LOCAL: Castle Hills, Shavano Park, North Central, 78213, 78230, 78248, 78249 December 2014 by San Antonio Local Community News

PG.14

SHAVANO PARK BURGLARIES ARE DOWN EYES AND EARS OF RESIDENTS HELP LOWER CRIME Neighborhood Watch, volunteer coordination and police bicycle patrols have positive impact

PG.19 Lee High B.E.S.T.

robotics team gears up for future goals Students have gone to state competitions the last nine years

COMMUNITY NEWS VOL. 3, ISSUE 7

CASTLE HILLS

SHAVANO PARK

NORTH CENTRAL

78213 78230 78231 78248 78249

DEC. 15 - JAN. 10, 2015

WHAT'S

INSIDE YOUR COMMUNITY

PG.22 Musical

wizard strikes the right notes in Castle Hills

Tom Masinter is a pianist, composer, music teacher and awardwinning performer

Hardberger Park

LAND BRIDGE Former mayor has civic project he wants to sell you PG.16 PG. 25 BUY LOCAL ROCK'S VITAMINS-N-MORE

PG. 27 EAT LOCAL ZOË’S KITCHEN

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. 31

New store is billed as the 'King of Supplements' on North Side

Restaurant offering Mediterranean dishes opens third SA location

PG.13 Castle Hills

gives go-ahead to repairing a dozen streets A million dollars will go to work that can be easily done, mayor says

DEC. 15 - JAN. 10, 2015

FROM THE EDITOR tedwards@salocallowdown.com

President Harold J. Lees Publisher Gregg Rosenfield

VP/Sales Anna Davis

Assoc. Publisher Rick Upton EDITORIAL Executive Editor Thomas Edwards News Staff Collette Orquiz, Bain Serna and Will Wright Contributing Writers Olivier J. Bourgoin, Ron Aaron Eisenberg, Joyce Hotchkiss, Eric Moreno, Eileen Pace, Travis E. Poling, Lucille Sims Thomas and Susan Yerkes ART Creative Director Florence D. Edwards Production Designer Pete Morales Contributing Photographer Rudy B. Ornelas Contributing Illustrator Jeremiah Teutsch ADVERTISING Advertising Director Jaselle Luna Zone Manager Marc Olson Controller Keith Sanders READER SERVICE Mailing Address 4204 Gardendale Ste. 201 SA, TX 78229 Phone Fax (210) 338.8842 (210) 616.9677 Advertising Inquiries molson@salocallowdown.com Story Ideas tips@salocallowdown.com Website www.salocallowdown.com LOCAL Community News publications Zone 1: 78204, 78205, 78209, 78210, 78212, 78215 Zone 3: 78216, 78232, 78247 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.

Keeping a proper perspective

he media doesn’t always do a good job of policing itself, instead often focusing on being first instead of being right. That’s thanks in part to the hurly-burly mentality of today’s Web-fed, 24-hour news cycle. A case in point is the changing tone of stories about the Ebola virus. When the first news accounts about Ebola in America began to emerge, TV anchors, Web outlets and even some print publications made it seem like a viral apocalypse was just hours away. Then, as more health care workers faced quarantine upon returning from Africa, the tone of news stories turned scolding, castigating the government for being overly cautious. Adding insult to injury, media reports chided officials for creating a scare. In all honesty, it was the media — especially television and the Web — that manufactured the scare. Shark stories are another example. Attacks are few and far between, but media accounts play up even the smallest incident to make it seem like Jaws is rampaging. In both cases, it’s not always the government that shoulders the blame for fueling hysteria. It’s the news media. Driven by pressure to secure ratings, increase page views and shore up dwindling readership, accounts of potential threats become sensationalistic narratives that would scare the socks off anyone. Here at LOCAL Community News, we try to slow things down a bit, assess the issues, solicit informed commentary and take a reasoned approach to subjects. We don’t always get it right (who does?) and not everyone agrees with us, but our intent is to offer news without hyperbole. So keep on reading and we’ll keep on delivering. In the meantime, from those of us at LOCAL to you and your cherished ones, happy holidays.

THOMAS EDWARDS EXECUTIVE EDITOR FACEBOOK.COM/SALOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS

SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM

LOCAL COMMENTARY

Ebola hyperbole: A plague of panic by SUSAN YERKES

s anybody else out there sick of hearing doomsday Ebola predictions?

Don’t get me wrong — Ebola is a terrible disease, and the situation in several African countries, where thousands have died, is serious indeed. Thomas Eric Duncan’s death from the disease in Dallas, and the subsequent infections (and happily, recoveries) of a couple of health care workers, have rightly spurred hospitals and medical professionals to review and revamp their protocols for diagnosis and treatment. The fact is, here in South Texas, your chances of winning the lottery are a thousand times greater than your chances of getting Ebola. And yet politicians

continue to proselytize, and plain folks continue to worry, about the medical menace the word Ebola conjures. “It’s human nature, that people are fascinated with things that are frightening. All the hospitals have developed detailed protocols and plans in the remote event that Ebola does show up. But there are much more pressing health problems in San Antonio, like diabetes and obesity,” said Carl Blond, a respected San Antonio physician and chief of staff at Connally Memorial Medical Center in Floresville. This time of year, there’s another health problem we can all do something about. “As we head into the winter months, with kids back in school and people traveling for the holidays, respiratory illnesses like influenza are a much more serious concern for us in terms of infectious disease. And many of those can be prevented by vaccinations,” said Dr. Thomas Schlenker, director of health for the San Antonio Metropolitan Health District. Unlike Ebola, flu and other airborne diseases spread quickly, even when the carriers aren’t manifesting symptoms. Older folks and the youngest are particularly at risk. The Centers for Disease Control recommends adults and children 6 months or older should get vaccinated every year. You don’t even have to go to the doctor to get a

flu shot. They’re everywhere, from Walmart to Walgreens. All insurance plans cover flu shots, and for those without insurance, the $30 or so the shot costs is a good investment in terms of potential lost time at work. Yet according to Metropolitan Health statistics, fewer than 40 percent of adults in Bexar County got their flu shots last year. I know folks who fret about terrorists with Ebola sneaking across the border, or believe we should quarantine anyone flying to the United States from Africa. Many of them have never gotten a flu shot, and many of them get —and quite possibly spread —the flu almost every year. Vaccines offer simple and highly effective protection from many diseases, from mumps and measles to hepatitis and pneumonia. But they only work if you get vaccinated. Pertussis, or whooping cough, manifests as a cough in adults, but can be deadly for infants. In the past few years the reported rates in Texas have increased more than fivefold. But very few adults ever get vaccinated for it. It’s good news that nearly 70 percent of children in Bexar County have all the required vaccinations by age 3. Unfortunately,

according to the U.S. Department of Health, at least 90 percent of children need to be vaccinated to effectively protect the population. Adults aren’t required to get vaccinations, and many don’t. Taking care of our collective health is a task that begins with individuals, and there’s more we can do. Infectious diseases may be dangerous, but there are plenty of bigger dangers. Here in San Antonio, adult diabetes is epidemic, and it’s affecting younger people at higher rates than ever. Over the last decade, city planners and health professionals have worked hard to spread the gospel of exercise and balanced nutrition, and the city’s famously high obesity rates have begun to fall. But it takes time and work to change unhealthy habits, and we still have a long way to go. So next time you read headlines about the terrors of Ebola, try not to stress. That’s enough to make you sick. Instead, think about the serious diseases closer to home, and what we can all do about them. Get vaccinations, wash your hands and practice healthy living, one day at a time. Email Yerkes at syerkes@ salocallowdown.com.

