Letter from the Editor: November/December 2011

The approaching holidays signal that it’s time to be mindful of others, to think and act in caring ways. 

Our Profile subject, Dr. Paromita Datta, knew at an early age that she liked being with people and helping them. Eventually this instinct led the native of West Bengal, India, to medical school in Calcutta and finally to the United States, where she became board certified in both internal medicine and oncology. Today, she is medical director of the Aurora Breast Center of San Antonio and an ardent advocate for her cancer patients.

Role Model Tammy Baird also exemplifies an unselfish life. She left behind a successful career as a hotel executive to work for Daily Bread Ministries, and today she feels she is exactly where she should be. 

Our Feature introduces several of the women who conduct estate sales throughout our community. They’re all about recycling, in the best sense of the word: Individuals who are downsizing can sell what they no longer need, and others, especially those just starting out, have access to great bargains. Read about Joy Curnutt and Peggy Calhoun of Professional Estate Sales, LLC; Marcia Harris of Marcia Harris Antiques & Estate Sales, LLC; June Hayes of June Hayes and Associates; and certified appraiser Anne Alexander.

Environments takes you on a tour of a house in Di Lusso Villas at Cordillera Ranch that is a home away from home for a couple from Waxahachie. Their business keeps them on the road, and they value their “down” time here.   

As the season of holiday parties grows near, Fashion focuses on glamorous attire. Look for sparkle and shine, brilliant sequins, gleaming satins and elegant accessories that add up to entrance-making drama.

Beauty & Fitness describes the latest trends in makeup and attire and offers tips on successful grazing during a season of heavy hors d’oeuvres. Check the Women’s Wellness section for ideas on avoiding holiday stress, and read Dollars & Sense for insight on the pros and cons of buying American. ShopSA is full of ideas for unusual gifts that are sure to please. 

Focus on Food gives chefs’ recipes for revving up traditional holiday meals, while Wine helps you choose reds or whites to accompany the foods you’ll serve. Dining reviews Fleming’s, where the steaks are outstanding and happy hour offers appealing  drinks and appetizers.   

In Women in Business you’ll meet four San Antonio women who design jewelry that is sold nationally — Susan Shaw, Claudia Lobão, Carroll Dorsey Walker of Bejewel and Elizabeth Herff of Hazel Smyth. ArtBeat spotlights Zelime Matthews, whose whimsical pins are a San Antonio tradition, and who also creates bold and colorful paintings.

Mommy Matters takes a look at contentment — achieving it and helping our children find it. Health Matters sheds light on back pain; Scene Around Town looks back on fall parties and fundraisers; and Arts and Culture reminds us of the many outstanding events occurring before the end of the year. 

Be sure to see the updated Women’s Business Directory (www.sawomanconnect.com), with contact information on businesses owned by, or catering to, women. Also, look for us on Facebook and follow us on our Twitter.

As SAN ANTONIO WOMAN celebrates its ninth anniversary, we wish you a happy and blessed holiday season.

 

Beverly Purcell-Guerra
-Editor