LOCAL: Hollywood Park, Hill Country Village, 78247, 78232, 78216 August 2014

EAT LOCAL

Seafood delight

pg. 17

Oysters, salmon, shrimp and more. Bill Miller's Laguna Madre delighting dinners on the North Side

COMMUNITY NEWS

pg.12 HILL COUNTRY VILLAGE:

DEVELOPERS EYE NEW LAND, EXPANSION Vol. 2, Issue 9

HILL COUNTRY VILLAGE

HOLLYWOOD PARK

north central

78216 78232 78247

AUGUST 2014

What's

INSIDE your community

pg.14 Venturing

program adds adventure — and girls — to Boy Scouts North Side crew looking for more young-adult recruits to join ranks

fantastic deals

coupons INSIDE Discover the city through LOCAL deals from restaurants, retailers and services in your community, and save money while you do it! pg. 19 pg. 19 www.salocallowdown.com

pg.10 DISTRICT 9

PUTTING CODE VIOLATIONS IN THE CROSSHAIRS pg.15 Major

improvements coming to Gold Canyon Park Upgrades part of comprehensive plan for North Side green spaces

pg.13 Synchronized

swim team is like ‘family’

local Mayor Julián Castro's commentary move to HUD SUSAN YERKES and what lies ahead PG. 03

2

AUGUST 2014

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From the editor tedwards@salocallowdown.com

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ART Creative Director Florence D. Edwards Production Designer Pete Morales Contributing Photographers Aiessa Ammeter and Rudy B. Ornelas Contributing Illustrator Jeremiah Teutsch Advertising Account Manager Fanny Hardee Controller Keith Sanders READER SERVICE Mailing Address 4204 Gardendale Ste. 201 SA, TX 78229 Phone Fax (210) 338.8842 (210) 616.9677 Advertising Inquiries rupton@salocallowdown.com Story Ideas tips@salocallowdown.com Website www.salocallowdown.com LOCAL Community News publications Zone 1: 78204, 78205, 78209, 78210, 78212, 78215 Zone 2: 78213, 78230, 78231, 78248, 78249 Zone 4: 78109, 78148, 78233, 78239 Zone 5: 78108, 78132, 78154, 78266 Zone 6: 78258, 78259, 78260, 78261 For advertising, customer service or editorial, please call us at 210-338-8842 or write to us at: Local Community News 4204 Gardendale Ste. 201 San Antonio, TX 78229 Reproduction in whole or in part without our permission is prohibited, 2014 Helen Publishing, LLC and Local Community News, LLC, all rights reserved.

Make us part of conversation

I

have lived in San Antonio since 1964, often moving away but always lured back. On each return, I am amazed by how much the city has changed — and yet stayed the same.

Change is inevitable, and hopefully the ones San Antonio is seeing are all for the good. Some would argue otherwise, of course; streetcars, anyone?

The topic of change invariably sparks a neighborhood conversation.

At LOCAL Community News, we want to be a part of that conversation.

The growth of the Internet has created a host of online forums letting folks chime in on developments in their neighborhoods. Some observations are right on target, but others veer into speculation and rumor.

Comments are rarely filtered for accuracy.

That’s where these screeds differ from journalism, which is based on solid reporting, verification of facts and multiple points of view.

LOCAL embodies impartial, unbiased reporting. That’s why we want to be a part of your neighborhood conversation.

We offer news, not diatribes.

Keep us in mind when you know of a hot topic. Drop me a line at tedwards@salocallowdown.com or email tips@salocallowdown.com.

Thomas Edwards executive Editor

CORRECTION: Susan Yerkes’ column

on “Shrinking Blue Hole Reflects Water Woes” in the June edition should have stated the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word borrowed money and paid George Brackenridge for land, rather than being given the acreage that became part of the University of the Incarnate Word. facebook.com/salocalcommunitynews

3

salocallowdown.com

local commentary

Castro’s move up, and what lies ahead by susan yerkes

B

y the time you read this, Julián Castro could be picking art for his office as head of the Department of Housing and Urban Development in Washington, D.C., and San Antonio will have a new mayor.

gen-Z

Castro’s easy confirmation was no surprise, nor was the fact President Barack Obama tapped him for the position.

Our Julián is, after all, widely touted as one of the brightest rising stars in Democratic politics. Slightly more of a surprise was that his confirmation was not unanimous, as was that of one of Castro’s avowed role models, Henry Cisneros, to the same Cabinet post back in 1993.

Twenty-six out of 45 Republican

senators, including Texan Ted Cruz (but not John Cornyn), voted against Castro.

Castro follows Cisneros as the second San Antonio mayor named to a president’s Cabinet, and the fact that both were asked to helm HUD has generated comments about stereotyping. However, Castro could have made the leap to D.C. a couple of years back, when Obama offered him secretary of transportation.

But with the SA2020 push for downtown housing just gaining serious traction, and the citywide vote on Pre-K 4 SA looming, he chose to stay in town to wrap up those “legacy” projects.

Anyway, Castro is headed for D.C. with wife Erica, daughter Carina and their new baby-in-waiting. Most pundits agree it’s a smart move. The fact is that no matter how hard Dems wish, most agree the Lone Star State isn’t turning blue. The new role allows Castro to travel the country and solidify his D.C. and national connections.

Some observers also suggest the HUD job is a better transitional position should the Democratic presidential nominee (read: Hillary Clinton) pick Castro as a vice-presidential running mate.

But that decision rests on too many other factors, including who ends up on the GOP ticket. Cruz and retiring Gov. Rick Perry both are said to be

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jockeying for that role. If the GOP goes with Cruz, Castro would make for great balance on a ticket with Clinton.

For now, it’s most likely Castro has no definite plans, except to do the best job he can at HUD. A Cabinet job is a good place for an upwardly mobile public servant to make a difference. It’s also a much better jumping-off place for higher office than another mayoral term. He’ll also be closer to brother Joaquín, now a well-liked and established congressman, and that will likely bring them even more attention in D.C. While family dynasties are nothing new in politics, it’s the first time twin brothers have simultaneously held such visible positions in U.S. government.

Meanwhile, Castro’s departure has really ramped up local politics.

Candidates who want to be the next full-term mayor — including any City Council members — should be ready to face state Rep. Mike Villarreal, a

The fact is that no matter how hard Dems wish, most agree the Lone Star State isn’t turning blue.

