SA Monthly Magazine by SA Monthly Magazine

SA MONTHLY MAGAZINE

CEO & PUBLISHER SA MONTHLY MAGAZINE DM RODRIGUEZ

samonthly@gmail.com Direct Line: 210-215-3403 ~~~~~~~~~ CREATIVE EDITOR & LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER Waldinei (Wally) Lafaiete ASSISTANT EDITOR JR Fisher BUSINESS EDITOR Steven James BUSINESS WRITER Jeremy McGilvrey PUBLICITY EDITOR Emily Reynolds CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Jeanne Albrecht GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Danielle Oliveira & Danijela Tuba BEAUTY/SKIN CARE EDITORS Crystal Holmes FASHION EDITOR Lari Nelson ART EDITOR Susan Oliver Heard CHARITIES/POLITICS EDITOR Desiree H. Serna SR. LEGAL EDITOR Brent De La Paz INSURANCE EDITOR Gerardo 'JJ' Ramirez Jr. TRAVEL/HOME EDITOR Fiona Arecchi HOME DECOR EDITOR Laura Curtis FITNESS EDITORS Skie Molinar SOCIAL SCENE EDITOR Sherie L. Johnson CONTRIBUTING WRITER John Robert Mack SOCIAL EVENT EDITOR Sandra Shreve BEAUTY & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR/ON CAMERA HOST Jessica (GourJess) Gabriel LIFE & BUSINESS COUCH EDITOR Noemi Costlow REAL ESTATE EDITOR Dana Phillips

333 W. Olmos Dr. #117 San Antonio, 78212

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CONTENTS SA MONTHLY MAGAZINE

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From left to right: Hope Pedraza, Crystal Holmes, Grecia Dilley & Michelle Taylor Photography: Lafaiete Photography Hair: Dominic Alonzo & Charles May Creative Direction: Charles May Makeup Artists: Cristina Lopez & Alex Lobos Location: The Paramour Furniture: Europa Imports

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SUCCESS AND THE CITY Text by John Robert Mack - Contributing Writer

ow do you measure success? Money? Fame? Power? For four amazing San Antonio women, success is measured in how much they help others and the city of San Antonio itself. Their stories share several intriguing properties: hard work, perseverance, training, and faith in oneself. They all chose to follow their passions and persevered until those passions bore fruit. Did these women believe they should have success handed to them on a silver platter? No. They worked hard, trained diligently, and created astounding success through their industrious efforts. Hope Pedraza has had a passion for rhythm and movement since she could walk, and this passion has directed her entire successful career! After a decade of teaching fitness and earning certifications in numerous movement styles, Hope opened inBalance in 2012. She has one main goal: to create a love of movement in each and every client she meets, knowing that movement and dance are the keys to health and long life. She strives to make San Antonio a happier and healthier city. Crystal Holmes abandoned a successful life in the corporate world to strike out on her own. What started out as a “hair removal business” has grown into an A-list

spa destination for socialites and leaders of opinion of San Antonio, but in spite of her incredible success professionally and financially, what does she really credit as her greatest success? “When you keep your vision on the mission of helping people, the business will work out.” Grecia Dilley had a vision: helping women who were tired of feeling like just another customer at big box fashion stores. She started with thirty dresses in her own home, meeting individually with women and helping them to find their inner Diva, and now, with Fashion Diva Couture Showroom, she brings the fashion sensibility of LA and New York to San Antonio. She loves to see her clients shed their inhibitions and embrace their true inner Diva. Michelle Taylor has changed the way San Antonio views hair. She has delivered runway-ready styles to anyone in San Antonio who wants them, even if they aren’t walking the runway. While she literally styles hair for local celebrities and models, she focusses on training her team of stylists in the latest trends and styles across the globe to keep San Antonio at the forefront of style and fashion. Success? In the City of San Antonio, these women embody every aspect of the word.

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CRYSTAL HOLMES BIO2 SKIN STUDIO “Don’t make it about the dollar. Make it about the people you are helping. When you keep your vision on the mission of helping people, the business will work out.” “I’m sure everyone thought I was crazy,” Crystal Holmes said recalling the time when she shared with her friends and co-workers that she was leaving a 16-year corporate career to start what she then called a “hair removal business”. Despite her many years of business and leadership training, Crystal knew it was a leap of faith to jump into the entrepreneur world. What she didn’t know at the time was how strong her faith would grow as a result of the countless miracles that occurred over the coming years. “We were hit with some pretty great adversity early on in the business venture yet each time things would seem hopeless, something unexplainable would happen that would catapult us to the next level.” That hair removal business has now grown into one of San Antonio’s top Medspa’s and is the preferred skincare destination for many of the city’s big names, including models, TV personalities, politicians and executives. “Taking care of your skin is not just vanity. Your face is your brand and feeling confident can often be a game changer, especially in competitive industries.” Crystal says. Additionally, Bio2 Skin Studio and Medspa has become a frequent destination for students, mothers, beauty bloggers and people of all ages. “We are proud of the diversity of our clientele. Our

pricing is affordable by design so that we can be accessible to everyone,” she noted. Crystal believes in a hands-on leadership approach and received state certifications to perform professional treatments yet she credits her “unbelievably talented staff” as her secret sauce. “Not only are they dedicated professionals with a passion for the industry, they are all just really incredible women who work well together and they absolutely love our clients. You can train skill but you can’t always train passion.” Crystal remembers one of the first pieces of advice she received as a new entrepreneur. “Don’t make it about the dollar. Make it about the people you are helping. When you keep your vision on the mission of helping people, the business will work out.” Now, four years in, she can look back and validate that as sound advice. “With spa’s seeming to pop up on every corner, our clients have remained extremely loyal. We create relationships and that goes a long way.” The greatest thing Crystal has witnessed as a business owner has been the outpouring of support from other local business owners. “It’s incredible the way San Antonio supports each other. There is not enough room to list all of the people who have helped us along the way

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"I think it’s critical that we all follow our inner compass, wherever that leads. I don’t believe that is ever crazy. ”

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but there are some beautiful selfless people in this city who just have a genuine desire to watch people succeed. For me, the measure of success has always been to work hard to be in the position where I can help others in the same way.” So while some may have thought she was crazy to leave the comfort and stability of her corporate job, Crystal respectfully disagrees. “I feel as though I gained great knowledge and experience in the corporate world. I loved it and it was a key part of my story. But this is ultimately what I was meant to do. I get to make quick decisions. I get to help people. I think it’s critical that we all follow our inner compass, wherever that leads. I don’t believe that is ever crazy. ” As we watch her vision grow over the coming years, it will be hard to anticipate exactly what that vision will look like. What we do know, however, is that it will involve service and helping others. A true story of success.

www.bio2skinstudio.com

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GRECIA DILLEY FASHION DIVA COUTURE "Seeing my customer with a big smile and glow on their face as they stand in front of the mirror gives me enormous satisfaction knowing they feel special."

Grecia Dilley, owner of Fashion Diva Couture, is a 33 year old entrepreneur, mother of 2 boys and a wife. Her Fashion Diva Couture Showroom started as a dream 3 years ago with only 30 dresses on a rack in a room in her home. A year later, she had an opportunity to open a small showroom which has been open now for 2 years. Fashion Diva Couture not only sells dresses, but has a jewelry [Snazzy Designs] section and a hair stylist [Dominic Alonzo] next door ready to give women the complete look they need. She recognized the need to bring the latest fashion trends that you see in Miami, LA, NY and Europe to San Antonio at affordable prices. The concept of a fashion boutique showroom was a novelty

in San Antonio because that concept is something more commonly seen in larger metropolitan cities. The showroom concept allowed her to meet her clients in a more personalized environment which allowed her to understand their needs and unique style. She is available to see her clients from Monday to Friday by appointment only and Saturdays. She is open from 12pm to 4pm and her showroom concept gives women personalized attention. Grecia believes that women have grown tired of being treated like a number at the traditional box retail stores. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I receive enormous satisfaction when women come to my showroom, shed their comfort zone and I get to see their happiness first hand as they try on a unique style they thought they would never wear. Seeing my customer with

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a big smile and glow on their face as they stand in front of the mirror gives me enormous satisfaction knowing they feel special,“ she says. Grecia hand picks every dress she sells to her clients and only carries a few of the same styles to keep diversity. In addition to personally meeting with customers, she is her own buyer and social media promoter for Fashion Diva Couture. Fashion Diva Couture currently sponsors and dresses former Miss San Antonio USA 2015/ Miss South Texas USA 2016 Isabella Radovan who is a strong contender for Miss Texas USA 2017. She also frequently dresses TV hosts for Univision and occasionally dresses TV hosts from other local TV stations as well. She is truly honored that they have chosen her clothing and trust her styling. During her short 3 years in the fashion business, she has conducted and or participated in several charity fashion shows at: Sonterra Country Club, La Cantera, The Dominion Country Club, Eilan Resort & Spa, The Brick, St. Anthony Hotel, Garden, JPrime Steakhouse and Club Rio.

Fashion Diva Couture was previously nominated in 2015 for Retailer of the year at the San Antonio Fashion Awards and Grecia is honored to be once again nominated for 2017. The SA Fashion Awards ceremony took place this October at the Tobin Center. “I'm blessed to have been nominated twice and to me, that's already a win,” Grecia says. “Building a fashion retail concept from the ground up has been both rewarding and challenging, but my customers are what drive my passion for fashion.” Fashion Diva Couture is more than a brand, it is an ever evolving idea that brings the latest fashion to San Antonio.

www.facebook.com/FashiondivabyG/

“Building a fashion retail concept from the ground up has been both rewarding and challenging, but my customers are what drive my passion for fashion.” Grecia Dilley

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HOPE PEDRAZA INBALANCE "She had one main goal: to give people an opportunity to love movement as much as she does and provide them options for classes that they would find nowhere else in town." Born and raised a Southern girl in Louisiana, Hope Cowgill has had a passion for rhythm and movement since she could walk and hasn’t stopped yet! She danced her way through high school and college before discovering the benefits of Pilates and the mindfulness of yoga. She became a group exercise instructor her first year of college and began teaching group fitness classes while coaching and choreographing for local dance teams. After graduating with her Master’s Degree from Louisiana Tech University, she continued to teach Pilates part time and coach dance and moved to San Antonio in 2009, where she continued to teach high school and coach while furthering her Pilates education.

After a decade of teaching fitness, working with Division 1 athletes from Louisiana Tech and Trinity University, and earning certifications in fitness and Pilates, including becoming a licensed Fletcher provider, a 500 Hour BASI Comprehensive Pilates, and a Certified Personal Trainer through NASM, and a certified Nutrition Coach through NCSF and The Nutritious Life, Hope opened inBalance in 2012, a fitness and wellness studio offering yoga, pilates, barre, dance and fitness classes in San Antonio. While running her business in its start up phase with a full time job, Hope eventually “retired” from her day job as a high school teacher and cheer coach. Devoting herself full time to her studio, her true passion, she had one main goal: to give people an opportunity to love

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movement as much as she does and provide them options for classes that they would find nowhere else in town. Her classes at inBalance rely on a variety of proven methods that take students out of their comfort zone, strengthening the body and improving flexibility by developing a balance that utilizes a fun and focused approach to movement, and all of this is done with top-notch instructors. If you ask anyone who walks through the doors of inBalance they will tell you that the classes are great, the variety of classes is like nowhere else, and that they are challenged each and every time. But all of those amazing attributes aside, there is a reason they keep coming back: because being there feels good. It’s not enough for a member to develop a physical work-out regimen, because her goal at inBalance isn’t to create a fad dedicated to fitness. The goal is to create a lifestyle that demonstrates a love of movement and prides itself on connecting the mind, body, and spirit for wholeness.

