LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM VOL. 1, ISSUE 12 | FEB. 2 - MARCH 2, 2021
LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS SOUTH SAN ANTONIO
SUSAN YERKES | PG. 04
HAPPENING LOCAL | PG. 06
LIBRARY BOARD AN OPEN BOOK
ROOTIN’ FOR RODEO REVAMP
GUEST COLUMN | PG. 05
BROOKS SEES JOB GROWTH
TALK LOCAL | PG. 02
A TEXAS STATE OF MIND
Clay-Flores takes seat as new county commissioner
Mural series salutes the ARTWORK PART OF ‘LARGEST OUTDOOR GALLERY’ IN STATE by EDMOND ORTIZ
HARVARD-EDUCATED SOUTH SIDER READY TO REPRESENT CONSTITUENTS by EDMOND ORTIZ
LOCAL ARTISTS have turned a laundromat’s outside wall at West Southcross Boulevard and Zarzamora Street into a canvas highlighting South Side culture and heritage.
It’s the latest product from the San Antonio Street Art Initiative, which partnered with Community First Health Plans to create a mural outside E-Z Wash, 1519 W. Southcross. The street-art initiative, which launched in 2018, MURAL continues on pg. 10
NEW BEXAR COUNTY PRECINCT 1 Commissioner Rebeca “Becky” Clay-Flores often recalls how she and her family experienced homelessness early in her childhood.
Such struggles emboldened the now-45-year-old public servant to do whatever she could to improve her life, and those of relatives, friends and other community members. NEWCOMER continues on pg. 14
EDUCATION | PG. 12
SOUTHSIDE ISD, GRASSROOTS GROUP JOIN FORCES
2
STAFF
LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS FEB. 2 - MARCH 2, 2021
PUBLISHER Jaselle Luna
NEW ADDITIONS TO THE SAN ANTONIO PUBLIC ART LANDSCAPE
EDITORIAL Editor
Thomas Edwards News Staff
Edmond Ortiz Contributing Writers
Olivier J. Bourgoin, Noi Mahoney, Arthur Schechter and Susan Yerkes ART Designer
E. Fisher Contributing Artist
“Door of Equality” by Sebastian at the San Pedro Roundabout
Jeremiah Teutsch ADVERTISING Senior Media Representative
Dawn Radick and Joanne Torres Multimedia Account Representative
Michael Valdelamar Controller
“Najo Jām” planter by Carlos Cortés and Doroteo Garza at the River Walk Public Art Garden
Gracie Cortinez READER SERVICE Mailing Address
5545 Fredericksburg Road, Suite 211 San Antonio, TX 78229 Phone: (210) 338-8842 Fax: (210) 465-9455 ADVERTISING INQUIRIES Advertising@localcommunitynews.com “Lightbox” by Cade Bradshaw at Phil Hardberger Park
STORY IDEAS: tips@localcommunitynews.com EDITOR CONTACT tedwards@localcommunitynews.com OUR OTHER PUBLICATIONS
“Najo Jām” by Carlos Cortés and Doroteo Garza at Comanche Lookout Park
“Innature” by Ashley Mireles at Phil Hardberger Park
North Central SA: 78204, 78205, 78209, 78210, 78212, 78215 North SA - Stone Oak: 78213, 78216, 78230, 78231, 78232, 78248, 78249, 78258, 78259 Metrocom: 78109, 78148, 78233, 78239, 78108, 78132, 78154, 78266 Reproduction in whole or in part without our permission is prohibited, 2021 Local Community News LLC, all rights reserved.
ON THE COVER – San Antonio Street Art Initiative members created the ‘We Love Our Southside’ mural at 1519 W. Southcross Blvd., part of a series of artwork to showcase the vibrant culture of one of the city’s oldest and most well-established areas. See the story on pg. 01. Courtesy photo
The LOCAL Community News editorial board includes Jaselle Luna and Thomas Edwards.
TALK LOCAL
Don’t mess with Texas AS TEXAS GOES, so goes the country. Folks used to say that about California. Not so much anymore. The latest U.S. Census Bureau estimates show our state is among the top five fastest growing in the country. To the newcomers, we say, “Welcome, y’all.” Also: “Leave things as you found them.” We get why you moved here. Texas is business-friendly and lacks a state income tax, with temperate climates and neighborly folks. In addition, the Longhorn State hosts major international airports, a vital seaport, space centers, three of the biggest U.S. cities, the hub of cutting-edge military medicine, and the heart of America’s oil industry. The exodus, especially from California and Silicon Valley, continues. Tech guru Elon Musk announced Austin as his new home; he’s also opening a Tesla plant in nearby Del Valle. Oracle and Hewlett Packard Enterprise are relocating their headquarters to Austin and Spring, respectively. Apple and Amazon have a significant Texas presence. In San Antonio, the seventh-largest U.S. city, several major corporations have already found homes. One of the most well-known is H-E-B, but there’s also Toyota, Rackspace, Boeing, Lockheed Martin, USAA, Caterpillar, Tyson Foods and Wells Fargo. Many recently arrived individuals left other states because of sagging economies, overregulation and perhaps even the political mindset. Here’s a bit of advice: Don’t bring all that baggage to the Lone Star State. Things are pretty much fine just the way they are.
Serving S erving S San an A Antonio ntonio ffor or oover ver 3300 yyears. ears. NO CREDIT CHECK • 12 MONTH SAME AS CASH • FREE LAYAWAYS
Starting at
$
99 9 9 2 1
79999
$
$
Over
399.99
300
Bedroom and Living Room Sets Available
99 9 9 1 1
69999
$
$
Now offering 15% discount to all first responders & medical personnel. We will get through this together as a community in unity
Table with 6 chairs
599.99
$
5 pc.
