November 2017 by City of Schertz

YOU

NOVEMBER 2017

THE

CITY

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 11 33 Years and counting...!

PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY Public Affairs Department Linda Klepper Public Affairs Director Melissa Geedman Communications Manager Devan Flores Marketing & Communications Specialist _________ Contributing Staffers Erin Matlock Civic Center Manager Mary Spence Events Manager

Contributing Writers

Melissa Geedman, Devan Flores, Linda Klepper, Lauren Shrum, Elizabeth Bertoia, Brenda Dennis, John Nowak, Lesa Wood, Jennifer Kolbe, Jason Mabbitt,

Helen Lafitte, Dana Sotoodeh, Kira Villarreal, Lucille Thomas Contributing Photographers Joshua Nolden, Stacy Lovett, Melissa Geedman, Devan Flores, Tammy Dorsey, John Nowak, Linda Klepper, Helen Lafitte, Cambrella Photography

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. ÂŠ 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 magazine@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 magazine@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.

Senior Center Renovations Complete

Melissa Geedman

here is always something to be thankful for, and as Thanksgiving nears, we are all further reminded to constantly count our blessings, tell our families and friends just how much we love them, and to be thankful for everything we have. The media has been full of some horrific current events lately that left me realizing just how fortunate we are to have love, support, compassion, and happiness all around us. We as a community have a lot to be thankful for in Schertz. We have local businesses dedicated to providing topnotch customer care, first responders and military personnel who risk their lives to fight for ours, non-profit agencies and churches who put others before themselves, City officials committed to building and maintaining a wonderful place to reside and build businesses, and community members who care for one another and put differences aside to help others in need. Schertz is more than just a city; it’s a community built on

traditions, values, professionalism, a hometown feel, and military pride. And for that, I am thankful. As we prepare for Thanksgiving, we would like to remind everyone of some safety precautions to take around the holidays. Read the Thanksgiving safety tips to ensure you and your loved ones have a safe and happy holiday. This issue of Schertz Magazine also highlights some pretty incredible elements that shows just how tight of a community Schertz really is and how everyone comes together to make great impacts. Enjoy a look back at National Night Out where neighborhoods met with City officials and first responders for an evening of fun and good company. Also check out the overwhelming support the community showed during the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey. I’ll leave you with this quote, “It is not happy people who are thankful; it is thankful people who are happy.” Wishing you and your families the happiest of Thanksgivings,

Melissa Geedman Communications Manager

SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM

Affordable Housing Made Possible

27 How Drone Operators and Airfields Share the Sky

TABLE OF CONTENTS

DEPARTMENTS TALK OF THE TOWN Update 6 Parks & Rec 10 Library 14 Visions / Chamber 18 CIVIC NEWS Voting Information Updates

29 33

CALENDAR

COVER

Schertz thanks all those who honorably served in the military in time of war and peace.

Veterans Day Remembrance Every year the City of Schertz honors the veterans that have served our country and made many sacrifices to protect our freedom. We encourage you to show your support and join the City of Schertz and The Chamber Military Affairs Committee (MAC) at the Veterans Memorial Plaza on Friday, November 10 for a remembrance ceremony in observance of Veterans Day. Schertz is saturated in Military service and is home to many veterans who have served in all different areas and decades. Featured on the cover of this issue are just some of the local veterans we acknowledge on this special day.

TALK OF THE TOWN Paul A. Tyquiengco served in the United States Navy for 30 years. During his service, Paul was deployed to Iraq in 2004/2005 and again in 2007/2008 with Naval Mobile Construction Battalion Four and the Thirteenth Naval Construction Regiment 30 NCR. Paul retired as Master Chief Petty Officer E-9. He currently serves as a member of the VFW Post 8315 in Schertz. Cheryl Marie Courtney-St. Louis served in the United States Air Force from June 1987 to July 2009. Within her service, Cheryl served two tours in the Republic of South Korea. She retired as a Master Sergeant E-7. Cheryl is currently the Quartermaster for the VFW Post 8315 in Schertz.

Thomas Benjamin Popham joined the United States Coast Guard on August 11, 1998 where he served for 17.5 years. During his service, he worked as an Electricians Mate and Recruiter. While he never deployed, Thomas was involved in several search and rescue missions throughout his service. Thomas is still active duty as a Petty Officer First Class E-6.

Henry Rivera Conway joined the United States Army September 16, 1975 where he served for 29.5 years for the Army Signal Corps and Military Police. He was deployed in Iraq in 2003 with the 530th Military Police Battalion. He built and was responsible for the Operation, Security, and Transportation of all prisoners from Baghdad to Camp Bucca, Iraq. Henry retired as a Sergeant Major E-9. After serving, Henry was the Commander for the VFW Post 8315 in Schertz, and currently serves as the State of Texas District 5 Commander.

SSgt Jennifer Martinez has served in the United States Marine Corps for 9 years, and is still currently on active duty. While on active duty SSgt Martinez has deployed to Afghanistan in 2012. She was stationed with 1st Supply Battalion on Camp Pendleton, and at Recruiting Station San Antonio where she is currently stationed.

We would like to thank all of our veterans for their sacrifice and dedication to protect our communities and country. schertzmagazine.com

NOVEMBER 2017

National Night Out: A Safe Success in Schertz Rain couldn’t wash out this year’s National Night Out. The rain held off, and for those neighborhoods who participated, it was a great evening enjoyed by all. In keeping with its 35-year tradition, this annual event was held on Tuesday, October 3. According to the National Association of Town Watch, National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live. National Night Out enhances the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while bringing back a true sense of community. Furthermore, it provides a great opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances. Each year, Schertz Police Department asks residents to register their neighborhood block parties to ensure a visit by one of the City’s teams consisting of a Councilmember, Police personnel and senior City staff. The Police Department has even begun putting the neighborhood list out to other departments to ensure no one gets left out. This year, the PD had nearly 25 neighborhoods register. Seven teams visited neighborhoods throughout the city from as far south as Laura Heights to all the way north to Northcliffe and everywhere in between. Each neighborhood visited was provided a proclamation which was read onsite by the visiting Councilmember. Each year the event grows a little more, and without the hard work of everyone involved, it would not continue to be so successful. We can’t wait for 2018!

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NOVEMBER 2017

STAY INFORMED!

WE WANT YOUR BEST SHOT!

Use #SchertzParksandRec when posting to Instagram and share your Schertz Parks pictures with us.

STAR PARTIES AT CRESCENT BEND NATURE PARK

Join us on Thursday, November 9 from 5:30 - 9:00 PM to view Saturn, Andromeda, and the tail end of the Milky Way. Volunteers from the San Antonio Astronomical Association will have their telescopes available for visitors to get a peek at these natural wonders. Please register with Parks & Recreation by calling (210) 6191850. 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 would like. Do not 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 at (210) 619-1850 to register. Space is limited.

DISCOVER WHAT’S FLYING

Saturday, November 11, 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM Crescent Bend Nature Park Interpreters teach the proper use of 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!

