LOCAL: Metrocom February 2016 by San Antonio Local Community News

The next phase PG.22 Schertz Crossvine developers

optimistic on home sales, slated infrastructure improvements

PG.17 JUDSON ISD JUGGLING DECISION ON FUTURE BOND

TRANSPORTATION

Options of $224.6 million and $265.8 million could await voters

PG.20 MPO mulls funding for

short-term regional initiatives

PG.26 BUY LOCAL

PG.27 EAT LOCAL

EMBRACE ORTHODONTICS

ROXY SPORTS BAR & GRILL Neighborhood watering hole moves to new spot in Universal City

VOL. 3, ISSUE 8

METROCOM PROJECTS

COMMUNITY NEWS BRACKEN CIBOLO CONVERSE GARDEN RIDGE LIVE OAK SCHERTZ SELMA UNIVERSAL CITY WINDCREST

Ready for robotic challenge PG.24 Beastmode Builders headed

to regional competition in March

New clinic creating better smiles to help patients 'embrace' life FEB. 15 - MARCH 21, 2016

INVEST WISELY! Highest Quality • Cutting Edge Technology Experienced Craftsmen

GO WITH GARY.

Over 24,000 of your neighbors already have!

Having trouble with your hearing? You’re in LUCK

SWIM READY POOL

$ 35,660! BUILD NOW, SAVE THOUSANDS!

Let Doss Audiology & Hearing Center be your lucky charm to better hearing this Spring! This spring, give yourself the gift of better hearing with help from Doss Audiology & Hearing Center and Starkey. Our hearing experts are dedicated to helping you hear your very best. With styles to fit any need or budget, Starkey hearing aids are designed to improve hearing in noisy environments, eliminate buzzing and whistling, and make talking on the phone enjoyable and easy.

Spring into better hearing! Let Dr. Doss at Doss Audiology & Hearing Center help you hear your favorite sounds this spring. Phallon Doss, Au.D., CCC-A, F-AAA Doctor of Audiology

OPEN SATURDAYS 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Quality and Reliability Since 1954 garypools.com 210-494-1313

DOSS AUDIOLOGY & HEARING CENTER 5000 Schertz Parkway, Suite 300 Schertz, TX 78154 www.dossaudiology.com Find us on Facebook

Call (210) 819-5002

300

OFF

any pair of

Starkey Z Series

Hearing Instruments Offer Valid through March 31st, 2016

5 ANNUAL CONVERSE th

GOES GREEN DAY! PRESENTED BY CONVERSE EDC & BUILD SAN ANTONIO GREEN

SATURDAY MARCH 19

Converse City Hall 405 S. Seguin St. Converse, TX

10 AM - 2 PM (Rain Date - March 26)

COME & SEE! Save money and save the environment. Learn about a wide range of money saving programs you can USE to help our environment. Learn how to save water, energy and more including free insulation and gardening tips. You won’t want to miss this fun family friendly day! Free giveaways while supplies last. Vendors will include food & beverage, arts & crafts and entertainment.

CPS ENERGY MAJOR CONTRIBUTOR Vendor and sponsor opportunities available. For more details contact Converse EDC:

210.659.9163 • ConverseEDC.com

BEFOR

FEB. 15 - MARCH 21, 2016

FROM THE EDITOR

wwright@localcommunitynews.com

President Harold J. Lees

AFTER

Family Dentist Cosmetic & Dental Implant Center IN SCHERTZ

210-318-4675

Fortuna A. Vardeman, DDS

Text us for an appointment request • 210-658-9031 Fortuna A. Vardeman, DDS 3900 FM 3009, Ste. 104, Schertz, TX 78154

TEXAS SMILE MAKEOV VER

10 porcelain crowns

FREE Dental

199 mo.

Implant Consultation and Smile Evaluation

With approved credit.

Complete Single Implant & Crown package Includes • Sedation • Extractions • Bone graft • Implant crown • Abutment

102 mo.

With approved credit.

Implant Snap On Denture Package Inclludes

285 mo. With approved credit.

• Sedation • Exxtractions • Bone graft • Im mplants • Contouring • Temporary denturre • Permanent snap on denture

RandolphFamilyDental.com

Publisher Gregg Rosenfield

Director of Operations Jaselle Luna

Assoc. Publisher Rick Upton

EDITORIAL Executive Editor Thomas Edwards Managing Editor Will Wright News Staff Collette Orquiz and Bain Serna Contributing Writers Olivier J. Bourgoin, Neven Jones, Eric Moreno, Arthur Schechter and Susan Yerkes ART Creative Director Florence Edwards Contributing Photographer Rudy B. Ornelas ADVERTISING Account Manager Dawn Radick Controller Keith Sanders READER SERVICE Mailing Address 4204 Gardendale St., Ste. 201 SA, TX 78229 Phone (210) 338.8842 Fax (210) 616.9677 Advertising Inquiries rupton@localcommunitynews.com Story Ideas tips@localcommunitynews.com Website www.salocallowdown.com LOCAL Community News publications Zone 1: 78204, 78205, 78209, 78210, 78212, 78215 Zone 2: 78213, 78230, 78231, 78248, 78249 Zone 3: 78216, 78232, 78247 Zone 6: 78258, 78259, 78260, 78261 Zone 7: 78015, 78023, 78255, 78256, 78257

Reproduction in whole or in part without our permission is prohibited, 2016 Helen Publishing LLC and Local Community News LLC, all rights reserved. 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

It’s now The Chamber

he Schertz Chamber of Commerce is moving ahead by expanding its vision for promoting area commerce. Late this past December, it began a name change to The Chamber, which members feel more adequately reflects its place in the community. “We’re a very forward-thinking chamber and we’re looking towards the future,” said President Maggie Titterington during the organization’s monthly luncheon Jan. 19. “For the past five years – almost six since I’ve been here – we’re seeing a growing, more diverse membership. It’s not just … Schertz, but it’s Cibolo, Selma and beyond that. We cover 13 cities in six counties.” The Chamber, founded in 2005, has grown to about 410 associates. Its influence extends north of Austin and south into San Antonio, with burgeoning interest and membership east, west and in-between. “We needed a new name and a new look that would fit that vision we’re going for,” Titterington said. In recent years, the organization has increased its events, including the annual Business Expo, Health & Wholeness Fair, Home Living Showcase and Taste of the Town. Last year it established a Military Affairs Committee, which successfully connected current and former servicemen with area businesses. A new website, and a search for additional ways to enhance business development, are ahead. “(We’re) The Chamber for the whole area,” Titterington said. “We’re the chamber of commerce, the chamber of business and the chamber for advocacy.” With a fresh look and logo, The Chamber could be poised to achieve new goals and heights in 2016.

WILL WRIGHT MANAGING EDITOR ON THE COVER: The Beastmode Builders, a robotics team at Watts Elementary School in Cibolo, won a local competition and is headed to the regional in San Antonio. Participation encourages interest in science, technology, engineering and math — or STEM — disciplines. See story on page 24. Photo by Neven Jones

SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM

LOCAL COMMENTARY

Preparing for SA’s big 3-0-0 jamboree by SUSAN YERKES

f there’s one thing San Antonio loves, it’s a party. So, you can bet the bash for the city’s 300th birthday, coming up in 2018, will be a big one. City mothers and fathers have consistently considered early May 1718 as the official birth of San Antonio. Back in 1691, a Spanish expedition stopped at a fertile area around San Pedro Springs, called Yanaguana by the natives. On June 13, the feast day of St. Anthony of Padua, they named the spot in honor of the saint. The expedition continued onward, but the name was added to Spanish maps, and has endured.

However, most historians recognize 1718, when the mission and seat of government were actually dedicated, as San Antonio’s anniversary date. On May 1, Mission San Antonio de Valero was established on the banks of San Pedro Creek. Four days later, a presidio – a fortified base usually accompanied by Spanish missions – was established nearby. The surrounding Villa de Béjar soon grew to a whopping 300 residents. In 1731, 55 Canary Islanders, sent by Spain as the first official colonists, immigrated, and the cornerstone for San Fernando church was laid to mark the town center. By August the same year, the first municipal elections were held. Growth during the first 150 years was pretty slow. By 1803, San Antonio counted 2,500 residents. By 1870 – after the Battle of the Alamo, the establishment of the Republic of Texas, U.S. statehood and the Civil War – the population numbered 12,000. Just seven years later, after the railroad arrived, inhabitants more than tripled to 37,000. The strong military presence brought more folks to town, as did a big exodus from Mexico during its revolutionary years. And, look at us now: The seventhlargest city nationwide, with nearly 1.5 million residents – more than 2

native and longtime champion of San Antonio international trade Dr. Alfonso Chiscano), promises great things. We’ll start seeing the gradual rollout this spring. Everyone will surely notice widespread emphasis on the historical Spanish missions after the honor of being designated a World Heritage Site. It will be fascinating to see how far along plans have come for an extensive revamping of the Alamo Plaza area by the city and state. A redesign of the HemisFair grounds will be further along. I also hope the University of Texas at San Antonio Institute of Texan Cultures, originally built during HemisFair, will have a premiere place in showcasing the diverse and fascinating history of our corner of the state. Right now, plans are still forming. Check out celebrate2018.com and see how you can contribute. Let’s party like there is a tomorrow – a great one! syerkes@localcommunitynews.com

million if you count the surrounding metropolitan area – and still one of the fastest-growing U.S. regions. Of course, there’s urban sprawl, traffic and all the headaches of big-city life to challenge us. So, as we celebrate our 300th, it’s also critical to keep focused on planning for the future. San Antonio is used to change. In 1968, years of planning came to fruition in HemisFair, the international exhibition, which played a major role in transforming downtown and establishing the city as a gateway to Latin and South America. The fair lost money, but it changed the collective mindset of San Antonio. An equally important part of our history was the creation of the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. It’s going to be hard to top such sweeping change for San Antonio’s big 3-0-0. The city’s Tricentennial Commission, led by Edward Benavides and Asia Ciaravino and a formidable board of directors (including Canary Islands

AS WE CELEBRATE OUR 300TH, IT’S ALSO CRITICAL TO KEEP FOCUSED ON PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE.

NOW OPEN Estate Planning Wills Power of Attorney

Family Law

Uncontested Divorce

Personal Injury

Commercial Vehicles Trucking Accidents Car Wrecks

Consumer Protection Auto Dealership Fraud Contractor Fraud Insurance Denial

CA L

(210) 888-9953 • GrantQLaw.com

17323 IH-35 North, Suite 105 Schertz, Texas 78154 Located in the same shopping center as Abel’s between Canyon Cleaners and Schertz Chiropractic.

