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IN THIS ISSUE
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 Cover photography by Jason Roberts, makeup by Dora Vera, The Look Makeup & Hair Studio
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profile A sprinkle of determination is the secret ingredient behind Lisa Fullerton’s success with pretzels, cinnamon rolls and advocating for small business.
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feature story Three dog-loving women follow their passion to provide care for (wo)man’s best friends.
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women in commercial real estate Eight women share how a mentoring relationship has made an impact, both personally and professionally.
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home Designer with minimalist aesthetic transforms her King William home from fussy to sleek.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020
business 35
76
38
women’s health
Spotlight Amy House
Dossier Skin Care Specialists
41
Women in Commercial Real Estate
stories
28
26
Women on the Move
lifestyle 54
Fashion
Giving Back Boys & Girls Clubs
58
Role Model Chef Nicola Blaque
70
Guy to Know
72
92
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Minas Chrysopolous, MD
Hill Country Woman
TRENDING
PUMPKIN SPICE
This Fall favorite is more than just delicious. Some of the spices that make up this dreamy flavor (Cinnamon, Ginger, Nutmeg, and Pumpkin) are anti-Inflammatory, help with memory and cognitive function, boost immunity, improve eyesight, and contain antioxidants and potassium that can help prevent heart disease and improve brain function! YUM!
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Beauty
Health
Active Living
Mommy Matters
Mental Health
80
Special Section: Breast Cancer Update
food &
entertainment 96
Hill Country Happenings
98
Hill Country Eats
100
Entertainment
104
Dining Toro Kitchen + Bar
106 SA Eats
AT HOME WORKOUTS
Getting a workout at home is a great way to avoid high traffic areas like the gym, fit exercise into your busy schedule, and watch your favorite classes online! Explore Pinterest and Youtube to find what fits your style, and get creative with items in your house to use as weights.
VIRTUAL LEARNING
Though virtual learning is more of a necessity this year, explore how you can create a space for your kids that is comfortable and productive! Tag-team with other parents on school days and work to establish a schedule for your family that creates a routine.
DIFFERENCE
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CONTRIBUTORS CONTRIBUTORS
Al
Rendon Al
Al Rendon photographs the restaurants and homes seen in San Antonio Woman magazine. “My photographs use light to bring a home’s Al Rendon photographs restaurants and personality to life. When Ithe raise the camera and homes seen in San Antonio Woman magazine. focus on a room’s view, I am composing to “My photographs light to bring home’s express its owners’use personality in thea best light.” personality to life. When I raise the camera and He has had more than a dozen major solo focus on a room’s view, I am composing to exhibits, and his work is in such permanent express its owners’ personality in the best light.” collections as the National Portrait Gallery of the He has had more than a dozen major Smithsonian Institution and the National solo Museum exhibits, and his workArt is in permanent of Mexican in such Chicago. collections as the National Portrait Gallery of the Smithsonian Institution and the National Museum of Mexican Art in Chicago.
Rendon
Jason
Roberts
Christie
Meredith
Christie
Meredith
Cuthbert
Half Texan on her mother’s side, Meredith was Author of “Mom! I Farted in Church” One Type born and raised in Southern California, where she A Mama’s Journey Learning to Laugh and Let graduated from Pepperdine University with a Go, Christie Cuthbert is a mom of four boys Half Texan on her mother’s side, Meredith was Author of “Mom! in She Church” Type degree in Advertising. She has called San Antonio including a set IofFarted triplets. also One writes for born and raised in Southern California, where A the Mama’s Journey Learning to Laugh and Let home for over 25 years now and is raising a she son Today Show Parenting Team and Scary graduated from as Pepperdine University Go, Christie Cuthbert is a mom of four boys and a daughter a single mom with awith packaof Mommy and hosts a podcast, “Laughing All the degree Advertising. She has called Antonio including a set of triplets. rescue in dogs. An incurable foodie withSan an insatiable Way.” You canShe findalso herwrites for home for over 25 years now and is raising son the Today Show Parenting Team and Scary at www.christiecuthbert.com or on Instagram case of wanderlust, she has travelled the a world, and and a daughter as a single withcooking, a pack of Mommy and hosts a podcast, “Laughing All the @christiecuthbert is passionate aboutmom writing, rescue dogs. Anand incurable foodie with an Way.” You can find her insatiable landscaping music of all genres. Meredith is at www.christiecuthbert.com or on Instagram case of wanderlust, she hasintravelled world, usually the loudest person the room,the and she is @christiecuthbert and isup passionate about writing, always for new adventures and cooking, experiences. landscaping and music of all genres. Meredith is usually the loudest person in the room, and she is always up for new adventures and experiences.
Cuthbert
Jenny
Jurica
Jennywriter and columnist Jason studied fine Jason art & theatre at Ohio State Jenny Jurica is a freelance University. He relocated to New York City where who lives near New Braunfels with her he pursued a career in show business and husband, two children, and a houseful of Jason studiedart. fine art & this theatre Ohio State Jenny Juricarotten is a freelance writer columnist commercial During spoiled pets. In her freeand time, Jenny timeathe performed University. He relocated to New York Cityand where who bird-watching, lives near New hiking, Braunfels her to enjoys andwith escaping on Broadway, The Metropolitan Opera, did he pursued a career in show business and husband, two children, and a houseful of the mountains any chance she gets. A born some television work.. Since that time he has commercial art. During this spoiled rotten pets. In her free time, Jenny time he performed and bred Texan, Jenny comes from a long line worked in the commercial art field as a graphic enjoys bird-watching, hiking,who and have escaping to on Broadway, Metropolitan Opera, andled did of strong, Southern women instilled designer and The illustrator which eventually to the mountains any chance she gets. A born some television work.. Since that time he has in her the importance of a thoughtful thank you developing his interests as a photographer and bred Texan, Jenny comes from a long line worked in the commercial art fieldcurrent as a graphic note and a casserole. Jenny is a graduate of video. The lion’s share of Jason’s work is and ofTexas strong, Southern women who have instilled designer and illustrator which eventually led to A&M University--Corpus Christi, where now in photography. in her thestudied importance of a thoughtful thank you developing his interests as a photographer and she Psychology and Counseling. note and a casserole. Jenny is a graduate of video. The lion’s share of Jason’s current work is Texas A&M University--Corpus Christi, where now in photography. she studied Psychology and Counseling.
Roberts
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Kay
Jurica
Kay
David
Teran
David
David - a self-proclaimed people person - is a free-lance photographer that loves to tell people “good morning!” in the afternoon, to try to make David - a self-proclaimed people person - is a them smile. He enjoys coffee, tacos, and writing free-lance photographer thattypewriter. loves to tellWhen people letters on his 1968 German he “good in thehimself afternoon, tothird try toperson, make is notmorning!” writing about in the them smile. Heoften enjoys and writing David can be coffee, found atacos, foreign country, letters on his 1968ballerinas German with typewriter. When he photographing his 40-year-old isHasselblad not writingcamera. about himself in the thirdblessed person,to David has been David can often be found a foreign country, be able to make people smile at his jokes on four photographing ballerinas with hisan40-year-old continents - and to work with awesome Hasselblad camera. David has team of people.been blessed to be able to make people smile at his jokes on four continents - and to work with an awesome team of people.
Teran
Nina
Padilla
Dawn
Robinette
An award-winning writer who enjoys sharing Nina is a local multidisciplinary artist, the stories behind the faces and places that professional photographer, and SA Woman’s new production coordinator. Born and raised in make San Antonio shine, Dawn Robinette has more than 25 years of communications San Antonio, Nina earned a dual bachelors experience and is listed as an expert on the degree in nutrition and foods and dance Alamo City by the San Antonio River Walk performance and choreography from Texas State University. Her love and passion for Association. Despite being told by her high movement and light led her to a fulfilling career school English teacher that she couldn’t write, as a dance and contemporary portrait Dawn has made a career doing just that and is a photographer and her work has been both regular contributor to Alamo City Moms, Rio Magazine and Texas Lifestyle Magazine. locally and internationally published. Nina is excited to bring her love for thearts, public health, and photography to the SA Woman Dream Team.
Steve
Bennett A native Texan, Steve Bennett has written about art, architecture and books for more than 30 years, working for the San Antonio Light, Express-News and Austin AmericanStatesman. Currently a freelance writer and editor, Steve makes a mean platter of green enchiladas and enjoys cycling, British detective shows and the Dallas Cowboys.
Final Thoughts:
Andrea
Sanderson Andrea "Vocab" Sanderson is the first African American, Poet Laureate of San Antonio 2020-2023. Sanderson’s arts career spans over twenty years. She is the winner of the 2019 People’s Choice Award, awarded by Luminaria Artist Foundation. Her debut book entitled: She Lives In Music, Flower Song Press, was released on Valentine’s Day 2020. Her album, She Tastes Like Music, is available on all music streaming platforms. Follow her at: andreavocabsanderson.com Instagram: Vocabulous
KNOW SAINT MARY’S HALL Experience Saint Mary’s Hall: www.smhall.org
Our nurturing, family-oriented community instills values for life, ensuring our students are happy, healthy, and well-rounded. Saint Mary’s Hall does not discriminate in admission or educational programs against qualified students on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national/ethnic origin, or any other status protected by law or SMH policy. SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020
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Photography by Nina Padilla
EDITOR’S LETTER
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020
It happens to me every year. The first cool front blows through, and something stirs inside me. I don’t know if it’s the wind or slightly less humidity that brings fresh energy, but something about Fall inspires me. This issue of San Antonio Woman explores how women across our city tap into their purpose, follow their passions, and make the world a better place because of it. On our cover is Lisa Fullerton, owner of the Auntie Anne’s Pretzel and Cinnabon franchises all around San Antonio. Lisa’s eyes light up when she talks about her journey as a business owner and tells the stories of her personal connection with the founder of Auntie Anne’s Pretzels and the phone call that started her on the path to advocacy for small business owners. It’s clear that Lisa is passionate about finding solutions. Lisa’s joy and energy are inspiring! Speaking of joy and energy, our Feature Story introduces some amazing women who spend their days caring for the best friends a girl can ask for - dogs! I think you’ll agree that the rewards are immediate when you can spend your days caring for furry friends. San Antonio’s Poet Laurette, Andrea “Vocab” Sanderson, honored San Antonio Woman by writing a poem just for you, our fabulous readers. Andrea was inspired by the beautiful art by local artist, Isabelle Lopez Kotara, in writing “The Fall.” I invite you to read Andrea’s poem and enjoy the art that inspired it, on pages 112 and 113. I hope the stories in this issue stir something inside you. From Commercial Real Estate women investing in mentor relationships, to gorgeous Fall capsule wardrobe pieces, to stories of hope from Breast Cancer survivors and health care providers, this issue offers a wide range of topics that speak to the diverse women of our incredible city. Happy reading!
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Miriam Jesaijes PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Nina Padilla DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL MEDIA Taylor Lane CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Rudy Arispe, Kristina Gillen Aderhold, Steve Bennett, Christie Cuthbert, Renee Garvens, Gabriela Garcia Herrera, Jenny Jurica, Meredith Kay, Deborah Levi Lane, Taylor Lane, Mandy Majors, Berit Mason, Bonny Osterhage, Dawn Robinette, Tiffany Rosenberg, Andrea Sanderson, Julia Wesman, Blithe Wiley, Sean Woods PHOTOGRAPHY Nina Padilla, Al Rendon, Jason Roberts, Jorge Tamez, David Teran ADVERTISING SALES Cindy Jennings ADMINISTRATION & CUSTOMER SERVICE Abaigeal Lane PRINTING Shweiki Media, San Antonio, Texas DIRECTOR OF SALES & PARTNERSHIPS Dale Lane EDITOR EMERITUS Beverly Purcell-Guerra PUBLISHED BY Las Tres Muchachas, LLC.
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View expanded content & subscribe to San Antonio Woman: sawoman.com San Antonio Woman is published bimonthly by Las Tres Muchachas Enterprises (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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WHAT’S NEW CASINO NIGHT FUNDRAISER BENEFITING DRESS FOR SUCCESS Dress For Sucess San Antonio will be hosting a virtual Casino Night & Silent Auction on October 24, 2020, from 5-7 pm. Please visit their Facebook page or website to register and purchase raffle tickets for your chance to win some incredible prizes! Up for grabs is a luxurious & relaxing stay at a beautiful Oregon hideaway cabin, a stylish & chic Charleston condo on the infamous Rainbow Row plus airfare, beautiful jewelry, and more! Proceeds directly benefit the organization & help women achieve economic independence by providing a network of support, professional attire, and development tools to help women thrive in work and in life. Contact the organization directly at (210) 737-1515 or visit www.successfulconnections.org to pledge your sponsorship, purchase raffle tickets, or make a donation.
IMPACT: The San Antonio Jewish Oral History Project, a documentary by the National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW), was selected for screening at the 26th annual SAFILM-San Antonio Film Festival from September 16-20. The film chronicles the important role Jews have played in the development of San Antonio while, in parallel, gives a history of the city from the late 1800s during a period of mass immigration and covers many of the seismic events that have shaped this city such as the Flood of ’21, the Pecan Shellers’ Strike, the building of the Medical Center, and many more. IMPACT: The San Antonio Jewish Oral History Project was selected out of hundreds of submissions from around the world. For more info, go to SAFILM. com, ncjwsa.org, or view the film on Vimeo.
NATIONAL COUNCIL OF JEWISH WOMEN’S DOCUMENTARY AT THE SAN ANTONIO FILM FESTIVAL
LOCAL AUTHORS’ COFFEE TABLE BOOK TO BENEFIT RIVER WALK A new book, Si San Antonio, our favorite places, people and things At Christmas, captures the spirit of this unique American city at the most magical time of the year. This coffee table book by co-authors Patricia Hart McMillan and Natalia King-Sun is a gallery of glorious photographs by Natalia. The authors say that it took a village to create this book. The foreword by Archbishop Gustavo Garcia-Siller reminds readers of the Cathedral’s past and present role as the sacred heart of the city. Readers will recognize these and many other residents at the The Guenther House, Zoo, Six Flags, The Pearl, Morris Kaye furriers annual Christmas party, favorite shops, hotels and night spots. “We mean for Si San Antonio, our favorite places, people and things At Christmas to be a loving look at a very special city and its exceptional people who open their hearts and arms to visitors all year long and especially at Christmas,” say the authors.
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SMH SENIORS PARTICIPATING IN THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH’S INTERNATIONAL AWARD ADVENTUROUS JOURNEY
This summer, Saint Mary’s Hall (SMH) had six seniors complete their Adventurous Journey for The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award. The students’ exciting schedule included visits to Natural Bridge Caverns, Lost Pines, Fredericksburg, Port Aransas, Salado Creek, and Canyon Lake, for hiking, zip-lining, kayaking, peach picking, biking, and more. The seniors who participated were: • Annika Blomster – Gold • Chelsea Huffman – Silver • Devika Kumar – Silver • Alana Mitchel – Silver • Eli Greenberg – Silver • Margaret Esquinca - Bronze The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award is a nonformal education and learning framework operating in more than 130 countries and territories around the world, through which young people’s achievements outside of academia are recognized and celebrated. Saint Mary’s Hall is the first Independent Schools Association of the Southwest (ISAS) school and one of only three organizations in Texas to offer this prestigious international development opportunity for students aged 14-19. This award is in close alignment to our core values and mission. As the world’s leading achievement program for young people, it helps prepare students for success in college and fulfillment in life. Learn more at www.smhall.org.
HOTEL VALENCIA RIVERWALK OFFERS FIRST EVER “TANGO IN THE COURTYARD” PACKAGES AS THE IDEAL WAY TO ENJOY AN EVENING OF ARGENTINIANINSPIRED ENTERTAINMENT WHILE SOCIAL DISTANCING
Now through the end of 2020, Hotel Valencia Riverwalk is offering “Tango in the Courtyard” room packages as the perfect way to enjoy a relaxing getaway complete with an evening of superb entertainment. Each Friday and Saturday night, professional tango dancers perform in the center of the hotel’s large third-floor Courtyard. The Courtyard is ringed with deluxe rooms on the third and fourth floor. Guests enjoy the show from their private third-floor patio or private fourthfloor balcony. This one-of-a-kind experience offers guests an evening of entertainment in a completely socially distanced setting. The evening’s performance transports guests to Plaza Dorrego in Buenos Aires, while watching the mesmerizing dance sets and enjoying a bottle of Malbec and Vigilante, a traditional Argentinean cheese dessert. The dancers are Luisa Vasquez, a native of Colombia, and Julio Torres, who is from Puerto Rico. Their cultural backgrounds instilled a passion in both for the wide variety of expressive Latin dance genres. Vasquez has been featured on the popular television show, “America’s Got Talent.”
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PROFILE
Lisa Fullerton Forging Her Way through Adversity with Advocacy BY DAWN ROBINETTE PHOTOGRAPHY BY JASON ROBERTS
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L
isa Fullerton, President and CEO of A Novel Idea, is the force behind the irresistible, mouthwatering delicacies that lure you to the must-have pretzels and Cinnabons in spots like the San Antonio International Airport, North Star Mall, Ingram Park Mall, and The Shops at La Cantera.
those odds, you have to be tenacious and gritty. You’ve got to respond to some things you don’t want to respond to. Failure is not an option. I have too many people depending on me. During difficult times, the hardest part is just continuing to show up. I try not to be defeated by failure. I try to learn from it.“
A Novel Idea (ANI) was established as the entity operating six Auntie Anne’s Pretzels and Cinnabon franchises in San Antonio on September 15, 2000. Like everyone else, Fullerton falls victim to the intoxicating scent. “I worked in the stores for the first three years, every day. And that was sometimes my lunch and my dinner. But I can tell you, in 20 years it has not gotten old. I still eat pretzels and cinnamon rolls every time I walk into a store. But I work in the office, so I don’t have daily access,” she laughs.
That attitude has guided Fullerton’s approach to COVID-19. “The best aspect of a 20-year history is having the benefit of experience to navigate tough times. ANI survived 9-11, and thrived during the 2008 economic downturn, actually adding stores when others were closing. A survivalist has to find ways to reinvent themselves or take advantage of the opportunity of those downturns to ensure future sustainability.”
Fullerton’s link to Auntie Anne’s pre-dates the existence of the popular franchise. She lived next door to the founder, “Auntie” Anne Beiler, in Round Rock in the mid-1980s. “Anne used to cut and perm my hair while serving me the same lemonade we sell today.” The Beilers eventually moved, and Fullerton lost touch, but reconnected a decade later with Anne’s daughters when they moved back to Texas to open the first Austin mall store. “They were talking about their expansion plans in Austin and needed someone with experience in accounting and finance. I’ve always been very driven and not afraid to try new things, so I left my position at an international behavioral science firm to join Auntie Anne’s, helping sophisticate its accounting system and processes.” A year and a half later, she became a franchisee, ultimately landing her first location in North Star Mall, and relocated to San Antonio.
