LOCAL - North San Antonio - June 2021 by San Antonio Local Community News

LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM VOL. 9, ISSUE 12 | JUNE 8 - JULY 13, 2021

LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS LOOP 1604 EXPANSION HAPPENING PG. 05

Enjoy the goods at North Side farmers' markets

CASTLE HILLS • HILL COUNTRY VILLAGE • HOLLYWOOD PARK • SHAVANO PARK • NORTH SA

SUSAN YERKES | PG. 06

REAL ESTATE | PGS. 13-15

HELPING MAN’S BEST FRIEND

HOMEBUYING, MARKET TRENDS

Fiesta returns, but smaller in scale

Fiesta is back! Check out a listing of major events on pg. 18. Courtesy photo/Betsy Newman Photography

UPGRADES WILL BE MADE FROM BANDERA ROAD TO I-35 NORTH by EDMOND ORTIZ

THIS SUMMER HERALDS the arrival of major work on part of Loop 1604, which will be widened and improved across ROADWORK continues on pg. 10

the far North Side during most of the decade.

The Texas Department of Transportation posted an online update in May about work crews starting project preparation on the Northwest Side. Elected leaders acknowledged the work will cause headaches for motorists, but ultimately traffic congestion should be reduced.

“My office is working with TxDOT to ensure neighbors have the most up-to-date information about the project, so they know what’s coming and what to expect,” said District 8 Councilman Manny Peláez. “We are here if you have any questions or comments along the way.” Residents can call 210-2070943 or email council.district8@ sanantonio.gov.

by EDMOND ORTIZ

AFTER THE COVID-19 pandemic caused the cancellation of Fiesta 2020, San Antonio’s biggest party is returning with safety measures and fewer events.

The Fiesta San Antonio Commission has released the final Fiesta 2021 calendar, with officially sanctioned PARTY continues on pg. 18

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4 STAFF

LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS JUNE 8 - JULY 13, 2021

PUBLISHER Jaselle Luna

Multimedia Account Representative

Michael Valdelamar Controller

EDITORIAL

Gracie Cortinez READER SERVICE

Editor

Thomas Edwards

Mailing Address

News Staff

Edmond Ortiz Copy Editor

Bob Stewart Contributing Writers

Olivier J. Bourgoin, Justin Kraiza, Travis E. Poling, and Susan Yerkes ART Designer

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THREE CONVENIENT CAMPUSES SERVING SAN ANTONIO I

NORTH CENTRAL: 12222 Huebner Rd STONE OAK : 20615 Huebner Rd. DOMINION : 6185 Camp Bullis Rd.

TA L K LO CA L

Dodging a bullet on Prop. B SAN ANTONIO may have the best working conditions for its dodged a bullet with members could have had disastrous the narrow defeat of consequences for the city. Proposition B during May The issue is not just about the small 1 elections. Passage could number of disciplinary cases that are CENTRAL:12222 Huebner Rd. 78230 overturned 20615 Rd. 78258 I STONE OAK:but, haveNORTH led to an exodus from in aHuebner larger context, the police force. ensuring San Antonio can hire and However, the San Antonio Police retain a professional police force. Officers Association should not The contract ensures San Antonio’s see its 51% share of the ballots as rank-and-file officers have decent approval regarding how some police health care, a good retirement, disciplinary cases are handled. incentives for night work and Pushed to a referendum by education, and more. Fix SAPD, and growing out of a If Proposition B had passed, officers national mood of disenchantment stripped of the ability to seek better thanks to a handful of policeworking conditions could have left in brutality episodes, the measure droves, while applicants for academy NOW ENROLLING CHILDREN WEEKS YEARS drying OF AGE.up. Not would have repealed SAPOA’s classes6may have- 5started Located in North Central San Antonio. collective-bargaining rights. good in a city that continues to swell While it is true some officers with new residents. O C O L the disciplinary process needs P 9 R O TWhile fired over the years by San ID - 1 C OV Y T IS Antonio Police Department chiefs don’t deny officers the SAFErefinement, FIRST returned to the force thanks to right to seek better working conditions contractual protections, an all-out and benefits that other employee repeal of SAPOA’s ability to secure groups take for granted.

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ON THE COVER – The Texas Department of Transportation has updated its plans to create a ‘diverging diamond’ at Loop 1604 and Blanco Road. The new intersection will have traffic on Blanco crossing in two directions on either side of the overpass. See story on page 01. Courtesy image/TXDOT Contact 210.694.0740 To Add Your Name To The Interest List

JUNE 8 - JULY 13, 2021

MAY

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

LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS

City Councils/ School Districts Hollywood Park: 6 p.m. June 15, July 20; 2 Mecca Drive

Hill Country Village: 5 p.m. June 17; 116 Aspen Lane

Shavano Park: 6:30 p.m. June 28; 900 Saddletree Court Castle Hills: 6:30 p.m. July 13; 209 Lemonwood Drive Northside ISD: 6 p.m. June 22, July 13; 7001 Culebra Road North East ISD: 5:30 p.m. July 12; 8961 Tesoro Drive

JULY 13

SEWING GROUP A sewing club meets from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM

HAPPENING

p.m. at Encino Park Community Center, 1923 Encino Rio St. Bring a power strip or extension cord. For updates, contact Sylvia Jolet at sjolet@ earthlink.net or call 210-497-3383.

to observe sessions, possibly over videoconferencing, due to COVID-19. For registration or updates, email president@bexarmg.org or visit https://bexarmg.org.

