www.salocallowdown.com
INSIDE
Medical guide
pg.13 Getting you the up-to-date information about the latest trends in health care
Converse
Vol. 1, Issue 9
What's
INSIDE your community
local commentary pg. 03 SUSAN YERKES
live oak
COMMUNITY NEWS
universal city
windcrest
End in sight
for I-35 construction Project on schedule to wrap before summer
by Will Wright
pg. 10 MPO narrowing roads wish lists
S
CHERTZ – Finally, there’s an end in sight for Interstate 35 construction across the Metrocom.
Forums focus on short-term, longrange regional transportation
The $24 million expansion project to add main lanes, flyovers and revisions to entrance and exit ramps on the roadway, extending from Judson Road in San Antonio to FM 3009 in Schertz, is on schedule to wrap before summer,
pg. 05 JISD boosts science, math courses for middle schoolers
Students to get earlier intros thanks to academy
EAT
pg. 17 Oak Valley Vineyards Restaurant diners treated to Hill Country vistas
fantastic deals
coupons INSIDE Discover the city through LOCAL deals from restaurants, retailers and services in your community, and save money while you do it! pg. 19
03/2014
In-N-Out to grill in Windcrest pg. 06 City officials heralding expansion into San Antonio area
Texas Department of Transportation spokesman Josh Donat said. “We’re on pace to be done before the end of the school year, which is what we’ve always said,” he said. “We’re at the point to where we can say that we’re weeks from being done.” Donat believes the project will be finished in 12 weeks, barring bad weather and unforeseen problems. The construction has experienced several highs and lows since launching in October 2012. Complications included design issues, inclement weather and
TxDOT continues on pg. 08
Hear Your Loved Ones!
Don’t let hearing loss stop you from communicating with the ones you love
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march 2014
From the editor wwright@salocallowdown.com
President Harold J. Lees Publisher Gregg Rosenfield Assoc. Publisher Rick Upton
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Editorial Executive Editor Thomas Edwards Managing Editor Will Wright News Staff Collette Orquiz Contributing Writers Ron Aaron Eisenberg, J.E. Jordan, Eric Moreno, Travis E. Poling, Arthur Schechter, Eric J. Weilbacher and Susan Yerkes ART Creative Director Richard Fisher Jr. Contributing Photographers Rick Cortez and Joshua Michael Advertising Advertising Director Shelly Talamantez Account Managers Dawn Radick and Joe Rieras Controller Gerard "Jerry" Sulaica READER SERVICE Mailing Address 4204 Gardendale Ste. 201 SA, TX 78229 Fax Phone (210) 338.8842 (210) 616.9677 Advertising Inquiries rupton@salocallowdown.com Story Ideas tips@salocallowdown.com Website www.salocallowdown.com
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Send us events, comments
W
e recently received a query from a reader asking about the coverage of area high school teams in LOCAL Community News. Given the recent successes of the Wagner High School girls basketball team and the Judson and Clemens boys basketball teams – all of which advanced to state tournaments in Austin – that request comes as no surprise. As we said when we introduced LOCAL to our communities last summer, our focus centers on current events that shape the future. Business development, transportation infrastructure, city and county government decisions – they all fit into that mold. However, we will always keep an eye out for stories that have an impact on the community, including the successes of youth sports teams. In my years as a sportswriter and news reporter and editor, I’ve seen how participation in athletics and other extracurricular school activities have positively shaped the lives of the students I’ve covered. Again, as I said before, we believe there is no story idea out there that might seem too small or inconsequential when it comes to our readers. Now that spring is here, we’ll be welcoming information on more events, many of which will bind residents and bolster spirits in each of the communities we cover. Notices of local youth sports activities fit into that category, as well as those for other community gatherings across the area. Some of those might be posted on various websites, but we’d also prefer to hear from you directly. Send us your story ideas, new business openings, event notices and other thoughts to tips@salocallowdown. com or email me directly at the address below. After all, that’s why we’re here.
Will Wright Managing Editor facebook.com/salocalcommunitynews
3
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local commentary
Why Cisneros Airport failed to fly by susan yerkes
W
hat’s in a name? Sometimes, more than you bargained for. That’s the lesson folks at the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce learned when they launched a short-lived campaign to rename San Antonio International Airport for former Mayor Henry Cisneros. The concept failed to take wing. Within a week, the plan was put “on hold.” For now, that is a wise move. Although many supported the idea after Hispanic Chamber Chairwoman Patricia Stout announced the campaign to rename the airport at the group’s annual gala, a chorus of Cisneros-bashers leapt
into the fray on talk radio and myriad blogs, threatening to create a controversy. And then the prospective honoree himself put the kibosh on the plan. “I don’t want to draw the community into further contentiousness,” Cisneros wrote in a thanks-but-no-thanks letter to Chamber leaders, citing his ongoing involvement with various city projects (including airport expansion) and national efforts to pass immigration reform. He also believes that landmarks should bear the monikers of people who have died. But the Lila Cockrell Theater, Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center, Nelson Wolff Municipal Stadium, Cyndi Taylor Krier Juvenile Correctional Treatment Center, Howard Peak Greenway Trails System, Phil Hardberger Park and Paul Elizondo Tower indicate San Antonio civic leaders like to honor their peers while they’re still standing. In fact, some folks first floated the Cisneros Airport idea decades ago. “A group of us who volunteered for Henry’s campaigns back when he was mayor talked about naming the airport for him way back then,” one longtime Cisneros supporter told me when the flak
about the recent initiative started to fly. Aside from the controversy it might generate, the airport-naming idea also has practical drawbacks in terms of civic strategy. On the one hand, there are plenty of airports named for people, including New York’s LaGuardia and JFK, D.C.’s Reagan National, California’s celebrity cluster (John Wayne and Bob Hope airports), New Orleans’ Louis Armstrong Airport, and Houston’s William P. Hobby Airport and Bush Intercontinental. But while San Antonio’s airport has expanded impressively in recent years, this city is still, alas, not one of the country’s high-profile “hub” destinations. It’s a connector airport, lacking the passenger traffic that makes the big hubs household names. “With an airport our size, people from other places may not associate a person’s name with the city. I’m all for naming something in town for Henry, but we need to keep our city’s name out there on the airport,” one longtime aviation industry leader told me. If not the airport, what would be an apt edifice to bear Cisneros’ name? The idea is not going away. And despite the recent announcement
of a Henry Cisneros Center for New Americans on the West Side, the push to name another, larger civic venue for Cisneros is likely to continue. “We think Henry is very deserving. Remember too, that he has served as our Hispanic Chamber chair. I believe it is time he is recognized like other mayors and county leaders,” Stout told me. “We respect Henry’s wishes, and we are putting this on hold,” added Chamber CEO Ramiro Cavazos. “But we will still move forward, and work with other community leaders, to do something.” The downtown San Antonio Public Library, famously designed by brilliant Mexican architect Ricardo Legorreta, has come up several times as a place to name in Cisneros’ honor. The Alamodome seems like a good fit to me, since it was one of Cisneros’ major initiatives. Bottom line: San Antonio has a lot of venues. Somewhere out there, one is waiting for Cisneros’ name. Now it’s your turn, readers. What do you think? Email comments to syerkes@ salocallowdown.com
Proud to be the sponsor of the Girl Scouts Financial Literacy Initiative
We care because we know that the Girl Scout Cookie Rally is the perfect opportunity for these girls to learn money skills. For the fourth year, Wells Fargo is the sponsor of the Girl Scouts Financial Literacy Initiative, a program that teaches girls how to set goals and manage money. In addition to being a sponsor, Wells Fargo’s Central Texas team members volunteer their time to teach more than 10,000 Girl Scouts about savings, credit, and other financial skills using the Hands on Banking® program. Do business with a bank that shares your values, and values you. Stop by your nearest Wells Fargo location today or visit wellsfargo.com to learn more. Pictured here is Wells Fargo’s Jack the Dog, and Jennifer Moriarty, Wells Fargo Vice President Community Development, board member with Girl Scouts of Southwest Texas, and Girl Scout Troop 3005.
