LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM VOL. 8, ISSUE 9 | MARCH 16-APRIL 20, 2021
LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS CIBOLO • CONVERSE • GARDEN RIDGE • LIVE OAK • SCHERTZ • SELMA • UNIVERSAL CITY • WINDCREST
EAT LOCAL | PG. 26
SUSAN YERKES | PG. 08
SEVERE WEATHER | PG. 21
MEDICAL SECTION | PG. 18
ACTIVISM NOT SNOWSTORM DON'T FORGET A DIRTY WORD AFTERSHOCKS YOUR CHECKUPS TALK LOCAL | PG. 06
CHECK THIS OUT NEW BLOGS DEBUT ON LOCAL'S WEBSITE
MRS. KITCHEN SOUL FOOD RESTAURANT:
DOWN-HOME DISHES AND SERVING ‘FOOD MADE WITH LOTS OF LOVE’ ON THE MENU AT WINDCREST EATERY
Not slowing down VISION IMPAIRMENT DOESN’T STOP STEELE JUNIOR’S ACTIVE LIFE by JOSE T. GARZA III
SCHERTZ — Jazmin Harper is one busy teenager.
She rises at 4:30 a.m. to swim before school, plays multiple instruments, participates in the Steele High School marching band and orchestra,
Adaptability hallmark of Cibolo, Schertz, Selma by EDMOND ORTIZ
CIBOLO, SCHERTZ AND SELMA are seeing commercial and residential growth, and successfully launching public projects, despite challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic, their city leaders say.
Appointed and elected officials from the three towns spoke at The Chamber’s annual State of the Cities luncheon Feb. 23 TENACITY continues on pg. 24
THE CHAMBER continues on pg. 16
SEE THE STORY ON PG. 14
Converse voters to decide charter amendments May 1
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STAFF
PUBLISHER Jaselle Luna EDITORIAL Editor
Thomas Edwards News Staff
Edmond Ortiz Contributing Writers
Olivier J. Bourgoin, Jose T. Garza III, Miranda Koerner, Arthur Schechter and Susan Yerkes ART Designer
E. Fisher Contributing Artist
Jeremiah Teutsch Contributing Photographer
RB Ornelas ADVERTISING Senior Media Representatives
Dawn Radick and Joanne Torres Multimedia Account Representative Controller
Gracie Cortinez READER SERVICE Mailing Address
5545 Fredericksburg Road, Suite 211 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 OUR OTHER PUBLICATIONS 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
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ON THE COVER – The Chamber held its annual State of the Cities luncheon Feb. 23 at Santikos Entertainment Cibolo. In spite of the global pandemic, each city saw growth, leaders said. From left are Schertz City Manager Mark Browne, Cibolo City Manager Robert Herrera and Selma City Administrator Johnny Casias. See the story on page 01. Courtesy photo/The Chamber
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MARCH 16 - APRIL 20, 2021
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Michael Valdelamar
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LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS
The LOCAL Community News editorial board includes Jaselle Luna and Thomas Edwards.
TALK LOCAL
Bloggers debut LOCAL Community News is taking another exciting leap into the digital age by introducing a slate of bloggers offering unique insights on parenting, beer, wine and more. We’re excited to present this diverse and talented group of writers to our growing online audience. The blogs are exclusive to the website and are not in our print products. Fresh columns will post each week at www.localcommunitynews.com. Always feel free to share them and make comments. Initial contributors include Olivier J. Bourgoin, alias “The Wine Guy,” sharing all he’s heard from the grapevine, plus food pairings, libations and more. Former television reporter and public-relations specialist Gina Galaviz Eisenberg details the fun and challenges of raising young children. Travis E. Poling, longtime business writer, beer expert and Texas-beerindustry author, serves up perspectives on what’s good to pour in a pint glass, happenings in the craft-beer market, and new laws affecting brewers. Thomas Edwards will resurrect his award-winning column, “From the Editor.” He’ll be offering his perspective on local news and politics, as well as observations on the state of journalism. In the coming weeks, we plan to introduce more blogs. They’ll be offering tips and comments on everything from great foods and making superb meals, to sports and even the best coffees and teas. We predict with a lineup like this, visiting www.localcommunitynews. com will become part of your routine. Prepare to be entertained, informed and enthralled.
PLAN YOUR MONTH WITH OUR CALENDAR OF UPCOMING EVENTS IN THE COMMUNITY.
MARCH
YOUR ONE-STOP SOLUTION FOR ALL SITE NEEDS
6
City Council/ School Districts Schertz: 6 p.m. March 23 & April 6, 13; 1400 Schertz Parkway Live Oak: 7 p.m. March 30 & April 13; 8001 Shin Oak Drive Cibolo: 6:30 p.m. March 23 & April 13; 200 S. Main St. Converse: 7 p.m. March 16; 402 S. Seguin Road (teleconference) Garden Ridge: 6 p.m. April 7; 9400 Municipal Parkway Selma: 6:30 p.m. April 8; 9375 Corporate Drive Windcrest: 5 p.m. April 5, 19; 8601 Midcrown Drive Universal City: 6:30 p.m. March 16 & April 6, 20; 2150 Universal City Blvd. North East ISD: 5:30 p.m. April 12; 8961 Tesoro
LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM
Drive in San Antonio Judson ISD: 6 p.m. March 25 & April 15; 8205 Palisades Drive in Live Oak Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City ISD: 6 p.m. March 23 & April 20; 1060 Elbel Road in Schertz
MARCH 16 & APRIL 20 GARDEN MEETING
The Live Oak Village Garden Club gathers from 1-3 p.m. in the Live Oak Clubhouse, 7901 Shin Oak Drive. For more, call 210655-1036.
MARCH 20 & APRIL 3, 17
WINDCREST PRODUCE MARKET River City Produce holds a market from 10 a.m. to noon at City Hall, 8601 Midcrown Drive. Come in person or order online before arriving by calling 210271-0164. For more information, or to learn about updates or cancellations, visit https://orders. rivercityproduce.com. HAPPENING continues on pg. 09
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.
OPINION
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In praise of activists by SUSAN YERKES
THE YEAR OF COVID-19 also has been a year of political activism, from sweeping Black Lives Matter protests to storming the U.S. Capitol.
