Ten West Living March/April 2013 by Dante Klar Media Group

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Call to book your party:

Traci Burton Director of Sales & Catering (210) 293-6110

Melanie Planas Sales & Event Manager (210) 293-6113

245 E. Commerce, San Antonio, Texas 78205 www.rioplaza.net Photos cour tesy of Caitlin's Creations Photography & Design, and Images & Memories Photography

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CONTENTS

2013 MARCH/APRIL

ALWAYS A FIESTA AT RITA’S ON THE RIVER

18 , ROSE WINE

VIVA FIESTA!

HEADPHONES HEAR, THERE, & EVERYWHERE

SPRING FEVER

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GIVE YOURSELF AN CHANCE WITH A GOOD SETUP

ARE YOU MY FAMILY

A LOVE AFFAIR IN BUENOS AIRES

C OF INSPIRATION

DATE BOOK

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pring is here, the unseasonably warm weather has caused some trees to start blooming and bluebonnets are beginning to appear. Soon it will be time to take a leisurely drive through the Hill Country and enjoy nature at its finest. Cascarones, medals and parades! Oh my! This can only mean one thing. It’s time for San Antonio’s biggest party, Fiesta. Ten days, over 100 events and the food! We have everything you need to know about the “can’t miss” events so you don’t miss a minute of the fun. Viva Fiesta! Buenos Aires is a city that blends the elegance of Europe with Latin American flair. It is a cosmopolitan city that intertwines old world charm with amazing architecture, outstanding open spaces, historical sites, and a plethora of artisan shops, boutiques and restaurants. Just like the tango, the city will draw you in and mesmerize you. We would like to bring to your attention a crisis in our community. In San Antonio and the surrounding area, we have over 5,000 children in the care of Child Protective Services and the numbers are steadily climbing. In the article, “Are You My Family?” you will discover a partnership of individuals, organizations and companies working to solve this crisis and how you can help. We hope you enjoy the magazine. When you visit our advertisers, please tell them you saw their ad in Ten West Living. Thank you for your comments, ideas and feedback. Keep them coming.

March/April 2013

Volume 2 • Issue 3

PUBLISHERS Patrick Klar patrick@tenwestliving.com Bill Dante bill@tenwestliving.com

EDITOR Patrick Klar patrick@tenwestliving.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Erich Lynch erich@tenwestliving.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Vernelle Lynch vernelle@tenwestliving.com

ADVERTISING Bill Dante bill@tenwestliving.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS John Griffin, Jennifer Broome, Bjorn Dybdahl, Cesar X. Chavez, Lisa Dante, Cathy Cardenas, Vernelle Lynch, Mike Vardeman, Michelle Longo O’Donnell, Mary Walker

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER Al Rendon, Luis Gutierrez Advertising, Editorial and General Inquiries info@tenwestliving.com 210.807.3860 110 Broadway, Suite 530 San Antonio, Texas 78205

Patrick Klar Publisher

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Ten West Living is published bi-monthly by Dante Klar Media Group. All Rights Reserved. Copyright ©2012. Reproduction of Ten West Living is prohibited without the expressed, written consent of Dante Klar Media Group. Unsolicited material cannot be returned. Ten West Living reserves the right to refuse to publish any advertisement deemed detrimental to the best interests of the community or that is in questionable taste. Ten West Living is delivered bi-monthly to homes on the IH 10 corridor. Subscription rates are $12 per year.

Ten West Living sets high standards to ensure forestry is practiced in an environmentally responsible, socially beneficial and economically viable way. This issue was printed on recycled paper using inks containing a blend of soy bases. Our printer is a certified member of both the Forestry Stewardship Council and the Sustainable Forestry Initiative and meets or exceeds all federal Resource Conservation Recovery Act standards. When you are finished with this issue, please pass it on to a friend or recycle it. We can have a better world if we choose it together.

If this house could talk, it would dare you to compare its blazing Internet speeds to your own. You’d hear words like “killer online gaming” and “ultimate business tool.” It would brag about the ultimate technology running through it — just like thousands of other fiber optic homes in the Hill Country — all powered by GVTC. So, what would your house say?

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The party carries over from the food to the way you’re made to feel right at home.

by John Griffin • photos by Al Rendon

isitors to San Antonio love to get their fill of history by visiting the Alamo. After a day absorbing the legend of Davy Crockett and the battle that took place at the mission, they can then head across the street and down to the River Walk to get their fill of the city’s fun and flavors. Wandering along the tree-lined waterway is a great escape from the heat of the day. So is relaxing on a breezy patio while sipping a margarita, indulging in a plate of gooey cheese enchiladas and watching the world pass by. That’s the charm Rita’s on the River offers. It’s a lively taste of Tex-Mex in both style and food. It’s a place where you’re made to feel right at home, no matter how you’re dressed. And in minutes, you’ll be enjoying some chips and salsa with an icy beer from the tap while barges and ducks go sailing down the river. The restaurant is decorated in what owner Gregg Weston calls “fiesta eclectic,” with its multicolored strands of lights hanging overhead, beribboned crowns cascading down the walls and cantina sparkle. The corrugated metal on the walls adds a Texas touch, giving the dining area its own Tex-Mex quality. It’s as

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if you were in an ice house, a San Antonio tradition that dates back to the days before air conditioning was commonplace; people would gather where ice was sold to chill out and have a beer, enjoying each others’ company over music. It didn’t cost much, but it was a great way to spend an evening. The music at Rita’s includes Texas-style country and rock as well as some old favorites. A special treat is when a strolling mariachi band makes a stop during lunch or dinner to entertain the crowds. The musicians, replete with their sombreros and matching short jackets, play for tips and will gladly take requests, whether you want them to serenade your sweetheart with a romantic ballad, such as “Besame Mucho” or you want to get the house energized by a rousing rendition of “La Cucaracha.” Even locals never tire of seeing these uniformed strolling players or hearing their lively music. Their appeal goes beyond age, too, and you’ll see the children sit spellbound in Rita’s as they watch the musicians play their violins and guitars. Rita’s appeals to visitors from all over, especially families looking for a variety of tastes to please everyone and at a price that won’t put a dent in your credit card. The menu is made up of

Above: Beef Fajitas served on a hot skillet with sautĂŠed peppers and onions, rice, refried beans, pico de gallo and our homemade flour tortillas. Ten West Living

Above: Texas Size Strawberry Margarita

hometown favorites, such as tamales, chalupas and homemade chili. “This is Texas-style Mexican food,” Rita’s kitchen manager, Jesse Padilla, says. “This is traditional Tex-Mex, not Austin-Mex, not Cal-Mex, but Tex-Mex.” That means enchiladas as well as Spanish rice and refried beans, but it’s so much more. Sizzling platters of fajitas always catch the eye as a cloud of smoke swirls by tables from the kitchen. Yet it’s the flavor of the steak strips, the chicken or the shrimp, mixed with peppers and onions, that will win you over. Spoon some into a handmade tortilla and top it with your choice of sour cream, guacamole, cheese, salsa or pico de gallo. Roll it all up and let the culinary tradition of the city take over. And if you don’t feel like meat that evening, try the vegetable fajitas made with fresh mushrooms, squashes, tomatoes, broccoli and carrots in addition to the peppers and onions. Fish tacos are filled with grilled seafood, not fried, and then topped with sweet sautéed onions, crunchy strands of green cabbage and silky smooth slices of ripe avocado. Add a little kick from the pico de gallo for a light yet satisfying meal. Also worth investigating are pulled pork tacos with shreds of succulent pork topped with cilantro and onions; though the dish is relatively new to the menu, its flavor is pure comfort. And if you can’t decide what it is you want, there’s always a series of combination plates in which you mix and match tacos and enchiladas. One of the secrets is that Rita’s makes as much in the kitchen as possible, Padilla says. That includes the salad dressings, including a zippy chipotle ranch, and the hot sauce used on the boneless chicken wings and Buffalo chicken sandwich. Handmade flour tor-

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Above: Fish Tacos, grilled seasonal fish served with sautéed onions, shredded cabbage, pico de gallo and sliced avocado

tillas are rare on the River Walk, and Rita’s are worth a try alongside a chile relleno or with the carne guisada. Desserts have developed their own following, which you can tell from one spoon of the dense, creamy flan or the rich triple-layer chocolate cake, which is served with a scoop of ice cream. Also popular is the fried ice cream, which really is fried before it’s served. One of the bars margaritas, either frozen or on the rocks, is a perfect companion to any of the dishes you order, Rita’s, named after Weston’s grandmother Rita as well as San Antonio’s favorite cocktail, has an array of variations in both regular and Texas sizes, depending on how much you plan to party. El Jefe is made with patron Silver, the Old Faithful uses Cuervo Tradicional, and the Longhorn opts for Sauza Hornitos Plata. You can add reposado or añejo tequila or add a touch of fruit flavor to it, with everything from strawberry and desert pear to hibiscus and sour apple. You can also get a Dos-a-Rita, in which a bottle of Dos XX lager is upended into a frozen margarita. It may have started as a fad,

