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Solar Solutions
Protect Your Family’s Energy Access
Stephens Roofing is now offering solar energy solutions through Stephens Solar Solutions. Pictured above (L-R) is Owner Ed Torres and General Manager Zane Jackson.
By Amy Morgan
Justlast month Hurricane Beryl knocked out power for much of Houston. Neighbors were left sweltering in the heat while the energy company struggled to restore electricity needed to run air conditioners, refrigerators, WIFI and even vital medical devices.
There’s a way to ensure a power outage will never adversely affect you. Installing a solar system provides sustainable energy and will eliminate your electric bill.
“More and more people are moving into Texas,” said Zane Jackson, Stephens Solar Solutions Sales Manager. “Major energy companies are concerned about the sustainability of the grid.”
Consider a solar system a long-term investment in yourself and your home, Zane added. After the initial expenditure, you’ll enjoy free electricity in perpetuity and never be subject to fees for high kilowatt hours or peak usage.
“A solar system was installed in the United States every 39 seconds in 2023,” Zane said. “Fifteen percent of U.S. homes will be powered by solar energy by 2030.”
Stephens Solar Solutions is part of Stephens Roofing, which has been providing top-rated, trusted service to San Antonio and surrounding areas for more than three decades.
In addition to quality workmanship, Stephens Solar Solutions uses top-of-the line products from manufacturers like Mission, Tesla and Enphase. Each installation is engineered and overseen by both a Master Electrician and one certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP).
“An investment of this nature is not the place to cut corners,” Zane said. “Five years ago, the solar industry was like the Wild West. There were no laws, no codes, people were getting taken advantage of. We are committed to being here for the long run.”
Zane's spent 12 years with the company and makes working with Stephens Solar Solutions easy. He meets with potential clients to assess their needs and determine their average usage. His team will inspect the roof to ensure it is compatible with solar, engineer a design, meet with the energy provider and the city to ensure all the paperwork is submitted correctly, and install the system using in-house contractors. The whole process takes approximately six to eight weeks, and nothing is paid until the entire job is complete and producing energy – that’s the Stephens Solar Solutions promise. The company partners with several lenders to provide financing if desired.
Before any panels go up, the homeowner will agree to aesthetically pleasing placement of the panels. Each system comes with micro inverters to convert the AC energy to DC electricity to power the home. It could include a battery backup system to keep power on in case of a blackout.
Zane believes solar systems provide a better alternative for backup power than a generator, at a comparable price point. Generators require a maintenance regimen most people don’t follow, meaning they might not work in emergency. A solar system will automatically switch off and access the battery if power is lost, so the home never is left in the dark.
Every system Stephens Solar Solutions installs includes a DRIFT program assessment to reduce cool air leak.
The DRIFT package alone guarantees 25% energy savings, and that, combined with the solar panels creating and banking battery backup, will make your home energy neutral, Zane said. Stephens Solar Solutions offers this free assessment to diagnose where your system is losing cooling power. A system install includes a free Google Nest smart thermostat system controlled by an app, so customers can track how energy-efficient their home has become.
A solar system adds value to your home. The green commitment and advantage of no electric bill makes a solar home attractive to young buyers. You can see your property value increase by up to 4.1% when you install solar panels, Zane said.
Have storm damage? If you need to replace your roof to install a solar system, the cost of both falls under the 30% tax break allowed. “It’s a great idea to do it as a combo and take advantage of government incentives for going green,” Zane said.
Stephens Solar Solutions is licensed to repair and replace damaged panels. Call for a free professional opinion. The company offers robust, decades-long warranties. They’ll even come to your home and inspect your roof and system at no charge annually.
Stephens Roofing is endorsed by Dave Ramsey, dun & bradstreet and has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. Find Google reviews here.
With energy costs rising amid ominous warnings of grid failures, you’re just one storm or snow apocalypse away from being without the electricity you depend on. Schedule a free consultation today. There’s never been a better time to create your own sustainable energy.
• Over 25 Years combined Solar experience.
• Up to 97% Energy Consumption offset for the year.
• Every job will be overseen by a Master Electrician.
• Every job is engineered, and overseen by a NABCEP Certified Tech.
• Major energy distributors have announced a 5% electric bill increase equal to $5 per month and projected to go up 20% in the next decade.
• Receive up to 30% tax break with a Solar.
• Studies show 1-7 houses will have Solar on their home in the next 10 years
Pearls of the Beach Sandals
Community Calendar
Presented by Frost
Activities at the Walker Ranch Senior Center – Monday - Friday, 7:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Hot meals served daily from 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. for qualifying seniors and their spouses. Exercise, field trips, bingo, loteria, movies, arts and crafts, free health and wellness screenings vary daily. 835 W. Rhapsody 78216; 210-207-5280.
