City of San Antonio Customer Service (7 am to 11 pm, 7 days a week) Dial 311
Councilperson Suhk Kaur
City Council District 1
Contact person: Allison Martinez Field Office 210-207-0903
SAPD SAFFE Officer Jesus Hinojosa 210-207-1039
Email jesus.hinojosa@sanantonio.gov
MISSION STATEMENT
“To encourage the preservation of the distinctive heritage of the Monte Vista area; to keep the physical identity of this late nineteenth-early twentieth century district intact; and to educate the public, especially the youth, with knowledge of our inherited neighborhood values which contribute to a wholesome urban environment.”
Hello Everyone! Happy “Mid-Year” 2026! I’m sure glad you are here!
This issue’s letter will be brief! The fact is, it must be brief because there so much important information to share, there simply isn’t enough room for the usual “scintillating” introduction! Seriously, so much has occurred since our last issue, we just have to let the “news be the news” this quarter.
Brevity aside, I will definitely take a moment, to thank all of you — our sponsors, organizers, volunteers, and magnificent community — for an absolutely wonderful inaugural Preservation Celebration earlier this spring. Thanks to all of you we obliterated our two primary goals for this event. They were to: 1) Raise critical funds for the future of our preservation efforts; and 2) Throw a party that would be memorable for all the right reasons — fun, food, music and neighborhood connection! It was a home run by all accounts and I can’t wait for next year!
Of course, just days prior to the Preservation Celebration was our annual MVHA Easter Egg Hunt. We had a terrific turnout, as always, and the “two minutes of terror” did not disappoint! Special thanks to Dr. Tina Boylston with the Southwest Children’s Center for sponsoring our “Golden Egg” prizes, and HEB for providing the refreshments. Visual proof of the event starts on page 11.
On a more serious note, we also experienced great progress working with the City to plan and even begin addressing some of the anticipated traffic issues related to the upcoming launch of the VIA Green Line. Initial solutions will tread lightly so as not to over-steer, but more assertive solutions are being readied as well. You can stay abreast of the City’s plans and efforts via the website saspeakup.com/greenlinetrafficcalming.
MONTE VISTA HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION
2026 OFFICERS
President
Tom Archer
President-Elect
David Dickie
Past President
Lynn Boyd
Treasurer
Fred Suchy
Recording Secretary
Melody Hull
BOARD MEMBERS
Mallory Baird
Sally Bullock
Art Campsey
Suzanne Dickie
Pat DiGiovanni
Tony Garcia
Victoria German
Mike Goos
Marianne Hileman
Peter Hugill
Trudy Kinnison
Jane Lewis
Ryan Reed
Keith Sanford
Tom Seerden
Lobie Stone
Lyndsay Varner-Goodwin
Judy Warren
Rick Wilson
ADVISORY BOARD MEMBERS
Contributors
Tom Archer
Tiffany Murgo
Toni Van Buren
Suzanne Dickie
Rick Lewis
Ryan Reed
Images
David Smith
Lydia McAfee
Trudy Kinnison
Editor-in-Chief
Lydia McAfee
Additionally, our Pilot Landscape Project (page 6) continues to move forward with very encouraging results. As a reminder, this is MVHA’s effort to model a low water, drought-resistant alternative to some of the recent hardscaping options we’ve seen in the neighborhood lately. While Monte Vista is renowned for its lush green lawns, modern day challenges may make such lawns infeasible for some. This is our attempt to show a different approach, yet one that remains sensitive to our historical aesthetic.
Lastly, we said goodbye to a Monte Vista giant this spring. Early MVHA member & former President, Paul Kinnison, passed away on February 11, 2026 and will be forever missed. Over the past 50+ years his commitment to all things Monte Vista has been unrivaled. In fact, I don’t
Toni Van Buren
David Smith
OFFICE ADMIN
Lydia McAfee
Have questions about the MVHA Board? Call 210737-8212 or email mail@ montevista-sa.org for more information.
A Successful Preservation Celebration
Our first Preservation Celebration on April 9th was a huge success! Guests enjoyed a three course elevated southern comfort menu from Jason Dady Catering and entertainment from the Dirty River Jazz Band and Rob Barnett’s band.
Funds raised for MVHA help energize our efforts around engaging neighbors, advocating for the neighborhood with important external stakeholders, and protecting the architectural and cultural character that makes Monte Vista so special.