Above: Fried Ice Cream

Above: Tortilla Soup, garnished with avocado and tortilla chips

Above: Mariachi serenading a couple celebrating their Anniversary

but it has remained popular in San Antonio for several years now and shows no sign of abating. As soon as folks in the dining room see one being served, it seems as if another half-dozen orders are placed, Padilla says. Beers also have their own appeal after a long hot day, and Rita’s offers a blend of Texas and Mexican favorites. Some of the local beers include Pedernales, Shiner, Alamo and Lone Star, while the import list includes Negra Modelo, Modelo Especial, Tecate and Tecate Light, Dos XX Amber, and Corona and Corona Light. Rita’s is more than just a Tex-Mex restaurant. Within the Rio Plaza, on two stories, you can find Pizzarita’s, a pizza parlor where you can grab a slice if you’re in a hurry; Fudge E. Rita’s, a candy shop dripping in chocolate goodies; and Bonita Rita’s, a gift shop where you can get souvenirs of your visit. There’s also a catering company that can help you with any parties you may want to throw, whether you’re looking to schedule a barge dinner or space for up to 1,000 people. The menu will also be crafted to suit your tastes, Padilla says, so if you want something beyond Tex-Mex, such as Italian,

just talk with the banquet manager. Booking a barge dinner is also easy, though Rita’s asks for at least a week’s advance notice so it can work out the scheduling with the barge company. It’s a view of San Antonio you’ll never forget. Tied in with the food and drinks is the staff’s attempt to make everyone feel welcome, Weston says, stressing the importance of hospitality as part of a customer’s overall experience at Rita’s. He credits his managers with making that happen. “It’s part of our commitment to improve,” he says. “Good is not good enough.” Padilla agrees. “Without our guests we wouldn’t be here,” he says. And they like it, because “we offer better food and a better deal for the price.” Rita’s on the River 245 E. Commerce St. 210-227-7482 www.ritasontheriver.com

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Ingredients: 1/2 Cup Sugar 6 Eggs 3 Cups Milk 1 1/2 Teaspoon Vanilla 1 Teaspoon Orange rind, grated 1” Foil cups Directions: 1. Heat 1/2 cup sugar in a heavy skillet or sauce pan, stirring constantly until it melts and turns a dark golden color 2. Remove from heat and immediately pour into 1” foil cups. Swish it around so it evenly coats the bottom of the foil cups 3. In a large mixing bowl, lightly beat eggs 4. Stir in milk, 1/2 cup sugar, vanilla and orange peel 5. Place caramel coated foil cups in another pan and place on oven rack 6. Pour egg mixture into the foil cups and poor the hottest tap water possible around the molds a depth of 1” 7. Bake at 325 degrees for close to one hour or until knife comes out clean 8. Cool flan on a wire rack. Chill for at least 3 1/2 hours 9. To unmold the flan, loosen edges with a spatula. Slip spatula down sides of foil to let air in and remove. Always be careful with hot items, enjoy when temperature permits. The above measurements will produce approximately fifteen individual flan helpings.

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1.5 6-Pound cans of pinto beans 1/2 Pound bacon pieces 1 1/4 Bunches of fresh cilantro 1.5 Diced onions 3 Diced tomatoes 1.5 Fresh jalapenos 6 oz. Modelo Especial beer 1/2 Tablespoon granulated garlic 1/2 Teaspoon Comino 1.5 Tablespoon salt 1 Tablespoon ground pepper 1 Quart water Instructions: 1. Cut bacon into small pieces, (diced) remove fat. 2. In a sauce pot, cook diced bacon until translucent. Leave in pot with grease. 3. Add onions, tomatoes, jalapenos and sauté for approximately two minutes 4. Add granulated garlic, salt, and beer. Sauté for one minute. 5. Add beans, water, pepper and cilantro to the sautéed bacon and vegetables. Cook for approximately ten minutes. Remove from skillet. Always be careful with hot items, enjoy when temperature permits. This recipe will produce approximately two gallons of borracho beans.

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305 South Main Street | Boerne, Texas 78006 | (830) 249-9879

A WORLD OF DELIGHTFUL CHOICES Ten West Living 17 210 SOUTH MAIN STREET • BOERNE, TEXAS 78006 • (830) 331-9355 • BOERNEEPICURE.COM

by Cesar X. Chavez upposedly it’s still winter time in certain areas of the country, but you’d never know it living in South Texas! While the north-eastern part of the country freezes and the masses huddle up next to a cozy fire with their favorite bottle of red wine, San Antonians are cutting their lawns, getting their gardens ready for planting and shooting basketball hoops while holding a glass of rosé wine. You probably are thinking, hey, wait a minute, I’ve never seen anyone with a glass of rosé in his hand shooting baskets - maybe a bottle of beer, but not wine. All I can answer to that is, you’ve never been to my house. As you might have gathered by now, my topic for the Spring is Rosés. Many of you have heard many pros and cons about rosé’s, white zinfandels, what to buy and what not to buy. Of course, you probably have heard that most wine professionals and experienced wine people do not enjoy rosé wine due to the poor public perception in the wonderful world of wines. Some might consider drinking rosés as unsophisticated or taboo, but when it all boils down, you

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drink wine for yourself, your tastes and not for other people. I’ve been in the wine business for over thirty years and I not only enjoy rosés in the Spring and Summer, but all year around! I especially enjoy imbibing rosés with lunch. I consider lunch kind of an easy-going, not so serious time of the day to eat something you need for quick nourishment. rosés go great with burgers, sandwiches, salads, and especially a Caesar salad with grilled chicken where a white wine is a bit too light and many times a red is just a bit too heavy. Even though many wine drinkers consider rosé a casual–drinking wine, it really goes quite well with pork, chicken, and fish-especially a grilled salmon steak. I find it that it is acidic enough to cut through the fat but not so much that it distorts the taste of the meat. Rosés also go great with our ever-loving Tex-Mex food. Nothing pairs better with a great plate of cheese enchiladas with rice and beans than a great bottle of fresh vintage rosé.

Many 2011 vintages are still fresh enough to drink, especially while we wait for the 2012’s to arrive. Here are two of my favorite suggestions: Domaine de Fontsainte “Gris de Gris” Rosé 2012 This has to be one of my favorite rosés that I enjoy drinking at its best – when it’s FRESH! One of the oldest vineyard sites in southern France is located in the Corbieres appellation of the Languedoc region, that dates back to 25 A.D. This wine is produced from 70% Grenache Gris, 10% Mourvedre, 10% Carignan and 10% Cinsault. The term “Gris de Gris” basically means gray to gray. The wine is to be made from at least 50% of a light skinned red grape such as Grenache Gris in order to have the term on the label. The grapes were harvested by hand and the juice had a 12-14 hour skin exposure. The wine is salmon in color, has a strawberry nose, plenty of fresh fruit and if you close your eyes, it almost reminds you of a solid Sauvignon Blanc , but without the grassiness or bitterness. A super find! Retail Price - $17-18.99

So how are rosés made? Rosé wines are basically white wines made from red grapes and the juice is left in contact with the skins for 12-24 hours or 2-3 days, depending on how much color the wine maker wants to extract. Rosés are at their best in the first year of production when the fruit flavors and acids are fresh and bright. There are many different types of rosé out in the market today and some you might be mildly shocked to know that cost well over twenty dollars a bottle! That much for a rosé, when you can buy a domestic white zinfandel for less than five dollars? And please, don’t get me started talking about white zinfandel, I DON’T DRINK IT and I’d rather devote this article space to what I consider real rosés. How to drink rosés As you probably know by now, rosés are best served chilled, like white wine. I believe a fahrenheit temperature between 52-55 degrees comes along the lines as almost perfect.

Ojai Rosé 2011, Central Coast This 2011 is made from Mourvedre (50%) from Vogelzang Vineyard in Santa Ynez, Grenache (25%) from Rich Vineyard in Ojai and Syrah (25%) from Roll Ranch in Ojai in the Central Coast area of California. Fremented in older French barrels, this rosé is dry, clean with beautiful aromas and a beautiful long finish. Retail Price - $19.99 Have a great Spring and enjoy.

