San Antonio Woman - May/June 2019

Trudy Madan

FROM INDIA TO AMERICA: STRONG WORK ETHIC PREVAILS

IN THIS ISSUE

MAY/JUNE 2019

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profile

feature story

home

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women in law

Trudy Madan’s successful career

Four extraordinary San Antonio

A country showplace provides

These women litigators

can be attributed to her confidence,

moms demonstrate that love is

the perfect opportunity for

share what it’s like to advocate

optimism and strong work ethic.

what truly makes a family

relaxing and entertaining.

for their clients.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

MAY/JUNE 2019

lifestyle

business

At Home Extra Discover the varying

Spotlight on Dr.Patricia Lew, Owner and

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purposes of window treatments.

licensed acupuncturist at Alamo Heights

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Wellness.

Fashion Winning businesswomen share

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their style secrets.

Women on the Move

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Beauty Mayra Farret , one of the stars

Business Calendar

from “Texicanas” reveals her favorite skincare and makeup products.

74 Active Living Finding ways to pass down special memories and mementos to

stories

your children.

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85

Health Learn the signs of a stroke and

Hill Country Woman Three women from

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how to react if you’ve had one.

the New Braunfels area have found success in helping others.

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Mommy Matters The daily stressors in life are big contributors to anxiety in women.

Role Model Jessica Adams is living out her childhood dream as a zookeeper.

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success to his hometown San Antonio as it becomes a leading force in the tech industry.

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Hill Country Eats

Mommy Matters Extra One mother recognizes how her social drinking became

Guy to Know Graham Weston brings

food 106 Dining Eastside Diner provides Southern

drinking to cope.

Comfort food.

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Arts & Entertainment Calendar

TRENDING

SA Eats

ESPADRILLES

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Espadrille wedges are the everywhere shoes you need this summer.

Timeless, versatile, comfortable, and chic — espadrilles can be dressed up or down.

Find some with rubbertextured soles and you can practically run in these babies. We love this pair of J.Crew wedges available locally.

SCANDINAVIAN Simple, sophisticated, modern furniture that focuses on functionality — Scandinavian style is on trend. Striking the perfect balance between minimalism and over-cluttered, Scandi style results in a clean, calm space that is inviting.

Check out this bed from Copenhagen.

CONTRIBUTORS

MEREDITH KAY Writer Half Texan on her mama’s side, Meredith grew up in Southern California and graduated from Pepperdine University, with a degree in Advertising.

This allowed her to use words creatively, and to find her voice as a writer. She is a food enthusiast, and will eat anything but broccoli. Meredith has an incurable case of wanderlust, and she loves to cook, travel and eat.

She spends her days raising two kids, and rescuing as many dogs as possible. She wanders the streets of San Antonio, and the rest of the world when she can, searching for great restaurants, tasty cocktails and interesting people.

Al Rendon Photographer Al Rendon photographs the homes seen in San Antonio Woman. “People choose their environment and the decor in a room to express their personality. My photographs use light to bring a home’s personality to life.

When I raise the camera and focus on a room’s view, I am composing to express its owners’ personality in the best light.” He has had more than a dozen major solo exhibits, and his work is in such permanent collections as the National Portrait Gallery of the Smithsonian Institution and the National Museum of Mexican Art in Chicago.

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EDITOR’S LETTER

MAY/JUNE 2019

Susan Thornton

SAN ANTONIO WOMAN EDITOR

As I look back on my first year as editor of San Antonio Woman magazine I am in awe of the incredible women I have met from all walks of life; some have successful careers, are entrepreneurs, some give all of their time and talents to enrich Photography by Janet Rogers

the lives of others and some stay at home moms in the midst of raising their precious families.

Nonetheless, they are all San Antonio Women who are making an impact.

I was able to visit with our cover girl, Trudy Madan at a recent photo shoot. She is lovely! As a very young girl, her family went from “riches to rags” and she watched as her mother worked two and three jobs to support them. This sparked a motivation in Trudy that has driven her to build a company that continually appears on the Inc 500/5000 Magazine list of fastest growing companies.

Our feature story is about four moms with very atypical families. I hope you enjoy reading their stories. The love overflows in their homes. Although there are challenges they are far outweighed by the blessings and joy. The pictures speak a thousand words!

Since 1949, May has been Mental Health Awareness Month in the United States. Did you know that approximately 1 in 5 adults in America experience mental illness? If you or someone you know is experiencing mental illness, there is help available. In this issue of our Dossier, you'll find some valuable resources.

As you go through your summer, remember that we have many enjoyable attractions in San Antonio that bring people from all over the world. I hope you’ll take advantage of all of the museums, theatres, missions and so many family-friendly destinations right here in our backyard.

EDIToR Susan Thornton CoPy EDIToR Gabrielle Hernandez FASHIoN & BEAuTy EDIToR Aquila Mendez-Valdez GRAPHIC DESIGN Maria Jenicek oNLINE MEDIA Tuesday Shaw, Michelle Miles MEDIA CooRDINAToR Cynthia Cunningham CoNTRIBuTING WRITERS Robyn Barnes, Christie Cuthbert, Gabrielle Hernandez, Meredith Kay, Berit Mason, Pamela Miller, Jennifer O’Neill, Dawn Robinette, Amity Worrel PHoToGRAPHy Beth Coyle, Al Rendon, Jason Roberts, Janet Rogers, David Teran BuSINESS DEVELoPMENT & MARKETING Cindy Jennings, Patricia McGrath ADMINISTRATIoN & CuSToMER SERVICE Nancy A. Gaffney INTERN Ana Gibbs PRINTING Shweiki Media, San Antonio, Texas EDIToR EMERITuS Beverly Purcell-Guerra ADVERTISING INFoRMATIoN call (210) 826-5375 email: info@sawoman.com PuBLISHED By

Take some time for you this summer,

8603 Botts Lane San Antonio, TX 78217 210-826-5375 pixelworksmedia.com

Susan Thornton, Editor susan@sawoman.com

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PuBLISHER J. Michael Gaffney

San Antonio Woman is published bimonthly 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. San Antonio Woman reserves the right to edit all materials for clarity and space and assumes no responsibility for accuracy, errors or omissions. San Antonio Woman 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.

WHAT’S NEW

FREE NIGHT AT THE ZOO GIVES PATIENTS AND FAMILIES A MUCH-NEEDED NIGHT WILD FUN On April 5th, San Antonio Zoo® hosted its second successful Dream Night presented by H-E-B, a VIP event for children with special medical needs. Attended by nearly 800 current and former Methodist Children’s Hospital, University Health System, and Children's Rehabilitation Institute of TeletonUSA (CRIT) patients and their families, the event provided a unique opportunity to enjoy the zoo as a VIP without concern for social stigma or issues related to accessibility.

“We are honored to be able to open our gates and provide a zoo experience like none other in an intimate setting where these families can be at the zoo stress free,” said Tim Morrow, San Antonio Zoo CEO/Executive Director. “The wonder and excitement these young patients had is one that I know our zoo crew cherishes and I hope that we helped create some wonderful memories,” said Morrow.

SAINT MARY’S HALL IS “A BUZZ” WITH EXCITEMENT Saint Mary's Hall (SMH) AP Biology students (under the expert direction of Upper School Science Teacher Dr. Jamie Holbrook) have started a beekeeping project using Italian bees.

The topics students will explore include honeybees' environmental impact, their life cycle and development, communication, and the medicinal uses of hive products.

The students' first day of hands-on training took place as students visited the beehive located in a remote, secluded, gated, and locked location. Students are closely monitored,

groups create a new web site for his bee removal and honey

screened, and trained on proper safety techniques and

business. In addition, Dr. Holbrook is currently identifying

wear top-of-the line safety suits and gloves to ensure a safe

opportunities for collaboration across disciplines at the school.

academic experience.

There are possible plans to collaborate with SMH business

To further teach her students practical skills, Dr. Holbrook had her students create 15 ecology/bee/business web sites.

classes to development an actual business with financial analysis. The students have even began publishing a blog,

Following the judging, the web site work was so impressive,

which includes a running “diary” of info and photos to update

that one business owner requested that one of the student

the community about the hive’s progress.

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BRISCOE WESTERN ART MUSEUM 2019 NIGHT OF ARTISTS SALE & EXHIBITION The Briscoe Western Art Museum raised more than $1.85 million in total art sales during the opening weekend of the 2019 Night of Artists Art Sale & Exhibition. This year’s show is the largest to date with 277 works of painting, sculpture and mixed media by some of the country’s leading Western artists.

Proceeds from the sale benefit the educational programs, exhibitions, and collections of the Briscoe Western Art Museum.

The 2019 Night of the Artists opening weekend was attended by more than 900 artists, sponsors and guests.

Internationally recognized artists participating in the show include Billy Schenck, Mark Maggiori, Martin Grelle, Z.S. Liang, Bonnie Marris, John Coleman, Mary Ross Buchholz, George Hallmark, Kent Ullberg, and Kim Wiggins.

The public exhibition and sale continue through May 5, 2019 at the Briscoe Museum’s Jack Guenther Pavilion, located at 210 W. Market Street on the San Antonio River Walk, with all unsold artwork available for purchase.

Left to right with speakers: Blanca Aldaco, Lori Krieger, Jane Bockus (Dykema), Susan Butler.

DYKEMA’S WOMEN BUSINESS INSTITUTE Dykema recently hosted a “Celebrating Women Business Owners in the Arts” event. Friends and clients who attended heard from three amazing women owned businesses who shared their inspiring stories on their paths to success.

MAY/JUNE 2019

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WHAT’S NEW

SAN ANTONIO WOMEN’S CHAMBER San Antonio Women’s Chamber hosted their 2019 Transformational Leadership Development on April 18 at Old San Francisco Steakhouse. Asia Ciaravino, the CEO of SA Youth was the was the featured speaker.

26TH ANNUAL CREW FORUM The 26th Annual CREW Forum was held on April 15 at Tobin Center.

Opening the event was CREW President, Katherine Howe Frilot.

This year's theme was San Antonio: A Global Competitor. Byron Carlock was the speaker. Byron leads PwC’s U.S. Real Estate Practice. Attendees learned how San Antonio is competing globally in the commercial real estate market. There were exhibitor booths and an opportunity to check out the exclusive renderings gallery, and network with SA’s top CRE professionals.

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PROFILE

Fueled by OPTIMISM, CONFIDENCE AND CANDOR

Trudy Madan

By Dawn Robinette Photography by Jason Roberts

rudy Madan’s home is decorated in bold colors and

“Think whatever you want to think. A pretty face will get

statement pieces, a reflection of her personality and

you in the door, but a great mind will keep you there.

how she approaches life. The Founder and CEO of

Underestimate me. I will show you.

Synergyst Research and Discovery Clinical Trials radiates confidence and energy, excitedly talking with her hands

"I think it's great being a woman. We can juggle so much and can do so many things. We are detail oriented and

while discussing something she’s passionate about. And

empathetic. We have so many components. It's like fine

with Madan, that’s everything. Whether she’s discussing her

wine: there's a lot of things that go into it. We're complex.

business, the importance of community service or her

And that's good."

beloved dogs, a conversation with Madan leaves no doubt that she puts 100 percent of herself into everything she does.

Madan founded the company after a physician friend asked for help with a clinical research project. As Madan worked on the effort, she discovered an unmet need:

Creating a company to do what no one else was doing fit for Madan, who loves innovation. “In business, you have to create your own change. That’s my philosophy: let’s do it before we have to do it. Get in front of it.”

That take-charge mindset flows from a habit she believes

handling the administrative aspect of clinical trials.

has helped her succeed: general optimism. "During

"Physicians doing research typically have one employee

uncertain times — and in business, that's all the time —

doing it all. They're stretched. We handle the administrative

you have to be optimistic and believe in yourself. You have

piece, the clinics do the clinical piece," she explains.

to think, ‘I can get through this, I can do this, this is not

"The administrative piece is laborious: budgets, contracts,

anything different than I've done before.

scheduling appointments … it's similar to a doctor's office:

Madan’s optimism — and serious work ethic — has

care vs. office management. For clinical trials, we handle

helped Discovery Clinical Trials appear perennially on the

office management."

“Inc 500/5000 Magazine” list of fastest growing companies.

With six offices stretching from the Rio Grande Valley to Dallas, Madan and her team manage as many as 100

“Working hard is the key. Being present. Showing up. These are all clichés, but they’re clichés for a reason. It works. My

clinical trials a year, playing a key role alongside physicians,

mom worked 2-3 jobs. If that doesn’t shape you, I don’t

the Federal Drug Administration, and pharmaceutical

know what will. You have to go to work. You’ve got to work

companies to help bring drugs to market. It’s a male-

hard. Do the best you can because what’s the point of just

dominated field, but that hasn’t deterred her. She even

showing up to watch the clock?”

relishes being underestimated.

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When Madan is filling positions on her team, she works

“Everything is about the mind. Where there’s a will, there’s a way. And whether you think you can or think you can’t, you’re right. Having that mindset has reallly helped me.

“

MAY/JUNE 2019

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PROFILE

Madan enjoys having the freedom to work from home.

to get to the heart of how an applicant will fit in that

‘You can’t make all of the mistakes on your own. There’s

environment. When she asks the standard interview

not enough time. Learn from others.’ It’s not just about

question, “What are your strengths and weaknesses,” she’s

mistakes, it’s about what you can learn from what others

not looking for the glossy, perfect answer. “People will say,

have done.”

‘I haven’t thought of my weaknesses.’ No. I want you to tell

Madan's career and marriage brought her to San Antonio

me the real deal. If people can’t come up with even one

from the Dallas/Fort Worth area. When the marriage didn't

weakness, that’s a red flag for me. We all have weaknesses.

work out, her career kept her here. "My personal life was

I have hundreds that I could go over with you. Weaknesses

already disrupted. I didn't want to disrupt my career.

are not a bad thing.”

I decided I was staying. With life's ups and downs, these

Madan notes that her leadership style has evolved over time. “I’ve learned that it’s not managing people, it’s

decisions shape the rest of your life."

Reflecting on how she made the decision to stay in

coaching people,” explains Madan. “Coaching people, they

San Antonio and continuing building her career, she shares

will make the decisions. When someone presents you with a

advice that she believes all women should follow. “Don’t get

problem, ask them for three solutions.”

“Early in my career, I wanted to fix it, ‘Let me tell you how

stuck in a situation. Have options. I know way too many people who don’t go for it. Don’t get in a situation where you

to fix it.' Now I'm more of, ‘Let me teach you, let me mentor

don’t have options. When you have options, you will make

you, let me coach you,' so the team, the management, can

better decisions. I’ve learned that first hand.”

take that down to the next level."

She believes in mentoring, as well as learning from

Much of that lesson was learned during her childhood.

When her successful father, a real estate developer in India,

others. "I've surrounded myself with people that are amazing

died unexpectedly with no life insurance, her stay-at-home

in whatever aspect. And I'm a little sponge, taking it all in. If

mother wasn't left with many options. There weren't funds

someone you respect tells you maybe you ought to not do

to finish their house that was under construction, and her

this, and here are the reasons why I think that's a great way

mother wasn't aware of the finances — and didn't have any

to live. Learn from others. You can't do it all on your own.

income of her own. Madan was three, and her sister was

“I want advice from people who have figured it out.

nine. "You always hear about rags to riches, but we went

People I respect, I admire. I call on them. I love the quote, 20 SAWOMAN.COM

from riches to rags," she explains.

Five years later, the family immigrated to the United States to build a life here. “We struggled. My sister and I learned how hard it was for our mother to get things, to learn the language, to go to school. She worked 2-3 jobs to support these two little kids. We have this incredible work ethic because of her. It teaches you-you don't ever want to be in that situation.

“Early on in my life, it was all about making sure that my career was in order because my mother struggled with that.

It became my number one focus — having that security, taking care of yourself because no one else is going to.

You’ve got to take care of yourself. That notion—I want to be taken care of’ — I don’t get.”

Looking back, she recognizes that focusing so much on her career wasn’t the ideal because it kept her from finding balance. “Now in my life, it’s all about the balance. If I work hard, I want to play hard. I want to travel. I want to do community service. I want to be successful in my professional life. I want to be successful in my personal life.

“I wasn’t mature enough to see that in my 20s, but I’m figuring it out now. Balance is now mainstream, but back then, you never heard the word balance.”

Part of that balance is putting her health first. “I think we have to be proactive about our own health. Nobody’s going

I'll just dwell and dwell and dwell. I'd rather keep myself occupied, keep myself moving, keep myself going, and during that time, I will resolve it."

Madan is one of the co-founders of Women Give Back, a local nonprofit that donates 100 percent of the funds it raises to local charities. Giving back is something she firmly believes in. "If the community is good to you, then you

to care but you, so be proactive. If you have your health, you

be good back to the community. It's reciprocated.

have everything. If you don’t have your health, you have

Reciprocity is so important. I'm floored that people don't

nothing. You can’t take care of anybody else if you’re sick.

think that way. If you're so blessed and you have so much,

It’s like on an airplane [putting on oxygen masks]: take care

shouldn't you share?

of yourself first, then do your child. Take care of yourself first and love yourself.”

But the petite ball of energy has to force herself to exercise. “I wish I was more disciplined. For me, it’s a chore.

“Life is about giving and sharing. It’s not about me, it’s about all of us. I’m floored when people don’t have that philosophy.”

That sort of candor is a hallmark of Madan’s. “People

It has to be written on my to-do list. I try to eat well, try to

would describe me as honest. Authentic and very honest. If

drink less and try to work out as much as I can.”

you ask me a question, I will tell you my opinion. I would

And though she's not a gym person, she enjoys taking walks and finds that being outside helps relieve stress. "I like nature. I like to go outside for a walk, sit out in the courtyard, listen to the water, being around my dogs — that's my stress relief."

