LOCAL: Stone Oak, Encino Park, Far North, 78258, 78259, 78260, 78261 March 2016

NEISD

PG.22 DISTRICT PARTNERSHIP HELPS TRAIN FUTURE EMTS PG.20 CAMPUS BOND PLANS ON THE DRAWING BOARD

PG. 06 LOCAL EDITORIAL School choice gives parents options to educate their children

Proponents seek to expand transit options; foes fear limited driver choices

PG.14

PG. 10 LOCAL LOWDOWN Offering a quick snapshot of new businesses, bars and restaurants, plus news updates VOL. 2, ISSUE 10

HOV lanes nearing reality for U.S. 281, Interstate 10

COMMUNITY NEWS

STONE OAK

INSIDE

HEALTH & WELLNESS

BE WELL IN 2016

ENCINO PARK

FAR NORTH

78258 78259 78260 78261

HARDY OAK ROADWAY

COMPLETED

FEB. 29 - MARCH 28, 2016

PG.13 Extension from Stone Oak Parkway to Knights Cross Drive relieving traffic congestion

COSMETIC PROCEDURES

Fountains of youth and beauty — PG 16 EXERCISE 101 Even Pooh Bear gets it — PG 18 WEIGHT LOSS Health experts discuss effective strategies — PG 19

PG. 04 LOCAL COMMENTARY SUSAN YERKES March is Women's History Month, and heroes are needed on the homefront

EAT LOCAL SMOOTHIE KING PG. 26 Offering healthy drinks with a purpose at new outlet

VIDA MIA PG. 27 Family opens its second eatery on far North Side

BUY LOCAL PLANET FITNESS

PG. 25 Twelth San Antonio location is a no-judgment zone for all exercisers

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President Harold J. Lees Publisher Gregg Rosenfield Director of Operations Jaselle Luna Assoc. Publisher Rick Upton EDITORIAL Executive Editor Thomas Edwards Managing Editor Will Wright News Staff Collette Orquiz and Bain Serna Contributing Writers Olivier J. Bourgoin, Jacque Crouse, Kate Hunger, Noi Mahoney, Carole Miller, Peter Moralez, Eric Moreno, Edmond Ortiz, Arthur Schechter and Susan Yerkes ART Creative Director Florence D. Edwards Contributing Photographers Alejandra Casas and Rudy B. Ornelas

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ADVERTISING Account Manager Amber Montemayor Controller Keith Sanders READER SERVICE Mailing Address 4204 Gardendale St., Ste. 201, SA, TX 78229 Phone Fax (210) 338.8842 (210) 616.9677 Advertising Inquiries jluna@localcommunitynews.com Story Ideas: tips@salocallowdown.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 4/5: 78109, 78148, 78233, 78239, 78108, 78132, 78154, 78266 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.

Transportation, annexation on tap

B

usiness owners and residents along the U.S. 281 North corridor should expect major transportation and annexation decisions in the coming months. Both outcomes will have an impact on the region’s future.

Transit planners have set the wheels in motion for 281 expansion without tolls, probably incorporating controversial high-occupancy vehicle lanes. In addition, city officials will soon review studies which could lead to annexing five unincorporated Bexar County areas including north of Stone Oak. The 281 corridor – extending from Loop 1604 into Comal County – is booming with residential and commercial development, but those opposed to annexation say such a move could trigger undue taxation and services they already receive from the county.

Meanwhile, the Alamo Area Metropolitan Planning Organization will likely add HOV lanes into a nontolled Interstate 10 expansion. The same applies to 281, as managed lanes are a part of new plans under review by the Texas Department of Transportation.

After the city receives new annexation assessments, a decision could be made by the summer. Opponents aren’t standing still; residents will join some city, county and state officials in rallies decrying the act.

Area legislators are gaining considerable support in their efforts to curb the powers of larger municipalities over smaller neighbors.

These lawmakers vow to again submit bills toward that end when the Legislature convenes in 10 months.

The debate over the transportation and annexation issues will give residents much to ponder going forward.

WILL WRIGHT MANAGING EDITOR ON THE COVER: After working 11 months and spending nearly $9 million, the city has completed the Hardy Oak extension project, which includes new sidewalks, bike paths and more. See story on page 13. Photo by Rudy B. Ornelas

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FEB. 29 - MARCH 28, 2016

LOCAL COMMENTARY

Heroes needed on the homefront

by SUSAN YERKES

M

arch is a big month for remembering heroes in these parts. The 13-day “siege of glory” at the Alamo, and the bloody battle on March 6, 1836, has become one of America’s most beloved heroic stories.

Women’s History Month is also commemorated in March, and I’ve been thinking about how our culture tends to frame traditional “heroes” as rough-andready warriors for a good cause, rather than quiet volunteers on the front lines of hidden, desperate struggles, such as the one to end domestic violence.

Every nine seconds a woman in the United States is assaulted or beaten, according to the National Coalition Against

Domestic Violence. The statistic may just be the tip of the iceberg, as an estimated 70 percent of such cases never get reported.

Further, more than 30 percent of female homicides come by the hands of an intimate partner. While men can be victims, too, the overwhelming majority are ladies, children or the elderly – the traditionally powerless.

Jane Shafer, program director for the San Antonio Police Department’s Family Assistance Crisis Team, or F.A.C.T., has seen the dark side for many years. In 1990, Shafer and her Putting an End to Abuse Through Community Efforts, or P.E.A.C.E., Initiative co-founder Patricia Castillo launched F.A.C.T., a volunteer program to help deal with domestic abuse.

Since then, F.A.C.T. has trained thousands of volunteers to team with professional social workers in domestic-abuse cases.

“This violence goes on day and night, throughout the city,” Shafer told me. “It happens in every part of town.”

Unfortunately, there’s still a lot of shame associated with asking for help, she added.

There’s also the danger of escalating violence if a woman or elderly person reports an abuser. Shafer urged everyone in the community to reach out to people they think may be experiencing domestic abuse.

Even if they don’t talk about it, if you notice bruises or injuries, just ask if they’re OK.

It’s not always easy to leave an abusive situation without support from nearby friends or family it can be difficult to make the break.

Some get help through the Bexar County Family Justice Center. Others find refuge at Family Violence Prevention Services Inc.’s Battered Women and Children’s Shelter, where more than a dozen different programs help victims recover their inner strength and prepare for independent lives. Last year, FVPS helped nearly 55,000 women and children, and sadly, the number continues to rise.

To me, women such as Shafer, Castillo, FVPS Executive Director Marta Peláez and the many, many mostly unsung advocates who work to unshackle the abused are genuine heroes. Their dedication may not be spotlighted in battlefield glory, but it’s a powerful, often life-and-death struggle … and it’s not getting easier.

I remember a moving interview I had two years ago with Maria Falcon, supervisor of counseling at the Family Justice Center.

After 28 years as a licensed professional counselor, Falcon called abuse against women the worst hate crime in our society — one seemingly uncontrollable.

“We say it’s a women’s issue, and we work to empower women,” she said, “but it’s happening more than ever.”

Falcon said she believes things will begin to change when the struggle against domestic violence is not framed only as an issue for women, but when it becomes one for men, too.

“Instead of putting all the focus on empowering the victims of abuse, what about putting the focus on the perpetrators? What about society teaching men not to be perpetrators? Men need to stand up and challenge other men – in politics, in the media, in business, the schools, everywhere in society, to declare that abuse is not acceptable,” she said.

Who will join the heroes on the homefront?

Share your thoughts at syerkes@ localcommunitynews.com.

IT’S NOT ALWAYS EASY TO LEAVE AN ABUSIVE SITUATION ... IT CAN BE DIFFICULT TO MAKE THE BREAK.