But Hope wants people to see ﬁtness as an overall sense of wellbeing that builds upon a sense of community. It is her mission to empower everyone who walk in the door to become the best version of themselves, and to nurture their bodies from the inside out. She hopes to inspire people to get moving, while also following their dreams. She knows all about the risk involved in starting your own business, as well as the constant grind of keeping that business up and running in an ever-changing and evolving industry; but, she will tell you that the risk and the turmoil and the sleepless nights are worth the reward of bringing a positive change in others’ lives that they may not have experience otherwise, all of this through cultivating a love of movement. Her belief that movement is the key to longevity is the driving force behind every decision she makes and she will continue to work hard to bring out the inner-dance in all of us! www.inbalancesanantonio.com "Hope wants people to see ﬁtness as an overall sense of wellbeing that builds upon a sense of community. It is her mission to empower everyone who walk in the door to become the best version of themselves, and to nurture their bodies from the inside out. "

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MICHELLE TAYLOR SMOOTH LINES SALON "Michelle has always taken the lead on education, training her staff, and being the final word in creative direction of her salon." So much more than just the owner of Smooth Lines Salon, Michelle Taylor is also a Master Hairdresser with three decades of experience in education, fashion and beauty. A native of San Antonio, she graduated from Robert E. Lee High School with a Cosmetologist license and immediately dove into the world of hairdressing. Having always been ambitious, after nine years of working for others, Michelle went into business for herself opening Smooth Lines Salon at just 27 years old. Specializing in beautiful runway-ready hair, Michelle has always taken the lead on education, training her staff, and being the final word in creative direction of her salon. Her valued experience is derived from years of advanced education, namely Bumble and bumble in New York City, of

which she has consistently paid for her staff to attend twice a year. Michelle has also done regular editorial/print work, and was the mastermind behind News 4 San Antonio’s ‘Monday Makeover’ for three consecutive years. Established nearly twenty years ago, Smooth Lines Salon has grown to be a staple in the high-end hairdressing community of San Antonio. And, her salon has served as a launching point for the careers of many current salon owners, nationally recognized hairdressers and local hairdressing educators. After decades of crafting the way San Antonians wear their hair, Michelle Taylor has created a lasting legacy for the City of San Antonio that will carry on years into the future. www.smoothlinessalon.com

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Michelle's Smooth Lines Salon has served as a launching point for the careers of many current salon owners, nationally recognized hairdressers and local hairdressing educators.

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FEMCITY FemCity is an engaging community for women that includes business programs and connection events all immersed in positivity.

www.FemCitySanAnton

nio.com

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Lynette Young, Marketing Chair of FemCity San Antonio

Deyla Elliott, President of FemCity San Antonio

Lindsey Danielle Schibi Ph.dC, Membership Chair of FemCity San Antonio

Lynette is a family business coach and specializes with clients residing in retail, services, franchise, and direct sales companies. She strongly feels that family-owned businesses are a unique and vibrant part of our economy and deserve to be cared for, invested in, and celebrated. Practicing what she preaches, Lynette, along with her husband, are co-founders at ClaimWizard, a software platform created for the public adjuster insurance industry. A lifelong Jersey Girl, Lynette recently moved her family and business to San Antonio in 2017. www. lynetteyoung.com Deyla assists women professionals out of a lethargic state of being into an enlivened, strengthened, and fulfilled modus operandi! As a certified health coach, her role is to create a transformative sphere for women to make the tool which they use to tend to all of the needs that beckon daily – their very person – the focus of necessary attention and care, making her that much more effective! From incorporating more real and whole food into one’s consumption to figuring out what physical activity one’s body responds best to, and to what nourishes the innermost parts of one’s being – obtaining Health From “Dey” to Day! www.HealthFromDeyToDay.com Lindsey welcomes the opportunity to increase exposure and promote camaraderie among professional members of the FemCity chapter. As a Psychological Life Coach & Youthologist, she assesses people and the youth to see if traditional therapy is a good path for them. Her goal is to help people learn and accept themselves from past to present and make a new forward momentum for themselves and their future endeavors. As a psychological educator and mentor, Lindsey gives her clients real-world examples and encourages positive thinking in order to nurture and foster their own personal dreams and passions. www.Lindseyschibi.com

emCity is an engaging community that includes business programs and connection events all immersed in positivity. FemCity is an innovative business community for women with locations throughout the US and expanding globally. Connect locally virtually; collaborate in person and online; share & promote your business; be inspired & get motivated to create your grandest vision of business in balance with life. Our mission is to connect women through the creation of local FemCity communities that capture a worldwide market supported through local Events, Workshops, Socials, social media, and the FemCity interactive website. Our mission is composed of many diverse and innovative components. The first is to provide a welcoming and supportive environment for all women regardless of industry, religion, political affiliation, race and ethnicity through FemCity programs and website resources. The second is to enable women worldwide to reach their ultimate potential by offering endless platforms through the FemCity Organization to promote their businesses and passions, as well as offering an abundance of resources through our innovative website. The third is to create a community for these women and provide a means to cultivate and develop longstanding and dependable relationships enforced and supported through our events and website FemCitySanAntonio.com.

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Julian Tovar Member, National Board of Governors Gala Chair Area Representative Human Rights Campaign

THE GALA EVENT OF THE YEAR! YOU CAN'T MISS IT!

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he Human Rights Campaign San Antonio Gala is the largest LGBTQ fundraising event in San Antonio, bringing together nearly 500 people each year as we work towards full LGBTQ equality and civil rights. The evening is kicked off by a red carpet entrance to the event with a cocktail reception and silent auction. It's the place to see and be seen! VIP attendees receive early entry to the silent auction. Dinner is served throughout the program. The program includes honoring corporations, allies, and advocates in the community while highlighting the work of the Human Rights Campaign. We welcome you to join us for an incredible evening!

www.hrcsatxgala.org

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Make Every Day Taco Day at Taco Libre

Rd #101 6511 Ingram peration Hours of O to 2 pm riday: 6 am m Monday - F 7 am to 2 p d Sunday: Saturday an

Call : (210) 592-6288 http://www.tacolibresa.com

Taco Libre is a small cozy taco restaurant serving other popular menu items such as burritos, bowls, taco salads, nachos and popular Tex-Mex plates. On the weekend, come taste what some are calling the “BEST” menudo and barbacoa in town. As Chef Gilbert DeLaPaz says:

“Any time is Taco Time.”

9386 Huebner Rd Suite #101 Phone: (210) 690-6000

2177 NW Military Hwy Phone:

Multi-Cuisine

(210) 290-9833

Serves lunch, dinner and drinks Takes Reservations Walk-Ins Welcome

Asian Fusion Restaurant · Thai Restaurant

Good For Groups Good For Kids Take Out Catering Vist our web page:

http://thaitopaz-sat.com/

BATTALION IN A NUTSHELL

Battalion is located in a renovated historic firehouse built in 1924 that sits at the entrance of Southtown San Antonio. This the fourth Goodman & Bowers-owned restaurant in San Antonio and is an Italian concept that combines Southern Italian and Italian American, making it the best of both worlds. From antipasti, appetizers and housemade pasta, these Italian classics are made to perfection. Battalion owners, Chef Stefan Bowers and Andrew Goodman have been featured by publications such as Food & Wine and Bon Appetite. The building renovation kept elements such as the original brick and fire poles. And the expansive windows and touches of modernist glam such as fine crystal, marble and custom chandeliers, give guests of Battalion the best views in the city as they dine on what Texas Monthly hails as some of the “best pasta in the state."

Restaurateur Andrew Goodman and chef Stefan Bowers came to the concept after merging a family history of Goodmans with plenty of trips to Italy. Their inspiration also came from the desire to create a rustic industrial space that maintained its historical integrity as best as they could — keeping the fire poles was nonnegotiable. The 1920s industrial meets modern glam look combines with the beauty of the building to create something truly unique and elegant.The duo have three other award-winning and highly lauded concepts in the city which all meet the criteria of being showstoppers complete with awe-inspiring aesthetics and modern meets classic menus. Feast, located in historic Southtown, and Rebelle and Haunt both located in the historic St. Anthony Hotel.

The Seven Drinks of the Month

The Rock Bombay Sapphire Gin, Cynar, Cardamaro

The Leatherhead Bulleit Bourbon, Grand Poppy, Cocchi Vermouth Jaws of Life Seersucker Gin, Lemon, Thyme, Absinthe Rinse The A-Side Cinco Vodka, Limoncello, Raspberry FH7 Cinco Vodka, Galliano, Bitter Lemon Soda The Arsonist Tequila, Campari, Amaretto, Blood Orange Soda The Tillerman Maker’s Mark Bourbon, Cocchi Americano, Orange Bitters

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Stone Ridge Address: 20811 Highway 281 North San Antonio, TX 78258 Phone: (210) 495-0188 Monday-Thursday 11:00am – 9:00pm Friday-Saturday 11:00am – 10:00pm Sunday 11:00am – 8:00pm

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SOUTHTOWN’S NEWEST UPSCALE LUNCH OPTION Southtown has no shortage of fabulous dinner options, but until now the lunch scene has been a bit lacking. But this summer, the San Antonio chef power couple, Damien Watel and Lisa Astorga-Watel, have teamed up to merge pop with classical for the incredible upscale lunch that the business scene in Southtown has been waiting for. In a part of the city with limited daytime options, the arrival of the Bistro-Bite lunch power duo is a game changer. The two chefs have combined their culinary prowess and are now open Tuesday through

Friday from 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. in addition to their dinner and highly lauded brunch service. The former Chez Vatel Bistro clientele can now get their Bistro fix, and the current Bite clientele can now bring their evening Bite obsession into the light with decadent lunch combinations like Tuna Nicoise with Goat Cheese Gateau or Escargot and a Bite Burger. Wash it all down with a signature Bite cocktail, and you won’t ever want to go back to the office. Southtown's lunch scene won't ever be the same.

SUMMER MANGO SALSA 4 servings / 1 serving = 1/2 cup Final-CHEF-Stamp-KNOCKED-OUT_33INGREDIENTS 1 large mango 1 large avocado ½ red bell pepper 1 lime fresh mint or cilantro, about ¼ cup ¼ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon chile powder (optional) Boston Bibb lettuce

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Chicken leg quarters

sautĂŠ to a golden brown in a hot pan with a little 1 c. red wine oil. Add chopped bacon Thyme and mushrooms for bonus 1 onion, chopped flavors. Place the chicken 2 carrots, chopped pieces in an oven-safe dish 3 stalks celery, chopped with the red wine mari4 pieces of bacon, chopped nade, and cook in a 350 Mushrooms degree oven for about two and a half hours. Remove Marinate chicken leg quar- chicken, and reduce the ters in red wine and aro- braising liquid for sauce. matics (Thyme onions car- Serve over pasta, rice or rots celery) for 24 hours. mash potatoes. Dry the chicken pieces and

DIRECTIONS Slice the mango around the pit and cut into the mango in a checker-board pattern. Flip the mango inside out and slice the fruit into a large bowl. Slice the avocado in half; remove the pit and slice into the flesh in a checker-board fashion. Scoop out the flesh. Add the avocado to the bowl with the mango. Finely chop the red bell pepper and add to the

bowl with the mango and avocado. Slice the lime in half and squeeze the juice into the bowl. Stir gently with a spatula. Tear leaves of mint or cilantro off the stalk. Chop gently and add to the bowl. Season with salt and chile powder, if using. Stir gently. Separate the leaves of lettuce from the core and rinse under cold running water. Dry well. Serve the salsa in individual lettuce cups.

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Top Chef Of the Month... I am Chef Gilbert De La Paz, the owner and creator of Taco Libre. I come with over 34 years of working in the food industry. As a teenager, I worked for my parents that owned several donut shops in Pampa and San Angelo, Texas. Over the years I worked in many restaurants of different cuisines. In 2013, I was an Honors Graduate from the San Antonio Campus of The International Culinary School of The Art Institute. Since graduating, I worked for several local Chefs such as Chef Johnny Hernandez of La Gloria, Chef Jesse Perez of Arcade Midtown Kitchen and most recently, Chef Carino Cortez of Viva Villa Taqueria. It is a homage to my many contributors in my style of cooking. My abuelas (grandmothers), my Tias (aunts) and of course my parents.Taco Libre is themed after the Lucha Libre wrestling from Mexico. The artistry and talent that the famous Luchador wrestlers exhibit, is very much in the thought in creating our tacos. We serve breakfast tacos all day because like I preach, "Anytime is Taco Time"

"I always wanted to have

my own little space where I could make delicious tacos that were soul-satisfying, so that is why I took a leap of faith and created Taco Libre.

