LOCAL LOWDOWN | PG. 06
LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM
BURGER BOY COMING TO THE SOUTH SIDE
VOL. 2, ISSUE 2 | APRIL 6 - MAY 4, 2021
LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS SOUTH SAN ANTONIO
SUSAN YERKES | PG. 04
HAPPENING LOCAL | PG. 03
THE LESSONS THE GOOD KIND OF HISTORY MAKERS MARKET COMMUNITY | PG. 15
PANTRY OFFERS NEIGHBORHOOD RESOURCE
Mayor,council races on May 1 ballot Learning lessons from weather emergency by EDMOND ORTIZ
District 5 City Council candidate Marie Crabb (center) block-walks with campaign volunteers in the Lone Star neighborhood. Courtesy photo/Marie Crabb
SOUTH SIDE VOTERS May 1 will consider a full slate of mayoral and City Council candidates, and two proposed City Charter changes.
Two-term Mayor Ron Nirenberg and former District 6 Councilman Greg Brockhouse, whom Nirenberg beat in a 2019 runoff election, headline a 14-contender field for the top spot. Nirenberg’s priorities include affordable housing and workforce development, plus ensuring that 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, post-pandemic economic recovery, and strengthening police and other first responders. “We’re bringing new energy, bold ELECTIONS continues on pg. 12
COMMUNITIES RECOVER FROM WINTRY BLAST by EDMOND ORTIZ
FOLLOWING A HISTORIC WINTER STORM, relief programs have emerged as officials assess what responses worked and which ones didn’t during the emergency and its aftermath.
Hundreds of thousands of CPS Energy customers endured rotating or prolonged power outages for several days of subfreezing temperatures. The DISASTER continues on pg. 14
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ON THE COVER – The Common Market Co-op assembled emergency food boxes for South Siders to pick up at Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 8397 on Feb. 26 in the aftermath of a major winter storm that crippled most of Texas and left millions without heat or water for days. Several deaths also occurred across the state. See the story on pg. 01. Courtesy photo/Councilwoman Shirley Gonzales The LOCAL Community News editorial board includes Jaselle Luna and Thomas Edwards.
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.
APRIL 6 - MAY 4, 2021
APRIL
PLAN YOUR MONTH WITH OUR CALENDAR OF UPCOMING EVENTS IN THE COMMUNITY.
HAPPENING
LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS
APRIL 6, 20 & MAY 4
APRIL 10
The Rotary Club of San Antonio South normally meets at noon on the second floor of Stinson Municipal Airport, 8535 Mission Road. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, sessions may take place over Zoom. For updates or cancellations, visit https:// portal.clubrunner.ca/8149.
While supplies last, Blue Star Contemporary, 116 Blue Star St., holds a “Family Saturday Art Kit Pick Up” from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Activities are for ages 5-9. For more, visit www.bluestarcontemporary.org.
ROTARY CLUB
APRIL 8
NETWORKING BREAKFAST The South San Antonio Chamber of Commerce holds a networking breakfast at 7:30 a.m. at Don Pedro Mexican Restaurant, 1526 S.W. Military Drive. Cost is $15 for members, $20 for nonmembers. For updates or cancellations, visit https://www. southsachamber.org/ or call Jessica Furdock at 210-533-1600.
ART FOR KIDS
APRIL 10 & MAY 1
SOUTHTOWN ART FANS Southtown Arts District First and Second Saturday Markets are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at The Artisan, 1103A S. Presa St. For more,
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email shop@theartisansatx.com or call 210-962-5560.
APRIL 10
‘THE PEOPLE’S CLINIC’ The Estela Avery Education Center inside Confluence Park, 310 W. Mitchell St., holds traditional healing practices from 1-5 p.m. For more, visit https://www.facebook.com/ YanawanaHerbolarios/. HAPPENING continues on pg. 08
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.
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OPINION
LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS APRIL 6 - MAY 4, 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
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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.
OUR FIGHT AGAINST COVID-19 IS NOT OVER. Let’s continue to look out for each other.
