Helotes Gateway to the Texas Hill Country
summer 2017
Stacey Moos with Boodro
Horsing Around Helotes by Bob McCullough Helotes’ Historic Dance Halls by Cynthia Leal Massey
A Daytripper’s Guide to Old Town Helotes by Glenn Goolsby
www.HelotesMagazine.com
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pring has come and gone, and, as we move into Summer, we are pleased to bring you the second issue of our new Helotes Magazine. We have received many positive comments from readers of our inaugural issue, so we hope you will find this issue to be just as enjoyable and informative about what is happening in and around Helotes this Summer. Whether your interests lean toward the love of horses or you are looking for some good Mexican food, you should enjoy our featured articles about local equestrian facilities and El Chaparral. Perhaps you will enjoy reading about some of our historic dance halls that have provided entertainment through the years, the first of which opened for business more than 100 years ago. This issue will introduce you to the exploits of an area resident who is a professional photographer. You will also meet a Helotes family that builds high quality custom homes to help their clients’ dreams come true. Lastly, you will learn about some of the businesses and activities available along Old Bandera Road in Old Town Helotes. We will continue to bring you new stories designed to give you a little taste of our history and some interesting insights into the many people, businesses, and events that make Helotes such a special place to live, work, and play. by Mayor Tom Schoolcraft
The City of Helotes comes from strong roots and a rich heritage, and, from that, we have built and will continue to build a strong sense of community. We have seen ribbon cuttings for several new businesses already this year and anticipate more to come before the end of the year. Our population continues to grow as new homes are completed and sold throughout the City. This year will be a history-making year for Helotes, beginning with the start of construction on at least four major street, utility, and flood control projects. All of these factors are indicators that Helotes is a vibrant and thriving City with a strong economy. I encourage you to get out and explore Helotes this Summer. Enjoy some of our many community events, especially the MarketPlace @ Old Town Helotes on the first Saturday of each month and our last three Movie Nights @ the Park on the third Friday of each month at City Hall. While you are out and about, be sure to let our local businesses know that you appreciate them opening their businesses in Helotes.
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Table of Contents Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country
Howdy Helotes . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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TOP
Horsing Around Helotes . . . . . . . . 14
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Helotes Points of Interest . . . . . . . 22 El Chaparral . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 A Daytripper’s Guide to OTH . . . . . 26 Jack Smith: Uncommon Images . . . 30
Magnificent One-Story Country Estate in Helotes!
Janus Builders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Featured Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Helotes City News . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
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Advertiser Coupons . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Advertiser Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
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Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country
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Magazine Credits Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country
Publisher Louis Doucette | Traveling Blender, LLC louis@travelingblender.com
Editor editor@helotesmagazine.com
Advertising Sales Janet Sandbach | janet@travelingblender.com
Contributing Writers
Carlos Miranda
“Your Good Neighbor Agent in Helotes” 210.695.2880 12415 Bandera Road Ste. 108 Helotes, TX 78023
AUTO • LIFE • HOME • FINANCIAL SERVICES
www.sfmiranda.com
Claudia Alarcon Julie Catalano Glenn Goolsby Cynthia Leal Massey Bob McCullough Angela Rabke Tom Schoolcraft Rick Schroder Helotes City Staff
Contributing Photographers Hayward Gaude Photography Bob McCullough Dave Scepanski Jack Smith
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Editorial Committee Members Ken Dempsey Louis Doucette Glenn Goolsby Cynthia Leal Massey Janet Sandbach Tom Schoolcraft Rick Schroder Andrea Wazir
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Helotes City Council Mayor Tom Schoolcraft Mayor Pro Tem Bert Buys Councilmember Alex Blue Councilmember Paul Friedrichs Councilmember Cynthia Leal Massey Councilmember Ed Villanueva Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country magazine is published by Traveling Blender, LLC (Publisher) on behalf of the City of Helotes. Reproduction in any manner, in whole or in part, is prohibited without the express written consent of the City of Helotes. Editorial and advertising material contained herein does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the City of Helotes, elected and appointed official, or its staff. Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country magazine, the Publisher, and the City of Helotes reserve the right to edit all material for clarity and space and assume no responsibility for accuracy, errors, or omissions. Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country magazine does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertisements or editorial, nor does the Publisher or the City of Helotes assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear in the magazine. Articles and photos are welcome and may be submitted to our office to be used in the magazine, subject to the discretion and review of the Publisher, Editor, or the City of Helotes. All submissions become the property of Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country magazine and the City of Helotes, and the submitter confirms that all submissions, including photography, is either the submitter’s own work or the writer / photographer has provided permission to the submitter to use the content within the magazine. All Real Estate advertising is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968, which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or an intention to make such a preference limitation or discrimination.”
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Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country
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“Horses are mirrors for people to see themselves,” Mendez believes. “I can tell what a person is like in their personal relationships from how their horse behaves. If they’re bullies or pushovers or fearful or indecisive or inconsistent in their behavior, their horse will show it all.” Barbara Taylor of Upward Transitions agrees. “Horses are large, powerful, non-judgmental, social animals that are soothing to be around,” she says. “They are keen observers of body language, and they can mirror clients’ emotions.”
by Bob McCullough
H
HORSING AROUND HELOTES
orses have been part of Helotes’ history since Native Americans and Spanish explorers traversed the area, and they continue to play important roles in helping people of all ages overcome fears, gain confidence and simply enjoy life.
Historian Cynthia Leal Massey notes that, for many years, horseback riding has ranked high as a Helotes pastime and that trail rides continue to attract devotees, especially around rodeo time. But for most of the calendar year, equine-focused entities like Esperanza Farm, Upward Transitions and Fairwind Farm endeavor to make special connections between horses and riders. Janine Mendez and husband, Ralph, established Esperanza Farm 25 years ago “to put people and horses together and watch them grow.” “I love to see people develop - not just riding skills - but understanding and empathy for the horses,” Mendez says. “Equally, I love to see horses that come here develop confidence. They develop their own personalities and lose their defensiveness. To see a rider and a horse grow together – that’s special.”
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Mendez instructs girls as young as 8 years old in afternoon sessions and “horse girls that never grew up” as young as 73 who get together in the mornings to refine their riding skills. In between, students ranging from age 12 to 22 are “very active and quite serious about their sport” of dressage, which started in Europe centuries ago as a way of teaching horses and riders in the military. The U. S. Army cavalry adopted the dressage method, and, ultimately, it became a competitive sport in the Olympics. “For the little ones, a lesson starts from when they walk in,” Mendez says. “I’m not teaching riders; I’m teaching horsewomen, and they need to know everything. They start by learning to catch their pony, tie him properly, move around him safely while grooming, and saddle and bridle him. Then, the riding portion of the lesson lasts about
In the case of Upward Transitions’ therapeutic riding program, those clients are male and female special-needs individuals ranging from 4 to 70 years of age. Taylor and Amber Higgs co-founded Upward Transitions in 2011 “to enhance the lives of people with physical, emotional, or mental challenges through horse-related programs.”
