Metrocom - July 2020

LOCA LCOMMU NI TYNE WS.CO M | VO L . 8, I SSUE 1 | JULY 2 1 - AUG. 18 , 2020

COMPLETE CALENDAR LIST TO PLAN AHEAD

HAPPENING LOCAL PG. 06

NEWS BRIEFS AND BUSINESS OPENINGS

LOCAL LOWDOWN PG. 08

PG. 18 | EDUCATION: GO BUFFALOES — CLEMENS GETS A NEW PRINCIPAL CIBOLO • CONVERSE • GARDEN RIDGE • LIVE OAK • SCHERTZ • SELMA • UNIVERSAL CITY • WINDCREST

LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS The

Surge PG. 12 | PANDEMIC

Metrocom assessing economic impact as pandemic cases rise PG. 14 | STIMULUS

CITIES

offer financial boost to businesses during outbreak

PG. 20 | GOOD DEED

SCHERTZ GIRL SCOUT

makes kids’ ER visits easier

Medical personnel stay on the go in Selma

PG. 04 | OPINION

SUSAN YERKES COVID-19 and a better normal

2 STAFF

L O CA L C O M M U N I T Y N E W S JULY 21 - AUG. 18, 2020

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VISIT US ONLINE TO FIND OUT MORE AND JOIN THE DISCUSSION ABOUT WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR COMMUNITY. EDITOR TH O MAS E DWARDS tedwards@localcommunitynews.com

LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM

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ON THE COVER – Personnel from Schertz Emergency Medical Services and the New Braunfels Fire Department supported COVID-19 testing with nursing-home residents and staff in Selma. So far, even as positive cases rise across the San Antonio area, Randolph Metrocom cities say the financial impact has been mixed. See story on page 12. Photo courtesy of Selma Fire Department

The LOCAL Community News editorial board includes Jaselle Luna and Thomas Edwards.

Speak Up THE FIRST AMENDMENT guarantees the right to “peaceably … assemble” in protest. It does not permit looting businesses, smashing windows and burning cars.

A string of deaths during law-enforcement encounters — primarily Black men — have provoked righteous outrage.

Peaceful demonstrations advocating necessary policing reforms are completely in keeping with the American character.

However, some rallies in U.S. cities that began as nonviolent marches sparked isolated but needless destruction.

Black lives matter. Parents of color should not have to give “the talk” to their children about what to do when dealing with police.

Equal justice under the law is essential to democracy.

However, trashing private property and attacking merchants — often in the very communities where injustice occurs — arguably divides, rather than unites, many of us.

Terrence Floyd, the brother of George Floyd, an African American who died at the hands of white Minneapolis police, asked protesters to stop rioting.

“That’s not going to bring my brother back,” he said, instead urging the election of leaders who support changing the culture and behavior of law officers.

Like peaceful demonstrations, voting is a right. Though it may start in the streets, true and lasting reform happens at the ballot box.

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OPINION

L O CA L C O M M U N I T Y N E W S JULY 21 - AUG. 18, 2020

A new and better normal

by SUSAN YERKES

NOWADAYS, there’s lots of talk about “the new normal” – a handy description of our altered reality in a post-coronavirus world: Wear masks while shopping, practice social distancing, shelter at home, stockpile toilet paper, don’t touch your face. …

These have become routine in the wake of COVID-19 as we try to keep our communities and ourselves alive and well. Some of them may be around for a while.

COVID-19 isn’t going to disappear in the next few months, no matter how desperately we might want to go back to living as we did before the outbreak, when hugs and handshakes

didn’t come with health warnings. It’s going to take more time. Yet, despite the persistence of the virus, the world is opening up again, however haltingly. As it does, I’ve been thinking about what

parts of the new normal we might want to maintain.

To me, the most powerful lesson of the pandemic has been a renewed spirit of caring. When times get tough, Texans rise to the challenge.

People across the region started thinking about what they could do for others. Neighbors offered to deliver groceries to those more at risk, folks turned out to donate blood and volunteerism became commonplace. When record numbers hit by the economic shutdown turned to the San Antonio Food Bank, the ranks of volunteers swelled to gather and distribute meals. Others signed over their government stimulus checks to aid the less fortunate. The level of need brought the plight of many families, children and elders into stark relief.

As a journalist, I have the privilege of hearing a lot of people’s stories.

One of the most heartwarming came from a female reader who moved here from another state for a promising job just months earlier. However, when the

pandemic struck, her position was eliminated. Reading stories in LOCAL Community News about how neighbors and neighborhoods assisted each other, she too wrote about wanting to help.

“While it’s disappointing and scary (I don’t exactly have a plan yet), I also realize that I’m blessed to receive a severance package that many others who have also lost employment do not have access to,” she told me. “I’d like to use part of my severance to help however I can.”

This spirit of giving is not new, but it seems stronger and more widespread. Each act of kindness is an inspiration.

Across town, people are taking the time to show appreciation to essential workers, from health care personnel to supermarket clerks.

As Zoom sessions replaced office meetings and support groups, families also started reaching out online, sometimes connecting with distant friends and relatives often

Not that there’s a silver lining to COVID-19, but columnist Susan Yerkes notes that in the wake of the pandemic, there is a ‘renewed spirt of caring’ she’s seen across the area. Texans are rising to the challenge, she says. File art

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5 out of touch for years.

With classrooms shuttered to avoid the spread of the virus, many parents spent more quality time with their children (OK, not always a blessing, but we’re talking positives here).

There was an opportunity to cook meals at home, and with restaurants closed, more reason to do so. Also, I’ve never seen so many walkers or bike riders on neighborhood streets and parks.

Fresh air and exercise lift the spirit while strengthening the body. People are paying more attention to cleaning and handwashing – habits worth keeping. Life slowed down. There were, and still are, hardships, tragedy and pain. For many, the old normal is gone forever. Now is the time to focus on what’s ahead.

As the pandemic passes, life will certainly speed up again. But, we can choose to continue some of the actions and attitudes, which sustained hope and community in these dark times. We can plan and work to shape a better normal in the future. syerkes@localcommunitynews.com

One of the most wellrespected and awardwinning journalists in South Texas, Susan Yerkes pens a column each month for LOCAL Community News.

A veteran of newspapers, television, radio and online, she calls San Antonio home.

LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM

6 HAPPENING

L O CA L C O M M U N I T Y N E W S JULY 21 - AUG. 18, 2020

JULY

PLAN YOUR MONTH WITH OUR CALENDAR OF UPCOMING EVENTS IN THE COMMUNITY.

City Councils/ School Districts Schertz: 6 p.m. July 28 & Aug, 4, 11; 1400 Schertz Parkway Live Oak: 7 p.m. July 28 & Aug. 11; 8001 Shin Oak Drive Cibolo: 6:30 p.m. Aug. 11; 200 S. Main St. Converse: 7 p.m. July 21 & Aug. 4, 18; 406 S. Seguin Road Garden Ridge: 6 p.m. Aug. 5; 9400 Municipal Parkway Selma: 6:30 p.m. Aug. 11; 9375 Corporate

Drive

Windcrest: 6 p.m. Aug. 3, 5 p.m. Aug. 17; 8601 Midcrown Drive Universal City: 6:30 p.m. July 21 & Aug. 4, 18; 2150 Universal City Blvd.

