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February 2014 Issue
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This Valentine’s Day, fall in love with
Jesus Christ! “I have loved you with an everlasting love.” – Jeremiah 29:11
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February 2014 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261
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February 2014 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261
Note From The Publisher
Attitude Of Gratitude
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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.
(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 James Stipp
Director Of Production Kristin Oliver
Distribution Israel Vazquez
Managing Editor Amanda Burris
Contributing Photographers Chasity Furse
Office Manager Chasity Furse
Sales Representatives Patrice Long Libby Thorman
Administrative Assistant Julia Wickwire
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February 2014 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261
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.
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On The Cover
New to the Area?
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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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.
Please call (210) 414-6200 or e-mail kathy@bconnectedusa.com.
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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.
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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 • 78260/78261
CHS Senior Inspires Through Basketball
Abby Dunkin, surrounded by her family, signed her Abby Dunkin continues to be the biggest supporter of national letter of intent to play wheelchair basketball Canyon High basketball despite not playing her senior on January 9. year.
Submitted By Jason Gordon espite playing through constant pain, Canyon High student Abby Dunkin managed to land on the AllDistrict basketball team as a sophomore. As a junior, she was averaging more than 12 points per game for the Cougarettes before it finally hurt too much to play. By the end of her junior year at CHS, Dunkin was confined to a wheelchair. She didn’t let that fact diminish her zest for life or basketball for that matter. On January 9, in front of dozens of friends, teammates, coaches and family members, Dunkin signed a national letter of intent to play wheelchair basketball at the University of Texas-Arlington. “The transition to what I was physically to what I am now has been hard, but this opportunity gives me a huge boost,” Dunkin said. “I’ve definitely learned to do your best with what you have and don’t take life for granted.” Dunkin first began having problems in middle school with what doctors diagnosed as RSD (Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome), a rare disorder of the sympathetic nervous system that is characterized by chronic, severe pain. Her symptoms worsened, and last year Dunkin was diagnosed with Dysautonomia, a malfunction of the autonomic nervous system. “One of the ways we’ve gotten through this is Abby’s incredible resolve,” said Melissa Dunkin, Abby’s mother. “She’s always stayed positive and continues to push forward no matter what. I’m so proud of her.”
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Despite not being able to play her senior year, Dunkin is a captain on this year’s Canyon High varsity basketball team and travels with the squad to every game. Head coach Marsha Hammond calls her the team’s biggest cheerleader and motivator. “Abby looks for the good in every situation, and she’s a huge motivator for our basketball team,” Hammond said. “She’s as big a part of the team as anyone we have playing, and we still list her No. 23 in our program every game. She’s a true leader in every sense of the word on our bench – it’s like having another coach. She talks to the kids as they come off the floor, and she’s there to motivate them in practice.” Dunkin’s teammates agree wholeheartedly they are a better team because of their senior captain. “I tore my ACL over the summer and it’s looking like I’m finally going to get cleared to play soon,” said fellow senior Kendra Dietert. “Abby’s been a huge inspiration for me personally on my comeback trail. She helps this team the same way. She’s always building us up and she never allows us to get down on ourselves.” Dunkin already has some wheelchair basketball experience. She’s the only girl on a team sponsored by the San Antonio Spurs, which plays in different tournaments around the state. “My ultimate goal is to play in the 2020 Summer Paralympics in Tokyo, Japan,” said Dunkin. “My coaches at UT-Arlington told me they think I have a really good shot at making the team and that they will support me in every way possible.”
Bulverde/Spring Branch Library News By Sam Salas, Librarian Bulverde/Spring Branch Library (830) 438-4864 he bad news is tax season is here. The good news is the Bulverde / Spring Branch Library and the AARP Foundation will once again be offering free income tax assistance every Friday beginning February 7 from 10:30 a.m. till 2:30 p.m. Tax assistance will also be available every second Saturday of the month beginning February 8. These free tax-aide services will continue through April 12. Services are strictly by appointment only. Those interested in making an appointment should call 830-885-2247. The AARP volunteers will help low and moderate income taxpayers, especially those 60
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years of age and older. These volunteers are trained to assist in filing certain tax forms and schedules, including the Form 1040. The AARP Tax-Aide in Bulverde is recruiting volunteers to help residents prepare and file their federal income tax. Volunteers are also needed to greet people, translate for non-English speakers, maintain computers, and make sure things run smoothly at local tax preparation sites. Volunteers will receive free classroom and online training, manuals and software to help become skilled in preparing tax returns. It is not required to be an AARP member or retiree to participate in Tax-Aide. Those interested in making an appointment should call 830-885-2247 or visit their website at www.aarp.org/taxaide.
February 2014 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261
Indian Springs Elementary Is Thankful
Submitted By Amy Rule ecember was a month of thankful giving at Indian Springs Elementary. Fourth and Fifth grade leaders worked hard together to encourage their peers to participate in three service projects on campus. The Toys for Tots and The Bulverde Food Pantry were the recipients of collections for the month. The two projects were spearheaded by the school’s outstanding fifth grade Coyote Leaders. The Coyote Leaders worked collaboratively and designed donation boxes, created a strategic plan for their location and encouraged student participation through a commercial aired on the morning video announcements. At the end of the collection, the leaders were present to see off all the donations. A third service project, Holiday Mail for Heroes, was led by the fourth and fifth grade “Military Kids,” as they referred to themselves. These students encouraged others (students, parents and teachers) to create holiday cards to be sent to both veterans and service members stationed throughout the U.S. and abroad. They volunteered many working lunches to ensure that the project was a success. In the end, several hundred holiday cards were collected. “I just think it was extraordinary the way we worked together to warm the soldiers’
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A third grader drops off a holiday card for the “Holiday Mail for Heroes” service project.
hearts,” Hannah, an ISES 5th grader said. “I am so proud that we were able to do that. I know they will appreciate it and it will bring a smile to their face.”