Stone Oak Rotary Club – Tuesdays, noon -1 p.m. Guest speakers weekly. Dona Tota, 923 Loop 1604 W. #115 78232; www.stoneoaksarotary.org.
Tejas Rodeo – Saturday, March through November, 5 p.m. – 1 a.m. Enjoy live rodeo action: bronco riding, team roping, barrel racing, mutton bustin’ and calf scramble. Live music at 9 p.m. Tejas Rodeo Company, 401 Obst Road 78163; www.tejasrodeo.com.
Nights at the Botanical Gardens
Select Wednesdays from April through September, 6-9 p.m. Enjoy extended hours, savor delicious food and beverages, explore a vibrant vendor market, and hear captivating live entertainment, all amidst the mesmerizing beauty of the Garden during the summer season. San Antonio Botanical Garden, 555 Funston Place 78209; www.sabot.org/gardennights.
Mays YMCA Fall Sports Leagues – Sports for kids 3-14. Days/times vary by sport and age. Registration is open now. Soccer, baseball, softball, flag football, volleyball. Mays Family YMCA of Stone Oak, 21654 Blanco Road 78258; www.ymcasatx.org/ programs/sports/youth-sports.
Huntopia at the Botanical Garden
Through November 3. This world-premiere exhibition features new and whimsical large outdoor sculptures of bunnies, butterflies, and tropical birds from renowned artist Hunt Slonem. San Antonio Botanical Garden, 555 Funston Place 78209; www.sabot.org.
Joe Rogan in concert – Friday, Aug. 2, 7 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 3, 8 p.m. One of the most complex and exciting stand-up comedians working in America today. Majestic Theatre, 224 E. Houston St. 78205; www.majesticempire.com/events/joe-rogan.
Foster Perry Travel presents Greg Manning with Jeff Ryan in its Jazz on the Water series – Saturday, Aug. 3, 7 and 9:30 p.m. By Land & Sea Concert features nationally recognized Smooth Jazz artists. 501 W. Cesar E. Chavez Blvd. 78207; www.jazzonthewaterus.com.
Single Professionals Networking
Meeting – Friday, Aug. 9, 4-6 p.m. Join other 55+ widowed, divorced and single mature professionals for conversation, libations and food in a relaxed, social setting. Stonewerks (Quarry), 999 E. Basse Road 78209; www.spn-sa.org.
SASCA Autocross Event – Saturday, Aug. 10, 6 a.m. – 3 p.m. Participants compete to drive through a mini road course made of cones sponsored by the San Antonio Sports Car Association. River City Community Church parking lot, 16765 Lookout Road 78154; www.sasca.org.
Culinaria’s Rambling Rosé – Saturday, Aug. 10, 1 p.m. or 3 p.m. Annual tribute to the summer wine features six rosé tastings with paired bites. Becker Vineyards, 464 Becker Farms Road, Fredericksburg 78624; www.culinariasa.org.
NEISD First Day of School – Monday, August 12
Barry Manilow Concert – Thursday, Aug. 15, 7 p.m. Live performance by the internationally acclaimed, award-winning crooner, composer and pianist whose career has spanned six decades. Frost Bank Center, 1 Frost Bank Center Drive 78219; www.frostbankcenter.com.
Culinaria’s Women & Whiskey with a Twist at La Cantera Resort & Spa – Thursday, Aug. 15, 6-9 p.m. Sizzling Summer Spirits with High West, with tastings, bites, vendors and live entertainment. 16641 La Cantera Parkway 78256; www.culinariasa.org.
Def Leppard and Journey joined by Steve Miller Band – Friday, Aug. 16, 6 p.m. Classic rock summer stadium tour. Alamodome, 100 Montana St. 78203; www.alamodome.com/events.
Single Professionals Networking Meeting
Wednesday, Aug. 21, 4-6 p.m. Join other 55+ widowed, divorced and single mature professionals for conversation, libations and food in a relaxed, social setting. Parry’s Pizza Stone Oak, 5311 N. Loop 1604 W. 78249; www.spn-sa.org.
Cinque Du Soleil Songblazers: A Journey into Country Music – Wednesday, Aug. 21Sunday, Aug. 25, times vary. Delivering the perfect harmony of guitar grooves and breathtaking moves, Songblazers is a one-of-a-kind theatrical production celebrating country music. Majestic Theatre, 224 E. Houston St. 78205; www.majesticempire.com/events.
