Seguin Magazine - June 2023

The big benefits of keeping bird companions a flock of quail

Reading RSVP

Senior citizens volunteer their time to help children develop better reading skills

faces of inspiration

Ceramics artist finds her creative expression with unique mug design

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June

FEATURES

CULINARY CREATIONS ON THE SCENE

AROUND TOWN

Photo by Theresa Davis

Jesse Miller and Joel Davis practice

Desiree

Graphic

Rebecca Harrison

Writers

Emi Aubin

Felicia Frazar

Grim Gilbreath

Rebecca Harrison

Bianca Rawlings

Danny Story

Photographers

Felicia Frazar

Victoria Gaytan

Megan Granzin

Gay Lynn Olsovsky

As we celebrate Seguin Magazine’s 10-year milestone of publishing, marked by our annual Senior Health and Wellness issue, I can’t help but reminisce about a childhood memory from when I had chickenpox at the age of 10. During that time, I stayed with my grandmother, who has been a big part of taking care of me since my birth. Although it wasn’t any different from her usual care, that particular moment remains vivid in my mind. I believe it’s those moments that have greatly influenced the nurturing mother I have become today. She may not realize this, but a large part of my heart belongs to her and always will.

One of the most incredible things I have come to realize about Seguin in my time here is that the senior citizens do a lot to have a lasting impact on countless lives. They serve as inspiring role models, and demonstrate unwavering determination, resilience, and, above all, boundless love for others. Through their experiences, they offer invaluable life lessons, guiding and uplifting those around them.

In this edition of Seguin Magazine, we delve into the captivating world of ceramic arts, uncover the fascinating world of quail raising and the rewards of nurturing these delightful creatures, explore the heartwarming impact of volunteers who selflessly devote their time to bringing the magic of storytelling to young minds, and celebrate the passions, contributions, and remarkable spirit of senior citizens, who continue to inspire us all.

Reading With Purpose

Cynthia Points spends an hour each week working with two Jefferson Elementary third graders, helping them build their vocabularies and improve their reading skills.

Points works through RSVP’s America Reads program and has seen how much the two students have progressed in just a school year’s time.

“I’m working with third-grade children who primarily are not reading at grade level and I’ve seen the kids progress in a couple of ways,” she said.

America Reads is a volunteer-based organization that visits schools to read to children and help them develop better reading skills.

Barbara Weyland, MPH, program director of RSVP of Central Texas, and America Reads Volunteer Coordinator Patricia Buckley said program volunteers read books aloud to children and help guide the children as the youngsters read books like “Pete the Cat,” which is extremely popular here.

Volunteers mentor the children in overall literacy and work with schools to tutor children at specified grade levels.

There tend to be two groups that stand out in schools — vocally gifted kids unafraid to speak out in class, and vocally troubled kids who cause problems in class, Buckley said. However,

Story by Emi Aubin and Felicia Frazar

Photos by Theresa Davis

Helping students grow their reading skills for a better future

it’s the quiet, middle-of-the-road kids who don’t always get attention they need, Weyland said.

“They're amazing kids, but the teacher never knew because they were so shy,” she said. “They weren't showing it. And so, we get these kids and they just blossom, and then by the end of the year, they're doing so good. If we can tutor 20% of kids one-on-one at each grade level, not only does it help those kids individually, but it helps the schools. It helps the overall letter grades since schools are concerned with that. It helps the schools’ overall test scores. And then we help a new group the next year.”

This was Points’ first year volunteering with the program and it is one she will cherish.

“It was good. It is amazing,” she said. “They’re just voracious and they want to learn. They’re excited, but they need this extra help. They always look forward to seeing us.”

Points learned about the program through a fellow church member, who really wanted to increase the volunteer base.

“Patti is just a real go-getter as far as wanting to get this program set up at Spirit of Joy and making sure we had people out there representing our church and representing our mission in helping the children in our community,” Points said. “It brings me to tears every time I think about it, in a good way.”

The students and volunteers meet at the beginning of the year and start their journey through a workbook provided by America Reads. The volunteers can either read to the students with them following along, work on sight words — familiarizing young readers with grade-level terms — or listen and follow along as students read books out loud.

Over time, the students become more comfortable with their skill levels and choose their own books to read, Points said.

“I’m just going to make you more comfortable reading and make reading a part of your life because reading

is part of my life,” she said. “I would be nowhere if it weren’t for reading. A love of reading has taken me places that I will never go, I’ve never been.”