JUNE 10 & JULY 8

JUNE 10

The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Office, 3355 Cherry Ridge Drive, Suite 208, holds a monthly board meeting 1-3 p.m. for members. Contact Lynn Cox a day ahead

Learn more about the Texas’ growing wine scene and help to support San Antonio-area families affected

BEXAR COUNTY MASTER GARDENERS

UNCORK TO SUPPORT

HAPPENING continues on pg. 07

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

LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS JUNE 8 - JULY 13, 2021

Guide dogs change lives by SUSAN YERKES

GUIDE DOGS OF TEXAS is one of the area’s best-kept secrets. Most folks have never heard of the nonprofit. But it has quietly improved the lives

of the sight impaired across Texas for nearly 30 years. And the dream of changing many more keeps it going. Today it’s the only school of its kind in the state accredited by the International Guide Dog Federation. And, as the demand for these amazing canines increases, it is ramping up operations, too, in spite of limited funds. “The population of Texas keeps growing, and the need grows with it,” CEO Sandy Merrill said. “We’re also seeing the impact of diabetic retinopathy increasing, causing blindness. And sadly, a lot of the

people being diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes early in their lives are now starting to lose sight. Our population is also aging, and one in three people over 65 experience some kind of eye disease.” The organization charges $1 to clients for its services, from assessment to providing individually suited, rigorously

Joyful, Academically Excellent Schools in Your Community Escuelas alegres y académicamente excelentes en su comunidad

trained guide dogs and continuous support. For a blind person, a guide dog can make a world of difference. Faithful companions and skilled guides, the canines perform an amazing range of tasks and adjust to each owner. GDTX has 30 active client-dog teams working, and more dogs in training than ever before. Still, there’s a two-year waiting list. It can be shorter if an applicant is deemed a perfect match for a dog. Guide dogs are a very special breed – so special, in fact, that Merrill and her staff have developed their own in-house breeding program with Labrador retrievers. Training starts almost at birth. At eight weeks, volunteers take the pups for 18 months to two years. Genetic testing for problems and regular progress assessments keep the process on track. It’s been so successful about 75% graduate as guide dogs. Those that don’t make the cut often go to other kinds of service, such as ambassador dogs or rescue dogs, or work in the organization’s innovative Buddy Dogs Youth Program for young people 17 and under with impaired or failing vision. Merrill never imagined she would follow this path. “When I started 20 years ago, we were operating out of a rented house living with the dogs we were

training, and clients would come and stay with us,” she said. Today the headquarters has kennels, a training pavilion and offices in the Shearer Hills area. Clients don’t have to travel – GDTX sends certified instructors to them, and they spend weeks training the new human-dog teams to work together in their own environments, a practice that sets the organization apart. It also has its own certification program, a three- to four-year apprenticeship. Merrill is hoping to expand that program with new applicants. “It is a real career, and it’s the best job in the world, and one of the best-kept secrets. You get to work with these incredible creatures, and then you go out and you change someone’s life,” she said. To help more people with vision issues, GDTX needs additional support, from volunteers and sustaining members to corporate sponsorships, such as the $8,000 in heating, ventilation and airconditioning improvements Shafer Services Plus recently donated. The owner volunteered with his parents at GDTX when he was young, and never forgot the work these dedicated people and dogs do without fanfare. Their mission deserves support. To help, visit guidedogsoftexas.org. 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.

JUNE 8 - JULY 13, 2021

LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS

HAPPENING continues from pg. 05

by cancer by participating in the inaugural Uncork to Support, a virtual wine-tasting experience 7-9 p.m. Shelly Wilfong, wine educator, writer, and host of the podcast, “This is Texas Wine,” will discuss pairing options. An online auction is included. For more, visit www.UncorktoSupportTXOF.com or call 972-490-2909.

JUNE 16

EYE HEALTH San Antonio Chapter of Hadassah holds a Zoom discussion about eye health at 7:30 p.m., featuring local optometrist and Hadassah member Dr. Erin Nevelow. Also, viewers are invited to an interactive part of the

HAPPENING

Zoom program, where they have an opportunity to receive a free package of lens-cleaner sheets and a chance to win a Max & Louie’s New York Diner gift card. Email Marion Bernstein at hlb@texas.net by June 13.

Association offices, 19210 Huebner Road, Suite 100. However, due to COVID-19, sessions may take place over Zoom. For updates, visit http:// www.stoneoakpoa.com or call 210-8588508.

JUNE 16

JUNE 17

The North San Antonio Retired Teachers Association holds a 10 a.m. to noon session at San Pedro Presbyterian Church, 14900 San Pedro Ave. Dues are $50. For updates, visit https://localunits.org/NSARTA/.

First Tee Invitational, an official Fiesta golf event, will be held at 8 a.m. at Canyon Springs Golf Club, 24405 Wilderness Oak St. Proceeds benefit First Tee Greater San Antonio. For registration and more, visit www. firstteesanantonio.org/fiesta.

RETIRED TEACHERS MEETING

JUNE 16

FORE! FIESTA

Organization’s annual official Fiesta event kicks off with a 5K fun run and a parade, beginning at 8 a.m. at the City Hall Commons, 209 Lemonwood Drive. A family- and pet-friendly festival follows from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the same site. Admission is free. Wearing masks and physical distancing are required. Proceeds benefit the San Antonio Food Bank. For more, visit http:// castlehillscommunityorganization.org/ fiesta-castle-hills or call 210-912-3090 or email fiestacastlehills.texas@gmail.com.

