APRIL 2016
the reyes family and their many decades with the fiesta san antonio commission
CONTENTS THE DOMINION MAGAZINE | THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE DOMINION HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION
APRIL 2016
The Reyes family and their many decades with the Fiesta San Antonio Commission
WELCOME 14
community interest 48 The History of Fiesta
THE CLUB
CALENDAR 16 CLUB HAPPENINGS 18 HOA HAPPENINGS 22
FROM THE HOA 26
tennis 50 student profile 54
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This issue we meet the Hernandez brothers
Board of directors 58
charity 28
Meet Carla Ruiz
SLEW Wellness Center
home tour 60
resident profile 30
The Ernst family
Chad Harthan
54 32
club dining 32
The 21st Annual Taste of The Dominion
staff profile 34
travel 66
Keep calm and go to London
pet of the month 68 area events 70
This issue we talk with Assistant Project Manager and Senior Shift Supervisor, Capt. Derek G. Sinclair
golf 46
COVER 38
good reads 72
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Phil Klay, Redeployment
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APRIL 2016 | VOLUME 3 ISSUE 4
PUBLISHED By SMV Texas Design Group, LLC 930 E. Blanco, Ste. 200, Boerne, TX 78006 210-507-5250
Welcome TO
the Dominion Magazine Dear Reader,
Welcome to spring! It seems like we all get more active as the days get longer and warmer. And, the HOA gets even more active, too. What a month we have in store! The wonderful Food Truck event the neighborhood enjoyed last month was just the beginning of the fun our Neighborhood Outreach Committee (NOC) has organized. Please note the details of the others in our calendar section, including the very popular “Mariachi Run” on April 9, and our own community’s celebration of Fiesta on April 10, jointly hosted by the Dominion Country Club and the NOC. The following week, the NOC welcomes our new residents at a party at the Club. I especially would like to encourage you to join us on Wednesday, April 13, at 7:00PM, for our Dominion Homeowner’s Association Annual Meeting. The meeting takes place at The Dominion Country Club and is a perfect way for you to learn more about and be more involved in our community. At the meeting you will hear about the state of the association, hearing brief reports about security, finances, outreach, development, landscaping, and architectural controls. Also, at this meeting, you will have a chance to cast your votes for the positions coming open on the Board of Directors. There are three positions available. The candidates’ resumes were sent by mail along with your ballots. More detail was sent by mail along with your ballots. There will be an opportunity to ask questions of the current board members, committee heads, and staff. It is a very good venue for those of us who volunteer and work at the HOA to hear your thoughts about our community. I look forward to seeing you at the annual meeting as well as our social events this month!
SMV TEXAS DESIGN GROUP, LLC CEO/PRESIDENT Benjamin D. Schooley ben@smvtexas.com OPERATIONS MANAGER Michelle Hans michelle@smvtexas.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR Benjamin Weber ben.weber@smvtexas.com ASSISTANT CREATIVE DIRECTOR Kayla Davisson kayla@smvtexas.com
THE DOMINION HOA OFFICE 20 Dominion Drive San Antonio, Texas 78257 (210) 698-1232 | www.dominionhoa.com
The Dominion Magazine is published by Schooley Media Ventures in Boerne, TX. The Dominion Magazine and Schooley Media Ventures are not responsible for any inaccuracies, erroneous
THE DOMINION | MARCH 2016
Y 2016 N | FEBRUAR
THE DOMINIO
Y 2016 FEBRUAR
MARCH 2016
DOMINION
OF THE DOMINION HOMEOWNERS
ION OF THE
PUBLICAT
THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION
THE OFFICIAL ION
ASSOCIATION
ERS ASSOCIAT HOMEOWN
INION ON THE DOM ERS ASSOCIATI
THE DOMINION HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION
HOMEOWN
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information, or typographical errors contained in this publication submitted by advertisers. Opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect the opinions of
A PUBLICATION OF: ATION OF:
A PUBLIC
Jeff Lewis, Chairman Dominion Homeowners Association
APRIL 2016
FOr Advertising opportunities call 210-507-5250
The Dominion and/or Schooley Media Ventures. Copyright 2014 Schooley Media Ventures, 930 E. Blanco, Ste. 200, Boerne, TX 78006
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Women’s Forum Monthly Luncheon 11:30 a.m. Join the Forum and join the fun. This month the ladies will enjoy some fun boutique shopping, cocktails, a delicious lunch, and be entertained by internationally known pianist, Don Irwin. Not to be missed! $19.50/pp, reservations RSVP 210-6983364.
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Friday Night Lights Happy Hour Outdoors! 5:00 p.m. -8:00 p.m. Another fun happy hour outdoors! If you haven’t yet joined us, don’t miss out! Lots of fun in store! Lawn games, happy hour priced drinks, absolutely awesome complimentary hors d’oeuvres and fun with your fellowMembers!
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Women’s Forum Annual Gala - Diamonds & Pearls 7:00 p.m. A spectacular night is in store with champagne and passed hors d’oeuvres, premium open bar all evening, choice of three amazing entrees, and the fabulous “Oh So Good” band. Please reply now to 210-6983364 to save your space.
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Supper Club Anniversary Party 6:00 p.m. -9:00 p.m. Don’t miss the celebration! 17 years and still going strong! $25.95 per person Please RSVP to 210-698-3364
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Birthday Happy Hour 6:00 p.m. -8:00 p.m. Celebrate our Birthday Babies with complimentary hors d’oeuvres, Happy Hour priced cocktails & a cake large enough to share!
Every Tuesday
Every Wednesday
Every Thursday
Every Friday
Every saturday
Women’s FUN Tennis Tuesdays! 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Open to all 2.5 - 3.0 level ladies. Limit 10.
Ladies Bible Study 12:30 p.m.– 2:00 p.m. The ladies get together every Wednesday in the Wine Room. Stop by this week!
Men’s Bible Study 7:30 a.m. – 8:30 a.m. This group meets every Thursday in the Piano Lounge. Stop by this week!
Women’s FUN Tennis Friday! 9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Women’s FUN Tennis Friday!
Tennis- Saturday Morning Workout 9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. All levels, men & women. Guaranteed to hit a thousand balls. Loud music, lots of fun!
