Š2008 Hotel Valencia Corporation. ValenciaŽ is a registered trademark of Newhall Land & Farming Company and is licensed to Hotel Valencia Corporation. The Valencia logo is a registered service mark of Eland Investment Corporation.
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So Near The Riverwalk. So Far From Ordinary. Indulge your senses at San Antonio’s sleek, sophisticated Hotel Valencia Riverwalk. Dine at Citrus restaurant on eclectic cuisine prepared by awardwinning chef Jeffery Balfour. Enjoy a freshly made mojito at the ultra hip lounge Vbar overlooking the Riverwalk. SM
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210.227.9700
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W W W. H OT E LVA L E N C I A . CO M
©2008 Hotel Valencia Corporation. Valencia® is a registered trademark of Newhall Land & Farming Company and is licensed to Hotel Valencia Corporation. The Valencia logo is a registered service mark of Eland Investment Corporation.
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TABLE OF
CONTENTS
M A G A Z I N E
20 COVER STORY BEYOND VANITY
Dr.Thomas Jeneby & Martha Pelaez reversing the damages of physical abuse through Cosmetic Surgery
ELITEBUSINESS ELITESTYLE
ELITELIFE
the perfect 19th century bar,
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10 Rita Verreos Survivor Story
12 Fashion Week SA 18 The New Brow 16 Fall Fashion
20 Beyond Vanity 22 Power of a Dream
ELITECUISINE
ELITEENTERTAIN ELITECOLUMNS 06 Letter from the publisher 08 Calendar of Events 09 Feature Movie
30 30 The Rosario’s Success Story 26 The History Behind Mexican
Cuisine
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36 34 Life in Singles 36 Jazz in the park
Fundraise
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| 5 
LETTER FROM THE
PUBLISHER
I
t’s hard to believe that summer has finally come to an end. With the cooler weather, comes trading in the flipflops for boots and the shorts for pants. The transition may be a little difficult with Texas weather, but remember FASHION is keen and should make it to the top of our priority list. As with fall, we relish fashion in all its beauty, excitement, and energy. It’s time to finally pull out the sweaters, coats and jackets, blazers and of course it’s also the time we can finally start the layering. Fall is truly the perfect season for fashion and San Antonio doesn’t fall far behind New York City, Los Angeles, Dallas or Austin when it comes to fashion. Inspired by Fashion Week in these cities, Fashion Week San Antonio will be held this year from October 9-15. The Alamo City’s finest designers and brand houses will showcase this year’s event by displaying their latest collections through runway shows and fashion exhibitions. This week is definitely what all us Fashionistas have been waiting for all year! This fall, fashion isn’t just about looking good; it’s about feeling good especially when the collective female identity has taken some blows. In this issue, we feature Dr. Thomas Jeneby, a local cosmetic surgeon who in as little as a year has changed the lives of many battered woman. Through a partnership with San Antonio based, Family Violence Preventative Services, Inc., Dr. Jeneby has transformed the lives of these women through cosmetic procedures at no cost to them. This truly is a humanitarian act. We hope to continue to share these extraordinary acts of kindness in future issues of Elite Magazine. We thank you for reading Elite Magazine, we encourage any comments you may have that will help accommodate you as a reader. Remember, looking good and having fun is consistently in style.
Stay in Style,
Felix R. Salinas Jr Editor/Publisher
M A G A Z I N E
Publisher
Felix R. Salinas Jr.
Art Director
Jonathan Guzman
Account Executives Isabel Pequeno Oscar Gastelum
Contributing Writers
Isabel Pequeño, Rebecca Gomez, Kimberly Gonzalez, Eric Castillo, Maritza Plata, Vic Hernandez
Published by
ELITE Magazine
Mail Address
4811 Fredericksburg Rd Suite B San Antonio, TX 78229
Advertising information Call us at 210-979-9994 Email: advertise@ elite210magazine.com www.Elite210Magazine.com
Comments or Ideas
ideas@elite210magazine.com DISTRIBUTED FREE TO SELECT HEB MARKETS, ALL CVS PHARMACY, BALLY TOTAL FITNESS CENTERS, SEARS, SELECT BOUTIQUES AND SPAS& OTHER LOCAL RESTAURANTS. HOTELS SUCH AS MARRIOT’S, HOLIDAY INN’S, DOWNTOWN HOTELS, RIVER WALK HOTELS, AND AIRPORT AREA HOTELS, SAN ANTONIO HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, MUSEUMS & GALLERIES, VISITOR’S CENTERS, HOSPITALS, SELECT ADVERTISERS, OFFICES, AND RESTAURANTS THROUGHOUT THE FINE CITY OF SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS. ELITE 210 MAGAZINE DOES NOT ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY OR GUARANTEES AUTHENTICITY IN OFFERS BY THE ADVERTISERS. REPRODUCTION OF ARTWORK IN ELITE 210 MAGAZINE IS COMPLETELY PROHIBITED.
