LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM VOL. 10, ISSUE 2 | AUG. 10-SEPT. 7, 2021
LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS
SUSAN YERKES | PG. 08
PROTECTING HEALTH CARE HEROES
HAPPENING PG. 06
Shrine Auditorium setting for 'the sweet science'
SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF NORTH CENTRAL AND NORTH SAN ANTONIO
CAMPUS | PGS. 14-17
LEARNING GAP, COVID SAFETY
SPECIAL SECTION
DRAFT PLAN SHAPING UP
PG. 30
North Side school districts OK pay raises by EDMOND ORTIZ
Three school districts with North Side campuses are boosting employee pay during the 2021-2022 academic year while also grappling with a post-pandemic COMPENSATION continues on pg. 24
BUY LOCAL | PG. 20
MY GYM NORTH SAN ANTONIO STAFFERS continues on pg. 20
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LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS AUG. 10 - SEPT. 7, 2021
PUBLISHER Jaselle Luna EDITORIAL Editor
Thomas Edwards News Staff
Edmond Ortiz Copy Editor
Arthur Schecter Contributing Writers
Olivier J. Bourgoin, Ron Aaron Eisenberg, Miranda Koerner, Justin Kraiza and Susan Yerkes ART Designer
E. Fisher Contributing Artist
Jeremiah Teutsch ADVERTISING Senior Media Representative
Dawn Radick 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 OUR OTHER PUBLICATIONS Metrocom: 78109, 78148, 78233, 78239, 78108, 78132, 78154, 78266 South San Antonio: 78204, 78210, 78214, 78223, 78235
CORRECTION
A story headlined “About half of the area population has received COVID-19 vaccines” that ran in the June edition of LOCAL Community News should have stated, “56% of people with COVID-19 cases in Bexar County were males and 46% were females. Fewer than 1% of those under age 19 died from COVID-19 while 91% of recorded fatalities were 50 or older.” Reproduction in whole or in part without our permission is prohibited, 2021 Local Community News LLC, all rights reserved.
FROM THE EDITOR
Valuable lessons AFTER A YEARLONG hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this summer LOCAL Community News restarted its newsroom internship program. During the last decade, about two dozen aspiring journalists have trained at LOCAL. With our help, many of these young reporters went on to full-time jobs at other newspapers, or in public-relations or marketing positions. The feedback we receive about the program has almost always been positive. We’ve also updated the job description from “news intern” to “editorial assistant.” Semantics, yes. No matter what, though, the position calls for a bright, eager and inquisitive young reporter, and this summer we’ve found one in Justin Kraiza, a University of the Incarnate Word masscommunication student. Justin has shown great promise. This semester, he’ll be the editor of the Logos, the UIW student newspaper. I also have to thank the instructors who have inspired Justin and his peers, past and present. I am always pleased by the level of support and interest these teachers show in our program, principally at UIW, Texas A&M University-San Antonio, the University of Texas at San Antonio and Trinity University. Justin has reminded me once again that in spite of dire predictions for the news industry, many young people still see a future in the profession. Thomas Edwards is the editor of LOCAL Community News. Reach him at tedwards@ localcommunitynews.com.
ON THE COVER: The Class of 2021 at Edison High School head to the commencement ceremony June 22 at Alamo Stadium. San Antonio Independent School District approved its 2021-2022 academic-year budget while other local school systems are preparing theirs. See the story on page 01. Courtesy photo/SAISD
6 HAPPENING AUG. 10 - SEPT. 7, 2021
AUGUST
PLAN YOUR MONTH WITH OUR CALENDAR OF UPCOMING EVENTS IN THE COMMUNITY.
City Councils/ School Districts Hollywood Park: 6 p.m. Aug. 17; 2 Mecca Drive Hill Country Village: 5 p.m. Aug. 5; 116 Aspen Lane Shavano Park: 6:30 p.m. Aug. 23; 900 Saddletree Court Castle Hills: 6:30 p.m. Aug. 10; 209 Lemonwood Drive Alamo Heights: 5:30 p.m. Aug. 23; 6116 Broadway Olmos Park: 6 p.m. Aug. 18; 120 W. El Prado Drive Terrell Hills: 5 p.m. Aug. 9; 5100 N. New Braunfels Ave. Northside ISD: 6 p.m. Aug. 24; 7001 Culebra Road North East ISD: 5:30 p.m. Aug. 9; 8961 Tesoro Drive San Antonio ISD: 5:30 p.m. Aug. 16; 406 Barrera St. Alamo Heights ISD: 6 p.m. Aug. 12; 100 Woodridge St. POP-UP TASTING
AUG. 10
Maverick Texas Brasserie, 710 S. St. Mary’s St., hosts a pop-up tasting for people interested in sampling from and giving input on menus of HAPPENING continues on pg. 09
POP-UP TASTING Come on down to Southtown to Maverick Texas Brasserie, 710 S. St. Mary’s St., for a pop-up tasting to provide input on menus for two forthcoming Pearl restaurants, Allora and Arrosta. For reservations and other details, visit https://mavericktexas.com. Courtesy photo
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.
We are seeking applicants from the northwest quadrant of our service area to fill a position on the CPS Energy Board of Trustees. The CPS Energy Board of Trustees works with management to oversee the operation of the nation’s largest public power, natural gas, and electric company. The five-member board is comprised of the Mayor of San Antonio and one citizen from each of the four geographical quadrants of our service area. Members of the Board of Trustees serve a term of five years and are eligible to serve one additional term. Applicants must be a United States Citizen. Applicants must reside in Bexar County. Applicants must reside in Quadrant 1.
Applications must be received by 5 p.m. on August 31, 2021. APPLY ONLINE Visit cpsenergy.com/trustees to learn more about the opportunity to serve as a Trustee. Other resources, such as the application, a Quadrant Map, and information about the Board’s authority are available online, or by emailing trustees@cpsenergy.com.
APPLY BY MAIL You may obtain a paper copy of the application from our Customer Service Walk-in Centers or our headquarters at 500 McCullough.
Learn more and apply at cpsenergy.com/trustees
OPINION
8
LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS AUG. 10 - SEPT. 7, 2021
Health care heroes need help, no more hurting by SUSAN YERKES
EARLY IN MARY HEYE’S career as a nurse, an angry patient left the emergency room, returned with a gun, and shot and killed a male nurse.
In a long career in San Antonio and elsewhere, Heye has encountered many other incidents of violent verbal or even physical abuse against health care workers. The problem, on the increase for years, has risen sharply during the COVID-19 pandemic for these “health care heroes” — doctors, nurses, lab techs and other medical workers. Violence against health care workers, particularly nurses, was getting worse long before the pandemic. In the past 10 years, some national studies have shown a 110% spike in violent injuries to medical workers.
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Statistics show 50% to a whopping 70% of violent assaults on the job are suffered by health care workers, from homehealth aides to physicians. Many more go unreported. Windcrest Councilwoman Cindy Strzelecki, a veteran nurse, health care
educator and administrator, has seen it happen countless times. As chair of the Texas Nurses Association Government Affairs Committee, she has worked for legislative changes to improve the situation. She has seen some progress – for instance, up until a few years ago, Texas law made it a felony for someone being rushed to the hospital to assault police officers, firemen or other first responders. “But when they crossed the doorstep to the emergency room, if they assaulted a nurse or doctor, it was a misdemeanor,” Strzelecki told me. The law finally changed; testimony included a nurse whose finger was bitten off. The abuse happens in all areas where patients and their families are coping with life and death. Because nurses interact the most with them, they often take the brunt. Doctors are not exempt. Recently, veteran San Antonio physician Carl Blond told me he was able to resolve a potentially dangerous situation when a man angry about his elderly mother’s condition confronted another physician. “The doctor was tiny – maybe 100 pounds, and the guy was about 250 pounds, and he was yelling at her and threatening to hurt her. She was terrified,” Blond said. “It happens. It has a lot to do with trust. People make quick judgments, and when doctors or nurses are wearing masks, that
can make it worse. A lot of families were angry that they couldn’t see their family members in the hospital during the pandemic. And these days with managed care, some people feel we are trying to limit care instead of help.” In the last Legislative session, House Bill 326 would have required health care organizations to develop clear policies to protect all employees from workplace violence. The bill passed the House but did not get out of committee in the Senate. Another bill that faced the same fate would have made it presumptive that health care workers who developed COVID-19 would be covered by workers compensation, the way first responders are. Currently, many health care workers who get COVID face long struggles trying to prove where they contracted the disease. “It’s frustrating,” Strzelecki said. “There’s all this talk about ‘health care heroes’ but sometimes I wonder how our society has gotten to the point where health care providers — nurses, nursing assistants, techs, all of us — have to deal with this.” New laws may help, if they’re passed. But maybe awareness of the stresses nurses and others face can make us more understanding, and spur employers to do more to protect the men and women on the front lines of life and death. syerkes@localcommunitynews.com
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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.