about how many cookies they sell wellsfargo.com © 2014 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC. ECG-1176716
4
march 2014
LOCAL LOWDOWN Take a quick look at what’s new in the community from opening and closings to news tidbits.
Open and Opening Soon
IN OTHER NEWS CAMPBELL, WOLFF WIN PRIMARIES –
WOOD CREEK VAPORY, 8021 FM 78,
Suite 119 in the Ventura Plaza-Valero Center in Converse, offers electroniccigarette items and accessories. Open 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday. For more, call 354-7958 or visit www. woodcreekvapory.com or WoodCreekVapory/ Facebook. (See story, page 16)
OAK VALLEY VINEYARDS RESTAURANT, 27315 S. FM 3009 in Garden Ridge, offers dining, a wedding venue, special events with indoor and outdoor seating, and a Sunday brunch from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Open 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. For more, call 830-980-8033 or visit www.oakvalleyvineyardsrestaurant. com or OakValleyVineyards/ Facebook. (See story, page 17)
TEXAN URGENT CARE, 902 Kitty Hawk Road, Suite 110 in Universal City, offers convenient health care services. Open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. For more, call 6590889 or visit www.texanurgentcare.com. CHRIST CHURCH SAN ANTONIO, 902 Kitty
Metrocom voters went to the polls March 4 to choose nominees for several local offices. Incumbent Dr. Donna Campbell of New Braunfels brushed back challenges by Elisa Chan and Mike Novak to win the outright Republican nod for state Senate District 25, avoiding a May 27 runoff. Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff did the same in his bid to retain his position, as he easily bested Precinct 4 Commissioner Tommy Adkisson for the Democratic nomination. Wolff will face Carlton Soules, who defeated Gerald Ponce in the GOP primary. Debra Guerrero and Tommy Calvert are headed for a runoff for the Democratic nomination to succeed Adkisson as Precinct 4 commissioner. The winner will face either Kirby Mayor Tim Wilson or Windcrest Mayor Alan Baxter, who are headed for a runoff for the GOP nomination. In Guadalupe County, Precinct 2 Commissioner Kyle Kutscher defeated incumbent County Judge Larry Jones in the Republican primary. Because no Democratic candidates filed for the primary, Kutscher is unopposed in November’s general election. Also, Republicans Kevin “Bubba” Kunde and Judy Cope are headed for a runoff for Precinct 4 county commissioner. The winner will also be unopposed in November.
LOOP 1604 EXPANSION BREAKS GROUND – Officials with the Texas Department of
Hawk Road, Suites 170-429 in Universal City, features worship and community services for San Antonio’s northeast metropolitan area. Business hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday; worship services are held at 5 p.m. Sundays at St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church, 810 Kitty Hawk Road. For more, call 557-2842 or visit www.christchurchsa.com or ChristChurchSanAntonio/Facebook.
Transportation, Converse and Bexar County broke ground on the Loop 1604 expansion project in February. Construction, slated to take 18 months to complete, will expand the loop from a two-lane road into a four-lane divided highway between Interstate 10 and Lower Seguin Road, similar to TxDOT’s 2011 expansion from FM 78 to Lower Seguin Road.
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BUSINESSES SET FOR OLD LIVE OAK CIVIC CENTER SITE – The Live Oak Planning and
Zoning Commission in February approved platting for five lots at the site of the city’s old civic center, which was demolished in January. REATA Real Estate Services, which now owns the property at 8101 Pat Booker Road, recently announced it has signed deals with Burger King, McAlister’s Deli, Starbucks and 54th Street Grill/Bar for the site, which will also house an ATM location for Randolph Brooks Federal Credit Union. Live Oak Assistant City Manager Scott Wayman said the city is still working out a plan to construct a new hotel and convention center at another location.
METROCOM COACHING CAROUSEL – Four
area high school football coaches were named to new positions during February and early March. Longtime Madison High School football coach Jim Streety, the Mavericks head coach for 23 years, retired from that position to become New Braunfels Independent School District’s new athletic director. As the longest tenured coach in North East Independent School District history, Streety posted a 343-131-3 overall record during his 40-year career and was 194-86-2 at Madison, which he led to the Class 5A Division I state semifinals last season. He ranks fourth alltime in victories among Texas high school football coaches. Accompanying Streety to New Braunfels is Madison assistant head football coach and offensive coordinator Glenn Mangold, who took over as New Braunfels High School’s head coach on Feb. 24. Mangold, who spent six years at Madison, was previously an assistant head coach and offensive coordinator at Judson High School. On March 3, NEISD trustees selected Judson coach Mark Smith to succeed Streety at Madison. Smith, was 19-6 in two seasons leading the Rockets, who bowed to the Mavericks in the Class 5A Division I regional championship game last December. Named to succeed Smith on an interim basis was Sean McAuliffe, the Rockets’ defensive coordinator.
