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09_September 2015ma g a z i n e SEPTEMBER 2015 “My knee replacement was a big event – it was a game changer in many ways.” Johnny Polk christussantarosa.org/newbraunfels Proven. Progressive. Proud. When Johnny Polk needed joint replacement surgery, he chose the advanced treatments and superior technology at CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Hospital – New Braunfels. With pre-surgery education and preparation, the most advanced, minimally invasive surgical technology, and comprehensive rehabilitation services, there was no reason to go anywhere else for joint replacement. Johnny’s choice allowed him to get back to his active life...right here in New Braunfels. Visit christussantarosa.org/newbraunfels to hear Johnny’s story. It may be old school to see kids and their parents having fun with no electronic devices - but it is heartwarming. Next put on your tutu and jump into the story of Cibolo City Ballet. Wilder and Danae Herrouet, owners and directors of the dance studio, have a goal of offering youngsters who are dedicated and passionate about dance and who want to become professional dancers the opportunity to learn proper dance technique and gain experience performing before an audience. Cibolo City Ballet offers dance lessons focused on Classical Ballet, Pointe, Contemporary and Jazz for children, teens and adults. After reading the story you will want to jump on your tiptoes and try a pirouette. Since your toes are already sore why not give your knees some exercise with a bit of gardening - yes even in this heat. To prepare for that, read our story on the Demonstration Garden operated by the Guadalupe County Master Gardeners and located on Elbel Road. PUBLISHED MONTHLY BYPublic Affairs Department Linda Klepper Interim Public Affairs General Manager Chuck McCollough Editor Alexis Souza Graphic Design/Art Direction Chris Matzenbacher Account Manager Lucille Sims Thomas Copy Editor Contributing Staffers Erin Matlock Office Manager Mary Spence Events Manager Contributing WritersChuck McCollough, Lucille Sims Thomas, Amanda Mercer, Allyson Ortegon, Claudia Pharr,Jesus R. Garcia, Kari Bridges, Jim Webb, Stan Leland, Wendy Kinkade, Taryn McGillivray, Aubrey Parke, Kiko Martinez, Ashley Festa, Rudy Arispe, Mike Harris, Chris Meek, Tom Lovett, Kaylie Kennedy Contributing PhotographersChuck McCollough, Mary Spence, Joshua Nolden, Lisa Green, Diana Webb, Bryan Tobias, Mike Harris, Beverly McCollough, Ross Dye, Marc Bane, Michael Carpenter, Bryan Nguyen, Joe Herczeg, Andrea Allinger, Kari Bridges, Catherine White, Elizabeth Leland, Rudy Ornelas, Christopher Matzenbacher, Samuel Rhodes, Linda Klepper, Amanda Mercer, Calvin True, Elysia Santoya, Alyson Garcia, Erin True, Lisa Green, Kaylie Kennedy, Mike Bowers, Fiona Scoggin, Ethan Bookout, Terrell Mitchell, Mary Oaks, Cindy Kelleher, Aaron Davis. 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 Grumpy Azzoz CouncilmemberDaryl John CouncilmemberCedric Edwards, Sr. Councilmember Robin Thompson Councilmember Executive Team John Kessel City Manager Brian James Executive DirectorDudley Wait Executive DirectorBob Cantu Executive DirectorKyle Kinateder Executive Director 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 VOLUME 31 ISSUE 9 31 Years and counting...!I always chuckle when September rolls around. I remember my cousins in Indiana bragging about the change in weather to the cool of autumn in September and our lack of four seasons in South Texas. My reply - said while laughing - was that we sometimes get four seasons in one day - from really cold to really hot - down here. Growing up in San Antonio, September was the start of school, the start of football season and a reminder of putting up with hot weather two months longer than just about everyone else. The September issue of Schertz Magazine has a range of articles from cool to hot. Start out with two really cool stories about art related businesses in our area. Color Clay Studio in Schertz is a fun place where creativity is contagious and three generations of a family can make their own art piece at the same time while sitting in a group. Owner Ana Sanders said the paint-your-own ceramics shop offers a unique experience for people of all ages who would like to indulge their artistic side. Editor’z Letter By Chuck McCollough, Editor According to Master Gardeners Dale and Ann Odvody, the garden was established in 2009 with two goals: Provide horticulture education and training and to use the harvests from the garden to benefit Guadalupe County residents. Encompassing three fourths of an acre, the garden contains a summer garden and after the heat of summer passes, the fall vegetables are planted. Peaches, strawberries, pears and blackberries represent the fruit portion of the garden. Knowing what varieties to plant for our area, how and when to plant as well as weed and insect control are all questions that can be answered at the garden. After reading the story you will have a green thumb to go with your black-and-blue toes. Speaking of heat, read our two stories about economic development in Schertz and why it is not cooling off. The story about the Schertz Economic Development Corp. shows the can-do spirit and looking-forward posture of past and current city visionaries. A strategy that targets smart growth, sustainable growth and increased quality of life is central to the SEDC’s mission and a successful track record. Next learn about Kyle Kinateder, the city’s new Executive Director of Economic Development. Kinateder recently returned to SEDC after a stint with the San Antonio Economic Development Foundation. During his first tenure with the city of Schertz, Kinateder played a key role in attracting the 1.3 million square foot Amazon.com Fulfillment Center, the 365,000 square foot GE Oil & Gas expansion, and other companies that resulted in over 1,000 new jobs. With additional experience gained from his time in San Antonio, Kinateder is primed to work with SEDC and the city on the next chapter in Schertz’ bright future. Also look for stories on BVYA tournaments this past summer, YMCA campers playing City Council, and Lions who entertain teens. All that and more in Your Source For Hometown News - Schertz Magazine. FEATUREZ Demo Garden Growers 22 Color Clay 24 Cibolo City Ballet 26 BV Lions Run Teen Dance 30 DEPARTMENTZ FOCUZ: Kinateder 19 TALK OF THE TOWNZ Updatez 9 Visionz / Chamber 16 CIVIC NEWZ Updatez 38 CALENDARZ 47 ma g a z i n e SEPTEMBER 20 1 5 COVER Astin Bryson with Cibolo City Ballet performs during an event at the dance studio. Inside... 5 schertzmagazine.com SEPTEMBER 2015 P11 schertzmagazine.com P22 SEPTEMBER 2015 schertzmagazine.com 8 TALK TOWNZOF THE Schertz Magazine All Over The Map Take your copy of Schertz Magazine when you travel and take a photo of the mag and you in front of a recognizable place and send to events@schertz.com. You might just make it into the magazine.Thanks for takin’ us along ! In Albania... Sam and Melinda Birch took Schertz Magazine with them on a missionary trip to Albania. Pictured is Melinda holding up the magazine in front of the Skënder- beu Castle in Krujë, Albania. In Italy... Dr. Peter Holmes and Robin Getter took Schertz Magazine with them on a trip to Northern Italy and the Dolomite Range in the Alps. At at Disney World... The Wise family took Schertz Magazine with them to Disney World in Florida. Pictured are dad, Bill, and children, Brackan and Braylee. Mom Amy was taking the photo. 9 schertzmagazine.com SEPTEMBER 2015 SZ 32nd National Night Out October 6 South Texas will celebrate NNO on Tuesday, October 6, 2015 from 6-8:30 PM. Schertz residents and neighborhoods can register with the Schertz Police Department. Contact Officer Helen Lafitte at (210) 619-1264 or by email at hlafitte@schertz.com. NNO 2014 involved 37.8 million people in 16,124 communities from all 50 states, U.S.territories, Canadian cities, and military bases worldwide. National Night Out 2015 is expected to be the largest ever as the event turns 31. Along with the traditional outside lights and front porch vigils, most cities and towns cele- brate National Night Out with a variety of spe- cial citywide and neighborhood events such as block parties, cookouts, parades, festivals, visits from local officials and law enforcement, safety fairs, and youth events. 