The avid animal lover doesn't have a typical day but does

never make it as a politician because I’m going to tell you the truth.”

"There are stages in life. You want a big house when you don't have a big house. You get the big house, and you hate the big house, so you want to go back to the small house. I think we have to go through these transitions of wanting

try to work from home at times to limit distractions. While

something, checking that box off, then it's a new box we

her two fur loves, Milo and Cosmo, do their best to get her

want. We change as human beings every three to five years

attention, she finds that giving herself that space helps her

— probably more than that. We're creating new boxes, or

focus and find solutions.

bucket lists, every day. And the boxes you want to check off

Stepping outside, or stepping away, from a problem, not only relieves her stress but often helps her find a solution.

"If I'm sitting here thinking about that one big work issue,

are different."

“What I know now, I didn’t know five years ago. And I can’t wait for the next five years.”

MAY/JUNE 2019

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FEATURE STORY

All You Need is

Love

Four Moms with Very Unique Families

By Meredith Kay Photography by Jason Roberts

There is no one size fits all when it comes to what the definition of a family really is.

It means something different to everyone.

For some, the American standard of a mother, a father, and 2.3 children epitomizes what a family looks like. For others, it is a community of individuals that support one another and love each other, whether related or not. Our family dynamics and situations change throughout the course of our lives and we have to adjust accordingly. Some of us choose to sustain the status quo, while others choose to go out on a limb, catching everyone they touch in their web of love and calling them family.

MAY/JUNE 2019

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FEATURE STORY

Cindy Graves Sharing her family with two girls who needed one, brings her twice the joy. ulling up to the home of Cindy and Steve Graves, the scene looks idyllic. Steve is playing catch with his son in the front yard, and two teenage girls are trying to corral two petite, dark-haired little girls, while Cindy watches over her beautiful family. Upon meeting them all, you realize that they are all as kind and gracious as they look, as they welcome you to their home and begin to tell their story.

Three years ago, Steve, a pastor at Shearer Hills Baptist Church, and his wife, Cindy, decided to go through the foster program to become a certified foster family. They both felt strongly that they were being called to help children in need, and that their family of five had enough room and enough love to gift their family to a child without one.

When the Graves’ received their first call about a foster child in need, they were informed that there were twin baby

family. But the risk is worth it, because it’s not about us: it’s about the need that so many kids in this city have for a family. We committed to be a family for some kids who

sisters in dire need of a stable, loving environment. They had

needed one whether that was for 6 months, a year or

not originally anticipated fostering more than one child, but

forever. It’s such a blessing to us to get to be our daughters’

in foster care training classes learned about the need for

forever family.”

families to take sibling groups to prevent siblings from being

Having a large family, of course, comes with its own

separated after removal. When they heard about the

set of challenges, and the Graves’ have had to adjust

situation of these five-month-old twins their hearts melted

accordingly. Cindy homeschools her children, and the older

and they said yes immediately. The family’s other children,

girls are very hands-on with the care of the twins. Everyone

Ashlyn, then 11, Rebecca, age 9, and Samuel, age 4, were

pitches in to help out, and they have created a system that

onboard immediately, and welcomed the babies into their

works for them.

home with open arms. Ashlyn says that she did worry about

Cindy continues to work to spread awareness of the cri-

becoming too attached to their new sisters, knowing that

sis here in our own city. When she speaks about the need to

they could be placed back into their original home at any

attract more people willing to foster a child, she states, “You

time, but she, and her sister and brother stepped in to help

don’t need to be perfect. You just need to have a desire to

care for these sweet babies, because they knew it was a

love kids. A high percentage of the kids that age-out of the

privilege to love them even if for a short time.

There were supervised visits with the girls’ biological

foster care system wind up incarcerated. They don’t have the stability nor the support system to become a productive

parents, and a trial through which the courts had to decide

member of society. Being there for a child in need, not only

whether to reunite them with their original family, but in the

has the ability to improve a life, it also has the ability to im-

end, the parental rights were terminated, and the Graves’

pact the lives of everyone in the community.”

were free to pursue the adoption process. It took two and a

“If you want to change the trajectory of this country, then

half years of red tape and their faith in God to get through

choose to step in and love a child in need,” Cindy states

the legal process, but today Cindy and Steve Graves will

with passion. There is a way that everyone can get involved

smile warmly and tell you about their five beautiful children.

at some level, and her message of hope, and the example

We knew that the risk was high, that we would get attached

that her family is setting, will hopefully become contagious in

to kids and then they could be placed with their biological

a city that is in desperate need of a little more love.

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So Blessed Photography So Blessed Photography

So Blessed Photography

“ If you want to change the trajectory of this country, then choose to step in and love a child in need.”

MAY/JUNE 2019

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FEATURE STORY

“ It is important to Jimmy and I that our children learn as much as they can about their religion and they actively practice the customs of the Jewish faith.”

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Gabriela Tawil Raising three sets of twins means double the love x3

abriela and Jimmy Tawil met in Laredo and began a difficult relationship fraught with cultural differences.

Jimmy is Syrian and Jewish, and grew up in Laredo.

Gabriela was an ambitious Catholic lady fresh out of college.

She also grew up in Laredo and returned to work for General Motors in her hometown after earning her business degree from Notre Dame. Gabriela also earned her master’s degree in Logistics from Texas A&M in Laredo. The two dated for 7 years before they married. Before they decided to get married Gabriela began her studies to convert to Judaism. Once they decided to marry, her parents knew about the marriage, but they hid it from his parents for three years. However surprised their families might have been by this unlikely union, there were many more surprises to come in the lives of the Tawil family.

Today, Gabriela and Jimmy have been married for 19 years, and together they juggle schedules and chauffeur their six children between sports practices and games, violin lessons and various local children’s camps. There are three sets of twins in the Tawil family, and although this makes for a lively household, they are making it work with a lot of patience, a little help and a lot of love. The oldest twins are

This summer, Jakob and Elliott will have the opportunity

Jakob and Elliott. They are 16 years old and are excited to

to participate in a five-week trip to Israel, where they will

get their first cars. Athletic boys, they are also your typical

study the history and the sacred lands of their heritage.

big brothers, playing pranks on their younger siblings and generally testing their parents as all teenagers do. In the

During their busy week, Jimmy works in commercial real estate and also runs a toy import/export company out of

middle of the tribe are Olivia and Tevia, their bright and

Laredo. He commutes down there on Tuesday mornings,

energetic 9-year-old daughters. Making up the tail end of

returning on Friday. The couple usually tag teams the driving

the Tawil family are Avi and Lazar, the only set of twins that

duties on the weekends, as they chauffeur the children to

are identical. They are adorable 7-year-old boys who love

soccer games and other sporting events, but they somehow

their video games and are constantly keeping the rest of

seem to get it all done. Gabriela is incredibly organized and

the family on their toes.

one peek into their garage confirms this. The bicycles are

The older boys attend Alamo Heights High School and the younger kids attend the Eleanor Kolitz Hebrew

neatly lined up and ready to ride, and she has laundry down to a science. The older boys are great at helping out their

Language Academy, where Gabriela established EKHLA

younger brothers, when they aren’t teasing them or chasing

Athletics and Enrichment Programming in 2013. She

them around.

also does marketing, development and fundraising for the school.

“It is important to Jimmy and I that our children learn as

Theirs is a house is full of love and laughter, and every Friday night they gather to chat about their week and to celebrate Shabbat with a seated family dinner. This is a rare

much as they can about their religion and they actively

occasion with so many different activities throughout the

practice the customs of the Jewish faith,” Gabriela says.

week, but the Tawil’s love of family is palpable.

MAY/JUNE 2019

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FEATURE STORY

Gina Francis Hughes Blending these two families has been her recipe for happiness ina and John Hughes met online. John, his 2 daughters and their lab, Bella, drove back and forth from College Station for 18 months so they and their families could intentionally get to know one another.

“We both knew it wasn't just about John and me, but John, me, 7 kids, and 2 dogs getting to know each other. We Photo by Ethel Zarinana

gave it our best shot to see if we thought we could see ourselves combining our families one day,” said Gina.

Gina is a financial advisor for Edward Jones in Alamo Heights, and the mother of five. John is a tech consultant for a software company and has three children of his own; but none of that scared them as their relationship grew.

They married in February of 2016 and John made the move to San Antonio with his daughters, Samantha, now

One of their biggest challenges is spending quality time

a sophomore at Texas A&M, and Claire, a junior at TMI.

together. “When there's so much to do with work, life, and

John’s oldest daughter, Elly, is 26 and married, living in

logistics, and church, and I'm spread thin between so many

Southern California.

Gina’s oldest daughter, Julia Grace, is currently a

kids, and buying groceries and keeping gas tanks full, time connecting is sparse. Building meaningful relationships

freshman at SMU in Dallas. Trinity, a senior at TMI, will be

within our family and nurturing my kids is what I value most.

taking a year off to volunteer in Argentina. Rounding out the

John's and my relationship is still formative. We are both

crew are Celeste, age 14 and a self-proclaimed “science

intentional, so we have our own time and support one

nerd”, attending The Keystone School, and the twins, Anna

another which takes time and love over and over. We are still

Clare and Chance, aged 12, attending The Keystone School

in the honeymoon phase, not your typical honeymoon, but

and San Antonio Academy respectively.

we are having so much fun and loving life even with all of the

Gina and John are proud of the fact that all of the children are independent and resourceful. By age 8, the kids

moving pieces says Gina.”

One of the new traditions that they came up with, in

do their own laundry, make their breakfast and pack school

order to stay connected with one another during their

lunches, keep their rooms clean, and the list grows from

incredibly busy lives, is to discuss the “Highs and Lows” at

there as they've gotten older. Everyone pitches in with

dinner. This allows everyone to become invested in each

household chores on the weekends, even if the chores

other. They congratulate one another when it is merited, and

aren’t always equally divided. Some days someone will put

they console and encourage each other when it is needed.

in more work than the others, and some days you get the

Gina insists on eating dinner together as a family every

easy jobs, just like life. They don’t micromanage the

weeknight even if dinner is late. Everyone loves having

children. Instead they encourage their independence.

friends over for dinner or big parties and they all pitch in to

Gina states, “If you don’t give them a chance to fail, they

cook, decorate, set the table and clean up.

don’t learn that it’s OK to fail, and to try harder to do better.”

Trying to get everyone to their various activities throughout the week can sometimes be challenging, but it's

The children have become very close to one another, and all of them have found a way, not only to coexist, but to thrive as one big family. John and Gina, together, are a force

only logistics, nothing an excel spreadsheet and calendar

to be reckoned with, and you can tell how much they value

can't handle.

teamwork by the way that they interact, tell their stories and

On the weekends, it is a whirlwind of sporting events,

support each other. Anyone spending time in the Hughes

track meets and other hobbies, but they make it work, and

household can feel the synergy, born from love and respect,

continue to support each other along the way.

that they have created.

28 SAWOMAN.COM

“ I’m spread thin between so many kids, and buying groceries and keeping gas tanks full, time connecting is sparce.

Building meaningful relationships within our family and nurturing my kids is what I value most.”

MAY/JUNE 2019

29

FEATURE STORY

“ Our church family has been there supporting us every step of the way; we couldn’t have done this without them.”

30 SAWOMAN.COM

Stephanie Barnett She answered the calling and her love is changing the course for eight children. ne San Antonio woman and her husband’s lives were changed profoundly by an organization trying to make a difference in the lives of children with special needs and an article in People magazine.

The couple adopted their son, Copeland, now 17 years old, in 2002, and raised him as they lived and worked; a happy little San Antonio family. David is an accountant for a construction company, and Stephanie found her calling when she was teaching at McArthur High School, where she met a student named Ben, who had Down syndrome. Ben charmed and enchanted Stephanie, and she brought up the idea of adopting a baby with Down syndrome to add to their family. At first David was not on board with the idea but over time, he warmed to it. They adopted Silas as an infant from foster care in 2008. Raising a child with Down syndrome comes with many rewards and challenges, and Stephanie began researching the best ways to care for him, and what other families were doing to enhance the lives of the children they loved with this condition.

It was then that Stephanie came across a People magazine article in 2010 about an organization called Reece’s Rainbow. Launched in 2004, this non-profit organization helps families with grant money so that they

and wading through political paperwork, to grow their family

can afford to adopt children with Down syndrome. Reece’s

of four to a burgeoning family of seven. That first adoption

Rainbow’s mission is to help place children with Down

trip brought home Teague, now 12, Trenton, now 10, and

syndrome, from around the world, with willing and loving

Maclayne, also age 10. Most American mothers prepare for

American and Canadian families. Stephanie became an

almost a year to bring home their newborn, but Stephanie

advocate and learned about the plight of children born with

and David became the parents of one toddler and two

the disorder in Ukraine. There, babies with Down syndrome

infants with special needs all at once.

are often abandoned and left at orphanages, where the

The family struggled to find a system that worked for

neglect and abuse is horrifying. Stephanie was so struck by

everyone, but they figured it out and even thrived. Teague,

this information, and felt compelled to do something, but

Trenton and Maclayne grew and adjusted well to life in

with two small children of her own, she didn’t know what

America, where they were fed properly and loved every day.

that would be. So, she and David prayed about it and

They were given proper medical attention, and eventually

hoped that the answers would come.

given the proper accommodations to begin school.

Stephanie and David spent many months of prayer,

However, in 2012 the BBC produced a documentary on

counsel and talking with Copeland to make sure he

the orphan crisis in Ukraine and how babies with special

understood and was on board with the decision. They finally

needs were being abandoned and left to the overcrowded

decided in 2011 they were called to adopt from Ukraine.

and underfunded orphanages, where neglect and abuse

Stephanie and David set out to adopt three children with

were the norm. This sparked a fire in the heart of not only

Down syndrome and bring them back to Texas to join their

Stephanie but Copeland too. With the support of David,

family. It took two trips to Ukraine, many weeks of waiting

family, friends and their church, she set out once again in MAY/JUNE 2019

31

FEATURE STORY 2015 to Ukraine while David stayed home to care for their

horrors that await a child who “ages out” of the system

children and work, to save three more lives. This second

are unspeakable.

journey to Eastern Europe was more arduous however, and Stephanie spent three long months crisscrossing the

The Barnett’s are stretched to their limits, but they are happy, and the children are thriving, knowing that they are

country to adopt Chesnie, now 20, located in a horrible

loved and that they are safe. They have made more sacri-

orphanage in Eastern Ukraine, Rawlen, now five years old,

fices than most of us can even imagine, and yet they feel

located in Kyiv, and Bowen, now 15, housed in Western

that God will keep them going. With great friends, support

Ukraine. The journey between eastern and western Ukraine

from their church family and Reece’s Rainbow community,

was 20 hours by train, and Stephanie would make the

and programs that help them get the accommodations that

journey several times while her adoption papers were

they need, this incredibly special family has truly made a dif-

being processed.

ference in the world.

Stephanie smiles and says, “our church family has been

Families create our foundation in life. Where we come

there supporting us every step of the way; we couldn’t have

from, and those who love us early in our lives, will have a

done this without them.”

profound impact on our futures. Love is the common bond

Today, the house is full of laughter and activity. Stephanie and David do their best to make sure that every child feels

that makes us thrive as human beings, and it is the thread that allows these families to succeed. I think we can all

loved, and they have great hopes that a few of the boys will

agree that the world would be a better place if we lived by

one day be able to become semi-independent. Their love,

the spirit that these four families embody. We could all use a

tenacity, generous spirit and resolve to make a difference

little more love.

have, no doubt, saved the lives of those children who would have surely died in those Ukrainian orphanages. There are no programs for humans with special needs, and the

32 SAWOMAN.COM

For more on the families featured in this article, go to sawoman.com.

AT HOME

Entertaining LIFe IN THe CoUNTRY

By Robyn Barnes

Photography by Al Rendon

After a hard day working in the city, Kim Gresham unwinds with a long drive to the country home she shares with husband Alan and three canines. Alan and his company, Gresham Homes, originally built the house intending to sell it. But as the walls went up and the floors went in, Kim liked it more and more. The couple bought it and moved in nearly four years ago.

MAY/JUNE 2019

33

AT HOME

34 SAWOMAN.COM

Kim and Alan love to entertain, and the house is certainly built for it. The deep front porch with its comfortable seating invites you in. The flow of the home allows the guests to circulate easily from the dining room into the living room and kitchen into the spacious screened porch beyond.

The home’s 4450 square feet, with five bedrooms and five baths, are designed for easy care. The eightfoot doors are solid wood. Flooring is wood in all the public rooms and carpet in the spare bedrooms.

Granite countertops are used on the kitchen island and in the baths, but quartz is the material of choice for kitchen countertops.

A small pass-through bar separates the dining room from the living area. Because the Greshams chose not to put blinds on the dining room window, the room is awash in natural light. The rectangular table seats six. The chandelier is satin nickel.

The focal point of the room is a large four-panel artwork made of individual pieces of wood. “Hanging those panels was a real challenge,” Alan says. “They are heavy! Kim and I did it by ourselves and got it right the first time we tried. We considered that something of a surprise!”

The living room is comfortably furnished in modern leather sofas and dual recliners that face the fireplace.

“The engineering marvel in this room is the center beam in the ceiling,” Alan says. “It’s a 42-foot clear span, built on the job. I like the way it leads the eye from one end of the room to the other.”

