San Antonio Magazine September/October 2025

The garcias hit the flavorjackpotinLakeCharles –digging intoperfect gumbo, heartypo’boys,and the freshestseafood. This is howtheypackfor joyinLakeCharles. Howwill you?

AFusionofElegant Motion & Intelligent Engineering

Introducingthe Luma Office by BDI.

AvailablelocallyatCopenhagen

Sharpen your focus and find your flow with thenew Luma Office by BDI.Intuitively designedtooffer tech-forwardfunctionalityand premium finishes, Luma brings cutting-edge engineering to the forefrontthrough an innovativefour-leg lift desk withsilky smooth motion, satin-etched glass, and integrated cablemanagement. Pair with thematching pedestal and credenzafor a crisp, professionalfeel.

SeeSan Antonio From aNew Perspective.

LocatedinDowntownWest,300 Main is wherebreathtaking views,sky-loungeliving,and aresort-stylepool deck come together to elevate the wayyou live.

CO NTEN TS

ATURES

40 Take aHike Discover San Antonio’s history on the trails.

50 From Drab to Fab San Pedro Creek’s playful must-see makeover.

56 Hearing Health Early detection can improve overall quality of life.

IN THE LO OP

14 History

Remember “The Alamo”: When Hollywoodcame to S.A.

16 Development

Shades of Green nursery prepares for anew season

20 Culture

Meet the new class of UNESCO chef ambassadors.

EA T+DRINK

24 EatHere Now Michelin Guide nod inspires Signature to reach for more.

28 Libations

Wine Folly guide releases in time for Texas Wine Month.

TH EG OOD LIFE

30 Travel

Recharge at Ambiente under the starry skies in Sedona, Ariz.

34 Mi Casa

Santa Barbara meets S.A. in Dominion Tree House Project.

114 CowParade S.A. Have you herd? Hoof it around the city to see thesebovines WO RK OF ART

On the cover

Ryan Williams and Leah Fuentes hike with their daughter, Vivian, along theSan Antonio River Walk Mission Reach near Espada Dam.

WHETHER YOU LOVE ITOR HATE IT, PUMPKINSPICE SEASON AND FALL ARE IN THE AIR. THIS ISSUE is packed with ways to exploreour surroundings, to getoutside,tomoveour bodies andtoengagewithart

More than 250miles of trails connectour city to nature.Theyalsoconnect our presenttothelayeredpastofSpanishcolonization,Frenchrule,thefightforTexas’independence from Mexico andtoTexas’identitytoday as the28thstate in theUnitedStates. Thecover story features atrail guidethatweavesSan Antonio’ssignificant historyasone of oldest cities in Texas into thelandmarks that tell that story.

Morerecently,thecompletedSanPedroCreekprojectmeanderstothewesternedgeofdowntown,withpublic worksbylocal artistsalong theway that awaitexploration

MOO-ve your hide over to WorksofArt,and then go seeCowParade SanAntonio,the colorful herd of public artworks alloverthe city,beforethe cows arelive-auctionedoff at adinnerSept. 25 at theRed Berry Estate.Proceedswill benefitChristusChildren’s.

OctoberisAudiologyAwarenessMonth,andSanAntonioranks10thinthecountryforhearing loss prevalence.The largemilitaryand retiredveterans’ community here in MilitaryCityUSA has experiencedhighnoise exposure.Learn howtoprevent andtreat hearingloss, andwhy earlydetectionissoimportant

This city is belovedand knownfor ourhospitality. We highlight twoofthe best city ambassadors —LaCantera Resort andSpa concierges John Ruiz andJoanPerez,who were influencers before social mediaand Google.Their storyillustratesthe relevanceofthiscareerpathtoday and theirdream to cultivatemoreprofessional hotelconciergesintothe prestigiousLes Clefsd’Or USAassociation

CheckDatebook forthe many upcoming festivalsand events.There trulyissomething for everyone in thediverse cultural celebrations this season

Jennifer McInnis Editor-In-Chief &General Manager jennifer.mcinnis@sanantoniomag.com @sanantoniomag

ED ITORIA L

Editor-In-Chief

GeneralManager

Jennifer McInnis

Editor Jan Waddy

Contributing Writers

Terry Scott Bertling

MistyHarris

Becca Hensley

Jim Kiest

Sallie Lewis

Richard A. Marini

Deborah Martin

Melissa Renteria

Paul Stephen

Edmund Tijerina

Copy Editors

Jaundrea Clay

Gary Fulghum

Nancy Floeck Wilson

AR T

ArtDirector

Adrián Alvarez

Contributing Photographers

Abigail Im

JoMando Cruz

Dayna DeHoyos

Christopher Lee

Josie Norris

Paul Stephen

Chris Stokes

Mike Sutter

Salgu Wissmath

BU SINESS OPERATIONS

Publisher

Mark Medici

AD VERTISIN G

ChiefRevenue Officer

Kate Weber

Senior MarketingDirector

Sara Bryant

Director of MarketingRevenue

Maxine Pittman

Events Director

Lauren Sposetta

DI GITAL

Audience Producers

Abigail Im Abigail Stewart

CI RCU LATION

Audience Development

Director

Tom Nork

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StoryIdeas, Letters to theEditor editor@sanantoniomag.com

BY MELISSA RENTERIA

IN THE LO OP

Remembering‘TheAlamo’ 65 YearsLater

John Wayne’s passion project made SanAntonio aHollywood hot spot

ACTOR JOHN WAYNE’S 14-YEARQUEST TO GETTHE Shrine of TexasLiberty’s storyonthe bigscreen culminated in athree-daypremiereparty in the historical site’s hometown

Hollywood came to SanAntonio 65 yearsago to celebrate Wayne’s$12millionepic“TheAlamo,”whichhaditsworldpremiereOct.24,1960,atWoodlawn TheatreonFredericksburg Road

Thepremierebroughtthefilm’sstarsbacktoTexas,where themoviewasshotinlate1959,newspaperarchivesshow.The film’s three-monthshoot took placeona setdubbedAlamo Village that wasbuilt outsideBrackettville,about 100miles west of SanAntonio

Wayne,whoplayedDavyCrockettinthefilm,alsodirected andproducedit.OtherstarsincludeRichardWidmark,RichardBoone, FrankieAvalonand Chill Wills

Thepremierein1960wasn’tSanAntoniofirsttimehosting moviestars

TheOscar-winning silent movie“Wings” wasfilmed in late 1926 at Fort SamHouston, Camp Bullis,Kelly Fieldand variousother localesinSan Antonioand BexarCounty, accordingtoarchives.Starsofthefilm,including ClaraBow,Charles “Buddy”Rogersand RichardArlen,stayedatthe St.Anthony Hotel downtown

Amongthe otherHollywood filmsshotin SanAntonio are“Cloak& Dagger,”“Selena” and“Miss Congeniality.”

Thepossibilityformoremoviestobemade in theAlamo City lookspromising Gov.GregAbbottinJunesignedSenateBill 22,which establishesa fund to providecash grantsforprojectsfilmedinTexasoverthenext decade.Itwillallowthestatecomptrollertodeposit$300millionintothe fund everytwo yearsuntil 2035.

Themove, supporterssaid, will help lure more productionsawayfromstatesthatprovidefilmmakingincentives,includingtaxcredits, rebatesand grants.

ForfilmmakerslikeWayne,suchincentives were neverwithinreach

Ina2010interviewwiththeSanAntonioExpress-News,Wayne’swidow,Pilar,talkedofher husband’sdecadelongdedicationtogetting “The Alamo” made,ultimatelyusing much of hispersonalwealthfor thefilm’s production

“Hewas very sentimentalabout it,and he didn’tcarewhatitcostoranything,”shesaid. ★

Shades of Green’sNextChapter

Beloved nursery plans to grow its legacy forgenerations

TO PLANT AGARDEN IS TO BELIEVE in tomorrow,”saidAudreyHepburn, summing up thespiritual andhealingaspectsofbeingaroundplants.A consummate gardener,naturelover andadvocate of simple pleasures, Hepburnwould surely haveapplaudedwhatbelovedSanAntonionurseryShadesofGreenisplanningtodonext

ReigningforfourdecadesasoneofSanAntonio’smostcherished nurseries, Shades of Green will take anew directionthisyear. After December,the verdantpatch,inAlamo Heightsbetween Broadway andU.S.281,will closefor conventional business to become the tranquil Legacy Garden

Open to thepublic,the transformedspace, brimming with undulating pathways,blooming flowersandleafynooks,willprovidearetreatfor repose,meditationand inspiration. As anatural sanctuary, with educationalgoals anda mission topreservetheproperty’slushnessforfuturegenerations(aswellaslightentheirourburdens),the garden will be overseen by anonprofit foundation:ShadesofGreenLegacyFoundation

Thenursery will remain stockedthrough

theendofyear,closinginearly2026tofinalize newgardenspaces,makesitechangesandprepare thefacilityfor itspeacefulnew phase.

WhenShadesofGreenreopensasazenlike haven, you’ll have longtime owners Roberta Churchin andBob Webstertothank.They’re donating thepropertyand thegarden’slandscapearchitecturetothe newlyformednonprofit —and,ofcourse, thecommunity.

“We’ve always lovedthatthrough theyears peoplecometothenurserynotonlyforplants buttoenjoy thebeautyand serenity it offers,” said Shades of Green co-founder Churchin “The Legacy Garden will be apeacefulplace to gather,observe nature,and experience quiet surroundings.”

“Thisisour thank-youtothe community thathassupportedusforsomanyyears,”add-

edWebster.“Wewantedtoprotectthebeautiful, towering cypresstrees that we planted andcreatea quietsanctuary that will serveas aspaceforlearning,inspirationandcontemplation.”

ShadesofGreenLegacyGardenwillinclude accessiblewalking pathsfor strollingthrough theexpanse,anchoredbysoothing waterfeatures. Dedicatedgardenareas from alabyrinth toareflexologywalkandachildren’svegetable gardenwillstirruminationandinciteapassion forplants. Pollinator gardens, demonstration beds fororganic garden andsustainable practices, andcountless otherverdurous niches promisea peaceful ambience,underscored with theopportunitytolearn,thriveand,as Hepburnsaid, “believe in tomorrow.”

Tosupportthegarden’screationandensure itslong-termcare,thefoundationhaslauncheda $10millioncapital campaign.Funds raised will gotowardbuildinguniquestructuresforindoor andoutdoor classesand smallcommunity events,creatingalushurbanoasis,andestablishinganendowment to support ongoingmaintenanceandprogramming. ★

Experience Luxury Living in the Heart of San Antonio

Welcome to 17419 Hillsedge,a breathtaking estate designed for comfort, style,and entertaining. With 3,741 sq. ft. of elegant living space,this home boasts soaring ceilings, dual living areas filled with natural light, and achef-inspiredkitchen featuring high-end finishes.

Nestledinone of San Antonio’s most desirable neighborhoods, Shavano Highlands, this residence offers not just ahome—but alifestyle.

Hospitalityatits Finest

La Cantera concierges create magic for guests

eforeGoogle,there wasthe hotel conciergetohelpguestswithdinnerrecommendations or creating memorableexperiences

While Google andAIare greatresources, theylackthepersonaltouchandrelationships thatcanmakeallthedifferenceinasimpledinnerreservationorsecuringitatyourpreferred time andfor thebesttable on theRiver Walk

“AndthatissomethingthatGooglecan’tget you. AI is notgoing to getyou,nope, even though AI will getyou very close,”saysJohn Ruiz,chief conciergeatLaCantera Resort and Spa.

Ruiz andconcierge Joan Perezare thedynamicduo at theresortwho elevateguest experiences, whetheritisworking with anervous groom-to-be on amarriageproposalor helpingguestsbook on-siteexperiences and off-site excursions

TheyaretwooffiveconciergesinSanAntoniowho wear thethe Golden Keys,a distinctionfromtheinternationalLesClefsd’OrConciergesorganization.

PerezdescribesRuizalsoasthegrandfather oftheSanAntonioConciergeAssociationthat wasfoundedin1982andincludes12participat-

ing hotels in thecity. Ruiz startedhis hospitalitycareer in1986 at Hilton Palaciodel Rioand movedupin1988whentheyopenedthe Concierge floor forVIPs. Perezstarted workingat theJWMarriottHill CountryResort& Spain 2012 afterretiringfromAmericanAirlines Both of them have served in leadership roles within SACA

“EversinceIgotmykeysin’97andbeingin theassociationand with ourlocals, it’s still a career mindsetofminethatI want more and moreLesClesD’Ormembers It’salwaysbeen my goal andvision,”Ruizsaid.

Thedistinction is thepinnacleofthe concierge fieldsimilartoreachingthe topcertification of anycareer track.

“There areguestsout there, thehigher-end guests,the well-seasoned guests that know whatthekeysmean,andtheyknowthatthey’re dealingwithsomebodythathas made this theirprofession,their career,and arepassionateabout what they’resaying,”Ruizsaid.

Perezfound that intimidating at first.

“I’llnever forget thefirst daysitting at thedeskafter Igot my keys andI said,‘Uh oh,peoplelike, will recognizemenow.’ I am,like, so scared,” Perezsaid.

She wasworried aboutmakingsomeone waitforananswerinsteadofknowinginformation offthe topofher head.Now sheknows that is notthe case.Rather, it’s importantto know thesources of whereand howtofinda solution.Havingher keys is acommitmentto keep goingdeeper

“You must carry on andbemoreelevated andmorespecializedandbeabletohandleany resolutionorscenariothatcomesup,”shesaid

Thesetwo ambassadors forthe city know thedeephistoryofSanAntonio.Theyvisitnew restaurants, followchefs throughout theircareersand buildrelationships with otherconciergestofostera community to providethe bestserviceinacitythatisknownforitshospitality.

They neverstoplearningand exploring, andtheyare excitedabout theopportunityto continue to grow with theresort’srecentnews that it will be joiningthe Hilton family

“LaCanteraResort&Spaisexpectedtojoin SigniabyHiltonasthebrand’sfirstTexaspropertyinOctoberandtransitiontoSigniabyHiltonLaCantera Resort &Spa.Welook forward to sharingmorenewssoon,” GeneralManager BenTurnersaidina statement. ★

NewBatch of UNESCO Chef Ambassadors

SanAntonio’s distinct culinaryheritage continues to thriveonworld stage

K, world: Getready fora fresh tasteofSan Antonio.

Thecity’sWorld Heritage Office recently announcedits 2025-2027classofchefambassadorstorepresent SanAntonio’s UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy designation. Chef ambassadors aretaskedwithcelebrating San Antonio'sdistinctfood andculture at festivals,fairs,workshops andeventsaround thecountry andoverseas.

Thenew crop represents awiderange of culinarytalentfromacrossthe city.Here’s who’sbeen named:

• AnaSofiaSadaCervanteswithTheCulinary InstituteofAmerica,San Antonio.

• Jason Dady,executive chef andowner of theJason Dady Restaurant Group.

• Geronimo Lopez, executivechefatHotelEmma

• Joel “Tatu” Herrera,who does double duty as co-owner of FolkloresCoffeeHouse andexecutive chef of TheDesertSpoon in Spring Branch

• LizzethMartinez,chefandownerofNaco MexicanGrayson

• StephannieBeyers, chef andowner of modern MexicanrestaurantEat Chingón.

SanAntonio wasnamed aUNESCOCreativeCityofGastronomyin2017. It’s arare

distinction, onethatSan AntoniosharesexclusivelywithTucson, Ariz., in theUnited States.UNESCOhas nameda totalof56CitiesofGastronomyaroundthe globe.

SanAntonio’s WorldHeritageOffice submitteda 7,300-word applicationtoearnthe City of Gastronomy honor. UNESCO grants thedesignationsbased on acity’sunique food culture, heritage andtradition.San Antonio’sdesignation pays tributetothe food traditionsbroughtherebypeoplefromavast confluenceofcultures,includingIndigenous people,Spaniards,CanaryIslanders,Mexicans,Germans,AfricansandAsians,inawave of migrationthat’sspannedmorethan 13,000 years.

Thelatestbatch of chefsquickly took to social mediatoexpress gratitudefor the honor.

“Whatanamazing honortobea part of theSan AntonioUNESCOCreativeCityOf Gastronomy andthe trulyremarkablelineup ofChefAmbassadorstocontinuetocarrythe torchofour food cultureforward,” Dady said in aFacebook post.“I’msohonored to be a partofthisamazinggroupandorganization.”

“It’sa true honortobepartofa project thatcelebratesourculture,ourcommunity, andthe poweroffood to bringpeopletogether,” Beyers said on theEat Chingón

Facebook page.“Thankyou forbelieving in me andwhatI standfor —Let’s make San Antonioproud!”

PresidentDonaldTrump’s administration announcedplans to once againwithdraw theU.S.fromUNESCO, effectiveDec 31,2026. Themovedid notcomeasa surprise. Trumpmadethe same decision in 2017 —a move laterreversedbythe Biden administration

Colleen Swain, director of thecity’s WorldHeritageOffice,which oversees the UNESCO designations,saidthe withdrawal will notimpactthe city's UNESCO designations.

“The City of SanAntonio will continue its work with thecommunity andour partners ontheworkplanandtopromoteourcultural heritage,local gastronomy andvibrant culinary industry,” Swainsaidina text message SanAntonio hasthe distinct honorof notone buttwo UNESCO designations.The city’s five Spanishcolonialmissions, most famously includingthe Alamo, alongwith MissionsSan José,San Juan,Concepción andEspada, were nameda UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015

Themissionsformthe lone WorldHeritage Site in Texasand oneofonly26inthe country. ★

BY EDMUND TIJERINA

EA T+ DR INK

Shootingfor aStar

till baskinginthe glow of Michelin recognition,theteamatSignaturerestaurantisalready lookingtotakethe next step

“Justgetting arecommendationand beinginvolvedintheMichelinguidewassomethingInever imagined untilitactually happened,”saidexecutivechefJohnCarpenter.“Nowthatit’sthere,obviouslythe next step is us pushingforward and achievinga star.”

It’s allthe more impressive consideringthat therestaurantfacedwhatcouldhavebeenanexistentialcrisisthree yearsago.Whenitfirst opened, Signaturetoutedits “South Texasmeets thesouth of France”inspiration from culinaryiconAndrew Weissman,whose accomplishments includes four JamesBeardfinalistappearances,alongwithraves fromtheNewYorkTimesandGourmetmagazine.