289.99 289 .99
$
Crown Mark Vanity
99
$
1049 S. E. Military Dr. @ Roosevelt Ave. • 210-468-2169 410 & Bandera Rd. • 210-680-5355 5545 IH-35 & Weidner • Behind Chevron • 210-655-9900 Furniture Mart • 323 S. WW White Rd. • 210-333-3180 For special offers and coupons visit our website WWW.SAMATTRESS.COM Visit our Website for Weekly Specials! Apply on our website for easy no credit check.
Queen Bed starting at $
159.99
MATTRESS SETS from
199
$
NO CREDIT CHECK • 12 MONTH SAME AS CASH • FREE LAYAWAYS
OPINION
4
LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS FEB. 2 - MARCH 2, 2021
Rodeo returns to roots by SUSAN YERKES
WE STARTED 2021 with such high hopes, but we forgot about Murphy’s Law. Named for Edward Murphy, an Army major who became an
Air Force engineer, it basically means, “If anything can go wrong, it will.” Thus went the first weeks of 2021, with a growing pandemic, vaccination bottlenecks and the violence at the U.S. Capitol. Yet we go on, focusing on our families, our neighbors and our communities. We do what we can to be positive. The San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo is going on, in some form, from Feb. 11-28. The decision to move forward was not taken lightly. Since last March, when the coronavirus crisis
hit just after the end of a successful show, organizers have juggled options and contingency plans for 2021. As the outbreak waxed and waned and waxed again, it’s been as tricky a balancing act as riding a bucking bull, one official said. In 2021, the traditionally massive event will be very different, starting with the venue: It’s moving back to
We are raising the bar in cancer care. Landmark Cancer Center will soon be part of the GenesisCare network delivering world-class cancer care, close to home. Our team of highly skilled specialists use the latest techniques and cutting-edge technology to provide personalized care designed around you. Brooks City Base 8019 S New Braunfels Ave, # 101 | San Antonio, TX 78235 Tel: (210) 981-3051
genesiscare.com/USA
the Freeman Coliseum, half the size of the AT&T Center next door, where it’s been since 2003. And, Freeman’s less than 10,000 seats will be half-filled due to COVID-19 precautions. Fewer performances are scheduled, and tickets sold out as soon as they went on sale, since rodeo season ticket holders got first dibs. (The Feb. 28 Charreada event, only confirmed in mid-January, offered a last shot at affordable tickets). The Family Fair and the sprawling carnival won’t happen at all this year. According to executive director and CEO Cody Davenport, this year’s overall attendance is limited to 120,000 people — less than 10% of the estimated 1.5 million who visited in 2020. Yet the heart of the show will go on. “A return to our roots,” is the way spokeswoman Lauren Sides put it. Those roots date to 1949, when rancher Harry Freeman’s dream of a beautiful event center where young people from all over Texas could come for a world-class livestock show became a reality, and the coliseum opened. Just months later, in February 1950, the stock show and rodeo debuted, attracting a quarter of a million fans. The purpose of the showcase is to further the education of young Texans, a mission still intact this year. More than 17,500 youngsters are registered for the livestock
show – about average for the past few years. The schedule is more spaced out and rigid, plus the big auctions and horse shows will be livestreamed, with far fewer spectators. But, when the sawdust from the barns and show rings settles, millions of dollars worth of scholarships will be given to young participants; last year, more than $12 million alone. Some was earned in junior livestock auctions and other events. More came through the San Antonio Livestock Exposition Inc., the event’s organizer, and additional funding came from “education partners” – colleges, universities and educational foundations. Since 1984, more than $233 million has been awarded. These days, as the number of family farms and ranches continues to shrink, about 60% of the scholarships go to young folks who aren’t in 4-H or Future Farmers of America. With pandemic numbers rising in January, the stock show and rodeo could be affected. Organizers have put almost a year’s worth of planning into making it as safe as possible. But, as the year began, we were grimly reminded even good plans can go bad. Here’s hoping Murphy’s Law can be laid to rest for a while. After a rocky start, all of us need a little sense of normalcy; a little reminder of basic Texas values; and a little hopeful news for the future. 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.
FEB. 2 - MARCH 2, 2021
GUEST COLUMN 5
Attracting jobs today for a prosperous tomorrow at Brooks by LEO GOMEZ
CREATING JOBS has been a primary focus for Brooks since the beginning. Brooks Air Force Base was once home to about 2,700 military personnel
and civilians, so when the property was conveyed to the Brooks Development Authority in 2002 it was important to our community and our city that the 1,308-acre campus remained a place where people could live and work long after Air Force operations had ceased. Nearly 20 years later, supporting the housing, transportation and employment needs of our South Side community continues to be our primary charge. Our goal is for you, our neighbors and community members, to be able to find your next job opportunity at Brooks. Here is how we are working to make that a reality: First, by attracting quality employers to the campus. Brooks employees and our board of directors work to ensure the companies joining the Brooks family understand our values, care about the communities in which they operate and create living-wage jobs. We are proud to have established Brooks as home of some of the city’s best employers, with more than 45 businesses on campus. Over the past three years, three major global corporations — Nissei Plastic Machinery America Inc., Okin BPS Inc. and Cuisine Solutions — have opened facilities on campus. In 2021, we look forward to welcoming a fourth as Amazon prepares to debut a delivery facility, offering full- and part-time jobs with additional opportunities for independent delivery contractors and entrepreneurs. Second, by encouraging the employers here at Brooks to hire from the surrounding area. Brooks is currently home to more than 3,200 employees and that number is growing every day with more than 2,000 additional jobs — from entry-level to management positions — anticipated over the next five years. Brooks
provides employers on campus with local recruitment opportunities — hosting two job fairs annually — and encourages them to prioritize qualified applications from our surrounding ZIP codes, because we want you to have the option of a good job close to home. Lastly, by providing you with the resources necessary to land the job. Brooks partners with SA Works and Workforce Solutions Alamo to host biannual job fairs open to all skill and career levels that provide job seekers with job-hunting strategy sessions, resume-building workshops, informational discussions and the opportunity to meet with hiring managers from employers across campus. Job fairs are currently being held virtually as part of our ongoing effort to prioritize the health and well-being of our community. I encourage you to connect with us as we continue to attract new employers and create jobs on campus. To learn about opportunities as they open, stay tuned to livebrooks.com, @livebrooks on Facebook and Instagram, and @livebrookstx on Twitter for more information. Gomez is president and CEO of Brooks. LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM
6
HAPPENING
LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS FEB. 2 - MARCH 2, 2021
FEBRUARY
PLAN YOUR MONTH WITH OUR CALENDAR OF UPCOMING EVENTS IN THE COMMUNITY.