HAPPENING
TOUCH-FREE ART CRAWL
AUG. 10
ENDLESS LOVE JAM
AUG. 13-14
Join the “1st Annual Endless Love Jam” with featured artists Lyfe Jennings, RL, Pleasure P and Adina Howard at 5 p.m. from The Espee, 1174 E. Commerce St. For tickets, call 210-905-6916.
ILIZA SHLESINGER
AUG. 15
San Antonio residents can experience the culture and arts of the West for 50% off general admission,
O U T S TA N D I N G Real Estate Market
O U TS TA N DGI N G O U T S TA N D I N Time to Sell your Home O U T S TA GN ONUD TIReal SNTA DING Estate Market Real Estate Market Real Estate Market EXHIBIT AT THE MCNAY MUSEUM 00G O U T S TA N D ,I0N THROUGH AUG. 15 ONU UDTTISS TA Dyour INN Time N to buy new G home O U T S TA N G O TA N D I G Time to Sell your Home Witness a show of famed California artist and teacher John Baldessari’s “California Dreaming” at the McNay Art Museum, 6000 N. New Braunfels Ave. Visitors experience seven circular photos with corresponding primary colors including red, yellow, and blue to involve viewers in artistic interpretation. For more, visit https://www.mcnayart.org.
Time to Sell your Home Time to Sell your Home
• S O D• O U T S TA N D I N G CALL ME TODAY O U T S TA G NnewDhome ONUD TISN I N GFORL Time toTA buy your
TOBIN ADULT CRAFT
AUG. 17
OUTSTANDING
Time to buy your newTime hometo buy your new home
REAL ESTATE SERVICE
CALL ME TODAY FOR CALL ME TODAY CALLFOR ME TODAY FOR
OUTSTANDING OUTSTANDING OUTSTANDING
Join an arts-and-crafts experience that involves making toys for loved ones, 6-8 p.m., at the Tobin Library O U T S TA N D I N G Real Estate Market at Oakwell, 4134 Harry Wurzbach O U T S TA N D I N G Road. For more, visit https://www. Time to Sell your Home mysapl.org or call 210-207-9040.
REAL ESTATESERVICE SERVICE REAL ESTATE SERVICE REAL ESTATE
O U T S TA N D I N G
VACCINATIONS FOR THE VIRUS
AUG. 17 & AUG. 21
Time to buy your new home
CALL ME TODAY FOR
The Witte Museum, 3801 Broadway, OUTSTANDING hosts pop-up vaccination clinics, 10 REAL ESTATE SERVICE a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Witte Museum’s Prassel Auditorium. Enter through the south side, across the street REALTOR® from the Brackenridge garage. The
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LOCALS DAY
ANN VAN PELT
Join a virtual film screening of the “Labyrinth of Peace,” a six-part series that explores the immediate aftermath of World War II in Switzerland. Hosted by the Jewish Film Festival of San Antonio and the Austin Jewish Film Festival, admission is $25. For more, visit https://austinjff.org.
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Attend the “Back In Action” tour of famed female comedian Iliza Shlesinger, 7 p.m. at the Tobin Center For The Performing Arts, 100 Auditorium Circle. Admission costs range from $49 to $165 with VIP packages. For tickets and more, visit https://www.tobincenter.org.
MONTE VISTA IS SOLD ON
SAN ANTONIO, TX 78209
AUG. 13
THROUGH AUG. 15
,000
Bring newborns and infants, up to 24 months old, for a single-use and multisensory art experience that enhances caregiver-child interactions, 4-6 p.m. at the San Antonio Museum of Art, 200 W. Jones Ave. The free event includes interactive swag bags. For more, visit https:// www.samuseum.org/events/eventcalendar/?year=2021&month=8.
FILM FESTIVAL
$250
two forthcoming Pearl restaurants, Allora and Arrosta. Prepaid tickets at $50 per person will include four courses including antipasti, pasta, main, and dolci, with additional wine pairings available for $25. For reservations and other details, visit https://mavericktexas.com.
10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Briscoe Western Art Museum, 210 W. Market St. For more, visit https://www. briscoemuseum.org.
$250
HAPPENING continues from pg. 07
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ANN VAN PELT
REALTOR® c 210.844.7001 avanpelt@phyllisbrowning.com 6061 BROADWAY SAN ANTONIO, TX 78209 WWW.PHYLLISBROWNING.COM
ANN VAN VANPELT PELT ANN VAN PELT ANN
® ® REALTOR REALTOR 210.844.7001 avanpelt@phyllisbrowning.com avanpelt@phyllisbrowning.com c 210.844.7001 avanpelt@phyllisbrowning.com cc210.844.7001 6061 BROADWAY SAN ANTONIO, TX 78209 6061 BROADWAY SANANTONIO, ANTONIO,TX TX 78209 6061 BROADWAY SAN 78209 HAPPENING continues on pg. 10 ANN VAN PELT REALTOR WWW.PHYLLISBROWNING.COM WWW.PHYLLISBROWNING.COM WWW.PHYLLISBROWNING.COM c 210.844.7001 avanpelt@phyllisbrowning.com ®
LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM WWW.PHYLLISBROWNING.COM
6061 BROADWAY SAN ANTONIO, TX 78209
THREE CONVENIENT CAMPUSES SERVING SAN ANTONIO I
NORTH CENTRAL: 12222 Huebner Rd STONE OAK : 20615 Huebner Rd. DOMINION : 6185 Camp Bullis Rd.
I 10 HAPPENING
NORTH CENTRAL:12222 Huebner Rd. 78230 STONE OAK: 20615 Huebner Rd. 78258
AUG. 10 - SEPT. 7, 2021
HAPPENING continues from pg. 09
AUG. 22 The Professor UnderFunk, Cecil Yancey, a blues musician and singer-songwriter, performs from 6-9 p.m. at Sanchos Cantina & Cocina, 628 Jackson St. For more, visit https://allevents.in/.
Pfizer vaccine is provided free to everyone 12 and older who are unvaccinated or still require their second dose. Afterward, receive one free general-admission ticket to NOW ENROLLING CHILDREN 6 WEEKS - 5 YEARS OF AGE. the Witte Museum, valid anytime. Located in North Central San Antonio. For map and details, visit https:// TAIHU ROCK EXHIBITION www.wittemuseum.org/pop-upAUG. 24 L vaccination-clinic/. Witness artistic presence of 9 P R O T O C Othe ID - 1 C OV IS Y Taihu rock at the San ET SaAF6.5-ton FIRST Museum of Art, 200 Antonio BOOST HEIGHTS ATHLETICS W. Jones Ave. The Taihu rock is AUG. 18 installed outdoors so it’s visible A barbecue-dinner fundraiser from both the museum and the for Alamo Heights High School River Walk. Admission is free for athletics is 5-7 p.m. at the new members and $20 for nonmember campus football stadium, 6900 adults. For more, visit https://local. Broadway. Cost is $12 per plate. aarp.org/. Attendees may choose where their donation goes. Also, check out 210.694.0740 To Add Your Name To The Interest List Contact the new campus athletic facilities. LANDA MYSTERY BOOK CLUB For more, visit http://www. AUG. 26 muleteambarbecue.com or https:// Participate in the Landa Mystery www.alamoheightsmuleteam.com. Book Club for literary discussion and social camaraderie, noon to 1 p.m. at the Landa Branch Library, ROCKIN’ AT THE ALAMODOME 233 Bushnell Ave. To inquire about AUG. 20 the most recent book selection, 1980s rock bands Motley Crue, Def call 210-207-9090 or contact event Leppard, Poison and Joan Jett and instructor Karen Sebesta at karen. the Blackhearts take center stage, sebesta@sanantonio.gov. 4:30 p.m. at the Alamodome, 100 Montana St. Standard admission is $69 each. For tickets and more, visit “STEEL MAGNOLIAS” https://www.ticketmaster.com. AUG. 26-28 North East Independent School District educators will perform COMIC AND TOY SHOW “Steel Magnolias” at Reagan High AUG. 21 School, 19000 Ronald Reagan Join “Eckman’s Summertime Drive. For tickets, times, and more, Show,” an event featuring card call 210-356-1828 or visit https:// collecting, comics and toys at the reaganstage.org. San Antonio Shrine Auditorium, 901 N. Loop 1604 West. Admission is $10 per person and free for SIPS AND GARDEN SUNSETS children ages 10 and under AUG. 27 accompanied by paying adults. For Experience San Antonio’s urban more, visit https://allevents.in. oasis, craft drinks, games and DJcurated music, 6-9 p.m. at the San Antonio Botanical Garden, 555 THE PROFESSOR UNDERFUNK
GU SPROUTIN P SOON
GROWIN
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RESTORING THE PAST WITH DIGNITY Please join us for our information meetings to learn more about Morningside at The Chandler Estate! D.R. Semmes Family YMCA at Tripoint 3233 N St. Mary’s St., San Antonio, TX 78212 Thursday, Sept. 09, 2021 • 10.30 a.m. RSVP us on or before Monday, Sept. 06, 2021 Sarah Mehrkens Marketing & Sales Coordinator sarah.mehrkens@mmliving.org • (210) 940-0775
NG FRUITFUL CHILDREN GROWI
AUG. 10 - SEPT. 7, 2021
LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS
HAPPENING continues from pg. 10
ALAMO CITY MOPAR CAR SHOW
Funston Place. Bring a lawn chair and blanket. $30 entry fee for visitors, and $27 for members. For more, visit https://www.sabot.org.