{ Dreams Do Come True }

One in eight couples will struggle with infertility.

The Methodist Stone Oak Hospital Fertility Clinic can help.

Methodist Stone Oak Hospital Fertility Clinic is a private, comprehensive facility that offers a variety of procedures to meet your personal needs.

In the past year, the clinic has treated over 100 in vitro fertilization (IVF) cases and is currently 60% above the national average success rate of IVF.

There’s nothing quite as wonderful as when you find out you’re expecting, especially if conception was difficult. That’s why our expert teams of reproductive endocrinologists, registered nurses, and certified surgical technologists at the Methodist Stone Oak Hospital Fertility Clinic are passionate about what they do and work to support both your physical and emotional needs. They are fully dedicated to helping you navigate the very personal journey of conception. Because your dreams matter.

Easy access from Loop 1604 and Hwy 281.

Across Hardy Oak from Methodist Stone Oak Hospital.

Methodist Stone Oak Hospital has collaborated with experienced and highly trained physicians to offer fertility series unparalleled in South Texas. Meet our Medical Director, Summer James, MD. With more than a decade of experience in resolving infertility, Dr. Summer James is board-certified in both Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Reproductive Endocrinology/ Infertility. Dr. James brings her patients compassionate care coupled with innovative approaches to solving the most complex infertility cases.

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FEB. 29 - MARCH 28, 2016

OUR TURN Views and opinions about your community

School choice now

A

ll parents should have the option to pick schooling best suiting the needs of their children.

MANAGE YOUR ENERGY SEE THE ENERGY YOU BUY

From kindergarten to 12th grade, school choice should be important for all families, whether the learner is collegebound or better oriented for a vocation.

Children learn differently from each other; a campus more accommodating for one may not fit the needs of another.

There are plenty of possibilities available.

In general, the school-choice arena offers traditional public campuses, magnet institutions, publicly supported charter schools and online academic venues. Parents, especially those desiring tailored education for their child or prayer in the classroom, can enroll their offspring in a private or parochial

school, or educate them at home.

The topic of school choice recently came to the forefront during National School Choice Week; according to one spokesman with the grassroots effort, 64 percent of Americans would like to have a greater educational menu for their kids.

During School Choice Week, Gov. Greg Abbott urged Texans to explore the kind of learning system that fits their families, even if it’s not public schools.

The issue could take on more prominence during the next legislative session.

In 2013, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, then a state senator, and former Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst pushed for legislation which would’ve used taxpayer money to send youngsters to private facilities. The battle over school vouchers resurfaced in 2015, but again made little headway.

Though public school officials railed against the proposal, it likely hasn’t disappeared.

No matter what, parents uncomfortable with the level of education their child is receiving should have the opportunity to switch to a campus or system they feel is more appropriate.

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

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HAPPENING LOCAL

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

OUR GUIDE TO YOUR MONTH

FITNESS

ART

ENCINO PARK OVER 50 CLUB folks a half-century old, 1 &15 For come to the 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.

MARCH

JOHNSON JAGUAR CHEER “CUB” CLINIC The Johnson High School 5 Jaguar Cheerleaders are hosting the annual cheer “Cub” Clinic for students in kindergarten through ninth grade, 23203 Bulverde Road. Check-in starts at 8:15 a.m. in the main foyer and the clinic concludes with a show-off for friends and family in the gymnasium at 12:30 p.m. Cheers, jumps and dance choreography are on the bill, and participants should wear comfortable clothes and shoes. Registration after Feb. 27 is $45 ; for more, email JagCheerCubClinic@gmail.com.

MARCH

1

HAPPENING KEY

EVENT

OUTDOOR

MUSIC

2

FOOD

3

MAKING FASHION HISTORY Drop by the Parman Branch 6 Library, 20735 Wilderness Oak Road, from 1-4 p.m. when Karen Sagun will deliver a presentation about fashion from England’s Regency era.

Afterward, construct a drawstring bag using provided materials or bring your own fabric. For more, call Patti Vanlandingham at 207-2703.

MARCH

4 5

Getting caught with a pet.

Living next to Rock Star Ron.

Too many loads, too few quarters.

Discovering your landlord’s insurance doesn’t cover your stuff.

It’s a dark day indeed when you learn that your landlord’s coverage doesn’t include your things.

That’s why you should give us a call about renter’s insurance. We’re right in the neighborhood, offering the same kind of protection millions of homeowners trust to cover their stuff.

State Farm renter’s insurance is really affordable too—about the price of a couple of pizzas a month—even less if your car’s insured with us.

Contact Betsy Dippo, your State Farm agent, today about renters insurance or visit www. betsydippo.com and avoid a nightmare worse than neighbors who cook cabbage.

WOMEN’S BASIC SELFMARCH DEFENSE Attend this martial7 arts seminar instructed by Gracie Barra personnel at the Parman Branch Library, 20735 Wilderness Oak Road, from 1-2 p.m. The free, introductory workshop will instruct women on protecting themselves from an attack. For more, call 207-2703.

HAPPENING continues on pg. 08

Giving Mom a key.

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HAPPENING continues from pg. 07 SEW BEE IT The sewing club meets the second Tuesday 8 of every month at Encino Park Community Center, 1923 Encino Rio St., from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Bring a power strip or extension cord.

For more, email Sylvia Jolet at sjolet@ earthlink.net or call 497-3383.

MARCH

PUTTING THE “HEAL” IN “HEALTH” Realize your own 8 healing potential from 10:30 a.m. to noon at the Parman Branch Library, 20735 Wilderness Oak Road. Mastering and balancing your body’s energy and keeping it flowing smoothly may result in reducing pain, breathing easier, sleeping better and gaining vitality. Learn helpful information and practice Spring Forest Qigong exercises in a supportive environment. Group sessions magnify the training. No experience necessary. Dress comfortably in nonrestrictive clothes.

Workout can be modified for standing, sitting or lying. For more, call 207-2703.

MARCH

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Life [re]defined

ENCINO PARK GAME DAY Come to the Encino Park 10 Community Center, 1923 Encino Rio St., at 1:30 p.m. on the second

MARCH

Thursday of every month for various game-related activities. Non-Encino Park residents are welcome, too. For more, contact Dyan Montesclaros at 481-7890.

WEE WIGGLE SPRING FLING DANCE The Parman Branch 11 Library, 20735 Wilderness Oak Road, hosts a children’s dance party from 10:15-11:15 a.m. Toddlers and preschoolers can get down with music, balloons and more. Registration is required. For more, call 207-2703.

MARCH

MILITARY WELCOME American Legion Post 10 12 holds a breakfast meeting 8-9:30 a.m. the second Saturday of every month from September to June, at The Egg & I, 700 E. Sonterra Blvd., Suite 314. All military, active and veterans, as well as spouses and guests, are invited.

For more, email Hector Cavazos, post commander, at hcavazospost10@ yahoo.com or call 325-5627.

MARCH

SCHOOL’S OUT – SPRING BREAK & GOOD FRIDAY 14-18 & 25 Schoolchildren receive time off when campuses in the

MARCH

HAPPENING continues on pg. 09

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HAPPENING continues from pg. 08 North East and Comal independent school districts will be closed.

SHAPING UP FOR A NEW YOU While the Parman Branch Library, 20735 Wilderness Oak Road, usually exercises your mind, come exercise your body from 10-11 a.m. A San Antonio Parks & Recreation Department instructor will lead a class in low-impact physical training.

The session will focus on agility and flexibility. For more, call 207-2703.

MONDAYS

BLOOD DRIVE The South Texas Blood & Tissue Center will 19 bring its bloodmobile to the parking lot at Parman Branch Library, 20735 Wilderness Oak Road, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Help save a life by donating blood.

