San Antonio Woman January/February 2017 issuu

SPECIAL SECTIONS:

AMERICAN HEART GO RED PRIVATE SCHOOL OPEN HOUSES

WOMEN IN BANKING

Susan Franklin

Caregiver Extraordinaire to Seniors and Local Arts SAWOMAN.COM

US $3.95

VALENTINE’S DAY FEATURES: SA’S MOST ROMANTIC DINING WINTER ROMANCE COUPLES HOW TO CELEBRATE WITH CHILDREN

San Antonio WOMAN 20

JANUARY/ FEBRUARY 2017

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99

14

Contributors

16

Trending

18

What’s New

30

At Home

38

Role Model

40

Fashion

43

Beauty

44

Health

48

Guys to Know

50

Mommy Matters

60

Business Woman Spotlight

72

Boomers

78

Sustainable Gardening

80

Artbeat

82

CityScene

99

Dining

104 Entertainment Calendar 106 Hill Country Guide 109 Travel 112 Women on the Move 113 Weddings

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SPECIAL SECTIONS

63 20 PROFILE Susan Franklin has a passion for her family, her business and the arts in San Antonio.

She desires for our city to be on the cutting edge of creativity with every form of art, and her passion is what took her to be a part of the team envisioning the new Tobin Center.

10 | sawoman.com

24 UP FRONT February is a time to celebrate love, so we share with readers three stories meant to inspire.

Love can occur and thrive at any age…even the winter of your life.

63 WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Meet five seasoned women in our banking industry.

Read their stories of where and how they began a path toward service-focused leadership with their careers.

53 2017 Private School Open House Directory 83 Go Red for Women

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ROMANTIC DINING Valentine’s Day and colder weather have many searching for a warm fireplace dinner.

We bring you three local venues for this type of romantic dining with incredible food as well.

San Antonio WOMAN FROM THE EDITOR Pamela Lutrell, Editor San Antonio Woman

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JANUARY/ FEBRUARY 2017 PUBLISHER J. Michael Gaffney EDITOR Pamela Lutrell ASSOCIATE EDITOR Jasmina Wellinghoff COPY EDITOR Kathryn Cocke FASHION & BEAUTY EDITOR Aquila Mendez-Valdez CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Shari Biediger, Lauren Browning, Keli Davidson, Jill Robbins, Josie Seeligson, Kay Spears, Janis Turk PHOTOGRAPHY Eber Guerrero, Kristian Jaime, Al Rendon, Janet Rogers

Happy 2017, everyone! I am not sure what happened to 2016 … it is a blur. But here we are — beginning a new, exciting year in one of the country’s most vibrant and popular cities.

I personally believe this is going to be a stellar year for San Antonio and for the women of San Antonio, who continue to make headlines on all fronts as leaders in business, arts, government, nonprofits and home. Our Profile for this issue, Susan Franklin, is one of those women whose diligent work for our local arts scene is flourishing. She is known for her participation in the design of the Tobin Center and for the development of a successful elder care business. Her sweet spirit proves intelligence and determination can come with a

GRAPHIC DESIGN Tamara Hooks, Maria Jenicek ONLINE MEDIA Raleigh Hart, Social Media Brittney Lopez, Web Designer BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT & MARKETING Cindy Jennings, Madeleine Justice ADMINISTRATION & CUSTOMER SERVICE Nancy A. Gaffney, Raleigh Hart PRINTING Shweiki Media, San Antonio, Texas

smile.

Also, this issue of our publication is dedicated to winter romance. We introduce you to couples who found true love later in life. We will show you restaurants where patrons can sit by a fireplace for a romantic, cozy meal. And we will take you on the most romantic journeys through the Hill Country and the rest of the state.

Each year I select one word as a goal for every step I take throughout the year. Last

EDITOR EMERITUS Beverly Purcell-Guerra FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION call (210) 826-5375 email: info@sawoman.com

PUBLISHED BY

year my word was PERSEVERANCE, and it turned out to be most needed as I reinvented a career. This year my word is INSPIRATION. I truly hope you will be inspired by all that is within SAN ANTONIO WOMAN magazine from the articles to the photography.

Please know we appreciate you so much and wish for you a joyous 2017!

Keep Smiling, Pamela

CORRECTIONS FROM NOVEMBER /DECEMBER ISSUE: Our beautiful cover picture with Isis Romero taken at the Loma de Vida Spa at the La Cantera Spa and Resort was photographed by Janet Rogers. We apologize to Janet for not listing her photography credit for the cover shot.

The owner of Encore for Women is Ralph Canales, and the manager is Georganne Catalani.

12 | sawoman.com

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

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CONTRIBUTORS

JILL ROBBINS Jill Robbins is a wife, mom, freelance writer and speaker. She produces a stage show that highlights live readings about motherhood called “Listen to Your Mother.” Her blog, Ripped Jeans and Bifocals, focuses on adoption, aging and parenting. Her new site, Mom it Out Loud, is scheduled to launch in the spring of 2017. Her work has been published in several online and print publications and in three anthologies. You can keep up with Jill’s often-funny, always-honest musings on Facebook and Instagram.

She joins us this month as a new contributor for Mommy Matters.

RALEIGH HART Raleigh Hart is our newest member at Pixelworks Publications. She is an Alabama native who moved to San Antonio for a new adventure. Hart is a graduate of the University of North Alabama, where she received a Bachelor’s of Science in interdisciplinary studies with an emphasis in business and fine arts. She has brought her multitasking abilities to San Antonio Woman, where she is working with social media promotion, photography,

reporting,

fact-checking,

information gathering and distribution.

14 | sawoman.com

W TRENDING

STAY CONNECTED /SanAntonioWoman We reach nearly 30,000 people and engage nearly 3,000 on our posts each week. And we are currently liked by more than 11,000 people.

SAWOMAN.COM Check out the stories and the extraordinary women making it all happen in the current issue of SAN ANTONIO WOMAN.

@SanAntonioWoman

And if you miss an issue, our

Nearly 10,000 people follow us. Do you?

website features profiles published throughout our 14-year history — that's more than 80 issues!

THIS ISSUE Susan Franklin has been a force behind Franklin Park retirement communities; as well as the Tobin Center. In this issue, we learn about her passion to see San Antonio growas a premiere destination for all types of artists and their work.

@SanAntonioWoman We just reached over 6,000 followers.

Photography by Janet Rogers.

CATCH US ON THE WEB AND THROUGH OUR SOCIAL MEDIA FOR THESE AND OTHER TRENDING STORIES

SAWomanConnect.com is a resource for connecting professional women from all over San Antonio. For more information, please call 210-826-5375.

HOT TEA MONTH

VALENTINES CHOCOLATE

LET’S RODEO

January is officially Hot Tea Month and Madhatter’s Tea House & Café in Southtown is one of the best places to warm up with a huge variety of specialty teas.

Do not forget chocolate for your Valentine. It’s easy to find new and decadent varieties at Chocollazo in the Boardwalk on Broadway.

San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo is about to be in full swing.

Events and shows from Jan. 28 through Feb. 23.

Embracing daily inspirational quotes and sharing them via our social media.

SHED HOLIDAY WEIGHT

REFRESH YOUR HOME

CLEAN EATING

Begin the new year with a plan to up your workout game.

Check out Boutique Pilates at Stone Oak Pilates.

Give your home a makeover while minding your budget.

Consider the furniture resale and consignment option.

This piece is from Home Consignment at The Rim.

The first of the year is a good time to turn over a new, healthy leaf. Just in time comes the Truckin’ Tomato — a traveling Farmer’s Market. Look for the bright red trailer in your area!

16 | sawoman.com

DID YOU KNOW? We distribute 30,000 copies of SAN ANTONIO WOMAN to nearly 500 locations throughout San Antonio and surrounding areas and to subscribers in 244 cities throughout the U.S.

W WHAT’S NEW TMI ANNOUNCES NEW HEADMASTER The Board of Governors of Texas Military Institute — the Episcopal School of Texas (TMI) has selected the Rev. Scott Brown to be the next headmaster. Brown is a familiar face to the school community as he served as chaplain of TMI from 2004-2007 and is fondly referred to as “Father Scott.” Brown is married to Kimberly, and father of Parker (13) and Christopher (11). They hope to add Angelene (6) to their family as an adopted daughter from Haiti early in 2017.

SAINT MARY’S HALL TEACHER NAMED TEACHER OF THE YEAR Saint Mary’s Hall master chair of science and Middle School earth science teacher Mary Poarch was selected as the Texas Earth Science Teachers Association (TESTA) Teacher of the Year for her outstanding contributions to earth science education. Poarch was selected from a large field of public and private school science teachers. Saint Mary’s Hall dean of academics and head of Middle School Sam Hamilton said, “We are simply thrilled for Mary on her award for excellence! She is a treasured member of the Saint Mary’s Hall family.”

SUNSHINE COTTAGE’S PARENT INFANT PROGRAM CELEBRATES 50 YEARS Many years ago, Dela White founded Sunshine Cottage as a mother’s response to her own deaf 2-year-old daughter. From this young mother’s struggles to teach her own child spoken language was born a rich tradition of working with all children who need the help learning spoken language. Dela founded her dream in 1947 in a broken-down caretaker’s cottage at Landa Library. From the modest beginnings with seven students and one teacher, she built the nonprofit into what it is today, a premier center for the development of listening and spoken language. 2017 marks the 50th anniversary of the Sunshine Cottage’s Parent Infant Program. Dela knew from personal experience the first six month’s of an infant’s life are critical for listening, speech and language development.

She also knew 50 years ago, parents are the child’s best first teacher. Children now enter the program as young as 6 weeks, and parents are coached and guided by the professionals. Please join them as they begin a year of celebrating this important milestone.

18 | sawoman.com

W PROFILE

TAKING THE ARTS TO NEW LEVELS IN SA

Susan Franklin’s Personal Touch Makes the Difference

By JASMINA WELLINGHOFF 20 | sawoman.com

Photo by Janet Rogers

including her 92-year-old mother, who lives in the luxury complex. As we tour the clubhouse, which houses the various amenities — a chapel, library, movie theater, spa, pool, fitness room, bistro and dining room — everyone there seems happy to see her and takes the opportunity to chat a bit.

One of seven Franklin Park communities in Texas, the complex is designed around a private courtyard where residents can take the air, barbecue, garden or just enjoy the gurgling of the fountain. It has apartments for independent and assisted living as well as “memory care” units for individuals with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. Franklin explains that her husband, an architect by training, was already a successful developer when he decided to build and manage upscale senior living housing, “as a natural extension of his development work.”

She got more involved in 2010 as the couple were getting ready to open the Sonterra facility. With her eye for colors, textures and space organization, she contributed to the interior design and remains involved on several fronts by overseeing the company’s brand, community outreach, philanthropic presence and first impression management. The latter is something that she has a special knack for — making residents and their relatives feel like the community is part of their family, where personal attention, warmth and comfort are part of daily life. “Our hallmark is our personal touch,” she says. “Our children have worked here. I am here very frequently, and I visit the other communities, too. That’s what sets us apart from everybody else”

“

“

Susan Franklin is known for celebrating all events, with a signature Champagne toast. Celebrating at Franklin Park in Sonterra are (L-R) Bonnie Kruegar, Mary Muscatelle, Susan Franklin, Joydean Adams, and Don Buzzard.

We are dealing with people’s lives and their families; it’s an important responsibility that you have to take seriously.

In recognition of their entrepreneurial success, the Franklins received the Ernst & Young 2014 Entrepreneur of the Year Award for Central Texas, which was followed by an even sweeter prize bestowed

S

usan Franklin is a woman of many talents, one of which is a

by their own employees. Thanks to their votes, the company was

flair for special touches that make people feel good. When I ar-

named as one of the Top Workplaces in the city in the Express-News

rive at the Franklin Park retirement community on Sonterra

surveys of local businesses in 2014 and again in 2016.

Place that she co-founded with her husband, Aubra, I can’t believe my

It is also thanks to her personal touch that the Franklin Park res-

eyes when I come face to face with a sign proclaiming “Welcome Jas-

idents get to enjoy the arts, especially music, performed by outstand-

mina Wellinghoff of San Antonio Woman magazine.” This has never

ing professional musicians. After a recent concert by Musical Bridges

happened in my entire career as a journalist.

Around the World, one man thanked the performers “for wiping the

And the lady herself is right there in the lobby to warmly welcome

dust off my soul.” She shares the feeling. “Music is the truly universal

me in person. Before we sit down to talk, she gives me a tour of the

language that brings us together. It transcends time, knows no bias.

place, introducing me along the way to staff members and residents,

It’s a balm to our souls,” she says with conviction. january/february 2017 | 21

W PROFILE

A Lifelong Arts Lover

Though she considers herself a Texan now, Franklin grew up in Panama City, Fla., where she first discovered music and dance. Young Susan started ballet school at the age of 7 and kept dancing well into adulthood. As a child, the budding performer recruited cousins to help her stage shows for the family, serving as both choreographer and dancer of ballet, tap, jazz or pantomime. At the same time, her mother regularly filled the house with classical music, which “got infused into (her) heart and life.” Even today, the slim, petite Franklin can easily be visualized as a dancer. (Her eldest daughter became a professional ballerina, but an injury forced her to abandon dancing.) Dance was also Franklin’s minor in college at Texas Tech, where she was part of the school’s dance company while pursuing a major in PR and adver-

message for different groups of people. I grew up with these two.”

tising. It was also in college that she met Aubra, to whom she has now

In addition, she hosted home concerts as part of Musical Bridges’

been married for 33 years. They have four children, the youngest of

private salon concert series with world-renowned pianists including

whom flew out of the nest just last August to attend college.

Vadym Kholodenko, the current Van Cliburn Gold Medalist, and Lilya

After years of raising children and supporting her husband, her

Zilberstein — which the Franklins still do to this day. She also con-

love for the arts and her desire to engage more with the community

tributed as a patron and organized memorable galas, including the

led her to accept an invitation to join the board of the aforemen-

first ARTS SA annual gala, which featured cellist Yo-Yo Ma. “It was

tioned Musical Bridges Around the World, a nonprofit organization

over the top, amazing. I like to bring in special elegant touches,” she

that brings musicians of different nationalities and cultures to play

recalls, smiling at the memory.

in San Antonio. That fit perfectly with Franklin’s belief in music as

Franklin’s patronage and leadership in the area of creative arts was

a universal language and her desire to elevate the appreciation and

recently recognized when she was inducted into the San Antonio

accessibility of the arts for the community. Later, she met Frank

Women’s Hall of Fame for 2016 specifically for her contributions in the

Villani, the former executive director of ARTS San Antonio, who en-

creative arts. “It was such an honor, delight and surprise,” says Franklin.

couraged her to join that nonprofit’s board. “I enjoyed working with

“What a generous validation of my work in the performing arts.”

both organizations,” says Franklin. “It was a pleasure to be a part

So it’s not surprising that when the opportunity arose to help build

of the development of both of these boards as these nonprofits grew

the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts, she embraced it wholeheart-

in prominence. I helped them elevate their brand and craft their

edly. How often does one get to be a part of something so big and sig-

22 | sawoman.com

Photo by Janet Rogers

nificant for the community, she asks rhetorically. Asked by the Build-

Building Committee and the board.

ing Committee chair Steven Q. Lee to help with the interior design of

“Being on the inaugural board gave me a great sense of fulfillment

the theater, which at that point was slow in developing, she joined a

and a sense of pride for our community, pride in what we accomplished

small Tobin team on a trip to Seattle, taking along her favorite de-

for our city,” acknowledges Franklin. “It’s wonderful to have done such

signer, Ernesto Bustamante. The group spent several days consulting

meaningful work.”

with the project architects, who, in her opinion, needed more informa-

When asked to share what drives her to contribute to so many

tion to understand San Antonio. It is largely thanks to that intervention

areas of her life with such energy, she responded with a simple yet

that we can now enjoy the elegantly sophisticated interior space that

profound statement:

we have, as well as other useful little touches throughout the building.

from fabric colors to balcony fronts. “We worked as a team,” Franklin said. “I was able to help them capture the true essence and design

“

A hobby is something you do for yourself to soothe your soul.

A passion is something that you should use to serve others.

“

A couple of months later, chairman Bruce Bugg Jr. asked her to join the board, from where she continued to keep an eye on interior design,

that resonates with San Antonio, a design that is in alignment with a style and elegance reflective of San Antonio’s community and culture.”

Looking ahead, she is considering doing additional tours now of

“Susan was invaluable,” says Lee, founder of Lee Partners Inc.

the completed and fully functioning theater, “to include more people,

“She brought taste and style to the project that the male members of

especially the millennials, in the activities at the Tobin. It’s my dream

the group couldn’t bring to the table. She kept us focused on details,

that all people in the city have access to the arts … The arts are

which was a very wise thing to do, and something I am not good at.”

transformative.”

According to Lee, Franklin was also instrumental in helping the group decide on the design of the now famous “veil” that dominates the Tobin Center building. Additionally, she co-chaired the Founders’ Network, which consisted of individuals willing to host “cultivation lunches or dinners” in combination with hard-hat tours of the construction site, in an effort to engage as many potential supporters as possible. She personally participated in dozens of tours. Last October, when the Tobin Center received the Urban Land Institute’s Global

Opposite at top: Susan Franklin is acknowledged during the grand opening of the Tobin Center on stage with City Officials, the Tobin Board of Directors and the San Antonio Symphony.

