A Monthly Publication Directly Mailed to the residents of The Dominion, Crown Ridge, Steeple Chase, Stage Run and surrounding areas POSTAL CUSTOMER
July 2015 Issue
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2015 Winter Celebration
Scavenger Hunt
JOIN THE FUN! With all levels of participation there is one to fit your businesses needs. Scavenger Hunt is a great way to participate in the community and get new business through your door. Diamond Gold Silver Bronze Which level will you be? Date:
Saturday, December 5, 2015
Time: Place:
10 am – 3 pm 502 Madison Oak (Parking Lot Across From North Central Baptist Hospital) FREE with the donation of a toy
Cost:
2
2015 Winter Celebration Sponsor s
Hunt RSVP: (210)348–8233 • www.WelcomeHomeSA.com www.welcomehomesa.com
July 2015 • Welcome Home • 78255/56/57
Taking The Time To Source The Finest Seafood In Texas! 9801 McCullough, San Antonio, Texas 210-377-0951 4002 East Causeway Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 361-730-1514 MARIO HESLES REALTOR®, GRI, ALHS Cell: 210-639-4807 MarioHesles@KW.com TEAM HESLES TOP 16 REAL ESTATE TEAMS IN ALL OF SATX 2015!!
Team Hesles Contracts written in March $5,048,000, Contracts written in April $4,870,000. Call, Email Or Text Mario Hesles for a FREE Market Analysis. “A gentleman, who goes out of his way to work with you, to achieve a satisfactory outcome. I recommend him, without hesitation, to all seeking to sell their property.” – Tom Baldwin SOLD
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Note From The Publisher
Enjoying San Antonio
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ast month Living Through Giving started their annual backpack drive, We Got Your Back, with the support of many of our local schools and businesses. We are hoping to collect 1000 backpacks so that kids in our community don’t have to start school without the basic need of having a backpack to carry their school supplies. Please visit livingthroughgivingsa.org to find drop off locations as this drive will continue throughout the summer. LTG will continue to have many events and drives to do what we can to make the lives of these children just a little better. Please consider becoming a sponsor or donating some of your services or time. A $10 donation will make a major difference in a child’s life here in San Antonio. As we celebrate our nation’s independence, I think about what our country represents to me. I am always proud to be an American, but during July, the feelings are especially strong. We are a nation of freedom. We are a nation that is allowed to have freedom of expression and to have our own opinion without fear of punishment or torture. As you travel to the coast or on your family vacation during the month of July, take a few minutes to reflect on the freedoms we have in this country. When you’re out and about in San Antonio and see different military men and women, take a few moments to thank them for their service and sacrifice to our country. The United States military is second to none. The sacrifices of our military are the reason we are allowed the simple freedoms we enjoy each day as citizens of America. July brings us to the heart of summer.
Many of us will be heading out to visit family or on a family road trip. While this year has brought plenty of rain remember to stay hydrated and keep your animals safe and out of the heat. If you are staying in the San Antonio area this summer go downtown and be a tourist for the day. San Antonio is up and coming and the downtown rehab project has brought a ton of new things to do. This city, while being Military City USA, also has a diverse cultural flair. I encourage you to check out the new restaurants and galleries in South Town, walk the Pearl on a Sunday morning and visit the artisans. July is also when we start preparing for our annual Winter Celebration. We are the first and largest event of our kind in San Antonio and it takes many hours of planning to make sure everyone has a great time. Winter Celebration is on its 15th year! Since partnering with Living Through Giving and North Central Baptist Hospital this event has grown to be more than we could have ever imagined. Like our Facebook page for updates on performers, vendors and Santa! If you have a group, organization or business that would like to be involved this year, please contact us at 210-348-8233. We are always trying to make our event better than it was the year before. Lastly, value those things in life that are truly precious, your loved ones and your freedom.
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20770 Hwy. 281 N. Suite 108-149 San Antonio, Texas 78258
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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 Director Of Production Kristin Oliver Writer/Copy Editors Stefanie Young Production/Graphic Design Marie Ferrante
Staff Writer Debby Seguin Distribution Israel Vazquez
Sales Representatives Patrice Long Heather Jemente Sierra Hernandez
Administrative Assistant Brittany Oliver
Contributing Writers Paula Allen Jeff Baker Marisa Garza Erin Kirwan Julie Ann Matonis
Contributing Photographer Karen Little
Retraction: June 2015 In the June 2015 issue of WH we printed Keller Williams Mario Hesles ad with SOLD across 75 Reynosa. This listing is currently under contract and has not yet been sold. We apologize for the misprint and any confusion this may have caused potential buyers and the client.
July 2015 • Welcome Home • 78255/56/57
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July 31st 5
On The Cover By Stefanie Young he City of San Antonio does a fantastic job of creating an amazing atmosphere for celebrating any holiday season, especially outdoors. There will be plenty of parades, barbecues, fireworks, and sporting events taking place if you don’t already have plans for the holiday weekend. During these events, the Welcome Home staff hopes you will join them in reflecting on the meaning of “Independence”. We would like to thank those who have served, lost someone to a national cause and to those who work to make this nation better each day. Sometimes we forget how we got to where we are, or how many resources we actually have regularly that other’s many not. This is a great city that we live in within one of the best countries Mother Earth has to offer, so live it up! Welcome Home hopes you exercise your family traditions to the fullest, enjoy great food and see some bright skylit horizons this fourth. Happy Fourth of July and remember to be safe!