CRESCENT BEND BIRDING WALK

Join us at Crescent Bend Nature Park for the next Birding Walk on November 16 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.

Mu ic M vies In The Park and

MOVIE IN THE PARK

Join us for our last Movie in the Park of the year on Saturday, December 9 from 5:00 – 10:00 PM at Pickrell Park. Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000 version) will be the feature film. Expect a visit from the Grinch himself and come outfitted in your best Cindi-Lou or Whoville hair-do! Grinch-themed arts and crafts activities will be included. Popcorn and drinks will be available for purchase.

GET INVOLVED!

The Parks & Recreation Advisory Board meets on the fourth Monday of every month at 5:30 PM at City Hall in the Bob Andrews Conference Room. The meetings are open to the public and we welcome your participation. Call (210) 619-1850 for more information. The Friends of Crescent Bend Nature Park is an informal group of residents who are passionate about the nature park and supportive of the nature programs the city provides at the park. They meet the third Monday of every month at 9:00 AM at the Parks & Recreation Office. They are always looking for volunteers to assist in maintaining the bird blinds at the park. Visit their website for more information at www.friendscbnp.zenfolio.com.

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NOVEMBER 2017

Accepting Blue Santa Applications Schertz Police Department is now collecting items for the Blue Santa program. Collection boxes can be found throughout the community, including schools and various businesses. Schertz PD is asking for new toys and wrapping paper. The Blue Santa Program was created to help bring holiday happiness to families and children in Schertz. Applications for those individuals requesting assistance are available now and can be picked up at the Schertz Police Department or online at Schertz.com. Deadline for applications will be December 1. Contact Officer Lafitte at (210) 619-1200 or Esther Mendoza at (210) 619-1213 for more information.

NOVEMBER EVENTS

TALK OF THE TOWN SCHERTZ LIBRARY CONDUCTING ANNUAL NEEDS ASSESSMENT SURVEYPLEASE SHARE YOUR OPINIONS!

Please complete a survey about the Schertz Public Library. The survey will be open for two weeks from Monday, November 6 until Monday, November 20. It is available online at www. surveymonkey.com/r/KMG2L2M; there are physical copies at the Library’s Circulation and Information Desks. We are interested in your opinion about the services we provide. The more feedback we get the better equipped we will be to improve our existing services and develop new ones to meet emerging needs in your Library. Thank you!

DID YOU KNOW…IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR AN ITEM THAT IS NOT IN OUR CATALOG, WE CAN ATTEMPT TO BORROW IT FROM ANOTHER LIBRARY?

An interlibrary loan (ILL) is a transaction in which library material, or a copy of the material, is made available by one library to another upon request. The purpose of ILL is to obtain library material not available in the Schertz Public Library and to lend material found at the Schertz Public Library to other libraries. ILL service is essential to the vitality of libraries of all types and sizes as a means of greatly expanding the range of materials available to users. Important (ILL) guidelines are listed below: •

You will need a current Schertz Public Library card in good standing to use InterLibrary Loan.

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You will need your library card to pick up your InterLibrary Loan Materials.

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Please check the library catalog before requesting materials through ILL. Any request for an item we already own will be cancelled.

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We cannot request items that have been published within the last 6 months. For new materials, please consider our suggest a purchase form on schertzlibrary.org.

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You may have no more than 5 ILL items in process at any one time.

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Requested materials must be picked up within 5 days of notification.

WERE YOU AFFECTED BY HURRICANE HARVEY?

The Schertz Public Library has several resources available that can assist with disaster recovery. To access these resources, visit schertzlibrary.org and click on the spotlight. For access to the Business Continuity & Disaster Recovery Reference Center, please contact the library at (210) 619-1700.

ADULT OPEN LAB COMPUTER CLASSES

We offer computer classes for adults (18+) every Wednesday and Thursday from 12:00 – 1:00 PM. Pre-registration is required, as space is limited. Students are encouraged to bring their laptop, tablet, smartphone, or e-reader to class for one-on-one assistance. Computers are available for students who do not have their own device.

B.Y.O.C-BRING YOUR OWN CRAFT

Join us for a few fun hours of crafting fun! This is a brand new program for adults 18+ that will be held the first Thursday of each month (November 2) beginning at 5:30 PM. Bring any craft project you are working on and enjoy the company of fellow crafters. Coloring pages, colored pencils, and gel pens will be provided by the library. Pre-registration not required.

THE BOOK ENDS AFTERNOON BOOK CLUB

The library book club meets the second Thursday of each month in the front meeting room. On Thursday, November 9, join us for a discussion of Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout beginning at 1:30 PM.

EVENING STORYTIME

Join us for Evening Storytime on Tuesday, November 7 at 6:30 PM. All ages are welcome. Stories, songs, and activities will engage your children (and entertain the adult who is still a child at heart).

FACT FINDERS

Fact Finders offers opportunities for kids ages 6 to 10 to creatively explore science, technology, engineering and math through different activities each week. Activities follow a short topic discussion. Join us on Thursdays at 4:00 PM.

ILL service is currently free of charge but there is a return postage fee of $3 per item for any unclaimed items. The postage fee will be applied to your account if you do not pick up the item or cancel it while it is in transit from another library.

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NOVEMBER 2017

TALK OF THE TOWN

Schertz Magazine All Over the Map Bring your Schertz Magazine along during your travels and send us a high resolution photo of you and your magazine to magazine@schertz.com. You may see your photo in an upcoming issue of Schertz Magazine!

(Below) The Keilholz family visited Panama City Beach, Florida with their Schertz Magazine.

(Left) Olivia and Carys Ayala-Scharf took Schertz Magazine with them to San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize. (Above) Destiny Jones and Tyler Bingham went to the Great Lakes in Illinois with their Schertz Magazine.

(Right) Jackie, Michael, and Ana took Schertz Magazine to Rome, Italy. (Left) Sharon and Jeff Jost took Schertz Magazine on a cruise to Sawyer Glacier in Juneau, Alaska.

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The Chamber Calendar November 21

Chamber Luncheon Membership Appreciation and Awards Banquet Honoring the area’s best businesses of the year, as voted on by the Chamber Membership. The luncheon is from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM, at the Schertz Civic Center (1400 Schertz Parkway). General Admission is $28 and $18 for our Members that pre-pay, $20 at the door. RSVP deadline is November 14. Please call (210) 619-1950 to RSVP and pre-pay. After Hours Mixer Hosted by Mattenga’s Pizzeria

November 16

Chamber's Monthly Mixer Join us for The Chamber’s Monthly Mixer. This is a great opportunity to network, mingle with other Chamber Members and a chance to win Chamber cash! This event is FREE for Chamber Members and only $10 general admission; 5:30-7:00 PM. Located at 6044 FM 3009 Ste 290 in Schertz. Chamber/Visitors Center Office Holiday Schedule The Chamber/Visitors Center will be closed November 23-24 in observance of Thanksgiving. We will reopen on Monday, November 27 at 9:00 AM. Have a Happy Thanksgiving! SAVE THE DATE! 6th Annual Health and Wholeness Fair will be January 27, 2018 at the Schertz Civic Center. Naming Sponsor Baptist Emergency Hospital, Partner Sponsor City of Schertz and Presenting Sponsors Schertz Emergency Clinic, Northeast Methodist Hospital, and Legacy at Forest Ridge invite you out to meet our area’s best in medical, nutritional, fitness and general wellness providers! Want to get a great deal on a meal, service, or class? To find up-to-date specials, information and events of our area businesses, go to www.thechamber.info/events/calendar