In San Antonio, thank God, citizen engagement is almost exclusively nonviolent. In fact, the most widespread and effective movements of the past months involved petitions to reform three of the city’s most powerful institutions. Only one — Fix SAPD — potentially succeeded. The group collected the 20,000 valid signatures required to get a proposal on the May 1 ballot limiting the San Antonio Police Officers Association’s collective bargaining rights.
With contract negotiations between the city and the police association just getting started, it’ll be interesting to see how San Antonians vote. Election success would certainly send a signal to SAPOA leaders, though not strip them of all power. Whatever the outcome, certainly thousands understand more about how public-safety unions work. They also know you can fight for change in a
River of Life
HAPPENING continues from pg. 07
peaceful and informed way. The two other recent drives for reforms garnered much attention, although not enough signatures for ballot inclusion. Recall CPS, aimed at CPS Energy, and SAWS Accountability Act, targeting the San Antonio Water System, both sought major changes in the leadership of the city-owned utilities, rate structures and more. Even with little funding, Recall CPS organizers made waves. Maybe it’s just coincidence their calls to reveal plans for the utility’s coalfired Spruce plants preceded an overdue public release of records. Was it happenstance CPS leaders who previously pooh-poohed a citizen rate-advisory committee pivoted on their “flexible path” and established one? Or that CPS Energy President and CEO Paula Gold-Williams vowed to “expand the conversation,” and ensure the utility ramps up communication with ratepayers? Post “Snowvid,” better communication and resident involvement is critical. SAWS leaders garnered a lot of support for their handling of the weather crisis, but SAWS Accountability Act political action committee leaders intend to continue pressing for a public audit of the controversial Vista Ridge pipeline project and more. All three grassroots movements made some good points, and failures during the freeze that crippled
the area focused awareness on transparency and communication. Clamming up when criticized is a lousy strategy, especially for publicly owned utilities. Activism, after all, isn’t a bad word. I’m proud to tell friends in other cities about an incident last summer I believe says a lot about how people take action here. Soon after George Floyd’s death at the hands of Minneapolis police, previously peaceful protests turned violent one night in Alamo Plaza. Here’s the part I love: After hearing about the rioting and looting, hundreds of regular people converged on downtown to sweep up broken glass, clean graffiti and fix anything they could. Like the innumerable individual acts of kindness during the power and water failures of the snowstorm, that was positive community activism in the finest sense. That’s the heart of San Antonio. The citizen groups petitioning for reforms at CPS Energy, SAWS and the San Antonio Police Department aren’t professional politicians or vandals. They’re showing up to help out on their own time, trying to improve situations they believe could and should be better. I don’t necessarily agree with all their ideas. I do believe their hard work and the legal, peaceful activism they practice are essential to a healthy democracy.
MARCH 20 & APRIL 17 ART FANS
Art fans meet in the Youth Building behind the Live Oak Clubhouse, 7901 Shin Oak Drive, at 11 a.m. For updates or cancellations, call Kat at 210-8445315 or visit https://www.facebook. com/LiveOakLeagueOfArts/.
THROUGH MARCH 21 TIDY UP IN SCHERTZ
The city’s free, semiannual cleanup is from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 125 Pecan Drive. For updates or cancellations, plus a list of accepted items, visit http://schertz.com/Calendar.aspx?EID=3513&month=3&year=2021&day=23&calType=0.
MARCH 22 & APRIL 12
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. Due to COVID-19, some sessions will be over Zoom. Lunches, $15 per individual, 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.
MARCH 23 & APRIL 13 WINDCREST LIONS CLUB
The group meets at 6:30 p.m. in the Windcrest Civic Center, 9310 Jim Seal Drive. For updates or cancellations,
visit http://www.e-clubhouse.org/ sites/windcresttx/.
MARCH 24 & APRIL 14 GARDEN RIDGE LIONS CLUB
The group meets at 7:30 p.m. at the Greater Randolph Area Services Program, 250 Donalan Drive in Converse. For updates or cancellations, visit https://www.eclubhouse.org/sites/conversetx/.
The group normally gathers at 7 p.m. in the Garden Ridge Community Center, 9400 Municipal Parkway, but currently meets over videoconferencing during the COVID-19 global pandemic. For updates or cancellations, call Dick Holloway, membership director, at 210-651-7431 or President Bill Foote at 210-651-9236 or email b1bill@hotmail.com.
MARCH 23 & APRIL 13
MARCH 24 & APRIL 14
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.
The group meets from noon to 1 p.m. at the Schertz Family YMCA, 621 Westchester Drive. Free admission; bring a lunch. Newcomers welcome. For updates or cancellations, call 210-445-3980.
MARCH 23 & APRIL 13 CONVERSE LIONS CLUB
OPTIMIST CLUB
SCHERTZ-CIBOLO LIONS CLUB
HAPPENING continues on pg. 10
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The Landscape of your dreams starts here.
syerkes@localcommunitynews.com
Christian Ministry The Church Where the Spirit of God is Pouring Out! - John 7:38
We are a community dedicated to seeking God and serving people!
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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.
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HAPPENING continues from pg. 09
MARCH 26
DINNER IS SERVED American Legion Auxiliary Unit 667, 504 Bowie Drive in Universal City, serves chicken-fried steak from 5-7 p.m. Plates cost $8. For updates or cancellations, call 210-658-3731.
MARCH 27 & APRIL 10 MEET THE MAYOR
Come to the Converse City Hall lobby at 406 S. Seguin Road, and chat with Mayor Al Suarez from 8-10 a.m. No appointment necessary. During the COVID-19 outbreak, face masks are necessary. For updates or cancellations, visit https://www.conversetx net.
MARCH 31
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.
MARCH/APRIL
WINDCREST SPRING EVENTS From 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., the city will hold a Community Garage Sale March 25-28; “Landfill Day” April 10; and “Brush & Bulk Pickup” April 12-30. For more, including locations, updates or cancellations visit http://www.windcresttx.gov/civicalerts.aspx?AID=561.
MARCH/APRIL
TRI-COUNTY CHAMBER EVENTS The group, cultivating business alliances across Bexar, Comal and Guadalupe counties, presents several monthly activities. For updates or cancellations, visit www. txtricountychamber.org or call Lisa Jubela at 830-305-6926.