Points was skeptical at first due to the time limitation but has seen how their weekly routine has helped these two students improve.

“At first, I thought, this is crazy. I only get half an hour per student per week, but it has made a difference,” she said. “It is the continuity every week. It is the doing this, asking them to take a book home and having them read it that has really garnered the most improvement.”

Connections between the kids and volunteers are real, Weyland said. Weyland recalled an encounter when a child recognized one of the volunteers in a grocery store. The child excitedly ran up to the volunteer at full throttle to talk to them.

“Kids do not forget their bonds with these people,” she said.

America Reads doesn’t only help children, it’s beneficial for its volunteers, who are at least 55 years old. The seniors might need the program just as much since it helps provide them with community and camaraderie.

“Studies have shown that seniors who volunteer have lower rates of depression, have more mobility, and have more satisfaction in their lives because of their social interactions. It lowers the rates of heart disease and depression,” Weyland said. “There are a lot of benefits to older folks, who sometimes become very isolated once they retire.”

The team of volunteers has its own culture, Buckley said.

“My tutors, many of whom have never known each other before working together, become very close to one another,” she said. “They make their own little social groups. That also helps because if someone has a doctor's appointment or is otherwise absent, they’ll trade off and tutor each other's kids. They truly become their own community, and it’s really good for them.”

The Many Faces of

Inspiration

Using ceramics as a therapeutic outlet for expression

St. James Catholic School hides many treasures behind its walls, and since 1997, one of those has taken the form of Karen Baize, its resident art teacher. Having arrived in the area from Delaware with her husband, it only took Baize a month after moving to find employment teaching at St. James and to find another home with the Seguin Art League.

Story by Grim Gilbreath

Photos by Victoria Gaytan and courtesy of Karen Baize

While she originally expected her employment at the school to last for a couple years, Baize has eagerly helped sculpt the minds of young, local artists for more than two decades, and she doesn’t plan to stop any time soon. Baize found inspiration to teach within the musings of several gifted mentors, and she fell into the role of mentor herself.

While in Delaware, Baize had the good fortune of mentorship under her college art teacher Arturo Bassols. During this time Baize excelled in several different artistic mediums. After struggling with a love-hate relationship with ceramics,Baize found this particular medium had became a therapeutic outlet for her expression,and her preferred method of creativity. Under the guidance of her college professor, it didn’t take long for Baize to find her stride.

Once she relocated to the area, Baize’s path brought her to yet another skilled local artist, Walt Glass, a fellow sculptor who was in need of help around his own workshop. Under Glass’ tutelage, Baize developed her signature face mugs and learned a vast assortment of techniques and tricks to clay sculpting.

The pair worked together for years before Glass’ untimely passing, which dealt a devastating blow to the local art community as well as Baize. The duo had become colleagues, and close friends. Since she had the honor of being a part of his art process, Baize carries on Glass’ legacy through his teachings and her art.

Standing in her cozy workshop surrounded by her beautiful artwork and collections of various sculptures, not to mention her feline assistants, one can’t help but have the feeling of being watched as her face mugs keep a close eye on every step taken. Inspiration for the unique mugs struck Baize one day with a simple thought:

“I was sitting there and I had just

made a mug, and I thought, ‘ This is boring! What if I make a face?” she said. “ I thought, ‘This is kinda cool.”

After the first one, it didn’t take long for Baize to find herself churning out face mugs left and right. Whether the mugs are your cup of tea, you can certainly use them to enjoy one. All of them are more than just works of art but also functional for your beverage of choice. Baize imbues each piece of clay with her own distinct style. Almost every nook and cranny in her shop is adorned with face mugs and vast assortments of other, equally impressive pieces.

The art Baize creates is made with her hands and with the hands of her mentors, who leave their marks on almost every piece she produces. They live through Baize’s art, as their profound influence on her work is quite apparent. Becoming a mentor for new generations of artists while immortalizing past generations, Baize is a face of inspiration for countless patrons and local artists through her art and through her teachings at St. James. As the next generation of artists take the stage in Seguin, there is no doubt more than a few will carry on this lineage of inspiration and creativity, thus crafting an endless chain of guidance and encouragement that Seguin so desperately deserves.

LITTLE FLOCKBig Benefits

Quail Keeping packs amazing Profits for the elderly animal lover

Story by Rebecca Harrison

No one can deny that animals enrich our lives: pets grace us with their presence, farmyard animals teach us lessons about responsibility and the exotics of the zoo help keep the value of life in mind. It’s really no wonder then, that as people age, they find themselves looking for hobbies centered around animals to keep them active and engaged. One such hobby that has taken the spotlight of popularity in recent years is quail keeping. These small, ground-dwelling birds are easy to maintain and provide a wide range of benefits to their keepers.