I usually use a white wine glass for rosés which typically is smaller than a red wine glass. Swirling the wine is recommended just like you usually swirl your reds, which is to release all the beautiful aromas and bouquet. If you have any rosé left after your meal, putting the cork back in and storing it in the refrigerator for the next day is not detrimental . I have found that rosés usually take on a unique character change when stored overnight. Something about the slight tannins the wine has, unlike storing a red wine in the refrigerator that has an ample amount of tannins and that after opening, seems to be exaggerated. With rosés, the tannins do not over power the fruit and acids as in reds but actually enhance the flavors and take on a different quality of taste. Even 3-5 days of refrigeration on some rosés have produced quite a different but enjoyable drinking experience. Rosés come from most countries and from any red grape- Syrah, Cabernet, Grenache, Mouvedre, etc. While some of the best rosés come from the southern part of France like the Provence and Languedoc regions, where the French population guzzles these wines by the gallon, many domestic wineries are producing some rosés of quality from straight varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Pinot Noir. Whatever the country, region or varietal, these blush wines lose their freshness within 2 years of release. So, right now as I write, the 2012 vintages are coming onto the marketplace and with this warm weather we’re having in Texas, it’s time to enjoy a really great bottle of dry rosé. Ten West Living

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by Vernelle Lynch

What began as a one-parade event has evolved over the past 122 years into one of America’s greatest festivals. Our beloved party with a purpose does more than just commemorate the heroes of the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto that won Texas’ independence from Mexico in 1836. It is an 11 day celebration of San Antonio’s rich and diverse cultures and history that raises funds by the official Fiesta events that provide services to San Antonioians throughout the year. So mark your calendars, put together your best Fiesta outfit and get ready to celebrate this April 18th – 28th and lets “Viva Fiesta!,” like there’s no mañana. Take a peak at our guide into some of our favorite Fiesta events. There is truly something for everyone, from music lovers to foodies, art geeks, party-goers, and families…well you get the point.

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The Texas Cavaliers River Parade April 22nd - 7pm-9:30pm on the San Antonio River Walk The Texas Cavaliers River Parade is one of the most unusual in America. This floating parade is a sight to see for those not accustomed to San Antonio’s river parades. This year’s parade is titled “Stars on the River,” and promises an evening of fun with live music, celebrities, embellished floats, confetti and lights. Onlookers are treated to a spectacular display as the parade glides its way through the heart of San Antonio. Bring the whole family, everyone will be delighted by the over 40 professionally decorated barges filled with costumed participants, live bands and Fiesta Royalty. King Antonio XC will reign over the evening’s festivities as confetti fills the air. Reserved tickets range from $12-$24 and there are several ways to get your hands on them: Online at www.texascavaliers.org or by phone at 210-22-RIVER and at the Fiesta Store located at 2611 Broadway. Battle of Flowers Parade April 26th - Vanguard at 11:30am, Parade at 12:30pm Downtown San Antonio In 1891, Mrs. James Slayden, the wife of a congressman, decided that Fiesta should have a “Flower Parade,” like the one she saw in Spain while on vacation. Her passion to honor the fallen heroes of the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto led her and a group of dedicated ladies to found the Battle of Flowers Parade. This tradition holds strong as parade participants place floral tributes on the lawn in front of the Alamo to honor its heroes. This year’s Battle of the Flowers Parade celebrates world festivals and anniversaries, commemorating independence won near and far. Spectacular, flower covered floats with participants adorned in colorful costumes, beautiful dresses, and striking uniforms feature local civic and military groups, businesses and members of Fiesta Royalty. Giant helium filled floats, horse drawn carriages and antique cars along with uniformed cavalcades and bands perform their routines as they dazzle the crowd. It is interesting to note that the Battle of the Flowers Parade is the only pa-

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rade in the United States produced entirely by women. You can spot these lovely volunteers dressed in yellow outfits. Reserved seating is available for $12 - $25. Tickets are available at the Fiesta Store located at 2611 Broadway, by phone at 210-225-5191 and online at www.battleofflowers.org. Keep in mind, many people enjoy the parade for free along the many public viewing areas along the parade route. Fiesta Flambeau Night Parade April 27th – Vanguard at 7pm, Parade at 7:45pm Downtown San Antonio This year’s Fiesta Flambeau Night Parade marks the 65th anniversary of the parade. It is one of the largest illuminated parades in the US with an estimated 700,000 spectators along the streets of San Antonio and another 1.5 million in the television viewing audience. Be sure to not get stuck in front of your TV, this parade is a spectacle worth the drive. This year’s parade theme “Celebrating San Antonio,” will do just that by featuring floats representing San Antonio. The University of Texas Longhorn Band will lead the parade, as it has traditionally done for years. Grab your glow sticks and watch as a night of incredible entertainment unfolds. Marching units, out-of-state bands, equestrian and musical groups along with many other attractions come together to create a night of memorable, illuminated memories. The parade is not the only thing to enjoy. The parade route will be lined with food booths as well…so save room for a turkey leg and a sausage on a stick, you know you will have both. Tickets for reserved seating are available for $12 - $25 at the Fiesta Store located at 2611 Broadway, online at www.fiestaflambeau.org and by phone at 210-735-6644.

First Page: Dancers at Family Fiesta; Opposite Page: Fiesta Royalty at the Battle of the Flowers Parade, King Antonio presiding over the Texas Cavaliers River Parade, Dancers in the Fiesta Flambeau Night Parade.

This Page: Oysters at the Fiesta Oyster Bake, Beautiful gown at the Coronation of the Queen of The Order of the Alamo, Cornyation in full swing.

group chose its first Queen and staged her coronation at the Old Beethoven Hall in 1909. It is now known as one of the most magnificent events of its kind in the country. It is a fantasy-filled whimsical evening awaiting those who attend. The stage is impressively set as the Duchesses make their full-court bows followed by the presentation of Her Royal Highness and Princess and the Coronation of Her Gracious Majesty, the Queen. All of the court members wear elaborate dresses with trains covered in glittering beads, crystals and jewels. This is a unique event that will be unforgettable for the whole family. What little girl doesn’t want to be a princess? Cornyation April 23rd, 24th and 25th - 8pm–10pm and 10:30pm-12am Charline McCombs Empire Theatre at 226 N. St. Mary’s St. Originally part of “A Night in Old San Antonio,” Cornyation dates back to 1964. Its controversial nature led to its removal from the NIOSA program, but in 1982 a group of local artists revived the celebration and it has grown to be one of the most popular Fiesta events. King Anchovy presides over the festiviites surrounding the duchesses, queens, vice empress and empress of the 2013 cort’s bows. Hilarity, nonsense and merriment escalate as the show unfolds. Pokes at politics and world events keep everyone on their toes. Known as “the raunchiest event of Fiesta” it is definitely adults only. Call the babysitter now, hopefully she hasn’t made any concrete Fiesta plans yet, and plan a night out on the town of your own. Doors open one hour before show time so don’t be late. Tickets range from $15 to $30 and are available at the Arts Center Enterprises box office located at 224 E. Houston St., at the Fiesta Store located at 2611 Broadway and through Ticketmaster. You can also visit www. cornyation.org for more information. Coronation of the Queen of The Order of the Alamo April 24th – 10:30am-1:30pm Majestic Theatre on 224 E. Houston St. Founded by San Antonio businessmen and community leaders, The Order of The Alamo celebrates Texas’ heroic struggle for independence. The

Tickets range from $40-$60. They are available through the Majestic Theatre box office by calling 1-800-754-3000. Fiesta Oyster Bake April 19th – 5pm-11pm & April 20th – 11am-11pm St. Mary’s University Campus at One Camino Santa Maria What began as a small gathering of St. Mary’s University alumni in 1916 is now one of the most popular Fiesta celebrations. This year’s Oyster Bake celebrates its 97th anniversary. Wow. That’s a lot of years. It features more than 100,000 oysters, from raw, baked, fried, you name it, they’ve got it. Not too keen on oysters? Do not worry, there will be over 60 food booths dishing up Fiesta favorites such as fajitas, sausage on a stick, egg rolls, hamburgers, chicken on a stick (is there any limit to what you can put on a stick? I think not!) as well as a variety of beverages in both the adult and kid-friendly flavors. The fun does not stop there, after your belly is full, fill your ears with the continuous lineup of live music on five different stages. Enjoy the children’s area filled with games and interactive entertainment…and a spectacular fireworks finale. Admission is $18 in advance, $20 at the gate, and $30 for a 2-day advance ticket and children under 12 are free. Advance tickets are available at The Fiesta Store at 2611 Broadway. Limited on-campus parking is $15. For more information visit www.oysterbake.com or call 210-436-3324.

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at La Villita for NIOSA, one of the most popular Fiesta events. Tickets are $10 in advance, $12 at the gate, $2 for children 6 to 12, $1.50 in advance. For more information visit www.niosa.org or call 210226-5188.