1730 Schertz Parkway, Schertz Texas 78154 210-619-1950 admincor@thechamber.info www.thechamber.info

TALK OF THE TOWN

SCUCISD Teacher Finalist for Farmers Insurance Grant

Joseph Menchey, the Aquatic Science teacher at Samuel Clemens High School, is a finalist for the Farmers Insurance Dream Big Teacher Challenge, with an opportunity to win a $100,000 grant. Menchey made a proposal to Farmers Insurance titled the Samuel Clemens Water Shed Conservation Project. His proposal encourages his students to do hands-on research regarding the degrading water supply in the nation to better understand what is causing it. His students will have the opportunity to collect water quality data in the state of Texas to then share with local universities, water agencies, and the community to inspire people to be more water wise and conscious. The Farmers Insurance grant would help Menchey adapt his lab room and get the equipment needed to understand and dissect the nation’s water problems and inspire students and the community to take action. “This is my sixth year at Samuel Clemens High School. I put this proposal together because I have always felt a student will love science more if they can truly explore and investigate. I have tried different approaches and continued to evolve my classroom into what I have now. I am sure this process will always be evolving until I can change a large percentage of students to become more science literate,” said Joseph Menchey. The 15 finalists were posted online at the end of September through October 30 for voting to the general public. Based on America’s votes, Farmers Insurance will award five visionary proposals with the most votes with $100,000 each. Winners will be announced in December.

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Schertz' Homestead Neighborhood is Officially Open

TALK OF THE TOWN

Homestead, a master-planned, healthy-living community located in Schertz/Cibolo and planned by Freehold Communities, is officially open and selling homes starting from the $200,000s. The 552-acre development boasts homes by award-winning builders CastleRock Communities, Scott Felder Homes and Pulte Homes. In celebration of the grand opening, the community hosted an Oktoberfest-themed family festival, providing a glimpse of Homestead’s focus on outdoor recreation and community engagement. After hours of fun activities, music and touring model homes, those attending Homestead’s grand opening took a break to enjoy great food, brews and sweets by local vendors. About 500 attendees enjoyed fare by River Hofbrau, dessert by Kona Ice, tastings by New Braunfels Brewing Company and family fun provided by Austin Bounce House, Art For Your Head caricaturists, face painters, balloon artists, photo booth and music. Guests were busy decorating mini-pumpkins and chatting with representatives from the City Schertz Police and Fire Departments during the event. The City of Schertz Police, Fire and Parks, Recreation and Community Services departments were there to greet families and answer any questions about services provided to residents. Guests also relished the opportunity to tour three spectacular model homes and to speak with the builders. A major reason for the big turnout is Homestead’s location along the I-35 corridor, an easy drive to both San Antonio and Austin and near to Randolph Air Force Base, Joint Base San Antonio and major employers such as Amazon.com, Sysco, Caterpillar, General Electric and Brandt Engineering. “Since the first model home opened, visitors to Homestead are initially attracted by the location,” said Suzanne Maddalon, Vice President of Marketing for Freehold Communities. “But, once they explore the property, the location almost takes a back seat to the natural, quiet beauty of the land, timeless home designs and amenities that are designed to encourage outdoor living and engaging with neighbors.” To learn more about Homestead and to sign up for their Founders Club to receive exclusive information, visit LiveHomesteadTX.com.

Photos by Cambrella Photography

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TALK OF THE TOWN

RACAP Holiday Meal Basket Assistance Program 2017 The Randolph Area Christian Assistance Program (RACAP) will accept applications for the Christmas Holiday Meal Basket and assistance program through 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.

Community Supports Hurricane Harvey Victims The devastation caused by Hurricane Harvey hit historic measures. While Schertz was not immediately impacted by Hurricane Harvey, various community businesses and organizations did not hesitate to come together to show support and provide relief efforts. Due to the overwhelming support received in the community, it would be challenging to highlight every resident and business’s contributions. We would like to thank every business and community resident who came together to help fellow Texans in need. With your help, the City was able to partner with North Park Subaru at the Dominion to collect supplies for distribution in the Rockport, Victoria and Houston areas. Vehicles were filled with supplies and deliveries were made weekly during the month of September. Personal items, cleaning products, food and drinks were collected with monetary donations directed to the American Red Cross. Recovery and rebuilding for those effected will be a long process, and our heartfelt thoughts are with them during this difficult time.

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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. If anyone knows of a family in need of this special assistance, have them call (210) 658-1613. 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.

FEATURE

Senior Center Renovations Complete By Kira Villarreal

enior citizens in the Schertz area have reason to celebrate this fall as they enjoy some exciting new changes to the Schertz Area Senior Center. The facility is completing a major expansion and renovation project that will allow the center to better serve the approximately 2,300 seniors that visit each month. The Schertz Area Senior Center opened its doors in 2011 in the former library building at 608 Schertz Parkway. Since then, it has been providing a variety of services designed to help area seniors stay healthy, active, and engaged in their community.

The center conducts health and wellness classes, serves congregate meals five days per week, and offers multiple social activities. Among those are fitness classes, games, crafting, special events, and more. The center is currently managed by the Schertz Family YMCA and has seen steady increases in its membership over the past few years. The recent renovations are helping to meet the demand for additional space, while providing a much-needed facelift to the facility. The updated center offers increased meeting room space for activity

programming, new lighting, ceiling fans, a PA system, and two brand new ADA-compliant restrooms. The entire building has also been repainted, and the fire alarm and sprinkler systems have been replaced. The project has added 2,823 square feet of new programmable space to the center, for a total of 9,000 square feet. Funding for the expansion project was made possible by the 2017 Certificates of Obligation authorized by the City Council. Construction on the project began in early June 2017, at which time the center moved to a temporary facility at Paschal

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Elementary School. By August, the major work was completed, and members began utilizing the renovated space. The center is currently operating the facility under a temporary certificate of occupancy, pending the installation of the fire alarm system controller. “We are pleased to be able to improve and expand the services that we provide to senior citizens in our community,” said Chuck Van Zandt, Director of the City of Schertz Department of Parks, Recreation and Community

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FEATURE Senior Center Renovations Complete cont’d from page 23