Bottom: Franklin often hosts concerts in her home, such as this one with Van Cliburn Gold Medalist, Vadym Kholodenko on Steinway B. This page: Franklin enjoys spending time with the many residents of Franklin Park. She loves to interact with each one individually, and enjoys hosting social events for the group.

Award of Excellence, it was Franklin who accepted it on behalf of the january/february 2017 | 23

W UP FRONT

WINTER ROMANCE FINDING LOVE IN LATER YEARS

By JASMINA WELLINGHOFF PHOTOGRAPHy By MARTIN WADDy

Older people may have a harder time finding a life partner, but when they do, they often create more harmonious relationships than the young. The couples we talked to for this article share their personal experiences.

24 | sawoman.com

Shirley and John

“

You mellow a lot with age; we accept each other’s imperfections and don’t sweat the small stuff.

“

Shirley and John Neither Shirley Rushing nor John Poteet was looking for a new

sunroom on a pleasant November afternoon. “To me as well,” adds

relationship when circumstances brought them together, back in

John. “I had had a personal and professional respect for Shirley for

1992. At the time, she was the chairwoman of Trinity University’s

years. We would see each other at meetings almost every year. But

department of physical education, and he worked for the Cooper In-

after I came to help her committee at Trinity, a deeper mutual appre-

stitute in Dallas, the premier research and education organization

ciation quickly grew into deep love”

devoted to healthy living practices. The two had known each other

For three years, until John retired, the pair maintained a long-dis-

as colleagues for years, so in 1992 Shirley called John to ask if he

tance San Antonio-Dallas relationship before they wed in a small cer-

could assist Trinity in the implementation of the Cooper fitness and

emony in 1995, attended only by their respective children and his

wellness program at the school.

“Then I found out there was no money in the budget for a consulting

grandkids. He was 66, she 61. Life has been good ever since. The union is very different, however, from her first one, says Shirley. “In the first

fee, so I married him!” jokes Shirley. Actually, they did not marry until

marriage, you are focused on having a family, buying a house, getting

several years later, but John did come to San Antonio to help his then

ahead in your career. All of that was behind us when we married,” she

colleague without pay.

explains. “We had no pressures. It was almost too good to be true.”

He was divorced, she a widow of eight years who had absolutely no

They have the same basic values as practicing Christians — and

plans to remarry. Her first marriage to Paul Rushing had been a happy

members of the Covenant Presbyterian Church — and have both per-

one, and she didn’t want to settle “for anything less.” But life has a

sonal and common interests. Both are into fitness, and both love trav-

way of writing unexpected scripts for us. Through visits and friendly

eling. After she retired, Shirley taught dance on cruise ships for 10

dinners, the pair soon discovered that the nature of their relationship

years, and John always helped her. They continued cruising afterwards,

was changing. “It was surprising to me that things developed as fast

eventually visiting just about every part of the globe, from Europe and

as they did,” confides Shirley as the three of us sit together in their

South America to Australia and New Zealand. Another favorite pursuit, january/february 2017 | 25

W UP FRONT

Now in their 80s, both Mr. and Mrs. Poteet are fit, healthy and, yes, optimistic. On this day, they are wearing the same Meals-on-Wheels uniforms because they just finished delivering the meals to home-bound elders. “We feel blessed to have each other and to be in good health,” says John, putting his arm around his wife’s shoulders.

Lilly and Daniel Like the Poteets, Lilly Gardner and Daniel Kobialka had a long-distance relationship for a while and also connected with each other through a work-related situation. Like Shirley, Lilly was widowed, while Daniel was recovering from a difficult divorce. Unlike the Poteets, however, they had not known each other for years.

After her first husband succumbed to which also involves traveling, is taking part in the Road Scholar Pro-

Alzheimer’s disease, Lilly felt a need to engage with new people, which

gram, which consists of week-long educational seminars “for mature

led her to become an adviser/mentor with SCORE Mentoring, an or-

adults,” as John puts it. Learning is combined with adventure and so-

ganization that provides free mentoring assistance to small busi-

cializing with people who share your interests. But they also know

nesses. At some point, Daniel’s music recording business, LiSem

how to create space for each other’s individuality within their bond.

Enterprises, was assigned to her. The two corresponded for months

When he takes off on biking trips, for instance, she finds something

before meeting in person at a nonprofit conference in San Francisco

else to focus on, often with his help.

where Daniel lived at the time. “We started courting, and one thing

“That’s important. We are not joined at the hip,” says John. ”There

led to another, and I eventually decided to move to San Antonio to

are no resentments or fights. In fact, I believe we have never raised

spend my days with Lilly,” says Daniel, now in his mid-70s. “It was not

our voices to one another. You mellow a lot with age; we accept each

an easy decision to leave San Francisco because I had a full profes-

other’s imperfections and don’t sweat the small stuff.” Shirley, who has

sional life there; I had children there. But I decided it was no longer

lost both a husband and a daughter, embraces the same view. Ordinary

good for me to stay there.”

setbacks or displeasures are simply not worth becoming aggravated.

Today they run LiSem together out of their comfortable residence

Since it’s not unusual for remarrying folks to end up with a second

in the Emerald Forest neighborhood, where Daniel, a violinist and com-

spouse who has a similar personality as the first one, I ask them if this

poser, has built a state-of-the art recording studio. With her impressive

was the case with them. Shirley takes that on. “There are similarities

background in business administration, Lilly is in charge of operations,

and some differences,” she says. “A spiritual foundation is the same;

marketing, financing and sales, while Daniel takes care of the artistic

tenderness, patriotism and a caring for others are the same. The main

side of the enterprise. What they produce is beautiful instrumental

difference is that my first husband was a workaholic. It consumed a

music. They call it “spatial” or “mood” music that allows the listener

great deal of his life. (He ran several businesses.) John is not inter-

to relax and maybe be transported into another, more spiritual state

ested in money. I do the paying of the bills. My first husband was very

of mind. The recordings include both Daniel’s own compositions as well

good with financial matters.”

as works by famous classical composers, jazz artists, Cole Porter and

John listens to her but then points out that he, too, was kind of a

others. Though you’ll recognize the pieces, the overall LiSem sound is

workaholic in his profession earlier in life even if his work did not include

more lush, more textured, deeper and more soulful than is usually the

financial risks. They settle on defining Paul Rushing as a risk taker.

case, thanks to Daniel’s multi-layered mixing and mastering method of

26 | sawoman.com

LILLY AND DANIEL

“

“

Life is a treasure, and you need to start fresh even after a loss or divorce or whatever; you have to find a way to grow.

recording. While Daniel is the experienced musician with an outstand-

to maintain harmony in the house. One of the reasons he divorced his

ing résumé, including years with the San Francisco Symphony Orches-

second wife, he explains, was because he and she had different ideas

tra, Lilly is also an accomplished amateur pianist and jazz connoisseur

about how he should spend his time. “I was not able to be creative; it

who is actually featured on some of the CDs.

was painful. There were fights, and the children saw all of that. My first

Entering the relationship, Lilly says, she had the right attitude.

love is my recording company, and Lilly understands that and is a big

“There are so many lonely older women who don’t know what to do

part of it. We have a lovely studio where I can compose, record and do

with themselves,” she explains. “Life is a treasure, and you need to

all sorts of things that I need to do for myself.”

start fresh even after a loss or divorce or whatever; you have to find

To understand each other better they even took the personality test

a way to grow. You have to fill the emptiness. That’s why after my

Please Understand Me, which showed Lilly was “an inventor” who

husband died, I joined SCORE. I met Daniel, and we are growing to-

takes risks and starts new things — which she did plenty of in her ca-

gether now… even though I told him that living with me wasn’t going

reer — while Daniel is the creative type. He gives her credit for the in-

to be easy!”

novative business ideas she brings to the table, which are necessary

Because she tends to be “pushy and poke (her) nose into everything,” it was at first difficult for her to give him the space he needed to adjust to togetherness after he had been on his own for a while. As

to survive in the rapidly changing world of music sales. For her part, she admires his talent and his music. “He is unique,” she notes.

Despite living together as spouses for eight years now, they are not

a musician, Daniel has a complicated schedule as the concertmaster

officially married. Remarriage would cause 82-year-old Lilly to lose

for the Symphony of the Hills in Kerrville, a professor at both Schreiner

the health care benefits that she is entitled to as a military widow and

University and the University of the Incarnate Word and as a com-

complicate the inheritance issue for their respective children. Early

poser/music producer. Learning to give him that space was essential

on, the pair took care of such documents as wills, insurance and other january/february 2017 | 27

W UP FRONT after signing up to the dating site, Maggie spotted an attractive guy who looked familiar. Then she remembered where she had seen him. He had been the guide who gave her Bible study group a tour of the Alpha Home, a residential rehab treatment facility for women suffering from substance abuse and addiction. But she didn’t contact him right away. What gave her pause was the memory of his honest discussion of his own youthful encounter with drugs during that Alpha Home visit. Actually, she only refers to “some issues he revealed.” It’s Blair who volunteers the specific information, rather lightheartedly. After a friend assured her that Blair was “a great guy,” the two started dating and hit it off right away.

A former United Methodist minister, Blair left the church after his divorce from his first wife because he couldn’t risk being transferred away from San Antonio, where his young son lived. In fact, he even bought a house in the Stone Oak neighborhood to remain geographically close to his former wife so that they could effectively share custody of the boy. Today, Blair is the managing director of the Children’s Bereavement Center of San Antonio. Maggie, whose career took off after her divorce, is currently the executive director of the Paseo del Rio Association.

On their first date, in July 2009, they met at El Jarro restaurant and spent three hours talking “before we even ordered dinner,” recalls Blair. “She was totally ‘smutten’ by me. Do you know what ‘smutten’ means?” he jokes. To which Maggie promptly adds while laughing, “That’s part of his charm; he’s hilarious.” Following this auspicious beginning, the pair saw each other every day for several financial papers “to keep things separate and neat.” They did, however,

months, disregarding advice from Maggie’s adult children to cool it a

have a commitment ceremony seven years ago. “We enjoy each other’s

bit. They were married in March of 2010, eight months after meeting.

company without the noose of all that stuff,” says Daniel, who has gone

Maggie was 49, Blair 44.

through two “horrific divorces.”

Though “absolutely in love,” they admit that fusing two well-estab-

Asked what they appreciate most about each other, Daniel goes

lished lives and households was not easy. Maggie, who lived in Olmos

first, pleased to share his thoughts: “I used to call her the grand lady.

Park, made a sacrifice by moving to Stone Oak to support Blair’s rela-

She lights up the room when she enters. I wanted to know what she

tionship with his son. Her house was leased and eventually sold, but

was all about, and I still do. Today I am still fascinated by how she han-

she never got adjusted to living that far away from town and the long

dles things.”

rush-hour drives. The issue was resolved when Maggie surprised her

Then, as Lilly seems to be pondering what to say, he spurs her on

husband with an announcement that she had found the compromise

with a quick “Be nice now!” After a moment, she explains that what

house while he was recovering from cancer surgery in the hospital.

she appreciates most is his gentle side: “He picks up on things other

The day he was released, she whisked him to see the new home in Cas-

men don’t. He is observant and very caring.”

tle Hills. “I was still too zonked to object,” jokes Blair. “I don’t remember signing the papers.”

Maggie and Blair Blair and Maggie Thompson’s story started with Match.com. Shortly

28 | sawoman.com

While they are happy together, Maggie admits that divorce was painful, primarily because her children lost their family unit. Even

MAGGIE AND BLAIR

though her son and daughter are now 28 and 25, respectively, she

accommodating your spouse’s needs goes a long a way toward creating

still feels sorry for them. “I had to work hard to give them the free-

harmony. For example, when Maggie’s daughter suffered serious in-

dom to navigate the new complicated family situation,” she admits.

juries in a car accident recently, Blair had to learn to give Maggie pri-

It makes things easier that their now 14-year-old stepbrother, Luke,

vacy to cry and deal with her emotions. It didn’t come naturally to him

“worships” them.

divorce is that you become more reflective and introspective, which leads you to realize that the troubles you had are not all due to the other person. A lot of it was of your own making, observes Blair.

because he wanted to help and

“

comfort her, but he respected her

She was totally ‘smutten’ by me. Do you know what ‘smutten’ means?” he jokes.

To which Maggie promptly adds while laughing, “That’s part of his charm; he’s hilarious.

“

One positive consequence of

“So the person that I need to work on is myself. I am much less critical of Maggie than I was of my first wife; more tolerant about the small things.” In addition, respecting and

needs.

What brought a new dimension to their union was, of course, Blair’s recent cancer diagnosis and treatment. “Something like that has an effect on a relationship,” says Maggie. “You

look at your spouse differently. He becomes even more precious.”

To which Blair cannot resist quipping, “How much more precious?”

january/february 2017 | 29

W AT HOME MARYMONT REDESIGN:

FOLLOWING HER OWN ADVICE

BY KELI DAVIDSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY AL RENDON

It has been nearly 20 years since interior designer Toni McAllister, of McAllister Designs, moved her family from their sprawling historic house in Monte Vista to a contemporary one in Marymont. The upkeep of the older home was overwhelming, so the more contemporary one had its advantages.

Originally, McAllister didn’t much care for the new house, which was built in the early 1970s and already dated in appearance when she acquired it. In fact, it was the sort of project that she would advise her clients not to undertake. Yet the stunning results of one of McAllister’s most challenging projects, her own personal residence, are pictured here.

She took pages from the script she tells her clients and made sure to play to the house’s strengths, while letting her own lifestyle and personality shine through. She started by creating a warm and inviting library to house the voluminous quantity of books her avid reading family possessed. Her advice to clients on libraries is that the shelves should literally be “groaning with books.” From there, she created an equally cozy breakfast room off the kitchen as a place to gather because, as McAllister advises her clients, a kitchen ends up being an entertaining area, whether you intend fhat or not.

FOYER, OPPOSITE: Antique French iron and marble console, custom chandelier by McAllister Designs, French armchairs with a custom finish

by Jim Womack, Los Angeles.

Cast urns found by the designer in Round Top.

30 | sawoman.com

The high ceilings of the main rooms afford lots of natural light, and she laid bare the windows to capture as much sunlight as she could. McAllister and her husband painstakingly painted over the outdated parquet lacquered floors and then lightened the walls of the central space to give a formerly dark house an airiness of subtle grandeur. This room previously housed a built-in bar that McAllister says was reminiscent of the one from the old television series, Dallas. As much as she disliked the looks of the 1980s “Ewing’s bar,” McAllister acknowledged that it seemed to be a favorite draw for gathering friends and family. “The old watering hole,” she laughs, so instead of removing it entirely, she replaced it with a more tasteful bar placed on a lovely French sideboard and topped with antique heirloom silver pieces. She then had a custom painting done to serve as the new watering hole’s backdrop.

“Acknowledging how we actually live is a trick for successful decorating,” she adds. McAllister’s signature style is filling a house with an eclectic mix of antiques and newer items.

This reflects her personal affinity for both. Does she miss the historic house? She laughs, looking at her beautiful surroundings: “Not anymore.”

W AT HOME FAMILY ROOM: Antique French painting, antique painted Italian armchairs, custom coffee table by McAllister Designs

32 | sawoman.com

W AT HOME

DINING ROOM: Custom wall glaze, red "Chinoiserie" dining chairs with a custom finish by Harold Wood, San Antonio

KITCHEN TABLE: Antique Swedish side chairs; Schumacher fabric on wing chairs, custom chandelier by McAllister Designs.

34 | sawoman.com

Chest with a custom finish by Jim Womack, Los Angeles, vintage pottery bowl

january/february 2017 | 35

W AT HOME

LIBRARY: Painting by Jim Stoker, Inlaid vintage Italian coffee table

POWDER ROOM: Honed Belgian blue stone countertop, custom "antique mirror,� stone arch piece for wall mount faucet

36 | sawoman.com

BAR: Antique French cabinet, Painting commissioned by McAllister Designs. This space was originally the location of a dated built-in bar piece that the designer removed, but she kept the concept.

Painting by Jan Tips Antique Italian inlaid hall table

january/february 2017 | 37

W ROLE MODEL

ROLE MODEL

AN EXPERT IN ALL THAT

SPARKLES GEMOLOGIST AMANDA MORENO

By SHARI BIEDIGER PHOTOGRAPHy By JANET ROGERS

T

he most important gems in the colored-stone market, rubies are a symbol of wealth, success and passion. They’re also a favorite of Amanda Moreno, 30, a role model for all those assets.

A face you’ll see daily at Peñaloza & Sons Jewelers in San Antonio, Moreno recently earned the industry’s most prestigious credential — a graduate gemology degree from the Gemological Institute of America — an accomplishment that required four years of study for her to learn 500 stones, inside and out, then ace a final exam by identifying 20 gems correctly.

“That course was the most fun, but the most stressful,” Moreno says.

