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02_February 2014BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE CITY OF SCHERTZ, TEXAS magazine FEBRUARY 2014 REGISTRATION Online: active.com Paper: Visitschertz.com REGISTRATION FEE 18 and up $20.00 13-17 $10.00 12 and under FREE Dogs $10.00 FUN RUNAll ages $25.00 Saturday, March 1, 2014 Rain or Shine What: 5K Walk along Schertz Parkway Where: Samual Clemens Parking Lot, 1001 Elbel Road, at 8:00 AM Why: To remember loved ones lost to cancer and Honor those still fighting cancer while raising funds for cancer awareness and CTRC. For more information call 201-619-1000 or go to:visitschertz.com 5 schertzmagazine.com FEBRUARY 2014 It used to be fun to com- plain about cold weather in Texas in February. Oldtimers like me re- member how -- in the 1950s and 1960s -- we all shivered as the TV weatherman warned a “Blue Norther” was bearing down on us as the shortest month of the year rolled around. With the northern U.S. colder than the South Pole at times this winter, it’s no fun to com- plain about the weather down here when it’s so abominable up there. Instead, we celebrate February for what it really means in these parts -- the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo, wearing boots, talking with a fake Texas drawl and going to the Cowboy Break- fast or the Schertz Trail Ride luncheon in Pickrell Park. Step into our time machine as we explore the history of the Blue Bonnet Palace. This vener- able venue has been in two near- by locations in the past 27 years and created countless memories for thousands of patrons. Read how the John family adapt- ed to changing times and tastes with a variety of entertainment at the legendary saloon. And look for an advance story on two trail ride groups that come through Schertz on their way to the Stock Show and Ro- deo in San Antonio. The Greater Randolph Area Trail Riders (GRA-Trails) and the Kerr County Trail Riders will stop in Pickrell Park late morning February 6 for a western lunch. Come welcome them to town. For more information, call 210- 619-1000. Read how the Automotiva- tion program is using a build- ing behind Grumpy’s Mexican Restaurant on FM 2252 to fix old cars and young lives of wounded veterans. Cadillac Products in the Schertz Tri-County Industrial Park is an award-winning company that makes specialized parts for vari- ous vehicles, including compo- nents that ensure a quieter ride. Also look for a report on a lo- cal artist who sees the world in a special way and listen for the golden voices of the Silver Serenaders. OK, you can’t hear them in the story, but after read- ing about the Serenaders you will want to catch them at the Schertz Area Senior Center. And by the way, did you look closely at the cover for this month’s issue? It is a photo of the Texas state flower, the Blue Bonnet (hinting about our Blue Bonnet Palace story). Or is it? The cover is actually a mosaic of tiny versions of other photos in the February magazine. From front cover to back page, you will find it all in Your Home- town News Source - Schertz Magazine. Editor’z Letter By Chuck McCollough, Editor FEATUREZ Blue Bonnet Palace 26 Automotivation 35 DEPARTMENTZ TALK OF THE TOWNZ Updatez 9 Visionz / Chamber 12 Sweethearts 15 ENTERTAINMENTZ Silver Serenaders 19 PROFILEZ Capturing the Artist 21 FOCUZ: Correau 23 BIZ: Cadillac 33 CIVIC NEWZ Updatez 40 CALENDARZ 47 BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE CITY OF SCHERTZ, TEXAS magazine FEBRUARY 2014 COVER Blue Bonnet Mosiac Picture taken along Schaeffer Road is formed from piecing together photos. Inside... 5 schertzmagazine.com DECEMBER 2013 7 Commercial Place Schertz, TX 78154Weloveyourdog.net Call us to make your boarding reservations today.210.566.4222 BOARDING & DAYCARE GET IN TOUCH COME PLAY & STAY TODAY! Paw_1-4AD_Feb.indd 1 1/7/14 9:47 AM www.encantogrill.com Reserve your Special Valentine’s Day Dinner @ Encanto. Call (210) 888 2753 60 3 2 FM 3 0 0 9 - Sc h e r t z - ww w . e n c a n t o g r i l l . c o m Pa s t Wa l -Ma r t , b e h i n d C h a s e B a n k Filet Mignon & Lobster entree Tempting Devil’s chocolate cake PUBLISHED MONTHLY BYPublic Affairs Department David J. HarrisInterim Director Linda KlepperBusiness Manager Chuck McCollough Editor Chris Matzenbacher Sales Director Lucille Sims Thomas Copy Editor Brittany Losey Senior Writer Contributing Staffers Erin Matlock Client Affairs Specialist Mary Spence Events Coordinator Graphic Design/Art Direction Souzamaphone Marketing, LLC Contributing WritersChuck McCollough, Lucille Sims Thomas, Andrea Allinger, Kari Bridges, Jim Webb, Stan Leland, Kiko Martinez, Ashley Festa, Rudy Arispe, Hillory Halbardier, Tom Lovett, Teresa H. Kelley Contributing PhotographersMatt Cowen (Cover),Chuck McCollough, Mary Spence, Bryan Tobias, Mike Harris, Diana Webb, Ross Dye, Marc Bane, Michael Carpenter, David J. Harris, Bryan Nguyen, Joe Herczeg, Andrea Allinger, Kari Bridges, Catherine White, Elizabeth Leland, Rudy Ornelas, Christopher Matzenbacher, Samuel Rhodes, Linda Klepper, Stock Photography: fontsandphotos.com Schertz Magazine is published monthly by the Public Affairs Department of the City of Schertz promoting city, community, and business activities. Our mailing address is 1400 Schertz Parkway, Schertz, Texas 78154. © City of Schertz, Texas The editorial office of Schertz Magazine is at 1400 Schertz Parkway, Schertz, Texas 78154. Call (210) 619-1630. Fax (210) 619-1619. Website is schertz.com and schertzmagazine.com City Council Michael Carpenter Mayor Jim Fowler Councilmember David Scagliola CouncilmemberCedric Edwards, Sr. CouncilmemberMatthew Duke Councilmember Daryl John Councilmember Executive Team John Kessel City Manager John Bierschwale Executive DirectorDavid J. Harris Executive DirectorBrian James Executive Director Subscriptions to Schertz Magazine are free for each Schertz household. Subscriptions for residents and businesses outside the City of Schertz are $19.95 annually. Call 210-619-1630. Send queries about articles or photographs to Schertz Magazine at 1400 Schertz Parkway, Schertz, Texas 78154. For advertising information: Schertz Magazine, 1400 Schertz Parkway, Schertz, Texas 78154; call (210) 619-1630; Fax (210) 619-1619; email sales@schertz.com. NEWS POLICYSchertz Magazine encourages submission of news and event announcement items. News and event announcements must include contact name and contact phone number. All news and event items must be for activities that occur inside the Schertz city limits. Publication cannot be guaranteed. If you would like to submit an item to Schertz Magazine, email us at events@schertz.com or call us at (210) 619-1630. The appearance of advertising in this publication does not constitute endorsement by the City of Schertz. All products and services advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, marital status, physical or mental handicap, political affiliation or other non-merit factor of purchaser, user or patron. Articles that appear in Schertz Magazine do not necessarily reflect the official position of the City of Schertz and does not constitute an endorsement therein. The appearance of any advertisement in Schertz Magazine does not constitute an endorsement of the goods or services advertised. Any publication of Schertz Magazine, whether draft or final is sole property of the City of Schertz and cannot be reproduced or distributed in any way, whether in print or electronically, without the express permission and written consent of the City of Schertz. OFFICIAL FINE PRINT schertzmagazine.com VOLUME 30 ISSUE 2 9 schertzmagazine.com FEBRUARY 2014 TALK TOWNZOFTHE Trail Riders Rolling Into Schertz Area February 6 The sights and sounds of Trail Riders - clopping horse hooves, squeaky covered wagon wheels and wafting C&W music on the breeze - mean only one thing ...they are headed our way on the way to the San Antonio Livestock Show and Rodeo. On February 6, the Greater Ran- dolph Area Trail Riders (GRA- Trails) and the Kerr County Trailer Riders will be in Schertz’ Pickrell Park for a western lunch. Schertz residents have welcomed these groups for years as they moved through our area on their slow sojourn to the SA event. Put on your spurs (or Spurs shirt) and head to Pickrell Park around 11 AM on February 6 and welcome the cowboys, cowgirls and cow-babies as they stop for some local vittles. For more information on the exact time for the ride through and chow-down , call 210-619-1000 or 311. FEBRUARY 2014 schertzmagazine.com 10 SZ Something Fishy About This Scene! The Zimmerman family took Schertz Magazine with them on a Caribbean trip. And they - dad Nathan, mom Naomi and son Nathanael - went to great depths for a one- of a-kind shot. Well not really great depths, but 30 feet down. (Above) Nathan and Nathanael show Schertz Magazine un- derwater in the beautiful blue water of Grand Cayman. (Right) Coming up for air, Nathan and Naomi display a dry copy the magazine outside Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville Restaurant in Jamaica. Take Schertz Magazine on your next trip and take a photo of the magazine in front of a landmark or interest- ing background and send to events@schertz.com. We may just use it in the magazine. 