TO
YOU
APRIL 2018
BY
THE
CITY
OF
SCHERTZ,
TEXAS
magazine
BROUGHT
TABLE OF CONTENTS
06 15 16
City Headlines Library Parks & Recreation
22 29 47
Features Around the Community Calendar
FEATURES City Council Michael Carpenter Mayor Mark Davis Councilmember Ralph Gutierrez Councilmember Scott Larson Councilmember Cedric Edwards Councilmember David Scagliola Councilmember Angelina Kiser Councilmember Bert Crawford Councilmember
Executive Team Brian James Acting City Manager Dudley Wait Executive Director Kyle Kinateder Executive Director Sarah Gonzalez Assistant to the City Manager
Mission Leading, improving, and serving a livable, sustainable, and financially sound community.
Vision Community.Service.Opportunity.
Core Values Treat others the way you would want to be treated Do the right thing
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Local Resident Named Pet Sitter of the Year
24
Fire Station #3 Gains Momentum
De the best you can Work cooperatively as a team
About Our Magazine Schertz Magazine is a monthly popular lifestyle/entertainment/ community events publication wholly owned and operated by the City of Schertz and produced internally by the Schertz Public Affairs Department. It serves as the primary dissemination source for government information for a growing city of 38,000 residents. Today, Schertz Magazine is the leading publication in the Tri County area with a circulation of 15,000 copies; including 13,000+ direct mailed and 500+ subscriptions from Austin through San Antonio and around the country (including dozens of out-of-state readers). The magazine is mailed to 12,000+ local households and over 1,000 businesses with hundreds of copies made available at local and regional banks, hospitals and clinics, schools, pharmacies, and restaurants.
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Anneka Dahle Wins Dog Championship
VOLUME 34 ISSUE 4 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, Lucille Thomas, Emily Grobe, Kellie Burnam, Lauren Shrum, Elizabeth Bertoia, Kira Villarreal, Stacey Lovett, Chuck McCollough
Contributing Photographers
H
Melissa Geedman
appy Spring Schertz community! I’m sure many would agree that this beautiful weather we’ve been experiencing has been nothing but amazing, and what better way to welcome spring than by getting outdoors and soaking up the Texas sunshine! Schertz is a prime community for getting outside and being active, and we are always looking for ways to provide healthy opportunities for you and your family. Be sure to check out the upcoming events taking place throughout April, including the inaugural Movin on Main event.
Parks are also a great way to get some exercise in while enjoying time with family and friends outside. Dive into the Schertz Parks and Recreation FUN Guide for your all-inclusive look into Schertz’ parks and recreational programs going on throughout the year. You know, parks aren’t just for humans! In fact, did you know Schertz had a dog park? Bring your furry child out to the dog park for a nice walk or good round of fetch- they’ll be sure to love it!
This Issue of Schertz Magazine has a lot of pet friendly highlights we’re excited to share. Two of the feature stories are entertaining reads about the impact of a pet-human relationship. In one article we’re recognizing local business, Cathy’s Critter Care, for their recent achievement of Pet Sitter of the Year. Also enjoy a good read about local student, Anneka Dahle, and her canines recently being named champions. Not a pet owner yet? Well you certainly can be, and we’re here to help. April 30 is designated as National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day, and Schertz Animal Services is ready to help you add a furry friend to your family. Come stop by the Animal Shelter to meet our wonderful selection of shelter animals and bring one home to call your own. Enjoy this and so much more in this month's issue! On a side note, we'd like to thank everyone for their support for the last decade. Schertz Magazine celebrates its 10th Anniversary Issue this month, and we couldn't have done it without the support of the community.
Melissa Geedman Communications Manager
SCHERTZ.COM
Melissa Geedman, Devan Flores, Emily Grobe, Stacey Lovett, Chuck McCollough, Ares and Emzy Photography, Baelyn Grell, Josh Nolden, Joe Herczeg Schertz Magazine is published monthly by the Public Affairs Department of the City of Schertz promoting city, community, and business activities. Our mailing address is 1400 Schertz Parkway, Schertz, Texas 78154. © City of Schertz, Texas The editorial office of Schertz Magazine is at 1400 Schertz Parkway, Schertz, Texas 78154. Call (210) 619-1630. Fax (210) 619-1619. Website is schertz.com and schertzmagazine.com
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.
City
Headlines
Raising Awareness for Child Abuse and Sexual Assault April has been designated National Child Abuse Prevention Month as well as National Sexual Assault Awareness Month. To raise awareness, Schertz Police Department's Regional Crime Victim Liaison, Nicole Douglass will be presenting proclamations to the City Councils of Schertz, Live Oak, and Cibolo. All three cities will be signing proclamations for Child Abuse Awareness/Prevention Month, Sexual Assault Awareness/Prevention Month, and National Crime Victims Rights Week. The proclamation for Schertz will take place at the April 10 meeting.
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Schertz Magazine April 2018
On April 5, 2018 Cardboard Kids will appear all around the San Antonio area, each one representing one of the thousands of children who suffer abuse and neglect at the hands of adults in Bexar County every year. Join the effort in creating a cardboard kid of your own. You can pick up a cardboard kid cutout at the Schertz PD to decorateremember to be as creative as possible! For more information about the ChildSafe Cardboard Kids campaign go to cardboardkidssa.com.
Firefighter Honored for Life Saved Firefighter Justin Schwersinske was honored by The 100 Club of Comal County for his actions which saved a Houston police officer’s life during flooding from Hurricane Harvey. He is pictured with his lovely wife, Christianna Yanni Schwersinske. Justin was also honored at the Houston Police Department Awards and Commendations Ceremony where he was presented with a Public Service Award. Schertz Fire Rescue is proud to have Schwersinske as one of their own.
City
“What’s Developing in Schertz”
Headlines
A New Schertz.Com Feature
Recently the Planning & Community Development – Planning Division and the GIS Department created a new Schertz.com website feature, What’s Developing in Schertz. This webpage was created using interactive mapping and current developments within the City.
including dirt work, begins residents can review the webpage and learn more about what will be taking place there. If you would like to explore What’s Developing in Schertz, please go to Schertz.com, select “Business & Development”, select “Development Resources”, and select “What’s Developing in Schertz?” on the left hand side of the screen.
The goal behind this new feature was to create a location for residents to easily view what construction is happening in their neighborhoods. By using the interactive map you can view current commercial developments, and residential developments, up until public infrastructure improvement acceptance.
