October 2022

BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE CITY OF SCHERTZ, TEXAS

SCHERTZ

SCHERTZ

City Council

Ralph Gutierrez Mayor

Mark Davis 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

Adrian Perez Executive Director

Sarah Gonzalez Assistant to the City Manager

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.

CITY MANAGER FROM THE DESK OF THE

Hello Schertz residents!

We have an exciting magazine issue for all our residents in October. We are pleased to be able to bring you this edition packed with great information!

First, I would like to point your attention to a new magazine section on page 28 which is called “What’s Developing in Schertz.” This will highlight our new businesses that are developing in the City and give you a great preview on the fantastic new establishments that will be available in our town soon.

Enjoy a feature story on our new Police Chief Jim Lowery, who comes to us from Arlington, Texas. Jim was sworn in as police chief in early July, and he has hit the ground running, establishing himself as an available and interactive member of our community. He is already accomplishing great things for the department, and we look forward to watching the department achieve new goals and objectives in the future while continuing to provide outstanding assistance to our citizens.

The City is embarking on a new effort to make major improvements to Main Street. The City recently issued $3.25 million in bonds to cover civic improvements with a goal of ensuring Main Street is a quality place for future development. The City anticipates issuing up to $7 million more in bonds as the program develops which will also be used to fund infrastructure (roads, sewer, and water). We are excited to see what this area becomes over the next few years as there are so many possibilities there.

City Council approved the City budget for Fiscal Year 2022- 2023 in September and the new budget fully funds our programs for the next fiscal year and includes 24 new positions in the general fund which help us meet the demand caused by growth and new development. We will continue to provide outstanding, quality services to our residents because of the funding provided in this budget.

Halloween is approaching as well, and we want to remind all our residents about Halloween safety. The City will be hosting “Trunk or Treat at the Station” at our three fire stations on Halloween night. More information about all these programs is contained in this superb edition. Best wishes to all for a Happy October.

OCTOBER 2022

PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY Public Affairs Department

Linda Klepper

Public Affairs Director

Devan Christensen

Communications Manager

Caanon Gibbons

Marketing & Communications Specialist

Contributing Writers

Linda Klepper, Devan Christensen, Sarah Gonzalez, Kira Villarreal, Leslie Asher Blair, Cassandra Paddock, Lizzi Bertoia, Emily Delgado, Anna Kraft, Krista Chandler, Summer Hall

Contributing Photographers

Linda Klepper, Devan Christensen, Candace Schwab, Anna Kraft, Stacey Lovett, Joe 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.

EDITORIAL 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.com

Join Schertz Fire Rescue this month for Fire Prevention Week October 9-15 and for Trunk or Treat at the Station on October 31.

Applications Now Open Until October 10

Schertz Parks & Recreation recently introduced the new Schertz Young Leaders Program for high school students.

The purpose of Schertz Young Leaders is to give students the opportunity to learn about their community on a higher level. Participants will be introduced to the multiple facets that make up Schertz: Local Government, Education, Community Businesses & Partners, and the Randolph Air Force Base. Participating in this program should increase students’ community awareness and prepare them to make positive impacts in the future.

The program seeks to foster the development of knowledgeable citizens and future leaders of Schertz through in-depth programs that introduce students to the wide variety of opportunities, challenges, and resources available in the City and allow them to interact with community leaders and decision-makers.

Schertz Young Leaders consists of five (5) mandatory school-day sessions as well as an evening graduation in May. Each session will be focused on a particular topic pertaining to the community and will also promote personal growth. Students will hear from and interact with community leaders, tour facilities, and complete a class project. Also required is attendance at one (1) Schertz City Council Meeting, one (1) volunteer event, and one (1) SCUCISD Board Meeting.

TENTATIVE SCHEDULE

Schertz Young Leaders is open to all interested high school students (public, private, and homeschooled) that reside in Schertz or are in the SCUC Independent School District.

PUPS ENJOY A DAY AT THE POOL

Every dog has its day… in Schertz, that day was September 10! The annual Paws in the Pool event always makes a splash among the four-legged community members. Prior to Pickrell Park Pool closing down for the summer season, local pups and their owners are allowed a special day to enjoy the facility just to themselves. Participants pre-registered for one of two 90-minute time slots and a $3 entry fee which allowed them full reign to doggypaddle away the last of the dog days of summer.

Schertz Parks and Recreation and the Schertz Family YMCA host this special pool party for pups of all breeds and sizes to dip their paws in. From fetching and diving off the deep end to wading in the kiddie pool, these pups made summer memories that will last fur-ever!

AN

UNDER THE STARS

NATURE DISCOVERY SERIES

The 2022 Nature Discovery Series Fall 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 FREE themed programs held at 10:00 a.m. at Crescent Bend Nature Park. Preregistration is encouraged for all participants to ensure materials and activities are available.

Oct 8

Nov 12

Discover Dinosaur Tracks: Tracks tell tales

Discover Early Texans: When kids knew how to live off the land

The City of Schertz is committed to providing a high quality of life for our residents which includes the many events, programs, and facility rentals offered by Schertz Parks & Recreation. To offer a new convenience to our residents, the City implemented CivicRec. This program gives you the ability to view, register, and reserve Schertz Parks & Recreation activities, events, facilities, and manage your account all in one place. Payments for programs and rentals can also be made on CivicRec.

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. Then you may click on “Catalog” to view recreation programs, special events, volunteer opportunities, pavilion rentals, and more.

Here are just some things you can do on Civic Rec:

Check availability for park pavilion rentals

Register your team for Adult Social Leagues

Sign up to volunteer

Purchase a Veteran's Memorial Plaza brick

BOOK YOUR PARK PAVILION RENTALS THROUGH

ROCKET LANGUAGES

An award-winning and interactive online language learning system. Library cardholders can use this resource to learn conversational language at their own pace. You can access it as streaming learning or by downloading it for easy access on all MP3 compatible devices. You can go at your own pace and study whenever you have time! Languages available: Spanish (Latin American), Arabic, French, German, Chinese (Mandarin), Hindi, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Brazilian Portuguese, English (Spanish Speakers), English (Japanese Speakers) and American Sign Language. Contact the library for more information.

LEGO® LAB

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 1, 10:15 - 11:15 AM

Think you're a master LEGO® builder? Join other LEGO® enthusiasts at the library and hone your skills. Our monthly events include a themed LEGO® build where you can create your own masterpiece! You may even find your work on display in the library. This program is open to elementary age children and their siblings. LEGOS® are provided, just bring your imagination! Join us the first Saturday of the month from 10:15 - 11:15 a.m. Find the link to register on our online calendar at schertz.com/ youthcalendar.

SCHERTZ AREA GENEALOGISTS MEETING

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 6:30 PM

The Schertz Area Genealogy group meets on the first Tuesday of every month, except the month of July, at the Schertz Public Library. The meetings are held 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. in Library Meeting Room 1 with speakers or general discussion about worldwide research.

STORY & SWIM TIME

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 7, 10:00 - 11:30 AM

The Schertz Family YMCA and the Schertz Public Library invite children ages 6 and younger to join our Story & Swim time. Ms. April presents story time followed by a craft or activity. We end the morning with swim time with a certified instructor. Join us the first Friday of every month September through May from 10:0011:30 a.m. Space is limited, and registration is required. Sign up at the YMCA Welcome Center. Parents are required to participate with child(ren) and accompany them in the pool.