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A Lifelong Love By Amanda Burris
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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 • 78260/78261
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 • 78260/78261
www.welcomehomesa.com
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We Keep You Rolling By Rusty Belden, V.P. Belden’s Automotive & Tires (210) 494-0017
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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
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.
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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 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,
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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.
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 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.
Enactus Making A Difference Submitted By Paige Hutchinson rue Vineyard Ministries and the Texas State Enactus team have paired up and contributed to numerous good causes. True Vineyard Ministries is a non-profit store in San Marcos that reaches out to the most vulnerable people in Rwanda and creates environments where they are empowered to live out their full potential at work, home and in their spiritual lives. Those who volunteered with True Vineyard Ministries sold a variety of products in San Antonio at the Woman’s Club yearly vendor gathering. Enactus students have been volunteering at TVM for a couple of years now and devote multiple hours each week at the store and across different cities in Texas. Enactus students are taught the value of business and are enabling themselves, as well as others, to prepare for a better future. As one of the biggest projects, Enactus truly loves volunteering with TVM and allowing their business skills to help better the lives of women in Rwanda. True Vineyard Ministries welcome each and every widow along with her own unique healing journey before her. Many are rape survivors from the 1994 genocide, are suffering from HIV/AIDS, or have
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experienced marginalization, hunger and lack of other basic necessities. These women are also mothers to multiple children. Enactus is a global, non-profit organization that is literally changing the world through highly dedicated student teams on more than 1600 university campuses in 40 countries. Enactus offers these students the opportunity to develop leadership, teamwork, and communication skills through learning, practicing and teaching the principles of free enterprise, thereby improving the standard of living for millions in the process. The Texas State Enactus is one of the leading collegiate teams within the United States. Enactus has been helping others achieve their dreams through free enterprise education for more than 25 years. Today, Enactus is the world’s prominent and largest university-based free enterprise organization. If you would like to learn more about Enactus please visit the Enactus website, www.business.txstate.edu, or contact Sam Walton Fellow, Vicki West at vw03@ txstate.edu or 512-245-3224, Enactus President, Zachary Goss at zg1012@txstate. edu or 281-785-9189, or Paige Hutchinson at ph1127@txstate.edu or 210-618-8011.
February 2014 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261
Smithson Valley NJROTC Enrollment Increasing Special To Welcome Home n organization at Smithson Valley High School has seen their enrollment numbers skyrocket. Presently, the Smithson Valley Navy JROTC program has 173 cadets. Back in 2009, the battalion had approximately 102. Of the three JROTC programs in the Comal Independent School District, the Navy JROTC program is the largest. One possible explanation for the large enrollment figures recently is that in just four years, the organization has earned approximately 4 million dollars in scholarship money. On December 13, the Navy JROTC program was inspected by Commander Corry Juedeman, Commanding Officer of Navy Recruiting District San Antonio. “The cadets are amazing, and they really enjoy being part of a family,” Comander Judeman said. Being part of a family is a huge part of the draw. Attending a large high school often
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can be intimidating, so finding an organization like NJROTC helps many students. Students involved in NJROTC participate in voluntary workouts in the morning from 6 a.m. until 7:45 a.m., and then many students practice after school until 6 p.m. “We are very blessed to have such high caliber students that come The 2013-2014 Smithson Valley High School NJROTC. into our program,” Chief Petty Officer young adults.” Daniel Hansen, Naval Science Instructor at Besides thousands of hours of community Smithson Valley High School said. “They service, the program also offers the following are the ones that are recruiting other great competitive teams: Armed Drill, Unarmed
Five Questions To Ask About Long-Term Care Insurance Betsy Dippo State Farm (210) 496-3276
t some point, you may no longer be able to care for yourself. Long-term care services are available to assist you with a wide variety of options. It is important to be aware of how Long-Term Care Insurance can help provide the care you need in the setting you choose. 1. How could the costs of long-term care affect your finances? With long-term care costs projected to quadruple in the next 30 years, these expenses could quickly deplete your retirement savings and your family’s assets, and could dramatically affect your current standard of living. Currently nursing home services average $56,000 per year.
2. How will you afford your choice of care? • Pay for the cost yourself – Will you have enough to cover your long-term care expenses while maintaining your standard of living? • Depend on Medicare/Medicaid – Medicare pays a limited amount in certain circumstances, and Medicaid is designed only for the poorest in our communities. • Other medical insurance – Long-term care expenses generally do not qualify for coverage under most medical insurance policies. • Depend on family – This type of care is physically and emotionally demanding. Is that what you want for your family?
SBMS Takes On Romeo And Juliet
Submitted By Jack Mobley nder the guidance of Belinda Maddox, Spring Branch Middle School (SBMS) Stage Director, SBMS has successfully rolled out hit after hit. From well-known classic tales to a musical about Dr. Seuss to historical fiction, Spring Branch Middle School Theatre has
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worked wonders on a middle school stage. Their up-and-coming play, Romeo and Juliet, or the old, “You-Know-I-ReallyLove-You-But-My-Father-Really-HatesYou” blues will be another nonetheless. And don’t worry about Shakespeare and understanding his old and confusing words – the playwright, Nancy Linehan Charles, has thought of everything and has written in a few narrators so the audience can follow
• Long-Term Care Insurance – This is most likely your best choice. State Farm’s Long-Term Care Insurance policy will help you pay the expenses associated with longterm care, while helping protect your family and assets. 3. What are your options for long-term care? • In your own home • In the community • In a nursing home 4. What are your chances of needing long-term care? • After age 65, you have a 71.8 percent chance of needing some form of home health care. •40 percent of the people needing longterm care are working adults under the age 65. 5. Why choose State Farm’s LongTerm Care Insurance? State Farm gives you peace of mind with the highest ratings for financial strength and claims paying ability. Plus, you’re backed by an agent you can trust.