For more, call Tim Johnson at 207-2703.

MARCH

DISTRICT 9 NEIGHBORHOOD ALLIANCE Meetings are 23 held the fourth Wednesday of each 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.

MARCH

SO, YOU THINK

WEDNESDAYS YOU CAN SEW

For an afternoon of advice and conversation leaving you in stitches, the Encino Branch Library, 2515 E. Evans Road, hosts experienced needle enthusiasts from 12:30-3 p.m.

The Hand Bee is a close-knit group of adults. If you’re sew-inclined and seek more, call 207-9250.

PAPERCRAFTING AND SCRAPBOOK CLUB 26 Visit the Parman Branch Library, 20735 Wilderness Oak Road, from 1-6 p.m. for an afternoon of paper therapy. Begin with a demonstration of a technique, layout idea or project, and then work on your own paper projects such as card-making or scrapbooking. All levels of expertise are welcome. Registration is required. For more, call 207-2703.

MARCH

NEISD BOARD The scheduled meeting of North 28 East Independent School District trustees will be 5:30 p.m. at

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TABLE TENNIS ANYONE? Pingpong for adults is available at the Parman Branch Library, 20735 Wilderness Oak Road, meeting room B, from 1-3 p.m. All skill levels are welcome. For more, call Tim Johnson at 207-2703.

FRIDAYS

EGG-CELLENT TIME MARCH Easter at Summit 26-27 Celebrate Christian Center, 2575 Marshall Road. Times for services and egg hunts are 5 p.m. service with 6:45 p.m. egg hunt Saturday; Sunday 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. services precede 10 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. egg hunts, respectively. There will be 20,000-plus eggs in addition to inflatables, giveaways, food trucks, carousel rides and Easter Bunny photo opportunities. For more, visit summitsa.com.

MARCH

From flu care to critical care, our experienced Board Certified Emergency Medicine Physicians and staff are available 24/7 to care for you.

JOIN THE FITNESS KICK The Encino Branch Library, 2515 E. Evans Road, tests your body at noon or 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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FEB. 29 - MARCH 28, 2016

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. WIN WELL TENNIS, 18720 Stone Oak Parkway, Suite 152, is billed as “Your one-stop tennis shop!” in Stone Oak Plaza. Hours are 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and noon to 5 p.m.

Sunday. For more, call 492-0200 or visit www.iwinwell.com or facebook.com/ winwelltennis. (See story on page 24) 2. PLANET FITNESS, 20760 U.S. 281

North at Evans Road, offers a unique and affordable exercise experience in a non-intimidating environment, company officials said. Open 24 hours daily.

For more, call 455-6835 or visit www. planetfitness.com. (See story on page 25)

3. SMOOTHIE KING, 17910 Bulverde

Road, Suite 107, offers tasty smoothies and other iced and refreshing treats.

Hours are 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday. For more,

Address of local business Name of local business

call 882-7560 or visit www.smoothie king.com. (See story on page 26)

4. VIDA MIA MEXICAN CUISINE, 22250

Bulverde Road, Suite 114 in The Shops at Fossil Creek, is the second of the familyowned restaurants; the original debuted in 2011 at 19141 Stone Oak Parkway, Suite 803. Recipes are based on 40 years of family tradition, according to a statement.

Hours are 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 7 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Sunday through Thursday hours will be extended when the bar opens.

For more, call 490-2013 or visit www. vidamiacuisine.com. (See story on page 27)

IN OTHER NEWS

“TEX” HILL MIDDLE SCHOOL RECENTLY NAMED Julie Shore school principal. The Texas State University graduate previously served as assistant principal of curriculum and instruction at Johnson High School.

She began her career as dance, drill and pep

squad director at Marshall High School, later serving as assistant principal at Tejeda Middle School. Shore is excited about her latest opportunity. “I feel very fortunate to continue working in the Johnson cluster,” she said. “I have grown to love the students and families in this community. I have been extremely impressed with the staff here at ‘Tex’ Hill, and will work hard to continue building upon the foundation of excellence already established here.”

SAN ANTONIO CHRISTIAN SCHOOL STUDENTS Alexander Green and Joshua Pink recently were selected to participate as National Youth Correspondents to the 2016 Washington Journalism and Media Conference at George Mason University in Virginia. Both students, who were chosen based on academic accomplishments, will join others nationwide in an intensive study of journalism and media at the weeklong program July 17-22. The event, featuring an array of guest speakers and prominent journalists, is designed to encourage and inspire young leaders seeking successful media careers.

AREA PUBLIC HIGH SCHOOLS WILL STAY IN THEIR CURRENT COMPETITIVE DISTRICTS, according to the University Interscholastic League. On Feb. 1, UIL announced its

statewide biennial realignments for 201617 and 2017-18. Last December, Texas’ governing body for extracurricular public school activities, announced enrollment cutoff numbers based on average daily membership submitted by district superintendents in October. There was little change statewide, which added only 50 pupils to Texas’ highest classification. Schools with enrollments above 2,150 students are assigned in Class 6A, followed by 5A (1,100-2,149); 4A (480-1,099); 3A (221-479); 2A (105-220) and Class A (104 and below).

North East Independent School District’s seven high schools will remain alone in District 26-6A for football and basketball.

JOHNSON HIGH SCHOOL CHEERLEADERS won the University Interscholastic League’s first-ever Class 6A Spirit State Championships at the University of TexasArlington on Jan. 16. Johnson defeated 96 teams statewide. The squad participated in three different preliminary-round events and ranked third overall going into the finals, where Johnson’s 93.8 points took first place besting McAllen Memorial (92 points) and Pearland (91.9 points). “Their performance in the final round was a reflection of this hard work, dedication and

LOWDOWN continues on pg. 11

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SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM LOWDOWN continues from pg. 10 their commitment to their teammates,” said Shannon McKinley, Jaguars’ cheer coach.

COUNCILMAN JOE KRIER SAID SCHOOL ZONES last year became safer across City Council District 9, which he represents. “We made solid progress in 2015 in our efforts to protect children from traffic as they walk to and from school,” Krier said in a recent online newsletter. Accomplishments included 1.6 miles of sidewalks installed near institutions; 53 school crosswalks re-striped; all school flashers received comprehensive maintenance; and 731 signs were updated to current standards. The district is home to 39 schools — 21 public, 16 private and two charter.

THE STONE OAK PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION WON Mega Community of the Year for 2015 at the San Antonio Community Associations Institute Gala Feb. 6. According to a POA release, “Recognition was based on the coordination and planning of water-conservation efforts, as well as landscape redesign, while still maintaining the aesthetics of the community, thus setting an example for all property owners.”

Additionally, according to the statement, the award also recognizes “POA community outreach projects that assist in conservation

and education, such as the Donation & Dumping Events, Shredding Events, Rain Barrel Workshops and Arbor Day Events.”

OFFICIALS ARE DETERMINING if stop signs at a four-way intersection at Stone Oak Parkway south of Hardy Oak Boulevard and north of Knights Cross Drive should be replaced with red lights and sensors.

Meanwhile, San Antonio Police Department officers directed traffic there in February to alleviate congestion during morning and afternoon rush hours, according to the Stone Oak Property Owners Association.

VIKI MELTON, KEN PILAND AND JOE SILMAN, representing residents, all won re-election to the Stone Oak Property Owners Association’s board during its annual meeting in late January.

Returning commercial-property representatives include North Central Baptist Hospital and JPMorgan Chase & Co.; they’re joined by Oxford Sonterra Partners Ltd., according to officials.

