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Executive Team John Kessel City Manager John Bierschwale Deputy City Manager Brian James Executive Director Bob Cantu Chief of Staff
Editor’z Letter
VOLUME 30 ISSUE 9 30 Years and counting...!
PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY Public Affairs Department Linda Klepper Communications Manager Chuck McCollough Editor Chris Matzenbacher Sales Director Lucille Sims Thomas Copy Editor Contributing Staffers Erin Matlock Client Affairs Specialist Mary Spence Events Manager Graphic Design/Art Direction Alexis Souza Contributing Writers Chuck McCollough, Lucille Sims Thomas, Andrea Allinger, Kari Bridges, Jim Webb, Stan Leland, Kiko Martinez, Ashley Festa, Rudy Arispe, Tom Lovett, Kaylie Kennedy Contributing Photographers Chuck McCollough, Mary Spence, Joshua Nolden, Lisa Green, Diana Webb, Bryan Tobias, Mike Harris, Beverly McCollough, Ross Dye, Marc Bane, Michael Carpenter, Bryan Nguyen, Joe Herczeg, Andrea Allinger, Kari Bridges, Catherine White, Elizabeth Leland, Rudy Ornelas, Christopher Matzenbacher, Samuel Rhodes, Linda Klepper, Stock Photography: fontsandphotos.com Schertz Magazine is published monthly by the Public Affairs Department of the City of Schertz promoting city, community, and business activities. Our mailing address is 1400 Schertz Parkway, Schertz, Texas 78154. © City of Schertz, Texas The editorial office of Schertz Magazine is at 1400 Schertz Parkway, Schertz, Texas 78154. Call (210) 619-1630. Fax (210) 619-1619. Website is schertz.com and schertzmagazine.com
By Chuck McCollough, Editor
OFFICIAL FINE PRINT Send queries about articles or photographs to Schertz Magazine at 1400 Schertz Parkway, Schertz, Texas 78154. For advertising information: Schertz Magazine, 1400 Schertz Parkway, Schertz, Texas 78154; call (210) 619-1630; Fax (210) 619-1619; email sales@schertz.com. NEWS POLICY Schertz Magazine encourages submission of news and event announcement items. News and event announcements must include contact name and contact phone number. All news and event items must be for activities that occur inside the Schertz city limits. Publication cannot be guaranteed. If you would like to submit an item to Schertz Magazine, email us at events@schertz.com or call us at (210) 619-1630. The appearance of advertising in this publication does not constitute endorsement by the City of Schertz. All products and services advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, marital status, physical or mental handicap, political affiliation or other non-merit factor of purchaser, user or patron. Articles that appear in Schertz Magazine do not necessarily reflect the official position of the City of Schertz and does not constitute an endorsement therein. The appearance of any advertisement in Schertz Magazine does not constitute an endorsement of the goods or services advertised. Any publication of Schertz Magazine, whether draft or final is sole property of the City of Schertz and cannot be reproduced or distributed in any way, whether in print or electronically, without the express permission and written consent of the City of Schertz.
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his month we have stories and photos that underscore a well known fact - Schertz and Success are two words often used in the same sentence. And why are Schertz and Success so similar? So synonymous? Perhaps it is a third word that starts with S - Sharing. In the September issue of Schertz Magazine we report on a new and exciting example of sharing - this time with Joint Base San Antonio and the rest of the regional community. The story tells how Schertz and other local governments and agencies are partnering with JBSA as it deals with the challenges of Sequestration.
The JBSA Community Partnership Initiative was created to explore cost saving opportunities through partnerships and shared services with other government agencies, local communities and the private sector (including either for-profit or not-for-profit entities). Read how community unity is very strong in meeting the goal of this initiative - to enhance the JBSA mission viability and improve quality of life for Airmen, Soldiers, Sailors, and Marines while implementing collaborative projects that reduce operations and services costs and support the economic viability of the San Antonio Community. That’s why we call this area Military City.
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PAGE 19 Inside... Changing gears - ever been in one of those “up a creek without a paddle” situations? Then you need to read our story about kayaking. At a minimum you will know how to use a paddle when you get one. Learn about Schertz resident Art Jennings who has kayaked most of the 15 major rivers in Texas and has traveled the Guadalupe River from its origin to the Texas coast. Next, find out how Schertz Parkway became the iconic, winding boulevard that people rave about and other cities seek to emulate. Nearly a dozen years ago it went from a plain twolane road to its welcoming “gateway to the city” status and continues to inspire
locals to walk its sidewalks and enjoy its greenery. Did you hear the story about the Schertz connection in winning a gold medal in the Paralympics in Sochi? No. Well you’ll find it in the pages of this issue. You will be inspired by the community support for a group of wounded young veterans who were themselves inspired to go for the gold….and got it. Enjoy Also look for stories and photos about the Buffalo Valley Youth Association World Series in Schertz, the legacy of the Perez family in Schertz and the upcoming Fall Clean Up. All that and more in Your Source For Hometown News - Schertz Magazine.
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FEATUREZ
Patriotic Partners Perez Family History Yaking about Kayaking Road to Gold Schertz Parkway
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DEPARTMENTZ TALK OF THE TOWNZ Updatez Visionz / Chamber
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CIVIC NEWZ Updatez
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COVER
Schertz resident Art Jennings enjoys the serenity of kayaking on the San Marcos River.
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Schertz Magazine All Over The Map Take your copy of Schertz Magazine when you travel and take a photo of the mag and you in front of a recognizable place and send to events@schertz.com. You might just make it into the magazine.
The Collette family from Schertz took Schertz Magazine along on their trip north of the border - to Canada. In the photo above Dad Marc, mom Casey, daughter Victoria and granddaughter Sophia, pose with Schertz Magazine and Mayor Jacques LeBlanc of the Town of Shediac, New Brunswick and its “World’s Largest Lobster” display.
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ks Than for us ’ n i k ta ! along
Schertz resident Nicole Eberhardt and her friend Tyler Osgood took Schertz Magazine along on a summer visit to Barcelona, Spain. Nothing like a little bit of home when you’re far from home.
SEEKING NOMINATIONS
STEVE SIMONSON COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD Sherri Westerbeck and daughter Kristi and the Kessler clan - Ryan, Dylan, Addison, Brody and Landon - were hanging out with Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, Goofy and the rest of the gang at Disney World and telling them about Schertz Magazine.
