.ruthschris.com $$$
COFFEE & DESSERTS
OLD AD
COOKIE CAB
Fresh baked warm cookies delivered to your door. Choose from favorites like chocolate chip, peanut butter, oatmeal raisin, sugar, and snickerdoodle. 1832 Nacogdoches Road 210.848.9920 www.cookiecab.com $
LA PANADERíA
Artisan bakery that bakes several varieties of fresh bread and pastries daily. They have a large, airy dining area and serve gourmet coffee, soup and sandwiches. 8305 Broadway 375-6746 www.lapanaderia.com $
MENCHIE’S
Non-fat/low-fat yogurts with fun toppings you add yourself. 999 E. Basse, Suite 177 824-1104 www.menchies.com $
NOTHING BUNDT CAKES
Delicious bundt cakes in flavors like lemon, carrot and white chocolate raspberry adorned with thick cream cheese frosting and decorated for any occasion. 5164 Broadway 233-8430 www.nothingbundtcakes.com $$
ROSELLA AT THE GARDEN
A new coffee shop and eatery at the San Antonio Botanical Garden with outdoor and indoor dining, fresh roasted brews, and lunch fare. Garden members enjoy 10% off. Sunday Brunch 555 Funston Pl, 78209 sabot.org/plan-your-visit/rosella $$
www.78209magazine.com | 55
Wine & Dine 78209 MAGAZINE
AN INSIDER’S GUIDE TO DINING & DRINKING IN ‘09
SORRENTO’S ITALIANO RISTORANTE A Cozy Family Kitchen By HAYLEE UPTERGROVE
Imagine taking a stroll along the southern coast of Italy, the turquoise blue waters lapping against the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast. To the left are the colorful buildings built into the emerald green hillside, to the right a breathtaking view overlooking the Bay of Naples. Beautiful antique shops are scattered throughout the city, selling treasures from days gone by. Interspersed are ristorantes, serving up traditional Italian dishes such as pasta, seafood and pizza for the hungry passersby. Tucked away in a cozy nook of Alamo Heights sits Sorrento’s Italian Restaurant, named after this idyllic coastal town perched on the southern edge of Italy. Opened by Gino and Anna Ciccone in 2001, this family restaurant pays homage to the Ciccone’s Italian heritage and the family recipes inspired by it. The Ciccone’s daughter Margherita now owns the restaurant, taking the reins after Gino passed away 12 years ago. She and her mother have taken good care of Sorrento’s, creating an atmosphere that is welcoming to newcomers and regulars alike. The restaurant is bathed in warm golden tones, highlighted with rich wood, rust-colored brickwork and creamy stones. 56 | October 2018
Pictures and awards line the walls, as do too many bottles of wine to count. Easy Italian music plays through hidden speakers, providing a backing track to the chefs in the kitchen tossing pizza dough and creating rich meals from scratch. The whole place has the feeling of stepping into another country, but not in a way that feels foreign. In fact, Sorrento’s feels cozy and familiar, which is exactly how Margherita wants it. “Usually for first timers, we give a glass of wine away or something like that, just to let them feel at home,” she said. “This is a homey, family-based restaurant. A lot of families come here, people feel really comfortable when they come here, and we like to keep it that way.” It’s clear that the restaurant is a fan favorite, if the packeddining room around lunch time is any indication. Customers sit and laugh over their meals, heaping plates of pasta and beautifully-crafted pizzas that look like far too much for one person to eat. However, as the waitstaff cleared plate after plate from the tables, each was scraped clean, a testament to the wonderful food crafted by Margherita’s impressive staff. “Our ingredients are high quality ingredients,” she said. “I don’t skimp out on that. My father always used to say, ‘Certain things do not change.’ You can change a can of olives, but you can’t change the muzzarell you use on your pizza. And I’ve definitely continued that tradition here.”
