LOCAL: Metrocom June 2016

DECISION 2016 ELECTION RECAP Small voter turnouts marked Metrocom elections for local candidates and issues on May 7 and in party primary runoffs May 24. An Aug. 2 special election will decide a temporary representative in Texas House District 120, which includes parts of Converse and Windcrest.

MAY 24 PARTY PRIMARY RUNOFFS (I)- incumbents REPUBLICAN U.S. House District 15 Tim Westley defeated Ruben Villarreal Texas House District 73 Kyle Biedermann def. Doug Miller (I) Bexar County Precinct 3 Constable Mark Vojvodich (I) def. Nathan Buchanan Comal County Sheriff Mark Reynolds def. Brent Paullus DEMOCRATIC U.S. House District 15 Vicente González def. Juan “Sonny” Palacios Texas House District 120 (full term) Barbara Gervin-Hawkins def. Mario Salas Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar def. Andy Lopez MAY 7 RESULTS (I)- incumbents TEXAS HOUSE DISTRICT 120 (unexpired term) Democrats Laura Thompson, Lou Miller advance to Aug. 2 runoff election UNIVERSAL CITY Mayor – John Williams def. Adam Salyer City Council At-Large – Tom Maxwell (I), Tom England (I), Beverly Volle (I) def. Andy Garza LIVE OAK Mayor – Mary Dennis (I), unopposed City Council (unopposed) – Place 2 – Bob Tullgren (I); Place 4 – Ed Cimics (I)

CONVERSE BUSINESS

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VOL. 3, ISSUE 12

JUNE 20 - JULY 18, 2016

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COMMUNITY NEWS SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF BRACKEN LIVE OAK

SCHERTZ

SELMA

CIBOLO CONVERSE GARDEN RIDGE UNIVERSAL CITY WINDCREST

JISD VOTERS SPEAK OUT

PG.16 School board

GARDEN RIDGE City Council (unopposed) – Place 1 – John McCaw (I); Place 4 – Todd Arvidson (I); Place 5 – Larry Thompson (I)

drops Mackey name from new school

SELMA Mayor (unopposed) – Tom Daly (I) City Council (unopposed) – Place 2 Harry Greene (I); Place 3 – Ken Harris (I) Approved 1/4-cent sales-tax renewal for roads maintenance

Veterans Memorial to replace title honoring former superintendent

JUDSON ISD BOND Three of four propositions in a $241.1 million bond issue passed, with voters rejecting $51.6 million to complete the second stage of the district’s newest high school ALAMO COLLEGES TRUSTEES District 1 – Joe Alderete Jr. (I); District 2 – Denver McClendon (I); District 3 – Anna Uriegas Bustamante (I); District 4 – Marcelo Casillas (I) NORTH EAST ISD TRUSTEES District 1 – Sandy Hughey (I) defeated Chris Herring, Melissa Martinez White; District 4 – Jim Wheat (I; unopposed); District 5 – Shannon Grona (I); District 6 – Tony Jaso (I; unopposed)

PG.18 Economic Development Corp. welcoming new businesses; event center among latest attractions

JUDSON ISD BOND BREAKDOWN

The Judson Independent School District electorate approved three of four propositions on May 7, rejecting a $51.6 million proposal to finish the second phase of Veterans Memorial High School, which will open in August: Measures

Description

COMAL ISD TRUSTEES District 6 – Marty Bartlett (I), and District 7 – Cody Mueller (I); both unopposed

Proposition 1 Proposition 2 Proposition 4

Campus and facility modernization Elementary school construction Retire bond debt (Kirby Middle School)

— Compiled by Will Wright

TOTAL

Estimated total $135,900,000 $73,000,000 $5,200,000

$214,100,000

Source: Judson ISD business and finance office

PG.14 District

bond will soon schedule bond projects.

Second phase of new high school rejected

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JUNE 20 - JULY 18, 2016

FROM THE EDITOR tedwards@localcommunitynews.com

President Harold J. Lees Publisher Gregg Rosenfield

Assoc. Publisher Rick Upton Director of Operations Jaselle Luna

EDITORIAL Executive Editor Thomas Edwards Managing Editor Will Wright News Staff Collette Orquiz and Bain Serna Contributing Writers Arthur Schechter and Susan Yerkes ART Creative Director Florence D. Edwards Contributing Photographer Rudy B. Ornelas

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 molson@localcommunitynews.com Story Ideas tips@localcommunitynews.com Website www.salocallowdown.com LOCAL Community News publications Zone 1: 78204, 78205, 78209, 78210, 78212, 78215 Zone 2: 78213, 78230, 78231, 78248, 78249 Zone 3: 78216, 78232, 78247 Zone 6: 78258, 78259, 78260, 78261 Zone 7: 78015, 78023, 78255, 78256, 78257 For advertising, customer service or editorial, please call us at 210-338-8842 or write to us at: Local Community News 4204 Gardendale St., Ste. 201 San Antonio, TX 78229 Reproduction in whole or in part without our permission is prohibited, 2016 Helen Publishing LLC and Local Community News LLC, all rights reserved.

Notice something a little different?

S

harp-eyed readers may have noticed something a little different about the edition they hold in their hands.

Yes, the newspaper is a little smaller. We have trimmed the size of the pages by 1.5 inches.

Not to worry, because the slightly tweaked version you now have in your possession in no way detracts from all the great news stories, events, features and other items the audience of LOCAL Community News has come to know and love.

Nothing is diminished except the actual size of the newsprint on which the paper is printed.

Why the change?

There are a number of reasons.

For one, LOCAL offers newspaperstyle content, but with a magazine look and feel. This new design is in keeping with and maintaining more of a magazine appearance.

Also, we have learned from talking to our peers at industry conventions this practice is not unusual and is even part of a national trend.

Any savings we see will be minimal.

We remain committed to serving the information needs of our neighbors.

Of course, we’re not the only area newspaper to change the size of its pages. We’re just catching up.

Let us know what you think.

