June 2023

SCHERTZ SCHERTZ

SCHERTZ, TEXAS JUNE 2023

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 Chief

EDITORIAL TEAM

Linda Klepper Public Affairs Director

Devan Christensen Communications Manager

Caanon Gibbons Marketing & Communications Specialist

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Devan Christensen, Linda Klepper, Caanon Gibbons, Cassie Paddock, Lizzi Bertoia, Anna Kraft, Jaime Cline, 2022-2023 Clemens High School

History Club, Holly Malish, Lisa Loftus, Keith Wolf

CONTRIBUTING

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Devan Christensen, Caanon Gibbons, Anna Kraft, Richard Woody, Stacey

Lovett, Domingo J Muñoz Jr./Muñillar

Photography

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.

If

CELEBRATE WITH US

Join the City of Schertz for the 47th Annual 4th of July Jubilee Celebration!

Begin the day with the ‘Let Freedom Run’ 5k at 9:15 a.m. followed by the patriotic parade at 9:30 a.m. The 2023 parade theme is “Stars and Stripes”. Businesses, individuals, municipalities, and non-profit groups are encouraged to participate. Registration is now open for the 5K and parade on Schertz.com/Jubilee.

After the 5K and parade, head over to Thulemeyer Park for the kid’s carnival featuring more than a dozen rides, carnival games, and food selections. The carnival is open from 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. Tickets will be sold at the carnival only. Cash/credit cards accepted.

Come out to Pickrell and Thulemeyer Parks at 5 p.m. for an evening of festival food vendors, Family Zone activities, and live music. Scheduled to appear is Groove Knight, a local band offering a variety of music that will have you dancing and singing all night! The evening will conclude with the Fireworks Spectacular kicking off at 9:15 p.m. Make sure to bring your lawn chairs and blankets to relax and enjoy the show. Mobile Food Vendors interested in participating can apply at Schertz.com/jubilee.

Float & Fireworks

The ‘Coolest’ seat in the house will be in Pickrell Park Pool during the 4th of July Jubilee Celebration and Fireworks Spectacular. The pool will open from 6 – 10 p.m. for ‘Float & Fireworks’. Capacity is limited and tickets must be purchased for entry. No tickets will be sold on the day of the event. Tickets on sale now at Schertz.com/Jubilee.

HEADLINES CITY

Schertz Citizens

Police Academy 2023 Graduating Class

Election Filing

Filing for Schertz City Council in the November 7, 2023, General Election begins July 22, 2023.

The City of Schertz will be holding its General Election on November 7, 2023, for the purpose of electing Council Members in Place 3, Place 4, and Place 5 for a three-year term, November 2023 to November 2026.

Any City of Schertz resident desiring to have his or her name on the Official Ballot shall file with the City Secretary an application in writing in the form prescribed by the Texas Election Code declaring themselves a candidate. The filing date is no sooner than Saturday, July 22, 2023, and no later than 5 p.m. Monday, August 21, 2023. Completed applications with filing fee will be accepted by the City Secretary’s Office from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, July 24, 2023 –August 21, 2023.

Qualifications for candidacy include the following: must have attained the age of eighteen or older on the first day of the term of office for which elected, be a registered voter of the City of Schertz, and have been a resident of the City of Schertz for at least twelve consecutive months immediately preceding the deadline for filing for an application for a place on the ballot.

Each year, the Schertz Police Department offers a free Citizens Police Academy. This is a 10-week course that gives our community a chance to learn more about the police department. On March 2, our 2023 Class began their journey with the department. They learned about the command structure, use of force, laws and city ordinances, traffic stops, radar/lidar, SWAT, Communications, Investigations, and more.

On May 11, 2023, twenty-two community members graduated from the Citizens Police Academy. Once they complete the course, the graduates are eligible to join the Schertz Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association, a group of volunteers that assists the police department with programs and community events. If you are interested in attending our next Citizens Police Academy, keep watching our social media pages or Schertz Magazine for an upcoming class.

If you are interested in attending our next Citizens Police Academy, keep watching our social media pages or Schertz Magazine for an upcoming class.

New City Council Meeting Schedule

At the May 9, Schertz City Council Meeting, an ordinance was approved to modify the number of City Council meeting occurrences from three times per month to two times per month. Schertz City Council Meetings will now only be held on the first and third Tuesdays of each month. However, due to holidays or other circumstances, special called meetings may be held.

