LOCAL: Castle Hills, Shavano Park, North Central, 78213, 78230, 78248, 78249 January 2016

SAFE EXCHANGE ZONES

PG.18 Police substations

become protected areas for e-commerce trades

EAT LOCAL

EMBERS WOOD FIRE GRILL & BAR

COMMUNITY NEWS

PG.26

Promising 'one-of-a-kind' eats

Transportation planners facing difficult decisions MPO considering HOV lanes in non-tolled revisions for I-10

VOL. 4, ISSUE 7 JAN. 11, 2016 - FEB. 8, 2016

CASTLE HILLSS

SHAVANO PARK

NORTH SIDE

PG.15

78213 78230 78231 78248 78249

INSIDE YOUR COMMUNITY

PG.13 Vance

Jackson Neighborhood Inc. has big plans for 2016

Group represents strong model for civic engagement, according to councilman

BUY LOCAL

NEISD ponders other changes at Lee, but name stays PG.11 WALL PG. 03 LOCAL COMMENTARY OF HEROES PG. 05 LOCAL EDITORIAL Naming high school after Confederate general honors slavery, critics argued

The time for tolerance among different faiths and communities is now

MITCHELL REALTY PG.24 Ribbon-cutting held in Castle Hills for new real-estate office

PG.21 First NEISD honoree is a military vet who helped take out Osama bin Laden

Using police substations for face-toface online trades is a good idea

PG. 10 LOCAL LOWDOWN Check out a quick summary of neighborhood news

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President Harold J. Lees Publisher Gregg Rosenfield Assoc. Publisher Rick Upton EDITORIAL Executive Editor Thomas Edwards News Staff Collette Orquiz, Bain Serna and Will Wright Contributing Writers Olivier J. Bourgoin, Jacque Crouse, Joyce Hotchkiss, Edmond Ortiz and Susan Yerkes ART Creative Director Florence D. Edwards Contributing Photographer Rudy B. Ornelas

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ADVERTISING Advertising Director Jaselle Luna Zone Manager Marc Olson Account Manager Lt. Col. James Fowler (Army, retired) Controller Keith Sanders READER SERVICE Mailing Address 4204 Gardendale St., Ste. 201 SA, TX 78229 Phone Fax (210) 338.8842 (210) 616.9677 Advertising Inquiries molson@localcommunitynews.com Story Ideas tips@localcommunitynews.com Website www.salocallowdown.com LOCAL Community News publications Zone 1: 78204, 78205, 78209, 78210, 78212, 78215 Zone 3: 78216, 78232, 78247 Zone 4/5: 78109, 78148, 78233, 78239 78108, 78132, 78154, 78266 Zone 6: 78258, 78259, 78260, 78261 Zone 7: 78015, 78023, 78255, 78256, 78257 For advertising, customer service or editorial, please call us at 210-338-8842 or write to us at: Local Community News 4204 Gardendale St., Ste. 201, San Antonio, TX 78229 Reproduction in whole or in part without our permission is prohibited, 2016 Helen Publishing LLC and Local Community News, LLC all rights reserved.

Monthly schedule has ups, downs

T

here is no shortage of challenges producing a newspaper that only comes out once a month.

Foremost is the effort to offer stories that remain fresh and relevant to our readers. Because many of the subjects we cover have already appeared in daily media, it is our task to bring readers deeper coverage by going behind the scenes and digging down to the real stories and the real issues.

That means our news staff often has to gaze into an imaginary crystal ball and extrapolate how some of these issues will develop over the next three or four weeks. This isn’t easy when even the people involved in the stories have no idea how things will turn out or what direction events will take.

Luckily, the six monthly papers published by LOCAL Community News are never short of stories to consider.

Add to the mixture a comprehensive monthly calendar, a solid roundup of news briefs and articles on the newest restaurants, bars, shops and services, and our readers are presented each month with an in-depth, award-winning community newspaper filled with the kind of information they can’t find anywhere else.

So far, 2016 promises to offer plenty of news nuggets for our reporters to mine — annexation, the debate over highway funding, neighborhood growth, education issues across the area’s various school districts, crime and so much more.

No matter what, our goal is always to deliver the most local coverage possible. That’s why so many of our stories deal specifically with individuals and neighborhoods. As the name of the newspaper implies, we like to keep things local.

THOMAS EDWARDS EXECUTIVE EDITOR ON THE COVER: Lee High School appears all quiet for the recent holidays, but during the past few weeks a controversy brewed there as activists urged the North East Independent School District board to either keep the Robert E. Lee name or drop it. See story on page 11.

Photo by Rudy B. Ornelas

3

SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM

LOCAL COMMENTARY

Peace and mutual respect for Muslims

by SUSAN YERKES

T

his holiday season, I gave a lot of thought to peace.

As a Christian, I celebrated Christmas — a joyful recognition of the birth of a man known as the Prince of Peace.

I was fortunate enough also to be invited to observe the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah with dear friends.

The last couple of years, I have also had the happy opportunity to share Muslim Ramadan celebrations and prayers with friends.

While the folks I refer to might customarily worship in different ways and on different days than I do, they

respect my beliefs, and they share my view the United States is the greatest place in the world to live.

Like me, they treasure the extraordinary freedoms we have in this country – including freedom of speech and freedom of religion.

As do most of the people I know.

So, I find it disturbing when any group is repeatedly singled out in hateful speech, and more disturbingly, hateful actions. People of every nation, including ours, have persecuted others on the basis of religion throughout history.

Many pilgrims came to America to freely practice a faith, and the Founding Fathers passed on such ideals to us.

True, at different times Catholics, Jews and others have borne harsh burdens of discrimination, but religious freedom still remains part of the American fabric.

In the wake of terrorism in Paris and California, there has been a big spike nationally in the intimidation, threats and violence targeting American Muslims and their institutions. In San Antonio, an armed man appeared at a mosque in November shouting obscenities after the attacks in France.

Yet all of the Muslims I know, both individually and in organizations, have clearly condemned terroristic

acts committed in the name of Islam, which they choose to practice peacefully – just as most Christians have condemned acts of violence by gunmen like the accused Planned Parenthood shooter, the Oklahoma City bomber and others whose inspiration came from twisted, angry minds.

It’s a shame when politicians play on fear by targeting an entire religion, rather than focusing on specific extremist groups we have reason to dread. Those groups do not represent the vast majority of American Muslims.

Several thousand San Antonians are Muslim. They are our neighbors, operating small businesses, teaching in universities, raising funds for common causes such as Habitat for Humanity and the San Antonio Food Bank. Their mosques and community organizations welcome friends of different faiths. At the Raindrop Turkish House, Turkish Muslims share their culture through cooking, art and language classes. Their Muslim members practice the tenets of peace, charity and harmony.