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By Debby Seguin
It all started with an episode of “Little House on the Prairie.” The family had to camp under the stars and we all thought that camping looked like fun. Oh, if only you could edit real life like a movie! You could start by cutting the two weeks of preparation for a two-night stay. At home, we tend to take things like bandaids, foot spray, Q-tips, food for five, paper towels, lighter fluid, potable water, wash rags, towels, and clothing for unknown temperature ranges, for granted. Taking it all with you is whole other story. We packed and piled, and piled and packed, everything in the dining room. I looked at all the stuff and while calculating the cost of a mid-size U-Haul, thought, “Heck, why not just stay here and go mountain climbing?” We could also edit personality styles. Mine is the “figure it out as you go” personality,
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which hubby calls scatterbrained, whereas I prefer the more positive “creative freespirit,” which is normally very attractive until you get to the campsite and everyone starts demanding clean underwear and food of all things. My husband, whom I refer to as “Germ Guy,” although he prefers the more positive “hygienically perceptive,” (which is normally attractive until you are forced to sterilize the weenie fork in between marshmallows), has just begun his inventory list of various disinfectants, bug sprays, Ebola vaccine and tsetse fly netting. I am in the car with the engine running while he has barely started alphabetizing his vitamin and herb supplements into his compartmentalized container (necessary lest we succumb to vitamin deficiency on our 48 hour diet of s’mores and lukewarm weenies). Lastly, we could edit out the unlimited variety of crawly creatures, which either buzz, sting or eat everything except concrete. I own a “sounds of nature” CD that features tranquil sounds of rushing water and a variety of birdsong, which is very relaxing. But at 5 a.m., real birdsong sounds more like a college kegger, which I am in no mood for after a midnight battle with a tent flap sporting an attitude. Despite these “edits,” there are some things I would leave in: Bacon frying in the crisp, morning air, our kids playing Frisbee and fishing down by the lake instead of watching TV, my husband COOKING (oh, I mean “grilling”), and not thinking once about bills or chores or how we are going to pay for college. Come to think of it, we may go camping again real soon… Debby Seguin can be reached at writewell62@yahooI’llnevercampagain. com
July 2015 • Welcome Home • 78255/56/57
I’m Making A List, I’ll Be Checking It Twice
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s I lie here on the beach, sitting on my beach towel collecting some much needed rays of sunshine during my time off, I have begun to work on both my necessary lists for the year – the list of locations that I’ll be making guest appearances at next fall, as well as the first draft of the naughty & nice list. (There’s still time to change your ways people. Do something positive.) Upon learning again of one specific cause, I became motivated to announce and book my guest appearance early. So I decided to submit this letter to Welcome Home as my formal announcement, knowing I could be of help to such a worthy and noble cause. When I learned about what the new nonprofit Living Through Giving was attempting to achieve, I immediately felt compelled to contribute. The organization’s noble goal of making sure every San Antonio child receives a gift for the holiday season is very much like my own pursuit, and as a result I felt moved to contribute in some meaningful way. So once again I, Santa Claus, a.k.a. Saint Nick, a.k.a. Kris Kringle, a.k.a. Father Christmas, (and whole bunch of other names, let me tell you . . . ) will be making an appearance at Winter Celebration – a family event for all ages on December 5 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Winter Celebration this year is back at its roots at its North Central Baptist Hospital location. (How exciting. Every time I’ve
made an appearance there I’ve had loads of fun, I sure do enjoy taking pictures with all the kiddos. Be sure to stop by and say hello, my wife gets such joy out of meeting people.) Unfortunately however my reindeer tend to be really lazy during the early holiday time of year resting up for their big finish. As a result, I’ve again decided to fly in with my wife by AirLIFE helicopter, giving Rudolph and his gang another day off. (Boy they do sure get a lot of those. Perhaps I’m spoiling them.) For those that don’t know, every year Winter Celebration has a great community parade featuring area high school marching bands, mascots, as well as community businesses. Following the parade, attendees enjoy everything from raffle prizes, vendor booths, 60,000 pounds of snow, to school performance groups (Wow these kids are talented, WAY more than what I can do – You don’t want to see me dance or hear me sing, trust me . . . but Blitzen, boy he can sing. And Dancer, well, that’s just self-explanatory.) But Winter Celebration’s main purpose is to bring all of San Antonio together on the Northside to gather toys to benefit needy children in the area. (Something we all can agree is a worthwhile goal, right?) Through my sources I also happened to hear that will be the return of the Winter Celebration Royal Court. It’s never too early to sign up and be a part of this huge event. Reserve a booth for
this one of a kind event today. My appearance tends to be a huge deal and attracts countless people. (Not like I’m bragging or anything.) For more information on how to participate in the Stone Oak Winter Celebration, call the good folks at Welcome Home at 210-3488233 or visit their website, www. welcomehomesa.com. You’ll be glad you did! Your friendly northern neighbor,
Santa Claus
McDonald’s Leadership Development Camp Submitted By Marisa Garza reater San Antonio area McDonald’s is partnered with several high schools this year for its’ 18th Annual McDonald’s Leadership Development Camp, a Camp Mickey’s D’s Initiative, from June 8 through graduation day on June 12. The camp is a school and work collaboration that teaches students the fundamentals of the workplace and how they can create their own job success in any position. Four school districts held a free camp at 15 of its restaurants. Area school districts included North East Independent School District, Northside Independent School District, San Antonio Independent School District, and Lackland Independent School District. In most cases, these partnerships provide high school students the first opportunity for hands-on, real-life work experience practical for any job situation. “We have noticed with our students that attended past McDonald’s Leadership Development Camps is they claim ownership of the opportunity and show pride at the end of every camp day on all they have accomplished. On the first day of camp, teachers are going over the importance in showing up on time and arriving with the right attitude,” said Dr. Rosales, San Antonio ISD Sr. Executive Director of Academic Support. “Those qualities and the many others that they
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receive from the camp build their work ethic and makes the difference in their future, so San Antonio ISD is a proud partner.” During the week-long program, campers gained a variety of workrelated experience including teamwork, hospitality, safety in the workplace, problem-solving, following directions, business profitability, cleanliness, and food sanitation/safety measures. Students also learned job acquirement skills on resume writing, interviewing, and completing job applications. “The Camp focuses on developing basic work skills and understanding workplace dynamics which allows students to start building a portfolio of success for any career they choose to pursue,” said Lita Salazar, McDonald’s Leadership Development Coordinator and local McDonald’s Owner / Operator. “As local McDonald’s Owner/ Operators our goal is to provide our local youth with job readiness that will produce a better employee for not only our restaurants but for any employer.” The program, which began in 1997, has grown each year and trained more than 3,000 students to date. Upon completion of the program, graduates have the opportunity to apply for a position at McDonald’s. Camp training typically allows new hires to earn a higher start pay and the opportunity to advance more quickly as their work performance improves.
July 2015 • Welcome Home • 78255/56/57
19141 Stone Oak Pkwy
(210) 494-5858
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10003 NW Military Hwy
(210) 558-0636
11851 Bandera Rd
(210)433-1941 Helotes,TX 78023
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Bio-Identical Hormones: Blood Levels Necessary
By Donna Becker, D.O. Enhancement of Life (210) 545-5224 any doctors and even some pharmacists will give a woman hormones without ever checking a blood level. People vary tremendously in their requirements for hormones. I have patients who take Estradiol 10mg to achieve a blood level of 35-75 and others who need only 0.5mg for the same optimal result. But think about it: would any doctor give the same dose of insulin or thyroid to every patient? Of course not. In my practice are many nurses and
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doctors, including dentists, veterinarians, and medical doctors. One such professional came to me saying that she was still having terrible hot flashes. She had self-prescribed the highest dose of premarin, a synthetic estrogen derived from pregnant mare’s urine, with a synthetic progesterone-like medication. I explained to her that I only prescribe bio-identical hormones, the exact copy of the hormones that humans make in their reproductive years. I needed blood work: estradiol,
Show A Caregiver You Care
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By Kelly Schwennesen Shavano Park (210) 492-4040
amily caregivers play an essential role in the life of an aging loved one. We see it everyday, as dedicated family and friends come threw our doors to visit a resident. They are caring, compassionate, patient, giving and kind and yet their role can be exhausting, overwhelming and at times thankless. Often the job of caring for another person
is one of the hardest a person will experience in a lifetime. That is why it is so important to take the time to not only thank a caregiver for all that they do for your loved one. Even the simplest acts of kindness will go a long way in showing your appreciation. With Words – This may sound simplistic, but too many people forget how much words of appreciation matter. Remind them how much their care is appreciated. With Cards and Flowers– If you don’t get to express in words your appreciation, send a
progesterone, testosterone, as well as 2-3 pages of detailed blood work to accurately and correctly prescribe the hormones necessary to replicate herself at about age 30, the first 7-10 days of her cycle. Young women’s hormones do vary, depending on the day of their cycle. Unable to correct her moodiness, hot flashes, insomnia, and night sweats, she agreed to blood testing. Her blood levels revealed that she actually had too much estradiol, although she was suffering with hot flashes! I eliminated her temperature dysregulation and hair-trigger moodiness by giving her bioidentical estradiol as a patch, oral micronized progesterone as a capsule, and a precisely measured amount of potent testosterone cream applied to the labia minora nightly. Testosterone cream applied in this manner helps to keep the delicate tissues taunt and improve libido. Breast and uterine cancer may be increased with any type of hormone
therapy. Studies are on-going. Blood clots which could lead to heart attack and strokes also may be increased by any type of hormone therapy. We do know in the WHI study, the women taking only the synthetic estrogen did NOT suffer an increase of breast cancer, but when progestin was added, invasive breast cancer did occur. So definitely stay away from the synthetic progesterone like drugs—take only progesterone. Progesterone is so safe it is prescribed to pregnant women under certain circumstances. Get tested, know your blood levels. Get the precise amount of hormones prescribed that your blood levels dictate. 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.
