LOCAL - Southside March 2021 edition

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CELEBRATING OUR 1-YEAR ANNIVERSARY LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM VOL. 2, ISSUE 1 | MARCH 9 - APRIL 6, 2021

LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS SOUTH SAN ANTONIO

SUSAN YERKES | PG. 04

TALK LOCAL | PG. 02

CHECK THIS OUT NEW BLOGS DEBUT ON LOCAL'S WEBSITE

Nicha’s planning to expand South Side locale

CONVERSION OF FORMER AIR BASES CREATED ECONOMIC HUBS by EDMOND ORTIZ

Wolff made his remarks during a South San Antonio Chamber of Commerce luncheon address Jan. 28 at the Embassy Suites by Hilton San Antonio Brooks Hotel & Spa.

MEDICAL SECTION | PG. 10

ACTIVISM NOT SNOWSTORM DON'T FORGET A DIRTY WORD AFTERSHOCKS YOUR CHECKUPS

Wolff: South Side economy still primed for growth

COUNTY JUDGE NELSON WOLFF is confident the South Side’s business climate will strongly rebound after the COVID-19 pandemic is contained.

SEVERE WEATHER | PG. 15

The longtime political leader told attendees South Side commerce was already robust at the novel coronavirus’ outset, and predicted more growth ahead. Wolff said Brooks heralds an era of new expansion for the South Side, noting a diverse group pulled together BROOKS continues on pg. 12

NEW SITE HAS MORE SPACE TO OFFER AMENITIES by EDMOND ORTIZ

NICHA’S COMIDA MEXICANA plans on moving its iconic South Side restaurant, but don’t worry — it’s not going far. RESTAURANT continues on pg. 14

POLITICS | PG. 08

LET THE RACES BEGIN

CANDIDATES FILE FOR MAY 1 ELECTION


2 STAFF

LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS MARCH 9 - APRIL 6, 2021

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TA L K LO CA L

Bloggers debut LOCAL Community News is taking another exciting leap into the digital age by introducing a slate of bloggers offering unique insights on parenting, beer, wine and more. We’re excited to present this diverse and talented group of writers to our growing online audience. The blogs are exclusive to the website and are not in our print products. Fresh columns will post each week at www.localcommunitynews.com. Always feel free to share them and make comments. Initial contributors include Olivier J. Bourgoin, alias “The Wine Guy,” detailing all he’s heard from the grapevine, plus food pairings, libations and more. Former television reporter and publicrelations specialist Gina Galaviz Eisenberg details the fun and challenges of raising young children.

Travis E. Poling, longtime business writer, beer expert and Texas-beerindustry author, serves up perspectives on what’s good to pour in a pint glass, happenings in the craft-beer market, and new laws affecting brewers. Thomas Edwards will resurrect his award-winning column, “From the Editor.” He’ll be offering his perspective on local news and politics, as well as observations on the state of journalism. In the coming weeks, we plan to introduce more blogs. They’ll be offering tips and comments on everything from great foods and making superb meals, to sports and even the best coffees and teas. We predict with a lineup like this, visiting www.localcommunitynews. com will become part of your routine. Prepare to be entertained, informed and enthralled.

ON THE COVER – Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff during a South San Antonio Chamber of Commerce luncheon said the South Side is poised for economic and technological growth. A future project has Terramark Urban Homes building 60 for-sale single-family houses near The Greenline linear park at Brooks. See the story on page 01. Courtesy image/Terramark

The LOCAL Community News editorial board includes Jaselle Luna and Thomas Edwards.


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OPINION

LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS MARCH 9 - APRIL 6, 2021

In praise of activists by SUSAN YERKES

THE YEAR OF COVID-19 also has been a year of political activism, from sweeping Black Lives Matter protests to storming the U.S. Capitol.

In San Antonio, thank God, citizen engagement is almost exclusively nonviolent. In fact, the most widespread and effective movements of the past months involved petitions to reform three of the city’s most powerful institutions. Only one — Fix SAPD — potentially succeeded. The group collected the 20,000 valid signatures required to get a proposal on the May 1 ballot limiting the San Antonio Police Officers Association’s collective bargaining rights.

