TAYLOR LANE
I hope you have enjoyed a wonderful summer and made some time to connect and kick back with loved ones.
As we approach the end of the season, I am excited to share a very special section inside about Gardopia Gardens & The Landscape Cooperative. If you’ve ever considered starting a home garden - let this be your sign! CEO & Founder Stephen Lucke shares the story behind these impactful area nonprofits and how his vision for a healthier community starts in the garden. I always enjoy spending time at the weekend markets held at the Gardopia HQ to enjoy live music, great food, and tree adoptions from time to time!
If the little ones are going stir-crazy at home, check out this edition’s ’09 Eats! Some of our favorite kid-approved eateries are great for parents, too.
I hope you enjoy all the stories inside. As always, please reach out to me with your ideas and nominations in and around 78209.
Cheers!
Photo by Suzanne Pack, Celebrated Reflections
PUBLISHER
Las Tres Muchachas
EDITOR
Taylor Lane
DIRECTOR OF SALES & PARTNERSHIPS
Dale Lane
ADVERTISING SALES
Cindy Jennings
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Kimberly Pipes FOR ADVERTISING & INFORMATION (210) 236-5834 info@78209magazine.com Published by A Las Tres Muchachas Production
TO THE
/
Cathleen & Dale Lane
305 E Ramsey, San Antonio, Texas 78216 (210) 236-5834 | @78209magazine www.78209magazine.com
Cover Photo by David Teran
/
To view us online, visit: 78209magazine.com | To Subscribe: $19.95 (one year) Contact us: info@78209Magazine.com | (210) 236-5834 Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! | @78209magazine
Dedicated Teachers
Led by passionate, dedicated musicians who love tea ching and encouraging students to learn and enjoy playing their favorite instruments.
Personalize Lessons
Personalized lessons for every student’s individual needs, designed for them to reach new heights in their mus ical journey.
An Array of Instruments
Private music lessons for a variety of instruments, including piano, violin, guitar, drums, flute, voic e, cello and more!
Performance Opportunities
Bi-annual recitals in San Antonio’s prestigious rec ital halls and opportunities to perform in New York City’s Car negie Hall, as well as historic concert halls across Euro pe, including Italy, Austria, and England.
A Harmonious Community
A welcoming community for families, students, and teachers who are enthusiastic about music and a bri ghter future!
About The Cover August 2024
18
Business Profile
A successful Chicago photographer starts over after a move to 78209 but finds a renewed purpose with her art and business expertise. Meet the woman behind The Artists Collective.
20
Meet Your Neighbors
From bad pants to a whirlwind engagement, their journey was as unique as the neighborhood they now call home. Learn how the Nisbet family found both love and a sense of belonging in the heart of 78209.
28 Leadership
Christian Mendez, manager of Julian’s Italian Pizzeria & Kitchen in Alamo Heights shares how putting his team first and prioritizing his own wellness has been they key to his great leadership for nearly a decade.
What an awesome drone shot by photographer David Teran! This birds-eye view of the Heights Pool is something we don’t get to witness from the pool level. As summer comes to a close, don’t miss the chance to spend a day at the pool with friends and family!
If you bring this edition with you for some relaxing by the water (which we HIGHLY recommend), we would love to see you share a photo and tag us on Instagram @78209magazine!
Happy end of summer from the 78209 Magazine team!
LA PANADERÍA GOBBLES UP STRIP CENTER
By Ron Aaron Eisenberg
It is easy to see how popular La Panadeiría Bakery and Café has become in 78209. Just drive past the 8305 Broadway St. location any day of the week to see firsthand a parking lot loaded with cars and a sidewalk jammed with people waiting to get into the establishment.
Now, 78209 Magazine has learned, the bakery will soon take over the entire building, remodeling the last piece that was briefly a sports bar and nightclub.
On its website, brothers José and David Cáceres explain they opened the bakery-cafe in 2014 to share their Mexican heritage and love for baking with the people of their adopted hometown of San Antonio, Texas.
They write that the Cáceres’ passion for baking began when they were young boys selling loaves of their mother, Doña Josefina’s fresh baked bread, on the streets of Mexico City. Eventually José and David took over their mother’s homegrown business and started baking on a large scale, supplying bread and pan dulce for businesses throughout Mexico. After finding financial success in Mexico, the brothers realized they wanted to get back to the basics, and they decided to bring their passion for bread cultura to Texas.
Since opening the eatery in 78209, La Panadería has added locations throughout San Antonio. From the South Side to La Cantera, to the north.
The expansion to the 8305 Broadway location reportedly will add more seating and a coffee and juice bar. One of La Panadería’s managers told me they expect to complete the expansion before the end of the year.
H-E-B LINCOLN HEIGHTS NEWLY REMODELED STORE OPENS TRUE TEXAS BBQ
After more than two decades since it first opened in San Antonio, H-E-B Lincoln Heights, 999 E. Basse Rd, 78209, has a new look featuring the company’s True Texas BBQ restaurant.
When H-E-B announced plans to remodel the Lincoln Heights location in 2021, it said every department throughout the store will be expanded to serve customers, growing the store to more than 110,000 square feet. The $5 million dollar project features new and upgraded departments, a larger product assortment, an expanded curbside area with more dedicated parking, a new pharmacy drive-thru, and a True Texas BBQ.
The restaurant opened in late July. It features indoor and outdoor seating. The menu includes traditional barbecue offerings -- pulled pork, mac and cheese, creamed corn, brisket, pork ribs, coleslaw, brisket beans, sausage, white meat chicken breast and more.