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Getting a clear picture on body cameras

he use of body cameras should be embraced by area law enforcement agencies not already equipped with the devices.

The cameras provide a clear record of what actually transpires during an encounter between law enforcement and the public. Police should welcome the cameras, since they are another tool to help clear an officer when someone files a false complaint about police conduct. Those on the other side of the camera should also know their every action is being taped. Some area departments including Alamo Heights already use the devices. Officers there have readily adapted to the cameras. Since March, 150 San Antonio Police Department officers have participated in a pilot program involving the cameras. Police Chief

William McManus has said the cameras are a sound move and is making recommendations to City Council. The cameras, which have been around for a while, took center stage in the national spotlight after a black man was shot by a white officer in Ferguson, Missouri, sparking several days of civil unrest. Most of the protest probably would have been averted if a video recording of the encounter existed. On the national level, leaders are also pushing for police departments to utilize the small cameras, which are easily clipped on the sleeves, vests or shirt seams of an officer’s uniform. The decision on whether to use body cameras should be decided by local departments working with elected representatives and citizens’ groups. While there are privacy concerns that must be addressed, we live in the age of smartphones, YouTube and security cameras, so public recordings are nothing new. Using body cameras should become just another tool for police to do their jobs. -The Local Community News editorial board includes Harry Lees, Gregg Rosenfield and Thomas Edwards.

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DEC. 15 - JAN. 10, 2015

HAPPENING LOCAL

Dress for Success, The Battered Women’s Shelter, Fischer House, Haven for Hope, Goodwill and Boysville. The sale is in the Gurinsky Family Social Hall, 16550 Huebner Road, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 10 and Dec. 11. No checks or credit, cash only. For more, call 479-0307.

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

OUR GUIDE TO YOUR MONTH

HAPPENING KEY

FITNESS

BLUE SANTA The Castle Hills Police Department is collecting new or gently used toys to be distributed to area children in need at Christmas. The toys can be dropped off in the foyer of Castle Hills City Hall, 209 Lemonwood Drive, during regular business hours.

THROUGH DEC 24

STRIVE TO SURVIVE Master naturalist and wildlife educator Tom Kinsey brings his live animals to Phil Hardberger Park to demonstrate animal adaptations. Hold a friendly snake, hissing cockroach, tree frog, dove and the sweetest rats in town. Open to the entire family. No registration is required and a kid-friendly craft is included. The event is 9 to 11 a.m. at the park’s Urban Ecology Center, 8400 N.W. Military Highway. Cost is free, but donations are appreciated. For more, call 207-3280 or 492-7472.

DEC 6

ART

TALK

OUTDOOR

MUSIC

FOOD

SCHOOL BOARD MEETING Trustees of the North East Independent School District meet 6:30 p.m. on the second Monday of each month at 8961 Tesoro Drive. To confirm dates and times, call 407-0533.

DEC 8

DEC 9

CASTLE HILLS The City Council meets at 6 p.m. in City Hall, 209 Lemonwood Drive.

NORTHSIDE ISD Trustees of the Northside Independent School District meet at 7 p.m. at district headquarters, 5900 Evers Road.

DEC 9

ANNUAL SISTERHOOD DEC. 10 ESTATE/THRIFT SALE - DEC 11 Congregation Agudas Achim Sisterhood will hold an estate and thrift sale to benefit programs and schools at Congregation Agudas Achim as well as

Youth Office at 302-6859. The JCC is at 12500 N.W. Military Highway.

HOLIDAY 5K RUN/WALK ‘14 Fiesta Castle Hills presents this annual event 8 a.m. at The Commons, between Lemonwood Drive and Honeysuckle Lane, with the first 100 paid participants getting a T-shirt. The early entry fee is $20 a runner, but that goes up to $25 on the day of the event. There will be water, juice and fresh fruit available, and first-place awards in male and female categories. For more, contact Rick Huizar at 344-9507, email fiestacastlehills.texas@ gmail.com or visit www.fiestacastlehills.org.

DEC 13

“THE MUSICAL ADVENTURES DEC 13 OF FLAT STANLEY” The - DEC 14 Nova Youth Theatre Troupe presents the musical for family, friends and the community at the Barshop Jewish Community Center. Showtimes are 7 p.m. Dec. 13 and 4:30 p.m. Dec. 14. For ticket information, call the FACEBOOK.COM/SALOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS

HOLIDAY DECORATIONS Deerfield Holiday Decorations judging is set for the evening of Dec. 13 and awards will be given Dec. 14. Categories include most elegant, best overall lights, best holiday theme, best children’s theme, most unique and honorable mention.

DEC 13 - DEC 14

SNOW DAY Residents of Castle Hills are urged to bring their cameras to capture the memory of kids playing in snow at this event, sponsored by the Castle Hills Community Organization. The event starts 2 p.m. at The Commons, between Lemonwood Drive and Honeysuckle Lane.

DEC 14

DEC 22

SHAVANO PARK The City Council meets at 6:30 p.m. in City Hall, 900 Saddletree Court.

WINTER HOLIDAYS The campuses of the North East and Northside independent school districts are closed for the holiday break and New Year’s Day.

DEC 22 - JAN 2

HAPPENING continues on pg. 07

ADMISSIONS OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY, JANUARY 24

Program begins at 9:00 AM RSVP requested 210.492.3553 MSSA admits students of any race, color, religion, and national or ethnic origin.

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SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM HAPPENING continues from pg. 06 STRAUSS FESTIVAL PANEL DISCUSSION The discussion is paired with a chamber concert at 6 p.m. in the Barshop Jewish Community Center’s Holzman Auditorium. Admission is free. San Antonio Symphony Music Director Sebastian Lang-Lessing; Steven G. Kellman, professor of comparative literature at the University of Texas at San Antonio; Maxine Cohen, Holocaust educator; and David S. Gross, president of the San Antonio Symphony, will discuss and take questions from the audience. The JCC is at 12500 N.W. Military Highway. For more, call 308-6820.

JAN 4

ST. GEORGE EPISCOPAL CHURCH MENTAL HEALTH FAMILY SUPPORT GROUP The gathering takes place the second Wednesday of the month at 7 p.m. in the meeting room of the Parish Building (near the nursery). Patients and their family members, friends and providers are all welcome. St. George is at 6904 West Ave.

JAN 14

ELSEWHERE IN SAN ANTONIO

“FIDDLER ON THE ROOF” Tevye the dairyman struggles to keep his family together and stay true to his Jewish traditions in a

THROUGH DEC 22

musical set in tsarist Russia and based on the stories of Sholem Aleichem. Shows will be presented in the Russell Hill Rogers Theater at Playhouse San Antonio at 8 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Monday, Dec. 22, and at 3 p.m. Sundays. Tickets range from $12 to $30 and can be purchased through a link at www.theplayhousesa.org. The Playhouse is at 800 W. Ashby Place.

