A Monthly Publication Directly Mailed to the residents of Timberwood Park, Canyon Springs, Lookout Canyon, Riata Ranch and surrounding areas Postal Customer
April 2014 Issue
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2/8/13 4:52 PM www.welcomehomesa.com
April 2014 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261
New to the Area?
Our Family
If you are new to the area, we’d like to extend a special welcome with a free gift filled with maps, magazines, local business coupons and info to help you get settled in your community.
u u u u u u
Caring for Yours
Saturday Urgent Care: 10 AM – Noon Patients 2 Years & Up Wellness Care & Preventive Medicine Acute Illness & Chronic Disease Care Our Doctors Make Daily Hospital Rounds Physicals, Pap Smears, Well Child Exams
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Did you know that there are
enefits that can help VA Boffset the cost of living in a
retirement community or assisted living?
Vision Source is the nation’s premier network of independent doctors of optometry with more than 4,000 doctors in over 2,000 practices across the United States and Canada. Each Vision Source practice is dedicated to maintaining the special relationship between a patient and his or her family eye doctor. Decisions regarding your eye health and vision correction are made by your Vision Source doctor based upon what’s best for your continued good vision. We are proud of our team and we emphasize the importance of customer service with every encounter.
Dr. Monica Allison Vision Source Stone Oak
an informational session by the Veteran’s Administration experts to find out what benefits are available to you.
Tuesday, April 29th, 2014 at 2:00pm 20500 Huebner Road San Antonio, Texas 78258
Full Service Apartments, Assisted Living and Neighborhood of Homes
(210) 209-8956
RSVP to by Sunday, April 27th
Services Provided:
• Pre & post-op LASIK care • Contact Lenses of all designs, including bifocals • Prescription Eyewear for fashion, function or safety & sports eyewear • Urgent Medical Eye Care • Dry Eye & Ocular Allergy Treatment • Corneal Molding • FREE InfantSee Exams for children under 12 months of age
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Refreshments Served
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April 2014 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261
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Lic. #100102
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Happy Easter
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YOUR COM MUNIT Y NE W SPAPER SINCE 2001
from
Welcome Home Newspaper would like to thank you for having had the privilege of serving you for 13 years as your local newspaper that shines a spotlight on the GOOD news in life, including the accomplishments of our amazing youth and truly inspirational stories about our residents and our local businesses that comprise the heart of our community. We publish 5 different newspapers covering northern San Antonio that are directly mailed to over 60,000 households and businesses as well as rack distribution at local businesses.
For Advertising Info Please Call 210.348.8233 or Visit Our Website www.WelcomeHomeSA .com 4
www.welcomehomesa.com
April 2014 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261
Note From The Publisher
Viva Fiesta!
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pring has arrived! It’s the time of year when we begin spring-cleaning, sprucing up our yards, firing those grills up and planning for our summer. This is when we all start to find time to get outside and enjoy the perfect temperatures in our wonderful city. Inside this April issue you will find many ways to fill your calendar with great things to do here in our community. We are once again having our Mothers Day Tribute, celebrating all the wonderful moms in our community. Please have your written submissions sent to us by April 12th. Look for our email notifications for details. April is the month when we celebrate Fiesta festivities all over San Antonio. At Welcome Home, we are especially excited for the highly anticipated event, A Taste of the Northside, which we are honored to sponsor once again. The proceeds from this event benefit the Brighton Center, one of our community’s greatest foundations benefiting our local children. We have three children from Brighton Center featured on our cover, along with this year’s Queen of the Vine, Natalie Pfeiffer. Brighton Center’s A Taste of the Northside will be held at The Club At Sonterra again this year. We hope you stop by Welcome Home’s booth to say hello to our staff and have your photo taken on our Welcome Home front cover. Be ready to channel your inner celebrity with our fun, “make your own cover photo” feature, where you can pose with the Fiesta props we will be providing! All the photos will be posted on our website at www. welcomehomesa.com after the event. We look forward to seeing your best – and
funniest - photos! For more about A Taste of the Northside and other popular Fiesta events, continue reading on page 12. As avid Spurs fans, we are so proud of how our team is doing as they approach the end of the regular season. This could be a year where we “go all the way!” If you have never been to a game (or it’s been a while) this is a great opportunity to share that exciting experience with your extended San Antonio family. GO SPURS GO!! The end of the school year is quickly approaching and we are busy processing all of our SOBA scholarship applications. Thank you to all of the talented students who submitted! This is one of our most treasured moments of the year, when we are able to give back to those young people in our community who have worked so hard to achieve greatness in their academic endeavors. We will be announcing our eight scholarship winners on May 28 at our Speed Networking event. On behalf of myself and the staff at Welcome Home, thank you for your continued readership and support! Remember, if you have good news to share, we want to give you a place in our pages to do so. Welcome Home continues its legacy thanks to all of our readers who support the businesses who make this paper possible. Let them know you saw them in Welcome Home, YOUR community newspaper.
20770 Hwy. 281 N. Suite 108-149 San Antonio, Texas 78258
(210) 348-8233 • Fax: (210) 497-7342 Article Submissions: articles@welcomehomesa.com Ad Inquiries Email: ads@welcomehomesa.com www.welcomehomesa.com
Directly Mailed To Over 60,000 Households & Businesses in 78232, 78248, 78255, 78256, 78257, 78258, 78259, 78260, & 78261 Zip Codes. Plus, 20,000 in Rack Distribution.
Welcome Home newspaper assumes no liability in advertising other than correction and reinsertion of like-size ad at no additional cost to our advertiser. The opinions stated by the writers or the information printed from other sources do not necessarily depict those of the publisher or advertisers. No liability is assumed. Welcome Home newspaper will not knowingly publish any advertisement which is illegal or misleading to its readers. All copy and type arrangements are subject to approval by the publisher. All stories and photos submitted become property of Welcome Home Editorial and Advertising content of Welcome Home newspaper is protected by the U.S. copyright law. Unauthorized use is prohibited. Publisher Russell Groomer
Production/Graphic Design Marie Ferrante
Director Of Production Kristin Oliver
Administrative Assistant Julia Wickwire Sierra Hernandez
Managing Editor Amanda Burris Office Manager Chasity Furse Writer/Copy Editors Ben Spicer Kimberly Rodriguez
Distribution Israel Vazquez Contributing Photographers Chasity Furse Jennifer Mancha Staff Writers Debby Seguin Calvin Speer
April 2014 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261
Sales Representatives Patrice Long Tiffany Gailan Kathy Duguay Contributing Writers Laura Hernandez Aplin Jason Gordon Sandi Mitchell Vincent Quidachay Kathy Reynolds Sam Salas Glen Turney
You Are Invited 12th Annual SOBA Business Expo Y
ou are invited to sample cuisine from local restaurants while learning all about what approximately 100 local businesses have to offer at the 12th Annual SOBA Business Expo. Date: Thursday, April 24, 2014 Time: 5:30 pm – 8:00 pm Place: Reagan High School Cafeteria 19000 Ronald Reagan Drive Cost: FREE
Performa
Las Lomances by: s Choir and Reagan JR OTC
You will also be able to purchase raffle tickets for your chance to WIN gift certificates, gift baskets and other donated items or services from local businesses in the many prize drawings done throughout the evening. Remember, SOBA designates all funds raised from the expo to provide scholarships for graduating seniors at Johnson and Reagan High Schools. S
Ronald Reagan H.S.
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Stone Oak Business Association
Lady Bird JOHNSON H.S.
More Info: (210)348-8233 • e-mail: soba@satx.rr.com www.StoneOakBusiness.com
The Welcome Home Community Newspaper has had the privilege of serving the community for 11 years as one of the few local papers that shines a spotlight on the good things in life – the accomplishments of our amazing youth, inspirational stories and the residents and local businesses that comprise the heart of our area. With five different papers covering northern San Antonio, Welcome Home is directly mailed to over 60,000 households and businesses as well as rack distribution.
How To Submit Articles • We work a month in advance so submit by the given deadline (ex: if you submit in January it will be for the February edition) • Like us on Facebook or let us know if you would like to be put on our email list that will notify you of each deadline
What To Submit
• Email articles to: articles@welcomehomesa.com
• News tips or story ideas that one of our writers can turn into a story
• Or submit articles to our website at: www.welcomehomesa.com/submit-a-story
• Announcements (births, engagements, weddings, anniversaries and grand openings) • Community, School, and Sports News • Upcoming events *Always submit photos with your submissions!
