October 2012 by City of Schertz

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SCHERTZ magazine

ON THE COVER A Schertz EMS crew is seen from the patient’s perspective as they prepare to treat the person in the back of an ambulance.

contentz FEATUREZ Metro Ambulance Grows With Schertz Schertz EMS: Proud Past, Fast-Moving Future So You Think You Can Write

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DEPARTMENTZ TALK OF THE TOWNZ 10 KITCHEN KUDOZ- Local Grill Master Wins Big 19 Updatez

COLUMNZ 22 SPORTZ- “Going to State? Perennial Question for Steele 32 SPORTZ- The Johnston Era Begins at Clemens 36 SPORTZ- JPII Looking Forward to a Good Season 38

26 19

ENTERTAINMENTZ: The Wheelz on the Bus

CITY NEWZ 44 November Election Information 48 Calendarz & Contactz 50 & 51 Civic Newz Updatez

22 40 OCTOBER 2012 SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM

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City Council

EDITOR’Z LETTER Chuck McCollough, Editor

Barbara Baldwin First Lady Emerita PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY

Brad E. Bailey Public Affairs Director & Publisher Alexis Souza Art Director & Design Linda Ervin Publisher Chuck McCollough Editor-In-Chief Lucille Sims Copy Editor Chris Matzenbacher Sales Director Brittany Losey Senior Writer Contributing Staffers Erin Matlock Client Affairs Specialist Mary Spence Events Coordinator Contributing Writers B.E. Bailey, Chuck McCollough, Mary Spence, Lucille Sims Thomas, Andrea Allinger, Kari Bridges, Kiko Martinez, Ashley Festa, Rudy Arispe, Taylor Tompkins, Mary Holman-Anderson, Rick Smith, Ed McCabe

Photographers B.E. Bailey, Chuck McCollough, Mary Spence, Mike Harris, Marc Bane, Bryan Nguyen, Joe Herczeg, Diana Webb, Andrea Allinger, Kari Bridges, Zachary Carter, Ross Dye, Bryan Tobias, Raphael Gomez Schertz Magazine is published monthly by the Public Affairs Department of the City of Schertz. Our mailing address is 1400 Schertz Parkway, Schertz, Texas 78154. The official publication of the City of Schertz promotes city, community, and business activities associated with the City. © 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

In the October 2012 issue of Schertz Magazine we look at the history of ambulance service in Schertz. While working on that subject I reflected on how fortunate I have been to never need to ride in an ambulance as a patient. My only real life experience was with an EMS crew from San Antonio that responded to my mother-in-law who passed away as they tried to save her. Their professionalism and compassion shined that day.

Also in October: Ever want to write the Great American Novel but didn’t know how? Our reporting on self-publishing authors might give you new hope and confidence. And there is a peek into the future of book publishing.

And yes that was a local fella on And those same qualities are pres- TV winning the Grill Master event ent in Schertz-based ambulance on the Food Channel. Ernest Sercrews - both public and private. vantes has been a winning cook at Schertz Jubilee several times and Read about the innovative and is always a crowd favorite. He lives widely-respected Schertz EMS de- in New Braunfels and works in Separtment and the amazing leader- guin, but we think he really likes ship and quality of care it brings to cooking in Schertz. regional public EMS service. From large ambulances to smaller ones, We also have stories on local high this EMS department is a trailblaz- school football teams and a bus er and trendsetter. driver with a special touch for getting good behavior out of her stuAnd Schertz stands out in the pri- dent passengers. vate ambulance service with Metro Ambulance. Started by Susan And we didn’t forget the NovemBaldwin-Beck, the company has ber election. Look inside for usegrown to become the largest pri- ful information on that important vate ambulance service in the San event. Antonio area. All that and more in your October And read how the two ambulance issue of Schertz Magazine. services have a common origin -- a volunteer ambulance service formed by residents 40 years ago.

Executive Management John Kessel, City Manager

Executive Directors John Bierschwale David J. Harris Brian James

OCTOBER 2012 SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM

Talk Townz OF THE

OCTOBER 2012

SPD Waiting Tables for Good Cause Schertz Police Department Acting Police Chief Mike Harris waits on two customers at Chili’s Restaurant in Schertz on Sept. 12. Chief Harris and several other SPD members were guest waiters as the Chili’s chain nationwide put on their create-a-pepper campaign benefiting St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. Chief Harris, Lt. Michael Carey and other SPD members had no trouble switching from writing tickets mode to writing down food orders for the charity event.

Schertz Magazine Goes “North to Alaska” Schertz City Council member David Scagliola and wife, Maria, took Schertz Magazine along on a recent trip to the 49th State. When you travel take Schertz Magazine along, have someone photograph you and the magazine and send to events@schertz.com. We might just use that photo in the magazine. 10

SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM OCTOBER 2012

National Family History Month October is National Family History Month and the Schertz Cibolo Valley Area Genealogists will present a Family History Workshop at the Schertz Public Library on Saturday October 20, 2012 from 1:00 to 4:00p.m. There will be displays of various methods of compiling a family tree. The use of data bases and paper forms will also be shown, as well as how to use the microfilm and microfiche readers. There will also be how-tos on applying for the DAR and other groups along with crafts for children. Admission is free and there will be door prizes.

Ground Broken For New Playscape The City of Schertz held a groundbreaking ceremony for the new Playscape on Tuesday, September 11 at 629 Westchester Drive. That location is the field between two familiar buildings – the Schertz Public Library and the Schertz Family YMCA. Taking part in the ceremony were City Council members, Parks & Recreation Board members, city staff, Playscape fans and patrons and members of the Schertz Sweetheart Court. The new generation Playscape was approved by voters in the 2010 bond issue. When finished, the new Playscape will meet current

safety standards, have double the number of play items, better serve a growing and diverse population and it will evoke memories of the original Playscape that served the area for a decade. The original Playscape was built by hundreds of community volunteers over a five-day period in March 2002. It quickly became a destination place for young families to enjoy. Deterioration of wood parts and safety concerns forced the Playscape’s closure a number of months ago.

New Childcare Facility On The Way Childrens Lighthouse Learning Center, a new child education center for children ages 6 weeks to 12 years, held their Ground Breaking Ceremony on Friday, September 14th. They are located at 2080 Schertz Parkway in Schertz, just north of the City of Schertz Municipal Complex. They are slated to open early 2013.

OCTOBER 2012 SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM

Talk Townz OF THE

Be a part of the City of

Schertz Trunk or Treat

from 6:00 - 8:00 PM on October 31 at Pickrell Park, 701 Oak Street Schertz Fire, Police and EMS personnel, as well as area churches and businesses, will host this annual safe Halloween experience. Candy and other treats will be shared for all participants. For more information, contact John Perry at (210) 619-1300.

Artists, Quilters Show Stuff At Senior Center By Donna Thompson

On August 17, the Schertz Area Senior Center was crowded with many people visiting the Arts and Crafts show hosted by the members of our Art Class.

Friends and family alike took advantage of this opportunity to see the wonderful creations which were on display. Pat Foster is the instructor/facilitator of this class which meets Thursdays at the Schertz Area Senior Center. Many of the artists in this class have years of experience while others are taking up art for the first time while in their 80’s. The collection of artwork included oil painting, watercolors, sketches, and more. If you missed the display at the Senior Center, a collection of the artwork will be displayed at Java Nook starting January 7, 2013. Our Quilting Class, which meets on Monday at 12:30 PM, displayed many decorative pillows, napkins, tablecloths,

and wall-hangings which they have made over the last few months. The new class is doing machine quilting and making totes, placemats, tablecloths, and napkins. If you are interested in either of these classes, or in any of the many other opportunities the Schertz Area Senior Center provides for art, exercise, board games, wellness classes, Bible studies, outings and more, contact Donna Thompson at (210) 619-1974, or stop by the Center to pick up a monthly calendar of events and activities. We are located at 608 Schertz Parkway, next to the Schertz Public Library.

SF&R Filling the Boot For MDA Schertz Firefighter Dane Anderson gets a donation from Melissa Boney during a “Fill the Boot” collection at a traffic light at FM 3009 and IH-35. Boney is the wife of Schertz Fire Apparatus Operator Ben Boney and just happened to be driving by. Money raised is given to the Muscular Dystrophy Association. OCTOBER 2012 SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM

Talk Townz OF THE

ENERGY USE IN THE HOME

Simonson Award Deadline Oct. 19

SAWS Building Schertz Pump Station

The Steve Simonson Community Service Award is presented annually to the Schertz citizen who during the eligibility year exhibited selfless commitment to his or her community via volunteer efforts that made a difference in others’ lives.

Behind the Schertz Municipal Complex the San Antonio Water System is busy building the nearly $9 million Schertz Parkway Pump Station. The facility is part of a multi-million dollar pipeline project to take SAWS water pulled from the Carrizo-Wilcox Aquifer and send it to a Schertz-Seguin Local Government Corp. (SSLGC) water treatment plant.