San Antonio’s chapter of the Dialogue Institute of the Southwest hosts regular lectures and events celebrating diverse religions and promoting understanding and peace. This fall they sponsored interfaith dialogues with Congregation

Agudas Achim and The Woodlands First Baptist Church. This month the Dialogue Institute and the Community Relations Council of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio are partnering to bring a special exhibit to town from the Jewish Museum of Turkey. On Feb. 1, the institute will partner with the University of the Incarnate Word to bring a prominent scholar to speak on the place of Jesus in Islam.

Many members of San Antonio’s peaceful Muslim community are reaching out to encourage understanding and respect. It’s up to us to accept their offered friendship. I’ve found it enriches my life and expands my horizons.

I’m all for protecting our borders, thoroughly vetting folks who come here to earn America’s blessed freedoms, and taking strong action against those who would harm us or weaken our treasured American values.

The Muslim Americans I have met in San Antonio want those same things. syerkes@localcommunitynews.com

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OUR TURN Views and opinions about your community

Safe Exchange Zones help reduce risk of e-commerce sales

I

n this age of do-it-yourself Internet shopping using classified websites and other exchanges, some transactions when buyer and seller meet can be problematic or hazardous.

Therefore, the City Council’s decision to support Safe Exchange Zones at the six San Antonio Police Department substations makes perfect sense.

The idea, championed by District 10 Councilman Mike Gallagher, received unanimous approval from fellow elected leaders just a few weeks ago. Under this system, individuals who arrange to buy and sell merchandise over the Web, but decide to finalize the process in person, can meet in a secure area at a substation.

The Safe Exchange Zones are designated sites in the parking lots to transfer and pay for products listed on online marketplaces including Craigslist and Facebook. The spots are under camera surveillance, but if the parties involved desire additional security, they can go inside to the substation lobby.

The city’s substations — which started around the time of Chief Charles Rodriguez in the 1980s, and continued under the progressive administration of Chief William Gibson — are always staffed by sworn personnel, conveniently located and well-lit.

An appointment to use these new rendezvous destinations is not needed, but calling ahead to the police substation is always appreciated.

Anyone can use the service.

While in-person exchanges based on Internet sales usually take place without incident, there still have been enough episodes nationwide involving fraud, assault and even worse to warrant the local Safe Exchange Zones.

One of the obligations of government is to protect its citizens, and the council — working with the Police Department — is fulfilling this duty by creating these safe havens.

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

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HAPPENING LOCAL

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

OUR GUIDE TO YOUR MONTH

ART

FITNESS

HEALTH INSURANCE

WEDNESDAYS On Wednesdays and Thursdays THURSDAYS

during January, certified “navigators” will be available at the Cody Branch Library to help you enroll in a health insurance plan under the Affordable Care Act before the Jan. 31 deadline.

The times are 1-5 p.m. on Wednesdays and noon-4 p.m. on Thursdays. Cody Library is at 11441 Vance Jackson Road.

RAIN GARDENS Members of the San Antonio River Authority 16 staff will lay out the benefits of creating a rain garden – it beautifies, attracts pollinators and improves water quality – and then tell you how to establish one. Ideas for the design will be discussed as part of hands-on activities. The session runs from 10 a.m. to noon at the Urban Ecology Center at Phil Hardberger Park.

Admission is free, though a donation of $3 a person or $5 per family is suggested.

The center is near the park’s western entrance, 8400 N.W. Military Highway.

JANUARY

LIBRARIES CLOSED All San Antonio Public 18 Library sites will be closed in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

JANUARY

SCHOOL’S OUT Classes are cancelled in the Northside 18 and North East independent school districts in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

JANUARY

RESTAURANT WEEK wide variety of San Antonio 18-23 A restaurants will be offering fixed-price three-course meals, with some

JANUARY

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of the proceeds going to the food and hospitality programs of Culinaria San Antonio. Tier 1 meals will be $15 at lunch and $35 at dinner; Tier 2 prices are $10 and $25. Participating restaurants include Thai Topaz, 2177 N.W. Military Highway, in Tier 2 and Bolo’s Rotisserie Grill at the Omni Colonnade, 9821 Colonnade Blvd., in Tier 1. A full list can be found at culinariasa.org.

Reservations are recommended and should be made with the individual restaurant.

MASTER OF JURISPRUDENCE PROGRAM

NISD TRUSTEES The Northside Independent 19 School District board meets at 7 p.m. in the boardroom at 5900 Evers Road.

JANUARY

ROCKS & SOILS & PLANT LIFE On this outing in Phil 23 Hardberger Park’s Nature Walk series, Randy Killian-Smith will talk about how soil is related to rocks and soil’s effects on the plants that grow in it. The session is from 8 to 10 a.m. and starts with a short talk in the classroom of the park’s Urban Ecology Center, 8400 N.W. Military Highway. It’s free, though a donation of $3 a person or $5 per family is suggested.

JANUARY

SHAVANO PARK The Shavano Park City Council 25 will hold its monthly meeting at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall, 900 Saddletree Court.

JANUARY

“THE DIVINERS” The Barshop Community Center’s 4-28 Jewish Sheldon Vexler Theatre presents a drama, set in small-town Indiana during the Great Depression, that follows the

FEBRUARY

HAPPENING continues on pg. 06

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6 HAPPENING continues from pg. 05 friendship between a childlike young man and a disillusioned preacher. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. Thursdays, 8 p.m. Saturdays and 2:30 p.m. Sundays. Tickets, $16-$22, are available by calling the box office, 3026835. The Vex is on the Campus of the San Antonio Jewish Community, 12500 N.W. Military Highway at Wurzbach Parkway.

THE CENTER OF ATTENTION

NEISD TRUSTEES North East Independent School 8 District trustees are scheduled to meet at 5:30 p.m. in the NEISD board room, 8961 Tesoro Drive.

FEBRUARY

FEBRUARY

9

CASTLE HILLS The City Council meets at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall, 209 Lemonwood Drive.

ELSEWHERE IN SAN ANTONIO “RHAPSODY IN BLUE” This year’s San Antonio Symphony 15-17 winter series, the Las Americas Festival, focuses on great composers of the Western Hemisphere. Besides George Gershwin’s famous Rhapsody, this weekend’s performances will feature his “Cuban” Overture, “I Got Rhythm” and “Catfish Row.” Rounding out the show will be works by Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn. Shows are at 8 p.m. Jan. 15-16 and 2 p.m. Jan. 17 at the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts, 100 Auditorium Circle. Tickets range from $20 to $96 and are available online at tobi.tobincenter.org.