THOMAS EDWARDS EXECUTIVE EDITOR ON THE COVER: The name of former Judson Independent School District Superintendent Willis Mackey is coming down from a new high school, which is being renamed Veterans Memorial following a decision June 7 by the school board. A bond issue May 7 to fund a second phase at the school failed, and residents twice asked the trustees before the bond to drop the name. See story on page 16. Photo by Rudy B. Ornelas

5

SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM

LOCAL COMMENTARY

Green grass is nice, but at what cost?

by SUSAN YERKES

T

he long, hot South Texas summer is back. It’s a good time to seek air-conditioned respite, lounge in a shady backyard or dive into a cool pool. It’s also a good time to think seriously about the price we all pay for lovely lawns, plantings and pools in the land of blistering heat.

Thick green lawns are beautiful, no doubt about it. Many of us have

grown up with a mental picture of the ideal American house, complete with a wide front lawn. Each May, whole sections of stores fill up with plants and lawn-care accessories. We’re barraged with advertisements touting the glories of yards carpeted in lush, lovely, wiggle-your-toes-in-it grass.

Maintaining a lawn takes a whole lot of water when we’re not experiencing a deluge – about 300 gallons just to irrigate 1,000 square feet of grass at half an inch.

In hot, dry climates, evaporation sucks up a lot before it’s even absorbed. In the summer, up to 50 percent of household use goes toward outdoor watering.

That’s not counting swimming pools.

The average outdoor pool takes 18,000 gallons to fill, and loses 1,000 gallons or more to evaporation each month. In comparison, the average home served by the San Antonio Water System uses about 7,100 gallons of water monthly.

Some folks just give up and let the grass die. Others conserve, watering just enough to keep the grass on life support, or creating hardy, native xeriscapes. Still others go for

broke, watering as much as their towns and cities allow, and sometimes more.

While the cost of water steadily has risen, it’s still a good deal. However, as growth continues, and sustained drought and increasing temperatures stress the Edwards Aquifer, it will only get pricier.

Bexar County is projected to add as many as a million more residents by 2025.

That’s a lot more people taking showers, flushing toilets, running washing machines and dishwashers … and watering lawns. As we grow, new developments are spreading.

As water demand escalates, SAWS is focused on the hotter, drier future. A new, state-of-the-art groundwater desalination plant rising on the South Side is a plus.

Yet, the real whopper of a water deal is the Vista Ridge pipeline proposal, which SAWS predicts could bring us up to 16 billion gallons a year from Burleson County’s Carrizo-Wilcox Aquifer.

The water company wants to make sure we have an abundant supply for years to come … not a bad thing. Yet, all the new water is going to cost us. By 2020, SAWS estimates the average residential

customer’s monthly water and sewer bill could increase by as much as 50 percent.

What can we as individuals do to help conserve our most vital natural resource?

In the past few decades, San Antonians have curtailed usage, thanks to increased public education, water-saving technologies and xeriscaping. Recently, SAWS CEO Robert Puente told the City Council over those years, conservation alone has preserved as much water as we’d get from three Vista Ridge pipelines combined.

Keep conserving! Find alternatives to green, grassy lawns. Check your pipes and sprinklers for leaks. Locate tons of tips online at saws.org. Talk to people – including elected officials — about saving water, both as residents and as a city. Austin just passed an ordinance limiting use of sprinkler systems year-round to once a week. District 8 Councilman Ron Nirenberg tried to pass something similar for San Antonio, but the political will isn’t there — yet.

If you’re a water-saver, email me your methods. syerkes@localcommunitynews.com

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JUNE 20 - JULY 18, 2016

OUR TURN Views and opinions about your community

• Locally O d• Y • • • o Ev u

Keep dog parks safe

er nces

T

here is no doubt San Antonio’s off-leash dog parks greatly benefit canines and owners, but visitors — both two- and four-legged versions — must exercise caution and courtesy to promote safety.

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A story in some editions of LOCAL Community News by reporter Ron Aaron Eisenberg highlights the joys and terrors of frequenting such places.

While San Antonio’s Animal Care Services reports dog-on-dog attacks are few, at least one tearful young woman said she would never return to the canine recreational area at Hardberger Park after her Pomeranian was mauled to death by another dog.

Such accounts are heartbreaking; for

many of us, pets are like family. However, there are ways to avoid these tragedies.

First, make sure your pet’s vaccinations are up-to-date.

Second, learn your animal’s body language. Know how to spot warning signs indicating the dog is about to become aggressive. If your furry friend is hostile toward other animals, come to the park when it is less crowded.

At the venue, don’t leave your animal tethered, as this only makes it harder for Fido to run or maneuver if attacked.

Also, if you and your pet are unaccustomed to a dog park, find a smaller, less-crowded park to get started.

Owners should also exercise patience with other owners. Finally, don’t forget to clean up your pet’s messes.

If you’re a pet owner, help make area dog parks safe for everybody. Follow these tips so everyone can enjoy a good time outside with man’s best friend.

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

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HAPPENING LOCAL

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OUR GUIDE TO YOUR MONTH

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HAPPENING KEY

FITNESS

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CHAMBER EVENTS The JUNE/JULY Chamber (Schertz-CiboloSelma area) has the following activities. For more, call 619-1950 or visit www.thechamber.info. Offices will be closed July 4. The June luncheon, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 21 at Schertz Civic Center, 1400 Schertz Parkway, celebrates The Chamber’s 11th anniversary, graduation of its 2016 Leadership CORE class; Schertz Mayor Michael Carpenter is the guest speaker. Admission is $28, $18 for Chamber members. The second annual Home Living Showcase is 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. June 25 at the Schertz Civic Center. The free event features more than 70 area professional home and lawn-care

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businesses, plus hourly do-it-yourself tutorials. The Chamber’s Toastmasters convene 6:45 p.m. each Monday at the Comfort Inn & Suites meeting room, 5571 Interstate 35 North in Selma.