For more information go to Schertz.com/ CityCouncil

2022 Drinking Water Quality Report Available in July

The City of Schertz Water Department is pleased to report that testing in accordance with EPA and TCEQ guidelines has shown that our drinking water is safe and meets or exceeds all federal and state requirements.

The City of Schertz will no longer mail printed copies of the report to all of our customers. If, however, you would like a hard copy of the report, please email us at customercare@schertz. com. Please provide your name and address and a copy of the report will be sent to you. If you prefer, you may complete the form below and mail it in to receive a copy of the report.

PLEASE MAIL ME A COPY OF THE 2022 WATER QUALITY REPORT!

First and Last Name: ________________________________________________________

Address:__________________________ City: _________ State: _____ Zip Code: _______

Email Address: _____________________________________________________________

Please

To view the report visit Schertz.com/waterqualityreport

Schertz Welcomes Scott Wayman as Executive Director of Economic Development

He finished up the first part of his career with the City of Live Oak in 2021 and worked for a year in retirement, managing the BulverdeSpring Branch Economic Development Foundation. He is married to his wife Diane and has a daughter who has followed him into the City Management profession.

Wayman commented, “Schertz is the reason that I came to Texas. My aunt owned a business on FM 78 for many years and I would come down and visit as a kid. Working in the northeast area of San Antonio, Schertz has always been the big brother to the

region, and I am excited to have the opportunity to work with the city’s leadership on future developments.”

In his new role, Wayman will be responsible for leading the efforts to attract new businesses to Schertz, supporting the growth and expansion of existing businesses, and creating job opportunities in the community. He will work closely with city leaders, community partners, and stakeholders to help our community achieve economic development goals.

“Scott brings a wealth of experience to the role and has a proven track record of success. I am confident that his expertise and passion for economic development will help us achieve our goals and I look forward to working with him to build a prosperous future for Schertz,” stated City Manager, Steve Williams.

Wayman officially joined the City of Schertz as the Executive Director of Economic Development on Monday, May 8, 2023.

Wayman brings over 20 years of extensive knowledge and expertise in economic development and local government and will bring tremendous value to the Schertz community.

Wayman has worked in the San Antonio region for 37 years, first starting out as a police officer for the City of Live Oak and going on to serve as Assistant City Manager and City Manager of Live Oak.

THE CITY OF SCHERTZ IS EXCITED TO ANNOUNCE THE APPOINTMENT OF SCOTT WAYMAN AS ITS NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT.

Scott brings a wealth of experience to the role and has a proven track record of success. I am confident that his expertise and passion for economic development will help us achieve our goals.

Schertz EMS New Yellow Dot Program Could Save Lives

By JAIME CLINE

Amy Anderson is a paramedic at Schertz EMS and understands how pivotal the right medical information can be at the scene of an accident or emergency event.

“I was reviewing social media and I saw a video about a program that was created to help share medical information with first responders and I was intrigued. Having a patient’s medical history, current medication, and a clear way to communicate with first responders during a critical event can drastically change a patient’s treatment plan,” she shares.

Anderson began researching the program known as “Yellow Dot” with support of her supervisor to initiate the program locally. She researched and reached out to several of the organizations in other states to understand the program scope and parameters.

The program entails yellow “dot” stickers that are placed on the back windshields of vehicles to alert first responders to serious medical conditions, chronic conditions, and other acute health issues of the passengers inside. First responders are taught to locate a yellow pamphlet in

MINUTES MATTER— ESPECIALLY WHEN YOU’RE RESPONDING TO AN EMERGENCY SITUATION.

the glove box that contains a photo, the passenger’s applicable medical history, and any current medications. People with serious health conditions are encouraged to enroll in the program for free.

“I know what it’s like to arrive at those calls and not have any medical background on the person we’re trying to treat. It’s important to have a mechanism to serve people with special needs, the elderly, or communication barriers due to health conditions. This program would allow us continuity of care, effectiveness and getting the best treatment possible for our patients. I knew what a value this program could bring to our area and worked quickly to get it approved.”

Anderson worked diligently to spread the word—posting on the city’s Facebook page, meeting with local organizations, talking to other first responders, and doing local news interviews.

“Signing up for the program is really easy. People can schedule an appointment with me, and they normally only take about 20-30 mins. I’ll take a quick picture of the person enrolling into the Yellow Dot Program which gives us the ability to distinguish who’s in the vehicle, and then we add that to the chart. We review current diagnosis, current medications, and any past surgeries to be included in your chart. We place the sticker on back window of your vehicle in its designated spot, and then I place the pamphlets in the glove compartment of the vehicle—we include several copies in the event we need to share with an attending doctor. I always close the appointment with the reminder that I

will follow up in 6 months to update their chart and urge them to call me back if anything changes prior to that,” explains Anderson.