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“IRVING BERLIN’S WHITE CHRISTMAS” This new stage adaptation of the famous film, with 17 memorable Irving Berlin tunes, is being presented by the Woodlawn Theatre. Shows are at 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and at 3 p.m. Sundays. Tickets cost $23 for adults, $20 for seniors and military personnel, and $15 for students (with ID) and children. They’re available through a link at www.woodlawntheatre. org or by calling 267-8388. The Woodlawn is at 1920 Fredericksburg Road.

THROUGH DEC 28

FICTION CONTEST The San Antonio Book Festival is looking for fiction works by young writers to showcase as part of next spring’s event. Original works by writers in three divisions – grades seven/eight, nine/10

JAN 12

HAPPENING continues on pg. 08

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HAPPENING continues from pg. 06 and 11/12 – should follow the theme of “A Chest in the Attic …” and be no more than 1,500 words. Of the works submitted by the Jan. 12 deadline, 30 finalists will be selected by Feb. 2 and winners will be announced Feb. 16. The Book Festival is April 11. Official rules are at http:// www.saplf.org/festival/fiction-contest/. THEATER COMPETITION Applications are being accepted in Las Casas Foundation’s annual performing-arts scholarship competition, which is open to all high school students – including home-schooled ones – in San Antonio and surrounding areas. Categories are vocal, monologue acting, dance and Jimmy Awards, which is for juniors and seniors who have played the lead role in their school’s musical production. A total of $100,000 in scholarship funds will go to the 2015 winners. Go to www. lascasasfoundation.org to find applications, rules, audition guidelines and scholarship criteria. Application deadline is Feb. 15, preliminary auditions will be in March and final auditions will be April 26.

THROUGH FEB 15

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RETIRED TEACHERS The North DEC San Antonio Retired Teachers 17 Association will open its monthly meeting with a “meet and greet” at 9:45 a.m.; the meeting begins at 10:15 a.m. at San Pedro Presbyterian Church, 14900 San Pedro Ave. The group – which has members who have taught in districts all over San Antonio – meets the third Wednesday of the month during the school year, and members are encouraged to bring a friend. SONS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION The San Antonio Chapter of the national organization will hold its monthly luncheon meeting at the Petroleum Club, 8620 N. New Braunfels Ave., at 11:30 a.m. Lunch costs $25. Reservations are required and should be made with Bob Clark, 4020871, or reservations@sarsat.org, by the Monday prior to the meeting. The chapter meets on the third Wednesday of the month except for July and August.

DEC 17

THE SOUNDS OF CHRISTMAS AT VILLA FINALE Traditional Christmas music and lighter holiday fare will be performed by the San Antonio Brass at Villa Finale Museum & Gardens starting at 6 p.m. There will be seasonal refreshments too. Tickets cost $25, $20 for members and $17.50 for lawn seating (bring a blanket) and can be purchased by calling 223-9800; gates open at 5:30. Villa Finale is at 401 King William St.

DEC 18

WWW.SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM

NELSON ROCKEFELLER’S PICASSOS The exhibition opening at the San Antonio Museum of Art features 15 of the 18 tapestries commissioned by Rockefeller for the family’s Hudson River Valley estate, Kykuit. The works are based on Pablo Picasso’s most important paintings, and the artist collaborated on the colors in many of them. There is a $10 surcharge on the museum’s $10 admission charge for patrons 18 and older. The exhibit runs through March 8. The museum is at 200 W. Jones Ave.

DEC 20

LEARN ABOUT RVs The South Texas RV Super Sale isn’t just a retail event, it’s an educational experience. Seminars at the event cover selection and maintenance of the rolling households, plus information on using a recreational vehicle kitchen and “5 Things You Need to Know Before You Buy an RV.” The event is at Freeman Coliseum, 3201 E. Houston St., and runs from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Jan. 2-3 and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Jan. 4. Admission costs range from $8 to $12; kids 13 and younger get in free.

JAN 2-4

SAN ANTONIO COCKTAIL CONFERENCE The fourth annual celebration of libations starts with a series of dinners with cocktails to complement the menu; sites include Mixtli on McCullough, Folc on East Olmos Drive and Two Bros. BBQ Market on West Avenue. The following week features parties, tastings, seminars and competitions, with much of the action taking place on or near Houston Street. Proceeds will benefit the San Antonio Children’s Shelter, ChildSafe, HeartGift San Antonio and Transplants for Children. Tickets are available though links on the schedule at www.sanantoniococktailconference.com.

JAN 5-10 15-18

“SALOME” Opera San Antonio will stage Richard Strauss’ dark, intense masterpiece – shocking when it had its debut in 1905 – in the H-E-B Performance Hall of the Tobin Center. Noted soprano Patricia Racette sings the title role. The performances are at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 8 and 2 p.m. Jan. 11. Tickets range in price from $29 to $196 and can be purchased through a link at https:// www.tobincenter.org/box-office/2015-01/ salome. They’re also available by phone from the Tobin box office, 223-8624. The Tobin Center for the Performing Arts is at 100 Auditorium Circle downtown.

JAN 8, 11

SUBMITTING EVENTS: Email all

the details along with your contact information two months in advance to tips@salocallowdown.com.

LOCAL NEWS ONLINE

FACEBOOK.COM/SALOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS

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ACADEMIC SKILLS/SAT & ACT Prep/Subject Tutoring

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

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1. SOLANA ZOE, 14359 Blanco Road in

the Cadillac Plaza, is a recently opened women’s boutique. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. For more, call 408-1831 or visit http://www. solanazoe.com/. (See story on page 26)

2. ROCK’S DISCOUNT VITAMINS-NMORE, 7115 Blanco Road, is a store

specializing in health supplements, discount vitamins and more. Hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday. For more, call 342-7625 or visit Facebook. com/rocksvitamins. (See story on page 25)

3. CAFE BAHAR, 10227 Ironside Drive,

features Indian cuisine and vegetarianfriendly dishes. Hours are 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. every day, and 5:30 to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, with hours extending to 10:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. For more, call 558-8289 or visit www. cafebaharausa.com. (See story on page 28)

4. ZOË’S KITCHEN, 427 N. Loop 1604 West in the Sonterra Village shopping center, is the third restaurant in the franchise to open in San Antonio. The company’s tag line says it all: “Mediterranean-inspired food delivered with Southern hospitality.” Menu items include Zoë’s Classic Greek Salad, homemade hummus, chicken salad, the orzo tabouli salad and freshly baked pita bread. Hours are 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. For more, call 404-9135 or visit zoeskitchen.com. (See story on page 27)

5. CARING HANDS MASSAGE THERAPY, 1011 N.W. Loop 410, Suite

103, offers Swedish and deep-tissue massage, hot-stone massage, reflexology and massages for stress-free relaxation. Hours are by appointment only Monday through Saturday. For more, call 4217441 or visit the shop on Facebook.

6. WELLFIT PRIVATE FITNESS, 1919

Lockhill Selma Road, Suite 103, is now open and provides private personal training, small group training, customized nutrition therapy and yoga classes in Castle Hills. Nationally accredited WellFIT trainers accommodate busy schedules and lifestyles, providing workouts Monday through Sunday. For a free consultation, call owner Patty Englund at 843-2995.