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GARDEN RIDGE POTTERY MOVES – Garden Ridge Pottery’s inaugural store has now closed its doors at FM 3009 and Interstate 35 in Schertz, where it opened in 1979 to serve as the flagship for the chain of home décor stores that has expanded to 65 locations in 20 states. It moved into a new location March 10 at Gateway Plaza, located next to Burlington Coat Factory at 7613 N.E. Loop 1604 in Live Oak. RACKSPACE CEO STEPS ASIDE – Lanham
Napier, CEO of Rackspace Hosting, stepped down from his position on Feb. 10. Napier, who announced his retirement, will be replaced by Rackspace co-founder and board chairman Graham Weston, who will serve in the interim while the company searches for a new CEO. Rackspace said Napier would remain a consultant for the next several months. “It has been a privilege to be part of Rackspace for the past 14 years,” Napier said in a statement released by the company. “My decision to step down as CEO was a difficult one, but it’s the right choice for me and for the company.” Bloomberg.com reported Rackspace lost almost half its market value during the past year, as it faced competition from Amazon Web Services, Microsoft and Google for its cloud-computing services.
U.S. PARALYMPIC HOCKEY TEAM IN SOCHI – The U.S. Paralympic Sled Hockey team
opened competition in Sochi, Russia, on March 8 and hoped to compete in the gold-medal game there on March 15. The team, led by local player Josh Sweeney, has been featured during segments on CBS’ “Sunday Morning” and morning shows on Feb. 23-24 and in a PBS documentary that premiered Feb. 24. Sweeney, a forward, along with defenseman Rico Roman and goaltender Jen Yung Lee of the San Antonio Rampage Sled Ice Hockey Team, are competing for Team USA. They are among several veterans who have benefited from the many programs offered through San Antonio-based Operation Comfort, which comes to the aid of injured servicemen.
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Stem continues from pg. 01
Gateway elective to emphasize design, robotics disciplines by Eric J. Weilbacher
C
ONVERSE –– Judson Middle School is about to give a 21st-century boost to science, math and tech courses, which will launch with next year’s sixth-grade students.
Science, Technology, Engineering and Math Academies, or STEM for short, are popping up mostly in U.S. high schools. Although middle school STEM academies are less common, Judson Independent School District officials are crafting a different approach for their new program. “Students will experience using advanced software and tools as those used by the world’s leading companies; students learn how to apply math, science, technology, and engineering to their everyday lives,” said Dianne Treviño, JISD STEM Academy director. The district has long-range goals for the program over the next several years to bolster students’ technical and scientific know-how for the jobs of the future. “We are taking a very aggressive approach to STEM,” Trevino said. “Much of the drive is at the high school level. We see a need to start as early as possible. It’s very rare that you see any investment in middle school (for STEM education).” In January, the district hosted several informational sessions at its middle schools. Treviño said she visited the district’s elementary campuses to stir interest among fifth-graders, as well as inform parents about the program. Educators said they expect to welcome about 125 incoming sixth-graders into the curriculum, initially to be housed on the top floor at Judson Middle School. They project the program will eventually expand to seventh and eighth grades. Functioning as a “school within a school,” Treviño said STEM Academy courses are very interdisciplinary, with teaching heavily focused on project-based learning. Students will enroll in pre-Advanced Placement courses in the four core subject areas, along with a pre-engineering elective titled “Gateway to STEM.”
Judson’s program was proposed about three years ago, after district officials and local business representatives discussed ways the district could help create a stronger workforce through education. “We felt that starting as early as middle school would be the best approach,” Treviño said, noting that other districts in San Antonio have STEM programs. The new STEM Academy serves as another option for students, who now must shape their graduation plans by the end of their freshman year of high school. House Bill 5, signed into law in 2013 by Gov. Rick Perry, creates a new graduation plan for all incoming freshmen, beginning with the 2014-15 school year. Components include a basic plan of 22 credits, with an additional endorsement of 26 credits earned in STEM, Business and Industry, Arts and Humanities, Public Services, and Multidisciplinary Studies. Endorsement plans were created to better prepare graduating students for workplace performance or postsecondary education. In recent months, Texas school districts have formulated plans in advance of the State Board of Education’s adoption of standards for implementing HB 5, which was completed in January. According to the Texas Education Agency, there are 39 campuses operating STEM Academies for grades six through 12, but only one middle school STEM program in the San Antonio area. JISD officials said they hope to extend the STEM program into the high schools. “At this time we are looking at expanding it to the high school. We feel like this is the foundational level,” said JISD spokesman Steve Linscomb, who added district leaders see the program as “extremely important.” “We are planning a number of initiatives to get kids involved in STEM,” he said. Treviño suggested STEM students might feed into the Judson Early College Academy, where they could earn associate’s degrees while simultaneously completing their high school diplomas. However, JECA has its own demanding acceptance qualifications. “We haven’t decided where our best fit would be,” she said. The core design of JISD’s STEM Academy lies in the required elective, Gateway to STEM. Treviño said Gateway will be divided into eight independent units and taught over several years, in conjunction with the STEM program’s rigorous core curriculum. The learning aspects of the program will vary. For example, a gazebo in
Stem continues on pg. 08
Northeast Lakeview College Welcomes Dr. Craig T. Follins It is with great excitement that I join the Northeast Lakeview College family. Dr. Craig Follins began his post as President of Northeast Lakeview College on March 24 and is no stranger to education or to Texas. He brings 20 years of experience in education to Northeast Lakeview College. His previous stint as an educator in TX included teaching sociology as an adjunct for Lone Star College-Kingwood Campus and leadership positions at the Houston Community Colleges and Victoria College. Originally from New York City, he also held numerous other leadership positions at community colleges across the county. He says he has always wanted to “come back to Texas” and is eager to begin his new journey. Building on the Basics Northeast Lakeview College has good “roots” with room for growth and Follins expresses his delight in having the ability to build on these basics and transition the institution into its next phase. His experience at both small and large colleges bring new opportunities to the growing Northeast Lakeview College campus and to the communities that we serve, says Sabrina Hammel, NLC faculty senate president. Follins wants to capitalize on Northeast Lakeview College’s current strengths and discover new opportunities that will lead the institution into its next successes. I want to stay true to the community college mission. And serving students is what we do. Students First Northeast Lakeview College prides itself in putting students first and its ultimate goal is to see every student succeed and realize their educational goals. Follins says he is passionate about what he does and understands that every student should have the opportunity for a chance at success. As the center of educational opportunities, he realizes the importance of community colleges to provide open access, yet a meaningful educational experience to all members of the community. Northeast Lakeview College fulfills this need by providing opportunities for success through a studentfocused environment. Looking Ahead His extensive experience in workforce development and continuing education programming will allow Northeast Lakeview College to find avenues to develop with the growing community that the college serves and respond to local business needs. Additionally, by learning and utilizing best practices from higher education institutions, Northeast Lakeview College can better respond to the new generations of students and provide them with a high quality education in a digital and dynamic environment. I am looking forward to the many opportunities the community and college has to offer Northeast Lakeview College is the fifth and newest institution of the Alamo Colleges. Officially established in 2007, Northeast Lakeview College is located in Universal City, TX and serves 6,000 students. - Northeast Lakeview College Public Relations Department www.alamo.edu/nlc
6
march 2014
Happening LOCAL
Plan your month with our calendar of upcoming events in the community. UC LIBRARY EVENTS Universal City Public Library, 100 Northview Drive, has several events on tap. For more, call 659-7048. Book Club for Adults will meet at 6:30 p.m. March 19 and April 16. A list of reading selections can be found at www.UniversalCityTexas. com/BookClub. The library reserves seven copies of each book for club members, distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis. Also during March, the library is collecting shoes for orphans and families in Burkina Faso, Africa, as part of the Shoes For Love campaign. Any shoes in any condition, with or without a matching partner, will be collected through March 28. The library is seeking donations of large bins as well as storage facilities during the collection. For more, call Toni Davenport at the library. A free seminar, “Emailing Help,” about the basics of setting up email accounts and sending emails, is 10-11 a.m. April 12 and April 19. Participants must be 13 or older, have a valid Universal City Public Library card and know how to use a computer mouse. Call or stop by the library to register. “Basic Internet Use,” a free seminar on navigating the Internet, is 10-11 a.m. April 19. Adults must accompany children under 12. Contact the library for registration details. A free afternoon movie begins at noon April 12. Bring a lunch or a snack; call the library to find out which movie will be featured. Senior Social Days are 2-4 p.m. each Monday. Each Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Friends of the Universal City Library host a used-book sale at their bookstore behind the library.
