BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE CITY OF SCHERTZ, TEXAS
SCHERTZ
TABLE OF CONTENTS
06 City Headlines
10 Parks & Recreation
14 Library
City Council
Ralph Gutierrez Mayor
Mark Davis Councilmember
Rosemary Scott Councilmember
Jill Whittaker 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
Adrian Perez Executive Director
Sarah Gonzalez Assistant to the City Manager
Mission
Leading, improving, and serving a livable, sustainable, and financially sound community.
Vision
Community. Service. Opportunity.
Core Values
Treat others the way you would want to be treated. Do the right thing. 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 over 42,000 residents.
Today, Schertz Magazine is the leading publication in the Tri-County area with a circulation of 16,000 copies; including 14,000+ 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 15,000+ 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.
28 Features
36 Around the Community
43 Calendar
FEATURES
28
Spread
CITY MANAGER FROM THE DESK OF THE
Hello Schertz residents, I hope you have gotten through the cold temperatures in February, and now we can look forward to warmer weather and a nice spring season. This month’s magazine has many fine articles in it, and I would like to point out a few highlights. Our COVID-19 vaccine clinics are continuing, which began in January. I sincerely hope you will be able to get a vaccine soon if you have not already done so. We have refined and revised our processes both for appointments and for the clinics themselves. Our desire is to make this process “user friendly” and while I know we have had some technical problems we are doing our best to get as many people into our clinics as humanly possible. I know more vaccines are coming every week! If you have not gotten one yet, please keep trying and you will be successful. I would like to thank the many residents in our City who volunteered their time to help us execute these clinics. You have been instrumental in the success of our vaccine efforts and we could not have done it without you! In the magazine this month we are also recognizing five of our great employees for their milestone service pins of 20 years of service. We truly appreciate their loyalty and dedication to the City of Schertz.
In February, we also launched our “State of the City” video which highlights the achievements of the City during 2020. Of course, it was a very challenging year so this video gives a glimpse into the City’s response to the pandemic. You can view the video on our website or at YouTube. com/CityofSchertz. Another activity that is coming in March is our Kick Cancer 5k event. This event, held in honor of former City Councilman Tony Wilenchik will be held virtually this year. Registration is available at Schertz.com and all proceeds go to cancer research.
As we look ahead in the spring, we are planning our next major event which will be Movin on Main in April, but I will speak more of that in next month’s issue. I hope you have a wonderful March and spring break. Best wishes to all from the City of Schertz staff.
MARCH 2021
PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY Public Affairs Department
Linda Klepper
Public Affairs Director
Devan Christensen
Communications Manager
Madison Porras
Marketing & Communications Specialist
Contributing Writers
Linda Klepper, Devan Christensen, Madison Porras, Sarah Gonzalez, Jaime Cline, Mary Spence, Michelle Yang, Lizzi Bertoia
Contributing Photographers
Devan Christensen, Madison Porras, Stacey Lovett, Comal Pecan Farm, Emily Temple, Scarlett Moore, Jessica Davis, Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City ISD, Jackie Nitsche, Joseph Herczeg
Schertz Magazine is published monthly by the Public Affairs Department of the City of Schertz promoting city, community, and business activities. Our mailing address is 1400 Schertz Parkway, Schertz, Texas 78154. © City of Schertz, Texas
The editorial office of Schertz Magazine is at 1400 Schertz Parkway, Schertz, Texas 78154. Call (210) 619-1600 / 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) 619-1600.
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.comSchertz EMS Operations Manager Brandon Hill draws doses of COVID-19 vaccine during vaccine clinics.
We’re Playing, We’re Getting Fit, We’re Movin on Main!
This free active event invites you to bicycle, play, stretch, jump, get fit, and celebrate healthy living. Movin on Main encourages everyone to get out and move while building a stronger mind, body, and spirit.
Movin on Main welcomes everyone of all ages and abilities to participate.
Gather your friends and family to enjoy a variety of fun with healthy activities along the enclosed Main Street route, to include fitness class demonstrations and various local health and wellness vendors offering giveaways and educational materials. Several food and refreshment stations will be available to fuel your appetite and energize you for a day of highenergy excitement.
Movin on Main promises to promote health and wellness in a positive environment! Join the City of Schertz and the Schertz Family YMCA to tap into the power of fitness, get active, and bring our community together to get Movin on Main Street.
The Movin on Main event will be held Sunday, April 11, 2021 from 12:00 – 4:00 p.m. and is intended to get folks out biking, running, or strolling through the streets as a pedestrian on their own local thoroughfare. As a measure of bringing a stronger approach to health and wellness to Schertz, Movin on Main was implemented to help people get active in the streets and build our community to be a healthy and livable environment.
For more information, go TO Schertz.com/MovinonMain or follow the City of Schertz on Facebook.
2020 State of the City Video Launch
The City of Schertz launched its annual State of the City video at The Chamber’s monthly luncheon on Tuesday, February 23.
The 2020 State of the City video focuses on the challenges we all faced in 2020 and how it was a year when the true spirit of our community shined through in the most simple and everyday actions that our residents were taking. While 2020 changed our vision, the City is now looking through a new lens at 2021 with a fresh perspective and a renewed sense of purpose.
The City has produced State of the City videos since 2012 and since the beginning, the Public Affairs department has played
Councilmember Whittaker Sworn In as Mayor Pro Tem
City Secretary Brenda Dennis swore in City Councilmember Jill Whittaker as the new Mayor Pro Tem at the February 2 Schertz City Council Meeting. In the instance Mayor Gutierrez is unavailable, Mayor Pro Tem Whittaker will fill in his place. The Mayor Pro Tem serves a 6-month term after which the position is rotated to the next Councilmember.
an integral part in the production of the video as the project is overseen from start to finish by staff. Components of this process include writing the script, developing interview questions for those on camera, and assisting with the editing process.