Comal ISD: 6 p.m. Aug. 26; 1404 Interstate 35 North in New Braunfels North East ISD: 5:30 p.m. Aug. 10; 8961 Tesoro Drive in San Antonio Judson ISD: 7 p.m. Aug. 20; 8205 Palisades Drive in Live Oak Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City ISD:

6 p.m. July 28; 1060 Elbel Road in Schertz

JULY 21 & AUG. 18 GARDEN MEETING

Live Oak Village Garden Club meets from 1-3 p.m. in the Live Oak Clubhouse, 7901 Shin Oak Drive. For updates or cancellations, call Jo Anna Wheeler at 210-655-1036.

JULY 22 & AUG. 12

GARDEN RIDGE LIONS CLUB The group meets at 7 p.m. in the Garden Ridge Community Center, 9400 Municipal Parkway. For updates or cancellations, email swint01@ hotmail.com.

JULY 22 & AUG. 12

SCHERTZ-CIBOLO LIONS CLUB The group meets from noon to 1 p.m. at the Schertz Family YMCA, 621 Westchester Drive. Free admission; bring a lunch. For updates or cancellations, call 210-445-3980.

JULY 25 & AUG. 8 MEET THE MAYOR

Come to the City Hall lobby at 406

S. Seguin Road and converse with Converse Mayor Al Suarez at 8 a.m.

No appointment necessary. During the COVID-19 outbreak, face coverings are necessary. For updates or cancellations, visit https://www. conversetx.net.

JULY 27 & AUG. 10

RANDOLPH METROCOM ROTARY The club meets from noon to 1 p.m. at Olympia Hills Golf & Event Center, 12900 Mount Olympus St. in Universal City, or during the COVID-19 pandemic, via Zoom video conferencing. Lunches, $15 per person, often have invited speakers.

RSVP by 5 p.m. the Friday before to David Sippel at David@DavidSippel. com. For updates or cancellations, call Liane Garrett, club secretary, at 210-683-1169 or visit www. randolphmetrocomrotary.org.

JULY 28 & AUG. 11

CONVERSE LIONS CLUB The group meets at 7:30 p.m. in the Greater Randolph Area Services Program, 250 Donalan Drive in Converse. For updates or cancellations, visit https://www.eclubhouse.org/sites/conversetx/.

JULY 28 & AUG. 11 OPTIMIST CLUB

The Windcrest Optimist Club, meets at 7 a.m. in the Windcrest Civic Center, 9310 Jim Seal Drive.

For updates or cancellations, call Andy Biancardi at 210-656-5117 or email apb437@yahoo.com.

EDITOR’S NOTE: THE CALENDAR IS CURRENT AS OF PRESS TIME, BUT SOME EVENTS MAY HAVE BEEN POSTPONED OR CANCELED DUE TO CORONAVIRUS CONCERNS. ACCESS TO PUBLIC MEETINGS MAY BE LIMITED OR STREAMING ONLY. CHECK WITH THE LISTED CONTACTS FOR UPDATES.

JULY 21 - AUG. 18, 2020

HAPPENING

L O CA L C O M M U N I T Y N E W S

JULY 28 & AUG. 11

WINDCREST LIONS CLUB The group meets at 6:30 p.m. in the Windcrest Civic Center, 9310 Jim Seal Drive. For updates, visit http://www.eclubhouse.org/sites/windcresttx/.

JULY 29

SUPPORT GROUP New Haven Assisted Living & Memory Care, 2300 FM 3009 in Schertz, hosts conversations from 10-11 a.m. for caregivers of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia sufferers. For updates or cancellations of the free event, call 210-319-4965.

JULY 31

DINNER IS SERVED American Legion Auxiliary Unit 667, LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM

504 Bowie Drive in Universal City, serves chicken-fried steak from 5-7 p.m. Plates cost $8. Free parking. For updates or cancellations, call 210658-3731.

JULY/AUGUST

TRI-COUNTY CHAMBER The group, cultivating business alliances across Bexar, Comal and Guadalupe counties, holds monthly activities. For updates, visit www. txtricountychamber.org or call Lisa Jubela at 830-305-6926.

JULY/AUGUST

THE CHAMBER EVENTS The Chamber (Schertz-CiboloSelma area) offers several monthly activities. During the COVID-19

pandemic, most are offered by Zoom video conferencing. Events include an 11:15 a.m. to 1 p.m. July 21 luncheon; an 8-11 a.m. EPIC Business Series called “Social Media/ Digital Market Training” via https:// bit.ly/2ViNIGx; a July 31 “Coffee with The Chamber” from 7:30-9 a.m. at https://bit.ly/3dBktF6; and an 11:15 a.m. to 1 p.m. nonprofit luncheon at Schertz Civic Center, 1400 Schertz Parkway (Building 5); contact The Chamber by Aug. 11 to RSVP. For updates, cancellations or to register for a secure link to these events, visit www.thechamber.info or email finance@thechamber.info.

For more coronavirus information concerning local business’ schedules or availability, call 210-619-1952.

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AUG. 1

HOW SECURE IS YOUR CAR SEAT? Learn how to properly fit a car seat and ensure children’s safety by joining the Schertz Police Department, Schertz EMS, Cibolo Police Department, Selma Police Department and Universal City Fire Department at Pickrell Park, 703 Oak St., from 9 a.m. to noon.

For updates or cancellations of this by-appointment-only event, call Officer Kraft at 210-619-1264 or email akraft@ schertz.com.

AUG. 2

CIBOLO GRANGE 1541 MEETING Adult members gather at Grange Hall, 413 N. Main St. in Cibolo, for HAPPENING continues on pg. 10

LOWDOWN

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L O CA L C O M M U N I T Y N E W S JULY 21 - AUG. 18, 2020

TAKE A QUICK LOOK AT WHAT’S NEW IN THE COMMUNITY FROM OPENINGS AND CLOSINGS TO NEWS TIDBITS.

Open and Opening Soon

burgers. It’s open for dine-in, drivethru and curbside. Hours are 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 7 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday. For more, call 210-5910663 or visit hatcreekburgers.com.

QUIKTRIP, 1014 Kitty Hawk Road

MAGNOLIA PANCAKE HAUS, 17730 Interstate 35 North in Cibolo, plans to open this third location in November.

The company said construction was delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic. The menu is similar to its other restaurants and will feature buttermilk pancakes, German favorites and corned-beef hash. For more, visit magnoliapancakehaus.com. (See the story on page 22)

in Universal City, debuted this spring with 18 gas pumps, hot and fresh foods, fountain drinks and more. It’s open 24/7. For more, call 210-955-6397 or visit quiktrip.com.