The greater San Antonio area’s oldest and largest Modern Mopar Enthusiasts Club for the Dodge Charger, Challenger, Magnum and Chrysler 300 is 6-10 p.m. at the Tower of the Americas, 739 E. César E. Chávez Blvd. For more, visit https://www.toweroftheamericas. com.
SEPT. 4
PRO BOXING AT THE SHRINE AUDITORIUM
AUG. 28-29
Join a two-day live boxing event, featuring 10 professional bouts at the San Antonio Shrine Auditorium, 901 N. Loop 1604 West. Doors open at 5 p.m. Aug. 28 and close 11 p.m. Aug. 29. Admission costs $30 per person. For tickets and more, call 210605-8933 or visit https://www. eventbrite.com. 9.5x5.17_printready.pdf
1
EXTREME CREATURES
THROUGH SEPT. 6
Take a glimpse at the diversity of the natural world during the “Extreme Creatures: Life at the Limits,” 10 a.m. at the Witte Museum, 3801 Broadway. Attendees can explore creative 7/30/21
HAPPENING courtship, reproduction strategies, plus hunting and defense systems of animal species. Tickets are $5 plus museum admission, and $4 for Witte members. For more, visit https:// www.wittemuseum.org/extremecreatures-life-at-the-limits/.
MONDAYS
SO, YOU THINK YOU CAN SING San Antonio Chordsmen, a barbershop chorus, rehearses at 7 p.m. at Emerald Oaks Retirement Center, 20302 Bulverde Road. Newcomers are welcome to audition. For updates, visit sachordsmen.org. Meanwhile, The Friends in Harmony Chorus also exercise vocal cords at 6:45 p.m. in University United Methodist Church, 5084 De Zavala
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Road. For updates or cancellations, contact Wendell Peters at wendellpeters@sbcglobal.net.
MONDAYS
ROTARY CLUB The North Central Rotary Club of San Antonio meets from 5:30-7 p.m. weekly at Costa Pacifica, 434 N.W. Loop 1604, Suite 2101. Attendees may gather in person or online. For more, visit https://portal. clubrunner.ca/8164.
TUESDAYS
WEIGHT-LOSS SUPPORT GROUP T.O.P.S., or Take Off Pounds Sensibly, meets at 10 a.m. (weigh-in HAPPENING continues on pg. 18
2:05 PM
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17702 NW Military Hwy | 210-929-9203
12
LOWDOWN AUG. 10 - SEPT. 7, 2021
Joyful, Academically Excellent Schools in Your Community Escuelas alegres y académicamente excelentes en su comunidad LIMITED SEATS STILL AVAILABLE FOR GRADES PRE-K – 12 LOS ASIENTOS LIMITADOS AÚN ESTÁN DISPONIBLES PARA LOS GRADOS PRE-K - 12
TAKE A QUICK LOOK AT WHAT’S NEW IN THE COMMUNITY FROM OPENINGS AND CLOSINGS TO NEWS TIDBITS.
Open and Opening Soon MY GYM NORTH SAN ANTONIO, 15614 Huebner Road, Suite 103, uses fun activities to help children shape skills and build confidence, a company representative said. My Gym also hosts gymnastic events, birthday parties, Parents’ Nights Out and more. For details, call 210-5804636 or visit www.mygym.com/northsanantonio. (See story on page 20) STOUT HOUSE, 22810 U.S. 281 North, Suite 103,
Tuition-Free Public Schools
FreeBreakfast Breakfast and Free and Lunch For All Lunch yFor All Desayuno Almuerzo
Extracurricular Activities
Free Bus Transportation
Escuelas públicas gratuitas
Desayuno y almuerzo gratis
Actividades extracurriculares
Transporte escolar gratis
Gratis para Todos
ENROLL TODAY • INSCRÍBETE HOY • WWW.KIPPTEXAS.ORG
Rich in tradition, Devoted to care, Together in community.
is a full bar featuring several craft beers on tap, multiple televisions and games. This fourth Stout House joins establishments at 18730 Stone Oak Parkway, Bandera Road near Helotes and Potranco Road. Hours are noon to 2 a.m. daily. For more, visit http://www.stouthousesa.com or https://www.facebook.com/stouthousetpc.
RANCHO DIAZ, 303 Pearl Parkway, Suite 101 at Pearl, planned a mid-August opening to feature a rotating collection of vintage and modern home products “that nod to a desert-modern aesthetic for foodies and home-decor enthusiasts.” Feliz Modern owners Ginger and Mario Diaz are behind the venture. For more, visit ranchodiaz.com. POWERMASTER FITNESS, 15747 San Pedro Ave. in
Faith Based INDEPENDENT LIVING • ASSISTED LIVING MEMORY CARE • EXTENDED NURSING CARE • In-Home Care provided by Sisters Care at The Village • Mass offered twice a day • Multiple floor plans • Learning opportunities at UIW
• All faiths welcome • Two locations for dining • Social & recreational activities • Transportation available six days a week
TheVillageIW.org Call Us Today! 210-610-8457 License
#’s 000777 (AL-A) 101505 (AL-B), 100473 (ALZ), 011872 (HCSSA)
Hill Country Village, offers strength, cardio and personal training, fitness classes and nutrition coaching. Hours are 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. For more, call 210-890-1277 or visit https:// powermasterfitness.com.
LAS PALAPAS, 1208 Austin Highway, is a new location for the local Tex-Mex restaurant chain. Hours are 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Wednesday, and 6 a.m. to midnight all other days. For more, call 210-598-8735 or visit https:// laspalapas.com/austinhwy. ECOMAIDS OF SHAVANO PARK-HOLLYWOOD PARKTIMBERWOOD PARK offers environmentally responsible, nontoxic residential cleaning
AUG. 10 - SEPT. 7, 2021
LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS
LOWDOWN 13 services, a company official said. Professionally trained greencleaning staffers are bonded and insured, employees noted. Ecomaids also offers residential and commercial disinfecting. For more, call 210-963-5596 or visit www. ecomaids.com/shavano-park-tx.
CLEAR LIGHT COFFEE CO., 12656
MY GYM NORTH SAN ANTONIO My Gym North at 15614 Huebner Road, Suite 103, debuted in April. The 3,000-square-foot facility offers much more than just gymnastics for youngsters ages 4 to 12. Courtesy photo
West Ave., offers 14 kinds of java and teas. Next door to Two Bros. BBQ Market, this fall Clear Light plans to add an evening wine bar and English-style breakfast food trailer. Hours are 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. weekdays, 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, and 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday. Follow @clearlight_satx on Instagram for more.
