San Antonio, TX Real Estate - Judi Morgan

FIESTA 2009 - San Antonio, TX - The Battle of Flowers Parade

Judi Morgan, San Antonio, TX Real Estate (Realty Executives Alamo) — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 23:49:59 -0500

San Antonio, TX is in the middle of celebrating FIESTA! Well, actually, we're on the downhill side FIESTA and tomorrow is Battle of Flowers Day. How do we celebrate -- with a parade of course. The first Battle of Flowers Parade was held in 1891 to honor the heroes of the battle of The Alamo and San Jacinto. The first parade had horse-drawn carriage and bicycles decorated with fresh flowers and the participants pelted each other with flowers. The parade has been held every year since 1891 with the exception of 1918 (World War I) and 1942 thru 1945 (World War II).

The Woman's Club of San Antonio is one organization that participates in The Battle of Flowers Parade. Each year 3 members are chosen (by the club President) to ride in the parade. The past 8 or so years, members have ridden in a Red, 1928 Ford Touring Car. This year is no exception -- the car was at The Woodward House (home to The Woman's Club) today undergoing it's transformation.

This is what the car looked like when "she" arrived at The Woodward House about 10:00 AM this morning.

This is what the car looks like tonight and during the Parade tomorrow.

Isn't "she" beautiful? All dressed up and ready to be in The Battle of Flowers Parade. :) Oh, I almost forgot the best part. I get to ride in this car in The Battle of Flowers Parade! I'm so excited, I probably won't be able to sleep tonight. We three ladies have coordinated our outfits for the day to go with the theme assigned our "float" -- "Texas Wildflowers". My hat is all decorated and ready -- a friend, Laura Sistrunk, decorated it for me this morning while I took care of some things at the Clubhouse.

Before. . .

After. . . :) Isn't it beautiful?!?

You'll be able to watch The Battle of Flowers Parade LIVE right here -- it'll be on from 1:00 to 4:00 PM tomorrow, Friday, April 24th -- which is Battle of Flowers Day. Oh, we're at the end of the parade -- yep, 3rd from the end (of the parade).

FIESTA 2009 - San Antonio, TX - The Official FIESTA Flower Show

Judi Morgan, San Antonio, TX Real Estate (Realty Executives Alamo) — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 22:37:58 -0500

The Woman's Club of San Antonio's Annual Official FIESTA Flower Show was held at The Woodward House (home to The Woman's Club) on Wednesday, April 22nd and Thursday, April 23rd.

Here are some photos of the Ribbon Cutting and some of the beautiful floral arrangements entered in the Flower Show.

This one is entitled, "Designing Women" (The TV Show)

This one is entitled, "Dallas" (the TV Show)

I didn't get the name of this one -- but isn't it beautiful. :)

This one is entitled, "The Bold and The Beautiful". (yes, like the soap opera.

This one is entitled, "Gone With The Wind".

FIESTA 2009 - San Antonio, TX

Judi Morgan, San Antonio, TX Real Estate (Realty Executives Alamo) — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 01:09:54 -0500

Ahhhh, FIESTA in San Antonio, TX -- there's nothing like it! Live here for a few years, and you can't help but get caught up in the fun and the history of FIESTA.

I'm a member of The Woman's Club of San Antonio -- which is a Charter Member of the San Antonio FIESTA Commission. Our Club hosts several FIESTA Events every year. Back in October of 2008, a committee was named to design our Annual FIESTA Pins & Medals. I was fortunate enough to be chosen to be on the committee and was chairman of the committee. We had a short meeting and decided to use a sculpture created by a former member of our club, Waldine Tauch. We placed the sculpture in front of a floral arrangement of white roses (our Club flower) and took pictures at different angles. I then, emailed the pictures to a graphic artist who created the initial design from the photos and emailed it back to me. After several meetings and changes, we had our final design which I presented to the Woman's Club Board of Directors for approval before placing the order.

We started with this. . .

Here's the 2009 FIESTA Pin/Medal for The Woman's Club of San Antonio. . .

Waldine was born in Schulenburg, Texas on January 28, 1892, her father was a photographer. The family moved to a ranch in Menard County and their home was a stop for the stage hack, or rental carriage. Her uncle supplied fresh horses and her mother cooked breakfast for the travelers. Waldine's carvings were displayed on a shelf around the dining room. Two travelers were so impressed with her work they influenced the family to move to Brady so the budding sculptor could have an artistic education. Mrs. F. W. Henderson, who had induced the family to move, wrote Pompeo Coppini about taking a new student. He declined. "No! Girls are not good pupils. They work one or two years, then quit. They get married. I lose all my labor." Mrs. Henderson persisted and eventually sent him a piece of Tauch's work-small enough to be easily mailed, yet intricate enough to be impressive. When Coppini received the box, opened it, pulled out the padding, and found still another box full of padding, he thought at first that a trick had been played upon him. But when he finally reached the tiny piece--depicting Little Red Riding Hood with her basket and the wolf-he accepted her immediately. Coppini invited her to live in the spacious home he and his wife had in San Antonio. Waldine came to town on June 10, 1910, just a few weeks before she graduated from high school. She feared that a postponement might change Coppini's mind. She made a promise to her mentor that she would give up marriage and family so she could give her complete devotion to her creative work-a promise she never broke. Waldine never regretted her promise, one that brought her to recognition as an artist of national stature.