435th FTS Volunteers Spruce Up City, Serve Seniors About 25 officers from the 435th FTS (Fighter Training Squad- ron) at Joint Base Randolph donated their time for community service in Schertz on Friday, August 14. The officers worked at the Schertz Housing Authority, Veterans Memorial Plaza, the Schertz Area Senior Center and the Visitor Center/Chamber of Commerce building. The work included power washing sidewalks at the Housing Authority, landscape work at the Veterans Plaza and Visitor Center and serving meals at the Senior Center. The seniors de- lighted in talking with the officers, having lunch with them and having photos taken with the officers. VJ Day 70th Anniversary Observed in Schertz An overflow crowd of community members gathered at the Schertz Vet- erans Memorial Plaza on August 6 to commemorate the 70th anniversary of VJ (Victory over Japan) Day. The ceremony included a wreath to honor US military members who served in WWII and their families and a proclamation reading by Mayor Mi- chael Carpenter. The Clemens High School band played the National Anthem, a medley of the five ser- vice songs and Echo Taps. Near the wreath was a copy of the icon- ic photo of a sailor grabbing and kissing a nurse on VJ day. At the end of the ceremo- ny a couple (the man wearing a sailor cap) reenacted the famous kiss to the delight of the crowd. SZBVYA Hosts Prestigious State Tournament Schertz was host to one of the largest recreational softball tournaments in Central Texas as Buffalo Valley Youth Association (BVYA) hosted the PONY Softball Regional Tournament June 26-28. Fifty-nine teams, ranging from 5-year- old t-ball to 14-year-old fastpitch play- ers, battled in the scorching summer temperatures. The three-day event brought more than 700 softball players, coaches, and their families to the Schertz area. Johnie McDow, BVYA President, noted that, “Softball participation is on the rise in our community and BVYA is proud to contribute to the sport by offering the largest recreational youth softball program in the area.” Schertz area hotels were full to capac- ity, as noted by Norma Ramon, Direc- tor of Sales for Schertz’ Hampton and Fairfield Inns. “We were so busy, we had to turn away folks as the teams kept coming in.” Hampton Inn also served as the host hotel for the State tournament, providing meeting space for coaches and tournament directors during the event. Two of BVYA’s own teams placed high enough in the tournament to qualify to advance to the next level, the PONY Softball Nationals in Highland, Texas on July 16-18. The Bronco division All- Stars, coached by Juan Soliz, finished best in 6th place of 22 teams in their 12u age division. The Shetland divi- sion All-Stars, led by Coach Jeanne Bryant, finished 8th overall in their 6u age group of 20 teams. 13 schertzmagazine.com SEPTEMBER 2015 YMCA Campers Take Over City Council Chambers SZ A group of of Community First Campers from the Schertz Family YMCA visited City Council Cham- bers Monday, July 13, to learn about how the City of Schertz operates “Our purpose is to introduce youth in our community to the importance of civic responsibility and commu- nity service in a safe and fun environment,” said Curt Jaeger, Youth & Family Director at the Y branch. “All throughout the week, we are visiting different places in the community and learning the important role they play,” he said. City Manager John Kessel and city staff welcomed the Y youngsters and introduced them to the working of City government, including the role City Council plays. And what better way to do that than by letting some of the Y campers role play as Mayor and City Council members. A mock City Council was selected from Y campers and seated at the places real City Council members use. The rest of the Y campers were given the chance to role play as Schertz residents or visitors who could address the mock City Council. “I had a fun time learning where the Mayor works.” “I learned how they make decisions for our city.” FullReplacementDentures* Starting at $395 Per Set Comes With WarrantyExpires in 90 Days * Not Valid With Any Other Offer, No Cash Value. Free Exam& X-Ray $100 Value With This CouponExpires in 90 Days Extractions* Starting at $49 Per Tooth With Purchase of DenturesExpires in 90 Days * Not Valid With Any Other Offer, No Cash Value. Dental Implants* Starting at $1,400 Per Implant Make Your Appointment Today!Expires in 90 Days Price includes Implant and Abutment *Restoration Not Included. 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Join us for our Grand Opening on September 29 from 3 to 6 p.m. Call (830) 483-4900 to schedule an appointment today. 2140 Independence Drive New Braunfels, TX 78132 ElanWestpointe.com Texas DADS License Pending MAG/SchertzTales/9-15Photo: Charles Quinn Models now open | TheCrossvine.com A master-planned community in Schertz. SEPTEMBER 2015 schertzmagazine.com 16 Schertz Chamber Monthly Calendar of Events The Chamber-After Hours Mixer will be hosted September 3rd from 5:30 - 7:00pm Rockstar’s Place located at 1248 FM 78, Suite 101. Join us for food, fun, networking, and a chance to win Chamber CASH! *General attendance $10, Chamber Members FREE! The Chamber Monthly Luncheon will be September 15th from 11:30am - 1:00pm at the Schertz Civic Center. The featured topic is “Millennials in the Workforce” presented by Direct Development’s Craig Krause. Please RSVP your attendance by September 8th. *General admission $28 and $18 for Chamber Members. Biz Ed Class– Education for Your Business will feature local business owner Shirley Bennett of Barrett Cooper Accounting on the topic “Quickbooks for Small Business”. This hands on seminar will cover the basics of the “how to’s” of using Quickbooks in your business. Breakfast is sponsored by RBFCU. Class is from 7:30am to 9am. General Admission is $10 and Schertz Chamber Members are free. RSVP your attendance to Jana at 210-619-1590. Class is limited to the first 12 responders. Wood Creek Vapory 1420 Schertz Parkway Suite 200, Schertz, Tx 78154 PH: (210) 354-7598 www.woodcreekvapory.com MaidPro 9330 Corporate Drive, Suite 408 Selma, Tx 78154 PH: (210) 654-1600 www.maidpro.com/sanantonio Aim High Nutrition 2035 Universal City Blvd. Universal City, Tx 78148 PH: (210) 287-9863 www.facebook.com/ AimHighNutrition VIP Staffing 1256 FM 78, Suite 110 Schertz, Tx 78154 PH: (210) 892-0564 www.vip-staffing.com Welcoming our Newest Members! Home Living Showcase a SUCCESS! Thanks to all our vendors and attendees who came to our first annual Home Living Showcase! 445 people enjoyed freebies, information and tips on how to make their home and yard better. Special thanks to sponsors GVEC Home, CertaPro Painters, BHS Physicians Network and RE/MAX Corridor as well as our wonderful Ambassadors, Board Directors, SC MAC and our Clemens DECA Intern . Serving cities Schertz, Selma and Cibolo, covering 6 counties and over 100 miles of businesses, the Schertz Chamber of Commerce is your source for networking, marketing and advocacy. To find out how to join, stop by our offices at 1730 Schertz Parkway, call 210-619-1950 or go to our website at schertzchamber.org. Group Exercise Launch Saturday, October 17, 2015 Classes start at 8am Join us for the latest releases of our group exercise! 19 schertzmagazine.com SEPTEMBER 2015 continued on page 21 FOCUZFEATURE Special Section Dedicated to the Hard Working Employees at the City of Schertz Kinateder Keeps Focus On SEDC By Chuck McCollough Kyle Kinateder (pro- nounced Kin-a-ted-er), the new executive di- rector of the Schertz Econom- ic Development Corporation, grew up around economic development during his child- hood in Provo, Utah. “One of my fondest memo- ries as a kid was going to my father’s business and watch- ing the finishing touches on the architectural models and conceptual renderings. I re- member seeing models being made for all kinds of projects ranging from master-planned communities to proposed casinos along the Las Ve- gas Strip,” Kinateder said. The company specialized in creating design concepts and securing entitlements, which are used to attract funding for real estate developments. His father’s company left last- ing impressions that inspired Kinateder to pursue a career in real estate development. After high school, Kinateder worked full time for his father where he learned about pri- vate sector real estate devel- opment. He gained exposure to the industry through the many different positions he worked within the company and through interacting with architects, engineers, develop- ers and landowners. Kinateder also gained ex- posure to the public sector through close family friend and mentor, Leland Gamette, who worked as the Provo City Economic Development Di- rector. “Leland helped me to see a different side of the real estate development process that I also found intriguing,” Kinateder said. “I learned the value of partnering with local municipalities on real estate development projects, which included components such as incorporating long-range planning and workforce devel- opment goals that resulted in a greater community impact.” Kinateder worked throughout college for both his father and a national engineering firm while earning a bachelor of science degree in geography from Brigham Young Univer- sity. He also earned a master’s degree in city and metropoli- tan planning from the Univer- sity of Utah. Upon graduation, Kinateder was determined to apply his studies and continue his career by transitioning to the local public