TRI-COUNTY CHAMBER JUNE/JULY EVENTS Texas Tri-County Chamber of Commerce, cultivating business alliances across Bexar, Comal and Guadalupe counties, has the following events. The Chamber’s June mixer is 5-7 p.m. June 24 at Retama Park, 1 Retama Parkway in Selma. No pre-registration is required for the free

HAPPENING continues on pg. 08

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JUNE 20 - JULY 18, 2016

HAPPENING continues from pg. 07 program. Author and motivational speaker Stephanie Scheller will present “Creating Systems for Success,” for the June 29 lunchbreak seminar, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Jordan Ford, 13010 Interstate 35 North in San Antonio. The $20 admission includes lunch. The next monthly luncheon, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. July 12 at Blue Bonnet Palace, 17630 Lookout Road in Selma, features a business-networking seminar.

Seating is limited; online registration is encouraged. Pre-registration is $20, $25 at the door. For more including membership and event information, visit www.txtricountychamber.org, facebook. com/texastricountychamberofcommerce, or call Lisa Jubela at 830-305-6926.

HELP FOR SERVICEWOMEN Hands N Harmony Wellness 21 Center, 2401 Universal City Blvd., hosts “Grace After Fire,” a free support group for female veterans from 6-7 p.m. on the third Wednesday of the month. Refreshments will be served at

JUNE

the gathering featuring resources and activities relating to servicewomen.

RSVP encouraged, but not required.

For more, call 566-1168 or visit handsnharmony.massagetherapy.com.

SCHERTZ-CIBOLO LIONS CLUB JUNE 22, The group meets on JULY 23 the second and fourth Wednesday of the month from noon to 1 p.m. at the Schertz Family YMCA, 621 Westchester Drive. Admission is free; bring your own lunch. Newcomers welcome. For more, visit http://www.eclubhouse.org/sites/schertzcibolo/.

RANDOLPH METROCOM ROTARY The club meets at 22 noon in the Olympia Hills Golf & Event Center, 12900 Mount Olympus St. in Universal City. Lunch is $15 per person. Please RSVP to David@DavidSippel.com. The guest speaker is Universal City Assistant City Manager Kim Turner. For more including other club gatherings, visit www.randolphmetrocomrotary.org.

JUNE

MORGAN’S WONDERLAND HOSTS SENIORS On the second and fourth Friday from April through December, let age be your ally during “Senior Fridays” at Morgan’s Wonderland, 5223 David Edwards Drive in San Antonio. For $8, enjoy senior activities from 11 a.m. to noon. For more, call 495-5888 or visit www.morganswonderland.com.

JUNE 24 & JULY 8

A TASTE OF THE OLYMPICS Hosted by River City 25 Gymnastics, 103 Kneupper Road in Converse, guests can take in a free event complete with an opening ceremony, open gym and guest appearances and demonstrations from Olympians. Celebrate the athletic spirit while enjoying food, music and bounce houses from noon to 4 p.m. For more, call 946-8256 or visit rivercitygymnastics.info.

SCHERTZ CITY COUNCIL JUNE 28 MEETINGS The City Council & JULY 5, 12 regularly convenes at 6 p.m. on the first, second and fourth

JUNE

Tuesday each month in the Hal Baldwin Municipal Complex Council Chambers, 1400 Schertz Parkway, Building No. 4. For more, visit schertz.com.

LIVE OAK CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS The City Council gathers at 7 p.m. on the second and last Tuesday of each month in Live Oak City Hall, 8001 Shin Oak Drive. The public is welcome.

For more, call 653-9140, ext. 21.

JUNE 28 & JULY 12

SCHERTZ JUBILEE CELEBRATION The 41st annual 3-4 two-day event honoring American independence features numerous festivities in Pickrell Park, 703 Oak St., including live music, carnival rides, food and contests. A Fourth of July parade begins at 9:30 a.m. at Clemens High School, 1001 Elbel Road. A 5K fun run/walk starts at 9:15 a.m. from Schertz Civic Center, 1400 Schertz Parkway.

For more, go to visitschertz.com.

JULY

HAPPENING continues on pg. 09

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SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM HAPPENING continues from pg. 08 CIBOLO GRANGE MEETING On the first Sunday of the month, adult members gather at Grange Hall, 413 N. Main St. in Cibolo, for socializing at 12:30 p.m. and a 1 p.m. business discussion. The following week, at the same locale, a fun “junior” session is conducted for youth ages 5-13 and 14 and up. Newcomers welcome. For more, visit www.grange.org/cibolotx1541/31-2/.

JULY 3, JULY 10

ST. PAUL’S CHURCH FREE SUPPER During the first 6 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.

JULY

MOVIES IN THE PARK JULY A free screening of “Minions” 9 takes place after sunset, about 8:30 p.m., at Universal City Park, 305 North Blvd. Bring snacks, drinks, blankets and chairs. Concessions will be available for purchase. A foam pit

provides added entertainment beginning at 7 p.m. For cancellation due to weather, visit www.universalcitytexas.com. For other inquiries, contact Regina Carmona at events@uctx.gov or call 619-0721.

KIDS FIND THE ARTIST WITHIN JULY With a Twist, 8206 11-15 Painting Agora Parkway in The Forum shopping center, Suite 100 in Live Oak, hosts “Kidz Camp: Van Gogh Week” from 9 a.m. to noon, highlighted by a final day noon to 1 p.m. art show. Cost for youngsters ages 7-12 is $250 per child.

For more, call 307-4064. To register, visit www.paintingwithatwist.com.

NEW BACK-TO-SCHOOL SHOES Randolph Area Christian Assistance Program holds its annual charity for needy kids, kindergarten through 12th grade. Visit 307 Pfeil St. in Schertz from 1-3 p.m. Monday through Friday to apply for a gift card redeemable at Payless ShoeSource online. Must meet income qualifications and prove residency in 78108, 78109, 78124, 78148,

JULY 11 - SEPT 23

78154, 78132, 78233 (Live Oak only), 78247 or 78266 ZIP code. Monetary donations, specific to this program, are welcome. For more, call 658-1613.

COFFEE WITH COPS Meet patrolmen when the Live 14 Oak Police Department holds another neighborly get-together, part of a series of discussions with residents, 8:30-10 a.m. at Nicha’s Comida Mexicana, 7929 Pat Booker Road in Live Oak. Menu prices apply. For more, call 945-1700.