MARCH/APRIL
THE CHAMBER EVENTS The Chamber (Schertz-Cibolo-Selma area) offers several monthly activities, including: an 11:15 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 16 luncheon at Santikos Entertainment, 18124 Interstate 35 in Cibolo, called the “State of Education;” a 5:30-7 p.m. April 15 mixer hosted by The Brooks of Cibolo, 816 Everyday Way in Cibolo; a 7:30-9 a.m. March 26 “Coffee at The Chamber,” 1730 Schertz Parkway in Schertz; and an 11:15 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 20 luncheon with nonprofits at the Schertz Civic Center, 1400 Schertz Parkway. RSVP and pay online by April 13. Also, through March 31, The Chamber presents “The Taste Local Flavor Tour.” Stop by The Chamber to purchase a game card and visit more than 25 local restaurants to win prizes. For updates or cancellations, visit www. thechamber.info or email finance@ thechamber.info.
bringing materials to the Public Works Department, 265 Kitty Hawk Road, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. On the first two days, there will be hazardous-waste collection there, too. Proof of residency required. For a list of acceptable items, plus updates or cancellations, visit http://www.universalcitytexas. com/816/UC-City-Cleanup.
APRIL 10
NATURE DISCOVERY SERIES Intended for elementary school youngsters, Crescent Bend Nature Park, 12780 W. Schaefer Road in Schertz, hosts kid scientists at 10 a.m. Preregistration is required; space is limited. For registration, topics, updates or cancellations, visit http:// www.schertz.com.
APRIL 10
For updates or cancellations, call 210658-3731.
MARKET DAYS Garden Ridge Market Days at Northeast Bible Church, 19185 FM 2252, is from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Enjoy vendors representing farmers, artisans and businesses, plus free attendance and parking. COVID-19 safety protocols enforced. For updates or cancellations, visit https://gardenridgemarketdays. com/.
APRIL 11
APRIL 11
SCHERTZ FITNESS FUN Cycle, play, stretch, jump and celebrate healthy living at Schertz’s community event, “Movin on Main,” from noon to 4 p.m. on the enclosed Main Street route. For updates or cancellations, visit http://schertz.com/468/Movinon-Main.
MORNING MEAL
APRIL 12
American Legion Auxiliary Unit 667, 504 Bowie Drive in Universal City, hosts “Second Sunday” 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.
“Coffee with the Mayor” is from 9:3011 a.m. at City Hall, 9400 Municipal Parkway. COVID-19 safety protocols are enforced. For updates or cancellations, visit https://www.ci.garden-ridge.tx.us/.
MEET GARDEN RIDGE’S MAYOR
APRIL 17
OFF AND RUNNING Fiesta Especial Inclusion 5K & 1-Mile Dash is 8 a.m. at Windcrest Golf Club, 8600 Midcrown Drive. For registration, updates or cancellations, visit https:// www.athleteguild.com/running/sanantonio-tx/2021-fiesta-especial-inclusion5k-1-mile-dash.
APRIL 19
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 on the third Monday of each month. Those dealing with cancer are HAPPENING continues on pg. 23
LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM
APRIL 2
‘EGG-CELLENT’ IN UNIVERSAL CITY An Easter Egg Drop at residents’ front doors (Universal City only) from 9:30-11:30 a.m. is limited to 400 signups. Households must register by 8 p.m. March 31 to receive the holiday gift. For registration, plus updates or cancellations, visit http://www. universalcitytexas.com/1108/EasterEgg-Drop.
APRIL 2
SCHOOL’S OUT Randolph Metrocom campuses will close for Good Friday, except in the Comal Independent School District. Students there receive time off through March 19 for Spring Break.
APRIL 9-18
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LOWDOWN
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LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS
LOWDOWN
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MARCH 16 - APRIL 20, 2021
TAKE A QUICK LOOK AT WHAT’S NEW IN THE COMMUNITY FROM OPENINGS AND CLOSINGS TO NEWS TIDBITS.
Open and Opening Soon MRS. KITCHEN SOUL FOOD RESTAURANT, 5237 Walzem Road in Windcrest, wants to “greet every customer warmly with Southern hospitality and serve them food made with lots of love,” according to the company website. The eatery also strives to serve food “cooked just like Grandma would have done it in her own kitchen.” Hours are 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday. For more, call 210-549-4392, or visit www.mrskitchensa.com or www.facebook.com/ mrskitchenrestaurant. (See the story on page 26)
210-929-4518 or visit https:// www.nestlecafe.com/ or www. facebook.com/nestlecafe. forumcrossing/.
available for pickup from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. weekdays. Also, they can be delivered on Fridays only. For more, visit www.thecoopsa.com.
FIRESTONE COMPLETE AUTO CARE,
IN OTHER NEWS:
CHESMAR HOMES WILL OPEN THE NEXT SEGMENT this year of
727 Cibolo Valley Drive in Cibolo, is now open. Hours are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, except 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays. For more, call 210-988-9830.
the Schertz master-planned community, Homestead by Freehold Communities, adding 119 lots to the development near Interstate 35 North and Homestead Parkway. More than 200 residences out of 1,470 lots have been built and sold by Perry Homes and CastleRock Communities.
THE CO-OP SA, 11911 Crosswinds Way, Suite 306, is a Northeast Side-based collective of local artisan food manufacturers, chefs and entrepreneurs now offering Meat & Cheese Nosh Box, a locally sourced charcuterie and dairy collection. Packages are
THE CONVERSE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORP. recently announced the sale of a tract on FM
78 in the city center reconfigured into two parcels. The buyer plans to develop Santa Monica Plaza, which will include two 9,000-square-foot buildings to integrate retail, office, cultural and institutional uses.
ACCORDING TO REPORTS, HINES GLOBAL INCOME TRUST INC. RECENTLY BOUGHT a 1.3 million-square-foot building at 6000 Schertz Parkway, which Amazon has been leasing as a fulfillment center.
THE CONVERSE PUBLIC LIBRARY RECEIVED THE 2020 Achievement of Library Excellence Award from the Texas Municipal Library Directors Association. Yearly, TMLDA confers recognition for outstanding
contributions to public libraries. The state has more than 560 such facilities, but only 56 received the commendation.
GOV. GREG ABBOTT RECENTLY REAPPOINTED SCHERTZ RESIDENT Lisa Rodriguez to the Appraisal Management Companies Advisory Committee until Jan. 31, 2023. The group advises the Texas Appraiser Licensing and Certification Board, making recommendations on the regulation of appraisal management companies. An Air Force veteran with 25 years of experience in real estate and residential appraisals, Rodriguez is owner and operations LOWDOWN continues on pg. 23
LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM
Are you a Type 1 or Type 2 diabetic OR do you take medications to control your Cholesterol?