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ELITELIFE
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
September / October 2011 FOTOSEPTIEMBRE USA INTERNATIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY FESTIVAL 09/01 - 09/30 @ Citywide | Regional
DOS XX TASTE OF THE RIVER WALK 09/07 - 09/08 @ River Walk | 5-11 pm
MODELS & MANNEQUINS: A PASSION FOR FASHION 2011 09/07 @ Blue Star Contemporary Art Center | 7pm - 10pm 09/08 @ The Shops at La Cantera | 7pm - 10pm
FASHION EN HAUTE - A NIGHT OF FALL FASHION IN THE PARK 09/10 @ HemisFair Park Fountain Plaza | 7-10 pm
CIRCO PHANTASMAGORIA: JUPITER MOON 3 10 YEAR ANNIVERSARY 09/17 - 09/18 @ Club Korova | 7pm - 3am
LAS AMERICAS GOLF TOURNAMENT 09/23 @ Westin La Cantera Resort | 6 am
17TH ANY BABY CAN ANNUAL STYLE SHOW AND LUNCHEON 09/27 @ The Pearl Stable | 11am - 1pm
FASHION WEEK SAN ANTONIO 10/09 - 10/15 @ fashionweekSA.com
OCTOBERFEST SAN ANTONIO 10/14 - 10/15 @ Beethovan Maennerchor Garten | 5pm
22ND ANNUAL BIKE MS 10/15 - 10/16 @ AT&T Center
GARDENS BY MOONLIGHT 10/15 @ San Antonio Botanical Gardens | 7pm
ROCK THE CURE: 2011 WALK TO CURE DIABETES 10/30 @ The Alamodome | 9am
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ELITELIFE
ELITE FEATURE MOVIE “Planet of the Apes” Rise of the Planet of the Apes is a 2011 American science fiction film directed by Rupert Wyatt. The film stars James Franco and Andy Serkis.
Plot
A single act of both compassion and arrogance leads to a war unlike any other -- and to the Rise of the Planet of the Apes. The Oscar-winning visual effects team that brought to life the worlds of Avatar and Lord of the Rings is breaking new ground, creating a CGI ape that delivers a dramatic performance of unprecedented emotion and intelligence, and epic battles on which rest the upended destinies of man and primate. -(C) Official Site
www.santikos.com
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ELITEBUSINESS
Rita Verreos The RIGHT PLACE and the RIGHT TIME for our hometown SURVIVOR. Written by Elite Magazine
“This isn’t Survivor…it’s Thrival!” That’s what Boo Bernis, one of Rita’s favorite Castmates from her Season SURVIVOR Fiji said during one of the episodes. Unfornately, that wasn’t the case for the Ravu tribe, the trwibe that Rita was on. They were the underdogs, losing consecutively to the other tribe, thus, getting weaker and weaker as the days went by; and went by, they did. Rita says she felt both “proud” and “amazed” to wake up on that desolate Fijian island, 15 days after setting foot as the ONLY person from her hometown to ever become a “Castaway” on one of the toughest and longest running Reality shows. Survive she did, in fact, this extraordinary woman can now quote her friend Boo in saying that life for her, after a divorce which left her having to provide for her two children on her own, “isn’t Survivor, it’s thrival!” She says this, however, very humbly. To know Rita is to see a child of God. Her faith emanates from her and, makes her stand out wherever she goes and at whatever she does. It’s her faith that she credits for the extraordinary opportunity of being on SURVIVOR and for everything that has happened to her career since.
Rita Verreos casted away at the Fiji Islands for “SURVIVOR”, one of the toughest and longest running Reality shows.
Over coffee, and this woman needs coffee to get the energy she needs to do ALL the things she does: ELITE: Rita, tell us, what do you have on your plate right now? RITA: I have quite a bit, as usual. I always tell my friends, I’m happily busy. I was THRILLED to get a call from a man I admire very much, Miguel Gutierrez. Thanks to him and Wellmed’s sponsorship, I’ve got a new TV Show on Azteca America, “Platicando.” I’m so excited with this. It’s an innovative format that Azteca America & Wellmed are looking lo launch in all their markets. I also co-Host a weekly Radio show, “Longhorn Live,” currently airing 6-8pm on Radiola, 93.7fm (www. radiOLAfm.com ). I’m also, continuously filming the World Car commercials and informercials for which I’m so honored to be a Spokesperson in both English and Spanish (thank you to Art Kiolbassa for believing in me and for giving me this opportunity). If that weren’t enough, I recently received offers to play the lead in a couple indie films and I volunteer my work as Emcee to help many charities…a calling I found soon thereafter my participation on SURVIVOR. ELITE: Being at the right place at the right time seems to be an underlying theme in your life, Rita! RITA: One of my favorite lines is from a Robbie Williams song called “Real Love,” He sings: “I sit and talk to God…and He just laughs at my plans!” Any time I’ve tried to plan something for myself, God comes along with something so much better suited for me. I remember when I wanted so badly to become the Co-Host of “Great Day SA.” When they chose Bridget, instead of being upset, I said a prayer. I Thanked God for picking such a deserving candidate, Bridget (it is to her that I owe my stint as the Fill-In Traffic Anchor for the Kens 5 morning news. She’s simply amazing, I ADORE her. I, then, reminded God that I trusted His plan for me. The following week, I received a contract to become a Guest Host on HSN, a nationwide cable shopping network! An amazing experience and opportunity. ELITE: Rita, you’re a “Pandora’s Box,” I recently found out you’re a former Miss Venezuela? RITA: Yes! I was a contestant vying for the Miss Venezuela crown back in 1988! As a finalist, I did get to go as Miss Venezuela
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without learing to ask for and accept help.” So..taking Di’s advice..I need an intern! LOL-seriously though!
ELITE: Speaking of, you got a really glamourous way of helping to raise awareness for Breast Cancer, being featured as “Ms. July,” in the “Strike a Pose for Breast Cancer,” Celebrity Calendar.
