TO
YOU
OCTOBER 2016
BY
THE
CITY
OF
SCHERTZ,
TEXAS
magazine
BROUGHT
Editor’z Letter
City Council Michael Carpenter Mayor
By Chuck McCollough, Editor
Jim Fowler Councilmember Grumpy Azzoz Councilmember Daryl John Councilmember Cedric Edwards, Sr. Councilmember Robin Thompson Councilmember
Executive Team John Kessel City Manager Brian James Executive Director Dudley Wait Executive Director Kyle Kinateder Executive Director Sarah Gonzalez Assistant to the City Manager
VOLUME 32 ISSUE 10 32 Years and counting...!
PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY Public Affairs Department Linda Klepper Public Affairs Director Chuck McCollough Editor Melissa Geedman Marketing & Communications Specialist Alexis Souza Graphic Design/Art Direction Contributing Staffers Erin Matlock Office Manager Mary Spence Events Manager
Contributing Writers
Chuck McCollough, Brittany Losey, Lucille Sims Thomas, Richard Erickson, Amanda Mercer, Allyson Ortegon, Claudia Pharr, Emily Wallen, Kari Bridges, Jim Webb, Stan Leland, Wendy Kinkade, Taryn McGillivray, Aubrey Parke, Kiko Martinez, Rudy Arispe, Mike Harris, Chris Meek, Tom Lovett, Belle Cheney
Contributing Photographers
Chuck McCollough, Mary Spence, Joshua Nolden, Mary Oakes, Diana Webb, Emily Wallen, Belle Cheney, Mike Harris, Beverly McCollough, Ross Dye, Michael Carpenter, Joe Herczeg, Kari Bridges, Catherine White, Elizabeth Leland, Rudy Ornelas, Samuel Rhodes, Linda Klepper, Amanda Mercer, Calvin True, Elysia Santoya, Alyson Garcia, Erin True, Lisa Green, Kaylie Kennedy, Mike Bowers, Fiona Scoggin, Ethan Bookout, Terrell Mitchell, Cindy Kelleher, Aaron Davis 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 Send queries about articles or photographs to Schertz Magazine at events@schertz.com. For advertising information: Schertz Magazine, 1400 Schertz Parkway, Schertz, Texas 78154; call (210) 619-1630; Fax (210) 6191619; 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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he October issue of Schertz Magazine includes stories that look at the past, present and future. And if you read closely you may see links between the three time periods. As is our tradition with an October Halloween issue, scary things and such will be lurking within the pages of this spooky issue. You may want to start with the story of the Schertz Train Station that operated for nearly 60 years between 1899 and the late 1950s. The depot is long gone but its legacy includes the history of how the railroad and the station helped the Schertz community not only survive but flourish during that time frame.
Two stories that mix the past, present and future are about partnerships the City has with a school district and a military service. You may find yourself nodding in agreement when you read how the City of Schertz and the Schertz-Cibolo-Universal School Independent School District are partnering in various ways to build a better community. Those ways include more bang for the taxpayer buck, more efficiencies in more areas and increased innovation and learning from each other. A premier City and premier school district pooling their talents is bound to produce a premier quality of life.
FEATUREZ
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Schertz Train Station
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Train a Dog, Save a Warrior
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CASA Making a Difference
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SCUC Partnership
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435th FTS Part of Community
DEPARTMENTZ
The 435th FTS helps turn young men into tomorrow’s fighter pilots and the guardians of the nation’s safety. Through the Honorary Commander program the City helps those young pilots feel like a part of the community family and that the community appreciates them. Speaking of the military, don’t miss the story of Sam the dog who was adopted from the Schertz Animal Adoption center by a grateful veteran.
The Schertz Animal Services is working with a group called TADSAW (Train a Dog Save a Warrior) to train former shelter dogs to become trained medical alert service dogs for military veterans surviving PTSD. Luis Torres, a Vietnam veteran, was the first person to receive a military service dog that came from the Schertz facility. He has bonded with Sam, and has now made the dog and integral part of his life. Also look for stories on the CASA organization that helps youngsters, Fire Prevention Month, the special election section, the annual fall clean up, and a nearby pumpkin patch. All that and more in Your Source For Hometown News Schertz Magazine.
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TALK OF THE TOWNZ Updatez Visionz / Chamber
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CIVIC NEWZ Updatez Voting Section
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CALENDARZ
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COVER
The cover represents what a steam engine coming into the Schertz Train Station on a scary and stormy Halloween night in the 1930s might look like. Photo courtesy of Union Pacific. schertzmagazine.com
BROU GHT
OCTO
TO
YOU
BY
THE
CITY
OF
SCHE RTZ,
BER 2 016
OCTOBER 2016
7
TEXA S
magazine
Next enjoy reading about the City and the legendary 435th Fighter Training Squadron at JBSA-Randolph. The 435th was born in WW II and has a 73 year legacy of service, almost as long as the 85-year JBSARandolph.
TALKOF THE
TOWNZ
Pumpkin Patch Promises Family Fun One of the largest and most entertaining Pumpkin Patches in South Texas is open from 9:00 AM to sundown every day and running through the end of October at Bracken United Methodist Church located just east of FM 3009 on FM 2252. This is the 15th year for this fun-filled event that features massive displays of thousands of pumpkins. Special displays of costumed scarecrows and fantasy characters are arranged for taking that perfect picture of
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your family amid the festival of fall colors. In the evenings and on weekends there are hayrides and the popular Pumpkin Patch Express Train rides for the children. During the mornings, school and special children’s groups from four counties celebrate a day at the Bracken Pumpkin Patch. They participate in special entertainment centers where they paint pumpkins, sing songs, hear stories, play games and everyone goes home with a pumpkin.
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The patch has pumpkins from baseball size to monsters that will take two people to carry. There will be decorated and painted pumpkins and colorful gourds of every size and description. Prices for the pumpkins start as low as fifty cents. Everyone in the community is invited to come out and enjoy the Pumpkin Patch festivities. Dress the children in Halloween costumes and take fabulous pictures of them enjoying their day in a wondrous setting of seemingly endless pumpkins.
The Pumpkin Patch will be open from 9:00 AM until dusk seven days a week. The Church is located at 20377 FM 2252 located just a mile and a half northeast of the intersection at FM 3009. FM 2252 is the extension of Nacogdoches Road and the Bracken Pumpkin Patch is only about five and a half miles outside Northeast Loop 1604 at Rolling Oaks Mall. For more information or directions, call Bracken UMC at 830-606-6717 or visit bracken-umc.org.
