April 2023

SCHERTZ SCHERTZ

CITY COUNCIL

Ralph Gutierrez Mayor

Mark Davis Councilmember

Michelle Watson Councilmember

Jill Whittaker Councilmember

Michael Dahle Councilmember

David Scagliola Councilmember

Allison Heyward Councilmember

Tim Brown Councilmember

EXECUTIVE TEAM

Steve Williams City Manager

Brian James Deputy City Manager

Sarah Gonzalez Assistant City Manager

Greg Rodgers Fire Chief

James Lowery Police Chief

Jason Mabbitt EMS Director

EDITORIAL TEAM

Linda Klepper Public Affairs Director

Devan Christensen Communications Manager

Caanon Gibbons Marketing & Communications Specialist

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Devan Christensen, Caanon Gibbons, Linda Klepper, Cassie Paddock, Stacey Lovett, Anna Kraft, Lizzi Bertoia, Kira Villarreal, Jaime Cline, Melissa Rodriguez, Kim Gonzalez, Roz Wise, Miguel Vazquez, Barbara Hall

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Devan Christensen, Caanon Gibbons, Linda Klepper, Stacey Lovett, Domingo

J Muñoz Jr./Muñillar Photography, Leah

Vidal Carrosquilla

NEWS POLICY

Schertz Magazine encourages submission of news and event announcement items.

Publication is not guaranteed. If you would like to submit an item to Schertz Magazine, email magazine@schertz.com or call (210) 619-1600.

The appearance of advertising in this publication does not constitute endorsement by the City of Schertz. 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. Any publication of Schertz Magazine is sole property of the City of Schertz and cannot be reproduced or distributed in any way without the permission and written consent of the City of Schertz.

The award-winning Schertz Public Library is under the direction of our fantastic Librarians including Library Director Melissa Uhlhorn, Adult Services Librarian Lizzi Bertoia, Youth Services Librarian April Toman, and Virtual Services Librarian Stephanie Barbosa.

OVERALL WINNERS

Male Timothy Lawson

Female Shannon Quinn

For a full list of winners go to Schertz.com/KickCancer

PEPRALLY AND 5KRUN

RALLYING IN SUPPORT OF CANCER RESEARCH

The 15th year of the Kick Cancer Pep Rally & 5k Run, formerly the Wilenchik Walk for Life, brought an unprecedented number of participants this year in support of cancer research programs at UT Health San Antonio MD Anderson Cancer Center.

The event began in 2009 in honor of the former Schertz city councilmember, Tony Wilenchik, who battled a rare form of stage-4 Leiomyosarcoma cancer. His steadfast fight against the disease moved the city to continue this annual fundraising event benefitting cancer research programs, leading to over $203,000 of total donations towards the cause.

This year brought 560 registered participants for the 5k and 74 registrants for the 1k which looped around Pickrell Park. SCUCISD rallied an enormous support with 435 of the registrants being affiliated with the district and the Paschal Patriots team bringing out the largest group with 136 runners!

The Steele Drumline, Clemens Cheer, and Chrissy Rae’s Dance Academy rallied the race energy while Orange Theory led a group warm up before the run. H-E-B served as the event’s major sponsor, bringing along both the race snacks and hydration and H-E-Buddy to share the fun. Additional sponsors for the official race t-shirts included Schertz Bank & Trust, SAMCO Capital, GVEC, Floor Coverings International, Schertz Cibolo Emergency Clinic, Kiddie Academy, Nathan Obregon with State Farm, ReMax Corridor, iCode, and QC Kinetix.

Over $10,000 was raised at this year’s event for the UT Health San Antonio MD Anderson Cancer Center to aid in their research and it could not have been done without the unwavering support of the community members and sponsors – thank you!

HEADLINES CITY

Schertz EMS Launches New Yellow Dot Program

Schertz EMS is launching a new initiative that assists in the "golden hour" of emergency care following a traffic crash when they may not be able to communicate their needs themselves. Placing a Yellow Dot decal in your vehicle's rear window alerts first responders to check your glove compartment for vital information to ensure you receive the medical attention you need. The Yellow Dot Program is a free service to our community that allows First Responder's to have a detailed medical history on those patients that are special needs and/or high acuity.

Schertz Public Library Receives Achievement of Library Excellence Award

The Schertz Public Library has received the 2022 Achievement of Library Excellence Award from the Texas Municipal Library Directors Association (TMLDA), an affiliate of the Texas Municipal League.

To successfully receive the Achievement of Library Excellence Award, the library must exhibit excellence by providing services to underserved and special populations; marketing in innovative ways; pursuing collaborative efforts; continually enhancing its services; supporting literacy, digital inclusion, and workforce development; providing cultural, topical, and educational programming; and comprehensively training its staff.

“The Achievement of Library Excellence Award highlights the many non-traditional ways libraries add value to their communities,” says Library Director Melissa Uhlhorn. “So many people have the perception

that libraries are only about books or that they aren’t relevant to their personal lives, but invariably when customers find out about one or another of our services, they say, “I had no idea the library offered this!”

Of the 552 public libraries in Texas, only 73 received this award in 2022. With this honor, the Schertz Public Library is now in the top 15% of all public libraries in the state.

“The TMLDA Achievement of Excellence Award is a true testament to the hard work and dedication of every library employee,” comments Adult Services Librarian Lizzi Bertoia. “This is our fifth year in a row receiving this recognition and each year it is a reminder of why I am passionate about the work I do.

