LOCAL: Castle Hills, Shavano Park, North Central, 78213, 78230, 78248, 78249 November 2014

PG.13

REVISED SHAVANO PARK ORDINANCE CITY BEEFS UP HOMES-AS-HOTELS RULE Definitions of long-term and short-term rentals refined

PG.23 Nirenberg helps broker

deal to protect bat cave, aquifer District 8 councilman

worked behind scenes to bring parties to the table

COMMUNITY NEWS VOL. 3, ISSUE 5

CASTLE HILLS

WHAT'S

INSIDE YOUR COMMUNITY

PG.17 Antonian

grad wins title of Miss Latina San Antonio

SHAVANO PARK

NORTH CENTRAL

78213 78230 78231 78248 78249

NOT GIVING UP PG.19 Hobby Middle School students say they will try

again after rocket carrying their experiment to space station blows up

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. 35

NOV. 15 - DEC. 14, 2014

PG. 31 EAT LOCAL:

MALINALLI BAKERY & BISTRO

For a breakfast pastry or a full lunch, this new North Side restaurant boasts a variety of fresh treats

PG. 30 BUY LOCAL:

TRADER JOE'S

Famous grocery franchise opens new store on Loop 1604

PG.15 Castle Hills

councilman hails vote as free-speech win

Ordinance that required city attorney to review council members’ articles in monthly newsletter has been rescinded

2

NOV. 15 - DEC. 14, 2014

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, Joyce Hotchkiss, Miranda Koerner, Lakendra Lewis, 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.

Community papers are still delivering

M

uch has been said during the last few years about the slow death of America’s daily newspapers in large metropolitan centers.

Plagued by advertising downturns, layoffs, dwindling circulation and an inability to capture younger, Internet-savvy readers, many of these publications are shadows of their former selves. Several have closed.

The same thankfully can’t be said for neighborhood newspapers such as LOCAL Community News, where readership and advertising are holding steady, and in some cases growing.

Community newspapers are bucking the doom-and-gloom trend plaguing the dailies, according to national studies.

“The latest data (on community papers)…. paints a much healthier picture for circulation and ad sales than we find with the dailies,” wrote Thad McIlroy in The Future of Publishing.

“These (community) newspapers provide much needed hyper-local news and information – typically not found anywhere else – to the communities that they serve.”

Local news is the bread and butter of community publications such as the one you hold now.

Other news sources can tell you what’s happening in the Middle East or reveal the latest antics of the Kardashians, but your local community paper is going to offer stories about the safety of school zones, recruitment by the Boy Scouts, neighborhood security and other articles directly relevant to you, your families and your neighbors.

We’re glad readers and advertisers find value in LOCAL. In return, we’ll do our part to keep filling a gap in news coverage no one else is tackling.

THOMAS EDWARDS EXECUTIVE EDITOR FACEBOOK.COM/SALOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS

3

SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM

LOCAL COMMENTARY

The Age of the Aging is upon us

by SUSAN YERKES

Old age” has changed a lot since I was young. Many of us are not only living longer, but maintaining active, healthy lifestyles that are longer, too.

The topic really hit home recently when my friend Mary Lou Miller turned 101. She volunteers helping Alzheimer’s patients and campaigning for Democratic Party candidates.

I also recently joined what seemed like half of San Antonio at a fantastic bash celebrating Rosemary Kowalski’s 90th birthday. The renowned founder of the RK Group still maintains an active role in the business and myriad organizations.

Former Mayor Lila Cockrell, who turns 93 in a couple of months, is working on a

memoir about her jam-packed life. She has said the hardest part is taking time out from all her speaking, social and community leadership gigs to sit down and write.

Then there’s Edith McAllister, 96, who famously water-skied into her tenth decade, in addition to serving important roles in many leading institutions and organizations.

And while women still have a statistical edge on guys in the longevity department, more males are continuing to make their mark well beyond 90, too.

How do they do it? And which of us will be able to “keep on ticking” that way?

Since 1900, when average life expectancy was 47 years in the United States, there has been a climb in longevity worldwide. Centenarians, once rare, look like the face of the future.

According to the Alamo Area Agency on Aging, 22 percent of the greater San Antonio population — double the statewide average — is 60 or older. By 2020, that’s expected to rise by a whopping 55 percent.

Martha Spinks, director of the Bexar Area Agency on Aging, has an even more eye-opening figure: “Between now and 2030, the number of people in the U.S. 85 or older is expected to triple.”

Of course, long life isn’t everything. The trick is maintaining the quality of life.

Most folks welcome a longer existence,

but dread the specter of disease and disability. And the economic outlook for the aged isn’t rosy. If present trends continue, most of those over 80 will live at or near the poverty line.

And just because we’re living longer doesn’t guarantee better health. Recent studies have shown the opposite. Figures from the National Health Interview Survey indicate that in 2006, 42 percent of men over 80 had some functional limitation.

“People over 80,” Spinks noted, “account for a disproportionate share of services.”

The Alamo and Bexar agencies on aging are on the front lines of helping seniors, families and caregivers. For more on care and services, check out www.askasc.org or call 477-3275.

City planners are exploring ways to cope with aging populations: More central gathering places where seniors can socialize, rather than isolate; new transportation strategies; and mixed-use developments bringing us together, not stretching us apart.

Staying active and vital as we age is

key not just for individual quality of life, but for our nation’s economic health. We’re told genetics is about 30 percent of the answer; research shows calorie-restricted diets are another factor, while plain old walking has shown to be by far the best exercise for maintaining mobility.

The Barshop Institute for Longevity and Aging Studies at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio continues to pull in major grants for groundbreaking research on Alzheimer’s and other diseases, and on rapamycin, a drug shown to not only increase life span, but improve physical and mental vitality in mice, although human trials are still years in the future.

I’ve asked some of my remarkable friends who seem to thrive well into their 90s what they consider crucial. So far, their answers have included common factors: To stay involved, to connect with others, to have a passion for something beyond themselves.

If you have more advice, let me know.

Contact Yerkes at syerkes@ salocallowdown.com.

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Thai Topaz has opened its newest location in Castle Hills, offering the same great, healthy food in a modern setting. Known as the “Home of the Spicy Mango Delight”, Thai Topaz not only serves classic Thai dishes such as Pad Thai, Pad See Ewe, Tom Kha Soup, Yum Salads, and Thai Curries to introduce our guests to Thailand’s, world-renowned cuisine, but also created customer-favorite, original recipes such as the Spicy Basil Fried Rice, Emerald Salmon, Thai Topaz Broccoli and Red Curry Mussels.

The essence of our Thai cuisine lies in the spices, fresh herbs and fresh produce we grow and purchase almost daily. Herbs such as lemongrass, basil, mint, and kaffir lime leaves are grown in our garden and used in the dishes we cook-to-order for our guests. Our dishes are freshly prepared and crafted to appeal to all tastes and dietary needs (e.g. gluten-friendly, vegetarian, vegan, etc.), combining the best flavors, textures, colors and presentation.

Always focusing on healthier alternatives, we’re the first Thai restaurant in San Antonio to introduce Thai Herbal Teas, brewing herbs and flowers that are known for its natural, healing properties. To end that perfect meal with our version of a simple, “healthy/guilty” pleasure, guests can always enjoy our homemade, seasonal ice creams for dessert, which are made with real fruits such as mango, strawberry, cantaloupe, pineapple, avocado, etc.

David, engineer-turned-restaurateur, followed in his in-laws’ footsteps after managing and operating their Medical Center location and plans to continue the success they have established in San Antonio since 2005.

His goal for this new location is to continue introducing the city of San Antonio to the art and flavors of Thai Cuisine but also to the Thai culture in a more upscale, modern environment at an affordable price for all to enjoy.

The restaurant was created and designed with these elements in mind, from the intricate, Thai wood-carving decorations placed throughout to the intimate seating arrangement and the three private banquet rooms to accommodate small parties or meetings of eight (8) to thirty (30) people.

The holiday season is just around the corner - contact Thai Topaz today to book your personal and professional, holiday events.

To schedule your reservation and obtain details contact David at (210) 290-9833 or email thaitopaz2@gmail.com.

Thai Topaz – Castle Hills 2177A NW Military Hwy San Antonio, TX 78213 www.thaitopaz.com

Obesity has a biochemical basis, and the answer to treating obesity is mainly chemical Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to your health. The more you know about a medical treatment, the better able you are to make informed decisions and discuss them with your patients. As my mentor, Herb Fred, M.D., once said: For me, the MD after my name means more than “medical doctor.” It means “making decisions.” And making correct medical decisions requires an ability to distinguish between cause and coincidence. That ability, in turn, requires knowledge of the causes and natural history of diseases.

In May, 2013, The American Medical Association (AMA) recognized obesity as a disease. This recognition calls for treatment.

Several years ago, before I knew much about medications, for weight loss, I faced obese patients in my office and simply “counseled” them on diet and exercise, saying only a few words and writing in the chart “low-fat diet discussed, patient told to exercise.” I never pursued the matter beyond those stetps.

And, of course, it never worked. The patients returned to my office over and over, as heavy as ever, and I still wrote the same useless words in the chart.

