LOCAL - North SA edition - April 2021

LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM VOL. 9, ISSUE 10 | APRIL 13 - MAY 11, 2021

LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS CASTLE HILLS • HILL COUNTRY VILLAGE • HOLLYWOOD PARK • SHAVANO PARK • NORTH SA

May 1 ballot box sees crowded field

HOME & GARDEN

SUSAN YERKES | PG. 04

HOME & GARDEN | PG. 12-15

THE LESSONS OF HISTORY

SPRUCE UP FOR SPRINGTIME

GOOD EATS

Elections loom in 3 North Side suburbs

by EDMOND ORTIZ

NEARLY 30 SAN ANTONIANS are running either for mayor or three North Side City Council seats in the May 1 election.

Two-term Mayor Ron Nirenberg and former District 6 Councilman Greg

by EDMOND ORTIZ

CASTLE HILLS AND SHAVANO PARK officeholders face opposition in May 1 elections, but Hollywood Park has one less contest after a councilman seeking reelection instead replaced the outgoing mayor.

Rob Rodriguez, accompanied by his wife, Melinda, files for the District 8 City Council post Feb. 11. Courtesy photo/ Rob Rodriguez

CANDIDATES continues on pg. 10

Hill Country Village has no contested races.

FUN continues on pg. 18

VOTING continues on pg. 16

2 STAFF

LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS APRIL 13 - MAY 11, 2021

PUBLISHER Jaselle Luna EDITORIAL Editor

Thomas Edwards News Staff

Edmond Ortiz Contributing Writers

Noi Mahoney, Arthur Schechter and Susan Yerkes ART Designer

E. Fisher Contributing Artist

Jeremiah Teutsch ADVERTISING

READER SERVICE

TA L K LO CA L

Mailing Address

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ON THE COVER – Johnson High School senior Isabella Jimenez launched My Fun Food. The free app contains a growing recipe list of affordable, easy-to-make healthy meals. Helping others get proper nutrition has been a longtime goal for the student.

See the story on pg. 18. Courtesy images/Jimenez family

WHAT TEXANS SUFFERED during February’s great winter storm can never happen again.

As temperatures stayed below freezing for several days, and millions went without electricity or water, it became painfully clear no one was in charge.

When essential services were needed most, they were unavailable. Texas, which has the ninth-largest economy on the planet, suddenly entered the Dark Ages.

Today, the misery many of us endured during the blackouts already seems like ancient history, but it’s really not. The lingering effects may even be putting a chill on your bank account. The last few weeks, utility companies have foreshadowed higher energy costs passed on to consumers.

Nor will this be the last time Old Man Winter delivers such an icy blow to the Lone Star State, according to climate predictions.

For years, Texas utilities received warnings about a potential and catastrophic collapse of the state’s electrical grid. Yet, officials failed to assess previous episodes and correlate energy needs with population and business growth.

Changing the guard at local and state utility boards and the Electric Reliability Council of Texas, which controls the grid, must continue.

Texas also has to overhaul its energy-production systems and electric availability commensurate with the last five years of expansion.

The Legislature must authorize the means to winterize vulnerable equipment and safeguard the system so residents are protected for the next crisis.

Texans not only deserve answers, but solutions.

This tragedy cannot be repeated.

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OPINION

LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS APRIL 13 - MAY 11, 2021

Opening our eyes to the lessons of history

by SUSAN YERKES

I NEVER THOUGHT the University of Texas at Austin’s “The Eyes of Texas” was a racist song. As an alumna, I still don’t. But, I certainly know a lot more about it after a UT committee released a detailed report in March. The members found little evidence to connect the line “The eyes of Texas are

upon you” to Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee, and none at all to suggest it espoused slavery. However, the group found the lyric quoted in a rousing speech by former UT President William Prather in the 1900s, and Prather got it from an exhortation by Confederate Brig. Gen. John Gregg to his troops.

Gregg may have referenced George Washington’s famous quotation, “The eyes of all our countrymen are upon us.”

Or, he could’ve made it up. Whatever.

For now, “The Eyes of Texas” remains the official school song.

But now the accusation of racism is out there, and it’ll continue to cause

controversy, just as the protest against singing “The Star-Spangled Banner” still riles up folks. Our nation’s history includes many sad and shameful traditions, from genocide against Native Americans to slavery. I love my country, but I can’t pretend our story isn’t rife with painful discrimination.

Here in San Antonio, with a Latino majority, most of my Black and Hispanic friends recall hurtful bigotry. You can legislate equality, you can cancel culture, but you cannot wave a magic wand to make prejudice disappear.

Will removing Dr. Seuss books or “Little House on the Prairie” from libraries change the past?

Does “whiting out” history make us a stronger nation? Plans to restore the Alamo have been hampered by a battle over what parts of the struggle for Texas independence should be presented. There’s even a debate about any mention of slavery when “reimagining” the Alamo — even though William Barret Travis’ slave, Joe, was one of the only survivors of the siege.

It seems to me the truth about history, warts and all, helps us learn from the past, not repeat it. At UT-Austin, President Jay Hartzell has now created new programs to recruit and support Black students and more diverse faculty. He also wants to erect more monuments and spaces honoring minorities.

This wouldn’t erase the fact Black students weren’t even admitted there until the 1950s. Yet, it seems to me moving forward to change the world in positive ways makes more sense than searching the past for long-dead people to pillory.

A few years ago, at a Texas Exes event, I had the opportunity to meet internationally acclaimed mezzosoprano Barbara Smith Conrad, one of UT-Austin’s most accomplished alums. In 1956, Conrad was one of the Precursors – the first group of Black attendees at the university.

