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Saturday, March 1, 2014 Rain or Shine
REGISTRATION Online: active.com Paper: Visitschertz.com REGISTRATION FEE 18 and up $20.00 13-17 $10.00 12 and under FREE Dogs $10.00 FUN RUN All ages
What: 5K Walk along Schertz Parkway Where: Samual Clemens Parking Lot, 1001 Elbel Road, at 8:00 AM Why: To remember loved ones lost to cancer and Honor those still fighting cancer while raising funds for cancer awareness and CTRC.
$25.00
For more information call 201-619-1000 or go to:
visitschertz.com/walkforlife
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Editor’z Letter By Chuck McCollough, Editor
H
ere at Schertz Magazine we use the term Quality of Life often in describing the City. Quality of Life references the general well-being of individuals and societies as opposed the term Standard of Living, which is based primarily on income. It’s well documented that Schertz has been named one of the best places to live and that it has captured other accolades like best this or best that.
But if you want to really, really see the Quality of Life in this city, plan to attend the Buffalo Valley Youth Association Opening Day on Saturday, March 29 at the Schertz Ballpark. Hundreds of boys and girls in colorful uniforms will be there ready to start the BVYA’s 40th year of making community life and family life better through youth sports. In this month’s magazine we look at the history of BVYA and its growth into the premier youth sports league in our neck of the woods. Read about the determination of parents and other volunteers to give their kids a healthy, outdoor alternative to watching TV and sitting at the computer. And look for Schertz’ connection to last month’s Super Bowl in the the March magazine. Read how 17-year-old Clemens senior Christopher Riddle was
in a commercial promoting the half-time show at the Super Bowl. And we didn’t forget about teachers. Enjoy the saga of Wilder Intermediate School special education teacher Iris Harris. At a December meeting she was surprised when a representative of KENS 5 announced that Harris had been chosen by the San Antonio Credit Union (SACU) Golden Apple ExCel program as the outstanding teacher in the Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City Independent School District (SCUCISD). Also this issue meet Wade Mitcheltree, a most remarkable young wounded veteran who participated in the SelmaSchertz 5K event run and captured everyone’s heart with his enthusiasm and spirit. We also have expanded coverage on the Selma-Schertz 5K event. And you will enjoy the story of Mike Harris, the new City Marshal. Mike was Assistant Police Chief and tapped to run the Marshal’s Office after Beverly Todd retired. Mike is a man of many hats. Read and you will find out why. Also look for coverage of Trail Riders coming through town, the Health and Wholeness Fair and much more in Your Source For Hometown News - Schertz Magazine.
Inside...
FEATUREZ
Teacher Wins Gold Apple 23 BVYA Celebrates 40 Years 24 Clemens Student Actor 28
DEPARTMENTZ TALK OF THE TOWNZ Updatez Visionz / Chamber
8 12
FOCUZ: Harris
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CIVIC NEWZ Updatez CALENDARZ
40 47
COVER
Trophies and photos reflect the history of the Buffalo Valley Youth Association.
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NORTH CENTRAL SAN ANTONIO/AIRPORT
NORTHEAST SAN ANTONIO/SCHERTZ
923 Clydeville Rd San Antonio, TX 78216 210-404-9941 airport@weloveyourdog.net
7 Commercial Place Schertz, TX 78154 210-566-4222 northeast@weloveyourdog.net
WE LOVEYOURDOG . NE T
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Spring Break happens to the best of us. This year, don't let self indulgence get the best of him. Reserve his spot at the Ranch for a good ol' responsible vacation!
City Council Michael Carpenter Mayor Jim Fowler Councilmember David Scagliola Councilmember Daryl John Councilmember Cedric Edwards, Sr. Councilmember Matthew Duke Councilmember
Executive Team John Kessel City Manager John Bierschwale Executive Director David J. Harris Executive Director Brian James Executive Director
VOLUME 30 ISSUE 3 PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY Public Affairs Department David J. Harris Interim Director Linda Klepper Business Manager Chuck McCollough Editor Chris Matzenbacher Sales Director Lucille Sims Thomas Copy Editor Brittany Losey Senior Writer Contributing Staffers Erin Matlock Client Affairs Specialist Mary Spence Events Coordinator Graphic Design/Art Direction Souzamaphone Marketing, LLC Contributing Writers Chuck McCollough, Lucille Sims Thomas, Andrea Allinger, Kari Bridges, Jim Webb, Stan Leland, Kiko Martinez, Ashley Festa, Rudy Arispe, Hillory Halbardier, Tom Lovett, Teresa H. Kelley Contributing Photographers Chuck McCollough, Mary Spence, Bryan Tobias, Mike Harris, Diana Webb, Ross Dye, Marc Bane, Michael Carpenter, David J. Harris, 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. Š 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
OFFICIAL FINE PRINT Subscriptions to Schertz Magazine are free for each Schertz household. Subscriptions for residents and businesses outside the City of Schertz are $19.95 annually. Call 210-619-1630. 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) 6191630; 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 nonmerit 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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TALK THEOF
TOWNZ
Easter In the Park April 12 The Schertz-Cibolo Lions Club presents “Easter In The Park� on Saturday, April 12, 2014 at Pickrell Park in Schertz 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM Rain or shine. This free event is open to children up to age 10 which includes a visit by the Easter Bunny, an Easter egg hunt with over 5,000 eggs to find, prize eggs, a moon bounce, entertainment and sponsored games.
A schedule of events for children by age: Diaper Derby (Crawlers) 10:00 AM. Children under 3 10:30 AM. Children ages 3-4 11:00 AM. Children ages 5-7 11:30 AM. Children ages 8-10 12:00 PM
Please arrive early so you can register prior to the event. For more information, call Rhonda Williams at (210) 566-1999
BVYA Opening Day March 29 Buffalo Valley Youth Association will celebrate Opening Day and its 40th Anniversary on Saturday, March 29 at Schertz Ballpark, located in the Hal Baldwin Municipal Complex. The day will begin at 9 am with the Opening Day Parade of nearly 100 youth baseball and softball teams, followed by the Opening Ceremony. Plan to spend the day with friends, family and community to enjoy the carnival, area vendor booths and festivities. For more information, such as how to sign up, go to www.bvya.com or call 210-659-1610. For information on sponsorship or vendor booths send email to kinkade1@earthlink.net.