Please show this hardworking Single mother your support by joining her fanpage:
RITA: Yes! I know that opportunity came from above. I’m sorry, I always get teary eyed when I talk about this. I just know that this way of helping to bring awareness/raise funds for Breast Cancer came from my Guardian Angel, Diedra (Bradshaw Auci). After 10 years of fighting, Di , my best childhood girlfriend, lost her fight. She was crucial in my deciding to participate on SURVIVOR. She convinced me to do it and was the main “Reference,” they called when screeing me. I’ll never forget how happy Di was when she called me to tell her CBS had called her. They asked her to tell them something she admired about me and something negative about me. Her answers TOTALLY surprised me. She told them that w/o a doubt, she thought I was the most intelligent person she knew! (thank u Di!). Now, for my negative “Rita NEVER asks for help. Although it’s admirable to see her raising her kids on her own, she needs to learn to ask for help..I wouldn’t have survived cancer this long,
facebook.com/ ritaverreosfanpage or twitter.com/ritaverreos
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She’s right and the truth is I wouldn’t be wearing the many hats I wear, were it not for the help that I receive, mainly from my parents. If you think I’m energetic..wait till you meet them They are, by far, the MOST extraordinary people on this planet. Their faith in me knows no boundaries…too much faith..as I recall when I was recruited to participate on SURVIVOR, I was scared to death and my mom was all gung-ho, reiterating her favorite life-long saying, you know Latina moms and abuelitas are FULL of adages...”if others can do it, so can you!”.. “Alrighty, mom, how bout you go on Survivor?” …silence…not so much, huh? That’s what I thought! LOL, but off I went because I had the MOST powerful forces, God protecting me and my parents & children, the wind beneath my wings pushing me and helping me to live out my favorite adage, hey, I’m a Latina mom too! “Persistance Beats Resistance!” ▲
To read even more about the Wonderful events that Rita volunteers her time as Emcee and much more! www.ritaverreos.blogspot. com
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to a couple of international pageants. I credit the training I received at the Miss Venzuela finishing school for giving me the first tools I reached for when wondering how the heck I was gonna provide for my kids on my own after 11 yrs. of having put my career aside to tend to my home and family in Mexico City. In 2002, we moved here, soon thereafter, I found myself divorced in a city where I knew no one, but my kids and God. So I prayed. The messenger God sent me was my brother. He advised me to contact the Miss USA organization that had just been bought by Donald Trump, let them know that former Miss Venezuela was residing in Texas. Within minutes of sending an email, I received a call from the Miss Texas organization asking me to be a Judge in their pageant. That was a fateful opportunity for it is there that I met Mr. Keith Lewis. He and I became instant “family.” Very learned in the world of pageantry, Keith knew the prestige and weight of the training I had under my belt. He immediately hired me as the Stage Presence/Runway Modeling Coach for the pageant he Directed, Miss California USA. While in Los Angeles, Coaching our then Miss Teen California for the Miss Teen USA pageant, I was spotted by Erika Shay, a Casting Director for Mark Burnett, the producer of SURVIVOR, Amazing Race, Apprentice.. etc. etc. Next thing I knew, I was stranded on one of Fiji’s many islands…and NOT one of the resort filled, paradise ones! LOL… as a matter of fact, I don’t know where they get those “Fiji” spring waters…we had NO water on Ravu island! Not that I’m upset after 4 years! I often tell people I have PTSD.. Post Traumatic Survivor Disorder…LOL
ELITESTYLE
San Antonio’s Premiere Fashion Event Fashion Week San Antonio is a time for the up-and-coming designers, models and all fashion talent in San Antonio to cultivate the richness of the culture, style and fashion in San Antonio. This special week will truly provide a platform for these talented individuals to show what they have to offer in the realm of fashion to the rest of the community, and our hope is to expand the showcase to the whole southern region of the United States.
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ELITESTYLE
The Emerging Designer Fashion Show I am most looking forward to the Emerging Designer Fashion Show that is going to be the headline show for Fashion Week San Antonio 2011. Although this is the third annual Fashion Week in the Alamo City, this is the first time that we will be having this particular show. The mission of the Emerging Designer Fashion Show is to offer a platform for aspiring designers living in San Antonio and surrounding areas to strut their designs down the runway and enhance awareness of their line, designs and fashions that they work so hard to create. WWW.ELITE210MAGAZINE.COM
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Fashion Week SA Making an Impact Because of Fashion Week San Antonio and the many schools in the city that now offer fashion programs, San Antonio now has a fashion community – and it is one that is becoming more established each day. Ten years ago when I was in college, I was told that in order to make it in the fashion industry or in order to work in the fashion industry, you had to move to New York or Los Angeles. Now, that is not the case. We have so many people in San Antonio that have amazing talent in the fashion realm, and they are now able to showcase that through the platform of Fashion Week and actually are able to live out their dreams in our city.