Mrs. Kitchen Soul Food Restaurant has relocated from San Antonio’s East Side to a new site in Windcrest at 5237 Walzem Road. Co-owner Cheryl Thompson said the eatery’s Southern comfort food is based on recipes from her grandmother. Thompson’s brother and her son are also involved in the family business. Photo by Olivier J. Bourgoin
FIX MY PHONE PLUS, 513 Cibolo Valley Drive in Cibolo, offers individuals and school systems a range of services including repairs, and unlock and recover. The shop also buys and sells phones. This is the first Texas location for the company, which has three Oklahoma sites. Hours are 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. weekdays, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, and noon
to 5 p.m. Sunday. For more, call 210-904-7861 or visit https://www. fixmyphoneplus.com/cibolo-tx.
WAYBACK BURGERS & NESTLE TOLL HOUSE CAFÉ, 3142 Pat Booker Road, Suite 150 in Universal City, anticipated a mid-March opening serving burgers, sandwiches, chicken, fries, shakes, hot dogs, salads and more. For details, call
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 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
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DECISION 2021
MARCH 16 - APRIL 20, 2021
LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS
DECISION 2021
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MARCH 16 - APRIL 20, 2021
Converse gears up for charter, annexation elections
“If a two-year term is good enough for the U.S. House of Representatives, it should be good enough for Converse with a population and authority far less than that of a House member,” she said. According to Silvas, none of the possible charter amendments underwent a comprehensive review. As for the council seat-forfeiture measure, Droneburg said a sitting representative resigning to run for another office guarantees a clean break with the municipality. Councilwoman Deborah James criticized the item’s language, adding it would cost the city money to hold an election on a proposal she thought unnecessary. James and Councilman Richard Wendt joined Silvas with dissenting votes.
PROPOSED AMENDMENTS SPARK DEBATE by EDMOND ORTIZ
CONVERSE — Though City Council elections occurred last November, voters May 1 will next weigh in on three proposed City Charter amendments and two annexation proposals.
The council voted Jan. 5 to order the special charter amendment election and on Jan. 19 approved putting the dual annexation votes on the ballot. Regarding the amendments, one calls for expanding lengths of public office from two years to three. If approved, the
extended term becomes effective after the November 2021 council races. A second requires any sitting council
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The areas shaded blue show the Dover/Meadowbrook and the Parc at Escondido/ Weichold areas where residents will vote May 1 whether to be annexed by Converse. Courtesy map/Converse
member to resign upon announcing a candidacy for an election other than his or her current post. The third measure mandates anyone removed by a vote of the council must wait at least three years before running again. Councilwomen Shawn Russell and Nancy Droneburg sponsored each, saying many residents see these propositions as ensuring better City Hall representation. Russell said the term extension gives officeholders time to acclimate to their duties and become familiar with the workings of city government. “I know when I came on as a new
council member, it took me about a year to get oriented and learn the ropes,” she said. “It takes a while. By year three, I feel like I have a better grasp of things than I did two years ago.” Droneburg said 12 more months provides an elected leader with the tenure to oversee a city project. “In year one, you may not be able to get it done. The second year, you’re thinking you have to run for reelection. Three years gives you a chance to fulfill some obligations you have to the city,” she added. Councilwoman Kate Silvas opposed term extensions.
Concerning the three-year ban, Droneburg said some residents would have reservations about a former elected official seeking a return to office so soon after being ousted. “I’m thinking (that if) I’m a citizen of this city, why would I want anyone with this past on the council?” Droneburg said. James and Silvas, removed from public office in separate council votes during the past three years, were both brought back by the electorate. Four council members approved putting the proposal before voters. In a related matter, the council met Jan. 19 to call annexation elections for residents in two areas — Dover/ Meadowbrook and the Parc at Escondido/Weichold.
In 2017, San Antonio agreed to release to Converse 3.6 square miles of territory through 2034. Aside from adding those San Antonio properties, Converse plans to bring The Glen and Camelot II neighborhoods into the fold. In addition, the Legislature’s passage of Senate Bill 6 in 2017 allows Texans in large counties to vote whether a city can annex their land. Covering about 900 total acres, both areas are located south of Converse’s southern city limits. If annexation is OK’d, Converse would start service Jan. 1, 2022. If voters say no, the city has to wait until next year to hold another election. “If approved, it gives us ample time to deal with staffing,” City Manager Le
Ann Piatt said. “It also gives us time to get our systems in place.” The neighborhoods account for 2,900 current and future homes, with an estimated $1.8 million in property-tax revenue. The city plans to staff the locales with 12 police officers, six firefighters, four code-compliance officers and two Public Works employees, plus allot about $250,000 in road repairs. A 7 p.m. April 6 annexation public hearing is planned during the regular council meeting. April 1 is the voter-registration deadline; early voting is April 19-27. eortiz@localcommunitynews.com Find this story and more at www. localcommunitynews.com.
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aims to hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony later this year on an assembly plant set to employ up to 900 people. Cibolo in the past year issued $8 million in sales tax-supported bonds to fund road improvements citywide, and upgraded wastewater infrastructure in the FM 78 area. Benefiting also were in-town civic organizations and recreational offerings. Herrera said the YMCA has raised 90% of monies sought in a partnership THE CHAMBER continues on pg. 22
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at Santikos Entertainment Cibolo. Schertz City Manager Mark Browne, Cibolo City Manager Robert Herrera and Selma City Administrator Johnny Casias briefly addressed how their respective municipalities navigated issues prompted by the coronavirus outbreak in 2020. “It was a year of change, adaptability and resilience,” Browne said. “I think those are the characteristics that our communities showed to get through this year.” Browne said Schertz’s business enterprises fared well. Sales-tax revenue increased 15% in Fiscal Year 2020 over the previous one. He added local companies such as CalTex Protective Coatings converted
some of their operations into making personal protective equipment. Schertz began or completed regularly scheduled road repairs, with many projects benefiting from the lack of traffic resulting from temporarily shuttered businesses and people working from home. Schertz spent more than $5 million on street and sidewalk maintenance in 2020. In 2021, Schertz officials will emphasize long-term strategies, including overhauling the city’s land-use plan, continuing beautification of the Main Street corridor, and building more park trails. Cibolo’s residential development continued with 350 new homes. “Because of the growth rate, through the pandemic, we learned how to better communicate via our social media and our website,” Herrera said.