Schertz residents Alex and David Reyes took Schertz Magazine on a trip to Grandma and Grandpa’s house in Vicksburg, MS. Mom Missy Reyes said after the boys read the June issue of Schertz Magazine and learned about the Veterans in the Schertz area they were keen to to learn more about the Battle of Vicksburg and the role it played in the American Civil War.
Schertz residents Alan and Samantha (Sam) Henness took Schertz Magazine on a visit to the Dolomites mountain range just above Aviano Air Base, Italy. “We travelled to Aviano in June to be with our son, Brian and his wife, Lawanna, who is a Captain assigned to the Aviano AB Medical Hospital and to see our 4 grandchildren.
The Steve Simonson Community Service Award is presented annually to the Schertz citizen who during the eligibility year exhibits selfless commitment to his or her community via volunteer efforts that made a difference in others’ lives. The award recognizes people who voluntarily offer their time and talent to improve the community in such areas as (but not limited to): • health care • social services • youth or senior activities • the arts • education • justice • housing • nutrition • community growth and development The Volunteer of the Year and two Distinguished Volunteers will be recognized at a dinner in their honor. Do you know of a deserving honoree? The nomination form can be found at schertz.com under the Events category. You may also pick up a packet at the Schertz Civic Center/ Public Affairs Office Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Nomination packages will be accepted through September 19, 2014. A celebration dinner will be held Thursday, October 30, 2014 at the Schertz Civic Center. schertzmagazine.com
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Cooking in the Garden Fair The Guadalupe County Master Gardeners will hold a Cooking in the Garden Fair and Crafts event on Saturday, October 18, from 9 AM to 1 PM at the Guadalupe County Community Garden at 1101 Elbel Road. The event is free and will include three garden work-
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shops and a craft show. The workshops will cover drip irrigation, cooking with vegetables and a pet friendly environment. For more information or to inquired about the craft show call 210-317-6202 or 210-659-3315.
Texas A&M Prof Gives Library Group Booming Demo On Friday July 11th, the Schertz Public Library hosted the Texas A&M Chemistry Roadshow at the Community Center as part of the annual Summer Reading Program. The Chemistry Roadshow is a public service program which aims to educate and entertain using chemistry. Children, teens, and adults enjoyed the one hour presentation that was jam-packed with exciting science demonstrations conducted by Dr. Jim Pennington, Ph.D. from Texas
A&M University. Elephant toothpaste, Rainbow Magic, Burning Money, and Ice Bomb were just a few of the exciting demonstrations performed by Pennington. For more information on the Chemistry Roadshow please visit www.chem. tamu.edu/roadshow/ and for information on future library events, please visit the library calendar at schertzlibrary.org/calendar.​
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World Series Brings Players, Parents and Economic Boost The Buffalo Valley Youth Association hosted the Shetland-Pinto World Series at Schertz Ballpark July 23-26. Twenty-two area champion teams from Florida, Louisiana and Texas, including BVYA's own All-Star teams, competed for World Series honors during the four-day event. The influx of World Series visitors from the three-state area to Schertz gave the city an economic boost by doing business with local hotels and restaurants.
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Currently Accepting New Patients
Hearing Aid Fitting and Consultations Custom Hearing Protection
OUR SERVICES
Diagnostic Hearing Evaluations for Children and Adults Hearing Aid Repairs Tinnitus Evaluations
Doss Audiology & Hearing Center 5000 Schertz Parkway, Suite 300 • Schertz, TX 78154 Phone: 210.819.5002 • www.dossaudiology.com
September Events Civic Center: Sept. 7 - San Antonio Record Convention Sept. 15 - Model and Talent class Sept. 16 - Schertz Chamber of Commerce Luncheon Sept. 20 - Hill Country Doll Show Sept. 22 - Model and Talent Class Sept. 25-28 - Feed My Starving Children Mobile Pack
Upcoming event: Oct. 3-4 - Alamo Area Square and Round Dance Association Convention
Community Center: Zumba - M-W 6pm
Upcoming event: Oct. 3-4 - Beading House Trunk/ Jewelry Show
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VISIONZ
Your Schertz Chamber Welcoming New Business and Members to the Community!
Contreras Flowers in Schertz
The Weisinger Law Firm in Selma
Pediatric Therapy Specialists in Schertz
Alamo Kids Sports in San Antonio
Main Street Hub in Austin
Quality Education Depends on Good Vision Be sure your child has an annual eye exam. Leigha M. Nielsen, OD 17460 IH 35 North, Suite 412 • Schertz, TX 78154
210.590.2482 • www.shertztso.com
Caring for the Eyes of Texas
DON’TFALL BEHIND!
Make sure you don’t fall behind at the Schertz Family YMCA! We offer quality programs that support youth development, healthy living and social responsibility in a family friendly atmosphere.
STRIDE Running Program—a running program for beginners & intermediates. Training twice a week, group runs & more!
Fall & Preschool Sports—Soccer, Volleyball, Flag Football! Register online and in our branch!
Family Activities—Fall Festival, Parent’s Night Out & Y After Dark! FREE child care with your family membership!
SCHERTZ FAMILY YMCA • 621 Westchester Dr. • Schertz, TX • (210) 619-1900 • www.ymcasatx.org
FEATUREZ
JBSA Patriotic Partners Pulling Together By Chuck McCollough
The City of Schertz is partnering with Joint Base San Antonio and others to come up with innovative ideas and solutions to deal with Sequestration budget cuts.
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unding for installation support - which includes infrastructure and grounds upkeep - dropped 35 percent at JBSA from fiscal years 2011 to 2014. The Schertz City Council on July 29 passed a resolution supporting a JBSA Community Partnership Initiative between JBSA and the San Antonio community, State of Texas, local governments, community organizations, and local businesses. On August 5 Schertz, along with other cities and groups and JBSA, signed the charter agreement in a ceremony at the Alamo University Center
on Pat Booker Road. Mayor Michael Carpenter signed the JBSA Community Partnership Initiative for the City. “The City of Schertz has a long relationship and strong partnership with the military, and we are excited about finding new and innovative ways to support the troops and their missions,” he said. Mayor Carpenter pointed out that Schertz has worked with the U.S. Military for many years in areas like mutual-aid firefighting and more recently in the areas of animal control and library use.