7. BIG BOB’S BURGERS, 4553 N. Loop 1604 West, Suite 1133, is set to open Jan. 2 at the Ridge Shopping Center, at the intersection with Lockhill Selma Road. This is the third Big Bob’s location in San Antonio, but like the others it will feature flame-grilled burgers, giant onion rings and hand-cut fries. In addition there is a full bar, a play area for the kids and a big screen-TV for all the games. Hours are 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. For more, call 408-2627. IN OTHER NEWS

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LOWDOWN continues from pg. 09 recently held a Parade of Nations to showcase the cultural diversity of nearly 145 refugee students from 31 nations, officials said. A video can be found at www.youtube.com/NorthsideISD. GERMAN-LANGUAGE STUDENTS AT CLARK HIGH SCHOOL commemorated the 25th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall by constructing a replica of the Cold War structure. The students in Marion Torres’ German class also sponsored a celebration of German art, culture and music, and worked for weeks on projects highlighting the history of the country. The wall, built of cardboard, divided the hallway into East Germany and West Germany.

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NORTHSIDE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT TRUSTEE Katie Reed has urged Governor-elect Greg Abbott to drop the school finance lawsuit appeal to the Texas Supreme Court, according to NISD’s “Board Talk.” A lower court ruled against the state for the way it funds Texas schools. Also, after watching the “Northside Video Moment,” Reed noted the U.S. State Department through Catholic Charities has placed many refugee students in NISD. She also participated in the Health Careers

High School’s Veterans Day celebration, as well as visited the Ecumenical Center and complimented students’ work with veterans. ELIZABETH MCALESTER, A SOPHOMORE AT CASTLE HILLS FIRST BAPTIST SCHOOL, has been selected to sing in the Alamo Vaudeville Dec. 13 at the Tobin Performing Arts Center, 100 Auditorium Circle. This is not her first performance at the Tobin Center, according to school officials, and she has also entertained in school productions and regularly sings “The Star-Spangled Banner” at football games. She has played the piano for 10 years. DISTRICT 9 COUNCILMAN JOE KRIER WANTS A STUDY TO DETERMINE THE EFFECTIVENESS of San Antonio’s beefedup distracted driving ordinance, which the City Council passed Nov. 6. The new law takes effect Jan. 1. It prohibits using a hand-held mobile device while operating a motor vehicle on any San Antonio street and fines can reach up to $200. Officials said 40 percent of vehicle mishaps involve using cellphones. Hands-free devices are still permissible in moving traffic. “I’ve requested a study to determine the effectiveness of the law,” Krier said. “At the end of 2015, the

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SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM LOWDOWN continues from pg. 10 city will review and report on the statistics to see whether or not this law reduces the number of crashes in San Antonio.” The San Antonio Police Department will conduct an awareness campaign called “Keep ‘Em on the Wheel,” and there will be a 30-day grace period to let the public adjust to the new rules, Krier said. JAMES DOUGHTY, A FORMER BROADCAST JOURNALIST, HAS BEEN NAMED COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER for District 9 City Councilman Joe Krier. “James Doughty came to us highly recommended and after several interviews we determined he was an outstanding match for our office,” Krier said. Doughty most recently worked in television news using his mother’s maiden name, Munoz. Born in Midland, he graduated from Texas Tech University in 1997 with a bachelor’s degree in broadcast journalism. He worked in television news for more than 16 years. Doughty and his wife, Angela, are members of Churchill Baptist Church. Their two children attend class in the North East Independent School District. THE SEVEN FLOWING FOUNTAINS AT LA FOGATA MEXICAN CUISINE are making

wishes come true for Roy Maas’ Youth Alternatives, with more than $2,500 collected in coins from the waters to help the nonprofit, which is committed to caring for children in crisis, officials said. Dwight Lieb, owner of La Fogata, matched the amount in the Fountains FOR Youth effort, resulting in a total donation of $5,000. The funds will help the alternative program to ensure that at-risk children have a brighter holiday, officials said. The restaurant is at 2427 Vance Jackson Road. THE CHURCHILL CHARGER MARCHING BAND of Churchill High School traveled to New York City during Thanksgiving to march in the annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. This was the Chargers’ debut performance in the event. The parade, which was first held 88 years ago, was seen by 3.5 million people in New York and an estimated television audience of 50 million viewers. The parade featured performers, stars of the screen, bands and huge inflatable balloons of cartoon characters and other pop-culture figures.

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LOWDOWN continues from pg. 11 District 8 Councilman Ron Nirenberg. Two students were selected from each class to be on the leadership panel, and presented their concerns about crime, litter and nature, then offered solutions, officials said. “I was totally impressed with this class,” Nirenberg said. He told the students about the workings of city government and outlined issues facing San Antonio. THE RECENT CLAY NIGHT AT CASTLE HILLS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL gave parents and students an opportunity to create a personal and unique clay ornament. The ornaments were fired in a kiln, giving the students a quality keepsake as well as a lesson in science. The students learned about the chemical changes that occur during the drying and hardening process, officials said. UNITED STATES REP. LAMAR SMITH, R-SAN ANTONIO, paid a recent visit to Churchill High School to talk to students about the workings of government, as well as answer questions from them. ELISE ROSEN OF CHURCHILL HGH SCHOOL has been selected for the 2015 U.S. Army All-American Marching Band. She will join an elite group of marching-band

members performing during halftime at the U.S. Army All-American Bowl at the Alamodome Jan. 3. The marching band recognizes the top 125 high school senior marching musicians and color guard members from across the country. The bowl will be televised live on NBC at noon. LINDA FLEETWOOD, DIRECTOR FOR VISUAL ART in the North East Independent School District, was recently named the Texas Art Education Association’s 2014 Texas Art Educator of the Year. The award honors those who have significantly contributed to the association and to art education on the local and national levels. “It hasn’t all totally soaked in yet, but it is definitely exciting,” said Fleetwood, who has spent 23 years as a visual arts educator. “To be recognized by your peers and friends is very rewarding.” TAEA’s mission is to promote quality visual arts education in the state by including it as an integral part of academic curriculum. Fleetwood was scheduled to accept the honor during the TAEA’s annual conference in November at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center. SEVERAL NORTH EAST INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS will benefit from a grant from

the Texas Department of Agriculture to update serving-line equipment at their cafeterias. Camelot, Clear Spring, Dellview, East Terrell Hills, Jackson-Keller, Montgomery, Olmos, Ridgeview, Walzem and West Avenue elementary schools will all receive cold plates designed to preserve servings of fruits and vegetables. “Several NEISD schools already have cold plates, and this grant will help expand this initiative,” said Sharon Glosson, the district’s executive director of school nutrition services. The National School Lunch Program Equipment Assistance Grants are designed to help schools create healthy campus environments. REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE AMERICAN LUNG ASSOCIATION presented seven North East Independent School District campuses with 2014 Asthma-Friendly Schools Initiative Champion Awards’ gold designations on Oct. 16 at the Omni Colonnade Hotel. Representatives from Castle Hills, Colonial Hills, Olmos and Thousand Oaks elementary schools, Garner and Wood middle schools, and Robert E. Lee High School received plaques in recognition of their efforts to create healthy school environments and meet ALA standards. Several students

spoke about their experiences with asthma and how their school nurses helped them live healthier lives. NORTH EAST INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT HIGH SCHOOLS UNITED recently to benefit thousands in need. Churchill, Johnson, Lee, Reagan and Roosevelt high schools took part in the Sept. 25-28 TexasMobilePack citywide service project by packing meals feeding thousands of starving children worldwide. More than 400 volunteers from the schools attended the event at University United Methodist Church, one of three mealpacking sites in the San Antonio area. Many different organizations from each campus participated, including Johnson and Lee – which celebrated homecomings the same week – and Roosevelt, located 30 minutes away from the pack site on De Zavala Road. “The support from Reagan, Johnson, Churchill, Lee and Roosevelt was truly overwhelming,” said Thomas Holmes, a Johnson student who served on the project. “It was a privilege to meet with principals and sponsors from the schools and get to know them on a personal level. They are an amazing group of people.”