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LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS
HEALTH CARE SPECIAL SECTION
MARCH 16 – APRIL 20, 2021
LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS
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MARCH 16 – APRIL 20, 2021
Don’t let pandemic interrupt your routine medical care by MIRANDA KOERNER
WHILE MANY TAKE EVERY PRECAUTION to limit COVID-19 exposure, experts say delaying standard medical visits such as dental appointments or annual checkups is unwise.
Medical professionals say they are witnessing patients putting health care on hold — from hearing tests to cancer screenings — often due to fears of contracting the novel coronavirus. Richard Whittaker, senior medical director and practicing physician with WellMed at Ingram Park, said even avoiding getting flu shots or canceling regular appointments could jeopardize overall
health, particularly for heart patients or those with chronic conditions. “Patients should always get their preventative care because it’s proven that preventative care helps improve long-
term health,” Whittaker said. “Not getting lab work or exams to monitor and control chronic conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure poses a significant risk of having to go to urgent care, the emergency room or the hospital for treatment. These sites can expose you to a greater chance of getting COVID than in your primary-care clinic.” Hospital emergency rooms are for the critically ill or wounded, not routine medical maintenance, physicians said. “This unnecessary care further increases the risk of overwhelming our hospital systems where they’re already struggling to care for patients with COVID. People need to know it’s safe to navigate our health care system,” Whittaker said. Moreover, today’s technology enables visits without going into the doctor's office. For those reluctant to travel to a medical building, many physicians and clinics offer telemedicine, such as CommuniCare Health Centers. A health care provider makes the diagnosis and treatment using remote or virtual technology, like an online consultation. These can replace many — but not all — consults by a practitioner or a provider. Dr. Carlos E. Moreno, vice president and chief clinical officer of CommuniCare Health Centers, said his company offers curbside and telemedicine visits ranging from family wellness to women’s health. “In the current era of COVID-19, having an annual physical or going to your doctor for medical care can be seen as another potential route of COVID-19 exposure,” Moreno said. “However, visiting with your physician for a routine checkup is a very important step in preventive care, and can help you improve your health. Your health care provider can sense physical or emotional changes in yourself that may signal a developing disease or a decline in health.” For the hard of hearing, masks that cover mouths and inhibit lip reading or volume levels can be an extra challenge, which is why audiology appointments are paramount,
20% 27%
IN THE U.S. IN THE UNITED KINGDOM
health care providers said. “We have a lot of patients that have been struggling to communicate due to universal masking,” said Dr. Phallon Doss at Doss Audiology & Hearing Center. “They now realized they were not hearing well and relied on visual cues. Patients are very happy to be able to communicate again easily, even when others are wearing masks.” She’s pleased folks realize the value of regular exams, even during a pandemic. “We have also diagnosed several pediatric hearing losses that would have otherwise gone untreated if their parents had delayed care,” Doss said. “Untreated pediatric hearing loss has significant education implications and delays speech development.” Although many clients deferred appointments last spring at the outbreak’s outset, Pearl Molina of Cambridge Family Dental said they’re returning, albeit cautiously. “It’s important to keep up your regular, routine checkups because the doctor can find problems before it’s an acute or emergency situation,” Molina said. Fearing infection, many folks are bypassing gyms and studio classes, but physical therapists are seeing problems when those suffering from health issues shirk fitness. “Overall, people are generally moving less (and) working from home, (so they’re) less out in the community and that equals less exercise,” said Mike McTague, regional managing partner of Texas Physical Therapy Specialists. “Our biggest concern are the patients where movement and education are needed to reduce potential ‘chronicity,’ (like) low back pain, neck pain and generalextremity pain.” Postponements now could lead to trouble later, added the doctor of physical therapy. “Long-term health will be affected if conditions and pain that effect movement
persist, such as chronic conditions of heart disease, (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), diabetes are all controlled with some form of consistent exercise. Physical therapy is designed to get patients back to moving,” he said. February was National Cancer Prevention Month, but according to GenesisCare officials, any time is right to highlight the importance of screenings. Reports indicate late-term cancer screenings have risen due to COVID-19, as patients wait until the last minute. Late-term cases jumped 20% in the U.S., and 27% in the United Kingdom, with an increased mortality up to 3.2%, according to officials. Dr. Trevor Lim with GenesisCare said he’s seen many people delay screenings, only to receive an updated diagnosis of metastatic cancer, or spreading cancer. He said due to such inattention, it’s estimated that thousands more could die of breast and colorectal cancers. But, Lim said, there’s still hope. “There is an elderly woman I met recently who was a survivor of three different cancers over the past 20 years,” he said. “When a spot in her lung grew suddenly, she quickly underwent the appropriate evaluation and was found to have an early stage non-small cell lung cancer. Because of her diligence in following her doctors’ recommendations, her cancer was caught before it had spread and we hope to put her in remission a fourth time.” Lim added, “Witnessing cancer success stories such as this one are especially encouraging during this pandemic.” Find this story and more at www. localcommunitynews.com. LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM
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LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS
DECISION 2021
MARCH 16 - APRIL 20, 2021
LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS
DECISION 2021/SEVERE WEATHER
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/////////// ADVERTORIAL ///////////
MARCH 16 - APRIL 20, 2021
Familiar names on May 1 ballots by EDMOND ORTIZ
Voters casting ballots in May 1 local elections will see many political leaders, past and present, vying for another term in office.