38 | sawoman.com

“I passed that exam on May 3, 2016. Gemology was definitely harder than my bachelor’s degree, much harder.”

The Harlingen native attended Texas A&M Corpus Christi and worked in several internships before moving to San Antonio and starting her career with Peñaloza & Sons eight years ago. “I love helping customers find that special piece of jewelry that makes their eyes light up or reminds them of something special,” she says.

Peñaloza & Sons Jewelers opened on the San Antonio River Walk in 1958 and later relocated to its current location on N.W. Military Highway. Owned by Paul and Alice Peñaloza, it is a “manufacturing” jewelry

store, where customers have been coming for generations seeking services that include everything from engraving and watch repair to appraisals and custom design.

“I’ve always loved jewelry. I mean, who doesn’t?” Moreno says. “I walked into this store looking for a pair of earrings one day, and I asked if they were hiring and they were. I’ve been with them ever since.”

Soon after landing the job as a sales associate, Moreno became more curious about the stones and diamonds she worked with every day — where they came from, how they are formed, why one stone is more valuable than another. “I wanted to know all of that,” she says. And so began her four-year journey to earn the prestigious gemology degree through distance learning courses before she eventually traveled to California for required lab course work.

It’s given her the experience and knowledge she needs to accurately grade diamonds and other gemstones and provide insurance and estate appraisals. And it gives her confidence: “Instead of just telling a customer, ‘This is a blue stone,’ I can tell him what it is and how to take care of it, what the cost is and why it’s more or less than another one.

I’m just able to answer questions with more clarity.”

big pieces. But I want people with any size budget to feel comfortable walking in.”

A pair of freshwater pearl stud earrings or a sterling silver bracelet is as much in inventory at Peñaloza & Sons as a range of pieces with higher price tags, such as the fancy yellow diamond mounted in platinum.

Though Moreno herself has always had a penchant for the “king of gems,” rubies, and hopes to own one someday, her appreciation for all stones has grown since earning her gemology degree.

“I love everything, really. Every stone has its own personality,” she says.

“I love watermelon tourmaline and, of course, diamonds and pearls — they are so classic. But I love color.”

Favorite pastime in San Antonio: I enjoy working out and staying active. I like to go to the gym. I also love running or hiking at all of our beautiful parks around San Antonio.

Walking around our River Walk is really fun.

Her role models: I've always looked up to my mother as an example and role model because she is a strong woman. She has worked for Whataburger in Harlingen for 35 years and hardly ever missed a day at work. She has always strived to be the best at what she does, and she is admired and respected by her co-workers. She taught me to work hard for everything I want and never need to depend on anyone.

Mrs. Alice Peñaloza is another person I look up to. She's a very elegant and patient woman. She’s such a respected jeweler and gemologist that customers come in just to get her opinion or to help them with designing a piece of jewelry. I hope to be as successful in the same way. I've learned a lot about jewelry and the industry from her.

A personal goal: I would like to own a jewelry store someday.

Phrase she lives by: Serving customers in this way is still her favorite part of the job, especially when it comes to young clientele. “People assume we’re out of their price range when, in fact, we’re not,” Moreno says. “We do have

“God will never give you more than what you can handle.” I firmly believe that everything happens for a reason.

january/february 2017 | 39

W FASHION

BY AQUILA MENDEZ-VALDEZ FASHION AND BEAUTY EDITOR

Colder months are fashion’s favorite for many reasons, the primary being the advantage layers can bring to add a certain je ne sais quoi to any outfit. But in San Antonio, where the temperatures rarely dip below searing, you’d be hard pressed to find a girl wearing more than a breezy cardigan even in the winter months. For the sartorially savvy, however, there are still wonderful ways to pull off dressing warmly for winter, even if it is Texas-sized.

A duster is a trendy way to add drama to an outfit without adding bulk. Choose a rosy shade of pink like this TopShop number to create interest, and pair with a silk blouse and strappy heels to keep the look climate-appropriate. If a true coat still feels too heavy for you, choose a lightweight rain jacket with draped front panels for a modern touch. The olive tone of this Guess piece strikes the balance between understated and intriguing.

While outerwear can be exciting, the most liberty can be taken in the accessory department.

Splurge on seasonal items that will be versatile and create the illusion of a winter look without overheating the wearer. Panama hats are rightfully popular this season, as their structure flatters almost every head shape. Pick a neutral color like this gray wool option from Charming Charlie, and look for intricate details like the whipstitch border to add luxury.

And no matter where one stands on the issue of fur, the trend is undeniably back and in full force with faux and real options for every taste. This Pologeorgis fox fur scarf from Saks Fifth Avenue plays up the colorful options we’ve seen dancing down the runways as of late, and there’s no doubt it will make a lasting impression wherever it goes.

So on the off chance the temperatures do take a dive in San Antonio, be prepared with statement pieces and utilitarian options that will help you layer with ease. Select breathable fabrics and warm colors to remain in step with the South Texas lifestyle, yet prepared for whatever Mother Nature may throw at us. And if triple digit heat is more your style, have no fear — it is surely only a few weeks away at any given moment.

TopShop contrast panel duster coat $130, whipstitch wool Panama hat in dark grey $22, Guess jacket in olive $119, Pologeorgis fox fur scarf from Saks Fifth Avenue $276.50.

40 | sawoman.com

W FASHION CALENDAR January 1-9 Neiman Marcus Fur Caravan Fur Salon – Level Two Monday – Saturday: 10-7pm Sunday: 12-6pm 15900 La Cantera Pkwy January 5-6 Julian Gold Monique Lhuillier – Spring 2017 Collection Trunk Show 4109 McCullough Ave. January 7 Neiman Marcus Jo Malone Myrrh + Tonka Fragrance Launch Cosmetics – Level One 10am-5pm

Spring Trend Report Mariposa Restaurant 6-8pm February 16-17 Julian Gold Marisa Baratelli – Spring 2017 Collection Eveningwear Trunk Show February 22 Saks Fifth Avenue Akris Spring 2017 Trunk Show 10am-3pm Designer on Two

January 12-14 Julian Gold Lafayette 148 NY – Spring 2017 Collection Sportswear Trunk Show January 13 Saks Fifth Avenue Akris Spring 2017 Trunk Show 10am-5pm Designer on Two 7400 San Pedro Avenue #650 January 18 Neiman Marcus Dior Facial Event Cosmetics – Level One 10am-6pm January 19 Neiman Marcus Armani Spa Event Cosmetics – Level One 10am-6pm January 21 Neiman Marcus Tata Harper New Year New You Facial Event Cosmetics – Level One 11am-5pm January 26-28 Julian Gold Lourdes Chavez – Spring 2017 Collection Designer Trunk Show & Personal Appearance January 28 Neiman Marcus Guerlain Spa Event Cosmetics – Level One 11:30am-6pm February 2-3 Julian Gold Toome & Linda Platt Spring 2017 Collection Designer Trunk Show February 8 Neiman Marcus Fashion Group International

january/february 2017 | 41

W FAB FINDS

ENCORE FOR WOMEN

TEXAS DOVE HUNTERS ASSOCIATION

These timeless classics are the perfect duo for any occasion. The Chanel quilted Coco messenger bag pairs perfectly with the canvas and patent Chanel D’Orsay pump featuring the signature Camilla detail on the heel.

These are fashions that demand a second life. Encore for Women, the finest in designer retail.

Join Texas Dove Hunters Association today!

With your 2017 Standard Membership Package you get: Richardson 112 Hat, Window/Bumper Decal, Monthly e-Newsletter The Wing Shooter®, TDHA GameGuard Hunting License Holder, 2 Issues of Texas Dove Hunter Magazine per year. All for $35 per year.

Color your world beautiful with diamond and colored stone ring guards. Mix and match color for the coordinated fashion look of the season. Available in platinum, yellow or white gold at Peñaloza & Sons.

1931 N.W. Military Hwy.

900 NE Loop 410, Suite D213

2001 N.W. Military Hwy.

EncoreForWomen.com

TexasDoveHunters.com

penalozaandsons.com

210.341.0939

42 | sawoman.com

210.764.1189

PEÑALOZA & SONS

210.340.3536

BY AQUILA MENDEZ-VALDEZ FASHION AND BEAUTY EDITOR

BEAUTY W

Celebrity Jewelry Designer Tracee Nichols Adds Personal Touch to La Cantera’s New Spa Relaxation and rejuvenation have a new home in San Antonio with the opening of the Loma de Vida Spa at the La Cantera Resort. The hot spot boasts 17,000 square feet of indoor space with 15 treatment rooms, including eight massage/body rooms, three facial rooms, two couples’ suites and two Sky Lofts. The Gathering Place is a vibrant environment to recharge and reconnect, with a majestic fireplace, revolving art gallery and terrace with expansive views of land and sky that can only be found in Texas.

The aura of healing starts from the moment one walks through the doors of Loma de Vida. "The architecture and design of the spa create intentional spaces that are peaceful and comfortable as well as edgy and playful," says Maggy

Loma De Vida Pendant by Tracee Nichols

Dunphy, executive director of Spa and Wellness for Destination Hotels and La Cantera Resort. "What makes Loma de Vida unique is its emphasis on mindful living, which means being open to more than traditional spa treatments to clear the clutter in your mind caused by the overstimulation of today's supercharged world."

Indeed, a massage in one of the private cabanas followed by a soak in your very own cowboy bathtub could be the perfect highlight to a girls’ getaway or solo weekend treat. For a token of your stay, celebrity jewelry designer Tracee Nichols has also created an exclusive necklace to commemorate the opening of the spa. Featuring warm amethyst to represent the lavender fields of the Hill Country and a center diamond to represent one’s soul, Nichols wanted to symbolize the journey we each take to find peace.

“It’s spiritual here,” Nichols said. “You can tell how much time they put into creating meaning throughout the entire spa.”

Even with clients like Taylor Swift and a travel schedule that rivals the A-list celebrities she designs for, Nichols agrees Loma de Vida stands out as a favorite spot to unwind.

Loma de Vida is open to the public and offers day passes for locals who want to enjoy all the amenities of the resort.

For more information and to book an appointment, visit their website at www.destinationhotels.com/la-cantera-resort-and-spa.

january/february 2017 | 43

W HEALTH

THE PROS AND CONS OF

SEROTONIN Making Healthy Decisions About Food

By KAy SPEARS, CERTIFIED CLINICAL NUTRITIONIST

At the end of the year many women find themselves over-indulging in holiday delights that they only eat during that special time. In fact, a lot of us spend the year thinking and talking about those nostalgic family recipes that our palates are awaiting. I always say, “Enjoy … with balance and moderation.”

The average woman gains 12 to 15 pounds in the month of December from making poor decisions about holiday foods. Instead, pick your battles, and partake only of things you don’t usually get to eat.

Cookies, chocolates and cupcakes you can get every day, but Aunt Lana’s Italian Strufoli only comes once a year. This should be a yearround attitude and not just applied for the holidays.

What I have seen in the 18 years that I have been a nutritionist is that whenever January comes around, we struggle with getting back on track. Staying on track is challenging; getting back on track is like climbing out of quicksand. Throughout the coming year practice staying on track, and next holiday season will be a piece of cake (or not).

Unfortunately, staying on track, cutting back on sugars and carbs can seem nearly impossible in the beginning of a lifestyle change, and here is why: Binge or “stress” eating boosts our levels of serotonin, which is a neurotransmitter that makes us feel good and gives us a fake high.

The intake of foods full of carbohydrates and sugars stimulates insulin production, which lowers blood sugar levels. These lower blood sugar levels keep us yearning for that “fix” satisfied by more sugar (i.e., chocolate, ice cream, frappuccinos, bread, chips, etc.)

Our ammunition to combat this dilemma is more complex carbo-

44 | sawoman.com

hydrate foods, rich in tryptophan, which creates more healthy serotonin and insulin levels.

The following are foods that in combination allow your brain to produce serotonin in a healthy way by helping to get tryptophan into the brain to build serotonin without sugar-laden carbs: Serotonin-Building Foods

Healthy Carbs

(contains tryptophan)

(for balanced insulin response)

AGED WHITE CHEDDAR

+

ORGANIC BERRIES

CHERRY TOMATOES

+

RED ONION & CUCUMBER

PASTURE-FED EGGS

+

100 PERCENT WHOLE GRAIN BREAD

PLAIN GREEK YOGURT

+

WALNUTS OR ALMONDS

WILD SALMON

+

BROWN RICE, QUINOA

ALMOND BUTTER

+

APPLES OR PEARS

TURKEY BREAST

+

BAKED SWEET POTATO

W HEALTH The goal is to increase our serotonin-building foods with good carbohydrates that create balanced blood sugar. This promotes “feeling good” with a healthy lifestyle that includes more energy, a peaceful mood, better sleep, weight loss and enhanced quality of life.

Additional facts on serotonin: • Serotonin is one of the most important feel-good neurotransmitters.

• It’s been called the “happy molecule” for the role it plays on positive mood.

• Serotonin regulates mood, social behavior, libido, sleep, memory, digestion, learning and mental well-being.

• 90 percent of serotonin is made in the gut.

A healthy, balanced lifestyle is the main goal, but not always the answer all by itself.

Some women face depression, anxiety and insomnia. In my healing center we look at the underlying causes and address the long- term positive outcomes to help heal the brain.

Remember, there are patterns and connections in our whole body system, and the key is to understand the system, not the illness itself. We are all uniquely biochemically different, and there is no one-size-fits-all remedy.

46 | sawoman.com

january/february 2017 | 47

W GUYS TO KNOW

RICHARD ASTE DIRECTOR, MCNAY ART MUSEUM

By JASMINA WELLINGHOFF PHOTOGRAPHy By CANDACE SCHADDELEE

48 | sawoman.com

L

ast August, the McNay Art Museum appointed Dr. Richard Aste to serve as its new director, only the third person to hold that title since the museum opened in 1954.

Born in Lima, Peru, Aste grew up in Miami and developed an interest in the visual arts early on thanks to trips to Europe and Latin America.

Though his first college degree was in psychology, he eventually switched to art history, earning both a master’s and a Ph.D. in this discipline, the latter from the Graduate Center of the City University of New York. His curatorial experience includes several years as the associate curator of European art at the Museo de Arte de Ponce in Puerto Rico, followed by six years at the Brooklyn Museum in New York, where he first worked as curator of European art and later became the managing curator for the arts of the Americas and Europe. In his curatorial work, Aste has strived to show the historical connections between the arts of different countries and continents.

In addition to his professional expertise, what appealed to the McNay’s board was Aste’s culturally varied background, his international perspective and successful community outreach initiatives.

The Brooklyn Museum is an old, established institution with an enormous art collection.

Why did you leave to take the McNay job?

When I was 10, my mother took us to the Uffizi in Florence. That’s where I saw Botticelli’s Birth of Venus. That was my first transformative experience with a work of art. I have pursued a career in the arts be-

Three reasons: 1) You are a minority-majority city, and that is the

cause I always remembered that moment of great passion in front of

future of our country. 2) The McNay’s collection. I have known about

the Botticelli, and I was determined to feel that passion every day. (His

this collection since I was a graduate student at Hunter College study-

parents expected him to become a doctor, however. Though he tried,

ing Cubism and looking at the works of Picasso – the McNay represents

“It was not a good fit.”)

him beautifully. That encouraged me to explore the rest of the collection, and I realized the quality and the commitment to excellence of this museum is consistent throughout. It is a leader in artistic excellence. 3) My predecessor, Bill Chiego, whom I met in 2010 when we

The McNay was founded as a modern art museum.

How do you define that period and the scope of the McNay as a growing institution?

worked (on an exhibit) together. He received me with such warmth and

Our founder, Marion Koogler McNay, defined it based on her collec-

enthusiasm for the McNay that it was contagious. I left with that en-

tion, from post-Impressionism to the present, her present. She passed

thusiasm for the collection, the beautiful grounds and the facilities. So

away in 1950. We continue to expand the definition of “modern,” like

those were my three Cs – community, collection and (then) current

she did, through today. For that reason, our focus continues to be mod-

leadership. I knew that following Chiego’s leadership would be seam-

ern and contemporary art. But we also have treasures from the 16th

less because he and I speak the same language.

and 17th centuries.

One reason you were hired is the museum’s desire to reach people throughout the community.

How will you strengthen outreach?

to expand our traditional view of art history. We are a global society.

What I did in Brooklyn is what I would like to do here, too, and that’s The movements that we celebrate at this museum, from post-Impressionism trough contemporary, were and are global. We are interested

It’s about providing points of entry. A point of entry may be the

in making room in our narratives for artists who are not traditionally

language that appears on our labels and panels or the language we

represented in U.S. museums. We are not in the business of privileging

use online and on social media. That language should take into ac-

one culture at any time. We think broadly and we think inclusively. The

count every San Antonian. We need to speak with no assumptions. We

European art history is not the only art history. We would like to achieve

should not assume that everyone who comes here has been to a mu-

a more truthful representation of the past.

seum before or knows anything about art or art history, and we don’t assume that our visitors feel safe in their lives. So we remind them

What are the McNay’s strengths at present?

that this is a safe place. These are challenging times that we live in.