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...and Signature Tacos...

""Signature Tacos" Lucha Libre Taco- A toasted flour tortilla filled with melted mozzarella cheese, refried beans, grilled beef asada and chunky guacamole El Santo Taco- A toasted flour tortilla filled with melted mozzarella cheese, refried beans, grilled chicken asada and chunky guacamole Blue Demon Taco- A toasted flour tortilla filled with melted mozzarella cheese, refried beans, grilled pork pastor and chunky guacamole

...and Signatue Drinks of the Month "Agua Fresca" I have pictured two flavored limonadas, made from fresh squeezed limes, Mango-Limonada and Raspberry Prickly-Pear Limonada. Also pictured is our Horchata. Made of a puree of rice, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla and almonds.

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Best Taco Restaurant of the Month

Taco Libre is a small cozy taco restaurant serving other popular menu items such as burritos, bowls, taco salads, nachos and popular Tex-Mex plates. On the weekend, come taste what some are calling the "BEST" menudo and barbacoa in town. As Chef Gilbert DeLaPaz says: "Any time is Taco Time."

6511 Ingram Rd. Suite 101 Call (210) 592-6288 6511 Ingram Rd. Suite 101 (210) 592-6288 www.facebook.com/vivatacolibre Opens at 6:00am 6:00AM - 2:00PM

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THE COUNTY LINE To help you ease into the fall/winter season, Garrett Stephens, the Assistant GM/Chef of County Line Bar-B-Q on IH-10 near the Colonnade, is sharing the recipes of four of his favorite cocktails from the new slate of handcrafted specialty cocktails he and his team created. Other specialty cocktails include Bacon Maple Old Fashioned; The Smokehouse Gibson; Cucumber, Basil, Lime Gimlet; Strawberry Basil Martini; Frozen Rebecca Creek and Coke; Blueberry Mojito; The John Daly and a great line-up of Texas craft beers. Make up a batch or head to County Line; cocktails and beers are discounted during its Happy Hour, Mondays through Fridays from 3 to 7 p.m.

TEQUILA MOCKINGBIRD A twist on a literary classic: In a shaker, combine 2 oz. of tequila blanco, 1.5 oz. watermelon basil puree (see below), ¾ oz. lime juice, ¾ oz. agave nectar and ice and shake. Shake long enough to fully dissolve the agave nectar. Strain and pour into 10 oz. highball glass; garnish with lime wheel. Watermelon puree: Puree 2 cups watermelon and 3-4 fresh basil leaves in blender. Strain mixture through a fine mesh strainer; will keep for 7-10 days.

PALOMA Pack an 18-oz. goblet (or large glass) with ice. Pour 2 oz. tequila blanco, ½ oz. fresh lime juice and 4 oz. of Jarritos Mexican Grapefruit soda. Garnish with grapefruit slice.

PAINKILLER In a shaker, combine 2 oz. light rum (Bacardi or Cruzan), 4 oz. pineapple juice, 1 oz. orange juice, 1 oz. cream de coconut and ice. Shake well and pour into glass. Add a floater of dark rum and sprinkle on ground nutmeg. Garnish with orange slice and cherry.

37 THE PEACH MOJITO In shaker, combine 1.5 oz. light rum (Bacardi or Cruzan), ¾ oz. lime juice and 1 oz. simple syrup. Shake well. In a separate glass, break up 5 mint leaves into the peach puree (recipe below). Pour puree into mason jar. Top glass off with Topo Chico mineral water and rum mixture. Garnish with mint sprig. Peach puree: Thaw 2 lbs. of Dole individual quick frozen peaches to room temperature. Once thawed, add to blender with 1.5 oz. of simple syrup and ¾ oz. of peach monin syrup. Blend until smooth.

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Thai Topaz is our...

"Healthy Thai Cuisine Restaurant of the Month"!

Family, Hard Work & Healthy Food Thai-Topaz-FoundersThai Topaz, a San Antonio favorite, family-owned restaurant, was founded in 2005 by Somchai and Jiraporn Namarsa, my parents. Although Dad and Mom have different educational backgrounds, running a Thai restaurant brings out the best of their talents.

a ceramic tile plant, part of the Siam Cement Group (SCG), a multinational, Thai company. In 1990, SCG gave him the opportunity to come to the US to build and manage a new, tile-manufacturing facility in Clarksville, Tennessee. My mom gave up her 20-year teaching career in high school Biology and we moved to My dad has a mechanical the US. engineering and business background. In Thailand, prior to the Because of my momâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s educarestaurant business, he managed tional background in Biology and

her love for cooking, she started working with a restaurant owner in Nashville, TN controlling the food quality and creating new, healthier, yet tasty dishes. In 1998, she started a food cart business, Thai House, in Madison, Wisconsin. For seven years, Thai House was always ranked in the Top 3 out of 30+ food vendors for cleanliness, taste, and uniqueness. In 2005, my parents decided to move to San Antonio and opened Thai

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Topaz. But, why so much moving… from TN, to WI, and finally to TX, one might ask? It was for me, their only child and daughter. I went to high school in TN, college in IL, grad school in WI, med school in CA, and then did my residency in Family Medicine atTexas A&M. It was just the three of us back then, so my parents did whatever they could for us to be together. After the project in Tennessee ended, my dad gave up his promotion and pension rather than move us back to Thailand. For many years, my parents worked 18 hour days. My mom single-handedly sliced 100+ pounds of chicken weekly, rolled hundreds of spring rolls a night, while my dad chopped pounds of squash for the curry in our VERY cold basement in Wisconsin and served customers from their food cart in sub-zero weather. My parents’ goal was to make and save money so they could send me to medical school. I know people make sacrifices for their children, and mine always did. But, those years in Wisconsin outdid the rest!

The recipes and sauces for Thai Topaz are long in the making. Even in the 1950s, my grandparents recognized the importance of good nutrition, resulting from the preparation and cooking of fresh meats, vegetables, fruits, herbs, spices, etc. They rarely deep-fried their food and used minimal oil in their stirfry dishes. My mom grew up making food for her family of seven with innovative and creative techniques to use fresh

ingredients and homegrown herbs/spices to cook healthy, delicious food (she still grows herbs such as lemongrass, basil, mint, kaffir lime leaves, etc. in her garden for the restaurant). In college, she catered for large dinner parties and organized many school events.While teaching Biology, she was chosen as the nutritionist to consult with and overlook her high school’s cafeteria, food quality. Now, in her 60s, she continues to learn

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and bring all her experience into the kitchen. In my opinion, she is the Thai Martha Stewart, as she can also carve, knit, crochet, sew, arrange flowers, etc. and has won several contests and awards in doing so. Since opening Thai Topaz, I have seen my parents introduce a few original recipes (e.g. Spicy Mango Delight, Spicy Basil Fried Rice, Thai Topaz Broccolli, Shrimp Asparagus, Emerald Salmon, etc.), in addition to the many customer-favorite, classic dishes (e.g. Pad Thai, Pad Woon Sen, Pad See Ewe, Yum Nua, Curries, etc.) Surprisingly, I have also seen my parents remove some of my favorite ones (e.g. Roasted Duck Curry, Pumpkin Curry, Massamun, Thai Papaya Salad, etc.) as they told me that few customers tried them while

on the menu. But, what has to be our son’s favorite (he’s almost 3) is the Sweet Sticky Rice w/ Fresh Mangos or the Homemade Coconut/Mango Ice-Cream for dessert. I am slowly convincing my parents to bring back or add more Thai dishes and desserts, as more Texans are experiencing Thai food and appreciating the tastes and blends of herbs, spices, and preparation styles, which are different from the ones used in Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese, and other Asian cuisines. To end, I know that your (i.e. Thai Topaz customers’) opinion and input matter very much as my parents continually take your suggestions to heart and would like everyone to enjoy the same, warm, family-dining experience we have in our home. On behalf

of my parents, I’d like to thank everyone for your continued support. If we can make your experience a better one in any way, please don’t hesitate to tell us or drop us a note.

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41 Sincerely, Somjira Namarsa (Forever, Loving Daughter) We thank everyone for your continued support and we promise to continue providing exceptional Thai cuisine and a great dining experience.

THAI TOPAZ LOCATIONS: 9386 Huebner Rd #101 Phone: (210) 690-6000 2177 NW Military Hwy Phone: (210) 290-9833 www.thaitopaz-sat.com

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DISHES OF THE MONTH Appetizer 1) This appetizer is a very popular house special as well. (Description: Mussels, red curry, white wine, garlic, lemongrass, coconut milk, lime juice) Soup 1) A traditional Thai soup that most people know about and associate with Thai food. (Description: Spicy clear soup, lemongrass, lime leaves, lime juice, mushrooms, tomatoes in hot pot) Entrees/Main Courses

1) This one of main dishes we're known for "Spicy Mango Delight" or "Mango Delight". We're "Home of the Spicy Mango Delight". You won't find this dish in any other Thai restaurant as it's a House Special. (Description: Fresh cut mango, ginger, carrots, onions, bell peppers, fresh basil) 2) This is another of our House Specials, the "Emerald Salmon". (Description: Atlantic salmon, asparagus, avocado, green curry, tamarind sauce, coconut milk) 3) Our Latest House Special you won't find anywhere else. (Description: Grilled lamb chops, lemongrass-tamarind sauce served w/ coconut, jasmine rice). 4) This is the dish that you liked. (Description: Fresh asparagus,Thai chili paste, bell peppers, fresh basil) 5) Adding this for your viewing pleasure, for completeness.This is a traditional, Red Curry dish. (Description: Red Curry, bamboo shoots, green beans, bell peppers, fresh basil, coconut milk)

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BAR AND RESTAURANT OF THE MONTH

BAR AMERICA

44 At Bar America we have a passion for craft beer, and we support our local San Antonio breweries. We have a 24 tap system, and over 50 canned and bottled beer, and our kitchen puts out some amazing bar grub 6 days a week! Bar America started off as Café America in 1942, founded by my great-grandfather Joe Ramirez. In 1957, my great-grandfather made the decision to change Café America into Bar America. Since its inception, Bar America has undergone four major changes.

kitchen pumping out some amazing bar grub also! We have over 50 craft beers, as well as an additional 30 domestic or import cans, bottles or drafts to choose from. We've gone from a café to a bar, moved from our original location off Main to S. Presa and moved again from S. Presa to S. Alamo Street. Most recently, after 70 years of a cash- and beer-only bar, we started selling liquor in April of 2014.

After more updates and overhauls to our 80 year old Our current progress includes, building, we are finally settled at a large patio area in the back our location today! with full bar, a 24-tap craft beer draft system. We have a full My great-grandfather and

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grandfather have been big on customer service since the beginning. They've taken pride in knowing the names and chosen drinks of regulars. They've also upheld a zero-tolerance policy for BS by unruly bar patrons. When I took over the business in April 2014, I brought back a lot of what was lost when my grandfather retired. One of the most important things to us at Bar America is to continue the vision my great-grandfather and grandfather had for this business. My grandfather Martin put Bar America on the San Antonio map when we moved to our current location at S. Alamo. It was a meeting place for artists, blue collar workers, politicians and students. My grandfather built a strong foundation which has

given me the opportunity to build on and expand. Many of the bar's original elements from its inception in 1942 stay with us today. The neon Bar America sign we use today was built in 1943, and our main bar is the original bar from our first opening. We have been a family-owned business for over four generations. My great-grandfather owned the bar from 1942 until the mid-sixties, my grandfather Martin owned it from the mid-sixties until 2009, my uncle Joe owned it from 2009 to 2014, and I have owned it from 2014 to the present! It was not uncommon for my family to have to ban unruly, rude bar patrons who bother our other customers from time

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BAR AND RESTAURANT OF THE MONTH to time, and it's not uncommon for us to do the same today. Long story short, enjoy your drink, follow the house rules, and leave your disrespect at the door or you may be asked not to return.