A major benefit to quail keeping is the physical activity it requires, an aspect that’s essential for maintaining good health in senior citizens. Setting up a quail coop, feeding and watering the birds and collecting eggs all require minimal to moderate physical effort. These activities help to improve cardiovascular health, build strength, and increase flexibility without being too strenuous, as pens required for quail are quite small. (Only a single square foot of space is recommended per bird.) In addition, tending to quails can help reduce the risk of falls, a danger the

World Health Organization says can plague 28-35% of the elderly population. By engaging in physical activities such as bending, stretching and generally tending these tiny birds, seniors can improve their balance and reduce the risk of injury in an unfortunate accident. According to a study put on by the National Health and Safety Association in 2018, The Human Animal Bond, quail keeping can also provide positive mental stimulation. Keeping birds requires attention to detail, problem-solving skills and the ability to learn and adapt. Anyone who’s ever been around an animal for more than five minutes can attest to these facts. These mental challenges can help improve cognitive function and memory, which are important aspects of healthy aging. Furthermore, the social interaction involved in quail keeping can help reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation, which are common among older adults. Caring for quails can provide a sense of purpose and accomplishment, leading to increased self-esteem and overall well-being. Quails, and birds of many kinds, can be great companions for senior citizens. They are social crea-

tures that enjoy being around humans and other quails. Their friendly nature makes them easy to bond with, providing a source of companionship and emotional support.

They’re generally quiet animals, which can be helpful for those who live in populated areas. Their quietness allows those in smaller environments to keep them and watch quails go about their daily activities. As with any animal, spending time with them can be relaxing and soothing, reducing stress and anxiety levels. In the current world, who doesn’t need that?

One of the most significant benefits of raising quail, however, is the fresh and nutritious food they provide. Quail eggs are rich in protein, vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy addition to any diet. They are also lower in cholesterol and higher in nutrients than chicken eggs, making them an excellent choice for seniors who may be watching their cholesterol levels.

A dozen quail can produce 9-12 eggs per day on average, which, over the course of a week, is a LOT of food. Quail eggs are sweeter than chicken eggs and have a more robust flavor. They’re considered a delicacy in many states and are included in everything from fancy French cuisine to pickling brines in Cajun kitchens. Additionally, raising quail for meat can provide a source of fresh, organic protein. Quail meat is high in protein, low in fat and has a unique flavor that many people enjoy in the same manner as their eggs. Either way, they’re a winning food source.

Despite any costs or efforts required, maintaining a positive quality of life is a key issue for individuals as they move through life’s aging transitions. Interacting with animals, specifically social flock creatures such as quail, is a potential solution to the worst of those tensions and stressors that come with age. Keeping animals keeps people engaged in living and can potentially create happier lives throughout the best parts of the golden years. A micro flock can provide macro benefits to those willing to give it a try.

Alyson Kirchner, MD

Heart Healthy

Salmon Teriyaki

baked Salmon and veggies with an easy and delicious homemade teriyaki sauce

Ihave to admit, when my editor came to me and gave me the topic for this month’s article, I was both a little nervous and incredibly inspired. In case you haven’t gathered yet, healthy food isn’t necessarily my forte. I focus on flavor, then presentation and then health aspects. All of that is to say, I don’t make a habit of just eating pounds of butter, but I won’t shy away from it if that’s what the meal needs. This is different though. I immediately set out to make a beautiful, healthy dish that would both be easy to cook and packed full of flavor.

The trick was figuring out how I was going to do it. What protein, method of cooking, veggies and spices would I use?

I really racked my brain before I realized that almost any food can be healthy if the right care and attention are put in. So, I went another way and decided

to take it from another angle. How can I make something that people already eat but put a spin on it to make it new, fresh and exciting? That’s how I came to salmon: the fish that people either love or hate to eat (I’ll admit that it’s far from one of my favorites).

This month, I’m going to show you how to make salmon that even the biggest salmon hater will enjoy, and if you already love this heart-healthy fish, I’m going to show you a flavor-packed way of preparing it that maybe you haven’t tried yet. This teriyaki glazed salmon will not only be one of the best meals you’ve had in a long time, but it’ll also be one of the easiest meals you’ve cooked. Presentation almost takes care of itself, and you’re left with a wonderful, beautiful meal the health benefits of which you can really appreciate.