HAT CREEK BURGER CO., 7617 N. Loop 1604 East in Live

THE JUDSON INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT ANNOUNCED it will

Oak, grew from a cheeseburger food trailer created in 2008

by Austinite Drew Gressett to some 25 brick-and-mortar locations across Texas. The restaurant features 8-ounce

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IN OTHER NEWS:

spend $3.75 million on its online learning program for a one-to-one device to student initiative. This will involve a device for every JISD student, prekindergarten through 12th grade, who is engaged in virtual or blended models of instruction during the COVID-19 pandemic. Devices can be issued to students from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Monday through Thursday at the JISD Education Resource Center, 8205 Palisades Drive in Live Oak.

THE JUDSON INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT APPROVED A $209.8 MILLION BUDGET during a special meeting in June. It includes increases of 5 percent in expenditures related to the coronavirus pandemic, officials said.

THE CONVERSE CITY COUNCIL APPOINTED Shawn Russell, a former member, to the Place 1 seat to take over from Kathy Richel, who is moving. The council recently has seen a few arrivals and departures.

Dana Losey, budget manager with Youth Advocate Programs Inc., was appointed to the Place 4 seat to replace Kate Silvas.

RETIRED LT. COL. ERIC BASS, THE AIR FORCE JROTC INSTRUCTOR AT CLEMENS HIGH SCHOOL, recently was named to the 2019-2020 Outstanding Instructor Awards Regional-Level Winners list.

He’s one of 16 instructors to earn the distinction of “Best of the Best.” Bass said in a release he is “incredibly blessed” to be

LOWDOWN SPOTLIGHT

MAGNOLIA PANCAKE HAUS

JULY 21 - AUG. 18, 2020

LOWDOWN

L O CA L C O M M U N I T Y N E W S

recognized as the Region 3 Officer Instructor of the Year.

THE LAST DAY TO GET A REFUND FOR 2020 TASTE AT RETAMA PARK IS JULY 31. Ticket holders must stop by The Chamber, 1730 Schertz Parkway in Schertz.

Bring ducats and identification. For more, call 210-619-1960.

9be43f068ecb3ced670e61ab2?filter=c2VhcmNoPQ== to create an account and view recently introduced options.

ON JUNE 16, SARAH REED WAS NAMED THE NEW PRINCIPAL at Rose Garden Elementary School. Since 2013, she served as assistant principal at Schertz Elementary School. The Clemens High School and Texas State University graduate said in a release she’s deeply honored and humbled to join the Rose Garden family.

SCHERTZ RESIDENTS CAN VIEW PARKS, RECREATION AND LIBRARY PROGRAMS ON CIVICREC. Through the website, neighbors can check park pavilion rentals, register teams for the Adult Kickball League, purchase Daddy Daughter Dance tickets, register for a library program and more.

Visit https://secure.rec1.com/TX/ schertz-tx/catalog/index/a6678cd-

THE SCHERTZ-CIBOLO-UNIVERSAL CITY INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT EDUCATION FOUNDATION recently named new officers: Danny Cornejo, president; Marion Dolford, vice

president of programs; Jeanine Claus, vice president of development; Ellen Ward and Michelle Scarbrough, co-vice presidents of marketing; and Gabe Farias, vice president of finance. Farias is a frequent guest columnist for the South San Antonio edition of LOCAL Community News. The foundation has raised $324,364.07 for educational needs since it was formed in 2008.

SCHERTZ RESIDENTS CAN NOW PAY UTILITY BILLS ONLINE, monitor their consumption and set thresholds. Visit munincipalonlinepayments.com/ schertztx. For more, call 210-619-1100 or email businessoffice@schertz.com.

SELMA JUNE 11 HELD A SWEARING-IN CEREMONY for Mayor Tom Daly and

9

council members Becky Harris and Noah Washington Jr.

LISA HERNANDEZ IS THE NEW city secretary for Converse. She has 17 years of work-related experience, officials said.

CELEBRATE DYSLEXIA HONORED JANET HUDSON, A DYSLEXIA THERAPIST AT SALINAS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, as a “World Changer.” She will also be part of the exhibit Beautiful Minds: Dyslexia and the Creative Advantage, coming to The DoSeum Oct.10 through Jan. 4, 2021. Hudson has been at Salinas for more than a decade. The children’s museum is at 2800 Broadway in San Antonio.

Find LOCAL Lowdown at www. localcommunitynews.com.

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L O CA L C O M M U N I T Y N E W S JULY 21 - AUG. 18, 2020

HAPPENING continues from pg. 07

Pop Quiz!

What percentage of people have a fear of the dentist? ❍ a. 17%

❍ b. 40%

❍ c. 75%

DR. KIMBERLY STEWART & DR. TREVOR LIM

AUG. 3-7

Ready for the answer?

Up to 75% of Americans report having some fear of the dentist. This fear can range from being slightly apprehensive to being so terrified that it will prevent them from receiving needed dental care.

CHIPPER IN SELMA Free chipper service is provided to residents each month. Dates are subject to change. For updates or cancellations, call 210-6517800 or email eporto@ci.selma. tx.us.

Olympia Hills Family Dental is here to help.

We have several options to help our patients overcome their fear of the dentist.

Taking Time to know our patients as individuals.

For most of our patients, their dental fears can be overcome simply by us taking time to listen to their concerns and answering their questions. We work with them to come up with a treatment plan that works for them.

AUG. 5

ST. PAUL’S CHURCH SUPPER St. Paul Evangelical Church, 108 S. Main St. in Cibolo, hosts a free dinner from 6-7 p.m. For updates or cancellations, call 210-6585874.

Oral Sedation The next step for some of our patients is oral sedation. If a patient is a candidate for oral sedation, our doctors can prescribe a mild oral sedative for them to take before their appointment. This allows the patient to be relaxed but still be fully aware of what is going on during their visit.

Conscious Sedation For our patients who still need a little more help in overcoming their dental anxiety; we can provide them with conscious sedation. As the name implies, patients are not asleep, but very, very relax. Patients can still respond to questions while under conscious sedation but are less aware of the treatment taking place.

It is not uncommon for some patients to not even remember the appointment.

If you are letting fear of the dentist keep you from receiving the care you need, please call our office at (210) 658-3131 to schedule a free consultation. During this visit, we will simply talk and help you come up with a plan to overcome your dental fears. You are not alone.

Olympia Hills Family Dental is here to help.

AUG. 8

OPEN-AIR CINEMA

CANCER CARES SPECIALISTS IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

NEW NAME SAME GREAT CANCER TEAM!

Sincerely, Jerame K. Hafen, DDS

Universal City Park, 305 North Blvd., concludes a series of free films with the outdoor showing of “Jumanji: The Next Level.” Bring lawn chairs and blankets. Due to the COVID-19 crisis, this event may become a drive-in variety.

For weather alerts, plus updates or cancellations, visit http:// www.universalcitytexas.com/679/ Movies-In-the-Park.

AUG. 8

CALLING ALL DO-IT-YOURSELFERS

Dr. Hafen is the proud owner of Olympia Hills Family Dental and welcomes you and your family to experience the care and dedication his team of dental professionals will provide. To learn more about our office, please visit our website: www.olylmpiahillsdental.com

916 Coronado Blvd., Universal City

12705 TOEPPERWEIN RD LIVE OAK, TX 78233

www.olympiahillsfamilydental.com

(210) 816-4771 PHONE

3131 (210) 658-3

socializing at 2:30 p.m., and 3 p.m. business discussions.

