San Antonio Magazine September/October 2023

101 Fun Things to Do This Fall

From cheering on the Spurs’ No. 1 to exploring underground caves and pumpkin patch fun, there are dozens of ways to soak in the season.

Maker

A flight attendant’s personal quest for health led to the wellness brand and tea line Relyt.

City News

The St. Mary’s Strip is finally returning to normalcy. Will that be enough to reignite the corridor?

Person of Interest

Emily Smith, general manager of the Majestic and Empire Theatres, is looking to curate entertainment experiences as the industry continues to rebound from the pandemic.

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Culture

As it opens its second season, the San Antonio Philharmonic hopes to carve a permanent place in the city’s cultural landscape.

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Influencer

Locals don’t have to travel to Round Top for antique and vintage gems thanks to Kelly Welker and her Bijou Betties in Southtown.

Libations

Treat yourself to a well-crafted cocktail and a slice of community at Chiflada’s.

Eat Here Now

The flavor combinations at Wurst Behavior are unexpected and brilliant.

Dish

Find an authentic East Coast–style Philly cheesecake with a San Antonio twist at Beacon Hill Deli & Market.

Spotlight

Have it all—from a haircut to an espresso or a martini—at Head Space.

Shopping

Look past the butcher counter during your next visit to Culebra Meat Market.

WORK OF ART

Contemporary at Blue Star

The nonprofit art gallery honors Cathy Cunningham-Little as part of its annual Red Dot sale.

Stepping Up With No Support

Grandparents raising their grandchildren are seeking help from a state system built to serve traditional foster families. State lawmakers say they want to provide more support, but local families are still waiting for tangible results.

River Walk Dining

Skip the tourist-centric chains in favor of these 10 restaurants that deliver a true taste of San Antonio, complete with topnotch service and a view.

On the Cover

Art director David G. Loyola created an illustration of the annual Día de los Muertos procession that takes place as part of Hemisfair’s Muertos Fest over a photograph of the park taken by Vann Holmes.

Growing up in Colorado, I loved the changing leaves and first snow that came with fall. The weather was usually cool but not frigid and there were still plenty of chances to get outdoors. There’s certainly not an annual first snow in San Antonio each fall, but since moving here 11 years ago, the city has given me countless new reasons to look forward to the season.

The triple digit temperatures of August have usually started to taper off, making it the ideal time to explore the city’s vast array of trails and parks or to take advantage of a free yoga class outside the Tobin Center. Festivals populate weekend calendars, whether Wurstfest, Día de los Muertos or the newly established Tasting Texas Wine + Food Festival. So, when we talked about creating a “101 Fun Things to Do” feature highlighting all that San Antonio has to offer, it was fall that seemed like the obvious time.

In this month’s cover feature (page 30), you’ll find just that—dozens of ways to take advantage of all the fun, adventure, culture and food that the city has to offer. From seasonal diversions, like visiting a pumpkin patch or admiring Day of the Dead altars, to San Antonio–centric activities, like cheering for the Spurs, volunteering at the Raul Jimenez Thanksgiving Dinner or playing 18 vintage holes at Cool Crest Miniature Golf, fall truly is the perfect time for soaking in the best of the Alamo City.

It is with sadness that I share this month’s issue will also be San Antonio Magazine’s last. I know I speak for each of the editors before me when I say that it has been our honor to tell the city’s stories since publishing our first issue 18 years ago.

I moved to San Antonio for a job with this magazine, and I’ve had the joy of falling in love with the city while covering it. I’ve done the expected write-ups on Fiesta parades and new restaurant openings, but I’ve also had the chance to discover lesser-known gems and to sit down with many of you and hear about the experiences that have shaped you and, in turn, this town.

To our readers and to everyone who has shared their story with us or supported us in any way, thank you. Being a part of your San Antonio story has been an immense honor.

HGTV Meets SA

Kim Wolfe chats about the second season of Why the Heck Did I Buy this House?, her sneaker obsession and how you might be able to snag items during her next warehouse sale. sanantoniomag.com/hgtvkim-wolfe

Jazzed

Jazz’SAlive is back but in a new location this year as it opens Civic Park at Hemisfair, Sept. 29 and 30. Hear from Kirk Whalum about what to expect from his show at sanantoniomag.com/

Reading Recs

Looking for a new book to dive into? Nowhere Bookshop owner and author Jenny Lawson shares some of her picks for what to add to your reading list. sanantoniomag.com/ category/culture/books

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2023

VOL. 18 NO. 6

EDITORIAL

Editor in Chief Kathleen Petty

Contributing Writers

Ashley Allen, Bonny Osterhage, Jacey Blue Renner, Paulina Rodriguez, Emily Schmalstieg, Katherine Stinson, Edmund Tijerina, Claire Winesett

Copy Editor Patsy Pelton

ART

Art Director

David G. Loyola

Contributing Photographers

Jason Barnes, Kat Carey, JoMando Cruz, Klare Perez, Erika Ramirez, Michael Rodriguez, Emily Schmalstieg, Chris Stokes

Art Intern Vann Holmes

ADVERTISING

Sales Director Molly Lochridge

Account Director

Dana Horner

Account Executive

Annemarie Gist

Sales Operations Manager

Kiely Whelan

DIGITAL

Digital Managers

Rosie Ninesling, Abigail Stewart

OPEN SKY MEDIA

CEO Todd P. Paul

Editorial Director Rebecca Fontenot Cord

Sales Director Molly Lochridge

CIRCULATION

Audience Development Director Kerri Nolan

Circulation Manager Julie Becker

EVENTS

Events Director Lauren Sposetta

ACCOUNTING

Accounting Manager Sabina Jukovic

CONTACT US 210-268-1100 sanantoniomag.com

Advertising Inquiries advertising@sanantoniomag.com

Story Ideas, Letters to the Editor editor@sanantoniomag.com

Subscriptions, Renewals and Address Changes

Open Sky Media, Inc. 512 W. MLK Jr. Blvd., PMB 374 Austin, TX 78701-1231

512-387-6234 subscriptions@sanantoniomag.com sanantoniomag.com/subscribe

IN THE LOOP

Growing Well

Tyler Beakley’s personal health journey led to the wellness brand Relyt

RELYT FOUNDER TYLER BEAKLEY ASSUMED IT was some type of spam when she saw a Four Seasons Beverly Hills email pop up in her inbox. A few days later though, a representative from the prestigious hotel’s spa sent a message through her wellness brand’s website, too. Beakley read that note all the way through (and then read it again) and found that they’d tried Relyt tea while at Loma de Vida at La Cantera Resort & Spa in San Antonio and wanted to know how they could get it added to their own spa menu in Beverly Hills. “It didn’t seem real,” says Beakley, a Kerrville native and one-time Long Beach resident who landed in San Antonio during the pandemic. “Of all the tea in the world—I’m very confident in my product, but we are a very small business. It’s just me and my wife.” Still, Beakley knew she would do whatever was needed to make it happen, so she quickly replied and now has three teas at the hotel—including her first blend called Nourishment that is meant to help with gut health. A former flight attendant, Beakley says she turned to herbalism after years of undiagnosed health issues and found relief in teas, tinctures, oils and more. She studied under and completed a two-year apprenticeship with an herbalist in California before moving to Texas when the pandemic halted travel and her regular work at an airline. “Herbalism was definitely a means to an end,” she says. “It was never supposed to be a passionturned-hobby-turned-business... It’s nice to give people a sense of empowerment. They’re choosing this for themselves and feel like they’re doing something good for themselves.”

Too Little, Too Late?

As construction on the St. Mary’s Strip finally wraps up, business owners and city leaders hope revival is possible

The once buzzing cultural hub that is the St. Mary’s Strip is looking less crowded these days.

Years of ongoing construction wreaked havoc on the street’s once bustling restaurants, pulsating nightclubs and lively bars. And while the work is finally nearing its end (construction was slated to finish just as this issue was scheduled to hit newsstands), its impact will be long felt.

“Everybody that operates businesses on The Strip has seen their revenues drop since construction began two years ago,” says Chad Carey, owner of Little Death wine bar and music venue Paper Tiger.

Aaron Peña, owner of the now-closed Squeezebox, says they lost upwards of $300,000 in revenue, which was ultimately too much to sustain. He closed the bar at the end of July after seven years in business.

“It was devastating in terms of the financial loss for the business,” he says.

The city’s $15.7 million project brought bike lanes, more lighting and wider sidewalks to The Strip—all things meant to help ease access to amenities along the road. Delays piled up as work continued, however,

and business owners complained the city wasn’t communicative or supportive of them.

Those issues may be part of why Sukh Kaur defeated incumbent Mario Bravo to win the District 1 City Council seat during the June runoff. Kaur agrees the project “took entirely too long” and says there was not enough coordination between utility workers, contractors and the city.

Kaur says she’s confident The Strip can thrive again and adds that lessons were learned from this project.

“Moving forward, we want to be over-communicating to residents and holding contractors and city staff accountable,” she says, adding that her office has hired two leaders—one with a background in engineering and one with a background in construction—who have significant experience with community, public works and council.

While the last two years have been difficult, Carey and others are committed to sticking it out. The Strip is a place where musicians and artists feel supported, which is something San Antonio needs, they say. “We’ve built a cultural infrastructure that’s really important,” Carey says

All for the Audience

As the general manager of the Majestic and Empire Theatres and The Espee, Emily Smith wants to curate memorable experiences for San Antonio

mily Smith has been working in performance venues for over two decades, but it’s possible there has never been a more exciting time to do what she does. As general manager of the Ambassador Theatre Group’s Majestic and Empire Theatres, Smith has been one of the driving forces behind San Antonio’s performing arts scene as it returns to full capacity after its COVID-era shutdowns. Along with the historic theaters downtown, the Ambassador Theatre Group last year acquired The Espee. The massive outdoor venue formerly known as Sunset Station adds a different type of venue to the group’s portfolio and Smith’s ability to craft new audience experiences in San Antonio.

How did you get into the theater industry?

I actually started my career with the Majestic and Empire. I studied at the University of the Incarnate Word, and upon graduating, I responded to an ad for a marketing assistant with the theatres. Broadway in San Antonio was presented here at the theatres and we had several different theatrical series in the Empire. Really, that’s when I knew I wanted to be in a creative and collaborative environment. I was studying communications, and when I got to the Majestic and Empire and learned the ins and outs of how to promote a show and all the pieces that go on behind the scenes, I was hooked.

Obviously, the performing arts scene changed quite a bit with the pandemic. How do you feel about the state of performing arts in San Antonio now, and what do you think is still needed?

Well, speaking from our experience, coming out of COVID we have seen that the community was ready to come back. Our performances are well attended, audiences are excited to be able to come back to Broadway and live concerts, and we were doing everything we could to make sure those experiences were safe. So, there has been

Resume:

Emily Smith started with the Majestic and Empire Theatres in 1999. She worked for the SBC (now Frost Bank) Center, at venues in Austin and at the SA Children’s Museum before returning to the Majestic and Emipre Theatres in 2011.

Coming Next:

An Evening with John Cusack, Sept. 13 at the Majestic Theatre; Switchfoot, Sept. 23 at The Espee; Eric Gales, Oct. 1 at the Empire Theatre; Six the Musical, Oct. 10-22 at the Majestic Theatre

a lot of enthusiasm, excitement and support around coming back, and it continues to move in that direction. As far as our programming is concerned, it just continues to increase. The pandemic also opened up conversations about different ways to present live entertainment. Certainly, we were thinking about this before COVID, but we continue to think about it. As we know, entertainment dollars are precious. You want the most from your night out. At the theaters, we’re thinking about not just how we can offer the artists and theatrical performances we know the community may want to see—which we’re working on bringing to the theaters—but also what else they want when they’re coming to the theater. How can we offer those opportunities, so that audiences can curate their own experience when they come to the Majestic or the Empire Theatre? We’ve introduced some premium upgrade experiences, some lounge experiences, and the Majestic and Empire now have in-seat hospitality opportunities. There’s even a coffee bar in the Majestic Theater now. So, it’s all about listening to customer feedback and thinking about how we can offer some different opportunities.

Last spring, the Ambassador Theatre Group also opened a new venue, The Espee. What is your vision for the venue, and what do you think it brings to the live music scene in San Antonio?