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bright, popular Democrat who has indicated he will resign his seat in the Legislature to campaign next spring.

County Commissioner Tommy Adkisson, who lost his bitter run against incumbent County Judge Nelson Wolff, has also expressed interest in the seat.

And a few pundits have suggested that if state Sen. Leticia Van de Putte, another Democrat, isn’t serving as Texas’ lieutenant governor next spring, she, too, might decide to seek the office.

However, with so many folks apparently positioning themselves to become S.A.’s head honcho, who knows? Here’s a wild thought: Maybe if things don’t work out for Cruz, Perry or even Clinton, we could see them running for S.A. mayor. Just kidding!

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AUGUST 2014

OUR TURN Views and opinions about your community

Keep minors from buying e-cigarettes

T

he city is moving in the right direction to prohibit minors from purchasing liquid nicotine and electronic cigarettes.

A proposal recently floated by San Antonio District 7 Councilman Cris Medina only regulates the sale of such products to children under 18, just as minors are barred from purchasing alcohol and tobacco until they are old enough to make responsible decisions on their own.

Far too often government oversteps its boundaries and indulges in too much regulation, but in this case the proposed ordinance makes sense.

Medina’s suggestion does not alter the city’s existing smoking ordinance, only targets the sales of liquid nicotine and electronic cigarettes to minors.

The city is not saying retailers cannot sell e-cigarettes and flavored liquids, only that minors cannot buy these items.

Research cited by Medina notes that many of the flavors correspond to bubblegum, chocolate, cola and cherry, which makes them appealing to children.

Let the kids buy bubblegum, not bubblegum-flavored nicotine.

While it is true e-cigarettes use lower levels of nicotine than traditional cigarettes, nicotine is still considered by the medical community as a habit-forming substance, and no more appropriate for a 10-yearold than a whiskey sour or a cigar.

Our Founding Fathers correctly supported the values of a free-market economy, with consumers’ purchasing powers deciding which merchants rose and which ones fell. But there are times when some oversight is needed to protect our youth.

However, now that Medina is taking temporary leave from the council for military duty, the fate of the proposal is uncertain.

We applaud and champion the right of e-cig businesses to sell these products and make a profit, because it is the adult consumer — not the government — who will decide the fate of such enterprises.

But from a moral and health standpoint, sales to children of these items must be prohibited.

-the Local Community News editorial board includes Harry Lees, Gregg Rosenfield and Thomas Edwards.

COL SION C R

9800 N. San Pedro North of Loop 410 COL SION C R

Happening LOCAL

Plan your month with our calendar of upcoming events in the community.

OUR GUIDE TO YOUR MONTH

happening key

JAVA WITH JOE Starting in August, meet each Wednesday with District 9 Councilman Joe Krier at his field office, 16500 U.S. 281 North at Thousand Oaks Drive, Suite 290, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Private appointments can be scheduled during the first hour, opendoor sessions are the second hour.

For information, contact Constituents Chief Adam Trevino at adam.trevino@ sanantonio.gov or 207-0955.

ONGOING

SCHOOL BOARD Trustees of the North East Independent School District are scheduled to meet 6:30 p.m. at 8961 Tesoro Drive. To confirm dates and times, call 407-0553.

AUG 11

AUG. 11-13

PEP SQUAD SUMMER CAMP The North East Independent School District’s annual

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FOOD

North East Pep Squad Summer Camp for incoming freshmen takes place at Blossom Athletic Center, 8 a.m.-3 p.m. each day of the camp. Students will learn cheers, chants, dances and jumps. A performance showcase is 2 p.m. on the last day. Parents and friends are invited to attend. The center is at 12002 Jones Maltsberger Road. For more, contact Diana Schumacher at dschum@neisd.net.

SUMMER GRADUATION The ceremony for North East Independent School District summer graduates is 7 p.m. in the auditorium at Reagan High School, 19000 Ronald Reagan Drive. Information for summer graduation is available through students’ home high schools. Reservation forms must be submitted by Aug. 7 and all

AUG 12

Happening continues on pg. 05

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salocallowdown.com HAPPENING continues from pg. 04 NEISD and state graduation requirements must be met to take part in the ceremony.

Rehearsal attendance is mandatory and takes place 6 p.m. Aug. 11 at Reagan.

WILDLIFE WEDNESDAYS Call it Rock ’n’ Reptiles: These two programs for children 5 to 10 years old explore fascinating elements of the natural world. On Aug. 13, it’s Rocks & Fossils, which looks at the varieties found in Texas. Aug. 20 offers Ramblin’ Reptiles, which explains reptiles’ characteristics and how they’ve adapted to droughts. Both run from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. in the Salado Classroom near the eastern entrance to Phil Hardberger Park, 13203 Blanco Road. Both include a craft and a nature walk. To enroll a child, call 207-3280 or email Susan.Campbell@sanantonio.gov.

AUG 13 aug 20

CULINARIA RESTAURANT WEEK This segment of the celebration of San Antonio food spotlights noteworthy restaurants.

Participating eateries will offer three-course fixed-price menus that feature skillful food/wine pairings in two price ranges — $10 lunch/$25 dinner or $15 lunch/$35 dinner. They include Habanero’s Grill, 12234 Nacogdoches Road; Kirby’s Prime Steakhouse, 123 N. Loop 1604 E.; Myron’s Prime Steak House, 10003 N.W. Military Highway; The Melting Pot, 14855 Blanco Road; and Umai Mi, 555 W. Bitters Road.

Reservations are recommended, and should be made with the individual restaurants.

AUG 16 aug 23

EVENING AGLOW MEETING Aglow, a Christian “transformational kingdom” group, meets the third Tuesday of the month for fellowship, song and an inspirational message. The gathering starts at 7 p.m. at Anne Marie’s Catering, 12475 Starcrest Drive (at Bitters Road). Everyone is welcome. For more, go to www.aglow.com.

AUG 19

CHRONIC PAIN SUPPORT GROUP Meetings take place the third Wednesday of the month at Baptist HealthLink, 188 W. Bitters Road, from 4 to 6 p.m. One main topic per hour is covered in the group discussions, which may be large or small. A syllabus and more information are available at http:// chronicpainsupportsa.wix.com/cpsgsa.

AUG 20

AUG 25

SCHOOL STARTS Classes resume at campuses of the North East Independent School District.