…“to put people and horses together and watch them grow.”
30 minutes. Lessons last about an hour – 15 minutes to get ready, 30 minutes to ride, and 15 minutes to take care of him afterwards. It’s not an accident that they spend as much time caring for him as riding.” As for Mendez’s “morning ladies,” she says all of them came with “a passion and love for horses, but they had been away from horses for a while, raising children, pursuing careers, helping with grandchildren. They were a little scared, they lacked confidence and they were not as strong as they once were. Now, they could run Esperanza Farm without me.” Mendez relies on Cappy, Rain, Grace, Pixie, Jack, Sparkle, Angel and about a dozen other gentle horses to teach riding and life lessons. She was 10 years old when another sweetheart, Lightning, became her first horse. He was 4 at the time and lived 42 years. Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country
“We treat each client individually to meet their needs and goals,” says Taylor, who operates Upward Transitions approximately 30 weeks out of the year. Seven horses, including Tonka, Cowboy, Ghost and Max, take part in 50-minute lessons, with three to four students in each class. In addition to equestrian skills, lessons cover topics such as horse anatomy, behavior, grooming and tacking. Upward Transitions specializes in “equitherapy,” which originated in Greece in the 5th century to rehab wounded soldiers. It has grown through the years and, ultimately, spread to the Americas. Equitherapy clients at Upward Transitions include military personnel recovering from injuries suffered in combat. Clients can also include at-risk youth, victims of violence and people with a wide range of mental challenges.
“ Horses are mirrors for people to see themselves. I can tell what a person is like in their personal relationships from how their horse behaves.”
“Our riders have fun and want to be here without realizing the physical, cognitive and emotional benefits being delivered,” Taylor adds. “I have seen children speak their first words on horseback, and I’ve seen clients progress to walking and running due to the strength that was built up through our program.” Stacey Moos of Fairwind Farm approaches the horse-human connection a bit differently – through barrel racing. “I bred, raised and trained Trakehner horses for 15 years,” Moos says. “My daughter, Lauryn, came to me four years ago and wanted to start doing rodeos. I grew up in the rodeo world and love it. So we changed Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country
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disciplines. Our main focus now is barrel racing. We have a rodeo team of amazing girls with high goals.” Moos established Fairwind Farm 14 years ago and named it after her first home-bred Trakehner, a breed dating to the 1700s that’s considered to be the oldest documented riding horse. Fairwind Farm - currently with 14 horses, five Welsh ponies and one zebra - breeds Welsh ponies and, next year, plans to start a quarter-horse breeding program.
“…If you’re having a rough time, find a horse to pet and brush. I promise they’ll make it all better.”
“This farm is my dream come true,” Moos says, “and now I get to share it with my three daughters – Rianna, Sierra and Lauryn. Family trail-ride days are my favorite! I’ve also been honored to teach many young ladies. Many of them are grown now, out there taking on the world. I am so very proud; I am blessed beyond measure.” Mendez, Taylor and Moos share a strong belief that there’s something magical about horses and their interactions with humans.
“Horses are incredible animals,” Moos says. “They’re a gift from God. With them, we form a great relationship – they count on us to care for them, and we count on them to be our teammate. There’s a lot of trust that goes both ways. If you’re having a rough time, find a horse to pet and brush. I promise they’ll make it all better.” To learn more about horsing around Helotes, contact Esperanza Farm at (210) 383-7831, Upward Transitions at (972) 977-3833 or Fairwind Farm at (210) 392-5120.
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Hileman’s Hall Scenic Loop Pool Room, Helotes’ first dance hall, built in 1913. Courtesy of Historical Society of Helotes.
, Helotes Historic
Dance Halls
Artist’s rendidtion of the Moonlight Tavern. Hileman’s dance hall brought in the crowds, as the long necks in the barrels show, circa 1915. Courtesy of Historical Society of Helotes.
by Cynthia Leal Massey
Hileman’s Dance Hall
Helotes Inn
Moonlight Tavern
he building in Old Town Helotes that once housed Soler’s Tri Sports has a storied history as the first dance hall in Helotes. Wilbert “Bert” Hileman purchased downtown property from Arnold Gugger in 1908, and, five years later, the new owner constructed the building. Helotes soon became known as a place to enjoy music and kick up your heels. Judging from a photograph featuring more than 20 barrels of discarded long necks taken after one of its Saturday night dances, Hileman’s Hall & Scenic Loop Pool Room was a rollicking success. The dance hall closed in 1916 after the Gottschalck family purchased the property and opened a mercantile, but its initial success as a dance hall could not be forgotten!
ileman’s dance hall re-opened as the Helotes Inn dance hall in the early 1930s and operated until about 1955. Advertisements in San Antonio papers called it the Famous Old Helotes Inn. Over the years, it featured dances every Saturday night with bands and orchestras, such as the Twilight Blenders and Blue Ramblers.
ear where today’s Helotes Municipal Complex stands was once another popular dance hall – the Moonlight Tavern. C. A. “John” Holman built the dance hall, a rock ranch-style building, in the early forties on property he purchased from the Henry T. Brauchle family. Holman married Augusta “Gussie” Biering, the widow of Theodore Biering who had died in 1943. Holman moved into the Theo Biering homestead (now called the Maples House on the property of Forest Hills Presbyterian Church) with his new wife and became a leader in the community.
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Art Schimmelpfening and his sister, Margie, lived in the Gugger homestead across the street from the dance hall in the forties. Art said, “We slept on the screened balcony front porch in the Summer. Across the street was the Helotes Inn, a big bar and dance hall. There were bands on Saturday night, also lots of fights. It was noisy until two in the morning, so we had quite a show all night. The county or somebody used to post ambulances along Bandera Road in Helotes and up to Pipe Creek on Saturday nights because there were so many wrecks after the dances…” People in Helotes loved to dance.
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After Augusta died in 1956, Holman leased the tavern to Al and Dottie L’Armee. Al was a noted pianist who entertained patrons with music of the era. The couple ran the tavern for two years before moving away. Holman sold the property in 1957. The Moonlight Tavern continued to operate for several years under different owners, until 1974 when the building became a vegetable store. It was eventually demolished to make room for the municipal buildings. Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country
Judging from a photograph featuring more than 20 barrels of discarded long necks taken after one of its Saturday night dances, Hileman’s Hall & Scenic Loop Pool Room was a rollicking success. Ibarra Ranch House
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n 1959, James Riggs attended a 50th wedding anniversary celebration for Juanita Morales and Eduardo Perez at the Helotes Inn, which had been operating since 1955 as a private venue establishment. Seeing how successful the event was, Riggs told one of their daughters, Herlinda Ibarra, who passed away in 2011 at the age of 100, she should re-open the Inn as a dance hall. “I told him I couldn’t,” said Herlinda. “I was 49. I thought I was too old.”
Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country
But Riggs kept urging her to re-open the Inn as a dance hall, and she finally did. The Ibarra family leased the downtown building from owner Zula Sartor from 1959 until 1961, calling it the Ranch House. The dance hall, which also served food, was popular, but the Ibarras found that most of their earnings went to pay the monthly lease. They decided to build a bigger dance hall on their own property, a seven-acre strip east of Old Bandera Road next to the house that they had purchased in 1951.
The Ibarra Ranch House opened in 1962 and featured country-western and conjunto music on alternate weekends. When the drinking age was lowered to 18, they discontinued the public dances and rented it for wedding receptions and private parties. In 1970, it became a restaurant called Minnie’s Café, and workers building the new Texas State Highway 16 often ate there. The Ibarras ran the café until 1985, when they sold the building and a few acres to the Longhorn Pipe Company. Today, the former dance hall houses Europa Imports Fine Antiques.
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John T. Floore Country Store
J
ohn T. Floore moved to Helotes in 1942 after negotiating a deal to lease James Riggs’ grocery store (now Country Elegance Antiques) to run a Red & White Food Store, an independent grocery chain established to more efficiently compete with larger franchises. Floore named the new establishment Floore Country Store, and he put his trademark signage on the window with such phrases as “Old Tough Meat,” “Stop and Gossip,” “Stale Groceries,” and “In This Joint Pass the Greatest Suckers on Earth – ‘Our Customers’.” An astute businessman and entertainer, Floore took note of the crowd on the weekends at the Helotes Inn dance hall next door. With that in mind, in 1945, he purchased 15.7 acres from Blanche
Schimmelpfening Maltsberger across the street, followed by a 1.02-acre purchase the next year. Blanche kept the almost two-acre tract where her family’s house–the Gugger homestead–was located. In 1946, John T. moved Floore Country Store to the almost 17-acre tract. The sign above the store read: “bar, café, dance, meats, groceries and real estate,” an eclectic array of services and products that mirrored the diversity of the man himself. In 1949, after completing what he dubbed “the largest patio in the Southwest,” Floore sponsored a celebration. A large crowd, including children from Helotes Elementary School, turned out for the event, and radio station WOAI broadcast the celebration.
John T. Floore, the only historic dancehall still operating in Helotes, is celebrating 75 years as a pre-eminent country music venue.
Happy Diamond
Anniversary!
Floore has been fortunate that it has had such dedicated proprietors. Before John T. Floore passed away in 1975, he asked Joe Algueseva to take over ownership, knowing that Joe would keep Floore the historic place it was. With wife Estella and their children, Lydia and Joe, “Papa Joe” ran Floore for seventeen years. The Algueseva’s sold Floore to Steve Laughlin in 1990. Twelve years later, he sold the honky-tonk to a group of investors, including James McKinney. This group continues to run Floore in a way that would make its founder proud. John T’s vision to bring top-rated country musicians to his music venue was realized over several decades, putting Helotes on the world map. In 2006, Floore was honored with a Texas Historic Landmark designation and a listing in the National Register of Historic Places. John T. Floore, the only historic dancehall still operating in Helotes, is celebrating 75 years as a pre-eminent country music venue. Happy Diamond Anniversary! Cynthia Leal Massey is the author of several books on the history of Helotes. Visit her website at www.cynthialealmassey.com.
This 1949 photograph of Floore Country Store, which opened in its current location in 1946, commemorates the completion of “the largest patio in the Southwest,” as John T. Floore dubbed the big concrete slab attached to the back of his famous dance hall and music venue. Floore Country Store is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year. Courtesy of John T. Floore Country Store.
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B-Daddy BBQ. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14436 Old Bandera Rd. Babe’s Old Fashioned Food. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12415 Bandera Rd. 27 Bad Dogz Beer & Bites. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12952 Bandera Rd. 13 Bandera Road Cafe. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12540 Bandera Rd. 15 Bill Miller BBQ. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12705 Bandera Rd. 30 Bobby J’s. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13247 Bandera Rd. 81 Dagoberto’s Mexican Food . . . . . . . . . 9708 Business Pkwy #128 19 Dairy Queen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12902 Bandera Rd. 58 El Chaparral. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15103 Bandera Rd. 24 Grand Patron. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12932 Bandera Rd. 14 Golden Chick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12550 Bandera Rd. 50 Helotes Country Club. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14687 Old Bandera Rd. 37 Helotes Creek Winery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14359 Old Bandera Rd. 46 John T. Floore’s Country Store. . . . . . . . . 14492 Old Bandera Rd. 18 Little Caesars Pizza. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12800 Bandera Rd. 9 Marco’s Pizza. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9708 Business Pkwy. 3 Oolong Chinese Restaurant. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12411 Bandera Rd. 55 Pete’s Place Spirits & More. . . . . . . . . . 14743 Old Bandera Rd. #9 85 Pinot’s Palette. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9708 Business Pkwy. 21 PHO AN. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12916 Bandera Rd. 17 Pizza Hut. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12730 Bandera Rd. 4 Rome’s Pizza . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12411 Bandera Rd. 12 Slim Chickens. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12530 Bandera Rd. 2 Sonic Drive-In. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12405 Bandera Rd. 8 Starbucks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12577 Bandera Rd. 26 Subway. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12952 Bandera Rd. 10 Taco Bell. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9708 Business Pkwy. 52 The Cracked Mug. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14743 Old Bandera Rd. #1 51 Wine 101. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14743 Old Bandera Rd. 84 Yogi’s Frozen Yogurt. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12411 Bandera Rd. 22 Advance Auto Parts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12929 Bandera Rd. 16 AutoZone. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12733 Bandera Rd. 5 Bricks and Minifigs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12415 Bandera Rd. #212 80 Cheetahlish. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14837 Old Bandera Rd. 36 Country Elegance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14391 Old Bandera Rd. 28 CVS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12980 Bandera Rd. 23 Dollar Tree. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12928 Bandera Rd. 54 E’s Bees and Creations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14743 Old Bandera Rd. 47 Elf Hardware. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14546 Old Bandera Rd. 31 Europa Imports. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13439 Bandera Rd. 25 Finck’s Cigar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12950 Bandera Rd. 42 GG’s House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14433 Old Bandera Rd. 41 Harvest Cottage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14398 Old Bandera Rd. 6