DUAL-LANGUAGE PROGRAM INFORMATIONAL MEETINGS are set for parents of incoming Comal Independent School District kindergartners. The district’s

LOWDOWN continues on pg. 12

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LOWDOWN continues from pg. 11 dual-language curriculum integrates native Spanish-speaking pupils with primarily English ones, for instruction in both tongues. The purpose is to develop bilingual listening, speaking, reading and writing skills for enrolled students from kindergarten through fifth grade. During 2016-17, the program will be offered at Brown, Clear Spring, Kinder Ranch and Morningside elementary schools.

Parents of prospective kindergarteners not designated for those institutions but who are interested, may take their children to a campus of choice.

Informational meetings begin March 22 at Clear Spring. Other 6:30 p.m. sessions include Morningside (April 4); Kinder Ranch (April 6); and Brown (April 7).

For more, visit www.comalisd.org.

COMAL INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT SUPERINTENDENT ANDREW KIM was recently appointed presiding officer on the newly created Texas Commission on Next Generation Assessments and Accountability, according to a CISD release. The board, authorized by House Bill 2804 to develop and recommend a new system of student assessments and public school accountability by Sept. 1.,

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More than ever, I think we should share and learn from that information so we can make local decisions that strengthen our school district and our community.”

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SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM HARDY OAK continues from pg. 01

Road someday could extend to Loop 1604

by NOI MAHONEY

A

fter 11 months and $8.8 million, the highly anticipated Hardy Oak extension project is finished, city officials say.

Work on Hardy Oak Boulevard, designed to alleviate vehicle overcrowding, produced a four-lane divided roadway connecting Stone Oak Parkway to Knights Cross Drive. Residents claim positive results.

“I think the extension of Hardy Oak has helped relieve some traffic congestion,” said Art Downey, chairman of the Stone Oak Property Owners Association. “I use it myself when heading to Highway 281 to avoid the congestion that has been created by the new Starbucks at Stone Oak Parkway and Evans Road.”

Construction began in January 2015 and was funded from the 2012-17 bond program.

The city recently completed the $8.8 million Hardy Oak Boulevard extension, connecting Stone Oak Parkway to Knights Cross Drive. Art Downey (above), chairman of the Stone Oak Property Owners Association, said the new lanes will relieve traffic congestion. Photo by Rudy B. Ornelas

City officials said extending Hardy Oak should improve the quality of life for motorists in the area.

“As a result of this project, area residents will spend significantly less time in traffic, whether they’re driving to work or the store, or heading out with friends,” District 9 Councilman Joe Krier said in a January release.

Additional improvements on the Hardy Oak/Knights Cross extension

AREA RESIDENTS WILL SPEND SIGNIFICANTLY LESS TIME IN TRAFFIC. JOE KRIER, DISTRICT 9 COUNCILMAN

include new sidewalks, bike paths, driveway approaches, an upgraded traffic signal and drainage improvements.

Mike Frisbie, city engineer and director of Transportation & Capital Improvements, said the project was completed on time with no delays.

Previously, Hardy Oak dead-ended just south of Stone Oak Parkway, forcing drivers to take winding routes to get to their destination.

Hardy Oak now concludes in front of Las Lomas Elementary School, bisected by privately owned land, and begins again near Methodist Stone Oak Hospital.

Frisbie said the city has plans to connect the two sections of Hardy Oak at some point, which would run the roadway to Sonterra Boulevard and advance it all the way to Loop 1604.

“This is a part of our major thoroughfare plan,” Frisbie said. “At this point there is no timetable for when this will occur. However, it is something we have planned for the future.”

Downey noted linking the two portions of Hardy Oak would greatly improve traffic woes in the area.

“Extending Hardy Oak even farther down to Sonterra will provide alternative routes to both 281 and 1604 and will be very important,” he said. “I hope to see that accomplished as part of the 2017 bond.”

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FEB. 29 - MARCH 28, 2016

HOV continues from pg. 01

NOTABLE MPO TRANSPORTATION PROJECT PROPOSALS

MPO set to decide I-10 HOV lanes on March 28

Alamo Area Metropolitan Planning Organization’s Transportation Policy Board is conducting public input on 41 project proposals totaling $414.6 million being considered for the region’s new four-year Transportation Improvement Program for FY 2017-20, including these area requests: n Blanco Road (FM 2696) from West Oak Estates Drive to Borgfeld Road; widen from two to four lanes with a raised median; adding bike lanes, curbs, sidewalks and drainage.

PROJECT AMOUNT REQUESTED: $14,661,235

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n Loop 1604 at Blanco Road; construct intersection improvements

PROJECT AMOUNT REQUESTED: $5.4 MILLION

T

hough paying for the expansion of U.S. 281 with tolls has hit the brakes, a new transit battle is picking up speed over proposals creating future high-occupancy vehicle lanes for buses and carpools.

n Loop 1604 between Redland Road and Bulverde Road; reverse on/off ramps west of Bulverde; install east-west turnaround lanes at Bulverde

PROJECT AMOUNT REQUESTED: $10.1 MILLION SOURCE: Alamo Area Metropolitan Planning Organization

Those desiring more publictransportation options are pitted against others saying the plan would infringe on personal liberties at additional taxpayer cost. However, the Alamo Area Metropolitan Planning Organization is moving ahead with plans to include HOV lanes in expansions for both 281 and Interstate 10 West.

“We’re looking at it strictly from a mobility standpoint,” said Sid

Martinez, MPO executive director.

“It’s about how to move the most people through both corridors.”

The proposed tollway routes for 281 and I-10 stalled last November when voters OK’d Proposition 7, which will funnel billions into state roadway upgrades, including the San Antonio area in 2018.

Martinez said the 281 project has been approved with HOV lanes; on March 28

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the board will vote on a similar resolution for I-10. He said the HOV component has always been part of tolled and nontolled expansions for both roadways.

The MPO remains committed to including HOV lanes in a $532 million expansion of 281 from Loop 1604 to the Comal County line, and a $200 million augmentation of I-10 north of 1604.

In January, the Texas Department

of Transportation announced $1.3 billion in state funds for congestionrelief projects, accelerating the timeline for both thoroughfares.

However, some feel HOV lanes are taking taxpayers for a ride.

Terri Hall, founder and director of the anti-toll group Texans Uniting for Reform & Freedom, or TURF, said she’d lobby against them.

“These HOV lanes are anti-liberty and they’re using our tax money to build lanes the vast majority of the traveling public will never be able to access,” she said. “HOV lanes have never resulted in congestion reduction. All they do is get you out of your car and into another mode of travel that’s deemed more politically correct.”

The controversy led planners to postpone a decision on I-10 until after receiving more information on managed lanes at their Jan. 25 meeting.

There, Ginger Goodin, an engineer with the Texas A&M Transportation Institute, said such lanes are another option to increase the amount of people moving through busy corridors. According to Goodin’s recent presentation, managed lanes will decrease cost and time for travelers now suffering through congested

HOV continues on pg. 15

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SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM HOV continues from pg. 14 general-purpose lanes. She cited numbers from HOV-lane usage in Houston and Dallas, which have served as models for mass transit through managed lanes.

“They won’t necessarily reduce the congestion in the corridor,” she said. “It’s not a congestion-reduction strategy, but a way to improve movement in a congested corridor. The idea is to provide incentives to help people shift their traffic behavior – by taking a bus or forming carpools.”

Area residents at the hearing appeared divided.

“I feel it will be a be a tragic decision not to maintain at least a single specialpurpose lane in future plans for 281 and (expansion) north of I-10,” John Kelly said.

Future smart-car and mass-transit innovations would eventually increase traffic on the special lanes, Kelly said, urging MPO board members to “act on behalf of citizens in the most forward-thinking terms possible” by instituting HOV lanes.