The quality of ingredients shines through Sorrento’s excellent Italian dishes, such as in Gino’s Special Pizza. A stunning creation of thin-crust dough and tangy sauce, piled high with pepperoni, sausage, meatballs, bacon, anchovies, mushrooms, onions, green peppers and jalapenos, this pizza does not disappoint its namesake. It tastes like biting into an authentic New York pizzeria – all the flavors combine for an incredible experience. There’s so much piled on this pizza that each bite holds new, multidimensional tastes. If you’re a fan of the supreme, this pizza is the fine-dining equivalent. Two more delicious dishes were the Gamberi Alla Sorrento – jumbo shrimp served with angel hair pasta and spinach, topped with an original butter garlic sauce – and the Polo Alla Sorrento, a tender chicken breast scallopini sautéed with artichokes, asparagus, fresh tomatoes and white wine served over a bed of spaghetti pasta. The flavors in both dishes were fresh and light, perfect to nosh on before a night out or for a lunch break. Typically, Italian food feels a bit like a guilty pleasure – all the cheese, pasta and flavorful meats are sinfully delicious. However, these meals felt like healthy options for someone craving Italian but needing to throw some protein and vegetables in the mix. Of course, a house favorite on the menu is the Lasagna Della Casa, a simple combination of meat lasagna, three cheeses and the house pink sauce. It may be simple, but it is oh-so-delicious. Honestly, whoever came up with the idea of piling a bunch of layers of meat, pasta and cheese together and drenching them in sweet tomato sauce deserves to elevated to sainthood. Sorrento’s Lasagna Della Casa comes out piled high on the plate, draped in Gino’s delicious pink sauce. It is so
good. That sounds like too simplistic of a description for this lasagna, but it’s true. It is sweet homemade lasagna that anyone who enjoys traditional Italian will love. Sorrento’s has also delved into the catering business in the last few years. A year ago, they acquired a delivery van, and offer delivery for bulk orders over five trays within a 25-mile radius. For those who want to enjoy Sorrento’s quality meals from afar, this can be a wonderful option. As with all their services though, Margherita has one thing to ask from her patrons: patience. “Everything is made from scratch in the kitchen, so when we’re busy, we just ask that customers give us that little bit of extra time,” she said. “We want to satisfy them. We don’t want to give them a wishy-washy dish. We want to be able to give them exactly what that dish has called for.” The extra time the staff of Sorrento’s puts into creating dishes for their guests is very clear in the quality of the food they serve. Theirs is simple and delicious Italian food, and honor the memory of the land and the chef from which it came. Margherita said the time-honored recipes owe their success to Gino’s dedication to simplicity. “My father actually created a lot of the dishes on the menu,” she said. “He was very creative when it came to that. They’re family recipes from back in Italy – very simple. Our motto here, and it has been since we opened up, is simplicity.” Their motto – and their take on traditional Italian cuisine – seems to be working well for the family ristorante. If a trip to Italy has always been something you’ve dreamed of, Sorrento’s offers up a little taste of the Amalfi Coast while staying nice and close to home. www.78209magazine.com | 57
Church Directory PLACES OF WORSHIP
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
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
ALAMO HEIGHTS CHRISTIAN CHURCH 6435 N. New Braunfels Ave. San Antonio, TX 78209 210-828-5728 alamoheightscc.org Services: Sunday: 10:50am-12pm
MOUNT CALVARY LUTHERAN CHURCH 308 Mt. Calvary Drive San Antonio, TX 78209 210-824-8748 mtcsa.org Services: Sunday 8:30am and 11am
ALAMO HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 6201 Broadway St. San Antonio, TX 78209 210-824-0271 alamoheightspres.com Services: Sunday 8:30am and 11am
NORTHWOOD PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 518 Pike Rd, San Antonio, TX 78209 Services: Sunday mornings at 11 am
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
ST. ANTHONY DE PADUA CATHOLIC CHURCH 102 Lorenz Road San Antonio, TX 78209 210-824-1743 stanthonydepadua.org Services: Saturday mass 5pm Sunday mass 7:30am, 9am; 10:30am, 12 noon Daily mass 9am Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday ST DAVID'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH AND SCHOOL 1300 Wiltshire Ave. San Antonio, TX 78209 saintdavids.net Services: Sundays at 8& 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays at 7:30 a.m.