This is how I was taught to deal with obese patients. Why didn’t I pause to wonder why so many intelligent, motivated people could not lose weight and keep it off? Did they all, indeed, have a fault of character? Would any of them have chosen to be so obese if they could control it?

Fortunately, more clever people than myself were doing research at the time.

They discovered what we all might have suspected all along: Obese people are not just thin people who overeat. They are not lazy or undisciplined. Through no fault of their own, their brains are biochemically different. Obese people are persistently hungry, and therein lies their problem--they have to eat more than they need in order to feel full. It is a chemical problem, and it has a chemical answer. The medicines to fix the problem have been around for more than forty years, but no one recognized how they could be used for weight-loss until relatively recently. The best way and safest way to use these medications require a solid knowledge of their appropriate use.

Obesity is a serious medical problem which needs to be taken seriously by the patient and the doctor. Therapeutic approaches are many, and their benefits have been obvious in many patients I have seen in my practice. Do not be ashamed of your obesity and come find your solution to your problem.

Joseph Sleiman, M.D. www.txwlc.com 159009 San Pedro Ave., (281 N.) San Antonio, TX. 78232 210-402-6060

4

NOV. 15 - DEC. 14, 2014

OUR TURN Views and opinions about your community

Panhandling proposal sent the wrong idea

C

ity leaders correctly decided to abandon a proposal making it illegal to give money or goods to panhandlers, no matter how well-intentioned the idea might have been.

Such an ordinance not only would create a miserly image of the nation’s seventh-largest city, but it also represents unnecessary government regulation by telling us how to spend our money while controlling free speech.

The suggestion originated with Police Chief William McManus, who has tried the same tactic of social engineering at earlier posts.

Under McManus’ suggestion to the city’s Public Safety Committee, residents could have faced misdemeanor charges

for giving a donation to a panhandler.

The chief argued that money given to the homeless and others on the street doesn’t help them but usually feeds an addiction.

While there is much truth to this, public outcry eventually forced City Council members to back away from the idea.

There was never any need for such an ordinance. Current law already makes it illegal for panhandlers to solicit money in front of automated-teller machines, buildings, eateries and other establishments.

Second, many feared such a law would have stifled freedom of expression by telling people they can’t exhibit kindness by helping a stranger possibly in need of real assistance.

In addition, the government already has too many controls in place to dictate how we spend our money and on what products. Informing residents they will actually face criminal prosecution for choosing to aid the unfortunate is not only draconian, it violates civil liberties.

While the panhandling problem in San Antonio needs to be solved, dictating how and when people can spend their money is not the answer.

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

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NOV. 15 - DEC. 14, 2014

HAPPENING LOCAL

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

OUR GUIDE TO YOUR MONTH

HAPPENING KEY

FITNESS

INTERNATIONAL PAGEANT Applications are being accepted for competing in the Texas International Pageant, which has competitions for Mrs., Miss and Miss Teen Texas International. San Antonio winners will be selected and will take part in the state competition March 13-15 at the Granville Arts Center in Garland.

The international pageant is in Florida in July. For more information, and to find application forms, go to http://www. mrstexasinternational.com, http://www. misstexasinternational.com and http:// www.missteentexasinternational.com.

ONGOING

NOV 6

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

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REVISITING THE VOELCKER DAIRY FARM Much of the Voelcker family’s dairy farm – which has become Phil Hardberger Park – is intact, and the Southwest Dairy Farmers group will use the site to demonstrate how milk gets from cows to consumers. Its mobile classroom will be at the homestead to present a kid-friendly program from 10 a.m. to noon.

To reach it, turn off of Blanco Road onto Longfield Road just north of the park’s eastern entrance. Then turn left on Old Blanco Road and follow it all the way to Voelcker Lane.

Turn right, and follow Voelcker Lane to the Greenway trailhead parking lot. Enter the homestead at the gate by the white house. The event is free but donations are appreciated.

NOV 22

ART

TALK

OUTDOOR

MUSIC

FOOD

NISD Trustees of the Northside Independent School District meet at 7 p.m. in the board room, 5900 Evers Road. Another meeting — same time, same place — is Dec. 9.

NOV 11

FITNESS IN THE PARK The city’s Parks & Recreation Department offers its Boot Camp classes at 8:30 a.m. both Saturdays in front of the playground near the eastern entrance to Phil Hardberger Park, 13203 Blanco Road.

As with all Fitness in the Park programs, there’s no cost and no registration.

NOV 15-22

TURKEY CRAFTS AND MORE! Kids of all ages are welcome to make their own Thanksgiving keepsake during a Come & Go Crafts session at Cody Branch Library. It runs from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. in the Meeting Room at the library, 11441 Vance-Jackson Road.

NOV 20

HATS OFF! THE MAIN EVENT The Barshop Jewish Community Center’s fundraiser will feature kosher food from select restaurants; D.J. Polo as well as live music

by The Merchants of Jazz; a wide range of items to bid on in a silent auction; plus casino games. The party begins at 7 p.m.; tickets, which start at $50, are available at www.jccsanantonio.org/mainevent.

NOV 22

NOV 24

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

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.

DEC 10

HOLIDAY 5K RUN/WALK ‘14 is 8 a.m. at The Commons, Honeysuckle Lane and Lemonwood Drive in Castle Hills.

Sponsored by Fiesta Castle Hills, the first 100 participants receive a free T-shirt and Santa hat. The early entry fee per runner is $20 and $25 the day of the event. There are first-place awards for male and female participants, and water, juice and fresh fruit will be available. To learn more about the route or to download an application, visit fiestacastlehills.texas@gmail.com. For additional questions, email Rick Huizar at fiestacastlehills.texas@gmail.com.

DEC 13

“YES, VIRGINIA” The Rawlinson Middle School fine-arts students will perform a musical production inspired by the

DEC 18

HAPPENING continues on pg. 07

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We have relocated to our new “State of the Art” showroom in the Alon Towne Centre located at 10003 NW Military, Suite 1120, San Antonio, TX. Kiva Kitchen & Bath has been doing business in the San Antonio area for over 60 years. Here at Kiva, we set ourselves apart with our knowledgeable staff and excellent customer service. Kiva caters to every type of market and supplies Appliances, Outdoor Kitchens, Plumbing Fixtures, Cabinets, Countertops and Hardware.

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Antonio Zoo – to build a conservation lab for the beloved Puerto Rican tree frog known as the coqui. Tickets cost $15 at the door; in advance they’re $12 and can be purchased at Latin/international food stores.

Children younger than 12 get in for $5.

HAPPENING continues from pg. 06 classic Christmas letter at 6:30 p.m. in the auditorium, 14100 Vance Jackson Road.

Tickets are $5. For more, call 397-4400.

ELSEWHERE IN SAN ANTONIO

VETERAN ART SHOW The Institute of Texan Cultures is presenting the fifth annual Distinguished Artist Veteran Art Show, featuring works by more than a dozen men and women from Texas who have served the country. The paintings, sculptures, drawings and jewelry deal with ideas and issues drawn from their experiences and struggles.

The exhibit is open during regular hours at the Institute, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. MondaySaturday and noon-5 p.m. on Sunday.

Admission prices range from $6 to $8. The Institute is at 801 E. Cesar Chavez Blvd.

40 Conquering Cancer Years of

FOURTH ANNUAL HOLIDAY UNWRAPPING The Quarry Farmers & Ranchers Market is kicking off the holiday season from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Alamo Quarry Market with an array of locally produced edible and nonedible gift ideas, holiday menu inspirations and tasty traditions that can be enjoyed a few weeks before Thanksgiving, through Hanukkah, Christmas and New Year’s Day. Bring your dog and have a watercolor created by Lesta Frank, and find gift items

by Alison Shockner. Music is by Josh Klaus.

The market is held every Sunday in the parking lot near Whole Foods Market off U.S. 281 and Jones Maltsberger Road. Hours are 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more, visit www. quarryfarmersmarket.com or call 722-5077.

NOV 16

THROUGH JAN 4

14TH FESTIVAL DE PUERTO RICO San Antonio’s Puerto Rican Heritage Society will hold its festival at San Antonio Shrine Auditorium, 901 N. Loop 1604 W., from noon to 7 p.m. Expect plenty of Caribbean food, plus music, dancing, art and craft items for sale, and raffles. The event is raising money for Proyecto Coqui, which has a goal – in partnership with the San

NOV 1-2

“JINGLE BELLS, BATMAN SMELLS” Kid fave Junie B. Jones is back at Magik Theatre, this time grappling with the problem of a

NOV 21 - DEC 27

HAPPENING continues on pg. 08

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NOV. 15 - DEC. 14, 2014

HAPPENING continues from pg. 07 Christmas gift for someone she doesn’t like.

There will be morning performances on weekdays and evening and afternoon shows Friday and Saturday. Individual tickets are $10. To buy them, and to find specific times – which are somewhat irregular because of holidays – go to www.magiktheatre. org. Magik Theatre is at 420 S. Alamo St. MUSTACHE COMPETITION The Alamo Beard Club will hold a fundraising competition, Mustachicuffs, to benefit the San Antonio Food Bank. Categories include natural, styled and ugliest; the entry fee is $10.