The living room is comfortably furnished in modern leather sofas and dual recliners that face the fireplace. The flow of the home allows the guests to circulate easily from the dining room into the living room and kitchen into the spacious screened porch beyond.

MAY/JUNE 2019

35

AT HOME

"The kitchen island is the center of every party," Kim says. It measures 6'x13' and offers plenty of prep room.

party in another room.”

Large glass sliding doors open onto the spacious

There's a vegetable sink at the end of the island, and a small

seasonal room. “We live out here!” Kim exclaims. It’s easy

refrigerator built in that is specially made for vegetables.

to see why. Comfortable seating faces a large fireplace and

All the appliances are by Bosch. Pendant and recessed

big screen TV. The round dining table seats four. The

lights and under-cabinet lighting ensure no dark spots on

outdoor kitchen features a Coyote grill that can double as a

any workspace.

The Gresham’s breakfast nook is a game room. “We

smoker, although there is an enormous smoker outside, along with a Big Green Egg.

already had so many places people could eat,” Kim says, “and this space was perfect for our pool table. Guests can play or watch the game without being separated from the 36 SAWOMAN.COM

“I love to barbecue,” Ken says.

“This gives me lots of options.”

At Left: Large glass sliding doors open onto the spacious seasonal room. Comfortable seating faces a large fireplace and big screen TV. Below: The Gresham’s breakfast nook is a game room. “We already had so many places people could eat,” Kim says, “and this space was perfect for our pool table.

The focal point of the dining room is a large four-panel artwork made of individual pieces of wood.

The backyard centerpiece is the raised pool with the swim up bar and separate hot tub. Wicker chairs can be pulled up alongside the pool so swimmers and sunbathers can chat together. A separate seating area is across the yard by the smokers. There’s plenty of grassy space for grandchildren and dogs to romp together.

“We wanted our master bedroom and bath to be a little retreat,” Ken says.

They seem to have accomplished their MAY/JUNE 2019

37

AT HOME

goal. The master bedroom features a stepped ceiling and gentle five-window bay overlooking the pool. Cowhides serve as area rugs, and the king-size bed faces an entertainment center with a largescreen TV. Beneath the television is a bobcat trophy from a hunting trip.

The master bath is quite large, with split lavatories and a multitude of cabinets.

Separate closets add to the storage space, as does the coffee bar Ken built.

Instead of coffee service, it holds Kim’s jewelry collection.

The freestanding soaking tub and double shower are luxurious. “I love my tub and shower,” Kim says. “They are a haven!” Travertine floors and clerestory windows complete the suite.

The Greshams occasionally use the home as a model for Ken’s clients and it’s no wonder. This showplace could sell anyone on country living!

38 SAWOMAN.COM

Master bath features split lavatories and a multitude of cabinets, as well as a freestanding soaking tub and double shower with travertine floors and clerestory windows. The master bedroom has a lovely stepped ceiling and gentle five-window bay overlooking the pool.

Cowhides serve as area rugs, and the king-size bed faces an entertainment center with a large-screen TV. This is truly a master bedroom and bathroom retreat.

AT HOME EXTRA

indows are essential for bringing in light, creating connections to our environment and adding beauty to our residential structures. In ancient China, Photo by Anuja Vidhate from Pexels

Windows Through

Korea, and Japan, paper was used for windows while the Romans were the first to use glass and the English used animal horn as panes thin enough for light to enter.

The need for connection to the outside is something people have always desired. Window styles have changed dramatically through history along with varying building methods and modes.

Today, with windows come all the decisions around how to treat them in the home. When discussing “window

TIME

treatments” with clients, I get all kinds of different responses.

It varies from, “what is a window treatment,” to the knee-jerk response from clients building a new home or doing an addition, “why would I want to cover my beautiful view?”

As their interior designer, my role is to explain to them that window treatments need not impede a beautiful view, and then I patiently wait for them to move in and discover that they cannot sleep in their new master suite with morning sunlight streaming in or to find that the neighbor's security

By Amity Worrel, Interior Designer Amity + Kett Architecture and Interior Design

light shines into a room. Then they call and say, “help!”

Window treatments range from shutters, to shades, to blinds, to a simple valance or curtain panel. In ancient times people needed window treatments for warmth and to keep Photo by Expect Best from Pexels

out dust and dirt and even security. Bandits were kept out by shutters with metal hardware, and the Greeks used marble shutters to help their spaces stay cool in the hot sun.

In current times people are still concerned with security/ privacy that window coverings can provide. In fact, some shades are so efficient at blocking UV rays and heat that they improve a window’s function by 90% or more.

My favorite function of a window treatment is “top down bottom up,” because it allows the homeowner to have

“The history of architecture is also the history of windows,”

complete privacy. They can see out of the top portion of the windows--while even in their skivvies--without being seen,

Le Corbusier, the Swiss-French pioneer of modern architecture.

or place them in a down position, allowing in all the light and view without compromising privacy.

Recent laws about cord safety have prompted new window treatments that function without any cords whatsoever. The days of expensive motorization are gone Amity Kett Architecture & Interior Design Photo by Lars Frasier

40 SAWOMAN.COM

as well, with battery-powered shades for houses not wired for automation.

As an interior designer, I love having the option for simple decorative curtain panels that purely frame a window and need not be the privacy provider. They simply give us the chance for more fabric and interest in the space. The thing to remember is, no matter the style of your home, it is important to consider making your windows feel finished with a treatment that adds value of both function and beauty!

FASHION

The Winning Wardrobe NAWBO SAN ANTONIO’S WOMEN BUSINESS OWNERS OF THE YEAR SHARE THEIR STYLE SECRETS

By Aquila Mendez-Valdez Photography by Beth Coyle

or 20 years, the San Antonio chapter of the National

While operating 81 Denny’s

Association of Women Business Owners has

restaurants across six states,

awarded the top businesswomen in the area with

winner Dawn Lafreeda believes as

prestigious accolades during their Women Business Owner

CEO her attire should set an

Awards. This year, we wanted to sit down with the winners

example for the rest of the

to see what makes their sartorial sense a winner just like

company. “I think you have to dress

their careers.

to make yourself feel good, no matter what the dress code is,” Deborah Bauer, winner of the Lifetime Achievement Award for her

she says. “Often at meetings they say we can wear jeans but I am

work in commercial real estate,

not comfortable so I wear what I feel best in. I like to

says heading up Drake Commercial

present a professional image always.”

means donning a fashionable yet classic style. “I would say I’ve

WaterFleet CFO Allison C. Pyle

become less conservative over the

brings a “trendy traditional, with a

years, depending on the occasion,

dose of hippie” style to her com-

but I still maintain a sense of

pany, which manufactures mobile

appropriate and suitable fashion

water treatment equipment that’s

in all regards.” As for a wardrobe staple she simply can’t live

revolutionizing the remote work in-

without? “A starched white blouse.”

dustry. To young women looking to enter the workforce, she recom-

NAWBO-SA also honored four women with the Women Business Owner of the Year Award, each of whom displayed their own talents and achievements at the March 28th awards ceremony.

From architecture to food and beverage, the career paths were as unique as their senses of style.

42 SAWOMAN.COM

mends to “honor your personal style without disrespecting the company you represent or yourself.” Pyle continues, saying, “Don’t be afraid to be feminine; but don’t distract your audience from seeing you, because they are looking at your outfit or a wardrobe malfunction.”

Also disrupting the energy industry is Paula Waggoner-Aguilar, who founded The Energy CFO as a solution to companies seeking financial guidance without the burden of full-time staff.

Waggoner-Aguilar says she’s learned the hard way how to dress in a maledominated industry. “Once, I showed up to take inventory at a jungle location in open toe sandals. I had no idea what to expect, but I remember standing there watching all the snakes and spiders fall off the bags of drilling mud. Big lesson – always, always wear appropriate footwear.”

Finally, Judith K. Zimmerman serves as President of RVK Architects where she says women in her industry have more opportunities to “mix it up”. “We are not restricted to a suit and tie,” she says.

“I personally love the freedom of styles in women’s clothing that allows our personality to shine through.”

Congratulations to Sarah “Sally” Cheever who received the Legacy Award and all the award winners, and to NAWBO-SA for 20 years of highlighting women entrepreneur success in San Antonio. All of us at San Antonio Woman applaud you!

MAY/JUNE 2019

43

BEAUTY

Bravo Beauty ‘Texicanas’ star Mayra Farret shares her skincare and makeup tips

By Aquila Mendez-Valdez

his May, San Antonio is abuzz with excitement as Photography courtesy of Bravo

Bravo kicks off a new reality TV series centered on local women who are navigating life as ‘Texicanas’.

The show follows the drama as they balance motherhood, careers, and high society, all while trying to stay true to their Mexican roots in a Texas culture. We wanted to know from one of the show’s stars, Mayra Farret, how her beauty routine has lent itself to TV fame.

San Antonio Woman: Hi Mayra! Describe your makeup

SAW: You've got 5 minutes to get ready — what do you do?

routine - how does it differ for evening and daytime?

MF: Concealer, eyeliner, mascara and lipstick. I love bright

Mayra Farret: I exercise a lot during the day, unless I have

lips! I really don’t really care if it’s day or night, I feel like they

an event, I don’t use any make up at all. I like to detox my

give my face a touch of youth. NARS’ lipstains are the best!

face and let the pores breath while I exercise. When I do use

You can count on them lasting for hours.

make up though, I try to always accent my eyes and lips.

I love the 60’s inspired makeup; Audrey Hepburn’s style is

SAW: What's the one beauty product you absolutely cannot

my favorite. Chantecaille eyeliner is fantastic to create that

live without?

iconic cat eye. When it comes to eyeshadow, during the day

MF: I have always suffered from dark circles and eye bags

I like soft and earthier tones to look more “natural.”

so the eye concealer is my most important asset; I love LaMer’s eye concealer. Also, when I need a little extra help I

My favorite palette is Laura Mercier’s “Extreme Neutrals”

do a little extra hydration underneath it. I personally like the

Color Palette. During the night I like to do smoky tones and

“Eye Contour Mask” from Sisley.

the YSL “Tuxedo¨ Color Palette,” it’s sexy and elegant at the same time. For mascara I use Lancome’s Monsieur Big; it

SAW: What's one beauty hack you swear by?

gives your lashes the perfect volume and an amazing length

MF: I love massaging my face and especially under my eyes

with just a little bit of product. If I am feeling very glam, I like

with the jade eye and face roller. I always keep it in the

to finish my makeup with a face illuminator; Laura Mercier’s

freezer and when I apply my serum, I enjoy giving myself a

is my favorite! They have a collection called “L’amour

mini massage on my face with it. It helps with any swelling

Exotique” that has the most amazing palette.

or tiredness I might have.

44 SAWOMAN.COM

SAW: What advice would you give to San Antonio women when it comes to beauty?

MF: Never hesitate on taking care of your skin. You can own many expensive designer clothes, bags and shoes, but you only have one face to wear; take care of it.

Make time to get enough rest and pamper yourself from time to time. Also, drink lots of water!

SAW: Any tricks or tips you learned from the show for makeup?

MF: I was never good at applying makeup by myself, but I learned that having a good set of makeup brushes is very helpful to create all sorts of effects. You can find amazing sets at the drugstore for a very decent price; e.l.f. is one of my favorite brands.

Mayra’s Picks

Clockwise from the top left: Chantecaille Le Stylo Liner, Black Grande, $35 Laura Mercier Extreme Neutrals Eye Shadow, $58 Laura Mercier Face Illuminator, $45 YSL Tuxedo Eye Palette, $95 MAY/JUNE 2019

45

the Dossier MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONALS

Did you know:

With the proper help and treatment people can live happy and productive lives. The following pages feature some excellent resources if you or someone you know is looking for help. *Statistics from The National Alliance on Mental Illness

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

THE DOSSIER —

MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONALS

Mental Illness is not Contagious

By Susan Thornton

Mental illness refers to a wide range of

treatment center, the right help can and

mental health conditions — disorders that

will allow people to live a happy and

affect your mood, thinking and behavior.

healthy life. As with any other illness you

Depression, anxiety disorders, schizo-

have to find the right help for you. If you

phrenia, bipolar disorder, eating disorders

try a doctor or therapist and don't feel

and addictive behaviors are some of the

that you are getting the help you need for

mental illnesses that are prevalent in our

yourself or your loved one, try another

society.

one. There is an abundance of support available in our community, and you can

Mental illness hurts. It affects people of all ages, gender, race, religion and socio-economic level.

It alters family relationships.

It changes friendships. It affects work and every aspect of life.

It is misunderstood and carries a huge stigma. It is sad.

find it if you are persistent.

Start by talking to your primary care physician who can recommend a specialist, a treatment facility or some other community resources. Support groups can be a great way to connect with other individuals and families who

shame, misunderstanding, negative attitudes, and fear of discrimination. The

are not alone.

There can be many causes for mental illness including a chemical imbalance,

perceptions about mental illness make it

genetics, trauma and environment.

difficult for those crying out for help when

Environmental causes could be exposure

they reach out to friends or family and

to drugs, alcohol or toxins that affected

they are told to "shake it off," or “get

the brain in utero.

over it.” Their symptoms are real and are common medical conditions that require

Mental illness is everyone’s problem.

According to the National Institute of

help and understanding. They are not

Mental Health, depression is the leading

character flaws.

cause of disability worldwide and costs

Most people who have cancer or other illnesses have family or friends who rally

America $193.2 billion in lost earnings annually. More critical 90% of people

around them and help them through

who die by suicide, which is the 10th

treatment whereas people with mental

leading cause of death in the U.S.,

illnesses or addictions tend to push

have an underlying mental illness.

people away which can become very lonely for them and their family.

But it doesn’t have to be this way.

Mental illness and addiction are

Bexar County Resources for Children 1in5minds.org

AVAILABLE APPS What’s My M3 Offers mental health screening, tracking and crisis information Care Zone Provides medication reminders and stores your insurance and physician information Drugs.com Has a listing of all medications and interactions as well as a pill identifier

not contagious and are nothing to be

What’s Up Provides CBT/ACT methods and coping strategies and also has a diary feature for habit tracking NAMI Air Is anonymous and that provides support and encouragement MHU Is very comprehensive and includes signs and symptoms with resources and referral for Bexar County MY3 Includes a file that lets you add your mental health network with a proactive plan Mood Tools Includes a thought diary and helps individuals develop an activity list for coping or support

ashamed of. Going to a counselor or

With proper treatment, whether it be a

therapist when you’re feeling sad or

psychiatrist, psychologist, therapist or

overwhelmed should be as normal as

counselor, medication, support group or a

going to the doctor when you have the flu.

48 SAWOMAN.COM

National Association of Mental Illness (NAMI) nami-sat.org

are going through similar situations.

It’s important to remember that you

People are afraid to talk about it due to

LOCAL RESOURCES

Crisis Text Line A help line via text. Individual’s text START to 741-741 and a live counselor with training in active listening skills will respond.

Becky Davenport, Ph.D., LMFT-S owner and Founder, Institute for Couple and Family Management NEW and expanded location: 21015 Market Ridge, San Antonio, TX 78258 What is your area of specialization as a mental health professional?

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist-Supervisor with 20 years of experience working with couples, children, families, and individuals. I have 3 interconnected areas of specialization: couple’s therapy, discernment counseling, and collaborative divorce. My passion and commitment to working as a neutral facilitator in collaborative divorce processes came out of my years of working with couples and children who had been negatively impacted by contentious, adversarial divorces.

Collaborative divorce provides couples with a private, dignified structure to not only make decisions for themselves about the issues necessary to finalize a divorce, but also to move into post-divorce life as effective co-parents for their children.

210-496-0100 icfetx.com

What is the first step for someone who wants to initiate therapy with a spouse or family member?

Recognize that you are seeking help for a relationship, not an individual, and that you are a part of it, even if you don’t believe the problem is your “fault”. A heart-felt invitation to work together to make changes and improve a relationship is much more likely to result in both parties showing up vulnerable and open to growing and learning together.

What is the biggest problem you see now days in the area of mental health?

Our desire to shut off negative emotional experiences or discomfort before we are able to learn what they are telling us about ourselves and our relationships creates much unnecessary suffering.

THE DOSSIER —

MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONALS

Windmill Wellness Ranch Shannon Malish, owner 26229 N. Cranes Mill Road, Canyon Lake, TX 78133 What field of the mental health profession do you work in?

Substance Use Disorder, Addictive Disorders, and Mental Health Disorders.

What is your biggest challenge as a mental health professional?

The patients' and families' commitment. Once we have that, we can move mountains.

We have tried everything, and my loved one isn’t getting better – why?

We have found most people with substance use disorder, or mental health disorder have not been able to deal with the underlying issue because they have not gotten the treatment they needed. First, you need a proper diagnosis, and that requires a highly educated and experienced therapist, and a

210-460-2867 windmillwellnessranch.com full assessment: biological, psychological, and sociological.

Once the assessment is complete, proper therapeutic intervention can be developed and deployed. Sometimes people have depression or anxiety as a result of trauma.

The trauma must be addressed. Many see a psychiatrist and are prescribed medications. Genetic testing needs to be a part of this process to see if medications are needed and which ones will work. If there is an imbalance of the brain, that needs to be addressed. Lastly, therapy takes time and commitment. Once you do all of the above, people can get better for good!

How do you recommend someone go about finding a mental health professional? Focus on your area of need.

Read patient reviews and do your research.

Janel Whidbee, MD and Cynthia Hathaway, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner 1580 South Main Street, Suite 205, Boerne, TX  78006 Hours of operation: Mon-Thurs 9-3 and Friday 9-Noon What field of the mental health profession do you work in?