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RETIRED TEACHERS MEETING North San Antonio Retired 20 Teachers Association holds its monthly meeting at San Pedro Presbyterian Church, 14900 San Pedro Ave. The program is preceded by a social gathering at 10 a.m.

The group meets the third Wednesday of each month during the school year.

Members are encouraged to bring friends.

JANUARY

For All Your 2016 Needs Over 65 unique shops and fabulous choices for casual dining

SONS OF CONFEDERATE VETERANS, CAMP 153 19 Hood’s Texas Brigade, Camp 153, meets at 7 p.m. at Grady’s Bar-B-Q, 6510 San Pedro Ave. Members and guests are welcome to eat beginning at 6 p.m.; no reservations are required. The Camp meets the third Tuesday of each month.

For more, visit www.hoodstexasbde.com.

JANUARY

SONS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION The San Antonio 20 Chapter of the national organization holds its monthly luncheon at 11:30 a.m. at the Petroleum Club, 8620 N. New Braunfels Ave. Lunch costs $25.

RSVPs are required. Call Bob Clark at 402-0871, or email to reservations@sarsat.

JANUARY

HAPPENING continues on pg. 07

7

SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM HAPPENING continues from pg. 06

plant exchange at 6:30 p.m., followed by the program at 7 p.m. – David Vaughan will discuss “What Every Gardener Should Know About Soil.” The meeting site is Lions Field Adult Center, 2809 Broadway.

org by the Monday before the meeting.

The chapter meets on the third Wednesday of each month, except July and August.

SAN ANTONIO CIVIL WAR ROUND TABLE The group meets 21 the third Thursday of each month at Grady’s Bar-B-Q, 6510 San Pedro Ave., for a 6 p.m. dinner and 7 p.m. meeting.

Those interested in Civil War history are invited to share stories and ideas. No reservations are required. For more, contact Nancy Hodges at lyndz76@yahoo.com or Daniel Snell at surveyking@satx.rr.com.

HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS basketball institution will 26, 28 This couple comedy with eyepopping ball skills in two family shows at the AT&T Center, at 7 p.m. both nights.

Tickets to the games start at $13 and are available by calling 800-745-3000 or at Ticketmaster.com, the AT&T Center box office and harlemglobetrotters.com.

JANUARY

JANUARY

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THE POWER OF A DREAM This presentation in the series at 28 Villa Finale Museum & Gardens features former Mayor Phil Hardberger discussing the quality-of-life improvements he helped bring to the city, including extension of the River Walk and the creation of Haven for Hope. The conversation starts at 6 p.m. in the home’s Napoleon Parlors; tickets, $30, can be reserved by calling 2239800. Villa Finale is at 401 King William St.

JANUARY

MONSTER JAM The huge JANUARY trucks are back for two 23-24 adrenaline-pumping shows in the Alamodome. The Party in the Pits, from 2 to 5:30 p.m. Jan. 23, offers a visit with the drivers and a close-up view of the machines; that evening’s show is at 7, and the Jan. 24 show is at 2 p.m.

Tickets start at $10 and are available at Ticketmaster.com as well as the box office.

SUBMITTING EVENTS: Email all

NATIVE PLANT SOCIETY OF TEXAS The monthly meeting of 26 the organization’s San Antonio chapter will start with a seed and native

JANUARY

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Working with highly skilled artisans, Lili Alessandra transforms luxurious linens into magnificent works of art for the home. Home collections include a complete line of decorative pillows, coverlets, bedding, drapery panels, upholstered headboards and occasional furniture.

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JAN. 11 - FEB. 8, 2016

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

facility open 24/7 that offers fast and comprehensive service, on-site radiology and lab tests. For more, call 564-9790 or visit www.inwood-er.com or facebook. com/InwoodEmergencyClinic.

Name of local business

6. SCULPT AWAY, 9991 Interstate 10 West in 1. EMBERS WOOD FIRE GRILL & BAR, 9818 Interstate 10 West, is a

restaurant and tavern serving up American favorites — such as steaks, pizzas, burgers and more — cooked on a wood-fire grill. The lunch menu features 15 items for $10 or less.

Hours are 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. For more, call 562-3075 or visit www.emberssa. com or Facebook.com/Embers-WoodFire-Grill-Bar. (See story on page 26)

2. MITCHELL REALTY, 1010 N.W. Loop

410, Suite 1010, celebrated a ribboncutting Oct. 16 in Castle Hills and offers services in buying or selling homes.

Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, and on weekends by appointment. For more, call 549-4037 or visit www.mitchellrealtyllc.com or www.facebook.com/MitchellRealtyLLC. (See story on page 24)

3. THE BREAD BOX, 555 W. Bitters

Road, Suite 115, offers bread baked daily from scratch using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The bakers said bread should reflect a belief of keeping life simple, local and fresh. Hours are 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Saturday. For more, call 383-6353 or visit thebreadboxsa.com/ or facebook.com/ thebreadboxsa. (See story on page 27)

4. LILI ALESSANDRA HOME, 1207

N. Loop 1604 West, Suite 115 in The Vineyard at Blanco Road, offers fine linens, soft furnishings, bedspreads, decorative pillows, drapery panels, throws, bed skirts, upholstered bed boards and home accessories. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Monday through Saturday. To learn more, visit www.lilialessandra.com or facebook. com/lilialessandra. (See story on page 25)

5. INWOOD EMERGENCY CLINIC,

16403 Huebner Road, is an emergency

The Colonnade III, offers body-shaping and beautification services, designing programs for long-term success by combining medical technology and therapies, nutritional education, supplements, body and mind fitness and relaxation, according to a release. Other services include a rejuvenation bar, a salt room, massages, infrared sauna and yoga. Hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday; 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and closed Sunday and Monday. For more, call 227-3051 or visit www.sculptaway.com.

7. ALON AESTHETICS, 11503 N.W. Military Highway, Suite 117 in Alon Town Centre, offers plastic and reconstructive surgical procedures, as well as skin care and injectable fillers under the direction of board-certified plastic surgeon Regina Fearmonti. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Monday through Friday. For more, call 343-1089 or visit alonaesthetics.com.

8. ASIAN STAR SUPPER BUFFET,

9910 Colonial Square, uses 100 percent

vegetable oil for cooking and offers an all-you-can-eat selection that includes Mongolian, sushi, grilled and other dishes.

