NEISD SCHOOLS From the Editor
Legislative session, enrollment concern NEISD — PG. 14 Superintendent urges parents to stick with public schools
FEB. 27 - MARCH 27, 2017
PG.19 EAT LOCAL
VOL. 3, ISSUE 10
MOD PIZZA
Let’s keep calm
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PG. 05 OUR TURN
School tests need review
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COMMUNITY NEWS
SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF STONE OAK
ENCINO PARK
FAR NORTH • 78258 78259 78260 78261 n HEALTH CARE — PG. 10
STROKE PREVENTION & TREATMENT New advances made to fight the disease PUBLIC SERVICE
Bexar-Bulverde VFD observes half-century of assistance
Department continues to grow; third station on the way — PG. 17
SUSAN YERKES
TRAFFIC STOPPER
WOMEN’S HISTORY, WOMEN’S CHOICE
New stoplights at troubled Stone Oak intersection Unique partnership: POA paid city for signals, SA did the work — PG. 16
Grandmother’s journal creates new appreciation for equal rights — PG. 04
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FEB. 27 - MARCH 27, 2017
FROM THE EDITOR tedwards@localcommunitynews.com
Delivering Integrity Since 1954
President Harold J. Lees
Publisher Gregg Rosenfield
Assoc. Publisher Rick Upton
Director of Operations Jaselle Luna
EDITORIAL Executive Editor Thomas Edwards News Staff Collette Orquiz and Bain Serna Contributing Writers Ron Aaron Eisenberg, Edmond Ortiz, Kimberly Rivera, Arthur Schechter and Susan Yerkes ART Creative Director Florence D. Edwards
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ADVERTISING Account Manager Amber Montemayor Controller Gracie Cortinez READER SERVICE Mailing Address 4204 Gardendale St., Ste. 201, SA, TX 78229 Fax Phone (210) 616.9677 (210) 338.8842 Advertising Inquiries jluna@localcommunitynews.com Story Ideas: tips@localcommunitynews.com Website: www.localcommunitynews.com LOCAL Community News publications Zone 1: 78204, 78205, 78209, 78210, 78212, 78215 Zone 2/3: 78213, 78216, 78230, 78231, 78232, 78248, 78249 Zone 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, 2017 Helen Publishing LLC and Local Community News LLC, all rights reserved.
Let’s keep calm
T
he violent protests on the day of President Donald Trump’s inauguration, and afterwards, went well beyond peaceful dissent. Just as egregious were cries declaring Jan. 20 one of America’s darkest days. April 12, 1861, when the Civil War started, was a sad time for the United States. So was Oct. 29, 1929, which culminated in the crash of the stock market. The same goes for Dec. 7, 1941, when imperial Japan bombed Pearl Harbor. And who will ever forget the terror attacks of Sept. 11, 2001? Jan. 20 represented nothing more than a civil transition of power. Tanks didn’t roll into the cities; no leader was hauled to a guillotine. Folks, let’s keep things in perspective by exercising self-control and maintaining polite discourse, not dividing the country and rioting. Exercise reason and dismiss the hyperbole. Sure, Trump isn’t popular with everybody, and many of his policies bear scrutiny. Nor is this column an endorsement of Trump. It’s merely a plea to assemble peacefully when disagreeing — or agreeing — with his actions. When President Barack Obama took office, supporters urged calm and tolerance, and rightly so. Doesn’t the new administration deserve the same, or are we a nation of hypocrites?
THOMAS EDWARDS EXECUTIVE EDITOR ON THE COVER After funding of $300,000 by the Stone Oak Property Owners Association, the city has finished installing traffic lights at Arrow Hill Street and Stone Oak Parkway. Residents and motorists say traffic flow has improved. See story on page 16. Photo by Collette Orquiz
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FEB. 27 - MARCH 27, 2017
LOCAL COMMENTARY
Women’s history, women’s choices by SUSAN YERKES
M
arch is Women’s History Month, a time to illuminate the roles strong women have played in our national story. This month seems like a good time to point out a few aspects of women’s history – both public and personal. First, the personal. My mother’s mother, Bess Moore Campbell (“Mimi” to me), was the only grandparent I ever knew, and she was the best one I can imagine. She read me Charles
Dickens, John Steinbeck and American folktales. She died in 1972, and remains one of the most important people in my life. A couple of years ago, I found her journal among some personal papers. It shocked and surprised me. I never knew my grandfather. He left Mimi while their fourth and youngest child, my mother, was still in high school. I never knew why she lived with us and had little money of her own to speak of. Her journals told the story. Mimi was born to a third-generation Scots-American farm family in the little town of Commerce, Missouri, in 1880. A good student, she had ambitions to teach and write. But family came first, and in her 20s she married. They had three sons and then a daughter— my mom— who developed polio and required extensive care. Mimi didn’t want more children. But the Comstock Law, passed in 1873, outlawed contraception. In order to keep from getting pregnant, she gave up sex — and her husband left her, she confided in the journal. Still his wife (she never divorced),
Mimi had no ownership rights. She could not get a bank loan or credit without her husband’s signature, so she lost her house as well as the farm. Without financial support or a house, Mimi went to St. Louis to find a teaching job. She sent the money back to Commerce for the care of my uncles and my mom, who were being looked after by friends while they finished high school. Mimi came to stay with my mother and father when I was young, and my mom cared for her until she died. She never told me her story. Reading her journal, so long after her death, illuminated women’s history for me in a new way. Today, the word “choice” has been unfortunately politicized, but many different, hard-won choices have changed women’s history in the past 100 years. Today, as a woman, I enjoy choices my grandmother never had, thanks to many strong women who came before me. Susan B. Anthony and other suffragettes fought for women’s right to vote. Finally, in 1920, when my grandmother was halfway through
her life, the 19th Amendment to the Constitution gave us that right. Margaret Sanger, a trained nurse, believed women needed to make healthy, informed choices about when to have children. She opened the first birth-control clinic in America in 1916, and was arrested and jailed for it. About a half-century later, birth control gradually became legal through a series of court battles. Texan Louise Raggio, born in 1919, was the only woman in her Southern Methodist University law class in 1952. In the ’60s, she devoted years to writing and lobbying for a Marital Property Act to give Texas women access to banking, real estate, credit, divorce and more. That law was passed in 1967, five years before my grandmother died. This Women’s History Month, I’m enormously grateful as I reflect on the choices I enjoy in so many aspects of my life. I never want to forget women like my grandmother, who never had those choices — or those who still don’t have them. syerkes@localcommunitynews.com
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LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM
OUR TURN Views and opinions about your community
Standardized tests need to go
L
awmakers are realizing what parents, students and educators learned a long time ago — standardized tests are failing as the best option for gauging educational preparedness.