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Kendra Page-Baker and Airman Nic Crouse. Kendra’s brother is a second grade student in Mrs. Jessica Hall’s class. Nic’s mother, Charlotte Crouse, is a para-professional at Johnson Ranch working with students in the Special Education Department. The students had many questions they wanted answered. The students asked questions about how long they have been serving, how hard is it, how much free time to they get, what exactly are they learning, and have they had to fight in a battle. The students wrote Ms. Baker and Mr. Crouse letters and waited patiently for answers. The students were thrilled with the answers and
February 2014 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261
As your Good Neighbor agent, I can help you explore your needs and help you discover if Long-Term Care Insurance is right for you. This is an important decision. Please contact me today for details on cost, coverage, restrictions and renewability. Betsy Dippo, State Farm agent, LongTerm 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.
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along just the same. So be sure to support the theatre department and attend the Spring Branch Middle School performances on February 3 and 4 at 7 p.m. and February 5 at 5 p.m. SBMS is excited for you to become a part of the play as the theatre department adds Romeo and Juliet to their long list of achievements.
First Graders Make A Personal Connection Submitted By Stephanie Hockman irst grade students at Johnson Ranch Elementary from Robin Atchison’s and Lori Dimmit’s classes worked together to make a personal connection with veterans. At the beginning of the year students learned to write friendly letters. When Veteran’s Day approached the students learned about veterans; what they do, and how they protect our country. Students then wrote letters to soldiers they had a personal connection to from the school. Two of the soldiers written to were Private
Drill, Color Guard, Academics, Physical Fitness, Marksmanship, Orienteering, College Academic Bowl and Cyber Patriot.
Airman Nic Crouse.
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Private Kendra Page-Baker.
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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 • 78260/78261
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.
Local “Queens” For Children With Disabilities Special To Welcome Home or the past 12 years the Brighton Center has recruited some of the most talented, passionate and tenacious women in San Antonio to run for Queen of the Vine, an annual fundraising campaign that benefits the more than 2,700 children with disabilities or delays that are served by the organization each year. Through a six-month campaign, these women work to raise money through a variety of avenues. The one who raises the most funds by the Queen’s Ball, the campaign’s culminating event held in February is then crowned the 2014 Queen of the Vine. As Queen of the Vine, this woman will represent Brighton Center throughout the year but primarily during Fiesta as their official royalty for the organization’s A Taste of the Northside Fiesta event. Again this year some talented and passionate women have stepped up to the challenge. The Queen of the Vine candidates for the 2014 campaign are: Tiffany Mock Briggs, a wealth management advisor for Merrill Lynch and mother of two, ZZ Mylar, a marketing/advertising specialist and mother of six (two of which received services from Brighton), and Natalie Pfeiffer a former Director at Brighton Center and a longtime donor and volunteer and mother of two. Their campaigns officially kicked off August 1 and they have had an explosive start to their fundraising efforts causing the Brighton Center to enlarge their fundraising goal from $80,000 to $200,000; a milestone
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this year’s candidates will likely meet! Through special events, online donations and participation at the Queen’s Ball, each candidate is working hard to secure donations for the Brighton Center and to be a part of making a difference in the lives of the children with disabilities. The 2014 queen candidates are inspired by the success of last year’s Queen of the Vine Campaign where four candidates collectively raised more than $180,000 for the organization – a record breaking amount for the campaign and the organization. In the closest race to become Queen of the Vine in the campaign’s history, April Ancira came out ahead and was crowned the 2013 Queen of the Vine raising more than $77,000. Close on her heels was Dr. Karen Hasty who raised a little over $76,000 and was crowned Princess of the Vine. You might ask why these women would dedicate six-months of their lives to the Brighton Center and each will tell you a different purpose or reason. “As a larger organization in SA, we want to be a part of creating a better community but typically it’s about writing a check,” April Ancira, current Queen of the Vine said. “This was different. Running for Queen gave me an emotional bond to Brighton that I rarely get to have with other events and organizations and it felt GREAT.” This year’s candidates echo the same philosophy about giving back. Natalie Pfeiffer is running because she has “witnessed first-hand the value of inclusion and encouraging others to reach
February 2014 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261
Tiffany Mock Briggs, a 2014 Queen ZZ Mylar, a 2014 Queen of the Vine Natalie Pfeiffer, a Queen of the Vine of the Vine candidate. candidate. candidate.
their potential.” Tiffany Briggs is running because if her children needed services, “Brighton center would be their partner in learning what to do.” “We give create to Brighton Center for helping our babies succeed and get the right start in life,” ZZ Mylar said, who is running because her family has benefited directly from the services. Each of these ladies has their own reason for taking on the challenge of the 2014 Queen of the Vine but they all speak to the passion and heart that these women have for children in San Antonio and their personal desire to make a difference in the lives of children.
development through a child learning center, home based therapy services, counseling, case management and family support services to more than 2,700 children annually. Every year the Brighton Center must raise more than $1,200,000 to maintain its services and the Queen of the Vine campaign is a critical piece in making this happen. Every dollar raised through the Queen of the Vine campaign directly benefits the Brighton Center and helps set a foundation for children with disabilities that set them up for a life without limits!