Pasta Night in the Grille 6:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m. Enjoy delicious Italian favorites, gourmet and cooked to order. Children 11 and under dine complimentary from the pasta bar. $14.95 Adults Please RSVP to 210698-3364
tennis 105 night 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Open to all levels, men & women. Limit 10. Email Coach Dave: dknaszak@thedominion.com or call the tennis shop to sign up. 210.698.2288
The Dominion Rotary Club 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. This international service group meets at The Dominion every Tuesday Tuesday Night 105 7:00 p.m. -8:30 p.m. red ball clinic 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Beginner Kids Tennis Clinic. Open to all 4 - 7 year olds. Burger Night in the Grille 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Delicious, cooked to order and just $5! Treat the family, invite friends! RSVP to 210698-3364
Friday Night Happy Hour 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Kick off the weekend with complimentary hors d’oeuvres and happy hour priced cocktails with your fellow Dominion Members and Guests! Prime Rib Night in the Grille 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Delicious and bountiful - includes baked potato, hearth rolls and a crisp garden salad. $23.95 per person RSVP to 210-698-3364
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THE
DOMINION CountryClub Happenings
women’s forum luncheon The wonderful March Women’s Forum luncheon began with a mini-bazaar - great shopping! After a delicious lunch, the ladies were entertained by an exciting ballroom dancing exhibition, and even ended the day with some line dancing! 18
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Friday Night Lights Happy Hour Another very successful party on the driving range with over 140 Members attending! Great music and food, as well as mini-tennis, lawn games, and target golf were fun, but visiting, laughing, and dancing with fellow Members was the best part!
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b oa r d of gov e r n or s a p p r e c i at i on The Dominion Board of Governors and their spouses attended the annual Board Appreciation Dinner to thank those who have served their terms, as well as those who will remain on the 2016 Board. Your Dominion Board Members are Jimmy LeDoux, Roberto Alvarez, Ed Devane, Lora Watts, Bob Gutermuth, Lyn Hicks, Traci Lewis, Lori Harper, Sid Hodges, Diane Salek, and Jeff Lewis. These Club Members volunteer their time and dedication to making the Club better, speaking on their fellow Members’ behalf, and upholding the integrity of Club policies. Please let them know how much they are appreciated!
my b i g fat gr e e k wedding supper club Over 75 of your fellown Members enjoyed amazing Greek cuisine, lovely Greek music, and the movie playing in the background. Supper Club is open to all Members as an avenue to meet fellow Members in a casual and relaxed setting, while enjoying a great party! If you would like to assist the folks on the Supper Club Committee, email Kelly at Kelly@the-dominion. 20
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HOA Happenings food truck night The Dominion had its first Food Truck Night on March 19th and it was a huge success!! We are thankful the weather cooperated and many residents dined with us at Duxbury Park. There was live music, good food, kids running around having fun and laughter all around. We look forward to organizing another food truck event very soon!
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There has never been a better time to join The Dominion Country Club!
The Dominion Country Club is your oasis and home away from home. The Club offers a worldclass 18-hole Bill Johnston signature golf course with full practice facilities, an incredible tennis program, swim center, fitness and spa in the locker-rooms, and Clubhouse dining with fun filled social activities. There is something for everyone here at The Dominion Country Club! Please contact Aleya Davis in the Membership Office for more information at 210.698.4820 or Membership@The-Dominion.com
By rob mcdaniel, general manager of the dhoa
This time of year brings many changes for the HOA and The Dominion. The more obvious changes are the warmer temperatures, greener lawns, the sprouting of more weeds, and the dropping of leaves and more leaves. We ask that you start increasing frequency in landscape maintenance and be sure that pre-emergent weed applications are addressing weed issues in your lawn. If your lawn is predominantly weeds, please consult your landscape contractor to begin plans to replace your turf. This will enhance the overall look of your property and increase property values. Other changes happening this spring are the elections of new members to the HOA Board of Directors. The following are names of the 2016 candidates running for the three open Board positions: Jane Marie Anderholt, Gary Cram, Jim Gordon, Jeffrey Lewis, Joe Raetzer, and Sandy Souchon. We hope you will attend the Annual Meeting being held on Wednesday, April 13 at 7:00 p.m. at The Dominion Country Club.
A presentation will be given with updates on the current state of the HOA and a recap from the various HOA committees. A slideshow of photos from the last year of social events will be shown as well. If you’re not able to attend the Annual Meeting, please submit your proxy or absentee ballot to the HOA office by April 8th. Feel free to contact the HOA office with any questions about the Annual Meeting, the candidates, or the election process.
rob mcdaniel General Manager of the HOA
committee updates The Neighborhood Outreach Committee (NOC) We hope you attended and enjoyed the first Food Truck Night last month! We hope to organize another very soon! April is very busy for The Dominion. We have several options for residents to come out, have some fun, and meet their neighbors at various social events. The month kicks off with the Mariachi Dash 5k/10k on Saturday, April 9 followed up with our annual Fiesta party on Sunday, April 10! You won’t want to miss either of these fun events. Don’t forget about the HOA Annual Meeting on Wednesday, April 13 at The Dominion Country Club. You’ll have an opportunity to hear many updates on the status of the HOA as well as cast your vote for the newest members of the Board of Directors. 26
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The Finance Committee recently completed the annual audit and received audited financial statements. The accounting firm Armstrong, Vaughan & Associates performed the audit and rendered their opinion that the financial statements are presented fairly, in all material respects, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted. The Dominion HOA is privileged to have the following members serve on the Finance Committee: Sandy Souchon, Board Treasurer, David Ray, Kenneth Kolb, Mike McCray, David Meads. Every month they spend hours reviewing the financial statements, budgets, and projections prepared by management. They make judgments and recommendations based on knowledge
about past and current events and assumptions about future events. They suggest opportunities to improve the operations of the HOA. Their fiduciary duties protect the monetary and physical assets of the association as well as maintain and enhance property values today and for the future. Their knowledge and experience are invaluable to the residents in The Dominion. The Dominion HOA controller, Lisa Fratangelo, is also fortunate these individuals take time away from their families to mentor her and share their knowledge.
UPCOMING HOA EVENTS Landscape Committee Meeting Thursday, April 7 at 8:00 a.m.
The Development Committee continues to work with Dominion Hills in reviewing plans to build out this neighborhood. For Dominion Hills and other neighborhoods, the Development Committee reviews such things as road layouts and construction specifications, restrictive covenants, walls/fences and entry monuments and other infrastructure. The Development Committee recently met with representatives from TxDot to receive an update on the road project along IH-10, and an update of this project was provided in last month’s magazine. The committee also met with representatives from the new Walmart at Boerne Stage Road to receive an update on the new store. Going forward, there are still a few parcels of land yet to be developed on the north and south end of The Dominion. The Development Committee is in contact with the owners of these parcels and has begun the review process for developing these parcels. The HOA will provide updates on new development as information becomes available.
neighborhood outreach Committee Meeting
The Security Committee recommends you list Dominion Security as the first number to contact on your home alarm monitoring contact list. With our 24/7 SAPD coverage, we respond much quicker to house alarms and you won’t receive a bill from SAPD for any false alarms. The main Security number is (210) 6980041. As a general courtesy reminder, lock your doors on your vehicles and homes, and do not leave valuables in your vehicle.