Wear Your Mask
Social Distance
Wash Your Hands
Get Vaccinated
#DoItForSA
covid19.sanantonio.gov
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LOWDOWN
LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS APRIL 6 - MAY 4, 2021
TAKE A QUICK LOOK AT WHAT’S NEW IN THE COMMUNITY FROM OPENINGS AND CLOSINGS TO NEWS TIDBITS.
Open and Opening Soon SHIFU NOODLE, 3850 S. New Braunfels Ave., Suite 109 in McCreless Market, offers Chinese fare including twice-cooked pork belly, Dan Dan noodles, spicy and savory chicken, plus green beans. Hours are 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 3:30-8 p.m. Monday and Wednesday through Saturday, plus noon to 2:30 p.m. and 3:30-8 p.m. Sunday. For more, call 210-8881228 or visit www.facebook.com/shifunoodle/.
BURGER BOY, 4402 S. New Braunfels Ave., Local VIPs attended the groundbreaking March 3 for Southlake, a new development by Terramark Urban Homes on the Brooks campus. It will span more than 5 acres at the former Air Force base and feature 60 homes. It’s touted as the first for-sale, single-family home development at Brooks. Courtesy photo/Councilwoman Rebecca Viagran
plans to open an eatery at this space soon, according to the company. “Since the announcement of our third location two years ago, our social-media fan base has been calling for a Burger Boy on the South Side,” co-owner Bryce Pohlmeier said. It’ll be the fifth restaurant in the chain. The site’s existing building will be demolished, with its replacement designed like the Burger Boy at Shaenfield Road and Loop 1604 on the Northwest Side. Hours of operation are to be determined.
DISTRICT 3 COUNCILWOMAN REBECCA VIAGRAN
IN OTHER NEWS:
A RECENT GROUNDBREAKING FOR BROOKS’ first for-sale, single-family home development at Southlake included dignitaries such as District 3 Councilwoman Rebecca Viagran. Terramark Urban Homes launched the effort. “This … is a response to many of our community members asking for this type of product. We are proud to deliver and lead the way,” Viagran said.
THE CITY COUNCIL ON MARCH 4 APPROVED A CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT to expand the Salado Creek Hike and Bike Trail System from Southside Lions Park to Southeast Military Drive. The extension includes a trailhead with parking, three pedestrian bridges, several drainage culverts, retaining walls, rest nodes, signage and other amenities. The Tree Canopy Preservation and Mitigation Fund will be used for tree plantings around the entryway and supporting irrigation. “This is a project we have been working on for a long time. We are very proud to continue to extend the Salado Creek Hike and Bike Trail for the residents of District 3,” Councilwoman Rebecca Viagran said.
KINGSBOROUGH MIDDLE SCHOOL EDUCATOR ANNIE ZOLL OF THE HARLANDALE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT recently received one of HISD’s Teacher of the Year awards. The district bestowed the honor during a virtual ceremony. Zoll also received a commendation from a local television station March 11.
WILLIE BURROUGHS, CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER AT THE SAN ANTONIO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT, was recently selected by d-mars.com as one of the Top 50 Professionals and
Entrepreneurs in Texas. The yearly recognition program highlights individuals who have made significant achievements in their industry and state. Burroughs, and other awardees, were nominated and voted on by peers and community leaders. “As someone who leads with compassion and integrity … I am humbled and honored to be recognized for my contributions,” Burroughs said in a statement. At SAISD, he manages more than 1,600 employees, and is responsible for the maintenance, rehabilitation and construction of more than 10 million square feet of educational and administrative office space.
THE SOUTHSIDE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT WILL CONTINUE with masks, social distancing and safety protocols already in place for months with the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic. “Nothing has changed for our school district,” Superintendent Rolando Ramirez said. Gov. Greg Abbott ended a statewide mask mandate March 10. School boards, however, have the authority to determine local policies, according to the Texas Education Agency.
DISTRICT 3 COUNCILWOMAN REBECCA VIAGRAN and volunteers partnered with the San Antonio Food Bank to help hundreds of families in need on Feb. 23 following a severe winter storm, which left many without water or power for days. Supplies for meals and water were distributed at Brooks. “Food insecurity has been on the rise with COVID-19 and now with the winter storm, our community needs help more than ever,” Viagran said. Find LOCAL Lowdown at www. localcommunitynews.com.
