January 2020

BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE CITY OF SCHERTZ, TEXAS

SCHERTZ

Upcoming Events

January 3, 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. New Year, New You Celebration

January 15, 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. Health Awareness

January 30, 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. Birthday Celebration

1739 Schertz Pkwy, Schertz, TX 78154

For More Information Call (210) 491-8179

City Council

Ralph Gutierrez Mayor

Mark Davis Councilmember

Rosemary Scott Councilmember

Scott Larson Councilmember

Michael Dahle Councilmember

David Scagliola Councilmember

Allison Heyward Councilmember

Tim Brown Councilmember

Executive Team

Dr. Mark Browne City Manager

Brian James Assistant City Manager

Charles Kelm Assistant City Manager

Sarah Gonzalez Assistant to the City Manager

Mission

Leading, improving, and serving a livable, sustainable, and financially sound community.

Vision

Community. Service. Opportunity.

Core Values

Treat others the way you would want to be treated. Do the right thing.

Be the best you can. Work cooperatively as a team.

About Our Magazine

Schertz Magazine is a monthly popular lifestyle/entertainment/ community events publication wholly owned and operated by the City of Schertz and produced internally by the Schertz Public Affairs Department. It serves as the primary dissemination source for government information for a growing city of 41,000 residents.

Today, Schertz Magazine is the leading publication in the Tri County area with a circulation of 15,000 copies; including 13,000+ direct mailed and 500+ subscriptions from Austin through San Antonio and around the country (including dozens of out-of-state readers). The magazine is mailed to 12,000+ local households and over 1,000 businesses with hundreds of copies made available at local and regional banks, hospitals and clinics, schools, pharmacies, and restaurants.

06 City Headlines

08 Parks & Recreation

12 Library

TABLE OF CONTENTS FEATURES

30 Features

38 Around the Community

47 Calendar

30

New Mayor Ralph Gutierrez Looks Toward the Future

The Life of the Donut Dollies

CITY MANAGER FROM THE DESK OF THE

Hello everyone! I certainly hope you all had a marvelous Christmas and holiday season and got to enjoy the many festivities during this time of year. I wanted to say thanks to the Parks and Recreation Staff for the wonderful Holidazzle event this year. All the activities were very well done, and we had large crowds all around the City Hall complex and lining the streets for the parade. I really enjoyed the floats and the lighted night parade. What an awesome display of community spirit.

As always, we have a magazine issue that is loaded with great information in January. In this issue we are featuring the new council members, Rosemary Scott and Michael Dahle. We welcome them to the council, and we look forward to working with them to accomplish many projects and initiatives in the next three years. There is also a great story on our new mayor, Ralph Gutierrez. We are excited to be working with Mayor Gutierrez, and we know he will provide outstanding leadership for the City. We have formed a tremendous team between the council and staff here in Schertz, and we look to continue to develop and strengthen staff and council relations to move the City in a positive direction.

In this issue we also recognize Regina Gutierrez for 20 years of service with the City. Regina works as a library assistant and has worked in our library for the entire 20 years. It is so awesome to have great longtime employees, and it sets a wonderful example for all the staff. We congratulate her for this milestone accomplishment.

In the new year, we are looking forward to our Council on the Go meetings which will be held on February 18 at Corbett Junior High and on May 19 at the Scenic Hills Community Center. This is a great opportunity to come out and meet the council members, get an update on the latest projects and activities, and have a chance for an open dialogue on issues of concern. Staff and council always look forward to this opportunity to meet with residents!

Finally, I want to wish all the residents, business owners, and everyone who takes a part in our community a very Happy New Year. We all look forward to an outstanding year in 2020, and we are certain the best years are ahead of us.

JANUARY 2020

PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY Public Affairs Department

Linda Klepper

Public Affairs Director

Devan Flores Communications Manager

Madison Porras

Marketing & Communications Specialist

Contributing Writers

Linda Klepper, Devan Flores, Madison Porras, Stacey Lovett, Lauren Shrum, Elizabeth Bertoia, Erica Abellas, Tyler Bowker, Emily Delgado, Anna Kraft, Kathy Woodlee, Lucille Sims Thomas, Stan Leland, Mark de Kiewiet, Brooke Peters

Contributing Photographers

Devan Flores, Madison Porras, Joseph Herczeg, Stacey Lovett, Richard Eads, Norm Anderson, Barbara Gordy, Mark de Kiewiet, Brooke Peters, Steele Athletics, Samuel Clemens High School Athletic Booster Club

Schertz Magazine is published monthly by the Public Affairs Department of the City of Schertz promoting city, community, and business activities. Our mailing address is 1400 Schertz Parkway, Schertz, Texas 78154. © City of Schertz, Texas

The editorial office of Schertz Magazine is at 1400 Schertz Parkway, Schertz, Texas 78154. Call (210) 619-1630 / Fax (210) 619-1619 Website is Schertz.com

OFFICIAL FINE PRINT

Send queries about articles or photographs to Schertz Magazine at magazine@schertz.com. For advertising information call (210) 619-1633 or email magazine@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. Publication cannot be guaranteed. If you would like to submit an item to Schertz Magazine, email us at magazine@schertz.com or call us at (210) 619-1630.

The appearance of advertising in this publication does not constitute endorsement by the City of Schertz. All products and services advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, marital status, physical or mental handicap, political affiliation or other non-merit factor of purchaser, user or patron.

Articles that appear in Schertz Magazine do not necessarily reflect the official position of the City of Schertz and does not constitute an endorsement therein. The appearance of any advertisement in Schertz Magazine does not constitute an endorsement of the goods or services advertised. Any publication of Schertz Magazine, whether draft or final is sole property of the City of Schertz and cannot be reproduced or distributed in any way, whether in print or electronically, without the express permission and written consent of the City of Schertz.

Dr. Mark Browne City Manager

mbrowne@schertz.com

This month's cover photos shows the awe and amazement of all of the fun and exciting winter fun at Holidazzle.

City Headlines

Holidazzle Brings Jolly

Good Time For All

It was a jolly good time at the Hal Baldwin Municipal Complex for the annual Holidazzle winter festival put on by Schertz Parks & Recreation and the City of Schertz in sponsorship with Gunn Chevrolet. The morning kicked off in the Bluebonnet Hall with Breakfast with Santa where families reserved a seat for a pancake breakfast, courtesy of Abel’s Diner, alongside Jolly Old St. Nick himself. Around 40 vendors ranging from handmade lotions to baked goods were set up next door in the Ballroom for the annual Kris Kringle Market for holiday shopping. Everyone’s favorite free winter themed activities allowed a little fun in the snow we otherwise don’t see here in South Texas. Whether it was sledding Mt. Schertz, making snowballs in the play area, or ice skating on the specialized synthetic “ice,” kids and adults alike were brought back to the simple joys that this time of year brings. Plenty of food truck and photo ops were available as well as entertainment from local elementary schools and performance groups to enjoy prior to the lighted night parade down Main Street and Schertz Parkway.

An estimated 1,500 people lined the main thoroughfare and an additional 800 gathered inside the complex to watch 40 parade entries spread the holiday cheer.

The winners below were judged in four categories:

■ Business: Alligator Dental – Hawaiian Christmas

■ Marching/Walking: Samuel Clemens Mighty Buffalo Band

■ Non-Profit: Artistic Angels Redhatters

■ Specialty: Discovery 4-H Club

Thank you to the community for coming out to celebrate the season, and we look forward to next year! This free community event takes place the first Saturday of every December. Stay tuned to the City of Schertz Facebook page, Schertz Magazine, and Schertz.com for information on upcoming city events.

WE

STAY INFORMED!