Story and photos by Danny Story

- INGREDIENTS -

*Makes 2 full servings

1 salmon filet (I suggest wild-caught. It makes a difference)

1 red onion, sliced

1 bag of fresh broccoli florets

1 cup of fresh grape tomatoes

1 tablespoon of minced garlic

1 sliced lemon

2 tablespoons of olive oil

1 teaspoon each of salt, turmeric, smoked paprika, ginger, and chili powder

For the sauce:

1 tablespoon of oyster sauce

1 teaspoon of soy sauce

1 teaspoon of sesame oil

½ teaspoon of raw sugar

½ teaspoon of ginger

½ teaspoon of minced garlic

Optional: sesame seeds on top

- INSTRUCTIONS -

1: The great thing about this dish is that it practically prepares itself. Put half of the filet in the middle of a large piece of parchment paper, followed by half of the prepared veggies placed around it. Then drizzle one tablespoon of olive oil over the top.

2: In a separate container, mix all of the dry spices together and sprinkle half over the top of your dish.

3: Place a slice of lemon on top of the fish and wrap up the parchment paper so that you have a nice, sealed steam bag. Repeat with the other half of the fish and veggies.

4: Place in the oven at 385 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 minutes.

5: Transfer to a plate, drizzle your sauce over and give a light covering of sesame seeds. You’re done!

I hope y’all enjoy eating this one as much as I enjoyed making it. It really gave me more things to consider in my approach to cooking. It doesn’t have to be difficult, bad for you, or expensive to be delicious and something to share. Until next time!

Certain foods have been found to positively affect mood, so incorporating them into your diet may help you stay positive even on those days when you get up on the wrong side of the bed.

· Fatty fish: A study from British researchers published in the Archives of General Psychiatry found that a daily dose of an omega-3 fatty acid called eicosapentaenoic acid, or EPA, helped patients with depression significantly reduce their feelings of sadness and pessimism.

· Nuts and seeds: The minerals selenium, copper, magnesium, manganese and zinc have all been linked to mental health and nuts are rich in each of those minerals. Hackensack Meridian Health notes that almonds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, walnuts and peanuts are particularly good sources of the immune system-boosting minerals zinc and magnesium.

· Dark, leafy greens: Dark, leafy greens like kale, spinach and collards are rich in iron and magnesium, both of which can increase serotonin levels and help reduce feelings of anxiety. Dark, leafy greens also help the body fight inflammation, which can have a positive effect on mood.

· Dark chocolate: Chocolate lovers may be happy to learn that dark chocolate can improve mood. A 2009 study published in the Journal of Proteome Research found that dark chocolate helped to reduce levels of the hormone cortisol, which has been linked to stress.

Making Moves Exercise at Any Age

A senior-safe exercise regimen for overall better health

By Bianca Rawlings, NASM (National Academy of Sports Medicine) certified personal trainer

Photos by Felicia Frazar

As a personal trainer, I have the pleasure of working with people from diverse backgrounds and of all ages. Some of my most committed clients are seniors who seek to improve their quality of life, reduce discomfort and enhance their overall vitality in their golden years. Effective exercise programs are customized and tailored to suit each person’s unique needs and goals, as no two people are alike in their physical abilities, limitations and preferences.

Exercise is a crucial component of maintaining health as people age, but it's important to approach it in a safe and

effective manner. I'll outline a suggested progression for a senior-safe exercise regimen that will help anyone achieve both short and long-term benefits.

It’s important to start with a warm-up. A gentle walk or light stretching will get the blood flowing and prepare your body for exercise.

From there, we move on to strength training exercises to help build muscle mass. Building a sturdy base helps prevent falls and improve overall mobility. Great strength training exercises include seated leg extensions, wall pushups and seated rows.

After strength training, it's important to work on cardiovascular fitness. Exercises like brisk walking, cycling or swimming help build up heart health and reduce the risk of chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure. Performing exercises like these in public places, such as parks or gyms, can provide social interaction and give seniors chances to make connections.

In addition to strength and cardiovascular training, flexibility exercises are important. These exercises can help improve range of motion and reduce the risk of injury. Yoga and Pilates are both great options for seniors looking to improve flexibility.

Including balance exercises in your workout routine can help maintain stability and reduce the risk of falls. These types of workouts include standing on one leg, heel-to-toe walks and balance board exercises.