JULY

HONORING VETERANS’ BUSINESSES The Converse 14 Economic Development Corp. is saluting veteran-owned businesses with an appreciation event 6 p.m. at the Greater Randolph Area Services Program Community Center, 250 Donalan Drive in Converse. To RSVP, email klindquist@ converseedc.com or call 659-9163.

JULY

JULY

16

HOME TOWNE SHOPPE Go to Grange Hall, 413 N. Main St. in Cibolo, on the third

Saturday of the month for a shopping event from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. featuring a variety of local businesses offering jewelry, cosmetics, spa products, clothing, wickless candles and more. Enjoy refreshments and enter a door-prize drawing. For more, visit https://www.facebook.com/ CiboloGrangeHomeTowneShoppe.

I’M ALL EARS Veritas, a five-piece powerhouse 17 group, will appear in a free 6 p.m. concert at First Baptist Church of Universal City, 1401 Pat Booker Road. The public is invited.

Contemporary, classical and traditional music will be performed. For more, visit www.fbcuc.org or call 658-6394.

JULY

CONVERSE BULK PICKUP 658-1965 before noon on 18-22 Call the third Friday of each month to request the collection of bulk items placed curbside; pickup is slated Monday through Friday the following week.

JULY

HAPPENING continues on pg. 10

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JUNE 20 - JULY 18, 2016

HAPPENING continues from pg. 09 For a list of accepted waste materials, designated 2016 collection days and more, visit www.conversetx.net.

CHILDREN’S DAY CARE THROUGH Triumphant Lutheran AUGUST Church’s Heimer Hall, 21315 Bat Cave Road in Garden Ridge, is registering infants and toddlers (6 months to 4 years old) for enrollment.

For more, call 651-9090 or visit www.triumphantlutheran.org.

SCHOOL BOARD MEETINGS SUMMER Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City Independent School District trustees will meet June 21 and July 28 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 7 p.m. July 21 in the ERC boardroom, 8205 Palisades Drive in Live Oak. For more, visit www.judsonisd.org.

North East Independent School District

THIS

trustees assemble 5:30 p.m. Aug. 8 at 8961 Tesoro Drive in San Antonio. To confirm dates and times, call 407-0533.

Comal Independent School District trustees gather 6 p.m. June 23 at 6 p.m. in the Support Services boardroom, 1404 Interstate 35 North in New Braunfels.

For more, visit www.comalisd.org.

COMAL COUNTY JUNIOR THIS DEPUTY ACADEMY The SUMMER Comal County Sheriff ’s Office is registering youngsters ages 9-11 to participate in its free program designed to teach children about the jobs of deputies, firefighters and first responders.

Each session is 8 a.m. to noon July 1115 at Mountain Valley Middle School and July 25-29 at Smithson Valley Middle School. For an application and more, visit the Comal County Sheriff ’s Office link at www.co.comal.tx.us.

SUBMITTING EVENTS: Email all

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

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

Open and Opening Soon 1. HUNNISNAX BARKERY & BOUTIQUE, 17323 Interstate 35 North, Suite 108 in Schertz, offers handcrafted, gourmet dog treats, canine clothing, accessories, foods and toys. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Tuesday through Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. For more, call 646-7629 or visit www.hunnisnax.com or facebook. com/Hunnisnax. (See story on page 21)

2. SNACK ATTACK ICE CREAM, 707 S. Seguin Road in Converse, offers unique snack twists from Central America, featuring fruit waters, smoothies, shakes, fruits, nachos, magonadas and more. Hours are noon to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday and 1:30-9 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. For more, call 802-5606 or visit facebook.com/ snackattacktx. (See story on page 22)

Address of local business Name of local business

3. SAN ANTONIO MASONRY AND TOOL SUPPLY, 9513 Kneupper Lane in Converse, offers an extensive collection of tools and supplies, plus a full line of stucco, masonry and foundation materials. Hours are 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to noon Saturday. For more, call 6517394 or visit www.samasonry.com.

4. TLC ACADEMY CONVERSE, 105 S. Seguin Road, Suites 101 and 102 in Converse, provides care for infants and children, ages 6 weeks to 5 years, in a safe, home-like environment, which encourages kids to develop at their own pace. Hours are 6:30 LOWDOWN continues on pg. 11

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LOWDOWN continues from pg. 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. For more, call 616-2287 or visit facebook.com/TLCAcademy.

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Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday

LOWDOWN continues on pg. 12

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JUNE 20 - JULY 18, 2016

LOWDOWN continues from pg. 11

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IN OTHER NEWS TRINITY UNIVERSITY RECENTLY RECOGNIZED LOCAL EDUCATORS selected as finalists for the 35th annual Trinity Prize for Excellence in Teaching, celebrating area public school teachers – prekindergarten through 12th grade – for outstanding classroom performances and educational leadership in their institutions and school districts. Among those receiving $1,500 and Tiffany & Co. crystal apples were Teresa Pena, a vocational instructor for adults at Judson Independent School District’s Judson Secondary Alternative School; Deborah Wells, a first-grade teacher at Randolph Field Independent School District’s Randolph Elementary; and Stacy Reed, an eighth-grade science teacher at Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City Independent School District’s Dobie Junior High School.

SCHERTZ-CIBOLO-UNIVERSAL CITY INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT held its annual Commitment to Excellence Awards program and Hall of Honor induction ceremony May 16 at Schertz Civic Center. SCUCISD Teachers of the Year were recognized, alongside others, for distinguished service. Included were 35 outgoing retirees with a combined 643 years of district experience. Jann Steed of Green Valley Elementary School received the highest honor, the Norma Paschal Commitment to Children Award. “The Commitment to Excellence Awards gives us a chance to recognize employees of every stripe in our district, as well as deserving alumni and community residents,” Superintendent Greg Gibson said.

