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February 2014 Issue
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February 2014 • Welcome Home • 78255/78256/78257
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10 West Business Association presents:
Guest Speaker City Council District 8
Ron Nirenberg Join us and Councilman Nirenberg for this informative meeting about news and business in District 8. When: Friday, February 21, 2014 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM Where: Pericos Mexican Cuisine at Huebner Oaks 11075 IH-10 West 78230 Cost: Members – $15, Non-Members – $20, Door – $25 (members & non-members invited to attend)
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
The 2014 Stone Oak Business Association Expo is excited to be welcomed back to Ronald Reagan High School for the 12th annual 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 High Schools. Donated raffle items are also needed and appreciated.
CALL TODAY AND RESERVE YOUR SPACE! Go Rattlers!!! S
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Stone Oak Business Association Ronald Reagan H.S.
Lady Bird JOHNSON H.S.
When: Thursday, April 24, 2014 5:30 to 8:00 PM Where: Ronald Reagan High School Cafeteria 19000 Ronald Reagan Dr. San Antonio, Texas 78258 Cost: $85 for Members | $125 for Non-Members
To RSVP: 210-348-8233 E-mail: soba@satx.rr.com www.stoneoakbusiness.com 4
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February 2014 • Welcome Home • 78255/78256/78257
Note From The Publisher
SPACE AVAILABLE
Attitude Of Gratitude
F
ebruary is known as the month of love. Our front cover has a beautiful couple whose marriage has stood the test of time and is a testament to all of us. Love, whether it is between two teen-agers or between two young 80 year olds is beautiful to behold. Valentines Day is this month and to honor this special day, Welcome Home has sought out some special love stories in our community to share with you. Turn to page 8 to read more on our front cover couple and page 9 for our love stories. My daughter, Rashell, is now 17 and a senior at Reagan. She will graduate this year and begin her journey into adulthood. We were blessed to be able to take a vacation during the Christmas holidays and decided to go to Disneyworld. As I grow older and hopefully wiser, I realize it’s not the “things” you buy your children that matter but the “experiences” you share with them that have value in the long run. We spent every day there together and saw and did as many things as we possibly could. We had the best time ever and were still talking when we returned home, which is pretty close to a miracle for a father and a 17 year old daughter together day and night for 12 days. Being at the Magic Kingdom almost makes you feel like you are living in a fairy tale. You start to believe that no dream is too big to become true. It was the most incredible way to start 2014. When I returned to San Antonio, I was on such an emotional recharge I was determined this year would be the best year ever. I decided to only focus on the many positive things happening in my life and business instead of the few negatives. One day I posted on my Facebook wall that I had
been blessed to meet someone and talk to them for hours. I said it felt great to be in the right place at the right time. A friend of mine on Facebook replied, “Have an Attitude of Gratitude. Keep it up and more of the right people at the right time will show up!” I just loved her advice. Too often we don’t realize what we have by living in the greatest country in the world. This month we celebrate President’s Day, and there are some local campaigns taking place. Exercise your freedoms and participate in our democracy. With our beautiful San Antonio weather, get outside and enjoy the city. Live life to the fullest. I had the honor to attend an event held by The Ferrari Kid. At the event there was a 5 year old child who had 5 weeks to live. You would not have known it by the way he or his family was acting. They were having the time of their lives. They knew the value of life. They had learned to be grateful for every second they had been given. It was a very humbling experience for me. Finally, I am so excited with all the submissions this month. We have so many wonderful children in our areas to be recognized each and every month. If you have a business in our areas that is so blessed it does not need to advertise, consider sponsoring a school page for the many different groups to be recognized. As a member of our community, remember to visit the businesses in this newspaper and let them know you saw them in your Welcome Home community newspaper. Sincerely,
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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. Welcome Home Intern Reilly Magee
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Welcome Home Community Newspaper is looking for FIVE motivated individuals for the position of Sales Representatives!
Submit stories, upcoming events and photos to: articles@welcomehomesa.com or welcomehomesa.com/submit-a-story Submission Guidelines: x x x x x
Optimal articles for print are 300-500 words in length Calendar submissions require date, time, location, cost, and RSVP information Send high resolution photos (greater than 300 dpi) Include a photo credit when applicable Include contact information for more details
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Staff Writers Debby Seguin Calvin Speer Contributing Writers Paula Allen NISD Cadet Alexandra Trevino Dr. Jerry Woods
February 2014 • Welcome Home • 78255/78256/78257
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 and its affiliates 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 announcements 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 announcements for conciseness and grammar as needed and may need to prioritize certain events, for any reason, before publication.
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TMI Poetry Winner Bound For State Submitted By Paula Allen lizabeth Holmes, a freshman at TMI – The Episcopal School of Texas, is the winner of the school’s Poetry Out Loud recitation contest and will advance to the state finals to be held February 22 in Austin. Second-place winner is sophomore Sofia Miranda-Fred, who is also the alternate if Holmes is unavailable to compete at the state level. The TMI competition was held December 2 in the school’s Margaret M. Alkek Theater with eight contestants representing all four Upper School grades. Seniors Victoria True and Susannah Wright, juniors Alexis Jourdan and Isabel Miller, sophomores Sofia Miranda-Fred and Gabriella Largoza and freshmen Holmes and Alexandra Prado were chosen by their English teachers in classroom competitions. Students recited from memory one poem in each of two rounds, including the work of a diverse selection of poets including Margaret Atwood, Lewis Carroll, T.S. Eliot, Dorothy Parker and Edgar Allan Poe. Judges were local poets Jacinto Jesus Cardona, Bonnie Lyons and James R. Adair. Graham Bates ’10, a student at Trinity University, served as accuracy judge, while Fine Arts Department Chair Mary Scudday served as prompter and TMI teachers Catie and Michael Haveman were score tabulators. A copy of the Poetry Out Loud anthology was given to TMI’s Jones Library in
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TMI freshman Elizabeth Holmes recites a poem from memory to win first place in the school’s Poetry Out Loud recitation contest.
Holmes’ honor. Poetry Out Loud is a national program that encourages high-school students to learn about great poetry through memorization, performance and competition. Founded in 2005 by the National Endowment for the Arts and the Poetry Foundation, the program has competitions in 2,255 high schools across the country. Throughout the 2013-2014 school year, TMI is celebrating the 120th anniversary of its founding in 1893. The flagship school of the Episcopal Diocese of West Texas, TMI is a private, co-educational, college-preparatory school for grades 6-12, with optional Junior ROTC and boarding programs. For information, visit www.tmisa.org or call 698-7171.
LibraryPalooza Offers Fun For All By NISD he “LibraryPalooza, That Author Thing!” will be held from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 22 at Brandeis HS. The teen Author Fest will include authors Patrick Carman, Matt de la Péna, Helen Frost, Maureen Johnson, Kazu Kibuishi, and Polly Shulman. Attendees will have the opportunity to purchase books and have them signed by the authors. Although geared toward middle and high school students, the event is open to anyone. There is no cost for the event and no advanced registration is required. Food will be provided for purchase (cash only) including food trucks from
T
Agility
Herding
Fuddrucker’s, Dixieland BBQ, and Sabores during the lunch break in the back bus loop. Entertainment from Northside student rock bands will also be provided. A percentage of all sales will go to Friends of Northside Libraries. The program is made possible in part by contributions from Northside libraries, and is sponsored by the Friends of Northside Libraries. For more information on the schedule and the authors, go to their website. Updates about the event will be posted on Twitter @NISD_LibPalooza and Instagram LibraryPalooza, and their Facebook page.