A HUGE thank you to everyone who bought tickets, table sponsors, underwriting sponsors and donated items to the raffle & ribbon pull. You all played a critical role in making this event a success.
A special thank you to the Planning Committee CoChairs - Robert Brown, Marianne Hileman, Lobie Stone and Catherine Vexler. And many other people who contributed!
We could not have done this without each and every one of you. We hope to see you at next year’s event!
by
Photos
David Smith.
REMEMBERING PAUL KINNISON
By Ryan Reed
Few individuals have had a greater influence on Monte Vista than Paul Kinnison. Thoughtful, principled, and deeply committed to preservation, he spent more than five decades helping shape and protect the neighborhood he loved.
When Paul and Trudy moved into Monte Vista in 1973 and joined the Monte Vista Historical Association the following year, the neighborhood was still in the early years of its preservation movement. Together they raised their two children, Abigail and Chance, in the home they made here. Over the next five decades, Paul became one of the neighborhood’s most dedicated leaders, serving as President of the Monte Vista Historical Association and, for many years, as Chair of the Architectural Review Committee.
To many residents, Paul was the person you called when you had a question about an old house. He possessed an extraordinary knowledge of architecture and
preservation, yet he remained approachable, patient, and generous with his time.
Those who worked with Paul quickly learned that he was fair but firm. He never hesitated to explain when a proposal was inconsistent with the character of a historic home or neighborhood, but he was equally committed to helping find thoughtful solutions. Rather than simply criticizing an idea, Paul preferred to sit down with plans, ask questions, and work collaboratively toward a better outcome. Even those who found themselves on the receiving end of a critique usually came away appreciating both his honesty and his willingness to help.
Architect and longtime Monte Vista resident Rick Lewis saw that same quality when Paul “very diplomatically” suggested that a series of oversized animal sculptures on the cliffs above the 281 south curve might not be the best first impression for visitors arriving in San Antonio from the airport. What began as a professional exchange grew into a
decades-long friendship between the Lewis and Kinnison families.
Paul’s commitment to preservation extended well beyond Monte Vista. In the early 1970s, as President of the San Antonio Chapter of the AIA, he helped lead opposition to a City plan to pave over portions of HemisFair Plaza, replacing waterways and green spaces with surface parking lots. He successfully advocated for a halt to the plan, helped secure the appointment of a citizen task force, and participated in the development of an alternative vision for the site. Many of the ideas advanced during that effort are reflected in today’s Hemisfair Park. Around the same time, he served on the City’s Bandera Expressway Study Panel, where he argued that the proposed expressway was unnecessary — a position that ultimately helped prevent a freeway that would have divided established West Side neighborhoods.
When Trinity Baptist Church sought to demolish several homes on East Mulberry Street in 1986 to construct a parking lot, Paul led the association’s effort to oppose the demolitions. The homes were ultimately lost, but the
Paul & Trudy Kinnison at the MVHA 50th Anniversary Past President luncheon in 2023
MVHA 50th Jubilee Celebration in 2023
episode galvanized the neighborhood, sharpened the association’s sense of purpose, and underscored the importance of an active and organized preservation movement.
Earlier in his career, Paul founded and directed the San Antonio Community Design Center, providing free architectural and planning assistance to more than 100 low-income families across four neighborhoods. It reflected the same belief that guided all of his work: that good design and thoughtful stewardship should be accessible to everyone.
Some of Paul’s most enduring contributions were institutional. He led the development of the neighborhood’s land use plan and wrote the recommended changes to the City’s zoning ordinance that created the Monte Vista Historic Overlay District. He was also instrumental in the development of San Antonio’s Historic Design Guidelines, which today help protect all 32 of the city’s historic districts. Other contributions were more visible. Paul chaired the committee that designed the Monte Vista street signs — the first distinctive historic district signage in San Antonio, approved by the Fine Arts Commission, the Historic Review
Board, and City Council. When the question of color stalled, Paul quietly selected the closest match he could find to Texas A&M’s Aggie Maroon. Whether residents realize it or not, a small piece of Paul’s Aggie pride stands on street corners throughout the neighborhood.