“We had an EMS call today where the person was part of the Yellow Dot Program and the information that was provided at the scene was vital. It’s a testament to how important this program is and what a benefit it can be for our community—and our first responders,” she shares.

That being said, continued updates are key to the program’s success.

“We need to make sure that we are actively updating the patient’s chart with any changes to their medication or medical history which is why I make sure to schedule a follow up call every 6 months. A lot can happen in 6 months, so we want to make sure that we have the most current information.”

“Our next step for the program would be to offer it to homes instead of just vehicles. I’d love to see it in independent living facilities and then it would bring such a benefit and peace of mind to our elderly community,” shares Anderson.

Interested in the Yellow Dot Program? The program is open to people of all ages with different medical conditions within all of our response areas. *Schertz, Cibolo, Universal City, Selma, Live Oak, Marion, Santa Clara, and parts of Comal County. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact MIH Paramedic Amy Anderson at (210) 619-1430 or email at aanderson@schertz.com.

Having a patient’s medical history, current medication, and a clear way to communicate with first responders during a critical event can drastically change a patient’s treatment plan.

Samuel Clemens High School: A Schertz Historic Landmark

SAMUEL CLEMENS HIGH SCHOOL RECENTLY APPLIED AND ACHIEVED LANDMARK DESIGNATION FOR THEIR SCHOOL THROUGH THE SCHERTZ HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMITTEE (SHPC).

By 2022-2023 SAMUEL CLEMENS HISTORY CLUB

This designation recognizes the cultural significance of the high school within the community and the enormous impact it has, through its teachers and mentor, on the students as they embark on their journey of adulthood. 2023 marks the 55th year of Samuel Clemens High School at their present location on Elbel Road. As the name suggests, the land on which the high school sits was once a farm owned by the Elbel family. The History Club students, under the tutelage of Marc Thornton, sponsor, and Janet Gensheimer, co-sponsor, researched the decade — 1968 to 1978, of SCHS at its "new" location. Below you will read the collaborative effort of these students and for the seniors, as they are ready to spread their wings and be a "Buffalo Forever"!

One of the hallmarks of American society is the development of the modern community. Since its founding in the 20th century, the City of Schertz has evolved into such an example.

Much of this development is due to the City’s infrastructure—including public works, roads, postal services, and of course, schools. Samuel Clemens High School has evolved from a five-room building on Main Street—known at the time as Schertz Cibolo School, to the massive complex it is today on Elbel Road.

Since its construction in 1967, Samuel Clemens has had a major impact on this community in diverse ways that go beyond the traditional reading, writing, and arithmetic. Samuel Clemens High School has impacted the Schertz, Cibolo, and Universal City communities by producing graduates that have gone on to be successful in sports, media, culinary, medical services, military service, education, and business. Over the years, Clemens has given back to the

community by performing community services and hosting regional events that highlight accomplishments of the city. Most of all, Samuel Clemens High School was a product of the community and throughout the years, the community is now a product of Samuel Clemens High School.

The Samuel Clemens History Club of 2022/2023 took on the task of researching the history and contributions of Clemens. The club focused on the first ten years of Samuel Clemens High School and its impact on the community during that period of time.

“For it is within a school that we find many areas and decisions in which we each participate. These areas could not function without the school or its members, and the school wouldn’t be able to operate without them.” (1969 yearbook)

This quote from the 1969 yearbook perfectly summarizes the worth of Samuel Clemens and its students. The school and the community share a symbiotic relationship.

In the 1967/1968 yearbook, the iconic “Buffalo” was selected to be the symbol and mascot of Samuel Clemens High School. Even through naming the school, special attention was given to acknowledge the historical significance of the surrounding area. The 1970 yearbook stated that, “...district enrollment increased from 1,500 to 3,000.” This data shows that as the community grew, Clemens grew to meet the demands of population growth.