Obedience
On The Cover By Amanda Burris ebruary brings Valentine’s Day –The holiday of love. During this season of hearts, flowers, chocolates and gifts, it is important to remember that above all else, it is love that we celebrate. For husband and wife, Harry and Thelma Ferrell, this year they are celebrating their 75th Valentine’s Day together. With a love that has lasted so long, it is easily inspiring to all who meet them. Their love extends much further than just a relationship between two people. They have experienced a lifetime of memories as they have raised a beautiful family, worked jobs and have gone into retirement, traveled around the United States and now continue to get the most from each day of their lives together. Both in their 90’s, they have had the opportunity to not only see, but to change with the history happening around them. It is through all of this that they have not only stayed together, but have grown together. Love is not always about the fluff or the romance; Sometimes love is about the lasting dedication and promise that two people make to each other, which is what makes it so beautiful. This month, Welcome Home got the opportunity to learn this couple’s story and hear from some of their family. To read about the Ferrells who are
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The Game of Life By Debby Seguin
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ife is like a game show, very similar to Who Wants To Be A Millionaire. In place of Regis Philbin would be my husband, asking the questions, and I, of course, am in the hot seat. With all my lifelines available, the game begins. First question: “Why is there no green tea?” (Oo-oo-oo that’s a toughy!) “I’ll use the 50-50 please.” Which leaves A) tea farmers strike in Peru, or B) I forgot to buy it. “A—my final answer!” Next question: “How did mud get on my monogrammed brass letter opener?” (Could he mean that handy little boot scraper by the back door?) “Um-m, let me poll the audience—Kids!” Other questions follow. “Did you see the dust on the pagoda statue? (We have a
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featured on the cover, turn to page 8. To read other inspiring love stories of those throughout the community turn to page 9.
Family Life
K9 Country Club
• Day Camp • Overnight Boarding • Grooming
Photo Credit: Chasity Furse
Thelma and Harry Ferrell who will be spending their 75th Valentines Day together.
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pagoda statue?) “How long are you going to let the weeds grow by the front door?” (Sheesh! It’s nothing that a good, strong machete won’t take care of.) “When’s the last time you checked the oil?” (Hm-m, can I phone a friend?) Anytime we purchase even the most frivolous item (food, clothing, shelter, etc) we play The Price Is Right. If its not 60 percent off, two year free financing, 10year warranty, we don’t really need it. Of course, this never applies to anything from the Home Depot, which usually lands us right onto the set of The Family Feud. Jeopardy is also a favorite. “I choose Male Facts for $400.” O.K. the answer is 63:1. What is the question? “What is the ratio of the number of times a man (at least the one who lives here) is wrong to the number of times he admits it?” $400! We don’t play much Wheel Of Fortune, as some family members spell phonetically. How would it look to buy a vowel from Vanna, expecting three O’s for Jorj Boosh and only getting one? It’s just as frustrating at the grocery store when I am trying to buy pukontee soss and torteeyas. Whether its “Home late from your date? Let’s play Truth Or Consequences.” Or, “The house is a wreck, let’s play Beat The Clock,” we savor every roll of the dice, every spin of the dial, every move of our family’s playing pieces in this sometimes wonderful, sometimes difficult, but always surprising game called Life. Debby Seguin (who loves to play PIT) can be reached at writewell62@yahoo. com.
February 2014 • Welcome Home • 78255/78256/78257
Mellard Dentistry: A Place For All Your Dental Needs
By Amanda Burris
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n act as simple as a smile, which can be given freely to those around you, has the power to change someone’s day completely. This beautiful gift, that everyone has the freedom to give, is special and unique to each individual. At Mellard Dentistry at Leon Springs, Drs. Mary and Randy Mellard are dedicated to keeping their patients’ smiles healthy and looking great so that they can continue feeling confident with each smile they give. Mellard Dentistry is a combination of two excellent doctors dedicated to their practice and their patients. The Mellards both originally had separate practices in Houston, with Dr. Mary running a family and cosmetic dental practice and Dr. Randy working as a periodontist. After they found themselves as empty nesters, they moved to San Antonio for a change of lifestyle. This husband and wife team is not only qualified, but make the perfect combination for this warm, comfortable and caring dental office environment. The combination of their skills and practices allow the Mellards to provide patients with an opportunity to find all of their dental services under the same roof. “Emphasis is placed on individual service with each patient treated according to their personal needs and desires with comfort being a primary concern,” the Mellards said. “Services available range from simple to complex and always are driven by the desire to make the dental experience a relaxed, pleasant event. From children to seniors, Mellard Dentistry strives to make each patient’s experience pleasant, comfortable and rewarding.” Both doctors are well educated and found their calling to dentistry practices in different ways. Dr. Mary Mellard first developed a love for her profession when she worked part-time for a dentist in high school. She found she was passionate about working with people due to her ability to help patients achieve optimal oral health, which could truly make a difference in people’s lives. Dr. Mary holds a Fellow and Master’s certificate from the Academy of General Dentistry. From the same association, she has been recognized with their prestigious Lifelong Learning and Service Recognition Award, something only ten other dentists from Texas have ever earned. Dr. Mary Mellard specializes and has a passion for smile makeovers through cosmetic dentistry. She has also practiced mercury-free dentistry for over 20 years, and helps to strengthen teeth through space-age dental adhesives and modern composite restorative materials. “Dr. Mary Mellard is a compassionate, dedicated professional whose skills make it easier for me to provide
Services available range from simple to complex and always are driven by the desire to make the dental experience a relaxed, pleasant event. From children to seniors, Mellard Dentistry strives to make each patient’s experience pleasant, comfortable and rewarding.” – Dr. Mary Mellard & Dr. Randy Mellard of Mellard Dentistry quality periodontal service,” Dr. Randy said. Dr. Randy Mellard was inspired to pursue his profession when he was working at the U.S. Public Health Service hospital in Norfolk, VA where he was serving as a Commissioned Officer resident in Hospital Pharmacy. Seeing others use their hands and minds to relieve patients of their suffering led him to apply to the University of Texas Dental School in Houston, where he earned his Master’s Degree in periodontics and has been recognized as an Associate Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry. “I have always admired his brilliant mind, caring attitude and knowledge of what needs to be done to treat a patient,” Dr. Mary Mellard said. “We both have the same philosophy about treating patients. We want to treat the patients the same way that we would want to be treated. With us both in the same office, we can consult with each other on a patient’s treatment, thus helping patients get the dental care they need in one place. Patients really appreciate not having to take time out of their busy schedules to fit in another appointment.” Besides keeping their patients happy with their services, the Mellards truly care about keeping their patients’ teeth healthy and clean. The Doctors believe that diet is key to preventing tooth decay. By limiting refined sugars and complex carbohydrates, the acid produced by bacteria that damages enamel will be reduced, thus reducing risk of cavities. Keeping up with home care for your teeth, such as regularly brushing and flossing, is also very beneficial to overall oral health. The Mellards have found that new electric and sonic tooth cleaning systems are far more efficient in removing plaque. On top of everything, making regular checkups to their office allow for them to identify any problems before they get out of hand or to take preventative measures. “Once the teeth have been restored to a good level of health, most patients can be maintained with semi-annual visits for removal of plaque, cancer screenings and fluoride application,” the Mellards explained. “This insures that any new problems can be detected as early as possible and repairs can be done conservatively. In patients who
February 2014 • Welcome Home • 78255/78256/78257
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are prone to periodontal disease, that interval should be reduced to every three to four months to allow for cleaning of bacterial pockets and application of antibacterial solutions where the patient cannot reach.” The excellent and friendly staff at Mellard Dentistry is always ready to assist and meet their patient’s needs. Their goal is to make their experience in the office a pleasant one that they can leave saying, “wow!” Through attention to detail, thoughtfulness about the patient’s wants and desires and their up to date technology, Mellard Dentistry is proud to be the dental office of choice for many. “I know we have an awesome team working with us and we make the patient our first priority,” Dr. Mary Mellard said. “Seeing the smiles on their faces when we exceed their expectations is worth more than you can imagine!” For an office that has the doctors that will meet your every need under one roof, who truly care about you as a patient, visit Mellard Dentistry. Both Dr. Mary and Dr. Randy Mellard are looking to welcome new patients to their “dental home” to make you part of their dental family. Each person has a smile to offer, and at Mellard Dentistry they want to keep it looking beautiful and clean.