Born near Pittsburg, Texas, she enrolled at the university the first year of its desegregation. A brilliant singer, she won the lead in a student opera, but the Legislature threatened to cut UT’s funding if a Black woman was allowed to play a major role opposite a white man. Sadly, the school caved.

Harry Belafonte heard and offered to pay for her transfer elsewhere.

She declined. The pioneer wanted to stay and be a part of the change. A civil-rights champion until her death in 2017, Conrad proudly sang “The Eyes of Texas” at the university’s 2000 commencement. Later, she said she chose to remain at UT because, “Music can unite us.”

Is it too much to hope exposing and acknowledging the past, and working to change the future, can unite us, instead of divide us? syerkes@localcommunitynews.com

One of the most well-respected and award-winning journalists in South Texas, Susan Yerkes pens a column each month for LOCAL Community News. A veteran of newspapers, television, radio and online, she calls San Antonio home.

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LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS APRIL 13 - MAY 11, 2021

APRIL

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

APRIL 14, 30

APRIL 17

900 Saddletree Court Castle Hills: 6:30 p.m. April 13 & May 11; 209 Lemonwood Drive Northside ISD: 5 p.m. April 27; 7001 Culebra Road North East ISD: 5:30 p.m. May 10; 8961 Tesoro Drive

Single Professionals Network, a friendship group for mature adults, gathers 5-7 p.m. at Torchy’s Tacos, 18210 Sonterra Place (April 14), and Cover 3, 1806 N. Loop 1604 West (April 30). SPN provides opportunities around town for people who are single, widowed or divorced (mainly 55-plus) to make new friends. For updates or cancellations, visit www.spn-sa.org/.

If you’re single, divorced, widowed and 50 or older, fellowship, games, fun and lunch await from noon to 4 p.m. at Cornerstone Church’s Bythel Hagee Life Center, 18755 Stone Oak Parkway. For registration costs, updates or cancellations, visit https:// www.sacornerstone.org/singles-ministry.

APRIL 13 & MAY 11

APRIL 16-18

A sewing club meets from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Encino Park Community Center, 1923 Encino Rio St. Bring a power strip or extension cord. For updates or cancellations, contact Sylvia Jolet at sjolet@earthlink.net or call 210-497-3383.

The sixth annual Huebner PTA Fiesta 5K will be held virtually this year as Nacho Average Fiesta 5K. Proceeds benefit Huebner Road Elementary School. For updates, cancellations and details, visit http://www.huebnerpta. org/pagef.

City Councils/ School Districts

Hollywood Park: 6 p.m. April 20; 2 Mecca Drive Hill Country Village: 5 p.m. May 20; 116 Aspen Lane Shavano Park: 6:30 p.m. April 26;

SEWING GROUP

SINGLE, READY TO MINGLE?

SCHOOL FUNDRAISER

APRIL 17

VIRTUAL NATURE TALK: WILDFLOWERS & BUTTERFLIES

Celebrate the Year of the Ox

From the comfort of home, watch Master Naturalist Drake White discuss creating a butterfly and pollinator habitat. For updates, cancellations and to participate in the 9-10 a.m. event over Facebook Live, visit https://www. philhardbergerpark.org/calendar-events/ blc-wildflowers-butterflies.

APRIL 17

SPRING CLEANING IN STONE OAK

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The parking lot at North Central Baptist Hospital, 520 Madison Oak Drive, is home to a free shredding event from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. For updates, cancellations and a list of accepted items, visit www. stoneoakpoa.com.

CALLING ALL SENIOR SINGLES

APRIL 19

DISTRICT 10 MEETING During the COVID-19 pandemic, the City Council District 10 monthly session is held virtually at 7 p.m. For links, updates or cancellations, visit https://www. sanantonio.gov/council/d10.

APRIL 21

RETIRED TEACHERS MEETING The North San Antonio Retired Teachers Association meets 10 a.m. to noon at San Pedro Presbyterian Church, 14900 San Pedro Ave. Dues cost $50. For updates or cancellations, visit https://localunits.org/ NSARTA/.

APRIL 21

STONE OAK POA BOARD Conferences are normally held at 3:30 p.m. in the Property Owners Association offices, 19210 Huebner Road, Suite 100.

However, due to COVID-19, sessions may take place over Zoom. For updates or cancellations, visit http://www. stoneoakpoa.com or call 210-858-8508.

APRIL 22

IT’S A ‘C’ THING This cancer support group for survivors ages 20-40 and their loved ones meets at La Madeleine, 722 N.W. Loop 410, Suite 201, from 6:30-8 p.m. For updates or

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.

APRIL 13 - MAY 11, 2021

LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS

HAPPENING

7

APRIL 27

APRIL 30

MAY 1

Students in the Northside and North East independent school districts receive time off for a holiday.

The Bythel Hagee Life Center, 18755 Stone Oak Parkway, on the campus of Cornerstone Church, hosts a 6:30 p.m. singles ministry for adults ages 30-50. For updates or cancellations, visit https://www. sacornerstone.org/singles-ministry.

APRIL 24

APRIL 28

Northern Hills Golf Club, 13202 Scarsdale St., hosts “Fore! the Kids Golf Classic” at 1 p.m. Proceeds benefit Barshop Jewish Community Center youth programs. Cost is $175 for individual golfers. For updates, cancellations and to register, visit https://www.jccsanantonio.org/index. php?src=events&srctype=detail&category=Events&refno=7949.

Vogt Auction Galleries, 7223 Blanco Road, at 1 p.m. presents “Forum Giving 2021,” a new fundraising initiative in lieu of the traditional in-person gala. There will be a special preview April 30. Proceeds benefit the Texas Biomedical Research Institute.