It’s time Washington and Austin got out of the classroom, and allowed local communities to set testing standards. Regulatory burdens placed on school districts need reduction. Rep. Jason Isaac, R-Dripping Springs, is pushing for reforms seeking alternatives to the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness,
such as using other evaluators, which meet national norms. He also wants to decrease the frequency of examinations. Local school boards should be the ones deciding on benchmarks — and how many — during the academic year for measuring how students are faring. Federal and state mandates ranging from the No Child Left Behind Act to Common Core State Standards Initiative have missed the mark. Not only did STAAR testing encounter glitches in its last cycle, but also hours spent girding for the exams could be better utilized. Wouldn’t it be better to channel the millions of dollars spent on standardized testing to more worthy enterprises benefiting a school district and its patrons? No one denies schoolchildren’s progress requires assessing, but don’t let the tail wag the dog. The pursuit of knowledge should be the goal of the education system, not teaching to the test. -The Local Community News editorial board includes Harry Lees, Gregg Rosenfield and Thomas Edwards.
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FEB. 27 - MARCH 27, 2017
HAPPENING LOCAL
Plan your month with our calendar of upcoming events in the community.
OUR GUIDE TO YOUR MONTH
HAPPENING KEY
FITNESS
I’M ALL EARS The Reagan High School 27 Orchestra will conduct a free 7 p.m. concert at Reagan High School, 19000 Ronald Reagan Drive. For more, call 356-1800.
FEB.
OFF AND RUNNING MSSA Family Fun Run, benefiting 4 The Montessori School of San Antonio, takes place at 8:40 a.m. from 17722 Rogers Ranch Parkway. Registration ($15 for adults, $10 for youths) will be handled in classrooms. For more on the campus’ 1-mile run/ walk, email DeeAnn Mendenhall at deeann@wd-homes.com.
MARCH
ART
EVENT
OUTDOOR
MUSIC
magnify the training. No experience necessary. For more, call 207-2703.
health, wellness and fitness, with a 5K Run/Walk, Kids’ Fun Run and Health Fair. Proceeds benefit the school’s PTA. For registration costs and more, visit http:// runfortheheights.tuscanyheightspta.org.
FOOD
FEELING THIRSTY … AND LUCKY? The banquet hall at 4 Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 20523 Huebner Road, hosts Casino Royale Wine Tasting and Casino Party, from 6:30-10 p.m. Tickets ($85 per person, $150 per couple) benefit the Stone Oak Rotary Club scholarship fund and other charities. For more and to make purchases, visit www.StoneOakRotaryAuction.org.
MARCH
READY, SET, GO! The seventh annual Run for the Heights will 4 take place at Tuscany Heights Elementary School, 25001 Wilderness Oak Road, at 8 a.m. The community is invited to participate for a morning of
MARCH
ENCINO PARK GAME DAY Come to Encino Park 9 Community Center, 1923 Encino Rio St., at 1:30 p.m. on the second Thursday in the month for various game-related activities. Non-Encino Park residents are welcome, too. For more, contact Dyan Montesclaros at 481-7890.
MARCH
ENCINO PARK OVER 50 CLUB folks a half-century 7, 21 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, meal gatherings and events. For more, call Dyan Montesclaros at 481-7890.
MARCH
PUTTING THE “HEAL” IN “HEALTH” Realize your 8 own healing potential from 10:30 a.m. to noon at 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
MARCH
MILITARY WELCOME American Legion Post 11 10 holds an 8-9:30 a.m. breakfast meeting 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, plus spouses and guests, are invited. For more, email Hector Cavazos, post commander, at hcavazospost10@ yahoo.com or call 325-5627.
MARCH
HAPPENING continues on pg. 07
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LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM HAPPENING continues from pg. 06 SCHOOL’S OUT North East and 13-17 Comal independent school district campuses will be closed for Spring Break. For more, visit www.neisd.net or www.comalisd.org.
MARCH
SO, YOU THINK YOU CAN SEW The sewing club meets on the 14 second Tuesday of the 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 an extension cord. For more, contact Sylvia Jolet at sjolet@earthlink.net or call 497-3383.
MARCH
CALLING ALL SUPER SENIOR SINGLES Are you single, 18 divorced or widowed, and 50 or over? If so, fellowship, games, fun and lunch await noon to 4 p.m. every third Saturday of the month at Cornerstone Church’s Bythel Hagee Life Center, 18755 Stone Oak Parkway. Cost is $3. For more, call 493-9535, ext. 4 or visit www.sacornerstone.org.