FEB. 2, 16 & MARCH 2
FEB. 13
FEB. 20
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 videoconferencing. For updates or cancellations, visit https://portal.clubrunner.ca/8149.
The Estela Avery Education Center inside Confluence Park, 310 W. Mitchell St., is home to traditional healing practices from 1-5 p.m. For updates or cancellations, visit https://www.facebook.com/ YanawanaHerbolarios/.
FEB. 6, 20
FEB. 15
A farmers’ and artisans’ drive-thru market is 9 a.m. at Mission Marquee Plaza, 3100 Roosevelt Ave. During the pandemic, order through vendors before arriving. For updates, visit https://www.missionmarquee. com/ EVENTS/Farmers-Artisan-Markets or call 210-207-3905.
Mission San José, 701 E. Pyron Ave., is the site of a free, one-hour community yoga session at 10 a.m. For updates or cancellations, call 210932-1001.
Students in the San Antonio Independent School District receive time off for Presidents Day. For updates or cancellations, visit www. saisd.net.
ROTARY CLUB
YOGA AT THE MISSION
FEB. 6, 13
‘THE PEOPLE’S CLINIC’
SCHOOL’S OUT
ART FANS
FEB. 15
Southtown Arts District First and Second Saturday Markets takes place at The Artisan, 1103A S. Presa St., from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For updates, email shop@theartisansatx.com or call 210-962-5560.
Due to COVID-19 concerns, trustees meet at 6:15 p.m. over Zoom. For a link, updates or cancellations, visit www.harlandale.net.
FEB. 9, 17
FEB. 18
San Antonio Independent School District trustees meet at 5:30 p.m. at 406 Barrera St., or during the coronavirus pandemic, over Zoom. For updates or cancellations, visit www.saisd.net.
Trustees meet at 6 p.m. at 1460 Martinez Losoya Road. For updates or cancellations, visit https:// southsideisd.org/.
FEB. 11
FEB. 18
The Good Kind Southtown, 1127 S. St. Mary’s St., presents stand-up comedians at 7 p.m. For entertainers, updates or cancellations, visit https://www.facebook.com/ GoodKindSouthtown/events.
A stroke support group meets from 2-3 p.m. at Southwest General Hospital, Classroom A, 7400 Barlite Blvd. The group helps stroke survivors, their families and caregivers. For updates or cancellations, and to RSVP, call 1-877-215-9355.
SAISD BOARD MEETING
SHARE A LAUGH
FEB. 11
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.
HARLANDALE ISD
SOUTHSIDE ISD
STROKE SUPPORT
FARMERS’ MARKET
FEB. 24
SAPL BOARD Open to the public, trustees from the San Antonio Public Library gather from 4:30 to 7 p.m. at Central Library, 600 Soledad St. For updates or cancellations, call 210-207-2632.
FEB. 27 ZUMBA
The Greenline, 2532 Sidney Brooks Drive, hosts free Zumba classes from 9-9:45 a.m. Bring water and a towel. Visit www.livebrooks.com.
MARCH 3
BABY’S FIRST YEAR Check in for a free Zoom talk, “Baby’s First Year,” from 6-7 p.m. During the beginning 12 months, infants take big steps in their development. Learn what to expect and how to help them. For more and to register, call 210890-2076 or email gabriela.g.cadena@ mwarep.org.
BEGINNING IN MARCH MISSION MARQUEE PLAZA
Experience culture, art, education and more on the historic grounds of Mission Marquee Plaza, 3100
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.
FEB. 2 - MARCH 2, 2021
LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS
Roosevelt Ave. For updates or cancellations, visit https://www. missionmarquee.com/EVENTS/ Cultural-Community-Events.
THROUGH MAY 9 BLUE STAR
Blue Star Contemporary, 116 Blue Star St., presents four exhibitions offering contemplation of today’s tumultuous times. For updates or cancellations, visit https:// bluestarcontemporary.org/.
WEDNESDAYS GOOD VIBES
The Good Kind Southtown, 1127 S. St. Mary’s St., hosts “Wednesday Vibes in the Garden.” Experience music, yard games and more from 6-10 p.m. For updates or cancellations, visit https:// eatgoodkind.com/.
SUNDAYS
BRUNCH AND FITNESS The Good Kind Southtown, 1127 S. St. Mary’s St., offers brunch and musical entertainment from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Also, come at 10 a.m. for exercise. For updates or cancellations, visit https://www.facebook.com/ GoodKindSouthtown/events/.
SUNDAYS
YOGA CLASS Confluence Park, 310 W. Mitchell St., hosts free yoga sessions for all levels from 10-11 a.m. For more, visit https://sariverfound.org/confluencepark/park-events/.