A party room is available for corporate functions and the restaurant can also host weddings. Hours are 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

IN OTHER NEWS

THE CITY OF SHAVANO PARK HAS RESTRICTED commercial and residential oak trimming to December, January, July, August and September to combat oak wilt.

The recommendation came from Texas A&M Forest Service officials, who said the five months are the safest to trim oak trees. Meanwhile, ongoing efforts by the city to contain and eradicate the deadly fungal disease have proven effective, according to officials. A tree-trimming permit is required and can be obtained at City Hall, 900 Saddletree Court, for a $35 fee. The permit is valid for 10 days.

CASTLE HILLS POLICE SAID TWO MEN ARRESTED Dec. 18 at a pawn shop near Blanco Road and Loop 1604 are being eyed in several thefts. Officers reported discovering tools believed to have been

LOWDOWN continues on pg. 09

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LOWDOWN continues from pg. 08 used to commit burglaries and found dozens of suspected stolen items, including firearms, according to investigators. A car the suspects drove had been reported stolen from Austin. Police say they have returned some items to owners. The two suspects were booked into the Bexar County Jail and face a variety of charges, investigators said.

THE SAN ANTONIO BOARD OF REALTORS APPOINTED its new leadership team as well as the 2016 board of directors and executive committee during an installation and awards brunch Dec. 16 at the Éilan Hotel & Spa. Bob Jacobs was sworn in as board chairman. “Bob will be a key player in 2016 by leading the largest trade association in the area while strengthening the value of Realtors as the most knowledgeable and trusted source for real estate in San Antonio and the surrounding areas,” said Angela Shields, SABOR president and CEO. “His integrity, experience and guidance will allow our growing membership to continue making this the best place to buy and sell real estate.” Other new directors include Michele Bunting Ross as chairwoman-elect and K. Duncan Martin II as secretary/treasurer.

THE UNIVERSITY INTERSCHOLASTIC LEAGUE, the state’s governing body for extracurricular public school activities, will release its biennial lists of competitive football and basketball districts for the 2016-17 and 2017-18 school years on Feb. 1. Most area high schools are expected to remain in Class 6A, though their district assignments could hinge on reassignments of other regional schools. In November, the UIL announced plans to raise 6A enrollments by 50 students – from a base of 2,100 students to 2,150 and above. North East Independent School District’s seven high schools – Churchill, Johnson, Lee, MacArthur, Madison, Reagan and Roosevelt – currently alone in District 26-6A, could either stand pat or be joined by others. The same could be said in District 25-6A, which last fall saw four of its seven football teams advance to the state quarterfinals for the first time since 2007. Steele, Clemens, Canyon, Smithson Valley, Judson, Wagner and New Braunfels might continue competing in the same district, join the NEISD schools or possibly enter an Austin-area 6A district.

The announcement will be televised live in a morning broadcast on Fox Sports Southwest.

ANTONIAN COLLEGE PREPARATORY HIGH SCHOOL VARSITY BOYS BASKETBALL COACH Charlie Boggess resigned his position as head coach on Dec. 19, saying it was time to step down after a long career. Boggess, 66, has an overall career

LOWDOWN continues on pg. 10

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10 LOWDOWN continues from pg. 09 coaching record of 916-358, making him the winningest area basketball coach, according to officials. Boggess was in the middle of his fifth year coaching the Apaches, after coaching at Alamo Heights High School.

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SPEED LIMITS ON NEW SEGMENTS OF Wurzbach Parkway, between Wetmore and Blanco roads, have increased from 45 mph to 60 mph. Texas Department of Transportation officials said new signs indicating the change have been installed, with the first signs posted between Wetmore and Jones-Maltsberger roads. The Texas Transportation Commission approved the changes after TxDOT completed a speed study of the corridor, which had 45 mph limits in several areas until construction finished earlier this year. The new 60 mph limit also covers Blanco to Northwest Military Highway, and speeds are 50 mph from Northwest Military to LockhillSelma Road. Speeds on the remainder of Wurzbach Parkway remain unchanged, with much of the road posted at 40 mph.

CHURCHILL HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT Nicole Aragon was chosen as the 2015 Time Warner Cable New

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A SCHOOLWIDE PANTRY LAUNCHED BY CHURCHILL HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS ensures pupils who do not have regular meals at home don’t go hungry. Churchill is asking community members to donate nonperishable dry goods to help stock and maintain the pantry. Food distribution started Jan. 4, with items given to students in need three days a week.

A SECOND YEARLY SPANISH SPELLING BEE HELD Dec. 1 by the North East Independent School District saw middleschool students Jybr Reynoso of Bradley, Amy Torres of Bradley and Danna Ramos of Eisenhower crowned first-, second- and third-place winners, respectively, from 11 pupils, including some hailing from Garner and Nimitz. In addition, 16 students from Castle Hills, Coker, Terrell Hills, Regency Place, Roan Forest, Steubing Ranch and Walzem elementary schools also competed.

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SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM NEISD continues from pg. 01

Report on other Lee traditions expected in spring

by BAIN SERNA

T

he new challenge for Lee High School is to change its image, though the name — which critics claim glorifies the Confederacy and slavery — will remain the same after the school board decided not to drop it.

The North East Independent School District board Dec. 7 voted 5-2 to keep the name of Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee in the wake of warring petitions, one arguing it be removed and another urging that it remain.

“We now have the task of changing the image of Robert E. Lee without changing the name,” said District 2 trustee Edd White, who is African American. “The administration will report on the progress sometime in the

spring. Personally, I think it’s an impossible task but we will see what is recommended.”

White and fellow trustee Jim Wheat voted to change the name; Letti Bresnahan, Shannon Grona, Sandy Hughey, Brigitte Perkins and Sandi Wolff decided against White’s motion to rename the school.

District officials will now review the issue of Confederate symbols and mascots on the Lee campus, though the overt use of the Confederate battle flag and other icons was discontinued by the school in 1991.

A petition with thousands of names in favor of removing Lee's name was started in the fall by Kayla Wilson, a Lee senior who is African American. Wilson said she and others find the name offensive, adding it is a reminder of slavery.

But that is not the view of everyone, said Karen Craig, a Lee Class of 1972 graduate who led a counterpetition to maintain the name.

“The NEISD board took a courageous, correct stance against unbelievable intense pressure in this difficult process,” Craig said. “They are all to be commended and respected for their service. The board’s majority vote for no name change recognizes and reflects both the great pride of Robert E. Lee High School’s contributions within the

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NEISD continues from pg. 11 Lee community and the city of San Antonio.”

She added, “It also acknowledges to alumni a reinforcement recognizing the outstanding achievements and lifelong heritage bond of being a Robert E. Lee High School Volunteer. Alumni stay actively connected and we are deeply grateful and appreciative of the NEISD board’s integrity and positive leadership by this decision.”