Schertz continues to find this video is a great tool to deliver information while enhancing community engagement at the same time. To view this year’s State of the City video, go to Schertz.com or the City’s YouTube channel at YouTube.com/ cityofschertz.
PEPRALLY AND 5KRUN
AND 5K
The Kick Cancer Pep Rally and 5K Run, formerly the Wilenchik Walk for Life, invites the community to come together to rally in support of the many cancer research programs of the UT Health San Antonio MD Anderson Cancer Center (Mays Cancer Center).
In 2009, the City hosted the inaugural 5K event in honor of former Schertz City Councilmember Tony Wilenchik. Tony was diagnosed in 2006 with Stage-4 Leiomyosarcoma, a rare form of cancer. Tony’s determination to face the disease head-on helped the City create a fund-raising event to help research cures for cancer. Through 2019, more than $178,000.00 has been raised and donated to the UT Health San Antonio MD Anderson Cancer Center to aid in their research.
LET’S KICK CANCER TOGETHER!
Register online through CivicRec by going to Schertz.com/KickCancer or in person at the Parks & Recreation Office located at 10 Commercial Place, Bldg. 1. For more information call (210) 619-1850, or email parksandrec@schertz.com.
PRICING & INFO
1K Run - $10.00
13 and under
5K Run - $35.00
5-12, 13-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60+
Signs of Love - $20.00
Registered participants will receive a custom race medal, event t-shirt, print-at-home bib, print-at-home certificate, and other goodies if registered by February 15. Registration will remain open through March 15 but goodie bags are not guaranteed.
Race goodie bags will be available Friday, March 5, 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. or Saturday, March 6, 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. at the Schertz Parks & Recreation Office, 10 Commercial Place, Bldg 1.
Participants are encouraged to submit a photo of themselves in their event t-shirt and their race results by emailing parksandrec@schertz.com. A QR Code will also be available in the goodie bags to submit your results. Those with the fastest completion time in their age group will receive a prize. A photo of the distance and time must be submitted to qualify. Submissions will be accepted no later than March 15, 2021.
BENEFITTING
NATURE DISCOVERY SERIES 2021 SCHEDULE
The 2021 Nature Discovery Series Schedule is here! The program is designed for families with elementary-aged children, but older and younger siblings are welcome too! Texas Master Naturalist volunteers lead the themed programs held at 10:00 a.m. at Crescent Bend Nature Park, and the program is free. Pre-registration is required for all participants to ensure materials and activities are available. *Parents and adults must register themselves if they would like to stay with their child during the program.
SUBJECT TO CHANGE/CANCELLATION
Upcoming 2021 dates and topics are:
Mar 13 Discover What's Flying - Learn clues for looking at birds
April 10
May 8
June 12
July 10
Discover What's Buzzing and Blooming - Have fun with flowers, bees and butterflies
Discover The Forest – Every living thing plays a role in the forest
Discover Clues and Traces – Find what animals leave behind
Discover Horns and Thorns – Staying alive is tough
DYNAMIC DUOS COMPLETE THE MISSION
Over 30 heroes suited up and accepted the Dynamic Duos Scavenger Hunt mission through the weekend of February 5-7. Heroes were able to search for clues throughout local city parks, and after completing the scavenger hunt, families submitted their answers to be entered into a raffle. A special congratulations goes out to Draven S. for winning the raffle prize!
VOLUNTEERS CLEAN UP CRESCENT BEND
On January 30, Senior Jack Nitsche put together a group to spend the morning cleaning up Crescent Bend Nature Park. Jack is a member of the Steele High School National Honor Society and was able to receive community service hours for his time. The Schertz Parks and Recreation Department would like to give him a huge thank you to him and his crew!
If you are in need of completing community service hours, please reach out to us at (210) 619-1850 or email parksandrec@schertz.com.
Small Pavilions at Pickrell Park are open and available for rental. Complete your Small Pavilion Rental on CivicRec! Create a new account or login with Facebook or Google. This program gives you the ability to view the pavilion calendar, rent pavilions, or register for activities.
Once you create an account and sign in, be sure to click on ‘Account’ to verify your address and contact information. You can also update your contact preferences.
Here are just some things you can do on CivicRec: Check availability for park pavilion rentals Register your team for the Adult Social League Register for events as a vendor
Purchase a Veteran’s Memorial Plaza Paver Register for a library program
Go to Schertz.com to log on to CivicRec today to join in on all of the FUN to be had!
BRAINFUSE HELPNOW OFFERS FREE CHESS LESSONS
Brainfuse is excited to announce a new enhancement to our HelpNow service – live chess tutoring. Chess has become a very popular pastime during the pandemic and interest has exploded with The Queen’s Gambit. We have always been committed to promoting learning in its many forms. We are pleased to include this fun activity that also improves analytic and strategic thinking. Our chess tutors have certifiable qualifications such as high Elo ratings (2000+), chess coaching experience, and current or previous titles (e.g. expert/candidate master). Brainfuse HelpNow is available free with a Schertz Public Library card.
CREATIVEBUG
Schertz Public Library is now offering creativebug. Creativebug.com has thousands of award-winning art & craft video classes taught by recognized design experts and artists. Create a free account and log-in with your library card to find a project for any occasion. Please contact the library (210) 619-1700 if you have any questions about creativebug.
READING PROGRAMS Extreme Book Nerd Challenge 2021
The Extreme Book Nerd Challenge is a year-long reading challenge that encourages participants to read throughout the year, try new genres, and read subjects you wouldn’t normally pick up on your own. Sign-up in person or online starting February 1, 2021. Log your books on your reading log and return it to the library on or before January 31, 2022. For more information about the Extreme Book Nerd Challenge, please visit Schertz.com/booknerd.
