Letter From the Editor

One can only wonder how different San Antonio might be if the four women interviewed for our feature story, Pillars of the Community, had not been such vital forces for change here.

Legendary caterer Rosemary Kowalski has served many of the luminaries who have visited the city and has seen tastes in food evolve over the years. Edith McAllister has been involved in such efforts as the preservation of the old Ursuline convent — now the Southwest School of Art & Craft — and the development of UTSA. Naoko Shirane was instrumental in bringing Toyota to San Antonio and in establishing our sister city agreement with Kumamoto, Japan. Patsy Steves, a longtime supporter of the arts, is the force behind the Museum of Art’s annual fundraiser, Bazar Sábado.

Our Profile, Abigail Kampmann, also has deep roots in San Antonio. Like her father, she started out as a lawyer and, like him, she left the profession to manage the family’s luxury car dealerships in Texas and Tennessee.

Environments features the Bel Meade home of Robin Black and Fred Williams, designer and architect, which they have remodeled to become their “casa finale.” They followed principles of sustainability in creating a home that meets ADA requirements for independent living.

Fashion spotlights destination clothing — items you’d pack for an exciting vacation but would also enjoy wearing at home. Shopping provides hints for great Mother’s Day and Father’s Day gifts.

Focus on Food praises fresh herbs and the appeal they add to food. In Dining, read about the briny seafood and infused drinks that have made Watermark Grill popular with diners.

Artbeat introduces Karen Barbee Adkisson, known as San Antonio’s first lady of Middle Eastern dance, who both performs and teaches belly dancing. Our Role Model, Jenny Forks, has turned the craft of beading into a successful business.

Dollars & Sense clues you in to what you need to know if you are called in for a tax audit. Mommy Matters explores the joys of motherhood at 40, and Beauty and Fitness leads you on a fascinating tour of the history of (and attitudes toward) hair.

Health and Fitness suggests four commonsense rules that make losing weight easier.

Preview summer events for adults and children alike in Arts & Culture, and review the social season in Scene Around Town.

Please take time for our special sections, from choices in senior living, to women in medicine, to the annual Tour de Cure for Diabetes. And read about the Alamo Asian American Chamber of Commerce, which is committed to education.

Remember, you can visit our Web site, www.sawoman.com, for more information on these and other topics. BEVERLY PURCELL-GUERRA , EDITOR