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facebook.com/salocalcommunitynews

Elsewhere in San Antonio SAN ANTONIO COMIC CON A slew of sci-fi, fantasy and out-of-this-world fan favorites ranging from Peter Mayhew — Chewbacca of “Star Wars” — to William Shatner of “Star Trek,” John Barrowman of “Torchwood” and “Doctor Who,” Lawrence Gilliard Jr. of “The Walking Dead” and many others are scheduled for the event “where pop culture comes to life” at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center, 200 E. Market St. For times, dates, tickets and more, visit http://www.wizardworld.com/.

AUG 1 - Aug 3

STUFF-A-BAG SALE This event, which benefits the Boysville Thrift Store, promises to offer a “thrifting bonanza” with shoppers paying just $5 for everything they can fit in one bag. Wares include clothing, accessories, toys, books, movies, home décor and more.

As an extra bonus, everything in the store is discounted 30 percent on Stuff-a-Bag Sale day. All proceeds from the bag sale will benefit the scholarship fund for Boysville youth. For more, contact Jonnie Stefano at 826-2195 or email jonnieboysville@gmail. com. Regular store hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Monday through Saturday at the shop, 307 W. Olmos Drive. The thrift store supports Boysville Inc., which provides physical, spiritual, mental and social needs to children and youth in crisis due to abuse at home.

AUG 1 - Aug 3

MOBILE CHECK DEPOSIT Security Bank has been serving the needs of Texans since 1928. With the latest in banking technology services, such as Mobile Banking with access to Mobile Check Deposit, we design “solutions” with our customers in mind. Come see why we are the preferred community bank in San Antonio.

MATISSE AND PICASSO: A FRIENDLY RIVALRY The McNay Art Museum serves up an exhibition of two 20th-century masters. Works by Pablo Picasso and Henri Matisse in a wide range of media – even their prints and theater designs – allow comparison of their styles and a glimpse of how they may have influenced each other. Admission, including to this exhibit, ranges from $5 to $10. The museum, which is at 6000 N. New Braunfels Ave., is open Tuesday through Sunday.

through aug. 10

JOIN THE BAND Teens age 13 to 18 who are interested in sharpening their skills in music and stage performance can apply to be a member of the Parks and Recreation Department’s Take Note youth band. A CD or DVD of the teen showcasing his or her instrumental or vocal talent must accompany applications, which are due

by Sept. 26; a full list of requirements can be found at www.sanantonio.gov/ parksandrec/music_classes.aspx. Live auditions will determine who is selected for the award-winning musical group, which will perform around the city.

THROUGH SEPT 26

Happening continues on pg. 06

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AUGUST 2014

HAPPENING continues from pg. 05

program, which runs all of August, offers a variety of cowboy-themed activities.

Ballet San Antonio Season The resident ballet company at the new Tobin Center for the Performing Arts will launch its new season with “Dracula” Oct. 16-19. Following that is the holiday favorite “The Nutcracker,” Nov. 28-Dec. 7; “Romeo & Juliet,” Feb. 12-15; and “Balanchine” March 27-29. Season tickets start at $99. For more, or to purchase tickets, go to http://balletsanantonio.org/.

THROUGH march

VEXLER THEATER SEASON The Sheldon Vexler Theater at the Barshop Jewish Community Center has announced the lineup for its 16th season. The opening production is “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest”; “The Trojan Women,” “Talley’s Folly” and “Rumors” follow. Season tickets are on sale now: $68 for general admission, $65 for seniors (65 and over) and military, and $60 for JCC members. They can be purchased online through a link at www.jccsanantonio.org.

aug 23 - may 30

IMPROVE YOUR SWIM

aug 11, 18, 25 TECHNIQUE FOR TRIATHLETES sept 8

Even if you’re just working on fitness, this class will teach proper freestyle stroke mechanics and help improve overall efficiency and control in the water. The classes, which are for adults 18 and older, run from 7:15 to 8:15 p.m. each Monday at the pool at Barshop Jewish Community Center, 12500 N.W. Military Highway. For the cost and to reserve a place, use the link under Fitness and Wellness/New & Upcoming Classes at www.jcsanantonio.org or call 302-6909.

BAT LOCO BASH There will be plenty of information and education about bats, but there also will be kid-friendly activities, live

AUG 12

The dreaded but alluring bloodsucker himself — Count Dracula — swoops in for a series of performances this fall at the new Tobin Center for the Performing Arts as Ballet San Antonio launches its new season. "Dracula," based on the popular Victorian-era vampire novel by Bram Stoker, is Oct. 16-19 with choreography by Artistic Director Gabriel Zertuche. Courtesy photo

music and food trucks. Not to mention the emergence of tens of thousands of Mexican freetail bats from their roosting site under Interstate 35 downtown. The event runs from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at Camden and Newell streets and caps off a season of bat-watching gatherings along the Museum Reach of the San Antonio River.

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It’s also an official event of Kidcation – a Convention & Visitors Bureau program of events Aug. 8-17, coupled with special offers on lodging and dining.

The Institute of Texan Cultures joins in, admitting everyone for the children’s ticket price of $6 during Kidcation. ITC’s Wednesday and Sunday Vaquerocation

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FIGHTING HUNGER TexasMobilePack and Feed My Starving Children are seeking volunteers to help pack 4 million meals for hungry children overseas during a six-day event Sept. 25-30. The goal is to line up 20,000 volunteers to work two-hour shifts at two local sites.

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an advertorial from

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LOCAL LOWDOWN Take a quick look at what’s new in the community from opening and closings to news tidbits.

Open and Opening Soon

Address of local business Name of local business

1. BILL MILLER’S LAGUNA MADRE SEAFOOD CO. NO. 4, 18195 U.S. 281

3. BAVARIAN BRAUHAUS, 300 W. Bitters Road at West Avenue, is celebrating a grand opening. The menu features authentic, house-made German cuisine prepared by executive chef Robert Blake, along with German beer on tap. Hours are 11 a.m to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday. For more, call 396-7170 or visit www.bavarianbrauhaus.com.