I am so proud of the Schertz Public Library staff, as they work hard each day to bring customer focused service and innovative programming to our community.”

The program started in 2002 in Connecticut and began to grow state by state. By May 2011, numerous cities and counties in at least 8 states had adopted the program. Some places not only used the Yellow Dot, but have also added placing the yellow dots on patients homes as well.

Participating in the Yellow Dot Program could help family and loved ones find out vital information sooner. The program is open to people of all ages with different medical conditions.

For more information contact MIH Paramedic Amy Anderson at (210) 619-1430 or stop by the EMS Office located at 1400 Schertz Parkway, Bldg. 7.

Employees Honored for Their Service

We are excited to recognize two longtime city employees who have recently reached a milestone 20 years of service in their city careers.

Allison Gorzell

Allison Gorzell started her career with the City of Schertz in November 2002 as a Billing Supervisor for Schertz EMS. Allison now holds the position of Office Manager with a staff of 3 Billing Specialists. This is her 25th year in ambulance billing.

Allison was born in Houston, Texas and graduated from Thomas Jefferson and attended St. Mary’s University before changing direction to become a wife and mother. She attended and passed the Schertz EMT Academy and is a Certified Ambulance Coder and Certified Privacy Officer. She has been married to her husband Richard Gorzell for 16 years and they

have three children: Royal, Shyann, and Hailey. Her son Royal, his wife and her grandbaby Kaia live in Puerto Rico, her daughter Shyann and her spouse are in the Army deployed overseas, and her daughter Hailey is an A honor roll student at Samuel Clemens. For eleven years Allison has co-led her daughter Hailey’s girl scout troop and has been able to do horseback riding and iFly with the troop which got her out of her comfort zone. She likes to spend time with her family on their RV trips, and according to her family she makes the best cup of tea.

Congratulations to Allison on her many accomplishments during her career and we are grateful for her dedicated service to our community!

Karen Bowerman

Karen Bowerman started part-time at the library in November 2002

working evenings and weekends. She learned about the job when taking her youngest daughter to storytime every week. She began working full-time in April 2003. Some of Karen’s duties include staffing various service desks assisting in managing the day-to-day activities of the library, maintaining the library’s facilities, and performing a variety of administrative and technical functions in support of Schertz Public Library operations. She works daily with the general public providing a variety of services: checking items in/out, assisting with computers/printing, and helping with resumes/ job applications. Karen also provides tech help, answers research and reference questions, and repairs and processes library materials. Along with a coworker, she manages interlibrary loans.

Karen was born in Austin, Texas and moved around a lot growing up being in a military family. She graduated high school in upstate New York. Karen celebrated her 40th anniversary with her husband Jeff in 2022. They have 4 kids: stepdaughter, Mandi, 2 sons, Byron and Andrew (both software engineers), and youngest daughter Rachel, a recent graduate of Texas A&M. She is a grandma of 5; the newest grandbaby born in November 2022. Karen loves to read, enjoys cooking and baking, and listening to true crime podcasts. She is also a dog lover and enjoys traveling.

Congratulations to Karen on her many accomplishments during her career and we are grateful for her dedicated service to our community!

THE CITY OF SCHERTZ IS PROUD OF OUR EMPLOYEES, AND WE ARE INCREDIBLY THANKFUL FOR THEIR GREAT SERVICE AND DEDICATION TO OUR COMMUNITY.

Allison Gorzell

Karen Bowerman

HEADLINES CITY

Hal Baldwin Scholarship Applications Open

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 this city.

As Schertz residents, beginning in the 1960s, Mayor Baldwin and his 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 2023 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 2-4-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 Office, Bldg. No. 2, 1400 Schertz Parkway

■ City Hall, Bldg. No. 1, 1400 Schertz Parkway

■ Civic Center Office, Bldg. No. 5, 1400 Schertz Parkway

■ Schertz Public Library, 798 Schertz Parkway

Completed applications must be received in the City Manager’s Office (Bldg. No. 2) by 5 p.m. Friday, April 28. Incomplete applications will not be accepted.

Schertz to Celebrate National Preservation Month

Every year in May, local preservation groups, state historical societies, and business and civic organizations across the country celebrate Preservation Month through events that promote historic places and heritage tourism, and that demonstrate the social and economic benefits of historic preservation. Preservation Month began as National Preservation Week in 1973. In 2005, the National Trust extended the celebration to the entire month of May and declared it Preservation Month to provide an even greater opportunity to celebrate the diverse and unique heritage of our country’s cities and states.

On Tuesday, May 2, the Schertz City Council will proclaim the observance of National Preservation Month by highlighting one of its recently designated historical cemeteries, the Schertz-Cibolo Cemetery. The City's Historical Preservation Committee and the Cemetery's Association will host a cemetery tour, along with music, a display of arrowheads, and information on local history. The tour will take place on Saturday, May 6 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the cemetery located on Bubbling Springs Road.

More information about the cemetery can be found at sccemetery.com.

Schertz Utility Billing Now Offering Optional Irrigation Meters

Schertz Utility Billing is now offering residents the opportunity to purchase a separate meter to specifically monitor irrigation consumption. This optional additional meter will separate irrigation usage from home water usage. Using this information, the City will be able to accurately assess sewer charges rather than estimating sewer charges through winter averaging. A plumbing/irrigation building permit is required for an irrigation deduct meter installation. For those that wish to water in the winter, this program could pay for itself in less than 1 year.

