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Alamo Ranch/151 Business Association Welcomes Stevens Ranch Modern DentistryValentine’s Day AversionsDebunkedWBy Kathi Holzschuhere all know someone who claims to “hate” Valentine’s Day. (Maybe it’s YOU!). Somehaters have even re-named it“Manipulating People to Spend Money to Prove Love With Shallow Romantic Gestures Day.” (WAY too long!) But, is it? Is Valentine’s an overly commercialized overstatement of affection? Or is it more about love in general? Could it be as simple as being one day out of the year when we express love openly—a day to give little validations of fondness?The challenge with the haters’thinking is equating the day with money-- a waste of money. But think about it for just a second. How do you feel when you receive a card or note from someone expressing their appreciation and affection for you? Or when you receive a gift that says, “I’m glad you are in my life.” It feels good. It floods you with warmth and gratitude. How much money is that feeling worth?The other challenge with the haters’ thinking is that Valentine’s is just a day about romance. And it can be. But love is love, whether romantic, familia, or friendship. It doesn’t have to be expressed with roses and diamonds. It can be anything that brings together those you love or extends love to those who need it.Stepping outside ourselves for one day a year to express our love for others can fill our hearts with joy. Giving love to others brings love in return. So, if greeting cards and flowers are too pricey for you, write a note, pick flowers, or cook a meal. Spend time.Need more ideas? Here are five budget- friendly, love-inspired possibilities.1. “Friendsentine”-much like Friendsgiving, gather your gang and share a meal. Everyone can bring something to contributeA young airman cuts a pie to serve to his tablemateThe Alamo Ranch/151 Business Association welcomed newest member, Stevens Ranch Modern Dentistry, with a ribbon cutting on December 7, 2023.Stevens Ranch Modern Dentistry provides care to their patients using modern technology: Oral DNA testing, Velscope Oral Cancer Screenings, Same Day Crowns, Laser Therapy and CBCT radiology. With access to a General Dentist that has completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD)residency program accompanied by all specialists under one roof, they provide truly convenient comprehensive care forthe whole family (oral surgeon, endodontist, periodontist, orthodontist, and pediatric dentist.) Their vision is to provide the best care possible to their patients in a legal, moral,andethicalmanner. Theyareexcited to be a part of this growing community and look forward to helping as many people as possible get heathier and happier through their oral health.Stevens Ranch Modern Dentistry is located at 14314 Potranco Rd, Suite 109, San Antonio, TX 78253. They can be reached at (830) 219-1378 or visit www. stevensranchmoderndentistry.com.and share love through food.2. Handwrite your special people or person a heartfelt note expressing gratitude for them. Let them know how much they mean to you. This gift they can enjoy for years to come will fill them with love.3. Take a hike with your favorite person and enjoy the scenery-even if it’s cold outside. Stop and listen for the sounds of love around the birds, the wind, the trees rustling nature’s love for humanity.4. Create a photo album for your loved ones- there are many online apps to help with this. Fill it with images of special moments shared over the past year (or years).5. Snuggle up and watch a romantic comedy movie with your partner or a comedy without the romance with your pals. Be sure to have plenty of snacks- popcorn, chocolates, chips, and salsa-along with cozy blankets!However you choose to celebrate Valentine’s Day, you can make a meaningful day without spending a lot of money and contributing to the over-commercialization of the holiday. Think of all the people you love. Then, let them know with a simple gesture.Guests enjoy eating great food and good conversationVeterans - continued on page 9 February 2024HCR Veterans Provide Trainees Respite From DutyGuest trainees fill their plates with homemade Thanksgiving specialties.Submitted By Terry ArnoldTwo busloads carrying 50 trainees from Lackland Air Force Base stopped at the Hill Country Retreat4community center over the holidays.They were there to be honored by the HCR Veterans Group, who would provide themwww.alamoranchhighlights.com