4. CORRIE’S KARATE, 512 Heimer

North, took over the old Bill Miller’s barbecue spot at 281 and Loop 1604 and is fast catching on with the locals. The menu features fried and grilled seafood, plus other selections including gumbo, sandwiches, tacos, salads, meals for the landlubber and children’s plates. For more, call 314-3019. (See story on page 17)

2

3

2. INVERARTE ART GALLERY, 923 N.

Loop 1604 East, Suite 103 in the Waterford Village shopping center, is the store’s recently opened second location. It features the work of Mexican masters, science-fiction surrealism, hyperrealism, abstractionism and magical realism. Hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and by appointment only on Sunday. For more, visit www. inverarteartgallery.com. (See story on page 16)

Road, is "female taught" and offers cardio kickboxing, Zumba classes and mixed martial arts featuring Japanese karate, kung fu and self-defense.

Hours are 6 to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday. For more, call 639-9496.

1

IN OTHER NEWS

4

THE NORTHEAST CORRIDOR REVITALIZATION PLAN recently approved

by City Council encompasses an area of 1.8 square miles and focuses on two key commercial corridors to encourage reinvestment in the area: Perrin Beitel Road from Loop 410 to Thousand Oaks Drive and Nacogdoches Road from Thousand

LOWDOWN continues on pg. 08

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Sometimes churches try to spend time making it seem like everything is perfect. You get the idea from visiting those churches that they are full of people who have it all together. That is a lie. I am not saying that churches don’t have answers, but our answers are never going to be perfect, not until ar we get to meet God later. In the meantime, we weren’t meant to be perfect, we were meant to be together.

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8 LOWDOWN continues from pg. 07 Oaks to O’Connor Road. “This plan is a guiding document that articulates a new direction for the Nacogdoches and Perrin Beitel corridors,” said Michael Taylor, interim assistant director for the city’s Department of Planning and Community Development. Officials say the project will help restore vitality to the area by activating vacant and underutilized properties, re-establishing community-serving retail and service businesses, and improving the appearance of buildings, signs and parking lots. A landscape beautification campaign is under way, a second business development meeting is set for late August and the city is pursuing a dedicated source of funding for future improvements.

“Approval of this plan is outstanding news for the businesses and neighborhoods on or near the corridor,” said District 10 Councilman Mike Gallagher. “I sincerely appreciate the support of my fellow council members in getting our revitalization effort started. These improvements are long overdue and will have profound and positive effects throughout this section of San Antonio.” For more, visit www.northeastcorridorsa.com.

DISTRICT 9 COUNCILMAN JOE KRIER chose not to seek the interim mayor’s position with the departure of Julian Castro because “having just been elected on May 10, I have made a commitment to the residents of District 9 to serve out the remainder of former Councilwoman Elisa Chan’s term,” he said in a news release.

The deadline to file for the slot was July 16. Castro’s nomination by President Barack Obama to head the Department of Housing and Urban Development was confirmed in July by the Senate, opening a vacancy for the mayor’s seat on City Council. Krier originally was appointed last fall when Chan stepped down from District 9 in a failed bid to seek the GOP nomination for state Senate District 25, which went to incumbent Dr. Donna Campbell, R-New Braunfels. Krier then ran in a special election May 10 to fill the remainder of Chan’s term, which expires in May 2015. “Between now and then, I intend to work hard to meet the needs of District 9,” Krier said. “Specifically, from now until mid-September, I am working on a basic-services budget that provides for the best police and fire we can afford, and also supports improved streets and drainage, parks and libraries.” He is a member of the council’s Economic Development, Quality of Life and Education committees.

He also serves on the Committee of Six, which oversees workforce development efforts in the region.

NORTH EAST INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT TRUSTEES approved pay raises

AUGUST 2014 for NEISD workers, effective for the 201415 school year, during the board’s June 16 meeting. School board members followed the recommendation of Superintendent Brian Gottardy by approving the following measures: Increasing salaries for teachers and librarians with up to five years of experience to $49,288 per year, a 3 percent salary hike for professional/administrative staffers; and a 4 percent pay increase for classified employees. The district will spend more than $9 million providing raises, officials said. “There is no doubt that our employees deserve this pay increase,” Gottardy said. “We must continue to recruit and retain the most highly qualified staff in order to sustain the district’s tradition of excellence. Our employees are the reason our students are so successful.” NEISD, with close to 70,000 students, is the secondlargest school district in San Antonio.

THE CITY’S NIGHTTIME CURFEW FOR MINORS — or those 17 and younger — remains in effect during the summer, according to a reminder from District 10 Councilman Mike Gallagher. The curfew hours are 11 p.m. to 6 a.m., though exceptions exist for teens who are working, helping a parent or performing certain other vital functions.

THE TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION has launched a pilot program to test a variable speed-limit system, which includes sites on Loop 1604. Modifying speed limits may improve safety, and could serve as a forerunner for other state roadways, officials said.

Using sensors and electronic signage, the maximum speed is altered to fit road conditions, traffic congestion, construction and weather. “We know other states have benefited from variable speed-limit systems and we would like to mirror that success here in Texas in an effort to reduce crashes,” TxDOT Executive Director Joe Weber said. “This advanced technology has been shown to lessen stop-and-go driving and help reduce rear-end collisions as drivers approach slower moving traffic.” TxDOT began adjusting speed limits along westbound 1604 between U.S. 281 and Interstate 10 on June 25.

Varying speed limits, posted on portable signs, are automatically reduced in small increments to gradually lessen the speed of traffic approaching congested areas.

TxDOT said the tests would be assessed after at least three months, and a decision made whether to expand the technology.

STEUBING RANCH ELEMENTARY SCHOOL fifth-grade students recently enjoyed a fun-filled State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness Pep Rally, featuring

LOWDOWN continues on pg. 09

9

salocallowdown.com LOWDOWN continues from pg. 08 members of the San Antonio Scorpions soccer team, according to the North East Independent School District. Scorpions players Billy Forbes, Jonathan Borrajo and Julius James, along with the team’s account executive, Rodrick Clarke, offered words of encouragement to the students, most of whom took the third administration of the STAAR exam the next day. According to an NEISD release, “The message of the day was simple — no excuses.” Summer School Principal Chris Specia, Assistant Principal Ashley Preston and family specialist Adriana Rivera helped coordinate the pep rally, with assistance from other staff members.

THE MADISON HIGH SCHOOL BAND didn’t stop working hard after school let out — but band members did have some fun in June performing at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Fla. According to school officials, a highlight of the trip included performing in a parade down Main Street and around Cinderella’s Castle at Disney’s Magic Kingdom.