Universal City United Methodist Preschool and Kids’ Day Out

OUR TURN Views and opinions about your community

Ride-hailing firms offer more options

T March 1, 9:00 AM, Room 14

Kids’ Day Out: Ages 12 mos. through 35 mos. by Sept. 1, 2016 An awesome toddler program with large classrooms and experienced teachers. Preschool: Ages three and four by Sept. 1, 2016 Nationally acclaimed and locally valued as the area’’s best preschool! *The preschool is accredited by NAEYC (www.naeyc.org)

www.ucumpreschool.com • www.ucumckdo.com 90 Winn Ave. Universal City, TX 78148

658-5761

he return of ride-hailing companies Uber and Lyft to San Antonio this past fall — and new kid on the block, Get Me, in mid-January — will help accelerate the pace of affordable mass transit, especially for those on a tight budget.

While this is not to disparage the professional cab drivers who work tirelessly as ambassadors for the Alamo City, Uber and Lyft — with their hipster appeal to millennials, young professionals, students and others watching their pennies — open yet another avenue to accessible transportation in a growing city. In spite of the bump in the road last April 1, when Uber and Lyft stopped operating in San Antonio (though rides continued in the suburbs), city fathers

FEB. 15 - MARCH 21, 2016 such as San Antoio District 8 Councilman Ron Nirenberg worked hard to get both revving again on local streets. As Nirenberg told the media, the requirements placed on both companies by San Antonio at the time were in essence needless roadblocks, and created barriers to more transportation in an already heavily regulated industry. Ride-hailing businesses also provide a private-sector answer to subsidized, public mass-transit systems by offering affordable, reliable and rapid door-to-door services. These transportation network companies aren’t getting a free pass from San Antonio, either. Their services are on a nine-month trial basis, which will be reviewed to ensure there are no safety issues or other concerns. The three are now on board with city terms stipulating increased vetting of drivers, overseen by the San Antonio Police Department. Prospective customers access ride-hailing services through cellphone apps, and local drivers using personal vehicles shuttle these assigned passengers. With the city’s program, patrons can now verify operators who underwent additional background clearances. It’s good to see the brakes have been taken off free enterprise and given the green light.

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

SALE!

Dreams Call Today

210-777-3237 www.candjsanantonio.com

$500 Off Any

Full Kitchen Remodel

Kitchens, Bathrooms, Safe Walk in Showers, Granite, Custom Cabinets, Flooring, Painting Liscensed Bonded AND Insured Military & Senior Discounts

FLOORING

210-239-9173 Hardwood • Laminate • Carpet • Tile • Sand & Refinish

5.49

$3.49

5” Handscraped Wood Floors!

Installed

TILE Special *Includes wood, glue, and basic labor

12x12 or 18x18

Includes: Tile & Basic Labor *See store for details. Expires March 31, 2016

Financing Available w.a.c.*

FREE

In-Home Estimate We can bring the showroom to you!

Race to 4th Annual

Call today for Appointment

Winner of the 2014 Super Service Award

F R E E Furniture Moving & F R E E Floor Cleaning Kit With Purchase *

210-239-9173

7th Annual

Visit Our Showroom At:

Laminate

Starting at $2.99sf Installed *see store for details

Carpet

Starting at $1.99sf Installed *see store for details

Bath & Shower Remodels Available

26610 US Hwy 281 N San Antonio, TX 78260 Mon. - Sat. 10am - 5pm

www.SAFlooringPerfections.com

Oh, The Places You Should Go

Now Hiring

March 16th 5pm – 8pm

at Retama Park in Selma!

Media Sales Representatives

Join a fantastic culture with great growth opportunities • • • • •

Competitive Salary Commissions Bonuses Paid Vacation Paid Insurance

Responsibilities

Servicing and growing accounts within an assigned geographic territory within San Antonio along with community involvement. No Experience Necessary

Ticket Prices Adults - $15 Seniors 60+, Kids 3-11yrs & Military - $10 Over 40 Vendors featuring food, beverages and more! Supporting Sponsors

/localcommunitynews Careers With LOCAL Interested candidates should send a cover letter and resume to:

kgarza@salocallowdown.com • 210-338-8842

You joined a gym to get your body in shape, now it’s time to get your Skin in shape with our VIP Skin Club. Choose our Silver, Gold, or Platinum Club to meet your skin care goals in 2016!

FEB. 15 - MARCH 21, 2016

HAPPENING LOCAL

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

OUR GUIDE TO YOUR MONTH

HAPPENING KEY

FITNESS

LOVE READING? The Universal City Public Library’s temporary 13 home, 401 W. Byrd Blvd., will host a book sale from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Books of all genres can be purchased. Sponsored by Friends of the Universal City Public Library, all proceeds go to the new-library fund. For more, email Lou Ann Shircliffe at shircliffela@gmail.com.

CALL TODAY TO SCHEDULE YOUR FREE CONSULTATION 210-635-0411

5016 FM 1518, Selma TX 78154 210-635-0411 • www.RejuvUrSkin.com Monday - Friday 9-5, evenings and weekends by appointment.

UNIVERSAL CITY’S SNOWFEST & CARNIVAL Celebrate 13 the winter season in chilly style by attending the seventh annual event from 3-9 p.m. at Universal City Park, 305 North Blvd. Enjoy snow, food, shopping, music, rides and magic. For more including admission pricing, visit www.ucsnowfest.com.

FEBRUARY

*Transferable **Select Areas

• Free Facial or Hair Removal Per Month** • 50% Off Body Contouring Single Treatment • Free Skin Care Products • Additional Treatment Discounts • Product Discounts • Product of the Month • Transferable* for $10 • Priority Scheduling

EVENT

OUTDOOR

MUSIC

SCHOOL BOARD MEETINGS Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City 18 Independent School District trustees gather at 6 p.m. in the boardroom at 1060 Elbel Road, in Schertz. The public is invited. For more, visit www.scuc.txed. net. Meanwhile, Judson Independent School trustees meet at 7 p.m. in the ERC boardroom, 8205 Palisades Drive, in Live Oak. For more, visit www.judsonisd.org.

FEBRUARY

HOME TOWNE SHOPPE Go to Cibolo’s Grange Hall, 413 20 N. Main St., for an 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. shopping event featuring a variety of local businesses offering jewelry, cosmetics, spa products, clothing, wickless candles

FEBRUARY

HAPPENING continues on pg. 09

InSight EyeCare

NOW OPEN in Cibolo! Happily accepting patients ages 4 and up Now Accepting TRICARE, VSP, EyeMed Buy A Pair Of Prescription Glasses &

DR. JENNIFER BARONDES · Eye exams & contacts · Dry eye · Glaucoma

· Macular degeneration · Cataracts · Lasik evaluations

791 FM 1103 #115 Cibolo, Texas 78108

FOOD

DIGITAL EDITIONS AT WWW.SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM

FEBRUARY

Membership has its Advantages! Choose from our Silver, Gold or Platinum Memberships

ART

Receive One Pair Of Non-Prescription Sunglasses Free.

InSight EyeCare

Select frames only, 20% discount on other purchases.

Call today to make an appointment

210-659-3937 insightcibolo.com

Is your Heater Ready for Winter?

AGEE’S

HAPPENING continues from pg. 08 and much more. Enjoy refreshments and enter to win a door prize. For more, visit https://www.facebook.com/ CiboloGrangeHomeTowneShoppe.

SYSTEM REJUVENATION

LIVE OAK CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS The council regularly convenes at 7 p.m. on the second and last Tuesday of each month at Live Oak City Hall, 8001 Shin Oak Drive. The public is welcome. For more, call 653-9140, ext. 21.

FEB. 23, MARCH 8

For a limited time, get our precision tune up and professional cleaning at a special price. Our certified, professional factory trained technicians will perform 24 individual cleanings, evaluations and adjustments to put your system in factory fresh condition.

SCHERTZ CITY COUNCIL

FEB. 23, MEETINGS The council regularly MARCH 1 & 8

convenes at 6 p.m. on the first, second and fourth Tuesday of each month in the Hal Baldwin Municipal Complex Council Chambers, 1400 Schertz Parkway, Building No. 4. For more, visit schertz.com.

NOW ONLY

COMAL ISD BOARD MEETING Trustees from Comal 25 Independent School District assemble at 6 p.m. in the Support Services boardroom, 1404 Interstate 35 North, in New Braunfels. For more, visit www.comalisd.org.

FEBRUARY

PRESCHOOL REGISTRATIONS Universal City United Methodist 1 Church’s Preschool and Kids' Day Out programs will conduct their fall 2016 registrations for tykes 12 months to 4 years old in Room 14 beginning 9 a.m. at 90 Winn Ave. For more, call 658-5761. TODDLERS RULE Triumphant Lutheran Church, 2 21315 Bat Cave Road, in Garden Ridge, begins fall registration for preschoolers aged 3 to 5 from 9 a.m. to noon at the church’s Fellowship Hall. Enrollment remains open until classes are full. For more, call 651-9090, ext. 2. ST. PAUL’S CHURCH FREE SUPPER During the first 2 Wednesday of each month, St. Paul Evangelical Church, 108 S. Main St., in Cibolo, hosts a free supper from 6-7:30 p.m. For more, call 658-5874.

MARCH

SCHERTZ LIBRARY WINTER BOOK SALE The event at 798 4-5 Schertz Parkway takes place 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. the first day and noon to 5 p.m. the following day in the children’s area meeting room. Featured will be a variety of books for all ages. Purchase a bag for $3 and stuff it with hours of reading pleasure. For more, contact Joanne Ward at jjward75@att.net.

MARCH

HAPPENING continues on pg. 10

It’s smart to properly maintain your system to keep it running as efficiently and reliably as possible. Don’t be fooled by other offers - no one does it better than Agee’s, and no one backs it better!

NORMALLY

Limited Time Only New Customers Only

MARCH

EXCLUSIVE TOTAL

306 W Byrd Blvd. Universal City, TX 78148

210-658-6708 www.ageesac.com YOUR R SATISFACTION’S GUARANTEED, WHEN YOU CALL AGEE’S

TA ACL A5758C Licensed by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. P.O. Box 12157 • Austin, TX 78711 1-800-803-9202 • 1-512-463-6599 • www.tdlr.texas.gov

FEB. 15 - MARCH 21, 2016

HAPPENING continues from pg. 09 WILENCHIK WALK FOR LIFE The annual event, named in 5 memory of former Schertz Councilman Tony Wilenchik, will feature a 5K fun run and a 5K walk. Proceeds benefit cancer research. The race begins at 8 a.m. from the Clemens High School parking lot, 1001 Elbel Road, in Schertz. For more including registration costs, go to visitschertz.com.