In Garden Ridge, former Alderman Robb Erickson opposes Mayor Larry Thompson’s shot at a third time on the dais. Dave Wright is challenging Place 2 Alderwoman Lisa Swint’s bid for a second stint. Jesus “Jesse” Valdez was the lone applicant for Place 3 after Alderman Bryan Lantzy declined to run for a fifth term. Valdez is a business consultant, the city Water Commission chairman and a Planning and Zoning Commission member.There will be two school board contests in the Judson Independent
School District. Former trustee Jose Macias Jr. and Evette Livingston both filed for the open District 4 post. Macias represented District 4 for nine years before resigning to accept
March is
Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Colorectal cancer, also known as colon or rectal cancer, arises in the large intestine and is common in both men and women. The risk of developing colorectal cancer increases with age. Screening is recommended for everyone beginning at age 50. Individuals who are at increased risk may be advised to start screening earlier and /or have more frequent screenings. Signs and symptoms include rectal bleeding, change in bowel habits, pain, bloating, weight loss and fatigue. If you or a loved one have any signs or symptoms, or are 50 or older, don’t delay screening. Early detection can save lives. Kimberly Stewart, DO Radiation Oncologist 12705 Toepperwein Road Live Oak, TX 78233 Tel: (210) 816-4770
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San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg applies at the City Clerk’s Office for reelection, accompanied by his wife, Erika Prosper, and their son, Jonah. He’s seeking a third term; voting is May 1. Courtesy photo/Ron Nirenberg
an appointment to fill an unexpired term as the District 2 trustee with the Alamo Colleges District board. Gloria Ray upset Macias last November, winning a full ACD term. Livingston, a former teacher, oversees operations at The Rush Fun Park. Tech-product manager Emilio Silvas is challenging trustee Rafael Diaz Martinez Jr., seeking a full four-year term in the District 7 at-large position. Only incumbents Shatonya King, Debra Eaton and Jennifer Rodríguez applied for their board seats.
In Live Oak, Place 3 Councilman Ramon Norris Jr., appointed to replace the late Anthony Brooks, didn’t file for a full term. Voters will decide whether Anthony “Tony” Ruffin or nurse practitioner Erin Perez succeeds him. Neither Place 1 Councilman Mendell Morgan Jr. nor Place 5 Councilman Aaron Dahl drew rivals. In San Antonio, seeking a third term, Mayor Ron Nirenberg faces multiple challengers, most notably former District 6 Councilman Greg Brockhouse, whom Nirenberg beat in
the 2019 mayoral runoff. Nirenberg has weathered criticism for the city’s response to the coronavirus pandemic, while also weighing calls for more police accountability. The former campus radio-station manager wants to continue initiatives he’s overseen, including those designed to boost workforce training and affordable housing. Employment creation and economic development are among Brockhouse’s campaign priorities. Other mayoral hopefuls are Ray Basaldua, Joshua Jones Galvan, Michael “Commander” Idrogo, J. Miller, Frank Adam Muniz, Tim Atwood, Denise Gutierrez-Homer, Gary Allen, Antonio “Tony” Diaz, Justin Macaluso, Dan Martinez and John M. Velasquez. Educator Alexander Svehla, grassroots activist Emily Norwood, Army reservist Gabrien Gregory and Administrative Law Judge Ezra Johnson oppose District 10 Councilman Clayton Perry’s shot at a third
term. Perry beat Johnson in a 2017 runoff. San Antonio voters also will mull two City Charter amendments. One repeals police officers’ collective bargaining rights, a goal for reformers. Some City Council members have questioned the second proposal, which would let the city issue bonds for permanent public improvements or others not prohibited by the Texas Constitution. With no takers, Selma City Council members Kevin Hadas, Jim Parma and Ken Polasek will retain their seats. Universal City incumbents S. Bear Goolsby, Richard “Dick” Neville and William Shelby applied for their at-large council positions unopposed. In Converse, candidate elections were held last November, but on May 1, voters will consider three proposals in a City Charter amendment referendum. Also, residents in two unincorporated Bexar County areas Converse intends to annex as part of a deal with San Antonio will be asked to give formal approval to the transaction. (See a related story on page 14.) April 1 is the voter-registration deadline. Early voting is April 19-27. eortiz@localcommunitynews.com Find this story and more at www. localcommunitynews.com.
Snow & ice by EDMOND ORTIZ
THE EFFECTS of a punishing winter storm that left thousands of San Antonio-area residents without power or water for days will be felt for a long time, say officials looking for answers into why infrastructure failed during the crisis.
Meanwhile, local cities are setting up
emergency funds to help residents recovering from property damage; nonprofit agencies are doing the same. Municipal and state leaders also have demanded accountability from state government and energy providers. The region achieved record low temperatures — all below freezing — Feb. 14-16, and two of the biggest snowfalls in at least 36 years. Spurred by an unprecedented high demand on power, CPS Energy and other providers statewide were ordered by the Electric Reliability Council of Texas, the state’s grid operator, to implement rolling blackouts to stabilize Texas’ energy supply. But rolling blackouts, coupled with damaged or frozen equipment, produced extended power outages, exacerbating conditions and frustrating customers. Mayor Ron Nirenberg promised San Antonio will help residents, many of whom now face the prospect of high utility bills and repairs to broken water pipes. The City Council has grilled leaders of the San Antonio Water System and CPS Energy, both cityowned utilities, saying the agencies should have been better prepared ahead of the storm, and must do better to communicate with customers in emergencies. Nirenberg, Randolph Metrocom leaders and Gov. Greg Abbott also slammed ERCOT for its response to the severe wintry weather. Abbott asked state lawmakers to order and fund winterizations of power plants and other equipment statewide.
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HOMEOSTASIS Homeostasis is the tendency to stay at a healthy, stable, relatively constant internal environment. When there is dysfunction, the body tries to get back to a normal balance, similar to what we are trying to do since COVID-19. At Garden Ridge Physical Therapy, patients with dysfunction are treated to return the body to homeostasis. Whatever movement disorder, patients are treated with compassion, respect, dignity, and knowledge. We will continue to practice COVID precautions to protect all of our patients and staff, including masks. No one likes them, but too many people are still catching COVID. Please be respectful and protective of others until no longer recommended by CDC. Many of our patients have medical conditions that puts them at higher risk. We love working with our patients. Keeping them safe, helps keep the homeostasis balance.
Garden Ridge Physical Therapy And Wellness Center, P.C.
210-651-4826 Fax 210-651-4862 Dr. Diana Schonhoff, PT, DPT 18945 FM 2252, Ste., 107, Garden Ridge, TX 78266
gardenridgephysicaltherapy.com
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LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS
STATE OF THE CITIES
MARCH 16 - APRIL 20, 2021
LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS
LOWDOWN/HAPPENING
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MARCH 16 - APRIL 20, 2021
SAN ANTONIO’S DEPARTMENT OF ARTS & CULTURE and its Public Art Division recently unveiled “Najo Jām,” a new art installation at Comanche Lookout Park, 15551 Nacogdoches Road. Meaning “Our Home” in the Coahuiltecan language Pajalate, the work pays tribute to Indigenous peoples of South Texas and future generations, officials said. Sitting at the park’s peak, “Najo Jām” is considered pan-Indian, reflecting many Indigenous tribes that dominated the San Antonio area. Designed by local artists Carlos Cortés and Doroteo Garza, the display near Live Oak features stylized benches, a planter and a monument symbolizing peyotism, which has been used in Indigenous religious ceremonies.