The face-off starts at 7 p.m. at The Hangar, 8203 Broadway. To enter, go to alamobeardclub.com/mustachicuffs. html to find a registration link.

NOV 22

INTERNATIONAL PEACE MARKET More than 100 local and international artists and artisans will offer items for sale as the Mercado de Paz marks 25 years of “community-centered alternative shopping.”

Wares include home-décor items, clothing, jewelry, fine art and textiles. There will be music, too, and food will be available

NOV 28-29

The best gift is the best massage.

for purchase. The market runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. both days at Esperanza Peace and Justice Center, 922 San Pedro Ave. There’s no admission charge.

GRAND WESTERN SHINDIG Mission Road Ministries’ annual shindig raises funds to serve its clients with intellectual disabilities.

The evening includes food, live music for dancing, a raffle and silent, live and country store auctions. For those 21 and older, Club Shindig will provide a party-within-a-party.

Individual Shindig tickets are $150; Club Shindig tickets are $75. They’re available at missionroadministries.org – under What’s Happening, click on Shindig and find the link. The party runs from 6 to 10:30 p.m. at Cowboys Dancehall, 3030 N.E. Loop 410.

DEC 2

CHRISTMAS FAIRE IN THE MANSION Luncheon and shopping, and plenty of Christmas spirit, are available from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day in this annual fundraiser presented by the Woman’s Club of San Antonio. For tickets, which are $35, call 732-4811. Parking is available. The Woman’s Club is at 1717 San Pedro Ave.

DEC 2-5

HAPPENING continues on pg. 09

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SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM HAPPENING continues from pg. 08 TAMALES! HOLIDAY FESTIVAL DEC A slew of tamale vendors 6 will converge again on the Pearl. There also will be a craft area for kids and free musical entertainment.

Admission is free, and food and drink prices will range from $1 to $5. The event runs from noon to 6 p.m. at the complex, 303 Pearl Parkway between Broadway and the San Antonio River.

ADVENT MUSIC FESTIVAL CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL Christmas selections, including “Light Eternal” by John Michael Talbot, will be presented at the 8:30 and 11 a.m. services at San Pedro Presbyterian Church, 14900 San Pedro Ave. The music will be performed by orchestra, chorus and children’s choir, and everyone is welcome to attend. Child care will be available.

DEC 7

NUTCRACKER SWEETS A range of delicious holiday food – savory as well as sweet – will be yours for the tasting at this annual fundraiser, being held this year at the new Tobin Center for the Performing Arts. Nearly 20 food purveyors will be

DEC 8

featured, along with live music and Ballet San Antonio dancers; the event runs from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. The event benefits Family Violence and Prevention Services, the umbrella organization of the Battered Women and Children’s Shelter. Tickets cost $50 for adults and $25 for teens 13 to 17 years old; children 12 and younger get in free. Buy tickets online at NutcrackerSweets.org, or call Brooke Bell at 930-3669. The Tobin Center is at 100 Auditorium Circle.

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34 8 1 1. UNLEASHED BY PETCO, 8109 Callaghan Road, has opened a new store in San Antonio in the Grandview Shopping Center. It is a community-oriented pet specialty retailer offering natural nutrition and dog- and cat-supply essentials. There also is an “easy, self-serve dog wash,” store officials said. Hours are 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday. For more, call 366-3442 or visit http://unleashedby. petco.com/. (See story on page 29) 2. TRADER JOE’S, 403 N. Loop 1604 West, is the anchor store at the new Sonterra Village shopping center. Opened in mid-October, the 12,500-square-foot location is the second in San Antonio. The retail grocery outlet featuring select food items started in the 1950s as a chain of convenience stores before going upscale, adding cedar planks and putting employees in Hawaiian shirts. Joe’s now trades in 38 states.

Hours are 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. For more, call 545-3123 or visit http://www. traderjoes.com/. (See story on page 30)

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N.W. Military Highway, Suite 131 in Castle Hills, was formerly known as Malinalli Sweet Swirls featuring frozen yogurt and bakery items, but it now offers all-day breakfast — omelets, waffles, crepes — and lunch, including sandwiches and salads, as well as baked goods. Hours are 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Tuesday through Saturday and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. For more, call 209-3463 or visit http://malinalli.us/. (See story on page 31)

4. MUNCHIES, SHAKES, SNACKS & MORE, 2211 N.W. Military Highway, Suite

111A in Castle Hills, has just moved to this new address, but still offers traditional favorites from Mexico and San Antonio such as corn in a cup, aguas frescas and shaved ice. Hours are 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Tuesday through Saturday, noon to 9 p.m.

Sunday and closed Monday. For more, call 636-0597 or visit munchiesnacksa. com. (See story on page 32)

5. MCALISTER’S DELI, 16820 N.W. Military Highway in Shavano Park, opened this new location Oct. 13 featuring The Shavano Park Sandwich, which is loaded with smoked turkey, Swiss cheese, lettuce, tomato, light mayonnaise and orange-cranberry sauce and served on white bread. During its first month of operation, the restaurant will donate all tips to Catholic Charities of San Antonio. The restaurant, the fourth one in San Antonio, is owned by the Southwest Deli franchise group. Hours are 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

For more, call 424-0601 or visit https://www. facebook.com/McAlistersShavanoPark.

6. TEXAS BEST AUTO SALON, 15271 Huebner Road, was formerly known as Splish Splash Auto Salon and specializes in all vehicles, from luxury high-end to the ordinary. It offers full-service washing, hand washing, waxing, leather LOWDOWN continues on pg. 11

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SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM LOWDOWN continues from pg. 10

IN OTHER NEWS

AS PART OF HIS CONTINUED EFFORTS TO INCREASE BROADBAND ACCESS FOR SAN ANTONIO RESIDENTS, District 8 Councilman Ron Nirenberg recently took part in the launch of Next Century Cities, a bipartisan, city-to-city initiative dedicated to ensuring the availability of next-generation broadband Internet for all communities, according to a city news release. Nirenberg, who was appointed in June to the Federal Communications Commission’s Intergovernmental Advisory Committee, was in Santa Monica, California, for the event. The councilman on June 6 filed a City Council request asking staff to develop a comprehensive strategy to accelerate the deployment of information technology infrastructure citywide. He is seeking recommendations to “bridge the digital divide, ensure that private providers have the tools necessary to provide sufficient mobile data capacity, and define the role and management of a municipally operated fiber network,” according to officials.

conditioning, carpet shampoo and many other services. Fleet discounts are available, as well as a $15 manager special. Hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday for full service, and the automatic car wash is open 24 hours a day all week. For more, call 416-7840.

7. ALON FAMILY HEALTH, 11503 N.W. Military Highway, Suite 111, opened just a couple of months ago and specializes in family medicine. Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday and Tuesday, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Wednesday and 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Thursday and Friday. For more, call 5342566 or visit www.alonfamilyhealth.com.

8. TEAM SHARK BJJ, 2211 N.W. Military Highway, Suite 126 in Castle Hills, offers Brazilian jiu-jitsu for children, women, beginners and experienced students, as well as no-gi submission grappling and mixed martial arts. Trainers said Brazilian jui-jitsu has many benefits for practitioners, including improved cardio and overall health, weight loss, reduced stress, increased confidence and the development of respect, especially in children. Morning and evening classes are available. For more, call 331-8042 or visit http://www.teamsharkbjj.com.​

DISTRICT 8 CITY COUNCILMAN RON NIRENBERG joined other community leaders Oct. 18 to address high school students from San Antonio and Bexar County attending

LOWDOWN continues on pg. 12

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LOWDOWN continues from pg. 11 the Voice of the Youth Leadership Training 2014. Coordinated by the P16Plus Council of Greater Bexar County, the training offered students ways to effectively communicate with their peers, teachers and community on issues that have an impact on their future.

THE PTA AT HOBBY MIDDLE SCHOOL has been nationally recognized as among the 2014-16 National PTA Schools of Excellence, and one of only four in San Antonio to receive the distinction, officials said. The awards — which went to 170 schools — are presented by the program to parent-teacher groups for “building strong family-school partnerships,” according to a Northside Independent School District newsletter.

THE SEVENTH- AND EIGHTH-GRADE VOLLEYBALL TEAMS at Hobby Middle School in October donned pink headbands to recognize teachers and family who have fought breast cancer. October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

GERARDO MENDEZ, a Nimitz Middle School Advanced Via Individual Determination teacher, recently took a group of Peer Assistance Leadership

students to a inaugural Education Fair sponsored by Univision and the University of Texas at San Antonio at the Loop 1604 campus. The students met with UTSA President Ricardo Romo and Univision San Antonio officials.

THE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF THE AMERICAS on Oct. 1 welcomed administrators from 21 schools to a meeting of the Asia Society’s International Studies Schools Network. The officials hailed from new ISSN schools in California, Colorado, Ohio, Texas and Washington. They visited classrooms, talked to students and teachers, and consulted with ISA’s administrators.

THE CYBERPATRIOT TEAM AT CHURCHILL HIGH SCHOOL took part Oct. 25 in the National Youth Cyber Defense Competition held at Cisco Headquarters.

The contest put teams of high school and middle school students in the role of “newly hired IT professionals tasked with managing the network of a small company,” according to a North East Independent School District release.

