TO
YOU
BY
SEPTEMBER 2017
THE
CITY
OF
SCHERTZ,
TEXAS
magazine
BROUGHT
City Council Michael Carpenter Mayor Mark Davis Councilmember Ralph Gutierrez Councilmember Scott Larson Councilmember Cedric Edwards Councilmember Robin Thompson Councilmember Angelina Kiser Councilmember Bert Crawford 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 33 ISSUE 9 33 Years and counting...!
PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY Public Affairs Department Linda Klepper Public Affairs Director Melissa Geedman Communications Manager Devan Flores Marketing & Communications Specialist Alexis Souza Graphic Design Contributing Staffers Erin Matlock Office Manager Mary Spence Events Manager
Contributing Writers
Lucille Sims Thomas, Kira Villarreal, Melissa Geedman, Linda Klepper, Devan Flores, Helen Lafitte, Michael Hansen, Marc Bane, Scott Foley, Cecilia Palomo, Lauren Shrum, Elizabeth Bertoia, Deseret Dawkins, Jennifer Kolbe, Jennifer Jones, Brenda Dennis.
Contributing Photographers
Joshua Nolden, Emily Wallen, Stacey Lovett, Melissa Geedman, Devan Flores, Melissa Andrade 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 call (210) 619-1630 or 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.
Schertz Police Revamps Badges and Vehicles
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H
ello beautiful September. I may be a little bias, but I can’t think of a more perfect time of year: the hot summer days are cooling off and the beauty of fall starts to make presence. While autumn in south Texas may not bring cold sweater weather or intense foliage changes, fall has a way of bringing the community together with fun festive happenings and the kick off of football season. With that being said, the September issue of Schertz Magazine brings so many exciting announcements of fall happenings in and around the community. Make sure to mark your calendars for all of the great events coming up including SchertzQ, county fairs, pumpkin patches, and the Garden & Crafts fair. It wouldn’t be September without some Friday night lights though. On behalf of the City, we’d like to
wish all of the local high schools good luck as the new football season kicks off as well as a wonderful start to a new school year. Go Buffs, Knights and Guardians! Fall is often affiliated with harvest and plentiful vegetation. Enjoy an update from the Guadalupe County Community Garden and a feature article focusing on the efforts Schertz is making to ensure safe practices with mowing and tractor operations. Speaking of changing with the seasons, you’ll find articles in the September issue about our new Schertz Fire Chief and City Municipal Judge. We’re excited to have them step up into their new roles. I’ll leave you with this quote, “It’s a new season: a perfect opportunity to do something new, something bold, something beautiful.”
Melissa Geedman Communications Manager
SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM
31 New Training Helps Keep Schertz Staff Safe
DEPARTMENTS TALK OF THE TOWN Update 6 Parks & Rec 10 Library 14 Visions / Chamber 18 CIVIC NEWS Updates
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CALENDAR
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COVER
BROU GHT
Schertz Community Garden continues to produce vegetation for those in need. SEPTE
MBER
2017
TO
YOU
BY
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CITY
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SCHE RTZ,
TEXA S
magazine
Melissa Geedman
Warrior to Patriot Citizen: Schertz Veteran Publishes Helpful Resource
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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Fall Ha Bracken UMC Women Hold Rummage Sale September 9 Come browse treasures and one-of-a-kind items Saturday morning from 8:00 AM to noon. Enjoy paintings, furniture, clothing, toys and games, electronics and kitchen items. Stop by and then spend time among the trees in the beautiful country setting.
Comal County Fair September 26 - October 1
Our Lady of Perpetual Help Fall Festival October 15
Come enjoy five full days of bull riding, chili cooking, carnival rides, exhibits, competitions, kids activities and more at the Comal County Fair. You’ll have no problem finding entertainment at the largest county fair in Central Texas!
The Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church will hold their annual fall festival on Sunday, October 15 from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Come out and participate in the live auction, silent auction, arts and crafts, games and fun for the entire family! Enjoy a pot roast and sausage dinner and live music by Patty Torres and Blue Harmony. Our Lady of Perpetual Help is located at 16075 N Evans Rd, Selma, TX 78154.
The Comal County Fair Grounds are located at 701 E. Common St. New Braunfels, TX 78130. Check out the full calendar of events at comalcountyfair.org/events. For more information contact the Comal County Fair Association at 830-625-1505 or email ccfa.nbtx@sbcglobal.net.
For more information, call 830-606-6717 or visit www.bracken-umc.org
Schertz Area Senior Center a Fun & Fit Fall Schedule The Schertz Area Senior Center has a number of frolicking events for the remainder of 2017! Events taking place at the Senior Center are: Thursday, September 14 - Senior Road trip - San Antonio Missions Friday, September 22 - Senior Fall Craft Fair & Bazaar Friday, October 13 - Big BINGO Night Friday, November 3 - Fall Frolic Dance The Senior Center is located at 608 Schertz Parkway, adjacent to the Schertz Public Library & Aquatic Complex. For more information call the Senior Center at 210-619-1970 or send an email to cathyf@ymcasatx.org. Be sure to like us on Facebook! Schertz Area Senior Center - YMCA.
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appenings Schertz UMC Free Halloween Festival October 31
TALK OF THE TOWN
Guadalupe County Fair October 12 - 15
Schertz United Methodist Church will hold its 17th Annual Halloween Festival on October 31 from 5:30 - 7:30 PM. The church is located at 3460 Roy Richard Dr. (FM 3009). The festival will include games, food, sodas, a familyfriendly 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.
The Guadalupe County Fair & PRCA Rodeo in Seguin, Texas, is an October celebration of all things livestock and agriculture. With a slew of kid’s events as well as activities like wine tasting and a IBCA State Championship BBQ cook off for the older crowds, this fair and rodeo attracts all ages. The Guadalupe County Fair Grounds are located at 950 S. Austin Seguin, TX. 78155. Check out the full calendar of events at www.gcfair.org/fairevents. For more information contact the Guadalupe County Fair & Rodeo Association at 830-379-6477.