11 schertzmagazine.com FEBRUARY 2014 SZFebruary Library Events Evening Storytime Storytime that is just right for your family, all ages welcome. Stories, songs, and activities will engage your children (and entertain the adult who is still a child at heart). Our Evening Storytimes are ideal for working families who desire to spend quality time together. Eve- ning Storytime is held in the Program Room every Tuesday evening at 6:30 PM. Program runs 25-30 minutes. Fact Finders A program designed especially for elementary students ages 6 to 10. We explore a variety of topics from spies and pirates to dinosaurs and mummies. Activities, games, and experiments follow a read- aloud time. Join us in the Program Room every Thursday afternoon at 4:30 PM. Fact Finders programs are approximately 30-45 minutes in length. Blind Date with a Book Visit the library starting February 3rd and check out a book from our Blind Date with a Book display. Inside the book you will find a rate your date form that you will complete and return to the library letting us know if you greatly enjoyed the book or if you had a ter- rible blind date with your book selection. The display will be set up until February 24th!! Library Quilt Bee The library quilt bee meets the 2nd Tuesday and 3rd Saturday of each month in the library meeting rooms from 12-3 PM. This group is great for both beginning and advanced quilters. For more infor- mation about the quilt bee, please contact the library at 210-619-1700. Free Computer Classes @ the Library The Schertz Public Library offers free beginner computer classes to adults and seniors every Wednesday and Thursday afternoon from 12-1 PM. Evening classes are also held from 6:30-7:30 PM and will vary month to month. Registration is required for computer classes, as space is limited. Registration is available online, via telephone 210-619-1700, or in person at one of the information desks. FEBRUARY 2014 schertzmagazine.com 12 Upcoming Annual Events for 2014 YOUR CHAMBER AT WORK FOR YOU! VISIONZ The Taste: Down Home ~ March 20th Meet the Candidates ~ October 23rd Schertz Chamber Member Appreciation and Awards Banquet ~ November 14th Schertz Shoot Out Speed Networking Event ~ May 15th SCOC Golf Classic ~ October 3rd Unique networking opportunities, education, advocacy and more! Join the Schertz Chamber of Commerce today! Call us at 210-566-9000 or come by and visit at 1730 Schertz Parkway in Schertz. What’s Happenin’ MARK YOUR CALENDARS! HEB presents the 5th Annual Taste of the Town on March 20th at the Schertz Civic Center from 5-8pm. This year’s theme is Down Home so expect everything from comfort food to Mom’s favorite recipes! Tickets will be on sale soon. SCHERTZ CHAMBER TOASTMASTERS CLUB Want to build great Communication and Leadership skills? The Schertz Chamber Toastmasters meets every Monday at the Comfort Inn & Suites, located at 15771 IH 35 North, in Selma at 6:45 PM. Open to all- you don’t have to be a Schertz Chamber member to attend. Contact David Smith at 210-913-9288 for more details. FEBRUARY 18TH CHAMBER LUNCHEON Schertz Civic Center @11:30 AM – 1 PM. Topic is “State of the Cities” – an overview of upcoming developments in the cities of Selma, Schertz and Cibolo. Free Breakfast provided by RBFCU. RSVP by February 12th to the Chamber offices. BIZ ED February 26th – 7:30 AM – 9 PM at Schertz Chamber of Commerce. Free Breakfast included. Topic: Social Media Workshop- a hands-on class which will show you how to use social media to promote your business. Call 210-566- 9000 to RSVP your attendance. General admission is $10, Schertz Chamber members admitted free. HELP US “BUILD A BETTER TOMORROW” 15 schertzmagazine.com FEBRUARY 2014 SZSchertz SweetheartMiss JubileeMy name is Sydney Fischer and I repre- sent our beautiful City as Miss Jubi- lee of the Schertz Sweetheart Court. Having lived in Schertz my entire life, I’ve always loved to be involved in the community. I am a freshman at Clem- ens High School where I play volley- ball, am a varsity swimmer, and plan to continue my athletics with track this spring. I’m also a member of Meet in the Middle, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and UIL speech and debate. Outside of school I enjoy giving back to the community by volunteering at the Schertz Public Library and with Sunday School at Crosspoint Fellow- ship Church. During the summer I coach the age six-and-under group of the BVYA Stingrays Swim Team. I also play club volleyball; my dream is to play in college and later to incor- porate all of my passions into a career that I enjoy and love. Being very active in my church, I try bringing God into all that I do. My fa- vorite Bible verse is, “So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” (1 Corinthi- ans 10:31). I love connecting my life through student ministry because of all of the strong ties I’ve been able to establish with my friends, church, and community. This past year on the Sweetheart Court has broadened my view of the world’s opportunities immensely. I love representing Schertz through this amazing program, and I hope to continue touching people’s lives with it throughout my high school experi- ence. FEBRUARY 2014 schertzmagazine.com 16 SZ Hartzog Receives City Council Commendation The Guadalupe County Chapter of the Native Plant Society of Texas will sponsor, “Natives to Fly For” Workshop: Attracting Butterflies, Hummingbirds and Song Birds to Your Yard Saturday, February 22 from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Schertz Civic Center, 1400 Schertz Pkwy, Bldg 5 Experts will show you how to entice butterflies, hummingbirds, and song birds to your yard by providing native habitat and creating you’re your own wildscape. Exhibitors will have native plants and gardening books for sale. The $40 per person registration fee includes a box lunch and snacks. There will be a raffle and door prizes. To register, call 830-303-0333 or email zengerlem@sbcglobal.com.Mayor Michael Carpenter, right, poses with former City Council member Earl Hartzog who received a City Council commendation during the December 10 meeting. The commendation thanks Hartzog for his many years of service and volunteer work in the community, including serv- ing as a city observer during the Novem- ber election recount in Comal County. Hartzog also is a former city staffer and has served on many city boards , is current member of the Board of Adjust- ment, and has been a supporter of many community activities. The Commendation presented to Hartz- og: “commends Earl Hartzog for his love of the City of Schertz, for his willingness to step up when asked to participate, and for his generosity to many worth- while causes throughout the area, and deem him worthy of special recognition by all who reside in our great commu- nity.” 17 schertzmagazine.com FEBRUARY 2014 Veteran’s Office Serving Schertz Area Texas law says a county has to have a Veterans Service Office when its population hits 200,000. Guadalupe County established such an office 15 years ago when its population wasn’t even 100,000, said Bill MacAllister, County Veterans Services Officer. To- day, Guadalupe County has nearly 140,000 residents including many veterans. MacAllister and new Assistant Veterans Service Of- ficer Debi Aguirre are available to help veterans, their dependents or survivors at the Schertz office in the Guadalupe County Annex Building, 1101 Elbel Road. This office is open