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SZ March Library Events Free Application and Enrollment Assistance Sessions for the Affordable Care Act Open Enrollment ends March 15, 2014 for coverage to begin April 1, 2014. Join us to: • Get questions answered concerning Health Insurance Marketplace applications and appeals. • Receive one-on-one assistance with applying for insurance or for choosing an insurance plan. Stop by Library Meeting Room 2 on Wednesday March 12 anytime from 1:00-7:00 PM and an Affordable Care Act Navigator will be present to assist you and answer any questions.
Super Party, Super Fun at Schertz Library The Schertz Public Library held a Super Bowl party at 2 p.m. Saturday, February 1, in the children’s program room. The Library, located at 798 Schertz Parkway, encouraged everyone to help celebrate and wear the colors of their favorite team Seattle or Denver. Children and parents had fun with crafts, games and tailgate snacks to prep for the big game the next day. An estimated 20 million Americans attended a Super Bowl party and 10 million hours were spent preparing food for those parties. More than 100 million people watched the big game on TV.
If you want to enroll, it is important to have the following information with you: (For everyone in your household): · Email user name and password · Social Security Number · Date of birth · 2012 Income tax return · Check stubs for one month · Other income information · Health insurance cards · Health insurance plan and cost from employer (If any)
Library Needle Working Group The library needle group meets twice a month one Thursday evening and one Wednesday afternoon. This group is great for advanced needle crafters, as well as for those just beginning. For more information and specific dates and times, please contact the library at (210) 619-1700 or visit the library calendar online schertzlibrary.org/calendar schertzmagazine.com
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Cold Trail Riders Enjoy Warm Schertz Hospitality The GRAY-TRAils Trail Riders and the Kerr Kountry Trail Riders have been riding through Schertz for many years on the way to the San Antonio Livestock Show and Rodeo. This year was one of the coldest in memory, trail bosses for both groups said, and the groups REALLY appreciated the warm soup, hot coffee and other refreshment provided by the City of Schertz. Pictured – City Councilmember Jim Fowler presented a plaque to GRAY-TRAils Trail Boss Joe Coldewey, who reciprocated with a green plaque of appreciation for the City. Councilmember Fowler also presented a plaque to Kerr Country Trail Boss David Wiedenfeld. Coldewey reciprocated with a green plaque of appreciation to the City by GRAY-TRAils. A total of seven covered wagons and 82 riders, along with a number of RVs, stopped in Schertz for the warm lunch and rest.
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On the Road Again (Left) Schertz residents Selene, Aaron and Sophia Alave hold a copy of Schertz Magazine while sitting on a water buffalo in the mountains overlooking Umatac Bay in the southern part of Guam in Micronesia. They are the children of Arnie and Sheila Alave. The family made the trip to their native Guam for a family reunion and surprise party.
To Guam! To St.
Maarten!
Take Schertz Magazine on your next trip and take a photo of the magazine in front of a landmark or interesting background and send to events@schertz.com. We may just use it in the magazine.
s for k n a Th ong! l a s ’u takin
(Below) McKenna and Cooper Martin with Schertz Magazine in Cozumel during a 7-Day Disney Cruise. They are the children of Patrick and Amy Martin.
On a Disney Cruise! (Left) Newlyweds Andrew and Sara Mitschke traveled to St. Maarten for their honeymoon and “took Schertz Magazine with us to celebrate,” Sara said.
(Right) Irma and Dennis Ducharme of Schertz took a recent cruise on the Princess Cays in the Bahamas. “We brought one of our favorite monthly magazines with us, Schertz Magazine,” they said.
To the Bahamas!
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VISIONZ What’s Happenin’? MARK YOUR CALENDARS! H-E-B presents the 5th Annual Taste of the Town on March 20th at the Schertz Civic Center from 5-8 pm. This year’s theme is “Down Home” so expect everything from comfort food to Mom’s favorite recipes! Pre-sale tickets for this event are at the Chamber/Visitor Center offices. Pricing is $13 Adults (ages 12 – 60 years) and $8 Seniors (61+) and Kids (3-11 years). Children 2 years old and younger are free. Pricing will increase on the day of the event so buy your tickets NOW! Call 210-566-9000 for more information.
SCHERTZ CHAMBER TOASTMASTERS CLUB Want to build great communication and leadership skills? The Schertz Chamber Toastmasters meets every Monday at the Comfort Inn & Suites, located at 15771 IH 35 North, in Selma at 6:45pm. Open to all - you don’t have to be a Schertz Chamber member to join. Contact David Smith at 210-913-9288 for more details.
MARCH 13TH CHAMBER MIXER Doss Audiology, 5000 Schertz Parkway, # 300, in Schertz, 5:30pm -7pm. General Admission is $10, Chamber Members are free. RSVP to the Chamber offices or on our websites.
MARCH 18TH CHAMBER LUNCHEON Schertz Civic Center @11:30am – 1pm. Topic: TXDOT Area Updates with Guest Speaker Jonathan Bean. RSVP by March 11th to the Chamber offices or through our Chamber website. General Admission is $28, Chamber Members are $18.
BIZ ED March 26th Biz Ed – 7:30am – 9am at Schertz Chamber of Commerce. The topic will be employer compliance. Breakfast provided by RBFCU. Call 210-566-9000 to RSVP your attendance or use our Chamber website. General Admission is $10 and Chamber members are free.
Unique networking opportunities, education, advocacy and more! Join the Schertz Chamber of Commerce today! Call us at 210-566-9000 or come by and visit at 1730 Schertz Parkway in Schertz. Help us “Build a Better Tomorrow.”