POETRY OPEN MIC

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 13, 6:30 PM

Join us for a relaxed and friendly open mic poetry night on Thursday, October 13 from 6:30 - 8:00 p.m. in Library Meeting Room 1. This open mic will give poets the opportunity to socialize and network with other writers. Everyone is invited to come enjoy the work of our local poets. Sign-up for readers will be available the night of the program.

SUNDAY AFTERNOON MINDFULNESS MEDITATION PRACTICE

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 16, 1:00 PM

Join mindfulness meditation teacher Mike Brown for an afternoon meditation session. The cultivation of mindfulness can help us navigate the ups and downs of daily stressors and promote health and wellness. This session is suitable for beginning and experienced meditators. You’re welcome to bring your own meditation cushion; chairs will be provided. Registration is available at schertz.com/adultcalendar.

SCRAPBOOK AND PAPER CRAFTING CROP

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 23, 12:00 PM

Join us on the fourth Sunday of each month from 12 - 5 p.m. in the Program Room for a paper crafting meet-up. Visit the calendar for more details at schertz.com/adultcalendar.

PROGRAMS & SERVICES

MEDICARE 101 PRESENTATION WITH TEXAS MEDICARE SOLUTIONS

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 6:00 PM

Michael Salazar with Texas Medicare Solutions will be presenting an information session on Medicare. Pre-registration not required. Medicare 101 will be held in Library Meeting Room 1.

FREE MATH TUTORING

MONDAYS 3:00 - 5:00 PM

We are helping kids understand math and enhancing important math concepts for students in 4th-8th grade. Drop in with your math concerns, questions, and/or problems for free math tutoring on Mondays from 3 - 5 p.m. in Meeting Room 2. Open to anyone who has math questions for this level, including parents and grandparents, homeschool parents and kids, and of course 4th-8th grade students. Library patron Casey St. Clair is offering her time and expertise to our community. She is a certified teacher and has been tutoring in math for 12 years.

DON’T GET HACKED: CYBERSECURITY BASICS

2ND AND 4TH TUESDAYS

Join us for a beginner’s workshop to learn basic internet safety practices, such as creating passwords and spotting potential scams. The workshop will be held in Meeting Room 1 on Tuesday, October 11 from 6 – 7 p.m., and Tuesday, October 25 from 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. Visit the calendar for more details at schertz.com/adultcalendar.

EASING INTO E-BOOKS WITH LIBBY & CLOUDLIBRARY

1ST AND 3RD TUESDAYS

Bring your device (smart phone, tablet, e-reader) and we will help you get started with our two e-reading apps—Libby and cloudLibrary. These information sessions will be held in Meeting Room 1 on Tuesday, October 4 from 10:30-11:30am, and Tuesday, October 18 from 6-7pm. Visit the calendar for more details at schertz.com/ adultcalendar

ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE CLASSES (ESL)

WEDNESDAYS 10:00 - 11:30 AM

The library is offering ESL Pronunciation Classes this Fall for adult learners on Wednesdays October 5 and October 12 from 10:00 - 11:30 a.m. in Meeting Room 1. This will be a continuation of the 6-week ESL course from September that will assist learners with refining pronunciation to improve speaking and listening.

WALK-IN TECH HELP

2ND AND 4TH WEDNESDAYS; 6:30 PM Stop by Meeting Room 1 on Wednesdays from 6:30-7:30 p.m. on October 12 and 26 to get help using your cell phone, tablet, or laptop. No registration required—first come, first served. Visit the calendar for more details at schertz.com/adultcalendar.

GAME ON!

Did you know board games teach critical thinking, strategic skills, offer social opportunities for participants, keep minds sharp and are just plain fun? Learn a new game or play an old favorite. Our goal is to connect families, teach social skills, learn problem solving skills, and to have fun. A parent or guardian is required to participate with child(ren). Check the calendar for date and time information at schertz.com/ youthcalendar.

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

CYBER SAFETY STARTS AT HOME!

Help make your home a safe digital haven by protecting networks, devices and online lives with these tips:

KEEP A CLEAN MACHINE

Having the latest security software, web browser and operating system is the best defense against viruses, malware and other online threats. Remember, mobile phones and tablets need updating too!

SHARE WITH CARE

Think before posting about yourself and others online. Consider what a post reveals, who might see it and how it could be perceived now and in the future.

LOCK DOWN YOUR LOGIN

Usernames and passwords are not enough to protect key accounts like email, bank and social media. Improve account security by enabling strong authentication tools such as biometrics or unique one-time codes.

SECURE YOUR WI-FI ROUTER

Set a strong passphrase (at least 12 characters long) for your Wi-Fi network. Focus on positive sentences or phrases that you like to think about and are easy to remember (for example, “I love country music.”). Name your network in a way that doesn’t let people know it’s your house.

PERSONAL INFORMATION IS LIKE MONEY. VALUE IT. PROTECT IT.

Information about you, such as your purchase history or location, has value – just like money. Be thoughtful about who gets that information and how it’s collected through apps and websites.

BACK IT UP

Protect your valuable work, music, photos and other digital information by making an electronic copy and storing it safely.

Learn more about ncsam and staying safe online at staysafeonline.org/ncsam

From the Development Whiteboard Planning & Community Development

October is National Community Planning Month

Let’s Celebrate How Planning Benefits the City of Schertz

Each October, the American Planning Association (APA) observes National Community Planning Month. Established in 2006, the National Community Planning Month is a month-long celebration to recognize the instrumental role planning has in bringing innovations and inclusivity to all communities. October is an opportunity to acknowledge the challenging and rewarding responsibility planners have in creating the places we call home, and to commemorate the lasting value that planning brings to Schertz.

The planning profession is a highly collaborative field that assists in promoting a community vision for both today and the future. Planners consider how the built environment impacts the safety, existing character, and design of each community. A key component to a person’s life and well-being, planning fosters cooperation that impacts residential design, cultivates business within the community, incorporates nature into the city, and even affects the roads we travel on.

Planners within the City of Schertz wear many different hats. The daily responsibility of the Planning Division includes a variety of duties including: providing information to the public, reviewing new residential subdivisions and commercial developments, updating the Unified Development Code, presenting at City

Council, the Planning & Zoning Commission, and the Board of Adjustment, assisting other departments, performing research, and interpreting state laws and codes. The Planning Division is fast-paced and constantly evolving, and always striving to meet the challenge of always putting current and future residents at the forefront of decisions.

As Schertz continues to grow and progress, our Planning Division, along with Engineering, Public Works, Inspections, and the Fire Marshal, play a vital role in ensuring that new developments are designed to harmonize with the existing community. Within the last fiscal year (October 2021- September 2022) the Planning Division processed over 100 different applications and cases. Additionally, the Planning Division processed over 70 Planning Division Certification requests and assisted in the management and organization of more than 130 certifications for other departments.

The City of Schertz Planning Division has received the American Planning Association Texas Chapter Certificate of Achievement for Planning Excellence every year since 2014. The Planning Division is always welcoming of questions or inquiries from residents and property owners on any planning-related topic. Please feel free to contact any of the Planners at (210) 619-1780 or planning@schertz.com.

So, this October, ask yourself what you enjoy most about Schertz. Get to know the planners in our community, learn about the local planning initiatives underway, and maybe even attend your first planning-related meeting in person or via live stream on the City’s YouTube channel.