S Zarzamora St
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LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS
HAPPENING
APRIL 6 - MAY 4, 2021
HAPPENING continues from pg. 03
APRIL 12
SAISD BOARD MEETING San Antonio Independent School District trustees meet at 5:30 p.m. at 406 Barrera St., or over Zoom during the COVID-19 pandemic. For updates or cancellations, visit www. saisd.net.
APRIL 15
SOUTHSIDE ISD BOARD MEETING Trustees meet at 6 p.m. at 1460 Martinez Losoya Road. For updates or cancellations, visit https:// southsideisd.org/.
APRIL 15
STROKE SUPPORT A stroke support group that meets from 2-3 p.m. at Southwest General Hospital, Classroom A, 7400 Barlite Blvd., aims to help stroke survivors, their families and caregivers. For updates, cancellations and RSVP, call 1-877-215-9355.
APRIL 17
CALLING ALL SHOPPERS A farmers’ and artisans’ market begins at 9 a.m. at Mission Marquee Plaza, 3100 Roosevelt Ave. For updates or cancellations, call 210207-3905 or visit https://www. missionmarquee.com/EVENTS/ Farmers-Artisan-Markets.
APRIL 17 & MAY 1 YOGA AT THE MISSION
Mission San José, 701 E. Pyron Ave., is the site of a free, one-hour community yoga session at 10 a.m. First and third Saturdys of the month, meet outdoors in front of the church or inside the granary during inclement weather. For updates or cancellations, call 210-932-1001.
APRIL 20
THROUGH JUNE 1
Due to COVID-19 concerns, trustees will meet at 6:15 p.m. over Zoom. For a link, updates or cancellations, visit www.harlandale.net.
San Antonio, Harlandale and Southside independent school district campuses are closed for a holiday.
Tykes to teens ages 1-18 receive free snacks and suppers from 4:30-6 p.m. weekdays at the Southside Lions Community Center, 3100 Hiawatha St. For more, visit https:// www.sanantonio.gov/ParksAndRec/ News-Events/Events/Event-Details/ ArtMID/15385/ArticleID/20085/ Free-Supper-Snack-Drive-ThruService?Park=&Facility=.
APRIL 24
THROUGH JUNE 13
The Greenline, 2532 Sidney Brooks Drive, hosts free Zumba classes from 9-9:45 a.m.. Bring a water bottle and towel. For updates or cancellations, visit www.livebrooks.com.
Pabst Blue Ribbon Studios, 1112 S. St. Mary’s St., hosts a display of select beer-can designs by 25 emerging artists, as part of the brewing company’s annual competition. The gallery is open from 4-10 p.m. for First Friday events, and noon to 6 p.m. on weekends. For updates, visit https://pabstblueribbon.com/blueribbon-studios.
Experience culture, art, education and more on the historic grounds of Mission Marquee Plaza, 3100 Roosevelt Ave. Also, the seasonal, outdoor film series returns from May to November. Movies begin 15 minutes after sundown. Bring lawn chairs and blankets. For more, visit https://www. missionmarquee.com/EVENTS/ Cultural-Community-Events.
WEDNESDAYS
ELSEWHERE IN SAN ANTONIO
In partnership with Slab Cinema, The Good Kind Southtown, 1127 S. St. Mary’s St., hosts physically distanced, open-air cinema. Upcoming foodie-friendly flicks include “Big Night” (April 7); “The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie” (April 14); “Eat Drink Man Woman” (April 21); and “I Am Love” (April 28). Films start at 7 p.m. Cost is $8. For titles, updates or cancellations, visit https://www.slabcinema.com or https://www.facebook.com/ goodkindsouthtown.
HUNGRY FOR A CAUSE
HARLANDALE ISD BOARD MEETING
APRIL 23
SCHOOL’S OUT
ZUMBA, ANYONE?
APRIL 25
OFF AND RUNNING Texas Hill Country Series: Siesta Half Marathon begins at 7:31 a.m. at Mission County Park, 6030 Padre Drive, which is also the starting point of a 10K and 5K, at 8:15 a.m. and 8:30 a.m., respectively. For updates, cancellations and registration, visit http://www.scallywompus.com/siestahalf-marathon/.