It’s exciting for San Antonio because it’s an outdoor boutique amphitheater. The capacity is 3,175, and it’s in our city center on the East Side. It is the perfect complement to the historic Majestic and Empire Theatres, which are seated venues. Within our group, now having an open floor, outdoor venue that is general admission, it just opens up the opportunity for more types of live entertainment to come to San Antonio. I’m so excited about that. Sunset Station is also a historic site—the amphitheater is on the site of the first rail station in San Antonio, built in 1902. Espee is a nickname for Southern Pacific (SP). It’s a charming space and has an amazing view of our city skyline. So, we’re excited about bringing more live music to The Espee and then also continuing with the additional events in this special space.

What are you most excited for in the coming months?

The most rewarding part of this role is t o experience the audience’s experience. With the live entertainment that’s coming to any one of the venues, there’s so much that goes on behind the scenes. Our teams work so hard to make it happen flawlessly. The show is always the icing on the cake and seeing our patrons and fans and guests come into the venue and experience the environment that we’ve had the opportunity to create for them, honestly, that is the most exciting thing for me. I’m looking forward to many more productions throughout the three venues this year and experiencing that with audiences. For as long as I’ve been doing this—now for over 20 years—I still get goosebumps and my eyes tear up when I have those experiences in the theater because it’s just so moving to see the communities coming together and enjoying our spaces. And all three of these venues are historic landmarks. They’re unique to San Antonio, and we’re so lucky that we get to be here and be stewards of the venues, but these are San Antonio’s gems. Having the opportunity to experience the community experiencing them and coming together is wonderful.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

“For as long as I’ve been doing this—now for over 20 years—I still get goosebumps and my eyes tear up when I have those experiences in the theater because it’s just so moving to see the communities coming together and enjoying our spaces.”

A Stronger Chord

sit on to perform. That feat was made possible largely thanks to a donation from David Wood and Colette Holt, new San Antonians who wanted to see symphonic music continue.

Brian Petkovich, a bassoonist and board president of the San Antonio Philharmonic, says they’ve been grateful for the longtime symphony fans who’ve supported them as well as newcomers, like Wood and Holt.

“I’m encouraged that we’re just scratching the surface of what the interest is in our community,” says Petkovich, adding that season ticket subscriptions are up 30 percent. “There are people who haven’t bought tickets before who are buying a whole season, which I find amazing.”

Before Randy and Pauline Glickman agreed to move to San Antonio in the 1980s, the couple wanted to know whether the city had a symphony orchestra.

“For us, basically an indication of a high-quality city with a good lifestyle is the availability of the performing arts,” says Randy Glickman, Ph.D., a retired researcher and UT Health San Antonio professor. “Knowing that San Antonio had a symphony and a lively music scene was a factor in considering this a good place to live.”

The Glickmans became San Antonio Symphony subscription holders when they arrived back in 1981 and supported them until their demise in 2022. Pauline, a musician herself, knows many of the symphony musicians from her days performing with a chamber group and the couple was ready and waiting to support the San Antonio Philharmonic when it announced its inaugural season in the summer of 2022. After all, Randy says, the seventh largest city in the country needs an orchestra, and perhaps a new organization with grassroots support could be the remedy to years of financial distress, contract disputes and what Randy describes as less-than-aggressive fundraising efforts by the symphony’s boards.

They’re not alone in their enthusiasm for the SA Philharmonic, which launches its second season Sept. 22 and 23. Certainly, the Glickmans and other donors say, it’s still early, but in its first year, the philharmonic managed to stage a full season at First Baptist Church while negotiating a performance-by-performance-based contract with musicians—the bulk of whom are former symphony members—and perform more free concerts for youth than ever before.

The group also purchased important assets from the bankruptcy judge managing the former symphony case, including the $1 million-plus music library, a collection of instruments and even practical things like the chairs musicians

To continue growing will require a staff, more fundraising and marketing. Many people don’t realize the SA Philharmonic exists or that it’s essentially the next chapter of the symphony, says Roberto Treviño, a former city councilman and the newly hired Philharmonic executive director. “The San Antonio Philharmonic is the San Antonio Symphony and it’s carrying on this 84-plus year history,” he says, adding that it ended its first season in the black after years of deficits by the former symphony. “That is something I’m proud to be a part of.”

To stay in San Antonio and make the philharmonic work, many of the musicians continue to also play gigs in other cities as well as teach in San Antonio and play for local weddings, funerals and other engagements. Petkovich says that’s nothing new for the former symphony musicians and that their involvement as educators is part of why so many wanted to stay in San Antonio. It’s also why staging free Young People’s Concerts is so important to them. The group performed 36 at school campuses around the city last season and plan to increase that number this season.

“It’s become my home over the past 27 years,” Petkovich says of San Antonio, a sentiment he says many of the musicians share. “I feel passionate about what the city can be—passionate about how the philharmonic can play a part in the fabric of the arts in San Antonio.”

Treviño says he understands questions from locals about what makes this organization different from the beleaguered symphony. Time may be the best indicator, but Trevino says he has noticed a new willpower to succeed.

The Glickmans say they, too, see a shift in attitude and a more concerted effort to reach out to the community and its youth. They, like Jeri Oishi, another longtime symphony attendee and SA Philharmonic supporter, already have the full second season booked on their calendars.

“I hope people see the need (to support),” Oishi says. “We lost our symphony once and we can’t afford to lose our philharmonic.”

“It’s become my home over the past 27 years. I feel passionate about what the city can be— passionate about how the philharmonic can play a part in the fabric of the arts in San Antonio.”

Open Thursday through Sunday

Shop and sip from 6-9 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays

Made to Last

Kelly Welker has created an emporium of vintage, antique and eclectic wares

Bijou Betties, which aptly translates to “jeweled women,” is a glittering jewel box in Southtown, where you never know what you might find. From an almost $8,000 pre-1850s fruitwood French armoire to locally made $2 calcite worry stones, there’s something for every taste and budget in this world of timeless treasures curated by owner Kelly Welker.

Welker, who also works full-time as the owner of Renaissance Wealth Management Group, has been passionate about collecting antiques since she and her husband were students at the University of Texas at Austin. “We used to go to estate sales and Round Top for fun,” she says. “We started accumulating so much stuff that we needed a place to put it.”

After a brief stint at the Antique Mall on Blanco Road, Welker opened Bijou Betties in September 2020 on South Alamo Street. Inspired by Philadelphia’s South Street, where unique antique shops are

tucked in between bars and restaurants and stay open until midnight, Welker wanted to create something that blended into and enhanced the neighborhood that is known for its fun and funky vibe. To Welker’s experienced eye, the Southtown spot was located in what she calls an “antique area with no antique stores,” making it the ideal place to hang her shingle.

“I love this area for the historical value of it,” she says, adding that they’re now surrounded by restaurants like Up Scale and Little Em’s Oyster Bar.

To stock her space, Welker scours auctions worldwide, looking for furniture, china, crystal, art, clothing, rugs and authenticated designer bags. And while she may carry some vintage finds, Welker quickly points out that she is not a “vintage” or “thrift” shop.

“The thing about antiques that fascinates me is how well made they are,” Welker says. “Most antiques were made by hand and built to stand the test of time. The newer stuff just doesn’t last.”

EAT + DRINK

A West Side Gem

Spoil yourself at Chiflada’s Cocktail Bar

NATASHA RIFFLE WANTS REGULARS TO FEEL at home when ordering a drink at Chiflada’s. The West Side bar that she opened earlier this year alongside her mother, Veronica Riffle, and El Buho co-owner Melanie Martinez, takes its San Antonio–centric cocktail menu seriously. But Riffle says along with well-made drinks, they want to be known most as a space for community.

“It’s a place where you can still have a good time but also feel a sense of community and give something back to the community,” she says.

Its homey vibe starts with feminine touches throughout, including marigolds over the patio and a purple-hued light that shines on the bar’s name outside come evening. Inside, visitors find papel picado,

feminine Mexican tile around the bar, and free tampons and pads in the women’s bathroom—a small gesture that Riffle says continues to impress female newcomers.

With nearly a decade of experience bartending at places on the St. Mary’s Strip, Riffle says she had plenty of time to think about what she’d include when she opened her own place. She decided to go for it after experiencing an overwhelming sense that it was finally “her turn,” and says support came both from her business partners and the community.

On the menu, guests will find a rare melon-flavored paloma, a mezcal-based Smoke on the Water, Mexican martinis, the Pepino (a blend of tequila, pepino agua fresca, lime and simple syrup) and nonalcoholic options, like the Michi-nada.

Chiflada’s also prides itself on hosting frequent pop-up events and chef spotlights so regulars can spoil themselves a little.

Chiflada’s, after all, is slang for spoiled— and everyone deserves that once in a while.

Inspired Pairings

Chips and queso? That’s just about everywhere in Texas. But kimchi queso—now you’re talking. At Wurst Behavior, the liquid gold tops a pile of corn chips with accents of pickled red onions, sausage crumbles and a housemade XO sauce. It’s a spicy, crunchy and delightful flavor that hints at San Antonio’s future.

The latest project from the James Beard–nominated guys who created Pinch Boil House and Curry Boys, Wurst Behavior offers a relaxed and stylish place to chill plus sophisticated flavor combinations.

Although combining a beer garden and German sausages with Asian touches seems counterintuitive, from this team, it’s a natural pairing. Even the bratwurst is topped with a papaya slaw.

The workings for this outpost began more than a dozen years ago, when Sean Wen and Andrew Ho met while studying at the University of Texas at Austin. Wen, a native of Houston, got his degree in psychology and took a job at Goldman Sachs, but after three years he realized the industry wasn’t for him. “I wanted to be part of something different,” he says.

He applied and was accepted into the entrepreneurship program Venture for America and moved to Baltimore to work with a startup.

Meanwhile, he and Ho—who had since moved abroad to teach English in Southeast Asia—kept in touch. Ho was known for throwing great crawfish boils, and the two often talked about doing some kind of business together. Inspired by those crawfish boils, they decided to go for it in 2016, and Wen transferred to San Antonio to finish his Venture for America program.

Wen and Ho hosted crawfish pop-ups around town for nearly two years before opening Pinch Boil House in 2017 downtown. Support grew quickly and the pair now operate the concept in Alamo Heights.

ORDER THIS

Wurst nachos

Kimchi queso dog

Triple sausage sampler

The restaurant was just the start of their culinary portfolio. When pandemic shutdowns hit in 2020, Wen and Ho teamed up with South BBQ & Kitchen owner Andrew Samia to create Curry Boys. They didn’t expect the reaction.

“Curry Boys was a hit from day one, which blows my mind,” Wen says. “It’s a testimony to this city.”

The three owners were named James Beard Award semifinalists earlier this year. That added to their visibility just as Wen and Ho were getting ready to debut Wurst Behavior in the spring. The project also includes co-owner Joe Saenz, who’s behind the weekend brunch menu featuring his Swine House breakfast sandwiches. The three wanted a beer garden where people could relax and enjoy great food.

“Why don’t we create a space where we would want to hang out?” Wen says. Indeed, with design from Lake | Flato Architects, a creative menu, a solid beer list, reasonable prices and an excellent vibe, why wouldn’t you want to hang out there?

Flavors Collide

IN MANY WAYS, MATT MCLAUGHLIN AND MARAY McChesney have their affinity for a good gin and tonic to thank for the creation of Beacon Hill Deli & Market.

The couple who’ve lived in Beacon Hill since 2005 found that commercial tonic waters made with high fructose corn syrup usually left McChesney with a headache. McLaughlin solved the problem by crafting his own syrups using elements from their garden, like lavender and lemon verbena. When he was furloughed in 2020 due to COVID-19, his hobby slowly turned into a burgeoning business: Bexar Tonics.

He’d been producing the flavored tonics for bars and commercial clients, like Hotel Emma, from a local raspa shop where he leased space, but in 2022 started looking for his own kitchen. The owner of SoHill Café suggested a soon-tobe-vacant restaurant next door. McChesney and McLaughlin loved the space, but knew they’d need more income than Bexar Tonics produced to pay the rent on it. So they decided to add another dream to the property.

“Opening a deli is something we’d been talking about pretty much since we moved

here,” McLaughlin says. “We just didn’t know how to do it.”

The couple who met while working in the food industry in Boston had even operated an occasional pop-up, Dangw!ch, at a local brewery.

Earlier this year after some renovations and recipe development, they opened Beacon Hill Deli & Market, and they’ve already had to expand their hours to meet customer demand.