The award recognizes people who voluntarily offer their time and talent to improve the community in such areas as (but not limited to) health care, social services, youth or senior activities, the arts, education, justice, housing, nutrition, community growth and development, and community morale. Activities in support of political candidates or ballot initiatives will not be considered when evaluating nominees.

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The Volunteer of the Year and two Distinguished Volunteers will be recognized at a luncheon November 15, 2012 at the Schertz Civic Center.

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Must book an appointment by Oct. 31, 2012! 800.223.4832

Comfort Check (Reg. $150)

Do you know of a deserving honoree?

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The nomination form can be found at schertz.com under the Events catetory.. You may also pick up a packet at the Schertz Civic Center/Public Affairs Office Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 12:00 Noon and 1:00 – 5:00 PM. Nomination packages will be accepted through October 19, 2012.

SAWS Laying Pipeline in Schertz San Antonio Water System contractors dig a deep hole near the bridge at Schertz Parkway and Live Oak Road as part of a nearly $19 million water delivery pipeline project. The pipeline will carry water from the Carrizo-Wilcox Aquifer to a Schertz-Seguin Local Government Corp. water treatment plant, according to a SAWS official. 14

SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM OCTOBER 2012

OCTOBER 2012 SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM

Talk Townz OF THE

WHAT’S HAPPENIN’ IN YOUR SCHERTZ CHAMBER?

16 of the most talented youth around performed on August 25th at Samuel Clemens High School. The event, produced by the Schertz Chamber’s young professionals group, hYPer, raised funds to enable scholarships for two national competition finalists (one from Clemens and one from Steele) in their DECA Programs. Thank you to all our contestants: winner Merilette Graff, second place winner Katryna Martalla, third place winner Haylee Oliver, and contestants Matthew O’Neil, Noelle Segapeli, Cassie Vigil, Rylee Krkosa, Grace Erwin, Audrey Erwin, Jackie Martinez, Rachel Gravenmier, Justin Gonzales, Haley Rohrer, Ariana Guerra, Emily Boyd and Tessa Hall. Photo courtesy of City of Schertz Public Affairs Department.

OCTOBER CHAMBER EVENTS Biz-Ed Breakfast:

Educate your Business Cents! Breakfast provided by RBFCU. Wednesday, October 24th from 7:30 -9 am at the Schertz Chamber/Visitor Center, 1730 Schertz Parkway in Schertz. Free to SCOC Members, non-members $10. Please RSVP your attendance.

New Friends, New Beginnings Only fifteen minutes from Schertz, Rio Terra offers a renewed focus on healthy living, terrific food and social activity. Discover how our “Resident First”philosophy can redefine your retirement. Meet your new friends at Rio Terra today! Call (830) 221-4800 for a tour and lunch on us.

After-Hours Mixer

Wednesday, October 10th from 5:30 – 7 pm hosted by: 3009 Self Storage, 17305 IH35 North (Schertz). Free to SCOC Members. Food, Prizes and More! Chamber Ca$h drawing.

Chamber Luncheon on Sept. 18th

Tuesday, October 16th from 11:30 am – 1 pm at the Schertz Civic Center, Guest Speaker: Michelle Sanchez from City of Schertz Development Services. RSVP by Tuesday, October 9th (Please visit our Chamber website for Luncheon policy) Members - $18, Non-Members $28 Prepaid

Ask us about our Veterans Aid and Attendance! 2294 E. Common St. New Braunfels, TX 78130 Independent Living

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Chamber Luncheon with guest speaker Karen Meade of “Let’s Get Organizing”

WANT TO JOIN THE CHAMBER?

Want to increase your business, visibility and networking opportunities? Come join the Schertz Chamber of Commerce! Call us at 210-566-9000 or come by and visit at 1730 Schertz Parkway in Schertz. Help us “Build a Better Tomorrow”

After Hours Mixer at Lion & Rose at Celebrating Hands N Harmony NEW the Forum Location on Main Street

Meet the Candidates:

Wednesday, October 17th from 6-8 pm at the Schertz Civic Center Bluebonnet Room. Question & Answer session with Schertz Mayoral candidates Steve White, Michael Carpenter and Cedric Edwards! FREE and open to the public It just makes “cents” to join the Schertz Chamber of Commerce! Unique networking opportunities, education, advocacy and more! Call us at 210-5669000 or come by and visit at 1730 Schertz Parkway in Schertz. Help us “Build a Better Tomorrow.” OCTOBER 2012 SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM

Talk Townz OF THE

Kitchen Kudoz

Local Grill Master Wins Big! By Andrea M. Allinger

UVALDE

NATIVE

ERNEST

Servantes Jr. has always been comfort-

able in the kitchen, since his boyhood days of hanging out in his grandmother’s restaurant to his first job as a waiter and dishwasher at New Braunfels’ own Huisache Grill. Sixteen years after his first restaurant paycheck comes a much bigger payoff — the $50,000 grand prize as the winner of the Food Network’s “Chopped Grill Masters” in August. As the pit boss of the Burnt Bean Company, Servantes and his right-hand woman and wife of eight years, Belinda, have competed in South Central Texas cook-offs and competitions for the past five years. Cooking competitions are a family affair for the Servantes family, as their children, Sabrina, 7, and Ernest III, 14, attend and assist. Sabrina is coined the “Burnt Bean Company’s number one fan and official trophy carrier.” Servantes also boasts that his daughter is following in her dad’s successful footsteps as she develops a knack for seasoning food. The Burnt Bean Company’s tasty creations have been smelled, tasted, and awarded at both SchertzFest and the Schertz Jubilee in years past. As executive chef at Texas Lutheran University for the past seven years, Servantes laughs as he declares he is “captain of the ship,” overseeing the food production for more than 2,000 meals daily. The daily demands of his job helped prepare Servantes for the stress of “Chopped Grill Masters,” although he said the show was “the hardest thing (he’d) ever done,

continued on page 20 OCTOBER 2012 SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM

Talk Townz OF THE

coming up with things on the fly and working with things (he) wasn’t used to.”

Kitchen Kudoz

Local Grill Master CONT’D FROM PAGE 19

After winning episode three, Servantes advanced to the final round, where he was given a mystery basket containing sardines, a Mayan anise liqueur, sloppy joe mix, and corn. For dessert, he pulled off a local favorite, tres leches cake, out of the given ingredients of quail eggs, pound cake, whole coconut, and strawberry cream tequila. He remembers that he had “twenty minutes and no time to think, so I just had to go with what I knew,” which in the end impressed the judges enough to crown him winner of the final round. As the youngest contestant on the show, 33-year-old Servantes felt intimidated by the other contestants at first — most of whom had competed against Iron Chefs in their careers. He called himself the dark horse and underdog going into the show, with his experience limited to restaurants and local cook-off competitions. After a week of competing, Servantes grew close to the other contestants and gained a lot of respect. In fact, Servantes has become so close to other final round contestants, Ray Lampe, Sam Choy, and Kent Rollins, that he calls them lifelong friends and reports that he talks to his former competitors once a week. Servantes was one of two contestants representing Texas in the competition. The other was Nicole Davenport of Fredericksburg, who was eliminated in episode 2.

SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM OCTOBER 2012

During the taping of the show, contestants’ cellphones were confiscated, thus Servantes’ family and friends did not know they were among the reigning grill master until the show aired. Servantes invited 50 friends and family members to a viewing party at Faust Brewery in New Braunfels and to his surprise, an extra 300 community members showed up to support the local chef. Servantes commented, “it meant a lot that the community came out to support me,” and the local fans were rewarded by watching Servantes win the “Chopped Grill Masters” grand prize with the winner himself. As for Servantes’ children, the win means more than a paycheck or title — it means a trip to Disney World. “I don’t know if they are more excited I won or that they get to go to Disney World,” Servantes said with a laugh.

Servantes lives in New Braunfels with his family and since winning “Chopped Grill Masters,” he has enjoyed an influx of local support and thanks from surrounding small towns, including his hometown of Uvalde. Both high school students and teachers have contacted Servantes about his big accomplishment, thanking him for giving them hope of achieving their dreams even though they are from small towns in Texas. For Servantes, that is the real prize. “At the end of the day, I really wanted to be able to inspire.”

Talk Townz OF THE

Entertainmentz

The Wheels on the Bus Go ‘Round and ‘Round SCUCISD BUS DRIVER BRINGS SMILES AND REWARDS By Andrea M. Allinger THE BEGINNING OF THE SCHOOL year smells of freshly sharpened pencils, looks of brand new backpacks, and sounds like the squeak of brakes on a yellow school bus early in the morning. With the excitement of the impending school year comes the apprehension of the unknown: new teachers, friends, and bullies. Luckily for the youngsters of the Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City Independent School District, one bus driver in particular encourages them to act their best both on the bus and in school.