Ask a Question

The Planning & Community Development Department welcomes questions or inquiries from residents and property owners on any planning-related topic. Please feel free to contact any of the Planners at (210) 619-1780 or planning@schertz.com

Upcoming Planning and Zoning Commission Meetings

■ October 12 at 6 p.m. in the City Council Chambers

■ October 26 at 6 p.m. in the City Council Chambers

Changes Coming to Schertz Magazine

On behalf of the City of Schertz, we would like to thank you for your continued support and readership. With over a 30-year commitment to excellence in communication and government transparency, the City of Schertz began a one-page newsletter inserted into water bills in the 1990’s. But as the community grew, so did the city's communication efforts and in April of 2008, the newsletter transitioned into Schertz Magazine, a 48-page monthly magazine.

Today, Schertz Magazine is the number one source of government information in our community and is direct mailed to Schertz residents and businesses with additional copies made available throughout the community. Schertz Magazine provides information on current city projects, programs, and events as well as helpful reminders of the services the city offers yearround. It also includes tips on how residents can stay safe around their neighborhoods and homes and includes information about things going on around the community.

Recently, the magazine staff was challenged with finding a way to continue producing the magazine in a cost-effective way. Costs have been on the rise across various industries, and the paper industry is no exception. To help combat these increases the City has determined that Schertz Magazine will transition to a 32-page publication. While you will see the content

presented in a different way, staff's goal is to continue to provide important city news and information and community happenings you all have come to expect from this publication. And, we still encourage you to take your magazine with you when you travel as we love showing off all the places the magazine goes!

The new design of Schertz Magazine will launch in November 2022 and we are eager to hear from the community on the new look. We hope that you continue to read and support this beloved city publication and if you have any feedback for staff, please email magazine@schertz.com.

Planning Staff

Schertz EMS Receives American Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline® EMS Gold Plus Recognition Award

Schertz EMS recently received the American Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline® EMS Gold Plus Award for implementing quality improvement measures for the treatment of patients who experience severe heart attacks. Schertz EMS has received the Mission Lifeline Gold Plus Award for 6 years in a row and the Lifeline Award for 8 years in a row.

Each year, more than 250,000 people experience an ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), the deadliest type of heart attack, caused by a blockage of blood flow to the heart that requires timely treatment. To prevent death, it is critical to restore blood flow as quickly as possible, either by mechanically opening the blocked vessel or by providing clot-busting medication.

The American Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline program helps reduce barriers to prompt treatment for heart attacks – starting from when 9-1-1 is called, to EMS transport and continuing through hospital treatment and discharge. Optimal care for heart attack patients takes coordination between

the individual hospital, EMS, and healthcare system. “EMTs and paramedics play a vital part in the system of care for those who have heart attacks,” said Tim Henry, M.D., chair of the Mission: Lifeline Acute Coronary Syndrome Subcommittee. “Since they often are the first medical point of contact, they can save precious minutes of treatment time by activating the emergency response system that alerts hospitals to an incoming heart attack patient.”

Program participants apply for the award recognition by demonstrating how their organization has committed to improving quality care for STEMI patients.

“Schertz EMS is honored to be recognized by the American Heart Association for our dedication to providing optimal care for heart attack patients,” said EMS Director Jason Mabbitt. “The Mission: Lifeline program puts proven knowledge and guidelines to work on a daily basis so patients have the best possible chance of survival.”

Mission: Lifeline EMS Gold Recognition: Agencies earn Gold recognition with a minimum patient volume of at least 8 STEMI patients transported directly to a STEMI Receiving Center for Primary PCI and/or STEMI Referring Hospital for fibrinolytic administration and for achieving 75% or higher adherence over at least one consecutive 24 month interval all Mission: Lifeline® EMS quality measures to improve the quality of care for STEMI patients.

Mission: Lifeline EMS Gold Plus Recognition: In addition to meeting the above requirements, the agency also achieved at least 75% on the 2018 Plus Measure –Percent of adult Out-Of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest patients resuscitated on scene with sustained ROSC of at least 20 minutes, maintained to arrival at the emergency department, who has a 12 lead ECG performed in the field.

Register for the Blue Santa Tree

The Schertz Police Department is preparing to kick off its Blue Santa Program. The program was created to help bring holiday happiness to the families and children in Schertz. First, the "Blue Santa Tree" will be set up in the PD lobby with the Christmas Wishes placed on the tree. Then, the community can come and adopt the wish.

If you would like to request assistance for a family, we will begin accepting applications Monday, October 17. You can find the applications at Schertz.com or by stopping by the police department. The deadline for applications will be Friday, November 18. For more information, contact Officer Anna Kraft at (210) 619-1264 or akraft@schertz.com.

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

2022-2023

Sewer Averaging

Sewer averaging for the winter months began November 1, 2022, and will continue through March 15, 2023, 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 $4.94. The final calculation result will be your sewer charge for the next 12 months.

If you get your bill on the 10th day of the month your calculation period will be November 1 to March 1 and if you get your bill on the 25th day your period will be November 15 to March 15.

RESIDENTS WITH AN AVERAGE BELOW 12,000

GALLONS

That total will be added to the base rate of $15.01 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 $4.94 and the portion of the average above 12,000 gallons will be multiplied by $11.22 and that total will be added to the base rate of $15.01 for residential use.

Schertz Fire Rescue Reminds Residents that “Fire Won’t Wait. Plan Your escape.™ ”

Schertz Fire Rescue is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®)—to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Fire Prevention WeekTM (FPW), October 9-15, 2022. This year’s FPW campaign, “Fire won’t wait. Plan your escapeTM”, works to educate everyone about simple but important actions they can take to keep themselves and those around them safe from home fires.

“Today’s homes burn faster than ever. You may have as little as two minutes (or even less time) to safely escape a home fire from the time the smoke alarm sounds. Your ability to get out of a home during a fire depends on early warning from smoke alarms and advance planning,” said Lorraine Carli, vice president of Outreach and Advocacy at NFPA.

Schertz Fire Rescue encourages all residents to embrace the 2022 Fire Prevention Week theme.

“It’s important for everyone to plan and practice a home fire escape. Everyone needs to be prepared in advance, so that they know what to do when the smoke alarm sounds. Given that every home is different, every home fire escape plan will also be different,” said Fire Chief Greg Rodgers. “Have a plan for everyone in the home. Children, older adults, and people with disabilities may need assistance to wake up and get out. Make sure that someone will help them!”

The Schertz Fire Department wants to share these key home fire escape planning tips:

■ Make sure your plan meets the needs of all your family members, including those with sensory or physical disabilities.

■ Smoke alarms should be installed inside every sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every level of your home. Smoke alarms should be interconnected so when one sounds, they all sound.

■ Know at least two ways out of every room, if possible. Make sure all doors and windows open easily.

■ Have an outside meeting place a safe distance from your home where everyone should meet.

■ Practice your home fire drill at least twice a year with everyone in the household, including guests. Practice at least once during the day and at night.

To find out more about Fire Prevention Week programs and activities in Schertz, please contact the Schertz Fire Department at (210) 619-1300. For more general information about Fire Prevention Week and fire prevention in general, visit fpw.org and sparky.org.

Community Gathers in Solidarity for Domestic Violence Awareness

The Guadalupe Valley Family Violence Shelter & Crisis Center will host their Annual Candlelight Vigil in the Flag Courtyard at Cibolo City Hall on Wednesday, October 26 at 6 p.m., honoring Texas lives that were lost as a result of domestic violence in within the last year.

After hosting the Candlelight Vigil virtually for the last two years, the crisis center is more than ready to join again with members of the community in solidarity.

As we continue to support survivors and advocate against violence as a united front, please consider participating in “Go Purple Day” on Thursday, October 20. “Go Purple Day” is a national day of action during each Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Everyone is encouraged to wear all things purple as a symbol of peace, courage, survival, honor, and personal dedication to domestic violence awareness.