Schertz Mayor Michael Carpenter ((third from right) and Brig. Gen. Robert LaBrutta (center) stand with other officals after the signing ceremony.
“Our military is having to do more with less. As a result, we are all pursuing and learning new ways for the civilian sector to support the military mission,” he said.
ment entities) and publicprivate initiatives to achieve savings in areas like energy efficiency, joint purchasing, and moral, welfare, and recreation (quality of life) services.
“It is interesting to see that, for perhaps the first time since World War II, the local civilian population has a much larger opportunity to directly participate in the mission of our military - through the JBSA Community Partnership Initiative,” Mayor Carpenter said.
And, the agreement strives to sustain and increase the military value of JBSA and support the economic vitality and quality of life in the region.
The agreement between Schertz and other JBSA partners envisions publicpublic (JBSA and govern-
An example of such partnerships is a recent agreement between JBSA and the Alamo City allowing San Antonio Animal Control to work on Fort Sam Houston and Lackland AFB.
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JBSA Patriotic Partners cont’d from page 19
Other examples of how the community partnership could work include potential sharing of runways for military and civilian aircraft, sharing recreational facilities like golf courses and allowing military members and families to use community libraries if the libraries within JBSA fence lines were modified drastically or closed, the General said.
Military City The San Antonio area is known as “Military City” for good reasons. The Department of Defense is the largest local employer with a workforce of 80,000, a payroll of $8.11 billion and total economic impact of almost $14 billion annually, according to 2012 figures. JBSA supports approximately 400,000 people (employees and dependents). By comparison, San Antonio’s current population is around 1.4 million. “Joint Base San Antonio is critical to everyone in our area,” said JBSA Installation Commander Brig. Gen. Robert LaBrutta. “I have not been to a place that embraces the military as much as San Antonio. And not just the military member, but their family.
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This truly is Military City,” said the general, who is on his fifth assignment to the Alamo City. On July 10, LaBrutta updated the Northeast Partnership For Economic Development on the JBSA budget situation at the group’s monthly meeting. NEP is a coalition of Metrocom suburban cities. LaBrutta said Joint Basing started as part of the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) in 2005 with a first phase that realigned 26 geographically bordering bases into 12 joint bases. The second phase of BRAC dealt with realigning nonbordering military installations like the ones in San Antonio. JBSA, which encompasses 11 separate locations totaling 45,000plus acres, was established in October 2010, the general said. Joint Basing goals include: *Reducing duplication of efforts to achieve efficiencies *Consolidate and optimize service contracts *Improve facility utilization and develop best practices Joint Basing principals include: *Preserve and enhance warfighting capabilities *Provide optimal delivery of installation support
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Mayor Michael Carpenter and Brig. Gen. Robert LaBrutta
Sequestration Impact Sequestration has gone way beyond the cost-saving goals of BRAC and has forced the Department of Defense to tighten its belt significantly. JBSA installation support funding was reduced by more than $100M since its inception and projections indicate that more reductions will occur for the next 5-10 years, said Gen LaBrutta. “We don’t see sequestration going away and therefore, we will have to make more service and support reductions and hard choices in FY 2015 and in FY2016, it could really get really ugly,” he told NEP members. And it is going to get worse, according to LaBrutta. “I don’t see sequestration going away and we will have to make more hard choices in FY 2015. FY 2016 and beyond could really get ugly,” he told NEP members. That is why the JBSA partnership with the local community is so important, the
general stressed. JBSA has 200-plus mission partners, interfaces with 1,000 civic leaders in San Antonio and has working relations with 20 smaller communities, four counties and four Congressional districts. That is a large talent pool of motivated partners with a laser focus on the same primary goal - making JBSA work and work well. In his address to NEP member cities including Schertz, LaBrutta’s Power Point presentation said the goal of the JBSA Community Partnership is to make every dollar count and to show the mutual benefits for all partners. And perhaps the biggest mutual benefit of all is that the partnership will help position the San Antonio area for the next round of BRAC, and ensure the economic vitality of the San Antonio region.
FEATUREZ
Perez Family Part of Schertz History By Jim and Diana Webb
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edro (Pete) Perez Sr.’s father was serving with the forces of Pancho Villa when he decided to move his family out of Mexico for their safety. According to Pete, when his father, then around 18 years old, took the family to a safe location and was preparing to return to the fighting, his pregnant wife, fearing for his safety, refused to let him go. So, he stayed and that began the history of the family in its new home in the U.S.
Initially, the family lived in Kenedy. After some time in Seguin, they relocated to McQueeney where Pete, the youngest of 12 children, was born. Later, when Pete was six years old or so, the family moved to Schertz and lived for the next several years in what is now Pickrell Park. Pete was an industrious, resourceful worker from an early age. He sought opportunities to earn money or food or other resources in a variety of venues. He worked alongside his
father picking pecans and pecans often were also his food on those days. He worked in gas stations and auto repair shops doing odd jobs and learning some mechanical skills (proof of his skills can be seen in the 1958 Ford Fairlane he restored and drove in the 2014 Schertz 4th of July parade! Pete met his wife, Francisca (Frances), at the Starlite Drive-In movie theater, which was located on FM 78 (near where the VFW Post is today). Pete said
he noticed this pretty girl sitting with a friend on a bench. Though warned by his cousin that she would not want him to talk to her, Pete decided to do so anyway. True to the cousin’s prediction, Frances told Pete he could not join them on the bench. Pete decided to continue his efforts anyway, and bent down to try to kiss her on the cheek. Her response was a swift slap to his face! The next week the two again were at the Starlite. Once more, Pete tried
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Perez Part of Schertz History cont’d from page 21 to sit next to Frances. This time she allowed him to do so but, as son Pete Jr. relates, just to be safe his dad put his hand on his mother’s in case she might have another slapping on her mind. A few months later, the two were wed in Seguin in 1956 but only after Pete’s father and a friend were able to persuade Frances’ father that Pete, in spite of Frances’ parents’ concerns, would be a good husband to their daughter. The young couple purchased a home in what was known as the Rittiman Addition that was also referred to as the Mexican barrio. They remained in that area in different homes until a few years ago. As had become his nature, Pete continued to work multiple jobs. He worked at a variety of Schertz businesses, including the old Ace Hardware and Riedel’s. Along the way, he became friends with many Schertz area businessmen and also other prominent citizens. One of Pete’s many jobs was at The Cue Family Center on the south side of FM 78, just west of FM 1518. After managing The Cue for a few years, he and Frances purchased it in 1978, and it became “Pete’s The Cue, Restaurant and Bar.” One of the most well-known people to visit the Cue was Freddy Fender.