A Word From Our Owner

It was not uncommon for my family to have to ban unruly, rude bar patrons who bother our other customers from time to time, and it's not uncommon for us to do the same today. Long story short, enjoy your drink, follow the house rules, and leave your disrespect at the door or you may be asked not to return. Enjoy your drink, have fun and always be respectful of others! Brian Correa, Owner

beers, as well as an additional 30 domestic or import cans, bottles or drafts to choose from.

Enjoy your drink, have fun and always be respectful of others! Brian Correa, Our current location Owner was built over 80 years ago and is located a little The current location over a half mile away for The Bar America from The Alamo. I don't was built over 80 years believe in ghosts, but ago. since I've taken over the bar, it hasn't been uncommon to experience unusual events or see things caught on camera that we can't explain. 723 S Alamo St See for yourself if you notice anything unusual (210) 223-1285 when you visit!

Have a drink with us!

baramericasatx.com

Our current progress includes, a large patio area in the back with full bar, a 22-tap craft beer draft system. We are currently undergoing inspections for our kitchen, which should be finished by the end of the year! We have over 50 craft

Bar & Grill Âˇ Bar Âˇ Live Music Venue Opens at 3:00pm 3:00PM - 2:00AM Closed Mondays Tuesday - Saturday : 3 PM - 2 AM Sunday : 12 PM - 12 AM

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JS FINE WINE & SPIRITS WINE STORE OF THE MONTH JS Fine Wine and Spirits has been taste-making San Antonio's wine pallet for over 20 years. Located in the heart of the city, they specialize in a personally curated array of wine, spirits, specialty foods spanning from all 4 corners of the world. Wine Entrepreneur, Joe Saglemebi, has wine in his blood, literally. His family has one of New York states oldest single digit liquor licenses opening immediately after prohibition,fully stocked 3 days after prohibition ended to be more specific. Fast forward to 1994, after years professionally mastering and educating up and coming pianists, he turned his ivory into wine when we opened JS Fine and Wine and Spirits. How does a small boutique wine shop thrive for over 20 years? The answer is simple: loyal customers, passion, and expertise.

Let's start with customers, walk up to anyone hanging out at the store during the weekly complimentary Saturday wine tasting (11-5pm) and it's hard to to find someone who hasn't known Joe or been coming to the store for years, some customers up to 20 years, with lots of new customers getting introduced to and falling in love with the store weekly. You can thank the 6-8 complimentary wine tastings for that. Since day one, Joe has made it his mission to let customers "try before they buy...How else are they going to venture out an try new wines?" Laughingly replied Joe. Every member of Joe's team are passionate about wine and not there just for j-o-b. "When you have a team of people passionate about what they are doing, they are happy to come to work and talk to customers about their interest and choices in wine." The hardest thing for our team members is for them to shut up and stop geeking out when they find another customer who shares their love for Barolo, Chablis or sparkling Gamay." Take a walk into though the store and you are immediately hit with a nostalgic feeling of what happens when small business and passion collide. From in-store specials to small batch limited production wines, there is bound to be something for everyone here. If you don't know what you are in the mood for or need party or dinner pairing ideas, there is plenty of help to walk you through options all price points. There is something special and unique about this place from it's grocery chain dwarfing collection of Italian and French wines to it's shelves lined with beautiful bottles all tasted and selected by Joe and his amazing knowledgeable staff. Stop in and take a tour during the week when customers leisurely come and go through the day or add the Saturday tasting to your calendar and join the family of customers and friends enjoying the complimentary tasting, ever-changing food trucks, tree deck and newly crafted big deck to take cover from the sun enjoying a cold glass of rose under fans, shade and new friends.

www.jsfinewines.com

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WINE OF THE MONTH One of the best parts about falling in love is that sometimes it slaps you in the face when you least expect it. That's exactly what happened with Tubullent, 100% Sparkling Gamay. It smacked us and we fell head over heels. Turbullent, Loire Valley's Domain Stephane Serol's 100% Gamay is Organic, hand harvested seeing natural fermentation and NO ADDED SUGAR in a French tradition "Methode Ancestrale." Upon sight, the bright color pulls you right in falling between a debatable "Barbie Pink "(ahem) and almost electric or neon. One of our team members described the color as Fuchsia, but we fired him for that comment. Just kidding-not really. Honestly, who really knows what color fuchsia is? Turbullent seduces you right back in with soft raspberry and floral aromas, juicy red fruits and FUN, effervescent mouth-filling bubbles. With San Antonio's October recovering some September's sizzle this is the perfect cool off approach to the time of year we spend more time at brunching, bubbling, bbqing and backyarding with friends and family. Turbullent sparkling Gamay is one of our favorite "pre-game" sparkling wines, or a perfect pair with creamy and funky cheeses, deserts and a also a joy on it's own. With only 8.5% alcohol, Turbullent has been one of our summer favorites and an easy top pic moving into the holiday season, extremely hard to resist and the wine you never knew you needed in your life.

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Graphic Designer â&#x20AC;˘ Illustrator â&#x20AC;˘Painter Juan Lemus Artist of the Month! I have been working in the graphic arts, illustration, and fine art fields for over 15 years, and still enjoy it. Everytime I start a design or painting project, I do not stop untill all details and final product are completed. Creative concepts: Logo design, layout, design and production.

Print design: Layout, design, and production (CMYK, trapping, etc.). Digital design: Web design, concept, layout, production (RGB, 72dpi, etc.). Software experience with Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, Acrobat, Flash, Dreamweaver, WordPress. Portfolio: https://juanlemus.carbonmade.com/ Paintings: http://juanjlemus.com/ For more information, you can contact me directly at: 210 537-5581

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Lyn Belisle Studio

www.facebook.com/creativebelonging/

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eorge Krause was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1937 and received his training at the Philadelphia College of Art. He received the first Prix de Rome and the first Fulbright/Hays grant ever awarded to a photographer, two Guggenheim fellowships and three grants from the National Endowment for the Arts. Krause's photographs are in major museum collections including the Museum of Modern Art in New York, the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, The Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the BibliothĂ¨que Nationale in Paris. In 1993 he was honored as the Texas Artist of the Year. He retired in 1999 from the University of Houston where in 1975 he created the photography program and now lives in Wimberley, Texas. www.CinnabarArt.com

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ANA FERNANDEZ ARTIST OF THE MONTH

ignettes of Ana Fernandez's childhood seep through the layers of paint and expose her obsession with capturing the ordinary moments of domesticity and free enterprise in ever changing south Texas. She brings to life snapshots in time and actual momentary realities of the neighborhoods of San Antonio.

Her work reflects the synonymous emotions of these neighborhoods that are sometimes idyllic, sometimes forlorn. There are scenes that leave you wondering about the story of an old house or the life of a west side entrepreneur featured in one of her paintings.

Ana Fernandez is a prolific artist working in San Antonio. She received her BFA from the school of the Art Institute of Chicago and her MFA from UCLA. Her roots as a native Texan began in Corpus Christi, but she has been practicing in San Antonio for 13 years. She is one of the most exciting artists to watch right now because her work has been featured this year at the McNay Art museum, Institute of Texan Cultures, Centro De Artes, Southwest school of Art, and Cinnabar and in late August she will have a solo show in Los Angeles, CA. In March "Magic Time Machine" at Cinnabar featured thirteen of her works and was awarded the Artpace award for Contemporary Art month.

Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the character of the scratches of time left on an old truck or timetranscending luminous bridal mannequins, she has an unmatched ability to realistically capture the cultural, psychological, and spiritual realms of these singular sights that surround her.

Wood panels and watercolor paper hold these dioramic moments of her perspective- these folds in time. She uses varied subjects to illustrate metaphors. Her automobiles may represent mobility, while a roadside rose vendor plays be the feminine protagonist of an unwritten manuscript in her mind.

Experience in person the realism of Ana Fernandez as she summons the memories of places familiar to our city. Acquire one of her depictions of the businesses that feature hand painted signs- signs that appear and disappear like jumpy castles that rise for a day of exuberance only to deflate and relocate to the next venue.

Ana Fernandez's work celebrates beauty in unusual and mundane places. She gives new meaning and celebrates the unique marks people make on the world, respecting what they have built for themselves and the delicate stack of memories that lie beneath. www.CinnabarArt.com

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Ana Fernandez in her studio

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The vulture stared at John. It perched on the rusty railing of a dilapidated bridge John needed to cross. The wooden walkway might be riddled with dry rot, so John stopped the dirt bike on the deserted caliche road. It was a vulture, wasn’t it? What did John know? He’d grown up in New York, in the Ghetto his family had shared with the other minorities. Vultures hadn’t figured prominently in the local fauna. Big, creepy bird, anyway. On the other side of the bridge, some kind of village sat atop a cliff along with trees and things. Since the drought of 2074 had scorched the entire state, “trees and things” were even more rare in Texas than they had been in the Ghetto.

So John had to pass the vulture. Fine. John had faced down Lucifer himself; he could handle a stupid bird.

He climbed onto the railing opposite the bird, which followed John with its black, beady eyes. It ruffled its feathers with a sound like rattling knives. Yikes! John nearly lost his footing. Keep it together. Lucifer, remember? John resumed his cross. Of course, John hadn’t known at the time he’d faced Lucifer, and Michael had handled the actual “facing down.” Which had been stellar, the first time John had seen “Uncle Mike” in full-on Archangel battle rage.

75 So, yeah, John moved in circles that should have precluded being creeped out by a flying carrion eater. Should have…. When John reached the other side of the bridge, he flashed the vulture the bird. It leapt into the air and flew off. Good.

"John faced the cliff. Fitty feet or more, it would make an imposing climb fraught with loose stones and difficult handholds. For the first time in a while, John grinned"

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Back to the present. Woosh! What was t

"This was more like it. He’d grown up running the rooftops in the Ghetto. If he could climb it or skip the edge of it, it had belonged to John."

Okay, so Mr. Creepy Vulture had a lot of friends. Fine. John closed his eyes. He was a Prophet, the kind where the capital P could be heard. But what did that mean? He had visions of the future and sometimes he could read minds. Because that didn’t freak people out. But here? Nothing. Could a tree full of death eaters mean nothing?

He and his friends had done what they could to free the ghettos, walled-off neighborhoods filled with minorities. The Pipeline hoped to prove that the government had lied, that the disease had been an excuse to seize control.

Screw it. Where was he? On top of a cliff. Lots of trees and stuff, an empty village, and no obvious reason his tinier village, Nevada, Texas hadn’t taken over this spot.

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Ugh. Something… dark… poisoned… John relaxed. He centered… nothing more specific hit him. He approached the nearest building.

A ghost? What the hell? What did it mean?

Continue reading "Third Testament Apocryphon" at www.samonthlymag.com Story and Photography by John Robert Mack Model: Wesley De La Rosa

Wait. Movement. What was that? A boy?

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COMING SOON!

SAMONTHLY@GMAIL.COM

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The Lanier collection was featured by breakout designer Daiquonne Lanier.

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Marcus Peoples MA LE MO D E L O F T H E M O N TH

My name is Marcus Peoples. I am a 2017 graduate of Texas State University where I received a bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree in public relations with a minor in business administration. I will be pursuing my graduate degree in the fall where I will be getting my masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree in public administration with a concentration in human resources and labor relations. I have been modeling since the early age of 7. Since then I have worked with many companies such as Pearson Education, Academy Sports & Outdoors, Schlitterbahn and many more. I have also had the privilege of working with Tony Parker of the San Antonio Spurs and his clothing line called WapTwo for the last 3 years.

Along with modeling, I was heavily involved in many organizations and a collegiate athlete throughout my college career. I played wide receiver for Benedictine College in Atchison, Kansas my freshman year and also played wide receiver for Texas State University my sophomore year. Currently, I am signed with SLAMM Management in Atlanta as I continue to progress in both the modeling and acting industry. I attended the Model & Talent Expo in Dallas in 2013 where I placed first in the Fashion Runway Division, Fitness Model Division and received a scholarship to the New York film academy along with over 10 callbacks.