Paul was also a mentor. Many board members, committee members, and neighborhood leaders can trace their involvement back to his encouragement. He had a gift for identifying people who cared and finding ways to put their talents to use. Fellow architect and ARC member Bob Murray recalled hearing Paul’s name long before they ever met — by the time they were introduced, Bob felt he was in the presence of someone whose contributions had already achieved an almost legendary status among his peers.
His contributions were recognized nationally in 1988 when he was elevated to the College of Fellows of the American Institute of Architects. Even in recent years, Paul continued sharing his knowledge of places like the San Pedro Branch Library and San Pedro Springs Park, helping residents understand the stories behind the buildings and places that define our city.
We are grateful for Trudy’s continued involvement and service to
the neighborhood she and Paul cared so deeply about.
For more than fifty years, Paul gave his time, expertise, and energy to Monte Vista. In a 2017 interview, he described the neighborhood as “one of the larger historic neighborhoods in the nation” and added, “We want to preserve as much of that as possible.”
Few people did more to make sure that happened.
Christmas Eve at the Bushnell, 1990
Grand Marshall of the 2015 4th of July Parade
Paul & his kids at the 1983 4th of July Parade
Paul with friend, neighbor & fellow architect Rick Lewis
San Pedro Branch Library renovations
Arachnophobia to perform at 4th of July
By Tiffany Murgo
Arachnophobia is quickly becoming one of San Antonio’s most exciting young bands — and for Monte Vista residents, the group’s upcoming Fourth of July performance feels especially meaningful. Drummer and vocalist Max Murgo, who was born and raised in Monte Vista, grew up attending neighborhood events and is now taking the stage to entertain the very community that helped shape him.
Made up of talented local musicians Max, Gareth Hofmann, and Manny Rodriguez, all 15 years old, along with 17-year-old guitarist Ben Fernandez, Arachnophobia brings an energy and musicianship far beyond their years. Gareth serves as the band’s lead singer and pianist, Manny lays down the groove on bass, Ben delivers powerful guitar work, and Max drives the band with dynamic drumming and vocals.
This dynamic quartet isn’t just about covering the classics — they deliver a fresh, high-voltage mix of rock, blues, and original music that keeps audiences on their feet and asking for more. Whether performing timeless rock favorites or debuting their own songs, Arachnophobia combines youthful passion with serious musical talent.
Their live performances are packed with electrifying energy, standout musicianship, and the kind of chemistry that can only come from a group of friends who genuinely love playing together. The band has already built a growing following throughout San Antonio and continues to perform at community events and local venues.
For Max especially, performing in Monte Vista is something special. Having grown up in the neighborhood, he’s proud to represent the community alongside his bandmates and give back through music. Residents attending the Fourth ofJuly celebration can expect an unforgettable performance filled with energy, heart, and hometown pride.
As Arachnophobia continues to grow, Monte Vista can proudly say it helped launch one of San Antonio’s rising young bands.
Arachnophobia performing at various neighborhood events in the past few years.
Photos by David Smith.
Spring Into Connection: Third Thursdays
Thanks for all our hosts & to everyone that attended our recent Third Thursday socials! We had a great time socializing with neighbors. April & May photos by David Smith.
March Third Thursday at the Art of Cellaring
April Third Thursday at the home of Tom & Kimberly Archer
May Third Thursday at Landa Library
Landscape Creativity in a Time of Little Rain
By Rick Lewis
It is a pleasure to be able to title this report on the Pilot Landscape Project’s (PLP) progress in celebrating recent rains and the difference they have made in Monte Visita’s yards, gardens, and tree canopy. At this season of vigorous plant growth, even as we begin to contend with mosquitoes and the inevitable spread of weeds (aside from the intentionally planted wildflowers), it seems an appropriate time to share a PLP update. Doing so highlights the positive impact that thoughtful site planning and strategic plant selections can have in enhancing the visual character of our historic neighborhood.
Seen as a layered composition extending from the street to the berm, through the surrounding plantings, and ultimately to the house itself, the PLP approach reflects a thoughtful model of preservation-minded design. The historic dwelling remains the focal point of the site, while the large oak tree in the foreground softens its visual dominance and creates a sense of balance. Together, the architecture, landscape, and human presence form a harmonious relationship in which the house serves as both a dignified anchor of the site and a welcoming shelter for its residents.
Neighbors are encouraged to drive or walk past the PLP yard located at 324 W. Rosewood Ave.