- IN THE LOOP -
YOGA AND PILATES UNDER ONE ROOF IN ALAMO HEIGHTS
For those seeking to up their wellness regimen, look nor further than Blue Heart Studio! Founded by Nicole Coppi and Ashley Ludwick, Blue Heart is a yoga and Pilates studio located in Alamo Heights inside Moxie Hair Salon and Spa. The duo have been in San Antonio for over a decade teaching various styles of yoga. Nicole shares, “I started practicing yoga to quiet my mind from endless rumination. I quickly learned that I could breathe louder than my thoughts, creating an immense release in my mind and body.” Ashley’s personal yoga journey started in Dallas in 2000 with the purchase of a video tape titled, “Yoga for Beginner’s”. Her love of the practice came along
with the discovery of power yoga classes. With 2 years of practice under her belt, she received a teaching certificate from YogaFit and that changed her yoga trajectory forever. She knew then that teaching yoga was something she was going to do for a long time.
Blue Heart Studio offer classes that cater to all levels of experience, inviting beginners and experts to try a unique and fulfilling experience. Their mission is to provide a safe and supportive environment that encourages physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
- IN THE LOOPAH VALHALLAN ESPORTS ARENA SHUTTERED
By Ron Aaron Eisenberg
One of our twin boys, Kennedy, loved spending time at the Alamo Heights Valhallan Arena. He was a Wednesday evening regular. Plus, he enjoyed the bi-monthly Parents’ Nights Out.
But, without little advance notice, the esports arena at 1432 Austin Highway, 78209, next to the Walmart Super Center, has closed.
Franchise co-owner Roger Batten told me the corporate office pulled the plug on their operation. Chris Baarstad, Valhallan VP of Education and Events, wrote in an email about the closing, “I understand that this transition might be disappointing for many of you. We genuinely appreciate the time you have invested with Valhallan.” He also directed families to explore joining one of the company’s other arenas in the San Antonio area.
Baarstad did not explain why the corporation closed the Alamo Heights location, but he said it is available for another prospective franchisee.
Joshua Creek Ranch Hunting & Sporting Resort in the Texas Hill Country to Celebrate 35th Anniversary!
By Kevin Welborn, Managing Director, Joshua Creek Ranch
Joshua Creek Ranch, Hunting & Sporting Resort in the Texas Hill Country, is celebrating its 35th Anniversary beginning with the upcoming 2024-2025 hunting season. Since 1990, Joshua Creek Ranch has been dazzling even the most discerning guests from all over the world. Custom itineraries, prime hunting & shooting opportunities, and exceptional outdoor sporting adventures are complemented by luxury resort amenities and warm Texas hospitality, resulting in a truly unique and top-shelf experience for visiting guests.
Today, this family-owned and operated ranch, located 45 minutes northwest of downtown San Antonio, thrives as one of the most visited hunting & sporting lodges in the world. In addition, Joshua Creek Ranch perennially boasts some of the highest honors and endorsements from the most reputable programs in the industry including Orvis, Beretta, and Federal Premium Ammunition to name a few.
The commitment to continuous growth and improvement every year is the root of Joshua Creek Ranch’s undeniable success. “We opened in 1990 with a third of the land we now hunt, so we’ve been very fortunate to be able to add contiguous acreage. Also, at the end of every hunting season, we tackle a list of summer projects which include things like clearing hunting pastures, building new accommodations, expanding the pro shop, and opening a resort-style pool,” said Ann Kercheville, Vice Chairman & President (Ann and her husband, Joe Kercheville, are the original founders and owners of Joshua Creek Ranch). “That’s how we’ve grown over the last 35 years…just taking baby steps year after year. I think our clients enjoy returning each year to see that we’ve made some improvements for their comfort and enjoyment.,” Kercheville added.
Joshua Creek Ranch specializes in wingshooting opportunities including upland hunting for quail, pheasant, and chukar along with European-style driven shooting for pheasant and mallard ducks. “The mild hunting season climate, the beautiful and diverse habitat, the convenient location in South Central Texas, and our clients’ enthusiasm for gamebird hunting are all a part of what has made JCR so special for so long,” said Kercheville.
In addition, Joshua Creek Ranch also features a variety of outdoor activities like sporting clays, helice, and simulated
driven clays shooting along with fly fishing, handgun and rifle shooting ranges, water recreation, and free-range hunting for whitetail & axis deer, and blackbuck antelope. “Joshua Creek Ranch is like a resort or country club, but instead of golf and tennis, we focus on hunting, shooting, fly-fishing, and other outdoor recreation. On top of that, our lodging, dining, and resort amenities and facilities are truly second to none,” exclaimed Kevin Welborn, Managing Director.
Joshua Creek Ranch will celebrate this milestone anniversary throughout the 2024-2025 hunting season with a commemorative logo treatment, branded apparel, national marketing campaign, and special events for staff, Members, and clients. “We are very proud of the amazing operation we have built over the last 35 years and fully intend to share our gratitude with everyone who helped us along the way,” Welborn added.
CHRISTUS
ABOUT JOSHUA CREEK RANCH:
Joshua Creek Ranch, located in the beautiful Texas Hill Country, is nestled on an isolated stretch of the pristine Guadalupe River and Joshua Creek – just 45 minutes northwest of downtown San Antonio. The family-owned and operated Ranch is open daily to the public (with reservations), but also features a 3-tiered Membership program. With exceptional hunting and sporting opportunities along with luxury lodging, fine & casual dining, and premier resort amenities & facilities, this sporting paradise is a one-of-a-kind destination that is ideal for corporate events, family getaways, special occasions, and milestone celebrations.
The Artists Collective
The Artists Collective
The Camera Lens at the Artists Collective is on Portraiture and Helping
Other Photographers Thrive
By Bruce X. Forey | Photography by David Teran
A Chicago transplant brings her unique eye for photography and business acumen to 78209. Nancy Canseco owns The Artists Collective, located at 6702 N New Braunfels Ave. She recently moved to San Antonio to be near her parents and start her own family. In Chicago, Nancy owned a thriving business called Studio This Is. The Artists Collective is a similar concept. It’s where Nancy operates her photography business while offering a place for photographers to work with their clients.