MARCH
SINGLES OF A CERTAIN AGE Dinner and spiritual 21 conversation is on the menu at 6:30 p.m. every third Tuesday of the month at Cornerstone Church’s Bythel Hagee Life Center, 18755 Stone Oak Parkway. The evolving ministry, Singles with Purpose, is a get-together for adults ages 35-50. Cost is $5. For more, call 493-9535, ext. 1724 or visit www.sacornerstone.org.
MARCH
NEISD PARENTS Share a cup of coffee and a conversation 22 with North East Independent School District Superintendent Brian Gottardy at MacArthur High School, 2923 MacArthur View St., from 7:30-8:30 a.m. For more on his “Coffee Talk” series at NEISD campuses, visit www.neisd.net.
MARCH
DISTRICT 9 NEIGHBORHOOD MARCH ALLIANCE The next gathering 22 will be at 7 p.m. in Stone Oak Methodist Hospital, 1139 E. Sonterra Blvd., classroom No. 1 and No. 2. The hospital is just off U.S. 281 North. For more, call Art Downey, alliance president, at 497-8873.
MARCH
25
PAPERCRAFTING AND SCRAPBOOK CLUB Visit Parman Branch Library,
20735 Wilderness Oak Road, from 1-5:45 for a paper-therapy event. Begin with a demonstration of a technique, layout idea or project, and then work on your own fun such as cardmaking or scrapbooking. All expertise levels welcome. Registration is required. Classes limited to 15 participants. For more, email Christina Reyna at christinareyna0913@gmail.com.
Restaurant & Wedding Venue
SPRING CLEANING The Stone Oak Property Owners 25 Association, 19210 Huebner Road, will have a dumping and donation station in the parking lot from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Intended for Stone Oak residents only. For more, visit www.stoneoakpoa.com.
MARCH
SHAPING UP FOR A NEW YOU MONDAYS While Parman Branch Library, 20735 Wilderness Oak Road, usually exercises your mind, come work your body from 10-11 a.m. An instructor will lead a free class in low-impact circuit training; designed mostly for seniors. For more, call Barbara Kwiatkowski at 207-2703. CARVE OUT YOUR NICHE The Alamo Area Wood Carvers Club meets from 12:30-3:30 p.m. every Tuesday at Parman Branch Library, 20735 Wilderness Oak Road. The group also gathers there the first and third Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more, call 207-2703.
TUESDAYS & SELECTED SATURDAYS
THE BEST KEPT SECRET IN SAN ANTONIO. Brunch 11 to 3 Sat & Sun Dinner 5 to 10 Wed to Sunday
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. Even children not yet reading can narrate a wordless book. For more, call 207-9250.
ELSEWHERE HELPING FOSTER CHILDREN The Steele High School Band 4 and Steele Band Boosters are hosting a mattress sale 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the school foyer, 1300 FM 1103 in Cibolo, to benefit Family Link at Legacy Ranch, a nonprofit licensed foster care and adoption agency. For more, visit www.steelebandboosters.org.
MARCH
SUBMITTING EVENTS: Email details to tips@localcommunitynews.com.
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FEB. 27 - MARCH 27, 2017
FACT:
We encourage children to explore their natural curiosity about the world.
LOCAL LOWDOWN Take a quick look at what’s new in the community from opening and closings to news tidbits. Address of local business
Open and Opening Soon 1. RODRY LIQUOR, 18720 Stone Oak
BALANCED LEARNING® WAY:
No wonder the atmosphere is electric. CALL TO SCHEDULE A VISIT! Primrose School at Bulverde Road – NOW OPEN 210.494.9900 | PrimroseBulverdeRoad.com Primrose School at Cibolo Canyons 210.479.7099 | PrimroseCiboloCanyons.com Each Primrose school is a privately owned and operated franchise. Primrose Schools® and Balanced Learning® are registered trademarks of Primrose School Franchising Company. ©2016 Primrose School Franchising Company. All rights reserved. See primroseschools.com for ‘fact’ source and curriculum detail.
Helping Children and Adults Breathe and Sleep Better Understanding Your Child’s Brain
EXCITING NEWS!
In June, we will open up a Lockhill-Selma location - Our Pediatric Neuro Center Dr Carter Richards will move from the Huebner location to Lockhill-Selma and see patients starting June 5. Dr Jerry Tomasovic will join Texas Pediatric Specialties and Family Sleep Center at the Lockhill-Selma office July 3. To compliment the Neuro Center, there will be a suite for Road Runner Research located in the Pediatric Neuro Center. This research center for pediatric neurology and pediatric pulmonology is overseen by Dr Tomasovic and Drs Patel and Smith. In June, the Shavano Park location will become our Pulmonology Center.
Parkway, Suite 150, recently held a grand opening, and offers patrons a variety of liquors, wines and craft beers. The store also features daily specials, military discounts, tasting events, gift baskets and gift-wrapping for any occasion. Hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday. For more, call 616-4264 or visit www. rodryliquor.com. (See story on page 18)
2. MOD PIZZA, 22026 U.S. 281 North, Suite 105, is one of the latest in the franchise to launch in San Antonio. The pizzeria serves individual artisan-style pies handcrafted in front of customers using freshly pressed dough and signature sauces; there are more than 30 topping choices. Hours are 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. For more, call 318-3338 or visit modpizza.com. (See story on page 19) 3. DUNKIN’ DONUTS AND BASKINROBBINS, 23503 Hardy Oak Blvd., will
hold a grand opening at their shared location 10 a.m. to noon March 4. The celebration supports the Lopez Middle School band and orchestra, and features balloons and face painting. Customers coming to the new shops will find coffee, ice cream, breakfast sandwiches, doughnuts, muffins, ice-cream shakes, smoothies and frozen coffee; cakes can be ordered online. Hours are 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. For more, call 481-9229 or visit dunkindonuts.com or baskinrobbins.com.