1,000 Books Before Kindergarten
The Schertz Public Library & the Schertz-Cibolo Lions Club have partnered to offer an early literacy initiative called 1,000 Books before Kindergarten. This project encourages parents to read aloud at least 1,000 books with their children before they enter school. Register your child online or at the Children’s Information Desk to receive a free tote bag. Children will earn a sticker for every 100 books read and a book when they complete the program.
HOTSPOTS AVAILABLE FOR CIRCULATION
In partnership with Bexar County’s BiblioTech, the Schertz Public Library is now circulating hotspots! Anyone who finds themselves without access to the Internet can check out a hotspot to be used at home. Uses include, but aren’t limited to:
■ Conducting personal business
■ Continuing with educational endeavors
■ Participating in recreational opportunities
■ Applying for jobs or benefits,
■ Continue operating businesses
This program has been funded for a twelve-month period with the hope that the Digital Divide further expanded by this pandemic, can be bridged. Many thanks to Bexar County’s BiblioTech. For more information, contact the library at (210) 619-1700.
MONTHLY TAKE & MAKE ACTIVITY KITS FOR ADULTS
This month the library is offering macrame’ keychain take and make kits for adults. This kit also comes with instructions on how to access the library’s newest crafting database CreativeBug. Once you have established a free account with CreativeBug you can explore a variety of crafting tutorials and videos. We have a limited supply of craft kits that can be picked up in the library or via curbside service. For the most current information on kits for adults, visit the adult virtual programming page at Schertz.com/ adultvirtual.
POETRY IN YOUR PAJAMAS
THURSDAY, MARCH, 11, 6:30 P.M.
The monthly library poetry open mic has moved to a virtual format. The virtual program, Poetry in Your Pajamas is held on the second Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m. via GotoMeeting. Join us to listen to poetry from local poets or to share poetry of your own. Meeting Access information can be found on the library website calendar at Schertz.com/adultcalendar.
BYOB(OOK) EXTREME BOOK NERD VIRTUAL BOOK DISCUSSION
THURSDAY, MARCH 18, 6:30 P.M.
This month will kick-off our next annual Extreme Book Nerd Challenge and the beginning of our virtual monthly discussion group. Select any book you’d like that fits the category and come share what you read with others. This month the category is a book set on a continent other than your own. Meeting access information can be found on the library’s calendar at Schertz.com/adultcalendar.
VIRTUAL SCRAPBOOKING 101 CLASS
SATURDAY, MARCH 20, 1:00 P.M.
Join us for our first virtual weekend scrapbooking course. Kristin, our local expert, will teach you all you need to know to get started with scrapbooking. The course syllabus is available online or can be picked up at the library. Log-in information for the GotoMeeting session can be found on the library website calendar at Schertz. com/adultcalendar.
Connect
With Us on Social Media
Facebook.com/ SchertzLibrary
Instagram.com/ SchertzPublicLibrary
Twitter.com/ SchertzLibrary
For a comprehensive listing of all library events please visit SchertzLibrary.org.
Apply for the Hal Baldwin Scholarship
The Hal Baldwin Scholarship encourages young people to consider public service and is named after the Schertz mayor who gave 30 years of service to this city.
As Schertz residents beginning in the 1960s, Mayor Baldwin and wife Barbara saw the city grow from 5,000 residents to more than 30,000 and become San Antonio’s largest suburban city. Baldwin, a retired Air Force Senior Master Sergeant, served Schertz as an assistant city manager, civic volunteer, city councilman, and then-mayor (for nearly 17 years).
In recognition of Baldwin’s long service, the Schertz City Council established his namesake scholarship to encourage high school seniors (public, private, or homeschooled) who are residents of Schertz to consider public service as a career path.
SSLGC Welcomes Operations Manager
Please join us in welcoming James “Kevin” Fetterman to the Schertz/Seguin Local Government Corporation (SSLGC) as Operations Manager. Mr. Fetterman brings to SSLGC over 19 years of experience in water treatment and distribution. Prior to joining SSLGC, Mr. Fetterman served in various roles at the City of Austin including Treatment Superintendent, Construction Superintendent, and Pumping & Distribution Supervisor. Prior to working in Austin, Kevin drilled oil and gas wells for 20 years. Mr. Fetterman holds an "A" Water License from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. Kevin sits on the Board of Harley’s Wallet, a nonprofit organization that helps children with cancer and blindness. His experience and knowledge will be a great addition to the SSLGC team.
The 2020 scholarship will be awarded on a competitive basis. The scholarship may be used for tuition or other fees or expenses for any postsecondary school that is accredited by a state, regional, or national accreditation agency and is a traditional 2-4-year institution or other educational institution offering courses, degrees, or other training suitable to a public service career.
Applications for the Baldwin Scholarship can be downloaded from Schertz.com or picked up at the following locations:
Administrative Bldg. No.2 (Within the Hal Baldwin Municipal Complex, 1400 Schertz Parkway) City Hall, Bldg. No.1 Public Affairs Office, Bldg. No. 5 Schertz Public Library, 798 Schertz Parkway
Completed applications must be received in the City Manager’s Office (Bldg. No.2) by 5:00 p.m. Thursday, April 30. Incomplete applications will not be accepted.
For more information, contact Sarah Gonzalez at (210) 619-1015 or by email at sgonzalez@schertz.com.
2020-2021
Sewer Averaging
Sewer averaging for the winter months began on October 24, 2020, and will continue through March 6, 2021, 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. The final calculation result will be your sewer charge for the next 12 months.
RESIDENTS WITH AN AVERAGE BELOW 12,000 GALLONS
That total will be added to the base rate of $13.54 for residents with an average below 12,000 gallons.
RESIDENTS WITH AN AVERAGE 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.