card or flowers to expresses your gratitude. With a Give a Day Off – Often times family caregiver don’t ask for help from other family members. Don’t make them ask! Help relieve them of their duties for at least a day, if not longer. By taking a break they will feel re-energized. With a Crisis: During times of crisis, what a caregiver often needs is presence — the presence of a family member or a close friend — not pity, not small talk, just your presence. With Acknowledgement: Caregiving can be lonely at times. Some people who feel uncomfortable stay away, and caregivers have little time to go out. Reminding a caregiver that you are still a friend and allowing the caregiver to arrange to meet when and where it’s convenient is respectful
and compassionate. With a smile: Sometimes a simple smile is all you need to say “thanks.” With your help: Does your family caregiver help running errands? Could they use a few home-cooked meals? Offering to help someone who’s stressed is a wonderful way to express your gratitude. Shavano Park Senior Living will provide the finest in senior living with assisted living and memory care options for residents. Located Shavano Park, Texas, the expertly trained staff will provide residents with the highest standards of senior care services. For more information on Shavano Park call 210-492-4040 or visit http:// www.shavanoparkseniorliving.com.
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July 2015 • Welcome Home • 78255/56/57
Breaking Tradition
Students Tell Their Story About Being At-Risk & Overcoming Odds
By Stephen Bridge
By Aladriann Harper
T
he days grew longer and longer as I awaited the arrival of what I thought would be the beginning of my life, the acceptance letter to a nearby early college academy. This school would give me the opportunity to earn a high school diploma as well as an associate’s degree. The acceptance letter had finally arrived and I was indeed accepted. The two years that I attended this non-traditional high school were fabulous. I had learned more than expected about college life and I also gained new friends, but like any school where there are friends and there are foes. These foes came in multiples of two it had seemed. People that were once my friends exchanged their kindness for trickery and so the bullying began. It began out as something simple words and remarks as I passed. It then transformed into pushing and shoving. Then finally it merged into lies and not just any types of lies. I was not afraid that the bullying wouldn’t end but that my parents would over hear these lies and see me in a different light. I would not shame my family and I could not put myself in a ridiculous situation so I packed up my things and I left for a traditional high school. The hardest thing I had to ever see in my life was the look on my mother’s face. The disappointment I had caused my mother to endure. I was ashamed of myself for letting those kids get the best of me, but this was a choice I had to make and live with. There was no going back now. The new high school was okay. I just had this feeling in my heart as if this is not where I belonged. So I set off in search of my home. Somewhere I would not be judged. Somewhere I can learn and finish and my own pace. Somewhere that I felt welcomed. After weeks of research I found ACE. It was strange. The same feelings that I had endured for JECA were now residing in my chest. I had once faced the conflict of belonging and bullying and now that I had been accepted into ACE those worries were obsolete. While I was attending ACE I had the opportunity to work with very driven teachers. Teachers who desired their students to graduate more than some students wanted it for themselves. Whenever I had got distracted or fell asleep from the night before my teachers were pleasant and pushed me to do my best. It took me months of perseverance and dedication to overlook the hardships I had endured. The disappoint I caused. I had to become 100% honest with myself that this was not those kids fault at JECA, this was my own. This was my decision and I am glad that I had finally made the right one this time.
July 2015 • Welcome Home • 78255/56/57
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went to five different high schools during my high school career. The last time I moved was the worst however, because I moved to a place that I had never been before. The other times I had moved was into a place that I had been around at some point in my life so it wasn’t as bad. Moving to San Antonio was easy but hard at the same time. We got away from my mom’s ex fiancé. My brother and I never liked him since the day we met. However my mom had no other choice then to live with him because she couldn’t support her two sons by herself. Later that year my brother had decided to move down with us when his probation period was over. He was ready to have a new start with us. We planned for a month when he was coming down. Since he had finished paying court fees and even did a little extra community service his probation officer agreed to him being transferred to San Antonio. Just two days before he was due to arrive we got a phone call from the police department saying he had been in an accident. We drove from San Antonio all the way to Dallas at 2 a.m. When we arrived they had no good news for us. I felt like my life was over when we were given this news. For two weeks afterwards I didn’t go to school. I tried going some days but it was just so hard. Everyone knew I was gone. I didn’t have a problem initially saying what had happened but after a while it just started to get to me. I couldn’t stay there anymore with everybody asking me these questions so I just left. I walked right out the front door and nobody stopped me. This started to become a problem and the school had noticed as well. They did not push me to come to school because they knew my brother was murdered. They didn’t want to push me into doing anything I didn’t want to. They worked with some of my teachers so I would not have to completely redo my second half of my junior year. I appreciated that a lot and took four and a half months off of school. The counselors at the school recommended I attend ACE since it was hard for me to stay a whole day at school. I was reluctant at first to attend ACE. I wasn’t sure if I was ready for it yet. Thankfully my mom really pushed me to go. Since then I really started to like ACE. I feel if I hadn’t gone here I really might have never graduated high school. While at ACE I participated in Habitat for Humanity. I liked the idea of helping out other people. Coming to ACE has changed my mind set. I thought I knew what I would like to do when I finished high school. I wanted to just go get a job and be done with school. I was just sure that the last school I might go to would be a trade school. Going to ACE has made me want to continue my education so that one day I could be the one teaching.