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Helotes Bicycle Shop. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14436 Old Bandera Rd. Helotes Tactical Firearms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14398 Old Bandera Rd. 32 Jupe Mills. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14096 Bandera Rd. 44 Melanie’s Rusted Nail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14436 Old Bandera Rd. 56 MimiDae Market. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14743 Old Bandera Rd. 39 Old Town Depot Antiques. . . . . . . . . . . . . 14392 Old Bandera Rd. 20 One Vapor Place . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12908 Bandera Rd. 1 Pipe’s Dreams. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12340 Bandera Rd. 53 Simply Raw Nutrition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14743 Old Bandera Rd. 34 Simply Yours Gifts & More . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14357 Riggs Rd. 35 Rhonda’s Coffee House & Helotes Creek Bed & Breakfast. . . . . . . 14359 Old Bandera Rd. 38 Three Sisters Home. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14391 Old Bandera Rd. 11 Tractor Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11946 Leslie Rd. 7 Walmart & Subway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12550 Bandera Rd. 49 Wilson Landscape Nursery & Florist. . 14650 Old Bandera Rd. 33 City Public Parking Lot. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14399 Riggs Rd. 40 City Public Parking Lot. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14392 Bandera Rd. 57 City Public Parking Lot. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14889 Old Bandera Rd. 29 Disc Golf Course / Fitness Park . . . . . . . . . . . 10505 Parrigin Rd. 59 Helotes City Park & Playground . . . . . . . . . . . 12951 Bandera Rd. 71 Alamo Karate Academy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12540 Bandera Rd. #210 68 Amor Nails. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12415 Bandera Rd. #214 73 Ann Nails. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9708 Business Pkwy. #108 66 Cindy’s Nail Spa. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12411 Bandera Rd. #101 62 Curves. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12274 Bandera Rd. #101 67 D’Anthony Salon & Spa. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12415 Bandera Rd. #104 74 Ella’s Barber & Beauty. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12914 Bandera Rd. 64 Evolution Hair Studio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12340 Bandera Rd. #106 70 Gals Nails. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12540 Bandera Rd. 79 Gardens at Old Town Helotes . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15060 Antonio Dr. 72 Great Clips. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9708 Business Pkwy. #106 63 Helotes Barber Shop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12274 Bandera Rd. 60 Helotes Crossfit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12266 Bandera Rd. #301 65 Helotes Nails. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12340 Bandera Rd. # 107 77 J Gibson Salon. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14359 Old Bandera Rd. #2 83 Josabi’s Event Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17200 Bandera Rd. 75 Marr’s Traditional Tae Kwon-Do Academy. 12918 Bandera Rd. 82 Robin Jansky Photography. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17200 Bandera Rd. 78 Rosie’s Hill Country Beauty & Barber. . 14743 Old Bandera Rd. 69 Southtown Yoga Loft. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12540 Bandera Rd. 61 UNI Tae Kwon-Do Club. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12266 Bandera Rd. #302 76 Your Destination Fit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12682 FM Rd. 1560 #204 48
El Chaparral Restaurant I
from nachos and tableside guacamole to Texas classics like puffy tacos and carne guisada. Signature dishes include cabrito asado, a classic Mexican specialty served with rice, refried beans, sliced avocado, lettuce, and tomato. Some dishes are inspired by Carlos and Gabriel’s desire to travel, while others are created by Executive Chefs Juan and Jesus Torres. Many items are named after family members, including the top-selling Carlos’ Special: two cheese enchiladas, one tamale topped with chili con carne, with a crispy picadillo taco and guacamole on the side. Puro San Antonio. “It has certainly been a recipe where all of our friends, family, employees, and customers can have a say on what they want to see and taste,” says Carlos.
by Claudia Alarcon
f you are a long-time Helotes resident or a frequent visitor to the area, you are certainly acquainted with the brightly colored, Spanish-style building on Bandera Road. El Chaparral Mexican Restaurant has attracted generations of devoted customers who return for the ample menu of Tex-Mex and Mexican-specialties prepared with a home cooked spin. Owned since 1972 by the Garcia family, the restaurant has a long history in the area, and the family has seen their share of struggles along the way.
“My grandfather on my father’s side came from Nava, Mexico in 1903, and he paid $.05 to come across,” says Carlos Garcia, who runs the restaurant today. “My grandmother on my father’s side was raised in an orphanage in Mexico City and was brought to the U.S. to be a babysitter for a prominent family that lived in Alamo Heights. My mother’s side of the family owned Mario’s Mexican Restaurant for over 40 years, which was a landmark in Downtown San Antonio. Her mother was from Devine, Texas, and her father came across from Mexico for $.10.”
In 1972, Mary and Carlos Garcia sold their San Antonio home to purchase the property, formerly occupied by Rudy & Irene’s Restaurant, and moved their children Jessica, Carlos, and Gabriel into the living quarters behind the kitchen. Since Mary had experience in the restaurant business, she managed the books while Carlos, who had trained under former owner Irene, worked the kitchen. “Many recipes were passed down from the previous owners, Rudy and Irene, who owned the restaurant for twenty-four years prior to my parents purchasing it in February of 1972. Other items came from my mother’s prior family restaurant,” says Carlos. The Garcia’s children, however, were not involved in the restaurant from the start. Jessica graduated with honors from St. Mary’s University with an International Studies degree and had traveled and studied abroad.
Twin brothers Carlos and Gabe played college soccer at the University of North Carolina-Charlotte from 1989 to 1992. “We graduated with political science degrees and went to Germany and played professional soccer in the third division for SW Wiesbaden for one season. After that, we returned home to play professionally,” says Carlos. “At the time, the highest level of soccer was the ULS, which is the league that the San Antonio F.C. is currently under. In 1993 and 1994, we won back to back National Championships while playing for the Greensboro Dynamo in North Carolina. I played for another five years in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina and Richmond, Virginia. My brother played for teams in New Orleans and in Hershey, Pennsylvania.”
Mary and Carlos Sr. are often seen walking among the tables greeting customers, many who have been coming to El Chaparral since they were children, and they are now bringing their own children.
Although Mary and Carlos Sr. are officially retired, they don’t stray far from the restaurant. They are often seen walking among the tables greeting customers, many who have been coming to El Chaparral since they were children, and they are now bringing their own children. It is safe to say that the legacy of El Chaparral will continue through a few more generations.
In 1996, life threw a curve ball to the Garcias when a tragic car accident took Jessica’s life, forcing Carlos and Gabriel to retire and return home to help with the family business. To honor their sister, they added a patio with a lush garden, complete with a pond, a stage, a playground, and beautiful views of the Hill Country – something Jessica had always wanted to have at El Chaparral. Inside, the restaurant is lively and relaxed, decorated with a variety of Mexican arts and crafts, paintings, and a large aquarium that divides the dining room and bar where patrons enjoy fresh lime margaritas in a convivial atmosphere. Aside from the old recipes, the vast menu includes everything
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Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country
Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country
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A Daytripper’s Guide to
Old Town Helotes
One of the many things that I love about visiting Old Town Helotes is how quickly you can unwind.