RACAP Taking Applications for 2016 Holiday Programs
Senior Center Boogie Night Event Big Hit Dozens of senior citizens and their families and friends turned back the clock and boogied into the night during the 4th Annual Schertz Area Senior Center Gala August 19th. “The Boogie Disco Dinner Dance” lived up to its billing with lots of people dressed in 1970s and 1980s attire and dancing to music from those two crazy pop culture decades. Seniors were “cutting a rug” (an old term for dancing) right and left acting like they were in their 20s and 30s again. Senior Center Director Cathy Flocke said the fun was overflowing and
everyone had a blast with the retro format as well and the delicious dinner. Flocke said the Schertz community, including a number of businesses, helped make the event a big success. The sponsors included The Legacy at Forest Ridge, Schertz Bank & Trust, Blue Bonnet Palace, A Moment In Time, 3009 Restaurant & Bar, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Schertz Funeral Home, Schertz Parkway Physical Therapy, City of Schertz, City of Cibolo and City of Selma.
The Randolph Area Christian Assistance Program (RACAP) is accepting applications for the Thanksgiving/Christmas holiday assistance program. Applications will be accepted through October 28, 2016 for Thanksgiving and the Christmas program deadline is November 17, 2016. Applications will be accepted from families in need of help for the holidays because of limited or no income, who are at or below the Federal Poverty Guidelines. RACAP welcomes organizations, businesses, groups, or individuals who would like to participate by “adopting” families or donating food and/or money. Anyone interested in sponsoring a family for Thanksgiving and/or Christmas should submit their sponsorship application no later than October 28, 2016. To obtain a Sponsor Application send an email to racapholidayprog@att.net. This help is needed and much appreciated by those it serves. Donations may be dropped off at the RACAP office or mailed to 307 Pfeil St, Schertz TX 78154. Applicants for assistance must live in one of the following ZIP Codes: 78108, 78109, 78124, 78132, 78148, 78154, 78247, 78233 (Live Oak only), and 78266. Those in need of assistance may contact RACAP at 307 Pfeil, Schertz, Monday - Friday, 1:00-3:00 PM or call 210-658-1613 between those times.
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Fall is a time for festivals, festive events and fun. Below is a list of some of the activities happening in our community this autumn. OLPH Annual Autumn Festival October 16
Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church will hold its Fall Festival on Sunday, October 16. The church is located at IH-35 N exit 174A and Evans Road. The event will include OLPH priests on a dunking booth, arts and crafts, kid games, a pumpkin patch, carnival rides, food booth, a live auction of handmade items, and a silent auction. Entertainment will include Patsy Torres and Blue Haven. For more information call Elaine Havlic at 210-324-8483 or write to whavlic@satx.rr.com
Bracken UMC Fall Festival October 29
Bracken United Methodist Church will hold its Fall Festival on Saturday, October 29 at its 20377 FM 2252 location. The event will include games for preschool and school age children, a hay ride, train ride bounce house, petting zoo, pony rides, free food, fundraiser concessions, live music and a silent auction. For more information call 830-6066717 or visit www.bracken-umc.org
New Covenant Holding Annual Festival October 31
Covenant Christian Children’s Homes of Texas will hold its annual Fall Festival on October 31, 2016, 6:30-8:30pm at New Covenant Family Church, 814 Main Street in Schertz. The festival is designed as an alternative to a traditional Halloween celebration and will include carnival style games, food and entertainment. It is slated to be an exciting family event. Each attendee will have lots of fun as they participate in a variety of games to receive candy, prizes and much more. For more information call 210-2321084.
Schertz UMC Halloween Festival October 31
Schertz United Methodist Church will hold its 16th annual Halloween Festival on October 31, 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM. The church is located at 3460 Roy Richard Dr. (FM 3009). The festival will include games, food, sodas, family-friendly atmosphere, safe environment, and candy. Come dressed in costume and play carnival type games appropriate for all ages. Come enjoy free hotdogs, soft drinks, popcorn, and snow cones. For more information call 210-658-3202.
Schertz Area Senior Center Holiday Craft Show November 18 A Holiday Craft Show will be happening on November 18 from 9:00 am to 4:00 PM. Come get a start on your holiday shopping. The center is located at 608 Schertz Parkway, adjacent to the Schertz Public Library. For more information call the Senior Center at 210-619-1974.
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Cleveland
Eric Haugen took Schertz Magazine with him on a trip to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, Ohio
Utah
Dustin Acklen took Schertz Magazine with him on a trip to Moab, Utah
Acapulco
Hector and Alicia Bruno took Schertz Magazine with them on vacation to Acapulco Mexico.
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Schertz Magazine All Over The Map The map to the left shows just some of the places Schertz Magazine has traveled! Take your copy of Schertz Magazine when you travel and take a high-resolution 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.
Norway
Randy and Kristin Housley and Linda Bauer took Schertz Magazine to Royal Palace in Oslo, Norway.
Statue of Liberty
Manisha Goyal took Schertz Magazine along with her on a trip to the Statue of Liberty.
Key West
Aurelio and Nanette Franco took Schertz Magazine with them to Key West.
Rome
Rebecca Allen and her daughter Rozilyn Lewis took Schertz Magazine with them on a visit to Rome and the Coliseum. schertzmagazine.com
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Volunteers Needed For Community Clean Up The City of Schertz and Love Where You Live are teaming up to sponsor a one day community clean up on Saturday, October 22 at the Mobile Villa neighborhood. The cleanup will include yard work, tree trimming and minor maintenance for homes. The project is looking for volunteers – individuals and groups – to work in this effort to help neighbors who may not be able to help themselves. For more information call 210-326-6017 or 210-619-1671. schertzmagazine.com
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Golf Classic Sponsors Naming Sponsor For the 4th year in a row, Caterpillar Inc. is the Naming Sponsor of our Golf Classic. They are the leader in building the world’s infrastructure and enabling progress for millions of people around the globe. For more than 90 years, Caterpillar Inc. has been making sustainable progress possible and driving positive change on every continent. Our thanks to Caterpillar Inc. for investing in our youth, community and event!
Breakfast Sponsor Named after a tree indigenous to the area, Retama Park is an entertainment destination to place a bet, grab a bite or just hang out and enjoy the beauty and excitement of Class 1 Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse racing. Retama Park offers live racing on Fridays and Saturdays with Thoroughbred racing from September 5 through November 29, plus year-round simulcasting.
For a complete list of events, visit The Chamber’s Events Calendar: www.thechamber.info/events.
PROVIDENCE COMMUNITY CHURCH
Proclaiming the Gospel, Embracing the Doctrines of Grace
Proclaiming the Gospel, Embracing the Doctrines of Grace
Join Us this Sunday Sunday School: 9:30 am | Worship Service: 11:00 Currently Meeting at the Schertz Civic Center: 1400 Schertz Pkwy, Building #5 Schertz, TX 78154 210-858-8503 | pcc_schertz@yahoo.com
www.pcc-schertz.com A reformed church and member of the SBC.