www.welcomehomesa.com
By McKenna Lazarin efore I came to ACE I was attending Churchill High School. During that time, I had a boyfriend who I had known since I was young, and I truly believed hr was my world. Things took a turn for the worse with him and it pulled my focus completely out of school and entirely onto us. He became incredibly abusive and cheated on me countless numbers of times. I went from being a student in the top ten percent, to a girl teachers barely ever saw. The beginning of my junior year I was in five AP classes, balancing a job, and trying to still be a teenager at the same time. I was a wreck from my incredibly poor self-esteem due to the relationship. My mother was finding out about my self-destructive coping methods such as cutting myself, self-medicating with prescription pills, and drug use. Things were just spiraling downwards for me at an incredibly rapid rate; it was mortifying once I realized I was throwing away my incredibly bright future all on my own. That is what made me decide to come to ACE. Upon my first days at ACE, my attitude had already changed tremendously. I knew how wonderful of an opportunity it was to work as fast I wanted to, with having all the teachers I needed practically at my disposal. It was a little difficult prioritizing my classes on my own, of course you want to stay in the room with your friends to chat with but you know you have to be across the building taking a placement test. Eventually I grew more disciplined as graduating was becoming more realistic. The closer I was, the harder I was pushing myself to finish. I attended ACE for four months and not only did I finish on time, but actually five months earlier than my graduating class at the age of seventeen. I learned that with a little help and motivation, anything is obtainable. The teachers were always willing and happy to help; in fact I believe they enjoyed it because they could see the joy in the student’s eyes when they knew they were accomplishing something that they once viewed as an obstacle. The teachers helped me find the best me, the person I had lost years ago and was afraid would never come back. They made you feel like anything you accomplished, big or small, was something to be proud of and view as a step to your own personal success.
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Teacher Says Students Keep Him Young Submitted By Julie Ann Matonis agle eyes is on duty.” As James Bluhm hands out test papers to his economics students at Jay High School, he reminds them that he’s always watching. And for the last 50 years in Northside, he has truly seen a lot of students come and go from his classroom. Bluhm has taught thousands of students through the decades, many from the same families, and celebrated 50 years of teaching this year all in Northside ISD. But’s he not going anywhere and “eagle eyes” will be back on duty in August. Bluhm is only the second NISD employee honored for 50 years of service to the district. He says his goal is to make it to 60 years and he wants to retire out of Jay. “I wouldn’t want to teach anywhere else,” Bluhm says. “I love it. Every year is a new group of kids and I enjoy it more and more. I just feel young working with them.” Though he will turn 73 at the end of June, he looks forward to another milestone earlier in the month – the Jay graduation ceremony. He always attends to support his seniors, wearing the same Dallas Cowboys tie which he displays in his classroom alongside a diagram of the Alamodome he uses to point out to students where he sits every year. “I need to be there for them,” he says. “I want them to see that I care enough about them to go.” Bluhm has been a fixture at Jay High School since 1975, but began his NISD career at Rayburn Middle School in 1965 as a Texas history teacher. He then taught
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at Jay for two years before moving to Oak Hills Terrace Elementary School, Jones Middle School, and then back to Jay. He has been teaching government and economics there since 2006. “It is always special to find a teacher like Mr. Bluhm who is dedicated to educating students, but his devotion to this school in particular through the decades is what makes him truly unique,” says Jay Principal Robert Harris. “I admire his commitment to our students and community.” Students say Bluhm challenges them to work hard and they know he is invested in their futures. Even though he is nowhere near retirement himself, he gives them advice on how to start retirement accounts. He also introduces many students to the stock market with an annual stock market game that all students participate in throughout the school year. The walls of his classroom are lined with game winners’ pictures, newspapers for researching stocks, a listing of the companies, and Dallas Cowboys memorabilia. Senior Tyra Graham says Bluhm has made a tough subject easy to understand. “I think he’s amazing,” says Graham. “He’s my favorite teacher. He pushed me to get good grades and he’s always there when you need him.” Graham appreciates his dedication to Jay HS and says her aunt also had Bluhm as a teacher. Education runs in the family for Bluhm too – his mother was a teacher in Alamo Heights and his daughter works for
Bluhm has taught thousands of students through the decades, many from the same families.
Northside as a speech pathologist. (He has three children and four grandchildren.) Though Bluhm briefly considered becoming an administrator, his only detour from teaching was a 15-year summer job driving a Greyhound bus. He still uses the ticket punch, but now in the classroom to mark papers. He jokes that the biggest difference in students over the last 50 years is the use of cell phones, but says what hasn’t changed is his desire to help them be successful.
“He is a good person at heart and he cares if we pass or fail,” says senior Stephanie Sanchez. “It’s so impressive that he’s been teaching 50 years. He’s a fighter.”
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One Of A Kind: Texas Hill Country Peaches
By Tanji Patton GoodTaste (210) 273-3155 ave you tried the Hill Country peaches yet? The juicy Texas treats are already popping up on restaurant menus—my first taste of the sweet sensations was recently at Zinc Wine Bar and Bistro where they were served with an ice cream creation, and Twin Sisters whipped their stash into a tangy, sweet jam that was part of a tasty turkey sandwich with goat cheese. YUM!
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When they arrive each summer unscathed by late frosts or spring hails, many Texans breathe a sigh of relief...including yours truly! Telling someone that Hill Country peaches are in is almost as much a part of summertime conversation as talking about the heat. Peach stands have already set up shop along roadsides, which is why we’ve gathered together some of our favorite peach
fixings for the season. Word is the crop looks to be the best since 2010, and all this rain has made for a bountiful harvest! Perhaps the best variety of all, the Freestones, will be here soon! Why not raise a glass to that good news with a Frozen Peach Margarita or a Peach Nectar Champagne (I use Enza Prosecco) each made with real ripe Texas peaches. Those refreshing drinks are just the starters—we assembled some delicious peach dishes http://goodtaste.tv, some from very high profile chefs and some from often the best chef of all—Mom! Everything from a tangy peach and pecan salad from our friend Chef Danny Trace at Brennan’s of Houston to simple cinnamon and spice peaches done on the grill courtesy of our friends at H-E-B Cooking Connection.
We even have the recipe for Peach Kolaches from Chef Denise Mazal at Little Gretel in Boerne. There are many more! In addition to the great peach recipes, we also have links to many of the Hill Country spots where you can buy or pick your own perfect peaches! While you’re on Goodtaste.tv, be sure to sign up for a chance to win a two night stay at the luxurious Houstonian Hotel and Spa that includes treatments at the award winning Trellis Spa. Cheers! Tanji is an Emmy award winning journalist pursuing her passion for wine and food. Tanji explores the inviting worlds of chefs, wine makers and culinary newsmakers. If you would like more information, she can be reached at Goodtaste@tanjipatton.com.