3rd Annual KSAT-12 Pigskin Classic
Thursday, Aug. 29, 7 p.m., Gameday Pregame starts at 6:30 p.m. Watch the Boerne Greyhounds take on the Pieper Warriors in a new South Texas matchup. Pieper Warrior Coliseum, 1400 Kinder Parkway 78260; www.ksat.com.
Dentistry Dreams
Hygienist’s Quest for Learning Motivates Application to Dental School
By Amy Morgan
Theroad to achieving her dentistry dreams has not been quick nor direct for Jessica Duncan, R.D.H. Now completing prerequisites for dental school, Jessica’s worked as a dental hygienist with 7to7 Dental & Orthodontics for the past year. Prior to returning to hands-on clinical work performing cleanings and patient education, she spent three ½ years teaching other hygienists at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio. That’s the school to which she hopes to return in the summer of 2025 – this time as a dental student instead of a hygiene teacher.
If all goes according to plan, Jessica’s graduation date will coincide with that of her now 13-year-old daughter, Alex, receiving her high school diploma, making 2029 a year of double accomplishment for the family.
Jessica became interested in dentistry by accident. A friend she met while Jessica was serving in the U.S. Marine Corps enthusiastically shared her experiences training as a dental assistant, which inspired Jessica to follow her example. After completing that program and working for a year, Jessica realized she was interested in doing more. She enrolled fulltime at Concord Career College in Memphis, earned her hygiene degree, then completed a bachelor’s and master’s degree in health science from Texas Women’s University. Now Jessica’s back to school, fueled by her desire to continue to increase her knowledge and provide more direct solutions to patients. “While hygienists offer immeasurable value to patients in the way they prevent disease, I want to be able to help people in a more tangible way that makes life-changing impact,” she said. Jessica joked that she’s chosen the least traditional, longest and most expensive way to become a dentist.
In the meantime, Jessica enjoys being a hygienist. She’s intrigued by the science behind the teeth. “There’s so much – you could never learn everything,” she said. Jessica also appreciates the personal aspect of the field. “You get to have these wonderful interactions,” she said. “Every day I talk to people, soothe someone’s fears, help them or teach them something about their teeth they didn’t know. I can make somebody’s day.”
She praised 7to7 Dental’s non-traditional schedule of being open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., and on weekends. “I don’t mind working a weekend day and then getting a weekday off,” she said. The accelerated hygiene model practiced at 7to7 Dental fits well with her personality and energy. “It’s very team based,” she said. “The assistant helps with X-rays and frees the hygienist to focus on the cleaning. I can spend more time with the actual cleaning and educating about concerns. It’s busier, but more relaxing, because I can spend more time doing what I like to do, which is interacting with the patients.”
Jessica offers options when she notices things a patient is missing, techniques or tools that might be helpful. She also notices areas of trauma and screens for oral cancer. “It’s like being a detective,” she said, “to figure out what they are doing and how it is affecting the tissue in the mouth.” She enjoys motivating people to take care of their oral health, but she emphasizes that it’s important for people to know they are doing a good job. “I’ve been doing this for 10 years, and I’ve never once seen perfect teeth,” she said. “We all need to throw away that concept of perfect. None of us are judging our patients.”
Jessica noted reading is one of her favorite pastimes, not surprising for one who highly values learning. She subscribes to both Kindle Unlimited and Libby so there’s always a book on her phone, preferring Fantasy and Sci-Fi genres. “The more dragons the better!” Her enthusiasm, personality and quest for continuing education will undoubtably continue to propel her upward trajectory of success.
Watch out for Weather
By Camp Bow Wow Staff
Asummer rain brings a smile to the face of most San Antonians – even the bands of moisture from Tropical Storm Alberto in June were a welcome relief from the heat. But storms can turn deadly, and San Antonio is not immune. This year’s La Nina and warmerthan-average ocean temperatures are major drivers of tropical activity, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), a division of the National Weather Service. They predict an above-normal hurricane season for 2024, and August is the traditional peak for hurricane activity.
"Severe weather and emergencies can happen at any moment, which is why individuals and communities need to be prepared today," said FEMA Deputy Administrator Erik A. Hooks. "Already, we are seeing storms move across the country that can bring additional hazards like tornadoes, flooding and hail. Taking a proactive approach to our increasingly challenging climate landscape today can make a difference in how people can recover tomorrow."
A good motto: Be prepared and don’t forget your furry family members.