Hime works as a substitute bus driver and although she works daily, the routes change often. As a result, Hime deals with a variety of ages, ranging from elementary to high school, so improvisation along with a healthy dose of patience is necessary. Beginning with her youngest students, Hime teaches them how to behave on her bus and consequently any other situations they may encounter. By giving them small prizes and rewards, she positively reinforces behavior that is appropriate in children of all ages.

The wheels on bus driver Fran Hime’s buses go around without a hitch thanks to the positive reinforcement of good behavior on her routes.

With support and donations from many local businesses, including Sonic, Chili’s, Romano’s Macaroni Grill, Bush’s Chicken, and Goomba’s Pizzeria, Hime has successfully pioneered and implemented a unique rewards system that encourages children to behave on the buses to and from school by providing them with a little incentive to do so. Hime comments that the local businesses are eager to help because “they get new customers, I get good behavior, and everyone wins.”

With safety as her top priority, Hime has learned the importance of keeping her passengers under control at all times. To do this, Hime emphasizes the kids’ control over their own behavior and reminds them that they “make the choice to misbehave.” She rewards those children who choose the right path while never writing off kids who have a reputation for mischief. Hime began driving buses with the district eight years ago, but has a total of 13 years of bus driving experience under her belt. Her reward system began prior to her employment with SCUCISD when she was with the Northside Independent School District in a particularly rowdy bus. Her son had been collecting basketball cards and offered his extra cards to his mother for her students. Hime chuckles as she remembers the student who sacrificed his priceless rookie Shaquille O’Neal card due to his bad judgment, remarking “for three years I never had a problem with him again.”

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SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM OCTOBER 2012 SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM OCTOBER 2012

Hime stresses that she has to be in control to teach the children how to behave on the bus because there is a positive outcome. The immediate outcome may be a gift certificate to Sonic, a Highlights Magazine, or a dictionary — but the real gift is the long-term responsibility over one’s own actions that Hime instills in all of the students who ride her bus. Humor seeks a permanent home in Hime, who recalls with laughter the instance of a generally unruly boy who won a ticket to Schlitterbahn during an end of the year raffle she held on her bus. The system Hime had that year gave kids who had not been written up more entries than those who had, although a student

with only one entry won the ticket. When Hime presented the boy’s father with the tickets, he asked in shock if she’d gotten the right child. “God really wanted him to have the ticket because of his mercy,” Hime said with a laugh. In 2006, after getting unexpected life insurance funds from her late husband, Hime set aside 10 percent of the money as a scholarship for her seniors’ books during their first year of college. The values instilled on Hime’s school bus carry the students past their school age years and into adulthood, and Hime is the perfect example of selflessness and a strong sense of community for her students. The schools appreciate Hime’s work as well. Schertz Elementary recognized students who had exemplary achievement on Hime’s bus over the intercom and presented them with their certificates in school. Administrators and parents alike recognize the goodness that Hime is directly responsible for, and thank her with invitations to their children’s swim meets and birthday parties. Hime admits that “sometimes (the students) really get under my skin, and sometimes I just have to pull over” to compose herself. Her no nonsense attitude and realism about the stresses of maintaining patience are grounding and remind parents that their children are truly safe in her hands. She is a woman who has dedicated so much of her life to the community and sees goodness in everyone.

OCTOBER 2012 SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM

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OCTOBER EVENTS Civic Center:

Oct. 5-6 Alamo Area Square and Round Dance Conference

Oct. 16 Schertz Chamber Luncheon

Upcoming Events: Nov. 8 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Schertz Chamber Awards Banquet 1400 Schertz Pkwy, Bldg. #5

Oct. 10 TXDOT IH 35 PEL Study - Public Meeting #4

(210) 619-1600

FEATUREZ

Metro Ambulance Grows with Schertz By Lucille Sims Thomas

IT IS VERY EASY TO TELL WHEN someone really likes their job. It is even easier to tell when someone has a passion for what they do and they live and breathe it. It is clear that Susan BaldwinBeck, who with husband Brian owns Metro Ambulance, absolutely loves her job.

an ambulance in their driveway and were ready to go when needed.

Susan has been involved in the EMS business in one form or another since she was a teenager. The daughter of longtime Schertz Mayor Hal Baldwin, who died in April, says she was motivated by her parents’ example.

At 18, Susan received training, started working as a volunteer EMT for the city of Schertz and has never looked back. She said she might have been the city’s first female paramedic.

After a Schertz teenager bled to death because it took medical help so long to arrive, Hal Baldwin decided the city needed its own volunteer EMS service. The Schertz Area Facility for Emergency Services (SAFES) was started in the 1970s by Baldwin and other community members and was the predecessor to Schertz EMS. Baldwin and wife Barbara would jump into action when altered to a medical emergency by a special radio. They kept 26 26

At age 15, Susan was working in a nursing home and loving it. She was watching her parents and others provide volunteer EMS services for Schertz and waiting to join them.

Established in 1994, Metro Ambulance is the largest privately owned ambulance company in South Texas. Metro works with Schertz EMS to make sure the city is adequately covered for both emergency services and medical transport services. Baldwin-Beck makes it clear the two services complement each other and there is no competition. “We don’t ever compete for business. They handle the 911 business and we handle all the other stuff. We have con-

tracts to transport people from hospital to hospital, nursing homes transports, Foley (catheter) changes, etc. We complement each other well,” Baldwin-Beck said. Susan’s journey to owning her own ambulance company began when a friend gave her name to a doctor who owned a private ambulance company and was looking for someone to go in and clean it up. “Well I did,” she said. “I took the company people from a one-room closet on the Southside to a multi-million dollar ambulance service.” She went in and helped turn the place around — getting rid of old ambulances and making sure employee certifications were up to date. Susan started a training program and within a couple of years the company was doing well. Later, the same doctor contacted her and asked her to take over another Southside ambulance service and turn it around. She went in and did the same thing and

continued on page 28 SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM OCTOBER OCTOBER 2012 2012 SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM

OCTOBER 2012 SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM

Metro Ambulance Grows with Schertz continued from pg 27

realized she was good at running an ambulance service.

FEATUREZ “Most of the time I would be standing out in the middle of a ball field with a giant cell phone yelling at my daughter’s softball game and my son’s baseball game on the other side.” Brian, soon came around and jumped on board as her master mechanic keeping her ambulances running smoothly. “He is just absolutely brilliant when it comes to the repair and refurbishment of these vehicles and equipment,” she said. Even after she started Metro Ambulance she still volunteered for SAFES since Schertz EMS was often a little short on paramedics.

At about the same time, she also realized that Schertz could use a private ambulance service to supplement the city’s EMS services.

Susan said the need for her service has gotten bigger and bigger but she reiterates that Metro Ambulance works in conjunction with Schertz EMS. Metro Ambulance often takes any overflow from Schertz EMS and if an incident is not emergent, they may be called to take it so Schertz EMS can be free for emergency calls.

FEATUREZ

Today, Metro Ambulance has 33 ambulances, 30 wheelchair vans, 100 ambulance personnel, 25 care cab workers, 15 dispatch personnel, 20 billing personnel and 10 people in field operations. The company has transported sick people as far away as San Diego, Calif. Baldwin-Beck works seven days a week, has worked in every area of her company and used to oversee hiring before training someone she trusted enough to meet her

She told her husband Brian : “I know how to do this and I can foresee the need for a private service in our area. I’m telling you we need this service in our area.” Susan said she sensed a need for hospital transportation, emergency and nonemergency transportation, nursing home transportation, dialysis transportation and specialized transportation. Even though her husband was not thrilled with the idea of her leaving a very good job to step out on her own, she believed she could make it work. For a while she was the only paramedic and worked out of her house. The first couple of days, she said she thought the phone would never ring. A friend owned Autumn Winds Nursing Home and she got her first call from there. Using an ambulance she purchased and cleaned up, she picked up her first patient and while on that call, the phone rang again and soon she was on her second ambulance run. “After that we never stopped – just boom, boom, boom,” Baldwin-Beck said. With the help of her mother-in-law and parents she would forward the phone line if she had to do something with her kids. 28

Schertz EMS: “I could have done that for the rest of my life because I loved EMS — I loved patient care. But after awhile it got to be where I would just only do that and I wasn’t paying as much attention to my ambulance business as I should have been,” Baldwin-Beck said. Eventually, she made the decision to let something go. She decided to let her paramedic certification slide, so although she can still get on the ambulances with her staff and oversee what they do, she can’t do anything invasive. But she still makes suggestions and oversees patient care.

SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM OCTOBER 2012

standards. The vast majority of the people Metro Ambulance transports are elderly and Baldwin-Beck has a special place in her heart for them. She makes it clear to the young paramedics that she hires that her elderly patients must be treated with r speccial respect. “I am very picky about the caliber of medic that we put out in this field. They are a direct reflection of me. And that is a direct reflection of my roots — so they have to be good,” she said.