Long-Time City Service Recognized
The City of Schertz is proud of our employees and we are incredibly thankful for their great service and dedication to our community. We are excited to recognize five long-time city employees who have recently reached milestone years of service in their City careers. Shelley Kraus (20 Years), Michael Jernigan (20 Years), Mack Melancon (20 Years), Manny Casas (20 Years), and Alicia Sepeda (20 Years) had the honor of being recognized for their service. Please join us in congratulating these employees on this major accomplishment!
SHELLEY KRAUSS
Shelley Krauss began her career with the city on October 2, 2000 as a receptionist/dispatcher in the Public Works Department before being transferred to the Purchasing Department as an Administrative Assistant in 2009. Since 2014, Shelley has served as the Administrative Assistant in the Finance Department.
Shelley was born in Kittery, Maine but her family moved to Schertz in 1969 due to her father being in the Air Force. Shelley has remained in the area since and is a graduate of Samuel Clemens High School.
20 YEARS
20 YEARS
Shelley and her husband Melvin have been married for 34 years and share three children named Levi, Katie, and Kasey. Shelley enjoys stock car racing, a hobby that was introduced to her by her husband and is shared by the whole family. In addition to stock car racing, Shelley also enjoys going to the beach with her family. Congratulations Shelley on your amazing accomplishment!
MANNY CASAS
Manny Casas was hired as a Police Officer on November 13, 2000. Manny has held numerous leadership positions in different departmental units and divisions within the Police Department. He successfully advanced through the ranks from an officer to a Captain, where he is currently assigned as the Operations Bureau Commander, overseeing Investigations and Uniform Services Divisions.
Manny was born and raised in San Antonio, Texas and, after graduating from Churchill High School, he enlisted in the Military. He continued his military career as a reservist, serving the U.S. Air Force’s security forces. Manny has a bachelor's degree and holds two master's degrees in Business Administration and Education.
Manny enjoys playing Call of Duty, reading, shopping, watching and playing sports, and spending time with his family. He considers himself to be one stroke away from joining the PGA tour and he can also play multiple instruments. Congratulations Manny on this amazing accomplishment!
20 YEARS
MACK MELANCON
Mack Melancon started with Schertz Fire Rescue on December 5, 2000 when there was a total of 4 personnel on shift. Currently, he is serving as a Lieutenant at Fire Station #2.
Mack was born in Louisiana but his family moved to Texas at an early age. He grew up in Bulverde and graduated from Smithson Valley High School in 1997 along with several other fire department personnel.
Mack has been married to his wife Lara for 17 years and they share two children, Hailee and Mason. In his spare time, Mack enjoys traveling, going to the beach, hunting, and fishing. Congratulations Mack on this incredible accomplishment!
MICHAEL JERNIGAN
Michael Jernigan started his career with the city in 1999 as a SAFES EMS volunteer. Michael was hired in October of 2000 when the city took over and it became Schertz Emergency Medical Services. He is currently serving as a paramedic.
Michael was born in Longview, Texas but his family moved to Schertz in 1979. He is a graduate of Samuel Clemens High School. After graduating, he joined the US Navy and served in the Gulf War onboard the USS Blue Ridge. Michael was stationed overseas in Japan for 5 years and Hawaii for 3 years.
20 YEARS
20 YEARS
Michael met his wife in high school and they married on a beach in Hawaii. They have two kids who are both graduates of Samuel Clemens High School. Michael enjoys shooting sports and fishing in his free time. One of Michael’s favorite things is volunteers because they want to help and make a difference. Congratulations Michael on your great accomplishment!
ALICIA SEPEDA
Alicia Sepeda has been serving as a Communications Officer for the city since December of 2000. As a dispatcher, she coordinates all Police, Fire, EMS, and Animal Services calls for the City of Schertz and Cibolo. Throughout her time with the city, she has proven herself to an effective and highly capable communications officer.
Alicia was born and raised in Seguin, Texas. Prior to working for the city, she studied Criminal Justice at San Antonio College. She has also obtained a Master’s certification in Communication.
When she is off the clock, Alicia spends most of her time at her son Dylan’s football, baseball, basketball, track, golf, tennis, and soccer events. She also enjoys relaxing at home with her family. Congratulations Alicia on this awesome accomplishment!
Annual Spring Clean Up
March 6 – 21, 2021
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Drop off at Republic Services Site
Items dropped off here will be free of charge to residents as a service paid for by the City of Schertz. The Drop off Site will be open March 6 - 21, 2021. Hazardous items and tires may only be dropped off on the weekend of March 20 - 21. Drop offs may be made at Republic Services temporary collection point, 125 Pecan Drive, Schertz, TX 78154 between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. daily. ENTRY TO THIS SITE IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO RESIDENTS DURING THIS CITY SPONSORED SPRING CLEAN UP EVENT.
Please Remember
Year-round, Republic Services will pick up household waste not covered under their normal collection service, such as lumber, major appliances, furniture, and other types of bulk waste. This may incur an additional fee (prices determined by Republic Services). If you have questions regarding the details, please call City of Schertz Utility Billing Department at (210) 619-1000.
Residents are able to drop off brush and limbs at 125 Pecan Drive, free of charge, DURING THE 2 WEEK CLEAN-UP EVENT ONLY.
What You Need To Know
The Spring Clean Up is restricted to Schertz residents only. Spring Clean Up activities do not apply to commercial/rental property clean ups, large property clean up, lot or acreage clean up, or lot and property land clearing. Commercial tree trimmers are not eligible for this service. A current City of Schertz utility bill (showing that the City of Schertz is your current garbage collector) and proper identification are required when making a drop-off. Commercial waste will not be accepted.
Limits
Household waste and yard waste only. Maximum of 2 pick-up truck loads per household or a maximum of 1 trailer load per household. Trailers are not to exceed 16’ long x 4’ high in size.