Follow us on Facebook at cityofschertz and cityofschertzparksandrecreation

A NIGHT UNDER THE STARS

The stars at night are big and bright....deep in the heart of Schertz, Texas! After the Thanksgiving holiday, on Saturday, November 30, Schertz Parks & Recreation encouraged residents to #OptOutside as an alternative to the traditional shopping frenzy. Attendees were able to enjoy a beautiful night under the stars, and experience the incredible views of the stars and planets through the lens of a telescope. Volunteers from the San Antonio Astronomical Association assisted with the telescopes and share their great knowledge of space. If you haven’t been able to make it to one of the Star Parties yet, make sure to stay tuned for upcoming events this year!

CRESCENT BEND BIRDING WALK

Join us at Crescent Bend Nature Park for the next Birding Walk on Tuesday, January 21 from 8:00 - 11:00 a.m. Meet in the first parking lot with leader Sandi Wheeler for a walk through the park to learn about the bird life. Bring your binoculars, cameras, water, and snacks. All levels of birders are welcome – from beginners to experts.

JOLLY OLD ST. NICK MAKES A SPLASH

The first annual Swim with Santa went off with a splash for Schertz area children of all ages. Over 100 participants gathered at the Schertz Aquatics Center to meet Santa himself and get the chance to take a pool-themed holiday photo while relaying to him all of their Christmas wishes. Following the photo sessions, Santa came bearing candy canes, tossing them into the pool before taking the plunge himself to join in on the fun. Raising Cane’s, Frost Bank, and Alligator Dental were in attendance and passed out gift bags to guests as they enjoyed an evening. Swim with Santa is one of many aquatics events held throughout the year. For a full event calendar, be sure to visit Schertz.com as well as follow us on social media.

NATURE DISCOVERY SERIES

The 2020 Nature Discovery Series schedule is here! Does your little one enjoy being outdoors and searching for creepy crawlies? Do Mom and Dad want to get the family outside more to enjoy time together? Then the Nature Discovery Series is for you! This program is designed for families with elementaryaged children, but older and younger siblings are welcome too! Texas Master Naturalist volunteers will lead the themed programs held at 10:00 a.m. at Crescent Bend Nature Park, and the program is free. Upcoming 2020 dates and topics are:

Jan 11 Discover Early Texans – A day in the life of a Tonkawa child

Feb 8 Discover What’s Flying – Learn clues for looking at birds

Mar 14 Discover Clues & Traces – Find what animals leave behind

April 11 Discover What’s Buzzing and Blooming – Functions of flowers, bees, and butterflies

May 9 Discover Dinosaurs – Dinosaur tracks tell tales

June 13* Discover What’s Swimming –With dipnets, capture invertebrates in Cibolo Creek

July 11* Discover Rocks – Senses and sediments on earth’s building blocks

Sept 12 Discover a Bug’s World – Our world would be different without bugs

Oct 10 Discover Horns and Thorns – Staying alive is tough

Nov 14 Discover Nature Journaling – Real naturalists record and remember

*Held at the Schertz Public Library

SCHERTZ PUBLIC LIBRARY FIESTA MEDALS AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE

The Schertz Public Library Foundation and Library staff invite you to show your support for the Schertz Public Library with its first-ever Fiesta medal! Each medal is available for a $10.00 donation to the library, which can be paid with cash or a check, made out to Schertz Library Foundation. Proceeds from the medals will go to the Schertz Library Foundation in order to fund special projects for the library. You can purchase a medal while supplies last at the library during its regular business hours.

SCHERTZ PUBLIC LIBRARY INTRODUCES CLOUDLIBRARY

Schertz Public Library now offers virtual library cards and a new option for e-book and e-audiobook checkouts through the cloudLibrary app. Additionally, the Library has joined cloudLink, a program that allows us to share digital collections with other participating Texas libraries. Through our cloudLink program, patrons have access to over 100,000 items from other participating libraries across Texas. That is SIX times the amount of titles available in our OverDrive Lone Star Digital Library and more than TEN times the amount of titles available in our former RbDigital collection. As of January 1, RbDigital will no longer be available. The new service is offered at no cost to all Library patrons, requiring only a valid library card. Bibliotheca’s cloudLibrary app is available for free through the Apple App Store or Google Play Store or by visiting yourcloudlibrary.com.

TOUCH-A-TRUCK

Touch-A-Truck is a family-friendly event that hosts a wide variety of vehicles for kids of all ages to play on while learning about the automobiles and how they help serve their communities. Join us in the library's back parking lot on Saturday, January 11 from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. to explore your favorite vehicles including a fire engine, police car, construction truck, a crane, a dump truck, and much more. This is the kick-off event for our Winter Reading Club. Visit any desk in the library to pick up your reading log and start your journey of reading around town.

EXTREME BOOK NERD 2020

Extreme Book Nerd is back in 2020 and it’s bigger and better than ever! New this year we now have three levels of reading. Complete up to three levels of reading and earn the prize for the highest level you reach. The three levels are the Readers’ Dozen (13 book categories), the Book Nerd Challenge (25 book categories), and the Extreme Book Nerd Challenge (52 book categories). Record the books you complete on your reading log throughout 2020. We will have reading logs and book categories available starting February 1 on our website and in the library. NOTE: If you are currently working on the Extreme Book Nerd Challenge 2019, all books must be read and logged by January 31 to receive your prize.

BOARD GAMES @ THE LIBRARY

Did you know board games teach critical thinking, strategic skills, offer social opportunities for participants, keep minds sharp, and are just plain fun? We are excited to offer a new monthly board game program for families starting February 8. Join us on the second Saturday of the month in the Program Room from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. 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).

WHY NON-ARTISTS CAN EXCEL IN INTERNATIONAL FOLK-ARTS: A DEMO BY CULTURAL ANTHROPOLOGIST

CATHLEEN HANDLIN

THURSDAY, JANUARY 2

6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Meeting Room 1

STORY & SWIM TIME

FRIDAY, JANUARY 3

10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Schertz Aquatics Center

ADULT ESL PRONUNCIATION CLASSES

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 8 – WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 5

10:00 - 11:30 a.m.

Meeting Room 1

BOOKENDS AFTERNOON BOOK CLUB: DUTCH HOUSE BY ANN PATCHETT

THURSDAY, JANUARY 9

1:30 p.m.

Meeting Room 1

POETRY OPEN MIC NIGHT

THURSDAY, JANUARY 9

6:30 - 8:00 p.m.

Meeting Room 1

TOUCH-A-TRUCK

SATURDAY, JANUARY 11

10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

RESUME WRITING & COVER LETTERS

MONDAY, JANUARY 13

2:00 - 3:30 p.m.

Meeting Room 1

TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR PAPER

CLUTTER PRESENTATIONS

TUESDAY, JANUARY 21

11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Meeting Room 1

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23

6:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Meeting Room 1

WRITING CIRCLE & CRITIQUE

MEET-UP

SATURDAY, JANUARY 25

3:00 - 4:30 p.m.

Meeting Room 1

SCRAPBOOK AND PAPER CRAFTING

FRIENDSHIP CIRCLE

SUNDAY, JANUARY 26

1:00 - 5:00 p.m.

Meeting Room 1

SCHERTZ AREA GENEALOGY INFORMATION

TUESDAY, JANUARY 7

5:30 – 7:00 p.m.

Meeting Room 1

Connect

Facebook.com/schertzlibrary

Instagram.com/schertzpubliclibrary

Twitter.com/SchertzLibrary

For a comprehensive listing of all library events please visit SchertzLibrary.org

City Headlines

Regina Gutierrez Honored for 20 Years of Service to the City

At the December 3 Schertz City Council Meeting, Regina Gutierrez was honored and presented with her 20-year service pin by City Manager Dr. Mark Browne. Regina started her career with the City of Schertz in July of 1999 as a part-time desk clerk at the Schertz Public Library. She became a full-time employee in October 1999 and is currently the Library Assistant.