For updates or cancellations, visit www.

ForumGiving.com.

Master Naturalist Jerry Morrisey will lead a virtual tour of the park’s trails and identify wildflowers. For updates, cancellations and to participate in the 9-10 a.m. event over Facebook Live, visit https://www. philhardbergerpark.org/calendarevents/4th-sat-wildflowers.

The group normally gathers at 7 p.m. in Stone Oak Methodist Hospital, 1139 E. Sonterra Blvd., classrooms No. 1 and No. 2. The hospital is just off U.S. 281 North.

For updates or cancellations, call Art Downey, alliance president, at 210-497-8873.

cancellations, contact Chelsea Hart at Chelsea.hart@lls.org or call 210-9985127.

APRIL 23

SCHOOL’S OUT

WILDFLOWERS OF HARDBERGER PARK

LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM

ADULT SOCIAL

DISTRICT 9 NEIGHBORHOOD ALLIANCE

GOLF FOR A CAUSE

MAY 1

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

LIVE CHARITY EVENT

MAY 7-8

BARGAIN HUNTING? The Encino Park Women’s Club will host its annual neighborhood garage sale.

For updates, cancellations, locations and times, call President Anne Frazer at 210355-0448.

HAPPENING continues on pg. 11

8

LOWDOWN

LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS APRIL 13 - MAY 11, 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, later this spring will offer the eatery’s popular burgers and other fare.

The site’s design, on the edge of Hill Country Village, should mimic 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. Hours at the new spot will be 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Wednesday and 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Thursday through Saturday. For more, visit burgerboysa.com.

OPTIMAL FEET, 9815 Interstate 10 West at Wurzbach Road, changes lives “through the use of personally fitted arch supports,” according to a company statement. “We help reduce or alleviate pain from

plantar fasciitis, bunions ankles, knees, hips, sciatica and the back by improved alignment, posture and balance.” Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, and noon to 4 p.m.

Sunday. For more, call 210-3699300 or 210-369-9353, or visit optimalfeetsa.com or email info@ optimalfeetllc.com.

PAN & COFFEE, 19298 Stone Oak Parkway, offers freshly baked goods with a focus on Mexican sweetbread.

There’s also a pet-friendly terrace.

Hours are 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. weekends. For more, call 210-756 7312 or visit https://www.facebook. com/PanCoffee-102824455113755.

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of the Robert L.B. Tobin Land Bridge at Phil Hardberger Park, officially opened to the public April 5. Marking completion of the land bridge’s construction over Wurzbach Parkway, the walkway climbs 18 feet off the ground, offering views of the tree canopy and connecting pedestrians to the bridge. Former Mayor Phil Hardberger was joined by current Mayor Ron Nirenberg and County Judge Nelson Wolff for an inaugural stroll.

EXPANSION OF THE SOUTHBOUND LANES OF U.S. 281 NORTH AT EVANS ROAD was completed at the beginning of March, according to the Texas Department of Transportation.

THE CASTLE HILLS CITY COUNCIL MARCH 16 UNANIMOUSLY APPROVED a

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three-year contract extension for City Manager Ryan Rapelye, who came aboard in 2018.

NORTHSIDE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT TRUSTEES RECENTLY APPROVED CGC General Contractors to handle renovations to Hobby Middle School science classrooms.

LOGAN TUCKER RECENTLY JOINED THE CASTLE HILLS POLICE DEPARTMENT after three years as a patrol officer with the Dallas force. “We are excited to bring him onboard,” said Castle Hills police Lt. Wayne Waggoner.

GAMEZ CUSTOM TAILORS RECENTLY CELEBRATED ITS 43rd anniversary in Castle Hills. Owner Rudy Gamez in 1978 was the first tenant of Castle Creek Village shopping center on Blanco Road. Gamez also turned 90 on March 9.

CLAIRE KOLTUN, A STUDENT AT THE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF THE AMERICAS on the LEE High School campus, received an honorable mention from C-SPAN’s national 2021 StudentCam competition. Koltun garnered $250 for the documentary, “Earth’s Current Future: Climate Change.” The contest invited middle and high school pupils to produce a short video on various topical themes.

This year, it was “explore the issue you most want the president and new Congress to address in 2021.” View her entry, along with 150 other winners, at www.studentcam.org.

TWO NORTH EAST INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT STUDENTS’ ARTWORK recently went on display at Gov. Greg Abbott’s business office in Austin for a year. His wife, Cecilia, selected original pieces from Ashton Kordas and Pedro Diaz of Reagan and Johnson high schools, respectively. Due to the pandemic, the annual announcement was made virtually in lieu of the awards 602 N.W. Loop 410, Suite 130 ceremony usually hosted at the Bob

APRIL 13 - MAY 11, 2021

LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS

Bullock Texas State History Museum, and was presented by the Texas Art Education Association in conjunction with Youth Art Month.

SCIENCE COACH JESSICA BUCHANAN RECENTLY FOUND a unique way to teach astronomy at Harmony Hills Elementary School, officials said. The North East Independent School District educator used a projector to create an interactive star-lab dome, which brought the solar system, stars and constellations to life.

CONGREGATION AGUDAS ACHIM RECENTLY named a classroom for longtime member and educator Michele Leverant. The posthumous honor was made possible by a gift from her LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM

husband, Gerald. Michele Leverant taught at the Winston School in San Antonio. Afterward, she joined the Defense Language Institute English Language Center where she taught English to visiting foreign armedservices officers, and volunteered with the Jewish Federation of San Antonio’s Jewish Coalition for Literacy.

