Right at HOME October 2017 by Kent Kirkman

HOME RIGHT AT

OCTOBER 2017

CLASSIC COMFORT CUISINE Scuzzi’s Italian Restaurant Page 4 SENSATIONAL SHOPPING SWA Holiday Bazaar

Page 10

TENANT ADVOCATE Bottom Line Realty Advisors Page 14 Mazi Enti, owner of Scuzzi’s Italian Restaurant

10/27-29

Spooky Walk at the Parman Branch Library Thursday, Oct. 26, 6 – 8 p.m. Spooky trail, carnival-style games, prizes, food trucks, trick or treating and crafts. Come in costume. Parman Branch Library, 20735 Wilderness Oak Road; 207-2703.

10/29

Falltober Family Fun Events – Saturday, Oct. 21. Farmers’ market 10 a.m. - 7 p.m., trunk or treat, 4 p.m.; free movie, 7:30 p.m. Pumpkin patch, face painting, music and more. The Village at Stone Oak, 22610 US Highway 281 N. 78258; 481-5688.

24th Annual Holiday Ole´ Market – Friday, Oct. 27, and Saturday, Oct. 28, 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.; Sunday, Oct. 29, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Christmas at the North Pole themed event showcases regional and national merchants. Proceeds benefit community programs and projects of the Junior League of San Antonio, Inc. The San Antonio Shrine, 901 North Loop 1604 W.78232; info@jlsa.org. St. Thomas Fall Festival - Sunday, Oct. 29, 3:30 - 5:30 p.m. Trunk or treat and family fall festivities. Prizes for best-decorated trunk. Come in costume. St. Thomas Episcopal Church and School, 1416 N. Loop 1604 E. 78232; 494-3507.

11/3

10/20

Wine Walk for Cancer – Tuesday, Oct. 24 – Farmers’ market, 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., Wine Walk activities begin 6 p.m. Sample wine and food at Village at Stone Oak for a $25 donation. The Village at Stone Oak, 22610 U.S. Highway 281 N. 78258; 481-5688.

10/21

Cycle for Breast Cancer – Saturday, Oct. 14, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Come Pedal for Pink with CycleBar. Take a 20-minute ride every 30 minutes to raise funds for breast cancer awareness. Proceeds benefit the Susan B Komen Foundation. Cyclebar, 22602 U.S. Highway 281 N. Suite 104 78258; stoneoak.cyclebar.com.

5th Annual Paint the Parkway Pink – Saturday, Oct. 21, 7:30 – 11 a.m. Community event fundraising for Susan G. Komen for the Cure®. Activities include a 5K run, 1-mile family walk, kids’ fun run, diaper dash and post-race health fair. North Central Baptist Hospital, 520 Madison Oak Drive 78258; jmmeachu@baptisthealthsystem.com.

10/21

10/14

Reagan Dance Clinic – Saturday, Oct. 14, 8 a.m. noon. Students grades kinder through 9 attend a luau themed clinic, practice dance skills and learn an original routine. Regan High School, 19000 Ronald Reagan 78258 www.ronaldreagandance.com.

Trunk or Treat at the Mays Family YMCA - Friday, Oct. 20, 6 - 8 p.m. Enjoy family friendly games, candy, music and a robotics demonstration. Mays Family YMCA of Stone Oak, 21654 Blanco Road 78258; 497-7088.

10/26

10/14

3rd Annual Parman Craft Show - Saturday, Oct. 14, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Parman Branch Library, 20735 Wilderness Oak Road, 78258; 207-2703.

10/14

Mays Family YMCA 10th Annual Golf Tournament - Friday, Oct. 13, 7 a.m. registration, 8 a.m. shotgun start. On the Course for a Cause fundraising tournament includes lunch, live and silent auction. Canyon Springs Golf Club, 24405 Wilderness Oak 78260; 497-7088.

10/24

10/13

Upcoming Events

Sonterra Women’s Association 23rd Holiday Bazaar - Friday, Nov. 3, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Start your holiday shopping early with unique gifts and fashion, beauty and home décor. The Club at Sonterra, 901 Sonterra Blvd. 78258; http://www.clubatsonterra.com.

Send your upcoming events to StoneOakInfo@gmail.com.

Classic Comfort Cuisine

By Amy Morgan

raving the comfort of classic Italian food? Wishing to enjoy a handcrafted meal with perfectly paired wine? Searching for an upscale bar serving unique, crafted cocktails?