march/ april
march/ april
RANDOLPH METROCOM EVENTS The Randolph
Metrocom Chamber of Commerce has scheduled several events.
OUR GUIDE TO YOUR MONTH
For more, call 658-8322 or visit www. metrocomchamber.org.The Chamber’s March luncheon is 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 11 at Blue Bonnet Palace, 17630 Lookout Road in Selma. The March Lunch-N-Learn event is 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 20 at Wayland Baptist University, 11550 Interstate 35 North in San Antonio. The March Mixer is 6-8 p.m. March 27 at the Lion and the Rose British Restaurant and Pub, 8211 Agora Parkway, Suite 112, in Selma. The Chamber is hosting the American Legion Post 667 Boys State Golf Tourney, a fundraiser to send youths to the Boys State program at the University of Texas this spring, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 6 at Northcliffe Golf Course, 178 I-35 North in Selma. There is a $60 entry fee. For more, call Joe Schaefer at 945-0663.
through march
CONVERSE LIBRARY CHILDREN’S STORY TIMES
These free events for toddlers are held 10:30-11:30 a.m. Wednesdays at the Converse Public Library, 601 S. Seguin St. Parents are urged to arrive on time; children must be supervised. For more, call 659-4160.
through march
LIVE OAK POLICE ACADEMY ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS
The Live Oak Police Department is accepting applications for its 2014 Citizens Police Academy, which begins March 27. The 12-week course gives residents the opportunity to learn about law-enforcement efforts in the community. Meetings are 7 p.m. on Thursdays. Applications are available at the Live Oak Justice Center, 8022 Shin Oak Drive and at www.liveaotx.net. For more, call 945-1700.
h a p p e ning k e y
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In-N-Out continues from pg. 01
FOOD
New eatery could turn up heat on Whataburger
CANCER SUPPORT TEAM
New Life Baptist Church of Converse, 101 North St., will host its monthly Cancer Support Team meeting at 7 p.m. For more, call 658-1972.
Mar
22
by J.E. Jordan
CONVERSE GREEN DAY SLATED The Converse
W
INDCREST – A new Texas rivalry — on par with the Longhorns vs. the Aggies — may be cooking in Windcrest, where California-based In-N-Out Burger’s Double-Double will duel against a state favorite, Whataburger’s Double Meat Cheeseburger.
Economic Development Corp. will co-sponsor the third annual Converse Goes Green Day from noon to 4 p.m. at Converse City Hall, 405 S. Seguin St. Build San Antonio Green will co-host the event, which helps residents save money while conserving energy, water and the environment. The Green Day will also provide information on the city’s water-rebate and stormwater programs, and programs offered though CPS Energy and the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs. Mayor Al Suarez will distribute free water aerators and shower heads while supplies last, and CPS Energy will give away a limited number of trees through its Green Shade Program. For more, call 658-5356 or visit www.converseedc.com.
Apr
8
It’s almost official: The first In-N-Out burgers in the San Antonio metropolitan area will be grilled at the site of the former Frost Bank Building on the north Interstate 35 access road and Walzem Road. Economic Development Corp. chief Robert Colunga confirmed the company’s plans in October. He said land at the site would be platted into thirds, and accompanied by a hotel and another eatery. Michael Schoenbrun, city partner with The Weitzman Group’s Cencor Realty Services in San Antonio, marketer of the property, would not confirm the proposed location. In-N-Out officials were unavailable for comment. However, Mayor Alan Baxter said Feb. 21 the final site and plan have been approved with preliminaries “98 percent done,” needing only “a couple of minor tweaks.” Demolition of the Frost Bank Building has begun. The interior is being stripped of all recyclable and reusable materials, Baxter said.
RIVER CITY BELIEVER’S FUNDRAISER River City
Believer’s Academy will host its annual fundraising gala at 7 p.m. at River City Community Church, 16765 Lookout Road. Comedian Cleto Rodriguez will perform, with proceeds benefiting River City Believer’s Academy. For more, visit www.rcbaonline.com/gala.