The classic Philly cheesesteak is the bestseller. McLaughlin, a Philadelphia native, makes it the way he grew up eating them: with chopped steak, grilled onions and American cheese. As a nod to the Cheez Whiz topping made popular by the Food Network, guests can also order the sandwich with Rico’s cheese sauce on top. “It’s kind of a mix of the two of us—San Antonio and East Coast,” McLaughlin says, with a laugh. McChesney keeps the deli case stocked with inventive garden salads and fresh pasta salads and the two have also curated a small market with imports plus their Bexar Tonics, which they make in the deli kitchen during the week.

“It’s a mishmash of all of our passions in one tiny space,” McChesney says.

+ 3 OTHER CHEESESTEAKS TO TRY

Gino’s Deli

Located in the Stop ‘n Buy on Huebner Road, Gino’s has been churning out classic cheesesteaks, burgers and other sandwiches for nearly two decades to locals in the know. With press in recent years from local outlets plus BuzzFeed, Texas Monthly and Yelp, it’s no longer SA’s best kept secret. The sandwiches are as good as they’ve ever been. 13210 Huebner Road, myginosdeli.com

Malik’s Philly’s Phamous Cheesesteaks

Locals can order an original Philly with white American cheese, a bacon ranch version or “the Malik,” which comes with the classic onions and cheese plus extra steak or chicken, peppers, mushrooms and mayo. Add a cup of Phresh Cut Phries to get the full experience. 2301 San Pedro Ave., 11911 Crosswinds Way, 1850 W. Loop 1604 S., maliksphillys phamous.com

Youz Guyz Cheesesteaks

Everything is authentic Philadelphia Italian here. The cheesesteaks can be ordered with chicken or beef and are served with raw or cooked onions plus your choice of provolone, American or Cheez Whiz. Get creative with your second visit and try a pizza steak. 316 Pat Booker Road, Universal City, youzguyzcheesesteaks.com

HEADSPACE

109 Playmoor St. headspacesatx.com

Open Tues-Sun

Have it All at Head Space

The owners of this bar, coffee shop and salon are curating community

If the idea of a coffee shop that’s also a bar, hair salon, art gallery and pop-up venue seems unfocused, Anya Krotova and Mike Torres want you to reconsider.

The friends who opened Head Space in a blue house in Southtown earlier this year say they wanted to create a place that is hyperlocal and focused on community—a spot where people can “get their head right,” whether through a fresh haircut and an espresso or a craft cocktail and a conversation.

“It’s hard seeing all of these new corporate businesses opening up,” Krotova says. “There’s no substance to them, you know?”

She and Torres were talking about just that as well as their mutual desire for community when the idea for Head Space was born. Krotova says she missed the welcoming feeling of her New York City bodega after leaving the East Coast for Texas while Torres wanted to craft a concept that showcased

the warmth that he believes his hometown of San Antonio embodies.

Their hybrid spot does that while also being a place where clients can have it all. After all, why should you have to make a pre-salon stop to get your coffee or cocktail fix?

A hairstylist who spent years working in NYC, Krotova serves salon clients while Torres, who worked at a coffee shop in Austin and in his own restaurant in Lockhart, mans the coffee and cocktail bar.

The pair says they’ve been blown away by the welcome they’ve received from other coffee shops and Southtown neighbors. “There was no sense of competition,” says Torres.

And, he adds, it’s all the more reason to continue using their own venue as a place for community, whether through weekly chef dinners by Saha or temporary artist exhibits, all hosted at no charge to the featured guests.

Beyond the Meat Counter

A stop at the butcher should be just the start of your next Culebra Meat Market trip

THE ORIGINAL CULEBRA ROAD LOCATION OPENED 40 YEARS AGO, BUT THE family-owned grocery market now has more than 15 stores with fully stocked meat counters (think cut up menudo, pork feet, beef tongue and standard ground beef or chicken) plus full-service panaderias that churn out fresh tortillas and pan dulce. Several locations also have taco counters so you can enjoy breakfast or lunch without having to assemble the ingredients into a meal yourself.

1 / Sliced nopalitos

Let someone else do the work and purchase sliced cactus that’s ready to brine, sauté or even add to your next smoothie. $3.29 per pound, price can vary

2 / Green Hot Sauce

Made in-house, the green and other salsas will make your own breakfast tacos taste almost as good as the ones from the instore counter. $3.49 for 8 ounces

3 / Bolner’s Fiesta Brand Menudo Spice Mix

Get the flavor of simmering soup without the hours of cooking thanks to this blend of onion, garlic, chili pepper and other spices. It’s made by San Antonio–based Bolner’s. $2.89 for 2.5 ounces

4 / Pan Dulce

Offerings vary depending on location but at several stores, guests can select from a full wall of fresh pastries, whether traditional conchas and chocolate-dipped calvos or doughnuts, orejas and buñuelos. $1.49 each

5

/ El Super Leon Mango candy

Whether tamarindo, chili gummies or these chili lemon mango treats, a bag of sweets is the perfect reward for sticking to your list until you reach the checkout line. $1.69 per bag

6 / Strawberry Kuii

Made by a North Texas company, Kuii drinks are a mix of coconut milk and coconut water plus coconut jelly cubes that add to the flavoring. It’s like a dessert, but it’s meant to hydrate and it’s only 150 calories. $2

7 / Barbacoa

Sold by the pound on Saturdays and Sundays, barbacoa specials come with homemade menudo, beans, lengua, and, if you desire, Big Red. There on a weekday? Snag pork or bean and cheese tamales. $19 per pound, price can vary

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE + FITNESS 2

1. ExplorE ImagInary Worlds at thE san antonIo BotanIcal gardEn

If the summer heat scared you away from the garden’s 38 acres, now is your time. The pumpkins that will fill the entrance and Family Adventure Garden this fall are reason enough to go, but through October, guests can also search for eight whimsical, oversized sculptures by Mosaïcultures Internationales de Montréal. The steel pieces are each covered in soil-and-sphagnum moss, including a 20-foot dragon in the Lucile Halsell Conservatory. Before landing in San Antonio earlier this year, the sculptures had only ever been on display in Atlanta. Can’t make it this fall? Reserve tickets for Lightscape, the holiday light experience that’s open Nov. 17 through Jan. 1. A few Imaginary Worlds statues will remain on-site until early next year. sabot.org/imaginaryworlds

takE thE nEW hIddEn WondErs tour at natural BrIdgE cavErns

New this year, the tour allows visitors to explore previously unseen underground chambers filled with illuminated rock formations. Knowledgeable guides lead guests 160 feet underground where they’ll enjoy a sound and light show meant to tell the story of the geology surrounding them. Tours last 70 to 75 minutes. naturalbridgecaverns.com/hiddenwonderstour

3. vIsIt thE sItE of thE futurE arBorEtum (and consIdEr supportIng thE causE)

The vision for Arboretum San Antonio began about 10 years ago when former Mayor Henry Cisneros had the idea to create a worldclass arboretum, a specialized botanical garden that features regional trees. When finished, it will be a new community space on the city’s Southeast Side where San Antonians can find respite from the fastpaced day-to-day grind while being surrounded in nature. Support the arboretum’s progress by donating on their website and visit the site—a former golf course on Southeast Military Drive—to catch the vision. arboretumsa.org

4. tandEm skydIvE

Thrill seekers and adrenaline junkies can head to Texas Skydiving to strap in with a USPA-certified instructor and jump out of a plane at 10,500 feet, free falling at 120 mph before taking a 5- to 7-minute descent over the Texas countryside. texasskydiving.com

Soak at caMP Hot wellS

It’s tough to beat sunset in the garden at this haven in South San Antonio. Gain access to the oasis of the property by booking a private hot sulfur water soak in a cedar tub, and don’t forget to grab a drink from the rotating beer and wine offerings at the bar. camphotwells.com

6. Perfect Your Swing at HYatt Hill countrY reSort & SPa’S Driving range

Enjoy some downtime while putting, chipping and practicing your drives at the Hyatt’s gorgeous 200-acre golf club. The best part? You don’t have to be a resort guest. Driving range hours are sunrise to sunset. hyatthillcountrygolf.com

GET FIT FOR FREE

10.

Zumba at the Tobin Center (Sept. 23, Oct. 28, Nov. 25 or Dec. 23). tobincenter.org

7-9 finD Your favorite trail

7. Take advantage of the cool(er) weather and bike or hike to San Antonio’s Mission San José or San Juan along the Mission Reach (keep in mind this is an out-and-back route and there are about 2.5 miles between each site). sanantonioriver authority.org

8. Start by cycling the 8 miles of trails at Phil Hardberger Park, where you can also hop on the Blanco trails that connect to the Salado Creek Greenway and its 40-plus miles of additional options. philhardberger park.org

9. With many shaded and paved trails, O.P. Schnabel Park off Bandera Road is an easy option for low-key mornings spent deer watching and hiking with the whole family. sanantonio.gov/ parksandrec

11.

Join Mobile Om for yoga at Confluence Park (every Sunday at 10 a.m.), San Pedro Creek Culture Park (Mondays at 6 p.m.) or Legacy Park (Tuesdays at 6 p.m.). mobileomtx.com

12.

Work every muscle during the city’s Fitness in the Park circuit training classes (Saturdays at 10 a.m. at McAllister Park, Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. at Conner Park or Wednesdays at 6 p.m. at Highland Park). fitcitysa. com/move-more/fitness-inthe-park/

13.

Jog with Brooks City Running Club (meet at 6:30 p.m. Mondays at The Friendly Spot or at 6:30 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays at the Greenline). instagram.com/ brookscityrunning

14. Go on a Hot Girl Walk

Join @hotgirlwalksa twice a month to connect with other women in the community during hour-long walks through various parks around town. Stay to chat over coffee afterward, and feel free to bring your kids or furry friends along. Follow them on Instagram for updates on location and time. instagram.com/hotgirlwalksa

15. SUP on tHe river

Book a rental with Mission Adventure Tours and get a fresh view of the San Antonio River during a standup paddle boarding session on the Museum Reach. Looking for something a little less urban?

Consider Boerne City Lake Park where Hill Country Paddle Sports can outfit you with gear to hit the water for up to four hours. mat-tx.com, hillcountrypaddlesports.com

16-18 RUN A RACE

16.

Dress in costume for Culinaria’s HalloWine

5K Run and reward your effort on the pavement with sips and bites at the finish line, Oct. 28, at The Shops at La Cantera. culinariasa.org/hallowine-run

17.

Support the San Antonio Food Bank during the Turkey Trot, Nov. 23, starting at the Commander’s House at H-E-B’s campus. safoodbank.org

18.

See the city during the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon & 1/2 Marathon, Dec. 2-3, beginning downtown on S. Flores Street. Need to train? Join the San Antonio Roadrunners’ program, which can include a flexible schedule written by one of their coaches or weekly group runs that increase in length throughout the fall. runsignup.com/ race/tx/sanantonio/sarr falltraining

19. Plan a CamPing TriP

Just 45 minutes north of San Antonio, Guadalupe River State Park is a perfect location for an overnight getaway. Spend the day swimming in the river or hiking some of the 13 miles of trails, and then tuck in under the stars at one of the park’s 85 water and electric campsites or nine walk-in tent sites. If you tend toward glamping, reserve one of Tentrr’s fully equipped campsites that comes with a spacious canvas safari tent and comfortable bed, all still conveniently located inside the state park. tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/guadalupe-river, tentrr.com

20. Take a HorsebaCk ride in Hill CounTry sTaTe naTural area

Official guide partners Bandera Historical Rides and Outlaw Outfitters offer a fun selection of day and sunset specialty rides through parts of the 5,000-acre park and its prairies, canyons and tranquil creeks. banderahistoricalrides.com, outlawhorsebackrides.com

Eat + Dri nk

23. Buy ingredients

For your next salad at pristine produce

Drew Steans launched his hydroponic farm, Pristine Produce, last fall so he could grow lettuce, leafy greens, tomatoes and some rooted veggies in a climate-controlled environment. His vegetables already were available at Shavano Farmers Market and in dishes at restaurants like Clementine and Outlaw Kitchens. Starting this fall, he’ll also launch his own weekend farmers market where shoppers can buy Pristine Produce products plus local farm-fresh eggs, beef, chicken and other goods.

Why hydroponic farming?