Bring Coastal Grilling To Your Backyard By Blake Groomer Groomer’s Seafood (210) 377-0951 an’t make it to the coast this summer? Bring the coast to you and to your grill! Enliven your backyard recipe repertoire by swapping the standbys -burgers, steaks, and chicken -- for something from the sea. Whether you go for fish, shrimp skewers, lobster or more, there’s something here at Groomer’s Seafood for every taste! I love cooking seafood on the grill because it’s so fast and, because most seafood is relatively mild, it readily absorbs smoky flavors. Also, as many know, seafood is super-healthy—it’s an excellent source of lean protein and some types of fish,
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such as salmon, are phenomenal sources of omega-3 fats, which are good for your heart and your mental health. But, seafood can be intimidating if you’ve never grilled it before and the possibility of ruining a meal can be daunting when making your summertime menus. With a few tips and tricks of the trade though, you’ll find that you too, can be a seafood grilling master! First step when grilling anything, especially fish, is to preheat your grill on high. This does a number of things. Bringing the grill up to temperature will help in caramelizing the fish and provide the defined grill marks that supply the immense flavor all grillers love. Having the grill preheated will also lessen the amount of time your fish is
on the grill, resulting in less opportunity for your fish to dry out. The second trick; use plenty of oil! Be sure after you scrape your grill grates clean with a grill brush, to oil the grill rack to reduce the chance of sticking. Third, the most common question; how long do I cook it? Use the Canadian cooking method! Do 5 minutes per side per inch of thickness. So if you have 1 inch thick steak of swordfish, cook for 5 minutes on one side, flip, and 5 minutes on the other and you’re done! It’s really that simple and so delicious. If you’re dealing with more delicate fillets or smaller seafood items like shrimp I recommend grilling on foil. If you’re cooking
larger fillets or whole fish use a grill basket to make flipping the fish over easier and the fish will be less likely to break and fall apart on you. My last and most important tip is to use good seasonings. Don’t drown your seafood in salt, MSG, and other seasonings used to mask the natural flavor of these ocean treasures. Our seasonings Giby’s Fish Camp and Rick’s Treaux Gourmet Spices let the sea, taste like the sea with just a little boost of flavor and they are all natural! As always should you have any questions please feel free to call us at 210-377-0951 or to email me at groomerseafood@gmail. com. From all your hometown seafood experts here, have a great summer and we hope to see you soon!
To All Of Our Servicemen and Women, Past and Present...
A Special “Thank You” from July 2015 • Welcome Home • 78255/56/57
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TMI Graduates All College-Bound Submitted By Paula Allen ighty seniors graduated from TMI – The Episcopal School of Texas on May 23 in the school’s All Saints Chapel. Collectively, the class was offered more than $9.5 million in college scholarships; all were accepted by four-year colleges and universities. In state, TMI graduates will attend schools including Baylor, Rice, Southern Methodist University, Texas A&M University, Trinity and the University of Texas at Austin. Out-of-state, graduates will matriculate at Boston College, Case Western Reserve, Duke, Georgetown, Tulane, the University of Chicago, Yale and Washington University in St. Louis, among many others. Hailey Carter was the recipient of the Bishop’s Cup, an annual award chosen by the faculty for the member of the graduating class who has demonstrated the finest qualities of Christian citizenship during his
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or her stay at the school. Carter served as president of TMI’s chapter of Interact, the Rotary-sponsored youth community-service organization, and will attend the University of Arkansas, Honors Program, to study biomedical engineering. Gabriela Font was the recipient of the Founder’s Award, presented in honor of the memory of the Rt. Rev. James S. Johnston to the student who best embodies the TMI mission statement: Font was a delegate to Bluebonnet Girls State last summer and received an award for her volunteer work with Girls Inc. She will attend the University of Michigan. The Rt. Rev. Gary Lillibridge, bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of West Texas, preached the homily at the Baccalaureate service, May 22, and gave the invocation and handed out diplomas at graduation with Stephen Walker, executive chairman of the TMI Board of Governors, and TMI
NISD Goes Google!
Submitted By Julie Ann Matonis f you see Marshall High School junior Rana Altayawi intently texting on her cell phone, she could be writing a paper instead of casually chatting with friends. Northside ISD went Google this academic year, providing third through 12th grade students with access to Google Apps for Education. For some of their courses, the majority of their work is done online, meaning anytime they have access to the Internet – at school, at home, or on their cell phones – they can complete assignments, conduct research, and work with their teachers and classmates. “It helps with collaboration because you can keep going beyond the classroom. I’m more comfortable online and it’s normal for us,” Altayawi says. The Google apps platform includes a virtual classroom, where teachers can create and share assignments with students,
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and apps for calendars, e-mail, and instant messaging. There are also Google Drive tools similar to Microsoft Office – word processing, spreadsheets, and presentation tools. Students have unlimited digital storage space and access to the apps 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Their e-mails can only be sent to teachers and students within Northside ISD. In Barbra Bloomingdale’s English III AP classes at Marshall High School, students estimate that with Google Apps more than 80 percent of their work is now completed online. “We’re still doing the same things we did before, but we’re just using technology to facilitate the conversations,” Bloomingdale says. Bloomingdale piloted Google Apps with her students last spring before it was expanded district-wide. It’s not mandatory that teachers use Google Apps, but in a writing-based class like English III it has
The Importance Of Family Dinners
By Steve Johnson, College Nannies + Tutors itting down around the dinner table as a family may or may not be a regular habit in your family. Kids activities, busy work schedules, and TV time may be a few things getting in the way, but be sure to make sitting down with one another a priority. Preparing and eating dinner together encourages family bonding, creates a tradition, and instills an overall healthier lifestyle for your kids. Family Bonding Encouraging everyone to gather around the dinner table allows you to open the lines of communication between you and
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your children. Utilize this time to ask how school, their peers, and other activities are going in their lives. Talking about their daily activities will encourage them to come to you with other issues, and create a healthy bond between you and your family. Creates Tradition Eating around the dinner table on a regular basis, once established, will become more “normal” than not gathering together. If you are a typical family, some days of the week are busier for your family than others. If that is the case, make sure that you are preparing a family meal around the table on the days where it is possible to do so. These habits will stick with your family for years to come,
Got Your Back 2015
By Stefanie Young o many children in Bexar County will begin the school after the summer without a backpack. At Living Through Giving [LTG], they feel that shouldn’t be the case and have begun their annual event, “Got Your Back”. After collecting more than 800 backpacks
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during the 2014 backpack drive, LTG has started collecting backpacks with participating schools and businesses. LTG will aim to break that record and collect new and slightly used backpacks to give to needy children for the upcoming school year. The purpose of the drive is to help children begin the year with the tools necessary to succeed.
Headmaster John W. Cooper, Ph.D. “Live in ways that make your family, community, your part of the world a brighter and better place because you are in it,” the bishop advised the graduates. “If you want a great life, live for great reasons.” The faculty speaker, chosen by the students, was Patrick Davis, a member of the TMI class of 1994, English teacher and head baseball coach. “Work very hard to know who you are,” Davis told the graduates. “Let other people help you with this selfdiscovery, but never allow yourself to be processed…by pressure, by accepted social norms, by education.. Work hard to find out the best things in you.” The student speaker, chosen by the faculty, was Isabel Miller, who will attend the University of Texas at Austin. “TMI has helped us lay the foundation for the masterpieces that will be our lives,” Miller told her classmates, “and now it is our job to
been a good fit. “It doesn’t make the teacher’s job harder but it requires you to adjust your mindset,” Bloomingale says. “If you’re not used to technology there can be a learning curve. There are technical issues to overcome, but the students want this. They are trying to convince other teachers to start using Google Apps.” Students have access to netbooks during class and say that the paperless environment has organizational advantages. There are no papers to lose, e-mail notifications provide important reminders, and class time isn’t the only opportunity to communicate with the teacher. “I don’t have to make time to ask questions because we can e-mail and ask questions anytime,” says junior Cristian Aguirre. “Now it’s just part of what we do.” Students also like the peer editing capabilities within assignments, allowing them to comment on each other’s work and
At TMI graduation, May 23, Headmaster John W. Cooper, Ph.D., left, and the Rt. Rev. Gary R. Lillibridge, bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of West Texas, congratulate TMI graduate Hailey Carter, recipient of the Bishop’s Cup, an award for the graduating senior who has demonstrated thefinest qualities of Christian citizenship.
leave this place with the confidence and tools to begin anew.”