ON FEBRUARY’S NATIONAL SIGNING DAY, NUMEROUS METROCOM HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT-ATHLETES
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invited for emotional and physical support. For updates or cancellations, call 210-658-1972.
ELSEWHERE
APRIL 5-JUNE 11
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TECHNICIAN TRAINING
CHIPPER SERVICE
For those 18 and older, a curriculum called TXFAST, or Texas Fame Accelerated Skilled Training, is 8 a.m. to noon weekdays at 2665 Flight Nurse St., Building 805 in San Antonio. Learn skills in pneumatics, electrical components, gears, bearings, hydraulics, and more. For details, call 210452-6959 or email info@txfame.com.
Free chipper service at Selma front curbs is provided to residents the first week of each month (April 5-9). Dates are subject to change. For updates or cancellations, call 210-651-7800 or email eporto@ci.selma.tx.us. Also, Schertz residents can receive curbside chipper service every Tuesday for $40 per 30 minutes. For updates, cancellations or to schedule an appointment, call 210-619-1800 or visit https:// schertztx.mycusthelp.com/webapp/_rs/
SUBMITTING EVENTS: Email all the details along with your contact information two months in advance to tips@ localcommunitynews.com.
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formally committed to continuing their sporting careers in college. Football: Jackson Andrews, Clemens, Abilene Christian; Josiah Carrillo, Roosevelt, McMurry; Dewayne Coleman, Roosevelt, Texas A&M-Kingsville; Max DiDomenico, Clemens, Tyler Junior College; Andrew Edwards, Clemens, Abilene Christian; E’Vaunte Freeman, Judson, Tyler Junior College; Christian “CJ” Garza, Steele, Incarnate Word; De’Anthony Lewis, Judson, University of Texas at San Antonio; Kaydon
HAPPENING continues from pg. 11
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MARK BROWNE, SCHERTZ CITY MANAGER
manager of South Texas Appraisal Management. She’s also office manager of Patrick Ingram Appraisals.
Olivia, Clemens, Texas State; Marcus Price, Roosevelt, William Penn; Nathaniel Pryor, Judson, Dixie State; Robert Rigsby, Judson, UTSA; Nick Salazar, Roosevelt, McMurry; Dwayne Smith, Steele, Blinn Junior College; Kyle Tharp, Steele, Utica College; Davion Wilson, Judson, Cisco Junior College; and Jayden Witter, Roosevelt, McMurry. Baseball: Elijah Sherwin, Steele, State University of New YorkJefferson Community College; James Starr, Clemens, Texas Wesleyan. Women’s basketball: Shelvy Curtis, Steele, North Texas-Dallas; Anessa Lopez, Steele, Our Lady of the Lake. Men’s golf: Jake Beltran, Clemens, Texas A&M-San Antonio; Bret Gray, Clemens, Sam Houston State. Women’s soccer: Christabel Thompson, Clemens, Louisiana Tech; Hayven Harrison, Clemens, Kansas. Volleyball/beach volleyball: Canada Buchanan, Clemens, Texas A&M-Kingsville; Sasami Cavan, Roosevelt, Illinois Institute of Technology. Men’s wrestling: Darwin Hull, Clemens, Chadron State. Softball: Jillian Jones, Clemens, Texas A&M-Kingsville; Crislyne Moreno, Clemens, McNeese State; Sydney Norton, Clemens, Lamar; Zoie Ramirez, Roosevelt, Schreiner; Azalea Ramos, Steele, East Central University, Oklahoma; Kelsey Sample, Clemens, Hendrix. Men’s track and field/ cross-country: Nazzio John, Roosevelt, Butler Community College, Kansas. Find LOCAL Lowdown at www.localcommunitynews.com.
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IT WAS A YEAR OF CHANGE, ADAPTABILITY AND RESILIENCE.”
LOWDOWN continues from pg. 13
Reviews
OW & EMPLOYEES LI D IN G CDC GUI
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WE LEARNED HOW TO BETTER COMMUNICATE VIA OUR SOCIAL MEDIA ROBERT HERRERA, AND OUR WEBSITE.” CIBOLO CITY MANAGER
delayed the luncheon by a week. “Year in and year out, in Selma we see it as an exercise to count our blessings, and really to showcase the community and the various wins we had as a city,” he added. Meanwhile, The Chamber is offering a game to substitute for its annual “The Taste” event, canceled last year due to the pandemic. The Taste Local Flavor Tour began March 1 and ends March 31. Participants may buy a game card, $5 each, at The Chamber office, 1730 Schertz Parkway. Gamers must visit at least three participating vendors. Those earning a sticker for each place where a purchase is made are entered into one of four prize drawings. Go to www.thechamber.info/pages/ TheTaste or call 210-619-1952 for more. eortiz@localcommunitynews.com Find this story and more at www. localcommunitynews.com.
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with the city toward developing a Miracle League Field at the Cibolo Sports Complex. This project is aimed at meeting the needs of special-needs youth. Herrera also recently announced he is retiring in May after nine years with Cibolo. Selma, too, saw business expansion during the crisis. Mercedes-Benz and
tractor dealer Ewald Kubota both opened new dealerships. Selma also welcomed a new Penske Truck Rentals location, and the opening of Beyer Boys Air Conditioning and Heating’s new headquarters. Juicery and coffeehouse, Jugo, launched from the Forum Pointe retail center. “Selma was a natural choice,” coowner Rafael Diaz Martinez Jr. said. “The city does a wonderful job creating infrastructure, a community feel, and ensuring a wonderful quality of life that aligns with our business model.” The town also introduced a smallbusiness reinvestment program to help local merchants through COVID-19. Residential growth, too, continues in Selma. In the past year, construction began at Sunrise Village, a single-familyhome development, and Citadel on Lookout, an apartment complex. Selma, in 2020, also made strides in restoring the historic John S. Harrison House property, plus developing adjacent trails, tree orchards and native landscaping. The city also completed construction of a Stage Stop Park splash pad, and hopes the coronavirus’ spread is further contained this spring or summer to accommodate a public grand opening. This year, Selma will start a delayed project to improve and widen Evans Road. The city also is upgrading its municipal facilities, including building a public-works complex, and expanding the main City Hall structure. Casias thanked The Chamber for holding the program despite the pandemic and a winter storm that
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THE CHAMBER continues from pg. 16
LET’S CLEAN THE AIR!