MARCH EVENTS
Civic Center: Mar. 18 – Schertz Chamber Luncheon Mar. 20 – SCOC TASTE OF SCHERTZ - “Down Home” Mar. 26 – LifeLine Health Screening
Community Center: March 4 – Elections Mar. 28 – Teen Dance Zumba – M, W, Th 6:00pm
Happy St. Patty’s Day From the Public Affairs & Civic Center Staff! 1400 Schertz Pkwy, Bldg. #5
(210) 619-1600
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Mitcheltree Shines Through Rehabilitation By Jim Webb Photos Diana Webb
Spec. First Class Wade Mitcheltree, an infantryman and a 15-year Army veteran, had his world altered in 2012 when while on his third combat deployment to Afghanistan he stepped on an improvised explosive device (IED). He has some memories of what occurred that fateful day, but he relied on his fellow soldiers to fill in the gaps. He was helicoptered to a Combat Army Support Hospital, then flown to a military hospital in Germany (where doctors told his wife he probably would not survive), and then transported to San Antonio Military Medical Center (SAMMC) in San Antonio. Since that day he has been treated under the Wounded Warrior program, receiving in-patient care and extensive rehabilitation. He has been through dozens of surgeries and still has more in front of him. His wounds left him a double amputee and he now has prosthetics on his right
Wade Mitcheltree undergoes physical therapy at the Center for the Intrepid. He participated in the Selma-Schertz 5K event..
arm and right leg. His work “assignment� nowadays is rehabilitation. Most days he is at the Center for the Intrepid (CFI) on the SAMMC grounds. He is involved in physical and occupational therapy, and has made wonderful progress. The CFI program also provides for recreational therapy/activities. Wade has been skiing and skeet shooting, and he currently is training for the 25th annual Bataan Memorial Death March, held at White Sands Missile Range and sponsored by the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW). Participants walk a distance of up to 26.2 miles,
carrying a pack weighing at least 35 pounds. One of his training events was in the Selma-Schertz 5K event held January 18. (More information on that event on page 17.) Wade is full of praise for all the folks and facilities involved in his rehabilitation, and he is grateful for all the opportunities he has been provided to help him in his recovery. Wade is from Williamsport, PA. He joined the Army shortly after graduating from high school. He and his wife, Katie, and their sons, Joseph and Ethan, now reside in housing on Fort Sam Houston. During
his career Wade has been stationed in North Carolina (where he met and married Katie), Alaska, Washington, and Georgia. In addition to his infantry skills, Wade is a parachutist, and has served as a drill sergeant. He is an outgoing guy with an infectious smile and a lively sense of humor. When you have spent a few minutes in conversation with him, you come away in a better mood than you were in before the encounter. He intends to remain on active duty until he achieves either a medical or a regular retirement.
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Selma-Schertz 5K Event Honors Vets Story by Jim Webb Photos by Diana Webb
Over 300 people registered and more than 230 enthusiasts turned out January 18 for the fourth annual Selma-Schertz “Salute to Service Members� 5 kilometer (approximately three miles) run/walk, eager to compete and to contribute to a good cause. Another several dozen folks were there to cheer on the participants. The event is a fundraiser for Operation Comfort and put on by the cities of Schertz and Selma, and Texas Physical Therapy Specialists. The latter group works to provide adaptive sports programs and emergency financial assistance for wounded service members. The Blue Bonnet Palace owners donated the use of their facility to the organizers. Participants, ranging in age from toddlers to senior citizens, and supporters gathered at the Blue Bonnet soon after daylight on the sunny, but cool morning. Breakfast burritos, bananas, snack bars and water were available throughout the morning. Inside the Blue Bonnet tables were set up, with organizations providing informational materials and some promotional items. A massage chair was available throughout the morning to provide assistance to participants before and after the race.
were first, followed by runners and then walkers. Among the participants were moms and dads with kids in strollers and several ladies with colorful tutus over their exercise outfits. Wade Mitcheltree, a double amputee, sported a very colorful headdress that made him easy to spot as he walked along the route. He received a very warm reception when he walked across the finish lane.
and their finishing times can be found at http://www.athleteguild. com/running/selma-tx/2014-selmaschertz-salute-to-service-members-5k-runwalk.
While participants were recovering from their exertion, raffle prizes contributed by area businesses were distributed and then awards were presented to winners in the differThe first male and the first runner overall ent age groups and to the fastest to cross the finish line was Allen Phillips runners overall. The biggest winners of the day were Operation Comfort with a time of 16.24 minutes. The first and the wounded warriors they supfemale clocked a time of 18.32 minutes. port as more than $5,000 was raised More than 100 of the runners logged a to support the good works of Operapace of under 10 minutes per mile. tion Comfort. Complete information on participants Schertz Mayor Michael Carpenter (left) and Selma Mayor Tom Daly were there to support participants.
Both Schertz Mayor Michael Carpenter and Selma Mayor Tom Daly were at the start area expressing their support the annual event. Representatives of the event organizers thanked the more than four dozen volunteers whose efforts made event a big success. This year a special pre-race run was held for young children, to the delight of onlookers. Next, the race director directed competitors to their places behind the starting line. Wounded warriors
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Two SCUCISD Students Named National Merit Finalists
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Clemens High School Seniors Tomas Herrera and Noah Land have been named National Merit Finalists. Finalists represent less than 1 percent of the 1.5 million high school seniors who took the scholarship test.
Landmark Designation Presentations Made The Schertz Historical Committee presented two Landmark designations recently. In top photo, Committee Chairman Dean Weirtz presents a Landmark Designation to Mark Sunderman, President & CEO Schertz Bank & Trust. The designation of property at 509 Main Street is in recognition of the building having been first constructed by William Schertz, son of Sebastian Schertz, on a date sometime prior to 1906. The building housed the William Schertz Mercantile Store that became the largest such business operation in the region and was a vital link to needed
commodities and equipment for local farmers. In the bottom photo, Weirtz presents a Landmark Designation to Steve Longoria, pastor at City on a Hill Church. The property designation at 513 Main Street is given in recognition of the building having housed the City of Schertz’ first bank, Schertz State Bank, now Schertz Bank & Trust, in 1913. The bank was vital to the success of the then small farm community’s economic well being. The bank building served the community for 61 years before moving operations to a new building next door.
Noah is a member of the school University Interscholastic League team, competing in Math, Calculator Applications, Number Sense, Computer Science, and Science events. He is a member of the National Honor Society. Last summer, Noah was chosen for and took part in Southwest Research Institute’s Young Engineers and Scientists Program which allowed him to experience what it is like to work in those fields. He will attend Texas A&M University in the fall, where he plans to study nuclear engineering.