Be sure to end your workout with a cool-down activity. Light stretching or a gentle walk will help bring your heart rate down and ease your body back into a state of rest.

Following such senior-safe exercise regimens will help any senior experience increased energy levels, improved mood and better sleep in the short term; and overall better health, increased mobility and independence, and a reduced risk of chronic conditions in the long run.

Exercising regularly is one of the best things anyone can do for their health and wellbeing. So grab your sneakers and get moving!

Choose local and independent for all your shopping needs! Thank you for continuing to support our community.

Going West Bracelet

Funky Monkey Mercantile - $12.99

Take a trip out west with the Going West Bracelet! This leather wrap bracelet, complete with a diamond-shaped medallion and subtle turquoise stone in the middle, will have you ready to go in no time.

308 E. Court St. | (210) 410-5943

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Bless Your Heart Platter

Gift & Gourmet - $36

Get the party started with this party platter! Inspired by the glitzy-cowgirl trend, this platter is perfect to serve snacks, sides and sweet treats. This platter comes with ribbed edging and is sure to add a unique look to any table.

212 S. Austin St. | (830) 379-1242

www.giftandgourmetseguin.com

Intensive Relief Rub

Seguin Botanicals - $90

A powerful and effective product for anyone looking to manage their pain. With 5000mg of CBD, this pain relief cream infuses into your skin quickly, providing a sustained, time-release effect on your discomfort and provides fast and long-lasting relief, so you can get back to doing the things you love. By combining our high-quality CBD with various other biodynamic, analgesic ingredients, this potent blend magnifies the efficacy and level of pain relief you receive.

110 N. Austin St. | (830) 433-4990

www.seguinbotanicals.com

Whether setting up to get that fantastic sunrise shot or staying up all night editing, photographers need their caffeine. Nothing’s better than a nice cup of coffee or tea to get moving. A photo coffee mug that matches your personal philosophy as a photographer or simply makes you smile before a shoot can be a great way to begin a photography adventure.

EVENT CALENDAR

-June-

Central park summer concert series: every Sunday– 7 - 8:30 PM

The Seguin Downtown Concert Series offers something for almost every musical taste! The family-friendly concerts are free and held in Seguin’s beautiful Central Park. Central Park in historic downtown Seguin has plenty of grassy open space for kids to run barefoot. For four consecutive Sunday evenings in June, bands and music groups will take center stage in the Central Park bandstand. Performances will include a mix of music with a final patriotic concert that salutes veterans and active military on July 2. LOCATION: Central Park, 201 S. Austin St.

2023 Father/Daughter Ball: tenth – 6:30 - 9 PM

Save the date for Seguin Police Department’s 2023 Father/Daughter Ball! This year’s theme is Sweetheart Ball! The annual Father/Daughter Ball will feature similarities from previous Cinderella Ball’s, as well as fun new additions to make it a night to remember. Catering by Big Dog Catering, portraits by Beautiful Subjects, music by DJ Chris Neal and guest appearance from Princess Belle. Location: Seguin Events Complex, 950 S. Austin St.

Flag Day Retirement Ceremony: fourteenth – 6:15 - 7:15 PM

What is Flag Day? What do you do when a flag becomes faded and tattered? Join us and find out the answers to these questions. After the Flag Retirement Ceremony and TAPS, H-E-B will be serving hot dogs, chips and drinks (while supplies last).

LOCATION: Faith Lutheran Church, 1326 E. Cedar St.

Third Thursday: Fifteenth – 4 - 8 PM

Come out to see what Downtown Seguin has to offer! Late-night shopping, food trucks and live music. Location: Central Park, 201 S. Austin St.

Red, White & Blue Art Show: Seventeenth – 10 am - 12 PM

Seguin Art League’s Red, White & Blue Art Show will accept veterans’ art as well as members’ art. The show will hang until July 15. LOCATION: Seguin Art League, 104 S. Austin St.

Seguin rocks the runway: twenty-second – 6 - 9 PM

Fashion show of local merchants featuring items for sale in the stores. Come out for a fun night of fashion, food and fabulous door prizes! Location: The Silver Center, 510 E. Court St.

Casino Night 2023: twenty-second – 6:30 - 9:30 PM

Bet on making a difference for the Guadalupe County Children’s Advocacy Center! Enjoy a night of fun while giving a child a voice! Gaming tables, silent auction, prizes, hors-d’oeuvres & cash bar. LOCATION: Blue Bonnet Palace, 17630 Lookout Rd., Selma.