Mazi recreated the atmosphere he found in Naples. “The people were relaxed and welcoming – never rushed,” he said. “I wanted to bring that same feeling to my own restaurant.”

Scuzzi’s Italian Restaurant, 4035 North Loop 1604, provides the experience your heart desires. Owned and managed since 2008 by Mazi Enti, Scuzzi’s has garnered top ranking from every restaurant rating organization around. They have earned Open Table’s Diners’ Choice Award consistently since 2012. Talk of the Town rated them excellent in customer satisfaction for eight consecutive years. Trip Advisor named them Top Italian Cuisine; Zomato, Best San Antonio Restaurant; San Antonio Express News awarded a Gold Reader’s Choice Award in the Italian food category. These plaques and more are proudly displayed on the “Wall of Honor” in the restaurant’s foyer.

All of Scuzzi’s pastas are homemade – even the gluten free, available upon request, he said, just one of the special diets the kitchen can accommodate. “Any item on our menu can be made gluten free – even chicken or eggplant parmesan. If you need vegan, vegetarian, we are here for our customers. I’ll make it (an entrée) however you ask,” Mazi said.

“I wouldn’t be where I am now without my staff ” Mazi said. “It was the effort of the team working hard together.” Open the large wooden and iron doors to enter Scuzzi’s, and you’ll feel at home in an instant. The space is tastefully appointed, with iron chandeliers and wall sconces. White tablecloths and folded napkins provide a luxurious ambiance. A well-equipped bar opens to the left, tables topped in black granite. An outdoor patio stretches the length of the restaurant from which San Antonio’s downtown skyline can be viewed. A large private room with seating for 125 is situated just behind the main dining room. During busy weekend service, the space can be opened to diners. The room also is used for weekend brunch, corporate and banquet events or private parties along with wedding rehearsals.

Shrimp Scuzzi, a guest favorite, is lightly coated Texas Gulf shrimp, served with a garlic, parsley, lemon butter white wine sauce.

In 2015, Mazi won the Shaken Not Stirred Martini Contest with his Tennessee peach martini, dusted with cinnamon and sugar. His cucumber martini is a favorite Scuzzi’s signature cocktail. It tastes refreshing in the South Texas heat, slightly, but not overly sweet. Stone Oak residents may recall enjoying the drink at the Taste of the Northside Fiesta event held at the Club at Sonterra in the spring. Scuzzi’s has featured its cucumber martini (muddled and shaken on demand for hundreds of party goers) along with its signature Shrimp Scuzzi. Both offerings have been perennially top-rated by guests. “Shrimp Scuzzi is lightly coated Texas Gulf shrimp, served with a garlic, parsley, lemon butter white wine sauce. It is rich and light at the same time,” Mazi said. “The softness of the shrimp inside melts in your mouth and pairs really well with the crispy texture on the outside.” Mazi began working in the restaurant business in San Antonio in 2003. Born in Tehran, Iran, he traveled to Naples at age 21 to study architecture before he immigrated to the United States to join his father here. He started at the bottom, often juggling positions at more than one establishment. Now in his mid-30s, he’s reaping the rewards of his foundation of hard work.

Mazi Enti, owner of Scuzzi’s Italian Restaurant, stands in front of the “Wall of Honor” in the front foyer where they have garnered top rankings from every restaurant rating organization in town. Scuzzi’s offers an extensive wine list. Mazi will help you discover just the right wine to maximize enjoyment of your dish. And Tuesday nights, wine bottles are ½ price. If you’d rather drink a specialty cocktail, Mazi is a master mixologist. He learned how to make the perfect martini as a bartender. He can make traditional favorites as well as trendy new drinks. “You name it, we’ll make it,” he said. Wednesdays are a great night to try one out, as signature cocktails are only $5; martinis, $5 on Thursdays.