210-777-7220 Before Before
After After
Before Before
After After
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EDUCATION
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LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS
EDUCATION
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TENACITY continues from pg. 01
and is a Girl Scout. The 16-year-old also is legally blind. Staying active means not being defined by her disability, said Harper, who swims on three teams — including her varsity squad. “You can be whoever you want to be,” the junior said. “You just have to adapt to it and make it work for you.” Her optical issues started at birth with the discovery of a cataract, originally thought to be a tumor, behind her eye. Diagnosed with glaucoma at age 8, she underwent several surgeries over time and wore an eye patch for more than a decade. One year ago, a corneal-opacity procedure was performed to
completely open Harper’s left eye and give her “two eyes for the first time ever,” her mother, Jennifer Harper, said. Her daughter lacks peripheral vision looking both right and left. Shayler Wagner, Steele assistant principal, describes Harper as a “dedicated and conscientious” student since meeting during her freshman year. “She does not give herself enough credit,” Wagner said. “She is an amazing young lady, and has done some amazing things in her life. Sometimes, she is too hard on herself and doesn’t see how wonderful and amazing she is. It seems to me now that Jazmin is starting to realize just how special and how much of a blessing she is.” Harper hasn’t let her vision impairment prevent her from enjoying life.
that you second-guess, but being tough on her was not one I secondguessed. It’s really helped her.” The pupil has learned to overcome challenges, in and out of the classroom. With studies, she uses both a handheld and electronic magnifier to read text, and a cane to get around the campus. Harper said she recently applied to obtain a guide dog for assistance. In marching band, counting and memorizing every step is crucial; if a beat is missed, her hearing helps with getting back on track. “I have the type of ears that know when I’m off-key,” she said. Counting is paramount for swimming, too, to prevent colliding LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM
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Steele High School junior Jazmin Harper (second from left), who is legally blind, swims competitively and plays in the school band. Here, she listens to coach Doug Hammen giving instructions to the Storm Swim Team at the Schertz YMCA. Photo by RB Ornelas
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The Schertz resident joined marching band this school year, and has been involved in orchestra since sixth grade. She plays the violin, alto saxophone, piano and guitar. Her stepfather’s talent as a violinist was influential; she confesses to “goose bumps” when he plays one of her favorite songs. Her mom, who enjoys singing 1980s tunes and classic rock, inspired Harper’s appreciation for music. “I can go from classical orchestra
to hard metal,” she said. “Each genre has their specialties.” Learning to swim was a necessity at an early age, Harper said, as her mother didn’t want her to topple into a pool and drown. “I didn’t raise Jazmin as a visually impaired daughter,” Jennifer Harper said. “I just raised her as my daughter. Vision was never an excuse for me. You don’t know what to do when your daughter is born with a disability. You make some choices
with the pool wall. The lack of peripheral vision blocks her from seeing other swimmers, she said. Harper credits her family, friends and school instructors for providing aid. “My mom takes me to all my appointments,” she said. “My counselor helps me … to be successful and helps me with advice. My coaches are very (motivating) without being too rough on me.” Jennifer Harper said her daughter wants to teach music someday. The University of Texas at Austin, University of North Texas and Texas State University are on her daughter’s list of next-level academic possibilities, she added. Find this story and more at www. localcommunitynews.com.
26 EAT
LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS
MARCH 16 - APRIL 20, 2021
LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS
EAT LOCAL
27
MARCH 16 - APRIL 20, 2021
LEARN ABOUT THE NEWEST NEIGHBORHOOD PLACES FOR BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER.
HOURS ARE CURRENT AS OF PRESS TIME, BUT CHECK WITH THE BUSINESS FOR UPDATES.
Down-home cooking and Southern charm on the menu
Valarie C. Kitchen’s made-from-scratch recipes inspired her grandchildren to open a restaurant featuring her Southern cooking. Her portrait hangs in the Windcrest restaurant bearing her name. Photos by Olivier J. Bourgoin
by OLIVIER J. BOURGOIN
WINDCREST — Dishing Dixie delicacies and stick-to-your-ribs grub is the aim of the relocated Mrs. Kitchen Soul Food Restaurant, a co-owner says.
Shifting from the original 1,700-square-foot site at 2242 E. Commerce St. in San Antonio, established July 23, 2011, the new 8,500-square
Cheryl Thompson is co-owner of Mrs. Kitchen Soul Food Restaurant; her brother Garlan McPherson is the majority owner. Her son also works at the dining spot, which is open even on Sunday — until they sell out.
based off our grandma’s recipes,” Thompson said. The family hails from Gonzales. Favorites include the top-selling fried chicken, macaroni and cheese, candied yams, collard greens, smothered pork chops, baked ribs, and oxtails. Nothing is wasted, Thompson added. Leftovers go to Haven for Hope or the San Antonio AIDS Foundation. The venue offers plenty of room for physical distancing during the pandemic. To-go orders are welcome; pickup service is coming. Hours are 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday — or until sold out. Find this EAT Local at www. localcommunitynews.com.
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At Mrs. Kitchen Soul Food Restaurant, fried chicken is one of the most popular selections on the menu. Diners also enjoy macaroni and cheese, candied yams, collard greens, pork chops, baked ribs and oxtails. Photo by Olivier J. Bourgoin
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foot eatery opened just a few weeks ago at 5237 Walzem Road. Moving didn’t change the eatery’s philosophy: “Greet every customer warmly with Southern hospitality and
serve them food made with lots of love,” according to co-owner Cheryl Thompson. The family-owned and operated business is named after Valarie
MRS. KITCHEN SOUL FOOD RESTAURANT
5237 Walzem Road in Windcrest For more, call 210-549-4392 or visit www.mrskitchensa.com or www.facebook.com/mrskitchenrestaurant
C. Kitchen, whose framed portrait graces the entrance. The matriarch started the family tradition of cooking homemade food from scratch. “She taught me everything I know,” said Thompson, Kitchen’s oldest granddaughter. “‘Sit down, shut up,
and pay attention’ — that’s what she would tell me.” Thompson’s brother Garlan McPherson is the majority owner, but her son David also works there. “He (McPherson) told me he had a dream of opening a restaurant LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM
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