Become a Foodie at the tasting texas Wine + Food Festival

Make plans to dedicate your whole weekend (Oct. 26-29) to culinary fun or simply reserve tickets for The Grand Tasting event at Maverick Plaza in La Villita (Oct. 28) to sample bites from some of the city’s best restaurants while also hearing from area chefs and bartenders about their techniques. Sunday (Oct. 29), brings a champagne brunch and an afternoon of burgers and bourbon at La Villita. culinariasa.org/tasting-texas

22. go to cooking Boot camp

Skip the physical rigors of military basic training in favor of a tastier immersion learning program at the Culinary Institute of America – San Antonio. From Oct. 24-27, guests can get schooled in the world of Mediterranean cooking while the session scheduled Oct. 30-Nov. 3 will include culinary basics that can be applied to any type of in-home cooking. ciafoodies.com/ boot-camps

“My family background is in farming and ranching, so I’m a fourth-generation farmer. I felt like in our market, the lettuce and leafy greens were not as fresh as they could be due to transportation and the logistics of getting them into our community. I felt there was an opportunity for us to provide that fresh year-round to our restaurants (and residents). Our produce gives them something fresher, cleaner and with a longer shelf life in addition to being local. Plus, it’s pesticide free and uses 95 percent less water (than traditional gardening).” instagram.com/ pristineproducesatx

24-27 Prost! to oktoberfest

24. More than 150 years since its founding as a German choir, Beethoven Mannerchor continues its work to preserve German heritage through song, language and, of course, food and drinks. Hear the Mannerchor while hoisting a stein during its annual Oktoberfest celebration, Oct. 6-7 and 13-14 at its garten headquarters in Southtown. southtownbeethoven.com

25. Several local breweries host (and brew) their own Oktoberfests, but you can’t go wrong with Künstler Brewing. The venture by Brent and Vera Deckard is known for its fusion of German and Texas tastes, and it’s all on display during their annual Oktoberfest, Sept. 16-17. This year, there’s also a ticketed Oktoberfest dinner Sept. 9 at the brewery. kuenstlerbrewing.com

26. Though not a true Oktoberfest, there are few better ways to celebrate German heritage than at Wurstfest in New Braunfels, Nov. 3-12 this year. Where else can you do the chicken dance whilst enjoying sausage-on-a-stick with your beer? The festival was founded in 1961 and has been a community favorite ever since. wurstfest.com

27. Brackenridge Park brings the atmosphere of a German biergarten to the River Walk with Parktoberfest on Sept. 24, in memory of Emma Koehler and her Pearl Brewery. Head to the Koehler Pavilion for live music and free beer tastings from local breweries. brackenridgepark.org

28. Take an InTernaTIonal Food Tour

There’s no shortage of tacos, burgers and pizza in San Antonio, but the Alamo City also is home to a diverse array of international cuisine. Consider a Caribbean lunch at The Jerk Shack or try Asian comfort food with steamed buns and a chilled noodle bowl from Ming’s Get a taste of Filipino family dinners at Sari-Sari or Sari-Sari Supper Club or Sichuanese cuisine at Dashi Sichuan Kitchen + Bar. End the day with a Mediterranean treat (baklava or cream tart, anyone?)

from Baklovah Bakery & Sweets

Or craft your own cuisine at home following a shopping trip to Ali Baba Market or Tim’s Oriental & Seafood Market.

29. SupporT The STrIp

Have a leisurely Saturday brunch at NOLA or Cullum’s Attaboy, a weekday lunch at Demo’s Greek Food or dinner at Singhs

Return on a Thursday or Friday night for live music at Paper Tiger or Lonesome Rose eatatnola. com, cullumsattaboy. com, toasttab.com/ singhs, demosgreekfood. com, papertigersatx.com, thelonesomerose.com

30. play JameS Beard nomInee BIngo

31. FInd your FavorITe mock TaIl

Want to have someone curate an international experience you?

Book a tour with former SAM writer Julia Celeste’s Food Chick Tours, and she’ll plan four hours of fun with stops at three restaurants plus some specialty grocery stores. foodchicktours. com

Get to know some of the city’s top chefs by dining with those who’ve been nominated for an Oscar of Food. For date night, make reservations at Clementine and let chef John Russ (a 2022 and 2023 nominee) curate your meal by selecting the “Feed Me” option. Grab coffee and macarons from Bakery Lorraine (baker Anne Ng received a nod for Outstanding Pastry Chef in 2023) and make it a happy hour at Weathered Souls Brewing (an Outstanding Bar nominee in 2023). For dinner, try Cured (where chef Steve McHugh is a six-time nominee) and return to Pearl another day to take a seat at Best Quality Daughter (chef Jennifer Hwa Dobbertin was nominated in the Emerging Chef category in 2023). Curry Boys BBQ calls for lunch while Burnt Bean Co. in nearby Seguin warrants a day trip (both restaurants’ chefs were nominees in 2023). Round out your bingo card with an almond tequila croissant from La Panadería (a 2022 nominee) and a multi-course dinner at Mixtli (another 2022 nominee). jamesbeard.org

Mocktails often look prettier than the real thing at HASH Vegan Eats, where we usually opt for the Lavender or Rosemary. The Hayden, which has a newish location at Alon, puts an N/A spin on some of its signature drinks—you can’t go wrong with the Everything But the Kitchen Sink. In Southtown, try Pharm Table’s N/A-Groni or Gold Rush, while the Bottling Dept. at Pearl’s Park Bar offers a perfectly balanced Miche-nada plus several other non-alcoholic options. hashveganeatery. com, thehaydensa.com, pharmtable.com, bottling department.com/park-bar

32. geT hoppy on a monday

When it’s been a real Monday, relax with “HOPpy” hour at Weathered Souls where IPAs are just $5 on Mondays. Service industry staff can also snag core beers for $5 all day. weatheredsouls.beer

33. learn The arT oF BrewIng

Whether you’re a budding homebrewer or a craft beer drinker who simply wants to learn more about how that IPA got to your glass, Second Pitch Beer Co.’s Beer for All Education Series delivers. Scheduled each Monday evening through at least the end of the year, the course includes a beer flight and brewery tour plus a deep dive led by certified cicerone Paige Martin on a specific topic (September’s class covers hops while December’s is on aged beer, for example). secondpitchbeer.com

Become your own Bartender at a cellar mixology class

Learn the magic behind a stellar cocktail during this 90-minute class led by a master mixologist and bartender at the downtown speakeasy. cellarmixology.com

35. at tend (and learn to make tamales at) tamalada

Sponsored by La Familia Cortez Restaurants, La Gran Tamalada Festival (set for Dec. 9-10) in Market Square honors the beloved tradition of making tamales with workshops and plenty of opportunities to try tamales on the spot or to take them home by the dozen. marketsquaresa.com

36. id the suspect at the dinner detective murder mystery dinner show

Located in the Sheraton Gunter Hotel (known as one of the most haunted hotels downtown), this Saturday murder mystery dinner brings the show out into the dining room, with guests and actors alike discovering clues as the night goes on. thedinnerdetective.com/san-antonio

37. toast your own s’mores

Gone are the days where camping is the only appropriate setting for s’mores. Visit Camp Outpost or Halcyon in Southtown to indulge in the nostalgic dessert activity from the comfort of your dinner table. eatatcamp. com, halcyoncoffeebar.com

38. get puro at the BarBacoa & Big red Festival

Scheduled Oct. 7 and 8 at the R&J Music Pavilion, this annual fest celebrates one of San Antonio’s most San Antonio food traditions: barbacoa and Big Red with a side of live music. barbacoabigredfestival.com

39. trade Bingo For singo

Fill your bingo card by identifying songs as they’re played during rounds of Singo at area breweries and restaurants. Challenge your musical know-how on Thursdays at Dog & Pony in Boerne, on Fridays at Second Pitch Beer Co. and as scheduled at El Luchador and Ranger Creek Brewing & Distilling. dogandponygrill.com, secondpitchbeer.com, instagram.com/ luchadorbarsa, drinkrangercreek.com

SPORtS

40. Add A WembAnyAmA Jersey (or T-shirT or hAT) To your CloseT

Visit the Spurs Fan Shop at the Spurs’ newly renamed arena, Frost Bank Center, in preparation for the start of the NBA season and snag a silver and black or city edition Fiesta jersey with Wemby’s No. 1 on it. If a jersey splurge isn’t in the cards, they also have T-shirts and even a foam finger celebrating his No. 1 pick in the draft. spursfanshop.com

41. shouT Go spurs Go!

The Spurs had roughly 4,000 new season ticket deposits between May and mid-summer, with 51 percent of those coming from millennials or Gen Z fans, according to Spurs Sports & Entertainment, and season-long suite reservations had already sold out. That means if you want single-game tickets or suite reservations, you best start making plans soon. spurs.com

42. hiT The CourT

If all the Wemby hype has you looking for a game of pick-up, consider joining a San Antonio Sports & Social Club basketball team. As much for fun as for competition, the league pits three-person teams against one another during 14-game seasons. Teams are co-ed and other sports are available if basketball isn’t your thing. sanantoniossc.com

43. Cheer For sAn AnTonio FC

Join the USL team for one of its final three home games of the season. They’ll celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month on Sept. 16 while facing the Tampa Bay Rowdies, it’s Kick Childhood Cancer Night on Sept. 23 when they play Orange County SC and locals can finish the season with Fan Appreciation Night, Oct. 14 vs. Indy Eleven. sanantoniofc.com

44. VolunTeer As A CoACh WiTh ymCA oF GreATer sAn AnTonio

Pass on your love of sports to the next generation by giving your time as a youth coach. Thanks to a partnership with Morgan’s Wonderland, the nonprofit also has opportunities to serve in an inclusive sports program that gives kids with disabilities the chance to play. ymcasatx.org/volunteer

45. AT Tend A hiGh sChool FooTbAll GAme

Friday Night Lights may be about a West Texas town, but there’s magic in a Friday night near the field in South Texas, too. If you’re unaffiliated, consider one of these games:

Sept. 15: Brandeis vs. LEE at Farris Stadium

Sept. 23: Johnson vs. Roosevelt at Heroes Stadium

Oct. 6: Harlan vs. Sotomayor at Farris Stadium

Oct. 7: Madison vs. Reagan at Comalander Stadium

Oct. 27: Smithson Valley vs. Hays at Ranger Stadium

46. don’T ForGeT The ChAmpionshipWinninG ClArk Women

Cheer on Clark’s girls basketball team, which won the program’s first-ever 6A state championship in 2023. They’ll begin the 2023-24 season in November. Check clarkathletics. org for dates and times.

Learn the Game of PickLebaLL

The nonprofit San Antonio Pickleball Association offers organized open play every day but Sunday on their home courts and free beginner sessions through the city’s Fitness in the Park offerings, Tuesday evenings and Wednesday mornings. sanantonio pickleball.org

48. YeLL birds UP! at a Utsa taiLGate

Going to a UTSA game following its two consecutive conference championships is a given, but be sure to head to the Alamodome early to tailgate with the UTSA Alumni Association. The group’s massive tailgates in the Hoefgen Parking Lot offer food, drinks, yard games, kids’ activities and the chance to take a selfie with Rowdy the Roadrunner. (Home games take place Sept. 9 vs. Texas State, Sept. 15 vs. Army, Oct. 14 vs. UAB, Oct. 28 vs. East Carolina, Nov. 11 vs. Rice and Nov. 17 vs. South Florida.) goutsa.com

ARTS + CULTURE

reserve tickets for a san antonio PhiLharmonic concert

The symphonic organization that grew out of the now-defunct San Antonio Symphony (read more about that on page 16), opens its second season Sept. 22-23 with violinist Chee-Yun and The Firebird by Stravinsky. Return Oct. 13-14 to hear acclaimed Norwegian trumpet player Tine Thing Helseth as she plays Arutiunian alongside the Philharmonic. saphil.org

50. bUY (or aPPreciate) a Piece of LocaL art at first fridaY

Visit the Blue Star Arts Complex for open studios, live music, local makers and plenty of chances to find a favorite piece. bluestarartscomplex.com

51. reserve a seat at tweLfth niGht

The Public Theater of San Antonio will debut the state premiere of this contemporary musical adaptation of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, Oct. 6-22. Another state premiere, A Xmas Cuento Remix, which bills itself as a modern adaptation of A Christmas Carol, complete with remixed Spanish and English songs, is on stage Dec. 1-17. New this fall, the Classic Theatre will perform its 202324 season in the Public Theater’s 60-seat Cellar Theater. thepublicsa. org, classictheatre.org

52. LiGht a Lantern at diwaLi san antonio

The 15th annual festival of lights returns to Hemisfair and La Villita Nov. 4. diwalisa.com

53. Get creative on a sPLatter date

Break up the dinner and a movie routine by booking a splatter paint date at the Northside craft boutique Pinspiration. The date package includes a reservation in the private splatter room so you can fling paint to your heart’s content while transforming one large or two small canvases. Couples will also receive chocolates and glasses of Champagne, and there’s an option to upgrade for glow-inthe-dark painting fun. You may never go back to movie night again. pinspiration.com

54. book toUr tickets

Jonas Brothers fever takes over Frost Bank Center Oct. 5 while the Dropkick Murphys visit Boeing Center at Tech Port Oct. 8.