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An interesting event that occurred at The Cue during the Perez’s tenure as owners was the setting of a Guinness World’s record for the longest, continuous pool game. It occurred over a seven-day period, and went on for 154 hours straight! The previous record was 151 hours. Pete Jr. explained that, partly due to its proximity to Randolph AFB, The Cue was one of the few places at that time where people of all races interacted. They sold the facility in 1985. Pete was a member of the first Schertz fire department. In fact, he drove the fire truck that today sits in the front parking lot of the old Riedel’s furniture store on FM 78. He proudly displays his badges from the Schertz fire department and from the Universal City fire department, where he also served. Also, Pete was a bus driver for the SchertzCibolo-Universal City ISD for many years. He has also been active in the Lions Club and the Knights of Columbus. In recent years, Pete and Frances have been involved in historical preservation of property within Schertz. A few years ago, they purchased the property at 212 Lee Street. The home on this property was built in 1909 and had been previously
owned by the first marshal of Schertz, Hugo Ackerman. Over a period of three years, the family undertook extensive renovations while, at the same time, attempting to retain as much of the original interior and exterior materials and appearance as possible. Pete Jr. recounts how, at the time his parents bought it, the house had galvanized panels around its entire perimeter. It had the appearance of a fortress! In May, 2011, their good friend, Schertz Mayor Hal Baldwin, presented Pete and Frances with the first-ever Schertz Landmark Property plaque in recognition and in appreciation of their restoration and renovation accomplishments. They are proud of the contributions to the restoration efforts made by other family members, including their architect grandson and their carpenter son-in-law.
many reasons the family members enjoy living close to each other is the opportunity to visit frequently. They make it a point to all gather together one night each week. Pete and Frances continue to work on their property and home. Right now, they have developed plans to add another porch on the west side of the house. Another favorite pastime is enjoying their five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Pete and Frances and their extended family represent one of the solid threads in the fabric of the history of the Schertz community -and there is still more they intend to do!
Pete and Frances’ three children, Pete Jr., Armando, and Linda, live in homes on property adjacent to their parents and to each other on Lee and on Church streets. In fact, Armando’s home on Lee Street also has been designated as a Schertz landmark property. Pete Jr. is a longtime member of the Schertz Historical Preservation Committee and works to preserve the area’s history and landmarks for future generations. One of the schertzmagazine.com
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FEATUREZ
Yaking About Kayaking By Stan Leland
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eeing the natural beauty of Texas from a kayak motivates Schertz resident Art Jennings to kayak every chance he gets.
water at first light so we would finish before the day got too hot, possibly see more wildlife, and avoid potential afternoon winds and thunderstorms.
Dawn was still 45 minutes away as we headed out with our kayaks in the back of Art’s pickup. Since they extended beyond the tailgate, we had a blinking safety light on the kayaks. Our goal was to be on the
“O-dark-thirty” is a regular start time for Art three to five times a week as he heads out to one of Texas’ many rivers to enjoy another day of kayaking. Having retired from teaching and medical research, he is able
to devote himself full time to his lifelong passion of being in the wild and on the water. Brought up in East Texas using canoes, jon boats and pirogues, a kayak has become Art’s boat of choice. Art has kayaked most of the major rivers in Texas and has traveled the Guadalupe River from its origin to the Texas coast in small segments at a time. Texas is blessed with 15 major rivers
and scores of minor rivers with hundreds of miles of meandering waterways. Art would like to paddle all the Texas rivers, but this goal will not be reached since he has recently added the coast around Rockport to his kayak explorations. In Art’s words, “This is a nice problem, and there is always another kayaking adventure to look forward to and share with others.”
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Yaking about Kayaking cont’d from page 25 We reached the put-in point and unloaded our gear. While I stayed with the kayaks, Art and another friend drove to the take-out point to leave his truck. When they returned 30 minutes later, dawn was quickly illuminating the river landscape. We pushed out into the current and spent the next 4-5 hours gently floating through a magical world of cypress and cottonwood cathedrals, lush river foliage with clusters of elephant ears and always the possibility of seeing a variety of birds and wildlife. Art’s encyclopedic knowledge of the outdoors adds appreciation to the trip. Identifying trees and pointing out geological features is just part of his educator’s gifting that never stopped in spite of retiring from the man-made classroom. Kayaking rivers in Texas brings to mind for many people the Texas Water Safari. This 260-mile endurance race is from San Marcos to Seadrift. The Water Safari is to casual kayaking what a marathon is to hiking in a park. One requires endurance and top physical shape; the other only requires you to enjoy the beauty of Texas streams and rivers. Texans are fortunate that the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) appreciated the importance of canoeing and kayaking
and developed the Paddling Trails program. This program has made it possible for people all over Texas to have access to picturesque rivers and streams. TPWD has established hundreds of miles of marked inland waterways specifically for canoes and kayaks. A list of them can be found at the website: www.tpwd.state.tx.us My wife and I are two of many people Art has introduced to the sport of kayaking. He needs very little excuse to load up his boats and head out with a first timer in the passenger seat. He has introduced people of all ages to the sport of kayaking. His oldest guest thus far was an 80-year-old woman. Art normally takes a novice kayaker to a “flat water” location like Lake Placid or Canyon Lake. Handling a kayak has a learning curve and it also requires a measure of upper body strength. Neither of those two attributes should have their first test on the swift current of an isolated section of a river. Once Art is satisfied the first-timer can handle a kayak, they can try “moving water.” Art’s philosophy is, “Kayaking is a recreational sport that should be fun, safe, and enjoyable.” Art’s kayaking fuels his other passions -- observing nature
and photography. I don’t have exact numbers, but Art takes more pictures per mile of river than anyone I know. He has an amazing portfolio of pictures he gladly shares with everyone. One of his photographic traditions is to take a picture of his guests with a significant part of the river as a backdrop. One group had their picture taken in front of a tumbling waterfall only to have Art tell them the beautiful waterfall was the outflow from a water treatment plant. Smiling, he assured his guests the water flowing into the river was cleaner than the water in the river. As we reach our take-out point, our enthusiasm wants the trip to continue while our
backsides are glad to get out. Since Art has traveled these waters so many times, he has also become an authority regarding good places to eat. This day is no exception, so we headed to a local eatery to relive the morning’s trip. One of the many comments Art loves to hear from newbies is, “The river sure looks different from a kayak than it does when I drive over the bridge!” “That is music to my ears,” Art said. The next time you are out at “o-dark-thirty” and you see kayaks loaded in a pickup with a blinking warning light on the back, you’ll know the “Art of Kayaking” is headed for a river, bay, or estuary.