from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM Monday and from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. For more information, call 210-945- 9708, Ext. 211. The Seguin office is located at 211 W. Court St. and is open from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. The phone number is 830-303-8870. Guadalupe County currently has more than 19,000 veterans and survivors receiving some sort of Vet- erans Administration benefit ranging from service connected disabilities to a surviving spouse receiving a death pension, MacAllister said. MacAllister, starting his 10th year on the job, and Agu- irre stressed the importance of veterans working with a representative of any service organization to help prevent mistakes that can delay a final decision by the VA on benefits. “We are here to assist the Guadalupe County veterans and their families to file claims for service connected disabilities, veterans pensions, widows pensions, death benefits, burial benefits and also in obtaining replacement DD-214s,” MacAllister said. (Above) Guadalupe County Commissioner Jim Wol- verton (right) and County Veterans Service Officer Bill MacAllister watch Assistant Veterans Service Officer Debi Aguirre check out veteran benefit regulations. Start the new year off right with a new pair of eyeglasses! Complete pair of no-line bifocals Includes frame, polycarbonate lenses, and non-glare coating. Some restrictions apply.$249 210.590.2482 www.schertztso.com �erapeutic Optometrist & Glaucoma Specialist 17460 IH 35 North Suite 412 Schertz, TX 78154 Dr. Leigha M. Nielsen 19 schertzmagazine.com FEBRUARY 2014 ENTERTAINMENTZ Silver Serenaders Sing Golden Notes Giving and receiving the gift of music is wonderful event for both the giver and the receiver. This past Christmas season, the rewards were especially gratifying for a Schertz volunteer choir known as “The Silver Serenaders.” The group claims the title as “Ambassadors of Music” for the Schertz Area Senior Center. The Serenaders per- formed Christmas concerts for six dif- ferent organizations during the month of December as a part of their monthly concert series. The story of the group’s beginning and its growth is a study in devotion to their music and to the people for whom they sing. Lois Ferguson, a former senior cen- ter member, was the spark that was needed to begin the center’s first choir. Ferguson, before arrival in Schertz, had organized another choir at a senior center in Wenatchee, Wash. She made her idea of a Schertz Senior Center choir known to the general membership and asked for volunteers. Lois recruited an accompanist (Mil- dred Litteral) from her local church. She sought out venues among the local Schertz nursing homes where the choir’s music could be presented. Ferguson knew that the music per- formed would need to be of the vintage that a senior citizen audience would most appreciate. The music of the late 1940s through 1960s was the natural cont’d on page 20 FEBRUARY 2014 schertzmagazine.com 20 choice. So began a search for popular music of that era and once found practice sessions began. The early practice sessions saw but a few singers engaged. But as the weeks passed, more and more volunteer singers appeared and before long the choir numbered about 15 singers. The sup- port needed for maintaining a choir became readily ap- parent in the form of music selection, music reproduc- tion, music disbursement, practice facility, piano accompaniment, director support, etc. Volunteers promptly ap- peared as the needs became apparent and before long the “young” choir was ready to perform. The selected venues for the performanc- es were Autumn Winds Retirement Lodge and Silver Tree Nursing and Rehabili- tation Center. The frequency of performances was once per month at each facility. In honor of Ferguson’s work in starting the choir, the group adopted the name “Lois and the Halos.” As the adage goes, “practice makes perfect” so practice was intensified during the early months. The goal of Silver Serenders Sing Golden Notes cont’d from page 19 “Lois and the Halos” was not to achieve “perfection” but simply to become as good as we could while hav- ing lots of fun and touch- ing the emotions of those senior citizens recovering from illness or injury at the selected nursing homes. It didn’t take more than the first few performances for the choir to realize success with its quest to touch the spirits of the audiences in a positive way. Sadly, Ferguson was faced with circumstances that required a move to another area of San Antonio and had to resign as the choir’s director. Stepping in to fill the void were Gary and Ruth Riden whose musical backgrounds are extensive and enthusiasm for the choir’s purpose immeasur- able. The Ridens kept the proj- ect alive and well. As the months passed, new and tal- ented voices joined the choir to include soloists, a direc- tor with professional music experience and a second accompanist (Ron Franklin). Today, the choir consists of 23 members and has improved vocally by leaps and bounds. The choir now has its own musical sound system and selects special themes for each month’s music selections but staying within the era of music most familiar to seniors. Current choir director Donna Manning emphasizes that the more singers who come to sing the better the sound becomes and assures new members that the indi- vidual voice is not the most important element – it’s the joint sound that makes for beautiful music. As noted earlier, the sound of Christmas favorites (secu- lar and devotional) was the theme of December’s con- certs and a special feature of that concert was the singing of Silent Night in five differ- ent languages (German-Inga Bruner, French-Anna Good- win, Spanish-Stella Rogers & Sonia Rieff, Japanese-Peggy Gentry and English-total choir). The Silver Serenaders meet twice per week (Tuesday and Wednesday) at 10:00 AM for practice at the Schertz Area Senior Center. The group invites all seniors who love music and the rewards that come from sharing it with others to join them no mat- ter what his or her singing experience may or may not have been. For more information on the Silver Serenaders call 210- 619-1970. “Its all about lifting spirits through the gift of music,” says the choir’s master of ceremonies Dean Weirtz. 21 schertzmagazine.com FEBRUARY 2014 PROFILEZ COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT FEATURE Capturing Life Through Artist’s Eyes By Kari Bridges Schertz resident and lo- cal artist Staci Gregory is working diligently to share her life-long pas- sion of creating beautiful oil paintings and pursuing her dreams of becoming a professional artist and art instructor in the Schertz community. Until recently, Gregory has only shared her artwork with close friends and fam- ily, but through the support and encouragement of those closest to her, she believes that 2014 will be the year she will launch a website to educate the community about her artwork and begin to teach students of all ages. “The time is right for me to focus on transitioning my art into a career instead of a hobby. The kids are growing up and other life changes are bringing about a different focus in my life. There are so many things that I want to do with my life and it is time to come out of the shadows and bring more attention to my art,” Gregory said. Growing up in Tennessee, Gregory was fortunate to have had the opportunity to study under longtime pro- fessional artist Shirley Phar- ris, a talented artist who painted and taught lessons for 30 years in the Mt. Juliet, Tenn., area. She attributes her love for painting as well as her style and techniques to the way she was instruct- ed during the five years that she studied art under the direction of Pharris. Gregory, a floral and land- scape artist specializing in oils and pastels, is the niece of award-winning romantic impressionist artist and teacher Kathy Chester, also from Mt. Juliet, Tenn., and a former student of Phar- ris. Chester’s work includes portraits of people and pets, floral arrangements, still life and landscapes, which are displayed all through the state of Tennessee in art galleries, private collections, businesses, restaurants and Cumberland University. Currently, Gregory creates custom oil paintings from photographs in her home. She explained that good lighting, high-quality animal