Newcomers welcome. For updates or cancellations, visit www. grange.org/cibolotx1541/31-2/.

Come to DIY Saturday from 9-11 a.m. inside the Comal County office of the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, 325 Resource Drive in New Braunfels. Cost is usually $15. For series topics, updates or cancellations, call 830620-3440.

AUG. 9

MORNING MEAL American Legion Auxiliary Unit 667, 504 Bowie Drive in Universal City, hosts Second Sunday each month from 8-11:30 a.m. Breakfast buffets cost $7 for adults, $3 for children 3-10, younger tykes eat free. No charge for parking. For updates or cancellations, call 210-658-3731.

AUG. 10

ANIMAL LOVERS The Humane Society of Live Oak meets from 6:30-7:30 p.m. in the Live Oak Clubhouse, 7901 Shin Oak Drive. Open to all. For updates or cancellations, contact HumaneSocietyofliveoak@gmail. com.

AUG. 10-14

CONVERSE BRUSH The city, divided into four sectors, staggers monthly brush pickups.

Next collection area for clippings is Zone 4. Residents should place brush on the curb by Aug. 8. For a map, a calendar, pile size, updates or cancellations, visit www. conversetx.net.

THROUGH AUG. 14

BACK-TO-SCHOOL PROGRAM Help prepare for the upcoming academic year. Randolph Area Christian Assistance Program will conduct its annual charity collecting school supplies for needy students, kindergarten through 12th grade. Applicants must meet income qualifications and prove residency in 78108, 78109, 78124, 78148, 78154, 78132, 78233 (Live Oak only), 78247 or 78266 ZIP codes.

RACAP is located at 307 Pfeil

JULY 21 - AUG. 18, 2020

L O CA L C O M M U N I T Y N E W S

St. in Schertz. Those interested in applying for assistance or contributing cash donations should call 210-658-1613 or visit www.racap. org. Special instructions during the COVID-19 pandemic may be required.

AUG. 15

SCHERTZ’S MOVIES IN THE PARK Wendy Swan Memorial Park, 4601 Cherry Tree Drive, will host an outdoor screening of “A Dog’s Journey” at 7 p.m. During the COVID-19 crisis, social-distancing rules are enforced. For updates or cancellations in the free celluloid series, visit https://www.schertz. com/519/Music-Movies-in-the-Park.

AUG. 15

ART APPRECIATION The Youth Building behind the Live Oak Clubhouse, 7901 Shin Oak Drive, is the gathering site for art fans at 11 a.m. For more info including occasional field trips, plus updates or cancellations, call Kat at 210-844-5315 or visit https://www.facebook.com/ LiveOakLeagueOfArts/.

AUG. 17

STRUGGLING WITH CANCER? The New Life Cancer Support Team, a community-outreach ministry of New Life Baptist Church, 101 North St. in Converse, meets at 7 p.m. in the Rupp Building. Those dealing with cancer are invited for emotional

HAPPENING

and physical support. For updates or cancellations, call 210-658-1972.

MONDAYS

RAISE A TOAST The Schertz Chamber of Commerce Toastmasters Club meets at 6:45 p.m. via Zoom video conferencing during the COVID-19 pandemic; other times at The Chamber offices, 1730 Schertz Parkway. For updates or cancellations, visit http://schertzchambertm.weebly. com/.

WEDNESDAYS

GREATER RANDOLPH AREA KIWANIS FOUNDATION The group meets at 7 a.m. in Jim’s Restaurant, 7000 N. Loop 1604 East in San Antonio. For updates or

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cancellations, email Cindy Newton at cindyn@satx.rr.com, or call 210-3814082, or visit www.grak.org.

WEDNESDAYS & THURSDAYS PTSD SUPPORT GROUPS

Family members of veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder meet for a 6:30 p.m. Wednesday meal at Grange Hall, 413 N. Main St. in Cibolo. The following day, the same site and time is reserved for a dinner and talk only with service members. For updates or cancellations regarding either session, call 210-390-8002.

SUBMITTING EVENTS: Email all the details along with your contact information two months in advance to tips@localcommunitynews.com.

LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM

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Remote learning, online, and limited on campus instruction

ALAMO.EDU/NLC The Alamo Colleges District is an EOE. For any special accommodations issues or an alternate format, contact the Title IX Coordinator, (210) 485-0200.

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L O CA L C O M M U N I T Y N E W S

PANDEMIC

JULY 21 - AUG. 18, 2020

Metrocom braces for COVID-19 financial impact BUSINESSES LEARNING TO ADAPT

by EDMOND ORTIZ

RANDOLPH METROCOM cities have not seen much of a financial impact from the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, but San Antonio faces potential budget cuts to compensate for losses.

Meanwhile, as some businesses, public facilities and recreational venues tried reopening during another surge in positive virus cases, communities sought to address more routine governmental matters and help those most adversely affected by the outbreak.

Universal City Mayor John Williams said many residents have taken the crisis and

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public-health precautions seriously.

“I’ve been impressed by people’s willingness to try and stay within the guidelines,” he added.

Kim Turner, Universal City Industrial Development Corp. executive director, said many local merchants have shown resiliency by maintaining curbside and to-go service during the emergency.

“A lot of businesses are feeling the pinch, but a lot have been able to do the work,” Turner said.

She added, July “will tell the tale” about Universal City’s receipts.

The town has not furloughed employees or cut services.

“Our city staff has been unaffected. That’s a good thing,” Williams said.

In neighboring Live Oak, sales-tax revenues from April 2020 declined 37 percent compared to April 2019.

“Regardless of these shortfalls, Live Oak had five really good months to start out the (fiscal) year and we have no doubt that with restrictions being eased up considerably that we will return to the positive with businesses not only reopening, but like Hat Creek Burger (Co.), opening up for the first time in our region,” City Manager Scott Wayman said.

WINDCREST SALES-TAX REVENUES NEARLY

10% HIGHER

in June 2020 than June 2019

JOHN WILLIAMS, UNIVERSAL CITY MAYOR

OUR CITY STAFF HAS BEEN UNAFFECTED

The City Council also welcomed a new member, Ramon Norris Jr. He replaced Anthony Brooks, who died from COVID-19 complications.

Windcrest’s sales-tax revenues were nearly 10 percent higher in June 2020 than June 2019.

City Manager Rafael Castillo said corporations such as Rackspace, retailers near Walzem Road and Interstate 35, and industrial ventures along Eisenhauer Road helped keep the town ahead of most other area burgs.

Former Windcrest Councilwoman Sherillyn Flick said when the nearby H-E-B experienced long lines because of capacity rules and supply shortages, many neighbors patronized a local Asian grocery store.

“Our city has fared very well,” she added.

Garden Ridge city government, businesses and civic groups, too, have remained stable.

The local Lions Club worked with the South Texas Blood & Tissue Center to organize a blood drive.