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FEATUREZ
The Road To Gold Goes This Way By Chuck McCollough
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he road to winning Sled Hockey Gold Medals in the 2014 Paralympic Winter Games in Sochi runs right through Schertz and the Metrocom area. Three members of the U.S. National Sled Hockey team including Josh Sweeney who scored the winning (and only) goal in the championship match against Russia - helped set up a program in this area for wounded veterans called Automotivation. The trio - Sweeney, Rico Roman and Jen Lee - are disabled veterans and also members of the San Antonio Rampage Sled Hockey Team that captured its first
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national championship at the 2014 Sled Hockey National Tournament in April this year. Automotivation is part of Operation Comfort and is located in a building owned by Schertz resident, restaurateur and philanthropist Grumpy Azzoz, who also owns Grumpy’s Mexican Cafe near Bracken. Automotivation, which gives wounded warriors a chance to work on automobiles for training and therapy, is one of many programs Operation Comfort has for the young disabled veterans. Operation Comfort Founder and Executive Director Janis
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Roznowski said: “Automotivation and Sled Hockey are programs that we came up with to engage our wounded service members that will challenge them. “Grumpy rents space to Operation Comfort for our Automotivation program at a discounted rate. This is one of the many ways Grumpy gives back to our wounded service members. He allows us to have a building that we can afford, in order to engage wounded service members who are mechanically inclined and want to learn new skills, or perfect the automotive skills they have,” she said. “Grumpy deeply cares about
all military service members and especially wounded warriors,” Roznowski stressed. Grumpy’s support for the disabled veterans hit an even higher level while watching the Sled Hockey championship game between the U.S. and Russian teams because he personally knows Sweeney, Roman and Lee from their association with Automotivation program. “I watched the Paralympics game and know Josh scored the goal but I had to go Google it because I wanted to make sure,” Grumpy said with a big smile. “I looked at my wife and said
people (watching the game) can literally see these young people - some without arms and legs - who have sacrificed for our country - out there representing our country. It is hard to say how you feel at that moment (when they scored the goal). I hope people recognize those players for the heroes they are,” Grumpy said. The national spotlight recently fell on Josh Sweeney and the U.S. National Sled Hockey team when he was awarded the first Pat Tillman Award for Service at the ESPY Awards July 16. NBC OlympicTalk had this to report: “The Sochi star of the ESPYs was sled hockey gold medalist Josh Sweeney, who took home the first Pat Tillman Award for Service on Wednesday night.” “I’m extremely honored to be up here and grateful just to be able to receive this award,” Sweeney said in his acceptance speech, after a feature about him narrated by Gary Sinise played inside the Nokia Theater in Los Angeles. “I’ve had amazing support these last four years.” Sweeney received his award from Jeff Bridges to a standing ovation from his sports peers. The Tillman Award was created by ESPN and the Pat Tillman Foundation in honor of the former NFL safety and U.S. Army Ranger. It recog-
nizes an individual with a strong connection to sports who served others in a way that echoes Tillman’s legacy. Operation Comfort’s Roznowski said: “Everyone here at Operation Comfort and its supporters like Grumpy are very proud of our wounded service members and so happy for their accomplishments. “Receiving the Pat Tillman Award for Service I know meant a great deal to Josh Sweeney and to all who know him. These men who have been wounded in combat have a strength and determination to overcome the obstacles that are placed before them. They have trained to be the best in uniform and now in the private sector. Operation Comfort is grateful to have had the honor and the pleasure to be able to work with America’s finest. God bless them all!” she said. “Sled Hockey is another program of Operation Comfort and one of our sled hockey players, Chris Leverkuhn, an amputee, runs our sled hockey program as well as plays on it, and our Automotivation program. Our Paralympians have also come out to the garage to do different things to their cars,” Roznowski said Among other Automotivation alumni on the Rampage Sled Hockey Team are Rico Roman (mentioned earlier) and Chris Leverkun, who runs the Rampage Sled Hockey program as well as
Josh Sweeney holds his gold medal while visiting Grumpy Azzoz. the Automotivation program, Roznowski said. Roman said Sled Hockey has become a big part of his life and rehab. “I hit people (while playing sled hockey) and get away with it,” he said with a big grin during a celebration at Grumpy’s Cafe for Operation Comfort wounded warrior athletes several months ago. “I was a wrestler and like contact. I never played hockey but learned it and do pretty good,” he said with a laugh at the obvious understatement by a Gold Medal winner. Roman said being on the Rampage Sled
Team and U.S. National Sled Hockey team has filled him with pride and confidence about the future. “Automotivation, and Janis and Grumpy and all who support us make such a big difference. It is amazing,” said Roman, whose story is the subject of an inspirational video by Liberty Mutual that can be seen on YouTube. Sweeney had this to say: “Sled hockey has done so much for me mentally and physically but another passion of mine is working on vehicles.
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Road to Gold
cont’d from page 31 “Automotivation was able to fill that void by helping me work on my truck and make it into the vehicle I wanted it to be as well as giving me the confidence to be able to take on such tasks. Now after winning a Gold medal and knowing I can work on my own vehicles I don’t think there is anything I can’t do without a little help and motivation thanks to Operation Comfort,” the hero of Sochi said. And there was praise for San Antonio’s ice hockey team. “Without the great support of the San Antonio Rampage our Sled Hockey team and program would not exist. Operation Comfort is very grateful to the Rampage organization for its strong support and encouragement,” Roznowski said.