4. CAREER LANGUAGE TRAINING,
Dr. Tomasovic, MD Board certified in Pediatrics and Neurology
Dr Richards, MD Board certified in Pediatric Neurology
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19239 Stone Oak Parkway, Suite 103, offers Spanish- and English-language fluency lessons to improve one’s career, according to management. “Learn a new language easily and have fun in the process. In 30 days, you will see amazing results.” Hours are 6-8 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Thursday. For more, call 284-7060 or visit www. careerlanguagetraining.com.
Name of local business
IN OTHER NEWS CITY COUNCIL HAS APPROVED sending an $850 million bond issue to voters for approval on May 6. The bond, which doesn’t call for a property-tax increase, is designed to fund dozens of infrastructure and quality-of-life issues. Some projects could affect the far North Side, including $2.7 million for Evans Road corridor and intersection improvements, $6.3 million for Hardy Oak Boulevard and Huebner Road extensions, $500,000 for Loop 1604 turnarounds at Bulverde Road, $1.1 million for Panther Springs Creek restoration and other local initiatives. REAGAN HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS SOCCER dominated local action during National Signing Day on Feb. 2, but placements also went to Johnson High School athletes. Six Reagan teammates autographed letters of intent to play for various universities. They include Taylor Olson and Lauren Anderson (Oklahoma State University); Gaby Olsen (St. Mary’s University); Cori Hernandez (Louisiana Tech University); and Christa Morovitz and Jala Tousant (University of Texas at Dallas). Other Rattler signings included Derek Kerstetter (University of Texas at Austin) and Marquis Duncan (University of Mary Hardin-Baylor) from football; and James Inman (Lubbock Christian University) and Justin Sukow (University of South Carolina) from boys soccer. Meanwhile, Johnson was well represented with eight student-athletes: Michael Goff (University of Texas at San Antonio) and Zach Elder (Prairie View A&M University) from football; Seth Holtzmann (Virginia Military Institute) and Miguel Ortega (St. Mary’s) from boys soccer; Ariana Shroyer and Raquel Morris (Texas Lutheran University) from girls soccer; Mia Moreno (Avila University) from softball; and Jason Checchin (University of the Incarnate Word) from swimming and diving. SEVERAL REAGAN HIGH SCHOOL CHOIR MEMBERS JOINED legendary rock band
LOWDOWN continues on pg. 09
9
LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM LOWDOWN continues from pg. 08 Foreigner onstage Feb. 2 at the Majestic Theatre during a performance of the group’s 1984 hit “I Want to Know What Love Is.” The students sang backup vocals in the hit ballad. Foreigner also donated $500 to the school choir in appreciation. JOHNSON HIGH SCHOOL JUNIOR ADAM DEYOUNG EARNED a trip to Washington, D.C., to compete at the national level Feb. 25 after his essay “My Responsibility to America” was selected from the Voice of Democracy audio-essay program, sponsored by the Veterans of Foreign Wars. DeYoung’s composition honors U.S. military service members. The Jaguar, representing Texas, will have an opportunity to win $30,000 in scholarship money, according to officials. SAN ANTONIO METROPOLITAN HEALTH DISTRICT RECENTLY confirmed a case of tuberculosis in a patient at North Central Baptist Hospital. The sufferer, now off-campus, isolated and in stable
condition, is responding well to treatment, according to officials. Though Metro Health said the risk of infection is low, testing and screening have been conducted with those potentially affected. BULVERDE CREEK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL FIRST-GRADER ILIANA ORALLO got a surprise at school Feb. 7 when her father, Army Capt. Robert Marcus Orallo III, returned home from a six-month tour of duty in Iraq. The unsuspecting student attended story time in the cafeteria with her classmates. The teacher, who had just finished reading a fairy tale penned by the serviceman, told the girl to turn around. Standing before Iliana was her dad with a bouquet of pink flowers. She couldn’t stop hugging him, teachers said. “THE LEADER IN ME” grant has helped turn Indian Springs Elementary School into a model campus by instilling leadership qualities in students, according to officials. “The Leader in Me” is based on Stephen Covey’s best-selling book, “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.”
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FEB. 27 - MARCH 27, 2017
HEALTH CARE
STROKE PREVENTION & TREATMENT
SA medicine works to treat, end strokes by RON AARON EISENBERG
S
trokes are a serious medical emergency. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 800,000 Americans annually suffer a stroke, with about threequarters classified as first-time occurrences. It’s the fifth-leading U.S. killer at nearly 130,000 people a year, or one out of 20 deaths.