MAY 7
OUTDOOR CONCERT The Good Kind Southtown, 1127 S. St. Mary’s St., hosts Michael Martin & The Infidels from 8-11 p.m. as part of its First Friday music series. For updates or cancellations, visit https:// eatgoodkind.com/upcoming-events/.
THROUGH MAY 9
FOOD GIVEAWAY
BEER-CAN DESIGNS
OPEN-AIR CINEMA
TUMULTUOUS TIMES
SATURDAYS
Blue Star Contemporary, 116 Blue Star St., presents four exhibitions offering contemplation of today’s tumultuous times. Visit https:// bluestarcontemporary.org/.
The Good Kind Southtown, 1127 S. St. Mary’s St., hosts bazaars featuring local vendors from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For updates or cancellations,
MAKERS MARKET
visit https://eatgoodkind.com/ upcoming-events/.
SUNDAYS
YOGA CLASS Confluence Park, 310 W. Mitchell St., hosts free 10-11 a.m. yoga sessions. For more, visit https:// sariverfound.org/confluencepark/park-events/.
ONGOING
MISSION MARQUEE PLAZA
MAY 6
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 210-2235203, ext. 148 or email Partner@ HabitatSA.org for updates, cancellations, sponsorship, or crowdfunding opportunities.
SUBMITTING EVENTS: Email all the details along with your contact information two months in advance to tips@ localcommunitynews.com.
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LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS
DECISION 2021
APRIL 6 - MAY 4, 2021
HISD, SAISD trustees face election foes by EDMOND ORTIZ
HARLANDALE AND SAN ANTONIO independent school district trustees have drawn opponents in the May 1 elections, while other open seats are up for grabs.
HARLANDALE ISD Recent controversies surrounding administrators’ procurement practices, internal financial controls and work by a former contractor have resulted in a state-appointed conservator. Residents also mourned District 3 trustee Esequiel “Zeke” Mendoza, who died Feb. 21 at age 61. He spent 12 years on the school board. Retiree Lillian Zapata and educator Louie Luna filed for District 3, where Mendoza had sought reelection to another four-year term. Zapata was disqualified, however, after failing to meet voterregistration requirements, officials said. Luna has taught in HISD for 32 years. The former adjunct professor at Texas A&M University-San Antonio volunteers with COPS/Metro and the Harlandale Education Association. The instructor said he has the experience and insight to advocate for the school district, and to improve opportunities for pupils, teachers and community members. Former trustee David Abundis is challenging District 4 trustee and board President Norma Cavazos. Director of state and federally funded programs at the South San Independent School District, Abundis, a one-time schoolteacher and principal, spent 13 years as an HISD trustee before resigning in July 2019. His priorities include how HISD
handles in-person and online classes post-COVID-19, and helping students overcome learning disruptions caused by the pandemic. “We should also focus on how the district plans to address the continuous loss in enrollment,” he added. Cavazos, a Bexar County Courthouse court coordinator, was the only person who applied to replace Abundis in 2019. The nearly 30-year Harlandale resident has been an active parent/ volunteer in HISD schools. Her campaign highlights the district’s pandemic response, including raising teachers’ retention stipends, and ensuring faculty, staff and students have the equipment and support to proceed with remote learning. “Being a proud HISD parent of two, it is my genuine intention to continue to make our children’s success a priority,” she added. In a 2017 rematch, insurance agent Orlando Salazar again faces District 2 trustee Christine Carrillo, a homemaker. Salazar has been active in the
APRIL 6 - MAY 4, 2021
LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS
HISD community and a vocal critic of its leadership for years. Last time, his campaign chided Carrillo for absenteeism at board meetings. He didn’t respond to requests for information. Seeking a third term, Carrillo wishes to remain on a school board she described as “respectful and is working well together.” Carrillo added HISD leadership is eager to regain local control after oversight by state-appointed conservator Judy Castleberry. Board vice president and District 1 trustee Juan Mancha is unopposed.