During the competition, teams worked with a set of virtual images representing operating systems and had to detect cyber

LOWDOWN continues on pg. 13

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SHAVANO continues from pg. 01

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MORE THAN 300 PARENTS, STUDENTS, FACULTY AND COMMUNITY MEMBERS attended the annual fall fair Oct. 10 at Larkspur Elementary School, officials said. “The Larkspur Fall Festival is an opportunity for the community to come together to enjoy music, food and games,” said Principal Susan Del Toro in an online news release.

THE SILVER AND BLACK GIVE BACK TEAM UP CHALLENGE has awarded $2,500 to Colonial Hills Elementary School and the International School of the Americas to start service projects to help the community, officials announced.

THE TEXAS MUNICIPAL LEAGUE HAS RECOGNIZED SHAVANO PARK CITY SECRETARY ZINA TEDFORD AND MAYOR PRO TEM MICHELLE BUNTING ROSS as Leadership Fellows, according to a city newsletter. The recipients, who included elected, appointed and other city officials from across the state, completed a threecourse, six-day program held over three months to enhance leadership skills.

by BAIN SERNA

S

HAVANO PARK — The City Council has approved new definitions to strengthen an ordinance that already limits property owners from turning a home into a residential hotel with paying guests.

The amended ordinance relating to the use of single-family residences for long-term and short-term rentals was unanimously passed by the council Oct. 27.

“We have not changed the authorized use of our ordinances because we contend that our ordinances say that you can only use your house for (a) single-family residence,” City Manager Bill Hill said before the meeting.

“What we did was clarify the definition of long-term and short-term leases.”

The change to the ordinance was prompted by an unfolding case in which the city claims a homeowner is using his residence at 102 Turkey Creek St. as a short-term rental property, or

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“hotel,” for vacationers and tourists.

In a letter to the city, the homeowner has said no wrongdoing is taking place.

Neighbors and city officials contend the practice violates a long-established zoning ordinance pertaining to single-family homes in the city.

The council’s amendment to the Code of Ordinances chapter 36, section 36-1, which can be found on the city’s website, is meant to give clearer definition to the long established ordinance.

According to the language, it is “intended to restrict use of residential structures within these districts to long-term and permanent residential dwelling purposes ...They were never intended to allow short-term, hotel/motel-like uses, which are classified as commercial uses under the ordinance because the nature and character of this use … is not as a residence of the owner, but as a means whereby the owner (receives) monetary gain or revenue...”

The amendment defines a long-term rental as a renter leasing property for

90 consecutive days or more and pays the owner a “periodic monthly based” rent to reside in the rented home.

The amendment defines a short-term rental as the renter leasing property for a period of less than 90 days, whereby the short-term rental of property is considered a commercial/business use of that property.

Hill said short-term leases are not authorized by the city. The change in wording creates a better definition to make clear the typical uses for single-family homes, he added.

“All we are simply doing is defining our current uses because our current use of a single-family home residence is well-established and well-known, and it is common practice that a single-family residence means that it is one family that lives in a house,” the city manager said. “We are not changing any authorized use; all we are doing is clarifying the definition.”

In the meantime, the case involving the home on Turkey Creek is set for 9 a.m.

Dec. 12 in Municipal Court, officials said.

WHAT WE DID WAS CLARIFY THE DEFINITION OF LONG-TERM AND SHORT-TERM LEASES. BILL HILL, SHAVANO PARK CITY MANAGER

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SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM CASTLE HILLS continues from pg. 01

Mayor says city attorney can still strike certain words

by LUCILLE SIMS THOMAS

C

ASTLE HILLS — In what some are hailing as a victory for free speech, City Council members are no longer required to have the city attorney review their columns before publication in a municipal newsletter.

The ordinance, passed in August 2012, was rescinded in September, said Councilman Douglas Gregory. He led the effort to overturn the law, which he said violated free-speech rights.

According to critics, the measure forced council members to walk a fine line between freely speaking their minds while not getting the city in legal trouble because of articles in the monthly publication.

“We’re back to where we are all adults again,” Gregory said. “We can write our columns and we can submit (them) to

the city attorney for help and suggestions if we so desire. And life will go on.”

Mayor Tim Howell said he still thinks it is a good idea to have the city attorney look over what council members write for accuracy and to protect the city.

“The new repeal only changes the power of the attorney to strike actual words,” Howell said. “The spirit of the repeal was to have the council feel they were not being censored. That was not the original intention of the original ordinance, but the new change now allows council to feel better about what they do say. The attorney only protects us as a city and checks accuracy.”

According to Gregory, a former councilman returned by voters to City Hall during the May 10 elections, the now-repealed ordinance was pushed by former Mayor Bruce Smiley-Kaliff.

Gregory claimed Smiley-Kaliff didn’t like what was written about him at one point.

“I tried to put in one of my columns, simply a bill of rights, and he (former mayor) emailed the city attorney and said, ‘Oh no — this can’t be done; this cannot be allowed.’ So I wasn’t able to print the bill of rights in my column. That really chafed me since I believe very strongly in free speech and expression,” Gregory said.

Smiley-Kaliff, however, said Gregory’s account differs from what he remembers.

Former Castle Hills Mayor Bruce Smiley-Kaliff said a controversial ordinance that required the city attorney to review City Council members' columns before publication in a newsletter initially met with approval from city leaders. It has since been rescinded. File photo

“Contrary to the councilman’s representation, the mayor does not put ordinances in place – that is done by the council,” Smiley-Kaliff said.

According to Smiley-Kaliff, council members held a discussion in June 2012 and decided it was best to run articles through the city attorney before printing them.

Gregory said that after he brought the issue back to the council a couple of months ago, his colleagues agreed the ordinance was unnecessary and unanimously agreed to its repeal.

Even without the ordinance in place, Gregory said he still plans to use the city attorney’s services.

“Many times – and I still do it today – I’ll submit something to the city attorney just to get his opinion; to see if it is structured right; if it’s OK, legally speaking,” Gregory said.

Council members are not required to write articles for the newsletter but have the option to do so and can choose their own topics, officials said.

During the past few months, Castle Hills has seen its share of controversies.

In September, City Secretary Janice Willman stepped down after a noconfidence vote by the council.

Willman’s exit was just the latest in a string of departures at City Hall, starting with Smiley-Kaliff ’s resignation in June, followed not long after by City Manager Rita Hoyl, who left after being told by some council members she had four months to prove her worth.

Councilwoman Stacia Spridgen also resigned, citing the same reasons SmileyKaliff did — concerns over the direction the city was taking after the May elections.

Those elections saw Gregory return to the council as well as political ally Lesley Wenger, wife of former Mayor Bob Anderson.

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NOV. 15 - DEC. 14, 2014

Shop bounces back from burglary, police build case

YOU GET VERY UPSET WHEN SOMETHING LIKE THAT HAPPENS TO YOU. YOU JUST DON’T UNDERSTAND IT AND YOU CAN’T BELIEVE IT.

by BAIN SERNA

C

ASTLE HILLS — The owners of a new store showcasing fine Italian leather goods are moving ahead after burglars targeted their business, while police say they continue to develop strong leads in the case.

The break-in unfolded shortly before 2 a.m. Sept. 25 when masked thieves struck Guidi Italian Handbags & Accessories, 2177 N.W. Military Highway, and made off with 19 rare and unique designer purses, six matching wallets and five scarves.

The burglars netted about $15,000 worth of merchandise, according to officials. Damage, including a broken window, is estimated at $1,000.

An arrest in an unrelated case may yield clues in the burglary, investigators said.

“The investigation is still active and

MARIA DEROSA, GUIDI ITALIAN HANDBAGS & ACCESSORIES OWNER

we have recovered three of the purses,” said Police Chief Wayne Davis. “We have apprehended an individual on an unrelated charge. We’re confident of two suspects and we believe there was a third as the getaway driver, but that has yet to be determined.”

According to Davis, the burglary was very swift, lasting only seconds, because the stolen items were at the front of the store in a window display and were quickly snatched after the intrusion.

“It looks like they used a large flashlight or some kind of prying device to smash through the front glass window and entered that way,” Davis said. “They were in the store for only about 15 to 20 seconds.”

Because of an alarm, officers made it to the business in less than a minute, Davis said.

Store owners Enzio and Maria DeRosa said they remain upset about what happened, but are thankful the crime occurred at night when no one was at the store and no employees were harmed.

“I had just redecorated the whole window front the day before and I had just put the purses out with matching wallets and scarves so that people can get a better idea of them,” Maria DeRosa said. “You get very upset when something like that happens to you. You just don’t understand it and you can’t believe it.”

The DeRosas have praised the efforts

of the Police Department in working to bring the thieves to justice. The DeRosas have also taken preventive measures by installing metal bars inside the windows of their upscale store.

Maria DeRosa said the rarity of the stolen items has actually helped police.

The purloined purses are an exclusive Piero Guidi designer brand only sold in two stores in the United States, one in New York and the other being the DeRosa’s store in Castle Hills.

“We’re the only other U.S. store to have these purses,” DeRosa said. “Anyone that was trying to sell the purses, either at pawn shops or flea markets or wherever, they are going to get caught because no one has these purses but us. That‘s where the detectives had help in cracking the case because the items stolen are very unique and we‘re the only store that sells them.”