Scuzzi’s Italian Restaurant 4035 North Loop 1604 San Antonio, TX 78257 Reservations: 210-493-8884 www.scuzziitaliangrill.com NEW Leon Springs Location Now Open! IH 10 and Boerne Stage Road Lunch 11a.m.-3p.m. Mon-Fri Brunch 11a.m.-3p.m. Sat-Sun Dinner 3p.m.-10p.m. Mon-Thurs 3p.m.-11p.m. Fri-Sat 3p.m.- 9p.m. Sun All Day Mondays - Happy Hour All Day Tuesdays - Half Price Wine Bottles $4 Mimosas and Bloody Marys on Sundays

“I’ve done everything that needs to be done in a restaurant,” he said. “I’ve learned from every person whose path I’ve crossed.” He credits God for the success he’s enjoyed and the generous help of others. Mazi is especially grateful for his mentor and business partner, Mori Bagheri, who has owned dozens of restaurants in San Antonio over the years. The two worked together to develop the recipes and menus for Scuzzi’s – where Mazi can be found taking a turn in the kitchen or behind the bar when he’s not busy booking private events, catering or finalizing plans for the restaurant’s new location, which will open at IH 10 and Boerne Stage Road this month. The menu at the new Scuzzi’s will remain the same, but Mazi has configured the space to offer both large and small private rooms and will add a piano bar. Contact him through the website, scuzzisitaliangrill.com, to book a private event.

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*$10 Off $30 PURCHASE OR MORE ON ENTREES ONLY. NOT VALID WITH HAPPY HOUR, TUESDAY HALF PRICE WINE BOTTLES, 3 COURSE MEALS, CHEF FEATURES OR ANY OTHER PROMOTION.

Visit scuzzisitaliangrill.com to book a private event.

HOME OF THE MONTH

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Message from Councilman John Courage You spoke up! The FY2018 budget has been adopted. Last month I spoke with you about the general direction we were headed, and what that meant for the concerns of Stone Oak area residents. This month, I think it is important we discuss some of the details. While many cities across Texas are cutting positions within their police departments, SAPD will be receiving 40 new police officers with all SAFFE (San Antonio Fear Free Environment) officer vacancies filled in the next year. 43 new fire fighter and EMS positions will be created, proving that the San Antonio citizens’ concerns about public safety were heard and are being appropriately addressed. This is a great step in the right direction.

complete this in conjunction with the 2017 Bond projects scheduled for Evans Road to ensure that the area is not under constant construction. It’s important to note that the funds we secured are in addition to the $2.7 million voters approved in the 2017 Bond. This is a prime example of how speaking up can get things done, and I look forward to working with you in the future. Yours in service,

John Courage Councilman, District 9

Of further local importance, I have personally asked Transportation and Capital Improvements to prioritize the rehabilitation of Evans Road between Encino Rio and Bulverde Road. This stretch of road has been the number one local infrastructure concern based on calls and emails to our office. The rehabilitation will be included in the FY2018 budget, and we will be coordinating with Transportation and Capital Improvements to

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Sensational Shopping By Amy Morgan

“It’s a one-stop personal, shopping experience that has something for everyone,” said Barbara DeLoach, SWA publicity officer who has been involved with the event for the past four years. “You’ll find gifts and perhaps that one-of-a-kind item you’ve been looking for.” More than 35 local vendors will offer exceptional wares including furs, men’s luxury items, tasty treats, holiday and home décor, stocking stuffers and more. Try specialty health and beauty products and discover different and delightful children’s books and toys. A local portrait artist will be available to paint a custom piece on the spot or commission something special. And you might even go home with your own golf cart! “This is a fun, free community event where people can enjoy the hospitality of the club,” said Julie Golla, director of membership at the Club at Sonterra. “The work by portrait artist Franco Ruiz was very popular with our membership at a recent event. Each one of his portraits is very unique.”

ooking for a fun, festive way to kick off the holiday season and complete your shopping list? Gather your friends and come to the 23rd annual Sonterra Holiday Bazaar, sponsored by the Sonterra Women’s Association (SWA). The ballroom at the Club at Sonterra will be transformed into a shopping extravaganza, Friday, November 3, with unique items large and small to fulfill everyone’s gift-giving needs.

Shoppers will be treated to festive holiday music and decorations and may enjoy tasty food and beverages to add to the spirit of the season. Admission to the bazaar is free. The Club at Sonterra, located at 901 Sonterra Blvd., is delighted to invite members of the community to participate. Hours run 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Parking is also free and conveniently located just outside the front door.

