CIBOLO • CONVERSE • GARDEN RIDGE • LIVE OAK • SCHERTZ • SELMA • UNIVERSAL CITY • WINDCREST
LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS LOCA LCOMMU NI TYNE WS.CO M | VO L . 8, I SSUE 4 | O C T. 2 0 - NOV. 17, 2020
FOR THE LATEST ON LOCAL RACES PG. 14
FF O E R A U Q S S E T A ID D N CONVERSE CA TABORA PLACE 4
HINZ PLACE 2
KESSLER
SILVAS
PLACE 2
PLACE 4
SOTO PLACE 4
ANGULO
SHIPP PLACE 2
GILBERT PLACE 6
PG. 07
COMPLETE CALENDAR LIST TO PLAN AHEAD
PG. 08
LOCAL LOWDOWN
PG. 22
EAT LOCAL
HAPPENING LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS AND BUSINESS OPENINGS
WAYNE”S WINGS 36 VARIETIES ON MENU
PLACE 4
LINDGREN PLACE 6
PG. 12 | GOVERNMENT
BUDGETS APPROVED Metrocom cities ready for Fiscal Year 2020-21
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You can vote at any location.
You can vote early.
You can vote safely.
That’s right, it’s your vote!
Find everything you need to know about early, easy and safe voting at bexar.org. And be sure and check the ballot online before you head to the polls so you can get in and out faster. Learn more at bexar.org This public service message is brought to you by Bexar County.
4 STAFF OCT. 20 - NOV. 17, 2020
Keeping Bexar County businesses Strong during COVID-19.
PUBLISHER Jaselle Luna EDITORIAL Editor
Thomas Edwards News Staff
Edmond Ortiz Contributing Writers
Olivier J. Bourgoin, Arthur Schechter and Susan Yerkes ART Designer
E. Fisher Contributing Artist
Jeremiah Teutsch ADVERTISING Senior Media Representatives
Dawn Radick and Joanne Torres Multimedia Account Representative
Michael Valdelamar Controller
Even before any national pandemic support was created, Bexar County developed and implemented an $11,750,000 loan and grant fund to help micro and small Bexar County businesses weather the COVID-19 storm. The programs, administered for Bexar County by LiftFund of Texas, have helped over 850 businesses stay open and provide continued employment opportunities for hundreds of Bexar County residents. Together, we will all get through this difficult time. Because together, we are Bexar County Strong.
Gracie Cortinez READER SERVICE Mailing Address
4204 Gardendale St., Ste. 107, San Antonio, TX 78229 Phone: (210) 338-8842 Fax: (210) 465-9455 ADVERTISING INQUIRIES Advertising@localcommunitynews.com STORY IDEAS: tips@localcommunitynews.com EDITOR CONTACT tedwards@localcommunitynews.com Reproduction in whole or in part without our permission is prohibited, 2020 Local Community News LLC, all rights reserved.
OUR OTHER PUBLICATIONS
Bexar County
STRONG See our latest Impact Report at
BexarCountyStrong.org
North Central SA: 78204, 78205, 78209, 78210, 78212, 78215 North SA - Stone Oak: 78213, 78216, 78230, 78231, 78232, 78248, 78249, 78258, 78259 South San Antonio: 78204, 78210, 78214, 78223, 78235
ON THE COVER – It’s been said the Nov. 3 general election is one of the most important in decades. LOCAL Community News turns the spotlight on races affecting the Randolph Metrocom — congressional, state and county, plus city council races in Converse, Schertz and Windcrest. Coverage begins on pg. 14. Illustration by E. Fisher
The LOCAL Community News editorial board includes Jaselle Luna and Thomas Edwards.
TALK LOCAL
Law and order CALLS TO DEFUND POLICE DEPARTMENTS are not only misguided but radically dangerous. The men and women in blue are enforcers of the peace, with a job more rewarding and more difficult than most can imagine. Sure, there are some bad apples. However, taking livelihoods away from all peace officers for the actions of a few will not usher in a golden age, only undermine their effectiveness. The majority of officers joined to protect and serve. Training on de-escalation, cultural sensitivity and more community policing offer solutions. Meanwhile, the public could also show a little more civility to officers during an encounter, instead of adjudicating from the curb. While reformers with good intentions say defunding the police means shifting financial resources to social, education and anti-poverty programs, we know what the road to hell is paved with. The San Antonio City Council wisely did not approve any cuts to the police force. “(Crooks) are going to speed up, they’re going to accelerate” if the police are defunded, warns Brandon Tatum, a Black retired police officer, on his YouTube channel. Taking resources away from departments will lead to layoffs, the hiring of inferior candidates, poor training, fewer patrols and inadequate equipment. The only winners will be the criminals. Send your thoughts on whether to defund police departments to tedwards@localcommunitynews.com.
.
Water
we doing to help? Suspending service cutoffs in this time of emergency.
Worrying about paying your water bill doesn’t need to be an added stressor during this time of uncertainty. Your neighbors at the San Antonio Water System want to make sure no family ever has to be disconnected because they can’t pay their bills. Our Uplift program eases the burden of paying your monthly water bill with 14 initiatives to assist customers who need a little help. Learn how SAWS helps ensure your water stays connected during times of emergencies and financial hardship by calling 210-233-CARE(2273) or visiting saws.org/uplift.
OPINION
6
L O CA L C O M M U N I T Y N E W S OCT. 20 - NOV. 17, 2020
Silver linings by SUSAN YERKES
THIS FALL, “back to school” has been anything but back to normal.
From online instruction to masks and distanced classrooms, the pandemic is changing education. Most campuses have reopened to some extent, and progress is likely to continue. But, the going has been tough for parents, teachers, administrators and children. Long-term, several lessons emerged from the Herculean effort in March to keep kids connected to instruction when the novel coronavirus started spreading. Today, it seems the storm clouds of COVID-19 may even have some silver linings. The outbreak helped change minds about the importance of distance learning. “It has really forced our hand on
some things — for instance, getting public schools online in ways that were long overdue,” a veteran teacher told me. While the mad scramble to get educators and learners linked to digital devices last spring proved a nightmare for many, it brought communities
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together in ways only a crisis can. Technological advances, maybe delayed because of extra effort and expense, got fast-tracked. Indeed, virtual learning has some parents feeling more plugged into their children’s education, instructors and institutions. “I do think the digital needs did move education forward, and continue to do so in a short period of time,” said Principal Mary Jewell of Northside Independent School District’s Rudder Middle School. Parents and teachers continue to adapt, although it has been difficult for a few adults. Younger students adjusted the quickest, according to educators. Teachers have emerged as heroes, working overtime and reaching out to students with Zoom conferences and personal help. Most districts have set up resources to assist pupils and parents with digital issues. While there have been plenty of glitches and crashes, over time, connections will improve as technology is more smoothly integrated. Though online events and classes may lack the feel of being there in person, the experience reaches a far wider audience. Local arts institutions sprang into action to develop or refine learning modules, making virtual visits more fun and educational. However, San Antonio still faces a
drastic digital divide. Despite students receiving Chromebooks and other data devices in record time, maintaining connectivity became the elephant in the virtual classroom. The National Digital Inclusion Alliance’s “Worst Connected Cities 2018” found nearly 20% of San Antonio households lacked workable broadband connections. In some areas, up to 25% of learners didn’t reconnect with schools following Spring Break, plus numerous parents were hard to contact, educators said. Nimble solutions helped, such as the cooperation between NISD, the San Antonio Independent School District, the San Antonio Housing Authority and VIA Metropolitan Transit with the dispatch of VIAtrans vans around town providing Wi-Fi hot spots. In the future, a San Antonio Office of Innovation Smart City coordinator told me, special nodes attached to high-tech streetlights, or smart lights, could send wireless communications into underserved areas. Meanwhile, simple steps could make a big difference, such as getting Congress to extend the Federal Communications Commission’s E-rate program for affordable mobile hot spots to cover homes in some areas. For now, though, the best news for many is just getting kids back to school. syerkes@localcommunitynews.com
One of the most well-respected and award-winning 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.