ISCHEMIC STROKES
87
%
OF STROKES ARE THE RESULT OF BLOOD CLOTS IN THE BRAIN
Every 40 seconds someone in the United States has a stroke, defined as blood flow to the brain interrupted by a blockage (clot), or a rupture (tear) in an artery, depriving the brain of oxygen. Strokes caused by blood clots are called ischemic (87 percent); others resulting from bleeding in the brain, or the surrounding area, are termed hemorrhagic. While everyone is susceptible, San Antonio is on the forefront of research and development for treatment and prevention, health care workers said. “Pre-2009, things were not good in San Antonio for stroke care. Patients were even being transferred to Austin where treatment was much better than here,” said Dr. Lee Birnbaum, director of the Stroke Center at University Health System and associate professor of neurology and neurosurgery at UT Health San Antonio (formerly the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio), “but that’s no longer the case. We are now a world-class center for stroke care.” According to Birnbaum, University Hospital is one of only three comprehensive stroke centers in Bexar County and is the only American Heart Association/ American Stroke Association certified by the nonprofit the Joint Commission as a comprehensive stroke center in South Texas. That means the hospital has met the more stringent certification measures
HEMORRHAGIC STROKES
13
%
OF STROKES ARE THE RESULT OF BLEEDING IN THE BRAIN
demanded by The Joint Commission, which accredits health care operations. On its website, University Hospital notes it is in an elite group of only three hospitals statewide and slightly more than 100 hospitals across the country to be so recognized by The Joint Commission. “With that certification, University Hospital is said to excel in all aspects of stroke care – from prevention, to treatment of even the most complex patients, to recovery and rehabilitation, to research into new and better therapies,” Birnbaum said. In addition, San Antonio MDNews recounted the hospital launched a communitywide education campaign
ISCHEMIC STROKES
AN OBSTRUCTION WITHIN A BLOOD VESSEL SUPPLYING BLOOD TO THE BRAIN.
HEMORRHAGIC STROKES OCCURS WHEN A WEAKENED BLOOD VESSEL RUPTURES.
TRANSIENT ISCHEMIC ATTACK CAUSED BY A TEMPORARY CLOT. OFTEN CALLED A “MINI STROKE”.
to generate broad public understanding of stroke symptoms and the need to get patients to the hospital as quickly as possible if a stroke is suspected. The campaign uses F.A.S.T., or the major warning signs of stroke, as its focal point – facial droop, arm weakness, slurred speech and time critical. Coupled with the outreach effort, University Hospital also initiated an internal stroke-education campaign. Every University Health System employee, from clinical staff to administrators, has a card attached to their identification badge listing the F.A.S.T. symptoms and the internal phone number to trigger a stroke alert. Stroke centers in Bexar County can diagnose the type of stroke, and administer clot-busting drugs if it’s ischemic. Patients with hemorrhagic strokes often need surgery to relieve the brain bleed and can be treated at the comprehensive stroke centers. The centers include University Hospital, St Luke’s Baptist Hospital and at Methodist Healthcare System. Stroke risk can be reduced by embracing a healthier lifestyle, including a balanced diet, increased exercise and lowering high blood pressure. On ways to reach these goals, visit www.strokeassociation.org. Stroke-prevention tips offered by Harvard Health at www.health.harvard. edu include lowering blood pressure, losing weight, exercising more, drinking in moderation, treating atrial fibrillation and diabetes, and quitting smoking. Corinthia “Cori” Nash, regional stroke program coordinator at Christus Santa Rosa Health System, notes females are in greater danger. “More women die from stroke and heart attack each year than from all forms of cancer combined,” Nash said. “Women are more likely to die of stroke and heart attack then men. Pregnant women have a higher risk for stroke as do women after menopause.” The CDC reports AfricanAmericans and Hispanics also are more prone to strokes than Anglos. High blood pressure is by far the leading cause, but age also plays a factor.
HOW TO SPOT A STROKE
F.A.S.T. FACE DROOPING
ARM
WEAKNESS
SPEEECH DIFFICULTY
TIME
CALL 911
SOURCE: STROKEASSOCIATION.ORG
The American Stroke Association warns people who are physically inactive, eat too much salt and overindulge with alcohol are at higher risk for elevated blood pressure. Although rare, youngsters can also have strokes. “Two in 100,000 children suffer a stroke every year, but children with sickle cell anemia have a much greater chance of stroke,” said Dr. Gary Bobele, a pediatric neurologist at The Children’s Hospital of San Antonio. The Internet Stroke Center, www. strokecenter.org, reports an estimated 17 percent of kids under 14 with sickle cell disease have silent strokes; the rate increases to 23 percent by 18. Silent strokes occur without obvious outward symptoms such as movement difficulties. Getting victims help rapidly is critical, doctors said. “For every 15 minutes you delay stroke care, four out of 1,000 people will die,” said Dr. Adam Blanchette, a neurologist and stroke and telemedicine director for Methodist Healthcare System. “Therefore, if you think you are having a stroke, call 911. You want to get to a hospital as quickly as possible.” With modern medical advancements, often strokes don’t translate to dying. “Stroke used to be considered a death sentence,” said Dr. Mark Ogden, regional stroke program medical director for Christus Santa Rosa, “but no longer. There is more hope today.”
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12
FEB. 27 - MARCH 27, 2017
Drama program is like a family by BAIN SERNA
C
ASTLE HILLS — If “all the world’s a stage,” then Hollie Martinez wants to make sure as many students as possible get a chance to enjoy the limelight at Antonian College Preparatory High School.
Fans of the theater director, who is in her third year at the private school, say Martinez has transformed the drama program from a run-of-the-mill elective and extracurricular activity into a vital learning experience. Under her guidance, school officials add, students are producing and starring in high-quality theater productions. “Antonian had a history of having a strong theater program many years
Students in theater arts at Antonian College Preparatory High School say the program under Hollie Martinez makes them feel like a family. Photo by Collette Orquiz
ago, but it kind of fell by the wayside,” said Vice Principal Diann Montemayor. “When Hollie came on board it just really infused new life into the theater program. She’s been able to open up wonderful opportunities for students.” The change is evident in the students themselves.