If you have any questions about the What’s Developing in Schertz website feature, please contact the Planning & Community Development- Planning Division at planning@schertz.com or at (210) 619-1780.
Not only is the development location and name provided but also a general description. For example, the general location, size of buildings, land use, and subdivision information are also shown. Additionally, approved site plans for commercial developments and approved plats for residential developments are provided. City staff ’s goal behind the website is to update the interactive map as soon as building permits are approved. This is to ensure that once construction,
Hal Baldwin Scholarship The Hal Baldwin Scholarship encourages young people to consider public service and is named after the Schertz mayor who gave 30 years of service to the city. As Schertz residents beginning in the 1960s, Mayor Baldwin and wife Barbara saw the city grow from 5,000 residents to more than 30,000 and become San Antonio’s largest suburban city. Baldwin, a retired Air Force Senior Master Sergeant, served Schertz as an assistant city manager, civic volunteer, city councilman and then mayor ( for nearly 17 years). In recognition of Baldwin’s long service, the Schertz City Council established his namesake scholarship to encourage high school seniors (public, private, or homeschooled) who are residents of Schertz to consider public service as a career path. The 2018 scholarship will be awarded on a competitive basis. The scholarship may be used for tuition or other fees or expenses for any postsecondary school that is accredited by a state, regional, or national accreditation agency and is a traditional 2 - or 4 - year
institution or other educational institution offering courses, degrees, or other training suitable to a public service career. Applications for the Baldwin Scholarship can be downloaded from Schertz.com or picked up at the following locations: •
• • •
Administrative Bldg. No.2 (Within the Hal Baldwin Municipal Complex, 1400 Schertz Parkway) City Hall, Bldg. No.1 Public Affairs Office, Bldg. No. 5 Schertz Public Library, 798 Schertz Parkway
Completed applications must be received in the City Manager’s Office (Bldg. No.2) by 5:00 PM Monday, April 30, 2018. Incomplete applications will not be accepted. For more information, contact Sarah Gonzalez at (210) 619-1015 or by email at sgonzalez@schertz.com
Schertz Magazine April 2018
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City
Headlines
EMS CPR/First Aid Training Schertz EMS will be holding monthly CPR/AED and First Aid classes throughout 2018. These classes are open to the public and provide a certification that is good for two years and can be used in a lot of different professional settings. Most importantly, these classes teach a pivotal skill that you never know when you may need to use on a loved one. Bystander CPR can be done immediately after someone collapses in to sudden cardiac arrest to save their life. For every 1 minute that someone is in cardiac arrest and does not receive CPR, their chances of survival reduce by 10%. Waiting to do anything until an ambulance arrives anywhere from 5 to 15 minutes after the person has collapsed can decrease their chances of survival significantly. We encourage everyone to become CPR/AED trained at a minimum. In order to take the class, you only need to be able to read and write, so even older children and teenagers are encouraged to attend. The skill itself can be incredibly easy to learn; however, this class will also give you background information as to why it is important to learn CPR and how chest compressions are effective during cardiac arrest. The class allows ample time for skills practice on manikins. The First Aid course goes over many common injuries and illnesses as well as how you can treat them at home prior to more advanced help arriving. This course offers a little bit of knowledge in a lot of different areas. We also allow time for practicing skills such as how to control bleeding during the class. CPR/AED training will run from 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM and the First Aid course will run from 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM. The cost is $30 for one course or $50 for two. The classes are held in the EMS Training Room. Below are the upcoming training dates: April 7 NO MAY CLASS – visiting schools all month to teach CPR June 2 July 14 August 4 September 15 October 13 November 3 December 8 For more information contact Kellie Burnam, Community Health Manager, at (210) 619-1430.
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Schertz Magazine April 2018
Photo by: Baelyn Grell
City
Headlines
National Adopt A Shelter Pet Day April 30 is National Adopt A Shelter Pet Day and we are encouraging you to bring a new furry friend into your family. On April 28 and April 30 Schertz Animal Shelter at 800 Community Circle will be offering $50.00 adoptions to invite those who are willing and able to bring a new pet into their homes. National Adopt a Shelter Pet allows us to bring awareness to thousands of pets that are waiting and needing fur-ever homes. If you can care for an animal consider adopting a pet from a shelter. Studies have shown that not only does adopting save a life but it improves your own health and happiness.
Bark in the Park Pups need a park too, and luckily we have one for them in Schertz! If you aren’t aware, the Schertz Dog Park is a 0.60-acre park located at 940 Community Circle Drive, behind the Schertz City Hall Complex. The park opened in 2015 with much fanfare and has seen steady use since that time.
Share your shelter pet adoption story with Schertz Animal Services on Facebook and use the hashtags #nationaladoptashelterpetday and #adoptdontshop.
There are 2 small dog areas and one large open area - each with their own pet waste station and drinking fountain with pet bowls of course! There are shaded benches for the humans, a short decomposed granite walking path in the shape of a dog bone, and some re-purposed fire hydrants that complete the doggie theme of the park. Park hours are dawn to dusk. Doggie visitors to the park should all have collars, be up to date on vaccinations, and know how to play nice with other dogs. Human visitors should always have a leash on hand and are expected to clean up after their pets. Any bites should be reported to Schertz Animal Services immediately. Beyond the dog park, Schertz Parks & Recreation has noticed an increase in demand from residents who want to involve their pups in recreational activities, and created the Paws in the Pool event last September. This doggie dip day was held at Pickrell Park Pool on a Saturday and at Wendy Swan Memorial Park Pool on a Sunday at the end of the regular swim season. We will continue the event this September, so stay tuned for more information. Additionally, we are showing the movie Santa Buddies, which features doggie stars, as our December movie in the Music & Movies in the Park Series. We will host the movie in the open field next to the Dog Park and will have an opportunity for pet pics with Santa. The department will continue to offer new and exciting opportunities for residents to get active alongside their pets In the meantime, get outside and enjoy the beautiful spring weather with your pet at the Schertz Dog Park!