OCT. 20 - NOV. 17, 2020
OCTOBER
PLAN YOUR MONTH WITH OUR CALENDAR OF UPCOMING EVENTS IN THE COMMUNITY.
L O CA L C O M M U N I T Y N E W S
City Councils/ School Districts
Schertz: 6 p.m. Oct. 27 & Nov. 10; 1400 Schertz Parkway Live Oak: 7 p.m. Oct. 27 & Nov. 10; 8001 Shin Oak Drive Cibolo: 6:30 p.m. Oct. 27 & Nov. 10; 200 S. Main St. Converse: 7 p.m. Oct. 20 & Nov. 3, 17; 406 S. Seguin Road Garden Ridge: 6 p.m. Nov. 4; 9400 Municipal Parkway
HAPPENING Selma: 6:30 p.m. Nov. 12; 9375 Corporate Drive Windcrest: 6 p.m. Nov. 2, 16; 8601 Midcrown Drive Universal City: 6:30 p.m. Oct. 20 & Nov. 3, 17; 2150 Universal City Blvd. Comal ISD: 6 p.m. Oct. 22; 1404 Interstate 35 North in New Braunfels North East ISD: 5:30 p.m. Nov. 9; 8961 Tesoro Drive in San Antonio Judson ISD: 7 p.m. Nov. 19; 8205 Palisades Drive in Live Oak
Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City ISD: 6 p.m. Oct. 20 & Nov. 17; 1060 Elbel Road in Schertz
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. LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM
OCT. 23
DINNER IS SERVED American Legion Auxiliary Unit 667, 504 Bowie Drive in Universal City, serves chickenfried steak from 5-7 p.m. Call 210-658-3731.
OCT. 24
CIBOLO CREEK CLEANUP Meet at 9374 Valhalla Drive in Selma and help clean up Cibolo Creek from 9 a.m. to noon. Trash bags, protective gloves and refreshments provided. For updates, visit https:// www.ci.selma.tx.us/Calendar. aspx?EID=312&month=10&year=2020&day=28&calType=0. HAPPENING continues on pg. 10
7
LOWDOWN
8
L O CA L C O M M U N I T Y N E W S OCT. 20 - NOV. 17, 2020
TAKE A QUICK LOOK AT WHAT’S NEW IN THE COMMUNITY FROM OPENINGS AND CLOSINGS TO NEWS TIDBITS.
Open and Opening Soon WAYNE’S WINGS, 4453 Walzem Road, is the brainchild of Dwayne Price, a veteran of several local San Antonio diners. The main dish, of course, is wings — 36 different styles. Due to COVID-19, orders are to-go or delivery only, and must be made online. Hours are 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday, plus 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday. For more, visit www.wayneswingssa.com or www.facebook.com/WaynesWings-1101864259866729. (See story on page 22)
RED FEATHER HEALING, 2041 Universal City Blvd. in Universal City, offers “holistic all-natural and handcrafted products”
including salt lamps, sage fans, gemstone jewelry, scrubs, lotions, herbal teas, tinctures, chakra candles, soaps and more, according to a release. Holistic practices include psychic mediumship, tarot- and oracle-card reading, Reiki, access bars, sound healing and more. Hours are 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday. For more, call 210-541-4071 or visit www. rfhealing.com.
AMERICANA COFFEE & ESPRESSO BAR, 816 Main St., Suite G in Schertz, offers various coffee drinks, teas, sandwiches, pastries and other items. Hours are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. For more, call 210-236-7222 or visit americana.coffee/.
IN OTHER NEWS:
CONVERSE POLICE CHIEF RUBEN SAUCEDO IS THE LATEST OFFICER to
www.
localcommunitynews.com
DIGITAL
For your community news updates, p events, coupons p and more!
STAY SOCIALL
leave the department, tendering his resignation Sept. 21. At press time, his position had not been filled. “Circumstances with my family will not allow me to dedicate the time necessary to fulfill the requirements of this position,” Saucedo wrote in his resignation letter. The Converse Police Officers Association on its Facebook page expressed concerns with six officers leaving the Police Department by the end of September, adding their departures — including moves to other area law-enforcement agencies — were not due to pay or benefits. In another CPOA Facebook post, the organization bid farewell to Detective Eric Guidry, who left after four years with the force. Assistant Chief Pam Hunt is listed as the current highest-ranking Police Department official.
RACHEL GOLDSMITH IS THE NEW CHIEF OPERATING OFFCER at Methodist Hospital | Northeast. Previously vice president of operations, business development, and strategy at Methodist Hospital and Methodist Children’s Hospital, Goldsmith started her latest role Sept. 1.
CONVERSE RESIDENT AND MARINE CORPS VETERAN Jacob Tabora’s home recently underwent upgrades for the national television show “Military Makeover with Montel,” airing on Lifetime and the Armed Forces Network. The program, hosted by TV personality Montel Williams, who saw service both in the Marines and Navy, enlists local designers, contractors, landscapers and other home-improvement professionals to help transform the residences and lives of veterans nationwide. After completing his first tour in Iraq, Tabora was a tank gunner based in Twentynine Palms, California, when a 120 mm round malfunctioned and exploded inside his armored vehicle. Tabora suffered secondand third-degree burns over more than half his body. He spent five years in burn-recovery care at Brooke Army Medical Center. Afterward, Tabora enrolled at Northeast Lakeview College, where he met his wife, Ceanna. They have three children. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from the University of Texas at San Antonio. Tabora also is a Converse City Council candidate. Army veteran Chad Dillard, owner of Fresh Coat Painters in Schertz, helped update the Taboras’ home. Find Local Lowdown at www. localcommunitynews.com.
THIS SURE BEATS ANOTHER FROZEN DINNER Elevate your dining routine and leave the dishes to us. Esplanade Gardens offers All Day Dining, enriching activities and highly skilled care teams so you can live as independently as you want with the support you need. Especially now, the value and benefits of senior living far outweigh staying home alone.
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Five-star Medicare plan. Five-star quality and service. Take advantage of a top-rated Medicare Advantage plan — only from UnitedHealthcare.® UnitedHealthcare is proud to receive 5 out of 5 stars+ in 2020 which means you can enroll in this plan at any time throughout the year. AARP® Medicare Advantage SecureHorizons® (HMO) plan may include:. Comprehensive dental coverage
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Angelique Lassetter Licensed Sales Representative 512-648-0911, TTY 711 AARPMedicarePlans.com Every year, Medicare evaluates plans based on a 5-star rating system. +CMS Star Rating applies to H4590-010-000, which includes AARP® Medicare Advantage SecureHorizons® (HMO) in the state of Texas. This plan is rated 5 out of 5 stars for 2020. You may enroll only once during the Special Enrollment Period (SEP), December 8 – November 30. Benefits, features and/or devices vary by plan/area. Limitations and exclusions apply. Plans are insured through UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or one of its affiliated companies, a Medicare Advantage organization with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in the plan depends on the plan’s contract renewal with Medicare. UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company pays royalty fees to AARP for the use of its intellectual property. These fees are used for the general purposes of AARP. AARP and its affiliates are not insurers. You do not need to be an AARP member to enroll. AARP encourages you to consider your needs when selecting products and does not make specific product recommendations for individuals. AARP does not employ or endorse agents, producers or brokers. ©2019 United HealthCare Services, Inc. All rights reserved. SPRJ51855 H4590_191029_113532_M 002BA92B
Accepting Medicare-eligible patients!