JUNE 24

IT’S A ‘C’ THING

STONE OAK POA BOARD MEETING

JUNE 19

This cancer support group for survivors ages 20-40 and their loved ones meets

Conferences normally are held at 3:30 p.m. in the Property Owners

The Castle Hills Community

HAPPENING continues on pg. 20

FIESTA CASTLE HILLS

LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM

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LOWDOWN

LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS JUNE 8 - JULY 13, 2021

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

Open and Opening Soon BURGER BOY, 151 W. Bitters Road, the fourth restaurant in this San Antonio chain, offers the eatery’s popular burgers and other fare. The site’s design, on the edge of Hill Country Village, mimics existing locations following renovations to a 2,300-square-foot former El Pollo Loco. The original, on North St. Mary’s Street, is said to have the oldest rotating sign in Texas. Drive-thru only for now, with the dining room opening soon. Hours are 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Wednesday, 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Thursday, and 10:30 a.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday. For more, visit burgerboysa.com. (See story on page 20)

MY GYM NORTH SAN ANTONIO, 15614 Huebner Road, Suite 103, uses fun activities to help children

6 weeks old to age 10 shape skills and build confidence. My Gym also offers gymnastics, and hosts birthday parties, Parents’ Nights Out and other activities. For more, call 210580-4636 or visit www.mygym.com/ northsanantonio.

TOMMY’S RESTAURANT, Blanco Road and Wurzbach Parkway, plans a summer opening in a retail center at this location near Hardberger Park. While it is the smallest of the local taqueria chain’s locations at 2,000 square feet, it will offer Big Red, barbacoa and more items popular at the four other storefronts. Hours are 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday. For more, visit www.mytommys.com. RUSTY TACOS, Bulverde Road and Loop

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1604, is opening this first location soon in the Bulverde Marketplace. The restaurant will feature more than 20 street-style tacos, a full bar and a patio. Rusty Tacos has 32 locations in 10 states. Lone Star Restaurant Group plans to open additional Rusty Taco sites in San Antonio in 2022 and 2023. For more, visit Rusty Taco San Antonio on Facebook and Instagram (@rustytaco_sa).

Hill Street. Work is scheduled to last a year.

CASTLE HILLS POLICE CPL. ROMEO MUNOZ — WHO FACED A DIFFICULT RECOVERY after being injured during a traffic incident involving a suspected intoxicated driver — used Police Appreciation Week in May to help warn the public about the dangers of drunk driving. Talking to local media, Munoz recounted a June 2019 investigation of a car crash on Loop 410 near Honeysuckle Lane when an errant motorist veered in his direction, forcing him and a fellow officer to jump off the overpass to avoid getting hit. The collision killed one person and injured four others, including Munoz and his colleague. Munoz is nearly back full time on the police force following months of rehabilitation and recovery.

NORTH EAST INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT IS RENAMING CHURCHILL HIGH SCHOOL’S NEW ACADEMIC BUILDING after Joe Reasons, who retired following 50 years as a teacher and administrator. He spent 34 years in NEISD, including time as Churchill’s principal.

IN OTHER NEWS

A RECORDING OF A MOTHER’S HEARTBEAT WAS LOADED INTO THREE BUILD-A-BEARS by nurses for the

included installation of concrete footing for a retaining wall within the drainage area near Blanco Road. Other project activities have included demolition of the sidewalk corner and widening of West Bitters Road for a left-turn lane onto Savannah Pass.

three children of Sandra Obregon, 41, who died from COVID-19 complications at Methodist HospitalStone Oak. Obregon’s heartbeat was captured by an EKG. According to a news release, the nurses formed a strong bond with the family during Obregon’s 45 days in the hospital. In addition, after a request for donations went to the entire

RECENT WORK IN SAN ANTONIO’S BOND-FUNDED BITTERS ROAD PROJECT

SAN ANTONIO BEGAN A BOND-FUNDED PROJECT TO IMPROVE LOW-WATER CROSSINGS ON VANCE JACKSON ROAD at Orsinger Lane and south of Tree

602 N.W. Loop 410, Suite 13019 LOWDOWN continues on pg.

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NEW FAMILY MEDICINE DOCTOR, NEW LOCATION! San Antonio Medical Associates is proud to announce the addition of Patrick Pierre, MD. Dr. Pierre is board certified in Family Medicine. Dr. Pierre will see patients at our new, second location, currently under construction in the Bulverde/Spring Branch area. Until the office is ready in early 2022, Dr. Pierre will see patients in a temporary office next to Methodist Hospital | Stone Oak. Accepting new patient appointments today! Temporary Office ··· 1139 East Sonterra Blvd, Ste 245 San Antonio, TX 78258

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LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS

INFRASTRUCTURE

JUNE 8 - JULY 13, 2021

ROADWORK continues from pg. 01

The entire project will produce a range of upgrades on 1604 from Bandera Road to Interstate 35 North that TxDOT says will “increase mobility, reduce congestion and enhance safety along the highly traveled corridor,” according to the state agency’s update. Specifically, San Antonio’s outer loop will be expanded from four lanes to 10 lanes, including the addition of a highoccupancy vehicle lane in each direction for buses and other multiple-passenger conveyances. Also, entrance and exit ramps will be reconfigured. The existing 1604/Interstate 10 West interchange will be replaced with a five-level, direct-connect interchange. TxDOT initially launched overnight

lane closures around the eastbound 1604 entrance ramp to La Cantera Parkway, and the eastbound 1604 exit ramp to Vance Jackson Road.