LOCAL EDUCATORS RECEIVED HIGH HONORS WHEN the North East Independent School District celebrated its teachers during a May 4 banquet at The Club at Sonterra. The fete, held during National Teacher Appreciation Week, commemorated 72 NEISD

instructors. NEISD’s top area high school instructors included Wade Larson (NEISD Academy of Creative Education); Stacie Koehler (NEISD Alternative Center); Donna Legendre-Hoffman (Behavior Support Services Program/North East Transition Services); and Katie Davidson (Roosevelt). Top area middle school teachers included Christina Almeda (NEISD Alternative Center); Cherylee B. Stewart (Harris); Karen Vallente (White); and Heather Brown (Wood). Top area elementary campus educators included Lakisha Valentine (Camelot); Katherine Brune (Clear Spring); Pent-yi Pardo (East Terrell Hills); Kathie Love (Royal Ridge); Tyfani Pickett (Windcrest); Katie Robertson (Woodstone); Karen Cain (Fox Run); Lesvia Pena (Montgomery); and Rashunda Reid (Walzem).

JUDSON EARLY COLLEGE ACADEMY GRADUATES Alexis Forbes, Allan Johnson and Asia Gray-Day were among 25 Bexar County-area high school

LOWDOWN continues on pg. 13

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SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM LOWDOWN continues from pg. 12 students rewarded May 11 in the Martin Luther King Jr. Scholarship Program, which annually distributes thousands of dollars in college grants for local pupils – regardless of race or ethnicity – to celebrate the late civil-rights leader. For the first time, the commission awarded multiyear endowments, alongside singleyear awards. All were part of more than $400,000 available through the Dream Scholar Program and Scholarship Fund.

THE NEWEST METROCOM RESIDENTIAL COMMUNITIES WERE FEATURED at the Spring Tour of Homes, sponsored by the Greater San Antonio Builders Association in May. Region subdivisions and featured homebuilders included Horizon Pointe in Converse (Rausch Coleman Homes and Wall Homes); The Reserve at Schertz (Wall Homes).

OF LOCAL NOTE: Corbett Junior High School eighth-grader SHELBY O’NEAL recently agreed to join a regional

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Sign Up For Summer Fun! team competing in USA Volleyball’s High Performance Championships in July ... Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City Independent School District Superintendent GREG GIBSON, appointed by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, formally joined the board of the Teacher Retirement System in May ... Clemens High School graduates HANNAH SCHNEIDER and ROBERT PERRY III were awarded Terry Foundation Scholarships, which cover all college tuition, books, fees and living expenses at their selected universities. Schneider will attend Texas Woman’s University in Denton; Perry, Texas A&M University in College Station ... WILDER INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL HONOR BAND received outstanding performance and musicians awards at the May 16 Texas Lutheran University Festival ... Clemens High School senior MICHAEL FOLLETE recently received the University of Texas at San Antonio’s Top Scholar Award, which selected 10 Texas students for four-year scholarships covering tuition and fees, room and board, and paid travel abroad.

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JUNE 20 - JULY 18, 2016

JISD BOND continues from pg. 01

Three bond propositions approved by voters in the Judson Independent School District will fund major improvements including new campuses, but a fourth that was rejected during balloting May 7 would have paid for a second phase of construction at Mackey High School, which has since been renamed as Veterans Memorial High School (pictured). Photo by Rudy B. Ornelas

JISD plans for expected growth at new high school

by WILL WRIGHT

L

IVE OAK – Voters opted not to fund a second phase of construction for a new high school during balloting May 7, though three other bond measures for Judson Independent School District improvements passed.

Construction on the first phase of the new school, on Evans Road near Nacogdoches Road, is nearly complete and the campus is set to open in August. By a 94-vote margin – 1,292 to 1,198 – voters rejected additions for expected growth at the school.

The facility had been named for former SEE RELATED STORY ON PAGE 16

Superintendent Willis Mackey, before a June 7 school board reversal renamed it as Veterans Memorial High School. Earlier in the year, many opposed naming the campus after Mackey, though the school board at the time twice declined to change the decision.

District officials have set some priorities for the $214.1 million in approved propositions, but no clear implementation schedule is likely to be announced until funding is released.

“We are very grateful for the confidence that voters have given us regarding the passing of three of the four propositions,” Superintendent Carl Montoya said. “We intend to live up to that through a bond oversight committee and transparency of the projects.”

Contracts for architectural, engineering and construction services still need solicitation once funding is authorized.

“The implementation will be set when the money is released through bond sales,” said JISD spokesman Steve Linscomb. He

JISD BOND continues on pg. 15

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SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM JISD BOND continues from pg. 14 noted the district would begin receiving subsidies after the first 60 days of bond sales.

“That is when RFQs (Request for Qualifications) and RFPs (Request for Proposals) would be sent out through a bidding process for each of those phases: architectural, engineering and the general contractor,” he added.

Approved proposals designate $135.9 million for structure, electrical, mechanical and safety improvements, and updates technology at district schools and facilities; $73 million for new elementary schools on the north and south ends of the district; and $5.2 million to retire bond debt associated with rebuilding a portion of Kirby Middle School damaged in a 2012 fire.

“That means over the next few years we are going to be implementing more than $200 million in improvements, upgrades and building projects that have been needed for some time,” Montoya said.

Victor Valdez, the district’s director of facilities planning, has constructed a preliminary implementation timetable.

RECENT JUDSON ISD BOND ELECTION HISTORY YEAR TOTAL 2001 $154 million

2006 $236.4 million

2010 $198 million

2013 $83 million 2016 $214.1 million

Source: Judson ISD

FOR RESULT 2 new elementary schools, new middle school New high school (Wagner), existing facilities improvements Approved 3 new elementary schools, rebuild Judson HS (Red campus) Judson Early College Academy additions Existing facilities improvements Technology upgrades Approved 2 new elementary schools, new high school Transportation facility, existing facilities improvements Educational Support Center, technology upgrades Failed Copperfield Elementary (new), new high school (first phase) Approved Existing facilities improvement, 2 new elementary schools, retire bond debt. Voters, however, reject $51.6 million for second phase at Veterans Memorial High School 3 Approved/ 1 Failed

He declined comment requesting details, pending approval from Montoya and Milton Fields, the district’s assistant superintendent of operations.