“Every student who has or ever will graduate from SCHS forms a part of a never-ending picture that represents a school. Not just a building or a name, but a school— with its ups and downs, its faults and merits, its ideals, goals, traditions, and hopes.” (1968 yearbook)

Even as early as the first year of the school, students realized that the legacy of Clemens is that it represents the community and wherever the graduates go, they represent Clemens. Within just the first decade, Clemens was represented at the state level. According to the 1979 yearbook, AFJROTC represented Clemens by hosting “the first statewide aerospace symposium”. Clemens eventually evolved into a destination for other organizations and events. Even in Clemens’ early years, the school saw the value in supporting the community and community service became a core value. In the 1972 yearbook, one entry stated that the National Honor Society of Clemens gave out a turkey at Thanksgiving and a basket of food at Christmas to needy families in the area. Eventually, other Clemens organizations and clubs began to support the community, such as, ”Heath Occupation collected toys for children, and FCA collected gifts for the needy,” according to the 1978 yearbook. Clemens NHS valued community service to the degree that it is now a requirement for participation in the program, as the 1979 yearbook stated, “the national honors society sponsored a food and clothing drive for the needy”.

ONCE A BUFF, ALWAYS A BUFF

Samuel Clemens High School is a historic landmark for the City of Schertz, Texas. This community would not be the community it is without the contribution of the school, and without the community, Clemens would not have had the impact on the students, residents, businesses, and the legacy that is the Mighty Buffaloes.

RESEARCHERS

■ Elysia Salazar

■ Elisa Scott

■ Madison Kuhlmann

■ Madison Jenkins

■ James Hoffer

■ Angelica Plascencia

■ Brenda Plascencia

■ Gray Tassey

Lead by History Club Marc Anthony Thornton, sponsor, and Janet Gensheimer, co-sponsor

Every student who has or ever will graduate from SCHS forms a part of a never-ending picture that represents a school.

HAPPENING THIS MONTH in Schertz

LIBRARY

Read Before Bookstore Summer Book Sale

Lego Lab (5+)

Kidney Warriors Matter Support Group for Dialysis Patients

Sunday Afternoon Meditation for Adults

Schertz Area Genealogists Meeting

June 2 & 3 @ 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. / LPR

June 3 @ 10:15 – 11:15 a.m. / Children’s Library

June 3 @ 2 p.m. / LMR 1

June 4 @ 1 p.m. / LPR

June 6 @ 6:30 p.m. / LMR1

Open Mic Poetry for Adults June 8 @ 6:30 p.m. / LMR1

iGrow Girl (8 – 11 yrs.)

Fractions (All ages)

Popsicles and Pals

Scavenger Hunt

PARKS

Battle of the Bots: Tournaments of Champions (iCode)

Music & Movies in the Park: A League of Their Own

Nature Discovery Series

Ed-ZOO-Cation

Lacrosse Camp (Skyhawks)

Music & Movies in the Park: Hotel Transylvania 3

Owl Prowl Night Hike

Pickleball Open Play

June 5 – 9 @ 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. / Schertz Community Center

June 9 @ 7 p.m. / Johnnie McDow Sports Complex

June 10 @ 9:30 a.m. /

Crescent Bend Nature Park

June 17 @ 10 a.m. /

Crescent Bend Nature Park

June 19 – 23 @ 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. / Schertz Soccer Complex

June 24 @ 7 p.m. / Pickrell Park Pool

June 25 @ 8:30 p.m. /

Crescent Bend Nature Park

Tues @ 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. / Pickrell Park Large Pavilion

Wild Adaptations Thurs @ 9 – 11 a.m., June 8 – 29 / North Center

Parent & Me Fri @ 9 – 10 a.m., June 2 – 30 / North Center (no class June 16)

June 10 @ 10:15 – 11:15 a.m. / LMR2

June 10 @ 2 – 3:30 p.m. / LMR2

June 14 @ 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. / Pickrell Park

Puzzle Pandemonium June 15 @ 6 p.m. / LMR 1

Game On! June 17 @ 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. / LPR

iGrow Girl (12 – 15 yrs.)

Chronic Kidney Disease Self-Care Management 101

June 24 @ 10:15 – 11:15 a.m. / LMR2

June 24 @ 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. / LMR1

Paper Crafting Crop June 25 @ 12 – 5 p.m. / LPR

Chalk the Block with Kindness

Medicare 101 Presentation

June 28 @ 11:30 a.m. / Meet at the Schertz Public Library

June 29 @ 6 p.m. / LMR1

Senior Center Tech Help Second Mon @ 10 – 11 a.m. / Schertz Sr. Center

Teen Tuesdays (13 – 18 yrs.) Tues @ 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. / LPR

Library Quilt Bee Second and Fourth Tues and third Sat / LMR1 (Time varies, check online)

Toddler Storytime (20 months – 3yrs.)