The Coppinis moved to New York in 1922 and Tauch joined them there the next year. She created a statue of the four LeSueur Smith children in Pelham Manor. The late Mrs. Eli Hertzberg traveled from San Antonio to New York to pose for a bust by Tauch. The piece is located in the Tuesday Musical Club building.

Twelve years later, the Coppinis and Tauch moved back to San Antonio because of the Texas Centennial and the great amount of work they received from it.

She became an internationally known sculptor of life-size statues such as Gen. Douglas MacArthur at Howard Payne U., Moses Austin in San Antonio's City Hall Square, the Texas Ranger of Today-now in downtown Dallas. Waldine lived to be 94; she was a Club member until her stroke in October 1985. Her biography is found in From Chalk to Bronze by Alice Hutson in 1978.

FIESTA San Antonio, TX - 2009!!!

Judi Morgan, San Antonio, TX Real Estate (Realty Executives Alamo) — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 21:27:40 -0500

It's getting close, you can feel the excitement all over San Antonio as 101 Community Organizations prepare for FIESTA SAN ANTONIO 2009! The members of The Woman's Club of San Antonio are busy putting the finishing touches on their Official FIESTA Events and participation in the FIESTA Parades.

The Woman's Club's FIESTA Pins & Medals were designed in 2008 by a committee, which I chaired! They are now officially for sale. You can contact The Woman's Club directly, contact me or you can purchase them at the FIESTA Store on Broadway.

The Fiesta Teen Queen has been selected and has already begun attending pre-FIESTA Events. The FIESTA Queens' Reception is scheduled for Thursday, March 26, 2009, at The Woodward House (by invitation only). We spent the day today preparing food and decorating the house -- tomorrow we add the finishing touches and will open the doors to welcome the Queens of FIESTA to a beautiful reception...be watching for photos.

The FIESTA Teen Queen Coronation is scheduled for Sunday, April 19, 2009, at the San Pedro Playhouse. This is a FREE FIESTA Event - 2:30 to 5:00 PM.

Plans for The Woman's Club of San Antonio's Annual FIESTA Luncheon, Hat Contest & Style Show, scheduled for Tuesday, April 21^st at the Rivercenter Marriott on Bowie, are being finalized. Many Woman's Club Members as well as members of the community are busy designing their FIESTA Hats to enter the FIESTA Hat Contest -- the ladies take this hat contest very seriously and coordinate their entire outfit for the FIESTA Luncheon, Hat Contest & Style Show around their FIESTA Hat. Julie Jordan and I are Co-Chairing the Hat Contest - it's going to be soooo much fun!!! (I'm chairing the Hat Contest this year!) Make your reservations now and design your hat for the contest! Seats are $55 and $75.

On Wednesday, April 22^nd and Thursday, April 23^rd, The Woman's Club will open the doors of The Woodward House to the public once more for The Official FIESTA Flower Show. Floral arrangements, table settings and horticultural exhibits are judged and ribbons are awarded. Contact the Clubhouse to get the rules and list of themes and sign up to design a beautiful floral arrangement or enter the Horticultural Division of the Flower Show. This is a FREE FIESTA EVENT.

The FIESTA Teen Queen & Teen Princesses, members of the court and members of The Woman's Club participate in the FIESTA Parades too. The FIESTA Teen Queen, Teen Princess and members of the court will be on one of the River Barge Floats in The Texas Cavalier's River Parade on Monday, April 20^th. They'll also participate in the Pilgrimage to the Alamo on Monday, April 20th and be on one of the floats in the King William Parade on Saturday, April 25th. Three Members of The Woman's Club will be chosen to represent The Woman's Club in The Battle of Flowers Parade on Friday, April 24th - I am so excited to have been asked to ride in one of the Vintage Cars in the Battle of Flowers Parade!!!

For more information about The Woman's Club of San Antonio's FIESTA 2009 Events, contact The Woodward House at 210-732-4811.

Beautiful Sunrise in Helotes, TX

Judi Morgan, San Antonio, TX Real Estate (Realty Executives Alamo) — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 20:59:35 -0500

I got up early one morning a few weeks ago and noticed this beautiful view out of my breakfast room window. I grabbed my camera and ran outside! I just couldn't pass this beautiful opportunity up -- thought I'd share it you all. :)

Remembering the Alamo – Annual Memorial Service

Judi Morgan, San Antonio, TX Real Estate (Realty Executives Alamo) — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 22:29:53 -0600

Today is the 137^th Anniversary of the fall of the Alamo. There was a re-enactment of the battle this morning at 6:00 AM. There are other FREE Events commemorating the Battle throughout the weekend.

I had the honor of attending an "invitation only" event this afternoon. As a member of The Woman's Club of San Antonio, I was able to attend the Annual Memorial Service for the Heroes of the Alamo this afternoon at 2:30 pm along with other members of our Club.

I've been to the Alamo many times, always with friends or family wanting to visit when they were here. I always enjoy my visit there and it never fails that I learn something new about the buildings that remain standing or about the battle. I've always been fascinated by the battle and how 189 men could hold off thousands for 12 days before finally being overtaken by them during a pre-dawn assault.