If you are looking for additional opportunities for involvement, a proclamation recognizing October 2022 as Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention Month will be read by Mayor Ralph Gutierrez at the September 27 Schertz City Council Meeting, and Mayor Stosh Boyle will present the proclamation for Cibolo at the October 11 Cibolo City Council Meeting. We ask all who wish to join us to attend these city council meetings to support survivors, as well as local efforts to address the issue of domestic violence.

November 8th, 2022 Election NOTICE OF GENERAL AND SPECIAL ELECTION

To the registered voters of the City of Schertz: Notice is hereby given that the polling places listed below will be open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., November 8, 2022, for voting in the general election to elect Councilmembers for Place 1, Place 2 and for Mayor.

Locations of Early Voting Polling Places: Early voting by personal appearance will be conducted as listed below:

Applications for ballot by mail shall be mailed to: Comal County Early Voting Clerk, Bobbie Koepp, 396 N. Seguin Ave., New Braunfels, Texas 78130; Guadalupe County Early Voting Clerk, Lisa Hayes, P.O. Box 1346, Seguin, Texas 78156-1346; Bexar County Early Voting Clerk, Jacque Callanen, 1103 S. Frio, Ste. 100, San Antonio, Texas 78207-9950. Applications for ballots by mail must be received no later than the close of business on October 28, 2022.

EARLY VOTING POLLING LOCATIONS: OCT. 24 – NOV. 4, 2022

Guadalupe County

General and Special Elections

Comal County

Hours:

Main Early Voting

SEGUIN ELECTIONS OFFICE*

215 S. Milam St. Seguin, TX 78155

* Emergency and limited ballots available at this location only

Early Voting Polling Locations:

CENTRAL TEXAS TECHNOLOGY CENTER

2189 FM 758 New Braunfels, TX 78130

CIBOLO FIRE STATION #2

3864 Cibolo Valley Dr. Cibolo, TX 78108

SCHERTZ ELECTIONS OFFICE ANNEX

1101 Elbel Rd. Schertz, TX 78154

Early Voting Polling Locations:

COMAL COUNTY ELECTION OFFICE*

396 N. Seguin Ave. New Braunfels, TX 78130

COMAL COUNTY OFFICES – BULVERDE ANNEX JP #2 COURTROOM

30470 Cougar Bend Bulverde, TX 78163

7:00 a.m. –7:00 p.m.

Hours for Garden Ridge City Hall: **

MAMMEN FAMILY PUBLIC LIBRARY, MEETING ROOM A 131 Bulverde Crossing Bulverde, TX 78163

COMAL COUNTY OFFICES –GOODWIN ANNEX, TRAINING ROOM

1297 Church Hill Dr. New Braunfels, TX 78130

* Emergency and limited ballots available at this location only

NEW BERLIN CITY HALL

9180 FM 775 New Berlin, TX 78121

REDEMPTIVE GRACE MINISTRIES

2240 FM 725 New Braunfels, TX 78130

Applications for ballot by mail shall be mailed to: Lisa Hayes, Elections Administrator, P. O. Box 1346, Seguin, TX 78156. Applications for ballot by mail must be received no later than the close of business on October 22, 2021.

ST. FRANCIS BY THE LAKE EPISCOPAL CHURCH LARGE ROOM 121 Spring Mountain Dr. Canyon Lake, TX 78133

GARDEN RIDGE CITY HALL, MUNICIPAL COURT ROOM** 9400 Municipal Parkway, Garden Ridge, Texas 78266

Applications for ballot by mail shall be mailed to: Comal County Early Voting Clerk, Bobbie Koepp, 396 N. Seguin Ave., New Braunfels, TX 78130. Applications for ballots by mail must be received no later than the close of business on October 22, 2021.

EARLY VOTING POLLING LOCATIONS: OCT.

Bexar County

Joint General, Special, Charter and Bond Election

November 8, 2022

Early Voting Dates and Hours:

■ Oct. 24– 28, 2022, 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

■ Oct. 29, Oct. 31–Nov. 4, 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

■ Oct. 30 , 12:00 – 6:00 p.m.

■ Oct. 31–Nov. 4, 2022 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Main Early Voting Location:

BEXAR COUNTY ELECTION DEPARTMENT*

1103 S. Frio

* DEAFLINK available for the hearing impaired.

Early Voting Polling Locations:

BEXAR COUNTY JUSTICE CENTER (Basement)

300 Dolorosa

Bexar County Justice Center closes at 6 p.m. and is closed on Saturday and Sunday

BROOKHOLLOW LIBRARY

530 Heimer Rd.

CASTLE HILLS CITY HALL (Community Room)

209 Lemonwood Dr.

CHRISTIAN FAMILY BAPTIST CHURCH

1589 Grosenbacher

CLAUDE BLACK CENTER 2805 East Commerce

CODY LIBRARY 11441 Vance Jackson

OLD CONVERSE CITY HALL 407 S. Seguin Rd.

COPERNICUS COMMUNITY CENTER 5003 Lord Rd.

CORTEZ BRANCH LIBRARY 2803 Hunter Blvd

EAST CENTRAL ISD (BOARDROOM) 6634 Sulphur Springs Rd.

ELMENDORF CITY HALL 8304 FM 327

ENCINO BRANCH LIBRARY 2515 East Evans Rd.

FRANK GARRETT MULTI SVC CTR 1226 N. W. 18th St.

GREAT NORTHWEST LIBRARY 9050 Wellwood

GUERRA BRANCH LIBRARY 2515 East Evans Rd.

HELOTES CITY HALL 12951 Bandera Rd.

IGO BRANCH LIBRARY 13330 Kyle Seale Parkway

JOHNSTON LIBRARY 6307 Sun Valley Dr.

KIRBY CITY HALL 112 Bauman

LAS PALMAS LIBRARY 515 Castroville Rd.

LEON VALLEY CONFERENCE CENTER 6421 Evers Rd.

LION’S FIELD 2809 Broadway

MAVERICK BRANCH LIBRARY 8700 Mystic Park

MCCRELESS LIBRARY 1023 Ada St.

MISSION BRANCH LIBRARY 3134 Roosevelt Ave.

NORTHSIDE ACTIVITY CENTER 7001 Culebra

NORTHWEST VISTA COLLEGE (Pecan Hall, RM 100) 3535 N. Ellison Drive

OLMOS PARK CITY HALL 120 El Prado W

OUR LADY OF THE LAKE UNIVERSITY (Library) 411 S. W. 24th St.

PALO ALTO COLLEGE (Ozuna Library, Rm 102)

1400 W. Villaret Blvd.

PARMAN LIBRARY @ Stone Oak 20735 Wilderness Oak

PRECINCT 1 SATELLITE OFFICE 3505 Pleasanton Rd.

PRECINCT 3 SATELLITE OFFICE

320 Interpark Blvd.

SAN ANTONIO COLLEGE (Victory Center) 6322 US Hwy 87 E

SCHAEFER BRANCH LIBRARY 6322 US Hwy 87 E.

SEMMES BRANCH LIBRARY @ Comanche Lookout Park 15060 Judson Rd.

SHAVANO PARK CITY HALL (Lobby) 900 Saddletree Ct.

SOMERSET CITY HALL 7630 E 6th St. Somerset

SOUTHSIDE ISD ADMIN. BLDG 1460 Martinez-Losoya Rd.

ST. PAUL COMMUNITY CENTER 1201 Donaldson Ave.