The core of the collection, post-Impressionism and early modern,

Some of our visitors may not even feel safe in their schools or the

is certainly one of the strengths. Also works on paper and in particular

playground. This is a safe place to be inspired, to dream, to grow and

Mexican modern prints. These are world-renowned. Our collection of

even to question.

theater arts rivals that of the Victoria and Albert Museum in London,

We will be investing in social media to reach more people. We want

and our contemporary collection, post-WWII to the present, is strong.

to let them know that museums are becoming less and less temples of

Works from the theater arts collection are always requested for loans,

art and more community centers. The core of what we do is engage

and when they are lent internationally, that’s an opportunity for the

with our visitors through the visual arts, but while you are here, you

McNay to be represented at the very high level.

can also experience our great programming and education. Also, every time we have a social event — for example our free events on second

What are some immediate goals?

Thursdays of every month — we activate the outdoor grounds, but at

Increasing accessibility. You will see a bilingual website, bilingual

the same time we give tours of the collection. Someone may come here

messaging on social media and collaborations with Hispanic Heritage

for the music or the food truck, but then they are here. That’s the

Month, Black History Month and Native American Heritage Month. And

biggest challenge — bringing them here, and it presents opportunities

you will also see more social consciousness in our work — in other

to introduce them to the museum… We are also sensitive to price as a

words, artists who are dealing with social justice and are committed

barrier to the arts. That’s why we now have free access for everyone

to advancing society through their practice. An example is Vincent

younger than 19. There’s a critical moment in your development to con-

Valdez, a gifted San Antonio painter and printmaker, who is focused on

nect with the arts. If it happens early in life, it will forever change your

raising awareness (of societal issues) through his artwork. In addition,

relationship with art and art museums.

you’ll see more exhibitions that reflect our community’s heritage be-

How did you discover art?

exhibitions. Through the art we present here, we can provide opportu-

cause visitors want to see themselves in art museum collections and My father pursued painting as a hobby, and my mother was a culture

nities for self-discovery. I’ll give you a personal example. I was born in

vulture. She was focused on educating my brother and me in world cul-

Peru but left when I was very young. I knew little about my own her-

ture. Both parents worked in the airline industry, and one of the privi-

itage. So every time I see an exhibition of global art, if there are exam-

leges was free travel. So every summer we were taken to a different

ples of Peruvian art, I take a closer look, and I learn a little more about

country, and in every city we took tours that included art museums …

my past.

Mr. Aste’s comments have been edited for publication.

january/february 2017 | 49

W MOMMY MATTERS

By JILL ROBBINS

fun ideas for celebrating

valentines day with kids When someone says “Valentine’s Day,” we think long-stemmed red roses and gazing soulfully into the eyes of our sweetheart over a romantic dinner. Roses and romance are nice, but did you know Valentine’s Day is a fun holiday to celebrate with kids? Here are four Valentine’s Day ideas for kids that go beyond exchanging cards at school:

1. Dress up your home Colored lights and inflatable snowmen at Christmas? Check. A family of Jack O’ Lanterns on the porch in October? Check. A colorful wreath adorned with ribbons and sugar skulls to let your neighbors know you are hardcore Fiesta? Check.

So why not decorate for Valentine’s Day? Get a heart-shaped foam wreath from the craft store and decorate it with flowers.

Cut hearts out of pretty paper and string them in your trees, shrubs or flower arrangements. Make a garland using pre-cut wooden hearts strung on twine. Check out Pinterest for inspiration — there’s a DIY project for every age and ability. If DIY isn’t your thing, most craft and home stores have ready-made décor that will add Valentine’s Day flair to your home.

If you’ve never decorated for Valentine’s Day, start small. Buy or make one thing this year and add to your collection in years to come. Get used to hearing “When are we putting out the Valentine’s Day decorations?” in late January because kids love to decorate, and they’ll get into the spirit of the holiday. Their enthusiasm will be contagious.

2. Make treats!

Valentine’s Day is all about confections: beautiful heart-shaped boxes of chocolates and cute little conversation hearts with “Crazy4U” stamped on them, but why not kick it up a notch? Find a Valentine’s Day treat you can enjoy making (and eating!) with your kids. You can buy heart-shaped cookie cutters just about anywhere. Dig out your favorite sugar cookie recipe and make Valentine cookies with pink frosting and sugar sprinkles.

If you want something savory, use that same cookie cutter on your sandwiches. Boring baloney and cheese becomes an extra-special lunch when it’s shaped like a heart.

If you’re more adventurous or if you’ve got the next Top Chef Junior on your hands, hop on Pinterest and check out some homemade truffle recipes. You just might start a new family tradition.

3. Talk about heart health February is also National Heart Month, so what better time to teach children about their real heart? The Texas Heart Institute’s Project Heart has fun activities for kids focused on heart anatomy and heart health. It’s never too early to start learning about heart health.

4. Say “I love you.”

Hearts and chocolates are awesome, but Valentine’s Day is about love, and you can never tell your kids you love them too many times…so say it aloud and often! Although we show love for our children in countless little ways each day, there’s no substitute for saying those three little words. You love your kids. Tell them. It’s that simple.

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jill’s favorite sugar cookie recipe 1 cup slightly softened butter 1 cup brown sugar 1/2 cup granulated white sugar 2 extra large eggs 2 teaspoons vanilla 3/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon baking powder 4 (or 4 1/2 cups) flour Cream the butter and both sugars together.

If you have any brown sugar lumps, you should crush them up or pull them out. They make weird dents in your baked cookies.

Add the eggs and the vanilla and mix thoroughly. Add the salt and baking powder and mix the dough.

there’s no substitute for saying those three little words...

Before you add the flour, let's have a little chat. Different altitudes need different amounts of flour. Differences in humidity will change the amount of flour you should add. Is there a storm coming? That changes things. Add only 3 cups to begin with. Then add additional flour 1/2 cup at a time until the dough is no longer sticky and holds together. (This happens at about 4 cups of flour for me...except in the winter time when it happens at 3 1/2 cups flour.) That's when you should stop if you are going to chill the dough, or just wait for another day to bake it. If you are going to roll it out right away, add another half cup of flour so it will be thick enough to move from rolling out surface to your baking sheet.

Bake at 350F. If you roll to 3/16" thick, bake for about 7 minutes. If you roll to 1/4" thick, bake for about 10 minutes. january/february 2017 | 51

The landscape for private schools in San Antonio has been changing rapidly over the course of the last two years. New opportunities have entered the educational market, and new revisions and advancements have happened at some of San Antonio’s established traditional schools.

Open houses are the best times for families to visit and experience the school atmosphere and meet the faculty. Because this decision is so important for a family and because the local market is experiencing many changes, SAN ANTONIO WOMAN brings readers the first ever Open House Directory.

Make sure these dates are on your visitation calendar!

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W BUSINESS WOMAN SPOTLIGHT What do you do?

I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and certified sex therapist in private practice. I am also the lead instructor for my sex therapy certification program.

Length of time at this job: I have been seeing clients since 2003 and have been working with sex therapy clients since 2006.

What is it that you like best about your job?

Helping individuals and couples to overcome seemingly hopeless relationship impasses is invigorating for me. I just love helping people to reconnect after disaster has struck either physically or emotionally.

Education/Major: I received my bachelor’s in psychology at Southwestern University in Georgetown, TX, in 2003. I received my master’s (2005) and doctoral (2011) degrees in marriage and family therapy from Nova Southeastern University in Ft. Lauderdale, FL. I became a certified sex therapist in 2006.

What career path led you to where you are today?

My high school college adviser asked me if there was anything I felt I was really a "natural" at doing. I told her I like to talk and often have friends who would come to me to share their problems. I also remember saying to her, "but that’s not a job, right?" She replied, with a knowing, “Well, actually yes, yes it is.” After that, I made a beeline for private practice in psychotherapy.

When did you know that you were in the right place in your career?

When I had clients who were returning to me to focus on new or different issues months and even years after working with them initially. That’s when I knew I was having a profoundly positive effect on their lives.

Would you encourage your children to go into the same field?

Absolutely. I secretly hope my daughter Evelyn, now 8 years old, will choose to do something similar because it really is a beautiful field to be a part of, and private practice affords many women the opportunity to share in family life as well as a rewarding career.

Who were your mentors?

I was so fortunate to attend a graduate program where so many of the greats in our field either studied or instructed. Getting excited and motivated to do great things was easy.

What person do you most admire?

I consider myself to be very fortunate to have married parents who have always supported and encouraged me to reach for the stars. But as an adult and relationship expert, I admire the teamwork they exhibit to walk through life together.

What do you enjoy doing on a day off?

Staying close to my extended family means so much to me. We are on recreational sports teams together, and we all often get together for weekly cookouts and gossip fests.

How would you describe your leadership style?

While I enjoy getting input and considering other viewpoints when I am making big decisions, as a business owner, it’s my neck on the line, so ultimately, I have to trust my gut and make sure any decisions I make are in the best interests of the company.

Dr. Viviana Coles DMFT, LMFT-S, CST, PRESIDENT TEXAS RELATIONSHIP THERAPY PLLC TEXAS SEX THERAPY INSTITUTE Photography by JANET ROGERS

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How do you find balance in your life — career, community and home life?

I often take a step back and assess my life on a weekly basis, making sure I have checked off the boxes that mean the most to me by the end of each week.

*Dr. Coles’ comments have been edited for publication.

To read more from Dr. Viviana Coles, go to sawoman.com.

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS W

WOMEN IN BANKING

DILIGENCE PROTECTS THE DOLLAR

By SHARI BIEDIGER

PHOTOGRAPHy By KRISTIAN JAIME

If there’s a defined path for women who desire a career in banking, it’s starting at an early age and working hard, at least according to the résumés of these five San Antonio women.

Not that the teller window is where they all began.The very fact that their first paying jobs weren’t in banking at all is a testament to the truth that there’s no substitute for experience when it comes to landing a job and being successful.

But these San Antonio bankers have something more than impeccable customer service skills, keen business acumen and a strong work ethic. They are women who lead and inspire, who generously support people and causes, fully embracing their role in helping build a better, stronger community.

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W WOMEN IN BUSINESS FROM GROCERY CLERK TO BANKING OFFICER Christy McCoy Executive Vice President / Chief Financial Officer Lone Star Capital Bank

First Job: Assistant in an insurance office where her mom worked.

sure accurate financial reporting, negotiating with vendors or assisting her staff with issue resolution.

Best Advice: Practice the 80/10/10 rule. Budget 80 percent of your income to cover your expenses, save 10 percent and give 10 percent.

The fluctuating economy also keeps things interesting. McCoy expects

A native of Boerne, Christy McCoy was happily working in the express

the Federal Open Market Committee may raise rates this year. “Global

lane at a grocery store during her first year of college at the University

pressures are hampering our domestic economy, making growth diffi-

of Texas at San Antonio when a local bank manager noticed her energy

cult,” she says. “Because of these pressures and other structural chal-

and enthusiasm for the job. “She asked me to come interview with her,”

lenges, I feel the economy will grow at a slow pace in 2017.”

says McCoy, who didn’t hesitate. “She hired me, and I found that I really enjoyed banking.”

At home, McCoy is mom to a son in middle school and a daughter who

That was 20 years ago. Today, as executive vice president and chief fi-

ing memories with her family before the girl goes off to college.

graduates from high school this year. She looks forward to making lastnancial officer at Lone Star Capital Bank, McCoy is responsible for managing the bank’s securities portfolio and overall liquidity position.

If she gives her any advice, it will be about seizing every opportunity

She’s in charge of budgeting and reporting as well as providing over-

or challenge, about always being willing to grow, the way she herself

sight to the bank’s BSA and compliance programs.

has done.

“I love that I am able to interact with various departments at all levels, including the board of directors,” McCoy says, adding that she’s never

“Be observant, listen and watch how the leaders around you get things

bored in her job. On a typical day, you might find her working on secu-

done, how they speak to their peers and others,” McCoy says. “And

rities transactions, combing through the general ledger in order to en-

model what you see that works.”

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First Job: Cashier at Super Kmart Best Advice: Know the difference between your needs and wants and the importance of good credit.

New to the financial services industry since joining Wells Fargo early last year as a community manager, Laura Cabanilla is anything but new to serving her community.

“I have had the privilege of working in the community and economic development space as a consultant, chief of staff to two city council members and a nonprofit leader,” Cabanilla says. “Relationship building throughout my career has been key to my success, and along the way, I have had the honor of working with talented, intelligent and intuitive individuals.”

Cabanilla describes herself as a “proud product of the South Side,” a graduate of Harlandale High School, St. Mary’s University and UTSA. In her job today, she provides oversight for Wells Fargo leadership on housing, education, economic development and financial literacy needs in San Antonio.

She heads up the

bank’s efforts in corporate initiatives and community development programs for the region.

“Forecasting, being strategic, understanding how decisions impact actions and how that affects people, businesses and the community

A TALENT FOR RELATIONSHIP BUILDING Laura Cabanilla Vice President, Community Development Wells Fargo Central Texas

has been something I have learned to take into consideration,” Cabanilla says. “There are always ripple effects to decisions we make. That

“Playing sports throughout my life has taught me how to compete, lead,

is why I am honored to be in the position I am today because I can help

the significance of time management, honesty, integrity, discipline,

affect change for the betterment of our communities and our bank.”

drive and how to be part of a team,” she says.

It’s not simply something she talks about. Cabanilla is often seen out in the community volunteering and working with various organizations throughout the year. Also a lifelong athlete, Cabanilla is taking what

“I’m excited to wake up each morning, knowing that what I have learned on the court still holds true to my job and that I work with amazing, dedicated team members at Wells Fargo,” she says.

she learned from her coaches and mentors and teaching her two young daughters to play.

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W WOMEN IN BUSINESS First Job: Cashier at Flores Grocery Best Advice: Make a budget and stick to it, but leave a little room for the unexpected.

Though working as a cashier helped a young Leticia Quintero realize how much she enjoyed working with money, the reason she chose to pursue a long career in banking goes by one name.

“I was inspired by Elva Quijano, a cashier and vice president for Plaza Bank,” Quintero says. “For the first time ever, I saw a woman in a leadership position who was strong and dedicated, not only to her job but to her employees as well.

“I said to myself, ‘That will be me someday.’”

Like Laura Cabanilla, Quintero is also a Harlandale graduate. But Quintero began her career as a commercial teller at a local bank and is now vice president and international division manager at IBC Bank, where she’s worked for

MASTERING THE RISKS AND REWARDS OF INTERNATIONAL BANKING

eight years. She works with international customers and travels

Leticia Quintero

frequently to learn more about her

Vice President and International Division Manager IBC Bank

customers and build relationships.

Quintero believes the U.S. economy continues to be strong among other countries and will start climbing gradually if the Federal Reserve be-

gins to raise rates to prevent inflation. She also expects 2017 to be the

it’s important for the International Department to do enhanced due

year she expands her department by adding staff and customers.

diligence on all prospects before opening an account.”

“I think the most challenging part of my job is risk and responsible

A mother of three and grandmother of four, Quintero now tries to in-

growth,” Quintero says. “Risk, due to money laundering issues that are

spire other young women to continue their education, work hard and

happening all over the world. It’s important that we know who our cus-

embrace their job. “If you do that,” she says, “everything else will fall

tomers are and ensure transparency of transactions. Growth, because

into place.”

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BANKING IN HER NEIGHBORHOOD Wendy Erickson Executive Vice President of Corporate Banking Frost Bank

First Job: Store clerk at The Plate & Platter

technology and business development initiatives with Frost Bank over

Best Advice: Take advantage of online resources to learn how to man-

as a community leader for the Alamo Heights market area, responsible

age your money.

for commercial banking portfolio development and management.

the last 21 years. She is currently an executive vice president serving

When Wendy Erickson gives financial advice, she does so from a posi-

“I meet new and wonderful people every day who are passionate about

tion of practice that began with her first job out of college, at General

their purpose,” she says. “The majority of my time is focused on busi-

Electric Credit earning $675 a month, and continued through the sav-

ness development with customers and prospects in all venues — from

ings and loan crisis, the economic downturn of the 1980s, and the ups

their business to school functions, including work with various com-

and downs since.

munity groups.

All were tremendous turning points in a long and successful banking

“This commitment to our communities is central to Frost’s culture and

career helping others.

core values.

I am very fortunate to work for the Frost organization

making a difference in the community, building upon the many rela“During this time (the S&L crisis), I developed working relationships

tionships I have developed through the years.”

with various legal advisors as well as with the business owners and entrepreneurs faced with devastating financial loss,” Erickson says.

Today, Erickson lives and works in the same neighborhood where she

“However, what was so rewarding is we truly were ‘workout’ officers.

grew up, near her family — including her sisters, brothers-in-law,

More times than not, we negotiated settlements that provided a win

seven nieces and nephews and their children — and a 91-year-old

for all parties, enabling the business owners to move forward and take

mother who, she says, still guides the family with a healthy dose of

the steps necessary to rebuild their business.”

humor attached to life’s wonderful lessons.

As the economy improved, Erickson, a San Antonio native and graduate

In her own life, she has learned it’s important to “take time to be a

of the University of Texas at Austin, continued to expand her banking ca-

leader and a worker bee. Both will bring value and insight to you.”