JISD Board President Steve Salyer said the district is committed to transparency during the bond process, which begins with reviews of submitted bids by the district’s purchasing department, led by Michael Ashmore.

“I’m real proud of how we do things,” Salyer said. “The district won awards for how we score projects,

which is upfront and honest.”

Linscomb said work on the first projects isn’t expected to begin until late summer, and added priorities will focus on campus upgrades at Kitty Hawk and Kirby middle schools, each estimated to cost $21 million, then construction of the two new elementary schools.

Voters rejected a $51.6 million proposal to complete phase two of Veterans Memorial, initially approved in 2013 to relieve overcrowding at Judson High School. The

second phase would’ve added an academic wing, performing-arts center and upgraded athletic fields for varsity-level competition.

Linscomb said Veterans Memorial construction is “about 98 percent complete and is scheduled to open on time” to welcome 450 students this fall.

He said JISD would formulate a plan to address short-term needs and future enrollment at the school, which could exceed 1,000 pupils in three years.

Although an oversight committee will supervise and review the bond’s implementation, the role district trustees will play is unclear.

Passage of the lower bond measure will affect the district’s earlier tax-rate projections that would’ve hiked monthly numbers by $8 on the average $150,000 home in JISD. Although the high school addition proposition failed, Montoya said approval of the other bond measures is the right step for the district’s future.

“For some, this was a difficult decision and the district and the board knew that,” he said, “but in the end, our students and staff will really benefit from this bond.”

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MACKEY continues from pg. 01

Renaming school estimated to cost district $17,000

by WILL WRIGHT

L

IVE OAK — Judson Independent School District’s newest high school won’t bear the name of former Superintendent Willis Mackey after all.

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By a 5-1 vote, school board members – in a special meeting June 7 – rescinded two earlier decisions approving Mackey’s name for the $64.8 million facility, which now will open in August as Veterans Memorial High School on Evans Road near Nacogdoches Road.

During the past school year, many residents objected to the campus

JUNE 20 - JULY 18, 2016 assuming Mackey’s moniker, arguing the title should instead reflect the community’s debt to the armed forces.

Also, a May 7 bond issue resulted in voters rejecting a $51.6 million request to fund the second phase in the school’s construction, while three other unrelated propositions passed.

District 2 Trustee Richard LaFoille, who twice previously voted against honoring Mackey, introduced the latest name-change measure.

“I put it back on the agenda for one reason – for the education of our children,” LaFoille said. “We’ve lost sight of this and we need to reemphasize that we’re here for them.”

Mackey served as superintendent from 2007 until 2014, when he stepped down but received $218,000 as part of a controversial settlement with JISD. Four speakers at the June 7 meeting applauded the decision to rename the school – either as Veterans Memorial or for others with longer terms of

MACKEY continues on pg. 17

17

SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM MACKEY continues from pg. 16 distinguished district service.

With District 3 Trustee Gilbert Flores absent, remaining board members approved the switch – except for at-large District 6 Trustee Renée Paschall.

“It’s not just about the man; he has a family who is very proud of seeing his name on the building,” she said.

“We should come back at another time to consider naming one of the new elementary schools for him.”

Superintendent Carl Montoya estimated re-branding would cost at least $17,000 – plus $17,000 already spent affixing Mackey’s name at the site.

While many agreed with the board decision, some found it unnecessary.

“Changing it is not very responsible,” said Randy Pannell, who chaired JISD’s recent bond committee. “I feel it’s a waste of taxpayers’ money.”

Last fall, the district solicited public input on potential names and received more than 400 suggestions. Months of debate, often acrimonious, preceded

To Serve, Promote and Enhance

Trustees with the Judson Independent School District met June 7 to reverse an earlier decision naming the district's newest high school after former Superintendent Willis Mackey. In a 5-1 vote, the school board changed the title to Veterans Memorial High School. Trustee Renée Paschall, who cast the dissenting ballot, said in the future the school board might consider naming an elementary school for Mackey, who stepped down in 2014. Photo by Rudy B. Ornelas

each of the earlier votes. The latest development, which came almost without warning, now appears final.

JISD spokesman Steve Linscomb indicated no other actions involving the new high school were taken.

“The Patriots mascot and red, white and

blue school colors — decided by a process involving incoming students, school administration and the JISD school board — will remain the same,” Linscomb said.

He added the campus is “98 percent complete” and on schedule to welcome 450 freshmen and sophomores this fall.

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CONVERSE EDC continues from pg. 01

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City investing in infrastructure, road improvements

by WILL WRIGHT

C

ONVERSE – About a year ago, the city’s Economic Development Corp. began revamping its approach to attract new commerce to town.

Officials said the EDC has successfully convinced dozens of businesses to relocate or expand in recent years, while also adding more area shopping, housing and entertainment venues, thus keeping local dollars in Converse and buoying quality-of-life services for an estimated 22,000 residents.

Among the enhancements are a new

sports and event center, a mercantile hub, increased private-sector employment and improved infrastructure at retail outlets.

“The City Council, EDC and city staffers are working diligently,” Mayor Al Suarez said. “We are having monthly ribbon-cutting ceremonies for new businesses.”

Yet, officials agree, more can be accomplished.

Kate Silvas, EDC executive director, said studies indicated there is $788 million in unmet retail demand in almost every sector in the city, noting townsfolk spend more than $80 million annually in groceries at locations outside Converse.

Seeking to bridge the gap, the city continues to entice commercial development near or on the most traveled thoroughfares – Toepperwein Road, FM 78 and Kitty Hawk Drive.

One strategy includes creating what will eventually become the city’s largest events center.

In April, the council approved

CONVERSE EDC continues on pg. 19

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SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM CONVERSE EDC continues from pg. 18 $155,000 in incentives for Papa Dante’s Inc. to develop a $1.2 million Dante’s Event Center and Bocce Pavilion, a 9,620-square-foot facility at 8607 Kitty Hawk near Toepperwein.

The EDC package includes a $125,000 grant and reimbursement for nearly $30,000 in fees and permit costs associated with construction, slated to break ground in August. When finished, it should accommodate up to 550 people.