by Glenn Goolsby
S
ummertime has arrived in Helotes! The days are longer, the temperatures are increasing, and everyone is looking for something to do. It’s also the perfect time of year to remind ourselves that the Old Town Helotes Special District offers many unique getaway options within a short drive from home. One of the many things that I love about visiting Old Town Helotes is how quickly you can unwind. Old Town offers charming shops, historic finds, and amazing food, all within a change of landscape and the relaxing Texas Hill Country. Nestled at the edge of the Hill Country, Helotes is the “Texcentric” town of choice. European and Mexican descendants settled the Old Town area beginning in the 1850s. In 1881, Arnold Gugger founded what is now known as Old Town Helotes. The town developed around his homestead, featuring a general store, blacksmith shop, and, of course, a saloon. Many of the original buildings throughout the District still stand today. Start your morning off meandering under established Live Oak trees with a brisk walk down Riggs Road. Established in 1908, relocated in 1943, and expanded in 1990, Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church blends old and new and provides a bit of quiet for those seeking respite in the early morning hours. Continue your stroll and you will discover the Bluffs at Old Town Helotes. The Bluffs offer unique jewelry, men’s and women’s fashions, antiques, and furniture around the traffic circle. You’ll find a wine shop in the rear, and a coffee shop and bed & breakfast are set to open in the coming months! Surrounding the Bluffs property, you’re in for a real treat on the 1st Saturday of every month. Old Town Helotes springs to life with 240+ vendors participating in the MarketPlace @ Old Town Helotes. This one-day event starts off at 10 a.m. and runs until 5 p.m. Here, you will find handmade jewelry, arts & crafts from around the area, delicious treats, and live music in the street. The MarketPlace provides activities for the kiddos, as well. Visit www.helotesmarketplace.com for more information. Another local attraction near the Bluffs is Ladies Night Out on the 2nd Wednesday of every month from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. During Ladies Night, Old Town shop owners stay open late for a night out on the town. Food trucks, live music, giveaways, and, as always, free wine are available! Interested participants should contact event organizers by telephone at (210) 257-6828.
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Surrounding the Bluffs property, you’re in for a real treat on the 1st Saturday of every month. Old Town Helotes springs to life with 240+ vendors participating in the MarketPlace @ Old Town Helotes. This one-day event starts off at 10 a.m. and runs until 5 p.m. Here, you will find handmade jewelry, arts & crafts from around the area, delicious treats, and live music in the street. The MarketPlace provides activities for the kiddos, as well. Visit www.helotesmarketplace.com for more information.
continued... Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country
Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country
27
continued...
FROM AWARD-WINNING AUTHOR
As you continue your stroll, don’t forget to keep your eyes open for historic landmarks along the way. Be sure to read the plaques in front of the Gugger Homestead and John T. Floore Country Store.
As your tummy begins to rumble, an array of eateries are located along Old Bandera Road. From Texas Barbecue to Tex-Mex, restaurants on both sides of Helotes Creek are sure not to disappoint.
Time to rest those feet and cool down? Visit one of the District’s unique wine bars or taste test the National Beer of Texas at several friendly spots west of Helotes Creek. Check out the Shops at Old Town Helotes in the same area. The Shops feature local honey and other apiological products, home décor and furniture, clothing, and drinkeries.
As night falls, kick up your heels at the historic John T. Floore Country Store or listen to live music at Pete’s Place, a relatively new addition to Old Town. Food and drink abound at this quaint pub, and live music is regularly heard from their expanded outdoor patio. Check out Pete’s craft beer selection and listen to fellow Helotians’ “tall tales.”
On the 3rd Saturday of every month from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. the Shops feature the Helotes Art Walk. Sponsored by KTCAlive, the organization “believes in empowering today’s youth and local artists by having local community events, such as art walks, art shows, and art workshops. From aspiring to experienced artists to art lovers and supporters,” the Helotes Art Walk features something for everyone. Come out and see interactive art, live music, wine, and unique fare. Visit www.helotesartwalk.com for more information.
This summer, rediscover what’s in your own backyard! Visit Old Town Helotes.
CYNTHIA LEAL MASSEY
Boutique filled with unique gifts, clothing, hand-crafted items and rustic farmhouse inspired home decor.
Learn about the history of our unique town in three thoroughly researched and fascinating accounts of a town populated by hardworking pioneers, renegade Indians, elusive bandits, stalwart lawmen, and impassioned citizens. Will Rogers Silver Medallion Award Winner for Western Nonfiction
San Antonio Conservation Society Publication Award Winner
For more information on upcoming events in the City of Helotes, visit www.visithelotes.com.
This summer, rediscover what’s in your own backyard! Visit Old Town Helotes.
14743 Old Bandera Road, #13 Helotes, TX 78023 (210) 363-9113 www.mimidaemarket.com
AUTOGRAPHED COPIES AVAILABLE AT: Simply Yours Gifts & More 14357 Riggs Road
Picoso’s Peanut Company 18620 Bandera Rd.
Also available from your favorite online booksellers.
Visit www.cynthialealmassey.com for more information about the author and the books.
Simply Yours Gifts & More Your one stop shop for all your south Texas goodness. We have a wide assortment of items for sale, including western decor, boots, candles, jewelry and much more.
NOW
OFFERING
PICK UP & DELIVERY IN THE HELOTES AREA
CALL OR E-MAIL FOR DETAILS
NEW CUSTOMER DISCOUNT – 25% Off DC Garments
14357 Riggs Rd (210) 695-6951
Discounts: Teachers & Staff, Student Uniforms, Police & Military
Mon - Fri 7am – 7pm | Sat 9am – 3pm
210.695.4343 | popecleaners@yahoo.com 12682 FM 1560 N, Ste 104 (across from CVS, next to city hall)
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Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country
Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country
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Jack Smith:
Uncommon Images by Julie Catalano
F
ull-time, freelance professional photographer Jack Smith first fell in love with mountains and wildlife during childhood family vacations to New Mexico and Colorado. The longtime Helotes-area resident found a way to capture, preserve, and share his passion for the outdoors, nature, landscapes, and wildlife through incredible photographs of all of the above and more. Smith officially started his photography business, Smith’s Uncommon Images, in 2006 — a year before retiring as a school counselor for several districts in San Antonio, but he had already started to prepare for his new career path when he invested in top-notch equipment for the first time years earlier. “My brother always told me that Nikon made the best camera, so when I bought my first digital in 2003 it was a Nikon.” Like all professional photographers, Smith continues to invest in his business. It takes more than equipment to be a good photographer, and Smith consistently shows his talent (and luck) at being in the right place at the right time, with an impeccable eye and infinite patience for snagging just the right shot. Mesmerizing images of animals looking directly into the camera — longhorn steers and gentle deer, for example — are the payoff for long hours in the field. Smith enjoys traveling throughout Texas to capture some of the State’s most iconic images, such as the Alamo, bluebonnets, area missions, and the River Walk, as well as out-of-the-way places where he can frame a single flower, leaf, or colorful bird as a work of art. He recalls some of his favorite Texas shots: “Burnet is a place I got a great picture of a barn with a beautifully dense bluebonnet field. It’s just a wonderful picture. Got a good wildflower mix near Columbus and another good mix near Natalia, Cuero, and a little town called Industry. Nice longhorn steers there.” He chuckles over a particularly lucky shot of a raccoon strolling through a bluebonnet field in broad daylight. “I’ll probably never see that again.”
