www.78209magazine.com
November 2014
78209 MAGAZINE
ALAMO HEIGHTS HIGH SCHOOL
HOMECOMING 2014
In Every Issue
THE RESTAURANT RESTAURANT GUIDE 78209
ANNE BALLANTYNE TERRELL HILLS MAYOR WITH A CAUSE LANGMORE PHOTOGRAPHY CELEBRATES 30 YEARS IN ALAMO HEIGHTS
( COVER )
CONTENTS
78209 MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2014
COVER PHOTO BY MILO LANGMORE,
ALAMO HEIGHTS HIGH SCHOOL
HOMECOMING 2014
08
Business Profile: Langmore Photography
SHOT AT CENTRAL MARKET ANNE BALLYNTYNE TERRELL HILLS MAYOR WITH A CAUSE
12
Profile: Terrell Hills Mayor Anne Ballantyne
18
Home: A Contemporary Vision Under The Oaks
LANGMORE PHOTOGRAPHY CELEBRATES 30 YEARS IN ALAMO HEIGHTS
22 AHISD School News 26
The Buzz
28
78209 Restaurant Guide
30
Wine & Dine: J. Alexander’s
32
Police Blotter
34
Vintage View
12
08 78209 MA GA ZIN E
22
November 2014
www.78209magazine.com
Publisher J. MICHAEL GAFFNEY
Copy Editor KATHRYN COCKE
Editorial Director BEVERLY PURCELL-GUERRA
Advertising Sales STEVEN COX, CINDY JENNINGS, MADELEINE JUSTICE
Graphic Design TAMARA HOOKS, MARIA JENICEK, LUIS PORTILLO Contributors ERNIE ALTGELT, JOHN BLOODSWORTH, LESLIE FOLEY, CASEY HOWELL, MEREDITH KAY, CAROLYN SELDON LAY, PATTI PAWLIK-PERALES, AL RENDON
Administration & Customer Service NANCY A. GAFFNEY Printing Shweiki Media, San Antonio, TX Advertising information: (210) 826-5375 email: info@78209magazine.com
78209 MAGAZINE is published monthly by PixelWorks Corporation (Publisher). Reproduction in any manner in whole or part is prohibited without the express written consent of the Publisher. Material contained herein does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher or its staff. 78209 MAGAZINE reserves the right to edit all materials for clarity and space and assumes no responsibility for accuracy, errors or omissions. 78209 MAGAZINE does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertisements or editorial, nor does the Publisher assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear. Articles and photographs are welcome and may be submitted to our offices to be used subject to the discretion and review of the Publisher. All real estate advertising is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968, which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an intention to make such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Printed in the U.S.A. Copyright ©2014 Pixelworks Corporation.
Published by
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6 | November 2014
78209 BUSINESS PROFILE
LANGMORE
PHOTOGRAPHY By CAROLYN SELDON LAY Photography by JOHN LANGMORE
Generations of families have been coming to Langmore Photography in Alamo Heights to create their family portraits for more than 30 years. Even though Dorothy Langmore passed away more than two years ago, the business she founded in 1984 thrives through her children, Will and Marie.
FAMILY BEGINNINGS Renowned photographers Bank and Dorothy Langmore graduated from Alamo Heights High School in 1953/54, respectively, and married in 1959. They lived in Dallas for several years, then returned to San Antonio in 1981 to open a pho8 | November 2014
tography studio near downtown. While Dorothy photographed weddings and portraits, Bank became successful photographing the American West and the cowboy in particular. His 1975 book, The Cowboy, is still considered one of the best on the subject. In 1984 Dorothy opened her own studio in the current location on Broadway, a few doors from Paloma Blanca, and built her business photographing weddings, families and her forte, portraits of women.
THE BUSINESS GREW Will Langmore began helping his mother in the studio while he was a student at UTSA,
CELEBRATES 30 YEARS
OF TRADITION Above: Marie Langmore behind the lens. Right: John Langmore
Left: Marie and Will Langmore at their family studio which opened in 1984 Smaller pictures: Dorothy and Bank Langmore.
