September 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! September is here, and school has started. All the Fall activities have begun, including high school sports. I love this time of year when fall sports begin anew! It is a great time to be in the City of Schertz.

Our magazine this month has loads of information and many great articles. We look at our Neighborhood Services Division and all the hard work they do to make our community a safer and more enjoyable place. This was formerly called Code Enforcement, but we have changed the name to reflect a more appropriate way of doing business which is working with our residents to gain compliance with our ordinances. One of their initiatives is the new Community Tool Shed to allow folks to check out tools for tasks around the house.

We are also proud to include the Fall/Winter Schertz Parks & Recreation FUN Guide that will highlight our many activities over the next few months. Of course, the holidays are not far away, and we look forward to an outstanding holiday event at City Hall and the night parade again this year.

September is National Preparedness Month which focuses on getting your emergency plan together for bad weather or other situations, and we will be hosting the first-ever emergency preparedness event at City Hall on September 24, titled “Get Prepped!” We are excited to offer this event to the community. We will have information booths, tours, emergency preparedness demos, giveaways, food, and more! We hope you will come out and take advantage of this event and help prepare your family!

Finally, I want to wish everyone a Happy Labor Day as the summer season concludes and we head into Fall. We hope you have a wonderful holiday. Best wishes to all!

SEPTEMBER 2022

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, Sarah Gonzalez, Kira Villarreal, Holly Malish, Cassandra Paddock, Lizzi Bertoia, Anna Kraft, Rebecca Vera, Kate Whyte

Contributing Photographers

Linda Klepper, Devan Christensen, Stacey Lovett, Donna Coburn, Joe Herczeg, Faith Strange, Carrie Bradfield

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.

Dr. Mark Browne City Manager

mbrowne@schertz.com

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.

ON THE COVER

The Schertz Neighborhood Services Division provides education and enforcement services to the public in order to minimize environmental and consumer health hazards.

City Headlines

Schertz is Leading the Way

The City of Schertz recently received its second Leading the Way Award from the ETC Institute. The award was created by Chris Tatham, CEO and Owner of ETC Institute, to recognize local governments for outstanding achievement in the delivery of services to residents. Recipients of the award rank in the top 10% of all local governments in the United States with regard to their composite performance in three core areas that are assessed on ETC Institute’s DirectionFinder Survey:

■ satisfaction with overall quality of services

■ satisfaction with customer service provided by employees, and

■ satisfaction with the value residents think they receive for their local taxes and fees.

In addition to ranking in the top 10% overall, the City of Schertz rated in the top 10% of all cities in the following areas as well:

■ Wastewater/sanitary sewer services

■ Feeling of safety in neighborhoods

■ Animal control services

■ How well the community is managing growth

Over the past five years, the City of Schertz has conducted three Citizen Satisfaction Surveys to measure how well the City is meeting the needs of residents and to gain valuable feedback regarding City programs and services. ETC Institute, which was contracted by the City to conduct the 2016 and 2019 surveys, recently conducted the City's third Citizen Satisfaction Survey in 2021. The survey was mailed, emailed, and texted to randomly selected households and holds a margin of error of 4.7%. The results of the most recent survey continue to indicate that most residents were “very satisfied” or “satisfied” with the overall quality of services provided by the City of Schertz.

We are incredibly honored to receive this award again and we are so proud of the services that City staff provide to our residents.

2021-2022 SCHERTZ SWEETHEART COURT TAKES THEIR FINAL BOW

■ Miss Schertz - Olivia Coats

■ Miss Jubilee – Reagan Cabe

■ Miss Friendly City – Hailey Skorbarcek

■ Miss Sunshine – Nina Guastafierro

On behalf of the City of Schertz and the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department, we want to thank our Sweethearts for all their service and their commitment to their community over the years. We wish you all well in your future endeavors.

ED-ZOO-CATION IN THE PARK

San Antonio Zoo Center for Conservation and Research is coming Crescent Bend Nature Park and educating the community about Texas Horned Lizards. Come and learn about the conservation of the Amazonian rainforest on September 17 at 10 a.m. If this program is not already cool enough, there is also an opportunity for appearances of live animals from the zoo!

NATURE DISCOVERY SERIES

The 2022 Nature Discovery Series Schedule is back! The program is designed for families with elementaryaged children, but older and younger siblings are welcome too! Texas Master Naturalist volunteers lead the themed programs held at 9:30 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.

Sep 10

Oct 8

Nov 12

Discover Horns and Thorns: Staying alive is tough

Discover Dinosaur Tracks: Tracks tell tales

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

RENT A PARK FACILITY NOW WITH

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. CivicRec 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

Go to Schertz.com to log on to CivicRec today to join in on all of the FUN to be had!

GOLF Tournament 12th Annual

Don’t miss the 12th Annual Hal Baldwin Golf Tournament coming up this November!

This scholarship tournament was established in 2008 to encourage high school seniors who are residents of Schertz to consider public service as a career path. It honors Hal Baldwin who served the city for more than 30 years as a civic volunteer, employee, Council member and then Mayor.

Registration and Sponsorship information is available at Schertz.com or by calling (210) 619-1850.

BENEFITTING

YOUTH PROGRAM REGISTRATION

Attendance is FREE, but we do ask that you sign up in advance (or be prepared to sign in at the door). To register, visit our program calendar at Schertz.com/ youthcalendar, choose the program you plan to attend, and click on register.

STUDY ROOMS

The Schertz Public Library has 10 individual study rooms and 2 group study rooms available during library operating hours. The study rooms are available on a first come, first served basis. The library does not reserve the rooms. If you are needing to reserve a larger space, contact the library to complete a meeting room reservation.

STORY & SWIM TIME

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 10:00 - 11:30 A.M.

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.

LEGO® LAB

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 3 10:15 - 11:15 A.M.