Celebrate Día De los Muertos at one of these three events

Spiritlandia

Día de los Muertos celebrations take over La Villita Oct. 27-29. Starting Friday at 7 p.m., you can watch 25 intricately designed and brightly lit barges float down the river during the annual parade. Each night, La Villita will be filled with activities for the entire family from 6-10 p.m., including altar workshops, La Gloria margarita trucks, food, art vendors and a magnificent grand altar. dayofthedeadsa.com

Muertos Fest

Honor the rich traditions of Day of the Dead at Hemisfair Oct. 28-29 during the festival that boasts some of the city’s best art vendors plus four stages featuring bands, DJs and poets set up around Nueva Street, Plaza Mexico and the recently opened Civic Park. There will be a children’s area in Yanaguana Garden and many altars built around Hemisfair. End each day with a dance, drum and puppet procession. muertosfest.com

Día de los Muertos at Pearl

Wander the Pearl campus on your own time to admire altars displayed throughout the grounds during the first week of November, contribute to the community altar to honor your loved ones or join the festival on Nov. 2 from 5-9 p.m. for live music and cultural performances, Catrina-themed face painting and art displays, including one that features four life-size Catrinas by Regina Moya. atpearl.com

56. CatCh a free flíCk

Selena plays Oct. 6 at San Antonio Museum of Art while Mission Marquee Plaza hosts a variety of movies throughout the fall, including The Nightmare

Before Christmas, Oct. 7; Hocus Pocus, Oct. 19; and The Polar Express, Nov. 18. slabcinema.com

57. Meet Professíonal ballerínas at los Patíos

You don’t have to dress up for a night at the Tobin Center to see Ballet San Antonio perform thanks to its annual Ballet in the Park event. New this year, the outdoor performance will be at Los Patios on Sept. 23. Youth can also get moving during a pre-show class taught by the pros. balletsanantonio.org

58. anD then see theM at the theater

Ballet San Antonio kicks off its season at the Tobin Center with Beauty & The Beast, Oct. 13-15. The company performs Tchaikovsky’s classic The Nutcracker, Dec. 1-3 and 8-10 and closes the season with the premiere of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Feb. 23-25. balletsanantonio.org

59. CatCh a show at a sMaller venue

Whatever your mood or musical taste, there is an intimate live-music venue for you. On the St. Mary’s Strip, stop by the Lonesome Rose for some good ol’ honky-tonk vibes or go up the street to Paper Tiger for diverse sets with a little indie-punk electrifying energy. If you’re looking for a classier jazz, blues or salsa show, join Doc Watkins at Jazz, TX At Sam’s Burger Joint, you can take in the tunes with a side of burgers and brews. For a unique outdoor show, head to the South Side’s Echo Bridge Appreciation Society the lonesomerose.com, paper tigersatx.com, jazztx.com, samsburger joint.com, instagram.com/ echo bridgeappreciationsociety

60-63 take in art without visitinG a MuseuM at these new(ish) stops

60. A new pocket park open this year at West Magnolia and West Mistletoe avenues was designed by artists Kim Bishop and Luis Valderas. Along with original pieces by artists from the council district where the park sits, the space, known as Poet’s Pointe, also incorporates poetry by San Antonio poet laureates, including the current laureate, Octavio Quintanilla.

61. Artists Ashleigh Garza and Hailey Marmolejo collaborated with the community during open workdays to complete this largescale, 18-by-155-foot mural on Commerce Street at Historic Market Square. Called “The Spirit Within,” the piece is meant to be an homage to the history of women and their work at Market Square.

62. Leticia Huerta’s “Bloom” sculptures continue to grow, with oversized metal flowers now at Mud Creek at McAllister Park, the River Walk Public Art Garden, Brazos Pocket Park, Eisenhower Park, Mario Farias Park and Southside Lions Park. Soon, you’ll also be able to find them at Leon Creek at Tezel Road and at Blossom Park.

65. Go to Broadway without LeavinG town

63. Wemby mania wouldn’t be complete without a public art tribute. Visit Wembyinspired murals at Rudy’s Seafood (painted by Nik Soupe) and at Mark’s Outing (by Michael Sanchez).

...Thanks to Broadway in San Antonio at the Majestic Theatre. This season begins Oct. 10-22 with Six, a new original that brings the six wives of Henry VIII into the 21st century for a fun and lively pop remix. Or opt for a classic with Annie, Nov. 7-12, or Wicked, Dec. 20-Jan. 7. sanantonio. broadway.com

66. and Cap off the niGht with a CoCktaiL

Instead of sitting in a line to get out of the parking garage after your night at the theater, walk to Double Standard or The Esquire Tavern for a nightcap. Both have all of the classics you’d expect from a downtown bar, but don’t miss the El Diablo (a tequila drink with ginger beer and lime) at Double Standard or the Lei Me Down (made with Jamaican and Barbados rum plus palo cortado sherry, coconut, lime and nutmeg) at The Esquire. doublestandardsatx.com, esquiretavern-sa.com

67. Go nowhere for the afternoon

64. JaM at Jazz’saLive

The San Antonio Parks Foundation’s annual fest is celebrating 40 years with a move to Civic Park, which opens with Jazz’SAlive, Sept. 29-30. Reserve tickets to hear 12-time Grammy nominee Kirk Whalum, Japanese pianist Yuko Mabuchi and local jazz legends like Aaron Prado. saparks.org/ event/jazz-sa-live

Nowhere Bookshop, that is. Author Jenny Lawson has created a reader’s haven with staff recommendations scattered on the shelves throughout the store, a cafe with coffee and wine in the back and special events (think teacher happy hours, author signings and a “no pressure” book club) to connect with likeminded literary lovers. nowhere bookshop.com

Family FUN

69. Make tiMe for story tiMe

Joining Miss Anastasia at The Twig is a rite of passage for any San Antonio tot. The Twig updates its website with times regularly, but she’s typically there on Fridays. Most San Antonio Public Library branches also host regular story times. Consider baby story time at 1 p.m. Mondays at Landa Library, at 10:15 and 11:15 a.m. Wednesdays for songs and stories at Encino, or at 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays at the Central Library for Family Story Time. thetwig.com, mysapl.org

70. slide into tHe future at tHe doseuM

Through Oct. 15, kids can imagine what the future might bring while developing STEM skills during The DoSeum’s Dream Tomorrow Today exhibition. Whether through a futuristic grocery trip (non-melting ice cream, anyone?), an augmented reality city building challenge or by literally sliding into the room while covered with projected images, the exhibit is creative and challenging all at the same time. thedoseum.org

71. BrinG your own Banjo for BlueGrass jaMs

Boerne’s AgriCultural Museum & Arts Center invites guests to join them for a free bluegrass music session each second and fourth Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Play with the group, or just grab a seat and listen. theagricultural.org/ bluegrass-jams

72. Plan a BirtHday Party at kiddie Park

Take your child’s birthday party to America’s oldest children’s amusement park where they can enjoy old-fashioned rides, like the park’s original Ferris wheel and hand-carved carousel, during a two-hour event that comes with 12 party bands, designated picnic tables and the chance to add on pizzas or other kid-friendly fare. kiddiepark.com

73. Bowl into History at Boerne’s turn Verein

Play 18 Holes at Cool Crest Miniature Golf

Now in its 94th season, the vintage feel of the 1929 and 1959 courses remain. After the last putt, visit their Metzger Biergarten (it’s dogand kid-friendly!) for a beer and live music on select evenings. coolcrestgolf.com

Boerne’s nonprofit social bowling club has been an integral part of the nearby town since 1906. Visit during open bowling each Monday, Friday and Saturday. boerneturnverein.com

74. Attend An Artsy PlAydAte

Galleries aren’t just for grownups. Toddlers (2- to 4-year-olds) and their caregivers are invited to the San Antonio Museum of Art on select Wednesday mornings for story time, art making and a totfriendly tour. Themes vary based on the month, but they’re always engaging and meant to make the museum accessible for even the youngest San Antonians. samuseum.org

75. shoP for dIy suPPlIes At sPAre PArts

Spare Parts takes in pre-owned art materials such as yarn, fabric, beads, paint, canvases and school supplies (really anything that will help you achieve your crafting dreams!) and offers them back to the community so you can shop for all your creative hobbies while saving some money and doing your part to reduce the load of our local landfills. Plus, they regularly offer workshops on everything from knitting to mixed media and junk journals. sparepartssa.org

76. CAtCh A drIve-In fl ICk At stArs & strIPes

Head to New Braunfels for a classic drive-in theater experience paired with a new release—like Trolls Band Together, coming out later this year—and diner eats. driveinusa.com/nb

Fun on the Farm

77.

Pick Your Own Apples at Love Creek Orchards in Medina

Not only can you gather your own fruit, but its Apple Store Bakery also offers monthly ice cream flavors, strudels and, of course, awardwinning apple pie (and apple ice cream in season). lovecreekorchards.com

78.

Find the Perfect Pumpkin

Alamo Heights and Helotes Hills United Methodist Churches offer the chance to select a pumpkin without leaving town, while Devine Acres Farm provides an authentic pumpkin patch experience plus the chance to take a hayride, paint pumpkins and other fun. ahumc.org, hhumc.com, devineacresfarm.com/fall

79.

Make

Your Way Through a Corn Maze

Visit Hondo’s family-run Graff 7A Ranch to find your way in (and out of) its 8-acre South Texas Maize, weekends beginning in September. graff7aranch.com

Shopping

80. Sticker Your Laptop with heLp from feLiz modern

This Olmos Park staple (or its sister shop at Pearl) has all the sticker joy. Featuring creations by local artists like Natalie Trinidad and Martha Martinez-Flores plus all the conchas and SATX love, the Felíz sticker wall will give you all the puro feels. felizmodern.com

81. BuY a pair of SaS ShoeS

San Antonio Shoemakers had its first factory in the corner of an unused aircraft hangar on San Antonio’s South Side. Now, they ship their handcrafted shoes internationally and offer everything from athletic sneakers to dress shoes to boots to sandals. Snatch a pair of the new women’s line of sneakers, 7eventy6ix (pronounced 76) that launches this September; they’re a nod to the year the company was founded and feature a ’70s retro style. sasshoes.com

82. take Your pup to a downtown dog market

Follow @dogfriendlysa on Instagram to stay up-to-date with dog-friendly events around town, including the Downtown Dog Market held at Legacy Park every third Saturday of the month that features pet-focused vendors, human- and dog-friendly food, music and more. dogfriendlysanantonio.com

83. Stock Your refrigerator door with LocaL SauceS and condimentS from h-e-B

Pick up iconic Whataburger products like Fancy Ketchup, Jalapeño Ranch or Honey Butter, or opt for Tex-Mex essentials like Mi Tierra’s Tomatillo Sauce (a perfect salsa to become a household staple) or Humble House’s sauces that are each packed with complex spicy and sweet flavors. heb.com

87. channeL sa’s FirsT Lady and dress

For your nexT big evenT aT niche

Erika Prosper Nirenberg is known for her love of supporting local businesses and for her love of Niche, which she’s donned at many an event, including a White House State Dinner earlier this year. Niche owner and creative director Ayse Derman shares how dressing for success and feeling confident at big events doesn’t necessitate a whole new wardrobe, rather just a few good, versatile staples.