As a Psychiatrist and PMHNP we evaluate, diagnose, and prescribe a treatment plan to include medications, therapy, and/or other specialized treatment. Depression, Anxiety, BiPolar Disorder, ADHD, PTSD are some of the most common diagnoses we see here in our office.

How is your office different from other mental health offices?

We provide personalized, private care and treatment plans that are tailored to each patient's individual needs. Like many psychiatry offices nationwide, we are no longer under contract with insurance companies; however, we do provide the documents you need to submit for reimbursement.

830-816-5454 whidbeehathawayclinic.com Appointments are scheduled for 30 minutes, or 1 hour, depending on the treatment plan. In most instances, are able to schedule appointments the same week. We pride ourselves on up to date pharmacologic knowledge and current advancements in our field.

What is the first step a family member who is concerned and seeking help for someone in their family should take?

If they are willing to get mental health help, refer them to their primary care provider for an assessment or call our office.

Seeking help for mental health is not something to be ashamed of, treatment by trained professionals can make a positive difference in your life.

Women in Business

SAWOMANCONNECT.COM

54 SAWOMAN.COM

SPOTLIGHT

Dr. Patricia Lew

DAOM, L.Ac., President, Owner, Licensed Acupuncturist Alamo Heights Wellness

What made you decide to go into the field of acupuncture?

My senior year at the University of Texas at Austin, I received a coupon in the mail for acupuncture. I decided to try it for a variety of health issues and fell in love with acupuncture during my first treatment. Soon, I was getting acupuncture once a week, then twice a week, frequently asking my acupuncturist many questions.

Eventually, she encouraged me to consider acupuncture as a career because of my obvious passion for it.

What kind of education did you need to become an acupuncturist?

To practice acupuncture in the state of Texas, a master's level course of study is required, as well as completion of several board exams. I received my Bachelor of Arts in sociology (with a minor in architecture) from the University of Texas at Austin and then received my Master of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine from Texas Health and Science University in 2007.

I completed my four national board exams from the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM). To stay at the top of my field, I have also successfully completed a doctoral program from AOMA Graduate School of Integrative Medicine.

What is the best advice you ever received? “If you’re honest and you treat people well, then you will receive all the customers that you need.”

What would people be surprised to know about you? I’ve been playing the violin since I was 11 years old.

I play a mean “The Devil Went Down to Georgia” on my fiddle. Other than holistic medicine, playing the violin is my greatest passion.

How does acupuncture work?

Acupuncture increases circulation and reduces inflammation in the body.

Most diseases of the 21st century involve inflammation, therefore if you can lower the inflammation, the body will be able to heal more efficiently.

What makes your clinic different from other clinics? Our clinic offers a very special technique called “NAET.” NAET is a holistic treatment that involves acupressure, acupuncture, and homeopathy. This

safe and gentle technique reprograms the body to use nutrients, lowers inflammation, and reduces allergy symptoms. I have found this technique to produce amazing results, far above and beyond those typically seen.

What conditions can be treated with acupuncture? Acupuncture can treat any health condition on the planet. My favorite conditions to treat are allergies and auto-immune disorders because both conditions respond very well to holistic medicine.

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56 SAWOMAN.COM

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Women in Law

Raising the

BAR

By Dawn Robinette Photography by David Teran

Lawyer jokes are a dime a dozen, but our guess is that if these top-notch litigators walked into the bar, everyone would enjoy lively conversation while learning a thing or two about how to successfully represent their clients.

And having these women enjoy a drink and conversation together fits with the collegial atmosphere in San Antonio.

Litigation, at least in San Antonio, is a noble profession where opposing counsel treat each other with respect.

They may fight battles in the courtroom, but these attorneys believe that advocating for their clients and supporting other women in the legal field are not mutually exclusive.

They also all believe in the importance of mentoring, being involved in the community and doing what it takes to help their clients meet their goals.

And that’s no joke.

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57

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Larissa Sanchez Fields Member, Dykema Cox LLC

Some people might be intimidated by taking a case to trial, but Larissa Sanchez Fields, Member at Dykema Cox LLC, enjoys it. "It's exciting to take all of these facts, build this story and tell it to a jury — and try to get them to understand where you're coming from in a very short amount of time. You've worked the case for four to five years, and you have 30 minutes in an opening statement to be able to sell them on your story," she explains.

"I enjoy fighting for my clients. By the time a case gets to trial, it's usually on an issue that is very important to them, that they feel worth fighting for.

I feel very honored that they pick us to fight for them."

The San Antonio native has managed to maintain her career with the firm in spite of being an active duty Air Force spouse, following her husband to various duty stations while managing her caseload remotely. “They’ve made sure it didn’t set my career back. I’ve built and maintained a practice through the support of really amazing mentors.”

“When you’re first out of law school, you have no idea what you’re doing. You learn from the people you work for. You learn how to be a lawyer watching others. Find those people who are going to help you be the best lawyer you can be and allow you the opportunity to do what you know you can do,” she advises.

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Julia Mann

San Antonio Managing Partner, Jackson Walker, LLP Julia Mann is enjoying a milestone year, being elected Managing Partner of Jackson Walker’s San Antonio office just four days after celebrating her 50th birthday. This year also marks 25 years of practicing law and 25 years of marriage to the husband who encouraged her to pursue law in the first place. Considering her success, there’s little doubt that she followed the right path.

Having an attorney as a father, Mann was fairly well prepared for a legal career.

“What I did not know is how much I would truly love it. Solving problems, helping people, and the thrill of a good court argument never gets old,” she explains.

Based on her experience, she advises other women to let others help them in their careers.

“Not only mentors but those around you.Women tend to be the doers and rarely ask for help.

Asking does not mean you can’t do something, just that you want to collaborate to achieve the best result."

Mann is a firm believer in Jackson Walker Women, the firm's women initiative, which works to attract, retain and promote female attorneys through efforts like networking, client development, and alternative work schedules.

As a litigator, Mann embraces challenges. “Challenges are opportunity, an opportunity to learn, to grow and to succeed. If there were not challenges out there, then my clients would not need me.

My best days are when I have faced a difficult issue and come up with a solution.”

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Mysti Murphy

Attorney at Law, Mysti Murphy Law Firm

Mysti Murphy found her way to family law as a Dallas County Assistant District Attorney, serving as Chief Felony

While Murphy is an experienced litigator, she encourages her family law clients to consider collaborative divorce, a

Prosecutor and Specialized Trial Prosecutor primarily in the

cooperative process in which a couple and their lawyers work

area of domestic violence. Now on the civil side, she sees

together in private to resolve the issues in the divorce.

family law as a good place for women. "A lot of people like to

The process is designed to be respectful and efficient.

have female attorneys when it's a family law case. They see it

“Collaborative law is a healthier approach to divorce that can

as giving them an edge.”

Murphy’s experience as a prosecutor helps fuel her commitment to the Bexar County Family Justice Center Foundation, where she serves on the board of directors.

benefit everyone,” she explains, noting that the process can remain positive and help minimize the negative effects on children involved.

Whether the process involves collaborative law, mediation or litigation, Murphy believes in making positive

“There’s such a need. The services provided by the Family Justice Center make it easier for victims to get the help they need to change their lives.”

60 SAWOMAN.COM

progress. “I tell my clients, it’s one day at a time, one step at a time, one small thing at a time. Tackling one thing at a time makes it easier.”

Kristal Cordova Thompson Shareholder, Langley & Banack, Inc.

One of only ten lawyers in San Antonio elected as a fellow to the American Academy of Matrimonial Specialists, Kristal Cordova Thomson is a family law specialist, Board Certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. She’s currently Chair-Elect of the Family Law Section of the State Bar of Texas and believes being active has been key to building her practice. “A lot of what I’ve learned has been helpful to my career. It’s a break from representing clients, but it helps make me a more well-rounded professional and is beneficial to my practice.”

Thomson found her way to family law thanks working part-time with a solo practitioner during law school. Fielding a call from a mother upset about a father picking up the children later than what the court had decreed, the conversation put family law in perspective for her.

"So many of these people are just going through a tough time, and they need more than legal advice. They call us attorneys and counselors at law. At least half the time I’m a counselor with some legal background.”

She applies that same practical approach to how she practices law.

“Female attorneys get so much advice about “leaning in.” There are so many mixed messages out there—it’s overwhelming. But it’s really is two things: work hard and don’t be a jerk. You can advocate, you can be competitive, you can be aggressive without being a jerk, and it will all balance out.”

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Lauren Valkenaar

Senior Associate, Norton Rose Fulbright US, LLP When looking at potential future careers, Lauren Valkenaar, Senior Associate at Norton Rose Fulbright, was drawn to the intellectual challenge of the legal profession. To confirm that a legal career might be a fit, she worked at a law firm to get an inside view. “It’s nothing like what you see in the movies,” she laughs. “But I found out I absolutely loved it.”

Ultimately graduating as valedictorian from St. Mary’s School of Law, there’s little doubt that she made the right call.

Valkenaar enjoys becoming close with her clients, advocating for them and working collaboratively to achieve their objectives.

“It’s not only important to have strong legal skills and expertise, but to also understand your client’s business and understand how to help them achieve their goals.”

The nature of the bar in San Antonio has helped solidify her love of the profession.

“Particularly in San Antonio, the bar is very collegial. Even though you’re vigorously fighting something in court, you’re still able to be friends. I practice all over the nation, and San Antonio really brings respect and honor to the profession."

Since joining the firm, Valkenaar credits the people she’s worked with for helping her develop as a lawyer.

“You learn something new with everyone you work with. Training like that is instrumental. Having a network of mentors both inside and outside of the firm — all of that is really what is needed to develop.”

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WOMEN IN LAW DIRECTORY

Amber Liddell Alwais is an experienced family law attorney who protects her clients, making them feel safe and secure while fighting for them. She is compassionate and committed to providing highly personalized legal services in all Family Law matters, including traditional and nontraditional divorce, custody issues, property division, child support and adoption matters.

Amber grew up in Texas and graduated from Sam Houston State University, magna cum laude. She graduated from St. Mary’s University School of Law, San Antonio in 1996. Amber has been acknowledged for her excellence in family law with a multitude of honors and awards including being recognized as Texas Super Lawyer for a number of consecutive years. In addition to her legal practice, Amber serves as a family law, probate law and criminal law instructor at The University of Texas at San Antonio.

Amber Liddell Alwais Partner, Board Certified - Family Law Texas Board of Legal Specialization orsinger, Nelson, Downing & Anderson, LLP 310 S. St. Mary’s Street, 26th Floor, San Antonio, Texas 78205 • (210) 225-5567 • www.ondafamilylaw.com

“When I was young, I saw my parents go through a very nasty divorce. It had a profound effect on me, and I became a family law attorney to help others, especially children, avoid going through that experience, if possible.”

Jamie Graham has more than twenty years of legal experience and a well-earned reputation for excellence. Mrs. Graham has earned multiple awards for her excellence and dedication as an attorney. Most of her clients are retained through referrals from our current clients and, many times, from the former spouses of our clients.You can rely on receiving accurate information and experienced advice from Mrs. Graham. Her priority is to ensure that you have the information and advice you need from an experienced attorney to make informed decisions throughout the family law process.

Jamie Graham & Associates, PLLC, is a law firm dedicated to helping men and women throughout the San Antonio and surrounding areas in divorce and other family matters.

Jamie L. Graham Sr. Litigation Attorney Jamie Graham & Associates, PLLC 310 S. St. Mary’s Street, Suite 2500, San Antonio, Texas 78205 • (210) 308-6448 • www.jamiegrahamlaw.com 64 SAWOMAN.COM

of practice as a family law attorney. She grew up a child of divorced parents and learned the benefits a positive co-parenting relationship can have on the children first hand and the difficulties children experience in blended families. Her experiences and determination led her to earn a degree in Journalism at the University of Incarnate Word, and then a degree from St. Mary’s University School of Law. During her time at St. Mary’s University, she participated as an associate editor on the school’s Law Journal while raising her first son and giving birth to a second.

Stephanie believes she brings a fresh approach to family law by focusing on the family first. “As parents, we work hard to raise young and successful adults. Our actions (and sometimes inactions) and words have meaning in their everyday lives. Even if the marital relationship changes, a child’s relationship with each of their parents needs to remain a constant. The way parents interact with each other, or in front of their children, have on-going and lasting

Stephanie Hoppas Family Law Attorney The Law offices of Stephanie Hoppas

effects.”

“With legal guidance focused on the best interests of the children, both parents can continue to cultivate the child’s growth and development.”

1919 San Pedro Avenue, San Antonio, Texas 78212

•

(210) 988-0789

•

www.sphlawyer.com

Laura D. Heard has practiced law in San Antonio since 1987 and has owned her own firm since 1992. “Justice Flows from Truth, Compassion, Wisdom and Persistence,”TM is her motto. Her practice focuses on all aspects of family law, including Divorce, Wills and Probate, and she represents abused children in fostercare. After graduating with honors from Baylor University, she completed her Juris Doctorate decree with distinction at St. Mary’s University School of Law, where she graduated in the top 10% of her law school class.

She was a briefing attorney for the 4th Court of Appeals in San Antonio and an adjunct professor at Wayland Baptist University in San Antonio. She has authored many articles and helped write a Wills textbook. Laura is a past president of the San Antonio Chapter of Christian Legal Society. She and her husband have 2 grown children.

In 2017-2018, Laura D. Heard was a candidate for Probate Judge in Bexar County. She has been twice honored as one of the best Appellate Attorneys in San Antonio, and in 2019 was honored as one of the Top 10 Family Lawyers in Texas. She is accredited by the Better Business Bureau with an A+ rating. Laura D. Heard is an experienced

Laura D. Heard Family Lawyer and Mediator

mediator with special training in Family Law Mediations, and a volunteer mediator for the Bexar County Dispute Resolution Center.

The LD Heard Law Firm 14607 San Pedro, Suite 205, San Antonio, Texas 78232

•

(210) 655-9090

•

www.LDHeard.com MAY/JUNE 2019

65

WOMEN IN LAW DIRECTORY

Stephanie brings a lifetime of personal experience to her 14 years

WOMEN IN LAW DIRECTORY

Veronica I. Legarreta is the Founder of the Legarreta Law Firm, PLLC. Her practice focuses on criminal matters ranging from DWIs to Murder charges. She continuously fights for a just outcome, whether through plea negotiations or jury trials. Veronica is an experienced trial attorney and dedicates herself to the law and her clients.

Veronica was an American diplomat stationed in Mexico City where she interned for the Department of Justice and for the NSA. After graduating from St. Mary’s Law school, Veronica worked as a prosecutor with the Bexar County District Attorney’s Office. Veronica then turned her attention to criminal defense and has been a criminal defense attorney for over the past eight years.

Veronica has been honored by being recognized as one SA's Top Criminal Defense/DWI Attorneys for 2016, 2017 and 2018. She also received the Latino American Who's Who award. Veronica continues to actively participate as a public speaker on several legal topics.

Veronica I. Legarreta Attorney/Founder Legaretta Law Firm, PLLC 625 N. Alamo Street, San Antonio, TX 78215

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(210) 532-5321

•

www.LegarretaLaw.com

Dealing with family-related matters can be extremely difficult, especially if there are children involved. Any type of dispute, even a minor one, can affect a family negatively for years to come. Having an experienced, compassionate and aggressive attorney will help ensure that you receive the representation and support that you need.

Resolving these very personal needs and issues, whether by agreement or litigation, requires experience and careful consideration of spousal and child support obligations and property division, including business interests, pension and profit-sharing entitlements, trusts and investments. I am focused on developing solutions that suit your immediate and future needs.

Rachel Reuter Board Certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization Bandoske, Butler & Reuter PLLC 500 Lexington Avenue, San Antonio, TX 78215 66 SAWOMAN.COM

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(210) 299-4777

•

www.sadivorceattorney.com

WOMEN IN LAW DIRECTORY

Born in Odessa, Texas, Robbie was taught the value of loyalty, hard work, and dedication at an early age. After graduating from college and St. Mary’s University School of Law, she immediately began working for the Bexar County District Attorney’s office.

Because of her hard work, intelligence and skills as a trial lawyer, she was quickly promoted to a high-ranking Felony Prosecutor. While at the District Attorney’s office, she was recruited by the United States Attorney’s office. After being a Federal Prosecutor, she became the First Assistant in the Ector County Attorney’s office. Robbie was second in charge of that office for 2 years, before returning to San Antonio.

She then became partners at a local defense firm, and has now decided to open her own practice. During her career as a criminal defense attorney she has secured dismissals, including a murder case. She has litigated numerous Jury Trials to “Not Guilty” verdicts. Robbie has represented doctors, lawyers, other professionals, and people from all walks of life, in State and Federal Court.

She is regularly recognized as one of the very best lawyers. As a prosecutor, she was the one other prosecutors went to for guidance. As a Criminal Defense Lawyer, she is the go to Lawyer for those who have been arrested or accused of a crime.

She is currently on the Board of Directors of the San Antonio Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, and a member of both the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers

Robbie L. Ward Attorney at Law

Association and National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. She has been recognized as one of the top 10 Criminal Defense Attorneys in Texas and as a Lawyer of Distinction.

530 Lexington Avenue, San Antonio, TX 78215

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(210) 758-8500

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www.RobbieWardLaw.com

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WOMEN IN LAW DIRECTORY

68 SAWOMAN.COM

WOMEN ON THE MOVE DIANE AKEROYD

DEANNA BOKINSKY

With over 35 years of experience in the financial industry, Diane Akeroyd is an asset for the Mani Johnston Group at UBS Financial Services. Joining the group in April as a Senior Registered Client Service Associate, she has a variety of experience throughout her career which includes being a personal assistant for the President of Cross Financial Services to an Operations Manager at Morgan Stanley.