The young musicians also participated in the “You’re Instrumental” workshop at Disney’s Epcot, the second of four theme parks built at Disney World. According to a press release,

“The students had a guest clinician, who is a professional Disney musician and music educator, spend nearly three hours working with them. He discussed the process behind recording professional motion-picture sound tracks, and took students through a selection of music from ‘The Lion King.’”

The school had to submit recordings and DVDs as part of the selection process to participate as a featured band in the parade.

The Madison band takes an out-of-Texas trip every two years, with the most recent excursion involving 125 students, 16 chaperones and a dozen family members.

JUSTIN OXLEY has been named as the new principal of Churchill High School. He is the former principal of Bradley Middle School. Both campuses are in the North East Independent School District. The Texas Association of Secondary School Principals named Oxley the Outstanding Principal in Region 20 for 2013. His background includes serving as an athletic director and working as a choir teacher. He holds a master’s degree in education from Our Lady of the Lake University.

SECURITY SERVICE FEDERAL CREDIT UNION is breaking ground for a new branch, moving from its Rolling Oaks

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Mall location to a nearby pad site, officials said. The new branch, located at 6907 N. Loop 1604 East, is expected to open in the first quarter of 2015. The 4,800-squarefoot interior will feature seven private offices and safety deposit boxes; outside, there will be four drive-thru lanes and a drive-up automated teller machine.

MORGAN’S WONDERLAND WILL HONOR SPECIAL-NEEDS VOLUNTEERS, setting an Aug. 1 deadline for candidacies for its 2014 Walk of Fame. Saluting those who have championed programs for San Antonio’s special-needs community, volunteers will be recognized during a “Free to Soar Gala” on Sept. 19, with their names added to a Walk and Roll Path, which encircles an eight-acre lake at the theme park. A committee comprising members from Morgan’s Wonderland, The Gordon Hartman Family Foundation and advisers to both organizations, will review nominations of not more than two typewritten pages submitted to WalkofFame@MorgansWonderland.com.

Instructions are available at the park’s website, www.MorgansWonderland. com. Sponsorship information and other details about the gala are available from Becky Thomas at 493-2811. For more, call 495-5888 or toll-free at 877-495-5888.

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AUGUST 2014

VIOLATIONS continues from pg. 01

311 app for smartphones helps upkeep

by BAIN SERNA

O

fficials are urging District 9 residents to report code violations so neighborhoods can find solutions for broken fences, unsecured pools, vacant homes in disrepair and any other area hazards.

Though code-compliance transgressions are few in the subdivisions packed into the North Side, maintaining properties helps avoid fines and even prevents accidents, according to city leaders.

“We have 180,000 people represented in District 9,” City Councilman Joe Krier said. “We rely on neighborhood associations to contact us, and tell us, if there is a problem. If there is, usually we can do something about it.”

One such organization is the North Central Thousand Oaks Neighborhood Association,

Although code-compliance transgressions such as vacant homes falling into disrepair are rare in District 9, officials said calling the city or using the 311 app on a smartphone to report problems is the first step in keeping neighborhoods safe and tidy. Photo by Aiessa Ammeter

encompassing about 2,000 homes.

Larry Lamborn, NCTONA president, conducted a recent walk-through of a neighborhood with District 9 Constituents Chief Adam Trevino and officials from the city’s Development Services Division to emphasize some codecompliance issues, including dwellings no longer occupied by their owners.

These are classified as homes without current owners living in them, officials said.

“We have three within a pretty large area,” Trevino said. “They are few and far

between, and usually it’s a homeowner that’s living out of state or someone who has a different residence and their vacant home falls into disrepair.”

Some become public-safety concerns because they start to deteriorate and can be infested with rodents and other animals, creating a health hazard, officials said.

“The vacant homes are an issue,” Trevino said. “At one of the vacant homes the fence was down and there was an

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salocallowdown.com VIOLATIONS continues from pg. 10 empty swimming pool in the back.

We’re making them put the fence back up. It was a security and safety issue.”

In addition, the shabby, unoccupied homes can turn into a problem for neighbors who keep their own homes and yards neat; they also may be trying to sell their residence and don’t want property values to suffer, officials said.

Absentee homeowners are notified by letter and told what needs to be fixed or corrected to comply with city codes.

Without matters addressed, heavy fines, court action or other penalties may ensue, according to the city.

Many neighborhood associations also have mandatory covenants governing a home’s appearance, the types of grass permissible for planting, where to park vehicles and other rules. Breaking these bylaws can lead to thorny legal disputes, though the Legislature in the last few years has given homeowners more protection.

Other District 9 code-compliance issues involve vehicles and yard maintenance, according to Ken Brodeen, the NCTONA neighborhood appearance and code enforcement official.

“I would say the two biggest issues are overgrown lawns to the extent of

over 12 inches for grass and weeds,” Brodeen said. “The second thing would be illegally parked vehicles.”

Homeowners with untidy yards receive a notice and can also have a small, red flag placed on the lawn to catch their attention, Brodeen said. If notices go unheeded, code-enforcement officers may issue fines.

“We bend over backwards to help notify people, but some people still don’t comply,” he added.

Examples of illegally parked vehicles include recreational vehicles stopped in front of a residence for more than one day, as well as boats and trailers parked in driveways and at the curb.

“If it’s parked illegally they’re given a warning and they have to move it within 24 hours,” Brodeen said. “Unfortunately a lot of people don’t move it, really. They back it up three or four feet and leave it at that.”

NCTONA is different from a homeowners association. A traditional HOA has its own rules and standards, in addition to the city’s regulations; NCTONA only follows municipal codes.

“It’s not a neighborhood-association rule,” said Brodeen of the codeenforcement standards. “Actually, we don’t have any rules. All we have is the communication and standards of the city-code enforcement.”

As a whole, code violations in District 9 are not a big problem, according to Krier’s staff. Simply, neighbors helping each other instead of getting the city involved can handle many of the infractions, according to Trevino.

He cited the example of an elderly person who may have difficulty mowing a lawn or taking out trash. In such cases, neighborhood associations can be notified and volunteers can offer assistance.

“It doesn’t have to reach the point that the city has to send somebody out there to fine a person,” Trevino said. “We want to know about that so we can offer assistance.

I think of it as a good-neighbor policy.”

Residents who wish to report a code violation can dial 311.