Superintendent Brian Gottardy said district officials carefully weighed the views offered by all sides in the controversy.

“Over the past six months, our trustees have heard from many in the community, answered hundreds of emails, and reviewed minutes from multiple meetings when the school was originally named (in 1958),” he said. “I support our trustees and all the work they have done.”

The decision was not an easy one, he added.

“It was an incredibly difficult process that weighed on them heavily, but in the end they worked as a team and voted their conscience,” Gottardy said. “I believe it is important now for us, as a district, to move forward in a positive light. We must focus on our students, their success and our ability to deliver the best education possible. This is why we are here, and

A statue of Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee is prominently displayed at the high school bearing his name. For now, the name remains despite calls to drop it because the old South supported slavery.

Photo by Rudy B. Ornelas

this is what our students expect of us.”

Lee, a Virginian, led the Confederate Army during the American Civil War of 1861-65. Proponents of the name change say the Confederacy was pro-slavery and that Lee, by leading Confederate forces, helped to defend the bondage of African Americans in the South.

Proponents against the name change cite Lee’s honorable service as a U.S. Army officer before the Civil War, and also say Lee was a man caught up in the difficult circumstances of his time. Those against the name change also cite school pride, tradition and history. Others have also cited the financial cost of scrubbing a school’s name and physically replacing it on buildings, stationery, equipment and so on.

“This was one of the most difficult debates the board has seen,” said District 3 trustee Wolff. “Understandably, people are very passionate on both sides and it wasn’t easy to come to a decision. As a board, we spent a lot of time thinking and researching this issue. In the end, we felt like we had really heard from the community.”

“Our board has been dealing with this very emotional issue for the last several months,” said District 6 trustee and board President Bresnahan. “It has not been easy, and it has made us all really reflect upon what this name means. Unfortunately, we are most

aware that we are unable to please everyone.”

According to Bresnahan, Wheat asked NEISD officials to research and review mascots, symbols and other images at the school.

“My viewpoint regarding this is that we as a school district do not want to propagate icons which are symbolic of racial divide, hostility, discrimination. I believe this is the reason the Confederate flag was removed in the ’90s,” she said.

The Confederate flag has been adopted by extremist and racist groups, she added.

The board is waiting on the report before making a decision whether to change anything at Lee. “We look forward to the report from the administration regarding any Confederate symbols that are still in use at Lee,” Wolff said. “I am in favor of a policy to provide procedures for all school campuses which considers current students, alumni and does not place the financial burden of changing a school’s name on NEISD.”

I SUPPORT OUR TRUSTEES AND ALL THE WORK THEY HAVE DONE. BRIAN GOTTARDY, NEISD SUPERINTENDENT

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mbarking on its 31st year, Vance Jackson Neighborhood Inc. is looking to increase its membership while continuing to tackle issues ranging from growth to having a voice at City Hall, leaders say.

“As 2016 kicks off, we are focused on increasing membership to ensure more of our community is represented on our board, and consolidating our area’s issues into a common set of clear goals when brought to city staff,” said VJNI Vice President Matthew McCrossen.

The VJNI, a North Side volunteer association that started in 1985 in opposition to a proposed multifamily development, is made up of many neighborhoods in an area defined by Interstate 10 West, Callaghan and Huebner roads and the railroad tracks paralleling Vance Jackson Road. Initiatives that arose in the annual

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“We will see what our members have to say this January (2016) about fulfilling our mission to ‘facilitate community inclusiveness, civic interest, investment and involvement to sustain and improve the quality of life for residents,’” said VJNI President June Kachtik. “I like working with a group of people to accomplish common goals.”

Neighbors outlined several issues for VJNI to address in the months ahead — zoning, working with the city, signage not covered by city codes, enforcement

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of nuisance ordnances, preservation of home values and improvements, and regulating unkempt houses.

In addition to raising awareness about commercial and residential growth, the organization focuses on public participation in city elections and city leadership.

“The Vance Jackson Neighborhood Inc. has had a long tradition of actively engaging its residents and neighbors in surrounding communities, an effort that has helped them achieve positive changes in their community,” said District 8 Councilman Ron Nirenberg. “Through their active involvement in the development and growth of the I-10 corridor, they have shown how neighbors can work together to ensure that quality of life is maintained and improved through collaboration.”

He added, “Their dedication and presence has also helped them build long-lasting relationships with local leaders. I’m grateful that they have had consistent, capable and thoughtful leadership. They represent a strong model for civic engagement in our city.”

A major highlight of 2015 for the VJNI was a forum the association held for candidates running in the municipal elections. The event was held at the Colonies House, 3511 Colony Drive, and among

those who attended were Nirenberg and District 9 Councilman Joe Krier, as well as former state Rep. Mike Villarreal, who launched an unsuccessful bid for mayor.

According to Kachtik, the VJNI hosted the meeting because part of its mission as a neighborhood association is to help residents become informed about civic events.

“We proved that VJNI has changed into an open and communitywide inclusive organization, politically neutral, and an innovative group of volunteers coming together with our special talents as a team to organize very successful events,” McCrossen said.

According to McCrossen, VJNI has three main functions.

First, the association is an information conduit between city staffers and members, often using print and digital mediums to offer timely and relevant information for homeowners and voters. Second, the association acts as a single voice for community issues that members ask to be brought to City Hall. Last, the association brings together the community through hosted events.

“As the new year begins, I have an overwhelming sense of accomplishment from the progress we have made to rebrand our association, and from the support and participation of our community in the events we host,” McCrossen said.

To learn more, visit www.vjni.org.

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Voter approval of Proposition 7, expected to generate $2.5 billion to $3 billion for statewide transportation measures beginning in 2018, has changed the overall roadmap.

MPO continues on pg. 16

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MPO continues from pg. 15 Old plans, calling for partial funding through tolls, are being re-evaluated as non-tolled projects – with some, including controversial high-occupancy vehicle lanes, unpalatable to many drivers and officials alike.

“The only thing less popular than toll roads are roads that are congested and in disrepair,” said District 8 Councilman Ron Nirenberg. “Tolls are an option of last resort, and I’m in favor of removing them when revenue is available to expand and maintain San Antonio roadways using the precious few resources we have for infrastructure.”

On Jan. 25, the MPO will seek non-tolled options for a $200 million revision of I-10 north of Loop 1604 and a $532 million expansion of 281 from 1604 to the Comal County line.