With contract negotiations between the city and the police association just getting started, it’ll be interesting to see how San Antonians vote. Election success would certainly send a signal to SAPOA leaders, though not strip them of all power. Whatever the outcome, certainly thousands understand more about how public-safety unions work. They also know you can fight for change in a

A New Year Deserves a New Beginning. 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

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peaceful and informed way. The two other recent drives for reforms garnered much attention, although not enough signatures for ballot inclusion. Recall CPS, aimed at CPS Energy, and SAWS Accountability Act, targeting the San Antonio Water System, both sought major changes in the leadership of the city-owned utilities, rate structures and more. Even with little funding, Recall CPS organizers made waves. Maybe it’s just coincidence their calls to reveal plans for the utility’s coalfired Spruce plants preceded an overdue public release of records. Was it happenstance CPS leaders who previously pooh-poohed a citizen rate-advisory committee pivoted on their “flexible path” and established one? Or that CPS Energy President and CEO Paula Gold-Williams vowed to “expand the conversation,” and ensure the utility ramps up communication with ratepayers? Post “Snowvid,” better communication and resident involvement is critical. SAWS leaders garnered a lot of support for their handling of the weather crisis, but SAWS Accountability Act political action committee leaders intend to continue pressing for a public audit of the controversial Vista Ridge pipeline project and more. All three grassroots movements made some good points, and failures during the freeze that crippled

the area focused awareness on transparency and communication. Clamming up when criticized is a lousy strategy, especially for publicly owned utilities. Activism, after all, isn’t a bad word. I’m proud to tell friends in other cities about an incident last summer I believe says a lot about how people take action here. Soon after George Floyd’s death at the hands of Minneapolis police, previously peaceful protests turned violent one night in Alamo Plaza. Here’s the part I love: After hearing about the rioting and looting, hundreds of regular people converged on downtown to sweep up broken glass, clean graffiti and fix anything they could. Like the innumerable individual acts of kindness during the power and water failures of the snowstorm, that was positive community activism in the finest sense. That’s the heart of San Antonio. The citizen groups petitioning for reforms at CPS Energy, SAWS and the San Antonio Police Department aren’t professional politicians or vandals. They’re showing up to help out on their own time, trying to improve situations they believe could and should be better. I don’t necessarily agree with all their ideas. I do believe their hard work and the legal, peaceful activism they practice are essential to a healthy democracy. 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.


Water

we doing to help? Suspending service cutoffs in this time of emergency.

Worrying about paying your water bill doesn’t need to be an added stressor during this time of uncertainty. Your neighbors at the San Antonio Water System want to make sure no family ever has to be disconnected because they can’t pay their bills. Our Uplift program eases the burden of paying your monthly water bill with 14 initiatives to assist customers who need a little help. Learn how SAWS helps ensure your water stays connected during times of emergencies and financial hardship by calling 210-233-CARE(2273) or visiting saws.org/uplift.


6

LOWDOWN

LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS MARCH 9 - APRIL 6, 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, noon to 2:30 p.m. and 3:30-8 p.m. Sunday and closed Tuesday. For more, call 210-8881228 or visit www.facebook.com/shifunoodle/.

HILLSIDE PRIMARY CARE, 6500 S. Flores St., debuted

Entrepreneur Chrystal Yi, who hails from Hunan, a southern Chinese province, moved to Texas in 2012 and eventually earned a master’s degree. She’s putting that know-how to work at Shifu Noodle, located in McCreless Market. Photo by Olivier J. Bourgoin

this third location offering general health services to current and new patients. The other sites are in Encino Park and Live Oak. This clinic accepts sameday and advance appointments. Hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. Visit www.hillsideprimarycare.com or call 210-742-6555 for more.

GRUB GAB: Tony G’s Soul Food plans a second location at 3875 E. Southcross Blvd. in Pecan Plaza May 1. While the new spot will resemble Tony G’s original East Side spot, plans call for more indoor and patio dining.

SHIFU NOODLE 3850 S. New Braunfels Ave., Suite 109

IN OTHER NEWS:

TERRAMARK URBAN HOMES PLANS TO BUILD Southlake, a 60 single-familyhome community in Brooks, near The Greenline linear park. “Brooks has all the key elements needed to deliver on the live-work-play model today’s buyers demand,” said Charles Turner, Terramark CEO. “We are excited to be part of their vision and pioneer for-sale housing at Brooks.” Added Leo Gomez, Brooks president and CEO, “Addressing the need for quality, market-rate housing in this region is a top priority. Partnering with Terramark allows us to better meet the growing demand for housing options on campus and further our evolution to becoming a walkable, urban district.”

HARLANDALE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT and local nonprofit Community Labs expanded COVID-19 testing to its staff and on-campus students starting Jan. 26. Community Labs’ PCR tests involve a 24-hour turnaround and a 95% accuracy rate, officials said. Parents must fill out a consent form for their child to receive weekly procedures. Testing for all pupils in extracurricular activities continues at the secondary level. Learners who are positive and asymptomatic must quarantine at home; those producing negative results may resume classroom sessions, educators said.