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 eucharist at 8am during the school year 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 UNITY CHURCH 8103 Broadway San Antonio, TX 78209 unityofsa.org Services: Sunday 11am Children’s Church 11am
For more information visit www.SanAntonioChurches.com. 58 | October 2018
www.78209magazine.com | 59
78209 MAGAZINE
News ( By LESLIE FOLEY )
Celebrity Chef Tour
Hotel Emma will be hosting the James Beard Foundation's Celebrity Chef Tour dinner on October 28 at 6:30 p.m. Eight renowned chefs from around the country will showcase their culinary talents at the event, each featuring a signature dish. The night will kick off at 6:30 p.m. with a cocktail reception hosted by Hotel Emma’s Chef John Brand, followed by a dinner benefiting the James Beard Foundation. The dinner will feature dishes from special guests, including Charleen Badman from FnB in Scottsdale, Arizona; Rick Lopez from La Condesa in Austin, Texas; Michael Scelfo from Waypoint, Alden & Harlow in Cambridge, Massachusetts; Steven Redzikowski from Oak in Boulder, Colorado, and Acorn in Denver; Daven Wardynski from Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort in Amelia Island, Florida; and hometown chefs Tim McDiarmid from Tim The Girl and Steve McHugh from Cured. Dinner and dessert will be followed by a Q&A session with the evening’s chefs. Tickets for the dinner are on sale now at www.jamesbeard.org/events/sanantonio. Tickets are $175 for James Beard Foundation members and the public. For more information, please visit jamesbeard.org
Boozy Book Club
Bud Light Haunted River
Music, a costume contest and adult beverages combine for a ghoulishly good time. Eerie sounds and sights haunt the River Walk while families trick-or-treat. The event is on October 26, from 6:00 to 10:30 p.m., as well as at the Arneson River Theatre and River Walk from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Music plays from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. with a costume contest from 8:00 to 9:00 p.m. 60 | October 2018
If you haven’t heard of this club, it might be one worth checking out. Members come together at quarterly Boozy Book Club events, at which they discuss a preselected work and learn more about the many services provided by the San Antonio Public Library System. All Boozy Book Clubs are included in membership. Boozy Book Club welcomes First Edition Society Members for free. The First Edition Society is a dues-based group of individuals who support the San Antonio Public Library Foundation and strive to strengthen the library in service to their community.
Alamo City Comic Con
Locally grown in our own backyard, Alamo City Comic Con is one of the largest comic conventions in the United States. The Alamodome will be the place to see 100,000 fans October 26 through 28. Arnold Schwarzenegger will be there, as well as Rick Moranis, Patrick Renna, Natalia Cordova, William Shatner, Daphne Zuniga, Paul Reubens, John Cusak, Billy Zane, Dee Wallace, C. Thomas Howell and a host of others. Don’t miss this awesome lineup, and make sure to check out the costume contest!
Sister Cities International
Seven San Antonio Lawyers Come Together to Form Dynamic New Law Partnership
Seven highly respected San Antonio attorneys have announced that they have partnered to form Barton Benson Jones PLLC, a new firm concentrating on commercial real estate development, land use, water, property owner’s association, finance, mergers and acquisitions, business start-ups, and corporate law. Formed in 2018, the firm’s partners include J. Cary Barton, Devin “Buck” Benson, J. Bradley Jones, Jerome B. Cohen, Jeffrey A. Walsh, Shanna Castro and Kacy Cigarroa. Other key lawyers in the firm include Yelena Seletskaya, Paul Hunt and Katherine O’Neill. The new firm brings a combined 172 years of legal experience in the San Antonio market, and each of the attorneys have been widely recognized for their expertise, professionalism and integrity.
Olmo Park Youth Commision is co-sponsoring the Kids 4 Kids with Cancer Annual Pumpkin Carving Event
Photo By Ava Greenberg
Mayor Ron Nirenberg has appointed Suhail Arastu, director of advancement for Musical Bridges Around the World, to the Board of Directors of Sister Cities International. The mission of Sister Cities International is to promote peace through mutual respect, understanding and cooperation – one individual, one community at a time. Arastu also serves as the mayor’s appointee to San Antonio’s Public Art Commission and is the chair for arts and culture for Anuja, the organization overseeing Sister City relations between San Antonio and Chennai, India. Since its inception in 1956, Sister Cities International has worked to create relationships based on culture, education, information and trade exchanges. Participants develop lifelong friendships that provide prosperity and peace through person-to-person “citizen diplomacy.” Today, Sister Cities International continues to expand its reach and strengthen existing relationships. Members boast exchanges in arts and culture, business and trade, youth and education, and community development that not only bring them friendship, but helps them to tackle the world’s most pressing issues at the local level.
