PG.18 STONE OAK INFRASTRUCTURE UPDATE
Traffic signal to help at crowded intersection PG. 06 HAPPENING LOCAL
MEDICAL SECTION
PAGES 12-15
SEE WHAT’S NEW IN DERMATOLOGY & OPHTALMOLOGY
PG.21 BUY LOCAL
VOL. 3, ISSUE 2
JUNE 27 - JULY 25, 2016
THE LANDING AT STONE OAK
Stay up-to-date on all the neighborhood happenings with this handy calendar
Facility dedicated to memory care reopens, becomes part of the Franklin Park community
PG.22 EAT LOCAL
PG. 05 TALK LOCAL It may not be in your neighborhood yet, but oak wilt is a serious malady that must be stopped before it takes root
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COMMUNITY NEWS
SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF STONE OAK
ENCINO PARK
FAR NORTH
78258 78259 78260 78261
LOCAL COMMENTARY
Throwing Texas culture a curveball? by SUSAN YERKES
T
he planning and publicity bandwagon is up and rolling for the city’s big 300th birthday in 2018.
STONE OAK GIRDS FOR DEADLY TREE DISEASE PG.16 Krier sponsoring update to 2010 San Antonio ordinance
PAGE 19
Debate over safety of city’s off-leash dog parks rears its head after woman’s pooch is killed by another canine on the North Side
San Antonio 300 will be a “once-in-a-lifetime endeavor that will be celebrated over the course of a calendar year,” according to the official Tricentennial Commission website. It will be a great opportunity to showcase and appreciate the rich, colorful mix of folks and folkways that makes San Antonio such a special place. The University of Texas at San Antonio Institute of Texan Cultures, in the heart of the rapidly redeveloping Hemisfair, would seem a perfect jumping off point for citywide festivities. Born as the Texas State Exhibits Building for the original HemisFair ’68 (the 1968 World’s Fair), it was turned over to the University of Texas System in 1969. Containing exhibits, collections and archives of groups who have helped shape our state, it’s both
BASEBALL continues on pg. 04
2
JUNE 27 - JULY 25, 2016
DELIVERING QUALITY AND INTEGRITY.
FROM THE EDITOR
SINCE 1954.
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EDITORIAL Executive Editor Thomas Edwards Managing Editor Will Wright News Staff Collette Orquiz and Bain Serna Contributing Writers Ron Aaron Eisenberg, Gaby Galindo, Eric Moreno, Arthur Schechter and Susan Yerkes ART Creative Director Florence D. Edwards Contributing Photographer Rudy B. Ornelas ADVERTISING Account Manager Amber Montemayor
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City revises annexation plan
S
an Antonio city staffers on June 15 announced a scaled-back plan that would limit north U.S. 281 annexation to commercial areas and delay adding residential neighborhoods until 2034. It was welcome news to Stone Oak residents opposed to the city’s previous plan, including District 9 Councilman Joe Krier. “I have been concerned about the annexation plan since the day it first came out,” he said. “I just don’t think we have enough money in the budget right now to provide adequate fire and police protection, streets and drainage for the people who already live in District 9 – much less adding (more) people to the district.” Krier and other council members say they’ll review the newest plan – which dramatically revises previous initiatives to annex five unincorporated Bexar County areas. Dropped entirely from consideration is the eastern Interstate 10 corridor, because of the cost involved. Krier vowed to keep an eye on any arrangement that calls for north 281 residential annexation. “I’d want to see which neighborhoods and where they are,” he said. The council could decide by August or early September, when it finalizes the comprehensive plan.
WILL WRIGHT MANAGING EDITOR ON THE COVER: Though Stone Oak remains free of dreaded oak-wilt disease, experts say it’s on the way. District 9 Councilman Joe Krier wants a San Antonio provision similar to Hollywood Park’s that prohibits trimming trees from spring to early summer, as seen on this sign. See story on page 18. Photos by Rudy B. Ornelas
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BASEBALL continues from pg. 01 a fascinating museum and important source of material for Texas educators. It seems ironic that as the ITC nears its own 50-year mark, its own future is highly uncertain. This spring, speculation mounted when Mayor Ivy Taylor announced San Antonio’s interest in a downtown baseball stadium, whereupon San Antonio Missions owner David Elmore said he’s committed to trading his club, a Double-A Texas League affiliate, for a Triple-A team (one level below Major League Baseball) if this occurs. Taylor and other movers and shakers have repeatedly mentioned UTSA’s Hemisfair Park Campus as one of their top potential locales. So in May, when the University of Texas at San Antonio issued a formal Request for Qualifications regarding developers looking to lease those 14.7 acres of hot Hemisfair real estate, the rumors really escalated. The plan, according to the RFQ, could be for (a) some or all of the grounds around the ITC, (b) some or all of the grounds and part of the ITC building, or (c) the
Amid speculation San Antonio could someday be home to a Triple-A baseball team, there also is talk a future ballpark could be located where the Institute of Texan Cultures has stood for nearly five decades. Columnist Susan Yerkes wonders whether this would be a hit or a miss for San Antonio? Courtesy photo
demolition of the familiar structure. However, the RFQ is also worded to make clear the institute will survive in some form. It stipulates that any developer who wants to cash in on the whole prime parcel of property would have to also supply land for a new ITC building in one of several central downtown locations, or along Museum Reach on Broadway, as well as fund construction of a new ITC building. UTSA’s move was not prompted by the idea of a baseball stadium. It’s an attempt to find funding to support the institute’s mission, as state initiatives for
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higher education progressively shrink. Consider this brief, telling timeline: In 1991, there were 120 full-time ITC employees. By 2011, the number decreased to 77. Today, it’s 40. Without new money from somewhere, survival would seem difficult. A UTSA memo to ITC employees stressed that any accepted deal “could help generate income for the ITC to support new top-tier exhibits, programs and special events.” Might such an undertaking include a baseball stadium, and if it does,