Over theyears,I wroteglowingly abouthis restaurantsand celebrated my ownengagementatLe Rêve,his contemporary French restaurant.

After asmooth transition of chefs andaMichelin nod, Signature aims even higher

When Weissman andLaCantera Resort and Spapartedwaysin2022, Ican honestlysay Ihad doubts.Followingalegendisnevereasy—rememberthe yearsafter Mack Brownleftthe University of Texas?

Fortunately, thetransitionfromWeissman to Carpenterflowedsmoothly.ThinkofBrettFavreto AaronRodgers,fromone championship winner to another.

Carpenter, whohas an impressive résumé of hisown,started at Signature underWeissman before stepping up to lead thekitchen,keptmuchof what made therestaurantspecial andaddedhis owntouches

Now, theregularly changing menu showcases Carpenter’stouch beautifully.A delightfultender anddeeplyflavoredoctopus,slowcooked and lightlycharred, included apairofcomfortingaracini,black from squidink,witha generous smear ofredpeppercoulisanddollopsofbrightromesco that tied theelementstogether.

Thevenison tenderloin arrivesata perfect medium-rare, served with acrisp,sophisticated potato pavé anda cherry justhatelevated theentirecompositionfarbeyondatypicalred meat andpotatopairing.

Yourarelythink of beef tartareasa pretty dish,but Carpenter’steamrendereda truly pretty version. Toppedwithdollops of bone marrowaioli, miniatureherbs andsunchoke chips,itbrilliantlyplayedwiththeaccompanyinghouse-madefocacciaslices.

Carpenterreally showsoff hiscreativityin theintermezzosand amuseboucheofferings. Onepalatecleanserabsolutelyrockedme— a seeminglysimplescoop of watermelon iceincludedanherbaceousundertoneofkaffirlime with abit of coconutwater anda hint of spice from ajalapeñoinfusion. So much complexity in aseeminglysimplebite.

Some traditions,thankfully,remainuntouched. Thosewarm, yeasty rolls served with fancybuttertoppedwithonion ash? They’re stillhere,andconnecttoday’sSignaturetothe daysofLeRêveinthelate’90sandearly2000s

“They’re great. They’reconsistent,”Carpenter said.“Youknowit’ssomething that we just won’tchange.”

Carpenter’s journeytothismoment came over yearsofhardwork. TheMacArthur High School graduate,bornonanAir ForcebaseinGermany andtrained at St Philip’s College,started on thecorporate side at OutbackSteakhousebeforegravitatingtowardindependent restaurants— Biga on theBanks,Lükeand,later,leading the ambitioussmallerkitchensatTostand Beat Street Bistro.Heimpressedmethen. His time at theCulinaryInstitute of America’s Naorestaurantand Botika,working alongside chef Geronimo López, deepened hisunderstandingofLatin American flavorsand techniques that nowinformhis dishes

Now,heandhisteamaremanagingtheever-growing reservationlistand pushingtoget that firstMichelin star.

“We’re moving forwardina positive direction,andIjustfeellikewe’regoingforward,”he said.“I’mnotobsessingover,youknow,getting astar, or anyofthat, butwekeep workingand workingandworkingandproducingatthelevel whereweare,it’sonlynatural that allthose things follow.” ★

Editor’s Note: The2025MichelinGuide TexasCeremonywillbeOct.28inHouston.

ANew Season

agood game of bringing people together

Located just stepsfromthe Alamodome,one of SanAntonio’s newest sports bars spentthe summergearingupforanewseason.NottheSpurs.NottheCowboys.Notthe Astros “LoveIslandUSA.”

WelcometoAtlee’sRally,anundeniable sports bardeckedout in themostrecent SpursCityEdition colors.The ceiling is paintedlikea basketball courtinthose same shades.The 40-foot bariscladin wainscotingsubtlyevoking thehashmarks of afootball field.

Butwhenthere wasnogametoair on the 27-foot videowallbehindthe bar, owners

AndyPalaciosandJamesSantosgotcreative andstarted hostingwatch partiesfor the dating realityshow.

“Wedidn'texpectthebartoevolveinthat manner, butitwas well received,” Palacios said.“Alot of womencameinwho'venever beenherebeforeandreallylovedthedesign, thelayoutand thefeel of thebar,which is what we want.Not just guys to come in,but anyone to come in andfeel comfortable. Whetherit'sguys, girls’ night, sports on,no sports on,whateveritmay be,justcomingto have agood time.”

Atlee’sRally postsupatthe corner of Heiman Street andHoefgrenAvenueinhistoricSt.PaulSquaredirectlyacrossfromlive

musicvenue TheEspee andthe alwayspumping1902Nightclub in thegorgeously renovatedSunsetStation rail depot.

Thespotisdeeply rooted in SanAntonio history. Thebar is namedfor famedarchitect AtleeB.Ayers,who lived in thecityand served as statearchitect of Texasinthe early 20thcentury.Ayershadanoutsizeimpacton SanAntonio'sskylineasthearchitectbehind theprominent TowerLifeBuilding. He helpeddesignSt.PaulSquare,theMcNayArt Museum andmanyprominent privateresidences across thecity.

AndAtlee’shas well-establishedbar veteransbehindthe stick. Palacios is theowner of theindustryfavoriteTony’sSiesta, and

Santos wasa Pearlstaple, from theopening days of HotelEmma to Blue Boxand,most recently,Sternewirth.Together,they’rehelpingreinventwhata sports barcan be Arecentmenu— allrealglassware, no plasticcups—includedcocktails suchasThe SoccerMommadewithgin,Aperol,Prosecco andwhite grapejuice.The Sandlot-inspired WendyPepinocornmarries vodkawithfresh cucumber andlimejuice.The Babe (Ruth, thatis)wouldhavelovedTheGreatBambino, aconcoctionofbourbon,Benedictine and twotypes of bitters

Atlee’sRallyhaspaidunusualattentionto detail. There’sa pursehook underthe barat everyother stool.There areatleast four pow-

er outlets, allUSB-inclusive,atevery booth forphone charging andlaptopjuice.The restroomsare extraordinarily clean. Youcan still grab aLoneStartallboy at arighteous price, andhappy hour runs from 4-9p.m everyweekday with $7 mixeddrinks.

“San Antoniodeservesspots whereyou candress up,feel good,look good,and go watcha game andthengoout somewhere nice fordinnerbeforeorafter,” Palacios said “I love dive bars as much as thenextand sportsbarsasmuchasthenextperson,butto enjoyareallygoodcocktailwithfriendswhile watchingthegame,Ifeelthat’ssomethingwe needed here.And hopefully this is acatalyst forother bars to followsuit. ★

Celebrate TexasWineMonth

ctober is TexasWineMonth anda greatmonthtoexploretheHillCountry.Harvestiswrappingup,theweather is coolingoff, andnew events and wine resourcesoffera reason to explore.

OTheTexas Hill CountryWineriesAssociation haspartneredwithWineFollyforadigitalwineregionguideforbeginners.Itprovidesanoverviewof themorethan100 wineries in aregionthatisin ourbackyardand oneofthe most visitedinthe United States

“The goal is to usethissitefor people to learn more aboutthe region in depthand usethe wineriesand travel pagestocomesee us,” Executive Director January Wiesesaid.

Theguide canbefound at texashillcountry guides.winefolly.com andonthe TexasHill CountryWinerieswebsite,texashillcountry wineries.org,whereitislinkedtoindividualwinerypages fora deeper dive into theirfeatured grapevarieties andwines

Thewines page includes agraphic that shows

an overview of thegrape varietiesinTexas Hill Countrywines by popularity —Mourvedre,Tempranillo,CabernetSauvignon,Sangiovese, Tannat andMalbecleadthe pack

Thetravelpagedividestheregion,andfeatures differentroutesandkeytowns.PairthatwithaTexas Wine MonthPassporttoplanyourown adventure.Thepassportallowsyoutovisituptofourwineriesa day, andincludescomplimentary tastings anddiscounts on wine purchases.

Alsonewthisyear,HillCountryWineCampon Oct.12isafulldayofworkshopsontastings,pairing suggestions andmore.

Fredericksburg Food &WineFestival, Oct. 2126,closesout themonth with aweeklong showcase of TexasHill Countrytalent, includingOpeningNight with WilliamChris Vineyardsatthe Albert Hotel, aTexas BlackTie Barbecue at Becker Vineyards, aTexas Wine BarrelAuction at Slate Theory Winery,a GrandTasting at Marktplatz and TheWaterfrontBrunchatFischer&WieserFarmstand. Checkthe websitefor more details. ★

TEXAS WINE MONTH PASSPORT

Amonthlong, self-guided way to discover awardwinningTexas wines with complimentary tastings, exclusive discounts and a 15%discount on purchases of three bottles or more at 45-plus wineries.

Date: Oct. 1–31

Tickets: $85 individual/ $120couple; $5 from each ticket supports the Texas Hill Country Wine Scholarship Fund. Info: texashillcountry wineries.org

HILL COUNTRY WINE CAMP

Ahands-on,expert-led day for wine lovers to learn about grape growing, winemakingand bold Texas food pairings features asparkling wine and oyster pairing, buildyour-own charcuterie workshop and asignature varietal tasting.

Date: 9a.m.-5 p.m. Oct. 12 at Texas WineCollective Tickets: $200 (includes breakfast, lunch, happy hour, wines and education) Info: texashillcountry wineries.org

FREDERICKSBURG FOOD &WINE FESTIVAL

This weeklong celebration includesnew events and badge options. Aportion of proceeds supports the Hill Country Hospitality Relief Fund, helpinglocal hospitality workers recover after July Fourth floods.

Date: Oct. 21-26

Info: fbgfoodandwine.com

TH EG OOD LIFE

ImmerseYourself in theMagic of Sedona

Relaxation, respite and stunning red rock vistas await

YDIRECT FLIGHTFROM SANANTONIO to Phoenix’sSky Harbor International Airportwas ashort twohourjourney.BythetimeIarrived at my finaldestination,however,I felt as far away as Mars Latethissummer,ItookmyfirsttriptoSedona,120 milesnorth of Arizona’scapital.AftermeetingmydriveratthePhoenixairport,I watchedasthe hustle andbustleofcitylife

soongavewaytocacti-dottedvistas,steepcanyonwalls,thick pine forestsand red-rock formationsthatweregranderinpersonthanany postcard or travel advertisementI’veseen.

My late afternoon arrivalmeant Ihad a front rowseattothe spectacularlight show thathappenshereeverydawnanddusk,asthe shifting sundancesontoweringrockformationswithnicknamessuchastheCourthouse Butte andBellRock. Best yet, arainshower

preceded me,and as Irolleddownthe car windows, adreamlikefragrance —evergreen, earthy andsweet —camerushing in “Whenitrains here,it’slikenature’sperfume,”mydriversaidashewaxedpoeticabout thecreosoteplantsthatsecrete this distinct high desert scent.

Thesensory feastcontinued on arrivalat Ambiente,the firstLandscape HotelinNorth America,whereIcheckedinfora48-hoursolo sojourn. The3-acreproperty, whichispart oftheprestigiousLeadingHotelsoftheWorld programandtheonly2-MichelinKeyhotelin

Arizona, is also thesoleadults-only sanctuary in Sedona.Since it opened in 2023,ithas become arefugefor couples, solo travelers, and seekersofall kindslookingtorefueland recharge in ascenichideaway.

Unlikeother luxury accommodationsin thearea, thereare just 40 freestandingguest roomsatAmbiente, designed as cubeshaped privateatriums hand-placedonsteel pierstooptimizeviewsandminimizeimpact on theland. Encasedincharcoal-colored metaland floor-to-ceilingbronzed glass, the contemporaryspacescamouflageintothe

surrounding geography, while reflecting its striking beauty

Walkingintomine, Ifeltmyblood pressuredropasItookinthecalming,minimalist interiors. Afterperusingthe suite— with its well-stockedminibar andcomplimentary snacks,its drop-downtelevisionand enormous glassshower— Isankintothe chocolate-colored velvet sectionalwithits seaof earth-tonedpillowsandfurrythrowblankets

Mostspectacularweretheviews.With180degrees of glass, theatriums celebratethe world-renowned landscapeand framethe Coconino National Forest to thenorth,and theSteamboat,Chimney andCoffeePot monoliths to theeastand south.

As thesun setonmytravelday,I drew a bath in theoversizesoaking tuband then set outtoexplore.Aswithother LandscapeHotels,conservationand preservation arecentraltothisproperty,whichisfamily-operated by twosisters,JenniferMay andColleen TeBrake, alongwiththeir father,Michael Stevenson.Stephen Thompson ofArchitect Studioand ASUL Architects designed Ambiente tobethecity’sleadingexampleofsustainable tourismand innovative hoteldesign, while thelandscape architects focusedonpreservingthe existing forest,savingnativetrees and reactivatingtheancientwaterwaysthatripple across thegrounds

Laterthatevening,I made my waytodinneratForty1. Despitebeing thesoledining venueonproperty, themodernAmerican menu changesfrommorning to night, and focusesonseasonalorganic ingredients, keepingeverymealfeelingfreshanddecidedly different from thelast.

Over an ice-cold martini, Isampled atenderelk tataki marinatedina ginger sesame sauce, followedbya creamy bowl of cacioe pepe folded with wild mushroomsand roast chickenwithleek velouté. Thecuisine waselevated,flavorful andbeautifully plated,and thewarm,attentiveservicemademefeelasifI were dining in afriend’shome.

Walkingbeneath thestars,I returned to my room,the lightsnow dimmedand the long dark curtains drawn, before falling asleep beneatha wonderland of silkysheets andsoftwhite down.The next morning, with thepushofa button, themotorized drapes opened around me,likeshowcurtainsona stage. Mesmerized by theview, Idecided to have room serviceinlieuofa full restaurant breakfast.

Ambiente hasnofitness facilityon-site, whichisunderstandablegiven Sedona’s plethora of outdoor adventures,including hundreds of milesofhikingand biking trails Foramateur hikers likeme, theAdobe Jack Trailhead, accesseddirectlyfromthe property,was agreat placetostart

As Ifollowedthe red, iron-oxide rich pathsand woundthrough theterrain’s naturalcontours,shallowwashesandleafyforests, Icouldn’thelpbut picturemyselfasDorothy Gale —onlymymythicalbrick road wasneitheryellownorbrick,andhere,Ozwasamagnificent land of geological buttestellingtales

asoldastime. Atroughly3milesroundtrip,I sawnoshortageofnatural splendors, from thegrandvistasforwhichSedonaisknownto thehumblebeautyandpeelingbarkofapointleafmanzanita

On variousoccasions, Istooped to marvel at theloosered rocksonmypath, shimmeringlikerusty rubies in thesun.Indeed,there issomethingaboutthelandherethatfeelsinnately glittery,mysticand even vibrational. Sedona’s renowned redrockenvironsare consideredanenergy-chargedvortex,leaving many visitors feelingrecharged,upliftedand sometimesevenhealed. Whetheryou believe in thesethingsornot,Sedona’shumbling grandeur is undisputable

Aftera sweat-fueled trek,I came back to thehotelhot,hungryandreadytocooldown Thelagoon-shapedpoolprovedaprimeplace to post up andrefuel. Here,lunch andpoolside fare is prepared from aretro Airstream nicknamedThe Drifter. Following aquick

swim anda tuna poke bowl with asideof fresh-made guacamole, Ichecked in at the Velvet Spafor an afternoon of pampering.

Everything aboutAmbientefeelsintentionalandintimate,includingitsthree-room spa. Despiteits smallsize, however, Velvet is a mecca forwellnessand well-being, with a menu of massages, body therapies, couples ritualsand customized facialsthatisworthy of multiple visits.I partook in thesignature 90-minuteAcuGlow Facial,a super-charged sculptingand healingservice that included guasha,cupping,LED-light therapyand a lymphaticdrainagemassage.Afterward,I enteredVelvet’suniqueDarkSkyLounge,where abed equippedwithInHarmony Technology usedvibrationalsoundandmusictodelivera full-body meditative experience that Istill thinkabout now, weekslater

As thesun setona perfectday,I returned todinneratForty1andperusedthecraftcocktail menu,withchoices likeThe Gamble lur-

Spatreatment roomwhere massages, bodytherapies,couplesrituals andcustomized facials await

ingwithitsshishito-infusedmezcal,lime,watermelon juiceand chile orange salt rim. I feastedona freshpeach andprosciutto salad followedbythe CopperState FiletMignon with chorizoand bearnaisebeforecapping

offthe eveningonmyatrium’sprivate rooftop, with itscozyfireplace andplush daybed Thestarryeveningshereareaspectacleof theirown,thankstothe city’s dark skyordinance. In peak seasonssuchasfall, thehotel

offers complimentary sunriseand sunset yoga sessions,inaddition to guided stargazing ledbylocal astronomers.

Though my trip wasbrief,I managedto squeezeinsomeoff-siteexplorationinoneof theproperty’sLC500 Lexusconvertibles. Ambienteisoneofjust20destinationsinthe United States that’s partneredwithLexus, andthe sole property in Arizona, giving guests exclusiveaccess to theirvehicles throughout theirstay. On my last day, Itook thecar to theChapelofthe Holy Cross, a10minutedrivefromthehotel.Themoderndesign,which wasinspiredbythe Empire State Buildingand completedinthe mid-1950s, beckonspilgrims from around theworld Back in thevalley, Istoppedintothe charmingTlaquepaque Arts &Shopping Village, wherea labyrinthofart galleries,stores, coffeeshops andelegant restaurantslikeRene awaitina picturesquehamletsetting Ultimately,mydrivemademerealizehow much more therewas to seeand do,thistrip buta smallwindowintothe vast beauty and sacred nature of this sliver of theAmerican Southwest. Still, forvisitorslikemewho come here solely focusedondisconnecting andre-centering, Ambiente maybethe best homebasetodoit.AsIreturnedtothePhoenixairport,I left Sedona’s cathedralofred rock in my rearview,thankfulfor thememories andthe quiet, grounded feelingI carried with me back home ★

Step Inside the Tree House Project

Rustic sophistication meets modern luxury in Dominion dream home

alkintothe Dominion home that interiordesignerCarlaRoyderput hercreativestampon,andyouimmediatelyseewhyshereferstothis astheTreeHouseProject.Floor-to-ceilingwindows in severalroomsbring theoutdoorsin, showcasingtheoaktreesthatfilltheviewswith abig hugfromMotherNature.