Tomas is a member of the school’s Art Club and National Art Honor Society. He is enrolled in Advanced Placement and Dual Credit classes, and maintains a high grade-point average and is ranked third in his class or over 400 students In addition to his National Merit Finalist status, Tomas has been recognized as a National Hispanic Scholar and a College Board Advanced Placement Scholar with Honor. Tomas plans to attend Texas A&M University in the fall to work toward a degree in Visualization within the University’s College of Architecture.
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Clemens Project Graduation 2014 Gearing Up Graduation for the Samuel Clemens High School Class of 2014 will be a time of great celebration and festivities for the students as well as families. Parents and community members extend congratulations to those graduates by hosting Project Graduation 2014, an all-night, alcohol-and-drug free party which will be held at Green Acres. The event will held on graduation night, June 7, 2014, after ceremonies and will continue through to the next morning. All students of the graduating class are welcome and encouraged to attend. An event such at this is a huge undertaking. It can only be possible through the efforts of parent volunteers, school faculty and monetary donations from local businesses.
Health and Wholeness Fair Draws Crowd and Praise An enthusiastic crowd numbering 519 poured into the Schertz Civic Center February 25 to see and sample services and information from 70 vendors. “We had nothing but positive comments and everyone was very excited and said it was a good event,” said
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EMS staffer Bud Hirshberg gives one of many free flu shots at the Fair
Schertz Chamber of Commerce President Maggie Titterington. The Chamber and the City of Schertz hosted the Fair which promotes a well-rounded, holistic message of health and wholeness. Thelma Budett of Selma said it was her
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first Health and Wholeness Fair but it won’t be her last. “It wasn’t just about food, vitamins and exercise. There is much more so you see how to live better in all ways. I got my glucose tested and is was a good number,” she said.
Organizers need to raise $15,000 to $20,000 to fund the event, which includes go karts, paddle boats, water wars, miniature golf, unlimited arcade, paintball and karaoke along with door prizes. A donation of all the food will be provided by the Selma Police BBQ Team. Project Graduation T-shirts are available for $10 each. Financial donations are tax free and can be made by mailing directly to Samuel Clemens High School, Attn: Project Graduation 2014 Sue Eberhardt, 1001 Elbel Rd, Schertz, Texas 78154. For more information, contact Sue Eberhardt at 210-373-3688 or send an email to projgrad2014@yahoo.com.
and sometimes in a paid position. She began working at Wilder as a substitute teacher. A principal became aware of her special education training and experience, and asked her to join the faculty full time. She did and she has been going full-tilt for the students and the school for the past 13 years. Iris is focused on, as she puts it, in making all students “better.”
SCUC Teacher Gets Golden Apple Iris Harris, Outstanding Teacher By Jim Webb Photo by Diana Webb
At a seemingly routine assembly in December, Wilder Intermediate School special education teacher Iris Harris was surprised to hear her name called out and to be asked by the principal to come to the front. The principal then introduced a representative from KENS5-TV who announced that Harris had been chosen by the San Antonio Credit Union (SACU) Golden Apple ExCel program as the outstanding teacher in the Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City Independent School District (SCUCISD). Though taken completely by surprise, it took her only a few seconds to regain her composure. After accepting the Golden Apple Award and the accompanying $1,000 check, she said that the award was really a tribute to the entire staff at Wilder Intermediate,
as they all work together every day to provide each student the opportunity to achieve his/her potential. Iris has been involved in teaching and in education her entire adult life. She has not, however, spent decades at a single school or in a single school district. She met her husband of 27 years, Ray, shortly after he was commissioned as an Air Force officer. The family, which includes three daughters, moved 14 times before Ray’s retirement. Among the places they were stationed were Germany and Alaska. The place where they lived the longest while Ray was on active duty was San Antonio. Iris commented on how she never thought her daughters would graduate from the same high school, but they did – from Clemens High School in Schertz. Wherever they lived, Iris was teaching – sometimes homeschooling her own children, sometimes volunteering,
She explains that while a student may not be able immediately to achieve his/her best, he/she can be expected to be doing better every day. One of her tenets as a teacher is that “if students don’t learn the way we are teaching, we must teach the way they learn.” Iris’ official school day begins with a class on social skills. She is aided each day by her assistant, Susan Chapman. Iris’ goal is to have children learn the proper ways to interact with others, both in and out of school. She points out that, while she has a special emphasis on this with her special education students, the entire staff focuses on these skills with their students throughout the entire year as well. I mentioned at the start of this article that a $1,000 check was part of Harris’ award. Not surprisingly to those who know her, to include her students, she used this money to purchase items for her classroom and for her students. While we were speaking with Iris, one of her students came into the classroom and introduced himself, very politely, to us. When I explained we were interviewing Harris for Schertz Magazine about her selection as teacher of the year, he exclaimed “do you know she spent the $1,000 for things for us in the classroom?” He went on to extol her as THE greatest teacher. Congratulations Mrs. Harris.
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FEATUREZ BVYA
Celebrating 40 Years of Youth Sports By Chuck McCollough
T
urning forty is usually a time for joking about the best days being behind you.
Not so for the Buffalo Valley Youth Association (BVYA), which turns the big 4-0 this month. It gets bigger and better each year.