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FASHION WEEK SA CALENDAR
VENUE: Pearl Brewery TIME: 3:00 PM HOSTS: FGI- San Antonio, San Antonio Restaurant Association/ A Taste of San Antonio TICKETS: Sold for $25 at the door
Monday / October 10 Fashion Week Kick- Off Party and Boutique Showcase VENUE: Redberry Mansion TIME: 6:30-10:30 pm HOSTS: FGI of San Antonio TICKETS: $20 FGI Members/ $15 Students/ $30 Non FGI Members
Wednesday / October 12 Eklectic Fashion Show
VENUE: El Tropicano Riverwalk Hotel 110 Lexington Ave, TIME: Cocktail Hour- 6:30-7:30 pm Fashion Show- 8:00-9:00 pm HOSTS: Coco Productions, Art by the Yard Tickets: Pre-Sale Tickets $20.00, VIP $40.00, and General Admission $20.00
Thursday / October 13 Bless Your Heart & Bless Others
VENUE: Bless Your Heart Giftique in Sunset Ridge TIME: 5:00-9:00 pm HOSTS: Bless Your Heart Giftique TICKETS: TBA
Friday / October 14 Emerging Designer Gala and Rising Star Fashion Industry Awards
VENUE: Sunset Station,1174 E Commerce TIME: 7:00-11:00 pm HOSTS: The Fashion Group International of San Antonio TICKETS: General Admission $25 (Non FGI Members) $20 - FGI Members/Students VIP Admission - $100 VIP Admission / $85 – VIP FGI Members (VIP Dinner & Rising Star Awards, and VIP Runway Show Seating) $1000 – VIP Table / $850 – VIP FGI Members (VIP Dinner & Rising Star Awards, and VIP Runway Show Seating
Saturday / October 15 Synergy Runway Experience Venue: TBA Time: 7:00 pm Hosts: Escape Spa and Top Knotch Officials Tickets: General Admission Tickets $20.00 and $10.00 for students WWW.ELITE210MAGAZINE.COM
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Sunday / October 9 Fashion Week Soft Opening and Going Green Fashion Show
ELITESTYLE
D&G
FALL FASHION 16
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ELITESTYLE
By
Rebeca Gomez
I
feel the excitement of the coming of a new season rushing through my veins. Summer is almost over and with it, floral prints, mini camel shorts and open sandals are gone. With its woodsy aromas and changing color leaves autumn announces its proximity followed closely by wintertime. The only question in my mind is one: What to wear this incoming season? And there is only one answer to that, Dolce & Gabbana. There’s no going wrong. Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana successfully brought back the once fashionable polka dots with an out of this world twist, instead of full colored circles, stars. Literally out of this world, this galactic print conquered D&G’s Fall-Winter collection for 2011-12. Hollywood superstars, obviously, welcomed them as one of their kin. From mother-to be Jessica Alba who wore a maxi long-dress flowing with stars to the red carpet premier of her new
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movie Spy Kids, to Rosario Dawson’s shorter version of a cocktail dress with butterfly sleeves -and of course starsyou can see stars everywhere, is a blow to the head! If this seems too much you can always go with something subtler, a start inserts leather pumps, the ideal blend of fantasy and sophistication like walking in the clouds. For the more audacious, in the style of Lady Gaga’s look for the MTV Video Music Awards or eighties Boy George’s “Karma Chameleon”, you might want to try Gabbana’s initiative of dressing girls up like boys in tuxedos and brogues. As they did with Beyonce’s masculine tuxedo look which included a purple sequin jacket with wide black lapels which was teamed with a white shirt with a fitted black band and black loose-fitting pants to smartly accommodate her pregnancy. Congrats!
prints and essentials, a must have is a snake print clutch, perfect for day to night transitions. No real snakeskin please. On the other hand, we need to say bye bye to the block-coloring trend and stick with simple, clean lines like the minimalistic chic of Stella Mc Cartney in now colors: chocolate, grey, maroon, white and Prada’s black total. For a dash of color, match them with a mustard blouse or a pair of glittering metal pumps. The approaching season brings with it a retro vibe through the iconic femme fatale of the fifties’ dress, the Diane Von Furstenberg seventies wide leg pants and Miu Miu baroque dress-up excess of the eighties. A lot is going on in the fashionista’s world and it’s easy to get lost in the labyrinth of trends, prints, colors and styles. So I’ll repeat it again, there is no going wrong with Dolce & Gabbana a modern, Italian classic, characterized by luxury and timelessness. Who needs more? ▲
Going back to the fall/winter desirable
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What one would give to avoid the waxing, the tweezing and the filling.
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ELITESTYLE
THENEW BROW it’s been around since the start of the 20th century, it has become popular amongst many women including: women on the go, mom’s, athletes, and even celebrities, BY Kimberly
Gonzalez
S
aving a little time and effort is something most women crave in their daily beautifying routines. What one would give to avoid the waxing, the tweezing and the filling; Sounds like a dream come true, doesn’t it? Well dream no more, as it can be done through the art of PERMANENT MAKEUP! Permanent makeup, also known as permanent tattooing, is a cosmetic technique where permanent pigmentation of the dermis is used to resemble the eyebrows. Though it’s been around since the start of the 20th century, it has become popular amongst many women including: women on the go, mom’s, athletes, and even celebrities, since it is very time consuming. No more worrying about the weekly trip to the salon, the pain of each hair being pulled by tweezers or the aftermath of the bumps and redness. Permanent tattooing is the new brow to have! ▲
WWW.ELITE210MAGAZINE.COM
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ELITELIFE Dr.Thomas Jeneby Cosmetic Surgeon
A
day in the shoes of Dr. Thomas Jeneby would take more than a mouthful to describe. Dr. Jeneby’s successful cosmetic surgery practice goes further than skin deep. His generous and humanitarian acts have touched the hearts of many people in San Antonio. Most importantly, Dr. Jeneby has helped transform the lives of many battered women who have suffered horrific physical disfigurements and injuries. These cosmetic surgery procedures are rendered at no charge by Dr. Jeneby through a partnership with Family Violence Preventative Services, Inc. (FVPS). Dr. Jeneby says, “It is my way to repay the San Antonio community and these unfortunate women who have been through so much”. He explains that he takes care of burned victims, stabbings, scalpings, and facial and nasal fractures. Although these services are pro-
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bono, he treats these patients as if they were his regular paying customers and is genuinely in tune to the fact that these victims of violence are understandably shy and very distrusting of people, so he treats them accordingly. This type of selfless act has been in practice in other parts of the U.S. for many years. Dr. Jeneby says that he initially became aware of these type of programs while watching the television program 60 Minutes, and it became something that sparked his interest and called out to him. Subsequently, he explains that he finally called Martha Pelaez, Director of FVPS, to become involved. It has now been a year and a half since he has begun his aid in restoring these women’s lives. Many victims of violence share their stories to these intervention and assistance agencies like FVPS whose sole mission is to break the cycle of violence and to strengthen families by providing families necessary
Dr.Jeneby’s successful cosmetic surgery practice goes further than skin deep. His generous and humanitarian acts have helped transform the lives of many battered women in San Antonio.