ABOUT THE BRIGHTON CENTER – Brighton has been serving and supporting children with disabilities and their families in San Antonio for more than 44 years. Brighton provides child enrichment and
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K9 Corner By Catherine Laria K9 Country Club (830) 980-8476
For the Love of DOG!
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n December I spoke about working on your mental game and stepping out of your comfort zone if you wanted to achieve higher goals. In January I spoke of stepping out of your house and getting healthy with your pet. Have you done anything yet? It’s February, man, how time flies! But don’t despair. February is the month of love, so focus this month on learning to LOVE what we can do with our pet. Did you happen to get a puppy during the holidays? Are you back to your regular routine and finding the house destroyed when you return? Here are some things to try that will tie into the last couple of months and help with any love lost due to your newest addition. First off, be sure your pet gets lots of exercise before you leave the house. This is a great way for you to incorporate your own New Year’s resolution if it was getting in shape. Most of us hate mornings, but if you can kill two birds with one stone by taking your pet on a 30 minute walk before you get ready for work you both will benefit from it. Next, focus on your goals. Whether you want to compete with your pet or just make them into a better mannered housemate you
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need to put work into that. You’ll achieve your goals much faster if you plan them out. Set up mini accomplishments so it’s not so overwhelming. One week focus on sit-stay and down-stay only. Once you have success at least 80 percent of your training sessions, move on to the next goal. The bigger the goal the more you need to plan and step up. If you want to compete with your dog, don’t wait until problems have manifested and you spend more time and money fixing them. Get with the best trainers you can find (us), start early and commit hard. You’ll LOVE your success rate. If you’re having trouble getting started, sign up for a class in obedience, agility, or trick training and PAY FOR IT IN ADVANCE. Once you’ve paid for it, you’re less likely to bail before it starts because “something came up.” Classes or private lessons are a fun way to work on all three things I was focusing on: your goals, getting in shape, and most importantly, falling in LOVE with your pet. K9 Country Club is located at 31305 Oak View, Bulverde TX 78163. For more information, call (830) 980-8476 or visit www.k9countryclub.net.
Comal ISD Seats Up For Election Submitted By Jason Gordon he annual Comal ISD board of trustees’ election will be held Saturday, May 10. Candidates interested in filing for one of the two seats up for election can start doing so Wednesday, January 29. The deadline to file is Friday, Feb. 28. Comal ISD is divided into seven singlemember districts (SMD), each represented by a member of the board of trustees who serves a three-year term. For 2014, only single-member districts three and four are up for election. Currently representing SMD 3 is Jason York who has served on the board since 2012. His area covers western Comal County north of Canyon Lake and portions of Kendall and Hays counties. SMD 4, represented by Nancy Pappas,
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Agility
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is the second seat up for election this year. Pappas has been a Comal ISD board member since 2012. Her area includes mostly central Comal County. People interested in filing for one of the seats must be registered voters, live in the SMD they are filing for, and have been residents of Comal ISD for six months. Voter registration cards tell each patron their SMD number. Applications for a place on the ballot, or additional information, are available at the Comal ISD Support Services building located at 1404 IH 35 North in New Braunfels. For more information, please call 830-221-2000. For maps of the districts, please visit www.comalisd.org/Board_of_Trustees/ Board_District_Maps_2011.asp.
Obedience
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K9 Country Club & Training Academy
“Be My Valentine” Boarding Special Stay overnight Friday, February 14 and Saturday is FREE with late pick-up from 5 PM – 8 PM. Want an extra day? Stay all weekend with pick-up from 4 PM – 6 PM Sunday and only pay for two days!! Space is limited so call 830-980-8476 to book today! Mention coupon code BMV2014 to receive your FREE DAY.
• Day Camp • Overnight Boarding • Grooming
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(830) 980-8476 • 31305 Oak View, Bulverde • www.k9countryclub.net
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By Michelle Houriet, Executive Director Independence Hill Retirement Resort Community (210) 209-8956 our parents have cared for you one The key is to be informed and have way or another since the day you conversations early. Waiting can lead to were born, but someday the table feeling overwhelmed, which may prompt will turn and they will need your help. Many rash decisions and unnecessary expenses. times this is gradual and not noticed right An Independent Living or Assisted Living away, but the responsibility to recognize Community is a great alternative that will that they might need more help usually falls allow them the independence they desire on the family. yet the tidbits of help they need. Many Perhaps you noticed a change during families of our residents at Independence your recent holiday visit. Does the house Hill Retirement Community comment that seem unusually neglected or cluttered? once the burden of household chores, home Do you notice a change in their personal repairs, grocery shopping, driving, cooking hygiene or unsteadiness when walking? Is and cleaning is lifted from their parents’ it more difficult to get them to do anything shoulders, they can get on with having outside the house? fun, interacting with friends and even It is key to keep a watchful eye for signs discovering new hobbies and interests. that might mean your parents are in need of Learn more about the active lifestyle of a little extra help. Things like unexplained Independence Hill Retirement Community dents on their car may indicate vision and Independence Hill Assisted Living problems, weight loss could mean missing residents. Invite your parents to join you for meals, late payment notices for forgotten lunch any day of the week at Independence payments, bruises which could be from a Hill and they will be welcomed with open fall are all possible signs that they might arms as they check out the variety of home not be as safe staying in their home as they options available. Call (210) 209-8956 once were. today to schedule your appointment with Realizing that a parent’s physical or one of our Lifestyle Specialist. We look mental health is declining can weight heavy forward to meeting you. on the heart and is sometimes truly hard Independence Hill Retirement Resort to admit. Denying that they need help is, Community is located at 20450 Huebner however, dangerous and can prevent them Rd., San Antonio, TX 78258. For more from leading a fulfilling, independent life. information, call (210) 209-8956 or visit Once the signs are there, the harder job is to www.independencehill.com. have your parents see it too.