BVYA is a volunteer and parentdriven organization that began with dozens of youngsters playing baseball and softball and expanded into a powerhouse force offering nine sports. Nearly 48,000 children have participated in BVYA activities through 2013, according to estimates. Today, BVYA offers baseball, softball, swim, football, cheerleading, fall baseball (fallball), volleyball, basketball and wrestling. Children served range in age from 3 to 19. “It is one of the biggest youth sports organization in the San Antonio region,” said Johnie McDow, the longtime president. “We had more than 2,800 kids playing in various sports in 2013. The majority of those are from Schertz and the rest are from Cibolo and surrounding commu-
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nities,” he added. The number of children participating in BVYA programs reflects the city and community’s growth since 1974. BVYA officials estimate participation grew at an average of 500 children per year for the first 22 years (11,000) and then exploded in the mid-1990s when development in the Schertz region skyrocketed. From 1996 through 2013, BVYA had 36,542 youngsters enrolled for a total estimate of 47,542 from 1974 through last year. BVYA started as a fledgling youth sports group in 1974 and partnered with Schertz for use of city ball fields. A group of parents and volunteers formed a nonprofit organization and petitioned the Schertz City Council to use Thulemeyer City Park for a youth sports program. The arrangement was simple – BVYA obtained use of city land and the city got a dedicated group to handle organization of youth recreation activities and do some field maintenance. Both sides saved money and im-
proved the area’s quality of life. Forty baseball/softball seasons later, the partnership is still going strong and proving to be a blueprint for private-public partnerships. In fact, the City/BVYA relationship and that of Schertz with local soccer groups, are models of private-public partnerships that other cities emulate, City Parks and Recreation Director George Logan said.
“BVYA broke off from a large youth sports group because parents wanted to start their own organization.” Ken Greenwald, longtime BVYA supporter
McDow said the main reason for BVYA’s success is the volunteer base of parents who have always stepped up to the challenges of a growing city and league. And, he said, as BVYA started and the Schertz-Cibolo area grew, many employees and elected officials in Schertz, Cibolo, Selma and SCUCISD had kids involved in BVYA. “Many coached or were on our board at one time or the other. The support from those individuals along the way made it a lot easier to grow and support the kids,” McDow said. Former Schertz City Councilmember and Mayor Pro Tem Ken Greenwald served on
the second year board of the young organization. “BVYA broke off from a larger youth sports group because parents wanted to start their own organization.” Greenwald, who can be found many mornings at the BVYA office next to Pickrell Park, said he moved to Schertz in 1972 and was recruited sometime later by then-Mayor Robert Bueker to join the BVYA board. “Everyone in the community wanted this idea to work -having our own youth sports organization. That included BVYA parents like me, the City of Schertz, the local Lions Club, and others who pitched in. I would say BVYA is one of the best examples of partnership the city has. It is truly a community partnership,” Greenwald said. The families of Stan Hall and Julie Biggs benefitted from being part of BVYA during the 1990s. ‘We moved here in 1993 and signed up our son for fallball. BVYA was a great organization then and now, but it was a lot cont’d on page 26
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FEATUREZ BVYA Celebrate 4-0 cont’d from page 25 smaller when our kids were little,” Hall said. He was so impressed with the close-knit, family oriented organization that Hall helped coach the first year and later joined the BVYA baseball commission. “Parent involvement made it work and we had about 35 or so teams at that time. Parents and other volunteers took care of fields, scheduled meeting and did fundraisers. “I remember when someone donated an old scoreboard to the organization and I got to help move it to the fields we used. It was exciting and fun and a lot of work being part of BVYA,” Hall said. He had a son go on to play college baseball and said participation in BVYA helped pave the way for that. “Our family - parents and children - were involved for about six years and we still support BVYA. It is a wellrun group, with folks like Johnie McDow, that helps get kids out from in front of the TV and computer and outdoors playing sports,” Hall said. Biggs and husband Michael and their four children were a BVYA family for most of the 1990’s.
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“Our two girls played softball and our two boys baseball. BVYA was our life for 10 years - going to games, sometimes as far away as Harlingen in deep South Texas, and Michael serving as BVYA president for a time,” she said.
fuels BVYA and other such groups.
“We were very proud to be a part of BVYA and got to know other parents and their kids who also participated. It took - and still does take - a lot of dedication on the part of the whole family.”
“One of our daughters has children in BVYA. We are a second-generation BVYA family and very proud of that,” she said.
Biggs laughed for a moment when told between 2,500 and 3,000 children are expected to participate in 2014. “We thought we had a lot of boys and girls participating back then, but it sure has grown,” she noted. Biggs said BVYA is a success and a big asset for the Schertz Community and beyond because of the devotion of parents, kids, volunteers, businesses, service groups and others. She pointed to new ball fields now visible behind the Hal Baldwin Municipal Complex -- approved along with upgrades to youth soccer fields in a 2010 bond issues- as evidence of the community support that
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“BVYA has been a part of many local families all these years. Now children who played in BVYA years ago have kids of their own participating.
In addition to its partnership with the City of Schertz, McDow said much of BVYA’s growth over the years resulted from its close relationship with the SchertzCibolo-Universal City ISD. “SCUCISD has always been our supporter and without their community support we couldn’t have many of our sports. Many parents don’t realize that when girls softball started at Clemens, the district and BVYA shared a field at Thulemeyer for the high school to play their games on. “In 1996, we had 250 kids playing basketball. This season we will have almost 900 kids playing and practicing in eleven school gyms, wrestling at Marion Dolford Center and playing football at Steele and Shelton complexes,” he said.
In its 40 years, BVYA has helped mold a number of today’s area sports leaders. “Many current educators and coaches for the SCUCISD played at BVYA and in some cases have their own kids playing now. One of the best stories was when Mike Waecker, head basketball coach at Judson High School, coached his young sons in our basketball program. Scott Lehnhoff, Steele
BVYA Timeline By Johnie McDow, BVYA President
1974 - High School head coach played baseball at BVYA,” McDow said. The relationship between BVYA and SCUCISD has been much like our relationship with the City of Schertz. We sweep floors, carry out trash and clean up after our activities so the school district and the City don’t have to. This helps keep their maintenance costs and our fees down.
McDow emphasized that the future of BVYA rests with the younger parents stepping up and volunteering. “Our board of directors as well as various commissioners are all volunteers. At a time when most households have both parents working, the challenge is for those parents to step up. Over the years that I have been involved, there is no way to measure the volunteer time that parents and others did to make BVYA what it is today. Literally hundreds of thousands of man hours either coaching, scorekeeping, mowing, trimming, painting, helping out in the snack bars, or closing a gym. “The future of our league depends on the younger parents stepping up like we all did along the way. Parents like the Halls, Biggs, Greenwalds, Lehnhoffs, and others are what made us what we are. But if we are to face the challenges of future growth in our communities, parents and grandparents need to step in and fill the shoes of people who have come before,” the BVYA president said.