October Library Happenings Paws to Read
Read to a real dog at the library. Cheyenne and her handler, Rose, visit the library on the second Saturday of the month to listen to children read stories to them. Come for one-on-one sessions. This program builds confidence and is fun for beginning readers, ages 4-8. Registration is required. Visit the Children’s Information Desk at the Schertz Public Library to reserve your spot today. Cheyenne’s next visit is Saturday, October 8, 12:302:00pm.
Star Wars Reads Day
Let’s celebrate all things Star Wars with fun activities, treats, and crafts. Costumes encouraged. Join us at the Schertz Public Library in the Children’s Program Room on October 8, 2016 from 3-5pm.
Open Mic Poetry & Song
Thursday, October 20th at 6:30 pm will be our next open mic poetry and song event. All local poets and songwriters are invited to share their talents with the community. Anyone interested in hearing local talent please join us.
Pumpkin Painting
We’ll provide the paint and the space to get messy; you bring a pumpkin and your artistic talent. Make your pumpkin funny, spooky, sad, mad or glad. Join us at the Schertz Public Library in the Children’s Program Room on October 25, 2016 from 6-7:30pm.
Library Bookstore Holding Autumn Book Sale October 21-22 The Read Before Book Store in the Schertz Public Library will hold its Library Autumn Book Sale in the Children’s Area on Friday, October 21, from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, and Saturday, October 22, from noon to 5:00 pm. Read Before Book Store will also be open for browsing of its regular inventory and Vintage collection.
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Adult Computer Classes: Open Lab
The library offers computer/ technology assistance to adults and seniors every Wednesday and Thursday afternoon from 12-1pm. These classes are taught in an open lab format, so that each student gets oneon-one help. Students are encouraged to bring their laptops, tablets, e-readers, or cell phones to class. Preregistration is required as space is limited. Registration is available in person, over the phone (210) 619-1700, or online at schertzlibrary.org/calendar
History in the Making
Clemens Tennis Team Proves Unicorns Don’t Exist By Belle Cheney After a summer full of team bonding and arduous practices, Clemens’ tennis team conquered ten-time state champions, New Braunfels Unicorns, on August 30 at Clemens. Varsity player Noah Deahl said the team won because, “We have a connection off court that translates on court.” Clemens’ tennis players can be seen during every match cheering for their teammates’ success and encouraging them in their losses. “When you are down in a game and it’s the winning match, the team really comes together. I think that’s what really matters in the end,” team member Alina Jaffer said. The group’s success may start with team dinners, but it’s not all fun and games preparing to win against a team that hasn’t been beaten in ten years. Coach Jason Schraub said, “This team trains unlike any other… We do CrossFit from
seventh all the way through twelfth grade.” Clemens’ team really starts “pumping iron” on “Workout Wednesday’s.” Tennis parking lots are covered in exercise equipment, and the team goes through a series of mentally and physically brutal drills that test speed, agility, endurance, and coordination. Tennis player Kat Shumaker said they won against the Unicorns because, “We knew what we were up against, so we prepared specifically for New Braunfels team’s playing style.” This preparation included different strokes, more volleys, and a huge focus on winning the doubles matches. Training paid off on August 30 when, for the first time in history, Clemens’ tennis team triumphed over the New Braunfels’ Unicorns. The upcoming tennis schedule can be viewed at http:// www.scuc.txed.net/SamuelClemens. cfm?subpage=9520 schertzmagazine.com
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Blood, Sweat, and Tears
District Sports Teams Ready For The Season By Belle Cheney Clemens and Steele High School’s sports teams are putting their efforts into making this fall a successful season by building off last year’s achievements through demanding practices.
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school, Clemens, finished 11-3 as the State Quarter Finalist. The rivals will face off at the annual Battle of 3009 on Nov. 4th.
Steele’s football coach Scott Lehnhoff said, “Our hopes will always be to win a state championship.”
“[Football] is about trusting the process and putting in the work to get better on and off the field in everything we do,” said Coach Jared Johnston from Clemens.
Steele came close to State last year, finishing 14-1 as back to back 6A Region 4 champions. Their brother-
Two players putting in “oldfashioned elbow grease” are Clemens QB Frank Harris, last year’s district MVP, and
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Xavier Martin, who was awarded the Kens 5 Player of the Week. More on the “players to watch” list are Steele’s CJ Williams(WR), Brenden Brady(RB), Travell Lumpkin(RB), Joshua Croslen(DT), JC Ivory(LB), Jaden Jackson(LB), and Caden Sterns(S). Clemens top liners are Cameron Baker(RB), Tommy Bush(R), Zach Didomenico(LB), Noah Taylor(K), Savion Jenkins (DT), and Darius
VanDyke(S). In addition to football, the high schools have girls and boys basketball, cross country, tennis, and golf teams that are competing this fall. Clemens girls basketball coach, John Ince said, “It will be a very exciting season watching these [players] compete in arguably one of the toughest districts in the state.”
Last year the Steele girls team finished #3 in the state, and the boys advanced to the state semi-finals. Clemens boys also made it to the state semi-finals, with the girls falling just short of the state competitions. They hope to make a spectacular comeback. Volleyball teams from both schools have players of note, including Steele’s Jada Gardner and Stephanie Grijalva; and Alexis Popham and Madyson Garcia from Clemens. Cross country, tennis, and golf have started out a spectacular season as well, and are winning matches for both schools. To find a complete schedule of all the coming sports events go to www.r1s.mobi
33rd National Night Out October 4 in Schertz South Texas will celebrate National Night Out on Tuesday, October 4, 2015 from 6:00-8:30 PM. Schertz residents and neighborhoods can register with the Schertz Police Department.This can be done by contacting Officer Helen Lafitte at (210) 619-1264 or by email at hlafitte@schertz.com. NNO 2015 involved 38.3 million people in 15,725 communities from all 50 states, U.S. territories, Canadian cities, and military bases worldwide. As Schertz continues to grow, the event does as well. Last year, members of City Council and Police Personnel visited nearly 30 neighborhoods and/or block parties.
NNO, a yearlong community building campaign, is designed to: (1) heighten crime prevention awareness 2) generate support for and participation in local anti-crime programs (3) strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships (4) send a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back. Along with the traditional outside lights and front porch vigils, most cities and towns celebrate National Night Out with a variety of special citywide and neighborhood events such as block parties, cookouts, parades, festivals, visits from local officials and law enforcement, safety fairs, and youth events.
For more information, visit the National Night Out website at www.natw.org. schertzmagazine.com
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FEATUREZ
Schertz Train Station
Gateway To Everywhere Else By Chuck McCollough
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n a dark and stormy Halloween night many years ago a metal monster belching smoke and steam rolled into Schertz as if on cue for the annual night of ghosts and ghouls. The location was the Schertz Train Station at the intersection of First Street and what is now FM 78.