IN-PERSON LEARNING RESUMED FEB. 8 AT Harlandale Independent School District campuses after several weeks of virtual instruction. Health protocols remain at all HISD schoolhouses and offices. Physical distancing is still enforced in classrooms, with masks required. Educators continue to monitor health metrics for the district, city and county. For more, call 210-9894300.

DISTRICT 3 COUNCILWOMAN REBECCA VIAGRAN GAVE 250 ROSES to older persons for Valentine’s Day. Besides flowers, food distribution also took place at South Side Lions Senior Center and Our Lady of Angels senior center. “Our seniors were delighted to receive a valentine – it really warmed my heart,” Viagran said in a prepared release. Center members enrolled in the Senior Nutrition Program needing a meal may contact the city’s Department of Human Services senior center at 210-207-7172.

MISSION OUTDOOR THEATER AT BROOKS closed Dec. 30 after several months of operation. Owner Fred Reyes said officials didn’t renew the drive-in movie venue’s lease. However, he plans to reopen elsewhere in town this April.

CYNTHIA TENIENTE-MATSON, PRESIDENT OF TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY-SAN ANTONIO, recently was elected to the Girl Scout National Board of Directors. Teniente-Matson has supported the group by creating opportunities for local organizations, including Girl Scouts of Southwest Texas, and its partner patch program at the college, officials said.

FOLLOWING NEW FEDERAL REQUIREMENTS, ALL EMPLOYEES, VISITORS, CONTRACTORS AND PARTNERS now must wear masks at San Antonio Missions National Historical Park. Coverings are mandatory in all park buildings and facilities, convents, trails and sidewalks when physical distancing can’t be maintained, officials said. For more, call 210-534-8875 or visit nps.gov/saan. Find LOCAL Lowdown at www. localcommunitynews.com.


MARCH 9 - APRIL 6, 2021

HAPPENING

LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS

MARCH 9

visit https://www.facebook.com/ GoodKindSouthtown/events.

FORE!

MARCH

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

The 29th annual South Chamber Golf Tournament is 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. (noon shotgun) at Riverside Golf Course, 203 McDonald Ave. For updates, or cancellations, call Jessica Furdock with the South San Antonio Chamber of Commerce at 210-533-1600. To register, visit https:// southsanantoniochamber.chambermaster.com/ eventregistration/register/4132.

MARCH 11

SHARE A LAUGH The Good Kind Southtown, 1127 S. St. Mary’s St., presents stand-up comedians at 7 p.m. For entertainers, updates or cancellations,

The 29th South Chamber Golf Tournament featuring a noon shotgun March 9 originally was scheduled for Feb. 25. Raffle prize tickets are $5 for one or $20 for five. File photo

MARCH 11

NETWORKING BREAKFAST The South San Antonio Chamber of Commerce holds a networking breakfast every second Thursday of the month 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.

7

MARCH 13 & APRIL 3 FOR ART FANS

Southtown Arts District First and Second Saturday Markets take place at The Artisan, 1103A S. Presa St., from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For updates or cancellations of the event with crafts ad music, email shop@theartisansatx. com or call 210-962-5560.

MARCH 13

‘THE PEOPLE’S CLINIC’ The Estela Avery Education Center inside 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.

LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM

INTENT TO APP LY DUE APRIL 5, 2021 AT 5:00 PM (C ST)

INDIVIDUAL ARTISTS GRANTS

www.SanAntonio.gov/Arts


8

LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS

POLITICS

MARCH 9 - APRIL 6, 2021

Familiar names on May ballots by EDMOND ORTIZ

VOTERS CASTING BALLOTS in May 1 local races will see many elected leaders, past and present, vying for another stint in office.

In San Antonio, chasing a third term, Mayor Ron Nirenberg faces multiple challengers, most notably former District 6 Councilman Greg Brockhouse, whom Nirenberg beat in the 2019 mayoral runoff. Nirenberg has weathered criticism for the city’s response to the coronavirus pandemic, while also weighing calls for more police accountability. The former campus radio-station manager wants to continue initiatives he’s overseen, including those designed to boost workforce training and affordable housing. “I know that by working together, we’ll come back from this even stronger than where we started,” Nirenberg said. Job creation and economic development are among Brockhouse’s campaign priorities. “Recovery is all about jobs. We must take the approach that every job is important, both now and especially postTomas Uresti files at the City Clerk’s Office for the District 3 election May 1. April 1 is the voterregistration deadline, with early voting from April 19-27. Courtesy photo/Tomas Uresti