Olmos Park Youth Commission Founders: Sam Spezia-Lindner, Henry Satel, Ava Satel, Eli Greenberg
Olmos Park Youth Commission Launches
Young people in Olmos Park will have an opportunity to learn about and serve their city. The Olmos Park Youth Commission launches this month, bringing together youth aged 11-18 for community service and to learn about leadership and enterprise. They will get to tour local businesses and meet people from an array of professions. OPYC will officially begin its membership drive as a co-sponsor of Kids 4 Kids with Cancer’s annual pumpkin carving, which takes place Sunday, October 28 at 3:00 p.m. in Olmos Park on the lawn of Alameda Circle. Young people residing in Olmos Park and Olmos Park-adjacent are eligible for membership. By joining OPYC in it’s inaugural year, young people will have the unique opportunity to be designated as a founding member. Olmos Park Youth Commission was co-founded by four Olmos Park teen residents: Eli Greenberg, Ava Satel, Henry Satel and Sam SpeziaLindner.The cost of membership is $30/member annually. Contact: 210-602-2573 with interest or questions. www.78209magazine.com | 61
78209 MAGAZINE
Calendar DON’T MISS THESE ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT EVENTS
Nature Connects at the San Antonio Botanical Garden
The Alamo Heights Methodist Church Pumpkin Patch
Portraits of Courage
Through September 30th THE WITTE 7 - 10PM President George W. Bush’s Portraits of Courage is 66 full-color portraits and a four-panel mural painted by President Bush of service members and veterans who have served our nation with honor since 9/11. Each painting is accompanied by the inspiring story of the warrior depicted, written by President Bush.
www.wittemuseum.org.
special drop-in programs for children ages 6-11. They learn to explore science through hands-on experiments and activities.
www.thedoseum.org
Free Knowledge Tuesdays Every Tuesday
WITTE MUSEUM 3 – 8PM Every Tuesday, admission to the museum is free. Tour the exhibits, learn about Texas history, and see historical artifacts.
www.wittemuseum.org
Alamo Heights Farmers Market
Every Friday
Every Sunday
THE DOSEUM 3 – 4PM Located in Innovation Station at the DoSeum, Maker Workshops are
225 E BASSE RD 9AM – 1PM This event is free and open to the public.
Maker Workshops
Alamo Heights Farmers Market features vendors with farm fresh selections, including fresh produce, grass fed/grass-finished beef, lamb, goat and wild hog meats, chicken, eggs, kombucha, pecans, honey, gourmet coffee, lemonade, pet treats, organic cleaning supplies, and many more exciting products.
www.facebook.com/ AlamoHeightsFarmers Market
Nature Connects: Art with LEGO Bricks
Thru December 31
THE SAN ANTONIO BOTANICAL GARDEN 9:30AM - 5PM Nature Connects is an award-winning sculpture exhibition by Brooklyn-
based artist Sean Kenney. Created with nearly half a million LEGO® bricks, these thirteen natureinspired displays include a larger-than-life Monarch butterfly and a six-foot hummingbird on a trumpet flower!
www.sabot.org
STEM Workshop Warhol by the Numbers October 6
THE SAN ANTONIO BOTANICAL GARDEN 9AM - 4PM Connect math concepts with works by Andy Warhol and other Pop artists in this workshop co-presented by the McNay, the UTSA Mathematics Department, the Institute of Texan Cultures, and the Southwest School of Art. Teachers receive continuing professional education credit.
www.thedoseum.org
The Alamo Heights Methodist Church Pumpkin Patch October 7
ALAMO HEIGHTS METHODIST CHURCH MON- SUN 9:30AM - 7PM Bring the little ones for fantastic fall photos, and pick out a pumpkin to take home.
www.ahumc.org
McNay Second Thursdays Band: Big Cedar Fever October 11
THE SAN ANTONIO BOTANICAL GARDEN 6 - 9PM A night of music, art, food and drinks! Enjoy free admission to the museum during this family and pet-friendly event. Tour the main galleries, and bring your lawn chairs to lounge on the grounds while listening to this month's featured talent Josh Big Cedar Fever.