Also available is a 311 app for smartphones, which helps residents communicate code compliance and other issues to city officials.

“The 311 app on smartphones are the best tools for us to use because they create work orders, they help city staff track what’s going on; be it a pothole, a vacant home, a loose dog,” Trevino said. “The only way the city can find out what our needs are, and where those needs are, and making sure that city staff is going out there and addressing them in a timely manner, is when those work orders are created.”

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BITTERS ROAD continues from pg. 01

Parcel could provide extra tax revenue for city

by LUCILLE SIMS THOMAS

H

ILL COUNTRY VILLAGE — Officials considering the fate of 14 empty acres owned by the city now valued at $1.4 million say any development could help offset future budget shortfalls.

Two businessmen — one of them a councilman — have suggested very different proposals for developing the land at Bitters Road and South Tower Drive, once considered a possible site for a new City Hall.

Harry Jewett of Harry Jewett and Associates envisions a gated subdivision with one-acre lots, with the possibility of a drug store at the corner of West Avenue and Bitters.

Place 5 Councilman James Allen of Allen Investments sees the property as a commercial site built in a joint venture with the city.

AUGUST 2014 Allen said he will step down from City Council if his plan creates a conflict of interest, though he would prefer not to do so.

Another option may be leaving the land undeveloped, at least for now, although the city — which is primarily residential — is seeking ways to boost tax revenues if more funding is not found, Mayor Gabriel Durand-Hollis said.

“This all came up because of a town hall meeting,” the mayor said. “We discussed roads, long-term planning and various other things. Somebody said, ‘Well, we can raise taxes.’ Most people don’t want to go there until they’ve explored everything else.”

Added Durand-Hollis, “I don’t have a preference on what I’d like to see (built on the land). I think the citizens will be making a decision on what to do with the land.”

The city’s options are being reviewed by the Economic Development Corp. and the zoning board.

During a recent presentation to the council, Allen left the dais and appeared before the city’s leaders just as any other resident would, by facing them.

Allen said property owners adjacent to the land must be involved in the decision about what to do with the acreage.

“I think it’s germane to talk to several of the immediate neighbors that touch the property — I think there’s five —and I’d

like to talk to them,” he said. “I think we need to get their input and ask them if they would like commercial or residential.”

Addressing concerns about a possible conflict of interest, Allen said the city’s legal advisers have said, “As long as I don’t vote or comment on the other developments, then that’s fine.”

He added he has been bringing up this topic for years — long before he became a councilman.

Under Allen’s proposal, the city maintains the land forever.

“I’m trying to look out for Hill

I’m trying to look out for Hill Country Village. I really want to be an independent party JAMES ALLEN, HILL COUNTRY VILLAGE COUNCILMAN

Country Village,” the councilman said. “I really want to be an independent party.

I’m very proud of what I proposed.”

He also wants to make it clear he does not want to leave his council seat if he doesn’t need to.

“I don’t want to resign – I love it there and I really don’t want to resign. But if that makes it better for the city, then I will,” Allen said.

Jewett said a commercial project will bring in more tax revenue for the city, but he agrees the parcel’s neighbors should be involved in the decision about what to do with the land.

He proposed an agreement allowing Hill Country Village to share revenue from his development.

At a June 24 meeting, the city’s EDC heard both Allen’s and Jewett’s proposals for the land, but made no decision.

In the meantime, Durand-Hollis said there have been discussions about other land in the city’s extraterritorial jurisdiction and how the town could best benefit from those.

“There is still some land that is around us that is not in San Antonio, but not in Hill Country Village,” he said. “So if we can get some of that land in our ETJ to be participating in the city, it lessens the pressure on doing something with the empty land that is over on Bitters.”

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salocallowdown.com SWIM continues from pg. 01

Cygnets team celebrating a golden anniversary

by ARTHUR SCHECHTER

T

esting the waters for social interaction six years ago, a preteen Halle Neisen joined the Cygnets of San Antonio — a synchronized swim team — and created lasting friendships while improving her athleticism.

San Antonio Sports Hall of Famer Margaret Swan in 1964 founded the Cygnets, which draws girls from all across San Antonio.

“I knew nothing, but I figured it out pretty quickly and just stayed for a really long time,” said Neisen, a 15-year-old Reagan High School sophomore.

Teammate Megan Brasfield, 17, first dipped her toe in the Cygnets’ pool at age 10, via a coach’s invitation.

“She asked me if I wanted to go to one of their annual water shows … I went that

Members of the Cygnets synchronized swim team say their training not only improves athletic prowess but also forms lasting friendships that make the girls feel like a family. The North Side-based organization is celebrating a golden anniversary this year. Courtesy photo

night and fell in love,” said the Churchill High School senior. “I got to go backstage and meet all the swimmers, so I instantly connected with some of the girls.”

The current clutch of Cygnets (another name for young swans), 30-plus girls, ages 5-19, considers everyone sisters.

“We see each other all the time and we tell each other everything,” Neisen said.

“It’s not friendship; it’s family,” Brasfield added.

Neisen said she has enjoyed a sense of sisterhood against the backdrop of training and competition, creating special moments.

Cygnets head coach Melodie Wallace has been the mother swan since the last century.

“I don’t think kids at that age realize the life lessons that it does teach,” Wallace said. “They can carry these aspects on with them through life.”

While Alamo City denizens lounged poolside Fourth of July weekend, more than a dozen Cygnets headed to a Seattle natatorium for nationals, after qualifying for the meet with high marks at spring regionals.

The Cygnets executed figure elements and routines accompanied by music – lasting typically 3 1/2-4 1/2 minutes – as a part of a team (four to eight members), trio, duet or solo. Synchronized swimmers performing individually equates to musically supported figure skating or gymnastics’ women’s floor exercises.

It marked the third time to attend nationals for Neisen and Brasfield; Cygnets’ teams received mostly middle scores.

However, Brasfield, who qualified with her duet partner for her first international meet — in Las Vegas, also in July — termed the opportunity “exhilarating.”

If things go well, she could eventually win a collegiate athletic scholarship.

“It’s those little feelings you get along the way of how proud you are of yourself for accomplishing something that you’ve worked so hard for all these years,” Brasfield said. “When you’re in

competition, you just want to think about having the best swim to your ability.”

“Our coach is really set on us just having a good time,” Neisen added. “I guess that’s all you really can think about in a sport like this, because either way, if you had a good time you’re basically winning.”