ONGOING
FREE SCHOOL MEALS The Harlandale Independent School District provides no-cost meals to enrolled HISD students. For updates or cancellations, call
Marcos Rodriguez at 210-9894252 or email Marcos.rodriguez@ harlandale.net. Also, qualifying campuses in the San Antonio Independent School District serve breakfast and lunch to all children at no charge and eliminate the collection of meal applications for free, reduced-price and paid student meals. For updates or cancellations, call 210-554-2290.
ONGOING
ADULT EDUCATION CLASSES The San Antonio Independent School District offers free online classes through its Adult and Community Education Department. Sessions include citizenship, customer-service certification courses, information technology specialist certification, and basic computer-skills courses in Spanish. For more, call 210554-2453 or 210-554-2450 or visit www.saisd.net/ace.
HAPPENING
locations, and ticket purchasing, visit https://www.sarodeo.com/.
updates or cancellations, visit https:// gardeningvolunteers.org/.
THROUGH FEB. 14
FEB. 17
“Holiday Lights on the River Walk,” 849 E. Commerce St., will be illuminated nightly. For updates or cancellations, visit https:// www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com/ events/holiday-lights-on-the-riverwalk-free/.
VIRTUAL GARDENING CLASSES
UT Health San Antonio offers a group setting for women with gynecologic cancers. Meetings are on the third Wednesday of the month from 6-8 p.m. at the Medical Arts & Research Center, 8300 Floyd Curl Drive (first-floor conference room B). Light refreshments offered. Free parking. For updates or cancellations, visit uthealthcare.org/ purple or call 210-450-9500.
Garden Volunteers of South Texas holds free, open-to-thepublic Zoom conferences from noon to 1 p.m. during the coronavirus pandemic. For
SUBMITTING EVENTS: Email all the details along with your contact information two months in advance to tips@localcommunitynews.com.
SCENIC LIGHTS
CANCER SUPPORT GROUP
FEB. 15
LOCAL IS WHERE YOU ARE. LOCAL IS WHAT WE DO.
ONGOING
GOODWILL PICKUPS Goodwill Industries offers donation pickup services for large amounts of clothing, household items and furniture. For updates or cancellations, call 210-271-8881 or fill out pickup forms at https:// www.goodwillsa.org/donate/homepickup.
ELSEWHERE IN SAN ANTONIO
FEB. 11-28
RIDE ‘EM COWBOY The San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, with animals, agriculture, family entertainment, food and beverages, live music, shopping and more, has become one of the largest annual events in the city. For a complete schedule, exact
LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM
7
Join
LOCAL as a Media Sales Representative
We’re looking for dedicated individuals who want to be a part of a great team! Responsibilities include servicing and growing accounts within an assigned geographic territory within San Antonio. • Paid Holidays
• Commission
• Base Salary
• Bonuses
• Paid Vacation
Interested?
Email your cover letter & resume to: Careers@localcommunitynews.com
8
LOWDOWN
LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS FEB. 2 - MARCH 2, 2021
TAKE A QUICK LOOK AT WHAT’S NEW IN THE COMMUNITY FROM OPENINGS AND CLOSINGS TO NEWS TIDBITS.
Brooster’s Backyard Ice House, a new hot spot on the South Side, not only offers brews and grub, but also is sponsoring community events like a recent book drive. File photo
Open and Opening Soon BROOSTER’S BACKYARD ICE HOUSE, 815 Pleasanton Road, recently debuted as an open-air, pet- and kid-friendly beer joint. Hours are 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. Friday and Saturday, noon to midnight Sunday, and 4 p.m. to midnight Monday through Thursday. For more, visit www.facebook.com/ BroostersBackyard. (See the story on page 13) HEALTHTEXAS MEDICAL GROUP, 1910 S. New Braunfels Ave., features six exam rooms, plus a procedure room, all on a single level for easy access. Parking is also free. Hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays. For more, call 210532-0891. (See story on page 15)
BROOSTER’S BACKYARD ICE HOUSE 815 Pleasanton Road
IN OTHER NEWS:
HARLANDALE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS recently extended the contract of Superintendent Gerardo Soto. The agreement lasts through 2025 and includes a 3% raise for a positive evaluation. Soto was hired in January 2020 at a salary of $207,000. “It is our privilege to continue to be led by an individual who is not only fully dedicated to our students’ outcome and success, but also those of our teachers and … Harlandale ISD employees,” said board President Norma Cavazos.
AMAZON ANNOUNCED PLANS TO DEVELOP a 350,000-square-foot delivery station at Brooks and two other San Antonio facilities. “Brooks is thrilled to welcome Amazon to our thriving mixedused community,” said Connie Gonzalez, director of strategy and community relations, in a statement. “We strive to attract innovative companies like Amazon to our campus to fulfill our mission of creating jobs that support the employment needs of our community. The Amazon delivery station at Brooks will bring hundreds of jobs with an industryleading pay and comprehensive benefits while supporting service delivery throughout South Texas.” Located just off Southeast Military Drive at 8210 Aviation Landing, the center is scheduled to open by the end of 2021.
Inclusion Project will work with about 2,400 homes in the Edgewood Independent School District, along with neighborhoods adjacent to Lanier High School and Garcia University School. Participants will get technology support through a newly formed centralized help desk operated by the college’s Information Technology Services unit.
FOURTEEN STUDENT-ATHLETES FROM the San Antonio Independent School District received scholarships from the 2020 Valero Alamo Bowl. More than 150 recipients from high school and collegiate programs divided over $1 million. It’s the largest number of scholarships awarded in bowl history. Winners applying $7,500 toward their college education include: Ilse Rodriguez, Brackenridge; Dayanh RubioGomez, Highlands; Jade Gibbs, Burbank; and Chyna Smith, St. Philip’s Early College High School.
THE BOARD OF CONTEMPORARY ARTS nonprofit Luminaria recently named Harlandale High School alumna Yadhira Lozano as its new executive director after a fourmonth search. Lozano previously served with the Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center and Briscoe Western Art Museum.