Youenter througha tall, wood missionstylefront door —flanked by gaslanterns —thatsetsthe stagefor this property, whichwas part of theDominionLuxury Home Tour this year.ThisSanta Barbara-style home with atransitionalcontemporarydesignhasplentyofSanAntonioflourishes— limestone accent walls in severalrooms, distressedleathersand nubby linens, alongwithwhite stucco exterior walls,a tile roof andexposedbeamceilings.

Royder,founder andowner of Carla RoyderDesigns&Co.,hasworkedwithcustombuilder JimBoles,owner of JimBoles Custom Homes, formorethan20years.Their collaboration begins before blueprints arefinishedfor custom home clients.

AsthehomewasbeingframedonCliffLine DriveinThe Bluffatthe Dominion,Royder walkedthepropertyona40-footbluffandtold

Boles, “It’slikea tree houseout of everywindow. We’reinthe treetops.”

Royderbeginsherdesignprocesswithaclientquestionnaire, asking what familiesdoon Fridaynights,whatcolorsappearintheirclosetsthe most andwhether they love or hate prints,among otherthings.

“There’s alot of psychology in what Ido,” said Royder in thesunny flex spacethatshe calls thesunroom of theDominionhome.

There’sa lot of psychologyinwhatIdo. …Agood designer is listeningand understandingwhatthe client is tryingtoget to.

Carla Royder, interiordesigner

‘‘ ’’

“A good designer is listening andunderstandingwhatthe client is trying to getto,”she said

Forthistwo-story spec home filled with organic, rustic sophistication that wasone of sixinthe Dominion Luxury Home Tour ranginginprice from $2.5 to $5 million, sheimagineda potential ownerbeingaSoutherngentlemanwith daughtersand racehorses.

Butthis$3.35 million, four-bedroom home with 5,228 square feet of livingspace wouldalsoappeal to anyone wholoves a chef’skitchenwithabutler’spantryandexamples of fine craftsmanshipinevery room.It’s listedbyTamaraStrait,realtoratStraitLuxury In thekitchen,a 25-foot cupola risesabove theisland, with acustomwoodinlay ceiling treatmentandfourhighwindowsthatflood

thespace with naturallight.A custom hood of stainlesssteel andbrass sits over thegas stove andhand-paintedTabarka tile.Cabinetsare in threecolors—atealonthelowers,beigeonthe uppersandanaturalwhiteoakfinishonatower of cabinets

Thediningspaceisnexttoalimestonewall with afive-basket statementchandelier. The greatroom hasa 5-foot-widefireplace with a

limestonemanteland an oversizedround chandelier, with viewsofthe privatepatio and itsoutdoor kitchen, dining table, livingarea andheatedpool

Finely curatedspacesthroughoutthe home stickwithyou long afteryou’veleft, like themudroom drop zone just inside theentrancefromthegarage.Ithasdarkcabinetsand afun cranewallpaper from Mind theGap in

Transylvania in shades of creamy khaki, charcoal andmandarinorange.

Thebathroom in themainbedroom hasa wall of windowswitha view from theshower andtub outtoa landscaped andlighted courtyard,which serves as anight-light afterdark.

Bolessaidheincludedsucha featurein hisownhomethreeyearsagoandimproved upon it in this home designed by architect

GustavoArredondo.

“I getcarried away with lighting,”Boles said.Two of hisfavoritespacesinthe home arethe toweroverthe kitchenislandand the main bath with awallofwindows next to the courtyard. He said hisdecisions in custom homesare basedon“stewardship, notprice.” He andRoyderinspire each othertodotheir best work,hesaid, adding that he workswell

with “strongwomen,” like Carlaand her nine-woman staff.

“Itfeelslikea resort,” he said of thebathroom with vaultedceilings andlighted beams. He putseveral gaslanternsonthe frontofthe home,bigfloatingceilingbeamsinatick-tacktoepattern lighted from aboveinthe great room,andindirectlightingthroughout.Royder praiseshis attentiontoevery detail andap-

preciation forquality.

“Carla isn’tone of thosedesigners who takesher styleand pushes it on people.She listens andaskspeopleabout theirlifeexperiencesand howtheylive,”Boles said.He’s seenherdoawiderangeofdesignstyles.You cansee that rangeonher website portfolio page,rangingfromthe“missionreimagined” in this Dominion home to “modernmis-

chief” in aNew Braunfelshome. RoydersaidthateventhoughBoles’homes have huge soaringceilings,rooms feel warm andcozy.

Take theambienceinthe hallway between this home’s foyerand main bedroom

Thewhite oakwide-plankfloorsthere have brassinlays,whichcoordinatewiththebrass Morocco-inspiredlightfixturesbetweenthe lightedbeams on theceiling. Thehallway is aworkofart.

Royder said twoofher favorite spaces are the“lightandairy”sunroomnexttothedining spaceand themainbedroom with dark green grasscloth on thewalls.The dark room makes thecolorsofthe trees outsidethe wall of windows pop.

“Itjustmakes me want to go in thereand read abook,” shesaidonone of her“Trustin Design”videosfeaturing Bolesonher Instagram page.“It’s likea bighug on arainy day.”

Royder describesherself as afourth-gener-

ationcreative. Hermotherisa notedceramicistandeducatorwholikedtoupholsterwalls at home andpaint murals.She taught Royder howtosew,paint,set alovelytable andmore. They took aceramicsclass together at the SouthwestCampusfor theUniversityofTexas at SanAntonio this spring,enjoyingthe creativetimetogether. Boyersaidshe dreams of having alicensedlineofpillows andrugsand wantstocreateart that people want to collect

“Ifit’sbeautifulanditmakesyouhappy,you

should surroundyourselfwithit,” said the ChurchillHighSchoolgraduateandmotherof twowhowasraisedinSanAntonio.“Evenyour kitchentowelsshouldbebeautiful.”

Herfavoritekindofdesignprojectsare high-end vacation or second homes, shesaid. They oftenhavea themeand canget more whimsical, shesaid, mentioning ahomeshe designed in CinnamonShore in Port Aransas lastyear.Inthatkindofproject,youcanhanga canoefromthe ceiling, shesaid.

Amongher high-profile clientsare several NBAplayers.She’s designed sevenhomes in thepastdecadeforGeorgeHill,whoplayedfor theSpurs from 2008-2011, anddesignedfive homesforNBAAll-StarBradleyBealoftheLos AngelesClippers

Herclientstrust herand spread theword abouther work.Thattrust is important, she said.Communicatingwithphotosisalsohelpful,becausewordslike“modern”canmeandifferent things.Prospective clientsshouldask

forreferencesandportfoliosshowingthework that interior designershavedone.

“Ifyou love what youdo, treatpeopleright andyou’rehonest, you’ll do well,”Roydersaid.

Royder’s favorite part of theprocess is the reveal

“Ifthe client doesn’tget tearsintheir eyes, wehaven’tdoneourjob,”shesaid.It’sanadrenalinerushtosee afamily so happy aboutthe resultsofher work,she added.

“Lifeistoo shorttoliveinuglyhouses.” ★

TAKE AHIKE ON 255 MILES OF TRAILS

Wildlife, history andadventureawait

BYRICHARD A. MARINI

You wouldcover 255milesifyou walked allthe trails in SanAntonio’s city parksand thosealong theHoward W. Peak Greenway TrailSystem. At an averagespeed of 3milesper hour,it wouldtakealmosta full monthofnonstop walking to complete theentirecircuit.But there’dbeplenty to seealong theway.Here’sa guidetoboththe wildlifeand thehistoricsites youmight come across on your journey, plus informationabout various“friendsof” volunteer groups that do the good work of protecting andpromoting thesetrails forall to enjoy.

WILDLIFE

You’re unlikelytoencounter anytruly dangerousanimals lions,tigersorbears —while hiking trails in theSan Antonioarea. Most of thewildlife you’ll seeisprobablymoreafraidofyou,orat leasthabituatedtohumans, than youshouldbetothem.

Buttakingsomebasic precautionscan protectyou andwhatever animalsyou mightrun across. Basic, commonsense precautions remain applicable,including:

• Don’twanderoff thetrail.

• Wear visibleclothing.

• Make noisesoyou don’tstartle an animal with your presence.

• Don’tapproach or trytopet or feed awild animal.Evenapparentlydocile animals, such as deer,can getaggressiveiftheythink they or theiroffspringare in danger.Better: Bringa pair of binoculars while hiking so youcan observethe animalsfromafar.

“You also need to payattentiontoyoursurroundings,”saidJudit Green,anurban wildlifebiologist with theTexas Parks& Wildlife Department.“Idon’t know howmanytimes I’ve seen people hiking, even on busy roads, with theireyesglued to theirphone.”

Here aresomeofthe animalsyou mightsee on area trails.

Predators

Fox: Thesesmall, catlikeanimals have acclimated to urbanareas and arenot uncommon. They’renocturnal,althoughtheydoappear during theday,especially at dawn or dusk

Coyote: Grayishbrown,witha long snoutand uprightears, coyotes areoften mistaken forlarge dogs.Inurban areastheypreferwooded patchesand shrubbery.While coyote attacksonhumansare rare, they canposea threat to childrenand smallanimals,soifyou’re walkingwitha pet, keep it leashedand closetoyou

Snakes

Thedangerfromsnakesisthatyou’llrarelysee them in advanceand couldinadvertently threaten or step on them.Mostsnakesare harmless, buthereare some venomous ones that demand caution: Coralsnake: Thesehavealternating bandsofred,black andyellow or white, with theyelloworwhite bandstouchingthe redbands This rhymecan help youremember: “Red touching yellow, kill a fellow; redtouchingblack,venom lack.” Thegoodnewsisthey’re typically notaggressive andrarelybiteunlessprovoked.

Cottonmouth: Also knownaswater moccasins becausetheylivein creek ways,cottonmouthsare dark in color, with aheavy body anda broadhead. Notgenerally aggressive,their venomispotent, and bitescan be serious, even deadly,ifnot treatedpromptly.

Expect adeersighting —or several— on parktrails.

Copperhead: This snakeiseasily identified by itstriangularheadand hourglass-shaped dark-brown or reddish-brown crossbands In most years, copperheads bite more peoplethanany othertypeofsnake,although theirvenom is notverypotent.

Rattlesnake: Arattlesnake is readily identifiable by thesegmented structureatthe end of itstailthatgives this snakeits name,as well as thedistinctbuzzing or hissing it makeswhenitfeelsthreatened. Rattlerscan be foundinparks,along hiking trails andin greenbelts, andprefersheltered spotssuch as wood andbrush piles, androcky areas.

Other common wildlife

Deer: Perhapsthe friendliest creature on the trails,deerhavebecomeinuredtohaving humans in theirdomain, so they’rethe largestanimals oneislikelytocomeacross while hiking.Bevigilant during thefall rutting season,however.And should adoe or buck runacrossyourpath, stop andstand still fora fewmoments,because severalmore arelikelytofollow.

Feralhog: Thebaneoffarmers andranchers, thesehogsliveinevery corner of Texas. They canbeaggressive,especially sows with theiryoung,sokeep your distance.Ifchallenged,yellloudlyand make yourself appear bigger— they should go on theirway Raccoon,possumand skunk: Thesesmaller guys areusually more active at night, so during theday,you’relikelytosee only signsthey’ve been around —scat, spoor,

tracks andthe like. If hiking with kids, brushuponyouridentificationskills so you cantellthemwhich animal they just missed.

HIDDEN HISTORY

Comanche Lookout Tower

Comanche LookoutPark, 15551Nacogdoches Road

This 1,340-foot-highpeakwas aprominent area landmark forIndigenouspeoples andsettlersalike. Today, trails leadingto thetop reward hikers with views of sprawlingsuburbiaand theopportunitytoexplore themedieval-styleLookoutTower.Constructed by Col. Edward Coppock,who purchasedthe land in 1923,the tower was intended to be part of ahand-built castle, andserve as ahay andgrain barn.Unfortunately, Coppock died in 1948 andthe projectwas abandoned.

Dinosaur tracks (and more)

Government Canyon StateNatural Area, 12861GalmRoad

Walk alongside110-million-year-old tracks thoughttohavebeen made by theropods or sauropods. With more than 200 footprints,thisisone of thefew dinosaur tracksites in Texasnot locked away on privateland. Alongthe same JoeJohnston trail, hikers will also come upon an

8,000-year-old rock midden(amound of householdwaste)and the140-year-old ZizelmannHouse,built by some of the area’s earliest German settlers.

Espada Dam, Acequia andAqueduct

Mission Reach, near 9045 Espada Road

Construction of this complexsystem beganshortly afterEspadaMission was relocatedherefromEastTexas in 1731.The threestructuresoperatedasa complex irrigation system,without whichthe mission couldnot have survived.The stillfunctioningdam raises theSan Antonio Riveruntil waterflows into thehand-dug acequias,which carried it to thesurroundingfields. Most dramatically,the gracefully curved aqueduct still carries waterover Six-Mile Creek

Friedrich Wilderness Park Windmill

FriedrichWildernessParkonthe Water Trailnot farfromthe park’s main entrance

Earlyfarmers andranchersusedwindmills to pump groundwatertothe surface, allowing them to raiselivestock andcultivate cropswellbeyondrivers, creeks and othernaturally occurring bodies of water. This workingwindmill pumpswater from theTrinity Aquifer200 feet belowground. Waterinthe nearby cisternmakes this a good birdingspot, so long as thebirds are notscaredawaybyother hikers

Ignacio Perez RanchoJacal

Medina RiverGreenway, west of ApplewhiteRoad

Oneofonlyseven survivingjacalsin BexarCounty, this simple dwellingis thoughttohavebeen built sometime in the

late 1700saspartofa 20,000-acre cattle andsheep ranch. Protectedbya security fenceand visiblefromthe Greenwaytrail, thejacal is said to be oneofthe most significantSpanish colonial siteswithinthe city

Morningstar Boardwalk

Salado Creek Greenway, northofLadyBird JohnsonParktrailhead

Namedinhonor of SanAntonio native andArmyStaff Sgt. ChristopherMorningstar,who gave hislifefor hiscountry,the raised,3,400-foot boardwalkrunsalong the Salado Creekwetland area,sokeep an eye outfor deer andother wildlife. Thenorth endofthe boardwalkisdecorated with a sign commemoratingMorningstar,and an embeddedmosaicofred,white andblue ceramictilestoppedbya star

VoelckerHistoric Homestead

Phil Hardberger Park,1021VoelckerLane

Theone-timefarmstead that nowmakes up Hardberger park was, in the1800s,Max andMinnieVoelcker’sdairy farm.The restored portions of thehomestead include thedairy barn,the original 1870sstone houseand theantique windmill. Restoration continuesonthe dairybarn. The homesteadisopentothe public only duringsuchspecial events,suchasDairy Days in thefall; children’svegetable garden classes; andmonthly programs at theButterfly Learning Center

VFW Post 76

Museum Reach, 10 10th St

Foundedin1917byveteransofthe SpanishAmericanWar,thisisthe oldest VFW post in Texas. While thepostdoesthe usual VFWthings, it also operates thePost

Morningstar

Boardwalk

Canteen,anoutdoor patioonthe banksof theRiver Walk Museum Reach, wherethe public canenjoy adultbeverages while listeningtomusic andtakinginthe passing scene. Regularweekly events includeThursday nightkaraoke,FridayDJparties andlive bandsSaturdaynights. Canteen revenues go to support thepost, localveteransand the surrounding community

VOLUNTEER TO HELP

In an ageoflimited resources, when local governmentsare oftenunabletoproperly maintain hiking trails,not to mentionother park amenities, so-called“Friendsof” groups have become increasingly importanttothe health andwell-beingofareagreenspaces

Thesenonprofit volunteer groups provide essentialsupport via“elbowgrease” effortssuchastrail maintenanceand habitat restoration, as wellasfundraising andadvocacy.Inother words, they help “fill the gaps,” completing tasksparkagenciesare oftenunabletoaccomplishalone.

SanAntonio hasplentyof“Friendsof” groups andthey’re always lookingfor volunteers.

Onesuchgroup,the FriendsofSan AntonioNatural Areas(fosana.org), worksto protectand improveundeveloped natural areassuchasFriedrich Wilderness Park, accordingtoDayna Cramer,the organization’s president.

“Wehelpwithnature-basededucation andhelppeopleconnect with nature,” she said.“We raisefunds,bring in volunteers andhelprestore andrepairfacilities.”

Like similargroups, SANA is always in need of newvolunteer members; information on howtoget involved is containedon theorganization’swebsite

Here is more informationabout other “Friends of”groups, includinghow they describe themselves:

Brackenridge ParkConservancy: “Established… to raisefunds to preserve andenhancethe park’s natural, historic,educational,and recreational resourcesfor current andfuturegenerations.” brackenridge park.org

FriendsofGovernmentCanyon: “Weare lovers of theoutdoorswithone common mission:protectingand preserving the NaturalArea.” friendsofgovernmentcanyon. org

FriendsofMcAllister: “Anall-volunteer nonprofitorganizationworking forthe benefitofMcAllisterParkand itsvisitors.” mcallisterpark.org

Phil Hardberger ParkConservancy: “This …nonprofit organization supportsall aspectsofthe park,fromplanning activities to fundraising.” philhardbergerpark.org

SanAntonio Parks Foundation: “A nonprofit organization whosemission is to support andenhance parksinSan Antonio andBexar County.” saparks.org ★

‘BEAUTIFUL’ SANPEDRO CREEK CULTURE PARK READY TO WOW

Public art mixes with native plants, waterfalls, wildlife

BY DEBORAH MARTIN

Morethana decade ago, artist Diana Kersey lived closetoSan PedroCreek, oftenwalking alongsideitonher way to work.