GRUB GAB: Bistr09, 6106 Broadway in Alamo Heights, offers a pizza menu with pies baked in a new wood-fired oven. Wild Barley Kitchen Co., a local food trailer at 2202 Broadway, plans to open a permanent location at 8403 Broadway, in the former Lee’s El Taco Garage spot. For more, visit https://www.facebook.com/ wildbarleykitchenco. The Pink Hill, 2012 Broadway, a space featuring various brands of local retail/ boutique and food vendors, intends to also have a cocktail bar soon. Follow @thepinkhill on Instagram for more. SoHo Wine & Martini Bar is moving to 8055 West Ave., a former Castle Hills Starbucks, from its LOWDOWN continues on pg. 25
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LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS SPECIAL SECTION AUG. - SEPT. 7, 2021
SPECIAL SECTION
A new academic year is dawning, but it’s filled with plenty of challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic forever altered the face of Texas education, and now educators, campus staff, students and their parents are all adjusting to new ways of learning, coping and catching up. For more, check out the stories in this month’s special section.
You have real accessibility. A family of five colleges conveniently located near you – Northeast Lakeview College, Northwest Vista College, Palo Alto College, St. Philip’s College, and San Antonio College. You have real choices. Select from a wide range of academic and career training paths. One of them is surely just right for you. You have real affordability. Thanks to low tuition and easily available financial aid, you can follow the first two years of your college dream with no money headaches. You have real help. Open enrollment means that getting into college here is a snap. And you’ll have your own advisor from day one until you graduate or finish career training.
The key to finding work you’ll love tomorrow is finding a college that works for you today. And with the Alamo Colleges District, you have what it takes, because we give you everything you need on your first steps toward success.
So, put in the work and in two years or less, you’ll have a real paycheck to take to the bank - or real college credits to take to a 4-year university. You have what it takes!
AT ALAMO.EDU
66 CALL 210-212-52
FOR ASSISTANCE
AUG. 10 - SEPT. 7, 2021
LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS SPECIAL SECTION
15
COVID-19
SLAMMED AREA STUDENTS by RON AARON EISENBERG
LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM
EDUCATORS are unveiling strategies for the new academic year to help close the learning gap experienced by thousands of students when COVID-19 shuttered Texas campuses in early spring 2020.
Texas schools have been fully reopened for in-person learning during the 2021-2022 academic year. Improving math scores and offering remedial education are on the drawing board, teachers said. After Gov. Greg Abbott closed schools in March 2020 as a result of the global pandemic, many parents with little or no teaching experience were forced to help educate their kids at home by supplementing their school’s virtual-learning programs. Virtual learning became almost universal, whether the child attended a public, charter, private or parochial campus. For too many households, the exercise proved a dismal failure. Recent statewide test results confirm the shortcomings of remote learning, officials acknowledged.
The Texas Education Agency recently reported, “As a result of the learning disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of students not meeting grade level increased from 2019 across all subject areas and grade levels, with English I and English II being the only exceptions … mathematics reflects the largest decline in proficiency across all grade levels.” Public schools use the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness to measure student proficiency. “I think the (standardized test) data is concerning. What we need to be focused on is getting our kids back into school,” said Colleen Dippel, founder and CEO of Families Empowered. “Virtual learning did not work, especially for our most vulnerable kids. Parents should be working with schools to be sure we can get our kids into classrooms.” Families Empowered is a nonprofit offering free services to families in Austin, Houston, San Antonio and Tarrant County to help them understand and navigate all of the available school choices in the state. “Parents have the option
With Texas students required to return to in-person classroom learning this school year, educators say they have devised various approaches to close a learning gap that grew out of months of virtual instruction at home during the COVID-19 pandemic. File photo
of redoing (prekindergarten) and kindergarten, if they so choose, but they have to let their districts know in writing before the school year begins,” Dippel added. “If a student failed the STAAR exam, they are entitled to tutoring, paid for by the state of Texas. For kids who did poorly or squeaked by, parents should ask the schools to help those kids.” For more on Families Empowered, visit www.familiesempowered.org or the Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ FamiliesEmpowered/. This summer, many school districts offered classes for learners who needed remedial help to catch up in math and other subjects. Area school districts will be doing more for students as the new school year rolls out, including in the Alamo Heights Independent School District. “Although in AHISD we did not see the degree of learning loss that other districts are reporting, through progressmonitoring efforts this past year, we know
we have students in need of remediation and support,” said AHISD Superintendent Dana Bashara. She added, “In addition to the robust summer school program we offered those students, we are moving forward with plans to hire additional interventionists at the secondary level to support students in reading and math and to get them back on track.” Southside Independent School District Superintendent Rolando Ramirez added, “At Southside ISD while the focus will be on all subjects, emphasis has been placed on math by the district including math intervention classes and tutorials this upcoming school year.” Education officials across the greater San Antonio area said as a result of the low STAAR test scores, school districts are united in their commitment to help students climb out of the COVID-19 hole. tips@localcommunitynews.com Find this story and more at www. localcommunitynews.com.
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LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS SPECIAL SECTION AUG. 10 - SEPT. 7, 2021
BACK TO SCHOOL, BUT HOW SAFE? by MIRANDA KOERNER
BY THE SECOND WEEK OF AUGUST, many school districts around San Antonio will be flinging their doors wide open, though the scenes inside will look very different.
After schools remained closed or partially closed due to the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, and thousands of children elected to continue remote learning, lawmakers have mandated a wholesale return to classrooms. On July 9, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended that all kindergarten through 12thgrade schools resume in-person learning, with elementary school children wearing masks and staying 3 feet apart to stay safe. In high schools and middle schools, with universal masking, students also should stay 3 feet apart, or 6 feet in communities with high transmission rates, the CDC said. However, Gov. Greg Abbott in May issued an order that prohibited state governmental entities including schools from
mandating face masks, leading local districts to implement various procedures. Federal, state and local officials all advocate full vaccinations for eligible ages. Because the only vaccinations for children currently are for ages 12 and over, the CDC recommends that schools serving younger students continue to “implement layered protection strategies.” In mid-July, the American
Academy of Pediatrics recommended that all teachers, staff and students wear face masks. The academy reasoned that universal masking was easier to carry out than requiring face coverings for only the unvaccinated. As of press time, the Texas Education Agency had not released any additional updated COVID-19 requirements for the opening of schools. Funded, full-time remote learning for districts is no longer an option
CHECKLIST: PLANNING FOR VIRTUAL OR AT-HOME LEARNING
1
SETTING UP
2
PLANNING
3
MENTAL HEALTH
Though many schools say they will do what they can to help students with underlying health issues or other conditions learn from home (graphic, above), funding for virtual instruction is not available from the state. Instead, pupils are flocking back to classrooms, where they can voluntarily wear masks and being fully vaccinated is encouraged for the appropriate ages. File photo
AUG. 10 - SEPT. 7, 2021
LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS SPECIAL SECTION
with the death of House Bill 1468 in the Legislature. It would have allowed students with compromised immune systems or parents on the fence about vaccines for their children the option to keep learning from home by continuing to provide virtual-instruction resources to public school districts. The Senate passed the bill, but when House Democrats broke quorum to kill a disputed elections measure, HB 1468 lost traction. The legislation would have made it possible for schools to continue offering virtual learning for up to 10% of the student body without a loss of state funding. Because funding for public education in the state is based on average daily attendance, TEA authorized a temporary waiver that said remote-learning students could be counted to qualify for funding as though they were in school. The expiration of the waiver means most Texas districts can’t afford remote-learning programs without state help. As when the pandemic began in March 2020 and classes were shuttered, many schools are in new territory with the start of the 20212022 academic year. In the North East Independent School District, letters were sent to parents and community members informing them virtual learning would cease due to the failure of HB 1468 to pass. Otherwise, it appears that life at NEISD is getting back to normal. “On May 18, Gov. Greg Abbott issued an executive order that prohibited governmental entities in Texas from requiring or mandating mask wearing after June 4,” said Aubrey Chancellor, an NEISD
spokeswoman. Also, according to officials, there will be handsanitizing stations in classrooms, water fountains will be closed, and letters will still be sent home if a student tests positive for COVID-19. Quarantining for pupils is not required. “We continue to focus on what the district can control,” Superintendent Sean Maika said in a statement. The Harlandale Independent School District is implementing the CDC’s multipronged approach to protect students from COVID. All students will attend in person, said spokeswoman Mariana Veraza Bravo. “All students will have the option to wear face masks or face shields but will not be required to,” Bravo said. “(Gov. Greg Abbott) has made it illegal for schools to mandate mask wearing. We will also continue monitoring the cleanliness of the school and encourage hand washing and using hand sanitizer.” According to Bravo, “For all students over 12 years old and staff, we are highly recommending being vaccinated. We have hosted many vaccination clinics in the district. Finally, we will have weekly COVID testing available for students who would like to be tested.” Many private schools are implementing procedures that mirror the public-education sector. Antonian College Preparatory High School in Castle Hills, for example, is not requiring face masks if students are vaccinated. “We continue to follow the guidance of the (Archdiocese of San Antonio) and CDC and state guidelines,” said Mason Finch, director of communications. “If you’re vaccinated, you don’t have to wear a mask indoors; but if you’re not LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM
vaccinated, you need to wear a mask indoors.” Finch added, “In terms of capacity, we’re returning to normal operations as much as we can be. All of the students can be back on campus and parents are welcome to come on campus. We’re going back to normal and opening up 100%.” Parents concerned about children with health issues can talk to the school about an individual plan for students on a case-by-case basis, Finch said. In addition, Antonian will be continuing many of the COVID protocols that became normal during the height of the pandemic. “Even though we are going back to that normalcy before COVID, we’re
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keeping our hand sanitizations in place and keeping cleaning protocols in place between classes,” Finch said. “We’ll continue to sanitize and clean throughout the day, as well as enforce proper handwashing protocols. We’re definitely still keeping that in mind.” Still, other private and charter schools remain cautious with the ever-changing COVID landscape. All Texas KIPP public charter schools — or Knowledge is Power Program — will receive updated safety protocols as campuses get ready to open, said Saki Indakwa, executive communications manager. tips@localcommunitynews.com Find this story and more at www. localcommunitynews.com.