AT S C H E R T Z
WellMed at Schertz 1739 Schertz Pkwy, Schertz, TX 78154 (210) 491-8179 WellMedHealthCare.com | facebook.com/WellMed
*NOTE: To help provide care for COVID-19, Medicare has expanded its coverage of telehealth services. Medicare beneficiaries can temporarily use telehealth services for common office visits, mental health counseling and preventive health screenings with no co-pay. WellMed does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability in its health programs and activities. ATTENTION: If you speak English, language assistance services, free of charge, are available to you. Please call 888-781-WELL (9355). ATENCIÓN: Si habla español (Spanish), hay servicios de asistencia de idiomas, sin cargo, a su disposición. Llame al 888-781-WELL (9355). 請注意：如果您說中文(Chinese), 我們免費為您提供語言協助服務。請致電：888-781-WELL (9355)。 REV_20-4012_WM_FPAD_COVID_SA_MGE_C033120
10
Medicare Eligible?
L O CA L C O M M U N I T Y N E W S OCT. 20 - NOV. 17, 2020
WWW.AHIABENEFITS.COM HAPPENING continues from pg. 07
OCT. 24, 31
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THROUGH OCT. 31
Jump in the car and enjoy Selma’s drivethru Halloween at 6:30 p.m. Oct. 24 at Ben E. Keith Foods, 17635 Ben E. Keith Way in Selma. Wear costumes to the free event. For updates, visit https://www. ci.selma.tx.us. Live Oak will do a similar activity Oct. 31. At press time, details were still being finalized. Visit www. liveoaktx.net/news-and-events/view/ halloween-drive-thru-event.
GET A PUMPKIN
OCT. 26 & NOV. 9
THROUGH OCT. 31
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the club meets from noon to 1 p.m. via Zoom. After restrictions are lifted, the club sits down at Olympia Hills Golf & Event Center, 12900 Mount Olympus St. in Universal City. 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, at 210-683-1169 or visit www. randolphmetrocomrotary.org.
Schertz is celebrating Halloween with spooky, physically distanced activities. “Fangs for the Memories” runs through Oct. 25. Take photos at four in-town pumpkin-patch locations. From Oct. 26-31, enjoy “Fa-BOO-lous,” a virtual costume contest. Top off the holiday with a treat trail sponsored by The Chamber called “Candy Cruisin’” from noon to 5 p.m. Oct. 31. For specific details of all the events, plus updates or cancellations, visit https://www. schertz.com/1990/A-Spooky-SocialDistanced.
RANDOLPH METROCOM ROTARY AHIA SUITES & CALL CENTER
com/go/10c0d4ea9a822a7fcc70trunkortreat.
OCT. 30-NOV. 1 & NOV. 6-8
ANNUAL FALL CLEANUP IN CIBOLO Residents can discard nonhazardous waste at the City Hall parking lot, 200 S. Main St., from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. For updates, visit https://www.cibolotx.gov/ CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=458.
OCT. 31
TRUNK OR TREAT In the age of COVID-19, Garden Ridge is improvising on the Halloween tradition with a trunk-or-treat rendition. Decorate your car and park from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the City Hall parking lot, 9400 Municipal Parkway. For updates or cancellations, visit https://www.signupgenius.
The Universal City pumpkin patch, 2150 Universal City Blvd., is open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday through Sunday and 3-7 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday. Follow COVID-19 safety protocols. For updates or cancellations, visit http:// www.universalcitytexas.com/1011/ Universal-City-Pumpkin-Patch.
SCHERTZ HALLOWEEN
OCTOBER/NOVEMBER THE CHAMBER EVENTS
The Chamber (Schertz-CiboloSelma area) offers several monthly activities. Upcoming events include two 11:15 a.m. to 1 p.m. luncheons at Schertz Civic Center, 1400 Schertz Parkway (Building 5). The first, Oct. 20, features guest speaker Amy House; the second, Nov. 17, is an awards banquet. For updates or cancellations, visit www.thechamber. info. HAPPENING continues on pg. 20
Are you a Type 1 or Type 2 diabetic OR do you take medications to control your Cholesterol?
Northeast Clinical Research of San Antonio is conducting research trials for men and women with Diabetes AND/OR require treatment for high cholesterol. Participants with or without Cardiac Events are welcome. Type Ty y 2 Pediatric/Adolescents also welcome. If you are eligible to participate in these research studies you will receive the following at no cost:
• Physical Exams • Laboratory Testing • Research Related Care
• You will receive money for travel expenses • Flexible scheduling • Glucose Testing Supplies
For more information please contact: Northeast Clinical Research of San Antonio, LLC Dr. Laura Akright 5000 Schertz Pkwy. Suite 200 • Schertz, TX 78154
(210) 581-0045
Discover the plan that may give you more. Honore Ligarde
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IMAGINE A HEALTH CARE TEAM THAT ACTUALLY WORKS TOGETHER.
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L O CA L C O M M U N I T Y N E W S OCT. 20 - NOV. 17, 2020
City budgets OK’d by EDMOND ORTIZ
Accepting New Patients Your health is our number one priority. For for more information about WellMed, call 210-905-4270 (toll free). Calling this number will direct you to The Brokerage, a licensed insurance agency.*
Andrea Gabel, MD Family Medicine Mae Martinez, MD Family Medicine
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• The Highest Quality Crystals and Gems • and so much more including all your Halloween needs
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Meet a couple of our Practitioners: Tracy St. Croi - Afterlife Connection Specialist Tue & Thu and every other Fri & Sat Go to https://www.tracystcroimedium.as.me/to make an appointment Yuci Edwards - Reiki, Hypnotherapy, Numerology, Angel Guiding, Akashic Records, Tarot Readings and Coffee cup mapping-Tue-Fri to make an appointment go to Phone:210-452-7303 / email: yuciedwards@gmail.com
Red Feather Healing provides on site Psychic Mediumship, Tarot and Oracle Card Reading, Reiki, Access Bars (coming soon), Sound & Crystal Healing, and Singing Bowls
Locally Veteran Owned Small Business
RFHealing.com • 210-541-4071 • 2041 Universal City Blvd
a church for real life
NEW SERVICE TIMES: 9:30 AM & 11:30 AM 16765 Lookout Rd. Selma, TX 78154 • reallife.org
THOUGH THE PANDEMIC forced cuts to San Antonio’s budget, the city managed to reinstate money for roads and community services while increasing police funding.