IN ADDITION, THE PROJECT WILL: • Replace signalized frontage road intersections with a continuous-flow configuration. • Remake the 1604/Blanco Road intersection as a “diverging diamond” where two directions of traffic on Blanco cross to the opposite side on both sides of the overpass. • Provide bicycle lanes and improvements for pedestrians along 1604 frontage roads, as well as Edwards Aquifer water-quality protections. The widening of 1604 across the

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heavily populated North Side has been one of TxDOT’s long-planned significant road improvement projects. Without the improvements, the state expects population growth will nearly double daily traffic counts on 1604, from 150,000 vehicles to 290,000 vehicles by 2045. Analysts say the average travel time between I-10 and I-35 could exceed one hour by then if the planned freeway upgrades aren’t made. The first segment of work will

involve $148 million in construction between Bandera and I-10. Work could finish by 2024. Contractors later this summer will begin $234 million worth of betterments on 1604 from I-10 to U.S. 281 North. This segment will be finished in 2025 and connect with newly opened flyover ramps to northbound 281. Early in 2022, reconstruction of the 1604/I-10 interchange commences with a scheduled completion date in 2025. The interchange revamp is estimated to

JUNE 8 - JULY 13, 2021

LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS INFRASTRUCTURE

Curious what is selling in your neighborhood? Scan me

ACTIVE

TA K E AWAYS

BUILDING A BETTER LOOP 1604

realtysanantonio.com/p/1512030

realtysanantonio.com/p/1524950

$1,100,000 5 bds

3.5 ba

$429,777 4,784 sq ft

214 Guadalupe River Dr, Seguin, TX 78155 Cyndi Cummings | 210-423-6782

3 bds

PENDING

realtysanantonio.com/p/1526437

01 TOP: A rendering shows a new Loop 1604/ Interstate 10 interchange, looking eastbound on 1604. Courtesy image/Texas Department of Transportation LEFT: According to the Texas Department of Transportation, widening Loop 1604 will decrease average drive times across the North Side between Interstate 35 and Bandera Road. Courtesy image/TxDOT

cost $234 million. The latter half of the 2020s will see construction crews concentrate on 1604 east from 281 to I-35. This entire stretch of 1604 work is estimated to cost $395 million, and is currently unfunded. Visit https://tinyurl.com/498z6vj8 for more project background information and to sign up and receive updates. eortiz@localcommunitynews.com Find this story and more at www. localcommunitynews.com

The widening of 1604 will include revamps of the I-10 and Blanco Road interchanges.

realtysanantonio.com/p/1526431

$395,000 4 bds

$439,000 2.5 ba

2,617 sq ft

5126 Blue Ivy, Bulverde, TX 78163 Mike Del Castillo | 512-944-5999

2 bds

realtysanantonio.com/p/1525308

$399,000

$199,900 2.5 ba

2,670 sq ft

2842 Morning Star, New Braunfels, TX 78132 Clark Gray | 512-554-9618

3 bds

The Texas Department of Transportation says a wider 1604 will improve mobility and reduce traffic congestion across the far North Side.

realtysanantonio.com/p/1513951

$175,000

$384,000 2 ba

1,053 sq ft

2015 Harness Ln, San Antonio, TX 78227 Jose Urrabazo | 210-508-0387

3 bds

LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM

2 ba

1,338 sq ft

185 Bryn Mawr Dr, San Antonio, TX 78209 Adam Biechlin | 210-718-7518

Check Out RealtySanAntonio.com

1,377 sq ft

SOLD

realtysanantonio.com/p/1522559

3 bds

2 ba

239 W Bedford Ave, San Antonio, TX 78226 John Talamantes | 210-592-3132

PENDING

Expansion work between U.S. 281 North and Bandera will result in lane closures and detours through 2025.

1,920 sq ft

PENDING

realtysanantonio.com/p/1523623

2 ba

4657 Odaniel Rd, Seguin, TX 78155 Monica Anguiano | 210-771-6722

PENDING

3 bds

2,104 sq ft

27640 Timberline Dr, San Antonio, TX 78260 Budd Group | 210-378-4249

ACTIVE

Preliminary work to expand Loop 1604 is underway, starting on a portion from Bandera Road to Interstate 10 West.

2 ba

Our new website helps you connect with top Central Texas agents, view current homes for sale, or get you started on the home selling process. Scan the QR Code to explore RealtySanAntonio.com today.

HAPPENING

LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS JUNE 8 - JULY 13, 2021

HAPPENING continues from pg. 07

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6:30-8 p.m. at La Madeleine, 722 N.W. Loop 410, Suite 201. For updates, contact Chelsea Hart at chelsea.hart@lls.org or call 210998-5127.

JUNE 29

ADULT SOCIAL Bythel Hagee Life Center, 18755 Stone Oak Parkway, on the campus of Cornerstone Church, is the location at 6:30 p.m. for a singles ministry for ages 3050. For updates, visit https:// www.sacornerstone.org/singlesministry.

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All military members and guests are invited to an 8-10 a.m. meal at Lupe Tortilla, 21103 U.S. 281 North. For updates, contact www. post10.weebly.com.

JULY 3

PEOPLE & PETS ON PARADE The Castle Hills Community Organization will hold a Patriotic Pets and People Parade starting at 9:30 a.m. at the City Hall Commons, 209 Lemonwood Drive. Trophies will be given. Participation is free. Afterward, attendees may socialize, and buy and enjoy snow cones. For more, visit http:// castlehillscommunityorganization. org.

JULY 10

SUPPORT GROUP Myasthenia gravis sufferers meet from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Baptist HealthLink, 288 W. Bitters Road. For updates, visit www. mgsouthtexas.org.

With one Sunday event a month (June 13, July 11 and Aug. 15), the Paragon Splash & Dash Series 2021 for swimmers is at the Barshop Jewish Community Center pool, 12500 N.W. Military Highway, begins at 8 a.m. Agegroup divisions from 5-17. For updates and to register for races, visit https://www.trisignup. com/Race/TX/SanAntonio/ ParagonSplashDashSeries2018.