pandemic,” Brockhouse said. Other mayoral hopefuls are Ray Basaldua, Joshua Jones Galvan, Michael Idrogo, J. Miller, Frank Adam Muniz, Tim Atwood, Denise Gutierrez-Homer, Gary Allen, Antonio “Tony” Diaz, Justin Macaluso, Dan Martinez and John Velasquez. Term limits prohibit District 3 Councilwoman Rebecca Viagran from reelection, but her sister Phyllis Viagran will try to keep the seat in the family. Phyllis Viagran, a community outreach coordinator/trainer with Senior Planet’s local branch, helps older adults learn more about technology. Another District 3 contender is Tomas Uresti, a former state representative and brother of one-time state Sen. Carlos Uresti. Others are Stephen “Steve” Valdez, Rafael C. Vela, Diana Flores Uriegas, Rodolfo “Rudy” Lopez, architect Marcello Martinez, sales manager Ted Gonzalez, business-development representative Katherine Herrera Garza, business owner Walter Murray; Angela Cardona, an official with the nonprofit Avance; and Mark Arthur Vargas Jr., former counselor at Brooks Academy of Science and Engineering. Term limits also prohibit District 5 Councilwoman Shirley Gonzales from

seeking reelection. Eleven residents filed to succeed her: real estate agent and Lone Star resident Marie Crabb, 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. Also, San Antonio voters will mull two City Charter amendments. One repeals police officers’ collective bargaining rights, a goal for reformers. Some City Council members have questioned the second proposal, which would let the city issue bonds for permanent public improvements or others not prohibited by the Texas Constitution, including possibly building new homes or improving existing homes. In the Harlandale Independent School District, board Vice President Juan Mancha is the lone District 1 applicant. Orlando Salazar, who listed auto insurance and real estate as his professions, opposes District 2 trustee Christine Carrillo. Retiree Lillian Zapata and teacher Louie Luna are vying for the District 3 seat on the school board. Former trustee David Abundis faces current District 4 trustee and board President Norma Cavazos. Races in the San Antonio Independent School District include Lavaca resident and COVID-19 case investigator Sarah Sorensen, who opposes District 1 trustee Steve Lecholop, an attorney and King William Historic District resident. Systems engineer Leticia Ozuna and Judit Vega, food-justice coordinator with the Esperanza Peace & Justice Center, applied in District 3. April 1 is the voter-registration deadline, with early voting from April 19-27. eortiz@localcommunitynews.com Find this story and more at www. localcommunitynews.com.

HAPPENING continues from pg. 07

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/.

MARCH 15

HARLANDALE ISD BOARD MEETING Due to COVID-19, trustees will meet at 6:15 p.m. over Zoom. For a link, updates or cancellations, visit www.harlandale.net.

MARCH 16, 22

SAISD BOARD MEETING 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.

MARCH 16 & APRIL 6 ROTARY CLUB

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.

MARCH 18

SOUTHSIDE ISD BOARD MEETING Trustees hold a meeting at 6 p.m. at 1460 Martinez Losoya Road. For updates or cancellations, visit https://southsideisd.org/.

MARCH 18

STROKE SUPPORT A stroke support group meets from 2-3 p.m. at Southwest General Hospital, Classroom A, 7400 Barlite Blvd. The aim is to help stroke survivors, their families and caregivers. For updates or cancellations, and to RSVP, call 1-877215-9355.


MARCH 9 - APRIL 6, 2021

LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS

MARCH 19-20

NEW FILM FESTIVAL LAUNCHED City Base Entertainment, a locally owned, independent movie theater, will host the inaugural “A Night on the Big Screen” Film Festival. For more, call 210-531-3000 or visit gotocitybase.com/filmfestival.

MARCH 20 & APRIL 3 YOGA AT THE MISSION

Mission San José, 701 E. Pyron Ave., is the site of a free, one-hour community session at 10 a.m. Meet outdoors in front of the church or inside the granary during inclement weather. For updates or cancellations, call 210-932-1001.

MARCH 20

RUNNING FOR A CAUSE Spring Thing: 5K Run/Walk takes place at 8:30 a.m. at San Antonio State Hospital, 5900 S. Presa St. Proceeds will benefit the facility. For updates or cancellations, plus registration costs and start time, visit https:// runsignup.com/Race/TX/SanAntonio/ SASHSpringThing5K.

MARCH 20

MISSION MARQUEE MARKET A farmers’ and artisans’ market is 9 a.m. at Mission Marquee Plaza, 3100 Roosevelt Ave. During the coronavirus pandemic, this is a drive-thru with ordering done before directly through vendors. For updates or cancellations, visit https://www.missionmarquee.com/ EVENTS/Farmers-Artisan-Markets or call 210-207-3905.