1. Couches, Stoves, Computers/Monitors, etc. that ARE NOT HAZARDOUS can be dropped off, free of charge, during the cleanup, Monday through Sunday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
2. Applianc es will be ACCEPTED FREE ONLY IF Freon tank is removed and certified by a technician. Any questions concerning the Freon tank removal, please contact Republic Services.
Hazardous Items/Tires Drop Off
March 20 – 21, 2021
1. HAZARD OUS ITEMS and TIRES may be dropped off ONLY on the weekend of March 20 - 21
2. Tires are limited to eight (8) per household.
3. Hazardous waste includes but is not limited to:
a. Ins ecticides, pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, chemicals, cleaning and bleach products, swimming pool cleaners and chemicals
b. Enamel and latex paints in cans and aerosol dispensers, varnish and stains, paint thinners and removers, acetone, etc. These items will have a combined 20 gallon limit per household.
c. TIRES are considered hazardous.
d. Tires on rims, or wheels, commercial vehicle tires, tractor tires, and heavy equipment tires WILL NOT be accepted.
e. Hazardous waste such as us ed automotive and cooking oils, filters and batteries- Oils will have a combined 20 gallon limit per household.
f. Empty propane tanks up to seven (7) gallons –VALVE MUST BE ENTIRELY REMOVED.
Items NOT accepted at any time: mercury, explosives, radioactive material, medical waste, freezers, compressed gas, ammunition, PCB’s or dioxins, air conditioners, gunpowder, smoke detectors, business waste.
Questions? For more information about the Spring Clean Up and what will and will not be accepted, please call Republic Services at (210) 304-2787 or Schertz Public Works at (210) 619-1800. You may also dial 311 within the City of Schertz. The City of Schertz and Republic Services are not responsible for damage to vehicles or injury to citizens during this event. The City of Schertz and Republic Services reserve the right to refuse service to anyone for not following the rules of the clean-up.
SCHERTZ PROJECT
NEW IMPROVEMENTS UNDERWAY ON I-10
The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has begun construction on a $149 million project that will improve roughly five miles on I-10 and frontage roads between Graytown Road and the Bexar/Guadalupe County line.
The project kicked off on January 25, 2021 and is intended to expand from 4 lanes to 6 lane expressway with intersection operation improvements and conversion of frontage roads to one-way operations. Construction is expected to complete by June 2025.
One of the most significant improvements is the conversion of the frontage roads from two- to one-way operations on both sides of IH-10 between Graytown Road to FM 2538. The conversion will take place at the project onset to allow for the construction of utility infrastructure along the outside of the frontage roads. Appropriate signs, pavement markings, and
construction barrels will be utilized to guide traffic safely through the construction zone.
Below are a few more notable improvements planned for this project:
■ New mainlane overpass at Pfeil Road with turnarounds will be constructed.
■ New mainlane underpasses at FM 1518 and FM 2538 will be constructed. These underpasses will include turnarounds for eastbound and westbound frontage roads.
■ New mainlane bridges over Cibolo Creek and Woman Hollering Creek.
To stay informed on the project by following TxDOT on Twitter or by visiting txdotsanantonio.blogspot.com.
At the Forefront of Slowing the Spread
By: Linda KlepperIn 2020 the City of Schertz Emergency Management team and Schertz Emergency Medical Services began working on a plan for the City to become a registered vaccination provider for COVID-19 vaccines. After experiencing the lasting effects that the pandemic has had on our community, the City was determined to be at the forefront of slowing the spread of COVID-19 and hopefully ending this pandemic. Mayor Ralph Gutierrez commented, “The health and safety of our community is our highest priority and guided our decision and efforts to become one of the first licensed COVID vaccine providers in Guadalupe County.”
After procuring specialized equipment and in conjunction with the highly trained personnel already on staff, Schertz EMS and Schertz Emergency Management met qualifications to receive, store, and distribute COVID-19 vaccines starting in January 2021. “For our team, it was simple, the faster we got our community vaccinated the healthier our community would be as well as getting our community back to a new normal as quickly as possible,” stated Fire Chief, Kade Long.
Once the City was approved to be a vaccination provider, staff quickly began formulating a plan for when vaccines would be
delivered. Understanding the challenges that the state and local jurisdictions faced with supply and demand, the City determined to move quickly upon delivery of any vaccines. This means the City plans to provide vaccine administration within 48 hours of vaccine delivery. Each week the City is notified of upcoming vaccine shipments and as soon as the notice is received, they begin setting up a vaccine clinic.
Shortly after the new year staff began executing these plans as the City received notification that 500 vaccines would be arriving on January 4. At the time, the State of Texas was allowing vaccinations for those in Phase 1A and Phase 1B groups, but the focus for the first vaccine clinic in Schertz was to provide vaccines to the 1A group.
Emergency Manager, Summer Hall commented, “Being able to host vaccination clinics for our community has been a great benefit in many ways. Primarily, the obvious benefit is providing the vaccination to residents to mitigate the spread of the Coronavirus. Second, the vaccination clinics in the City of Schertz offer a local option for Guadalupe County area residents to not have to travel as far to get their shot.”
Partnering with Guadalupe County, the City offered 500 vaccines to first responders in the area the first week of January. When the clinic was over the City found they were able to provide 571 vaccinations in total. The increase in inoculations occurred due to extra doses being collected from the vials – this has been a common experience among many vaccine providers. But even with that small increase of 71 unplanned doses the demand in our area far outweighs the supply that the City and other vaccine providers in the area are seeing.