18 HAPPENING AUG. 10 - SEPT. 7, 2021
HAPPENING continues from pg. 11
SATURDAYS
FARMERS’ MARKETS 9-9:45 a.m.) inside House of Prayer Lutheran Church, 10226 Ironside Drive. For updates, call Carolyn at 210415-0937.
TUESDAYS AND SATURDAYS
OLMOS BASIN FARMERS MARKET San Antonio Farmer’s Market Association offers area growers’ farmfresh produce from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 100 Jackson Keller Road. For updates, visit sanantoniofarmersmarket.org.
WEDNESDAYS
FOOD FOR THOSE IN NEED Manna Food Ministry at Mission City Church, 2220 N.W. Military Highway, is open at 10 a.m. for food distribution to needy families. For more, call 210377-3030 or visit https://missioncity. church/events/manna-food-ministry.
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THURSDAYS
STONE OAK ROTARY CLUB Guest speakers normally visit from noon to 1 p.m. at The Club at Sonterra, 901 E. Sonterra Blvd., but during the COVD-19 outbreak, sessions are over Zoom. For speakers or updates, visit www.stoneoaksarotary. org, call Erin Nevelow at 210-5280377, or email erinnevelow.rotary@ gmail.com.
THURSDAYS
ROTARY CLUB MEETING Northwest Rotary Club members gather at noon in Outback Steakhouse, 12511 Interstate 10 West. For updates or cancellations, call 210-576-5475.
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ONGOING
ACTIVITIES FOR OLDER ADULTS The Barshop Jewish Community Center hosts 1 p.m. virtual fun over Zoom. Tuesdays are reserved for chatting; bingo and more is every Wednesday; also, a movie on the first and third Thursday of the month. For links or updates, call Isabel Resendez at 210-302-6860 or email resendezi@jcc-sa.org.
ONGOING
NEVER TOO OLD TO LEARN The North East Independent School District Community Education and Northside Adult & Community Education present programs containing a multitude of enriching courses for all ages. For the former, most classes are taught in NEISD facilities or the district’s Community Learning Center, 8750 Tesoro Drive. For more, call 210-407-0140 or visit https:// communityed.neisd.net; for NISD, visit www.nisd.net/ace.
ELSEWHERE
ONGOING
DRIVING SENIORS
FRIDAYS
Northeast Senior Assistance, 2903 Nacogdoches Road, is in need of volunteers to drive seniors to appointments and such. For updates or cancellations, call 210-967-6372.
Enjoy free weekly concerts at the Tower of the Americas, 739 E. César E. Chávez Blvd, for a night featuring local food and sounds from artists and bands.
SUBMITTING EVENTS: Email all the details along with your contact information two months in advance to tips@localcommunitynews.com.
PARTY AT THE PLAZA
Localcommunitynews.com
Come to 16607 Huebner Road from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for local and organic produce, plus baked goods and handcrafted products. For updates, visit hillcountryfarmersmarket.org. Also, Four Seasons Market, 11602 Huebner Road in Huebner Oaks shopping center, sells wares from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For updates or cancellations, call 972-884-0680.
HAPPENING
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FARMERS' MARKETS Looking for fresh produce and artisanal wares? Then visit the various farmers’ markets on the North Side — there’s plenty, from the Olmos Basin to the Village at Stone Oak. Check this edition’s Happening Local for listings. Stock photo
Discover a more personal health care experience at WellMed, call 210-824-4584 or visit wellmedhealthcare.com
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AT A L A M O H E I G H TS
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20 BUY
LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS AUG. 10 - SEPT. 7, 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.
Staffers want parents, kids to flip for My Gym North by OLIVIER J. BOURGOIN
WHAT TO DO when you’re a mother of four young children and you have a background in rhythmic gymnastics?
Open a gym for children, of course. And that’s exactly what Olga Bashukova Padilla did. A native of Tomsk, a city located in central Russia northeast of Kazakhstan and northwest of Mongolia, Olga and her husband, attorney José Padilla, moved to San Antonio two years ago. My Gym North San Antonio at 15614 Huebner Road,
The staff at My Gym North have fitness classes for ‘mommy and me,’ dance classes including ballet and hip-hop, cheer, tumbling and ninja training for children. Courtesy photo
Suite 103, debuted in April. “Growing up in Russia, I was involved in the sport of rhythmic gymnastics for 10 years and I achieved the highest level that can be reached in my country, which is called master of sports,” Olga Padilla said. “My husband was actually the one who came up with the idea for us to open this business.” The 3,000-square-foot facility offers much more than just gymnastics for youngsters ages 4 to 12. “We are a full-service facility with a full range of activities for children,” Padilla said. “We have fitness classes for mommy and me, dance classes (ballet and hip-hop), cheer, tumbling and ninja training for kids.” Added gym director Alyssa Gerosa, “We
offer space for same-age private birthday parties in blocks of one and a half to two hours, which can either be structured or free play, at the customer’s request.” Also offered are private play dates similar to birthday parties but with less structure. Summer camps are also available. There is a parents’ night out 5:308:30 p.m. the first Friday of each month for toilet-trained children, she added. It includes dinner, a kids movie and various activities. The staff is trained in some aspects of sports medicine; special-needs children are also welcome. Hours of operation for other programs vary, so call or consult the website. Find this BUY Local at www. localcommunitynews.com.
MY GYM NORTH SAN ANTONIO
15614 Huebner Road, Suite 103 For more, call 210-580-4636 or visit www.mygym.com/northsanantonio.
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LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS
CITY
AUG. 10 - SEPT. 7, 2021
North SA leaders lay out budget goals by EDMOND ORTIZ
Including fixes to roads and sidewalks in the Fiscal Year 2022 budget is a top priority for two North Side councilmen and many of their constituents, but relief from property taxes is going nowhere.
Both District 9 Councilman John Courage and District 10’s Clayton Perry have indicated support for property-tax reform, however, the measure doesn’t have enough backing from their colleagues. Local officials attending a budget goal-setting session June 25 at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center saw promising financial data as the city emerges from the latest round of the
COVID-19 pandemic. San Antonio projects better-thananticipated revenues from sales tax and CPS Energy. The FY 2022 trial budget uses new
Inside the only Public Hebrew Language Academy in South Texas
Founded in 2013, The Eleanor Kolitz Hebrew Language Academy is located here in our great South Texas city of San Antonio. EKHLA raises the bar in public education by providing strong academic and behavioral standards, as well as teaching impactful core values. EKHLA’s core values are Support, Passion, Integrity & Honesty, Respect & Acceptance, Curiosity, Creativity, and Learning and “Repairing the World”. They are implemented daily in and out of the classroom, to help form all aspects of a well-rounded learner. With a total enrollment of under 550, students in grades Kindergarten through 8th grade, receive extraordinary support from staff, with 30 % of staff having post graduate degrees. Geography Bee, Spelling Bee, and Israeli Culture class, all provide a fun purposeful experience for our thriving student body.