MARCH 26

LOW-VISION EXPO The San Antonio Lighthouse for the Blind & Vision Impaired, 2305 Roosevelt. Ave., presents the 23rd Annual Low Vision Expo 2021 from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. over Zoom or call toll-free. There will be informative exhibits and devices from organizations and vendors who serve those struggling with sight. For updates or cancellations and to register, visit

HAPPENING

9

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BEGINNING IN MARCH MISSION MARQUEE PLAZA

Experience culture, art, education and more on the historic grounds of Mission Marquee Plaza, 3100 Roosevelt Ave. For updates and times, visit https://www.missionmarquee.com/ EVENTS/Cultural-Community-Events.

MARCH/APRIL SCHOOL’S OUT

San Antonio Independent School District students receive time away from classes March 5-22. Harlandale and Southside independent school district pupils enjoy Spring Break from March 8-12. Also, all campuses are closed April 2 (Good Friday). For updates or cancellations, visit your local institution’s website.

APRIL 2

OUTDOOR CONCERT The Good Kind Southtown, 1127 S. St. Mary’s St., hosts Michael Martin & The Infidels from 7-10 p.m. as part of its First Friday music series. For updates or cancellations, visit https://do210.com/events/2021/3/5/ first-friday-with-michael-martin-theinfidels-1611529563.

APRIL 5-JUNE 11

TECHNICIAN TRAINING For those 18 and older, a curriculum called TXFAST, or Texas Fame Accelerated Skilled Training, will be offered from 8 a.m. to noon weekdays at 2665 Flight Nurse St., Building 805 at Brooks. Learn skills in pneumatics, electrical components, gears, bearings, hydraulics and more. For details, call 210-4526959 or email info@txfame.com.

SUBMITTING EVENTS: Email all the details along with your contact information two months in advance to tips@ localcommunitynews.com.

LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM


10

LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS

HEALTH CARE SPECIAL SECTION

MARCH 9 – APRIL 6, 2021

Don’t let pandemic interrupt routine medical care by MIRANDA KOERNER

WHILE MANY TAKE EVERY PRECAUTION to limit COVID-19 exposure, experts say delaying standard medical visits such as dental appointments or annual checkups is unwise.

Medical professionals say they are witnessing patients putting health care on hold — from hearing tests to cancer screenings — often due to fears of contracting the novel coronavirus. Richard Whittaker, senior medical director and practicing physician with WellMed at Ingram Park, said even avoiding getting flu shots or canceling regular appointments could jeopardize overall health, particularly for heart patients or those with chronic conditions. “Patients should always get their preventative care because it’s proven that preventative care helps improve

long-term health,” Whittaker said. “Not getting lab work or exams to monitor and control chronic conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure poses a significant risk of having to go to urgent care, the emergency room or the hospital for treatment. These sites can expose you to a greater chance of getting COVID than in your primarycare clinic.” Hospital emergency rooms are for the critically ill or wounded, not routine medical maintenance, physicians said. “This unnecessary care further increases the risk of overwhelming our hospital systems where they’re already struggling to care for patients with COVID. People need to know it’s safe to navigate our health care system,” Whittaker said. Moreover, today’s technology enables

visits without going into the doctor's office. For those reluctant to travel to a medical building, many physicians and clinics offer telemedicine, such as CommuniCare Health Centers. A health care provider makes the diagnosis and treatment using remote or virtual technology, like an online consultation. These can replace many — but not all — consults by a practitioner or a provider. Dr. Carlos E. Moreno, vice president and chief clinical officer of CommuniCare Health Centers, said his company offers curbside and telemedicine visits ranging from family wellness to women’s health. “In the current era of COVID-19, having an annual physical or going to your doctor for medical care can be seen as another potential route of COVID-19 exposure,” Moreno said. “However, visiting with your physician for a routine checkup is a very important step in preventive care, and can help you improve your health. Your health care provider can sense physical or emotional changes in yourself that may signal a developing disease or a decline in health.” For the hard of hearing, masks that cover mouths and inhibit lip reading or volume levels can be an extra challenge, which is why audiology appointments are paramount, health care providers said. “We have a lot of patients that have

20% 27%

IN THE U.S. IN THE UNITED KINGDOM


MARCH 9 – APRIL 6, 2021

LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS

been struggling to communicate due to universal masking,” said Dr. Phallon Doss at Doss Audiology & Hearing Center. “They now realized they were not hearing well and relied on visual cues. Patients are very happy to be able to communicate again easily, even when others are wearing masks.” She’s pleased folks realize the value of regular exams, even during a pandemic. “We have also diagnosed several pediatric hearing losses that would have otherwise gone untreated if their parents had delayed care,” Doss said. Although many clients deferred appointments last spring at the outbreak’s outset, Pearl Molina of Cambridge Family Dental said they’re returning. “It’s important to keep up your regular, routine checkups because the doctor