According to the Texas COVID-19 Vaccination Plan published in October 2020, Public Health Region (PHR) 8 (where Schertz and Guadalupe County are located) has an estimated 578,177 adults in the vulnerable and frontline populations, including healthcare personnel, nursing home residents, and adults 65+. In addition, there are an estimated 2.5 million people in PHR 8 who are 18 or older with underlying medical conditions which may increase the risk for severe COVID-19 associate illness. This challenge of supply and demand is not slowing Schertz in our quest to keep the community safe and healthy, and we continue to vaccinate as many people as we can as each vaccine shipment arrives.
“We know that the current vaccine supply in our area is not keeping pace with the demand, and we continue to try to improve that by working
continued on page 30
We would like to applaud the City of Schertz for the tremendous task accomplished by them for issuing the COVID-19 vaccines in such a timely manner.
At the Forefront of Slowing the Spread
continued from page 29
with county and state officials to plead our case for more vaccines,” commented Mayor Gutierrez. “We also encourage all our residents to seek out vaccination opportunities wherever they can and to continue taking the necessary safety precautions to keep them and their loved ones safe. Schertz is committed to continuing to lead the efforts in Guadalupe county to offer vaccines for the health and safety of all its citizens.”
Since the first vaccine clinic in January the City has hosted four additional COVID-19 vaccination clinics and has provided vaccines to just over 3,000 people in the 1A and 1B groups.
“We would like to applaud the City of Schertz for the tremendous task accomplished by them for issuing the COVID-19 vaccines in such a timely manner. Everyone was so friendly and kind — we had no waiting time at all — just ushered in, taken to tables where the vaccination was given, handed a card with the date of the second vaccination, and we were in and out in no time at all. It was incredible! Thank You City of Schertz — we are extremely proud of you,” commented Jack and Shirley Pardue following their visit to one of the city’s vaccine clinics.
Guadalupe County and the City of Seguin have also joined the vaccination effort and have partnered with Guadalupe Regional Medical Center to host vaccination clinics throughout February.
As vaccine distribution ramps up in the coming weeks and months City and County officials are hopeful that things will start to normalize in our community once again. “There are a couple of vaccines that could be entering the vaccine process that may have a positive impact on vaccine availability over the next few months,” added City Manager Dr. Mark Browne. “But even still it is expected for the vaccine process to last through the end of the summer and possibly into the fall. I believe we are starting to see the decline of the pandemic and hopefully, that trend will continue over the next few months as more and more vaccines become available.”
For more information on vaccine clinics in the City of Schertz please go to Schertz.com/COVIDvaccine.
Local Pecan Farm Pivots Operations Amid COVID-19
By: Jaime ClineNestled between San Antonio and New Braunfels along the Dry Comal Creek, lies the Comal Pecan Farm. Settled by the Friesenhahn family in the 1850s, the area started as a large farm. Mostly selfsustained in the early years, the farm grew to include corn, cotton, cattle, sheep, and hay in the 1960s. Mark Friesenhahn introduced pecan trees to the farm in 1989 after purchasing several tracts from third parties who had purchased the land from his two great uncles in the 1960s. These acres would later grow to what is now the Comal Pecan Farm.
Today, the farm spans 105 acres and is home to several varieties of pecan trees including Wichita, Cheyenne, Kiowa, and Pawnees.
Friesenhahn remembers their first crop which was collected by hand, sorted, and dried.
“We took that first 100 pounds of pecans and my two sons and I went to a farmer’s market in Houston. That was our first revenue, our first sale,” he says proudly.
Pecan farming is a year-round activity. The dormant trees are trimmed at the end of the year to improve the shape of the tree canopy and to make space for the farm equipment to pass underneath. The trees get several rounds of fertilizer during the growing season which spans April to mid-July. Pecans require almost twice as much fertilizer as corn does—almost 500 pounds of fertilizer per acre a year! The pecans are kept carefully watered courtesy of a custom irrigation system which is key to producing full plump pecans. If the Texas weather cooperates—meaning no hailstorms and the summer droughts are moderate,
then the pecans are then ready for harvesting in the fall. The pecans are shaken off the trees using a machine that clamps onto the trunk of the tree and shakes the nuts to the orchard floor. The pecans are then collected off the orchard floor by a pecan harvester and the debris, branches, and leaves are discarded. Once transported to the barn, the pecans are cleaned again and any remaining leaves or branches are removed. They are inspected carefully before moving to the drying bin. The pecans are stored in the drying bins for approximately 5 days to reduce their moisture content and then they are sized, sorted for quality, and sacked for in-shell sales. The finished product is a high quality, high taste, fresh, and locally grown pecan. The farm though has been largely impacted by COVID-19 like most others in the agricultural industry.
“Prior to 2020, we were mostly in the wholesale business. But now, if you think about it, there aren’t large groups of tourists exploring downtown anymore. There aren’t huge conventions that would normally make large purchases. There aren’t conferences or even a big need from bakeries anymore. People are very selective about what they are spending their money on. The entire supply and demand balance has just been upset. Wholesale prices are not cutting it. Everyone in agriculture has been impacted,” shares Friesenhahn.
“So we had to think differently and adapt,” he admits.
That local support is just incredible and so valuable to local businesses like us. Come out and see us— we’d love to have you.
Local Pecan Farm Pivots Operations Amid COVID-19
continued from page 33
Shifting from a primarily wholesale model, the family now offers pecans in four different ways—in shell, cracked, the shelled meat of the pecan, and bottles of pecan oil. They also opened a small on-site retail storefront where pecan treats, roasted pecans, pecan pies, chocolate-covered pecans, pralines, trail mix, pecan oil, pecan brittle, and pecan butter are sold.
“What do you do when the price of wholesale pecans is so low? You figure it out and you move into the retail space. Now we have an experience for people to do when they come to pick up pecans. You can expand your customer base and reach by offering different things for them to try. They come in for a bag of pecans but end up leaving with maybe some oil and a mini pecan pie. Some customers tell us that the chocolate treats don’t even make it all the way home because they finish them during the car ride!”