SAN ANTONIO ISD Former District 3 Councilwoman Leticia Ozuna and Judit Vega, foodjustice coordinator with the Esperanza
DECISION 2021
Peace & Justice Center, vie to succeed outgoing District 3 trustee Debra Guerrero. A Brackenridge High School alumna, Vega wants district leaders to keep pupils’ and employees’ well-being foremost as the community emerges from the pandemic. “Our students, our school workers, and our familias are the heart of our schools and we must unite together to cocreate healthy communities and thriving children,” Vega said. Ozuna, a cybersecurity systems engineer, is a San Antonio Water System trustee and PTA member. She’s concerned about SAISD’s postpandemic plans for in-person, remote and hybrid learning, and about the outbreak’s impact on students’ performance and stability.
“We must be innovative in addressing recovery — academic and emotional,” Ozuna added. COVID-19 case investigator Sarah Sorensen opposes two-term District 1 trustee Steve Lecholop, an attorney and King William Historic District resident. Sorensen, a Lavaca Neighborhood Association leader, founded the Our Schools Coalition, which promotes student-centered public education. The SAISD parent/volunteer wants learners, employees, families and community members to have a greater voice in district decisions. She also backs creating community schools with wraparound services, and “prioritizing curriculum and strategies that are culturally relevant, culturally sustaining and anti-racist, and reduce the
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use of standardized testing and computer-based assessments.” An SAISD parent and former teacher, Lecholop said the district must make “studentcentered, transparent decisions that will improve academic outcomes for kids.” “As our community recovers from COVID-19, stable leadership is critical to ensuring that the changes we’ve implemented are sustainable,” he added. Early voting is 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. April 19-22 and 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. April 24 and 26-27. Locations include Mission Branch Library, 3134 Roosevelt Ave.; Southside ISD Central Office, 1460 Martinez Losoya Road; Palo Alto College Performing Arts Center, 1400 W. Villaret Blvd.; and McCreless Branch Library, 1023 Ada St. eortiz@localcommunitynews.com Find this story and more at www. localcommunitynews.com.
LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM
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LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS
DECISION 2021
APRIL 6 - MAY 4, 2021
ELECTIONS continues from pg. 01
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. Term limits prohibit District 3 Councilwoman Rebecca Viagran from seeking reelection, but her sister Phyllis Viagran hopes to keep the council seat in the family. Phyllis Viagran, a community outreach coordinator with the organization Older Adults Technology Services, previously worked with the San Antonio Police Department to help domestic-violence victims. Viagran’s key issues are bridging the digital divide, addressing domestic violence, caring for senior citizens, and creating post-pandemic jobs. “My life experiences and knowledge of the district have prepared me to be your next councilwoman,” she said. Another notable District 3 office seeker is Tomas Uresti, formerly a state legislator and Harlandale Independent School District trustee. His brother is one-time state Sen. Carlos Uresti. The candidate’s campaign priorities include further pandemic relief for residents and small businesses, addressing homelessness, property-tax relief, expanding parks and recreation, and what he called “economic development without gentrification.” “With the experience and dedication I have for our community, I will work hard in representing all of
URESTI
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VIAGRAN
EARLY VOTING IS 8 A.M. TO 6 P.M. APRIL 19-22 AND 8 A.M. TO 8 P.M. APRIL 24 AND 26-27. San Antonio,” he added. Ten other fellow South Siders are also vying for the position, including business-development representative Katherine Herrera Garza, and Mark Vargas Jr., former counselor at
Brooks Academy of Science and Engineering. Vargas advocates for more pandemic relief for small businesses, unemployed and furloughed workers, and vulnerable residents,
plus free citywide Wi-Fi access to help close the digital divide. He also supports balancing new South Side development with neighborhood preservation. “We need to work to ensure that every resident is being lifted up and able to take advantage of every opportunity,” he added. Herrera Garza is looking at homelessness, crime, improving roads and greater City Hall accountability. “I want to empower this great district to realize its strengths and potential, and to let you know that the power resides in you,” she said. Other District 3 contenders include Stephen “Steve” Valdez, Rafael C. Vela, Diana Flores Uriegas, Rodolfo “Rudy” Lopez, architect Marcello Martinez, sales manager Ted Gonzalez, business owner Walter Murray; and Angela Cardona, an official with the nonprofit Avance. Term limits also exclude District 5 Councilwoman Shirley Gonzales from running again. Eleven residents want to succeed her: real estate agent and Lone Star resident Marie Crabb, immigration attorney David Yañez, nonprofit executive Jason Mata, operations executive Norberto “Geremy” Landin, teacher Teri Castillo, retirees Ray Garza, Rudy Lopez and Jesse J. Alaniz, Harlandale Independent School District trustee Ricardo Moreno, and business owners Anthony Gres and Irma G. Barron. Crabb supports affordable housing, infrastructure improvements, reducing recidivism in crime-control efforts, and more collaboration among area colleges, schools and private sector. “We should be training our future
