LOCAL: Metrocom January 2017

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL JAN. 16 - FEB. 13, 2017

BUY LOCAL

EAT LOCAL

VOL. 4, ISSUE 7

PG. 23

SMOOTHIE KING Selections blended to order at Live Oak location

PG. 22

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New owners offer eats, drinks and plenty of practice on your swing

BRACKEN

CIBOLO

COMMUNITY NEWS

CONVERSE

GARDEN RIDGE

LIVE OAK

WWW.LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM

GARDEN RIDGE

City officials keep up deer trapping, processing PG. 14 Some residents criticize policy

RESIDENTS’ GROUP HELPING LIVE OAK OFFICERS

PG. 18 Live Oak Citizens Assisting Police hold fundraisers, conduct patrols and raise community awareness

SCHERTZ

SELMA

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CONVERSE BUILDING NEW FIRE STATION PG. 16 Location on west side of city will improve response times, according to city leaders

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LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM

FROM THE EDITOR tedwards@localcommunitynews.com

LOCAL’s new website debuts

L

OCAL Community News has launched its new website.

Readers visiting www. localcommunitynews.com will find the latest hyperlocal coverage of area neighborhoods, schools, government and events.

During the last four years, LOCAL has experimented with a variety of website options, including online flip-books.

At the same time, our audience kept asking, “When are you going to have a searchable news website?”

Well, the time has come.

We created LOCAL’s monthly print editions to fill a gap in community news, and our objective has not changed. The newspapers remain our core product.

Our website, however, allows us to expand and enhance the coverage that matters most to our audience.

There are several advantages to the website. Because of the staggered print deadlines, many calendar submissions go by the wayside. Now, there will be a forum to post these releases in a more timely fashion online.

The site also makes it easier for readers to search out stories that appeared in print.

The site is conveniently arranged by ZIP codes.

We hope readers will enjoy our latest information conduit. Please visit the site and send your feedback to tedwards@localcommunitynews.com.

THOMAS EDWARDS EXECUTIVE EDITOR ON THE COVER Live Oak Citizens Assisting Police members (front left, clockwise) Mark Cymbalist, Tom Kensey, Bonnie Tullgren, Marie Atkinson, Ed Cimics, Gary Woppert, Sandee Donnelly and Janita Woodall help wrap and decorate gifts donated for a recent Blue Santa event, where police give presents to the less fortunate. See story on page 18. Photo by Collette Orquiz

President Harold J. Lees

Publisher Gregg Rosenfield

Assoc. Publisher Rick Upton

Director of Operations Jaselle Luna

EDITORIAL Executive Editor Thomas Edwards News Staff Collette Orquiz and Bain Serna Contributing Writers Edmond Ortiz, Arthur Schechter and Susan Yerkes ART Creative Director Florence D. Edwards ADVERTISING Account Manager Dawn Radick Controller Gracie Cortinez READER SERVICE Mailing Address 4204 Gardendale St., Ste. 201 San Antonio, TX 78229 Phone Fax (210) 338.8842 (210) 616.9677 Advertising Inquiries dradick@localcommunitynews.com Story Ideas tips@localcommunitynews.com Website www.localcommunitynews.com LOCAL Community News publications Zone 1: 78204, 78205, 78209, 78210, 78212, 78215 Zone 2/3: 78213, 78216, 78230, 78231,

78232, 78248, 78249 Zone 6: 78258, 78259, 78260, 78261 Zone 7: 78015, 78023, 78255, 78256, 78257 For advertising, customer service or editorial, please call us at 210-338-8842 or write to us at: Local Community News 4204 Gardendale St., Ste. 201 San Antonio, TX 78229 Reproduction in whole or in part without our permission is prohibited, 2017 Helen Publishing LLC and Local Community News LLC, all rights reserved.

4

JAN. 16 - FEB. 13, 2017

LOCAL COMMENTARY

Good medicine for all

by SUSAN YERKES

I

’ve always found it interesting that two of this area’s biggest economic generators are the military medical establishment and the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio.

With thousands of military and civilian contract employees and a budget in the billions, military health is a powerful part of the economy.

There’s a long history of collaboration between UTHSCSA and the military medical folks. However, the

relationship recently took a huge leap forward with UTHSCSA’s creation of the Military Health Institute.

The idea came from Dr. Bill Henrich, health-science center president.

“Ask any San Antonian what is unique about the city and I would guess the military here would be one of the answers,” Henrich said. “As president here, I’ve seen a number of successful projects with the military, and a big portion of our teaching involves care of veterans and staffing the (Veterans Affairs medical facilities), but we still weren’t taking full advantage of all the opportunities to collaborate for the benefit of the military, the university and the wider community. The institute was intended to do that.”

Dr. Byron Hepburn, former commander of the 59th Medical Wing at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland and a one-time deputy surgeon general of the Air Force, heads the institute, which opened in late 2014. He is the perfect person to create the kind of collaborative incubator Henrich had in mind.

“We have a unique interface with VA and the Department of Defense, with the huge military presence, and the amount of research and teaching. Also, the fact the VA is co-located with us, and our faculty is doing most (of) all the research at the VA,” Hepburn said.

The focus is to fast-forward research in military medicine at these institutions through partnerships, and the Military Health Institute is working with the other such facilities, as well as with the entire UT System.

Current projects include major research on post-traumatic stress disorder, a study of new pain relief for burns, work on long-term outcomes of vascular-extremity injuries, care of gastrointestinal injuries, new indicators of traumatic brain injury and research in how best to help family caregivers deal with PTSD. While these endeavors are geared to the needs of servicemen and servicewomen, the results can improve care for everyone.