ANTONIAN COLLEGE PREPARATORY HIGH SCHOOL’S BOYS basketball team won their second state Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools’ 6A crown in three years with a 73-57 win over Dallas Bishop Lynch in the March 12 championship game at A&M Consolidated High School.

Senior guard Gavino Ramos led

LOWDOWN

the way with 27 points, followed by sophomore guard Santiago Ochoa’s 18 points.

GOV. GREG ABBOTT RECENTLY REAPPOINTED SHAVANO PARK RESIDENT Steven Fleming to the Texas Board of Professional Geoscientists. Fleming is a licensed geoscientist and director of risk and compliance for construction firm Talon LPE. He also volunteers on the Water Advisory Board for Shavano Park.

THE SHELDON VEXLER THEATRE AT THE BARSHOP Jewish Community Center, shuttered since the COVID-19 outbreak last spring, remains closed indefinitely, venue operators told season-pass holders in March.

9

According to media reports, keeping The Vex dark was a business decision.

Upon reopening, safety measures will be in place, alongside previously planned renovations, officials said.

SHAVANO PARK LEADERS RECENTLY HONORED Zina Tedford, who had served as city secretary since 2013.

She now holds the same position in Castle Hills.

ON FEBRUARY’S NATIONAL SIGNING DAY, NUMEROUS AREA HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT-ATHLETES formally committed to continuing their sporting careers in college. Football — El-Amin Bawa, Johnson, Eastern LOWDOWN continues on pg. 19

10

LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS

DECISION 2021

APRIL 13 - MAY 11, 2021

CANDIDATES continues from pg. 01

Brockhouse, whom Nirenberg beat in a 2019 runoff election, headline a 14-candidate mayoral contest.

Nirenberg’s priorities include affordable housing and workforce development, plus ensuring the community’s COVID-19 response and recovery is equitable.

“As national leaders call for unity, in San Antonio we’re looking out for one another, lifting each other up, and working together to come back stronger than ever,” he said.

Brockhouse, a mortgage banker, is focusing on job creation and postpandemic economic recovery, plus strengthening police and other first responders.

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“We’re bringing new energy, bold ideas and real urgency to make San Antonio the jobs capital of Texas for all of our families,” he said.

Other hopefuls are Gary Allen, Tim Atwood, Ray Basaldua, Antonio “Tony” Diaz, Joshua James Galvan, Denise Gutierrez-Homer, Michael “Commander” Idrogo, Justin Macaluso, Dan Martinez, Jacq’ue Laurel “J.” Miller, Frank Adam Muniz and John Velasquez.

Councilman Manny Peláez’s bid for a third term in District 8 drew opposition from audio/visual technician Cesario Garcia, real estate broker Rob Rodriguez, Valero Energy Corp. pricing specialist Suzanne McCarty and registered nurse Tammy K. Orta.

Peláez is campaigning for more pandemic-recovery relief, modernizing

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infrastructure and expanding green spaces.

“We’ve been through a lot in our city over the past year and it’s time to focus on recovery efforts and look ahead to a more resilient future,” he said.

Rodriguez chaired the city’s Planning Commission, and served on other city panels, plus real estate industry and civic group boards.

“San Antonio is facing some trying times, and I feel that elected office is where I can best utilize my experience in job creation, public service and leadership,” he said.

Two-term District 9 Councilman John Courage has three foes: college student Antonio Salinas, attorney Erika Moe, and Patrick Von Dohlen, a financial planner and previous candidate.

Cory Dennington left the race.

An Air Force veteran, former teacher, and real estate broker, Courage backs bringing more employers to District 9, improving Sonterra Boulevard at Loop 1604, and overseeing development of 2022 bond proposals.

“While we have accomplished so much, there is still much work to be done,” he said.

Salinas, Moe and Von Dohlen all support fiscal conservatism at City Hall. The latter pair also advocates strengthening first responders.

“I will fight to ensure we balance our budget and make efficient use of our available resources to lower taxes while doing better for San Antonio residents,” Moe said.

Army Reserve officer Gabrien Gregory, Administrative Law Judge Ezra Johnson, grassroots activist Emily Norwood, and educator Alexander Svehla oppose District 10 Councilman Clayton Perry’s shot at a third term.

Perry, who beat Johnson in a 2017 runoff, vows to maintain a focus on getting more pandemicrecovery monies to small businesses, property-tax relief, and ensuring basic city services are adequately funded.

“I will always ask you what you need, rather than tell you what I think you need,” he said.

A Churchill High School alumni and Encino Park-area resident, Svehla also is a social worker and children’s advocate.

His priorities include further pandemic recovery for residents and businesses, property-tax relief, and mental-health professionals helping police respond to people in crisis.

“I believe that I will represent the values, goals, ideals and desires of District 10 better than any candidate,” Svehla said.

San Antonio also proposes two city charter amendments.

One would repeal police officers’ collective bargaining rights, a goal for reformers.

The second lets the municipality issue bonds for permanent public improvements, such as building affordable housing, or others not prohibited by the Texas Constitution.

Early voting is 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

April 19-23 and 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

April 24 and 26-27. Locations include Cody Branch Library, 11441 Vance Jackson Road; Encino Branch Library, 2515 E. Evans Road; Parman Branch Library, 20735 Wilderness Oak Road; Castle Hills City Hall, 209 Lemonwood Drive; and Shavano Park City Hall, 900 Saddletree Court. eortiz@localcommunitynews.com Find this story and more at www. localcommunitynews.com.