This Page: Street dancing at Fiesta Fiesta, The sun setting over NIOSA, Little boy enjoying the Fiesta Arts Fair; Next Page: The Carnival, Food booths at Taste of New Orleans, Fiesta hats at Fiesta de los Reyes at Market Square, Float in the King William Fair Parade. Fiesta Fiesta at the Alamo April 20th – 5pm-9pm at Alamo Plaza Kick off Fiesta in front of one of the most iconic sites in San Antonio, the Alamo. Fiesta Fiesta is a massive celebration that is the official opening of Fiesta 2013. This event will feature live entertainment, street dancing and booths featuring other exciting Fiesta events to come. Bring the kids, they will love the children’s area filled with fun activities. Pin Pandemonium will also take place at Fiesta Fiesta, where everyone can buy, sell and trade their Fiesta pins. Cheer on a parade of Fiesta royalty, military ambassadors and the over 100 non-profit groups that make Fiesta happen. Be sure to have your cascarones ready to be cracked, as the confetti flies through Alamo Plaza everyone proclaims “Viva Fiesta!” Admission to this event is free. Call 210-227-5191 for more information. Night in Old San Antonio (NIOSA) April 23rd - 26th – 5:30pm-10:30pm at La Villita NISOA (pronounced “knee-oh-sa”) is a four night extravaganza that celebrates San Antonio’s unique cultural heritage with over 240 elaborately decorated food and drink booths and more than a dozen stages of nonstop entertainment in 15 heritage themed areas. The event is held in the historic downtown village of La Villita. What began as a handful of society ladies serving food and drink from river barges has grown into the largest historic preservation festival in the nation. This event is all about meeting, greeting and best of all eating and drinking. Gather your friends and rally

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Fiesta Arts Fair April 20th – 10am-6pm & April 21st – 11am-5pm Southwest School of Art on 300 Augusta For 40 years, Fiesta Arts Fair has celebrated creativity and been a favorite of families and art lovers alike. This year’s juried art fair will bring together 120 artists from across the nation, displaying contemporary works of art. Fiesta Arts Fair takes place on the shady grounds of the Southwest School of Art and Craft’s Ursuline Campus at the corner of Augusta and Navarro. One of the best-loved activities is the Children’s Art Garden, where kids work with professional artist to create their own work of art. While art is always the main attraction, Fiesta Arts Fair will also feature traditional fiesta food plus two stages of live music and entertainment throughout the two day celebration. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children. There is also a two-day pass for only $15. Tickets are available at The Fiesta Store located at 2611 Broadway. For more information visit www.swschool.org.

Fiesta Carnival April 17th - April 28th, various hours Alamodome Parking Lot C at 100 Montana A big hit with the kiddos is always the Fiesta Carnival at the Alamodome. With exhilarating rides for all ages, a fun-filled entertainment line up and delicious food, you can easily fill a day with non-stop family fun! As you arrive to the entrance, take a deep breath and let the thrills and chills fill your soul with excitement. This year’s carnival will be featuring the one-of-a-kind Fighter ride! Be sure to try the Mega Drop and the Zyklon Coaster for max airtime and screams. Ride the Mulligan Wheel for some family fun and let the kids take the Bear Affair for a spin (no pun intended!). Still looking for more? There are plenty of activities to enjoy! The kids will love Mega Bounce Land, a Texas sized bounce haven for all. There is also a full line up of world-class circus shows that will certainly impress! Onlookers will enjoy the Banana Derby, a dog race where the monkeys are the jockeys, and the Wild Bill Show, a fun show where the audience gets the chance to join in on the fun!

Market Square will provide the ultimate in music, entertainment and food to satisfy even the most discerning partygoers. Take pleasure in live entertainment from multiple stages featuring folkloric dancers and a variety of music, including the best Tejano and Conjunto, Latin jazz, and countrywestern music around. Families can enjoy the kid’s area, Reino de los Ninos, filled with kid-friendly entertainment, games and food.

The Fiesta Carnival will open April 17-28th for what is sure to be the best carnival yet. Admission to the grounds is free. You simply pay by the ride, or get an Unlimited Pass to make the most out of your time. For more information visit http://www.wadeshows.com/. King William Fair April 27th – 9:30am-6pm King William Historic District Celebrate the history and diversity of Texas’ first historic neighborhood, the King William District, at the King William Fair. First started in 1968, the fair has grown from a one-block art exhibit to a major Fiesta event. This family friendly event includes something for all ages, from arts & crafts booths to live music, dance groups, a small parade, the Kid’s Kingdom and of course delicious food. The highlight of the fair is the best little Parade in Texas, only 1 1/2 mile long, that starts at 10am. Watch as this fun and funky parade strolls by, filled with floats, political parodies, parading pooches, Kings, kids, marching bands and dancers with security provided by the Alamo City Roller girls. Once the parade commences the King William Fair becomes a bustling area of people enjoying the outdoors and reveling in all the sights. Admire stately Victorian mansions as you stroll through the crowd. Many have been lovingly restored and provide beautiful backdrops for over 200 of Texas’ best artisans as they offer their creations and demonstrate their artistry. The King William Fair takes place in the historical King William District centralized at 1032 S. Alamo. Admission is $10 for adults, kids 12 and under are free. For more information call 210-271-3247 and visit http:// www.kwfair.org/.

Be sure to come hungry, more than 30 food booths (can you say funnel cakes!) can also be found at Fiesta de los Reyes. Relish in spicy Mexican cuisine, savor Cajun dishes, devour hamburgers and wash it all down with a delicious fruit drink then move on to the margaritas and beer! Admission is free. For more information visit www.reyfeoconsejo.org. Taste of New Orleans April 19th – April 21st, various hours Sunken Garden Theater in Brackenridge Park Pack up the family and journey over to the Sunken Gardens Theater for the 28th year of A Taste of New Orleans. Enjoy a three-day festival that mixes family, fun, food and music for a truly memorable experience. Stroll through the grounds and enjoy Cajun and Creole delectables and scrumptious desserts that are indeed the tastiest food this side of the Mississippi…gumbo, red beans and rice, shrimp Creole, etouffee, shrimp kabobs, jambalaya, Cajun catfish, soft shell crab, crab au gratin, crab rolls, crawfish boil, boudin, beignets...are you hungry yet? Well you won’t be for long at A Taste of New Orleans, they even have Alligator tail on the menu! Head over to the amphitheater and experience the music. This year’s line up features everything from Dixieland jazz to Smooth Jazz and Zydeco, R&B and a brass band. Take the kiddos to the play area to burn off some energy. Feel free to bring a blanket and relax in the warm Texas sun as the kids play in the secured play area with balloons, face painting, a power slide, rock wall climbing, bungee-bounce and more. Advance admission tickets are available at all area H-E-B stores for $10. Admission at the gate is only $12 for adults, children 12 and under are free! For more information call 210-531-9464 and visit www.saza.org.

Fiesta de los Reyes at Market Square April 19th - April 28, various hours Market Square 514 West Commerce St Fiesta de los Reyes at Market Square, one of the largest free Fiesta celebrations, takes place in downtown at San Antonio’s historic Market Square, the center of Latino cultural celebrations. Fiesta de los Reyes at

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by Bjorn... Just Bjorn

rom the record- player to the Walkman; from the Walkman to the CD player; from the CD player to the mp3 player; and from the smartphone to the tablet, one thing is for certain—music is becoming increasingly ubiquitous in our culture. Alongside this trend to more compact music is the trend to amplify the sound’s punch into a high-quality eargasm. As headphones are the link from our listening device to our ears, they have garnered much attention and have undergone just as much of an evolution as music players. From the military drab of the early 1900s to the celebrityendorsed fashion statements of today, headphones have made a seemingly unlikely splash in the market. This tsunami of impacts is not without warrant; it makes sense. As headphones not only ensure that all sound is transferred directly to our ears, but also serve as a visible accoutrement to our overall style, it is no wonder that they have become a fashion statement. “In essence, headphones have become an extension of peoples’ personality, which means that consumers are increasingly willing to pay for certain brands,” said Lucky Twist, an analyst at GfK in the U.K. One of the first companies to realize the psychological self-reference of headphones, Koss, introduced Beatlephones in 1966: they were a huge hit. And why? Because people loved the Beatles and wanted to showcase their support for others to see.