Fullerton’s husband Jim was part of the ANI team until he retired in 2017. Married for 13 years, the couple share five children between them, ranging in age from 25 to 50, as well as three grandchildren. The two love to ride motorcycles in the Hill Country and are avid world-travelers. “I always loved how we managed to navigate a healthy work-life balance. Jim helps me normalize my life. When you work in a business environment that is open seven days a week, 365 days a year at the airport, and 362 days in our malls, it’s important to have the ability to shut it off. Because
“I performed every function in the store while managing personnel, HR, accounting, and inventory. For the first three years, I worked 70-hour weeks because I prefer to lead by example – and that’s what it took.” Making the leap into business ownership was a natural fit for Fullerton. “I love discovering alternatives or developing solutions that work. My favorite aspect of running a business is strategic planning. I’m often told that I’m tenacious, I don’t retreat from difficult situations and sometimes become intense. I prefer to think I’m solution-focused, and I’m a change agent. The more somebody doubts me, the more determined and motivated I am to succeed. I think that attribute has allowed me to stay relevant and remain in business for 20 years. “The average lifespan of food/retail is 7-10 years. To beat
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PROFILE
I am driven and goal-oriented, I can get tunnel vision. He’s helped me step away and realize the work will be there tomorrow. The sun always rises. “It’s easy to allow a seven day work week to hijack my schedule, so I set my alarm early every morning to have dedicated devotional time. With a cup of coffee, Bible in hand, and my pets around my feet, I can ready for the new day’s challenges. It’s the most impactful way for me to stay anchored despite what’s happening in the world around me. If I oversleep, I can tell the difference.” One of the ways Fullerton is navigating COVID is advocating for small business at the city, state, and national level. “You hear the word ‘advocacy,’ and it’s scary and intimidating because it sounds like you need to be an expert at something that you’re advocating for or against. But advocacy is just stating your position and explaining unintended consequences. Advocacy is just people who are willing to stand up and tell their stories. Often, there are people who can mandate your business, who don’t even understand your business. So we must tell our stories to prevent some of those negative consequences from occurring. “Just because I’ve been identified as a small business advocate, doesn’t mean I’m the smartest person about the
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issue at hand. It just means I’m a willing participant. As a result of my earlier conversations at the local and state level, I gained the confidence to speak with two U.S. Congressmen about the impact COVID had on those of us in the hospitality industry. Because I had developed a relationship with them over the years, I had access when it came time to discuss serious concerns when Congress was drafting the PPP criteria and the ensuing Flexibility Act.” Fullerton currently serves on Governor Abbott’s Small Business Assistance Advisory Task Force and was appointed by Mayor Nirenberg to the Paid Sick Leave Advisory Commission in 2019. “It evolved from people asking, ‘How would this impact you, and will you share your story?’ So I went to Washington D.C. and discovered Legislators often had no idea of the adverse impact legislation had on their constituents. So I began being asked to share my experience and opinion more frequently. It shows the importance of sharing our story and the impact it can have on public policy.” Because Fullerton believes in purposes greater than herself, one of ANI’s core values is to be intentionally charitable. “Auntie” Anne Beiler founded the company with a motto that reflected its purposeful community partnership: “We give, to get, to give again.” Knowing that a business can only give out of its surplus, it’s critical for ANI to be profitable and good
stewards of its resources. Since 2011, ANI has raised and donated over $175,000.00 to two of its charitable partners: The San Antonio Clubhouse (supports adults with mental health diagnoses) and Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (to fund childhood cancer research).
She also advises women to follow their instincts. “I’ve had a few leasing opportunities I felt pressured to accept that I knew in my gut weren’t right. And ultimately, we had to retire an underperforming store. My biggest regret - and most valuable lesson - was not listening to my gut when I should have.
Fullerton’s efforts to support and represent the small business community were recognized when she received the NFIB Small Business Champion Award in 2019 and the International Franchising Association “Give Back Award” in 2018.
“I think being a woman has worked to my advantage because I can be hard-driving and directive when the circumstances dictate, but I can also be sensitive to other’s feelings when it matters the most. I don’t expect people to treat me differently because I’m female. I’d expect people to treat me with respect because that’s the right thing to do, not because I’m a woman.“
While she didn’t plan on becoming a voice for small businesses, Fullerton believes it’s where she’s meant to be. “My dad’s favorite saying was ‘experience is not hereditary. So you have to forge your own way.’” When asked to offer guidance to others considering starting a business, Fullerton offers, “Endeavor in something you enjoy enough that it doesn’t feel like it’s work. I’ve heard business owners say, ‘I tried to create a business out of my hobby, and all it did was ruin the hobby for me. I tried to make money off of something that was my outlet. And now, my outlet is what’s driving my time and energy. So it’s no longer my respite.’”
No matter how successful she is today, Fullerton stays grounded by thinking of how it all started. “I have to remember how many people it took to get the business where it is today - the dedication of family in those early years, and our loyal customers. We are fortunate to have long-term staff I depend on who do much of the heavy lifting now. It’s because of them that I’m able to be proactive instead of reactive. I can afford the time spent on advocacy because I know the day-to-day operations are being run by exemplary, loyal and committed team members.”
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FEATURE
Love for the
Dogs of
BY MEREDITH KAY PHOTOGRAPHY BY JASON ROBERTS
They say that a dog is a man’s best friend, but that old saying is not entirely accurate. Dogs are loyal and reliable companions to anyone who shows them love and kindness. Some of us go a bit overboard in our passion for these furry, four-legged creatures, and there are even those who have dedicated their lives and careers to making dogs lives a little better. It is estimated that nearly 70% of all U.S. households own at least one dog. This creates a huge industry worth billions of dollars, and many opportunities for savvy, dogloving entrepreneurs. San Antonio is a very dog-friendly city, and there are some amazing women working very hard to protect and provide services for our beloved pooches.
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Rebecca Mayberry Director of San Antonio Pets Alive It’s a common sight in some areas of San Antonio to see stray dogs roaming the streets. Overpopulation is a real problem in our city and other cities throughout Texas. Sadly, many of these stray dogs, as well as those that are surrendered by their owners because they no longer want them or can no longer care for them, will be put down. The city’s Animal Care Services facility does not have the space to keep every dog they pick up. It is a grim reality in San Antonio. Still, organizations are working very hard to save these dogs’ lives, and San Antonio Pets Alive! is one of the premier organizations. SAPA is the only animal rescue organization with a dedicated facility on the campus of the city’s municipal shelter. It’s here where tireless SAPA employees and volunteers monitor the capacity at Animal Care Services, and have the opportunity to pull dogs directly from the euthanasia list when the shelter is overcrowded. At the helm of this amazing organization is Rebecca Mayberry. Rebecca transferred from Phoenix, where she was born and raised, just six years ago. She worked with the Petco Foundation and was also very active with Boxer Love Rescue in Phoenix. Her career, as well as her love for animals, led her to become involved with SAPA almost three years ago. She became the Executive Director in 2018. SAPA began its mission in 2011 with a few animal lovers and limited resources and has since grown into a dynamic organization that has saved over 53,000 lives since its inception. The organization has seen its share of ups and downs, but under Mayberry’s leadership, SAPA has grown into one
of the most successful rescue groups in town. Relying solely on donations from the community and grants from animal-loving foundations, San Antonio Pets Alive! can pull nearly 5,500 dogs and cats from “death row” per year. It is a testament to their staff’s dedication, amazing foster families, hard-working board members, and their efforts to educate the community about the city’s overpopulation problem. Rebecca states, “It takes a servant’s heart to make a difference in animals’ lives. San Antonio Pets Alive! is in the trenches, and we operate without the luxury of a large shelter facility. We rely on our partnerships and the public.” One of the most significant accomplishments for Mayberry has been to expand the San Antonio Pets Alive! foster program. There are currently around 800 foster families dedicated to taking in dogs and cats to care for them and actively work toward
getting them adopted. Mayberry would like to see this number grow to 1,000 in the coming years, and wants the public to understand that there are many different ways to get involved. “We often need volunteers to help us transport animals between our facility at Animal Control, off Highway 151 to our medical facility, on Marbach Road. We also need people to help with picking up and delivering supplies, people to walk the dogs and give them a chance to get out of the kennels for a little while, as well as volunteers to make blankets and slip lead leashes.” As a city, San Antonio has a long way to go in order for us to be considered a “no-kill” city, but with San Antonio Pets Alive! and the tireless devotion and leadership of Rebecca Mayberry, we are headed in the right direction. Monetary donations to the organization are most needed right now, and all the information can be found at www. sanantoniopetsalive.org.
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FEATURE Christie Gonzales General Manager of Lucy’s Doggy Daycare & Spa Most of us never think that our very first job as a teenager will turn into a life-long calling or career, but for Christie Gonzales, General Manager for Lucy’s Doggy Daycare and Spa, that is exactly how things turned out. Christie is an outgoing and enthusiastic lady whose eyes light up when she talks about her love for dogs. She began her career at Lucy’s when she was just 16 years old at their original location off Thousand Oaks Drive. She continued to work for the company throughout high school and college, as the company grew. She experienced all aspects of what it takes to run a boarding kennel, grooming salon, and doggy daycare. Lucy’s now has three locations in San Antonio and continues to expand its concept with partners like Traveling Tails Veterinary Clinics. A graduate of McArthur High School, Christie earned her degree in Education from U.T.S.A. She recently returned to become the General Manager of Lucy’s after a few years teaching in the public school system, and feels that her calling is to provide the best care for our fourlegged friends and their owners. The original Lucy was the beloved pup of Lucy’s owner, Max Golman, who established Lucy’s Doggy Daycare & Spa in 2005 with the mission to become the premier daycare, boarding, and grooming facility in town. Lucy has since crossed over the rainbow bridge, but her legacy remains strong. Christie’s enthusiasm shows when she proudly shows off their newest facility on Loop 1604 and Vance Jackson. It is a large facility with self-serve dog washing stations for those who don’t
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want to have the hassle of cleaning up the bathroom after bathing a particularly dirty dog. For owners who would rather have somebody else do the dirty work, Lucy’s offers affordable dog grooming services by highly trained and experienced groomers. All grooming and bath appointments include a nail trim, ear cleaning, and a blow-dry. For those truly pampered pooches, Lucy’s also offers shed reduction treatments, teeth brushing, therapeutic massages, and facial scrubs. Lucy’s has become most popular, however, for their daycare services. It’s not uncommon for the 1604 location to doggy-sit for nearly 100 dogs per day. Christie states, “When an owner drops their baby off for doggy daycare, they become our babies for the day, and we love on them and care for them as if they are our own.” Lucy’s even specializes in nervous dogs, working with them to help them become more social and comfortable being around other dogs. For those pups that would still prefer to maintain their distance, Lucy’s also features solo dog yards.
The focus at Lucy’s, which is evident in each of their employees, is customer service at its highest level and safety. Each of the doggy daycare and boarding team members is trained to keep a close eye on the play sessions and recognize any aggressive behavior symptoms or conflicts. Big dogs and little dogs are segregated, and the play yards feature splash pools, misters, pup-friendly playground equipment, and toys. Each full-day visitor has up to seven hours of pure playtime, and the facilities feature live webcams so that you can log-in to watch your baby in action. Your pup is guaranteed to be as tired as you are after a long day. Christie describes the atmosphere at Lucy’s as being very family-oriented. She says, “With our three locations and the business still growing, Lucy’s might seem like a big company, but we strive to create an environment for our guests that feels like home.” Everyone you encounter at Lucy’s is amiable and outgoing, but who wouldn’t be if you got to play with puppies all day long.
Deena & Mandy Masson Owners of Greener Grooming Everyone knows the importance of eating a healthy and balanced diet, even if we don’t always follow the advice of medical professionals and experts. We know that our health and well-being is contingent on what we put into our bodies, and the same holds for our four-legged friends, whether we want to believe it or not. There is a lot of genuinely unhealthy pet food on the market today, and one San Antonio business is on a mission to educate dog owners on the best ways to keep our dogs healthy and active for many years. Deena and Mandy Masson are two dynamic ladies that own Greener Grooming in Universal City. They opened their boutique and salon in 2008 at the corner of Kitty Hawk and Pat Booker Road, and they have created quite a following of loyal customers with their wealth of knowledge about pet health. It all started when Deena was battling her own health issues. She needed to change her diet drastically to only natural foods with no chemicals or toxins. She was raised as an “Army kid” and moved around a lot, eventually settling in San Antonio and attending Clemmons High School. With close monitoring of her diet and taking note of what made her feel healthy and what didn’t, Deena was able to control her symptoms and live an active and comfortable life. She then transferred what she learned about her health and decided to focus her knowledge on how these same ideas could help her dogs, and the dogs she saw as a grooming specialist, live healthier lives. She says, “If changing my diet can make this kind of change in my health, then I’m going to treat my dogs like I treat
myself, and make sure that they are getting the healthiest food available.” Deena becomes very passionate when she talks about the importance of feeding dogs a healthy and holistic diet. She says that processed kibble is not a natural food for a dog. It doesn’t exist in nature, and it is causing so many health problems in our pets. Deena and Mandy, a San Antonio native and a graduate of Jefferson High School, continue to work with raw food specialists and experts in animal nutrition to carry the highest quality products to bring to their customers. They tell us that it is important to change your dog’s diet as they age, just like it is for humans. Different proteins offer different nutritional benefits at various stages in their lives. It’s also important to add fruits and vegetables to their diets once in a while. Deena stresses, “Dogs cannot process plant fiber. It does not break down well in their systems, but it can definitely offer significant health benefits when puréed and added to a healthy carnivore diet.” The processed kibble made from grain fillers and meat by-products is the main reason that we see such an increase in dog diseases, like pancreatitis. By just adding puréed blueberries and
spinach to your dog’s diet, you are providing enzymes that the pancreas doesn’t create, which helps break down the processed ingredients found in commercial kibble. Deena also emphasizes that goat’s milk is one of the best things that you can mix in with your dog’s food, as it is full of immunityboosting elements and probiotics that aid in digestion. She says, “We get to know the owner and the dog before recommending a change, and usually we recommend adding nutritional supplements to their diets, rather than a complete dietary overhaul.” Any small change that you can make to help your dog be healthier will be a positive change and help your dog live a longer and happier life. Any dog owner will tell you that life with a four-legged friend is a richer life. Unlike cats, dogs offer unconditional and attitude-free love when they are loved in return. They rely on us for everything, and in return, they give us companionship, comfort, and happiness. If you are a dog lover, then you understand this. If you have never experienced a dog’s love, then maybe it’s time to roll around on the floor with one, or even a litter of puppies, and discover one of heaven’s greatest gifts to humankind.
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GIVING BACK
Boys & Girls Clubs of San Antonio
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oys & Girls Clubs of San Antonio has been helping kids in our community for over 81 years, serving more than 7,000 youth last year. Many youths live in neighborhoods where they are challenged with high poverty and low academic expectations. However, at the Boys & Girls Clubs, these youth enter into a stable, fun environment offering access to the highest quality programs and support. The mission of the club is to ensure that every club member, regardless of their income, their neighborhood, or their ethnicity, graduates from high school with a plan for their future is our highest priority.
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BY RENEE GARVENS
With the onset of the pandemic, BGCSA immediately identified that food insecurity was a significant problem in the neighborhoods we serve. During the weeks that the clubs were closed, staff distributed 2,441 Club on the Go Care Packages filled with essential supplies and activities for children and emergency food for 6,522 families. With the safety of our members and staff as our first priority, BGCSA re-opened five clubhouses for summer programming on June 1 with limited capacity. This summer, just over 300 children attended the Clubs each day, restoring our members’ sense of safety and belonging and engaging
them in fun educational activities to prepare them for the coming school year. Nearly all Club kids come from low-income families and 97% are minorities. When schools went online in March, 13% of low-income students completely disengaged and these numbers were much higher for minority students. Most Club parents are front-line workers without the option of working from home, putting their children at an increasing disadvantage with schools remaining closed because of the pandemic. To ensure that the kids who need us most have academic support in the virtual learning environment,
beginning August 17, BGCSA opened the “learning pod� program. Each small group has an Academic Aide and other staff to help them be successful in the virtual classroom, offering guidance, answering questions, and assisting with technology issues. BGCSA will maintain the flexibility to shift our model as necessary to ensure that the most vulnerable kids stay engaged in school and have the guidance they need in a supportive, stable environment that they can
count on when their parents cannot be at home. After they complete their school day, staff provide youth with our traditional afterschool programs offering tutoring, special classes for struggling readers, social-emotional learning, positive life skills, sports, arts, and other fun enrichment activities! Our partnership with the San Antonio Food Bank ensures that members have a meal every day. This vital program will cost members
just $20 per month which is only possible through the generous support of our community. BGCSA is committed to providing the full day Learning Pod program for as long as San Antonio families need us, ensuring youth thrive in a virtual learning environment and parents have the support they need while they work to provide for their families. To learn more or make a donation visit www.begreatsa.org.
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ROLE MODEL
Chef Nicola Blaque “I
Chef Nicola Blaque, the chef and owner of The Jerk Shack and the new Mi Roti, isn’t letting COVID19 derail her mission to share the flavors of the Caribbean with everyone.
Taking One Step at a Time is a Recipe for Success
BY DAWN ROBINETTE PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID TERAN
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have mixed feelings about the pandemic. We have to learn how to live with it. When I was in the Army, I would be deployed and think, I hate my life right now, you know? But this is my life. I have to learn how to live in this environment. I have to learn how to adapt and be away from my family. You just have to learn how to overcome all of that. You have to accept the challenges.” Blaque has certainly done that during COVID-19. She grew her business, opening Mi Roti, a new concept in the
Bottling Department at the Pearl. She and her husband Cornelius Massey also welcomed Champion, their newborn son born in April, and are expanding The Jerk Shack, opening a second location on San Antonio’s northwest side in the spring of 2021. How do you do all of that in the midst of a world shutdown? “Just being consistent and working on something every day. That’s all that I’ve done. I’ve done a little bit every day. No day goes by where I’m not thinking about work or thinking about business. I’m just doing a little bit every day.”
That course of action goes well with how she approaches life in general. “Stay calm. There are so many different challenges every day, and you’re not going to be able to overcome them all. It’s best to stay calm, get a little organized in your thoughts, your processes, your mind, and take one step at a time.” Blaque has had a passion for cooking since she was a child. “I remember cooking with my mom and my aunts and my sisters, wondering how to make all these different foods, and it just stayed with me. When I was in the military, I would cook all the time. When I was in the barracks, I would cook for the soldiers. I would share with my battle buddies, what I grew up eating, the foods of my culture.” She served as a logistics specialist in the U.S. Army for ten years, with multiple deployments to both Iraq and Afghanistan. When she left the Army, her lifelong passion for cooking ultimately led her to the Culinary Institute of America at the Pearl. After graduating from the CIA, she opened a successful catering business. Then a trip home to Jamaica gave her an idea. “I was inspired. We ate at a little jerk stand and, I told my husband it’d be cool if we could bring this back—that people could enjoy this vibe.” Cue The Jerk Shack. “I had a low goal in mind when I opened. I thought, if people come, then we’ll sell some jerk chicken. If they don’t come, we’re OK, because we still have catering.”