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In-N-Out continues on pg. 10
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march 2014
TxDOT continues from pg. 01
Highway workers finishing ramps, expanding lanes changes in construction priorities and resources. In November, work wrapped near The Forum Shopping Center, where a new Forum Parkway bridge opened to holiday shoppers. Shortly thereafter, months of detours ended with the completion of ramps linking Loop 1604 to I-35. The next focus was finishing construction around the FM 3009 intersection. The north-to-south turnaround lane opened to drivers, and after a three-week closure the northbound 3009 exit ramp reopened. That exit now features two exit lanes flowing into five frontage lanes – a turnaround lane, a left-turn only lane, an optional leftturn/forward lane, a straight lane and a right-turn only lane. All that remains at that intersection is completion of the critical south-to-north turnaround lane. “When we finish the rest of the 3009 intersection, the attention will turn
towards finishing up the other ramps throughout the project,” Donat said. Construction continues on the southbound exit ramp to Olympia Parkway, which closed March 2 so workers could remove temporary concrete barriers and complete asphalt work. The southbound exit to Olympia Parkway will close until the ramp is finished, and project supervisors anticipate it should reopen by March 28. TxDOT officials said the northbound FM 1518 exit ramp is on pace to open by April 1. Workers are widening the main lanes between Cibolo Creek Bridge and Loop 1604. The work will have an impact on traffic using access roads in both directions between FM 1518 and Forum Parkway, with paving operations at times reducing the frontage roads to a single lane. Donat said, “Crews are also working in what has been the shoulder area of the main lanes, adding the space to make room for the extra lane of traffic being added.” He noted most of the widening work should be completed by mid-March or the month’s end. “Again, we’re on pace to be done well before the end of the school year, which was our original target,” Donat said. For project updates, visit www.txdot.gov or www.txdotsanantonio.blogspot.com.
Workers are scrambling to finish entrance and exit ramps along the Interstate 35 construction zone between Schertz and San Antonio. Photo by Josh Michael
Stem continues from pg. 05
Robotics will be an integral instructional tool for classes at Judson Independent School District’s new STEM Academy for middle school students. Photo by Josh Michael
engineering the process involved. Working Judson Middle School’s courtyard in teams, they will create portfolios using will serve as a solar-panel renewableAutodesk professional-design software. energy trial classroom, motivating In the robotics course, students indoor and outdoor inspiration. will not only learn the history of Trevino said the classroom would be available to any student seeking an outdoor- automated mechanical systems and the engineering process, but also the instruction experience, as well as used in VEX Robotics platform to design and a separate venture called the “Renewable build robotic arms and toll booths. Energy Trail,” which emphasizes For enterprising students, an after-school emerging clean-energy technologies. robotics club will provide opportunities “There will also be community-service to participate in competitions and learning, having the students give back reinforce classroom applications. to our community at large,” Treviño said. “Maybe that’s water testing … anything that Treviño said the program will constantly reiterate a scientific connection to daily life is similar to what we are learning about.” and empower student enlightenment. Two instructional units awaiting “Through topics like robotics, flight the first class of sixth-graders will and space, and DNA and crime-scene be “Design and Modeling” and analysis, students find their natural “Automation and Robotics.” curiosity and imagination engaged in In the design course, students will solve instagram.com/localcommunitynews creative problem solving,” she said. problems by conceiving playgrounds and furniture, while mastering the
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DIRECTIONS TO MARANATHA From 1-35: Take 35N to 1604S Turn right at the Exxon Station and right on Lower Seguin Rd. Parking lot entrance is straight ahead. From Loop 410: Take 410 to 35N to 1604S. Turn right at the Exxon Station and right on Lower Seguin Rd. Parking lot entrance is straight ahead. From IH10/Hwy 90: Take I-H 10 to 1604. Turn North (left) on 1604 and go about 3 miles. Turn left at the Exxon Station and right on Lower Seguin Rd. Parking lot entrance is straight ahead.
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MPO continues from pg. 01
Several roadways considered for immediate improvement by Will Wright
N
EW BRAUNFELS – A second round of workshops to gauge public opinion on a long-range transportation plan gave residents a chance to chime in on projects they want incorporated for future growth.
The workshop was held by the San Antonio-Bexar County Metropolitan Planning Organization, which distributes state and federal funds for area transportation projects. Now in the second stage of a yearlong process to hone a regional blueprint, the organization is hosting six public forums in San Antonio,
march 2014
Seguin, New Braunfels and Boerne. When finished, the MPO’s longrange plan, Mobility 2040, will be a roadmap of prioritized projects and guidelines for disbursement of federal and state transportation funding, totaling more than $200 million annually. The latest workshops addressed foreseeable scenarios for the long-range plan, as well as projects considered for short-term funding under the MPO’s four-year Transportation Improvement Program. Scott Ericksen, the MPO’s senior public involvement coordinator, said the most recent meetings were not only held to consider TIP projects, but offer information on three longrange growth scenarios to fashion a Metropolitan Transportation Plan for the region, which includes Bexar, Comal and Guadalupe counties and part of Kendall County. During six forums held in late February and early March, residents considered 55 TIP projects worth $435 million and separated into five categories: Added Capacity, Bicycle/ Pedestrian, Operational, Rehabilitation
and Non-Roadway Construction. A multi-agency committee assigned technical scores for each potential project, based on criteria considering traffic volume and street capacity, crash data, construction cost and how each would fit into the region’s overall mobility plan. Each is aligned with other projects in their specific categories. Of the 55 projects, the MPO has but $55 million available to fund projects for 2015-18. Ericksen said public comments, pooled with technical scores assessed each project by the MPO’s Technical Policy Board, will result in a final-submission list to the Texas Department of Transportation by May 1. “The TIP is the first four years of the long-range plan, so we combined both into the public meetings,” Ericksen said. The TIP addresses the most urgent regional needs. There are 20 proposed Added Capacity projects – adding travel lanes to major roadways – totaling $241.7 million. “As we plan projects, one of the most important things folks can do is to be involved with these public meetings,”
TxDOT spokesman Josh Donat said. “The MPO is where a lot of the decisions happen about what we build and when. They get their priorities from the community and actual hard data. “(MPO meetings) are an opportunity for people to participate in the prioritization of the projects out of TxDOT over the next few years.” Also in the TIP are 12 proposed Operational projects – improving roadways without additional travel lanes – totaling $143 million. Plus, there are 10 proposed road Rehabilitation projects (worth $14.7 million), seven Bicycle/Pedestrian projects ($4.1 million) and five NonRoadway projects ($30.7 million). Within those five categories, there are projects in north San Antonio, Schertz, Cibolo, Selma, Universal City, New Braunfels, Seguin and other areas of Comal and Guadalupe counties, costing $123.3 million. Several of those projects scored highly on the list of Added Capacity projects. Local projects concerned most
MPO continues on pg. 12
In-N-Out continues from pg. 06 “They’re trying to be green,” he said, adding when that stage is completed, hopefully within two months, the building will be razed. “It’s amazing that they can demolish a seven-story building and rebuild quicker and with less expense than picking a new site,” said Baxter, who boasted Windcrest’s platting process as “the fastest in town.” Baxter predicted the new In-NOut site would have an economic impact on northeast San Antonio. “It’s exciting, it’s hip – it’s good news they decided to pick us,” he said. Earlier this year, it was reported In-NOut planned to build at another site, at the present TGI Friday’s location across from North Star Mall at McCullough Avenue and Loop 410, but the franchise owner was not ready to give up his lease. Originating in California in 1948, InN-Out has since spread to 293 locations across the Southwest, including several venues in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Franchises arrived there in 2011 and since have trickled down the I-35 corridor to include Round Rock, Cedar Park and Austin to create 21 Texas locations. In-N-Out will directly challenge Corpus Christi-based Whataburger, which was