Mellard Dentistry At Leon Springs 24200 Interstate Hwy. 10 W #112 210-687-1133 www.mellarddentistry.com 7
A Lifelong Love By Amanda Burris
F
inding the love of your life is not always easy. But for Harry Ferrell, 95, and his wife Thelma, 94, who have been together for 75 years, it seemed like fate. It did not take long for the intertwined couple to fall for one another. After meeting in May, when Thelma had graduated high school, they started dating in June and got married on July 29, 1938. In just the short span of three months, they had fallen in love and committed to a lifetime that would consist of ups and downs, a family, taking adventures and above all, creating a relationship that would be inspiring to so many. “I was with my cousins, there was about three of us, and we went up to this little store up by the naval air station in Corpus,” said Thelma. “I was from Flour Bluff and we were sitting there drinking a coke in the car and Harry drove up. I had never seen him before in my life and didn’t know a thing about him.” Little did both Harry, age 19 at the time, and Thelma, age 18 at the time, know, but their lives would change completely on that day, many years ago. The Ferrells, always joking with one another (especially about their age), regaled their story light heartedly with a smile. “Well, we were dancing and he asked if I could cook or sew,” Thelma joked when asked about how Harry proposed. “He didn’t say he loved me or would you marry me until he found out! So then afterwards he asked me if I would marry him, and I did.” Harry worked for Exxon for 38 years and the Ferrells built a life in Corpus Christi, Texas and Refugio, Texas. After retiring in 1979, the Ferrells spent their time traveling around the United States, with Alaska as their favorite trip in 1992. Living now at Franklin Park Sonterra, the Ferrells continually stay active by working out, joining groups and spending quality time with one another. With happiness as the clear and dominant trait seen in their home, they continued their joking spirit when asked what has kept them together so long, saying it was Thelma’s bossing Harry about. “Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t,” Harry said more seriously. “You know you argue, but you get over it.” The Ferrells have two sons, Michael (Mike) and Billy. Both are married and have children of their own. And both have gotten the opportunity to raise families with their parent’s successful relationship as a guide. “It is a wonderful thing to have a couple like them to look up to,” explained Linda Ferrell, Billy’s wife. “They have set the bar for our family really high and we all aspire to be people that live our lives in a manner that will make them proud.” With children, grandchildren and even great grandchildren it is clear that the love the Ferrells share for one another has spread to their generations of family they have helped raise. “They have experienced the past 90+ years of history,” Billy said. “They now enjoy their success with the family. They are very proud of the whole family, especially the great grandkids.” With family, age and the everyday activities of life that 75 years has brought about, the Ferrells still make spending time together one of their priorities. “They have been together so long, they worry about each other when they are apart,” Billy said. His wife Linda echoed this by saying “Harry and Thelma are a team. It is hard for me to think of one without the other.” During this season of love, it is couples like the Ferrells with their whirlwind romance who are a great example to others. Like everyone else they argue, they laugh, and experience both the good and the bad. But through all of the years together, their love holds strong and thrives.
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www.welcomehomesa.com
February 2014 • Welcome Home • 78255/78256/78257
Local Love L
By Amanda Burris
ove is in the air and many individuals in the community have their own story to tell. Whether it was how they met, what has kept them together or what they love about their spouse, each story is beautiful and unique. From all of us at Welcome Home Community Newspaper, we would like to wish the following couples that shared their stories and the rest of the community a very happy Valentine’s Day!
Mark & Kathy Clark We met on Tuesday, September 22, 1970 in San Antonio. Our first date was a picnic on Saturday, September 26, 1970. The next several weeks Mark attended a work related training class out of town. We wrote to each other several times a week. During the first week Mark sent flowers to me with a lovely message. This was the start of our beautiful relationship. A trip to the Coast, a night at the movie or an evening at home, it doesn’t matter what we are doing we enjoy being together. We were married on February 26, 1972. This year we will celebrate our 42nd Anniversary. Happy Valentine’s Day Mark, All my love, Kathy.
Tim & Bridgett Dunlap The love of my life is my high school sweetheart, Tim. I met him when I was only 15 and we were both sophomores in high school. When we graduated from high school, we got married. Tim joined the military and we moved to Florida where Tim went to Desert Storm for almost a year. After Hurricane Andrew, we moved to Washington State where we had our first son, Cody. Although we were so young, we were very much in love. For those that said it would never last, we just celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary and are still going strong. We have three wonderful boys whom we both adore. Tim works in IT at USAA (my computer nerd) and I am a teacher at Hardy Oak Elementary. We have definitely had some rough patches along the way, but I can’t imagine my life without him. He is my best friend and my forever love!
Levi & Veronica Kereti It was the summer after college that I arrived in the Philippines. I was a young girl with fresh hopes of teaching English and experiencing life outside of America. My goal was to commit one year of my life to serving, but little did I know that my heart would bring me back for another. In between my transition from year one to year two, Levi, a native New Zealander, arrived at the same campus I had been living to pursue his Master’s degree. While completing his student work hours in the admin. office, he came across my file. Immediately, he was drawn in and amazed that a 22-year-old American girl had just completed a year of study and teaching at an international school. After hearing that I had fulfilled my year and returned home, he prayed, “God if you could bring this girl across my life… that’s the one for me.” Meanwhile, my flight was booked and I was ready to head back to Asia. Our paths crossed one month later. We connected instantly with our corresponding love for education, culture, and God. We fell in love, and the rest is history. Never did we intend to find a soul mate, especially so far from “home,” but God had other plans. Levi and I, along with our two sons, will celebrate our 8th wedding anniversary this year. When life clouds our focus, we hold tight to our remarkable story, and are reminded of our special journey when our two roads fused into one. What God brought together, no man can separate.