Today, we entered The Alamo and were ushered to our seats. I was able to sit and look around at the inside of the building, remembering things I'd learned on previous tours and things I've learned in reading about the battle. My favorite part of the ceremony was the Roll Call of States and Nations - where the flags of each State of the Union and Country representing the birthplace of each of these men were presented - Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, Denmark, England, Germany, Ireland, and Wales.

If you live in the San Antonio, TX area and haven't visited The Alamo or haven't been there recently, this is a great weekend to visit and learn a little Texas and American History. There are events scheduled all weekend and it's going to be another beautiful Texas weekend, why not take advantage of it.

Kathy Littlefield (1st VP of The Woman's Club of SA, Hannah Still, FIESTA Teen Queen representing The Woman's Club of San Antonio, and Rose Hoelscher (President of The Woman's Club of San Antonio).

Remembering the The Alamo

Judi Morgan, San Antonio, TX Real Estate (Realty Executives Alamo) — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 23:44:09 -0600

It was February 23, 1836, when General Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna and his army caught the defenders of the Alamo by surprise. The Texians and Tejanos had prepared to defend the Alamo together and were undaunted. Commander of the Alamo, William B. Travis sent couriers out to communities in Texas with pleas for help -- only one of the couriers was successful in bringing back help. Charles Despallier, a 24 year old originally from Louisiana, left the Alamo sometime around February 25, 1836, and returned with the 36 men from the Gonzales Ranging Company of Mounted Volunteers on March 1, 1836. Despallier died in the battle at the Alamo on March 6, 1836.

The final assault of the 13 day siege came before daybreak on March 6, 1836, as the Mexican soldiers appeared out of the darkness and headed toward the walls of the Alamo. The defenders were able to beat back several attacks. The Mexicans regrouped and scaled the walls and rushed into the compound. They captured a cannon and aimed it at the Long Barrack and church and blasted open the barricaded doors. By sunrise, Santa Anna was able to enter the Alamo compound to survey the damage.

Have you ever wondered about those brave men who gave up their lives fighting for Texas to be free and independent? You can read about them here.

Tomorrow is the 173^rd Anniversary of the Fall of the Alamo. Over the next weekend and through the month of March there are Memorial Events planned at the Alamo, of the 7 events, 5 of them are FREE and Open to the Public.

MARDI GRAS IN SAN ANTONIO, TX. . .

Judi Morgan, San Antonio, TX Real Estate (Realty Executives Alamo) — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 12:28:09 -0600

Just because you're in San Antonio, TX and not in New Orleans, LA (NOLA) doesn't mean you don't have an opportunity to celebrate Mardi Gras.

I love Mardi Gras -- the colors (purple, green & gold), the music, the festivities. Yep, I decorate my house for Mardi Gras -- but then, I am originally from Louisiana so it makes sense, right. I can't always get back to Louisiana to enjoy the Mardi Gras Parties and Parades so I bring Mardi Gras to San Antonio.

I've been a member of The Woman's Club of San Antonio since I moved here 12 years ago (1997). We've had a couple of Mardi Gras Parties at the club during that time. This year we had another one and I had the privilege of helping plan the event and even in preparing the food we served for this year's Mardi Gras Party. I also loaned them all of my Mardi Gras decorations and we had a great time decorating The Woodward House. The Party was Saturday, February 21, 2009 at The Woodward House on San Pedro.

Our Menu included:

Assorted Appetizers (prepared by members)

Mixed Green Salad w/assorted Dressings

Jambalaya (chicken, pork & sausage)

Shrimp Etouffee (over Rice)

Red Beans & Rice

French Bread & Alligator Bread

Desserts

Bread Pudding w/Whiskey Sauce

King Cake

Pecan Bars

Bourbon Balls

Pecan Pralines

We began the evening by greeting our guests with Mardi Gras Beads as they arrived -- I had ordered plenty to use for decorations and to share with our guests. We had a wonderful Jazz Quartet playing downstairs during the cocktail hour and while we enjoyed the fabulous food prepared by members of the club.

After dinner, we moved upstairs, to the Ballroom, where we had set up the Dessert Tables along with another table for the Coffee, Hurricane Punch, and Wine. The Jazz Quartet continued to play as members and guests danced, bid on the Silent Auction Gift Baskets prepared by the Club's Round Tables and enjoyed the Desserts.

One of the highlights of the evening was when the Quartet started playing "When the Saint's Come Marching In"!!!! I just happened to be standing up talking to a group of guests when the music started -- I remember "moving to the music" and then . . . there was a line of people behind me and we were dancing around the ballroom!!! (I don't know if anyone got pictures of this -- it was soooo much fun!) :)

Everyone has been talking about the Mardi Gras Party all week!!! The husbands of our members were coming up to us at the end of the evening, asking us to have another Mardi Gras Party next year!! It's already on the calendar! :)

LAISSEZ LES BONS TEMPS ROULER!!!

(I'm sorry I don't have pictures of the Party to share with you all. My camera decided to quit working when we were leaving the house for the party. :( I could not get the battery to recharge or turn the camera on. :) Some of our members had their cameras and lots of photos were taken. I've put out a request for pictures to be emailed to me. If I get some, I'll add them to this post.)