Restaurants in America, confirming what devoted San Antonio foodies already knew. GQ Magazine named it as one of its top new restaurants earlier this year, describing The Jerk Shack as “the finest Caribbean fare in the Lone Star State — maybe anywhere.“
They’ve also read about my sous chef, Chef Imani, and they want to meet us and take pictures. So I feel like the world is starting to change. But it’s a slow change. When I started, people didn’t take me seriously until they saw me written about.”
“I never imagined that my restaurant would be written about like that. Jamaica is my home. It’s where I was born. I’ve always shared it with people. So to me, it was just sharing it with people. When people are saying you’re the best or you’re the best in the city, or you’re one of the best in the nation, it’s very humbling. At the same time, I feel like I’m just paying homage to my ancestors and paying homage to the great chefs before me.”
Blaque hasn’t let the attention and accolades change her. “People have told me that I’m very successful, but I don’t feel like I’m at a point where I can say that I’m fully successful. I’ve created some things that have the possibility of being successful, but until something’s running for four or five years, it’s not fully successful to me yet.
The Jerk Shack spotlights the flavors of Blaque’s native Jamaica, while Mi Roti builds inspiration from the West Indies and the Caribbean. Even with the success and accolades, Blaque doesn’t always get credit in the traditionally male-dominated culinary industry. “If my husband’s with me, they assume that he’s the chef. I am the owner; this is all my vision. I wish that people understood that there are women chefs that are executives. We’re not just line cooks or preppers. We hold major roles.” “At The Jerk Shack, we have out of towners that have read about me.
“We’re three years in, and I feel like there’s a lot I still have to learn. There’s still a lot I don’t know. What I do know is that I’m always going to put the best food out as possible and make sure that my customers are happy and my employees are happy. And if that’s the definition of success and maybe I’m there, or maybe I’m not.” But she’s definitely not taking her foot off the gas. “What’s truly inspiring to me is just being able to see my food being received well. Caribbean food, to me, needs to be brought to a national level. And seeing that I’m able to do that, seeing it recognized nationally, seeing people eat it and love it? That’s what’s driving me right now.”
On opening day, 3,000 people showed up. “We were flooded with a huge blessing.” The crowds came back, again and again. And the accolades began rolling in. The Jerk Shack was featured by Eater.com as one of the Top 16 New
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GUY TO KNOW
Dr. Minas Chrysopoulo Breast Reconstruction Microsurgeon PRMA Plastic Surgery Surgeon, App Designer, World Traveler: Dr. C is changing the lives of breast cancer survivors everywhere BY CHRISTIE CUTHBERT PHOTOGRAPHY BY NINA PADILLA
Born in Athens, Greece, raised in London and having spent his professional years in Wisconsin and Texas, one could argue Dr. Minas Chrysopoulo has experienced culture shock a few times in his life.
“A
t one point, I was invited to chop wood,” he said with a laugh. “I had no idea why anyone would ask me to do that, not understanding at the time it was considered a social activity.” The son of a Greek sailor, “Dr. C” as he’s known, spent countless hours bonding with his dad over the military as a child. That time together influenced him to become a microsurgeon who specializes in reconstructive surgery. Now the President of PRMA Plastic Surgery, he’s one of the leaders in microsurgery for breast reconstruction after cancer,
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and he’s hoping to expand and help more women know their options. You were raised and educated in London. What made you come to Texas? I left because the medical system there wasn’t really supportive of what I wanted to do. I spent time at Emory University in Atlanta doing an externship and fell in love with medicine in the U.S. That’s when I decided I should move. I fell in love with the people and the work ethic here. And surely the climate helped. It’s so much easier to be happy when the sun is out.
Your father was part of the Greek Merchant Navy, and you credit him for influencing your decision to become a surgeon. How did he sway you? My dad was a massive history buff. Whenever he’d turn on the telly, his first choice program would always be something about the World Wars, or any military history. So I would sit with him and watch all these programs, and it was really World War I when reconstructive surgery began. You had people coming back from war with massive facial injuries. It was all about reconstructing their wartime injuries. Watching these shows served as a means of bonding with my dad, and after that, I was exposed to different types of surgeries. I’ve had breast cancer in my family, so breast reconstruction was a niche that really hit home for me. You’re known for microsurgery, particularly the DIEP Flap surgery which allows women to use their own body tissue to reconstruct their breasts after a mastectomy, versus using implants. What’s involved in this procedure and why is it a good option? Many women who have gone through cancer aren’t comfortable putting in implants for one reason or another, and the DIEP Flap surgery allows them to reconstruct their breasts with their own body tissue. We can take some tissue from the belly area, which has the same consistency as the breast. We can also connect nerves and provide feeling. Many women don’t know their options. They go in for the mastectomy and then talk about implants down the road, but the DIEP Flap can be performed the very same day so the patient can walk in and out with their breasts intact. The procedure has been around 15 years, and we’ve been told we’re the busiest practice in the world.
Less than 5 percent of microsurgeons restore feeling with breast reconstruction, so the fact that we can is massive. You see roughly 300 patients a year, yet an average 300,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer each year in the U.S. How are you trying to reach more patients and inform them of their options? A lot of women aren’t told about reconstruction, and of those that are, only 25 percent are told about all the different options. The work I do is very fulfilling but also aggravating because all women should know their options. That’s why I created the app Breast Advocate. At this point in my career, I’ve got to think big picture. Breast Advocate offers women a chance to match their personal preferences with what potential reconstruction they may be interested in. How is it helping women with breast cancer? It offers information and education. It’s about shared decision making, something that’s been part of medicine for a long time. It’s the standard of care, but not always the standard of practice. You’ve mentioned that four main people influenced you in your personal and professional journey, and you’re now doing the same for young doctors. Why is that guidance important? I’ve managed to come across people every step of the way who have
supported me and taken me under their wing. When I think back to all those times in life that someone told me I couldn’t do something or not to follow my ambitions, I realize the importance of those few supportive individuals in my life. Along with participating in lectures, writing for medical journals, helping your patients and more, what do you enjoy outside of work? We travel a lot. My kids, Santianna, 16, and Thea, 8, are very active. Tennis is a big thing in our family. We also love different cuisines. A rule in our family is you always have to try it. You can’t say no, you must try it. My daughter was just saying the other day, “You know what guys, you have really hosed me for college, because I won’t be able to afford the food I want to eat!” Their palates have always been advanced for their age, because my wife, Amanda, and I are foodies.
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Easy online application Quick closing See complete rates and terms and apply today at MyGenFCU.org/Mortgage or call 210-230-9380 *Rates are effective as of 4/7/2020. All loans are subject to approval. Rates and terms are subject to change without notice and may vary based on creditworthiness or specific loan details. Fees may apply. The rates provided above assume the purpose of the loan is to purchase a property, with a loan amount of $136,000 and an estimated property value of $170,000, with an effective Annual Percentage Rate of 3.066% (30-year fixed rate mortgage) or 2.628% (15-year fixed rate mortgage). Different rates apply for cash out transactions. The property is located in San Antonio, TX and is within Bexar County. The property is an existing single family home and will be used as a primary residence. An escrow (impound) account is required. The rate lock period is 30 days and the assumed FICO score is 680. To be eligible for these products and services, you must live, work, worship, volunteer, attend school or own a business in Atascosa, Bandera, Bexar, Comal, Guadalupe, Kendall, Medina and/or Wilson County, Texas. All immediate family members of those listed above are also eligible for membership
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W o m e n in
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Overcoming Challenges Though the global pandemic has presented some challenges for our business owners, it has allowed us an opportunity to witness incredible strength and determination. We have seen some of our members embrace the opportunity to completely transform themselves and their businesses during this time. As an organization, we are committed to keeping our members connected and helping them to discover new and innovative ways to maintain their businesses. No matter the path, as NAWBO women business owners we have linked arms and we are moving forward together! For more on the value NAWBO can bring to you, call us at 210-260-6246 or visit us www.nawbosa.org.
National Chapter of the
YEAR
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LouAnn Wagner President NAWBO 2020-21
SPOTLIGHT
Amy House
SPOTLIGHT
BUSINESS COACH PHOTOGRAPHY BY MELISSA RAELYNN PHOTOGRAPHY
San Antonio Woman asked Business Coach and Vlogger Amy House how she helps business owners, executives and teams find the best in business and life. What career path led you to where you are today? I originally earned my Masters to provide counseling in private practice. However, I discovered that my love for the business would lead me into the corporate arena leading teams, providing training programs, and coordinating communications for strategic growth. Tell us about your business and how you help companies to grow. Growin’ Out Loud Darlin’ LLC has been providing business owners and business teams with consulting for strategic growth and executive coaching for over five years. Training and workshops allow us to provide business, teams, and industries with hands-on learning and skills to implement immediately with impact. We also utilize our expertise in marketing and public relations to help businesses and leaders get their services and products seen on the most costeffective platforms.
Growin’ Out Loud Darlin’ LLC powerhouseamy@growinoutlouddarlin.com www.growinoutlouddarlin.com Check her out on Facebook: www.facebook.com/GrowinOutLoudDarlin/ Instagram: www.instagram.com/growin_out_loud_darlin/ Or her website: www.growinoutlouddarlin.com
What trends have you seen in business coaching that has been helpful to your clients? I do not think it is a trend; just the core reason my clients seek a business coach. I find that business owners and executives all seek accountability. They are the biggest risk-takers in any organization. Growth, however, is always scary. By utilizing a coach or a consultant, they create accountability and additional ‘skin in the game’ to move the needle and achieve goals and growth necessary for business success. A coach provides a business owner with extra push, feedback, encouragement and problem-solving ideas. What do you like best about your job? The best part of what I do is watching others celebrate the success THEY achieve. The coaching process unlocks so much more than just hitting a sales goal. It can help a business leader create a powerful business culture. It can inspire personal growth. It can lead to new ideas and innovation. I find my client’s fulfillment in their experience to be the most rewarding part of my business.
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Laura Salaburu Vice President - Investments
If 2020 has shown us anything, it is that change is an expected constant. For this reason, the need to adapt to any and all changes in the lives of my clients is foundational to helping them reach their long term goals. I believe that maintaining a long term focus remains important. I also believe that personal care and attention I am committed to providing my clients better enables them to absorb these same headlines. I help my clients develop a sound investment plan, and together we remain focused on that plan. Service is so very important. As a Financial professional, I see my role in taking care of my clients as being both their financial coach and advocate for all that is in their best interest. I believe this is one reason why so many of the relationships I have formed through the years have chosen to work with me as their full service financial advisor. I work with many types of clients. I assist both divorced and widowed women, families, and business owners with a wide range of products and services that include business retirement and transition plans. My investment discipline requires me to first truly know and understand what is in the best long term interest in the lives of my clients. That is why any investment plan that is put in place needs to be an appropriate plan that is both nimble and transparent. Developing a plan also requires an in-depth explanation of the costs and the potential risks and benefits of different investment structures. Every client is different in their needs, life goals, legacy and dreams – both financial and non-financial, and I strive to maintain an equal focus on costs, transparency and appropriateness regarding the unique products and services that make up any long term investment plan. My clients are of the utmost importance to me. I know this is easily said, but it is my philosophy, and the influence and relationships with my clients that guides me in my profession. With over 20+ years in the industry, I have seen and navigated many market cycles, walked with my clients through dramatic and even sudden family events, and helped families and business owners plan for their dreams. As a tenured and experienced female advisor, I believe I also have a unique ability to assist widows, divorced women and female business owners in a very unique way.
Wells Fargo Advisors 13703 N. Interstate 10 San Antonio, TX 78249 210-200-1171 https://home.wellsfargoadvisors.com/ Laura.Salaburu
Investment and Insurance Products: NOT FDIC-Insured/NO Bank Guarantee/MAY Lose Value Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. This is a paid advertisement.
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Dossier Skin Care Specialists
The search for the fountain of youth continues! You don’t have to go far, though. As the aesthetics industry gains popularity and grows each year, the widely accepted risks and taboos of the past are slowly starting to fade away. For those looking to dive into the cosmetic experience, the innovative procedures to maintain a youthful glow are more attainable than you might think. From topical treatments to fillers to non-surgical facial restructuring, the medical cosmetics industry might be the answer to your prayers. Whether you have gone under the needle, are considering any of the countless services offered by aestheticians, or have vowed to stay “au natural,� read on for insight into the world of cosmetic enhancements.
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REFINED AESTHETICS Brenda Blagg, Lori Campos and Traci Lopez, Founders 4219 McCullough Ave #2, Olmos Park, Texas 78212, 210-253-9243 • www.RefinedAestheticsSA.com
What services do you provide? Botox, Dermal fillers, PDO Threads, Biostimulators, Microneedling, Skin Tightening & Body Contouring, IPL skin treatments, Medical grade skincare, Hydrafacial Is there anything you would like women to know about your industry? The industry that we are in is extremely competitive and somewhat saturated. We feel that it is important to set ourselves apart by building a rapport with each patient so that they feel comfortable and confident with each and every treatment they receive. What is the most common question clients ask? “Will I bruise?” This is the most common question clients ask when planning to schedule and move forward with a treatment. Our goal is to not cause any bruising; however, injecting into vascular areas can cause inflammation and bruising, which is out of our control. We do carry postprocedure supplements to assist in healing.
When should women schedule an appointment? Women should schedule appointments at least two weeks before any major events. What new developments in your field excite you the most? We are excited about the many evolving products from PDO threads to non-invasive devices available to achieve results without surgery and minimal downtime. Describe your business philosophy in three words: Quality, Care, Safety What is the most rewarding part of your work? We are helping women look and feel better both inside and out. Refined Aesthetics was founded by three women who believe it is not selfish to prioritize your self-care. We are here to offer the best anti-aging treatments available to keep you looking and feeling refreshed.
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ommercial C Real Estate
Mentors
Commercial Real Estate
Mentorships Matter in a Male-Dominated Industry BY: JENNY JURICA PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID TERAN
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he real estate industry can often feel insulated and competitive, especially for women in the profession, and the commercial real estate segment of the industry is no different. However, mentorship can add value to the careers and personal lives of both the mentor and the “mentee.” Mentorships offer a safe space to learn, grow, and even make mistakes, all within the
bounds of a nurturing and supportive professional relationship. Being a “mentee,” under the guidance of a seasoned professional can be hugely advantageous; however, acting as a mentor can often prove to be just as fulfilling and valuable. For the following women, all affiliated (in some capacity) with the world of commercial real
estate, participating in a mentorship has proven to be a life-changing and important discovery in their career. Forming relationships with those whom you admire and seek to emulate is a crucial part of professional and personal advancement, and these ladies are reaping the benefits of forming strong connections within their industry.
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hristi Griggs started her career as an interior designer but, six years in, had a nagging feeling that there was something different that she should be doing. After putting herself out there, asking questions, and reaching out to others, Griggs found her way to commercial real estate and has thrived in the synergy of the profession for the past 19 years. Griggs supplemented her Bachelor of Science degree in Interior Design from UTSA with CCIM (Certified Commercial Investment Member) classes and completed a Master’s level program for real estate and finance. Griggs is the first to admit that the mentorship relationships that she’s fostered throughout her career have enriched her path.
Christi Griggs,
WOMEN IN COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE
Having served as a mentee as well as a mentor, Griggs understands the value of having a fluid relationship with a fellow professional to help “weed out the noise,” that often comes along with a fast-paced career in real estate.
Chelsea Hejny
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Griggs’ current mentee is Chelsea Hejny, an associate at CBRE, whom she met through an unrelated real estate transaction. “I recognized her tenacity and her spirit before I realized that we’d be working together,” said Griggs. Hejny likens the good fortune of getting Griggs as her mentor to getting to work with Facebook COO Sheryl Sandberg. “That’s the level I feel I’ve come into working with Christi. She’s the best, and our working relationship feels meant to be,” explains Hejny. Griggs’ excitement is palpable when she speaks of Hejny’s professional drive and ambition. “She is like a bucking bronco, waiting on the chute to open so that she can just go...that’s Chelsea.”
Sarah Esserlieu
“It helps to identify the types of things that you want to improve upon as a person and a professional. Find a person who does that really well and reach out to them,” added Esserlieu. One professional organization to which Esserlieu belongs that fosters such mentorships is CREW (Commercial Real Estate Women). Cindy Cohn, CCIM and Principal of Springboard Consulting, has been a member of CREW for 22 years and now heads up the organization’s mentorship program. “We have teachers who teach us math, science and history. Why don’t we have a teacher who teaches us how to advocate for ourselves? CREW gives us women to pattern ourselves after,” said Cohn.
Esserlieu, a UTSA graduate with a Master of Science in Urban and Regional Planning, has had several mentors throughout her career and feels strongly about having peers to help shape and guide one’s professional development.
Cindy Cohn
S
arah Esserlieu is passionate about urban planning and aiding in the revitalization efforts of cities. As a student, Esserlieu watched her aunt, Lisa Nungesser (who had a successful career in transportation and environment planning), forge a path for women in urban planning. This influence helped stoke the fires of Esserlieu’s budding interest in the field. In fact, Esserlieu counts her aunt as one of her formative mentors.
“I don’t want women to be passed over for something because they didn’t know they had to ask for what they want or need,” said Cohn.
“You have to be honest with yourself about your strengths and weaknesses,” said Esserlieu.
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WOMEN IN COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE
Elize Pruske
Dahlgren pivoted away from a career in medicine to pursue a career in commercial real estate under the guidance of her aunt. “In retrospect, Elize has always been a mentor to me, with or without holding that title. I’ve always aspired to have her initiative, drive, and disposition,” Dahlgren added. As Pruske explains it, the ideal mentor should,“Bring knowledge and experience to the relationship, along with guidance and insight, while also providing introductions and connections to business and industry networks.” And, as Dahlgren achieves her goal of completing her Master’s degree in December, she reflects on her experience as Pruske’s mentee.
“She had a dining room table with a black rotary dial telephone and an oversized Rolodex with all of her listings in it. I remember flipping through the listings. I just knew that I wanted to be a businesswoman like her,” recalled Pruske. Pruske, who has been in business since 1984 and been a member of CREW since 1989 (serving as President in 1995), not only fulfilled her childhood goals but also became a mentor for other young women in the field of commercial real estate, namely, her niece, Taylor Dahlgren.
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Taylor Dahlgren
Y
ou might say that as a child, Elize Pruske had the “(Grand) mother” of all professional influences. In the 1960’s, when many women didn’t have careers outside of the home, Pruske’s grandmother was an accomplished, top-producing residential real estate agent.
“I’m overjoyed to know that I’m finally able to give back to the person who ultimately ignited my passion for commercial real estate,” said Dahlgren.
“I remember standing at the top of the scaffolded rotunda as they reworked the copper exterior with zero knowledge about this industry, but with a whole lot of heart,” said Fontenot. “Now, standing on the other side of many completed projects and looking back to some amazing people who guided my path, it makes me beam with excitement at the possibility of guiding others,” exclaimed Fontenot.
Katherine Fontenot
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atherine Fontenot, Director of Construction at Weston Urban, recently revisited her first construction project, the historic Hays County Courthouse.
After a successful career in mainstream construction, Fontenot found her way back to a career in commercial development. It is there that Fontenot finds herself in the role of mentor to Jenna Stoeltje, a development associate at Weston Urban.