Below: Will Langmore in their studio
and he soon became an integral part of her business, while building his own clientele. The Langmores’ second son, John, graduated from Alamo Heights in 1981. Although he is not part of the family business, his career as a corporate attorney is taking a backseat to his growing success as a world cultures photographer. It seems John is following his father's footsteps as he is currently photographing the American West and the lore of the cowboy. John appreciates having his two talented siblings help him select which of his photographs to include in his projects. A small sampling of John's work appears in this article.
The Langmores’ third child, Marie, graduated from Heights in 1985. After she earned her degree from Texas A&M, she discovered how much she enjoyed photographing people and decided to forgo a teaching career to join her mother and brother. Now she and Will are co-owners of the business.
IN WITH THE NEW There is a new age of portrait photography developing as the next generation has taken over at Langmore Photography. The transition to digital took place more than a decade ago, and Will says, “The possibilities are so much more flexible through digital
equipment.” Will and Marie stay on the cutting edge of photo and printing technology using computers and printers that produce the finest in small to very large prints. This is a time of year for celebrating family and updating family portraits, and it can be a busy time for the Langmores. There is a recognizable continuity in the portraiture from one generation to the next, even though this generation of Langmores uses twentyfirst century equipment and more relaxed settings. Their studio still has a few of their mom's backdrops for portraits, including a large blue painted antique Spanish mission door and a Victorian chaise longue. They are www.78209magazine.com | 9
near a large window where the light streams in, allowing Will and Marie to produce natural light portraits. What Langmore Photography offers are works of art. Dorothy had a style that was often compared to impressionist paintings — a softness, which Will and Marie still use today among other techniques, bringing a fresh and creative approach.
DOUBLE EXPOSURE Will and Marie often work as a team. They have complementary talents and work well together. There is a friendly sibling dynamic that plays out during these sessions, such as shooting the same scene from different perspectives. Their collective creativity is evident in the results. Will says, “Something special occurs during a photo session. It's very much like an athlete getting in ' the zone.’ Will and Marie acknowledge there is a certain point when something clicks. It happens when the people they are photographing relax and there is a gleam in their eyes, a dimple appears, a glance, an interaction between two children, or a husband and wife share a look. That's when a 'moment' is discovered. Will and Marie both have sensitive yet light-hearted traits which put even the most camera- shy people at ease, making it fun to have their picture taken. They avoid a posed look while keeping the groups contained for that perfect scene.
ARTISTIC PURSUITS The Langmore Photography business continues to evolve. It can be a challenge for these two artists to find time for their individual projects. Will and Marie's interests grow and progress as their passions change with each inspiration. Will shows his love for San Antonio by exhibiting a refined ability to tell a deeper story through his photography. He is currently involved in a project which presents the West Side community with all of its scarcity and vitality. Another of Will's ongoing projects is photographing identical twins. He is interested in capturing the similarities and differences of two alike individuals through the camera lens. The culmination of the first year was an exhibit featuring 30 images. In 2010 Marie began working with Haven for Hope on a project documenting Haven's incredible impact transforming the lives of those suffering from homelessness. The project allowed Marie to explore an entirely different aspect of photography while still drawing from her many years spent photographing people. Marie's current project, Women and their Dogs, is being published this month. It seems Marie is following in her mother's path. Dorothy was awarded for her photographic series, Women of Distinction. The Langmores look forward to presenting a compilation of their work to include Bank, Dorothy, Will, John, Marie and Will's son, Milo. Yes, the Langmore legacy continues. Milo, who attends Alamo Heights Junior School, has already won an award for a photograph he took using his dad's camera and says he “wants to be a cowboy and a photographer—like grandpa”.The apple Will’s son Milo with a camera. doesn't fall far from the tree. 10 | November 2014
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12 | September 2014
78209 PROFIL E
TERRELL HILLS’ MAYOR
ANNE BALLANTYNE
A LIFETIME OF INVOLVEMENT By ERNIE ALTGELT Photography by CASEY HOWELL