sector. But Kinateder’s future plans, like so many others, were changed when the national economic slowdown lingered. In 2011, Kinateder and his wife, Nicole, decided to look beyond Utah for the next chapter in their lives. “We looked for high growth areas and considered Arizona, California, and Texas” he said. Eventually they were led to the City of Schertz. “I had never heard of the City of Schertz before, so when I saw the job posting I googled the city and was excited to see that it was located along the Interstate 35 corridor where I had heard high-growth was occurring between Austin and San Anto- nio,” Kinateder said. Kinateder worked as an eco- nomic development analyst for two and a half years pro- viding support for all econom- ic development programs and projects within the city. “I was primarily respon- sible for compiling research; analyzing financial, demo- graphic, and legal informa- tion; ensuring compliance to local development incentives; assisting with development agreements; development facilitation; creating promo- Texas Gov. Greg Abbott and the Texas One Economic Develop- ment delegation (including Kyle Kinateder) visit the New York Stock Exchange. Kinateder is fourth from right (under Texas flag.) 205 FM 3009, Schertz, TX 78154 (210) 658-1717 / ChristianBrothersAuto.com Mon – Fri: 7am – 6pm Sat & Sun: Closed Nice difference.® Free local shuttle Free Wi-Fi Locally owned All makes and models Convenient location Back to School Specials FREE OILCHANGE SHOCKS/STRUTSSPECIAL & Free Wiper Blades With Any BG Cooling System Flush Free Alignment & Tire Rotation With Installation of 4 New Shocks or Struts Present coupons at vehicle check-in. Not valid with other discounts/offers. Expires 10/31/15. 21 schertzmagazine.com SEPTEMBER 2015 Kinateder Keeps Focus on EDC cont’d from page 19 FOCUZ FEATUREZSchertz businesses have access to a wide range of available workforce for every position... -Kyle Kinateder tional materials; and assisting with public meetings.” During his first tenure with the City of Schertz, Kinateder played a key role in attract- ing the 1.3 million square foot Amazon.com Fulfillment Center, the 365,000 square foot GE Oil & Gas expansion, and other companies that resulted in over 1,000 new jobs. In June 2014, Kinateder took a job as vice president of busi- ness recruitment for the San Antonio Economic Develop- ment Foundation (SAEDF). His new position included being part of the business recruitment team that focused on working with local, regional and national site selectors, real estate professionals and companies looking to relocate or expand in the San Antonio area. Just under a year after leaving Schertz, Kinateder was given an opportunity to return to Schertz, this time as the head of the city’s Economic Develop- ment Corporation. “My reason for wanting to re- turn to Schertz was simple. I’ve grown to love this city and I believe in its future. Schertz is a community with tremendous opportunity. For decades we have had stalwart economic development board members, city council members and mayors who have established a foundation needed to develop Schertz into a premier Texas community,” Kinateder said. During his time at the SAEDF he was given a unique op- portunity to see the Schertz community as it stands on its own and also how it fits in the bigger picture of the San An- tonio region. He developed a comprehensive understanding of the local real estate market, labor market, incentive offer- ings, and skill development programs. Kinateder believes that Schertz has emerged from a small community in the Northeast San Antonio area and is now positioned to become a major regional partner. “Amazon changed the national percep- tion of Schertz forever. Schertz is now seen by local and insti- tutional investors as a premier place within San Antonio for industrial and distribution facilities,” Kinateder noted. Since Amazon, Schertz was the first place to have a speculative building of over 100,000 square feet in over 5 years within the San Antonio market. The building was quickly leased and the developer is currently constructing a second build- ing. The success has attracted other developers looking to benefit from the strength of the Schertz market. And Kinateder isn’t the only one touting the community. On a recent trip to New York with Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, Kinateder witnessed Schertz getting national kudos from the governor. During national interviews on Fox and CNBC networks, Abbott told of his recent visit to the Schertz Amazon facility. The governor shared that he asked Amazon officials why they selected Schertz and while expecting to hear that the reason was the low taxes or the business friendly atmo- sphere, he was surprised to find that the main reason was the workforce. “Schertz businesses have access to a wide range of available workforce for every position in their company within a 15 minute radius that live in this area - from upper level management to entry level workers. That is a great strength for attracting new companies or helping retain existing ones.” In addition to our local work- force, Schertz businesses have access to the Workforce Solu- tions Alamo and the Alamo Colleges, which are great assets to ensure that they find and train the workers needed to run their companies. Kinateder, like many from around the country, has found that Texas cities, counties and communities like Schertz are great business friendly places to live and work offering an array of amenities for qual- ity of life and services to help established businesses grow and new ones to relocate or expand. We are excited to see how Kinateder draws upon his experiences in both the private and public sectors to help stimulate our local economy. Kyle Kinateder (right) visits with Gov. Greg Abbott. FEATUREZ The elevated bed method helps disabled people or anyone who finds it hard to garden at ground level. The garden is at desktop height, which allows space for a wheelchair underneath it. The Master Gardeners will construct, at a nominal cost, an elevated garden bed for those needing one. Elevated beds not only benefit disabled folks, they are perfect for preventing long- eared poachers from eating green beans, radishes, carrots and spinach. Because of its height, rabbits are unable to steal the crop, which is commonly the case if Demonstration Garden Growing Gardeners By Stan Leland The “Demonstration Garden” sign at the entrance of the Guadalupe County Annex building on Elbel Road has always piqued my curiosity. What are they demonstrating? For whom is the demonstration? According to Dale and Ann Odvody, Guadalupe County Master Gardeners, the garden was established in 2009 with two goals: Provide horticulture education and training and to use the harvests from the garden to benefit Guadalupe County residents. The garden was championed by Pct. 3 Guadalupe County Commissioner Jim Wolverton who secured the garden’s loca- tion next to the county annex office. Not only did he help guide the idea through Commissioner’s Court but he added his own “sweat equity” that first year helping install the fence and drip irrigation. According to Ann Odvody, who oversees the garden with husband Dale, “Jim was out here digging holes and ditches in the pavement-like soil.” The garden was started in the middle of a severe drought and “The ditch digger machine we used to dig our water lines was unable to break through the soil,” said Dale Odvody. “ We had to soak the area with water so we could dig.” The educational aspect of the garden is available to anyone interested in garden- ing. The garden is open on Tuesdays and Fridays from 8 to 11:30 a.m. (summer schedule). Anybody can come by and get a tour of the facility from one of the Master Gardeners and ask questions. This is a tre- mendous asset for those wanting to start or improve their backyard gardening. The garden demonstrates how to use raised bed and elevated bed planting. Simple tips are abundantly provided by the Master Gardeners. For instance, when constructing raised bed gardens the temptation is to make them 4’ wide. “That’s fine if the gardener is a man. But women have a shorter reach so a 3’ wide garden is a better width for women,” Ann said. planted at ground level. The demonstration garden also shows how to set up and use drip irrigation. Two years ago, Jim Wolverton asked Pulte Homes to donate a pavilion that is used SEPTEMBER 2015 schertzmagazine.com 22 23 schertzmagazine.com SEPTEMBER 2015 for shade and holding gardening classes. The rainwater from the pavilion’s roof fills a 30 gallon barrel with just one-quarter inch of rain. Residents interested in rain- water harvest and gravity flow irrigation can see it all set up at the garden. Encompassing three fourths of an acre, the garden contains a summer garden and after the heat of summer passes, the fall vegetables are planted. Peaches, strawberries, pears and blackberries