The Cygnets meld physical attributes associated with several sports and recreation.

“The perfect synchronized swimmer would obviously be someone who is flexible and strong like a gymnast, but also graceful like a ballerina. Long, skinny legs help … and the endurance of a speed swimmer,” Wallace said.

“It’s very much more of a complex sport than what people normally assume,” Brasfield said. “If you were a dancer, it would be very easy for you to transition into synchro.”

While Cygnets operate yearround, they realign for new seasons in August to prepare for their annual fall water show, where they anticipate celebrating the club’s 50 years.

Schedules vary seasonally, but expect a total of 10 hours of practices, four times a week, usually at the pools of Alamo Heights High School or the University of Incarnate Word. For more information, visit the team’s website at cygnetssa.org.

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AUGUST 2014

SCOUTS continues from pg. 01

Leadership part of Venturing

by COLLETTE ORQUIZ

A

North Side Boy Scout program called Venturing open to both male and female young adults interested in high adventure and community service is seeking more members.

Venturing Crew 285 meets the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month at 7 p.m. at the McAlister Scout Lodge on the grounds of Coker United Methodist Church, 281 E. North Loop Road. Many members attend private schools, but others are drawn from Churchill High School. “(We) do a lot of camping, hiking, backpacking (and) go to high-adventure bases,” said Sofia Miranda-Fred, programs vice president. “(We) make sure everyone develops as a leader and gets a good outdoor experience.”

Venturing Crew 285 is an offshoot of Boy Scout Troop 285, but unlike many other Scouting activities, it is coed.

Venturing Crew 285 is a coed branch of the Boy Scouts of America, with members focused on community service and high adventure including travel, camping, hiking and more. Courtesy photo

Sofia, 16 and a student at TMIThe Episcopal School, remembers grumbling a few years ago that she wanted to share fun Scouting activities with her younger brothers, only to learn from her father that she could.

A handful of Boy and Girl Scouts came together four years ago with common ideas and goals to create Venturing Crew 285.

Originally called Explorers, Venturing Crews trace their goals and philosophies to the early days of Scouting.

The program is open to males and

females 14 to 21 years old, or boys and girls 13 years old who have completed the eighth grade. The purpose, according to Scouting officials, is to provide positive experiences that help members mature and to prepare them for a life as responsible and caring adults.

Venturing — Scouting’s fastest growing program, officials said — was officially created by the Boy Scouts of America’s executive board on Feb. 9, 1998.

Venturing Crew 285 is aiming for an influx of new members, said J.B.

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Marshall, a 16-year-old Saint Mary’s Hall student in charge of membership.

John Thomas, a physician and the adviser for the crew, said members chose the group’s focus.

Venturing Crew 285 reached a consensus to concentrate on high adventure and community service.

Venturing is still relevant in the 21st century, Thomas said.

“Anything that gets the kids an opportunity to get outside and experience the outdoors and also gives them a platform in which to do service is helpful to them,” Thomas said.

Sofia wishes that everyone could join Venturing.

“Some people have this idea in their head of what Scouting is. I know when I was younger I had an idea of what Scouting was,” Sofia said. “Now I look at Scouting and I’m like Scouting is what I see in the mirror. I am Scouting.”

Each year the group attends a high-adventure base, as well as plans the trip for the next year. At the end of July the crew visited Colorado, where they went white-water rafting, rock climbing, mountain biking, hiking, camping and more.

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salocallowdown.com GOLD CANYON continues from pg. 01

Goal is to preserve land now, Krier says

by ERIC MORENO

I

mprovements coming to Gold Canyon Park on the North Side are in keeping with the city’s commitment to improve public green spaces based on input from the public, District 9 Councilman Joe Krier said.

“Fifty years from now, I don’t want the children of District 9 to say that we didn’t do enough for park procurement and improvements when we had the chance,” Krier said during a recent public forum to discuss park upgrades.

Gold Canyon Park is off Corporate Woods on Gold Canyon Drive.

The city has touted a philosophy of adding to and/or improving green spaces for several years now. The other North Side parks slated for improvements or undergoing upgrades already are Hardberger, Panther Springs and Stone Oak. “When I was chosen as city councilman for this district last year, one of the things

GOLD CANYON PARK UPGRADES n Bidding starts in November; construction begins February 2015 and finishes a year later. n Initiative is consistent with City Parks System Plan. n Improvements include trailhead and a trail system, a one-mile loop, an entry drive, a parking lot, park signage, drinking fountains and benches. n Exercise equipment possible.

SOURCE: City of San Antonio

I discovered that was a pleasant surprise was how strongly the residents here feel about wanting more park facilities,” Krier said. “What they want is two things — one is more parks and two is improvements to the parks they have.”

Gold Canyon Park is 72 acres of undeveloped land. In 2010, a private citizen donated 65 acres of the land with the goal of one day turning the area into a city park. San Antonio bought an additional seven acres to add to the site.

Starting in 2015, using funds made

MATTRESS & FURNITURE

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available by the 2010 bond program, improvements to the park are scheduled to begin at an estimated cost of $1 million.

According to Krier, improving Gold Canyon Park was always an important project and money had always been earmarked for it.

The goal is to make Gold Canyon Park a pleasant destination for decades to come, as well as an example to future generations of San Antonians on the importance of natural spaces to the city, Krier said.

“The planned improvements will make the land a natural-areas park,” said Tish Williamson, a spokeswoman for District 9. “This initial round of improvements will create a trailhead and a trail system, approximately a one-mile loop, an entry drive, a parking lot and possibly install exercise equipment.”

Other improvements include park signage, drinking fountains and benches. The feedback gathered at the recent public meeting will be used in finalizing the project’s overall design.

“Any future improvements to the park will be decided on through public input through the Parks and Recreation Department,” Williamson said. “Bidding for the Gold Canyon Park project is scheduled to take place in November of this year with construction scheduled to

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begin in February 2015. The estimated date for completion is February 2016.”

The proposed improvements are consistent with the current City Parks System Plan.

The new walking trail and addition of parking spaces in Gold Canyon Park, for example, will allow anyone to get around the area. In its current state, the park is not open or accessible.

“As the city grows and becomes more urban, natural space will become harder and harder to get,” Krier said. “A century from now, people will not remember what we paid for Gold Canyon Park.