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Council Visits South Schertz The first Council on the Go meeting of 2018 was held in the southern region of Schertz on Tuesday, February 20 at Ray D. Corbett Junior High School. The meeting began at 6:30 PM with a staff meet and greet and proceeded with presentations from staff on various topics to include updates on the expansion of FM1518, Fire Station #3, and the FY 2017/18 budget. The FM1518 expansion presentation detailed the project’s split into two phases: the first focusing on targeting priority areas with a projected completion of 2021 and the second phase being determined by funding. It was noted that Schertz Council approved additional funding for the project at the November 28, 2017 City Council Meeting
as well as the submittal for additional funding by TxDOT in December 2017. The Fire Station #3 presentation included visuals of the structure’s location, as well as an update on the hiring of staff to occupy the new station. As means to having a fire safety presence in the southern region of Schertz, a temporary fire station location was announced. More information on the location and opening can be found on page 24. The FY 2017-18 budget overview highlighted areas most identified by residents based on the results of the 2016 Citizen Satisfaction Survey. Areas include additional staff for police services, facility maintenance of parks and new trail connections, storm water runoff channel maintenance, and more enforcement of city codes and ordinances. The current budget approved 22 new personnel, 20 work vehicles, and funds for street maintenance around the city. The presentations were followed with a questions and answer session. Residents were encouraged to visit with City Staff and Council members after the meeting to discuss their concerns and needs. Council on the Go meetings will be held in the northern and central regions of Schertz in April and May of this year. The Council on the Go meeting initiative started in February 2016. The concept was to enhance City Council’s community outreach by hosting quarterly town-hall style meetings in nearby neighborhoods to address area-specific topics. The goal is to offer residents a closer, more accessible and convenient venue to interact with City Council and staff periodically.
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Schertz Magazine April 2018
APRIL CALENDAR Did you know...
Machine Sewing 101
You can suggest a purchase for materials at the library? If you have looked in the library catalog for a particular item, and we do not own it, you may suggest that we purchase it for the collection. While we may not be able to acquire everything that is suggested, your suggestion will be reviewed and considered for the collection. Suggestions can be for any type of material: books, ebooks, DVD, Audiobook etc. Suggestion for Purchase is available on the library website under Using the Library or by entering the following link in your address bar: schertzlibrary.org/suggest-a-purchase-2/
Local resident, Patti Burditt will be teaching a beginners course on how to operate your sewing machine and assisting students with making a simple project on the first Tuesday of each month (April 3) at 12:00 PM and the third Thursday (April 19) from 6:00 - 8:00 PM. This program is designed for adults ages 18+ and requires students to bring their sewing machine with them to class. Pre-registration required as space is limited. Call the library (210) 619-1700 for more information and registration.
Year Long Book Nerd Reading Challenge
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 (April 5) 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 library is also starting a year-long Book Nerd Reading Challenge for ages 5-adult. The goal is to complete a book from each of the categories on the list for your age group throughout the year. Those who complete the challenge will be awarded an awesome prize in January of 2019! Registration is open now and will remain open throughout the year, but all categories must be complete by January 31, 2019. Please contact the library with any questions about this program.
National Poetry Month Event
Join us for a special open mic poetry night on Thursday, April 12 from 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM in celebration of National Poetry Month. All poets are invited to share their work. Preregistration not required to attend.
The Book Ends Afternoon Book Club
The library book club meets the second Thursday of each month in Library Meeting Room 1. On Thursday, April 12, join us for a discussion of Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate beginning at 1:30 PM. Pre-registration not required.
B.Y.O.C. Bring Your Own Craft
Evening Storytime
Story time that is just right for your family, all ages welcome. Stories, songs, and activities will engage your children (and entertain the adult who is still a child at heart). Join us Tuesday evenings in April at 6:30 PM.
Tinkerlab
Tinkerlab introduces science, technology, engineering, and math concepts through play, experimentation and discovery. Drop-in for monthly self-directed challenges on the third Saturday of the month. This program is designed especially for students ages 8-12. Join us the Saturday, April 21 at 2:00 PM. Check the library online calendar for more details and monthly themes.
Contact Us
798 Schertz Parkway Schertz, TX 78154 Phone: 210-619-1700
Hours of Operation Mon-Thur 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM Fri-Sat 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Sun 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM
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STAY INFORMED!
Follow us on Facebook at cityofschertz and cityofschertzparksandrecreation
WE WANT YOUR BEST SHOT!
Use #SchertzParksandRec when posting to Instagram and share your Schertz Parks pictures with us.
PARKS AND RECREATION FUN GUIDE LAUNCH
We are excited to launch our first ever Schertz Parks & Recreation FUN Guide to highlight all of the exciting events and amazing recreational opportunities going on in Schertz. The 24 page guide includes easy-to-access information on parks and facilities such as operating hours and what amenities are available at each park. It also includes information about all of the fun activities for the spring and summer seasons. The hope is that in the future we will be able to produce two guides per year, one in spring/summer and one in fall/winter. For now, please check out what’s inside the Spring/Summer Guide for 2018. Through our partnership with the YMCA, we offer an indoor Recreation Center with fitness equipment, group exercise classes, a rock climbing wall and so much more. Right next door is the Aquatic Center, which celebrated its one year anniversary in January 2018. With two pools and numerous aquatic programming opportunities, this 19,000 sq. foot state of the art facility is something that Schertz residents should be proud of. Don’t forget to get out and explore all of our park properties highlighted on pages 16-21 of the guide. Each location has different and unique amenities; there is something for everyone! If a more natural experience is appealing to you and your family, check out the programs we offer at Crescent Bend Nature Park. Bird Walks, Star Parties, and the Nature Discovery Series for children are just some of the fun things we have planned. Finally, July is National Park & Recreation Month, and this year’s theme is “A Lifetime of Discovery” highlighting that parks and recreation are more than just playgrounds and rec centers. Our department offers senior programs, innovative health and wellness opportunities, sports parks, aquatic complexes, community celebrations, nature education, miles of trails, flood mitigation, maintenance, and much, much more. “A Lifetime of Discovery” awaits at your local parks and recreation facility!
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Schertz Magazine April 2018
NATURE DISCOVERY SERIES
More sessions coming in 2018! 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 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 held at 10:00 AM at Crescent Bend Nature Park, and the program is free. Upcoming 2018 dates and topics are: April 7: Discover What’s Buzzing and Blooming May 5: Discover What’s Swimming June 2: Discover a Bug’s World
CRESCENT BEND BIRDING WALK
Join us at Crescent Bend Nature Park for the next Birding Walk on April 22 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.
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. See their website for more information at friendscbnp.zenfolio.com.