“For the first time ever in Converse, the new bocce event center will provide a much-needed option for the citizens and local organizations of our community,” Suarez said of the building,

which is an expansion of Papa Dante’s Italian Restaurant at the same site.

The structure can host wedding receptions, corporate events and host bocce (Italian lawn bowling) leagues and tournaments. John Dante, vice president and general manager of Papa Dante’s Restaurant, said he hopes the addition won’t only attract locals, but also host future United States Bocce Federation tournaments.

“It will offer a wide variety of folks to spend time with their families and friends and companies to hold events here, as well as play bocce ball in a climatecontrolled environment,” said Dante, who opened his Converse restaurant in 1979. “It should be something that will

WE COULD NOT BE MORE EXCITED ABOUT WHAT THIS EVENT CENTER WILL DO FOR CONVERSE.

attract folks from around the country, and certainly those here in Texas.”

Payback on the city’s investment will be complete within five years, officials said, predicting the facility’s net economic impact will total more than $12 million within a decade.

“We could not be more excited about what this event center will do for Converse,” Suarez said in a prepared release. “Papa Dante’s has been a longstanding cornerstone of our community.

This project will facilitate the explosive residential and commercial growth that Converse is currently experiencing.”

Other notable projects include a new Walmart Neighborhood Market at Toepperwein and Kitty Hawk. The 41,000-square-foot store scheduled to debut in August at 10781 Toepperwein Road will satisfy residents’ growing grocery needs while creating 95 jobs, officials said.

The city has partnered with developers to install $350,000 in water infrastructure

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improvements to spur additional commercial development adjacent to the new Walmart site. Nearby, the Heights at Converse, a 200-unit apartment complex at 7855 Kitty Hawk, will open in August.

Converse EDC also funded $50,000 in infrastructure betterments for Lott’s Landing, a retail center located across from the Walmart Supercenter in the 8300 block of FM 78, to increase traffic flow to those businesses. It also contributed $1.2 million toward the city’s share of a $15 million state project to widen South Seguin Road (FM 1516), one of

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Les Mills launch | July 16

several slated to begin in the city.

Last year as part of the city’s strategic plan, Converse’s Loop 1604 Commercial Corridor Study outlined several zones for future residential and commercial activity. In September, the city reduced its tax rate by 4 cents per $100 assessed property valuation, and a $19.6 million bond approved by voters in November will fund lifestyle improvements, which include a new animal-control facility, enriching city parks and creating new ones.

“Following our strategic plan and working together with our citizens are the keys to success here in Converse,” Suarez said.

IT SHOULD BE SOMETHING THAT WILL ATTRACT FOLKS FROM AROUND THE COUNTRY, AND CERTAINLY THOSE HERE IN TEXAS.

Contact the Schertz Y for more information.

JOHN DANTE VICE-PRESIDENT AND GENERAL MANAGER OF PAPA DANTE’S

SCHERTZ FAMILY YMCA 621 Westchester • 210.619.1900 • ymcasatx.org

SUMMER SALE!

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Routine Eye Exams - New $75 orig. $100

Ken Kikuchi, O.D.

Therapeutic Optometrist Optometric Glaucoma Specialist

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A Palette of Possibilities.

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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

21

SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM

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

Doggone good treats promised at HunniSnax BARKery & Boutique

by COLLETTE ORQUIZ

S

CHERTZ — Whether sweet or savory, HunniSnax BARKery & Boutique has gourmet dog treats to help canine masters both spoil their four-legged friends and keep them healthy.

Storeowner Cara Beth Hewitt spent 22 years as a geologist before opening HunniSnax. She formed the idea after developing a “cult

following” at area farmers markets for her canine-friendly baked goods.

The shop debuted May 14 at 17323 Interstate 35 North, Suite 108; the shop’s moniker reflects a nickname Hewitt’s grandchildren gave her.

“I couldn’t ask for a better retirement career,” Hewitt said.

“Seriously, I get to make dog treats and play with puppies every day, all day long. It’s the best career ever.”

She gives her love to two “senior citizen rescue dogs” — Ginger, a black Labrador retriever mix; and Mikey, a toy fox terrier.

The animals inspired her to bake.

HunniSnax offers 10 treat flavors available daily including apple ginger, cheddar, chicken, carob, sweet potato, peanut butter, veggie, herb, grainfree chicken and grain-free sweet potato. She also makes birthday cakes, muffins and smaller confections.

“Dogs are a lot like children and they know what they like and what they want,” Hewitt said.

Her treats don’t contain sugar, corn or preservatives. The scientist-turnedbaker makes the goodies in different sizes, and all flavors can be grain-free.

The boutique also offers items ranging from dog food to clothes.

Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. Sunday.

HUNNISNAX BARKERY & BOUTIQUE 17323 Interstate 35 North, Suite 108 in Schertz For more, call 646-7629 or visit www.hunnisnax.com or facebook.com/ hunnisnax, or follow #spoilthemhealthy

TOPMOST PHOTO: HunniSnax BARKery & Boutique owner Cara Beth Hewitt (right), pictured with daughter Savannah, said her baked treats for canines developed a cult following at farmers markets, so she decided to open a store. ABOVE: The Pooch House is a mobile pet boutique that also sells dog slings and clothes at HunniSnax. Photos

by Collette Orquiz

SEALING WOOD, FLAGSTONE & PEBBLESTONE

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Cleaning & Sealing Patios and Decks for 28 years...

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www.deckandpatiocare.com Call 210.822.9147

Proudly Serving Cibolo, Schertz, & Surrounding Area.

Come for a free orthodontic consultation at our brand-new, state-of-the-art orthodontic office.

Dr. Dima Kalakech (Dr. K) provides customized treatment plans in a warm, nurturing environment.

$60 OFF

With over a decade of experience creating beautiful smiles in the greater San Antonia area, you can be confident that Dr. K will provide you with a smile that you will be proud to embrace.

Paint. Drink. Have fun.

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Orthodontics for Children, Teens, and Adults

e. U e o d e L O C L .