Bracken UMC Fall Festival October 28 Bracken United Methodist Church will hold its Fall Festival on Saturday, October 28 from 4:306:30 PM at its 20377 FM 2252 location. Families and friends will enjoy games for preschool and school age children, a hay ride, train ride, bounce house, food, fundraiser, concessions, music, and a silent auction. Enjoy all the family fun and there may be a few surprises! For more information, call 830-606-6717 or visit www.bracken-umc.org
Pumpkin Patch Opens September 19 Each year Bracken United Methodist Church is home to a huge pumpkin patch which is open from 9:00 AM to dusk beginning on September 19 and running through October 31. This fun-filled event features massive displays of over fifteen thousand pumpkins. Special displays of costumed scarecrows and fantasy characters are arranged for taking that perfect picture of your family, children, or grandchildren amidst the festival of fall colors and characters. On weekends, weather permitting, there are hayrides and the special Pumpkin Patch Express Train rides for the children. You will find pumpkins from baseball size to monsters that will take two people to carry - pumpkins and colorful gourds of every size and description - and maybe even some decorated and painted pumpkins. Prices for the pumpkins start as low as fifty cents. The pumpkin patch benefits the following ministries: Children, Youth, Preschool, Fall Festival, Facility Maintenance, RACAP, United Methodist Men, United Methodist Women, Hand Bells, Children’s Choir, Adult Choir, Gospel Men, Mission & Benevolence, Evangelism, pumpkin patch itself, membership, memorials, grants, and much more! For more information, call 830-606-6717 or visit www.bracken-umc.org
TALK OF THE TOWN National Night Out will be held on Tuesday, October 3. Now is a great time to register your neighborhood for a visit from one of our “teams.� The teams visit neighborhoods who register for the event. The teams consist of a Council Member, Police representative and a member of Schertz staff. To register your neighborhood, please contact Officer Helen Lafitte at the Police Department. She can be reached at 210-619-1264 or by email at hlafitte@ schertz.com. Please provide a point of contact and where your neighborhood will be hosting their block party. Be sure to register early to guarantee a visit.
STAY INFORMED!
Follow us on Facebook at cityofschertz and cityofschertzparksandrecreation
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WE WANT YOUR BEST SHOT!
Use #SchertzParksandRec when posting to Instagram and share your Schertz Parks pictures with us.
CRESCENT BEND BIRDING WALK
Join us at Crescent Bend Nature Park for the next Birding Walk on September 19 from 8:00 - 11:00 AM. Meet in the first parking lot with leader Sandi Wheeler for a walk through the park to learn about the bird life. Bring your binoculars, cameras, water, and snacks. All levels of birders are welcome – from beginners to experts.
STAR PARTIES AT CRESCENT BEND NATURE PARK
Join us on Friday, September 29 from 7:30 - 10:00 PM to view Jupiter, Saturn, Andromeda, and the summer Milky Way. Volunteers from the San Antonio Astronomical Association will have their telescopes available for visitors to get a peek at these natural wonders. If you miss the first Star Party, don’t despair! You will have another opportunity on Thursday, November 9 from 5:30 – 9:00 PM. At this time of year visitors are typically able to view Saturn, Andromeda, and the tail end of the Milky Way. Star Party Etiquette: Dim your vehicle lights when entering the park. Bring a flashlight with a red infrared “night-vision” setting or make your own by covering a regular flashlight with red cellophane and a rubber band. Dress for the weather and bring water and a camp chair if you’d like. Don’t touch any equipment without asking the astronomer first. Avoid loud and boisterous activity; the stars in the sky are the show for the night.
NATURE DISCOVERY SERIES
Does your little one enjoy being outdoors and searching for creepy crawlies? Do Mom and Dad want to get the family outside more enjoying time together? Then the new Nature Discovery Series is for you! The program is designed for families with elementary-aged children, but older and younger siblings are welcome too! Texas Master Naturalist volunteers lead the themed programs which are listed below. The program is free, but pre-registration is required. Please call the Parks & Recreation Office to register at 210-619-1850. Space is limited. Discover Clues and Traces – Saturday, October 14 10:00 - 11:00 AM, Crescent Bend Nature Park Animals survive best when they are hiding, and that’s why we don’t often see them; however, they leave clues and traces behind: tracks, nests, and even bones! They use camouflage to hide in plain sight. Bring out your kiddos to learn how to observe connections and interdependence in nature. Discover What’s Flying – Saturday, November 11 10:00 - 11:00 AM, Crescent Bend Nature Park Interpreters teach how to use viewing instruments (Fun’oculars) and introduce six clues for looking at birds: shape, shade, size, sound, surroundings, and speed. You will be amazed at the diversity of bird life right in your backyard!
PAWS IN THE POOL
The dog days of summer are still hanging on, so it’s time to get your pup’s paws in the pool and cool off! Humans and their furry friends are invited to come out and enjoy an afternoon at the two outdoor pools in Schertz. Join us on Saturday, September 9 at Pickrell Park Pool, and Sunday, September 10 at Wendy Swan Park Pool. Gates are open from 12:00 - 4:00 PM for you and your doggie to take a dip together. The wading pools will be reserved for the small dogs and the main pools are open for the large dogs. Dogs are required to be on leash outside of the pool facility and must wear a collar that they can swim in. Humans are required to show proof of dog’s vaccinations and city pet license at the gate. They must clean up after their pets, and aggressive dogs or humans will be asked to leave. Dog toys, camp chairs, and coolers are allowed (no glass or alcohol). Pre-registration is required. Call the Parks & Recreation Department for more information at 210-6191850 or come by the office at 10 Commercial Place, Building #1, Schertz, TX 78154.
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RACAP Taking Applications for 2017 Holiday Program The Randolph Area Christian Assistance Program (RACAP) will accept applications for the Thanksgiving/Christmas Holiday Meal Basket and assistance program from September 25 through November 16. Thanksgiving applications will be accepted through October 27 and the deadline for Christmas is November 16. Applications from families in need of help for the holidays because of limited or no income, who are at or below the Federal Poverty Guidelines, will be accepted. RACAP welcomes organizations, business, groups, or individuals who would like to participate by “adopting” families, or donating food and/or money. Anyone interested in sponsoring or “adopting” a family for Thanksgiving and/ or Christmas should submit their sponsorship application no later than October 27. RACAP is seeking financial donations to cover the cost of its Holiday Meal Basket Program. Donations from churches, businesses, groups or individuals are greatly appreciated and are being accepted now. Please make all donations payable to RACAP and designate on the check that the donation is specifically for the “Holiday Program”. Families who reside in our zip code service areas (78108, 78109, 78124, 78148, 78154, 78132, 78233 (Live Oak only), 78247, and 78266) and meet income qualifications are eligible. Applications are available at the RACAP office, 307 Pfeil St., Schertz, starting September 25. If anyone knows of a family in need of this special assistance, have them call 210658-1613. For information on how to apply or how to help, or for applications, call RACAP at 210-658-1613 or visit our website www.racap.org.