“There are layers of goodness,”

Hepburn said. “Research done for the military also has direct applicability to all humans, from a burned child to the victim of a motorcycle crash.”

The institute’s networking function is also connecting researchers inside and outside the armed forces to coordinate studies and jump-start pilot projects, Hepburn said. After just two years, the results are impressive.

In 2016, total funding UTHSCSA received for DOD-related projects increased nearly 45 percent, from $8.5 million in 2015 to about $12.3 million.

When I asked Henrich about how much he envisions the institute growing, he said, “The sky’s the limit.”

The Military Health Institute is a great way for a lot of smart folks to work together doing important things. It’s good news for UTHSCSA, for veterans and for active-duty personnel. It’s good news for the South Texas economy.

Most important, it’s good news for medical research, and for all of us living here in Military City, USA, and beyond. syerkes@localcommunitynews.com

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LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM

OUR TURN Views and opinions about your community

Considering vouchers

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awmakers of the 85th Legislature should continue pushing for initiatives that ease the financial burden on parents wanting choices about where their kids attend school.

Efforts to use taxpayer dollars — or vouchers — allowing guardians to enroll their offspring in private or parochial institutions failed during the last session.

Many public-school educators decry vouchers. They fear taking public monies away from their districts hurts students and undermines the overall performance of Texas’ tax-supported institutions.

On the other hand, parents fed up with schools that fail pupils should have a right to decide how and where

their hard-earned dollars are spent to pay for their children’s education.

Just like in a free market, the competition could help improve public schools.

Proponents also argue vouchers are a mechanism to lift low-income students out of underperforming institutions and place them in a better learning environment.

Initiatives in 2017 include giving tax credits to companies donating funds to poor or special-needs students, so they can afford tuition at private or parochial schools.

Another option could be the education savings account, which funnels taxpayer dollars to parents as a debit card to pay for schooling other than public. In the end, parents have a right to seek the best education possible for their youngsters, while also being able to decide how to pay for it.

A New Year, A New You! Leigha M. Nielsen, OD

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

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877-524-8717 | MeritageHomes.com/SanAntonio Any floorplan and/or elevation rendering is an artist’s conceptual rendering intended to provide a general overview, but any such rendering does not constitute actual plans and specifications for any home. Renderings and pictures are representative and may depict floorplans, elevations, options, upgrades, landscaping, and other features and amenities that are not included as part of all homes and/or may not be available for all lots and/or in all communities. Renderings may not be drawn to scale. Any provided dimensions are approximate and actual dimensions may vary. Homes may be constructed with a floorplan that is the reverse of the floorplan rendering. Plans are copyrighted and/or otherwise subject to intellectual property rights of Meritage and/or others and cannot be reproduced or copied without Meritage’s prior written consent. Plans and specifications, home features, and community information are subject to change, and homes to prior sale, at any time without notice or obligation. Additionally, deviations and variations may exist in any constructed home, including, without limitation: (i) substitution of materials and equipment of substantially equal or better quality; (ii) minor style, lot orientation, and color changes; (iii) minor variances in square footage and in room and space dimensions, and in window, door, utility outlet, and other improvement locations; (iv) changes as may be required by any state, federal, county, or local governmental authority in order to accommodate requested selections and/or options; and (v) value engineering and field changes. The images for the three communities can be found in the file path below. 01.01.2017

6

JAN. 16 - FEB. 13, 2017

HAPPENING LOCAL

7-9 p.m. For more, visit www.asrda.org.

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

OUR GUIDE TO YOUR MONTH

HAPPENING KEY

FITNESS

ART

CONVERSE CITY COUNCIL The council regularly meets the first and third Tuesday of each month from 7-10 p.m. in City Council Chambers, 402 S. Seguin Road. For more and to confirm dates and times, visit www.conversetx.net.

JAN. 16 & FEB. 6

HOW GREEN IS YOUR GARDEN? Guadalupe County 19 Master Gardeners will hold a monthly meeting in the Guadalupe County AgriLife Extension Building, 210 E. Live Oak St. in Seguin. Social time is at 6:30 p.m., followed by a speaker at 7 p.m. (Liz Romero on shade plants) and an 8 p.m. business meeting. Everyone is welcome.

JAN.

LEARN FROM GARDEN RIDGE City residents can JAN. 24 POLICE attend the 2017 Citizens Police Academy. For 10 consecutive Tuesdays from 6-9 p.m. (except March 14), classes will provide insight on how the police force operates. For more including applications and event location, visit www.grcpaaa.com or call 651-6441.

BEGINNING

EVENT

OUTDOOR

MUSIC

FOOD

For more, visit guadalupe.agrilife.org.

MOMS’ COFFEE AND CONVERSATION Visit Morgan’s Wonderland, 5223 David Edwards Drive in San Antonio, where mothers and tykes gather the first and third Friday of every month from 9-10 a.m. at The Wharf. Price is $17 for moms; free for children ages 3-11. For more, call 495-5888 or go to www.morganswonderland.com.

JAN. 20 & FEB. 3

SWING YOUR PARTNER JAN. 22, 29 Most Sundays, boogie with & FEB. 12 FunDancers’ Square and Line Dance Club at Community Center North, 4923 Morning Drive in Schertz, from

SCHERTZ CITY COUNCIL The council regularly meets on the first, second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. in the Hal Baldwin Municipal Complex Council Chambers, 1400 Schertz Parkway, Building No. 4. For more and to confirm dates and times, visit schertz.com.

JAN. 24 & FEB. 7, 14

SCHERTZ-CIBOLO LIONS CLUB The group meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month from noon to 1 p.m.