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From the early 1900s to sometime around 1960 the railroad depot was an iconic transportation hub for people in the golden age of train travel. Steam was the main power source for trains into the 1930s when railroad companies began switching to diesel engines, according to the Texas Transportation Museum in San Antonio. In his book, The Railroads of San Antonio and South Central Texas, TTM Manager Hugh Hemphill said many small Texas communities sprung up around water tanks (used by the trains) along the rail lines. Many of those communities wanted a depot including Schertz. Around 1899 the Schertz community was able to land one of the coveted depots and it opened in the early 1900s. The Schertz station became part of a network of depots providing train service from New Orleans to Houston to San Antonio to El Paso and on to Los Angeles and back. The Schertz Train Depot was a busy place for a number of years but as America and Texas changed into automobile-dominated societies the train station became less and less necessary, said Hemphill. Dean Weirtz with the Schertz Historical Preservation Committee, along with others, did research on the Schertz Train Station and were able to provide interesting facts pertaining to the depot. On train route schedules the Schertz depot was listed as 557 because that was how many miles it was from New Orleans. In the 15-year period between 1941 and 1956 the Schertz depot went from three daily trains in each direction (east and west) making flag stops (scheduled stops) to only one
train in each direction. Sometime between 1956 and 1960 trains no longer stopped. The station was later eventually removed. “The Schertz Train Depot is of historic importance because of the role it played in the survival and prosperity of the town in its early days,” Weirtz said. “There were many start-up communities along the railroad’s route but most of those without a train depot were destined to a short life span. The Schertz Train Depot brought with it new opportunities for personal travel, business connections, improved mail delivery, and much improved commercial trade and shipment opportunities,” he said.
The Texas Transportation Museum in northeast San Antonio has archived information on the Schertz Train Station and other depots in this area and is combining trains and Halloween festivities in October for a Spook-Track-Ula fun event. For more information about railroads in South Texas including Schertz click on www.txtransportationmuseum.org
Of all transportation modes, trains have a special place in the history, the lore and the collective imagination of America. The Schertz Train Station is long gone but for some longtime residents in their 70s and older it remains a link to a nostalgic era when travel by rail was an adventure to be shared with others and a means to go to everywhere else. The train tracks are still in Schertz and are a reminder of station and its place in the community’s history.
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FEATUREZ
Train A Dog, Save A Warrior By Lucille Sims Thomas
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Luis Torres and his TADSAW dog Sam. OCTOBER 2016
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art Sherwood, co-founder and program director of TADSAW (Train a Dog Save a Warrior), said the organization has a dual purpose mission. “We try to save two lives at the same time — that of the shelter dog and also the veteran,” he said about TADSAW, which uses mostly shelter animals to become trained medical alert service dogs for military veterans surviving with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other invisible wounds of war. The Schertz Animal Adoption Center recently joined the TADSAW effort and had a quick response. Sam, a German Shepherd at the shelter, found his calling as a service dog for a veteran and is now training to assist him. Colette Dorrell has been an animal lover all of her life and started working for the Schertz Animal Adoption Center a few months ago. She was given the task of finding a program that the center could work with to save the lives of some of the dogs who come to the shelter after being abandoned or picked up off of the streets. She found out about the TADSAW program, loved what they do and decided this was an organization the Schertz Animal Adoption Center could partner with to benefit both dogs and military veterans. She was put in touch with Jody Harpel, one of TADSAW’s trainers, who worked with her to find the first suitable dog and his veteran. “We knew Sam was very quiet and very patient. He just had a very sweet demeanor — not too energetic or anything like that. And he already had some training,” Dorrell said about the dog they eventually matched with a veteran. Harpel came to the shelter and
checked some of the dogs for demeanor and suitability for TADSAW and also really liked Sam. She then started the process of matching him with a military veteran in need of a service dog. Sam was the shelter’s first successful adoption by TADSAW of one of its dogs but Dorrell is hoping there will be many more. Harpel trains the dogs and also works with the military veteran to train him on how to train his dog. She evaluates the veterans and the dogs to see which dog will make a good match to which veteran. She can’t say enough good things about the program and its mission and said she loves being a part of the organization. “When I found TADSAW, I said this is it – this is my program. It’s amazing how many people have gotten help from this program,” Harpel said. She emphasizes how important it is to match the right dog with the right veteran so that both are happy. She never brings the dog with her the first time she meets a military veteran because she said emotions take over and the potential dog owner may want to take the dog too quickly. Before I give them a dog, I have to evaluate them – and then I bring them to meet the dog,” she said. TADSAW is a nonprofit organization that was started in 2012 after Sherwood decided to take the concept being used to provide therapy dogs in nursing homes and applied it to helping military veterans. There is no cost to the
veteran to get a service dog and the concept of training them to train their dog means the veteran can train another service dog when they need one. Dogs must be 14 months to five years of age to qualify for the program. It takes 16 to 25 weeks to train the service dog team. During this time the veteran is training the dog for whatever task they might need — finding keys, assistance going up and down stairs, assistance finding curbs if there are stability issues, locating their vehicle, picking up objects, etc. “The training together is the basis of the program and it helps them bond as a team and that’s why the veteran is very much an integral part of this program in training the dog,” Sherwood said. In the military it takes 16-25 weeks to train a recruit and for that recruit to learn a military occupational specialty. TADSAW’s concept duplicates what the military does by training a veteran to train their dog. “So basically we’re just duplicating what the military has shown to be a very successful type of training program,” Sherwood said. continued on page 30 schertzmagazine.com
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FEATUREZ Train a Dog, Save a Warrior cont’d from page 29
2016 SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2016
Sports Cards and Collectibles Community Center
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2016
Meet the Candidates Schertz Civic Center
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2016
Kids 1st Aid Training Class Schertz Civic Center
About 75 veterans enter the program each month to start training and this is the fourth year that they have had a least 100 teams be accredited across the country, according to Sherwood. Luis Torres, a Vietnam veteran, was the first person to receive a military service dog that came from the Schertz Animal Adoption Center. He has bonded with his dog, Sam, and has now made him an integral part of his life. “Sam and I are doing great. We go to training on Tuesdays and Fridays to teach him what to do and how to work with me. It’s a short period but I’ve learned a lot with my dog,” Torres said. Luis said he enjoys taking care of Sam and that the dog
is helping him with his PTSD. “I wish that some of the other veterans would take the opportunity to do the same thing that I did. There is a dog out there that can help you with the PTSD. When I was alone here at home, I was kind of falling apart. But now that I’ve got my dog — that does not happen anymore. I have something to look forward to everyday.” Harpel said cases like Luis Torres motivate and inspire those at the Schertz shelter. “We are looking forward to working with more veterans in the future,” she said, adding that they continually watch for dogs coming into the shelter that might be a good fit for TADSAW. Visit the website at TADSAW. org for more information or to donate to the organization.