Diane is a Senior Registered Client Service Associate and carries her Series 7 and 63 licenses.

DeAnna Bokinsky joined Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc. as vice president for strategic planning and growth. Bokinsky will leverage her experience and background in healthcare management, business, performance improvement and network development to enable Methodist Healthcare Ministries to guide the organization into the next decade. DeAnna earned her bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Lincoln University, and her master’s degree in Health Administration, from the University of Missouri-Columbia.

JUDITH A. CANALES

DR. JILL COLE, ND

Judith A. Canales was appointed Executive Director by the Southside First Economic Development Council.

Canales served under Presidents Clinton and Obama as a federal executive at USDA Farm Service Agency, Rural Development, and HUD. Canales is a Ph.D. student in Leadership Studies at Our Lady of the Lake University. She also has an MPA from Harvard University John F. Kennedy School of Government; MA Urban Studies from Trinity University; Bachelor of Journalism from the University of Texas at Austin and an A.A. from Southwest Texas Junior College.

Dr. Jill Cole, ND* left her own practice in Arizona to join forces with Dr. Bernice Gonzalez at The Institute for Peak Health. Dr. Cole is a naturopathic physician who is passionate about helping restore health, vitality and optimal function to the body (mind, spirit, and emotions).

She has a strong focus on education and prevention that is safe, natural & gentle, while addressing the real underlying causes of chronic disease, as opposed to just suppressing or masking symptoms.

SANDY HOGAN

VERONICA MENDEZ, MBA

Sandy Hogan is a technology industry veteran and operating executive with over 25 years of experience and now serves as Rackspace's EVP, Managing Director of the Americas.

She has deep expertise in regional and global sales, and business transformation initiatives, with a customer-centric, go-to-market approach. Sandy has received recognition for her extraordinary leadership, including the YWCA Silicon Valley Tribute to Women Award.

She's a graduate of Lake Forest College and enjoys golfing with her family.

Veronica Mendez, MBA is UTSA’s Chief Financial Officer and Vice President for Business Affairs. She joined UTSA in January 2019 with over 16 years of higher education experience. Mendez advances the UTSA vision to become a student success exemplar and nationally competitive research university. She leads through creating partnerships to bring forth integrated lean processes that add value to the areas that she serves. Mendez cherishes her work in higher education and sees it as an opportunity to enhance access to higher education to underserved communities.

JAMIE NORRIS

ELIZABETH PRIEST

Jamie Norris has recently taken on a new role on her team as a Senior Registered Client Service Associate.

She has 15 years of experience in financial services and is fully registered with her Series 7, 66, and insurance licenses. Throughout her career, she has served in many capacities such as customer service and operations at Citi Global Stock Plan Services to being a Business Analyst at Morgan Stanley. Jamie has been a part of the Mani Johnston Group at UBS Financial Services for 5 years.

Elizabeth Priest’s success as one of the top REALTORS® in San Antonio is driven by her market expertise, insider knowledge of “quietly” listed properties, acute negotiation skills and attention to detail. A part of Jason Glast Luxury Group, with Phyllis Browning Company, Elizabeth is known for her work ethic and concierge-level service.

Her experience and ability to navigate complex, high-end transactions has led to her representation of many of the San Antonio area's most notable sales.

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BUSINESS CALENDAR May 8 NAWBO- National Association of Women Business Owners Cocktail Connections Wildfish Seafood Grille 5:30 PM nawbosa.org May 13 San Antonio Women’s Chamber 7th Annual Grand Golf Tournament Republic Golf Club 8:00 AM sawomenschamber.org May 13 NAWBO - National Association of Women Business Owners Lunch Connections 7330 San Pedro Ave 11:30 AM nawbosa.org

May 14 North SA Chamber of Commerce Power Networking Breakfast Norris Conference Center 7:00 AM northsachamber.com May 15 CREW- Commercial Real Estate Women Luncheon San Antonio Country Club 11: 30 AM crew-sanantonio.org May 15 SA Women’s Chamber of Commerce Smart Women Series San Antonio Water System Customer Service Bldg.

11:30 AM sawomenschamber.org

May 22 Public Relations Society of America 17th Annual Del Oro Gala Witte Museum 5:30 PM prsanantonio.com May 23 NAWBO - National Association of Women Business Owners Monthly Meeting Doubletree Hilton 7:30 AM nawbosa.org May 25 CREW- Commercial Real Estate Women Volunteers for Spring 2019 Brews & Blooms 555 Funston Place 2 PM crew-sanantonio.org

May 30 North San Antonio Chamber 2019 State of the County Omni San Antonio Hotel at the Collonade 11:00 AM June 6 North San Antonio Chamber 2019 June CFO: Business Driven. People Focused Norris Conference Center 11:00 AM June 12 San Antonio Women’s Chamber of Commerce POWERhour Luncheon Location TBD 11:15 AM

The San Antonio Woman Business Calendar lists upcoming events for women’s local business groups that are open to the public. If you would like to have your group’s meetings or events listed send them to susan@sawoman.com and include “SAW Business Calendar” in the subject line.

MAY/JUNE 2019

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ACTIVE LIVING

It’s About Time

How you can place meaning on time spent with family through heirlooms or momentos to pass down through generations

By Jennifer O’Neill

ime is a funny thing and can sometimes fool you

of social media tools Facebook and Instagram) can be taken

with its fluidity. Some days it moves so slowly

of an event is also lost on younger generations with that

making our days last on end, while other instances it

ease in accessibility. To be able to weave a memory in with

moves too quickly leaving you to wonder where and when

a tangible object can emphasize the value placed on that

it escaped. When you become a parent, time takes on a life

precious time spent with family. There are many ways to

of its own, because raising children seems to somehow

incorporate a lasting legacy to share with your loved ones

make it move even faster. You become consumed with

and hopefully pass on to future generations.

day-to-day activities that as you celebrate important milestones, you feel it was all done in haste. When it is all said and done, you are left questioning how you now have a grown adult in place of your once small child.

With Mother’s Day right around the corner, it is not only the perfect time to honor the moms in your life for their

Photography Pictures are the number one item we gather to capture our memories, and they say

endless devotion of time as a caregiver, role model, and

a picture is worth a

supporter, but you as mothers can also take the opportunity

thousand words. Writing

to reflect on the standout moments in your time of

your memory of a

motherhood. You can share special memories or mementos

specific moment to

with your children or grandchildren to pass down through

share your version or

generations or — even more meaningful — share things

story of a particular day

which have been passed down to you. In today's world, so

or event could be a

much focus is placed on the digital part of moments with

special keepsake

our easy access to social media and other technology to

between you and your

“snap” that fun or special moment you might be engaged in

adult children or

with others. However, the value of that time spent together

grandchildren. A framed photo with a handwritten note

vs. the number and urgency of how many photos (and likes

could preserve that memory even more.

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Jewelry

Timeless Pieces of Fashion

Pieces of jewelry hold

When it comes to specific articles of clothing, some

their own distinct place

things just never go out of style. There might be

in expressing love or

a fur stole, scarf, coat, or jacket that the

gratitude with many

fashionista in your family

possibilities to give.

may want to keep.

Whether it’s a favorite

Even a tie or

pendant, or pair of earrings

suspenders worn

you or your grandmother always wore, or grandpa's watch,

by dad could be fun

even an engagement ring to pass onto your own daughter or

items to share.

son's future wife, all express the importance and meaning of love within a family.

Fishing Poles or Hunting Equipment

Recipes and Favorite Cooking Tools

You may have hunters and fisherman

This is an easy and fun one to incorporate. If you know how much

in your family. Giving them past items used, especially if they are gifted during a hunting or fishing trip, could make the time spent together even that more meaningful.

your chocolate chip cookies or brownies

Some of these articles may not seem noteworthy

are enjoyed, you can

enough in your opinion to pass down, but for your

easily record the

children and grandchildren, they may serve as

recipe and share it

reminders of significant and even humorous memories

with loved ones. If

between them, you, and other loved ones.

there is even a tool you use when making a dish, say a rolling pin when you

You also don’t want to leave family members wishing they had the opportunity to ask for specific things because

bake your apple pies for Christmas or Thanksgiving, you

anything could be relevant to them, no matter how big,

could also pass that down as an heirloom. My sister and I

small, or insignificant.

always say we wished we had thought to ask for our grandmother’s cheese grater when family members went through her things. It had the look of a vintage kitchen item and was this mammoth-looking, stainless steel rectangle with a handle on top. It seems like such a trivial and silly thing to want to keep, but she made the best cheese enchiladas with it, and it was one of our favorite meals that she made. We are convinced that it all had to do with that cheese grater and the way it helped her prepare the dish.

Furniture or Home Décor This category sounds as though it can be too much since furniture can include larger-sized items. More compact pieces such as a rocking chair great grandfather made, or smaller décor such as a vase, even a Christmas decoration you might have made, could all be thoughtful keepsakes.

We all know time is fleeting, but what matters is the time spent together, and these mementos can help preserve a family’s legacy and leave an imprint for future generations.

MAY/JUNE 2019

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76 SAWOMAN.COM

HEALTH

ARE YOU HAVING A

STROKE

Do you know how to tell?

By Berit Mason

When Fred Sanford of the TV show

San Antonio cardiologist Dr. Robert

MacInnes is 31. She had strokes, as a

“Sanford and Son," grabbed his chest,

Schnitzler says F.A.S.T. is the national

baby. “I wasn't properly diagnosed with

flailed about, yelling “This is the big

protocol for signs of stroke.

the condition that caused my strokes

one!”, it was obvious, he thought he was having a heart attack.

The No. 1 killer of Americans is

heart disease.

But the No. 2 killer of Americans, stroke, is stealthier.

Stroke victims may instead experience numbness on the left or right side.

until I was 17. I had two strokes in my

F is for “face drooping”

infancy, one on each side of my brain.”

A is for “arm weakness"

“Moyamoya," a condition that

S is for “speech"

predisposes one to strokes. She

T is for “time to call 9-1-1” F.A.S.T. also implies that the faster the

silent stalker.

“Many times when people have a stroke, they realize there were

outcome.

symptoms. Like, yes, I experienced this,

“Do not try to excuse the signs,” says

Perhaps, they have some blurry vision.

Tara MacInnes, a stroke survivor and spokesperson for the San Antonio

And that is the trouble with stroke:

American Heart Association and the

unlike the crippling, undeniable pain

American Stroke Association.

aren't quite sure.

calls strokes that affect the brain, a

emergency response, the better the

Maybe, they feel sudden confusion.

of a heart attack, some stroke patients

Then, she was diagnosed with

“I have heard too many times from survivors, who say they had a stressful

May is Stroke Awareness Month.

month, that they were tired, had

Doctors and stroke survivors want us to

dehydration, and then they chalked up

know the signs of stroke, so that we

those symptoms to stress. I hear this far

can get help, F.A.S.T.

too often from stroke patients.”

but I ignored it, brushed it off, and thought it was nothing,” she says.

“A TIA, a transient ischemic attack, mimics a stroke. But they are not long lasting enough to cause damage to the brain. But they are warnings, or precursors, to a future stroke.”

The American Stroke Association says that strokes are “preventable, treatable and beatable” if one gets prompt medical attention.

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77

HEALTH Signs of a TIA include: • dysarthria, or physical difficulty when speaking

Stay at a healthy weight. Eat nutritious food. And exercise.

It's the same old advice.

The challenge is staying on course.

• loss of balance

“One pickle … has more salt than

• tingling

most people should have in the entire

• dizziness

day,” he says. Even pickle slices — have

• passing out

too much salt!

• severe headache • an abnormal sense of taste or smell

There are two kinds of stroke.

High blood pressure encourages stroke and high stress can spike blood pressure, leading to a stroke.

“Heart rhythm irregularities are also a problem.” The cardiologist explains that

ISCHEMIC

atrial fibrillation means that clots may

“Ischemic is where a portion of the brain

form in the heart, and be “launched like

is deprived of blood, for any one of

bullets into the brain.”

many reasons, some of which can be related to a blood clot getting to a certain area, arising from someplace else in the body,” says Dr. Schnitzler.

Here, there is a progressive obstruction of the blood vessels, leading to a particular area in the brain.

“This reduces the blood supply until that area no longer receives the nourishing blood supply.”

HEMoRRHAGIC This begins in somewhat of the same way, but the blood vessels supplying the area are not healthy to begin with, and therefore, can leak. The leaking and clotting of the hemorrhaged area damages brain tissue. It sounds

If stroke runs in the family, the risk is higher.

J. Fernando Triana, M.D. is with Cardiology Clinic of San Antonio.

“The family history of CVAs may indicate a genetic predisposition. The role of genetics may be a direct predisposition for vascular disease,” he says. CVA is short for “cerebrovascular accident.”

MacInnes says, “Strokes aren’t just for the old.” Her fiancé was a fit 23-year-old and a member of the United States Coast Guard when a brain aneurysm resulted in a stroke.

“More and more, pediatric and

frightening and strokes can kill or leave

adolescents are stroke patients, even

victims incapacitated. But for most

in utero. Strokes can happen to

people, prevention is simple.

anyone, and, at any age,” she says.

“When people diet, it is a lifetime event.

It is not to get into a suit or a dress and then go back to what we were doing before,” says Dr. Schnitzler.

Fatty foods increase cholesterol.

They pile on the pounds and clog up the arteries. And, salt is no friend.

78 SAWOMAN.COM

Tara MacInnes and her husband Sean Bretz both suffered strokes while under 30 years of age. They married this May to mark Stroke Awareness Month.

MOMMY MATTERS

Anxiety: You’re Not Alone

By Pamela V. Miller

What is anxiety?

Anxiety is a word that's used regularly, but it holds a

what many don't realize is that shying away from the issue doesn’t help to get it the attention it needs to create change.

different meaning for different people. For some, anxiety is

Additionally, not talking about it further increases the anxiety

the nervousness you experience before meeting new

of people suffering from the disorder.

people, public speaking, or during a major life event, etc.

For others, it has no start or end. It’s a constant fear or worry before, during and after events that can lead to a physical reaction. It can be accompanied by shortness of

Anxiety and women “Research conducted by the National Institute of Mental Health has shown that anxiety disorders are the number one

breath, dizziness, chest pains, nausea or abdominal distress

mental health problem among American women and are

and can lead to avoidance of regular activities, lack of sleep,

second only to alcohol and drug abuse among men.”2

and other reactions that disturb the course of daily life.

The daily stressors of modern-day life have contributed to

For many women in America, anxiety is a daily struggle.

an increase in incidence of anxiety disorders overall, but

Although these disorders are relatively common, they’re not

women are twice as likely than men to develop a

often talked about.

generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, phobias, and

“National prevalence data indicates that nearly 40 million

post-traumatic stress disorder.

people in the United States (18%) experience an anxiety disorder in any given year.”1 To put it into perspective, that’s

Many factors contribute to the development of an

almost 1 in 5 people. What’s alarming is that only 1/3 of the

anxiety disorder, to include genetics, brain chemistry,

people who could benefit from treatment actually get it and

upbringing, and trauma; but one key factor is the

many continue to struggle alone.

result of cumulative stress over time.

The stigma associated with anxiety disorders, fear of being judged, and/or lack of resources prevents people from

Over the last 30 years, life for women has changed

obtaining the help they need. It's generally not the topic of

significantly. Stress associated with excelling in personal,

conversation at the water cooler or on playgrounds, but

professional, and family life — simultaneously — has

80 SAWOMAN.COM

increased as women have broken past gender barriers.

medication, diet, exercise and lifestyle changes. Finding the

We've had to work harder to prove our worth, and that has

right combination depends on the individual. Work with your

come with an enormous amount of stress.

Motherhood is another role we take on that involves a tremendous amount of stress. According to Scientific

doctor, and/or therapist to find the right course of treatment to fit your needs. Most importantly, know that you are not alone and it’s okay to ask for help.

American, women suffer more from anxiety disorders due to “… a combination of hormonal fluctuations, brain chemistry, and upbringing: women more often feel responsible for the happiness of others, such as their children or their spouse."3 Caring for our families takes priority over self-care, and the stress that ensues isn’t remediated.

This hamster wheel way of life isn’t sustainable or healthy — especially for those who are predisposed to having a disorder. Finding the right balance between caring for others and caring for ourselves is vital. We need to push what other people think and “mom-guilt” aside and be okay with asking

Treatment Options therapy

lifestyle changes

diet

emerging therapies

exercise

coping techniques

medication

meditation

for help, then actually take the time to get it. Whether it’s carving out time from the family or work to decompress, seeking medical help or therapy, or simply just by talking about it with someone you know and trust, it’s important to get the support we need.

As more people talk about their experience with anxiety, the more widely accepted it becomes. Celebrities like Oprah Winfrey, Adele, Emma Stone, and Sarah Silverman have come forward about their struggles with anxiety, and their bravery has opened the door to more conversation.

Learning that you’re not alone and that treatment options exist can be life-saving to a person struggling with a disorder.

For more resources and information on Anxiety Disorders, check out: • The Anxiety and Depression Association of America at adaa.org • Anxiety.org • Womenshealth.gov/mental-health/mental-healthconditions • The Anxiety & Phobia Workbook

by Edmund J. Bourne, Ph.D.