To say that Anne Ballantyne — Terrell Hills’ long-term resident, proponent, politician, parent, grandparent and “just good neighbor” — has spent a productive lifetime simply being involved is indisputably an understatement. One look at her selfless contributions over the past 35-plus years, not only on behalf of her beloved city but to various area institutions, organizations, charities and other undertakings, illustrates the degree of generosity inherent within this very gifted and giving individual. In typical Ballantyne fashion, Anne has once again assumed a new role and new responsibilities dedicated solely to the benefit of others, that of mayor of Terrell Hills – a nonpaid position that she, as evidenced by her many past accomplishments, is perfectly suited to assume. You go, girl! After her birth in downtown San Antonio at the venerable Nix Hospital, it was only a few hours later that she (accompanied by her proud parents) came home to Terrell Hills. Seemingly, she’s been there ever since. As a 60-year resident of the Hills, she has lived, at various times, at five different neighborhood addresses. When asked about this propensity for “staying put,” Anne happily volunteers, “I guess you might say I’ve got Terrell Hills in my blood. Moving away would be too weird.” She and her husband, Steve, have been in their current house for the past 31 years. Her brother, Glenn, lives around the corner. Two of her three kids (and her first grandchild) live in the neighborhood, with the third nearby, in Terrell Heights. All attended Alamo Heights schools. Yep, this family is pretty well anchored in TH! As a young woman and new mother, Anne
ANNE’S TAKE ON TERRELL HILLS AND 78209
Anne Ballantyne is ’09 to the core. When asked what made this area
special, her response is simple:
“Having walked the streets of Ter-
rell Hills for many decades, I think our city and 78209 are unique be-
cause of the residents. Everyone
takes pride in their families and
their homes, and they also care
about their neighbors. It’s this feel-
ing of closeness, of being a part of something good.”
For the rest of us living in the
‘hood, Anne is certainly a big part of that “something good.” Thank
you, Anne, for all you do!
pictured below: Columbus Stilts, city manager Gregg Whitlock, police chief Billy Knupp, fire chief Anne and Steve Ballantyne
temporarily joined the family oil business. As she admits, however, “It was fun, and the experience was great, but I just needed more.” With a thirst for “joining in” and helping, she found volunteerism fulfilled that need. While successfully handling the many duties of raising a growing family of three active youngsters (Patrick, Katy and Brian), Anne somehow found the time and energy to give elsewhere – lots of elsewheres! An overview of her commitments past and present is a testament to her abilities and desire to help. A veteran member of the Junior League of San Antonio, Anne has held multiple board positions, including that of treasurer, where a sharp mind and attention to detail were key. The Battle of Flowers organization has benefited from her participation, where again she served as treasurer and then later as parade chair and president. And with her own children as inspiration, she was an elected member of the Alamo Heights School Board, serving for nine years. More recently, as a breast cancer survivor, Anne was voted president of the Susan G. Komen San Antonio organization. She and Steve co-chaired the 2010 Race for the Cure. And if that weren’t enough, she is currently on the board of the Military and Civilian Club, an organization that fosters patriotism and helps integrate the armed services into civilian communities. But the mayor of Terrell Hills too? You bet. After her long stint on the school board, she ran and was elected to a seat on the Terrell
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Anne pictured with fire chief Billy Knupp
14 | Noveember 2014
Hills City Council. That was in 2002. Prior to that, she had also served the previous council and the citizenry with positions on the city’s Board of Adjustments and the Planning and Zoning Commission. As she recalls, “These were wonderful learning experiences that prepared me well for my seat on the council and ultimately allowed me to positively impact the direction our municipality was taking. Then, getting on the actual council expanded that role.” When the former mayor decided not to run again this year, Anne, urged on by many of her friends and neighbors, decided to throw her hat into the ring. Filled with gratitude and excitement after a competitive race with another highly qualified councilwoman, Anne proved victorious and began her tenure as the new city head. Since assuming office, she finds her days are even fuller. Working with a talented and focused professional staff, including the city manager, police chief and other departmental heads, Mayor Ballantyne tackles the ongoing challenges that confront any city leader. Backed by this supportive and competent staff as well as the city council, Anne acts as any CEO would — guiding, directing, prioritizing. And she’s very good at it. When queried about some of her quality-of-life-related goals beyond the overriding responsibilities of maintaining streets, getting the garbage collected and providing ample fire and police protection, she responds, “ My other objectives involve working to beautify the city by improving our recycling efforts, enhancing our common green spaces and reviewing our governmental ordinances to help eliminate unsightly and dangerous nuisances.” But perhaps what people appreciate most about Anne in any of her political and nonpolitical endeavors is her accessibility and willingness to listen and work with all those involved. Somehow, she makes it look easy and natural when responding to a constituency that’s looking for help – whether large in scope or very immediate. These traits and abilities serve her well as she continues to serve so many others. It’s no wonder she keeps getting called upon again and again. What is wonderful is that she keeps saying, “Yes, I’ll do it.”