Mike & Kelly Lepeska I met Mike in November of 1989 when our college church choir was touring the Chicago suburbs. He had graduated, but was still friends with many of those still in the choir. I was immediately taken with him, but never expected anything. He lived three and a half hours away. He visited the campus a few more times that year. In the early summer, my best friend told me to come with her to a choir get together at Mike’s family home in Wisconsin. After quite a bit of convincing on her part for me to go, I asked my parents. I never expected them to say, “yes.” We spent much of the evening talking about everything and nothing. A few days later he called and asked me out. The night of our first date, as I had four different outfits strewn across my bed, he called and let me know what he was wearing, in case I needed help. This guy has no idea how much he gets me! Being that I was still in college, and Mike was just out, we did not have a lot of money. So, we spent time talking, sharing our hopes and dreams, singing and playing the guitar-- just being together. We were married a year and a day later. On Mike’s way down to the wedding, the car caught on fire. He arrived at the church within 10 minutes of my walking down the aisle. I had no idea this was happening, and all of our loved ones went through pain staking efforts to assure that I would not know until later. Though many joked that Mike should have taken that as a sign to stay away—he said it was more of a sign to remind him of what is important, and that was to marry me. Anything can happen. In 22 ½ years of marriage, we have had four wonderful sons, lived in three different states, six different careers, had 11 different addresses, lived on opposite sleeping schedules, and lived through a deployment. Anytime we feel we are getting a little overwhelmed with whatever life is throwing at us, we take a moment to think about what is important. Love. That’s it. Happy Valentine’s Day to my forever friend, my partner in crime, my soul mate.
February 2014 • Welcome Home • 78255/78256/78257
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Toy Pick-up A Huge Success By Ben Spicer
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ack in 2012 Winter Celebration, presented by Welcome Home Community Newspaper and the non-profit Living Through Giving, collected 85 percent of the toys for the Toys for Tots program in San Antonio, collecting over 7,000 toys for local children. Bigger things were expected in 2013 and with the help of everyone in the community, both Welcome Home Community Newspaper and the non-profit Living Through Giving delivered. Toys for Tots is a nationwide organization headed by the United States Marine Corps that is aimed to change the lives of local children by keeping their spirits intact. The mission of the U. S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program is to collect new, unwrapped toys during the months of October, November and December each year and distribute those toys as Christmas gifts to the less fortunate in the community. This year, 11 local schools participated in the event. Johnson High School accumulated an astonishing 872 unopened toys, good for most in the contest. Senior Christina Werckle, Student Council Secretary at Johnson, upon reflection said she was surprised to see how many students got involved. “Every month we try to do something to give back to our community and school, so November we started planning and advertising,” Werckle said. “We had lots of organizations leading it – we got PALS, student council, all the spirit – dance & cheer, and we got the teachers involved making it a classroom contest. We really got the whole school and clubs in on it.” Junior Rachel Gawlik, Johnson student council president said it became apparent quickly the school was onto something huge. “We noticed it was getting big when we started picking up the toys from the classrooms,” Gawlik said. “We hadn’t had a goal set. But next year we’re gonna try to get at least a 100 more. We want to step it up.” As a result, Johnson was the recipient of the grand prize, a gift of $500 presented by Randolph Brooks Federal Credit Union, as well as a trophy. Johnson will be allowed to hold onto the trophy for a full year until the next Toys for Tots challenge, where they will have to win it again, or give it up to the 2014 winners.
“Since it’s for Toys for Tots, it’s really meaningful,” junior Emily Ross, Johnson student council historian said. “Not all kids get toys every Christmas. When you bring in a couple toys it’s barely anything to you, but you make that kid’s Christmas… you don’t realize how much that could mean to someone else.” Congrats to both the students and the faculty at Johnson on their outstanding work. In another interesting note, Vineyard Ranch Elementary and Wilderness Oak Elementary tallied 258 and 256 toys respectfully. The two schools were in competition with one another to see who amongst themselves could have the higher total. Well it looks like Wilderness Oak will have to wait a year to exact revenge on their friendly competitor. Welcome Home Community Newspaper, the United States Marines, and Living Through Giving would like to thank to the following schools who contributed to Toys for Tots this year: • • • • • • • • • • •
Indian Springs Elementary Rahe Elementary Monroe May Elementary Brandeis High School Vineyard Ranch Elementary Hardy Oak Elementary Wilderness Oak Elementary Bush Middle School Tuscany Heights Elementary Johnson High School Stone Oak Elementary
Wilderness Oak Elementary Grade level representatives for the Toys for Tots pick up. Kinder: Bryce Folsom; First: Johnny Flores; Second: Aidan Richard; Third: Gianna Ayon, Fourth: Alexis Ponseti, Fifth: Allison Sandoval.
Elementary students assisted Marines with the loading of toys into the military vehicle.
Thank you to the 2014 Winter Celebration prize donators: •• Broadway Bank •• Camp Gladiator •• Candlewood Suites •• Diane Belcher •• Drury Hotels •• DutchBoy Cleaners •• The Egg & I •• Fred Astair Dance Co. •• Holiday Inn •• Home Woods Suites •• Hyatt Place North Stone Oak •• JW Marriott •• Marriott North Stone Oak at Legacy •• Mays & Thousand Oaks YMCA •• Nothing Bunt Cakes •• Oak Haven Massage •• Residence Inn North Stone Oak •• Santikos •• 2 Bros BBQ
Thank you to the 2014 Winter Celebration Volunteers:
Johnson was the recipient of the grand prize, a gift of $500 presented by Randolph Brooks Federal Credit Union, as well as a trophy.
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•• Broadway Bank •• Diane Neuenschwander Schofield •• Empire Enterprise •• Fit Community •• JJ Rodriguez •• Kathy Masterson •• North Central Baptist •• Patty Labarbara •• Reagan High School HOSA •• Reagan High School Leo Club •• Reagan High School students •• Rick Carter •• Todd Bufalino •• Winston Churchill High School Students February 2014 • Welcome Home • 78255/78256/78257
Grand Prize Winner Amazed By Win By Ben Spicer
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n December 14, Welcome Home Community Newspaper and the non-profit Living Through Giving teamed up to host the 10th annual Winter Celebration, a community event filled with fun games, activities, and vendors. More than 10 thousand people attended the event, taking in the festive atmosphere while contributing to a worthy cause. For one lucky guest, Linda Wickwire, by attending it changed her life for the better. As part of the day’s activities, many guests donated an unwrapped toy and took part in a scavenger hunt on the grounds; those participating had the opportunity to win amazing prizes during the end of the day’s grand prize raffle drawing. The process for the scavenger hunt was simple: go to as many vendors on the grounds as possible, and get a card stamped to prove you had visited. Each stamp equaled 1 general prize drawing ticket and every 15 stamps equaled one Grand Prize drawing ticket. When Linda Wickwire arrived, she donated two toys for the Toys for Tots drive―one a toy Hot Wheels carwash, the other a doll sitting in a high chair. She began collecting stamps around 10:30 a.m. Despite the difficulty of getting from vendor to vendor, (she had her grandson with her who was more interested in playing) she managed to accumulate 30 stamps for two grand prize drawing tickets. “It was very well organized and laid out so that it was very easy to go from table to table,” Linda Wickwire said. By the time she was done collecting stamps at 11:40 a.m., she had resigned herself to the fact that she
wouldn’t win any prize. Many others had participated, some with several more grand prize drawings tickets. Despite the drastic odds, Linda Wickwire won the grand prize drawing. The $1000 grand prize was hers. After winning, she decided on being practical with the cash. “I gave my grandson $100 to put in his bank and bought some well needed tires for my car,” she said. When friends of hers found out about the winnings, they too were excited. “They wanted to know where I won it,” Wickwire said. “People (my friends) want to attend Winter Celebration next year.” It wasn’t just Linda Wickwire who had a good day. Many others walked away with gifts making the scavenger hunt time well spent despite not winning the grand prize. Aldolpho Alcola not only won $500 in movie passes from Stantikos, but a one night stay at a local hotel as well. The McQuin family was also extremely lucky and walked away with both a YMCA gym membership and an iPad Mini. And Dustin Ochonnor received a two night stay at Homewood Suites with breakfast. In all, more than 10 lucky guests won prizes, not including general prizes handed out throughout the day, due to the generosity of some extremely considerate vendors. A special thank you goes out to all the participants and vendors of the event. It is with their help, that Welcome Home and Living Through Giving is able to put on such a strong community event. “It’s a wonderful program for the children whether you win or not,” Linda Wickwire said. “It is fun time spent with the family.”