“Our citizens continue to responsibly employ appropriate (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) guidelines,” Mayor Larry Thompson said.

JULY 21 - AUG. 18, 2020

L O CA L C O M M U N I T Y N E W S

Many Metrocom residents have delayed basic or preventative medical and dental appointments.

Gov. Greg Abbott recently ordered Bexar County hospitals to postpone elective procedures in deference to new COVID-19 positive patients.

“The only medical appointments I’ve canceled myself were my dental cleaning,” said Schertz/Cibolo-area resident Luisa Cano Weiss.

She also dropped routine visits to an ear/nose/throat specialist and a dermatologist.

San Antonio, for its part, is implementing a $191 million plan to boost small-business aid, housing security, workforce development, and bridge the digital divide in North East Independent School District to help students with distance learning.

Mayor Ron Nirenberg said residents need help from local government, especially because many have lost their jobs or were furloughed.

“A majority of people have been affected by this economic crisis and they’re teetering on the edge, they need action,” he added. “They need relief.”

While council members endorsed an

NOW IS THE TIME TO TRIM YOUR OAK TREES.

13

emergency relief package, some argued for more assistance to smaller companies.

“Small businesses are the backbone of this community. When you look across all the allocations, it’s one of the smallest allocations here,” said Councilman Clayton Perry, who represents the Northeast Side.

While San Antonio works to reopen public facilities, including libraries, with capacity limits and safety measures, city officials acknowledged the upcoming fiscal year looks uncertain. The municipality projects more than a $100 million revenue loss.

“We made the cuts in our budget in order to stay balanced,” City Manager Erik Walsh said.

Regarding public gatherings, large events have been banned as community leaders seek to enforce social-distancing rules and thwart the virus’ spread.

Windcrest, San Antonio and Schertz nixed traditional Fourth of July festivities. But, the latter encouraged residents to stay home and watch a miniparade of vehicles ferrying city officials and staff through the streets.

Find this story and more at www. localcommunitynews.com.

Amy Hyatt prepares a sandwich at Four Kings restaurant in Universal City. The eatery was one of 50-plus small businesses awarded the city’s Economic Development Corp. stimulus grant to pay off four months of rent and utilities during the pandemic. Photo by Jose T. Garza III

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14

L O CA L C O M M U N I T Y N E W S

STIMULUS

JULY 21 - AUG. 18, 2020

Local governments rally to aid merchants CITIES PROMOTE GRANT PACKAGES TO KEEP DOORS OPEN AT SHOPS

by JOSE T. GARZA III

Several Randolph Metrocom cities are providing economic relief to struggling business owners dealing with the economic effects of the novel coronavirus.

Since March, many shops have closed or reduced patron capacity, laid off staffers and struggled to pay the rent or mortgage, thanks to the spread of COVID-19.

To counter the downturn, Live Oak awarded $215,000 to 47 local enterprises since May, according to city officials. About $300,000 in Economic Development Corp. funds – originally earmarked for a water purchase – was allocated through grants, said City Manager Scott Wayman.

Up to $5,000 went to each establishment.

Also in May, Universal City politicos approved a $500,000 stimulus package derived from municipal and Economic Development Corp. dollars, of which, $438,000 was allotted to 54 businesses.

After OK’ing a $150,000 Small Business Reinvestment Program initiative June 11, Selma received applications from 15 merchants, said City Administrator Johnny Casias.

While funds hadn’t been disbursed as of press time, each owner may be entitled to $5,000.

Converse will begin accepting forms for its own stimulus July 21. Due to the town’s status as an economic and industrial hub, launching the $250,000

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grant program was a lengthy process, Economic Development Corp.

Director Jimsi Kuborn said.

To qualify for financial help ranging from $500 to $5,000, applicants must pay property and sales taxes in the city, provide proof of delinquent bills, and evidence of sales and employment changes.

Converse officials aim to issue rewards by the end of September.

“We are asking people to request what funding they will need, and that will be dependent on what the grant will cover,” Kuborn said. “Our grant will cover things like outstanding lease payments, or, if (proprietors) own a building, outstanding mortgage and mortgage interest

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JULY 21 - AUG. 18, 2020

(payments), payroll expenses, past due utility bills and sales taxes.”

Metrocom leaders hope their relief efforts can help area merchants overcome the financial strain COVID-19 wrought this spring, despite some having resumed full-on operations in May. Businesses such as bars have temporarily shuttered again due to a recent surge in COVID-19 cases; restaurants reduced seating capacity from 75 percent to 50 percent under orders from Gov. Greg Abbott.

“We felt it (financial help) was the right thing to do,” Casias said. “Many (Selma owners) have struggled to provide employees assistance, pay rent/ utilities, or find access to personal protective equipment to safely operate, especially as we operate.”

Kuborn said Converse realized the pandemic would create long-term harm. She noted officials contacted 200 employers within 48 hours of the March shutdown.

“When you look at a small-business owner who owns a gym or yoga studio, even at this point right now because of social distancing and face-mask requirements, they may only operate at

L O CA L C O M M U N I T Y N E W S

STIMULUS

15

FINANCIAL GRANTS*

H A P P Y 2 2 N D

LIVE OAK

$215K to 47 businesses

CONVERSE

B I R

accepting applications

T H D D A

$250K SELMA

$150K

with 15 applicants

UNIVERSAL CITY

$438K to 54 businesses * As of press deadline

(BUSINESSES) ARE STILL TRYING TO CATCH UP.

JIMSI KUBORN, CONVERSE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORP. DIRECTOR

Y Jason Villegas is wiping down the bar at The South Chicken & Waffles restaurant in The Forum at Olympia Parkway July 11. The eatery is one of 40-plus Live Oak businesses to receive grant assistance from the city during the COVID-19 pandemic that go toward paying bills. Photo by Jose T. Garza III

25 percent of their income that they were (at) a year ago,” she said. “Just because businesses are reopening doesn’t mean they are at full capacity, and they are still trying to catch up from the detriment from being either fully closed or partially open.”

Each municipality has a set of criteria to determine those companies viable for aid.

Selma-based employers must resume operations somewhere within the city, demonstrate a 20 percent loss in revenue or employment from March 1 to Dec. 31, employ less than 15 full-time staffers, be registered with the Texas Comptroller’s office as a sales-tax revenue generating business for the city, and be in good standing with City Hall regarding

licensing and permits.

To be considered, Live Oak organizations must be in operation and maintain the same number of personnel from December 2019 through the end of 2020, and pay no more than 50 workers.

Selma employers can seek financial assistance via the city’s website, https:// www.ci.selma.tx.us; Live Oak merchants can apply in person at the town’s headquarters, 8001 Shin Oak Drive, or its website, https://www.liveoaktx.net; Converse operators can go online at https://www. conversetx.net.

Find this story and more at www. localcommunitynews.com.

LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM

H A P P Y 2 2 N D B I R

H A

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FREEDOM To breathe fresh air, eat nutritious food, drink clean water, heal one’s body. These are luxuries/ freedoms we forget about as we feel our freedom to congregate removed. Air conditioning, sharing our voice, worshipping our God, enjoying the bounty of the homes we live in, knowledge through books or internet, we have so much still. We will get through this better than ever. The COVID-19 virus has changed us but humans have survived through the centuries.

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L O CA L C O M M U N I T Y N E W S

COMMUNITY

JULY 21 - AUG. 18, 2020

Cibolo officials tackling neighbors’ garden parkinglot concerns SPACE HONORS FORMER COUNCILMAN PEDDE AND DREAM OF CONNECTIVITY

by JOSE T. GARZA III

CIBOLO — City officials are taking measures to ensure a community space honoring a former councilman’s memory remains a place everyone can peacefully enjoy.

Noisy activities from the parking lot at Ron Pedde Memorial Community Garden, which

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opened in 2018 and is connected to Schlather Park, were addressed at the May 12 City Council meeting via a letter read by Mayor Stosh Boyle and written by resident Randall Hawkins, who was unable to attend due to restrictions caused by the novel coronavirus.

Hawkins has lived eight years in the Bentwood Ranch neighborhood, which the garden sits behind.

Among the incidents Hawkins said he and neighbors have noticed are car racing, vehicle and motorcycle training sessions without supervision, football practices and soccer games, and rifleshooting lessons.

Issues of light pollution and pet owners leaving dog waste on the parking lot’s grounds were also mentioned.

The town has since resolved the illumination problem by installing shields around the light fixtures so the brightness doesn’t pervade Bentwood Ranch neighbors’ homes, City Manager Robert Herrera said in a telephone interview.

Discussion at the council meeting included installing cameras and signage

THEY (CITY) TOOK CARE OF QUITE A FEW THINGS.

RANDALL HAWKINS, CIBOLO RESIDENT

in the parking lot advising pet owners to pick up after their furry friends, but Herrera said municipal funds weren’t available to put up surveillance.

Police have patrolled the park often since May. Other than traffic and loud-music complaints, officers didn’t receive reports of unusual activity, patrol Lt. Brian Nipper said in a telephone interview.

Hawkins commended the city for quickly trying to handle the situation.

“They took care of quite a few things from the get-go,” he said.

“They put the shields up, and the lights are fantastic. They are maintained on a regular basis. (Police do) seem

Cibolo is addressing neighbors’ concerns about incidents in and near the parking lot at the Ron Pedde Memorial Community Garden. The spot is named for the late councilman. Photo by Jose T. Garza III

JULY 21 - AUG. 18, 2020

L O CA L C O M M U N I T Y N E W S

17

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According to Cibolo’s website, volunteers can help at the Ron Pedde Memorial Community Garden, but check first in case restrictions are in place due to COVID-19.

Photo by Jose T. Garza III

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to keep people from allowing their pets to roam freely like they did before. It still happens, but you are going to get it no matter what. There (is) no stopping things like that.”

Hawkins said patience is the key.

“We realize it’s going to take time. We can’t expect everything overnight, but the (neighbors) are good with it,” he said.

Hawkins’ motivation in asking the city to address the issue at the garden’s parking lot was to preserve the memory and vision of Pedde, who served as a councilman from 2007 to 2014, and on multiple prior municipal committees.

He died in May 2016 from esophageal cancer, according to his obituary. Pedde’s goal during his tenure on council was to “connect the community to nature and preserve wildlife,” according to a plaque situated in front of the garden.

Hawkins, who twice met the councilman, wants the garden to be preserved because of the city’s potential plans for it in the future.

The memorial garden is “set in a beautiful natural area of Schlather Park,” according to the city’s website.

“Currently, it is a demonstration garden maintained by the city gardener. …

Beginning in 2021, garden plots will be

available for seasonal rental. Until then, volunteers are always welcome to help and learn gardening.”

Those interested in volunteering at the garden, 1017 Town Creek Road, can email kcraighead@cibolotx.gov, according to the website.

Cibolo officials are looking at installing sidewalks linking Schlather Park and the garden. “(Pedde) was greatly into the park system, and that’s why I said don’t let his memory fade away because it’s not being used for what he would have done with that garden,” he said.

Hawkins noted he reported the disruptive behavior to Cibolo police immediately after it began two years ago, though town officials claimed at the May 12 meeting there weren’t any such accounts.

They later confirmed the calls were routed to Schertz’s dispatch unit, as all nonemergency items are sent there. Also, his use of the garden’s address, rather than his residence, made finding the complaints difficult.

Hawkins said the Police Department apologized for the mix-up.

Find this story and more at www. localcommunitynews.com.

LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM

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18

EDUCATION

L O CA L C O M M U N I T Y N E W S JULY 21 - AUG. 18, 2020

Clemens High School welcomes new principal SIRIZZOTTI HAS ‘A PASSION FOR THE KIDS,’ SUPERINTENDENT SAYS

by EDMOND ORTIZ

SCHERTZ — Amy Sirizzotti’s heart has been in education since sixth grade when she got the chance to tutor younger students with English lessons.

“For the longest time, I wanted to be a police officer or a veterinarian, something like that,” she said. “But, I really liked teaching others.”

Sirizzotti’s adventure in education continues. She became principal of Clemens High School July 1.

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She succeeds Melissa Sosa, who retired after 28 years in the instructional field.

Sirizzotti started her teaching career in 2001 at North East Independent School District’s Tejeda Middle School.

There, she chaired the campus’ English department, taught gifted and talented English, served as University Interscholastic League academic adviser in three subjects, and helped coach girls’ athletics.

Sirizzotti was named assistant principal of curriculum and instruction at MacArthur High School in 2011, later serving as the NEISD gifted and talented coordinator before arriving in the Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City Independent School District in August 2016.

It was then Sirizzotti was hired as assistant principal at Clemens, and named associate principal two years later.

The San Antonio native enjoys

the Schertz-Cibolo area. Despite the region’s growth, it still retains a smalltown atmosphere, she said.

“It’s great being part of a community like this, being part of something bigger than yourself,” she added. “I feel at home here. People automatically accept you.”

Sirizzotti takes the reins at an uncertain time in education. As of press time, Gov. Greg Abbott announced public schools would reopen for classes in the fall for the first time since midMarch.

Texas has seen a surge in positive COVID-19 cases.

While school districts won’t require pupils to be tested for the virus or wear masks on campus, concerned families will be given the flexibility to allow learners to be educated remotely or receive in-person instruction.

Sirizzotti said her goal for 2020-2021 is to ensure students get “an authentic

An artist’s rendering shows design changes to Clemens High School in Schertz, where new Principal Amy Sirizzotti is taking the helm. Photo courtesy MarmonMok Arhictecture

JULY 21 - AUG. 18, 2020

learning experience,” with faculty and staff fully equipped and adaptable.

“I always tell my kids finishing high school that this will be the most important part — the world beyond,” Sirizzotti said. “This is what they’re preparing for.”

“It’s a very unusual time. Everyone should be able to have a semblance of resilience,” she added.

Superintendent Clark Ealy complimented Sirizzotti for having “a passion for kids.”