should we exchange Texan culture for a baseball culture just one step up on the minor league rung, as the most vocal critics have charged? That would be quite the squeeze play. For starters, Elmore is clear that a downtown stadium is a prerequisite to attracting Triple-A baseball to town. There’s no guarantee voters would approve bonds for the edifice, which could cost the city and county $75 million or more. Besides, although Wolff Stadium, the Missions’ current home, may be halfway to Castroville, the squad has a long and hallowed San Antonio history. Many diehard fans would rather wait a few years, when a major league bid is deemed more realistic. What comes of all the wheeling and dealing, and whether the outcome is good or bad, varies widely depending on who’s speaking. The first inning has just begun. Let’s just pray for a home run for the history books. Yerkes wears a replica 1934 San Antonio Missions cap — the kind of artifact that can be found in the Institute of Texan Cultures. syerkes@localcommunitynews.com
5
SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM
OUR TURN Views and opinions about your community
Time to trim oak wilt
O
ak-wilt disease is a pernicious malady reminding us humans we are not all-powerful masters of the environment. Nor does it respect geography or income. Nearly every San Antonio-area community has grappled with the arboreal affliction or will face it soon. Arborists say the problem has the potential to worsen. Yet, all isn’t lost. There are proven solutions — though no real cure — to contain the scourge and keep it from ravaging neighborhoods. If not dealt with early on, oak-wilt mitigation costs can reach into tens of thousands of dollars
and leave yards looking like war zones. Some cities are taking a very aggressive approach to keep the beetle-borne disease from branching out. On the North Side where oak wilt continues to menace trees, District 9 Councilman Joe Krier is pushing to make the city’s mitigation efforts tougher. He wants to prohibit city brush collection from Feb. 1 to July 1 — the period when fungal mats usually form on oaks. At the same time, the sap beetles spreading the fungus are most active. Krier is also promoting a public-awareness campaign. Other cities might wish to follow San Antonio’s proactive example, unless they already have an oakwilt mitigation program. No matter what, left unchecked the problem threatens regional trees, diminishes property values and lowers the quality of life. -The Local Community News editorial board includes Harry Lees, Gregg Rosenfield and Thomas Edwards.
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JUNE 27 - JULY 25, 2016
HAPPENING LOCAL
Plan your month with our calendar of upcoming events in the community.
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EXPLORING FOSSILS Discover paleontology with 28 “Dinosaur George” in the Encino Branch Library meeting room, 2515 E. Evans Road, at 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. Tickets for the event go on sale beginning June 21. For more, call 207-9250.
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author and community advocate Kathryn Clark Childers; wealth-management adviser Elizabeth Crawford; and Bexar County Sheriff Susan Parmaleau. The JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa, 23808 Resort Parkway, hosts the proceedings from 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. For registration costs and more, visit www.northsachamber.com or call Wendy Thomas, program manager, at 384-7724. PATRIOTIC SPEAKER As part of Fourth of July 2, 3 weekend activities, come to Summit Christian Center, 2575 Marshall
JULY
HAPPENING continues on pg. 07
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SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM HAPPENING continues from pg. 06 Road, and hear from former Navy SEAL Chad Williams, who served multiple tours in the Philippines, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Iraq. Speeches are 5 p.m. Saturday and 10:30 a.m. Sunday. For more, call 402-0565 or visit www.summitsa.com. GOSPEL MUSIC Dove-award JULY winner, The Crabb Family, 3 performs a free concert from 6:30-8 p.m. at Cornerstone Church, 18755 Stone Oak Parkway. For more, call 490-1600 or visit sacorrnerstone.org. ENCINO PARK OVER 50 CLUB folks a half-century 5, 19 For old, come to Encino Park Community Center, 1923 Encino Rio St., at 11:30 a.m. the first and third Tuesday of the month for fun activities including tours, dinner gatherings and events. For more, call Dyan Montesclaros at 481-7890.
JULY
LOCAL IS WHERE YOU ARE. LOCAL IS WHAT WE DO.
TABLE TENNIS ANYONE? Pingpong for adults is 9, 23 available at meeting room B in the Parman Branch Library, 20735 Wilderness Oak Road, from 1-3 p.m. All skill levels are welcome. For more, contact Tim Johnson at 207-2703 or timothy.johnson@sanantonio.gov.
JULY
ENCINO CINEMA PRESENTS: JULY MATINEE 10, 24 SUNDAY Encino Branch Library, 2515 E. Evans Road, will show a free film suitable for the whole family at 2 p.m. For movie titles and more, call 2079250 or contact Barbara Kwiatkowski at barbara.kwiatkowski@sanantonio.gov. BOOK IT Parman Branch JULY Library’s meeting room 12 B, 20735 Wilderness Oak Road, hosts “Altered Books: Books to Art” from 6-8 p.m. Watch Spare Parts’ Mary Cantu turn old books into works of art. Registration is required. For more, contact Tim Johnson at 207-2703 or timothy.johnson@sanantonio.gov.
SEW BEE IT The club meets on the second Tuesday of the month 12 at Encino Park Community Center, 1923 Encino Rio St., from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Please bring a power strip or extension cord. For more, email Sylvia Jolet at sjolet@earthlink.net or call 497-3383.
JULY
ENCINO PARK GAME DAY Come to Encino Park 14 Community Center, 1923 Encino Rio St., at 1:30 p.m. on the second Thursday of the month for various gamerelated activities. Non-Encino Park residents are welcome, too. For more, contact Dyan Montesclaros at 481-7890.
JULY
BEAT THE HEAT – BEAT A DRUM 14 “TamboRhythms” is all about drums. Children and caregivers can come feel the music in Parman Branch Library, 20735 Wilderness Oak Road, for a 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. performance. Required tickets for this event are available on a first-come, first-served basis beginning 10 a.m. July 9. For more, call 207-2703.