Interested residents should first contact a licensed plumber that is registered with the State of Texas, and the plumber will file and complete permitting requirements with the City. Residents will also need to fill out the residential application and return it to the Utility Billing Office for their records and to update the account. Both the meter costs of $315.90 and the plumbing cost will be the responsibility of the resident.

MONTHLY PROCLAMATIONS

DURING FEBRUARY AND MARCH, WE CELEBRATED CITY EMPLOYEES AND SEVERAL DIFFERENT DEPARTMENTS WITH SPECIAL RECOGNITIONS.

A special thanks goes out to our Engineering, Purchasing, and 311 departments for all their hard work and dedication to our community!

■ Engineers Week: February 19 – 25

■ National Procurement Month

■ Career and Technology Education Month - March

■ National Employee Appreciation Day: March 2

■ National 311 Day: March 11

JOIN US IN CELEBRATING APRIL NATIONAL RECOGNITIONS!

■ Month of the Military Child: We encourage residents to show the military children and youth in the area that they appreciate their sacrifices and contributions by wearing purple for military children on Friday, April 21.

■ Child Abuse Prevention and Awareness Month

■ Sexual Assault Prevention and Awareness Month

■ Public Safety Telecommunications Week: April 9 - 15

■ Animal Care and Control Appreciation Week: April 9 – 15

■ National Library Week: April 23 – 29

■ Administrative Professionals Appreciation Week: April 23 – 29

■ National Crime Victim’s Rights Week: April 23 – 29

For notice of upcoming and past proclamations at City Council Meetings go to Schertz.com/ Agendas and follow the City of Schertz on social media.

Child Abuse, Sexual Assault & Crime Victim Rights Awareness

April is recognized as Child Abuse Prevention and Awareness Month and Sexual Assault Prevention and Awareness Month, and April 23 – 29 is National Crime Victim’s Rights Week. A proclamation for these designations will be given at the April 4th Schertz City Council Meeting. Follow the City on social media for updates on the upcoming proclamations. We encourage you to join us and participate in the many awareness efforts throughout the month.

To help bring awareness and prevent child abuse, the Schertz Police Department partnered with the Guadalupe County Children’s Advocacy Center (GCCAC) for their annual county-wide pinwheel displays recognizing the 849 children served at the GCCAC in 2022 as well as their fundraising campaign, “Champions for Courageous Children.” You can also join them by texting GCCAC to 44-321 for more information or going to “Events” at gccac.net.

Friday, April 7th, is the official Go Blue Day for Texas. Thousands of Texans will wear blue, the official prevention color, to show their support for ending child abuse. To raise awareness of rape and sexual assault, Wednesday, April 26th, is Denim Day. Millions worldwide wear jeans with a purpose, to support survivors, educate themselves, and ask others about all forms of sexual violence. We encourage you to wear your blue on April 7 and denim on April 26, and we ask that you encourage your friends, family, and colleagues to do the same!

For more information on Child Abuse Prevention and Awareness, go to childwelfare. gov. For more information on Sexual Assault Prevention and Awareness Month, go to nsvrc. org, and for more information on National Crime Victim’s Rights Week, go to ovc.ncjrs.gov.

ROAD PROJECT UPDATES

SCHERTZ CONTINUES TO WORK ON ROADWAY IMPROVEMENTS THROUGHOUT THE COMMUNITY. BELOW YOU CAN FIND UPDATES ON VARIOUS PROJECTS CURRENTLY UNDERWAY.

For more information and project updates go to Schertz.com/capitalimprovement.

Tri-County Parkway Reconstruction

The Tri-County Parkway

Reconstruction Project began in April 2022 and is expected to be completed this month. This project reconstructed Tri-County Parkway from Corridor Parkway to FM 3009 and Lookout Road from Tri-County Parkway to Doerr Lane, and includes upsizing and replacing existing sewer lines with 18-inch sewer lines. This $4.9 million project was a joint effort between the City of Schertz and the Schertz Economic Development Corporation with Consulting Engineer Halff Associates and Contractor Sterling.

Lookout Road Reconstruction and Signalization

The City of Schertz is planning two projects for Lookout Road between Schertz Parkway and Doerr Lane. One project includes the installation of a new traffic signal at the

Lookout Road and Schertz Parkway intersection. This project is currently being bid, however, due to long lead times for the traffic signal equipment, construction of the new signal is not expected to start until Summer 2023. This project is being funded by the Schertz Economic Development Corporation (EDC) and the City of Selma.

The second project on Lookout Road includes replacement of the sanitary sewer line and reconstruction of the roadway. This work will build off of the work done on Tri-County Parkway. This project is currently in design and construction is not expected to start until Summer 2023. Funding for this project was also provided by the Schertz EDC. The City will be reaching out to the businesses in the area to keep them informed about the project and to get feedback on how best to phase construction for the project.

Stay Up-To-Date on Area TxDOT Road Projects

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) currently has several major roadway projects going on in our area, so here are some resources for you to stay up-to-date!

I-35 NEX CENTRAL PROJECT

Sign up to be notified of important I-35 Northeast Expansion (NEX) Central project updates and construction impacts. Follow @I35NEXCentral the official Facebook page for construction updates & news for the I-35 NEX Central Project in San Antonio, TX. If you have any questions, contact the I-35 NEX team at i35nexcentral@txdot.gov or call (726) 800-4809.