Shewasn’tdrawn to thecreek becauseitwas apleasantspot— “Itwas anasty oldditch,” she said —but it wasthe fastestroute to herjob as a ceramictechatthe SouthwestSchoolofArt (now theUniversityofTexas at SanAntonio’s Southwestcampus)

Nowwhenshe visits that area,it’sbecause shewants to be there. Theditch hasbeen transformed into theSan PedroCreek CulturePark, alinearparkdottedwithpublic artpieces, includingseveral craftedbyKersey.

“Tosee howmuchithas transformed, and howbeautiful it is,isreally exciting,” shesaid.

Paving the way

Thetransformationwas agradual process.

In about2012, leadership in BexarCounty

andatthe SanAntonio RiverAuthority startedtalking aboutwaystodealwithrecurring floodingissues in thearea.

“While that wasthe main purposeofthe projecttokindofget it startedand getit funded,the leadership at thetimereally wanted to envision amulti-benefit piecethat couldbemorethanjustanupgradedconcrete ditch,”saidAmy Zola,who wasthe project managerduringthe park’s construction phase. “Sothatwas theideabehindthe project.”

Construction took abouta decade.The finalsegment,stretchingfromRubyCityto theApacheCreek Greenway, wascompleted in May.

What to expect

TheSan PedroCreek CultureParkisnow a peaceful placetostroll. (It’salsopossibletodo that virtually at spcculturepark.com.)Broad pavedpaths linethe creek.Interpretivepanels popuphereand there, giving snippets of informationabout theflora andfauna that dwellthere as well as insights into thecity’s historyand culture. Waterfalls canbefound alongthe route, andvisitorsalsocan wade in thewater at thePlaza de Fundación. (Side note:Thatisthe only placeinthe park where folksare permittedtointeractwiththe water with anything otherthantheir eyes andears.)

Herons frequently visit, as do ducksand

otherbirds.The smellofnativegrasseswafts throughthe air, anddragonfliesand damselfliesdartabout.Riots of wildflowersburst from planting beds andthe earth, andnearly 300shade trees providerespite during the hottest timesofthe year.There also areseveral spots, includingMustard Seed Plazaand theSalinas Boardwalk, that canberentedfor gatherings

Public artpieceslarge andsmall arewoven throughout,including murals,sculptures, tilework, poetry andinstallations. Nearly 70 bencheshavebeen installed, many of them adornedwithtilework by MichaelMenchaca andLeticia Huerta

“The waythe artwas used is very intentional,topullyou in andpullyou throughthe park,” Zola said.“It’s meanttoworktogether andpullyou down thecreek so that youfeel enticedtosee what’s around thenextcorner.”

Thefinal segmentincludespoetrybySan AntonioPoetLaureateEddie Vega.Hewrote threepiecesfor thepark, each of them etched into limestone.

Vega,who wasselectedfor theproject before he wasnamed poet laureate,sought inspirationonvisitstothe park during its construction.Healsoresearchedthe native plants andother aspectsofthe area so that he couldfoldthose details into thepoems, making them trulysitespecific.

“The otherthing Ireally wanted to do was to somehowwrite them in Spanglish, just to reflectthe culture, reflectour area,the way that people actually talk,” he said

Theworks aren’t designed to be experiencedpassively.

“The poemsare meanttobereadout loud,” he said.“Idon’t thinkthatyou really get theart of it if you’re just staringatit.”

Oneofthe last pieces of public arttobe completedwas NewYork-basedartistMark Reigelman’s“FallingWater,” agiant hand with an open palm rising gracefully from the earthjustbelow thefreeway.It’svisually striking,but it also serves apractical purpose,

catching andfilteringstormwaterrunoff from Interstate 35 andguiding it to thebeds of native plants around it

Thelion’sshare of artpiecesinthe park were createdbySan Antonioartists,includingmuralsbythe likes of Alex Rubio, AdrianaGarciaand thelateKatie Pell; poetry by Vega andJohnPhilip Santos; an installation of brightly paintedsteel panels evoking papelpicadobyElizabethCarrington; anda paintedsewntensile fabric canopy by Rikkianne VanKirk.

Kersey is responsiblefor “Crayfish,”a bright redcrustaceanresting on apedestalat thetrailheadonElPasoStreet

Theideafor it came from folkswho attended Creek Fest,a riverauthority event, a fewyears ago. Kersey hada tableatthe event whereshe hadcolored airclayand invited people to make things with it.She also let them know that shehad been commissioned to create somethingfor thetrailhead,and askedthemwhattheythought sheshould make.

“I waswriting down notes, andpeople were making things andtalking abouttheir experienceswiththe SanPedro Creek,and so many people talked aboutplaying with crawdads.Itwas such aprofoundmemoryfor so many people,” shesaid. “And then Iwalked up anddownthe creek andnoticed birds were catching crawdads andeatingthem, andI couldsee crawdadbitsall over the sidewalks. Ithought it wouldbea funthing to make.”

Kersey also createdglazedceramic pieces illustrating thehistory behind somedowntown street names. They canbefound on the bridgesatSanta Rosa Avenue,Martinand Travis streets.

It meansa lottoKerseythather work is featured in thepark.

“It’snicetobea part of that,” shesaid. “And it’s nice to seeall theplans I’ve been readingabout foralmosta decade nowfinally completed.” ★

ASOUND SOLUTIONTO PREVENTING ANDTREATING HEARINGLOSS

Early detection cancurbcognitive decline

BY MISTYHARRIS

Preventingand treating hearingproblems canlower theriskofhealth problems.

MilitaryCityUSA is amoniker San Antoniansuse with pride. Thecityishome to four militaryinstallations andmany retiredmilitary memberswho arelikelyto have been exposedtoexcessive noise.

SanAntonio also ranks10thinthe countryfor prevalence of hearingloss, according to an articleinThe Health Review

“Certainly,thisisa placewhere we have active duty andretirees with lots of noise exposure.Wehavepeoplewho have done multiple toursinAfghanistan andIraq. Isee that daily,” said Phallong Doss, an audiolo-

gist servingthe SanAntonio area

Recent studiesconducted by Dr.Frank Linand hiscolleaguesatJohns Hopkins show that hearinglosscan increase therisk fordementia. Thestudy showed that even mild hearinglossdoubles therisk. Furthermore,the WorldHealthOrganization reportsthat7%ofdementiariskcan be attributed to unaddressedhearing loss. Doss likenshearing loss to alackof exercise

“Our ears getall of thecreditfor hearing, buttheyreally arejustkindoffunnels that send that informationalong pathways that areprocessedinthe brain,”she said.“So when someonehas hearingloss, they get less stimulationtothe brainevery day. And over time,I tell my patients it’s likethey’re

notgetting exercise.”

This canleadtocognitive decline, somethingDosssaysher office takesseriously by offering theMontrealCognitive Assessment,known as MoCA,tohelpdetect changesinpatients’ memory

When someoneexperiences signsof hearingloss, they need to be evaluated. If thereishearing loss, it’s importanttotreat it

“Soone of theeasiest things people can do fortheir brainhealthiftheyhavea hearinglossistowearhearing aids.Itjust naturally givesbackthatstimulation that someonewithnormalhearing wouldget,” shesaid.

People oftencannotdetecttheir hearing loss as it usually happens gradually.

If friendsand family pointout that you mighthavea problem, or younoticeyou can’thearpeopleina restaurant,oryou’re turningthe volume on your TV louder and louder,it’simportant to seek care.

Doss points outthathearing loss canbe tied to otherhealthproblems, whichcan lead to falls,diabetes, high bloodpressure, anxietyand depression.Younger people mightsufferstressatworkbecause they can’thearinstructions, or hearingloss may lead to socialanxiety

Goingtothe audiologistcan be like goingtothe dentist, sparking worryabout receivingbad news,but it’s an important step to protecting your health

RetiredSgt.1st ClassDavid Schible knowsthisall toowell, having served more

than 20 yearsinthe Army,mostlyininfantry,which included stints in Afghanistan

Schiblelearned he hadhearing loss during amedical exam,a routinepartofhis entryintothe specialforces, andlife changedfor him. He needed hisfirst pair of hearingaids.

Afterlearningofhis hearingloss, Schiblebecamea drill sergeant andlater worked in administration untilretiringin2018. He nowfeelsheneedstopay it forwardand help others

Schibleaimstoprotect themembers of themilitary, both active duty andretired, whomight be experiencing hearingloss. Throughhis role as vice presidentofthe Veterans Across America, HearingLoss AssociationofAmerica Chapter, he serves as an advocate forveteranswithhearing loss.

He also teachespeoplehow to take care of theirhearing while in themilitary. The chapterhosts avirtual monthlymeeting on Zoom andhas membersfromall over the country, includingSan Antonio.

Schiblealsomakes time to help people navigate theprocess of getting theirhearing corrected.Helistens to people,understands what they aregoing throughand connects them with theright people to assist them wherever they are.

He advisespeopleonthe importance of seekingmedical care as soon as they notice hearinglossbyvisitinganaudiologist and treating it with either hearingaidsorcochlear implants,depending on theindividual’s circumstances.

Beingabletohearagain is apowerful, life-changing experience

“Theymakethe qualityoflifesomuch better. It amplifiessounds, createswhite

noise(whichhelps with hearingloss-related tinnitus),and helpsyou hear wordsclearly,” Schiblesaid.

He also seekstohelphis fellowveterans, as hearinglosscan lead to otherhealth problems such as dementia,depression and, by association, suicide.

Whymight someoneexperiencinghearinglossnot wear ahearing aid?

Fora varietyofreasons,accordingto Doss, includingfearthatthe aids won’t work,embarrassmentoverhow they look, andconcernsabout cost andwhether insurance will coverthem.

Reluctance to wear hearingaidsiseven seen in themilitary, accordingtoSchible

“Weare very stubborn.It’sall about doingthe job, andwe’re very missionoriented,” Schiblesaid, explaining why some servicemembers andveteransmight notseekcare.

Thereisanadjustmentperiod; going from hearingpoorly to beingabletounderstand speech andhearing sounds someonemight have stoppednoticingcan be jarring.But Doss encourages people to wear theirhearing aids regularlyand take the time to adjust to them

“So, you’re shocking your system,and I tell people youdon’t just wake up one morningand decide to runthe Boston Marathon,” shesaid. It’s importantfor patients to continue wearinghearing aids as they adjust to them.

Patients should work with theiraudiologist or hearingaid specialisttoget theright fit, make adjustmentsand learnabout the technology specific to theirhearing aid, all of whichcan help make thetransition easier

Preventing hearinglossisjustasimportant as treating it,too. People should protect theirhearing at alltimes,whether it be turningdownthe volume on theirheadphones,wearing earplugs at concerts or usingprotectivemeasureswhenexposed to loud noises,suchaswhenmowingthe lawn or shootinga gun. This includes usingear protection while servinginthe military It’s essentialthatthose whocan hear be understandingand compassionate.

“Bepatient with people whohavehearingloss; youdon’t know thelengththeyare goingtotry andhearyou,” Schiblesaid. ★

T

e Big Giv he Bi Give e

Join us in supporting SJRC Texasfor the BigGive, a24-hour onlineday of giving that aims to upliftand support nonprofits in SouthCentral Texas! When yougivetoSJRCTexas | Belong, you’re providingchildrenand familieswithmorethanjustsupport; you’re openingthe door to healing, stability, andgrowth. Together,we canreimagine what’s possible for thoseweserve,creatinga pathwayto hope andbrightertomorrows.Early giving starts September10th!

"The

r isn’tsomething we wait for, It’s somethingwebuild, together."

OurGoal $175,000 Be apartofsomething life-changing! Sign up to be aFundraising Champion!Scanthe QR Code today!

What defines SanAntonio? More than just the bustlingRiverwalk,the historical Missions, andeventhe boomingpopulation that places it seventhinthe nation,it’sthe community-driven, entrepreneurialpeoplethatmakeupthe Faces of SanAntonio.The most ambitious and innovativeofthose people lead theSan Antonio businesscommunity in avarietyofindustries. From medical andmarketing,toeducation and esthetics, here,San Antonio Magazinegives them thespotlight to tell their stories.

Aspecial thankyou to TheCreameryDistrictand TheParkeronE.Mulberry for their partnershipand useoftheir facilities forselectportraits. PHOTOGRAPHERS: DaynaDeHoyos andSalgu Wissmath.

Children’s Healthcare

CHRISTUS CHILDREN’S

CHRISTUS Children’s is SanAntonio’s firstand only freestandinghospital dedicated entirely to children and expectant mothers. In partnershipwithBaylorCollegeof Medicine,weprovideworld-class,evidence-basedcarethrough acomprehensivenetwork of services that includes pediatric primarycareclinics,multispecialtycenters,maternal-fetal medicine, obstetrics andgynecologyclinics, midwifery services, rehabilitation clinics, andtwo freestandingpediatric emergencycenters.

Familiescomefromaroundtheworldtoaccesscarefrommore than 200 maternal andpediatric specialistsand advanced care providerswho deliverhighquality,compassionate, multidisciplinarycareinSan Antonio,New Braunfelsand SanMarcos.

As part of CHRISTUS Health,a Catholic, faith-based organization with amissiontoextendthe healingministry of JesusChrist, CHRISTUSChildren’s is builtona legacyof healingthatbeganin1869 when theSisters of Charityofthe IncarnateWordestablishedSan Antonio’s firsthospitalin response to acholera andyellowfever epidemic.

Rooted in this missionand guidedbyour core values of dignity,integrity,compassion, excellence,and stewardship, CHRISTUS Children’s hasgrown into an internationallyrecognizedacademic andresearch hospital—devotedtoadvancingpediatricandmaternal medicinewhile caring forthe physical,emotional, andspiritual needsofevery family we serve.

7TO7DENTAL

At 7to7Dental, they believe dentistry should fityourlife— notthe otherway around.That’swhy they’reopen7 days aweek, from 7AMto7 PM, so youcan getcarewithout disrupting your day.

They startedwithone mission:to make dentalcare convenient, affordable,and exceptional.Today,they’re proud to be atrusted name in SanAntonio,offeringpatient-focused dentistry forthe wholefamily.

Innovation MeetsCare

Thefutureofdentistry is here.FromInvisalign®and implants to emergencyvisitsand same-day appointments, everything they do is designedfor your comfortand convenience— poweredbythe latest technology.

WhyChooseThem?

Becauseyourtime, comfort, andsmile matter.Whether you need aroutine cleaning or acompletesmile makeover,they’re here when youneed them—early mornings, evenings, andweekends.

The Face of Men’s Clothing

PENNER’S

Foroveracentury,Penner’s Men’sStore has stoodasa cornerstoneofstyle in downtownSan Antonio.Family-owned andoperatedsince 1916, Penner’s has earnedasterlingreputationfor delivering high-quality menswear,exceptional service,and ashoppingexperience with apersonalizedtouch.

Fromsharp suitsand sportcoats to crispdress shirts, jeans, slacks, hats, anda carefullycuratedshoecollection, Penner’s blends timelessclassics with modern style. Thestore showcases world-class brands such as Jack Victor,HartSchaffner &Marx, DavidDonahue,Johnnie-O,7 Diamonds,34Heritage, Johnston & Murphy,and Cole Haan,ensuringevery gentleman findssomethingtofit his style.

OneofPenner’s most celebrated services is itscomplimentary in-house tailoring—a tradition upheldbya team of six experttailors,waiting on pins and needles to ensure theperfect fiteverytime

Beyond theclassics, Penner’s offers awide selectionofauthentic Guayabera shirts, most crafted exclusivelyinMéridaand Panama.Offered in Irishlinen, pure cotton,and soft blends,these shirts areavailable in an unmatched range of styles, sizes, andcolors. Penner’s nowhas an exclusiveboutiquefor Women, featuring theGuayabera dresses.

With more than 100 yearsofheritage, Penner’s remainsatrusted destination for gentlemen near andfar—serving generationsofloyal customerswithstyle, tradition,and genuinepride.Whether shoppingin-store or online, visitors can expect knowledgeableguidance,freeconvenientparking,unique apparel, anda warm welcome that feelslikefamily.

Family Owned Since

The Face of Healthcare

BAPTISTHEALTH SYSTEM

AFoundationofCare

When physiciansand community leaders came together in 1903 to meet San Antonio’s growinghealthcare needs, they built afoundation of care that continues more than 120 years later.

RootedinCompassion, CommunityandFaith

From asingle wooden building on what is now acorner of Baptist Medical Center in downtown San Antonio, the Physicians and Surgeon’s Hospital and its nursing school were launched.

Thevision and mission that launched it endures today: compassionate service inspired by faith. Baptist Health System’s values—Compassion,Safety,Excellence, Accountability,Innovation,and Faith—define it as atrusted community cornerstone.

AComprehensiveReachofCare

Baptist Health System today includes seven acute-care hospitals:Baptist Medical Center, Mission Trail Baptist, North Central Baptist, NortheastBaptist, St. Luke’s Baptist, and Westover Hills Baptist in San Antonio; and Resolute Baptist in New Braunfels.

Itsscope of services and care extends through Baptist Orthopedic Hospital and Baptist Children’s Hospital at North Central, Baptist Breast Centers, Healthlink fitnessand rehabilitation centers, the Baptist Medical Network of clinics, Baptist

BaptistHealth System Leadership Team (left to right):Top row:

Neighborhood Hospitals,M&S Imaging Centers, ambulatoryservices, medical office buildings, and the Baptist Health System School of Health Professions.

AccreditationsThatReflect Excellence

Quality is at the core of Baptist Health System, recognized by numerous accreditations and awards that reflect the dedication of physicians, staff,and leadership. These honors highlight the quality care patients across the regioncan receiveclose to home.