Grand Prize winners show off their prizes won during the Winter Celebration’s Scavenger Hunt.
Linda Wickwire with her grandson, is all smiles after finding out she had won the $1,000 cash prize.
Brandeis HS Cadets Honor Veteran’s Day Submitted By Cadet Alexandra Trevino he level of commitment shown by Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFJROTC) cadets at Louis D. Brandeis High School could not have been more evident during the first semester of the 2013-14 school year! All AFJROTC events are 100 percent cadet planned and lead with oversight and mentoring by the school’s three AFJROTC instructors. The cadets displayed their dedication to service and participated in community activities such as the school’s annual Veterans’ Day Ceremony, Blood Drive, Toys for Tots, presenting the colors at the 50th anniversary of President Kennedy’s speech in San Antonio, and many more. On November 11, 2013, the Corps of Cadets gathered around the school’s U.S. flag to honor Veterans from across the Northside Independent School District. Many veterans gathered in front of the school and were honored by the cadets and spectators. Two squadrons of AFJROTC cadets stood proudly at attention honoring the legacy of the United States Armed Forces while the narrator read the President’s Veteran’s Day proclamation. Members of the Brandeis Choir sang the national anthem followed by the Brandeis band playing all the service songs. Dr. Geri Berger, Brandeis High School Principal, commented, “The cadets did a great job and Brandeis is proud to have them.” The teachers from the History Department held a reception for all the veterans and their families following the ceremony. It was indeed a very moving
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Cadets in formation for Veteran’s Day Ceremony.
display and the veterans in attendance were all moved and honored by the ceremony. One of the most exciting community service events for the cadets to plan was the annual Blood Drive sponsored by the South Texas Blood and Tissue Center. This is an event the entire school participates in, with students, teachers and parents all having the opportunity to donate blood. This school year was the second year the Brandeis cadets hosted the Blood Drive, where over 100 units of blood were donated. Each unit can save the lives of three people. The cadets and school are very proud of this achievement Another way the AFJROTC serves the community is by contributing to Toys for Toys, an organization inspired by the United States Marine Corps that provides new toys for children who rarely receive them. All the cadets made a strong effort to make sure each child received a toy, with over one hundred toys--ranging from Legos to
February 2014 • Welcome Home • 78255/78256/78257
Barbies, toy cars to stuffed animals--being collected. The cadets are certain all the toys will be cherished. Brandeis AFJROTC was also honored with a specific request to present the Colors to kick off “Remembering the Legacy of President John F. Kennedy, 19171963,” a special event held at Brooks CityBase commemorating the President’s visit to San Antonio 50 years ago. The cadets did an outstanding job representing the U.S. Air Force, Northside Independent School District, Brandeis High School and the TX20083 AFJROTC Detachment. Knowing the San Antonio Food Bank would be in need for food donations during the holiday season, the cadets partnered with several departments within the Brandeis to collect much needed food items. For the past six years, AFJROTC cadets contributed to putting food on the tables of those in need here in San Antonio. Over 3,000 pounds of food were collected and donated to the Food
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Bank, including contributions made by the AFJROTC. On December 14, 2013, the AFJROTC cadets honored our fallen veterans by placing a wreath on each of the hundreds of headstones at the Fort Sam Houston National cemetery. The goal is to ensure each headstone receives a wreath. While that goal has not yet been achieved, the cadets do continue doing their part in trying to make that dream happen, and also volunteer their time to place the wreaths on the headstones. Col (Ret) Patrick Lopardi and his fellow instructors, MSgt (Ret) Ken Madden and MSgt (Ret) Jim Mangiafico say they are extremely proud of all of their cadet’s volunteerism. The AFJROTC instructors teach their cadets about the Air Force core values of integrity, service, and excellence and strive to prove by their actions that they have embraced those values and use them in their everyday life.
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Male Menopause, Yes That’s Right
By Donna Becker, D.O. Enhancement of Life (210) 545-5224 he first published papers written on male menopause was in 1939 by Dr. August Werner, Assistant Prof. of Int. Medicine at St. Louis U. “It seems reasonable to believe that many if not all men pass through a climacteric period somewhat similar to that of women, usually in a less severe but perhaps more prolonged form,” said Dr. Werner. At that time, treatment consisted of 10mg of testosterone propionate 3x a week. The standard treatment today (depending on labs) ranges between 100-200mg injections
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once a week. Dr. Werner then wrote a paper describing the effects of 30mg (low dose by today’s standards) testosterone replacement as “marked increase in erectile capacity and sensitivity of penis…their previous despondency gave way to definite elation.” But what is male menopause? Is it purely a laboratory value? No. Rather, it is a constellation of symptoms plus comprehensive laboratory analysis consisting of sex hormone binding globulin, estradiol, testosterone and more. Sex hormone binding hormone (SHBG), which increases with age, binds the active form of testosterone. So to merely measure
We Keep You Rolling
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By Rusty Belden, V.P. Belden’s Automotive & Tires (210) 494-0017
mport vehicles are popular on our roads, and it’s no wonder. They can be sleek and stylish and energy efficient. Unfortunately, though, people think that finding a repair facility to fix these cars can be difficult. Because foreign made vehicles require specific knowledge and parts, people often feel that taking it to a dealership is their only choice. The good news is that Belden’s Automotive & Tires is an import specialist! Belden’s has made a concerted effort
to bring in factory-trained technicians that specialize in foreign cars like Volvo, Acura, BMW and Mercedes, to name a few. These technicians have extensive knowledge of a broad range of European and Asian imports, and we provide them with the latest diagnostic equipment as well as continuous foreign vehicle training. Additionally, we are proud to be a Bosch Service Center, which aides us in providing our customers with complete care. Customer satisfaction is
total testosterone without measuring SHBG means that the active portion of the testosterone, free testosterone, is missed along possibly with the diagnosis of low testosterone. True stories of men I have successfully treated over the past 10 years: One patient’s urologist gave him a 200mg injection of testosterone once a month. He told me that the last week of the month, he cried every night. I measured his levels, gave him a high potency compounded cream, which he applied daily. Happy, powerful and grateful, he no longer had crying spells. “The testosterone in Mexico doesn’t work, I took one injection and still felt weak and unable to perform,” said another patient. I told the nice gentleman that he needed to take a series of injections once or twice a week for several months, to fully appreciate the increase in muscle strength in the pelvis for the full wonderful effects
of testosterone replacement to manifest. I also told him that the muscles needed time to grow in the perineum and body under the influence of testosterone. I encouraged him to lose weight, exercise and take his injections faithfully every week. With my gentle encouragement, he experienced a return of strength over the next few months. Side effects and contraindications: Of course there is cancer of prostate or breast contraindication to testosterone. Blood levels need to be checked and closely followed. An urologist should perform a prostate exam to check for nodules or masses on the prostate. 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.