JAN. 25 & FEB. 8

HAPPENING continues on pg. 07

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LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM HAPPENING continues from pg. 06 at the Schertz Family YMCA, 621 Westchester Drive. Admission is free; bring lunch, if you wish. Newcomers are welcome. For more, visit http://www.eclubhouse.org/sites/schertzcibolo/.

DINNER IS SERVED American Legion Missing 27 Man Post No. 667, 504 Bowie Drive in Universal City, serves chicken-fried steak from 5-7 p.m. on the fourth Friday of each month. Plates cost $8. Free parking is available. For more, call 658-3731.

JAN.

RUNNING FOR A CAUSE Morgan’s Wonderland, 28 5223 David Edwards Drive in San Antonio, at 9 a.m. hosts the fourth annual 5K Snowball Run/Walk and Accessible 1K event. Proceeds benefit the amusement park’s adaptive, physical-education equipment and more. For details including registration costs, visit www.athleteguild.com.

JAN.

LIVE OAK CITY COUNCIL The elected leaders regularly gather at 7 p.m. on the second and last Tuesday of each month in Live Oak City Hall, 8001 Shin Oak Drive. Everyone is welcome.

For more and to confirm dates and times, call 653-9140, ext. 21.

JAN. 31 & FEB. 14

Free Bundtlet when you purchase a Bundtlet THE FORUM

CHAMBER EVENTS The JANUARY Chamber (Schertz-CiboloSelma area) has the following activities. For more, call 619-1950 or visit www.thechamber.info. “Race to the Taste” tickets are on sale beginning Jan. 16. Go to Chamber offices, 1730 Schertz Parkway, for purchases to the annual festivities set for March 2 at Retama Park in Selma. The event features 40-plus food and beverage vendors. Admission is $20 for adults; seniors (60-plus), military and children pay $15; free for kids 2 and under.

For more, visit www.theracetothetaste. com. The year’s first Chamber luncheon, featuring the annual State of the Chamber

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HAPPENING continues from pg. 07 Address reviewing 2016 programs and goals for 2017, is 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Jan. 17 at Schertz Civic Center, 1400 Schertz Parkway. Cost is $28. The Chamber’s Jan. 19 mixer is 5:30-7 p.m. at TruCare Living Center, 16550 Retama Parkway in Selma.

Admission, featuring networking, food, refreshments and Chamber Cash Drawing, is $10; free for members. Jan. 25 is the first Biz Ed seminar and networking breakfast of 2017. Mike Weddington, president and CEO of MW Consulting Group and a former Green Bay Packer, will discuss how to build a culture of excellence. Session will be at Crosspoint Fellowship Church, 2600 Roy Richard Drive in Schertz, from 7:30 a.m. to noon. Free for members; nonmembers pay $30. Stop by the Chamber offices 7:30-9:30 a.m. Jan. 27 for a free cup of coffee courtesy of Cibolo Coffee Haus. The fifth annual Baptist Emergency Hospital/Chamber Health and Wholeness Fair is 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Jan. 28 at Schertz Civic Center with more than 70 vendors.

Receive flu shots, vision, hearing and

JAN. 16 - FEB. 13, 2017 health screenings at no cost. Admission and parking are free, too. The Chamber’s Toastmasters convene at 6:45 p.m. each Monday at Comfort Inn & Suites’ meeting room, 5571 Interstate 35 North in Selma.

TRI-COUNTY CHAMBER JAN./FEB. EVENTS Texas Tri-County Chamber of Commerce, cultivating business alliances across Bexar, Comal and Guadalupe counties, has several events. For details, including membership and event information, visit www.txtricountychamber.org or call Lisa Jubela at 830-305-6926.

SCHOOL BOARD MEETINGS JAN./FEB. Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City Independent School District trustees meet Jan. 17 at 6 p.m. in the boardroom at 1060 Elbel Road in Schertz.

The public is invited. For more, visit www. scuc.txed.net. Judson Independent School District trustees gather at 7 p.m. Jan. 19 in the ERC boardroom, 8205 Palisades Drive in Live Oak. For more, visit www. judsonisd.org. North East Independent

School District trustees assemble at 5:30 p.m. Feb. 13 at 8961 Tesoro Drive in San Antonio. To confirm dates and times, call 407-0533. Comal Independent School District trustees convene at 6 p.m. Jan. 26 in the Support Services boardroom, 1404 Interstate 35 North in New Braunfels.

For more, visit www.comalisd.org.

ST. PAUL’S CHURCH SUPPER During the first Wednesday 1 of each month, St. Paul Evangelical Church, 108 S. Main St. in Cibolo, hosts a free dinner from 6-7:30 p.m. For more, call 658-5874.

FEB.

GO WILD FOR SUPPER Garden Ridge’s 10th annual 4 Wild Game Dinner takes place at 5 p.m. in the Garden Ridge Community Center, 9400 Municipal Parkway. There will be a raffle, live auction and other prizes, too. Cost is $50 per person. For more including tickets and sponsorships, visit www.gardenridgewildgame.com.

FEB.

HAPPENING continues on pg. 09

Douglas Jennings C&J cabinets did a partial remodel to my kitchen. New cabinets were designed and built to match my current cabinets. The job turned out perfect, all employees were professional and communication was superb! I have told many of my friends about them and will continue with the referrals.

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LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM HAPPENING continues from pg. 08 INTERNATIONAL RUGBY MATCH Get a rare opportunity 4 to see high-level men’s rugby when Toyota Field, 5106 David Edwards Drive in San Antonio, hosts a competition between Team USA and Uruguay at 3 p.m. To purchase tickets and more, visit www.usarugby.org/.