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Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country
Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country
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Coastal locales beckon, as well, and they provide gorgeous shots. “One of my first images I sold was a great blue heron in flight at Padre Island.” He also does weddings, family portraits, and other special occasions when people commission him for custom work. In Helotes, Smith shows and sells exclusively at MimiDae Market boutique in Old Town Helotes and, in downtown San Antonio, at the Starving Artist Art Gallery in La Villita. Both places sell his book, Spring Time in Texas: Photography by Jack Smith, that celebrates the glorious flora and fauna of a Texas Spring. He is hoping that his second book, The Best of Lost Maples: Photography by Jack Smith, will be released in the fall.
It takes more than equipment to be a good photographer, and Smith consistently shows his talent (and luck) at being in the right place at the right time, with an impeccable eye and infinite patience for snagging just the right shot.
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Thursdays 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. Saturdays 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
For additional days, check online calendar at
NationalShootingComplex.com
ALSO AVAILABLE: Corporate Events Charity Fundraisers Company Picnics Private Parties Non-Shooting Events
For more information and an online gallery of Smith’s Uncommon Images, go to texaspictures.photoshelter.com and smithsuncommonimages.weebly.com.
Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country
Helotes Collision Center For All Your Auto Body & Paint Needs
SPORTING MEMBERS ONLY CLAYS Wednesdays 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. 5-STAND Fridays 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. TRAP • SKEET
Smith is currently enthusiastic about his latest infatuation, one that takes him far from Texas. “Now that I have time to travel, I’ve fallen in love with Alaska, with the bears and the bald eagles. It’s just amazing. Canada is pretty cool, too. Of course, I love our Rockies.” He takes a casual approach towards his journeys, and he keeps an eye open for whatever crosses his path. “You never know what you’re going to see, so you just have to be ready.” Smith is equally philosophical about his place in the world as an artist. “That’s my whole mission – to find beauty in the world and share it with others. So when I see people smile after viewing my work, even if they don’t buy it, it gives me satisfaction to know that someone had a little joy in their day because of that.”
OPEN PUBLIC SHOOTING
(210) 695-9038 Carl & Patsy Monaco Owners
11634 Rainbow Ridge Helotes, TX 78023
helotescollisionctr@prodigy.net
FOR MORE INFO: Royce Graff 210-688-3371x113 rgraff@nssa-nsca.com Amber Schwarz 210-688-3371x125 aschwarz@nssa-nsca.com
Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country
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LOOKING FORWARD
…and back
JANUS CUSTOM BUILDERS FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED SINCE 2002
by Angela Rabke
I
n Roman mythology, Janus was the god of construction. In ancient times, you could always find a depiction of Janus within building sites and on ancient doorways and gates, with his two faces looking to both the past and the future. When Janice and Tom Potter decided to start their own business as custom homebuilders back in 2002, Tom came across this story as they considered what to name their company. They immediately knew that the symbolism associated with Janice’s name was perfect. Janice held a solid background in homebuilding, as did Tom. “I accidentally ended up in the business. Tom and I built our home ourselves, and a builder next door hired me during the process,” says Janice. She worked as a superintendent in the construction business for 10 years and found that she especially enjoyed working on custom homes. The couple was happily settled in Helotes, with three kids in school and roots in the community. “We just love to work in this area, as well as the surrounding areas of Timberwood Park, Bandera, and
Pipe Creek,” says Janice. With strong roots and a long history in Helotes, the couple looked to the future and started Janus. The business has grown over the past 15 years, and all three kids are now grown and work in the family business. “I’m so proud of the fact that we all work well together and that we get along,” says Janice. “We’ve all got our own part of the building process, and together we are able to put together some really nice homes for people.” Each family member brings a unique touch to the business, whether it is Janice’s attention to detail, Tom’s 45 years of in-depth construction experience, or the kids’ expertise in areas like real estate, interior design, and carpentry. The family’s approach to home building is personal. They build each home as if they were going to live in it themselves, and they understand that each family’s approach is different. “Some people already have a plan, some others may just have some ideas, but everyone has a budget,” Janice shares. “We understand that this is the biggest invest-
… whether Janus is matching homeowners with designers, managing the construction process, or supervising a remodel, Janus’ motto applies to all of their projects: “Vigilance to Quality, Beginning to End.”
ment that most people make, and we want to make the best product that we can.” This means linking clients with designers who match their tastes, making adjustments to materials and amenities along the way to meet budgets, and, more than anything else, being great listeners. “We really just try to help each homeowner. We give people our cell phone numbers and make sure they feel comfortable,” says Janice. Because each homeowner is different, the process varies; whether Janus is matching homeowners with designers, managing the construction process, or supervising a remodel, Janus’ motto applies to all of their projects: “Vigilance to Quality, Beginning to End.” Janice acknowledges that women in the construction business are rare, but notes that it’s becoming more common. “It makes sense,” she says. “To many women, their home means ‘family,’ and women really know instinctively how a home should be arranged. I think that’s why we are starting to see a lot more women in architecture and construction.” The family is excited about the future of Janus Custom Builders in Helotes. “This is our home; I love driving past our work in the area and remembering the story of each project,” she says. The family is excited to continue diversifying their business with local commercial projects, embracing evolving styles and trends in homebuilding, and applying their knowledge of the local landscape and topography to their projects. www.janushomes.com
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Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country
Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country
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FEATURED
EVENTS
INDEPENDENCE DAY CONCERT & FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR – JULY 1, 2017 @ 6 P.M.
RECURRING EVENTS Mon. – Fri. | 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Casa Helotes Senior Citizens Center
4th Tuesday | 7 p.m. Helotes Humane Society
3rd Thursday | 7 p.m. Helotes Masonic Lodge
Every Monday | 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Helotes Area Community Band Rehearsal
1st Wednesday | 7 p.m. Knights of Columbus
Every Friday & Sunday | 7 p.m. & 2 p.m. Helotes Lions Club
Congregate Meals & Activities 12070 Leslie Rd. | casahelotes.com
First Baptist Church | 14889 Old Bandera Rd. helotesareacommunityband.com
1st Monday | 7 p.m. Helotes Festival Association
The Bluffs at OTH 14391 Riggs Rd. | visithelotes.com
3rd Monday | 7 p.m. Helotes Ag Booster Club
T
Free hot dogs, ice cream, and apple pie (while supplies last) are served by City Staff and volunteers. We recommend that you bring your own chairs and blankets. Personal coolers are allowed. Parking is available at City Hall, and shuttle busses will run between the Helotes Walmart parking lot and City Hall beginning at 5:00 p.m. For additional information, go to www.visithelotes.com.
MOVIE NIGHT @ THE PARK – 3RD FRIDAY @ 6 P.M.
General Meeting | Helotes 4H Activity Center 12132 Leslie Rd. | helotes4h.org
1st Tuesday | 7 p.m. Helotes Planning & Zoning Commission Regular Meeting | City Hall 12951 Bandera Rd. | visithelotes.com
1st & 3rd Tuesday | 7 p.m. Helotes Lions Club
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ovie Nights are scheduled annually on the 3rd Friday of each month, May through September. Activities start at 6:00 p.m. We recommend that you bring blankets and lawn chairs, and personal coolers are allowed. Looney Tunes cartoons and movies start at dusk.