StillEvolving

In 2025, Baptist Health System continued to grow with milestones that include:

• Expandedvascularservices across all facilities

• HybridOperatingRoomandTelemetry Unit at North Central Baptist •Launch of single-incision robotic-assistedlungsurgery

• Advancedrobotic-assistedsystems across multiplehospitals

• SanAntonio’sfirstPercutaneous TransmuralArterialBypass(PTAB) at Northeast Baptist

• LevelIIITraumaCenterdesignation at Northeast Baptist

• Emergencydepartmentexpansion at St. Luke’s Baptist

• One-yearanniversaryofWestoverHills Baptist serving Far West San Antonio

• RecognitionasaBestRegionalHospital by U.S. News &World Report

Group Chief Strategy Officer Tripp Lyles| GroupVPBusiness Development Scott Herman

GroupChief Financial OfficerCharles Handley |GroupChief Mission &Ministry Officer Joe Perez

Second row from top:

Westover Hills Baptist President &CEO Brady Phillips |Market CEO&NorthCentral Baptist

CEO Bill Waechter |Mission Trail Baptist President &CEO,Erik Frederick

Thirdrow fromtop:

Group COO &St. Luke’sBaptist President &CEO Vicki Gulczewski |Group Communications

Director Patti Tanner |Group Marketing Director Kate Donaghy |Northeast Baptist President & CEOTerryTreadwell

Bottomrow:

Baptist MedicalCenter President &CEO Thomas McKinney |Group Chief Medical Officer

Sowjanya Mohan |GroupChief Human Resources OfficerStephanie Talley

Notshown:

Group Chief Nursing OfficerKristenLemus |Group Chief Information Officer Michael Elley

Group ChiefCompliance OfficerRebekah Batot |ResoluteBaptist President & CEOMarkBernard

EducatingtheNextGeneration ofClinicians

Education has been central since Baptist trained its first nurses in 1903. Today, the Baptist Health System School of Health Professions offers degrees in multiple allied health fields, through online and in-person programs. This pipeline of skilled clinicians helps ensurethe region’s healthcarefuture.

WhyBaptistHealthSystemIs Truly“TheFaceofHealthcare”

• Proximity&Accessibility: Owned and partnered facilities bring care closer to home.

• Faith-InspiredCare: Patients receive medical treatment and spiritual support.

• EducationalLeadership: Investment in training sustains alegacy of excellence.

• CommunityStewardship: Baptist reinvests in charitable care through direct services and in its supportoflocal nonprofitorganizations.

SupportingtheWell-Beingof PeopleandCommunity

During its 122 years, Baptist Health System has been atrusted healthcare provider, educator, andeconomic driver—currently supporting 22,500jobs and contributing $4.5billion annually to the region.

From classrooms to emergency rooms, outpatient treatmentstoadvanced surgeries, Baptist Health System is The Face of Healthcare—where innovation, compassion, faith, and community converge.

www.BaptistHealthSystem.com

TheFaceofBehaviorHealth

LAURELRIDGE TREATMENT CENTER

Foralmost40years,LaurelRidgeTreatment Center has been atrusted source of compassionate care forindividuals andfamilies seekingmentalhealthand substanceuse treatment. As oneofthe largestfree-standingpsychiatric hospitalsinthe region,our 330-bed facility serves as asafe havenfor healing—offeringspecializedprogramsthatmeet theunique needsofour diversecommunity

We areproud to provide tailored treatmentfor Active Duty military members, Veterans,and First Responders, recognizingthe unique challengesfacedbythose whoserve andprotect.Our Residential TreatmentCenterfor children andadolescentsoffersastructured,therapeuticenvironment whereyoung people can find stability, growth,and renewed hope forthe future.Inaddition,our acutestabilization programs servechildren, adolescents,and adults in crisis delivering immediate, compassionateinterventions that set thefoundationfor long-termrecovery.

At Laurel Ridge, we combineevidence-based practices with adeepcommitmenttodignity,respect,and individualized care.Our team of highlytrained professionals works side-by-side with patients andtheir families, ensuring that everytreatment plan addressesthe wholeperson.

From SanAntonio to thesurroundingareas,wehavebuilt alegacyoftrust,resilience,and transformation.Whether youoraloved oneisfacingemotional challenges, mental illness,orsubstance useconcerns,LaurelRidgeTreatment Center is here to guide youtowardstability,wellness, anda brighter tomorrow.

Laurel RidgeTreatment Center —Nearly40years of hope, healing, andcommunity care.

THE BRUNCHSPOT TheFaceofBrunch

TheBrunchSpot, anew diningdestinationoffering afresh andflavorful twist on classic brunch favorites, hasplanted rootsinConverse, Texas.Thehighly anticipatedrestaurant officially opened itsdoors in Marchand continues to invite thecommunity to indulgeina delicious brunch experiencelike no other.

“AtThe Brunch Spot,we’re servingupsunshineand Southern comforton everyplate,”saidTabby (Tabatha)Pryor,owner of TheBrunchSpot. “When youdinewithus, you’re family—socomeenjoy awarmwelcome,high-quality brunch dishesmade with love,and ataste of home.”

TheBrunchSpot’smenufeaturesa delightfulselection of sweetand savory brunchclassics, from crispy chicken& waffles andfluffypancakestotasty shrimp &grits, savory omelets, breakfastbowls,and asignature brunch burger. Guests canalsoenjoy avarietyofhandcrafted beverages,including locallyroasted specialtycoffees andbrunchcocktails like theblushing mimosa.

Breakfastisoftenconsidered themostimportant meal of theday,while lunch has long been atimefor family andfriends to connect.Drawing inspiration from cherishedfamilytraditions,TheBrunchSpothas crafteda menu that is both meaningful anddelicious andanatmospherewhere neighborsbecome friends,every dish tellsastory,and brunch is celebrated everyday of the week.

“Givingbackisveryimportant to my family.Bothofmyparents proudly served in themilitary, so community andservice have always been closeto my heart.That’s actually what inspired ourDine& Donate plate—20% of everyone sold goes straight to anonprofit we handpick each quarter. It’s our wayofspreadingalittlesunshinebeyondthe brunch table.”

Come by soon andsee whywe’re all about “serving up sunshine!”

Dine &Donate: Each monthThe Brunch Spot serves upsunshinewiththeir dine &donateplate.Thissavory breakfastofbacon,sausage, ham, eggs,and pancakes, isfor agoodcause.Eachmonth TheBrunchSpot donates20% of proceeds from this platetoa selected nonprofit-of-the-month.

78109

TEXASSKIN& VEIN

“Where advanced dermatology meetsTexas hospitality.”

At ourveteran-owned practice,patients experience theperfect blendofinnovativeskintreatmentsand old-fashionedcustomer service.

Ledbyboard-certified dermatologists Dr.Timothy Straight and Dr.AngelaMartini,our team is dedicated to providingpersonalizedtreatment plansthatachieve exceptional resultsinatruly welcomingexperience.

Thisyear, we proudlywelcome Courtney Correa,PA-C,whose extensive clinical expertise andcompassionate care further strengthen ourtrusted team.Together, we provide comprehensive medical andcosmetic dermatologyfor theentirefamily.

Whetheryou’reseeking relieffroma chronic skin conditionor lookingtorejuvenateyourappearance, you’ll find expertcarein an environmentbuilt on trust, comfort, andexcellence

Discoverthe difference today—yourskindeservesit.

The Face of Vein Care

TIMOTHYSTRAIGHT,MDPHD TEXAS SKIN &VEIN

Nightcramps, dull aches, heaviness, andrestlessnessinthe legs are frequentlyoverlookedsigns of vein disease. Many live with these symptoms foryears or developdiscoloration andother problems as the diseaseprogresses. Don’tlet this happen to you! Thereare newerand more advanced procedures to avoidsurgery anddramaticallyimprove these symptoms Theseproblemsare notcosmetic, so health insurance often covers treatment. In theright hands, avarietyofcosmetic solutions arealsoavailable to improvethe appearance of your legs or otherareas with varicoseveins.

Dr.Straightspecializes in both advanced vein treatmentand cosmetic procedurestoprovide acomprehensive solutionto your problem. He is anationallyinvited speakerand publishedauthor. Join thethousands of happy patients whodecidedtodosomethingabout their vein problem.

•San Antonio TopDoctors

•Board Certified in Dermatology

•Board

The Face of Museums

THE DOSEUM

DanMenelly is theCEO of TheDoSeum, SanAntonio’s premier museumforchildrenandfamilies,nowcelebratingits10thanniversary year. As thelongest-serving CEO in The DoSeum’s history, Danhas guidedthe museum througha decade of growth,welcomingover 400,000 visitors annuallyand developing TheDoSeumstature

Witha20-yearbackgroundasa science educator in public, independent, andinternational schoolsinthe U.S. andFrance, Danbringsdeepexpertise in STEM engagement,public learning, andinstitutional leadership.Under hisdirection,The DoSeum has broadened educationalprograms, builtstrongcommunity partnerships, andincreased accessibility,ensuringall children have opportunities to explore,create, andlearn.

Danisrecognizedfor hiscommitmenttoinnovation, inclusion, and organizational excellence.Beyondthe museum, he is accomplished in institutionaladministration,program design, andeducational policy, servingasascience andeducation advisortothe European Commissionfor Research &Innovationand contributing to media andpublic engagement initiatives.

Dancontinues to lead TheDoSeumintoa newchapter of service and inspiration,shaping thenext generation of curiousthinkers in San Antonio andbeyond.

The Face of Advertising &Public Relations

NOISYTRUMPETCOMMUNICATIONS THEPMGROUP

Meet Fran Yanity,adynamic leader in marketing, advertising, and communications.AsPresidentand COOofThe PM Group, andCEO of both NoisyTrumpet Communications andNinth Floor Events, Fran drives innovationacrossthree influential companies.

ThePMGroup andNoisy Trumpetare award-winningagencies basedinSan Antonio,celebratedfor their creative excellence and mediainfluence.The PM Groupexcelsinmedia strategy,while NoisyTrumpet is abold, nationallyrecognized agency knownfor uncovering freshstorytellingopportunities.

Fran’s diversecareerspans multiple industries, with expertise in marketing, communications,advertising, andclientmanagement. Sheisknown forher exceptional leadership,guidingteams throughcomplex projects with strategicvisionand finesse. Heraccomplishmentsinclude beingnamed as aWomen’s Leadership AwardHonoree by theSan Antonio BusinessJournal

Beyond herprofessionalroles, Fran is deeply committed to philanthropy.She hasheldmultipleleadership positionswith Breakthrough T1D (formerlyJDRF) andactivelysupportsfundraising effortsfor otherlocal nonprofits.

Fran Yanity is more than amarketing executive—she’s atrailblazer Herforward-thinking visionand dedicationto excellence continue to shapethe future of advertisingand communications in today’s fast-pacedworld

The Face of Listening and Spoken Language Education

SUNSHINE COTTAGE

SunshineCottage transforms potentialintoachievement

They provide parent-focused,child-driven intervention forfamilies of children whoare deaf or hard of hearingfrombirth to threeyears.

They areamuch-neededlifelinecommunity forthe deaf andhardofhearing, offering supporttoparents navigating theintricacies of aworld that canbe isolating. Within their community,parents find aplace of understanding, wherethe complexities of this unique journeyare notonlyacknowledgedbut embraced.The shared experiences create abondthatprovides peace-of-mind, knowing that they arenot aloneinfacingthe dailychallenges.

Through cutting-edgeassistive hearingtechnologies anda supportive community,SunshineCottage equips studentswiththe toolsand skills necessary to achieve their fullestpotential

At SunshineCottage,their passionate andexpertteamisdedicated to unlocking thefullpotential of everystudent, transformingpotential into tangible achievement.Through personalizedapproaches, they nurture confidence andprovide an authenticschoolexperience that goes beyond mere grade-levelproficiency.Their aimistoensurestudents notonlystay onpar with their peersbut surpassexpectations, enablingthemtoseamlessly transition into mainstream educationalenvironmentsand beyond.Weare committed to providinga stimulatingenvironment ledbyanexpertand specializedhearing health team,fostering an atmosphere whereevery child canthriveacademically andpersonally.

By focusingonindividualstrengths,theyequip their studentswitha skill set that will allow them to thrive wellintothe future,preparing them forsuccessinschool, lifeand beyond.Weendorse thedevelopment of fluentlisteningand spoken language as thefoundationfor literacyand future academic success.

SunshineCottage,a Listeningand Spoken Language School forDeaf Children, promotes earlyidentification andinterventionfor children whoare deaf or hard of hearingand helps them developtheir maximum potentialthrough listening, spoken language andliteracy.

The Face of Indian Food

INDIA OVEN

India Oven is afamily-owned culinary landmark in San Antonio, celebrating the rich tapestry of North Indian cuisine through avibrant and ever-changing menu. At the heart of its dining experience is arotating selection of authentic dishes—flavorful curries, buttery naan, fragrant biryanis, creamy dals, andcrisp samosas—meticulouslycraftedtohonorregionaltraditionswhileofferingvariety and depth to every visit.

More than just arestaurant, India Ovenisa labor of love, run by adedicated family passionate about hospitalityand cultural authenticity.Every detail—from the spices hand-ground in-house to the warmth of their service—reflects their mission to create awelcoming space where guestsfeel bothtransported and at home.

Following arecent remodel, the dining room now offers an expanded, refined setting ideal for everything from intimatedinners to family gatherings. Elegant lighting and elevated décor pair seamlessly withthe restaurant’s warm, approachable atmosphere. For those seeking convenience,IndiaOven also offers delivery, curbside pickup, takeout,and catering withbuffet-style setups perfect for special events.

Guests can indulge in athoughtfully curatedlunch buffet Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., featuring arange of dishesthat change daily. Fine dining service resumes each evening from 5p.m. to 10 p.m., offering afull à la carte menu under ambient lighting. India Ovenisclosed on Mondays but open every other day to delight new and returning patrons alike

The Face of Jewelry

GURINSKY’S FINE JEWELRY

Gurinsky’s FineJewelry is a family-owned andoperatedjeweler in San Antonio, Texas,proudly servingthe community since 1976. Nowinits secondgeneration, thebusinesshas builta legacyoftrust,craftsmanship,and personalizedservice acrossfourfamilygenerationsinthe area.Frommules to jewels!

Their missionasa2nd-generation family-owned business, they don’tjustsell jewelry- they pass down alegacyoftrust,craftsmanship,and exceptional service Whetheryou’researchingfor atimelessheirloom,designingsomethinguniquely yours,orrestoring abeloved piece, they arehonored to be part of your journey. BecauseatGurinsky’sFineJewelers, it’s notjustjewelry-itisyourstory,and they are here to helpyou tell it

Gurinsky’s is especially knownfor providing certified naturaland labgrowndiamonds,ethical sourcing, andexpertdiamond educationthat guides customersthrough the4Cs (cut,clarity,color,carat)sotheycan make informedchoices with confidence. Theteamalsooffersin-house full concierge-style services: custom jewelrydesign, stonesetting, ringresizing, and comprehensivewatch maintenanceand repair,all performedbyskilled artisans committed to precisionand care

Their missionistohelpevery customer find theperfect piece—whether a milestone watch or atreasured ring—while delivering exceptional serviceand timeless elegance.

With decades of localreputation, Gurinsky’s combines community roots, curatedluxury, andtechnical expertise to offer apolishedand nostalgicjewelry experience in SanAntonio

The Face of Independent Schools:WhereStudent

Lead,Thrive, and Know.

SAINT MARY’SHALL

SaintMary’sHalloffersarich,rigorouscurriculum.Insightfuldiscourse. Intensestudentsupport.And expansive opportunities forexploring the world.

They cultivatea cultureofbelonging whereevery studentisknown—by teachers,eachother,and in turn,themselves.

Foundedin1879, SaintMary’sHall delivers an exceptional collegepreparatoryexperience forstudents from Montessori throughgrade 12. Foundedonthe principles of knowledge, self-confidence,and respectfor others,SMH teachesstudents to grow in character, lead with integrity, thrive in college, andknowfulfillment in life.

Thestudentexperience includes vibrant fine arts opportunities, competitiveathletics, arobustcounselingand wellness team,globaland experiential learningexperiences, andjoyfultraditions. Recentgraduates from theClass of 2025 areheadingtotop institutions,including The University of TexasatAustin, Dartmouth, Howard,UPenn, NYU,Boston College, andStanford.

With a60-acre“campus forthe curious” that is designedfor discovery andconnection, SMHfosters asense of purpose, identity,and lifelong learning—forging confident, compassionate graduatesready to make their mark on theworld

Schedule atourbyvisitingtheir website at www.smhall.org

MichaelKiolbassa,CEO andRusty Kiolbassa, Regional Sales Manager

The Face of Craft Sausage

KIOLBASSA SMOKED MEATS

From asmall SanAntonio sausageshoptoa nationwide favorite, KiolbassaSmokedMeats hasbeenfamily-owned forover75years andstill slow-craftsevery bite theold-fashionedway to ensure exceptional flavor,uncompromisingquality,and food people cantrust

Foundedin1949 by Rufusand JuanitaKiolbassa,the company remainsproudly rooted on SanAntonio’s west side,now ledby third-generation ownerMichael Kiolbassa. Michael’sson,Rusty, represents thenext generation of thefamily, carrying forwardits tradition andvalues.

Knownfor itsclean,honestingredients, Kiolbassamakes itssignature smoked sausage, breakfastlinks, andbaconwithwhole-musclecuts of premium beef andpork—never anyfillersorartificialadditives. Naturallyprotein-richand gluten-free, each recipe offers clean, satisfying fuel forany meal,givingfamilies confidence in thefood they eat. Slow smoked over real hardwood in smallbatches, everybite is packed with bold flavor anduncompromisingquality

Though enjoyednationwide,Kiolbassa’s rootsrun deep in San Antonio.Frombackyardgrill masterstobusyparents, generations trustKiolbassa forbotheverydaymeals andspecial occasions. Guidedbyamissionto“enrichlives,”the family also givesback throughprogramslikeLinks of Love,whichdonates sausagetofeed firstresponders, communities, andcharities acrossTexas.

THE MAGICSALOON

Step inside theSan Antonio MagicSaloon, andyou’lldiscoveraworld wheresleight of hand meets heart, andwonder fillsthe air. Nestledinside thehistoricReuterBuildingatAlamo Plaza, this intimate venuefeatures arotatingcastofworld-class magicianswhose charisma,humor,and skillcaptivate audiences night after night.Eachmagician brings aunique style—fromclassic illusions andmind-readingtomodernclose-upmagic performedjustinchesfromyoureyes.

Whetherit’sthe smooth charmofa sleight of hand artist,the playful mischief of amentalist,orthe jaw-dropping illusions of aseasonedstage performer, theseartists aremorethanentertainers—they’re storytellers andmasters of astonishment.Manyhaveperformed on national television, toured internationally, andwon prestigiousawards, yetwhat sets them apartistheir deep connection with everyguest.