APRIL SHOWERS BRING MAY FLOWERS… but they also make the grass grow like crazy! If you’ve noticed the grass looking a little tall at your neighborhood park and wondered when it will be mowed, here is a quick guide to help you understand the mowing schedule for the Parks Department. Parks are scheduled to be mowed every 14 days, throughout the growing season March – October, and this can vary based on wet weather conditions or special events. The city campuses such as Library, Aquatic Center, Community Playscape, City Hall, etc. are scheduled to be mowed every 7 days throughout the growing season March October. This can also vary based on wet weather conditions. Some parks are mowed through a landscaping contractor that is managed by the Parks Department, and some are mowed in-house by Parks Department staff. All city campuses and medians are mowed through a landscaping contractor that is managed by the Parks Department. The chart below details when your neighborhood park is scheduled to be mowed this month. Please call us with any questions or concerns at (210) 619-1850.
Mowing Schedule
Park or City Campus:
Scheduled the Week of:
Country Club Drive Medians Crescent Bend Nature Park Cut-Off Park Cypress Point Park Fire Station #2 Forest Ridge Park Gutierrez Xeriscape Park Hal Baldwin Municipal Complex Heritage Oaks Park Legacy Oaks Parkway Medians Lone Oak Park Mary Whitfield Burks Park North Center Oak Forest Park Palm Park Pickrell Park Rhine Valley Park Schertz Area Senior Center Schertz Aquatic Center Schertz Ballpark Schertz Community Playscape Schertz Dog Park Schertz Parkway Medians Schertz Public Library Schertz Recreation Center Schertz Skate Park Schertz Soccer Complex The Park at Woodland Oaks Thulemeyer Park Wendy Swan Memorial Park
4/2, 4/9, 4/16, 4/23, 4/30 4/9, 4/23, 5/7 4/9, 4/23, 5/7 4/2, 4/16, 4/30 4/2, 4/9, 4/16, 4/23, 4/30 4/2, 4/16, 4/30 4/2, 4/16, 4/30 4/2, 4/9, 4/16, 4/23, 4/30 4/2, 4/16, 4/30 4/2, 4/9, 4/16, 4/23, 4/30 4/2, 4/16, 4/30 4/2, 4/16, 4/30 4/2, 4/16, 4/30 4/2, 4/16, 4/30 4/2, 4/16, 4/30 4/9, 4/23, 5/7 4/2, 4/16, 4/30 4/2, 4/9, 4/16, 4/23, 4/30 4/2, 4/9, 4/16, 4/23, 4/30 Weekly 4/2, 4/9, 4/16, 4/23, 4/30 4/2, 4/9, 4/16, 4/23, 4/30 4/2, 4/9, 4/16, 4/23, 4/30 4/2, 4/9, 4/16, 4/23, 4/30 4/2, 4/9, 4/16, 4/23, 4/30 4/2, 4/9, 4/16, 4/23, 4/30 Weekly 4/2, 4/16, 4/30 Bi-weekly 4/2, 4/16, 4/30
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Planning and Community Development Receives Excellence Award The Schertz Planning and Community Development Department was recognized at the March 13 City Council Meeting for receiving the Planning Excellence Award from the American Planning Association - Texas Chapter. APA's National Planning Awards recognizes outstanding efforts in planning and planning leadership. Join the city in congratulating our Planning Department for their third consecutive year of receiving the award.
Planning & Community Development
From the Development Whiteboard Building & Standards Commission By: Emily Grobe, Planner
At the February 13th City Council meeting, Ordinance 17-S-50 was adopted which established the Building and Standards Commission for the City of Schertz. The creation of this commission was intended to provide an appropriate outlet for applicants requesting an appeal to a decision of the fire marshal or the building official, and to review and take appropriate actions on buildings found to be in violation of a city ordinance or a public nuisance. Additionally, the Building and Standards Commission will act as an advisor to the Building Official and Fire Chief, including making recommendations to the City Council regarding proposed building code and fire code amendments. The desired registered design professional Unlike other commissions/boards, the would be out of the following fields/trades: Building and Standards Commission will As part of the creation of the Building only meet when there is a case to be heard. and Standards Commission, City • Architectural experience or a builder or Meaning, there are no set dates scheduled Council adopted specific guidelines superintendent of building construction on the Master Calendar. If you are a design and qualifications that a resident professional with one of the specific fields • Mechanical and plumbing engineering must have to be appointed to serve listed and want to be involved in your experience or a mechanical contractor as a Commissioner. Specifically, the local government but cannot commit to or plumbing contractor Building and Standards Commission a bi-weekly or monthly meeting, than the is comprised of five (5) members to Building and Standards Commission may • Structural engineering experience be appointed by City Council for a be for you. two (2) year term. City Council also • Electrical engineering experience or an has the option to appoint two (2) If you would like to submit your electrical contractor alternate members to serve on the application for consideration to be Commission. Due to the technical • Fire protection engineering experience appointed to the Building and Standards nature of the cases that will be or a fire protection contractor Commission, please contact the City heard by the Building and Secretary, Brenda Dennis at Standards Commission, bdennis@schertz.com or at the Commission members (210) 619-1030. should be registered design Emily Grobe, professionals out of particular Planner If you have any questions about fields/trades and must be Planners assist the general the Building and Standards residents of Schertz. public with planning, zoning Commission, please contact and development concerns Planning & Community and inquiries. Planners are also Development- Planning responsible for performing a Division at planning@schertz. variety of tasks including plat & com or at (210) 619-1780. plan review, ordinance writing, interpreting state laws and codes, and project research.
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Local Resident Named Pet Sitter of the Year By: Lucille Sims Thomas
W
The top finalists were reviewed by a judging panel that evaluated the pet sitters on a variety of criteria including overall professionalism, contributions to the industry, commitment to the profession and quality of references provided.
Now, almost 20 years later, her pet-sitting business has been so successful that her husband, Phillip, a microbiologist for many years, now works with her at Cathy’s Critter Care. She also employs 10 people who work for her as pet sitters and still visits homes herself.
“Cathy’s nearly two decades of pet-sitting experience, rave reviews from pet-sitting clients and other industry professionals, and her dedication to growing her business while also helping others in the industry were major contributors to her ultimate selection as 2018 Pet Sitter of the Year,” said Beth Stultz, PSI Vice President of Marketing and Operations.
hen Cathy Vaughan’s husband decided to go online and order a book on pet sitting for her, she dismissed his idea as craziness, believing nobody would allow a complete stranger into their home to care for their pets. Boy was she wrong.
On top of that success, Vaughan was recently selected as Pet Sitters International’s Pet Sitter of the Year for 2018. Pet Sitters International (PSI) is the world’s largest educational association for professional pet sitters and presents an annual award to a pet sitter who embodies the passion and professionalism of the pet-sitter industry, according to a press release.