CASA Making Difference in Childrens’ Lives By Kari Bridges
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ince 1986, Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Central Texas has been recruiting and training volunteers, or advocates, to evaluate and be an independent voice in court for abused or neglected children who are under State care. Located in New Braunfels and San Marcos, CASA of Central Texas is a non-profit 501 (c)(3) organization which is affiliated with the National CASA volunteer program
and serves children from birth to 17 years of age who reside in Caldwell, Comal, Guadalupe and Hays Counties. Its mission is to advocate for abused and neglected children in the court system by recruiting, training and supporting community volunteers. Currently, CASA of Central Texas is actively seeking volunteers and prospective board members from all socioeconomic and ethnic backgrounds who reside in Comal and Guadalupe Counties. continued on page 32
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FEATUREZ CASA Making Difference in Childrens' Lives cont’d from page 31 The role of the volunteer, or advocate, is to be a factfinder for the judge, to represent and speak for the best interest of the child in court, and act as a “watch dog” for the child during the life of the case ensuring the child’s needs are met and the case is resolved swiftly and appropriately – allowing the court to make better informed decisions. To become a CASA of Central Texas volunteer, candidates must successfully complete an initial, free 44-hour, 6 week training program that includes classroom sessions, homework and 6 hours of court observations prior to being sworn in by a judge. Criteria includes a commitment of approximately 10-15 hours/month for at least 12 months; you must be at least 21 years of age; successfully pass screening, background checks and fingerprint requirements; and complete 12 hours of continuing education per year and be able to keep information confidential and work within established program guidelines. Volunteers are provided an overview of courtroom procedure from judges, lawyers and caseworkers. In addition, they are educated about specific topics ranging from symptoms
and effects of abuse and neglect to early childhood development and cultural diversity. Upon completion of the course, volunteers are carefully matched to an appropriate case based on the preferences of the volunteer in regard to location, age of children and a volunteer’s strength and weaknesses. “Our biggest goal is to serve 100% of the children. In order to accomplish this we would need to have a CASA volunteer, or advocate, for every child who is in state care. There are a low number of advocates in Guadalupe County and that means fewer children have CASA volunteers while they are in court. Trained CASA volunteers are appointed by the judge to advocate for the best interest of the child and watch out for them as they go through the chaotic court system,” explained Eloise Hudson, Community Relations Coordinator at CASA of Central Texas. “As a local CASA program we work within our own community but can take advantage of the national program and state CASA programs and resources that are available such as training curriculum, audit files and volunteer files that keep us accountable,” Hudson explained.
CASA of Central Texas volunteers research the individual cases and keep the child welfare system alert of the child or children’s needs. CASA then makes recommendations on actions needed to protect the children, to provide for their medical, educational and therapeutic care and works to find safe and permanent homes for the children. Volunteers serve on one case at a time and research case records and interview each person involved in a child’s life and monitor the progress of the child and family, advocating for the child’s current and future needs in court, in school and in agency meetings. “We appoint volunteers to one case (one child or
sibling group) at a time so they aren’t overwhelmed and have to drop off the case. We want to have a constant adult for not only the child, but when they need someone to provide additional information for the duration of the case,” Hudson said. Dorothy Walker is a CASA’s volunteer living in Guadalupe County who was sworn into CASA in 2014. “What I’ve learned as a CASA volunteer is how important a role CASA plays in the lives of our children. We are their confidants, friends and sometimes sole defenders for their rights and their voice. The time you spend and sacrifices you make on your time is well worth the difference you will make in
our children’s lives and wellbeing.” “In the State of Texas everyone is mandated by law to report suspected child abuse or neglect. A person can be held criminally responsible if they know a child is being abused and they did not report it. The best way to report is to go online or make a phone call that goes to the state in-take line to people who are responsible for reporting abuse or neglect,”
explained Hudson. Report suspected abuse by phoning 1-800-252-5400 or www. txabusehotline.org Opportunities to participate in CASA of Central Texas fundraising and special events are available throughout the year at www.casacentex.org. Beginning November 1st people who would like to be a “Secret Santa” to a CASA of Central Texas child will be able to download a list of children who will benefit from their annual holiday toy campaign. CASA is a national volunteer movement founded in 1977. To volunteer, or inquire about the availability of board positions, email info@casacentex.org or visit www.casacentex.org for more information.
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FEATUREZ
Schertz-SCUC Partnership Enriches Community By Brittany Losey
T
he City of Schertz and the Schertz-CiboloUniversal City ISD share a lot more than a common name; They share customers, challenges, opportunities, a common vision and a desire to have the highest quality community service. In fact, one of the best definitions of “community” in these parts is the growing alliance between the City and school district. “For years the school district, the board of trustees, did not have much of a relationship with the
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city councils of Schertz, Cibolo, or Universal City,” SCUC School Board president Gary Inmon said. “We’ve had times in the past where board members probably couldn’t even tell you the name of city council members and vice versa.” The City and SCUC have always worked together to some extent, and the growth each entity faces makes collaboration even more sensible in the upcoming years. They are partnering and cooperating in innovative ways that save money and time, increase efficiency and enhance the community.
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“In the past few years, we’ve made a concerted effort as part of our community outreach… to develop better relationships and start working together,” Inmon said. “I don’t think citizens see distinct lines between the school district and the city. I think they pretty much expect us to work together.” One of the leading examples of that cooperation is the up and coming Schertz Aquatic Center (aka Natatorium) whose construction should be concluding by the end of 2016. SCUC swimmers and Schertz residents can look forward to sharing the new
facility sometime in early spring 2017, but they would not have this opportunity without the partnership of the City and school district. In addition to the bond that was approved, $1.65 million dollars was contributed from SCUCISD for construction of the pool. Another key partnership that has evolved in the past several years is the School Resource Officer (SRO) program. Prior to this union, SCUC had its own police force – until administrators recognized a more efficient way to keep its students safe.
is a better design for new elementary schools that channels traffic coming into the campus through another exit instead back on the same street.
“Instead of us having a police force, it made a lot more sense to contract with the City of Cibolo for officers on the Dobie/ Steele side of the district and then the City of Schertz Police department for the Corbett/Clemens side of the school district,” SCUC superintendent Dr. Greg Gibson said. “Our core competency is educating children. Their core competency is policing, amongst other things; This allows us to create a partnership. They do policing a lot more efficiently than we would be able to do policing because they have lots of resources, which we wouldn’t have.” Schertz City Manager John Kessel said cooperation between the City and SCUC is a great idea for many reasons. “Schertz and SCUC represent the same constituents, are government agencies and both work to improve the quality of the community. Those three things drive all the motivation for us to work together.”