The addition of the store puts the farm into a whole new arena— including expanding the space, adding air conditioning to the store, and hiring an employee to manage it.
“We have to think about the experience that we want people to have when they come out to see us. We want them to have quality products but also have a good time too. If we can answer any questions they have or share some knowledge with them about the pecans then that’s even better.”
Continuing to branch out in the retail space, Friesenhahn began participating in local farmers markets as well. Every Saturday he takes his pecan treats, pecan oil, and small bags of recently shelled pecans to a small local farmers market to share with happy and often repeat customers.
“People really like the treats and the small quantities that they can get at the farmers market. They appreciate the specialty and the smaller amounts compared with the people that come to the store that are sometimes focused on buying a larger amount of pecans.”
The Comal Pecan Farm is also exploring the idea of converting its website to Shopify. Taking on the addition of online orders and e-commerce in order to expand their reach to consumers is a necessary next step in this ever-changing economy.
“We are in the process of figuring it out and learning and learning as we go. I always just say we will figure it out. Starting by creating quality pictures of our pecans atop a beautiful leafy green salad with goat cheese or our pecan butter spread across a bagel, we are going to collaborate with a professional photographer to capture some great images for us. We’re hoping to have that up and running in the late spring or early summer,” he shares.
The farm is also expanding its social media presence with Facebook and Instagram accounts but Friesenhahn says that doesn’t compare to the simple power of word of mouth.
“Word of mouth is so powerful. We have people that come in that were told about us by their family or their friends because they had a great experience and loved our product. That means
so much to us. We had someone come to visit the store that lived down the road and didn’t even know that we were here and now they keep coming back. Their neighbor was the one that told them to stop by. The repeat customers that come see us at the farmers market and pre-order things. That local support is just incredible and so valuable to local businesses like us.”
The Comal Pecan Farm is open in the spring and summer Thursday thru Saturday from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Monday thru Saturday during the harvest season starting in September.
“Come out and see us—we’d love to have you,” says Friesenhahn.
AROUND THE COMMUNITY
Local Author Releases New Book
Schertz-based author Amy Bearce writes magical escapes for the young and young at heart readers, and her latest release is no exception. On February 2, 2021, publisher Jollyfish Press announced the release of Bearce’s latest novel, Rome Reframed. This is the second title in her Wish & Wander series, following Paris on Repeat which was released on July 14, 2020.
In this time-hopping story, Lucas is traveling through Europe with his family but wants nothing more than to go back home to Austin, Texas. When he is given an ultimatum by his teachers to either turn in an amazing last project or fail the eighth grade, Lucas has to decide whether to give up or give in to the mystery of Rome.
Amy Bearce is bridging the gap between middle-grade and young adult fiction, hoping to empower readers in the middle school age group to be confident as they navigate through life’s challenges. Rome Reframed is available in paperback and eBook format. For more information on Amy Bearce and her books, please visit amybearce.com. Also, if you haven’t already, be sure to check out the Schertz Magazine Feature Story on Amy in the September 2020 Issue.
Apply for the Schertz-Cibolo Lions Club Scholarship
The Schertz-Cibolo Lions Club has established this scholarship program for high school seniors, who are residents or attend school in Schertz or Cibolo, to encourage higher education or training and assist the applicants’ achievement of personal goals.
The Schertz-Cibolo Lions Club works as a service club organization and partners with the Schertz-Cibolo Lions Foundation to raise money for worthy local causes such as this scholarship program. All funds raised are used for charitable purposes; administrative costs are kept strictly separate and paid for by members.
The scholarship award may be used for tuition, fees, or expenses for any full-time post-secondary institution of higher learning. Acceptable institutions include traditional two or four-year colleges or universities accredited by a state, regional or national agency, or an educational, vocational, or technical training program of at least one year in duration.
In the past, up to 5 scholarships of $1,000.00 each have been awarded on a competitive basis.
Eligible students must:
■ Be currently enrolled high school seniors (including homeschooled students)
■ Have a graduation date in May/June 2021
■ Reside or attend school in Schertz or Cibolo.
Completed application packages must be received (not postmarked) no later than 5:00 p.m. on May 5, 2021. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Scholarship winner(s) will not receive direct payment from the Schertz-Cibolo Lions Foundation; instead, awards will be made in the name of the recipient to their selected institution of higher learning, upon receipt of evidence of registration or enrollment.
For more information, contact Dr. David L. Scagliola, Scholarship Committee Chair, at (830) 606-1130 or visit the Schertz-Cibolo Lions Club website Calendar page and click the ‘view flyer’ tab on the scholarship listing.
Lions FC Player Headed to England
Samuel Moore, a member of the Lions Futball Club in Schertz and senior at Johnson High School, is taking his talents overseas! On Wednesday, February 3 Samuel signed to play in the University Degrees Abroad (UDA) Soccer Program at the University of Chester in England. Samuel began playing soccer at a young age and has played for the Lions Futball Club for 16 years, traveling around the country and to England to play. He currently plays Varsity Soccer at Johnson High School.
Samuel’s parents, Sarah and Peter Moore moved to the United States from England 21 years ago to be with family. Samuel is the first in his family to be born in the United States, making him a firstgeneration American. Samuel has carried on his family’s love for soccer, supporting their home team of Aston Villa by watching and attending as many games as possible.
Samuel plans to double major in Sports Science and Exercise as well as Psychology. He feels blessed to have the opportunity to continue his education and soccer career in his family’s home country of England. Congratulations Samuel, we wish you the best in all of your future endeavors!