JULY
AGE IS JUST A NUMBER The Encino Older Adults Club 15 explores the Seven Wonders of the World on the third Friday of the month at 2 p.m. in Encino Branch Library, 2515 E. Evans Road. Admission is free. For more, call 207-9250 or email Barbara Kwiatkowski at barbara.kwiatkowski@sanantonio.gov.
JULY
IT ISN’T EASY BEING GREEN Keep it green from 4-5 19 p.m. when naturalist Tom Kinsey visits the Encino Branch Library meeting room, 2515 E. Evans Road, with his critters. Tickets for this event will be available beginning 5 p.m. July 12. For more, call 207-9250.
JULY
PAPERCRAFTING AND SCRAPBOOK CLUB 23 Visit Parman Branch Library, 20735 Wilderness Oak Road, from 1-6 p.m. on the fourth Saturday of the month for an afternoon of paper therapy. Begin with a demonstration of
JULY
HAPPENING continues on pg. 08
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a technique, layout idea or project, and then work on your own paper projects such as cardmaking or scrapbooking. All expertise levels welcome. Registration is required. For more, call 207-2703. DISTRICT 9 NEIGHBORHOOD ALLIANCE Meetings are usually 27 held on the fourth Wednesday of the month at 7 p.m. in Stone Oak Methodist Hospital, 1139 E. Sonterra Blvd., Classroom No. 1. The hospital is just off U.S. 281 North. For more, call Art Downey, alliance president, at 497-8873.
JULY
TEEN TIME Parman Branch TUESDAYS Library, 20735 Wilderness Oak Road, hosts a potpourri of activities for teenagers, 13-18. Everything from board games to crafting and cooking could be on the agenda from 6-8 p.m. Have fun, chill out and make new friends. For more, contact 207-2703. SO, YOU THINK YOU CAN SEW WEDNESDAYS For an afternoon of advice and conversation leaving you in stitches, Encino Branch Library, 2515 E. Evans Road, hosts experienced sewing enthusiasts from 12:30-3 p.m. The Hand Bee is a close-knit group of adults and seniors. For more, call 207-9250. DOG-EARED BOOKS WEDNESDAYS Come to Encino Branch Library, 2515 E. Evans Road, from 3-4 p.m. and read to a certified therapy dog. Bring your favorite animal story or choose one off the shelves. Even children not yet reading can narrate a wordless book. For more, call 207-9250.
CATAPULT YOUR CAREER WEDNESDAYS The Encino Branch Library meeting room, 2515 E. Evans Road, will host a free 5 p.m. employment seminar. Presented will be a professional-development lecture by a career coach focusing on career exploration and discovery, personal branding, job targeting, job-search strategies, skill development, networking, resumes, LinkedIn profile writing and interviewing. Space is limited. For more and to register, call Barbara Kwiatkowski at 207-9250 or email barbara.kwiatkowski@sanantonio.gov. SHAPING UP FOR A NEW YOU SATURDAYS While Encino Branch Library, 2515 E. Evans Road, usually exercises your mind, come work your body from 10-11 a.m. A Parks & Recreation Department instructor will lead a class in low-impact circuit training. This session in the meeting room is designed mostly for older individuals. For more, call 207-9250. JOIN THE FITNESS KICK SATURDAYS Encino Branch Library, 2515 E. Evans Road, tests your body at noon and 12:30 p.m. Learn martial arts from a third-degree black-belt instructor. This program teaches basics while improving strength, flexibility, conditioning and balance. Coordinated by Fitness in the Park, sessions are free and families are encouraged to participate together. The 30-minute class is limited to 30 attendees. For more, call 207-9250.
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SALOCALLOWDOWN.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. THE LANDING AT STONE OAK, 19110
Huebner Road, is a specialized assistedliving and memory-care facility providing all-inclusive support for seniors and patients suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related illnesses. Open 24/7, with office hours 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. For more, call 479-0155 or visit franklinpark.org/ landing-stone-oak. (See story on page 21)
2. IGGY’S ITALIAN ICE, 3107 TPC Parkway, Suite 103, offers Italian ice, ice cream dishes and other desserts prepared in the store. Hours are noon to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday; noon to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and 1-7 p.m. Sunday. For more, call 437-4996 or visit facebook.com/IggysItalianIceSanAntonio. (See story on page 22)
Address of local business Name of local business
3. COLDWELL BANKER-D’ANN HARPER REALTORS, North Central/Stone Oak Sales Office, 18756 Stone Oak Parkway, Suite 101, offers real estate and marketing services for buyers and sellers. Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday and by appointment. For more, call Realtor Bob Brown at 262-1250; the office at 483-7131 or 483-7070; or visit cbharper.com.
IN OTHER NEWS REAGAN HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES Nicolas Robalin and Andrew Xiang recently numbered among 25 Bexar County-area students who received acclaim in this year’s Martin Luther King Jr. Scholarship Program. The award annually distributes thousands of dollars in scholarships
for college tuitions of local students – regardless of ethnicity – in celebrating the legacy of the late civil-rights leader. This year, the commission awarded multiyear scholarships, alongside single-year grants. THE JOHNSON HIGH SCHOOL JAGUARS finished as runner-up in the University Interscholastic League’s Class 6A baseball tournament, held in Round Rock June 10-11. The Jaguars, making their first appearance at state, defeated Amarillo 2-1 in the June 10 semifinal before falling to Dallas Jesuit College Prep 6-2 in the June 11 final at Dell Diamond. They finished the season 32-6. Earning all-tournament honors were junior pitcher Richard Gilbert; senior second-baseman Yuuki Chilcutt; junior shortstop Dalton Shuffield; and senior outfielder Jacob Corner.