At theMagic Saloon,it’snot about flashy spectacle—it’sabout intimacy, interaction,and unforgettable momentsofdisbelief shared with friends, family,and strangers alike. Themagiciansheredon’t just perform magic—theycreateit. In SanAntonio’s vibrantculturallandscape,these faces of magicare redefiningwhatitmeans to be amazed.

TheFaceofPestSolutions

LONESTARPESTSOLUTIONS

Tina Louise Montoyaisthe Presidentand CEO of Lonestar Pest Solutions, a full-service pest controlcompany basedinSan Antonio,Texasfor thepast18yrs Tina transitioned into pest management eight yearsago,with30+ yrsofexperience inProperty&CasualtyInsurance. Tina broughtwithher deep expertise in business management,riskassessment, andclientservice.Atenacious andsolutions-driven leader,she has guidedLonestarPestSolutions to become adynamic, women-led organization in atraditionally male-dominated industry.

Lonestar Pest Solutions services both residential andcommercialclients with atailored, consultative approach that emphasizes prevention,education,and environmental responsibility.Fromtermite prevention to wildlife removaland large-scale commercial programs,the companyfocuses on addressingthe root causes of pest concerns—not just thesymptoms. Througha partnershipwitha BoardCertified Entomologist, highlytrained technicians, andthe useofEPA-approved conventional andgreen products, Lonestar delivers precise, environmentally responsible solutions with lastingresults.

Tina is also deeply engagedinthe SanAntonio community,activelycontributing to professionalassociationsand localorganizations. Lookingahead,her mission is to expandLonestarPestSolutions’impact, elevateindustrystandards,and create opportunities forwomen in leadership.Together, Tina andher team remain committed to protecting what mattersmostfor clients—buildinghealthier homes, saferbusinesses, andstrongercommunities acrossSan Antonio andbeyond.

TheFaceofCustom Windows

WINDOW NATION

Window Nation, apremier window and door replacement company with nearly two decades of experience, is proud to spotlight its San Antoniooffice. This thriving location brings Window Nation’s nationwide expertiseto South Texas homeowners—delivering professional installation,energy-efficient products, and personalized customer service. Aligned with its commitment to community and service, Window Nation haspartnered with the Dallas Cowboys to deliver memorable fan experiences—offering custom Jerseys, VIP passes, event activations at AT&T Stadium and The Star in Frisco, andfan giveaways tied to key moments like the NFLDraft.

Meanwhile, through its support of the Wounded Warrior Project®, WindowNation supports mental health programs, career-transition services, andevents such asthe Carry Forward® 5K that energize veteran communities nationwide.

Locally,the San Antonio team is led by Steven Pekar, whose deep roots in the Lone Star State and years of home-improvement expertise ensure homeowners receive acustomized experience from estimatetoinstallation. Steven is focused on bringing Window Nation’s lifetime-warranty promise and high standards to every home inthe market. Withcommunity investment, nationalpartnerships, and dedicated local leadership, Window Nation’s SanAntonio office is setting anew standard in home comfort and customercare.

Office ledbyCrystalMartin.

The Face ofAesthetics

ARIJAI AESTHETICS

At Arijai Aesthetics, beauty is more than skin deep —it’s theartfulblendofscience,artistry,andpersonalizedcare.

Under theexpertdirection of Dr.Balgobin,arenowned cosmetic surgeonwithareputationfor precisionand an eyefor natural, elegant results, we offer aluxury experience designedtobring outyourverybest.

With locationsserving both Minnesotaand Texas, Arijai Aesthetics specializes in afullspectrumofadvanced aesthetic services, from surgical transformationsto non-invasive treatments. Whetheryou’reseeking body contouring,facial rejuvenation,orcutting-edgemedspa services, everytreatment plan is customizedtoyour unique goalsand lifestyle

Dr.Balgobin’scommitmenttoexcellence begins with listening. He understands that each patient’svisionis deeply personal,and he workscloselywithyou to ensure resultsthatnot only meet butexceedexpectations. Hismastery of innovativetechniques— paired with acompassionate approach —ensures acomfortable journeyand naturallybeautiful outcomes.

Ourstate-of-the-art facilities aredesignedfor privacy, comfort, andexceptional care.Fromthe moment you step inside,you’llbewelcomedintoaspace whereluxury meets clinical expertise

At Arijai Aesthetics, we believe confidenceisthe most beautifulthingyou canwear. Letushelpyou achieve it.

IMX PILATES TheFaceofPilates

StrongerSpines-Smarter Training.Welcome to IM=X Pilates SATX- Wheremedical science meets modernmovement.

As theonlyphysician-owned Pilatesstudio in SanAntonio,IM=X (IntegratedMovementXercize) delivers resultsfar beyond aesthetics. Developed by ElyseMcNergney,M.A., M.Ed.—a movement science expertcertified in traditional Pilatesand theAlexander Technique, withgraduate degrees from NYU andColumbia, this innovative method fusestraditional Pilateswithstrengthtraining,cardio bursts, and spinal stabilization—builtonclinicalresearch.

Everysession is poweredbythe Xercizer reformer,acutting-edge machineengineeredfor safety andperformance.Frominjuryrecovery to athletic enhancement, ourscience-backedsystemstrengthens posture,buildsresilience,and restores functional movement

Ledbyexpertlytrained instructors, ourprogramsadapt to every fitnesslevel—makingIM=X ideal forbeginners, athletes, andanyone seekingintelligent, spine-saferesults. We proudlyoffer free private introsessions,plusdiscounts forteachers, firstresponders, students, and military/veterans

Thisismorethana workout—it’smovementmedicine, poweredby knowledgeand puro SanAntonio heart.

Backed by science.Guidedbyexperts. Ownedbyphysicians. IM=X PilatesSATXisthe newstandardfor strength in BexarCounty.

AROYAL FLUSH TheFace of Luxury Portable

In aworld where firstimpressions matter,ARoyal Flushischangingthe conversation around portapotties—proving that even themostfunctional aspectsofaneventcanbeelevatedwithoutsacrificingcomfortforportability.

With interiorsthatrival boutique hotelbathrooms,eachluxuryunitfeatures climatecontrol,porcelain toilets andsinks, ambientlighting, and—most importantly—anon-site attendanttokeepthings spotless-all to give guests a seamless,elevatedexperience.

Foundedin2001 by thelateTom Daniels,ARoyal Flushwas the firstinSan Antonio to offer awhite-glove standard in an industry long associated with bare minimums. Nowowned andoperatedbyhis nephew,SeanDaniels,the companyproudlycontinuesthatlegacy—builtonquality,professionalism,and customerservice.

“Wetreat ourcustomers andour competitorslikefriends,” Sean says. “We help people find theright solution,evenifit’snot with us.” Sean’s degreein Architecture andbackgroundinhospitalityhas helped shapeARoyal Flush’s brand,aswellastheirhighlyratedcustomerservice

With thelargest inventoryofluxuryrestroomtrailersinSouth Texas, ARoyal Flushremains thetrusted name forweddings, festivals, emergencyresponse, andmore—fornearly25years

Thisisn’tyouraverage“porta-potty”…ThisisARoyalFlush.

HYDRAHIVE IV &MED SPA

HydraHive: TheFaceofLongevity,Wellness, andRejuvenationin SanAntonio

SanAntonio,meetHydraHive—the medspa redefiningwellness, beauty,and vitality from theinside out. Namedone of the Top3 IV HydrationLounges in SanAntonio by SA Current,HydraHiveisthe city’s premier destination for wellness, rejuvenation,weightmanagement,and longevity.

FoundedbyEduardo O.,a board-certified Family NursePractitioner, HydraHivewas builtonasimplephilosophy: true health andbeautystart at the cellular level.Every service is designed to nourish, revitalize, and restore,fromnutrient-richIVdrips andpeptide therapies to rejuvenating facialsand precisionaesthetic injectables. Treatments supportnot just appearance—theyoptimize energy,promote healthyaging,and helpclients achieve sustainable weight loss andmetabolic balance

With aNurse Practitioner onsite at alltimes, everyclientreceives expert, personalized care fortheir unique wellness goals. “Our missionissimple,” Eduardoexplains, “tohelppeople look radiant, feel energized, maintain ahealthy weight,and livelonger, healthier lives.Whether it’s ahydration boost,peptide therapy,ora signature treatment, we focusonresults that truly transform.”

As SanAntonio’s Face of IV &Wellness HydraHiveinvites locals to experience amed spawhere beauty,vitality, andwellnessconverge—inside andout.

The Face of Urgent Care

NEXT LEVELURGENT CARE

NextLevelUrgentCareisoneofTexas’fastest-growing healthcare providers. Physician ownedand operated, theorganization is builtona commitmenttomake high-quality care accessibleand affordable.Next Leveldeliversexperttreatment foracute illnessesand injuries at afraction of emergencyroomcosts. With more than 45 locationsacrossAustin, Beaumont, Houston, andSan Antonio,clinics areopendaily from 9AMto9PMfor convenient, same-day care.

Through itsinnovativeemployerprogram,Next LevelPrime,Next Levelalsooffersintegratedcare, telemedicine, health coaching, andlab services at no costtomembers,helping businesseskeeptheir teams healthyand productive.Known forits welcoming clinics, patient-focused approach,and efficient service,Next Levelisredefininghealthcarewith compassion, convenience,and value.

The Face of Photography

ELLE ROSEGOLD STUDIO

Elle Rosegold Studio is an internationalaward-winning portrait studio with atransformativepromise:Wecapture the radiance youcarry inside andthe storythat’sbeenwaiting to be told.Hereyou’lldiscoverluxurious,glamorous,fineart–inspired portraiturecrafted by SanAntonio’s only Associate of ThePortraitMasters.Our studio createsanelegant blendof art, fashion, andphotography forthose whorefusetoremain invisible. Thisisn’t just aphoto session, it’s your moment to claimthe spotlight youdeserve.Every imageisa masterpiece designedtocommand attentionand leavethe viewer inspired Founderand photographer AngelinaElleMelendezbrings 15 yearsofelite modelingexperience to everysession, arare advantagethattransformsordinaryportraits into breathtaking worksofart.Angelinaunderstands thevulnerability of stepping in frontofthe camera. Thosebutterflies? Thecritical inner voice? She’sbeenthere many times. With skills honed throughthe years, she guides even themostcamera-shy clients into posessonaturaland confident, you’ll barely recognize thegoddessstaring back at you.

Afterserving more than 70 prestigiousbrandsasa commercial photographer,Angelinachose portraitureasher soul’s calling. Shemeticulouslybuilt this boutique sanctuarywith uncompromisingluxuryinmind, sourcingonlythe world’s finest materialsand partnering with master artisans to ensure everyimage transcends photographyand becomesheirloom art.Havingmentoredunder world-renownedartists, worked aside theindustry’smostsought-after creatives, andhired as aStylist foraVogue coverphotographer, hertrained eyefor posing, styling, andeditorial perfection ensuresyou’lllook nothingshort of extraordinary.

At Elle Rosegold Studio,you don’tjustget photographed, youget transformedintomuseum-worthyart.You’llfeel cherished, pampered,and absolutelyradiantinyourown skin. Becausethe person youare deservestobeseen, celebrated, and remembered forgenerations to come

The Face of Orthopaedics

TSAOG ORTHOPAEDICS

TSAOGOrthopaedics &Spine is proudtobe“TheFace of Orthopaedics” in SanAntonio andSouth Texasfor over 75 years. Their physiciansestablishedtheir grouptogivepatients access to as much physician directedcareaspossibleunder aseamless umbrella. At oneoftheir eight locations, patients caneasily accessx-rays or advanced imaginglikeMRI andCTscans,as wellasreceive physical or hand therapy.For surgical care,their surgery centers areexclusively designedfor advanced orthopaedic procedures includingrobotics totaljoint replacement. Thegroup is theproud home of adiverse team of specialistswho provide surgical andnon-surgicaltreatmentsfor musculoskeletal conditionsand injuries. Their physiciansare committed to excellence from diagnosistorecovery, delivering thehighest standardoforthopaedic care to everypatientacrossmultiple specialties closetowhere patients live

As part of their ongoingmissiontoincreaseaccess to high-quality orthopaedic care,TSAOG recently expandedclinics in New Braunfelsand GraysonHeights, enhancingspecializedservices in GreaterSan Antonio andSouth Texas.

TSAOGOrthopaedics &Spine is aone-stopdestination for orthopaedic care,treatingpatients head to toe.

SUMMERMOON COFFEE

It wasaspark of Texaspioneer spirit that ledtothe oakroasted coffee that isSummer Moon.Adream to craft coffee more authenticallyhas ignitedan ever-growingcommunity of coffee lovers whowon’t have their coffee roasted anyother waythanoveraroaring wood fire.Whatstarted over 20 yearsago asasinglecoffeeshopinSouth Austin has nowgrown acrossTexas, including 5 SanAntonio locations: Medical Center (FredericksburgRd), StoneOak (281 andEvans Rd), St.Mary’s(TriPoint campus), AlamoRanch (Culebra Rd), andLeonSprings (I-10 andRalph Fair Rd).

Each of their coffee shops offers acozyplace to meet others,get work done, or just enjoyagood cupofcoffee. They also offera varietyofbaked goods, includingkolaches, sweetand savory pastries, cookies andbreads, with gluten freeand veganselectionsalsoavailable

Summer Moon’s coffee beansare still roastedinthe TexasHillCountry in thesamewood-fired brickovens they builtusingthe time-honored processof 19thcentury coffee masters. Forovertwo decades, they have been committed tomakingsmall,hand-roasted batchesofthe finest beansoverseasonedTexas postoak.And,whenpairedwiththeir famous (and secret family recipe)sweet cream they call “MoonMilk,”itcreates thefinest latteyou will ever have

From theroaster tendingthe fire to thebarista steamingthe Moon Milk, these arethe faces of Summer Moon.Stopbyone of their shops to try their amazingcoffeeand to experience their even more amazingSummer Moon hospitality.

The Face ofReal-World Readiness in Public Education

JUDSON ISD

At Judson ISD, preparingstudents forthe real worldisn’t just agoal, it’s acommitment. Across thedistrict, innovative programsand cutting-edgetechnologyempower students to explore,create, andlead. Oneshiningexample is KirbySTEM Academy, home to astate-of-the-art SmartLab®where young learners dive into robotics, coding, 3D design,and digital media. It’s hands-onlearningthatmirrors thecareers of today andtomorrow.

LedbyPrincipal Nicole Rosas-Saunders, KirbySTEM Academyexemplifies howJudsonISD brings real-world readiness to lifeinthe classroom. Butit’snot just onecampus, Judson ISDensures allstudents, acrossall schools, have access to career-connectedexperiences. Studentsfromelementary tohighschoolare immersedina cultureofinnovation, collaboration,growthand endlesspossibilities.

“Webelieve everystudentdeservesaccess to thetools and experiencesthatpreparethemforsuccessbeyondtheclassroom,” saysDr. Milton “Rob”FieldsIII, SuperintendentofSchools “JudsonISD is buildingafuturewhere public educationleads theway in real-world readiness.”

Judson ISDisproud to be theface of what’s possible in public education. LearnmoreatJudsonISD.org.

DOUGH PIZZERIA NAPOLETANA

After yearsofworking in therestaurant andhospitality business, Doug& Lori Horn decidedthatitwas SanAntonio,whichtheycall“thekindestand friendliestcityinthe U.S.”thatwould become thehomeofDough Pizzeria Napoletana!

At atimewhenNeapolitanpizzeriaswerefarandfew between, they took aleapoffaith andin2007 opened their firstlocationinCastleHills. With thesupport of thelocal community,Dough became theplace to gather with friends,familyand co-workers.In2018,Dough expanded theirconceptand opened in Hemisfair.Tobeinthe heartofthe city wasa dreamcometrue! At theheart of Doughisthe wood-burningoven, whichwas builtand shippedfromNaples, Italy. “IICuore”bakes thepizzasat900degrees+ in 90 seconds! Their freshMozzarellaismadein-house daily, andthe result is theircreamy,delicious Burrata. Their wine list is predominatelyall-Italian, andtheyoffersignature craft cocktailsaswellasavarietyofcraft beer. Their dessertsare also madein-house andare aperfect pairingwiththeirespresso drinks, featuringKimbo coffee from Naples, Italy.

Doughhas been featured on Food Network’s Diners,Drive-ins &Dives, TripleD Nation and Diners,Drive-ins &Dives:Take-out. Thanks to Food Network, Pizzalovers from notonlySan Antonio; butfromall over the worldare diningatDough!

Behindthe successofDough is thesupportivecommunity,aswellas Dough’sdedicated management teamandstaff. They sharethe same drive andpassion: to strive forperfectionand to learnfromthe past;but to always move forward!

Dough’s“Did youknow…”

• Th e Pizza oven at the Hemisfair location is called “Scintilla” which means “Sparks”in Italian. That is the name of Doug& Lori’sbeloved English Bulldog-Sparks. Also, the oven enclosure is covered entirely with pennies!

• The name “Dough”came from Doug’sfirst name and the fi rst initial of his last name.

• Doug & Lori’s mentor is the great Pizzaiolo, Chris Bianco from Pizzeria Bianco in Phoenix.

• Dough’sGluten-Free Pizza has been called “Th e bestin the world!” by many happy guests.

• Dough ships their pizzas nationwide via Goldbelly.

• Next up…”Dough on the Go!” Catering throughout the community.

TheFaceofBoysVolleyball

PARADOXVOLLEYBALL

In theheart of SanAntonio,ParadoxVolleyballis redefiningthe landscapeofboys’ volleyball—not just as asport,but as amovement. Anchored by anamethat embraces duality, Paradoxstandsfor thesurprising balance at thecoreofathletic mastery: “speed and power, whilealsorequiringpatience andfinesse controlthe chaos andalsocreateconsistency”.

At itslaunch, Paradoxestablishedthree visionary objectives. First:toserve as acatalystfor youth, providingopportunities to grow,learn,and experience boys’volleyballright in their hometown.Second: to developboththe athleteand theperson, empowering youngplayerswithtransferableskillsvitalforsuccess on thecourt,inschool, andbeyond. Andthird: to deliveradeeper, more holistic volleyball experience, investingineachplayer’sfundamentals, volleyball IQ, andnational-caliber resume.