Finance Committee Meeting
Landscape Committee - Spring is upon us. Winter cutbacks are occurring in the common areas throughout the community and if you haven’t noticed, the oak trees are dropping their leaves. The turf in the common areas will also be revitalized in the next few weeks with aeration and top dressing. Architectural Control Committee (ACC) Interested in future projects within the community, and have a keen eye for architecture and design? The Architectural Control Committee would like to invite attentive home owners throughout the community to apply and attend our weekly meetings, where committee members review all new homes and exterior modifications. The ACC’s two main purposes are to preserve a harmonious design for the neighborhood in compliance with recorded Covenants, and to protect the value of the property. We’re in need of home owners to attend, preferably no more than two meetings a month, and review construction applications, discussing with fellow homeowners and builders to objectively determine that new projects comply with The Dominion design standards. If you’re interested in volunteering, please contact Kellye Fralinger, ACC Administrator at the HOA Office to submit committee application.
Tuesday, April 12 at 8:30 a.m.
development committee meeting Wednesday, April 13 at 7:30 a.m.
hoa annual meeting of the membership (election of new board) Wednesday, April 13 at 7:00 p.m.
board of directors meeting (election of officers) Thursday, April 14 at 4:00 p.m.
security committee meeting Tuesday, April 19 at 9:00 a.m.
Thursday, April 21 at 1:00 p.m.
Architectural Control Committee Meetings Thursday, April 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th at 4:30 p.m.
Mariachi Dash 5k/10k Run/Walk and Kids’ ½ mile Fun Run Begins near HOA office at entrance to Dominion Hills Saturday, April 9 starting at 8:00 a.m. Register at www.mariachidash.com Residents race free, contact HOA office for race code Come out and cheer on the racers if you’re not participating!
Fiesta Party Pecan Grove Sunday, April 10 from 5:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. Bring your kids to The Dominion’s annual kick off to Fiesta! Food, drinks, music, and lots of fun for everyone!
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slew WELlness center by Olga Young, SLEW Founder and Executive Director
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hen the gentle doorbell chimes at SLEW Wellness Center, the smiling and welcoming staff is ready to provide emotional and physical support for the client who has just arrived. Support Lending for Emotional Well-Being (SLEW), a non-profit agency, offers free services to uninsured, under-insured, and low-income women recovering from cancer treatments. SLEW was founded in 2003 as an all-volunteer agency by its executive director, who while traveling through her journey with cancer discovered disparities for low-income women. SLEW now serves over 500 patients annually, providing over 9,000 services for underserved women. This all-inclusive agency is the only one of its kind in Bexar County, and operates as an integrative cancer care prevention and survivorship agency. SLEW is a holistic program that delivers essential services that improve a woman’s emotional well-being, altered body image, self-esteem, physical pain, and mobility limitations while empowering them with knowledge and skills to take charge of their healing and long-term survival. SLEW offers the most comprehensive program for cancer aftercare in Bexar County SLEW’s services include wigs, mastectomy bras and prosthetic fittings, massage therapy, lymphatic drainage therapy, psychotherapy, case management, patient navigation, nutritional counseling, and transportation. What makes this program so unique is that all services are offered at no cost to our clients, and all under one roof. The agency was recognized in 2011, 2012, and 2013 by the National Cancer Institute, in collaboration with UT Health Science Center’s Institute for Health Promotions Research (IHPR), as a model survivorship program. At a recent small group meeting, facilitated by psychotherapist Ruby Torres, client Maria C. told the group she was scared. Her cancer had returned and she was scheduled for a port placement the next day. Maria wasn’t sure she could handle the stress again. Another client, Dominique, reached out and held Maria’s hand. “It’s ok, we’re here, SLEW is here, [and] God is with you. You’ll be OK.” It was words Maria needed to hear. Patient Navigator, Kathy Belmonte, accompanied Maria to her chemotherapy treatment, offering emotional support, and helping Maria understand what was happening. “I have no family to lean on for support,” said Gloria R. “I had gone through six surgeries and was feeling angry! But the women at SLEW kept me going! I am surrounded by people who I know really care about me.” This year, plans are well underway to move to a new, larger facility thanks in large part to a grant from Impact San Antonio. Our plan is to add an exercise program. Studies show that exercise can help prevent some forms of cancer, and can help a current cancer patient improve their overall health and outcome. “I felt like I had no purpose in life. I was losing my hair, I felt ugly, and I 28
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asked myself, ‘Why is God doing this to me? I wanted to die, and I tried to kill myself.” But Amanda prayed and her doctor recommended SLEW Wellness Center. “This place saved my life. At SLEW, they know what I’m going through. The therapists here told me I was beautiful, and I was here for a reason.” Amanda now feels she has a purpose, and hope. To learn more about SLEW Wellness Center, visit their website at www.slewwellness.org, or contact Helene DePeralta, Dominion resident and SLEW board member.