The shared constituents want the best efficiency for their tax dollar and the most bang for the least buck, Kessel said. And constituents know the City and school district partnering is an excellent way to achieve the highquality service they demand. “That kind of quality doesn’t happen by accident and it requires a common vision and alignment of goals in that vision between the two partners,” Kessel said. In addition to the partnerships already mentioned, like the Schertz Aquatic Center and the Police SRO program, the City Manager mentioned another that benefits many in the community before and after school. The City and SCUC did some brainstorming about the issue of backed up traffic at elementary schools as parents drop off and pick up their children. The backed up traffic routinely caused traffic in neighborhoods lasting 30 to 45 minutes. The result of that collaborative thinking
Kessel said the working relationship between the two entities continues to grow and create new opportunities and dividends. One such example is the South Texas Excellence Partnership (STEP) where the elected and staff leadership of the City and SCUC meet and develop best practices and process improvement that can work at every level of both organizations.
One of the best results of the STEP initiative is staff development in both organizations where new leadership is emerging, encouraged to step up and address common challenges and opportunities “We are always learning from each other and finding new and better ways to partner and make our community better,” Kessel said. Other STEP partners include the City of Cibolo, Northeast Lakeview College, and Education Service Center Region 20.
FEATUREZ
435th FTS Part of Community Family By Chuck McCollough
T
he 435th Fighter Training Squadron (FTS) at JBSARandolph has a storied history that began 73 years ago in World War II and continues to this day.
Constituted as the 435th Fighter Squadron on October 12, 1943, and activated two days later, the Deadly Black Eagles have served from Iceland to South Vietnam and Thailand and just about everywhere in between. The squadron moved to Randolph AFB in 1998 and returned in 2007.
Schertz on most days but their skill on the ground may not be so obvious. Now it is changing thanks to a special relationship between the City of Schertz and the 435th. Under the Honorary Commander program, a program that pairs
Today the squadron’s precision flying can be seen in the sky above
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local leaders with Air Force leaders, members of the 435th FTS have been involved in projects throughout the City these last two years and have been welcomed into the local community family of businesses, organizations and residents.
When Lt. Col. Jason Earley took over as commander for the 435th this past April, he wanted to continue the community involvement in Schertz, so the City and squadron got together to map out some projects. In May squadron members worked with the City’s Parks Department to spruce up the Veterans Memorial Plaza, just in time for Memorial Day. Squadron members pulled weeds, trimmed bushes and racked the landscaping at the Memorial Plaza while Parks Department staffers did other beautification work. Afterward the squadron
members were treated to a lunch and comradery with City staff. In June the 435th members went to the Schertz Area Senior Center to serve the seniors lunch while also joining them for a nice meal and a game of bingo afterward. City officials and Center staff said the seniors talked often about last year’s visit by squadron members and anxiously looked forward to seeing them again. The joy of the visit was obvious on both sides of the age divide as seniors interacted with the young pilots - most of whom are the age of the seniors’ grandchildren. In fact, the expressions worn by the squadron members reminded the seniors they of their parents and grandparents and brought memories of home and family.
they are part of the 435th is also a win-win goal, said City Manager John Kessel, who is the current 435th Honorary Commander. “When Joint Base San Antonio (JBSA) was created to bring all commands under one authority a lot of the baseto-local city connection moved down to San Antonio.” Kessel said the Air Force and JBSA realized that the community connection between a base like Randolph and a neighboring city like Schertz is very important especially to the morale of service members and military families living in those communities. The reinstatement of the Honorary Commander program allows for a strengthening of the ties between the community and nearby military installation.
“When we see one of the T-38’s flying overhead we know it is flown by somebody. Our partnership with the 435th and getting to know the pilots means the next plane we see might be piloted by Jason or one of the other squadron members we did projects with and ate lunch with,” Kessel explained. He said the 435th produces two classes of fighter pilots each year and they are then deployed to
a different community. Kessel said it is important that squadron members have a sense of belonging and community for the cities around JBSARandolph and take it where they are going. Col. Earley couldn’t agree more. “The support the 435th has received from Schertz is fantastic”, he emphasized. “If San Antonio is ‘Military City USA,’ then Schertz must be Main Street.”
In July Col. Earley and his family were part of the City’s Fourth of July Jubilee festivities - they took part in the Jubilee’s 5K run and he and his family were recognized and honored at the opening ceremony. The emphasis on making the squadron members feel like family and having the community feel like schertzmagazine.com
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CIVIC NEWZ City Planning Department staff and City officials pose with the Excellence Award. From left are: Channary Gould, Planner; Emily Grobe, Planner; Lesa Wood, Director of Planning & Community Development; Mayor Michael Carpenter; Bryce Cox, Senior Planner; City Manager John Kessel.
City Planning & Community Development Department Honored The City of Schertz Planning & Community Development department has received the Texas Chapter of the American Planning Association Certificate of Achievement for 2016. The Certificate of Achievement for Planning Excellence is awarded annually to municipalities throughout the state as a recognition of the professional planning standards demonstrated
by the planning staff and the support exhibited by City Council and Planning & Zoning Commission. Schertz has met the Texas Chapter’s goals of increasing awareness of professional planning, met specific professional certification requirements, enhanced neighborhood and citizen recognition of planning efforts, encouraged the funding of professional
training for commissioners and staff, and aided in economic development and the community image. There are typically only 20 to 30 cities in all of Texas that receive this award. The City of Schertz Planning Department has been awarded this recognition consecutively for the last three years (2014-2016).
The spraying is done at dusk or dawn in areas where there is a concentration of mosquitoes like near a water source.
Do not be alarmed if you see a truck spraying in your area; this is simply an effort to prevent mosquitos from breeding.
City of Schertz Doing Mosquito Spraying The Schertz Public Works Department and Environmental Health division of the Marshal’s Office are teaming up to control the mosquito population in the community.
YOUR EXCLUSIVE SOURCE FOR NEWS FROM THE CITY OF SCHERTZ
CIVIC NEWZ
Voter Information From Election Officials During the November 8 General Election, voters need to be aware that if they choose to vote a ‘straight-ticket’ or ‘straight-party vote’, this will NOT automatically include the City of Schertz candidates for City Council. Voters will need to scroll down the ballot to locate the Schertz City Council candidates and mark their selections for Mayor and Councilmembers. For more information contact your county election administrator. NOTE: Guadalupe County is looking for individuals interested in working as election judges and election clerks in the upcoming November 8 General Election. Interested persons should call Lisa Adam at 830-3036363.
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City Council Ballot Information The following City Council candidates will appear on the City of Schertz election ballot for the Tuesday, November 8, 2016 Election: MAYOR Michael R. Carpenter Grumpy Azzoz
PLACE 7 Bert Crawford Eric Beam
PLACE 1 Mark Davis Carl Douglas
CITY OF SCHERTZ SPECIAL ELECTION OF OFFICIALS
PLACE 2 Ralph Gutierrez Glen Outlaw
PLACE 3 David Scagliola Scott Larson
PLACE 6 Angelina Kiser Michael H. Dahle
Are You Ready for the
November 8 Election?