The latter drew fire from law-enforcement reform advocates. Randolph Metrocom cities, meanwhile, are balancing their spending and revenues. San Antonio’s $2.9 billion total budget includes a return of more than $40 million in street maintenance deferred in the 2020 budget last spring when the pandemic hit. Altogether, San Antonio’s new ledger allocates $102 million citywide on road repairs and $18 million on sidewalk upgrades. District 10 City Councilman Clayton Perry lauded restoring money for roads. “(The previous cuts added) to our backlog that continuously builds up every year and it’s critical we don’t fall too far behind,” he said. San Antonio’s 2021 balance sheet also has more than $61 million combined for affordable housing, mental health and drug treatment, and homelessness initiatives, including creating 11 outreach teams — one for each council district and downtown. Cuts were made in various departments to accommodate COVID-19 response and recovery initiatives, and shortfalls in touristand convention-related revenue streams damaged by the coronavirus outbreak. The latest budget disappointed residents who sought to reduce Police Department funding following
protests against social injustice and unnecessary force. Instead, the allocation grew 1.7%. Officers also received a 5% raise as mandated by the city’s collective bargaining agreement with the police union. Regarding cries to defund police, City Manager Erik Walsh proposed “a deliberate process” for the council, staff, police chief, and community “to define what we want the police to engage in the future.”
CIBOLO The town’s FY 2021 generalfund budget includes $14.8 million in expenses — 1.7% greater than FY 2020, and $14.5 million in revenues, slightly more than last year thanks to higher appraisals. In this new fiscal year, Cibolo will build its third fire station, along FM 1103, and plans more commercial growth. The burg is dropping its total property-tax rate from 49.3 cents per $100 valuation to 49.1.
CONVERSE The municipal budget contains $15.67 million in expenditures, including increased employee pay and benefits, additional positions
OCT. 20 - NOV. 17, 2020
L O CA L C O M M U N I T Y N E W S
13
3D LASER FOOT SCANNER
custom
3D across five city departments, the purchase of two new patrol vehicles, and replacement of computer equipment and Fire Department gear. The financial plan also funds the town’s matching grant portion to establish a senior center in the old City Hall conference area. Converse’s general-fund revenue is projected to go up $15.60 million. The tax rate is increasing from 49.2 cents to 50.2. The annual tax on the average local homestead is rising from $846 to $900.
GARDEN RIDGE The operational budget projects $3.02 million in costs, a $2.91 million rise from 2020, with more money for police, public works, the community center and library. Municipal officials project $3.03 million in revenues, higher than $2.91 million for FY 2020. The city is keeping the tax rate at 32.1 cents. The owner of the averagevalued home should expect to pay nearly $1,592 in taxes this year.
LIVE OAK The town’s balanced $14.6 million operational budget is lower than the $16.6 million general-fund budget for FY 2020, but fire and police funding is increasing. Live Oak’s new balance sheet has a 1.5% market pay adjustment for all employees, and replacement of the main city park’s playscape. The tax rate decreases from 41.4 cents to 41.2. The average homestead tax climbs from $596 to $631.
SCHERTZ The $37.2 million general-fund budget is 2.7% bigger than its 2020 counterpart. The ledger supports an update of the city’s comprehensive land-use plan and unified
development code, $290,000 in facilities maintenance, and $500,000 in capital improvements program funding. Schertz is keeping its 51.4-cent tax rate. The average home value rises $11,300.
SELMA Its total $22 million budget is 4% smaller than the FY 2020 one. “The main driver for this decrease is the uncertainty of sales-tax collections for the foreseeable future,” City Administrator Johnny Casias said. Selma’s 2021 financial plan supports additional Fire Department equipment, three replacement police patrol vehicles and reconstruction of the city’s portion of Evans Road. The municipality is maintaining its 19.6cent tax rate.
UNIVERSAL CITY The burg’s general-fund budget projects $13.9 million in revenue, $13.3 million in spending and lowering its tax rate from 60.1 cents to 58.5. With increasing property values, the city expects to raise $251,115 in ad valorem revenue in 2021.
WINDCREST The town’s 2021 general-fund budget projects $7.95 million in expenses — up $465,294 from FY 2020 — and $8.12 million in revenues, $398,100 above last year. The new ledger will support, among other things, lease-purchase of a street sweeper and new Takas Park lights. Windcrest is lowering the tax rate from 41.3 cents to 40.9. The average homestead tax increases $24. Find this story and more 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
DECISION 2020
OCT. 20 - NOV. 17, 2020
CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT 20 JOHN CORNYN
VS
ELECTION SHOWDOWN by EDMOND ORTIZ
ON NOV. 3, RANDOLPH METROCOM voters will decide a U.S. Senate race, five House seats, seven legislative contests and two county commissioner posts.
U.S. SENATE Air Force veteran MJ Hegar, D-Round Rock, opposes a bid for a fourth term by U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, R-San Antonio. Cornyn, a former Texas Supreme Court justice and state attorney general, has built a conservative track record on issues such as immigration, taxes, spending, abortion, gun control, health care and public education. Hegar supports expanding affordable health care access, lower prescriptiondrug prices, protecting reproductive rights, immigration reform, investing in clean, renewable energy to create jobs, strengthening ties with U.S. allies abroad, and commonsense gun laws. Also running are Libertarian Kerry McKennon and Green Party member David Collins.
MJ HEGAR
CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT 15 Business owner Monica De La CruzHernandez, R-Alamo, faces attorney and two-term incumbent U.S. Rep. Vicente Gonzalez, D-McAllen. De La Cruz-Hernandez has conservative stances on abortion, border security, the Second Amendment, immigration reform and business regulation. She also backs anti-human trafficking policies and improved veterans’ services. Gonzalez supports stronger Social Security, Medicare, public education, roads, border security, military and first responders; higher-wage jobs, less business regulation, improved veterans’ services, and federal Development, Relief and Education for Alien Minors Act passage.
CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT 20 Republican Mauro Garza, a business owner, challenges Democratic U.S. Rep. Joaquin Castro’s run for a fifth term. Castro, a former state legislator and Stanford University graduate, has worked in public education, health care and the juvenile-justice system. Recently, he was vocal about changes in U.S. Postal Service operations and how they affect mail delivery. Garza worked at the Texas Biomedical Research Institute, taught in the Alamo Colleges District and
VS MAURO GARZA
JOAQUIN CASTRO
founded two companies. He advocates continuing many policies supported or implemented by President Donald Trump, including stronger border protection. Libertarian Jeffrey Blunt is also on the ballot.
CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT 21 Former gubernatorial candidate Wendy Davis, D-Austin, opposes firstterm U.S. Rep. Chip Roy, R-Dripping Springs. Having served under U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz and former Gov. Rick Perry, Roy has promoted solidly conservative policies on gun owners’ rights, limited government and taxes, abortion and building a border wall. He supports policies of Trump. A former state senator, Davis backs a stronger coronavirus-outbreak response; expanding access to affordable health care; immigration reform; sensible gun-safety laws; plus increased public school funding, paid leave, and minimum wage. Libertarian Arthur DiBianca and Green Party member Tommy Wakely are candidates, too.
CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT 28 U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar, a Democrat and the incumbent, and Sandra Whitten, GOP, both of Laredo, are
CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT 35
JENNY GARCIA SHARON
VS
LLOYD DOGGETT
CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT 15 VS MONICA DE LA CRUZHERNANDEZ
OCT. 20 - NOV. 17, 2020
L O CA L C O M M U N I T Y N E W S
competing. Cuellar practiced and taught law, served in the state Legislature and was Texas’ secretary of state before arriving at Congress in 2005. He’s anti-border wall, and supports increasing health care access, lowering prescription-drug prices, public school improvements and reforming immigration. Whitten, a self-described constitutional and pro-life Christian conservative, backs a strong military, law enforcement and limited government. Libertarian Bekah Congdon is also running.
CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT 35 Jenny Garcia Sharon, R-Austin, faces incumbent U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D-Austin, a former Texas senator and state Supreme Court justice. Doggett, a 25-year congressman, favors a greater response to the COVID-19 pandemic and climate change. He also promotes commonsense gun-safety legislation, affordable health care, pro-family immigration reform and helping small-business owners. Sharon is pro-life, pro-Second Amendment, pro-border wall, plus backs free-market health care solutions, and school choice. Libertarian Mark Loewe and independent Jason Mata Sr. also are on the ballot.
VICENTE GONZALEZ
DECISION 2020
TEXAS SENATE DISTRICT 19
TEXAS HOUSE DISTRICT 73
Attorney Roland Gutierrez, D-San Antonio, opposes incumbent state Rep. Pete Flores, R-Pleasanton, for a full term. Flores, former leader of Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s law-enforcement division, currently works with the National Association of Conservation Law Enforcement Chiefs. He takes traditionally conservative views on abortion, property and gun owners’ rights, education, taxes, plus veterans’ issues. Gutierrez and his family live in the Mission San José neighborhood in San Antonio. Having represented Texas House District 119 since 2008, he’s campaigning for public school support, increasing affordable health care access, a living wage, workforce equality, pro-environment policies and infrastructure improvements. Libertarian Jo-Anne Valdivia is also running.
Teacher/musician/business owner Stephanie Phillips, D-Canyon Lake, opposes two-term state Rep. Kyle Biedermann, R-Fredericksburg, a smallbusiness owner and the incumbent. Biedermann touts pro-life laws, stronger border security, plus immigration and property-tax reform. Phillips favors better public education, expanded Medicaid and affordable health care access, clean energy and commonsense gun-safety laws.
TEXAS HOUSE DISTRICT 44 Former minister and mental health care case manager Robert Bohmfalk, D-Seguin, challenges incumbent state Rep. John Kuempel, R-Seguin. Kuempel touts pro-life policies, property and gun owners’ rights, and greater border security, roads and schools. Bohmfalk’s policies weren’t available at deadline.
Libertarian Eric Velasquez, too, is running.
TEXAS HOUSE DISTRICT 119 Business owner Elizabeth “Liz” Campos, a Democrat, vies with Marine Corps veteran George Garza, a Republican, to succeed Roland Gutierrez. Campos was a onetime Texas Senate chief of staff. Her priorities include supporting public education, property-tax reform, senior citizens and veterans, solutions to homelessness, investments in jobs, health care, transportation and public safety. Garza wants to improve senior citizens’ services and care, legalize marijuana, plus reform education and property taxes. Libertarian Arthur Thomas IV and Green Party member Antonio Padron, are also on the ballot.
TEXAS HOUSE DISTRICT 120 Republican Ronald Payne faces the incumbent: two-term state Rep. Barbara Gervin-Hawkins, a Democrat. A former educator and San Antonio zoning commissioner, Gervin-Hawkins is special-projects coordinator of the George Gervin Youth Center, and co-founder of the Gervin Academy. She’s long focused on education and ELECTION continues on pg. 16
TEXAS SENATE DISTRICT 19
TEXAS HOUSE DISTRICT 118
VS
VS
PETE FLORES
LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM
TEXAS HOUSE DISTRICT 118 Republican Adam Salyer challenges first-term state Rep. Leo Pacheco, a Democrat and the incumbent. A lifelong South Side San Antonio resident, Pacheco is an educator working as a human-resource specialist at Palo Alto College. He champions capping senior citizens’ property taxes, more public school funding, expanding access to higher education and affordable health care, improving transportation and veterans’ services, plus fighting discrimination. An Army veteran, Salyer is a real estate agent and former Universal City councilman who advocates reforming property taxes and public education, protecting gun owners’ rights, and prolife policies.
ROLAND GUTIERREZ
15
ADAM SALYER
LEO PACHECO
16
L O CA L C O M M U N I T Y N E W S
DECISION 2020
OCT. 20 - NOV. 17, 2020
VOTERS MULL BUSY NEISD, ACD ELECTIONS NOV. 3 by EDMOND ORTIZ
THE NORTH EAST INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT and Alamo Colleges District will hold Nov. 3 contested board elections delayed from May because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Joseph Hoelscher, a child-welfare attorney and former educator, opposes District 4 trustee David Beyer’s bid for a full term. Beyer is a landscape architect and his wife is a district alum; they currently send their children to NEISD schools. Classroom innovation, hiring and retaining more quality teachers, plus improved mental health and social-emotional learning methods are key issues for Beyer. “I have the temperament to work closely with six other individuals to make decisions for all 65,000 students,” he said. Hoelscher’s campaign priorities include bolstering special education and gifted/talented programs, particularly for younger kids. He said the current school board needs an experienced educator with business-management know-how. “I look forward to working with the other members so we can learn from each other,” he added. Because NEISD will host 46 on-campus polling sites, schools are closed to students Nov. 3 to create a safe and secure environment for all, officials said. José Macias Jr., a former Judson Independent School District trustee, seeks a full term as an ACD board member from District 2. Gloria Ray, a federal civil-service retiree, opposes him. Macias is campaigning for fiscal responsibility, initiating college-readiness collaborations, improving student retention, increasing the number of minority
students, producing more workforcedevelopment partnerships, and creating a second-chance program for adults previously imprisoned. Ray advocates expanding tuition assistance, work-study and internship programs, bolstering academic/ workforce education and certifications, plus sustaining quality infrastructure at all campuses. The District 9 seat in ACD has three candidates: incumbent Joe Jesse Sanchez, attorney Leslie Sachanowicz and Michael John Good. Sanchez, a former teacher and school administrator, has in recent years been administrator of the Bexar County Juvenile Probation Department’s Juvenile Justice Academy. Sachanowicz is a former Bexar County assistant district attorney now teaching government at San Antonio College. Good recently graduated from St. Philip’s College, having studied construction technology. He has socialwork experience. Find this story and more at www. localcommunitynews.com.
ELECTION continues from pg. 15
criminal-justice reform. Payne has been a vocational nurse, emergency medical technician and volunteer firefighter. He’s also assisted several religious and secular humanitarian-aid groups. The Army veteran advocates freemarket and libertarian approaches to several issues. Libertarian Shawn Huckabay, too, is on the ballot.
TEXAS HOUSE DISTRICT 121 Democrat Celina Montoya challenges first-term Republican state Rep. Steve Allison. Allison, the incumbent supports free-market principles, protecting constitutional liberties and reducing governmental regulations. Montoya advocates expanding Medicaid and affordable health care access, plus improving small businesses and public schools.