Friday, June 10, 2016 noon to 1 p.m. doors open at 11 a.m. Oak hills country club 5403 Fredericksburg road
What urged you to get involved with LLS ? I am a leukemia survivor. When I was 8 months old I was diagnosed with (ALL) Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Since I was under one year of age when diagnosed, my chances for survival were only 30%. I underwent two years of intense chemotherapy and have been in remission ever since. I have become involved so no other kid has to go through what I went through as a baby. I have a website that talks about my cancer journey, www. chadharthan.com. How were you chosen as a candidate? I have done a lot of volunteering for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society as an ambassador over the years. This year I decided that before I left for college next year, I wanted to make a big impact to help find a cure for blood cancers as well as other cancers. By gaining support from my family, friends, and neighbors, I hope to not only win the title of Man of the Year, but to make a real difference in the lives of blood cancer patients everywhere. I hope to raise at least $250,000 in the 10week fundraising campaign that ends June 10. How do you feel about being a candidate at your age? Stepping up for the Man of the Year campaign is a huge challenge at my age. I am competing against 15 other men in the San Antonio area to raise the most money. Many of them are my dad’s age or older! I really need the community to rally behind me and support my efforts and my campaign. Please visit my fundraising page at www.mwoy.org/pages/sctx/sat16/charthan. What do you enjoy doing in my free time? I enjoy playing soccer. This year I was on the Varsity soccer team at TMI. I’m also in the TMI band and on the Robotics team. I enjoy learning how to develop my own Apple Apps, too. What do you like about The Dominion? I like living in The Dominion because so many of my friends live here, too. I also enjoy my two minute commute to school! 30
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by Kelly Thompson, Member Relations Director, The Dominion Country Club
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wenty-one years and better than ever! If you are a long-time club member, or even brand new to The Dominion, chances are you have heard of, and more than likely, attended The Taste! Set outside amidst the magnificent oak trees on the terrace overlooking The Dominion’s storied golf course, you can’t help loving the location. The Taste of The Dominion wins right there! But there is so much more. Food and drink abound at this member favorite event that has grown from humble beginnings to include over 15 of San Antonio’s finest and best-loved restaurants, with about 400 of your closest Dominion friends and their guests attending, ready for a great time. Over the years we have seen tasty delights presented by everything from food trucks, fun hole in the wall finds, and upscale
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establishments, to even a fire truck. Obviously, the real appeal is the delicious food, but the fun is also in the atmosphere - music, friends, and merriment. The Taste can’t be beat for a good time! Each carefully selected restaurant offers their top three signature dishes for your enjoyment, and your tickets! Each attendee is given four tickets which are used to “vote” on the restaurants. First, second, and third places are awarded, and the restaurants are given the opportunity to vie for your tickets, not only through their delicious culinary offerings, but also through enticements such as coupons, flyers, discounts to their restaurant, and the beautiful presentation of their tables. The Taste of The Dominion is not only a fun event, it is a charitable one as well. For several years the San Antonio Food Bank has been the very worthy charity participating in The Taste. The
Food Bank is allotted a small number of tickets to sell, but they also benefit from the proceeds of their dynamic silent auction. Past silent auctions have included items such as Spurs jerseys and signed basketballs, member donated art, hotel stays, closet organizing services, and many more interesting and exciting items. These donations help advance the cause of the Food Bank in our community. Friendly competition isn’t for the restaurants only! In the past, Pastry Chef Judy and I have taken on the Food Bank’s catering division, Community Kitchen, for two dessert throw-down competitions, judged by club members. The Club and the Food Bank are currently tied; it might be time for another competition! This years current restaurant line-up includes Fralo’s Art of Pizza, Kirby’s Steakhouse, Mash’d at the Rim, Silo Terrace Oyster Bar, Bob’s Steak and Chop, The Grey Moss Inn, and several others you all will greatly enjoy! The Taste is fun, the food is terrific, the atmosphere is beautiful, and it all comes together thanks to the generosity of the supporting restaurants who donate their product, time, and labor to this event. They participate to support the San Antonio Food Bank, but also to thank their Dominion customers and for exposure to San Antonio’s top business and social leaders. We encourage members and guests to remember their loyalty and generosity, and say “thank you” with your feet by visiting the amazing participating restaurants throughout the year. A meal or two, maybe even stop by for a glass of wine and a fabulous dessert, and mention that you are there to support and thank them for supporting our club event, a wonderful way to show your gratitude. This year The Taste takes place during the very popular member-guest golf tournament, The Renaissance. It will be an even more festive and exciting evening. Invite your friends and neighbors, make your reservations, and we’ll see you at the 21st Annual Taste of the Dominion in May!
2015 taste of the dominion
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CAPT. DEREK G. SINCLAIR
TITLE: Assistant Project Manager and Senior Shift Supervisor Home town: North Banylon, N.Y I discovered early on that my purpose in life was to protect others, and to that end I have been on a journey, a path if you will, that had me serving this great nation for 20+ years on active duty in the US Air Force, then as an Civilian Services employee of the Air Force. While this may not be the end of my journey it is a good place to prepare for whatever is next. The most rewarding experience for me in this line of work is the pride I see on my wife’s and daughter’s faces when I leave the house because they know I am going to be watching over others just like I do them. I have worked here in the Dominion since November of 2012, so not quite four years. I started out as a Patrol/Gate Officer. My favorite aspect about working at The Dominion is the diversity of people living here and the continuous growth. That and the fact that I get to train and work with a group of Officers that strive to represent the community vision of being the best in San Antonio. I enjoy spending time with my wife of 27 years, listening to good Jazz music, and volunteering with the special needs community through the Eva’s Heroes’ organization. A good bottle of wine and a Maduro cigar every now and then will find their way in to an evening as well. 34
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BY Brian Kenneth Swain, dominion resident photography by ben weber As the 125th anniversary of Fiesta in San Antonio draws ever closer images, at first hazy and ethereal, begin to crystalize before us—parades, parties, people from every culture and corner of the city coming together to recall our history and celebrate the heroism of the Alamo and the brotherhood that binds us together as a community. And, while it’s instructive and rewarding to reflect occasionally on the courage and exploits of nearly two hundred years ago, once in a while it’s also illuminating to take a step back and look at this annual festival, with its thousands of volunteers and millions of attendees, through the kaleidoscope of a single relationship, two inspiring people whose lives have, in many ways, been defined by Fiesta. And who have returned the favor by doing far more than their share to define Fiesta as well.
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Long-time Dominion residents, and native San Antonians, Norma and Fernando Reyes first met more than fifty years ago, while he was a student at Harlandale High School and she was still in junior high. Their story begins at a church dance where Fernando mustered his nerve and asked the girl to dance, only to have her disappear with her father at ten o’clock, leaving him with an initial sense of possibility, but no phone number. Still, with a bit of tenacity and some help from a friend, Fernando found that number and began calling the girl’s house. Six months later (again the tenacity) he was finally invited over for a visit. The couples’ earliest adventures together included attending Fiesta parades, where they would buy fruit baskets for fifty cents and stand on them to see the Flambeau and Battle of Flowers parades. They were each the youngest members of their respective close-knit families, and so the parents were shocked when, a few years later, the newly married couple elected to accept an earlycareer opportunity in Dallas. While working at his first post-high-school job, Fernando had met someone who would turn out to be an important business contact, a doctor who put him in touch with someone who might just know of a great government opportunity, albeit one that would almost certainly require relocation. It took nine months of phone calls, and a near miss with moving to Oklahoma City, but eventually the call came and the offer was tendered for a position in Dallas. It was their first time away from home, and it would be twenty years before they would make their way back to San Antonio, by way of Dallas, Washington DC, and Laredo. But it was a return that Fernando’s mother never doubted for a moment—the same mother who had motivated her ambitious young son to be the first in his family to attend college (UT Arlington) and grad school (USC). That first job in Dallas, which was contract admin work for the U.S. government, and a helpful nudge from another friend and mentor, led the young couple to Washington DC, where Fernando began work as a member of a very select intergovernmental management program with HUD, the Defense Department, and the IRS, working on special projects for the White House, Congress, and other federal agencies. And while the experience and the quickly growing network of business associates provided a useful education in the workings of the real world, he soon began to get the sense that there was something missing about the career path he had set out on, one in which his original goal had been simply to secure a position as a government employee. It was an aspiration born of his first job out of high school at Kelly Air Force Base, where he worked as a mechanic’s helper on USAF aircraft, a position he’d aspired to since his youth because it was widely 40