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As celebrities set the fashion status-quo for consumers to follow in the footsteps of their idols, celebrity-endorsed headphones have set the pace for the headphone market. One can definitely see this trend in full splendor with the Monster-sponsored Beats by Dre. These headphones, endorsed by the notorious gangsta-architect of rap, hit the market just as hard as they hit the bass. Charging upwards of $300, Beats by Dre landed a lot of controversy as to whether the headphones, with low quality and embedding every song with a low bass, deserved the price. Well, considering annual sales hit the $500 million mark, that question is not relevant. Stocking bone-rattling bass with celebrity flare, the Beats by Dre have revolutionized the headphone industry from purely functional, low cost headphones to fashion-statement, high cost headphones. Dr. Dre, has laid down the blue print for other celebrities to follow: transforming the music industry once again. Lady Gaga, 50-cent, Ludacris, P-Diddy, RZA and Miles Davis have joined the ranks of Dre, hosting their own brand of stereo-headphones. To add to that list is Bob Marley, posthumously. I wouldn’t be surprised to see some Beethoven-sponsored headphones with the way the industry does things, even if he was deaf; it’s a fashion thing.

stores around the world, “Some of the world’s most famous fashion stores, such as Colette in Paris, I.T in Hong Kong and Isetan in Tokyo, have started selling high-end stereo headphones alongside designer clothes and jewelry” (WSJ, Grundberg). Even technophiles can’t stay away from the price hike for top-quality headphones. As music-listening now takes up anywhere from 1-4 hours of the day, tech-geeks want to ensure that their time is well-spent, by guaranteeing high quality. And that guarantee doesn’t come cheap. Market research firm IBISWorld projects that revenues for the headphone manufacturing industry will jump to $1.18 billion by 2016. With humble, utilitarian beginnings, headphones have made the quantum leap into the high-priced, flashy fashion industry. A strange jump; however, money is the ultimate creative inspiration, with the ability to transpose objects out of their original purpose into some new category altogether.

Indeed, one can walk around and see headphones prominently displayed around necks as a sort of urban-necklace as much as one sees the headphones used the old-fashioned way. This is an obvious marking of the progression from the functional devices they once were to the fashion-statements that headphones are today. As such, one can find headphones in the accessory section of select fashion boutiques and

Clockwise From Top Left: Diesel VEKTR; Bowers & Wilkins P5; Monster Diamond Tears - Edge™; Powerbeats by Dr. Dre™

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by Lisa Dante

A tide of fresh color washes over our city at this time of year. Easter, Spring Break, and Fiesta usher in vibrant Easter egg colors and delicate floral prints, from the conservative to the romantic, from colorful to whimsical. The brush strokes of many different hues can be seen everywhere. Simply put, nearly all of the collections this Spring radiate cheerful, upbeat attitude, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s still both fun and worthwhile to know what the fashion trends are for Spring 2013.

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THINK PINK Last year tangerine was everywhere, now it’s pink’s turn. You’ll see overly saturated, vivid hues of fuchsia to barely-there ballerina pinks. You can even pop a little pink eye shadow right above your eyelid crease, and your face will be instantly brightened.

Opposite Page: Pink studded heels available at Saks Fifth Avenue; This Page: Fusia maxi dress available at Dillards.

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LIGHT AS A CLOUD - LADY LIKE DRESSES One of the most popular items for Spring is ultra feminine dressing. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll see dresses in solids, stripes, florals and bold geometric prints. The main theme is somewhat tailored, classic, and simply very pretty. Silhouettes run the gamut from the ever popular pencil skirt, to the flowing, gathered skirts that are so flattering to most figure types.

This Page Clockwise from Top Left: Pink lace dress available at Dillards; Floral dress available at Dillards; Blue top and print pencil skirt available at Dillards.

AMAZING LACE Used as both accent and the main attraction, lace was spotted all over the Spring 2013 runways. Designers used everything from antique lace, high technology modern lace, beautiful tape lace and intricate Irish lace. The lace variations run the gamut from bold and edgy to light and innocent. I even saw a Prada purse made almost entirely of lace.

Fiesta dictates that this time of year is all about color, and the combinations are really unlimited,. You can go wild and mix and match, the brighter the better. The best combinations can be found on a color wheel. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m talking about complementary colors. Those are the colors that are opposite each other on the wheel. Examples are, orange and blue, or yellow and purple, and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget a stand out favorite, turquoise. It looks good with just about anything. I think maybe Spring fever is something we all might want to catch! Happy Spring, and of course Viva Fiesta!

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Give Yourself A Chance with a

good set up by Mike Vardeman

Golf is a very interesting game where people try to fix themselves backward. I have been teaching this wonderful game for 25 years and very little has changed. The best players in the world work on five fundamentals on a daily basis before even thinking about working on their swing. People who do not take a lesson or two when learning the game, or who are trying to improve their game, will soon find out that any little mistake in the set up will lead to mistakes in the golf swing. Let’s take a look at what I consider are the five fundamentals of a solid set up: 1. The grip controls the clubface and the path of the golf club. Years ago, legend Harvey Penick told me, “The number one reason people swing from an out to in swing path is because of a neutral or weak left-hand grip.” (For left-handed players, it’s the right-hand position.) A perfect example of how the grip affects the swing: when the crease between the index finger and thumb of the left hand points to the chin, we refer to that as a weak or neutral grip. This position of the left hand will cause the clubface to strike the golf ball open causing the ball to go to the right. The correct adjustment is to turn your left hand slightly more to the right so the crease points to your right shoulder. 2. Alignment can be tricky because although your eyes may know where the target is, the body’s alignment may not deliver the ball to the intended target. If you misalign yourself to the right, you will have to make an incorrect swing adjustment. If you misalign yourself to the left, the same thing happens and you will make incorrect swing adjustments. Alignment is a fundamental that determines how you swing the golf club and in what direction it travels. 3. Good posture allows you to turn your body correctly during the backswing and follow through. In a perfect world, you’d have a slight flex in your knees, the weight would be on the arches of your feet and your back would bend to about 45 degrees. Good posture gives you the opportunity to turn your shoulders on the backswing. A good shoulder turn will allow you to generate clubhead speed for power on the downswing.

4. Balance is one of the most important things we look at in the golf swing. Remember, the clubface is very small and the golf ball is very small -- any loss of balance makes it near impossible to hit the center of the clubface. Balance starts first in the set up and is maintained during the backswing and all the way to the finish. Learning to maintain good balance in the swing will enable you to find the middle of the clubface more often. Shots that are all over the clubface are a direct result of poor balance during the golf swing. 5. Ball Position is far too important to ignore and varies from person to person. It has a direct effect on the path of your swing: get the ball too far forward and it’s easy to get steep and start coming over the top; get the ball too far back, the club starts coming too far from the inside. Some people do better with the ball slightly forward and others do better with the ball slightly father back. Find out what’s best for you. In summary I would like to stress that a solid set up will give you the ability to improve day by day and week by week. Find a PGA Golf Professional in your area and learn what a good setup feels like and looks like and stick with it. The Academy at La Cantera provides customized programs for men and women, focusing specifically on a player’s particular needs. Individual and group instruction are available. The familyfriendly golf club can tailor a golf lesson toward children 8 to 15 years old. Depending on the clinic, golf instruction may focus on the fundamentals of putting, chipping, and full swing, as well as on-course play. Participants also get a lesson in golf etiquette, rules, and history of the game. The Academy features a 15-acre practice facility nestled in the Texas Hill Country with a double-ended tee, three putting greens, and two sand bunkers. It also offers the latest in video technology with three-dimensional motion analysis. A custom-designed learning center is complete with indoor hitting bay, covered tee areas and a spacious grass hitting area for both long and short game work..

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by Michele Longo O’Donnell and Mary Walker

he idea of adoption probably crosses the minds of every stable and loving person at some time or another in one’s life but for various reasons never gets acted upon. Perhaps you have heard stories of the difficulty of raising such a child. When a child has been so painfully treated and experienced such fear and confusion they may have developed patterns of behavior as a mechanism of defense. Often their little hearts are closed to affection, not trusting that it will still be there tomorrow. But “love is stronger than death” and I believe that the love that motivates you to want to reach out and save a life will soon win over the child’s trust. It is what every child wants… to trust that someone will care for them no matter what. Whatever our age, gender, race or nationality the need is identical and the solution is identical. People who have stepped up to the problem and adopted a child or children into their homes and hearts will always say that it was the single most rewarding thing that they had ever done. Why is that? Because to love is to live. We have all heard of positional and wealthy people who seem to “have it all” and yet we find them miserable and empty without love. People search for happiness in material gains, in prestigious positions and never find it there. But the unassuming folks who have learned the truth, that to love is to live, are those whose hearts are filled with purpose. We gain by giving. It has been a principle of life since man began. The more we “pour out” the more pours back to us in return. Here in the greater San Antonio area, including 27 surrounding counties, we have over 5,000 children in the care of Child Protective Services and over 42,000 children in the care of our great state of Texas. And the numbers are steadily climbing.