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www.youreinvitedsa.com www.78209magazine.com | 17
78209
H OM E
VISION under the OAKS By JOHN BLOODSWORTH | Photography by AL RENDON
18 |November 2014
WORLD WAR II-ERA HOUSE GETS CONTEMPORARY UPDATE
Purchasing their home nine years ago, on a quiet street lined with mature trees, the young couple soon settled in. Now with a son entering Cambridge Elementary School as a first-year Spanish Immersion student and an active 3-year old, the family of four finds the neighborhood irresistible. “It’s a great neighborhood, and we love our neighbors,” says the active mother. “There are so many young children on our block that our sons can grow up with, we really don’t want to ever move.” At first, the small post-WWII-era tract home was not the perfect place for a growing family. But with contemporary vision and a
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keen understanding of the active family’s lifestyle, architect Tobin Smith’s transformation was the right redo for both the neighborhood and the family. “The goal was to sensitively add to the existing structure without overwhelming the scale of the neighborhood,” says Smith. The mature live oaks on the property served as inspiration for the front porch roof structure, a man-made arbor that protects dwellers from the Texas sun and tucks neatly under the oak canopy. Entering a receiving gallery from the front porch, friends and family are sometimes greeted by two rambunctious boys racing about on their scooters and pedal cars. In addition to perfect play space, the room serves as a gallery for the couple’s growing contemporary art collection. A new study/library — it does double duty as guest suite when pocket doors are closed — includes powder room, guest room, guest bath and laundry room. Original plans called for wooden floors in the study, but as the slab was poured, small twigs and leaves from the oak trees fell on the surface and left impressions in the cement. The clients loved the blemishes in the smooth texture and the fact that the oaks provide protection for their home. “We left the floors alone,” says Smith. “Tobin knew to make our home kid friendly,” says the mother of two. When the couple moved into the neighborhood, “we were probably the youngest family on the block.” Soon, new neighbors began to move in with young children of their own. There are no less than 10 neighbors that the couple can call upon at any time to watch the boys while they run errands or take one of the boys to soccer, school or other appointments. And their home has become a kid zone for neighbors’ children, as well. Blocks of Lueders limestone — the same used for front porch columns — form a retaining wall at the back of the property, allowing the space to be flattened into a grassy area for the couple’s two sons and their playmates. A rear-access carport doubles as a birthday pavilion and party space. Neighbors organize block parties twice a year, and impromptu gatherings and weekend pop-up parties are always anticipated. On Howdy Night, all of the neighbors gathered at the end of the block with children in tow. The couple walked to the parade, chatting with fast-made friends. Laughing and enjoying the gleeful anticipation of their children as the sounds of the Alamo Heights band reverberated on the evening’s breeze, the group pleasantly strolled the tree-shaded streets of the place they call home. 20 |November 2014
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78209
Alamo Heights
INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT
MULES HOMECOMING Photography By Mark Humphries
Homecoming is the annual tradition in which alumni return to reminisce about their school days, as soon-to-be-graduates and fellow students enjoy the festivities of football, half-time shows, mums, the crowning of the court and the annual dance. In Alamo Heights, it is tradition to kick- off the weeklong celebration with the Howdy Parade. The parade begins at historic Cambridge Elementary and winds its way north on Broadway, ending just before Alamo Heights High School. Parade-goers line the streets to enjoy a variety of parade entries like the AHHS band, cheerleaders, Spurs drill team, school clubs and organizations, sports teams and more. Each of the Alamo Heights ISD campuses is represented, and students from kindergarten to 12th grade march the route. 22 |November 2014
The evening continues with the Howdy Night Carnival and the lighting of the AH at AHHS and Harry B. Orem Stadium. Students are introduced to the varsity football team, as they enjoy a performance by the AHHS band and Spurs dance team. The AHHS cheerleaders lead the students, alumni and community in song, as both young and old sing along to the alma mater and fight song. The evening culminates in the lighting of the AH, in which seniors share a special moment together, gathered around the burning AH, to remember and celebrate their high school years.