FM 1103 IMPROVEMENT PROJECT FROM I-35 TO RODEO WAY

Sign up for the FM 1103 Construction Newsletter to have updates sent to your inbox or visit TxDOT.gov and search “FM 1103” to learn more.

For additional questions or comments, contact the project team at (210) 615-5932. Follow @ TxDOTSanAntonioTX on Facebook or subscribe to the "Go Ahead" Blog at txdotsanantonio.blogspot. com for more TxDOT updates.

Sarah Gonzalez

Promoted to Assistant City Manager

SCHERTZ ASSISTANT CITY MANAGER SARAH GONZALEZ HAS JUST STARTED IN HER NEW ROLE THIS PAST JANUARY, BUT SHE’S ALREADY A FAMILIAR FACE IN THE CITY MANAGER’S OFFICE.

By KIRA VILLARREAL

Gonzalez has been with the city for nearly 15 years, gradually working her way up to her current position, in which she’ll oversee the operations of five city departments. She is now the City’s first female Assistant City Manager. Although Gonzalez hadn’t always planned to pursue a career in public service, it has turned out to be an ideal fit, and one that has allowed her to pursue her passion for serving others.

Originally from Georgetown, Texas, Gonzalez attended Texas A&M University, graduating summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications and a minor in Business Administration. She spent the early part of her career working in the media and financial services industries before relocating to New Braunfels with her husband and taking a job with the City of Schertz Public Works Department. She moved to the City Manager’s Office, where she was later promoted to Assistant to the City Manager, a role which she held for six years, and which gave her the

opportunity to oversee two city departments.

In her new position, Gonzalez will be responsible for leading five departments. These include the Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Services, as well as Finance, Library, Public Affairs, and Human Resources. She’ll develop and direct the implementation of goals, policies, procedures, and work standards for those departments, assist

with budget development, and work closely with the City Manager, City Council, and citizen groups to develop programs and implement projects.

According to City Manager Steve Williams, Gonzalez is uniquely qualified for this role. “I believe that Sarah is an excellent fit as Assistant City Manager,” he said. Not only does she bring a wealth of experience and institutional knowledge to the position, but she’s also well-liked and respected

throughout the organization and the community. I’m excited to see what the future holds for her and our team.”

Although she’s only been in her new role for a few months, Gonzalez says the transition has gone well, and she gives much of that credit to the outstanding team she works with. So far, she’s really enjoying the job, and says she never doubted that it would be a rewarding and fulfilling role.

“My professional passion is helping others, so public service is a career field that came naturally to me,” she said. “Growing up, I was always involved in service organizations, and I really enjoy the feeling that comes from giving back and serving others.”

Among her immediate goals as the new Assistant City Manager, Gonzalez wants to get familiar with the processes and procedures of the departments that are now reporting to her. She says that she loves to problem solve and work collaboratively across departments to find ways to do things more effectively

and efficiently. Another of her priorities will be to continue to grow the Schertz Emerging Leaders Program. Currently in its second year, the program is the City’s first employee leadership development initiative, and a program that she helped develop.

Among the biggest challenges that she’ll face, Gonzalez cites the rapid growth and development of the city and the issues that come along with that growth, but she’s confident in her team and their ability to address the most pressing needs of the community.

“We have a great team, and we will continue to work together to address these challenges and find workable solutions while still being good stewards of our taxpayers’ dollars,” she said.

On a personal note, Gonzalez is married to her college sweetheart, Ismael, and the couple has two daughters, ages 11 and 8. In her free time, she enjoys running and has completed a marathon and several

half-marathons. She also enjoys reading, hiking, and traveling with her family.

Overall, Gonzalez is thrilled to be taking the next step in her public service career in the same city where it all started. “I’ve been very fortunate to be able to start a job nearly 15 years ago and turn it into a career,” she said. “The support that I have received from colleagues and the community has been wonderful and has solidified that this decision was a good one. I’m excited to be a part of it and see where we go next.”

The support that I have received from colleagues and the community has been wonderful and has solidified that this decision was a good one.

There’s More to the Story

NATIONAL LIBRARY WEEK IS AN ANNUAL CELEBRATION THAT HIGHLIGHTS THE VALUABLE ROLE LIBRARIES, LIBRARIANS, AND LIBRARY STAFF PLAY IN CHANGING LIVES, AS WELL AS HIGHLIGHTS LIBRARY USE AND SUPPORT.

By JAIME CLINE

The theme for National Library Week 2023 is “There’s More to the Story,” showcasing the fact that in addition to the many books in library collections, libraries offer so much more through programs and services to their communities.

“This theme really shines a light on all of the things that libraries provide for their communities now.

Libraries have changed a lot in the last few decades — we simply aren’t just a place to check out books. We provide services that many people in our community don't know about,” shares Library Director Melissa Uhlhorn.

“Our focus during this year’s National Library Week is to share examples of the technology-based resources we offer to members of the community. We will be spotlighting four during the week,” she explains.