MARCH

DIABETES COOKING CLASSES MARCH A&M AgriLife 7,14,21,28 Texas Extension Service, assisting Bexar, Comal and Guadalupe counties, will host “Cooking Well with Diabetes” at Schertz United Methodist Church, 3460 Roy Richard Drive, FM 3009. The four-part series, teaches diabetic-friendly recipes from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Registration, $25 per person, must be received at AgriLife Extension Service’s Guadalupe County offices, 210 E. Live Oak St. in Seguin, prior to March 7. For more, call Guadalupe County AgriLife Extension Service’s Charla Bading at 830-3033889 or email c-bading@tamu.edu.

GARDEN RIDGE WOMEN’S CLUB GARAGE SALE The 12 nonprofit organization will host its annual event from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Garden Ridge Community Center, 9500 Municipal Parkway; three miles west of Interstate 35 on FM 3009. More than 65 vendor tables will be located inside and outside the facility. Admission is free. For more, email event coordinator Jeanie Springer at jbbk01@yahoo.com.

MARCH

SCHOOL’S OUT – SPRING BREAK the time off 14-18 Enjoy when campuses in the Metrocom will be closed all week.

MARCH

TEXAS LEGISLATIVE The March 17-18 CONFERENCE 18 recognition of U.S. Sen. John Cornyn as 2016 Texan of the Year at the New Braunfels Civic/Convention Center, 375 S. Castell Ave., highlights the event. Over two days, the nonpartisan business organization will host an annual forum on public policy and political issues, plus honor past Texans of the Year

MARCH

HAPPENING continues on pg. 11

TRIANGLE PHARMACY Serving the Community Like Family!

N ow Open In Cibolo

210-659-9588 791 FM 1103 Ste. 121 Cibolo,TX. 78108

FREE DELIVERY

For all prescriptions, please feel free to call us. Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, Closed Sat & Sun

We offer both compound and retail drugs in the pharmacy

facebook.com/trianglepharmacysolutions | www.trianglepharmacysolutions.com

SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM HAPPENING continues from pg. 10 during a 7 p.m. dinner and reception on March 17. The group’s 50th annual conference features speakers on the state’s economy, transportation funding and the statewide impact of federal environmental regulations. For more, including tickets, call the Greater New Braunfels Chamber of Commerce at 1-800-572-2626 or visit www.txlegislativeconference.com. CHAMBER EVENTS The Chamber (formerly Schertz Chamber of Commerce) has the following activities. For more including event updates, call 619-1950 or visit www.schertzchamber.org. The February luncheon, updating current business developments and projects in State of the Cities presentations by Schertz, Cibolo and Selma city managers, is 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Feb. 16 at Schertz Civic Center, 1400 Schertz Parkway. Admission is $28, $18 for Chamber members. The Chamber’s Military Affairs Committee hosts its second annual “SC MAC Yourself into Shape” workshop and job fair for veterans, transitioning current military members and their spouses on Feb. 17 at Wayland Baptist

FEBRUARY /MARCH

11 University, 11550 Interstate 35 North in San Antonio. Topics at the free event include résumé preparation, educational opportunities, personal branding and communication skills, and dressing for success at employment interviews. A job fair, featuring local businesses seeking employees, follows at 2 p.m. Registration commences at 7:30 a.m.; workshops begin at 8:30 a.m. The event has 15 positions available for companies desiring to hire or provide services to veterans. For more, call Kathleen Kiernan at 590-5607, or email Kiernank@WBU.edu, or visit the MAC link on the Chamber website. The February mixer is 5:30-7 p.m. Feb. 18 at Fox’s Pizza and Taproom, 3900 FM 3009, Suite 101, in Schertz. Admission, featuring networking, food and refreshments and Chamber Cash Drawing, is $10; free for Chamber members. The March mixer, sponsored by Herbalife, is 5:30-7 p.m. March 3 at About Face Nutrition, 420 Schertz Parkway, in Schertz. Admission, featuring networking, food and refreshments and Chamber Cash Drawing, is $10; free for Chamber members. The March luncheon, featuring Andrew Glass, who will discuss “Social Media,

HAPPENING continues on pg. 12

Live Oak Allergy & Asthma Clinic

FEB. 15 - MARCH 21, 2016

HAPPENING continues from pg. 11

Raiqua S. Arastu, MD & Lisa Whelchel, FNP-C www.arastuallergyasthma.com

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS & MOST INSURANCES

Live Oak Medical Complex 11515 Toepperwein Rd #202, Live Oak, Texas 78233 P (210)646-6978 Our Research Department Offers Opportunities to Participate in Clinical Trials of Promising New Treatments.

Qualifying participants may be compensated for time & travel. If interested in possible screening to any of these studies you may contact us at our Live Oak Location for further details.

FOR STUDY INFO:

Contact Eleanor or Neelam at 210-646-6978 ext 28 We specialize in the diagnosis & management of allergies, asthma, and we are currently seeking volunteers for an Asthma Study.

Marketing and Analytics,” is 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 15 at Schertz Civic Center. The $28 admission is $18 for members who RSVP before March 8. The seventh annual “The Taste” (this year titled “Race to the Taste”), sponsored by H-E-B and presented by Ben E. Keith Co., is 5-8 p.m. March 16 at co-sponsor Retama Park, 1 Retama Park, in Selma. The event features food and beverages from area restaurants and businesses. Tickets, available at the Chamber offices, 1730 Schertz Parkway, cost $15 for adults; $10 for seniors 60plus, active and retired military with ID, and children 3-11; and free for 2 and under. The Chamber’s Toastmasters convenes 6:45 p.m. each Monday at the Comfort Inn & Suites meeting room, 5571 Interstate 35 North, in Selma. SAN ANTONIO NORTHEAST TUESDAYS ROTARY MEETINGS The club gathers 6:30 p.m. weekly at The Lion & Rose British Restaurant & Pub in The Forum shopping center, 8211 Agora Parkway, Suite 112, in Live Oak. For more, visit www.sanortheastrotary.com.

RANDOLPH METROCOM

WEDNESDAYS ROTARY The club meets most

weeks at noon at the Olympia Hills Golf & Event Center, 12900 Mount Olympus St., in Universal City. Lunch is $15 per person. Please RSVP to David@ DavidSippel.com by noon Friday before the luncheon. Upcoming guest speakers include Kate Silvas, Converse Economic Development Corp. executive director (Feb. 17); Mark Gonzales from Congressman Rubén Hinojosa’s office (Feb. 24); and Richard Berchin representing Alamo Heights Night (March 2). For more, visit www.randolphmetrocomrotary.org. CIBOLO GRANGE THURSDAYS MARKETPLACE The nonprofit agricultural and civic organization hosts weekly Farmers and Artisans Markets from 2-6 p.m. at Grange Hall, 413 N. Main St., in Cibolo. Homegrown produce and handcrafted items will be available from local vendors. For more, visit facebook. com/CiboloGrangeFarmersMarket or call 307-0599.

HAPPENING continues on pg. 13

MATTRESS & FURNITURE

S.E. Military Dr. @ Roosevelt location

For Less

Best Values

210-680-5355

No Credit Check Financing Available

Bandera Rd., location

Fast

Special Internet Delivery Deals

Serving San Antonio for 30 years Leather • Solid Wood • Sectionals • Kids Furniture • Recliners • Mattresses

WWW.SAMATTRESS.COM

Weidner Rd. location

SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM HAPPENING continues from pg. 12 SWING YOUR PARTNER The FunDancers Square and Line Dance Club boogies weekly at Community Center North, 4923 Morning Drive, in Schertz. Lessons start at 5 p.m.; dancing 7-9 p.m. For more, visit www.asrda.org.

SUNDAYS

GOODWILL PICKUPS ONGOING Goodwill Industries offers donation pickup services for large amounts of clothing, household items and furniture at Bexar County residences. For more, call 271-8881 or fill out pickup forms available at www. goodwillsa.org/home-pickup-services.

ON THE HORIZON READY, SET, GO! The New Braunfels Family YMCA 1 presents Glo4Gold at 8 p.m. from Fischer Park, 1820 McQueeney Road. Besides racing in the nighttime 5K/10K & Youth 1K Fun Run, afterwards will be food, games and entertainment. For more including registration costs, visit www.ymcasatx.org/glo4gold.

APRIL

EAT AND BID The Universal City Veterans 30 Park committee will conduct a barbecue and live auction from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4676, 202 W. Aviation Blvd., in Universal City. For more, call Dave Crookham at 658-7179 or email muggs03@sbcglobal.net.

APRIL

First Baptist Academy www.fbauc.com

Teach the Way, Train in Truth, Live the LIFE

MEDICINE CABINET SPRING CLEANING 30 The Live Oak Police Department wants to safely dispose of unwanted, unused medications on National Prescription Drugs Take-Back Day. The public can turn in their drugs to officers. The police will receive items from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 8022 Shin Oak Drive, in Live Oak. For more, call 945-1759.

APRIL

Open Enrollment Begins Feb. 26th Tour our campus and meet our faculty • Before and Afterschool Care • Athletics, Band, Choir, and Theater • College Prep Academics and Dual Credit Classes Available • Member ACSI / TEPSAC, and TAPPS • 2016 Graduates already exceed $500,000 in scholarships

SUBMITTING EVENTS: Email all

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

Educating Students for time and eternity by presenting God’s Truth in all areas of education and character development.

WWW.SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM

FACEBOOK.COM/SALOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS

210-658-5331

1401 Pat Booker Rd • Universal City, TX 78148

g in w S PUT SOME

2016 © Rainbow Play Systems, Inc.

IN YOUR

SPRING

NO TO O W REN T PAYM WN ENTS WITH AT O STARTIN NLY: G

/MO NTH

6 AREA LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU CALL TODAY AND FIND A SHOWROOM NEAR YOU

1-800-RAINBOW www.RPSofTexas.com

FEB. 15 - MARCH 21, 2016

LOCAL LOWDOWN

IN OTHER NEWS

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

Open and Opening Soon 1. EMBRACE ORTHODONTICS, 791

FM 1103, Suite 113 in Cibolo, opened in November, offering customized treatments for children, teens and adults including traditional braces, clear braces, Invisalign and Invisalign Teen, preventative and early-orthodontic care for children over age 7 and free consultations. Insurance plans are accepted; military discounts and payment plans available. Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and one Saturday each month by appointment only. For more, call 253-2424 or visit www.myembraceorthodontics. com. (See story on page 26)

2. ROXY SPORTS BAR & GRILL, 2801 Pat Booker Road in Universal City, launched in January at the former site of Felix’s Restaurant. Featuring highdefinition televisions, pool tables and daily drink specials, the venue is billed as “an unpretentious watering hole.” Hours

Address of local business Name of local business

are 2 p.m. to 2 a.m. daily. For more, call 267-2747 or visit facebook.com/ RoxySportsBar. (See story on page 27)

3. GOODWILL INDUSTRIES OF SAN ANTONIO, 2722 Walzem Road in Windcrest, recently debuted this new store and donation center. The venue, offering used clothing and retail goods, is Goodwill’s 20th San Antonio-area location and part of Windcrest’s Walzem Road Area Revitalization effort. Hours are 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday. For more, call 924-8581 or visit www.goodwillsa.org.