Allison Pritchett, junior; Barbra Bloomingdale, teacher; and Rana Altayawi, junior.
offer suggestions. Their teacher can do the same. “I hope other classes start to integrate Google apps,” says junior David Ramirez. “It will help with college readiness because it makes you feel more responsible and independent.”
and may be a tradition your children carry on. The benefits will be well worth the effort! Healthier Habits Eating together increases your family’s level of health in many ways. Not only are you eating a home cooked meal instead of eating out at a restaurant or preparing quick packaged food—you are encouraging healthy habits for your children. Eating family dinners regularly lowers the risk of obesity in kids and teens. It also encourages better grades and imposes a routine that decreases the chances of getting caught up in less desirable behavior. Increasing the number of times each week your family has dinner together holds many
benefits for both you and your children. Making it a priority will increase family bonding and build your relationship with your kids. It will create a tradition that will hold true for years to come, and will promote healthier and more positive outcomes for them. The staff at College Nannies and Tutors encourages you to check out fun and easy recipes to make for your family. There are several great recipes on the College Nannies and Tutors’ Kid-Friendly Recipes board on Pinterest at www.pinterest.com/ collegenannies/kid-friendly-recipes.
“Being able to see the children’s faces light up while going through the backpacks, is such an emotional sight,” Russell Groomer, Living Through Giving founder and owner of Welcome Home Community Newspaper said. “Living Through Giving strives to make an impact in these children’s lives as best as we possibly can.”
Living Through Giving will be accepting backpacks or cash donations that will be used to purchase school supplies and other needs for children in the San Antonio area. If you, your business or school would like to join them in their cause, or if you have any questions, contact them at 210-384-8233.
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July 2015 • Welcome Home • 78255/56/57
Which Financial Documents Should You Keep On File? …And For How Long?
By Eric Zeitler Client Centric Wealth Management (210) 807-7599 Investment statements. Organize the any people have financial annual statements by type: IRA, 401(k), documents scattered all over the house. If this describes your “filing mutual fund, brokerage statements. Retain system,” you may have a tough time keeping the record of your original investment in a fund or a stock. tabs on your financial life. Bank statements. Keep the last three Organization will help you, your advisors ... and even your heirs. If you’ve years on file. Credit card statements. Keep statements got a meeting scheduled with an accountant, financial consultant, mortgage lender or detailing tax-related purchases for seven insurance agent, take an hour or two to put years. Mortgage documents, mortgage things in good order statements and HELOC statements. Keep Here is what you should have:
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Contractor Fees, Explained.
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By Mike and Molly Sowry Virtuoso Builders (210) 525-8750
hen you ask your Contractor for a bid, you can bet that it will include the direct costs of construction plus a markup. Some Contractors show their markup clearly while others build the mark up into the overall cost of the project. Mark ups generally cover overhead and profit but it it’s not uncommon for mark ups to include a wide range of expenses that contractors incur while doing business. This may sound unfair but if he doesn’t build in
certain costs, he cannot be solvent. What kinds of overhead costs are you paying for and how do those fees benefit you? 1. Insurance. General Liability, Workers Compensation and other insurance are considered overhead. DO NOT work with a Contractor who cannot show you their Proof of Insurance. Your Contractor should also have Proof of Insurance copies from the subcontractors they hire.
Summer Heat: Top Cause Of Transmission Failure!
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By Rusty Belden, President Belden’s Automotive & Tires (210) 494-0017
i, Rusty here for our family at Belden’s Automotive & Tires. Did you know one of the most expensive and hardest working systems of your vehicle is the transmission? Some say transmissions, depending on the vehicle, will only last a certain number of miles; however with proper regular maintenance it doesn’t have to be that way. The sizzling summer heat is the number
K9 Corner By Catherine Laria K9 Country Club (830) 980-8476
Hot Fun In The Summer Time!
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one cause of transmission failure. Guess what - the summer is here! The high temperatures, especially the heat we feel in San Antonio, causes transmission fluid to break down rendering them unable to protect and lubricate your vehicle’s transmission. Over time your vehicles transmission fluid degrades, it stops cleaning and fails to protect the hundreds of moving parts that make up the transmission. This results in hard shifting
exas weather has been all over the map but what we can always count on is the heat! So I want to remind you of the seriousness of heatstroke in your pet. All too often people think their dog will stop playing if they feel overheated or will cool themselves down. Not True! Dogs
don’t sweat like humans, so cooling down is more difficult. And the overactive dogs don’t know when to quit. Prevention is best but if you notice any of the following signs you must take action. If your pet seems listless, wobbly, pants rapidly, has labored breathing, glazed eyes, and/or red, hot ears, he may be suffering from heatstroke. At this point, just drinking water is not enough. If possible, immerse your pet in cool water (not ice cold) or lay
July 2015 • Welcome Home • 78255/56/57
you want policy information on hand for the life of the policy plus three years. Medical records and health insurance. Keep these documents around for five years after the end of any major treatment. If you can claim medical expenses, keep them for seven years. Client Centric Wealth Management may be reached at 210-807-7599 or www. ccwmgmt.com 19230 Stone Oak Parkway, Suite 315, San Antonio, Tx, 78258. Eric Zeitler, Eric Weissgarber and Michael Simpton offer securities through Sigma Financial Corporation. Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through Sigma Planning Corporation, a registered investment advisor. Client Centric Wealth Management is independent of Sigma Financial Corporation and SPC.
mortgage statements for the ownership period of the property plus seven years. Keep your mortgage documents for the ownership period of the property plus ten years. Your annual Social Security benefits statement. Keep the most recent one. Federal tax returns. The IRS wants you to keep three years of federal tax records on hand, and up to seven years to be really safe. Payroll statements. If you own a business or are self-employed, retain your payroll statements for seven years just in case the IRS comes knocking. Insurances. Life, disability, health, auto, home … you want the policies on file, and 2. Labor burden. Payroll taxes, worker’s comp, and other benefits add up to what’s known as the labor burden. That’s the overhead cost of having an employee. This burden is a benefit to the homeowner if the employee is paid well, attends construction related education classes, and so on. This translates to a workforce that is better trained and happier. 3. Transportation. This can include everything from going to and from your home to the delivery and hauling of materials. The upside for homeowners here is that the markup costs include a fleet of vehicles working for them. 4. Communication. When your Contractor arrives with his iPad taking notes and photographs or your Project Manager communicates to suppliers with his smart phone, look at this not as a luxury, but as a sign that good communication is a high
priority for the company you hired. 5. Warranty. This is not a line item figured into each project. That means warranty work is funded by net profit generated by the Contractor. Contractors that warranty their work (and not all do) pay these expenses, a nice benefit to the homeowner. For more tips on home improvement and to subscribe to our newsletter, visit www. virtuosobuilders.com Virtuoso Builders is an award winning remodeling firm raising the professional standards in the San Antonio home remodeling industry. At Virtuoso Builders, we work closely with our clients and have a reputation for developing unprecedented trust with them, which ultimately leads to the finest project results. If you would like for us to write about any specific topics or more information, contact us at info@ virtuosobuilders.com.