“Seeing the drama program flourish in such a short amount of time … is amazing,” said junior Joel DeJesus. “Ms. Martinez is the most hard working, dedicated person I have met in my 17-year-old life.” The Antonian drama program has brought teacher and students
closer together in a search for a common artistic vision, pupils said. “Drama became my motivation and all these people became like family,” said junior Cassidy Moran, who recently won the “best actress” award in district and state competition; Antonian overall also won first-place in district. “They always push you to do and be better. We use each other as motivation and inspiration.” “It’s my family away from my family, and my family is close, so that’s saying something.” said junior Kyle Hudnall. Martinez believes the arts are an important part of a high school education because they increase creativity, imagination, social and emotional growth, learning, critical thinking and problem-solving. “Theater arts allows all students to be creative, to use their imagination,” Martinez said. “Thoughts, hopes and inspirations can be expressed through dance, music, movement and speech where there may not have been an opportunity
ANTONIAN continues on pg. 13
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ANTONIAN continues from pg. 12 or venue before. Students learn that they can get up in front of others with strength, confidence and poise, regardless of any prior inhibitions or physical and emotional challenges. They learn this in a fun and safe, nonjudgmental environment and develop a camaraderie like none other.” During her tenure at Antonian, the drama program has mounted numerous productions, one-act plays for Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools competitions, musicals, dinnertheater plays and other acting contests. The next production is “Shrek-The Musical,” set to open in March. “We try our very best to give the audience a memorable and enjoyable evening by going above and beyond what is expected of high school theater musicals, and producing high-quality shows,” Martinez said. “Students generally live up to what is expected of them, and I have high expectations.” Martinez wants to see the theater arts program grow and include as
PAY THE DAY Antonian College Preparatory High School theater director Hollie Martinez displays a poster from a past production of 'Aladdin.' Photo by Collette Orquiz
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many students as possible, while contributing to the community. “There is always a blend of all types of students with all kinds of goals and direction,” she said. “Some just have fun in high school and develop a love of theater while others pursue their education in theater past high school and into college. Some of my students have taken high school theater and turned it into their careers with success in major films and television.”
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FEB. 27 - MARCH 27, 2017
NEISD continues from pg. 01
School funding remains a major issue by EDMOND ORTIZ
U
ncertainty over state legislative actions and a slight drop in student enrollment are on the minds of the North East Independent School District’s top administrators.
Superintendent Brian Gottardy addressed these and other issues during one of his periodic coffee socials with employees and residents, Feb. 8 at Madison High School. This is the second year Gottardy has devoted time for early-morning visits to NEISD high schools to
North East Independent School District Superintendent Brian Gottardy addresses district staff, school board President Shannon Grona (far right) and residents Feb. 8 at Madison High School. Photo by Edmond Ortiz
discuss district-related topics. The superintendent said district rolls stood at about 67,500 in early February. In fall 2015, NEISD’s student body surpassed more than 67,800 schoolchildren. “We have some challenges with our continued enrollment growth,” Gottardy
said. Partly due, he added, to the increasing number of education-delivery methods. “There’s an awful lot more choices for parents,” he said, referring to charter, private and online schools, plus home schooling. Gottardy emphasized teaching
shouldn’t only consist of on-campus lessons, homework and tests; students must learn to be community leaders and contributors to society. “We have to do a great job with educating our kids inside the classroom, as well as giving them a 360-degree experience outside the classroom,” he said. Resident Rose Pape, who has been involved in NEISD education, commended Gottardy’s sentiment for pupils, teachers and parents all having a role in a student’s well-rounded learning. “Some people think, ‘All I have to do is go into the classroom and teach children XYZ concepts’ — it’s not that way anymore,” she said. Mostly state Republican lawmakers have been showing support for boosting charter and private schools, with the Texas Senate considering legislation for funding education savings accounts and tax-credit scholarships. Proponents believe this approach
NEISD continues on pg. 15
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LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM NEISD continues from pg. 14 would help give parents and their children more primary educational opportunities beyond those limited by ZIP code. Critics counter it is just another voucher program, and an attack on public education. When Gottardy learns of NEISD parents trying to decide whether public education is best, he warns folks against thinking, “The grass is greener on the other side.” “I listen to (the parent) on why they’re pulling their kid out of one of our schools, then I caution them on what they’re hearing about any charter school that they’re going to — to do their homework,” he said. Gottardy agrees charter schools, and other nontraditional educational methods, might benefit some children, but again, encourages parents to consider “the big picture” before making a change. “The proof is in the pudding,” he added about performances in such educational settings. The struggle for adequate public school financing remains a big NEISD hurdle. Last spring, the state Supreme Court ruled the current allocation process — while flawed — is constitutional. Since 2011, NEISD has lost a total of $150 million in propertytax revenue under the state’s existing recapture system. “If you’d take that kind of hit on your paycheck, percentage-wise, it’d be a major impact on you and your family,” Gottardy told his audience. Despite the school-finance controversy, NEISD provides
p m a C p U o Time t
quality classroom education and extracurricular opportunities with existing resources, Gottardy said. “I believe not only are we responsible to you for math, science, English and history, but I believe in order to raise future citizens … it is our responsibility to build leadership, collaboration and team-building skills,” he added. Gottardy expressed concerns with state and federal approaches to public education, criticizing Texas’ new A-F letter grades for rating campuses. In December, the Texas Education Agency released preliminary results in four criteria: student achievement, student progress, closing performance gaps and postsecondary readiness. NEISD received a B, B, C and D, respectively. Gottardy said absenteeism and dropout rates, counted in this system, should be addressed by both families and the affected school. State officials said the release is part of a trial run before it takes effect in 2018. The method also counts State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness test performances. “We believe it’s very unfair to give a school a label for a test that was taken on one day, then to say that school gets a C, D or F when we know there are so many great things are occurring at every school in our district,” he said. Regarding the voter-approved 2015 district bond, NEISD has begun construction contracts on initial undertakings, and expects to award more than $120 million in bond work this year concerning upgrades. “Good news is, right now, we’re on schedule on every project and under budget,” Gottardy added.