4. MOE’S SOUTHWEST GRILL, 8000 Pat Booker Road in Live Oak, is slated to open soon featuring TexMex cuisine and other dishes from the national chain’s newest area locale. For more, visit www.moes.com.

REPUBLICAN JOHN LUJAN DEFEATED DEMOCRAT TOMAS URESTI in a Jan. 26 runoff to become the new Texas House District 118 representative. The district covers parts of Universal City, Cibolo, Schertz, Converse, Selma and Live Oak – plus portions of Bexar County, including segments of San Antonio, most of Elmendorf, and all of Somerset, St. Hedwig and Von Ormy. Lujan, a retired firefighter, garnered 52.4 percent and outpolled Uresti by 171 votes to fill the remaining two-year term of Democrat Joe Farias, who resigned in August. The March 1 statewide primary will again feature both candidates, as each seeks their party nominations in the Nov. 8 general election. Uresti will challenge Gabe Farias, Joe’s son, for the Democratic nod; Lujan will face Somerset rancher Robert Casias on the Republican side. THE WINDCREST OPTIMIST CLUB HONORED SEVERAL North East Independent School District students during its Jan. 12 meeting. Members welcomed educators and schoolchildren from seven Roosevelt High School cluster campuses. Club President Jeanie Weidenbach recognized pupils and presented plaques naming them

Windcrest Optimist Students of the Month. Criteria included academic achievement, leadership, perseverance and kindness. Honors went to Kelsi Menn, Roosevelt High School; Faith Evans, White Middle School; Christen Placier, Krueger Middle School; and elementary students Alexander Morales Gallardo, East Terrell Hills; Christian Salazar, Walzem and Bethany DeLeon, Windcrest. Elementary students Myron Green of Montgomery and Norelle Jowers of Royal Ridge received commendation on their campuses. FIVE ROOSEVELT HIGH SCHOOL YEARBOOK STUDENTS accepted awards in the Association of Texas Photography Instructors’ fall photo contest. The nonprofit aids in providing students a higher quality of photo knowledge. Danielle Davenport won second place among first-year photography students in the Student Life Category; Precious Brown captured third place in first-year Digitally Constructed Image. Earning honorable mentions were Cheyenne Rodriguez in first-year Still Life; and Raven Taylor and Itzell Contreras in first-year Cellphone Image.

LOWDOWN continues on pg. 15

REAL. LOCAL. SAVINGS. See how much you could save on car insurance today. J.R. WIlliams | 210-658-6268 | 3126 Pat Booker Road | Universal City

Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states or all GEICO companies. Homeowners coverage is written through non-affiliated insurance companies and is secured through the GEICO Insurance Agency, Inc. Boat and PWC coverages are written through Seaworthy Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and through other non-affiliated insurance companies, and are secured through the GEICO Insurance Agency. Motorcycle and ATV coverages are underwritten by GEICO Indemnity Company. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, D.C. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. GEICO Gecko image © 1999-2014. © 2014 GEICO.

Republican Jessica Richard Crawford for District Judge Jessica Richard Crawford comes from a family of public servantts. Her father,, Roy Richard, is a longtime Guadalupe County Justice of the Peeace, and herr grandfather was Mayor of Schertz. Jessica followed in their footsteps byy earning her law degree and embarking on a career as a proseccutor.

“WE CANNOT AFFORD TO HAVE A SOFT-ON-CRIME, ACTIVIST JUDGE LEAD OUR DISTRICT COURT. I AM A CAREER PROSECUTOR AND CONSTITUTIONAL CONSERVATIVE. AS DISTRICT JUDGE, I WILL BE TOUGH ON CRIME, STRICTLY INTERPRET THE LAW AS WRITTEN, AND NEVER LEGISLATE FROM THE BENCH.”

Now a respected attorney in her own right, Jessica’s legal carreer is rooted d in her conservative values and passion for justice. Jessica believes that thee courtroom is no place for activist judges who advance politicaal agendas att the expense of the law, and she will always be tough on crime.

As District Judge, Jessica Richard Crawford d will ...

JESSICA RICHARD CRAWFORD

Strictly interpret the law as written and never legislate from thhe bench. Deliver tough sentences to violent criminals to keep our familiies safe and provide justice to victims of crime.

THE ONLY CONSERVATIVE CANDIDATE FOR DISTRICT JUDGE. 2nd 25th DISTRICT COURT

“I AM RUNNING FOR DISTRICT JUDGE TO GIVE OUR CITIZENS A COURT THAT IS TOUGH ON CRIME, FAITHFUL TO THE RULE OF LAW, AND ALWAYS HONORS GOD AND THE CONSTITUTION.”

PD POL ADV JESSICA RICHARD CRAWFORD CAMPAIGN. IN COMPLIANCE WITH THE VOLUNTARY SPENDING LIMITS OF THE JUDICIAL CAMPAIGN FAIRNESS ACT.

Provide a justice system for our families and communities thatt is fair, efficient, and always honors God and the Constitution. Jessica Richard Crawford is the only conservative candidate for District Judge. www.Crawfordforjudge.com 830-461-1212 • jessica@Crawfordforjudge.com

Jessica Richard Crawford is a career prosecutor, lifelong Republication, and wife of a New Braunfels police officer. She and her husband have a five year old son.

SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM LOWDOWN continues from pg. 14 ERNEST COX, JUDSON INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT’S director of guidance and counseling, recently was named Texas Counseling Association’s Outstanding Counselor during the organization’s 2015 awards ceremony. Cox was selected for his commitment to the school counseling profession, said TCA officials, who added he decreased JISD counselor non-guidance activities from 45 percent to 11 percent, enabling more time for direct student services. “Because of the outcomes Ernest has achieved, numerous districts have sought him out to share his knowledge on implementing a comprehensive data-analysis study based on the JISD model, Response to Intervention programs and his overall leadership strategies,” the organization said. FORMER 2000 JUDSON HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATE CHRISTIAN LOVING recently was named Junior Sailor of the Year for Naval Health Clinic Charleston, located at Joint Base Charleston-Naval Weapons Station in South Carolina. A petty officer second class and hospital corpsman, Loving is the leading petty officer serving at NHCC’s Medical

e s a

Home Port and a seven-year veteran. The Navy’s Sailor of the Year program recognizes enlisted seamen displaying outstanding achievements, exemplary conduct, military bearing and initiative. THE TEXAS SCHOOL COUNSELORS ASSOCIATION RECENTLY honored counselors from Judson High School, lauding their efforts in assisting pupils’ academic and personal progress. Since 2005, the TSCA’s Counselors Reinforcing Excellence for Students in Texas, or CREST program, cites outstanding secondary school counseling programs helping schoolchildren reach their potential in scholastic performance and social, personal and career aspirations. Judson was among only 56 institutions statewide receiving CREST Awards. THE CONVERSE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORP. honored Converse Christian School, Crossroads Vision and TexStar National Bank for their quarterly efforts Jan. 20 at City Hall. The EDC board created the event in 2015 to connect businesses and the community, and establish a forum to

LOWDOWN continues on pg. 16

Your One Stop Shop for

Knives and Swords

• Katana Swords • Throwing Knives • Fantasy Swords Best • Hunting Knives Prices • Pocket Knives in Town • Broadswords etc.

blades

Booths P3/P4/P5 Busseys Flea Market 18738 IH 35 N Schertz tz, z TXX 78154

New Homes Starting In The 40’S

Now Open M-Sat 9-5 Open Sundays 11-4 CALL TODAY for a tour!

www.txmhsales.com 210-782-8121 Ask for Military ry y Program

all

FREE

Park Package...This Month Only! • Large front deck, Hardi skirting, 8x8 shed, upgrade landscaping, ect. Total package valued at $15,500 • Homes starting at $900/MO. • Own your home in 20 years • Resort style amenities • Gated, Family Community • Open House • Beautiful Models

Regular Sales

Full Service Family Salon! Perms • Shampoo • Color • Cut & Style

Wednesday

Senior Citizens Discount Day 15% On Services

BRAZILIAN BLOWOUT

Tuesday La d Day! Cut & ies Style

$25 OFF

2935 Pat Booker Rd. Universal City, TX 78148

$23

Thursday

Men’s Day Shampoo & Cut $14.00

Tue-Thu: 9-7 Wed, Fri, Sat: 9-6

210-659-3466

Walk-Ins Welcome

5814 Walzem Rd. San Antonio, TX 78218

210-655-6661

BUY - SELL TRADE GUNS! Veteran Owned and Operated OEF/OIF

• Tactical Firearms, Training, Accessories, and Equipment • Quality Firearms by Professionals with the Experience you are looking for!

www.bullitproofarms.com

http://store.bullitproofarms.com

17305 IH-35 N, Ste. 101 Schertz, TX 78154

4 miles North of The Forum

512-826-9612 210-767-3822

FEB. 15 - MARCH 21, 2016

LOWDOWN continues from pg. 15 recognize outstanding city enterprises. The past three quarters, EDC named nine companies; its next ceremony is April 28. “We are grateful that these businesses chose Converse, continuing to provide good quality jobs and valuable services to our citizens,” said Kate Silvas, EDC executive director. “They are proof that Converse is a great place to be.” DUAL-LANGUAGE PROGRAM INFORMATIONAL MEETINGS are set for parents of incoming kindergarten students in the Comal Independent School District. The district’s dual-language curriculum integrates native Spanish-speaking pupils with primarily English ones, for instruction in both tongues. The purpose is to develop bilingual listening, speaking, reading and writing skills for enrolled students from kindergarten through fifth grade. During 2016-17, the program will be offered at Brown, Clear Spring, Kinder Ranch and Morningside elementary schools. Parents of incoming kindergarteners not designated for those institutions but who are interested, may take their children to a campus of choice. Informative 6:30 p.m.

meetings will be at Clear Spring (March 22); Morningside (April 4); Kinder Ranch (April 6), and Brown (April 7). For more, visit www.comalisd.org. COMAL INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT SUPERINTENDENT ANDREW KIM was recently appointed presiding officer on the newly created Texas Commission on Next Generation Assessments and Accountability, according to a CISD release. The board was authorized by House Bill 2804 to develop and recommend a new system of student assessments and public school accountability by Sept. 1, meeting several times in Austin over the upcoming months. Kim, named by Gov. Greg Abbott, said he strongly believes in an accountability system for gauging pupils’ progression. “I do believe in an accountability system that measures student progress from year to year in each district across this great state,” he said. “We need to measure the progress of our work. More than ever, I think we should share and learn from that information so we can make local decisions that strengthen our school district and our community.”