Existing plans already have received federal, Texas Department of Transportation and other area funding, as well as MPO authorization. However, retooling both as non-tolled could necessitate additional environmentalstudy reviews and public-input sessions, possibly further delaying construction.

There’s nearly $200 million for I-10 tolled improvements to add four tolled lanes along a 5.7-mile span from La Cantera Parkway north to Ralph Fair Road, and $130 million for direct

connectors linking La Cantera and 1604.

Tolling would’ve expedited the construction timetable.

“We can no longer build our way out of the transportation issues that we face,” Nirenberg said. “Plus, it doesn’t work. We need a comprehensive, multimodal transportation plan and implementation strategy to accommodate growth in our region and ensure quality of life in the years to come.”

There is $71.8 million available to add one free lane and high-occupancy vehicle lane in each direction on the 5.7-mile stretch on I-10. The non-tolled option, however, lacks financing to complete the direct connectors – a $58.2 million shortfall, which also could defer that part of the project until Proposition 7 funds roll in.

MPO Director Isidro Martinez said non-tolled designations to improve I-10 and 281 exchange previously guaranteed private-funding sources for Proposition 7 dollars, unavailable for two years. He added that HOV components in both are because of requests from VIA Metropolitan Transit, which also contributes funds to area projects.

During the MPO’s Dec. 7 meeting, retiree Don Dixon questioned why.

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MPO continues on pg. 17

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SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM MPO continues from pg. 16 is the waste in it,” he said. “Two of those lanes are bus-HOV lanes, which are always underutilized. We get virtually nothing into putting $35 million for two lanes that very few people will use. We’re having false hopes in using our tax money to build those lanes – it’s a waste of money.”

County commissioners and Transportation Policy Board members Tommy Calvert and Kevin Wolff also have reservations about HOV-lanes. Terri Hall, founder and director of the anti-toll group Texans Uniting for Reform & Freedom, or TURF, remains firmly against HOV lanes as part of non-tolled improvements.

“We applaud the removal of tolls from these vital corridors, whose residents have been stuck in a quagmire of political controversy over double taxation for a decade,” she said. “However, we fear the HOV-bus lanes will only continue the congestion problems for commuters.

“The best solution is to add generalpurpose lanes all Texans can access, especially considering that every taxpayer’s money is being used to build these lanes.”

Proposition 7 funding will also help steer the next regional transportation blueprint.

Officials said $100 million is accessible for the latest projects, though additional allocations

could be expected through other means.

Area agencies are requesting $414.6 million for 41 proposals to update the regional Transportation Improvement Program, a federally required list of proposed projects submitted by local agencies and governments over a fouryear period, amended every two years.

Projects are scored on technical merit and public input during a four-month process, leading to a final submission to TxDOT representatives in May. Officials said public involvement in the procedure should begin sometime in February.

Notable area proposals include $15 million for intersection improvements and additional turn lanes on Wurzbach Parkway between Northwest Military Highway (FM 1535) and Lockhill-Selma Road; $6.5 million for Northwest Military improvements between Huebner Road and Loop 1604; $7.5 million to widen Northwest Military north of 1604; and $3.5 million to construct turnaround lanes for the 1604 overpass linking Bitters and Rogers Ranch roads.

TPB members on Jan. 25 will also examine amendments to the MPO’s 2015-18 TIP, which distributed more than $215 million in funds to improve and expand roadways, hike-bike trails and other amenities as part of the regional Surface Transportation Program.

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The City Council recently approved creating Safe Exchange Zones at San Antonio’s six police substations, including the North Substation at 13030 Jones Maltsberger Road and the Prue Road Substation at 5020 Prue Road.

Those finishing e-commerce transactions face to face can meet in specially marked parking areas monitored by surveillance cameras, or go indoors to the lobby where police are on duty.

No appointment is necessary.

JAN. 11 - FEB. 8, 2016 District 10 Councilman Mike Gallagher, supported by SAPD, led the campaign to reduce any likelihood of criminal activity occurring as a result of an online marketplace exchange through deals originating on sites such as Craigslist.

“We just felt there needed to be a solution,” he said. The council OK’d the program Oct. 22.

Police said historically the parties rarely know each other in these procedures, creating a potential for robbery or other crimes.

“We suggest residents consider this a safer option when arranging a location to conduct a legal, private transaction, whether arranged online or by other means,” said police Sgt. Javier Salazar in a city video posted not long after the council’s vote.

The number of cities implementing similar secure zones is rising, with Arlington the latest in Texas.

According to a television news report there, Arlington officials recognized as additional people shop online, more individuals with criminal intent might capitalize on a sense of vulnerability and complacency.

Gallagher spoke with Police Chief William McManus and realized it was a

EXCHANGE continues on pg. 19

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San Antonio Police Chief William McManus and District 10 Councilman Mike Gallagher meet outside the North Substation on the edge of McAllister Park, where the pair helped establish a Safe Exchange Zone for those finishing e-commerce transactions in person. There is a zone at each of the city's six substations. Photo

by Rudy B. Ornelas

EXCHANGE continues from pg. 18 problem gaining visibility nationwide.

With Internet commerce’s popularity on the rise, San Antonio leaders wanted to have protected places to finish those deals, officials said. Craigslist reported more than 60 million accounts as of late November.

According to a city press release,

there have been several instances of online transactions turning violent around the country.

“We’re constantly looking for ways to encourage our community to feel safe, welcome and secure,” Salazar said in the video. “Safe Exchange Zones do just that.”

EXCHANGE continues on pg. 20

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EXCHANGE continues from pg. 19 Rebecca Kaufmann Podowski, a spokeswoman with Gallagher’s office, said SAPD doesn’t have comprehensive figures on any specific incidents reported in the city.

Regardless, SAPD and the city’s Public Safety Committee felt compelled to be proactive, Gallagher said.

The councilman has received positive feedback at community meetings for implementing the secure areas, he added.

“I have heard from some people — they just wanted to feel safe in completing a transaction, and not feel uncomfortable in another person’s place,” Gallagher said. “That reinforced for us that we’re on the right path.”

Because Safe Exchange Zones use existing camera-monitored police parking lots and don’t require hiring more personnel, the new program comes at no cost to the taxpayers.

Gallagher said so far in trades taking place at the substations, police haven’t needed to intervene nor seen anyone entering the lobby to finish a transaction.

He said the city could consider expanding the number of secure spots, but it depends on how busy the substations become.

“We would then see what other places would be acceptable to do

SAFETY TIPS FOR IN-PERSON E-COMMERCE EXCHANGES: n Meet in a public place n Never go alone n Trust your instincts n Be cautious n Meet during daylight n Tell someone where you’re going n Take your cellphone Source: San Antonio Police Department

that,” the councilman added.