“I have a very big space and rent it out to creatives for their photography needs. We have memberships for those needing access to the studio more frequently,” said Nancy. “I also host workshops and networking events to meet people and get more involved in the artistic community.”
In addition to being a creative space, Nancy also offers management services through The Artist Collective to help her peers prosper on the business side of photography.
“A lot of them don’t know how to price their service profitably,” Nancy added. Many don’t know how to respond to clients in a timely fashion. They don’t understand that the customer experience is more important than the art they’re making. Those are some of the ways I help them be more successful.”
Mixing art and business is something that comes naturally to Nancy. She would like to see more creatives take business courses, and more colleges offer business classes tailored to art students.
“Artists develop their skills, go out into the world, and don’t understand their market value, so they don’t charge enough,” Nancy said. I’ve always been a good problem solver. I understand I need to generate a certain dollar amount per month before I can scale. I enjoy putting those pieces together.”
Nancy says she was very successful as a wedding photographer in Chicago but basically had to start over
in San Antonio. With a new child, a fresh start in 78209 was an opportunity to adjust the focus of her photography business.
She said, “It’s hard to let go of weddings because I love them and am very good at them. However, as a new mother, they are time consuming. My 20 years of experience also made me an excellent portrait photographer. I’ve learned how to put people at ease quickly, and I love working in the studio.”
While building her portrait clientele, she discovered a specialization that brings tremendous satisfaction.
“My most fulfilling part of my business is photographing women. It’s just my favorite thing right now.”
This niche inspired Nancy to create a project called, 40 over 40, which celebrates women as they age gracefully. She offers a specially priced package to women over 40 years old. It includes makeup, a photo session, and a printed portrait for framing. After 40 women are photographed, Nancy plans to host a show to celebrate the women who participated in the project.
“One of the things I’m passionate about with portraiture is women feeling confident in themselves. As a woman over 40, I understand how we can be hard on our appearance as we get older. So, I really want to celebrate age and beauty. I want to give women an opportunity to feel empowered through portraiture,” Nancy added.
With a growing portrait, studio rental, and management services business in place, Nancy envisions a future by expanding her photography to other specializations like newborns and more. “Empowering portraiture to different people,” she says.
“My portrait business is creating art for people and ensuring they have something lasting, not just something digital.”
The Nisbet Family
The Nisbet Family
From First Date to Forever: The Nisbet Family Find Love and Home in Terrell Hills
By Bruce X. Forey | Photography by David Teran
What happens when attorney John Nisbet and scientist Marina Nolin meet on a first date? They get engaged a week later! Yes, love rules even for a couple whose careers often place them in the analytical thinker category.
Their story began through an online dating site where the women contact the men.
“I was lucky to be chosen by her,” John recalls.
After a long chat, they agreed to meet for dinner. During a talk before their date, Marina made a joke about liking guys who wear bad pants. That was too much for John to resist.
“I found the worst pants. They were salmon-colored, and it was a conversation starter.”
While the pants stood out to Marina, it was John’s authenticity that made the biggest impression.
“You hear horror stories of people who are not like they represent themselves online, but John was actually like his profile. He was quite charming,” Marina recalls.
“We talked about all manner of things, and I saw how big of a heart she had,” John remembered. “I saw in her what I hadn’t found with anyone else.”
Marina obviously felt the same, but those salmon pants sealed their destiny.
“If I had any doubts we were going to get married before our date, with the bad pants, I knew.”
Another sign was how welcoming Marina’s son, Atlas, was to John. He was five years old when they met.
“It was just awesome from day one. He came over and gave me a kiss on my shoulder, and I thought that was really nice,” John said fondly.
A couple that gets engaged a week after their first date usually doesn’t wait long to tie the knot. They planned the wedding in about a week and got married three months later. Everything fell into place to make this union happen. The Little Church of La Villita and its pastor were available the weekend family could
be in town for the wedding. Getting their marriage license was almost the most challenging part of saying, “I do.”
“We went to the courthouse, and the clerk told us she didn’t think the judge would issue us a license on such short notice,” John said. “We then went into the courtroom, hat in hand, told the judge we had family coming into town, had the church and pastor scheduled, and were ready to go. She basically said, ‘Okay, here’s your marriage license. Good luck to you all.’”
Perhaps John’s persuasive attorney skills connected with the judge. He is Underwriting Counsel for Stewart Title and has significant experience working within the real estate industry. Before Stewart Title, he was General Counsel for Phyllis Browning Company. He’s also a licensed broker and owned an agency for more than 12 years, combining ranch sales with real estate legal services. He was also chair of the San Antonio Bar Association’s Real Estate Section.
Marina is a career chemist with over a decade of experience in the field. She currently works for Southwest Research Institute as a Senior Quality Scientist. Prior to Southwest Research Institute, she worked as an R&D chemist at VP Racing Fuels developing fuels for various racing organizations.
The Nisbets have a son together named Ezra, or “Ezzie” for short, who turns two in August. They call Terrell Hills home and love the sense of community and its “small-town vibe.” They say it’s a beautiful place to live, with friendly neighbors and kids who like to get out and play.
“Halloween is our favorite time of the year. We close our block, and everybody sets up tables of food and candy. It’s just a nice, fun, family party for Halloween,” said John.
The family of four likes taking road trips, particularly to West Texas and Colorado. They also enjoy parks and hiking. At the end of an outing or a long day at work, the solitude of a charming, tree-lined street awaits them in Terrell Hills.
Marina reflected, “When I was growing up, my dad and I would drive through 78209 and admire the neighborhoods and all the pretty houses, so it was aspirational for me to one day live here.”
Welcome home.
- ON THE MARKET -
78209 Magazine August Edition Real Estate Market Report
Real estate industry changes brought from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) the class action lawsuit begin taking effect on August 14, 2024. Many of the changes affect how real estate agents do business within the industry and with clients. Agents who use the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) to present and show properties with clients will be required to enter a written Buyer Representation Agreement before touring a home. Also, real estate brokers and their agents brokers will be required to have their sellers, perspective sellers and buyers sign a Compensation Disclosure. Agents are in the process of receiving further guidance from their brokers and from the San Antonio Board of Realtors (SABOR).