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Special software helped prioritize street choices by LUCILLE SIMS THOMAS

ASTLE HILLS — City officials have prioritized 12 streets for “easy” repairs starting early next year at a cost of nearly $1 million as part of an overall plan to keep roadways from deteriorating.

The streets slated for the work include Adobe Drive, Halbart Drive, Krameria Drive, Twinleaf Lane, East Castle Lane, Mimosa Drive, West Castle Lane, Herweck Drive, Zornia Drive, Danube Drive, Tamworth Drive and Gladiola Street. “There’s quite a few streets that are in bad condition, but these were ones that would take minimal work like mill and overlay and things like that, where we can get a number of streets done for a million dollars,” Mayor Tim Howell said. The City Council voted unanimously to approve the repairs. The dozen streets were selected using special software that helped council members decide which ones would be appropriate to repair sooner than later. The work, with an estimated cost of $970,765, is not a temporary fix, Howell said. The repairs will include an inch to 2 inches of asphalt topping expected to last 15 to 20 years. Though work will start early next year, Howell didn’t have an estimated timetable on how long it would take to finish the project. The city has been trying to find alternative ways to repair its streets after multimillion-dollar bond issues were defeated by voters in 2010 and again in

2013. City leaders had considered giving VIA Metropolitan Transit the boot so that tax dollars used to subsidize the bus service could instead go to road repairs. VIA, however, has pledged $300,000 to aid Castle Hills, and city officials have expressed support for the idea. Meanwhile, the city’s finances are capable of handling the current streets selected for revamping, officials said. “These are streets without drainage problem that we can just mill down and put a topping on it. Easy stuff that doesn’t involve any heavy drainage projects or anything like that,” Howell said. The plan was put together by Mayor Pro Tem John Squire and Rick Harada, head of the Public Works Department. There was some controversy in deciding which 12 streets to select, with Councilwoman Lesley Wenger noting that many of the roadways residents complained about the most were left off the list. Wenger and Councilman Douglas Gregory wanted the city’s newly hired engineers to take a look at the street-improvement plan. Howell said the council used information developed by the city’s former engineer that was recommended a number of years ago. “We felt at this time like we had enough information to go ahead and move forward with this batch of streets, without having the newly hired engineers go back and do a substantial amount of work,” the mayor said. Former Councilman Steve McGuire expressed delight at the city’s efforts. “The million dollars they have — it makes sense to take streets that are on the brink of failure and repair those so that they don’t need much more expensive repairs later on. I support the concept that they are doing,” McGuire said. McGuire said to completely repair all of the town’s streets — an idea explored during his time on the council — would cost at least $25 million to $30 million and require a major bond issue.

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“We’re well below the number of burglaries compared to last year,” said Police Chief David Creed. “’Suspicious persons’ calls seem to be up.” Tips from residents reporting crimes to the Shavano Park Police Department for the first eight months of 2013 numbered 1,237, compared to 1,396 for the same period in 2014, Creed said. According to the chief, more calls about suspicious activity — from Neighborhood Watch volunteers and other residents acting as the eyes and ears

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of the Police Department — go handin-hand with the lowered crime rate. The chief also said police bicycle patrols are having an impact. “We have a trend so far that there is a reduction in our burglaries in homes,” said City Manager Bill Hill. “It’s difficult to prevent all crime, but hopefully we can continue this trend.” Hill also said there are several reasons for the decrease in crimes, but nearly all of them involve a partnership between law enforcement and neighbors. “I will say that we have a big point of emphasis in encouraging our citizens to be vigilant,” Hill said. “Everything from Neighborhood Watch programs to actually calling the police any time they see anything suspicious. We have, per capita, a significant police presence, and that presence of … law enforcement helps deter crime. We put an emphasis on security and safety and we balance that.” Etta Fanning, who is the Neighborhood Watch coordinator for the city, said an extensive communication network helps keep neighbors on the lookout. “Neighborhood Watch is a community grassroots group of volunteers,” Fanning said. “We have block captains who are

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SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM BURGLARIES continues from pg. 14 responsible from anywhere from 10 to 30 homes. They have contact information and alert law enforcement and each other if there is anything going on that is suspicious in the neighborhood.” If a break-in does occur, a resident first makes a report to police, and then relays the alert to the block captain. The block captain then sends information to the rest of the neighborhood as well as to Fanning, who puts all of Shavano Park on notice. “It’s just a system of neighbors being more alert,” Fanning said. “We teach that. Neighborhood Watch is making a difference. We’re building the community and helping people to know each other better and reaching out to keep each other informed.” Creed said neighbors must continue to partner with the police. “When in doubt, if you see something suspicious that just doesn‘t look right, dial 911. Don’t hesitate. Pick up the phone and get us started that way,” Creed said. Along with greater attentiveness from neighbors, a very visual and

mobile police bike presence played a role in reducing crime, Creed said. “We implemented a police bicycle patrol,” said the chief. “We don’t run it every day. We run it on select days and we don’t tell anyone what days we’re running it. It gives us a way of moving around residential and business areas in such a fashion that we can move through one area to another, sometimes a lot more quicker.” The bicycle patrol allows officers to maneuver in areas where a patrol car isn’t as effective, such as trails, bike paths and parking lots. In addition to the increased mobility for officers, the bicycle patrols provide a greater visual police presence, making officers more approachable for residents. The bicycle patrols are not as obvious nor as loud as a patrol car, the chief added. “They move so quietly because there is no engine noise,” Creed said. “We’re right on top of a situation or a person before they realize we’re even nearby. Bicycle patrols have not made any arrests yet, but it’s created a lot of awareness and it gives us a greater chance to make contact with residents out here.”

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Former Mayor Phil Hardberger is raising funds for a proposed land bridge that will link the north and south portions of Hardberger Park near Wurzbach Parkway and Blanco Road. Photo by Rudy B. Ornelas

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SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM LAND BRIDGE continues from pg. 16 private individual, corporate, city of San Antonio, state and federal funds,” he said. The bridge will reflect the park’s natural environs, he added. “We’re thinking the bridge will be 100 to 200 feet wide and planted with trees and grass to make it look like an extension of the park itself. It will be a one-of-a-kind structure,” Hardberger said. For now, only traditional ground-level crosswalks link the two portions of the park. The 311-acre park was carved out of the old Max and Minnie Voelcker property – a working dairy farm that sat between Northwest Military Highway on the west, Blanco Road on the east, Braesview Road on the south, and George Road on the north for much of the 20th century. Max Voelcker died in 1980, followed by his wife in 2000, and The Max and Minnie Tomerlin Voelcker Fund was established in their memory. In 2007, voters authorized the city to purchase acreage from the Voelcker Fund and to dedicate it for parkland. The effort was spearheaded by Hardberger, who was still in office. To honor his work, the park was named for him. Hardberger and the Hardberger Park Conservancy planned from