FEB.

OFF AND RUNNING Natural Bridge Caverns Trail Runs, a 5 5K, 10K and half-marathon event, starts at 7:30 a.m. from 26495 Natural Bridge Caverns Road near Garden Ridge. For more including registration costs, visit www.athleteguild.com.

FEB.

CIBOLO GRANGE 1541 MEETING The first Sunday of 5 the month, adult members gather at Grange Hall, 413 N. Main St. in Cibolo, for socializing at 2:30 p.m., and a 3 p.m. business discussion.

Newcomers welcome. For more, visit www.grange.org/cibolotx1541/31-2/.

FEB.

SELMA CITY COUNCIL The council meets on the 9 second Thursday of the month at 6:30 p.m., 9375 Corporate Drive. For more and to confirm dates and times, visit www.ci.selma.tx.us.

FEB.

WORSHIP SERVICE Triumphant Church, 21315 11-12 Lutheran Bat Cave Road in Garden Ridge, conducts a “Western Weekend” at 5 p.m. Feb. 11, plus 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. Feb. 12 when there will be a free breakfast served between “western-style services.” Everyone is welcome. For more, visit www.triumphantlutheran.org.

FEB.

MORNING MEAL American FEB. Legion Missing Man Post 12 No. 667, 504 Bowie Drive in Universal City, hosts “Second Sunday” each month from 8-11:30 a.m. Breakfast buffets cost $7 for adults, $3 for children 4-10, free for younger kids. Free parking available. For more, call 658-3731.

HAPPENING continues on pg. 20

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JAN. 16 - FEB. 13, 2017

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

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1. ROLLING OAKS GOLF RANGE AND RESTAURANT, 5550 Mountain Vista

Drive, is under new ownership and newly remodeled. Hit some golf balls, enjoy a meal and drinks, plus catch live, weekend entertainment. Driving-range hours are 1-11 p.m. Monday; 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Tuesday through Thursday; 9 a.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday; and 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday. Restaurant hours are 4-11 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to midnight, with bar open until 2 a.m. Friday and Saturday; and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday. For more, call 655-4653 or visit rollingoakssa.com or facebook.com/ RollingOaksSA/. (See story on page 22)

2. SMOOTHIE KING, 7939 Pat Booker Road in Live Oak, offers “smoothies

Address of local business Name of local business

with a purpose,” enhancers, snacks, supplements and catering. The New Orleans-based shop, created in 1973, has more than 775 stores worldwide. Hours are 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. weekdays, 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Sunday. For more, call 776-7666 or visit smoothieking.com. (See story on page 23)

3. URBAN AIR TRAMPOLINE PARK, 8600

Fourwinds Drive, Suite 8510A in Windcrest, dubbed the “nation’s premier indoor trampoline and adventure parks,” according to its website, offers a variety of activities including wall-to-wall trampolines, a foam pit, trampoline dodge ball, a runway, a warrior obstacle course and more. The site

LOWDOWN continues on pg. 12

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RESULTS ARE IN FOR LIGHT UP CONVERSE COMPETITION. For businesses, McDonald’s, 9151 FM 78; Kashi Dental, 9163 FM 78; and Little Scholars Tutoring, 339 S. Seguin Road, finished first through third, respectively. For residences, the winners in order are 10308 Windburn Trail, 8595 Brucks Drive, and 8310 Copperside St. THE CHAMBER, A COMMERCE ORGANIZATION SERVING THE SCHERTZ, CIBOLO AND SELMA AREAS, recently welcomed two new members — Founders Classical Academy of Schertz, 8453 E. FM 1518 North and GNC, 513 Cibolo Valley Drive, Suite 131 in Cibolo.

MORE THAN 90 GOLFERS PARTICIPATED IN THE RECENT SIXTH ANNUAL HAL BALDWIN Scholarship Golf Tournament in Schertz. First place went to Blue Bonnet Palace, second to Schertz Bank & Trust, and third to McCreary, Veselka, Bragg & Allen, P.C. To date, over $20,000 has been awarded to high school seniors and their higher-education needs. The scholarship honors Hal Baldwin, who served the city for more than 30 years as a civic volunteer, employee, council member and mayor.

GUADALUPE VALLEY ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE recently awarded a $20,000 Power Up grant to Schertz. The funding will pay for installation of public restrooms at the Community Playscape.

Project completion is slated for summer 2017. With the addition of the bathroom facilities at the Community Playscape, the vision for the complex will be realized and provide a much-needed amenity as visitation has increased, city officials said.

VACANCIES EXIST ON SCHERTZ VOLUNTEER BOARDS. As of press time, they include: Board of Adjustments — alternate member No. 2; Economic Development Corp. — regular member;

LOWDOWN continues on pg. 13

WEDDING & EVENTS CENTER

13

LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM LOWDOWN continues from pg. 12 Parks and Recreation Advisory Board — two regular members, two alternates; Schertz Historical Preservation Committee — regular member; Transportation Safety Advisory Commission — regular member and two alternates; and Planning & Zoning Commission — regular member.

For more, visit schertz.com or call the city secretary’s office at 619-1030.

ELI HOAG, A 3-YEAR-OLD DIAGNOSED WITH LEUKEMIA, BECAME THE SCHERTZ POLICE DEPARTMENT’S youngest officer.

Sgt. John Eisen and Officer Helen Lafitte recently visited Eli’s home to swear him in and present the boy with the same sleeve patch worn by the police force. Eli is now a Schertz Junior Peace Officer and part of the “Police Department family,” officials said.