There have been 11 burglaries of businesses in Castle Hills this year, said Davis, who added the number is relatively low in comparison to other cities.

“We do our best to pay attention to our business centers in the late hours,” Davis said. “It’s not unheard of to have a burglary in a strip center of a local business, but they’re pretty rare here.”

Anyone with information is asked to call police at 342-2341.

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Are you tired of being sick and tired?

MISS LATINA continues from pg. 01

Even when your doctors tell you your test are normal? Is weight gain a food comsuption problem or a hormone and thyroid imbalance?

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by COLLETTE ORQUIZ

C

ASTLE HILLS — Daniella Reneé Espinoza — a dancer, model and Antonian College Preparatory High School 2014 graduate — stole the hearts of the judges, and won the title at the inaugural Miss Latina San Antonio pageant, where young women compete for scholarship money.

“It’s a great honor having represented the organization as the first Miss Latina. It’s an amazing opportunity,” Espinoza said.

The pageant took place Aug. 9 at the Guadalupe Theater where 15 contenders vied for either the Miss Latina San Antonio title or Miss Latina San Antonio Teen.

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and Alyssa Salina was named Teen.

Though Espinoza has spent years modeling and walking down runways, this was her first beauty pageant.

Miss Latina San Antonio is a community-based organization, and Espinoza is looking forward to a year filled with community events, being a “classy role model” for girls, and motivating them to achieve their goals, especially in education.

Similar to the Miss America Pageant, contestants for Miss Latina San Antonio perform by showcasing a talent, as well as model swimsuits and evening gowns.

However, 40 percent of the judging is based on an interview conducted two days prior to the big event.

“I think there are a lot of stereotypes on pageants,” Espinoza said. “(Some) think that pageant girls aren’t very educated and they’re not involved, and that’s what I really like about the organization that I’m representing … the interview was counted at a high percentage.”

Espinoza scored 49.5 out of 50 for the interview, giving her an edge over her rivals.

Her father, Mark Espinoza, said she swept the competition in multiple categories.

“I feel like Daniella won the pageant because she was the whole package — very intelligent, loved giving back to her community, had an amazing talent and is, of course, a beauty,” said Krystal Diaz, the founder and executive director of Miss Latina San Antonio.

Daniella Espinoza also won best swimsuit and best talent, performing a classic flamenco dance called Sevillanas, where she used castanets.

The prize for winning the competition is a $500 scholarship for the Miss and the Teen categories The Miss Latina San Antonio organization promotes health, fitness and inner beauty among women of Latin ethnic groups, Diaz said. At the age of 22, she is the owner and artist director of Danzavida De San Antonio Dance Company and also works for a tax-business law office.

The organization’s mission is to produce positive role models and develop women with self-confidence, self-worth and morals, while expressing their opinions, talents and intelligence, organizers said.

“I feel that it is extremely important to empower Latinas,” Diaz said. “We are often stereotyped and I think this generation of Latinas should have the motivation and encouragement to be anything they want in life.”

The organization wants to provide academic and social support for youths and publicly recognize women who have obtained personal, professional and community achievements.

The criteria for competing is simple. For the Miss competition, contestants must be

NOVEMBER 2014

I FEEL THAT IT IS EXTREMELY IMPORTANT TO EMPOWER LATINAS. KRYSTAL DIAZ, MISS LATINA SAN ANTONIO FOUNDER AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

18 to 24 years old, of Latin descent, a United States citizen and reside in the San Antonio area. Other rules include being enrolled in school, healthy, have no tattoos, never been married or have a child, meet character criteria set by the organization, and be able to meet the time commitment and job responsibility.

“I created the organization because I have a love for pageantry and what they represent,” Diaz said. “I wanted to establish something special just for the Hispanic community, to give them the opportunity to express their intelligence, poise, talents and dreams.”

Diaz is a former Miss San Antonio, and she credits the organization for being the source behind her academic excellence and community achievements.

Behind every move the new Miss Latina San Antonio makes are two loving and proud parents, mother Sylvia Espinoza and her father.

“We were ecstatic the night that it happened,” Mark Espinoza said.

“We’re her number one fans,” added Sylvia Espinoza.

Daniella Espinoza said her family has been supportive of all her endeavors, including her decision to model at the age of 11, taking dance lessons since she was 5, and attending Northwest Vista College this fall. She’s planning on getting her associate’s degree in biology and then transferring to the University of the Incarnate Word.

In addition to school, Espinoza starts recruiting this month for the next competition. She also said she has been asked to mentor girls for next year and is looking forward to showing them what it takes to win.

Espinoza will spend her next year meeting and greeting officials and residents in various settings, as well as representing the organization in the Fiesta Flambeau parade.

She wants to spread a message to young Latinas during her reign: “Always believe that anything is possible, never give up on your dreams, and always stay dedicated no matter what.”

For more on the pageant, visit www. misslatinasaonline.com or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/misslatinasa2014.

Pets Home Alone for the Holidays?

Planning a trip for the holidays? Don’t forget to make arrangement for your pets in advance. When it comes to pet care, there are a variety of options and it’s important to choose what works best for you, your budget and your lifestyle. Here are some pet care options to consider: Asking for help from Friends and Family · Pros: Usually inexpensive. Great for very low maintenance pets (like fish). · Cons: Usually there is no guarantee on scheduling or level of care and service.

Hiring a Professional Pet Sitter · Pros: Pets get to stay home and keep their usual routine (less stress, less illness). No need to pick up/drop off your pets. Passionate, dedicated pet care professionals that offer a high quality of customer service and professionalism, flexible scheduling, variety of services, policies and procedures in place to handle emergencies, background checks, insured, bonded, references provided, pet CPR certified. · Cons: Prices and availability vary (book early!).

Hiring a Part-Time Pet Sitter · Pros: Pets get to stay home. Typically these are college kids or retired individuals on websites like “Care.com” looking to earn some extra money.

They are often inexpensive and flexible with scheduling. · Cons: Not insured, ability to handle emergencies will vary, often no background check. Reliability, knowledge, experience & professionalism will vary.

Going to Doggy Day Care · Pros: Daily supervised play time with other dogs. Some offer webcams.

Great for hyper-active dogs. · Cons: Dogs must pass a temperament exam. Prices vary. Limited pick up/drop off times. Potential for illnesses, such as Kennel Cough or Giardia.

Potential for kennel-related stress.

Puppies under 4 months, and elderly dogs are not a good fit.

Going to a Boarding Facility or Veterinarian: · Pros: Pets are surrounded by pet care professionals. Some offer webcams.

Great for Special Needs pets that need medical attention, or pets that don’t need lots of exercise (like cats). · Cons: Prices vary. Very limited playtime outside kennel. Limited pick up/ drop off times. Potential for illnesses, such as Kennel Cough. Potential for kennel-related stress.

Interested in hiring a Professional Pet Sitter? Call FairyTails at (210) 620-1867 or email zindy@fairytails.com.

19 HOBBY continues from pg. 01

Young scientists gearing up for Mission 7 to space

by MIRANDA KOERNER

F

our Hobby Middle School students are vowing not to give up after an experiment they designed for the International Space Station disintegrated in a fireball when an unmanned rocket carrying the package exploded.

Their project, Crystal Tetras, was destroyed about 5:30 p.m. Oct. 28 when an Antares supply rocket launched by NASA from Wallops Island, Virginia, blew up. The experiment, which would have examined the effects of space on crystals, was part of the Mission 6 Student Spaceflight Experiments Program.

The launch had been scrubbed the day before because a sailboat entered the restricted coastal area, the space agency said. NASA said more than 2 tons of supplies and other materials were lost.

The explosion is under investigation.

“We were watching the launch together in my classroom when the explosion occurred,” teacher and sponsor Serena Connally said. “The kids were at first in shock and then, being the troupers they are, they were making plans to try again. I was speechless.”

For the students, the rocket's destruction almost didn’t seem real.

“At first I didn’t understand what had happened,” said Jacob Rubio, one of the students on the project.

“When I realized it blew up, I thought, ‘Well, we will just do it again’.”

The program, designed by the National Center for Earth and Space Education in partnership with NanoRacks Technologies, looked at dozens of proposals from school districts across the nation, including 24 from the Northside Independent School District.

The Hobby team’s winning project — one of three selected — was developed

by Madelyn Hickman, Anthony Holmes, Jacob and Kalista Ybarra.

Their sponsors include teachers Ronica Korn, Michael Dawson and Connally.

Jacob and Madelyn were fifth graders at Howsman Elmentary School last year when they started the project, and they are now sixth graders. Anthony and Kalista are now in the seventh grade.

Their teachers and project co-directors had been equally enthusiastic about the

Have a problem? Call 210-213-9446

HOBBY continues on pg. 20 Local_7.3x11.5_Sept2014.indd 1

8/12/2014 4:07:13 PM

20

NOV. 15 - DEC. 14, 2014

HOBBY continues from pg. 19 project’s selection as an experiment in Earth orbit. However, the NISD students are not giving up on the next mission.