Q: Niche’s clothing can transform from everyday pieces to outfits fit for special events. How do you make them so versatile?

suPPorT LocaL makers aT These markeTs

• Boerne Retailers Style Show & Shopping Extravaganza, Sept. 16, The Bevy Hotel, boerneretailers styleandshop.com

• SA Local Market, Sept. 9 and Oct. 14 (plus every second Saturday), Main Plaza, salocalmarket.com

• The Texas Market, Thursdays at Elsewhere Garden Bar & Kitchen and each second and fourth Sunday at Box St. Social at Hemisfair, thetxmrkt.com

85. Piece TogeTher a Picnic aT Larder

And then head outside to Pearl’s park or amphitheater to enjoy it. Here are a few ideas for your basket:

Bexar County Holdman Honey ($9 for 8 ounces) or Lil’ Red’s Smoked Bell Pepper Peanut Dip ($12) with 34 Degrees Original Crisps ($7.25), a fresh salad or sandwich from the deli counter ($9-$14), housemade sugar

sprinkle cookie ($6), and a HighWheel

Betty Kolsch Ale ($5) or Second Pitch Beer

Co. Hometown Lager ($4)

86. order a cusTom-made guayabera

Visit Dos Carolinas to hand pick the fabric, style and all of the other details (pleats, tucks, pockets, etc.) for a guayabera that will fit you and your personality perfectly. doscarolinas.com

A: The pieces from Niche collection are designed to work together as coordinates or mix in with your other favorite clothing from your wardrobe. The fabrics and textures are polished and updated but also comfortable. Feeling good in your clothes is one of the best ways to dress for a special occasion, and we work with fabrics and designs that inspire that feeling.

Q: Are there any Niche staples that you think are perfect for both everyday wear and special events?

A: Yes! One of our most beloved pants, the Meadow Pant, has clean, structured lines with a skirt-like overlay and a full, ankle-length leg that makes a great swishy silhouette when you walk. Tuck in a crisp white shirt or add a boxy crop top and your favorite jewelry to finish the look. Also, our Friday Dress has a body slimming cut with elbow-length sleeves and pockets. That is easy to take from daytime with sandals to night with heels and special accessories. nicheatpearl.com

only san antonio in

88. Party on the Plaza

Head downtown on a first Friday and take the elevator 750 feet up to enjoy happy hour (4:30-7 p.m.) at the Tower of the Americas’ Bar 601. Once you’ve finished that $8 cocktail and $10 fish tacos, travel back downstairs and find a spot outside for Party on the Plaza. Scheduled each first Friday, the evening features free local music (Bittersweet plays Sept. 1) plus food and family fun. toweroftheamericas.com

89. at tend Veterans day Parade

The U.S. Military Veterans Parade Association hosts a Veterans Day parade that goes straight through downtown Military City, starting in Milam Park at 11 a.m. Nov. 11 and moving down Houston Street. usmvpa.com

Become a tourist in your hometown

90. Volunteer at the raul Jimenez thanksgiVing dinner

A tradition since 1979 when Mary and Raul Jimenez invited seniors in need to enjoy Thanksgiving in the parking lot of one of their restaurants, the Raul Jimenez Thanksgiving Dinner now takes place at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center and serves more than 25,000 locals annually. Volunteer registration opens in early November and spots always fill up quickly. rauljimenezdinner.com/volunteer

91. Take A Go Rio Narrated Cruise Connect with the culture, storied history and architecture that colors San Antonio during a 35-minute guided boat tour on the River Walk. goriocruises.com

92. Visit The Alamo

It’s tough to claim you’re a local if you’ve yet to visit the Alamo. Keep it interesting by checking out a musket firing demonstration on the grounds or heading over to the Crockett Building to see a Lego rendering of The Alamo made from over 50,000 bricks. The mission is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Admission is free, but timed entry tickets are required. thealamo.org

93. Do Halloween at a Theme Park

Head to SeaWorld San Antonio for Howl-O-Scream (Sept. 15-Oct. 29). Six Flags

Fiesta Texas hosts Fright Fest (Sept. 9-Oct. 30) while Morgan’s Wonderland offers its More Delightful than Frightful Halloween (Oct. 31). seaworld.com/sanantonio, sixflags.com/ fiestatexas, morgans wonderland.com

94. Take a Ghost Tour

Join Ghost City Tours for a Haunted Pub Crawl that will take you by San Antonio’s most haunted pubs and restaurants. This 90-minutes, adults-only tour begins at Blum Street and Alamo Plaza. ghostcitytours.com

95. Spend Time Museum Hopping Start in the sculpture garden at the McNay Art Museum, and step inside to see Beyond Reality, open through Oct. 15. Along the San Antonio River, check out the San Antonio Museum of Art’s fall

exhibit American Made: Paintings and Sculptures from the DeMell Jacobsen Collection, which opens Oct. 14. Head down Broadway to the Witte Museum or downtown to see the Briscoe Western Art Museum. mcnayart. org, samuseum.org, wittemuseum.org, briscoemuseum.org

96. Visit Pearl

Make reservations at one of the campus’ restaurants or stop by on a weekday morning for a quieter atmosphere in which to enjoy a pan au chocolat from Bakery Lorraine and latte from Local Coffee. atpearl.com

97. Plan

a Day of Free Fun

Explore the Japanese Tea Garden, check Slab Cinema’s schedule for an outdoor movie night, or take advantage of one of many free hours at the city’s museums.

ROAD TRIPS

98. Plan a Wine Tour WiThouT GoinG To FredericksburG

We know there are plenty of stellar vino options along Highway 290 nearby Fredericksburg, but try something new this fall with a tour that takes you up Highway 281 to Stonewall and Johnson City. Here are four stops to consider:

Kuhlman Cellars: The Wine & Food experience includes five samples of wine accompanied with five chef-prepared small bites plus a “wine 101” chat with an expert from the winery. Want something more informal? Consider an outdoor tableside flight. visit.kuhlmancellars.com

Sandy Road Vineyards: Two sisters (and their husbands, including one who is a former winemaker at Spicewood Vineyards and Ron Yates Wines) opened this winery on ranchland their family has owned for nearly 100 years. Make a weekend reservation for a “Treehouse Tasting,” which includes samples of six, 100 percent Texas wines and a charcuterie plate with one of the property’s owners or winemakers plus a fabulous view of the vineyard. sandyroadvineyards.com

Elisa Christopher: The tasting room is intimate here because the winery is still in its early stages with plans for growth, but the wine is well worth a visit. Make reservations for a tasting session that includes sips of four wines, including the Vermentino and Malbec, which won silver medals at the San Francisco International Wine Competition. elisachristopher wines.com

Siboney Cellars: Its Premium Estate Tasting & Tour takes visitors beyond just sips in the tasting room (though it does include that). Guests will also have the chance to take a guided tour of the terrace vineyard and to explore the new barrel cellar and other areas. Culinary boards can be added for an extra fee, and all wines are made from 100 percent Texas-grown grapes. siboneycellars.com

shoP aT The oriGinal round ToP anTiques Fair

It takes just more than two hours to reach the mecca of antiques in nearby Round Top. The semiannual fair (Oct. 23-28 and March 25-30) stretches 11 miles and features furniture, books, china, artwork and more—all 100 percent antique and vintage (no reproductions are allowed here). Mayor Mark Massey says the small town became a year-round destination during COVID as visitors from Dallas, Houston and San Antonio looked for respite outside the city and it remains a popular getaway, whether for antique shopping, dining or weekend stays at places like the Red Antler Bungalows. roundtop texasantiques.com

100. aTTend The Texas MariGold FesT in blanco

The third annual Texas Marigold Festival celebrates the vibrant flowers at the center of many Día de los Muertos celebrations. From Oct. 23-29, take a stroll around historic Blanco square or shop from a variety of food and art vendors while enjoying live music and a multitude of visual displays. texasmarigold festival.com

101. see The leaves aT Garner sTaTe Park or losT MaPles sTaTe naTural area

Get a true taste of the season’s beauty with a visit to one of these gems in Concan or Vanderpool, both less than two hours away. Spaces fill up quickly, so book camping or day passes early. tpwd.texas. gov/state-parks

When Grandparents Become Parents Again

IT ALL STARTED WITH A TEXT. JAN AND Larry Mathis were eating breakfast just after 6 a.m. one morning in 2016 when Jan’s phone pinged with a message from their daughter-in-law in Wisconsin: “Come get the girls,” it read. “Come get the girls, now.”

The couple, who were nearing retirement, had been preparing to golf later that morning and replied immediately: “Are the girls OK?” Jan soon learned that her daughter-in-law was having thoughts of suicide. She hadn’t been home in three days and their granddaughters, then ages 11, 8 and 5, hadn’t even realized they were alone. Their dad, Larry’s son, was in jail in Texas on drug charges.

“Madison, the oldest, had been feeding them and getting them up and off to school,” Jan says, explaining that she thought mommy was just in her room with the door closed. “I called Madison and said, ‘Grandpa is coming to get y’all. Do you have suitcases?’”

They didn’t, so Jan instructed Madison to pack whatever she and her sisters, Teagan and Raylan, could fit in their backpacks.

Larry, meanwhile, was on the phone with Southwest Airlines. He wanted to ensure he got to his granddaughters before Child Protective Services found them and put them in someone else’s care. Within an hour he was on a plane. Larry’s son and the kids’ mom are both veterans, who suffered from PTSD following military deployments, and the condition had only worsened when their fourth daughter died of SIDS a few years earlier.

With Larry en route, Jan posted in their neighborhood Facebook group that they were about to take in their three granddaughters and didn’t have anything for them. Would anyone have hand-me-down clothes to share? Their front porch was soon full of clothing, toys and stacks of Beanie Babies.

The couple bought beds in the days to come and began to settle into a new routine. They would soon gain conservatorship of the children and go on to adopt the kids.

What they didn’t realize, however, was that because the girls had never entered foster care, they didn’t qualify for any benefits or support.

The adoption alone cost $20,000 (Jan estimates it would have been closer to $1,200 per child if they’d adopted through foster care). Along with no stipend to cover basics like

Grandparents bringing up their grandkids say they feel forgotten by a government system built for traditional foster care, and while local state lawmakers want to help, change has been slow

food and clothing, the girls didn’t qualify for counseling, the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) or college tuition assistance like is provided to foster kids in Texas.

“We’re very fortunate that (we can provide for them), but there are a lot of grandparents who are raising grandkids and they can’t even afford to feed them,” Jan says. “I strongly feel that these kids deserve the same benefits as foster kids. It’s not about putting money in my pocket. It’s about giving them health care, college, counseling.” •••

In 2022, a little more than 40 percent of children removed from their homes by CPS in Texas were living in a kinship placement, which means with a relative, like their grandparent, or a close family contact, such as a neighbor (known as fictive kin). Numerous studies have shown that children tend to have better behavioral and mental health outcomes when placed with family. Kids living with relatives are also much more likely to remain in that placement. When in non-relative foster care, 39 percent of children in Texas move two or more times in any given year, according to the Annie E. Casey Foundation Kids Count Data Center, which often exacerbates behavioral and educational issues and makes it tougher to maintain ties to the people and places they once knew.

Angela White, president and CEO of Child Advocates of San Antonio, says if a child can’t live with their parents, other family members are the next best option. “There’s a culture, a sense of belonging—there are deep roots planted there,” she says.

Knowing that, Mercedes Bristol, founder and executive director of the San Antonio nonprofit Texas Grandparents Raising Grandchildren, says she can’t understand why state lawmakers don’t do more to support grandparents and other relatives.

When a grandparent takes in a child from foster care, they qualify for $12.67 per day for each child for up to a year if they’re living at less than 300 percent of the federal poverty limit (which means less than $59,160 for a two-person household).

Certified foster parents, in contrast, receive $27.07 per day, or more if they’re caring for children with higher needs.

Grandparents and other relatives can receive that higher rate if they complete certification classes and home studies required of foster parents, but Bristol says the barriers to doing that are too high for many grandparents. The classes that must be completed can be difficult to attend whether because of transportation

issues, the absence of time when working and caring for young children, or a lack of funds for childcare. Plus, many take in their grandchildren at a moment’s notice and aren’t living in a home that was meant for multiple kids. Passing a home study can require making changes, or, in some cases, being forced to move somewhere with more space—all of which can be too costly.

Like the Mathis family, many grandparents are caring for their grandchildren without a formal CPS placement, which means no option for benefits exists. Bristol calls those kids “hidden foster children” and says estimates show that for every one child raised by kin in foster care, there are 24 living with kin outside of the formal system. Of the 1,600 grandparents her organization has served, about 70 percent had no CPS case and therefore no financial assistance.