24 | November 2014
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78209 TH E
BU ZZ
NOV 2014
The Buzz ( By LESLIE FOLEY )
Readying yourself for that stuffed turkey? With the holidays upon us, there are numerous outings to attend, travel plans to make, foods to prepare, presents to buy, family to visit and the list goes on. One can get lost in all this scurrying around. Make time for a few escapes from the hustle and bustle and hectic times of the impending holidays.
PARADES, PARTIES AND PINE NEEDLES CELEBRATIONS ARE IN ORDER!
Alamo Heights Chamber presents its 37th annual Holiday Parade, sponsored by H-E-B and other local establishments, on Saturday, Nov. 22, at 5:30 p.m. Participants will include the Shriners, baton twirlers, Magik Theatre, bikers, Texas Corvette Club, dog walkers, Santa’s Rolling Reindeer and colorful floats with loads of holiday lights that will dazzle the crowds. D’Anthony Salon, a repeat winner, is always a crowd pleaser and judge’s favorite among the 40 entries. Check Alamoheightschamber.org for information on the parade route and wrap-up party at the Stewart Center, where awards will be presented, along with entertainment and refreshments for all. After the parade, stick around for the 28th annual Light the Way, “A Cardinals Christmas,” at 7:30 p.m. Behold, the University of the Incarnate Word will be transformed into a blaze of holiday lights. This free celebration will include musical and dance performances by students from the University. End the evening with a cup of hot cocoa following the beautiful candle-lit procession.
GIVING THANKS WITH COCKTAILS AND DINNER PAIRING, GUSTOLOGY™ STYLE
Focus on the overall experience of entertaining by giving guests an interactive and social environment. Learn about the cocktails and at the same time mix and shake amongst new friends. The chef will tell how the plates are prepared to complement each individual cocktail. Guests will walk away with cocktail recipes and a parting gift. The price is $60 for three cocktails paired with three dishes, and seating is limited. Nov. 8, 7 p.m. Visit www.Gustologist.com for more details.
CHRISTMAS TREE LOT TO OPEN
Texas’ oldest and largest Christmas tree lot opens Nov. 28 at 10 a.m. The Alamo Heights Optimist Club Tree Lot at 200 Austin Highway (the same location since 1954) offers the perfect USDA Grade 1 noble firs from Oregon, the best tree you can purchase. Even better, 100 percent of the money raised on this tree lot will support local charities in and around our city. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. till all the trees find a happy home. There’s nothing like the smell of a fresh Christmas tree to get you in the mood for the holidays!