MONDAYS

SO, YOU THINK YOU CAN SING San Antonio Chordsmen, a barbershop chorus, rehearses at 7 p.m. in The Backdoor youth center behind Colonial Hills United Methodist Church, 5247 Vance Jackson 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 Road. For updates or cancellations, contact Wendell Peters at wendellpeters@sbcglobal.net.

MONDAYS

BOY SCOUTS MEET Boy Scout Troop 511, ages 11-17, meets weekly 7:15-8:30 p.m. at Voigt Park, 700 El Portal Drive in Hollywood Park. For updates, call Buck Buchanan at 210-313-7006 or email buckbuchananusmc@gmail. com or D’Layne Kelly at 210573-8694 or email dlaynekelly@ gmail.com.

602 N.W. Loopcontinues 410, Suite HAPPENING on130 pg. 22

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REAL ESTATE

LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS MAY 11 - JUNE 8, 2021

North Side home sales and prices surpassing prepandemic numbers by TRAVIS E. POLING

IT’S GETTING HARDER to buy a home in San Antonio. Prices are seeing new highs as the competition for properties intensifies ahead of the traditional summer buying season.

Sales and prices rose across many of the North Side and far North Side ZIP codes in April. In general, there are more buyers than homes available as sales surge past pre-pandemic days, analysts said. The latest figures are drawn from April sales data. For example, the 25 houses sold in April in the 78213 ZIP code were snatched up, on average, in less than a month compared to two months on the market last year. The median-sold price in that area — which includes Castle Hills — was flat compared to last April, but was up 9% from April 2019 to $192,500. In 78216, the median sales price was down 10.5% to $299,750, but up slightly from April 2019. The 32 houses sold moved in an average of 31 days. The median sales price increased 20% to $378,500 for the 52 houses sold in April in 78230, when the latest figures were available. Houses there sold in an average of 34 days, down from 52 days the same period last year. Higher-end homes dominated the ten April home sales in 78231, where the median sales price rose 17.4% to $405,000. The houses spent an

average of just 17 days on the market compared to 79 days last April. The number of houses sold in 78232 bumped up by one to 35 in April compared to the same month last year. The median price climbed 18 percent to $335,000. For the 78248 ZIP code, 26 houses sold in an average of 19 days, compared to 32 days last April. The median sales price also saw a 5.2% bump to $437,000. The median price for 69 houses sold in the 78249 area grew 12.5% to $280,000, selling in just 23 days on average. In the 78259 ZIP code, the number of houses sold in April rose to 44 from 29 and sold on average in just 18 days after going on the market, even as median prices rose 24% to $367,500. House sales weren’t as heavy as usual in 78260, with 53 total sales compared to 57 last April and 80 houses during the same period in 2019. They still moved quickly at 49 days on average, compared to 81 days last April. The median sales price was up 18% to $457,650. The 78261 ZIP code was one of

the most active parts of the city for sales in April with 72 houses selling in an average of 47 days. There was a modest 3.5% rise in the median price to $335,000. This April, inventory in the San Antonio area was 1.3 months. “I’ve seen a lot of things in 20 years in real estate, but I’ve never seen 1.3 months of inventory,” said Sara Gerrish, a member of RE/Max Unlimited’s Beatrice Briseño Team. While developers and investors are snatching up land and lots wherever available, including North Side tracts, Gerrish said there is not enough new housing on the market because construction costs are so high. Materials require more capital, especially wood, which now costs builders two to four times what it used to because of demand. Overall in April, there were 3,483 closed deals for singlefamily houses in the San Antonio area. That’s up 27% from the same period last year as the COVID-19 pandemic stalled much of the economy. Even so, the latest statistics compiled by the San Antonio Board of Realtors from Multiple Listing Service data, shows a 16 percent increase from a robust April 2019. San Antonio real estate professionals say fevered sales, numerous bids and the short amount of time properties stay on the market are partly driven by people realizing their changing dwelling needs during the pandemic. “Almost every sale in the last year was COVID related,” said long-time San Antonio real estate

Tips for a winning housing bid HERE ARE SOME POINTERS FROM LOCAL EXPERTS:

“They need to be quick, ready and viable,” said Phyllis Browning Co. real estate agent Ann Van Pelt of the importance of prequalification and knowing how much cash to come up with if the bid is more than the appraised value. Offering far above the list price may be only part of what is needed to sweeten the pot, said Sara Gerrish, a member of RE/Max Unlimited’s Beatrice Briseño Team. If the buyer doesn’t need to move in right away, but the seller hasn’t lined up the next home, the buyer can let the seller stay in the house on a lease or even rentfree after closing. The appraisal process has gone from a week to three weeks because of increased business, said Todd Schneider, Jefferson Bank’s senior vice president for mortgage and sales manager. It can sometimes be shortened by moving forward with the sale with an estimated value from loan backers FreddieMac or FannieMae. But, Schneider warns that a disaster-inspection report may be required even if an appraisal waiver is in place. Most closings, he said, take 28 to 30 days. When buying a new house from a builder, be prepared to pay more than even a year ago and know the builder may not settle on a price until construction is nearly complete because of the rising cost of materials, Gerrish said.