Home sellers will no longer be required to pay the buyer agent’s commission The thought is this savings will trickle down to buyers in the form of lower prices for homes. This remains to be seen. Also, questions remain on the buyer’s agent commission and the level of service a buyer will receive in relation to the fee charged. I’ll provide an update on the NAR settlement and how it will impact 78209 home buyers and sellers in my September Real Estate Market Report.
The housing market in 78209 continues to show signs of shifting towards a buyer’s market, with an increase in the number of homes on the market and a decrease in average prices compared to a year ago. However, the discount off the original list price remains relatively small compared to other areas in San Antonio.
Data from the San Antonio Board of Realtors (SABOR), based on June 2024 statistics, covers activity across all price ranges in 78209, which can vary widely. Closed sales in June dropped to 26 from 53 in the previous month, marking the third consecutive decline in closed sales for this area.
The average sold price fell to $543,354 in June 2024, down from $595,528 in May 2024. In comparison, the average sale price in June 2023 was $627,971. The average price per square foot also declined to $252 in June 2024, compared to $269 per square foot in May - a decrease of more than six percent.
The intense buying activity of the pandemic has subsided, and most homes no longer command top-tier prices. The local market continues to adjust to pre-pandemic conditions. However, the drop in average sales price and price per square foot does not necessarily indicate a decline in property values. Many residents were hit with increases in their property valuations by the Bexar County Appraisal District, along with higher property taxes.
The increase in homes for sale in 78209 suggests that more affordable options may be available. In June, 92 homes entered the market, compared to 108 in May 2024. This amounts to 200 additional homes for sale compared to 175 during the same two-month period in June 2023.
Interest rates are affecting sales activity, contributing to the rise in the number of active listings. In June, there were 268 properties for sale in 78209, up from 170 on the market a year ago. A larger inventory can lead to longer selling times, with the average time on the market rising to 57 days in June, up from 46 days in May 2024.
A six-month housing inventory is often seen as a benchmark for a buyer’s market, and SABOR data shows a 6.8-month inventory in June 2024, up from 5.8 months in May.
One indicator of a micro-market’s desirability, such as 78209, is the original list-to-sold price ratio. In June, this ratio was 94.5%, an improvement from 91.9% in May. Many neighborhoods in 78209 ranks among Niche. com’s top 10 places to live in San Antonio. The area’s central location and the popularity of Alamo Heights I.S.D. schools continue to keep the 78209-housing market one of the strongest in the city. Sellers should price their homes according to market conditions and be prepared for a potentially longer selling period than last year. More available homes provide buyers with more options to find a property within their price range and potentially negotiate a better price.
Bruce is a skilled real estate agent serving 78209 and beyond. He enjoys helping client’s market and sell their property, find a dream home or discover investment opportunities. He has advanced training as a luxury homes specialist, with pricing strategies, residential home inspection for real estate agents, and military relocation. Learn more at bruceXforey.com, social media, or email: bruce@bruceforey.com
- SCHOOL NEWSBACK TO SCHOOL 2024
Courtesy of AHISD
There’s no place like AHISD! As we prepare for another school year in Alamo Heights ISD, here’s important information for families.
Calendar and Campus Hours
The first day of school for students is August 12, 2024.
Campus hours are:
Howard ECC - 7:45 a.m. to 2:55 p.m.
Woodridge and Cambridge 8:15 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Junior School 8:45 a.m. to 4 p.m.
High School 8:45 a.m. to 4 p.m.
After School Care
Right At School is the before and after-school care provider for Howard, Cambridge, and Woodridge. Visit their website for more information and to register. Representatives also plan to attend back to school events at the campuses.
Athletics
As we look forward to another year of cheering on the Mules, schedules and ticket information can be found on the Athletics website. The district has a Clear Bag Policy for all AHHS athletic facilities.
Immunizations
Parents should make sure their child’s immunizations are up to date, and share that information with their campus nurse. The Campus Nurse News website has minimum immunization requirements, medication policy, and medical forms to prepare for the new year.
San Antonio Metro Health also offers immunization clinics around the city, including these opportunities the next few weeks.
Stay Connected
AHISD utilizes the School Messenger system to communicate important information to families through email, text, and/or phone calls. If any contact information has changed, like phone numbers or email addresses, families should contact their campus office to update in our student information system. Follow these instructions to opt in for text messages, if you haven’t previously done so.
AHISD also utilizes the Home Access Center to keep families updated on grades and student attendance. More information about logging in, FAQs, and contact information for troubleshooting can be found by visiting the HAC website.
Stay connected to all things AHISD by following us on social media. We’re on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.
For additional questions, contact the front office at each campus or AHISD Central Office at 210-824-2483.
2024-2025 BUS SERVICE
Courtesy of AHISD
Registration and payments for the Tuition Bus program for Howard Early Childhood Center, Alamo Heights Junior School, and Alamo Heights High School students is underway. For Cambridge and Woodridge students, registration and payments begin August 26 for bus service to start September 4.
Families should visit the Transportation Department office, located at 175 Rittiman Road, during normal business hours to provide payment. Cash, checks, or money orders are accepted and the cost is $450 per school year. Summer business hours, through the end of July, are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. until 3 p.m.
The Tuition Bus program is offered to families who live less than 2 miles from their campus and elect to pay for bus service. The tuition fee will be waived for families participating in the free/ reduced lunch program and the Transportation Department will confirm eligibility.
If your child lives 2 miles or further from their school campus, you may qualify for free bus service. Registration for this service is now open. The online registration form can be found on the Transportation website.
Howard/Junior School/High School initial bus contract registration, payment, and free/reduced lunch status verification starts July 8, 2024 and closes August 4, 2024. This closing time allows us to create routes and be ready for the first day of school. Registration will start up again on August 26, 2024, and will continue all year.