A lifelong interest in architecture led Stoeltje to seek management roles within the company.
Jenna Stoeltje
“She [Fontenot] made space for me to join her in managing projects. She opened those doors for me to get involved in the project management side of the business,” said Stoeltje. “Jenna has a fantastic eye for spatial relationships and finishes, especially in the historic realm, and loves to research in order to help us steer the architectural approach for the design,” Fontenot said. “I’m trying to teach her everything I can about getting the most out of your contractors, and that great workmanship makes the building something to showcase,” she added. “It is my hope that Jenna is learning to love all aspects of construction, and that she feels especially rewarded in her role with our historic treasures,” added Fontenot.
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CREW San Antonio 2020 Board of Directors
Front: Dawn Vernon, President-Elect; Yesenia Marili, President; Katherine Howe-Frilot, Immediate Past President Middle: Diane White, Treasurer; Kristin Savage, Charity; Natasha Sattler, Secretary; Erin Salinas, Special Events; Emily Brown, Communications; Debbie Mann, Sponsorship Standing: Laura Gilliland, UCREW; Jennifer Mansour, Programs; Christy Rhone, Membership; Martha Hardy, Legal Counsel
WE BUILD THIS BUSINESS. CONNECTIONS. DIVERSITY. SUCCESS.
CREW San Antonio is advancing the commercial real estate industry’s most talented and connected business professionals.
JOIN US crew-sanantonio.org
Partnering together to build success The key to a successful business is having the right financial partnership. Broadway Bank’s Alyssa Hartlage is a trusted commercial banker who has over 15 years of experience. Alyssa provides personalize lending strategies designed to fit your individual business needs. Alyssa Hartlage Senior Vice President Commercial Real Estate Lender CREW Chapter Champion ahartlage@broadway.bank
broadway.bank • (210) 283-5392 Commercial Banking • Commercial Loans & Lines of Credit Commercial Real Estate • Treasury Solutions
Member FDIC. Rev. 08/20 / #547714898
COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE
Carolyn Johnson Fletcher Vice President Commercial Escrow Officer
Carolyn is a veteran escrow officer with over 30 years of experience in the title industry. Carolyn specializes in commercial real estate transactions including, SBA 504 and 7A. Carolyn has served on the boards of the real estate industry organizations, CREW, CCIM, CTAGGL, and as Chair of the 2019 Mid America Lenders conference. Carolyn is a recipient of the CREW-San Antonio EVA ROSOW Award of Excellence. Carolyn also serves her community as an active volunteer for the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, including serving on the Western Heritage, Western Art, and Bar-B-Q committees. Alamo Title Company has been in San Antonio for over 90 years. It is a part of the Fidelity National Title Group, the largest title insurance group in the United States. Customer service and communication are a high priority with Carolyn’s team, and we would love to earn your trust! Alamo Title Company, 950 E. Basse, Lincoln Heights, TX 78209 210-536-0205 direct, 210-383-4496 cell Carolyn.fletcher@alamotitle.com
As the global leader in commercial real estate
TOP TALENT. INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP. MARKET INTELLIGENCE.
Learn more at cbre.us/sanantonio
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services, CBRE delivers world-class consulting and advisory services to all of our clients in San Antonio and beyond. Our unparalleled local market insight, integrated services and proven expertise continue to unlock the power and potential of real estate for everyone we proudly serve.
Celebrating 28 Years of Leadership
Cindy Ash, CPM President Embrey Management Services Embrey is known for creating places where people want to be, and that includes creating and sustaining an inclusive and progressive culture where team members can grow and excel. We are proud to recognize Cindy Ash, CPM, and her exemplary leadership as President of Embrey Management Services. Throughout her tenure as a leader and company partner, Cindy has remained devoted to building a stronger and more diverse industry through her mentorship of other women in the field,
embreydc.com TOP 10 MANAGEMENT COMPANY
COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE
Cari D. Robinson
Stephanie Dick
Senior Vice President Commercial Banking
Vice President, Commercial Banker
Cari Robinson is SVP of Spirit of Texas Bank, focusing on investment commercial real estate banking. With 20 years of experience, she specializes in CRE banking; providing structured debt for clients, specific for their needs, including short-term and construction debt. Cari’s market insight, experience and knowledge across various real estate asset classes is of great benefit to her clients and to the San Antonio community.
Stephanie has 17 years of experience in the financial services industry. She brings a wealth of knowledge, professionalism, and a true understanding of her customers’ financial landscape. Stephanie is a trusted bank officer who helps clients achieve their financial goals while providing them expert advice. At First Citizens Bank, “Forever First” is a promise to stay with their customers through the years - and even across the generations - and to remain worthy of the trust clients place in them.
Spirit of Texas Bank, 601 NW Loop 410, Suite 230, San Antonio, TX 78216 Office: 210.442.6136 / Cell: 214.537.0752 crobinson@sotb.com www.sotb.com
First Citizens Bank, San Antonio/Austin 210-744-4396 Mobile Stephanie.Dick@firstcitizens.com
We Identify the Character of Your Marital Assets. We Value Business Interests. We Empower Our Divorce Clients With a Clear Financial Picture.
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KFG20_CS_026_SAWoman_HP_090320.indd 1 SAWOMAN.COM
9/3/20 2:42 PM
WOMEN ON THE MOVE
Elizabeth Thompson, MLS (ASCP)
Elizabeth Currently oversees operations of both the clinical and reference laboratories at UT Health San Antonio, was recently selected as an ASCP 40 Under Forty Honoree, and was recently appointed Director of Laboratory Operations at UT Health San Antonio.
Tamara Benavides
The San Antonio Hotel and Lodging Association named Tamara Benavides as the first Chairwoman of the Board of Directors on July 22, 2020. Tamara Benavides is also the CEO of All Sports Travel USA located in San Antonio.
Dr. Adrianne Smith
NuHope is proud to announce the addition of Dr. Adrianne (Patti) Smith, MD, as its Chief Medical Officer (CMO). Dr. Smith is a military veteran and served nine years as a military medical officer in the US Air Force.
Marina Gonzales
Marina now serves as President & CEO of the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (SAHCC), overseeing and executing its mission to serve as the leading resource, advocate and access point for Hispanic Businesses and Hispanics in business.
Tiffany Mock Briggs Recently, Tiffany was thrilled to be name to: Forbes Magazine’s “Top Women Wealth Advisors”, Forbes Magazine’s “Best in State Advisors”, and Shook Research’s “Top Wealth Advisor Working Mothers” Congratulations to these amazing women making moves in their industries! Visit sawoman.com to view their extended biographies, and to share their profiles.
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BUSINESS CALENDAR
September 24 NAWBO San Antonio Austin-Connect Strategy Circle Zoom 5:00 pm September 24-25 San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Virtual Coffee with the Chamber 15703 Walnut Trail 9:00 am September 25 San Antonio Chamber of Commerce The Pathways Ahead: A Status Update on Workforce Development and Education Attainment in San Antonio 2:00 pm October 8 San Antonio Chamber of Commerce State of the Economy with Rob Kaplan, President and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas 12:00 pm
October 27 San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Discover the Possibilities 15703 Walnut Trail 12:00 pm October 28 San Antonio Women’s Chamber of Commerce Par-Tee on Golf Madness RIIM Golf Academy and Driving Range 5:45 pm
Please note - events are subject to change due to COVID-19. Please check with the event host to confirm event details. The San Antonio Woman Business Calendar lists upcoming events for women’s local business groups that are open to the public. If you would like to have your group’s meeting or events listed, please send them to info@sawoman.com and include “SAW Business Calendar” in the subject line.
Why United Texas? Local decision making Low rates Loans for equipment, business vehicles and real estate, including investment real estate Lines of credit and term loans SBA Guaranteed Loans - we’re an SBA Preferred Lender P Home Loans with a personal touch
Sharon Miller
Member Business Lending Officer 5500 UTSA Boulevard 210.561.4582 sharonm@utxcu.com utxcu.com SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020
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FASHION
p a C
on i t c e l ol C sule
FALL
BY: JULIA WESMAN – PERSONAL STYLIST
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Photography: Jorge Tamez, Makeup: Judy Cabada, Model: Vanne Ochoa, Location: Eilan Hotel & Spa
T
he newest trend that is sustainable and makes for stress-free mornings are capsule wardrobes! Minimalism is an ever-growing trend that truly does make life easier, shaving off a significant amount of time when getting ready for any given occasion. The best part about capsule wardrobes is the versatility of each item you pick, making it easy to swap for a mix & match wardrobe to create multiple looks from just a few pieces. Join us as we show our take on a capsule wardrobe, and see how you can create your own that will seamlessly take you through Fall, Winter, and beyond.
Creating a capsule with a variety of neutrals, patterns, and colors for your pieces is a great way to get the ultimate Mix & Match wardrobe!
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While Fall in Texas is still quite warm, breezy flare dresses are an easy go-to for all occasions. This is a versatile garment on its own! With a printed shift or flared dress, heels or crisp white sneakers are a go! Switch up your accessories, add a chunky sweater, belt, denim jacket, or simply let the dress shine. Layering is key for transitioning seasons. With the help of a beautiful satin texture and feel, you can’t go wrong with a neutral slip-dress. Try this in mini, midi, or long lengths to compliment your style. Pair with a basic tee, blazer, patterned top, or layer with a chunky sweater! I love the casual blazer look, even if you aren’t heading into the office. With a statement blazer like this one, you can showcase your favorite prints and colors while still honoring the classic blazer. Pair with neutral tops, bottoms or dresses, with flats or heels. While solids and basics are always on-trend, adding intricate and bold patterns is the perfect way to liven up an outfit. Pick patterns that compliment your color palette for maximum mix & match potential! As most of us have a tried-and-true pair of jeans in our closet, bold pants that compliment your capsule is a great addition and can dress up your everyday look! These pants are the perfect modern take on the culotte style (which are making a comeback since their debut in the 1500’s). With the slit-hem as an edgy twist, this bold hue of red is the perfect way to welcome the Fall season. Long, straight silhouettes are definitely on trend this season, either structured or breezy. A neutral top is the perfect and most versatile piece to dress up or down. Pair this gorgeous puffed-sleeved sweater with your favorite skirt or denim bottoms, or dress it up with a bold colored/patterned pant or blazer! A staple neutral clutch is the ultimate accessory to go with all of your capsule creations. This pouch can hold all of your necessities while keeping you in style! Toss it in your tote bag or carry on its own.
Available at Saks Fifth Avenue, San Antonio 1. Alice + Olivia / Tanisha Flared Dress / $495.00 2. Alice + Olivia / Harmony Draped Slip Mini Dress / $295.00 3. L’Agence / Kenzie Floral Blazer / $625.00 4. Joie / Maiza Floral Blouse / $278.00 5. Derek Lam 10 Crosby / Maeve Slit Hem Pants / $375.00 6. Sea / James Organza Sleeve Sweater / $385.00 7. Valentino / Valentino Garavani Large VSling Leather Pouch / $945.00 Visit sawoman.com for dupes under $100!
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FASHION When building your capsule wardrobe, start by choosing a color scheme that best matches your personal style. We picked neutral whites and nudes with Fall forward orange and red tones to compliment each other. Clothes are a beautiful way to express ourselves, whether it be through color, texture, fabrics, etc. What print screams ‘you’ the best? What colors make you feel the most confident? Play around with your favorite pieces to start building a capsule around them, and I promise that you will be surprised how a few pieces really go together to make multiple unique outfits. Style tip: Accessorize! A statement pair of earrings or necklace with simple gold or silver necklaces, bracelets and earrings can be mixed to elevate every look. Throw on a scarf, hat, or belt to add even more looks to your capsule! Pick a pair of flats or sneakers and go-to heels or booties to take your looks from day to night.
Style tip: Don’t forget that the best outfits can be created within any price range. A mix of inexpensive items with higherpriced items can create AMAZING looks. Try building your capsule around one “splurge” piece to make it work for you! Get inspired with this Fall capsule wardrobe. Pick the pieces that work for you, your budget, and your desired look and fit. Finally, make sure whatever wardrobe you are creating for yourself makes you feel confident, and expresses your own style and personality!
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Happy Fall!
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BEAUTY
Unmasking Beauty BY TIFFANY ROSENBERG
A
s businesses in our area are slowly re-opening, the most popular request is for guests to wear a mask on their premises. Staying safe is crucial to our community, but maintaining your self-care routines should not be placed on the back burner during this time, either. Wearing masks daily has protected our immune systems, but slowly has taken a toll on our skin in more areas than one. Let’s focus on the positives and how we can enhance the parts of our face that can be seen above the mask. It’s all about your eyes and brows these days! Caring for these
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important features on our faces is the key to connecting with individuals right now, as our smiles and other facial expressions are masked for our protection. They say that our eyes are the windows to our souls, and with that being the primarily visible portion of our faces, you want to consider a new way to make them look their best. Have you ever considered using Botox? Botox is a neuromodulator, which is essentially a muscle relaxant. Botox and other neuromodulators are injected into areas that are prone to wrinkles to help alleviate them. Some
areas popular for injections include the sides of your eyes, commonly referred to as “Crow’s Feet,” inbetween your eyebrows (aka “the frown”), and those pesky forehead lines. The treatment is relatively painless when appropriately injected, and the results will last for several months. Another common use for this medication is a brow lift. This is the perfect way to draw attention to your eyes as they will appear more open, delivering a beautiful and youthful result. Consult with your provider about having Botox injected in these areas to focus on enhancing your visible features when wearing a mask.
What about dermal filler? A lot of people are familiar with using dermal fillers for popular areas such as our lips. However, did you know that you can use filler under the eyes? Many of us have noticed deeper and darker circles under our eyes from the stress provoked from the pandemic. It’s natural to lose sleep over the changes we are all experiencing, or perhaps you’ve always used makeup to conceal this area. There is another solution to consider; it is possible to fill in under the eyes with dermal filler. Filling in the dark or hollow areas under the eyes switches the focus back to your eyes, allowing you to look more rested and restore the youthfulness we are all chasing. In most settings, you are numbed before the injections, and there is minimal downtime associated with the procedure. Ask your provider if you are a candidate for under eye filler! There are several treatment pathways to consider when assessing beauty above the mask. To help you get started, we are hosting a Botox giveaway! Whether this is your first encounter with Botox, or if you’re looking to get back into your Botox routine, anyone is welcome to enter! To participate, please call Dr. John Ayala’s office at (210) 692-3223, where Tiffany Rosenberg (Author, Registered Nurse) practices, or you can send her a direct message on her Instagram or Facebook page @nursetiffanyaesthetics and mention “San Antonio Woman.”
Tiffany Rosenberg is a Registered Nurse in San Antonio, TX where she was born and raised. She is a Certified Aesthetic Nurse Injector with a passion for the community and helping others feel more confident in themselves. She loves to travel, paint, and blog in her free time. You can follow Tiffany on Instagram @nursetiffanyaesthetics.
AT HOME
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A Dream House on King William Street Designer mixes the old and new in her historic home.
BY STEVE BENNETT PHOTOGRAPHY BY AL RENDON
The Neoclassical Revival home, built in 1878, is a fine example of Edwardian symmetry, with two-story Corinthian columns framing the central doorway and supporting a pediment up top. The design is based on the 1759 Longfellow house, a National Historic site in Massachusetts.
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AT HOME
The spacious kitchen was originally three rooms, including a back staircase. Walls were knocked down, and the space was opened up to make way for a large island with a Carrara marble countertop and an AGA Elise induction range. The striking pendant lights are called “Random Light” by the Dutch design company Mooi. Note the custom dog-feeding station with raised bowls at the end of the island.
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early 150 years old, the King William Street home of Cami and Richard Hoalst may not boast the pedigree of its more famous neighbors, such as the Steves House and Villa Finale, but a visitor to San Antonio’s most opulent avenue can’t help being drawn to its quiet grace. It has a wow factor that whispers rather than shouts. Just a couple of years ago, the Neoclassical Revival home, built in 1878 by tailor Josiah Pancoast, was one of the loudest on the block. Painted canary yellow, it was rather fussy inside. “Everything, from floor to ceiling, was covered in wallpaper,” Cami Hoalst
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said. “And it was full of shiny, gold antique furniture. Very frilly, super busy.” Hoalst, who recently formed her own design firm, called Maison Conception, transformed the home into a model of tranquil elegance following a 13-month renovation, after buying the house in May 2018. “I design very minimally,” she said during a recent tour of the home, a 2/3-scale replica of the Georgian home of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow in Cambridge, Massachusetts, which had earlier served as Gen. George Washington’s headquarters during the 1775 siege of Boston. “I don’t like a lot of stuff. I don’t like clutter. I’m all about sleek and clean.”
Two years ago, the Hoalsts flew in from Portland, Oregon, where Richard was an executive at Nike, to find a house in San Antonio, their new home after Richard accepted a job with H-E-B. After making the rounds with a realtor, searching primarily in Alamo Heights and Terrell Hills, the couple hadn’t found what they were looking for. They struck out on their own and drove around King William in a rented car to find the right house for their family of five. “As soon as I saw it, I thought: This is my dream house,” Cami said. “I went up and rang the doorbell. The house didn’t look lived in; there was mold growing on the pillars, and the landscaping was in pretty bad shape. But it had, as they say,
beautiful bones. So, I went next door and got a contact for the owner, who lived in Houston. Long story short, we were able to make a deal.” A model of Georgian symmetry, the facade is dominated by two-story Corinthian columns with decorative capitals, which frame the front door and support a pediment. A central hallway leads from front to back of the 3,100-square-foot home, with large, light-filled rooms featuring 14-foot ceilings on each side: living room and dining room in front, office and kitchen in back. A back stairway was taken out to expand the kitchen. A powder room nestles under the stairway. Upstairs features two bedrooms on one side and the master suite, with a spaquality bathroom carved out of a fourth bedroom, occupying the other side.
After removing pesky wallpaper and restoring the original longleaf pine floors, Hoalst painted all the walls and ceilings a serene off-white, just a touch of cream, with refurbished, six-inch crown moldings in the same shade, just a tone glossier. The overall color scheme throughout is white, black and tan, with white taking the lead: surfaces, from Carrara marble kitchen countertops to subway tiles in the baths, are white, white, white. And that electric yellow exterior? Yep. “I normally stick with neutral colors because I think it’s the best way to show a house’s qualities and features,” said Hoalst, a native of Walla Walla, Washington. “There’s no distraction.” To that end, none of the rooms have window treatments, except for
plantation shutters in two upstairs bedrooms and frosting on the windows in Hoalst’s walk-in-andstay-a-while closet, formerly the master bath. “My motto is if you’re not naked in the room, then don’t cover the windows,” she said. The rooms are sparsely furnished with big comfortable pieces, such as the large, sand-colored sofa in Belgian linen in the living room. It manages to look lived in and ready for company. Every room in the house offers a sense of space and openness. “I tell anybody to buy a good couch,” Hoalst said. “Spend your money on a few key pieces — couch, dining table, bed — that will lay a foundation,” Hoalst said.
It was love at first sight for homeowner Cami Hoalst (shown in her master bath) — even though the King William house that caught her eye was canary yellow at the time! “I like very clean design,” she said. “I don’t like any clutter.”