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SEPTEMBE DID YOU KNOW…THE LIBRARY PROVIDES ACCESS TO ANCESTRY.COM (LIBRARY EDITION) AVAILABLE TO PATRONS USING LIBRARY COMPUTERS? Available on any Internet computer at the library, Ancestry Library Edition contains billions of names in over 6,000 databases and is a comprehensive online source of information for conducting genealogical research. Census records; birth, marriage, and death records; immigration records; vital and church records; military records; and court, land, and probate records are included. Popular databases include the U.S. Federal Census from 1790 to 1930, Social Security Death Index, Civil War records, U.S. Public Records Index, American GenealogicalBiographical Index, and the Federal Slave Narratives. This database is only available to the public at the Library and cannot be accessed from home.
WALK-IN WEDNESDAYS: TECH HELP
Have a question about your phone/tablet/e-reader/laptop? Let us help! Now every 2nd and 4th Wednesday, the Schertz Public Library will take tech help walk-ins from 6:00 - 7:00 PM! Walk-ins will be helped on a first come, first served basis. Individuals may be limited to a few questions in order to accommodate more people due to the nature of walk-ins. Visit schertzlibrary.org/calendar for more information.
INTERMEDIATE SEWING WITH PATTI
This class is for those needing help beyond the basics with their sewing machines. If you have taken Patti’s beginner course and want extra help starting a project this is the perfect class for you. If you haven’t taken Patti’s beginner class, but just need extra help with your sewing machine or a project you are working on, this class would also be helpful. Pre-registration is required and is available at the library, online at schertzlibrary.org/calendar, or by phone 210-619-1700. Class will be held September 5 from 12:00 - 2:00 PM and September 21 from 6:00 - 8:00 PM.
TALK OF THE TOWN
ER EVENTS LIBRARY QUILT BEE
Join us for a few fun hours of quilting! The quilt bee meets on the 2nd Tuesday (September 12) and 3rd Saturday (September 16) of each month from 12:00 - 3:00 PM both days in meeting Room 1 (located in the library foyer). The bee is perfect for advanced quilters and for those interested in getting started!
THE BOOK ENDS AFTERNOON BOOK CLUB
The library book club meets the 2nd Thursday of each month in the front meeting room. On Thursday, September 14, come discuss Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead beginning at 1:30 PM. The Underground Railroad is the sixth novel by American author Colson Whitehead. It is the winner of the 2017 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction, the 2016 National Book Award for Fiction, the Arthur C. Clarke Award and the 2017 Andrew Carnegie Medal for Excellence. The novel tells the story of Cora and Caesar, two slaves who make a bid for freedom from their Georgia plantations by following the Underground Railroad, which in the novel is an actual subway as opposed to a series of safe houses and secret routes.
1,000 BOOKS BEFORE KINDERGARTEN
The Schertz Public Library & the Schertz-Cibolo Lions Club have partnered to offer an early literacy initiative called 1,000 Books before Kindergarten. This project encourages parents to read aloud at least 1,000 books with their children before they enter school. Register your child at the Children’s Information Desk at the library to receive a free tote bag. Children will earn a sticker for every 100 books read and a book when they complete the program.
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TALK OF THE TOWN
Schertz Magazine All Over the Map The map to the left shows just some of the places Schertz Magazine has traveled! Bring your Schertz Magazine along during your travels and send us a high resolution photo of you and your magazine to events@schertz.com. You may see your photo in an upcoming issue of Schertz Magazine!
(Above Left) Jess and Traci Sandifer went to Yellowstone National Park with their Schertz Magazine. (Above Center) Cynthia & Albert PeĂąa went to the El Yunque National Forest in Puerto, Rico with their Schertz Magazine. (Right) Ed & Regina Ford took their Schertz Magazine to the Great Wall of China.
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(Above) Chuck & Sherry Cornelisse took their Schertz Magazine on vacation to Jordan during a biblical study tour. (Right) Alejandra AlcĂĄntar and her daughter Melanie took Schertz Magazine to MĂŠxico City.
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Schertz Library Encourages Blue Santa Donations This year the theme of the Schertz Public Library’s summer reading program was Build a Better World, so the library decided to let patrons clear their library accounts while giving back to the community at the same time. At one point or another, we have all forgotten to return or renew library materials, which usually results in a library fine. During the Library’s special Christmas in July Amnesty Month, patrons were granted the opportunity to clear their overdue fines by bringing one new toy per library account and in return all overdue fines on the account were waived. Fines that were waived ranged from a couple dollars to forty plus dollars. All toys that were collected during the amnesty month will be donated to the Schertz Police Department Blue Santa Program. Through the generosity of residents, businesses and employees, the Blue Santa Program helps many deserving families have a joyous Christmas. Library amnesty is a rare event and it was great to see so many people take advantage of the opportunity to clear their library accounts. The library waived roughly $400.00 in fines from accounts during the month.
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YMCA Hosts Lifeguard Camp The Schertz Family YMCA hosted their first Junior Lifeguard Camp which focused on water safety awareness and physical skill development activities. Participants ages 9 to 14 enjoyed a variety of water and land activities designed to promote fitness, self-esteem and teamwork that will enrich the future of each camper. As youth discovered a whole new world about water awareness they also had the opportunity to learn how to rescue someone from the safety of land by using a shepherd’s crook, ring buoy or other objects. They also learned how to react if their is an emergency and the ability to notice if someone is in danger on land or in water. The YMCA is dedicated to providing participants with the best instruction possible so that one day they can be confident in their endeavors. They strive to instill the core values of Honestly, Respect, Responsibility, Caring and Faith throughout the Junior Lifeguard Program and are very grateful to City of Schertz EMS who helped implement these values during the program.
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The Buzz from the
Community Garden The Schertz Master Gardeners will be hosting a Garden & Craft Fair on September 30 at the Community Garden, 1101 Elbel Road. The event will kick off with a tour of the garden beginning at 9:00 AM and will be followed by a Building an Elevated Garden demonstration by some of the Master Gardeners. Event attendees can also enjoy a Cooking What You Grow demonstration where Master Gardener, Denise Bonds, will cook up a delicious meal from the garden’s produce. The Garden & Craft Fair welcomes families and friends out for an educational day of fun, free hot dogs, a raffle, and various arts & crafts vendors. Contact dbonds12@yahoo.com for more info or call 210-317-6202. This event is made possible by sponsors Guadalupe County Master Gardeners, Guadalupe County Community Garden, and Texas A&M AgriLife. The Master Gardeners of Schertz are volunteers committed to sharing the horticulture knowledge through outreach, education and demonstration projects. They aim to protect and conserve the natural resources of Texas by teaching safe, effective and sustainable practices that promote the development of healthy gardens, landscapes and communities. Since their establishment, the Community Garden has donated over 25,000 pounds of food to local organizations and continues to produce various fruits, vegetables and herbs to give back to the community. For more information on the Master Gardeners and the Guadalupe County Community Garden, visit them at www.guadalupecountymastergardeners.org or find them on Facebook.