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

When buying or selling a home in North Central, North East or North West San Antonio, TX, you deserve local expertise and advice. Judi Morgan provides full time, professional real estate services to buyers, sellers, corporate and military transferees in San Antonio, Stone Oak, Canyon Springs, Shavano and Shavano Park, Castle Hills, Rogers Ranch, Helotes, Sonoma Ranch, Alamo Ranch, Red Bird Ranch, The Dominion, Leon Valley and more.

San Antonio Livestock Show & Rodeo - 13th Annual BBQ Cook-Off & Concert

Judi Morgan, San Antonio, TX Real Estate (Realty Executives Alamo) — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 01:53:34 -0600

Do you like BBQ? Why not attend the 13^th Annual BBQ Cook-off & Concert? This event will be held in the parking lot of Six Flags Fiesta Texas on Saturday, January 31, 2009. Gates open to the public at 10:00 am until midnight. Admission is $12 for adults - 12 and under are free. Active Military Free with your Military ID - NO PETS are allowed and NO the Park will NOT be open. Pre-sale tickets are $8 and can be purchased at the San Antonio Stock Show Rodeo box office. General Public Parking is FREE.

Over 200 teams will be competing - there will be vendor booths and free Bar-B-Que plates as well as Live Music throughout the day...

Scott Wiggins Band at Noon

Jason Allen at 1:15 p.m.

The "Bad Boyz Olympics" at 2:30 p.m.

Zach Walther and The Cronkites at 4:30 p.m.

Aaron Watson (the opening act) at 8:00 p.m.

Mark Chestnutt at approximately 10:00 p.m.

Judging for the Bar-B-Que Cook-off will take place from 11:00 a.m. til 5:30 p.m. - winners will be announced at the Judging area.

For more information, contact http://www.sarodeo.com/annual/2009_bbq_cookoff.html or 210-827-7988.

____________________________________________________________________________________

San Antonio Livestock Show & Rodeo - Cowboy Golf Classic

Judi Morgan, San Antonio, TX Real Estate (Realty Executives Alamo) — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 01:33:36 -0600

This is the 3^rd of a Series of Posts about the Annual San Antonio Livestock Show & Rodeo.

Hey Golfers, here's a great way to enjoy a day of Golf and help raise money for the Justin Cowboy Crisis Fund. The fund provides financial support to cowboys injured while participating in a professional rodeo.

The 2009 Cowboy Golf Classic will be held at:

The Republic Golf Club

4226 Southeast Military Drive

Tuesday, February 17, 2009.

Check-In begins at 7:30 a.m.

Entry Fee is $125/per person

Lunch included

2009 Confirmed Rodeo Contestants Play Free

For more information on registration or sponsorship contact:

Michael J. Cotugno at (210) 825-2285 or George Gaiser, Jr. at (210) 889-0118

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

San Antonio Livestock Show & Rodeo – Longhorn Cattle Drive

Judi Morgan, San Antonio, TX Real Estate (Realty Executives Alamo) — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 01:00:14 -0600

Have you ever seen a real Texas Longhorn Cattle Drive??? I haven't! For those of us who have never had the opportunity to experience one close up and personal - we have that opportunity this weekend - as spectators - my kind of cattle drive!

Just like the "old pioneer" days, cowboys will "drive" a herd of Texas Longhorns right through the heart of San Antonio, where only trails existed 100 years ago. I'd really love to get downtown to see this event.

The Cattle Drive begins at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January, 31, 2009, cowboys will guide the cattle from Houston Street (from Christus Santa Rosa Hospital/I-35) all the way to The Alamo!

It's a FREE Event, so round up the family and friends and head to downtown San Antonio to enjoy it! Don't forget your camera!!!

I don't think I'll be able to get downtown for the Cattle Drive, so if you go and take pictures, come back to my post and post your pictures to share with everyone!!!

For more information about the Cattle Drive call 210-225-5851.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

San Antonio Livestock Show & Rodeo - 4th Annual Stock Show Stampede...

Judi Morgan, San Antonio, TX Real Estate (Realty Executives Alamo) — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 23:03:52 -0600

This the second of a series of posts about the Annual San Antonio Livestock Show & Rodeo running from February 5 thru February 22, 2009 at the AT&T Center.

The 4^th Annual Stock Show Stampede will be held on Saturday, Feburary 7, 2009 - it's not what you're thinking - it's not a cattle stampede through downtown San Antonio! Well, it IS a stampede of sorts - a human stampede??? It's a 4 mile run and 1.6 mile walk. J

Start Times

8:00 a.m. for the 4 Mile Run

8:00 a.m. for the 1.6 Mile Walk

Start: Rodeo Satellite Parking Lot on Gembler Road

Finish: Family Fair area of Rodeo Grounds

ENTRY FEE (NON-REFUNDABLE0

Before January 24, 2009..........$20.00

January 25 to Race Day...............$30.00

REGISTRATION

On-line: Deadline February 1, 2009 at www.sarodeo.com/annual/stock_show_stampede.html

By Mail: Deadline January 24, 2009 -- P.O. Box 200230 -- San Antonio, TX 78220

Makes checks payable to S.A.L.E. - Stampede

Late Registration: February 2 - 6, 2009 at Roger Soler's Sports -- 2589 Jackson Keller, San Antonio, TX

On Race Day: Rodeo Satellite Parking Lot on Gembler Road at 7:00 A.M.