BEXAR COUNTY PRECINCT 3 Communications-firm owner Trish DeBerry, a Republican, is vying with attorney Christine Hortick, a Democrat, to succeed outgoing Commissioner Kevin Wolff. DeBerry, a television-news veteran, is campaigning on low taxes, property-appraisal reform, job creation, preventing fraud and abuse of senior citizens and improving infrastructure. Hortick, a San Antonio native and former aide to the late U.S. Sen. Ted Kennedy, is promoting expanding access to women’s and mental health care, protecting abused and neglected children, economic development, plus smart transportation. ELECTION continues on pg. 18
TEXAS HOUSE DISTRICT 119
GEORGE GARZA
VS
LIZ CAMPOS
TEXAS HOUSE DISTRICT 120
RONALD PAYNE
VS
BARBARA GERVINHAWKINS
OCT. 20 - NOV. 17, 2020
L O CA L C O M M U N I T Y N E W S
DECISION 2020
TEXAS HOUSE DISTRICT 121
BEXAR PCT. 3 COMMISIONER
VS
VS
STEVE ALLISON
CELINA MONTOYA
16 CANDIDATES SEEK THREE COUNCIL SEATS IN CONVERSE by EDMOND ORTIZ
CONVERSE — Residents headed to the polls Nov. 3 to vote on three City Council seats will find a crowded ballot with 16 contenders.
PLACE 2 There are several candidates vying for Place 2, held by incumbent Deborah James. The two-term council member is campaigning for more honesty, transparency and better communication from local government. Her opponents include Steve Brown, a former councilman and previous mayoral contender who chairs the Planning & Zoning Commission. Paul Hinz, a business manager at Whataburger’s San Antonio corporate office, has degrees in four fields of study, including finance and business administration. He’s been active with his neighborhood homeowners association and around the community, including volunteering for Big Brothers Big Sisters and Meals on Wheels. He aims to continue what he calls the city’s successful economic and governmental practices. Brad Kessler is a small-business owner/ LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM
general contractor, Judson Learning Academy graduate and volunteer with several nonprofits and groups. His key issues include public safety, small-business support and improving infrastructure. Cybersecurity analyst and Army veteran Billy Ortiz serves on the Planning & Zoning Commission. He’s focusing on maintaining public safety and infrastructure, especially with expansion through annexation. Sonia Elias Shipp works in securities, and is the mother of two Judson High School graduates. Shipp said the current council prioritizes special interests and pet projects. She supports a strong, fully funded police force, and opposes tax hikes to rectify any budget shortfalls. James, Brown and Ortiz didn’t provide responses by deadline.
PLACE 4 Appointed to the seat in June, incumbent Dana Losey seeks a full term. Her professional experience includes teaching, grant writing and management
TRISH DEBERRY
for nonprofits and the city of Seguin. She backs public-safety and infrastructure improvements, supporting community-based organizations and service, plus fiscal responsibility and transparency. Losey’s challengers include Jacqueline Angulo, who retired after working 30 years for the state. Her campaign is focused on growing small businesses, public safety and infrastructure. Retiree Jeff Beehler is a former councilman who previously served on the Planning & Zoning and Parks & Recreation commissions. Last year, Beehler lost a reelection race to Richard Wendt by a handful of votes. Terry Bourland is an alternate Planning & Zoning commissioner. Kate Silvas seeks to reclaim the seat from which she was removed by a council vote earlier this year. Silvas, a previous Converse Economic Development Corp. leader, said her priorities are public safety, financial growth and transparency, plus government accountability. Army veteran Moises Soto is trained in project management, and has worked as a maxillofacial technician and federal disaster relief manager. He supports quality-of-life improvements, responsible economic expansion, plus enhancing council access and accountability for the public. Jacob Tabora is a Marine veteran who supervises security operations at Hyatt
17
CHRISTINE HORTICK
Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa. He also volunteers with the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office’s public-engagement panel. Tabora’s priorities include ensuring tax dollars are spent wisely, making Converse a safe place to live and work, and addressing all residents’ concerns. Responses weren’t available by press time from Angulo, Beehler and Bourland.
PLACE 6 Those vying for the post include incumbent Marc Gilbert, who previously presided over Converse’s EDC board. The council originally appointed him to the Place 6 seat in 2018. One opponent is property manager Chris Clark, who lost Place 5 to Wendt last year. The other is Jon Lindgren, a retired Air Force chief master sergeant who served multiple terms on the council. Lindgren oversees the retirees’ activities office at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph. None of the candidates provided a response by deadline. Early voting began Oct. 13 and continues at Old Converse City Hall, 405 S. Seguin Road: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Oct. 19-24; noon to 6 p.m. Oct. 25; and 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Oct. 26-30. Converse residents casting a ballot on Election Day may do so at any Bexar County polling site (7 a.m. to 7 p.m.). Find this story and more at www. localcommunitynews.com.
18
L O CA L C O M M U N I T Y N E W S
DECISION 2020
OCT. 20 - NOV. 17, 2020
WINDCREST VOTERS PONDER 2 COUNCIL MATCHES by EDMOND ORTIZ
WINDCREST — Two of three incumbent City Council members up for reelection on Nov. 3 face opposition.
Alice Vargas Relkin, a contract Randolph Field Independent School District employee, is challenging Place 2 Councilwoman Cindy Strzelecki’s bid for a second term. George Alva, who unsuccessfully ran for the Place 1 seat in 2018, takes on Place 3 Councilman Greg Turner, who is seeking a second term.
PLACE 2 Strzelecki, a registered nurse, was a compliance officer for the Methodist and
Baptist health care systems. She holds a master’s degree in business administration from Our Lady of the Lake University. She served on several local panels, including the Windcrest Proud initiative and the Windcrest Ethics Commission. Strzelecki pledged to keep “supporting the Police and Fire departments, improving streets and infrastructure, and improving senior services and activities for young families in Windcrest.” A graduate of Judson High School and the University of the Incarnate Word, Relkin volunteers with several Windcrest civic groups, and presides over the Randolph High School Air Force JROTC Booster Club. Relkin said residents must be invested in actions and policies enacted by the council.
“Progress doesn’t happen solely on the votes of five council members, it’s on the efforts of a countless, caring community,” she added.
PLACE 3 A Navy veteran, Alva is vice president on the Windcrest Economic Development Corp. board. He previously served with San Antonio’s Convention and Visitors Commission, Airport Advisory Commission and Transportation Advisory Board. Alva backs enhanced public safety, comfort and cleanliness in town, a probusiness approach from city government, fiscal responsibility and ensuring every WINDCREST continues on pg. 19
SCHERTZ VOTERS EYE COUNCIL RACES by EDMOND ORTIZ
SCHERTZ — Residents will decide two contested City Council elections Nov. 3.
Former Councilman Cedric Edwards and political newcomer Jill Whittaker are jockeying to succeed Place 3 Councilman Scott Larson, who’s stepping down. In Place 5, Councilman David Scagliola faces retiree Gwen Jones.
PLACE 3 Edwards, an Air Force veteran who has volunteered with the Roy B. Hodges Disabled American Veterans chapter and Schertz-Cibolo Lions Club, owns and runs an Edward Jones Investments office in town. He has years of experience in business and civic leadership, and sound financial practices, Edwards said.
His priorities for the city include improving roads, staying fiscally responsible, plus developing a corporate business campus and institution of higher education to act as catalysts for Schertz and the surrounding area. Whittaker is a real estate agent and Air Force veteran whose goals include community safety and fiscal responsibility. “(The city is) also expected to be good stewards of the taxpayers’ dollars and I feel it is their job to ensure the needs of the city are properly addressed while working to keep as much money in the pockets of the residents,” she added.
PLACE 4 Councilman Michael Dahle, who filed for a full term, runs unopposed.