Guidedbyseasonedformerplayers andcoaches, Paradoxoffersafullyintegratedprogram—melding advanced training, mentorship,and competition— meticulously designedtocultivate athletes whostrive formore. Their inaugural2023–2024 season exceeded expectations, securing multiple finals appearances, twobidstohigh-leveltournaments, andastandout runatthe AAUNationals

ParadoxVolleyball offers more than just play—it invitesareimaginingofboys’ volleyballinTexas. With clinics, year-round evaluations, andinclusive team placements (notryouts or deadlines), Paradox positionsitselfnot only as apremier club butasa transformative forceinyouth sport.

Anotefromthe coach:

“WewantParadoxtonurture thefutureand existence of boys’volleyballinour city.The sportisinafragile stateinTexas, andwe’ve seen allthe metroplexes rise andfallwithpopularityand even availability of our sport.

No matter whohas themostplayers or best teams. We want Paradox, their coaches, their players, their families to be thebestambassadors to thesport being areality andpermanent option foryoung male athletes in ourcity. We want each of ourplayers andteams to inspirethe next.”

The Face ofDestination Dining &Shopping

ALAMO QUARRYMARKET

Alamo Quarry Market, a590,000squarefoot open-air retail center, traces itsorigins to the Alamo Cement Company, foundedin1908, andhas been an integral part of thedevelopment of theSan Antonio,Texascommunity forover acentury.While only theiconic smokestacks andkilns remain from theoriginalcementplant, they continue to standasenduringmarkers of itshistory.Onceanindustrialhub,thisformer cementplant hassince been transformedinto avibrant destination forshopping, dining, andentertainmentwhile preserving itsheritage.

Alamo Quarry Market features more than 75 distinguished stores andrestaurantsincluding NordstromRack, Lululemon,

BananaRepublic, Sephora, Columbia Sportswear, Nike,Lucchese Boot Co., PotteryBarn,WilliamsSonoma,andWholeEarth ProvisionCo.,along with afabulouscollection of fine andcasualdiningincludingFleming’s PrimeSteakhouse& Wine Bar, J. Alexander’s, P.F. Chang’s, Piatti,Kura Sushi, andthe recent addition of Seasons52, as well as Regal16-plex Cinemaswithluxuryauditoriums.Thisspacious, open-air shoppingcenteroffersample curb-side parkingfor itsshoppersand is locatedminutes from either theairport or downtown,justoff HWY 281 at East BasseRoad. Thecenteralso features aFarmer’sMarketevery Sunday near WholeFoods Market.

The Face of Shoulder and Knee Care

TEXAS OAKS ORTHOPAEDIC & SPORTS MEDICINEINSTITUTE

Dr.David M. GonzalezisanOrthopaedic Surgeon with 44 yearsofexperience, focusingonshoulder andkneearthroscopy. He graduatedfromthe University of Texas Health Science Center Medical School in SanAntonio andservedinthe United States Army forover21years,completinghis Orthopaedic Surgery residency at Brooke Army Medical Center.

Dr.Gonzalezalsopursued a2-yearResearch andSportsMedicinefellowshipatthe Burn Unit InstituteofSurgicalResearchatthe US Military AcademyatWestPoint.Heserved in theGulfWar. Throughout hismilitary career,heheldtop leadership positionsin all hisassignments culminatingasChief and Residency ProgramDirectoratBAMC. ColonelGonzalez’sexceptional skills were recognizedwiththe “A”proficiency designatoraward.After retiring,hereceived theLegionofMerit awardand nowpractices in SanAntonio,specializing in rotatorcuff arthroscopic repair andreconstruction. Committed to upholdingthe highest standardsofcare, Dr.Gonzalezcontinues to provide expertsurgicalcaretohis community.

The Face of Hospitality

HOTEL EMMAATPEARL

Sternewirth, thecelebratedtavernand clubroom at HotelEmmaatPearl,isdefined by atransformativespiritofhospitalitythat elevatesevery visit. LedbyGeneralManager JamesLindbloom,along with Lead Bartender &Sommelier DavidYoung andLeadBartender AngelHernandez,the team hasearneda reputation forcreatingthe best hotelbar experience in thecity.

As thebar programofthe only MICHELIN TwoKey hotelinSan Antonioand oneof just twoAAA Five Diamondproperties in Texas, Sternewirthcombinesthe timelesscraft of cocktail-makingwithforward-thinking innovation.Its acclaimed Single Barrel initiative exemplifies this balance,withsomeofthe finest spiritspersonallyselectedbythe brands’master distillersinpartnership with theSternewirth team.

Beyond itshistoricsetting inside thecirca-1894 Pearl Brewhouse, Sternewirththrives as a beaconofculturalconversation.The team regularlyhosts specialtytastingsand pop-up events, from collaboratingwithneighborsin thelocal barscenetorepresentingHotel Emma at this year’s prestigiousTales of theCocktail conference in NewOrleans.

In everypourand everyexchange, James, David, andAngel carryforward Sternewirth’s missiontooffer guests aone-of-a-kind experience that is at once refinedand welcoming,and deeply rooted in heritage.

Forover100 years,CantwellMattress Companyhas been dedicatedto theart of handcrafting exceptional sleep solutions, right hereinSouthTexas.

Ourlegacyisbuilt on a foundationofquality, tradition, and innovation,ensuring that every mattress we produceupholds thehighest standardsofcomfort anddurability.

We takeimmense pride in using all-natural Texascotton— amaterial chosen forits superior breathability, resilience, and eco-friendly properties.Bystaying true to this time-honored tradition, we create mattressesthat provide exceptional support and long-lasting comfort, night afternight.

EVENT LISTINGS

BY JIMKIEST

September

Passport Germany: Beer, brats and pretzels are perfect fare for an Oktoberfest party, butGerman culture and cuisine have muchmore to offer. That’s the point of Central Market’s PassportGermany celebration, which willfeature regional specialties from Hamburg to Bavaria, including Handlmaier mustard,bee sting cake and Wostok sodas, as well as art,music and special events. ThroughSept. 23, Central Market, centralmarket.com

“Nuestras Voces: Stories of Resilience”: This dance production featuring the Guadalupe Dance Company, Mariachi AztecadeAmerica and Conjunto Guadalupe celebrates historical Mexican American leader. It’s part of theFiestasPatrias 2025 calendar celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month in San Antonio. See the full month’s activitiesatSA.gov/arts. Sept.20, Buena Vista Theater, UTSA Downtown Campus

John Cleese: Comedian Cleese’s rage, whimsy and, to be fair, his height, madehim atoweringpresence in the Monty Python comedy troupe. At age 85, he’s on the road celebratingthe 50th anniversaryof“Monty Python and the Holy Grail” with ashow titled “Not Dead Yet!” Sept.18, Majestic Theatre, majesticempire.com

Terri Clark: Country singer Clark had a string of hits in the ’90s and early ’00s with songs such as “Better Things To Do,” “Now That IFound You” and “Girls Lie Too.” She rerecordedthose songs andmoreonthe 2024 EP “Take Two” with currentcountry stars including Cody Johnson andCarly Pearce. Sept. 21, Tobin Center for the Performing Arts, tobincenter.org

“Kimberly Akimbo”: The Tony Award-winning musical hits all the emotions —the Guardiannewspaper inthe UK called it a“joyous treasure.” It’s about ateenage girl with arare genetic condition in addition to the usual teenage turmoil. Standoutsongs include “Skater Planet” and “Better.” Sept. 23-28, Majestic Theatre, majesticempire.com

“Cirque Du Soleil Ovo”: This acrobatic spectacle is set in acolorful worldofinsects, where the arrival of amysterious egg instigates the action and aladybug falls for a quirky newcomer. Sept. 25-28, Frost Bank Center, frostbankcenter.com

Jazz’SAlive: The theme of the San Antonio Parks Foundation’s annual free musicfest is “Smooth by Nature.” Thisyear’s performers include bass player Endea Owens, amember of the “Late Show”band, and celebrated Latinjazz musician Pedrito Martinez. Sept. 26-27, CivicPark at Hemisfair, saparks.org

Gridiron 2025: “DangerouslyEntertaining & Irrereveant” (note the initials) is thetitle of thisyear’s annual Gridiron Show, in which San Antoniocommunications professionals spoof current events and local government Proceeds helpfund scholarships for journalism students. Sept. 27, UTSA Buena Vista Theater, Facebook: SPJSanAntonio

Parktoberfest: Oktoberfest comes earlyto Brackenridge Park with this celebration of Germanfood, culture and, naturally,beer. San Antoniobreweries will be offering free samples. Sept. 28, Brackenridge Park, brackenridgepark.org

October

San Antonio Home and Garden Show: Dave and Jenny Marrs, stars of the HGTV series “Fixer to Fabulous,” will be the celebrityguests at the fall SanAntonioHome +Garden Show. Exhibitors will be showing off the latest in roofing, kitchens, landscaping, pools, housewares,appliances, construction and renovation, as well as many more categories. Oct. 3-5, Alamodome, sanantoniofallhomeshow.com

Cage the Elephant: Austin City Limits Music Festival spinoff shows this year include avisit from Grammy-winning alt-rock band Cage the Elephant, infrequent visitors to the AlamoCity. The band, known for songs such “Cigarette Daydreams” and “Ain’t No Rest for the Wicked,” released anew album, “Neon Pill,” last year in the wake of singer Matt Shultz’s widely publicized mental health struggles. Oct 4, Boeing CenteratTech Port, boeingcentertechport.com

Indigo Girls and Melissa Etheridge: This co-headlining tour is titled “Yes We Are,” areference to rocker Etheridge’s hit 1993 album “Yes IAm.” Both acts are known for enduring hits, such as Etheridge’s “I’m the Only One” and the Indigo Girls “ClosertoFine,” and for helpingopen doors for female and LGBTQ musicians. Oct. 9, The Espee. theespee.com

Barbacoa &Big Red Festival: San Antonio’s signature food and drink pairing gets aparty of its own. Live music and amini market are part of the fun. (Answers to frequently asked questions: There will be more than

barbacoa to eat, and Big Red Zero will be available.) Oct.11-12, Freeman Coliseum Grounds andExpoHall, barbacoabigredfestival.com

Big Texas Comicon: Featured guests scheduledtoappear at this pop culture convention include Priscilla Presley, Henry Winkler, Tori Spelling and Antony Starr, Homelander on the FX series “The Boys.” Artists, vendors and cosplay will be part of the fun, too. Oct. 17-19, Convention Center, bigtexascomicon.com

Jonas Brothers: Acouple of years after their career-spanning tour “The Tour,”the Jonas Brothers return to San Antonio with anew album, “Greetings From Your Home Town. Fans here haveturnedout for the Disney Channelveterans since they played Six Flags Fiesta Texas in 2007. Oct. 18,Frost Bank Center, fronstbankcenter.com

Luminaria: For the second year in arow, the nighttime arts festival Luminaria will take over St.Paul Square,turningthe historic East Side district into an open-air gallery for art, music, theater and poetry. Oct. 18,St. Paul Square, luminariasa.org

Day of the Dead celebration: Thecity’s official Día de los Muertos celebration will feature agiant Catrina statue, folk art, live music, giant decorative skulls and aticketed lounge sponsored by Herradura Legend Tequila. Oct. 24-26, La Villita, dayofthedeadsa.com

Paul McCartney: The last two times Paul McCartney was in town, it was for special events: the opening of the Alamodome and a Tobin Center fundraiser. His latest stop is a special event in its own right. At 83, the most famous and influential living musician is still getting glowing reviews —justcheck out his show-closing performance from“Saturday Night Live’s” 50th anniversary special. Oct. 25, Alamodome, alamodome.com

Muertos Fest: Dozens of altars honoring deceased loved ones will fill Hemisfair during the Día de los Muertos celebration popularly known as Muertos Fest. The festival also features live music on multiple stages, a procession through the park, arts and events for children. Oct. 25-26, Hemisfair, muertosfest.com

Atsuko Okatsuka: New York Magazinehas called stand-up comic Atsuko Okatsuka, who’s bringing her “Big Bowl” tour —a reference to hersignature hairstyle —to town, one of the best in the business. Born in Thailand and raised in Japan and the U.S. by her grandmother, she draws on her notable upbringing and relatable grown-up experiences in her sets and stand-up specials such as “Father,”now streaming on Hulu. Oct. 26, Aztec Theatre, theaztectheatre.com

November

Nile Rodgers &Chic: The Tobin Center’s annual benefit concert goes disco with Nile Rogers and Chic, which combined the most stylish funk with callstoparty on songssuch as “LeFreak” and “Good Times.” Nov. 1, Tobin Centerfor the Performing Arts, tobincenter.org

Diwali SA: The traditional Indian Festival of Lights will feature food, art, folk dances, floating candles and fireworks. Nov. 1, Arneson River Theatre and Hemisfair, anujasa.com

Wine, Dine &Jazz Festival: Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the line-upwill include San Antonio’s Chef Jess “Kirk” Kuykendall Saturday includes chef cooking demos, samples, and tastings from 14 wineries. Nov. 7-8, Horseshoe Bay Resort, hsbresort.com/wine-dine-jazz

Veterans Day: Marching bands, military units and floats will parade downHouston Street at noon to honor veterans and active-duty military members and their families. Afree, daylong observation at Hemisfair will include a military flyover, music,food,drinks and resources for veterans. Nov. 8, downtown, usmvpa.com, hemisfair.com

Yanaguana Indian Arts Festival: This annual event includes live performances, storytelling,

adrum circle and an artisan market. Nov. 8, BriscoeWesternArt Museum, briscoemuseum.org

JohnMulaney: Since comedy star Mulaney waslast in town, he’s welcomed asecond child with his wife, Olivia Munn, and grappled with three teenagers on his curious Netflix talk show. So he’s got things to talk about on his

latest tour, which is titled “Mister Whatever.” Nov. 11-12, Majestic Theatre, majesticempire.com

“Stop Making Sense”: Musician Jerry Harrison will be present at this screening of the classic rock documentaryabout his band Talking Heads. Nov. 13,Majestic Theatre, majesticempire.com ★

DI NI NG OU T

WheretoDine+ DrinkAroundTown

2M SMOKEHOUSE $ Barbecue(Southeast). Esaul Ramos serves all the classic barbecue fare —from brisket and pulled porktospare ribs and turkey —but with aMexicanflair, which means 2M has barbecue tacosand tres leches cake. Get there early. The restaurant closes when the day’s meat sellsout. L Thursday-Sunday. 2731S.W.W. White Road, 210-885-9352

ÁCENAR $$ Mexican/LatinAmerican (downtown). Founded by Rosario’s Lisa Wong, this eatery’s menu includes favorite Tex-Mex dishes plus traditional Mexican specialties, each with acontemporary twist.Ifa tequila-infused cocktail is what you’reafter, head to the bar, Atomar, duringhappy hour for killer drink specials and $5 platitos, or “little plates.” L-D daily. 146E.Houston St., 210-222-2362, acenar.com

ALAMO BISCUIT CO. &PANADERIA $$ American (North Central, River Walk). This biscuit-centriceatery turns out freshbaked biscuits andtraditional Mexicanpastries daily. Top aflight of biscuits with sweet strawberry, blackberry, raspberry and mango jams or savory house gravies ranging from classic to poblano and chorizo sausage. Biscuit

sandwichescomewith everything from brisket andgravy to friedchickenorshrimpand grits. In addition to breakfast and brunchfavorites, the new River Walk location, open 24 hours, also serves tacos, burgers and pizza by the slice, as well as pasta dishes, astuffedpork chop,rib-eye steak and acarne guisada combo plate B-Ldaily.9630 Huebner Road,Suite103, 210-265-5585;B-L-D daily. 849E.Commerce St., 726-217-7662, alamobiscuitco.com

BAKERY LORRAINE$ Bakery (Pearl,Medical Center,The Rim, Boerne) All those accolades aren’tjust hype. Join the crowds thatgatherto taste Bakery Lorraine’sfamous macarons, or choose asavory bite from the lineup of breakfast and lunchdishes. The bakeryhas a location at Pearl,stores at the MedicalCenter andthe Rim, an outpost at The DoSeum anda location in Boernethatalso servesbeerand wine. B-L-D daily.Multiple locations, bakerylorraine.com

BAKLOVAHBAKERY $ Bakery (Northwest)

The team behind Pasha Mediterranean Grill openedthis outpost for everything sweet. The handmade pastries include Americanfavorites likeapplepie,opera cakes and macarons, plus Mediterranean delicacies, including walnut

baklava, kanafeh pastriesand meatpies Open daily. 9329 Wurzbach Road, Suite 104, 210-982-3231, baklovah.com

BAR LORETTA $$ American, bar(Southtown). Restaurateur RogerHerr workedwith executivechef Paul Petersen to create a Texas-inspired menu thatcombines finedining and approachabilityindishes like chile-glazed quail, chamoy Brusselssprouts andburgers. D Tuesday-Sunday; BSunday. 320 Beauregard St., 210-757-3607,barloretta.com

BARBARO $$ Italian/pizza (Monte Vista). The house-made cocktails at this eatery are the perfect complementtopizzasthatare anything but ordinary. From Benton’s bacon and carbonara to clams to hash browns,kale and honey, the mixoftoppingsonthese pies is originaland delectable. Salads andsandwiches fillout the menu. LFriday-Sunday; Ddaily; B Saturday-Sunday. 2720 McCullough Ave., 726-268-1780, barbarosanantonio.com

BATTALION $$-$$$ Italian (Southtown). This rustic Italianconcept is housedina 1920sfire station. The real star of the showisthe handmade pasta. DTuesday-Sunday. 604 S. AlamoSt., 210-816-0088, battalionsa.com

THEBIG BIB $ Barbecue (Austin Highway). Bring your appetite.Whether it’sabrisket or turkeybreastsandwich, or afamily platter with 5pounds of different barbecue meats,there is no such thing as asmall portion here. Favorite sides include the sweetpotato casserole and potato salad, and thepeach cobblerroutinely sellsout. L-DTuesday-Sunday. 104Lanark Drive, 210-654-8400, thebigbib.com