“She appreciates the tradition of excellence that has been established at Clemens over the years, and understands how important it is to

L O CA L C O M M U N I T Y N E W S

AMY SIRIZZOTTI, CLEMENS HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPAL

IT’S A VERY UNUSUAL TIME.

Clemens High School, home of the Buffaloes, will handle the challenges of COVID-19, says new Principal Amy Sirizzotti.

Photo courtesy MarmonMok Architecture

19

build upon it as education continues to grow and evolve in the 21st century,” Ealy said in a news release.

The recently retired Sosa came to SCUCISD in 1999 as a teacher and coach at Dobie Junior High School.

In 2004, she rose to the administrative ranks, working as an assistant principal at Clemens before serving on the administration team at Steele High School, which had just opened.

Sosa was as an assistant principal at Steele until 2011 when she was named principal of Clemens.

“I can wholeheartedly say that for me it was always about relationships and striving to make a positive impact,” Sosa said.

“My daily interactions with students, staff and colleagues fed my soul.

This is what I will miss the most.”

As of now, Sosa hasn’t formulated any short-term plans.

“This is exhilarating, yet also causes me a bit of anxiety,” she said.

“One thing is for certain, though: I am greatly looking forward to days of unscheduled time, where I can spontaneously go for a hike, kayak, read or meet a friend for coffee.”

Find this story and more at www. localcommunitynews.com.

LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM

What you don’t know can’t Help you: We will be safer from future infections if the WHOLE Community is Healthier and practices ALL preventive precautions. This is SERIOUS! *How can you prevent infections from bacteria & viruses, including the COVID-19 (coronavirus)?

Build up your defenses- AKA your Immunity*

I had attempted to send this information through our Electrical Medical record’s Portal to all my patients, but it was too long. I decided to focus on the whole community so more people can take better care of themselves and their families. Please share this article and stay safe. Do not fear our challenges, but rather act by doing something healthier for yourselves and your community and prepare for any future challenges.

Follow CDC recommendations and Governor’s recommendation to stay safe.

Minimize exposure, get tested and self-quarantine. STOP the spread!

•

Dr. Gloria Wright’s: Natural Preventative measures to enhance your Immunity, Health and Well-being include:

Boost your immune system and defenses by using: 1000 mg of Vitamin C, 3-4 times a day (decrease dosage if stools get too soft).

• Consider Emergen C in your water so you don’t get tired of taking vitamins pills.

• Oral Zinc 80-100mg daily or Zinc Lozenges several times a day. ZINC STOPS THE VIRUSES ABILITY Y TO REPRODUCE, like Tamiflu works on the Flu.*** Billions of Probiotics throughout the day (they are 70% of your immune system)*** Colostrum: Cow immunity from first milk produced for calf. The mother cow puts her immunity into the milk to protect her calf until the little one can jump start its own immunity. Cow colostrum is thought to be similar to human colostrum. *** • Vitamin A supports ALL skin. Topical skin, intestinal skin, nasal, throat, and lung skin. IIf your respiratory tissue is well supplied with oral Vit A it will help you.

• Vit D3 should be maintained at higher blood levels between 40- 70ng/dl to boost immunity (5000iu/ daily) Research is noting that people with lower Vit D3 get viral infections more readily than those with higher levels. Even the Coronavirus.

Note: Vitamin D3 is better absorbed in the presence of Vit A, so take them together.

• Maintain appropriate hydration (to flush and detoxify your system of debris).

• Glutathione 1000mg twice a day helps decrease lung tissue inflammation. *** • Decrease stress, get plenty of sleep, exercise, and eat well. Stress drops your immunity and when you relax you regenerate, restore, and repair (in other words: Heal). Since the Corona virus is destroyed when heated, indulge in exercise to sweat, use hot baths, hot tubs or saunas which will also mimic a fever that stimulates your immunity to look for intruding bacteria and viruses. Get some sun (heat and Vit D3). Perform warm nasal saline rinses.

• Consider HOCATT PLATINUM SAUNA available at our office. (Read up on it)*** Keep bowel movements regular, your body detox’s via our urine, skin (sweat) and poop. In the past, this is why kids were given castor oil when they got sick. To keep them detoxing infectious material via their bowel movements.

Echinacea and Goldenseal (helps to keep nasal and lung tissue clean).

• Young Living Essential Oils-Thieves (protected people during the Bubonic Plague)*** • Xlear Nasal Spray (to nose and throat will keep anything in the air from attaching to your respiratory tissue d/t the Xylitol sweetener that is not absorbable)*** Consider chewing Gum with Xylitol, as you chew, your mouth & throat will be coated with Xylitol making it too slippery for bacteria or viruses to attach.

• Allergen block gel when applied to the outside of the nose and upper lip to trap particles from entering nose. Since the air particles in the air are negatively charged, they are magnetized out of your inhalation by attaching to the gel that has a positive charge.

• Home and car air purifiers: Home AC/Heating units can have a UV light installed on the outlet vent that will kill mold, bacteria and Viruses. Our office had it installed for this season and the air smells clean.

Call your AC installer and they can install it for you. It is worth the investment! The UV light system installed in our is the REMO brand.

• Eat greens and make sure you are getting minerals-electrolytes that maintain good cellular boundaries.

Minerals charge your body and green plants get minerals from the soil. This is why we don’t have to ea at dirt. So, eat your fruits and green veggies.

• Drink ASEA REDOX: read about it online or call Fleeta Taylor at (210) 264-1556. *** Means it is available at our office. Call us at 210-654-9300, you can purchase from us.

What Total Health Primary Care is doing to keep our staff and patients safe: 1.

We are following CDC and State anti-viral and anti-bacterial protocols.

2.

TELEMEDICINE/VIDEO medical consults with your provider by phone will be offered to minimize office visits.

Yes, this will be covered according to your insurance plan.

3.

HEALTHY WELLNESS APPOINTMENTS will be scheduled earlier in the day for our physical exams, preoperative exams, diabetic checkups, Hypertension rechecks, Medication recheck and refills, Paps, lab results...

4.

We are SCREENING PATIENTS that may have symptoms of COVID-19 BY TELEPHONE VIA TELEMEDICINE and decide if they need testing. If they do, we’ll direct them to testing sites outside our office..

If suffering from the symptoms Safe Service for all!

5.

MANDATORY WEARING OF MASKS: All of our staff and patients are required to wear masks to protect everyone.

6.

WE HAVE TAKEN EXTRA PRECAUTIONS including air purifiers in the reception area and down each of the provider’s halls, each exam room and medical assistance workspace.

7.

We have installed ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT air PURIFIERS in all 6 of our commercial HVAC units that will kill VIRUSES, bacteria, and mold 24/7. This will produce cleaner air into our breathing space. (We have spent > $14,000.00 to keep our office air clean.)

8.

CLEANING EXAM ROOMS WITH BLEACH solution routinely and after every patient.

9.

SPECIAL SOCIAL DISTANCING of patients coming in for appointments. You will be asked to call when you arrive and wait in your car until a Medical Assistant can call you to meet at the front door to you to check yourr temperature before allowed to come into the building with a mask.