The four-part spotlight series consists of CreativeBug, an online crafts service that was started during the pandemic. The program allows creative types an outlet to participate in crafting activities virtually. The next program that will be highlighted is the language learning program called Rocket Language. Participants can learn

virtually a foreign language — great for people who are traveling or going overseas and want to gain some insights before their trip. The third program that will be highlighted during National Library Week is the Library’s online tutoring program Brainfuse. This online tutoring program allows users to connect to a live tutor for any subject at any level. These subject matter experts provide free tutoring in things like English, Science, Reading, Computer Science, College Algebra, and World History starting from kindergarten through university level studies. The last program of the week will be Weiss Financial Ratings, an online program that is a one stop shop for learning about stocks, bonds, insurance, banking, investments, Medigap programs, and other financial services.

But there’s more! “Our library programs bring the community together — to learn, to be entertained, and to be connected to each other with our summer and winter reading programs, reading challenges, story times, crafting classes, in-person tutoring, and meditation and healthy living programs. We provide free access to internet and mobile hotspots, support for businesses like printing, remote printing, faxing, and notary services,

and space for job seekers to conduct interviews and work on their resumes. We have a fully trained staff who can help with all of the Microsoft Office Suite programs — they can also help set up iPads and cell phones, download pictures, and transfer documents too,” Uhlhorn shares.

“Of course, books are definitely our #1 resource or product. But we have the ability to offer them in so many different formats now—audio book, eBook, large print, or traditional print. We offer streaming video, online newspapers, multiple research databases, picture books and early readers, magazines, young adult fiction, Spanish titles, and we will soon have the ability for our customers to check out board games in April,” Uhlhorn explains.

“We are working on creating Experience Kits that we hope to launch in the next few months as well. These kits will hold everything you need to “try” a new hobby — for example, a cookbook, cake mix, sprinkles and cupcake liners to make cupcakes. Or knitting needles, yarn, a pattern, and a book on how to learn how to knit. These interactive boxes are a great way to experiment and try out a new

hobby — or multiple new hobbies to see what sparks your interest. And these will be provided for free for our community — all you need is your library card,” says Uhlhorn.

The library also offers plenty of volunteer opportunities for adults and teens.

“Our volunteers not only help with items within the library like shelving and sorting the incoming books, but they also help prepare materials for our in-person programs like our summer and winter reading programs. They manage our bookstore called “Read Before Bookstore” — accepting the donations, cleaning the books, pricing, and running the store. All of the funds they raise in the bookstore are used for programming and materials,” explains Uhlhorn.

Interested in volunteering at the library? The Schertz Library is now looking for volunteers for its teen and adult program.

Our focus during this year’s National Library Week is to share examples of the technology-based resources that we offer to members of the community.

SCAN TO LEARN MORE ABOUT VOLUNTEERING AT THE LIBRARY

HAPPENING THIS MONTH in Schertz

PROGRAMS AND ACTIVITIES

Lego Lab (Ages 5+)

Schertz Area Genealogists Meeting

Pickleball Play

APR.

1 @ 10:15 – 11:15 a.m.

GAME ON!

Third Saturday of the month, 11 a.m.12:30 p.m., Library Program Room Did you know board games teach critical thinking, strategic skills, offer social opportunities for participants, keep minds sharp and are just plain fun? Learn a new game or play an old favorite. Our goal is to connect families, teach social skills, learn problem solving skills, and to have fun. A parent or guardian is required to participate with child(ren).

NEXT MONTH IN SCHERTZ...

RECURRING LIBRARY PROGRAMS

Library Week Tech Classes

23 – Apr. 27 @12:30 p.m. (Check online for details)

Walk-in Tech Help Select Mondays, Apr. 3 & 17 @ 12:30 p.m.; Select Wednesdays, Apr. 12 & 26 @ 6:30 p.m.

S.P.A.R.K. Family Workshop

Tuesdays

Mondays @ 6 – 8 p.m.

Library Quilt Bee Second and Fourth Tuesday and third Saturday (Time varies, check online)

Toddler Storytime (Ages 20 months – 3 yrs.)

Preschool Storytime (Ages 3 – 6 yrs.)

Teen Tuesdays (Ages 13 – 18 yrs.)

Tuesdays & Wednesdays @ 10:15 –10:45 a.m.; Thursdays @ 11 – 11:30 a.m.

Tuesdays & Wednesdays, @ 11 – 11:45 a.m.

Tuesdays @ 4:30 – 6:30 p.m.

Discovery! (Ages 6 – 9 yrs.) Wednesdays @ 4 – 4:45 p.m.

Baby & Me Storytime (Ages Birth – 24 months)

Free Reading Tutoring (K-12 students)

Thursdays @ 10:15 – 10:45 a.m.

Thursdays @ 4 p.m. –

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MUSIC AND MOVIES IN THE PARK

May 5, Pickrell Park

The Music and Movies in the Park Series is back for 2023 and we are kicking it off with a special Cinco De Mayo celebration!

Ed-Zoo-Cation

Join us for the first Ed-Zoo-Cation event of the year coming up on Saturday, April 22. San Antonio Zoo Center for Conservation and Research has selected Crescent Bend Nature Park as a harvesting location to help feed their Texas Horned Lizards. Learn about the Texas Horned Lizards, carpenter ants, the history of the animals, and their importance. If this program is not already cool enough, there is also an opportunity for appearances of live animals/lizards from the zoo! Meet at the first parking lot near the restroom building and trail head.

– May 21 and cornhole games will be played on Tuesday nights from 6 – 10 p.m. running April 18 – May 23. Get ready to have some FUN and meet some new friends! Register at Schertz.com/civicrec.

Come Walk With A Naturalist

We all know that connecting with nature is great for relaxing, but it also has a scientifically proven impact on our health and happiness, boosting emotions and relationships. That is why it is more important than ever to respect our natural spaces and teach people about conservation.