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accepted in his San Antonio neighborhood that a job “at the base” was a ticket to advancement and prosperity. But as that first position in DC began taking shape, he was gradually overcome with the sense that there was a big difference between working for the government earning a weekly salary versus working with the government as a contractor and realizing the economic opportunity that such a relationship affords. At Norma’s prompting, Fernando picks up the story—and a pivotal insight— on a flight to Dallas. “So I’m talking with this guy next to me on the plane, and he explains that he’s a real estate developer for the government, and I realize suddenly that I’m the guy who spends his days reviewing and managing the contracts for people like this, and that while I’m earning my regular weekly salary, this guy is the one making all the money.” The conversation continues as they leave the airport and walk out to the parking lot, at which point the new friend unlocks the door to his shiny Cadillac as Fernando is getting into the same old car he’s had since college. In that moment, the light bulb came on and a career in entrepreneurship was well and truly born. The potential challenges of starting a company from scratch—perhaps initially underestimated in that heady moment of inspiration—were not particularly daunting to the young entrepreneur, for Fernando had never been a stranger to hard work, having started back in high school. He’d grown up working for Naples Italian restaurant on Broadway and Klein’s Department Store, both of which exposed him to the many aspects of running a business—finance, inventory, operations— all skills that would serve him well as he set out on his own new path. So when the time came to start that first business, the couple found themselves in Laredo, Texas, where an old governmental relationship with the then mayor of the small city secured a rent-free building for the start-up, and a promise to work hard to bring jobs and opportunity to the struggling border town. It was a win-win arrangement for the town and for the still-young, but increasingly ambitious (and by now growing), Reyes family. As the fledgling company grew, Norma did payroll and took messages for Fernando as he labored in a small office that had no phone. Returning business calls meant running down the hallway to a friend’s office or across the street to a payphone. Quizzed on the personal characteristics that drove this urge to succeed in a new business, Fernando doesn’t hesitate for a moment. “Business is about people. I’ve met a lot of great individuals along the way who have helped me to become successful. If you treat people well, they will respect you and they’ll work with you.” He’s also quick to point out that the important synergy between he and Norma is because they are partners not only in life but also in work. “Fernando looks at a situation or an object and sees the economic opportunity hidden there,” she says. “I’m more of a big picture person. What’s the context? How does this fit with the rest of our lives? No question, our worldviews are different, but very complementary.” Fast forward a few years and Fernando Reyes is Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Reyes Automotive Group and Reyes AmTex Automotive and Tier One suppliers for Toyota Motor Manufacturing here in San Antonio. His companies lead the manufacturing of plastic parts and carpeting for every Tundra and Tacoma that leaves the [local] Toyota plant. He’s involved, as well, in real estate development, data services, and a host
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of other entrepreneurial endeavors that have made him a wellknown and respected business leader in the San Antonio area. As a result, he and Norma have spent the past several years giving back in countless ways to their community, including serving on the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, St. Mary’s Board of Trustees, and the World Affairs Council of San Antonio, as well as numerous Texas state organizations like the Lottery Commission, Workers Compensation Insurance Fund Board, and Skills Standard Board, and enough other nonprofits and charities to fill a small book. All of which brings us back full circle to where we started this story—Fiesta San Antonio. Though the couple spent their youth attending countless Fiesta parades and other events, they did not get seriously involved in the workings of the festival until their daughter Allison became Fiesta Queen Reina de la Feria de las Flores in 2004, a position that thrust the entire family into scholarship fundraising and set the stage for future involvement in virtually every facet of Fiesta organization, beginning with membership on the Fiesta Commission and culminating in Fernando’s selection as Rey Feo LX in 2008 and Fiesta Commission President last year. As much as Fiesta was a formative aspect of their early lives, the festival remains an integral part of their personal and professional lives, and shows every sign of continuing to be so in the years to come. “You’re helping so many people,” Fernando observes of the family’s active participation in Fiesta, “and having fun while you’re doing it.” But what about when it’s not Fiesta time in San Antonio? Norma and Fernando are semi-retired now and spend a good deal of their time seeing the world while continuing to support a myriad of nonprofits in town. They’ve actually traveled quite a lot over the years, a passion helped in no small measure by Norma’s past professional positions with US Air and as a travel agent. They’ve done pilgrimages to Israel with the Archbishop of Oklahoma City, and are looking forward to visiting Amsterdam in the coming months and taking part in a river cruise there. But no matter how far they venture, they always come home to San Antonio and The Dominion, their residence for the past twenty years, as well as being home to their eldest son and two grandchildren. Back in the day, when it became clear that their business expansion aspirations couldn’t be supported by the space and resources available in Laredo, they found warehouse space here in San Antonio and delighted their parents with the news that they were, after twenty long years, finally coming home (having missed only a single Fiesta during their entire two-decades’ absence). When it came time to decide where to live, they recalled earlier times when they’d driven up and down Highway 10 and aspired to live in The Dominion. Having worked tremendously hard to get to this point and with the opportunity now at last before them, they spent a year searching from one end of San Antonio to the other for architectural elements they could incorporate into their own dream home. They’re in love with the area, and have always regarded it as a gateway to the Texas Hill Country. Norma and Fernando’s first love is Fiesta San Antonio, both for the memories shared by two childhood sweethearts (now forty-seven years of marriage, three children, and four grandchildren later), and for the continuing inspiration that the festival has on their lives. It’s a vehicle for channeling their energy and their generosity of spirit, a way to positively impact the lives of others, and a chance to give back to the city that has given them so much history and happiness.
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Women’s Golf Big 12 Championship April 21-24
Renaissance May 11-14 Course Maintenance (3/8” Aerification) May 16
Men’s Match Play Championship
demo day
May 28-30
We sincerely thank all of our Members that came by the range for Spring Demo Day. The weather was awesome and WOW, there are some incredible products on the market these days. It is always FUN to get our Members equipped with the latest and greatest for the coming golf season!
Course Maintenance (5/8” Aerification) July 5
Junior Club Championship August 14
Course Maintenance (1/2” Aerification) August 22
Men’s Club Championship September 16-18
Senior Club Championship October 1-2
Ladies Club Championship October 5-6
the dominion cup results Congratulations to the Blue Team, captained by Assistant Golf Professional, Michael Kaylor, on their efforts in winning this year’s Dominion Cup. It was a very close battle on Day One with each team grabbing nine points and ending the day in a tie. Day Two was a little different story with the Blue Team notching 11 of the 18 points to take the 2016 victory.