PLACE 5 Incumbent and Air Force veteran
Scagliola, an adjunct professor at Park University at Joint Base San AntonioRandolph, has volunteered with several local nonprofits and organizations. Promoting years of council experience and knowledge of issues facing Schertz, Scagliola pledged to support smart, sustainable growth; develop a safe, family-oriented community; governmental transparency and access; plus balance infrastructure needs and quality-of-life initiatives. Jones remained unavailable for comment.
EARLY VOTING DETAILS: • Cibolo Fire Station No. 2, 3864 Cibolo Valley Drive; Schertz Elections Office, 1101 Elbel Road; and Selma City Hall, 9375 Corporate Drive — 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Oct. 13-16; 7 a.m.to 7 p.m. Oct. 17, 19-24 SCHERTZ continues on pg. 19
ELECTION continues from pg. 16
BEXAR COUNTY SHERIFF Republican Gerald “Gerry” Rickhoff, a former Bexar County clerk, opposes Democrat Javier Salazar’s bid for a second term. An ex-San Antonio police officer, Salazar has promoted ways the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office seeks to partner with culturally diverse communities. Under his tenure, BCSO has outfitted deputies with body cameras, and is launching a pilot program to better address mental health-related calls. Rickhoff believes his administrative experience can benefit county jail operations, which came under scrutiny after a series of escapes, plus legal troubles for some guards. He hails from a politically active family, which includes a judge and peace officer.
COMAL COUNTY PRECINCT 3 Democratic business owner and Presbyterian chaplain Colette Nies opposes incumbent Republican commissioner and business owner Kevin Webb. Both live in New Braunfels. Nies supports increased affordable housing and food security, managing growth in environmentally sensitive ways, modernizing technology for emergency planning, and flood/ drought management. Webb is an advocate of strong law enforcement, smart growth planning and infrastructure funding, flood control, and low taxes. Find this story and more at www. localcommunitynews.com.
OCT. 20 - NOV. 17, 2020
L O CA L C O M M U N I T Y N E W S
ELECTION BASICS by EDMOND ORTIZ
VOTERS DURING THE NOV. 3 general election likely will see a lengthy ballot.
Besides the presidential battle, there’s a range of congressional, county and state legislative races. Also to be determined are contests and special initiatives delayed from local May elections because of the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, San Antonio voters are asked to redirect a 1/8-cent sales tax that currently funds linear creekway development and Edwards Aquifer protections to four years of workforce training in the wake of COVID-19 job displacements. After the city takes its one-time share of proceeds, VIA Metropolitan Transit will then inherit a portion of the new revenue stream to help support a long-range plan to enhance public-transit improvements. San Antonio plans to use a mix of profits to extend the aquifer-protection program. As of press time, the city hadn’t found replacement funding for trailways. The San Antonio electorate will also consider reauthorizing part of the local sales tax to fund the Pre-K 4 SA program for another eight years. Some suburban voting decisions include whether to reauthorize a quarter of 1% sales tax to fund street maintenance in Selma, while in Universal City, the electorate is asked to determine the fate of a proposition to sell 32 acres of parkland LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM
near Universal City Boulevard and Kitty Hawk Road. Key things to remember: Area earlyvoting hours began Oct. 13. They continue at Bexar County sites and locations — 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Oct. 19-24; noon to 6 p.m. Oct. 25; and 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Oct. 26-30 at Semmes Branch Library, 5060 Judson Road, San Antonio; Takas Park Civic Center, 9310 Jim Seal Drive, Windcrest; Old Converse City Hall, 405 S. Seguin Road; and Universal City Library, 100 Northview Drive. For Guadalupe County, early-voting hours sites and locations — 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Oct. 19-24 and 26-30; and 1-6 p.m. Oct. 25 at Cibolo Fire Station No. 2, 3864 Cibolo Valley Drive; Schertz Elections Office, 1101 Elbel Road; and Selma City Hall, 9375 Corporate Drive. In Comal County, early-voting hours at
DECISION 2020
Garden Ridge Community and Event Center, 9400 Municipal Parkway — 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Oct. 19-24, 26, 27, 29 and 30; 1-6 p.m. Oct. 25; and 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Oct. 28. Voters on Election Day may cast a ballot at any open polling site (7 a.m. to 7 p.m.). Oct. 23 is the final day to apply for a mailin ballot. Any county-registered voter may receive one if: 65 years of age or older prior to Nov. 3; sick or disabled; out of the county on Election Day and during the period of early voting by personal appearance; or confined in jail, but eligible to vote. Mail-in ballot applications are available through county elections departments: Bexar — 210-335-8683 or https://www. bexar.org/1568/Elections-Department; Guadalupe — 210-945-4199 or https://www. co.guadalupe.tx.us/elections; Comal — 830221-1352 or https://www.co.comal.tx.us/ Elections.htm.
AT THE POLLS Voters must present any of the following: a Texas driver’s license; Texas Election Identification Certificate; Texas ID card; Texas concealed handgun license (issued by Texas Department of Public Safety); U.S. military ID card containing the person’s photo; U.S. citizenship certificate or naturalization certificate containing the person’s picture; or a U.S. passport. Find this story and more at www. localcommunitynews.com.
19
WINDCREST continues from pg. 18
resident is represented. “Everyone is my constituent,” he added. Turner, a management analyst and certified public manager, wasn’t available for comment by deadline.
PLACE 1 Councilman Wes Manning is running unopposed for the Place 1 spot. Early voting began Oct. 13 and continues at Takas Park Civic Center, 9310 Jim Seal Drive: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Oct. 19-24; noon to 6 p.m. Oct. 25; and 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Oct. 26-30. Windcrest residents casting a ballot on Election Day may do so at any Bexar County polling site (7 a.m. to 7 p.m.). Find this story and more at www. localcommunitynews.com. SCHERTZ continues from pg. 18
and 26-30; and 1-6 p.m. Oct. 18 and 25; • Garden Ridge Community Center, 9400 Municipal Parkway — 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Oct. 13, 15 and 16; 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Oct. 14; 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Oct. 17,19-24, 26, 27, 29 and 30; 1-6 p.m. Oct. 18 and 25; 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Oct. 28 (7 a.m. to 7 p.m.). Residents may vote in person on Election Day at any polling site in the county where they live. Find this story and more 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 OCT. 20 - NOV. 17, 2020
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HAPPENING continues from pg. 10
NOV. 7
COMMUNITY SHRED DAY Live Oak residents may destroy paper documents from 9 a.m. to noon at the Fire Department parking lot, 8001 Shin Oak Drive. For updates or cancellations of the free event, visit www.liveoaktx.net.
NOV. 7
OFF AND RUNNING INVITED BY: ANNETTE USAF NURSE –R 210-848-8012 420 SCHERTZ PARKWAY MON-FRI 0700am - 3:00pm SAT – 1000am - 3:00pm Call to schedule an evening Virtual App People who use Herbalife® Formula 1 twice a day as part of a healthy lifestyle can generally expect to lose around half a pound to 1 pound per week.