RANDOLPH-BROOKS FEDERAL CREDIT UNION co-hosted Live Oak’s Fall Community Shred Day along with Mayor Mary Dennis, Councilman Ed Cimics and city firefighters. A total of 14,250 pounds

of paper was recycled. By shredding and recycling, Live Oak and RBFCU received an environmental award and saved an estimated 102 trees and 42,000 gallons of water, while also reducing the need for 18 cubic yards of landfill or 12 barrels of oil.

The Holiday Food Basket program also received 359 items during the event.

WANT TO BE A LIFEGUARD AT THE LIVE OAK POOL THIS SPRING? The city will reimburse up to $200 for those interested in obtaining their American Red Cross Lifeguarding Certification, as long as they successfully complete the hiring and employment process. A list of classes is available at redcross.org. For more, contact Courtney Weese at 653-9140, ext. 235.

CONGRESSMAN HENRY CUELLAR, a Democrat representing Texas’ 28th congressional district, recently met at Northeast Lakeview College to speak with reporters on topics including border security, the Cross-Border Trade Enhancement Act of 2016, the state legislative session and other issues.

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GARDEN RIDGE continues from pg. 01

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ARDEN RIDGE — The city is continuing efforts to reduce the local deer population by trapping the animals for processing as a food source.

While town officials and many residents feel it’s the most effective way to manage the herd, other homeowners appeared at a Dec. 7 City Council meeting to criticize elected leaders, believing deer were instead being relocated.

Nevertheless, council voted 4-1 to maintain the program, which results in the culling of the herbivores. Next up is another count of the herd, coupled

JAN. 16 - FEB. 13, 2017 with a public-education process.

“From a public-health issue standpoint, it’s something the city has to be involved in.

It’s also something that needs support of the community,” said Mayor Nadine Knaus.

The Texas Parks & Wildlife Department has been working with Garden Ridge to find ways to reduce the herd, estimated at more than 1,500 by summer 2016.

The number far exceeds what is manageable for the community.

Local officials and TPWD fear an oversized herd raises the risks of vehicle-deer collisions, and human interaction with aggressive deer.

Chances of spreading ticks carrying Lyme disease and chronic wasting disease also increase, according to state biologists.

In December 2015, the city passed an ordinance prohibiting deer feeding.

Other public discussions revolved around strategies such as birth control, and trapping and relocation. Residents were surveyed about preferred policies.

“Processing was, at least for us, our third option,” Place 1 Councilman John McCaw said.

McCaw added the city felt there were problems with the sterilization proposal.

Regarding trapping and relocating deer, city officials discovered many of the animals end up in places where they are hunted later.

Knaus said Garden Ridge had to act as the city has been removing an average of 300 deer carcasses per year, the result of collisions with cars.

“We know deer make Garden Ridge what it is today, but when they were dying at that rate, we reached out to (TPWD),” Knaus said.

In early 2016, the city heeded a TPWD recommendation to get a trap and process permit, which allowed Garden Ridge to begin removing up to 300 deer.

McCaw voted to continue the trap and process program, where professionals pitch nets in select spots. Signs posted in those areas warn people to be cautious.

After processing, the venison is distributed to area food banks and church-run pantries.

GARDEN RIDGE continues on pg. 15

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LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM GARDEN RIDGE continues from pg. 14 Some residents attending the December meeting weren’t aware of the city program.

Others said deer add to Garden Ridge’s charm and appeal. Critics also used social media to chide local leaders.

McCaw and Place 4 Councilman Todd Arvidson said misinformation and rumors have circulated in Garden Ridge regarding the situation.

“Most of the people who did speak (Dec. 7) didn’t come to prior meetings concerning the deer — meetings that were publicized in different ways,” McCaw added.

Resident Kenneth Kneupper, who backs the current culling program, agreed with McCaw. “None of the people there had the audacity to say anything about it before,” he said.

Indeed, since late 2014, Garden Ridge’s intentions regarding deer management have been addressed via The Grapevine, its city newsletter, as well as in council sessions and its website.

“The process has been open,” said

Arvidson, who cast the lone dissenting vote Dec. 7 to encourage more resident participation in deer-management talks.

“Let’s have an adult discussion that’s fact-based and fact-driven,” he added.

McCaw and Arvidson see the animals as an integral part of the community. However, some folks underestimate the dangers such wildlife pose, including disease and even biting humans, McCaw said.

“Some people have unrealistic ideas about deer. They’ve got to learn to be careful,” he added.

Kneupper said the city’s goal isn’t zero deer; it’s only trying to manage the herd effectively.

“What’s more humane — trapping and processing or their being hit by a car and letting them limp away into the woods where they spend a day or two or weeks before dying?” he asked.

Another herd count comes in February.

The following month, the city’s current trapping/process permit expires.

Knaus said Garden Ridge would keep educating the public and re-evaluating options.

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JAN. 16 - FEB. 13, 2017

CONVERSE continues from pg. 01

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ONVERSE – A state-of-theart facility will soon replace Converse Fire Station No. 1, creating better response times in the burgeoning city, officials said.

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Mayor: More growth points to need for facility

The latest iteration, costing $3 million and approved by voters in a November 2015 bond election, will be in the 700 block of Toepperwein Road. A groundbreaking took place in mid-December. The current firehouse is at 107 Station St. “With Fire Station No. 1 relocating to the west side of the railroad tracks, the Converse Fire Department will be able to reduce response times to this growing area

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of Converse,” said Christine Pollok from the Converse Economic Development Corp.

Officials said the nascent structure creates more room for firefighters and prevents delays when first responders have to wait for trains to pass.

Construction could start in January or February, with an opening in 2018.