Coping with anxiety With the help of modern medicine, therapy, and coping techniques, it is possible for people suffering from anxiety to learn to deal with it and have a better quality of life. There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to treatment, but methods may include a number of different therapies, training,

1 Understand the Facts. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://adaa.org/understanding-anxiety 2 Bourne, E. J. (2015). Anxiety and phobia workbook, 6th edition. New Harbinger Publications.

3 Anxiety Disorders Are More Common in Women. (n.d.).

Retrieved from https://www.scientificamerican.com/ article/the-anxious-sex/ MAY/JUNE 2019

81

MOMMY MATTERS EXTRA

From Social Drinking to Stress Relief A firsthand story of motherhood, anxiety and alcohol misuse

By Christie Cuthbert

During my college days I would study hard throughout the week and look forward to “Thirsty Thursdays” at our local bar. Going out with friends and having some laughs over pints of cheap beer was a reward after a week of hard work.

As I grew older, it turned into a nice dinner and bottle of wine with my husband on Friday nights, toasting the successes of the week. Drinking was always a social, celebratory part of my life. It wasn’t until I became a mother that it went from drinking for pleasure to drinking for sanity.

Like so many other moms today, alleviating my daily anxiety and stress with a glass or two of wine became my normal. And throughout the course of five years, a not-sohealthy daily coping habit formed. I knew it needed to change but didn’t know what to do with the anxiety I was attempting to calm, something so many moms struggle with.

Since the day my triplets came home from the hospital in 2013, there’s been a three-ring circus going on in my head. The subconscious social pressures of today’s society and what it means to be a “good mom” are strenuous, and the more I tried to achieve perfection, the more I relied on wine to get me through it all.

Is their homework done? Did I get everyone to school, sports and all other activities on time? Was there at least one serving of fruits and veggies in their diet today? How am I going to manage this meltdown in the middle of the grocery store?!

All these thoughts and a million more swirl in my brain daily, like a “trying to stay on top of it all” tornado. And I’m not alone. Drinking is considerably up among women throughout the nation, according to the National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. It’s something my generation celebrates via social media, memes and more.

For better or worse, we have normalized it and made it acceptable practice to drink our worries away.

You’ve had a rough day with the kids? “Wine time!” a friend will text. Sat through two sports practices and a back to school night? You deserve a Chardonnay reward.

My light bulb moment for wanting to change my relationship with alcohol was that I was no longer drinking for pleasure, I was consuming it to cope with the anxiety bottling up inside. Once I sought out therapy and was able to take a sober step back and address my motherhood mental health, I was eventually able to reinvent my relationship with wine.

Not a day goes by in a mother’s life where there’s not something to worry or fret about, especially in today’s fast pace world. And for those like myself, who have self-medicated with their favorite varietals or cocktails, it’s never too late to reexamine your relationship with drinking and bring it back to a healthy place; a place of celebration, not struggle.

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HILL COUNTRY WOMAN

The Secret to their Success

By Jennifer O’Neill Photography by David Teran

For this group of women, that secret involves the success they wish to bestow on others. From taking steps to help individuals improve their mental health and well-being, helping families build their dream home, or hosting weddings for couples beginning their future together, all of them take pride in making an impact on others.

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HILL COUNTRY WOMAN

Shannon Malish

Founder and CEO of Windmill Wellness Ranch Dedication and a passion for helping people get better by putting the patient first spurred Shannon Malish, founder and CEO of Windmill Wellness Ranch, to open the inpatient and outpatient facility which is unlike any other in its specialties of trauma, drug addiction, and mental health. With her background as a licensed clinical social worker, years of running 12 different inpatient and outpatient centers, and a personal connection of losing her younger sister to depression and anxiety — she decided to take things into her own hands.

She now has methods for treatment to address underlying issues with therapy instead of placing, as she refers to it, “a band-aid over the problem.” The two-year-old Windmill Wellness Ranch is the only center in Texas recognized for treating co-occurring psychiatric disorders also known as dual diagnosis. She credits her staff of 60, which includes some of the best clinicians, psychiatrists, nurses, even a chef on site, in helping to carry out the holistic approach she envisioned when she set out on her journey.

The passion for its startup spills over into the types of programs offered at Windmill Wellness Ranch down to the look and feel of a patient’s experience while there. Located north of Canyon Lake, the Texas Hill Country is the ideal spot for the facility, because first and foremost she doesn’t want her patients to feel as though they are in a hospital. It looks and feels like a ranch with its sprawling 70-plus acres, 12 buildings for different activities, and hotel-type rooms for inpatient stays.

And the Ranch’s state-of-the-art programs for addiction, trauma, and the most significant area treated there — depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders — feature new approaches in treating these conditions. The iTMS treatment, is one type offered through her other business housed onsite, the Brain Frequency Center, and provides a non-invasive method at the front end of brain science. It is instrumental in treating conditions such as ADHD, autism, different neurocognitive disorders, and even people who suffer from sleep issues. She can personally attest to its benefits and success as her son underwent iTMS to treat ADD and observed those symptoms disappear with the treatment. With an astonishing success rate of 94% when combining ITMS treatment with therapy, it will eventually move people away from having to rely on medication.

For Malish, the reward of seeing broken families come together and people find their happiness is the culmination of her vision and perseverance as she says, “I’ve seen miracles happen here.”

86 SAWOMAN.COM

Rachel Mikulec Mortgage Banker, Sente Mortgage

For Rachel Mikulec, a seasoned mortgage banker (NMLS 456061) with Sente Mortgage, her years of working in the banking business are not just about the types of financing she can provide her clients, but it’s also about helping them be financially successful in thinking about their future. The Smithville, Texas native initially thought she would work in pharmaceutical sales when she first graduated from Texas State University, but she found her way to mortgage banking creating a niche in the custom home market. She and her team provide financing for a variety of loans including lot and construction loans to build a new home; FHA, USDA, and conventional loans; along with financing for commercial and investment properties to name a few. Her role throughout each step is the most rewarding part for her as she views it as an opportunity to teach the process of knowing the “why” behind choosing what is right for clients when building a home.

She transferred this same philosophy when building her team at her New Braunfels office explaining she brought members on board to set them up for success. Her willingness to go above and beyond for her team members and clients, from working weekends or hand delivering paperwork if needed, is part of a lasting legacy she learned from a young age. She credits her hard-working parents and a mentor, Richard Burdick, for instilling the importance of leaving behind a personal mark or contribution for others to remember and live by.

That very same consideration and emphasis on helping others succeed are what brought Mikulec to Sente Mortgage’s home office in Austin. When her youngest son was diagnosed with autism at a year and a half, she made sure to give him access to one of the best school districts for children with special needs. It was when he turned three that she moved herself and her two sons to the area to enroll him in the best early childhood program to meet his educational needs. She shares, “He became the leader on my journey in life.” Taking that step proved to be the right one as she has now built a solid reputation among New Braunfels area builders and agents as one of the best to work with in addition to being a top producer for Sente Mortgage three years in a row. Given all the success she has experienced, it pales in comparison to the success she is fortunate enough to witness among her clients when they take that step in making a home for themselves.

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HILL COUNTRY WOMAN

Myra Zunker Chandelier of Gruene

Weddings are an introduction to a couple’s story; the beginning chapter of a lifetime together where no detail is too big or too small to include. At the Chandelier of Gruene, Myra Zunker and her family could not be more gracious in the role they play in bringing a couple’s wedding story to life with their warm, inviting, elegant, and expansive venue. Back in May of 2017, when they hosted their first wedding, Zunker treasured it coming to life as she recalled the days of selling weddings before even breaking ground with only a vision of what she intended to provide through pictures, samples, mock-ups, and visual markers of cones and stakes. She values being entrusted with one of the most memorable days for a family and strives to carry over the “foundation of love” she learned from her parents and in-laws, who each share over 60 years of wedding anniversaries.

Zunker first got the bug for working in the wedding industry years ago while working for a couple of different bridal boutiques, and it was when she was helping her oldest daughter plan her wedding when the idea for the Chandelier of Gruene began. As the sixth generation of family living in the area, they couldn’t quite find the right space large enough to accommodate their guest size. When her daughter made a joke about building a barn, things began to come together.

The road to building what it is today wasn’t easy, but after purchasing the property from a family friend and five years of planning and research, she and her two daughters, Chelsea and Haley, ensure the Chandelier of Gruene covers every detail of wedding day memories. The experience they provide couples is a family affair with her husband and sons-in-law often helping out as well.

The property boasts three different structures with the open-air chapel standing out as Zunker’s "pride and joy" with its antique church pews and bell tower. Lodging is provided with the original ranch home on site, and within the grand event hall is where you'll find a blend of elegance with a Texas Hill Country feel. Several chandeliers are featured throughout the space, with the main one taking center stage at a substantial size of six feet wide by five feet tall. Incorporating these symbols of elegance into the business name is a nod to Zunker and her husband's days spent at the famous dance hall the Crystal Chandelier as she fondly recalls good times as a married couple at the popular place. She now gets to be the one to provide a good time for a married couple’s important day in their lives, and the ultimate reward in that is to hear the satisfaction from the bride, groom, and their families at the end of the night.

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HILL COUNTRY HAPPENINGS

NEW BRAUNFELS & GRUENE Just a few miles outside of San Antonio are two quaint towns with adorable shops, great restaurants and lots of events that are fun for everyone.

Every Saturday NEW BRAuNFELS FARMERS MARKET

186 S Castell Ave., New Braunfels May 4 2019 ANNuAL FAMILy PRoMISE BED RACE

Church Hill Middle School Track 1275 N Business 35, New Braunfels May 4 WEIN & SAENGERFEST

Downtown New Braunfels May 18 & 19 oLD GRuENE MARKET DAyS

Gruene Historic District May 25 ANTIquE BARN SALE AND MARKET

New Braunfels Conservation Society 1300 Church Hill Dr., New Braunfels May 25 & 26 CoDy JoHNSoN & FRIENDS

Whitewater Amphitheatre 11860 FM 306, New Braunfels June 1 & 2 2019 HoME AND GARDEN SHoW

New Braunfels Civic/Convention Center 375 S Castell Ave., New Braunfels June 8 RANDy RoGERS BAND

Whitewater Amphitheater 11860 FM 306, New Braunfels June 28-30 uRBAN CAMP WEEKEND

201 Mt. Breeze Camp, New Braunfels MAY/JUNE 2019

89

HILL COUNTRY EATS

TOP 20 RESTAURANTS YOU WILL LOVE NEW BRAUNFELS • GRUENE

Take a road trip and check out some of Texas’ best restaurants — just a short drive from the city.

THE RIVER HouSE TEA RooM

Home cooked meals served with fresh, local ingredients and known for afternoon tea with entrees and desserts in a charming setting including a shady patio.

1617 New Braunfels St., New Braunfels 830-608-0690 theriverhousetx.com

uNIoN STATIoN DINER

Casual, quaint family operated classic diner for breakfast and lunch. Decorated with train memorabilia.

512 E San Antonio St, New Braunfels 830-627-1727 unionstationdinernb.com

BuTTERMILK CAFé

American comfort foods from buttermilk pancakes to fried okra served in a cheery atmosphere with an upscale twist. Opens daily at 7am.

1324 East Common Street, New Braunfels 830-625-8700 thebuttermilkcafe.com

2TARTS BAKERy

Scratch baking of cakes, pastries and cookies, plus a light café menu all served in a colorful eclectic setting.

139 N. Castell, New Braunfels 830-387-4606 2tarts.com

ALPINE HAuS GERMAN RESTAuRANT

A beautiful historic 163-year-old landmark building helps create an intimate setting for this boutique restaurant serving German fare. Seating is limited and reservations encouraged.

251 S. Seguin Ave., New Braunfels 830-214-0205 alpinehausnb.com

FoRK & SPooN PATIo CAFé & BAKERy

A varied menu of timeless favorites, fresh baked goods, and served with juices, wines, or cold beer.

651 N. Bus I-35, Suite 1150 at The Marketplace, New Braunfels 830-626-6999 forkandspoonnb.com

CRoSSWALK CoFFEE HouSE & CAFé

Quaint coffee house in historic downtown area serving sandwiches, soups, salads, smoothies, breakfast, and varied coffee offerings.

471-A Main Plaza, New Braunfels 830-620-7200 crosswalkcoffee.com

THE DoWNToWNER

A modern, casual eatery serving American/Southern cuisine, supporting local, farm fresh suppliers.

208 S. Castell Ave., New Braunfels 830-627-9080 downtownernb.com

HuISACHE GRILL AND WINE BAR

An intimate and casual eatery known for excellent food served with fresh regional ingredients. Extensive wine list.

303 W. San Antonio Street, New Braunfels 830-620-9001 huisache.com 90 SAWOMAN.COM

NEW BRAuNFELS SMoKEHouSE

A local and tourist favorite known for the hickory smoked BBQ of several meats. Casual atmosphere for dinning in or drive-through and take out.

1090 I-35BL, New Braunfels 830-625-2416 nbsmokehouse.com

CRAVINGS

Made for scratch unique American menu of specialty sandwiches, soups,wraps and more. Large dine-in and dine-out location in downtown New Braunfels.

712 W. San Antonio St., New Braunfels 830-626-2728 cravingsnb.com

THE RED oAK BAKERy

From bacon cheddar scones to fresh juicy burgers, this casual eatery is a favorite for breakfast, brunch, and lunch. Also serves gluten free options.

596 S. Castell Ave., New Braunfels 830-609-9912 redoakbakery.com

MCADoo’S SEAFooD CoMPANy

An upscale setting in a converted post office serving Cajun-style seafood and cocktails.

196 N. Castell Ave. New Braunfels 830-629-3474 mcadoos.com

HERBERT’S

A fun, casual spot with lots of outdoor seating near a playground and occasional live music.

Serving traditional Mexican dishes.

1440 N. Walnut Ave., New Braunfels 830-626-9323 mexicanfoodnewbraunfels.com

GENNARo’S LA CuCINA ITALIANA

Italian eatery with a charming, rustic atmosphere and a wood fired pizza oven serving authentic recipes handed down through three generations from the Southern Italian coast.

1304 E. Common St., New Braunfels 830-629-2230 gennaroscucinaitaliana.com

CASA GARCIA

Tex-Mex favorites served all-day until closing at 10pm in a bright colorful setting.

1691 Texas 46, 335, New Braunfels 830-608-8026 casagarcias.net

TEXAS BISTRo AT PARK VIEW

A cozy eatery that offers a unique menu with a twist on American dishes and a specialty cocktail to pair it with. Open for lunch, dinner, weekend brunch, and happy hour. Closed Mondays 1932 S. Seguin, New Braunfels txbistro.com

THE GRuENE DooR

A perfect quaint brunch or lunch eatery with fresh, original, chef inspired dishes served in a warm, relaxed space with an extensive wine list.

2360 Gruene Lake Drive, New Braunfels 830-629-2600 thegruenedoor.com

GRuENE RIVER GRILL

Enjoy sitting on a riverside deck with beautiful views in a rustic setting. Eat from an extensive American menu which includes seafood, steaks, and ribs.

1259 Gruene Rd., New Braunfels 830-624-2300 gruenerivergrill.com

THE GRISTMILL RIVER RESTAuRANT & BAR

Originally an 1878 cotton gin, this popular eatery serves local favorites on a shady patio with river views. Occasional live music. Includes a kid’s menu.

1287 Gruene Rd., New Braunfels 830-625-0684 gristmillrestaurant.com MAY/JUNE 2019

91

GIVING BACK

Junior League of San Antonio Goodwill that require months

“Each member is celebrated for her competency and commitment and not her degrees or vocation.”

- Joy McGaugh, 2018-19 President of the Junior League of San Antonio.

of planning and organization

by League volunteers.

"What sets JLSA apart from other organizations is that all members work on a level playing field. Among its

In its 95-year history, the Junior League of San Antonio started the first

membership, you will find doctors, lawyers, teachers,

Children’s Free Clinic in the city, created

soldiers, mayors, dentists,

the docent programs at the San Antonio

business owners, stay-at-

Zoo, McNay Art Museum, Witte

home mothers and women

Museum, and trained future community

representing every sector of

leaders through programs like Leader-

society."

BOARD. The organization has made

Most recently the

remarkable advances for women in San

organization, led by 2018-19

Antonio and is recognized as the city’s

president Joy McGaugh,

premier women’s volunteer-based

embarked on a 5-year

organization. Membership

Centennial Campaign in

accomplishments have extended from

partnership with Clarity Child

waitressing at The Bright Shawl through

Guidance Center. The

the 1990s to fund the League’s mission

campaign will bridge

to assisting local icon and fellow

physicians at Clarity, the

member Dela White to open Sunshine

League’s all-women

Cottage School for Deaf Children,

volunteers, and experts working together

Trailblazers in early 2020. In a January

where JLSA still funds two full

to create curriculum teaching children in

2019 press conference, the Trailblazers

scholarships awarded to deserving

first through third grades about the

each committed to a $5,000 per year

students every year.

Philanthropic partnerships have fueled Junior League of San Antonio’s growth. The women of the Junior

importance of caring for and maintaining

fundraising goal for the next five years,

their mental health.

with an overall goal for the campaign of

To deepen the impact of this initiative, JLSA will provide a grant to fund the

$500,000 raised by the JLSA's centennial anniversary in 2024.