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FEATURE
Schertz Police Revamps Badges and Vehicles By Helen Lafitte with contributions by Chief Hansen and Assistant Chief Bane
Schertz Police department recently recognized the need to establish a unique, one-of-a-kind badge worn by police officers only to avoid any confusion by civilians. If you see an individual wearing an old-style badge, they are not a police officer.
W
hile a badge is only a small piece of a police officer's uniform, it serves a much larger purpose. Each individual sworn in as a Schertz Police Officer must swear an oath to faithfully execute the duties of Peace Officer for the City of Schertz. This oath includes swearing to preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution and laws of the United States and of this State. Only when a newly hired Officer swears this oath does he or she have the badge pinned on the uniform. Many years ago the City created a single-style badge that would be used across multiple departments to include Police, Fire, Building Inspections and Animal Control. The
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It was no small task to arrive at the finished product of a totally redesigned police badge. A committee comprised of several police department staff was formed to create the new badge. The committee consisted of Lt. Manny Casas, Sgt. Virgil Jones, Sgt. Marty Trevino, Cpl. AJ Arriaga and Cpl. Hillory Halbardier. The committee's goal was to create a new badge with specific parameters; the badge had to remain a traditional large oval shape and include a visible badge number for the officer rank. Former badges had a number inscribed on the back of the badge which was used solely for inventory purposes.
We were not willing to just settle on any vehicle... Assistant Chief Bane
The new badge design needed to be a custom, something that uniquely identified an officer and their rank within the police department; each badge has a specific color scheme for identification purposes. Starting with Officer, one will observe an all-silver badge. As you progress through the rank structure, gold accents are added, eventually concluding with an all-gold badge at the Chief ’s rank. Corporal Arriaga took control of the process of working with a vendor on the design and manufacturing of the final product. Arriaga would take designs and concepts back to the committee for approval where eventually a design was presented to all officers for review. The new badge was approved by the majority of all officers and supervisors. Through the use of seized funds, the badges were purchased, and Officers debuted the new badges officially on July 8th, 2017. “Unique to this design is the fact that it was completely custom. There is no other known badge with the exact same appearance,” said Chief Hansen.
If you haven’t seen the new badges on the Officer’s uniforms, you can see them on the new Ford Explorer patrol units. Over the course of several months, the department was tasked with trying to find the best vehicle to fit the needs of the Officers, as well as the department. The department evaluated several different police packaged vehicles from Ford, Chevy and Dodge, eventually arriving at the decision to purchase the Ford Explorer Police Interceptor. “We visited other agencies, police driving instructors and fleet managers, which included the Texas Department of Public Safety and the San Antonio Police Department,” said Assistant Chief Bane. “We were not willing to settle on just any vehicle. We wanted something both reliable and large enough to carry the Officer’s gear and equipment.” In conjunction with the new Explorer units, there are also newly designed graphics on the vehicles. As with the new badges, a committee was formed to create the first-time design. This committee was made up of several individuals to include those outside of the
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FEATURE Schertz Police Revamps Badges and Vehicless cont’d from page 27 department. Those members were Lt. Manny Casas, Sgt. Virgil Jones, Cpl. Daniel Roman, Cpl. AJ Arriaga and Officer Jeffrey Krivacka. With tremendous help from Melissa Geedman of the City’s Public Affairs department, and Brian Chellino from the Streets Department, the final graphics were designed and printed. All the graphics for the vehicles were created in-house using a printer purchased with seized asset money. In the past, the department would spend nearly $800.00 per vehicle just to have graphics produced. Now, the printing of the new graphics only requires the cost of the paper and ink; a fraction of the previous cost. The new design also reduces the number of colors to help with the cost of producing. An additional benefit of in-house service includes the ability to customize the vehicle graphics based upon officer assignment. The four-digit numbers on the side of the
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vehicle showcases the vehicle is assigned to one officer, and corresponds with that officer’s radio call sign. This number begins with a specific two-digit combination which designates the rank of the officer. The number 16 is for Sergeant, 17 is a Corporal and 18 represents an officer. For example, the number 1702 signifies that vehicle is assigned to a Corporal. In addition to the numbers, a supervisor vehicle will also be marked with the word “Supervisor.” The department also added a vehicle for the canine unit, identified with “K-9” on the side of the vehicle.
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By designating the patrol units with specific numbers, it helps the public identify those officers operating the vehicles. It can also provide the community with an understanding as to why there may be multiple marked vehicles on a scene as they may be able to determine one is a supervisor and the other a canine operator. While it may take some time to get used to the new vehicle graphics and badges, it was a necessary change that shows the Police Department can and will evolve as Schertz continues to grow.
FEATURE
Warrior to Patriot Citizen: Schertz Veteran Publishes Helpful Resource By Kira Villarreal
S
an Antonio and its surrounding area is home to one of the largest active and retired military populations in the country. Known affectionately as “Military City, USA,� San Antonio
embraces its military heritage and takes pride in its many residents who are serving their country or have done so in the past. One of the biggest challenges faced by these residents is that of transitioning to civilian life after completion of military service, and a local resident has dedicated herself to helping these men and women as they face this challenge. In her new book, Warrior to Patriot Citizen, Schertz resident and veteran Donna Hoffmeyer helps transitioning service members plan for and manage their separation or retirement from military life. Hoffmeyer is an 18-year US Air Force Nurse, who has been both active duty and reserves, as well as a military dependent. Having transitioned once herself, she understands well the challenges faced by those who are making this major life change and realized that
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there were not many resources available to those who were looking for guidance during this time. Hoffmeyer’s book offers a comprehensive resource based on her own experience, as well as that of many other veterans. Designed for service members who must separate or are choosing to separate from the military, as well as those who are retiring from active service, Warrior to Patriot Citizen provides resources to help these individuals identify the skills, talents and interests they can use to determine a rewarding new life path, including beginning a new career, starting a business or volunteering. Featuring valuable advice on important topics related to the transition process, the book aims to help individuals minimize stress during what can be a challenging
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FEATURE Warrior to Patriot Citizen: Schertz Veteran Publishes Helpful Resource cont’d from page 29
time and focus on making the most of their future. Hoffmeyer says the initial seed for the book was planted as she watched other service members transition and saw them panic as they tried to figure out what their next steps would be and how they were going to support their families. “I always thought that we should have a better way to do this,” she said. “I just didn’t know how.” That part came a bit later when a Facebook conversation about transitioning service members led her to meet the man who would eventually become her co-author, Kevin Cullis. Hoffmeyer was inspired by Cullis’s Facebook comments, and when she found out that he was a self-published author, she suggested that he write a book for transitioning service members. Eventually, they decided to write the book together, and a new partnership was born. Cullis is also an Air Force Veteran, as well as an entrepreneur and business consultant who has made a post-military career out of advising small business owners and positioning them for success by helping them to optimize all areas of their businesses. Between them, Hoffmeyer and Cullis offer a wealth of information in Warrior to Patriot Citizen, and they also include advice from many other veterans throughout the book. Among the topics covered are preparing for transition, mental and physical wellness, financial considerations, identifying skills, networking and marketing, and a comprehensive list of resources. There are many considerations for those transitioning from the military, and Hoffmeyer and Cullis wanted to make sure they addressed these considerations, offering valuable and
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practical information that will help readers with all aspects of their life during this time.