SENIOR MOMENT

Legendary Local By Amy Morgan

lizabeth Battros’ bright smile, vivacious personality and zest for life belie her status as an octogenarian. Not long ago, she and her business developer husband, Mitchell, owned the most popular upscale clubs in San Antonio, including famed Mad Michael’s, Mitchell’s and the London Steak House. They rubbed elbows with the elite politicians and dealmakers in the city. Good friends included members of District Attorney Nico LaHood’s family and former Mayor Henry Cisneros, City Councilman Van Archer and County Commissioner Jeff Wentworth. “My husband could do anything,” she enthused. “Everybody loved Mitchell.” The couple met at Jefferson High School, to which she transferred her senior year. She and her mother moved from Shreveport after the death of her father to be closer to family and support of St. Georges Maronite Church, which serves the Catholic community of Lebanese descent. The Battroses started out with “one little bitty restaurant” at Stinson field, which they grew into a conglomeration of businesses: office buildings, restaurants and shopping centers. “My husband would build, and I’d decorate,” she said, although she also owned businesses of her own, Liz’s coffee shop, a resale shop and a tanning salon over the years. Mitchell’s Sports Bar, at 1923 Lockhill Selma, still operates today. Elizabeth loved the clubs with the big band music and dancing. She was an acrobat and still proudly remembers winning two Jitterbug contests in her youth. Mad Michael’s was especially known for its band led by Mateo Carmargo and his wife Belia. “Even if you didn’t know how to dance, when he played, you danced,” Elizabeth said. Camargo was a local radio personality on KCOR, San Antonio’s Spanish language radio station in the 1950s. He was a popular broadcaster who showcased Latin American music along with local news and politics. After his death, a park on San Antonio’s West Side was named in his honor. Elizabeth has had a bird’s eye view of the growth of San Antonio. She and Mitchell raised their family in Castle Hills. Their three children attended Churchill High School, with older daughter, Michele, being in its first graduating class. Daughter Stacy and son, Mitchell Jr., still reside in San Antonio. Elizabeth has 7 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. Mitchell passed at 71 in 2001, after the couple celebrated more than 50 years of marriage. In the 1980s, with the children off to college, and careers well under way, Elizabeth convinced Mitchell to indulge her spirit of adventure. They completed a series of travels that took them around the world. In 1982, the Battroses traveled England, France, Italy and Spain: Her favorite spot was Italy, Elizabeth said, citing the culture’s slower way of life, the food and the friendly people. Her most important travel tip is to hire a cab driver as a guide rather than sign up for a group tour.

In the 1980s, Elizabeth Battros traveled around the world with her husband Mitchell, indulging their spirit of adventure.

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“Our driver invited us to his home. I was dying to get to see what an apartment was like in Rome. Then he was able to take us through all the little towns to Florence, where I had a leather coat made. Europe was so picturesque,” she said. They went back to Europe the next year, taking in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. In 1984, they chose the Middle East: Egypt, Turkey, Jordan, Israel and Greece. “We went everywhere,” she said, “Everything was exciting, because we hadn’t seen it!” 1986, they were off to Hong Kong, Japan and Red China, with a stop in Hawaii on the way home. “China was like stepping back in time 1000 years,” she said. “People were paving the streets by hand.” And Elizabeth marveled at the orderliness of Japan. “They didn’t even have dust on the cars!” she exclaimed. Pictures of trip highlights and artifacts bedeck the walls of her home in Independence Hill Retirement Community, where she moved last spring. And her home would not be complete without a candy dish, from which she generously encourages visitors to partake. An enthusiastic advocate of exercise, Elizabeth is pleased she can enjoy the fitness classes offered at Independence Hill. She also loves the Friday Night and Big Band Dances, the last of which featured an Arabian Nights theme and belly dancers. She regularly attends Holy Spirit Catholic Church, although members of the family still participate in festivals hosted by St. George’s Lebanese community.

(210) 764-5260 20450 Huebner Road San Antonio, Texas 78258 www.independencehill.com

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Captain with Character Student Spotlight By Amy Morgan alm, collected, competitive, and character - words that describe Spencer Gilliam, Reagan High School’s 2017 senior football team leader. This is Gilliam’s third varsity season – the utility player lettered his sophomore year, one of only a handful of Reagan boys who achieve that goal.