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Free Orthodontic Consultation Insurance Accepted • lnvisalign & lnvisalign Teen • Payment Plans Available • Preventive & Early Orthodontic •

Cla asse es are $35 & $45 per se essiion n

See upcoming classes and register online at: www.pinotspalette.com/schertz/events

Traditional & Clear Braces

• •

Treatment (Age 7 and Above)

Pinot’s Palette Schertz 6051 FM 3009, Ste. 233 Schertz, TX 78154

210-920-4077

(Valid or Regular classes only. Exppires 07/31/16)

www.myembraceorthodontics.com I 210-253-2424

22

JUNE 20 - JULY 18, 2016

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

5000 Baptist Health Road, Ste 117 Schertz, TX 78145 Main Office: 210-626-8201 • Fax: 210-617-7985

WOUND CARE SERVICES

• Diabetic Foot-Leg Ulcers • Soft Tissue Infections • Arterial Wounds • Venous Ulcers • Necrotic Insect Bites • Traumatic Wounds • Burn Wounds • Surgical Wounds

Wound Healing Associates (WHA) leads the way in providing comprehensive wound care management throughout the South Central Texas region. WHA strives to ensure dedicated, specialized and compassionate care to all patients, enabling them to optomize a quality of life free from painful and debilitating wounds.

(Now Accepting New Patients)

Roxy Sports Bar

Open 7 days a week from 2pm-2am

Kitchen now open

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Military & service industry discounts

Daily Drink Specials!

We have the MLB package!Watch every baseball game here...17 HDTVS!

2801 Pat Booker Rd., Universal City 78148

facebook.com/roxysportsbar

Happy Hour every day from 2pm-8pm, Nightly Specials every night start at 8pm.

210-267-2747

Brunch 11 to 3 Sat & Sun Dinner 5 to 10 Wed to Sunday

Restaurant & Wedding Venue

THE BEST KEPT SECRET IN SAN ANTONIO.

8 3 0 -9 9 8 0 -8 8033

27315 FM 3009, San Antonio, Texas 78266 | www.OakValleyVineyardsRestaurant.com

Selections such as the mangonadas and pickled lime cups with nieve (above), or frozen fruit and water often billed as a Latin American sorbet, and a watermelon bowl (below) are offered at the Snack Attack Ice Cream store, just in time for summer's heat. Courtesy photos

Snack Attack Ice Cream features frosty freshness

by COLLETTE ORQUIZ

C

ONVERSE — A fusion of Central and North American tastes at Snack Attack Ice Cream helps to create cool and original treats, the owner believes.

“We’re here to create things that haven’t been done before. We always have our twist to everything,” said proprietor Alex Morales.

Snack Attack Ice Cream opened in April at 707 S. Seguin Road in a century-old building. Morales said the place had a lot of potential, but it took a year to get up and running.

From mangonadas to smoothies and milkshakes, every item on the menu is made individually and right in front of the customer to showcase its freshness, the owner said.

When making a dish, the staff uses only minimal amounts from cans and stays away from syrups. The aguas frescas (fruit

water) and nieve (frozen fruit with water) are made with the freshest ingredients.

“I sell stuff and make things that I would want to eat,” Morales said.

Customers can expect an exciting and friendly environment with seating both indoors and outdoors, he added.

Hours are noon to 9 p.m.

Monday through Friday and 1:309 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

SNACK ATTACK ICE CREAM 707 S. Seguin Road in Converse For more, call 802-5606 or visit facebook.com/snackattacktx

Savings on New Batteries Heavy Duty • Marine • Recreational Vehicles We Recycle Household Batteries

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Senior Citizens Discount Day 15% On Services

Thursday

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Enrollment Limited, Sign g Up p Now! MUSICAL THEATRE CAMPS

SUMMER DANCE CLA LASSES ALL AGES Newborn to Adult July 13-July 30 Mon-Thurs and Saturdays Ballet · Tap · HipHop · Jazz Folklorico · Acro Tumbling Zumba · Flamenco · Scottish Highland More!

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AUGUST 1-5 & 8-12 Mon-Fri 9am-5pm Intermediate-Advance ed Students (on pointe) Ages 11-Older Two Week intensive for sttude ents who aspire to train in a very focused ballet environment AUGUST 8-12 Mon-Fri 9am-4:30pm Beginner-Intermediate Studentts (not yet on pointe) One week intensive for young ballet studen nts to continue developing their overall technique. technique *TThe Symposium classes are taught by professionals who are degreed or have professional stage knowledge and experience. See our website for more information and class prrices.

Home Of the Alamo City ty y Dance Company 11210 Disco St. • San n Antonio, TX 78216 210-495-2787 | ww ww w w.SASPA.org

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6 hours of FUN and acting, singing, dancing, stage direction & choreography necessary to be in a professional production – Mon-Fri 10am-4pm AGES 11-OLDER July 11-15 The Music Ma an July 25-29 Hairspray

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

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

At Gillman Subaru San Antonio, we know the value of loyalty. Our three generations of family dealerships have thrived in Texas since 1938, thanks to your support. That’s why it makes us proud to say, Way to Go.

$

FREE

CHECK ENGINE LIGHT DIAGNOSIS

24.95

OIL CHANGE

Repairs and wiring diagnosis extra. Must present coupon when order is written.

Some restrictions may apply. See dealer for details. Not valid with any other offer.

Offer expires 12/31/16

Valid at Gillman Subaru San Antonio only.

Six-cylinder and diesel additional cost.

Synthetic oil additional cost. Up to 5 quarts of oil included. Plus shop supplies, taxes, and administrative fees.Please present coupon at service write-up. May not be combined with any other offer or discount.

Offer expires 12/31/16.

We Service All Makes and Models!

We Service All Makes and Models!

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2016 Subaru Outback

2016 Subaru Forester

2016 Subaru Impreza

2016 Subaru Legacy

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GillmanSubaru.com

4204 GARDENDALE STE. 201 SAN ANTONIO, TX 78229

Gillman Subaru San Antonio 16048 Interstate 35 North Selma, TX 78154 (855) 322-9184