APRIL 6 - MAY 4, 2021
LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS
leaders,” Crabb said. Regarding the proposed charter amendments, one would repeal police officers’ collective bargaining rights, a goal for reformers. Resident Marie Naranjo helped the group Fix SAPD collect the required 20,000-plus signatures to place the issue on the ballot. “This is about all of us focusing on safety and accountability for our officers, but also for our community and the best possible future for San Antonio,” she stated. San Antonio Police Officers Association President Danny Diaz said collective bargaining is important for “recruiting top-notch police officers who will keep our neighborhoods safe and to ensuring the police chief and
DECISION 2021
NIRENBERG
BROCKHOUSE Citywide elections are May 1. A mayoral race pits incumbent Ron Nirenberg against returning challenger Greg Brockhouse, plus more than a dozen other contenders. Courtesy photo
the city continue to have flexibility in hiring, promotions, discipline,
and boosting diversity within the department.”
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The second proposal would let the city issue bonds for permanent public improvements, such as developing affordable housing, or others not prohibited by the state constitution. Early voting is 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. April 19-22 and 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. April 24 and 26-27. Locations include Mission Branch Library, 3134 Roosevelt Ave.; Southside ISD Central Office, 1460 Martinez Losoya Road; Palo Alto College Performing Arts Center, 1400 W. Villaret Blvd.; and McCreless Branch Library, 1023 Ada St. eortiz@localcommunitynews. com Find this story and more at www. localcommunitynews.com.
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LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS
RECOVERY
APRIL 6 - MAY 4, 2021
DISASTER continues from pg. 01
mercury in San Antonio dipped to record lows the week of Feb. 14, as two of the biggest snowfalls in nearly 40 years occurred days apart. Those blackouts hampered efforts by San Antonio Water System crews to address water-pressure problems caused by pump-station failures and leaks. Thousands of folks literally left out in the cold used social media and other means to share frustrations they endured during and after the wintry blast. Many residents and merchants spent weeks fixing burst pipes and other damages.
SAWS customers may apply for plumbing-repair reimbursement by visiting www.saws.org/cpr. San Antonians who sustained stormrelated property damage or loss of personal property may visit https:// strongertogether.sanantonio.gov or call 311, option 5, for aid. Mayor Ron Nirenberg appointed a committee on winter-storm preparedness and responses. The panel includes District 10 Councilman Clayton Perry, and is chaired by former District 8 Councilman Reed Williams. “While many of the factors that triggered the devastating electrical and
District 3 Councilwoman Rebecca Viagran (background) joins volunteers in a San Antonio Food Bank distribution event Feb. 23 at Brooks. Many residents reported spoiled food after going days without power during the severe winter storm in February. Other people were hard-pressed to find essentials at depleted local grocery stores after the crisis. Courtesy photo/Brooks
water outages in our community were not within our control, it is our duty to report to the community how our emergencyresponse operations and public utilities got in this situation and what can be done to be better prepared for the future,” Nirenberg said. During the crisis, councilwomen Rebecca Viagran and Shirley Gonzales and their aides joined volunteers to distribute food, water and other essentials to residents. They also checked on elderly and homebound inhabitants. Viagran worried about those living in South Side neighborhoods such as Mission Del Lago, who were without
power or water for extended periods. She thanked local relief agencies for their performances under challenging circumstances. “It just shows when you work together, when you communicate with each other, things get done,” Viagran said. Gonzales said the scope of the severe cold snap’s aftereffects is a sign to prepare for future events. “We’ve activated our networks, community groups and nonprofits to be our eyes and ears for what’s needed the most. Truth is, it’s never going to be enough,” she said. State and local leaders now are scrutinizing the Electric Reliability Council of Texas. The state’s power-grid operator ordered energy providers to implement rolling blackouts to stabilize Texas’ power supply during the storm, which resulted in millions without heat. Several ERCOT board members resigned. Texas also aims to help residents worried about exorbitant costs in the aftermath of the disaster. The Public Utility Commission ordered the temporary stoppage of disconnections due to unpaid bills. PUC also determined there would be no invoices or bill estimates until future accounting issues are addressed. Its board also is in transition. In addition, Gov. Greg Abbott asked power companies to better shield their equipment against severe winter weather and mandated the 87th Legislature make overhauling the state’s energy preparedness a priority. “The state of Texas will continue to investigate ERCOT and uncover the full picture of what went wrong, and we will ensure that the disastrous events of (February) are never repeated,” Abbott said. eortiz@localcommunitynews.com Find this story and more at www. localcommunitynews.com.