Final Score: Red Team - 20 | Blue Team - 16 Michael Kaylor (Captain) Texas Harper (Asst. Captain) Dan Monroe Larry Miller Edward Stepanow Jaime Goodwin Gary Looney Micheal Schroeder 46
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Dick DeWese Don Brydon Chester Rose Ron Hahn Tom Stephenson Larry Harper Dennis Gutzman Barry McClenahan
dominion women’s golf association by Diane Fitzgerald, president of women’s golf association
Have you ever driven in or out of The Dominion on a Thursday morning and seen a pretty group of women practicing on the golf range? These lady golfers are members of the Dominion Women’s Golf Association (DWGA), and they are warming up for their weekly competitive play. The DWGA offers two playing options of 18- or 9-holes (the “18-holers” and the “9-holers”). You may be ready for the LPGA tour, or just starting out with plenty of swings and misses. All levels are encouraged to play. We want anyone with an interest in golf to come join us. We have several new members this year that are also new to golf and having a wonderful time. The group consists of about 50 members. Among them is our mentor and friend, Cookie Belinsky. Cookie won her first Dominion Women’s Club championship in 1984, soon after the club opened. This was just the first of her eight club championships! Another member, Sonny Won, said she received a letter in 1998 to join the DWGA. She came out with what she says was a 150 handicap (meaning, not a good golfer). Sonny is now the 2015 Dominion Women’s Club Champion. We have a great group of women and welcome anyone to play. Please come out and meet new friends, reconnect with old friends, and enjoy the fabulous South Texas weather. Most of all, come LEARN and LOVE the great game of golf. Michael Kaylor, Dominion Assistant Golf Professional, leads our group. He plans our Thursday mornings with different formats and keeps it fun for all of us. We appreciate all of his help. To become a member, please contact Michael in the pro shop, or come join and play any Thursday morning.
dominion women’s golf tournaments Thursday May 19 Match Play begins (2 weeks to complete each match) June 15 & 16 President’s Cup August 17 & 18 Eclectic Tournament October 5 & 6 Ladies Club Championship
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history of fiesta 125 years of food and fun by brian kenneth swain, dominion resident
“How would you feel about writing a piece on Fiesta for the magazine?” they said. Never one to turn down a writing request, I replied with a confident “Sure, how hard can it be?” Never mind that I’m a relative newcomer to San Antonio, or that I’ve never actually been to a Fiesta event. It’s a big deal here, the biggest deal there is, frankly. Three hundred million dollars in economic impact, three and a half million attendees, more than a hundred events, and seventy-five thousand volunteers all working together to pull off the grandest, craziest fourteen-day party in the city—heck, maybe in the entire sovereign state of Texas. Oh, and with more amazing food over the course of two weeks than a whole nation could eat, much less the million or so residents of San Antonio—brisket, spare ribs, chili, corndogs, jambalaya, oysters, crawfish—all the great food this Yankee boy migrated south to find in the first place. Like I said, a BIG deal. So naturally I set about talking with folks and reading whatever I could get my hands on that had anything to do with this mother of all parties. How did the whole thing originate? What’s the back-story? This year marks the 125th anniversary of Fiesta, which means you need to turn the clock back to 1891 to learn how it all came about. San Antonio was an up and coming metropolis of about 38,000 at that time and the city’s history was—as it still is—founded on the legends of San Jacinto and the heroes of The Alamo. That spring, it was decided to honor these heroes with a celebration during which participants pummeled one another with blossoms, an event that became The Battle of Flowers, a parade that’s now the second largest in the nation behind only the Tournament of Roses. Well, people being generally fond of parties and all, the thing took off and what grew out of that humble beginning was nothing short of astonishing. A hundred and twenty-five years later, Fiesta is now a two-week springtime cacophony of dancing, singing, eating, costume wearing, medal collecting, poster gazing, cascarón hurling, and general carrying on that could only happen in a place as vibrant and carefree to begin with as San Antonio. Since these late 19th century origins, Fiesta has grown to feature an enormous range of events and traditions, including the crowning of numerous royal figures, such as King Antonio, El Rey Feo (The Ugly King), and The Queen of Soul. Among the more extravagant events that make up Fiesta are the Flambeau Parade, Texas Cavaliers River Parade (during which the floats actually float, in this case, down the San Antonio River), A Night in Old San Antonio (NIOSA), and, of course, the aforementioned Battle of Flowers Parade. If you’re the sort of person who wants to know all the whens and wheres before diving into a party of this magnitude, you can find it all on the Fiesta website (www.fiesta-sa.org). Or, if you’re more the let-your-hair-downand-see-what-happens sort, you can show up when it all starts on April 14th and just hang out for a couple of weeks. Either way, you’ll end up with a belly full of great food, a head full of wonderful memories, and a much greater appreciation for your city and its storied history. Oh sure, it might get in the way of you keeping your day job or spending time with the family, but hey, it’s only once a year, and there’s no question it’s the biggest, wildest party you’re going to find anywhere. 48
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the bryan brothers compete in houston
By Barry Mills, Dominion Tennis Director
Starting this month, our members will enjoy Friday evenings on the courts, which is as casual or as competitive as any player would like. Spouses and friends who do not play are invited to enjoy happy hour pricing.
APRIL EVENTS 1st First Fridays Pickle ball and “105”. Casual with cash bar.
5-7th Annual Dominion Ladies Trip to Houston Our team will play against players from all over the state during the day and watch the pros play the US Clay Court Championships in the evening at River Oaks CC.
15th Tax Day “105” for our Men and Women “105” is a fantastic new game allowing multiple players to compete in a fun and fast game. All levels can play
2015 ladies trip to houston
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men’s tennis league Every Tuesday night the gentlemen of The Dominion play. We use many different formats for our men to play to keep the matches fresh and competitive. Our leagues run for an average of six weeks, and then start again. Beer, pizza, and your best Dominion “mates”. What could be better?
mighty muscles Ages 3 1/2 to 8
This fun skill-building program is designed to develop the fundamental motor skills of various sports. children rotate by age group through stations, including: tennis, soccer, basketball, gymnastics, dance, swimming (lessons), golf, karate/self-defence, fencing, and arts and crafts.
junior golf school Ages 9 to 18
Elevate your game to the next level and lower your score. Instruction will focus on refining techniques to inprove your overall game by covering short game, shot making, and on course strategies (buffet lunch and swimming not included).
action adventure Ages 9 to 18
This program offers a variety of sports and adventure based games, exciting challenges, and activities. Each day will consist of a variety of activities that include: tennis, double dutch, swimming, water games, archery tag games, tetherball, survivor challenges and contests, 4 square, kickball, gaga ball, and more.
wimbledon tennis plus Ages 9 to 18
The program provides instruction to beginners and intermediate juniors. It is for children wanting to learn this sport and/or are interested in joining school teams in the future.
golf & tennis
wimbledon tennis
This program introduces juniors of all ability levels to two great lifetime sports, developing basic skills in a fun environment. Schedule begins with golf (meet at the scoreboard), lunch buffet and free swim, then finish your day with tennis. Bring clubs and racquet.