BIGA ON THE BANKS $$$ American (downtown) Bruce Audenled themarch towardlocally grown, seasonal gourmet dishes. Epicureans continue to praisethe flavors in every bite from this multiple James Beard Award-nominatedchef. From Hill Country venison to sticky toffee pudding, each meal is attentively servedand artistically plated Ddaily. 203 S. St. Mary’s St., 210-225-0722, biga.com

BLISS $$-$$$ American(Southtown). The ever-changing menu affirms alove of seasonal flavors and dedication to artisanal goods.A darling of Southtown, this contemporary American eatery focusesona creativeand delectable entree selection, as well as exquisite service. It’s relaxedelegance at its best. D Tuesday-Saturday.926 S. Presa St., 210-225-2547, foodisbliss.com

BOUDRO’S TEXAS BISTRO $$$ American (downtown) The RiverWalk restaurantis famous for its prickly pear margaritasand table-sideguacamole —both enhancedby riverside patio seating —but theeatery is a sure betfor morethan just happy hour. The kitchen delivers classic meat andseafood entreeswithSouth Texas flair. L-Ddaily. 421E Commerce St., 210-224-8484, boudros.com

BRINDLES AWESOME ICE CREAMS $ Dessert (North Central). This ice cream shop is known for combining flavorsyou wouldn’t normally put together, such as avocado and orange.Thisdessert haven has also mastered the classics, including vanilla made with Madagascar bourbon pure vanilla extract, chocolate and butter pecan.And in true Texas fashion, there’s ataco sundae. Open daily. 11255 Huebner Road, 210-641-5222

CAPPY’S RESTAURANT &BAR $$ American (Alamo Heights). When the weather is perfect for outdoor dining, Cappy’s is an ideal setting. Inside or out, you will find aclassic American bistro with aTexas twang, served through a menu of oak-grilledbeef,fresh seafood and salads L-D daily, BSaturday-Sunday.5011 Broadway, 210-828-9669, cappysrestaurant.com

CHRIS MADRID’S $ Burgers/Mexican (Beacon Hill). Legions of localssay it serves thebest burger in town. TheMacho Tostada burger,topped with refried beans and chips, now approaches legendary status. The restaurant reopened with updates in 2019 after theoriginaleaterywas damaged by afire. L-D daily.1900 Blanco Road, 210-735-3552, chrismadrids.com

CLEMENTINE $$ American (CastleHills). Chefs Johnand Elise Russ present a neighborhood eatery with Americanclassics thatare anything but boring. Select the Feed Me menu and let the chefs take you on atour of current, seasonal inspirations. The dessert menu shines; it includes must-try cardamom donuts with coffee ice cream. D Tuesday-Sunday. 2195 NW Military Highway, 210-503-5121, clementine-sa.com

THE COVE $ American(downtown). This institution pairs alaundromat and car wash next to abustling beer garden, but food is the real focus. Vegetarians can bite into the vegan bacon cheeseburgerwhile their carnivore companions chow down on grass-fedbeef and bison burgers. Four-legged friends are welcome. L-D Tuesday-Sunday. 606 W. Cypress St., 210-227-2683, thecove.us

CULLUM’S ATTA BOY $$ American(Monte Vista). The sister restaurant off the St. Mary’s Strip from Chris Cullum, nominated for Best Chef: Texas in the 2024James Beard Awards, is atribute to Cullum’s late father, jazz musician Jim Cullum.Find classics such as pancakes, eggs Benedict, steak and eggs, Champagne and caviar, escargot, burgers and more at this Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand restaurant B-L Wednesday-Sunday.111 Kings Court, 726-229-7301, cullumsattaboy.com

CURED $$ American(Pearl). James Beard Award-nominated chef SteveMcHugh restored the 109-year-old Pearl Brewing Co. building to itsoriginal glory. McHugh, who hails from Wisconsin and spent timeinNew Orleans, leadsaNew American concept here, complete with brews, cured meats and house-made (almost) everything. Ddaily,B Saturday-Sunday.306 Pearl Parkway, Suite 101, 210-314-3929, curedatpearl.com

DOUGH PIZZERIA NAPOLETANA$$ Italian/Pizza (Castle Hills, downtown). Offering more than “just” pizza, this hip trattoria transports diners to Naples with certified authentic pies, calzonesand more from Doug Horn’s wood-burning volcanic stone oven. The handmade mozzarella helps keep tables full, andwe promise the wait is worth it. L-D daily. 6989 Blanco Road,210-979-6565; 518S.Alamo St., 210-227-2900, doughpizzeria.com

DOWN ON GRAYSON $-$$ American (Pearl). The team behind Gruene Hall and Josephine Street Café combinedwhat we love most about their other venuesinto this eatery across from Pearl: relaxed outdoor seating, well-executed modern American fare, and a bar with plenty of brews, wine and cocktails to keep us returning to happy hour week after week. L-D daily.303 E. Grayson St., 830-248-9244, downongrayson.com

GREEN VEGETARIAN CUISINE$ Vegetarian (Northwest). This vegetarian hot spot is so good, meat eaters won’t miss athing. Order a salad chock-full of fresh veggies, or look to healthy concoctions in the form of comfort food. Try the fried (kosher) pickles or the Texas-size,dairy-free,egg-freecinnamon roll that weighs in at approximately 3pounds, a version of the famous recipe once served at the late Lulu’s Bakery &Cafe. L-D Sunday-Friday, BSunday.255 E. Basse Road, 210-320-5865, eatatgreen.com

GUENTHER HOUSE $$ Breakfast (Southtown). Breakfast is served all day amid art nouveau decor in the historic home of the Pioneer Flour Mills’ founding family. Featuring Pioneer and White Wings specialties at every turn, expect exemplary biscuits and gravy, light Belgian waffles, fluffy pancakes and a well-stockedpastry case. Lunch favors sandwiches, soups and salads. B-L Wednesday-Sunday. 205 E. Guenther St., 210-227-1061, guentherhouse.com

HANZO $ Bar (Dijon Heights). Inspired by izakayas, informal Japanese taverns, the space features nods to Japanese architecture, modern artwork and tapestries on the wall. The focus is the barmenu —alist of expertly crafted cocktails, fine wines, beer and traditional sake. The food menu includes sticky ribs, poke bowls and ramen Ddaily. 210-826-1488, 7701Broadway, Suite 124, hanzobar.com

HEARTHSTONEBAKERY CAFE $ Bakery/coffeehouse (Alamo Heights). More than abakery and cafe,Hearthstoneisa full-service restaurant offering awell-rounded menu. From gourmet sandwiches and paninis to pastriesand coffee,Hearthstone has it. The casual setting invites everyone to enjoy high qualityfood at areasonable price. B-L Monday-Saturday. 3920 Harry Wurzbach Road, 210-920-2600, hearthstonebakerycafe.com

THE HOPPY MONK$$ Bar (North Central). With dozens of beers in bottle andontap, you’ll have your pick of IPAs, amber ales, Belgian-style brews, lagers, bocks and seasonal flavors. Complementyour drink order with one of the restaurant’s specialty burgers —from the bacon jamand egg to the Blue Fox —ortry the Gochu I.P.A. wings. L Friday-Saturday, DTuesday-Sunday, Brunch Saturday-Sunday.1010N.Loop 1604 E., 210-545-3330, thehoppymonk.com

IL FORNO $$ Pizza (Southtown). When Michael Sohocki set out to open apizza place, he decidedhewouldn’t be satisfied with just any pizza oven. So he built his ownbrick oven to create crispy crustsonthe Naples-style pizza. The menu is rotating and includes details like house-cured meats, homemade mozzarella and vegetables picked from a garden outside. L-D Tuesday-Saturday. 122 Nogalitos St., 210-616-2198, ilfornosa.com

J-PRIME $$$ Steakhouse (Stone Oak). The sister restaurant of Chama Gaucha Brazilian Steakhouse, J-Prime adds atouch of South American flavor to the traditionalhigh-end steakhouse fare, offering dry and wet aged New York strips, rib-eyes and filet mignon. Meat is butchered in-house,aged 45 to 70 days and cooked in acustom-made parrilla grill that heats up to 1,200 degrees. Market fresh seafood include grilled sea bass and cold water lobster tail. Sides range from the traditional twice-baked potato to fried yucca Ddaily. 1401 N. Loop 1604 W., 210-764-1604, jprimesteakhouse.com

THE JERK SHACK $$ Caribbean (far West). The Michelin Guide Bib Gourmandrecommended restaurant from Chef Nicola Blaque, nominated for James Beard Best Chef Texas in 2023, features cuisine from the Jamaican native, from jerk chicken to oxtail and curry dishes. But don’t sleep on the Culinary Institute of America graduate’s fried chicken or standout mac and cheese; then check out her new sister restaurant, Freight Fried Chicken, at thePearl food hall. L-D daily. 10234 Texas 151, Suite 103, 210-776-7780, thejerkshacksatx.com

JOSEPHINE STREET $$ American (Pearl). This restaurant and barwas aneighborhood favorite long before Pearl wasthe cool place to be.And it hasremainedpopular thanks to the no-frills menu that includes comfort food favorites like anticuchos,chips and queso, along with beef, chicken and seafood entrees Also consider adding acocktailto your meal— the bar has an impressive list of whiskey offerings. L-D daily. 400 E. Josephine St., 210-224-6169, josephinestreet.com

KIMURA $$ Asian (downtown). This Japanese-inspired menu includes everything from house-made ramen in various broths to sushi and handmade noodles.You may have to wait for atable, but it’s well worth it. L-D Monday-Saturday. 1017 N. FloresSt., 210-444-0702, kimurasa.com

KUNG FU NOODLE $ Asian (Leon Valley). Noodles, dumplings, buns, repeat. Thatisthe simple philosophy at this authenticrestaurant, where the decor is as streamlined as the menu. Noodles of varying sizes are made in-house and served in bowls of brothwith pairings like pork, lamb and beef. With items low in price and large in portion, Kung Fu Noodle is astellar value. L-D Tuesday-Sunday. 6733 Bandera Road, 210-451-5586

LA FOGATA $$ Mexican(NorthCentral, Northwest). Classic Mexican and Tex-Mex fare —traditional combo plates, nachos, quesadillas, enchiladas and seafood dishes make up La Fogata’s menu. Additionaldraws include an extensive and tasty dessert cache, colorful patio dining and an impressivelineup of beersand margaritas from the cantina. L-D daily. 2427 Vance Jackson Road, 210-340-1337; 22211 I-10,210-698-9700, lafogata.com

LIBERTYBAR $$ Bar/American(Southtown). Housed in the renovatedhistoric St. Scholastica ConventonSouth AlamoStreet, it’s more straightforward than in its former tilted locale. Not to worry, the menu twistsof this deliciously unpretentious, funky restaurant-bar remain true. B-L-D daily. 1111S Alamo St., 210-264-6472, liberty-bar.com

LITTLE DEATH $ Wine Bar (Tobin Hill). Chad Carey, the restaurant entrepreneur behind Chisme, Hot Joy and Barbaro, opened this wine bar on the St. Mary’s Strip inside aformer Pierce Oil Co. gas station, now covered in colorful murals. Expect unconventional wines

you won’t find at the grocery store, including several natural varieties. Instead of soft tunes and sommeliers,Carey says to expect disco tunes and alaid-back vibe. Open daily. 2327 N. St. Mary’s St., 210-264-6472

MAGNOLIA PANCAKE HAUS $ Breakfast (MedicalCenter, North Central, Cibolo). The namemay urge you to order thepancakes, and there arecertainly plenty, including original recipe, bananas Fosterand bacon pancakes. Don’t overlook the overstuffed omelets or the smoked turkeyhash. B-L daily. 10333 Huebner Road, 2070 N. Loop 1604,17730 I-35 N. Cibolo, 210-496-0828, magnoliapancakehaus.com

MAVERICK $$-$$$ American (Southtown). The Texas-inspired menu includes large and small platesmeant for easy sharing. LFriday, D Monday-Sunday,BSaturday-Sunday. 710 S. St Mary’s St., 210-973-6050, mavericktexas.com

MAX &LOUIE’S NEW YORK DINER $-$$ American(NorthCentral). RestaurateurDrew Glick is behind thisspot that celebrates New York diner fare. The all-day menu includes

classics like pastrami sandwiches,burgers and along list of comforting desserts, while the breakfast menu offers classicdiner dishes like omelets, pancakes andNew York bagels. The diner also hasafullbar. B-L-D daily.226 W. Bitters Road, 210-483-7600, maxandlouiesdiner.com

MI TIERRA RESTAURANT AND BAKERY $$ Mexican (downtown). Many consider this landmark restaurant a“must see” for its flamboyant decor, enormous bakery case and strolling mariachi bands. Yet the food is still the draw, thanks to handmade tamales and sizzling fajita platters. B-L-Ddaily. 218Produce Row, 210-225-1262, mitierracafe.com

MIXTLI $$$ Mexican (Southtown). Tradition is at the core of what co-chefsand -owners Diego Galicia and Rico Torres are honoring. The two chefs (who have been recognized with astar by the Michelin Guide and nominated multiple times by James Beard Awards)turn to a different Mexican state every 45 days for inspiration,ingredientsand technique Reservationsare requiredand dinnerisserved at acommunal12-seat table. D Tuesday-Saturday. 812 S. Alamo St., Suite 103, 210-338-0746, restaurantmixtli.com

MR. JUICY $$$ American(North). Andrew Weissman’s burgerjoint serves single or doublepatty-beefburgers with house-made poppy seed buns. Double-friedfrench fries are amust-orderside. Make it afull meal withone of avariety of rich milkshakes. L-D Tuesday-Sunday.210-994-9838; 3315 San Pedro Ave. and2321NWMilitary Drive

NOLABRUNCH &BEIGNETS $-$$ American (downtown). Chef PieterSypesteyn continues his homage to his native New Orleans withthis weekday brunch spot. As the namesuggests, the bright cafe focusesondishes that bridge breakfast and lunch, as well as the doughnuts that define the Crescent City. B Wednesday-Sunday. 210-255-8842, 1101 Broadway, Suite 120; eatatnola.com

NONNA OSTERIA $$ Italian (downtown). This Italian eatery shares half of the restaurant space at the Fairmount Hotelwith Silo Prime. The menu is craftedbynativeItalian Luca Della Casa, a“Food Network Star” runner-up. Pair your entrée with aglass or bottle of Italian wine from the extensive list. DMonday-Saturday 401S.Alamo St., 210-224-8800, nonnasa.com

PAESANOS $$-$$$ Italian/pizza (Alamo Heights, downtown,Shavano Park). Decadent Shrimp Paesano has been drawing crowds for more than 40 years. With its silky mixture of

butter, lemon and garlic, the dish morphs easily from starter to entree. Big platters of other consistent savories continue to draw fans. L-D daily. Multiple locations, paesanos.com

PALOMA BLANCA MEXICAN CUISINE $$ Mexican (Alamo Heights). The trendy upscale restaurant in the heart of Alamo Heights still delivers somedown-home Tex-Mex along with interior Mexican specialties andacrowd-luring bar. Original artwork throughoutcompletes the scene, as does the well-appointed patio. L-D daily, Brunch Saturday-Sunday. 5800 Broadway, 210-822-6151, palomablanca.net

SICHUAN CUISINE$$ Asian (Castle Hills). Authenticity is the signature of this Castle Hills gem. The exotic menu that showcases the kitchen’s talent and includes veggie-spiked platters, Chengdu dumplings, spicy chicken, tea-smokedduck and more. There’splenty of American Chinese favorites, too. L-D daily. 7863 Callaghan Road, 210-525-8028, sichuansa.com

B: Breakfast; L: Lunch; D: Dinner Restaurants are updated as space allows. Contact advertising@sanantoniomag.com to sponsor your restaurantlisting

One Day.Big Impact.

back at twodecades of San Antonioculture.

Together,we’ll toasttothe past twenty years—andthe next twenty stilltocome.

O3 2

3M n

RELEASEPARTYINPHOTOS

San Antonio Magazinecelebrated the issue release of Mi Casa, ourannualhomeand design special issue, in June at TheParkeronE.Mulberry. Impeccably designed by HGTVhost and business owner Kim Wolfe, thepropertytransported attendeestoanothertime. Wolfe and her personal homerenovation were featured on the Mi Casa cover.

The fun eveningincluded tiki-style drinks by BarLoretta andlight tropicalbites by Chef Kaius, as well as synchronized swimmers.

Avery specialthank youtoour sponsorsThe Parker on E. Mulberry, KeithZars Pools, Whitecap NorthPadre Island and NorthParkVolkswagen.

BY DEBORAH MARTIN

Thegallery:

Exhibit is throughout San Antonio. Visit christuschildrensfoundation. org/cowparade for all of the locations.

Thework:

CowParadeSan Antonio by various artists

THE COWPARADE IS BACK!

Theinternationalpublicartproject,whichlaststampededacrossthecityin2003,wasrevivedearlier this year.The fiberglass herd of fancifully paintedbovines canbefound in well-trafficked spotsall over town,including AlamoPlaza,the SanPedro Creek CulturePark, SanAntonio International Airport, Pearl, theShops at La Canteraand NorthStarMall, to name just afew not-quite-grazingsites.

Amongthe must-sees areGarySweeney’s “CanaryIslands Cow,”which evokes antiquemapsand canbe foundinfront of theBriscoe WesternArt Museum;AlyciaMurtagh’s playful“CowPie,” in whichthe cow appearstobeencasedinblueberrypieandwhichcanbefoundatNorthStarMall;and“GoodMOOd,”Allison Gregory’sbejeweled beauty,which is part of asmall herd at theairport

YnezEsqueda’s“BurnishedWave,”whichhasabronzebodyandbluelegssuggestiveoftheriver,standsin frontofthe Alamo. “Burnished Wave”and allthe rest of thecowswill be auctionedoff in September, with proceedsbenefitingChristusChildren’sFoundation. Most will be sold online, but15will be sold at alive auctionduringa gala Sept.25.

Thinking beyond injurytreatment to injuryprevention.

We believe in afuturewherefewerchildren areinjured. That’swhy,asthe only LevelIPediatric Trauma Center in South Texas, we provide arange of safety programs, including resourcestohelp teens avoid distractions on the road. Activelypreventing childhood injuries is howwe’rethinking beyond justtreatment. Discoverhow at ThinkingBeyond.net.