APRIL 13 - MAY 11, 2021

LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS

HAPPENING continues from pg. 07

MAY 8

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

MAY 13

BEXAR COUNTY MASTER GARDENERS The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Office, 3355 Cherry Ridge Drive, Suite 208, holds a monthly board meeting from 1-3 p.m. for members. Contact Lynn Cox one day in advance to observe sessions, possibly over videoconferencing, due to COVID-19. For registration, updates or cancellations, email president@bexarmg.org or visit https:// bexarmg.org/.

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 welcome to audition. For updates or cancellations, visit sachordsmen.org. Meantime, 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.

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 or cancellations, call Carolyn at 210-4150937.

FRIDAYS

LOCAL PRODUCE Drop by St. Matthew Sports Complex &

HAPPENING

11

Recreational Area, 11121 Wurzbach Road, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. as the San Antonio Farmer’s Market Association presents farmfresh fare.

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 or cancellations, 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.

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, updates or cancellations, call Isabel Resendez at 210-302-6860 or email resendezi@jcc-sa.org.

ELSEWHERE IN SAN ANTONIO

MAY 6

THREE CONVENIENT CAMPUSES SERVING SAN ANTONIO I

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

HUNGRY FOR A CAUSE Habitat for Humanity of San Antonio will present "Taste of Home Benefit: A Toast for 45 Years" featuring local chefs, area celebrities, music, silent auction, and more. While the 6:30-7:30 p.m. virtual event is free to view at https:// www.HabitatSA.org/TasteofHome, call Bethany Thomas at 210-223-5203, ext.

148 or email Partner@HabitatSA.org for updates, cancellations, sponsorship, or crowdfunding opportunities.

GROWIN

G FRUITFUL CHILDREN

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LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS

SPECIAL SECTION HOME & GARDEN

APRIL 13 – MAY 11, 2021

Spring maintenance checklist for homeowners SPECIAL TO LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS

• Mow the lawn. Trim the edges.

• After the next rainfall, inspect your yard for standing water, which can damage your home and invite mosquitoes.

Consider hiring a landscaper to level out an uneven lawn.

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• Get your patio or deck in tip-top shape

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• Inspect lawn equipment and tools for needed maintenance, repair and fuel refills.

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• Change HVAC filters at least once each season (ideally monthly). Dirty filters make equipment work harder and cause more wear and tear on equipment. They also increase your energy bill and lessen indoor air quality.

• According to Energy Star, 20% to 30% of the air that moves through the duct system of a typical home is lost due to leaks, holes and poorly connected ducts.

Consider professional duct sealing for improved energy efficiency and lower bills.

• Check to see whether your furnaces and air conditioners bear the Energy Star logo. If not, consider a new unit.

A properly-sized and installed Energy Star air conditioner uses up to 20% less electricity than older models, and doing so may make you eligible for a federal tax credit.

• Have a technician give your home’s cooling system a preseason tune-up so that everything is running efficiently by the time warmer weather arrives. You know the “personality” of your heating or cooling unit best, so be prepared to provide the technician with important information. No fact is insignificant, as it may help them diagnose and fix a problem.

• Be sure that all HVAC installation and maintenance is performed only by a qualified professional. Read company reviews and ask the contractor if they have technicians certified by North American Technician Excellence. NATEcertified technicians have demonstrated knowledge of today’s increasingly sophisticated heating and cooling systems. To find a NATE-certified technician in your area, visit Natex.org.

SAFETY • Carbon monoxide, often referred to as the “silent killer,” is odorless, colorless and tasteless. Protect your family by changing the batteries on your carbon monoxide detectors and ensuring you have a detector on each level of your home. When changing a furnace filter, make sure the new filter is correctly positioned and the access panel is securely fastened. Have your home’s furnace inspected and serviced annually by a NATEcertified technician.

• Likewise, test all the smoke alarms in your home and replace batteries as needed. The National Fire Protection Association recommends smoke alarms on every level of the home, including every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area.

A little seasonal maintenance can go a long way to a safer, more beautiful and more eco-friendly home.

APRIL 13 - MAY 11, 2021

LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS

SPECIAL SECTION HOME & GARDEN

and zoysia grass,” said Chrissie Segars, an AgriLife Extension turfgrass specialist in Dallas.

WINTER INJURY OF WARM-SEASON TURF Winter injury of warm-season turfgrasses may arise due to numerous factors, including direct low-temperature kill or freeze injury, suffocation under prolonged ice cover, frost injury and desiccation during windy, dry conditions, said Ben Wherley, AgriLife Research turfgrass ecologist in the Texas A&M University Department of Soil and Crop Sciences, College Station.

Of these, freezing injury due to exposure to prolonged low temperatures would be the greatest

It's that time of year to start sprucing up your home and do some spring cleaning. Oranat Taesuwan / iStock via Getty Images Plus

Turfgrass response to winter fury may take weeks to determine

13

risk to grasses during an extended deep freeze like the recent episode, Wherley said. Although all warm-season grasses have some degree of built-in winter dormancy mechanisms, their relative tolerance to subfreezing temperatures goes only so far and varies depending on the species and cultivar.

In general, he said, buffalo grasses possess superior low-temperature tolerance. Zoysia grasses possess the next best cold tolerance, with cultivars such as Meyer being grown as far north as southern Indiana and Ohio.

Although Bermuda grass cultivars with enhanced cold tolerance have been developed in recent years, such as Latitude 36 and Northbridge, they WINTER continues on pg. 14

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MANY TEXANS are wondering how their turfgrass will respond this spring after Mother Nature unleashed the recent arctic snap across southern regions unaccustomed to such freezing temperatures.