crowdfunding site can be found at www.youcaring.com/wtpc.
According to Hoffmeyer, the initial reception for the book has been very positive. Many veteran-focused nonprofit organizations have expressed interest in partnerships, and several colleges and universities are currently reviewing the book for possible inclusion in future courses. But her main priority is making sure that the book gets to those who need it the most. “The goal is to get Warrior to Patriot Citizen in the hands of all transitioning service members at no cost to them,” Hoffmeyer said.
Warrior to Patriot Citizen is sure to be an essential resource for many individuals here in our local community well as service members throughout the country. For Hoffmeyer, it has been a great experience to be able to serve the military community through this project, and her favorite part of the project has been hearing from those who have benefited from the book. “The most rewarding part of all this is connecting with service members, veterans, dependents and hearing their stories,” she says. “They validate why I wanted to write the book.”
To meet this goal, Hoffmeyer has set up multiple levels of marketing and fundraising efforts. In addition to utilizing social media and doing radio and podcast interviews, she is encouraging businesses to sponsor book signings in cities throughout the country. She has also set up a crowdfunding campaign that allows businesses to make tax-free donations that will provide the books for free to veteran-focused nonprofits. The
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The book is currently available to the public for $12.95 and can be purchased online at warriortopatriotcitizen.com. A portion of the proceeds from the sales will be donated to the Valkyrie Initiative, a non-profit organization serving veterans and first responders and their families.
FEATURE
New Training Helps Keep Schertz Staff Safe
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By Lucille Sims Thomas
afety is paramount to the success of most businesses. As safety is important for the City of Schertz, they decided to get its employees the training they need to do their jobs both safely and successfully. The city opted to utilize the TMOST program to help enhance the safety acumen of its employees who operate tractors and mowing equipment.
TMOST is the Tractor Mower Operator Safety Training Program and is a comprehensive course designed to give both new and experienced tractor/mower operators a boost when it comes to safely operating their equipment. This popular program is being taught all across the United States and Canada using an engaging format that is attention-grabbing and entertaining while at the same time giving attendees hands-on safety training. “New operators were presented with safety information and safety training as well as given the opportunity to learn from more experienced equipment operators. For the experienced operators, this training course was used to refresh their knowledge of the skills required to safely operate the equipment,” said Nancy Tumlinson, Risk and Safety Specialist for the City of Schertz. The training was conducted by the Alamo Group whose headquarters are in Seguin. According to its website, the
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FEATURE New Training Helps Keep Schertz Staff Safe cont’d from page 31
Alamo Group is a world leader in the design, manufacture, distribution and service of highquality equipment for right-ofway maintenance and agriculture with facilities in the U.S., Canada, Australia and Europe. The TMOST training is led by an OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) certified instructor with more than 28 years of experience and can last one to two days or less. The training includes workbooks, DVDs and PowerPoint presentations. The instructor uses an unusual methodology to make the safety training fun and interesting. According to its website, to ensure transfer of safety knowledge, TMOST includes a pre-training test and a posttraining test as well as a final written examination. These
tools are used to measure and compare the participants’ knowledge and safety awareness. Post testing shows an immediate increase in safety awareness knowledge for the participants. “It is a very comprehensive program; it puts the trainer in front of every person that enrolls and it gives them the book knowledge that they need to be safe. It trains them on the OSHA standards for personal protection equipment as well as puts them on each piece of equipment and ensures they know how to operate it both moving it down the road and operating all the functions of the mowing equipment,” said Jon Harshman, Fleet & Facility Services Director for the City of Schertz. Twenty-six Schertz employees received this training back
in February along with some employees from the City of Converse and some Comal County workers. The city has done other training programs but found the most success with TMOST.
Harshman said. “A lot of them come in with little to no training, so this is a way to kind of get them competent on a lot of the high-level equipment that we own and to make them feel good about their jobs.”
“We had been researching different training avenues and feel this is the perfect answer to our training needs,” Tumlinson said.
The TMOST training will also be used to assist with bringing new employees on board, according to Tumlinson.
Harshman explained that there are many benefits to the city in having employees undergo such comprehensive training including a reduction in employee illnesses, injuries and fatalities; a reduction in medical expenses and worker’s compensation payments; and a reduction in repairs of damaged property since employees have been taught to do things correctly. He also thinks it will create job stability for employees who can now feel good about their jobs since they now know how to do their jobs better. “Our hope is that getting these guys more confident will help them manage the equipment better and operate it safely and not put it through things that it’s really not capable of doing,”
“Having adequately trained employees reduces the incidence of accidents, illnesses, injuries and fatalities. Safety is not just an expectation, it’s an obligation we have to the community,” she said. The classroom training for TMOST was conducted at the Schertz Civic Center while the hands-on operational part was done on some land that the city owns next to the animal shelter. At only $100 per employee, Harshman said the training was a real bargain and he’s hoping it will become a regional project. “Our hope is that this can become a regional thing that a lot of the municipalities can participate in and share the cost. The bigger we are the more we can offer, but it can only get so big and still be effective,” Harshman said. More than 12,000 tractor/mower operators have successfully completed the TMOST Program since 2007, according to the Alamo Group, with many clients returning each year to have their employees attend the program for a refresher course on the safety requirements for operating tractors and mowers. Harshman said they will continue to use the program. “We’ve figured out some things we’d like to change and we’ve been working with Alamo (the Alamo Group) on it, but overall it’s a very good program and we want to continue using it,” he said.