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AT HOME
Latte the Labrador chills in the dining room, which features a large dining table and chairs from Restoration Hardware and a “Darling, I Love You” art print by the late designer Kate Spade on the mantelpiece.
With touches such as gaslights and garden statuary and Venetian mirrors and artwork ranging from a frosted salvaged window from a Parisian bistro to a graffiti text work by Amsterdam street artist, Laser 3.14 (“Your lips started and ended it all”), what lingers in the atmosphere is a European sensibility. It’s tempered by a no-nonsense, functional approach to design.
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“It’s classically elegant, but very clean,” said Lorein Morelos, project manager for Collier Custom Homes, which handled the year-plus renovation. “There were so many beautiful features in the house, and we wanted to preserve its history, its essence, while modernizing it somewhat.” Like many designers, Hoalst likes a combination of the old and the
new. For example, the living room features antique French chandeliers whose light bounces off lucite cube coffee tables. “You have to strike a balance,” she said. “Too modern and stark, and it becomes cold; too heavy and antique, and it becomes very dark. I want the eye to be able to move easily through the house.”
AT HOME EXTRA
Creating a Calm Home in a COVID-19 World BY KELLEY FROST, FROSTED HOME
T
he British phrase “Keep Calm and Carry On” raised the morale of England’s citizens during World War II, and the sentiment applies to home décor during these uncertain times. Today the need for a peaceful, soothing space to call “home” has never been more important. The silver lining is that increased time at home creates an ideal time to make changes, so here are a few ways to bring calm to your environment. The Pantone Color Institute named Classic Blue as its Color of the Year for 2020 even before the pandemic due to its “ability to bring a sense of peace and tranquility to the human spirit.” Blue cabinetry brings a fresh, new look to today’s kitchens. Rich, blue tones in upholstery make a statement in living areas. Classic blue and white remain a mainstay in accessories. Create a cozy library or sophisticated powder bath with blue wallcovering. Shades of blue in décor are the Little Black Dress in the closet, and the possibilities are endless. The trend away from large, great rooms to more private spaces allows families to work or attend school from home without disruption from others. The home office takes center stage with work-from-home as the new norm. Many clients are updating their bookshelves for the perfect Zoom background. Make this a weekend project and start by removing everything to create a clean slate. Choose the items that you like the most and donate those that no longer fit your style. A mix of books and accessories draws the most interest, and just like cleaning your closet, bring in something new to update your collection.
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Mix modern and traditional to get a sense of balance.
Texture remains a vital element with materials ranging from bamboo to rattan, from grasscloth to sisal. The “woven wonder” trend weaves itself into living rooms, kitchens, and even the garden and poolside. This natural vibe reaffirms the importance of outdoors-in thinking as a way to bring nature into everyday life. Cane chairs, jute rugs, and rattan benches are simple ways to incorporate woven textures into your décor; linen pillows with feathers add whimsy, and performance fabric updates a favorite sofa. Look for softer, round lines in furniture, along with a return to 1980s trims and embellishments. Bar carts are popular for more intimate entertaining at home. With a variety of materials available from clean acrylic to boho rattan, the right cart should mix with your existing décor and bring it up a notch or two. Vintage glassware and decanters work well, and you can add to the wow factor with beautiful lighting and unique accessories. Balance high and low on the cart and use bottles to add a pop of color. With nesting as a recurring theme in décor, take advantage of the downtime to rethink how you live every day. What changes are necessary to make your home a respite from today’s chaos? What truly brings you joy in your home? Let this time motivate you to keep calm…and carry on! Frosted Home 210.826.1993 frostedhomestyle.com
the Jonas collection
a new twist on an old classic
We’ve introduced our classic Jonas series of chairs, stools and benches, in a stunning new, black paper cord, woven seat. This fresh take on a classic look, will bring you years of carefree use. Available from stock in both solid teak or solid walnut. Beautifully simplistic, our version features slightly tapered legs for a more refined look. This classic design has and will continue to endure the test of time. Also available in natural color cord. As part of our 50th Anniversary Specials Collection, the Jonas series is priced like never before. $ $ 56� Bench: Teak reg $289 Now $215 / Walnut reg $299 Now $245 $ $ Dining chair: Teak reg $179 Now $139 / Walnut reg $199 Now $159 $ $ Barstool with back: Teak reg $259 Now $195 / Walnut reg $279 Now $209 $ $ Backless counter stool: Teak reg $235 Now $179 / Walnut reg $265 Now $199 $ $ Dining stool: Teak reg $129 Now $99 / Walnut reg $139 Now $109
fifty years of great design and strong value 2236 West Braker Lane 512.451.1233 phoenix
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Win this House Built by Centex in Cinco Lakes, San Antonio, TX. Estimated value $250,000.
Giveaway Date: October 22, 2020 Tickets on Sale Prize: Get your ticket by August 19 for a chance to win a virtual Happy Hour and signed guitar from Little Big Town, courtesy of Capitol Records Nashville and KJ97. Early Bird Prize: Get your ticket by September 11 for a
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t o w n e h ! t t n i a Grant award Night 2020
WE’RE COLORING OUR CITY WITH BRIGHT SPOTS OF HOPE!
The night the magic happens! Every year, the women of Impact San Antonio gather and vote to award High Impact and Support Grants to local nonprofits from our pooled membership fund. Share the excitement! Join us at our virtual event October 26. Details at impactsanantonio.org.
SA Woman half page ad Paint the town-2020-08.indd 1
8/16/2020 1:19:41 PM
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HEALTH
FALL IN LOVE WITH
Hiking in San
Antonio this Autumn BY CHRISTIE CUTHBERT ILLUSTRATIONS BY MARIANA ESPINOSA
Most weekends, Shanti Day, her 7-year-old daughter, Madelyn, and her mother, Marjie, can be found hitting the trails at Eisenhower Park on the north side of San Antonio for a multigenerational family hike. “It’s our girl time,” Shanti said. “When we’re feeling adventurous, we take the harder trails that require climbing and technical skills, and when it’s been a long week, the paved trails are there for a leisurely walk. It’s become a special thing for just us girls in the family.” The beauty of living in San Antonio is there’s a trail for everyone, and
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there’s no better time than fall to explore all the parks in and around the city. As the temperatures gradually dip and the humidity clears, hikers can choose a park that suits their physical abilities and not worry about sweating it out. Jenni Eicher, a certified personal trainer, and health & wellness coach, said before anyone heads out for a hike, they should check the online maps of the trails on the city’s website, www.sanantonio.gov. “Some unpaved trails look pretty stable at first but can become very rocky at points,” she said.
Eicher agrees with Day that the views and trails at Eisenhower Park are incredible, and she also loves that she can bring her dog. She recommends beginning hikers check out the Leon Springs Greenway, as well. “There are so many access points, and there are plenty of drinking fountains, places to sit, and some shade along the way,” Eicher said. Also located in the Leon Springs area, just off Interstate 10, is Friedrich’s Park, which has an easy 2-mile Main Loop and a more difficult 3-mile Restoration Trail. Hilly with beautiful views, the park also offers those seeking adventure a
chance to really rock climb versus just walking. Trails like Juniper Ridge and Vista Loop provide solid scrambling areas. Cody Keairns lives in the nearby neighborhood of Stonewall Estates, which overlooks the park. She loves taking her sons, Max and Emmett, to the more adventurous trails. “They love climbing on the rocks. It’s their favorite part, and it pushes them to keep going,” she said. “The other day, they ended up hiking the entire Restoration Trail.” While the north side of town offers the elevations and views of the Hill Country, the south side offers beautiful paths that wind past rivers, old skeleton barns, historic sites, and more. Medina River Nature Area offers more than 12 miles of predominantly flat trails lined with shady trees. It’s perfect for anyone starting out. For those looking to hike but stay close into the city, Brackenridge Park offers a 2-mile stroll, and McAllister Park has 17 miles of trails. The northeast side of town is home to Comanche Lookout Park. Its 2.6-mile Tower Loop Trail is perfect for hikers of all levels and winds past a spooky stone tower built in the 1940s, which could also make for a fun photo backdrop. Those looking for a halfday trip to explore something new can head to Enchanted Rock State Park near Fredericksburg or check
out the 3 miles of diverse vegetation at Cibolo Nature Center in Boerne. Katie Francis, who lives in San Antonio, brings her son, Nolan, to hike and play in the water. “It’s been a great place to get away, especially since Coronavirus began in March,” she said. “We pack a lunch and spend the afternoon. It’s like a little getaway, and it’s so beautiful.” Fall is also the best time of year to check out Lost Maples State Park as the trees turn beautiful shades of golden yellow and burnt orange. Trails there pass by fishing holes, a massive rock shaped like a monkey, and more. The park can be very busy this time of year, so be sure to plan ahead and make reservations before making the two-hour drive out. Regardless of how experienced a hiker is, everyone who hits the trails needs to be mindful of their clothing and what to bring along, depending on how long they plan to spend outside. The climate in San Antonio makes hydration and sun protection essential year-round. Zac Batchelor, with REI San Antonio, said it’s important to dress appropriately when heading out.
“You definitely want to have something that’s going to protect you from the sun and clothing that’s going to wick sweat away from the body, something that’s flowy to keep you cool,” he said. “As far as hydration, having some kind of reservoir in your backpack that can hold extra water is fantastic.” Hiking sticks can also be beneficial for those looking for more stability, and Eicher said it’s always important to remember to stretch before and after a hike, regardless of your physical ability level. “Start with a few knee lifts or marching in place and some sideto-side lunges to get those legs prepped,” Eicher said. “After the hike, when the muscles are warm is when it is recommended to add in some dynamic stretching.” Eicher is excited to hit the trails this fall and said it’s the perfect time for anyone considering hiking to try it out. “Getting outdoors is so good for the soul,” she said. “I love that we get perfect outdoor weather well through October and the fresh air can bring new perspectives and thought patterns, and continue to help you work toward your health goals.” An entire list of San Antonio trails can be found on www.sanantonio.gov.
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ACTIVE LIVING
Put Your Best Self Forward on Video Calls Experts offer tips on how to bring your A-game to the internet BY CHRISTIE CUTHBERT
S
ince the Coronavirus shut down most of the city back in March, many women are having to navigate online video chat programs in order to keep in touch with friends and loved ones, and also to keep their careers afloat. From Zoom meetings to Skype and Facetime calls, there’s a whole new world of technology to learn for many. Figuring out how to turn on microphones, download apps, and connect is challenging enough, and
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making sure you look your best while on camera presents an entirely new set of skills to learn.
her best quarantine investment has been magnetic eyelashes paired with a pop of color like statement earrings.
Don’t worry; we’re here to help with simple lighting, makeup, etiquette, and setting tips to keep you at your best while connecting.
“When you get on a zoom call, it tends to wash you out,” Stout said. “It seems over the top to wear lashes, but it doesn’t appear that way on camera.”
Makeup Attorney Katy Padilla Stout, who specializes in foster care and family welfare, has to jump onto two to five Zoom calls a day for work. She says
Make-up artist Alecia Hernandez agrees, and says a few small makeup steps can go a long way on camera.
“When we do wedding makeup, we go over the top because the camera is so bright it washes out the face,” she said. “The same can be said for being on video calls. The tiniest bit of blush and a pop of pink on the lip can really freshen up the face.” Filling in your eyebrows can also make a huge difference. “If you ever want to see the difference a filled-in eyebrow can make, color in one side, then look at yourself in the mirror, and you’ll instantly notice the difference,” Hernandez said. “It brings attention to the top of the eye versus the bottom, where most of us hold our tiredness.” Several cosmetic companies, like Younique and MelaLeuca, are also beginning to sell finishing or “setting” powders that can completely diminish the sight of small lines and wrinkles while on video calls. Minerals in the powder deflect the light from problem areas, and Hernandez, who’s been professionally doing hair and make up for 15 years, said it’s an excellent investment for those wanting to look their best online. “It literally blurs imperfections,” Hernandez said. “It’s amazing, and a little goes a long way.” Angles, Lighting and Background Rhonda Short, 53, who runs a YouTube channel called Mature Diva, urges women to choose a spot in their home with plenty of light, and position their camera with a downward angle. “For me, since I’m a mature diva, the camera angle is critical to me,” she said in her tip’s video. “The wrong angle can mean the difference of an extra chin. Set up your laptop or phone at a higher angle, and this will make things better. You may have to use a couple of books or a box or a tripod for your phone.”
Short also believes having a tidy area of your home in the background is essential, as no one wants to see a mess. “Trust me, people on Zoom or Skype will pay attention to your environment,” she said. “So don’t let their impression of your environment impact their impression of you or your work negatively.” Stout has taken the clean background concept to a new level. She purchased a foldable partition that she can pull out and place behind herself during calls to keep things professional. “When you’re staring at yourself on camera all day, you start to think about the ways you can make things look better, especially with backgrounds,” Stout said. “Your bedroom and other places in your house are personal, and you don’t want a bunch of people having a look into your personal space. I chose a partition in a neutral color, and I make sure to wear a color that contrasts so I don’t blend into it.” Just as important as angle and scenery is lighting. Bright light, like that provided by a Ring light or studio light,
can brighten one’s face. Affordable and available on Amazon.com for purchase, there are multiple types of ring lights, including ones that slip right onto your phone. Hernandez says, if you can’t afford one, natural light is always a great option. “Find a window that brings in a lot of light, and it will make you look great,” she said. “Face into the window so the light shines on you.” Etiquette Aside from looking great, having good video chat manners is crucial to a smooth experience. Ensuring your screen is muted when not speaking can eliminate any potential blunders, and refraining from eating during a call or touching your face is important. Short recommends practicing with your spouse or a friend first to make sure you’re happy with your presence in a video call. “Record your session so you can critique it and make adjustments,” she said. For more tips, you can check out the Mature Diva on YouTube, or follow @beautybyalecia_glamsquad on Instagram.
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MOMMY MATTERS
Tips for Remote Learning and Homeschooling Success (For Parents Who Never Expected to Be in this Role!) BY: JENNY JURICA
If you’re like me, you probably never envisioned yourself having to teach your kids at home. However, if the COVID-19 crisis has taught us nothing else, it’s reminded many of us never to say never...even when faced with something as intimidating (and terrifying) as homeschooling. 74
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n weighing the options of classroom instruction, remote learning, or homeschooling for my two middle schoolers, remote learning felt right for my family. However, if you think that I’ve got it all figured out and feel 100% confident that we can pull this off, you’re sorely mistaken. So, I did some crowdsourcing and reached out to some experts in the fields of education and mental wellness for some tips. Here is what I learned.
Preschoolers and Early Elementary Levels
Routine For little ones whose life has been turned upside down by the adjustment to home learning, routine is key. Michelle Romo, a local preschool teacher, has some words of wisdom on easing young children into the routine of learning from home. Romo recommends reaching out to your kids’ teachers for a copy of the school routine so that you can mimic this routine at home. This will not only be a familiar routine for your child, but might also make the eventual transition back into the classroom easier. Romo added, “Don’t be afraid to ask your teachers for help. They want [home learning] to be as successful as you do.” Take Lots of Breaks Romo recommends that young children work for no longer than 25 minutes at a time and take lots of breaks. Romo suggests frequent “Brain Breaks,” which include silly music and dance time. She often turns to the website, www.gonoodle.com, for fun exercise, dance, and meditation videos that kids love. Dedicated “Classroom” Space Having a dedicated space in the home for learning is also important for young children. Romo suggests yoga balls in place of traditional desk chairs or
simply allowing children to stand while working to help them focus. Stay Positive Remember that children take their emotional cues from their parents. Home learning might often be difficult for both the parents and the kids, but it’s important to continually offer words of affirmation and assurance that they’re doing a good job and are supported. “Don’t stress too much about your child learning to hold scissors the correct way or their penmanship during this time,” said Romo. “We [the teachers] can fill in the gaps, and the kids will catch up,” she added.
Preteens, Teens, and College Students
I was a bit surprised to learn that, from preschoolers to teens, the advice is very similar for creating a home learning environment that is as stress-free and successful as possible. For tips on helping the older kids adjust, I reached out to Jennifer Soos, MA, LMFT, a family therapist at The Institute for Couple and Family Enhancement. Soos is well-versed on the topic since she also happens to homeschool her own teens. Mental Wellness “Our household runs by prioritizing the ‘Fundamental Five’ of mental wellness,” Soos explained. “Those include: sleep, nutrition, movement, connection, and mindfulness.” These acts of mental wellness include daily dog walks, meal planning, and even guided meditation. Soos is a proponent of meditation for both the teens and adults in her home. “Five to ten minutes will do the trick,” said Soos. Soos recommends the YouTube channel Mindful Movement for guided meditations.
Also, “screen fatigue” has emerged as a real issue among teens and college students. Nichole Vincent, a staff psychologist at a local university, said that hours spent looking at a screen is taking its toll on their students. So, implementing frequent “screen breaks” is a good idea to save one’s eyes (and sanity). Family Meetings Soos stresses the importance of holding regular family meetings. In her home, they hold a daily check-in every morning and discuss what everyone’s day looks like. In a home where everyone works from home, Soos has found this beneficial to ensure that everyone gets the quiet time and space often required for important Zoom calls during the school and workday. Don’t Neglect Yourself! As a parent, it might feel impossible to keep tabs on the kids’ schoolwork, manage to get your own work done, connect with your spouse, and care for a house that has people in it all day, every day. Consider enforcing dedicated “couple time” with your partner--even if it’s just a grown-ups-only dinner outside or an evening drive with no kids bickering in the backseat. “It’s healthy to create boundaries around your relationship and protect it from the 24/7 intrusion of children and their needs,” said Soos. Lastly, some sage advice for the primary homekeeper that might serve us all well during this time: Soos reminds us to delegate responsibilities and not try and do everything yourself. In fact, Soos’ mantra in her own home is, “If you can work an iPad, you can work a dishwasher.” I don’t know about you, but I foresee using that line often in the coming months.
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MENTAL HEALTH
PREPARING YOUR CHILD (and You) FOR THE “NEW” NEW SCHOOL YEAR BY DEBORAH LEVI LANE, LCSW
Michael is a 10-year-old 4th grader who has had a history of social skill problems. He was constantly anxious around his peers and has always felt that other students were making fun of him. In January of last year, Michael had started therapy with me for his anxiety. By early March, his social interactions had greatly improved. He was playing with other students at recess and developing friendships at school. He was overall a happier child. Then, as Michael’s mother told me, “COVID happened, and everything fell apart.”
to be realistic about the plan to return to school. The child can accept the idea that they really “want to…” return to school, but the plan may not actually occur because it is out of their control. Often a child can develop a sense of empowerment by preparing a backup plan to their original plan. It is also important for a child to identify the areas of their life that they DO have control over.
Children are looking to their parents for confidence, strength, and guidance as they prepare for this upcoming school year. Let us explore ideas and identify solutions to improve our children’s opportunity for success in their academics and social/emotional development.