MAY 11 - JUNE 8, 2021

ZIP CODE

APRIL HOUSING STATISTICS FOR NORTH SIDE/STONE OAK

REAL ESTATE 15

LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS

AVERAGE SOLD PRICE

MEDIAN SOLD PRICE

AVERAGE DAYS ON MARKET

HOUSES SOLD

78213

78216

78230

78231

78232

78248

78249

78259

78260

78261

2021

$241,370

$321,977

$460,782

$410,190

$411,443

$464,327

$344,773

$370,038

$533,198

$379,315

2020

$244,421

$328,767

$328,121

$363,843

$304,422

$473,343

$267,119

$327,200

$411,027

$346,855

2019

$223,067

$304,916

$320,533

$270,444

$331,690

$395,324

$272,569

$308,561

$378,758

$327,878

2021

$192,500

$299,750

$378,500

$405,000

$335,000

$437,000

$280,000

$367,500

$457,650

$335,000

2020

$190,000

$335,000

$315,000

$345,000

$284,000

$415,500

$248,950

$296,500

$391,500

$323,750

2019

$176,500

$270,000

$281,000

$254,000

$285,000

$416,900

$230,250

$297,000

$359,000

$301,500

2021

2020

2019

101

121

2021

2020

2019

SOURCE: San Antonio Board of Realtors

SAN ANTONIO AREA APRIL HOUSING STATS

AVERAGE SOLD PRICE

MEDIAN SOLD PRICE

AVERAGE DAYS ON MARKET

HOUSES SOLD

2021

$333,671

2020

$273,473

2019

$267,071

2021

$277,000

2020

$240,400

2019

$230,700

2021

2020

2019

2021

3,483

2020

2,735

2019

3,003

SOURCE: San Antonio Board of Realtors

agent Ann Van Pelt. People realized they needed something bigger, something smaller or that a pool was a must have, she said. “Inside North Loop 1604, the kind of … 1970s/1980s retro homes are making a resurgence,” Van Pelt said. “I think it’s a very exuberant time in the market.” Industry insiders say buyers have had to get creative in making their offer stand out from others to get the winning bid.

“You have to know what you can afford and you have to be prequalified,” Van Pelt said. She added to be patient because another house will come along. “There’s not just one house for one person,” Van Pelt said. Lenders, too, are busy and hiring to keep up with the demand. “It’s pretty wild,” said Todd Schneider, Jefferson Bank’s senior vice president for mortgage and sales manager. “There’s a lot of frustration

among some buyers who don’t have a lot of cash” to sweeten the offer above the appraised value. The bank’s mortgage operation is doing a lot of prequalification of buyers so they can move fast on bidding, he said. Financing of lot purchases to out-of-state buyers and investors also has been a growing part of the business lately because they expect values to climb, Schneider said. “We’re just seeing so many people coming to Texas and most of the lot financing is by people from out of state,” Schneider said. “They’re making a land grab.” Shifting those puzzle pieces helped keep new stock on the market, even while the sellers were also buying locally. Add in the rapid population growth and first-time homebuyers taking advantage of low interest rates and supply struggles to keep up with demand. A key way of measuring that push and pull of the most basic of economic principles is how many

months of housing supply is available on the market. San Antonio’s supply hovered around 3% for much of the last decade, which makes it a seller’s market. A market balanced between buyers and sellers is six months of inventory. The average price of a house in the San Antonio area in April was $333,671, up 22% from the same month last year. The median price was $277,000, an increase of 15% from last April, according to SABOR. Those houses sold in April spent an average of 36 days on the market compared to 61 days in April 2020. “Spring home sales are paving the way for positive trends and exponential growth for the summer months ahead,” said SABOR’s Chairwoman Cher Miculka. “Across all of Texas, we are seeing soaring home sales as the population of cities expand.” According to Texas Realtor’s 2021 Texas Relocation Report, about 100,000 more people moved to Texas in 2019 from another state – led by Californians and Floridians – than the number that moved out of the state in the same year. Find this story and more at www. localcommunitynews.com. LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM

LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS

PUBLIC SAFETY

JUNE 8 - JULY 13, 2021

Zuniga is Castle Hills new top cop by EDMOND ORTIZ

CASTLE HILLS — With more than 25 years of law-enforcement experience, Esteban “Steve” Zuniga is the town’s new police chief.

City Council voted April 13 to take the “interim” tag off of Zuniga’s title. He took over for John Siemens, who left Castle Hills to become Universal City’s top cop. Zuniga’s policing stints include five years with South Padre Island, and 10 years with Castle Hills where he most recently held the rank of captain. He thanked the council for its vote of confidence. He wants to continue implementing a vision for the future promoted by his predecessor, he said. “Chief Siemens had his vision on

what direction he wanted to take the department and did so with our support, and got us to where we are today,” he said. Added Zuniga, “It is still my vision to

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Esteban ‘Steve’ Zuniga has been Castle Hills’ permanent police chief since mid-April. He served as interim chief following John Siemens’ departure to Universal City. Courtesy photo/ Castle Hills

continue in the same direction that we are going now, of course always seeking ways to improve the quality of service that we provide the citizens of Castle Hills and not to disrupt or change the culture that we have worked so hard to build.” But, Zuniga added, the Police

Department will not simply stand pat. He supports one of Siemens’ original proposals to create a trafficenforcement officer position. The new chief’s educational experience includes training at the Law Enforcement Management Institute of Texas at Sam Houston

JUNE 8 - JULY 13, 2021

LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS PUBLIC SAFETY

State University for command staff leadership and public information officer skills. City staffers plan to forward the proposal to the council as it prepares the Fiscal Year 2022 budget this summer. “We’ll always be on the lookout for ways to improve all areas,” Zuniga said. “There’s always room for improvement.” While searching for Siemens’ successor, the city put together a panel to review the 24 applications they received for the chief’s position. City Manager Ryan Rapelye said the panel zeroed in on candidates with law-enforcement leadership, training and overall management know-how. The city focused on applicants who had experience as assistant police chiefs, captains or a chief in Castle Hills or a similar-size city. The panel pared down the list to two candidates — Zuniga and an outside prospect.