Regina was born and raised in Snyder, Texas and graduated from Snyder High School. She didn’t leave there until she was 32 when she came to the City of Schertz. The library happened to be hiring the week she arrived, so she applied and got the job. Previuosly, Regina had worked at the Scurry County Library in Snyder for three years.

Regina recently married her husband, Kevin Leahy, and is the mother of four children, ages 30, 31, 32, and 35. She has six grandchildren with two on the way.

As you would expect from someone working in the library, Regina loves to read and loves anything technical. In fact she is the technology guru in her workplace and has met very little technology that she hasn’t mastered.

“I love books and technology, and the Library is the best of both worlds. I can’t imagine being anywhere else,” says Regina.

Library staff had nothing but kind words to say about Regina. They commented on her sense of humor, her generosity with sharing her knowledge from what she learns, and that she is the very definition of a life-long learner. She cares deeply about people and is usually one of the first people to think about how policies, procedures, and practices impact the customers. They couldn’t imagine how the library would run without her.

“The library has seen so many positive changes over the last twenty years, and Regina has either been the initiator or the cheerleader for so many of them, I’ve lost count,” says Schertz Public Library Director Melissa Uhlhorn. “She embraces change, understands its necessity, and looks for ways to make it happen without undue burden on everyone.”

“The time has flown by these last twenty years, and I've met amazing people in the process,” Regina says. “Schertz is a community of heart, and it was easy to fall in love with the people here. Every day at the Library is an opportunity for a new experience, and I enjoy them all, even the hard ones that force me to grow. There is never a dull moment.”

Congratulations to Regina on this milestone accomplishment, and we wish her several more successful years with the City of Schertz!

Meet Your Schertz City Council

RALPH GUTIERREZ, MAYOR

Ralph Gutierrez was sworn in as the Mayor of the City of Schertz in 2019 and previously served as a City Councilmember for three years. Ralph, a native Texan, has been a Schertz resident since 1991 when he was reassigned to Randolph Air Force Base. In 1994, he retired from the U.S. Air Force, and in January 2016, retired from the U.S. Federal Courts. Ralph earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Maryland. Ralph and Raquel, his wife, have been married for 42 years and are proud parents to their daughter who is a graduate of Samuel Clemens High School and University of Texas-San Antonio.

MARK E. DAVIS, CITY COUNCILMEMBER PLACE 1

Mark E. Davis was re-elected as a City Councilmember in 2019 and previously served for three years. Davis retired from the United States Air Force as a Chief Master Sergeant, in July 2009. In November 2009, he returned to government employment with the United States Air Force and currently serves as an Operations Analyst in the Integrated Defense Cell at the Air Force Installation and Mission Support Center, Port San Antonio, Texas. Davis served on the Park and Recreation Advisory Board since 2008, served on the Traffic Safety Advisory Commission since 2010 and is a member of the Schertz Citizen Police Academy Alumni Association. In 2014, he was appointed by the City Council to serve on the 2014 City Charter Review Commission, where he served as the commission chair. He and his wife Sherry have been married since 1980, and they have three children.

Police Academy Alumni Association. In 2014, he was appointed

ROSEMARY SCOTT, CITY COUNCILMEMBER PLACE 2

Rosemary Scott was elected as a City Councilmember in 2019. Scott grew up in San Antonio and moved to Schertz in 1998 with her husband Guy and their four children. Scott has been active in the Schertz community for more than two decades, volunteering for school and civic events. She joined the Schertz Economic Corporation Board of Directors in 2010 and became its Secretary-Treasurer in 2011. Scott graduated from Trinity University with a Bachelor’s Degree in English and is working towards a Master’s Degree in English. Scott is in her second career as a high school teacher, and she is currently an English Teacher/Publications Advisor at Wagner High School. Rosemary’s husband is an Air Force Veteran, and her two sons currently serve in the military.

SCOTT LARSON, CITY COUNCILMEMBER PLACE 3

Scott Larson was elected to City Council in 2017. Larson graduated from Taft High School in San Antonio, Texas, and after high school, Scott attended the University of Texas at San Antonio. Scott then pursued an opportunity to own and run his own small business. After ten years of experience managing his business, Scott sought to expand his skillset and entered into the financial services sector as the Vice President of Marketing for a small business located in Laramie, Wyoming. Scott currently works in financial services for The Hartford Insurance Group in San Antonio. Larson and his wife Stacy have a daughter and attend the Oak Hills Journey Fellowship Campus in Selma. In his free time, Scott enjoys spending time with family, playing basketball, reading and watching movies. Scott and Stacy enjoying visiting the Library with their daughter, Hannah, who loves storytime and playing at the Playscape.

MICHAEL DAHLE, CITY COUNCILMEMBER PLACE 4

Michael Dahle was elected as a City Councilmember in 2019 to serve a special 1-year term. Over the past six years, Dahle has worked for a local grocery retailer in various store leadership roles, most recently as a facilities manager responsible for managing a number of facilities in the San Antonio market. Dahle began his work in the City by founding the Woman Hollering Creek Owners Association to initiate and secure the release of over 3,500 acres of land from San Antonio to Schertz in 2005, culminating in its acquisition by Schertz in 2010. Michael was appointed to the Schertz Planning & Zoning Commission in 2011 and served until his election to City Council in November 2019, serving the last 2 years as Chairman of Planning & Zoning. Born in Huntsville, Alabama, Dahle and his family made it to Texas when he was 7. Dahle moved to Schertz in 2003 with his wife and their two daughters.

DAVID SCAGLIOLA, CITY COUNCILMEMBER PLACE 5

David L. Scagliola was first elected in 2006 and served until 2014, he then was reelected in 2017. David was born and raised in New Britain, Connecticut, and at the age of 19, he came to Texas courtesy of the United States Air Force and completed Basic Military Training at Lackland Air Force Base. David retired in 2003 after serving over 28 years of active and reserve service

in the United States Air Force. Since 2003, he has been teaching math, statistics, and operations management classes for Park University at Randolph and Lackland Air Force Bases. Scagliola has served the residents of Schertz as a councilman, mayor pro tem, and acting mayor. He is a strong supporter of The Chamber of Commerce, Schertz Humane Society (Homes for Pets), Schertz Seniors' Center, Library, the FFA, and the SCUCISD.

ALLISON HEYWARD, CITY COUNCILMEMBER PLACE 6

Allison Heyward was elected as a City Councilmember in 2018. She has been a resident of Schertz since 2011. She grew up in Houston, Texas and spent her weekends on the family farm in Raywood, Texas. Allison earned a Bachelor's Degree in Accounting from Texas Southern University in 1990. Allison is married to her husband Ferrando; they have been married 27 years and are the proud parents of two children, a daughter, and a son who both graduated from Bryon P. Steele High School. Heyward’s daughter is a graduate of the University of Incarnate Word, and her son is currently attending Liberty University Online. Allison has stayed active as a Girl Scout leader, Cub Scout Committee Chair, Boy Scout leader, Neighborhood Block Captain, Substitute Teacher and volunteer for various church organizations.