According to the San Antonio Rampage website: The San Antonio Rampage Sled Hockey Team is a joint effort between Operation Comfort and the San Antonio Rampage (AHL) offering a therapeutic and competitive sled hockey team for injured soldiers. The competitors on the team are primarily GI’s rehabilitating at Brooke Army Medical Center (BAMC) and the Center for the Intrepid. Some competitors are veteran soldiers with disabilities, and a limited number of competitors are San Antonio residents with disabilities - See more at www.sarampage.com.
FEATUREZ
Schertz Parkway Expansion “Game Changer� By Stan Leland
I
n March 1993, the Schertz City Council passed an ordinance to widen Schertz Parkway, a narrow two-lane farm road, into a four-lane road extending from Live Oak Road to IH-35. Then-Mayor Earl Sawyer recognized the need to create easier access to the largely agricultural land, which would allow for more growth in the city. A committee was formed to help design the road as well as coordinate the Tax Incremental Financing (TIF). A TIF is a geographic area in which the income from anticipated increased tax revenues is used to pay off construction costs. TIFs enabled cash strapped cities to obtain financing by allowing them to pledge payment from increased tax revenues. TIFs are based on the assumption that after the project is completed the tax appraisals will go up creating more revenue.
In this case, the assumption was that the improved road would encourage homebuilders to develop the area, changing the property from agriculture exempt with minimal tax income to residential property with much higher appraisals. The change would benefit Schertz, Guadalupe County and the school district. The committee consisted of representatives from the City of Schertz, Guadalupe County and SCUCISD. In spite of the city initiating the project, City Council members were prohibited by law from chairing the committee. Mayor Sawyer asked retired Maj. Gen. Jerry Bethke to be the chairman. The committee got to work and secured agreements from Guadalupe County and SCUCISD to pledge part of their tax revenues to help Schertz pay for the road. Early in the process the committee decided the road
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Schertz Parkway cont’d from page 33
should be a boulevard with sidewalks on both sides and a median separating the two lanes. Landscaping was important and the committee wanted trees in the median and along the sidewalks. The city was fortunate because the existing two-lane road had right-ofways large enough to accommodate the new parkway so that no property had to be purchased. Things moved smoothly for about two years. Since the committee meetings were open to the public, concerns and questions were addressed and ideas brought to the committee. A group of local residents were concerned about the TIF arrangement and another group did not like the idea of Schertz losing its small town character (1990 population was 8,000). These two groups formed the “Citizens for Tax Reform” to oppose the parkway. Within a year the opposition group had convinced the school district and the county to withdraw from the TIF agreement.
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Their main argument was that school and county money should not be spent on road building. The $3 million estimated cost of the project now rested on the City of Schertz. Since the entire 1993 city budget was just over $2.3 million, taking
on that kind of debt load seemed impossible. For the next several years the project languished. Finally, after about seven years, Bethke wrote a letter to the city manager requesting the city to either move forward with the project or disband
with bonds. In 2001, bids were requested and Austin Road and Bridge won the contract to build the road. On Jan 18, 2002 the groundbreaking ceremony was held. The ceremony to open the road was held 20 months later on September 27, 2003. Instead of the original $4.5 million, the cost came to $4.3 million, which included $500,000 in change orders due to rising costs of material. During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Bethke made the observation that in 1993 when the committee was formed, the tax appraisal for the land bordering the two-lane farm road was $3.3 million. The appraisal at the opening of the road prior to any actual housing development was $90 million. After the road was finished, Bethke received a surprising letter from the “Citizens for Tax Reform” congratulating him for persevering to get the road completed. They also noted that it would benefit to the City of Schertz. And so it has.
the committee. Hal Baldwin, the mayor at that time and Kerry Sweat, the city manager, decided Schertz needed to step up and see the project through. They and the City Council found a way for Schertz to finance the entire project
Ken Greenwald moved to Schertz in 1972 and served on the City Council from 1986 to 2008. He remembers the evolution of Schertz Parkway from before it had that name to the connection to IH-35. “Everyone knew we needed another access to IH-35, one that could connect to what would become the central city area and on to FM 78,” he said. cont’d on page 36
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Schertz Parkway cont’d from page 35
Greenwald said Schertz Parkway stopped where Live Oak Road is now and a mighty effort was made in the mid-1980s to connect it to the interstate. That effort involved condemning land to clear the path. A two-lane version of Schertz Parkway was punched through to IH-35 in 1986 and the move to expand it to four lanes with a median and boulevard look played out over a 17-year period. “The City Council vote to approve the expansion and upgrade of Schertz Parkway was unanimous and one of the most important decisions made by a council. It was a game changer. Schertz Parkway has proven to be very important to the city and a beautiful welcoming entrance to our city,” Greenwald said. Mayor Michael Carpenter emphasizes Schertz Parkway is much more just a road. “If not for Schertz Parkway, we might never have bought a home here in fall 1997,” he said, recalling how he and his wife Missy saw a sign for new homes and decided to exit IH-35 and check it out. “My first contact with Schertz was driving down the then two-lane parkway. Likewise today, most people visiting our City for the first
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time drive down Schertz Parkway. It is their first impression of our community and who we are - and it is very positive,” Carpenter explained. The Mayor said a co-worker approached him recently and raved about visiting Schertz and, its clean, hometown look and feel and that she wished she lived here. He asked where she drove and she said Schertz Parkway. “While driving on Schertz Parkway the other day, (Chief of Staff) Bob Cantu and I saw man walking on the Parkway stop to pick up some trash and walk it to a nearby trash can. That is not unusual because residents have ownership in Schertz Parkway -- it is the ‘People’s Parkway.’” He went on to explain that Schertz Parkway, with its greenery, friendly mix of walkers and runners and variety of scenery along the way, make the road something special. “It embodies our three core areas - it is a functional roadway, it’s beauty and walkways are part our our quality of life and it helps drive our economic engine by facilitating access to commerce,” Mayor Carpenter said.