“Spencer started as a sophomore for us,” said Athletic Director and Head Football Coach Lyndon Hamilton. Although Gilliam has played offense, defense and special teams, “this year as a senior, we’ll give him the ball a little more in the offensive side because he’s such a dynamic player. Spencer was the top return specialist in 2016 and will force opponents to account for him.” In the past two seasons, Gilliam has racked up awards like First Team All–District offense and defense; Second Team All-Area defense for his play at safety; and a place on the KSAT 12 Next 12 list. He was recently featured in Dave Campbell’s Texas Football magazine and is predicted to be the 2017 Defensive MVP for district 26-6A. He also ran track the past three years, participating in the open 100, 200 and 4 x 100 relay. His 4 x 100 team set a district record in 2016, he qualified for region, and in 2017 he earned Academic All-District designation. “I am a really competitive person – I love challenges and competing against other people who are good,” he said. “And I’ve been playing forever – football is part of my life.” Gilliam began playing flag at age 4, graduating to the competitive YMCA Cowboys tackle team coached by Paul Pharris, uncle Steward Perez, and Jeff Jung before starring as running back and safety at Bush Middle School. As a senior this year, he was selected a team captain and part of the leadership council. He plans to motivate everyone to pull together. “People look up to me. I have to set an example and show them how to do things. I don’t get really emotional or mad – I tell them to keep their heads up.” Gilliam does not shrink back from confrontation. He has a strong moral compass and no tolerance for those doing wrong– especially if it’s something that will hurt the team. He recounted a tough decision when faced with a situation he knew was harmful in the locker room. He chose to take action for the greater good where others might have looked away. “I don’t get talked into doing the wrong thing,” he said. “And I’m not afraid to step into a situation if that’s what it takes. If I can’t do the right thing – how can I expect people who play with me to either?” Gilliam attributes his strong foundation to his parents Amy and Lance; his parish, Holy Trinity; and his formative years spent attending the Buckner Fanning Christian School from Pre-K-3rd grade. This legacy of service has stayed with Gilliam, who eagerly participates in community projects sponsored by Reagan’s football program. Team members visit residents at Independence Hill Retirement Community and serve together at the Food Bank. He also was selected as a Reagan PAL this year –ambassadors who lead in the school: conducting tours, mentoring other students in the community and acting as role models. And Gilliam is also accomplished scholastically, with a 96 GPA. His influence will be felt by brother, Daxton, a Reagan sophomore, who follows his brother’s footsteps in football and track. Older brother, Riley, graduated in 2016 and attends UTSA. This fall, keep your eye on Gilliam’s jersey #10, as the football season starts to heat up with district play.

Spencer Gilliam, Reagan football teams captain and utility letterman, was named to All-District team in both offense and defense in 2016.

Spencer Gilliam hopes to play football at the next level, already receiving D1 scholarship offers from Brown and The College of the Holy Cross on the East Coast.

PET TIP

Displaced Dogs

By Courtney Crowley s the Texas Coast begins to heal from Hurricane Harvey, thousands of animals are being pulled from homes and streets of those worst-hit areas. Shelters as far as California have reached out to Texas to accept shelter animals from affected areas to create room for animals displaced by Harvey. This will allow shelters to house animals affected by Harvey for longer periods of time until their owners can locate them. Animal Defense League in San Antonio has made multiple trips to the Coast to rescue animals. Those animals have been brought back to San Antonio and are already available for adoption. If you are looking to add a new furry member to your family, please consider the Animal Defense League. If you can help, even only temporarily, fostering is a great way to make a difference. By emptying one kennel, you are helping that pup and providing room for another to come in. Animal Defense League accepts donations 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. at both of their locations. Donation items requested and an Amazon wish list can be found at https://adltexas.org/.

As a pet owner, it is important for you to plan for natural disasters that might affect you and your pet. Here are a few tips to help you prepare: • Microchips are the best way to help reunite you and your pet. Microchips are as small as a piece of rice. Your veterinarian will place one between your pet’s shoulder blades. If an animal is found, it can be taken to a shelter or veterinary clinic to be scanned, which will list your contact information. It is important to keep your emergency numbers up-to-date and list a contact both inside and outside your city, so you can be easily located. • Fit pets with Pet ID Collar Tags with current information and a recent photo. • Update your pet’s vaccinations and have a digital copy on a portal that you can access on any device. Some vet offices offer an online record. Make sure you have the correct login information. Remember, if you are displaced, there is a strong likelihood that your vet might be as well. • If you are electively displacing yourself ahead of a pending disaster, select a pet-friendly haven. If you need a recommendation, look for a nationally recognized organization like Camp Bow Wow.