Buying a home is an exciting time in one’s life ... MAKING the SMART MOVE of choosing a Realtor is your 1st important step!

we are on

Don’t make a Move ... Without Us! Cyndi Broschat OWNER/REALTOR®, CRS License# 0496302 cbroschat@satx.rr.com

Call Today! 210-861-2858 or 210-722-9223

SmartMovesRealty.com

we are on instagram.com/localcommunitynews

• Residental Sales, New & Pre-Owned

• Free Buyer Representation • Land, Lots & Acreage

• Property Management Services instagram.com/localcommunitynews

make sure to us on facebook.com/salocalcommunitynews

SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM JISD continues from pg. 01

Trustees have until Feb. 19 to place measure on May 7 ballot by WILL WRIGHT

IVE OAK – Campus overcrowding and overdue repairs of existing facilities are behind Judson Independent School District’s push for a multimillion-dollar bond election.

The district, encompassing seven Metrocom municipalities in three counties, could chose one of two options — either $224.6 million or $265.8 million — to modernize present structures, add two elementary schools, construct the final phase of its newest high school and retire past bond debt. JISD spokesman Steve Linscomb said

district trustees received a summary of both during the board’s Jan. 26 meeting and have until Feb. 19 to call for a May 7 bond election; the board reconvenes Feb. 18. Failure would delay the next bond election until November. “If the board decides to move forward with a decision on the two options at its regular meeting in February, it would go before the public in May – which is what we really hope will happen,” Superintendent Carl Montoya said. “I think we need all of it. In fairness to all of our schools, I think the second option ($265.8 million) is the best one for the district,” Montoya added. “That will help the established schools that have had needs over the years.” Bond planning began in early 2015, shortly after Montoya succeeded Willis Mackey. Then, Montoya hinted JISD needed a comprehensive mechanism to address maintenance needs, technology upgrades and additional elementary schools, which voters rejected in a $198 million bond proposal in 2010. The 2010 rejection was influenced by published reports of board-member infighting and cost overruns associated with

JISD continues on pg. 18

Are you a Type 1 or Type 2 diabetic OR do you take medications to control your Cholesterol?

Northeast Clinical Research of San Antonio is conducting research trials for men and women with Diabetes AND/OR require treatment for high cholesterol. Participants with or without Cardiac Events are welcome. Type 2 Pediatric/Adolescents also welcome. If you are eligible to participate in these research studies you will receive the following at no cost:

• Physical Exams • Laboratory Testing • Research Related Care

• You will receive money for travel expenses • Flexible scheduling • Glucose Testing Supplies

For more information please contact: Northeast Clinical Research of San Antonio, LLC Dr. Laura Akright 5000 Schertz Pkwy. Suite 200 • Schertz, TX 78154

(210) 581-0045

YOUR EDUCATIONAL PATHWAY JUST GOT EASIER

Apply online now for a scholarship (through April 3) ALAMO.EDU/NLC/SCHOLARSHIPS/

New and current students to the Alamo Colleges are encouraged to apply for the 2016-2017 academic year.

1201 Kitty Hawk Rd. Universal City, TX 78148 The Alamo Colleges are an EOE. For any special accommodation issues or an alternate format contact the Title IX Coordinator at (210)-485-0200.

Advertorial

Q and A with SoccerZone Live Oak President Darren Brown

Q A

When should a child first be introduced to soccer? At 18 months, kids can start to develop their motor skills and begin to take direction from someone other than a parent. My daughter took her first parent-assisted Soccer cubs class at two years old. She loved all the games she got to play, the climate-controlled environment of SoccerZone, and getting to interact with other kids. Why is soccer so popular, with more than 265 million players world-wide? It is inexpensive, easy to learn, has a fluid gameplay, and doesn’t require a physically imposing individual in order for a player to excel. I don’t enioy running and I’m not good at it, but put me on a soccer field and I’ll run forever. The excitement and adrenaline rush are addictive, in a good way. What is so appealing about indoor soccer? Indoor soccer is faster paced (more confined area with walls to use as a teammate), higher scoring (and more shooting), gives players more touches on the ball (because it is 6-on6), and requires a shorter time commitment (45 minute games).

Q A

Check out SoccerZoneLiveOak.com or call (210) 598-0131

FEB. 15 - MARCH 21, 2016

JISD continues from pg. 17 2006 bond projects – specifically Rutledge Stadium improvements. Voters later approved a scaled-down $83 million bond in 2013, which funded Copperfield Elementary School and Mackey High School’s first phase. The 2013 measure didn’t include the districtwide repairs and betterments sought in 2010, leading JISD planners to include them in a 2016 referendum. Knowing public skepticism associated with the 2010 bond lingered, the district’s latest bond effort relied on residents’ involvement. The Bond Advisory Committee met three times during December and January prioritizing must-haves. After reviewing facilities and site assessments, opinions from campus personnel and lists of campus necessities, the group noted short-term needs. Highest priorities cited include district growth and renovation of existing facilities; add and enhance districtwide transportation; implement structural improvements for disabled students; and address indoor and outdoor safety issues at all campuses. Growth ranked at the top of the list after district demographers predicted 15 schools would be near 100 percent capacity – including five expected to

JUDSON ISD BOND OPTIONS Judson Independent School District trustees have been presented with two options for a 2016 bond measure under consideration. Each proposition contains additional contingency and indirect costs. The board could select portions of both options and request line-item voter approval for each proposition. JISD has until Feb. 19 to call for a May 7 election:

OPTION 1

Measures Proposition 1 Proposition 2 Proposition 3 Proposition 4

Description Campus and facility modernization Elementary school construction Mackey High School Phase 2 Retire bond debt (Kirby Middle School)

TOTAL OPTION 2

Measures Proposition 1 Proposition 2 Proposition 3 Proposition 4

Projected total $135,878,658 $73,080,000 $51,646,000 $5,200,000

$265,804,658 Source: LPA Inc. for Judson ISD

exceed enrollment capacity – by 2018-19. JISD officials said not taking care of these matters would lead not only to portable buildings and redistricting, or redrawn attendance zones, but could result in detrimental districtwide effects. Montoya said his schools are centers

WINTER SALE!!! 20% off ALL FRAMES! Routine Eye Exams New $70 orig. $100

“not only where kids are educated, but also … as places neighborhood residents use for meetings and community events.” Area businesses employing JISD students and college-bound graduates

JISD continues on pg. 19

CIBOLO VALLEY BAPTIST CHURCH 5500 FM 1103 - Cibolo, TX (210) 658-0525

Ken Kikuchi, O.D.

Therapeutic Optometrist Optometric Glaucoma Specialist

We accept most medical and vision insurance plans: Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO • United Healthcare PPO • Humana PPO Medicare • Tricare South (Humana Military) • Texas Medicaid • VSP Avesis • EyeMed • Spectera • Superior Vision • Community First Health Plan Superior Health Plan ...and more!

Routine Eye Exam • Contact Lens Exam • Medical Eye Exam • We accept CareCredit • In-house optical lab (most jobs done in 4-5 days) • 8 years of experience in ophthalmology clinic • Wide variety of frames available, many well-known nds

Optique Eye Care 210-277-7063 15069 IH 35 North #108 Selma TX 78154

8020 Pat Booker Rd Live Oak TX 78233

$224,559,024

Description Campus and facility modernization Elementary school construction Mackey High School Phase 2 Retire bond debt (Kirby Middle School)

TOTAL

Projected total $94,633,024 $73,080,000 $51,646,000 $5,200,000

www.eyecareselma.com Walk-ins welcome! No appointment necessary. *Frame special does not include lenses, self-pay only.

www.cibolovalleychurch.org

Come Worship With Us SUNDAY MORNING

9:00 AM Traditional Service 10:15 AM Sunday School- all ages 11:30 AM Contemporary Service Children’s Church Both Services

TUESDAY ACTIVITIES

8:45 AM Kids Day Out More info on website: Children’s Ministry – Kids Day out

WEDNESDAY SERVICE

9:00 AM Prayer Team - all are welcome 6:30 PM Prayer Meeting/ Worship Service 6:30 PM Youth Bible Study 6:30 PM Wacky Wednesdays (3yr. potty trained to 6th grade) -nursery always provided / no charge

THE CHURCH ON THE HILL

SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM JISD continues from pg. 18 would see bond approval as a plus for the region, Montoya said. “Big corporations make decisions based on these kinds of things,” he said. “It’s not just about the kids in the classroom – it’s a much broader and bigger perspective we need to think about as we move forward.” Both bond possibilities contain similar propositions, however, modernization measures – updating campus architecture, electrical, plumbing and roofing – in the second option would cost $40 million more than the first. Base costs for the district’s two new elementary schools are projected at $52 million, but voters could be dissuaded by a $36 million hit for Mackey High’s second phase – which Converse resident Randy Pannell cited at the Jan. 19 session. Assistant Superintendent of Operations Milton Fields said JISD addressed the issue in 2013, when it told voters the facility was always slated to be built in two phases, with the second coming after a future referendum approval. Lowell Tacker, a principal with the architectural company LPA Inc., advised bond committee and board

Workforce Programs:

members during the process. Tacker said more residences would lead to overcrowding at four elementary and one middle school by 2018-19, and rejection of Mackey High’s second phase would spur perennial overcrowding at Judson and Wagner high schools. Montoya said Judson is already overcapacity. “We’d like to stage tours to help people understand what everything looks like,” he said. “Judson High School has more than 900 kids than it should have and is busting at the seams.” He added, “Sometimes a picture is worth a thousand words.” According to LPA, either bond option would come at taxpayer expense to district patrons, even though 2013’s didn’t impact taxes. The $224.6 million and $265.8 million proposals would raise taxes $7.50 monthly and $8.33, respectively, on a $150,000 home. As in 2010, the 2016 bond proposal might be separated into four line-item propositions. In late January, JISD trustees were leaning toward Montoya’s second bond option. However, the board might consider other choices – and possibly schedule board workshops and special meetings – before its Feb. 18 session.

Dr. McGarrell and family

Board Certified Orthodontist (A distinction held by only 30% of practicing Orthodontists)

- Metal, Clear and Invisalign Provider - No Interest Payment Plans - Adults Only Treatment Room

Complimentary Consultations with Full Records

Cibolo Schertz LaVernia 210-314-2091 McGarrellOrthodontics.com

Health Professions Instructors Needed!