APRIL 6 - MAY 4, 2021
LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS
Harlandale pantry provides lifeline SUPPLIES OF FOOD, CLOTHING BECAME CRUCIAL DURING WINTER STORM by EDMOND ORTIZ
ONE OF THE SOUTH SIDE’S newest little free pantries is helping provide Harlandale neighborhood residents in need with everything from food to clothes.
The Harlandale Sunshine Pantry, 935 Drury Lane, is open around the clock. During the recent storm, which paralyzed the region for days with ice and snow, the little shop became even more of a necessity, said founder Lotus Rios. “The South Side is very much in need,” she said. The pantry is a self-standing, unmanned container. Rios got the idea for the supply unit after volunteering months ago at Folklores Coffee House’s South Side location. She brought nutrition to older adults, the disabled, undocumented immigrants and others adversely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. When Rios began assisting a fellow volunteer with deliveries elsewhere, she realized the depth of the wider community’s hardship. Rios was eager to do more when, last August, she suffered a mild stroke. No longer able to contribute at Folklores, the volunteer during her recovery reflected on those who touched her life when they required assistance. “I remembered everyone who I was serving and needed even more help,” she said. A short time later, Rios came upon a Facebook post about the Jovita Idár Little Library and Pantry on the West Side. With aid from those organizers, her
sister Marissa Gutierrez and others, Rios opened a similar place for her neighborhood. She set up a GoFundMe — https:// tinyurl.com/sunshinepantry — to raise money to stock the Harlandale pantry, plus maintain and improve the structure. The sisters also use social media to promote the larder, as well as encourage monetary and in-kind donations. “It let me do what I was doing before because there’s a lot of need out here,” Rios added. She recently bought a full-size refrigerator to hold a wider range of produce, meats and other perishables. Rios and her crew disinfect the small pantry and its items. They also encourage patrons to wear masks, use sanitizer and practice physical distancing there. According to the pantry’s creator, community response was initially wary, as some felt too proud to ask for help. “But when a neighbor falls, we all fall. We have to help each other,” she LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM
COMMUNITY
added. The Harlandale Sunshine Pantry’s Facebook page brims with people grateful for Rios and her efforts. “You are a godsend. Thank you for being there for me and everyone,” resident Irma Castillo said. The Harlandale pantry, among others, proved invaluable to those who went without power or water for days during February’s wintry blast. Many individuals gathered items for meals or warm clothes. “We were seeing so many people use the pantry. We had to restock it four or five times,” Rios said. Someone even stole a wooden shelf during the storm. Rios guessed it was burned for warmth or to heat food. The severe weather, further
15
exposed the South Side’s socioeconomic challenges, she said. There have been setbacks with the pantry, too. Vandals tried to pilfer an older refrigerator and a cabinet containing household cleaners and hygiene items. Despite such obstacles, the organizers soldier on. They’re getting aid to grow a garden, which will supply the store with fruits and vegetables. “It’s also educational because neighbors learn to build their own garden and be self-sustaining,” Rios said. “We have to watch out for each other.” eortiz@localcommunitynews.com Find this story and more at www. localcommunitynews.com.
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