Proud Past, Fast-Moving Future By Chuck McCollough

SOMETIMES THE FUTURE SHOWS UP EARLY IN SCHERTZ. In the field of emergency medical transport, Schertz EMS is the first kid on the block with new types of ambulances - at least when it comes to the bigger and smaller ones in this area. Schertz EMS is nationally and internationally recognized for its large scale emergency preparedness and response abilities. EMS

Director Dudley Wait has travelled as far away as New Zealand to talk about large scale public health evacuation. Schertz also is an agency known for innovation and thinking outside the box. Nowhere is that more true than when looking at the department’s input on next generation ambulances - large and small.

continued on page 30 OCTOBER 2012 SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM

FEATUREZ

Schertz EMS

continued from pg 29

The Mass Casualty Evacuation Ambulanceor Ambus - is a prime example. As the name implies, it is a bus-size ambulance that can carry up to 20 patients and gives Schertz EMS the ability to respond to local, regional or statewide emergency situations with a major asset.

school district officials contacted all the parents. It took about 45 minutes to treat all the patients and move them to the Ambus,” Wait said. “The Schertz EMS Ambus, one of 2 in the region and 13 in the state, has been in service and housed in Schertz since December. This was the first time it was used for transporting patients and it performed flawlessly,” Wait noted. “This allowed Schertz EMS to move 11 patients in one vehicle with the staff from one ambulance instead of utilizing 6 ambulances,” the EMS director said. In non-emergency situations, the Ambus has been used for such things as “firefighter rehab” and as backup for possible

Wait said the Ambus concept was born out of the experience of Hurricanes Rita and Katrina, which sent large numbers of storm evacuees to San Antonio. City of Schertz emergency responders were part of the regional effort to deal with those storm evacuees. “We (Schertz EMS) did a lot of research and talked to bus builders about a better way to evacuate large numbers of people. They listened and took ideas and lessons learned from those two storms and came up with Ambus,” Wait said. On the other end of the scale, Schertz EMS used its broad experience in dealing with emergencies to help design smaller, less ex-

Schertz got its Ambus – the first in the San Antonio area - in September 2011 and put it into service several months later. The Alamo City received its Ambus several weeks ago giving the region two of the giant ambulances.

A truck ran into the back of a SchertzCibolo-Universal City-School District bus in front of Steele High School in Cibolo injuring nearly a dozen students and the adult driver. The Ambus was called and transported the students and driver to a local hospital where they were treated for mostly minor injuries. “The Cibolo FD and Schertz EMS crews began to immobilize the patients while 30

admission. What Community Paramedicine does is interject primary health care into the situation before it becomes an emergency situation,” Wait said.

Another area where Schertz EMS has shown innovation is partnerships with hospitals in dealing with cardiac patients (EMS has use of hands-free CPR devices thanks to one such partnership).

In fact, there is no finer example of the cando spirit of Schertz than the legacy of ambulance service in this community.

One of the more interesting ideas that Schertz EMS is considering is something called Community Paramedicine.

The Schertz Ambus is a federal asset issued to the City of Schertz, which then provides insurance and maintenance for the big vehicle, Wait said. The federal government placed the Ambus in Schertz in part because of its geographic location and also because of the city’s track record, leadership and reputation for regional and statewide emergency response, the EMS Director noted. The Ambus has been used in various nonemergency ways over the last nine months, but got its first emergency use in a scary situation in early September.

try will listen. In five years you will see the smaller ambulances everywhere because of changing ambulance regulations and requirements,” he said.

“Essentially, this is an effort to reinstitute the old house call that doctors made years ago,” Wait said.

evacuation of elderly patients from a nursing home. “The firefighter rehab includes letting firefighters battling a large fire take a break, come inside the bus, rehydrate, and be checked by medical staff before going back to the firefight. Ambus is regularly deployed to structure and brush fires in the area for that role,” he said. It also has been used in a number of regional disaster evacuation drills including a large one in Corpus Christi. And, emergency and medical officials from all over the U.S. and foreign nations like Mexico and Chile have toured the Ambus and tapped into Schertz EMS’ experience for ideas to improve their programs back home.

SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM OCTOBER 2012

pensive and more EMS-staff friendly ambulances. “The newer ambulances we are getting around the first of the year are a little smaller and more fuel efficient than the current ambulances we use. Schertz EMS helped come up with the concept and design for a smaller ambulance that had forward-facing seats so the paramedics can remain seatbelted as much as possible,” Wait said. The changes include seat belts to better protect crew in the back of the ambulance and a smaller interior that lets EMTs reach equipment easier while seated. “If you have a good idea, the ambulance indus-

“Today in EMS the only model we have is using the most expense method of transportation - an ambulance - to take a patient to the most expensive place for health care – the hospital.”

From a group of volunteer residents rising to the challenge of providing family, friends and neighbors emergency medical transport in the 1970s to a nationally recognized department – Schertz EMS is a success story. Schertz EMS currently operates four Mobile Intensive Care Unit (MICU) ambulances 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The department also has two reserve ambulances.

It has 24 full-time paramedics, 15 part-time paramedics and 5 part-time EMT-Intermediates who respond to over 7,000 requests for emergency services annually across a coverage area of over 220 square miles Schertz EMS began as a volunteer group of local citizens who responded to help their neighbors. The organization, known as the Schertz Area Facility for Emergency Services or SAFES began operations on April 1, 1974 providing ambulance services to Schertz and the surrounding area. This organization grew, matured and eventually became a full-time paid department within the city and was renamed to Schertz EMS on October 1, 2000.

Wait said Community Paramedicine for Schertz EMS could be sending one paramedic in a car to a person’s house to take their blood pressure, weigh them and go over their medicine regiment. That proactive, preventive medicine approach would benefit the patient, save the insurance company or government agency money and would be a new revenue stream for Schertz EMS. “The insurance or government agency could pay Schertz EMS $150 or $200 for the visit instead of $30,000 for a hospital

OCTOBER 2012 SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM

FEATUREZ

“Going to State?” Perennial Question for Steele By Mary Holman-Anderson

When a community is home to a twice state-bound and once state championship football team, the oft-asked question is “Are we going to state again, coach?” With two solid wins and players like Justin Stockton already racking up the yards, (Stockton carried for 496 yards in just two games), it’s easy to feel hopeful for another state bid, but Steele Knights head Coach Michael Jinks sees a bigger picture, and so do his players. “It’s an exciting time; we talk about it as a coaching staff, and as players,” Jinks said. “The focus is not just winning or losing but on being grateful for the opportunities we’re being given.

“To me, Steele has one of the best programs in the country...” “First, praise God,” Cunningham said of his first night on the starting lineup. “The team helped me make a good start.” Cunningham echoed Jinks philosophy of preparedness and keeping the game in perspective. “We have to trust in all our teammates,” Cunningham said. “If one guy comes

well as off the field to make us better men.” The similarity in the coachs’ philosophies is tied to their long history. “It was kind of strange those first couple of ball games without Johnston. We lost Mark Pavlovsky this year, also, and we’d all been together for so long,” Jinks said. Despite the recent changes, Jinks still re-

Keeping the wins in perspective is important, according to the coach who started the program seven years ago. “We don’t want to let those opportunities pass us by,” Jinks said. “We want to make sure that we’re looking at this game the right way; we need to stay humble.”

Photos by Raphael Gomez

Jinks focuses not on the limelight but on the ability to highlight his players’ talents and affect their futures. “We’re at a place where we can help open up some rare opportunities for these kids,” Jinks said. “A lot of us have been in places that weren’t like this, and it makes us appreciate it all the more.”

32 32

One of those opportunities came at a tough loss for both the team and for injured defensive back Erik Huhn, who has signed to the University of Texas, in the preseason opener. Junior Carl Cunningham seized that opportunity and stepped into the spotlight against Judson and finished the night with two interceptions.

down you have another one ready. That’s how coach prepares us — to be ready at any time, and that’s how we take on things. Unfortunately, things happen, but we just have to be ready to go.” The seven years that Jinks and Clemens’ new head coach Jared Johnston coached together is apparent. Players on both teams reflect the real-world perspective of their sports programs. “To me Steele has one of the best programs in the country,” Cunningham said. “Coach Jinks tries to help us out on the field as

members the early days. When they interviewed me for this job they asked, ‘How are you going to help develop the school’s identity, but this community already had a strong identity,” Jinks said. “The kids in the community were already used to being very successful.” Steele Principal Mike Wohlfarth sees the athletic programs impact on the school and community identity. “The impact of athletic programs on the culture of a high school campus is huge.

continued on page 34 SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM OCTOBER 2012 SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM OCTOBER 2012

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provement before we even knew what it was. Wohlfarth points out that Steele’s success is school wide. “Success isn’t limited to football at Steele — our volleyball team is in the playoffs every year and our girl’s basketball team went to the state tournament three years in a row,” Wohlfarth said. “We’ve won the district UIL Academic competitions multiple times and have been a TEA Recognized campus four years in a row. Life is good at Byron P. Steele II High School,” he said. Coach Jinks also recognizes Steele’s growing role as a leader in the community. “When we first started, the stands were half empty, but last night, at the Judson game, it was a great thing — to look out and see those stands packed,” Jinks said. “This place has become bigger than any one person, one kid, or one coach. At Steele, we only have one coach teaching PE because everybody is part of something around here — that’s rare especially in today’s society.”