founded in 1950 and dominates the state’s fresh-and-fast burger market. In-N-Out boasts its never frozen all-beef patties are specially prepared from only lean ground chuck roast. The company’s nutritional fact sheet lists four menu items – three burgers (with six variations) and fries, with 13 drink choices. Meanwhile, Whataburger’s nutritional fact sheets run five pages, and include burgers, fries, breakfast items, tacos, salads – with and without meats – chicken dishes, dessert items and drinks. The first salvo in the burger wars has already been fired. When In-N-Out opened its initial Texas location in 2011 Whataburger welcomed them by sending the new restaurant a custom-made pair of cowboy boots – in Whataburger’s signature orange. With more than 700 locations in the South and Southwest, and 150 Whataburger locations in the DallasFort Worth area alone, the Texas chain seems unfazed by the competition. In-N-Out has its share of fanatic followers, such as Raymond Palmer, assistant professor of family and community The California-based In-N-Out hamburger chain has selected Windcrest for its first San Antonio-area location. Photo by Rick Cortez
In-N-Out continues on pg. 12
Converse EDC Invites You to the
3RD Annual Converse Goes Green Day Saturday March 22nd, 12:00 - 4:00 PM Converse City Hall 405 S. Seguin (Rain Date: March 29th) Events showcasing various “green” programs available to Converse residents such as:
City of Converse water rebates and its stormwater programs CPS Energy’s CASA VERDE program for free weatherization assistance CPS Energy free internet Home Manager program Texas Dept of Housing and Community Affairs Utility Assistance program VIA Classroom on Wheels
Performances by:
Converse-based River City Gymnastics US Martial Arts Training Center in Converse A Special Thanks to our Sponsors
Converse-based arts & crafts vendors and businesses invited to participate
Free water aerators and showerheads available (while supplies last) Free trees (provided by CPS Energy) through its Green Shade Program (while supplies last)
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MPO continues from pg. 10 of the 100 people attending the Feb. 26 workshop at the New Braunfels Civic/Convention Center. Improvements to FM 306 and a north-south expansion of Loop 337 around New Braunfels – ranked first, fourth and seventh respectively among Added Capacity projects, a proposed expansion of FM 2252 (Nacogdoches Road) between Evans Road and FM 3009 ranked second. Residents were also asked for opinions to help formulate the region’s long-range plan, the MTP. Projections by MPO indicate that from 2010 to 2040, the population will increase by 154 percent in Guadalupe County, 140 percent in Comal County and 89 percent in Kendall County. Jobs in Comal and Guadalupe counties are slated to rise by 178 percent and 154 percent, respectively. The prediction calls for 1.5 million more people to live, play and work in the area, and is why
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residents were asked to choose among three future scenarios – based on a series of growth assumptions – best accommodating traffic in the region. “We want to develop a regional vision for the future for the fourcounty study area, to see how we’ll make transportation investments through the year 2040,” Linda Vela, MPO consultant project manager, said about the future plan, which will include all modes of transportation – pedestrian, bicycle and vehicle. When all input is collected and combined, the MPO’s Transportation Policy Board, serving as the organization’s board of directors including regional elected officials and representatives, will finalize Mobility 2040 by December. “We need to figure out where an additional 1.5 million people will fit into which area, and we’re asking people to express a format in which they prefer to see their area grow,” Ericksen said. “It’s not going to be one-size-fits-all – each (area) will have their preferences on the three scenarios, but we’ll figure out how to monitor all of those individually.”
Linda Vela, San Antonio-Bexar County MPO consultant project manager, explains projected growth scenarios to New Braunfels-area residents during a Feb. 26 meeting. Photo by Josh Michael
In-N-Out continues from pg. 10
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medicine at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, who was thrilled to learn his favorite burger joint was coming to the area. Palmer said whenever he and his wife, Cindy, get off the plane in California, “First we rent a car. We drive straight to In-N-Out for a bag of burgers to go, and then to see Cindy’s mom.” During the past two years, there have been several rumors regarding In-N-Out’s plans for the San Antonio area, including possible
locations north and east of the city. Selma City Administrator Ken Roberts said he did not believe the new burger restaurant would affect his town. “It’s a long way to go for lunch,” he said, but added, “My kids like it.” Roberts said it would be up to In-NOut to decide on a location in the Selma area, where he said an organization called Retail Coach does front-end work attracting new businesses to the city. “In-N-Out is not on their list,” Roberts said.
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MEDICAL HEALTH CARE
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Electronic medical records coming to SA by travis e. poling
L
ogging on to the computer to check personal medical records could become as commonplace as checking your bank account or a credit score in the near future. The idea being put in place by Healthcare Access San Antonio is one executives say will not only place health knowledge in the hands of patients, but also save lives and money.
Working with hospital systems and physician practices, the nonprofit organization is compiling thousands of medical records available only to the patient and medical providers with patient permission. “If you’re in Dallas or Houston and in a car wreck, the emergency physician needs to see your records,” said Kimberly Harris, who heads marketing and business development for HASA. Harris likens it to
going to France on vacation and using a bank card from back home to get money. The initiative is one of several around the country to create a health-information exchange. That includes medical records from hospitals and doctors that could be accessed from anywhere as needed by the patient, and a personal health record that could include test results, medications and doctor and insurance information. The Baptist Health System, Methodist Healthcare System, Christus Santa Rosa Health System, Nix Health System and University Health System have all provided secure patient records to HASA. Those 600,000 patient records eventually will be connected to a statewide network, said Gijs Van Oort, CEO of HASA. In all, more than 1,900 doctors and 83 hospitals in the region have signed on, according to HASA. It’s all part of a federal effort to connect health care providers across the state and in neighboring states. Because of the size of Texas, the state has opted to give the task to regional groups such as HASA. All are overseen by the Texas Health Services Authority. HASA received federal
march 2014
funds in 2010 to launch the initiative in Bexar and 22 surrounding counties. Like credit reports, the patient records allow people to check their data for accuracy. “A lot of people simply want to see their record (at the doctor’s office or hospital) and sometimes find the information is not correct,” Van Oort said. It also is a way to educate the patient, track data for chronic diseases and “gives them more purpose to take action,” he added. While larger medical groups, which mostly are using advanced electronic record-keeping systems, have seen the value of the healthinformation exchange idea, it has been a harder sell to doctors in solo practice, Van Oort said. The advantage for solo doctors is they can easily get access to their patients and patient records without so much paper changing hands or long waits. What’s more, front-office staff can readily call up insurance and billing data without seeing the patient’s medical records, he said. Dr. Ramone Figueroa, who heads technology initiatives for San Antoniobased medical group and insurer WellMed, said all the clinics in the WellMed family will soon be on one system that can help
generate reports on who needs care. The clinics, which serve about 45,000 senior citizens in the San Antonio area and 55,000 in Austin, El Paso, Corpus Christi, the Rio Grande Valley and parts of Florida, once had 11 different electronic medical-record systems. In the works for WellMed is a portal where patients can securely check their test results, past reports and even make an appointment. Van Oort said smaller hospitals sending patients for additional specialty care in San Antonio also will benefit from the records exchange. Under the HASA system, the San Antonio hospital can search records electronically and be ready; meanwhile, the doctor back home can access the San Antonio records for follow-up care. Harris said future steps include healthprovider access, as needed, to living wills and power-of-attorney records if a patient is unable to decide on medical treatment for himself, and health coaching for patients, especially those with chronic disease. As the system rolls out, those interested in pre-registering for their own patient records page can go to HASATX. org and click on MyHASA.