HEALTH CARE SPECIAL SECTION

can find problems before it’s an acute or emergency situation,” Molina said. Fearing infection, many folks are bypassing gyms and studio classes, but physical therapists are seeing problems when those suffering from health issues shirk fitness. “Overall, people are generally moving less (and) working from home, (so they’re) less out in the community and that equals less exercise,” said Mike McTague, regional managing partner of Texas Physical Therapy Specialists. “Our biggest concern are the patients where movement and education are needed to reduce potential ‘chronicity,’ (like) low back pain, neck pain and general-extremity pain.” Postponements now could lead to trouble later, he added. “Long-term health will be affected if conditions and pain that effect movement

persist, such as chronic conditions of heart disease, (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), diabetes are all controlled with some form of consistent exercise. Physical therapy is designed to get patients back to moving,” he said. February was National Cancer Prevention Month, but according to GenesisCare officials, any time is right to highlight the importance of screenings. Reports indicate late-term cancer screenings have risen due to COVID-19, as patients wait until the last minute. Late-term cases jumped 20% in the U.S., and 27% in the United Kingdom, with an increased mortality up to 3.2%, according to officials. Dr. Trevor Lim with GenesisCare said he’s seen many people delay screenings, only to receive an updated diagnosis of

11

metastatic cancer, or spreading cancer. He said it’s estimated that thousands more could die of breast and colorectal cancers. But, Lim said, there’s still hope. “There is an elderly woman I met recently who was a survivor of three different cancers over the past 20 years,” he said. “When a spot in her lung grew suddenly, she quickly underwent the appropriate evaluation and was found to have an early stage non-small cell lung cancer. Because of her diligence in following her doctors’ recommendations, her cancer was caught before it had spread and we hope to put her in remission a fourth time.” Lim added, “Witnessing cancer success stories such as this one are especially encouraging during this pandemic.” Find this story and more at www. localcommunitynews.com.

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LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS

GROWTH

MARCH 9 - APRIL 6, 2021

BROOKS continues from pg. 01

to transform the former Air Force base into a thriving mixed-use development with new businesses, residences and educational and recreational opportunities. He also pointed to the success of Port San Antonio, the former Kelly Air Force Base. “Out of those (base) closures, we now have two economic generators — Southeast and Southwest (sides) — and they are a big part of the growth on the South Side,” he added. More than 3,200 people work at 40plus businesses operating at Brooks. Employers such as Amazon, Nissei Plastic Machinery America, OKIN BPS and Cuisine Solutions all have opened

or announced plans to go there. The campus is also getting more dining and entertainment spots, including La Gloria restaurant and a brewpub from Southerleigh Hospitality Group. Terramark Urban Homes intends to build 60 single-family houses near The Greenline linear park, adding to the burgeoning number of single- and multifamily living options at Brooks. The county is now planning a job-training facility at Brooks, in a building housing the Texas Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education, a local partnership of businesses, organizations and government agencies working to develop a pipeline of skilled talent. TX FAME is one of a handful of

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initiatives Wolff said would help boost local manufacturers such as Toyota Texas and Navistar. Based on the South Side, Toyota Texas is one of the city’s biggest private employers; Navistar is constructing a commercial truck, diesel engine and school bus assembly factory near Mitchell Lake, also on the South Side. Port San Antonio’s Plus One Robotics expects to expand its existing facility by 15,000 square feet. Sundt Construction is creating a $60 million innovation center there, too, including a 2,500-seat, multifunctional technology arena capable of accommodating various events. Slated to open early 2022, it will also be the permanent home of the San Antonio Museum of Science and Technology. “We’re growing fast at Port San Antonio. It’s huge in cybersecurity, and it’ll make a difference in bringing good-paying jobs here,” Wolff added. Elsewhere, Bexar County Commissioners Court this spring will consider creating 26.2 miles of trails for connection to San Antonio’s greenway network. The undertaking is part of the county’s total $240 million package of river and creek restorations. “Assuming our finances are OK post-COVID, which I think they will be, we’ll find out in April what can be done there,” Wolff added. Meanwhile, he acknowledged community members’ frustration about inaction at the former Lone Star Brewery, which many people see as ripe for a Pearl-like renaissance. However, transformation efforts