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Vaughan’s a native Texan and Air Force brat who earned a degree in biology from what’s now Texas State University. She worked as a sea lion trainer at Sea World for three years before deciding she wanted to focus on her growing family, which now includes four children who
range in age from 4 to 20 years old. She was looking for a way to bring in extra income after leaving her Sea World job when she decided to give pet sitting a try while also working part time in various veterinarian’s offices. Working in the vet’s offices helped her find clients since pet owners often use their veterinarian’s staff to help them find kennels or pet sitters. “I started with one client, which turned into two, which turned into four and it just kind of grew over the years,” Vaughan said. For those who don’t want someone coming into their home to care for their pet while they are away, Vaughan also operates Blue Bonnet Bunk’n Biscuit, a kennel located in Selma, right on the border with Schertz. She uses the facility as her office but Vaughan said most professional pet sitters operate out of their house. “We opened that [kennel] because we wanted to service people who either couldn’t or wouldn’t use in-home pet sitting. Some people are uncomfortable with people coming into their home,” she said. Cathy’s Critter Care offers a wide range of services and can customize its services to suit the customer’s needs. Her pet sitters will go to the clients’ homes and visit the pets for about 30 to 45 minutes to give all the care that’s needed.
“All of those kinds of things to really make the house look lived in -- so it adds a level of security as well. So, if people are out of town, they don’t have to worry about newspapers piling up in the drive way or door flyers being left on doors,” she said. Some clients want numerous visits per day for their pet and Vaughan and her staff can customize the pet’s care to accommodate that. They also have clients with older pets or younger pets that need more time, so they offer overnight sleepovers where the pet sitter will spend the night in the house with the pet. “Everything can be totally customized to whatever the clients’ pets are used to,” Vaughan said.” Vaughan credits her success in the pet-sitting business to her commitment to making her individual clients’ needs her top priority and her willingness to change and adapt her business processes to better serve her clients, while keeping up with the changing industry. She’s also written a book on starting a pet-sitting business and helped create the annual Texas Pet Sitters Conference, now in its third year.
As the Pet Sitter of the Year, Vaughan will receive a crown made out of dog biscuits and a $500 gift. Her reign as the face of the professional pet-sitting industry will last the entire year but she will be officially crowned at PSI’s 2018 Pet Sitter World Education Conference & Expo in Myrtle Beach, S.C., in September. “I am excited, honored and proud to help the industry grow even stronger by highlighting the personal and professional care PSI’s member businesses provide every day,” she said. Cathy’s Critter Care covers most of the San Antonio area, although the majority of their clients live in the Schertz, Cibolo, Selma, and Universal City area.
“PSI has 6,000 member businesses around the globe, and selecting a recipient for this honor is no easy task,” PSI President Patti J. Moran said. “Cathy’s dedication to her business and clients, her focus on continuing education and her commitment to elevating the professionalism of our industry make her a shining example of what a professional pet sitter should be,” Moran said. For more information on professional pet sitting, visit petsit.com. For more information on Cathy’s Critter Care, visit mybunknbiscuit.com. Photos by: Ares and Emzy Photography
“If they have dogs and cats we will feed, give fresh water, give medication that’s needed, and do litter box scooping for the cats,” Vaughan said. They will also get the mail, take garbage cans to the curb, turn porch lights on at night and off in the morning and water plants if necessary.
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Fire Station #3 Gains Momentum By: Melissa Geedman
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uilding a fire station in the rapidly-growing, south region of Schertz has been in discussion for quite some time now, and the City of Schertz continues to move forward with the project that will bring reduced response times to the area. In November of 2015, voters passed a bond to build a new fire station in south Schertz which would reduce current response times up to 60%. After much consideration, it was determined that the best location to build the station was near the intersection of Lower Seguin Road and FM 1518. The
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selected parcel of land is just north east of the intersection of Lower Seguin Road and Hollering Vine and was purchased in December of 2017. The new station is anticipated to have the capacity to hold multiple pieces of apparatus. The nearly 14,000 square foot facility will also include a utility room, shop, seven sleeping rooms, a kitchen/dining area, a day room, a workout room, lieutenant office, conference room, and a radio/ watch office. The station will also feature a large community room which is intended to be
used for community gatherings and meetings. The design is still being adjusted, as size and scope alterations are being made to accommodate the budget of the project. The station is being designed and refined by BRW (Brown Reynolds Watford) Architects, and design plans are expected to be complete by May 2018. The City has been planning for the costs associated with opening and operating the new fire station for some time. As part of the City’s annual budget process, the City considers
future expenses and revenues for the next five years. This has allowed the City to start hiring and purchasing equipment in anticipation of the new station’s opening. To date, the City has hired nine of the twelve new personnel needed for the station and just took delivery of a new fire engine. The engine was finalized by Pierce Manufacturing, an Appleton, Wisconsin-based manufacturer of custom fire and rescue apparatus, and was delivered to Schertz on Wednesday, March 14.