League of San Antonio are committed to

renovation of a building on Clarity’s

promoting voluntarism while developing

campus, to be renamed the Junior

and immense respect for the trails

the potential of women and improving

League of San Antonio Education

members have blazed and can't wait to

communities through the effective action

Center. The Center will provide space to

share with the San Antonio community

JLSA looks back with deep pride,

and leadership of trained volunteers.

train the next generation of caregivers,

the paths JLSA will continue to forge for

JLSA collaborates with more than 50

boasting state of the art audio-visual

the next generation.

local nonprofits every year on projects

equipment and video streaming services

ranging from “done-in-a-day” shifts,

to help Clarity share training sessions on

where members make a significant

a nationwide scale.

collective impact on a specific task in a

Championing the fundraising goal are

matter of hours at organizations like the

twenty esteemed community leaders and

San Antonio Food Bank, to long-term

League members, called Trailblazers,

programs such as Rummage Around

who will pass the torch to next year's

92 SAWOMAN.COM

“At the Junior League, each member has the opportunity to achieve success, make mistakes and develop skills that can propel members into leadership roles.”

MAY/JUNE 2019

93

ROLE MODEL

Jessica Adams MAKING YOUR WILDEST DREAMS COME TRUE

By Dawn Robinette Photography by David Teran

hen you hear that Jessica Adams, Senior

what you’re going to get,” she explains. But parrots aren’t

Animal Care Specialist at San Antonio Zoo, is

the only birds that have given her a problem.

intimidated by parrots, it’s hard to understand how she can handle working with lions, giraffes, and rhinos on a daily basis.

“I’ve never found a parrot that liked me. And their excited face is the same as their angry face, so you never know 94 SAWOMAN.COM

"I had to work with the palm cockatoos, and they chased me out of the enclosure. Don’t laugh — they have big, macadamia nut-crushing bills. They can take a finger off like nobody’s business!”

Considering that we like our fingers and that Adams

works with much larger, more dangerous animals with no

zoo’s stars, like the new rhinos, the giraffes and the

fear, we'll take her word for it. She's been part of the zoo

family of lions. Adams is responsible for husbandry training

team for 11 years, working in a job she dreamed of since

with Cosmo, one of the zoo’s giraffes, and with Sarabi, the

she was a little girl.

zoo’s lioness. The list of animals she helps care for is long—

“One of my earliest memories is of watching a keeper at the London Zoo drag meat around an enclosure, then hang it in a tree. Then a tiger was released to find the meat. It was

as are her days.

Her typical day starts at 7 a.m., checking the animals and then cleaning the enclosures, shifting the animals to their

so cool. And I said, ‘I want to be the person who puts the

barns as necessary, then getting them back to their

chunk of meat in there!’ And I never stopped wanting to

enclosures ideally before the zoo opens. Then cleaning the

work with animals.”

barns, working on maintenance and taking time to do

In high school, career counselors didn’t know what to do

animal chats. It’s far from glamorous. “It's not playing with

with her. “They’re trying to help you be what you want to be,

the animals. It's a lot of work. It's labor intensive, and it's

and I say, I want to work with tigers. ‘Huh?’ If I’d said

every day: 120-degree heat index, we’re here; hail storms,

chemical engineering, like my dad, they could have helped

we’re here. We don’t get a day off for bad weather or for

me. But zookeeper? ‘Zoology?’ No, zookeeper.” Luckily, she

holidays. The animals have to eat.”

found a program called Zoo Animal Technology at the State University of New York at Oswego and got in.

She credits her parents for encouraging her to be herself and pursue her dreams. “My parents encouraged me to be

But Adams wouldn’t have it any other way. “People ask, ‘How can you be a zookeeper when these animals should be in the wild?’ They’re right. They should be. But they don’t understand that the wild is not safe. So, we provide them a

curious and ask questions. And they never deterred me

safe place until the wild can be safe. I’m passionate about

from being a zookeeper,” she explains.

giving these animals a future.

“In the bird department, we have Micronesian kingfishers.

never fit the mold of what society tells me “I’ve I’m supposed to be as a girl. I don’t care for the color pink, I don’t wear makeup, I don’t wear dresses. I lose jewelry more often than not. I like sports, I like getting dirty and working hard. I got a lot of criticism for that growing up. I had to figure out how to let it go and not worry about what other people think of me.

At one point, there were 100 individuals in the world, and we had 10. One day it dawned on me that I had touched a tenth of the world’s population of an animal. It’s mindboggling how small some these populations are, and we want to conserve them, teach people about them and make everyone appreciate what we have on this planet. And why it's really important to keep it on the planet. That's what inspires me and motivates me."

"I know I can make a difference. If I talk to 200 people today and just one kid goes, ‘That's cool, I didn't know

“

that' I made a difference.”

Listening to Adams talk about her job and the animals, her wonder and amazement is contagious, and you can feel

Talking about the animals come easily to Adams, who

how much she cares about them. “You never know what

admittedly shies from daily interactions outside of the zoo.

they’re going to do, or what you’ll learn. I love getting to

How can she not fear the lions but fear shopping? "Lions

interact with the animals. These animals depend on us. In a

are so much easier. They're going to come in, and they're

lot of cases, their species depend on us. These animals

going to yell at you. I never know what Jane or John Doe is

depend on us to give them the best care we can.”

going to do at the grocery store. They're much more

Considering that she landed a job doing what she loves in a field that’s not easy to break into, Adams clearly followed the right path. She joined the aviculture team,

intimidating," she laughs.

So what do you do next when you achieve your life goal at 25? “I don’t really try to plan out what’s going to happen

working with birds, at San Antonio Zoo straight out of

when. Life has a funny way of telling you what you’re going

college. At the time, the zoo had the third largest collection

to do sometimes.”

of birds in the country, “but my heart has always been with mammals,” she explains. She now works with some of the

That makes sense coming from the little girl who grew up to be exactly what she wanted.

MAY/JUNE 2019

95

GUY TO KNOW

96 SAWOMAN.COM

Graham Weston BUILDING A CITY OF SUCCESS

By Gabrielle Hernandez Photography by Al Rendon

From the simple, country life to a tech

but I think San Antonio, our Hispanic

I had an employee at Rackspace that

giant — Graham Weston is no stranger

roots, make us very family oriented and

refused to move here. He sent me an

to overcoming the odds. After years in

make us want to work together.

email saying San Antonio did not have for, a single person scene, an urban

in the Fall of 1998. Together they

How are you helping startups in our community?

core, or a tech community. I shared that

decided to venture into the world of

Nick Longo and I founded Geekdom,

email with Mayor Castro. I said this is

tech startups. Describing it as a

a high tech incubator for startups. We

the city we have to build and I need to

“landlord of the internet,” their

knew that there needed to be a high

play a role in creating it.

brainchild Rackspace grew at a

tech startup ecosystem formed. Our

real estate, he and his business partner Morris Miller met three Trinity students

the startup community he was looking

rapid rate and showed the potential

motto was that Geekdom was the

of how the internet would shape life

place to “chase your dream and find

as we know it.

your team.” It was a community of entrepreneurs, potential employees,

The company has thrived in San

lawyers, web designers, and investors:

Antonio for years, and now Weston

these are the people needed to support

aims to continue to bring growth and

a tech startup industry. The number

success to the Alamo City. He shares

one thing that stops us from chasing

his hopes for the future of his

our dreams is fear. Without fear, we

hometown and why we are all the

would be doing so much more with our

pioneers of change in San Antonio.

lives. With entrepreneurs, the fear is overwhelming; they don't have the

Does San Antonio have the potential to be a strong competitor in the tech industry?

Back when we were talking about forming Rackspace, there was really no tech industry here. San Antonio has come so far since that time. Today, the industry has grown so much, and San Antonio is a force. I think it is only a matter of time before San Antonio becomes as famous as Austin as a tech center.

What makes this city a special place for business owners and entrepreneurs?

San Antonio is a very relationship-driven place. We want to stick together and support each other. We have a business community that wants to work together, and it's based on trust. We feel like we are in it together. Some cities have a very competitive culture,

money or the skills, and they don’t know if their idea is going to work. One of the core missions at Geekdom is to create a safe place for them to go and start their idea. People can find like-minded people who support and encourage them. That has resulted in hundreds of jobs being formed by

What does that role look like for you now as you help San Antonio develop?

I left my position as CEO at Rackspace in October 2016. Since that time, I have been focused on Geekdom as well as building a tech district downtown and leading the renaissance of downtown and the strengthening of our Urban core.

So many people have complained to me that they could not get their children to move back to town. I started thinking about my own children, would they ever want to move back? Was San Antonio going to be good enough for them? I think too often, many people find that their children do not feel San Antonio has the opportunities or the lifestyle for

Geekdom companies.

them. A city that cannot retain its young

What are the challenges our city faces in becoming a force in the tech industry?

San Antonio is still maturing; it is still growing and improving every day.

Rackspace grew very rapidly, and it

People who move or come back are

people is a problem.

was tough to recruit employees to San

pioneers; they are willing to see

Antonio in the early days. If the

potential in our future. San Antonio

candidate was without children,

is rising right now and all of us who

because while the suburban San

live here are going to be shaping the

Antonio offers excellent home value,

city that it becomes. It is a really

that lifestyle did not appeal to them.

exciting time to live here. We are

They were looking for a walkable,

creating a city of the future together.

urban community that did not exist.

MAY/JUNE 2019

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ENTERTAINMENT

Aquaman - Jason Momoa Appearing Saturday, June 15

Celebrity Fan Fest

San Antonio’s Premier Pop Culture Convention

Celebrity Fan Fest is an annual pop culture fan festival that will take place this summer at the Freeman Expo Halls and Coliseum.

From June 14-16 visitors will get to interact with some of their favorite actors with special appearances from Endgame Avengers stars Jeremy Renner and Paul Bettany; Aquaman’s Jason Momoa, Amber Heard, Dolph Lundgren, and Graham McTavish; along with a slew of other stars including Fred Savage, Ray Fisher, Alexandra Shipp, Tye Sheridan, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Robert Wuhl, Clare Kramer, Walter Koeing, Joe Flanigan, Robert Picardo and Butch Patrick.

In addition to meet and greet opportunities, get the chance to listen in on panels and interact with family-friendly attractions.

The Cars as Stars exhibit showcases 100 SAWOMAN.COM

over 25 famous Hollywood cars. Get a closer look at the 1966 Batmobile and Herbie the Luv Bug. Plus, also check out the Back to the Future Delorean, a Bumblebee replica and many more.

There will be so much to explore with a Celebrity Kids Corner, Gaming and Virtual Reality Exhibitions, Artist Alley and Vendor Village. Meet hundreds of vendors, artists, cosplayers and movie poster illustrators.

Explore the PlayStation Road to Greatness, a 4,000 square foot gaming exhibit. Be one of the first to experience the latest in video games, including ones that have yet to be released.

Celebrity Fan Fest is your chance to immerse yourself in the world of movies, comics, and pop culture icons. To learn more and to purchase tickets, visit CelebrityFanFest.com

Avenger - Jeremy Renner Appearing Friday, June 14

Avenger - Paul Bettany Appearing Sunday, June 16

Plus Artists Tony Santiago Robert Bruno Mike Butkus

Coming Soon SUMMER EXHIBITS AT THE MCNAY INCLUDE

Andy Warhol: Portraits Still Relevant Decades After His Death

June 20 - September 15

Joan Collins

Mick Jagger

Debbie Harry

Prince

Andy Warhol: Portraits

Andy Warhol: Portraits

Andy Warhol: Portraits

Andy Warhol: Portraits

Experience the iconic pop art of Andy Warhol in the McNay’s newest exhibit, Andy Warhol: Portraits. The lives of those who surrounded Warhol are documented in over 120 paintings, prints, photographs, and films that depict his favorite genre: the portrait. From Joan Collins to Mick Jagger and even Warhol himself, this exhibition allows you to see his multi-dimensional approach to his work. Get a closer look into the genius be-

hind such iconic artistry by examining his personal life and studio process.

Also accompanying Warhol’s work is over a dozen fashion ensembles which illustrate the fashionable circle surrounding Warhol. The pieces were created by designers pictured in Warhol’s portraits as well as ones worn by his Texas art dealers. Enjoy a glimpse at the lives that surrounded and inspired the creative genius.

Andy Warhol: Portraits is presented alongside the McNay’s other featured exhibits, Transamerica/n: Gender, Identity, Appearance Today and Close at Hand: Contemporary Still Life.

The exhibits run from June 20- September 15.

TO THE MAJESTIC THEATRE The Best Comedy Pick of the Season A night at the theatre can lead you through a variety of emotions, from laughter to tears. The Play That Goes Wrong gives you both; it will have you crying from laughing so hard as hilarity ensues in this award-winning comedy. It is Monty Python meets Sherlock Holmes which makes for a pandemonium of a show. It is opening night of The Murder at Haversham Manor and everything that could possibly go awry...does. The show’s leading lady ends up unconscious, but the show must go on, right? And who knew one of the more difficult roles would be a corpse. Apparently playing dead isn’t as easy as it looks. Bumbling actors trip over everything from the set to their lines. The play within this play is a train wreck that will have you roaring with laughter.

By the end of the show, your stomach will be aching from all the laughing, but it will be worth the soreness.

Don’t miss your chance to see this side-splitting Broadway smash hit at the Majestic Theatre. It runs from June 18-23.

For more information visit www.majesticEmpire.com.

MAY/JUNE 2019

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MAY/JUNE 2019

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT CALENDAR It’s an entire neighborhood experience with the Blue Star Arts Complex as the anchor.

Southtownsatx.com/ first-friday

May 6 CARRIE uNDERWooD AT&T Center

First Thursday THE PEARL’S FIRST THuRSDAy NIGHT MARKET The Historic Pearl

4 – 8 pm Local vendors from the Pearl Farmers Market will now join Pearl every first Thursday evening of each month! Live music, dining and shopping will also take over Pearl, offering a chance to eat, sip and explore goods while shopping local.

The American Idol champion will serenade fans new and old with all her classic songs as well as hits from her latest album. Enjoy her strong country vocals as she stops here for her Cry Pretty Tour.

San Antonio Museum of Art

10:15 – 11 am Serene, guided meditation in the Japanese art gallery.

Cushions and stools provided. Free with admission.

SAMuseum.org

First Friday of every Month FIRST FRIDAy Blue Star Arts Complex

First Friday is San Antonio’s longest running art walk, established by local artists. It is a family friendly art walk chock full of art, vendors, gallery spaces and San Antonio’s creative eats and drinks.

104 SAWOMAN.COM

May 11 SAN ANToNIo DoNuT FEST

What do you get with donuts, coffee, mimosas and more? A pretty delicious event! The cereal bar, music, and games that the whole family will enjoy.

TobinCenter.org

Essex Modern City

May 7-26 HAMILToN

The authentic urban spirit of San Antonio comes alive with music, art, community and family.

Featuring Snoop Dogg, SA’s hottest music, street artists, specialty shops, food trucks, beer/wine/ liquor, bmx showcase.

Majestic Theatre

EssexFestival.com

MajesticEmpire.com

May 9 & 11 FAuST Tobin Center for the Performing Arts

Opera San Antonio presents a French romance in this legendary production as Faust’s pact with the devil leads him through love and tragedy.

Alamocityopera.org

May 23 Zoo LA-LA! A TASTE oF SAN ANToNIo

Tobin Center for the Performing Arts

May 11 ESSEX MuSIC & ARTS FESTIVAL

Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Tony-winning musical is making its stop in San Antonio. Don’t miss your chance to be in the room where it happens for this incredible hip hop stage production.

by The Red Hot Dance Band Orquestra Tropicana with operatic singing by Metropolitan Opera and Cuban-American Soprano Elizabeth Caballero.

OperaSA.org

Ticketmaster.com

AtPearl.com

Every Saturday MEDITATIoN IN THE JAPANESE GALLERy

The opera will be sung in French with English titles projected above the stage.

May 12 CoCINA BoTANICA San Antonio Botanical Garden

This special Cinco de Mayo celebration features “The Flags of Texas.”

Discover fresh fruits, garden vegetables, and herbs that thrive in South Texas. Join in seasonal classes to create your own culinary delights.

Sabot.org

San Antonio Zoo

May 16 - 17 CINDERELLA Tobin Center for the Performing Arts

The Children’s Ballet of San Antonio presents “Cinderella.” Experience this enchanting tale of a fairy godmother, a handsome prince, and glass slippers as told by talented young ballerinas from our community.

ChildrensBalletofSanAntonio.org

May 16 - June 9 oNCE The Public Theatre of San Antonio

This musical is emotionally captivating and takes place on the streets of Dublin. A musician and an immigrant are drawn to each other through music in this charming love story.

ThePublicSA.org

May 18 HAVANA NIGHTS Azuca’s

The Alamo City Opera is hosting Havana Nights, a seated signature Cuban dinner. Entertainment will be provided

Sip, savor, and support the zoo! Sample food from our cities premier restaurants while strolling through the animal habitats. It is the perfect night out with food, drinks and live music.

SAZoo.org

May 25 BREWS & BLooMS San Antonio Botanical Garden

It’s not your typical beer garden! Adults 21 and older can enjoy a casual evening of craft brew sampling, live music, games and more at this 14th semiannual event.

With 40 craft beers from 20 different breweries, there is something for everyone!

Sabot.org

May 26 CoCKTAIL SCAVENGER HuNT San Antonio Botanical Garden

Discover the ultimate botanical elixir. Join this self-guided hunt for ingredients throughout the garden to present to a bartender who will then create the perfect cocktail.

Sabot.org

MAY/JUNE 2019

June 1 STEVE MARTIN & MARTIN SHoRT

HEADS UP!

Majestic Theatre

These comedic legends present musical numbers and conversations about their iconic careers. In “Now You See Them, Soon You Won’t,” the two recall some of their most memorable interactions in an evening of laughs that you won’t want to miss.

Ticketmaster.com

June 5 DEREK HouGH LIVE! Tobin Center for the Performing Arts

Five, six, seven, eight!