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CIVIC NEWZ
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Sandy Bryant Receives Longevity Service Pin
Sandy Bryant has provided 25 years of distinguished service to the City of Schertz at both the Schertz Public Library and the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department. During the City Council meeting on July 25, Sandy received her 25 year service pin. The presentation of this service pin is quite special, not because it is for 25 years of service, which that in itself is something to be proud of, but because Sandy is the first employee, since the service pin program started, who has stood in front of City Council twice to receive a pin. The first was 5 years ago for her 20 year service and now for her 25 year pin. Sandy started working in the City at the Schertz Public Library as a part-time Children’s Clerk in 1991. She was promoted to full time Circulation Clerk in 1992. She served at the Library for 12 years before becoming the Administrative Assistant for Parks, Recreation and Community Services in 2003. Sandy is currently the Senior Administrative Assistant for Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department and is responsible for preparing and maintaining budgets, reports, documents, correspondence and records for the Parks and Pools. Sandy is also responsible for the pavilion reservations, which she pointed out that the kids she used to read to at story time, she now rents the pavilions to them for their kids! She also serves as secretary for the Parks Advisory Board. Sandy was born and raised in Vinity, Arkansas. Her family still has land there which she says there is a lot of pine trees, beavers and rattlesnakes. After graduation from high school she attended Arkansas State University. She left the University to join the United States Air Force in 1969, where she served in the data automation field. After completion of Basic Training at Lackland AFB, San Antonio, Texas and Tech School at Shepherd AFB, Wichita Falls, Texas, she was stationed at Charleston AFB, South Carolina. She left Charleston to serve a tour at Misawa AB, Japan where her daughter Teresa was born. She returned to Omaha, Nebraska where she was assigned to the Global Weather Center at Offutt AFB, Nebraska for 6 plus years. She was then assigned to Randolph AFB, Texas where she met and married her husband John and where their daughter Eryn was born. They were later assigned to Camp New Amsterdam AB, Netherlands where their son John Jr. was born. She refers to her children as her international family. Sandy then went on to serve a tour in Germany before returning to Brooke AFB, Texas where she retired after serving over 20 years. Sandy has played an instrumental part in the Parks Department as new parks have been brought on board and with the recent Movies and Music in the Parks series; her ideas and participation with these events have really taken them to the next level. Sandy enjoys her job and told us that the citizens are the most important part of her job and how she interacts and takes care of them is something she is most proud of doing.
This sentiment can be echoed by her boss, Chuck VanZandt, who had this to say about Sandy: ‘“Thank you for calling Parks, Recs, and Community Services... this is Sandy, how may I help you?” In a nutshell, the question at the end of the phrase epitomizes who Sandy is and what she is all about. She is kind, considerate, thoughtful, and friendly. She doesn’t really know a stranger and strangers will feel like they’ve known her all of their lives once they meet or speak with her. She is dedicated to her job but there is more than that; she is a dedicated City employee who exemplifies our four core values.”
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CIVIC NEWZ
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Kade Long Sworn In As New Fire Chief Kade Long was sworn in as the new Schertz Fire Chief at the August 1 City Council meeting. Long has served as the Assistant Fire Chief since 2015. After earning a bachelor’s degree in education from South Western Oklahoma State University in Weatherford, Long began his career of service in the field of education teaching health and athletic training classes. He started out at Amarillo High School and then taught classes at Connally ISD near Waco. When Long worked in the Connally ISD, he decided to join the volunteer fire department in China Springs just outside Waco. “Working as a volunteer is what sparked my interest. I found it very exciting, and I realized that I really had a passion for helping people in this capacity.” His experience as a volunteer for China Springs led Long to pursue a change in his career. He was hired in Duncanville, Texas and served as a professional firefighter and paramedic there for 13 years. Duncanville had a mutual aid agreement with Dallas and the department generally averaged about 7,000 calls a year between the city’s two stations. Kade really enjoyed his time at Duncanville and learned a lot from his experiences there. However, he made a decision during that time that he wanted to do more and get involved in shaping the
response that citizens received, more from a management level. So Long went back to school and got his master’s degree from Sam Houston State University. He then began looking for upperlevel fire department jobs. In 2013, Long was hired as EMS coordinator and handled training for the department as well. When the chief retired about a year later, Long became the new chief and shortly after, the interim city manager. When the Assistant Chief position opened up in Schertz, it was a great opportunity to move back to an urban area and serve in top-notch department. “I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to get back to a fast-growing urban area. Schertz and the fire department strives to be progressive and work hard to meet the changing needs of its citizens. I am excited to be a part of a dedicated and innovative department with high expectations to provide great customer service to its citizens.” Long and his wife, Terry, have three children. Their oldest son, Jordan, is a recent graduate from Texas A&M University. Their daughter, Ashlynn, is a high school senior and their youngest son, Kolton, is a sophomore. Please join the City in celebrating Chief Long’s accomplishment!
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CIVIC NEWZ
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OCTOBER 6 SEDC, SAMA and CalTex Team Up to Celebrate National Manufacturing Day Manufacturing Day is a celebration of modern manufacturing meant to inspire and build awareness for the next generation of manufacturers. This year, Manufacturing Day is Friday, October 6. The Schertz Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) in conjunction with the San Antonio Manufactures Association (SAMA) are planning activities for the public to attend. Multiple events are planned throughout the day, including plant tours at CalTex Protective Coatings, located at 7455 FM 3009 located in Schertz in the morning and the Toyota Motor Manufacturing facility in San Antonio in the afternoon.
commonly thought of as antiquated factories designed for low-skilled workers. Manufacturing Day addresses this misperception by giving all manufacturers an opportunity to open their doors and show, in a coordinated effort, exactly what manufacturing is and what it is not.
“Caltex is pleased to open our doors on October 6 from 9:00 - 11:00 AM to celebrate Manufacturing Day and feature how we have become the premier provider of automotive coatings sold through dealerships nationwide. We see this as an opportunity to do what we can to debunk the myth that modern shop floors are dirty factories of the past and that manufacturing is an excellent career choice,” said Rande Hawkinson, Executive Vice President of Operations, CalTex.
A change in perception is the first step in addressing one of the main challenges faced by manufacturers – a gap in skilled labor. By giving manufacturers an occasion to share what they do with their communities, Manufacturing Day provides manufacturers with an opportunity to connect directly with job seekers and students to begin to address the skilled labor shortage they face.