The final three firefighter positions needed to complete the staffing of Fire Station #3 are currently being recruited, and it is anticipated that the final staff will be in place and ready to perform by May 2018. With the personnel and engine in place, the Fire Chief believes the best plan for utilizing these newly-added resources is to move forward with a temporary station to provide a fire rescue presence in south Schertz and reduce response times in that area-and the City as a whole. “We recognize the need to have a fire department presence in the south sooner than later, and the temporary station is a transitionary solution while we await the completion of Fire Station 3,” commented Fire Chief, Kade Long. Chief Long has located a vacant residence and large metal building on property owned by Schertz’ waste water partner, Cibolo Creek Municipal Authority (CCMA). CCMA has been supportive from the moment they were approached about the idea of using their property as the temporary station site, and their support is invaluable and deeply appreciated. Despite delays in the design phase of Station 3, the City has been proactively moving forward with the purchase of a new engine and the hiring of new personnel. This temp station enables the Fire Department to put these resources in place as we work to meet the needs of citizens in southern Schertz. The property is located on Trainer Hale Road, approximately 0.5 miles north of IH-10. CCMA’s property is the future location of the Southern Schertz Waste Water Treatment Plant that will be under construction in late 2019. In the meantime, CCMA was enthusiastic to cooperate with
the City in the temporary fire station, and on March 8, 2018 the CCMA Board voted in favor of utilizing these structures as a temporary fire station. “We are pleased that we could partner with the Schertz Fire Department on a temporary fire station for the southern Schertz area. The location of the South Plant property worked out well, allowing fire and EMS coverage for the area as they construct their new station. The fact that we were using the site for equipment storage, and not using the house at all, made it an easy decision for CCMA’s Board,” quotes CCMA General Manager, Clint Ellis. A property usage agreement was implemented requiring the City to pay only for the wear and tear of the two buildings and any additional improvements the facility needed. Estimated movein costs for the temporary facility is approximately $20,000, which will include the installation of an all-weather driveway for the fire apparatus. The temporary fire
station should be ready to open by the early part of May. “The move-in costs for the temporary station are minimal when you consider that this will allow us to reduce response times by up to 60% to areas in southern Schertz. The property has a four- bedroom house that is in good condition and will require a minimal amount of work to be move in ready for our firefighters. The property also includes a metal barn where we will park an engine and brush truck. We are fortunate to have found this property, and we are working diligently to accomplish the goal of being able to put this temporary station into service by early May,” commented Long. Schertz Fire Rescue is excited for the momentum of opening Fire Station #3 and continues to educate and involve the community throughout the process. The community is encouraged to partake in a Housing Ceremony to be held on April 19 from 5:30-6:30 at Schertz Fire Station #1 where a spray
down from the fire hose and wipe down will mark the official welcoming of the new Engine 3. The celebration of the arrival of a new piece of apparatus has been a source of pride for fire departments for more than 100 years. Once the truck receives its symbolic wash, fire department members-with the mighty help of the community- will move to the front of the truck to [push] roll the apparatus back into the bay. In addition, a promotional ceremony will take place prior to the washing of the engine to acknowledge nine new promotions within the department. Schertz Fire Department welcomes the community to engage in this exciting ceremony as they celebrate their members who are stepping into new leadership positions within the department. For more updates on the Fire Station #3 project and other Schertz Fire information, go to Schertz.com.
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Anneka Dahle Wins Dog Championship By: Kira Villarreal
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canine members of the team. The junior division is for individuals under 18, but Dahle also competes at the adult level, and in fact has gained more experience in her 17 years than many adult competitors.
In an Agility competition, dogs and handlers must negotiate an obstacle course while racing against the clock. The event requires conditioning, focus, and teamwork for both the human and
For Dahle, competition is clearly in her blood. Her mother, Karen Dahle, has been training and competing with dogs since before Anneka was born, and her sister Aubrie has won her share of titles as well. In fact, Dahle has been competing almost as long as she has been walking. The Samuel Clemens High School senior first stepped onto the course as a toddler watching one of her sister’s competitions. She showed an early interest and a natural talent for the sport, and at two weeks shy of her third birthday, she became the youngest person in the country ever to enter a competition – a record that still stands today. In the 15 years that followed, she has built quite an impressive resume. She estimates
chertz resident and dog handler, Anneka Dahle, has recently added another title to her rapidly growing list of accomplishments. Dahle and her two dogs beat out more than 70 other teams to take home both first and second place in the Agility category of the prestigious AKC Junior Invitational, held this past December in Orlando, Florida. Anneka and her seven-year-old Border Collie, Bama, won the title and she also picked up second place with her 12-year-old Australian Shepherd, Vapor. It was the latest in a long line of accomplishments for the 17-year-old who is currently the top-ranked junior in the country. Anneka won the inaugural event in 2011 with a Shetland Sheepdog, Taufie, and in 2015 she took first place in the Obedience category.
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that she has participated in thousands of competitions during her relatively short career. In addition to agility, she also completes in other categories such as obedience, confirmation and Junior Showmanship, although the agility category is her favorite and the one in which she most often competes. Today, Dahle participates in at least two competitions per month, both locally and throughout the country. She and her dogs train for about an hour per day on average, although that can increase to as much as two hours per day or more right before a competition. To facilitate her practice, the family has transformed their backyard into a practice course, which can be set with up to 25 obstacles. She’ll likely be using this course even more than usual in the next few months as she prepares for her next big challenge – competing in Roosendaal, Netherlands this summer representing the United States as a member of the Junior European Open Agility Team. This event includes the top junior competitors from Europe and the United States, and Dahle has participated twice in the past. In 2012, she competed with three
dogs and placed 14th, 15th and 58th in her respective classes. In 2016, she placed 39th out of 145 large dog teams, and she hopes to do even better this year. When she’s not competing, Dahle spends her time teaching and mentoring other students as the Community Dog Project Leader of a Guadalupe County 4-H group. At Samuel Clemens, she is affectionately known as the “dog whisperer” and she enjoys sharing her expertise with others, whether it be training tips or recommendations for the best brand of dog shampoo. She says one of the most rewarding aspects of the sport for her is that it helps develop confidence and focus, which she can see in her
students and that she has also observed in herself. “Competing in Agility really draws the personality out of you,” she says. “I used to be quiet and shy, but I had to learn to control myself and my temper and trust in my abilities. It really helped me to gain confidence, and I can see this confidence in my students as well.” After graduation, Dahle plans to attend Texas A&M San Antonio, where she will study education. However, she is also considering another possible career path that will allow her to continue working with dogs. “I’m interested in training military working dogs, and the Air Force has some great opportunities for
that, so that might be another possibility for me,” she says. One thing that she knows for sure is that she will continue to train and compete with her dogs while she is in college. She plans to live at home and commute to school next year so she can keep up her competition schedule. She also has hopes of someday being on the other side of the judges table. Currently, she has already met all current qualifications to be a judge except one. She is not yet 21 – the required minimum age for judges, so she’ll have to wait a few more years to accomplish that goal. Despite her remarkable success and obvious talent for the sport, Anneka insists it’s something that anyone can learn to do. “Agility isn’t something that only select people can do,” she said. “Anyone who is willing to be patient and work hard can be successful.” When asked what she believes is the key to success in their sport, Karen Dahle points to a sentence that is embroidered on the shirt she is wearing. It says, “Believe in you and your dog,” and Karen notes that this sentence has become the unofficial motto of the Dahle family. “You have to be patient with your dog and be willing to create that strong bond,” she said. “And then you have to really truly believe.”