hair paint brushes, the type of canvas, the process of mixing together oil-based paint colors, the methods of preserving palette colors, drying time and style of frame are each important and essential elements that go into making up the entire painting and together will create the “perfect look” she works to achieve. “I’m fortunate in that I can look at a picture and right away I will be able to envi- sion in my mind how it should look on the canvas. Painting is a messy hobby and when you start a project cont’d on page 22 Capturing Life Through Artist’s Eye cont’d from page 21 it’s not something that you can just take down and put away. Each oil painting can take up to a month to com- plete due to working with oil-based paints that often require 2-3 days to dry be- fore the next layer of paint can be applied,” Gregory said. “Oil painting is special to me because it is a time to self-reflect, letting all the burdens of everyday life just slip away for those hours you are working on the painting. It’s just you and your art, your passion, and love of putting a piece of yourself on the canvas for others to enjoy and share,” said Gregory, who loves to paint flowers. Gregory, a member of the Schertz Area Artz Council, hopes to follow in her aunt’s footsteps and fulfill her goal of sharing her talent with others. Currently, she is looking at potential local venues and speaking with Schertz businesses in search of work space for weekly classes where she could open a private art studio and begin offering adult group and private classes this coming spring – even- tually expanding classes to include children’s classes. “Schertz is an amazing town that offers so many options to its residents and art is no exception. There are so many ways to express your- self, why not through oil painting? “Who knows,” she said, “You many find your new passion and love.” When Gregory is not paint- ing, as a proud Buff sup- porter, she can be found volunteering at Clemens High School or working part-time for the SCUCISD as a substitute teacher. For more information, call (210) 445-0377, or email at hockergregorystaci @yahoo.com. 23 schertzmagazine.com FEBRUARY 2014 FOCUZ Special Section Dedicated to the Hard Working Employees at the City of Schertz Correu Always Moving Forward By Chuck McCollough Lieutenant John Correu of the Schertz Police Department has lived the equivalent of a full lifetime while still under 40. The soft-spoken law enforcement of- ficer’s life story so far could fill a book or a movie. From a tough start in life to a battle with bone cancer that almost cost him an arm to the challenges of law en- forcement and military careers, Correu never quits. He has a combined 18 years in mili- tary and police supervision and an unquenchable thirst for education and knowledge. He is both teacher and stu- dent and has been for some time. Correu has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice, a Masters of Public Administration, a Masters in Justice Policy, and is in the final stages of get- ting a PhD in Business Administration. He also holds a Masters Peace Officer’s license and Advanced TCLEOSE (Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Offi- cers Standards and Education) instruc- tors license. cont’d on page 24 FEBRUARY 2014 schertzmagazine.com 24 Willoughby And Public Works Keep City Rolling cont’d from page 23 Correu is a Commissioned Intelligence Officer in the U.S. Army Reserve. His responsibilities include overseeing day-to-day operations of all person- nel readiness, personnel services, and headquarters management; develop, review and approve admin- istrative policies, procedures and plans. Correu has been awarded the Knowlton Award (US Army Intelligence Award) and inducted into the Mili- tary Intelligence Corps As- sociation for his exceptional service. He also speaks several languages that help him in duties in his civilian and military careers, including instructor. Correu has taught a number of courses including: secu- rity management, terror- ism and counterterrorism, cyber crimes, drugs and the Criminal Justice System and introduction to Criminal Justice. Correu said the City of Schertz and the Police Department have provided full support to him and his family when he had several stateside mobilizations and his overseas deployment. . It sounds like Correu is a person driven to constantly improve himself and the world around him - which is remarkable considering his start in life and obstacles he has faced. “I was born in West Virginia and taken away by the state and placed in a foster home. A minister and his wife adopted me at age 3 ½. We moved all over Texas and ended up in San Antonio,” he said. “I could not have asked for a better upbringing,” Correu stressed. “My parents really instilled the importance of education.” Correu went into the mili- tary after high school and when he got out didn’t have a career field in mind. “A friend’s dad worked for SAPD (San Antonio Police Department) and helped guide me to a job as a dis- patcher at age 21. As with many dispatchers, I wanted 25 schertzmagazine.com FEBRUARY 2014 to see the action I could hear over the radio going on out on the streets.” Correu went to the police academy at San Antonio College from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM and then worked a dispatcher shift from 2:00 to 10:00 PM. After becoming a certified peace officer, Correu worked as a reserve officer at Live Oak for a while before get- ting hired with Schertz PD in December 1997. Several years later he had a life-changing challenge. In 2001, Correu was diag- nosed with Myxoid Chon- drosarcoma, a form of bone cancer. After consulting with his first specialist the decision was made to ampu- tate his right arm. During that time, he re- members speaking with the Chief of Police to see how the amputation would affect his job. “The Chief said that I would always have a job - I just needed to learn to shoot left handed,” Correu said with a smile “The City of Schertz and the Police Department stood behind me 100 percent throughout the ordeal. I got a second and a third opinion until I finally found a doc- tor who wanted to attempt another surgery first known as a resection,” the lieuten- ant said. That surgery ultimately saved the right arm and left Correu philosophical about his situation. He said he was asked many times why it never seemed to bother him. Correu’s response was simple. “Every time I went to the doctor’s office I saw small kids who also were diag- nosed with various forms of cancer, many of them termi- nal. As I looked around at these children who had not even had the opportunity to experience life, I just knew that I had nothing to com- plain about,” he said. The same year he dealt with bone cancer, Correu began moving up the patrol divi- sion ranks by making cor- poral in December 2000. He went on to make sergeant in April 2007 and lieutenant in October 2008. In December 2011, Lt. Correu moved from the patrol side of Schertz PD to Criminal Investigations Commander/ Training Coordinator. In that position, Correu is responsible for the day to day supervision of personnel assigned to the investigative division, the records division and the School Resource Of- fice division. Duties include assigning and reviewing work; conducting performance evaluations; performing investigative functions; planning and organizing undercover operations; working with lo- cal, county, state and federal investigators as needed. In addition Correu is respon- sible for the oversight of the civilian evidence technician position and the property maintenance of all evidence. He manages operations of officers attached to the US Drug Enforcement Agency, the narcotics squad, SWAT and the training division. In his spare time, Correu like to spend time with his family and enjoys outdoor activities such as running, camping, fishing and hunting.. Ad- ditionally, he spends a great deal of time with his family at the coast once the summer months roll around. Correu visits with Chief of Police Michael Hansen FEBRUARY 2014 schertzmagazine.com 26 FEATUREZ 27 schertzmagazine.com FEBRUARY 2014 Musical History On IH-35 Blue Bonnet Palace Iconic Venue Changes with the Times By Brittany Losey Many Schertz area resi- dents know the Blue Bonnet Palace as a place to stop for a good night of music and fun. Others