Pelaez confirms that without the constant reminders of physical abuse staring at them in the mirror; the healing process can manifest much more easily. This is what fuels her devotion to their mission and to the program. She shared that there is so much more involved in truly understanding the culprit of domestic violence. She mentions that the cycle of violence also exists for the perpetrators as well as the victims. Many children raised in a violent family have a strong tendency to become violent in the future. Consequently, they too grow up to be physically abused and/or abusive. Pelaez emphatically explains how imminent it is for perpetrators to break the cycle of violence too. And she adds that this is why both children and adults are offered an array of services to
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ELITELIFE
tools for self sufficiency through the delivery of emergency shelter, transitional housing, education, effective parenting education, and early intervention with children and youth. FVPS has been dedicated to helping victims of violence since 1977. Until recently, they have incorporated this invaluable program in order to help women recover from physical deformities and/or visible injuries sustained from domestic violence. This is a primordial step for victims to regain their self-esteem and having hope for some sense of normalcy. For example, a woman who has suffered a stab wound to the face and was left with a scar across her cheek is less likely to feel confident enough to apply for a job even if she’s qualified. It obviously affects a person’s social, personal and professional life. However, having the opportunity to remove those unattractive and often distracting scars is paramount to their transition to a better life. In fact, Dr. Jeneby recalls that he sees a mixture of reactions from those victims who have undergone one or multiple procedures. He states they are so happy and some even cry; but mostly very expressive about their life changing.
Martha Pelaez from ‘Family Violence Prevention Services, Inc.’ (FVPS).
diffuse and ultimately eliminate violent behavior in their lives. The FVPS has a broad spectrum of programs available to fulfill their mission. Dr.Thomas Jeneby is most certainly a key player in this mission. He is serving to help women from the physical damages of domestic violence. This visible improvement that he creates in a person’s life is remarkable. However, it is the gift of helping a person to regain their life that is priceless. In fact, so far he’s performed over $40,000 dollars worth of procedures; and when asked how long he plans to continue this charity, he said, “As long as they let me!” Dr. Jeneby has a lot of conviction for this cause and feels that other doctors need to become involved. He expressed that services from dentists, OBGYNS, general practitioners and pediatricians are also necessary in this program. He is undoubtedly making his mark and setting a grand example in hopes that, “this will be spread around”. ▲
There is so much more involved in truly understanding the culprit of domestic violence. The cycle of violence also exists for the perpetrators as well as the victims. - Martha Pelaez Dr.Thomas Jeneby
The Plastic and Cosmetic Center Of South Texas (210) 782-8269
Martha Pelaez
Family Violence Preventative Services, Inc. 1-800-799-SAFE
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ELITELIFE Ed Garza
Eric Castillo
Former Mayor of San Antonio
UIW Freshman Division 2 College Athlete
The Power of a Dream M y name is Eric Castillo and this is my story. When I was growing up as a kid, I was always surrounded by sports and always loved to play sports. My dad grew up here in San Antonio playing basketball, football and baseball at Lanier High School. He was fortunate to receive a scholarship to play football at the University of Missouri as a quarterback. His footsteps as an athlete were followed by me and my brother up until the high school level. In High School I played basketball for four years. I graduated in 2001 from John Marshall High School. After high School I took a different road then what I expected. At a young age, I started a landscape company from mowing residential yards, tree trimming, irrigation, concrete to full out landscape jobs. At 19 years old I had my first big commercial landscape contract with a local homebuilder. By 22, I was running two crews and was working with a few different homebuilders and real estate brokers. At 23 years old I got married to the mother of my two children, Eric and Ethan. At the same time I was privileged to obtain a full time job at a local real estate company that paid for my real estate classes and a position as an assistant property manager. While working for this company I was still able to run my successful landscaping company. With all this work and money that I was chasing I lost focus of the most important things in my life. I started drinking in excess, I said whatever came to my mind, and I was doing what I wanted to please me. That was my life an incredible banquet of all the things the world had to offer but just never getting fulfilled, never being satisfied, never being able to push away and say that’s enough and suddenly I was lost. Happy, but unfulfilled, something was
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BY ERIC CASTILLO
missing. The lifestyle I was trying to live at such a young age took a toll on my family and me. The three things that I really knew in life, my wife and my two sons were taken away from me at the same time. So I had to find something that made me feel comfortable. I went down a path of destruction; I lost my job and my landscaping company that I built up in 6 years over night. It wasn’t because of nobody else but because the way I was living, the choices I was making and everything in my life up until this point I could do on my own. I didn’t need help from anyone but the drinking I couldn’t stop. I wanted more and more. I had an accident one night that almost took my life. I remember waking up the next day in a hospital with a cast on my right hand. The doctors told me I would never be able to use my hand again. My identity was gone. As an entrepreneur, I felt like a rug just got yanked out from underneath me. I think God put a road block in my life; he had removed all my distractions. Eventually I was released from the hospital and I started to go to the gym to rehab my hand. It started with baby steps. Things got harder after that, the hand started to get better. It was not an overnight transformation but slowly things started to change in my life. I understood I was a screw up. I took my talents and abilities that God had given me and I spit on them. I took for granted the body that was given to me. I slowly started to evolve into the man I am today, 6 weeks out of the hospital I ran my first 5k. The feeling I got from finishing that first run became an instant inspiration to me and I wanted more of that. The path that I fell off of after high school was placed right back in my life and that was fitness. Fitness became my road to recovery spiritually, mentally and physically. I