Services. “The additional dedicated program space and facility upgrades provided by this project will go a long way toward making the center users feel like their wants and needs are being addressed.” Among the most notable new additions to the facility is a new computer lab/library, featuring a book and magazine collection donated by the local library, as well as four new computer stations, provided by the Wellmed Charitable Foundation. In the future, the center plans to offer computer classes to members in this space. The expansion has also added an additional meeting room and a new Main Studio, which increases the capacity for exercise and fitness classes from 18 to 50 people per class. According to Senior Center Director, Cathy Flocke, the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. The center has always been very receptive to comments and suggestions from its members, and recent feedback indicates that the seniors are thrilled with the changes. “They always mention how clean and bright the facility is,” she said. They love the building updates, the new lighting, and all of the additional space.” Thanks to this additional space, the facility can now accommodate larger numbers of seniors for the most popular programs that they offer and can form new community partnerships with organizations who want to conduct classes and offer activities for its members. The ability to establish new partnerships and allow greater access to the most popular existing programs is what Flocke believes to be the biggest benefit of the renovation project. Those partnerships include the Texas A&M Agrilife Extension Service, which offers nutrition and gardening classes at the center, the AARP Driving School, and the Alamo Area Council of Governments (AACOG), which offers classes for seniors on a wide range of topics. The center has always offered a variety of sports and fitness classes through their own Fun and Fit Program. These include things like yoga, Zumba, and for those wanting to try something a little different – chair volleyball. This less strenuous version of volleyball allows participants to enjoy the fun and excitement of a team sport with less risk of injury and a lot more laughs. But when asked about the most popular activity of everything the center offers, Flocke doesn’t hesitate. “Bingo will always reign supreme,” she says. The center may provide an impressive variety of activities, but Flocke says the benefits to the members reach far beyond that. “One of the biggest issues that we see in the senior population is isolation,” she noted. “Having a place of their own where they can socialize and connect with their peers is so important.” In fact, many of the members are so appreciative of the benefits they have received from the center that they volunteer to teach classes in their areas of expertise or volunteer in other ways. Most of the center’s volunteers are seniors themselves, something that Flocke says is encouraged. The Schertz Area Senior Center is open to anyone 50 years of age or older in Schertz and the surrounding area. Its membership currently encompasses a wide variety of individuals from the Schertz community, as well as San Antonio, New Braunfels, Universal City, Selma, Canyon Lake, Cibolo and other areas. Memberships are $36 per year for individuals or $62 per year for couples. For more information or to enquire about membership, please call the center at (210) 619-1970.

NOVEMBER 2017

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FEATURE

Affordable Housing Made Possible By Lucille Sims Thomas

he Schertz Housing Authority takes very seriously its mission of providing a clean, safe, and decent place for elderly, disabled and low-income residents to live. With Executive Director, Mynette Benedict at the helm, the public, nonprofit entity strives daily to make sure that mission is met. As Executive Director, Benedict oversees the whole program to include the public housing and the capital fund program. Benedict has been with SHA since 2003 and became its Executive Director in 2005. She loves helping people try to improve their lives and representing SHA. SHA was established in June of 1969 after some Schertz citizens saw a need for low-income housing in the community and urged the city to approve the organization of the housing authority. “It’s wonderful how the community came together when they saw the need for low-income housing because there was no low-income housing here in the ’60’s,” Benedict said. The first units to open were the Roy Richard Villas in 1975. The complex contains 26 units and was followed by another 50 units that opened at the Clyde Ford Village in 1977. These 76 units are on four sites and are for use by seniors 62 and older and disabled people and their families. The Schertz Housing Authority (SHA) is a local government organization formed under the Texas Local Government Code Chapter 392, which outlines the rights, responsibilities, and powers of housing authorities. The mayor of Schertz appoints five commissioners to a board, and they are responsible for

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FEATURE Affordable Housing Made Possible cont’d from page 25 setting the rules, the policy and hiring the director. The director oversees SHA and ensures it is in compliance with state, local and federal laws. “We have a wonderful board of commissioners. We can’t do what we need to without them setting up the policy and holding us accountable,” Benedict said. The Schertz City Council supports various organizations throughout the area. Since at least 2000, the City has provided $5,000 per year to Guadalupe Regional Medical Center in Seguin to assist in the provision of prescriptions to needy Schertz residents. The City also provides support in the amount of $5,000 annually to CASA to assist children in foster care. Schertz Council is a strong advocate for the Schertz Housing Authority as they see a significant need for quality, affordable housing in the community. Council’s dedication to the program will provide funding that will allow SHA to continue to operate and provide services. “The City has been very cooperative working with us regarding some of the physical needs of the properties. We have enjoyed a very professional and personable partnership with the City and all of the different department staff in maintaining the Public Housing properties and services. We are in this together and our program reflects directly on the City’s reputation for

providing exemplary quality of life by taking care of our elderly and low-income families," said Benedict. "It is most exciting, and greatly appreciated, to receive official City cooperation in supporting our endeavor in helping our Schertz Community Citizens. Recently the Schertz City Council, at the recommendation from our new SHA Board City Liaison and Councilman Mark Davis, approved an Interlocal Government Agreement. This means that the City Council has officially recognized the positive impact the Schertz Housing Authority has in our Community by donating $5,000 to our program helping our efforts in providing housing stability for low-income families." The housing authority’s jurisdiction covers six cities: Schertz, Cibolo, Universal City, Selma, parts of Converse and parts of Live Oak.

“The way the geographical boundaries are – we overlap with other counties and cities so we do have some jurisdictional boundaries,” Benedict said. In light of rising housing costs and the growing population, the Schertz Housing authority provides a critical public purpose in providing housing assistance, including operating a number of housing complexes and administering housing voucher programs in the area. Without the Schertz Housing authority providing this service, many residents in need would not have local access to housing assistance programs. SHA’s public housing units are frequently commended on their appearance since they are well maintained and do not fit the look that often comes to mind when people think of public housing. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) representatives have also been very complimentary on how well SHA housing is maintained. The housing authority also gets compliments on how they run the program from a business and compliance perspective. “All we can do is work on each one, work with them one on one, treat them with respect and help them improve their lives. That’s our charge – we’re responsible for the taxpayer’s money and we take our charge here very seriously.” If you would like to learn more about the Schertz Housing Authority or would like to show support, please contact Mynette Benedict at (210) 658-1001.