This is a half day program introducing children to the fundamentals of tennis. Includes professional instruction (buffet lunch and swimming not included)
Ages 9-18
Ages 9 to 18
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San Antonio’s Most Innovative Full Service Pet Resort
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This season bring those pampered pets to San Antonio’s finest resort. They will be lovingly cared for by our wonderful staff in our clean, state of the art climate controlled facility. The Wagmore is San Antonio’s most innovative full service pet resort. We cater to all your pet’s needs, from toys and treats, daycare and professional grooming to long term care. Stop by for a tour anytime we are open.
Exit 546
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Visit Our Website for Rates & Full List of Services Boarding
Grooming
9440 Dietz Elkhorn Rd., Boerne, TX 78015
Doggie Daycare
830.981.2273
Training
wagmorepetresort.com
Jait
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slayde
Slayde Hernandez
Jait Hernandez
age: 7
age: 8
SCHOOL: Cornerstone Christian School
SCHOOL: Cornerstone Christian School
What are two words that you think your family would use to describe you? My mom and Dad might say that I’m funny and strong. Super strong.
What are two words that you think your family would use to describe you? I think my mom and dad would describe me as caring and loving. I think.
What is (are) your favorite subject(s) in school, and why? I like art because I love to paint; I love science because I like to do experiments; and I know this last one is not a subject but I LOVE recess. Are you involved in any extracurricular activities (clubs/ organizations/sports)? Tell us about them. I’m in MMA [Jiu Jitsu] and golf. I love MMA because I like to wrestle and learn new moves and train hard so I can get a medal. I love to play golf with my dad and my brother because they make me laugh. My favorite is Jiu Jitsu though. Do you have anyone that you look up to and admire? If so, tell us about that person. I look up to my daddy because he’s strong and big and he’s a policeman. I look up to my mommy, too because she loves me and feeds me and takes care of me and my brother and my daddy. What do you enjoy doing in your free time? I like to do lots of things. I love to go fishing (I want to shark fish at night). I like to work out so I can be strong like my daddy. I like to play outside, shoot birds, go hunting, swimming, and lots of other things. What do you like about living in The Dominion? I like the mountain lions here, the park, the ducks, and I like Halloween here because everyone gives you lots of good candy.
What is (are) your favorite subject(s) in school, and why? I love science because we talk about all the things God created. I love art because we get to draw, and since I want to be an architect/scientist, I really, really love to draw. Are you involved in any extracurricular activities (clubs/ organizations/sports)? Tell us about them. I’m in MMA [Jiu Jitsu], and I also play golf. I love them both the same. I would do both all day long if I could, but my mom and dad won’t let me because I have to go to school. Do you have anyone that you look up to and admire? If so, tell us about that person. I look up to my mom and dad, but most importantly God. God tells me how to act and my mom and dad make sure I follow through. What do you enjoy doing in your free time? I love playing golf, reading, going to the movies, eating (my mom says I’m the garbage disposal), and I also love to play outside. What do you like about living in The Dominion? I love the security guards; we live close to everywhere I like to go; I like going to the park; and I like to play golf here.
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SIMPLY DIVINE Jewelry with a Texas attitude
325 South Main Street, Boerne, TX 78006 • 830-249-7393 www.thegreenbull.com
Carla Ruiz Occupation: I own and operate a restaurant and a full service catering company called Lisa’s. Lisa’s is a San Antonio tradition and home to some of the finest authentic Mexican cuisine and Tex-Mex in the River City for over 33 years. But my most challenging and gratifying job has been raising my three children, now all teenagers-Jose Manuel, Miguel and Isabela. position and Duties on the Board: I am the Neighborhood Outreach Committee chair (NOC). I represent the voice of the community. My committee has over 20 members representing each community within The Dominion. I strive in making their voices heard at the board level. My other duties are to ensure that our community is well informed via emails, marquee sign and The Dominion Magazine. The NOC is responsible for welcoming new residents to our community for planning community events and maintaining an amicable relationship with The Dominion Country Club. This is my 5th year as a Board member and as NOC chair. My term expires 2018. Most enjoyable part of being a Board Member: I love my community. The Dominion has been my home since 1998. I appreciate everything The Dominion and its HOA has provided to my family and I: the relationship with The Country Club, the security, the beauty of the common areas, the Lakes, the swans, nice streets and street signs, and the ability to maintain our home values and the quality of living. It is a privilege and an honor to be able to serve and understand what it takes to maintain our community’s integrity and value. Most challenging part of being a Board Member: I have enjoyed every facet as a member of the Board of Directors and NOC chair. I believe that when you love and enjoy what you do, everything is easier, even those challenging moments. Making enough time for everything that I do is the most difficult part. How long have you lived in The Dominion? I have lived in The Dominion since June of 1998. I have since seen much growth inside and outside of our community.
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What are your favorite parts of The Dominion? For 18 years now, I have enjoyed driving over our Cantera stone bridge knowing that once I cross over it I am driving into our beautiful, safe and peaceful community. It is a great feeling driving in and being waved to and welcomed by our security guards, leaving all the noise and traffic outside of our gates behind.
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by michelle hans & PHOTOGRAPHY BY BEN WEBER
Twenty two years ago, Joe and Cheryl blended their families together to create a life full of love, laughter, and adventures – the perfect recipe for meaningful and precious memories. Since 2003, this home is the Ernst’s perfect place to commemorate and remember their invaluable mementos.
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LIVING AREA “All of our artwork are basically mementos from our travels. Some of the artwork I picked up in Italy…on the streets of Paris… from Barcelona.” “[The fireplace grate] is part of some iron fencing that I found in New Orleans.” Cheryl Ernst
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STAIRWELL “As our son calls it, this is our ‘I-Love-Me’ wall. Displayed along the stairwell are Joe’s awards and accolades, photos from his military retirement ceremony, as well as framed letters from thengovernor George W. Bush and then-Lt. Governor Rick Perry, thanking Joe for his 38 years of service at the time of his retirement.
UPSTAIRS ROOM The room at the top of the stairs is a storied collection of Joe’s military memorabilia, including a large assemblage of commissioner’s coins.
MASTER BED “The headboard is that iron [ fencing] with New Orleans fence posts.” “This is my pride and joy. The fence posts are from New Orleans. We designed it, and I had put it together. I had a welder [put it together].” Cheryl Ernest T h e D o m i n i o n -M a g a z i n e . c o m
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DINING “The dining table was Joe’s grandmother’s table. It always covered up with an old oil cloth”. After she passed, family members came in through the house and took things of sentimental value to them. “No one wanted the table because it was covered up; it needed refinishing so badly, but it turned out beautiful.”