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Pediatricians find challenges and many rewards by ron aaron eisenberg
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rom educating parents about whether children need antibiotics to protecting youngsters from cancer, today’s pediatricians say their jobs keep them busy — but also feeling rewarded. “I love my job," said pediatrician Ryan Van Ramshorst. "I just love going to work every day knowing I’m making an impact on children and their families.” One of the biggest challenges faced today by pediatricians is helping parents understand when antibiotics should be used. He and his colleagues prescribe them only when truly needed, Van Ramshorst said. According to the latest research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, evidence indicates that "unnecessary antibiotics can be harmful by promoting resistant organisms in (a) child and the community." Dr. Leah Jacobson said at her practice, Through the Years Pediatrics, she often tries to discuss with families when it's right to take antibiotics. “We consciously try to limit prescribing antibiotics. Over the years the tendency was to offer an antibiotic whenever a parent requested one for their children,” said Jacobson, a boardcertified pediatrician and a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. According to the academy, about 10 million antibiotic prescriptions are written every year for upper respiratory infections that likely won't improve through antibiotic use. Plus, unnecessary antibiotic use puts children at risk of side effects or a potential allergy to the medications, and increases the risk of antibiotic resistance by bacteria, AAP researchers said. Another issue Jacobson has seen is parents choosing not to vaccinate their children. “One of the first things we do with new patients is discuss vaccinations with their parents,” said Jacobson, a mother of three who serves
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Live Oak Allergy & Asthma Clinic Raiqua S. Arastu, MD Adrian G. Letz, MD & Lisa Whelchel, FNP-C
on the Bexar County Medical Society’s board of directors. “If a parent says they do not want their children vaccinated, we politely tell them our practice is not for them and encourage them to seek out another pediatrician.” She added, “We are seeing diseases in children we thought we wouldn’t see again, like pertussis – whooping cough." That disease is largely preventable with the vaccination DTaP — a three-in-one protection against diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis, physicians say. According to the CDC, children who haven't received DTaP vaccines are at least eight times more likely to get pertussis than children who received all five recommended doses of DTaP. Pediatricians also recommend protection against human papillomavirus, or HPV, which has been linked to cervical cancer in girls and genital warts in boys, among children 11 and 12 years of age. The HPV vaccine was embroiled in a political battle in Texas a couple of years ago when Gov. Rick Perry wanted all children in the state to be vaccinated. That flap led some parents to refuse the vaccine, known to many as Gardasil. “We need to do better getting more girls and boys vaccinated with HPV because that will save lives," Van Ramshorst said. The CDC reports cervical cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among women around the world. In the United States, about 12,000 women get cervical cancer every year and some 4,000 are expected to die from it. According to HealthGrades. com, there are an estimated 633 pediatricians within 25 miles of downtown San Antonio. So how does a parent pick one? Experts suggest talking to friends and neighbors for recommendations on a pediatrician. Suggestions include looking for pediatricians whose office staff seems caring, welcoming and professional. For more information on pediatricians and children’s medical care, visit the American Academy of Pediatrics website at www.aap.org.
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Wood Creek Vapory offers smokeless alternatives by eric moreno
C
Wood Creek Vapory in Converse has picked up on a national trend, as more businesses are offering smokeless alternatives to an expanding clientele of smokers. Photos by Josh Michael
ONVERSE – Mark Twain said: “Giving up smoking is the easiest thing in the world. I know, because I’ve done it thousands of times.” Perhaps Twain might have been able to refrain, had Wood Creek Vapory existed in his day. Since its January opening at 8021 FM 78, Suite 119 in the Ventura PlazaValero Center, the store’s mission has been to provide customers with a smooth vaping experience by offering affordable electronic cigarettes. Nationally, the vaping business is experiencing positive smoke signals, as more folks opt for electronic cigarettes and/or vaporizers over traditional tobacco blends.
“(E-cigarettes) are an excellent evolution from smoking’s bad aspects to the smooth, healthier focus on a vaping experience, shared with friends or during quiet moments of reflection,” said store owner Gary Wood. “My particular vaping device is an electronic pipe, or ePipe. Think of the enjoyment of a nice pipe without having to worry about smoke, fire, the smell of cigarettes and the rest.” Wood Creek offers free trials of flavors and brands, as well as instructions and information. Customers are offered selections from Wood Creek’s Dragon series line of eJuices, which come in flavors such as wines, teas and coffees. Also popular are the Lava Tube XB and
eGo-T starter kits, which also are in a variety of styles and colors. “People are learning there is a real opportunity to reclaim our breathing, while stopping the stench of smoking and actually enjoying a vape,” Wood said. “It is safe, fun and enjoyable.” Because e-cigs are new, medical research on the practice is in its infancy, but Wood said he and others are pledged to Wood Creek Vapory’s success. The store is open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
WOOD CREEK VAPORY 8021 FM 78, Suite 119, Converse For more, call 354-7958, visit www.woodcreekvapory.com or WoodCreekVapory/Facebook.
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Oak Valley Vineyards aspiring Hill Country bistro by eric moreno
G
ARDEN RIDGE — The owners of Oak Valley Vineyards Restaurant opened their venue in November with a singular vision — to create a bistro offering visitors a taste of the Hill Country not far from San Antonio. “We offer people a really unique setting,” said Beth Colley who, with husband Tim, owns the business located at 27315 FM 3009. “(It’s) a unique, one-of-a-kind setting.” Diners at Oak Valley Vineyards can choose to have meals served in either the Basement Wine Cellar or the Upstairs Room. The Cellar offers a more intimate and rustic setting; the Upstairs Room features Hill Country vistas.