NEW CLIENT SPECIAL

COLOR, ROOT TOUCH UP, CUT & STYLE

Certified Nurse Assistant

Pharmacy Technician Information Technology

For More Info Call:

(210) 486-5555 (210) 485-0251

Long hair past shoulders $75 With this coupon. Not valid with any other offers.

Patient Care Medial Assistant Medical Front Office

“Celebrate National Children’s Dental Health Month with a Complimentary Orthodontic Consultation”

Braces for Adults and Children

Located in

8088 Old Austin Road Selma, TX 78154

210.396.1777

Adjunct Faculty Hiring Fair Sat. Feb 27 10AM-12PM Alamo University Center 8300 Pat Booker Rd *A study funded by the federal government is being conducted to determine how these training opportunities help people Improve their skills and find better jobs. During the study, eligible applicants will be selected by lottery to participate in these training opportunities. Not all eligible applicants will be selected to participate in these opportunities. This document was supported by Grant 90FX0018 from the Administration for Children and Families, U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS). Its contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of HHS.

w w w. e u r o p e a n h a i r d e s i g n s . c o m

WOMEN HAIR CUT MEN HAIR CUT

With this coupon. Not valid with any other offers.

Diamond K Eyecare

Focusing on Healthy Eyes and Quality Vision Now offering same day or next day service on most prescriptions Dry Eye and Ocular Emergency Eye Care Allergy Treatment Diabetic Eye Exams Cataract Evaluations Glaucoma Glasses Macular Degeneration Laser Vision Correction Contact Lenses Now Accepting Tri Care Prime 1420 Schertz Pkwy., Ste. 130 - Schertz,TX 78154 210-651-3926 • www.diamondkeyecare.com

FEB. 15 - MARCH 21, 2016

MPO continues from pg. 01

Converse, Universal City, other plans await public input by WILL WRIGHT

illions in transportation funding proposals have been accepted by area mobility planners, who will consider the projects’ merits over the next several months.

The Alamo Area Metropolitan Planning Organization, which distributes state and federal dollars for regional transportation projects, met Jan. 25 to discuss plans to improve and expand roadways, hike-bike trails and other amenities as part of the regional Surface Transportation Program. The STP is linked to the area’s Transportation Improvement Program. The January MPO meeting resulted in

圀攀搀搀椀渀最猀

倀漀爀琀爀愀椀琀猀

approved alternatives to its 2015-18 TIP, and slated 41 initiatives totaling $414.6 million for its 2017-20 TIP, which will solicit public opinion through a series of upcoming sessions. Forums will be held in northeast San Antonio (Feb. 23), Comal County (March 1), and Guadalupe County (March 3). Officials in several Metrocom cities greet the possibility of receiving TIP allocations with open arms. “Any number of these TIP proposals could benefit Schertz commuters, as many of our folks drive all over the San Antonio area,” said Schertz spokeswoman Linda Klepper. TIP is a federally required guideline of proposals submitted by local agencies and governments during a four-year period and amended every two years. Representatives said $100 million is accessible for the latest projects. Additional allocations could be expected through other means. Proposition 7 funds, approved by voters statewide last November, are expected to generate at least $2.5 billion for Texas transportation measures beginning in 2018. The newest TIP proposals, scored on

䔀瘀攀渀琀猀

倀栀漀琀漀䈀漀漀琀栀刀攀渀琀愀氀猀

technical merit and public input, lead to final recommendations in May to the Texas Department of Transportation. More than $150 million has been requested for Metrocom transportation developments in the MPO’s 2017-20 TIP, which proposes 16 added-capacity projects – upping the number of travel lanes on major roadways – totaling $205.2 million; and 21 proposed operational projects – improving roadways without additional travel lanes – tallying $189.4 million. Three bicycle/pedestrian project requests account for $19.3 million, with an $801,000 proposal to extend the Alamo Area Council of Governments’ Commute Solutions program past 2019 into 2022. Converse is requesting $12 million to expand Toepperwein Road from Crossbow Peak, one block south of Kitty Hawk Road, to FM 1976. Mayor Al Suarez said it’s a major connection into the planned reconfiguration of 1976 and Gibbs Sprawl Road into an expanded FM 1516 (South Seguin Road) in the city’s heart. “The Toepperwein expansion (proposal) is pretty important because it’s the last phase of the link (to widen)

enjoy having a cup of coffee with Jenny when purchasing a new home! For all the things that move you

䄀琀㔀㔀倀栀漀琀漀猀椀琀ᤠ猀椀洀瀀漀爀琀愀渀琀琀栀愀琀眀攀琀愀欀攀礀漀甀爀瀀栀漀琀漀猀眀椀琀栀漀甀琀琀愀欀椀渀最礀漀甀爀眀愀氀氀攀琀℀ 伀渀䰀漀挀愀琀椀漀渀倀栀漀琀漀最爀愀瀀栀礀匀攀爀瘀椀挀攀猀䤀渀吀栀攀匀愀渀䄀渀琀漀渀椀漀愀渀搀一攀眀䈀爀愀甀渀昀攀氀猀䌀漀洀洀甀渀椀琀礀⸀ 圀攀挀漀洀攀琀漀夀漀甀℀ 䈀刀䤀一䜀伀唀刀䄀䐀吀伀夀伀唀刀㄀匀吀匀䔀匀匀䤀伀一 ☀ 䜀䔀吀㄀ ─ 伀䘀䘀℀℀

㈀㄀ ⴀ㈀㐀㌀ⴀ㐀㜀㘀㜀

㜀䐀愀礀猀䄀圀攀攀欀

䄀瘀愀椀氀愀戀氀攀昀漀爀䌀漀渀琀愀挀琀戀攀琀眀攀攀渀㠀愀洀ⴀ㠀瀀洀䴀漀渀搀愀礀ⴀ匀甀渀搀愀礀

眀眀眀⸀㔀㔀瀀栀漀琀漀猀⸀挀漀洀

MPO continues on pg. 21

Oh, The Places You Should Go

LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS

Now Hiring Media Sales Representatives

Buying • selling • renting • investing • relocating

Join a fantastic culture with great growth opportunities

•

䄀昀甀渀Ⰰ 挀爀攀愀琀椀瘀攀Ⰰ ☀ 瀀爀漀昀攀猀猀椀漀渀愀氀瀀栀漀琀漀最爀愀瀀栀礀搀甀漀℀

FM 1516 to five lanes,” Suarez said. “The Alamo Regional Mobility Authority has already approved expanding 1516 from FM 78 to (Interstate 10), so (the new proposal) is the last leg that will link Toepperwein from Kitty Hawk to FM 1976, and (provide another route) between (Interstate 35) and I-10.” Converse also seeks $4.4 million to widen Kneupper Lane between 78 and Loop 1604, and $5.4 million to expand Rocket Lane between Lower Seguin Road and 1604. Both would tie into current 1604 work connecting 78 and I-10, Suarez added. Universal City wants nearly $8.5 million to extend Kitty Hawk from Sunrise Canyon Drive to FM 1518 and construct a bridge over Cibolo Creek. “It will provide direct access into our extraterritorial jurisdiction, which is only currently available by taking I-35, East Aviation Boulevard or FM 78,” said Randy Luensmann, the city’s public works director. “It will create a direct link into the central part of Universal City.” “It will be of great impact as it will bring in folks from the other side of Cibolo

call Jenny Bingham (210) 590-5000 office (210) 646-2727 Direct (210) 710-5003 cell jbingham@remax.net independently owned and operated

northeast

www.JennyBingham.com

• Competitive Salary • Commissions • Bonuses • Paid Vacation • Paid Insurance Responsibilities

Servicing and growing accounts within an assigned geographic territory within San Antonio along with community involvement. No Experience Necessary /localcommunitynews Careers With LOCAL

Interested candidates should send a cover letter and resume to:

kgarza@salocallowdown.com • 210-338-8842

SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM MPO continues from pg. 20 Creek into the city,” he added. “It will also (allow access) to emergency services once that side of the creek is developed.” Universal City’s other desired TIP project is $7.4 million for East Aviation enhancements extending from Pat Booker Road to Cibolo Creek. Schertz’s lone request calls for $9.5 million for operational improvements along 1518 from I-10 to 78. City voters approved bonds to partially fund 1518 improvements. “The MPO request serves to supplement the $5 million for FM 1518, which was approved as part of the bond,” Klepper said. “Our hope is to match our $5 million with $5 million in remaining funds from (the) Texas Department of Transportation.” TxDOT submitted two other proposals with local interest – separate requests of $4.2 million and $22 million for FM 2252 (Nacogdoches Road) improvements extending from Evans Road to FM 3009. Meanwhile, plans expanding U.S. 281 and I-10 through toll-road funding derailed; the thoroughfares are slated to receive future Proposition 7 dollars. The MPO’s altered course awaits approval

of a revised $532 million expansion of 281 from 1604 to the Comal County line. At its next meeting March 28, the MPO will consider the same for a $200 million expansion of I-10 north of 1604. Both roadways are being considered for controversial high-occupancy vehicle lanes. On Jan. 25, the MPO delayed its decision until after hearing details in a report on nationwide HOV lanes. Bexar County commissioners and Transportation Policy Board members Tommy Calvert and Kevin Wolff still express reservations about HOV lanes for both projects. Terri Hall, founder and director of the anti-toll group Texans Uniting for Reform & Freedom, or TURF, remains staunchly opposed, too. “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 general-purpose lanes all Texans can access, especially considering that every taxpayer’s money is being used to build these lanes.”

Coastal Cuisine

in every season

Birding, boating, shopping, & art www.rockport-fulton.org visitrockportfulton 1-800-242-0071

SEALING WOOD, FLAGSTONE, & PEBBLESTONE

FROM THIS

Cleaning & Sealing Patios and Decks for 28 years... Fences too! www.deckandpatiocare.com Call 210.822.9147

Alamo Area Metropolitan Planning Organization’s Transportation Policy Board has scheduled the following public meetings on $414.6 million in 41 project proposals for the region’s new four-year Transportation Improvement Program for FY 2017-20:

FEBRUARY

Morgan’s Wonderland Event Center, 5223 David Edwards Road, 6-8 p.m. VIA Metro Center Community Room 1021 San Pedro Ave., 6-8 p.m.

Leon Valley Conference Center, 6421 Evers Road, 6-8 p.m.

MARCH

New Braunfels Civic/Convention Center, 375 S. Castell Ave., 6-8 p.m.

MARCH

Boerne Civic Center, 820 Adler Road, 6-8 p.m.

MARCH

Guadalupe County Coliseum, 950 S. Austin St. in Seguin, 6-8 p.m.

