Daniel and Wendy Hajj welcomed their first little bundle of joy, Julian Marion Hajj, Oct. 25, 2009. Julian was born at the Northeast Baptist Hospital in San Antonio, TX.
Julian weighted 6 pounds 10 ounces and was 22 inches long at birth. Eight months later, mom and dad report their son looks like his father."
Jennifer Herin Selvester, 32, died on Sunday, April 18, 2010, hours after fulfilling her dream of giving birth to a beautiful daughter. Her life was defined by her love of nursing, her family, and her God. She opened her heart, shared her knowledge and skills, and inspired nursing students at UT Health Science Center at San Antonio. She loved unconditionally and nurtured strong relationships. She was a loyal, loving daughter. She was the best wife and mommy her Lovie Bear, Sugar Bear, and Honey Bear could ask for. She loved God and people, embodying the spirit of a humble servant.
Statesman of the Quarter: Danny Saenz
On April 2, 2010, Danny Saenz, co-owner of EmbroidMe in Stone Oak, was recognized as Statesman of the Quarter by Gina Groomer-Barbera, Director of the Stone Oak Business Association. Saenz received a plaque to be displayed in his business because of his outstanding attendance at SOBA meetings and ribbon cuttings, and also his frequent volunteer work with the organization. Saenz called the award, "Unexpected and really something special."
"They tried to keep us down and they can't," said Marine Corporal Aaron P. Mankin to a ballroom full of local politicians, media members, service people, and general attendants at the JW Marriott Hill Country Resort and Spa Grand Opening Fundraising Salute.
On a 2005 tour in Fallujah, Cpl. Mankin was the victim of an improvised explosive attack. His assault vehicle rolled over a bomb and was launched 10 feet into the air. He sustained burns on 25 percent of his body, including his face and hands, and lost two fingers. In a speech at the gala, Cpl. Mankin admitted that it wasn't living with the wounds that worried him as much losing his "superhero" status in the eyes of his younger brother.
"It's about damn time," said County Commissioner Kevin Wolff of the 281 Superstreet Groundbreaking event on March 11. The audience responded with laughter and applause.
Other speakers, including County Judge Nelson Wolff, Senator Jeff Wentworth (R-TX), Alamo Regional Mobility Authority (ARMA) Chairman William Thornton, and VIA Metropolitan Transit Board Chair Henry Munoz III, echoed the commissioner's sentiments with frequent jokes and a general sense of relief.
"This is for the people," Thornton proclaimed.
For over a year, Stone Oak residents have driven past the lot at 19126 Stonehue a nd witnessed its transformation from a dirt clearing to a gorgeous, two-story inpatient rehabilitation hospital. Close to completion, GlobalRehab Hospital is projected to open in spring, 2010.
In November, 2009, newly-elected Mayor Julian Castr
o began his
district meet-and-greet tour, with District 9 as his first stop. Stone
Oak residents and District 9 Councilwoman Elisa Chan welcomed
Mayor Castro at a reception at The Club At Sonterra on November 3,
sponsored by IBC Bank. The evening was an opportunity for the mayor to
present his vision for the future of San Antonio and to answer questions
from residents, concerning both District 9 and the city.