EKHLA also has a robust Athletics Program for grades 4th-8th, qualifying for regionals and or district finals in Volleyball, Basket Ball, and Soccer in the last 7 years. EKHLA’s after school Enrichment Program includes Transitional Breathing Awareness, Yoga, Crochet, Photography, Canvas Club, Tennis, Spanish, Making Makers, Storybook Makers, Table Tennis, Futsal Soccer, Knitting, and Chess. In our last pre-pandemic year, EKHLA had an overall TEA Accountability rating of an A/94. This state accountability rating is based on the three domains of: student achievement, school progress, and closing the gaps. Our beautiful campus is centrally located at 11327 Dreamland Drive, on the corner of Lockhill Selma. EKHLA runs school tours from October to May on Friday mornings, and is currently accepting applications for the 2021-2022 school year.
Please visit our website for more information. www.ekhla.org
federal recovery money to help restore allocations cut or deferred during the outbreak, including $16 million in scheduled street maintenance. Infrastructure was perhaps the foremost item for 9,000plus participants of a city survey conducted before the latest budget cycle. Increasing fire and police protection, also, is a priority with respondents in council districts 8, 9, and 10. Those in District 1 prioritized infrastructure alongside senior and public-health services. Perry said he’s happy about the restoration of street-maintenance program money. “I am hopeful that we can use federal funds to replenish the funds we deferred in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic,” he added. Perry also backs efforts to increase community policing and add officers in the next fiscal year, which begins Oct. 1. The trial budget projects acrossthe-board pay hikes equal to 3% of wages for civilian employees, and uniformed Fire Department personnel. It doesn’t include whatever may come from contract negotiations between the city and the San Antonio Police Officers Association, the collective-bargaining unit for rankand-file personnel. Courage expressed concern about the proposed pay raise. “It’s not a very big amount considering we didn’t give (any raises) last year,” he said.
Courage and Perry also called for further easing the tax burden for homeowners, especially low-income residents and working families. Perry wondered why some expenses, such as a new temporary hotel shelter for homeless people and job-training initiatives are key, but the city is “hesitant” to consider property-tax relief. He added, “All these programs are great, but when we could apply something across a broad base of San Antonians, we have a hesitancy.” Fellow council members agreed tax relief is important, but added they’d rather see homestead exemptions to help a higher number of homeowners without it adversely impacting the city’s main revenue stream or spending for post-pandemic services. The city currently offers a .01% homestead exemption, a maximum $65,000 discount for homeowners age 65 and over, and $12,500 tax exemption with a freeze for disabled
A San Antonio Public Works Department mill and overlay crew lay down hot asphalt on Old Tree Street near McAllister Park in July. The Fiscal Year 2022 draft budget will restore road-maintenance funds cut or deferred during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Courtesy photo/San Antonio Public Works Facebook
AUG. 10 - SEPT. 7, 2021
LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS
persons. About 45% of San Antonio’s homesteads filed with the city already get the perk. In this current fiscal year, the city will forego $65.8 million in propertytax revenue from those advantages and freeze. Chief Financial Officer Ben Gorzell said a full 1% homestead exemption would yield virtually no tax savings for eligible homeowners. A 5% exemption would produce no tax savings for any home valued at $100,000 or less. A 5% exemption would result in a tax savings between $28 and $139 for any eligible home valued at $200,000 or up. Newly elected District 1 Councilman Mario Bravo said the city should provide significant tax relief to its most vulnerable residents. “That’s why I propose we proactively go into low-income zones and make sure whomever qualifies for a homestead exemption has one, or anyone who’s 65 and over can protest their appraisal, bring their value down so that when
CITY
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their property tax gets frozen, it’ll be a lower rate,” he added. District 8’s Manny Peláez said tax-relief expansion must be more “meaningful” than a homestead exemption approved in 2019. It applies only to a homeowner’s main residence. “The last time we did this, we were lambasted for months for bringing home a $4.30 savings per month. It was an insult to a lot of people because it wasn’t meaningful or impactful,” he said. Perry pledged to keep tax relief a top priority. “The fight for lower property taxes is not over,” he added. Public input will be sought in August and September before the council adopts a final budget the week of Sept. 14. eortiz@localcommunitynews. com Find this story and more at www.localcommunitynews.com.
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Courageous Faith Several years ago, during a trip to the northern Rockies, my wife, Vicki and I stopped at various historical markers to soak in the stories of early American pioneers – wondering what it felt like for them to cross this great expanse not by car or plane but by walking, riding horseback, or in a covered wagon. Knowing they had left behind everything familiar. Their bold pursuit was stirred by a dream which steadied them, daily renewing them to keep going forward. They trusted the rewards outweighed the risks. Without guarantees of safety they endured the sun scorched summers and bitter cold winters to see if their character was strong enough to make it to the journey’s end.
Long before those pioneers, the Bible was written by people on a faith journey. Their stories of faith inspire us today as we make our own journeys in an uncertain world. If we walk with God and do God’s work in the world – we are rewarded with the outcome of a life well lived. If those earlier pioneers were willing to risk so much on places they’d never seen, shouldn’t we be willing to risk everything for the certainty that God steadies those who believe in Him, and rewards those who diligently serve Him. (Hebrews 11:6) Les Hollon, PhD Senior Pastor
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LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS
EDUCATION
AUG. 10 - SEPT. 7, 2021
COMPENSATION continues from pg. 01
landscape. The districts authorizing increased compensation are North East, Northside and San Antonio. Alamo Heights Independent School District will approve its 2021-2022 compensation package and full budget in August. In June, the NEISD board approved nearly $10 million in raises for teachers and staff. Superintendent Sean Maika said trustees and administrators would continue to support down-the-road pay increases, despite shrinking enrollment and an uncertain future. “We always have a goal in mind to give the very best that we can today,
but looking in the future,” Maika said. NEISD will increase the starting salary for teachers and librarians with zero years of experience to $54,250. Teachers, librarians, nurses, and counselors will receive a minimum 2% pay hike based on the new 2021-2022 midpoint salary. On the same basis, campus administrators and central-office staff will get a 1.5% jump. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Congress approved billions in Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief funds for public schools nationwide, including $19 billion-plus for Texas. NEISD officials said if and when ESSER allocations are disbursed statewide, a one-time retention supplement for employees could be
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THIS HAS TO BE A COLLECTIVE EFFORT...” PEDRO MARTINEZ, SAISD SUPERINTENDENT proposed during the year. “Would I love to recommend bigger raises? Absolutely, but I am a taxpayer, too. I have to always go to bed at night and close my eyes with both in mind,” Maika said. SAISD trustees June 22 approved a $487.5 million budget, including a 2% scale adjustment for teachers, nurses and librarians. In addition, a 2% pay hike is coming for all other full-time, permanent employees, and a onetime $500 longevity stipend will be distributed in January. SAISD’s new budget also contains a $10,000 additional time stipend for approved educators. Trustees approved a separate plan to use $78.3 million in ESSER funding to hire more instructors for campuses with higher levels of pandemic-recovery needs. The same relief money will also address expansion of special-education resources, extracurricular programs, student access to social workers and emotional health care, and to extend or add days to the calendar year. Several residents, educators and students at the June 22 meeting criticized the district, saying there was hardly public engagement about using ESSER. Superintendent Pedro Martinez promised to regularly brief the board on how individual
institutions use the recovery money, adding campus leaders were key in planning its use. “This has to be a collective effort across the entire community,” he told trustees. “It isn’t me making a decision; it isn’t yourself making individual decisions. It really is driven by the schools.” There’s no plan to change SAISD’s property-tax rate of $1.50 per $100 valuation. NISD trustees in June approved a $26.7 million compensation package, featuring a 3% midpoint raise for all employees. The raise includes a $1,900 hike for teachers, librarians, counselors and nurses. Plus, a 3.5% increase for auxiliary positions. “These are typical as to what’s been part of (NISD) compensation plans,” said Rene Barajas, deputy superintendent for business and finance. “We’ve been fortunate to bring forward a compensation plan with a raise, (pay) adjustments and so on.” NISD also intends to spend nearly $29 million to support the opening this August of Straus Middle and Tomlinson Elementary schools, startup costs for Sotomayor High School debuting next fall, and expanding prekindergarten programs. eortiz@localcommunitynews.com Find this story and more at www. localcommunitynews.com.