“Going to State?” Steele

continued from pg 33

As you can imagine, when the athletic programs are successful, the overall mood of the campus is good, Wohlfarth said. “Obviously, we have had some great athletes (male and female) over the past several years, and when a program, such as our football team, has had the amount of success … that we’ve experienced, the culture becomes one of expectation and excitement.” Wohlfarth, too, recognizes the community’s part in the success. “I cannot emphasize enough that those same athletes have been great kids,” 34

Superintendent Dr. Greg Gibson underscored that point when he spoke to each campus’ sports boosters when they were preparing the football programs for both high schools.

FEATUREZ “I love every aspect of what healthy competition can do for a community,” Gibson said. “Whether you are a player on the field, a band member, trainer, cheerleader, dance team member or a fan in the stands, the feeling is the same.” Jinks also recognizes the rare quality of the SCUC community. While many cities wish they could close their doors, SCUC remains a place where people find a home even when times are tough. “I think it’s interesting that of 24 players that we’ve had sign to major universities in the past seven years, seven of those young men came here from Louisiana in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. ” Jinks said this is evidence of the both a welcoming community and the tendency to be “grateful for the opportunities we’re being given and certain that we don’t let those pass us by.” “Let’s maximize our preparation, maximize our efforts,” Jinks said, “and be thankful that we have the opportunity to be here.” Steele’s winning tradition has become a legacy passed on from player to player according to Coach Jinks. “Our players saw the best players on the team model the things that we believe in — there’s no celebrating after touchdowns, no trash talking,” he said. “When your superstars are in line and do what they’re supposed to do, it makes my job a lot easier,” Jinks said. “These players allow us to coach them; they ask for more; they want to be coached, they want to be great.”

Jinks reflected the sentiments of a proud community.

Wohlfarth said. “Our parents and community have done a wonderful job in raising these student athletes.” The principal also notes the contribution of the entire coaching staff on student’s lives and athletic success. “Of course you need great players to help you win, but the coaches at Steele have done an outstanding job of creating an atmosphere that breeds success,” Wohlfarth said. “They build relationships with kids, teachers and families and get the best out of the athletes on the field and in the classroom … (by) becoming role models for Performance Excellence/Continuous Im-

SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM OCTOBER 2012

“You can’t help but keep a smile on your face and a song in your heart when you see kids play at this level.”

FEATUREZ

The Johnston Era Begins at Clemens By Mary Holman-Anderson

SAMUEL CLEMENS HIGH SCHOOL might be the “old school” in Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City Independent School District with traditions going back nearly 50 years, but this year’s football program, under the leadership of new head Coach Jared Johnston is brand new — and the players are already the new coach’s biggest fans. “I love Coach Johnston’s philosophy and what he believes in,” said Zach Medina, a senior and free safety. “He believes that we can do whatever we put our minds to.” The feeling is mutual, according to Johnston, who left his position as first assistant to state champion Coach Michael Jinks at Steele High School to move into the head coach position at Clemens last May. “It’s been a blessing; I’m super excited to be here,” Johnston said. “The way the kids have responded, the way the faculty and the community have responded, I couldn’t have asked for better.”

Johnston, no newcomer to the community, wasn’t surprised when he walked onto his new field and met his new team. “Being in the community for the last seven or eight years, I knew what kind of kids I was going to have. I got here and found ‘Yes sir, No sir’ kids; they do everything you ask them to do,” Johnston said. “You’ve got to give credit to the parents who are raising them.” But the coach, with 14 years’ experience under his belt, kept his mind and eyes open when the pads went on. “You can do all the lifting and running you want, but everything changes when they put pads on,” Johnston said. “I told the kids when I got here that every position was open. I suited up 59 kids the first night, and I bet you that for 49 or 50, it was their first time to ever be under the lights. The team’s recent head-ons with 5A giants like Taft and Wagner are just part of the plan, Johnston said, and the players under-

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stand that facing tough adversaries early on is part of the process. “We’re playing good 5A teams with good programs, and any time you play programs that do it right, it makes you a better team,” Johnston said. “The kids know that it’s about the process — it’s about getting better every snap. We might start 0 and 2, but it all goes back to trusting the process.” The players are willing to face the big challenges, understand the process and embrace the coach’s strategy. “I honestly think things are going well. I know that last game looked like a tough loss, but we played really well,” Medina said. “Facing tough teams now is better because every step we take to become better makes us learn and gets us ready for district.” Football may be the focus from the stands, but it’s the “icing on the cake” according to Johnston.

“We’re preparing these kids for life. That’s why I’m here,” Johnston said. “There are different challenges on that football field than there are in life, but they’re connected. My coaches all model that and try to send the message that how you handle adversity now is how you will handle it in life, and that’s the kind of man you’re going to be.”

myself, and I expect from my coaches, Johnston said. “We’re going to lead by example; I’m not going to ask these kids to do anything we’re not prepared to do.”

and has a set plan, step by step,” Medina said. “If you’re not on time, you’re not going to play. He’s teaching us discipline for later on in life.”

Coach Johnston doesn’t just run drills on the field. Many lessons happen reviewing film, in the locker room, and in the huddle.

Johnston takes a big picture view of this process and these players.

Clemens leadership sees the wealth of opportunity that Johnston and his new coaching staff bring not only to the field but to the campus as a whole.

“I’ve told them that greatness is little things all stacked on top of each other,” Johnston said. “When I ask them, ‘What’s greatness?’ they say, “Little things stacked on top of each other, coach.”

“The addition of Coach Johnston has been like a breath of fresh air; his enthusiasm, work ethic, and high expectations of athletes has improved our school climate,” Clemens Principal Melissa Sosa said. Good news spreads fast. The first week’s football pep rally found the gym half full, with students opting to stay in class rather than attend. By the next week, the student body filled the stands to capacity and were on their feet when the coach addressed the crowd.

Johnston’s players are hungry for the process and for the plan and welcome the consistent message of discipline, dedication and character. “He’s very organized and goal-oriented

“What I want our kids to do is to prepare themselves – everything we do, whether we are on the football field, in the classroom or in our community, you’ve got to do it like a champion,” Johnston said.

“I want them to learn to do things right because good things happen to good people. We need to keep doing the right thing.”

“The student body is excited about the ‘new feel’ of our football team, Sosa said. “The enthusiasm at pep rallies and increased attendance at football games is exciting to witness.” Johnston isn’t afraid to step up to the microphone or walk the walk to build trust with his players and the student body. “Everything I expect from my players, I expect from

OCTOBER 2012 SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM

“A DOCTOR’S CONFESSION TO THE CITY OF SCHERTZ…” Dear Friend, I want to give credit where credit is due. So, perhaps a confession can help clear the air so there’s no misunderstanding, Before I talk about my confession, though, let me say a few other things first. Let me start by explaining the photo in this letter. You know, when I meet people in town they usually say, “Oh, yeah, I know you, you’re Dr. Martin. I’ve seen your ad with that picture of you and the two cute kids.” Well, I’m the guy in the middle. Years ago I was a college baseball player, but I developed a painful neck, shoulder and arm condition. In my case it came on suddenly. The pain in my hands was so intense that I couldn’t raise my arm above my head or even throw a baseball. I was afraid that I would lose my scholarship if it continued. I went to my trainer and medical doctor and was given anti-inflammatories. The problem with those medications is that they just mask the symptoms and in my case did not help. Finally, after steroid injections I decided against it. But, there’s more…A family member of mine convinces me to give their doctor a try. This new doctor did an exam, took some films, and then “adjusted” my spine. The adjustment didn’t hurt, it actually felt good. I got relief, and I could use my arm again. Oh, did I mention that this doctor is a chiropractor. It worked so well that I went to chiropractic school myself. Now for McKenna and Cooper, who are the cute kids in the picture. They get adjusted regularly and are some of the healthiest kids you will know. Their mom is also problem-free even with all the bending and lifting a busy mom of two does. It might seem like a small thing, but it makes a big difference to her.

It’s strange how life is, because now people come to see me with their neck, arm and shoulder problems. Also they come to me with their headaches, migraines, chronic pain, carpal tunnel, whiplash from car accidents, backaches, ear infections, asthma, allergies, numbness in limbs, athletic injuries, just to name a few. Here’s what some of my patients had to say: “I have not had a headache in months”- (Mary J.) “Mood and attitude have improved” – (Lisa A.) Several times a day patients thank me for helping them with their health problems. But I can’t really take the credit. My confession is that I’ve never healed anyone of anything. What I do is perform a specific spinal adjustment to remove nerve pressure, and the body responds by healing itself. We get tremendous results. It’s a simple as that! Forty-eight million Americans no longer have health insurance, and those who do have found that their benefits are reduced. That’s where my I come in. I have a significantly lower fee plan so that more people are able to afford the care they need. A whole week of care in my office costs what you could pay for one visit elsewhere. Studies show that people actually pay less for their long-term overall health care expenses if they are seeing a chiropractor. You Benefit from an Amazing Offer- Look, you are going to write a check to someone for your health care expenses, you may as well write one for a lesser amount for chiropractic. When you bring in this article, you will receive my entire new patient exam for $17. That’s with an evaluation and X-Rays….the whole ball of wax. But, please call right away because this offer expires on October 31, 2012, and I don’t want you to miss out.