Tues & Wed @ 10:15 – 10:45 a.m. / Thurs @ 11 – 11:30 a.m. / LPR

Preschool Storytime (3 – 6 yrs.) Tues & Wed, @ 11 – 11:45 a.m. / LPR

Walk-in Tech Help Wed @ 6:30 p.m. / LMR1

Crafternoon (Families) Wed @ 2 – 3 p.m. / LPR

Power Hour with Geared Fitness for Adults Thurs @ 1 p.m. / LPR

Baby & Me Storytime (Birth – 24 months) Thurs @ 10:15 – 10:45 a.m. / LPR

* Library spice kits for adults will be available the first week of June featuring cumin

** A membership to the Schertz Senior Center is required to attend tech help at the Senior Center LPR: Library Program Room LMR: Library Meeting Room

POOL SEASON IS HERE

ADMISSION PRICES

• Child 2 and Under: FREE

• Per Person: $2

• All Day Entry (in and out permitted): $3

PICKRELL PARK POOL

Hours of Operations: Tuesday – Sunday, 12 – 7 p.m.

(Closed Mondays for Maintenance)

For more information contact the Schertz Family YMCA at (210) 419-9439.

* Daycares/schools must call ahead

SEASON PASS RATES:

Schertz Residents

Individual $40

2 Members $50

3 Members $60

4 Members $70

5 Members $80

6 Members $90

*Non-resident season passes are an additional $30

Battle Of The Bots: Tournaments of Champions (iCode)

Ages: 6 – 9 | June 5 – 9 | 8 a.m.- 12 p.m. | $200 | Schertz Community Center

Let the battle begin! Calling all robot masters. Campers will team up to learn to design and build their own motorized battle robots. Using the fundamentals of mechanical engineering, students will try to flip, push, pull or smash their opponent’s battle. Campers will put their skills to the test and see who can build the best battle bot and the designer of the “last robot standing” for each round will be the winner.”

Lacrosse (Skyhawks)

Age: 6 – 8 & 8 – 12 | June 19 – 23 | 9 a.m.-12 p.m. | $169 per child | Schertz Soccer Complex

Athletes will learn the fundamentals of stick handling, cradling, passing and shooting in a fun, non-checking environment. All equipment is provided, but participants are welcome to bring their own lacrosse stick. Participants are not required to wear goggles, a helmet, or gloves due to the use of soft lacrosse balls and Skyhawks staff ensuring non-checking, non-contact play. Every participant receives a free Skyhawks shirt.

community project, it’s free to place your information on our Volunteer Schertz list! Visit Schertz.com/volunteer for more information.

Volunteering time and talents is a great way to give to the community, build selfesteem, share your skills, and make a positive impact in others’ lives. A variety of opportunities are available in the local area. Visit Schertz.com/Volunteer to sign up today.

Upcoming Opportunities

June 17 Ed-ZOO-Cation

June 30 Project Flagline Set Up

July 4 Jubilee Parade

July 4 Jubilee Event

July 6 Project Flagline Take Down

Owl Prowl

Fourth Sunday of the Month June-Sept | 8:30 p.m. | FREE | Crescent Bend

Nature Park

For all the night owls trying to beat the Texas heat, come take a nighttime stroll with our Guadalupe Master Naturalists and see which animals come out at night. Inspired by the interests and observations of those who attend, the naturalists will 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. Pre-registration is encouraged, but not required. Register at schertz.com. Meet at the first parking lot near the restroom building and trailhead.

Volunteer Schertz

Does your group/organization have a need for volunteers? Complete the volunteer request form and information on your organization’s volunteer opportunities. Whether you are a non-profit recruiting large numbers of volunteers or an individual looking for a few extra hands or working on a

Connect with us on social media

CityofSchertz or cityofschertzparksandrecreation

Post a pic @SchertzParksandRec

Use #SchertzParksandRec

Summer Reading Experience

We invite everyone to participate in the Summer Reading Experience at the Schertz Public Library. Registration is open. This summer you can read, make, and explore to earn prizes. Read anything you want, from books to magazines to audiobooks. You can read library books, your own personal books, or any combination. Once you have completed the reading experience log, bring it to the library and pick up your summer reading experience t-shirt (while supplies last). We are planning a calendar full of programs, events, and activities that are enjoyable for all ages. Check out our online calendar to see what we have going on.