Mayor Al Suarez said the anticipated facility affirms the city’s commitment to protect residents and visitors.

“Public safety is our primary concern,” Suarez said. “With the replacement of Fire Station No. 1, the Converse Fire Department will have a new state-of-the-art facility and the quality tools needed to provide the best fire and (Emergency Medical Services) possible for all the citizens of Converse.”

Firehouse improvements help the

city keep a favorable Insurance Services Office Inc. ranking, the mayor added.

According to the State Fire Marshal’s Office, “ISO classifies communities from 1 (the best) to 10 (the worst) based on how well they score on the ISO Fire Suppression Rating Schedule, which grades such features as water distribution, fire-department equipment and manpower and fire-alarm facilities.”

According to Suarez, “It is my opinion, after serving as mayor for the past 10 years, that the Converse Fire Department, with two operating fire stations and an ISO rating of 2, are able to provide the best fire and EMS services second to none. The end result of outstanding fire, EMS and

GARDEN RIDGE continues on pg. 17

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LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM CONVERSE continues from pg. 16 police services is the explosive growth that we are currently experiencing here.”

Station No. 2 is located off Schaefer Road across from Judson Middle School at 8425 Thornton Lane.

The current No. 1 dates to the early 1960s. The next-generation 15,000-squarefoot, single-story edifice will have 10 dorm rooms, better bathrooms, administrative offices, a training area and a workout room, officials said.

“The new fire station will not only be able to meet the current CFD needs, but is also designed to be able to grow with the city and accommodate more firstresponder personnel as needed,” Pollok said. “The relocation to the west side of the railroad tracks will improve station coverage ratios and decrease overlap between Fire Station No. 1 and No. 2.”

Pollok believes shrinking emergencyresponse times will benefit residential and commercial development.

“When the city of Converse is willing to invest in its own improvements,

people take notice,” she said. “The Converse City Council, city staff and the Converse EDC are all committed to improving the lives of residents and promoting business development.”

Fire Chief Richard Wendt said there are many advantages associated with the new firehouse.

“It gets us on the other side of the railroad tracks,” the chief said. “As of right now, both our fire stations are on the same side of the tracks, so if there’s a train it can delay us, and there’s a few trains that come through here every day.”

He added, “Secondly, over the years as Converse grows, so does the Fire Department. We’ve pretty much outgrown this location. We currently have issues with storage and we just

don’t have enough room in general.”

Firefighters will enjoy more comfortable living spaces and expanded work areas.

“We’re kind of cramped here,” Wendt said. “It will allow us to get in a better environment. Overall, it will enhance operations. We’re in the final stages of the floor plan, but pretty much the plan is laid out.”

Wendt said the new building reflects the region’s spirit of progress.

“I’m very excited,” he said. “All the towns across this Metrocom are growing. We’re getting new subdivisions and we’re expanding. You have to keep up with growth and this will allow us to better serve the community and reduce our response times.”

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LIVE OAK continues from pg. 01

LOCAP wants public to see law enforcement in positive light

by BAIN SERNA

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IVE OAK – While it’s true the Live Oak Police Department exists to assist the community, sometimes officers need a helping hand, too.

That’s where the Live Oak Citizens Assisting Police comes in. The group raises funds to purchase items for the department not covered in the city budget. Members also patrol and observe in The Forum shopping center and city streets in a marked LOCAP vehicle and hold educational classes.

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It was founded in 2011 by thenPolice Chief Ron Echols and the Live Oak Citizens Police Academy.

“The purpose of LOCAP is to assist and support the Live Oak Police Department, its officers and staff and to help create a positive relationship between the Police Department and the community,” said LOCAP President Marie Atkinson.

Community involvement is key to the group’s mission, said LOCAP member and Councilman Ed Cimics.

“We are being visible in the community as being an arm of the Live Oak Police Department and helping to educate our citizens about what the police do,” he added.

With LOCAP’s fundraising, the department purchased armored vests for police canines, a ceremonial trumpet for police memorial services, first-aid kits for every police vehicle and much more.

“In order to be able to provide financial support, we hold several fundraisers throughout the year, and accept donations

LIVE OAK continues on pg. 19

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Photo by Collette Orquiz

LIVE OAK continues from pg. 18 from the community,” Atkinson said.

“Basically, LOCAP supports and assists the Police Department in any way we can, whether it is by volunteering within the department itself, or assisting in community events in which patrol officers may be better utilized by not being taken from their official duties to perform events which LOCAP members can carry out.”

In addition, its volunteers participate in the annual National Night Out observance and the holiday charity Blue Santa.

Members even wash police cars. Other duties can entail filing and assisting with Municipal Court, auto auctions, calling on municipal warrants and answering phones.

“All these events help out the police officers because they can depend on us to be there to help out, and they don’t have to stretch themselves too thin, or don’t have to be pulled from their regular duties to spend several hours at an event,” Atkinson said. “We project a positive attitude toward our community and the department.”

During a time where departments across the country have come under extra scrutiny, it’s important to

remember to support the men and women in blue, members said.

“My greatest personal joy in being a member of LOCAP is portraying a positive attitude about our officers,” Atkinson said. “It saddens me when I hear people speak of our officers, or the police in general, in a less-than-favorable light.”

To join LOCAP, residents must first attend and graduate from the Live Oak Citizens Police Academy. The once-a-week, 12-week course gives an overview of an officer’s duties. The training offers hands-on activities involving traffic stops, weapons, canine demonstrations, dispatcher duties and 911 emergency calls, as well as covering topics on gangs, graffiti, identify theft and other law-enforcement subjects.