FEBRUARY

1 2 3

The American Heart Association recommends eating 2 3.5 servings of fish per week. Cod fish oil has been used since 19th century England. CoQ10 has been shown to lower blood pressure, and decrease muscle pain and weakness related to statin cholesterol lowering drugs. Garlic has been shown to lower cholesterol and reduce plaque preventing blood clots. Green tea may lower bad cholesterol LDL and triglycerides, and raise good cholesterol HDL. Stress has been shown to increase risk of heart disease. Exercise has proven to help improve heart health, as long as it is appropriate for your level of fitness and does not become an added stressor. Exercising too much too fast can put too much of a load on the heart. Being overweight can add stress to your heart while sleeping adequately, 7-9 hours, is good for your heart. Loving on a pet, and avoiding loneliness or bad relationships is also recommended.

Garden Ridge Physical Therapy And Wellness Center, P.C.

210-651-4826 Fax 210-651-4862

TO THIS

Deck & Patio Care

AREA MEETING SCHEDULE

Care for your Heart!

Dr. Diana Schonhoff, PT, DPT

$60 OFF

18945 FM 2252, Ste., 107 Garden Ridge, TX 78266 gardenridgephysicaltherapy.com

FEB. 15 - MARCH 21, 2016

CROSSVINE continues from pg. 01

Amenities attracting residents; commercial complement is also on the horizon by WILL WRIGHT

CHERTZ – The Crossvine master-planned development is on schedule toward its goal of blending single-family residences into a comfortable environment.

The project began in 2014, when developer Chris Price, president of Price Companies and Schertz 1518 Ltd., created the city’s first multipurpose community on a 500-acre tract near the intersection of FM 1518 and Lower Seguin Road. “We’re very pleased with the way things are going,” Price said. “So far it’s been very successful. Barring any macroeconomic issues, we expect it will continue.” The Crossvine is being constructed in

The Crossvine’s community amenities center features a resort-style pool and covered events pavilion. Courtesy photo

stages over eight years. Along with singlefamily homes, also planned are garden homes, townhouses, multifamily clusters, and independent- and assisted-living facilities, along with small commercial retail areas. The first phase, 121 single-family houses on 50-, 60- and 70-foot plots, constructed by David Weekley Homes and Ryland Homes, was completed last December. As of Jan. 18, Ryland and Weekley have sold 32 and 47 homes, respectively, for an occupancy rate exceeding 65 percent. Last September, second-phase construction began, slated to include 120 homes priced from $300,000 to $450,000. “The Crossvine has been a great

Easter In The Park Saturday, March 26, 2016 Pickrell Park in Schertz Please join us for this FREE community event which will include a live appearance from the Easter Bunny, games, an egg hunt of over 6000 eggs and over 100 prizes for egg hunt winners! Bring your camera & Easter basket! Providing free vision screening for children. Registration begins at 9:30am Egg Hunt Schedule: Crawlers – 10:00am Children Under 3 – 10:20am Children Ages 3-4 – 10:40am Children Ages 5-7 – 11:00am Children Ages 8-10 – 11:20am

Sponsored by Schertz-Cibolo Lions Club & HEB

community for us,” said Gary Runner, San Antonio-area division president for David Weekley Homes. “We’re thrilled with how well these homes have been received by homeowners, and look forward to continuing to partner with Chris Price to further develop a well-designed neighborhood with unique architecture.” Bruce Sloan, San Antonio’s division president for CalAtlantic Homes, Ryland Homes’ parent company, agreed. “Home shoppers have expressed tremendous interest in the unique lifestyle that The Crossvine has to offer,” he said. “Unparalleled community amenities, paired with spacious floor plans designed for the

way families live today, make The Crossvine a wonderful place for home shoppers to find the homes of their dreams.” Both Crossvine phases incorporate a greenbelt system destined to feature more than 12 miles of hike and bike trails. Four pocket parks are completed in the first phase, with three planned for the second. The community’s amenities center already includes an outdoor amphitheater, pool, outdoor-events pavilion and playscape, with a game field and fitness course on the way. Price said Crossvine’s new residents, plus those from the nearby Sedona development, enthusiastically embrace the facilities. “They have been very well-received. The amenities center opened last July, and four pocket parks are up and going,” he said. “We’re going to carry on the same theme with the pocket parks and trail systems throughout Phase 2.” As part of a 400-book endowment, last November The Crossvine donated reading material to Joint Base San AntonioRandolph; custom-designed, hardback copies of “Peter Pan” and “The Secret Garden” to the Schertz Public Library;

CROSSVINE continues on pg. 23

SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM CROSSVINE continues from pg. 22 and paperback versions of those and other books to Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City Independent School District’s Rose Garden Elementary, Corbett Junior High, Jordan Intermediate and Clemens High schools. “These books are an extension of a plan for permanent, freestanding ‘lending-library’ boxes that will be installed throughout The Crossvine community – the first of which will be in place very soon and will be stocked for resident use,” said Kelsey Kemper, a publicist with Austin-based Lookthinkmake advertising agency. “This book giveaway was the first of several planned initiatives to further cultivate long-lasting, valuable interaction between The Crossvine and the surrounding area.” Price credited city officials for their continued assistance. By creating a tax increment reinvestment zone, Crossvine developers initially subsidized area infrastructure improvements in lieu of reimbursements through a TIRZ-repayment fund. The action cleared drainage issues and aided to form green spaces. “Things are going fabulous with the city – they couldn’t be a better partner,” Price said. “They’ve been very supportive.

Like any (project), there are always hiccups you run into, but the city has been very helpful in helping us navigate those issues and find solutions.” Recent voter approval of bond measures to improve 1518 and add a new fire station are also welcomed, Price said. “We were excited to see that come,” he noted. “In talking with the city, it’s something they want to see and are moving on it very quickly.” City Manager John Kessel said firestation construction should begin by 2017 and become operational within three years, adding, Schertz has joined the Texas Department of Transportation in seeking more funds for 1518 improvements. City officials long have touted The Crossvine as a template for future planned communities in Schertz. “It’s set a standard – particularly in regards to open space – and has certainly been an exciting project to watch,” Kessel said. “Home values are much higher than we anticipated, thanks to the trails and other amenities being offered.” Eventually, Crossvine’s residential growth will create an appeal for commercial ventures. “Right now, we’re getting to the point that commercial will be viable in the near

TEXAS VET & VA HOME LOANS www.texas-vet-loans.com • Ranked Number One Texas Vet Loan Officcer in Texas 7 years in a row • All active duty military and Veterans last 7 years in a row • Borrow up to $417,000 (NO Down Paymennt) • VA 30% disabled? Get extra 1/2% off ratee • Want to build on your lot?

No Application Fee! Patrick Fitzzgerald

Residential Mortgage Loan Officer, Military Loan Specialist NMLS #218508 210-215-4400 Office • 2100-862-6296 Mobile 14100 San Pedro Avenue, Ste., 210, San Antonio, TX 78232

“It doesn’t cost a penny to talk, soo call me right now and I will be happy to answer your questions”! • Ranked Number One Texas Vet Loan n Officer in Texas last 7 years in a row w • *Per Texas Veterans Land Board

future,” Price said. “We’re working on a much more detailed master plan to involve commercial development and hope to wrap that up before the end of the year.” “There won’t be any big-box or 100,000-square-foot stores – we want to make sure everything is sized to the neighborhood,” he added. “We’re envisioning neighborhood-oriented, local restaurants, coffeehouses, pharmacies, a day care center and other things like that.” Price said he hopes to “find a commercial developer who understands

(the vision of) what we’re trying to achieve. … If we don’t find anyone who shares that vision, we certainly have the ability to develop it ourselves.” Meanwhile, Price relishes Crossvine’s current course. “We’re just thrilled with the way things are going,” he said. “We’re getting to the point where we really start focusing on a design and master plan that really complements what we’ve been trying to achieve. We think people will see some big changes over the next year.”

Daily Happy Hour! Open 24 Hours! 17196 IH 35 North @ Hwy 3009 | (210) 651-1100

mamamargies.com

Four Paws Inn Training Problem Pet? • Individual One-on-one Ask The Experts training as low as $45/hour,

• Board-N-Train • Group classes • Trainer is flexible wiith schedules

Positive reinforcement techniques Treats and how to use them

210-566-7297

CALL TODAY FOR DETAILS!!! 8815 FM 1976, Converse, Texas 78109 2016. This Information is accurate as of the day of posting, but is subject to change without notice. This is not an offer of extension of credit or a commitment to lend. www.NMLSconsumeraccess.org

www.texas-vet-loans.com • pfitzgerald@guildmortgage.net

www.fourpawsinntx.com staff@fourpawsinntx.com

FEB. 15 - MARCH 21, 2016

BEASTMODE continues from pg. 01

Tristan Heyman, 9 (left), Cameron Vukson, 9, Chase Robinson, 9, Carter Crisp, 10, and coach Hayman bounce around programming ideas as part of the Beastmode team at Watts Elementary School. Photo by Neven Jones

Teamwork helps create problem-solvers, educators say by NEVEN JONES

IBOLO — Creating small robots to inspire big dreams is all in a day’s work for the Watts Elementary School Beastmode Builders.

The robotics students recently powered up by beating 17 other teams and claiming victory in the FIRST LEGO League qualifier at Corbett Junior High School in Schertz. The Beastmode Builders advanced to the FIRST Robotics Competition Alamo Regional at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio March 9-12. “Our LEGO team … students are some of the best achievers that we have,” said Watts Principal Tracey Bandy. “The

ones that participate, they want to keep up good grades and they want to do well in school and then they also step up as leaders in their classroom because of what they are learning through robotics.” Created in 1998 by Dean Kamen, founder of FIRST — For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology — and LEGO group owner Kjeld Kirk Kristiansen, the international LEGO League sponsors competitions that encourage schoolchildren to become problem-solvers in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math, or STEM. Contests use LEGO Mindstorms kits to create robots. Beastmode Builders, a name last year’s team came up with, scored the highest

point total in the Jan. 9 Robot Games at Corbett, said Watts special-education teacher and coach, Autumn Heyman. At meetings, the team of nine fourthgraders divided into two groups — programmers and project designers. Although focusing on their respective areas, each pupil participated in all parts of the competition. “All the team members had a chance to run a mission,” said fourth-grade teacher and coach at Watts, Wendy Dylla. “They all took turns, which is very unusual. For most of the teams, you saw the same kids doing all of the missions whereas we had a big variety,” she added. Trash was this year’s competition theme, meaning youngsters had to

devise a solution to handle refuse as part of the robot’s mission, Dylla said. The process taught students how to aid others. “One of the things the kids honed in on was cardboard,” Dylla said. “Here at school, custodians are throwing away lots of cardboard. So they interviewed them and found out some things about it and wanted to come up with another use for the cardboard.” The team discussed some options before choosing to design portable desks. “We decided that we wanted to help our school and then we decided on the idea of a desk,” said Cameron Vukson. In the competition’s Trash Trek Missions, robots autonomously perform a task — be it pushing, pulling, retrieving or moving something, Heyman said. “It’s just up to the kids to figure out their solution (on) how to do each of these things. It’s kind of neat when you go to competitions because the kids see all the other ideas — how other kids did the exact same mission,” Heyman added. Competition day was split into two basic parts: judging rooms and the Robot Games, Heyman added.