have yet to discover it tucked away on the corner of Schertz Parkway and Lookout Road. But what many may not know is the deep history embedded within the iconic venue’s name. “So the Blue Bonnet opened in April of 1978,” Leonard John, owner of the Blue Bonnet Palace, said. “We opened up with this guy by the name of Bobby Helms. He sang Jingle Bell Rock, My Special Angel, and Fraulein – those were his big three hits.” When the Blue Bonnet opened, its doors were not at their current loca- tion – but a short distance away at IH-35 near Schertz Parkway. “It was just a dance hall at that time,” John said. “We used some of the local cont’d on page 28 FEBRUARY 2014 schertzmagazine.com 28 FEATUREZ acts – we had some that did really well for us. One of the guys that played for us was George Strait – he was one of our house bands.” Strait is just one of many major coun- try music names to perform at the Blue Bonnet. “There’s nobody that hasn’t played at the Blue Bonnet in the country world,” John said. “We used all the big name stars from Kenny Chesney, Garth Brooks, George Strait, Brooks and Dunn, Shania Twain, everybody.” Business was booming in the early days of the Blue Bonnet – the dance hall even had its own newspaper with 60,000 subscribers. As it grew, the Blue Bonnet accommodated its customers’ changing needs. “That old country thing, it kind of went away a little bit,” John said. “The Musical History on IH-35 cont’d from page 23 newer kids wanted to hear a variety of music, a little more rock. So we built a new club attached to the old one called Rockin’ Rodeo, and it started playing about 60 percent rock and 40 percent country, and of course it was jam-packed.” Another addition that drew a crowd was the live indoor bull-riding arena that featured legendary riders such as Lane Frost. The Blue Bonnet hosted a variety of other crowd-drawing events including rodeo events, fights, and even a visit from the cartoon cast of the Simpsons. In 1992, John opened a restaurant attached to the venue. “It was very successful for a pretty good while,” John said. “We cooked for Julia Child in 1995. It was for her 85th birthday, so that was pretty exciting.” The Blue Bonnet continued to adapt to a changing society, starting with the end of the restaurant portion of the business. “The restaurant was doing really well, but then the chains moved in,” John said. The music scene began to shift around about the same time as well. “The music completely changed. It went from country to country mixed with rock to rap, and rap was huge! It wasn’t really until Britney Spears came and kind of changed the youth – the youth started following her.” The implications for the Blue Bonnet Palace ranged from the type of music played to an entirely new venue and a different sort of entertainment. “It’s really made the club business bet- ter,” John said. The original Blue Bonnet closed in 2002 and the new location opened in May 2010. While the new place is 29 schertzmagazine.com FEBRUARY 2014 smaller than the old one, it features an outdoor stage and serves a 21 and up population – the previous location was open to all ages. Additionally, manage- ment has shifted into the hands of John’s son, Austin. “It’s been really good, we’ve been gain- ing a lot of ground,” Austin said. “We’ve got a lot of good shows coming up this year.” While Blue Bonnet stays true to its roots in featuring live country music, it also offers a wide variety of music. “The biggest change would probably be back then there were more live acts – now it’s a little bit more DJ,” Austin said. “We’re kind of sticking to the DJ thing a little more. You know, people just want to have a good time.” Blue Bonnet still offers a variety of shows. Since the new location has cont’d on page 30 FEBRUARY 2014 schertzmagazine.com 30 FEATUREZ Musical History on IH-35 cont’d from page 29 been in operation, they’ve hosted many artists includ- ing Florida Georgia line, Lee Brice, Hunter Hays, Easton Corbin, and Steel Magnolia. Upcoming events include appearances by Steve Wari- ner, the Spazmatics, and more. In the future, the Blue Bonnet hopes to offer a new type of all-inclusive enter- tainment center. “[Our customers] want more experience for their night out,” Austin said. “They want to go to a place that can offer that, and they don’t necessarily want to go bar hopping anymore.” John explains their vision for the future. “We’re expanding both patios now to where both will offer some form of live entertainment, bigger bars, more TVs. What we’re wanting to create is a whole entertainment complex. We’ve got about three dif- ferent clubs that want to come in, like a brewhouse, traditional old Texas coun- try dance hall, and a couple of eateries. That’s what we’re looking to develop now. The idea is adapted from a few other well-known night- life/entertainment hotspots. “We want kind of a cross between Bourbon Street and 6th Street,” John said. “And we’re in the perfect location to do that in Selma off IH-35.” The Johns really hope to make it a one-stop spot for a variety of needs while still maintaining a down-to- earth vibe. “We want a variety of mu- sic, a variety of food,” John said. “Especially more mom and pop, we’re not interest- ed so much in chains. We need those specialty kind of places. Schertz needs that cultural element.” Another way the Blue Bon- net stays connected to the community is by contribut- ing to and participating in local charity events. Among these are the Wounded Warrior Project, Homes for Pets, and Race for the Cure. Additionally, the Blue Bonnet Palace hosts private events such as retirement parties, wed- dings, and birthdays and community events such as auctions and even the Randolph Chamber of com- merce monthly meetings. Many memories have been made for community mem- bers through the years of Blue Bonnet Palace’s opera- tion. In fact, Steve Pulaski of the Schertz City Marshals’ Department met his wife on a blind date at the Blue Bonnet Palace in 1994. “It was a lot of fun back then,” Pulaski said. “It was so close to Schertz, it was just the place that everyone went. I had my rehearsal dinner there. Brings back a lot of memories.” “It’s a bar that does a lot more than just a bar,” John said. “A lot more.” For more information, go to palace.com. 33 schertzmagazine.com FEBRUARY 2014 FEATUREZ Cadillac Products Creates Quieter Ride By Lucille Sims ThomasDon’t let the name fool you — Ca- dillac Products Automotive Company is not associated with the luxury car compa- ny. But it is making a name for itself as an elite supplier of automotive parts to car companies such as General Motors, Nissan, and Chrys- ler by winning some presti- gious awards. The internationally known company, which has a Schertz location at I-35 and FM 3009 in the Tri-County Industrial Park, recently won a Supplier Quality Ex- cellence Award from Gen- eral Motors for the second year in a row. “It’s a pretty big deal, we think,” plant manager George Bellairs said. Out of 2,500 suppliers for General Motors in America, the company was one of 120 who won the award for two consecutive years. According to its website, Ca- BIZBUZZ cont’d on page 34 Cadillac Products Plant Manager George Bellaris (center) gives a plant tour to Schertz Mayor Michael Carpenter (left) and City Manager John Kessel. dillac Products Automotive Company is a third genera- tion family owned firm that provides a wide variety of protective plastic, exte- rior and interior acoustical and energy management parts to service the diverse needs of today’s automotive industry. It has been in business since 1942 and opened its Schertz office in 2006. It has 225 employees worldwide and about 30 workers in Schertz. It has more than $50 million in sales annually, its website states. “We supply parts directly to the automotive manufactur- er to their assembly plant,” Bellairs said. “In this plant (Schertz) we manufacture a part that’s called a water shield that manages water inside car doors but also is an acoustic part – it man- ages sound inside car doors.” The Schertz location also does what’s called energy management products, which are crash absorbing type materials. “That’s our primary focus as a company. We are a sup- plier to all the major manu- facturers in North America. In this location we supply GM, mainly in Mexico. We also ship parts to an assembly plant