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Why is there a crisis? These children come into CPS care for a variety of reasons--the very nature of which is chaos and crisis, according to Mary Walker, DFPS Media Specialist. The biggest part of that crisis is neglect, a factor that many people don’t consider. Children who are malnourished, left home alone to fend for themselves at very young ages, children who are placed in very dangerous situations--they are all victims of neglect. It can be a mom who chooses to go out drinking instead of care for her children, or a mom who has no child care and risks leaving her child or children in a vehicle while she works to feed them. Sometimes, mental illness is involved. And sometimes, it is poverty beyond the level of which any child should be subjected. There is a fine line between poverty and neglect, a line that Child Protective Services workers must walk every day. “Through no fault of their own, children have become virtually homeless. When the risk from which they are removed is too great--when we know they may never be safe with their own parents in their own homes again--we have to restore, if you will, the family that they can no longer have. There is no doubt that we absolutely must do everything we can to find ‘forever’ homes for these children--all of them--from the newborn to the older teen about to age out of the system,” said Sherry Gomez, Regional Director of CPS . Why does it seem to be a never-ending situation? “Unfortunately, there are children coming into our system on a daily basis--again, through no fault of their own. From the drug endangered child to the baby abandoned at the local fire station to the children who must be removed from domestic violence situations in the middle of the

night. Child Protective Services must intervene--must get these children to a safe place and keep them away from harm. It happens, as we’ve already said, every day,” said Mary Walker, Media Specialist of CPS. For this critical reason, KENS 5 TV developed the “Are You My Family” campaign, in partnership with Alamo Toyota, Child Protective Services and concerned citizens intended to increase public awareness of the immense growing number of children who have been removed from their families for reasons of abuse and neglect. “Are You My Family” has also partnered with the Children’s Shelter of San Antonio to answer all your questions, to place you in the special care of a qualified child placement agency, and to remain in a “follow up” position to make sure the path is smooth and uncomplicated. Many of these children find themselves in as many as 6-8 foster care homes in one year. They are tossed from place to place, often living out of one suitcase with no place to call home and no one who they “belong” to. “It is our belief that if this situation were made aware to the general public these children would find families who they could actually belong to…forever,” said Bob McGann, Vice President & General Manager of KENS 5 TV. We have recently focused on those older teens because those who truly want a forever home have made us aware of what it would be like not to have one. In fact, they are the target of a long running Child Protective Services campaign called, ‘Why Not Me?” It is a question these older children ask all the time. Realizing that many people contemplating adoption will hone in on the cute, cuddly babies or the children six-years-

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old or younger, older children want to know ‘why not me?--why can’t I have a family, too?’ Some think older child adoptions are rare and these children may not want to be adopted. Too often, however, teens are faced with the uncertainty surrounding the concept of adoption, not the warm reality of a family willing to share their lives. Prospective adoptive parents or foster parents can help older children realize the rewards of being with permanent families. As young women preparing to someday marry, who will walk them down the aisle and give them away at their weddings? Who will be there for the birth of their children? For all who choose to go to college, where will they spend spring break and holidays? And then, there are the sibling groups. CPS tries hard to keep them together, but sometimes, that just isn’t possible. Families often are unable or unwilling to care for more than one child. But keeping them together, when doable, is imperative. They may have suffered the loss of a parent or parents, but at least when adopted together, they would still have each other. We must also not forget those children who are disproportionately represented in the system. Those are the predominantly African American and Hispanic children who come into the system at higher rates and linger in the system longer. African American children represent 29 percent of the children in our state’s care, even though African American children represent only 12 percent of the children in the state. Disproportionality

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is the term experts use to describe this overrepresentation and disparity in treatment. Many of us have heard stories of massive financial losses in attempting to adopt. Actually it costs less than $200.00! Yes, less than $200 to adopt a child right here in our city. The children receive Medicare/Medicaid until adulthood. They receive full scholarships to any Texas State college of their choice and many other state provided assistances along the way. The idea of huge monetary burden is a myth. What if I am single? What if I am divorced? What if I am retired? No matter. If your heart is open the child will find his/her way into your life and home. There is no social barrier, no racial barrier, and no financial barrier. Love is the requirement and the rest will follow. These wonderful partnerships would not have been available without the generous heart of John Toomey , owner of Alamo Toyota, and the Toomey family who freely offered the entire funding of the “Are You My Family” campaign. Thank you for the gift he and his family have offered to San Antonio’s forgotten children. His gift has brought hope to them all. For information about “Are You My Family” and the answers to all your questions about the adoption process, call “Are You My Family” at 210775-5225 or email us at areyoumyfamily@kens5.com

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by Jennifer Broome

It is a city where the glamour and elegance of its European roots blends with a Latin American flair and essence. Buenos Aires is a cosmopolitan city that intertwines old world elegance with vibrant modernism in its beautiful people, amazing architecture, outstanding open spaces and historical sites, and a plethora of incredible antique and artisan shops, boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. From the moment you step off the plane in Argentina, you will feel the love affair that Buenos Aires has always had with Western Europe. Just like the tango, the city will draw you in. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be mesmerized.

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Clockwise From Top Left: Alvear Palace Hotel, Cigar Bar at Alvear Palace Hotel, Chef Jean Paul

The Alvear Palace Hotel is the most luxurious hotel in Buenos Aires and one of the best hotels in the world. Located in the La Recoleta district, the Alvear Palace is in an elegant neighborhood surrounded by the best restaurants, antique shops, boutiques, and cultural centers the city has to offer. La Recoleta is known for its extensive parks and open spaces, wide avenues, luxurious classical style architecture, and close proximity to the main museums, cultural centers, and financial area. The elegant neighborhood has been dubbed, “the Paris of South America.” The accolades for the hotel are endless, including being ranked the #2 Reader’s Choice in South America in Conde Nast Traveler 2012 list of Best in the World and ranked #2 in Central and South American City Hotels in Travel + Leisure 2012 list of The World’s Greatest Hotels. It is the most award-winning hotel in Latin America. Originally built as a luxury hotel to accommodate an increasing number of European visitors, the Alvear Palace was transformed in 1932 into a hotel with the highest quality of elegance, luxury, and refinement. As soon as you enter the lobby, you will be surrounded by the elegance of Louis XIV and Louis XVI style furniture, ornate crystal chandeliers, walls decorated with gold leaf, and works of art by famous artists.

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The hotel combines European elegance and cutting edge technology while offering impeccable personalized care during your stay like the superb butler service offered to guest staying in the Deluxe Suites and Grand Suites. The antique art and Egyptian linens help set the suites a notch above any other accommodations in the city. Every detail of the 97 guest rooms and 100 suites exudes luxury, elegance, and perfection. Flower arrangements and fresh fruit baskets delivered daily and custom bath products by Hermes de Paris are some of the extra special touches every guest enjoys. The Palace rooms are decorated in imperial-style and Louis XVI furniture. The Junior Suites are decorated in a French style with warm colored fabrics. The Deluxe Suites have a bedroom and separate living room with decor including Louis XVI furniture and rich fabrics. The Grand Suites are spacious with French decor and elegant touches like bronze and crystal chandeliers and rich European fabrics. The spa holds the title of the best spa in the city. Begin your spa experience, by relaxing in a quiet area that will help awaken your senses. The wellness area features steam baths, saunas, pressure showers, ludic pool and relaxation rooms. The temperature and humidity in the sauna and steam baths help purify the skin and increase blood flow. The hydro-massage circuit and vitality pool will help you relax and forget the worries of

Clockwise From Top Left: Cementerio de la Recoleta, Governor Suite, Governor Suite bedroom, Wellness room, Dish by Chef Jean Paul

the outside world. With a circuit of different temperatures and water pressures, the carpet of pebbles on the sensations path gives you a relaxing yet stimulating walk. The fitness center is equipped with state-of-the-art cardiovascular and muscle-building equipment including Kinesis, which uses a cable system allowing for natural, three-dimensional movements while maximizing performance. If business takes you to Buenos Aires, the business center is more like an executive office suite away from your company. With the leather chairs, oversized wood desks, an executive boardroom, and the latest technology in the eight luxurious meeting rooms, you can get the major deal or big meeting done in style. The hotel also has eleven meeting rooms with capacity for 10 up to 800 people. Imagine the best buffet breakfast you have ever seen. That is what is served at L’Orangerie. Enjoy a spot of tea in the Jardin D’Hiver. The classic Alvear Tea is served every afternoon. Relax with your favorite cocktail or an incredible wine from one of the best wine selections in the world in the elegant Lobby Bar. The Cigar Bar offers an exclusive selection of cigars, top-tier distilled drinks, and the best chocolates in the world. For refined French cuisine, enjoy a memorable night at La Bourgogne. Chef Jean Paul Bondoux’s style of simplicity and tradition in cuisine and service will not disappoint. La Bourgogne is considered the best restaurant in Buenos