represent the fruit portion of the garden. Knowing what varieties to plant for our area, how and when to plant as well as deo variety’ of tomato developed by Texas A&M and introduced each year at the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo.” Keyhole gardening is another demonstra- tion project in the garden. Originating from a humanitarian aid organization in South Africa, the keyhole garden com- bines raised bed, composting, lasagna gardening and recycling in one structure. The keyhole is a circle garden six feet in diameter. In the center is a chicken wire compost bin that allows the composted nutrients to flow into the surrounding garden. A wedge shaped cut-out in the garden’s perimeter allows easy access to the compost bin and the plants in the garden. Besides horticultural education, the gar- den benefits Guadalupe County residents in two other ways. Frequently, juvenile offenders are assigned community service as part of their sentence. Working in the garden counts toward their community service hours. During the garden’s first year when the fence and irrigation system were constructed, a young man spent the morning using a pick and shovel to break up the drought hardened soil. At the end of the day he told Dale Odvody, ”I need to work harder at school. I don’t want to spend my life digging ditches like this.” It is not uncommon for young offenders to continue helping at the garden after their sentence is over. One young lady was chronically late for school but found the garden rewarding enough that she was always ready to work when it opened. Her mom was grateful to see her develop self-motivation. The joy of gardening and helping the community is great “horticul- ture therapy.” Also, the harvest of the garden is donated to RACAP (Randolph Area Christian Assistance Program) and Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Marion. Since the first harvest in 2011 the garden has provided, free of charge, over 8 tons of high quality, fresh fruits and vegetables. This fall on Saturday, September 26 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., the garden will sponsor an Arts and Crafts and Gardening show. Cooking demonstrations by a local chef will be added to the established demon- stration projects. Approximately 30 local artists and craftsmen will display their merchandise as well. Those interested in renting a vendor booth can call 210-317- 6202 or 210-659-3315. The garden is a valuable source of practi- cal information for anyone interested in gardening and the garden’s harvest is feeding healthy produce to residents all over the area. Since the entire operation is run with volunteers and donations, the Demonstration Garden is a great part- nership between the county and private individuals. weed and insect control are all questions that can be answered at the garden. “We are always trying new varieties to see what grows best in our area,” Ann Odvody said. “Each year we grow the current ‘Ro- “The joy of gardening and helping the community is great “horticulture therapy.” Color Clay Brings Families Together By Kari Bridges FEATUREZ Schertz resident and business owner Ana Sanders was pursuing her life-long dream of sharing her love for art with others when she made the decision to open Color Clay Studio, a paint-your-own ceramics shop offering a fun, artistic experi- ence for people of all ages who would like to indulge their artistic side. In April 2014, Sanders decided the time was right to make her dreams come true when she saw a suitable space for rent in her hometown. With some assistance from the Small Business Development Center in New Braunfels, Sanders created her business plan, obtained permits and put contracts in place to secure the business location. In only six months, Sanders taught herself how to de- sign her own website and all marketing materials, includ- ing brochures, cards, and ads; hand-selected various vendors and suppliers; purchased all inventory; invested in becom- ing a member of the Schertz Chamber of Commerce; and learned accounting so she could do her own payroll and taxes. With the aid of her friends and family, she reno- vated and decorated retail space and officially opened the doors to Color Clay Studio on November 22, 2014. The 1,452 square-foot stu- dio. next to Abel’s Diner, offers hundreds of everyday and seasonal ready-to-paint ceramic pieces (also called “bisque”) and a large selection of both acrylic and underglaze paints. Sanders also has over 25 canvas painting designs with more added each month. There are several types of brushes, sponges, stencils, and stamps that patrons can use to create their own one-of-a-kind piece. Color Clay Studio is unique in that there are no studio fees – the price on the ceramic item already includes the price of the bisque, up to six colors of paint, as well as glazing and firing, so that the item will be microwave and dishwasher safe. General ceramics paint- ing is done in the main area of the studio or the party room may be reserved for studio events, canvas classes, and private parties (birthdays, bridal showers, company team building, etc.) For private parties, patrons may choose from three party packages that include a $30 party room fee and staff person to assist. The party room can accommodate 12- 14 people and has a 2-hour studio limit. The party host is welcome to bring in their own foods, drinks, and utensils. Each ceramics or canvas class includes an instructor who offers step-by-step instruc- tions on how to complete the selected project. Sanders explained the three- step process involved in the ceramics painting process: paint it, leave it and pick it up. After selecting the bisque SEPTEMBER 2015 schertzmagazine.com 24 25 schertzmagazine.com SEPTEMBER 2015 piece, the next step is choos- ing the type of paint (acrylic or underglaze) based on the intended use for the piece. Acrylic paints are used for decorative items and dry very quickly. “Schertz is centrally located between Austin and San Antonio, and we often have families who are driving through and just looking for something fun to do. They can paint their bisque with acrylic paint and take it home with them that same day,” Sanders said. If the piece will be holding food or drink, be placed in a dishwasher/microwave oven, or if the artist would prefer a glassy finish it will need to be painted with an underglaze paint and left at the studio for firing. Once the bisque paint dries, which takes one day in a dehumidified environment, the creative staff hand dips each item into a glazing solu- tion. When the glaze dries, the piece turns white, indicat- ing it is ready to be fired in the kiln. After the piece cools down, it is removed from the kiln and sanded and is then ready to go to its new home. Finished ceramic pieces will need to be picked up within 7-10 days. Sanders has invested in a Skutt Automatic Kiln, which is connected to a custom, built- in ventilation system. It can hold more than 200 pieces and takes approximately 24 hours to slowly heat up to 1,855⁰ Fahrenheit. “It’s a labor-inten- sive process; it’s not difficult but very time consuming,” she said. Sanders believes it is im- portant to give back to the community and offers various group/military discounts and fundraising opportunities to benefit local nonprofit agen- cies and events. In October, Color Clay Studio will be host- ing an event in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Each participant will paint a ceramic mug with the cancer awareness ribbon design on it. Each mug may be purchased and painted differently to rep- resent different ribbon colors for different types of cancer. Patrons may choose to either keep their finished mugs or donate it. Color Clay Studio will collect all donated mugs and deliver them to hospital- ized cancer patients and will include a message of hope inside each mug. Other community involve- ment projects have included offering free canvas classes at the Battered Women’s Shel- ter of San Antonio and free face-painting to children who participated in the Schertz Area Easter Egg Hunt at Pick- rell Park. Since opening, Color Clay Studio has hosted several daycare/school field trips for young children – at the studio and as well as off site. “I have always loved ceramics and have had a passion for it. It fills my heart with happiness when the studio is full and I look around and see the kids are all having a good time,” Sanders said. Visit Color Clay Studio at the Tri-County Shopping Center, 17327 IH 35 in suite 202, next to Abel’s Diner or online at www.colorclaystudio.com to download a complete monthly calendar of events, including business hours, classes, spe- cials, week-long children’s art camp classes (ages 6 and up) and themed-party packages. For information on how to register for ceramics, canvas, or art camp classes, call 210- 231-0196. “I have always loved ceramics and have had a passion for it.” SEPTEMBER 2015 schertzmagazine.com 