AROUND THE COMMUNITY
Local Companies Work Together on Community Trash Pickup
Shelby and Philip Reed recently moved to Schertz in July, and own a local pet grooming company, Tails Agogo. They began to notice there were certain areas where trash was collecting on the roadways, so to help keep things clean, they stepped up and partnered with Jessica Davis, owner of Arfordable Dog Training who has lived in Schertz most of her life, to put together a community trash pickup.
After careful planning and coordination with the City, they picked their first location, the hugely messy underpass by Cut Off Park off of E. Aviation. Since all of the clean-up crew live in the Aviation Heights area, this was their backyard. After a few short hours with six volunteers, a lot of trash bags, and concentrated effort almost every piece of trash was removed and amounted to a whopping total of 38 bags of trash.
The vision was never to include one single event, but to join together the entire community under a coordinated effort of cleaning up the streets of Schertz and Cibolo. Their idea is to meet once monthly for about one hour on the last Sunday of every month, in the afternoon. The next location has not yet been determined, but they are open to suggestions. The call to action is simple: help. Help with coordinating, picking up trash, paying for the disposal, advertising, telling your friends, everything. Not everyone will have the physical ability to bend over for an hour, sometimes lifting heavy pieces of refuse, and
that is perfectly okay. The community can be involved to the extent of their own ability.
Due to the massive response and number of people who want to get involved, a Facebook event has been created with instructions and directions for those who want to help pick up trash. Those who want to help lead and coordinate can email Philip Reed at phil@tailsagogo.com.
Share your Wildflower Photos With Us!
Spring has begun, and this means that the Texas hills will soon be filled with colorful displays of bluebonnets and other beautiful wildflowers. It’s time to frolic in the flowers and get those perfect spring pictures. Your photo could be featured in an upcoming issue!
Please send your photos to magazine@schertz.com. We can’t wait to see them!
AROUND THE COMMUNITY
SCUCISD Seniors Sign Letters of Intent
Twenty-three student-athletes from the Schertz-CiboloUniversal City Independent School District signed their lettersof-intent to continue their academic and athletic careers at the collegiate level on National Signing Day, held on February 3. Sixteen of the student-athletes, representing eight different sports disciplines made their commitment before family and friends at Samuel Clemens High School. All COVID-19 safety protocols were observed during the separate ceremonies held in the Event Center during athletic periods.
Meanwhile, seven student-athletes from Byron P. Steele High School, representing four different sports signed their scholarships, with two ceremonies in the auditorium and another in the gymnasium. COVID-19 protocols, including face coverings, social distancing, and capacity limitations were observed.
SAMUEL CLEMENS HIGH SCHOOL
Hayven Harrison Soccer University of Kansas
Christabel Thompson Soccer Louisiana Tech University
Darwin Hull Wrestling Chadron State College (Nebraska)
Canada Buchanan Volleyball Texas A&M-Kingsville
Emily Smith Athletic Training Dallas Baptist University
Jackson Andrews Football Abilene Christian University
Andrew Edwards Football Abilene Christian University
Max DiDomenico Football Tyler Junior College
Kaydon Olivia Football Texas State University
Jake Beltran Golf Texas A&M-San Antonio
Shelvy Curtis Basketball UNT-Dallas
Anessa Lopez Basketball
Our Lady of the Lake University
Christian Garza Football University of the Incarnate Word
Dwayne Smith Football Blinn Junior College
Kyle Tharp Football Utica College (New York)
Azalea Ramos Softball/ Baseball East Central University (Oklahoma)
Elijah Sherwin Softball/ Baseball State University of NY-Jefferson
Bret Gray Golf Sam Houston State University
Jillian Jones Softball Texas A&M-Kingsville
Crislyne Moreno Softball McNeese State University
Sydney Norton Softball Lamar University
Kelsey Sample Softball Hendrix College (Arkansas)
James Starr Baseball Texas Wesleyan University
LOOKING BACK March
QUOTE OF NOTE
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
LOCAL HISTORY
On March 30, 1846, Guadalupe County was created from portions of Gonzales and Bexar Counties. It was named for the Guadalupe River which flows through the county. The river was named by Alonsa de Leon, an explorer and governor in New Spain, a territorial entity of the Spanish Empire during the Spanish colonization of the Americas. During his expeditions, he named several Texas rivers, including the San Marcos River, the Guadalupe, the Medina, the Nueces, and the Trinity.
TEXAS HISTORY
On March 13, 1912, Ben Kilpatrick, a former sidekick of Butch Cassidy and Sundance Kid, and Ole Hobek attempted one of the last major train robberies in west Texas. The two robbers boarded the Galveston, Harrisburg, and San Antonio railroad train when it stopped at Dryden on the way to El Paso. They ordered the engineer on to Baxter’s Curve, a sharp bend in the railway’s rail bed. The baggage cars were uncoupled from the coaches, but while the two searched for valuables, Wells Fargo express manager David A. Trousdale overpowered and killed Kilpatrick and Hobek who were buried in Sanderson, Texas.
Rosemary Scott (210) 419-8472
rscott@schertz.com
Jill Whittaker (210) 846-8768
jwhittaker@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/311 (210) 619-1000
Animal Services
(210) 619-1550
City Manager (210) 619-1000
City Secretary (210) 619-1030
Civic Center (210) 619-1600
Economic Development (210) 619-1070
EMS (non-emergency) (210) 619-1400
Fire (non-emergency) (210) 619-1300
Inspections (210) 619-1750
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) 619-1600
Public Library (210) 619-1700
Public Works (210) 619-1800
Records (210) 619-1030
Trash & Recycling (210) 619-1100
Utility Billing (210) 619-1100
Presented by the Schertz Historical Preservation Committee in the interest of historical perspective and community awareness of local historical legacies.“No one can make you feel inferior without your consent."
– Eleanor Roosevelt
Due to the current situation surrounding COVID-19, these events may be subject to cancellation. Please check Schertz.com for the most recent updates.