Welcome Home Community Newspaper is pleased to offer this free service to the community. Upon submission of a story idea or photo, you give Welcome Home the right to use that submission without compensation. By submitting to Welcome Home, you guarantee that your material is sent with the express consent of the owner, and that its contents are non-proprietary and non-confidential. We cannot guarantee all submissions will be published. Welcome Home is under no obligation to use any idea, photo or article submitted. We reserve the right to edit or alter submissions for conciseness and grammar as needed and may need to prioritize certain events for any reason before publication.
www.welcomehomesa.com
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On The Cover By Kimberly M. Rodriguez hen you think royalty, most think beauty and vanity. But when it comes to A Taste of the Northside’s royalty, there is more than just that. Fundraising is the most integral part in being crowned queen. This month, Welcome Home had the opportunity to highlight A Taste of the Northside, an official Fiesta® event, and feature Brighton Center’s 2014 Queen of the Vine, Natalie Pfeiffer. This year’s reigning queen worked tremendously hard to fundraise more than $200,000 for the Brighton Center. Her outstanding efforts ultimately broke the records of previous queens. All fundraising proceeds will benefit Brighton Center, which provides Photo Credit: Chasity Furse family and community education and developmental services to children, birth Natalie Pfeiffer, 2014 Queen Of The Vine, with her kids and to age 22, with disabilities or delays children from the Brighton center. empowering them to achieve their will reign over event ensuring that the VIP individual potential making them successful lounge named in her honor has only the best in every community. food, drinks and music this official Fiesta® Pfeiffer will represent A Taste of the event has to offer. Northside during its fifteenth annual event To learn more about Pfeiffer’s fundraising to be held on Wednesday, April 23 at the efforts and for information about A Taste of Brighton Center. The Queen of the Vine the Northside, turn to page 13.
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Family Life
Spectacular Smiles, Superior Service!
If Nature Calls, DON’T Answer! By Debby Seguin
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t all started with an episode of “Little House on the Prairie.” The family had to camp under the stars and we all thought that camping looked like fun. Oh, if only you could edit real life like a movie! You could start by cutting the two weeks of preparation for a two-night stay. At home, we tend to take things like bandaids, foot spray, Q-tips, food for five, paper towels, lighter fluid, potable water, wash rags, towels, and clothing for unknown temperature ranges, for granted. Taking it all with you is whole other story. We packed and piled, and piled and packed, everything in the dining room. I looked at all the stuff and while calculating the cost of a mid-size U-Haul, thought, “Heck, why not just stay here and go mountain climbing?” We could also edit personality styles. Mine is the “figure it out as you go” personality, Agility
Herding
Obedience
Boarding
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Dr. Bloyce Britton 7700 Broadway, Suite 100-B San Antonio, TX 78209
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Dr. Bloyce Britton & Dr. Tyler Ferris 1130 E. Sonterra Blvd., Suite 100 San Antonio, TX 78258
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which hubby calls scatterbrained, whereas I prefer the more positive “creative freespirit,” which is normally very attractive until you get to the campsite and everyone starts demanding clean underwear and food of all things. My husband, whom I refer to as “Germ Guy,” although he prefers the more positive “hygienically perceptive,” (which is normally attractive until you are forced to sterilize the weenie fork in between marshmallows), has just begun his inventory list of various disinfectants, bug sprays, Ebola vaccine and tsetse fly netting. I am in the car with the engine running while he has barely started alphabetizing his vitamin and herb supplements into his compartmentalized container (necessary lest we succumb to vitamin deficiency on our 48 hour diet of s’mores and lukewarm weenies). Lastly, we could edit out the unlimited variety of crawly creatures, which either buzz, sting or eat everything except concrete. I own a “sounds of nature” CD that features tranquil sounds of rushing water and a variety of birdsong, which is very relaxing. But at 5 a.m., real birdsong sounds more like a college kegger, which I am in no mood for after a midnight battle with a tent flap sporting an attitude. Despite these “edits,” there are some things I would leave in: Bacon frying in the crisp, morning air, our kids playing Frisbee and fishing down by the lake instead of watching TV, my husband COOKING (oh, I mean “grilling”), and not thinking once about bills or chores or how we are going to pay for college. Come to think of it, we may go camping again real soon… Debby Seguin can be reached at writewell62@yahooI’llnevercampagain. com
April 2014 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261
Veteran’s Benefits Can Help Pay Living Expenses By Michelle Houriet, Executive Director Independence Hill Retirement Resort Community (210) 209-8956 f you are an American wartime Veteran or also provide assistance for those who have a a surviving spouse, you could be entitled need for personal in-home care. Numerous to the Veteran’s Aid and Attendance residents have mentioned how this benefit benefit. This benefit is paid in addition to the has allowed them to continue to live monthly pension. It is available to individuals independently while giving them the extra who may require assistance with various help they now need. activities of daily living (to include meal Here’s what the daughter of an preparation or medication monitoring), who Independence Hill Resident said, “This was live in a full service retirement community, a tremendous help financially for my mother. assisted living community, personal care It has allowed her to have the extra money home, or skilled nursing facility. This could from this benefit over and above her pension
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and social security income. It had been a blessing to get her in to Independence Hill Assisted Living several years ago when she decided that she no longer wanted to live alone. Mom has improved so much under their care, that she will be now be moving into their independent living community. Her Veterans Aid and Attendance benefit will follow her and continue to provide her this financial help.” This benefit that is administered by the VA, is one of the most misunderstood today. There are veterans and spouses that have been told that they do not qualify to receive this, when in fact they do. We have referred many seniors to the Veteran’s Administration experts who have helped them understand the qualifications and processes needed to apply for and receive this amazing and well deserved benefit. They will also analyze individual qualifications and direct people
to other benefits that could possibly be an even better solution. Independence Hill will be hosting an informational session with the Veteran’s Administration Staff at 2 p.m. on April 29 at 20500 Huebner Rd. They will discuss this benefit and others that could help with retirement living expenses. Please call (210) 209-8956 by April 27 to RSVP. At Independence Hill we are all about keeping our residents as informed as possible so they may enjoy their independence in comfort for as long as possible. Come by for a tour so you too can personally experience the difference. Knowledge is Power! Independence Hill Retirement Resort Community is located at 20450 Huebner Rd., San Antonio, TX 78258. For more information, call (210) 209-8956 or visit www.independencehill.com.
Bulverde/Spring Branch Library News By Sam Salas, Librarian Bulverde/Spring Branch Library (830) 438-4864 he Bulverde/Spring Branch Library will offer more programs for both children and adults throughout the month of April. The April Gardening Series Program will present “Learn About Bats! Creatures of the Night” on Thursday, April 3 at 10:30 a.m. The guest speaker will be Fran Hutchins, Bracken Bat Cave Preserve Director with Bat Conservation International. Learn all about bats and the myths that follow them around. Hutchins will discuss why bats are so important to a healthy planet. Find out
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how a bat house can attract bats to your garden. This program is worth 1.5 CE hours for CMG members. For additional information, please contact Karen Carlson at karcar@satx.rr.com. The 2014 edition of Great Decisions will continue on Thursday evenings from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Great Decisions is America’s largest discussion program on world affairs. The program model involves reading the Great Decisions Briefing Book, watching the DVD and meeting in a Discussion Group to discuss the most critical global issues facing America today. Topics for the month of April will be “Energy Independence” on April 3; “Food and Climate” on April 10; “China’s Foreign Policy” on April 17;
JOIN US THIS EASTER
and “U.S. Trade Policy” on April 24. For more information email Judith Martin at Jmartin195@Juno.com. Refreshments will be offered at 5:45 p.m. Children can cultivate their knowledge of trees and plants with Park Ranger Craig Hensley at the Young Naturalists Story Hour on Wednesday, April 23 at 3:30 p.m. Kids will learn about native Texas plants through stories and hands-on activities. This program is for children grades K-3rd. Registration is required and can be done online by visiting the library’s website at www.bsblibrary.org. For more information on this and other programs please call 830438-4864.