“I really think we need not miss this opportunity to maintain the viability and flexibility of these facilities as we go forward,” he said.

Retired businessman and engineer Don Dixon has regularly fought HOV lanes. He said adding managed lanes to accommodate mass transit boils down to “social engineering.”

“You can’t control our citizens into losing their personal freedoms,” he noted.

“You can’t try to push them into a bus that a lot of drivers want to (avoid) using.”

Patrick Dossey, a retired certified public accountant and 50-year San Antonio resident, concurs with Dixon.

“I don’t want to cut down any existing lanes, and if there are HOV lanes, we should keep the tolls off of it,” he said. “Keep it cheap, keep the same number of lanes, and keep it free – that’s what we voted for in November and it’s what we want.”

Dossey and others said VIA Metropolitan Transit’s funding of past and present projects has influenced the inclusion

15 of HOV lanes, which could be built to flow into future VIA park-and-ride facilities.

“That was always the plan to begin with, so that (mass) transit and registered carpoolers would be able to use that road for free,” Martinez said. “So while the tolls are removed, it keeps the mobility option available and keeps the region moving.”

MPO Chairman and District 6 Councilman Ray Lopez said the public is clamoring for “a more transit-oriented view” toward expanding both roadways.

“Their concern is certainly about moving cars, but more importantly, it’s about moving people,” he said.

District 8 Councilman Ron Nirenberg agreed folks need additional transit choices; HOV lanes serve as a “congestion-management” tool.

“At this point, without a revenue source and limited tools at our disposal to really manage the congestion along these corridors, this seems like a great option for us to consider and our residents support it,” he said. “I am fully supportive of the HOV component moving forward.”

Nirenberg also endorses ride-hailing services such as Uber and Lyft.

Bexar County Commissioners Court on Feb. 9 approved agreements with TxDOT to expand a 9-mile section of 1604 on the county’s west end. The $185 million project will enlarge the thoroughfare into a four-lane expressway without HOV lanes, and will be funded through a combination of regional, state and federal sources.

Hall said the announcement indicated a bias favoring HOV lanes for the area.

“The West Side is one of the fastest growing parts of San Antonio right now,” she said. “Just because 281 and I-10 has more residents and is more congested, doesn’t mean it’s OK for big government to pick winners and losers.”

She added, “Why are we spending billions of taxpayer money to build lanes nobody will use, when we have congestion problems everywhere else? It’s insanity to keep doing the same thing over and over again and expecting the same results.”

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COSMETIC PROCEDURES

Fountains of youth and beauty

by SUSAN YERKES

W

ant to perk up a tired face or body? You’re not alone. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, U.S. physicians performed 15.6 million cosmetic-surgery procedures in 2014.

As Americans live longer and retire later, many are taking medical-oriented actions to help turn back the clock.

Most of the 15.6 million procedures listed in the latest ASPS survey were deemed

“minimally invasive” — such as Botox and injectable fillers; chemical peels and microdermabrasion, and laser hair removal.

The remaining 1.7 million were surgical, with breast augmentation the most popular, followed by nose reshaping, liposuction, eyelid lifts and full face-lifts. Nearly 6 million more reconstructive, as opposed to cosmetic, plastic surgeries were done to correct the effects of disease or injury.

San Antonio is in tune with the general proliferation in cosmetic procedures, according to Richard Levine, a boardcertified plastic surgeon who opened his private practice here in 1981.

“Cosmetic surgery is not just the domain of the rich and famous anymore,” Levine said.

Fat grafts and injectable fillers can change the contours of faces and bodies; liposuction can remove unwanted fat deposits, and neurotoxins such as Botox can ease frown lines and wrinkles.

However, the fountain of youth isn’t cheap.

In 2013, Americans spent more than $12 billion on physician fees and materials for cosmetic enhancements – not to mention

hospital costs. The numbers aren’t likely to lessen, although procedure expenses have stabilized or slightly decreased.

According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, in 2013, the average national cost of a Botox treatment was around $390, and injectable fillers such as Juvederm or Restylane ranged from $500$600, and usually required repeating two to three times yearly for effectiveness. Laser skin resurfacing was about a $2,200 hit, with

COSMETIC continues on pg. 17

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Several medical providers in San Antonio offer cosmetic and reconstructive procedures, including UT Medicine, the clinical practice of the School of Medicine at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. Courtesy photo

COSMETIC continues from pg. 16 liposuction averaging $2,800. Physician fees alone for breast-augmentation surgeries averaged $5,000-$6,000, $4,800 for tummy tucks, and $4,300 for buttock augmentation, one of the fastest-growing U.S. trends. Face-lifts averaged $6,500.

Hospitalization, anesthesia, and more can easily double the final price.

Also, don’t expect insurance to cover cosmetic surgery, so choose a qualified practitioner for whatever you’re considering.

Dr. Christie Bialowas cautions bargain-seekers to beware.

“We see people who have had all sorts of things injected in their faces – some people even use silicone, which can be a real problem,” she said. “Injecting neurotoxins in the wrong facial area can even cause blindness. It’s serious business.”

Bialowas, a board-certified plastic surgeon, is with UT Medicine, the clinical practice of the School of Medicine at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio.

“Most people don’t realize we offer cosmetic procedures here,” she said.

At UT Medicine, Bialowas sees patients for both reconstructive and cosmetic procedures.

Silicone or saline implants once were standards for breast or buttock augmentations.

Now, however, advances in transferring fat, via liposuction, from one area of a person’s body to another, resulted in an increased demand, she said.

Facial areas, breasts, buttocks and even hands – where the age concealed by cosmetic procedures often shows up – have become popular areas for fat grafting.

High obesity rates in the San

Antonio vicinity also lead quite a few men to seek breast-reduction surgery.

Average national prices for male breast reductions are $200-$300 lower than females. Body lifts, a combination of liposuction and removal of sagging skin, displace cellulite and reshape the entire abdomen, rear end and thigh area.

It’s important to remember, however, liposuction isn’t intended for dramatic weight loss.

“People need to understand that obesity is not an indication for cosmetic surgery,” Levine said. “It’s much better to get a fitness routine, lose weight or see a bariatric surgeon for the weight loss.”

Lifts and liposuction are more effective once a patient reaches a reasonable, stable weight.

Today’s silicone implants are much safer than a couple of decades ago; some were susceptible to leaking into the body, Levine said.

He uses “gummy bear” implants, made of silicone adhering to itself.

“Most of the women I see for breast surgery want to have natural-looking breasts, so my average implant is smaller than some doctors use,” Levine said.

While Levine offers nonsurgical treatments, he usually recommends face-lifts and/or eyelifts to folks older than 50.

Levine, who has a well-established North Side practice, said most of his patients are well-informed.

For guidance, the ASPS website at plasticsurgery.org has user-friendly descriptions, videos and a national directory of ASPS board-certified physicians. For recommendations, you can also consult your family doctor, or even friends who have experienced positive results.

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Exercise

101

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by CAROLE MILLER

W

innie the Pooh once said, “A bear, however hard he tries, grows tubby without exercise.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention agrees, and adds humans to the workout regimen. A regular fitness routine

reduces cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome and some cancers. Exercise also strengthens bones and muscles, improves mental health and protects injuries in elders due to falls.

There are three types of exercise: aerobic, anaerobic and flexibility. The Department of Health and Human Services recommends healthy adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity weekly, and some form of anaerobic exercise no less than twice a week.

Aerobic exercise, aka “cardio,” includes heart-pumping behavior such as running, swimming, cycling and tennis. Frequent and regular aerobic exercise can prevent high blood pressure, obesity, heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, insomnia and depression.