In times of natural disasters, there may be little warning. If you must leave your pet behind, create a way to alert responders that animals are inside your home and in need of rescue, as well as the number and type. Do not restrain your pets. Allow them the opportunity to get to higher ground or shelter. Preparation is key, so take time to ensure you and your furry family members are ready before disaster strikes.

BUSINESS OF THE MONTH

Tenant Advocate

J Scott McMurrian Bottom Line Realty Advisors

By Amy Morgan

ou might be familiar with the radio jingle, “Bottom Line Realty Advisors – We Get the Landlord off your Bottom Line.” Did you Y ever wonder what is a real estate advisor? And what does a landlord have to do with your bottom line?

Scott McMurrian, owner of Bottom Line Realty Advisors, L.L.C., offered a simple explanation. “Any business that leases space to run their business cares about how much they pay the landlord every month,” he said. “The decisions you make – the strategy you have or don’t have – affects your bottom line.” McMurrian and his team, Hill Country specialist Tony Kimball and assistant Caroline Farr, represent the tenant - and only the tenant - in finding and leasing or purchasing commercial real estate. Bottom Line Realty Advisors never represent landlords. “Commercial real estate brokers in town make the vast majority of their money taking care of landlords. Many years ago I saw the conflict of interest, and it dawned on me how incredibly one-sided it was,” he said. “You only get a chance once every few years to negotiate a lease well,” he added, and even small tenants can improve their situation if they know what they are doing. Just the fact that a client retains McMurrian adds leverage, he said. It puts the landlord and his leasing team on notice that you’re willing to look at other options. When searching for property, McMurrian can play an invaluable role in deciphering advantages and pitfalls of offers, as technical real estate language can McMurrian follows the Golden Rule, treating others as he would wish be confusing to someone not familiar with its subtleties. to be treated, a product of his 15 years teaching adult Sunday School. He has been active in the Christian Business Chamber of Commerce, “I reduce everything down to a common denominator to compare serving in several leadership positions on the board, including what you will spend on each selection,” he said. “I want clients to president in 2014-2015. He encouraged the group to move its meetings understand the real cost – the ‘bottom line’ - of their options. An to Silverhorn Golf Club to broaden membership and provide an unwise lease can become an albatross around your neck, choking the environment more conducive to networking. He is proud of some of success of a business. the speakers the group recruited: Kelly Shackelford of First Liberty, Dr. Donna Campbell and Nico LaHood. The Christian Business Chamber “There are intrinsics that can tip the balance in selecting a property,” of Commerce meets the third Tuesday of the month from 11:30 a.m. he said. “I may know a particular place has a good or bad property 1 p.m. manager, a difficult owner or other information you just wish you knew before you signed. I give my clients as much wise council as I He counts connections with others his highest achievements. “I may can, based on my personal experience,” he added. only be in somebody’s life for a short season. I want to make that count for good. At the end of the day, it is relationships that bring you joy.” McMurrian brings decades of real estate experience to his clients. He started his own company in 2001 as BonnE Commercial Real Estate McMurrian and Dee Ann’s son served in the U.S. Navy and recently Services, a name he created from a blend of his children’s names: graduated from the University of San Diego. Their daughter is married Bonnie and Eric. Two years ago, he and his wife of 34 years, Dee Ann, and busy raising two toddlers. She and her husband will return to decided the name, “Bottom Line Realty Advisors,” better reflected the Texas with the U.S. Army this spring. company’s mission. Clients retain McMurrian by signing a representation agreement and paying a $300 retainer fee, which is fully refundable when a lease is signed. Bottom Line Realty Advisors are paid a commission from fees the landlord’s broker collects for the transaction. “It is a joy to refund the retainer because that means we’ve been successful finding our clients the space they wanted, and (clients) got to have professional help on their side for zero cost,” he said. McMurrian is the San Antonio representative of the Alliance of Tenant Representatives, ATR, a group of seasoned professionals dedicated to representing only tenants in 26 major markets. They regularly share practical real estate insights, market leasing experiences, and referrals. “I can reach out to this tremendous pool of experienced colleagues across the country to help me if my client has an unique situation or if they need expertise in another city. This network of knowledge keeps me current, which brings value to my clients,” he added.