TIM BROWN, CITY COUNCILMEMBER PLACE 7 AND MAYOR PRO TEM

Tim Brown was elected as a City Councilmember in 2018. Brown was raised in Detroit, Michigan and earned a Community College of the Air Force Associates Degree in Air Traffic Control in 1986 and completed his Bachelor of Science in Management from Wayland Baptist University in 2001. Brown retired from the United States Air Force after 28 years of service as a Chief Master Sergeant. After retirement from Randolph AFB in October 2004, he started a real estate business along with his wife, Nancy. In January 2011, they officially opened as the broker/owners of RE/MAX Corridor and were able to return to Schertz in November 2013. Brown has served on the Schertz Economic Development Corporation Board of Directors since 2010, and in 2014 he was appointed to the Committee of Committees Advisory Board. He was also appointed to serve on the 2016 Bond Committee.

City Headlines

Dispose of Your Christmas Trees

Republic Services will begin picking up Christmas Trees during the second and third weeks of January. Trees will be picked up only on the second service day for customers with twice per week service. Customers with service on Mondays and Thursdays will have their trees picked up on Thursday. Customers with service on Tuesdays and Fridays will have their trees picked up on Friday.

Customers with once per week service will have their trees picked up on their regular service days. Wednesday customers will have

their trees picked up on Wednesday. Friday customers will have the trees picked up on Friday.

Trees must be placed at the curb. Any trees taller than 7 feet must be cut in half. Any trees at the curb after the third week would need to be called in as a bulk pick up. For more information contact (210) 619-1800.

Help Keep Our Streets Clean

The City's Public Works Department cleans about 650 miles of streets every month in the City of Schertz. In order to maintain all of the roadways, the sweepers follow a regular monthly schedule. To help the sweepers clean all of the roads, the City asks that residents do not place yard waste- including leaves, tree limbs, or brush into City streets or right of ways. Placing large amounts of leaves and debris in the roadways can cause equipment failures, such as clogged vacuum chutes, that result in delays. Instead, please mulch leaves when mowing or rake and bag them to be placed out for trash pickup.

The Public Works Department works hard to keep up with sweeping schedules while managing the costs with only two street sweepers. As our City continues to grow at a rapid pace, these goals can be challenging, especially during this fall/winter season with the leaves falling throughout the city. We ask that everyone please do their part to keep our streets clean.

For more information call the Public Works Department at (210) 619-1800.

COMMUNITY HEALTH COURSES

Schertz EMS is an American Health & Safety Institute Training Center and an American Heart Association Training Site. Its Community Health Department teaches a variety of classes from your basic CPR and First Aid to advanced classes specifically for medical professionals.

CPR AND FIRST AID

CPR/AED and First Aid for Everyone

Schertz EMS holds monthly CPR/AED and First Aid classes throughout the year. These classes are open to the public and provide a certification that is good for two years and can be used in several different professional settings. Most importantly, these classes teach a pivotal skill that you never know when you may need to use on a loved one. Bystander CPR can be done immediately after someone collapses into sudden cardiac arrest to save their life. For every 1 minute that someone is in cardiac arrest and does not receive CPR, their chances of survival reduce by 10%. Waiting to do anything until an ambulance arrives after the person has collapsed can decrease their chances of survival significantly. We encourage everyone to become CPR/AED trained at a minimum.

In order to take the class, you only need to be able to read and write, so even older children and teenagers are encouraged to attend. The skill itself can be incredibly easy to learn; however, this class will also give you background information as to why it is important to learn CPR and how chest compressions are effective during cardiac arrest. The class allows ample time for skills practice on manikins.

The First Aid course goes over many common injuries and illnesses as well as how you can treat them at home prior to more advanced help arriving. This course offers a little bit of knowledge in a lot of different areas. We also allow time for practicing skills such as how to control bleeding during the class.

CPR/AED training will run from 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM and the First Aid course will run from 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM. The cost is $30 for one course or $50 for two. The classes are held in the EMS Training Room. Classes are offered on the following dates:

January 11

February 21

March 21

April 25

May 23

June 13

July 18

August 8

September 12

October 10

November 7

December 12

BABYSITTING

Child and Babysitting Safety for Teens and Older

The Child and Babysitting Safety (CABS) program from ASHI gives teenagers and young adults everything they need to know for safe and successful babysitting. From dealing with parents and children, to key safety, caregiving, and first aid tips. The magazine-format CABS guide and vlogger-style video make learning fun. This class is perfect for teens and young adults interested in babysitting or who are responsible for younger family members. There are no prerequisites, however, CPR/AED and Basic First Aid certifications are strongly recommended. Students must complete a written and skills examination. Students who successfully complete the course receive a certification that is good for 2 years. Classes are offered on the following dates:

April 11 June 20

May 2 July 25

May 30

STOP THE BLEED Stop the Bleed for Everyone

Massive uncontrolled bleeding from any cause can result in death in 5 to 10 minutes. However, anyone at the scene can act as an immediate responder and save lives if they know what to do to stop life-threatening bleeding. The techniques taught in the class can be utilized during a car crash, recreational accident, every day emergencies, and acts of violence. The class will go over proper bleeding control techniques, including how to use your hands, dressings, and tourniquets to control lifethreatening bleeding. Classes are offered on the following dates:

February 29

April 4

June 13

August 29

October 17

December 5

For more information or to register, please call (210) 619-1410 or visit Schertz.com.

From the Development Whiteboard Planning

Planning and Community Development 2019 Year in Review

Development in Schertz in 2019 has been great! This past year, the Inspections Division issued over 300 residential home permits, as well as over 1,000,000 square feet of new commercial and industrial buildings, were permitted and constructed in the City. The Planning Division received over 90 projects within 2019 for review and approval.

Based on state law changes the Planning Division overhauled the planning process in September. In doing so, one major change was going paperless on all Planning applications. This mirrored what previously had been implemented by the Inspections Division. Now all plans and applications reviewed by Planning and Community Development are completed digitally.

In 2019 the Planning & Community Development Department coordinated the inaugural meeting of the Building and Standards Commission. This new Commission was created to hear and assist with building and fire code interpretations and address certain code enforcement concerns.

During Building Safety Month in May department staff hosted outreach events at Lowe’s Home Improvement and Primrose School of Schertz to promote building safety. The Planning and Community Development Department also participated in the 2019 Trunk-orTreat event, assisting in providing the residents of Schertz and surrounding communities a safe place to trick or treat. Staff enjoyed this event immensely and intends to make this a yearly tradition for the department.

The department welcomed Ashley Deasy as Development Specialist which was a new position in the department in 2019. This new position has tremendously increased the organization of the building permit process for commercial developments within the City. Additionally, Emily Delgado was promoted to Senior Planner, meaning in 2020 the Planning Division will welcome a new Planner to the team.

In 2019 the Inspections Division excelled at continuing education with Building Inspectors earning 8 new International Code Council certifications; 2 State Plumbing Inspector licenses and 1 Medical Gas Inspector license endorsement. Waylin Caraway is the only known City of Schertz Inspector to have obtained the State of Texas Medical Gas endorsement. The knowledge gained through earning the certifications helps prepare the inspectors to achieve our mission to ensure the safe and orderly development of the City.

Another big accomplishment within the Planning and Community Development Department in 2019 was Gil Durant being awarded the 2019 Building Official of the Year Award by the Building Officials Association of Texas. The Planning Division was also recognized for the sixth year in a row by the American Planning Association - Texas Chapter for Planning Excellence.

In addition to continuing education and certifications, our Inspections Division assisted in the coordination of training events for inspectors and contractors in the surrounding area. This included sessions on plumbing continuing education, construction of residential decks, installation of roofing and floor trusses, along with training on ADA compliance.

Overall 2019 was a successful year for the department and the City. If you have an interest in remodeling or new development, or just want to know more about the development occurring in the City, please give us a call or stop by City Hall. We are here and happy to assist you in your development needs.

or stop by City Hall. We are here and happy to assist you in your development needs.