LIBRARY CARD SIGN-UP MONTH

September is Library Card Sign-up Month, when libraries nationwide join the American Library Association (ALA) to remind parents, caregivers, and students that signing up for a library card is the first step on the path to academic achievement and lifelong learning. Library Staff will be at various locations throughout the community during September. Look for us and sign up for a card or renew your current one! There’s no charge for Texas residents, but you will need a photo ID and current proof of residence.

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.

PROGRAMS & SERVICES

SCRAPBOOK AND PAPER CRAFTING CROP

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 12:00 P.M.

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.

MEDICARE 101 PRESENTATION WITH TEXAS MEDICARE SOLUTIONS

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 6:00 P.M.

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.

QIGONG EXERCISE CLASS AT THE LIBRARY

MONDAYS 10:30 A.M.

SCHERTZ AREA GENEALOGISTS MEETING

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 6:30 P.M.

The Schertz Area genealogists meet 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.

POETRY OPEN MIC

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 6:30 P.M.

Join us for a relaxed and friendly open mic poetry night on Thursday, September 11th 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. The library holds an open mic event once a month on the second Thursday.

Qigong at the library is intended for adults 18+ and led by local certified instructor, Jennifer of Jennifer Eash Yoga. The program will be held each Monday in September, except Labor Day at 10:30 a.m. in the Library Program Room. No additional equipment is required. Visit the calendar for more details and pre-registration information at Schertz.com/adultcalendar.

TEEN TUESDAYS

TUESDAYS 4:30 -6:30 P.M.

All teens, ages 13-18 are welcome to come hang out at the library. Activities vary from week to week - sometimes we game, sometimes we watch movies, sometimes we art... you help decide. Registration required at Schertz.com/youthcalendar.

ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE CLASSES (ESL)

WEDNESDAYS 10:00 -11:30 A.M.

The library is offering ESL Pronunciation Classes this Fall for adult learners. Each Wednesday in September from 10:00 -11:30 a.m. in Meeting Room 1. This will be a continuous 6-week ESL course that will

assist learners with refining pronunciation to improve speaking and listening.

PRESCHOOL STORYTIME

TUESDAYS AND WEDNESDAYS 11:00 A.M. Preschool Storytimes are appropriate for children ages 3-6 years with an accompanying adult. This program is a language-rich experience with books and songs for children who are getting ready for school. Siblings are welcome to attend. Registration required at Schertz.com/ youthcalendar.

TODDLER STORYTIME

TUESDAYS AND WEDNESDAYS 10:15 A.M. AND THURSDAYS 11:00 A. M.

Toddler Storytime is for library users between the ages of 20 months to 3 years with an accompanying adult. We will get moving as we share fingerplays, songs, books, and rhymes. Siblings are welcome to attend. Registration required at Schertz. com/youthcalendar.

BABY & ME STORYTIME

THURSDAYS 10:15 A.M.

Baby & Me Storytime is for our youngest library users, from birth to 24 months with an accompanying adult. We will share songs, rhymes, bounces, and books. Storytime is followed by a short period of time for parents and caregivers to chat and socialize with each other. Siblings are welcome to attend. Registration required at Schertz.com/youthcalendar.

SEW LET IT BEE: LIBRARY QUILT BEE

2ND TUESDAY AND 3RD SATURDAY

Join us for a few fun hours of quilting! The Quilt Bee meets on the second Tuesday and third Saturday of each month in Library Meeting Room 1. The bee is perfect for advanced quilters as well as those interested in getting started! Join us Tuesday, September 13 from 12 – 3 p.m. and Saturday, September 17 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Visit the calendar for more details at Schertz.com/adultcalendar.

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

Annual Fall Clean-Up

September 10 – 25, 2022

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 September 10 – 25, 2022. Hazardous items and tires may only be dropped off on the weekend of September 17 – 18. Drop offs may be made at the Republic Services temporary collection point, 125 Pecan Drive, Schertz, TX 78154 between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. daily. Please follow entry and exit signs, and guidance from the staff manning the event. ENTRY TO THIS SITE IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO RESIDENTS DURING THIS CITY SPONSORED FALL 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 Fall Clean-Up is restricted to Schertz residents only. Fall 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. Appliances 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.

3. Older big-screen TVs and tube TVs WILL NOT be accepted.

Hazardous Items/Tires Drop Off

September 17 – 18

8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Hazardous Items/Tires and Drop off Times

1. HAZARDOUS ITEMS and TIRES may be dropped off ONLY on the weekend of September 17 – 18, 2022.

2. Tires are limited to eight (8) per household.

3. Hazardous waste includes but is not limited to:

a. Insecticides, 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 used 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 Fall 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.

City Headlines 20 YEARS

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 a milestone 20 years of service in their City careers. Steve Solitto, Patti Casas, Aaron Dammann, Virgil Jones, and Jimmy Corrales had the honor of being recognized at the August 9 Schertz City Council Meeting. Please join us in congratulating these employees on this major accomplishment!

STEVE SOLITTO

Police Sergeant Steve Solitto started his career with the City of Schertz in 2002. He began as a patrol officer with the Schertz Police Department and was promoted to Corporal in 2006 and Sgt. in 2009. During his career, Solitto spent time in investigations where he was part of the Internet Crimes Against Children task force. He also served as a School Resource Officer from 2014-15. In June 2015 he returned to Patrol until 2019 when he was moved to the Animal Services division. After a year at the Animal Adoption Center, he moved back to Patrol where he is the Sergeant over the dayshift. Throughout his time at Schertz PD Solitto has been involved in a number of projects including, E-Citation, CAD, RMS, sign trailers, and currently he is in charge of the Honor Guard.

Solitto grew up in Portland, Texas and attended Southwest Texas State University for a few years before settling in San Antonio in 1996. In 1997 he joined the Bexar County Sheriff's Office where he attended both the jail and peace officer academies. In his free time Solitto enjoys rock crawling and working on his jeep. He is the president of San Antonio Jeep Exclusive and is a trail guide for Jeep Jamboree USA.