Gallagher said another benefit is the Safe Exchange Zones encourage residents to get better acquainted with their neighborhood police officers.

“It forces people to know where our substations are. Some have never even been to a substation for any reason,” he added.

In addition to a YouTube video, the city is publicizing the Safe Exchange Zones via SAPD social media and with public officials informing the community at gatherings.

“We’re going to never have to let up on spreading the word,” Gallagher said. “It’s essential that this become a constant reminder that it is now just another service the city provides.”

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McRaven advises audience to make a difference

by COLLETTE ORQUIZ

T

he North East Independent School District’s fledgling Wall of Heroes is open to more recipients, but competition is tough — this year’s honoree, the first, helped coordinate the attack that took out terrorist Osama bin Laden.

The district honored Roosevelt High School 1973 graduate and retired Navy Adm. William “Bill” McRaven with a plaque and his story on the Wall of Heroes at Heroes Stadium. McRaven is chancellor of the University of Texas System.

“I’ve been fortunate to be recognized by presidents and kings and prime ministers; frankly, nothing means more to me than being recognized by my friends from high school and by the North East Independent School District,”

McRaven said in his acceptance speech.

Last spring, NEISD selected McRaven from eight eligible candidates.

Nominations are only accepted during odd-numbered years.

“Admiral McRaven was chosen because of his stellar military career, his long list of honors and accomplishments, his dedication to his family and country, the example he sets for others, his work ethic and the fact that he is a Roosevelt High School graduate,” said NEISD spokeswoman Aubrey Chancellor.

According to the school district, President Barack Obama credits McRaven for helping plan and direct the Navy SEAL raid contributing to the May 2011 death of the al-Qaida founder and one of the masterminds behind 9/11.

It’s been 40 years since McRaven set foot in his alma mater, but he said his trip was like a homecoming. During a 10-minute address Oct. 16, he gave thanks and advice to the Rough Rider JROTC Battalion in the crowd.

Battalion commander cadet Lt. Col. Samantha Bakaysa, a senior, and freshman Aries McLachlan took photos with McRaven and his wife Georgeann Brady McRaven.

“It’s not everyday that you get to

HEROES continues on pg. 22

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be chosen to stand next to a war hero and his wife, and get to shake his hand.

That’s not like a daily basis thing, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance,” Aries said.

Future nominations, available by contacting NEISD or emailing achanc@ neisd.net, include a form and a written essay, which touches on the following criteria: n Demonstrated courage, service and self-sacrifice in one’s life’s work, which brought honor to family or community n Made a positive impact in the lives of current and future generations through unselfish commitment to community/military service n Excelled academically and/or achieved a high level of postgraduate success n Is deserving of enshrinement on the Wall of Heroes NEISD officials said the new program recognizes and celebrates achievements of people who embody heroic values while making a positive impact in their community. The school board approves final selections.

The wall is situated on the home side of the field at Heroes Stadium, 4799 Thousand Oaks Drive. The building grew out of the 2007 bond program. The district’s other events complex is Blossom Athletic Center.

JAN. 11 - FEB. 8, 2016 McRaven joined the military as a SEAL, and recently ended a 37-year career. He graduated from the University of Texas at Austin in 1977 with a bachelor’s degree in journalism, followed by a master’s degree from the Naval Postgraduate School in 1991.

His last assignment was leading U.S. Special Operations Command, where he conducted counter-terrorism campaigns worldwide.

McRaven has received numerous accolades, including a Distinguished Alumnus Award from the University of Texas, the Légion d’Honneur from France, 2011 Texan of the Year, and the USO’s 2013 Military Distinguished Service Award.

Bakaysa is proud of McRaven’s Roosevelt roots.

“He’s not this high exalted person, he’s down-to-earth, he’s like us,” the cadet said.

Speaking at Roosevelt, McRaven said “one act of courage, one act of kindness, or one act of compassion” could make a huge difference.

“Never, ever pass up a chance to help someone. Never, ever pass up the chance to be kind. The students you help can go on to change the world and you can be a part of it,” said the military man who actually never joined Roosevelt’s JROTC. He attributes his success to

HEROES continues on pg. 23

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Retired Navy Adm. William 'Bill' McRaven (second from left), Roosevelt High School Class of 1973, is the first honoree on the North East Independent School District's Wall of Heroes. Joining McRaven during his recognition ceremony are Superintendent Brian Gottardy (left), Roosevelt Army JROTC cadets Samantha Bakaysa and Aries McLachlan, and McRaven's wife Georgeann Brady McRaven (right). Photo by Collette Orquiz

HEROES continues from pg. 22 friends and family, but also his high school teachers and coaches.

Col. Robert Foutz, one of three Army instructors for Roosevelt’s JROTC, said the admiral’s words inspired the students.

“It was a sea of gray uniforms all the way up to the second row. As he talked, there wasn’t a phone out, there wasn’t a sleepy eye, every cadet was glued to Adm. McRaven’s comments,” Foutz said. “I just felt that energy, that sense

of inspiration, that desire to say I’m a part of this great organization.”

McRaven also spoke to the Rough Rider football players and admitted being more of a benchwarmer than a player when he was on the Roosevelt team.

“For all of us that spent time in high school, they are formative years and they make a difference and they really do kind of start your trajectory towards the future. If it was a good experience, which mine was great, then you go off and do good things,” McRaven said.

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ASTLE HILLS — Mitchell Realty grew out of realestate broker Mari Mitchell’s determination to steer her own course.

“The company I was working with (previously) was thinking about a merger and their future was unsure,” Mitchell said. “I wanted to be in control of my own fate. A manager at the time asked me to get into real estate with her and I did. I absolutely love my career in real estate.”

Bringing expertise to customers looking to buy or sell a home or property is what she and her team are dedicated to providing, she added.

Mitchell Realty at 1010 N.W. Loop 410, Suite 101, celebrated

a ribbon-cutting Oct. 16.

“I have been at our current location a little over (three) months,” Mitchell said. “I absolutely love the location.

Our neighbors are wonderful and the visibility off the highway is perfect.”

Mitchell has been in real estate since 2003, and entered the profession because she is passionate about it, she said.

Mitchell Realty is a fullservice company that handles residential, commercial, rentals, land, and farm and ranch.

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ince its inception seven years ago, Lili Alessandra has become the well-established darling of the luxury linen wholesale market, serving hundreds of retail shops in the United States, Canada, Mexico and Panama.

In early December, owner Sandra Hernandez Yedor opened the San Antoniobased company's first retail enterprise — Lili Alessandra Home — at 1207 N. Loop 1604 West, Suite 115 in The Vineyard at the intersection with Blanco Road.