Happy New Year from the Planning & Community Development Staff !

Happy New Year from the

Calling all captains and mermaids! We are going under the sea for the 2020 Daddy Daughter Dance on Friday, February 21 from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. at the Schertz Civic Center. at

Join us for an evening with your little mermaid filled with music, dancing, refreshments, crafts, and more.

Schertz Parks & Recreation invites dads and daughters of all ages to a night you’ll never forget. This event is open to all families and focuses on the importance of quality time.

Mermaid hair and all, dress for a night of whirling and twirling out on the ocean floor. There will be plenty of photo opportunities to capture the sweet moments and create a nice keepsake photo to take home. A craft to commemorate the night will be available as an activity. Light snacks and drinks will be served.

Tickets are presale only from January 6 - February 14 while supplies last. Tickets are $40 per couple, and each additional family member is $15.00. Space is limited and tickets will not be sold at the door. Tickets can be purchased by going to Schertz.com. Make sure to follow Schertz Parks & Recreation on Facebook for more information and updates.

We can’t wait to share the night with you and your loved ones!

City Headlines

Council on the Go is Back!

Council on the Go is returning in 2020, and we encourage you to come out and participate! These town hall-style meetings began in 2016 as an initiative to take City Council meetings on the road and into neighborhoods focusing on area-specific subjects. The goal is to offer residents a closer, more accessible and convenient venue to interact with City Council and City Staff periodically. Each Council on the Go event will begin with a Meet & Greet session where City staff will have tables set up with giveaways, informational items, and to answer any questions you may have about department projects. This is a great opportunity to learn more about City services, projects, and programs and address any concerns you may have. Mark your calendars, and we hope to see you at one of the events!

2020 COUNCIL ON THE GO DATES

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 18

Meet & Greet – 6:30 p.m.

Meeting – 7:00 p.m.

Ray D. Corbett Junior High School

TUESDAY, MAY 19

Meet & Greet – 6:30 p.m.

Meeting – 7:00 p.m.

Scenic Hills Community Center

Pedestrian safety in and around schools is an important topic for everybody. An increase of pedestrians in these areas include students, parents and teachers. In addition, the construction in and around Clemens High School has shown an increase of traffic hazards from construction equipment and machinery creating more hazards for motorists.

Texas Transportation Code 552 discusses pedestrian traffic. If crosswalks are provided, the pedestrian must use the crosswalks and obey the signal light (walk/don’t walk).

We are concerned for the safety of our citizens and visitors. Please utilize the crosswalks.

The crosswalks are placed at Clemens to provide a visible warning to drivers and provide a safer environment to cross.

Crossing Elbel Road from the Administration building to the Clemens’ Gym is unsafe and against the law.

CITY ROADWAY CONSTRUCTION

Project Update on Tri-County

On November 12, City Council awarded a construction contract to D & S Concrete Contractors for the reconstruction of part of Schertz Parkway and part of Tri-County Parkway. D & S Concrete Contractors expect to get started on the project in January. They will reconstruct Tri-County Parkway first, then reconstruct Schertz Parkway.

Tri-County Parkway from the I-35 Frontage road to Corridor Parkway will be reconstructed with a concrete pavement section. Concrete pavement is needed due to heavy traffic, particularly with larger trucks on this section of the roadway, and the drainage in the area. In order to minimize the length of construction the entire section of road will be closed; however, the longest anticipated closure should only be 30 calendar days. A small portion of Corridor Parkway at the intersection with Tri-County Parkway will also be reconstructed into a new concrete pavement section. This work will be completed with the reconstruction of Tri-County Parkway. Detour routes will be identified during construction and maps of the detours will be posted on Schertz.com.

Once Tri-County Parkway is completed, construction will begin on Schertz Parkway from Maske Road to Woodland Oaks Drive. The existing asphalt street section will be replaced with stronger, more durable concrete pavement. The median island on Woodland Oaks Drive will also be modified. The front of the median will be pulled back, out of the crosswalk area, and the width of the median will be decreased to allow for two lanes for cars approaching Schertz Parkway. The asphalt pathway on the east side of Schertz parkway will also be re-built. The new pathway section will be similar to the re-built roadway between Live Oak Road and Maske Road which was completed in March 2018. Traffic will be restricted to one lane in each direction during construction. The Woodland Oaks intersection will also need to be closed for a portion of the construction process.

Look for regular project updates on the Engineering Department page of Schertz.com and on the City’s social media pages.

• Addresses issues (drainage to shifted

• Reconstruction section to traffic loading drainage

Maske

Woodland

• Reconstruction

City Headlines

Help Prevent Stormwater Pollution

In the November issue of Schertz Magazine, it was explained that the City of Schertz operates a Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) that is permitted by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and the primary pollutant targeted for control is bacteria.

Septic System

Besides pet waste, another source of bacteria pollution in drainage and waterways is improperly maintained or failing septic systems. So, how does a septic system cause bacteria to pollute a storm sewer system? Aren’t the storm sewers and the sanitary sewers separate? The answer is yes – they are separate systems, but if a septic system isn’t properly maintained, untreated, contaminated water can end up above the ground and in a drainage way.

All over the country, including here in Schertz, many homes and even some businesses still rely on septic systems for disposal of wastewater. In more densely populated parts of the City, wastewater is collected and transported via centralized wastewater facilities. Sewage leaves the building through a pipe called a lateral to a public sewer main most often located in the street. It is then transported through a series of pipes to one of the sewage treatment plants that serve the City. The waste is treated at the plant to separate the solid waste from the water and clean water (free of bacteria) is discharged to a river, creek, or stream, or it is pumped through a network of pipes and used for irrigation or makeup water for a pond. A septic system (known as an on-site sewage facility, or OSSF) is a small, private version of a treatment plant. Waste flows to the system tank where solids both settle and float. The solids decompose, and treated water flows out of the tank into a drain field made perforated pipes buried in welldrained soils or it is used as a source of water for an irrigation system. Sounds simple, right?

It is a simple technology, but proper maintenance is necessary in order for the septic system to function correctly, keep your plumbing flowing smoothly, and looking out for the health of the rest of the community and environment.

Here are some tips to keep a septic system in good working order:

Think at the Sink and Don’t Strain the Drain!

■ Avoid harsh chemicals and cleaners in large quantities.

■ Dispose of solids (food remnants and trimmings) in the trash or compost – limit the use of garbage disposal.

■ Keep oil, grease, and fat out of the drain! These should all go into the trash.

■ Never flush the following (whether you have a septic system or a connection to the sewer): Paper towels · cigarette butts · disposable diapers · wipes (even those marked “flushable”) · feminine hygiene products · plastics · medications · cotton swabs or balls · kitty litter · dental floss · toxic substances

■ Be water-wise – Stagger use of water-based appliances (dishwasher, washing machine, showers).

Have your system inspected by a qualified professional every three years and pumped when needed according to that inspection. By following these tips, your system will work efficiently, you will avoid costly repair or replacement, and perhaps most importantly, you will contribute to the health of the environment.

For more information on stormwater in the City of Schertz, go to “Stormwater Management” on the Engineering Department page of Schertz.com.

Sewer Averaging 2019-2020

Sewer averaging for the winter months began on October 24, 2019, and will continue through March 6, 2020, for cycle billing. Water usage over this period determines your sewer charge for the next billing year, which begins April 1. The water usage readings will be averaged and the average per thousand-gallon usage per month will be multiplied by $4.46. That total will be added to the base rate of $13.54 for residents with an average below 12,000 gallons.