LISTEN WITH REASSURANCE Children of all ages need to be reassured that they are not alone and that the adults in their lives hear them and are listening to them. DO NOT try to solve their feelings. Instead, encourage your child to share emotions such as anxiety, stress, anger, sadness, and fear. Remain calm and validate your child’s feelings, always remembering to thank them for trusting you enough to share with you. Reassure them that they are in a safe setting where they are respected. Express
ACKNOWLEDGE UNCERTAINTY Parents can help children learn that flexibility can be a useful tool in reducing the anxiety and stress surrounding uncertainties in their lives. For example, a child needs
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your interest in their feelings and your availability to listen further and/ or talk about them in the future. Often children do not realize that their feelings really do matter to the adults in their lives. BE THE SOURCE OF KNOWLEDGE Children (like their parents) are much less anxious when they are given information about what to expect in their future. Parents need to tell their children, as detailed as possible, what plans are in place for the student who
is returning to the classroom. The unknown is scary, especially during the pandemic, when it seems that change is the only constant for children. An extremely wellorganized, clear description of the new routines can be quite calming. Reviewing the information with your children, printing it out on paper, or even acting out the new routines/procedures can be helpful, depending on the individual needs and age of the student. UTILIZE CREATIVITY TO REDUCE ANXIETY Creating rituals is another effective strategy to reduce anxiety. For example, one of my adolescent patients who was experiencing obsessive thoughts about contracting COVID-19 empowered herself by writing her own “personal wellness COVID preventive plan,” which she followed as a daily checklist. Although the items were as simplistic as reviewing the basic symptoms of COVID, her checklist created a sense of control, allowing her to reduce her anxiety and obsessive thinking significantly.
DEVELOP SCHEDULES, FOLLOW PLANS, AND … PIVOT TO PLAN B Schedules are essential for children (and adults) to follow, especially with the beginning of a new school year. Sharing in the development of the schedule allows the child to feel a sense of autonomy and empowerment. The child’s involvement with the actual schedule itself should always depend on the child’s developmental age. There is a much higher success rate of a teen adhering to a schedule if he/she has been one of the developers. PRACTICE AND MODEL RESILIENCY, STRENGTH AND RESOURCEFULNESS Resilience is our ability to thrive or bounce back after a stressful situation. The good news is that resilience can be taught. Resilient children tend to be happier, more motivated, and engaged, and adopt a more positive attitude about difficult or challenging situations. Even in this challenging and unsettling time of the Coronavirus pandemic, parents need to continue to be the motivating force of
strength, love, and acceptance for their children. Deborah Levi Lane, LCSW is a clinical therapist in private practice. She provides individual and group psychotherapy to children, adolescents, and adults. She also consults with medical groups, hospitals, and schools about the treatment of patients with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, ADHD and other psychiatric disorders. For more information, please contact Deborah at 210-326-4294 or email DeborahLaneLCSW@gmail. com or visit her website at www. DeborahLaneLCSW.com
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FIGHT CANCER COMPREHENSIVE BREAST CARE IN SAN ANTONIO
Texas Oncology offers comprehensive breast services, including medical oncology, surgical oncology, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and clinical trials. Our highly specialized team partners with you to develop a personalized treatment plan, ensuring our patients receive a high level of breast care. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit www.TexasOncology.com. BOERNE • FLORESVILLE • FREDERICKSBURG • HONDO • KERRVILLE NEW BRAUNFELS • PLEASANTON • SAN ANTONIO
1-888-864-4226 • www.TexasOncology.com 78
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WOMEN’S HEALTH
Women’s
Health SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020
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WOMEN’S HEALTH
Recent Developments in Breast Cancer Treatment
T
BY BLITHE WILEY
oday, a woman in the U.S. has a one-in-eight chance of getting breast cancer in her lifetime. In fact, breast cancer is one of the two most common cancers in the world, according to the World Health Organization. With such a high occurrence of this type of cancer, ever-more sophisticated and strategic treatment methods are critical. Because there are several different subtypes of breast cancer, effective treatment is most certainly not a onesize-fits-all approach. Add to that, oncologists need to make treatment decisions based on a woman’s age, her general health, her menopausal status, her genetic history, and even her personal preferences. For some women facing a Stage 1-to-3 breast cancer diagnosis, neoadjuvant chemotherapy (chemotherapy given before surgery) may be administered as the first line of treatment. This may shrink the tumor enough that a lumpectomy plus radiation becomes an option instead of a mastectomy. “In certain cases, delivering chemotherapy early in the treatment process may even result in a woman being able to avoid radiation after her surgery,” said Amy Lang, M.D., F.A.C.P., Medical Oncologist at the START Center for Cancer Care. “In addition, by giving chemotherapy before surgery, we can target floater cells much earlier and much more effectively. It’s very exciting to see how effective this treatment
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can be.” (Floater cells are free-floating cancer cells that are cast off from tumors and circulate in the blood.)
basis. Targeted therapies are drugs tailored to the specific pathophysiology of different types of breast cancers.
What’s more, for a woman with a triple-negative breast cancer diagnosis whose cancer doesn’t completely go away with neoadjuvant chemotherapy, her oncologist may elect to treat her with a course of capecitabine, an anticancer drug.
“In just the past six months, we have seen four new drugs approved by the FDA for breast cancer treatment,” Kaklamani said. With HER2 positive breast cancer, these new drugs are very effective at killing breast cancer and also killing any cancer that has spread to the brain and other parts of the body.”
“When a triple-negative breast cancer patient is given capecitabine for six months, in some cases, we can cure the cancer completely after surgery,” said Lang. Targeted Therapies Offer Promising Treatment Virginia Kaklamani, M.D., Professor of Medicine at the Mays Cancer Center, UT Health and the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, noted that today’s oncologists have a number of new targeted therapies to treat breast cancer patients on an individualized
One of the most exciting developments in breast cancer treatment is the use of antibody drug conjugates. These biopharmaceutical drugs are designed as a targeted therapy for treating cancer. Unlike traditional chemotherapy, these drugs target and kill cancer cells while sparing healthy cells. “We call these drugs ‘smart bombs.’ They release the toxin to kill only the cancer cells in the body,” said
Kaklamani. “The increased use of antibody drug conjugates is substantially improving patient survival rates.” Clinical Trials Offer Great Promise Whereas participation in a clinical trial was once viewed as a last resort by many breast cancer patients, today, going into a clinical trial is a powerful option that can be used early in the treatment process. “Today, clinical trials are one of the most important tools in our treatment protocols,” Kaklamani said. “Many of the drugs we are using today in successful breast cancer treatment are a direct result of clinical trials conducted in the past five years or less.” Lang agreed about the importance of clinical trials in the early stages of treatment. “Many of the drugs used worldwide today were developed through clinical trials at START. We
have seen great outcomes for so many women who go to a trial earlier, rather than later.” New Advances in Treating Stage 4 Breast Cancer Stage 4 breast cancer, or breast cancer that has metastasized to other parts of the body, is treatable, but not curable. “However, we have made enormous progress in just the past few years in Stage 4 treatments,” said Lang. “We have seen FDA approval of several powerful new drugs each year in the past three years. Effective drugs are getting to market quicker and this is immensely promising.” Liquid Biopsies Yield Unique Benefits Kaklamani points out that the relatively new liquid biopsy is proving to be a game-changer. A liquid biopsy is less invasive than a traditional biopsy and often can provide a better understanding of the cancer as a whole.
Breast Cancer Glossary of Terms Today, researchers are focused on three subtypes of breast cancer to better understand the biology of the disease and ultimately, how to best treat each case. Hormone receptor-positive Hormone receptor-positive breast cancers test positive for estrogen and/or progesterone receptors. Breast cancer cells that have estrogen receptors are called estrogen receptor (ER)-positive, and those with progesterone receptors are called progesterone receptor (PR)-positive. Collectively, this is the most common breast cancer subtype, accounting for roughly 65 percent of all breast cancer diagnoses. If your tumor is hormone receptorpositive, your treatment may include specific medications which block hormone signaling or reduce your body’s natural estrogen production, such as tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors. If your tumor cells do not have receptors for either hormone, it is called hormone receptor-negative.
“The liquid biopsy we can do today is a ground-breaking development. With this, we can now measure a circulating tumor’s DNA and conduct a genome analysis.” Both Lang and Kaklamani stress the importance of a woman selecting an outstanding medical team for her breast cancer treatment. “Cancer treatment is a team approach,” said Lang. “You need to feel confident that you have talented medical professionals who specialize in breast cancer on your team. In addition, you need to do some thorough research on your own and develop a good set of questions to ask your treatment team. Learn everything you can about the treatment options for your specific type of cancer. You need to be your own best advocate in your treatment journey.”
HER2-positive (Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 positive) HER2-positive breast cancers can test positive for HER2 either by having excessive amounts of the HER2 receptor on the surface of the cancer cell, or too many copies of the HER2 gene inside the cancer cell. The HER2-positive subtype is found in about 20 percent of all breast cancer patients. It can also be either hormone receptor-negative or hormone receptor-positive. Treatment for HER2-positive breast cancer may include drugs targeting HER2, such as Herceptin (trastuzumab), Perjeta (pertuzumab), or Kadcyla (TDM1). Triple-negative breast cancer Triple-negative breast cancer, which lacks ER and PR receptors and is HER2-negative, is the least common of these three subtypes. It accounts for about 15 percent of cases of breast cancer. Triple-negative breast cancer may be a more aggressive form of cancer. In patients with early-stage disease, chemotherapy is often recommended for treatment. —Source: Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
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WOMEN’S HEALTH
Thriving Through Cancer BY KRISTINA GILLEN ADERHOLD
Breast Cancer Saved My Life
D
uring a routine breast selfexam in the shower, Lisa Bonanni, 54, found the pea-sized lump that would save her life. She saw her doctor, where she received not one, but two shocking diagnoses. Not only did she have stage 2 breast cancer, but she also learned she was a walking time bomb due to a 6.5 cm thoracic aortic aneurysm, ready to rupture at any moment. After a grueling eight-hour surgery to remove the aneurism and repair the aorta, she received the good news of a successful surgery. But her health crisis was not over; she now had cancer to beat. Lisa spent the next few months of her recovery from surgery receiving oral chemotherapy treatments for her breast cancer. She later had a bilateral mastectomy (due to lymph nodes being discovered) with reconstruction, ultimately enduring a total of eight surgeries. Still reeling from the newness of her double health crisis and surgery, she had treatments to face; but she was also a single mother to two boys who had to get back to work. With employee health insurance in place, she felt comforted knowing she could face the health challenges ahead of her. Then, another blow came, as she was let go by her company. With no income, and relying on COBRA as temporary health insurance, she didn’t know where to turn. That’s when ThriveWell Cancer Foundation stepped in.
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ThriveWell is a San Antonio nonprofit dedicated to finding a cure for cancer by funding research, providing patient support, and offering programs to improve the quality of life for patients and their families in San Antonio and its surrounding communities. Not only did ThriveWell assist with transportation to doctors’ appointments, but they also helped with her co-pays to get the treatment she needed. Thanks to the support of ThriveWell, seven years later, Lisa is cancer-free and re-married to a wonderful co-survivor husband.
“ThriveWell came into my life at a time when I had lost hope. I am truly blessed and most grateful for all ThriveWell has done for me and my family!” She feels blessed to spend time with her tribe, which includes her four children, husband, and mom. A recognized community volunteer who has received many awards, including “Volunteer of the Year” from United Way and the San Antonio Business Journal, Lisa
has fought alongside other breast cancer survivors to testify before the State Legislators at the State Capitol in Austin to help get HB170Mammograph passed, which requires insurance plans to cover diagnostic mammograms in full. Her message to others? “Early detection saves lives,” she says. Adding that, she found the “Can in cancer!” and that “life is all good.” She explains that she’s looking ahead, loving, laughing, and living. She says she’s a walking testimony on how ThriveWell helps people survive and thrive. Erin Ercoline, Executive Director, ThriveWell Cancer Foundation, explains that the Foundation provides “tangible support to cancer patients, helping them get to and pay for their life-saving treatment, as well as offering free exercise, nutrition, and wellness classes through our Diva&Dude, that keep survivors healthy and thriving.” Living and Laughing through Lifesaving Treatment Betsy Achilles, 70, knows of the invaluable support offered by ThriveWell after first being diagnosed with lobular breast cancer, Stage 2a in 2007. She took her diagnosis in her stride as she underwent a radical bilateral mastectomy, expander surgery, and then silicone implants. There were no complications, and she successfully responded to eight rounds of dense chemotherapy. Upon completion of treatment, she was referred to ThriveWell and the Diva program by her oncologist, Dr. Luis Rodriguez at the START Center for Cancer Care. Diva&Dude was developed in response to research that shows that cancer patients who follow diet and exercise guidelines
can significantly reduce their chance of recurrence. Across San Antonio, Diva&Dude has multiple locations offering a variety of exercise classes. Last year alone, 1,600 free exercise, nutrition and wellness classes were provided to more than 1,200 cancer patients and survivors. “Dr. Rodriguez empowered me to take good care of myself once my treatments were completed. Through the DIVA Program, I stayed abreast of my breast cancer recovery, made ‘breast friends’ with other breast cancer survivors, and learned how proper nutrition and regular exercise reduces my risk of cancer recurrence and increases my overall good health,” says Betsy. In 2013, she learned the breast cancer had returned, and this time it was metastatic breast cancer, stage 4. Despite her fears, she tackled it head-on with dense-dose chemotherapy to delay disease progression and was prescribed 45 days of highdose radiation. It had returned as an aggressive form of HER2+ mutation, and for the second time, she lost her hair, eyelashes, and eyebrows. She has been in continuous chemotherapy since 2013 and is receiving IV therapy every three weeks.
responding 100% to a drug called Herceptin. Today, I’m living with breast cancer. I’m living a happy and active life with this chronic disease. It is indeed possible to survive and thrive.” Her positivity shines through as she says that her breast cancer journey “has been amazing,” and that her family, friends, faith, the START Center, and ThriveWell have gotten her to the amazing place she’s in today. “I’m healthy. I’m happy. I travel. I have fun. I’m living life to the fullest with breast cancer.” If you are going through cancer treatment and need ThriveWell Cancer Foundation’s support, call 210-593-5949, visit www.thrivewell. org or go www.facebook.com/ thrivewellsa for more information.
When discussing her life-saving treatment, she says, “I’m
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San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium Goes Virtual for 2020
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or the 43rd consecutive year, the global breast cancer community’s eyes will be squarely on San Antonio this December. But just the eyes. The annual San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium (SABCS), which normally draws more than 8,000 researchers, clinicians, and advocates to learn the latest in the treatment of breast cancer and breast-related diseases, will be a virtual conference for the first time in its history. The COVID-19 pandemic has forced SABCS20 to retreat behind cameras and video screens for participants’ health and safety. It’s a path many conferences have taken this year. It was a difficult decision for the symposium’s board of directors, announced in early August. “We tried to hold off on changing it to virtual until as late as we possibly could, but with the universities and other institutions setting travel bans until the end of the year, it made it impossible for us to attend the meeting ourselves. We wanted it to be as safe as possible for everyone out there,” said Director of Symposia Sharon Hill of the Mays Cancer Center at UT Health San Antonio. “The patient advocate groups were already starting to cancel or weren’t registering because they were not
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BY: SEAN M. WOOD Photo by © MedMeetingImages/Todd Buchanan
going to be able to come to a live event for health reasons. And for those reasons and the safety of all our attendees, we decided to go virtual.” The symposium, which started in 1978, has grown to be the largest educational conference dedicated solely to breast cancer research and treatment. There are a number of global cancer conferences that include sections on breast cancer, but that is SABCS’ sole focus. “Researchers come from all over the world to hear the latest and greatest about breast cancer,” said SABCS Co-Director, Virginia Kaklamani, MD. “We have all the latest abstracts. We have all the latest research. We bring in the most famous researchers in the world.” The symposium has achieved a successful balance of clinical, translational and basic research focused on breast cancer. It provides a forum for interaction, communication and education for a broad spectrum of researchers, health professionals, and those with a special interest in breast cancer. The challenge this year will be in
creating the interactive environment the symposium has become famous for, Kaklamani said. “That’s the hard part about not meeting face to face,” she said. “We’re struggling with trying to make it interactive. That’s something we’re all working on, and hopefully, we can make it work.” The intention is to have the same level of groundbreaking information and engaging sessions attendees expect from SABCS. More than 1,300 abstracts have been submitted for consideration by the SABCS programming committee.
There will be debates, lectures, poster presentations, educational sessions, plenary lectures, award lectures, and networking opportunities. “The symposium is going to have all of the same elements,” Hill said. “We’re going to have all of the same general sessions, oral sessions, the live Q & A, the poster session events. We’ll still have all the same elements that we would have if we were live.” She did say it would be hard, however, to have spontaneous conversations and one-on-one meetings that have marked symposia in the past. Hill’s team is working on ways to create networking opportunities, albeit virtually.
“In some ways, it will be more challenging because at the live event you can walk up to someone and just start talking, or sit at a table with or sit down next to somebody and start talking and discussing their research or asking any questions you have,” Hill said. “And you can see some of these thought leaders in breast cancer one-on-one. And with a virtual conference, we’re going to be setting up chat rooms and networking discussion areas so people can connect that way. But it will be harder because people are more apt to not go into chat rooms or into those sessions to discuss these issues. Whereas when you’re live, it’s easy just to strike up a conversation.”
Kaklamani said she still expects several breakthroughs reported at SABCS20, just like there are every year. She said she is looking forward to the latest information regarding immunotherapy and targeted treatments, and new treatments that have fewer side effects and improve patient survival. “Even though it’s going to be virtual this year, this is still the largest breast cancer symposium in the world,” Kaklamani said. “So come Monday morning, after the conference is over, we’re going to have new treatments for our patients. We’re going to have new research that is going to be performed on patients and in the lab. So, this is exciting. This is something that we have every single year. We’re just excited to be lucky enough to be hosting it.”
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he mission of the SA Cancer Council, a non-profit all-volunteer organization founded in 1984, is to support the Mays Cancer Center, home to UT Health San Antonio MD Anderson, in the fight against cancer by providing financial and volunteer resources for cancer research, treatment, education, community outreach, and patient assistance. With the help of approximately 400 members, the Council holds two major fundraising events annually, in addition to numerous other activities throughout the year. Every Spring, the SA Cancer Council holds its Spring Luncheon, which provides our community the opportunity to hear first-hand from speakers with personal and inspiring stories of cancer survival and from researchers about the amazing breakthroughs in cancer research. The 2020 luncheon, which was postponed due to the pandemic, will now be a virtual event on Monday, October 5, at 11:30 am. This year’s theme, “Beacon of Hope: The Changing Face of Cancer” will feature a panel of experts discussing the revolution in immunotherapy cancer research, which shows excellent promise in defeating cancer. Every Fall, the Council conducts its Cure Cancer Card fundraiser (formerly known as the Partners Shopping Card). The Card is sold for a $50 donation and
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entitles the purchaser to a 20% discount at hundreds of area retailers and restaurants. 100% of card sales support patients and cancer research at the Mays Cancer Center. This very popular fundraiser was founded in 2000 by Council Past President, Karen Heintz, and the event’s first Chair was Yona McNish. This year’s Chair, Karen Cannon, said, “cancer doesn’t stop in a pandemic and neither will we. We are inspired by the great
support we have received from our retailers and supporters for this important cause, even during these challenging times.” “I am extremely proud of the unwavering dedication and hard work of our members. Because of their tireless efforts, the Council has donated more than $5 million to the Mays Cancer Center over the past 36 years,” said Cheryl Wright, Council President.