An artist's rendering of a proposed land bridge (left) crossing Wurzbach Parkway to link two portions of Hardberger Park show it will be covered in grass and trees. Another illustration (above) indicates how a pedestrian walkway might look. Courtesy illustrations

the outset to build a land bridge to benefit wildlife and humans and to link the two sides of the park. But the funds for the structure were not included in the original allocation for the park. Hardberger believes $10 million or more will come from private donations and perhaps $6 million or so from a planned 2017 bond issue, which is on the

drawing board. The remainder could come from state and federal dollars, he said. District 8 and 9 members Ron Nirenberg and Joe Krier, respectively, are both outspoken supporters of the bridge. Their districts share Hardberger Park. “I was in attendance when Mayor Hardberger participated in the opening of the Tobin Center (for the Performing Arts),” Nirenberg said. “I remember him saying,

‘When this first began, the campaign to raise money for the Tobin Center, people said it couldn’t be done.’ Phil’s response was, ‘We can do it, we should do it and we did do it!’” “It’s that same sense of vision now with the land bridge,” the District 8 councilman added. Nirenberg also uses the park himself. “I frequent Hardberger Park with my family all the time,” he said. “It’s one of the reasons we bought a home near there.” He noted Hardberger never tires of seeking support for the bridge. “During Mayor Hardberger’s 80th birthday celebration in the park, he gave a briefing on his vision for the land bridge,” Nirenberg said. “It was very compelling.” Krier said he’d love to help Hardberger raise the money for the bridge. “If we can get the land bridge built, it will be a magnet for visitors and international recognition for decades to come,” the District 9 councilman said. “I have volunteered to work with Mayor Hardberger to make calls and visits to corporations and foundations to help raise the money we need.” Krier believes naming rights could be part of the deal for a significant corporate donation, which is a suggestion

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LAND BRIDGE continues from pg. 17 Hardberger and Nirenberg support. As for the hefty amount needed to build the bridge, Krier said, “Twenty years from now no one will ask the cost. They will only comment on what a treasure the land bridge is for the city.” To underscore that point, Krier noted, “No one asks how much Brackenridge Park cost the city to build. They just marvel at what a magnificent treasure it is. The same would be true about the land bridge.” “The land bridge is a great concept,” said Marco Barros, who has lived near Hardberger Park for years. “It is a great location for a park in the city. The bridge would unite the park completely and it would call attention to the public land there as people drive along the Wurzbach Parkway. It would attract visitors from around the world.” Animal activist Lynn Cuny, founder and the driving force behind Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation in Kendalia, believes an eco-friendly land bridge is “essential and good for wildlife as long as it does not create any restrictions on animals.” “There’s a difference between humanuser friendly and wildlife friendly,” Cuny said. “For example, lights would be a deterrent to animals. And, keep in

I’D LIKE TO SEE AN EDUCATIONAL OUTREACH EFFORT COUPLED WITH THE BRIDGE TO LET FOLKS KNOW FOX AND COYOTES AND OTHER ANIMALS HAVE LIVED THERE LONG BEFORE PEOPLE.

Pedestrians walking from one part of Hardberger Park to the other have to make their way under busy Wurzbach Parkway, but a proposed land bridge could change all that if donors come up with the estimated $20 million to $25 million the project will cost. Photo by Rudy B. Ornelas

mind the animals were there first.” The bridge could help expand the public’s knowledge of wildlife in the area. “I’d like to see an educational outreach effort coupled with the bridge to let folks know fox and coyotes and other animals have lived there long before people and that’s why we need to take into account the highly specialized needs of wildlife in designing and

building the land bridge,” she said. Hardberger said Cuny has some good ideas. “We are committed to make the park as animal-friendly as we can,” he said, adding there will be no lights on the bridge. Building community support for the bridge is crucial, other supporters said. “We need a city leader to step forward to say this bridge is good for the community…

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B.E.S.T, which stands for Boosting Engineering Science and Technology, is also known on campus as Big Red Inc. The 16-member team placed second overall at the local competition held at St. Mary’s University Oct. 25, with their robot “Windy.” They moved on to state Nov. 1415 in Garland, and the team — as always — learned some valuable cybernetic lessons, the sponsor said.

ROBOTICS continues on pg. 20

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DEC. 15 - JAN. 10, 2015 equates to “most elegant” design and, though they did not make it to the semifinals, he is proud of his team. “My main thing is that every time we come back from a competition, we still have a team and they’re all still friends. Then, as a coach, I’ve done what I’m supposed to do,” Pundt said. Lee’s robotics team has five girls and 11 boys. Each year the students try to recruit from the three other campuses based at the high school, including the STEM Academy, the International School of the Americas and the North East School of the Arts. The majority of the team is made up of STEM students, mostly because they are taking or have taken Pundt’s engineering course. The team is devising new recruitment strategies to broaden the membership. “We need to reach out there a little better... there’s no substitute for experience and word of mouth,” Pundt said. The robotics team has three units — hardware, drivers and marketing. The hardware team creates the robot for the competition using a design program called Solid Works, creates a strategy and figures out the best equipment for building the robot. Drivers control the robot during competition and attempt to complete the

ROBOTICS continues from pg. 19 “Every year these guys, no matter how tired they get, and how hard they (have) to work to keep their grades up, they always manage to come through and place,” said Ronnie Pundt, the robotics team coach and STEM — or science, technology, engineering and math — Academy high school engineering teacher. It takes six weeks to create, build and ensure the team’s robot can perform the objectives set forth by the competition guidelines. This year’s challenge was called “Bladerunner,” with a goal to transport pre-made parts of a wind turbine through obstacles and then construct them. Matthew Orta, a senior and president of the team, said judges change the challenge each year. This one took into account the environment and is based on the wind turbines in West Texas. The team also had to fit the robot into a 24-by-24-by-24 inch cube. The robot, remotely driven by the team, had three minutes to complete tasks, avoid obstacles and score other game points. Big Red won third place with the Founder’s Award for Creative Design. The team had two-and-a-half weeks to tweak and practice before state. Pundt said the Founder’s Award

ROBOTICS continues on pg. 20

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SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM ROBOTICS continues from pg. 20 challenge using problem-solving skills. The marketing team presents the robot to a panel of engineers and professors of engineering. Harrison Frende, a junior and the team’s co-captain, was disappointed the team did not advance at state, but noted they have a relatively new group. Only a handful of members returned from the previous year. “Just going to state is an accomplishment in itself, but it would have been nicer to at least get into the semifinals,” Harrison said. The upside? The team gets to take a break, which means time to work on new approaches, Pundt said. Harrison also hopes to start some off-season projects to keep team members interested and their minds fresh while they learn about multiple aspects of robotics. Members meet after school every day, for two to three hours. Matthew said being on the team takes a commitment. “It doesn’t matter if you’re not that good of a (robot) driver or you’re not that artistic, or maybe you don’t understand all the laws of physics. If you have the dedication and you’re willing to put in the time to learn more about it or just come in and practice, then you can be on the team,” Matthew said. Matthew won a $50,000 scholarship to St. Mary’s after the team placed at

the local competition. According to Pundt, members have received $254,000 in scholarships over the years. Team members learn skills that include presentation, social, interview, technical and engineering. Building the actual robot and driving it is only 15 percent of the overall score, which is why the marketing presentation is important — including building a booth filled with information. Matthew said the team mantra is, “We want to beat you out on the field, not in the pit (where the robot is assembled).” It’s an attitude that helped them win the sportsmanship award the previous year. “We don’t want it (a win) because your robot broke. We want it because our design is good enough to beat you on equal terms,” Pundt said. “And besides, it’s just good sportsmanship.” The team even has a loan list that lets them keep track of tools and parts they let other teams borrow. The robotics team started in 1994, and Pundt is its second coach. He mentored one year and has been coaching for the last seven. “Once you do it, you get addicted to it, you’re hooked. It’s like a shiny lure,” Pundt said. “I have the easy job. I don’t have to design the robot.” For more on the team, visit https:// www.facebook.com/leehsbestrobotics.