PATTI CASAS

Patti Casas joined the City of Schertz in May of 2002 as the deputy court clerk. She was quickly promoted to a leadership role in the court where she manages and plans the operations of the court and assists the judge in certain decisions. In June 2010 she earned her Level I Clerk Certification and earned her Level II Clerk Certification in November 2015. In 2016 she was one of 45 clerks in Texas that completed the Institute for Court Manager program and became a Certified Court Manager with the National Center for State Courts.

Casas is married and has two daughters and a son. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family and crafting. She also enjoys event planning for weddings, small event parties or just a fun luncheon.

AARON DAMMANN

Aaron Dammann began his career with the Schertz Public Works Department in June 2002. Dammann is currently a Serviceman II in the Water/Wastewater division and is responsible for repairing water mains, maintaining and servicing lift stations, and ensuring the sewer collection system continues operating correctly. He also helps citizens with any concerns like water leaks, pressure issues, or sewer concerns. As a result of Aaron’s dedication and teamwork, he earned Public Works Employee of the Quarter in 2021.

Dammann was born in Seguin, Texas and is a graduate of Samuel Clemens High School. He has been married to his wife Kaylee for more than 15 years and they love spending time caring for their rescue dogs and taking trips to Rockport. Dammann earned his Eagle Scout growing up and is also a Past Master of the Guadalupe Masonic Lodge #109 in Seguin, Texas. He enjoys welding, visiting state and local parks, and making YouTube videos of different things.

VIRGIL JONES

Lt. Virgil Jones started with the Schertz Police Department in June 2002. He began his career as a patrol officer and worked his way up to Corporal, Seargent and finally Lieutenant. Jones has worked in a variety of roles along the way but has spent most of his career in investigations. Currently, Jones is the Support Services Lt. which oversees Dispatch, IT, and the Records Division. During his career, Jones earned his Master Peace Officer License and became certified in Accident Reconstruction. He also earned his AACOG Investigator Certificate and won Detective of the Year four years in a row.

Jones is a native to the San Antonio area and is a graduate of Marshall High School. He is also working on his degree in Criminal Justice. Jones started his career in law enforcement with the Bexar County Sheriff's Office and eventually went on to work for the City of Balcones Heights and finally Schertz Police Department. He is married and has one son and one daughter and in his free time he enjoys reading science fiction novels.

JIMMY CORRALES

Jimmy Corrales joined the city of Schertz Fire Department in May of 2002 as a Firefighter/Paramedic. He had always known he wanted to be a firefighter and after graduating High School in 1986 he went to EMT school to work as a paramedic. Corrales worked for various private ambulance companies from 1987-2000 while working his way through EMT Intermediate school and later EMT Paramedic School at U.T.H.S.C in 1993. After graduating from the Fire Academy at San Antonio College in 1999, he began his fire career with the Universal City Fire Dept. Shortly after he started at Schertz Fire Rescue as part of the ‘C’ shift assigned to Capt. Harry Hewlett.

Corrales currently resides in the San Antonio area and enjoys spending time with his family. He also enjoys reading, hunting, fishing, and sometimes spends time building ship models. He always tries to serve God in everything he does and would like to focus on more personal bible study in his free time as well.

Jimmy retired this month and we wish him all the best in retirement!.

Gearing Up for the General Election

City of Schertz will be holding a Joint General Election on November 8, 2022 to elect a Mayor and Councilmembers in Places 1 and 2 for a three-year term from November 2022 and ending November 2025. Early voting begins October 24, 2022 and ends November 4, 2022. The last day to submit a voter registration application in time to vote at the November 8, 2022, election or for requesting a transfer of registration is Tuesday, October 11, 2022. Early voting locations will be posted on Schertz.com under Election Information.

Locations and times can also be found at:

■ Comal Website - www.co.comal.tx.us/Elections.htm

■ Bexar Website - www.bexar.org/1568/Elections-Department

■ Guadalupe Website - www.co.guadalupe.tx.us/elections/

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the City Secretary’s office at (210) 619-1030.

DATES TO REMEMBER

OCTOBER 11 Last day to register

OCTOBER 24 Early Voting begins

NOVEMBER 4 Early Voting ends

NOVEMBER 8 Election Day

VOTING 101: What You Need to Know

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I’m not sure if I’m registered; how can I confirm my voter registration status?

A: You can confirm your registration status by going to votetexas. gov and clicking on "Am I Registered?" where you will select one of three methods for conducting your search. You can base your search on: 1. your Voter Unique Identifier (VUID), which appears on your voter registration certificate; 2. your Texas driver's license number, if you provided it when you applied for voter registration; or 3. your first and last name. Or you can call the voter registrar’s office in the county where you reside.

Q: Who is eligible to vote early? What are the dates for voting early in person?

A: Any registered voter may vote early by personal appearance (in person). Early voting by personal appearance for the November 8, 2022 election begins on October 24, 2022, and ends on November 4, 2022. You may vote at any early voting location in your county of registration.

Q: It’s election day, November 8, 2022, and I’m registered and ready to vote and have what I need to bring to the polls. Where do I go? What are the hours for voting on election day?

A: You will be able to find election day voting locations by contacting the County Election Official in your county or by visiting your county's election website. Another way to find locations is by searching the votetexas.gov website under “Am I Registered?”, which will be populated with voting sites a few days before election day. The hours of voting on election day are 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Q: Do I need to bring my voter certificate/card? Will I be able to vote without it?

A: While you do not need to bring your voter registration certificate with you to vote, it is highly recommended that you have it with you at the polling place. If you do not have your voter registration certificate, please bring one of the seven acceptable forms of ID. Please note that you may contact your county voter registrar’s office to obtain a replacement registration certificate. our county voter registrar’s office to obtain a replacement registration certificate.