Aires and is the restaurant of a Relais & Châteaux Grand Chef. The historical site not to miss is the Cementerio de la Recoleta. It is a labyrinth of streets and narrow alleys. Originally built in 1822 as the burial place of freed slaves and proletariat, it became the burial place of choice of Argentina’s elite in the 1860s. It is one of the world’s greatest necropsies. This fabulous city of the dead is the burial place of presidents, military generals, patrician families of Argentina, and famous Argentinians like Eva Perón, the first Lady of Argentina from 1964 to 1952 and who’s life is portrayed in the musical and movie “Evita.” It is surrounded by a high wall that protects the mausoleums of granite and bronze. It is an eclectic and fascinating world of architectural styles. You could see grandiose Greek temples next to diminutive Egyptian pyramids along side of Art Nouveau vaults next to larger than life cenotaphs. The skyline of cupolas and marble sculptures of angels and crying mothers will simply take your breath away. The most beautiful tomb is that of Jose C. Paz, the founder of La Prenza newspaper. The depiction of an angel leaving its body and hoisting the soul toward Heaven is an allegory for the immortal spirit. Argentina’s love affair with Western Europe is passionately blended in its wine. Explore the world of Argentinean wines at Le Choix des Vins. The

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Clockwise From Left: Outside Cafe Tortoni, Monument at Cementerio de la Recoleta, Inside of Cafe Tortoni, Plaza Dorrego

wine shop is a couple of blocks from the Alvear Palace Hotel in La Recoleta. It is a wonderful place to introduce you to Argentina’s popular export and ship some wine back home. European ties run deep through the food in Buenos Aires. You will find some of the best Italian food in the world in the city. Sottovoce Restaurant is popular with local politicians, Italians, and those in the know of this restaurant that follows the Italian tradition of using first-rate ingredients and relatively simple preparation. Chef Alejo Waissman gained experience in the best kitchens in the world including the Ritz in Paris and will wow you with dishes like Olives Acolanas (olives stuffed with veal). The Bellini, made with the pulp of fresh white peaches and champagne is the speciality drink in the bar. Sottovoce means “whisper” in Italian and the restaurant is in La Recoleta. Enjoy great views of Plaza Dorrego while dining at Amici Miei Risorante. The homemade pasta is out of this world. Their bolognese sauce is the best I have ever eaten. Plaza Dorrengo is at the heart of San Telmo, considered the most romantic neighborhoods in Buenos Aires. It is one of the oldest and most picturesque squares in the city.In the 18th century, gauchos came to the square by wagon to sell their wares. Today it is sur-

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rounded by cafes, bars, artisan shops, and antique shops. It is famous for its bustling Feria de San Telmo. The Sunday antique market has been taking place in Plaza Dorrego since 1970. On Sundays, you will also find street performers on Calle Defensa. The music flows and tango sizzles on the cobblestone street. Let the music move you and dance away in a free tango lesson. Take a piece of San Telmo home with a sculpture or painting by Fanny Bergman, who is often working in her gallery. Leave a small piece of yourself at Plaza Dorrego Bar. The bar is the most famous of the bars that sprung up in the plaza in the 1930s. The wooden fixtures in the bar have been etched with graffiti. Feel free to etch in your name or initials like other patrons have done for years. Tango en el Tortoni will connect you with the soul of the city. Cafe Tortoni was the spot for composers and performers during the tango’s heyday in the 1920s. Tango shows are still held in the back room of Cafe Tortoni. It is the oldest and most celebrated tango club in the country. Nothing is more Argentinean than the tango. The dance’s origin dates back to the 1880s at La Boca’s Riachuelo riverbank. Like Buenos Aires, the dance is passionate, intense, and soulful. As you are drawn in to a passionate affair in the sensual moves of the tango, you fall in love with Buenos Aires.

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by Cathy Cardenas

“God allows us to experience the low points of life in order to teach us lessons that we could learn in no other way unless experienced through tears and the heart.” Unknown If you’ve never had a broken heart, then I’m thinking you must just not have a heart at all! I don’t think that any human being is able to dodge or avoid heartbreak and heartache in their lives. I’ve learned from my history of heartaches that these happen in our lives for a reason. I first want to share 5 different ways the heart can be broken in our lives. First: The heartache of losing a loved one due to death. I was not sure I had really understood this one until my brother passed away a few years ago and I’m still not sure I can find the words to describe the ache in my heart from this one. Those of you who have been through this will understand. The ache never goes away but with time it gets easier to accept the pain of the loss. Second: The heartache we cause ourselves because we can’t find a way to love and forgive ourselves. We all deserve to be happy and to be loved and it’s up to us to allow it. Whatever has happened in the past is in the past. We can’t heal until we forgive ourselves; no one is perfect so forgive yourself today! Third: The heartache of losing a dear friend or family due to turmoil or being betrayed. This can really break our hearts because these are the people we are usually closest to and losing them from your life is not easy. Especially when someone you cared about so much has hurt you and destroyed the trust you had for them. Sometimes in order to let our own hearts heal we must release toxic people, family, friendships and relationships from our lives. Its not always easy but sometimes, it’s what’s in our best interest. Fourth: The heart ache of LOVE! This is probably the one we most often think of and deal with so much in our lives. I first had my heart broken in the 3rd grade when the boy I liked did not feel the same. I think my heart was sad for a week, but then moved on very quickly. Sadly in our

lives today, we don’t rebound as quickly in adult love as we do when we are in the 3rd grade. We all want different things in our lives but there is one thing we all have in common—we are all seeking our soul mate and true love. When we are searching we often will open our heart wide open to except love and give ours away but unfortunately it’s not always accepted by another; that is when our fragile heart is vulnerable for the most pain. I’m 35 and still single so, I know how so many other single men and women feel out there who are constantly searching for that person who will be the love of your life. The biggest lesson I have learned from this journey is to be patient and have faith in God. Sometimes he has a much bigger plan for us that will take place on His schedule. “Sometimes God doesn’t give us what we want because we’re aiming too low. He won’t let us settle.” Trust in Him and have faith that He loves you and wants you to be happy. Too often we don’t exert enough faith and we end up settling for the first relationship that comes along even when we know it’s not right. From being single I have truly learned to love myself and become comfortable with being alone. I know that we don’t need a person to complete us but instead a person to add to the joy of our life. Fifth: Heartbreak caused from fear- This is sadly one that I personally relate to the most and have for so many years. Too often we build up so many walls and layers around our heart to ensure it will never be broken or hurt. But in reality we are creating heartache because we are not allowing ourselves to experience the greatest gift in the world, the Gift of Love! We have to have faith; let the walls come down and come what may. Sometimes the heart will be broken, but maybe, just maybe, you will find the one you have been waiting for. You will never know if you don’t let people in. Sometimes it takes heartbreak to open our eyes up to change what is needed in our lives— for our destiny may not always be our will. The key to truly overcoming these heartbreaks is to forgive. To forgive ourselves or forgive that person

who has broken your heart. Heartbreak is part of life—we will all experience it at one time or another and it’s important for us to go through this; without pain we can never feel happiness and joy. Embrace all the bad dates, bad friends, ex’s and those who have hurt you because they are part of helping you grow. Sometimes heartache is there to help us have compassion for others. Sometimes we may see a homeless person on the street and immediately our heart aches for them so we usually offer them money or a meal. This is where the ache in the heart is creating compassion. We must remember that God is almighty and can heal ANYTHING….even a broken heart. But we must have faith and give him the broken heart. I love the quote that says” Trust God by giving him your heart and he will place it in the hands of someone that deserves it.” I’ve discovered there is a difference between heartache and heartbreak. The break in the heart comes from it being broken. The ache comes from us allowing the pain to stay in it. It’s up to us if we will allow it to continue to ache or instead find a way to heal the heart with selflove or allowing another person to enter our lives and help heal it. If any of you out there think that you don’t deserve love, are not worthy of it or have ever given up on it...STOP! Look around you because love is everywhere waiting for all of us to accept and for others to receive. We see love everyday—it may not always be directly to us but we see it in kindness, in God’s love, in charity, our children, and our homes and in our communities. The best way to find love is to be love! Find ways today to forgive and heal your broken heart because without the pain and forgiveness we will never grow to become the people we were meant to be.