MARISOL DELUNA FASHION EVENT
Did you receive a formal invitation for an event on Nov. 14? Read on. New York fashion designer Marisol Deluna, who’s a San Antonio native and a graduate of Alamo Heights High School, will mark her 25th anniversary in the fashion industry with a runway show and cocktail party. Hosted by the Marisol Deluna Foundation and partners, the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and the mayor’s office, the black-tie optional event on Friday, Nov. 14, at the McNay benefits the launch of the Marisol Deluna Foundation Fashion Initiative (MDFFI) to support the mentoring of Texas students and young aspiring designers interested in fashion and the design arts. The Marisol Deluna Foundation’s Fashion Initiative is designed to support the next generation of fashion designers and expand Texas garment manufacturing. Tickets are $100 per person and may be purchased through the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. The evening soiree includes cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and a fashion show. Even if your invitation was lost in the mail, you’re still invited.
ANNUAL MCNAY PATRON PARTY
The annual Patron Party for the McNay, on Thursday, Nov. 20, honors McNay patrons for their continued support. This year’s celebration marks the 30th anniversary of the Tobin Wing of the McNay, where the spectacular Tobin Collection of Theatre Arts is exhibited. Patrons will be treated to a special evening at the new Tobin Center. Also at the McNay: Free College Night, Friday, Nov. 21, 8-11 p.m. What do you get when you mix college friends with art, live music, free food and more? Attend the McNay Mixer and find out! www.78209magazine.com | 27
T he
T N A R U A T S RE Guide
AMERICAN
20NINE 255 E. Basse, #940 798-9463 410 DINER 8315 Broadway 822-6246
ANNE MARIES’S BISTRO 555 Funston Place 826-5800 BIRD BAKERY 5912 Broadway 804-2473 BOARDWALK BISTRO 4011 Broadway 824-0100 BROADWAY 50/50 5050 Broadway 826-0069 CAPPY’S 5011 Broadway 828-9669 CAPPYCCINO’S BISTRO 5003 Broadway 828-6860 CORNER BAKERY CAFE 255 E. Basse #100 441-4553 EARL ABEL’S 2101 Austin Highway, #175 822-3358 EZ’S BRICK OVEN & GRILL 255 E. Basse 804-1199 6498 N. New Braunfels 828-1111 GOOD TIME CHARLIE’S 2922 Broadway 828-5392 J. ALEXANDER’S 255 E. Basse, #1300 824-0275 JIM’S RESTAURANT 4108 Broadway 828-5120 8427 Broadway 826-7001 MAGIC TIME MACHINE 902 N.E. Loop 410 828-1470 MAMA'S CAFE 2442 Nacogdoches 826-8303 NOSH 1133 Austin Highway 826-6674
28 | November 2014
RAFFLES RESTAURANT & BAR 1039 N.E. Loop 410 826-7118 SILO ELEVATED CUISINE 1133 Austin Highway 824-8686 STONE WERKS Broadway at Basse 823-3508 TWIN SISTERS BAKERY AND CAFE 6322 N. New Braunfels 822-0761 ZEDRIC’S 5231 Broadway 824-6000
ASIAN
HSIU YU 8338 Broadway 828-2273 KOI KAWA 4051 Broadway 805-8111 MON THAI BISTRO 4901 Broadway 822-3253 OSAKA JAPANESE STEAK AND SUSHI 4902 Broadway 822-0300 P. F. CHANG’S 255 E. Basse 507-1000 SUSHI ZUSHI 999 E. Basse 826-8500 SNOW’S VIETNAM 3244 Broadway 892-7461 TONG’S THAI 1146 Austin Highway 829-7345
BARBECUE BUN ‘N’ BARREL 1150 Austin Highway 828-2829
THE BARBEQUE STATION 610 N.E. LOOP 410 691-3332 THE SMOKE SHACK 3714 Broadway 829-8448
EUROPEAN
CRUMPETS 3920 Harry Wurzbach 821-5454
FREDERICK’S 7701 Broadway 828-9050
EL MACHITO 7300 Jones Maltsberger 314-3971
HOFBRAU & BEER GARDEN 7310 Jones Maltsberger 290-8066
LA FONDA 8633 Crownhill Blvd. 824-4231
LA MADELEINE 4820 Broadway 829-7291
PALOMA BLANCA 5800 Broadway 822-6151
LION & ROSE ENGLISH PUB 5148 Broadway 822-7673
PICANTE GRILL 3810 Broadway 822-3797
GREEK
PAPOULI’S GRILL 255 E. Basse, #384 804-1118
HAMBURGERS CHEESY JANE’S 4200 Broadway 826-0800
CHESTER’S HAMBURGERS 1006 N.E. Loop 410 805-8600 FIVE GUYS BURGERS 260 E. Basse, #107 822-6200 LONGHORN CAFE 1003 Rittiman at Harry Wurzbach 822-7272 ORDER UP 999 E. Basse 824-9600
ITALIAN