NOVEMBER 2017

schertzmagazine.com

FEATURE

How Drone Operators and Airfields Share the Sky By JBSA-Randolph 12th Flying Training Wing Public Affairss

mall, unmanned aircraft systems, often called drones, are becoming increasingly popular. Drones are easily purchased and make good gifts for hobbyists and commercial users alike. Recent improvements in technology help operators fly their drones higher, faster, longer, and further than ever. Additionally, drones are getting heavier and larger in size. For all their benefits and increased performance, it should also be noted that drones pose hazards to pilots of manned aircraft and the public. At Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph (Randolph Air Force Base), drones are a serious flight safety and security concern, and Air Force pilots have recently observed drones in local airspace above populated areas. Any mid-air collision would have been catastrophic, and any evasive maneuvering required by the pilot also puts everyone at risk. To help minimize the risk of an accident, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) established guidelines to help drone operators, the public, and pilots.

continued on page 28 schertzmagazine.com

NOVEMBER 2017

5 miles of JBSA Randolph? FEATURE How Drone Operator and Airfields Share the Sky cont’d from page 27 Commercial users (those people who operate drones for profit) must request a waiver to fly within five miles of any airport, this includes Randolph Air Force Base. The vast majority of drone operators, however, are hobbyists. To ensure safety for all involved, hobbyists should contact JBSA-Randolph before flying within five (5) miles of the air force base. Hobbyists do not require a waiver or permission before operating their drones, but they are required to notify the airport and air traffic control. A call to (210) 652-7827 helps the Air Force inform drone operators of potential hazards and provides information detailing the activity and pattern location of manned aircraft. A drone operator must also continuously adhere to certain restrictions. The FAA requires drone operators to maintain visual contact with their aircraft at all times. Drone operators must yield right-of-way to manned aircraft (stay well clear). Additionally, a special security instruction prohibits drones from flying within the confines of JBSA-Randolph itself. For everyone, the adage of “see something, say something” applies. Call (210) 652-7827 or other public safety officials if you see anything questionable about safe flight near JBSA-Randolph. Flying should be safe, fun, and productive for everyone!

Want to fly your drone within Please contact 5 miles of JBSA Randolph?

Joint Base San Antonio at Please contact 210-652-SUAS Joint Base San Antonio at 210-652-SUAS

ForFor more please visit moreinformation, information, please visit https://www.faa.gov/uas https://www.faa.gov/uas http://www.jbsa.mil http://www.jbsa.mil

For non-drone related contact, call Public Affairs at 210-652-1272

Are You Ready for the November 7 Election?

NOTICE OF GENERAL ELECTION

To the registered voters of the City of Schertz: Notice is hereby given that the polling places listed in this section will be open from 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM, November 7, 2017, for voting in the general election to elect Councilmembers for Place 3, Place 4 , and Place 5. October 23, 2017 is the first day in which early voting begins and ends November 3, 2017. Below are the locations for early voting in the General Election for the City of Schertz

Guadalupe & Comal County Early Voting Polling Locations SEGUIN ELECTIONS OFFICE 215 S. Milam St., Seguin, TX 78155 GRACE MEMORIAL CHURCH 3240 FM 725, New Braunfels, TX CENTRAL TEXAS TECHNOLOGY CENTER Room 118 Conference Room, 2189 FM 758 New Braunfels, TX SCHERTZ ELECTIONS OFFICE ANNEX 1101 Elbel Road, Schertz, TX NEW BERLIN CITY HALL 9180 FM 775, New Berlin, TX

Guadalupe & Comal County Early Voting Dates & Times

Guadalupe & Comal County Early Voting by Mail

Monday, October 23 through Friday, October 27, 2017 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Applications for ballot by mail shall be mailed to: Guadalupe County Early Voting Clerk, Lisa Adam P.O. Box 1346, Seguin, Texas 78156-1346

Saturday, October 28, 2017 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM Sunday, October 29, 2017 1:00 PM - 6:00 PM Monday, October 30 through Friday, November 3, 2017 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Applications for ballots by mail must be received no later than the close of business on October 28, 2017. October 9, 2017 last day for submitting voter registration application in time to vote in the upcoming November 7, 2017 election or for requesting transfer of registration in time to vote.

For more information contact Lisa Adam, Guadalupe County Election Administrator, at (830) 303-6363. schertzmagazine.com

NOVEMBER 2017

CIVIC NEWZ

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Bexar County - Early Voting Polling Locations BEXAR COUNTY ELECTIONS DEPARTMENT 1103 S. Frio 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 CONVERSE CITY HALL CONFERENCE ROOM 405 S. Seguin Rd COPERNICUS COMMUNITY CENTER 5003 Lord Rd. ENCINO BRANCH LIBRARY 2515 EAST EVANS RD FAIR OAKS RANCH CITY HALL (COUNCIL CHAMBERS) 7286 Dietz Elkhorn 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 JULIA YATES SEMMES LIBRARY @ Comanche Lookout Park 15060 Judson Road LAS PALMAS LIBRARY 515 Castroville Road LEON VALLEY CONFERENCE CENTER 6421 Evers Rd LION’S FIELD 2809 Broadway MAURY MAVERICK, JR. LIBRARY 8700 Mystic Park MCCRELESS LIBRARY 1023 Ada Street MEMORIAL LIBRARY 3222 Culebra MISSION LIBRARY 3134 Roosevelt Ave. NORTHSIDE ACTIVITY CENTER 7001 Culebra OLMOS CITY HALL 120 El Prado W

PARMAN LIBRARY @Stone Oak 20735 Wilderness Oak

NOVEMBER 2017

Monday, October 23 through Friday, October 27, 2017 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

PRECINCT 1 SATELLITE OFFICE 3505 Pleasanton Rd.

Saturday, October 28, 2017 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

SCHAEFER LIBRARY 6322 US Hwy 87 E

Sunday, October 29, 2017 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM

SHAVANO PARK CITY HALL (COUNCIL CHAMBERS) 900 Saddletree Ct

Monday, October 30 through Wednesday, November 1, 2017 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

SOMERSET HIGH SCHOOL 7650 South 1604 West, Somerset

Thursday, November 2 through Friday, November 3, 2017 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM

SOUTH PARK MALL 2310 S.W. Military TOBIN LIBRARY @OAKWELL 4134 Harry Wurzbach UNIVERSAL CITY CITY HALL 2150 Universal City Blvd. WINDCREST TAKAS PARK CIVIC CENTER 9310 Jim Seal Dr. WONDERLAND MALL OF THE AMERICAS @ CROSSROADS 4522 Fredericksburg

Information is subject to change. For more information contact the office of the Bexar County Elections Administrator, Jacquelyn F. Callanen, at (210) 335-VOTE (8683)

Bexar County Early Voting Dates and Times

schertzmagazine.com

Bexar County Early Voting by Mail

Applications for ballot by mail shall be mailed to: Bexar County Early Voting Clerk, Jacque Callanen 1103 S. Frio, Ste. 100 San Antonio, Texas 78207-9950. Applications for ballots by mail must be received no later than the close of business on October 28, 2017. October 9, 2017 last day for submitting voter registration application in time to vote in the upcoming November 7, 2017 election or for requesting transfer of registration in time to vote.

FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO SCHERTZ.COM.