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DATE BOOK MARCH/APRIL

2013 COMEDY

Jim Gaffigan March 20 Majestic Theatre 224 East Houston Street www.majesticempire.com Spamalot March 24 Majestic Theatre 224 East Houston Street www.majesticempire.com George Lopez March 28-30 Majestic Theatre 224 East Houston Street www.majesticempire.com

210-226-3333

FAMILY Joffrey Ballet March 8 Lila Cockrell Theater 200 East Market St. www.ticketmaster.com

Super Why Live: You’ve Got the Power April 17 Majestic Theatre 224 East Houston Street 210-226-3333 www.majesticempire.com

MUSIC

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Willie Nelson March 11 Majestic Theatre 224 East Houston Street www.majesticempire.com

210-695-8827

Gruene Hall 1281 Gruene Road New Braunfels, Texas www.gruenehall.com

210-695-8827

Aaron Watson March 29 Gruene Hall 1281 Gruene Road New Braunfels, Texas www.gruenehall.com

210-226-3333

Merle Haggard March 14 Floore’s Country Store 14464 Old Bandera Road Helotes, Texas www.liveatfloores.com

830-606-1281

Billy Currington March 29 Cowboys Dance Hall 3030 NE Loop 410 at IH 35 800-745-3000 www.ticketmaster.com 210-226-3333

210-226-3333

800-745-3000

Disney on Ice: Rockin Ever After April 10-14 Alamodome 100 Montana Street 800-745-3000 www.ticketmaster.com

Robert Earl Keen March 9 Floore’s Country Store 14464 Old Bandera Road Helotes, Texas www.liveatfloores.com

Moody Blues March 12 Majestic Theatre 224 East Houston Street www.majesticempire.com

Yo Gabba Gabba! Live: Get the Sillies Out March 16 Majestic Theatre 224 East Houston Street 210-226-3333 www.majesticempire.com

Don Williams March 1 Majestic Theatre 224 East Houston Street www.majesticempire.com

Johnny Lee March 1 Floore’s Country Store 14464 Old Bandera Road Helotes, Texas www.liveatfloores.com

210-695-8827

Josh Abbott Band March 29 Floore’s Country Store 14464 Old Bandera Road Helotes, Texas www.liveatfloores.com Junior Brown March 30 Gruene Hall 1281 Gruene Road New Braunfels, Texas www.gruenehall.com

210-695-8827

830-606-1281

Roger Creager’s Texas Fiesta March 15-16 Gruene Hall 1281 Gruene Road 830-606-1281 New Braunfels, Texas www.gruenehall.com

Romeo Santos April 4 AT&T Center One AT&T Center Parkway www.ticketmaster.com

Gloriana March 16 Cowboys Dance Hall 3030 NE Loop 410 at IH 35 800-745-3000 www.ticketmaster.com

Asleep at the Wheel April 14 Gruene Hall 1281 Gruene Road New Braunfels, Texas www.gruenehall.com

Stoney LaRue March 22 Cowboys Dance Hall 3030 NE Loop 410 at IH 35 800-745-3000 www.ticketmaster.com

Carrie Underwood: The Blown Away Tour April 25 Freeman Coliseum 3201 East Houston St. 800-745-3000 www.ticketmaster.com

Jerry Jeff Walker’s Texas Bash March 24

800-745-3000

830-606-1281

DATE BOOK MARCH/APRIL

2013 Gypsy Kings April 26 Majestic Theatre 224 East Houston Street www.majesticempire.com

SPORTS 210-226-3333

Little Big Town: Tornado Tour April 28 Majestic Theatre 224 East Houston Street 210-226-3333 www.majesticempire.com

PERFORMING ARTS San Antonio Symphony presents Sounds of Simon & Garfunkel March 1-2 Laurie Auditorium 715 Stadium Drive 800-745-3000 www.ticketmaster.com San Antonio Symphony presents The Four Seasons March 22-23 Majestic Theatre 224 East Houston Street 210-226-3333 www.majesticempire.com Million Dollar Quartet April 2-7 Majestic Theatre 224 East Houston Street 210-226-3333 www.majesticempire.com Les Ballet Trockadero de Monte Carlo Aprill 11 Lila Cockrell Theater 200 East Market St. 800-745-3000 www.ticketmaster.com Shen Yun April 14-17 Lila Cockrell Theater 200 East Market St. www.ticketmaster.com

800-745-3000

San Antonio Symphony presents Fiesta Pops April 19-20 Majestic Theatre 224 East Houston Street 210-226-3333 www.majesticempire.com

San Antonio Spurs NBA Basketball Sacramento Kings March 1 Detroit Pistons March 3 Chicago Bulls March 6 Portland Trailblazers March 8 Oklahoma City Thunder March 13 Dallas Mavericks March 14 Cleveland Cavaliers March 16 Golden State Warriors March 20 Utah Jazz March 22 Denver Nuggets March 27 Los Angeles Clippers March 29 Miami Heat March 31 Orlando Magic April 3 Atlanta Hawks April 6 Sacramento Kings April 12 Minnesota Timberwolves April 17 AT&T Center One AT&T Center Parkway 210-444-5050 www.spurs.com San Antonio Rampage AHL Hockey Chicago Wolves March 2 Oklahoma City Barons March 10 Houston Aeros March 15 Abbotsford Heat March 17 Oklahoma City Barons March 23 Rochester Americans March 24 Grand Rapids Griffins March 28 Chicago Wolves April 2 Hamilton Bull Dogs April 4 Texas Stars April 7 Texas Stars April 14 Texas Stars April 16 Rockford IceHogs April 19 Houston Aeros April 20 AT&T Center One AT&T Center Parkway 210-444-5050 www.sarampage.com TNA Wrestling Lockdown PPV March 10 Alamodome 100 Montana Street 800-745-3000 www.ticketmaster.com San Antonio Talons AFL Football San Jose SaberCats March 23 Chicago Rush April 5 Alamodome 100 Montana Street 800-745-3000 www.ticketmaster.com

Texas Rangers Vs San Diego Padres March 29-30 Alamodome 100 Montana Street 800-745-3000 www.ticketmaster.com 2013 Moto Grand Prix April 19-21 Circuit of the Americas 9201 Circuit of the Americas Blvd 512-301-6600 Austin, TX 78617 circuitofhteamericas.com

LOCAL FLAVOR Spring Jazz at the Falls March 2 - April 6 Vincent Ingala, March 2 Beverly Houston March 7 Sergio Leal & Zamar March 14 PM Soul March 21 The Brew March 28 Euge Groove April 6 The Shops at La Cantera 210-822-9555 15900 La Cantera Pkwy www.theshopsatlacantera.com Easter Bunny March 6-30 Mon-Sat 10am-8pm Sun 12pm-6pm North Star Mall 7400 San Pedro www.northstarmall.com

210-340-6627

George Strait Team Roping Classic March 8-9 San Antonio Rose Palace 25665 Boerne Stage Road 210-698-3300 Remembering The Alamo Weekend March 9-10 Alamo Plaza 210-225-1391 www.sanantoniolivinghistory.org Luminaria 2013 March 9 Downtown San Antonio www.luminariasa.org

210-260-5678

2nd Saturday Art & Wine March 9 Galleries throughout Boerne 8 30-833-0621 www,secondsaturdayartand wine.com

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DATE BOOK MARCH/APRIL

2013

Boerne Market Days March 9-10 Main Plaza 100 North Main 210-844-8193 www.boernemarketdays.com Kendall County Outdoor Family Fair March 16 Main Plaza 100 North Main 830-249-9511 www.boerne-tx.gov/outdoorfamilyfair Come & Taste It March 21 & April 18 The third Thursday of each month The Grapevine 1612 Hunter Rd. 830-606-0093 New Braunfels, TX North Star Gives March 21 North Star Mall/ Saks Fifth Ave. Wing 7400 San Pedro www.northstarmall.com

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Easter Egg Hunt March 23 Boerne City Lake Park 1 City Lake Road 830-249-9511 www.boernemarketdays.com Culinaria 5K Wine & Beer Run 2013 March 23 The Shops at La Cantera 210-822-9555 15900 La Cantera Pkwy www.culinariasa.org Boerne Wild West Days April 6 10am-5pm Enchanted Springs Ranch 242 Hwy 46 West 830-249-8222 Boerne, TX 78006 www.boernewildwestday.com Annual Parade of Artists April 12-14 Galleries throughout Boerne 830-816-2345 www,boerneart.com

Hill Country Holler April 12-14 Enchanted Springs Ranch 242 Hwy 46 West 830-249-8222 Boerne, TX www.hillcountryholler.com 2nd Saturday Art & Wine April 13 Galleries throughout Boerne 830-833-0621 www,secondsaturdayartand wine.com Boerne Market Days April 13-14 Main Plaza 100 North Main 210-844-8193 www.boernemarketdays.com Farmers Market at the Cibolo Saturdays 33 Herff Road 210-854-1116 www.hillcountryfarmersmarket.com

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