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CIVIC NEWZ YOUR EXCLUSIVE SOURCE FOR NEWS FROM THE CITY OF SCHERTZ
Wilenchik Walk Has Raised $141,000 For CTRC
At a recent City Council meeting officials with the Cancer Therapy & Research Center (CTRC) at the University of Texas Health Science Center, received a check for $18,702 with money raised at 6th annual Wilenchik Walk for Life on March 1. From left are: Mayor Michael Carpenter, Sheri Ortiz, CTRC Director of Development; Valerie Wilenchik, widow
of former City Councilman Tony Wilenchik who underwent treatment at CTRC and for whom the event is named; City Manager John Kessel; and Dr. Steve Weitman, CTRC Director of the Institute for Drug Development. The Wilenchik Walk has raised $141,000 for CTRC over the years.
Daryl John Takes Oath As Mayor Pro Tem Mayor Michael Carpenter (left) swears in Place 3 City Councilmember Daryl John as the new Mayor Pro Tem during the August 5 City Council meeting. Mayor Pro Tem John will serve in that position for the next six months. The Mayor Pro Tem serves in the absence of the mayor and presides over City Council meetings and handles other mayoral duties in that absence.
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Residents Attend 1st Community Budget Discussion August 6
In the photo above, City Manager John Kessel addresses residents and other interested visitors about the proposed Fiscal Year 2014-15 City budget during an August 6 Community Budget Discussion in the Schertz Civic Center Bluebonnet Room. A second Community Budget Discussion was held August 14 at Schertz
United Methodist Church on FM 3009. The Community Budget Discussions were part of the City Budget process that includes pre-budget public meetings in spring and the summer meetings where City Staff present highlights of the proposed City Budget for the next fiscal year that starts October 1.
SAWS Celebrates Pump Station in Schertz The San Antonio Water System has partnered with the Schertz-Seguin Local Government Corp. (SSLGC) to transport water to Northeast San Antonio. Officials from SAWS, Schertz and Seguin turned the valve to symbolize the flowing of SAWS water through a SSLGC pipeline. The pump station was completed earlier this year and the water has been flowing for some months now.
Above, Ken Greenwald, President, SSLGC Board of Directors, shows off clear, clean water Water Left, a ceremonial turning of the valve at the SAWSbuilt Schertz Pump Station Friday, July 18, marked the completion of a historic water project in South Texas.
Officials included Schertz Mayor Michael Carpenter, Seguin City Manager Douglas Faseler, SAWS President and CEO Robert Puente, SSLGC Board of Directors President Ken Greenwald and SSLGC General Manager Alan Cockrell.
SAWS’ history. Approval of permits by the Gonzales County Underground Water Conservation District allows SAWS to produce and transport up to 11,688 acre-feet of Carrizo Aquifer groundwater from Gonzales County to San Antonio.
The cooperative regional partnership has helped secure the largest nonEdwards water supply in
The Regional Carrizo project is located in Gonzales, approximately 50 miles east of San Antonio. The
project includes delivery of water from western Gonzales County.
ing” available capacity in an existing pipeline owned and operated by SSLGC.
Up to 13 million gallons per day of water produced from the well field is being transported by pipeline to an integration point in northeast San Antonio where it enters the SAWS distribution system.
The project’s estimated cost is $149 million and it is providing water for approximately 60,000 households in San Antonio.
Instead of building a new pipeline, SAWS is “rent-
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Looking Back September
Quote of Note
“History is the sum total of the things that could have been avoided.�
Local History
On September 13, 1890, Sebastian Schertz, first settler of Schertz died leaving the operation of the cotton gin and corn shelling operations to sons Adolph and Martin.
Texas History
On September 11, 1842, San Antonio was captured by 1400 Mexican troops but the Mexicans retreated with prisoners. The University of Texas opened its doors in Austin for inaugural session on September 15, 1883. On September 8, 1900, the great hurricane destroyed much of Galveston and killed 6,000 people there. The discovery of the huge East Texas Oil Field occured with the blow of the Daisy Bradford #3 well on September 5, 1930.
Presented by the Schertz Historical Preservation Committee in the interest of historical perspective and community awareness of local historical legacies.
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Are You Ready for the
November 4 Election? Regular voting for Schertz City Council places 1, 2 and Mayor will be on Tuesday, November 4, 2014 from 7 a.m. to 7 pm. Early voting and regular voting locations are listed on Schertz.com.
Important Dates
The term of office for these three positions is two years and is from November 2014 to November 2016.
First Day to Apply for Ballot by Mail: Friday, September 5, 2014 Last Day to apply for ballot by Mail: Friday, October 24, 2014 (Received – not postmarked) Last day to register to vote: Monday, October 6, 2014 First Day of Early Voting: Monday, October 20, 2014 Last Day of Early Voting: Friday, October 31, 2014 Last Day to Receive Ballot by Mail: November 4, 2014 (Election Day) at 7:00 p.m. (Unless overseas deadline applies) The City will post on the website the early voting locations and times as well as Election Day precinct locations. Important to note that Senate Bill 14 created a new requirement for voters to show photo identification when voting in person. Voters can no longer present their voter registration certificate, or other previously acceptable forms of identification that only showed name/address of the voter. Here is a list of the new identification requirements: 1. Texas Driver’s License issued by the Department of Public Safety (“DPS”) 2. Texas Election Identification Certificate issued by DPS, 3. Texas Personal Identification Card issued by DPS, 4. Texas Concealed Handgun License issued by DPS, 5. United States Military Identification Card containing the person’s photograph, 6. United States Citizenship Certificate containing the person’s photograph, or 7. United States Passport
With the exception of the U.S. citizenship certificate, the identification must be current or have expired no more than 60 days before being presented for voter qualification at the polling place. Exemptions - Voters with a disability may apply with the county voter registrar for a permanent exemption. The application must contain written documentation from either the U.S. Social Security Administration evidencing he or she has been determined to have a disability, or from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs evidencing a disability rating of at least 50 percent. In addition, the applicant must state that he or she has no valid form of photo identification. Those who obtain a disability exemption will be allowed to vote by presenting a voter registration certificate reflecting the exemption. Please contact your voter registrar for more details. Voters who have a consistent religious objection to being photographed and voters who do not have any valid form of photo identification as a result of certain natural disasters as declared by the President of the United States or the Texas Governor, may vote a provisional ballot, appear at the voter registrar’s office within six (6) calendar days after election day, and sign an.affidavit swearing to the religious objection or natural disaster, in order for your ballot to be counted. Please contact your county voter registrar for more details.