SPECIAL SECTION NOTICE OF GENERAL & SPECIAL ELECTION To the registered voters of the City of Schertz: Notice is hereby given that the polling places listed below will be open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., November 8, 2016, for voting in the general and special election to elect Councilmembers for Place 1, Place 2, Mayor, Place 6, Place 7 and Place 3 , Locations of Early Voting Polling Places: Early voting by personal appearance will be conducted as listed below: Applications for ballot by mail shall be mailed to: Guadalupe County Early Voting Clerk, Lisa Adam, P.O. Box 1346, Seguin, Texas 781561346; Bexar County Early Voting Clerk, Jacque Callanen, 1103 S. Frio, Suite 100, San Antonio, TX 78207-9950. Applications for ballots by mail must be received no later than the close of business on October 28, 2016.
Guadalupe & Comal Counties’
Location, Dates & Hours of Main Early Voting Polling Location Seguin Elections Office - 215 So. Milan Street, Seguin, TX (Main Early Voting Location) Seguin ISD Administration Bldg. - 1221 E. Kingsbury St., Seguin, TX Grace Memorial Church - 3240 FM725, New Braunfels, TX Central Texas Technology Center - Room 118 Conference Room, 2189 FM 758, New Braunfels, TX Schertz Elections Office Annex -1101 Elbel Rd., Schertz, TX New Berlin City Hall - 9180 FM 775, New Berlin, TX Selma City Hall - 9375 Corporate Drive, Selma, TX Monday, Oct. 24 through Saturday, Oct. 29, 2016 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 30, 2016 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday, Oct. 31 through Friday, November 4, 2016 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Early Voting Clerk: Lisa Adam P.O. Box 1346 Seguin, Texas 78156-1346 Presiding Judge of the Early Voting Ballot Board: Lisa Adam
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SPECIAL SECTION cont’d 42
COMAL AND GUADALUPE COUNTY’S ELECTION DAY NOVEMBER 8, 2016 POLLING PLACES Polls Open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Comal County:
Precinct 202 John Paul II Catholic High School, 6720 FM 482, New Braunfels 301 Westside Community Center, 2932 So. IH 35, New Braunfels
Guadalupe County:
Precinct 303 Schertz Elections Office 1101 Elbel Rd., Schertz 304 Schertz United Methodist Church, 3460 Roy Richard Dr., Schertz 305 Selma City Hall, 9375 Corporate Dr., Selma 306 Crosspoint Fellowship Church, 2600 Roy Richard Drive, Schertz 401 Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 212 N. Barnett St., Marion 402 Schertz Community Center, 1400 Schertz Parkway, Schertz 403 Knights of Columbus Hall, 509 Schertz Parkway, Schertz 404 Schertz Community Center North, 3501 Morning Dr., Schertz/Cibolo 409 Elaine S. Schlather Intermediate School, 230 Elaine S. Schlather Parkway, Cibolo
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MAIN AND PERMENANT BRANCH POLLING PLACES, DATES, AND TIMES IN BEXAR COUNTY Early voting begins Monday, October 24, 2016 and ends on Friday, November 4, 2016. Early Voting Clerk: Jacquelyn F. Callanen 1103 S. Frio, Suite 100 San Antonio Texas 78207-9950 Presiding Judge of the Early Voting Ballot Board: Jacquelyn F. Callanen
Location, Dates & Hours of Main Early Voting Polling Places in Bexar County Bexar County Elections Department 1103 S. Frio, Suite 100 San Antonio Texas Monday, October 24, 2016 through Friday, October 28, 2016 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Saturday, October 29, 2016 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Sunday, October 30, 2016 12:00 noon to 6:00 p.m. Monday, October 31, 2016 through Friday, November 4, 2016 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Any voter who is entitled to vote an early ballot by personal appearance may do so at the Main Early Voting Site.
CIVIC NEWZ BROOKHOLLOW LIBRARY 530 Heimer Road CASTLE HILLS CITY HALL. (SE CORNER OF COUNCIL CHAMBERS 209 Lemonwood Dr. CLAUDE BLACK CENTER 2805 East Commerce CODY LIBRARY 11441 Vance Jackson COLLINS GARDEN LIBRARY 200 North Park CONVERSE CITY HALL CONFERENCE ROOM 405 S. Seguin Rd COPERNICUS COMMUNITY CENTER 5003 Lord Rd.
JULIA YATES SEMMES LIBRARY @ Comanche Lookout Park 15060 Judson Road
SHAVANO PARK CITY HALL (COUNCIL CHAMBERS) 900 Saddletree Ct
LAS PALMAS LIBRARY 515 Castroville Road
SOMERSET HIGH SCHOOL 7650 South 1604 West, Somerset
LEON VALLEY CONFERENCE CENTER 6421 Evers Rd LION’S FIELD 2809 Broadway MAURY MAVERICK, JR. LIBRARY 8700 Mystic Park
SOUTHSIDE ISD ADMIN BLDG (BOARD ROOM) 1460 Martinez-Losoya
MCCRELESS LIBRARY 1023 Ada Street
SOUTH PARK MALL 2310 S.W. Military
MEMORIAL LIBRARY 3222 Culebra
THOUSAND OAKS/ EL SENDERO LIBRARY 4618 Thousand Oaks
MISSION LIBRARY 3134 Roosevelt Ave.
EAST CENTRAL ISD ADMIN BUILDING 6634 New Sulphur Springs Rd.
NORTHSIDE ACTIVITY CENTER 7001 Culebra
ENCINO BRANCH LIBRARY 2515 EAST EVANS RD
NORTHWEST VISTA COLLEGE 3535 N. Ellison Dr.
FAIR OAKS RANCH CITY HALL (COUNCIL CHAMBERS) 7286 Dietz Elkhorn
OLMOS CITY HALL 120 El Prado W
GREAT NORTHWEST LIBRARY 9050 Wellwood HENRY A. GUERRA, JR. LIBRARY 7978 W Military Drive JOHN IGO LIBRARY 13330 Kyle Seale Parkway JOHNSTON LIBRARY 6307 Sun Valley Drive
SOUTH SAN ANTONIO ISD ADMIN BLDG 5622 Ray Ellison
PALO ALTO COLLEGE 1400 W. Villaret Blvd. PARMAN LIBRARY @Stone Oak 20735 Wilderness Oak PRECINCT 1 SATELLITE OFFICE 3505 Pleasanton Rd.