“Rowing is the best new form of group cardio,” says Alison Smith, owner of Energy X Fitness, 5162 Broadway. “It’s a very low-impact, but high-energy workout.”

In addition, Energy X Fitness offers group classes including ShockWave, cross-training, total-body resistance exercise, kettlebell workouts, Vinyasa yoga and personal training.

Anaerobic exercise (more commonly

referred to as strength training) includes working out with free weights, weight machines or doing traditional strength exercises such as pushups, squats and chin-ups. Strength training increases bone, muscle, tendon and ligament potency, endurance and improves joint and cardiac function, reduces the potential for injury resulting from weak muscles, elevates levels of “good” cholesterol and lowers the risk of osteoporosis.

The stereotypical picture of musclebound men lifting weights is antiquated.

“A one-size-fits-all approach is outdated,” said Leslie Edwards, CEO of Heart of Texas Fitness and owner of Koko Fit Club in Alamo Heights and The Dominion. “People want more customization and individual attention. We provide personal training without the cost and without scheduling appointments.”

Koko Fit Club, open 24/7, offers cyberfriendly strength training and cardio using a computer and a coach. Gym staffers program an individual, recommended 30-minute workout schedule on a flash drive, which tells a client exactly what to do and how much to lift. Then, results and progress are easily tracked on an efficient and manageable personal website.

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Flexibility generally deteriorates with age, often due to a sedentary lifestyle, with daily activities becoming difficult. This increases the risk of injury, especially in older adults.

Smith recommends yoga for seniors (and everyone, really) as a great form of exercise.

“Yoga provides strength, flexibility, balance, and most often forgotten, relaxation. Yoga can literally be for everybody,” she said.

“Even if you can only exercise in a chair, it’s important to keep your core and leg muscles active versus sedentary,” said Andres B. Cruz, vice president of Pride PHC Services, a local company that works with the elderly and infirm providing personal attendants and daily-living necessities for customers’ security and self-sufficiency.

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Weight loss: Health experts discuss effective strategies

by NOI MAHONEY

I

f you want to slim down, diet and exercise are both important. However, many experts believe monitoring what you eat is essential for shedding pounds.

“Losing weight is 70 to 80 percent diet,” said Jan Tilley, a registered dietitian and president and CEO of JTA Wellness in San Antonio. “You can’t out-train a bad diet, but it still takes both dieting and exercise.”

Tilley advises clients to follow six tips: eat every three hours, always ingest carbs with lean proteins and healthy fats, exercise every day, don’t let hunger get ahead of you (don’t overeat), avoid inflammatory foods (sugary, processed or high in saturated fats), and strategize.

“Plan your meals; create a schedule,”

Tilley said. “The people who lose weight and who you see keeping it off, are the ones who exercise.”

Others take a more holistic approach.

Josh Bonine, owner of Generation Chiropractic and Dr. Josh’s Weight Loss Center, said he provides a protocol that does not require drugs, surgeries, shots, exercise or prepackaged foods.

“We are leading the weight-loss revolution with our advanced technology scan. Finding out how to get each individual person into a fat-burning, weight-loss state is the key,” Bonine said.

“The more specific and individualized you can make it, the better.”

The health care specialist added he is able to lead clients through a rapid fat-loss and detoxification process, which can produce significant results in 40 days.

As Americans live longer, many have a long list of intertwining health problems.

Tilley said older people and seniors must understand unhealthy consumption can lead to Type 2 diabetes, heart disease and hypertension.

“Choose healthy foods,” she said.

“You don’t want to become overweight and suffer from arthritis, joint pain.”

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FEB. 29 - MARCH 28, 2016

NEISD continues from pg. 01

Conversion of athletic park among priorities

by WILL WRIGHT

F

our months after voters approved a $499.5 million bond request, North East Independent School District officials have taken the first steps toward upgrading and improving district facilities.

“I’m proud of the entire process,” NEISD Superintendent Brian Gottardy said.

“This bond program is all about equity. A lot of great things are going to occur for students at every one of our campuses.”

“We’re in the initial stages of the process,” added Aubrey Chancellor, an NEISD spokeswoman. “The first step is the design process, and architects have been selected by the school board.”

Trustees on Feb. 8 picked 13

architectural and 15 engineering firms.

“They have been assigned specific projects and the next step is having them work on those designs over the next six to nine months,” Chancellor said.

The 2015 bond has seven categories.

Most funding – $225.8 million – is slated to enrich NEISD campuses. The rest will enhance extracurricular activity programs ($89.8 million); instructional technology and campus support programs ($72.4 million); district operations ($60 million); safety and security measures ($20 million); bond program management ($17 million); and a bond contingency program ($15 million).

“We’re currently working on a timeline, where all of the projects will be prioritized, and hope to have that completed before the end of February or early March,” Chancellor added.

Near the top of the agenda is converting the old Time Warner Cable Park, a 57acre sports complex located north of Wurzbach Parkway on Wetmore Road.

Last fall City Council approved a long-term lease agreement with the district, which will eventually purchase the facility for $3.2 million.

The park features six softball fields, a swimming pool, beach-volleyball courts, a pavilion, restroom facilities,

THE NORTH EAST ISD 2015 BOND - AT A GLANCE North East Independent School District’s 2015 bond will address the following areas: n Improving campus security and safety n Add technology-system upgrades (both infrastructure and equipment) n Improve library operations n Replace portable buildings with new classroom facilities n Improve and expand extracurricular facilities for athletics, fine arts, JROTC areas as well as enhance natatorium, football stadium and tenniscenter areas at the district’s central athletic facilities n Phased replacement of aging campus facilities at Garner, Jackson and Krueger middle schools and Churchill and Lee high schools

concession stands and playgrounds. A $10 million allocation in the bond will go toward revising and improving those amenities for use by all district schools.

NEISD plans to enlarge the pool, convert a softball field to baseball, and upgrade other areas to accommodate school events.

“That is going to be a priority project, because we want to put that to use as soon as we can,” Chancellor said.

Other bond priorities will be set and scheduled through the district’s

n Create a district Career and Technology Academy n Expand the district magnet program’s Agriscience Center n Improve secondary school campus athletic sports fields n Install walking tracks at elementary school campuses n Upgrade and provide additional maintenance for aging infrastructure n Improve student health and campus food service areas n Replace aging buses with new ones Source: NEISD

Construction Management and Engineering Department, which handles all aspects of bond construction.

After concluding a 20-year career with the Army Corps of Engineers, Gary Sullivan has participated in the district’s last five bond projects, the last four as CM&E’s executive director.

“It is truly an honor and privilege to lead the way in designing and executing

NEISD continues on pg. 21

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SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM NEISD continues from pg. 20 the district’s newest bond program,” he said. “It touches every single campus in some way. The majority of funding is dedicated to upgrading our older campuses (through) new additions and renovations. However, program areas at newer schools are bursting at the seams and additions at those schools will help alleviate crowded conditions.”

Receiving the greatest individual shares of bond funding are North East School of the Arts at Lee High School ($35 million for a new fine-arts center); partial facility replacements at Krueger and Jackson middle schools ($28 million each); replacing Churchill High School’s Academic Career and Technology Center ($25 million); a partial facility replacement at Garner Middle School ($21 million); and portable building replacements at Regency Place Elementary School ($20 million).

NEISD voters approved bonds of $449 million, $498 million and $399 million in 2003, 2007 and 2011, respectively.

The latest measure won’t affect taxpayers for at least five years, officials said.

The district’s Citizens Bond Advisory Committee, established in 2003, evaluates bond projects ensuring the scope, cost

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and timeline of each. Meeting monthly, 25 residents serve on the board reviewing old construction projects, while monitoring progress and status of current ones.