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CITY CALENDARZ
Annual Events: September
SchertzFest; Friday and Saturday, September 19-20
October
National Night Out; Tuesday, October 7 Fire Prevention Week; October 5-11 Steve Simonson Volunteer of the Year/ Board and Commission Recognition October 30 Trunk or Treat; Friday, October 31
November
Hal Baldwin Scholarship Golf Tournament; Friday, November 7 Turkey Trot 5K; Thursday, November 27
December
Festival of Angels; Friday, December 5
Be sure to check out visitschertz.com for more event info!
#info
September 2014 Monday 1
City Holiday - Labor Day (offices closed)
Tuesday, 2
City Council, 6:00 PM Council Chamber
Tuesday, 9
City Council, 6:00 PM Council Chambers
Wednesday, 10
Planning & Zoning, 6:00 PM Council Chambers
Monday, 15
Parks & Recreation Advisory Board, 5:30 PM Bob Andrews Room
Tuesday, 16
City Council, 6:00 PM Council Chamber
Tuesday, 22
Board of Adjustments, 6:00 PM Council Chambers
Tuesday, 23
City Council, 6:00 PM Council Chamber
Wednesday, 24
Planning & Zoning, 6:00 PM Council Chambers Meeting locations may change, please visit the calendar at www.schertz.com for more information.
City of Schertz Elected Officials Mayor: Michael Carpenter
Council Members: Jim Fowler David Scagliola Daryl John Cedric Edwards, Sr. Matthew Duke
City Departments:
(210) 619-1045 (210) 658-1442 (830) 606-1130 (210) 204-2750 (210) 566-4540 (210) 204-8649
City of Schertz (210) 619-1000 Animal Control (210) 619-1550 Business/Utilities (210) 619-1100 City Manager (210) 619-1000 City Secretary (210) 619-1030 Civic Center (210) 619-1600 Customer Care/311 (210) 619-1000 Economic Development (210) 619-1070 EMS (non-emergency) (210) 619-1400 Fire (non-emergency) (210) 619-1300 Human Resources (210) 619-1150 Information Technology (210) 619-1180 Inspections (210) 619-1750 Marshal Services (210) 619-1650 Municipal Court (210) 619-1500 Parks & Recreation (210) 619-1850 Planning & Zoning (210) 619-1780 Police (non-emergency) (210) 619-1200 Public Affairs (210) 619-1630 Public Library (210) 619-1700 Public Works (210) 619-1800 Records (210) 619-1030 Website schertz.com
IMPORTANT SCHERTZ WEBSITES schertz.com visitschertz.com schertzmagazine.com Like us on Facebook
Annual Fall Clean Up Dates: October 4 – 19, 2014 Drop off at Bexar Waste Site Items dropped off here will be free of charge to residents as a service paid for by the City of Schertz. The Drop off Site will be open October 4 – 19, 2014. (See below for hazardous items drop off times)
Drop offs may be made at Bexar Waste’s temporary collection point, 2221 F.M. 3009 (Near Live Oak Road) between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. daily. ENTRY TO THIS SITE IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO RESIDENTS DURING CITY SPONSORED SPRING AND FALL CLEAN UP EVENTS.
Please Remember
For a fee, Bexar Waste will pick up household waste not covered under their normal collection service, such as lumber and general trash as well as major appliances and furniture (prices determined by Bexar Waste). If you have questions regarding the details, please call Bexar Waste (210-566-5454). Residents are able to drop off brush and limbs at 2221 FM 3009, free of charge, DURING THE 2 WEEK CLEAN-UP EVENT ONLY.
What you need to know: The Fall Clean Up is restricted to Schertz residents only. Waste delivered must be separated by type of material by the resident. Fall Clean Up activities do not apply to commercial/ rental property clean ups, large property clean up, lot or acreage clean up, or lot and property land clearing. Commercial tree trimmers are not eligible for this service. A current water bill or tax statement and proper identification are required when making a drop-off. Commercial waste will not be accepted.
LIMITS:
Household waste and yard waste only. Maximum of 3 Pick-up truck loads per Household or a Maximum of 2 Trailer loads per Household, trailers are not to exceed 16’ long x 4’ high in size. Couches, Refrigerators, Stoves, Computer/ Monitors, anything and everything that IS NOT HAZARDOUS OR TIRES can be dropped off, free of charge, during the clean up, Monday through Sun-
day, 8:00 am to 6:00 pm. Materials WILL BE sorted by customer, NOT BY Bexar Waste employees. Appliances will be ACCEPTED FREE ONLY IF Freon tank is removed; if Freon tank is still attached there will be a $25.00 fee at time of drop off. Any questions concerning the Freon tank removal, please contact Bexar Waste.
Hazardous Items/ Tires and Drop off Times
HAZARDOUS ITEMS and TIRES may be dropped off ONLY on the weekends of October 1112 and 18-19, 2014. Tires are limited to eight (8) per household. Hazardous waste includes but is not limited to: • Insecticides, pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, chemicals, cleaning and bleach products, swimming pool cleaners and chemicals • Enamel and latex paints in cans and aerosol dispensers, varnish and stains, paint thinners and removers, acetone, etc.These items will have a combined 20 gallon
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limit per household. TIRES are considered hazardous Tires on rims, or wheels, commercial vehicle tires, tractor tires, and heavy equipment tires will not be accepted. Hazardous waste such as used automotive and cooking oils, filters and batteries- Oils will have a combined 20 gallon limit per household. Empty propane tanks up to seven (7) gallons – VALVE MUST BE ENTIRELY REMOVED. Mercury WILL NOT be accepted.
Questions?
For more information about the Fall Clean Up and what will and will not be accepted, please call Bexar Waste (210-5665454) or Schertz Public Works (210-619-1800). You may also dial 311 within the City of Schertz. The City of Schertz and Bexar Waste are not responsible for damage to vehicles or injury to citizens during this event. The City of Schertz and Bexar Waste reserve the right to refuse service to anyone for not following the rules of the clean up.
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PUBLIC AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT 1400 SCHERTZ PARKWAY SCHERTZ, TEXAS 78154