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My parents placed my sister and I with Lari Nelson at a young age. This is where I started to find a passion for the industry. I plan to take my career to new heights as I am constantly working to perfect my craft. My goal is to get my masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree while pursuing my dream in both modeling and acting but I could not have accom-

plished anything without the love and support from my family. I am blessed to have consistent work in print, film and fashion.This profession takes much patience but I am grateful for the many people that have helped me to get where I am today. I look forward to traveling in the coming months to work for other companies.

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Bold Bright and Beyond Beautiful By Lari Nelson Fashion Editor

Make Fall Your Red Moment. Dramatic Colors that can be worn by the patio or out to a casual dinner. Get noticed wherever you go in red tones for Fall.

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Embrace the Romance, Effortlessly and Chic ....

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Bold Bright and Beyond Beautiful

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EARLY FALL FLOWERS HAVING A MAJOR MOMENT By Lari Nelson - Fashion Editor

The new early fall flowers are bold and beautiful. The styles are effortless and easy to wear , perfect for the San Antonio weather. Hemlines are skimmed with ruffles and straight lines to make things interesting.

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9 KAYLIANA ANTONIA FERRELL MODEL & ACTRESS OF THE MONTH "It is only a matter of time before everyone sees this fresh-faced beauty everywhere." hPhotography: Wally Lafaiete hCelebrity Makeup Artist: GourJess hProduction: Eva Ferrell

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odel and actress Kayliana Antonia Ferrell was born May 4, 2001 on Andrews Air Force base, Maryland. Her mom and dad were both active duty Air Force at the time. They soon received military orders to Lackland Air Force base in San Antonio, Texas. Her younger brother Aiden was born and her parents received orders to Tokyo, Japan. It was her first time out of the country. While in Tokyo, she would have strangers coming up to her parents telling them that she should be a model because of her unique beauty â&#x20AC;&#x201C; naturally curly hair with freckles on her face. She became interested in fashion magazines and would say how one day she would grace the cover of one of them. She even booked a few modeling gigs doing catalog work. After living in Japan for 3 years, she came back to the states and would walk around her house pretending she was a fashion model

walking a runway. Her mother began taking photos of her, which turned into photoshoots that would last for hours. She began modeling in her preteens after booking a few photoshoots with local photographers. She became friends with a teen model who introduced her to the world of runway. From there she began booking runway fashion shows even though she was not tall enough by industry standards. Her very first show was for Pensacola fashion week and ever since she has been doing photoshoots and runway shows constantly. Kayliana wants to inspire other young girls of all different shapes and sizes and show them that they can also pursue their dreams no matter what obstacles are thrown their way. She always talks about the importance of being confident in your own skin. It is only a matter of time before everyone sees this fresh-faced beauty everywhere.

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SAMANTHA SANDERS F E MA L E M OD E L OF THE M ON TH I was born and raised in San Antonio. I began modeling at around 11/12 yrs old. I believe it was my first hair stylist Mathew who suggested and recommended I get in touch with Lari Nelson which is where everything started.

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simply wanted to meet and keep in contact as I grow more as a model.

I returned again the following year and had another fantastic experience, walking away again with many call backs. After some difficult deliberation my mother, Lari and I all From that time on, I attended classes of decided that signing with Campbell agency Lari's 1-2 times a week receiving training in out of Dallas was the best choice. runway as well as education in print/commercial modeling, how castings and agen- For the time that I was signed with Campcies work and all other things a beginner bell, they were very good to me and proneeds to know about the industry. Nelson vided me with a lot of opportunities for Fashion Group / was My Mother Agent . castings and jobs. One of the first print jobs I ever received was through them at age 14, It started with runway shows at local malls a magazine cover for Sally's Beauty Supply and shops, some castings for various proj- in store mag. As well as a Pier One advert ects in town, a few entries and wins in teen and more. pageants like a local Miss Teen Hawaiian Tropics competition, and eventually at age My mother was always extremely support13 I attended my first ever Model and Tal- ive and helpful both mentally and physically, ent Expo in Dallas. often times she'd take off work on a days notice just to drive me to Dallas at 4am for With the preparation and help of Lari a job or important casting. She helped to Nelson / Mother Agent , I walked away (and in most cases at that age, solely) pay with many call backs by various national the dues that needed to be paid for any and international agencies, including some test shoots or making copies of my phothat work close with Disney productions, tos and comp cards for my portfolio. She nickelodeon, as well as many in the fash- never hesitated to invest in furthering my ion world. While that year turned out to career, and stood right by my side as long be a great learning experience, no direct as I needed her to. contracts were offered and many agencies

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For a couple of years in high school I was on a bit of a hiatus from working. As a teenager I guess I sort of became distracted by life and lost focus on modeling. It wasn't until I was about 18 maybe 19 that I decided to re-entertain the idea. As always, Lari was right there willing to support me and push my career all over again. I started attending her classes and participating in work around town. Landed some of my first paid jobs in years with many shoots for San Antonio Woman Magazine, the SA Express News fashion Mag TRENDS, and C San Antonio Magazine, building a great bond with a lot of great people and local hitters in town.

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It was 2007 and time again to attend another one of Mike Beaty's Model and Talent Expo in Dallas that had been successful for me years before. This time I walked away with a few awards at the end of the show, including Model of the Year, but more importantly I received multiple call backs from some very great agencies. They included Elite NY, Elite Miami, Vision LA, Next and many more. Went with Elite NY, which lead to temporarily moving to NY in 2007 and again in 2008. Booked some great jobs through them, including Target, Avon, Urban Outfitters web, Nordstrom web, some great fashion shows (which at only 5'8" in NYC that was quite unexpected and such an honor!) and also included the best so far, a 5-6 page spread in Seventeen Magazine!

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Elite then put me in touch with and sent me to Bangkok to work with the agency Super Red, spent two months over there casting and working. Resulting in a few commercials and lots of print, but more importantly the experience of exploring a brand new country. It was incredible and eye opening, but also very stressful and lonely as I was only 20 years old and traveling half way around the globe on my own. Something I wouldn't trade for any price though. The contract was for 2 months and after 1 I was so homesick and ready to return, luckily I had a stern but amazing booker back in New York who convinced me to stay the next month. I'm so glad that I did. I guess the stress of traveling alone so much and especially to Thailand took a bit of a toll on me, once I returned to the states I sort of fell into another break from working, stopped investing myself in the job for almost a year. Then late in 2009 at 21, Lari let me know that an agency I had been in contact with after my last Dallas expo was still interested in me, so I got in touch with them and was quickly relocated to a tiny models apartment in north Hollywood, a single room with two sets of bunk beds, usually shared with at least 3 or 4 other girls. Los Angeles became my favorite and most successful experience. I was so lucky that the girls I met and roomed with were so great.

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With Vision LA, I was lucky enough to book many great jobs, my first being the Forever 21 site, also including regular shoots in Milwaukee for Kohl's, various fashion lines' look books and websites, and my two favorites, getting the chance to be an extra in a Lady Gaga music video as well as a main feature in a collaboration between The Game, Justin Timberlake and Pharrell.

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time, my decision was right for me and made me happy and I am content with my choices.

For several years now I have been freelance modeling, mostly helping out friends and local photographers with ideas they're putting together. Some for pay, always for the love of the work. While it doesn't always come with a pay check, I enjoy art of modeling just as I spent the majority of 2010 in LA and much as ever. returned home. At that time and age, I wanted to live and express myself a cer- It feels incredible to play a part in so tain way, deciding to get more heavily many different types of people's dreams tattooed and even dye my hair funky and visions. Participating in collaboracolors. At the time, the big social media tions between uncountable photograburst like Instagram that helped popu- phers, stylists, makeup artists, hair styllarize, main stream and catapult tattoos ists and all other aspects involved has into a much more friendly and accept- been something I grew fond of from the able role in every Day society hadn't re- beginning, at 12 years old. Being in the ally happened. So to be a fashion model spotlight and getting lots of attention and be very tattooed was pretty un- doesn't hurt either, but more than that, common, and you couldn't expect to get it feels great to walk away after a shoot much work, the agencies wouldn't have or fashion show seeing how exhausted it. I was also about a year or two too but thrilled all involved are that their early for the big pastel hair trend that project was a success. hit and changed things up in the fashion world. I've been so very lucky in my life to get to do all of the things I've done and Had I stuck it out a little bit longer and meet all the people Ive met. I am eterwaited to do what I wanted, I may have nally grateful for all of it and am excited had a different path and been able to for what is to come. get my way and have both. But at the

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Text by John Robert Mack

onita is a force of Nature: like the seasons, the tides and the travel of the stars, she is unstoppable. When she takes on a new challenge, she meets it directly and invests all her energy. Sitting with her at the edge of a dance floor in the Ballroom Dance Annex, I am at once awed and inspired by the limitless energy which periodically yanks her out of her chair to move around the dance floor where she feels at home. As well she should, she had her own dance show, after all. She’d seen Dancing with the Stars and decided, “Bonita needs a dance show.” So she made one: Bailando Por Passion. She signed a oneyear contract with Aztec America and brought in Lee Rios and Angel Santiago to help with the choreography and to help her select the very best talent. She and Santiago literally took to the streets with a boom box and found amazing kids who might have no other chance to be on TV. The greatest success is that she managed an appearance on the show that started the journey: Dancing with the Stars. “They were hungry for it, and they gave it their all.” And that is Bonita’s motto. If you want something, go after it, give it everything you have and let nothing stop you. She gave those kids an opportunity, but it was up to them to grab it and work for it. She met kids who spoke no English, kids whose home lives were desperate and abusive. “You can be more than a dish washer,” she would insist. “You can have so much more than this life. You find your dream and make it happen.” That’s what has made Bonita such a success herself. Hard work. And her next success is just one year away: The Bonita Natural Model Competition. In December 2018, men and women in San Antonio will have an opportunity to vie for a contract with world-class modelling agencies, which will go to the top three contestants. Twelve runners up will be featured in the 2019 Bonita Natural calendar. Bonita is currently in negotiation with twenty-five major agencies around the world and dropped a few impressive names, but she forbade me from printing them. “Not until we get a firm commitment. But soon!” She’s lining up international designers, stylists, photographers and modeling coaches to work

with the competitors, who will compete in the typical categories like runway and photography, but one requirement is all Bonita: dance! “It doesn’t matter what kind of dancing,” she says, “but I want to see them dance!” Mind you, as she says this, she is up on her feet again moving to the music. And Bonita is singularly qualified to create exactly this kind of competition. She has held two titles, Mrs. Mexico and Mrs. San Antonio, and has worked professionally as a modeling coach. She has studied photography. She designs clothing and beauty products. Also, as I’ve already discussed, she produced her own television show. She isn’t just a businessperson who sees financial opportunity, she is a woman with extensive experience in the industry who wants to provide opportunity for aspiring models in San Antonio. She has travelled the world in her various careers and sees immensely talented models right here in San Antonio. She wants to bring the world to San Antonio and help San Antonio venture into the world with an event guaranteed to garner international attention. In another signature Bonita move, she has designed the competition to help those who are willing to help themselves. For the models, that means finding sponsors to pay expenses. From her own competition days, she knows how much work goes into finding businesses interested in sponsorship. For businesses, that means providing sponsorship, talent, or time to the competition as a means of promoting themselves at an event certain to provide exposure on a worldwide scale. All local professionals eager to take their businesses to the next level should contact her. “Don’t be afraid to be aggressive,” she declares, “don’t live by excuses. Nothing is impossible. Everything is possible. The beauty of your dream is as wide as the sky. Don’t wait for someone to hand you your dream. If you don’t make it happen, it won’t happen.” This is a woman who leads by example. She has strived tirelessly for every dream she has had. And now, San Antonio, she wants to share her dream with you. Are you strong enough to take up the challenge? Visit www.Bonitanatural.com for more information.