( EDITOR’S PICK ) The 48th Annual Witte Game Dinner October 15
THE WITTE 6-10:30PM This year’s theme, Rio Fandango, celebrates the San Antonio River. Don your best western attire for a night of fandango and fun, with an array of sizzling wild game cuisine, one-of-a-kind silent and live auctions, and a country music concert for kicking up your heels at the end of the evening! The Witte Museum’s Game Dinner is renowned throughout Texas, and this year, it will be bigger than ever at the new Witte campus along the San Antonio River.
www.wittemuseum.org
62 | October 2018
Beer and several food truck options will be available.
www.mcnayart.org
Barcelona Barbecue October 16
CENTRAL MARKET COOKING SCHOOL 6:30 - 9PM Escape on a culinary adventure to the coastal Mediterranean city of Barcelona. Enjoy the evening as you create this inspired menu that makes the most of the grill: sangria, seafood paella, grilled steaks and more.
www.centralmarket.com
Evening For Educators: Pop América, 1965–75 October 18
THE MCNAY 5 - 8:30PM Discover the exhibition Pop América, 1965–75, a landmark exhibition and the first to explore Pop art in the Americas. Unlike Pop artists in North America who have been long perceived as politically
neutral, artists in Latin America engaged in political resistance embracing the Pop aesthetic. This bilingual exhibition provides a breathtaking view into a tumultuous decade of revolution and social change. Following the keynote address, tour the exhibition, and attend hands-on workshops.
wwwmcnayart.org
Succulent Arrangement Class October 20
THE SAN ANTONIO BOTANICAL GARDEN 9:30 - 11:30AM Walk the succulent wall with experienced succulent grower Don Clowe and learn how to artfully display and successfully maintain containers of succulents. After the outdoor adventure, plant your succulent arrangement with master gardener Stephanie Jones. Fee: $45 includes materials.
www.sabot.org
Halloween at the McNay
Zoo Boo!
Sept 22 – Oct 28 SAN ANTONIO ZOO 9AM – 6PM The zoo will be decked out for Halloween fun with trick-or-treat stations, a hay maze, pumpkin painting, dance parties and a costume contest. Families can even enjoy a ride on the Zoo Boo! Express. Kids are encouraged to wear their best costume for a chance to be in a costume contest.
www.sazoo.org
OCTOBER SPOTLIGHT
Halloween at the McNay October 26
THE MCNAY 7 - 10PM Calling all ages 21 and up! Join us for our fifth annual Halloween Party for a night of dancing in the McNay courtyard. Enjoy boo-zy drinks, light bites and a fun dance party. Be sure to come dressed for the costume contest! Tickets are $35 per person. Stay tuned online for ticket sale announcements.
www.mcnayart.org
ReDo - Fall Fest October 26
THE DOSEUM 7 - 9:30PM Don your favorite scarf and cozy up for a nostalgic evening of classic carnival games,
fall-themed food, drinks and activities. Stroll through hay bales, dance around the cakewalk, bob for apples and more. ReDo events are created for adults 21 and over, and include complimentary drinks, music and access to the DoSeum’s children’s exhibits.
www.thedoseum.org
Learn @ Lunch: Pumpkin Delights October 31
CENTRAL MARKET COOKING SCHOOL 12 - 1PM Whether you are planning a monster bash or a family gathering, you’ll want to learn to create these fresh, seasonal pumpkin recipes.
www.centralmarket.com
2018 Monarch Butterfly and Pollinator Festival October 19 - 21
PEARL STABLE 11:30AM - 1:30PM The Texas Butterfly Ranch presents the 2018 Monarch Butterfly and Pollinator Festival, three fantastic days of science, education, art and celebration. The Festival takes place during peak Monarch migration season, when migrating monarch butterflies east of the Rocky Mountains funnel through Texas on their way to Mexico to roost for the winter.