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W WOMEN IN BUSINESS

PUTTING THE CLIENT FIRST Alyssa Hartlage Senior Vice President/Commercial Real Estate Lending Broadway Bank

First Job: Bank auditor with the Texas Department of Banking.

Hartlage recognizes in banking it is always important to put the client first. “We are always trying to improve the client experience through

Best Advice: Find a mentor. This is important for any career. Identify

building relationships, listening to our clients’ needs and making it

someone you look up to, and if there is not a mentor program in your

easy to do business with us,” she said. She believes one of Broadway’s

business, do not be afraid to take the initiative by asking your mentor

strengths is as a local bank with decision makers readily available, al-

to give you some tips over coffee or lunch, or just schedule a meeting.

lowing quick response to a client’s unique needs.

I would not be where I am today without mentors.

She said, “Customer service is extremely important in banking beA Houston native, Hartlage came to San Antonio to be closer to family

cause it is a highly competitive industry with multiple channels and

after she graduated with a bachelor of business administration in fi-

devices, from online to in-person experiences. I can really set myself

nance from Texas A & M University in 2001. She would follow this with

apart through providing the right customer experience or service.

a master’s in business administration from UTSA in 2006.

That’s why Broadway is a good fit for me as a family-owned bank that goes back 75 years, cornering the market on treating the customers

“I majored in finance because I enjoyed working with numbers, and

and community right.”

there are several careers open with a finance degree,” she said. She enjoyed her first job at the Texas Department of Banking because she

Hartlage loves San Antonio as a wonderful and diverse city. “I am

worked in all aspects of banking from retail operations to bank invest-

amazed how San Antonio continues to grow, but maintain a small city

ments to management and bank loan reviews.

atmosphere and culture,” she said. She believes it is a great place for her and her husband to raise their three daughters, and also experi-

However, the first job required a lot of travel, so she decided to remain

ence cultural diversity, sports, entertainment and arts.

in the banking industry by using her experience in a local bank. “My first banking job was as an analyst in the commercial real estate de-

She is presently a volunteer for Snack Pak 4 Kids, a provider of week-

partment,” she said. “Over the years, I was able to grow and become

end food supplements to serve the needs of chronically hungry chil-

a junior lender, then a lender.”

dren. She also served on the board of Respite Care and is an active member of Commercial Real Estate for Women (CREW).

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS CALENDAR

W

January 10 NAWBO – MDRT Meeting Mastrodomenico & Buxie 12915 Jones Maltsberger Rd #502 3:30 - 5:30pm January 11 SA Women’s Chamber of Commerce New Member Mixer Location TBD 5:30 - 7pm January 11 NAFE Meeting Location TBD Check-in & Networking from 11:30 - 11:45am Lunch & Speaker from 11:45 – 12:30pm Opportunity Networking from 1 – 1:30pm January 14 Northside SA Chamber of Commerce Annual Gala General & VIP Receptions – 6pm Program, Dinner, & Dance – 7pm - 12am The Marriott Rivercenter 101 Bowie St. January 18 SA Women’s Chamber of Commerce Power Hour Luncheon Old San Francisco Steakhouse 10223 Sahara Dr. 11:15 - 1pm January 24 NAWBO – ESA Reveal Reception Cavender Audi Dealership 15447 W IH 10 5:30 - 8pm

January 26 SA Women’s Chamber of Commerce Leadership Development Program Old San Francisco Steakhouse 8am - 12pm January 26 NAWBO – WMB Luncheon Petroleum Club 8620 N New Braunfels Ave #700 11:30am - 1pm February 7 NAWBO – Member Orientation Location TBD 8:30 - 10:30am February 8 NAFE Meeting Location TBD Check-in & Networking from 11:30 - 11:45am Lunch & Speaker from 11:45 – 12:30pm Opportunity Networking from 1 – 1:30pm February 14 NAWBO – Legislative Day Austin, TX 6:30am - 6:30pm February 15 SA Women’s Chamber of Commerce Smart Women Series SeaWorld 10500 Sea World Dr. 11:30am - 1pm February 23 NAWBO – WMB Luncheon Petroleum Club 8620 N New Braunfels Ave # 700 7:30 - 9pm February 23 SA Women’s Chamber of Commerce Leadership Development Program Old San Francisco Steakhouse 8am - 12pm February 23 SA Women’s Chamber of Commerce Level 5 Leader Spotlight Old San Francisco Steakhouse 10:15 - 11:30am

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W

1

2

AROUND TOWN

3

4

5

1. Rosemary Kowalski, Carol Karotkin, Bonnie Prosser-Elder and Francine Prosser-Johnson gather for the San Antonio Women’s Chamber of Commerce (SAWCC) Constellation of Stars Awards Ceremony on Nov. 4. Kowalski was one of 15 community leaders awarded for their contributions to our city’s business scene.

2. On December 2, Amy Marie Lopez of The Schrader Group (Remax) was honored at the Greater San Antonio Builders Association (GSABA) Gala with a Presidential Citation and a top award as Associate Member of the Year.

Lopez was also inducted into the GASAB Board of Directors at this time.

3. (L-R) Adib Janhaoui, Pam Goble, Claudia Pruitt, Cece Smith, Linda Elliott enjoy the Holiday 2016 party for NAWBO-SA held at North Park Lexus on December 7.

4. (L-R) Cheryl Pyle, president of Commercial Real Estate Women of San Antonio (CREW), and Deborah Bauer, president of Drake Commercial Group, at the November CREW luncheon at the Norris Convention Center.

6

5. December 13, Commercial Real Estate Women (CREW) of San Antonio 2016 awards luncheon.

Winners included (L-R) Ellie Litwinetz of CBI Group for the Networking Award; Yesenia Dominguez of Transwestern for the CREW Leadership Award; and Kelly Rabanal of Highland Resources, Inc. for the Outstanding New Member Award. Not pictured is Connie Raub, who won the Eva Rosow Award for Excellence, the chapter’s most prominent award for the year.

6. (L-R) Jenna Saucedo-Herrera, president and CEO of the San Antonio Economic Development Foundation, interviews Paula Gold Williams, CEO of CPS Energy, as part of a special panel discussion for CREW luncheon attendees. Excellent information on advancements in our city’s energy brought everyone up to date

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W BOOMERS

BOOMERS

HOSPiTAL VOLUNTEERS FILL THEIR EMPTY NEST WITH NEW PURPOSE

By PAMELA LUTRELL

H

er husband tells the story best:

“She was

calling me three or four times a day. ‘How

are you, honey? How’s your day going? Can I do any-

thing for you?’ She obviously needed someone to care for.” Robert Emmitt’s wife, Julie, was experiencing the feelings so many women have after driving the last child off to college. The silence of the empty nest was deafening. There is only one voice and it screams, “What do I do now?”

At this time Emmitt was the senior pastor for Community Bible Church (CBC), and he encouraged her to get out of the house … go see people! One day while visiting a friend and her hospitalized child, Julie noticed a dark playroom on the floor of the ICU for children. “What happens there?” she asked an attending nurse. Previously, the playroom had been active with adult volunteers spending time with children and siblings, but recently the number of volunteers had grown so small that the playroom was often quiet.

This became Julie’s full house — a mission to turn on the lights of the playroom at North Central Baptist Hospital, 520 Madison Oak Dr., in the area known as Stone Oak. She began by volunteering long hours herself, and soon she showed up daily As a way to deal with her empty nest at home, Julie Emmitt has become a regular volunteer at North Central Baptist Hospital, where she shares her love with pediatric patients.

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W BOOMERS Below: Julie is joined by her husband, children and grandchildren at the official naming of Julie’s Play Place in North Central Baptist Hospital.

with more volunteers. When not in the playroom, she brought her smiles, laughter and hope from room to room to the patients and their families.

After several years of dedication, Julie has seen the lights of the playroom turned on every day, and it is now officially called Julie’s Play Place.

Women so often need someone or a cause to nurture, whether it is a growing business, employees, students, community politics, grandchildren, family or a volunteer organization. The empty nest should be seen as nothing but a new opportunity; however, there are statistics that reveal many women go into depression when all the chickens fly the coop. In fact, some mothers will insist the first year they need to remain free of commitments in case their children call on them for assistance. There are many excuses in the big world masking fears of rejection and doubt upon seeking employment or places to volunteer.

It takes only one step of

courage, like Julie made, in order to discover just how many needs exist.

Since her first visit to the hospital, her husband has As a pediatric volunteer, Julie is known for her costumes, games, smiles and love as she gives to the children and families faced with a hospital stay. This is a great way to fill your own empty nest, and volunteers are always needed.

retired from leadership at CBC and turned the reins over to the new senior pastor, Ed Newton. However, both Emmitts are regular assistants at the hospital and have new families who receive their care and attention every week.

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january/february 2017 | 75

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Shaunnesy Rodriguez 210.300.1112 www.yogabyshaunnesy.com

"Premier Home Health and Hospice is a Nurse Owned and Operated Agency located in San Antonio with coverage of up to a 50 mile radius. Services include: Nursing, Home Heath Aide, and Therapy Services."

SENIOR SERVICES

BOOKKEEPING & TAX SERVICES

H.U.G.S. Foundation, Inc. (Helping U Grow Strong)

We are an organization dedicated to assistance with mental health care and home placement for victims of sexual abuse and trafficking.

We understand their critical needs to feel safe and become healthy members of society once again.

KEN SMALL kensmall@thehugsfoundation.org

210-724-8631 www.thehugsfoundation.org

For additional information on resources for seniors visit:

www.SeniorSanAntonio.com

W SUSTAINABLE GARDENING

RESOLVE TO GROW YOUR OWN HEALTH FOOD

Many vegetables plus citrus thrive here

BY JOSIE SEELIGSON

For those who resolve to eat healthier or eat clean, your own garden is a great place to begin, and you will need an understanding of the healthiest plants to grow in Texas.

Most are familiar with the super food lists, but many cool-climate berries, protein-laden nuts or omega-rich fish just don’t thrive here. However, there are a lot of nutrient-dense vegetables we can grow right here in South Texas’ growing seasons, which are blissfully, if sometimes blisteringly, longer than other regions’ seasons.

In fact, there are so many Texas veggies and greens easy to grow that to narrow them down, even by health benefits, is daunting. Texas’ growing list stretches long, including asparagus, beets, carrots, broccoli, collard greens, cucumbers, green beans, peppers, spinach, squash, sugar snap peas, sweet potatoes, tomatoes and more. Health benefits cover the map so well that if you set up a buffet of Texas veggies, you’d hit every vitamin panacea.

Tomatoes are loaded with vitamin C and lycopene, great for skin and heart. Asparagus supplies bonebuilding vitamin K, folate and diuretic qualities to banish bloating. Sweet potatoes deliver more than 450 percent of your daily dose of vitamin A, needed for vision and immunity. Brussels sprouts and cauliflower are both packed with glucosinolates, great for detoxing and cancer-fighting.

Collard greens explode with vitamin A, zeaxan-

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thin and lutein for eyesight. Mustard greens muscle in vitamin K. Bok choy’s calcium strengthens bones and weakens PMS symptoms. And we all know spinach makes Popeye strong, but here’s why: One serving provides more than 500 percent of daily vitamin K for healthy bones and blood. The list of nutrients goes on, and the take-home message is not new: “Eat your veggies.”

But what’s also important to understand is how you eat these foods matters.

Dr. Julie La Barba, medical director of CHEF (Culinary Health Education for Families) at Santa Rosa Children’s Hospital, educates families on good food choices and habits. “Whatever you choose to grow,” she says, “adding just one home-grown ingredient to a meal can make a big impact. Freshly picked vegetables retain many more nutrients — not to mention better flavor — than those transported from far away and stored over time. Peak ripeness equals most nutrient-packed. The combinations of these foods can impact how much your body absorbs.“ Dr. La Barba advocates for culinary medicine, promoting freshness and quality, smart food combinations and food preparation. Cooking time (less is better) and even serving temperature can affect how many nutrients your body absorbs. The CHEF

philosophy provides many pieces of interesting health advice, such as a room-temperature watermelon conveys far more lycopene and beta carotene than a chilled watermelon. Also, eat some “good” fat with your veggies to give their nutrients a magic carpet ride to where your body needs them. For example, if you pair avocado with tomatoes, the monounsaturated fat in the avocado allows the tomatoes’ cancer-fighting lycopenes to be more “bioavailable,” (ready to be absorbed by the body) due to the way the body processes the two together.

Also, if an iron-containing food is paired with citrus, the body can absorb more iron than without the citrus. So in your dark, leafy, iron-rich garden greens like spinach salad, toss in some mandarin orange slices, or add a squeeze of lemon juice with extra virgin olive oil to release the valuable phytonutrients. You’ll also get an extra dose of antioxidizing vitamin C. “That's why fat-free salad dressing is such an unneeded product,” says Dr. La Barba. “Not

And speaking of citrus, one orange alone supplies more than 100 percent of daily vitamin C, plus calcium and folate, so don’t forget to plant a Texas citrus tree alongside your vegetable victory garden.

And, of course, throw a splash of OJ into your New Year’s Champagne to toast your resolution.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON TEXAS VEGETABLE GARDENING, CHECK OUT: Chef MD’s Big Book of Culinary Medicine,

by John La Puma, M.D.

OR WEB RESOURCES:

only is it full of fillers and tasteless, but it's a

www.dirtdoctor.com

missed opportunity, as it doesn't hold the keys

www.almanac.com/gardening/plantingdates/TX

to unlock phytonutrients.”

january/february 2017 | 79

W ARTBEAT

ARTBEAT

IT’S NEVER TOO LATE TO FOLLOW YOUR

BLISS BETSY DUDLEY LOVES TO MAKE ART

By JASMINA WELLINGHOFF PHOTOGRAPHy By JANET ROGERS

A

rtist Betsy Dudley works out of what is probably the most inviting studio that I have ever seen, and I have seen many art studios. Though there is inevitably some clutter, there is also a sense of space and peace, with abundant natural light pouring in over everything, including her airy, elegant wood sculptures and tables covered with colorful fabrics. On this particular day, she is focused on her current tapestry work, preparing for an exhibit at Cappy’s Restaurant in a couple of weeks.

Dudley’s designs are mostly drawn from memories and life experiences, she explains, as she guides me toward a wall packed with eyecatching panels, most representing nature scenes, such as birds perching on leafless branches, appropriately titled Winter Gathering; cute critters cavorting in Into the Wood; and a beachy New England scene complete with a lighthouse. But there are also images of the Madonna and St. Francis, as well as an exquisitely designed and stitched bouquet of white flowers, which the artist says she saw in a

80 | sawoman.com

dream. The piece de resistance, however is San Antonio, a 60-by-66inch hanging that took her three years to complete. The composition features just about every local landmark, from the Tower of the Americas and the Alamo to river barges and The Pearl. Though it is not for sale, it will be included in the show.

The technique she uses is often referred to as “applique tapestry” with embroidery, the basics of which she learned from the master of the craft, Martha Mood, who lived in San Antonio in her later years and died in 1972. “It’s like painting except you are painting with fabrics,” says Dudley. She starts with a background panel onto which she stitches a variety of patches to add depth and visual and textural complexity. The next step is design, which requires her to shape and cut all the elements from different fabrics and then stitch them on to create the image she wants. Upon closer examination, one can see that the appliques are further creatively embroidered to produce a range of effects, much like a painter would do with paint. “It’s a lot of work,” ad-

Betsy proudly displays her artwork at Cappys, 5011 Broadway. She says she paints with fabrics.

mits the artist, who has only recently returned to doing tapestries after a long hiatus.

Though her tapestries sell well and are often commissioned by customers, what put Dudley on the contemporary art map locally and beyond was her work with wood.

And that story is also a story of discovering one’s passion and of a life transformed by a new calling.

A Late Bloomer Though she grew up among creative women — one of whom was her grandmother, who was a substantial influence in her life — young Betsy had no idea that she had any talent. Her creative side found an outlet, eventually, in the work she did with her first husband, Bill Atwell, a co-founder of a construction company that also restored historical buildings. Over time, Betsy had three children and for years served the community as a volunteer, often in art-related projects. She has fond memories of designing the coronation gowns for the Order of the Alamo Fiesta pageant and traveling to India to research that year’s chosen theme. In her early 30s, Dudley discovered applique tapestry and decided to give it a try, producing 200 of them in a rickety, non-air-conditioned studio out in the Hill Country. With no schooling in the arts, she admits that “at that point I didn’t know what it didn’t know.”

And then at age 50, she found her true calling. Dudley and her friend, the late Linda Pace, took a sculpture class at the now-defunct San Antonio Art Institute taught by prominent sculptor Bill FitzGibbons.

That was it. No more dainty stitchery for her. The two women found themselves molding clay, welding metals, drilling cement and wood.

Dudley liked wood. “We had a lot of broken doors, wine crates and wood from fences at the ranch, so I thought, let’s see what I can do with all that wood,” she recalls. What she ended up producing for the next two and a half decades is an impressive body of work that secured her reputation as a serious and talented artist. Sleek and decidedly contemporary, the sculptures are mostly abstract or gently suggestive of familiar shapes, often intricately balanced, oddly eloquent and technically sophisticated.