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WINTER continues from pg. 13

generally possess moderate cold tolerance.

Among the warm-season grasses, centipede grass, seashore paspalum, St. Augustine grass and ultra-dwarf Bermuda grasses, typically used on putting greens, all possess the least cold tolerance and are those of most concern.

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So, what’s the difference between species or cultivars with high and low freezing resistance? The answer lies in a grass species’ ability to “harden-off” or acclimate during the fall months, as temperatures begin to drop going into winter, Wherley said.

During the acclimation process, freezeresistant plants begin to dehydrate their cells by accumulating solutes, including sugars and ions such as potassium within the cell, which act in a similar way to antifreeze, he said.

“This is one of the major reasons we apply late-season applications of potassium to warm-season turf,” Wherley

said.

Freezing injury, therefore, is most common in plants that have not acclimated, or are unable to acclimate to low temperatures, leading to ice formation within the cell and subsequent rupture of cellular contents, he said.

Numerous other stresses may also set the plant up for greater risk, including shade, traffic, drainage issues, direction of slope and soil compaction, Segars said.

When assessing the potential for low-temperature injury, focus on temperatures at or near the soil surface combined with the duration of the subfreezing exposure.

“In the absence of snow, ambient air temperatures may be a good means of estimating soil surface temperatures,” she said. “However, if snow is present, as was the case with the recent cold snap, it insulates the turf, creating a physical barrier to heat loss which often keeps the turf near or even above freezing.”

Turfgrass survival and recovery would seem very bleak were it not for

Expect some damage to turf from the historic February winter storm, but snowfall may have saved many grasses. Courtesy photo/Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service

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the timely snowfall that occurred and insulated the ground through most of the extreme cold.

“While it’s likely that spring greenup may be delayed in many areas and stands may be thinner than usual, we are cautiously optimistic that we will see favorable spring recovery of warm-season turf stands across much of South Central Texas,” she said.

FERTILITY AND HERBICIDE STRATEGIES When a period of potential winter stress or injury occurs, there are some further considerations for input use during the spring transition period.

“Often, periods of potential winter injury occur during contemplations for spring fertilizer and herbicide use,” Segars said. “The extent of winter injury may be unknown at this time. During the period of the unknown, it is recommended not to rush applications of fertilizer or herbicides and to avoid, if able, applications of selective herbicides to areas that have potentially been weakened by winter injury.”

Wherley said this is also a great time to consider taking a soil test.

“It is our recommendation to hold off on the addition of fertilizers until potential winter damage can be assessed,” Segars said. “This will allow proper applications of nutrients that can be taken up by actively growing plants and will not be lost to the environment. Once turfgrass begins actively growing, the addition of fertilizer will aid in recovery. Once temperatures are conducive, spoon-feeding with frequent, lower rates of complete fertilizer may be needed to encourage recovery of thin or damaged areas.”

Another consideration is foregoing the application of preemergence products during the spring transition period in areas where winter injury is suspected and wait until full spring green-up has occurred.

15

Diagnosing potential winter-kill Services include

THERE ARE A FEW STEPS THAT YOU CAN TAKE RIGHT NOW TO ASSESS THE POTENTIAL FOR WINTER-KILL IN YOUR TURFGRASS AREAS.

STEP

1

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STEP

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STEP

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• Lawn Maintenance • Pressure Washing • Gutter Cleaning • Window Cleaning • Sod

Collect turfgrass plugs from suspected lowtemperature damaged areas.

Place the turfgrass plug in a container that contains native soil or sand similar to that used in the root zone.

Place the container in a sunny location such as a southern-facing window indoors or greenhouse.

Keep plugs adequately watered.

Growth/greening should begin in seven to 10 days.

Assess the crown region for signs of green leaf tissue and overall green coverage after plugs have grown for two to three weeks.

You may choose to repeat the sampling procedure on a 14-to-21-day interval during periods of cold weather.

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LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS

DECISION 2021

APRIL 13 - MAY 11, 2021

NISD races draw several candidates from STAFF REPORTS

ONE SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER faces a challenger while four aspiring trustees are jockeying for an open seat in Northside Independent School District races.

District 5 trustee Katie Reed is retiring after 30-plus years on the school board.

Contenders are Irma Iris Duran de Rodriguez, senior housing policy coordinator for the city; educator Jakub Kosiba; and two retired NISD educators and administrators, Sharon Chumley and Corinne Saldaña.

A Clark High School alumna, Duran de Rodriguez has served with the Northside Educational Improvement Council and NISD PTA Council Arts in Education Committee.

Her campaign themes are ensuring all campuses receive infrastructure improvements, technology and top-tier instructors, and strengthening students’ mental-health services.

She also calls for reinforcing mentorship programs, and promoting

“community engagement and uniform messaging across schools to increase transparency and trust.”

A digital marketing director, Kosiba advocates greater participation by faculty, students and residents in the educational process.

“It’s time for everyone to stand up for the future of children,” he said.

Saldaña volunteers at University United Methodist Church.

“I would promote excellence in education, fairness in all aspects of education, and innovation to continue improving our services,” she added.

Thomas Leger opposes District 6 trustee Carol Harle’s run for a third term.

Harle’s educational resumé includes instructor at the University of Texas at San Antonio, consultant/ instructional coach for CAST Schools, and NISD teacher and administrator.

Her goals include targeting students’ learning gaps caused by the pandemic, enhancing socialemotional learning, wraparound

services, mental-health care and other existing programs, plus improving facilities.

Leger wants on-campus licensed social workers, career and college counselors in high schools, plus enhanced employee pay and representation.