Read Before Bookstore Summer Book Sale Coming Soon!

The Read Before Bookstore will be holding their Summer Book Sale on Friday, June 2 and Saturday, June 3 from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. both days. Bags will be provided and cost $5 per bag. The book sale will be held in the Library Program Room located inside the Children’s Library.

iGrow Girl Workshop

Girls (ages 8 – 11 and 12 – 15 yrs.) and your MOM or MOM-like figure are invited to a workshop presented by Karen Howard Lee of iGrow Girl. iGrow Girl provides programs and resources for moms and their daughters that strengthen mother/daughter bonds and encourage health and wellness. Join us to learn how to support life transitions, how to initiate conversations, how to build deeper relationships, about iGrow Girl programs and resources, and to play a fun relationship building game. Girls 8 –11 yrs. are invited to join us on Saturday, June 10, and girls 12 – 15 yrs. are invited to join us on Saturday, June 24. Registration required, check the online calendar for more details.

One-on-One Tech Help

Would you like to get personalized oneon-one technology assistance? What about help with navigating online library resources? Starting this month, you can sign up for a free 30-minute private tech help session with a librarian. Visit schertzlibrary.org or call us at 210-6191700 for more information.

Popsicles and Pals Scavenger Hunt @ Pickrell Park

The library will host its second summer reading scavenger hunt at Pickrell Park on Wednesday, June 14 from 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. There will be various puzzles and challenges set up throughout the park for participants to decode and complete. After the scavenger hunt, stop by Cori Jean Ice Cream’s trailer located near the large pavilion to get a complimentary treat. Invite a friend to join you for the library’s Popsicles and Pals Scavenger Hunt.

Puzzle Pandemonium

Families or small groups of (3-5) will work together to compete against other groups to see who can assemble the same 300-piece jigsaw puzzle the fastest. Puzzles are relaxing and facilitate great conversations for all ages. Puzzle Pandemonium will be held on Thursday, June 15 from 6 – 8 p.m. Pre-registration not required.

Chalk the Block with Kindness

Help us spread kindness in our community this summer! Join us at the library on Wednesday, June 28th at 11:30 a.m. to participate in our community kindness sidewalk chalk event. The library will have a list of designated locations, as well as kits containing all the supplies that will be needed. Groups will then visit their assigned location and create encouraging messages/drawings outside with sidewalk chalk. This program is open to all ages youth-adult and registration is not required.

Instagram.com/SchertzPublicLibrary

Twitter.com/SchertzLibrary

FIREWORKS

The Schertz Fire Department reminds residents that fireworks are prohibited inside the city limits of Schertz. City Code of Ordinances 30.64 prohibits the sale, use, or possession of fireworks in the City. If you are unsure whether you reside within the city limits of Schertz you can go to the Interactive Map on Schertz.com and type in your address.

For more information, call the Fire Department at (210) 619-1300.

City Updates

A Celebration, Snow Cone Style

In April 2022, construction began on Tri County Parkway, the major thoroughfare collector that supports primary job employers and commercial businesses within the Schertz industrial park. The $6-million reconstruction effort was funded by the Schertz Economic Development Corporation as part of ongoing business retention efforts and continued reinvestment in the industrial park. The project replaced the existing pavement section with a significantly stronger pavement section designed for the truck traffic using the

street. In addition, the sanitary sewer lines from FM 3009 to Lookout and on Lookout from Tri-County to Doerr were replaced and upsized to better serve the area. All of these improvements will strengthen the City’s ability to create and retain critical businesses in that very valuable portion of our City.

The project was originally expected to last 5 months but due to unforeseen circumstances that happened on numerous occasions, the project lasted much longer. Some of the major delays in the project stemmed from inclement

weather patterns during the project construction. Furthermore, the trenches dug for the sanitary sewer upgrade were not as stable as anticipated. Some sections of the trenches encountered groundwater, which caused more instability. The instability created additional work by the contractor. This led to the sewer line installation taking longer than anticipated. Additionally, a shortage of cement caused the project to switch from cement treatment to lime treatment of the subgrade soils. While this switch did not increase the cost of the project, it did add additional time to the construction effort.

One of the last items in the project included the removal of the large monument sign at the I-35 intersection and the elimination of the overgrown landscaping to create a cleaner entrance to the business park.