Student Voting Away From Home

If you’re a student who spends several weeks or months a year in different locations but wants to vote in Texas, you’ll need to decide which place in Texas is the place you call “home,” i.e., where you intend to return after you’ve been away. If you consider your parents’ address to be your permanent residence, you may use that address as your registration address. If you would like to register to vote at your college address, you may do so, but you can’t be registered in both places. Remember, once you’re registered you must vote at a voting location in the county of your residence. If you will not be in the county where you are registered then you can request an early voting ballot be sent to the address where you are physically planning to be at election time (e.g., at school). To complete this process, you must fill out an early voting ballot request application which can be found on votetexas.gov.

National Preparedness Month

LET’S GET READY SCHERTZ!

Start with basic items such as food and water.

It is recommended to keep a 3-day supply of food and water on hand and available in the event of a disaster. A 3-day supply would include 1 gallon of water per person per day. Consider additional needs such as mixing formulas or medications and whether that would affect the amount you need for a 3-day supply.

Recommended food items include non-perishable items that are high in nutrition. Protein bars, beef jerky, and canned items that can be easily opened are good choices. Include important documents such as birth certificates, copies of driver's licenses, wills, insurance documents, lists of medications, etc. that may be needed an unavailable if you must leave the area or your home

Include a copy of your communication plan with written phone numbers for immediate friends and family. This should include a couple of out-oftown contacts in case you are only able to get messages out of the area.

PRACTICE THE PLAN!

Take time to sit down with your family and review your communications, sheltering, and evacuation plan. Practice escaping from your home and where you will meet in the event

Practice planning to take shelter in your home, gathering your items and taking other necessary actions to protect yourselves.

Time how long it takes you to gather the people and items in your home, contact your evacuation point, and get settled in the car.

Each of these actions will make a difference in your family’s ability to be prepared. To continue your preparedness efforts, please join us for our National Preparedness Month –“Get Prepped Emergency Preparedness Block Party”!

This event will be held Saturday, September 24 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. in our Municipal Complex at 1400 Schertz Parkway and will feature fire, police, EMS, emergency management, animal control, water, public works, and community partners active during disasters. Please take the day to come out and “Get Prepped” for all hazards that may affect you here in the City of Schertz. We will have plenty of giveaways, information, and food!

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS BLOCK PARTY

DEMOS & TOURS

SEPTEMBER 24

10 AM - 2 PM

hal baldwin

municipal complex

BREAKOUT SESSIONS

TOUCH-A-TRUCK

FOOD & ACTIVITIES

GIVEAWAYS

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Cibolo

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City Headlines

Child Passenger Safety

Week: September 18-24

When it comes to the safety of our children, there are many things we think about including water safety, protecting them from falls, and stranger danger. One of the biggest things for parents to think about is their child's safety when they are a passenger in the vehicle. A child's age, weight, and height all play a factor when determining the correct child seat to use. Therefore, it is essential to keep up to date with all current laws, regulations, and suggestions.

Did you know that more than half of car seats are installed incorrectly? As a result, car crashes are the leading cause of preventable deaths and injuries to a child. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the use of child car safety seats in passenger vehicles, when used correctly, reduces the risk of death by 71% for infants and by 54% for toddlers ages 1 to 4 years.

September 18-24 is Child Passenger Safety Week, and the Schertz Police Department would like to provide our community with a few car seat safety tips to protect your most adorable and precious cargo.

1. Buy the right car seat.

It is recommended for your baby to ride rear-facing for as long as possible until two or more years. Then, you are ready to move to a forward-facing car seat when they outgrow that seat.

2. Installing your car seat.

There are two ways to install your car seat: the seatbelt or the LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children). Do not use both!

3. Getting the right fit.

A properly fitted harness will give the best protection to your child. It would be best to correctly place the harness on your child to get the right fit. The buckles must be sitting in the right place and the straps must be snug. You must do a "pinch test to ensure the correct snugness."

4. When to change your car seat.

Check the label on your current car seat and make sure your child is at the correct weight, height, and age limit.

If you need help with your child's seat, on Saturday, September 24, the Schertz Police Department is teaming up with other local police departments and state agencies to host a FREE community car seat check event. Each person from these agencies is a National Child Passenger Safety Technician. The event will be from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in front of the Community Playscape at 629 Westchester Dr and is by appointment only.

If you cannot make it to the event, call and make an appointment with Officer Anna Kraft at (210) 619-1264.

City Headlines

Register Your Neighborhood for National Night Out

National Night Out will be held on Tuesday, October 4. Now is the time to register your neighborhood for a visit from one of our “teams.” The teams visit communities that register for the event. These teams consist of a Council Member, City Management, City Staff, and an officer from the Schertz Police Department.

Please contact Officer A. Kraft at the police department to register your neighborhood. She can be reached at (210) 619-1264 or by email at akraft@schertz. com. Please provide a point of contact and where your community will be hosting their block party. Be sure to register by September 23 to guarantee a visit.

Councilmember Heyward Sworn in as Mayor Pro Tem

City Secretary Brenda Dennis swore in Councilmember Allison Heyward as the new Mayor Pro Tem at the August 2 Schertz City Council Meeting. In the instance Mayor Gutierrez is unavailable, Mayor Pro Tem Heyward will fill in his place. Mayor Pro Tem Heyward will serve in this capacity until February 2023.

Introducing the Schertz Community Tool Shed!

The Schertz Community Tool Shed presented by the Neighborhood Services Division contains a collection of hand and gas power tools that can be used at no cost by residents, businesses, and community groups to clean and improve their properties. This initiative gives residents access to tools they otherwise would have gone without. Using these tools, residents can do minor home repairs and projects, improving the overall attractiveness of our neighborhoods. This program also allows neighbors to help neighbors, building a sense of community and togetherness.

Residents are able to reserve equipment online by going to Schertz.com/toolshed and creating an account. Equipment is available to borrow by appointment only for use up to 3 days per reservation. Saturday pick up and return hours are offered on the first weekend of each month. Tools can be delivered upon request. Proof of residency is required when borrowing any item.

If you do not have access to the internet, please contact Neighborhood Services at (210) 619-1650 to help you complete a reservation form.