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AROUND THE
COMMUNITY Wilenchik Walk Celebrates 10th Anniversary Saturday, March 3 marked the 10th annual Wilenchik’s Walk for Life – the 5k along Schertz Parkway held in memory of councilman Tony Wilenchik to bring awareness to cancer research while honoring those lost to cancer and those still fighting. This year an estimated 200 participants gathered at Clemens High School to walk or run the course which looped around on Jonas Drive and finished back where it started. Mayor Michael Carpenter stated in the opening words that this event is “an opportunity to celebrate life,” and that sentiment held strong throughout the event. Dr. Elizabeth Bowhay-Carnes of the Mays Cancer Center ( former UT Health San Antonio) spoke briefly on the changes of the oncology headquarters following a 25 million dollar donation from the Mays Family and thus the subsequent name change of the facility to honor that endowment. The center also recently linked with MD Anderson, and between the new affiliation and the generous donation, will be able to expand their resources greatly. Allan Kokinda, an osteosarcoma survivor and patient of the center, also joined the celebration and spoke on how the Cancer Center made it possible for him to be here today. On Behalf of the Mays Cancer Center, an award for support of the clinical trials program, was presented to Mayor Carpenter and Valerie Wilenchik celebrating the decade of support and proceeds of this event being donated to the Center. Participants of all ages took part in this annual community event, and many added their handwritten signs of love along the route in remembrance and support to friends and family fighting the disease. Boy Scout Troop 51 were mid-course handing out water and encouraging words, and H-E-B sponsors met everyone at the finish line with bananas, granola bars and water. Although it is a fun run, recognition was awarded to the first, second, and third place male and female runners. The 2018 first-finishers were Mens: 1st Place-Cesar Diaz; 2nd Place-Manny Casas; 3rd Place-Eric Maus. Ladies: 1st Place-Ashley Wayman; 2nd Place-Priscilla Velasquez; 3rd Place-Selena Trevino. The Wilenchik Walk for Life remains an annual event of inspiration and remembrance for Schertz and surrounding area residents. The past decade of support from walkers and runners has raised over $169,000 towards cancer research and continues to work towards a cure with the great amount of support from the community.
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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) Vanessa J-Douglas went to Clemson, South Carolina with her Schertz Magazine.
(Above) Lester Brown went to Niagara Falls, Canada with his Schertz Magazine.
(Below) Harry and Vanessa Reese went to the Grand Canyon with their Schertz Magazine.
(Above) Rita Estes took her Schertz Magazine to National Harbor, Maryland.
(Above) Carmen Cuprill-Young took Schertz Magazine with her to Havana, Cuba.
AROUND THE
COMMUNITY
Selma/Schertz 5K Event Shows Community’s Spirit The 8th Annual Selma/Schertz Salute to Service Members 5K run/walk was a moving event in more ways than one. Scores of disabled veterans, cheered on by onlookers, filled a portion of Lookout Road to help raise money for Operation Comfort and its veteran programs. Held at the Bluebonnet Palace on Saturday, February 24, the neighboring cities attracted more than 400 participants, plus scores of family members and supporters. This participant turnout is believed to be a record. This is one of the two annual fundraisers, and it is very important to helping provide local programs to local veterans in a local place. Jim Madison is one of the veterans helped by Operation Comfort. Wearing his red, white, and blue racing outfit, and sitting in his race wheel chair, he was ready for his third time in this race. “Operation Comfort saved my life by helping me turn it around through programs and support. You can feel the love at this event, it’s that strong,” Madison said. Schertz Mayor Michael Carpenter and Selma Mayor Tom Daly said the event is a win for everyone. “This is another example of how our two cities work together to benefit the veteran community and the larger community,” commented Carpenter. Daly said that with the strong military tradition and influence in the area it is important and just natural to help disabled veterans and other veterans. “Our cities are very strong on helping our wounded warriors,” the Selma mayor said. Among the runners was the Garcia family, dad and mom Carlos and Candace, both veterans who served in Iraq, and sons Nate, 10, and Gabe 6. “A friend of ours told us about this event and we decided to try it out. Now it will probably become a family tradition,” Carlos Garcia said. Among new things this year for the 5K event was a live band, participant costume contest (won by U.S. Army member Diane Oswald as Wonder Woman), and a silent auction. Overall Winners of the race were Jessica Fernandez and Benjamin Guerrero. For full race results go to rrptiming. com. For more information on Operation Comfort go to opertioncomfort.org or call (210) 826-0500.
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RACAP Food Drive
Hanson Aggregates – Servtex Quarry partners with area schools, city halls for fifth annual Food Drive for RACAP During summer, many children go hungry because they don’t have access to regular, nutritious meals served at school. To help ensure that all kids get to eat this summer, Hanson Aggregates – Servtex Quarry is organizing its fifth annual food drive. The fifth annual Food Drive for RACAP (Randolph Area Christian Assistance Program) takes place May 21-25. RACAP is a Schertz-based food pantry serving portions of Guadalupe, Comal and Bexar counties. Summer is the busiest season at Randolph Area Christian Assistance Program (RACAP), when the program sees increased demand from families with school-aged children. Hanson Aggregates –Servtex Quarry is coordinating the food drive with help from other community partners. During the week of the food drive, food will be collected at city halls in Garden Ridge, Cibolo, Schertz, Selma and Universal City, along with participating schools in these communities.
Last year, Servtex Quarry worked with area communities and schools to collect more than 9,200 pounds of food to help fill RACAP shelves. Items in high demand include 1-2 lb. bags of rice and dried beans, canned soups, canned pasta and meat, boxed meat helpers, ramen noodles and other shelf-stable items. RACAP relies solely on churches, businesses and individuals to help stock its pantry and does not receive any government funding. Services provided to clients include food, rent assistance, and help with prescription medications and utilities. Servtex Quarry, located in Garden Ridge, produces several million tons of crushed stone a year, which is used mainly for road, residential and commercial construction in San Antonio, South and East Texas. For more information or to learn how to help, please contact Hanson Aggregates – Servtex Quarry at (210) 658-7461.
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YMCA Healthy Kids Day Healthy Kids Day, a free community event presented by the Schertz Family YMCA, will be held Saturday, April 21 from 8:00 AM - noon at the Pickerell Park Main Pavillion. The event will include games, healthy snacks, and healthy vendors. The YMCA supports families in their effort to teach healthy habits and keep kids active and learning, preparing them for a brighter future. Healthy Kids Day is a kick-off-event for a sustained initiative that helps kids stay healthy and achieving all summer long. For more than 20 years, Healthy Kids Day has celebrated kids’ health and continues to teach healthy habits for kids and families, encourages active play and inspires a lifetime love of physical activity. For more information contact the Schertz Family YMCA at (210) 619-1900.