Diners in the Upstairs Room at Oak Valley Vineyards Restaurant in Garden Ridge enjoy their meals in a Hill County setting (above). Wine bottles adorn a light fixture in the venue’s Basement Wine Cellar (right). Photos by Josh Michael
At the Forum
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“We are definitely a destination spot,” Colley said. “Our business isn’t based on drive-by traffic. We make it a point to feature Texas products on our menu, bringing a fused taste of the Hill Country to your plate.” Dishes include the Texas tenderloin tower, cilantro-grilled chicken and jalapeño Parmesan creamed spinach. “Also on the menu is, of course, our smoked peppered rib-eye, Texas quail, homemade cheesecake and sticky toffee pudding,” Colley said. “The Vineyards (is) here to provide our guests with Southern hospitality and our Texas-influenced food, no matter the size of the group.” Roses bloom during the year on the property, and guests are
encouraged to tour mature vineyards dotted with flowing waterscapes. “We have a beautiful covered pavilion surrounded by the vineyards,” Colley said. “Our experienced event coordinator is on staff so that they can assist with any need, making us a one-stop shop for weddings, receptions, business meetings, banquets or other functions.” The restaurant is open 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday and offers a Sunday brunch from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
OAK VALLEY VINEYARDS restaurant 27315 S. FM 3009, Garden Ridge For more, call 830-980-8033, visit www. oakvalleyvineyardsrestaurant.com or OakValleyVineyards/Facebook.
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PROPERTY LISTINGS
January SA home sales get jump on last year
Northeast communities had mixed market results by Travis e. poling
S
an Antonio home sales remained strong during the first month of the new year, which comes on the heels of the best year of sales since 2006. Even in a month when sales tend to be slow, January saw a total of 1,348 sales in the area, up 7 percent from January 2013.
Statistics compiled by the San Antonio Board of Realtors based on Multiple Listing Service data found that two-thirds of sales priced at less than $200,000, and nearly a third were $200,000-$500,000. “December 2013 closed out our biggest sales year since 2006, so it is no surprise January 2014 showed an increase over January 2013,” SABOR Chairwoman Missy Stagers said. “San Antonio’s growing economy has allowed more people to realize the dream of homeownership and the affordable home prices mean they can make their money go further.” The median sales price of a home in San Antonio was up 7 percent to $161,000 and the average price in January rose 6 percent over the same month in 2013. Houses sold in January moved an average of 75 days after hitting the market, 16 percent faster than a year ago, SABOR reported. Despite the health of the housing market for the area, results were mixed in San Antonio communities and small cities on the Northeast Side. In the 78109 ZIP code, the median price of homes sold in January dropped
3 percent to $121,750. More houses sold – 40 compared to 33 last January – but moved more slowly. It took an average of 149 days for the houses to sell, compared to 94 days in the same month last year, according to an analysis of data from the Texas Market Trends Report. The median price in 78148 rose 10.7 percent to $155,000, but closed sales were down by four to nine deals for the month. Inventory was mostly flat at a supply of 4.8 months. In the 78233 ZIP code, the median price was strong with a rise of 37.4 percent to $122,250. Closed sales were up by 11 to 38 deals for January. Average time on the market stayed at around three months. Median price for January sales in 78239 dipped 16.3 percent to $100,000. With 40 new listings for the month, only 10 closed sales and 19 more under contract, the supply of inventory for the area shot up to an estimated 10.4 months, compared to 4.9 months in January 2013. Angela Shields, SABOR president and CEO, said strong sales early in the year portend even better results later in the year, when more people are in the market to buy homes. “The winter months can be a slower sales time in housing, but this year we have been experiencing tremendous growth,” Shields said. “We expect to continue that trend as winter winds down and we enter the spring buying season.”
Street Address
List Price
SQ. FT.
Built
BR
FB
ZIP
9381 Autumn Valley
$115,000
1,265
1994
3
2
78109
8450 Littleport Dr
$95,000
1,572
1977
3
2
78239
6710 Bayport Dr
$145,000
2,290
1979
4
2
78239
6906 Castlerae
$113,500
1,505
1978
3
2
78239
6847 De Palma
$49,900
1,168
1980
4
2
78239
303 North St
$65,000
752
1940
1
1
78109
209 Kneupper Ave
$70,000
1,288
1920
3
2
78109
301 North St
$70,000
992
1940
3
1
78109
208 Avenue D
$89,900
1,711
1966
3
2
78109
7411 Copper Moon
$129,500
1,779
2006
3
2
78109
8614 Copper Bluff
$149,000
2,277
1999
4
2
78109
7423 Copper Mesa
$159,900
3,056
2006
4
2
78109
214 Granada Dr
$132,500
1,633
1974
4
2
78148
8715 Ridge Moon
$103,000
1,463
1990
3
2
78239
8438 Forest Ridge Dr
$82,900
1,479
1984
3
3
78239
6934 Saharastone Dr
$74,900
2,278
2000
4
2
78109
8815 Dakota Creek
$99,850
1,497
2001
3
2
78109
12719 Prima Vista Dr
$100,000
2,199
1969
4
3
78233
4918 Sierra Madre Dr
$115,000
1,350
1969
3
2
78233
12402 La Albada
$139,500
1,761
1972
3
2
78233
4023 Pease Park
$197,262
2,582
2014
4
2
78109
8922 Olmstead Park
$210,760
2,787
2014
5
2
78109
8906 Olmstead Park
$231,727
3,089
2014
5
3
78109
8907 Audubon Park
$184,900
2,565
2008
4
2
78109
4010 Giverny Ct
$155,000
1,764
2007
4
2
78109
109 Golden Way
$139,900
1,622
1999
3
2
78148
8612 Lone Shadow
$213,787
2,452
2014
4
2
78109
6302 Meadow Haven
$125,000
1,905
1978
3
2
78239
7610 Glen Hurst Dr
$29,500
860
1972
3
1
78239
7331 Glen Trl
$94,900
1,209
1977
3
2
78239
7021 Glen Mist Dr
$46,000
1,288
1973
3
2
78239
4615 Guadalajara Dr
$75,900
1,450
1973
3
2
78233
The properties are new listings put on the market from Feb. 22-March 6, 2014. The properties may no longer be on the market by publication date or prices may have changed. Local Community News assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions.
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