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"Don’t wait for someone to hand you your dream. If you don’t make it happen, it won’t happen.” Lorena Monroe, aka Bonita

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BOTOX

BY CRYSTAL HOLMES BEAUTY & SKIN CARE EDITOR

“Times were tough. I couldn’t pay my rent but I still refused to miss a Botox appointment!” In 2008, during a scary economic recession, there were still close to 2.5 million Botox procedures performed. What is it about these treatments that made patients so committed, or dare I say…obsessed? What made Botox seemingly resilient to a sluggish economy? Was it vanity? Are we living in such a looks-conscious society that we are just not whole unless we look as beautiful as our filtered Instagram idol? The answer may be found in what consumer psychologists like to call the “lipstick effect”. When finances get tight, we tend to cut big ticket items and spend our money on little indulgences that simply make us feel good. For example, instead of buying a new car, we might spend on a new outfit instead. Consequently, instead of getting a facelift or tummy tuck, affordable Botox injections became a quick mood lifter and confidence builder. These minimally-invasive cosmetic treatments tend to fill a strong emotional need during challenging times. Who doesn’t love a little boost of happy? In 2017, the numbers continue to rise and Botox can boast that it is officially a billion-dollar industry. The industry average cost per Botox treatment is $340 and Botox treatments last approximately 4 months before a touch-up is needed. The average appointment time is 30 minutes and downtime, if any, is minimal.

Fortunately for the industry, the old reputation of the Botox “frozen face” is gone and consumers are much more confident in having a safe, proven solution for a more youthful appearance without a loss of expression. Additionally, adding to the growth, more young patients are getting injections to freeze the muscles that create wrinkles, preventing them altogether! Imagine never getting a wrinkle! Once the decision has been made to jump on the Botox bandwagon, the greatest key to successful treatments is going to a reputable, experienced injector. Just because your foot surgeon performs Botox doesn’t mean he/ she is an expert. Do your due diligence. Ask for before/after examples. Check ratings. At Bio2 Skin Studio, we are honored to have expert nurse injector Dawn Garza on our staff. Dawn has been called a “Botox/Filler Artist” and her patients come from all around San Antonio and surrounding cities. To schedule with Dawn, please call 210-877-2639 and make sure you ask the front desk coordinators for an easy way to get great savings on Botox treatments! Times can be tough. It’s good to know that you don’t have to break the bank to look and feel like your old (ahem, young) self again. We look forward to seeing you! www.bio2skinstudio.com

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the way you work Â out

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ANDREA L. ALGAR,

HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITOR INTRODUCTION TO NEW EDITOR:

We welcome Andrea Algar as new Health & Wellness Editor to SA Monthly. We look forward to her articles on a variety of topics that improve the quality of life for many. Andrea has been in healthcare for over 30 years. Business management, public relations and marketing have been the focus throughout a career which has served several medical specialties.

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Andreaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interests are as numbered as they are varied, yet they have all led to accomplishment. She has authored countless how-to, self-help and informational articles, produced, filmed and edited video segments for Cable TV, designed websites, written web content, organized and hosted events, and created "Eye Candy Classics", a collection of her own classic car photography as art. Andrea first job was as a modeling instructor where at only 15 she proved she had what it took to help young girls learn makeup and personal presentation for photography and runway modeling. She worked for a private detective for several years before being recruited into the medical field. Her own writing of surveillance and investigative reports helped her discover

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her passion for writing and attention to detail. Over many years working for a specialist, she developed a level of expertise in anxiety disorders, phobia and OCD, becoming co-author and publisher of Phobic Update, a nationally distributed monthly self-help guide. She helped edit two books on panic disorders for the author, who was a leader in the field. Andrea became coleader of Upward Bound, a nationally recognized Fear of Flying group, and a group for those with a Fear of Public Speaking. Andrea has made presentations on a number of topics including marketing and the use of computers in business. The custom medical software she created in the mid-1980’s was presented at the Massachusetts Psychological Association’s annual conference to demonstrate how computers could be used in practice management as well as in determining treatment effectiveness, a detailed look at statistics which was needed in order to compete in the new practice of managed healthcare at the time. After a brief break from healthcare, and spending a few years working in architecture, Andrea returned to medical field helping a plastic surgeon establish a new practice in the Boston area. After relocating to Texas, Andrea began working with prominent plastic surgeon Dr. Robert N. Young, a position she continues after 13 years. Andrea spends her spare time creating custom websites and writing content for small business customers in a variety of industries including healthcare, beauty and fashion, equine, music and automotive through a consulting business she and her husband do together. Her husband Guy, a mechanical engineer, contracts to create CAD drawings for mechanical projects. He also performs repairs, performance upgrades and restorations through Motorheads Performance, a branch of their business which specializes in American classic cars and muscle cars from the 1940's through 1970's. Andrea handles all marketing and helps with projects from time to time and is currently performing a frame-off restoration of her own classic Corvette Stingray, a project expected to take a year or two to complete. She hopes her next project, a 1946 GMC pickup, is able to start afterwards. Andrea organized and hosted a classic car show which brought hundreds of enthusiasts together in a widely publicized event for two consecutive years. She publishes Classic Car News, a publication designed for enthusiasts of these vehicles, and has close to 100,000 Facebook followers on their classic car fan page. The Algars have actively been involved with horses for many years and met as a result of having them. As a toddler Andrea always

loved horses. When spending summers at her grandfather’s farm in Canada, she was outside as much as possible where draft horse Cindy and pony Prince were always in company. As a young teen she had her own horse and worked hard at the stable to help pay for his care. When her own children became interested in horses she was accepted into training with an international Dressage instructor after having to try out for a spot in his program. Her long-time companion and dressage partner, her Standardbred horse Jess, turned 31 years old this year, an incredible milestone for a horse. His best buddy, her husband’s horse Ebony, passed away last year at 32, a testament to their devotion and care. Andrea has been a student of Parelli Natural Horsemanship for 20 years and has seen firsthand that horse-human partnerships using Parelli methods allow for incredible accomplishments in groundwork, riding in all disciplines, and in performance events. The four recent equine additions to their ranch, all rescues from kill pens (where they hold horses slated for slaughter), have begun their Parelli training, including a 20 year old senior, two boisterous ponies and a young three year old who initially was unapproachable/untouchable without great effort. In four short weeks he was calmly accepting human touch and in two more weeks, eagerly running across the fields at the call of his name to “play” with his human friends. Andrea and her husband Guy settled in South Central Texas after moving here from the Northeast where they met. After years of long cold winters and very short seasons to enjoy hobbies they both enjoyed, they immediately fell in love with Texas after considering several States around the country to relocate to. Andrea has lived in 6 different states and has spent time with family in Nova Scotia and mainland Canada over the years, giving her a wide range of interests and life experiences. She has an inquisitive mind that enjoys learning all she can about the things that capture her attention. Her interests include writing, photography, horses, classic cars, as well as gardening and architectural design. She enjoys these pursuits at her rural ranch home in South Central Texas with her husband, horses, dog and cats. Andrea has two grown children who have their own successful careers. She believes life is too short not to enjoy all things you love including family, work and hobbies!

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Say Goodbye to Unwanted Fat by Robert N. Young, MD, FACS Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Fat reduction has always been a big concern for a lot of people. Ideally, physicians would tell you that diet and exercise are the best ways to address this problem. Unfortunately, that simple solution does not work for a lot of people. There are alternatives for this problem.

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If you are obese and weigh more than 80100 pounds above your ideal body weight, some type of gastric sleeve or intestinal bypass is a good alternative if you have exhausted the diet and exercise modality. For the vast majority of others who are a little overweight, there are several alternatives that are provided by Dr. Robert N. Young at his Stone Oak cosmetic surgery center. For those who want a non-surgical treatment with no downtime Dr. Young offers the most advanced CoolSculpting machine. CoolSculpting freezes your unwanted fat to a temperature that is cold enough to kill fat cells but not damage surrounding tissue. The in-office procedure takes an average of 35 minutes for the problem area and requires no downtime, with patients being able to return to work or other activities immediately afterwards. CoolSculpting provides both fat reduction and body sculpting with two treatments to each area treated. CoolSculpting can be an excellent alternative for busy men and women who need quick treatments with

no inconvenience. It usually takes several months to achieve maximum result, but many patients feel this is worth the ease of treatments and no long recovery times. For others who want to remove problem fatty areas quickly, we also provide inoffice liposuction in our certified Surgery Center. Multiple areas of troublesome fat can be addressed at one time. Liposuction contours the body and is not a weight reduction procedure. The average length of the surgery is 2 hours. Liposuction usually requires a few days to recover. The incisions are very small and patients go home in a girdle to minimize swelling and to help the skin retract. Many people who get liposuction also have fat transferred to other areas. The aspirated fat is filtered of the fluid and oils and then reinjected into other areas particularly the gluteal region to enlarge the buttock. This procedure is also known as the Brazilian Butt Lift. The fat has also been successfully injected into the breast for enlargement and into the face to enhance your lips or cheekbones. We have currently added the High Volume Process Auto Graft System to our practice of fat transfer to improve efficiency. The fatty tissue is suctioned out of one area, separated and a more purified fat is then pumped back into the buttock or breast region.

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“IT’S CANCER.”

The words no one wants to hear. After a long couple of weeks of testing, doctor visits, crying and self reflecting, 33-year old Christina Torres decided to share the news that she was diagnosed with breast cancer. At first it didn’t make sense. There wasn’t a history of breast cancer on either side of her family, she was in good physical health and she was so young! But it was, in fact, cancer, and she had to somehow prepare quickly for the fight of her life. “It started with just an itchy and tender lump in my right breast that I noticed a few months prior and didn’t think too much of it.” Fast forward a few months from the date of the announcement and life has already included difficult chemotherapy, a headshaving party (because SHE will decide when the hair comes off), wigs, headwraps and a gofundme account to help cover costs (gofundme.com/3le05qo). Life was somehow placed on fast forward and ready or not, Christina had to hold on. But she did more than just hold on.

Along with the outpouring of love and support from friends and family, Christina found her way to the driver’s seat and has chosen to face this head on. With an inspiring amount of faith, strength, positivity, and even humor, she has continued with a modified exercise routine most days each week and is sticking to a healthy lifestyle. A talented artist, community servant, activist and elementary school teacher, Christina has quickly gone from being inspired to being the ultimate inspiration. Over the next several months, she will undergo radiation, a double mastectomy, and reconstruction. It is inevitable to feel sad while facing this road and to have questions like “How will this impact fertility? Will I look like myself after reconstruction? How long will I have to wait between surgeries?” yet we always seem to find Christina joking around and sharing that big genuine smile that has become her signature. This chapter in Christina’s story is one that, unfortunately, so many can

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"Christina Torres has quickly gone from being inspired to being the ultimate inspiration."

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GOING BOLD IN THE BATHROOM! BY FIONA ARECCHI TRAVEL & HOME EDITOR

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e have all created a fearlessly decorated minimalist bathroom, reserving our crazy for other aspects of our life. Going bold at home can be hard to do, but if you are ready to step out of your comfort zone, start with the smallest room in the house period.

bathroom without overpowering it. Your bathroom boldness could start with hanging a large ornate mirror, or by introducing a colorful paint color, or you could hold your breath and jump in feet first as Sara Jane Williams did her in her tiny bathroom near downtown, San Antonio. Visiting from Competa, a small Andalucian village in Spain, Brighten up your bathroom with this her friend and artist 28 year old Luis year´s trend of colorful mosaic tile. A Felipe Romero Allsop transformed the versatile use of color tile arranged in smallest room in the house to what has interesting patterns will take any boring become the most interesting room in bathroom and transform it into an the neighborhood. Luis insists, “ I am interesting conversation piece. Bold not an artist, to me what I do is fun”. and distinctive mosaic in geometric This medium is an expression of his shapes and lively patterns bring uniqueness in the fantasy of freeform personality and energy to any small design.