Following numerous interviews, the panel recommended Zuniga. According to Rapelye, Zuniga’s interview responses were the closest to being aligned with the needs of the city, residents and the force. “During the interview, (Zuniga) demonstrated a strong understanding of the demands levied on a police chief of a city of our demographics, expectations and budgetary parameters,” Rapelye said. “Furthermore, Mr. Zuniga came recommended from, not only his references, but others who were interviewed and were very complimentary and spoke highly of his experience especially among current officers,” the city manager said. “The city also received a letter from the Castle Hills Police Officers Association indicating a letter of support for him as interim chief.” eortiz@localcommunitynews.com Find this story and more at www. localcommunitynews.com.

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LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS

FIESTA 2021

JUNE 8 - JULY 13, 2021

PARTY continues from pg. 01

events happening June 17-27. The celebration traditionally takes place in April. The commission spent months working with city officials to determine when and how to resume the festival, which raises money for dozens of local nonprofits. The festival commemorates Texas independence. Commission President Baltazar “Walter” Serna Jr. in a statement said, “Working with health expert Dr. Marty Makary and based on the current and projected scientific data, the Fiesta San Antonio Commission, the city of San Antonio and (San Antonio Metropolitan) Health have determined

that Fiesta 2021 can occur safely.” Citing mainly logistical concerns, organizers of more than 60 events await to return in 2022 with their events. Some major events not happening this year include Alamo Heights Night, the Battle of Flowers and Flambeau parades, King William Fair, Taste of the Northside, Taste of New Orleans, Fiesta Oyster Bake and the daily carnival. Attendees at all events must wear masks and practice physical distancing. Some events will have limited capacity. For more, visit https:// fiestasanantonio.org. eortiz@localcommunitynews.com Find this story and more at www. localcommunitynews.com.

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June 18-27

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7 a.m.-1 p.m. June 19,

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FIESTA CASTLE HILLS 8 a.m.-5 p.m. June 19,

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FIESTA WOMEN’S & COED SOCCER TOURNAMENT June 19-20, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., SCHERTZ SOCCER COMPLEX,

10 a.m.-2 p.m. June 19, SAN ANTONIO BOTANICAL GARDEN

CHANCLAS Y CERVEZAS 5-10 p.m. June 19, THE GREENLINE, BROOKS

INVESTITURE OF KING ANTONIO June 19, 6-7:30 p.m., ALAMO PLAZA

DAY IN OLD MEXICO AND CHARREADA 3-5:30 p.m. June 20 and 27, Rancho del Charro,

TEXAS CAVALIERS RIVER PARADE 7-9 p.m. June 21, RIVER WALK

TECH TREK 5-8 p.m. June 22, DOWNTOWN TECH DISTRICT

A NIGHT IN OLD SAN ANTONIO 5:30-10:30 p.m. June 22-25, LA VILLITA

GARTENFEST 5 p.m.-12 a.m. June 23-25, BEETHOVEN HALLE AND GARDEN

FESTIVAL DE ANIMALES 10 a.m.-5 p.m. June 26-27, SAN ANTONIO ZOO

CIRCLE FOR LIFE MOTOR RALLY 8-11 a.m. June 26, JAVELINA HARLEYDAVIDSON

CELEBRATION OF TRADITIONS POW WOW 11 a.m.-4 p.m. June 26, MISSION COUNTY PARK

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JUNE 8 - JULY 13, 2021

LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS

LOWDOWN

received a cash prize, and entered their films in the Organization of World Heritage Cities International Video Production Competition. See more at www.filmsanantonio.com and www. sanantonio.gov/worldheritage.

LOWDOWN continues from pg. 08

intensive-care unit team, the financial gifts exceeded the cost of the bears. The nurses presented the remainder to the family.

NORTHSIDE EDUCATION FOUNDATION’S GRANT PATROL VISITED 50 NORTHSIDE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT CAMPUSES AND DEPARTMENTS TO AWARD $133,000 in

TWO NORTH EAST SCHOOL OF THE ARTS GRADUATES WERE WINNERS IN THE #FILMSA CONTEST presented by the San Antonio Department of Arts and Culture’s Film Commission and the city’s World Heritage Office. Evan Materne and Amadeo Rivas won in the 18-21 age group. Their film, “Maria’s Café: A Small Business in a Big World,” shows a local family’s dedication supporting its community while running a restaurant during the COVID-19 pandemic. Each winner

grants, officials said. This past academic year, NEF provided a total of $308,000 in resource grants districtwide.

JOHNSON HIGH SCHOOL’S MARK SOTO WILL COACH TEAM BLACK in the 2022 San Antonio Sports All-Star Football Game. The match will showcase top local high school players following the

All-American Bowl on Jan. 8, 2022, in the Alamodome. Southside High School’s Ricky Lock will coach Team Gold in the battle between the area’s top seniors.

Blue Cares’ fundraising events, sponsors and SAPOA members, are awarded to deserving students from all across San Antonio,” SAPOA President Danny Diaz said in a statement.

BLUE CARES, THE SAN ANTONIO POLICE OFFICERS ASSOCIATION’S NON-PROFIT OUTREACH ARM, AWARDED $17,000 IN SCHOLARSHIPS to 12 high school

WELLS FARGO AND FEDERAL HOME LOAN BANK OF DALLAS AWARDED A $750,000 AFFORDABLE HOUSING PROGRAM SUBSIDY

students, including: Keagan Dollarhide, Churchill High School; Imani Evans, Clark High School; Anaya Patel, Basis San Antonio-Shavano Campus; and Felipe Serna Jr., Antonian College Preparatory High School. The scholarship was created in memory of Officer Patricia Calderon, who drowned in Salado Creek while chasing a shoplifting suspect Dec. 27, 1988. “The scholarships, which are funded through

to Prospera Housing and Community Services to help fund the creation of a new apartment community in the Dellview neighborhood. The $41.1 million project includes demolition of one of two contiguous apartment complexes, Arbor Place Apartments, and rehabilitation of the other, West Avenue Apartments, to create The Arbors at West Avenue. Find Local Lowdown at www. localcommunitynews.com.