TWO NEW MEMBERS WERE RECENTLY ADDED TO THE Brooks board: Rudy
TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY-SAN ANTONIO RECENTLY RECEIVED A $750,000 GRANT FROM USAA
Garza, chief customer engagement officer for CPS Energy, and Pat Jason, who served as vice chairwoman for the San Antonio Water System board.
to jump-start a pilot program addressing digital inclusion in south Bexar County. The Digital
CITY COUNCIL AND SCHOOL BOARD HOPEFULS HAVE until 5 p.m.
FEB. 2 - MARCH 2, 2021
LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS
HO-HO-HELLO FROM GONZABA MEDICAL GROUP
LOWDOWN
holiday cheer to some of its most vulnerable residents by providing gift cards to 2,500 elderly and disabled publichousing denizens living in SAHA properties citywide. Some also got a physically distanced greeting from Mayor Ron Nirenberg, SAHA and Gonzaba Medical Group leadership, and even Santa Claus. In addition to Gonzaba’s $25,000 donation, H-E-B also provided financial assistance.
IVY HALL EVENTS, LOCATED AT THE GOOD KIND, 1127 S. St. Mary’s St., is the 2021 winner of The Knot Best of Weddings, an honor reflecting the highest- and mostrated wedding professionals as
9
reviewed by real couples, their families, and wedding guests on The Knot, a leading wedding planning and registry brand and app.
SOUTH SIDE NATIVE AND MCCOLLUM HIGH SCHOOL ALUMNA Marla Lackey recently published her first book, “Faith and a Tube of Lipstick,” whichchronicles her journey of caregiving and grief with her mother, who battled terminal cancer. The book is available on Amazon. Lackey, a nurse, author, blogger and speaker, has performed a citywide tour of book signings. Find LOCAL Lowdown at www. localcommunitynews.com.
Cambridge Family Dental Feb. 12 to file for a ballot spot ahead of the May 1 elections. The mayor’s office and all 10 council seats are open for applications. Two councilwomen — Rebecca Viagran in District 3 and Shirley Gonzales in District 5 — can’t run again due to term limits. Other posts up for grabs are: San Antonio Independent School District — District 1; and Harlandale Independent School District — districts 1, 2, 3 and 4. School board terms are four years; council stints last two.
THE NONPROFIT SCOOBY VAN OF SAN ANTONIO began a South Side
chapter, expanding efforts to provide free books to underserved children by using a “Scooby Van” designed like the Mystery Machine in the “Scooby Doo” animated series to operate as a mobile Little Free Library. A Dec. 26 event at Brooster’s Backyard Ice House, 815 Pleasanton Road, saw hundreds of donated books collected. A permanent Little Free Library is installed in front of Brooster’s. Visit http://www. scoobyvansa.org for details.
ON DEC. 15, THE SAN ANTONIO HOUSING AUTHORITY AND THE GONZABA Medical Group brought LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM
• Cosmetic • Extractions • Teeth Whitening • Dental Implants
• Crowns/Bridges • Root Canals • Periodontics • Sedation
Juan Manuel Molina, DDS General Dentist Si Habla Espanol
Accepting new patients.
3859 E. Southcross, Ste. E • In Minten Plaza 210-337-7114 • JuanMolinaDDS.com www.
localcommunitynews.com
DIGITAL
For your community news updates, p events, coupons p and more!
STAY SOCIALL
M M h
10
LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS
URBAN ART
FEB. 2 - MARCH 2, 2021
MURAL continues from pg. 01
has painted nearly 50 murals in San Antonio, working toward what the nonprofit collectively calls “the largest outdoor gallery in Texas.” “Public art is so important in the community and it’s an honor to be part of this project,” said muralist Eva Sanchez. Titled “We Love Our Southside,” the colorful collage bears imagery and themes familiar to most San Antonians, particularly South Side inhabitants: a woman preparing a tortilla; the bells of Mission San Juan Capistrano; Mexican sweetbread; and an ice cream truck. Even shades of Fiesta colors, which have recently reemerged in the San Antonio Spurs’ logo, are included here. Participating artists and Community First representatives took part in a mural unveiling Dec. 21. “We’re super proud to have this in our backyard,” said Shek Vega, SASAI founder and president, who was joined then by Sanchez and fellow muralists Joe De La Cruz and Nik Soupe; all of whom live or grew up on the South Side. Vega noted the people, places and points of interest on the South Side are integral to San Antonio’s past, present and future. “When you think of the South Side, you think of the historic missions and the (San Antonio River) Mission Reach and the commerce that happens on Southwest Military Drive,” he said. He added, “But we often forget about the neighborhoods and the people that make the South Side so great. From the far West Side to the far East Side, it’s a big part of San Antonio and we’re happy to represent it in that way.”
“We Love Our Southside” is the first in a series of similar murals SASAI intends to create, in the coming months, across the area. Burgundy Woods, an SASAI board member known in the local fashion industry, said the organization surveyed 40 South Side business owners, civic leaders and other influencers and asked what makes
San Antonio Street Art Initiative members unveil a new mural, ‘We Love Our Southside,’ Dec. 21 at 1519 W. Southcross Blvd. Standing are Burgundy Woods (left), SASAI board member; Shek Vega, SASAI founder/president; Theresa Scepanski, Community First Health Plans president/CEO; and muralists Eva Sanchez, Joe De La Cruz and Nik Soupe. Scepanski is accompanied by three Community First Health Plans representatives (kneeling): Judy Razo (left), Ana Vela and Cynthia De La Pena. Photo by Edmond Ortiz
THIS (MURAL) IS ... GOING TO BE HERE FOR MANY YEARS.”