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SAN ANTONIO WATER SYSTEM May 27 formally filed documents with the Public Utility Commission of Texas, alleging a petition seeking to rescind recent SAWS rate
LOWDOWN continues on pg. 10
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LOWDOWN continues from pg. 09
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A SMALL TURNOUT OF VOTERS decided May 24 runoff elections stemming from March 1 party primary races. San Antonio Police Department veteran Javier Salazar, who toppled Andy Lopez in the Democratic runoff for Bexar County sheriff, will face Republican incumbent Susan Pamerleau in November’s general election. Precinct 3 Constable Mark Vojvodich defeated Nathan Buchanan for the GOP nod to oppose Democrat Ed Coleman this November. Political newcomer Kyle Biedermann of Fredericksburg ended the four-term run of GOP incumbent District 73 state Rep. Doug Miller of New Braunfels. Biedermann is unopposed in November. Mark Reynolds downed fellow deputy Brent Paullus in the GOP runoff to succeed 20-year Comal County Sheriff Bob Holder. Reynolds will meet Democrat Fred Riter and possibly write-in independent D.J. Seeger, who had until mid-June to formally declare for the fall ballot.
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Photo: Bob Owen/San Antonio Express-News/ZUMAPRESS
hikes and a state law prohibiting appeals of City Council’s utility-rate decisions lacked necessary signatures. Organizers behind the petition, filed with PUC in late March, claim the document included nearly 6,100 names from residents in Stone Oak, Helotes, Alamo Ranch and other unincorporated Bexar County areas. However, SAWS officials said their verification process invalidated thousands due to inaccurate addresses and account information. PUC is continuing a separate review of the document, which must total the required 5,500 autographs for further consideration. Movement organizers had until June 17 to file a response to SAWS, which in turn had until June 24 to file a motion for dismissal. Petitioners will have until July 1 to file a response for the case to proceed for consideration by an administrative law judge in early July.
THE TEXAS TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION May 26 approved highoccupancy vehicle lanes for planned expansions of Interstate 10 and U.S. 281. Both projects were originally set for tollways, before additional state and federal funds became available. The Alamo Area Metropolitan Planning Organization approved a non-tolled recommendation to include an HOV component providing
LOWDOWN continues on pg. 11
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conveniently located in your community LOWDOWN continues from pg. 10 lanes for buses, carpools and other highoccupancy traffic. The I-10 expansion will add a free lane and an HOV lane in each direction between La Cantera Parkway and Ralph Fair Road. Plans will expand 281 north of Loop 1604 to Stone Oak Parkway into a six-lane route, also with single HOV lanes in each direction. The Texas Department of Transportation will partner with VIA Metropolitan Transit to determine HOV rules. STEUBING RANCH ELEMENTARY SCHOOL FIFTH-GRADE STUDENTS Aspen Sollars and Malena Earls recently earned honors in this year’s Celebrate America writing program, “Why I am Glad America is a Nation of Immigrants.” For pupils from public schools, Aspen won first place and Malena finished third. Both received certificates of recognition, and Aspen also got a $100 grant and a replica Statue of Liberty. They read their winning essays during a May 24 naturalization ceremony at Edgewood Theatre of Performing Arts.
Sponsored nationally by the American Immigration Council, the program was facilitated locally by the law firm of De Mott, McChesney, Curtright & Armendáriz LLP.
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JUNE 27 - JULY 25, 2016
MEDICAL SECTION What’s new in dermatology?
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kin, the human body’s largest organ, is much more than a slipcover. From treating wrinkles and rashes to serious diseases, dermatologists monitor developments benefiting those with skin problems, from purely aesthetic to life-threatening.
In recent years, new immunotherapy drugs have shown promise countering advanced melanomas, according to Dr. Richard Usatine, professor of dermatology and cutaneous surgery, and family and community medicine, at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. “We have two new oral medicines to treat basal cell carcinomas that have either metastasized or are too large to remove surgically,� Usatine said. “In basal cell nevus syndrome, people start getting these as young as 18. One of my patients had over 250 basal cell carcinomas, and this is the first really good treatment. Before, she was like Swiss cheese from
all the surgeries. It’s amazing.� He added, “There are also some new treatments for advanced melanomas, even if they have metastasized to other areas of the body, which give some patients new hope. In fact, when (President) Jimmy Carter had melanoma that metastasized to his brain and his liver, he received some of these new medicines and is currently in remission. For the moment, they have saved his life.� There is other progress, too, the physician said. “Dermoscopy — using a special light which magnifies the skin and uses polarized light with a cross-polarized filter — allows doctors to see into the skin, and see skin cancers earlier and more accurately; and there are also new oral and injectable medicines for psoriasis,� Usatine added. Dr. Stephen Miller, a board-certified dermatologist often involved in clinical trials of new medicines, participated in the latest psoriasis-treatment studies. “In the last 10 years, new biologic or systemic agents for psoriasis have gotten more sophisticated, with higher
DERMATOLOGY continues on pg. 13
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MEDICAL SECTION
DERMATOLOGY continues from pg. 12
improvement rates. Enbrel and Humira were some of the first. Newer drugs such as Cosentyx and Taltz can work quickly with high sustained clearing rates up to 95 percent,” Miller said. He also sees many patients with rosacea. “About three years ago, I did a clinical trial on a new topical agent now available commercially as ivermectin. It’s the most effective rosacea treatment I’ve seen in a long time. We also do IPL, a laser-like treatment, to improve some of the redness,” he said. Micro-needling — tiny, deep skin pricks to stimulate healing — is gaining
popularity for attacking acne scars, small wrinkles and hyperpigmentation. It’s usually cheaper, and with less recovery time, than laser resurfacing, Miller said. “Our concept of how you make people look better has changed. As we age, the fat pads in the mid-face move down and separate, causing folds and sagging,” he said. “Think of your face as a balloon — as we get older it loses some air. The latest injectable fillers use hyaluronic acid, modified to have a lot of supporting power for strategic areas, to restore the mid-face, improving the look of the lower face and jowls. A biostimulator called Sculptra can stimulate collagen production and enhance remodeling and ‘re-volumization.’”