PACKET/RACE NUMBER PICK-UP

Wed. - Fri., February 4 - 6, 2009 at Roger Soler's Sports -- 2589 Jackson Keller -- San Antonio, TX

11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Or 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

On Race Day: February 7, 2009 -- Rodeo Satellite Parking Lot on Gembler Road at 7:00 A.M.

_______________________________________________________________

It's time for the Annual San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo!

Judi Morgan, San Antonio, TX Real Estate (Realty Executives Alamo) — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 21:53:24 -0600

Here's a little history about the Livestock Show & Rodeo...

In the 1940's, after years of San Antonio not having sufficient or adequate facilities to host the many fairs and expositions being held in the city; Mr. Joe Freeman began organizing volunteers to raise money to build a "multi-purpose coliseum" to hold the many fairs, expositions and specifically a livestock exposition for the Youth of Texas. In January of 1948 construction of the Joe and Harry Freeman Coliseum began - it was completed in September of the same year and was opened to the public.

The first Annual San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo was held on February 17, 1950 at the Coliseum and was held there every year until February of 2003, when the Livestock Show & Rodeo was moved to the newly built, state of the art SBC Center located right next door.

In 1984, the San Antonio Livestock Exposition Executive Committee (SALE) began to think about encouraging 4-H and FFA high school students interested in the agricultural industry to major in agricultural-related studies in college. In 1984, they started the SALE Scholarship Fund awarding 15, four-year scholarships to students entering Texas colleges in the fall of the same year. To date, the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo's commitment to education exceeds over $87 million. In 2008, $8.5 million was committed in the form of scholarships, grants, endowments, auction, calf scramble program and show premiums paid to youth.

Many hours of hard work by committed SALE volunteers make the San Antonio Livestock Show & Rodeo one of the largest and most prestigious events in the city with over 1 million visitors entering the grounds each year.

The dates of this year's Livestock Show & Rodeo are February 5 through Feb. 22, 2009. There are some events going on already - in preparation for the Livestock Show & Rodeo.

The Texas Longhorn Cattle Drive will be held on Saturday, January 31, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. You'll feel like you went back 100 years to the days when the streets of San Antonio were only trails. Cowboys will guide a herd of Texas Longhorns right through the heart of San Antonio (down Houston Street from Christus Santa Rosa Hospital /I-35 to the Alamo!!! This is a free event - bring the family and don't forget your camera. For more information call 210-225-5851. See you there!!!

_____________________________________________________________________________________

ARE YOU GOING TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE FIRST-TIME HOME BUYER TAX CREDIT?

Judi Morgan, San Antonio, TX Real Estate (Realty Executives Alamo) — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 22:52:11 -0600

What First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit you ask??? The Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 provides a $7,500 tax credit for qualified first-time home buyers. It also includes other provisions that help prevent foreclosures, reinvigorate the housing market and strengthen the economy.

Here's the First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit at a glance:

The Tax Credit is available for First-Time Buyers only.
The maximum credit amount is $7,500.
It is available for homes purchased on or after April 9, 2008 and before July 1, 2009. (It expires June 30, 2009).
Single taxpayers with incomes up to $75,000 and married couples with incomes up to $150,000 qualify for the full tax credit.
The tax credit is like an Interest-Free Loan and must be repaid over a 15-year period.

If you're a first-time buyer and you purchased your home after April 9, 2008 and you didn't know about this program, you can still take advantage of it. Click here for more information.

If you'd like to purchase your first home and you aren't already working with an agent, I'd love to help you find your first home so that you can take advantage of the $7,500 Tax Credit. Give me a call, I'm looking forward to meeting you.

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

Ready to buy a house? Don’t know where to start? Attend our FREE HOME BUYER SEMINAR to find out.

Judi Morgan, San Antonio, TX Real Estate (Realty Executives Alamo) — Sat, 10 Jan 2009 15:35:09 -0600

Interest rates are low, there's a large inventory of houses on the market - you're thinking it might be a good time for you to buy a house. Wondering where to start? We can answer your questions. Attend a FREE Homebuyer's Seminar on Saturday, January 24, 2009 at 10:00 AM.

Your questions about how to find a lender, getting pre-qualified, types of mortgages available and many other questions will be answered during the Seminar.

Space is limited, contact me at 210-240-8001 or morgan79@msn.com to make a reservation and get directions to the Seminar. I'm here to help you realize your dream of purchasing your own home and I'm looking forward to meeting you.

_________________________

Football & Tailgate Parties coming to University of Texas at San Antonio!

Judi Morgan, San Antonio, TX Real Estate (Realty Executives Alamo) — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 21:47:43 -0600

On December 18, 2008, The University of Texas System Board of Regents granted the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) permission to expand their athletics and add a football program!

UTSA will develop an $84 million athletic complex over the next several years and add an NCAA Football Championship Subdivision (FCS, formerly Division I-AA) football program to advance the athletics department existing 16 intercollegiate sports programs with the addition of an NCAA Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS, formerly Division I-A) Conference.