Thurs, April 17 Maundy Thursday Communion Service @ 7 pm Fri, April 18 Good Friday Service of Darkness @ 7 pm
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K9 Corner By Catherine Laria K9 Country Club (830) 980-8476
Spring Time Is Prep Time
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ith warmer weather upon us, spring is a great time to prepare your pet for what is to come. Here are a few tips that will help you to prepare your pet for some fun, and safety, in the sun! Starting with your yard, if you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors, be sure to plant wisely. Last month, we listed plants that could be dangerous or deadly to your pet.
Also, brushing your dog regularly can help you to discover any foreign objects they may have picked up that can cause major problems such as foxtails and cactus. Be sure to check between their toes. In addition, remember the pavement can become extremely hot and can burn their paw pads. You can protect their feet with booties or adjust the time of day you take them for their long walks. Begin conditioning your dog to the changing climate before the intense summer heat arrives. Consider keeping a small kiddie
pool in the back yard for a quick cool down in case of an unexpected heat surge. If you know you are taking a big trip this summer, be sure to book your kennel space early. Make sure to get ALL of your pet’s vaccinations updated. You don’t want to wait on doing this. Some kennels require a grace period after expired shots are given before they will board your pet. If your dog has never boarded before and you are worried how they will react, we encourage you to visit the boarding kennel with your dog before a long stay. You should meet the staff and get all of your questions answered so that there are no surprises during the hustle and bustle of trying to get out of town on drop-off day. I highly recommend trying doggie day care to get your pet familiar to the new surroundings and staff. Boarding can be
stressful, no matter how professional the facility is, for some dogs. This gives them the chance to love where they are going so both you and your best friend will be comfortable during your time apart. To find more tips on how to keep your pet safe in the upcoming months, please visit our website at www.k9countryclub.net. You can also watch our recent dock diving adventures at the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo, check out the new schedule of classes, AND read about the newest arrival of Whirlwind Border Collies! So much is happening this spring, you won’t want to miss it! K9 Country Club is located at 31305 Oak View, Bulverde TX 78163. For more information, call (830) 980-8476 or visit www.k9countryclub.net.a
CSES Assistant Principal Visits Orphans Submitted By Jason Gordon lear Springs Elementary assistant principal Lori McDonald traveled to Africa with a group called “Visiting Orphans.” “We traveled to Rwanda and Ethiopia and visited five orphans/schools, one AIDS hospital, and did several home visits,” McDonald said. “The main purpose of our trip was to simply support the women and children we met in any way we could. We did art projects, played games, danced, and most importantly, showed them love. I saw children and women living in the most horrendous conditions, but they were also some of the most joyful people I have ever met.” McDonald said one of her best moments came in Rwanda where she got to meet the little girl she is sponsoring. “Her name is Alice and she is six years old,” McDonald said. “At first she was very shy but she started to warm up to me when
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I gave her the gifts I bought her. One of the gifts was a Clear Spring Elementary T-shirt so she is an honorary CSES Stallion now. It broke my heart to say goodbye to her, but I will forever treasure the connection we made despite not speaking the same language.” McDonald wanted to turn this into an educational experience for the students at Clear Spring Elementary. During morning announcements before her trip, she shared some facts about Rwanda and Ethiopia, and also about Alice. After a money drive at the campus, more than $500 was raised at Clear Spring Elementary, which went toward 1,750 meals purchased for the women and children McDonald met on her trip. “I also made video messages from our students at Clear Spring Elementary to share with the children in Africa,” McDonald said. “The kids in Africa were so excited to see the videos. I also brought video messages
Chips N’ Salsa: Fiesta 2014 Special To Welcome Home A Youth is excited to announce their 2014 Chips N’ Salsa – an Official Fiesta San Antonio Event benefiting SA Youth. The event will be held at the El Tropicano Riverwalk Hotel Saturday, April 12 at 7 p.m. Come join a night of Chips N’ Salsa Royalty, High Roller Casino fun, Salsa dancing, VIP Room, appetizers, drinks and more! This fun filled Fiesta event has something for everyone. Try your luck at one of the many casino games tables, SA Youth is hosting their 2014 Chips N’ Salsa Fiesta benefit dance to the sounds of the live Latin event on April 12. Since its inception, SA youth has helped more band, mingle with Fiesta Royalty than 64,000 youths in high-risk areas. or gain access to the exclusive VIP extracurricular learning experiences and room. Don’t forget to peruse our dazzling improve social skills. Participating youth silent auction, all while enjoying appetizers get the tools and opportunities they need to and drinks for a great cause! become responsible adults. Since its inception, SA Youth has helped All proceeds from the Chips N’ Salsa more than 64,000 youths ranging from five Event will support SA Youth programs. to 24 years. SA Youth works to develop the Your $50 ticket includes: admission, character, strengths, talents and skills of San appetizers, entertainment, the Chips N Salsa Antonio’s high-risk urban youth through medal and $500 in casino chips. VIP tickets fun, safe experiences, positive learning are $100 and include: general admission & environments and holistic programs that admittance to the exclusive VIP Area with inspire each individual to fulfill his or her unlimited specialty drinks. potential personally and in the community. For more information visit the website SA Youth programs help prevent and reduce www.ChipsNSalsaFiesta.com or call at negative and delinquent behavior, improve 210-223-3131 ext. 207. academic skills, increase participation in
from the kids I met in Africa back to our students at CSES.” McDonald said her overall experience was both powerful and educational. She also shared a Powerpoint, which included photos of her trip to Africa with students at CSES. “Our teachers told me all of the students were so engrossed in the pictures and stories,” McDonald said. “They had so many questions for me and some of the younger students hugged me and thanked me for helping the kids in Africa. The best reaction, though, came from a first grade student who told me how proud he was that he helped feed some of the orphans. Overall, I think it turned into a great learning experience for everyone and I was so excited to be able to help kids half a world apart make a connection.”
Lori McDonald with one of the many children she met during her trip to Africa.
SVHS Navy JROTC Competes At Championships
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Smithson Valley Navy JROTC cadets placed fifth in the Navy JROTC State Championships.
Submitted By Vincent Quidachay he Navy JROTC Unit at Smithson Valley High School sent 42 cadets to Texas A&M University to compete in the Navy JROTC State Championships on February 21 and 22. The teams ended up placing fifth out of 17 teams that were competing for a national bid. The Smithson Valley NJROTC Academics Team took second place overall, and Cadet Lieutenant Samantha Frank took home individual honors by performing 60 push-ups to a military cadence tape. The cadets competed in academics on
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www.welcomehomesa.com
Friday, taking a 50 question Naval Science Exam, and then competed in a physical fitness competition consisting of push-ups, sit-ups and a 16x100 yard relay race. On Saturday, the teams competed in Personnel Inspection (uniform appearance and military knowledge), Color Guard Competition, Armed Drill Team and Unarmed Drill Team. “Just qualifying for State is a big deal,” said Commander (Retired) Vince Quidachay, SVHS instructor. “But placing fifth made us all feel like our hard work paid off.”