THINK OF YOUR FACE AS A BALLOON — AS WE GET OLDER IT LOSES SOME AIR DR. STEPHEN MILLER, BOARD-CERTIFIED DERMATOLOGIST
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OPHTHALMOLOGY continues on pg. 15
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OPHTHALMOLOGY continues from pg. 14 exciting for our field,” said Dr. Sharon Sra, a board-certified ophthalmologist and fellow of the American Academy of Ophthalmology. “For example, laserassisted cataract surgery is now a reality. It allows for more accurate and precise surgical outcomes, while potentially making cataract surgery safer.” Sra’s colleague, Dr. David Shulman, a former president of the Bexar County Medical Society and a Hall of Fame Award recipient of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, echoed his colleague’s sentiments, including an appreciation for recent operating procedures. “Laser-cataract surgery was introduced two years ago into our practice and it is the latest advance in ophthalmic surgery,” he said. Developments in lens technology for prescription eyewear also sparks excitement among ophthalmologists,
officials said. Intraocular lenses, for example, are implanted directly in the eye and used to treat cataracts or myopia. These devices make people less reliant on glasses and cataract surgeries, medical experts said. Dr. Mark Trevino, an associate professor of ophthalmology at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio and a clinical professor at the University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine, believes intraocular lenses, plus new surgical techniques for glaucoma, will have great benefits for many patients. “Minimally invasive surgeries are also controlling glaucoma at an early stage when used in combination with cataract surgery,” said Trevino, who is part of Ophthalmology Associates of San Antonio, in the Nix Medical Center at 414 Navarro St., Suite 401. “Patients now are able to have a few extra steps during their cataract surgery, and in many cases, eliminate the need for glaucoma drops.”
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OAK WILT continues from pg. 01
WAYS TO REDUCE THE SPREAD OF OAK WILT
County oak-wilt cases keep rising
• Minimize pruning oak trees from Feb. 1 to July 1, when the oak-wilt fungus is most active • Prune trees during the hottest and/or coldest times of the year – during the middle of summer or late fall and early winter • Paint (cover) all cuts and wounds on oak trees within 30 minutes • Remove red oaks identified with oak wilt • Never transport unseasoned firewood from diseased red oaks • Make sure tree specialists have valid city tree-maintenance licenses and proper training
by WILL WRIGHT
S
o far Stone Oak trees are free of oak wilt, but with the disease in neighborhoods just a stone’s throw away, officials are getting ready for the battle if it comes. Oak wilt is an infectious and usually incurable malady caused by a beetle-borne fungus that invades and disables waterconducting systems in vulnerable trees. While the disease has not taken root in the Stone Oak area, it is inflicting significant damage in other areas on the North Side, plus regions of northwest Bexar County – and if unchecked, will continue to spread, according to experts. “Red oaks and live oaks are the two species of trees most susceptible to the
If you suspect oak wilt in your neighborhood, contact the Texas A&M Forest Service at 494-1742. For more on oak wilt in Texas, visit texasoakwilt.org or texasforestservice.tamu.edu. Sources: City of San Antonio; Texas A&M Forest Service
disease,” said Art Downey, Stone Oak Property Owners Association president. “I think a good 60-70 percent of our trees fall into that category. It would have a tremendous effect on the Stone Oak area if it were to spread into our neighborhoods.” District 9 Councilman Joe Krier has launched an offensive. He’s requesting City Council adopt a multipronged measure for combating oak wilt by revising city brush-collection periods, initiating a
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public-education campaign and enhancing involvement with city and state agencies. A Texas A&M Forest Service study in late April indicated 323 land parcels totaling 154 acres had been affected by oak wilt within city limits; 132 parcels on 59 acres in Hollywood Park; and 104 parcels on 80 acres in Helotes. Castle Hills and Leon Valley rank fourth and fifth, respectively, on the agency’s Bexar County compilation.
City Arborist Mark Bird said the update, “confirms that the largest location of oak wilt is in the northwest areas of the city, from Hollywood Park and Shavano Park; the Whispering Oaks and Great Northwest neighborhoods and others around SeaWorld.” Oak wilt, prevalent across Central Texas, can spread through the roots of infected trees when beetles carry the fungus to open tree wounds. Fungal mats, which develop under bark, major branches and trunks of infected trees, leave all oaks susceptible – with some species weaker than others. There is no known cure. Once in place, treatment methods are expensive, not guaranteed, and can range from trenching around the tree to removal. “Our focus is on prevention,” said Rod Sanchez, assistant director of the city’s Development Services Department. Once beetles are attracted to the sap and fungal mats on infected trees, they quickly propagate the disease to nearby trees. “We need to drive home the
OAK WILT continues on pg. 17
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SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM OAK WILT continues from pg. 16 message to people about what could happen,” Sanchez said. “It’s not just their trees they’re affecting, but possibly all the trees in the neighborhood.” Krier’s measure would update a 2010 city tree ordinance, and be the first to specifically address oak wilt. The Forest Service estimated monetary losses to individual property values due to diminished tree canopy cover stretched from $1,000 to nearly $21,000 in 2015. Krier said his proposal would eliminate city brush pickups from February through June, ask San Antonio Water System and City Public Service to educate customers on ways to protect their property, add another government arborist, and post oak-wilt updates on city and county websites. “We want to give (residents) an idea of where it is, how widespread it is, and how fast is it spreading,” said Krier, who expects the measure will be presented for committee consideration by early August. “Once we finalize the proposed ordinance, we’ll tour with city staffers
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to not only to the Stone Oak POA, but also to the District 9 Alliance, which comprises 64 homeowners associations in the district,” Krier said. “All of those will have materials to present to their residents and help spread the word.” Krier, who informed Stone Oak POA residents in April, said he will wait to deliver a final proposal after hearing from state officials, including a Texas A&M Forest Service project forestry specialist and master arborist Mark Duff, a Hollywood Park resident. “There are about 60 oak wilt spots in Bexar County that are in danger of spreading,” Duff said. The arborist said he witnessed a single case of the fungus in Hollywood Park grow from a single tree to envelop 55 nearby acres in five years. He noted similar fast-moving development in Helotes, Shavano Park and Hill Country Village. “I’ve been working oak wilt almost every day for 26 years, and the acreage and parcels (affected) in the Hill Country and Bexar County have almost doubled in size,” Duff added.