“We place a tremendous amount of responsibility for our students’ wellbeing in the hands of our employees, and it’s time their compensation matched that level of trust,” he added.

Early voting is 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

April 19-23 and 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

April 24 and 26-27. Locations include Cody Branch Library, 11441 Vance Jackson Road; Encino Branch Library, 2515 E. Evans Road; Parman Branch Library at Stone Oak, 20735 Wilderness Oak St.; Castle Hills City Hall, 209 Lemonwood Drive; and Shavano Park City Hall, 900 Saddletree Court. eortiz@localcommunitynews.com Find this story and more at www. localcommunitynews.com.

VOTING continues from pg. 01

funding sources to help improve roads and drainage.

Bernard Juettemeyer II, a previous mayoral and council candidate, opposes attorney and Place 3 Alderman Kurt May’s second-term bid.

The incumbent vows to address economic development, expand the city’s public spaces, and adequately fund deferred maintenance and street repairs.

“I look forward to continued service to the citizens of Castle Hills,” May added.

Juettemeyer has served with local civic groups and panels such as the Castle Hills Community Organization and the Parks Commission.

The stay-at-home dad and former business owner wants greater police presence and maintaining a family-oriented atmosphere.

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Mayor JR Treviño’s bid for a second term drew no rivals, but Tyler Smith challenges Place 2 Alderman Frank Paul.

A plumber from a family of plumbers, Smith wants to expand the Police Department, keep open the Honeysuckle Road/Loop 410 intersection as a vital, pedestrian-friendly pathway, and maintain the city’s wooded atmosphere.

“I would like to see this tradition of small-town friendliness and hospitality continue to grow here,” he added.

Paul was appointed in April 2020 to fill Mark Sanderson’s unexpired term.

He supports fiscal conservatism, responsive and efficient city services, a business-friendly climate, and alternate

APRIL 13 - MAY 11, 2021

LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS

“I am always here to listen to the great ideas of our exceptional residents of Castle Hills,” he added.

HOLLYWOOD PARK Mayor Chris Murphy resigned in March because new rules for his federal contractor job preclude employees from holding public office.

On March 16, the council unanimously voted to appoint two-term Place 3 Councilman Oscar Villarreal Jr. to the mayor's position until the May 2022 election.

Physician assistant Michael Voorhies, now unopposed, was to have faced Villarreal.

An Army veteran, Voorhies worked as a State Department medical officer overseas. He volunteers and raises funds for local veterans groups and initiatives.

Sean Moore and Delizia Gallivan seek to succeed outgoing Place 1 Councilman Michael Howe.

A development executive, Moore wants to help protect and enhance the city’s public services, plus maintain fiscal responsibility.

Gallivan, a church volunteer and Hollywood Park Community Association member, hopes to apply her experiences as a registered nurse and health care manager-consultant to researching issues and rendering informed, fact-based decisions.

“If I am elected, my primary focus will be service and commitment to our community with no hidden agenda,” she added.

Homemaker and HPCA member Glenna Pearce opposes attorney and Place 5 Councilman Paul Homburg III. Previously a three-year council member, Homburg was appointed in 2020 to replace Scott Bailey. He said City Hall should adequately equip its first responders, and responsibly allocate its limited resources for the municipality’s long-term good.

“The town exists to serve the citizens, all the citizens, and our resources should not be focused on serving any particular interest group,” he added.

Pearce, a church leader and former teacher, touts more dialogue and collaboration among

DECISION 2021

17

city officials, residents and other neighbors.

SHAVANO PARK Mayor Bob Werner’s bid for a fourth term drew challenges from his predecessor, former Mayor David Marne, and previous council candidate M.J. Smoot.

A former councilman and Planning and Zoning chairman, Werner supports prioritizing long-range planning, quality city services, involvement in the Northwest Military Highway expansion, infrastructure betterments and communication with residents.

He also plans to propose a children’s public splash pad, and enhancing nature trails.

“These areas are each parts of the continuing long-term plan, and each is essential to the continued enhancement of our community,” he added.

Marne, a real estate broker, bases his candidacy upon his past mayoral record, which includes lowering taxes and expanding city services, with an eye toward what he could achieve if returned to public office.

“I’m not running against anyone. I’m running for the city,” Marne added.

Smoot has 40 years of corporate experience, 30 of those with the former Southwestern Bell. She also served on the city’s Tree Committee.

Her campaign themes are: tax relief; improving road, utility and digital/ communications infrastructure; enhancing city services and budget efficiency; plus creating an Emergency Preparedness Committee.

“I think it’s time for a remodel of our city government,” she added.

Alderwoman Michele Bunting Ross, Planning and Zoning Commissioner Albert Aleman, and retired engineer Pete Miller filed for two at-large council seats.

Alderman Mike Colemere declined another run.

VOTING continues on pg. 19 LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM

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LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS

EDUCATION

APRIL 13 - MAY 11, 2021

Johnson student’s app makes healthy dining fun

by EDMOND ORTIZ

A JOHNSON HIGH SCHOOL student is trying to make healthy dining fun by creating an app featuring low-cost, easy-to-make recipes.

Senior Isabella Jimenez, 17, launched My Fun Food in December 2020. Available for free in the Apple Store, it contains dietitian-approved recipes, plus food-related interactive games and trivia questions.

Jimenez was a 12-year-old student ambassador with the Mayor’s Fitness Council when she heard nutritionist Jan Tilley speak about her work and

cookbook, “Healthy Meals for Hurried Families.”

Determined to undertake a communityservice project, Jimenez thought about writing a digest filled with good-for-you

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The idea shifted into application software Jimenez could update with new creations geared toward children and teenagers.