The Athletic Program will be funded through student fees, corporate and private support and other revenue sources and will not affect the academic budget. The UTSA Students support expanding the athletics program and to double the athletics fee over the next 5 to 7 years from $10 per semester credit hour up to $20 per semester hour. The Fee will be capped at 12 semester credit hours.

The expansion of the Sports Program and adding football is to provide an enhanced and more complete University experience to the current students and to bring former students and the San Antonio Community closer to the University and it's development towards National Research University Status.

In 2009:

Launch a $15 million fundraising campaign
Hire a head coach and 2 assistant coaches
Begin recruiting players

In 2010:

Hire additional staff.
Sign first recruiting class in February and begin practicing with red-shirted inaugural team in August.
Begin construction of Phase I of Athletics Complex in February.

In 2011:

Expand team and play independent football schedule
Completion of Phase l of Athletic Complex in October.

In 2012:

Play Southland Conference football schedule.

Until Phase l of the Athletics Complex is completed, the team will practice either on the 1604 Campus or at one of the surrounding high school facilities. The new UTSA Athletics Complex will be located on a 125 acre of land located at Loop 1604 and Hausman Road.-it's 1 miles Southwest of the UTSA 1604 Campus. The Athletics Complex will include facilities for soccer and track, roadway, surface parking and other related infrastructure. After that, depending on successful fundraising, practice football fields will be added.

For more information about the UTSA Athletics Initiative Business Plan, check the UTSA Athletics Web site.

San Antonio Water Rates Increase in 2009

Judi Morgan, San Antonio, TX Real Estate (Realty Executives Alamo) — Thu, 01 Jan 2009 23:44:39 -0600

The San Antonio City Council recently approved a 3.9% rate adjustment (increase) in our water & sewer usage will go into effect in January, 2009.

The funds will go directly into our community to repair and replace our aging water and waste water infrastructure and to provide funding to develop critical water supply projects. The estimated increase would be approximately $1.63 per month - based on the average SAWS residential usage of 7,788 gallon of water and 6,178 gallons of wastewater usage per month.

Complete rate tables and a residential rate calculator are available on the San Antonio Water System website.

_______________________________

When buying or selling a home in North East, North Central or North West San Antonio, TX, you deserve local expertise and advice. Judi Morgan provides full time, professional real estate services to buyers, sellers, corporate and military transferees in San Antonio, Stone Oak, Canyon Springs, Shavano and Shavano Park, Castle Hills, Rogers Ranch, Helotes, Sonoma Ranch, Alamo Ranch, Red Bird Ranch, The Dominion, Leon Valley and more.

Want to save money on your water bill? Here’s how. . .

Judi Morgan, San Antonio, TX Real Estate (Realty Executives Alamo) — Thu, 01 Jan 2009 23:20:32 -0600

San Antonio is suffering an extreme drought. Since September, 2007, we've had only 16.4" of rain in the San Antonio area. That just isn't enough rain to recharge the Edwards Aquifer. Here's one way to help postpone water usage restrictions.

You can get a FREE home water conservation audit. It only takes a few minutes but it could save you some money. Here's how it works:

A trained conservation water auditor checks all your water connections - toilets, faucets, spigots - for leaks.
The auditor can also check your irrigation system (if you have one) to determine how it's performing and evaluate existing turf and soil conditions.
The auditor will also recommend effective ways to conserve and, if needed provide you with low-flow shower heads and aerators - FREE!

Why Should We Be Saving Water???

To save money on our water bills.
To help our community and our long-term water needs.

Contact San Antonio Water System (SAWS) to request more information about a Free Home Water Audit by dialing 704-SAVE.

____________________________________

San Antonio, Texas – Voluntary Drought Restrictions

Judi Morgan, San Antonio, TX Real Estate (Realty Executives Alamo) — Thu, 01 Jan 2009 22:35:16 -0600

Winter here in San Antonio usually brings rain. This is when the Edwards Aquifer is recharged by all of the seasonal rain. No t this year - we're in the midst of an extreme drought - the worse one since the 1950's. Our Aquifer level is falling instead of rising or at least holding steady.

Did you know that we use 2,000 gallons of water every time we use our irrigation or sprinkler system? San Antonio Water System (SAWS) is asking that we try to reduce the amount of water we're using both inside and outside. With a combination of some winter rain and conservation of water, we can postpone the drought restrictions.

It's winter - our lawns and landscape plants don't need as much water as they do during the summer. If you have Bermuda or Zoysia grass in your lawn, they're dormant this time of year. Water your winter annuals, vegetables and plants newly planted this fall by hand as needed. If you continue to use you're your irrigation system, reduce the run time on the controller to about two minutes per station once per month.

Now is a good time to check or have your irrigation system checked for any maintenance issues. Take a walk around your yard and look for any unexpected wet spots. If you find any, it could indicate a leak in the system. Once you've walked around your yard, run each zone in the system and check for broken or blown spray heads. All spray heads should pop up when turned on; if some don't pop up - it might be because of low pressure in the system or a leak. While the system is running also check for misaligned sprinkler heads that are misdirecting the water. Water in the street would indicate some misaligned sprinkler heads. There shouldn't be any runoff in the street. This is prohibited by city ordinance and can result in a fine. If you're handy you can probably make the repairs and adjustments yourself - if not contact a licensed irrigation system contractor.