AUG. 10 - SEPT. 7, 2021
LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS
LOWDOWN continues from pg. 13
longtime downtown site, with plans to open in early September. For more, visit https://www.facebook. com/sohowineandmartinibar or call 210-444-1000. Project Pollo, a vegan chicken/fast-food chain based in North Central San Antonio, recently opened restaurants citywide, with nine more scheduled in Texas by year’s end. The company’s long-range plan is to debut 100 nationwide locations by 2024. For more, visit https://www.projectpollo.com.
IN OTHER NEWS:
OFFICIALS RECENTLY DOCUMENTED FOUR SPECIES OF WILDLIFE CROSSING THE ROBERT L.B. TOBIN LAND BRIDGE at Hardberger Park, just months after completion. San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department said encouraging safe animal navigation between the facility’s two halves was one of the reasons for constructing the bridge spanning Wurzbach Parkway.
THE TOBIN HILL COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION IS DISCUSSING PUBLICSAFETY ISSUES WITH POLICE and local business owners. The dialogue includes food-truck operations, with some drawing criticism for operating late at night after many North St. Mary’s Street and Main Avenue bars and clubs have closed. Neighbors also expressed concerns after a suspected drunk driver crashed into Singh’s Vietnamese restaurant and a biker was fatally shot near Interstate 35.
EISENHOWER PARK IS HOSTING THE LATEST INSTALLMENT OF SAN ANTONIO’S “BLOOM” SCULPTURE SERIES, featuring three oversized artworks by local artist Leticia
LOWDOWN
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Huerta. The pieces resemble a red Cedar Sage, yellow Four-Nerve Daisy and green Antelope Horn Milkweed. These metal flowers are created from elements resembling bicycle parts, and symbolize the importance of recycling and appreciation for nature. Other “Bloom” installations can be found at McAllister Park and the River Walk.
SAN ANTONIO AND SAMMINISTRIES ARE PARTNERING TO OPERATE A LOW-BARRIER SHELTER for those experiencing chronic homelessness. The facility is in a leased hotel on the eastern edge of downtown, with SAMMinistries providing 24/7 onsite operations and support to help transition individuals into permanent housing. District 10 Councilman Clayton Perry voted against the expense, saying the municipality should find ways with current funding to help transients rather than spend limited federal monies. According to Perry, the contract was never reviewed nor discussed by any City Council committee before a full council vote.
THE SAN ANTONIO ZOO RECENTLY FINISHED INSTALLING GRAPHICS AND SIGNAGE AT ITS ANIMAL-THEMED multilevel parking garage. The structure features three reticulated giraffes, four Monarch butterflies, a Sumatran tiger, and evening lighting.
SAN ANTONIO MUSEUM OF ART’S LUCÍA ABRAMOVICH SÁNCHEZ AND MCNAY ART MUSEUM’S ISABEL SERVANTEZ WERE AMONG 38 ARTISTS, CULTURAL WORKERS, AND ARTS LOWDOWN continues on pg. 27 LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM
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LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS
CELEBRATION
AUG. 10 - SEPT. 7, 2021
LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS
Alamo Heights begins plans for big 100th APRIL 6 - MAY 4, 2021
which is make sure you’re seen, wrote a letter calling for the heard and taken care of.” establishment of a Methodist presence Precinct 4 County to serve an area where settlers by EDMOND ORTIZ Commissioner Tommy Calvert began to revolt against the Mexican complimented the parish’s government. HEIGHTS — The city’s centennial welcoming ofofficially diversity. happens in OnlyALAMO months later, Travis died June 2022, but folks are already gearing up for a legacy nearlythat weeklong “It’s an incredible during the siege of the Alamo. celebration to be held the following fall. we all share. The people of Travis Methodist missionaries spent Local National Out festivities will Church double as a kickoff to various break down the walls activities the next decade Night developing such a next yearPark ofsince prejudice andHeights’ embracefounding. all our presence. John Wesley100 years taking placeOne Oct.clergyman, 4-9 to commemorate Alamo brotherstoand he added. DeVilbiss, wasplan assigned in 1846 to Reyna, assistant “It’s time to a party,” Jennifer thesisters,” city manager, told the City Treviño’s predecessor on the organize a church. council, state Rep. Diego Bernal, Methodists and Presbyterians had preliminary talks with company Council on June 14. D-San Antonio, offered a state created what is now Travis Park President and CEO Janet Holliday last The council approved hiring local announcement lauding the Church, one of the city’s first spring about the fete. marketing firm The CE Group to help chapel’s mission. Protestant congregations. “(The CE Group commemorate the milestone. “The church doesn’thas) just already come up Over the decades, its ministries with aalot of goodrelationship ideas, initially. We’re Mayorhelped Bobbya Rosenthal said the burg develop personal have range of vulnerable with God, it helps people to populations including homeless and develop a working relationship hungry people, immigrants, and with God,” he added. LGBTQ community members. Travis Park Church is also “We’ve also been working hard for using its anniversary to promote a LGBTQ inclusion and equality both in capital campaign, raising money the church and beyond,” Vogt added. Alamo Heights Coin of Sanvarious Antonio’s leading to expand programs, and Elected leaders representing the Shop is one dealers in bullion, coins, and collectibles. to support repairs to the youth downtown area took part in the news building, where a roof collapsed conference to read city-, county- and Alamo Heights after a heavy rainfall in 2019. state-approved proclamations formally Coin Shop has served the San Antonio For more, visit https://community since 1977, recognizing the milestone. earning a reputation as one of raisinghope.travispark.org. District 1 Councilman Roberto the best operations in the area through our commitment to eortiz@localcommunitynews. Treviño delivered the municipal customer satisfaction and fairness. com declaration, saying the church and its ministries do “one of the most Find this story and more at important things anyone can do, www.localcommunitynews.com.
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going to do something special for our anniversary,” Rosenthal said. Long before the town was incorporated, non-natives flocked to the area in the 1800s, attracted by the San Antonio River headwaters. One of those, Kentuckian Charles Anderson, established a large horse ranch on the Olmos Bluffs. His mansion later became the Argyle Hotel, now the Argyle Club – the town's oldest surviving structure. In the 1890s, a family who purchased the Anderson ranchland sold it to a Denver developer. Also, around then, the Order of the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word bought some of George Brackenridge’s properties. The nuns founded the University of the Incarnate Word. Meanwhile, other parcels of the Brackenridge tract became a public park and zoo in San Antonio. Early in the 1900s, soon-to-be Alamo Heights was a San Antonio suburb. Partially to stave off San Antonio’s annexation efforts, community leaders banded together and approved incorporation as a municipality on June 20, 1922.
Alamo Heights’ population has since grown to more than 8,600. Reyna said preparing a successful centennial party requires expertise. The CE Group has 30-plus years experience in event and production management, officials said. The company participated in organizing the 2021 NCAA Women’s Basketball Division I postseason tournament, entirely held in the San Antonio area. Alamo Heights’ celebration planning will unfold in two stages, Reyna said. Phase I will consist of The CE Group providing strategic guidance and consultation to the city and its staff, envisioning an event schedule, and considering whether a community-led committee will be created. The second phase will involve event and production logistics, public relations and marketing, and social-media marketing. Alamo Heights’ current fiscal-year budget has $6,500 designated to cover Phase I planning costs. eortiz@localcommunitynews.com Find this story at www. localcommunitynews.com.
A 1935 linen postcard of the then-new Olmos Dam is part of Alamo Heights’ digital timeline, viewable at https://tinyurl.com/jhe8ek58. The city is planning activities ahead of its centennial celebration, set for October 2022. Courtesy image/Jill Souter & Bexar County BiblioTech
AUG. 10 - SEPT. 7, 2021
LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS
LOWDOWN continues from pg. 25
ADMINISTRATORS participating in the National Association of Latino Arts and Cultures’ 21st Leadership Institute. The weeklong professionaldevelopment program was held virtually in July. Abramovich is SAMA’s associate curator of Latin American art. Servantez was a curatorial intern at McNay.