CERRONI’S PURPLE GARLIC 1017 Austin Highway 822-2300 PAESANOS 555 E. Basse 828-5191 PIATTI 255 E. Basse 832-0300 SORRENTO 5146 Broadway 824-0055 TRE TRATTORIA 4003 Broadway 805-0333
MEXICAN/LATIN ADELANTE 21 Brees Blvd. 822-7681
BETO’S 8142 Broadway 930-9393
SOLUNA COCINA MEXICANA 7959 Broadway 930-8070 TACO GARAGE 8403 Broadway 826-4405 TOMATILLOS CANTINA 3210 Broadway 824-3005 URBAN TACO 290 E. Basse, #105 332-5149
PIZZA
BRAZA BRAVA 7959 Broadway 320-2100 CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN 255 E. Basse 424-2014 FLORIO’S PIZZA 7701 Broadway 805-8646 GRIMALDI’S PIZZA 330 E. Basse, #101 832-8288 VOLARE GOURMET PIZZA 5054 Broadway 828-3354
SOUTHWESTERN CANYON CAFE 255 E. Basse 225-0722
STEAKS
THE BARN DOOR 8400 N. New Braunfels 824-0116 FLEMING’S STEAKHOUSE 255 E. Basse 824-9463 RUTH'S CHRIS 7720 Jones Maltsberger 821-5051
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78209
Wine Dine ( By MEREDITH KAY )
J. ALEXANDER’S CAPITALIZING ON CONSISTENCY
Culinary consistency is probably the most important factor with regard to whether a restaurant will stand the test of time. Many restaurants are eager to capitalize on the latest trends but never manage to put together a reliable menu that appeals to everyone. J. Alexander’s, an anchor restaurant located in The Quarry since the development of the shopping center, has not only withstood the changing culinary climate in San Antonio, but they continue to thrive in one of the most visible locations in the 78209 area. With a diverse menu that spans the globe, a classy atmosphere and decor with rich dark wood accents, cozy booths and an open kitchen, J. Alexander’s offers an en-
By MEREDITH KAY
30 | November 2014
255 East Basse Rd #1300 San Antonio, TX 78209 Located in the Quarry Shopping Center (210) 824-0275
J. ALEXANDER’S
jalexanders.com
ATMOSPHERE Serene NOISE LEVEL Quiet
MUST-TRY DISH The Slow-Roasted Prime Rib
joyable dining experience for both lunch and dinner. It is perfect for a power lunch, and it also offers an intimate setting for a date or special occasion. Service is usually on par, and you’ll find that management is actively visible, checking on diners with a warm smile and friendly greeting. The restaurant features a solid menu offering everything from gourmet burgers to specialty salads, tacos, seafood and steaks. The flavors of J. Alexander’s travel the world with dishes like Steak Maui, Carolina Crab Cakes and Scottish Salmon. You will also find a select menu of items offered on a seasonal basis, and the restaurant is eager to accommodate any special request. The salads at J. Alexander’s aren’t for the “I’ll just have a salad” crowd either. They are huge and hearty, with fresh ingredients and delicious housemade dressings. One of my favorites is the Cypress Salad. It features chopped crispy chicken tenders, bacon, pecans, avocado, tomatoes, cheese and croutons. I like to switch out the usual ranch dressing for the tangy honey mustard dressing, and when you pair the salad with a side order of their shoestring french fries, you’ve got a great lunch to get you through the rest of the workday. For starters, I usually order their Smoked Salmon Dip with crispy baguette toasts. It is one of my favorite appetizers. On a recent visit, however, I ventured to try the deviled eggs with sugar-cured bacon and homemade pickle relish. The eggs were piled high with sweet and savory bacon bits sprinkled atop each yellow peak. They were delicious, and there were plenty to share. I’d definitely order them again. The restaurant serves lunch and dinner every day and accepts reservations as well as walk-ins. From starters to finish, J. Alexander’s is a solid restaurant with something to satisfy any palate. From their very popular Slow-Roasted Prime Rib to the spicy Rattlesnake Pasta, along with outstanding desserts and an impressive cocktail list, you will find a way to please even the pickiest friend or co-worker at J. Alexander’s.