2004 - BVYA assumes con-
A group of parents and citizens playing baseball and softball at Tri-City Youth Association in Universal City decide to form their own league called Buffalo Valley Youth Association.
2005 - BVYA assumes control of Stingrays swim team with 96 kids.
City of Schertz is approached and agrees to let BVYA use fields at H.P. Thulemeyer Park to support youth sports.
2008 - City opens Schertz Ballpark Complex Phase 1 with 4 new fields to support BVYA programs.
Lions Club builds concession stand at Thulemeyer to help BVYA support programs.
2009 - BVYA hosts the inaugural Pony Baseball Pinto South Zone Regional Championships for 7 & 8 year olds.
1990 - Parents and supporters add Anderson Field to complex.
1996- BVYA has 779 kids playing in spring baseball and softball, fall baseball and basketball. 1999 - BVYA starts LilTykes basketball for 4 & 5 year olds in Pre-K. 2001 - BVYA starts volleyball program with 71 kids. 2002 - BVYA starts Slug-
gers division for T-ball kids 4 & 5 year olds in Pre-K.
trol of Cibolo Creek Cougars and starts football and cheer with 163 kids.
2010- BVYA starts wrestling team with 20 kids. 2013 BVYA hosts the new Pony South Zone Shetland (T-ball) and Pinto (coach pitch) World Series with teams from Florida, Louisiana, and Texas. Schertz Ballpark Phase II begins with construction on 3 additional fields. BVYA has over 2,800 kids playing in various sports.
What does the future hold? Biggest challenge is infrastructure and facilities to support the overwhelming interest in youth sports and recreation. There is a greater push for parents to get their kids active and programs that BVYA offers gives them venue. But as our communities grow so will the need for more fields to support more kids. Parent involvement is critical to BVYA and its future.
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FEATUREZ
Clemens Student in Pre-Super Bowl Commercial By Kari Bridges
W
hat began as a traditional photography sitting for 17-year-old Clemens High School senior Christopher Riddle quickly escalated into the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to appear as an extra in a nationally televised commercial promoting Pepsi’s Super Bowl halftime. Last fall, Riddle’s parents, Bill and Suzan Riddle, hired Cibolo photographer Danyelle Johnson, owner of Timeless Reflection by Danyelle, to shoot photographs of son Christopher to commemorate his senior year in high school. Johnson, who specializes in high school seniors, family, maternity, engagement and wedding portraits, quickly discovered that Christopher was open to her ideas and was photographed at two separate outdoor locations. According to Johnson, the atmosphere during the one-hour session with Riddle was fun and relaxed.
“Christopher has been one of my easiest clients. Smiles come natural to him, not forced or still, and poses were effortless and not awkward for him. Christopher is comfortable in front of the camera and is willing to try different types of poses. He nailed all my suggestions, especially when I would ask for a serious look. He just looked like a model to me and has the potential along with a great personality,” Johnson said. After seeing how well the pictures Johnson took turned out, Riddle and his parents made the decision to submit them to Calliope Talent and Modeling Agency in San Antonio. In August, the Riddles signed a contract with the talent and modeling agency and by early December they were contacted regarding not a modeling job as they had expected, but for an
audition to be considered for selection in Pepsi’s 2014 Super Bowl Halftime commercial.
and not return until later in the evening – putting in a 10-hour day on the commercial set.
“We found out the night before that the audition was going to be in Austin and that they were looking for current football players, or someone with a football build. The commercial was going to be for Pepsi and be a re-enactment of how the very first halftime in football history came to be,” said Riddle, who played on the 2013 Clemens Varsity Football Team as a linebacker prior to having surgery on his right hand in September.
“There was a lot of repetition doing multiple tasks with direction and variation. It was very exhausting doing the same thing over and over all day long,” said Riddle, who can be seen in the commercial wearing the 1920’s style black wool jersey with the red number 50 on it.
“When I went in for the audition, they would record two football players together at a time playing football as either the quarterback or linebacker. Each person only had two takes before they would bring in the next set of guys – I was one of the last people to be called back to audition. They were looking to see how coordinated the players were and if they could catch the ball. They also asked questions to see how willing you were to be agreeable and work with the filming crew as a team member, Riddle explained about the audition process. Ten days later, Riddle was notified that he had been selected to be one of 22 extras, or actors with no speaking part, for the 30-second commercial that would be filmed on December 15th and 16th on Steiner Ranch near Bastrop and produced by Hungry Man Productions based out of Los Angeles. The two days of filming were cold, exhausting and exciting all at the same time for Riddle and his parents, who would leave their Schertz home at 4:30 a.m. each day
“Being at the commercial set and seeing all of the equipment and the 100 plus people that were needed to make this commercial was a lot of fun and an awesome experience,” Suzan said. “You don’t realize how many people and the incredible amount of money it takes to make a commercial like this.” ‘All of us enjoyed the way they put the commercial together. We thought the commercial was for the Super Bowl and were shocked when it started playing on FOX, CBS and the NFL Network earlier. It was fun to watch it over and over,” Susan said. “This has been a once-in-a-lifetime commercial for Christopher and to be selected for something as big as Pepsi on his first audition is an incredible opportunity. A lot of the other guys who were there had all tried out five or six times before being selected for this commercial,” Suzan said. “It’s been a fun experience and has brought me more recognition in high school, but I’m not trying to build my life around it,” said Riddle, who has been accepted to UTSA where he plans to pursue a degree in medicine starting this fall.
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FEATUREZ FOCUZ Special Section Dedicated to the Hard Working Employees at the City of Schertz
New Marshal Wears Many
By Chuck McCollough
L
ongtime lawman Michael Harris is the new City Marshal in Schertz. He is the second person to hold that title since the Marshal’s Office was created in 2008. On February 1, Harris - who joined the Schertz Police Department in 1989 and most recently served as Assistant Chief of Police - took over from retired Marshal Beverly Todd. “By that time (2008) city leaders decided it was more efficient to handle warrants and municipal court security (bailiff) in a separate department and they created the Marshals Office,” Todd said.