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Looming For Pets Submitted By Patricia Dinger ooming for Pets is a non-profit organization that was started with the sole mission of saving as many animals lives as possible. The idea for the organization was started by Mykenna and Makalyn Dinger second grade Tuscany Heights students who decided to begin selling the bracelets that they were creating with their looms to donate to animal charities. The organization has grown to include many of their friends and the name was selected with the help of Emileen and Ceile Tuohy. They have chosen San Antonio Pets Alive to be the main recipient of their fundraising efforts because they share the same mission. Looming for Pets has raised over $250 since the organization was started in September of 2013. They are credited in saving a 3-year-old Shephard mix named Teddy who was saved only minutes from being euthanized by the city’s shelter. They know we can do more. Looming For Pets asks for any and all interested children to join their efforts. You are invited to be a part of the organization by selling your loomed bracelets in the name of Looming for Pets. On February 15, from 12-3 p.m., Looming for Pets is hosting “Picnic at Petco Pavillion” located at the San Antonio Pets Alive Adoption Center at 210 Tuleta Drive, San Antonio TX 78212 (across from the zoo). They ask that everyone bring a picnic lunch, looms and the money raised so far. Participants will receive an official membership card and there will be various prizes to those who raise the most money!
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Members of looming for pets showing off the bracelets they are making for a good cause.
Looming For Pets encourages the community to participate in this important cause. You are never too small or too young to make a difference! They look forward to seeing you there! Like Looming For Pets on Facebook! For questions, email Looming4pets@ yahoo.com.
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Discoveries Thru Vision By Dr. John M. Nevelow Nevelow Eye Associates (210) 349-2437 • www.drsnevelow.com Blue light is necessary as part of our color perception and its benefits to our circadian here is a new enemy to our visual rhythms. This is our biological clock that system that has been around for a helps us get up in the mornings and go to long time but is ever increasing in sleep at night. However, not all blue light is our daily lives. This is the high-energy beneficial. There is an area of blue light that short visual wavelength of blue light. We can cause damage to our eyes and optical have known for years that the ultraviolet system. This wavelength is given off in wavelength of blue light is harmful to our LED lights, compact fluorescent light bulbs, eyes. We are now finding out that there is computer screens, digital phone screens and another component of blue light that is also tablets. With the increased use of all these harmful and can affect our daily life as well newer devices we are exposing our eyes to a as have long-term effects.
“Blue Light: Friend Or Foe?”
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new and potentially harmful area. The increased development of ocular diseases, such as corneal degeneration, cataracts at earlier ages and macular degeneration, cannot entirely be contributed to our aging population. Studies have isolated a high-energy part of the blue light, which is not entirely absorbed by the anterior structures of our eyes. Now what can be done to protect our eyes without affecting the benefits of blue light in our visual spectrum? Yellow filter lenses have been known for years to help hunters in early morning to see better. However, these types of filters block all blue light and this is not helpful. There is a new filter that can be added to your glasses that blocks only the harmful blue light while transmitting the beneficial part of the blue wavelength. These lenses help protect our eyes when
using computers, cell phones, tablets, LED and compact fluorescent light bulbs. Antireflective coatings are helpful for reflections from light, but with the addition of a blue light filter to selectively block the narrow band of blue-violet light could become an important element in preventive eye care. Nevelow Eye Associates are recommending theses new filters to all our patients for their continued ocular health. Should you want more information on this or other eye topics please contact our office at 210.349.2437 or visit us on website drsnevelow.com or on our Facebook page. John M. Nevelow, O.D., is a fellow of the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Dr. Erin M. Nevelow is a doctor of Optometry. Nevelow Eye Associates is located at 19190 Stone Oak Pkwy., Suite 120. For more information, call (210) 349-2437 or visit www.drsnevelow.com.
Army Encourages Local JROTC Submitted By Clifford A. Lopez ive students from Reagan High School and Smithson Valley High School attended the Alamo Chapter of AUSA Membership New Year Kick-Off Luncheon on Friday, January 3. Through the kindness of donations from Alamo AUSA corporate partners, JROTC cadets Cade and Curtis Lopez of Reagan High School and Ryan Alcantara, Vincent Lising and Kevin Ordonez of Smithson Valley High School had the opportunity to listen about real Army issues from two senior leaders of the Army. Gen. John F. Campbell, Vice Chief of Staff of the Army, and Sergeant Major of the Army Raymond Chandler III were keynote speakers. Gen. Campbell addressed the JROTC cadets and encouraged them to stick with the program and to listen to their instructors. He also shared that he was an Air Force JROTC cadet at Fairfield High School adding, “See what’s out there for you.” As the son of an Air Force Senior Master Sergeant, Gen. Campbell resided in San Antonio when his father was stationed at the former Brooks Air Base. Upon arriving at the Fort Sam Houston Community Center, the Joint JROTC Cadets students quickly volunteered. Barbara Hagen, Alamo AUSA VP of Programs and Special Events, appreciated the students’ contribution in placing programs and placards on each table for the 300 guests – including the head table with Gen. Campbell, Sergeant Major of the Army Chandler III, Lt. Gen. Perry Wiggins and CSM Hu Rhodes of US Army North, and Mr. Tres Kleberg, CASA to name a few.