“We are thrilled that the students won,” said Amanda Ewenson, co-director of the Mission 7 program, which is the next project. “Visiting many of the (NISD) campuses last spring, I saw how much effort students put into their proposals. It was clear that even students who were not on the flight-selected team learned from this experience — not only about science, but about hard work, curiosity and perseverance.”

Ewenson originally brought the Mission 6 project idea to the district after seeing it featured on Facebook.

The students partnered with researchers from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio and Southwest Research Institute to work on their proposals, meeting at least once a week and often on weekends and holidays.

She estimated students spent at least 40 hours on some proposals, which took three months to complete. The young space scientists also worked with their teacher-sponsors to fine-tune their ideas.

The name Crystal Tetras comes from a play on words involving

THIS IS THE ONLY TIME I’VE SHOWED EVERYONE THAT I CAN DO EVERYTHING I PUT MY MIND TO. I WAS SURPRISED BY THE EXPLOSION AND THEN SAD, BUT WE WILL REDO THE EXPERIMENT AND SEND IT AGAIN. KALISTA YBARRA CRYSTAL TETRAS STUDENT TEAM MEMBER

one of the ingredients, sodium tetraborate, also known as borax.

“The students worked hard on researching many topics, and performed many experiments, before they selected the final project,” Dawson said. “The students started the project with many ideas … they were inspired by topics discussed in the classroom, books, Internet and science specials. I have seen them grow so much in their hunger for knowledge.”

“The students were so excited to be chosen,” Korn added. “We were all jumping up and down with excitement when we heard that we were chosen as a top three finalist. (The teachers) were told that we had been chosen, and decided to wait and let the

children find out at the big announcement with all of the other Northside teams.

When they announced our kiddos as the ‘winners’ of the chosen team, they were shocked! They couldn’t believe that their project was going to outer space.”

Connally, the Hobby science coordinator, is as interested in space as her students. She and the other teachers helped guide the students toward the work with crystals.

A total of 18 student experiments were destined for the space station as part of the Mission 6 project.

“I have always been fascinated with the space program, so when the survey asking who would be interested in a space experiment program came

along, I had to respond,” Connally said.

“As a group, we brainstormed many simple experiment ideas that would fit in the small tube that would be going to space. (One) of the topics the kids came up with was, ‘Will crystals grow differently in microgravity?’ After we brainstormed, we ran a few experiments in the classroom on these topics and then did some research for background information and possible application. The students then planned their experiment and we teachers typed it up for them.”

Jacob at first wasn’t thrilled about the name Crystal Tetras for the project.

“I wanted it to be ‘Project X’ because it sounded cool,” he said.

With Crystal Tetras now destroyed in the explosion, the team of students is gearing up to participate in Mission 7.

“The kids are understandably disappointed, but they are ready to try again,” Connally said.

Kalista said their previous success only encourages them to make another attempt.

“This is the only time I’ve showed everyone that I can do everything I put my mind to,” Kalista said. “I was surprised by the explosion and then sad, but we will redo the experiment and send it again.

You may fail a couple times, but you have to keep going until you get it right.”

21

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Explorers based at the San Antonio Police Department's North Substation including Adam Moya (left) make a felony 'arrest' while Paul Zamora (center) and Jason Pena (right) keep their weapons trained on another person playing a suspect. Photo by Rudy B. Ornelas

POLICE continues from pg. 01

Training program open to males and females, 14-21

by BAIN SERNA

A

Scout program known as the Explorers is attracting young men and women to its ranks at the North Substation, producing future law enforcement officers and even military personnel, sponsors said.

The San Antonio Police Department welcomed Explorers in 1976, and today all six substations have posts, including the North Substation at 13030 Jones Maltsberger Road.

The coed program, created by the Boy Scouts of America, allows teens and young adults 14 to 21 to experience SAPD training and tactics.

“I make it a point to have my former Explorers come back to the meetings and share their career field choices with the younger Explorers,” said Officer Dave McDonald, the adviser for the North Substation Explorers the last five years. “I have SAPD officers as well as several military personnel who were once in my Explorer post.”

McDonald takes pride in watching the Explorers develop and hone their skills, then enter a career field — whether it’s police work or something else — with confidence.

“The Exploring program allows them to see firsthand what police work is all about,” McDonald said. “By exploring the career early, they can make an informed decision whether

to enter that line of work. If they do decide to apply with SAPD, they have a very good working knowledge of SAPD and can enter our academy with a high level of confidence.

If they decide police work is not for them, the skills they learned in the program can easily be carried over into other professions.”

Exploring units, known as “posts,” focus on a single career field that can range from aviation and engineering to police work, health and the legal profession. They are often sponsored by government agencies or businesses.

Explorer Deputy Chief Jason Pena, a participant in the North Substation program for more than four years, said he enjoys learning about various lawenforcement procedures and scenarios.

“This program is good for teenagers to decide if law enforcement is for them,” said Pena, an 18-year-old graduate of MacArthur High School and a sophomore at San Antonio College. “This program is a good test to see if they can see themselves doing this as a career. It’s made me a better person in ways I couldn’t even imagine. I’ve developed more self-confidence. I’ve become a better leader, especially amongst my peers.”

McDonald said both genders are welcome to apply. In addition to the age requirement, applicants must have successfully passed the eighth grade and remain in good standing with the legal system.

The Explorers is a year-round program. When Explorers turn 21, they have reached the minimum age to apply to become a police officer.

“The Explorers meet each week, usually on a Tuesday night, from 6 to 9 p.m.,” McDonald said. “The normal meeting

POLICE continues on pg. 22

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“The Happy Handyman is BACK!” Just one of my jobs is to keep testing new products against what I write about in my column. A metal polish was sent to me in a sample – a well known name- and I tried it on a brass clock that is on my desk. So on half of the clock I tested the new sample that I received and on the other half I used my old standard All Gleam. All Gleam still worked better than the other sample. It works quicker; it has fewer odors, and cleans with less effort. All Gleam will clean jewelry also. When we originally put in All Gleam it was because it has a companion product (we love those) that is a sealer. Say you have a front door handle and it is brass and you clean it, if you don’t protect it …you will be cleaning that front door handle real soon. So All Gleam makes a product called Superior Shield. It’s a clear spray that after you clean and polish, you spray with the Superior Shield. Now, you are talking protection. You won’t be cleaning that outdoor metal any time soon. Years ago, (and I mean more than 7) we did a TV show in San Antonio and we demonstrated the All Gleam and the Superior Shield on a water pitcher that my grandmother had given to me.

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Officer Dave McDonald (center) at the San Antonio Police Department's North Substation is going over what the new and seasoned members of the Explorer post will cover during their law-enforcement instruction. Photo by Rudy B. Ornelas

POLICE continues from pg. 21 begins with approximately 30 minutes of classroom instruction, followed by two hours of police scenarios. The remaining time is devoted to physical training.”

The training is not easy, police said.

“In addition to learning penal code statutes

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Accompanying a sworn peace officer on his or her rounds is a high point of the program, Pena said.

“I would have to say my favorite thing about the Explorer program would be the police ride-alongs because you get a firsthand view of what being a police officer is like,” Pena said.

He added the police ride-alongs allow him to ask officers about their job.

Pena wants to stay with the post until he turns 21, earn his college degree and pursue a 30-year career with SAPD. The Explorers continue to be a learning, growing and bonding experience for him and others, he added.

“I see myself making a mark in the (Police) Department,” Pena said. “I see the Explorers as a second family. Being in this program, you get really close to the people you work alongside with. They’re like your brothers and sisters.”

23

SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM BATS continues from pg. 01

Move heralded by city officials, conservationists

by EILEEN PACE

T

hough the Bracken Cave Preserve has sheltered bats for 10,000 years, a recent threat to their habitat may have been averted thanks to a deal brokered in part by District 8 Councilman Ron Nirenberg, officials said.

The cave in southwest Comal County is home to 15 to 20 million bats eight months each year, as well as some federally protected endangered species, and it sits atop the Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone — three reasons the area should be left undisturbed, conservationists said.

Now it seems like the habitat’s safety is assured. On Oct. 16, the City Council approved a $20.5 million deal – after Nirenberg helped bring the parities together – to purchase 1,521 acres surrounding the bat cave, protecting the area and part of

the aquifer from future development.

“Putting this deal together was no small task,” Nirenberg said. “We worked for more than a year in what sometimes felt like a hopeless situation, but it was the best way to achieve success. This was an interagency public-private partnership that I believe will serve as a model for other communities going forward.”

Backed by contributions from the city of San Antonio, Bexar County, the Edwards Aquifer Authority, the Army and private donors, the Austinbased Nature Conservancy and Bat Conservation International agreed to purchase the area, known as Crescent Hills, from Galo Properties.

Laura Huffman, Nature Conservancy’s executive director, called the deal a “5,000-acre conservation trifecta,” one that also promises to protect Cibolo Bluffs preserve, habitat for the endangered golden-cheeked warbler, and the environmentally sensitive aquifer.

The large-mouthed Bracken Bat Cave is the preferred maternity ward for millions of Mexican free-tailed bats returning from Mexico each spring. The bats circle out of the cave each night and fly south toward the agriculture fields for dinner. By morning,

BATS continues on pg. 24

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BATS continues from pg. 24 they have consumed mosquitoes and 100 tons of insects that feed on cotton, corn and other revenue-producing crops.