After all information is complete and verified, phone calls with bus information will be made to Howard tuition bus rider families starting August 7-August 9, 2024.
Cambridge/Woodridge bus contract registration starts July 8, 2024 for tuition bus riders. Payment, and free/reduced lunch status verification starts August 26, 2024 (with no end date) so we can determine how many seats are available on each bus route (seating is limited). Registration AND Payment or Free/Reduced Lunch Verification must BOTH be completed to put your child on the waiting list.
Online bus contract registration MUST be completed BEFORE payment is accepted or free/reduced lunch application is verified. For students who live 2 or more miles (“2+ mile”) from their school campus, the regular school bus contract registration must be updated every year and this began July 1, 2024. Students will not be allowed to ride until this is completed.
Bus contract registration applications are reviewed and approved and bus lists are updated for drivers every Monday morning.
Tuition bus families that register/pay/are verified the week of August 26 will be called on Tuesday (September 3, 2024 for the first week) with bus information to begin riding on Wednesday (September 4, 2024).
August
7 & 21
Garden Nights
San Antonio Botanical Garden
Wednesday, August 7th | Wednesday, August 21st
Discover the enchantment of Garden Nights select Wednesdays from April through September. Enjoy extended hours, savor delicious food and beverages, explore a vibrant vendor market, and enjoy captivating live entertainment, all amidst the mesmerizing beauty of the Garden during the summer season.
Extended Garden hours included with membership and regular daily admission.
Kayaking on the River Walk! Tobin Center for the Performing Arts
Saturdays & Sundays
Rent a kayak and enjoy kayaking along the world famous San Antonio River Walk as it winds through Downtown San Antonio! This is a wonderful easy 3.25 mile flat-water kayak trip which is great for beginner kayakers and families.
Dog Daze of August
San Antonio Botanical Garden
Enjoy the Garden’s 38 acres of summer blooms with your four-legged friends! All dogs must always be on a leash and must leave the Garden by 12 p.m.
Dog Guidelines:
• All dogs on-site must be current with appropriate shots and registrations Dogs in heat or aggressive animals may be removed from the Garden at the discretion of the management; no refunds
• No dogs will be allowed in the Garden after 12 p.m. and all dogs must be on a leash at all times
• No dogs will be allowed at The Zachry Foundation Culinary Garden, Family Adventure Garden, Children’s Vegetable Garden, or Lucile Halsell Conservatory exhibit rooms.
All dogs must always remain on marked paths; this protects both plants and paws
JOHN ROWE |
BEAUTY
AND THE HUMAN FORM
AnArte Gallery
Artist Reception: August 15 | 5:30 - 7:30 pm
AnArte Gallery is honored to present John Rowe’s captivating solo exhibition, Beauty and the Human Form. Join us for an unforgettable opening artist reception featuring a delightful Vino, Champagne, & Mocktail bar, live music from Jevonchi and Antique Sunlight, and an engaging Art Talk at 6:45 pm. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary evening of art and celebration!
Brackenridge Park is celebrating 125 years to honor the people, traditions, and experiences in nature the park has brought to San Antonio. The Brackenridge Park Conservancy is hosting events throughout the year to celebrate this milestone. Please visit brackenridgepark.org for a list of events and programming.
Scan QR code to support Brackenridge Park for the next 125 years!
The Brackenridge Park Conservancy is a steward of Brackenridge Park’s natural, historic, educational, and recreational resources and an advocate for their preservation and enhancement for the benefit of current and future generations.
Lead from the Front: The Power of Hands-On Leadership
By Angel Santiago | Photography by Taylor Lane
What’s a leader’s favorite type of pizza? One with “extra” accountability and “supreme” communication!
These are two leadership qualities that Christian Mendez, manager of Julian’s Italian Pizzeria & Kitchen (Alamo Heights), prioritizes. They have been key in helping him successfully lead the 78209 location for the past eight years.
Julian Solis and his wife Kara are the proud owners of Julian’s Italian Pizzeria & Kitchen, a familyowned business that offers a cozy, family-friendly ambiance for customers to enjoy a quality product for a reasonable price. Christian is Julian’s nephew, and he loves working at Julian’s, not only because of how great of a team they have but because it truly feels like they are all in a community of their own. “When coming into work, I look forward to seeing our customers come in and enjoy our delicious food, along with seeing our regulars that come in weekly,” Christian said.
Christian defines leadership as prioritizing team over self, being hands-on, and leading from the front. “I like putting my team first rather than myself because they’re the ones coming along with me, helping me along the way. They are the people that are helping me lead them, so I like to put them first”, said Christian.
I must say, Christian definitely has the right idea when it comes to leadership. He is embodying the concept of servant leadership. This is a leadership style in which the leader’s primary goal is to serve others. It emphasizes the well-being and growth of team members, prioritizing their needs and development over the leader’s own ambitions. This leadership approach inspires collaboration, trust, and a sense of community. This enhances individual performance
and drives organizational success, as team members feel valued and motivated to contribute their best efforts.
What really stood out to me about Christian is his hands-on approach. “I give my 100%, you know, if the team needs help, I’m always there to help no matter what. Whether it’s dishwashing in the back or mopping the floors in the front. I’m always hands-on with them. I’m never just sitting in the office or just hanging around; I’m always on the floor with them.” He takes a leading-from-the-front approach. This requires the leader to set an example for others by taking the initiative and being actively involved in the day-to-day tasks and challenges that need to be done. In fact, The American Psychological Association found that employees who perceive their leaders as supportive and involved are 33% more likely to report high levels of well-being and lower levels of stress, contributing to a healthier and more productive work environment. A survey by Deloitte revealed that organizations with leaders who lead from the front are 1.5 times more likely to be in the top quartile of their industry for financial performance.