ST. MARY'S UNIVERSITY 1 Camino Santa Maria

TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY (MAYS CTR) One University Way

THOUSAND OAKS BRANCH LIBRARY 4618 Thousand Oaks Dr.

TOBIN LIBRARY @ Oakwell 4134 Harry Wurzbach

UNIVERSAL CITY LIBRARY 100 Northview Dr.

UTSA (Bexar Room) 1 UTSA Circle

VAN RAUB ELEMENTARY (Rock House) 8776 Dietz Elkhorn

WINDCREST TAKAS PARK CIVIC CENTER 9310 Jim Seal Dr.

WONDERLAND MALL OF THE AMERICAS @ CROSSROADS 4522 Fredericksburg

WOODLAWN POINTE CENTER FOR COMMUNITY 702 Donaldson Ave.

Last day to receive an application to vote by mail is October 26, 2022. Applications for Ballots by Mail must be received no later than the close of business on October 28, 2022.

Applications for ballot by mail shall be mailed to: Bexar County Early Voting Clerk, Jacque Callanen, 1103 S. Frio, Ste. 100, San Antonio, TX 78207. Applications for Ballots by Mail must be received no later than the close of business on October, 28, 2022. For more information contact the office of the Bexar County Elections Administrator, Jacquelyn F. Callanen, at (210) 335-VOTE (8683).

24 – NOV. 4, 2022

ELECTION DAY VOTING CENTERS: NOV. 8, 2022, 7:00 A.M. – 7:00 P.M.

Guadalupe County

VC #1 MCQUEENEY LIONS CLUB

3211 FM 78, McQueeney

VC #2 NEW LIFE FELLOWSHIP

16489 Texas Hwy 123, Seguin (previously Vogel Elementary)

VC #3 SEGUIN ISD ADMIN BLDG.

1221 E. Kingsbury, Seguin

VC #4 FOREST HILLS BAPTIST CHURCH

8251 FM 1117, Seguin

VC #5 JUSTICE OF THE PEACE COURT, PCT 1

2405 E. US Hwy 90, Seguin (previously located at 214 Medical Center, Seguin)

VC #6 KINGSBURY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

7035 FM 2438, Kingsbury

VC #7 BRICK AND BLOSSOM EVENT CENTER (STAPLES BAPTIST CHURCH)

10020 FM 621, Staples

VC #8 MARANATHA FELLOWSHIP HALL

2356 S. Hwy. 80, Luling

VC #9 TLU ALUMNI STUDENT CENTER, CONFERENCE ROOMS A/B

1109 University St., Seguin (previously Jackson Park Student Activity Center @ TLU)

VC #10 REDEMPTIVE GRACE MINISTRIES

2240 FM 725, New Braunfels

VC #11 MCQUEENEY VFW POST 9213

275 Gallagher, McQueeney

VC #12 COLUMBUS CLUB OF SEGUIN

1015 S. Austin St., Seguin

VC #13 OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE CHURCH ANNEX

730 N. Guadalupe St. Seguin

VC #15 AMERICAN LEGION HALL

618 E. Kingsbury, Seguin

VC #16 GERONIMO COMMUNITY CENTER

280 Navarro Dr., Geronimo

VC #17 ST. JOSEPH’S MISSION

5093 Redwood Rd., San Marcos

VC #18 THE SILVER CENTER

510 E. Court St., Seguin

SUBJECT TO CHANGE

VC #19 CENTRAL TEXAS TECHNOLOGY CENTER

2189 FM 758, Bldg B, Room 157, New Braunfels

VC #20 THE CROSS CHURCH 814 N. Bauer, Seguin

VC #21 SANTA CLARA CITY HALL

1653 N. Santa Clara Rd., Santa Clara

VC #22 MARION DOLFORD LEARNING CENTER

200 W. Schlather Lane, Cibolo

VC #23 SCHERTZ ELECTIONS OFFICE

1101 Elbel Rd., Schertz

VC #24 SCHERTZ UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

3460 Roy Richard Dr., Schertz

VC #25 SELMA CITY HALL 9375 Corporate Dr., Selma

VC #26 CROSSPOINT FELLOWSHIP CHURCH

2600 Roy Richard Drive, Schertz

VC #27 IMMACULATE CONCEPTION

CATHOLIC CHURCH 212 N. Barnett St., Marion

VC #28 SCHERTZ COMMUNITY CENTER 1400 Schertz Parkway, Schertz

VC #29 MIKULSKI HALL

509 Schertz Pkwy, Schertz (previously Guadalupe Co. Services Center)

VC #30 SCHERTZ COMMUNITY CENTER NORTH

3501 Morning Dr., Cibolo

VC #31 ST. JOHN’S LUTHERAN CHURCH 606 S. Center St., Marion

VC #32 NEW BERLIN CITY HALL 9180 FM 775, New Berlin

VC #33 NBISD TRANSPORTATION BLDG 2621 Klein Way, New Braunfels

VC #34 CIBOLO FIRE STATION #2

3864 Cibolo Valley Dr., Cibolo

VC #35 LIVING WATERS

WORSHIP CENTER

3325 N. State Hwy 46, Seguin

Comal County

VC #1 COMAL COUNTY SENIOR CITIZENS CENTER 710 Landa, New Braunfels

VC #2 MAMMEN FAMILY PUBLIC LIBRARY, MEETING ROOM A 131 Bulverde Crossing, Bulverde

VC #3 FREEDOM FELLOWSHIP CHURCH, FOYER 410 Oak Run Point, New Braunfels

VC #4 TYE PRESTON MEMORIAL LIBRARY 16311 South Access Rd., Canyon Lake

VC #5 CANYON SPRINGS RESORT CLUBHOUSE 691 Canyon Springs Dr., Canyon Lake

VC #6 EMERGENCY SERVICES DISTRICT NO. 4 FIRE STATION NO. 4 215 Rebecca Creek Rd., Canyon Lake

VC #7 VINTAGE OAKS AMENITY CENTER 1250 Via Principale, New Braunfels

VC #8 LAKESIDE GOLF CLUB 405 Watts Lane, Canyon Lake

VC #9 CIBOLO CREEK COMMUNITY CHURCH 30395 Ralph Fair Rd., Boerne

VC #10 PEACE LUTHERAN CHURCH, FOYER 1147 S. Walnut, New Braunfels

VC #11 CHRIST OUR KING ANGLICAN CHURCH 115 Kings Way, New Braunfels

VC #12 COMAL COUNTY OFFICES, BULVERDE ANNEX, JP 2 COURTROOM 30470 Cougar Bend, Bulverde

VC #13 GARDEN RIDGE COMMUNITY CENTER, WILDFLOWER ROOM 9500 Municipal Parkway, Garden Ridge

VC #14 BULVERDE/SPRING BRANCH FIRE & EMS @ JOHNSON RANCH 30475 Johnson Way, Bulverde

VC #15 WESTSIDE COMMUNITY CENTER, GYM 2932 S. IH 35, New Braunfels

ELECTION DAY VOTING CENTERS: NOV. 8, 2022, 7:00 A.M. – 7:00 P.M.