Conservationists became concerned last year after learning about Galo Properties’ planned residential development, where 3,500 homes would be constructed on acreage adjacent to the bat cave.

There were worries that so many houses on small lots would create too much impervious cover, which doesn’t allow moisture to seep back into the soil.

“Street lights, swimming pools and porch lights will attract the bats to make even more use of the property than they do now because they’re going to be attracted to all the insects those lights bring,” said Andy Walker, Bat Conservation International executive director.

Not only that, others believed runoff from the development would affect water quality, and worse – that thousands of sewer connections might result in sewage spills into the aquifer recharge zone.

“When I came out to the Bracken Bat Cave for the very first time, it was a spiritual experience,” Nirenberg said. “This is the glory of the Texas Hill Country, and if you’re not moved to action to keep

this resource as part of the Texas Hill Country – and for our enjoyment and the enjoyment of future generations – then you probably should check your pulse.”

For the next year, Nirenberg initiated activity behind the scenes that brought together community members, organizations and foundations to find the funding to purchase the property.

After council members voted unanimously to contribute money from the city’s Aquifer Protection Fund to help with the purchase price, Nirenberg heralded the final deal, crediting state and local leaders for their cooperation and contributions.

Nirenberg said the 5,000-acre conservation easement created by the multi-agency agreement will one day become a nature area for the public to enjoy. Councilman Mike Gallagher, whose council District 10 is nearest to the new preserve, said Comal County would continue to receive property taxes after the sale.

The nightly flight of millions of bats impressed District 9 Councilman Joe Krier, who visited the cave in September.

“If you believe in an omnipresent and ever-loving God – which I do – and you go to that bat cave, your faith is reaffirmed,” Krier said. “It is an absolutely magical experience.”

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SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM

Nascent church on the North Side is 'great opportunity' to reach people

by LAKENDRA LEWIS

W

hen the Rev. Josh de Koning came to the far North Side nearly a year ago to launch a church, he wasn’t sure what to expect.

The senior pastor and ex-Austinite has started Harvest Bible Chapel-San Antonio in the cafeteria of Vineyard Ranch Elementary School, 16818 Huebner Road.

“It’s a fantastic location,” said de Koning. “There’s visibility and accessibility. You can actually see the school as you go down (Loop) 1604.”

Finding a site and raising the funds to plant a local Harvest Bible Chapel has been a labor of love for de Koning and the 75 members who have dedicated their time, money and talents for what they feel is a different kind of church.

“There are Christians who have been Christians for a long time — I know plenty of them — who aren’t really involved in their churches or (teaching) others,” said the pastor. “Our church is an opportunity to turn that around and contribute.”

Unlike many ministries where pastors choose their messages based on a certain topic — a method known as topical preaching — Harvest Bible Chapel practices expository preaching, a style in which members are taken verse by verse through a passage of Scripture.

“Topical preaching is like medicine and expository preaching is like food. I believe you should be getting a lot more food than medicine,” de Koning said.

A resident of Austin for 13 years, the married father of three was teaching Bible classes at another church when he was asked to join a core group in the process of starting a local Harvest Bible Chapel.

Initially declining, de Koning was drawn to Harvest’s four-pillar approach of proclaiming God’s word without apology and through worship, prayer and sharing the Gospel, he said.

Though de Koning never launched a church before, he became

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PASTOR continues on pg. 26

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NOV. 15 - DEC. 14, 2014 PASTOR continues from pg. 25

In honor of the launch of a new Harvest Bible Chapel in San Antonio under the Rev. Josh de Koning, his brother Nate de Koning (left) and committee member James Lacewell (right) took part in a 110-mile bicycle trip from Austin to San Antonio. The 110 miles also symbolizes Harvest's 110 ministries. Photo by Rudy B. Ornelas

PLANTING A CHURCH CAN BE SCARY. IT’S LIKE BUILDING AN AIRPLANE WHILE YOU’RE FLYING IT. REV. JOSH DE KONING

increasingly convinced uniting with the team at Harvest was a good idea.

After joining Harvest, de Koning became an ordained minister and remained in Austin three more years until he was approached last February to move to San Antonio and establish an affiliate ministry.

Leaving the capital and familiar surroundings caused some anxiety; the family hardly knew anyone in San Antonio. They had no place to live, and no idea where they would begin a Harvest church or how to finance it.

“Planting a church can be scary. It’s like building an airplane while you’re flying it,” de Koning said. “Sacrifice is the norm.

You have to put yourself out there.”

Their faith paid off. One week before arriving, the de Konings were offered a house to live in rent-free as they sought to get the word out about Harvest Bible Chapel. They quickly started meeting people and forming relationships with other San Antonians interested in becoming part of the church’s core group.

After a chance encounter with the de Konings in a coffee shop, Tom and Jennie Seltzer were among the first aboard. Despite their initial reservations about leaving the church they had been attending, the Seltzer

family eventually joined the Harvest family.

“I’d been in churches 40 years where they talked about discipleship but no one was doing it,” said Tom Seltzer. “For me, discipleship is key. It’s been a lot of hard work, but my wife and I felt like this is where God was leading us.”

The Seltzers donated their time and finances, helping de Koning set up and host meetings, scout locations and raise the $65,000 needed to begin the church.

All Harvest Bible Chapels are selfsustaining and self-governed.

Shortly before the Stone Oak-area church held its first service, the team raised the entire amount needed for the launch, in addition to about $20,000 in equipment, including projectors, trailers, sound equipment and instruments.

“It’s hard to find a church that teaches Scripture line by line,” Jennie Seltzer said.

“I think this (church) is a great opportunity to reach people and provide a new facet to those searching for a place to hear the word of God on a deeper level.”

Based in Chicago, Harvest Bible Chapel began in 1988 when 18 people formed a new church. By 2000, members started planting churches across the country under the umbrella of the Harvest Bible

PASTOR continues on pg. 28

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Elated by their 110-mile cycling trek from Austin to the North Side, Nate de Koning (left) and James Lacewell (right) celebrate the news of a new Harvest Bible Chapel in San Antonio. Photo by Rudy B. Ornelas

PASTOR continues from pg. 26 Fellowship. The last 10 years has seen global expansion, sprouting more than 60 Harvest churches worldwide.

The newest addition in San Antonio marks Harvest’s 110th ministry — in almost as many cities — and led to a special pilgrimage.

On the weekend before launching, the de Konings and a group of cyclists pedaled the 110-mile trek from Harvest Bible Chapel in Austin to the new location.

Riders stopped to pray for each Harvest church planted, one church for each mile.

“We started out in our living

room, and it’s amazing how God has met us,” said de Koning, the church’s only paid staff member.

The inaugural service kicked off Oct. 5. A sermon series on the book of Philippians was attended by 200 and included worshippers from Harvest churches in Austin, Houston, Iowa and Monterrey, Mexico.

Sunday service is 10 a.m., and a children’s ministry offers music, teaching and discipleship time. An adult ministry is planned for January.

For more or to get involved, call 802-8616 or visit harvestsa.org.

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Unleashed by Petco provides a more boutique style of shopping with natural pet foods and products (far left, above).

It also features a self-serve dog wash, where patrons can wash their furry friends for $10 and employees will clean up the mess (left). Photos by Collette Orquiz

by COLETTE ORQUIZ

C

reating a one-on-one experience with customers is key at the new Unleashed

by Petco, where employees are trying to create a community for animal lovers in the boutique-like store.

Located in the Grandview Shopping Center at 8109 Callaghan Road, Unleashed by Petco focuses on providing natural, organic and holistic dog and cat food as well as other supplies.

The store opened on Sept. 2, next door to Sprouts Farmers Market.

“It’s a great location,” said general manager John Sierra. “Normally people who feed themselves well will go and feed their pets well, also.”

Among the many shelves displaying allnatural foods, patrons will also find dog-treat bars (different types are sold by the pound)

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and a cat-litter station, where customers can fill a jug with cat litter and receive a discount when they return for more.

The store does not sell live animals, but instead provides all the items necessary to properly care for dogs and cats, and even companion animals such as gerbils, fish or rabbits.

Among the other differences between Unleashed by Petco and its much larger sister store Petco is a self-serve dog wash.

For $10, pet owners can bathe their dog with the shampoo, conditioner, blow-dryers, aprons and towels provided for them.

“You do the washing, we do the cleaning.

You and your pet get to bond and then we clean up and disinfect, wash the towels and collect the fur when you’re done,” Sierra said.

The staff at Unleashed by Petco

also wants to build relationships with pet owners and their pets.

“We like to offer one-on-one customer service. We like to give a ‘wow’ experience,” Sierra said. “When customers walk into the store we like to greet them; we’ll go as far as actually carrying bags out to the car.”

Sierra also said they give tours of the store since it is still new to the neighborhood.

Unleashed by Petco is open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday.

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BUY LOCAL Learn more about newest purveyors of goods and services in your area

Sail the culinary seas with new Trader Joe’s

by COLETTE ORQUIZ

A

ffordable prices, wholesome products and an intimate shopping experience make Trader Joe’s a great place to visit, browse and buy, said Jorge Macias, the general manager — or captain in Joe’s parlance — of the chain’s newest store in San Antonio.