Not surprisingly, it was FitzGibbons who opened the door of success by suggesting to gallerist Joan Grona to take a look at Dudley’s work.

Grona did, giving the new sculptor her first gallery show in what was one of the premier contemporary art spaces in the city. Dudley says she “was humbled” by the experience. “I loved the process of working with the wood and seeing what came out, but I never thought of myself as an artist,” she states. “My soul needed to create, but I wasn’t particularly driven to succeed and be known.” Still, she was “thrilled.”

Many other exhibits followed — at the Southwest Craft Center (now Southwest School of Art), the Blue Star Contemporary Art Center, the Parchman Stremmel Gallery, at the Sculptors’ Dominion Invitational (several times) and other places. Her stunning sculpture, Emerging, greets shoppers in the local Neiman Marcus store, while others stand in a number of churches and health care institutions around San Antonio and in other cities.

A Sense of Fulfillment When she is asked how sculpture changed her life, Dudley’s face lights up as she admits that it gave her “an incredible sense of fulfillment. When I was in the process (of working on a piece), it was magic.

Even if the process itself could be tedious at times, I had a good time anyway. Doing what you love is a way of honoring who you are.” She credits mythologist/writer Joseph Campbell for “giving her permission” to follow her bliss. “If you follow your bliss,” he famously said, “you put yourself on a kind of track that has been there all the while, waiting for you.”

With her last sculpture, Sounds of the Sea, the artist reached a longsought goal of imparting an undulating quality to the wood, reminiscent of waves or other soft folds. That’s the one that brought her the most joy, she wrote in a catalog of her work. The piece is now in a private collection in Dallas.

Though she can’t sculpt anymore due to spinal problems, tapestry work is almost as satisfying, she notes, and it has something in common with sculpture — it’s very tactile since there are also many pieces to play with in figuring out the design. Now married for 30 years to Brooke Dudley, who is very supportive of her pursuits, the artist turned 80 recently, which prompted her to reflect upon her life and consider how far she has come. While women sculptors are still a minority in the field, attitudes have changed a lot. She tells me how her father reacted when she told him about learning to weld. “He was horrified,” she says.

“He said, ‘I did not send you to college to become Rosie the Riveter.’

He couldn’t imagine me working with saws and drills. It’s not very feminine, so maybe that’s why relatively few women do it.”

Her advice to women who feel that it may be too late to start something new is simple: It’s never too late to follow your bliss.

january/february 2017 | 81

W CITYSCENE

By JASMINA WELLINGHOFF

Winter Treasures Driving up and down Fredericksburg Road south of 410, you would never suspect that the neighborhoods flanking this urban artery are positively teeming with artists’ studios and a growing number of arts venues. But over the past 10 years the area has slowly grown into a significant arts destination, thanks largely to the efforts of the artists themselves and Kellen Kee McIntyre, the executive director of the Bihl Haus Arts gallery and arts center.

Each February, Bihl Haus organizes a popular, multifaceted event called On and Off Fred Road Studio Tour that promotes the artists living and working in the area, brings people from all over San Antonio to visit the old neighborhoods and contributes to the revitalization of the Fredericksburg Road corridor. The 2017 event starts Feb. 17 with an opening party and exhibit at the gallery (2803 Fredericksburg Road), and continues through the weekend, Feb. 18-19, with a total of about 250 visual artists participating. All studio visits are free, but you have to buy the $10 catalog to know where to go and what to see. It’s well worth the expense. Handsomely produced and informative, it’s a keepsake and a handy reference book.

“It’s a wonderful event,” says McIntyre, an indefatigable arts advocate. “You get the chance to visit the artists’ personal space, meet them, talk to them, see how they work, what they collect, which books they read, the kids, the cat… Long-term relationships have developed between artists and visitors who return year after year.”

Among the participating artists are well-known names such as Danville Chadbourne, Jane Dunnewold, Ben Mata, David Zamora, Laurel Gibson, JD Morera, Kathleen Trenchard, Dora Orejel, Margaret Cook and many more who were not yet on the list at the time of this writing.

Besides Bihl Haus, other venues in the area will also host group shows, including Deco Pizzeria, the Woodlawn and Classic Theaters, Beat St. Coffee Co. and others. Poets and musicians will enliven the proceeding throughout the weekend.

I can’t think of a pleasanter way to spend a weekend afternoon and maybe go home with a new piece of original art that you just fell in love with. (www.onandofffred.org).

On Other Fronts As some of you may know, I love ballet and dance in general, so I am excited by a couple of great companies ARTS San Antonio is bring82 | sawoman.com

Artist Dora Orejel. Photo by Eric Lane.

ing to town in January. First up on Jan. 12 is Bale Folclorico da Bahia’s Sacred Heritage, which is a showcase for the exuberant Brazilian folkloric dances of African origin. According to Arts San Antonio, this group of 38 dancers is the only professional folk dance company in Brazil.

They will be followed by the Compagnie Herve Koubi on Jan. 28, an ensemble of all-male Algerian and African dancers performing an original contemporary work by Koubi, a French-Algerian choreographer. These guys will blow you away. Don’t miss them! (www.artssa.org). For something more classical, you can look forward to Ballet San Antonio’s production of Sleeping Beauty, scheduled for Feb. 17-19. (www.balletsanantonio.org).

International flavors will definitely dominate Musical Bridges Around the World’s (MBAW) fourth International Music Festival featuring musicians from Indonesia, Cuba, Argentina, Armenia, Spain and Canada. Talk about a diverse group! Exposing San Antonio audiences to music of other cultures has been the core goal of the organization since it was founded 19 years ago by Russian-born pianist Anya Grokhovski. The 2017 concerts will take place between Feb. 12 and 26 at various venues around town.

From authentic American gospel groups and Cuban-born Latin Grammy winner Gonzalo Rubalcaba to extraordinary Canadian cellist Zoe Keating and the contemporary Argentinian tango band of J.P. Jofre, the fest promises one musical treat after another. And in honor of the San Antonio Symphony’s Mozart Festival, MBAW will also present the Mozart Extravaganza, featuring arias from the composer’s best-loved operas sung by vocalists from the Houston Grand Opera Studio. (www.musicalbridges.org)

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DINING W

Discover Winter Romance DINING BY FIRELIGHT

BY LAUREN BROWNING

or at least eight months out of the year, many of us find ourselves wondering whether the witch from Lion, Witch, and The Wardrobe has cast a spell over us, but instead of perpetual winter, it feels like perpetual summer. And then the December holidays come and officially usher in our reprieve.

We rush to put on sweaters, heat up hot chocolate, and, yes, sit by a fireplace. For those of us who grew up north of 1-10, we most likely enjoyed this ritual more often, but regardless of our place of origin, who doesn’t long for a cozy fireplace when the air begins to chill? To some, a winter without a fireplace visit is

F

very much like a summer without a dip in a pool, rendering the season incomplete.

It can be a challenge to find a working fireplace in San Antonio these days, especially in a restaurant. Rest assured, they do exist, making the hunt well worth it. With the colder months upon us and Valentine’s Day in view, here are several popular restaurants offering enticing fireside options along with some warming dishes to spur on the taste of winter. Carpe diem — before the extreme heat returns.

PHOTO By WHISKEy CAKES

WHISKEY CAKES Relatively new to San Antonio, Whiskey Cakes is not new to Texas creature comforts. Birthed in Texas, it is a welcome addition to La Cantera neighbors and shoppers alike.

Unique fireside appeal: The indoor red brick fireplace with relaxing lounge seating offers an especially rewarding reprieve after long hours of shopping. The fireplace ambiance (and high-quality food experience) is so compelling, particularly when the weather is chillier, the drive for those living outside the area is well worth it.

Favorite dishes for winter: Their “farm to fork” menu is as locally sourced as possible, inspiring a menu composed of classic American favorites with creative and whimsical twists. The local goat cheese fondue, for example, is meltingly delicious. The rotisserie “farm birds” are first raised in Nixon, TX, before landing in several dishes accompanied by vegetable sides. Probably the most succulent for the winter weather is the mesquite-grilled short rib, braised in whiskey and accompanied by fresh vegetable sides.

For dessert, there is no competition; the whiskey cake is a heavenly torte surrounded by bourbon creme anglaise, spiced pecans, and whipped cream. Sharing

january/february 2017 | 99

W DINING PHOTO By WHISKEy CAKES

is highly recommended. The full bar menu features a carefully selected array of wine and specialty beers, whiskeys, bourbons, and Scotch, as well as craft cocktails featuring just-squeezed fruit juices — they call it “garden to glass.”

Valentine’s Day: Call for reservations or use opentable.com. Specify if requesting fireside dining — seating is limited.

Restaurant Details: The Shops At La Cantera, 15900 Via La Cantera #21200, San Antonio, TX 78256. Serving food: Mon - Thu, 11 AM 11 PM; Fri, 11 AM - 12 AM; Sat, 10 AM - 12 AM; Sun, 10 AM - 10 PM. (210) 236-8095. www.whiskeycakesa.com.

PAESANOS 1604 After 40 years in San Antonio, the owners of Paesanos strive to maintain tradition, yet keep their menus fresh and ever-changing. The contemporary restaurant is nestled among Texas live oaks and features a sophisticated design of warm rust and olive tones. Paesanos is perfect for a romantic evening and boasts one of the largest wine lists in town.

Unique fireplace appeal: The lounge and the sun room both have cozy fireplaces that set a mood for romance. Both fireplaces are lit most of the time unless outdoor temperatures are super hot. The staff will try to accommodate those who wish to sit by a fireplace, but cannot guarantee it. The lush outdoor patio with a koi pond is also a romantic setting.

Valentine’s Day: There is a special three-course prix fixe menu, and reservations are required. The menu includes a Caesar salad, choice Limoncello Cheesecake. $125 per couple.

Favorite dishes for winter: Of course, Shrimp Paesano is a favorite all year long!

Other winter favorites: lobster bisque, Peroni braised pot roast with mashed potatoes, center-cut beef tenderloin with truffle croquettes and balsamic glaze, lobster ravioli.

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PAESANOS PHOTO By JANET ROGERS

of entrée with wine option, Shrimp Paesano or Lemon Chicken, and

Chef Clark McDaniel relocated from Fort Worth to be executive chef over a decade ago. He created the fall/winter menu and changes it out for spring and summer.

Restaurant details: 3622 Paesanos Parkway, San Antonio, TX 78231; Open Sun-Thurs 11AM-10 PM, Fri-Sat 11 AM-11 PM. 210-493-1604. www.paesanos1604.com.

GREy MOSS INN PHOTO By JANET ROGERS

GREY MOSS INN For more than 80 years, the Grey Moss Inn Restaurant has been serving and charming diners amidst Hill Country beauty.

Unique fireside appeal: Not only one, but two fireside options woo and wow. The most captivating is on the scenic limestone patio, where the smells and sights of steaks and other cuts of delicious meats being cooked on the circular stone grill fill the air while Texas oaks sway overhead. On colder nights, however, consider dining indoors, near the cozy fireplace.

Favorite dishes for winter: For a taste of truly local fare, try the roasted Texas quail appetizer (from nearby Broken Arrow Ranch), stuffed with homemade beef chorizo. The renowned steaks are grilled over mesquite charcoal and basted with their special concoction called “witches brew.” The rib-eye “choice” is their premier steak, and the smoked prime rib (12 ounces) is another signature item — cold smoked with a special seasonings for eight hours.

Choosing a dessert will be another matter with nine decadent options, but staff members relay that their chocolate pecan pie is the favorite among regulars.

Valentine’s Day: Praised as one of San Antonio’s most romantic restaurants, they offer their regular menu as well as a la carte Valentine’s Day specials for each course. Call as soon as possible for reservations and specify if requesting a fireside option — space is limited.

Restaurant Details: 19010 Scenic Loop Road, Helotes, TX 78023. Open Mon - Sun, 5 - 10 PM. Phones answered beginning at 1 PM on weekdays, 2 PM on weekends. (210) 695-8301. www.greymossinn.com.

january/february 2017 | 101

TIME EAT to

RESTAURANT GUIDE SUSHI ZUSHI

AMERICAN

Silo

TAIPEI

1133 Austin Highway (210) 824-8686 434 N. Loop 1604 (210) 493-8989

BIGA ON THE BANKS BIRD BAKERY BLISS BOUDRO’S CAPPY’S CAPPYCCINO’S BISTRO CYPRESS GRILL ANNE MARIES’S BISTRO SAN ANTONIO CAFÉ CHEESECAKE FACTORY FEAST THE GRILL AT LEON SPRINGS GUENTHER HOUSE HOULIHAN'S

203 S. St. Mary’s 225-0722 5912 Broadway 804-2473 926 S. Presa 225-2547 314 E. Commerce 224-1313 5011 Broadway 828-9669 5003 Broadway 828-6860 170 S. Main St., #A, Boerne (830) 248-1353 555 Funston Place 826-5800 1150 S. Alamo 271-7791 7400 San Pedro 798-0769 1024 S. Alamo 354-1024 24116 IH-10 W. 698-8797 205 E. Guenther 227-1061 14601 IH-35 N. 651-4744 385 N. Loop 1604 W. 494-3371 555 E. Basse 824-0275 400 E. Josephine 224-6169 15900 La Cantera Pkwy.

877-5355 1111 S. Alamo 227-1187 300 E. Travis 227-4392 902 N.E. Loop 410 828-1470 2442 Nacogdoches 826-8303 7929 Pat Booker Rd. 653-2002 517 N. Presa 223-3297 152 E. Pecan #100 222-1849 25615 Boerne Stage Rd. 687-1818 1133 Austin Highway 824-8686 434 N. Loop 1604 483-8989 Broadway at Basse 823-3508 27315 FM 3009 (830) 980-8033 5231 Broadway 824-6000

J. ALEXANDER’S JOSEPHINE STREET KONA GRILL LIBERTY BAR MADRID ROOM MAGIC TIME MACHINE MAMA'S CAFE RAINFOREST CAFÉ RESTAURANT GWENDOLYN SCENIC LOOP CAFE SILO ELEVATED CUISINE STONE WERKS VINEYARD ZEDRIC’S

ASIAN Golden Wok 8822 Wurzbach San Antonio, TX (210) 615-8282

BIG KAHUNAS CHINA BISTRO DING HOW FORMOSA GARDENS FUJIYA GOLDEN WOK

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102 | sawoman.com

203 S. St. Mary’s 999 E. Basse 18720 Stone Oak 2211 N.W. Military 18802 Stone Oak 300 W. Bitters 126 W. Rector 9405 San Pedro 1146 Austin Highway

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733-8473 340-7944 340-7944 828-9988 615-7553 615-8282 674-2577 366-4508 366-1033 692-5262 805-8111 348-9071 615-1288 822-3253 507-1000 507-6500 979-9110 340-7808 691-3332

TASTE OF ASIA THAI LAO RESTAURANT TOKYO STEAK HOUSE TONG’S THAI

472-2900 826-8500 545-6100 366-3012 403-3316 496-6266 524-9908 341-4461 829-7345

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1150 Austin Hwy. 610 N.E. Loop 410 218 N. Cherry 111 W. Crockett 10101 I-10 W. 24152 IH-10 W. 15560 I-35 N. 10623 Westover Hills 104 Lanark Dr. 12656 West Ave.

828-2829 691-3332 271-2888 229-1491 641-1998 698-2141 653-7839 520-5552 654-8400 496-0222

CAJUN/CREOLE ACADIANA BIG EASY CAFE BOURBON STREET SEAFOOD THE COOKHOUSE PAT O’BRIEN’S

1289 S.W. Loop 410 4822 Walzem Road 2815 N. Loop 1604 720 E. Mistletoe 121 Alamo Plaza

674-0019 653-5688 545-0666 320-8211 212-8698

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555 S. Alamo 150 E. Houston 3920 Harry Wurzbach 515 Villita 226 E. Olmos 7701 Broadway 14439 N.W. Military #100 2015 N.E. Loop 410 204 E. Houston 112 College 728 S. Alamo 5148 Broadway 842 N.W. Loop 410 700 E. Sonterra Blvd.

125 E. Houston 1133 Austin Highway 209 Broadway 234 River Walk

229-1000 227-9700 821-5454 224-1976 822-0100 828-9050 888-1500 655-6171 476-8600 518-1000 224-7555 822-7673 798-4154 798-5466 227-5853 824-8686 639-3165 229-9299

HAMBURGERS BIG’Z BURGER JOINT BOBBY J’S BUCKHORN SALOON BURGER BOY CHRIS MADRID’S CHEESY JANE’S CHESTER’S HAMBURGERS

FATTY’S FUDDRUCKERS

2303 N. Loop 1604 W. 13247 Bandera Rd. 318 E. Houston St. 2323 N. St. Mary’s 1900 Blanco 4200 Broadway 1006 N.E. Loop 410 9980 IH-10 W. 16609 San Pedro 621 Pat Booker 1624 E.Commerce 115 Alamo Plaza 8602 Botts Ln.