JPll Looking Forward to Good Season Special To Schertz Magazine

-Patrick W. Martin, D.C. P.S. When accompanied by the first, I am also offering the second family member this same examination for only $10. P.S.S. Your time is just as valuable as ours, that’s why we will be with you promptly at your appointment.

By the way, further care is very affordable and you’ll be happy to know that I have affordable plans. You see I’m

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not trying to seduce you to come see me with this low start up fee, then to only make it up with high fees after that. Further care is very important to consider when making your choice of doctor. High costs can add up very quickly. Great care at a great fee…Please, I hope that there’s no misunderstanding about quality of care just because I have a lower fee. You’ll get great care at a great fee. My qualifications…I’m a Magna cum Laude graduate of Cleveland Chiropractic College and a Strength and Conditioning Specialist. I’ve been entrusted to take care of tiny babies to pro athletes that you may know. After practicing for four years in San Antonio I moved my practice to Schertz. I just have a low exam fee to help more people who need care. My Associate, Dr. Kyle Stringer, brings over five years of experience to our practice with the latest in pain-free techniques. My assistant is Melissa, and she is really a great person. Our office is both friendly and warm and we try our best to make you feel at home. We have a wonderful service, at an exceptional fee. Our office is called Schertz Chiropractic and it is at 17323 IH 35 North Ste 106, (we are between 3009 and Schertz Parkway on the 35 South Access Road). Our phone number is 210-646-6000. Call Melissa or me today for an appointment. We can help you. Thank you.

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THE JOHN PAUL II GUARDIANS ENTER THE 2012 SEASON with a new coach, a new district, and great expectations. Coach Ed McCabe brings a 90-71 overall coaching record with him and is excited about building a strong program at John Paul II Catholic High School. Assisting Coach McCabe is Joe Matulich, who has established a very successful high school coaching career in Central Texas, as well as Jerry Myers and Dustin Karrer. The Guardians move up to TAPPS Division III, District 5 which features last year’s state champions Hallettsville Sacred Heart and state runners-up Shiner St. Paul. Coach McCabe states that “Having three district teams that finished last season with at least 11 wins will be a challenge, but the team is excited to see how we measure up. Our players have worked extremely hard this fall and are improving daily. I am eager to see the growth and progress of this team each week..”

scrimmages during the month of August, the Guardians opened the regular season on Thursday, September 6 against Giddings State School. Included in this year’s non-district schedule is a mix of public and private schools including UIL 4A Austin Eastside Memorial. “I was pleased with the effort in our first game of the season. We were able to consistently move the ball on offense and showed flashes of good defense. Overall it was a good start to the season and we need to continue to improve in all phases of the game. As with most opening games, we will need to eliminate the mental mistakes as we move forward,” McCabe said.

The Guardians will look to team captains senior Joe Knotts and junior Mike McCabe for leadership throughout the year. Knotts will anchor the offensive front at center as well as the defense as middle linebacker. McCabe has transitioned well to quarterback after playing tight end as a sophomore and will be a duel threat to run and pass for the Guardians this year. He also will be working at linebacker on the defensive side of the ball. Juniors Cameron Ahrens and Jarrod Ponce will provide experience and leadership on both front lines. Coach McCabe added, “We are a very young squad. As a result, we will rely heavily on the work ethic of our upperclassmen, counting on them to set the standard for our younger players each and every day.” After competing in three OCTOBER 2012 SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM

So...

You Think You Can Write By Kari Bridges MODERN BOOK PUBLISHING OFFERS authors more opportunities and a wider array of options than ever before. Innovations such as e-book publishing and printon-demand (POD) services have allowed authors to pursue self-publication using either a Web-based publishing platform or a custom printing service. Traditional and self-publishing each offer specific advantages that authors should consider in determining which arrangement will work best to meet their individual needs, circumstances and goals.

termination. They both candidly discussed the complex process of submitting story ideas, editing and formatting, creating a cover design, obtaining book reviews and distributing and promoting their book from beginning to end. Author Chris Sandahl describes his book Babies Can Smell Fear: Mishaps and May-

Traditionally, an author would hire a literary agent to represent them in publishing their book. The advantages include: advance in royalties, professional editing services, publishing costs, and marketing and promoting. Self-publishing authors have the advantage of controlling the timing of when their books will be published, who edits and formats the book, and who creates the cover design. The author also retains the rights to the book, coordinates the majority of the marketing and promoting and determines which business will receive and distribute their book. I recently had the opportunity to talk to two local, newly self-published authors about what they have learned, and what can be expected, based on their experiences undertaking the challenging process of self-publishing a book. Though both men have never met and have different styles of writing, they share similarities in personal attributes and de40

SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM OCTOBER 2012

hem from the First Year of Fatherhood as the first book in a series of humorous stories on being a first-time parent. The book was recently honored with the Mom’s Choice Award in the category of best book with parenting humor.

Sandahl earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration with an emphasis in marketing from the University of Texas in Austin before working for the San Antonio Spurs. He began writing his book three years ago initially as a blog. He and his family live in Schertz and he is employed by Global Realty Group off Schertz Parkway. Author Brian Stanford describes his book The Mark of Gomorrah as the first book in a science fiction trilogy that introduces a complex storyline and characters who have continued to grow and change over six years. In this book, the reader is introduced to a new world where seven people, The Chosen, have been selected by God to save the world by impacting the outcome of the final battle between Lucifer and the Seraphim, the Angels of Earth. Stanford unknowingly began his literary journey while working on an assignment for a creative writing class at Southwest College in Memphis, Tenn. He was working on his law degree. He and his family live in Cibolo and he works as a claims adjustor for United Health Care Vision in San Antonio. Neither author experienced a lack of inspiration or creativity in the writing of their

books. Other things, such as time away from family, work responsibilities and financial aspects, sometimes got in the way of their literary goals. Both authors are excellent conversationalists who are hardworking and dedicated to their families. They agreed that without the support and encouragement of their wives, family and friends their literary pursuits would not have become reality. After hours of independent research, Sandahl and Stanford chose different options for self-publishing.

finished book look like it was published from a traditional publishing house. “I had so much help from the people around me and the support of family and friends that it was overwhelming in a very positive way and makes it all worthwhile,” Sandahl said. “My biggest challenge was patience. Writing the book turned out to be the easy part. Taking my word document and turning it into a real book took time and patience to get everything just right.” Stanford explained that after submitting his story idea to several major publishers, he decided to self-publish his novel with a POD service. He submitted his manuscript through Amazon’s creative division, self-publishing Website called AmazonCreate Space. Stanford describes the Website as being “very author friendly,” giving broad distribution, affordable services, offering opportunity for chat room discussions with other authors, flexible distribution options and higher royalties. He then spent countless hours editing and proofreading his manuscript with a team -a task he describes as “overwhelming and incredibly time consuming.” He also employed Robert Vasquez, a local graphic artist, who designed a series of different illustrations that he selected from to illustrate the cover and back designs of his book. Stanford quickly learned that he would need to independently obtain a federal tax identification number allowing him to keep the rights and more of the royalties while keeping distribution under his control. That flexibility impacts the number of books published at a single time, control over who receives the books to distribute to the public, and the ability to independently update the text of the manuscript when you want.

Sandahl created his own publishing company called Anchor House Press and printed from a traditional printer instead of POD. He describes his self-publishing experience as a team effort explaining that he hired professional editors and designers to help him reach his goal of making the

“I always wanted to write for a career and I’m excited to see where it goes,” Stanford said. “The whole experience gives you a lot to think about. It’s not easy and brings many challenges, but it’s a great feeling and experience. It’s worth it if you believe in your story,” he added.

continued on page 42 OCTOBER 2012 SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM

Self Publishing Getting More Respect By Chuck McCollough

So...You Think You Can Write continued from pg 41

Both authors work independently on marketing and promoting their books at local book signings and events, as well as distributing them in local bookstores of their choice. They share similar goals for their first books: to obtain enough local sales and exposure to set the pace for publishing multiple books in the future, and to obtain positive book reviews from credible literary sources. “I’m really happy the way things came together and I am extremely happy with the final product. I should have done more research on how long each step of the process takes so that I had more realistic expectations,” Sandahl said. “The whole process was a learning experience and nothing like I thought it would be. I assumed that if you have a good idea and see it through to fruition, people would

be willing to work with you on it; that is not always the case. A lot of people are not in it to help you, but to make money for themselves and they will take advantage of you,” Stanford cautions.