Aside from having a team-first approach, Christian most certainly shows up for himself by caring for his physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being through exercise, meditation, and reading. “I like to go to the gym and get a workout in; it relieves my stress. I like to meditate at home, do some reading, and journal my thoughts and ideas. I also have a morning routine. When I wake up, I’ll make my coffee, and then I’ll spend about 10 minutes on my patio, spending time in nature and soaking in the sun”, said Christian. He believes these self-care practices are essential for effective leadership, and they have a big impact on keeping him calm, centered, and on top of his game.
Did you know? Self-care practices have a profound impact on leadership skills by enhancing various aspects of personal and professional well-being? They are essential for leaders to maintain their physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being, directly enhancing their leadership skills and overall effectiveness.
By prioritizing self-care, leaders can better serve their teams, make more informed decisions, and create a positive and productive work environment. A study published in the Journal of Applied Psychology found that leaders with high emotional intelligence - which can be enhanced through self-care practices - are 40% more likely to be successful in their roles. In fact, research by the World Economic Forum shows that companies with leaders who prioritize their health and well-being see a 25% reduction in healthcare costs and a 15% increase in productivity.
Some of the benefits of self-care include:
Improved Mental Clarity and Focus
Increased Emotional Intelligence
Enhanced Stress Management
Better Physical Health
Greater Resilience
Positive Role Modeling
Improved Work-Life Balance
Enhanced Creativity and Innovation
Increased Confidence
Stronger Relationships
Are you caring for your physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being? If not, you ought to.
As you reflect on the principles of prioritizing your team, being hands-on, leading from the front, and embracing self-care, consider the profound impact these strategies can have on your leadership journey and organizational success. By integrating self-care into your leadership style, you can maintain the energy and resilience needed to inspire and support your team effectively.
If you’re ready to elevate your leadership approach and drive your team to new heights, contact me today. Together, we can develop and implement tailored strategies that put your team first and lead from the front. Let’s create a thriving environment where everyone succeeds. Reach out now to begin your journey towards becoming a truly exceptional leader.
Blessings, #LifeCoachAngel 210.239.3435
GROWING TOGETHER WITH GARDOPIA GARDENS
Let’s take a stroll back to the good ole days when grandma told you to go outside and fetch a few eggs from the henhouse, harvest a few apples from the orchard, and go down the street to the dairy farmer’s to get some fresh milk and butter. Ahhh, you can almost smell the fresh country air and apple pie! Now, fast forward to the busy city life, appointments all day, traffic, and endless screen time. Humanity sure has taken a shift these past few decades, and not necessarily all for the better. So, what can we control in this computer age, you may ask? If you ask local entrepreneur Stephen Lucke, he’ll say our food is a good start. “Whether it be breakfast, lunch, or dinner, here in SA, we can grow something to eat 365 days a year. Even in the extreme summer heat, you can grow tasty okra, peppers, and southern peas!” he gleams with pride. Lucke sees an urban agriculture renaissance happening in the Alamo City, and he’s on a mission to see every man, woman, and child growing food to live healthy and sustainably! “Only the past four generations missed out on this knowledge; we’ve been duped from the Boomers to Gen Z. Food science, fast food, and GMOs pretty much created the Standard American Diet that many of us consume today…which has led to a public health epidemic for obesity and diabetes. Cardiovascular disease is still the #1 killer in America, and much of it can be prevented through a healthy diet; these are preventable diseases which burden our healthcare system.”
On the bright side, we can all start small at home to contribute to our own health and the health of our community. Creating (or sprucing up) a home garden is a great way to stay healthy, sustainable, and have fun connecting with your food! You can start by establishing fruit trees, berries, or grapes in your yard. When the weather begins to cool, add some raised garden beds to serve as a home for your rotation of crops and produce year-round. Another idea is adding a compost pile to your home. Not sure where to start? The experts at Gardopia are here to help!
Lucke’s solution stems from Hippocrates’ quote, “Let food be thy medicine.” in 2015, with the help of a couple of college friends, he founded the local non-profit Gardopia Gardens. While studying biochemistry and nutrition in
college, Lucke became aware of how the food system was destroying America’s health. He believed it was largely a lack of food literacy that was impacting our food choices, coupled with inner-city food deserts. Gardopia focuses on educational and community gardens, teaching people how they can grow healthier choices. From schools to churches, community centers to daycares, anywhere people gather, you’re liable to see a Gardopia Garden! In 9 years, Gardopia has worked with over 8 school districts, including SAISD, AHISD, South San, Southside, Edgewood, NEISD, HISD, SWISD, and more! Gardopia currently supports over 50 partner garden sites, providing educational programming, infrastructure optimization, farmers’ markets, and volunteer opportunities. Gardopia also operates a ½ acre micro-farm near Eastside by the Frost Center. This site was formerly one of the most violent intersections in the city and is now a green oasis in the urban core. For 9 years, Lucke has been fervently growing this mission throughout some of the cities most impoverished regions.
About five years into his work with Gardopia the pandemic hit, and the world stopped, except Lucke’s phone began blowing up from local residents wanting to get their hands dirty, at which time the COVID Gardener was born! “There was a huge uptick in traffic. We must’ve built 100 home gardens in people’s homes that spring! I couldn’t believe
it; it was sort of a silver lining during the pandemic. People were home and wanted to connect with nature, coupled with a few food scares. People started to realize the global food supply chain was more fragile than we’d like to believe.”
Once Lucke saw this huge demand for residential gardens and commercial edible landscaping, he started a workerowned cooperative. The Landscape Cooperative (TLC), founded in 2021, TLC is an opportunity to empower employees, creating wealth for the company and the vested partners at the same time. As a young teen working for corporate America, he always thought a majority of employees would work harder if they saw a share of the profits. Hence, the cooperative model made that possible in a democratic approach. The Landscape Cooperative niche market is building edible and pollinator gardens for residences and restaurants. “We believe every family and every chef should have access to fresh produce. We just don’t cook like we used to, and part of this is having fresh ingredients that are straight off the vine. Have you ever harvested a fig or tomato mid-summer? Man, that thang tastes like heaven!”