408-2029 695-4941 247-4000 735-1955 735-3552 826-0800 805-8600 699-1222 494-3333 658-3000 299-8110 223-9944 824-6703

GOURMET BURGER GRILL LONGHORN CAFE MO MAK’S SAM’S BURGER JOINT TEXAS HAMBURGER CO TIMBO’S

18414 Hwy. 281 N. 17625 Blanco Rd. 13838 Jones Maltsberger 330 E. Grayson St. 9010 Huebner Rd. 1639 Broadway

545-3800 492-0301 481-3600 223-2830 699-1189 223-1028

ITALIAN 1203 N. Loop 1604 W. ALDINO AT THE VINEYARD 8539 Fredericksburg ALDO'S RISTORANTE BRAVO CUCINA ITALIANA 15900 La Cantera Pkwy.

CAPPARELLI’S ON MAIN 2524 N. Main CARRABBA’S ITALIAN GRILL 12507 IH-10 W. CERRONI’S PURPLE GARLIC 1017 Austin Hwy. DOUGH PIZZERIA 6989 Blanco 200 E. Grayson, #100 IL SOGNO OSTERIA LORENZO’S 8032 Fredericksburg Rd. LA FOCACCIA ITALIAN GRILL 800 S. Alamo 824 Afterglow LITTLE ITALY LUCE RISTORANTE E ENOTECA11255 Huebner LUCIANO’S 849 E. Commerce 401 South Alamo 521 River Walk MICHELINO’S MILANO RISTORANTE 11802 Wurzbach PAESANOS 555 E. Basse 111 W. Crockett Loop 1604 at N.W. Military 255 E. Basse PIATTI PIATTI EILAN 1701 La Cantera Pkwy., #7 PICCOLO’S 5703 Evers Rd. 16019 Nacogdoches POMPEII ITALIAN GRILL TRE TRATTORIA 4003 Broadway

340-0000 696-2536 877-9300 735-5757 694-4191 822-2300 979-6363 223-3900 692-9900 223-5353 349-2060 561-9700 223-0500 888-7030 223-2939 493-3611 828-5191 227-2782 493-1604 832-0300 251-3542 647-5524 946-5518 805-0333

COPA WINE BAR GREEK TO ME JERUSALEM GRILL JOHN THE GREEK MIMI & DIMI’S PAPOULI’S GRILL

7115 Blanco 2501 N. St. Mary’s 19141 Stone Oak Pkwy.

5440 Babcock Rd. 3259 Wurzbach Rd. 16602 San Pedro 7159 W US Hiwy 90 8250 Agora Pkwy., #120 255 E. Basse, #384 11224 Huebner, #201

342-2772 732-7777 495-2672 699-6688 680-8400 403-0565 674-3464 659-2244 804-1118 641-1313

MEXICAN/LATIN

El Jarro 13421 San Pedro San Antonio, TX 78216 (210) 494-5084

ÁCENAR MODERN TEX-MEX 146 E. Houston AJUÚA! CUISINE DE MEXICO 11703 Huebner ALAMO CAFÉ 10060 IH-10 W. 14250 San Pedro ALDACO'S 100 Hoefgen 20079 Stone Oak Pkwy.

AZUCA NUEVO LATINO 713 S. Alamo CASA RIO 430 E. Commerce CHILA’S TACOS 5231 Broadway, #117 BETO’S 8421 Broadway CIELITO LINDO 19141 Stone Oak Pkwy.

EL CHAPARRAL 15103 Bandera 2838 N. Loop 1604 EL MIRADOR 722 S. St. Mary’s EL MIRASOL ALTA COCINA 13489 Blanco IRON CACTUS MEXICAN GRILL200 River Walk LA FOGATA 2427 Vance Jackson LA FONDA ALAMO HEIGHTS 1633 Crownhill LA FONDA ON MAIN 2415 N. Main LA FONDA OAK HILLS 350 Northaven LA HACIENDA DE LOS BARRIOS 18747 Redland Rd. LA MARGARITA 120 Produce Row LOS BARRIOS 4223 Blanco MAMACITA’S 8030 IH-10 W.

225-1262 224-9951 822-6151 212-0566 691-8974 684-5376 402-6006 822-3797 225-6060 226-8462 223-1806 481-4100 646-8088 558-6788 223-1000 930-8070 822-9522 824-3005 332-5149

PIZZA 2920 McCullough BARBARO BRAZA BRAVA PIZZERIA 7959 Broadway CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN 11745 IH-10 W. 255 E. Basse Rd. FLORIO’S PIZZA 7701 Broadway 330 E. Basse, #101 GRIMALDI’S PIZZA GUILLERMO’S 618 McCullough MISS ELLIE’S 903 E. Bitters Rd 5146 Broadway SORRENTO TRILOGY PIZZA BISTRO 19141 Stone Oak Pkwy.

VOLARE GOURMET PIZZA 5054 Broadway

320-2261 320-2100 699-4275 424-2014 805-8646 832-8288 223-5587 499-1258 824-0055 404-1818 828-3354

SEAFOOD

MEDITERRANEAN DEMO’S

MI TIERRA CAFE AND BAKERY 218 Produce Row ORIGINAL MEXICAN 528 River Walk PALOMA BLANCA 5800 Broadway 215 Losoya PALOMA RIVER WALK 10501 IH-10 W. PAPPASITO’S CANTINA PERICO’S BAR AND GRILL 10820 Bandera 1439 E. Sonterra Blvd.

3810 Broadway PICANTE GRILL PICO DE GALLO 111 S. Leona 421 E. Commerce RIO RIO CANTINA 910 S. Alamo ROSARIO’S ROSARIO’S NORTH 7915 San Pedro SALSALITO’S 14535 Nacogdoches 11523 Bandera SAZO’S LATIN GRILL 101 Bowie SOLUNA COCINA MEXICANA 7959 Broadway 145 E. Hildebrand TACO TACO TOMATILLOS CANTINA 3210 Broadway URBAN TACO 290 E. Basse, #105

FISH CITY GRILL FUSION SEAFOOD, STEAK LANDRY’S SEAFOOD PAPPADEAUX SEAFOOD OSTRA ON THE RIVER SILO TERRACE OYSTER BAR STARFISH WILDFISH SEAFOOD GRILLE

18130 Hwy. 281 N. 11703 Huebner Road 517 N. Presa 76 N.E. Loop 410 212 W. Crockett 22211 IH-10 West 709 S. Alamo 1834 N.W. Loop 1604

495-3474 694-4201 527-1845 340-7143 396-5817 698-2002 375-4423 493-1600

SOUTHWESTERN CALIZA GRILL CANYON CAFE FRANCESCA’S AT SUNSET ORO RESTAURANT AND BAR

420 W. Market 225 E. Basse 16641 La Cantera Pkwy.

705 E. Houston

224-6500 225-0722 558-6500 225-5100

STEAKS 222-2362 877-0600 691-8827 495-2233 222-0561 494-0561 225-5550 225-6718 753-1040 930-9393 545-6965 695-8302 490-8302 225-9444 479-8765 224-9835 340-1337 824-4231 733-0621 342-8981 497-8000 227-7140 732-6017 341-5424

Chama Gaucha 18318 Sonterra Place San Antonio, TX 78258 (210) 564-9400 ANTLERS LODGE THE BARN DOOR BOLO’S ROTISSERIE GRILLE FLEMING’S GREY MOSS INN KIRBY’S STEAKHOUSE LITTLE RHEIN STEAKHOUSE MORTON’S STEAKHOUSE MYRON’S STEAKHOUSE J. PRIME STEAKHOUSE THE PALM PERRY’S STEAKHOUSE RUTH'S CHRIS

9800 Hyatt Resort Dr. 8400 N. New Braunfels 9821 Colonnade 255 E. Basse Rd. 10901 Scenic Loop 123 N. Loop 1604 E. 231 S. Alamo 849 E. Commerce 10003 N.W. Military 1401 N. Loop 1604 W. 233 E. Houston 15900 La Cantera Pkwy.

7720 Jones Maltsberger 600 E. Market Street

520-4001 824-0116 691-8888 824-9463 695-8301 404-2221 225-1212 228-0700 493-3031 764-1604 226-7256 558-6161 821-5051 227-8847

ENHANCE YOUR LISTING!

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Calendar

W

ART // MUSIC // FILM // THEATER // DANCE // CHARITY // OUTDOORS Thru February 5

February 15 ADAM ANT The Majestic Theatre

LIVING AND COLLECTING MEXICO The McNay An extremely important collection of Mexican prints from Susan Toomey Frost. The works of artists who were members of the Taller de Gráfica Popular, the collaborative print workshop founded in Mexico City in 1937. The collection also has nearly every lithograph by Diego Rivera, David Alfaro Siqueiros, and José Clemente Orozco. www.mcnayart.org.

Thru January 8

JOHN FRASER The McNay This exhibition surveys a range of John Fraser’s exquisitely crafted objects, drawn from the McNay’s collection, the artist’s studio, and select museum collections. Fraser makes quietly compelling, intellectually focused works, taking the form of three-dimensional sculpture or two-dimensional collage, or straddling between the two. www.mcnayart.org.

Thru January 15

TELLING TALES CONTEMPORARY NARRATIVE PHOTOGRAPHY The McNay Art Museum A survey of work by artists who record stories through pictures, whether real or imagined. Organized by the McNay’s Chief Curator and Curator of Contemporary Art, René Paul Barilleaux, the exhibition includes fifty photographs from the late 1970s to the present by ground-breaking photographers. www.mcnayart.org.

Thru May 29th

TEXAS ART OF EARLY DAYS The Witte Museum Visit the Witte Museum’s renowned Texas Art Collection.

Explore works from 19th and 20th century painters, folk artists and native artists that have been purchased for the permanent collection. www.wittemuseum.org.

January 5

THE RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS The AT& T Center, 7pm The Getaway Tour kicks off January 5th,right here in San Antonio, and will crisscross its way across North America. Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue will provide support for all dates. In addition, Jack Irons will join the tour for the January dates. Every ticket purchased includes a choice of a standard physical or digital copy of The Getaway. www.attcenter.com

January 7

THE SAN ANTONIO COFFEE FESTIVAL LaVillita Historic Arts Village, 10am- 5pm Specialty coffee tastings, an extraordinary lineup of talented local musicians, a mimi art museum, kids activities and coffeecentric art activities. www.sanantoniocoffeefestival.com

January 8 The Tobin Center, 7pm

BILL ENGVALL Grammy nominated, multi-platinum selling recording artist Bill Engvall brings his homespun humor to The Tobin Center as one of the top comedians in the country. Bill joined Jeff Foxworthy and Larry the Cable Guy in the enor-

mously successful Blue Collar Comedy concert films, which sold over nine million copies and received a Grammy nomination. www.tobincenter.org

January 11 - 15

THE SAN ANTONIO COCKTAIL CONFERENCE Venues and times vary Five days of parties, seminars, tastings and craft cocktails.

Now in its sixth year, this cocktail festival brings together top bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts for educational seminars, guided tastings and cocktail parties. www.sanantoniococktailconference.com

January 13

CHUBBY CHECKER The Brauntex Theater, 7:30pm The Brauntex theater proudly presents Chubby Checker and the Wildcats as they celebrate 55 years of the Twist! www.brauntex.org

January 16,

MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. MARCH 3501 Martin Luther King Drive, 10am March begins at Martin Luther King, Jr. Academy, 3501 Martin Luther King Drive, and ends at Pittman Sullivan Park, 1101 Iowa St. Commemorative Program immediately follows the march. www.sanantiongov/mlk

( EDITOR’S PICK )

FARMER’S MARKET A neighborhood farmer's market located in the Alamo Heights area, every Sunday from 10am to 2pm at the Carousel Court Shopping Center.

1800 Nacogdoches Rd 78209.Rain or Shine. www.78209farmersmarket.com

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FOR MORE ON SAN ANTONIO ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT VISIT WWW.SAARTS.COM

JAN/FEB

2017

ART // MUSIC // FILM // THEATER // DANCE // CHARITY // OUTDOORS reissue (Sony Legacy UK) and North American tour. Adam will play the classic album in its entirety, and in sequence, i ncluding the first-ever live performance of the track Feed Me To The Lions. www.majesticempire.com

January 16 THE MLK MARCH The Martin Luther King Jr. Academy

February17-19

February 2 FOREIGNER The Majestic Theater

January 10-15

THE ILLUSIONISTS The Majestic Theatre, times vary Direct from Broadway, the world’s best selling magic show is coming to the Majestic Theatre. This mind blowing spectacular showcases the jaw dropping talents of seven of the most incredible Illusionists on earth. www.majesticempire.com

January 17

THE SAN ANTONIO SYMPHONY JURASSIC PARK

of this season. Unanimously acclaimed, extended twice at the Roundabout’s Laura Pels Theater, the Tony Award®-winning musical classic by Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine has been mounted with boundless imagination. This witty and wildly theatrical re-invention is Into The Woods like you’ve never seen it before! www.tobincenter.org January 28

DON HENLEY

RON WHITE

The Majestic Theatre, 7:30pm Don Henley, both as a solo artist and as a member of the Eagles, has received many accolades, including eight Grammy Awards, numerous gold and platinum records and performed sold-out concert tours worldwide. Henley is a founding member, vocalist and songwriter of the Eagles.

Henley’s solo career is acclaimed with such hits as Dirty Laundry, Heart of the Matter, Boys of Summer, The End of the Innocence,and All She Wants To Do is Dance. He was inducted into the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame in 1998, and will receive the 2015 Kennedy Center honors later this year, as a member of the Eagles. www.majesticempire.com

The Majestic Theatre, times vary Ron "Tater Salad" White, best known as the cigar smoking, scotch drinking funnyman from the Blue Collar Comedy phenomenon, makes his return to San Antonio with his new stand-up show. www.majesticempire.com

January 23

INTO THE WOODS The Tobin Center,7:30pm Venture back Into The Woods as the acclaimed Fiasco Theater presents New York’s surprise hit

February 2

February 9-25

FOREIGNER

THE SAN ANTONIO RODEO

The Majestic Theatre, 7:30pm With ten multi-platinum albums and sixteen Top 30 hits, Foreigner is universally hailed as one of the most popular rock acts in the world. Responsible for some of rock and roll’s most enduring anthems including Juke Box Hero, Feels Like The First Time, Urgent, Head Games, Hot Blooded, Cold As Ice, Dirty White Boy, Waiting For A Girl Like You, and the worldwide #1 hit, I Want To Know What Love Is, Foreigner continues to rock the charts almost 40 years into the game. www.majesticempire.com

February 3 January 29

JAY LENO

MAMA MIA

The Majestic Theatre, 7:30pm As host of The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, he followed in the footsteps of legendary NBC late night hosts Steve Allen, Jack Paar and Johnny Carson while creating his own late night style with a combination of humor, conversation and entertainment. His outstanding and engaging personality enabled the Emmy Award-winning and top-rated show to hold its timeslot for a remarkable 15 consecutive years. www.majesticempire.com

The Tobin Center, time vary A mother. A daughter. 3 possible dads. And a trip down the aisle you’ll never forget! Over 54 million people all around the world have fallen in love with the characters, the story and the music that make this the ultimate feel-good show! The story-telling magic of ABBA’s timeless songs propels this enchanting tale of love, laughter and friendships. www.tobincenter.org

The Rodeo Grounds The San Antonio Rodeo has grown to one of the largest, most prestigious single events in the city of San Antonio, with over two million visitors entering the grounds each year. This year the event takes place February 9-25. In addition to the rodeo and livestock show the following entertainers will be featured: Gary Allan, Neal McCoy, Cody Johnson, Little Big Town, Sam Hunt, Maddie & Tae, John Fogerty, For King & Country, Chris Young, Willie Nelson & Family, The Band Perry, Chris Janson, Chase Rice, Dan & Shy, Edwin Luna Y La, Fifth Harmony, Dirks Bentley, Jake Owen, Huey Lewis and the News, Rascal Flatts, Aaron Watson and Josh Turner.

February 15

ADAM ANT The Majestic Theatre, 8pm Following his recent sold out UK tour, pop icon Adam Ant is celebrating the 35th anniversary of the release of his landmark Kings of the Wild Frontier album with a newly-remastered

The Majestic Theatre, times vary One of the most thrilling science fiction adventures ever made, featuring one of John Williams’ most iconic musical scores.