“It’s worth it if you believe in your story.”

Both books can be purchased in either traditional paperback or in e-reader format at www.amazon.com. For more information on upcoming events and information, go to www.babiescansmellfear.com and at www.markofgomorrah.com.

story

SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM OCTOBER 2012

ONCE UPON A TIME, the image of a self-published author was a person with their nose pressed against a window looking into a place hard to enter. Now self-publishing is moving into the mainstream while traditional book publishing is dealing with a paradigm shift in the industry. In fact, the non-traditional self-publishing method could become the traditional method of book publishing in the future, said Schertz Public Library Assistant Library Director Melissa Uhlhorn. “Self-published books are slowly but steadily increasing their presence on library shelves. The method has become more acceptable, more mainstream in the last five to eight years I would say.” Self-publishing has advanced so far in that time that a few public libraries around the nation are trying to partner with self-published writers or those wishing to become one. Uhlhorn said those few libraries are creating their own electronic content servers, need content (stories) and are seeking authors . “Those libraries use the same quality criteria as other libraries for selecting books so the work of self-published authors has to be well edited and well written,” the Schertz librarian said.

“So-called vanity presses have been around for a long time but the books they produce were often something like a church or charity group putting out a cookbook,” Uhlhorn said. The biggest boost to self publishing has been technology advances. The computer and word processing software and especially the Internet give writers the ability to share information, do research and so much more,” she said. “More people have access to the tools to get a book published without going through the traditional publishing house process. In fact, those new tools let authors bypass the ‘middleman’ segment of traditional book publishing for the most part,” Uhlhorn noted. But that isn’t always a good thing. “There is a reason many people go through a traditional book publisher and the process of getting a book published is hard. It is a vetting process that includes strong scrutiny of manuscripts and strong editing to make sure the book meets the standards of the reading public and public libraries. “A good editor is worth every penny they get paid because they make the end product what it is suppose to be,” Uhlhorn said. Self-publishing authors also have an online infrastructure to help get their books published. Just type ‘self publishing’ into a search field and a bunch of resources pop up including through Amazon. “A lot of thwarted authors have been unchained by the advances in self-publishing technology and support groups they can find in blogs and elsewhere. In fact, blogs have been a big factor in the rise of self-publishing by sharing experiences of writers and such,” she said. “Self-publishing brings us new voices and more variety and gives more people a chance to tell their stories. And that benefits everyone,” the librarian said.

OCTOBER 2012 SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM

We are working for you, Schertz!

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October 2012

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New Schertz HR Director Fighting West Nile Virus Schertz EMS Clinical Manager Mike Consentino gets help from Delfina Martinez, a leasing agent at Merritt Lakeside Senior Village, to put up a “Mosquito Buster” poster at Merritt Lakeside. The posters give safety tips on how to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes and thus avoid getting West Nile Virus as well. The posters are part of the City of Schertz community education program on West Nile Virus. Consentino and other emergency responders are also visiting other places for seniors including the Schertz Area Senior Center and nursing homes. City emergency personnel also are passing out posters and information to schools, businesses and other places. For more information on the program go to Schertz.com.

Joshua Smith is the new City of Schertz Human Resources director. He most recently worked at the City of Marble Falls in a similar position. He is originally from Kyle, Texas and graduated from Jack C. Hays High School in Buda. In 2002, Smith received his Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Southwest Texas State University and in 2005 he received his Masters in Industrial/Organizational Psychology from Middle Tennessee State University in Murfreesboro, Tenn. Upon receiving his Master’s degree, Smith worked in Human Resources for the oil and gas and automotive manufacturing industries for the first 3 years of his career. In 2008, Smith moved to municipal government as the Director of Human Resources and Risk Management for the City of Marble Falls, where he worked for 4 years. He is certified as a Senior Professional in Human Resources as well as a Black Belt in Six Sigma. Smith and his wife, Lacey have been married for over 11 years and have a 4-year old son, Lincoln. “I am grateful to be a part of City of Schertz and I look forward to facing new and exciting challenges as this thriving city continues to grow,” said.

OCTOBER 2012 SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM

Civicn ews

Halloween Safety Tips Schertz Mayor Pro Tem George Antuna Jr. and Christy Williams, interim director of the Guadalupe County Children’s Advocacy Center, hold a proclamation honoring Paul Marsh.

City Council Honors Paul Marsh Marsh, a longtime community leader, was honored at the Sept. 4 City Council meeting. Antuna presented a proclamation honoring Marsh for his 12-plus years of service with the Seguin Volunteer Fire Department and as Executive Director of the Guadalupe County Children’s Advocacy Center. Marsh could not attend the council meeting and Williams accepted the proclamation for him. “Paul Marsh has served Guadalupe County and region with passion and a humble heart,” Antuna said. “As a member of the Guadalupe County Children’s Advocacy Center board, I have witnessed first hand Paul’s dedication and compassion. Even though, the county will lose a great advocate for children, he has left behind a great organization with a

board dedicated to help those who are the most vulnerable. “The City of Schertz along with others in the county have definitely benefited from his service. I want to wish Paul the very best in his future endeavors and I know his return to Colorado will be a blessing to him and his family,” the mayor pro tem said. The proclamation states that Lt. Marsh has been an ideal volunteer for the Fire Department and that he and the Advocacy Center staff have interviewed more than 2,500 children about primarily sexual and physical abuse since 2004. The proclamation also wishes Marsh, his wife Rebecca and their children, Conner and Kelly, good luck on a new adventure in Loveland, Colorado.

It’s once again that time of the year where ghost, ghouls and goblins will be out and about enjoying Halloween trick-or-treating. Parents are asked to spend a few minutes explaining some guidelines for children to follow so that they can enjoy a safe and happy Halloween. 1. Help your child find or make a costume that will be safe and fireproof and not obscure the child’s vision. Children should also carry a flashlight. 2. Ensure that any props the child might be carrying do not have any sharp edges or points. 3 Teach the child basic safety tips, such as do not enter the home of a stranger or accept rides/get into a vehicle of a stranger. An adult or older sibling should always accompany children, especially younger children. 4. Plan a set route, and ensure that your child knows to follow that route and not to cut through alleys, empty lots or fields. 5. Instruct your child to not eat any treat until it has been checked out by a parent. 6. If possible, parents and children should walk in a group and have a parent carry a flashlight. 7. If your child is older and going trick-ortreating on their own, make sure you know their route and the location of any parties they may attend. Set a time at which the child should be home. 8. Teach your child that tricks may not be so funny and may cause damage to others’ property.

Annual Fall Clean Up October 8-23 Once again Schertz residents have the opportunity to Help Keep Schertz Clean! This year’s annual fall clean up is October 8-23. During the two-week clean up, Bexar Waste will pick up household waste not covered under normal collection service; such as lumber and general trash as well as major appliances and furniture for a fee. Call Bexar Waste at (210) 5665454 for more information. Schertz Public Works provides yearround curbside chipping service for brush and tree limbs on Fridays for a fee of $25 per half hour. To make an appointment for brush and tree chipping service call (210) 619-1800.

Seidenberger Saluted for Community Leadership Phil Seidenberger (center) holds a City of Schertz proclamation signed by Mayor Pro Tem George Antuna Jr. (right) saluting the CMC Steel Texas Director on his retirement. Looking on is Schertz City Manager John Kessel.

great career opportunities for many employees just like Phil,” Antuna said.

Complete details on the Annual Fall Clean Up are available at Schertz.com At the Aug. 28 City Council meeting, Antuna signed the proclamation honoring the CMC Steel Texas Director of Mill Operations as he retires after 42 years of service to his company and decades of the leadership to this community.

“Phil is the epitome of a company man working his way from the front lines to senior management and all along raising a beautiful family and serving his community. We will miss Phil as the face of CMC Steel Seguin, and we wish him the very best in his retirement endeavors. I know he will now be able to enjoy his free time with grandkids, his wife and travel,” the mayor pro tem said.

“Phil has been a true servant in every possible way for our community and the State of Texas. His service at CMC Steel and their many contributions have made a difference. CMC Steel has been employing Guadalupe County residents and others throughout the region for decades, which in turn has led to

Seidenberger started with CMC Steel in a part-time position in 1970 and rose through the ranks to run CMC Steel Texas. Phil and his wife Nancy look forward to spending more time with their daughter, Bree and son-in-law, Todd Vickers, and three grandchildren, Klein and twins Blaine and Bryce.