If you wonder how Lucke manages to achieve all this homegrown goodness, he’ll attribute it to his team and a little bit of luck! “First and foremost, my supporting cast is AMAZING! We have a combined 50+ years of urban agriculture knowledge, coupled with close to 30 years of experience in the educational field.” Couple that with their diverse background and youthfulness, the team has created a real buzz around growing food in every grass patch available. There’s no reason figs, pomegranates, grapes, and blackberries aren’t growing wild everywhere… for Pete’s sake, why aren’t pecans planted in every new subdivision house? It just makes sense for people and the planet. We
can produce food, create ecosystem services, and improve our overall quality of life. Seems like a win-win! When Lucke travels to so-called international cities, he senses a culture of health, mainly because of environmental factors like water, mountains, and parks. Here in San Antonio, we don’t have that calling card for health, but maybe gardening can be our thing. San Antonio used to be the winter garden hub of the US. We used to produce a sizeable amount of cold crops from November - February when the northern states were under snow! Lucke believes we can grow again, and we can grow together.
So, if you need some tips, or an entire landscape overhaul, hit up Lucke and his greenthumbs. Together, we can all grow a healthier community, committed to local ecosystems and economies!
- CHURCH DIRECTORY -
ALAMO HEIGHTS BAPTIST CHURCH
6501 Broadway St. San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 824-9539
Services: Sunday 11:00am
Wednesday 6:30pm Praise and Prayer
ALAMO HEIGHTS
CHRISTIAN CHURCH
6435 N. New Braunfels Ave. San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 828-5728 alamoheightscc.org
Services: Sunday: 10:50am
ALAMO HEIGHTS
PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
6201 Broadway St. San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 824-0271 alamoheightspres.com
Services:
Sunday 8:30am and 11am
ALAMO HEIGHTS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
825 E. Basse Road San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 826-3215
ahumc.org
Services:
Sunday 8:30am, 9:30am and 11am
CHRIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH
510 Belknap Place San Antonio, TX 78212 (210) 736-3132
cecsa.org
Services:
Wednesday 11:00am, 6:00pm Sunday 7:30am, 9am, 11:00am, 5:00pm
CHRIST LUTHERAN CHURCH
6720 Broadway St. San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 822-3394
clcah.org
Services: Sunday 8:30am and 10:30am
MOUNT CALVARY
LUTHERAN CHURCH
308 Mt. Calvary Drive
San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 824-8748
mtcsa.org
Services: Sunday 8:30am and 11am
NORTHWOOD
PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
518 Pike Rd, San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 824-7238
Services:
Sunday mornings at 11am
NORTHROCK CHURCH
ALAMO HEIGHTS
1540 Nacogdoches
San Antonio, TX 78209 northrocksa.com
Services: Sunday mornings at 10am, 11:30am
PEARL STREET CHURCH
400 Pearl Parkway
San Antonio, TX 78215 (210) 504-8897
Services: 9:00am, 10:30am,12pm, 1:30pm
ST. ANDREW’S CHURCH & SCHOOL
722 Robinhood
San Antonio, TX 78209 standrews09.org 210-824-2465
Services: Traditional 9:15 Contemporary Worship 9:30 & 11:00am
ST. ANTHONY DE PADUA CATHOLIC CHURCH
102 Lorenz Road
San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 824-1743
stanthonydepadua.org
Services:
Monday thru Friday 9am, Saturday 5pm Sunday 7:00am, 8:30am (Spanish), 10:30am, 12:30pm
ST. DAVID’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH AND SCHOOL
1300 Wiltshire Ave.
San Antonio, TX 78209 saintdavids.net (210) 824-2481
Services: Sundays at 8am & 10:30am
ST. LUKE’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH
11 Saint Luke’s Lane San Antonio, Texas 78209 slecsa.org - (210) 828-6425
Services: Sunday 8am, 9am, 11am and 6pm Wednesday Eucharist at 8am during the school year
ST. PETER PRINCE OF THE APOSTLES CHURCH
111 Barilla Place
San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 822-3367
stpeterprinceoftheapostles.org
Services:
Saturday Mass 5:30pm Sunday 9am, 11am, and 5:30pm Tuesday and Thursday 7am Wednesday 5:30pm, Friday 8:00am
ST. PIUS X CATHOLIC CHURCH & SCHOOL
3303 Urban Crest Dr
San Antonio TX 78209 (210) 824-0139
spxsa.church Services: Saturday - 4:30pm Sunday - 8:00am, 10:15am, 12:00 pm, 1:30pm (Sp), 5:00pm
Daily Masses: Monday - 6:30pm Tuesday-Friday - 8:15am
TRINITY BAPTIST CHURCH
319 E. Mulberry
San Antonio, TX 78212 (210) 733-6201 trinitybaptist.org
Services: Mulberry Service 9am
Bible Study 10:15am
TriPoint Service 11:30am
UNITY CHURCH
8103 Broadway
San Antonio, TX 78209
unityofsa.org (210) 824-7351
Services: Sunday 11am
Children’s Church 11am
If you are unable to make it to a service, check your church website and see if they are livestreaming so that you can worship from home.
FOR THE LOVE OF ANIMALS
How to Keep Pets Safe When the Temperatures Climb
By the American Red Cross
Never leave your pet in a hot vehicle, even for a few minutes. The inside temperature of the car can quickly reach 120 degrees even with the windows cracked open.
Limit exercise on hot days. Exercise in the early morning or evening hours.
Walk your pet in the grass if possible, to avoid hot surfaces burning their paws. If your pet is outside, make sure they have access to shade and plenty of cool water.
Water safety is important for your furry friends. Do not leave pets unsupervised around a pool—they aren’t all good swimmers.