www.texasbutterflyranch.com
ZooBoo! at the San Antonio Zoo www.78209magazine.com | 63
Police Blotter ALAMO HEIGHTS POLICE DEPARTMENT
AHPD
CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS DIVISION
6116 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 822-2164 FAX (210) 822-7111
08/20/18 500 blk Broadway RECOVERED STOLEN VEHICLE An officer stopped a vehicle reported as stolen in San Antonio earlier in the day; male subject taken into custody claimed membership in a violent organized gang. 08/22/18 500 blk Austin Hwy ASSAULT/FAMILY VIOLENCE A female victim was assaulted by a former boyfriend during an argument. 08/22/18 100 blk Arcadia THEFT Uninstalled windows were stolen from an apartment under construction. 08/22/18 100 blk Terrell FORGERY A male subject presented a forged check against a company account; when bank employees questioned the validity of the check the subject fled, leaving the check and his identification behind. 8/23/18 5400 blk Broadway THEFT An unsecured bicycle was stolen from a porch during the overnight hours.
64 | October 2018
08/28/18 5400 blk Broadway ATTEMPTED THEFT A subject attempting to steal copper wire was scared off by workers arriving to the construction site. 08/29/18 5100 blk Broadway ATTEMPTED FRAUD A resident received a message on their laptop informing them their laptop had been hacked; when the resident contacted the reporting company their suspicions were heightened when the company representative requested money be transferred via an unknown app. 08/30/18 100 blk Bluebonnet HARASSMENT An ex-boyfriend was regularly making unwelcome contact, which included banging on doors and windows. 08/30/18 200 blk Grove WANTED PERSON A male subject was reported to be seated in a restaurant without any intention of placing an order; further investigation discovered the subject had an active arrest warrant issued by Bexar County for Criminal Trespass.
08/23/18 200 blk Inslee FRAUD, THEFT OF PERSONAL IDENTITY INFORMATION Female subject was observed tampering with gas pumps; investigation discovered an electronic credit card skimmer had been placed in the pump to collect credit card and personal information from customers.
09/01/18 100 blk Elmview VIOLATION OF PROTECTIVE ORDER A resident reported he is receiving harassing and threatening phone calls from his ex-wife and an unknown male subject in violation of a protective order prohibiting the ex-wife from any telephone communications.
8/24/18 100 Blk Harrigan Court RECOVERED STOLEN VEHICLE The San Antonio Police Department reported they had tracked a vehicle into Alamo Heights that was recently stolen from their jurisdiction; AHPD officers located the vehicle in a rear parking area in the 100 block of Harrigan Court and took the driver into custody.
09/02/18 5900 blk Broadway ASSAULT/FAMILY VIOLENCE, EMERGENCY DETENTION A disturbance between a couple became physical, resulting in minor injuries; the male subject was taken into custody for assult and the female subject was taken to a hospital for evaluation of alcohol abuse.
08/27/18 6900 blk Broadway WANTED PERSON Driver stopped for a traffic violation was discovered to have an active arrest warrant issued by Bexar County and two traffic warrants issued by Alamo Heights Municipal Court.
09/02/18 100 blk Terrell Rd DWI/ACCIDENT Officers were called to investigate an accident where a vehicle struck a parked car in the street; investigation determined the driver of the striking vehicle was under the influence of alcohol and impaired.
On The Market
REAL ESTATE
78209 HOME SALES
The following are home sales for Alamo Heights ISD and North East ISD in ZIP code 78209 for August 2018. Source: San Antonio Board of REALTORS® Total Sales- 44 Average Price- $573,343 Median Price- $447,000 Days On The Market- 111
78209 in Alamo Heights ISD: Total Sales- 31 Average Price- $652,694 Median Price- $499,000 Days On The Market- 113
78209 in North East ISD: Total Sales- 8 Average Price- $390,500 Median Price- $401,500 Days On The Market- 82
www.78209magazine.com | 65
Vintage View 78209 MAGAZINE
A LOOK BACK
1939
City of Alamo Heights employees pose in front of the city’s new garbage truck.
66 | October 2018