have repeatedly stalled in recent years. GrayStreet Acquisitions, a subsidiary of developer GrayStreet Partners, bought the property last spring. Wolff cited Commissioners Court’s recent decision to back the creation of a public-facility corporation, which as an economic development tool could be used to help rejuvenate the complex. “We’re trying new stuff here. We’ll see how it all works out,” he added. New Precinct 1 County Commissioner Rebeca Clay-Flores also attended the luncheon. Wolff complimented her: “(ClayFlores) has hit the ground running, and she actually comes to the office every day.” The commissioner said she desires more accountability and transparency in county governance. “Those who followed my campaign at all know the reasons why I ran — there were no women on Commissioners Court and because I was tired of this part of town getting left behind,” she added. Clay-Flores and newly elected Precinct 3 Commissioner Trish DeBerry are the first women to serve on the court since the 1990s. Meanwhile, the South San Antonio Chamber itself is entering a new era, as it pursues a merger with the West San Antonio Chamber of Commerce. For now, both are sharing staffs and discussing details. “The South Side is open for business,” South San Antonio Chamber President/CEO Al Arreola Jr. said about the luncheon’s theme. “We’re really organized to support each other.” eortiz@localcommunitynews.com Find this story and more at www. localcommunitynews.com.


MARCH 9 - APRIL 6, 2021

LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS

EDUCATION

13

‘Little Libraries’ spring up at SAISD schools by EDMOND ORTIZ

Not even a global pandemic can stall pupils, professionals and community supporters from distributing more books to San Antonio Independent School District learners.

The SAISD Foundation’s Book Buddies program is rolling out its version of the nationwide Little Free Library displays to benefit kindergarten through eighth grade students, allowing kids — and even adults — to find age-appropriate books at no charge outdoors at neighborhood campuses. “What I love about this effort is how it brings so many people together. It involves students both on the creation side and the receiving side,” said Superintendent Pedro Martinez. In 2014, SAISD Foundation volunteer Jane Welch founded the Book Buddies concept of providing volumes at no cost, which today has led to the creation of the little libraries. SAISD Foundation Executive Director Judy Geelhoed said Book Buddies is just one way the district and her organization help address childhood literacy and access to quality reading material. Nearly 90% of students in SAISD, a Title I school district, are economically disadvantaged. According to the foundation, many schoolchildren where the program is active come from living arrangements where books are scarce. Making them available at no charge sparks and increases a child’s interest in reading at their residence, Geelhoed said. “Not many kids have books at home, so it’s a way for them to start their own library at home,” she added. Book Buddies organizes drives to

collect children’s books in and around San Antonio. An international reseller, Better World Books, has donated tens of thousands. The little-library idea is an extension of the Book Buddies system, but with a twist. Staff from a campus may contact the foundation to request one. Students at Lanier High School’s construction program use donated materials to build mini-libraries, which are then painted and decorated by pupils at each institution. Teachers and foundation volunteers contribute some of the first books, and assist with beautification. The resulting creations are customized with different colors and themes. Geelhoed said letting youngsters assemble or put finishing touches on a little library makes them feel part of a worthy cause, which ultimately benefits the community. “When you build with a purpose, it makes things even better,” Geelhoed added. Lanier construction students BUDDIES continues on pg. 15

LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM


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LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS

EXPANSION

MARCH 9 - APRIL 6, 2021

RESTAURANT continues from pg. 01

Originating more than 40 years ago, the Tex-Mex chain wants to relocate the flagship eatery to bigger digs with new features for patrons at 3331 Roosevelt Ave., near Mission San José. The 7,800-square-foot site is a stone’s throw from its current home. Arthur Garcia, president of Nicha’s Comida Mexicana, said he hopes construction will start this spring. The fresh site will replace the existing 3,500-square-foot location at 3319 Roosevelt Ave., where original owners Gene and Dionisia “Nicha” Garcia transformed their business, Minit Taco, into Nicha’s in 1977. Nicha’s has other locales on the Northwest Side and Live Oak, but Garcia and his family long wanted to enlarge the first eatery. While the present space is landlocked, the latest spot is nearly 3 acres. The property allows the South Side institution to offer more room and other amenities for diners, including a patio, balcony, party room, dedicated stage for live music, full-service bar and parking for 200 vehicles. Instead of 136 customers, it’ll accommodate nearly 300. “We have no room for growth,” Garcia said of the old address. “What we have now is a very compact dining room. We also needed more parking.” Nicha’s currently serves beer and alcohol, but the expanded South Side location with a full bar will be better positioned to compete with the increasing number of restaurants and bars nearby, according to Garcia. The city’s Historic and Design Review Commission granted conceptual approval to the expansion project in January 2020. But the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, decelerated the approval processes required before construction. The undertaking, including purchase of the new property, is estimated to cost about $4 million.