They will remember that we (the city government) had the vision to acquire that land for future generations.”

Krier also cited the city’s acquisition of Hardberger Park as an example of the forethought San Antonio has given towards maintaining green spaces and natural areas.

In District 10, $700,000 is earmarked for Comanche Park to pay for additional parking, exercise equipment and trails in the shadow of the park’s landmark tower.

“There will never come a time where we can, as an example, demolish a subdivision and revert it back towards natural land,” he said. “You have to get that land and preserve it now before it disappears forever.”

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by BAIN SERNA

A

search for artwork from Mexican painters of the past 200 years no longer entails a south-of-the-border trek, thanks to Inverarte Art Gallery.

The local exhibition opened in December at 923 N. Loop 1604 East, Suite 103, in the Waterford Village shopping center, while the original is in Mexico City.

It’s no coincidence the San Antonio gallery is located on the far North Side, an area increasingly becoming home to well-to-do Mexican nationals.

“We have now a collective exhibition showing many different and interesting artists,” said gallery founder and director David Adberstein. “The Inverarte Art Gallery vision is focused in two areas.

The first one is to create a cultural bridge between the United States and

Mexico to promote 21st century Mexican and American artists. The second one is to be a support for collectors of 19th and 20th century Mexican masters’ art in the United States.”

Adberstein hails from a family of artists and art collectors, and 20 years ago came up with the inspiration for Inverarte, which has showcased works by Alexandre Monntoya, Carlos Vivar, Ixreal Montes, Gustavo Valenzuela, Pablo Weisz Carrington, Rafael Vallejo, Rolando Rojas and Vincent Figliola.

Adberstein believes art is a high form of personal and cultural expression, and added Inverarte Art Gallery is meant to be an exposition of masterpiece paintings true to that form.

“Art is a cultural expression in itself.

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salocallowdown.com Bill Miller's Laguna Madre Seafood Co. features grilled and fried seafood, such as the grilled fish and Mexican-style shrimp plate (far left) and the fried fish-andshrimp combo plate (left). There are also oysters, salmon, soups and salads. Photos

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Laguna Madre rides wave of seafood success

by EILEEN PACE

T

he fourth in a series of recent seafood ventures by the Bill Miller family is serving up platters at U.S. 281 North and Loop 1604.

Bill Miller’s Laguna Madre Seafood Co. opened in March in the remodeled building where Bill Miller Bar-B-Q did business for many years. The barbecue eatery relocated to a site just yards away.

Laguna Madre has many similarities to the barbecue outlet, with walk-up food service and inside dining for about 90 guests.

The restaurant is at 18195 U.S. 281 North.

Kimber Moore, assistant comptroller at Bill Miller’s corporate office, said, “You might consider it quick-service because there’s a drive-thru. But in the scheme of things, everything is cooked fresh-to-order, so it takes a little bit longer to get your food.”

The company has three other Laguna

Madre restaurants in San Antonio.

This is the first North Side location.

Barbara Newman, the company’s comptroller, said Miller started his first barbecue restaurant in San Antonio 60 years ago, and the company remains a family business, now run by the four children.

“The Millers are all fishermen, and like to fish and like seafood, so I think it was a natural progression for them,” Newman said.

The seafood fare includes cod, salmon, shrimp, oysters and catfish prepared fried, grilled, with lemon pepper or Mexican-style.

Newman said fish tacos are popular, made with grilled cod, cabbage, avocado and a traditional or chipotle sauce on a corn tortilla.

“Our fried products are the most popular,” Newman said. “And, we sell a lot of shrimp. Texas Browns, they’re called.”

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“They’re made in our commissary bakery and served warm at the restaurant,” Moore said.

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78216

78232

78247

Median sold price

JUN-13

$112,500

$216,000

$156,000

JUN-14

$153,000

$210,000

$161,125

New listings

JUN-13

52

70

114

JUN-14

54

56

115

Average days on market

JUN-13

98

60

64

JUN-14

76

50

54

Closed sales

JUN-13

29

62

85

JUN-14

26

40

78

Under contract

JUN-13

30

55

78

JUN-14

37

39

76

Months supply of inventory

JUN-13

3.9

2

2.2

JUN-14

3.6

2.7

2

Source: San Antonio Board of Realtors: Texas Market Trends report The properties are new listings put on the market from June 2014. The properties may no longer be on the market by publication date or prices may have changed.

Local Community News assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions.

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If enrolled, you may be reimbursed for parking and travel expens For more information, please contact: If eligible tomedication. participate, you will be seen by a study doctor and receive diabetes Foreligible more information, contact: study-related and medication at noblood cost.please You maytesting be if your sugar is not well-controlled and you are CONSANO CLINICAL RESEARCH, If eligible to eligible participate, you will be seen aLLC study doctor and receive study-related testing You may be if your blood sugar isby not well-controlled and you are more information, please contact: with metformin and If being enrolled,treated you may be reimbursed for parking and sitagliptin. travel expenses.

CLINICAL RESEARCH, LLC For being treatedCONSANO with and sitagliptin. and medication at metformin no cost.

210-545-4900 CONSANO CLINICAL RESEARCH, LLC 210-545-4900 For more information, please contact: Ifeligible eligible to participate, you be by a study doctor If to you participate, you will be will seen by seen a study doctor and receive and receive Consano.Research@gmail.com If enrolled, may be reimbursed for parking and travel expenses.

CONSANO CLINICAL RESEARCH, LLCmedication Consano.Research@gmail.com study-related testing and at no cost.210-545-4900 study-related testing and medication at no cost.

210-545-4900 Consano.Research@gmail.com If you may may beThank reimbursed parking expenses.

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Do You Have Type 2 Diabetes?

Janssen Research & Development, LLC

Consano.Research@gmail.com

Thank you. Volunteers are critical to diabetes research.

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For more information, please contact:

CONSANO CLINICAL RESEARCH, LLC CONSANO CLINICAL Janssen &RESEARCH, Development, LLC LLC 210-545-4900 Janssen &Research Development, LLC Janssen Research Research & Development, LLC 210-545-4900 Consano.Research@gmail.com

4204 gardendale Ste. 201 SAN ANTONIO, TX 78229

Thank you. Volunteers are critical to diabetes resear

Thank you. Volunteers are contact: critical to diabetes research.

For more information, please

Volunteers are critical to diabetes research.

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