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JROTC cadets from Reagan and Smithson Valley High School got to meet Lt. Gen. Mike Ferriter, Commander, US Army and CSM Jeffery Hartless of Installation Management Command.
Attendees also included General James T. Hill; Mr. Carroll Shubert, former SA Councilman; Mr. Romo, Director, Selective Service; Lt. Gen. Mike Ferriter, Commander, US Army Installation Command; Lt. Gen. Patricia Horoho, Surgeon General of the Army; Rear Admiral William Roberts, Commandant, Medical Education Training Campus; and Brig. Gen. Robert LaBrutta, Wing Commander, 502d Air Base Wing. One of the highlights for these Cadets was to receive and usher VIP guests to their tables. At the end of the program, the students had photo opportunities with Lt. Gen. Michael Ferriter and CSM Jeffrey Hartless of Installation Management Command, and
also with Lt. Gen. (Ret) Stephen Speakes, chapter president. Cadet Curtis Lopez, son of retired Army; Cadet Lising, son of retired Navy; and Cadet Alcantara, son of active duty Navy currently serving at the White House asked Lt. Gen. (Ret) Speakes about admission to West Point and military career choices, and he provided his best candid advice – to be smart, athletic and to visit the Academy to make sure you’re up for the challenge. Overall, it was an awesome experience for these JROTC cadets. ROTC and JROTC are encouraged to contact Alamo AUSA for opportunity to attend Chapter quarterly membership
Comal ISD School Board Members Recognized
Submitted By Jason Gordon overnor Rick Perry proclaimed January as School Board Recognition Month to help highlight the contributions of dedicated men and women who take the time to care about and get involved in local schools. Comal ISD is joining districts across the state to thank board members for voluntarily tackling the enormous job of governing local school districts. Comal ISD board members were honored at the Board of Trustees meeting January 23 for their tireless efforts on behalf of Comal
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ISD students, staff and community. “As advocates for our children, school board members face difficult challenges,” Andrew Kim, Comal ISD superintendent said. “These local citizens, our neighbors, are elected by the community to make critical decisions that directly affect the future of our youth. They devote countless hours to help ensure a quality education that will lead our students to success.” The Comal ISD school board is responsible for a total annual budget of about $200 million, more than 19,500 students, 28 campuses and more than 2,400
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employees. “The job of a school board member is not an easy one,” Kim said. “But they have the commitment to serve their community and ensure that all students are given every opportunity to excel through education. Help us show appreciation to these board members for their selflessness and their caring so much about every child enrolled in our schools.” The men and women serving Comal ISD are: David Drastata, president; David Spencer, vice president; Jason York,
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luncheons. The chapter meets on the 2nd Tuesday of the month from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. at Earl Abel’s Restaurant located at 1201 Austin Hwy #175. Alamo AUSA is a chapter of The Association of The United States Army (AUSA), a private, non-profit educational organization that supports America’s Army – active, National Guard, reserve, civilians, retirees and family members. AUSA Chapters worldwide develop programs and activities that provide community support for America’s Army through individual and corporate members.
secretary; Nancy Pappas, treasurer; Amy Freund, trustee; Stephen Smith, trustee; and Cody Mueller, trustee. “I greatly enjoy being a member of the Comal ISD Board of Trustees,” Drastata said. “All of my children have received or are receiving an excellent education in the district, and this gives me a chance to not only stay involved in the community but to give back.”
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Lego League Team Wins Competition
Tuscany Heights Loves Their Heroes
Submitted By Mireille Manzone uscany Heights Elementary recently did something nice for the servicemen and women presently overseas. Juli Campbell, the Community Service Chair of the Tuscany Heights Elementary PTA, recently had the school reach out to Hugs for Heroes, a non-profit organization based in Massachusetts that sends care packages to troops. By the time Tuscany Heights Elementary was done, they had Tuscany Heights Elementary second grader Emily Campbell showcases the candy collected 305 pounds and cards to be sent to American soldiers in Afghanistan. of candy and written If you have any questions or would like a whole box of cards! The tasty treats will any additional information about Hugs for be included in their upcoming shipments Heroes and this effort, you can call 617to the heroes in Afghanistan along with the 899-5981. notes, which often are said to be one of the To learn more about Hugs for Heroes you favorite parts of the shipments. can go to the website www.hugsforheroes. The items will be a welcome reminder com, the Facebook Page www.facebook. of home to servicemen and women amid all com/hugsforheroes, or by following on the hardships they endure on a daily basis. Twitter @hugsforheroes.
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(l-r) Bottom row: Diego Richards, Andrew Barge, Cooper Phipps, Austin Hosier, Dylan McGinnis, JR Barge, Kira Smith, and Beckham Benavides. Top row: Cloe Frey, Kyle Stanzione, Kamryn Thresher, Nicholas Finley, Marshall Tidwell, Americas Sanders, Nicolas Frey, Ethan Pollum, Abril Martinez, Lianna Davis, and Cristoval Gutierrez. Not pictured is team member Nicolas Marvelli.
Submitted By Jason Gordon he Kinder Ranch Elementary School Lego League team won first place for its research project at the Lego League competition at Brackenridge High School in San Antonio on January 11. The KRES team was composed of students in grades 3-5. They were competing with many middle school teams, which made the award even more impressive. During the competition, the KRES team presented its research and solution on the problems of abandoned or lost pets during a hurricane evacuation by performing a skit
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for the judges. Coaches are KRES teachers Cathy Lloyd, Sherry Metzger, and Kim Stanzione. This is the first of many Comal ISD campuses that will be squaring off in Lego League competitions this school year. Competitions are designed to encourage and assist teams to further develop their innovative solutions to real-world problems. Many of Comal ISD’s programs, such as its district-wide chess initiative at the 3rd and 7th grade levels, allow students to foster critical thinking and collaborative skill sets.