Manufacturing facilities, which include highly trained, well-paid employees who work on technical equipment, are
“We are excited to work with SEDC and SAMA to celebrate Manufacturing Day with fellow manufacturers, students, educators, businesspeople, and our elected officials to educate them about manufacturing careers and improving the public perceptions of manufacturing,” said Hawkinson.
“Some residents may have never been inside a manufacturing plant, and this is a great opportunity to see what happens inside. The tours expose them to careers they may have never considered,” said Kyle
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Kinateder, Executive Director, Schertz Economic Development Corporation. “To change perceptions about manufacturing, we are partnering with our manufacturers, workforce development partners and schools to encouraging residents and students to explore the possibilities offered by a manufacturing career. Providing a realistic picture of today’s manufacturing world – clean, quiet, and modern with cutting edge automation – through site visits to local manufacturers, they can see how they can get started in an exciting industry,” said Kinateder. Manufacturing Day is a component of the SEDC’s business retention and expansion activities and demonstrates the corporation’s commitment to support manufacturing industries. The SEDC and our regional partners are arduously working to build a strong manufacturing base with a skilled workforce which strengthens our overall economy. Attendance on the plant tours is limited and registration is required. Registration is available online at www.sama-tx.org/ events/mfg-day/ or by calling SAMA at (210) 979-7530.
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CIVIC NEWZ
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CHIPPING SERVICES The City of Schertz provides a Curb Side Chip service during the year for Schertz Residents. Chipping service will be performed on Fridays during normal business hours. You may sign up for an appointment on line at schertz. com (upper right hand corner – main page) or at 210.619.1800 to schedule appointments. Appointments will be scheduled according to availability. In the event of unforeseen delays, including weather, chip jobs not done Friday will be completed the following Monday.
DO DO
DON'T DON'T
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All brush and tree limbs must be at the front of the curb of the billing address
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ABSOLUTELY NO TREE STUMPS PLACED ON TOP OF LIMBS.
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Stack brush and tree limbs neatly for easy access
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NO parked cars clear of brush pile
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All brush must be curbside by 7:30 am on date of scheduled service.
DO NOT stack brush piles fore than 5ft in height.
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Stumps must be cut 18 inches in length and less than 12 inches in width (or split in half) in order for pickup and must be placed in a separate pile along curb. Stumps will not be chipped, but must be accessible and able to be lifted by a single person in order to be removed from location. These guidelines must be followed or stumps will not be removed.
DO NOT have limbs longer that 7ft in length.
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The following items will NOT be picked up:
• HOUSEHOLD TRASH. ETC.
This is a residential service only.
X X • PALM TREE LIMBS X • CACTUS LIMBS OF ANY KIND X • LUMBER
Any work performed by hiring of a contractor from resident will be the responsibility of resident to have contractor remove all limbs and debris. NO EXCEPTIONS. Chips will not be shoveled out of truck or shot into resident yard with chipper.
A fee of $25.00 per half hour will be assessed for pickup and chipping (charge will appear on customer water bill).
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City's Master Thoroughfare Plan Gets Green Light In the City of Schertz 2016 Citizen Satisfaction Survey, 78% of respondents indicated that traffic will be the biggest issue that the City of Schertz will face within the next five years. They also indicated that road repair, maintenance, and expansion as well as planning for rapid growth will be issues facing Schertz going forward. On July 11, 2017, City Council approved an ordinance amending the City’s Master Thoroughfare Plan (MTP) which is the planning effort designed to address the community’s traffic and transportation concerns. The MTP was developed by analyzing current and future land uses to estimate the traffic generated from those uses. The proposed network of transportation infrastructure established in the MTP is intended to allow for the efficient movement of vehicles throughout the City of Schertz, given anticipated growth patterns and changing community demographics in the City, surrounding communities, and jurisdictions. The plan must be updated periodically to address changes in land use, growth and growth projections, as well as changing goals and objectives of the City. The basis of the existing plan and subsequent updates is the City’s Comprehensive Land Plan from 2002. The MTP has been amended several times since the Comprehensive Land Plan was originally adopted in 2002, the first comprehensive update to the MTP. The City’s goals for the MTP update includes mobility and connectivity, improvement of existing roadway infrastructure, preservation and enhancement of environment and aesthetic value, and identification and advancement of alternative modes of transportation. The update to the MTP addresses those goals in the context of updated input including reevaluating existing and proposed land uses and growth projections, current and forecasted traffic volumes, and analysis of existing and future connections to adjacent communities for connectivity of roadways at a regional level. The updated MTP also addresses and updates the City’s street functional classifications and design guidelines, such as right-of-way widths and typical cross sections. Community input and feedback was a crucial component during the MTP update process. Advisory groups comprised of the Capital Improvement Advisory Committee Members (Planning and Zoning Commissioners plus two additional members), Transportation Safety Advisory Commissioners, and Economic Development Corporation Board Members acted as representatives of the public at large and met several times as part of the process of updating the MTP. An open house was held and all property owners within the City corporate limits and extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ) were invited via post cards that were mailed to each property owner to solicit input and feedback. A Public Hearing was also held on May 24, 2017 to afford citizens another opportunity to provide comments to City Staff. A copy of the adopted MTP update can be found on the City of Schertz website under the Engineering Department. It should be noted that the alignment shown is generalized, not an exact location of the road. Efforts will be made when setting exact alignments to follow property lines where possible rather than bisecting tracts, avoid structures, historically significant areas, and environmentally sensitive areas to the degree possible. However, it is not always possible to accommodate all of those factors. For more information on the Master Thoroughfare Plan, go to Schertz.com
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Playscape Restroom Facility Plans The installation of outdoor public restroom facilities at the Schertz Playscape are anticipated to be complete by the beginning of 2018. The construction of the Schertz Playscape was completed in early Spring of 2013. During the planning process, the potential need for a set of outdoor restrooms was identified, but construction and installation of a set of outdoor restrooms was pushed for a later date. The restroom facilities will have a covered access to each restroom so that users can
get out of the weather prior to entering or exiting the restrooms. Each restroom and covered access will be lit for safe use after dark. The exterior of the restroom will mimic the facades of both the Library and the Recreation
Center to aesthetically match its surroundings. Over the next month, final plans and specifications will be reviewed. The restrooms will then be pre-constructed at a facility in Marble Falls, Texas
and will take approximately 90-120 days to complete. Once that is accomplished, it will take about a week to get the modular restroom unit installed. The goal is to have functional restrooms on site by late December.