For residents with usage greater than 12,001 gallons, the first 12,000 gallons will be multiplied by $4.46 and the portion of the average above 12,000 gallons will be multiplied by $10.12 and that total will be added to the base rate of $13.54 for residential use. The final calculation result will be your sewer charge for the next 12 months.

For more information, go to Schertz.com or call (210) 619-1100.

Another Year of City Financial Excellence

The Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting was recently awarded to the City of Schertz by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) for its comprehensive annual financial report (CAFR). This is the 34th time in a row the City has received such achievement.

The Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management.

The CAFR has been judged by an impartial panel to meet the high standards of the program, which includes demonstrating a constructive “spirit of full disclosure” to clearly communicate its financial story and motivate potential users and user groups to read the CAFR.

This great honor is attributable to the City of Schertz Finance Department and the City Management for the great work that they do every day.

New Mayor Ralph Gutierrez Looks Toward the Future

By: Lucille Sims Thomas

Ralph Gutierrez knows that those who have served before him have forged a great path filled with steady progress, and as the new mayor of Schertz, he hopes to build on that progress going forward. He credits many of the City’s accomplishments and prosperity to former mayors Michael Carpenter, Hal Baldwin, and others before them and believes the city is already well-positioned for continued success.

“The ultimate goal of this position is to continue on the successes that former mayors have started, to plan for the future, and to continue the progress that was made prior to me stepping in,” Gutierrez said.

Gutierrez who is retired from two careers is looking forward to dedicating his time to serving as Mayor as he leads the city into the next decade.

Ralph, 62, was born and raised in El Paso, Texas and graduated from Bel Air High School in 1976. He ran cross country and track while in high school, which led to a lifelong love of running that he still nurtures to this day. “It’s a form of relaxation for me; when I run and I listen to music, I follow my cadence, my heartbeat as I run along the roads of the city. It’s difficult for anybody to understand - unless you’re a runner - how relaxing it can be,” he said. Other hobbies include yoga, yard work, and running 5Ks, 10Ks and half marathons.

While still in high school, he got his first job as a cashier/stocker at a grocery store in El Paso where he met, Raquel, the woman who would become his wife. Ralph and Raquel have been married for 42 years and have one daughter.

I ran for office because I wanted to make a difference. It’s not about me – it’s about we – I want the community involved.

In 1979, he decided to join the U.S. Air Force and worked as a personnel specialist and later a career advisor, while also earning his bachelor’s degree. He praised the Air Force for pushing his life in the right direction. “That’s the thing about the Air Force, they not only teach you discipline, but they also teach you skill,” Gutierrez said. His last job with the Air Force was installing computers and computer software which took him all over the world and landed him in Schertz. Gutierrez first set foot in Schertz in 1991 as part of his computer installation duties for the Air Force. “I was here when Schertz still had a volunteer fire department. I have seen the changes; when we didn’t have an H-E-B we had to go to San Antonio. And we thought San Antonio was far,” he said.

After serving 15 years in the Air Force, Gutierrez considered going to officer training school, but decided to take the early retirement option available at the time. After retiring from the Air Force, he immediately went to work for the U.S. Federal Court doing similar computer work to what he had done while in the military. He later became an assistant branch chief for the Public Access to Court Electronic Records (PACER) service center and retired from there in 2016.

With two long and successful careers under his belt, Gutierrez then turned his focus to local government after taking issue with a planned apartment complex on FM 3009, which he thought should be built at a different location. To his surprise, he won his first City Council race in 2016. “I ran for office (City Council) because I wanted to make a difference. I didn’t have any other commitments so I have been able to make the city my priority for the past three years,” the new mayor said.

Gutierrez, who was sworn in as the ninth Mayor of Schertz on November 18, 2019, said he is looking forward to leading the City of Schertz forward and wants more residents to get involved in city issues. “It’s not about me – it’s about we – I want the community involved,” he said.

continued on page 32

New Mayor Ralph Gutierrez Looks Toward the Future

continued from page 31

He also believes economic development is always the key to a successful community. “We can let things happen or we can make things happen, and we need to have the courage to take risks on some of these economic development projects that come around,” Gutierrez said.

As mayor, Gutierrez said he wants to continue trying to make a difference in people’s lives and trying to make a difference in the City of Schertz. He sees the City’s main issues as growth, economic development, infrastructure, and maintaining an adequate source of water. “The growth is unavoidable – it’s happening – but we have to continue to be a great community with small-town values. That’s why people move to Schertz,” he said. “We’re going to continue to grow, but we need to have responsible growth.”

We can let things happen or we can make things happen, and we need to have the courage to take risks on some of these economic development projects that come around.

PRESENTING SPONSORS:

The Life of the Donut Dollies

By: Stan Leland

Mary Bowe had a dilemma. She was graduating from St. Louis University in 1968. She had a diploma but no direction for her future. “I was a wild and crazy girl with no idea what to do with my life,” said Mary. Her suitemate, Dorset Anderson, was hoping to join the military and go to Vietnam. In the 60s that was not an option for a woman, unless she was a nurse. However, Dorset discovered the Supplemental Recreational Activities Overseas (SRAO) program within the American Red Cross.

The SRAO originated during World War 2. Some of the Red Cross women served coffee and donuts to troops in forward base areas. At some point, the nickname “Donut Dollies” was used and became the unofficial name for the women in the program. The SRAO continued during the Korean War and the Vietnam War. College graduate women were recruited and given two weeks of training. They were issued two uniforms styles, both light blue: knee-length dresses and culottes. Their tour was 12 months with the option to extend in 2-month intervals.

When Dorset told Mary about the program, she thought it sounded like a once in a lifetime adventure as well as a wild and crazy idea. They signed up with the intention of serving together when they reached Vietnam.

Mary and Dorset were two of the 627 young women who served “in country”. Many found the work so rewarding they extended their contracts. Mary served 14 months and Dorset 18 months.

When Mary and Dorset landed in Vietnam, they were given their assignments. Unfortunately, they were assigned to different units. “That was the last time I saw Dorset for many years,” said Mary.

The units had 6-8 women with a unit director. They were sent to various large bases that were reasonably secure and had housing for women. Their job was to go to the different firebases around their home base. Carrying a suitcase-sized duffle bag that contained playing cards, games, posters, and props for

I was used to the big smiles of the soldiers as they saw us coming into a landing zone wearing our distinctive blue dress.

skits, each morning, at dawn, the women gathered at the helipads waiting for helicopters flying to the firebases. They would hitch a ride and when reaching the firebase would look for a place to set up their program.

“Sometimes we might have only 15 minutes before the chopper had to leave,” said Mary, “we would play a game that was high on participation and for those few minutes the men were distracted and had fun.” Other times they might be at a base for several hours. “If the soldiers had experienced combat recently, sometimes all they wanted to do was talk. So, we listened,” said Mary. One doesn’t have to fully understand to be understanding and those conversations provided timely emotional and psychological support. Their daily presentation depended heavily on the creativity and the imagination of the “Dollies”. “Depending on the situation, we would perform skits or sing,” said Mary.

Despite being in combat zones the women were not issued helmets or flak jackets. “We were too busy to be scared,” said Mary. One time, Mary and her partner flew back to their home base in a small 4-seat “Loach” helicopter. The mission for these choppers was to “troll for fire”. When they drew enemy fire, the pilot would call in an airstrike. Mary thought the pilot was just showing off by flying at treetop height. “I was sitting by the open door enjoying the ride when suddenly I heard automatic weapons fire below us,” recalled Mary. The pilot just continued flying and talking on the radio, as though nothing was wrong. “I didn’t realize until we landed that we had been shot at,” said Mary.