April 2014 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261
educating for eternity
Bracken Christian School By Amanda Burris
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nsuring your child gets the best education and is prepared for college is one of the top priorities many parents have. At Bracken Christian School, students not only graduate with a top-flight education, but they also learn to build their lives on a Christian foundation that will ultimately guide them to a successful future.Ensuring your child gets the best education and is prepared for college is one of the top priorities many parents have. At Bracken Christian School, students not only graduate with a topflight education, but they also learn to build their lives on a Christian foundation that will ultimately guide them to a successful future. In 1982, Betty Knight started a kindergarten class out of her home which eventually grew and went on to be hosted by Bulverde Baptist Church. It wasn’t until 1985 when Sam Bracken donated new land and buildings that the growing school moved to its current location and was renamed Bracken Christian School. Bracken Christian School seeks to enrich the lives of Pre-K 4 through 12th grade students with a loving faculty and staff, and a rigorous curriculum that is taught from a Biblical worldview. “Every class that we teach, every chapel, and every event is taught and run through a Biblical worldview,” said Bracken Christian School’s Principal/Administrator Jason Detty. “There is an intentional effort every day to love and honor God and His Word, and to love one another.” Besides helping students graduate with the wisdom and ability to make a positive impact on their culture for Christ, the academic side of Bracken Christian School opens doors for their dedicated students. Many have gone on to top colleges. “In the past 20 years, 100% of our graduates have been accepted to college, with three students choosing to enter military service instead,” Detty said. He went on to explain that the three who decided not to attend college were prepared do so, but had decided to forgo college in order to serve their country by joining the military. Along with such an outstanding tradition of success, Bracken Christian School has many features that both parents and students enjoy. Where public schools have larger campuses and class sizes, Bracken Christian School has more of an intimate feel, which includes smaller class sizes that allow the students to have beneficial interactions with their teachers and peers. One such means of interaction is the school’s SALT program (Serving and Leading Together). The SALT program is a student mentoring program designed for older students to mentor younger students. Many SALT class activities take place throughout the year, which are often the highlights of the year for many students. “The SALT program is an opportunity for students to learn how love one another and to be a mentor to a younger generation,” Detty explains. Surrounded by other students with similar views on life,
the students are continually challenged and learn from a curriculum that has not eased up over the years. Starting in elementary school, the students go through a phonics-based, heavy reading Christian curriculum that places an emphasis on math and also teaches cursive writing – something that is often not seen in public schools any longer but has proven to be successful.
April 2014 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261
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As students advance in their education, Bracken Christian School offers all of the regular courses any other school has including AP, dual credit and honors courses. One of the unique opportunities that the seniors get to take part in is through their anatomy and physiology course. While this course is a standard at most high schools, what Bracken Christian School provides is the chance to use the Bulverde/ Spring Branch EMS Cadaver Lab. They go regularly as part of the course and get to work in an environment that rivals some medical schools. “In addition to that,” Detty explained, “we also offer an EMT course through the Bulverde/Spring Branch EMS. Students who choose to go through that course can graduate high school with an EMT certification.” For students looking to stay active and involved, Bracken Christian School also has an athletic program that has seen 10 state championships in the last 16 years in various sports. Their program, which exists as a guide to young people to better understand their relationship with Jesus Christ, consists of cheerleading, volleyball, cross country, track and field, golf, tennis, basketball and football. Yearbook, ceremics, photography, as well as middle and high school praise team electives are also offered. Other ways that the students stay involved is through their local community service days. Through community service, local witnessing field trips, and area mission trips, Bracken Christian School encourages students to engage in causes greater than themselves. Bracken Christian School aims to enhance the lives of their students through academics, a strong spiritual focus, and a sense of belonging to a larger family of parents who seek a Christian education for their children. With the support
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In the past 20 years, 100% of our graduates have been accepted to college, with three students choosing to enter military service instead,” – Jason Detty Bracken Christian School’s Principal/Administrator
of Christian families and a dedicated faculty, administrative and support staff, everyone works to prepare each student for all that they may encounter in college and in life. “The thing that I love about what I do is I get to use the giftedness that God has given me and to serve as a leader,” Detty said. “It is a privilege to assist staff members and parents in the effort to help every student become all that God has designed to be.” The school itself looks to grow by reaching out to more families interested in providing a Christian education for their children. Prospective students are always welcomed to take tours or shadow (going through a day as a student and sitting through class). As this beautiful school in a country setting aims to enhance the lives of many more students to come, Detty hopes to help fulfill this goal by expanding their reach and hopefully beginning a bus route to the Stone Oak area. Through their legacy of excellence in academics paired with their relationship with Christ, Bracken Christian School is a discipleship school that seeks to educate students not just for today, but for eternity. For more information on the school, how to take a tour or tuition costs, visit their website.
Bracken Christian School 670 Old Boerne Rd. 830-438-3211 www.brackenchristian.com 9
Spring Branch Students View Geographical Showcase Submitted By Jason Gordon arah Asher, a 6th-grade student in Ginny Stewart’s social studies class at Spring Branch Middle School, inspects a traditional goatskin water carrier and a bushman’s sword from Djibouti, which is located in East Africa. It was part of the Tommy Franks Museum Road Show that Comal ISD hosted at all five of its middle schools in late February. Franks is a four-star Army General and one time Commander-in-Chief of the United States Central Command, who received five Distinguished Service Medals
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and three Purple Hearts during his long and distinguished career that took him from West Germany at the height of the Cold War to the Demilitarized Zone in Korea, to the deserts of Arabia. The museum, which travels to schools nationwide free of charge, is a display of many of the gifts Franks received during his career and is a cultural, social, and geographical showcase from 24 different Middle East countries. “The Road Show gives students the chance to discover a bigger world and bigger possibilities,” said General Franks.
Discoveries Thru Vision By Dr. John Nevelow Nevelow Eye Associates (210) 349-2437 • www.drsnevelow.com lenses for a job interview? Of the patients polled 30 percent wore eyeglasses while n reading articles about eye health and 42 percent wore contact lenses. It didn’t problems it came to my attention that say which ones got the job, but ability was there are many things that affect our eyes probably more important. and vision. The following are some of the Why does crying cause puffy eyes? more interesting things you may not know It is because emotional tears are more about our eyes. watery than normal tears. The eyelids and Eye allergies can occur anytime during surrounding tissues absorb some of this the year. Redness, itching, watering, sandy- excess water causing them to swell and get gritty feeling when blinking, and puffy puffy. eyelids can all be symptoms of ocular Parents check your children’s eyes. allergies. Certain drugs such as marijuana can cause Should you wear glasses or contact
Eye Potpourri Part 1
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Some of the items on display included the general’s uniform, a hand-woven wool Afghan rug, a ceremonial sword from Pakistan, an Egyptian ivory walking stick, Bedouin jewelry from Oman and a copy of the ballot of the first democratic election in Afghanistan. “It was great to see so many of our students get to experience something this unique,” said Linda Dreibrodt, Comal ISD social studies curriculum coordinator. “This may be the only chance they have to see historical items from this region of the world.”
eyes to get dry, red, irritated and increase light sensitivity. So if your child shows any of these signs it doesn’t mean they are using recreational drugs, but have their eyes examined. Sleeping in contact lenses can cause some serious eye health problems. There are only a few contact lenses that are approved for extended wear use. There is a four times greater risk of eye problems from sleeping in contact lenses. No lenses should be worn for 30 days as suggested by some manufacturers. Six days on and one day off and replace at proper intervals is the best way to wear and extended wear contact lens.
Sarah Asher, a 6th-grade student in Ginny Stewart’s social studies class at Spring Branch Middle School, inspects a traditional goatskin water carrier and a bushman’s sword.
Stay tuned next month to see other interesting facts about our eyes. If you have any questions about the information in this article or any other questions about eyes please call Dr.’s John and Erin Nevelow at 210-349-2437 or at our website www. drsnevelow.com. Look us up on facebook too. John M. Nevelow, O.D., is a fellow of the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Nevelow Eye Associates is located at 19190 Stone Oak Pkwy., Suite 120. For more information, call (210) 349-2437 or visit www.drsnevelow.com.
Teaching Youth Tennis
Seeing to your family’s needs
The Spring Branch tennis pros smile with their young players after their tennis in the part event.
Special To Welcome Home he Spring Branch Tennis Association (a non-profit group) has four new courts at Jumbo Evans Sports Park on Highway 281. Tennis clinics will be offered to both juniors and adults, leagues are starting soon and tournaments will follow this summer. The association has after school clinics for beginners, intermediate and advanced players. These clinics are great for those kids preparing for the school tennis season. Both the association’s pros, Josh Rollins and Andrew Cannon, come with lengthy tennis careers. They are both certified P1 instructors by the United States Professional Tennis Association. Josh is an active player and has been teaching for 10 years. During this time he has coached junior players from their beginning days to the Super Championship. He strives to develop the best in a player through stamina building, mental focus and strategic play. Andrew comes fresh off the court as a
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t Nevelow Eye Associates, we focus on the specific needs of each patient. Regular eye exams are key to healthy eyesight as well as early detection of certain diseases, including glaucoma, diabetic eye diseases and macular degeneration. We provide the latest fashions in glasses, all types of contact lenses as well as laser vision consultations for the entire family.
www.drsnevelow.com Nevelow Eye Associates • 19190 Stone Oak Pkwy, Ste. 120 • 210.349.2437 10
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line judge and chair umpire for ATP, WTA and USPTA. He has called lines for such tournaments as the US Open, Indian Wells and Sony Ericson. The association’s pros can teach you not only stroke production, but strategic play that can create winning opportunities on the court. The courts are open to the public for a minimal fee. Membership is available at the “Game” level for as low as $35.00 a person per year. At the “Set” level membership you receive discounts on lessons, clinics and more. And finally the “Match” level is a lifetime membership with all the benefits (only 100 of the Match level memberships will be sold). Show your support for the county parks, the sport of Tennis, and the area’s youth by purchasing your membership to the Spring Branch Tennis Association. We hope everyone will come see the beautiful new courts, meet the pros and stay a bit, because those that are playing are having a ball.