Your input is important to City leadership as they make future funding decisions. Engaged residents are a key part of the success of any City government, and the City of Schertz recognizes this. The City will be hosting two public hearings to review the FY 2022-23 proposed budget and budget highlights with the public. If you are curious about what new programs, services, or projects the City will be working on next fiscal year then join us for one of these meetings as we work together to build the best possible city for our residents.

HOUSEHOLD FIRST AID ITEMS TO KEEP ON HAND

Emergencies can happen anytime, anywhere, and to anyone. Having a well-equipped first aid kit can help prepare you to respond to common injuries and emergencies. Schertz EMS can help you prepare your home first aid kit. First aid kits can be purchased from drug stores, outdoor stores, and online, but you may choose to tailor to your specific needs.

Some basic supplies include:

– Bandage strips

– Adhesive tape

Elastic wrap bandages

– Nonstick sterile bandages

– Roller gauze

– Triangular bandages

– Instant cold packs

Disposable non-latex exam gloves

– Scissors/tweezers

– Antibiotic ointment

– Hand sanitizer

– Sterile solution

First aid manual

– Hydrogen peroxide

Some other great items that can be helpful to have readily available are:

– Emergency phone numbers and addresses

Medical history forms or a File of Life

– Emergency blanket

– Waterproof matches

– Sunscreen

– Insect repellent

After getting a first aid kit, store it somewhere easily accessible, but also out of reach of young children. Explain to older children and adolescents the purpose of the first aid kit and how to call 911 if alone. Check your first aid kits regularly to remove and replace expired items.

In addition to having a first aid kit, consider taking a CPR and first aid class to learn lifesaving skills, both of which are offered at Schertz EMS. Please contact Schertz EMS at (210) 6191410 or visit Schertz.com for the class schedules.

Building Better Neighborhoods Together

By: Kira Villarreal

Anewly formed division of the City of Schertz is helping to keep the community beautiful and protect the health and safety of area residents. The Neighborhood Services division of the Planning and Community Development Department was established in October of 2021 with the goal of safeguarding the environmental health of the community, but its work touches many aspects of residents’ lives and has farreaching benefits for everyone.

Neighborhood Services is composed of Code Enforcement and Environmental Health. The Code Enforcement team, which focuses on education and helping residents comply with municipal codes, and Environmental Health, which is led by the Sanitarian and primarily addresses items like food safety and pest control. Although these services are not new to the city, they have been realigned under the Planning and Community

Development Department. Previously, they had been under the Schertz Police Department.

The mission of Neighborhood Services is to educate and protect the community from environmental and health hazards which affect both the residential and commercial communities. On the Code Enforcement side, the team educates and helps the community on a variety of city codes and ordinances that protect the health, safety, and quality of life of residents. Among the items that they address are things like high grass and weeds, stagnant water, illegal dumping, trash accumulation, and junk vehicles. The Sanitarian primarily works with local businesses, particularly those involving food service, and is responsible for ensuring those businesses meet the city and state cleanliness and sanitation standards.

Overseeing these daily activities is the Neighborhood Services Manager, Rebecca Vera, who took over leadership of this division when it was reorganized and moved under the Planning and Community Development Department in October 2021. Prior to that, Vera served as the Sanitarian for two years, after having spent more than 18 years as a Sanitarian for the City of San Antonio. Vera says the move from the Police Department to Planning and Community Development has allowed the division to be more proactive about accomplishing its goals. “We did a lot of good work under the direction of the Police Department,” she said. “Now, we’re working on being proactive and catching problems before they get serious, as well as figuring out ways that we can prevent them from occurring in the first place.”

One of the ways that they are doing this is through participation in the Love Where You Live event, a bi-annual event that utilizes volunteers to help residents address code violations on their properties. The event is hosted by the Love Where You Live organization which includes many volunteers and local churches and has been helping Schertz residents for several years now. Interested residents sign up to get assistance with things like yard work, home maintenance, debris removal, and much more. On the day of the event, volunteers are assigned to participating

continued on page 32

We’re working on being proactive and catching problems before they get serious, as well as figuring out ways that we can prevent them from occurring in the first place.

Building Better Neighborhoods Together

continued from page 31

residents and help complete the work. City staff meets with this volunteer organization monthly and helps identify the residents in need, plan the event, and coordinate needed city services such as trash pick-up, removing tree clippings, and hauling away trash and debris. Each event typically includes about 50 projects completed by 200 volunteers.

Lesa Wood, Director of Planning and Community Development, said “This is a great event that allows community leaders, city staff, and residents to work together to help a neighbor that may need assistance with a home project or a cleanup effort. These events help build a sense of community in our neighborhoods.”

Another exciting program that will benefit residents and has just recently opened to the public is the Community Tool Shed, which offers a collection of tools that residents can use to complete yard work and small home repair projects. The shed is located at the City of Schertz Municipal Complex at 1400 Schertz Parkway and offers such things as lawn equipment, rakes, shovels, pole saws, and a wheelbarrow.

The Neighborhood Services team developed the Community Tool Shed because they know that access to tools and equipment can be a barrier for residents trying to maintain their property, and they wanted to remove this barrier, making it as easy and inexpensive as possible for residents to keep their homes and

yards beautiful. It also encourages neighbors to help each other with home and yard projects, as they can now do so without having to use their own equipment.

The Community Tool Shed is open to all Schertz residents and tools can be borrowed free of charge. You can reserve a tool or equipment on the city website at Schertz.com/toolshed.

As far as future programs, the team has been attending HOA meetings and performing block walks to communicate, educate, and build lasting relationships with residents. They are working to attract a volunteer pool with the hopes of building a Neighbors Helping Neighbors program, a Home Maintenance Academy, a smaller scale city-driven clean-up, and expanded offerings in the Community Tool Shed. Ms. Wood said, “The team has been actively researching and applying for grants to help fund new Neighborhood Services programs.”