o
wanted to show people that I could overcome this injury and addiction. I started working for a small gym doing sales. A few months at the gym, I was asked to teach personal training classes. I still remember my first client, a 15 year old overweight boy. I couldn’t believe his mom was about to pay me to try to change this little boys body health and life. I was optimistic of what I could do. Was I changed? I asked myself, or is this path that I was meant to be on. I ended up building a client base of 20 clients until one day I moved weights and machines into a friends garage where we made a homemade gym that we called a training studio. I trained out of the garage for six months until I saved up enough money and built up a total of 40 clients where then I moved into a shopping center and now had my own commercial studio. I trained out of my studio for two years. I still remember sitting in the studio with some close friends and talking about adversity, life, dreams and goals. My dream and goal was to play college football. It was a dream that seemed so far because I never played high school football. In November of 2010 at 27 years old I closed my gym down to chase the dream I envisioned for two years. I was willing to lose it all for an attempt to chase this dream. I hired a personal trainer by the name of Nathaniel Dilworth who had a background with track athletes. We trained for speed 3 days a week as I found a little time to train a few clients of mine at local high school football fields to keep my dream alive financially. I remember applying at The University of Incarnate Word in December of 2010. A few days after I applied, I met a man by the name of Ed Garza, he was a former Mayor of San Antonio. I contacted him and we chatted about life, goals and dreams. A few days later, I drove to UIW to check on my application status and I still remem-
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ber the admissions lady closing the door behind her. I knew it wasn’t good news, “You have not been accepted to UIW,” she said. My heart dropped and when I left I was in tears of confusion. Later that night Mr. Garza and I wrote an appeal letter. The next day at 9 a.m., I got a call from admissions saying I was accepted into the spring semester at UIW. The feeling after I hung up with her is a feeling I will never forget, I was given a second chance in life and a chance to chase my dream. I went to talk to the coach immediately and was able to walk-on and start spring training with the UIW Cardinals where I had an opportunity to play in their annual spring game. I was able to experience the 2011 UIW Football Training Camp where I got an opportunity to bond with the other players strengthening our UIW Football Family. My first semester at UIW I completed my course work with a 3.27 GPA and I plan on working on raising it to a 3.5 GPA to make the Dean’s list in the fall semester. I look forward to the day that I run out on the field with my UIW teammates therefore fulfilling my ultimate dream. The players and coaches at UIW keep me grounded and inspired. I’m surrounded by a great group of guys, high school all star athletes and college transfers. I am playing a sport I never played in high school and I take every day as an opportunity to learn the game and the position by a great group of teammates and coaching staff at UIW. Every time I step on the field I work hard. I know I may not be a starter or an all star football player, but I do know I give it all I got to help and inspire others around me. I have learned values like accountability, determination and team. People always ask me, “What made you want to play a sport at a college level you never played before at 28 years old?” The only answer I have for them is, “I do it for my sons Eric and Ethan. I figured if they
couldn’t be a part of my life now I would do something in honor of them and that just happened to be the path of football at UIW.” Being on the team at UIW fills the hole in my heart that I needed. Sometimes a man must follow a dream even if it seems impossible, sometimes courage must overcome doubt, determination must overcome adversity and in the moment of truth, inner strength must be found. Every great story begins with a dream, every great dream can only be told through a story. TO BE CONTINUED … ▲
I am a 28 yr old freshman division 2 college athlete today and I am living a dream through a powerful testimony.
Contact Info:
ERIC CASTILLO Facebook SEARCH: pinnacle.fitness@yahoo.com Special thanks to: God, Eric Brennan Castillo, Ethan Sebastian Castillo, My parents Al Castillo Sr and Lynda Castillo, My brother Albert Castillo Jr, Ed Garza, Marko Torres, Jonathan Ramos, Nathaniel Dilworth, Alex Torres, Herman Torres, Dr. Louis Agnese and Felix Salinas for helping share this story.►
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Sometimes a man must follow a dream even if it seems impossible, sometimes courage must overcome doubt, determination must overcome adversity and in the moment of truth inner strength must be found. Every great story begins with a dream every great dream can only be told through a story.”
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ELITECUISINE
M
exico is a country not only known for its beautiful beaches and rolling mountains it is also a country known for its traditions and it is of no surprise that it is the same with its food.
The Mexican cuisine goes as far back as the 19th century. It originated in the regions of South America and Central America and is derived from South American and Spanish foods. A typical Mexican meal begins with a soup course, known as sopa aguada followed by rice or pasta known as sopa seca.