April 2014 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261
The Tutoring Solution
Huntington Learning Center
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By Amanda Burris
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Seeing the peace that comes from not having to worry about grades, no longer having to fight over homework and having a child that looks forward to school instead of dreading it – that is what I love most about working at Huntington . . . My goal for all [the students] is to become confident, motivated, life-long learners that know they have the skills they need to pursue their dreams.”
here is nothing more frustrating to a student than falling behind in school and then having to continue to move forward each year, still struggling. At Huntington Learning Center, their certified teachers work one-on-one with students to develop an individualized approach that ultimately get them back on track. Founded in 1977 by Dr. Raymond Huntington and his wife Eileen, new curricula and instructional methodologies were developed that could benefit students of all grades and ages. With their belief that children will advance more quickly and see success through an individualized approach, the company has since grown to include hundreds of locations nationwide, which have helped to achieve this goal. In 2007, Huntington Learning Center found its start in San Antonio, first opening in Stone Oak and one year later opening a second center at DeZavala/I10. The DeZavala Center just recently was relocated to the Alon Shopping Center as of the beginning of April. Tom Rice is the owner of the two centers and has staffed each location with a dedicated and highly qualified staff, including center directors Staci Dennis and Mark Anne Millburn who are continually reaching out to those students who may be struggling or falling behind. While children begin to learn academic skills in early grades, each subsequent grade level continues to build on top of that, making it difficult if a student has fallen behind. Many times parents may only see a child is struggling, appear unmotivated or just is not doing well in their academics. “Sometimes it’s interpreted as they just don’t like school or they have a bad attitude about school,” Rice said. “But it typically really is that you don’t like to do what you’re not good at, and that the skills aren’t in place with the student that are making them really struggle in the classroom.” “We identify where the gaps are and go back to make sure all of the skills are in place for [the students] to be able to do their work independently going forward,” Rice said. At Huntington Learning Center, the staff has a variety of ways to approach academic problems, which can ultimately build to better confidence for the student. Whether a student needs help to transition into mainstream classes, needs assistance on particular subjects, wants to polish their study skills or is even looking for course enrichment in subjects to provide a challenge, Huntington Learning Center can make all the difference for students in K-12 (and even for adult students). “We start with a thorough academic evaluation to see what specific areas our students need help in,” said Staci Dennis. “Then we customize a program to help them reach their goals. We work closely with students’ parents and school teachers to ensure that we are all working together to make them successful at school, home and in the future.” While Huntington Learning Center aids in the learning process, it is not meant to be a replacement for school
rather, it should be more of a partnership. The learning center is comprised of certified teachers who are dedicated to seeing their students succeed both inside and outside of the classroom. Their approach, however, is more successful when they have a better understanding of what goes on in the student’s school life – they may even go in to talk to the student’s teacher. “It may be that there is something going on in the school that we don’t pick up from testing or working with them. So we can individualize their program by going to the schools and talking with them,” said Mark Anne Millburn. Through the learning center, Huntington targets the cracks in the student’s learning foundation and looks to put them back on course through their structured program. “Organized program is a benefit for children who don’t have structure in their life,” Millburn said. “They will bloom and grow faster when they have those boundaries.” Besides the learning center, students can also go to Huntington to prepare for college entrance exams such as the SAT/PSAT and the ACT. Preparing for college can be stressful and overwhelming to students, so Huntington Learning Center helps to alleviate that by developing a personal test prep program by giving the students an actual test under similar conditions while examining their strengths and weaknesses. The ultimate goal is that the student will be prepared and confident when they take the real test so that they have a better chance at getting into the college of their choice.
April 2014 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261
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– Staci Dennis, Center Director at Huntington Learning Center By focusing on all aspects of academics, Huntington Learning Center is designed to be the whole tutoring solution for parents. “The natural progression is first the learning center at a younger age and getting them up to speed and getting their skills in place. Once those are in place, they may have certain subjects that they hit along the way that they may need help in and so subject tutoring helps them with that,” said Rice. “And then, when they are in high school we have an outstanding course to prepare them for SATs or ACTs.” “Seeing the peace that comes from not having to worry about grades, no longer having to fight over homework and having a child that looks forward to school instead of dreading it – that is what I love most about working at Huntington,” said Dennis. “…My goal for all [the students] is to become confident, motivated, life-long learners that know they have the skills they need to pursue their dreams.”
Huntington Learning Center Huntingtonhelps.com 19141 Stone Oak Parkway, Suite 605 210-494-5858 10003 NW Military Hwy. Suite 1103 210-558-0636 11
San Antonio’s Tradition of Fun
F I E S TA
By Ben Spicer
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an Antonio has been celebrating Fiesta every spring since the first Battle of Flowers parade back in 1891. Fiesta has become known nationally as the city’s signature event and it continues to offer fun for all ages. With more than 100 events all across the city, some 3 million people take part in the fun. With great food to carnival rides to community parades, there is something for everyone. For those looking to narrow down the events into the bare necessities, here are a few events that you will definitely not want to miss: Alamo Heights Night, April 11. The 28th annual Alamo Heights Night offers food from some of San Antonio’s top restaurants and live music. The Alamo Heights Rotary Club has raised over $2,000,000 in support of nonprofit organizations since its inception. Alamo Heights Night is organized by over 100 volunteer Rotarians who head numerous committees to make the event a success. As one of the unofficial starts to Fiesta, this event is not to be missed. Fiesta Oyster Bake, April 11 & April 12. Oyster Bake is celebrating its 98 anniversary! Fiesta Oyster Bake began back in 1916 as a gathering of alumni. The event has grown into a yearly staple. With more than 100,000 oysters, served raw, baked or friend, Oyster Bake offers another 60 plus food booths. Savory favorites including fajitas, egg rolls, hamburgers, and sausage and chicken on a stick are also offered. Five stages play continuous music all night, and a multitude of beverages are available. Friday night is officially family night. Attendees can enjoy games and
interactive activities, finishing up with a fireworks finale. A Night in Old San Antonio (NIOSA), April 22 – April 25. The historic downtown village of La Villita will host 80,000 visitors for four nights to celebrate San Antonio’s unique heritage. 15 different heritage-themed areas offer more than 240 decorated food and drink booths. The event offers non-stop entertainment stages. Battle of Flowers Parade, April 25. Considered the founding event of Fiesta San Antonio, the Battle of Flowers parade holds the distinction of being the first celebration held in Alamo Plaza. This year’s theme is, “The Magic of Make Believe!” At 123 years old, this parade will enliven dreams of both young and old. Fiesta Flambeau Night Parade, April 26. One of the largest illuminated parades in the U.S., the 66th anniversary edition of the Fiesta Flambeau Night Parade celebrates the theme, “A Time to Remember.” The University of Texas Longhorn band is the premiere band that leads other marching units, including out of town bands, equestrian units, and other musical groups. The night is one of incredible entertainment in San Antonio. A Taste of the Northside, April 23. This Northside staple offers samples from more than 60 northside restaurants including top beer, fine wine, and top-shelf margaritas. Held at The Club of Sonterra, this event benefitting the Brighton Center offers both live music and free parking. For more information on upcoming Fiesta activities visit www.fiesta-sa.org for a full list of events and times.