The team is proud of the work they have been doing and wants the community to know that their main goal is to be a partner and a resource for community residents and businesses.

If you would like to have someone from the Neighborhood Services team attend or speak at your HOA meeting, please email mytown@schertz.com or call (210) 619-1650 to schedule.

Health Care Industry Continues to Multiply in Schertz

By: Holly Malish

The citizens of Schertz have long been pioneers in the agriculture, business, and trade industries. Needed utility infrastructure laid the foundations for future companies such as Guadalupe Valley Electric Co-Op (GVEC), Southwestern Bell Telephone Company, and Green Valley Development Company. Equally pioneering was the establishment of a medical industry with the Schertz Community Hospital, which opened in 1918.

Healthcare in Historic Schertz

The Schertz Community Hospital was a 5,500 sq. ft. building with red brick that consisted of a five-bed ward, and 12 private/semi-private rooms that served the western Guadalupe and eastern Bexar counties until 1939. Founded by Nurse Cora Karbach, the hospital also featured two nurses’ rooms, an office, kitchen, operating room, and other progressive amenities such as a dumbwaiter, laundry chute, and elevator. The building still stands today as a testament to this history on Schertz’ Main Street.

Since 1940, two large hospitals opened nearby in North San Antonio: Northeast Methodist Hospital (7 miles) and Northeast Baptist Hospital (13 miles), and both have been the mainstay of healthcare services for a few decades. In April 2013, Northeast Baptist Hospital expanded in Schertz and opened a Baptist Neighborhood Hospital in a 38,000 sq. ft. facility that serves as a “health plex” with many medical services under one roof. The addition of the fifth emergency medical and inpatient care hospital in the Baptist Health System that was built in Schertz cut the time in half needed to transport emergency patients.

Military Healthcare and the Changing Healthcare Landscape

While healthcare accessibility for the local civilian community was sparse for a few decades, healthcare accessibility for the nearby Joint Base San Antonio (JBSA) – Randolph was a necessity provided from the beginning. Today, JBSA-Randolph is home to more than 4,000 military members, 5,000 dependents, and 5,000 DOD civilians that receive military care (Tricare) onsite or through the recently built 60,000 sq. ft. Schertz medical facility. Additionally, veterans make up 22.5% of the Schertz population and receive healthcare benefits in a variety of local facilities.

“In recent years, the healthcare industry has continued to see strong growth due to the demand of a growing population," says Holly Malish, Deputy Director for the Schertz Economic Development Corporation.

“We (SEDC) track growth in high-wage industries such as the medical industry and associated high-skilled jobs to support recruitment of industry to the community.”

continued on page 36

The SEDC will continue to support infrastructure investments that support additional high-paying jobs, new investment, and diversification of development and healthcare options to the community.

Health Care Industry Continues to Multiply in Schertz

continued from page 35

From a high-wage industry standpoint, the healthcare industry grew 3.7% in the last five years, currently employs 1,427, and is estimated to grow 3.3% annually for the next few years.

Below is a breakdown of the healthcare industry into subcategories to show which categories are experiencing growth or decline, as well as highlight the annual average wages of the occupations. Overall, the healthcare industry seems to be on a steady incline, with ambulatory healthcare services employing the most people in the healthcare industry with the highest predicted growth rate.

Current and Future Growth

Recent years have seen a consistent growth in the healthcare industry in Schertz that has been supported by the Schertz EDC. The EDC has assisted with investments and guidance to ensure Schertz continues to be a location of choice for more and better healthcare industry jobs and investment in the IH-35 Corridor.

Nexus is a healthcare and insurance clinical review company that decided to move its headquarters to its new 36,000 sq. ft. building in Schertz in July 2019. The Schertz EDC entered a partnership with the project to secure 89 full-time employees and a capital investment of approximately $6.6 million. Jobs are made up of nurses, quality assurance nurses, case intake coordinators, case fulfillment coordinators, and physician advisor positions.

Kellum Family Medicine, Inc. has been in Schertz and provided medical services to the community for over 15 years. In 2021, Kellum proposed a 4-acre medical/office development near its current location at Roy Richard Drive and Green Valley Road. The SEDC entered into an agreement with this Methodist-affiliated development for infrastructure support on the development of three buildings totaling 39,000 sq. ft. of medical/office space. As a result of the capital investment, the development will generate at least 240 jobs and an annual payroll of $11,000,000.

Schertz Ambulatory Surgery Center and Medical Office Building

In 2022, greater access to surgical and specialty care grew with the development of the Ambulatory Surgery Center and Medical Office Building Construction has begun on the building, which is located off of IH-35 and Schertz Parkway at 17766 Verde Parkway. Once completed, the Schertz Medical Building will consist of 52,000 sq. ft. of space. It is being developed by a partnership of physicians.

The ASC is a joint venture between United Surgical Partners International (USPI) and a group of physician investors. USPI operates the largest ambulatory platform in the country and is a subsidiary of Tenet Healthcare, parent company of Baptist Health System. The ASC will have three operating rooms and one procedure room and will focus initially on musculoskeletal surgeries, expanding to additional surgical specialties over time.

The MOB will occupy 40,000 sq. ft. of space and will provide clinical office space for physicians and surgeons, some of whom will practice at the ASC. Initial tenants in the building include Baptist Medical Network (BMN) physician practices specializing in orthopedics, colorectal, general surgery, and urology.

Both corporate entities of the major regional hospital systems (Methodist and Baptist) are recognizing the advantage of a Schertz location as a strategic location to take advantage of the future growth along the IH-35 Corridor. This trend is bolstered by the community’s business-friendly/pro-growth policies and support has made Schertz a location of choice. The combination of a strong market along with community support for infrastructure investments to help bring these projects to fruition has created a strong signal to other projects that Schertz is where these types of investments can thrive.

Access to healthcare is a core element of quality of life. Significant burdens in terms of time and travel pose real barriers to healthcare, particularly for the elderly.