OCTOBER 2012 SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM

November Election Information Voters will go to the polls November 6, 2012, or during the early voting period of October 22 through November 2, to fill the unexpired term of MAYOR, vacated by the passing of Mayor Hal Baldwin in April, and to consider FIVE AMENDMENTS TO THE CITY CHARTER. The ballot for Mayor will contain three names. The order the candidates are listed on the ballot was determined by a drawing. MAYOR MICHAEL R. CARPENTER STEVE WHITE CEDRIC EDWARDS _____________________________ Voters will also be asked to consider five charter amendments. The ballot will state each proposed amendment followed by a place for the voter to vote “Yes” or “No”. Each amendment is set forth below followed by an explanation of what is being asked of voters. CHARTER AMENDMENT NO. 1 “Shall the second paragraph of Section 4.05 of the existing City Charter relating to the Mayor ProTem be amended to read as follows?” 48

“The Mayor Pro-Tem shall be a Councilmember appointed by the City Council for a term and pursuant to procedures established by the City Council from time to time. The Mayor Pro-Tem shall act as Mayor during the absence or disability of the Mayor and in this capacity shall have the rights conferred upon the Mayor. While acting as Mayor, the Mayor Pro-Tem may vote on any matter before the City Council.” Charter Proposition No. 1 “Shall the City be authorized to amend the City Charter as provided in Amendment No. 1?” Yes ______ No ______ _____________________________ CHARTER AMENDMENT NO. 2 “Shall Sections 4.09(e)(1) and 11.02 of the existing City Charter be amended to delete the requirement of publishing an entire franchise ordinance in a newspaper as a

SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM OCTOBER 2012

requirement for such ordinance to be effective but requiring that the entire franchise ordinance be placed on the City’s website for at least one week prior to final adoption of the franchise ordinance?” Charter Proposition No. 2 “Shall the City be authorized to amend the City Charter as provided in Amendment No. 2?” Yes ______ No ______ _____________________________ CHARTER AMENDMENT NO. 3 “Shall Section 6.07(a) of the existing City Charter relating to the Office of Taxation be amended to read as follows?” “(a) Assessor-Collector. The City Manager shall appoint, and may remove, the City’s Assessor-Collector of taxes. The City Council may, in the interest of economy and efficiency and on the recommendation of the City Manager, authorize the City Manager to contract

NOVEMBER 6, 2012 with an individual or another political subdivision as Assessor-Collector to handle the assessment and/or collection of taxes, and no separate Assessor-Collector need be appointed in such case. The Assessor-Collector shall give a surety bond for the faithful performance of his or her duties including compliance with all controlling provisions of the State law bearing upon the functions of his or her office in a sum which shall be fixed by the City Council, but in no event shall the amount be less than twenty thousand dollars, the cost to be borne by the City; provided, if the Assessor-Collector is an officer of another political subdivision providing services to the City by contract and if the City Council determines that the Assessor-Collector’s existing surety bond sufficiently protects the City, no further surety bond shall be required.” CHARTER PROPOSITION NO. 3 “Shall the City be authorized to amend the City Charter as provided in Amendment No. 3?” Yes ______ No ______ _____________________________ CHARTER AMENDMENT NO. 4 “Shall Section 6.07(e) of the existing City Charter relating to the City Council’s authority to forgive current or delinquent penalties and interest be amended to read as follows?” “(e) Tax Remissions, Discounts and Compromises. Neither the City Manager nor the City Council shall have the right to forgive any current or delinquent taxes or penalty and

interest related to taxation except in cases of error or otherwise as permitted by State law.”

on each even-numbered year thereafter.”

Charter Proposition No. 4 “Shall the City be authorized to amend the City Charter as provided in Amendment No. 4?” Yes ______ No ______ _____________________________

Charter Proposition No. 5 “Shall the City be authorized to amend the City Charter as provided in Amendment No. 5 ?” Yes ______ No ______

CHARTER AMENDMENT NO. 5 “Shall Section 9.01(a) of the existing City Charter relating to regular election dates be amended to change the City’s regular election date from May to November and with transition provisions to read as follows.”

“(a) Regular Elections. The regular City election shall be held on the uniform election date in November in each calendar year commencing in 2013 or as otherwise required by applicable State laws. If this provision is approved by the voters in the election of November 6, 2012, the terms of all members of the City Council serving following such approval shall end, and their successors’ two-year terms shall commence, on the following dates: for Councilmembers Place 3, Place 4, and Place 5 – on the regular election date in November 2013 and as to their successors commencing on each odd-numbered year thereafter; and for Mayor and Councilmembers Place 1 and Place 2 – on the regular election date in November 2014 and as to their successors commencing

OCTOBER 2012 SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM

October 2012 Tuesday, 2

City Council, 6:00 PM Council Chambers

Thursday, 4

CITY CALENDARZ

Transportation Safety Advisory Commission 5:30 PM Council Chambers

Monday,8

Columbus Day City Holiday, Offices Closed

Tuesday, 9

City Council 6:00 PM Council Chambers

Wednesday, 10

Planning & Zoning 6:00 PM - Council Chambers

Tuesday, 16

City Council 6:00 PM—Council Chambers

Monday, 22

Parks & Recreation Advisory Board 5:30 PM – Bob Andrews Room Board of Adjustments 6:00 PM – Council Chambers

Tuesday, 23

City Council 6:00 PM-Council Chambers

Fire Prevention Week is October 7-13 By Fire Chief David Covington October brings fall colors, cooling temperatures, ghosts and goblins. But it also brings us a message of prevention. The week in which October 9 falls is the time we celebrate Fire Prevention Week across the nation. It started in 1922 and was meant to commemorate one of the most notorious fires in our history, the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. Rumor has it the fire started with the kick of Mrs. O’Leary’s cow, knocking over a lantern while being milked. Some 250 people died and 100,000 were left homeless in a fire that burned 17,400 buildings, which is about the size of Schertz. While the guilt of the cow is disputed to this day, there is no argument with the fact that there were actually two great fires that day. Besides the Great Chicago Fire, a wildland fire called the Peshtigo Fire erupted in Northeast Wisconsin. Still the largest wildland fire in American history, the Peshtigo Fire devoured 16 towns and 1.2 million acres and killed 1,152 people. Each October reminds us of how fragile we are when it comes to fire, and each year, Schertz Fire Rescue, like so many other fire departments across the country, will gear up for Fire Prevention Week by giving public talks and visiting schoolchildren to get the message out. This year the message is: “It’s Fire Prevention Week. Protect your family from fire.” The Schertz Fire Department will focus on home fire safety and protecting families. More information is available by going to nfpa.org and using the search words “Fire Prevention 2012.”

Economic Development Corporation 6:00 PM - Council Chambers

The week begins October 7 and continues through October 13. Our firefighters will be visiting elementary and intermediate school and daycare in Schertz Fire Department’s response area. As always, officials will be bringing instruction materials, toys and reminders of how to avoid fires in the home and to stay safe if a fire does occur. Officials also visit with as many neighborhood organizations as possible during National Night Out, which takes place on October 2.

***Meeting locations may change, please visit the calendar at www.schertz.com for confirmation.***

For more information on Fire Prevention Week go to www.fpw.org

Wednesday, 24

Planning & Zoning 6:00 PM - Council Chambers

Thursday, 25

OFFICIAL FINE PRINT Subscriptions to Schertz Magazine are free for each Schertz household. Subscriptions for residents and businesses outside the City of Schertz are $19.95 annually. Call 210-619-1630.

#info City of Schertz Elected Officials Mayor Pro Tem:

George Antuna, Jr.

Council Members:

(210) 467-7914

Michael Carpenter Cedric Edwards, Sr. Jim Fowler David Scagliola

(210) 619-1045 (210) 566-4540 (210) 658-1442 (830) 606-1130

City of Schertz Animal Control Business/Utilities City Manager City Secretary Civic Center Customer Care/311

(210) 619-1000 (210) 619-1550 (210) 619-1100 (210) 619-1000 (210) 619-1030 (210) 619-1600 (210) 619-1000

City Departments:

City Departments: (cont’d) Economic Development (210) 619-1070 EMS (non-emergency) (210) 619-1400 Fire (non-emergency) (210) 619-1300 Human Resources (210) 619-1150 Information Technology (210) 619-1180 Inspections (210) 619-1750 Marshal Services (210) 619-1650 Municipal Court (210) 619-1500 Parks & Recreation (210) 619-1850 Planning & Zoning (210) 619-1780 Police (non-emergency) (210) 619-1200 Public Affairs (210) 619-1630 Public Library (210) 619-1700 Public Works (210) 619-1800 Records (210) 619-1030 Website schertz.com

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Send queries about articles or photographs to Schertz Magazine at 1400 Schertz Parkway, Schertz, Texas 78154. For advertising information: Schertz Magazine, 1400 Schertz Parkway, Schertz, Texas 78154; call (210) 619-1630; Fax (210) 619-1619; email sales@schertz.com. NEWS POLICY Schertz Magazine encourages submission of news and event announcement items. News and event announcements must include contact name and contact phone number. All news and event items must be for activities that occur inside the Schertz city limits. Publication cannot be guaranteed. If you would like to submit an item to Schertz Tales, email us at events@schertz.com or call us at (210) 6191630. 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 Tales, whether draft or final is sole property of the City of Schertz and cannot be reproduced or distributed in any way, whether in print or electronically, without the express permission and written consent of the City of Schertz.

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