Fred Morrison, a CBAC participant since its inception, has been its executive chairman the last 10 years.

“I believe that we serve to build taxpayer trust,” Morrison said. “The CBAC has made sure the past three bond issues have met or exceeded taxpayer expectations.

The thing that I am most impressed with is that over the last dozen years NEISD continues to not only build the necessary structures to handle growth, but has improved and rebuilt our oldest campuses in the interest of equity across the district.”

The 2011 bond led to the creation of “Tex” Hill Middle School, replaced portable buildings at Camelot, Coker and Windcrest elementary schools, and provided notable additions to Reagan High School and other district facilities.

Construction on 2011 bond projects will wrap later this year or early 2017.

“Everything is on budget, and in fact, under budget,” Chancellor said. “Each time the district goes out for a bond the work is completed within a five-year period.”

With nearly 70,000 students, NEISD is the second-largest district in San Antonio, officials said.

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FEB. 29 - MARCH 28, 2016

PARTNERSHIP continues from pg. 01

Students get realworld experience riding with EMTs

by KATE HUNGER

A

senior year in high school promises many unique experiences, but for students at four North East Independent School District campuses enrolled in an Emergency Medical Technician course, it means riding in ambulances, observing emergency-room care and possibly helping save lives.

Through a partnership with the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, NEISD offers the twosemester, state-certified EMT course at Johnson, Churchill, Roosevelt and Madison high schools. Students who complete the course are eligible to take a national standardized EMT exam after they graduate.

Those who pass the test can apply for

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The Biolase Epic X is the newest diode laser. We can use it for soft tissue (gums) procedures, teeth whitening and even pain therapy! It allows for precision procedures such as frenectomies, gum recontouring, biopsies, removing harmful bacteria in the gums, or removing gum tissue overgrowth in a much gentler manner.

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PARTNERSHIP continues on pg. 23

I WASN’T EVEN INTERESTED IN A MEDICAL CAREER BEFORE I TOOK THIS CLASS AND NOW ALL I WANT TO DO IS MEDICINE. IT WAS JUST SO INTERESTING AND I NEVER WOULD HAVE HAD THE CHANCE TO EXPERIENCE THAT.

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“For me it’s very motivating and it’s very heart-touching because we go out in the real world and we’re helping real people,” said Churchill senior Hugo Aguilar, who is taking the class.

He plans to attend the University of the Incarnate Word School of Nursing to pursue a career as a flight nurse.

During an eight-hour ambulance ride out, as they are called, Hugo assisted on a call for a diabetic patient who had forgotten her medicine and was experiencing serious swelling.

The call made an impression on Hugo, who said he hopes to work as an EMT while in college. He said the course has impressed upon him the importance of safety for both the responder and the patient, as well as the need for quickly assessing the patient’s condition and figuring out how to handle situations involving law enforcement or other sensitive circumstances.

The EMT course is rigorous, said Eddie Battros, a lecturer in the Emergency Health Sciences Department at UTHSCSA and the NEISD EMT course liaison.

Battros, who instructs the class at Churchill, also is Bexar County’s first-

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Smiles by CDO Children’s Dentists & Orthodontists When husband and wife dental team Dr. Jarod and Cele Oliver met in dental school, they found they had a common passion to create beautiful, healthy smiles in children and adults alike. What they did not anticipate was finding a shared desire to ensure these healthy smiles start in infancy.

As a mom to almost 2 year old twins herself, Dr. Cele understands the demands placed on parents to find dental professionals they can really trust. “When I first graduated from dental school, my friends and family came to me saying they didn’t understand a treatment recommendation from their family dentist, or they didn’t know if suggested treatment is really necessary for their child”. The sheer numbers of parents she talked to demonstrated the demand for open dialogue with parents and the environment to foster conversation to educate parents in preventative measures.

Smiles by CDO has evolved to be one of the only offices in Texas that staffs only Board-Certified dental specialists, meaning all dentists and orthodontists on staff have completed a 2-3 year residency after dental school.

What truly sets Smiles by CDO apart from any other dental office is that we have assembled a dental team that is excellent in skills and service! Each and every individual has been selected with great care for their exceptional personality, and the entire team works together impeccably with kids and their parents to ensure everyone has a clear roadmap of their dental future. “We are very conservative in our recommendations”, states Dr. Jarod. “We follow AAPD guidelines advising every child to have the first dental check up by age 1. When you start early and provide a safe, nurturing environment for the little ones, you earn their trust. Our goal is to ensure our patients and future generations do not have a fear of the dental office”.

Helping children form healthy oral habits and making their visits to the dentist a fun experience will be the foundation of a lifetime of dental health according to Drs. Jarod and Cele Oliver.

Some of the services we offer include • Cosmetic dentistry for kids • Digital X-rays • Treatment of special needs and medically compromised children • Nitrous Oxide (laughing gas) • Oral Sedation • IV Sedation • Orthodontics for ALL Ages • Over the top Customer Service

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PARTNERSHIP continues from pg. 22 responder coordinator. In addition to lectures and independent study on topics including anatomy, physiology and pharmacology, students also participate in clinical rotations at University Hospital and ride along with San Antonio Fire Department ambulances, where they can perform basic skills such as taking patients’ vital signs, obtaining medical histories and performing breathing control.

“Most of what they are getting from these ride outs is getting the realworld skills of watching paramedics do their jobs,” Battros said.

One of the biggest organizational challenges has been fine-tuning how to present the course material in a onehour class, five days a week, he said.

“It’s not taught like a traditional high school class,” Battros said.

“They have to be self-motivated and do a lot of self study.”

Students have even helped save lives, he said, explaining that during an ambulance ride out this fall, a Madison EMT student was part of the team that resuscitated a patient who had gone into cardiac arrest.

Some students take the class and discover a career in the medical field is not the right fit for them, which is part of the process of discovery and exploration that high school students should be encouraged to experience, said Johnny Vahalik, director of Career and Technical Education at NEISD. Even if students decide not to pursue their EMT certification, they still finish the class with a sense of pride for having mastered skills — including life-saving, critical thinking and interpersonal — that will benefit them no matter what career path they choose, Vahalik said.

“This is another measure of being college and career ready,” he said.

An EMT course began at Roosevelt several years ago with a different partner, but Vahalik credited the partnership with UTHSCSA, now in its second year, for enabling the district to expand the program. Vahalik said he hopes to make the EMT program available districtwide.

The EMT class that University of Texas at Austin freshman Claire Fazzone took at Churchill last year helped her decide what destiny to follow. She plans to use her certification in multiple ways, including as an EMT on campus, as a volunteer nurse at a campus clinic and as a summer-camp nurse.

Her ultimate goal is to become a physician assistant.

“I wasn’t even interested in a medical career before I took this class and now all I want to do is medicine,” Fazzone said. “It was just so interesting and I never would have had the chance to experience that.”

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

Win Well Tennis matching customers with sport

by ERIC MORENO

L

et longtime tennis instructor, fan and storeowner Dave Watts serve you. His shop, Win Well Tennis, which also offers racket restringing, at 18720 Stone Oak Parkway, Suite 152 in Stone Oak Plaza, has been open for just under a year.

Watts, who began the business to take advantage of the game’s growth, said residents appreciate his enterprise in the neighborhood.

“Stone Oak is a great area of town for us in that everything seems to converge out here,” Watts said. “Everyone has really enjoyed the store and what we have to offer. I like to say that we do a good job of curating our merchandise in that I

Win Well Tennis (above, photo by Alejandra Casas) caters to enthusiasts and players, from offering the latest shoes to restringing rackets (both far left, photo by Collette Orquiz).

try to find what I think are the best and coolest products and apparel. I think that sets us apart from other stores.”