Benefiting
15TH ANNUAL
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UA ANN
Co-Presented By
Wednesday, April 23, 2014 5:30pm to 10:30pm
Brighton Center’s
The Nort hside
A TASTE OF
C O - P R E S E N T E D
BY
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H - E- B
The Club At Sonterra
$55 in advance
UPGRADE FOR A
www.BrightonSA.org or San Antonio H.E.B. locations until 4/21/2014
EXPERIENCE
AT TASTE OF THE NORTHSIDE $
The official Event Planners for A Taste of the Northside
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• • • • • • •
200 Gets all of this: A Taste of the Northside Event Ticket Access to the exclusive VIP Lounge (The only indoor party spot!) VIP Parking in covered parking garage Transportation to event in large reserved buses for our VIP’s Meet our “Fiesta Foodie” Tanji Patton from GoodTaste with Tanji Commemorative Taste of the Northside wine glass and butler tray VIP only wine & beer selections with Exclusive Chef Prepared Culinary
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$60 at the door
5 Live Bands Varied Wine & Beers Stella Artois Beer Garden Fireworks Finale EACH TICKET INCLUDES:
5 Drink Tickets 8 Food Tickets Free Parking & Shuttle
April 2014 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261
A Taste of the Northside’s 2014 Queen of the Vine, Natalie Pfeiffer, raised $265,000 for the Brighton Center.
Natalie Pfeiffer and her husband P.J., worked as a dynamic duo to help raise funds for the Brighton Center. Natalie Pfeiffer worked with Stephanie through the Brighton Center, which inspired her to run for Queen of the Vine where she raised money for the organization.
A Taste Of The Northside’s Queen of the Vine Raises $265,000 for the Brighton Center
By Katrina Campbell
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iesta® is right around the corner and for San Antonio’s Northside, that means one thing, it’s time for A Taste of the Northside! Voted the Best Fiesta Event® by WOAI for three years in a row, this event has it all for those looking to experience Fiesta® in a super fabulous kind of way. This year, the fan favorite event will be celebrating its fifteenth anniversary and to celebrate, the hosts of the event, the Brighton Center, is pulling out all the stops. Guests can expect additions like a Stella Artois beer garden, a 10 minute fireworks finale and a local favorite band, The Max, playing on the main stage. In regards to restaurants, there will be many veterans to the event like Kirby’s Steakhouse, P.F. Changs and H-E-B with their abundance of food, wine and sommeliers onsite to tell you more about what you’re tasting. And no Fiesta® is complete without their own set of royalty and A Taste of the Northside is no different. The Queen of the Vine, Natalie Pfeiffer, will be reigning over the event ensuring that the VIP lounge named in her honor has only the best food, drinks and music to offer. Pfeiffer and her entire family have been tremendous supporters of the organization for more than 10 years and when the opportunity to run for Queen of the Vine was presented to Pfeiffer, she quickly jumped at the chance. “I am blessed and honored to have worked with this amazing organization in the past and my family, friends and I continue to support them in their efforts to reach even more children in our community,” said Pfeiffer. “Based on our experience working and being involved with Brighton Center, my daughters have witnessed, first-hand, the value of inclusion and encouraging others to reach their potential. I am so proud to know that my girls do not see disabilities, instead they see the ability in all children.”
The cover of this edition features Pfeiffer and her daughters Kenzie and Cami; an accurate reflection of how her campaign was ran, as a family effort. Through special events, raffles, online donations and auction items, every member of Pfeiffer’s family played an integral role in her quest to become Queen of the Vine. From her husband PJ Pfeiffer reaching out to numerous corporations requesting support, to her daughters selling raffle tickets, to her recruiting her friends and family to help host an event, the Pfeiffer family worked together tirelessly to raise money for the more than 2,700 children with disabilities or delays that the Brighton Center serves every year.
The efforts of Natalie and her team of supporters more than paid off with a total of $200,000 being raised for Brighton Center. Shattering every individual fundraising record set to date, Pfeiffer earned the coveted title of Queen of the Vine, and will be representing Brighton as the official Fiesta® royalty of A Taste of the Northside. The entire 2014 Queen of the Vine campaign court included Tiffany Mock Briggs, a wealth management advisor for Merrill Lynch and mother of two; and Princess of the Vine, ZZ Mylar, a marketing/advertising specialist and mother of six, two of which received services from Brighton. Collectively, these 3 women have raised $265,000 for the Brighton Center, a feat that would typically take a whole army of volunteers to accomplish in several years’ time. These women stand in good company and have followed well in the footsteps of their most recent Queen predecessors like April Ancira, 2013 Queen of the Vine; Shelly Miles, 2012 Queen of the Decade & 2008 Queen of the Vine; and Dr. Amy Jackson, 2011 Queen of the Vine, who each broke the Queen of the Vine campaign record in the respective years they ran. You can come out and visit with the Queen of the Vine and her court at A Taste of the Northside on April 23 from 5:30-10:30 p.m. All proceeds from A Taste of the Northside benefit Brighton Center and each general admission ticket is only $55 (pre-sale) and includes eight Food tastings from over 50 of San Antonio’s best restaurants, five beer or wine tastings courtesy of Silver Eagle and Glazer’s, and Free Parking & Shuttle. Guests can also upgrade to the Queen of the Vine’s V.I.P. Lounge where they can enjoy additional food and drink tastings, exclusive indoor access, a commemorative wine glass and butler tray, as well as special reserved shuttle parking. Limited tickets are available for $200. For more information, visit www.BrigtonSA.org or call 210-826-4492.
Brighton has been serving the community for over 40 years. Brighton Center serves over 2,700 children with developmental delays and disabilities and their families each year through four distinct initiatives - an inclusive child development center, early childhood intervention, parent education and advocacy training. Brighton Center continues to fulfill its vision to create a society where all children are valued and included. April 2014 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261
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Hormone Therapy: It Doesn’t Have To Be This Way
By Donna Becker, D.O. Enhancement of Life (210) 545-5224 t about age 50 or so, insomnia with daytime fatigue and awakening with night sweats begins in women and even in some men. For men, the predominant sign of dwindling hormones, in my opinion, is lack of confidence with some anxiety. You tell yourself, well, I am getting older! I need to exercise more, eat better, lose weight, and then things will be better. But they don’t really get better – and without hormones
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it may be very difficult to ramp up the willpower to deny comfort foods and get out and run. Theory behind anti-aging medicine is simple: restore hormones to a more youthful range and restore yourself. Aging is really a deficiency disease – replace that which you can no longer make inside of your endocrine glands. Anti-aging really is wellness medicine. Many women have said to me, “My doctor said, you’re just getting older.” Think of yourself as a beautiful but older, sports car. You must replace parts and fix it, so the
car will continue to run. Why would you go to a mechanic who might talk of driving the car less, or buying a new cheaper model? For women, make sure you are taking a balance of hormones. Even if you don’t have a uterus, you need the calming, leveling effect of progesterone. Testosterone is not just for libido, but for drive, muscle, energy, and most importantly, for a sense of well being. The range of testosterone =2075, estradiol=35-75, progesterone= 10-20. That is the synopsis of what I do – I get the numbers right. We are all different, you the patient, guides me. I like to ask rapid
questions, so you don’t over-think your answer, and then I am guided as to how to prescribe your particular balance. Men need testosterone and usually an estrogen blocker. Testosterone transforms into estrogen detrimentally leading to breast and stomach size increase. Testosterone also causes an increase in red blood cells—too many cells jamming through the tiny vessels in the brain for example is not desired. So when the hemoglobin increases to 18-then one must donate 2 units of blood. Side effects, risks, and untoward effects may occur with any prescription medicine. Donna Becker, D.O., Board Certified in Emergency Medicine. Enhancement of Life is located at 14603 Huebner Rd., Suite 2601, San Antonio, TX 78231. For more information, call (210) 545-5224 or visit www.antiagingsa.com.
Reynolds Attends International Competition Submitted By Kathy Reynolds ichaelah Reynolds, Senior and Feature Twirler at Smithson Valley High School competed at the 19th Annual Twirl Mania Championships held Feb 14 –17 in Orlando, Florida. Twirl Mania is a “One of a Kind” International baton twirling championship for twirlers everywhere, including every level and every twirling organization at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. Twirlers from Puerto Rico, Japan, United Kingdom, Holland, Canada, the United States, and many more countries came together to compete. Michaelah competed in 10 events for two days and won the Senior Intermediate
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X-Strut competition and was 3rd runner up, Senior Intermediate Miss Twirl Mania. She placed in the top five in two baton and three batons and in top 10 in solo, high school classic and freestyle events. This was the first time Reynolds attended this competition. “It was an experience of a lifetime,” Reynolds said. “Competing at this level with other girls from around the world was an awesome opportunity I will never forget.” Because part of the Twirl Mania experience has a Walt Disney World park hopper pass, Michaelah was able to enjoy the other Disney parks when she wasn’t competing. Reynolds’ next competition will be the National Baton Twirling Association (NBTA) Southwest Regional in Amarillo at the end of March.