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Your Home is Your Life Who Will You Trust With Your Life? SA MONTHLY MAGAZINE

The Dana Phillips Premier Team

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Over $210,000,000 in successful transactions closed When Buying or Selling a Home, Experience Matters. We are Highly Trained Agents with Proven Results

Call or Text (210) 846-5444 DanaPhillipsRealtor@outlook.com

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Marketing Properties For Sale

elling a home in 2017 is much different than it was even ten years ago. The main factor is technology and how it is used by buyers to find those homes. According to the Texas Association of REALTORS 2016 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers Texas Report; â&#x20AC;˘ Among buyers who used the internet during their home search in Texas, 93% found photos and 85% found detailed information about properties for sale very useful. â&#x20AC;˘ Information Sources Used In Home Search- 95% on line, 93% real estate agent, less than 1% used print ads such as magazines or newspapers. Obviously having a strong presence on the web and listings that are dynamic with multiple professional pictures, virtual tours and descriptions that tell the story about the property help selling homes drastically. Conversely, outdated forms of advertising such as print marketing, broker open houses and property flyers are very ineffective. Fewer buyers are driving around to look at homes and younger buyers rely on the web for most of their information. So, what do you need to sell your home for the highest possible price and in the shortest amount of time? Serious internet advertising. Advertising that showcases the home and describes the home enough that a buyer would want to go out and look at it. The best way to accomplish this is to hire a professional agent who has a track record of selling homes and a web presence that you can verify. One of the easiest ways to do this is to google an address that an agent you are considering working for has listed and see the quality and quantity of their web marketing. Are there multiple professional pictures? Does the home look staged? Is there a virtual tour? Is there a description that makes you want to see the home? Then look up the agent. Does the agent have a website? Is there a detailed description of the agents work history? Has the agent won awards for performance from reputable sources that you can verify? All this homework may take a few minutes but will get you with the right agent to get your home sold for top dollar. Dana Phillips REALTOR Phillips & Associates Realty 210-846-5444 #1 Individual Residential Realtor 2017- San Antonio Business Journal Top 25 Realtors in San Antonio 2017- US News & World Report Platinum Top-50 Realtor 2012-2017

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PROPERTY OF THE MONTH 145 Abarth Lane, San Antonio.

Experience life at the Dominion! Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll fall in love with this elegant single family home that overlooks the historic Lucchese Boot Ranch. Walk inside and experience decorator colors, crown molding, and brass fixtures throughout. The upgraded tiled entry leads to a grand living area with high ceilings and Mediterranean style pillars. Kitchen features stainless steel appliances, and breakfast bar. Dining room is enhanced with hard-wood floors, a beautiful chandelier and tray ceilings. With access to the elegant Dominion Country Club featuring a world-glass golf course, the Dominion Life awaits you! For more information on this home please contact Jordan Phillips at (210) 4544944.

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YOUR CREDIT CARD CAN EARN YOU FREE AIRFARE By Jeanne Albrecht, Owner & Travel Agent, Cruise & Tour Center If the idea of free airfare appeals to you, read on! All you need is good credit, advance planning and the need to charge X amount of money in a designated time. You still with me? By applying for different “loyalty rewards” credit cards—either those offered by airlines or by providers like Chase and American Express—you can earn a huge signing bonus (as much as 50,000 points and $3000 in travel credit) plus higher points than the usual one point per dollar spent. Obviously, the ones offered by airlines are good only on their airfares, but some cards offer “brand-agnostic” points that you can use with any airline, hotel, rental cars, tours and Airbnb stays. You may need to make a minimum purchase of $3,000 or more within a few months to earn the bonus points so leaving yourself enough time and comparing benefits between cards is essential.

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REMEMBER: you must pay off the balance in full EVERY month so you don’t hurt your credit score. Visit my “Trip Tips” page on my Cruise & Tour Center website for more information on this traveling strategy AND dream vacation deals at www.yourvacationhq.com. Happy Travels!

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SA Monthly Magazine 2018 Special Travel Edition Advertise with us! samonthlymag@gmail.com

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Austin City Limits 2017: Jay Z, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Gorillaz Headline By: Desiree H. Serna

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ustin City Limits Festival has made its mark on the world as one of the best mega festivals for music connoisseurs and music lovers, alike. On May 4th the 2017 ACL Fest lineup was announced and it was smoking hot! Initially, Red Hot Chili Peppers (which put on a rockin’ show at ACL-past in 2012) and Gorillaz were listed as main headliners. However, patrons were surprised with a staggering announcement that Jay Z, the “Jigga Man” himself was joining the lineup on both weekends. At ACL 2017, veteran musicians like Jay Z, Ice Cube, Chance the Rapper, Ryan Adams, Live, Foster the People and Eagles of Death Metal lit crowds with energetic sets. Tributes to past artists such as David Bowie, Tom Petty and Johnny Cash made waves with the audiences lending music nostalgia to many. Additional sentiments from artists also found its way to the crowds reminding audiences of unity, humanity, diversity and perseverance. The festival continues to offer goers an eclectic musical experience, booking hot top acts while also paying reverence to local ATX and upcoming acts. Over the years C3 Presents, the producers of ACL Fest and many other well-known festivals, have tweaked the festival scene to near perfection for ACL attendees. This year we saw some pretty cool changes from the familiar ACL layout at the 33-acre ATX Zilker park. The entrance that has traditionally been off the main road Barton Springs now acts as its security check and entrance. It also expanded the venue adding Barton Springs Stage area with some open area for festival goers. Lots of amenities were incorporated giving fest goer’s convenience including cashless wristbands, phone charging stations, locker and chair check-ins and a huge digital selfie station to name a few. ACL 2017 went down as per the usual, awesome!

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THE RESCUE OF THE BIG TOOTH MAPLE TREE When Baxter Adams started Love Creek Orchards in Medina, Texas, his main focus was growing dwarf apple trees in the first commercial apple orchard in Texas. It was exciting to be on the cutting edge of a new industry in Texas and it was during this time, Baxter got distracted by the Big Tooth Maple Tree. I was fortunate to be there through the hard work and perseverance as Baxter saved this native tree of Texas and now I enjoy the care and love for the tree with the new owners, Bryan and Staci Hutzler. It did not take long for the Maple tree to get under Baxter’s skin and he began researching it, especially when he found that Lost Maples State Park was losing new trees to the over population of the whitetail deer. The tree only seeds every seven years so he and his crew would go out each year to find seeding trees, collect thousands of seeds. For years he planted 3,000 to 5,000 seeds and only about 40 to 50 would poke their head out of the ground. Finally, he decided to use a more “high tech” method. He headed out with the crew, taking a kitchen spoon and a Dixie cup and actually got on their hands and knees, pushed away the leaves and uncovered the small one inch, or just over, of a stem about the size of a human hair with a tiny leaf,

dug them up and planted them in that Dixie cup. He beat the deer to them! The small prizes were brought to the nursery and carefully cared for. The care and growing of this plant has been a labor of love. They grow fast too, after the first year or so, you can expect the tree to grow 2 to 3 feet a year! They will grow up to 50 feet tall. Baxter would never tell you this story but I was there and I have been fortunate enough to see the success of the tree in the nursery, planted at area road side parks, up and down Texas highways, zoo’s and in my own back yard. Just think, Lost Maples can be in your own back yard! Boerne has a wonderful Main Street Maple Tree project and so does Austin. San Antonio City Public Service offers a $50 Green Shade Tree Rebate for planting a Big Tooth Maple in your yard. Several years ago, the Dallas Arboretum honored Baxter Adams for saving they Big Tooth Maple. Baxter is well known as the Father of the Texas Apple Industry but I believe that will not be his legacy. I believe it will be he saved the Big Tooth Maple Tree from extinction for the State of Texas. Several years ago, Bryan and Staci Hutzler purchased the Apple Store and the Love Creek Nursery. Their care and love of the apple trees and the Big Tooth Maple tree is a testament to their commitment of preserving the Texas Apple Industry and the legacy of the Texas Big Tooth Maple. They have lovingly taken the entire operation

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to a new level. Bryan, a graduate of Texas A & M, has focused on new and innovative methods to preserve this tree.

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The Big Tooth Maple tree is drought tolerant, has awesome color and is a Native of Texas. Studies of ancient pollen trace it back 20,000 years. Called “Lost Maples” because the few small populations that remain are all isolated and lost from other Maples. These trees are remnants of ancient hardwood forests, relics of the last Ice age 10,000 years ago. The localities in which they found refuge are canyons with perennial streams, as the Ouachita Mountains, Fort Hood, Lost Maples State Park, and the Guadalupe Mountains in West Texas. It is close kin to the northern Sugar Maple, but has smaller leaves, an adaptation it has made to living in our drier climate. The tree grows well in either acidic or alkaline soil, but is outstanding in its ability to thrive in the rocky, alkaline, caliche soils of the Texas Hill Country. The Big Tooth Maple is an excellent shade tree. A mature tree may grow up to 50 feet under favorable conditions and live to be hundreds of years old. When conditions are right, Big Tooth Maples put on a beautiful display of autumn foliage (late October/

November). Trees may be colored with brilliant hues of scarlet red, golden yellow, orange, and burgundy. Bryan and Staci have expanded the research on this tree and now have many sizes available for planting. They are available in pots, grow bags and even larger trees are now available with 5 inches and up in caliper. The Hutzlers have also continued growing Apples and offer seasonal pick your own apples, blackberries, figs and grapes. The Apple Store offers over 50 different items made from fresh apples including, jams, jellies, conserves, preserves, sauces, and syrup’s. Their Apple Pie was voted the Best in Texas by Texas Monthly Magazine as well as their SBJ Burger making the top 50 list of Best Burgers in Texas. You can ship great gift boxes of Apple Goodies all over the U.S.! Check out their web site at www. lovecreekorchards.com

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GREAT HILL COUNTRY PUMPKIN PATCH

ove the Fall Season? Nobody celebrates fall better than Love Creek Orchards, home of the Great Hill Country Pumpkin Patch. Love Creek Orchards; pioneers of the Texas Apple industry will be hosting the Great Hill Country Pumpkin Patch for 23rd year beginning October 7th. . The event will be open to the public every Saturday, Sunday and Monday in October and open for school tours each Thursday and Friday. Nestled in the heart of the Texas Hill Country in Medina on Highway 16 North, Love Creek has the perfect setting for a children’s festival. The Great Hill Country Pumpkin Patch will entertain and educate children at the same time! Where else can you enjoy hayrides, scarecrow building, pumpkin painting, pony rides, games and photo opportunities along with a petting zoo, apple orchard tours, cider making and processing apples on the apple line. “We want children to experience a day on the farm and fun, says owner Bryan Hutzler. But we want to make it a learning experience as well. What a great way to learn about agriculture and how apples are grown and harvested. Our event is all about the harvest and life on a farm.” We even have some fun events like pig races, storytelling and playing an instrument in the Great Hill Country Symphony. There is so much to do you will want to stay the whole day! Bring a picnic lunch or enjoy food from our vendors. Love Creek offers hot dogs, Hamburgers, apple pie, pumpkin pie, apple ice cream and of course, fresh squeezed apple cider. If you want pumpkins you will find the largest variety of pumpkins, gourds, hay bales, corn stalks and fall squashes and gourds available to buy. You can’t visit the Pumpkin Patch and not visit the Apple Store that is just up the road. Famous for their Apple Pies, voted Best Apple Pie in Texas by Texas Monthly Magazine. The Apple Store makes over 50 different items made from fresh apples. We get so many orders for Apple Pie, be sure to call in your order for a fresh apple pie the day before you come to the patch. It will be ready when you head home! The Great Hill Country Pumpkin Patch opens on October 7th and is open every Saturday, Sunday, and Monday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Admission is $6.00 per person and includes the free hayrides, petting zoo, pumpkin painting (you buy the pumpkin and we provide the paint), tours, and entertainment. There is an additional charge for pony rides and face painting and a barrel train ride. The Great Hill Country Pumpkin Patch is also open on Thursdays and Fridays for scheduled school tours. This year we will also host school tours on October 30th and 31st. The Pumpkin Patch will be also welcome the public on those two dates as well. For more information, call 800449-0882. For School tour information call 210-215-1995. Special birthday parties can also be accommodated. www.lovecreekorchards.com Bring your camera!