The shop nets a plethora of tennis accoutrement, including the highly in demand Babolat rackets; Wilson balls; and Nike apparel, Lacoste and the well-liked TravisMathew line, endorsed by former pro stars Andy Roddick and James Blake.

“We also offer a full line of tennis shoes for men, women, boys and girls,” Watts said.

“Asics, right now, is our most popular seller.

Most people are unaware how popular they are in the industry and in the sport. We also

(stock) Nike shoes and Adidas. I think we have a really cool mix of equipment and clothing.

Aesthetically, I think we have kind of a vintage feel. Everyone seems to enjoy it so far.”

Hours are 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

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WIN WELL TENNIS 18720 Stone Oak Parkway, Suite 152 For more, call 492-0200 or visit www.iwinwell.com or facebook.com/winwelltennis

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Planet Fitness opens latest SA location

by PETER MORALEZ

P

lanet Fitness has landed on the far North Side with its newest San Antonio location.

“As a lifelong resident, I’m proud of the expansion and commitment that Planet Fitness has made in San Antonio,” said Lisa Ybarbo, area manager. “I feel that it’s imperative to open locations in areas that will make it convenient for individuals to join our gym and take advantage of all we have to offer.”

The latest fitness center is at 20760 U.S. 281 North. It is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

“We have 90 cardiovascular machines, dumbbells, weight-lifting benches and cable towers to accommodate any level of workout that someone wants to get

get

massage chairs and tanning beds.

Some locales also offer haircuts by appointment, as well as HydroMassage.

“We invite everyone to come to our newest location and see all that we have to offer, the cleanliness we work very hard to maintain, and then join Planet Fitness and get in the best shape of your life,” Ybarbo said.

Make 2016 Your Year HAPPENING continues on pg. 09

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involved in,” Ybarbo said. “And this is all available in what we have truly created, a ‘Judgment Free Zone.’”

The statement sums up the Planet Fitness philosophy, Ybarbo said: It’s a personal guarantee that those walking into the gym — whether for the first time or the hundredth — are welcome and treated equally.

“It’s our goal to have our guests get into the best shape they desire, and to do so with the assistance of our fitness trainer, who offers small group classes on a daily basis, and who will create a workout regimen that will help anyone work on whatever they want to work on,” she said. “And all of this at the affordable membership price of only $10 a month, for unlimited visits to your home gym.”

There also is an upgrade membership available for $19.99 a month that includes use of the fitness centers at any of the 12 greater San Antonio locations,

The newest Planet Fitness location promotes healthy exercise in a Judgment Free Zone that welcomes all patrons, whether novice or expert. It is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Photo by Collette Orquiz

PLANET FITNESS 20760 U.S. 281 North For more, call 455-6835 or visit www.planetfitness.com

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FEB. 29 - MARCH 28, 2016

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Whipping up treats at new Smoothie King

by OLIVIER J. BOURGOIN

N

ew Orleans-based Smoothie King — “Smoothies With a Purpose” — is continuing its San Antonio expansion by offering more than healthy drinks.

With two existing stores under her belt already, owner Sharon Repka Heausler opened a third Smoothie King franchise, 17910 Bulverde Road, Suite 107, in early February.

The Smoothie King at the intersection with Loop 1604 is poised to make a difference in customers’ lives by providing tasty treats that also are healthy, Heausler said.

“We are more than a smoothie shop,” Heausler said during a recent telephone

interview. “We are a nutritional life center.

We offer supplements and healthy snacks and we have a product for every situation, whether you want to lose weight or gain weight or just maintain a healthy weight.”

Since the opening of its first outlet in New Orleans in 1973, Smoothie King has been growing. There are more than 650 stores across three continents including Korea, as well as Singapore and Grand Cayman Island.

“I opened my first store in January 2008 at 1604 and Bandera (Road) and in May of 2013 I took over an existing location at 1604 and (U.S.) 281,” Heausler said. “It’s a brand I believe in. I’m from New Orleans and I grew up with it.”

The 1,400-square-foot store serves more than 40 flavors.

Her favorite smoothie is “Strawberry Lean1, add Mango.”

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The motto 'Smoothies With A Purpose' on the wall of the new Smoothie King is part of the company's promotion as a nutritional life center with healthy snacks. Photo by Collette Orquiz

A customer favorite is The Gladiator, with 45 grams of protein plus two fruits of choice.

“That’s my husband’s favorite,” Heausler added.

Smoothies come in 20-ounce, 32-ounce or 40-ounce portions.

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SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM

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

Vida Mia opens second, larger North Side location A recently debuted second restaurant at 22250 Bulverde Road, Suite 114 at Evans Road, offers the same authentic dishes brought from Monterrey, Mexico, but with more space, outdoor seating and — very soon — a bar with happy-hour specials.

“Until the bar opens, it is bring your own bottle,” said Maria Ramos who,

by JACQUE CROUSE

I

n April 2011, the Ramos family launched the first Vida Mia Mexican Cuisine in Stone Oak, quickly followed by accolades and waiting lists.

along with sister and cook Mayela, plus parents Jose and Maria Elena, owns and operates Vida Mia. For the health-conscious, the family has started a smoothie bar at the new locale in The Shops at Fossil Creek.

A restaurant standout is all-day breakfast, especially the chilaquiles which are layered works of art, Ramos said.

“It is not the mixed traditional chilaquiles you see most often,” Ramos said. “My sister, the chef, is very creative and has a way of presenting that is unique and beautiful.”

Ramos added the eatery’s madefrom-scratch delights include salsas, tortillas, tamales and sweets like orange muffins, granola muffins, empanadas, flan and chocolate cake.

Vida Mia is known for specialties.

Customer favorites include campechana (sliced pork and beefsteak with Oaxaca cheese); sopes (layered with beans, pulled chicken and Picadillo with green salsa and cheese); huaraches (thick, oblong doughy tortillas topped with Mexican cream and queso fresco, plus other toppings); and molletes (crusty, baked baguettes covered with refried beans, Jack cheese and either chorizo, rajas or crispy bacon).

Lunch specials are off-the-menu items that change often. If a lunch dish

The new Vida Mia Mexican Cuisine (far left) offers a variety of dishes, including muffins and pastries, tortilla soup and Vida Mia chilaquiles. Photos by Collette Orquiz

is popular enough, it may become part of the everyday menu.

Hours are 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 7 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

Sunday through Thursday hours will increase when the bar opens.

VIDA MIA MEXICAN CUISINE 22250 Bulverde Road, Suite 114 For more, call 490-2013 or visit www.vidamiacuisine.com

Find Pleasure In Your Purpose.

Monday Special: $

12 Large Pizza up to 11 toppings

Happy Hour

Great Food, Full Service Bar, 27 Flat Screen TVs, Outdoor Kid Zone....

ALL Day Tuesday

What more could you ask for?

Kids Eat FREE Every Tuesday

Open for Lunch and Dinner

Spurs Game Day: $2.50 Domestic Draft

Center Court Pizza

Stone Oak Pkwy

210-497-5152

www.centercourtpizza.com

Blanco Rd.

20711 Wilderness Oaks San Antonio, TX 78258

Wilderness Oaks.

.

ner Rd Hueb

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GRAND OPENING

*W/ Purchase of Adult Entree *Must order off Kids Menu, No Drinks Included

Hours: Sun. - Thurs. 11am-10pm • Fri.-Sat: 11am-11pm

17910 Bulverde Rd. Ste. 107 San Antonio, TX 78259

210-719-7963 sk1142@smoothieking.com

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

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