ELECTION DAY

Guadalupe County - City of Schertz:

Polling places listed below will be open from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, November 7, 2017 for voting in the general election to elect Councilmembers for Place 3, Place 4 , and Place 5. Guadalupe County is participating in the Countywide Polling Place Program (Vote Centers) which means that Guadalupe County Election Day voters may now vote at ANY Guadalupe County Election Day Polling Location. It is no longer necessary to vote in the voting precinct in which you reside. MCQUEENEY LIONS CLUB 3211 FM 78, McQueeney VOGEL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 16121 FM 725, Seguin REMARKABLE HEALTHCARE 1339 Eastwood Dr., Seguin FOREST HILLS BAPTIST CHURCH 8251 FM 1117, Seguin JUSTICE OF THE PEACE COURT, PCT 1 2405 E. US Hwy 90, Seguin KINGSBURY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 7035 FM 2438, Kingsbury STAPLES CIVIC CENTER 9615 FM 621, Staples MARANATHA FELLOWSHIP HALL 2356 S. Hwy. 80, Luling JACKSON PARK STUDENT ACTIVITY CENTER 824 Fleming Dr., Seguin GRACE MEMORIAL CHURCH 3240 FM 725, New Braunfels

OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE CHURCH ANNEX 730 N. Guadalupe St. Seguin

SCHERTZ UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3460 Roy Richard Dr., Schertz

WESTSIDE BAPTIST CHURCH 1208 N. Vaughan St., Seguin

SELMA CITY HALL 9375 Corporate Dr., Selma

AMERICAN LEGION HALL 618 E. Kingsbury, Seguin

CROSSPOINT FELLOWSHIP CHURCH 2600 Roy Richard Drive, Schertz

GERONIMO COMMUNITY CENTER 280 Navarro Dr, Geronimo

IMMACULATE CONCEPTION CATHOLIC CHURCH 212 N. Barnett St., Marion

ST. JOSEPH’S MISSION 5093 Redwood Rd., San Marcos

SCHERTZ COMMUNITY CENTER 1400 Schertz Parkway, Schertz

THE SILVER CENTER 510 E. Court St., Seguin

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS HALL 509 Schertz Pkwy., Schertz

CENTRAL TEXAS TECHNOLOGY CENTER Room 118 Conf. Room 2189 FM 758, New Braunfels

SCHERTZ COMMUNITY CENTER NORTH 3501 Morning Dr., Cibolo

FORMER CITY OF SEGUIN-GUADALUPE COUNTY LIBRARY 707 E. College St., Seguin SANTA CLARA CITY HALL 1653 N. Santa Clara Rd., Santa Clara

MCQUEENEY VFW POST 9213 275 Gallagher, McQueeney

MARION DOLFORD LEARNING CENTER 200 W. Schlather Lane, Cibolo

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS HALL 1015 S. Austin Street, Seguin

SCHERTZ ELECTIONS OFFICE 1101 Elbel Rd., Schertz

Comal County - City of Schertz Precinct 202 and Precinct 301 WESTSIDE COMMUNITY CENTER 2932 S. IH 35, New Braunfels, 78130

ST. JOHN'S LUTHERAN CHURCH 606 S. Center St., Marion NEW BERLIN CITY HALL 9180 FM 775, New Berlin KLEIN ROAD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 2620 W. Klein Road, New Braunfels ELAINE S. SCHLATHER INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL 230 Elaine S. Schlather Pkwy., Cibolo

Bexar County - City of Schertz Precinct 4087, 4126, and 4127 RAY D. CORBETT JUNIOR HIGH 12000 Ray Corbett Drive

schertzmagazine.com

NOVEMBER 2017

CIVIC NEWZ

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Schertz Parkway Reconstruction Updates Capital Excavation began work on the Schertz Parkway reconstruction project in the early part of October 2017. The project requires removal of existing asphalt pavement from Maske Road to E. Live Oak Road and the installation of new concrete pavement. The existing asphalt multi-use path that runs along Schertz Parkway will be removed and replaced with a new asphalt path. East Live Oak Road will also

be widened to add a right turn lane.

•

John Nowak, P.E., one of the City’s engineers says, “The project is providing a much stronger pavement section, capable of holding up to higher traffic volumes and heavier vehicles. The new concrete pavement will also have a longer service life than asphalt.”

• • • •

Responsible City Department: Engineering Department Contractor: Capital Excavation Budget: $934,258.85 Project Start: October 2, 2017 Anticipated completion date: March 30, 2018

Look for project updates on the City of Schertz Facebook page and Schertz.com.

schertzmagazine.com

NOVEMBER 2017

CIVIC NEWZ

Your Exclusive Source for News from the City of Schertz

Original Animal Shelter Memorial Relocates In April 2014 the Schertz Animal Adoption Center opened its doors. Years and years of hard work and fundraising went into the beautiful facility you see today. This September a memorial dedication rock was reinstalled at the new location in memory of Warren Keller who had a major impact in the growth and development of the Schertz Humane Society and the Schertz Animal Adoption Center. Warren Keller was President of the Schertz Humane Society and passed away before getting to see the Borgfeld Road shelter come to life. Warren’s wife Ruth asked to have

the memorial placed in his honor with the support of the Schertz Humane Society. The rock reads, “This rock is dedicated to the memory of Warren Keller. Like this rock, Warren was immovable in his dream of a new animal control facility for the City of Schertz. The dream he had is now fulfilled. Warren L. Keller 1937-1990.” Warren and Ruth were great supporters and volunteers for the Schertz Humane Society and were essential in the development of the shelter throughout the years.

The Schertz Animal Control Center began with just two kennels that were placed near the Police Department and then grew to a large 15 kennels at a new facility off of FM 1518. With Warren’s dream and persistence, he was able to aid in the development of the 5,400 square foot animal shelter on Borgfeld Road, which housed 44 kennels. The property was purchased from the Gutierrez Family, and with combined funds from the City and the Marguerite Doe Foundation, the dream facility became a reality. Through the hard work of

schertzmagazine.com

Warren and Ruth Keller, as well as support from several community members, the Schertz Humane Society was able to finance 100% of the equipment needed to make the facility fully-functional. The current animal shelter is a 12,300 square foot facility and has space for 90 kennels, which doubles the size of the Borgfeld Rd. facility. Now with the memorial in place we can reflect back at the amazing work of Warren Keller and how he helped enable Schertz Animal Services to ensure the best comfort and care possible for the animals of Schertz.

NOVEMBER 2017

CIVIC NEWZ

Your Exclusive Source for News from the City of Schertz

EMS Basic Field Training Officer Course In August, Schertz EMS hosted a Basic Field Training Officer Course. EMS Director, Jason Mabbitt and Field Training Officer, Brandon Hill, who are National Instructors, taught the 42 person course. Earlier this year Jason and Brandon finished teaching all of the Field Training Officers for Mayo Clinic-Gold Cross ground ambulance in Rochester, Minnesota. The program is structured for transiting new employees in to the EMS agency and is a National program sponsored by NEMSMA (National EMS Management Association).

EMS Passport To Care Enrollment Schertz EMS is taking applications for its Passport to Care program, which can reduce the cost of an emergency ambulance transport. Passport to Care allows citizens to pre-plan for emergencies. Nobody ever plans to have an accident or a medical emergency and to have to dial 911 for an ambulance. As a result, these events are always accompanied by unplanned and often very expensive medical costs. Schertz EMS has a plan to help you avoid some of these expenses. Passport to Care Plan: If you have insurance that covers ambulance transportation and are transported by Schertz EMS, you may have ZERO out-ofpocket expenses for that transport. If you do not have insurance or your insurance says the ambulance transport was not necessary, you will receive an automatic 50% discount off your ambulance bill, and with our average transport bill checking in at approximately $1,600, this is a potential savings of $800. So, for the price of $50 to $75 annually, you can now rest assured that if you or a member of your family has a medical emergency, transportation to the hospital will be taken care of potentially with no cost to you. No co-pay, no deductible and no out-ofpocket expenses. The plan would be unnecessary for Medicaid recipients. Cost: $50 for an individual (Insured) $60 for family (Insured) $65 for individual (uninsured) $75 for family (uninsured) For more information on the Passport to Care program, go to Schertzemspassport.com or call (210) 619-1450.