“We have been selling wholesale for the past few years to specialty stores and places like Neiman Marcus,” she said.

“Now, I decided to open a retail space in my hometown of San Antonio.”

Outlets for Lili Alessandra products can be found in several Texas locales including Dallas or Houston, but nothing like this has been available locally until now, Hernandez Yedor said.

This direct-to-consumer mechanism is one of the main reasons she decided to open in the Stone Oak area, selling fine linens, but also offering a “lifestyle store” which includes designeraccent furniture, chandeliers, lighting and many home accessories.

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EAT LOCAL Learn about the newest neighborhood places for breakfast, lunch, dinner or drinks

Embers wants to help patrons fire up some fun Cathy and Charlie Amato and Rick Riley.

Cathy Amato is also known as “the Subway Queen” because she owns more than 60 Subway franchises.

Husband Charlie Amato is the founder and board chairman of SWBC. Riley is in charge of business development for Subway franchises in Texas.

Embers has about 40 employees, and the 4,700-square-foot building seats up to 160 diners in a space renovated, remodeled and repurposed from the ground up.

“I came up with the concept, the menu and the design for the space,” said Rasmussen. “Everything we do here is wood-fired and oak-grilled. No gas.”

Menu items include The Three Little Pigs — three pork-shank “lollipops” with a slightly crispy outside and finished with a light drizzle of a raspberry chipotle sauce.

“They are phenomenal,” Rasmussen

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The eatery opened about four months ago at 9818 Interstate 10 West in the building once home to Ruby Tuesday. It is on the eastbound frontage road at Wurzbach Road.

“It’s the same owners,” said managing partner Adam Rasmussen, a San Antonio native who used to manage Ruby Tuesday, “except for the fact that Ruby Tuesday was a franchise while Embers is a one-of-a-kind. It’s the only one in the state — or the U.S, for that matter.”

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In the photo above, Embers Wood Fire Grill & Bar lead cook Kevin Ventera prepares The Butchers Block pizza. Also on the menu are (top left) a grilled sirloin steak and (bottom left) a jalapeño pepper jack burger. Photos by Collette Orquiz

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EAT LOCAL Learn about the newest neighborhood places for breakfast, lunch, dinner or drinks

Bread Box baking up homespun delights

by OLIVIER J. BOURGOIN

I

f you’re a bread lover, you can pick up one of 15 types of that which man cannot live by alone, just by paying a visit to The Bread Box.

According to the owners, the wares from its on-site bakery are fresh, made from scratch and are locally sourced to support area farmers. Soups, salads and other dishes are also available in addition to the bread.

The loaves range from country sourdough boule, to jalapeño, cheddar bread and even potato-and-bacon at the recently opened shop, 555 W. Bitters Road, Suite 115 in The Alley on Bitters.

Before taking over the 3,500-square-foot

space that was once home to Apple Annie’s, owners Tina and Lucas Kent operated a wholesale bakery out of a nearby rented commercial kitchen the last three years.

“We are doing our best to use only locally grown ingredients,” said Tina Kent, who worked as general manager of Cappy’s for 17 years. “We are currently servicing 43 commercial accounts, mostly top hotels and restaurants and also a hospital.”

Clients include Bird Bakery, Boiler House Texas Grill & Wine Garden, Bliss, Cured, Nao, Silo and Sustenio, as well as the St. Anthony Hotel, Hotel Valencia and several food trucks.

The husband-and-wife team are longtime veterans of the food-service profession.

“We have both spent our entire lives in this industry. I was practically born on a restaurant floor. My family owned several restaurants,” Tina Kent said, adding she and her husband are San Antonio natives.

Lucas Kent worked at several area restaurants, where he honed his skills, she added.

“People would always make compliments about his bread, which is how we got the idea to start a commercial bakery,” she added.

The lunch menu includes split pea and ham soup; a fall salad with roasted beets and butternut squash, goat cheese, candied pecans and field

Bread Box fare includes a turkey club on focaccia (far left), the Bread Box Burger (above) and the BLT salad (left). Photos by Collette Orquiz

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The soup, salad and sandwich prices run from $8 to $13.

Hours are 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Monday through Saturday.

THE BREAD BOX 555 W. Bitters Road, Suite 115 For more, call 383-6353 or visit www.thebreadboxsa.com

RENEW YOUR BBQ FOR HEALTHIER, SAFER GRILLING

SAN ANTONIO 2320 BABCOCK ROAD • 210-347-3442 CASTLE HILLS 8055 WEST AVENUE • 210-377-3441

COME PARTICIPATE IN OUR “NAME YOUR OWN OMELETTE” CONTEST!

You could have an omelette named after you for all of 2016!

FREE ENTREE

Complete degreasing of the following areas: • Hood • Control Knobs • Rotisserie Racks • Pull-Out Tray • Burners • Wire Catch Pan • Drip Pan • Igniters • Thermometer Components deep cleaned in our steam bath: • Grill racks • Flavorizer bars • Heat plates

Clean and GREEN Our BBQ Cleaning Products are:

• • • • •

Effective & Efficient Biodegradable Eco-Friendly Non-Toxic Odorless

Inspection of the following parts: • Burners • Igniters • Venturi Tubes • Pressure Regulator BBQ is polished after completion

Purchase any regularly priced entree and two beverages from our regular menu and receive a second entree of equal or lesser value FREE. Present coupon before ordering. Offer valid with coupon only.

Limit one coupon per check per visit. One time use only. Not valid with any other special offer, discount or coupon. Does not include tax or tip. No cash refund.

Reproductions not accepted. Offer Expires 2/15/2016

Valid at San Antonio Jimmy’s Egg locations only.

We Cater!

Private Meeting Room Available

Authorized Repair Center

Book Appoint ing men Now! ts

“We clean it so YOU don’t have to!”

GREEN GRILLS OF TEXAS BBQ Grill Cleaning & Repair

210-716-6400

WWW.GreenGrillsofTexas.com

*****ECR WSS Postal Customer Prsrt Std US Postage Paid Permit 6450 San Antonio TX

BEST-IN-CLASS PERFORMANCE PLUS BEST-IN-CLASS CARGO SPACE. THE ALL-NEW 2016 BMW X1.

COME EXPERIENCE THE ALL-NEW 2016 BMW X1.

8434 Airport Blvd. | San Antonio, TX 78216 www.BMWofSanAntonio.com

COMMUNITY NEWS

principleauto Dealership

4204 GARDENDALE STE. 201 SAN ANTONIO, TX 78229

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