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KEEP CALM & GO TO
LONDON By Isabel Cal y Mayor, dominion resident
London is a city of great history, the first major settlement being founded by the Romans in 43 AD as Londinium, following the Roman conquest of Britain. London is also famous for their royalty, for their spies, for their literature, and also for the beautiful architecture. I find London is a place to enjoy like no other! And I am not alone. As Samuel Johnson, author of a Dictionary of the English Languages, once famously wrote about the city, “You find no man, at all intellectual, who is willing to leave London. No, Sir, when a man is tired of London, he is tired of life; for there is in London all that life can afford.” It is easy to get to London from San Antonio, as there are singlestop flights offered by many airlines. With London six hours ahead, you can sleep on the plane and be ready when you land for a most wonderful experience. A city of great hotels, you can choose between fabulously stately or sleek contemporary. My particular favorites are the peaceful Mandarin Oriental London, which overlooks Hyde Park, and the Ritz London, one of the most prestigious hotels in the city, located in Piccadilly. Some of my favorite activities are taking a river boat down the Thames River and enjoying the London Eye, the great Ferris wheel on the south bank of the river. No one should miss the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace. The Royal residence, Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world is less than an hour away and makes for a great day trip. For the more adventurous, visit the city of Bath, with its 18th century architecture, hot springs, and museums on the site of the original Roman baths. Or take a trip to the amazing Stonehenge, the prehistoric standing stone circle in Wiltshire. Both Bath and Stonehenge are about two hours from London. For shopping you will find everything you can imagine. Stroll down the famous shopping streets: Oxford Street, Regent Street, Bond Street, Carnaby Street, and Savile Row. But, please, do not forget the unique and famous Harrods, the largest department store in Europe. The theatre is amazing in London, with the endless plays in and around the well-known West End, as well as many, many operas, some performed at the renowned Royal Opera House in Covent Garden. Where to dine in London is an exciting yet difficult choice, being home to many famous restaurants of fine and innovative dining, fabulous ethnic choices, and of course, the wonderful pubs. I would like to recommend visiting The Shard. The space, formerly the London Bridge Tower, is a glass architectural marvel and the tallest building in the European Union. Before dinner, visit the observation deck, The View from the Shard which features one of the best views in London. Afterward choose between one of the three restaurants: the Aqua Shard, an upscale British restaurant, Ting, an Asian choice, or the Oblix, a Western Bar and Grill. Wishing you a nice vacation! 66
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Chloe Hello! My name is Chloe! I am a Boston Terrier mix, and also a mix of calm, super sweet, and friendly to everyone. I am 7 years old and weigh 19 pounds. Did I mention that I am also low maintenance? I already know how to be a good family member, especially the part about being potty-trained. Chloe is spayed, vaccinated, heart worm negative. and micro-chipped. To inquire about adopting Chloe, please call Dominion Animal Advocates Group at (210) 854-8055.
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Sheila's story Like many of San Antonio’s abandoned animals, she was left behind to fend for herself on the streets. This beautiful Sharpei/ Pit mix caught my eye on Facebook last March 30th in the early a.m. I watched as her picture was shared over 3,000 times with comments of sadness, anger and dismay, but none of action. I located her about 4 p.m. that day and brought her to her new home. Sheila is one of the best decisions I have ever made Sheila was recently named the runner-up for El Rey Fido 2016.
T H E E XC L U S I V E P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E D O M I N I O N H O M E OW N E R S A S S O C I AT I O N
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FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THESE EVENTS A ND MORE PLEASE CHECK OUT FIESTA-SA.ORG/EVENTS
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by Brigitte B Saidi, dominion resident
Redeployment is a collection of twelve short stories by American writer Phil Klay that chronicle the experiences of soldiers and veterans who served during the Iraq War in Operation Iraqi Freedom (2003 – 2010). The book has been acclaimed as “The best thing written so far on what the war did to people’s souls.” (NYTimes). Since publication in 2014 the book has won the National Book Award, the Marine Corps Foundation Award, the National Book Critics Circle Award (Best First Book,) the Chautauqua Prize, the Boyd Award (Excellence in Military Fiction,) the American Library Association Warwick Prize, and was on the NY Times list of the “Ten Best Books of 2014”. Phil Klay is a graduate of Dartmouth College. He served in the United States Marine Corps from 2005 to 2009 and was deployed to Anbar Province from January 2007 to February 2008 as a Public Affairs Officer. After being discharged, Klay received an MFA from Hunter College. His writing has appeared in The New York Times, Washington Post, Wall Street Journal, and Newsweek. I met Klay at Chautauqua Institution last summer. He is an unassuming young man who was talking in a matter of fact voice about the horrors of the Iraq war. Although his own deployment was “relatively mild” and mostly in reinforced bases behind the lines, he feels strongly that the mind and soul killing experiences of everyday soldiers needed to be told. Klay spent four years writing the book and created different voices to depict their horrendous and many times surreal experiences. We hear from enlisted men and officers, chaplains and lawyers, State Department do-gooders and college students, and, of course, many grunts. Klay explained that “...each person has such a small piece of the war, and that piece will be powerfully shaped not only by when they were there and where in Iraq they were, but also by what job they did. So rather than writing a unified novel about the experience of war, I wanted twelve different voices—voices that would approach similar themes but from very different perspectives.” The sheer emotional torque of Klay’s talent becomes more apparent with each new narrator. The book uses uncensored language (alert!) to deliver plenty of blood and guts stories that wrench your heart, but also stories that violate innocence and faith itself. It will make you think hard about America’s role in the Middle East and beyond.
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6307 GRANADA WAY | $949,500
Exquisitely appointed Mediterranean home on a private cu-de-sac in the Dominion`s newest exclusive community of AndalucĂa. Built in 2014, this home shows like a model with soaring ceilings, Spiral staircase, Gourmet center island kitchen with custom antiqued cabinets& gas cooking, Plantation shutters, central vac, surround sound throughout in nearly 6000sf of luxury. Custom wine room off kitchen, private study, formal dining, butler’s pantry, maids/in law`s quarters down plus sumptuous master with spa bath and an additional guest bedroom. Upstairs, open game room plus theatre room and three additional bedrooms. Outside an extended covered patio and play set accent the .38 treed lot. Additional features include prewiring for security cameras, plumbing for a pool, wrought iron fencing and window treatments.
Denise Graves
CertifieD Luxury Home marketinG speCiaList
www.thegravesgroup.com | dgraves@phyllisbrowning.com | 210-408-4053 | 210-260-2176
26347 Tawny Way • boerne, tx $515,900 | MLS # 1162875 Stunning 3/2/2 Home in the Reserve of Old Fredrickberg Road with tons of UPGRADES. Features Energy Star Rating, established landscaping, oversized lot, huge deck, open floor.
Bluebonnet Realty
C 210.912.8221 | p 830.816.2288 | f 830.816.5903 angelaturnerhomes@gmail.com
The Dominion Homeowners Association 20 Dominion Drive San Antonio, TX 78257
PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID FULTON, MO PERMIT #38