NOVEMBER 2017

schertzmagazine.com

Participants from the region included Schertz EMS, San Marcos/ Hays County EMS, Fredericksburg Fire/EMS, North Blanco County EMS, Universal City FD, Canyon Lake FD/EMS, University Health EMS, Superior Care Ambulance, Uvalde EMS, Helotes FD, Leon Springs FD, Kerrville FD/EMS and District 7 FD. Schertz EMS has been conducting FTEP for their new medics for the last 9 years. All new EMS employees are assigned a Field Training Officer for their first 1,000 hours. “It’s important that all of our medics not only get trained on how to be a Schertz Paramedic, but to also be evaluated for their performance,” says EMS Director, Jason Mabbitt. Next month Jason and Brandon will head to Newport News, Virginia to teach the course to the local Fire Department. The National EMS Management Association oversees the EMSFTEP™, the Emergency Medical Services Field Training and Evaluation Program. The program, which has existed in the EMS community for over 15 years, is based on the “San Jose Model” field training and evaluation program that is ubiquitous in the law enforcement community. The following agencies were represented in the most recent course:

Economic Development Hosts Manufacturing Day As the nation celebrated National Manufacturing Day on October 6, 2017, a large crowd of business leaders, students and government officials gathered inside the training room of Caltex Protective Coatings, located in Schertz. Manufacturing Day is an occasion during which North American manufactures open their doors to showcase the potential of modern manufacturing and foster interest in manufacturing careers. The event gave Schertz residents the chance to see the inner workings of a modern manufacturing facility and exposed residents to careers in manufacturing that they may have never considered. CalTex CEO, Bob Pruitt provided a warm welcome and an overview of the company which did well last year, selling more than 800,000 gallons of products. Afterwards he and his leadership team provided plant tours that showed how chemistry and nanotechnology are used to make automobile protective coatings to dealerships and body shops across the nation. In addition to the plant tour, guests were treated to a student-led robotics demonstration and visited the Workforce on Wheels bus where they learned about employer services available through Workforce Solutions Alamo and training programs through the Alamo Colleges Corporate College program. Schertz Mayor Michael R. Carpenter prerecorded a video message where he reinforced the city’s commitment to support manufacturing. “Schertz, has a deep appreciation for manufacturing which does not occur just one day of the year. It is a planned, long-term commitment and process that involves many stakeholders and encompasses numerous activities that include manufacturing roundtables and workforce development initiatives,” Carpenter said. “As the manufacturing industry faces challenges in the future, most notably recruiting talent and educating the community that manufacturing facilities are filled with highly trained, well-paid employees who work on technical equipment know that you have a commitment from the Schertz City Council, City Staff and Economic Development Corporation – a commitment to listen, to remove barriers that keep you from being competitive and build and sustain a strong infrastructure. Thank you for doing you part, building great products and strengthening our economy. Strong manufacturing companies make Schertz strong,” Carpenter said. Manufacturing Day is an annual event and will fall on Friday, October 5, 2018. Mark your calendars as we plan another exciting opportunity to reinforce the message that manufacturing offers excellent career options.

schertzmagazine.com

NOVEMBER 2017

Let’s Tackle the Grease in This Kitchen! Why should I help?

• Prevent grease buildups from blocking sewer lines. • Stop sewer overflows into streets and storm drains. • Save money spent on costly cleanups of sewage spills. • Reduce the number of times you have to clean your grease trap (food service). • Protect the quality of our water.

DON’T!

DO!

Don’t pour oil and grease down the drain.

Put oil and grease in covered collection containers.

Scrape food scraps from dishes into trash cans and garbage bags and dispose of properly. Avoid using your garbage disposal.

Use environmentally safe cleaning products instead of harsh detergents or cleaners that can damage sewer lines. If you generate large amounts of used cooking oil, reuse or recycle it. To find a recycler, check the phone book under “recyclers” or “rendering companies.” If you generate small amounts of used cooking oil, reuse it as often as possible and then pour it into a container you can throw away. Never pour it down the drain.

▲

Cover floor drain with fine screen and empty into garbage can as needed.

More Ways to Tackle Grease

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Cover kitchen sink with catch basket and empty into garbage can as needed.

Don’t rinse off oil and grease with hot water.

▲

Prewash dishes and pans with cold water before putting them in the dishwasher.

Start a compost pile at your home with scraps that are not meat. The TCEQ publication Mulching and Composting: A “Take Care of Texas” Guide (GI-36) provides basic information to get you started.

For more information, contact the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) Small Business & Local Government Assistance Section 1-800-447-2827 • TexasEnviroHelp.org

printed on recycled paper using vegetable-based ink

HOT

▲

➠

COLD

Don’t run water over dishes,pans, fryers,and griddles to wash oil and grease down the drain.

➠

Remove oil and grease from dishes, pans, fryers, and griddles. Cool first before you skim, scrape, or wipe off excess grease.

Don’t put food scraps down the drain.

TakeCareOfTexas.org

The TCEQ is an equal opportunity employer. The agency does not allow discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, or veteran status. How is our customer service? www.tceq.texas.gov/customersurvey

GI-290 (Revised 8/13)

CIVIC NEWZ

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Volunteers Needed The City is seeking board members to fill a two-year term for both the Planning & Zoning Commission and the Parks & Recreation Advisory Board. Contact the City Secretaryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office at (210) 619-1030, for additional information or go online at www.schertz.com to complete an application. Applicants must have a strong sense of integrity, commitment, and dedication to implementing our mission in the community and have resided in the city for at least 12 months. The City Council shall confirm nominations for appointment to the board or commission in order for the appointment to be effective.

Sewer Averaging Will Affect Residents 2017-2018 Bills Sewer averaging for the winter months began on October 24, 2017 and will continue through March 6, 2018 for cycle billing. Water usage over this period determine your sewer charge for the next billing year, which begins April 1. The water usage readings will be averaged and the average per thousand gallon usage per month will be multiplied by $4.04. That total will be added to the base rate of $11.72 for residents with an average below 12,000 gallons. For residents with usage greater than 12,001 gallons, the first 12,000 gallons will be multiplied by $4.04 and the portion of the average above 12,000 gallons will be multiplied by $8.76 and that total will be added to the base rate of $11.72 for residential use. The final calculation result will be your sewer charge for the next 12 months. For more information, visit Schertz.com or call (210) 619-1100

schertzmagazine.com

NOVEMBER 2017

CIVIC NEWZ

Your Exclusive Source for News from the City of Schertz

Planning & Community Development

From the Development Whiteboard Water Heater Safety

By: Gilbert Durant, Chief Building Official be up to 18 inches above the floor. The water heater electrical connections can spark and ignite these fumes.