26 Young dancers who as- pire to one day become professionals now have a local ballet/dance studio with teachers who have the technical knowledge, profes- sional dance experience and connections to launch them into the professional dance world. This past January, Wilder and Danae Herrouet, owners and directors of Cibolo City Ballet, opened their dance studio at 3893 Cibolo Valley Drive in the Cibolo Valley Retail Center. Their goal is to offer young- sters who are dedicated and passionate about dance and who want to become profes- sional dancers the opportunity to learn proper dance tech- nique and gain experience performing before an audi- ence. Wilder and Danae have both danced for numerous pro- fessional ballet companies around the world. Danae began her dance career as a student in Venezuela training with Russian ballet instructors and later winning a scholarship to attend the Kirov Academy of Ballet in Washing- ton D.C. When she turned 17, she danced professionally as a soloist dancer for ballet com- panies in Venezuela, Mexico, and the United States before being invited to be a part of Ballet San Antonio. Wilder began his professional dance career at age 16 when he became part of an acceler- ated professional program with the Camaguey Ballet Company in Cuba where he earned a university dual- degree as a dancer/instruc- tor. After graduating from the program, Wilder went on to dance with the Camaguey Ballet Company as a company dancer for six years before dancing with professional bal- let companies in Costa Rica, FEATUREZ Cibolo City Ballet is Tip Toe Talent By Kari Bridges 27 schertzmagazine.com SEPTEMBER 2015 continued on page 29 Florida and Minnesota prior to dancing with Ballet San Antonio. Both Wilder and Danae share the same passion for ballet and wanted to open their own ballet/dance studio where they could combine their knowledge of dance with the freedom to develop their own artistic ideas. After research- ing the Schertz/Cibolo area, they discovered it is a young, growing community centrally located between San Antonio and New Braunfels where they could offer dance instruction and that it also has opportuni- ties for community involve- ment. Currently, Cibolo City Ballet is committed to fulfilling the needs of students of all ages and levels of experience from dancers who are aspiring to becoming professional danc- ers to the recreational dance student. Dance lessons focus on Classical Ballet, Pointe, Contemporary and Jazz for children, teens and adults and are conveniently offered Monday - Saturday. For infor- mation on fall 2015 classes, tu- ition/fees and dress code, visit www.cibolocityballet.com. As part of the dance curricu- lum, Wilder and Danae believe it is important to offer their students as much perfor- mance exposure in front of an audience in a variety of experi- ences. She explained that perform alongside Russian professional ballet dancers in this season’s “Nutcracker” Bal- let at the Majestic Theatre for a total of three performances scheduled for December 27th and 28th. Open auditions for this season’s “Nutcracker” will be held at Cibolo City Ballet on Sunday, September 13th, time – TBD. “We are trying to offer them as much audience exposure as they can get. The more students get to perform and be on stage, the better to achieve this growth rather than just practicing in the studio every day. This is a great opportu- nity for them to perform with a professional company like the Moscow Ballet and we are very excited. Auditions will be open to students at other stu- dios who may want to partici- pate. Every rehearsal starting in September – December will be held here at Cibolo City Ballet,” Danae said. In June, Cibolo City Ballet Cibolo City Ballet students are selected to join their Perfor- mance Company that will rep- resent the studio in regional/ national/international dance competitions, local Schertz and Cibolo annual events as well as special performances. Danae shared the exciting news that Cibolo City Ballet company will be partnering with the Moscow Ballet Com- pany to have their dancers Sock Hop - Polka Dots! Poodle Skirts! Rolled-up Sleeves and Leather Jackets! All were on display at the Night at the Sock Hop event Friday, August 7. Sounds of the 50’s came alive with East-Texas’ Shake, Rattle & Roll. The dynamic group led guests in the Hand Jive and The Stroll; sang a sa- lute to our service men and women, and invited Mayor Michael Carpen- ter (wearing a leather jacket) onstage to join them in a song. 29 schertzmagazine.com SEPTEMBER 2015 dancers had the opportunity to perform with the Ballet La- tino de San Antonio at St. Phil- ip’s College. Dancers will soon begin practicing for various dance competitions includ- ing the 2016 Youth America Grand Prix ballet competition, a prominent annual regional/ national/international student dance competition open to dancers ages 8-19. Dancers Cibolo City Ballet cont’d from page 27 FEATUREZ will be awarded scholarships to leading dance schools in the United States and abroad. The regional competition will be held in Austin, January 15- 17 with the national competi- tion scheduled to be held in New York in April 2016. “Since we opened in January our business is going very well and we have approximately 50 students. It is our hope to eventually expand to the space next door and offer more styles of dance for those students who may not want the strict discipline of ballet,” Danae said. For more information on how your dancer can get involved, email info@ cibolocityballet.com or call 210-570-5285. “Dancing is creating a sculpture that is visible only for a moment.” Erol Ozan SEPTEMBER 2015 schertzmagazine.com 30 FEATUREZ Buffalo Valley Lions Run Famous Teen Dance By Jim and Diana Webb 31 schertzmagazine.com SEPTEMBER 2015 The Schertz community is fortunate to be home to two Lions clubs. The older of the two is the Schertz- Cibolo Buffalo Valley Lions Club, normally referred to as the Buffalo Valley Lions Club, chartered in February 1992. The club presently has 23 members, including charter member DC Morgan, and meets on the fourth Thursday of each month. The meetings begin at 7 p.m. in the arts and crafts building at the Schertz Senior Center, 204 Schertz Parkway. Lions Club International was founded in Chicago in 1917 by businessman Melvin Jones who believed that you can’t get very far if you’re not interested in doing good for others. His philosophy is reflected in the Lions motto – “We Serve.” Several of the Lions service projects relate to vision assistance. This followed a speech given by Helen Keller at the 1925 Lions Inter- national convention. In it, she challenged club members to become “knights of the blind in the crusade against darkness.” The Buffalo Valley Lions Club is very involved in vision-related service projects. Several times each year, the club conducts free vision screenings for children ages six-months to five years, using special equipment designed to screen children who are not yet able to read an eye-ex- amination chart. The club refers families whose children have a vision issue to a local optometrist for further evaluation. When needed, the club provides financial continued on page 33 assistance to families to obtain eyeglasses for their child. The club also sponsors the Lions’ Mobile Eye Screening Unit, (MESU) which provides vision screenings and blood pressure checks for people 12 years and older. Since 1996, the Buffalo Valley Lions Club has screened over 2000 people through the MESU. The club is active in service to area youth. One of their most popular service proj- ects and their principal fundraiser is the Teen Dance for Middle School Students. It’s held on the last Friday of each month, except in December, from 7-10:30 p.m. in the Schertz Community Center , 1400 the school district, and only “clean” music is played. There are adult chaperones and police security is provided. Parents are welcome to observe the activity at any time. The club has hosted this dance for the past 20 years! The club makes an annual donation to the Texas Lions Camp in Kerrville and therefore is able to sponsor several chil- dren with qualifying physical and medi- cal conditions every summer. The camp runs week-long sessions throughout the summer, and provides the campers with a variety of fun activities. Recognizing that area high schoolers are required to complete a certain number of community service hours prior to gradua- tion, the club organized a community Leo club, a Lions organization for students. The Buffalo Valley’s Leo club is open to students between the ages of 16 and 18. Leo members participate with the host club in the various service projects and, in addition to accruing community service hours, learn the value of helping others. The club also supports the Project Gradu- ation programs at both Clemens and Steele high schools and provides eligible students at eight Schertz-Cibolo-Univer- sal City ISD (SCUCISD) schools with all Schertz Parkway. Admission cost is $7, concessions are available for purchase, and there is a DJ play- ing music. Club president Adriana Martinez empha- sizes the dance is a clean and safe activity where students can so- cialize and dance. There is a dress code, the same one imposed by PROVI DENCECOMMUNITY CHURCH Proclaiming the Gospel, Embracing the Doctrines of Grace Proclaiming the Gospel, Embracing the Doctrines of Grace Join Us this Sunday Member Sunday School: 9:30 am | Worship Service: 11:00 Currently Meeting at the Schertz Civic Center: 1400 Schertz Pkwy, Building #5 Schertz, TX 78154 210-858-8503 | pcc_schertz@yahoo.com www.pcc-schertz.com A reformed church and member of the SBC. the supplies needed to start school. Club members are active in supporting the needs of area senior citizens, providing holiday meals, transportation to doctors, and assisting at Bingo. Over the years, the club has sponsored community clean-up events and assisted in relief activities following severe floods. The Buffalo Valley club is an active partner with RACAP, the Randolph Area Christian As- sistance Program, which seeks to address the unmet needs of deserving area residents. In discussing with us how the club attracts new members, president Adriana Martinez chuckled and explained she tries to do to others what was done to her. That is, ask them to give an hour or two of their time to help on a particular event. After they participate in that event, then ask them to assist on another project. Hopefully, by the time they have experienced the value and the joy that comes from being in service to others, they are “hooked” and are eager to join. She emphasized the club tries to give each member the op- portunity to contribute to the club’s success by encouraging members to apply their unique skills, talents and interests to the tasks at hand. She pointed out that the Leo club is a potential source of members in the adult club. In fact, two former Leo club members recently joined the Buffalo Val- ley club. Martinez stressed that one of the attractions of the Lions club is that it provides mem- bers the opportunity to serve others in a variety of ways. This service often results in discovering that the project in which you were involved has opened a door for someone who may have thought there were no doors that would open for them. If you would like to learn more about the Buffalo Valley Lions Club, you are welcome to come to the monthly meeting, find them on Facebook, or contact Martinez at 210-630-5708 or at amart77@sbcglobal.net. BV Lions Run Famous Teen Dance cont’d from page 31 FEATUREZ 19750 HWY 46 WSuite 104 1201 S. MainSuite 118 1659 HWY 46 WSuite 160 1264 FM78Unit 115 337 Bulverde New BraunfelsBoerne San Antonio 78 Schertz Where every patient is seen by a physician. We accept bLUe crOss bLUe shieLD & tricare. www.UrgentCareOfTexas.comOPEN 7 Days a wEEk uNtil 8Pm 8am-8pm M-F • 10am-8pm Sat-Sun Get in. Get out. Get well. Schertz AT THE CORNER OF 3009 AND FM78 sports and camp physicals! D Diagnostic Hearing Evaluations for Children and Adults Hearing Aid Fitting and Consultations Hearing Aid Repairs Custom Hearing Protection Tinnitus Evaluations Contact Us Today! Doss Audiology & Hearing Center 5000 Schertz Parkway, Suite 300 Schertz, TX 78154 Phone: 210.819.5002 www.dossaudiology.com Currently Accepting New Patients OUR SERVICES Deciding to have a baby is a very personal decision, but many couples share a common challenge. When things are not going as expected, it’s common to receive well- meaning but unsolicited advice. Perhaps a friend, a relative or a co-worker will volunteer their experiences and start giving advice. As helpful as this might be, if you are having a difficult time achieving a pregnancy, or are worried about conceiving, please consult with an experienced health care provider. Often, just knowing what is normal can serve as a guidepost. It is crucial to find an experienced physician who can focus on your specific concerns and can educate you about fertility issues. During your initial visit, your physician will compile a detailed medical and surgical history before giving you a clinical exam. Many assessments can yield a plan of action within a visit or two. Often, the solution is a simple one. Your physician will personalize a treatment plan that’s right for you. Don’t let fear of the unknown be a barrier to your success. Most modern fertility assessments take place either in a brief office visit or even in the privacy of your home with detailed instructions. Starting the process can be a wonderful and informative look into your own health. A positive focus on the journey ahead is often the best way to arrive at the destination. Consider writing down your goals and personal health concerns and bringing them with you to the first visit. Write down all the methods you have heard about or have considered, and be honest about your worries and the timing of your desired pregnancy. Stay focused during your doctor’s visit and feel free to communicate any fears or barriers to success that concern you. In short, achieving pregnancy can be a phenomenal experience. Each couple may experience a unique set of circumstances on their journey. Be prepared for your initial visit and be honest with your physician when exploring the topic and you may find the help that you need. Fertility Concerns of Today’s Couples Henry Garza, III, MD Board Certified Obstetrics & Gynecology 16977 IH 35 North, Suite 210 Schertz, TX 78154 (210) 226-7827 HENRY GARZA, III, MD Board Certified Obstetrics and Gynecology NOW IN SCHERTZ OBSTETRICS, GYNECOLOGY, INFERTILITY & PELVIC RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY Committed to high quality and compassionate care of all women, Doctor Garza is well-trained in the latest technology our specialty has to offer, including innovative laproscopic techniques for pelvic surgery and reconstruction. He performs surgical procedures and deliveries at Northeast Baptist Hospital. Habla español, también. SCOPE OF PRACTICE: • High risk pregnancy management• Vaginal & robotic pelvic surgery • Bioidentical hormone & menopause management • In-office sterilization & treatment of heavy periods ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS ACACIA OB/GYN - SCHERTZ 16977 IH 35 North, Suite 210 Schertz, TX 78154 (210) 226-7827 Book an Appointment Online! BHSPhysiciansNetwork.com Affiliated with Baptist Health System BHS282N ACACIA 7_5x5_GarzaAD.indd 1 5/19/15 9:41 AM TO SCHEDULE YOURAPPOINTMENT!210.658.7200CALLTODAY 3893 Cibolo Valley Dr. #104 Cibolo, Texas 78108 Quality Dental Care in a Soothing Spa Environment www.CiboloDentalCenter.com · Mon-Thur 7-4pm · Fri 7-12pm Dr. AngieEnriquez Come in and unwind in one of our relaxing massage chairs as you enjoy Cibolo Dental’s first-class service. magazine OCTOBER 2014 magazine NOVEMBER 2014 maga z i n e APRIL 2015 Civic Center: Holiday - September 7, 2015 Alamo City Cat Show - Sept 5 S.A. Record Convention - Sept 12-13 KM Impressions Modeling Classes - Every Tuesday evening in September Schertz Chamber Luncheon - Sept 15 Community Center: Demory Ballroom Dancing - Every Monday at 8:00 pm Senior Line Dancers - Every Tuesday at 9:00 am September 25 - Lions Club Teen Dance TECHNOLOGY YOU EXPECT FROM A BIG BANK. SERVICE YOU DON’T. frostbank.com (877) 862-4900 MEMBER FDIC We’re here with online banking, mobile banking, 1,200+ ATMs and a banker that answers the phone when you call. SEPTEMBER 2015 schertzmagazine.com 38 CIVICNEWZ YOUR EXCLUSIVE SOURCE FOR NEWS FROM THE CITY OF SCHERTZ How to Prepare for an Emergency Heavy rain in June is reflected in the drain- age channel running under the Schertz Parkway bridge near Live Oak Road. Officials urge residents to have a plan for deal- ing with an emergency like flooding that hit Schertz twice at the turn of the millennium. Emergency preparedness is often the difference between surviving or not in a disaster. “Preplanning and preparing can and will be key for you and your family’s wellbeing during a disaster” said Chris Meek, City of Schertz Emergency Management Coordinator. Experts advise families to have a plan for dealing with emer- gencies such as weather events or man-made disasters like a chemical spill. One of the first steps families can take is to have a disaster supply kit - a simple collection of basic items a household may need in the event of an emergency. Try to assemble your kit well in advance of an emergency. You may have to evacuate at a moment’s notice and take essentials along. You will prob- ably not have time to search for the supplies you need or shop for them. Families and individuals may need to survive on their own after an emergency. That means having your own food, water and other supplies in sufficient quantity to last for at least 72 hours. Local offi- cials and relief workers will be on the scene after a disaster but they cannot reach every- one immediately. You