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Founded in 2005 after working for two and a half years as an assistant criminal district attorney. Mr. de la Paz’s office is focused on litigation. Mr. de la Paz has earned numerous awards including “Texas Rising Star” for four straight years given to the top 2.5 percent of attorneys in the State of Texas under 40 years of age. Brent de la Paz solves legal issues for individuals, established companies, entrepreneurs, CEOs, investors, and financial institutions. Clients partner with the de la Paz Law Office regarding transformative deals, regulatory matters, and complex litigation, often where strength meets the law.

What is the difference between an expunction and I get questions about cleaning up records especially after someone has finished college and a non-disclosure? There is a way to seal up certain records even is going through interviews. This is just a brief synopsis of how to clean up or expunge your record. if you have gone through deferred adjudication probation. A common example is a person who155 went through deferred probation for a possessing Can I clean my record with an expunction? Yes so long as the case was dismissed without marihuana. So long as everything was completed having to go through probation or if a jury has and the court found that the probation was complefound you not guilty. There are a variety of ways a ted satisfactorily the person is eligible for a petition case can be dismissed, lack of evidence or wrong for non-disclosure. What this does is seal up the records of the arrest and probation for employment filing are some of the common ones. If the case was dismissed there are filing fees purposes. involved in the expunction. If a jury has made a not There are a few exceptions for certain crimes but guilty finding the expunction is free within 30 days. most cases can be sealed. There is no waiting time An expunction is a request to destroy the for misdemeanor cases and certain waiting periods records related to the arrest. There is a notification for felony cases. that is sent to agencies and then an order to those If there are any questions please contact an agencies to destroy any records they have relating to the person and the particular arrest in question. attorney in your area or feel free to email or call. What if I was placed on probation? Is there any way to seal my records? This is a limited yes. When a person is placed on a type of probation called “deferred adjudication” and successfully completes the probation then a “sealing” is available.

( 210) 568-7499 | delapazlawrm.com North Central: 16414 San Pedro Ave. Ste. 960 San Antonio, TX78232 Byappointment only.

Downtown: 214 Dwyer Ave. Ste. 315, San Antonio, TX 78204

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MARK BOHANAN Chef, Owner Bohanan's Prime Steaks & Seafood The Bar at Bohanan's

clothing store, an upstairs space became available.

Bohanan grabbed the space, and he opened what is now known as one of San Antonio Cocktail Conference the most highly regarded restaurants in all of San Antonio. The lights of the Growing up, Mark Bohanan rarely ate Majestic Theater still light up downtown at restaurants. He grew up in the small Antonio, and people from across the town of Jourdanton, Texas, andMartin his dining J. San Phipps country, much farther than Jourdanton, experiences really only happened on now flock in their finest attire to that special trips to San Antonio when his same space where the clothing store mother Peggy brought him downtown to go clothes shopping at Frost Bros. and once stood to taste the recipes that were Joseph's -- or on extra special occasions the foundation of Bohanan's childhood. to take in a show at the Majestic Theatre. you stop in for the “best pasta in the state” according to Texas Monthly, be As a child, Bohanan learned to cook sure to catch a glimpse of San Antonio’s from his grandmother and mother, style icon, Andrew Goodman. who whipped up scratch-made meals for their families on the daily. Little did the family know that one day some of those recipes would end up on an award-winning menu. But although his passion and talent resided in the kitchen, Bohanan actually graduated with a degree in business from Texas A&M. Peggy's on the Green

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However his business degree merged with his love of cooking, and he began his career the Texas-based Luby's chain. Bohanan's passion for cooking quickly accelerated his career into a role as Executive Chef of the exclusive Artillery Club in Galveston. And as his reputation grew, Bohanan began to look for a space to open his own small restaurant. In the then-ghost town of downtown San Antonio, in the very building that was once Frost Bros. and Joseph's

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ANDREW GOODMAN Owner, Battalion, Feast, Rebelle, Haunt

Andrew Goodman is a style icon whose influence extends far beyond his home base of San Antonio. Chances are, you have already experienced his good taste. When you walk into any W Hotel, whether it be Paris or Hong Kong, the aromatic mood is set by Andrew. Before that, he create fragrances that were picked up by such notables as Anthropologie and Donna Karan. Andrew started as a partner in the furniture and design industry and moved on to a successful career in fragrances. Ever the entrepreneur, Andrew was on the move for the next business venture, and before long he sold his half of the fragrance business to his fragrance partner to break into the restaurant scene. This business savvy entrepreneur had always wanted the chance to design his own restaurant, but he was no chef. So he looked for the best, and his partnership with Chef Stefan Bowers has grown from one successful restaurant to a culinary empire with national brand recognition. But while there are plenty of restaurateurs who have great food, the thing that makes Andrew unforgettable is his style. At a live cooking demo in NYC for Food & Wine, Andrew played sous chef alongside Chef Stefan, and while the buzz in the kitchen was about the food, the comments from viewers were about Andrew’s attire. Restaurant patrons have been known to ask to see Andrew specifically, just to see what he’s wearing, because he’s known for his

bold use of colors and patterns. Even the waitstaff in his restaurants have customdesigned aprons. Andrew’s style is seen throughout the industrial glam decor at Battalion, and the rest of his upscale restaurant concepts. So the next time you stop in for the “best pasta in the state” according to Texas Monthly, be sure to catch a glimpse of San Antonio’s style icon, Andrew Goodman.

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Jennifer Larsen Business Advisor of the Month

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ennifer Larsen was born and raised in Rotan, Texas the younger of two children. Jennifer enjoyed her time growing up in her small town, excelling in sports and taking great advantage of available extracurricular activities. After graduation from high school, Jennifer attended West Texas A&M University, where she was a fouryear letter winner for the school’s tennis team. In addition, Jennifer co-hosted a radio show called “Soundtracks” on KWTS 91.1, as well as, interned as the assistant sports information director. After graduating from WTAMU with a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications, Jennifer relocated to the Hill Country, where she pursued a Masters in Secondary Education and began a 13-year teaching career. While working on her master’s degree, she met and married her husband, Scott, also a teacher. Jennifer and Scott have two beautiful daughters, both of who participate in allstar cheer at one of the nation’s top cheer gyms. Working with New York Life has allowed Jennifer to combine her talent for communication and her love of teaching into one career meant to serve the San Antonio area. She thrives on seeing her clients’ dreams turn into reality and is grateful to play a part in helping them secure their future, along with the future of their children. Her mission is to assist her clients in their financial strategies, including protection, wealth accumulation and retirement, by providing them with an education and peace of mind that can be passed on for generations. She is honored to call herself a Registered Representative for New York Life.

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Shanna Wilson Business Advisor of the Month

was born and raised in Port Lavaca, Texas as the youngest of two children. I played sports from an early age, and particularly grew to love basketball and fastpitch softball. If I was not on our family ranch spending time with my family, I was on the basketball court or softball field. After high school graduation in 2001, I moved to San Marcos to attend Southwest Texas State University. After graduating with a Bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies, I taught Pre-K for eight years. I loved spending my days enriching the minds of young children. In 2006, I met my husband, Travis, and in 2008 we got married. Two years later we welcomed a beautiful baby girl, Payton, and in 2014 we completed our family with our amazing son, Parker. I enjoy spending time with my family, and playing with my children. My children both enjoy playing baseball and softball, and I love watching and practicing with them, since it was one of my childhood passions. I also enjoy being outdoors, especially in the water. Schlitterbahn is a favorite summer activity. October 1st, I will be making the transition to the Associate Partner Program at New York Life. I will be recruiting and training agents to become among the best in the industry. Having the heart of a teacher, translates well into my career with New York Life. I enjoy teaching both my clients, and my agents. I believe that you never stop learning and growing. My goal is to become a person of value for everyone that I have the privilege of having in my life, both personally and professionally. My mission is to build a team of agents that will help their clients become financially aware, and educate those clients on how to create a financial plan that will bring peace of mind for their family and/or business, while helping to grow and protect assets, and creating a legacy for generations to come. By creating a team of agents helping clients, I can help more clients, and thus, bring value to more people.

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MARK BOHANAN Chef, Owner Bohanan's Prime Steaks & Seafood The Bar at Bohanan's Peggy's on the Green San Antonio Cocktail Conference Growing up, Mark Bohanan rarely ate at restaurants. He grew up in the small town of Jourdanton, Texas, and his dining experiences really only happened on special trips to San Antonio when his mother Peggy brought him downtown to go clothes shopping at Frost Bros. and Joseph's -- or on extra special occasions to take in a show at the Majestic Theatre.

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As a child, Bohanan learned to cook from his grandmother and mother, who whipped up scratch-made meals for their families on the daily. Little did the family know that one day some of those recipes would end up on an award-winning menu. But although his passion and talent resided in the kitchen, Bohanan actually graduated with a degree in business from Texas A&M. However his business degree merged with his love of cooking, and he began his career the Texas-based Luby's chain. Bohanan's passion for cooking quickly accelerated his career into a role as Executive Chef of the exclusive Artillery Club in Galveston. And as his reputation grew, Bohanan began to look for a space to open his own small restaurant. In the then-ghost town of downtown San Antonio, in the very building that was once Frost Bros. and Joseph's

clothing store, an upstairs space became available. Bohanan grabbed the space, and he opened what is now known as one of the most highly regarded restaurants in all of San Antonio. The lights of the Majestic Theater still light up downtown San Antonio, and people from across the country, much farther than Jourdanton, now flock in their finest attire to that same space where the clothing store once stood to taste the recipes that were the foundation of Bohanan's childhood. you stop in for the “best pasta in the state” according to Texas Monthly, be sure to catch a glimpse of San Antonio’s style icon, Andrew Goodman.

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STEPHANIE SCHELLER Author, Speaker & CEO

here’s something coming up that serious business owners will be moving heaven and earth to attend! What makes the GROW Retreat so special? First, it is HIGHLY screened! Every speaker & attendee is chosen by Stephanie herself and she only offers 100 seats to ensure the quality of the attendees, and the ability of the attendees to actually interact with the speakers! Second, the speakers are the real movers and shakers who have made stuff happen in their industries and will be speaking from a place of experience and providing counsel, not opinion! Third, the exercises she has planned and coordinated with the speakers will allow attendees to find solutions to challenges, and to pinpoint challenges they didn’t even know they had in their business, and create solutions on the spot! More importantly, because of the way she structures the events, the exercises & the masterminds, deals have come out of every single event she’s hosted (and she’s been hosting events monthly since 2015)! How’s that for some ROI? So - if you’re up for making deals, solving problems and networking with the top of the business world to make your OWN business life better? Make it happen! Apply at www.theGROWRetreat.com and, as Zig Ziglar said, I’ll see YOU at the top!

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Devin Castleton Limatus Bespoke

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Limatus Bespoke of San Antonio, Texas is changing the game of men's fashion. This mobile clothier is turning the traditional suit fitting process on its head. And instead of the man fitting into the suit, the suit is fitted around the man. Founder, Devin Castleton, was inspired by the suiting process he came across while living in Southeast Asia. There, he was welcomed with a drink, shown an array of fabrics, and measured for a truly custom fit. He felt like a king, with the confidence to do more and tackle anything that came his way. He wanted to make this experience accessible to all, and he set out to change the world of men's fashion by creating Limatus Bespoke. The Limatus Bespoke experience starts with a call or text to book your own personal appointment. A mobile tailor then meets you at your home or office where you are offered a drink, shown the highest quality fabrics, and have your measurements taken for a truly custom product. Your suit will be hand-crafted with meticulous detail and delivered in 2-3 weeks. It is truly a uniquely elevated suit buying experience. Devin believes that there is no 'one suit' any man should own, but that your own style and personality should be expressed through color and pattern. Limatus Bespoke inspires everyman to be his own Maverick of Style. www.limatusbespoke.com

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www.chocolazzo.com

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OUR LITTLE SECRET

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102 9TH ST, SATX 78215 210.340.9880 paramourbar.com