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A donation of $300,000 from the Stone Oak Property Owners Association will be used to fund a traffic signal and other improvements at the crowded intersection of Stone Oak Parkway and Arrow Hill Street. The move is praised by District 9 Councilman Joe Krier, who lauded the neighborhood group for helping with infrastructure upgrades. Photo by Rudy B. Ornelas
STONE OAK continues from pg. 01
Donation great example of self help, Krier says by WILL WRIGHT
I
nstead of waiting for the city to relieve traffic problems at a major intersection, Stone Oak residents have acted on their own.
San Antonio recently accepted a $300,000 donation from the Stone Oak Property Owners Association for transportation infrastructure improvements and a traffic signal at the often-crowded Stone Oak Parkway/ Arrow Hill Street intersection. “The city indicated it was something it would look at years in the future, but we wanted it now,” said Art Downey, POA president. “We agreed to pay for it, and they accepted.” City Council approved the payment June 2; construction is expected to start soon. “It should be operational by this fall,” Downey said. “They’ve already begun the initial survey and engineering work and should break ground in the near future.” He added the POA hadn’t previously
made such a hefty contribution to a city project, though it has taken active roles in other endeavors, such as installing additional sidewalks on streets leading to area elementary schools. POA-sponsored groups also maintain grass-covered medians on city streets. Downey said traffic congestion at the Stone Oak-Arrow Hill intersection has long been a thorn in the side of residents. “There’s currently a four-way stop sign there, which really slows down traffic on Stone Oak Parkway,” he said. “We felt a traffic light would dramatically improve things at the intersection, which has a retirement center on one side and a neighborhood on the other side.” District 9 Councilman Joe Krier lauded the monetary gift. “It was absolutely the finest demonstration of community selfhelp I’ve seen in my 2½ years on City Council,” he said. “We are used to having people come to City Council to ask for help on such projects.” He added, “It is very rare to have such a great neighborhood association such as Stone Oak’s to not only say they want the project, but have the money to pay for it. That’s almost unheard of – and my hat’s off to them for a job well done.” Earlier in the year, San Antonio Police Department traffic officers were posted at the four-way stop to test if alternatives such as a signal light
STONE OAK continues on pg. 19
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SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM STONE OAK continues from pg. 18 would work, said POA officials. According to local message boards, for some time residents have complained about the stop-and-start intersection traffic. Meanwhile, on June 7, the city announced another major agreement that could have a direct impact on the comings and goings of far North Side residents. Krier joined Mayor Ivy Taylor to herald the city’s purchase of 204 acres of green space and parkland located northwest of the Loop 1604-U.S. 281 intersection. For many decades, the ClassenSteubing family has owned the property situated over the Edwards Aquifer recharge zone and is one of the region’s last remaining undeveloped land parcels. “This acquisition would keep the land out of residential development,” Taylor said, adding it also will protect the aquifer, aid roadway development and assure area residents “that most of this beautiful, rugged green space remains untouched for generations to come.” On June 16, the council approved
the agreement, which will acquire the tract in two phases. The first, totaling 165 acres and $6.3 million, will receive $5.3 million in grants from the city’s conservation advisory board, and another $1 million from the city’s Hardy Oak Boulevard extension project. The remaining 39 acres, costing $3.8 million and projected to include green space, soccer fields and baseball diamonds, will likely be funded through the city’s 2017 bond. In March, San Antonio completed an $8.8 million expansion of Hardy Oak from Stone Oak Parkway through Knights Cross Drive. The ClassenSteubing purchase will complete Hardy Oak’s 1-mile gap leading to a tie-in with Huebner Road and ultimately a connection to 1604. Funding and timetables for those plans haven’t been determined. “We’re hoping (it) will eventually lead to the completion of Hardy Oak by 2020, which was the original target date,” Downey said. “That will considerably help our traffic situation.”
DOG PARK continues from pg. 01
Tip: Make sure dogs current on shots by RON AARON EISENBERG
T
he recent mauling death of a woman’s Pomeranian by another dog in Hardberger Park is raising questions about the safety of pets in city off-leash dog parks, with opinions evenly divided. Andrea, a 20-year-old who asked that her last name not be used, witnessed a horrific sight when her small pet, Paris, was attacked and killed by another canine in the Hardberger East dog park in February. “I screamed and screamed and begged for help,” she recalled. “We rushed Paris to a veterinary clinic but nothing could be done. She was dead.” The woman said she used to go
to the dog park all the time, but after seeing her cherished four-legged companion thrown into the air and ripped open, she vowed never again. While the episode is tragic, city officials said recorded instances of attacks in San Antonio dog parks are extremely rare. Animal Care Services received only three reports of dog bites in area dog parks from January 2015 through February 2016, said Shannon Sims, ACS field operations manager. One of those reports, he noted, was unconfirmed. The others involved a dog-to-dog attack and a dog-toperson incident. Neither was serious. “There may have been other incidents that were not reported to ACS,” said Sims, who believes dog parks are great for owners and their pets. “For folks who have high-energy dogs, I definitely support individuals taking them out to a park to burn off energy. It helps reduce aggression. Letting dogs interact and socialize at a
DOG PARK continues on pg. 20
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JUNE 27 - JULY 25, 2016
DOG PARK continues from pg. 19 dog park is a good thing,” Sims said. He encourages folks to get their dogs out into the parks. “In the long run, it creates a more stable animal,” he said. But Andrea said returning to a dog park, if she ever gets another dog, is not for her. She remains traumatized. “I’m not ready to adopt another dog,” Andrea said. Dog parks are indeed risky places, said some experts. “I don’t care for dog parks,” said professional dog trainer Karen Pearce. “You don’t know if the animals there have been vaccinated, you don’t know what they have. You also don’t know behaviors or how other people’s dogs will react to your dog or strangers.” An accident waiting to happen is how Pearce describes dog parks. “Part of the problem is too many people don’t really know their dogs or understand dog behavior,” she said.