Trader Joe’s debuted Oct. 15 in the Sonterra Village shopping center at 403 N. Loop 1604 West.

Macias moved to San Antonio two years ago to start the city’s first Trader Joe’s in the Quarry Village at 350 E. Basse Road.

“I’m really excited to get the opportunity to open this store in this community (North Side),” Macias said.

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Nearly 90 percent of the food, wine and beer sold at Trader Joe’s is the company’s own brand. The label stays away from artificial flavors and preservatives, synthetic colors, monosodium glutamate, genetically modified ingredients and partially hydrogenated oils or artificial trans-fats, company officials said.

“The private label allows us to control the quality ... and bring the customer a great value, where quality and price intersect,” Macias said.

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shelves to freezers, are always sold at a low price, according to Macias.

Food selections run the gamut from imported to ethnic varieties, he added.

“We like to think of ourselves as the traders of the culinary seas and bring in a variety of new items for customers to try,” Macias said.

In keeping with the nautical theme, other employees are called merchants and mates. The store’s founder, Joe Coulombe, created the concept after a trip to the Caribbean in the

About 90 percent of the food and beverages at Trader Joe’s is the company’s own brand, making it easy for customers to enjoy low prices every day on items without artificial flavors, preservatives and more, the general manager said. Photos by Collette Orquiz

1950s, according to the company.

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Whether you’re looking for a pastry such as the almond croissant (far left) or just want to sit down for breakfast or lunch with the Toluqueña torta (left), Malinalli Bakery & Bistro has a mix of both sweet and savor flavors. Photos by Collette Orquiz

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

Flour power inspires bakery and bistro

by OLIVIER J. BOURGOIN

C

ASTLE HILLS — The name of the new bistro and bakery Malinalli is derived from the word for a plant in Nahuatl, the ancient language of the Aztecs. The design is even incorporated in the logo.

Owned by the husband-and-wife team of Alan and Veronica Freeman, Malinalli Bakery & Bistro is located at 2211 N.W. Military Highway, No. 131.

Alan Freeman grew up in Chicago and also in the Colonia Coyoacan neighborhood of Mexico City. His wife, who is from Mexico, is the baking artist responsible for all the flour-powered pastry creations featured at Malinalli.

“Veronica is a master of culinary arts,” Alan Freeman said. “She studied

in Michoacan and she is also a certified artisan bread-maker and pastry chef.”

The husband takes care of the front of the house while his wife rules the kitchen.

One employee also helps at the counter.

The cozy 900-square-foot space just has a few tables, some of which were hand-built and stained by Freeman.

“Next, I am going to add a few more tables outside to make it like a patio,” he said.

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The eatery offers omelets, hand-rolled croissants, tarts, cupcakes and several types of crêpes — both savory and sweet.

Freeman and his wife three months ago took over the lease of the space formerly known as Pizzaz. They changed the name to Malinalli and switched from frozen yogurt to several new items that have become favorites with customers, including the Toluqueña torta, made with healthy and homemade green chorizo, ham, Oaxaca cheese, avocado, onions and chipotle sauce.

One of Freeman’s favorite dishes is the Valenciana torta, made with calamari in its own ink, fresh cheese, red onions, avocado and cilantro sauce.

His wife likes the Madrileña torta — prosciutto, manchego cheese, cherry

tomatoes, arugula and sprouts.

“Our tortas are not at all like Spanish tortas. The best way to describe them is that they resemble Italian panini on home-baked bread, except they are not pressed,” Freeman said. “They are typical Mexican-style sandwiches but with an international twist.”

The cornbread is reminiscent of the pain de Gênes enjoyed by families in Paris.

Hours are 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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

South-of-the-border treats at Munchies

RAMIRO MENDIOLA, OWNER OF MUNCHIES

by COLLETTE ORQUIZ

C

ASTLE HILLS — Homesick for food from his native Mexico, entrepreneur Ramiro Mendiola decided to open a shop filled with the snacks he was missing from south of the border.

Mexican snacks are abundant at Munchies, where owner Ramiro Mendiola provides authentic menu items from south of the border such as the Mangonada (above) and even a few he concocted on his own, like a chalupa (right) made from a cucumber and filled with pineapple, jicama and mango and drizzled with chamoy. Photos by Collette Orquiz

Mangonadas, elote (corn in a cup), aguas frescas and shaved ice are just a few of the staples at Munchies Shakes, Snacks & More, which recently moved to 2211 N.W. Military Highway, Suite 111a.

The new spot is just down the street from the old location at 2009 N.W. Military, which had just a patio and a drive-thru.

The eatery is keeping the snacks as authentic as possible without any Tex-Mex influence, Mendiola said.

“You’re not going to find anything with

this flavor,” Mendiola said. “I’ve tried it and I’ve gone to different places trying to find good stuff and it was impossible.”

He even imports ingredients from Mexico, such as white corn and the chamoy, a savory sauce that ranges from a liquid to a paste and is made from pickled fruit spiced with powdered chiles.

The new space is similar to a frozen yogurt parlor. Customers can come in and enjoy their treats instead of just taking them on the go. Mendiola said there is nothing quite like Munchies, especially because most stands that serve similar items only have a small pickup window or a drive-thru.

Mendiola said the menu speaks for itself.

Selections include well-known snacks as well as ones he created, such as a chalupa

made from a cucumber filled with pineapple, jicama and mango and drizzled with chamoy.

“We offer something totally different, totally new, fresh... people get addicted to it,” Mendiola said. “There are people coming four times a week and we’re open six days a week.”

HINT: The mangonada is a spicy and tangy treat perfect for those trying a Mexican snack for the first time. It is shaved ice with fresh mango chunks and topped off with chamoy and chili powder.

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3

2.7

3.6

2.5

SOURCE: San Antonio Board of Realtors: Texas Market Trends report The properties are new listings put on the market from early September 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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1. Hand crafted in San Antonio from 5/4 Western Red Cedar, the perfect outdoor wood. 2. Held together with water proof glue and stainless steel fasteners for a true no corrosion, rust or rot product. 3. It is not uncommon for a properly finished Adirondack Chair to last 100 years.

Our Pledge: If for any reason your Adirondack Furniture does not live instagram.com/localcommunitynews up to your expectations, let us know, and we will make it right.

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Visit our website for a complete listing of outdoor products from the Classic Adirondack Chair to the Garden Chair and table sets.

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30.00

$

RECEIVE A FREE

SERVICE

with the purchase of a $100 gift certificate * Offer ends 12/31/2014

10918 Wurzbach Rd. San Antonio

(210) 641-7600

www.sergiossalonandspa.com

worth of G ift Cer Get a $25 tificates, Gift Certifi cate for Free!

Italian Grill

Tuesdays Half Price Bottle of Wine from 4-9pm Live Music every Tuesday & Wednesday from 6-9PM Join Us the First Friday of Every Month for 5 Dollar Appetizers & Drinks Bar Only 4-11pm

Lunch

Dinner

$5 Off

$10 Off

TOWARDS THE MINIMUM PURCHASE OF $20.00 ON ENTREES ONLY

TOWARDS THE MINIMUM PURCHASE OF $30.00 ON ENTREES ONLY

*Offer can only be used during lunch hours. Multiple certificates will not be accepted. Offers valid for dine-in only. Not valid with/or at Happy Hour and with any other offers. No cash value. Does not include tax or gratuity. Certificate is void if altered, defaced, copied, transferred or sold through any online auction. expires December 15, 2014 , must present this offer

*Offer can only be used during dinner hours. Multiple certificates will not be accepted. Offers valid for dine-in only. Not valid with/or at Happy Hour and with any other offers. No cash value. Does not include tax or gratuity. Certificate is void if altered, defaced, copied, transferred or sold through any online auction. expires December 15, 2014 , must present this offer

Gift Certificate

Gift Certificate

Wednesday to Saturday Happy Hour from 4-7pm Bar Only Reverse Happy Hour Wednesday to Saturday from 9pm-11pm Bar Only Sunday, Monday & Tuesday Happy Hour from 4pm-9pm Bar Only Sunday Fundays $4 Mimosa & Bloody Mary All Day

www.scuzzisitaliangrill.com

Make Dining Reservations at Open Table

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4035 North Loop 1604 West Suite #102 San Antonio, TX 78257

210-493-8884

Complimentary Exam NEW CLIENTS ONLY (COMPLIMENTARY EXAM FOR ONE PET PER HOUSEHOLD)

VITALPET HUEBNER OAKS VETERINARY HOSPITAL 12058 VANCE JACKSON, STE 101, SAN ANTONIO, TX 78230 | (210) 696-3211

Quality medicine in a caring family environment TM

www.vitalpet.com

2014

2014

Expires 12/15/14

2014

Expires 12/15/14

2014

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

4204 GARDENDALE STE. 201 SAN ANTONIO, TX 78229

*European model shown. 3 Series lease offer valid on a 2014 BMW 320i Sedan. No security deposit and $0 down. $299 per month for 36 months- ďŹ rst payment and Tax, Title and license fees due at signing. 10K miles per year residual value $21,231 or 66% of MSRP. Stock# E2052 MSRP $33,700 Offer exprires 11/30/14.