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Artistic virtuoso originally wanted to be a geologist by EILEEN PACE

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ASTLE HILLS — Tom Masinter is one of those individuals who seems to know how to create more time in an already packed schedule. It’s as if he gets more than 24 hours in each day.

Plus, he’s nothing if not versatile. Masinter is a sought-after musicologist, a pianist, a composer and a music teacher whose works are published by Warner Bros, RBC Music and Noteworthy Publications. He tunes and restores pianos and teaches piano lessons to 40 students a week. He also happens to love horticulture. “These are crinums. They’re in the lily family and these are from Thailand,” he said, explaining why he is cultivating tiny crinum sprigs in half a dozen pots around his kitchen. Outside, Masinter’s eyes light up

as he describes a dozen exotic fruit trees in his yard — varieties of blood orange, kumquats, persimmons, satsuma oranges and grapefruit. “This is a white flowering peach. It’s the best white flower you can imagine. It looks like gigantic white popcorn when it blooms,” he said. From exotic flowers to the eucalyptus he uses in bouquets for his wife on Valentine’s Day, Masinter grows hundreds of plants outside. But magic happens inside the house, too, where he teaches piano lessons and restores vintage pianos. He may have 20 or more keyboards in his home at a time. At the moment, there are six vintage grand pianos in the house, ready to play. “I have an 1894 Steinway sitting here. I have another big Mason & Hamlin. In the front room I have a 1917 Chickering — it’s the one I grew up on and wrote my first song on,” he said. Seven more grands plus several uprights and two square pianos wait in the garage for their turn at restoration. “There are so many pianos that are just forgotten,” he said. “It’s so expensive to restore pianos that nobody will restore them anymore, except me

MUSICAL continues on pg. 23

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Star Mall and when it was going to close, I had a daughter on the way and had to support my family. So I began teaching piano. Turns out I liked it and I was good at it and I’ve been doing it ever since,” he said. That decision was 34 years ago, and Masinter dived into music with his father’s versatility. He has produced half a dozen musicals, written music for plays and classic theater, art songs and oral responses. He arranges orchestral music for recording companies and musical revues for art exhibits. His numerous awards for composing, arranging and directing include an ATAC Globe Award in 2002 for his musical, “Gone To Texas” and an award for meritorious service from the Air Force chief of chaplains for his music direction at Brooks Air Force Base. He estimated he’s taught more than 1,000 students over the years. His oldest student to date was 74 years old. His youngest is 4. “Children all show you what they’re going to be when they grow up. And I’m their teacher. What I say to them and show them is really important to their development. I really care about that, about giving them what they need,” the musician said.

MUSICAL continues from pg. 22 or a museum that’s well-funded. If I want to hear how a piano sounds and plays, I have to fix it up myself.” Masinter teaches on a 1926 Knabe Grand, made in Baltimore. The sound of vintage pianos is very different from those crafted today, he said. His current restoration project is an 1884 British Chappell. “In those days you had to rely on artistry, your ear and on your feelings, your senses, to create the sound. Now, everything is done on computers and there’s a lot of neutralness in tone out there,” he said. Though he always loved music, Masinter started on a different path. “I knew from the age of 10 that I wanted to be a geologist,” he said. Wait, what? “In my last year of school at Trinity University, I realized that most geologists sit inside under fluorescent lights and look at charts and that wasn’t exciting to me,” he said. “My father used to tell us it was hard to make a living being a musician, and he did everything from teaching to composing and playing in the symphony. He played the bass in seven movies with actors like Clark Gable. “I was managing the plant store at North

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Masinter believes everybody deserves to learn to play music. He said he tailors lessons to a person’s skill level. “It’s a value. If I have students that I can see are going to be classical superstars, then I will take them that way. But that’s not the 2X THE TREATMENT TIME way most students are going,” he said. DOUBLE THE TREATMENT AREA “A lot of piano lessons (are) not “I’ve been trying to lose a few pounds but about getting them to Carnegie Hall,” I haven’t seen it yet. So I tried V-FREEZE!” he added. “There aren’t a lot of jobs out there for classical pianists and they don’t “They told me I could lose up to 6” on pay well. A lot of times I think it’s better my waist and 4” on my thighs in as little to teach them so they derive enjoyment as 10 weeks!” from playing the music. I think these kids would like to sit down and play the hit song from ‘Frozen,’ so I work with skills they would need for enjoyment.” Masinter is on just about every San Antonio singer’s accompanist list. He played for Mary Denman — NON-SURGICAL the Alamo City broadcasting legend BODY CONTOURING — when she sang with the Salt Shakers CELLULITE REDUCTION at what was then called San Antonio SKIN TIGHTENING Little Theater. It became San Pedro for the FACE, NECK and BODY Playhouse and now is The Playhouse. Book Your Venus Freeze “From Mary I learned to never make Pics 1896,1908,1910,1903 and 1916 Appointment Today! a mistake,” he said. “When I play for singers, the first rule is ‘don’t mess up your singers.’ It’s the singer’s show. It’s not about you playing piano. It’s not about

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being fancy or being wildly crazy … I’ve never had a singer complain. I learn to read them. I breathe when they breathe. I’ve always said, ‘Thank goodness, I slowed down when they slowed down.’” Masinter remains eclectic. His home is decorated with piano-bench coffee tables and pull-stops from vintage reed organs. His plantscape contains more exotic plants than some of the best nurseries, nurturing narcissus, Byzantine glads, crocosmias and roses. And he’s most proud of a Chir pine that came from the Himalayas. Masinter said his most satisfying day is one in which he digs in his garden and does some composing in the morning, tunes and restores pianos in the afternoon, and instructs students after school. He plays at the McNay Art Museum, the Majestic, Empire, Woodlawn and other theaters, and performs around the city for special events such as the recent 60th anniversary celebration for the McNay at the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts. Masinter still follows his passion for geology on frequent excursions to Big Bend and other parts of the country with his wife, Maggie Priesmeyer. Now, though, Masinter said, “I tell people I have a degree in geology so I can do rock music.”

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fter eight successful years serving customers in Corpus Christi, Rock’s Discount VitaminsN-More opened a new location at 7115 Blanco Road in November.