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The department also is responsible for code compliance and environmental health matters. Harris said he is excited about his new role. “Beverly and I have known each other for 20 years, mostly from our time both working for Schertz PD. She laid the foundation for Marshal’s Office and made it into what it is today. We will build on that and take it to the next level,” the new Marshal said. “For now, I am the new guy and the Marshal’s Office staff is helping teach me the processes so we have good continuity of leadership in the department. This is uncharted territory for me and
I am in learning mode. The staff and I are ready to move forward,” he said. Harris, an easy-going type with a knack for making people laugh, brings nearly 25 years of experience and knowledge of the Schertz region to his new assignment. And a good bit of that familiarity comes from wearing a lot of hats - literally. “Marshal Mike” - as folks are calling him - belongs to a number of service groups and organizations and thus has lots of headwear. He is a charter member of the Schertz-Cibolo Lions Club and also belongs to
Hats sociation and Blue Knights International Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club.
more comfortable talking to an officer they have met and know.”
As you can see from those last few listings, the Marshal likes to spend time in caves. More on that later.
“It is not the organization but the people you meet and get to know in the organization - that’s what’s important. There is benefit for everyone when people share interests and common goals like serving and improving their community,” Harris said.
Being heavily involved in the Schertz community - in his police department role and through belonging to organizations - has allowed Harris to do “community policing” years before that term was coined.
Law enforcement groups Harris belongs to include: Fraternal Order of Police, Leadership Command College Alumni Association, FBI Law Enforcement Executive Development, Texas Police Association, Guadalupe Valley Peace Officers As-
The new Marshal said “there is value in getting to meet and know lots of people in the community. It improves communication both ways. The public can be extra eyes and ears for law enforcement and individual members of the public are often
the Masonic Grand Lodge of Texas, Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, Shriners International, National Speleological Society, Texas Cave Management Association, Texas Cave Conservancy and Speleological Association.
The best crime prevention is local crime prevention and cont’d on page 34
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Marshal Mike cont’d from page 34 follows the example of the cop on the beat who knew everyone in his area and they knew him. Marshal Harris said he will carry that connection to the local community into his new role as Marshal. Harris is from a military family and grew up in Germany. “My mom is German and we lived there until moving to Texas in 1975,� he said. After working as a payroll clerk for International Business Equipment in the mid to late 1980s, Harris decided to go into law enforcement and served as a reserve police officer for Cibolo in the 1988-89 time period. In 1989 he joined the Schertz PD as a patrol officer and moved up the chain command and was named Assistant Chief of Police in
2008. He served as interim Chief of Police in 2012. His many interests include exploring caves. “I’ve been interested in caves since I was a kid. I like adventures and exploring caves provides that. Many of the cavers I have come to know are scientists and engineers who like the challenge of caving and the discipline it demands.” One of his other interests is photography. “I am a curious person and like to explore different things. I also like to share memories, and photography lets me do that. It helps tell the stories of the places and things I’ve been fortunate to experience,” Harris said as he moved into his new office and his new future.
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Hal Baldwin Scholarship Application Deadline April 30
CIVIC NEWZ YOUR EXCLUSIVE SOURCE FOR NEWS FROM THE CITY OF SCHERTZ
The Hal Baldwin Scholarship encourages young people to consider public service and is named after the Schertz Mayor who gave 30 years of service to the city. As Schertz residents beginning in the 1960s, Mayor Baldwin and wife Barbara saw the city grow from 5,000 residents to more than 30,000 and become San Antonio’s largest suburban city. Baldwin, a retired Air Force Senior Master Sergeant, served Schertz as an Assistant City Manager, civic volunteer, City Councilmember and then Mayor ( for nearly 17 years). In recognition of Baldwin’s long service, the Schertz City Council established his namesake scholarship to encourage high school seniors (public, private, or home-schooled) who are residents of Schertz to consider public service as a career path. The 2014 scholarship will be at least $1,000 and is awarded on a competitive basis. The scholarship may be used for tuition or other fees or expenses for any postsecondary school which is accredited by a state, regional, or national accreditation agency and which may be a traditional 2- or 4-year institution or other educational institution offering courses, degrees, or other training suitable to a public service career. Applications for the Hal Baldwin Scholarship can be downloaded from schertz.com or picked up at the following locations: • Within the Hal Baldwin Municipal Complex, 1400 Schertz Parkway Administration – Bldg. No. 2 City Hall – Bldg. No. 1 Public Affairs Office – Building No. 5 •
Schertz Public Library, 798 Schertz Parkway
Completed applications must be received in the City Manager’s Office (Bldg. No. 2) by 5 p.m. Wednesday, April 30, 2014. Incomplete applications will not be accepted.
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Scagliola Takes Over as Mayor Pro Tem Mayor Michael Carpenter (left) swears in City Councilmember David Scagliola as the new Mayor Pro Tem during the February 4 City Council meeting. The Mayor Pro Tem fills in for the Mayor when he is not able to preside over City Council meetings or other official duties. The position rotates among City Councilmembers every six months.
Community Volunteer Fair April 10 You have been thinking about volunteering, but aren’t sure where to begin. Here is your springboard to finding the right place for your talents. Come to the Community Volunteer Fair from 5:30 to 7:00 PM, Thursday, April 10 in the Schertz Civic Center.
Learn about the resources and services available as a resident of Schertz; become familiar with services different non-profit organizations provide; and gather information on the many City boards and commissions that can use your expertise.
If your group is interested in participating or you have questions about the event, call City Secretary Brenda Dennis at 210619-1000 or 311, or email Brenda at bdennis@schertz.com
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City Manager John Kessel pins a star on Bane’s collar during the ceremony.
Marc Bane Named Assistant Chief of Police Capt. Mark Bain has been promoted to Assistant Chief of Police Chief at the Schertz Police Department effective February 6. He replaces Michael Harris who was promoted to City Marshal. Bain, who has been with the Schertz PD since 1996, was praised by Chief of Police Michael Hansen, City Manager John Kessel, and Mayor Michael Carpenter as the right person for the No. 2 spot in the department.