“We have firsthand knowledge of the dangers they face every day for each and every resident of our community,” Atkinson said.

To learn more about the group, contact LOCAP@LiveOakTx.net.

For details about the Live Oak Citizens Police Academy, visit http://www. liveoaktx.net/departments/police/joinlive-oak-pd/citizens-police-academy.

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JAN. 16 - FEB. 13, 2017

HAPPENING continues from pg. 09 CONVERSE BRUSH COLLECTION The city, divided into four 13-17 sectors, staggers monthly brush pickups. Next collection area for clippings is Zone 2. Residents should place brush curbside the Saturday before.

For a map designating zones, a planahead calendar and pile dimensions, visit a link at www.conversetx.net.

FEB.

CITIZENS PUBLIC SAFETY Selma’s Police and FEBRUARY ACADEMY Fire departments will conduct classes for residents. The free sessions are at 9375 Corporate Drive in Selma on Wednesdays from 6:30-9:30 p.m. (Also, one 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. meeting is on a Saturday.)

Topics will include administration, patrol functions, criminal investigations, Fire Department operations, SWAT team and more. For details and dates, call 651-5368.

BEGINNING

TUESDAYS

FARMERS MARKET South Texas Farmers Market is 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 8300

Pat Booker Road in Live Oak in the Alamo University Center’s parking lot. Purchase healthy fruits and veggies, plus jars of honey, jams and more. For details plus other area markets, visit www.gotexan.org.

SAN ANTONIO NORTHEAST TUESDAYS ROTARY MEETINGS The club gathers at 6:30 p.m. in 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.

CONVERSE LIBRARY WEDNESDAYS CHILDREN’S STORY TIMES Readings are 10:3011:30 a.m. at the Converse Public Library, 601 S. Seguin Road. The free event gives toddlers an early start to literacy through books, music, and arts and crafts. Parents are urged to arrive promptly; youngsters must be supervised. For more, call 659-4160.

HAPPENING continues on pg. 21

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Minimum of 4 hours of service. Offer valid one time per household. Available at participating locations only. Not valid with any other offer.

OFFER EXPIRES: Feb 28, 2017

Home Improvement

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21

LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM HAPPENING continues from pg. 20

WINDCREST EVENTS August through May, the Women’s Club meets the fourth Wednesday of each month (Jan. 25). For more including exact times and event location, call Kathy Littlefield at 413-6018. September through May, the Garden Club gathers the first Monday of each month (Feb. 6). For more including exact times and location, call Lois Wooten at 827-4357. Attend “Coffee With a Cop” from 9:30-10:30 a.m. the first Friday of each month (Feb. 3) at Dunkin’ Donuts, 5105 Walzem Road. For more, call 655-2666.

Visit the Lions Club on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month (Jan. 24, Feb. 14) at 6:30 p.m. in Takas Park Civic Center, 9310 Jim Seal Drive. For more, call 951-9463.

Winter is Here!

W A TENTION

MONTHLY

RANDOLPH METROCOM WEDNESDAYS ROTARY The club meets at noon in the Olympia Hills Golf & Event Center, 12900 Mount Olympus St. in Universal City. Lunch is $15 per person.

Speaking Jan. 18 is Deena Lehman with the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo. For more, visit www.randolphmetrocomrotary.org.

CIBOLO GRANGE THURSDAYS MARKETPLACE The nonprofit agricultural and civic organization hosts 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.

FEELING CHIPPER? Selma MONTHLY residents can receive free chipper service the first week of each month. For more and to schedule a crew and chipper, call 651-7830.

GOODWILL PICKUPS Goodwill ONGOING Industries offers donation pickup services at Bexar County residences. For more, call 271-8881 or fill out pickup forms available at www. goodwillsa.org/home-pickup-services.

SUBMITTING EVENTS: Email info to tips@localcommunitynews.com.

N W IS HE IME O IM OUR K S

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

TEAGUE’S TREE SERVICE

Did you now hatt proper care and D pruning off your rees can help increase heir li e and eeep your home sa e rom damage?

Call he xper s att Teague’s Tree Service or a R E s ima e.

TEAGUE’S TREE SERVICE

20% OFF! Call the friendly professionals at Teague’s Tree Service and receive 20% off your tree service.

Offer Expires February 28, 2107 Call 210-658-4765.

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 .

NOW HIRING BUS DRIVERS! Starting Pay $13/hour

• Health Plans • Cafeteria Plan • Hospital Indemnity • Tax Sheltered Accounts • Sick Leave Bank • AETNA Disability Ins. • Dental Plan • Employee Assistance Program

5 PAID HOLIDAYS GREAT BENEFITS

North East Independent School District Apply at www.NEISD.net or Call 210-356-9229 for more information

22

JAN. 16 - FEB. 13, 2017

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

Golf facility wants visitors to feel at home on the range

by COLLETTE ORQUIZ

R

olling Oaks Golf Range and Restaurant’s new owners want patrons to hit a holein-one at the natural-grass facility while enjoying eats and drinks.

After closing for six months, father-andson duo Robert Lozano Osuna and Robert Jeffrey Osuna reopened the establishment at 5550 Mountain Vista Drive last June.

Robert Jeffrey Osuna said he left his former job in order to pursue something fresh.

“I wanted to challenge myself and

try to get a piece of a business. My dad actually remembers this place,” Osuna said. “He remembers it being a really, really great place back in the late ’90s, and he was all for a piece of this ownership.”

Osuna said much effort has gone into refurbishing the driving range to provide a better experience — grass maintenance, new golf balls and more.

He lauded John Delgado, who repainted and remodeled parts of the property.