Michaelah Reynolds, senior and feature twirler at Smithson Valley, competed at the Twirl Mania Championships held in Orlando, Florida.
Theater Arts Classes for Kids
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Submitted By Sandi Mitchell hristian Youth Theater, CYT is now registering for their spring class session. Classes are held at Riverside Church/ Gloria Deo Academy on Tuesdays from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. starting March 18. Christian Youth Theater San Antonio is Christian Youth Theater (CYT) is a premier after-school theater arts training program for students ages 4 – 18. Since its founding in 1981 in San Diego, CYT has grown to be the largest youth theater in the nation and is a non-profit 501(c)3 educational organization funded primarily through its tuition, ticket sales, and outside contributions. CYT San Antonio is one of many CYT affiliates across the country training thousands of students each year and is a licensee of CYT Inc. (Christian Community Theater, Inc., located in San Diego, CA). CYT San Antonio became it’s own expansion in 2011. Because CYT does not own facilities for classes or productions, the organization works through the local community, utilizing classrooms and stages in churches, schools and local theaters. CYT is not affiliated with a church body, and people of all faiths are welcome. CYT stands in the forefront in its commitment to the highest ethical, moral, technical and artistic standards of excellence. Instructors are professionals, qualified in teaching and/or performing, who must understand CYT’s mission statement, values, objectives and goals. The staff of CYT San Antonio strives to be
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Christian Youth Theater offers theater arts classes for children as an after-school activity.
excellent role models. Every session (fall, winter and spring) CYT offers theater arts classes for children as an after-school activity. Each CYT across the country conducts three independent class sessions throughout the school year, teaching drama, voice, dance and a broad spectrum of specialty theatrical workshops at weekly two-hour classes. Financial assistance or partial scholarships are available for those in need and sibling discounts are available to multichildren families. Enrolled students have the opportunity to work behind the scenes, or audition and perform on stage in a Broadway-style musical performed for the community. CYT currently has two class locations: Bulverde and New Braunfels. Visit www. cytsanantonio to register now or for more information.
April 2014 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261
Smithson Valley Navy JRTOC Volunteers
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Betsy Dippo State Farm (210) 496-3276
hallenge: List every possession you own, along with each item’s worth. Now imagine doing this after your belongings have been stolen or destroyed in a fire or natural disaster. The task may now seem impossible. Luckily, it doesn’t have to be. Creating a home inventory with the State Farm HomeIndex® makes the job easier. Why do I need a home inventory? A home inventory can be used to help you make coverage decisions. It also can simplify filing an insurance claim, help you secure a settlement and prove useful when verifying property loss for taxes. Despite the importance of an inventory, many individuals don’t have a detailed record of their belongings. According to a 2012 survey from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, 59 percent of consumers don’t have an inventory. Of those who do, many haven’t kept their records up-to-date or didn’t include the necessary documentation. How do I make an inventory with HomeIndex? HomeIndex is a free online tool for documenting possessions. You can access HomeIndex through your smartphone, tablet and computer. The program guides
you through each step of the process, including: Making a list. HomeIndex helps you group belongings into logical categories or sort them by room. Use this checklist to make sure you don’t leave anything off the list. Creating a thorough record. Add detail to your inventory with product descriptions, including the item’s make, model, serial number, date of purchase and purchase price. Also upload photos of the item along with a copy of the sales receipt or appraisal. Updating your inventory. HomeIndex offers whenever, wherever access to your inventory. This makes it quick and easy to add an item to your list or edit an entry. Storing it in a safe place. Print hard copies of your inventory and store in multiple locations or keep it digital. HomeIndex stores your inventory safely and securely in the cloud, and it’s accessible from any mobile device or computer. You can even email the inventory directly to your agent. Betsy Dippo, State Farm agent, Long Term Care Professional. Betsy’s office is located at 19190 Stone Oak Pkwy., Suite 112, San Antonio, TX 78258. For more information, call 210- 496-3276 or visit www.betsydippo.com.
Smithson Valley Golf Continues Success
Smithson Valley Navy JROTC cadets volunteered during two community events this past month.
Submitted By Vince Quidachay n Saturday, March 1, the Smithson Valley Navy JROTC cadets volunteered to assist in two local community events. Several cadets assisted Spring Branch Middle School with their UIL Events, which started at 7:30 a.m. and ended at 4:00 p.m. Some other cadets chose to help out with the Rahe Bulverde Elementary School Spring Festival that started at 10:30 a.m. and ended at 3:30 p.m.
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The NJROTC Unit collects thousands of hours of community service each year, and it helps in recruiting future students. “It was a lot of fun helping out all of those elementary school kids, and seeing parents enjoy themselves,” Cadet Lieutenant Phillip Winston commented. After the younger students began to leave the festival, many of the Smithson Valley High School NJROTC students also tried some of the obstacles. Although some of the cadets received sunburns, they all had an amazing time.
Celebrating 25 Years Serving The Community
(Left to Right) Brooklyn Sutton (medalist), Holly Mendez, Johanny Rivera, Megan Woods, Lauren Mancha, Amanda Turney and Coach Jason Pape (back). Photo Credit: Jennifer Mancha.
Submitted By Glen Turney he Smithson Valley golf program has two new successes to add to their list of accolades. The Smithson Valley varsity girls golf team placed second at the NEISD Regional Preview Tournament held at Schreiner Municipal Golf Course in Kerrville. This elite field included many of the teams that will be vying to reach regionals from their respective districts. The top three regional teams will advance to state. Megan Woods led the team with two rounds of 74 for a 148 total and placed 3rd as an individual in the event. In addition to the varsity success, the Smithson Valley junior varsity girls golf
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(Left to Right) Sandy Espericueta, Brendell Bobo, Shelby Stuever, Hannah May, and Coach Jason Pape.
team placed third at their recent “River Crossing Stampede” tournament held February 24 at the River Crossing Golf Club. Congratulations to the Smithson Valley Golf program!
April 2014 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261
Betsy Dippo, Agent 19190 Stone Oak Pkwy • San Antonio, TX 78258
210.496-FARM (3276) • www.betsydippo.com • Auto • Homeowners • Renters • Business • Health • Life
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Experience The
DUTCH BOY Difference
Making Your Clothes Last Longer; A Practical Guide
By Pat Gardner t has been proven that regular cleaning prolongs the life of your wardrobe. At Dutch Boy Cleaners, we are committed
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to the proper care of your clothing and household textiles. This is our business and we are very good at what we do. Dutch Boy has been working with its’ customers for over 32 years and has seen it all from changing fashions to changing fabrics. The fabrics used to manufacture many of today’s garments need specialized cleaning and handling. One thing we have found is that there is more than one way to clean a particular garment. Most dry cleaners are restricted to one method of cleaning which isn’t good news for your clothing. Our cleaners are experts at proper fabric care. For example, there are times when certain garments need to be cleaned in water even when they say, “dry clean only”. We have
specialized detergents and controls for doing this and the results are always fabulous. This commitment to your clothing is what we are all about. If you have a special garment or stain problem, we will work with you on a proper care procedure. Whether you bring us a St. John, Armani, Vera Wang or a pair of jeans from Wal-Mart, Dutch Boy Cleaners has the right methods to care for those garments. Dutch Boy is a full service cleaner. That means whatever you have to clean we can take care of it for you. Wedding dress preservation, leathers, furs, drapes and comforters are welcomed and cleaned professionally. Our in house seamstresses perform alterations and minor mending.