A conceptual rendering shows a patio at the new Nicha’s Comida Mexicana at 3331 Roosevelt Ave. It replaces the existing restaurant a couple of blocks south on Roosevelt. Courtesy image/GRG Architecture

Last December, the City Council approved an agreement between the city, the Mission Drive-In Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone board, and the developer, R&A Garcia Properties. Under the pact, the Mission DriveIn TIRZ will reimburse a maximum of $600,000 over six years for specific public improvements the Nicha’s project produces at the latest place. Such betterments could include new public sidewalks or upgrades to existing sidewalks, enhancements to the public roadway and exterior lighting. The TIRZ funds would also apply to planned demolition of existing structures at the future Nicha’s site — a vacant gas station and former four-bay garage.

In addition, TIRZ money would cover funds the developer spends on bike racks, which Garcia said would be installed at the relocation. Garcia added the move provides neighbors and visitors a dining and drinking destination they “can just walk to from the missions or the Mission Reach.” The venue will also have decorative elements meant to highlight the heritage of the South Side missions corridor. “We are trying to get historical things into the building that will reflect the place and the history — things like the missions and Stinson (Airport) — things that make this the South Side,” Garcia said. Reviewing the project in 2020, HDRC

members applauded the conceptual renderings of the new site, saying the design would complement its surroundings. It was then Mission San José Neighborhood Association board member Jane Henry gave support. However, she had a few concerns, including incorporating more landscaping to act as a buffer, and building another barrier between the parking lot and residences. “I know Nicha’s would be interested in helping to protect those neighbors,” she added. eortiz@localcommunitynews.com Find this story and more at www. localcommunitynews.com.


MARCH 9 - APRIL 6, 2021

LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS

BUDDIES continues from pg. 13

produce about five depots a month. The first was delivered before the holiday break to Herff Academy, where eighth graders worked outdoors to personalize the repository. January saw deliveries to Franklin, De Zavala and Margil elementary schools, plus Bowden Academy, where learners spent time outside giving theirs a beach theme. The foundation plans to install several more libraries by the end of the school year, including at Mission and Steele Montessori academies. “It’s been a really great opportunity to bring (Book Buddies) to more students,” Geelhoed said. While the initiative focuses on school-age kids, residents are welcome to take reading material, too. The foundation also encourages donations of authentic Spanishlanguage books for children and adults. “This is our opportunity to serve the extended community,” Geelhoed said. COVID-19 has forced the foundation to slightly change its allocation process. With no book fairs, for example, the organization partners with SAISD transportation, library services and facilities employees to safely make distributions to families. The foundation’s Book Buddies program plans to serve a total of 35 kindergarten through eighth grade campuses and early-childhood centers by the end of the academic year. SAISD officials said the initiative is invaluable. “The little libraries are being handcrafted by construction-science students at Lanier High School and the beneficiaries are our younger

learners,” Martinez said. “The teamwork continues with the SAISD Foundation, our educators and facilities team ensuring the libraries are installed on campuses, stocked with books and painted to match a campus theme.” District 3 trustee Debra Guerrero described the depositories as community hubs, which have also become neighborhood pantries during the coronavirus outbreak. “I believe these little libraries help build better and healthier communities,” Guerrero said. “I encourage anyone who wants to support this initiative to reach out to the SAISD Foundation to learn more about volunteer opportunities, such as sorting children’s books by age groups, which then fills these little libraries with more reading adventures for our little ones,” she added. For more, visit https://www. saisdfoundation.com/book-buddies. eortiz@localcommunitynews.com Find this story and more at www. localcommunitynews.com.

Snow & ice

EDUCATION/SEVERE WEATHER

other agencies are doing the same. Municipal and state leaders also have demanded accountability from state government and energy providers. San Antonio achieved record low temperatures — all below freezing — Feb. 14-16, and two of the biggest snowfalls in at least 36 years. Spurred by a unprecedented high demand on power, CPS Energy and other providers statewide were ordered by the Electric Reliability Council of Texas, the state’s grid operator, to implement rolling blackouts to stabilize Texas’ energy supply. But rolling blackouts, coupled with damaged or frozen equipment, produced extended power outages, exacerbating conditions and

Meanwhile, San Antonio is looking at setting up an emergency fund to help residents recovering from property damage;

LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM

frustrating customers. Mayor Ron Nirenberg promised San Antonio will help residents, many of whom now face the prospect of high utility bills and repairs to broken water pipes. The City Council has grilled leaders of the San Antonio Water System and CPS Energy, both city-owned utilities, saying the agencies should have been better prepared ahead of the storm, and must do better to communicate with customers in emergencies. Nirenberg, his counterparts and Gov. Greg Abbott also slammed ERCOT for its response to the severe wintry weather. Abbott asked state lawmakers to order and fund winterizations of power plants and other equipment statewide.

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