First Baptist Church 14889 Old Bandera Rd. | fbchelotes.org
1st Saturday | 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. MarketPlace @ Old Town Helotes
Arts & Crafts Fair 14391 Riggs Rd. | helotesmarketplace.com
3rd Saturday | 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Helotes Art Walk
The Shops at OTH 14743 Old Bandera Rd. | helotesartwalk.com
August 5, 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Helotes Fit Community Workout
September 2, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The MarketPlace @ OTH
July 1, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The MarketPlace @ OTH
August 5, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The MarketPlace @ OTH
September 4 | City Offices Closed Labor Day
First Baptist Church | 14889 Old Bandera Rd. fbchelotes.org
Old Town Helotes | 14391 Riggs Rd. helotesmarketplace.com
July 1, 6 p.m. | Independence Day Concert & Fireworks Spectacular
August 9, 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Ladies Night Out in Old Town Helotes
July 3 – 4 | City Offices Closed Independence Day
August 18, 6 p.m. | Movie Night @ the Park and Helotes Area Community Band Concert | Moana
The Bluffs at OTH | 14391 Riggs Rd. visithelotes.com
it back, relax, and enjoy a great night of free family entertainment as we continue our 10th season of Movie Night @ the Park. Each Movie Night is held behind City Hall, 12951 Bandera Road, and offers an outdoor concert by our Helotes Area Community Band, free hot dogs (while supplies last) from area sponsors, food vendors, and activities for the kids until the movie starts.
1st Saturday | 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Helotes Fit Community Workout
July 1, 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Helotes Fit Community Workout
July 12, 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Ladies Night Out in Old Town Helotes
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2nd & 4th Thursday | 7 p.m. Helotes City Council
Bingo 14690 Bandera Rd. | heloteslionsclub.org
JULY, AUGUST & SEPTEMBER EVENTS
City Hall | 12951 Bandera Rd. visithelotes.com
The Jungle Book – September 15th
Regular Meeting | City Hall 12951 Bandera Rd. | visithelotes.com
General Meeting 11740 F.M. 1560 | helotesmasonicfamily.org
General Meeting | Lions Club Bldg. 14690 Bandera Rd. | heloteslionsclub.org
Old Town Helotes | 14391 Riggs Rd. helotesmarketplace.com
Moana – August 18th
3rd Wednesday | 7 p.m. Helotes Economic Development Corp.
Regular Meeting | City Hall 12951 Bandera Rd. | visithelotes.com
First Baptist Church | 14889 Old Bandera Rd. fbchelotes.org
Pete’s Dragon – July 21st
General Meeting Our Lady of Guadalupe Church 13715 Riggs Rd. | kofcknights.org
2nd Wednesday | 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Ladies Night Out in Old Town Helotes
General Meeting | Lions Club Bldg. 14690 Bandera Rd. | cornyval.org
he City of Helotes hosts its annual Independence Day Concert & Fireworks Spectacular on Saturday, July 1st at City Hall, 12951 Bandera Road. The free event includes a patriotic concert by the Helotes Area Community Band, an inflatable slide for the kids and young-atheart, food vendors, family-friendly activities, and more! Fireworks start at dusk.
Board Meeting 10672 Shaenfield Rd. | hhsanimals.org
July 15, 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Helotes Art Walk
The Shops at OTH | 14743 Old Bandera Rd. helotesartwalk.com
July 21, 6 p.m. | Movie Night @ the Park and Helotes Area Community Band Concert | Pete’s Dragon
The Bluffs at OTH | 14391 Riggs Rd. visithelotes.com
City Hall | 12951 Bandera Rd. visithelotes.com
August 19, 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Helotes Art Walk
The Shops at OTH | 14743 Old Bandera Rd. helotesartwalk.com
September 2, 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Helotes Fit Community Workout
First Baptist Church | 14889 Old Bandera Rd. fbchelotes.org
Old Town Helotes | 14391 Riggs Rd. helotesmarketplace.com
September 5, Noon – 2 p.m. Historical Society of Helotes Meeting Saltgrass Steakhouse | 11812 Bandera Rd. RSVP: info@historicalsocietyofhelotes.org historicalsocietyofhelotes.org
September 13, 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Ladies Night Out in Old Town Helotes The Bluffs at OTH | 14391 Riggs Rd. visithelotes.com
September 15, 6 p.m. | Movie Night @ the Park and Helotes Area Community Band Concert | The Jungle Book City Hall | 12951 Bandera Rd. visithelotes.com
September 16, 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Helotes Art Walk
The Shops at OTH | 14743 Old Bandera Rd. helotesartwalk.com
City Hall | 12951 Bandera Rd. | visithelotes.com Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country
Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country
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Helotes City News by Helotes City Staff
The Center’s dispatchers currently hold – or are working on – Master, Advanced, and Intermediate telecommunicator certifications through the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE), and Center dispatchers provide pre-arrival emergency medical instructions to callers before EMS arrives on scene. TCOLE requires each dispatcher to attend 20 hours of continuing education every 2 years. We are proud to announce that, on average, each dispatcher has far exceed the minimum training requirement and attended 72+ hours of continuing education training every 2 years. Moreover, the Helotes Dispatch Center continues to host training at its facility for area dispatch centers. Recently, the City sponsored training on:
Angela Bocconcelli – Dispatch Supervisor
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he Helotes Dispatch Center currently dispatches for the Cities of Helotes, Leon Valley, and Grey Forest. Overseen by Dispatch Supervisor Angela Bocconcelli and Assistant Supervisor Ashley Suarez, the Department maintains a 24x7x365 schedule with 9 dispatchers.
• customer service; • domestic violence; • high-risk situations; • hazardous material and fire events; • suicide intervention; • train, plane, and automobile catastrophes; • sexual assault family violence investigations; • Spanish for telecommunicators; • emergency medical dispatching; and • CPR for health care providers.
In April 2017 during National Telecommunicator Week, two Center dispatchers attended the Texas Public Safety Conference sponsored by the Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials (APCO) and the National Emergency Number Association (NENA). There, dispatchers were able to hear from industry experts, learn new skills, network with other telecommunicators, and meet with communications vendors and suppliers.
In the first four months of 2017, the Helotes Dispatch Center processed 18,594 calls for service between the 3 agencies. Calls for service include resident telephone calls, traffic-related stops, fire and EMS calls, and officer-initiated calls into the Center. Of those calls for service, approximately 41% originated in Helotes, 1% in Grey Forest, and 58% in Leon Valley. The Cities of Grey Forest and Leon Valley compensate the City of Helotes for the provision of annual dispatch services. The Center was established in 2010, and it reports to the Office of the Mayor through the City Administrator. Considerable research was conducted prior to the commencement of the Center, and the equal representation of all emergency services personnel (Fire, Police, and EMS) within the Center was and continues to be a top priority. Consequently, the Center’s hierarchy was fashioned in such a way as to provide a departmental “mediator” to ensure a balance of competing priorities. Moreover, Center management continues to ensure that routine Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) audits are passed with few, if any, deficiencies.