Smithson Valley NJROTC Conducts Highway Cleanup
Smithson Valley NJROTC Unit poses in front of the missing man formation at Randolph Air Force Base.
Special To Welcome Home he Smithson Valley Navy JROTC Unit cleaned up four miles of highway on HWY 46 in front of Smithson Valley High School on December 22. 100 cadets participated in the event, which started at 8:30 in the morning. After the highway cleanup, the cadets traveled in two buses to Randolph Air Force Base and spent the afternoon at a Christmas bowling party. “Randolph Air Force Base’s Bowling Center shut the entire facility down, turned
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out the lights, turned on the juke box, and allowed us to have the entire bowling alley to ourselves,” Commander Vincent Quidachay, Senior Naval Science Instructor said. By conducting fund raisers, the Cadets were then allowed to have a bowling party with unlimited pizza and sodas. The bowling center also held a drawing and gave away three turkeys to three lucky cadets. On the way home the cadets dropped off some stuffed animals at the Silver Tree Nursing Home in Schertz, Texas.
Local Fencers Find Gold Submitted By Velizar Iliev arrah Lee-Elabd, representing Team USA3, won the gold medal in the team competition at the 2013 Cadet European Cup in Klagenfurt, Austria on October 26. Her team won the preliminary round against Ukraine (45-43), and then defeated Serbia (45-38). In the semi-finals, they came up against another American squad, Team USA2, where the San Antonian and her teammates pulled off a 45-38 upset win. In the gold medal round Farrah and her teammates faced Romania. When Farrah stepped into the fencing strip as team anchor (the last team member to fence), her team was losing (37-40). However, with great focus and determination, she was able to reverse the losing score to win the bout 45-43. The following day, Farrah competed in the women’s individual event and placed 13th out of 174 fencers, losing in the quarter final round (12-15) to the Ukrainian Inna Brovko, who ended up taking the gold medal. With this result, Farrah earned enough points to move from 11th to 5th place in the Cadet Women’s Epee national ranking for ages 17 and under. Farrah, a sophomore at Saint Mary’s Hall, also won a Gold medal in Cadet Women’s Epee division for 17 years and under on Sunday, December 15. There she competed against 102 of the top female cadet epee fencers in North America, and in the finals she beat Kasia Nixon (Los Angeles, CA), who is currently the number one US rated fencer in the division. Farrah has qualified to compete with Team USA at the 2014 European Cadet Cup in Gothenburg, Sweden next month.
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PHOTO CREDIT: Nina
Velizar Iliev, Farrah Lee-Elabd and Viktor Svatenko gather after Farrah Lee-Elabd won a gold medal in Austria.
Saint Mary’s Hall sophomore Robin Cheong represented Team USA and competed at the 2013 Cadet European Cup in Chalons, France on November 23. Robin participated in the men’s individual event and placed 15th out of 170 fencers. Robin is currently ranked number 7 in the nation in Cadet. Both Farrah and Robin at age 15 have goals to move into the top three in the nation so they can qualify for the 2014 Cadet World Championships in Bulgaria. London Olympic medalist Kelley Hurley (San Antonio, Texas) won her fourth individual gold medal on Friday, December 13 in Dallas at the 2013 North American Cup which included fencers competing in Division I, Cadet, and Veteran events. Kelley, a two-time Olympian, claimed the title for Division I Women’s Epee by defeating Isabel Ford (Salem, OR) by a score of 15-9. Claudine Barjak, another Olympian Fencing club competitor, took the 5th place finalist medal in the Veteran-40 Women’s Epee.
February 2014 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261
Open Your Eyes To The Best Option In Vision Care:
By Amanda Burris
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I love meeting new people and visiting with the returning patients and seeing the children grow up in all of our families here. The smile of a child putting glasses on for the first time, or the joy of the new teen contact lens wearer never stops being a thrill. Vision is so important and it is a joy to help preserve and protect it for all of our patients.”