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16
FEB. 27 - MARCH 27, 2017
LIGHT continues from pg. 01
Motorists say traffic easier and safer by BAIN SERNA
N
ew stoplights are in the spotlight now that the city has installed traffic signals funded by a property owners association. The unique partnership aims at reducing congestion at Arrow Hill Street and Stone Oak Parkway.
The new stoplights at Arrow Hill Street and Stone Oak Parkway, which replaces a four-way stop, is receiving praise from many motorists. They say it has cut down on traffic congestion. Photos by Collette Orquiz
The lights replace stop signs residents and businesses said slowed the flow of traffic, and increased hazards when vehicles rushed through or didn’t completely pause. Last year, a one-of-a-kind collaboration developed when San Antonio approved
a $300,000 donation from the Stone Oak Property Owners Association for transportation infrastructure improvements and traffic signals at the intersection. City Council OK’d the payment June 2; construction recently finished. District 9 Councilman Joe Krier once said the money paid by the
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association to the city, instead of San Antonio taxpayers footing the bill, is “absolutely the finest demonstration of community self-help I’ve seen.” Already, area drivers and pedestrians say the lights makes a difference. “People now wait because the traffic light now makes them wait,” said an employee of Coronado at Stone Oak, a rehabilitation-care facility bordering the intersection. The worker asked not to be named. “Trying to get out of here was very difficult because people just kept on driving even though there was a stop sign there. They would do the ‘California roll’ and really wouldn’t come to a complete stop. This light has helped tremendously and made it safer.” Over the last several years, the POA received numerous complaints about the corner. In 2016, San Antonio Police Department traffic officers were posted at the four-way stop to test if alternatives such as a signal light would work, said POA officials. A call for action initiated when the association’s board organized a Community Projects Committee to evaluate Stone Oak improvements. One recommendation was the replacement of stop signs at the intersection. The group then met with San Antonio officials to discuss the feasibility of such an endeavor. The city conducted a traffic study and offered to “design and build a stoplight, obtain all necessary approvals, and perform all project-management duties, as well as future maintenance” while the POA provided the money, officials said. “As a result of strategic savings and close
financial supervision over the years, the POA was able to provide the funding to improve the traffic flow at the Stone Oak Parkway and Arrow Hill intersection,” said Meg Lorente, the association’s property manager. “Work began mid-October 2016, and was completed by mid-January 2017. The city will refund any unused funds within the next couple of months.” Motorists are praising the lights. “As the light has become operational, we have had additional positive feedback, and hope the community realizes they were all a part of ensuring this convenience for everyone,” Lorente added. The signals are welcome change for many, though other traffic worries still exist. “I do have some concerns that some motorists drive too fast through the light when it’s green and yellow, though I do think the new light is a good thing for the community,” said David Silvas, a nearby resident. “People need to watch their speed.” Silvas said the new signals need synchronization with the other lights along Stone Oak Parkway to curb congestion during weekday-morning rush hours. “Overall it’s gotten much better, especially in the afternoon, but sometimes it can still get backed up in the mornings,” Silvas said. Others signal an appreciation for the new lights. “It used to be really bad traffic before this light,” said Carren Bell, a frequent visitor to Coronado at Stone Oak. “It flows much better now and has improved safety. The traffic at that intersection is just safer and easier to deal with.”
LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM SERVICE continues from pg. 01
Growth brings challenges by BAIN SERNA
H
aving just celebrated a 50th anniversary, BexarBulverde Volunteer Fire Department personnel say they remain committed as ever to serving the once-rural area, now booming with residential and commercial expansion.