Call 210-535-7800 Bottom Line Realty Advisors, LLC A Tenant Representation Company Scott McMurrian, President 140 Heimer Rd, Suite 520-A San Antonio, TX 78232 scott@bottomlinesa.com www.bottomlinerealtyadvisors.com Helping you keep the landlord off your bottom line!

LOve match By Amy Morgan

he match between Catalina and Brian Randall is two-love! Tennis plays an important role in their lives. They met on the T court, they were the top ranked husband and wife team in Texas as newlyweds, and their wedding reception even had a tennis theme, complete with Catalina wearing a white tennis dress styled after Maria Sharapova’s 2010 Wimbledon stunner.

The Randalls met when they were partnered together in a mixed league tournament. Love on the court led to their marriage in 2010. That year they finished first in the Texas open ranking for a husband and wife mixed doubles team. “We have a magazine that says we are number one,” Catalina said. “So after that we retired from competition as husband and wife. There’s no reason to do it anymore. We retired on top!” Catalina, who teaches middle school Spanish in NISD, took advantage of the mornings Sara and Jack were at camp to play her own matches. Not only is she captain of the Club at Sonterra’s 4.5 women’s singles team, she is the 4.5 Women’s Singles Champion of the Club and currently number one on the singles ladder. Brian learned to play tennis at his high school in Floresville. After a hiatus, he picked the game up again and quickly regained his competitive edge, now also ranked 4.5. He owns a pool service and repair company, Blissful Waters Pool Care. Both Brian and Catalina enjoy competing in local tournaments and matches. The Randalls joined the Club at Sonterra as tennis members to expand their opportunities to play and introduce their children to the sport. Their children, Sara age 5, and Jack age 4, spent many happy days this summer at the Club at Sonterra’s kids camp playing drills and games with peers, organized by Director of Juniors Development Josh Wiedenfeld. After camp, mom and kids joined friends for an afternoon splash in the pool. They live about 20 minutes away, but the distance does not deter them from actively enjoying the club’s amenities. Although the Randalls have only been members of the Club at Sonterra for a year, they already serve as Club Ambassadors, where they help new members become acclimated. They enjoy welcoming newcomers to social events like DJ nights, inviting them to the pool, and connecting through moms’ group activities. Catalina takes time to introduce new tennis members to teams. “There are a lot of social opportunities for families and kids,” Brian said. “The kids here get to all grow up together,” Catalina added. They agreed the Kids Club, with activities like pizza parties and ice cream socials, provides a great opportunity for mom and dad to socialize, knowing their children are likewise enjoying themselves.

Pictured (L-R) Brian, Catalina, Sara and Jack Randall are all avid tennis players at the Club at Sonterra.

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The Randalls are not shy about spreading the word. Catalina invited her kids’ private coach, Irene Philbrick, to partner with her at the annual member-guest tennis tournament this summer. Now Irene is part of the club’s coaching staff. Catalina emigrated from Bogota, Colombia, where tennis was a sport her family played competitively. She was awarded a scholarship to earn her M.B.A. at West Texas A & M. Her family members followed her to Texas as they furthered their higher education. Eventually, her parents were united with the rest of the family in San Antonio. So, when the Randalls joined the Club at Sonterra, it was a family affair. They brought Catalina’s mother, father, sister, brother-in-law and children, too. Her sister Margarita Kirk is a 3.0 player, she said. One of the nephews, Jairo Kirk, just won the junior 10 and under singles championship for the San Antonio area. Catalina’s mother, Luz Cantor, in her 60s, is a 4.0 singles player. In fact, Luz won second place in the club’s 4.0, 18+ singles tournament. “Our membership is structured around our family,” Brian said. “We feel the Club at Sonterra is a great place to spend our resources. We enjoy being with like-minded families who have the same priorities and values we do.”

~ Our Amenities ~

Two 18-hole Championship Golf Courses Men’s & Women’s Golf Associations Jr. Golf Programs 25 Tennis Courts Tennis Leagues & Junior Clinics Jr. Olympic Swimming Pool Fitness Center Kids Club

Active Military Discounts

~ Social Activities ~ New Year’s Eve Gala Quarterly Member Mixers Valentine’s Dinner Breakfast with the Easter Bunny Brunch every Sunday Wine & Liquor Tastings Summer Music Series Kids Club with Mini Camps Clubs within a Club

Julie Golla | Director of Membership | jgolla@ClubAtSonterra.com

901 Sonterra Boulevard • 78258 • 210.483.4292