Rock’s, which bills itself as “The King of Supplements,” offers highquality supplements and vitamins at discounted prices, the managers said. “We have been blessed over the years to develop a huge following in South Texas and in San Antonio,” said co-owner Manuel Hernandez. “We felt it was time to expand and officially open up here, and we were fortunate to find a great central location that we feel will be great for all of our new and our returning customers.” Their new store, located in the

Rock's Discount Vitamins-N-More employees pride themselves on working with customers to make sure patrons get the right products to reach their fitness goals, whether it's vitamins or supplements. Photos by Collette Orquiz

WE REALLY TRY TO GET TO KNOW OUR CUSTOMERS AND SPEND TIME WITH THEM MANUEL HERNANDEZ, CO-OWNER

line of vitamin and nutrient snacks. “We also are selling a line of clothing called RED Fitness Apparel,” Hernandez said. “RED stands for ‘Rebuild,’ ‘Evolve’ and ‘Destroy.’ The company is out of San Antonio. We started carrying them in Corpus Christi and we thought it would be a natural fit for our San Antonio store. They’re great-looking, high-quality shirts, and we sell them for great prices.” Rock’s employees pride themselves on working with their customers to ensure that patrons are taking what is right for them and that the products match their fitness goals. Employees take into account the customers’ health history and dietary needs. “We really try to get to know our customers and spend time with them,” Hernandez said. “We never let anyone come into our store and let them grab something off of our shelves without telling them whether or not they need it. That’s just not how we do things.” Hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday.

ROCK'S DISCOUNT VITAMINS-N-MORE 7115 Blanco Road For more, call 342-7625, or visit facebook.com/rocksvitamins

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New boutique grew out of online venture by COLETTE ORQUIZ

ianca De La Cruz is no stranger to the retail business, and when she had the opportunity to transform her online store into a boutique customers could visit, she took the chance for a fresh start. Solana Zoe celebrated its grand opening Oct. 4 at 14359 Blanco Road in the Cadillac Plaza. De La Cruz said her newest venture focuses on women’s apparel and accessories that shoppers are not going to find anywhere else. “We focus on having very distinct looks and exclusive pieces,” De La Cruz said. “I don’t typically restock.” The boutique is named after De La Cruz’s daughter, Zoe Solana, who

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is also the inspiration in her life. The boutique offers faux-fur vests and fringe shorts to dresses and more, with plenty of trendy accessories. “It’s different and I love it. It’s stylish and you’re not going to find these pieces” anywhere else, De La Cruz said. Her energies are directed at collecting unique and versatile pieces that match other clothing items, both in the shop and in customers’ closets. De La Cruz said she tries to keep abreast of trends, while changing fashions to keep pace with the seasons, colors and styles. She also tries to sell at affordable prices and ensure her store is different from other boutiques. “Some boutiques try to go with the bohemian look. I feel like my look is a little bit more edgy, it’s very young and fun, but the quality is really good,” De La Cruz said. Something is always going on at the shop, according to the owner, whether it is a sale or a fundraiser. De La Cruz just hosted a charity event with Sunset Moonlight and Bill Miller Bar-B-Q, to raise funds so 10 families could enjoy Thanksgiving dinner. She also hosts pop-up shops for other boutiques or small businesses. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and closed Sunday and Monday.

Solana Zoe owner Bianca De La Cruz (pictured left) recently opened a women's boutique in the Cadillac Plaza specializing in unique and edgy apparel and accessories (photos above). Photos by Collette Orquiz

SOLANA ZOE 14359 Blanco Road in the Cadillac Plaza For more, call 408-1831, or visit facebook.com/solanazoe

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Zoë’s Kitchen features several Mediterranean dishes such as the grilled shrimp kabob with orzo tabouli salad (left). It can be paired with an appetizer of toasted pita bread and hummus (far left). Photos by Collette Orquiz

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Zoë’s Kitchen opens third San Antonio eatery Some things have not changed, though. From Zoë’s Classic Greek Salad to the homemade hummus, the orzo tabouli salad and the freshly baked pita bread, everything on the menu is still made fresh. The company’s tagline says it all: “Mediterranean-inspired food delivered with Southern hospitality.”

by OLIVIER J. BOURGOIN

n the heels of opening two restaurants in San Antonio, Zoë’s Kitchen recently debuted a third at 427 N. Loop 1604 West, Suite 210, in the Sonterra Village shopping center. The first Zoë’s was unveiled in July 2012 in Lincoln Heights, in a spot previously occupied by Italian restaurant Grissini’s. The second premiered in March 2013 at The Strand shopping center off Huebner Road at Interstate 10 West. With 132 restaurants in 15 states and counting, Zoë’s Kitchen has experienced phenomenal growth since company founders Zoë and Marcus Cassimus opened the first outlet in Birmingham, Alabama, in 1995, according to a history of the company.

Zoë means “life” in Greek. According to officials, the company’s philosophy about food reflects healthy, Mediterranean-inspired, original recipes from Zoë Cassimus’ Greek heritage. Nothing is fried and the eatery offers gluten-free and vegetarian options. As explained on the company’s website, the definition of living Mediterranean “means getting more out of every meal and every day.” The new restaurant accommodates up to 99 patrons, plus another 32 on the patio. Diners can also call in an order and pick it up when ready. A mobile app is also available for the same purpose.

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ZOË’S KITCHEN 427 N. Loop 1604 West, Suite 210 For more, call 404-9135, or visit zoeskitchen.com

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Cafe Bahar brings taste of India to Ironside Drive by COLETTE ORQUIZ

he owners of Cafe Bahar are taking over Texas one Indian cuisine buffet at a time. Cafe Bahar has opened a second locale where Sarovar Indian Cuisine used to operate, in the Ironside Mall at 10227 Ironside Drive.

Cafe Bahar features authentic cuisine from the northern and southern regions of India, offering 20 to 25 buffet items (above) and a party room that can be reserved for gatherings (right). Photos by Collette Orquiz

The first restaurant is in Plano. The eatery on Ironside Drive celebrated its grand opening on Sept. 13. Cafe Bahar features authentic Indian food from both the northern and southern regions of the country, said Pandu Kadira, one of the partners. The buffet is affordable and filled with both vegetarian and nonvegetarian items, he added.

“We have 20 to 25 different items,” Kadira said. “We provide great customer service and quality food.” Dishes include jerra rice, tandoori chicken, chicken tikka masala and more. In addition to the buffet, diners can order menu items a la carte. Weekend buffets offer more choices, including hot teas and juice. Cafe Bahar also caters, and has a large party hall that guests can reserve.

WE PROVIDE GREAT CUSTOMER SERVICE AND QUALITY FOOD.

Kadira said people should come for the Hyderabadi Dum Biryani, which is a mixed-rice dish prepared with spices, meat and vegetables, or with vegetables and no meat. The recipe brings together the cuisine of multiple locales in India, including Hyderabad with a mughlai influence. The restaurant is looking to branch out to Austin and Dallas, Kadira said. Hours are 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. every day, and 5:30 to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, with hours extending to 10:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.

PANDU KADIRA, PARTNER

CAFE BAHAR 10227 Ironside Drive For more, call 558-8289, or visit cafebaharusa.com

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AVERAGE DAYS ON MARKET

CLOSED SALES

UNDER CONTRACT

MONTHS SUPPLY OF INVENTORY

78213

78230

78231

78248

78249

OCT-13

$113,250

$190,000

$215,500

$279,975

$169,000

OCT-14

125,000

183,200

264,900

315,500

174,750

OCT-13

OCT-14

OCT-13

126

OCT-14

OCT-13

OCT-14

OCT-13

OCT-14

OCT-13

3.1

3.7

6.8

4.6

2.9

OCT-14

3.8

4.2

3.4

2.4

SOURCE: San Antonio Board of Realtors: Texas Market Trends report The properties are new listings put on the market from early October 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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