Memberships are procured in three-, six- and eight-month increments. The grounds are also maintained year-round for golfers to hone their swings.

The restaurant offers

Rolling Oaks Golf Range and Restaurant on the Northeast Side uses all-natural grass year-round, making it easy for golfers to hone their swings. The venue offers several membership packages.

Courtesy photo

American favorites, from burgers to chicken sandwiches.

“It’s a small menu, but everything on it’s really good. We take pride in every single thing that we make,” Osuna said.

A full bar, with numerous craft beers in cans and bottles, is available.

In addition to golf, enjoy live music, pingpong, darts, cornhole and a kids’ playground, plus catering and event rentals.

Driving-range hours are 1-11 p.m.

Monday; 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday; 9 a.m. to midnight

Friday and Saturday; and 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday. Restaurant hours are 4-11 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to midnight, with bar open until 2 a.m. Friday and Saturday; and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday.

ROLLING OAKS GOLF RANGE AND RESTAURANT 5550 Mountain Vista Drive For more, call 655-4653 or visit rollingoakssa.com or facebook.com/RollingOaksSA/

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23

LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM

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

9204 FM 78 (1/4 mile inside Loop 1604) Smoothie King team member Naomi Garcia (left) pours a blended drink while morning-shift leader Kaycee Brimhall supervises. Photo by Collette Orquiz

Healthy drinks ‘with a purpose’ at Smoothie King

by COLLETTE ORQUIZ

L

IVE OAK — Instead of fast food, Amy and David Briscoe craved healthier choices for their family, so the Louisiana natives opened a New Orleans-based Smoothie King here.

Serving “smoothies with a purpose” since 1973, the franchise tries to offer something for everybody, with gluten-free and vegan selections included. The Briscoes debuted the 7939 Pat Booker Road eatery in July; other locations are planned.

“It was just something we wanted to hand down to the kids, show them that there’s a different option out there than just fast food,” said Amy Briscoe.

Smoothies are blended to order; ingredients can be added, substituted or removed for preference.

“We try to train our team the best we can to know the product,” which includes

learning about allergies and the reason — health or otherwise — that led a visitor to choose a smoothie, Briscoe said.

Popular drinks include Angel Food, a classic strawberry-banana mix, and the chocolate, strawberry or vanilla Gladiator, packed with protein plus two fruits.

Also available are enhancers, snacks, supplements and catering.

Briscoe last fall did some catering for the Steele High School varsity football team.

“They’re getting specific smoothies for the game, they’re getting their electrolytes, they’re getting their energy for the game and it helps them to compete better,” Briscoe said.

Smoothie King offers daily 10 percent discounts for military, paramedics, firefighters and police officers, plus 10 percent off on Mondays for those with gym memberships, and any drink is $5 on Fridays.

Hours are 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. weekdays, 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday.

SMOOTHIE KING 7939 Pat Booker Road in Live Oak For more, call 776-7666 or visit smoothieking.com

210-281-8629

10

$

OFF

(Regularly $57.00)

Prepare for Holiday Travel Make Sure Your Vehicle Is Safe Before You Hit the Road

(210) 658-1717 205 FM 3009, Schertz, TX 78154 ChristianBrothersAuto.com

Stay connected with family and friends with same day repairs on most devices.

• Same day repair • Highest Quality Parts • 90-day warranty • Low Price Guarantee • Military and First Responder Discounts • Veteran Owned • Free Diagnostics • Mention ad receive 5% off Hours of Operation: Mon - Sat 10:00a - 7:00p • Sun 12:00pp - 5:00p 8340 FM 78, 1A, Converse, TX 781109 210-455-8299 • ubreakifix.com

Any BG Oil Change Package.

Includes up to 5 qts.Castrol GTX synthetic blend oil, filter and BG MOA (extends oil change intervals up to 10,000 miles

Must be presented at check-in. Not to be combined with other offers. Expires 2/28/17

49

$

99

(Regularly $69.99)

Oil Change, Starting / Charging System Test & Courtesy Inspection Every major vehicle system is checked so you’ll know exactly what your vehicle needs.

Includes up to 5 qts. synthetic-blend oil (excludes full-synthetic and diesel). Must be presented at time of service. Not to be combined with other offers. Expires 2/28/17.

Prsrt Std US Postage Paid Permit 6450 San Antonio TX

Spring is one of our busiest seasons at Lowe’s. That’s why we need creative and energetic people who can inspire, encourage and give helpful advice on hoe and garden projects. If you’re a can-do person, we want to see you here.

*****ECR WSS Postal Customer

Inspire creativity. Bring ideas to life.

Connect with others to help them where they live.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR STORE SEASONAL EMPLOYEES Temporary, Part-Time Positions Varied Schedules • March - June

Sound like a job for you? Select this location and keyword “Store Seasonal Employee” when you apply online at: careers.lowes.com Lowe’s is an equal opportunity affirmative action employer.

Great San Antonio and surrounding area stores are now hiring for the Spring season 2017.

Participating Stores are in your area!

COMMUNITY NEWS

4204 GARDENDALE STE. 201 SAN ANTONIO, TX 78229

Lowe’s of San Marcos; Lowe’s of NW San Antonio; Lowe’s of NWC San Antonio; Lowe’s of W. San Antonio; Lowe’s of Kerrville; Lowe’s of N. San Antonio; Lowe’s of NE San Antonio; Lowe’s of NE Central San Antonio; Lowe’s of San Antonio; Lowe’s of South San Antonio; Lowe’s of SE San Antonio; Lowe’s of New Braunfels; Lowe’s of Schertz; Lowe’s of Alamo Ranch (San Antonio); Lowe’s of Kyle.