Remember, San Antonio has year-round watering restrictions. You can water using a sprinkler or irrigation system between 8:00 PM and 10:00 AM. Watering during the middle of the day is against the law, unless you're using a hand-held hose, bucket, or watering can. Violation of the water restrictions are subject to tickets and fines.

____________________________

When buying or selling a home in North East, North Central or North West San Antonio, TX, you deserve local expertise and advice. Judi Morgan provides full time, professional real estate services to buyers, sellers, corporate and military transferees in San Antonio, Stone Oak, Canyon Springs, Shavano and Shavano Park, Castle Hills, Rogers Ranch, Helotes, Sonoma Ranch, Alamo Ranch, Red Bird Ranch, The Dominion, Leon Valley and more.

RAINMAKERS NEEDED!!!

Judi Morgan, San Antonio, TX Real Estate (Realty Executives Alamo) — Thu, 01 Jan 2009 20:56:50 -0600

How about a Rainmaker's Convention? Any help would be appreciated. San Antonio completed 2008 with the driest 16 months September, 2007 through December, 2008, in recorded history. We had less than 1" of rain in the past 4 months and climate scientists are saying the dry conditions could last until the fall. The San Antonio Water System (SAWS) is considering implementing drought restrictions when the Edwards Aquifer falls to 660 feet above sea level. The restrictions currently kick in at 650 feet above sea level but in conditions of severe drought this would kick in earlier and help conserve more water.

The area drought is classified as exceptional which is the worst category. Residents can expect widespread crop and pasture losses and shortages of water in reservoirs, streams and wells.

Since September 1, 2007 we have experienced 16.4 inches of rain which is more than an inch less than the next driest period which occurred at the end of the 7 year drought of the 1950's. 2008, with 13.76 inches of rain, ended as the third driest year since rainfall record keeping began in 1871. The 0.96 inches of rain recorded since Sept 1 this year marked only the third time less than an inch of rain has fallen during any four month period, according to the National Weather Service data.

The outlook for relief is bleak. The latest weekly forecast by scientists for the weather phenomenon known as La Nina indicates it's strengthening and could last until next fall.

La Nina, an upwelling of cold water in the Pacific Ocean, changes wind and moisture circulation patterns, generally bringing drier conditions to Central Texas.

RECORD DROUGHT

THE 12 DRIEST 16-MONTH SEPTEMBER THROUGH-DECEMBER PERIODS IN SAN ANTONIO (IN INCHES)

•1. 2007-08 16.40

•2. 1955-56 17.71

•3. 1916-17 18.93

•4. 1909-10 20.24

•5. 1924-25 20.58

•6. 1953-54 21.02

•7. 1938-39 22.65

•8. 1900-01 22.87

•9. 1954-55 22.89

•10. 1898-99 23.94

•11. 1995-96 23.98

•12. 2005-06 24.17

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

Active Rain on The San Antonio River Walk – December 26, 2008

Judi Morgan, San Antonio, TX Real Estate (Realty Executives Alamo) — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 23:42:21 -0600

I knew Trey Thurmond and his wife, Khris were planning a trip down to San Antonio, TX sometime over the holidays but had no idea when. I was driving to the office yesterday to meet a client when Shirley Parks called and to tell me Trey & his wife would be arriving in San Antonio sometime yesterday afternoon and they wanted to meet some of us for dinner on The River Walk. I jumped at the opportunity to see Trey & Chris again. We met at the first Texas Active Rain Gathering & Barbeque up in Bandera, TX back in April.

When I finished showing properties to my client, I gave Shirley a call to coordinate time and place to meet and where we'd be having dinner. Another call to Trey and it was decided we'd meet at The Menger Hotel and then go to Paesano's on the River Walk. I quickly gave Paesano's a call to reserve a table for 6 for 6:30 pm.

We arrived at The Menger a little after 6:00 and of course, I got side-tracked looking at all of the pictures and reading the plaques and taking pictures. I received a call from Shirley, checking on where we were - ummmm, just around the corner (literally) from y'all. We'll be there in a minute. It was a short walk about 2 blocks from The Menger to Paesano's. Then, a short wait in the bar while we waited for a table.My husband, Don & I had the specialty of the House - Shrimp Paesano - I was so busy taking pictures of everyone, I forgot to take a picture of the food - sorry! Hehe The food and service are very good at Paesano's. We finished our meal and continued to talk - got our bills for dinner and continued to talk and take pictures of each other and the restaurant. Finally, I decided I wanted a cappuccino. So we got the waiter back over and ordered coffees and cappuccinos and continued to talk.

The restaurant was closing (yes, we closed it down) so we left. It was a pleasant evening here in San Antonio - temperatures during the day had been in the low 80's (yes, on Dec. 26^th!) and temperatures for the evening were In the mid-70's. Very pleasant!

Christmas In The Mansion – The Woodward House in San Antonio, TX

Judi Morgan, San Antonio, TX Real Estate (Realty Executives Alamo) — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 19:55:21 -0600

Earlier this month, The Woman's Club of San Antonio, opened the historic Woodward House to the public to celebrate their annual "Christmas In The Mansion".

The 9,000 sq.ft. house was decorated from head to toe in the traditional Christmas Red & Green. This year's theme was Gingerbread. Thanks to many Club Members loaning personal collections of Gingerbread decorations and purchasing additional decorations using that theme, members of the club spent a good part of a week preparing the house for the Annual Event.