could get help in hours or it might take days. Additionally, basic ser- vices such as electricity, gas, water, sewage treatment and telephones may be cut off for days or even a week, or longer. Your supply kit should contain items to help you manage during these outages. There are a number of Inter- net web sites that tell how to put together emergency pre- paredness kits or have them available for purchase. Those include federal government sites and private agencies like the American Red Cross. Here are several of the web sites: • www.redcross.org/ prepare/location/home- family/plan • www.nfpa.org/safety- information/for-con- sumers/emergency- preparedness • www.ready.gov/make- a-plan 39 schertzmagazine.com SEPTEMBER 2015 And the American Red Cross has suggestions on how to stay safe with an emergency plan. Those suggestions are: • Meet with your family or household members. • Discuss how to prepare and respond to emergencies that are most likely to happen where you live, learn, work and play. • Identify responsibilities for each member of your household and plan to work together as a team. • If a family member is in the military, plan how you would respond if they were deployed. • Plan what to do in case you are separated during an emer- gency. • Choose two places to meet: Right outside your home in case of a sudden emergency, such as a fire. Outside your neighborhood, in case you cannot return home or are asked to evacuate. • Choose an out-of-area emergency contact person. It may be easier to text or call long distance if local phone lines are overloaded or out of service. Everyone should have emer- gency contact information in writing or saved on their cell phones. • Plan what to do if you have to evacuate. • Decide where you would go and what route you would take to get there. You may choose to go to a hotel/motel, stay with friends or relatives in a safe location or go to an evacua- tion shelter if necessary. • Practice evacuating your home twice a year. Drive your planned evacuation route and plot alternate routes on your map in case roads are impassable. • Plan ahead for your pets. Keep a phone list of pet-friendly hotels/motels and animal shelters that are along your evacuation routes. Schertz Fire Rescue officials also urge residents to be aware of potential harsh weather and the flood threat it may pose. Their advice is to monitor traditional media outlets like TV, radio and news organization web sites and established and reputable social media sites for information on the weather and official announcements regarding precautions and possible evacuation. SFR officials point to the swift and destructive flooding in Wim- berley, Texas several months ago as an example of the need to be prepared and aware when violent weather is on its way. They also advised knowing what high ground you will head for in the event of flooding and to not be afraid to make the decision to leave. “Schertz Parkway Physical Therapy has advertised in the Schertz Maga- zine for several years. Every month the magazine showcases numerous local businesses and community events. We have enjoyed the oppor- tunity to advertise in the magazine. We feel that the quality of the adver- tisement along with the amount of people who read the magazine gives a great opportunity to grow our company. Thank you for doing such a Great Job! Dr. Felix and Aida Guerra Schertz Parkway Physical Therapy 41 schertzmagazine.com SEPTEMBER 2015 Annual Fall Clean Up Dates: October 3 – 18, 2015 Drop off at Bexar Waste Site Items dropped off here will be free of charge to resi- dents as a service paid for by the City of Schertz. The Drop off Site will be open October 3 – 18, 2015. (See below for hazardous items drop off times) Drop offs may be made at Bexar Waste’s temporary collection point, 2221 F.M. 3009 (Near Live Oak Road) between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. daily. ENTRY TO THIS SITE IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO RESIDENTS DURING CITY SPONSORED SPRING AND FALL CLEAN UP EVENTS. Please Remember For a fee, Bexar Waste will pick up household waste not covered under their normal collection service, such as lumber and gen- eral trash as well as major appliances and furniture (prices determined by Bexar Waste). If you have ques- tions regarding the details, please call Bexar Waste (210-566-5454). Residents are able to drop off brush and limbs at 2221 FM 3009, free of charge, DURING THE 2 WEEK CLEAN-UP EVENT ONLY. What you need to know: The Fall Clean Up is restrict- ed to Schertz residents only. Waste delivered must be separated by type of material by the resident. 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 water bill or tax statement and proper identification are required when making a drop-off. Commercial waste will not be ac- cepted. LIMITS: Household waste and yard waste only. Maxi- mum of 2 pick-up truck loads per household or a maximum of 1 trailer loads per household, trailers are not to ex- ceed 16’ long x 4’ high in size. Couches, Refrigera- tors, 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 Sun- day, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Materials WILL BE sorted by customer, NOT BY Bexar Waste employees. Appliances will be AC- CEPTED FREE ONLY IF Freon tank is removed; if Freon tank is still at- tached there will be a $35.00 fee at time of drop off. Any questions con- cerning the Freon tank removal, please contact Bexar Waste. Hazardous Items/ Tires and Drop off Times HAZARDOUS ITEMS and TIRES may be dropped off ONLY on the weekends of October 10- 11 and 17-18, 2015. Tires are limited to eight (8) per household. Hazardous waste in- cludes but is not limited to: • Insecticides, pesti- cides, herbicides, fertilizers, chemicals, cleaning and bleach products, swimming pool cleaners and chemicals • Enamel and latex paints in cans and aerosol dispensers, varnish and stains, paint thinners and re- movers, acetone, etc.- These items will have a combined 10 gallon limit per household. • TIRES are considered hazardous • Tires on rims, or wheels, commercial vehicle tires, tractor tires, and heavy equip- ment tires will not be accepted. • Hazardous waste such as used automotive and cooking oils, filters and batteries- Oils will have a combined 10 gallon limit per household. • Empty propane tanks up to seven (7) gal- lons – VALVE MUST BE ENTIRELY REMOVED. • Mercury WILL NOT be accepted. Questions? For more information about the Fall Clean Up and what will and will not be accepted, please call Bexar Waste (210-566- 5454) or Schertz Public Works (210-619-1800). You may also dial 311 within the City of Schertz. The City of Schertz and Bexar Waste are not re- sponsible 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. Any items brought that are not listed/accepted or are over limits are subject to a fee (at Bexar Waste’s discre- tion). Leigha M. Nielsen, OD 17460 IH 35 North, Suite 412 Schertz, TX 78154 210.590.2482 www.schertztso.com Caring for the Eyes of Texas Since 1936 80% of Learningis Visual Be sure your child has an annual eye exam, especially during the start of a new school year. Back-to-School specials running August - September SchertzTales Ad.indd 1 2/11/15 1:16 PM SEDC Sparks New Development By Chuck McCollough Local business owner, Tim Brown serves as president of the Schertz Economic Devel- opment (SEDC) Board of Di- rectors. During our interview with Brown he recounted the history of the SEDC and some of the more significant projects this community has seen dur- ing his seven years of service. In the early 1990’s, under the direction of the Economic De- velopment Task Force, the city created an economic develop- ment and implementation plan that included a partnership with the local chamber of com- merce. According to city re- cords, “Mayor Sawyer advised the economic development plan on the basis that it would be another building block in our building for bringing more businesses to Schertz in an effort to keep our ad valorem tax lower.” By the late 1990’s the city began strategically planning for the next steps in growing the local economy. Part of the plan included the formation of an economic development corporation, which many other Texas communities had al- ready done. The Development Corporation Act of 1979 al- lowed cities to finance new and expanded business enterprises in their local communities through an economic develop- ment corporation (EDC). In 1997, Schertz residents voted to approve the estab- lishment of an EDC and the collection of half a cent of sales tax. The new revenue would be used for economic develop- ment projects that bring mon- ey into the community through the creation and retention of primary jobs. The measure passed and the Schertz Economic Develop- ment Corporation (SEDC) was created. The SEDC allowed the city to use the funding for eligible projects including: the acquisition of land, machinery and equipment; construction