There are three main reasons why we conserve: To repair some of the damage done by humans and maintain the environment for future generations. To maintain species diversity for our benefit and that of wildlife. To provide opportunities for education and the enjoyment of the environment.

What better way to discover nature and learn about ways we can help conserve our resources than taking a leisurely stroll with one of our very own Master Naturalists at Crescent Bend Nature Park? Once a month the Guadalupe Master Naturalists host a walk-through of Crescent Bend Nature Park. Inspired by the interests and observations of those who attend, they expand one's knowledge on all types of nature from soil, plants, insects, mammals, and birds, talking about their dependence, interaction, and place in preserving the nature around us.

Pickleball Play

Last Call for Adult Social Leagues

Registration for Kickball and Cornhole officially closes on April 10, so lace up those tennis shoes and join us this spring! Kickball games will be played on Sunday nights from 6 – 10 p.m. running April 16

Have you seen the blue pickleball lines at the Large Pavilion at Pickrell Park? Have you wondered what they are or how to play? Now is your chance to register for a FREE lesson and basic overview of the rules and gameplay from certified instructors provided by the FilAm Pickleball Association. Lecture and skill practice is from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. on the first Wednesdays of April and May. Open play sessions will be held on the other Wednesdays in April and May. Registration is free but required. Walkons are welcome subject to availability. Dress to play, bring water, and be prepared for fun!

When asked about why he loves the Walk with a Naturalist program, Master Naturalist Mark de Kiewiet responded, “The questions from the public opens my mind. I love seeing the light come on when the (Nature) dots are connected for a participant”. People can read about nature and the importance of conservation online or in books, but to Mark’s point, “Facts don’t cut it. It is when a person thinks and asks questions that one can make an impression. That is how we are going to impact nature conservation.”

Connect with us on social media

CityofSchertz or cityofschertzparksandrecreation

Post a pic @SchertzParksandRec

Use #SchertzParksandRec

Free Reading Tutoring

Get a reading boost this spring with Free Reading Tutoring! Help your student become a proud, confident learner ready to finish the school year strong. We are offering free in-person reading tutoring from a certified teacher and reading specialist. Sign up for a 30-minute session, bring your reading schoolwork with you, and receive oneon-one instruction. The program is open to any K-12 students needing extra reading support. A parent or caregiver must remain in the library (though not with the reading pair) during the tutoring session. Library patron, Julie Forsberg is offering her time and expertise to our community. She is a certified teacher and reading specialist and has been teaching for 16 years. Registration is available on the library’s online calendar. Visit Schertz. com/youthcalendar.

National Library Week Tech Class Schedule

Date & Time Event

Sun., April 23 12:30-1:30 PM

Mon., April 24 12:30-1:30 PM

Celebrate National Library Week

National Library Week is held in April of each year, highlighting the valuable role libraries, librarians, and library workers play in transforming lives and strengthening our communities. This year’s theme, There’s More to the Story, is meant to spotlight not only the stories in books, but the many additional things libraries do and provide. Visit us April 2329 to celebrate the library and share in our library’s multi-faceted story. Follow the library on Facebook or Instagram and check the online library calendars for upcoming events and programs, and if you don’t have a card yet, you can begin the application process online at schertzlibrary.org!

Wed., April 26 12:30-1:30 PM

Thu., April 27 12:30-1:30 PM*

Creative Bug

Rocket Languages

Brainfuse

Weiss Financial Protect Your Piggy Bank

All meetings in Library Meeting Room 1 * Virtual option also available

NAMI Family & Friends Seminar

NAMI Guadalupe County will present a NAMI Family & Friends seminar on Saturday, April 29, 2023, 1-5 p.m., at the Schertz Public Library. This free program informs people who have loved ones with a mental health condition how to best support them. Registration is available now at namiguadalupecounty.org.

Senior Center Tech Help

Library staff will be at the Senior Center on the first Thursday and second Monday of every month from 10 - 11 a.m. to answer technology-related questions and to assist with devices, such as smart phones, tablets, laptops, and e-readers. This program is open to all members of the Schertz Senior Center. See calendar for more details.

Connect with us on social media

Facebook.com/SchertzLibrary

Instagram.com/SchertzPublicLibrary

Twitter.com/SchertzLibrary

JR. AND TEEN

POLICE ACADEMIES

JUNIOR POLICE ACADEMY | JUNE 12-16

ALPHA (9-10 YEARS OF AGE)

DEADLINE FOR APPLICATION: MAY 25

JUNIOR POLICE ACADEMY | JULY 24-28

BRAVO (11-12 YEARS OF AGE)

DEADLINE FOR APPLICATION: JUNE 30

TEEN POLICE ACADEMY | JUNE 19-23 (13-16 YEARS OF AGE)

DEADLINE FOR APPLICATION: MAY 25

CONTACT OFFICER KRAFT AT AKRAFT@SCHERTZ.COM OR (210) 619-1264

WHAT'S DEVELOPING IN SCHERTZ

Curious about what new businesses are now open or coming soon to our area? See the list below. For more up-to-date information on What’s Developing in Schertz go to Schertz.com/whatsdeveloping

NOW OPEN

1 / Coffee Bound

627 Savannah Dr.

A 360 square foot coffee shop

2 / Izumi Sushi & Hibachi Buffet

17323 IH 35, Suite 102

A new sushi and hibachi buffet tenant, part of the Tri County Crossing II Retail Center

3 / Staff Force Personnel Services

17331 IH 35N, Suite 108

An employment agency/office that will be utilizing the suite space to do office work, and recruiting and staffing for local companies.