“In addition to new healthcare jobs and investment, the importance of these projects to access to healthcare for our residents and surrounding communities cannot be overstated,” said Adrian Perez, Director of the SEDC. “The SEDC will continue to support infrastructure investments that support additional high-paying jobs, new investment, and diversification of development and healthcare options to the community.

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 beginning September 19, 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 (210) 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.

AROUND THE COMMUNITY

SCUC Sports: Fall ’22 Season Preview

After prepping over the summer and beginning their nondistrict season, Buffaloes and Knights gear up to tackle this season of fall sports.

The Clemens and Steele football teams conditioned and trained throughout the summer to get ready for their weekly Friday night showdowns. Over at Steele, Head Coach David Saenz said his team has been prepping for this fall since the end of last season, and he looks forward to developing the talent of his team and returning starters for this year.

“(The new season) is approaching quick, and the kids are excited, the staff is excited,” Coach Saenz said. “We’re ready to get this new year started.”

Since this year’s district consists of only six teams, the football teams will travel farther for non-district games to destinations including Midland and Odessa. Clemens and Steele will return to Lehnhoff Stadium on Nov. 4 for their final game of the regular season and the annual Battle of 3009.

“If you want to make a playoffs run, you have to learn how to travel,” Clemens Head Coach Jared Johnston said. “If you’re taking a yellow bus 30 minutes down the road, it’s easy to focus. Getting

on a charter bus and driving four hours might be a learning curve for some guys. It’s not a field trip, it’s a business trip.”

However, there is more to fall sports than Friday Night Lights. Clemens and Steele volleyball both began their season in early August, but they aren’t slowing down. Their matches will take place on Tuesdays and Fridays this fall. Two returning District First Team seniors, Savannah Pannell from Clemens and Kitana Tuufuli from Steele, will be the players to watch this season. With the new six-team district, the Buffs and Knights will face new competition and be in higher contention for the title of volleyball district champion. The two teams will face each other at home in matches on Sept. 21 and Oct. 15.

Cross country season also began this fall. According to Clemens senior Shannon Quinn, the season officially started at the beginning of August, but optional runs were offered throughout the summer for preparation. Their first meet of the season was an SCUC matchup hosted by Steele on Aug. 20.

“Our end goal is to make it to state, but that starts with making it past districts and area in a competitive position,” Quinn, captain of the varsity girls cross country team, said. “There are a lot of great kids that work extremely hard for the school and cross country in order to make our team better.”

Steele and Clemens tennis players practiced on the courts all summer, but their season officially began on Aug. 1. According to Clemens Head Coach Jason Schraub, “there is no off-season with us.” Both teams have their eyes set on New Braunfels, the defending district champions, for this season’s most crucial matchups and the district tournament on Oct. 6.

Schertz Native Joins Fight Against Cancer

On August 12, Devyn Coburn, a current student at UT Austin and Schertz native, finished a 70-day bike ride that travels three routes from Austin, Texas to Anchorage, Alaska as part of the Texas 4000 Fighting Cancer Every Mile.

Every year Texas 4000 competitively selects University of Texas students for an 18-month program designed to cultivate the next generation to lead the fight against cancer. Texas 4000 empowers each student to raise $4,500, ride 2,000 training miles with his/her team, volunteer more than 50 hours in the community, and play an active role in planning every aspect of the ride to Alaska by attending weekly meetings and taking leadership positions within the team.

The Texas 4000 summer ride is the longest annual charity bike ride in the world. Starting together in Austin on Day Zero, the team splits on Day Two into Sierra, Rockies, and Ozarks routes and later reunites in Canada to ride the last nine days together into Anchorage. Each rider logs more than 4,000 riding miles throughout the course of the ride.

“I ride to show my love and support for people who are affected by cancer and have no other choice but to fight, despite the fact that it may also terrify them,” says Devyn. “I ride for the people who are not able to. Although my bike ride will not compare to what people affected by cancer endure, I ride to support them the best that I can.”

Our community is proud of Devyn and this big accomplishment and are inspired by her passion for helping those who are fighting cancer.

Fall Happenings

FUMC Seguin Pumpkin Patch 2022

The First United Methodist Church of Seguin will begin their Pumpkin Patch 2022 on Saturday, October 1 at 710 N. Austin St. 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. on Sundays in October. It’s a fun place to find a pumpkin, take great fall photos, and make happy memories. For more information call (830) 379 - 4112 and 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 wile 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, and 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.

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, September 17 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. or 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!

Spice of Life Vendor Fair

The Spice of Life Vendor Fair will be held at the Schertz Civic Center located at 1400 Schertz Parkway on Saturday, September 10 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The fair is designed to showcase local small business. From fresh baked goods, clothing, skin care, natural medicine, delicious food to accessories. Free admission to the public, free parking. Most vendors accept cash or credit. To become a vendor go to spiceoflifevendorfest.com or email spiceoflifevendorfest@yahoo.com.

Schertz Historical Preservation Committee Car Show

Join the Schertz Historical Preservation Committee on Saturday, October 15 from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. at Pickrell Park for their second annual Classic Car Show! Free parking and public entry. Enjoy craft fair, food trucks, DJ, and more! Car judging begins at 12:00 p.m. Registration is $30 and comes with a free t-shirt. For more information and to sign up for the car show or craft fair contact schertzhpc@gmail.com.

Happenings

San Antonio Record Show

Vinyl LP Records by the tens of thousands. That's what you will find at the Saturday, September 10, San Antonio Vinyl Record Show. There will be over 50 vendors from across Texas and surrounding states selling their Vinyl and merchandise on over 100 tables. There will also be plenty of 45's, CDs, T-shirts, posters, some cassettes, and a few 78's as well. You will find LP's priced as low as $1.00 for the budget-minded buyer as well as collectible records for hundreds of dollars for the more serious collectors. Something for everyone! The show will be held at the Schertz Civic Center located at 1400 Schertz Parkway. Plenty of FREE parking. Early Bird showtime begins at 8:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. priced at $15 and is good for the entire day. General admission begins at 10:00 a.m. and is only $8 and is good for the entire show. Kids under 13 have free admission. There will be an ATM available on-site as well as a food truck. Tickets can be purchased both at the door and online.