SA Book Festival Coming Downtown
Submitted By Laura Hernandez Aplin n Saturday, April 5, hand your child a passport to knowledge and come to the second annual San Antonio Book Festival at Southwest School of Art and the San Antonio Central Public Library. Kids and families will find fun interactive educational/art activities by My Story, Say Sí, the San Antonio Children’s Museum and Spare Parts, along with exciting performances from the Magik Theatre. The Literacy Caravan will offer free books and the VIA Classroom On Wheels
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Bus,a specially designed ‘green’ hybrid bus, will highlight the benefits of public transportation. With over 90 authors presenting, including 15 children’s and young adult authors, there is something for everyone. While the main event is the author presentations, rounding out the day long experience are book sales and signings, a literary marketplace, recipe demonstrations from cookbook authors, food truck fare and musical entertainment. Of the15 award winning children’s
and young adult authors presenting, some notable authors include: Brian Floca, author and illustrator of Locomotive, a rich and detailed sensory exploration of America’s early railroads. Floca has just won the 2014 Caldecott Medal for Locomotive, awarded to one author each year for the most distinguished American picture book for children. Other authors presenting are Kathi Appelt, author of The True Blue Scouts of Sugar Man Swamp, which tells the story of Raccoon brothers Bingo and J’miah,
Kinder Ranch Hosts 3rd Annual Race
Submitted By Jason Gordon he Kinder Ranch Elementary School Parent Teacher Association is excited to announce that the third annual
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“Race at the Ranch” will take place on Saturday, April 5. This exciting event is comprised of a 5K Run/Walk, 1 Mile Fun Run and a Health and
Activity Fair. It will be held at the KRES campus and the 5K will take racers through the beautiful Kinder Ranch community. At the Health and Activity Fair, there will be many different businesses from the community that focus on physical activity and healthy lifestyles giving both demonstrations and information to attendees. There will also be a Basket Silent Auction with baskets donated by KRES classrooms and the community. The fair will run from 8 a.m. to noon. The race continues the Comal ISD FIT health initiative. Comal FIT challenges the district’s students and staff to live healthier lifestyles through exercise and diet. “We look forward to seeing you and your family at the Race at the Ranch,” said
There are so many ways that we can help you to maintain your wardrobe and keep you looking and feeling great. Dutch Boy Cleaners has various locations: 19202 Stone Oak Parkway; 21770 Bulverde Road; 192 FM 1863 @281: See the ad in Welcome Home for discount coupons and specials. Call 210494-7966 or visit www.DutchBoyCleaners. com for more information.
who learn about care and conservation; Rene Colato Lainez, author of Jugeumos al Futbol y al football!, which tells the story of two boys overcoming differences in something as basic as football and soccer; and Joe Cepeda, illustrator of Cubs Big World written by Sarah L. Thomson, which tells the tender story of new experiences, homecoming, and the love between a parent and child. Who knew reading could be so much fun? We hope to see you at this day long free event on Saturday, April 5.
principal Dr. Judy Murray. “It’s becoming one of our most popular Kinder Ranch community events of the year.” iRun San Antonio will be both mapping the course and chip timing the race. The “Race at the Ranch” will include winners in all age groups who will receive awards and medals. KRES is hoping to have 500 racers for this event and is counting on community support to make this happen. All proceeds from this race will go to providing educational materials and technology for KRES classrooms. For more information, or to register for the event, please visit www.raceattheranch. org.
Indian Springs Elementary Holds Bike Rodeo Submitted By Jason Gordon hanks to San Antonio Police Department Officer Gordon Keogh and many PTA volunteers, Indian Springs Elementary had a very successful Bike Rodeo on March 5. The Helmets and Handlebars Bike Rodeo was held at Indian Springs Elementary where Officer Keogh checked the bike rodeo participants’ bicycles for lights or reflectors on the front and back, the tire pressure, a safe handle bar and chain, and the brakes. Officer Keogh also stressed to the students about the importance of wearing a helmet while riding at all times. After passing inspection by Officer Keogh, participants were then able to go through several bike-riding stations that tested their balance, steering ability and coordination of their bicycles. “We definitely want to thank Officer Keogh for his time and effort,” said Marisa
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Indian Springs Elementary Bike Rodeo Participants: (LR) Sarah Hogan and Megan Childress.
Wulfsberg, Indian Springs Elementary principal. “We also couldn’t have pulled this off without the great support of the Indian Springs Elementary PTA volunteers.”
April 2014 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261
10 West Business Association presents:
Guest Speaker City Council District 8
Ron Nirenberg Join us & Councilman Nirenberg for this informative meeting about news & business in District 8. When: Wednesday, April 30, 2014 11:30 am – 1:30 pm Where: Luce Ristorante e Enoteca (In the Strand Shopping Center) 11255 Huebner Rd, Ste #200 Cost: Members – $15, Non-Members – $20, Door – $25 (Lunch is included.)
E-mail: info@10westbusiness.com
To RSVP, call 210-348-8233 or visit www.10westbusiness.com
Stone Oak Business Association Presents
2014 Business Expo hosted by Ronald Reagan High School
Stone Oak Business Association (SOBA) is excited to be welcomed back to Ronald Reagan High School for the 12th Annual SOBA Business Expo. This well attended event benefits both Reagan and Johnson High Schools. As a vendor your business will gain exposure to the community, parents, teachers and students. All funds raised from the expo will help the SOBA Scholarship Program to award scholarships to outstanding seniors graduating from Reagan and Johnson Fine Arts Departments. Donated raffle items are also needed and appreciated.
CALL TO RESERVE YOUR BOOTH SPACE TODAY! S
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When: Thursday, April 24, 2014 5:30 – 8 pm
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Stone Oak Business Association
Ronald Reagan H.S.
Lady Bird JOHNSON H.S.
Performa
Las Lomances by: s Choir and Reagan J ROTC
Where: Ronald Reagan High School Cafeteria 19000 Ronald Reagan Dr. (Off Sonterra Blvd.) Cost: $85 for Members | $125 for Non-Members
BOOTH RSVP: (210)348-8233 • e-mail: soba@satx.rr.com www.StoneOakBusiness.com April 2014 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261
www.welcomehomesa.com
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Stone Oak Pediatric Dentistry “Caring for your children as if they were our own!”
• Convenient appointments
t forge ar t ’ n o l D t regu to ge ck-ups! che
Nursery School · After School Recreation · Mother’s Day Out Preschool · Private Kindergarten · Summer Camp
Now Enrolling for Summer Camp!
Dr. Susie Hayden Board Certified Pediatric Dentist
• Ask about complimentary presentation for your mom’s groups, preschool or elementary • Accepting new patients
Dr. Courtney Alexander Board Certified Pediatric Dentist
Dr. Renee Mikulec Board Certified Pediatric Dentist
Dr. Royana Lin Board Certified Pediatric Dentist
210-491-4141 • www.sopdtx.com
20322 Huebner Suite 103 • San Antonio, TX 78258
SKYBRIDGE
COMMUNITY CHURCH
Pastor Russell Howelton
God really loves you. This Easter celebrate the love of
Jesus Christ www.skybridgechurch.org Rainbow Station is accredited by NAEYC.
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LOCATION: Ice & Golf Center at Northwoods 17530 Henderson Pass San Antonio, TX 78232
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SERVICE TIMES: Sunday Worship 9:30 – 10:45 am Children’s Sunday Ministry 8:45 – 9:45 am Wednesday Bible Study 7 – 8 pm
April 2014 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261
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10 OFF Dry Cleaning
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(Min order of $ 40) Bring this coupon and receive 10 OFF with $ 40 of drycleaning. Coupon must accompany incoming order. Not valid w/other discounts or 3 pant special. One coupon per day. Exp. 4/30/14 NC $
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50% OFF Dry Cleaning (Max discount $10)
Wearing apparel only. Not valid on household item, leather, or suede. Coupon must accompany incoming order. Not valid w/other discounts or 3 pant special. One coupon per day. Exp. 4/30/14 NC
4th Men’s Shirt FREE Laundry
EVERYONE PLAYS, EVERYONE WINS 2014 Summer Youth Sports
Bring this coupon with 4 shirts and get your 4th shirt FREE. Coupon must accompany incoming order. Not valid w/other discounts. Men’s shirts only. One coupon per day. Exp. 4/30/14 NC
Sports offered (Boys & Girls ages 3 - 15) • Baseball/T-Ball • Soccer (co-ed)
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• Basketball • Football 7 on 7
April 2014 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261