Around Christmas time 1969, Mary discovered a Santa suit in the Red Cross inventory. She asked a priest who was making trips to the front to conduct services if she could accompany him wearing the Santa suit. “I was used to the big smiles of the soldiers as they saw us coming into a landing zone wearing our distinctive blue dress,” said Mary, “but it was a hoot seeing their faces as they watched Santa Claus flying into their base.” Mary found a rock to sit on and had them line up to tell “Santa” what they wanted for Christmas. Each of them sat on her lap just like little boys. “It was one of my favorite memories,” said Mary.

After 14 months in Vietnam, Mary came back a different person. “I was more attuned to other people’s thoughts and feelings,” said Mary, “I had grown up. I was more confident and had a deeper faith. I made a pledge to those that did not come back that I would cherish life as precious and appreciate every day as special.”

continued on page 36

The Life of the Donut Dollies

continued from page 35

After a few years in California, she moved to San Antonio, became certified to teach and then dedicated two decades teaching elementary students in the San Antonio ISD.

In 1993 the Vietnam Women’s memorial was dedicated in Washington DC. Several of the Dollies attended the ceremony and Mary saw Dorset for the first time in many years.

In the early 2000s Dorset mentioned that her son, Norm Anderson was working on a documentary featuring the Donut Dollies. Mary was happy to add her perspective to the effort. For the next 11 years, the Dollie project was self-funded by Norm and his family. In 2014 a Kickstarted campaign raised enough money to send Dorset, Mary and the film crew to Vietnam. Seeing the country he had heard about for years and watching the reactions of Dorset and Mary gave the film a quantum leap in energy and importance.

They traveled to several of the locations where they had served. One of the bases was Dragon Mountain near Pleiku. “It was all overgrown with trees,” said Mary, “It was beautiful but unrecognizable.” During the war, Mary was captivated by the beauty of the countryside. “I thought after the war Vietnam would become a resort destination,” said Mary, “It really is a beautiful country.” The sounds, sights, and smells brought memories flowing back to both Mary and Dorset. The film crew captured their reactions and comments on video.

Their story is now a full-length documentary entitled “The Donut Dollies”. This past September the film won first place at the GI Film festival in San Diego. Mary and Dorset attended the festival and it was Mary’s first time to see the entire movie. “I laughed and I cried watching it,” said Mary, “Dorset and I were movie stars for a day, and it was a great experience.”

This special documentary pays tribute to the 627 women who served our country willingly and enthusiastically. It’s a story worth telling and one worth hearing. For anyone interested in purchasing the film, join the film’s mailing list at DonutDollies.com, or send an email to memories@donutdollies.com.

Mary has lived in Schertz for over 20 years and has retired from teaching elementary students. Now, as a Master Gardner she can be found every Tuesday and Friday morning at the Schertz demonstration garden planting and harvesting crops and then delivering them to food banks in Schertz and Marion.

Put aFREEZE on Winter Fires

Home fires occur more in winter than in any other season. As you stay cozy and warm this winter season, be fire smart!

Half of all home heating fires occur in the months of December, January and February.

Keep portable generators outside, away from windows, and as far away as possible from your home.

Heating equipment is involved in 1 in every 7 reported home fires and 1 in every 5 home fire deaths.

Install and test carbon monoxide alarms at least once a month.

Have a qualified professional clean and inspect your chimney and vents every year.

Keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet from any heat source like fireplaces, wood stoves, radiators or space heaters.

Plug only 1 heat-producing appliance (such as a space heater) into an electrical outlet at a time.

Store cooled ashes in a tightly covered metal container, and keep it outside at least 10 feet from your home and any nearby buildings.

For more information on how to prevent winter fires, visit www.usfa.fema.gov/winter and www.nfpa.org/winter.

AROUND THE COMMUNITY

Successful Season for Local Football Teams

Our Clemens Buffaloes and Steele Knights fought diligently through another intense football season. Both Clemens and Steele became playoff eligible as Clemens went 7-0, and Steele went 5-2 in district. In the San Antonio High School Football Rankings, Clemens was ranked number 3 and Steele was ranked number 5. In state rankings, Clemens ended the season at number 62 and Steele ended at 95.

The Steele Knights advanced to Bi-District round of playoffs, but were knocked out of the playoffs during the game against Westlake after an overall great season. The Knights ended their season at 8-3.

Clemens went on to advance through Bi-District, to take on Brandeis in the Area game. The Buffs put up a good fight but were defeated by Brandeis 35-21. They ended their season 10-2.

Samuel Clemens High School head football coach Jared Johnston has been selected to coach the black team in the San Antonio Sports All-Star Football Game, presented by H-E-B, featuring the

top local high school players in the region. In addition, six players from both teams have been selected to play. The game will follow the U.S. Army All-American Bowl on Saturday, January 4 in the Alamodome. Kickoff is scheduled for 5:00 p.m.

Daryn McKnight, defensive end Damion Hart, and defensive back Maison Sharp will represent Byron P. Steele High School on the gold team. Wide receiver Vicente Perez, linebacker Derrick Lewis, and linebacker Keion Bennett from Clemens High School will be joining coach Jared Johnston on the black team. These athletes have worked diligently, so go out and show your support at the All-Star game.

The community is incredibly proud of the hard-working student athletes and their accomplishments throughout the season. We look forward to another successful football season in 2020!

Local Mobile Food Pantry Offered Once a Month

Once a month, a mobile food pantry for Bracken United Methodist Church, with the help of the San Antonio Foodbank, gathers at the large pavilion at Pickrell Park to hand out food to those in need in our community.

This mobile food pantry is open on the fourth Wednesday of each month, except in December when it’s the third Wednesday, from 8:30 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. This pantry serves between 100 - 170 families, and it is completely funded by Bracken UMC. It takes about 20 volunteers to put together this service each month.

Food pantry volunteers not only come from Bracken UMC, but some come from other churches and the community. For more information about this service, call Barbara Gordy at (210) 789-7864 or email her at big0948@hotmail.com.

Scholarship Program

Schertz Sweetheart Applications Available Now!

Court members serve as ambassadors for the Schertz community

Court Members are Schertz Residents enrolled in 9th - 12th grade

Applications are available at Schertz.com

Email applications to parksandrec@schertz.com or turn them in at 10 Commercial Place, Bldg 1

Miss Sunshine

Miss Jubilee

Miss Schertz

Miss Friendly City

Miss Schertz

Hello, my name is Megan Elise Morales, and I am proud to be representing our city as Miss Schertz. This is my second year on the Sweetheart Court, and I am truly honored to have been selected to be an ambassador to our beautiful city and community. I have learned a great deal these last two years on the Sweetheart Court and it has been an amazing, rewarding, and educational experience for me. I have had the pleasure of meeting and working with the Mayor, City Councilmembers, City employees, and the community as well as participating in various community service events and festivals.

I am currently a senior at Samuel Clemens High School where I am an active member of the varsity Belles dance team, P.I.E club, and the Samuel Clemens chapter of the National Honor Society. Throughout my high school career, I have grown and achieved much more than I ever could have imagined. From being so involved with my school, I have learned that it is important to do what truly makes me happy and to not be afraid of trying new things. I love to volunteer and help my community however I can, which is why I am involved with electives that will allow me to do so and achieve so much more.

In my future, I am hoping to further my education and pursue a career in biomedical engineering. This field is such an interesting and unique path for me and entails developing prosthetic limbs and artificial organs, as well as looking into different types of medicines. I have always been told by my family to dream big and that no goal is too far to reach, which has helped me to have confidence in this future path I choose to embark on.