THERESA SCEPANSKI, COMMUNITY FIRST HEALTH PLANS
FEB. 2 - MARCH 2, 2021
LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS
URBAN ART
appreciated SASAI’s commitment to use local talent for the public displays, which they added is key to strengthening San Antonio’s visualarts scene. The former also said he’s excited as more painters join future endeavors. “We have a lot of spaces on the streets here on the South Side. As an artist, I’m just looking forward to seeing more artists’ response and community response to maintain pride in the South Side,” he added. Woods and the participating artists also thanked Community First, noting support from the nonprofit health-maintenance organization was especially significant given the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on the arts community.
11
A native South Sider, Community First President/CEO Theresa Scepanski said her business is always exploring ways to “enhance the culture of our community.” Adding, when it comes to publichealth discussions, art could play an instrumental role in healing. “We’ve invested, over the course of the last few years, in many events and many different projects related to art, and this (mural) is definitely going to be here for many years to come and really signify the culture, community and unity here on the South Side,” she said. Artists interested in SASAI may visit www.sanantoniostreetart.org for details. eortiz@localcommunitynews.com Find this story and more at www. localcommunitynews.com.
A New Year Deserves a New Beginning.
them most proud about their community. “They were able to give us a massive list of these amazing things that they love about their whole neighborhood,” Woods said. “That list is how we designed this mural.” Vega picked a few images for the first creation. Other depictions and themes suggested by the focus group
will be incorporated in upcoming SASAI artwork, Woods said. De La Cruz said each artist was responsible for a specific mural piece, which he added, “came together as a puzzle.” “It was nice to see the community response while we were working out here. A lot of positive things were said,” De La Cruz added of passersby. Sanchez said she loves how the mural is created and “owned” by South Side residents. De La Cruz and Sanchez LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM
No one gets a diploma alone. Victory Learning Center has helped over 7,000 students earn their diploma. We are here to help you along the way to a better future and achieve your dream! • Upon Graduation, a Diploma and Transcripts will be Awarded • We offer flexible schedules and home based programs • Individualized Attention • Accredited & Experienced Instructors • The Program is offered in English and Spanish *VLC students are considered Non-Traditional Secondary Education students pursuant to the Texas Education Code, Section 51.9241 and has been approved through Texas Legislature House Bill 944 There are two graduation ceremonies a year, Spring and Fall As Required by the State of Texas, the program includes the completion of 24 Credits
Now 2 Locations To Better Serve You 660 S. W. Military Suite: T, San Antonio, TX, 78221 (Inside Shoppers City Mall)
210-922-2922 404 Brady Blvd San Antonio 78207
Victorylearningcenter.org
210-314-1721
12
LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS
EDUCATION
FEB. 2 - MARCH 2, 2021
SISD sets sights on community engagement
SCHOOL DISTRICT, COPS/ METRO PARTNER TO IMPROVE COMMUNICATION by EDMOND ORTIZ
A SOUTH SIDE SCHOOL DISTRICT and a grassroots activist group are partnering to improve students’ academic performance and enhance connections with parents and the community.
Leaders from the Southside Independent School District and COPS/Metro announced their new working relationship at a Dec. 3 physically distanced press conference. Together they plan a listening tour, including monthly gatherings where district officials can get direct input from learners, their families and other residents about local educational needs. There also would be what COPS/ Metro calls “civic academies” as part of the collaboration. The long-term goal, according to officials, is to educate families about the school system, various issues being addressed and how best to advance pupils’ studies. “We are a team and we believe in the triangle of students, parents and the district working together,” SISD Superintendent Rolando Ramirez said. Estela Sanchez, a COPS/Metro organizer and SISD mother, said
she looks forward to partnering with the district to empower other parents, getting them and neighbors more involved in school-community initiatives. Another COPS/Metro member and SISD mom, Montserrat Amador, said the importance of education can’t be stressed enough. “Just a year ago, I was not allowed to enter the school premises for not having an American ID. Today, I am where the decisions are made and I will work with the district’s administration and Superintendent Ramirez to improve the quality of education of my children,”
Amador said. She added, “We don’t have to conform with the minimum. Our children from the South Side deserve the same education as children in the North (Side) of San Antonio.” Vicente Arreguin, an SISD grandfather, said he is “glad we have a seat at the table and (can) build a relationship with the school district that plays a big part in our daily lives.” Arreguin said it’s important for moms and dads to understand the requirements of students and teachers, and for the school district to realize parents’ needs. “We’ve kind of been the forgotten ones,” Arreguin said. He noted some Southside ISD families lack technological savvy or have no web access, so their children struggle to keep pace with remote learning during the COVID-19
pandemic. Arreguin also added he hopes the collaboration will prompt SISD to consider more ideas about innovative educational programs and practices the school district could adapt to benefit instructors and students. “It’s just a matter of getting together and talking about these things,” he said. eortiz@localcommunitynews. com Find this story and more at www. localcommunitynews.com.
Southside Independent School District Superintendent Rolando Ramirez (left) listens to comments from COPS/Metro parent Estela Sanchez (center). She is joined by fellow COPS/Metro parent Montserrat Amador. Courtesy photo
FEB. 2 - MARCH 2, 2021
LEARN ABOUT THE NEWEST NEIGHBORHOOD PLACES FOR BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER.
HOURS ARE CURRENT AS OF PRESS TIME, BUT CHECK WITH THE BUSINESS FOR UPDATES.
EAT
LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS
Brews and chancla throwing at Brooster’s by OLIVIER J. BOURGOIN
A VETERAN MANAGER of countrywestern nightclubs has launched a family-friendly beer garden offering brews, turtle races and even chanclathrowing contests.