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Should you wish to provide information to the Helotes Dispatch Center regarding hazardous materials and/or special devices stored on your property or if elderly family members, special needs individuals, or incapacitated persons reside on your property, please contact us at:
(210) 695-2500 (Non-emergency) (210) 695-6713 (Facsimile) (210) 695-5932 (Supervisor) abocconcelli@helotes-tx.gov (Email)
The Dispatch Supervisor will be happy to answer any other questions you may have. Safe travels!
Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country
City of Helotes
Jazz a’Round Old Town Helotes The 2017 Jazz a’Round OTH was a huge hit! Featuring a variety of Austin and San Antonio-based acts, the event brought large crowds to Old Town Helotes on Saturday, June 10, 2017. From 4 p.m. to 1 a.m., patrons enjoyed a variety of jazz styles, the food truck alley, and area shops.
Mayor Tom Schoolcraft and the 2017 Miss Helotes and Court welcome crowds.
Law Office of Kathleen Cassidy Goodman, PLLC Wills | Trusts | Power of Attorney Probate | Guardianship
Advertiser Coupons
Civil Litigation | Business Law
BBQ & Smoker Pits Since 1993
Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country | Summer 2017
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EXPIRES 9/30/17 12274 Bandera Rd #222 | Helotes, TX 78023 210.949.1000 | Fax: 866.602.1102 KCGLaw@att.net | www.BexarLaw.com
10% OFF LTC CLASS
Expires 9/30/17 15241 Bandera Rd. | 210-858-6882 gunshack.com
PICK UP & DELIVERY IN THE HELOTES AREA
CALL OR E-MAIL FOR DETAILS Expires 9/30/17
NEW CUSTOMER DISCOUNT – 25% Off DC Garments Discounts: Teachers & Staff, Student Uniforms, Police & Military
Mon - Fri 7am – 7pm | Sat 9am – 3pm
CALL TODAY 210-202-0303
210.695.4343 | popecleaners@yahoo.com 12682 FM 1560 N, Ste 104 (across from CVS, next to city hall)
APPLE PEST CONTROL
GET STRONG + STAY STRONG All Summer Long
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REST OF THE SUMMER FREE * Locally Owned and Operated
12274 Bandera Rd., Helotes, TX 78023 210.695.2275 * Enrollment fee due up front and varies by location. Monthly membership fees waived through the end of August 2017 if you join on the same day as your first visit for a minimum 12-month recurring billing fitness membership. Not valid with any other offer or discount. Valid at participating locations only. No cash value. Offer ends 8/27/17. © 2017 Curves International, Inc. (1704)
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GET YOURS TODAY!
If it Bugs You, It Bugs Apple!
25 OFF $ 25 OFF $ 25 OFF $
APPLE PEST CONTROL • 210-695-8946
APPLE PEST CONTROL • 210-695-8946
APPLE PEST CONTROL • 210-695-8946
210.695.2880
Carlos Miranda – Agent sfmiranda.com 12415 Bandera Road, Suite 108 – Helotes, Texas
Initial Home Pest Control Service Mosquito Treatment Service Fire Ant Exterior Service Expires 9/30/17
Crazy Bread® With the purchase of any two pizzas
Expires 9/30/17
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8-piece order • Crazy Sauce® extra
Autographed copies of Cynthia Leal Massey’s books about Helotes can be purchased at Simply Yours Gifts & More in Old Town Helotes & Picoso’s Peanut Company Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country
“Your Good Neighbor Agent in Helotes”
CALL, CLICK OR COME BY Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country
OFFER EXPIRES 12/31/17
Valid only at the Helotes, (210) 372-9556 LittleCaesars® location. Not good with any other offers. Plus tax where applicable.
FREE LIP BUTTER
with purchase of simplified lotion product. 14743 Old Bandera Road, #13 • Helotes (210) 363-9113 www.mimidaemarket.com
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Advertiser Index Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country | Summer 2017
Attractions
Gymnasiaums
Helotes Hill Country Zipline 210-834-1292 | www.heloteshillcountryzipline.com
Crossfit Born Ready 210-254-7961 | www.crossfitbanderaroad.com
Author
Curves 210-695-2275 | www.curveshelotes.com
Cynthia Leal Massey www.cynthialealmassey.com
Automobile Services Helotes Collision Center 210-695-9038
Dance Hall & Cafe John T. Floore’s Country Store 210-695-8827 | www.liveatfloores.com
Dining/Restaurants B-Daddy’s Barbeque 210-275-9995 | www.bdaddysbbq.com
Janus Custom Homes 210-695-9770 | www.janushomes.com
Insurance Agents State Farm-Carlos H. Miranda 210-695-2880 | www.sfmiranda.com
Legal Services The Law Office of Kathleen Cassidy Goodman, PLLC 210-949-1000 | www.KCGLaw.com
Pest Services
El Chaparral Restaurant 210-695-8302 | www.elchaparral.com
Apple Pest Control 210-695-8946 | www.applepestcontrol.com
Little Caesars of Helotes 210-372-9556 | www.littlecaesars.com
Real Estate & Realtor® Services
Dental Services
Stevie Seitz – Re/Max Real Estate 210-382-2923 | www.justcallstevie.com
Kinard Family Dental 210-695-1200 | www.kinarddental.com
Kara Gilbert – Keller Williams Realty 210-616-1050 | kgilbert@kw.com
Dry Cleaners
Kyle Gilbert – Texas Property Group 210-287-9801 | www.txranchrealestate.com
Pope Cleaners 210-695-4343 | www.popecleaners.com
Event Center/Venue Gardens at Old Town Helotes 210-695-4777 | www.gardensatoldtown.com
Fabrication Helotes Pits 210-695-9754 | www.helotespits.com
Financial Institutions Frost Bank 210-220-6603 | www.frostbank.com
Guns / Ammo / Gun Accessories Gun Shack 210-858-6882 | www.gunshack.com
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Home Builders
Services College Nannies, Sitters & Tutors 210-202-0303 | www.collegesitters.com Maid Affordable 210-372-9970 | www.maidaffordable.com
Shooting Range/Gun Club NSSA-NSCA 210-254-1510 | www.nssa-nsca.org
Shopping MimiDae Market, LLC 210-363-9113 | www.mimidaemarket.com Simply Yours Gifts & More 210-695-6951 www.facebook.com/Simply-Yours-Gifts-More
Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country
A PREMIER HILL COUNTRY VENUE
Close to the city
MINUTES FROM THE CITY, in the gateway to the Hill Country, sits Gardens at Old Town Helotes. This six acre private estate accommodates up to 200 guests. The lush landscaping, walking trails, lighted paved patio and bridal suite are only some of the perks to this little piece of heaven. We can’t wait to show you around.
15060 Antonio Dr., Helotes | 210.695.4777 | www.gardensatoldtown.com