78209 M AG A Z I N E
NOW AVAILABLE AT YOUR LOCAL
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POLICE BLOTTER POLICE BLOTTER 78209
ALAMO HEIGHTS POLICE DEPARTMENT - CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS DIVISION
ALAMO HEIGHTS POLICE DEPARTMENT CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS DIVISION
6116 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 822-2164 FAX (210) 822-7111
10/06/14 6500 blk Broadway PUBLIC INTOXICATION Officers responded to the 6500 blk. Broadway for a report of an intoxicated person. Prior to their arrival residents in the 100 blk. Lamont and 100 blk. Evans reported a male subject in their backyards. Responding officers located a male subject hiding under a parked car in the 100 blk. Evans and detained him for further investigation. Investigation determined the subject was very intoxicated and presented a danger to himself or others. The subject’s uncooperative disposition led officers to incarcerate the male subject. Later that evening an officer on patrol located the male subject’s vehicle parked in a parking lot in the 6500 blk. Broadway. The vehicle had damage to both right side wheels and rims and other minor damages common with striking an object. 10/06/14 400 blk Austin Hwy DWI Officers investigating a vehicle vs. pole accident observed the driver’s license was revoked and he was impaired. During the investigation the driver admitted to being under the influence of synthetic marijuana. The subject was transported to the Magistrate’s Office for a blood specimen. 10/07/14 5000 blk Broadway ALCOHOL VIOLATION The driver of a vehicle stopped for speeding was found not to have a valid driver’s license. During a pre-impoundment inventory officers discovered an open container of alcohol that was cold to the touch. The driver received several citations, and the vehicle was impounded. 10/09/14 200 blk E Fair Oaks VEHICLE BURGLARY During the early morning hours a resident went to check a strange noise. The resident discovered someone had unlawfully entered his locked vehicle by breaking out a side
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window to gain access to a wallet left in open view. 10/10/14 6000 blk Broadway WANTED PERSON The driver of a vehicle stopped for a traffic violation was found to have an active warrant issued by Bexar County for theft by check. The driver was transported to the Magistrate’s Office for disposition. 10/11/14 Broadway (various) CRIMINAL MISCHIEF Eight (8) businesses along Broadway from the south city limits to the 6900 block had windows damaged by projectiles shot from a passing vehicle. This incident began on Broadway near the downtown area, where numerous windows were broken on business facing Broadway as well as a VIA bus that was damaged while traveling down Broadway. THEFT 10/12/14 200 blk Circle A child’s tricycle left unsecured in an open carport was stolen sometime during the week. 10/12/14 400 blk Argyle THEFT Lawn equipment left unsecured in an open trailer parked on the street was stolen while workers were busy in another area of the yard not allowing them view of the trailer. 10/12/14 200 blk Ashcroft NARCOTICS VIOLATION The driver of a vehicle stopped for a traffic violation was found to have a suspended driver’s license. A pre-impoundment inventory of the vehicle discovered multiple baggies, of marijuana, hydrocodone and xanex along with a notebook containing records of illegal narcotics transactions. The driver was booked into jail.
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Photo courtesy Alamo Heights Independent School District
VINTAGE VIEW
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Alamo Heights students in an early morning physical education class.