Know several routes out of town. According to the Red Cross, “If it’s not safe for you to stay home, it’s not safe for your pet either. When possible, Red Cross shelter workers will do all they can to accommodate domesticated pets comfortably, however, depending on the situation, pets may need to be housed in a different location with support from animal welfare groups…. Please bring your pet(s) with you and a shelter worker will help you when you arrive.” The San Antonio Emergency Number for the Red Cross is (210) 224-5151, and you can find an open shelter at redcross.org if an emergency has forced you to evacuate your home.
Many hotels allow dogs. A quick web search of petfriendly lodging lists Marriott properties, Hyatt Place, Embassy Suites and La Quinta brands, but it’s wise to call ahead and confirm with a specific location before you book.
Disaster Prep Includes Your Pup!
How will your canine companion travel? In many cases, they’ll be most comfortable and safest in a crate lined with a snuggly blanket that smells like home – especially if you’ll be staying in an unfamiliar place or with other dogs. And you’ll want a few favorite toys to reduce anxiety and beat boredom.
Build an emergency kit with food (human and canine) for a few days, water and medicines. Include first aid, a backup leash, collar, ID tag, and extra towels in case Fido gets wet or dirty. Make sure he is current on his vaccines and that you have access to your vaccination records, because pet shelters and places that board require proof before they accept a guest. You can also take a picture and store the information on your phone. Many vets keep digital records, so download your vet’s app and know your current password so you can access updates from any location.
If the worst happens and you and your beloved pup are separated, microchipping will help a rescuer return Fido safely. Make sure your information is up to date and includes a back-up contact out of the area in case your whole region is affected. If a storm is forecast, you can place an air tag on Fido’s collar so you’ll be able to track his location with your phone in real time should he flee in fright or escape through a broken fence.
A few minutes’ effort, and you’ll be able to rest easy knowing no matter what Mother Nature sends your way, you and your furry family members will have everything you need to weather the storm.
Ingenious Investigator
Program to Jump Start Future Medical Career
By Amy Morgan
Aspiringto become a doctor is not an unusual goal for bright students, but participating in authentic biomedical research during the high school years certainly is unique. 2024 Ronald Reagan High School graduate Michael Jeffords has spent his summers since freshman year conducting medical research at the University of Texas Health Science Center through the Voelcker Biomedical Research Academy. Just 20 San Antonio-area students are selected each year for the all-expenses-paid program that stretches over three years. Participants learn lab skills and pair with a research mentor in a field of interest. Michael worked under the tutelage of Dr. Senlin Li, researching how bone marrow stem cells can be used to treat neurodegenerative diseases like ALS and Parkinson’s disease. Michael conducted medical experiments, including photographing and uploading thousands of images of leg twitches in mice to a computer model that used artificial intelligence to standardize timing of disease onset. Dr. Li’s team then was able to use that data to make better therapeutic decisions.
While the Voelcker program offered him experience at the cellular level in the lab, Michael realized the medical side of science was “something I want to do in my future.” He’s considering specializing in orthopedics or hand surgery. In the meantime, Michael will be getting plenty of practical experience, as he graduated Reagan not only 23rd in his class, but also fully certified as an EMT through NEISD’s CTEC program. Even as a student, Michael actively participated on SAFD ambulance ride outs and was able to perform hands-on patient care like administering oxygen, stretcher transfer – anything other than actually sticking the IV or distributing medications. One of his most interesting calls involved treating a patient who had been in a life-threatening situation, as the man had been assaulted on the street. “He had a lot of blunt force trauma and knots on his head,” Michael said. “I got to apply pressure to stop the bleeding and give the case report to the nurse.”
He plans to volunteer as a student emergency contact through the University of Texas at Austin, where he’ll start as a biology major this fall. “It’s good experience for my medical school
application, but it also will help affirm the path I want to go down,” he said.
Michael leveraged his experience within the medical community to interview physicians and Texas Vista Hospital COO Chris Sloan for an AP research class paper focusing on the factors involved in the Texas Vista Hospital closing, complete with measures to prevent future closures in similar contexts.
Michael also wrote content for Reagan’s Model UN and attended the program’s state conference his junior and senior year. He volunteered with the Food Bank through National Honor Society and served consistently helping underprivileged children with the Mitchell Chang Foundation. Junior English class with Mr. Cayce impressed Michael, who noted the inspiring teacher was a perennial favorite Summa pick among Reagan seniors. But Michael reached back to Wilderness Oak Elementary GT teacher Ms. Horan as his choice, as she was the one who sparked his interest in medicine in 5th grade through her descriptions of brain science.
While Michael remains very focused academically and with research and medical activities, he credits his out-of-school hobbies as helping him alleviate stress. He enjoys using software to record song “beats” with friends with whom he runs several miles most days. Typical of one always looking for the next challenge, Michael’s training to run his first half-marathon this summer.
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