in Arlington that makes all of GM’s SUVs,” Bellairs said. The Schertz location also ships to Nissan in Mexico and Mississippi and to Chrysler in Mexico. Bellairs said he does an- ticipate Cadillac Products Automotive growing in the future. “We’ve got a number of opportunities in front of us right now. That’s one of the reasons that awards like this are helpful — with our customers recognizing us for outstanding quality, outstanding delivery and customer service. So over the last two years we have not shipped a single defec- tive part to General Motors — it’s unusual,” he said. “Usually people get a few that aren’t quite right or that they have a problem with or can’t use, but we’ve had zero quality issues for over two years with zero delivery issues,” Bellairs said. “In our business, there aren’t that many customers. I got four or five customers and that’s it. If one of them is unhappy with you — that really has a big impact.” With the automotive busi- ness expanding into the southwest and Mexico, Bel- lairs said the company was looking for a location that could easily service those areas and Schertz fit the bill. From Schertz Cadillac Products Automotive can service both GM’s assembly plant in Monterrey, Mexico and its big plant in Arling- ton. “We’re kind of midway be- tween those two locations. That’s a significant rea- son why we located here, initially. Also there’s good access here to freeways, so logistically it’s pretty easy. There a lot of opportunities to get trucks in and out or to share a load, so it makes a lot of sense from that point of view as well,” Bel- lairs said. The company plans on staying in Schertz because of the advantages it see in the area. Its workforce is mostly assembly workers, a few engineers and some FEATUREZ Cadillac Products cont’d from page 33 maintenance workers. The Schertz plant covers mainly the southern part of the United States and northern Mexico. In addition to the Schertz location, Cadillac Prod- ucts Automotive has three plants in Michigan and a location in El Marques, Queretaro, Mexico. The Michigan plants cover the more traditional automo- tive areas of Michigan, Ohio and Indiana. Bellairs said as the auto- motive industry continues to grow in Mexico and the southwest United States, the company will con- tinue to expand its Schertz location and is already in the process of launching a couple of new products that will be shipped to the Arling- ton plant. “It’s a good spot geographi- cally. We have pretty good work force here and it’s a nice area to live in. That helps retain people. It helps bring in the types of people that we need.” For more information on Ca- dillac Products Automotive Company, visit their website at cadprodauto.com. 35 schertzmagazine.com FEBRUARY 2014 Automotivation Rebuilding Old Cars and Young Lives By Stan Leland FEATUREZ Army veterans Chris Leverkuhn and Vic Hash talk to soldiers from Brooke Army Medical Center’s War- rior Transition Battalion during the grand opening of the “Automotiva- tion” program in San Antonio, Dec. 9, 2013. Behind them is a hybrid ve- hicle wounded service members put together, then dubbed “The Beast.” U.S. Army Photo by Robert Shields. Janis Roznowski was a flight attendant for American Airlines in 2003 when the airline was shuttling troops to Kuwait who were bound for the war in Iraq. “That first flight changed my life,” she recalled. “I could hear the drumbeat of war.” On her second shuttle, she took pictures of each of the men and had them write their names and addresses so she could send the pictures to their families. She repeated that on each shuttle. Before long the men began adding personal comments to their wives, children and parents along with their addresses. Roznowski then began passing out stationary and promised to mail the letters when she got back to the states and carried 240 letters after one flight. She made 14 shuttle flights and wanted to do more. Living in Austin at the time, she decided to drive to Brooke Army Medical Center cont’d on page 36 FEBRUARY 2014 schertzmagazine.com 36 FEATUREZ Automotivation cont’d from page 35 (BAMC) in San Antonio to see what she could do. The result was the formation of Operation Comfort in 2004. Using a variety of sports oriented programs such as bicycling, surfing, sled hockey and swimming, she helps wounded soldiers discover they aren’t as disabled as they originally thought. Roznowski’s strategy is to find out what soldiers and their families need and then find a way to meet that need. “I meet the need and then I see where that leads,” she said. One such journey involves Aaron Coates. He was driving a fuel truck in Iraq when his convoy was ambushed. Three rocket propelled grenades turned his vehicle into a rolling inferno. By the time he escaped the flaming cab, he was severely burned. After initial treatment, he was transported to the burn unit at BAMC. Due to third degree burns, most of his fingers were amputated. During his lengthy rehabilitation he met Roznowski. In Aaron’s case sports was not the answer. Roznowski asked him what he wanted to do. Having worked with his dad rebuilding old cars, he was worried about his amputated fingers. “I want to be able to handle tools so I can work on cars with my Dad,” he replied, “I don’t want to disappoint him.” With that request, the Automotivation program was born. Roznowski located garage space near Loop 1604 and IH 37 where Aaron and several others began working on cars. In 5 years of operation, hundreds of young men spent time getting grease and oil on their hands and life and hope back in their lives. After his therapy was over Aaron went home to California, got married and continues to work on cars. Roznowski recalled another young man with a traumatic brain injury. For six months his life consisted of therapy sessions, doctor’s appointments and morning roll call. The rest of the time he sat alone in his room mired in depression. He called home daily and tried to talk to his wife and son but the calls became frustratingly shallow for both parties. “I’ve been gone so long I don’t know how to talk with my son,” he lamented. Roznowski told him about the garage and he said, “I always wanted to learn how to work on cars but I never had anyone to teach me.” He showed up at the garage one day and the program director asked him what he wanted to learn. He said he’d like to work on an engine. The director showed him an old junker and said, “You and I will remove the engine.” After several hours the engine was out and the director said, “Now, you take it apart.” Feeling a little self conscious, he tackled the job of learning the anatomy of an engine. During that evening’s phone conversation he described his experience to his son who immediately became excited. “Dad!” he exclaimed. “I’ve always wanted to work on cars! Do you think when you Janis Roznowski (center) poses with Grumpy Azzoz (left) and Chuck Sulkala at an Automotivation location in Decem- ber. Roznowski is Operation Comfort Executive Director, Azzoz is a big supporter of programs for wounded vets and Sulkala is Director of the National Autobody Council. 37 schertzmagazine.com FEBRUARY 2014 get home we can get an old car and fix it up, together?” The daily phone calls were never a problem after that. For several years Automotivation sponsored a trip to the Specialty Equipment Manufacturer’s Association convention in Las Vegas. This is the premier showcase for aftermarket automotive accessories. Hundreds of exhibitors and thousands of attendees fill the exhibit hall with their passion for cars and trucks. One year, Roznowski invited a soldier to attend the convention with the group. She said, “He was like many of the men we see with ‘lifeless combat eyes.’ ” He reluctantly agreed to go along, but when he walked into the exhibit hall and began talking with exhibitors and other attendees something happened. Before long the life came back into his eyes and in this case, what happened in Vegas did not stay in Vegas. He came back a changed man. “Car guys have a language all their own; it is distinctly masculine and it touches these guys at a soul level,” Roznowski said. Coming out of combat units where tight relationships are the norm, the guys feel lost and disconnected. “Working on cars together helps restore that bond again,” she said. The Southside location for the garage lasted for five years, but the economic pressures of the South Texas oil boom pushed the rent on the garage out of Automotivation’s reach. For the past year and a half they have been trying to find another location. With the help of the National Auto Body Council, a longtime supporter, a lease space was found behind Grumpy’s Mexican Restaurant on FM 2252. In early December 2013, Automotivation had its official opening. With the help of Lt. Col. Eric Evans, Warrior Transition Battalion Commander at BAMC, servicemen are being recruited for the current restoration project. Working with Fort Sam’s AMEDD Museum, Automotivation is restoring a 1942 Army ambulance. The ambulance actually served in North Africa during WWII and once restored will be put on display in the museum. A chance flight in 2003 has become a passionate journey for Roznowski. “I get the guys and their families what they need,” she said. “You never know where we might end up.” Automotivation’s garage is located at 18811 Building J, FM 2252, behind Grumpy’s Mexican Restaurant. Operation Comfort’s website is operationcomfort.org. Donations are always welcome and are tax deductible. FEBRUARY 2014 schertzmagazine.com 40 CIVIC NEWZ YOUR EXCLUSIVE SOURCE FOR NEWS FROM THE CITY OF SCHERTZ Chief of Police Michael Hanson and Patrol Officer Gregg Flowers Deputy Marshal Wil Sutton and Marshal Beverly Todd Flowers & Sutton Named Officers of the Year for Police & Marshal Departments Other members of the Police Department honored were: Civilian of the Year ......................................................................Esther Mendoza Rookie of the Year ............................................................................Mitch Weston Detective of the Year ..............................................................................Virgil Jones Supervisor of the Year ...................................................................Martin Trevino Physical Fitness Award ...........................................................................John Ortiz Life Saving Award ....................................................................................A J Arriaga Life Saving Award ..............................................................................Rudy Jimenez Outstanding Service Citation ..............................................Colton Armstrong Outstanding Service Citation .............................................Christie Cosentino Outstanding Service Citation ......................................................Shawn Ceeko Finest Preparer of Nourishment .......................................................Mike Carey Outstanding Dance Moves ................................................................Ric Aleman Mr. Congeniality ....................................................................................Mike Harris Best Dressed ..........................................................................................John Correu Best Dressed .........................................................................................Manny Casas Challenge Accepted/Completed ...........................................Ernest Spradling Police Chief’s Award ...............................................................................Marc Bane FM 3009 Turn Around Helping Traffic Flow Traffic uses the newly opened north-to- south turnaround at FM 3009 and IH-35 North, December 20 morning. The turn- around opened late Friday, much to the joy of area drivers. The south-to-north turnaround at the same location should open by end of first quarter 2014, TxDOT said. Sewer Averaging Will Affect Residents’ 2013-14 Bills Sewer averaging for the winter months began on October 24, 2013, and continues through March 6, 2014, for cycle billing. Meter readings taken over this period de- termine your sewer average for the next billing year, which begins April 1. The readings will be averaged, and the average will be multiplied by $2.98 for residents with an average below 12,000 gallons. For residents with averages greater than 12,001 gallons, the average will be multi- plied by $3.83. That total will be added to the base rate of $5.06 for residential use. The resulting average will be your sewer charge for the next 12 months. For more information, visit Schertz.com or call 210- 619-1100. During the Schertz Police Department Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association Appreciation Dinner December 11, various staffers from the Marshal’s Office and Police Department were honored. Schertz PD Patrol Officer Gregg Flowers was named Officer of the Year by Chief of Police Michael Hansen. Deputy Marshal Wil Sutton was named Officer of the Year by Marshal Beverly Todd. Smith Earns CPM Designation Schertz HR Director Joshua Smith (center) holds his CPM accreditation after a gradu- ation ceremony. Flanking Smith are - Dr. Howard R. Balanoff, the William P. Hobby Professor of Public Service at Texas State University and Director of the Texas CPM Program, and graduation speaker Charmelle Garrett, City Manager of Victoria, Texas. City of Schertz Human Resources Director Joshua Smith earned his Cer- tified Public Manager (CPM) designa- tion on December 6, 2013 at the Texas State Capitol in Austin. The CPM program is a nationally accredited comprehensive statewide management development program specifically for managers in federal, state, and local government and for managers in the not for profit sector. The program’s primary goal is to im- prove the performance of public and not for profit sector managers and the organizational performance of state, local and federal government. It is a comprehensive course of study by which public managers can ac- quire and apply the best practices and theory to their management behaviors and strategies using prescribed sets of professional standards. The Texas CPM Program is a 7 course sequence which leads to a nationally accredited public manager certification. The CPM Program is offered by Texas State University’s William P. Hobby Center for Public service. In addition to Texas State Univer- sity, the CPM Program is offered by Texas State University in partnership with Texas universi- ties: Texas Tech, University of Texas Pan American, University of Houston, Sam Houston State University and Stephen F. Austin State University. 43 schertzmagazine.com FEBRUARY 2014 Gail Douglas Retires from the City After 31 Years Former Library Director Gail Douglas holds a City Flag during her retirement luncheon Wednes- day, December 18 in the Schertz Civic Center. Posing with Gail are (from left) Executive Director Bri- an James, Library Assistant Director Melissa Uhlhorn, Mayor Michael Carpenter and Executive Direc- tors John Bierschwale and David J. Harris. Gail worked for the City of Schertz for 31 years and friends and family (including her five sisters) congrat- ulated her own a successful career in helping build the library and other key parts of our community. SPD Tips to Help Stop Car Burglaries The Schertz Police Department asks to help pre- vent burglary to autos by utilizing the following tips. Locking your car and setting your alarm is just part of the solution to prevent a burglary to your auto. Even if locked and alarmed, if you leave valu- ables (or a hint of valuables) in plain sight, a thief may target your car, even knowing that it’s locked and alarmed. However, without a clear prize in sight, a locked/alarmed car will likely be bypassed for an easier “target of opportunity.” Some of the most commonly stolen items are: backpacks, gym bags, briefcases, cash/coins, wallets, purses, laptop computers, iPods, Tablets, portable GPS navigation systems, cell phones and anything of obvious value. • Don’t leave valuables in your car: That sounds like “common sense,” but drivers or pas- sengers leave items of value in plain view every day. If you leave valuable items visible in your car, your car is automati- cally a target. If you have to leave packages or shopping bags in your car unattended, lock them in the trunk out of sight. This includes leaving “loose change” in the console or cup holder. • Leave no trace: Don’t leave any “sign” that there might be valuables “out of sight” in your vehicle, such as docking stations or connector cables. Leave nothing in plain view that might make your vehicle worth getting into