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However, before we enjoy our favorite Mexican dishes such as Enchiladas, Pozole, Chiles Rellenos or even Huevos Rancheros, for breakfast, let us remember what goes into preparing that dish. Yes, spices and herbs. Just as Italian food is not Italian without its sauces and cheeses- Mexican food is not traditional without its common spices. The history of Mexican food Ingredients dates back to 1519. The most frequently used herbs and spices in Mexican cuisine are chilli powder, oregano, cilantro, epazote, cinnamon, and cocoa. Chipotle, a smoke-dried jalapeño chilli, is also common in Mexican dishes. Mexican food ingredients that came from the Aztecs include beans, corn, and squash. Corn is a key ingredient in Mexican food and perhaps the most important. Corn is used in the preparation of tortillas. Preparation is key element in giving authentic Mexican food its taste. And along with preparation come the traditional Mexican pots, pans and utensils. Commonly used Mexican pots are Ollas. They are deep clay cooking pots. A Comal is a big round griddle, which can be made of cast iron, aluminum, or clay and it is used to roast chilies and warm tortillas. A Cazuela is a big clay
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Now don’t think that all of Mexico has the same food. Mexican food is not like the traditional American food where everywhere you go there are hot dogs and burgers or fries and nuggets. Mexican food varies by region and it is determined by the climate and what food is produced in that area. The north of Mexico is known for its beef, goat and ostrich production. In theYucatan, a unique natural sweetness exists in the food. On the contrary the Oaxacan region is known for its savory and spicy tamales and moles. The mountainous regions of the West are known for birria (goat in a spicy tomatobased sauce). Central Mexico’s cuisine is largely influenced by the rest of the country, but has unique and tasty dishes such as pozole, menudo barbacoa and carnitas. In small villages, there are also more exotic dishes, cooked in the Aztec or Mayan style with ingredients ranging from iguana to rattlesnake, ant eggs, and other kinds of insects. So the next time you are sitting in your favorite Mexican restaurant or in your abuelitas (grandmas) kitchen savoring your food remember all the history and tradition that lies within that blend of ingredients and don’t forget to say Delicioso! ▲
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A traditional Mexican meal consists of beans, rice, fresh tortillas and fresh vegetables. Its’ main dish includes pork, chicken or beef, which is served with a side of beans.
dish and a tortillero is a Mexican tortilla press made traditionally from wood or cast iron. Many people claim that it is these particular pots and utensils that give Mexican food its taste.
ELITELIFE
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ELITECUISINE
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wo hour waits. Colorful, contemporary surroundings. Loud and fun atmosphere. These are all trademarks of the Rosario’s brand that have made this landmark restaurant so popular with locals and tourists alike. For nearly two decades, Rosario’s Mexican Café y Cantina has served as the anchor business for the historic Southtown-King William area in San Antonio, Texas.
Lisa had high expectations for the café but knew she was in for a few challenges. The award-winning restaurant, owned and operated by local entrepreneur Lisa Wong, combines traditional south-of-the-border dishes with authentic house specialties, all prepared with a contemporary twist. Menu favorites include Rosario’s famous shrimp nachos, fish tacos, Pollo a la Maria, Angelica’s Ceviche Fina, parrillas and specialty margaritas. Lisa’s restaurant career began at 18 when she took her $7,000 college money and opened Lisa’s Mexican Restaurant on the city’s West Side in 1981 to instant success. In 1992, she was ready to spread her wings with a new venture when she stumbled upon Rosario’s, a forgotten neighborhood gem. Lisa had high expectations for the café but knew she was in for a few challenges. At the time, there were very few businesses on South Alamo Street, which limited foot traffic. Lisa recalls the area had the feel of an abandoned ghost town.
Lisa Wong Owner Rosarios Mexican Cafe & Cantina
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Rosario’s Bread Pudding
Rosario’s Enchiladas Mexicanas
Rosario’s Chocolate Flan
“Foot traffic has increased tremendously for this part of town,” she says, “which is helping a lot of businesses flourish in the area.”
has 30 years of experience in the food service industry and is the founder of a number of successful restaurant concepts in San Antonio including two at the San Antonio International Airport. In 2010, she opened a new Mexican lounge bar concept in Terminal B called R Sala: A Bebida Botana Bar and renovated the Rosario’s location.
The restaurant has generated extensive media coverage in national, regional and local publications, including the New York Times, Washington Post, Southern Living, Bon Appétit, Gourmet, Hispanic Magazine, Texas Monthly, and San Antonio Express-News, to name a few.
Lisa remained optimistic but never imagined the success Rosario’s enjoys today. The restaurant has been at its present location for over 10 years and recently underwent a remodel with award-winning designer Jill Giles transforming the space into a sophisticated feel while retaining its Mexican quirkiness.
Lisa remained optimistic but never imagined the success Rosario’s enjoys today. Born and raised in San Antonio, Lisa
Contact Us Rosario’s Mexican Café y Cantina 910 South Alamo San Antonio, Texas 78205 210/223-1806 www.rosariosSA.com
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Year after year, local food critics and guests give their nod to Rosario’s winning recipes. The restaurant consistently is voted “Best Mexican Restaurant” in San Antonio in the annual Readers’ and Critics’ Choice Awards sponsored by the San Antonio Express-News. Rosario’s took top honors again this year for “Best Mexican Restaurant,” “Best Salsa,” “Best Neighborhood Restaurant/Downtown-Southtown” and Critics’ Choice for “Best Restaurant to Take Out-of-Town Guests.” “Of course, it’s not just the food that makes Rosario’s so popular. There’s a buzz about the restaurant that also comes from good music, good service, good drinks, good art and its general good vibe,” writes food editor Karen Haram about Rosario’s winning streak.