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L O CA L C O M M U N I T Y N E W S JULY 21 - AUG. 18, 2020

Girl Scout’s project eases ER fears for kids RANDOLPH HIGH SCHOOL GRAD EARNS TOP AWARD

by COLLETTE ORQUIZ

SCHERTZ — Assembling activity bags to help ease children’s anxieties during visits to a local emergency center earned Girl Scout Madison Wright her Gold Award.

The recent graduate of Randolph High School garnered the highest commendation for Girl Scouts after compiling and distributing more than 100

Schertz Girl Scout Madison Wright earned a Gold Award after collecting and assembling activity bags for children nervous about visiting an emergency clinic. Volunteers at her church helped with the project. Courtesy photo

JULY 21 - AUG. 18, 2020

L O CA L C O M M U N I T Y N E W S

kits to the Schertz Cibolo Emergency Clinic through Trinkets for Tykes.

“I’m happy I did it,” Wright said.

“Toddlers for the most part, elementary school kids, they just don’t have the coping skills yet; they haven’t developed that. Everything is just to calm them down.”

The Troop 2120 member said the project and award will remain high points in her life. The Schertz troop is led by Teresa Fahlsing.

“It’s a privilege. You put the work in and it’s rewarding,” Wright said. “It’s a level of respect and admiration and it feels cool.”

Stacy Husted, director of marketing at the emergency facility, said staffers distributed every bag over four months.

The clinic is at 4825 FM 3009, Suite 200.

“It’s a wonderful distraction for the smaller kids, with the unknown and the fear of coming to the (clinic) for whatever reason,” she said.

Wright’s task included researching what items reduced emotional stress for her target group — youngsters from grade schools. Her mother, a former Air Force ER nurse who still works in the field, provided guidance.

Each kit contained a pocket-sized coloring book, a pack of crayons, sticker pages, mini stress balls and slap bracelets.

“She did her homework getting things that were stimulating for feel, touch and the whole thing. She really put thought in. She didn’t just throw stuff in there,” Husted said.

From July to November 2019, Wright worked on her project for 96 hours, despite several other endeavors requiring her attention — college admission tests, university applications and extracurricular activities, including varsity tennis, tutoring and her church functions at Joint Base San Antonio-

21

Randolph Chapel.

“She did a very good job,” Husted said.

The church’s middle school group, led by Theresa Gould, got involved. Not only did the ministry help with funding, but also its youth members assisted in filling the bags.

Kits took a day to assemble; Wright followed up with a presentation, which included a slide show.

“I think for most of them this was the first type of community service act that they’ve done. I think they liked it and they had fun,” the Scout said.

Girl Scouts, faith and service have always been instrumental to Wright.

Her parents served in the Army, Air Force and Air Force Reserve. Born in Japan, she’s also lived stateside in Mississippi, South Carolina and Oklahoma towns.

“The one thing every city has is a church and Girl Scouts, so I would always try to go there,” she said.

Wright plans to attend the University of Texas at San Antonio this fall and major in biology with a minor in chemistry.

Like her mother, she wants to be a nurse. Wright hopes to join ROTC and receive an Air Force commission after obtaining a degree.

She wishes other Girl Scouts would continue aiding area children, including making more kits.

“If I could carry her bags yearround, I would absolutely do it,” Husted said.

Those interested in helping can call the clinic at 210-202-1123 or visit schertzhealth.com.

Find this story and more at www. localcommunitynews.com.

LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM

22 EAT

L O CA L C O M M U N I T Y N E W S JULY 21 - AUG. 18, 2020

LEARN ABOUT THE NEWEST NEIGHBORHOOD PLACES FOR BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER.

Pancake house plans fall debut

by COLLETTE ORQUIZ

CIBOLO — Construction delays caused by the pandemic means diners must wait a little longer for Magnolia Pancake Haus’ famous buttermilk flapjacks and corned-beef hash.

The restaurant — the third in the San Antonio area — could open by November at 17730 Interstate 35 North.

Tricia Fleming Schleicher, company vice

president and daughter of owner Robert Fleming, acknowledged the disruption caused by COVID-19, but said they’re ready to fill the demand for a quality meal.

The restaurant’s mission is “to create a dining experience so enjoyable the guests can’t wait to come back,” Schleicher said.

A stand-alone building will house the family-owned and operated eatery. The first two spots are at 606 Embassy Oaks St. in the Embassy Oaks shopping center and 10333 Huebner Road near the South Texas

Medical Center.

“Our teams do a phenomenal job of always making sure that we provide that great customer experience,” Schleicher said.

Fleming started in food service some 50 years ago. He and his wife owned a Cajun restaurant in the 1980s, moved to Dallas and then returned to San Antonio.

“It’s just something that my dad always kind of had ingrained in him, just being a restaurateur, working in restaurants,” Schleicher

Magnolia Pancake Haus expects to debut in Cibolo during November with a menu similar to dishes at its two San Antonio locations. Complications from COVID-19 have delayed construction, a company official said. Courtesy photo

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17730 Interstate 35 North in Cibolo For more, visit magnoliapancakehaus.com

JULY 21 - AUG. 18, 2020

L O CA L C O M M U N I T Y N E W S

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ST R RT OK IFI E ED ER IN TI J FIE U D RY

BR AI C N

CE

Nationally Recognized Care– It Matters!

Nationally recognized rehabilitative care is available just a short drive north.

New Braunfels Regional Rehabilitation Hospital is ranked in the U.S. in the Top 10% for patient care, and is nationally certified by The Joint Commission in both Stroke and Brain Injury Rehabilitation.

We treat patients recovering from or living with disabilities caused by injuries, illnesses, and chronic medical conditions, such as:

The Farmer’s Scramble (above), with three scrambled eggs, smoked sausage, crispy shredded potatoes and toped with cheddar cheese, as well as German-inspired apple pancakes (top) will be offered at the new Magnolia Pancake Haus coming to Cibolo. Courtesy photos

said.

Magnolia will serve breakfast and lunch featuring a similar menu to its sister locations. Schleicher said the eatery is known for its varieties of buttermilk pancakes including blueberry, chocolate chip and bacon, plus the apfel pfannekuchen, a German-style pancake.

The recipe comes from Schleicher’s great-grandmother, who lived in Munich.

The corned-beef hash — brined, smoked and cured in-house — earned recognition from the Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.”

“Our patrons know that anytime

they come here, if it’s been a week, if it’s been two weeks, two months, two years, it’s going to be the same thing that they got the last time they were here because we really make sure that everything that we produce is the same,” Schleicher said.

This venue will most resemble the Huebner Road site, but without a beer garden.

“I’m kind of taking over the business a little bit and transitioning it to a little more new-age feel. It’ll still have a grandma’s feel, but just maybe a little more modern,” Schleicher said.

Find this EAT Local at www. localcommunitynews.com.

LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM

• Strokes • Brain injuries • Spinal cord injuries • Parkinson’s disease • Other debilitating conditions Where you receive care matters. For more information, call 830-625-6700 or visit NBRRH.ernesthealth.com.

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