Brooster’s Backyard Ice House, a 6,000-square-foot open-air venue, debuted in November at 815 Pleasanton Road. Norman Velez, a McCollum High School
Norman Velez (pictured, left), a South Side resident who ran North Side lounges for years, has debuted Brooster’s Backyard Ice House (right) on his home turf. He says the family-friendly place has plenty to offer patrons. File photos
graduate who managed North Side cowboy-themed bars for many years, thought it was time to return to his roots. “I’ve always lived on the South Side. I saw this as my opportunity to open a place of my own on my side of town,” Velez said. “I like to say that the South Side is the heart of San Antonio.” Brooster’s is for adults and children alike, he added. “I want … Brooster’s to be a family place with fun for all; kid- and pet-friendly,” he said. “I want it to reflect some of the laid-back, fun aspect of the local culture, so on top of all the bar-friendly food and the wide variety of beers ... I want to offer a family night, Lotería night,
13
yoga classes as well as chanclathrowing contests, turtle races (and more).” In addition to the outdoor area, the space offers an additional 3,500 square feet inside. “We plan on having over 50 different types of beer, including a nice selection of craft beers, some wine and of course, mangonadas and rusas — but no glass containers,” Velez said. Hours are 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. Friday and Saturday, noon to midnight Sunday, and 4 p.m. to midnight Monday through Thursday. Find EAT Local at www. localcommunitynews.com.
STAY SAFE STAY HEALTHY SHOP LOCAL
\Here Today. Here Tomorrow. Always LOCAL. We’re moving forward together.
BROOSTER’S BACKYARD ICE HOUSE
815 Pleasanton Road For more, visit www.facebook.com/BroostersBackyard LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM
Contact us to learn more about our timely and affordable marketing options to reach your engaged neighbors.
210-338-8842 LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM/CONTACT
14
LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS
POLITICS
FEB. 2 - MARCH 2, 2021
NEWCOMER continues from pg. 01
“In many ways I am still that little inner-city girl who understands what it takes to endure hardship and yet keep on fighting for a better tomorrow,” she said. A political newcomer, Clay-Flores unseated longtime Commissioner Sergio “Chico” Rodriguez in a Democratic primary runoff last July. She easily beat Republican Gabriel Lara in the November general election, and after a Jan. 1 swearing-in ceremony, became the first woman of color on Commissioners Court. Clay-Flores is Black and Latina. Clay-Flores and another newly installed county commissioner, Precinct 3’s Trish DeBerry, are the first women
on the court this century, following in the footsteps of Cyndi Taylor Krier and Helen Dutmer, who served in the 1990s. The historical significance isn’t lost on Clay-Flores, who recounted being “disgusted” by the lack of previous female representation, and dismayed no woman of color had served as one of the county’s top elected leaders. “I was also tired of my part of town being left behind and not seeing much progress in my immediate community,” she said, citing another reason to seek office. “I’m someone who believes that if I’m going to complain about something, then I need to be willing to do something about it. So, I ran for better representation, and to serve and fight for resources for Precinct 1.”
Precinct 1 County Commissioner Rebeca Clay-Flores (center) poses with family during her swearing-in ceremony Jan. 1 at the Bexar County Courthouse. Courtesy photo
The Brackenridge High School graduate attended Princeton University, majoring in religion with a certificate in African American studies. She then earned a master’s degree in education from Harvard University. Back home in San Antonio, Clay-Flores spent years working in education and for nonprofits. She also taught English in Tampico, Mexico, and during a stint at a private Tennessee university, recruited collegians to contribute one year volunteering in community service. Growing up, Clay-Flores and her brothers accompanied their mom — also named Rebeca — to her mother’s native Mexico each summer doing missionary work. “My mother exemplified servant leadership, and her example of community service instilled in us the need and desire to serve,” the South Sider said. Clay-Flores worked for former Mayor Ivy Taylor and the Metropolitan Health District. There, she learned municipal staff does the grunt work to help realize the ideas of elected officials, she said. “That’s why I’m meeting with all of the county departments and staff at all levels – from maintenance workers to directors – to understand the personality and culture of each department as we move forward serving together,” she added. As county commissioner, Clay-Flores plans to focus on economic development, property-tax relief and helping veterans. She also wants to enhance community members’ mental-health services, and break the school-to-prison pipeline. Regarding the latter, Clay-Flores indicated Commissioners Court has influence over correctional facilities, including the Bexar County Jail and juvenile detention, which she adds should empower inmates to make better decisions about life after incarceration.
She also said the county can help ensure places of learning are equipped with appropriate personnel and programs so students, too, can make good choices going forward. In addition, Clay-Flores pledged to be “present and accessible.” Upon challenging four-term county commissioner Rodriguez, Clay-Flores dinged the incumbent for poor communications with constituents, and failure to address some longstanding issues. However, other commissioners praised Rodriguez’s work developing the San Antonio River Mission Reach, improving area drainage and roads, and establishing the South Side’s BiblioTech branch. Clay-Flores said it’s a new era in Precinct 1, where she’ll help fight unfairness and be a “voice for the voiceless.” “Many in our community experience injustice daily and have not had adequate representation in the body of elected officials who serve,” she added. State Sen. Roland Gutierrez, D-San Antonio, who administered Clay-Flores’ oath of office, said government could be a positive tool if officeholders keep a proper perspective and know their decisions affect all constituents, not just themselves. “But, sometimes it can go wrong, and that’s when a government becomes a government of ‘I’ and not a government of ‘we,’” he said. “It’s the seat of the people, but I think you know that, you will always know that, and will never forget it,” he told Clay-Flores. “The work has just begun and I have a long four years ahead of me to serve this great county,” Clay-Flores said. eortiz@localcommunitynews.com Find this story and more at www. localcommunitynews.com.
FEB. 2 - MARCH 2, 2021
LEARN MORE ABOUT NEWEST PURVEYORS OF GOODS AND SERVICES IN YOUR AREA. HOURS ARE CURRENT AS OF PRESS TIME, BUT CHECK WITH THE BUSINESS FOR UPDATES.