White says even when there is a CPS case, many grandparents who’ve taken in grandchildren are hesitant to ask for help or don’t know assistance is available. CASA volunteers, who act as advocates for kids when their case goes before a judge, work to let caregivers know what resources are available, whether state funds or clothing, car seats and other necessities that local nonprofits like Vault Fostering Community, can often help provide.

“They think, ‘Well, it’s my granddaughter, I shouldn’t have to ask for help,’” she says, “But it’s there for them and it’s there for that reason, it shouldn’t be seen as shameful to ask for the help that’s needed.”

Bristol says her organization also refers grandparents to places that can provide support. Her own experience and lack of resources drove her to create the

organization in the first place. Bristol’s five grandchildren were placed with her by the state over a decade ago. She was not a licensed foster home, and with a full-time job, commute and five children in different schools and daycares, taking certification classes was not feasible.

She applied for a one-time, $1,000 Temporary Assistance for Needy Families grant to help with the expense of things like beds but was turned down because the value of her car was too high.

Four of her five grandchildren were diagnosed with ADHD and one with PTSD. After two years of struggling, Bristol thought there had to be other grandparents out there like her who she could at least talk to.

“For a while, I thought, ‘I don’t know if I can do this,’” she says. “It was a lot.”

She started a support group that met at the Northside ISD school her grandkids were attending and her organization grew from there. It’s now a nonprofit that hosts support groups and connects grandparents with resources throughout Texas. Bristol has also become a vocal advocate for change at the state level.

“It doesn’t matter how much food or stuff you give us,” says Bristol, who still has three grandchildren living at home. “If we don’t change policies, grandparents are always going to be in need.”

•••

State Rep. Barbara Gervin-Hawkins and State Sen. José Menéndez, both San Antonio Democrats, say they support removing the requirement that grandparents complete foster care licensing to receive higher reimbursement rates. Gervin-Hawkins filed a bill during the last session that would have done just that, as well as allowing for payments to kinship to continue past 12 months if the child remains in their care. That bill, along with other similar legislation, gained little traction and was ultimately left untouched when the session ended. It was also not added to any special session agendas by Gov. Greg Abbott, despite Gervin-Hawkins’ requests.

One bill that did pass will make it easier for families to receive SNAP (food stamp) benefits. Before, a family could be disqualified if their first vehicle was worth $15,000 or more (and if subsequent vehicles were valued at $4,650 or higher)—a similar requirement to the one that disqualified Bristol from a TANF grant. Now, the first vehicle can be valued up to $22,500 and subsequent vehicles up to $8,700.

While that will help families who were having to decide between keeping their

running car—which is needed to get kids to school and appointments—and qualifying for assistance with groceries, Bristol says it’s not nearly enough.

Menéndez, who has met with Bristol and other grandparents multiple times, agrees the state should do more, particularly with the number of grandparents living on Social Security while caring for kids.

“We should put them on par with foster families—especially because we have such a lack of foster families and have children without placements,” he says.

Even if a family is caring for grandchildren outside the system, Menéndez says he believes some assistance, particularly mental health care and education support, should be available. Unfortunately, he says, the political will to do so simply isn’t there.

“We have a state that prides itself on its conservativeness, so it wants to have a small budget every session,” he says. “It’s been frustrating to not see these advances.”

Gervin-Hawkins says she’ll file her bill again next session and will continue to

Jan and Larry Mathis wouldn’t make a different decision knowing what they know now. They just wish there was more support.

“I wish I had known how much it would change our lives,” Jan says. “I would never say don’t do it. I would never let these kids be in the system, but it sure did change our lives.”

Since retiring, finding insurance has been an issue since their granddaughters can’t be added to their Medicare plans. The girls have also required counseling at different times, which costs $130 out-ofpocket each session. Larry works as a bus driver for NISD to help cover extra costs.

Jan and Larry live on 2 acres in Northwest San Antonio in the same home Larry’s parents owned for decades. It’s a frequent gathering place for extended family and has allowed the Mathis girls to remain connected to cousins, aunts and uncles.

Still, Jan says each granddaughter has her own struggles. Madison wants nothing to do with the mother who left her while Raylan, the youngest, doesn’t understand why her mom won’t at least call on her birthday. Their dad, now out of prison, does visit on holidays.

champion it until it passes.

Denise Smith, a caseworker at Grandparents Raising Grandchildren who is raising three of her grandkids, was one of those grandmothers who struggled to pay bills when the kids were first placed with her. One of her grandsons has complex medical needs and those first few months, she was taking him to appointments nearly every day while still caring for her own teenage children. CPS, she says, provided little guidance. Smith believes CPS needs to at least offer case management for caregivers so that families like hers can be better supported with resources when they have financial and other needs.

CASA’s White adds that without funding, some kinship placements aren’t able to keep children in their care, which is exactly what more support would prevent. She understands expanding benefits to grandparents whose grandkids don’t have CPS cases opens up more opportunity for fraud. But, she says, children need to be the priority. “Look after these kids and the families that surround them and love them,” she says. “Poverty in and of itself should not be a reason for removal.”

“I tell them their mother made the hardest decision a mother could ever make and that is turning over her children for somebody else to raise, so that they could be successful,” Jan says.

That has resonated with Madison, who testified before the state during the last legislative session that she “couldn’t be more grateful” for the opportunity her grandparents have given her to succeed. She graduated from Health Careers High School this year and earned a full ride to Mercy College in New York, where she’ll start in the fall. “They were willing to sacrifice everything to give us a better chance. And they have,” she told lawmakers.

Jan knows they’re fortunate. They’d saved for retirement and paid off their home and though it’s certainly not easy— they’re still figuring out how to cover the cost of housing not included in Madison’s scholarship—they’re able to provide. Many of the grandparents Jan has met through Grandparents Raising Grandchildren are struggling to simply purchase groceries.

Like Bristol, she says she’ll continue to seek policy changes knowing that even if it doesn’t happen in time for her granddaughters, it will benefit many families.

“We as grandparents meet the definition of fostering—which is bringing up a child that is not one’s own by birth,” she says. “Our grandchildren deserve and need help and benefits, as well.”

“If we don’t change policies, grandparents are always going to be in need.”

THE RIVER WALK IN

BEST DINING

You don’t have to settle for mediocre restaurant experiences if you’re visiting the River Walk. Sure, it’s easy to get caught in some tourist traps with forgettable dishes and rushed service, but instead take a moment to plan your meals and you’ll find some independent restaurants and solid hotel spots that won’t disappoint. Here, we curate 10 must-try eateries

AMBLER

Sitting at a table near Marriage Island and watching people amble past the Hotel Contessa, this terrific dining experience can feel like it’s hiding in plain sight. Solid culinary execution, a relaxed and stylish vibe and attentive service make for a combination worth a visit, regardless of whether you’re a local or a San Antonio guest. Housemade syrups and infusions elevate the cocktails and give the bar program a craft feel. Bring some friends and split an order of fancy signature nachos on the happy hour menu before settling in for dinner.

WHY IT’S ON THE LIST: Strong performances on the bar side and the restaurant add up to a place that deserves to be on your must-visit list.

ORDER THIS: Blackened Gulf red snapper

306 W. Market St. in Hotel Contessa

210-298-8040

amblersanantonio.com

Breakfast and lunch Mon-Fri, brunch Sat-Sun, dinner daily

BIGA ON THE BANKS

It would be easy to think that landing in the inaugural class of Food & Wine magazine’s “Best New Chefs” back in 1988 would give Bruce Auden a reason to coast, but that’s not Auden’s style. The understated and often irreverent OG of San Antonio celebrity chefs continues to lead his team to strong, consistent culinary execution. His chicken-fried oysters, radicchio game packets and sticky toffee pudding have become San Antonio favorites, while the menu changes regularly with items suggested by members of his culinary team. Pro tip: Get the bread service.

WHY IT’S ON THE LIST: It’s the best restaurant on the river, period.

ORDER THIS: 11 spiced South Texas antelope, Lockhart quail

203 S. St. Mary’s St. 210-225-0722

biga.com

Dinner daily

BOUDRO’S

The prickly pear margarita and tableside guacamole have beckoned visitors since 1986 and continue to help pack tables along the river. Like San Antonio itself, the menu serves as a gathering place where different cultures meet. Here, it’s the flavors of Mexico, San Antonio and Louisiana. Servers skillfully guide newcomers through the menu and beverage pairings. It’s not a steakhouse, but the steak section more than holds its own, especially with the wine list that offers a strong selection of bold reds.

Boudro’s hasn’t changed much over the years, and that’s a good thing. Sometimes there’s no reason to mess with tradition.

WHY IT’S ON THE LIST: When you want a good margarita on the River Walk, this is the place.

ORDER THIS: Tableside guacamole, blackened prime rib

421 E. Commerce St. 210-224-8484

boudros.com

Lunch and dinner daily

DOMINGO

Start the evening with a cocktail at the rooftop bar, Otro, where you can look over the river and let time stand still for a few moments while sipping your drink. Then, go to the river level for some Mexican-inspired dishes that draw crowds of visitors and locals, even on weeknights. The restaurant design combines Spanish Colonial touches with a clean, contemporary feel to give a sense of a modern Latin American city. Meanwhile, dishes such as a refreshing herb- and flowertopped halibut ceviche and a lively salad of baby spinach with golden beets, strawberries, gorgonzola and coconut chips offer vibrant flavors to match the colors.

WHY IT’S ON THE LIST: Good food, solid service and a stylish setting make for a terrific evening on the River Walk.

ORDER THIS: Tuna tostada

123 N. St. Mary’s St. in Canopy by Hilton San Antonio 210-404-7516

domingorestaurant.com

Breakfast and lunch Mon-Fri, brunch Sat-Sun, dinner daily

DORREGO’S

If you’ve already had your enchiladas and margaritas on the River Walk and are looking for something a bit more luxurious, try the very good steaks and hearty Malbecs with a river view at Dorrego’s.

The Argentinian-inspired menu includes empanadas, choripán (chorizo in a mini baguette), the famed melted cheese called provoleta and a paella that holds its own against other restaurants—and good home-cooked versions, too. Unlike other spots on the river, the vibe here stays intimate and relaxed, even when the tables are filled. This is where you go for a nice, quiet meal away from the tourist crowds.

WHY IT’S ON THE LIST: Good steaks, beef-friendly wines, cozy ambiance and professional service— and a view of the river away from the crowds.

ORDER THIS: Paella, provoleta, ribeye

150 E. Houston St. in Hotel Valencia 210-230-8454

dorregos.com

Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily

LANDRACE

Whether or not celebrity chef Steve McHugh is overseeing the action in the kitchen, hospitality veteran chef Michelle Velez keeps everything humming as if he’s right on the line. “We work really well together,” she says.

The Orlando native moved to San Antonio about 10 years ago as executive pastry chef at the Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and took on savory cooking during the days of COVID-induced staff cutbacks. She came to the Thompson San Antonio Riverwalk last November and was recently promoted to serve as executive sous chef of the hotel, which includes leading the team at Landrace.

Now, her crew executes McHugh’s culinary vision of emphasizing South Texas terroir in flavors and ingredients, while also incorporating a few of her own ideas. “Chef Steve is an amazing mentor, so I just keep working with him and pushing myself,” Velez says. “We have a good team.”

WHY IT’S ON THE LIST: Outstanding dishes and polished service shine on a less-traveled section of the River Walk.

ORDER THIS: The raw fish dish, seasonal catch, grilled Gulf oysters

111 Lexington Ave. in the Thompson San Antonio Riverwalk 210-942-6026

landracetx.com

Breakfast and lunch Mon-Fri, brunch Sat-Sun, dinner daily

OCHO

In the morning, this may be one of the most underrated breakfast attractions in the city. Later in the day and evening, it’s still worth the wait if there’s a line for a table. Strong dishes from chef Jesse Kuykendall, efficient service, a stylish setting and fun view of the river add up to a must-visit culinary attraction. Chef Kirk’s playful menu emphasizes Mexican and Cuban flavors with accents from different parts of the world, all with delicious results.

WHY IT’S ON THE LIST: Whether you’re pairing dishes with coffee in the morning or cocktails in the evening, you can’t go wrong.

ORDER THIS: Mollejas de Puebla (beef sweetbreads served shawarma style), Guascaca con Chapulín (tostadas topped with a Venezuelan avocado puree and Oaxaca-style toasted grasshoppers). Grasshoppers? Trust us on this one.