The construction itself posed hardship to the businesses along Lookout Rd and the delays prolonged the discomfort such as displaced 18-wheeler traffic, re-routing of traffic in the construction area, changing access to individual sites, and dust from construction. As part of the Schertz Economic Development Corporation’s business engagement efforts, an idea emerged to provide the employers and their employees on Tri County Parkway a snow cone celebration as a way of saying “thank you” for their enduring patience. Over two days, 27 businesses and over 2,000 employees participated in the event.

While we are pleased to have completed this major project, this is not the only effort underway in the business park. Previously, the City of Schertz reconstructed the section of Tri-County between IH-35 and Corridor Parkway and the EDC has provided funding to reconstruct Lookout Rd between Doerr and Schertz Parkway. All of these efforts demonstrate that we are sincerely committed to making the traffic in and around this key commercial area safe and attractive.

BE PREPARED FOR A HURRICANE

Threats from hurricanes include powerful winds, heavy rainfall, storm surges, coastal and inland flooding, rip currents, tornadoes, and landslides.

Hurricanes are massive storm systems that form over warm ocean waters and move toward land. The Atlantic hurricane season runs June 1 to November 30. The Pacific hurricane season runs May 15 to November 30.

IF YOU ARE UNDER A HURRICANE WARNING, FIND SAFE SHELTER RIGHT AWAY

Stay Safe This Summer

With warmer summer months approaching, the Schertz EMS Community Health Team would like to offer some summer pool and outdoor safety tips to keep you safe and protected.

Young children and inexperienced swimmers should wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket that is correct for their size and weight. If you have a pool, secure it with appropriate barriers and keep the deck around the pool clear of objects. Many children who drown in home pools were out of sight for less than five minutes and in the care of one or both parents at the time. According to the American Red Cross, drownings are responsible for more deaths among children ages one to four than any other cause except birth defects.

Planning on being outdoors this summer? Remember to protect your skin, limit the amount of direct sunlight you receive, and wear sunscreen with a protection factor of at least SPF15. Also, don’t let your beautiful summer day be ruined by those pesky bugs, apply insect repellant or use a deterrent to help limit your chances of being bitten. The current AAP and CDC recommendation

for children older than 2 months of age is to use 10% to 30% DEET. DEET should not be used on children younger than 2 months of age. The effectiveness is similar for 10% to 30% DEET, but the duration of effect varies. 10% DEET provides protection for about 2 hours, and 30% protects for about 5 hours. Choose the lowest concentration that will provide the required length of protection. Citronella can also help keep those pesky bugs away by using a citronella candle, clip-on device, or homemade bug repellant.

Also, be careful of snakes and other reptiles who might be hiding under piles of brush, logs, or playground furniture to stay cool as the weather warms. Wear boots or shoes and pants while walking through tall grass, keep your eyes open for movement in the grass, and remove debris from around your home. We hope everyone stays safe and has a wonderful summer!

Around the Community

RACAP Taking Applications for Back-ToSchool Program

The Randolph Area Christian Assistance Program (RACAP) will begin accepting applications for the Back-To-School Program on July 10, 2023. Applications will be accepted from families in need of help with school supplies because of limited or no income, who are at or below the Federal Poverty Guidelines. The deadline to apply for the Back-ToSchool Program is August 11, 2023.

RACAP welcomes organizations, businesses, groups, or individuals who

would like to participate by donating school supplies or money. If you would like to donate school supplies, contact RACAP at racap@att.net to receive a list of the supplies needed. This help is greatly needed and much appreciated. Donations may be dropped by the RACAP office or mailed to 307 Pfeil St, Schertz TX 78154.

Applicants for assistance must live in the following zip codes: 78108, 78109, 78132, 78148, 78154, 78247, Live Oak 78233, or 78266.

Happy 40th Birthday RACAP!

On May 2, 2023, the Randolph Area Christian Assistance Program (RACAP) celebrated their 40th anniversary of assisting families in the community. RACAP opened its doors on May 2, 1983. Father Robert Cresy was the candle under the bushel basket. He had the vision, light, passion and drive to keep it going until they had the pantry set up. Several community leaders and church clergy joined him and together they established RACAP with the goal to meet the needs of low income people in the community. They felt a central location was necessary to both funnel sources and to refer needy people where records could be kept to deter abuse of the system. The building that RACAP is housed in is generously provided by The Schertz Housing Authority rent-free. RACAP started out with 9 member churches and $600 in their bank account to help purchase food items that were needed in order to assist families with their groceries. In November 1983, a motion was made to include Rental and Utility Assistance. At the time, a $25.00 limit was made for each family. By May 1984, RACAP had served 250 families.