a top priority for all of our technicians. Because Belden’s can provide all the services that the dealerships do, we can be the one-stop shop for all major factory recommended services, such at the 30, 60, and 90K services. People often think that they must get their cars and trucks serviced at the dealership in order to maintain their factory warranty, but this is not true. Having scheduled maintenance at Belden’s can extend the life of your vehicle, while not affecting your factory warranty. Having factory trained and ASE certified technicians is of the utmost importance to us. The technicians are qualified to perform quality vehicle inspections and all minor and major repairs from brakes, belts, hoses, radiators, to simple tune-ups. All of our work is guaranteed for 18 months or 18,000 miles, which beats dealerships that warranty their work for 12 months or 12,000 miles.
We look forward to seeing you and your foreign or domestic vehicle at one of our locations, including our newest location Belden’s Alamo Garage located at Lockhill – Selma and NW Military. Thanks for allowing Belden’s Automotive and Tires to be your dealer alternative for your foreign car repair needs. Don’t forget to check us out on the web for coupons and specials at www. beldensautomotive.com. Buckle up, Drive Safe and Remember at Belden’s Automotive & Tires “We Keep You Rolling!” Belden’s Automotive & Tires has Five Locations: San Pedro: 210-494-0017; Medical Center: 210-690-1100; Alamo Garage: 210-366-1122; Boerne: 830981-9700; Bulverde Rd.: 210-481-3330. For more information, call one of the locations or visit www.beldensautomotive. com.
a club to put its name in. Thus, EcoBroncos was born. The club grew and grew, and currently has to turn people away because of too few opportunities to volunteer. Anyone can be a member of EcoBroncos, and you don’t have to be an Environmental Science student to join. Members do various community service acts, such as helping with the school recycling, picking up trash at local parks, and school projects, like the Urban Garden we’re currently working on for the school courtyard. One step at a time, Brandeis students are saving the planet. What will you do to contribute to the planets rescue mission?
Brandeis student and EcoBroncos member Caroline L. on top of a recycling bin, saving the Earth.
Brandeis Science Teacher Inspires Students By Reilly Magee lisa McCracken has been teaching various science courses for over nine years. She graduated from Texas A&M University with a Bachelor’s of Science in Genetics. Mrs. McCracken got her first teaching job at Louis HS in Louise ISD. She’s taught multiple science courses, including Chemistry, Biology, Physical Science, and her current gig, AP Environmental Science. From Louise, she moved to O’Connor High School in Northside Independent School District and then to Brandeis HS. At Brandeis, Mrs. McCracken taught both
Biology and Environmental Science, but over time the AP Environmental Science class grew so popular that it is now the only class she teaches. The class has had the opportunity to go on two field trips, one to O.P. Schnabel Park to test water from multiple ponds and lakes for various elements, and the other to the San Antonio Zoo to observe animals. In addition to teaching a pro-environment class, Mrs. McCracken also heads a proenvironment club, EcoBroncos. A few years ago, a few of her Environmental Science students wanted Earth Day shirts. However, you couldn’t have a school account without
Submitted By Paula Allen he varsity girls swim team of TMI – The Episcopal School of Texas won first place at the Palo Alto High School Invitational Meet, held Dec. 13 in the Aquatic Center at Palo Alto College. The team clinched the meet with 74 points, a 21-point lead over their closest competitor, Stevens High School. Senior Sarah McCafferty, a state champion last season in the 100-meter butterfly, captured firsts in several events. In the women’s 200-yard individual medley, McCafferty came in first, and TMI freshman Tamara Leifheit placed third; and in the 100-yard butterfly, McCafferty finished first, while TMI sophomore Grace Metz took second. The team of freshman Elizabeth Holmes,
sophomore Grace Metz, Leifheit and McCafferty placed first in both the women’s 200-yard medley relay and 200-yard freestyle relay. Holmes also finished second in the 100yard freestyle, and Metz took second in the 100-yard backstroke. “Every swim and every swimmer counted,” said TMI Head Swim Coach Stephanie Barnes, who noted that many of her team member’s times were equal or close to those posted in last year’s regional and state championships.
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TMI Swimmers Finish First At Meet
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At left: TMI’s 200-yard medley relay team of Tamara Leifheit, Grace Metz, Elizabeth Holmes and Sarah McCafferty won first place in their event at the Palo Alto High School meet Dec. 13, breaking a six-year-old school record by six seconds.
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February 2014 • Welcome Home • 78255/78256/78257
Home Care Assistance: Changing The Way The World Ages Y By Amanda Burris
our home is where countless memories have been made and continue to be cherished. It may be where your family has grown up, so they still know the route by heart to come visit. Each photo on the wall, piece of furniture you own and even the bumps and cracks all help document the time you have spent there. So when your age has taken a toll on your independence and you are faced with life-altering decisions, it is reassuring to know that Home Care Assistance is a company dedicated to providing the care you need in that special place you call home. “We provide the assistance you need to exist in your home by yourself without having to go to an assisted living facility,” said Donald Scott, the General Manager of the San Antonio office. “[Clients] get to stay in their home and enjoy their life with their comfortable surroundings and memories they have accumulated over the years.” Developed by individuals who personally understand the need for excellent caregivers for their loved ones, Home Care Assistance has now become one of the leading providers of non-medical, in-home senior care. Through a positive, balanced and educated approach, Home Care Assistance provides you or your loved ones with knowledgeable care. Allowing someone to come into your home to assist you with day-to-day tasks is one that you or your family should feel confident about. Home Care Assistance employs the most qualified caregivers who are best suited to assist clients based on their needs and preferences. “Our family has been very pleased with the service provided to us by Home Care Assistance,” said a family of a San Antonio client who is seen two days a week by a caregiver. “We had a lovely and caring person who not only provided services like light house keeping and meal preparation, but was also a much needed listener and companion.” Becoming a caregiver for Home Care Assistance is a well-developed process. The company must first approve each potential caregiver, and then they are thoroughly educated in senior care. “They have to have two years of experience, we run three background checks and we provide additional training,” Scott said. The founders of the company all have PhDs and have written six books on Senior Care. Along with the printed educational material provided, Home Care Assistance University was developed for additional online training for caregivers to enhance their client-care skills.