1015 Navarro St. in Hotel Havana 210-222-2008

bunkhousehotels.com/hotel-havana/ eat-drink/ocho

Breakfast Mon-Fri, brunch Sat-Sun, dinner daily

OSTRA

Known as a seafood destination on the River Walk since it opened more than 10 years ago, Ostra continues to meet (and exceed) expectations. The house margarita brings back memories of the late and muchlamented Las Canarias, while the range of dishes offers flavors for dedicated seafood aficionados and those who still want something more meat-centric or vegetable forward. The range of vegetable dishes throughout the menu marks an evolution from the restaurant’s early days—and a good one at that.

WHY IT’S ON THE LIST: When you’re craving good seafood on the river, Ostra delivers.

ORDER THIS: Blackened redfish, hamachi crudo with Tajín vinaigrette

212 W. Crockett St. in Omni La Mansión del Rio 210-396-5817

omnihotels.com/hotels/san-antoniola-mansion-del-rio/dining/ostra

Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily

SUPPER

The inspired notes on this menu come from the clever juxtapositions of ingredients, flavors and textures in each dish. So instead of classic hush puppies, it’s fritters of cornmeal and smoked snapper, which pair brilliantly. Elsewhere on this menu, successes abound. Service fits the casual yet well studied feel of the rest of the hotel, which continually garners raves from travel magazines and websites. This is a popular spot for power lunches and dinner meetings, but you’re here to enjoy. Take the time and savor everything—the cocktails, wines, small vegetable plates, salads and main dishes.

You’ll especially want to linger over desserts from pastry chef Sofía Tejeda, a James Beard Award semifinalist and a UNESCO chef ambassador for San Antonio. The Mexico City native came to San Antonio as a middle schooler and graduated from Churchill High School before going to the Culinary Institute of America - San Antonio. She combines cultures and her experience from hotels and high-end restaurants in her work

“I like to use a lot of flavors I grew up with. Dulce de leche, mango, passionfruit—all these fruits I grew up with I love to use,” Tejeda says. “I like playing with flavors that are nostalgic to everyone.”

WHY IT’S ON THE LIST: Local ingredients shine in this stunning hotel’s flagship restaurant.

ORDER THIS: Crispy Hill Country quail, Brussels sprouts and cauliflower, whatever is on the regularly changing dessert menu

136 E. Grayson St. in Hotel Emma 877-524-0031

supperatemma.com

Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily

TRE TRATTORIA

Stop first at the latest compelling exhibition at the San Antonio Museum of Art or just zip straight into the museum restaurant where chef Jason Dady has been delighting diners since 2018. Because sometimes, you just have to dive right into the freshly pulled mozzarella, housemade pastas, cast iron pizza and famed Nutella X3 dessert. Before Dady moved to the museum, his original Broadway location packed tables for 10 years. Along the river, his team celebrates comfortable flavors in a rustic space that lends itself to casual relaxing or dressing up a bit for a special dinner out. Sip on a prosecco while overlooking one of the more picturesque views of the River Walk’s Museum Reach.

WHY IT’S ON THE LIST: A local favorite for more than a decade gives many reasons to visit.

ORDER THIS: Roasted golden beets, gnocchi with gorgonzola crema

200 W. Jones Ave. at the San Antonio Museum of Art 210-805-0333

tretrattoria.com

Lunch and dinner Tues-Sun

F A C E S O F S A

What defines San Antonio?

More than its top-notch culinary scene, military and technology sectors and even the Spurs, it’s the authentic and talented people who make up the face of San Antonio. The most ambitious of those lead the business community in a variety of industries. In this special advertising section, San Antonio Magazine gives them a spotlight to tell their stories.

The Face of DERMATOLOGY

TEXAS SKIN & VEIN

Get a dose of Texas hospitality at Texas Skin and Vein, where the emphasis is on the patient experience and quality time with your provider. Old-fashioned customer service along with the newest technology is what you will find here. Texas Skin and Vein brings years of experience and medical staff named on San Antonio’s Top Doctors for 2023. This veteran-owned small business is also proud to help our service members and their families here in Military City, USA.

This year brings the exciting addition of San Antonio native and dermatologist Dr. Angela Martini, M.D. She is a Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology and a distinguished graduate of Rice, Texas Tech, and UT Health San Antonio. Dermatology is her superpower—providing expert medical, surgical and cosmetic dermatology services.

Find out what everyone is talking about and make an appointment today!

210-907-VEIN (8346) • TXSKINANDVEIN.COM

CASTLE HILLS: 2241 N.W. MILITARY HWY.

WESTOVER HILLS (NEW LOCATION): 3903 WISEMAN BLVD.

PICTURED LEFT TO RIGHT: DR. ANGELA MARTINI, MICHAEL DE LA VEGA PA-C, DR. TIMOTHY M. STRAIGHT

The Face of VEIN CARE

TIMOTHY STRAIGHT, MD PHD TEXAS SKIN & VEIN

Night cramps, dull aches, heaviness and restlessness in the legs are frequently overlooked signs of vein disease. Many live with these symptoms for years or develop discoloration and other problems as the disease progresses. Don’t let this happen to you! There are newer and more advanced procedures to avoid surgery and dramatically improve these symptoms. These problems are not cosmetic, so health insurance often covers treatment. In the right hands, a variety of cosmetic solutions are also available to improve the appearance of your legs or other areas with varicose veins.

Dr. Straight specializes in both advanced vein treatment and cosmetic procedures to provide a comprehensive solution to your problem. He is a nationally invited speaker and published author. Join the thousands of happy patients who decided to do something about their vein problem.

• San Antonio Top Doctors – 2023

• Board Certified in Dermatology

• Board Certified in Venous and Lymphatic Medicine

210-907-VEIN (8346)

TXSKINANDVEIN.COM

CASTLE HILLS:

2241 N.W. MILITARY HWY., STE. 200

WESTOVER HILLS (NEW LOCATION): 3903 WISEMAN BLVD., STE. 302

TOP DOCTORS 2023

The Face of FAMILY OWNED BUSINESS REAL ESTATE

LEESA HARPER RISPOLI | COLDWELL BANKER D’ANN HARPER, REALTORS®

As second-generation broker and president, Leesa Harper Rispoli is the innovative leader of Coldwell Banker D’Ann Harper, REALTORS® (CBDHR). Leesa’s notable “can-do” attitude in the face of challenges has paved the way for CBDHR agents to evolve as leaders at the top of an ever-changing industry. Under Leesa’s leadership, CBDHR has expanded as a modern traditional brokerage made up of over 550 real estate professionals serving Central and South Texas.

The company boasts divisions in residential, luxury, commercial and land/ranch sales in addition to Harper Property Management and an award-winning relocation department. CBDHR has consistently achieved over $1 billion in sales revenue for 13 years with portions of each transaction contributing to the Communities in Schools project. As a champion of women leaders and an upholder of CBDHR’s legacy of innovation and excellence, Leesa Harper Rispoli is a shining example of what it means to be the Face of Family Owned Business in Real Estate.

210-483-7070 • CBHARPER.COM

18756 STONE OAK PKWY., STE. 101, SAN ANTONIO, TX, 78258

The Faces of BANKING

BROADWAY BANK

For more than 82 years, Broadway Bank has been an integral part of San Antonio, evolving into one of the largest independently owned banks in the state with more than $5 billion in assets and $3 billion in wealth management assets. Broadway Bank offers a full range of financial services including personal, private, business, mortgage banking and wealth management. With financial centers across the Lone Star State, Broadway Bank is proud to provide a modern banking experience that’s locally sourced and personally delivered.

210-283-6500 • BROADWAY.BANK • MEMBER FDIC 1177 N.E. LOOP 410, SAN ANTONIO, TX 78209

PICTURED, LEFT TO RIGHT: EMONA RONS, CHRIS R. RAY, MICHELLE BEZA, BRIAN BIGGS AND JENNI BRUSEWITZ

The Faces of DENTAL

7 TO 7 DENTAL

Since 2008, 7 to 7 Dental has been the leading dental care provider in San Antonio and Cibolo. We understand the demands of modern life, which is why dental care is made easy here 7 days a week.

We take great pride in being the face of dentistry and will continue transforming dental experiences for years to come. Still locally owned and operated, Dr. Tiffany Winburn and Justin Coke invite you to experience the 7 to 7 difference for yourself! Come see why so many families choose 7 to 7 Dental as their oral health provider!

210-495-2000

7TO7DENTAL.COM

FEATURED: DR. MICHAEL ROBERTS, MIKE BURNS, DR. REBECA GARCIA, JUSTIN COKE, MONICA RODRIGUEZ, DR. VICTOR PARRA, TRAVIS DEZUBA, DR. ELIZABETH DOMAN

The Faces of FINANCIAL FIDUCIARY

TEXAS FINANCIAL ADVISORY

Founded in 2008, Texas Financial Advisory is a boutique Fiduciary Independently Owned Financial Management firm specializing in comprehensive planning for individuals, families and small businesses. Our team of professionals offers personalized strategies in wealth management, tax planning and estate planning to help maximize your financial confidence. With a holistic approach, we prioritize your unique goals and tailor strategies to help preserve and grow your wealth.

Experience the confidence of knowing our fiduciary duty helps ensure your best interests are always at the forefront. Start your journey toward financial confidence with your very own customized TFA Financial Roadmap today!

Investment advisory services offered through Queen B Advisors, LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor, which does business as (d/b/a) Texas Financial Advisory. Insurance products, tax preparation services, and estate planning services are offered through Texas Insurance Advisory, Texas Tax Advisory, and Texas Estate Advisory, respectively, all of which also do business as Texas Financial Advisory. Insurance products, tax preparation, and estate planning are offered separate from investment advisory services. Neither Queen B Advisors nor Texas Financial Advisory offer tax or legal advice.

210-530-1292

• INFO@TEXASFINANCIALADVISORY.COM

TEXASFINANCIALADVISORY.COM

SAN ANTONIO / NEW BRAUNFELS / BOERNE

PICTURED, LEFT TO RIGHT: MARITZA MORALES, MARIO BARRERA, YVETTE VILLANUEVA BARRERA, BROOKLYNN CHANDLER WILLY, TAMMIE TIRRES, BECKY WILLET

The Face of LASIK EYE SURGERY

LAUREN LIBFRAIND, MD PARKHURST NUVISION

Dr. Lauren Libfraind, the Face of LASIK in San Antonio, is one of the most sought-after eye surgeons in Texas!

Not only did she move to San Antonio after completing an Ivy League education, she is also a two-time NCAA champion athlete.

With her many academic and athletic accomplishments, this all-star woman trained at one of the top vision correction centers in the world, right here at Parkhurst NuVision in San Antonio, Texas. And last year Dr. Libfraind became the first woman in the country to perform a new vision correction procedure called the EVO ICL, a modern LASIK alternative. It’s no wonder this outstanding female is the face of LASIK in San Antonio.

If you want to just wake up and see, book a consultation with Dr. Libfraind today! ‘No glasses. No contacts. NuVision!’

210-585-2020

PARKHURSTNUVISION.COM

9725 DATAPOINT DRIVE, STE. 106 SAN ANTONIO, TX 78229

The Gallery: Contemporary at Blue Star

The Artist: Cathy Cunningham-Little

CATHY CUNNINGHAM-LITTLE REMEMBERS WATCHING AS A FLUORESCENT TUBE GLOWED AND DIMMED in her hands near the radio towers in her backyard as a kid. Looking back, the artist says it was moments like that—checking radio signals with her father, a ham shortwave radio operator—that sparked her curiosity of visual perception, time and space.

Her exploration of those elements led to the dynamic light, color and glass sculptures that she is now known for. It’s also part of why the Contemporary at Blue Star selected her as the honoree at this year’s Red Dot sale and fundraiser on Oct. 4. Cunningham-Little is being recognized with a video about her career by Woody Lawson and VANTAS Productions, and a number of her elaborate pieces will be on display in a mini career retrospective of sorts.

“Red Shimmer,” a suspended sculpture that sparkles to life with the help of nearby movements, will be one of her newest pieces included in Red Dot. To create it, Cunningham-Little carefully arranged 144 strips of glass inside a cube to create a sphere within the cube.

In her work, color—brought to life with light and the angling of glass—serves as both material and subject while occasionally conveying ephemeral and illusory qualities often seen in painting. “Light is intangible, but when it is absorbed by an object it becomes visible. So light then becomes visible, reality becomes physical,” Cunningham-Little says.