Here are some photos taken throughout the week of the event. Next year's "Christmas In The Mansion" is scheduled for December 1^st through December 4^th. Hope to see you there! Next year's theme hasn't been finalized yet - but I'll announce it once it has been decided.

“In Memory of” . . . A Beautiful Fleur De Lis Print. . . found on my trip home to Louisiana

Judi Morgan, San Antonio, TX Real Estate (Realty Executives Alamo) — Sat, 20 Dec 2008 12:05:49 -0600

Most of my friends here on Active Rain know (from my MEME's) that although I live and sell real estate in the beautiful city of San Antonio, TX; I am a Louisiana "Cajun" girl. I was born and raised in the beautiful Bayou State in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Like I say, "you can take the girl out of the bayou but you can't take the bayou out of the girl".

We drove the 5-1/2 to 6 hour trip this past weekend to attend my husband's family Annual Christmas Gathering. With 6 siblings, wives/husbands, children & grandchildren - it's quite a Gathering.

I had been "cruising" the internet for the last month or so, catching up with what's new in Lake Charles and surrounding area. This website is a great site about Southwest Louisiana - if you're going to or through the area, check it out and plan to stop in Lake Charles for a day or two. Oops, back to "cruising" the internet - I found Candice Alexander's website through the Southwest Louisiana website. Candice is a resident of Lake Charles and an Artist. I immediately fell in love with her Art and made a note to try to stop by her gallery while we were home. We had to shorten our visit by a full day and I was running out of time to visit all the places on my list - although, we had a full day of shopping and site-seeing on Friday I just didn't have time to stop by Candice's Gallery located at 809 Kirby St. (in the old Central School Bldg) in Lake Charles, LA. I was disappointed but made a note to visit the next time we visit Lake Charles.

On Sunday, we drove over to Lafayette, LA, to take Don's our two teenage granddaughters shopping for Christmas and out to lunch. We entered the Acadiana Mall at the middle entrance and I was so surprised to see directly in front of me a display of Candice Alexander's Art!!! Oh My!!! I ran, not walked over to it to make sure it was the same artwork I'd been admiring online. It was and Candice was there! I was able to talk to her and tell her that I'd found her website and had been admiring her artwork and had planned to stop by her Studio/Gallery but had run out of time. She was very nice (no we didn't get a picture of her and me, darn) but we DID buy a print!

Here's a picture (from Candice's website) of the print we purchased for our home, entitled, "In Memory of" -- it depicts a Fleur De Lis layered with a tree of life and stacked rock statues on an ocean background. All prints are hand-tinted with a gold or silver wash and torn by hand to create a beveled edge. Prints are also signed, numbered, and embossed with the official logo for Alexander Art Studio.

We haven't had a chance to take our print to a frame shop to have it framed yet. That will be taken care of after the holidays. We already know where it will be placed and plan to purchase a couple more as companion pieces.

When buying or selling a home in San Antonio, TX, you deserve local expertise and advice. Judi Morgan provides full time, professional real estate services to buyers, sellers, corporate and military transferees in San Antonio, Stone Oak, Canyon Springs, Shavano and Shavano Park, Castle Hills, Rogers Ranch, Helotes, Sonoma Ranch, Alamo Ranch, Red Bird Ranch, The Dominion, Leon Valley and more.

Breakfast With Santa at The Woodward House

Judi Morgan, San Antonio, TX Real Estate (Realty Executives Alamo) — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 08:31:38 -0600

Breakfast With Santa

Saturday, December 6, 2008

Three seatings available -- Reservations Required

9:00 am -- 10:00 am -- 11:00 am

Adults $12.00 each -- Children $15.00 each

Includes breakfast, picture with Santa and admission to Santa's playground with games and prizes

Payable in advance by Check, Visa or Mastercard

The Woman's Club of San Antonio

1717 San Pedro Avenue at French

San Antonio, TX 78212

210-732-4811

Reservations Required

Christmas In The Mansion 2008

Judi Morgan, San Antonio, TX Real Estate (Realty Executives Alamo) — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 23:30:43 -0600

Christmas In The Mansion

Each year The Woman's Club of San Antonio opens the doors of The Woodward House, built in 1904 for the Annual Christmas In The Mansion

Dates for this year's event are:

Tuesday, December 2nd through Friday, December 5th, 2008

Luncheon at

11:15 am & 1:00 pm (reservations required)

Make your reservation now to come for lunch and shopping at The Woodward House located at 1717 San Pedro Avenue. Parking is available at the San Pedro Little Theatre with a Free Shuttle to transport you to and from the Mansion.

Shopping Hours are 10:00 am to 3:00 pm.

Browse the "Christmas Bazaar" on the 2nd floor featuring wonderful specialty items from participating Texas vendors. In the Bake Shop (1st floor) you can purchase Cakes, Cookies, Pies, Breads, Cinnamon Rolls and our Special Gingerbread House Kits. You'll be amazed by the selection of gifts available in The Boutique (1st floor) affordably priced.

Luncheon and Christmas Bazaar is $23.00

Reservations Required

Payable in Advance by Check, Mastercard or Visa

Make Reservations at 210-732-4811