“I thought an app would be more convenient than a cookbook,” she said.

Healthier dining has been personal for Jimenez for another reason. A competitive swimmer, she wondered why she’d gain weight despite her workout regimen.

“I didn’t have a good take on my diet,” Jimenez said. She later learned the difference between good and bad calories.

A physician also told her she had a diabetic precursor. Jimenez changed what she consumed, starting with offerings from Tilley’s book.

“It helped me to gain control of what I was putting into my body,” she said.

Inspired, Jimenez turned to her family and the Mayor’s Fitness Council — formed to reduce San Antonio obesity — for guidance and resources.

Jimenez’s mother, Mary, introduced her daughter to CEO Chris Turner of local company Turner Logic for app development.

With Tilley and Turner’s assistance, Jimenez pitched the technology to organizations such as the San Antonio Metropolitan Health District and the San Antonio Food Bank.

She explained the app could especially aid families in food deserts, where access to affordable, healthy meal choices are lacking.

It took more than two years to raise enough cash to begin the development phase, which Turner estimated totaled $30,000.

With the businessman’s help, she deferred some preliminary costs by

using the program InVision for predesign and visual layout.

A nonprofit foundation tied to Jimenez’s elementary/middle school, Montessori School of San Antonio, liked her project so much it became a donor. Turner also made an inkind contribution.

Jimenez has seen positive responses from users, plus groups similarly interested in raising awareness of healthier habits.

Aside from Tilley’s recipes, the app now includes those by H-E-B partners and the public. Submissions can be offered at myfunfood2020@ gmail.com.

“They say it’s simple, easy to use and well-organized,” she added.

Based on feedback, Jimenez now looks to upgrade the app with Android and Spanish-speaking versions, plus a grocery-list option.

ThriveWell Cancer Foundation also asked her to incorporate recipes related to the disease.

The nonprofit It’s Time Texas, which informs Texans to lead healthier lives, urged Jimenez to form separate advisory boards consisting of health care professionals and youths.

Mary Jimenez is proud her daughter took the initiative to build a device that aids the greater good.

“She’s had a lot of support from me, my husband, and my family. But, also, the city has gotten behind her in an amazing way,” she said.

The Jimenez family hopes publicizing the app will lure more backers to fund further development.

“The goal has always been to reach as many people in the community as possible,” the teen added. eortiz@localcommunitynews.com Find this story and more at www. localcommunitynews.com.

APRIL 13 - MAY 11, 2021

LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS

LOWDOWN continues from pg. 09

LOWDOWN/DECISION 2021

England; and Gavin Seesholtz, LEE, Concordia. Women’s soccer — Kate Benne, Reagan, Tusculum University; Callie Brame, Churchill, St. Mary’s; Kala Davis, Reagan, Central Methodist; Jenevieve Jackson, LEE, Rice; Reese Keller, Johnson, Louisiana-Lafayette; Lauren Nylund, Clark, Missouri Western; Lyndee Rheinberger, Churchill, Our Lady of the Lake; Breana Trevino, Clark, Southwestern; and Isela Zertuche, LEE, St. Mary’s. Volleyball/beach volleyball — Arden Cantwell, Johnson, OLLU. Softball — Hailey Hernandez, Johnson, Texas Wesleyan; and Ajah Jackson, Reagan, Texas Wesleyan. Women’s track and field/cross-country — Madeline McElroy, Reagan, Texas Tech.

Find LOCAL Lowdown at www. localcommunitynews.com.

New Mexico; Kisen Escamilla, Johnson, McMurry; Jacen Foster, Clark, Crown College; Alec Gonzales, Johnson, Aurora College; Spencer Hawthorn, Johnson, St. Anselm College; Will Huntsinger, Johnson, Stephen F. Austin; Shane Johnson, Johnson, Sam Houston State; and Ty Reasoner, Johnson, Air Force Academy. Baseball — Hogan Heller, Reagan, Temple College. Women’s golf — Olivia Anderson, Churchill, Queens University; Kalyn Otten, Johnson, HardinSimmons; and Maria Ramirez, Johnson, UT-Rio Grande Valley. Men’s soccer — Joey Batrouni, LEE, Coastal Carolina; Fabrizio Bernal, Reagan, Xavier; Henry Bowland, LEE, Coastal Carolina; Samuel Moore, Johnson, Chester University in

VOTING continues from pg. 17

19

feel of the community and the atmosphere that has attracted homeowners to our city,” he said.

Miller offered his technical and managerial expertise to help address long-range city planning, better local parks and trails, and risk management.

“I thought I saw some skill sets missing on the council that I could bring to it,” he said.

Early voting is 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. April 19-23 and 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. April 24 and 26-27.

Locations include Castle Hills City Hall, 209 Lemonwood Drive; Shavano Park City Hall, 900 Saddletree Court; Cody Branch Library, 11441 Vance Jackson Road; Encino Branch Library, 2515 E. Evans Road; and Parman Branch Library, 20735 Wilderness Oak Road. eortiz@localcommunitynews.com Find this story and more at www. localcommunitynews.com.

Seeking a sixth term, Ross has been active with town commissions and committees, plus local civic and industry groups.

Her priorities are keeping high levels of city services and quality of life, tree protection, low taxes, commercial growth, plus balancing private-property rights with comprehensive code enforcement.

“As a real estate broker, I have unique experience that allows me to serve all areas of the city, understanding the needs of homeowners associations and non-HOA areas,” Ross added.

Aleman is a business consultant and former Housing Authority of Bexar County executive director.

“My priority issues for the city of Shavano Park would be keeping and maintaining the

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