The Emmy award-winning dancer takes the stage, joined by other talented dancers and musicians.

In his first ever solo tour, enjoy his fusion of dance and music for an unforgettable night.

DerekHough.com

June 7 - 9 TEXAS FoLKLIFE FESTIVAL UTSA Institute of Texan Cultures

Immersive cultural experience to celebrate the various cultures that make up the Lone Star State. With more than 40 cultural groups represented, you can enjoy a taste of Korean barbecue while learning to hula and listening to bluegrass.

TexanCultures.com

June 7 - 9 KINKy BooTS Majestic Theatre

With songs by Cyndi Lauper, this high-heeled hit celebrates friendship and the belief that anyone can change the world.

From a shoe factory to a glamorous catwalk, discover that the best way to fit in is to stand out.

MajesticEmpire.com

June 15-16 TASTE MEGA FESTIVAL 2019

chance to get up close and personal with your favorites.

PMXEvents.com

June 16 “WEIRD AL” yANKoVIC Majestic Theatre

He’s the biggest selling comedy recording artist in history and he is bringing his Strings Attached tour to the Majestic. With background singers and a full orchestra, it is sure to be his most elaborate show yet.

Lockwood Park / Dignowity Park

Ticketmaster.com

The only non-profit, community based health awareness benefit that highlights Music, Food, Comedy & Art and benefits local comedians, poets, brands,artists and magicians. The Taste fest bring Cancer Awareness to a festive multicultural entertainment atmosphere, focusing on fun, wealth, opiate addiction, and support for Wounded Warriors.

June 18-23 THE PLAy THAT GoES WRoNG

taste-ys.org

June 14-16 CELEBRITy FAN FEST Freeman Coliseum

This immersive entertainment and celebrity experience offers photo ops, panels and more with incredible talent. From Jason Momoa to Fred Savage, don’t miss your

Majestic Theatre

This smash comedy is a murder mystery full of mishaps and mania. Be prepared to laugh as things go from bad to disastrous. It is fun for everyone, from the audience to the actors.

MajesticEmpire.com

June 23 SToRIES I oNLy TELL My FRIENDS: LIVE! Tobin Center

Rob Lowe is taking his one-man show on the road! Take a closer look at his life of red carpets, fatherhood, and marriage.

Enjoy his wit and humor as you take a trip with him down memory lane.

TobinCenter.org

July 27 - 28

FRIDA FEST 2019 Wonderland of the Americas

Frida Kahlo, a Mexican painter, continues to be admired by so many people around the world. Her life was a unique self-creation and to this day, many of us continue to be mesmerized and inspired by her paintings, her poetry, and her fashion. To honor her spirit Que Retro Arts and Curious Twins will host a two day celebration. It's a free, family-friendly, indoor event. Free Parking & Admission. All ages welcome. Expect to experience a one of a kind community gathering, handmade artisan mercado, fashion, music, performances, & culinary traditions, with talent from all around San Antonio and Texas. Over 90 artisan vendors offering one-of-kind art, and handmade goods. Plus a screening of the "Life and Times of Frida Kahlo".

wonderlandamericas.com

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DINING

Eastside Kitchenette

Southern Comfort on the Eastside

By Meredith Kay Photography by Janet Rogers

rive any highway in San Antonio

rehab took just over a year because

guests. Everyone is welcomed warmly.

today, and you’ll see several new

absolutely everything had to be redone.

Weekdays offer their “Blue Plate

restaurants being built all over town. Our city is exploding right now,

It has a homey, farmhouse feel, and the

Specials” and run the gamut from Chili

service is friendly and attentive, making

to Enchiladas ,and Chicken Pot Pie to

and that is great for our economy, but

diners feel at home immediately.

their incredibly famous Friday Fish &

every new restaurant that puts up a sign

Eastside Kitchenette is open seven days

Chips. There are some outstanding

seems to be just another chain location.

a week. They serve lunch and dinner on

starters on the menu to choose from,

So, when I learned that Chef Jeff Wayne

Monday through Saturday, and an

and two of the favorites include the

White and his wife Jenn were finally

outstanding brunch on Saturdays and

Pimento & Bacon Hushpuppies and

going to open their own restaurant, the

Sundays, with special brunch cocktails

the Cornmeal Dusted Oysters. Always

excitement and anticipation mounted.

A true culinary power couple, Chef Jeff

and DJ Kung Fu Sound System

a lunchtime favorite is Chef Jeff’s

spinning eclectic weekend vibes to

Chicken & Dumplings. He makes it with

compliment your Huevos Rancheros.

and Jen White have recently opened

brioche dumplings, mushrooms, and English peas, and it is outstanding.

Eastside Kitchenette, just off I-35 at N.

The menu is a modern take on

Some of the most popular lunch dishes

New Braunfels. The restaurant is

Southern comfort food, and the

include their Texas-sized, absolutely

housed in an old, wooden, historic

portions are more than generous.

humongous, hang-over-the-plate

home facing the access road. Years

Lunchtime at Eastside Kitchenette

Chicken Fried Steak, served with

ago, the location was once a Mexican

brings a diverse crowd which includes

mashed potatoes and Mexican street

restaurant but has been vacant for

personnel from Fort Sam Houston,

corn, as well as the BBQ Meatloaf

many years. The project was definitely a

business professionals from downtown,

Sando, served with their Red Chili

labor of love for the Whites, and the

as well as laborers and blue-collar

Gravy on Texas Toast.

106 SAWOMAN.COM

Eastside Kitchenette will also feed your

Eastside Kitchenette has it all covered.

foodie soul for dinner when the menu

From brunch to dinner, there is

offers heartier fare along with their

something new to discover for each

signature dishes. Start with the

meal. Chef Jeff and his fiery wife Jenn

Bourbon Braised Pork Belly served

have created a place that is warm and

over Parmesan Potato Purée, or the

inviting. The patio is dog-friendly, and

Charred Octopus Tacos with house-

they will even be hosting several events

made salsa verde, apple pico and

throughout the summer, just like their

roasted lime mayo. Every condiment,

Crawfish Boil Feasts and Cigar Social

sauce, and pickle is made in house by

Dinners.

Chef Jeff and they complement their specific dish perfectly. Come hungry for

When asked why they chose this

dinner and dig into a plate of the

particular location for their first solo

delicious Dill Brined Fried Chicken, or

venture, Chef White states,

Huevos Rancheros

even the Mr. Pibb Braised Short Ribs.

You will not be disappointed.

One of my favorite things is brunch, and Eastside Kitchenette has mastered this subject beautifully. The weekend wait to get in can be daunting, but it is always

“We live in the neighborhood.

We call Dignowity Park home, and we wanted to stay in the neighborhood.We want to be your local bistro and your destination dining choice.”

well worth the time when you are rewarded with their Maple Bacon

With such a passion for serving their

Glazed Donuts filled with decadent

community and producing outstanding

pastry cream and dusted with powdered

food, I have no doubt that Eastside

sugar. Make sure that everyone in your

Kitchenette will be feeding the hearts

party orders something different so that

and the bellies of hungry San Antonians

you get a chance to sample several

for many years to come.

Wedge Salad

different plates. First and foremost, however, needs to be the Huevos Rancheros. It is eye-roll inducing and features chorizo, black beans, avocado, queso fresco, bacon and eggs served over house-made tortillas. I’m a huge fan of Huevos Rancheros, and I can honestly say that this is one of the best renditions that I’ve ever had. For the Southern palate, try the Fried Green Tomato and Crab Benny, served atop a

Kitchen Sink Bloody Mary

East Side Old Fashioned

Fried Chicken Cobb

buttermilk biscuit with soft poached eggs and Frank’s Red Hot Hollandaise.

If your tastes run more to the sweet side for brunch, then Eastside Kitchenette has you covered with their Apple Cider French Toast. The Brioche French toast is topped with cider glazed apples, candied pecans, cheddar cheese and drizzled with salted caramel. It is a decadent breakfast that will usher you perfectly toward your afternoon nap.

Chicken Fried Steak with Mashed Potatoes and Mexican Street Corn

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DINING

>>

SA EATS

SA Eats

We all know women have distinctive tastes when it comes to dining out.

So, ladies, this restaurant guide is custom tailored just for you.

For an expanded list of San Antonio Food & Dining choices, go to SAEats.com.

A Bite of Baked Goodies

fare & a variety of beignets served in a relaxed cafe with live jazz. $$ 111 Kings Ct

simple and enjoyable with the freshest bounty of the season.

Locations in Southtown and at The Pearl

EatAtNola.com

EatGoodKind.com

DuCK DoNuTS Freshly fried cake donuts topped with whatever you want!

Peanuts, Oreo crumbles, chopped bacon, sprinkles or shredded coconut…there is something for everyone! $ 11703 Huebner Rd #113

THE BREAD BoX Homemade bread will take your meal to the next level with everything made fresh on-site that same day. From sandwiches to your brunch f avorites, you will be hard-pressed to find something on the menu that isn’t your favorite. $ 555 W. Bitters Rd. #115

favorites & margaritas, plus frequent live music on the patio. $$ 17907 W IH 10 13421 San Pedro Ave ElJarro.com

CARLo’S BAKE SHoP The Cake Boss made his way to San Antonio and brought his tasty treats with him. Enjoy an Italian dinner and, if you have room for more, follow it with a cinnamon pastry cannoli. $$ 15900 La Cantera Pkwy

DuckDonuts.com

Quick and Easy

TheBreadBoxSA.com

Taco ‘Bout Tasty

CarlosBakery.com

LA PANADERIA Enjoy bread cultura at this bakery-cafe, where Mexican heritage is shared through the joy of eating. Handmade bread and pan dulce are the crowning glory of this family-owned pastry heaven. $$ 301 E Houston St 8305 Broadway St LaPanaderia.com

THE GuENTHER HouSE Art nouveau home at Pioneer Flour Mills with homey American & Tex-Mex fare, brunch & outdoor dining. $$ 205 E Guenther St GuentherHouse.com

NoLA BRuNCH & BEIGNETS Classic New Orleans brunch 108 SAWOMAN.COM

BENJIES MuNCH There is always something new to try. Their menu is about “World*Food*Craft”, comfort food from around the world.

Menu items showcase produce in season. Their food truck has gone brick and mortar. $ 218 W Bitters Rd Suite 107 BenjiesMunch.com

THE GooD KIND Comfort food has never been better for you! Offering grab & go sandwiches and smoothies as well as leisurely dining options, they make eating

ERNESTo’S RESTAuRANT Open for 36 years, Ernesto’s Restaurant serves up unique Mexican food you won’t find anywhere else in San Antonio.

With options that feature both seafood and French flair, this family-run restaurant will not disappoint. PS. Don’t skip the dessert! $$ 2775 Jackson Keller LA FoGATA Authentic Mexican food awaits.

Fresh ingredients and traditional recipes are showcased, featuring fireroasted salsa. The lush outdoor flows into the festive indoors, bringing the fiesta throughout. $$ 2427 Vance Jackson Rd LaFogata.com

LA HACIENDA SCENIC LooP Tucked away on Boerne Stage Rd, the Barrios family has opened yet another delicious Tex-Mex dining spot. A margarita and some queso can go a long way, but don’t forget the enchiladas. They also offer the perfect party space. $$ 25615 Boerne Stage Rd LaHaciendaScenicLoop.com

EL JARRo DE ARTuRo Vibrant eatery offering Mexican

CHELA’S TACoS MEXICAN RESTAuRANT Chela’s serves simple and delicious tacos. Their food tastes great and you can feel good about eating it too! $ 5231 Broadway, #117 Chelas—Tacos.com

Mid Day Munchies FLoRIo’S Established in 1980, this simple, family-owned pizzeria offers NYC-style pies plus sub

sandwiches and salads. $ 7701 Broadway

606 W Cypress St TheCove.us/

LITTLE RED BARN Bustling, Western-style steakhouse with picnic tables plus beer, wine & margaritas since 1963. $$ 1863 S Hackberry LittleRedBarnSteakhouse.com

AVoCADo CAFE & JuICE BAR This family owned and operated cafe cooks up light and healthy meals, pastries and specialty drinks that are perfect for all dietary needs and palates. $ 18771 FM 2252 AvocadoCafeSA.com

SALATA Counter-serve chain offering made-to-order salads featuring signature dressings, plus wraps & soups. $ 4 locations throughout San Antonio

MA HARPER’S CREoLE KITCHEN This creole kitchen has been in the heart of San Antonio for more than 25 years. Ma makes award-winning gumbo and cornbread from scratch! $ 1816 N New Braunfels Ave LITTLE ITALy RESTAuRANT & PIZZERIA Traditional eatery serving NYC-style pizza, pasta, entrees, beer & wine in an old-school setting. $$ 824 Afterglow St LittleItalySATX.com

Salata.com

FILES BuRGERS This small restaurant offers larger than life servings. The mom and pop burger shop offers classic hamburgers as well as nachos and chalupas! $ 543 Ceralvo St. FilesBurgers.com

Feels Like Home

BuDS SouTHERN RoTISSERIE Enjoy Southern comfort food in the heart of San Antonio. Fresh chicken and pork are the seat of the show and highlighted by your favorite sides. With slaw, cornbread, and greens, it is hard to go wrong with any combination.

Bottling Dept. Food Hall at The Pearl BudsRotisserie.com

THE CoVE Quirky kid-friendly venue with organic American fare, live music, a laundromat & car wash. $$

THE GRANARy Get a taste of barbecue paired with unique microbrews. The dinner menu features modern, seasonally driven dishes from a from-scratch kitchen. Brisket, MAY/JUNE 2019

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DINING

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SA EATS

ribs, and sausage will have your mouth watering. $$$ 602 Avenue A TheGranarySA.com

artisan Northern Italian cuisine, honoring the traditions of his homeland. $$$ 401 S Alamo St NonnaSA.com

CooKHouSE Curb your cravings with this Cajun & Creole menu that brings the flavors of New Orleans to the Alamo City.

Chef Pieter Sypesteyn translates his love for his hometown into dishes full of flavor and soul. $$$ 720 E. Mistletoe Ave. CookhouseRestaurant.com

Date Night J. PRIME STEAKHouSE Traditional American steakhouse combined with innovative recipes creates an unforgettable experience. $$$ 1401 N Loop 1604 W JPrimeSteakhouse.com

CHAMA GAuCHA BRAZILIAN STEAKHouSE Upscale all-you-can-eat churrascaria with grilled beef, pork, chicken & lamb, plus a vast salad bar. $$$ 18318 Sonterra Pl.

REBELLE A revamped menu featuring premium seafood is the crowning glory for this stylish spot located within The St. Anthony. $$$ 300 E. Travis St.

and beyond in satisfying your craving. From Pad Thai to fresh sushi, your taste buds will explode with pure bliss. $$ 22211, I-10 Access Rd. #1102 SanAntonioThaiRestaurant.com

Bites and Brews

RebelleSA.com

FREDERICK’S BISTRo Strip-mall bistro serving a rotating menu of upscale French-Vietnamese fusion eats in a cozy space. $$$ 7710 Broadway St #20 14439 NW Military Hwy #100 FredericksSA.com

SCuZZI’S ITALIAN GRILL Family-friendly eatery serving classic fare, wine & cocktails in a window-filled space with a patio. $$ 24165 West IH 10 Suite 433 4035 N Loop 1604 W #102 ScuzzisItalianRestaurant.com

Fusion and Flair

BATTALIoN Stylish spot for classic Italian plates & cocktails served in a historic, restored firehouse. $$$ 604 S Alamo St BattalionSA.com

HIGH STREET WINE Co. Modern, rustic wine bar & bottle shop with a menu of by-the-glass options paired with small bites. $$ 302 Pearl Pkwy #104 HighStreetWine.com

ChamaGaucha.com

BLISS Upscale, contemporary cuisine with a frequently changing menu with an emphasis on freshness and creativity. $$$ 926 S. Presa St. FoodIsBliss.com

NooDLE TREE Flavorful options of ramen can’t be beaten. From spicy kimchi to Taipei chicken curry, there is something for every palate. If you’re looking for an extra kick, add their fiery hot sauce Liquid Rage.

7114 UTSA Blvd. Unit 101 noodletreetx.wixsite.com

NoNNA oSTERIA Get a taste of Italy in the Fairmont Hotel. Executive Chef Luca Della Casa offers

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KIN THAI & SuSHI Serving a mix of Japanese and Thai cuisine, you will find distinct flavors that go above

THE RuSTIC Feel like you are enjoying live music in your own backyard.

This Texas driven kitchen and bar offers down-home cooking straight from local ranchers and farmers, as well as spirits from right here in the Lone Star State. $$ The Rim TheRustic.com

THE LuXuRy With a trendy outdoor space, you can take in the starlight as well as a delicious meal.

Grab a delicious Great Gatsby from their walk up kitchen and enjoy the evening while sipping on your craft brew. $ 103 E Jones Ave fb: theluxurysanantonio

MAY/JUNE 2019

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WEDDINGS

Parish Photography

Adam Swift Photography

Mr. & Mrs. Bryan Hagen (Madeline Anes) March 3, 2019

Mr. & Mrs. Nick Hillman (Hely Forrester) March 9, 2019

Allison Jeffers Wedding Photography

Allison Jeffers Wedding Photography

Mr. & Mrs. Brett Pennington (Kindall Arnst) March 9, 2019

Mr. & Mrs. Johnny Salinas (Joanne Luebano) March 22, 2019 MAY/JUNE 2019

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LOOKING BACK

1974 Remember Mr. Dunderbak’s in North Star Mall with its wide selection of deli foods available to eat on picnic tables inside the mall?

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