“For example, if your dog is shy, other dogs in a park may gang up on her. And that is a prescription for disaster. It can lead to fear-biting by the shy dog and aggressive responses from other dogs.” According to the dog trainer, “Walking is probably the best form of exercise for you and your dog. Despite Pearce’s concerns, residents such as Michael Main enjoy the convenience of a nearby city dog park. “I am at a dog park pretty much every day — usually McAllister (Park) and on weekends at Hardberger,” he said. He offered some advice for folks thinking about visiting a dog park. “If you have never been to one and your dog hasn’t been around other dogs, go early in the morning when it’s not crowded,” Main said. “Try some of the smaller dog parks.” Another off-leash area is the dog park in Panther Springs Park, 22635 Wilderness Oak Road. Dog parks can help canines socialize, according to veterinarian Ashley Hagauer of Alamo Hills Animal Hospital.
Helping Children and Adults Breathe and Sleep Better Understanding Your Child’s Brain
Specialties: Pediatric Pulmonology • Pediatric Neurology Family Sleep Medicine Dr. Tarak Patel Lesley Vernor Pediatric Pulmonology NP Pediatric Pulmonology Dr. Kelly Smith Dr. Avie Grunspan Pediatric Pulmonology Sleep Medicine Dr. John Palmer Sarah Campana Pediatric Pulmonology NP Sleep Medicine Dr. Carter Richards Pediatric Neurology Main Locations: Shavano Park, Pond Hill Road Medical Center, Huebner Road
Satellite Locations: New Braunfels, Common Street Seguin, King Street Westover Hills, Highway 151
www.txmss.com • 210-249-5020
21
SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM
BUY LOCAL Learn more about newest purveyors of goods and services in your area
Round-the-clock care at The Landing at Stone Oak by COLLETTE ORQUIZ
T
he Landing at Stone Oak recently held a grand reopening after becoming a Franklin Park community. Dedicated to memory care, the development provides senior-living residences at 19110 Huebner Road where folks with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia and other cognitive conditions receive around-the-clock assistance. “We try to fulfill their lives, and give them a good quality of life, keep them happy, engaged and interactive,” said
Executive Director Cynthia Morris. The business opened in 2013, and then celebrated a second debut under Franklin Park in April, joining four others operated by the company. Morris said the facility offers several services including occupational and physical therapy, grooming, feeding, incontinence assistance, home health and hospice. Additionally, it serves therapeutic functions using music, pets and the senses. Residents can join clubs, participate in dancing and gardening, and enjoy a weekly outing as a part of the life-enrichment program. Supplied with everything from bed linens to a nightstand, the 67 rooms
The Landing at Stone Oak is staffed 24/7 so that all residents' needs are met at the memory-care facility, where the rooms are fully furnished, according to the staff. Courtesy photo
are fully furnished with semiprivate and private options available. Visitors are welcome at any time, day or night. Nurses and staff work 24/7. “We want to make sure that the resident has (his or her) specific needs met,” Morris said.
Office hours are 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.
THE LANDING AT STONE OAK 19110 Huebner Road For more, call 479-0155 or visit franklinpark.org/landing-stone-oak
Coverage for your most valuable possessions
Say hello to Mr. Handyman & goodbye to that “To-Do” list! Mr. Handyman is the most trusted and professional handyman you can call for all your home maintenance and repairs!
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This coupon is valid for $25 worth of services provided by Mr. Handyman.
Offer valid one time per household. Available at participating locations only. Not valid with any other offer. OFFER EXPIRES: 10/31/16
210-526-3880
www.mrhandyman.com
David Boyers, ChFC, MBA 18756 Stone Oak Parkway San Antonio, TX 78258 210-680-9887 www.farmersagent.com/dboyers
Visit my website for a FREE Quote!
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JUNE 27 - JULY 25, 2016
EAT LOCAL
Customers at Iggy’s Italian Ice (left) write their flavors on cups when ordering (far left), such as this gelato with strawberry delight ice cream in the middle and flavorings such as piña colada and Texas sunrise ice. Photos by Collette Orquiz
Learn about the newest neighborhood places for breakfast, lunch, dinner or drinks
Iggy’s Italian Ice keeping it frosty by GABY GALINDO
T
he opening of an Iggy’s Italian Ice at 3107 TPC Parkway continues the company’s plans for statewide expansion. In addition to the new local shop, the other Texas locations include San Angelo, Mansfield and Lubbock, according to owners Marc, Cody and Kerry Brown. The eatery, symbolized by a stylized iguana snacking on a frozen treat, serves a wide variety of gelati — Italian ice layered with homemade ice cream. Unlike frozen treats such as shaved
ice, Italian ice does not use flavored syrups. It is made by mixing and freezing fruit, sugar and water, creating a smooth consistency similar to a sorbet. The store offers 16 Italian-ice and 16 ice cream flavors, made fresh on-site. “It is a product that speaks for itself,” said Kerry Brown, who operates the stores with sons Marc and Cody. “Once people eat it, it sells itself. It’s just a good dessert.” To place orders, customers use Sharpies to specify their desired flavors and stacked arrangement on a cup. Small sizes, $3, contain three tiers, while the large, $5, boasts five concoctions. “I’m a chocolate-caramel kind of guy,” Brown said, “so I dig the salted caramel and the fudge brownie. That’s my favorite.”