BURN BAN Burn Ban in Effect
The Schertz Fire Marshal has enacted a burn ban in the City of Schertz effective July 12. Dry and warm conditions combined with variable winds make outdoor burning hazardous. There are NO outside fires of any kind permitted to burn until further notice. Contact the Fire Department at 210.619.1300 for questions or information.
General Election November 7 The City of Schertz will be holding its General Election on November 7, 2017 for the purpose of electing Council Members in Place 3, Place 4 and Place 5 for a three-year term, from November 2017 to November 2020. Early voting by personal appearance will begin on October 23, 2017 and ends November 3, 2017. Early voting locations will be posted on our website at www.schertz.com by clicking on the election banner, and you may also access the locations by going to: • For Comal and Guadalupe County – www.co.guadalupe.tx.us/elections/ • For Bexar County – • www.bexar.org/1568/ElectionsDepartment
The last day to submit a voter registration application in time to vote at the November 7, 2017 election or for requesting a transfer of registration is October 9, 2017.
Election day locations will also be published by precinct at the above sites. Any questions please feel free to contact the City Secretary’s office at 210-619-1000.
Steve Simonson Community Service Award The Steve Simonson Community Service Award is presented annually to the Schertz resident who during the eligibility year exhibits selfless commitment to Schertz via volunteer efforts that made a difference in others’ lives. The Steve Simonson Community Service Award recognizes people who voluntarily offer their time and talent to improve the community in such areas as (but not limited to) health care, social services, youth or senior activities, the arts, education, justice, housing, nutrition, community growth and development, and community morale.
Do you know a deserving volunteer?
Steve Simonson Community Service Award Eligibility Criteria • Nominees must be at least 18 years old by January 1, 2017. • Nominees must devote at least 50 percent of their volunteer efforts to programs, people or events in the City of Schertz. • Nominees may not be candidates for or holders of public office during the eligibility year. • Nominees may not receive the award two consecutive years. • Nominees must be unpaid volunteers, and may not receive any compensation for their efforts or time. • Volunteer efforts upon which a nomination is based must have occurred during the eligibility year: October 1, 2016 – September 30, 2017. • Nomination packets can be found at www. schertz.com under the Events tab. Please direct any questions to 210.619.1636.
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CIVIC NEWZ
Schertz Appoints Judge Dullnig to Municipal Court The City of Schertz appointed former City Prosecutor, Darrell Dullnig, to serve as the Municipal Court Judge for the City of Schertz. Dullnig was sworn into office at the August 8 City Council Meeting and will serve his term effective immediately. Judge Dullnig will be replacing Stephen Takas who served as the interim Judge since the passing of John Hrncir. Dullnig has served as Prosecutor for both the City of Schertz and Garden Ridge since 1992 as well as serving other surrounding communities to include Selma, Shavano Park, Windcrest, Bulverde and Kirby. He currently serves the town of Hollywood Park, Kirby and Selma as Municipal Judge. Dullnig received his Bachelor of Arts from Trinity University and his Doctorate of Jurisprudence from St. Mary’s University. City Council has appointed Tom Howe as the interim Municipal Prosecutor and Carlos Solis as the interim assistant or alternate municipal prosecutor.
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Schertz EMS Receives AHA’s Mission: Lifeline EMS Recognition Award Schertz EMS recently received the American Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline® EMS Gold Plus Award for implementing quality improvement measures for the treatment of patients who experience severe heart attacks. This is the second year in a row that Schertz EMS achieved Gold. Every year, more than 250,000 people experience an ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), the deadliest type of heart attack caused by a blockage of blood flow to the heart that requires timely treatment. To prevent death, it’s critical to restore blood flow as quickly as possible, either by mechanically opening the blocked vessel or by providing clot-busting medication. Unfortunately, a significant number of STEMI patients don’t receive this prompt reperfusion therapy, which is critical in restoring blood flow. Mission: Lifeline seeks to save lives by closing the gaps that separate these patients from timely access to appropriate treatments. Mission: Lifeline’s EMS recognition program recognizes emergency medical services for their efforts in improving systems of care and
improving the quality of life for these patients. Emergency Medical System providers, like Schertz EMS are vital to the success of Mission: Lifeline. Schertz EMS Paramedics perform 12-lead ECGs which measure the electrical activity of the heart and can help determine if a heart attack has occurred. These tools, training, and practices allow Schertz EMS providers to rapidly identify suspected heart attack patients, promptly notify the hospital and trigger an early response from the awaiting hospital personnel. “Schertz EMS medics play a central role in the care of those who are experiencing a heart attack. They are the prime reason we achieved Gold this year,” said EMS Director Jason Mabbitt. He also credits Clinical Manager Mike Shown for providing the training which allows personnel to correctly identify someone having a heart attack. On Thursday, August 31, Schertz EMS will receive this award at the STRAC (Southwest Texas Regional Advisory Council) Regional Cardiac Systems Committee Quarterly Dinner in San Antonio.
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CIVIC NEWZ LOOKING BACK September QUOTE OF NOTE “History never looks like history when your living through it” John W. Garner
#INFO IMPORTANT SCHERTZ
PHONE NUMBERS Schertz City Council Mayor: Michael Carpenter
Council Members:
LOCAL HISTORY
On September 7, 1972, Mayor Jesse W. Graham issued a proclamation proclaiming September 15th as “Buffalo Day” in the City of Schertz. On September 11, 1890, the military post of San Antonio officially was named Fort San Houston. Fort Sam has since grown to include more than 900 buildings – the largest collection of historic buildings in the Department of Defense – and was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1975.
TEXAS HISTORY
September 5, 1836, voters of the new republic chose their new leaders. Sam Houston was elected as president and Lorenzo de Zevela vice president. The voters also passed a resolution requesting annexation into the United States. However, President Martin Van Buran refused to consider it, citing fear of war with Mexico and constitutional scruples. September 12, 1958, integrated circuit was developed by Jack Kilby at Texas Instruments, Dallas, ushering in a semiconductor and electronics age. Presented by the Schertz Historical Preservation Committee in the interest of historical perspective and community awareness of local historical legacies.
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Mark Davis Ralph Gutierrez Scott Larson Cedric Edwards, Sr. Robin Thompson Angelina Kiser Bert Crawford
(210) 619-1045
(210) 376-9141 (210) 376-9231 (210) 376-9835 (210) 566-4540 (210) 204-8649 (210) 376-9579 (210) 376-9780
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
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PUBLIC AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT 1400 SCHERTZ PARKWAY SCHERTZ, TEXAS 78154