Caregivers provide live-in care or hourly care through Home Care Assistance. Caregiver services include, but are not limited to: • Cooking and light housekeeping • Laundry and changing of bed linens • Grocery shopping and errands • Companionship and a range of motion exercises • Bathing, dressing and grooming assistance • Transportation to doctors’ appointments, errands and activities • Assisting with walking and transferring from bed to wheelchair • Status reporting to family • Medication reminders Caregivers are employees of Home Care Assistance and are supervised by a team of care and staffing managers. This means the company takes care of the caregivers’ social security, taxes, workers’ compensation and insurance. If a caregiver is ever sick or unable to make it to a home to assist, Home Care Assistance can provide a replacement. While many get caregivers to assist in their homes, many are also needed to provide care for clients who are already living in assisted living facilities. “In such a short period of time [our mother] went from independent living to needing 24 hour care,” said the family of a full time client who lived in an assisted living facility. “When my sister and I could not be with her, [Home Care Assistance] stepped in and not only took care of her needs, but became her friend.” Finding the right caregiver for yourself or a loved one is not as simple as merely picking someone who is qualified. A caregiver should be someone who you trust in your home, to become your friend and help you with everything needed to be done so that you or a family member is happy and more independent. To get paired with the right caregiver, we do an in home assessment with a care manager who will inquire about care needs, schedule, mobility issues and relevant personal information. The care manager will work to recommend a caregiver they feel will provide the best care for the client’s situation. Once a caregiver is chosen, she will be introduced by a member of the management team of Home Care Assistance. Caregivers never show up alone on the first visit to a client’s home.
February 2014 • Welcome Home • 78255/78256/78257
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No care situation is ever the same and Home Care Assistance understands this when helping to tailor the best care plan for each client. If the client is ever unhappy or unsure about something, Home Care Assistance is happy to answer any questions or make adjustments. For family members who want to check in with a loved one but may be limited on time or are not in town, the staff will conduct online memos and notes, updates and conversations on a regular basis. In the past year, the Home Care Assistance San Antonio office has continued to grow, reaching out to more individuals to help make their lives more independent. Donald Scott and his family members all help to run the local office and are dedicated to helping families and individuals feel more at ease with the knowledge that Home Care Assistance will provide excellent care, thorough service and a possible new source of friendship. Home Care Assistance is continually growing and touching the lives of more individuals. Though growing older in unavoidable, it doesn’t mean you must give up the things that you love and cherish. Home Care Assistance is there for assistance with day-to-day needs, ultimately changing the way the world ages.
19239 Stone Oak Parkway Suite 104 San Antonio, TX 78258 210-495-6300 www.HomeCareAssistanceSanAntonio.com 13
Step Into Decorating
By Mary Lozano-Jenkins The Jenkins Interior Design Group, Inc. (210) 490-0161 he New Year is here and as everyone in any way that we can. knows, we are all starting off fresh We are often asked questions such as: Do with new design ideas and new goals you carry drapes? Do you carry flooring? in mind. Do you carry accessories? Can you help me Our one goal that remains the same is with my home and select colors? If I build taking care of our clients and listening to can you help me with any selections? their wants and desires. We are here to assist The answer to all these questions is YES!
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Should I See A Fertility Specialist?
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Dr. Summer L. James Texas Fertility Center (210) 370-3800
hen you should start an infertility evaluation and treatments is not an easy question to answer. The answer to this question depends on your circumstances. First I should explain that trying to conceive means unprotected intercourse on a relatively routine basis. Some couples will come to a fertility specialist and say that they have been having routine unprotected
intercourse for the last five years, but they have only been “trying” for the last year. They will go on to say that over the last six months they have been doing basal body temperature charts, ovulation predictor kits and timing intercourse as best they can. It is important to realize that most couples do not need to go to these lengths in order to conceive. It is typically not necessary to time intercourse perfectly with a positive
Work Smarter, Not Harder By Amanda Burris t takes a dedicated and committed individual to be part of the U.S. Air Force Academy, and that doesn’t even seem to cover it when it comes to Falon Little, a senior at TMI –The Episcopal School of Texas, who was recently accepted into the Academy. “Being appointed to the Air Force Academy has been the answer to my prayers, and I could not feel more honored, humbled and blessed to know that I will be joining the ranks of men and women who are committed to serving their country,” Little said. Little is currently the Battalion Commander of the Texas Military Institute Corps of Cadets, the top-ranking student officer of the JROTC program. Her position requires her to communicate information with the Commandant staff and then distribute the information throughout the battalion and to the company commanders. She also makes it a point to help develop
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a vision for the Corps with her classmates that includes holding the battalion to a high standard of discipline, responsibility and leadership. Little has been active and successful throughout her enrollment at TMI, which has contributed to her acceptance to the Academy. She has had to maintain a 3.9 GPA while competing in three sports a year, participating in various extracurricular activities and contributing to the TMI Corps of Cadets for six years. Little has also managed to be awarded achievements in school, the Corps and in athletics, all a testament to her drive towards excellence. “It took a lot of focus and dedication to successfully balance a heavy academic, athletic, military and spiritual life all at one time, but doing so is what made my acceptance possible,” she said. “At times, I was sleep deprived and tired, but in the end, my perseverance was worth this opportunity of a lifetime.” Getting accepted into the Air Force
With the New Year here, we are now challenged to make things happen. What can we do? Start small with one or two rooms. Freshen up with paint, new flooring and perhaps accessories. A small mini makeover is the key. Update, update, update. This is the best thing you can do for your home. Always do what creates an ambiance of relaxation and peace. Enjoy and love your home. The largest investment you will make is your home; you should love it! Have you ever heard someone say: ”I can’t have company over because my house is a mess.” Well now is the time to get it organized and beautiful!
Call us if you need some motivation and some assistance. We are here to help you love your home. Your home is your castle!
LH stick or to chart your temperatures, and lying in bed with your legs elevated is also not required! If you have resorted to these measures, something may be wrong. If you are under the age of 35 and just starting to have unprotected intercourse, then pregnancy should occur within a year. If you are not pregnant in a year’s time, then it’s time to see a fertility specialist. If you are over the age of 35 and just starting to have unprotected intercourse, then it’s okay to try for six months. If pregnancy does not occur in six months, a fertility evaluation should begin. This is because fertility declines as a woman ages, so time is more precious. If it’s been longer than six to twelve months (depending on your age), then it is time to start an evaluation. The six months over 35 and one year under 35 rule does not apply to everyone,
however. Regular ovulation results in monthly menstrual cycles, meaning you should start your period every 24 to 35 days. If your cycle is not this regular, then you may not be ovulating and you should have an evaluation to find out why and what treatments can be started to help you with ovulation. Also, if you have a history of a medical problem or exposure that is likely to reduce your fertility, you should seek help earlier. For example, if you have had chemotherapy in the past or have been diagnosed with PCOS or endometriosis, you should consider seeking help right away or sooner than what is recommended above. Dr. James is Board Certified in Reproductive Endocrinology, Infertility and Obstetrics. Call 210-370-3800 to make an appointment or receive more info on fertility testing.