4 / The Offices at Forest Ridge

5009 Schertz Parkway

Two medical clinic/office buildings, building #1 being 8,520 square feet and building #2 being 4,000 square feet

5 / Action Behavior Centers, ABA

Therapy for Autism

933 FM 3009

The Schertz ABA Therapy area centers provide autism therapy services for early learners, school-age children, and teens to achieve success on the spectrum. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is the leading treatment method to improve the signs and symptoms associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

COMING SOON

6 / Schertz Medical Office

17766 Verde Parkway

A 53,200 square foot medical office building

7 / Comal ISD Elementary School

233 Hubertus Road

A 96,115 square foot elementary school for the Comal ISD School District

8 / Starbucks

21550 IH 35

A 2,153 square foot Starbucks Coffee

9 / Murdoch's Ranch and Home Supply

917975 IH 35, Building B

A 69,325 square foot retail building. Murdoch’s is a ranch supply store for animal feed & tack, tools, clothing & shoes, hardware, fencing & garden gear

10 / Retail Building

21430 Old Wiederstein Road

A 5,923 square foot retail building

11 / The Learning

Experience- Pre-School

4629 FM 3009

A 10,000 square foot day care facility. Since 1980, TLE® has positively impacted the lives of children by developing and implementing groundbreaking care and early childhood education programs throughout the country.

12 / School of Science and Technology- Schertz Phase II

20845 Technology Ave.

A 71,000 square foot charter school. The School of Science and Technology drives academic and socio-emotional development through a college preparatory, STEM-based learning model. SST’s model is anchored on 21st-century skills, embraced by a character-building approach, and delivered in an enriching, safe, and student-centered learning environment.

Information in this section is finalized around the 15th of the month prior to publication. Some businesses listed in the Coming Soon section may be open upon publication of this magazine.

Around the Community

St. John Paul II Catholic High School Opens their New Gymnasium

On February 13, St. John Paul II Catholic High School opened their newly constructed, 27,000 sq ft. gymnasium. This marks a historic day in the life of the school: to host a home game on campus, the first since the school opened in 2009.

The new gymnasium boasts gorgeous, branded championship volleyball and basketball courts as well as 3 auxiliary volleyball courts and 2 auxiliary basketball courts making it ideal for hosting tournaments and community

events. In October, students participated in a highly successful oneday fundraiser to raise funds to outfit the space with two digital LED scoreboards (one 18 ft!) and audio video equipment to give the fans and athletes a one-of-a-kind experience when attending games and events in their home space. The gym also has a large concession area and lobby that proudly displays the spirit of the school and welcomes guests. The second phase, which includes a large weight room, men’s and women’s locker rooms, training room and laundry has already begun.

This gymnasium project was a combined partnership between the

school, led by Principal Andrew Iliff, and the Archdiocese of San Antonio, led by Archbishop Gustavo as one of the special projects of the Archdiocesan wide “On the Way, Andale” capital campaign.

The project was designed and constructed under the management of Kim Lehmann Gonzalez, Director of Advancement at St. John Paul II CHS and project manager, Bill Norton of the Norton Co. The construction team included General Contractor, Kopplow Construction Co, Architect, Sterling and Kap Architects of Waco, and Civil Engineer, Westwood Professional Services. This gym would not have been possible without the generous donations of parents, alumni, school benefactors and community partners. Several local companies came together to support the school’s efforts through in-kind support including Anderson Columbia, Clark Asphalt, Brauntex Materials, Cemex, Associated Concrete, and The Hanson Group.

Apply for the Schertz-Cibolo Lions Club Scholarship

The Schertz-Cibolo Lions Club has established this scholarship program for high school seniors who are residents or attend school in Schertz or Cibolo, to encourage higher education or training and assist the applicants’ achievement of personal goals.

The Schertz-Cibolo Lions Club works as a service club organization and partners with the Schertz-Cibolo Lions Foundation to raise money for worthy local causes such as this scholarship program. All funds raised are used for charitable purposes; administrative costs are kept strictly separate and paid for by members.

The scholarship award may be used for tuition, fees, or expenses for any full-time post-secondary institution of higher learning. Acceptable institutions include traditional two or four-year colleges or universities accredited by a state, regional or national agency, or an educational, vocational, or technical training program of at least one year in duration.

In the past, up to 5 scholarships of $1,000.00 each have been awarded on a competitive basis. Eligible students must:

■ Be currently enrolled high school seniors (including home-schooled students)

■ Have a graduation date in May/June 2023

■ Reside or attend school in Schertz, Cibolo, or Selma.

Completed application packages must be received (not postmarked) no later than 5 p.m. on Monday, May 8, 2023. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Scholarship winner(s) will not receive direct payment from the Schertz-Cibolo Lions Foundation; instead, awards will be made in the name of the recipient to their selected institution of higher learning upon receipt of evidence of registration or enrollment.

For more information, contact Dr. David L. Scagliola, Scholarship Committee Chair, at (830) 606-1130 or visit the Schertz-Cibolo Lions Club website Calendar page and click the ‘view flyer’ tab on the scholarship listing.