Audiences can experience this ground-breaking film as never before: projected in HD with a full symphony orchestra performing live to picture. www.majesticempire.com

February 24

BILLY CRYSTAL The Majestic Theatre, 8pm Billy Crystal found fame as a movie funnyman with starring roles in blockbusters such as When Harry Met Sally, City Slickers and Analyze This. He is also the much loved nine-time host of the Academy Awards, Join him for one night only. www.majesticempire.com

February 24 The Tobin Center,7:30pm

LASER SPECTACULAR PINK FLOYD Paramount’s Laser Spectacular, the smash hit multi-media laser and light show featuring the music of Pink Floyd illuminates the Tobin Center. Celebrating its 30th year of touring, Paramount’s Laser Spectacular has become a cult classic, presenting the music of Pink Floyd, as you have never seen it before. www.tobincenter.org

2017 SAN ANTONIO RODEO ENTERTAINERS Feb 9

CODY JOHNSON

FEB 16

FEB 20

LITTLE BIG TOWN

WILLIE NELSON & FAMILY FEB 17

FEB 21

SAM HUNT

THE BAND PERRY FEB 18

CHRIS JANSON

FEB 22

Feb 10

FEB 11

Januaruy 23 INTO THE WOODS The Tobin Center

MADDIE & TAE FEB 12

JOHN FOGERTY FEB 13

FOR KING & COUNTRY FEB 14

CHRIS YOUNG FEB 15

CHASE RICE FEB 18

DAN & SHAY FEB 19

EDWIN LUNA Y LA TRAKALOSA DE MONTERREY FEB 19

FIFTH HARMONY

DIERKS BENTLEY JAKE OWEN

HUEY LEWIS AND THE NEWS FEB 23

RASCAL FLATTS FEB 24

AARON WATSON FEB 25

JOSH TURNER FEB 25

january/february 2017 | 105

W HILL COUNTRY GUIDE

ROMANTIC HILL COUNTRY ROAD TRIP DRIVE-TO DESTINATIONS TO PUT THE THRILL BACK IN YOUR WEEKENDS

Of course, romance means different things to different couples. For some, hiking and rock climbing together is exciting. For others, a Rockport fishing trip with a guide is your favorite kind of fun. For some, curling up on a couch in front of the fireplace and sipping wine does the trick. Others like to poke around shops or check out new microbreweries or take winery tours. Some love fine dining, others love dancing, some like live music, and others just want to make beautiful music together in a romantic log cabin.

Whatever romance means to you, the Hill Country has it, and it’s all just a sweet little road trip away. Here are our top five favorite Hill Country getaway destinations for a thrilling weekend away.

Courtesy Sinya Media Images

The thrill is gone.

Not in your relationship — but in your boring date night and weekend routine. Maybe you’ve fallen into a rut: always frequenting the same restaurants and entertainment venues and forgetting that there’s a world of fun just a few miles down the road. It’s time to put romance back into your routine with a fun Hill Country road trip.

By JANIS TURK

1

Sinya at Lone Man Creek, Wimberley

I can’t imagine anything both my husband and I would like more than a weekend at this glorious safaristyle stay, high on a hill outside Wimberley. Designed to be like a luxury safari tent you might find on the Serengeti or the Maasai Mara of Africa, Sinya is a spacious cottage with a king-sized bed, a full luxury bathroom with a claw-footed bathtub and a shower, two decks (one with a hot tub and outdoor shower),

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Romantic Road Trips

can’t think of any other Texas spot quite it’s often solidly booked many months in advance. So book your stay now. It’s

Trois Estate at Enchanted Rock, 3 The outside of Fredericksburg Helo Photography

as special as this, and because of that

Courtesy Sinya Media Images

a barbecue grill and seating area and the best spot to watch the sunset. I

the most romantic Hill Country spot I know, so it’s No. 1 on this list. Want to travel with another couple? Just a few miles away is another great hideaway spot, Grove House and Poet House, where two guest suites are adjacent to one another and have a private patio where you can sip wine and grill dinner.

Get three couples together, and one of you can stay at Sinya while the other two stay there. These are some of the nicest, newest properties you’ll find about 60 miles from San AnThe Trois Estate at Enchanted Rock has long been a favorite of our

tonio. Afterward, poke around the town, eat at one of the restaurants

family—especially our son. Hike to the top of Enchanted Rock, and then

there, and support a town that has been hit hard by flooding but has

spend the evening sitting on the restaurant rooftop watching the sun-

bounced back beautifully.

set. This charming little village was inspired by San Miguel de Allende Courtesy Austin Street Retreat

and looks a bit like a mini-Santa Fe village. With adobe buildings, a grotto and chapel where you can even renew your vows, and guest suites where you can spend the night in Texas-style surroundings, this is a place you’ll want to return to again and again. It’d also be the perfect place for a wedding.

Courtesy Gruene Mansion Inn

The Austin Street Retreat, 2 Fredericksburg This enchanting little compound of “Sunday Haus” accommodations has been around for decades, but it’s still one of our favorite Hill Country retreats. There are five unique suites on this property tucked just a block off Main Street in a quiet, tree-shaded lot. Our favorites

4 Gruene, Texas

a bedroom fireplace, king-sized bed and an enormous luxury bath.

an evening of music at Texas’ oldest dance

This is an old-school-style romantic place where you can cuddle

hall, or you want to stay in a charming river-

under the covers to the glow of the fireplace, or you can enjoy a bot-

side bed and breakfast spot like the Gruene

Whether you just want to drive there for

tle of wine outside by El Jefe’s patio fireplace. If you think your hus-

Mansion Inn, the little Gruene Historic District

band won’t go for something quite so quaint, maybe he’d prefer to

(just outside New Braunfels) is a quick and

check into the more “manly” Hanger Hotel near the Gillespie County

easy getaway designation about 45 miles from

airport—an art deco meets Restoration Hardware-style hotel that

San Antonio. While in the area, be sure to eat

you’ll like too. I’ve never met a man who didn’t like the Hanger Hotel

at Myron’s Steakhouse in New Braunfels for a

and its retro-style soda fountain and diner. In the evenings, you can

special romantic supper or have a nice dinner

sit in lawn chairs next to the runway and watch small planes take off

at Huisache Grill, with its fresh seasonal farm-

and land while you sip a beer or cocktail. While in Fredericksburg, be

to-fork fare. Want something more laid-back?

sure to eat (and shop) at Vaudeville on Main Street and have a glass

Try the sliders and onion rings at Mozie’s, or

of wine at Lincoln Street Wine Market. Another great thing to do is

order a chicken-fried steak at The Grist Mill.

have a chauffeur-driven tour of local wineries along Highway 290

We’ve gone there for 30-plus years, and

from Johnson City to Fredericksburg.

(thankfully) it never changes.

Performer at Gruene Hall

a fireplace downstairs in the bedroom) and Annie’s Cabin, also with

are El Jefe (a two-story suite with an enormous spa tub upstairs and

january/february 2017 | 107

W HILL COUNTRY GUIDE

5 Mandola’s Winery and Trattoria Lisella, Driftwood Just east of Buda and south of

Austin’s Oak Hill Area, not far from the famous Salt Lick BBQ, rests an authentic Italian-style winery and restaurant that fits the bill for big romance. Always wanted to see Tuscany? Trattoria Lisella is as close as you can get without leaving Texas. Drive up for a fabulous evening dinner and then stroll around the grounds, sip some local wine out on the patio, take a winery tour, and make a Sunday day trip out of it. Better yet, do all that and then spend the night nearby at the Sage Hill Inn above Onion Creek. This mini-trip to a Texas version of Italy would be a fun way to put the thrill back into your date nights and weekends this winter.

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Sage Hill Inn

Mandola’s Winery and Trattoria Lisella

Romantic Road Trips

TRAVEL W

ROMANCE REVISITED De-stress Your Valentine’s Day: Revisit one of these laid-back weekend getaway destinations

By JANIS TURK

With Valentine’s Day just a few weeks away, women are getting excited — and guys are getting nervous.

"Should I order flowers, or will they just wilt and die? Should I get her chocolate?

She’s been on a diet. I can’t afford diamonds, so what can I do?”

These are the worries and wonders of loving husbands and boyfriends everywhere.

How can you ease your sweetheart’s mind and yet still have a Valentine’s Day you’ll both enjoy?

Get away together. Tell him you’ll make the reservations, and all he has to do is pick up some grocery store roses and a bottle of wine (or a six-pack of beer if he’d like that better), and everybody wins.

Here are five picks for a laid-back but romantic Texas getaway you’ll both enjoy:

PORT ARANSAS He likes to fish, you like to sit by a fire with a good book, and you both like the Coast. Winter is a great time to head to Port Aransas. For a really romantic getaway, be sure to stay somewhere special, like a condo or even a house at Cinnamon Shore. These new elegant properties set around a swimming pool, exercise room and restaurant all have fully equipped kitchens, so you can cook up your honey’s catch of the day. Then you can sit in the hot tub or roast marshmallows around a campfire on the beach or at the fire ring on the Cinnamon Shore property. Call and make a reservation at the Blue Crab House [(361)444-0036] if you’re bringing the family or another couple along—this gorgeous three-story home near the pool and with a boardwalk to the beach nearby, has three king-sized suites, each with its own private bath on the second floor, and a top floor rec room and children’s room with bunk beds and a bath all their own. If there are just two of you, consider staying in the romantic FDR Suite at the old Tarpon Inn (rates for this fab room are so much more affordable in winter). Your husband will like the old fisherman feel to this quintessential Port A property, but you’ll enjoy how well they’ve decorated the spacious upstairs suite. Then enjoy a romantic dinner at Lisabella’s Bar & Bistro at Cinnamon Shore or at Liberty Hall Inferno in town, or maybe head over to The Boiling Pot in Rockport for a shrimp boil. Your guy will think this is the best Valentine’s Day ever. And even though winter at the beach may be chilly, some days are downright warm and sunny in a South Texas winter. Best of all, winter is low season, so lodging rates are better this time of year. If your honey is a fisherman, maybe head to Rockport/Fulton and hire a fishing guide for a day on the water.

Blue Crab House at Cinnamon Shore

january/february 2017 | 109

W TRAVEL

Romance Revisited LAREDO

La Posada Hotel in Laredo

When was the last time you went to Laredo? Just because Nuevo Laredo hit hard times, it doesn’t mean the American side has. In fact, Laredo has been growing and getting better than ever, and some of the stores you always loved in Nuevo Laredo have moved to the U.S. side of the bridge, like Deutsch & Deutsch, with its fine jewelry and watches, at the Mall del Norte. The iconic Laredo inn we’ve always loved is La Posada Hotel [(956) 722-1701], and it’s just as fabulous as ever. Its Zaragoza Grill, bar, and Tack Room restaurant (known for fabulous steaks and margaritas) are also favorites. Great food, good shopping, a nice hotel — Laredo is the kind of place where you really can get away together and practice the language of love.

AUSTIN

South Congress Hotel in Austin

Austin and San Antonio have just about grown together — it’s only a quick drive up the road to one of Texas’ best big towns. So why not make a weekend getaway to the capital city? If you want an elegant new midcenturystyle hotel in the hippest part of town, stay at the South Congress Hotel, a property that opened in 2015 in SoCo on the spot of a former food truck parking lot across from great stores like Allen’s Boots, Lucy in Disguise with Diamonds, and Uncommon Objects. Eat at South Congress Hotel’s Otoko, a 12-seat Japanese restaurant by Austin celebrity chef Paul Qui, a James Beard Award and Top Chef winner, or have a romantic little Italian dinner at Botticelli’s on South Congress Avenue. Grab a breakfast taco at Guero’s Taco Bar and then walk the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-BikeTrail edging Lady Bird Lake in the morning, wander over to Rainy Street for music and drinks, or two-step at the Broken Spoke. Just walking around Sixth Street and the Warehouse District is fun. If you prefer a more traditional hotel, stay downtown at The Driskill with its cattleman-style bar and its intimate and oh-so-romantic Driskill Grill restaurant. Or stay close to the UT campus and the Bob Bullock Museum at Hotel Ella, a historic mansion property with a modern flair, featuring a wrap-around porch and a fabulous fine dining restaurant, Goodall’s Kitchen, downstairs.

SEGUIN Who knew that such a quaint little getaway spot was just 35 miles away?

This old-fashioned Texas small town, encircling its picturesque Central Park on the downtown square, is home to a special little gem—an uber-affordable historic hotel that has had a million-dollar-plus facelift. The Park Plaza Hotel [(830) 584-4400], just across the street from Central Park, has a great little Chop House restaurant, suites overlooking the park, clean rooms with fabulous mattresses and a brand-new microbrewery and tap room a few blocks away. The adorable Gift & Gourmet and other cute boutiques and antique shops are fun to peruse in the afternoons. On Friday nights the Court Street Coffee Shop has live music and no cover, and there’s a wonderful old school beer joint downtown, The Oak, as well as live music at Austin Street Live. The Seguin Power Plant restaurant, with decks overHaunted Magnolia Hotel in Seguin

110 | sawoman.com

looking the Guadalupe River, also offers burgers and fries and some tasty onion rings with a side of live music, and the Tavern on the Creek across from the town’s new $5 million library serves fresh seasonal fare. Sometimes the historic Palace Theatre has an old movie playing or hosts a play or concert, and most weekends the Haunted Magnolia Hotel, [(512)571-2706] a historic museum-like property, offers ghost tours or history tours of this 1880 stagecoach stop hotel building. In 1977, Doug Sahm released a song called Meet Me in Seguin. Follow his advice and visit there, soon.

Modern Pantry in Lake Charles

LAKE CHARLES, LOUISIANA Maybe you’d like to go to Las Vegas but don’t have the money or the time for a big trip like that. Why not head for the border and gamble on a good time in Lake Charles, Louisiana? You can leave work early and be at the blackjack table or sitting at the slots long before midnight. With the beautiful L’Auberge Casino Resort [(337)395-7777] just a half-hour’s drive beyond the Sabine River border of Texas, a romantic casino stay is close at hand. This hotel is a favorite of my husband’s because it has this Jackson Hole western lodge look to its design scheme, and his favorite steakhouse in the South is L’Auberge’s Ember Grille & Wine Bar, a highly romantic but masculine place with low lights and high style — a wonderful place for a special Valentine meal. The atmosphere is dark and intimate, the steaks and seafood are wonderful, and you can walk back to your room without cutting through the casino. If you want to try your luck in the casino, stop and have a cold drink at the round and glittery Globar first. There are also shops in the resort, along with Modern Pantry, with gourmet goodies, PJ’s Coffee, gelato, breakfast pastries and desserts; restaurant Asia, with its fresh sushi and more; Jack Daniel’s Bar & Grill, and the big Beaucoups Buffet. It may be too cool for a dip in the hotel’s lazy river, but L’Auberge does have hot tubs and a nice spa — so maybe you’ll get that massage after all. Lake Charles has more to offer than its fine casinos (like the two-year-old Golden Nugget with its fabulous pool area, modern midcentury decor and gorgeous grounds or the recently renovated Isle of Capri Casino Resort). While there, try out some of the town’s best fine restaurants like La Truffe Sauvage and Calla, or go for some real down-home Cajun eats your guy will like (like crawfish and oysters) at Steamboat Bill’s, or have a poboy at Darrell’s. With a romantic Lake Charles weekend, you’re both bound to win big.

january/february 2017 | 111

W Weddings

Mr. and Mrs. Bradley Smith (Lauryn Stark) October 14, 2016

Kate Roy of Snap Chic Photography

Mr. and Mrs. Sam Jurgens (Emily Ann Glisson) December 4, 2016

Monica Roberts Photography

Mr. and Mrs. Colin Wood (Whitney Watson) November 6, 2016

Wayfarer Photography

112 | sawoman.com

Monica Roberts Photography

Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Zeringue (Alma Limas) November 19, 2016

Monica Roberts Photography

Mr. and Mrs. Oscar Perez (Annjanette Gonzalez) November 5, 2016

Allison Russell Photography

Mr. and Mrs. Nick Aquino (Jessica Barnett) August 20, 2016

W WOMEN ON THE MOVE Wendy Albers Wendy Albers has been named senior vice president and promoted to sales and service manager of Broadway Bank. Albers began her career at Broadway Bank in 2005, and has been market manager at the Nacogdoches banking center since 2006. Prior to joining the Broadway family, Albers worked in the financial services industry for more than 10 years, in Texas and Alabama.

Ginger Chappell Ginger Chappell, senior commercial and real estate loan documentation specialist, has been named assistant vice president in the loan support department at Broadway Bank. Chappell is responsible for approving documentation and funding for all commercial loans, including interim construction and participation loans. She began her career at Broadway Bank in 1993 as a data entry specialist.

Chris Fausto Chris has been promoted to CEO Chief of Staff in the Executive Management Department of Broadway Bank. Fausto joined Broadway Bank in 1990 as a teller at the Nacogdoches financial center. She has held several positions, most recently as an operations and compliance manager in the private banking department. She holds a bachelor of business administration in management from the UTSA.

Anna Garza Anna Garza, learning and instructional design supervisor in the Broadway Bank talent management department has been named assistant vice president. Garza started her career at Broadway Bank in 2010. She holds a bachelor of arts in education from the University of Texas at San Antonio and is completing a master of arts in Christian ministry and leadership from Dallas Baptist University.

Carmen Lara Carmen Lara is the new chief of staff for the San Antonio Economic Development Foundation (SAEDF). She is responsible for overseeing executive administration and engagement, CEO communications, board relations and shared support services. Carmen joins the SAEDF team with several years of business planning, project management and human resources experience.

Melissa Salazar Melissa Salazar, a 10 year veteran of Broadway Bank, has been promoted to assistant vice president, market manager at the San Pedro banking center. Salazar most recently worked as an assistant market manager at Broadway Bank medical center for six years. Prior to joining Broadway Bank, she worked in the banking industry for 13 years.

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W LOOKING BACK

1967 St Mary’s Hall students compete in the popular KENS Channel 5 high school panel show, “On The Spot”, to demonstrate their knowledge of current events.

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