Longtime City Employees Recognized By Council Three Public Safety employees who have worked for the City of Schertz a combined 65 years were honored at the February 4 City Council meeting. Pictured – From left, Assistant Fire Chief and Fire Marshal Glen Outlaw, Police Dispatch Supervisor Ronnie Rutkowski, and Fire Department Battalion Chief Kirk Timke show the service pins during the Council meeting, where they received a standing ovation. Outlaw and Rutkowski received 20 years pins and Timke got a pin for 25 years of service with the City. City Manager John Kessel gave background information on each honoree and congratulated each for their dedication and hard work in making Schertz a safer community.
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Move Over or Slow Down The Schertz Police Department reminds motorists to help keep the roads safer by complying with the Move Over or Slow Down law related to emergency vehicles on the side of the road. Sec. 545.157. PASSING AUTHORIZED EMERGENCY VEHICLE. (a) On approaching a stationary authorized emergency vehicle using visual signals that meet the requirements of Sections 547.305 and 547.702, or a stationary tow truck using equipment authorized by Section 547.305(d), an operator, unless otherwise directed by a police officer, shall: (1) VACATE THE LANE CLOSEST TO THE EMERGENCY VEHICLE or tow truck when driving on a highway with two or more lanes traveling in the direction of the emergency vehicle or tow truck; or (2) SLOW TO A SPEED NOT TO EXCEED: (a) 20 miles per hour less than the posted speed limit when the posted speed limit is 25 miles per hour or more; or (b) five miles per hour when the posted speed limit is less than 25 miles per hour. (3) A violation of this section is: (a) a misdemeanor punishable under Section 542.401; (b) a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of $500 if the violation results in property damage; or (c) a Class B misdemeanor if the violation results in bodily injury. (4) If conduct constituting an offense under this section also constitutes an offense under another section of this code or the Penal Code, the actor may be prosecuted under either section or under both sections. (5) In this section, “tow truck� means a vehicle that: (a) has been issued a permit under Subchapter C, Chapter 2308, Occupations Code; and (b) is operated by a person licensed under Subchapter D, Chapter 2308, Occupations Code.
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City of Schertz Community Budget Meetings The City of Schertz will hold community meetings in preparation for the City’s FY 2014-15 budget. The first meeting will be held at the Schertz Council Chambers on Wednesday, March 19 at 6:00 PM The second meeting will be held at Schertz United Methodist Church on Thursday, March 27 at 6:00PM. These meetings are to provide information to residents and receive input from the audience. For more information go to schertz.com or call 311 or 210-619-1000.
ANNUAL SPRING CLEAN UP DATES: MARCH 1-16, 2014 Roll up those sleeves! It’s time to clean out the garage, attic and closets. The Annual Spring Clean-up will run March 1-16 with hazardous material dropoff on the weekends of March 8-9 and March 15-16 only. During this time, residents may drop off items not covered under normal collection services. Tree limbs may be dropped off free of charge at 2221 FM 3009 (next to Schertz Funeral Home).
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 March 1 – 16, 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
During the two-week clean up, 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 for a fee (prices determined by Bexar Waste). If you have questions regarding the details, please call Bexar Waste (210-566-5454).
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A maximum of three pickup-truck loads per household or a maximum of two trailer loads per household are permitted. Trailers cannot exceed 16 feet long by 4 feet high. There also is a combined limit of 20 gallons for paints/stains and a combined limit of 20 gallons for automotive/cooking oils.
Residents are able to drop off brush and limbs at 2221 FM 3009, free of charge, DURING THE 2 WEEK CLEAN-UP EVENT ONLY.
1.
What you need to know:
2.
The Spring Clean Up is restricted to Schertz residents only. Waste delivered must be separated by type of material by the resident. Spring 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.
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3.
A current water bill or tax statement and proper identification are required when making a drop-off. Schertz Public Works provides yearround curbside chipping service for brush and tree limbs on Fridays for a fee of $25 per half-hour. To make an appointment for this service, call 210-6191800. For more information, contact Bexar Waste at 210-566-5454 or visit schertz.com
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 Sunday, 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 $35.00 fee at time of drop off. Any questions concerning the Freon tank removal, please contact Bexar Waste.
Hazardous Items/Tires and Drop off Times 1.
2. 3.
HAZARDOUS ITEMS and TIRES may be dropped off ONLY on the weekends of March 8-9 and 15-16, 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 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.
---------------------------------------------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.
CITY CALENDARZ Annual Events:
March 2014
March
Tuesday, 4
Wilenchik Walk for Life 5K; Saturday, March 1
City Council, 6:00 PM Council Chamber
Employee Remembrance Day; Thursday, March 20
Tuesday, 11
April
Absolute Jazz; Saturday, March 19
May
Sweetheart Coronation; Thursday, May 1 Police Officer Memorial Day; TBD
City Council, 6:00 PM Council Chambers
Wednesday, 12
Planning & Zoning, 6:00 PM Council Chambers
Tuesday, 18
National EMS Week/Golf Tournament; May 18-25
City Council, 6:00 PM Council Chambers
Doggie Dash; Saturday, May 10
Monday, 24
July
4th of July Jubilee; Thursday and Friday, July 3-4
September
SchertzFest; Friday and Saturday, September 19-20
October
National Night Out; Tuesday, October 7 Fire Prevention Week; October 5-11 Trunk or Treat; Friday, October 31
November
Hal Baldwin Scholarship Golf Tournament; Friday, November 1 Turkey Trot 5K; Thursday, November 27 Steve Simonson Volunteer of the Year/ Board and Commission Recognition; TBD
December
Festival of Angels; Friday and Saturday, December 5-6
Parks & Recreation Advisory Board, 5:30 PM Bob Andrews Room Board of Adjustments, 6:00 PM Council Chambers
Tuesday, 25
City Council, 6:00 PM Council Chamber
Wednesday, 26
Planning & Zoning, 6:00 PM Council Chambers
Thursday, 27
Economic Development Corporation, 6:00 PM Council Chambers Meeting locations may change, please visit the calendar at www.schertz.com for more information.
#info 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
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PUBLIC AFFAIRS DEPARTMENTS 1400 SCHERTZ PARKWAY SCHERTZ, TEXAS 78154