Being a part of a program such as the Sweetheart Court has made such an important impact on my life; I cannot begin to explain. Without this amazing program, I may have never had the experiences that have shaped me into who I am today. I have learned how to properly speak to and communicate with others, how it is important to lead by example, and that a smile goes a long way! I want to thank this program for everything that is has offered and for the many opportunities that are soon to come. I love this city and everyone in it and am so happily blessed to continue my reign as Miss Schertz.

AROUND THE COMMUNITY

The Schertz Infinity 4-H Club Wins Grant

The Infinity 4-H Bee Project received a grant for $1,000 from Capital Farm Credit of New Braunfels, to help develop and grow the project and help educate students about these valuable pollinators.

The Infinity 4-H Club helps develop leadership skills, teamwork, social skills, responsibilities, and life skills. The club participates in various activities for the community and for fun including knitting hats for children with cancer, therapy dogs at old age homes, construction of a Little Free Library for the community, and raising awareness for the pollinators through their handson apiary.

The Infinity 4-H Club president, Emma de Kiewiet was presented the grant check from David Harrison, VP Field Marketing, Capital Farm Credit.

The club recently participated in the Texas Beekeepers’ Association annual conference held in San Antonio this past November. The bee club entered a painted hive into the hive painting competition, and the entered hives were auctioned off at the conference to raise funds to educate the youth about the life-sustaining benefits of the wonderful insects.

The bee project is supervised by two certified natural beekeepers, Francis Spalding and Mark de Kiewiet, who is also a Master Naturalist. They will soon be teaching the members how to construct and maintain a holistic hive, native Texas bees, and to provide natural food sources to sustain a healthy hive. Each member of the club will manage their own beehive and at the end of the year, as a reward, the members will harvest their own honey.

Their project started with the members volunteering at the Texas Beekeeping Association annual conference. The members monitored lecture rooms and helped manage the exhibit tables. This gave them the opportunity to learn from the lectures and vendors about beekeeping, equipment, and how to make products relating to the beekeeping industry such as lotions, creams, creamed honey, and medicinal products.

With the help of the sponsoring Bee Club, Bees-in-the-East of Guadalupe County, the students entered in a table centerpiece, and a painted ‘super’ hive box, winning the collectors patches for 2019.

If you are interested in the 4-H Bee Project you can email 4Hinfinityclub@gmail.com for more information.

There is More to Square Dancing than “Do-Si-Do”

Are you someone who likes to travel and interact with local people? Do you like to laugh and have fun? Would you like to make some new friends? How about getting some exercise without sweating at a gym and stimulating your mind at the same time? If you answered “yes” to any one of these, you might enjoy Modern Western Square Dancing.

Most peoples’ idea of square dancing is either ladies in short skirts with huge petticoats and men with bolo ties moving around in a square to twangy music or as something they did in high school. Well, folks, things have changed! We have new music - blues, rock, gospel, Broadway show tunes, country/western, and reggae. Fancy square dance duds are no longer required, so women wear skirts of any length or pants, and men come in jeans. In the summer some folks even come in shorts. The key is to be comfortable. Of course, some people still dress in traditional attire but it is no longer mandatory.

Do you have or know of a teenager who could benefit from a scholarship? Teens involved in square dancing for as little as two years are eligible for college or trade school scholarships through the Texas Federation of Square and Round Dancer Teen Scholarship program. Teens can also receive alternative PE credits by taking square dance lessons and then dancing at a local square dance club. Interested teens should ask their guidance counselors about both of these programs.

FunDancers, Schertz’s only square dance club, will be offering beginning square dance lessons starting on Sunday, January 5 at 3501 Morning Drive, Schertz, TX 78108 (in the Northcliff subdivision). Lessons are from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. every Sunday. The first lesson is free. Lessons are open to singles, couples, families, and teens. No partner is necessary to take lessons or to square dance. Visitors are always welcome to come and watch. For more information contact jimpresfundancers@yahoo.com or call Fay at (210) 381-2722.

STATES

Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Hawaii, Louisiana, Missouri, Nevada, New York, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, Washington D.C.

Schertz Magazine Travels the World in 2019

Can you believe 2019 is already over? Schertz Magazine has done its fair share of traveling over the past several years, and each year we like to look back on the amazing locations you all have taken the publication.

Thanks to our wonderful readers who trek it with them wherever they go, from the North Pole to the South Pole and dozens of places far and in between, Schertz Magazine continues to be a traveling icon for Schertz residents. Where will it go to next? Well that's for you to decide. Check out the various destinations the magazine has traveled in 2019, and remember to keep sending in your Schertz Magazine All Over The Map photos throughout 2020!

COUNTRIES AND TERRITORIES

Aruba, Australia, Bahamas, Belize, Bermuda, Canada, Colombia, Czechia, Denmark, England, Egypt, France, Germany, Greece, Guam, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, Norway, Panama, Singapore, Spain, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand

ESTIMATED TOTAL MILES TRAVELED: 247,851 MILES

Bring your SchertzMagazinealong 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 SchertzMagazine!

20-year teachers at Schertz Elementary Shannon Lamb Maryfield and Michele Garcia along with Amy Clark Barnes and Zachary Barnes visited Kenai Fjords National Park in Alaska with their Schertz Magazine.

Agustina Park hiking on La India Dormida in Panama with her Schertz Magazine

Robert Havey showing off his Schertz Magazine at Winnipeg Zoo in Canada.

BryanandAlexanderFigueroa broughttheirSchertzMagazine acrossthepondtoLondon, England.

Dr. Peter Holmes & Robin Getter took their SchertzMagazineto the famousLighthouseHoodooinPalo DuroCanyon,TX.

LOOKING BACK January

QUOTE OF NOTE

“If a cluttered desk is the sign of a cluttered mind, then what is an empty desk a sign of?

Albert Einstein

LOCAL HISTORY

In January 1959 an ordinance was passed by the city council setting the salary of the mayor at $12.00 a year, aldermen at $6.00 per year and marshal at $600.00 per year.

TEXAS HISTORY

On January 25, 1839, the Republic of Texas Congress adopted the Texas coat of arms -- a white star of five points on an azure ground encircled by olive and live oak branches. The national seal bore these arms encircled by the words Republic of Texas. In 1845 the designation was altered from Republic to State.

IMPORTANT SCHERTZ CONTACT INFO

Schertz City Council

Mayor:

Ralph Gutierrez (210) 619-1040

ralphgutierrez@schertz.com

Council Members: Mark Davis (210) 376-9141

markdavis@schertz.com

Rosemary Scott (210) 419-8472

rscott@schertz.com

Scott Larson (210) 376-9835

scottlarson@schertz.com

Michael Dahle (210) 419-9337

mdahle@schertz.com

David Scagliola (830) 606-1130

davidscagliola@schertz.com

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

Tim Brown (210) 608-2381

timbrown@schertz.com

City Departments:

City of Schertz (210) 619-1000

Animal Control (210) 619-1550

Business/Utilities (210) 619-1100

City Manager (210) 619-1000

City Secretary (210) 619-1030

Civic Center (210) 619-1600

Customer Care/311 (210) 619-1000

Economic Development (210) 619-1070

EMS (non-emergency) (210) 619-1400

Fire (non-emergency) (210) 619-1300

Human Resources (210) 619-1150

Information Technology (210) 619-1180

Inspections (210) 619-1750

Marshal Services (210) 619-1650

Municipal Court (210) 619-1500

Parks & Recreation (210) 619-1850

Planning & Zoning (210) 619-1780

Police (non-emergency) (210) 619-1274

Police Records (210) 619-1200

Public Affairs (210) 619-1630

Public Library (210) 619-1700

Public Works (210) 619-1800

Records (210) 619-1030

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

PUBLIC AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT

SCHERTZ, TEXAS 78154