The SA Cancer Council has provided support for the following important programs at the Mays Cancer Center: • $1,000,000 to establish an endowment SA Cancer Council Distinguished Chair in Oncology • $1,000,000 to name the SA Cancer Council Radiation Therapy Suite • $1,088,000 to support cancer patients in need through the Patient Supportive Care Program • $750,000 to establish the SA Cancer Council Breast Cancer Patient Education Suite • $542,000 to support breakthroughs in cancer research and drug development • $375,000 to support innovative pilot cancer research projects (15 pilot projects funded to date) • $178,000 to support the Patient Transportation Program (including purchasing two new vans and
providing complimentary valet service for patients) • $250,000 to support the Grossman Building Capital Campaign If you are interested, please join
the SA Cancer Council by visiting SACancerCouncil.org or calling (210) 450-5571 and join us in the fight against cancer. Together, we will continue to make a profound impact in our community.
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HERE IS WHAT WE ARE DOING TO KEEP YOU SAFE DURING YOUR MAMMOGRAPHY APPOINTMENT Patient temperature checks and symptom screening performed prior to entry Employee symptom screening and temperature checks performed daily All employees are masked in appropriate level 1 masks All patients are required to wear a cloth face mask Equipment is sanitized between patients High-touch areas are routinely disinfected Patients and chairs are limited in the waiting areas to comply with social distancing Visitors and children are not permitted with the patient at this time
Remember If you are not feeling well, please refrain from coming in for your appointment. Also, please bring your cloth face covering with you to your appointment
Visit our Boutique Centers: 9150 Huebner Rd., Suite 195 1888 Nacogdoches Road 155 E. Sonterra Blvd., Suite 100A 11923 Culebra Road, Building 2 12709 Toepperwein Rd. Suite 106
HIGHER
STANDARDS
GREATER
HOPE
For leading edge surgical approaches and high-quality care, visit Texas Breast Specialists, part of the Texas Oncology network. With four locations in the San Antonio area, we offer comprehensive breast care, including diagnostics, surgical services, and medical and radiation oncology. Our compassionate physicians partner with you to help you understand your options and develop a personalized treatment plan. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please visit www.TexasBreastSpecialists.com.
Alfredo A. Santillan, M.D., MPH San Antonio, TX Kathryn A. Wagner, M.D., FACS San Antonio, TX
w o m e n ' s
HEALTH & WELLNESS
To be included in this section and online at sawoman.com, contact: Dale Lane Director of Partnerships dale@sawoman.com (210) 859-1233 90
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BE PROACTIVE, GET SCREENED
Schedule your mammogram at 210-228-XRAY (9729).
One in eight women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. North Central 502 Madison Oak, Ste. 450
Legacy Oaks 5368 Fredericksburg Rd. Bldg. C, Ste. 305
Downtown 215 E Quincy, Ste. 100
Mission Trail 3327 Research Plaza, Ste. 108
Westover Hills 3903 Wiseman, Ste. 321
Schertz 16977 IH 35 N, Ste. 220
New Braunfels 1763 Medical Way OPENING SOON SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020
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WOMAN
Perseverance, Integrity, and Kindness:
The Secret to Boerne’s Success in Challenging Times BY: JENNY JURICA PHOTOGRAPHY BY JASON ROBERTS
While the COVID-19 crisis has devastated many of our country’s small towns and communities, Boerne seems to be weathering the obstacles and managing to not only survive but, quite possibly, even thrive during this time. These three Boerne professionals prove that perseverance, integrity, and kindness are carrying their community through the crisis with grace and hopefulness. 92
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Kimberley Blohm President, CEO Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce
B crisis.
lohm, President and CEO of the Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce, has had a front-row seat to witness the unity that Boerne has shown during the COVID-19
“We are still united as one unit. So many businesses, non-profits, and people are helping one another, left and right,” said Blohm. Blohm explains that, while the pandemic has been difficult for this popular spot for weddings, receptions, and other celebrations, the Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce has managed to do well--despite being ineligible for federal funding relief. Blohm explained that Boerne is a unique community. “It’s the village mindset...the relationships. People go to church together, work together, go to the local brewery together. We know that we have each other’s back.” Along with the perseverance to emerge on the other side of this crisis stronger, a spirit of generosity is a common theme in Boerne, and it’s something that inspires Blohm. “Seeing the joy that you can give to others in simple acts of kindness...that energy keeps me going,” explained Blohm. “You can make a difference. Small things can make a huge difference,” she added. Speaking of finding joy in small things, Blohm has especially enjoyed giving out eggs to community members, laid by the beloved chickens that she and her family care for at their home outside of Boerne. “When people are extra nice or just notice you, that’s big. You never know what people are going through. Simple acts that don’t cost a lot of money make a difference,” said Blohm.
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Michelle Hackebeil Co-Owner and Director Lonestar Dance Collective
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hen seasoned ballet dancer Michelle Hackebeil partnered with Mary Rae Moy to open Boerne’s first competitive dance training program, Lonestar Dance Collective in 2011, she couldn’t have fathomed what operating a dance studio during a pandemic might look like. After being closed for several months during the spring, the dance studio resumed classes in June (with precautions in place) and even managed to fit in a dance recital unlike any done before. “We rented a 10,000 square foot warehouse and had five-minute recitals for each class,” explains Hackebeil. “We changed out the whole audience, which was parents only, and dancers. The recital was 14 hours long,” recalled Hackebeil. When she’s not at the dance studio, Hackebeil and her husband are busy with their many other business ventures. In addition to owning and operating a custom home building business, the Hackebeils also have a concrete construction company, own a vacation property in Colorado, and are on tap to open a franchise in Boerne. As you can imagine, Hackebeil doesn’t find herself with a lot of free time, but she wouldn’t have it any other way. “Our whole family works hard, keeps going, and asking for more. When we do get to spend time together, everyone gets to relax a little,” said Hackebeil. When Hackebeil does get a chance to escape from her responsibilities at home, she loves to go to their vacation home in Breckenridge, Colorado. “I can go there, hike with my dogs, escape to the mountains, and it still feels like home,” said Hackebeil.
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Debra Janes
Luxury Agent Phyllis Browning Company
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hen San Antonio native Debra Janes moved to Boerne from Uvalde in 1992, housing in Boerne was affordable, and land was plentiful. As a first time homeowner, Janes scored a historic 1910 farmhouse and lovingly restored it. “It had oak trees that were the size of a Volkswagen,” remembered Janes. Perhaps it was the process of restoring her farmhouse, or the nudge from her ex-husband that propelled Janes into the real estate profession. “The only smart thing my ex-husband ever told me to do was to get my real estate license,” joked Janes. In 1993, Janes received her real estate license and has worked hard (often braving extreme weather and extenuating conditions) to prove herself in the competitive industry ever since. These days, Janes serves luxury communities as an agent with Phyllis Browning Company and has equipped herself with the tools needed to succeed in real estate. The former member of Dominion Associated Realtors feels that honesty and integrity are key to forming relationships with clients, especially in times of crisis. “I’m on the phone with my clients during this pandemic because relationships are everything,” said Janes. “As my father used to say, ‘You don’t have to have a good memory if you don’t lie.’ People appreciate honesty and integrity more than anything else...in business and in life.” advised Janes. When Janes and her husband, Joey Gleitman, aren’t spending time at their newly renovated Horseshoe Bay condo with their seven and a half year old grandson, Hudson, they’re at home in Boerne, surrounded by their three treasured dogs. Polly is a “bagel”(half beagle, half basset hound); Maggie, a rescued mini basset hound, who loves Mexican food; and Charlotte, an English Cream Golden Retriever, who is currently becoming certified as a therapy dog to work with special needs children.
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HILL COUNTRY HAPPENINGS Please note, due to COVID-19, the events listed may have changed. Check with each location for the most up-to-date information!
BOERNE Saturdays FARMERS MARKET AT THE CIBOLO Historic Herff Farm 33 Herff Road
September 26 BLUEGRASS JAM AT THE AGRICULTURAL The AgriCultural Museum 102 City Park Road
October 3-4 BOERNE MARKET DAYS Main Plaza 100 N. Main Street
October 10 BLUEGRASS JAM AT THE AGRICULTURAL The AgriCultural Museum 102 City Park Road
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October 10 KUHLMANN-KING MUSEUM TOUR Kuhlmann-King Museum 402 E. Blanco Road
October 11 BOERNE CONCERT BAND CONCERT Boerne High School Auditorium 1 Greyhound Lane
October 15-17 JUST BETWEEN FRIENDS SALE Kendall County Fairgrounds 1307 River Road
October 16 JASON BOLAND & THE STRAGGLERS - PEARL SNAP TOUR The Roundup Music Venue 531 FM 3351 N
October 17 ANTIQUE TRACTOR PULL & PUMPKIN FESTIVAL The AgriCultural Museum and Arts Center 102 City Park Road
October 24 BOERNE BOO! Patrick Heath Public Library 451 N. Main Street
October 24 BLUEGRASS JAM AT THE AGRICULTURAL The AgriCultural Museum 102 City Park Road
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HILL COUNTRY EATS
Please note, due to COVID-19, the locations listed may have a change in operating hours, dine-in, and carry-out availability. Check with each location for the most up-todate information!
BOERNE
Sculpture Jewelry Ceramics Painting Drawing
Photography Mixed Media Unique Gifts and Fine Art Treasures
THE DIENGER TRADING CO Conveniently located on Main street, this vintage bistro serves breakfast, lunch, BRUNCH, and drinks. Grab a bite to eat, then walk over to the Dienger boutique for some retail therapy and a few pictures at this beautiful 19th-century building. 210 N Main St MARY’S TACOS Casual, counter-serve Mexican eatery. This is definitely the spot to go for all your breakfast taco cravings! 518 E Blanco Rd BEAR MOON BAKERY CAFE This American comfort cafe serves coffee, sweet treats, sandwiches, salads, and other baked goods. Perfect for a graband-go breakfast or lunch on the weekends! 401 S Main St COMPADRES HILL COUNTRY COCINA This NEW restaurant serves Tex-Mex and BBQ fare. A fun, casual atmosphere with plates that look as good as they taste! Veteran Owned and Operated. 209 Lohmann St PEGGY’S ON THE GREEN A unique, laid-back restaurant serving down-home Southern cooking for lunch and dinner. A warm and inviting atmosphere, with plenty of true Southern charm. You definitely don’t want to miss their Sunday brunch! 128 W Blanco Rd
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A SPECIAL EXHIBITION OCTOBER 8 – NOVEMBER 1, 2020
CIBOLO CREEK BREWING CO. A family-owned and kid-friendly brewpub with a friendly neighborhood atmosphere. Featuring craft brews and farm-fresh casual eats with shaded patio seating. 448 S Main St
SMOKEY MO’S BBQ This family barbecue business has been smokin’ up lean brisket, tender, juicy chicken and turkey, and, of course, delicious hot sausage since 2000. Add to that some mouth-waterin’ hot buttered potatoes, creamed corn, refreshing coleslaw, and our house-made Pinto Beans…Then you’ve got yourself a meal! 1685 River Road THE CREEK RESTAURANT Seafood-centric American cuisine in a rustic, romantic setting. Enjoy views of the Cibolo on their spacious deck seating area. 119 Staffel St. BOERNE EPICURE GOURMET MARKET Treat yourself to many fine food products and a fabulous deli! Boerne Epicure Gourmet Market offers amazing organic and gourmet choices. Lunch served daily. 210 S Main VALERIA RESTORANTE ITALIANO A modern European restaurant serving Italian favorites with flair. Pair your meal with a glass from their expansive wine list. 109 Waterview Pkwy #105
Two Women Look West PHOTOGRAPHS OF
King Ranch HELEN C. KLEBERG TONI FRISSELL
Photographs of King Ranch from the 1930s to 1950s by Helen C. Kleberg and Toni Frissell
Chisholm Trail Heritage Museum 302 N. ESPLANADE HISTORIC DOWNTOWN CUERO, TEXAS THIS SPECIAL EXHIBITION IS FREE WITH REGULAR MUSEUM ADMISSION
361.277.2866
CHISHOLMTRAILMUSEUM.ORG
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ENTERTAINMENT
Fall Brings a Fresh Pick of Jazz, Art, and Events to the SA Entertainment Scene BY RUDY ARISPE
Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, we encourage you to visit each venue’s website for their latest updates on the rules and protocols for its patrons’ health and safety. October 11: City Jazz Series at Empire Theatre Features Everette Harp and Tim Bowman A native of Houston, Harp began playing piano at age 2 and the saxophone at age 4. His first album, recorded in 1992, established him as one of smooth jazz’s greatest ambassadors, according to his website. Over the years, Harp has performed or recorded with a variety of pop, R&B, and jazz superstars, such as Luther Vandross, Dionne Warwick, Aretha Franklin, Gladys Knight, Billy Joel, Neil Diamond, Natalie Cole, Herbie Hancock, and many other popular musicians. Bowman is a chart-topping guitarist who has made his mark on the jazz scene by entertaining audiences with jazz, gospel, soul, and blues for the past 30 years. His goal has been to create music that connects with people. “I’ve always tried to make music that people could get lost into,” he says in his biography. “I wanted to take a ride and tell a story and hope every melody is a melody that they can take home and whistle, something that grabs them and doesn’t let them go.” www.majesticempire.com
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SAMA Presents New Installation “Latin American Popular Art” After a flood forced the Latin American Folk Art gallery to close for three years, the San Antonio Museum of Art (SAMA) reopened the gallery space on September 12 to present the exhibition “Latin American Popular Art,” featuring more than 140 works of art, including paintings, sculpture, ceramics, textiles, masks, and toys, among other objects. It runs through April 27. “Popular Art refers to artwork that is made by and for the people,” Lucia Abramovich, associate curator of Latin American Art, said in a press release. “Any exhibition of this work must explore and reflect the complexity of experiences that yielded it, from the response to colonization, to the sacred and communal traditions passed through generations, and to creative engagement with contemporary social and political circumstances.” The presentation will feature objects from the prior installation that visitors enjoyed viewing, including a sculpture of a crane made in 1930 from a hollowed gourd, from Olinalá, Guerrero, Mexico, as well as a ceramic figure of a woman made in 1978 by the renowned Oaxacan artist Teodora Blanco Núñez. The exhibition highlights themes such as “Life, Death, and Faith” and “Legacies of Craftsmanship.” The gallery will also include context and background on the development of SAMA’s 8,000-work Latin American Popular Art collection. To promote inclusivity and to embrace the diverse population of South Texas, all of the teaching materials will be presented in English and Spanish. www.samuseum.org
October 1: Have a “Roaring” Good Time During SA Zoo’s (Virtual) 38th Annual Zoobilation Ball
October 19: 50th Annual Witte Game Dinner to Be Enjoyed Under the Stars or From Home The Witte Museum is going back to its roots as it celebrates the 50th anniversary of the annual Witte Game Dinner, the museum’s biggest fundraiser. Attendees will enjoy an authentic South Texas ranch experience along with live music by Robert Earl Keen, wild game and campfires. You have a choice of attending in-person at the Zachry Family Acequia Garden or purchase a Porch Party to have at home. This year’s Texas Heritage Award Honorees are Rosemary Kowalski (individual) and the RK Group (corporation). The Witte asks the community to purchase a ticket to help support the museum more than ever before because of the pandemic and to ensure that children and families can continue to experience all the museum has to offer. https://www.wittemuseum.org/50th-annual-witte -game-dinner/
Can you image the Alamo City without giraffes, hippos, and elephants in our own backyard if it wasn’t for the San Antonio Zoo? But because of the pandemic and low attendance numbers since reopening, the zoo has lost millions of dollars, which is why the resident animals and other furry friends need your help. Plan on attending (from the comfort of your home) the San Antonio Zoo’s largest fundraiser, the 38th Annual Zoobilation Ball! benefiting the Recovery Fund starting online at 6 p.m. October 1. It’s free to stream live. Guests are encouraged to elevate their experience with one of the upgraded ticket or table options to host their Zoo “Speakeasy Ball” at home. The costs of animal care and infrastructure at the zoo is nearly $500,000 a week. Unfortunately, the San Antonio Zoo is 100% dependent on guest visits, grants, and donations. The zoo receives no monies from the city, county or state. “This year Zoo Ball chairs Danielle and Cosmo Guido are doing an amazing job of bringing Zoo Ball to the San Antonio community,” said Tim Morrow, president & CEO of San Antonio Zoo. “The proceeds from this year’s Zoo Ball will directly help San Antonio Zoo continue our world-class care of the animals, our infrastructure, and our team.” RSVP at https://sazoo.org/zooball/. Couples tickets are $600. Individual tickets are $350.
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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT CALENDAR Please note: All events, dates, and times are subject to change due to COVID-19. For the most up-to-date information, check with the event venue or host at the websites listed. We encourage everyone to practice social distancing, wear protective face coverings, wash and sanitize your hands regularly, and follow CDC guidelines. September - January SELENA FOREVER/ SIEMPRE SELENA
Thursdays ORIGAMI NIGHTS!
San Antonio Botanical Garden
6:00 pm - 9:00 pm Enjoy OrigamiintheGarden² during extended Thursday night hours at the Botanical Garden. Origami nights will feature exhibition tours, origami inspired hands-on activities, and a cash bar to include Garden inspired drinks and food prepared by Jason Dady.