Watch your pets at a backyard barbecue. Keep them away from the grill and know that some food can be poisonous to them. Avoid raisins, grapes, onions, chocolate, and products with artificial sweeteners.
Heat stroke is a common problem for pets in warmer weather. Dogs with short noses or snouts, like the boxer or bulldog, are especially prone to heat stroke, along with overweight pets, those with an extremely thick fur coat, or any pet with upper respiratory problems such as laryngeal paralysis or collapsing trachea. Some of the signs of heat stroke in your pet are:
Johnny Kothmann, DVM
Chris LaBrie, DVM
1051 Austin Highway, San Antonio (210) 828-3935
August 10: Spoil Your Dog Day
August 22: National Take Your Cat To The Vet Day
According to Remodeling Magazine’s 2024 Cost versus Value Report, replacing your garage door is the #2 home improvement project in San Antonio offering a 149% return on investment!
• Heavy panting and unable to calm down, even when lying down
• Brick red gum color
• Fast pulse rate
• Unable to get up
If you suspect your pet has heat stroke, take their temperature rectally.
• If the temperature is above 105 degrees, cool the animal down. The easiest way to do this is by using the water hose. Stop cooling the animal when the temperature reaches 103 degrees.
• Bring your pet to the veterinarian as soon as possible, as heat stroke can lead to severe organ dysfunction and damage.
Some plants in your garden can be hazardous to animals. Visit the Animal Poison Control Center to find out which plants and flowers are poisonous to animals
726-610-8160
Osaka Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Hibachi is favorite for the little ones! 4902 Broadway www.broadway.osakasteaknsushi.com
Smoke Shack BBQ
Playground is big-kid-approved! 3714 Broadway www.smokeshacksa.com
Tycoon Flats Yard games are a hit! 1017 Austin Highway www.austinhighway.tycoonflats.com
La Fogata Cantina Great for parents, too! 1133 Austin Hwy www.lafogata.com
The Cottage Pub Courtyard patio during the day is spectacular! 3810 Broadway www.thecottageirishpub.com
The Pigpen Neighborhood Bar Grab a drink while the kids play! 106 Pershing Ave www.thepigpensa.com
EZ’s Brick Oven & Grill Classic Kid-Approved. Kids eat free Wednesday 5-close!
6498 N New Braunfels Ave www.ezsrestaurants.com Ida Claire Good music and good ambience! 7300 Jones Maltsberger Rd www.ida-claire.com
Police Blotter
Recovered Stolen Vehicle, Narcotics Violation
An officer working traffic control was alerted to a stolen vehicle license plate by the automatic license plate reader in the patrol vehicle; the vehicle was stopped and the driver detained for further investigation; the stolen alert was confirmed and the driver placed under arrest; post arrest search discovered methamphetamines and related paraphernalia.
06/02/24
900 blk. Cambridge Oval
Assault, Family Violence / Threat, Touch
During a domestic argument a female subject struck a male subject causing pain; female subject issued a citation and released.
07/08/24
200 blk. Arcadia
Theft, Vehicle Parts
Rear mounted spare tires stolen from two vehicles during overnight hours.
07/08/24
Abiso, Argo
Wanted Person
Driver stopped for a traffic violation was found to have an active arrest warrant issued by Bexar County for Deadly Conduct.
07/10/24
5900 blk. Broadway
Forgery, Narcotics Violation, Fraudulent Poss/Use ID Info
Three subjects were taken into custody while attempting to cash a forged check; investigation recovered controlled substances (alprazolam pills), marijuana/marijuana derivatives, and paraphernalia in addition to multiple check books, credit/debit cards and various types of identification belonging to persons not associated with the vehicle or occupants.
07/12/24
400 blk. Austin Hwy
DWI, 2nd offense
Officer on patrol came upon a stopped vehicle with the lights on, engine running and a male subject asleep behind the steering wheel; further investigation determined the subject was under the influence of alcohol and impaired; subject charged with an enhanced offense due to having a previous DWI conviction.
07/13/24
100 blk. Alamo Heights Blvd
Theft > $1500 <$20k, Scam
Resident scammed by persons claiming to be Amazon representatives.
07/17/24
100 blk. Henderson
Harassment
Female victim was followed to her apartment by a male subject who was making lewd and profane comments/suggestions to her; subject contacted on the property and taken into custody.
07/17/24
100 blk. Arcadia
AHPD CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS DIVISION 6116 Broadway
San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 822-2164
Fax (210) 822-7111
Theft
Package delivered to a porch was stolen within minutes of delivery.
07/19/24
100 blk. Elizabeth
Wanted Person
Officers conducted a welfare check on a person lying under a tree covered up; contact made and determined the person was homeless; further investigation discovered the person had an active parole violation warrant for assault on a public servant.
07/21/24
100 blk. Westover
Theft
Cell phone accidentally left in waiting room was stolen.
07/24/24
5400 blk. Broadway
Harassment
Resident reported he and his family are receiving a large volume of texts and harassing phone calls from a female acquaintance.
07/25/24
200 blk. Claywell
Wanted Person
Driver stopped for a traffic violation was found to have three active arrest warrants issued by Bexar County for DWI and Criminal Mischief x2.
07/26/24
5900 blk. Broadway
Narcotics Violation
Vehicle stopped for a traffic violation was searched after the officer smelled a strong odor of burning marijuana coming from the vehicle; marijuana and multiple containers of liquid marijuana derivatives were located in the vehicle.
07/26/24
5100 blk. Broadway
Wanted Person
Officers responding to a disturbance involving skateboarders made contact with five subjects; further investigation discovered one subject had an active arrest warrant issued by San Patricio County for DWI.
07/27/24
6100 blk. Broadway
Wanted Person
Driver stopped for a traffic violation was found to have an active arrest warrant issued by Bexar County for Burglary.
07/27/24
6100 blk. Broadway
- VINTAGE VIEW -
Ernestine Edmunds’ class learning about Texas Independence and San Jacinto Day.