Academy is something only about 1,200 out of 9,700 applicants are honored with. Little will report to the Academy on June 26 and begin six months of basic cadet training before she begins her year academically as a freshmen. “I want to see how I measure up to their standards when faced with challenges, and then work my heart out to exceed them,” Little explained. “By doing this, I hope to grow and develop into the Air Force officer this country needs to protect its freedom.” Little embraces the Air Force’s saying, “work smarter, not harder,” and hopes she can apply it by using the best of her skills and characteristics to ultimately help save lives and defend this country. Though she worked hard personally to get to the place she is today, Little realizes she couldn’t have done it alone. “When I was appointed to the Air Force Academy, I realized that it wasn’t just me who was accepted into the Air Force Academy, it was also all of the wonderful
Mary Lozano Jenkins Registered Interior Designer 210 490 0161 Jessica C. Jenkins Trevino Interior Decorator 210 464 1519 Jennifer Jenkins Interior Decorator 210 325 3772
people who have impacted my life in such selfless and positive ways,” She said. “I could not have made it to this next journey in my life without the help of my family and the wonderful teachers, coaches and mentors and TMI. Without them, I would not be the same person I am today.”
Superintendent Proposes $648 Million Bond By NISD orthside ISD Superintendent Brian T. Woods recommended that the School Board call a School Bond Election for $648.34 million following extensive study and consideration by the 250-member District-wide 2014 Citizens’ Bond Committee. For the first time, the majority of the monies requested (55 percent) would go to improve existing schools, although there are six new schools in the proposal including the next new high school. More than half of NISD’s schools are over 20 years old. Previous bond elections have been held
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every three years since 1995. However, the school district was able to extend the 2010 Bond program to four years. The Citizens’ Bond Committee comprised of parents, senior citizens, students, business representatives, taxpayers, teachers, and other staff met for seven weeks in the Fall to discuss the needs of a growing district as well as initiatives to upgrade NISD’s aging schools. The Committee endorsed the recommendation to call for an election. Trustees are expected to take action at the Board meeting on Jan. 28 beginning at 7 p.m. at 5900 Evers Road. If an election were called, it would be held May 10, 2014.
In addition to addressing growth and upgrading aging schools, other highlights of the proposal include building “bullet resistant security lobbies” at 30 elementary schools, buying 129 school buses, building classroom additions, improving technology, rebuilding aging infrastructure, airconditioning all middle and high school locker rooms, and making significant upgrades to dozens of school cafeterias, libraries and science labs, and fine arts facilities.
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The major elements of the proposal are: New Schools: $274,500,000 Future Sites: $21,250,000 Classroom Additions: $12,000,000 Renovations/Reconstruction/Upgrades: $170,970,000 Infrastructure: $71,840,000 Roofing/Waterproofing: $18,000,000 Safety & Security: $8,280,000 Technology: $47,000,000 Transportation: $15,000,000 Bond Issuance & Management: $9,500,000 TOTAL: $648,340,000
February 2014 • Welcome Home • 78255/78256/78257
Long Snapping: The Unknown Art
By Ben Spicer uring a football game, skill position players like the quarterback receive much of the attention and limelight. Another position however, handles the ball frequently and can dictate the outcome of games without many even being aware. The position of long snapper is a player who in football does a specialized job during punts, field goals, and extra point attempts. His task is to snap the ball as quickly and accurately as possible. Within the few last years, division one football programs have begun offering scholarships to long snappers. These selected few offer an important skill to their programs and give them a leg up on the competition. Coach Burt Stuart is the special teams coach at Clark High School. He was a long snapper in college and also played in the European football league. “Just take a moment and think about what we ask the snapper to do,” Coach Stuart said. “While looking backwards between his legs, he has to throw a ball anywhere from 15 to 7 yards and hit the punter or holder right on target so as not to disrupt the timing of the play. This takes time and practice to perfect.” As a snapper, one must recreate the same motion time after time. The goal is
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consistency. “Consistency and trust are musts for the punt team, or what most coaches refer to as the most important play in football,” Coach Stuart said. “It all starts with the deep snapper. Likewise, on extra points and field goals there is little margin for error based on the timing of the play and the rush. Consistency in the snap is the key to having the chance for a successful kick.” Geron Eatherly is a sophomore and is the starting long snapper at Clark High School. He’s played the position since seventh grade and receives coaching from some of the best. He was named Clark’s special teamer of the week 3 times this past season. “It is fun knowing that I can do something that not many people can do,” he said. “A lot of people don’t even know that the position exists – it is a specialty position and is a lot harder than people might think.” Coach Stuart said there are a few attributes which are musts for long snappers. The first is a dedication to perfection or a strong work ethic which Eatherly has. “Geron has a very bright future as a player,” Stuart said. “He is very coachable, has a tremendous work ethic, he’s smart, he trains in a smart fashion, and he is dedicated and committed to perfecting his craft.” Chris Rubio is nationally renowned long snapping coach based in Idaho. Last year had 70 of his snappers go to major colleges
Hello From Clark, Texas
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By NISD t sometimes takes a lifetime to know the impact you have on someone’s life. Teachers may wonder if what they are teaching is reaching their students. Here is an example of a life lesson literally saving a life years later. It was a typical beginning to the day for first-year physics teacher Clinton Woller as he finalized his lesson plan and was prepared to teach class at Brandeis High School. He then noticed that one of his students was having trouble breathing and was in distress having gotten a piece of candy lodged in her throat. He quickly recalled his fifth grade NISD “Choking Charlie” training that he learned from a nurse at Steubing ES. As he sent other students to get the campus
I Second semester is a time for competition and great performances. From all types of fine arts and athletics to ROTC and welding, our students are working hard and doing an excellent job in representing Clark, Texas. With so much to offer, please make sure to come out and see these incredibly hard working, talented, and dedicated students. Have a great month and we look forward to seeing you in Clark, Texas.
February 2014 • Welcome Home • 78255/78256/78257
Geron Eatherly.
Rubio said it is also becoming apparent colleges are beginning to come around to offering scholarships to snappers. “Some still are hesitant but that ship is sailing,” he said. “They want to just lock down a stud and forget about it for four years. The day they sign is the last day they want to speak to him until graduation.”
A Lifesaving Lesson
By Dr. Jerry Woods Principal Clark High School 210-397-5150
t the time of this publication, the Cougars will be running full speed into second semester. This is a very busy time as we are beginning the second part of this year, but preparing registration for the next school year. There are several changes for incoming 9th graders, and I will be meeting with parents regarding these changes in March after spring break. The meeting times/ place will be communicated through Hobby and Rawlinson Middle Schools and on the Clark website.
across the country. He was asked by the U.S. Army All-American Bowl to select long snappers for the game this year. “People don’t realize how truly difficult it is. A quarterback is standing upright, looking forward and can have 5 touchdowns and two interceptions in a game and would be considered an All-American. A long snapper is upside down, going backwards and must be perfect at all times.” Rubio said he has noticed an increased interest in the position as well as increase in the sheer number of people attending his camps. “My first camp had 8 kids – and that same camp 12 years later will have over 250,” he said.
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nurse and school administration, he began the Heimlich maneuver and successfully dislodged the object. The ironic twist to this story is that the campus nurse who came to assist was Claire Manning, formerly the Steubing ES school nurse who taught Wooler how to perform the life-saving maneuver. The student is fine and Woller is grateful for paying attention in class as a fifth grader. “Choking Charlie” really does save lives! Note: Periodically NISD offers free CPR/AED classes for employees, and there are a number offered next week. If interested, sign up through ERO.
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February 2014 • Welcome Home • 78255/78256/78257