Electrical and Plumbing Contractors have used dryer cords with the installation of water heaters for the past few years and believed this was a safe installation. At first glance, the cord would appear to be acceptable until you actually look at how the dryer cord is approved for use. A clothes dryer is a noncontinuous duty appliance as defined by the National Electrical Code (NEC). A water heater is defined as a continuous duty appliance. Continuous Duty, in this case, means it heats water longer than 3 hours or more daily; whereas a clothes dryer may only run intermittently for an hour or two and is considered a non-continuous duty appliance. Intertek Electrical Testing Laboratories (ETL) and Underwriters Laboratories (UL) have tested many dryer cords and listed them for use only with clothes dryers. Water heaters over 20 gallons are considered fixed storage units and the NEC requires them to be connected by a “hard wire” or permanent electrical system and not by a flexible appliance cord.

NOVEMBER 2017

Can I repair or replace my own water heater?

Why can’t I just run an electrical cable to the water heater?

will cause the receptacle in the wall to fail which can lead to a fire in your home.

Non-Metallic cable alone cannot be used to make the connection to the water heater because it cannot be secured or supported correctly. It must be in a flexible raceway or conduit not longer than 3 feet.

Why do you have to raise an electric water heater off the floor in a garage?

What can happen if I use a dryer cord to plug in a water heater? The commonly found issues are the plastic cord cap fails as evidenced by a discoloration or blacking of the prongs and plastic cap. This damaged cap

schertzmagazine.com

This requirement came about due to a few garage fires caused by gasoline fumes which can

Gilbert Durant, Chief Building Official The Chief Building Official ensures a safe and healthy environment for the general public by inspecting structures to ensure that City building codes are met. The Chief Building Official oversees the daily operations of the Inspections Division.

If you have a homestead, as defined by the county you live in, you can legally repair, replace or install a water heater in your own primary home. You will still have to obtain a City Permit and request an inspection. You cannot get a permit and then have someone else do the work. This violates Texas Law. The City recommends the use of Texas Licensed Contractors who have met the education and insurance requirements as established by Texas and Municipal Codes for all water heater related work.

Schertz Receives Financial Reporting Excellence Award The City of Schertz Finance department has received the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) for its comprehensive annual financial report (CAFR). This is the 32nd time in a row the City has received such achievement.

Schertz Appoints City Prosecutor Akers to Municipal Court The City of Schertz has appointed Floyd Martin Akers to serve as the Municipal City Prosecutor. City Council voted 6-1 at the October 10 City Council meeting to appoint Floyd Akers as the City Prosecutor. Akers was among 18 applicants for the position. Floyd Akers has served as Municipal Judge for the City of Bryan, TX and has also served as City Attorney and/or City Prosecutor for various municipal governments to include, Pflugerville, New Braunfels, and San Antonio. He currently serves the cities of Martindale and Hearne as City Prosecutor and City Attorney. Akers received his Bachelor of Science from the University of Wyoming and his Doctorate of Jurisprudence from the University of Wyoming, College of Law. Floyd Akers will serve effective immediately. Prosecutor Akers will be replacing Darrell Dullnig, former City Prosecutor, who now serves as City Judge.

The Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management. The CAFR has been judged by an impartial panel to meet the high standards of the program, which includes demonstrating a constructive spirit of full disclosure to clearly communicate its financial story and motivate potential users and user groups to read the CAFR. Government Finance Officers Association is a major professional association servicing the needs of nearly 19,000 appointed and elected local, state, and provincial-level government officials and other finance practitioners.

schertzmagazine.com

NOVEMBER 2017

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CIVIC NEWZ

Your Exclusive Source for News from the City of Schertz

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

•

All brush and tree limbs must be at the front of the curb of the billing address

•

ABSOLUTELY NO TREE STUMPS PLACED ON TOP OF LIMBS.

•

Stack brush and tree limbs neatly for easy access

•

NO parked cars clear of brush pile

•

All brush must be curbside by 7:30 am on date of scheduled service.

DO NOT stack brush piles fore than 5ft in height.

•

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.

•

The following items will NOT be picked up:

X • LUMBER X • PALM TREE LIMBS X • CACTUS LIMBS OF ANY KIND X • HOUSEHOLD TRASH. ETC.

This is a residential service only. 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 $40.00 per half hour will be assessed for pickup and chipping (charge will appear on customer water bill).

schertzmagazine.com

NOVEMBER 2017

CIVIC NEWZ LOOKING BACK November QUOTE OF NOTE “It is by those who have suffered that the world is most advanced”

LOCAL HISTORY

In November 1962, Schertz City Council passed a resolution allowing submission of a $100,000.00 bond package to the voters that would finance the purchase of the Schertz Water Works Corp. The voters passed the bond package and the sale eventually went through. The City of Schertz added a third well and pumping station that secured water for the city into the future.

TEXAS HISTORY

On November 25, 1850, the Texas governor signed the Compromise of 1850 in which Texas gave up claimed land, more of half of which included areas of what is now New Mexico, Colorado , Oklahoma and Wyoming in exchange for the United States assumption of a $10 million debt. On November 1, 1835, a ‘consultation” convened at San Felipe and on November 7th the delegates agreed to establish a provincial government. On November 14, 1835, the Texas Rangers organization was officially established by the Texas provincial government.

Presented by the Schertz Historical Preservation Committee in the interest of historical perspective and community awareness of local historical legacies.

NOVEMBER 2017

schertzmagazine.com

#INFO IMPORTANT SCHERTZ

PHONE NUMBERS Schertz City Council Mayor: Michael Carpenter

Council Members: 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

IMPORTANT SCHERTZ WEBSITES

schertz.com visitschertz.com schertzmagazine.com Like us on Facebook

NOVEMBER 5

Library Advisory Board, 6:30 PM Schertz Public Library

City Council Meeting, 6:00 PM Council Chambers

Parks & Rec Advisory Board, 5:30 PM Bob Andrews Conference Room

Election Day

2017

CITY CALENDAR

Transportation Safety Advisory Commission, 5:30 PM Council Chambers

City Council Meeting, 6:00 PM Council Chambers

Planning and Zoning, 6:00 PM Council Chambers

SSLGC Meeting, 1:30 PM SSLGC Administrative Building

City Council Meeting, 6:00 PM Council Chambers

Hal Baldwin Golf Tournament, Olympia Hills Golf & Conference Center

Veterans Day Holiday (Offices Closed)

Veterans Day

Economic Development Corporation, 6:30 PM Council Chambers

Thanksgiving Holiday (Offices Closed)

Board of Adjustments, 6:00PM Council Chambers

Be sure to check out vizitschertz.com for more event information! Meeting locations may change, please visit the calendar at www.schertz.com for more information.

Thanksgiving Holiday (Offices Closed)

PUBLIC AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT 1400 SCHERTZ PARKWAY SCHERTZ, TEXAS 78154