by a thief; especially coins or phone char- gers. Additionally, remove your garage door opener from plain view. Depending on how it is programmed, it could be used to open your garage, attached residence or building. • Lock all vehicle doors: Every year, we have items stolen from unlocked vehicles where the owner was only going to be gone “just for a second.” It only takes seconds to steal your belongings! • Set any alarm or anti-theft device: If you have one, use it! Many people believe that car alarms no longer make a difference, but they can be an effective deter- rent to an auto-burglar, who most often chooses the easiest target. To prevent and reduce the threat of falling victim to this crime, here are a few tips: 1400 Schertz Pkwy, Bldg. #5 (210) 619-1600 FE B R U A R Y E V E N T S Civic Center: Feb. 8 – Alamo City Cat Club CFA Cat Show Feb. 18 – Schertz Chamber Luncheon Feb. 22 – Guadalupe. County. Chapter Native Plant Society-Workshop Community Center: Feb. 2 – BVYA Baseball Registration Feb. 9 – BVYA Baseball Registration Feb. 15 – Alamo Pet Expo M, W, Th – Zumba 6:00pm Happy Valentines! From the Public Affairs & Civic Center Staff! FEBRUARY 2014 schertzmagazine.com 46 ANNUAL SPRING CLEAN UP DATES: MARCH 1-16, 2014 Drop off at Bexar Waste Site Items dropped off here will be free of charge to residents as a service paid for by the City of Schertz. The Drop off Site will be open March 1 – 16, 2014. (See below for hazardous items drop off times) Drop offs may be made at Bexar Waste’s temporary col- lection point, 2221 F.M. 3009 (Near Live Oak Road) between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. daily. EN- TRY TO THIS SITE IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO RESIDENTS DURING CITY SPONSORED SPRING AND FALL CLEAN UP EVENTS. Please Remember During the two-week clean up, Bexar Waste will pick up household waste not covered under their normal collection service, such as lumber and general trash as well as major appliances and furniture for a fee (prices determined by Bexar Waste). If you have questions regarding the de- tails, please call Bexar Waste (210-566-5454). Residents are able to drop off brush and limbs at 2221 FM 3009, free of charge, DUR- ING THE 2 WEEK CLEAN-UP EVENT ONLY. What you need to know: The Spring Clean Up is re- stricted to Schertz residents only. Waste delivered must be separated by type of material by the resident. Spring Clean Up activities do not apply to com- mercial/rental property clean ups, large property clean up, lot or acreage clean up, or lot and property land clearing. Commer- cial tree trimmers are not eligible for this service. A current water bill or tax statement and proper identifi- cation are required when mak- ing a drop-off. Commercial waste will not be accepted. LIMITS: Household waste and yard waste only. Maximum of 3 Pick-up truck loads per Household or a Maximum of 2 Trailer loads per Household, trailers are not to exceed 16’ long x 4’ high in size. 1. Couches, Refrigerators, Stoves, Computer/Monitors, anything and everything that IS NOT HAZARDOUS OR TIRES can be dropped off, free of charge, during the clean up, Monday through Sunday, 8:00 am to 6:00 pm. 2. Materials WILL BE sorted by customer, NOT BY Bexar Waste employees. 3. Appliances will be ACCEPTED FREE ONLY IF Freon tank is removed; if Freon tank is still attached there will be a $35.00 fee at time of drop off. Any ques- tions concerning the Freon tank removal, please contact Bexar Waste. Hazardous Items/Tires and Drop off Times 1. HAZARDOUS ITEMS and TIRES may be dropped off ONLY on the weekends of March 8-9 and 15-16, 2014. 2. Tires are limited to eight (8) per household. 3. Hazardous waste includes but is not limited to: • Insecticides, pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, chemicals, cleaning and bleach products, swim- ming pool cleaners and chemicals • 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. • TIRES are considered hazardous • Tires on rims, or wheels, commercial vehicle tires, tractor tires, and heavy equipment tires WILL NOT be accepted. • Hazardous waste such as used automotive and cooking oils, filters and batteries- Oils will have a combined 20 gallon limit per household. • Empty propane tanks up to seven (7) gallons – VALVE MUST BE ENTIRELY REMOVED. • Mercury WILL NOT be accepted. ---------------------------------------------- The City of Schertz and Bexar Waste are not responsible for damage to vehicles or injury to citizens during this event. The City of Schertz and Bexar Waste reserve the right to refuse service to anyone for not following the rules of the clean up. Roll up those sleeves! It’s time to clean out the garage, attic and closets. The Annual Spring Clean-up will run March 1-16 with hazardous material dropoff on the weekends of March 8-9 and March 15-16 only. During this time, residents may drop off items not covered under normal collection services. Tree limbs may be dropped off free of charge at 2221 FM 3009 (near Schertz Funeral Home). A maximum of three pickup-truck loads per household or a maximum of two trailer loads per household are permitted. Trailers cannot exceed 16 feet long by 4 feet high. There also is a combined limit of 20 gal- lons for paints/stains and a combined limit of 20 gallons for automotive/cook- ing oils. A current water bill or tax statement and proper identification are required when making a drop-off. Schertz Public Works provides year- round curbside chipping service for brush and tree limbs on Fridays for a fee of $25 per half-hour. To make an ap- pointment for this service, call 210-619- 1800. For more information, contact Bexar Waste at 21-566-5454 or visit schertz.com City of Schertz Elected Officials Mayor: Michael Carpenter (210) 619-1045 Council Members:Jim Fowler (210) 658-1442David Scagliola (830) 606-1130Cedric Edwards, Sr. (210) 566-4540Daryl John (210) 204-2750Matthew Duke (210) 204-8649 City Departments:City of Schertz (210) 619-1000Animal Control (210) 619-1550Business/Utilities (210) 619-1100City Manager (210) 619-1000City Secretary (210) 619-1030Civic Center (210) 619-1600Customer Care/311 (210) 619-1000Economic Development (210) 619-1070EMS (non-emergency) (210) 619-1400Fire (non-emergency) (210) 619-1300Human Resources (210) 619-1150Information Technology (210) 619-1180Inspections (210) 619-1750Marshal Services (210) 619-1650Municipal Court (210) 619-1500Parks & Recreation (210) 619-1850Planning & Zoning (210) 619-1780Police (non-emergency) (210) 619-1200Public Affairs (210) 619-1630Public Library (210) 619-1700Public Works (210) 619-1800Records (210) 619-1030Website schertz.com #info IMPORTANT SCHERTZ WEBSITES schertz.com visitschertz.com schertzmagazine.com Like us on Facebook February 2014 CITY CALENDARZ Tuesday, 4 City Council, 6:00 PM— Council Chamber Tuesday, 11 City Council, 6:00 PM— Council Chambers Wednesday, 12 Planning & Zoning, 6:00 PM - Council Chambers Monday, 17 City Holiday Presidents Day (offices closed) Tuesday, 18 City Council, 6:00 PM— Council Chambers Monday, 24 Parks & Recreation Advi- sory Board, 5:30 PM – Bob Andrews Room Board of Adjustments, 6:00 PM – Council Chambers Tuesday, 25 City Council, 6:00 PM— Council Chamber Wednesday, 26 Planning & Zoning, 6:00 PM - Council Chambers Thursday, 27 Economic Development Corporation, 6:00 PM - Council Chambers Meeting locations may change, please visit the calendar at www.schertz.com for confirmation. February Trail Rider Lunch; Thursday, February 6 March Wilenchik Walk for Life 5K; Saturday, March 1 Employee Remembrance Day; Thursday, March 20 April Absolute Jazz; Saturday, March 19 May Sweetheart Coronation; Thursday, May 1 Police Officer Memorial Day; TBD National EMS Week/Golf Tournament; May 18-25 Doggie Dash; Saturday, May 10 July 4th of July Jubilee; Thursday and Friday, July 3-4 September SchertzFest; Friday and Saturday, September 19-20 October National Night Out; Tuesday, October 7 Fire Prevention Week; October 5-11 Trunk or Treat; Friday, October 31 November Hal Baldwin Scholarship Golf Tourna- ment; Friday, November 1 Turkey Trot 5K; Thursday, November 27 Steve Simonson Volunteer of the Year/ Board and Commission Recognition; TBD December Festival of Angels; Friday and Saturday, December 5-6 Annual Events: OFFICE OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS 1400 SCHERTZ PARKWAY SCHERTZ, TEXAS 78154