For those unable to decide, try The Baller, which includes small scoops of every offering. Patrons can also peruse the store’s local artwork, available for purchase. “We do parties and school events, church functions and baseball games,” said Marc Brown. “Whatever people want, we try to accommodate.” Hours are noon to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, noon to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 1-7 p.m. Sunday.
IGGY’S ITALIAN ICE 3107 TPC Parkway For more, call 437-4996 or visit facebook.com/IggysItalianIceSanAntonio
- BYOB FRIDAY & SATURDAY BYOB (no corkage charge) Please join us for our
8th Annual Christmas in July Mercado Arts & Craft Fair STONE OAK & HUEBNER
19141 Stone Oak Pkwy, Ste 803
210-490-2011
BULVERDE & EVANS
22250 Bulverde Rd, Ste 114
210-490-2013
$5 off from
Valid until 7/31, only 1 Coupon per table (minimum order of $20, not Valid with other Coupon)
Friday, July 15, 2016, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. CHRISTUS Heritage Hall at The Village at Incarnate Word 4707 Broadway Street Over 30 artisans specializing in handmade, affordable gifts such as jewelry, crosses and other spiritual items, photography, artwork, wickless candles, stocking stuffers, ceramics, textiles, collectibles and much, much more! Help support some of our resident artisans!
Door prizes! Festive fiesta attire is encouraged! Complimentary refreshments! Entertainment and fellowship! Call (210)829-7561, ext. 114 for more information.
You can trust us to have the batteries, light bulbs & services you need! • FREE battery test & systems check • Nearly 60,000 batteries, light bulbs & related products • Buy Online, Pick Up In-Store • Cordless tool battery rebuilds
• Key fob and iPhone® battery installations • FREE car/truck battery recycling • Smartphone, tablet & iPod® repairs
GROCERIES AMERICAN • INDIAN-PAKISTANI & HALAL MEAT
Bring in Ad For
www.batteriesplus.com
Limit 3. Reg. price $7.99. Some makes, models and styles may be excluded. Offer valid on in-stock products at participating locations. Not valid with other offers or business pricing. Some exclusions may apply. Must present coupon in-store prior to purchase; not valid for online purchases. No cash value. See store for complete details. Expires 8.31.16. DP002
Off Any Regularly Priced Retail Item
Limit 2. Offer valid on in-stock products at participating locations. Not valid with other offers or business pricing. Some exclusions may apply. Not all device models are replaceable; see store for complete details. Must present coupon in-store prior to purchase; not valid for online purchases. No cash value. Expires 8.31.16. DP030
6 San Antonio Locations!
10.00
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Limit 2. Offer valid on in-stock products at participating locations. Not valid with other offers or business pricing. Some exclusions may apply. Not all device models are replaceable; see store for complete details. Must present coupon in-store prior to purchase; not valid for online purchases. No cash value. Expires 8.31.16. DP029
2815 N. Loop 1604 E.
11019 Culebra Rd.
(NW Military & Lockhill-Selma)
(Loop 1604 E. at Redland)
(Culebra at Westwood Loop)
119 SW Loop 410
1242 Austin Hwy.
6891 Bandera Rd.
(Loop 410 at 151)
(Alamo Hills Plaza)
(1.5 miles outside of Loop 410)
210-509-0103
Purchase
Mon-Fri 8 - 8, Sat 8 - 7, Sun 11 - 6
2277 NW Military Hwy.
210-308-0103
5% OFF OF $50
Off iPhone® Battery & Installation
210-496-0103 210-598-0003
LOTTO, BEER, CIGARETTES, AND MEAT NOT INCLUDED
210-688-6500 210-647-0103
© 2016 DURACELL, Bethel, CT 06801. Duracell is a registered trademark of Duracell U.S. Operations, Inc., used under license. All rights reserved.
Frozen Daiquiris & Margaritas to-go! craft beer jello shots soaked gummy bears variety of refreshing flavors 18866 Stone Oak Pkwy #105 San Antonio, TX 78258 210-919-6124 Hours of Operation: Mon. - Fri. 12pm-10pm Sat. 11am-12am • Sun. 12pm-9pm
21003 Encino Commons, Ste. 104, San Antonio, TX 78258 Evans Groceries: 210-495-2527
Book Your Party, End of Year or Summer Group Event NOW! (210) 697-JUMP www.Altitudesa.com 11075 IH-10 West Ste. 126 Located next to the Regal 14 Movie Theater in Huebner Oaks
Park Hours: Monday - Thursday 10 am - 9 pm Friday 10 am - 11 pm Saturday 9 am - 11 pm Sunday 11 am - 8 pm
Delivery Available Authentic hinese uisine
Lunch special everyday 11:00am-3:00pm from $6.25 Early Bird Special
Everyday 3pm-6pm Hours of Operation: Monday-Sunday 11am-10pm
5 Off with $ minimum 20 purchase. $
Dine-in only. One per table. Expires 7/31/16.
Wah Kee Authentic Chinese Cuisine
www.eskimohut.com
18360 Blanco Rd. #122, San Antonio, TX 78258
210-497-6669 • www.wahkeechinese.com
d.
rR
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eb
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Blanco
10%
Watch or Key Fob Battery & Installation
Loop 1604
Stone Oak Pkwy
5.99
$
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SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM
*****ECR WSS Postal Customer Prsrt Std US Postage Paid Permit 6450 San Antonio TX
all roads lead to luxury
Dynamic design meets elegant style The XC60 sports a smart, purposeful look with styling refinements from the inside out. The bold grille, dashing hood and expressive headlights emphasize its confident outward appearance. The meticulously crafted interior features details such as leather comfort seats, walnut inlays and a state-of-the-art infotainment system.
1326 N.E. Loop 410 San Antonio, TX 78209 www.VolvoOfSanAntonio.com
COMMUNITY NEWS
A principleauto Dealership
4204 GARDENDALE STE. 201 SAN ANTONIO, TX 78229
VOLVO oF SAN ANTONIO