VC #16 CITY OF NEW BRAUNFELS, FIRE DEPARTMENT TRAINING ROOM

424 S. Castell Ave., New Braunfels

VC #17 NEW BRAUNFELS LIBRARY, LARGE MEETING ROOM

700 E. Common, New Braunfels

VC #18 COMAL COUNTY OFFICES, GOODWIN ANNEX, TRAINING ROOM

1297 Church Hill Dr., New Braunfels

VC #19 NEW BRAUNFELS CHRISTIAN CHURCH, FELLOWSHIP HALL

734 N. Loop 337, New Braunfels

VC #20 EDEN HILL, TOWN HALL 631 Lakeview Blvd, New Braunfels

VC #21 ST. FRANCIS BY THE LAKE EPISCOPAL CHURCH, LARGE ROOM

121 Spring Mountain Dr., Canyon Lake

VC #22 NORTH SHORE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

23880 N. Cranes Mill Rd, Canyon Lake

VC #23 GRUENE METHODIST CHURCH, MISSION AND OUTREACH BUILDING

2629 E. Common St., New Braunfels

VC #24 REBECCA CREEK BAPTIST CHURCH

11755 Hwy 281 N., Spring Branch

VC #25 RIVER CHASE CLUBHOUSE 436 River Chase Way, New Braunfels

Bexar County

Nearest Bexar County

Voting Centers:

VC 226 JUDSON ISD EDUCATIONAL RESOURCE CENTER 8205 Palisades Dr , Live Oak

VC 237 CORONADO VILLAGE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 213 Amistad Blvd, Universal City

VC 240 KITTY HAWK MIDDLE SCHOOL 840 Old Cimarron Trail, Universal City

VC 248 SCHERTZ FIRE STATION #3 11917 Lower Seguin Road, Schertz

VC 254 UNIVERSAL CITY HALL 2150 Universal City Blvd

VC 257 UNIVERSAL CITY LIBRARY 100 Northview Dr., Universal City

For more information contact the office of the Bexar County Elections Administrator, Jacquelyn F. Callanen, at (210) 335-VOTE (8683)..

SUBJECT TO CHANGE

ANY REGISTERED VOTER CAN VOTE ON ELECTION DAY AT ANY ELECTION DAY VOTING CENTER (VC) IN THE COUNTY IN WHICH THEY RESIDE. VISIT SCHERTZ.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

WHAT'S DEVELOPING IN SCHERTZ

Curious about what new businesses are now open or coming soon to our area? Then be sure to check out the NEW 'What's Developing in Schertz' section featured quarterly in Schertz Magazine. For the most current and up to date information you can also go to Schertz.com/whatsdeveloping.

NOW OPEN

1 / The Hidden Grove

539 Main Street

The Hidden Grove is a 2,614 square foot outdoor bar facility with an open outdoor area, outdoor stage with live bands and games, indoor bar, food trucks, plenty of TV's for watching sports, and more.

2 / Kellum Medical

3701 FM 3009

Kellum Medical is a 22,944 square foot medical office which is an expansion of Kellum Family Medicine. Kellum Physician Partners is a unique family practice facility which provides comprehensive family healthcare and aesthetics with three locations in South Texas.

3 / James Avery, Artisan Jewelry

17460 IH 35, Suite 100 (Tenant within H-E-B)

A 660 square foot James Avery retail store located within the H-E-B. James Avery has been crafting jewelry with beauty and meaning since 1954. Buy charms, rings, necklaces and more. Order online and pickup in store.

4 / Pinnacle Montessori of Schertz

21510 Old Wiederstein Road

Pinnacle Montessori is a 10,800 square foot educational school recognized for providing high-quality, traditional Montessori education for children 6 weeks to 9 years.

5 / Taco Palenque

17605 IH 35

Taco Palenque is a 3,674 square foot restaurant with drive thru. Taco Palenque offers Fresh Mex every day. Taste the authentic Mexican flavors that bring families together to share perfectly grilled fajitas and homemade salsas.

COMING SOON

6 / Slim Chickens

909 FM 3009

A 3,750 square foot restaurant. Slim Chickens is a fast-casual restaurant chain which specializes in chicken tenders, wings, sandwiches, salads, wraps, chicken & waffles, and other items.

7 / Coffee Bound

627 Savannah Drive

A 360 square foot coffee shop.

8 / The Offices at Forest Ridge

5009 Schertz Parkway

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

9 / Schertz Medical Office

17766 Verde Parkway

A 53,200 square foot medical office building.

10 / Starbucks

21550 IH 35

A 2,153 square foot Starbucks Coffee.

11 / Retail Building

21430 Old Wiederstein Road

A 5,923 square foot retail building.

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

PREPAREDNESS CHECKLIST

New Chief of Police James Lowery Focuses on Service to the Community

By: Leslie Blair

With a 39-year career with the Arlington Police Department and more than 9,000 certified hours of Texas Commission on Law Enforcement professional training in the rearview mirror, Assistant Chief of Police James Lowery headed south for the opportunity to become the Chief of Police for the City of Schertz.

Lowery assumed his new role on June 27. Although he had opportunities for positions in larger cities, Schertz was very attractive to Lowery and his family. “It’s a vibrant community,” he said.

His wife, Randi, has family in the Hill Country. They frequently visited and wanted to return to the area. And as a “military brat,” he relished the idea of living so near Randolph Air Force Base. But most important to Lowery was the small town feel of Schertz, despite its rapid growth.

“One of the things you must realize going into law enforcement is that it is relational. And if you don't realize that it is a servicebased profession, you're in the wrong profession,” said Lowery. “In a larger department, unfortunately, because of the volume of calls for service, and the need for police to be able to respond, you lose that personal touch. I believe Schertz was the perfect place for me. You still have the ability to provide services that larger departments cannot sustain, which increases our community contact and builds that relationship. But it's also a progressive city. We should be able to leverage a lot of technology and move this department forward.”

Leading by Example

In addition to overseeing the administrative and operational aspects of the department, the chief of police sets the tone for

the department, influencing the culture and goals of the unit.

During his first two weeks on the job, Lowery took to the streets in uniform, even making a routine traffic stop, baffling the dispatcher who couldn’t believe the chief of police made a traffic stop. That stop, by the way, served as an educational moment for the driver as Chief Lowery did not issue a citation.

More recently when Chief Lowery took to the streets again, there was a call regarding a suspicious person. He talked with a resident, explained the situation, and asked if the neighbor had seen anyone. They had not but the next day the department received an email complimenting the chief. The resident had never seen the chief of police out on a call for service before and ended up thanking Chief Lowery for “being out there and leading by example.” Lowery never wants to get to the point where he thinks being out in the community, engaging in community police work, is beneath him.

He believes it is vital that officers invest in what he calls the guardian mindset. “We are the guardians of our community. We must be engaged. We are part of the community, and the community is even more part of

continued on page 34

We are the guardians of our community. We must be engaged. We are part of the community, and the community is even more part of our police department.

New Chief of Police James Lowery Focuses on Service to the Community

continued from page 33

our police department. That’s where we gain our direction and authority to act; without the communities’ trust we would not be able to be effective,” he said. True to his guardian philosophy, the most rewarding moments on the job have come when he has saved lives. In his long career, he is most proud of the three awards he received for saving lives, among a list of many others including three Distinguished Service Awards and three Community Service Awards.

When asked if he has “seen it all” in law enforcement, he responds, “You may think you have seen it all, but you have not, you just see it less frequently.”

Chief Lowery does believe that one of the most significant problems in law enforcement is the high rate of suicide and the need for mental health care for officers. “What we see in one to two years is more than most people will see in their lifetime,” said Lowery.

Although Schertz experiences very little violent crime, it has its share of property crimes, primarily burglaries and motor vehicle theft. Currently the theft of catalytic converters is a problem.