BEASTMODE continues on pg. 25

SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM BEASTMODE continues from pg. 24 Students didn’t know the task ahead of time. More than just robotics was at stake. “One of the categories they grade on is called Gracious Professionalism, and that concept for a 10 year old is hard — that you are going to be gracious to someone else if they’re not working on your idea,” Bandy said. “So, it just teaches them that they really have to be mindful of listening to everyone and learning from each other.” She added, “It’s not always about winning the race; it’s about how you get there, too, and that’s a lesson that’s really hard to teach to young kids these days.” At club meetings, pupils diligently perfected each mission, tackling the toughest aspects first. “‘Truck’ was the first mission we started doing because we thought it was the most challenging and it would give us a lot of points,” Cameron said. The team chronicled the success rate on a whiteboard, he added. “We put a check or an ‘X’ if it made it or not and most of the time it didn’t make it, and then we made different attachments and programmed it differently; then it

started making more,” Cameron said. The school’s robotics club includes some third-graders, but they don't compete. Their coach is special-education teacher Jamie York. The younger set worked on programming tasks using websites, Dylla said. Jasmine Williams, 9, didn’t have any interest in a robotics club in third grade because she thought it was just “normal LEGOs,” she said. However, interest piqued this year when she saw a flyer detailing the team would be programming robots, she added. The club started last year after a parent from Randolph Air Force Base contacted the military installation’s STEM outreach program, thereby securing a grant funded by the National Defense Education Program, Bandy said. Randolph is now sponsoring another team at Cibolo Elementary, which also belongs to the Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City Independent School District. The team begins competing next year, Bandy added. The program has been great for students who haven’t found their niche yet, because now they have something after school challenging them, she said. For more, visit http:// www.firstinspires.org.

WHY NOT TODAY! Get Healthy, Lose Weight, Get Ripped, Boost Energy,

Earn Extra Cash!!! Try my 3-Day Trial & Athletic Line

annettemoore02@gmail.com

210-848-8012

ABOUT FACE NUTRITION

420 Schertz Parkway, Schertz, Tx (Tues., Fri., Sat., Sun. 09:00-5:00)

SPORTSMAN’S BAR

OPEN MONDAY – SATURDAY NOON - 2AM | SUNDAY - NOON - 10PM

Monthly And Daily Drink & Shot Specials

Eleven f 55” Hi-de Screens!

PreSchool Registration for the 2016-2017 School Year is March 2, 9:00am – 12 noon in the church Fellowship Hall, and will continue thereaftfter t 9:00am - 12 noon in the Preschool Offffice f until classes are full. Triumphant Lutheran offffers f a licensed Christian Preschool for 3 to 5 year olds. Our goal is to provide a safe and exciting learning environment for your child while preparing them for Kindergarten. Enrollment paperwork is on our web site.

Mother’s Day Out Registration for the 2016 Summer Session will begin on Monday, April 4, in Heimer Hall, and continue through the month of May. Registration for the Mother’s Day Out 2016-2017 school year will begin on Monday, April 4, and continue through the month of August. We accept ages 6 weeks to 4 years.

For more information visit our website at

www.triumphantlutheran.org or call 210-651-9090.

21315 Bat Cave Rd. Garden Ridge 78266 SATURDAY WORSHIP 5:00pm Casual Service

SUNDAY WORSHIP

8:30am Traditional Service 11:00am Contemporary Service

Pool, Darts, Karaoke and NFL Sunday Ticket Package

visit our website for event details and dates

• UFC FIGHTS • Play Tap TV Trivia on your I-Phone or Android • NFL, SPURS, NBA, COLLEGE FOOTBALL, PLAYOFFS • The only Sports bar in Converse • Near Randolph AFB and San Antonio! • Poker Every Tuesday, Friday and Saturday 7p & 10p • Pool tables and Darts

PRESCHOOL:

9204 FM 78

MOTHER’S DAY OUT

210-281-8629

WEDNESDAY 6:30 Youth Christian Education Monday-Friday 9:00am-2:00pm Monday & Wednesday 9:00am-2:00pm

(1/4 mile inside Loop 1604)

NOW SERV ING: FULL THR OTTL S’LO E ONSH INE

Military Discounts

(retired or active) sportsmansbar@satx.rr.com www.sportsmanstx.com

Accepting Applications for quality Bartenders and bar backs.

FEB. 15 - MARCH 21, 2016

BUY LOCAL

Dr. Dima Kalakech (far left), owner of Embrace Orthodontics, believes that embracing life means embracing your smile. The clinic (left) creates a warm and welcoming environment and offers a wide assortment of treatments, staffers said. Photos by Collette Orquiz

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

Embrace your smile at new orthodontic clinic by ERIC MORENO

IBOLO — The goal of the staff at the recently opened Embrace Orthodontics is to create beautiful, healthy smiles that patients value for a lifetime, said Dr. Dima Kalakech, the owner. “I named the office Embrace Orthodontics based on my strong belief that embracing life starts by embracing your smile,” said Kalakech, who has been in the field more than a decade. “My team and I are looking forward to giving you something to smile about.” The clinic is at 791 FM 1103, Suite 113 in the Cibolo Marketplace shopping center. It offers customized care for children,

teens and adults, with a wide assortment of orthodontic treatments ranging from traditional and metal braces or clear and ceramic braces, as well as Invisalign and Invisalign Teen. To make patrons more comfortable, Embrace Orthodontics uses the iTero Element Interoral Scanner instead of taking traditional teeth impressions. “Our motto here is embrace your smile, embrace your life,” Kalakech said. “What we really enjoy is having our office here in Cibolo. It allows us to be a part of a great community and our patients feel like family.” She is a specialist in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics.

“My staff and I strongly believe that an early evaluation and possible intervention for children at age 7 and up can favorably influence a child’s jaw development, and guide teeth to desirable positions,” Kalakech said. “That is something we really believe in and is very important to us.” Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, as well as one Saturday each month by appointment only.

EMBRACE ORTHODONTICS 791 FM 1103, Suite 113 in Cibolo For more, call 253-2424 or visit www.myembraceorthodontics.com

A TENTION

im e o t R a y or Sp ing

Did you know know that thatt proper care and pruning off your rees can help increase heir li e and keep your home safe saffe from from damage? Call he xper s att Teague’s Tree Service or a R E s ima e.

• Trimming • Removal • Demossing • Hauling • Stump Grinding • Lot Clearing • Lot Shredding • 24 Hour Emergency Service • Licensed and Insured

TEAGUE’S TREE SERVICE

20% OFF! Call the friendly professionals at Teague’s Tree Service and receive 20% off your tree service. Offer Expires 3-15-2016 Call 210-658-4765.

TEAGUE’S TREE SERVICE

210-658-4765

v r 15 Y a s in Busin s! A Na e You an u . all or a , No Oblig ion i .

Spring Sports Registration Ends March 25, sign-up early for the best prices! • Volleyball (co-ed) ages 5 - 13 • Soccer (co-ed) ages 2 - 12 Register online or in person today!

SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM

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

Roxy moves to new spot on Pat Booker Road by OLIVIER J. BOURGOIN

NIVERSAL CITY — Roxy Sports Bar & Grill, long considered a classic but unpretentious watering hole, has moved to new digs at 2801 Pat Booker Road.

The new Roxy, opened in midJanuary, relocated from its former site of five years at Loop 1604 and Kitty Hawk Road. The bar replaces Felix’s Restaurant, with the site completely remodeled. Jamila Khalife, whose family has been in the sports-bar business for a while, said they also own another Roxy at Ingram and Wurzbach roads;

it has been there for 16 years. “We gutted everything and everything is brand-new,” said Khalife about the Pat Booker Road iteration. The kitchen is planning to open within a few weeks, she added. “Our menu has not been finalized yet,” Khalife said during a recent telephone interview, “but we will have basic bar food, appetizers (and) a typical sports-bar menu including some great burgers and pizza.” The roughly 5,000-square-foot space employs six bartenders and four doormen. There’s room for about 100 customers, and 17 big-screen televisions provide oodles of sporting-event entertainment. Bartender Lisa Amaya has worked with Khalife for five years. Being the only barkeep during a recent weeknight visit,

Amaya kept plenty busy attending to the dozen patrons playing darts or pool. Several other skill games such as Hooks and Rings, Jenga and Connect 4 are available, and the patio includes two oversized couches. “We offer 30 different beers on tap,” Amaya said. “We have all the usual main brands, but also some interesting craft beers.” If you’re in the mood for a cocktail, try a Roxy Tini, a raspberryflavored pomegranate martini. The bar is open 2 p.m. to 2 a.m. daily.

Roxy Sports Bar & Grill has relocated to 2801 Pat Booker Road in Universal City, after moving in January from its spot of five years at Kitty Hawk Road and Loop 1604. Residents may remember Felix’s Restaurant was formerly at the Pat Booker Road site. Photo by Collette Orquiz

ROXY SPORTS BAR & GRILL 2801 Pat Booker Road in Universal City For more, call 267-2747 or visit facebook.com/roxysportsbar

24 on Tap

58 Flavors FULL BAR

BIG SCREEN TVS

Our Motto is “Fresh. Family. Fun” WEEKDAY SPECIALS! 8251 Agora Parkway Selma

The Forum at Olympia Parkway | 210-251-2834 EastCoastWings.com/locations/selmatx

Present this ad and receive 10% off. Can not be combined with any other promotions or specials. Excludes Alcohol.

THE BEST KEPT SECRET IN SAN ANTONIO.

FREE

Purchase One Entrée at regular menu price and Receive a 2nd Entrée at 1/2 price. Complimentary. One discount per table. Expires 3/31/16 Not valid with any other promotional offers.

27315 FM 3009, San Antonio, Texas 78266 | 830-980-8033 www.OakValleyVineyardsRestaurant.com

*****ECR WSS Postal Customer

Prsrt Std US Postage Paid Permit 6450 San Antonio TX

COMMUNITY NEWS

4204 GARDENDALE STE. 201 SAN ANTONIO, TX 78229