he gift of clear, accurate sight can bring wonder, beauty, excitement and increased functionality into our lives. However, over time, vision needs and concerns may change. Dr. Monica Allison at Vision Source – Dr. Monica Allison, Vision Source Stone Oak Stone Oak has been treating patients with all vision needs in the Stone Oak community since 2005. Her passion to Through comprehensive eye examinations, Dr. Allison “We have daily use lenses that over 90 percent of help each patient see clearly, regardless of their age or people surveyed cannot feel in their eyes, even at the end checks eyes, inside and out, for glaucoma, cataracts, and all vision concern, is reflected in her growing practice. Dr. Allison always envisioned running her own of the day,” Dr. Allison explained. “Dailies Total 1 offers other eye diseases. However, the eye also provides a picture optometry practice, helping families with their vision needs a revolutionary lens design that has never been on the into an individual’s overall health and can indicate whether in a personable setting. In order to provide her patients with market. For people with astigmatism or needing help up he or she may be suffering from high blood pressure, such an intimate level of care with the added benefit of close, there have been tremendous strides in contacts for diabetes, high cholesterol, reaction to medication, or other access to the latest technology, she decided to partner with astigmatism and multifocal options. We fit a large amount systemic diseases. “Looking into the eye is like looking into your body,” Vision Source, the country’s premier network of private of post-surgical patients in specialty lenses as well and practice optometrists. Her partnership with Vision Source there are some great options available, even if you’ve been explained Dr. Allison. “It gives us a clear picture of the has allowed her to tailor an advanced level of care to each told you cannot wear contacts, there may be a choice now.” arteries and veins and what’s going on with your health. With the changes in the healthcare industry, Dr. individual patient. Allison has embraced her new positioning as a type “Vision Source is a franchise, but each office is of primary care physician. She wants her patients to individually owned,” explained Dr. Allison. “We get feel that they can contact her in the case of an eye to use their buying power. There are more than 2,300 emergency, even after hours. offices and thousands of doctors, so we get better deals “All major medical insurance will take care of on things. The industry is always introducing new problems with the eye, but places like the emergency technology and other new things through us. Vision room won’t have the equipment that we have,” Dr. Source also emphasizes licensing to the highest level.” Allison said. “We take call after hours and treat all Dr. Allison ensures that her practice is equipped kinds of eye problems including infections, injuries and with the latest pieces of advanced technology and dry eye.” the best treatment options available for her patients. Vision Source Stone Oak is also one of only To document diseases of the eye, Stone Oak Vision two providers in San Antonio of Lafont eyewear, Source uses a retinal imaging system that captures sophisticated, classic, beautiful styles handmade in images of the back of the eye. They also have a digital Paris. refracting system in every doctor’s lane that is linked Dr. Allison enjoys finding the perfect solution to her to their software and lab to ensure the most accurate Lindsey Denison, O.D. and Monica Allison, O.D. patients’ vision needs. From contact lenses and glasses prescriptions. Another technology is the Optical to medical eye care and LASIK surgery consultation, Coherence Tomography (OCT). Dr. Allison is also passionate about is Orthokeratology or she is available to those who desire treatment from a “This is an instrument that obtains sub-surface images of translucent or opaque materials at a resolution equivalent to Ortho-K. Ortho-K is a non-surgical process, which actually confident professional with years of growth and experience. “I love meeting new people and visiting with the a low-power microscope,” Dr. Allison said. “It is effectively reshapes the cornea of the eye using contact lenses. The ‘optical ultrasound,’ imaging reflections from within tissue patient wears the lenses overnight, while they sleep, and returning patients and seeing the children grow up in all of to provide a straightforward method of assessing macular upon waking, enjoy clear vision all day long, without the our families here,” said Dr. Allison. “The smile of a child degeneration, glaucoma, multiple sclerosis and other assistance of contacts or glasses.“Ortho-K has been shown putting glasses on for the first time, or the joy of the new to slow down nearsightedness in children,” explained Dr. teen contact lens wearer never stops being a thrill. Vision conditions.” Stone Oak Vision Source also includes on-site labs that Allison. “My own daughter actually benefits from Ortho-K. is so important and it is a joy to help preserve and protect it can generate prescriptions the same day―even for non- It’s a great option for children because they’re not having to for all of our patients.” worry about their lenses during the day.” glare lenses. Treating children is a large part of Dr. Allison’s practice. “We get comments all the time about our high-tech office,” said Dr. Allison. “Every test has a function and She participates in the InfantSEE® program – a free public we make sure and provide the most comprehensive care health program for infants between six and 12 months to possible for our patients. It’s great to share information determine if the baby is at risk for eye or vision disorders. Although school-aged children often have their vision with patients about preventative measures that we can do to checked at school or by their family physician, it is not protect and preserve vision long-term.” New options for contact lens wearers―or those uncommon for reading, focusing or other vision problems to go undetected. interested―have also exploded onto the optometry scene.
Vision Source Stone Oak 19202 Stone Oak Pkwy, Ste 106 210-495-9020 www.visionsource-stoneoak.com
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Events begin at 8:00 am Tuscany Heights Elementary 25001 Wilderness Oak, San Antonio 78260 EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNIT Y
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Caring for Yours
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give someone you love something they’ll love Give the gift of massage this Valentine’s Day
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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.
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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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10003 NW Military Hwy Suite 1102 San Antonio, TX 78231 (210) 541-4050 www.elementsmassage.com/sanantonio Find out why people love us at facebook.com/elementsmassage
Dr. Lindsey Denison Vision Source Stone Oak
210-495–9020
www.visionsource-stoneoak.com Join us on Facebook!
19202 Stone Oak Pkwy., Suite 106 San Antonio, TX 78258
M–F: 9 AM – 6 PM • Sat: 9 AM – 3 PM
Stone Oak Business Association presents:
Small Business Tax Preparation Join us and guests speakers Judith Kenton & Cassie Meuth of ATGK, on Thursday, February 20, as we discuss key tax topics related to running your business. For just over 30 years, ATKG has specialized in tax, accounting, and advisory services for a select client base of closely held businesses and large family groups.
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Stone Oak Business Association
When: Thursday, February 20, 2014 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM Where: Franklin Park Stone Oak 21802 Encino Commons Cost: SOBA Members: $15 Non-Members: $20 Door: $25
To RSVP: 348-8233 E-mail: soba@satx.rr.com www.stoneoakbusiness.com February 2014 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261
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Giving Mom a key.
Getting caught with a pet.
Living next to Rock Star Ron.
Too many loads, too few quarters.
Discovering your landlord’s insurance doesn’t cover your stuff.
It’s a dark day indeed when you learn that your landlord’s coverage doesn’t include your things.
Betsy Dippo, Agent
That’s why you should give us a call about renter’s insurance. We’re right in the neighborhood, offering the same kind of protection millions of homeowners trust to cover their stuff.
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