and slipping from your transmission, making for a very uncomfortable drive. If this is allowed to continue the results are failure of your transmission and an immediate halt of your driving. To correct the problem and remove and replace the transmission, depending on your vehicle, can cost the owner up to $4,000. Remember, inadequate fluid protection stemming from our Texas heat is the root cause for premature transmission failure. A transmission service will help prevent your transmission from sticking, shuddering or premature failure! Belden’s Automotive & Tires recommends BG Products to service your vehicle. Belden’s recommends you service your transmission every 30,000 miles, or as directed by your owner’s manual. The service will completely remove all old fluids,
dissolve and suspend deposits, and replacing it with premium transmission fluids and seal conditioners. The result will be a smoother operating transmission, free of lifeshortening deposit buildup, restoration of transmission performance, and will prolong your vehicles transmission life. Call our friendly Service Advisors today to ask our newest Chalkboard Special! As always, from our family to yours ~ Buckle up, Drive Safe and Remember at Belden’s Automotive & Tires “We Keep You Rolling!” Belden’s Automotive & Tires has Six Locations: San Pedro: 210-494-0017; Medical Center: 210-690-1100; Alamo Garage: 210-366-1122; Boerne: 830-9819700; Bulverde Rd.: 210-481-3330; Prue Rd.: 210-877-2929. For more information, call one of the locations or visit www. beldensautomotive.com
wet towels on him. You can apply ice packs to the head, neck, or belly and rubbing alcohol to the paw pads. While trying to cool your pet, contact your veterinarian or the emergency hospital. Provide adequate shade and fresh water outside. Consider a summer cut for longer haired dogs. Be careful not to have your dog shaved to the skin. Did you know dogs can sunburn? DON’T EVER leave pets inside the car! Even with the windows down, the temperature inside a car can reach 120 degrees in just 10 minutes! I’ve witnessed first-hand the aftermath of a dog that has died after accidentally being left in a closed car. It is a horrible, horrible death. PLEASE, don’t risk it!
Move your walks to cooler hours and bring water for Fido. Pavement gets very hot, and although your sneakers protect your feet, their paw pads aren’t so lucky. Keep activities short. Remember they may not want the game to stop (this includes chasing butterflies in the back yard). You can also, spend your days playing at the cool Beach Club at K9 Country Club! Whatever your solutions are, you need to be in control of the situation because it’s so much better to prevent it then to watch them suffer through it. K9 Country Club is located at 31305 Oak View, Bulverde TX 78163. For more information, call (830) 980-8476 or visit www.k9countryclub.net.
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A Dream And The Drive
Submitted By Erin Kirwan n most days you will find the 6’2 Jermaine Collier in the gym or on the basketball court. He is either training kids to become faster, stronger, and more agile at their sport, or, he is shooting hoops himself, keeping his skills as a former collegiate basketball and football player, fresh. You look at JC, as his athletes call him, and think: This guy must have played professional ball. You see his ripped, tattoocovered arms, long braids, and tall stature, and are not surprised when he dunks the basketball in a 10-foot rim. It is something that leaves kids in Stone Oak area gyms wide-eyed and mouths draping on the floor, weekly. However, it is what you do not immediately see that is most impressive about this sports performance coach. JC, who at 32 years old, still gets courted to play basketball professionally overseas, did not play a single sport on a team until his senior year in high school. JC grew up in a single-parent home in Compton, California. If you have ever seen the hit movie Training Day with Denzel Washington, you remember the scenes where Denzel returns to his neighborhood in Compton, covered by gangs, drugs, and violence. “Most of my friends and many of my family members are either in jail, or dead,” says Collier. JC did not have two parents who sought out after school sports and activities for him
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to join. JC did not have a dad or grandfather, with whom to toss a football. JC did not have someone encouraging him to do his homework or pick up a book and read. But what JC did have was an innate ability to observe his surroundings and know he did not want to go down a path marked by danger. So when his friends took to drugs and gangs, JC would go to a nearby park and dribble. He would dribble, and shoot, and shoot again until the instability around him disappeared. He got lost in his love for sports. Fast forward to a short time later, in a new city. On his own at 17 and working in a military dining hall, JC was doing what he loved most – shooting basketball – in the North Carolina base gym. A coach of a nearby small college happened, by chance, to stumble upon him. Impressed by his shooting skills and athleticism, he invited JC to practice with his team. Remember, JC did not have game footage to speak of his abilities. He did not have a coach to talk up his performance. But JC had something much more powerful. JC had a dream and the drive. JC hit the gym, ran sprints, and practiced football and basketball from sun up to sun down. He not only made the small college team, his constant drive and passion for success got him invited as a walk-on at the larger college, The University of North Carolina at Greensboro. JC played both football and basketball for UNC Greensboro and graduated, the first ever in his family history,
BUMMs To The Rescue
JC had a dream and the drive. JC hit the gym, ran sprints, and practiced football and basketball from sun up to sun down.
with a BS in Exercise and Sports Science. Today, Collier is the founder of JC Ultimate Training, a San Antonio sports performance organization. He also started a non-profit, Hoops For Health, that encourages fitness through basketball clinics. Throughout his clinics and sports performance training sessions, he is forever throwing in what his athletes have begun to call, JC’isms. They are mantras, such as “Go fourth quarter strong”, “Where there’s a will,
Morgan’s Wonderland Wins TripAdvisor Award Submitted By Bob McCullough or the fourth consecutive year, Morgan’s Wonderland theme park has earned a certificate of excellence from TripAdvisor, the world’s largest travel website, for “earning exceptional traveler ratings over the past year.” This recognition places Morgan’s Wonderland in the top-performing 10 percent of all businesses worldwide on TripAdvisor, said Stephen Kaufer, TripAdvisor president and CEO To qualify for the award, businesses must maintain an overall rating of four or higher, out of a possible five, as reviewed by travelers on TripAdvisor, and must have been listed on TripAdvisor for at least 12 months. Morgan’s Wonderland, a safe, affordable and completely wheelchair-accessible park, will be open daily through mid-August with the exception of Mondays. And just like last summer, the park will open at 9 a.m. Tuesday through Saturday to take advantage of milder morning temperatures for guest comfort and enjoyment. Late last year, TripAdvisor affiliate VacationHomeRentals.com named Morgan’s Wonderland the “best family attraction” in Texas. The top family attraction in each state can be found at www.vacationhomerentals.com/blog/bestfamily-attraction-every-state-usa/. Offering more than 25 attractions including rides, playgrounds and gardens for everyone’s enjoyment, Morgan’s Wonderland is the center of a family fun
F The BUMMs are a diverse group of Christian men notorious for their efforts to raise funds and their ability to have a good time through Christian fellowship at their monthly “Steak Breaks”.