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LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS JUNE 8 - JULY 13, 2021

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Burger Boy debuts on the North Side by OLIVIER J. BOURGOIN

BURGER BOY, a no-frills San Antonio mainstay since 1985, continues expanding with a North Side home.

The original Burger Boy at 2323 N. St. Mary’s St. is not only a fast-food institution known for popular burgers and shakes, but the company says it also is home to one of the oldest existing rotating signs in Texas. The sign’s origins can be traced back to the 1950s.

The original Burger Boy at 2323 N. St. Mary’s St. in North Central (right) boasts one of the oldest rotating signs (above) still in use in Texas. A new Burger Boy has opened on the North Side at 151 W. Bitters Road, just off U.S. 281 North. File photo

The newest eatery is at 151 W. Bitters Road. The 2,300-square-foot site occupies a former El Pollo Loco. In 2017, Burger Boy’s first proprietor Carl Bates sold to local

entrepreneurial trio Guy Ellison, Rick Molina and Bryce Pohlmeier. “I’ve been involved in the restaurant business in one way or another for 19 years, since I was 18 years old,”

BURGER BOY

151 W. Bitters Road For more, visit burgerboysa.com.

JUNE 8 - JULY 13, 2021

LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS

EAT LOCAL

Pohlmeier said. They previously owned a Dunkin’ franchise “and we wanted to expand on our business experience.” He added, “Since purchasing the original Burger Boy, we have opened two new locations. First, the one at 9334 Potranco (Road) in February of 2018 and subsequently the Shaenfield (Road) location at 7363 W. Loop 1604 North in September 2019.” Pohlmeier noted quality is what makes the burgers so desired. “Fresh-baked buns,” he said. “Locally sourced meat and we don’t use any warmers. Our burgers come to you straight off the grill.”

In homage to its founder, the menu still features the Bates Special Combo — a single-patty burger, regular fries and a drink. Targeted to open this summer is another location, 4402 S. New Braunfels Ave., on the South Side. “We will be carefully considering our expansion plans, in order to keep growing,” Pohlmeier said. “As long as our restaurants continue to produce at a high level, we plan on continuing to grow but we don’t want to open new locations at the expense of existing ones.” Hours at the Bitters Road locale are 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Wednesday and 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Thursday through Saturday.

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MONDAYS

ROTARY CLUB

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The North Central Rotary Club of San Antonio meets 5:30-7 p.m. Mondays 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 9-9:45 a.m.) inside House of Prayer Lutheran Church, 10226 Ironside Drive. For updates, call Carolyn at 210-415-0937.

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San Antonio Farmer’s Market Association offers area growers’ farm-fresh 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. each Wednesday for food distribution to needy families. For more, call 210-377-3030 or visit https://missioncity.church/events/manna-foodministry.

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WEDNESDAYS

MID-WEEK MANNA Coker United Methodist Church, 231 E. North Loop Road, invites community members for dinner and fellowship 5:30-8 p.m. each Wednesday. Costs are $5 for adults, $2 for children ages 10 and under. Email gail. hatcher@coker.org or call 210-494-3455 to RSVP and for other details. Attendees must wear a mask when not eating, and social distancing is urged.

THURSDAYS

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LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS

HAPPENING

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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 or call Erin Nevelow at 210-528-0377 or email erinnevelow.rotary@gmail.com.

THURSDAYS

ROTARY CLUB MEETING Northwest Rotary Club members gather at Outback Steakhouse, 12511 Interstate 10 West, at noon. For updates or cancellations, call 210-576-5475.

FRIDAYS

LOCAL PRODUCE Drop by St. Matthew Sports Complex & Recreational Area, 11121 Wurzbach Road, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. as the San Antonio Farmer’s Market Association presents farmfresh fare. For updates or cancellations, visit sanantoniofarmersmarket.org.

SATURDAYS

FARMERS’ MARKETS 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

JUNE 8 - JULY 13, 2021

LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS

a.m. to 3 p.m. For updates or cancellations, call 972-884-0680.

SUNDAYS

ENCINO FARMERS MARKET Village at Stone Oak, 22610 U.S. 281 North, is home to farm-fresh produce and more from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For vendors and updates, visit fourseasonsmarkets.com.

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 in the month. For links or updates, call Isabel Resendez at 210-302-6860 or email resendezi@jcc-sa.org.

HAPPENING

ONGOING

NEVER TOO OLD TO LEARN 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, visit https://communityed. neisd.net or call 210-407-0140 or visit www.nisd.net/ace.

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DRIVING SENIORS 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.

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MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT National Alliance on Mental Illness of San Antonio offers free online support for people experiencing stress, anxiety, depression or any other mental-health condition. Support is available for anyone 1-2:30 p.m. each second and fourth Saturday, for essential workers 7-8:30 p.m. each second and fourth Monday, and for health care workers at 8 p.m. each first and third Monday. For more, visit https://www.nami-sat.org/ nami-connection.

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Institute for Cultural & Healing Traditions offers Independent Scholars’ evenings and sessions on integrative holistic healing 7 p.m. each Thursday. The evenings are focused solely on the topic of presentation, and are intellectually stimulating, free and open to the public, or co-learners, who actively participate bringing their ideas and critique to the presenter. Until a physical venue is announced, discussions are held online. Download https://bluejeans. com/930272748?src=join_info. Meeting ID: 930 272 748. Phone number is 408-419-1715.

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