Following the successful installation of a challenging subsurface drip irrigation system, this targeted and largely unseen watering approach will play a vital role in sustaining landscape resilience through the heat of summer.
The noticeable stone edging as separates the yard’s compact sloping grade (forming a berm) terminates at the existing concrete sidewalk, flagstones near the house allowing for discrete access to a side yard gate, as well as the more-rusticated stones as bookend and highlight the house’s entry pathway stairs, were all selected to visually coordinate with the district’s historic warm-toned gray concrete.
The recent rains left eroded channels on either side of the front entry steps so mini dry creek beds were created to handle future runoff.
As one admires the historic house’s form from Rosewood and the intentionally noticeable way that the yard transitions from low-lying ground covers extending from the street to the middle of the front yard, to bushes and shrubs huddled around the base of the house, it is important to note that such plants are short enough to avoid obscuring window openings and the main entry doorway.
PRESIDENT’S LETTER
FROM PAGE 2
believe a week has passed since the mid-seventies when Paul Kinnison wasn’t thinking about and helping our neighborhood; most recently serving on the Architectural Review Committee. We pay tribute to Paul beginning on page 4.
Let me close by mentioning that your MVHA Board is working on many items to protect and preserve our neighborhood. These efforts involve, among others, zoning and compliance enforcement, landuse protections, as well as modernizing our digital presence and strengthening our relationship with all of you. So, stay tuned!
Best Regards,
Tom Archer
President, Monte Vista Historical Association
P.S. Be sure to mark your calendars for for our 2026 Monte Vista Fourth of July parade and celebration (music, contests, wine, food, kid’s games, and more)! I hope to see you there!
Precinct2Commissioner@Bexar org 210-335-2612
@CommishJRod
Paul Elizondo Tower 101 West Nueva Street Suite 1032 San Antonio, TX 78205
Growing for tomorrow. Here for you today.
Methodist Hospital | Metropolitan is expanding to improve access to care for Monte Vista and nearby neighborhoods.
The compassionate care you count on today continues, from emergency services to everyday healthcare needs, as we grow to serve you even better
Learn more:
sahealth.com/metropolitan
Upcoming Events
Seeking hosts for 2026! Please reach out to mail@montevista-sa.org if you are interested in hosting a neighborhood social event.
4th of July Parade & Picnic
July 4, 10:30am Lynwood/Howard Landa Library
Third Thursday Sept 17, 6:30-8:30pm TBA
Third Thursday Oct 15, 6:30-8:30pm TBA
5K & Holiday Market
Nov 14, 9am-2pm Landa Library
Board Meetings, every second Tuesday of the Month @ 6pm MVHA Office at Landa Library & over Zoom
Architectural Review Committee, every first Monday of the Month @ 6pm MVHA Office at Landa Library
Sign up for our Monte Vista Monday Newsletter! Email mail@montevista-sa.org or visit the home page of our website to sign up.
Spring Pet Spotlight: Brownie
By Toni Van Buren
Brownie turns 20 this month! I brought her home in 2012 after my vet called to say they had saved a female dog and her seven puppies from flood waters. I had recently lost a dog and my remaining dog was not doing well so the timing was perfect. She has been an only dog for a few years now though and enjoys it. She sleeps a lot but still polices the backyard ardently. Brownie is what we affectionally refer to as “San Antonio Brown dog” - a true mix of breeds! She’s not a fan of men but loves our pest control guy who spoils her with treats. I’ve been lucky to have such a loyal companion like her all these years!
We want to feature your pet in the next issue of Vistas! Submit photo & paragraph to mail@montevista-sa.org.
We hope to see you at the Annual MVHA 5K Fun Run/Walk and Holiday Market on November 14th! Registration will open on August 15th. Interested vendors please reach out to mail@ montevistasa.org to participate in the holiday market.
Easter Egg-stravaganza: Annual Egg Hunt
Thank you to our event sponsor - Dr. Tina Boylston with the Southwest Children’s Center! And H-E-B for the refreshments. Thanks to volunteers Sally, Ed, EJ & Ellie Marvin, Becky & Charlie Kirbo, Lyndsay & Nick Goodwin, Lydia & Darren McAfee, William Boylston, Meri Rabke and Trudy Kinnison.
Photos by David Smith.
2026 Membership Form
is valid for 365 days from date of payment. Questions? Call 210-737-8212 or Email mail@montevista-sa.org