Miss Friendly City I am Ashley Poerner, and I am a proud member of the 2017-2018 Schertz Sweetheart Court. This is my second year on the court. This year I have been honored to represent Schertz as Miss Friendly City. My time on the Sweetheart Court has been amazing and has allowed me to meet many members of the community and to represent the City of Schertz at parades and events around the surrounding area. As a senior at Samuel Clemens, I am a member of FFA, HOSA, and the National Honor Society. I participate in Leadership Development Event teams and Career Development Event teams through the FFA program where I have developed public speaking, interviewing and leadership skills. Through my 10 years in the Ag program I developed a real passion for animals. The Ag program has taught me responsibility and time management whether it’s feeding, cleaning, caring for, or exercising the animals. I have raised animal projects since I was in 3rd grade. I have raised steers, rabbits and pigs and have placed some of my projects at County shows and major shows, to include San Antonio and Houston. Outside of school, I enjoy volunteering my time in the community by attending events such as Feed my Starving Children, Feast of Sharing as well as spending time with seniors living in local assisted living/nursing facilities. Throughout the last several years I also enjoyed barrel racing and volunteering my time to work with the youth in the community. I have volunteered at Timber Hall Farms where I assisted the trainers in teaching horse management, care, and riding. I have competed in barrel racing for five years, through which I have won tack, buckles, and cash prizes. I have also danced recreationally and competitively for thirteen years, and I have worked and volunteered at Amy’s All-Star Dance studio over the years. I am confident that with the many opportunities I have received through volunteering, school and the Sweetheart Court, I will have the solid foundation and skills needed to guide me into the future. I plan to pursue a career in nursing with a specialization in pediatrics.
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Miss Sunshine Hello! My name is Trinity Monteverdi, and I have been blessed with the position of Miss Sunshine. It’s been such an honor to serve my community and be an ambassador for the City of Schertz. I am a senior at Samuel Clemens High School. I am a part of several different clubs and organizations such as choir, I Am Second, and National Honors Society. My greatest passions are music and children so I plan on going to Texas State University and majoring in music education. Since I was a little girl, music has played a big role in my life. I was so blessed from elementary up to high school with some amazing choir teachers who stirred my passion for music. This year I have been able to work under two of my past teachers through the Ready Set Teach program at Samuel Clemens. I have been able to experience a music classroom firsthand through these mentors. I am so excited to be able to combine my passions into a career and help encourage and flourish students’ love for music much like mine. Serving on the Schertz Sweetheart Court has been an amazing experience of my senior year. I am truly honored to be apart of such a welcoming and loving community. At every event and parade I look forward to the reactions of young girls whose faces would light up seeing the Sweetheart Court. I am here simply to bring joy to those in our community and I can wholeheartedly say our community has brought me great joy.
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AROUND THE
COMMUNITY
Project Graduation On Thursday, June 7 and Friday, June 8, Samuel Clemens and Steele High Schools will be hosting their 2018 Graduation Ceremonies. Following the ceremonies, students will have the opportunity to attend a Project Graduation celebration, a safe, alcohol and drugfree, all-night senior class party! Statistics show (and history has proven) that graduation night is one of the deadliest for teenagers drinking and driving. High schools across the USA celebrate Project Graduation with the same common goal: keep our students safe on graduation night. The Steele High School Project Graduation will be held at Shady Oaks Ranch, directly following the graduation ceremony. Seniors will board buses and be transported to Shady Oaks Ranch where they hang out, play games, eat a late-night dinner and breakfast, participate in a variety of activities, and are eligible to win drawings for many prizes throughout the night. The Samuel Clemens High School Project Graduation will be held on June 8, after the graduation ceremony, at Texas Ski Ranch in New Braunfels. Graduates will have full access to the lake for wakeboarding, Springloaded Trampoline Park, sledding hill, paintball, inflatables, and obstacle courses. There is also a small beach area where students can hang out. Snacks, drinks, and music will be provided. Door prizes will be raffled off throughout the evening. Project Graduation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization run 100% by volunteer parents and funded 100% by fundraising, donations and contributions. We raise money throughout the year so every graduating senior can attend the party for free. Both local high schools have Project Graduation groups and have been working all year to raise the necessary funds to make this dream a reality. If you or your business are interested in making a donation, monetary funding and prize donations are still desperately needed! Follow Samual Clemens Project Graduation on: Twitter: @scprojectgrad18 Facebook: facebook.com/scprojectgrad18 Email: samuelclemensprojectgrad@gmail.com Follow Steele Project Graduation on: Twitter: @SHS2018ProGrad Facebook: facebook.com/SHS2018projectgrad Email: SteeleHSProjectGrad@gmail.com Website: SteeleProjectGrad2018.com REMIND Updates: Text @shs2018pg to 81010
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LOOKING BACK April QUOTE OF NOTE
“In the end, it’s not the years in your life that counts. It’s the life in your years.” Abraham Lincoln
LOCAL HISTORY
On April 1, 1974 began what became known as the Schertz Area Facility For Emergency Service (SAFES) The SAFES organization was an allvolunteer, non-profit ambulance service first headed by Tom Funk (Chairman). The organization was created following the termination of emergency ambulance service to the Schertz area by Randolph Air Base. SAFES served the community faithfully until October 2000 at which time the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) organization was formed as a paid, all-professional emergency service organization.
learnodo-newtonic.com
TEXAS HISTORY
On April 21, 1836, Texas Forces won the Battle of San Jacinto, the concluding military event of the Texas Revolution. Facing General Santa Anna’s Mexican army of over 1,200 men encamped in what is now southwestern Harris County, General Sam Houston ordered his forces to battle at the siesta time for the Mexican troops. General Santa Anna had no lookouts posted which allowed the Texas troops to spring forward under the cries of “Remember the Alamo” and “Remember Goliad”. According to General Houston’s official report, the casualties were 630 Mexicans killed and 720 taken prisoner. Only nine of Houston’s soldiers were killed or mortally wounded. Presented by the Schertz Historical Preservation Committee in the interest of historical perspective and community awareness of local historical legacies.
IMPORTANT SCHERTZ
PHONE NUMBERS Schertz City Council Mayor: Michael Carpenter
Council Members:
Mark Davis Ralph Gutierrez Scott Larson Cedric Edwards, Sr. David Scagliola Angelina Kiser Bert Crawford
(210) 619-1045
(210) 376-9141 (210) 376-9231 (210) 376-9835 (210) 566-4540 (830) 606-1130 (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
SCHERTZ.COM
PUBLIC AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT 1400 SCHERTZ PARKWAY SCHERTZ, TEXAS 78154