Running in Support of our Service Members

The 13th annual Operation Comfort Selma/Schertz Salute to Service Members 5k was held at Bluebonnet Palace on March 11 and brought out over 200 participants, 93 of those being veterans. Over $33,000 was raised this year for the organization! The run kicked off with a kid's fun run before the main race which began in Schertz and looped into Selma down Lookout Road. Awards were given out to the top 3 male and female participants who placed in each division including an adaptive ambulatory and cycling division. Both Schertz Mayor Ralph Gutierrez and Selma Mayor Tom Daly were in attendance to support the cause.

Operation Comfort was founded in 2004 to support the recreational and rehabilitative needs of wounded, ill, and injured service members and disabled veterans in our local community. This run was organized to honor and support fundraising efforts for this nonprofit as well as help spread awareness

11th Annual

of the program to the local community. It is important that we support those who have volunteered their lives to serve this great country we live in. Healing is constant, and through the five core programs that Operation Comfort offers, they are hoping to provide the tools that will facilitate that. Programs like Operation Comfort rely on community support to help nurture this outlet for recovery and support a welcoming reintegration back into an active lifestyle. Operation Comfort and the veterans express their sincere gratitude to those who attended the 5K in support of their mission. A big thanks goes to event sponsors, GUNN Chevrolet and GUNN Buick GMC, other sponsors, volunteers, the City of Schertz and Selma, Bluebonnet Palace, and the Chamber Ambassadors for coming out each year!

More information on this program can be found at operationcomfort.org.

Easter In The Park

presented by Schertz-Cibolo-Selma Lions Club

Saturday, April 8, 2023 Pickrell Park in Schertz

PleasejoinusforaFREEcommunityeventwithaliveappearance fromtheEasterBunny,games,anegghuntwithTHOUSANDSof eggsandHUNDREDSofprizesforegghuntwinners!

Bring your camera & Easter basket!

Registration begins at 9:15am

Egg Hunt Schedule By Age:

Crawlers –9:45am Age 5 –11:00am

Age 1 –10:00am Age 6 –11:15am

Age 2 –10:15am Age 7 –11:30am

Age 3 –10:30am Age 8 –11:45am

Age 4 –10:45am Age 9-10 –12:00pm

Providing free vision screening for children. Bring canned food donations for RACAP & receive a raffle ticket for one of our grand prizes including a H-E-B $50 gift card!

No need to be present to win!

Sponsored by Schertz-Cibolo-Selma Lions Club H-E-B Plus! & City of Schertz

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!

Mike Ontko, Cindy Fossum, Curtis Jenkins, and Jan Jenkins went to the Dominican Republic and packed their Schertz Magazine for the trip.

Dave and Leah Lynch took their Schertz Magazine and travelled to see The Alhambra in Granada, Spain.

Bob and Sachiko Medhurst took their Schertz Magazine all the way to the island of Oahu, Hawaii!

Steven May travelled to the top of the Pinnacle Trail in the Chisos Mountains at Big Bend and made sure his Schertz Magazine also made the trip!

LOOKING BACK Schertz Texas

Something To Think About . . .

“Carry out a random act of kindness, with no expectation of reward, safe in the knowledge that one day someone might do the same for you.”

–Princess Diana

Schertz History

Education was a priority for settler families. The first curriculums incorporated the Bible as the reader of choice soon supplemented by various subjects. Class progression was determined by successful completion of the reader series. Students who completed a reader series were promoted to the next series and once all series' were completed, the student graduated and returned to the work on the family farm. These were the days of the “one room school house” - all students sat in the small room regardless of age or grade levels. The first teacher of all levels was Christian Koch. Schertz opened its first school house in the mid1890s along FM 1518.

Texas History

The Spoetzl Brewery began in 1909.

Official City Meetings

It was originally named The Shiner Brewing Association (SBA) and was founded by German and Czech immigrants who had settled in Shiner. Unable to find the type of beer they had known in their home countries, they decided to brew their own. It is the oldest independent brewery in Texas and the U.S. Originally, the Shiner beer was only available in the Spring due to the German Lent tradition (Lentenbock). SBA found a Bavarian born (1873) Kosmos Spoetzl, a trained German brewmaster. He was lured to Shiner for potential ownership of the brewery and in 1914, he co-leased it with Oswald Petzold and purchased it in 1915 and named it Shiner Beer. During Prohibition, he struggled and was five of the original 13 Texas breweries still alive. He kept his business simple and small, never going more than 100 miles from the business.

CITY COUNCIL

Ralph Gutierrez Mayor (210) 619-1040 ralphgutierrez@schertz.com

Mark Davis Councilmember (210) 376-9141 markdavis@schertz.com

Michelle Watson Councilmember 210-419-8472 mwatson @schertz.com

Jill Whittaker Councilmember (210) 846-8768 jwhittaker@schertz.com

Michael Dahle Councilmember (210) 419-9337 mdahle@schertz.com

David Scagliola Councilmember (830) 606-1130 davidscagliola@schertz.com

Allison Heyward Councilmember (210) 608-9543 allisonheyward@schertz.com

Tim Brown Councilmember (210) 608-2381 timbrown@schertz.com

If you would like to share your memories living in Schertz before 1970, please submit to Rozwise@aol.com, Schertz Historical Preservation Committee. Information presented by the Schertz Historical Preservation Committee (SHPC) in the interest of historical perspective and community awareness of local historical legacies.