INCOMING ALAMO HEIGHTS HIGH SCHOOL SOPHOMORE JULIA VOLLMER LED THE GIRLS’ GOLF TEAM TO A NINTH-PLACE FINISH, out of 30 squads, at the National High School Invitational held for state champions in June in Pinehurst, North Carolina. Vollmer shot 74-71-73, or 2 over par, for the three-day event of some 220 golfers. Other Mules included Jordan Salisbury, Jacklyn Gonzalez, Ella Williams, Charlotte Gnam and Kat Salisbury.
THE DOSEUM CHILDREN’S MUSEUM RECENTLY HOSTED A CITIZEN NATURALIZATION CEREMONY WITH 17 YOUNGSTERS. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services marked Independence Day by welcoming more than 9,400 new citizens in 170 naturalization ceremonies from June 30 to July 7.
NORTHSIDE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT TRUSTEES RECENTLY APPOINTED CASSAUNDRA FERNANDEZ ACADEMIC DEAN AT RAWLINSON MIDDLE SCHOOL. She previously served the same role at Connally Middle School.
THE UNIVERSITY OF THE INCARNATE WORD ANNOUNCED APPOINTMENTS TO three leadership positions. Dr. Stephen Goffar, new dean of UIW’s
LOWDOWN
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School of Physical Therapy, joined UIW in July 2014 as associate dean for academic affairs after retiring from the Army. John Bury, new vice president for strategy and enrollment, was most recently chief financial officer and corporate treasurer at the University of Tulsa. Rick Kimbrough, new vice president for external affairs, lastly was vice president for university advancement at Pacific University.
REAGAN HIGH SCHOOL 2021 GRADUATE JASMINE MONTGOMERY WAS NAMED GATORADE TEXAS GIRLS TRACK & FIELD Player of the Year. Montgomery broke state records with the Rattlers. She was a finalist for the Gatorade National Girls Track & Field Player of the Year Award in July and will attend the University of Oregon this fall on an athletic scholarship.
THE FIRST TEE INVITATIONAL, A DEBUT FIESTA EVENT AT CANYON SPRINGS GOLF CLUB, DREW 140 PLAYERS AND RAISED more than $40,000 for The First Tee, which uses golf to teach youngsters from all backgrounds about skills needed to be successful in life. The First Tee plans to hold several tournaments at three locations as part of Fiesta 2022.
THE TOBIN CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS ANNOUNCED RENEE GARVENS as its new vice president of development. Most recently with the Boys & Girls Clubs of San Antonio, Garvens has years of experience in fundraising, event management, arts administration, marketing, and public relations with numerous local organizations, officials said. Find Local Lowdown at www. localcommunitynews.com. LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM
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LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS
BUSINESS
AUG. 10 - SEPT. 7, 2021
New Castle Hills business group taking shape by EDMOND ORTIZ
CASTLE HILLS — Two City Council aldermen are spearheading the formation of a pro-business group to promote the town’s merchants and increase their connections.
Jack Joyce, Kurt May and at least six local proprietors are developing The Castle Hills Business Association, with support from some graduate-student interns. Similar affiliations have existed in past years, such as one aligning with business owners from neighboring Shavano Park.
This iteration began last fall when May and Joyce started working with Castle Hills merchants to create the new association. The idea, according to Joyce,
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Castle Hills Alderman Joe Izbrand (center) greets owners and employees of Tu Asador, a recently opened Mexican steakhouse at 8055 West Ave., Suite 125. Local officials are developing a new Castle Hills Business Association. Courtesy photo/Joe Izbrand Facebook
is to make it self-sustaining. “We’ve got a nice group of folks helping us with leadership,” Joyce said. Interns are compiling an updated, comprehensive list of the burg’s 450 estimated commercial outlets. Joyce and May said the group shouldn’t be confused with a fullfledged chamber of commerce. However, it will offer similar functions, such as networking and educational opportunities so merchants can exchange ideas, and collaborate with each other and the city. An introductory event is 5:30-7 p.m. Aug. 19 at City Hall, 209 Lemonwood Drive. Attending business owners may meet with municipal officials, and share how they survived the COVID-19 pandemic,
when numerous ventures and public gatherings closed or operated in a limited capacity for months. “We’re hoping that’ll serve as a sort of conduit for folks to come in and become interested (in the association),” Joyce said. The fledgling alliance has benefited from the involvement of community members such as real estate agent Kristin Bengoechea, architect Steven Burch, former Alderman John Squire, and Scott Gray, a veteran executive in the defense and commercial industries. Joyce said members such as Burch provide additional insight thanks to their experiences with organizations including the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
AUG. 10 - SEPT. 7, 2021
LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS
BUSINESS
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JACK JOYCE, CASTLE HILLS ALDERMAN Castle Hills leaders have used traditional and social media to promote newly opened ventures including Southern Liquor & Wine, and Tu Asador restaurant, plus incoming enterprises such as SoHo Wine & Martini Bar, and Dutch Bros. Coffee. The association is also attempting to offer a posting of local businesses on the city’s website where merchants, residents and visitors can find enterprises and services.
“It pushes every single business forward whether they’re residents of Castle Hills or outside (city limits),” May said. For more, visit https:// www.facebook.com/ Castle-Hills-BusinessAssociation-103572578565093. eortiz@localcommunitynews. com Find this story and more at www.localcommunitynews.com. LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM
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LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS
AVIATION
AUG. 10 - SEPT. 7, 2021
Noise from airport still a concern by EDMOND ORTIZ
SAN ANTONIO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT improvements could be on City Council’s radar when a final draft of strategic development plans is presented late this year.
However, some municipal leaders and neighbors near the airport worry expansion will create more noise problems. Meanwhile, airport officials are fast-tracking a project to enhance the baggagehandling system, renovate part of Terminal A, and upgrade a building to house 10 law enforcement K-9 units. “It is imperative that the airport prepares for future growth and also
involves the community in the process,” said Director of Airports Jesus Saenz Jr. It’s been four years since Mayor Ron Nirenberg launched an Airport Strategic Development Committee to help
determine the facility’s long-term needs. While air traffic is increasing, after months of restrictions sparked by the COVID-19 pandemic, city officials said they’re now in the last stages of completing technical elements of a strategic plan draft. The city’s Aviation Department held public meetings earlier in 2021 to alert community members of expectations concerning the facility’s growth for the next 20 years. Before the outbreak, more than 10 million passengers flew through the airport yearly. As the virus raged, the number dropped by half, but airport
officials estimate a rebound to 20 million annually by 2040. Back in March, Saenz discussed with the city the results of a strategic development study. It recommended doubling the current overall size of the airport’s terminal in order to meet projected air-traffic demands through 2040. The document highlights problems in the terminal area, including a lack of a secure connection between the two concourses, inadequate concession space, and an undersized facility. Saenz said increasing the terminal’s dimensions would boost
Jesus Saenz Jr., San Antonio Airport System’s director of airports (left), joins Breeze Airways chief financial officer Trent Porter July 15 to hail the airline’s launch at San Antonio International Airport. Aviation officials aim to unveil a strategic development plan later this year. Courtesy photo/San Antonio
AUG. 10 - SEPT. 7, 2021
LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS
the amount of gates, and enlarge concourses. “Based on our gate availability, we’ve got to get some more gates (as) quickly as possible,” Saenz noted. Airport officials also have stated the long-range plan will cover recommended upgrades to its three runways. In addition, airport advisory
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WE'VE GOT TO GET SOME MORE GATES.” JESUS SAENZ JR., DIRECTOR OF AIRPORTS
from the council to proceed with renovations to Terminal A involving a new gate, boarding space and passenger boarding bridge. This includes converting a former car-rental area to accommodate more canine units. Still, elected leaders who represent neighborhoods around the airport expressed concerns about its growth, especially regarding noise. Meantime, airport administrators say the volume from the facility and the skies has been reduced. “I think the more we can reassure a lot of businesspeople around the airport, and address the sound problem around the airport, the more reassured people can be this is going to be the kind of plan they’ll continue
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to support,” District 9 Councilman John Courage said. However, Pat Garrison, a veteran pilot and Oak Park/Northwood neighborhood resident who has explored airport noise and growth issues, said airport officials aren’t fully addressing volume worries. Garrison recommended a change in flight paths above Oak Park/Northwood homes to already renovated structures capable of withstanding flyovers. Right now, he added, many planes soar over residences unequipped to handle roaring engines. “The airport needs to be a better neighbor, and we, too, can be a good neighbor,” he said. eortiz@localcommunitynews.com Find this story at www. localcommunitynews.com.
LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM
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