One of the main challenges for Chief Lowery and the Schertz PD is one that is common nationwide—recruiting and retaining personnel. He manages a staff of 70 officers and currently has five openings. Lowery explains that because Schertz isn’t large enough to have its own academy, the department relies upon hiring officers who have some experience or who have already been through the police academy on their own. In turn, these officers often stay 5 to 7

years, gaining valuable experience, and then move on. Some leave for personal reasons; others have been recruited by surrounding law enforcement agencies. Because Schertz hires quality people, other agencies often try to recruit from the department, something Lowery views as positive. “It speaks highly for the men and women of the department,” he explains.

Shared Decision Making is Part of Lowery’s Style

Since the department has been under transition due to the retirement of the police chief and assistant police chief, Lowery admits the loss of historical knowledge is significant. “I'm now leaning on a lower rank, if you will. But I will say this, they have been quite impressive. And they are offering me a perspective that I found to be very refreshing and honest. Their candor is appreciated,” he said. “I'm trying to learn about the city and the historical decisions that were made, and why we are where we are now.”

The Chief is a strong believer in “management by wandering around,” and believes that being genuine and sincere is key to building relationships. He tries to take time each day to visit with police department employees, even if it just saying a quick hello. He also likes engaging others in decision making. “I'm a firm believer that unless it's life or death, I like to have time and I like to engage my people and senior staff to have their input. So, when a decision is made, it most likely will provide a long-term solution rather than a short-term solution. I believe the more people you have involved in that decision the better solution you will have, because the stakeholders had a voice and understand why the decisions made,” he said. “They're going to be advocates for you to ensure that it's done successfully, whatever the issue is,” Lowery explains.

Chief Lowery’s career leading the Schertz PD is in its early stages. Time will show the ways his influence will shape and grow the department, but until then, look for Chief Lowery out and about town, visiting community meetings and schools, monitoring the pulse of Schertz and its people, leading by example.

Bond Funds Issued to Revitalize Main Street

By: Kira Villarreal

Schertz residents who have been in the area for more than a few years have no doubt noticed a transformation taking place on Main Street. Since 2019, the area has undergone a revitalization, including improvements to streets, sidewalks, and parking, installation of public art, and renovation of older buildings. It has also welcomed many new businesses, giving the community lots of great new reasons to come downtown.

This month, the Main Street project begins its final phase, with a recent issuance by the Schertz City Council of $3.25 million in bond funds which has increased the total project budget to $10.5 million and expanded the scope of the project. The funds allocated for the Main Street project were part of a larger community investment of approximately $19.8 million in bond funds, which will include work to improve the reliability and availability of water services to the residents and to improve traffic flows along FM 1518, in addition to the work on Main Street.

The latest phase of the Main Street project will include some needed improvements to older infrastructure, including replacing an old water main and sewer line and undergrounding the overhead utilities. Also included in this work will be a reconstruction of the street (a more extensive overhaul than the originally planned mill and overlay) which will replace deeper layers of the street to ensure that the subsurface retains its integrity after the underground utility work is completed.

This latest phase of the project will involve the entire length of Main Street, from Schertz Parkway to Lindberg Avenue. Additionally, the project will incorporate some street surface work on Lindberg Avenue where it intersects with Main Street, and will also improve the median, handle some of the drainage, and provide more on-street parking.

For area residents, the most impactful and readily apparent changes to the Main Street area will be the removal of the utility poles and the overhead power lines, which are now clearly visible on the street, but will be moved underground to give the area a cleaner and more pleasant atmosphere.

Schertz City Council approved the revised scope of the project with the design engineer at a council meeting in early September. Once the final designs are complete, the City will bid out the project and secure a contractor for the construction work, which is expected to begin sometime in 2023. Assistant City Manager Brian James notes that the exact timeline hasn’t been determined, as there are several factors that need to be considered.

“Supply chain challenges have been an ongoing issue for the past several years,” said James. It’s also our primary goal to complete this work in a way that minimizes the impact to the existing businesses and residents on Main Street, even if that means that the work may take a bit longer to complete.”

In the past year, residents may have also noticed several new businesses which now call Main Street home. These include the

continued on page 38

We have always envisioned it as a place where people would choose to spend their weekends and leisure time, and even a destination for people from surrounding cities.

Bond Funds Issued to Revitalize Main Street

continued from page 37

Hidden Grove Bar, Frost Bite Soft Serve, and Mexican restaurant Las Pinchachas #2. These new establishments join a growing number of businesses that have moved into the downtown area since 2019, giving people more reasons to visit in their leisure time to enjoy dining and shopping amidst the new and improved historic area. Much of this growth has also been spurred by grant programs designed to help attract new business to the area as part of the Main Street project.

Plans are already in the works for some other new businesses, including a food truck park and a mixed-use commercial building at the corner of Schertz Parkway and Main, which will be the first sizeable new building to be constructed in the area in years.

According to Brian James, Main Street is now living up to the vision that the city has long held for the area. “When we began this work, Main Street was a place where people went Monday through Friday during work hours, but we had always envisioned it as a place where people would choose to spend their weekends and leisure time, and even a destination for people from surrounding cities,” he said. “Now if you go downtown at 10 o’clock on a Friday night you’ll see lots of activity going on. It has been quite a transformation.”

James also notes that the project has not been without its challenges. Since the initial phases of construction began in 2019, the City has had to deal with the Covid-19 pandemic, supply chain issues and product shortages, and the unique problems that can arise when dealing with aging infrastructure.

Despite the challenges, most people who have seen the transformed Main Street area will agree that the project has greatly enhanced downtown Schertz, breathing new life into the area, and restoring much of the street’s former glory.

For more information on the Main Street improvement project and other community improvements, please visit Schertz.com.

Halloween Safety tips

Walk Safely

■ Cross the street at corners, using traffic signals and crosswalks.

■ Look left, right and then left again when crossing and continue looking as you cross.

■ Put electronic devices down and keep heads up and walk, don’t run, across the street.

■ Teach children to make eye contact with drivers before crossing in front of them.

■ Always walk on sidewalks or paths. If there are no sidewalks, walk facing traffic as far to the left as possible. Children should walk on direct routes with the fewest street crossings.

■ Watch for cars that are turning or backing up. Teach children to never dart out into the street or cross between parked cars.

Trick or Treat with an Adult

■ Children under the age of 12 should not be alone at night without adult supervision. If kids are mature enough to be out without supervision, they should stick to familiar areas that are well lit and trick-or-treat in groups.

Keep Costumes Creative and Safe

■ Decorate costumes and bags with reflective tape or stickers and, if possible, choose light colors.

■ Choose face paint and makeup whenever possible instead of masks, which can obstruct a child’s vision.

■ Have kids carry glow sticks or flashlights to help them see and be seen by drivers.

■ When selecting a costume, make sure it is the right size to prevent trips and falls.

Drive Extra Safely on Halloween

■ Slow down and be especially alert in residential neighborhoods. Children are excited on Halloween and may move in unpredictable ways.

■ Take extra time to look for kids at intersections, on medians and on curbs.

■ Enter and exit driveways and alleys slowly and carefully.

■ Eliminate any distractions inside your car so you can concentrate on the road and your surroundings.

■ Drive slowly, anticipate heavy pedestrian traffic and turn your headlights on earlier in the day to spot children from greater distances.

■ Popular trick-or-treating hours are 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. so be especially alert for kids during those hours.

AROUND THE COMMUNITY

RACAP Holiday Meal Basket Assistance Program 2022

The Randolph Area Christian Assistance Program (RACAP) will accept applications for the Thanksgiving/Christmas holiday meal basket assistance program through November 16, 2022. Thanksgiving applications will be accepted through October 28, 2022 and the deadline for Christmas is November 16, 2022. Applications from families in need of help for the holidays because of limited or no income, who are at or below the Federal Poverty Guidelines, will be accepted.