Submitted By Jeff Baker huge Thank You from the Bulverde Food Pantry, Inc., dba Provisions goes out to the Bulverde United Methodist Mens group or commonly known as the BUMMs. The BUMMs are a diverse group of Christian men notorious for their efforts to raise funds and their ability to have a good time through Christian fellowship at their monthly “Steak Breaks”. The BUMMs are always eager to assist in church and community functions whenever a need should arise. Funds raised by the BUMMs go to support those in our church and community including funds for scholarships, Eagle Scouts, neighbors in need of assistance (yard work, meals, carpentry, moral support, etc.), church project funding, and much more. Recently a former BUMM (now working out of state) collaborated with the current BUMMs to raise funds to support
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there’s a way”, and “It just takes a dream and the drive”. They are little motivational tools, pulled from life experience far bigger than most people experience by age 32. JC shares his story of perseverance on a larger stage as well, motivating kids in connection with local fitness initiatives and public speaking events at area schools. “I want these kids, athletes and nonathletes alike, to know that with a goal and hard work, anything is possible,” says Collier. “I’m proof of that”.
the ongoing efforts by Provisions to assist the 14.1% of our community population who are food insecure. Provisions assists on the average of 7,500 people each year in our local community providing food and toiletries/personal items, clothing vouchers to The Bulverde Thrift Store, and referrals to other agencies as needed. The BUMMs made two donations in May totaling a graciously welcomed and much needed $7,000.00 dollars. This equates to $49,000.00 in food and supplies that can be purchased through our partner, The San Antonio Food Bank. If you would like more information on the BUMMs, please contact Bulverde United Methodist Church. If you would like more information on Provisions, the website is located at provisionsoutreach.org. and/or follow Provisions on Facebook at www. facebook.com/provisions.outreach.
www.welcomehomesa.com
destination known as Wonderland, Texas, said Ron Morander, general manager. Wonderland, Texas also includes the 8,000seat home of the San Antonio Scorpions pro soccer team, 2014 North American Soccer League champs; the STAR (South Texas Area Regional) Soccer Complex, with 13 first-class fields for league and tournament play; and Monarch Academy at Morgan’s Wonderland, a school for students with special needs ages 12 to 24. The latest information on Morgan’s Wonderland admissions, operating days/ hours of operation and special events/ celebrations can be found at www. MorgansWonderland.com. Morgan’s Wonderland is located at 5223 David Edwards Drive in Northeast San Antonio a half-mile west of IH 35 at the intersection of Wurzbach Parkway and Thousand Oaks Drive.
July 2015 • Welcome Home • 78255/56/57
Kelly Blue Book’s KBB.com named Subaru the
Most Trusted Brand, Lowest Cost to Own, and Best Resale Value for 2015.
0.9%
APR for 48 Months FINANCING AVAILABLE ON SELECT MODELS*
2015 Forester 2.5i • Keyless Entry with Security
• 170 HP Subaru BoxerTM Engine
• Tilt/Speed Control
• Vehicle Dynamic Control
• CD/MP3 Player
Sale Price Lease For
Some jewelry displayed patented (US Pat. No. 7,007,507) • © 2015 Pandora Jewelry, LLC • All rights reserved • PANDORA.NET
• Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
Up to 29 MPG HWY Model FFA. OPT 01
21,880 $199 $
PER MONTH/36 MONTHS $1,999 TOTAL DUE
MSRP $23,287, NP DISCOUNT $1,584. $199/MO 36 MOS. $1,800 + FIRST PYMT DUE AT SIGNING. 10K MILES/YR, $0 SECURITY DEPOSIT. / MODEL FFA. OPT 01 /STK# JG568983
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has recognized Subaru with more 2014 Top Safety Picks than any other brand. In fact, Subaru is the only manufacturer with IIHS Top Safety Picks for all models for the last five years (2010-2014). 2014
2012
july 2-12
FREE RING* with purchase of any two rings
*Free ring(s) must be of equal or lesser value to the least expensive ring purchased. Valid at participating retail stores only. While supplies last. Void where prohibited. Not valid with other PANDORA offers or prior purchases. No rain checks. Restrictions apply. See store for details.
SUBARU (Located at San Pedro) 9807 San Pedro 800.280.5780 NPSUBARU.com
SUBARU AT DOMINION 21415 IH 10 West 210.816.8000 NPSUBARUDOMINION.com
THE VINEYARD SHOPPING CENTER 1207 N. LOOP 1604 W. • STE. 106 SAN ANTONIO, TX 78258 WWW.PANDORASA.NET 210.764.1600
Vehicle Art For Illustration Purposes Only. Purchase or lease any new (previously untitled) Subaru and receive a complimentary factory scheduled maintenance plan for 2 years or 24,000 miles (whichever comes first.) See Subaru Added Security Maintenance Plan for intervals, coverages and limitations. Customer must take delivery before 12/31/15 and reside within the promotional area. At participating dealers only. See dealer for program details and eligibility.
SOBA’s
Sip and Savor Summer Mixer at Smoke Smoke The Restaurant is led by Chef Extraordinaire, Culinary Institute Instructor and Restaurateur Brian West, the Smoke Restaurant management team counts on a unique set of skills and experience necessary to prepare delectable, mouthwatering foods that are sure to please anyone’s palette. Join SOBA on Wednesday, July 22 for a taste of San Antonio’s Best BBQ. The cost of your ticket . Smoke is one of the hottest new spots in San Antonio. RSVP today to make sure you have a spot.
When: Wednesday , July 22 • 5:30 pm – 8:00 pm Where: Smoke The Restaurant 700 E. Sonterra Blvd., Suite 1117 (Behind Local Coffee)
Cost: Members & Non-Members – $25
(includes a menu tasting and one drink ticket)
E-mail: soba@satx.rr.com
Stone Oak Business Association
RSVP: 348-8233 or visit www.stoneoakbusiness. com July 2015 • Welcome Home • 78255/56/57
www.welcomehomesa.com
15
BELDEN’S
AUTOMOTIVE
29137 IH 10 West Boerne, TX 78006
& TIRES
aler e D r You native AlterWe Keep You Rolling!
$25.00 OFF
A/C SERVICE Includes Servicing, Evacuate & Recharge of A/C System, Inspect for Leaks and Check for proper operation. Includes Freon & Dye. Must be presented at time of service. Cannot be Combined with any other offer. Expires 8/15/2015. WHz5
830.981.9700 8825 Fredericksburg Rd. San Antonio, TX 78240
210.690.1100 6519 Prue Rd.
San Antonio, TX 78240
210.877.2929
Locations TO SERVE YOU
Other Locations Near You Lockhill-Selma San Pedro • Bulverde Rd. BBB
®
Texas
Approved Auto Repair
WWW.BELDENSAUTOMOTIVE.COM
CLUB HUMIDOR
Village at Stone Oak • 210-404-0707 Thousand Oaks • 210-828-1261 Huebner Rd • 210-558-7700 San Pedro • 210-824-1209 16
www.welcomehomesa.com
July 2015 • Welcome Home • 78255/56/57