Discover LOCAL News Happening THE CHURCH ON THE HILL
Whose Mission Is To Love God, Love Others, Reach the World 5500 FM 1103 - Schertz, TX Mail Address : PO Box 703, Cibolo, TX 78108-0703 (210)658-0525 www.cibolovalleychurch.org
COME WORSHIP WITH US SUNDAY MORNING
9:00 AM Traditional Service 10:15 AM Bible Study on Sunday Morning- all ages 11:30 AM Contemporary Service 9:00 & 11:30 AM Children’s Church
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SUNDAY EVENING
4:00 PM AWANA - classes 3yr old to 12th grade WEDNESDAY SERVICE 9:00 AM Prayer Team - all are welcome 6:00–7:00 PM Small Groups 7:00–7:30 PM Prayer-nursery always provided / no charge
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“Fiesta Especial Inclusion 5K & 1 Mile Dash” was rescheduled from April 20. The eighth annual race and parade begins at 8 a.m. at Windcrest City Hall, 8601 Midcrown Drive. For costs, updates or cancellations, visit https:// www.athleteguild.com/running/ windcrest-tx/2020-fiesta-especialinclusion-5k-1-mile-dash.
NOV. 11
HOLIDAY OBSERVANCE Honor Veterans Day from 9-10 a.m. at Veterans Memorial Plaza, 512 Schertz Parkway, in a community ceremony remembering all who served. For updates or cancellations, visit https://www. thechamber.info/events/details/ veteran-s-day-ceremony-25545?calen darMonth=2020-11-01.
THROUGH NOV. 26
UNIVERSAL CITY BLUE SANTA Folks interested in applying for Universal City’s Blue Santa program can get forms at http:// www.uccpaaa.org/BlueSanta.html. Applications should be dropped off at the Police Department, 2150 Universal City Blvd. For updates or cancellations, visit http://www. universalcitytexas.com/Calendar. aspx?EID=3484.
THIS FALL
HOLIDAY MEAL BASKETS Randolph Area Christian Assistance Program will accept applications for its holiday giveaway through Oct. 30 for Thanksgiving, and Nov. 19 for Christmas. Families requiring help due to limited or no income, are at or below federal poverty guidelines, and reside within the following ZIP codes: 78108, 78109, 78124, 78132, 78148, 78154, 78247, 78233 (Live Oak only) and 78266, may apply. Meantime, cash donations to cover costs are welcome year-round at RACAP offices, 307 Pfeil St. in Schertz. For more, call 210-6581613 or visit www.racap.org.
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 cancellations, email Cindy Newton at cindyn@satx.rr.com, or call 210381-4082, or visit www.grak.org.
SUNDAYS
FUNDANCERS The square-dancing club assembles from 7-9 p.m. at North Community Center, 3501 Morning Drive in Schertz. For updates or cancellations, contact jimpresfundancers@yahoo.com or visit the Austin Square and Round Dance Association at www. asrda.org.
SUBMITTING EVENTS: Email all the details along with your contact information two months in advance to tips@ localcommunitynews.com.
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210-654-9300
5016 F.M. 1518 Selma TX 78154
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Pop Quiz! What percentage of people have a fear of the dentist? ❍ a. 17%
❍ b. 40%
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❍ c. 75%
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. 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. 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. Sincerely, Jerame K. Hafen, DDS 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
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OCTOBER IS NATIONAL PHYSICAL THERAPY MONTH Physical Therapy specializes in human movement, function, reaching independence in Activities of Daily Living. Physical therapists have a wealth of education regarding the human body, its movements (kinesiology) hands on treatment approaches, and focus on patient care. Physical therapy is covered by most insurance companies due to its efficacy which means it works! Patients can access Physical Therapy directly for up 10 visits, then will be referred to an appropriate health care provider. Choose physical therapy! Care for Every Body! It is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Get regular check ups and seek a physical therapist to help with lymphedema, loss of range of motion and scar tissue from surgical interventions.
T H Garden G d Rid Ridge D Physical Therapy A And Wellness Center, P.C. Y 210-651-4826
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916 Coronado Blvd., Universal City
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HOURS ARE CURRENT AS OF PRESS TIME, BUT CHECK WITH THE BUSINESS FOR UPDATES.
by OLIVIER J. BOURGOIN
A PIVOTAL CONVERSATION with his dad convinced Dwayne Price to launch a lasting culinary career with the creation of Wayne’s Wings.
“One day, my father came down from New Jersey to visit. I didn’t know it at the time, but that would be the last time I would see him alive. … My dad said to me: ‘I’m glad you’re doing well, son. But,
Dwayne Price had a conversation with his father that led him to pursue the creation of his eatery, Wayne’s Wings, with the help of his wife, Roxy. Photo by Olivier J. Bourgoin
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Dr. Diana Schonhoff, A PT, DPT, DN cert, AASOT P 18945 FM 2252, Ste., 107 P Garden Ridge, TX 78266 Y gardenridgephysicaltherapy.com
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LEARN ABOUT THE NEWEST NEIGHBORHOOD PLACES FOR BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER.
Wayne’s Wings takes flight on Northeast Side
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3131 (210) 658-3
OCT. 20 - NOV. 17, 2020
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Fax 210-651-4862
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WAYNE’S WINGS
4453 Walzem Road For more, visit www.wayneswingssa.com/ or www.facebook.com/Waynes-Wings-1101864259866729
L O CA L C O M M U N I T Y N E W S
23 STAFF FORCE
6900 San Pedro Ste 154 San Antonio, TX, 78216 what happened to the boy who had all these big dreams of opening his own restaurant?’” Two months later his dad died and that’s when Price understood there had been a deeper purpose to the visit. “It just hit me. I asked myself, ‘What is my favorite thing to eat?’ And, it’s fried chicken, so the decision was easy,” Price said. “I jumped in and started my food truck in 2010. It took for my dad to be terminally ill to jolt me into making a move.” Recently, the entrepreneur opened the latest iteration of the eatery at 4453 Walzem Road. Partnering with his wife, Roxy, he built a business with 36 different styles of wings. Selections include 23 wet-sauce varieties such as the very hot “Creeper” made with ghost pepper, jalapeño, hot sauce, barbecue sauce and lemon pepper; the milder “Godfather” with Alfredo sauce and Parmesan; and honey barbecue. Others are dry, without sauce, including vegetarian options. Every item can be served traditional or boneless. Sandwiches, like Philly cheesesteaks, are available, too. “My wife and I built this together. Rain, sleet or shine,” he said. For more than three years they parked an increasingly popular food truck in the South Texas Medical Center, Price said. Later, the Prices “got back on the road,” but when the truck caught fire, they opened their first sit-down restaurant in 2016, moving to the new location last spring. During the COVID-19 pandemic, all orders are only to-go or delivery, and online. Hours are 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday, plus 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday. LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM
Dr. Kimberly Stewart,
Dr. Trevor Lim,
Medical Director/Radiation Oncology
Radiation Oncology
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month 1 in 8 women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime.
Breast cancer is most common cancer in American women, except for skin cancers. It is estimated that in 2020, approximately 30% of all new women cancer diagnoses will be breast cancer.
There are over 3.5 million breast cancer survivors in the United States.
On average, every 2 minutes a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer in the
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EXPLORE YOUR NEXT PATHWAY Core classes, a variety of programs, and associate degrees Virtual Preview Day (Nov. 7) Register online at alamo.edu/nlc/preview
LANDMARK CANCER CENTER 12705 TOEPPERWEIN RD LIVE OAK, TX 78233 (210) 981-3051
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ALAMO.EDU/NLC
210-21ALAMO (210-212-5266)
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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4204 GARDENDALE STE. 201
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4204 Gardendale Ste.TX107 SAN ANTONIO, 78229 San Antonio, TX 78229
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