RACAP is seeking financial donations to cover the cost of its Holiday Meal Basket Program. Donations from churches, businesses, groups or individuals are greatly appreciated and are being accepted now. Please make all donations payable to RACAP and designate on the check that the donation is specifically for the “General Fund”. Donations designated for the “General Fund” allow RACAP to use excess funds in any area, once the Holiday Program is fully funded. Please visit racap.org to donate or obtain further information.

Families who reside in our zip code service areas (78108, 78109, 78124, 78148, 78154, 78132, 78233 (Live Oak only), 78247, and 78266) and meet income qualifications are eligible. Applications

are available at the RACAP office, 307 Pfeil St., Schertz, starting September 19, 2022. If anyone knows of a family in need of this special assistance, have them call 658-1613.

Churches, businesses, groups or individuals who would like to sponsor a family/families for Thanksgiving and/or Christmas should contact RACAP or visit racap.org to obtain the Sponsor Application.

For information on how to apply or how to help, call RACAP at (210) 658-1613 or visit racap.org.

Peter F. Holmes MD Board Certified in Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Sports Medicine

Kathren McCarty, DPM Board Certified in Reconstructive Foot and Ankle Surgery

for Samuel Clemens and Byron P. Steele High Schools

Fall Happenings

FUMC Seguin Pumpkin Patch 2022

The First United Methodist Church Pumpkin Patch in Seguin is in full swing. Lots of pumpkins and lots of photo opportunities. Puppies (to adopt) & pumpkins and a blessing of the animals will be 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 8. No admission fee. The Pumpkin Patch will remain open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 7:00 p.m. Sundays in October. For more information call (830) 379-4112 or go to fumcseguin.com and Facebook FUMC Seguin Pumpkin Patch.

Garden Ridge Market Days

Join Garden Ridge Market Days every second Saturday for the largest FREE, family-friendly pop-up market in the San Antonio area! Enjoy 150+ local vendors, sweet treats, live music, free kid's activities, and more. Enjoy tons of food & fun while shopping a wide selection of local farm-fresh produce and microgreens, canned goods, boutique clothing, home decor, grass-fed beef, nuts, honey, oils, jams, plants/succulents, breads, food, BBQ sauce, salsa, sweet treats, pet vendors, chili, custom tumblers, laser engraved items, granola, candles, jewelry, bath products, woodwork, crafts and MORE! Free to attend, free parking, free kids activities, friendly dogs welcome on leash (outdoors only). The market runs from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and is located at Northeast Bible Church (19185 FM 2252, Garden Ridge, TX). For more information visit gardenridgemarketdays.com.

Main Street Commons Market

Head down to Main Street for the Main Street Commons Market on Saturday, October 15 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Check out beautiful handmade items and good from local vendors. There will be food, fall photo opportunities, and fun for the entire family! The market will be located at 816 Main St. Interested vendors can text (210) 577-9748.

VFW Auxiliary Annual Holiday Craft/Gift Sale

The VFW Auxiliary will be holding their annual Holiday Craft/Gift Sale on Saturday, October 29. They will also be holding their fall car show the same day. Go shop for that special unique gift! Snack bar on site. Vendors email vfwaux8315@gmail.com or call/text Joyce Scarlett at (830) 491-5767 for vendor instructions.

Schertz-Cibolo Local Vendor Extravaganza

Shop local and head on out to the Schertz-Cibolo Local Vendor Extravaganza on Saturday, October 8 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Schertz United Methodist Church located at 3460 Roy Richard Drive. Small business, direct sales, handmade crafts, boutique, health & wellness, yummy treats, and more!

Bracken UMC Pumpkin Patch

Every year, Bracken United Methodist Church has a large pumpkin patch. This year, the pumpkin patch will open on Friday, September 30 at 20377 FM 2252. The hours are 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Stroll through the patch and enjoy games for all ages, train and hayrides, and plenty of photo opportunities! For more information visit brackenumc.org.

Bracken UMC Fall Festival

Bracken United Methodist Church will hold its Fall Festival on Saturday, October 22 from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. at 20377 FM 2252. The event will include games for preschool and school-age children, a hayride, train ride, bounce house, food, fundraiser, music, and silent auction. For more information visit brackenumc.org.

Tony & Tabitha Shepherd, Steve & Candace Schwab, Denny & Laura Lorenzo, and Matt & Laura Beth Garcia took their Schertz Magazine on a trip to Belize City, Belize.

Thaddeus and Anne Chase visited the Golden Staircase at the HungarianParliamentwiththeir SchertzMagazine.

David and Jovette Muniz took their SchertzMagazine on vacation to Isabella, Puerto Rico.

Chuck and Sherry Cornelisse visited The St. Vitus Cathedral in Prague, Czech Republic and took their Schertz Magazine.

LOOKING BACK QUOTE

OF NOTE

“Don’t raise your voice, improve your argument.”

– Anonymous

LOCAL HISTORY

Cotton proved to be a hearty and cash-producing crop for Schertz. Therefore, a need for a cotton gin in the area for cotton harvesting was in need. The first gin was built by Sebastian Schertz in 1870.

TEXAS HISTORY

136th Texas State Fair – “Big Tex” is the world’s tallest 55-foot cowboy icon and is our official greeter “Howdy, Folks.” His public debut was at the 1952 Fair. From September 30 to October 23, Texas will be celebrating Lone Stare pride, heritage/culture, agriculture, education, and community. Since 1929, is the annual Cotton Bowl tradition of the Texas Longhorns vs Oklahoma Sooners showdown game. “Hook ‘em Horns” is our chant. The Fair partners with 200 exhibitors and 80 small businesses to serve new creations and exciting food/beverages every year. Vendors work year-round to be the recipient of the Big Texas Choice Awards-that honors the top dishes in the sweet, savory, and creative categories. The big vendors/winners can make $500,000 to over $1M. It is hard work with 16-hour days and employs many in each booth. A malfunction or lack of help can bring disaster. Image serving 30 people in 5 minutes–what a rush! The key to a booth’s survival is good customer service and a ready product. Visitors spend $37M on coupons. In 2021, the Fair welcomed more than 2.2M visitors. At the end of each day, vendors carry a large metal box full of coupons to a scale that tells them exactly how much money they made that day-hoping to win the grand prize at the end of the Fair. Enjoy your State Fair-it is the best, the longest-running, and the largest in the nation! It is not to be missed.

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

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

Give a gift of history and learn about the history of –Schertz, Texas – A Photo History (136 pages) may be purchased at the Schertz Visitor Center and Library for $35.00.

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

CITY CALENDAR

Where Home Means More Than Square Footage

Grow your square footage beyond the walls of your home with the Army Residence Community’s three dining rooms, superb sky lounge, various card / activity rooms and so much more. Then you’ll have extra savings and an open-floor plan home with modern upgrades to make your own!

And right now, you can take advantage of significant savings through the Army Residence Community Charter Club. Charter benefits include:

• Up to $24,000 Entrance Fee Discount (based on unit choice)

• Moving Allowance

• Personalized Renovation Allowance

• Charter Club Membership

• Second Person Fee Discount

• Home Warming Celebration

• Maintenance Assistance

The ARC welcomes all officers, retired or honorably discharged from all branches of service, warrant officers, as well as senior level GS 14 and above federal employees, who are at least 62 years old, to include spouses and surviving spouses.