The 110-member unit observed the milestone last December, with firefighters noting the outfit has matured since its inception as a small fire station on Borgfeld Road in 1966. Today, volunteers cover a 40-square-mile service area north of Loop 1604 where San Antonio’s city limits end. “We’ve persevered through all the changes,” Chief Jerry Bialick said. “We’ve come from humble beginnings. It has just grown and grown out here and this department has continued to evolve through all these changes.” Over five decades, as the quiet Hill Country corridor along U.S. 281 sprouted subdivisions and shopping centers, BBVFD transformed from volunteers working out of pickups to housing in two modern stations, including the main firehouse at 23103 Bulverde Road. Another one is coming with an April groundbreaking on Golf Canyon Road, between Wilderness Oak Road and Overlook Parkway. In addition, voters in 2003 created Bexar County Emergency Services District No. 3, a taxing entity to help fund BBVFD, which previously relied on donations and a small budget to keep going. In recent developments, the fire department ordered two fire engines at a total cost of about $2.4 million, allocating another $150,000 to ensure the rigs sport the latest equipment. BBVFD purchased a $170,000 brush truck, too. A new training building also is being added to the main fire station; the estimated expense is $200,000. “I’m big on our mission statement,” Bialick said. “All this
17
new equipment is to prepare us for the change in what we’re facing.” BBVFD does more than fight fires, respond to medical calls and work wrecks. “Our mission goes well beyond just emergency response,” the chief said. “It’s also about education. If we can prevent an emergency from happening, that’s the best. We will continue to grow our presence in the community by being there to help them understand the dangers and risks, and ways to prevent that.” BBVFD is also looking to hire fulltime firefighters and staff, while still maintaining volunteers among the ranks. Another department hallmark is the recent achievement of an Insurance Services Office rating of 2, which puts BBVFD in the top 1.8 percent of all fire departments nationwide ranked by the ISO — about 48,000. Only an ISO rating of 1 (from1-10) is better. The New Jersey company tracks property and casualty risks. The positive ranking is based on the department’s firefighting and fire-prevention capabilities, and can possibly lower insurance rates for homeowners and businesses in the service area, officials said. “We get such great support from the taxpayers,” Bialick said. “We’re moving toward hiring full-time firefighters and paid staff. We’ve done that already in a limited way, but we’re moving toward full-time firefighters.” As the department commemorates its golden anniversary, a younger generation of firefighters is embracing the challenges. “I love that everyone here is like family,” said Katie Langford, a 24-year-old firefighter with the department three years. “Volunteering has a different element to it,” she said. We keep expanding, and our community still stays so involved with us. We do a lot of PR events in area schools and things like that. So even though this area is expanding, it all still feels very connected. This community is still very involved with us as much as we are with them.” Stephen Fischnar, a 23-year-old volunteer firefighter, said the volume of calls he and his colleagues answer gives them a wealth of experience. “As soon as I became a volunteer firefighter, I understood why some people devoted their time to this for no pay,” noted the two-year BBVFD member. “I love it here. I’ve made some great friends.”
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18
FEB. 27 - MARCH 27, 2017
BUY LOCAL Learn more about newest purveyors of goods and services in your area
Rodry Liquor wants to toast customers with good deals by KIMBERLY RIVERA
E
asily accessible off westbound Loop 1604, Rodry Liquor at 18720 Stone Oak Parkway, Suite 150, is billed as a “boutique-style” liquor store.
Originating from Odessa, this local shop debuted this winter. After 18 years as a Budweiser employee, Saul Paredes took over a friend’s alcoholic-beverage business. Nearly a decade later, he and his wife, Martha, left West Texas for San Antonio.
The store moniker is a mash-up of their granddaughters’ names, Roxy and Audry. The Paredes said the philosophy behind Rodry Liquor is to lower costs for customers. The pair also wanted to create a store with an intimate feel. “Different people like different things, so you get to know what people like,” said Saul Paredes, who wants patrons’ suggestions on what he stocks. “I’ve been in this business so long, but I don’t get to try everything. It’s nice when you talk to (folks) and know what they like about a specific alcohol, or a specific wine,” he added. All 1,800-plus bottles are
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Rodry Liquor aims to offer customers a wide selection at low prices, the owner said. Photos by Collette Orquiz
displayed on custom oak shelves. While the local favorite is bourbon, Rodry Liquor offers various brews and spirits including craft beers, wines and party-favor shots. Gift baskets are offered yearround for holidays and special occasions with optional delivery. There are weekday specials and daily 10 percent military discounts available. Hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
DIFFERENT PEOPLE LIKE DIFFERENT THINGS. SAUL PAREDES, OWNER
RODRY LIQUOR 18720 Stone Oak Parkway, Suite 150 For more, call 616-4264 or visit www.rodryliquor.com
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LOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM
Don’t be left out in the rain.
EAT LOCAL Learn about the newest neighborhood places for breakfast, lunch, dinner or drinks
Lovers of pies will find plenty of toppings at MOD Pizza without paying anything extra, according to a spokeswoman. One eatery has opened in Stone Oak and a second is now up and running on De Zavala Road. More in the franchise are coming to San Antonio. Photos by Collette Orquiz
Keeping it modern at MOD Pizza by COLLETTE ORQUIZ
M
OD Pizza, a new artisan-style Stone Oak pizzeria, emphasizes fresh ingredients and modern customer service – as the name implies.
“Who doesn’t love pizza? But, what is great about MOD is that you can get exactly what you want – and for no extra charge,” said marketing manager Charlotte Wayte. The restaurant opened in October at 22026 U.S. 281 North, Suite 105. A second debuted two months later at 5230 De Zavala Road, Suite 234, in Fiesta Trails, with two other local franchises on the way. In front of patrons, individualized, custom-made pies are assembled with freshly pressed dough, signature sauces and a choice of 30-plus toppings. The eatery boasts ready-in-minutes pizzas from 800-degree ovens.
19130 STONE OAK PKWY SAN ANTONIO, TX 78258
Salads, hand-tossed to order, are available, too. “Food authenticity is a huge deal with us – where it comes from, how it’s prepared – and, of course, how it tastes. From hand-pressing our dough daily, to roasting our own vegetables, to banning the bad stuff – we’ve made it a priority to keep our food true,” Wayte said. According to online accounts, MOD stands for “Made on Demand” and is part of the company’s philosophy to pile on the ingredients at no extra price. In 2008, Scott Svenson and his wife, Ally, founded MOD Pizza in Seattle. They built and sold two other retail brands, Seattle Coffee Co. in London, which Starbucks eventually bought, and Carluccio’s, an Italian-deli concept also in the United Kingdom. Hours are 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
MOD PIZZA 22026 U.S. 281 North, Suite 105 For more, call 318-3338 or visit modpizza.com
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BMWofSanAntonio.com | 877-447-7443 | 8434 Airport Blvd.
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4204 GARDENDALE STE. 201 SAN ANTONIO, TX 78229
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