TOBIN LIBRARY @OAKWELL 4134 Harry Wurzbach UNIVERSAL CITY CITY HALL 2150 Universal City Blvd. UTSA (Bexar Room) 6900 N Loop 1604 W WINDCREST TAKAS PARK CIVIC CENTER 9310 Jim Seal Dr. WONDERLAND MALL OF THE AMERICAS @ CROSSROADS 4522 Fredericksburg
SAN ANTONIO COMMUNITY COLLEGE (ECO Centro Bldg) 1802 N. Main
For more information go to schertz.com.
Bexar County Election Day Polling Locations Polls Open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Precincts 4087, 4126, and 4127 Ray D. Corbett Junior High 12000 Ray Corbett Drive
EARLY VOTING BY MAIL Applications for Ballots by Mail must be received no later than the close of business on October 28, 2016. Applications should be mailed to: Comal and Guadalupe Counties Lisa Adam Election Administrator P. O. Box 1346 Seguin, Texas 78156-1346 Bexar County Jacquelyn F. Callanen, Election Administrator 1103 S. Frio, Suite 100 San Antonio, Texas 78207-9950
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CIVIC NEWZ Fire Prevention Week October 9-15, 2016 By Fire Chief David Covington October brings fall colors, cooling temperatures, ghosts and goblins; but it also brings us a message of prevention. The week in which October 9 falls is the time we celebrate Fire Prevention Week across the nation. It started in 1922 and was meant to commemorate one of the most notorious fires in our history, the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. The fire was said to have been started with the kick of Mrs. O’Leary’s cow, knocking over a lantern while being milked. Some 250 people died and 100,000 were left homeless in a fire that burned 17,400 buildings, which is about the size of Schertz. While the guilt of the cow is disputed to this day, there is no argument with the fact that there were actually two great fires that day. Besides the Great Chicago Fire, a wildland fire called the Peshtigo Fire erupted in northeast Wisconsin. Still the largest wildland fire in American history, the Peshtigo Fire devoured 16
towns and 1.2 million acres and killed 1,152 people. This October we also recognize the Schertz Fire Rescue’s 60th anniversary. Sixty years ago twelve local businessmen formed the all-volunteer fire department here in Schertz. In 1959 the first fire engine was purchased, a 1956 Ford Pumper. You can still see the original engine in parades and events, long retired from its firefighting days. To commemorate the 60th Anniversary, Schertz Fire Rescue will be hosting a Fire Prevention Week poster contest at area schools. There will be categories from Kindergarten to High School, and the winning posters and artists will be presented to City Council on October 25, 2016.
by giving public talks and visiting schoolchildren to get the message out. This year the message is: “Don’t Wait—Check the Date! Replace Smoke Alarms Every 10 Years.”
from that date. As always, remember to check your battery regularly. Schertz Fire Rescue Department will focus on home fire safety and protecting families.
As we “Celebrate the 60th” we are reminded of how fragile we are when it comes to fire. Each year Schertz Fire Rescue, like so many other fire departments across the country, will gear up for Fire Prevention Week
According to NFPA only a small percentage of people know how old their smoke alarms are or how often they need to be replaced. Look for the date on the back of the smoke alarm and replace it ten years
For more information on Fire Prevention Week, go to www.fpw.org and like us on Facebook at Schertz Fire Rescue.
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CIVIC NEWZ
EMS Staffer Jim Busch Receives 20-Year Service Pin
EMS staffer Jim Busch was honored with a 20-year service pin at the City Council meeting, Tuesday, September 6. Jim started full time with Schertz EMS in 1996 after being a firefighter at Randolph AFB, then
working for Universal City as a firefighter for 10 years. He is currently the second longest serving employee in the EMS department. Jim is a Florida native (Miami area) who joined the Air Force soon after
City Council Approves Fiscal Year 2016-17 Budget, Tax Rate The Schertz City Council on Tuesday, September 6, passed the City’s new Fiscal Year 2016-17 Budget and approved a new Property Tax Rate. The new $72.5 million budget, which goes into effect October 1, is slightly larger than the FY 2015-16 $70 million City Budget. Some of the budget highlights for the new fiscal year are: Classification & Compensation Study recommendations, Firefighter Ramp Up, Natatorium, 3 Additional Police Employees, IT Employee, Citizen Survey, 2 Paramedics in EMS, Drainage Channels Improvements, and Northcliffe Sewer Infiltration Phase II The City Council also approved a new Property Tax Rate of $0.4911 per $100 evaluation, unchanged from the FY 201516 rate.
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graduating from high school. He said the easiest way to become a paramedic was to become a firefighter and the easiest way he could do that was to join the military.
Jim’s family – wife Sandra, son, James Jr., and daughter Katherine, – were at the ceremony September 6. He works at Station 4 in Marion and his career includes delivering a baby.
Looking Back
October
Local History
On October 6, 1972, the Schertz City Council voted to hire a city manager in place of the existing city secretary. Mayor Graham proposed that the council conduct a telephonic interview with a particular candidate for the city manager post. Two councilmen walked out of the meeting following the mayor’s suggestion that a telephone interview be conducted. The telephone interview was conducted and the mayor’s suggested candidate, Mr. Danny L. Arnold, was hired as City Manager by a vote of the three remaining councilmen.
Presented by the Schertz Historical Preservation Committee in the interest of historical perspective and community awareness of local historical legacies.
CITY
CALENDARZ
October 2016
#info
Tuesday, 4
Annual Events:
City Council, 6:00 PM Council Chambers
October
TSAC, 5:30 PM City Council Chambers
National Night Out October 4 Fire Prevention Week October 9-17 Community Clean Up Mobile Villa October 22 Trunk Or Treat Movie In The Park October 29
November
Hal Baldwin Golf Tournament November 4 Election Day November 8 Veterans Day November 11 Holiday Tree Lighting November 29
December
Festival of Angels December 2 Movie In The Park December 10
Be sure to check out visitschertz.com for more event info!
Thursday, 6
Monday, 10
Columbus Day City Offices Closed
Tuesday, 11
City Council, 6:00 PM Council Chamber
Wednesday, 12
Planning & Zoning, 6:00 PM Council Chambers
Monday, 24
Board Of Adjustment, 6:00 PM Council Chambers Parks & Recreation Advisory Board, 5:30 PM Bob Andrews Room
Tuesday, 25
City Council, 6:00 PM Council Chambers
Wednesday, 26
Planning & Zoning, 6:00 PM Council Chambers
Thursday, 27
EDC Board, 6:00 PM Council Chambers Meeting locations may change, please visit the calendar at www.schertz.com for more information.
Schertz City Council Mayor: Michael Carpenter
Council Members: Jim Fowler Grumpy Azzoz Daryl John Cedric Edwards, Sr. Robin Thompson
(210) 619-1045 (210) 326-6017 (210) 488-4214 (210) 204-2750 (210) 566-4540 (210) 204-8649
City Departments:
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
PUBLIC AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT 1400 SCHERTZ PARKWAY SCHERTZ, TEXAS 78154