“Of course, it’s not just the food that makes Rosario’s so popular. There’s a buzz about the restaurant that also comes from good music, good service, good drinks, good art and its general good vibe,” writes food editor Karen Haram about Rosario’s winning streak. Through Lisa’s extensive community involvement, the restaurant has raised thousands of dollars for various local causes, including a $10,000 donation to the Children’s Shelter as part of its 10th anniversary celebration in 2002 and $25,000 for Katrina relief efforts in its inaugural ComidAid in 2005. ▲
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ELITEENTERTAIN
BY Vic
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Hernandez
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ife in Singles is a San Antonio-based sitcom about a group of twenty-something year olds and their experiences in dating while working entry-level jobs. “The show tackles topics like dating, work, and life in general from a comedic angle. It’s like a cross between Seinfeld, Sex and the City, and Friends, yet it all takes place here in San Antonio,” said Victor Hernandez, producer, writer, and director of Life in Singles and owner of Hybryd Image Productions. “I wanted to capture that quarter-life crisis age where you’re still single, still dating and working low-level positions.” Filming for the pilot episode has already begun and is scheduled to be completed by the end of June with post-production projected to finish by early July. Members of the production team include Paul Rhodis and Andrew Villalobos from Grandpa Punch Productions, Ross Lundquist from Daedelus Productions, and Roxanna Salas, Project Manager and Account Coordinator from Aguillon & Associates, Inc. “San Antonio has a lot to offer this demographic and I’m grateful to have so much support from the community to make this vision a reality,” said Hernandez. Casting for the sitcom has been provided by Rome Talent’s Annette Schaefer and includes a lively group of five main characters: Vanessa Hilario Gallegos playing Arianna Rodriguez, Karen Ellis playing Melinda Brokaw, Travis Cozby Valliant playing Kenny Gunner, Andreas Casso playing B.J. Crenshaw, and Patty Corres playing Cassandra Epstein.
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othing says summer more than a blanket on the ground, the wind in your hair and the soothing sounds of Jazz music playing in the background. Major cities like New York, Chicago and Los Angeles are known for their Jazz events and festivals - but did you know that right here in the heart of Texas you too can experience the relaxing yet upbeat sounds of Jazz? Every summer San Antonio and some of its surrounding cities are hosts to unforgettable performances by some of today’s top Jazz artists as well as local and upcoming talented artists. For those of you that are looking for an event that will help you wind down the summer months, Jazz SALive is where you want to be. This September 24th and 25th you can head over to Travis Park, located in San Antonio Texas, for a free two-day festival featuring national, regional and local musicians. This event is sponsored by the San Antonio Parks Foundation and
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the City of San Antonio. The fun begins at noon on both days and ends at 11pm on Saturday and 10pm on Sunday. Along with the event in the park there are four other events that take place during the festival weekend that commemorate Jazz. They are the Starlight Gala, Children’s Symposium, Champagne Brunch and the Jam Session. The Starlight Salute to Jazz’s Alive Gala, is a dinner and dancing event featuring the tunes of Judi De Leon. Judi De Leon is a South Texas native who has dedicated her life to Gospel, Tejano and now Jazz performances. She has been nominated for a Grammy in the RandB Division. This Gala and auction will be held Friday, September 23, 2011 at the St. Anthony Hotel, 300 E. Travis. Tickets for the dance floor level are $150 per person or $1,500 for a table for 10. The reception begins at 6:30 p.m. and is followed by dinner and dancing at 7:15 p.m. For ticket information call 210-212-8423.
Calling all children! The Annual Children’s Symposium will take place this year on Saturday September 24th from 10am to 11:30am. If you have ever wanted your child to learn about some of the instruments used in Jazz performances this is the event for you. The event is free for children but they must be registered by 9:30am. Children will be exposed to four areas of music, Woodwinds, High Brass, Vocals, and Percussion. How do Some Belgian Waffles, Breakfast Potatoes, Roasted Prime Rib and Chicken Picata sound? If these dishes sound of interest to you make reservations now to attend the Champagne Brunch. Hosted by Q 101.9 David Munoz, this event will take place Sunday September 25 from 10:30am to 1pm at the St Anthony hotel. Tickets are 40.00 per person and 35.00 for members of the park. This will be a live broadcasted ra-
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dio event. For more information or reservations you can call 210-212-8423. Jazz performers for this event have yet to be announced. Now maybe you are more of a night owl? If so, then Jazz SALive After Dark is for you! Come on out to The Peacock Alley at the St Anthony Hotel for Jam Session 2011, hosted by Henry Brun and Latin Playerz. This event is brought to you by the Rio San Antonio Cruises and will take place both Saturday and Sunday night from11pm to 2am. Jazz’s Alive After Dark is an impromptu session for local, regional, and national artists. This event is free but if you would like to reserve a table for 4 on both nights you can do so by calling 210- 212-8423. Prices for the tables are $150 or $140 for Members of the Park. So whether you want to explore the Jazz industry, catch up on old time favorites or are simply looking for a relaxing yet fun filled event with great performers the place to be this September is at the Jazz SALive. ▲
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Along with the event in the park there are four other events that take place during the festival weekend that commemorate Jazz. They are the Starlight Gala, Children’s Symposium, Champagne Brunch and the Jam Session.
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