The McNay Art Museum
The McNay pays tribute to 90s icon, singer, designer, and Texas legend—Selena QuintanillaPérez—with five photographs by award-winning San Antonio photographer John Dyer. Selena was the subject of Dyer’s photo assignments for the cover of Más Magazine in 1992 and again for Texas Monthly in 1995, just months before she was tragically killed at age 23. Selena Forever/Siempre Selena is organized by the McNay Art Museum, curated by Kate Carey, Head of Education. mcnayart.org
Nights in September and October THE DRIVE-IN AT FIESTA TEXAS Fiesta Texas
We believe that all experiences should be memorable, which is why we are on a mission to transform nights at the movies to cinematic events like no other. You bring your friends and loved ones, and we’ll bring you city skylines, sunsets, starlit evenings, awesome drinks, delicious food, and great movies on the big screen. Driven by our love of film, our Rooftops promise a handpicked curation of cults, classics, and new releases. We stand for social cinema because we believe it’s the future. Join our movement. rooftopcinemaclub.com
Wednesdays thru October 21 COMMUNITY YOGA WITH ALAMO CITY YOGA San Antonio Botanical Garden
9:30 am - 10:30 am Celebrate your connection to nature by taking your practice
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Sabot.org
outside at one of the most beautiful places in the city, the San Antonio Botanical Garden. This weekly class is a time to connect with breath, body, and nature. The yoga practice is open to all levels. Ages 12 and up. An email with instructions and social distancing protocol will be sent to you 24 hours prior to the start of class. Sabot.org
Thursdays STORYTIME IN THE GARDEN
San Antonio Botanical Garden
10:00 am - 10:30 am The Botanical Garden will offer children’s storytime during the summer months through
August 20. Each session will feature a different naturethemed book designed to stimulate young minds and foster an appreciation for the great outdoors. Families are welcome to bring a blanket to sit on during storytime. Recommended for ages 5 and under. Please arrive early as spaces are limited. Sabot.org
September 30 GO TEAM RAMEN! DISTANCE LEARNING
San Antonio Botanical Garden
6:30 pm - 8:30 pm Have you thought about making ramen at home? Join Chef Katrina Flores in the kitchen to make Tantanmen ramen with bok choy and soft-boiled egg, crispy gyoza and blistered shishito peppers. Participants may choose to pick up an ingredient box or request a grocery list to shop ahead of time. A weblink, grocery list and instructions on how-to pick-up ingredient boxes from the Botanical Garden will be sent 72 hours prior to the start of the class. A computer and internet connection are required. Recipes included. Sabot.org
October 2 SHANE SMITH & THE SAINTS
October 7 MOTHER OF THE YEAR LUNCHEON BENEFITS AVANCE SAN ANTONIO
John T. Floore Country Store
7:00 pm
liveatfloores.com
www.avancesa.org
October 10 LIGHT THE NIGHT BENEFITS LEUKEMIA & LYMPHOMA SOCIETY
www.lightthenight.org/events/ san-antonio
October 3 WADE BOWEN
John T. Floore Country Store
6:00 pm
liveatfloores.com
September 19 - October 31 ZOO BOO! San Antonio Zoo
October 9 AARON WATSON
John T. Floore Country Store
5:00 pm
liveatfloores.com
October 2-4, 9-11 MACBETH 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm Shakespeare’s famous tragedy tells the story of a soldier whose overriding ambition and thirst for power cause him to abandon his values and bring about the near destruction of the kingdom he seeks to rule. Performed by The Classic Theatre at the Botanical Garden Sabot.org
October 9 - 11 FALL ARTISAN SHOW, PRESENTED BY HILTONS OF SAN ANTONIO San Antonio River Walk Experience the San Antonio River Walk’s beauty at the Fall Artisan Show by shopping at over 40 handmade artisan booths, including pottery, textiles, jewelry, woodwork, paintings, beadwork, and more. thesanantonioriverwalk.com
The San Antonio Zoo once again hosts this family-friendly, non-spooky Halloween celebration held every weekend day SeptemberOctober. The Zoo will be decked out with Halloween fun, complete with trick-or-treat stations, pumpkin painting, dance parties, costume contests, a hay maze, a hay slide, and plenty of games. Children of all ages and adults are welcome to dawn nonscary, family-friendly costumes. Every Friday thru October 30, trick-or-treat from the comfort of your vehicle with trick-ortreat stations sponsored by H-E-B during Drive Thru Zoo Boo! from 5-8 pm
to participating restaurants are posted online and at the event. Other entertainment includes face painting, moon bounce, and family appropriate Halloween music. thesanantonioriverwalk.com
November 6 RANDY ROGERS BAND
John T. Floore Country Store
7:00 pm
liveatfloores.com
Upcoming Nonprofit Fundraisers September 29 LIGHTHOUSE FOR THE BLIND ART IN THE DARK
sazoo.org
https://www.saartinthedark.org/
October 23 HAUNTED RIVER JR.
October 2
Shops at Rivercenter
Families will have a ghoulishly good time on the River Walk celebrating Halloween. Eerie sights and sound shall haunt the river while families trick or treat. 2,500 free Trick-or-Treat bags are distributed to kids, while supplies last. Maps
CHIPS ‘N SALSA BENEFITS SA YOUTH www.sanantonioyouth.org/ chips-n-salsa-2020
October 5 SPRING LUNCHEON BENEFITS SA CANCER COUNCIL
www.sacancercouncil.org
October 10 WOUNDED WARRIOR PROJECT - CARRY FORWARD 5K https://carryforward.
woundedwarriorproject.org/
October 16 INKSTRAVAGANZA BENEFITS GEMINI INK www.geminiink.org
October 24 VIRTUAL CASINO NIGHT FUNDRAISER BENEFITING DRESS FOR SUCCESS
www.sucessfulconnections.org
October 24 SAN ANTONIO CONGENITAL HEART WALK https://www.childrensheart foundation.org/texas/
October 24 AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY’S VIRTUAL CATTLE BARON’S GALA AND RANCH CHIC FASHION SHOW
www.CattleBaronsGala.org
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DINING
Toro
Kitchen + Bar BY MEREDITH KAY PHOTOGRAPHY BY AL RENDON
Imagine thousands of people tightly packed on the streets of Pamplona, Spain. Everyone is dressed in the traditional white clothing with red scarves adorning their necks and waistbands. You hear an approaching roar. Thundering hooves become louder as the bulls approach the crowds, and then the scramble begins. It is the annual Running of the Bulls at the Festival of San Fermin.
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adly, the festival did not take place this summer for the first time in decades due to the pandemic, but you can still enjoy a taste of Spanish culture here in San Antonio at Toro Kitchen + Bar. The name of this outstanding restaurant comes from this renowned event, as co-owner, Gerardo De Anda, was once gored while participating in the Running of the Bulls. He and his sister, Vanessa, grew up between Mexico and San Antonio, and their grandparents are from San Sebastian, in northern Spain. They opened Toro Kitchen + Bar in February of 2017, and they currently have two locations serving traditional Spanish cuisine, creative cocktails, along with a carefully curated wine list featuring Spanish wines you will not find anywhere else in town. Vanessa states, “Our goal was to create a locally crafted Spanish culinary experience, and to evoke the warm feeling of being in Spain.” If you are not familiar with the flavors of Spanish cuisine, then you are in for a unique and delightful experience. Begin with a Tablado, a delicious selection of Spanish meats and cheeses to share with the entire table, or an order of Toro’s Serrano ham plates. Toro features the decadent Jamón Ibérico de Bellota 5Js. It is considered the finest jamón in the world, and Toro is the only place in town where you will find it. Diners must indulge in several of Chef Juan Carlos Bazan’s tapas - or small plates best shared with friends - to become acquainted with Spain’s cuisine. From their Gambas al Ajillo, garlic sautéed shrimp, to their crispy Croquetas, fried fritter bites stuffed with vegetables, seafood, chorizo or jamón, you will find the freshest and most traditional Spanish dishes, along with a few delicious surprises. Toro has changed up their menu with fall approaching to include a small
Pulpo Gallego, or Galician Octopus menu. Try this Spanish favorite sautéed in butter, onion, and garlic with a seafood reduction and squid ink, or even ceviche style, marinated with avocado, onions, green pepper, lime and cilantro. This delicacy should put Toro on the immediate bucket list for true seafood lovers and can only be truly appreciated with an ice-cold pitcher of Spanish sangria.
Toro Kitchen + Bar Downtown Location 1142 E. Commerce St. #100 @ Sunset Station Stone Oak Location 115 N. Loop 1604 E. #1105 (210) 592-1075 www.torokitchenandbar.com
If you would like to feel completely immersed in authentic Spanish culture, then you must make Toro a dining destination for Chef Bazan’s award-winning Paella. For those who aren’t familiar with the dish, Paella is a hearty rice dish that incorporates whatever the household has on hand. Each Paella is made to order, and you can choose a small or large serving, depending on how many hungry diners you are entertaining. Toro’s Classic Paella features jumbo shrimp, mussels, chicken, calamari, pork belly, and Spanish chorizo. You will be hardpressed to eat the entire pan, so plan to take home the leftovers. It will be even better the next day as the flavors marinate and soak into the rice. Toro Kitchen + Bar is open at both locations from Tuesday to Sunday, and features live music on the patio on Fridays and Saturdays. They also feature the extremely popular Noche Bohemia at the Stone Oak location on Wednesday’s from 7:30 to 9:30 with live music and an all-day Happy Hour. They have created an active takeout program during the dining pandemic restrictions, and they also specialize in catering and private events. You won’t find any wild-eyed, snorting bulls at Toro. What you will find, however, is a friendly staff ready to welcome you like an old friend, an outstanding wine and cocktail selection to quench your thirst, and an abundance of flavorful Spanish dishes sure to convert even the most conservative palate.
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SA EATS
SA Eats
We all know women have distinctive tastes when it comes to dining out. So, ladies, this restaurant guide is custom-tailored just for you! Please note, due to COVID-19, the locations listed may have a change in operating hours, dine-in, and carry-out availability.
COFFEE BREAK
SUMMER MOON COFFEE Inspired by hill country living, this coffee house uses a special wood fire coffee roasting process where every batch is roasted in handmade brick roasters over seasoned Texas oak for a smooth cup of coffee for every patron. ALAMO RANCH 11831 Culebra Rd. #106
LEON SPRINGS 25035 I-10 W Suite 101
ST. MARY’S 3233 N St. Mary’s St. #102
CANDLELIGHT COFFEEHOUSE Nestled in the St. Mary’s strip, Candlelight Coffee House serves as a wine bar, coffee bar, restaurant, and popular brunch spot with a calming ambiance. 3011 N. St. Mary’s
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FOLKLORES COFFEE HOUSE San Antonio’s first Southside coffee house provides a quiet and unique coffee experience specializing in CBD-infused coffee creations.
FREETAIL BREWING CO. Brewed for locals. By locals. Established in 2008, Freetail’s brews are inspired by the San Antonio culture and are an inseparable part of their brand. Come enjoy one of their La Muerta, Oktoberfiesta, or Tropical Punch Bexarliner creations with pizza and appetizers!
PLANT-BASED
4035 N Loop 1604 E
1422 Nogalitos St
VIVA VEGERIA Come enjoy an authentic Mexican dish with a twist at San Antonio’s first vegan and gluten-free restaurant. Fill up on a Pastor Taco Plate, Chick’n Flautas, or La Piñata: a raw stuffed avocado vegan salad. Pet friendly!
5009 S Flores St
BITES AND BREWS BUSTED SANDAL BREWING COMPANY Busted Sandal Brewing Company is a veteran-owned microbrewery in San Antonio serving small-batch craft beers. This brewery is all about fun, family, friends, and good times. Artisan recipes, quality ingredients, and a whole lot of TLC make these original crafts worth a taste at their San Antonio and Helotes locations. 7114 Oaklawn Dr
RANGER CREEK BREWING AND DISTILLING Texas’ only brewstillery, handcrafting beer and bourbon one batch at a time with lots of love, attention, and Texas inspiration. Come learn about the art of this one of a kind San Antonio gem at one of their limited capacity tours in their tasting room or try one of their unique brews to go. Reservations required
THE REUP STATION This zero-waste, vegan community store consists of the plastic-free Famous Juice CO, hot food bar, grab ‘n’ go meals, bulk refills of grains and plant-based products, along with specialty grocery items. BYOC (bring your own container) or purchase a refillable mason jar at this zero waste facility catering to all of your health needs!
4834 Whirlwind Dr
13469 Wetmore Rd
DINING
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SA EATS
LA BOTANICA The food at La Botanica embodies the rich traditions of TexMex, Gulf Coast, New Mexican, and Mexican cuisine. They are a vegan restaurant with a full bar and community space that’s dog friendly! 2911 N St Mary’s St
GLUTEN-FREE
5 POINTS LOCAL Breathe… Nourish… Connect 5 Points Local has created
SWEET TREATS
BAKLOVAH BAKERY & SWEETS Baklovah is a member of the Pasha Mediterranean Grill restaurant family that specializes in baked goods and sweets from across the Mediterranean. Inspired by tradition and time-honored recipes, Baklovah is sure to expand your culinary sweet tooth.
POWERHOUSE BAKERY Owned by a registered Dietician and personal trainer, Powerhouse Bakery designs their recipes to showcase the healthiest stuff on Earth and use 100% gluten-free & non-GMO ingredients and hand-picked local fresh produce for all of their culinary creations.
BIRD BAKERY Enjoy delicious and responsibly sourced baked goods and savory lunch items at Bird Bakery, nestled in Alamo Heights. Delicious cupcakes along wonderful sweet treats, including buttermilk pie, lemon bars, monster cookies, and pecan squares are baked fresh daily!
9329 Wurzbach Rd #104
4902 Golden Quail
5912 Broadway
a space centered around these three essentials to healthy bodies, minds and communities. Inspiring a community of intentional living and wellness through yoga, local clean food and connection. Enjoy 100% glutenfree cuisine and experience their open patio dining! 1017 N FLORES.
DOG FRIENDLY THE COVE This pup-friendly restaurant, laundromat, and car wash is a great place to enjoy sustainable, organic, and local fare and Texas brews in a friendly environment. Enjoy live music on the patio, or take your food to-go. 606 W Cypress St
S O C I A L
M E D I A
@ s a n a n t o n i o w o m a n
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LA TUNA GRILL A San Antonio favorite for 16 years, La Tuna Grill serves up delicious Southtown culinary cuisine and cold brews at the ice house. Come and enjoy outside dining and try one of their delicious fusions of Tex-Mex, Seafood, Cajun, and American Classics. Pups are welcome! Ice House temporarily closed. Grill open for outside dining and take out.
Betos also serves some of the best tacos in town and prides itself on a fusion of Mexican street food and Latin soul food. 8142 Broadway
100 Probandt St
THE FRIENDLY SPOT ICEHOUSE
EL TACO GARAGE Proudly serving San Antonio since 2005, Lee’s El Taco Garage serves authentic Mexican food in an upbeat atmosphere. Enjoy time with your pup and a margarita on their outdoor patio or order your meal curbside. 8403 Broadway
This kid and dog-friendly ice house located in the heart of Southtown boasts over 300 brews to choose from and serves light Mexican and American fare in an open and enthusiastic environment.
90+ locations throughout Texas, each with a friendly neighborhood vibe that can only come from a 4th generation, family-owned Texas company.
943 S Alamo St
BETOS COMIDA LATINA Established in 1997, Betos has become a fan favorite of San Antonio locals and has been featured as a Food Network Fav with Guy Fieri. Specializing in empanadas,
HOPS AND HOUNDS Part of the El Taco Garage Family, Hops and Hounds is a brand new restaurant serving classic American food. Bring your fur baby and enjoy an outdoor playground for your fourlegged friend, a dog run, and plenty of space to run on this nearly one acre establishment. 13838 Jones Maltsberger Rd
GET YOUR HAPPY HOUR DELIVERED! Order online or download our mobile app for quick and easy delivery or in-store pick up.
twinliquors.com You must be 21+ to shop and order online, receive delivery, or pick up in store. All deliveries require in-person veriďŹ cation of a legal photo ID at point of delivery. Orders will NOT be left unattended. Limited delivery area and pick up only available at select locations. All in-store promotions and pricing do not apply to online order. Exclusions apply. Please drink responsibly.
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Not NotJust JustaaPhotograph! Photograph!My MyGoal Goalisisto toMake MakeEvery Every Image Image aa Frameable Frameable Piece Piece of of Photographic Photographic Art. Art. (Featured photo: Marketing image for a Montessori School)
...Creating beautiful images that capture a priceless memory that will be a personal or family treasure for years to come. In addition to photography, some of our clients also capture their special moments and tell their story with video. Contact me for a no-obligation initial consultation to begin the process of recording and preserving your special once-in-a-lifetime moments.
210.789.2033 www.jasonroberts.biz
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WEDDINGS
Alejandra Echeverria & Lionardo Alvarez
Samantha Harris & Andrew Rodriguez
August 8th, 2020 Sendera Springs Weddings & Events Gricelda’s Photography
April 17, 2020 Circle J Ranch Maggie Marie Photography
Justin & Angela Greenwood
Holly Jaynes & Jason Gardner
October 12, 2019 The McNay Art Museum Linda Rukavina Photography
June 20, 2020 The Oaks at Boerne Kate Roy of Snap Chic Photography
FINAL THOUGHTS
Photo of painting courtesy of Art Gallery Prudencia 2518 N Main Ave San Antonio, TX 78212 210-422-8681
Artist: Isabelle Lopez Kotara “Fell in Love” Acrylic Mixed Media on Canvas 48 x 48 112
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The Fall
By Andrea “Vocab� Sanderson
Cotton candy tapestry, taffeta bows and throw pillows became my place of landing. A serenade of softness surrounded my feet. I was planted firmly in bountiful affection. My knees buckled from the beauty. Electric clouds let a loose a cascade of desire descending upon me. My soul was saturated. I felt appreciated. My toes were glitter polished in poetry. All this to say, it was absurdly sweet the way your love knocked me off my feet. I heard Stevie Wonder and Sinatra singing. I was embraced by congratulatory salutations ringing in chorus. The birds chirped a little louder. Rainbows arced overhead vibrantly. Feathery fuchsia sensations and smoked purple passion tinted the scenery, sashaying in zigzags and whimsical streaks. My heart found its peak; and I have tipped over.
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Steve Crozier ...Your Colorado Connection!
If you have to work from home, home can be ANYWHERE.
Search mountain retreat properties:
www.stevecrozier.net
Acacia OB/GYN has relocated to better serve you.
Henry Garza III, MD, FACOG
Lisa Ng, DO, FACOG
Olivia Green,
Antonio Chavez, DO
Valentin Almendarez, MD, FACOG
Holly Riley,
Certified Nurse Midwife
Certified Nurse Midwife
JOINING US THIS FALL: Christina Gutierrez, MD, FACOG and Jose Farina, MD, FACOG
Acacia OB/GYN has expanded its practices to better serve the women of San Antonio and surrounding communities. Committed to providing quality medical care for women at every stage of life, our services include: � Prenatal care � Labor and delivery � Gynecology
� Preventative care � Family Planning � Infertility evaluation
� Treatment for infections and disease � Care for menopause
� Minimally invasive gynecological surgery
Visit our new clinic locations: 1 7940 Floyd Curl Drive, Medical Tower II
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Suite 900 San Antonio, Texas 78229
1604
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2 5000 Baptist Health Drive Suite 102 Schertz, Texas 78154
281 410
421
10
151
Call today to schedule an appointment: � 210-226-7827 � AcaciaOBGYN.com
Schertz 35
San Antonio
4 3
90
87
13
1604 35
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410
281
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1604 181
W E A LT H MANAGEMENT
Feel secure with your financial future. Whether you’re planning for your retirement or building your financial legacy, it should always be done with a partner who’s only focus is your needs. At Broadway Bank Wealth Management, our advisors are held to the Fiduciary Standard—this means we are obligated by regulations to place your interests above our own. In times of uncertainty, this obligation provides our clients with a steadfast sense of security. Our team of highly credentialed professionals will deliver thoughtful guidance while working to protect what you’ve worked so hard to build. Let us help you secure your financial future. In person, over the phone or online. W E A LT H M A N A G E M E N T
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B R O A D W A Y . B A N K / W E A LT H
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(210) 283-4014
INVESTMENT PRODUCTS ARE: NOT FDIC INSURED • NOT A DEPOSIT • NOT INSURED BY A FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGENCY • NOT GUARANTEED BY THE BANK • MAY LOSE VALUE Rev. 08/20 / #439936100