Sadly, in October 1998, there was a terrible flood in the area, and the beloved building was a victim of that terrible rain. Flood repairs were made and RACAP began operating from Schertz Baptist Church. RACAP reopened their doors around 6 months later and has been serving families ever since.

RACAP has continued to grow and blossom throughout the years and now has 36 member churches and assists families in 9 different zip codes. In 2022, they served 1,150 clients which totaled 3,056 people. They handed out $127,135.46 in grocery

Those interested in helping or are in need of help may contact RACAP at 307 Pfeil, Schertz, Monday thru Friday, 1 – 3 p.m. or call (210) 6581613 between those times. Please call if you have any questions.

assistance and paid out $106,482.27 in rental assistance, $44,482.98 in utility assistance and $3,354.07 towards pending prescription fees. They host several seasonal programs including the Back- to- School Supply Program, Thanksgiving Meal Basket Program, and the Christmas Meal Basket Program.

RACAP would like to thank the community for the continued generosity throughout their 40 years of serving area residents.

For more information on RACAP go to RACAP.org.

BOAT, RV, CLIMATE CONTROL, AND SELF STORAGE FACILITY

PROPANE FILLING

DUMP STATION

AIR AND WATER

INSULATED ROOFS

EXTRA SECURITY LIGHTING

• Climate Control (10x10 and 10x15)

Around the Community

Randolph Masonic Lodge AF&AM #126 Presents Scholarships to Area Students

On April 17, the Masons of Randolph Masonic Lodge AF&AM #1268 honored three deserving students with a check for $1,000 each to go towards their continuing education. In addition to receiving scholarship funds, Schertz Bank and Trust awarded a gift card to each student

and a high school mentor. Each year we work with local high school counselors to find students that emulate personal and scholastic excellence. Master of Ceremonies, Greg Johnston, assisted by the Worshipful Master, Dillon Henke, presented the awards to:

■ Nicholas Betts from Steele High School

■ Brian Caloca from Veterans Memorial High School

■ Kevin Wu from Veterans Memorial High School

Each student nominated a mentor for their inspiration and leadership throughout their educational journey:

■ Melissa Rountree from Steele High School

■ Heather Morgan from Veterans Memorial High School

The Lamar Awards Program began in 1988 and is officially known as “The Lamar Award of Excellence for Personal Achievement.” It was named in honor of Bro. Mirabeau B. Lamar, who served as a colonel at the Battle of San Jacinto. Randolph Masonic Lodge, founded in 1933, has awarded over 147 students and 142 educators this award since 1988.

Congratulations to these students and their mentors for this honor!

Bring

Brian and Marilyn Jergens took their Schertz Magazine all the way to Costa Maya, Mexico in celebration of their 35th wedding anniversary!

Cynethia Nichols travelled to Valdosta, Georgia and packed her Schertz Magazine for the trip.

Tara Foley travelled to Antartica and made sure her Schertz Magazine also made the trip!

Tina and Ashley Giambernardi took their Schertz Magazine and travelled to Holland, Michigan.

LOOKING BACK Schertz Texas

Something To Think About . . .

“In the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It is the life in your years.”

Abraham Lincoln

Schertz History

The neighborhood just south of Highway 78 at First Street became the first residential placement. The 8 square blocks of that small neighborhood reflect the names of several of the town’s most prominent early citizens - Wuest Street (Carol and Alvina), Lee Street (Robert E. Lee Vordenbaum), and Dowman Street (Colonel Robert Dowman). The neighborhood was the home of O. G. Wiederstein, a legendary educator who has an elementary school (Cibolo) and streets (Cibolo and Schertz) named after him. The Ackermann family, to include the town’s first Marshal and Police Chief, had homes in the neighborhood.

The first church in the community (Methodist) was built and still stands in the neighborhood. Banners have been

erected designating the neighborhood as a Schertz “Heritage Neighborhood.”

Texas History

On this day in 1836, Samuel Colt, of Hartford, Connecticut, patented the Colt revolver. This invention, along with windmills and barbed wire, brought order to the Great Plains.  It was eventually produced in numerous models, the most famous being that of 1871. In 1839, the Republic of Texas ordered 180 of the .36 caliber holster models for the Texas Navy. The Texas Rangers gave the Colt revolver its reputation as a weapon ideally suited for mounted combat. Frederick Law Olmsted remarked that “there were probably as many revolvers in Texas as there were males.”

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.

Official City Meetings

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