Rhea Lana's of the Hill Country Fall 2022 Family Shopping Event

Rhea Lana's of the Hill Country is hosting a Family Shopping Event September 24-27 at Mikulski Hall, 509 Schertz Parkway. Rhea Lana's is an award-winning semi-annual children's consignment event! Hundreds of families sell thousands of gently used, HIGH-QUALITY children's clothes, shoes, toys, books, DVDs, baby equipment, maternity clothes, and much much more at affordable prices. Get the entire family set for all things fall and winter. Shopping is always FREE with no tickets/passes necessary. Go to hillcountry.rhealana.com for more information.

Bracken UMC Rummage Sale

Bracken UMC Women will hold their annual Rummage Sale on Saturday, September 17 at 20377 FM 2252. Come browse treasures and one-of-a-kind items from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Items for sale include paintings, furniture, clothing, toys and games, electronics, and kitchen items. For more information visit Brackenumc.org.

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.

AROUND THE COMMUNITY

See Ya at the Fair!

Fall is here and that means it is county fair season! The Comal County and Guadalupe County Fairs are coming up and they have lots of fun activities for the whole family to participate in!

Comal County Fair

The Comal County Fair and Rodeo in New Braunfels kicks off on Saturday, September 17 with a giant BBQ cookoff, an antique tractor pull, lots of fun kids’ events, and a few more surprises. It’s free and open to the public.

Then the 2022 Comal County Fair and Rodeo officially kicks off Wednesday, September 21, and runs through Sunday, September 25, with all sorts of excitement, entertainment, and fun for the whole family.

There are PRCA rodeo performances nightly Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, and an open bull riding Sunday afternoon. Heart of America Shows brings their best carnival, presenting the thrills, spills, and games of the midway. There will be live entertainment in the Comal Corral, with headliners like Kevin fowler and Gabe Garcia, along with other well-known entertainers. The livestock show takes place in the livestock barn, there’s a baby barnyard, as well as interesting exhibits that fill the exhibit halls. And, of course, there are all sorts of delicious food and cold drinks available.

For a complete schedule of events, to purchase tickets online, and other details about the fair, go to comalcountyfair.org.

Guadalupe County Fair

The 139th Annual Guadalupe County Fair will be held October 6 - 9. There will be lots of fun-filled events planned starting with a BBQ cookoff from September 30 – October 1. There is still time to sign up to show off your BBQ skills!

Also, for the little folks, a Mutton-Bustin event will be held on Saturday, October 1 for 3 to 10 years olds to enter. Top riders have the chance to ride again during the PRCA Rodeo held October 6 – 8 nightly. This year there will be a new bull riding event on Wednesday, October 5 at 7 p.m.

Another new event this year is Oktoberfest which will feature polka, German music, and vendors each afternoon and evening at the Gazebo. Thursday evening will feature Pivo Polka and Der Klein Steins.

There are also many traditional events to see or participate in including the home arts and antique entries, baked goods, canning, carnival, vendors, fiddler contest, parade on Friday, petting zoo, lamb and steer show, Queen’s contest, and live music nightly. Enjoy Gary Glen and 20X Band on Friday, Midnight River Choir on Saturday, and Gacho Sol on Sunday.

For more information on the Guadalupe County Fair visit gcfair.org.

Curtis Jenkins, Jan Jenkins, and Mike (Taco) Ontko took their Schertz Magazine on vacation to Grand Cayman.

Chili and Peggy Ornelas took their Schertz Magazine on a trip to Parador de Santa Teresa in Avila, Spain.

Mike and Cai Schramm visited the Mt. Everest Base Camp in Nepal and took their Schertz Magazine.

MaryConway,SusanYoungblood, andSandyStahlvisitedthe AlhambrainGrenada,Spainwith their SchertzMagazine.

LOOKING BACK

QUOTE OF NOTE

“You become what you believe.”

– Oprah Winfrey

LOCAL HISTORY

The 1880 census recorded 65 families and 23 single persons residing in the Cibolo Valley (Schertz/Cibolo) area. Schertz was incorporated as a city in 1958. The city is the 79th largest city in Texas that has grown substantially to a city from 31,456 (2010 Census) to 44,002 (2020 Census).

TEXAS HISTORY

The Texas State Air Force formally known as the Confederate Air Force was adopted on June 14, 1989. The Confederate Air Force based at the Midland International Airport, was proclaimed the official Air Force of Texas by the 71st Legislature in 1989. Effective January 1, 2002, the organization is now known as the Commemorative Air Force (CAF). The origin of the CAF dates back to 1951, with the purchase of a surplus Curtiss P-40 Warhawk. Later, the group added a P-51 Mustang and then a pair of F8F Bearcats. The mission of the CAF was to save one of every aircraft that flew during WWII – a mission no one else was undertaking. In 1960, the CAF began seriously to search for other WWII aircraft, but few remained in flying condition. These aircraft played a major role in winning WWII was being rapidly and systematically destroyed. The AF or Navy was not attempting to preserve even one of these type of historic aircrafts for display for future generations.

On September 6, 1961, the CAF was chartered as a nonprofit Texas corporation in order to restore and preserve WWII era combat aircraft. The CAF has over 11,000 members who have served as pilots and flight or maintenance crew members committed to preserving WWII American aviation heritage.

IMPORTANT SCHERTZ CONTACT INFO

Schertz City Council

Mayor:

Ralph Gutierrez

Council Members:

(210) 619-1040

ralphgutierrez@schertz.com

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

If you would like to share your memories living in Schertz before 1970, please submit to Roz Wise, Historian of Schertz Historical Preservation Committee, Rozwise@aol.com.

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