HEALTHTEXAS MEDICAL GROUP
1910 S. New Braunfels Ave. For more, call 210-532-0891
LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS
South Side medical clinic caring for seniors by OLIVIER J. BOURGOIN
HEALTHTEXAS MEDICAL GROUP offers tailored care for older people, including at a recently opened South Side clinic.
The association, which does business under the umbrella of HealthTexas Primary Care Doctors, has 17 offices located in and around the greater San Antonio area. Fifteen are in San Antonio proper, plus Boerne and New Braunfels, with one planned for the Schertz/ Cibolo vicinity in 2021. The Highlands venue opened in July at 1910 S. New Braunfels Ave. Featuring six exam rooms and a procedure workspace, the 2,800-square-foot building, by design,
BUY
15
is one level, creating easy access for elderly clients. Another benefit: free parking, often nonexistent at many medical facilities, staffers said. “We’ve been growing at a rapid pace,” said Executive Marketing Director Patricia “Tricia” Lopez. “We only provide services for what we do best — primary care with an emphasis on senior care with Medicare beneficiaries.” The privately held company, owned by a group of physicians, employs about 400 with CEO Kristi Clark at the helm. She’s a seasoned industry veteran who has been practicing internal medicine for more than 20 years. “Our legal name is HealthTexas Medical Group, but through research, we’ve learned that not everyone understands ‘medical group,’ which is why we use ‘HealthTexas Primary Care Doctors’ in a lot of our advertising,” Lopez said. Hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays. Find this BUY Local at www. localcommunitynews.com.
PROUDLY SERVING SOUTH SAN ANTONIO COMPLETE AUTO REPAIR FOREIGN & DOMESTIC ALL FLEET VEHICLES ACCEPTED
WE SANITIZE ALL VEHICLES
BRAKES
OIL CHANGE
AC CHECK
CHECK ENGINE
$
+ TAX
2-WHEEL ALIGNMENT
69.95 CARS & TRUCKS
4 Wheel Alignment at additional cost. 6 mo. 6,000 mile warranty or lifetime for $149.99 Additional parts at an extra cost. A PLUS AUTO SERVICE Not Valid With Any other offers or coupons Must Present Coupon at time of service. Expires 2/28/2021.
TRANSMISSION FLUSH AND OIL CHANGE $
+ TAX
89.95
Complete Flush, Oil Lube & Standard Filter (Internal Filter additional cost) Up to 5 qts. Replaces Virtually all of the old dirty Transmission Fluid. (*most vehicles) Helps Extend the life of your transmission. Provides Smoother Shifting & extruded Trouble-free driving. Additional parts & Services may be needed at extra cost A PLUS AUTO SERVICE Not Valid With Any other offers or coupons Must Present Coupon at time of service. Expires 2/28/2021.
MOBILE 1 SYNTHETIC OIL CHANGE $
+ TAX
59.95 CARS & TRUCKS
Up to 5 qts standard oil, 0/20, 5/20, 5/30/ 10/30 (*most vehicles) Oil change with standard filter (internal filter additional cost) A PLUS AUTO SERVICE Not Valid With Any other offers or coupons Must Present Coupon at time of service. Expires 2/28/2021.
FLUID COMBO PACKAGE $
+ TAX
119.95
*Most Vehicles. Up to 5 qts standard oil, 0/20, 5/20, 5/30/ 10/30. Oil change with standard filter (internal filter additional cost). Transmission Flush & Refill. Check Radiator Drain & Fill, Lube Oil & Filter A PLUS AUTO SERVICE Not Valid With Any other offers or coupons Must Present Coupon at time of service, Expires 2/28/2021.
REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT:
210-923-3333
HealthTexas Medical Group, operating a new clinic on the South Side, is focused on care for older persons, with only one floor and free parking. Courtesy photo
LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM
1525 SW Military Dr., San Antonio , TX , 78221 Hours: Monday-Saturday, 8am-6pm • Sunday, 10am-6pm
*****ECR WSS Postal Customer Prsrt Std US Postage Paid Permit 6450 San Antonio TX
Your One Stop
Solution
for Arthritis and Pain Management
EFFICIENCY The Gonzaba Team Has You Covered! MEETS EXHILERATION.
With the Gonzaba Arthritis and Pain Improvement Team, your joint pain is our main focus. . .so it
doesn’t have to be yours. An experienced team of in-house primary care physicians and specialists
THE ALL NEW 2018 BMW 530e.
work together to create a custom pain management plan to treat your specific condition. Gonzaba Medical Group offers a wide range of in-house pain management strategies including medication, injections, physical medicine and rehabilitation, and educational classes.
Dr. Aaron Garza
Dr. Bradley Smith
Stuart Saunders, PT
Internal Medicine
Rheumatologist
Rheumatologist
Chiropractic Medicine
Licensed Physical Therapist
A
principleauto
Dealership
Call today to take control of your arthritis.
BMWofSanAntonio.com (210) 569-0889 • Gonzaba.com/arthritis 877-447-7443 | 8434 Airport Blvd.
4204 GARDENDALE STE. 201
Dr. Ana Ballester
C O M M COMMUNITY U N I T Y NNEWS EWS
BMW of San Antonio Dr. Manuel Martinez
5545 Fredericksburg Road,TXSuite SAN ANTONIO, 78229211 San Antonio, TX 78229
The all-new BMW 530e iPerformance with EPA estimated 72 MPGe maximizes efficiency by affording you the ability to power your drive using all-gas, all-electric or an intelligent combination of both. Plus, with features like eBoost Instant Acceleration, and the ability to upload directions and precondition the cabin climate remotely from your smartphone, you can take charge of the road, the office and beyond from behind the wheel.