costs; planning and profes- 43 schertzmagazine.com SEPTEMBER 2015 sional services for related projects; financial transactions and reserve funds; and ad- ministrative and other neces- sary expenditures to promote economic development. Ken Greenwald was one of seven original directors of the newly created SEDC and said the directors spent a lot of time explaining what the new SEDC was and what it could do. “We met with a lot of folks and answered a lot of ques- tions about how EDCs work to attract new business and expand existing businesses,” said Greenwald, a long-time civic leader who also served on City Council and is currently the President of the Schertz- Seguin Local Government Corporation. Over the past 17 years the SEDC has been influential in achieving its purpose of at- tracting and retaining primary jobs and bringing new money into the city. “During my tenure, one of the earliest and most successful projects funded by the SEDC was given in the form of a loan to subsidize the cost of infrastructure improvements associated with the new medical-theme complex for Schertz Parkway Professional Plaza (SPPP),” said Brown. SPPP is located at 5000 Schertz Parkway and currently consists of six buildings totaling over 50,000 square feet and is used by health-care providers and related businesses. Brown singled out SPPP as a particularly good example of how the SEDC benefits the community. The suc- cess of SPPP has helped draw more health-care providers into investing in Schertz and ultimately led to the location of the Baptist Emergency Hos- pital on Schertz Parkway and Interstate 35. SPPP developer Cary Birming- ham has seen the Schertz health-care sector grow by leaps and bounds since he broke ground in April of 2010. “I still get calls to this day ask- ing if space is available in our complex,” Birmingham said recently. In 2012, the SEDC was involved in another project that had great impact on the City of Schertz. “When Sysco opened its state- of-the-art facility on Interstate 35 and Schwab Road it really kicked things off for us because it showed what a great loca- tion Schertz is – especially for a large, national company,” Brown said. Recently, the SEDC has been instrumental in the attraction of Amazon.com, Caterpillar, and GE Oil and Gas. These companies reflect over a thousand jobs and hundreds of millions of dollars in invest- ment keeping true to the SEDC stated purpose of helping the City of Schertz develop as a premier Texas community that promotes family atmosphere sustained by foresight and innovation and continues a long-standing commitment to economic prosperity. Since its early beginnings and throughout the years, under numerous and diverse lead- ership styles, the SEDC has been successful in attracting and retaining jobs for the city, which has spurred continued investment into the local economy that directly supports community, opportunity and continued service for the city’s future. Brown is proud to be a con- tributing member of the SEDC board of directors and working together with the other mem- bers of the board, City Council and the staff to promote the mission and welfare of the city. The board meets every fourth Thursday of each month at the City Council chambers. Fowler New Mayor Pro Tem Mayor Michael Carpenter (right) swears in Place 1 City Council- member Jim Fowler as Mayor Pro Tem during the August 4 City Council meeting. The position of Mayor Pro Tem is rotated every six months. The Mayor Pro Tem takes over the duties of the Mayor when the Mayor is not available. Two Bond Propositions Facing Voters Schertz voters will decide the fate of two City bond propositions when they go to the polls November 3. They are: • Proposition 1: $7,000,000 in General Obligation Bonds for streets (Primarily FM 1103 and FM 1518), bridges, and side- walk improvements. • Proposition 2: $8,000,000 in General Obligation Bonds for Public Safety Facilities including a New Fire Station. 45 schertzmagazine.com SEPTEMBER 2015 Residents Attend Community Budget Meetings Schertz residents attended a Community Budget Meeting on August 5 at Sippel Elementary School on the proposed Fiscal Year 2015-16 City of Schertz Budget. The meeting format included a City Staff presentation on the proposed City Budget process and timetable for FY-2015-16 budget as well as questions, suggestions and other feedback from Schertz residents. Similar meetings were held August 6 at Corbett Junior High School and August 13 at Schertz United Methodist Church. City Charter Propositions on November 3 Ballot When they go to the polls November 3, Schertz residents will have a chance to vote on 19 City Charter propositions. Here is a summary of the propositions: 1. Proposition to Delete Items in the Charter due to redun- dancy in other Charter sections or State Law. 2. Proposition to Increase City Council from 5 to 7 Places 3. Proposition to Increase elected official terms from 2 to 3 years in length 4. Proposition to Provide for Revised Prohibitions, Forfei- tures of Office and Hearing Process 5. Proposition for Revised Financial Procedures 6. Proposition to Conduct Elections Pursuant to State Law 7. Proposition to Revise Initiative, Referendum, & Recall Procedures 8. Proposition to Provide Disannexation Procedures 9. Proposition to Clarify Signature of City Documents 10. Proposition to Modify the Process of Hiring Assistant City Managers 11. Proposition to Allow the City Manager to Identify Desig- nee to Attend Council Meetings 12. Proposition to Modify Personnel Policies 13. Proposition to Modify the Process of Hiring Deputy City Secretary 14. Proposition to Delete Planning & Zoning Commission Section of Charter 15. Proposition to Add Guidance Regarding Ordinances Passed by Petition 16. Proposition to Clarify Personal Financial Interest Policy 17. Proposition to Adjust the Size of Charter Review Com- mission 18. Proposition to Adjust the Term of Charter Review Com- mission 19. Proposition to Add a Disaster Clause for Reconstitution of the Council After an Emergency City of Schertz Sr. Budget Analyst James Walters (standing) makes a presentation to residents and others during a Com- munity Budget Meeting August. 5 Presented by the Schertz Historical Preservation Committee in the interest of historical perspective and community awareness of local historical legacies. Looking Back September Quote of Note “History is the sum total of the things that could have been avoided” Author - Konrad Adenauer Local History On September 13, 1890, Sebastian Schertz, first settler of Schertz, died leaving the operation of the cotton gin and corn shelling operations to sons Adolph and Martin. Texas History On September I I, 1842, San Antonio was captured by 1,400 Mexican troops but the Mexicans retreated with prisoners. The University of Texas opened its doors in Austin for its inaugural session on September 15, 1883. On September 8, 1900 the great hurricane destroyed much of Galveston and killed 6,000 people there. The discovery of the huge East Texas Oil Field occurred with the blow of the Daisy Bradford #3 well on September 5, 1930. City of Schertz Elected Officials Mayor: Michael Carpenter (210) 619-1045 Council Members:Jim Fowler (210) 658-1442Grumpy Azzoz (210) 488-4214Daryl John (210) 204-2750Cedric Edwards, Sr. (210) 566-4540Robin Thompson (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 September 2015 CITY CALENDARZ September SchertzFest September 18-19 October National Night Out October 6 Steve Simonson Volunteer of the Year and Boards and Commission Recognition October 15 Trunk or Treat October 31 November Hal Baldwin Scholarship Golf Tournament November 6 Veterans Day Ceremony November 11 Schertz Chamber Of Commerce Banquet November 13 Turkey Trot November 27 Be sure to check out visitschertz.com for more event info! Annual Events: Tuesday, 1 City Council, 6:00 PM City Council Chambers Thursday, 3 TSAC, 5:30 PM City Council Chambers Monday, 7 City Holiday Labor Day (City Offices Closed) Tuesday, 8 City Council, 6:00 PM City Council Chambers Wednesday, 9 Planning & Zoning, 6:00 PM City Council Chambers Tuesday, 15 City Council, 6:00 PM City Council Chambers Tuesday, 22 City Council, 6:00 PM City Council Chambers Wednesday, 23 Planning & Zoning, 6:00 PM Council Chambers Thursday, 24 EDC Board, 6:00 PM City Council Chambers Monday, 28 Parks & Recreation Advisory Board, 5:30 PM Bob Andrews Room Tuesday, 29 City Council, 6:00 PM City Council Chambers Meeting locations may change, please visit the calendar at www.schertz.com for more information. PUBLIC AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT 1400 SCHERTZ PARKWAY SCHERTZ, TEXAS 78154 16977 I-35 N, San Antonio, TX 78154 For more information call 210.572.8400 or go to BaptistEmergencyHospital.com. Hospital carewithout the commute. Experience a Hospital built with you in mind. At Baptist, we believe being prepared to treat any emergency is what you trust us to do. No matter when you come in (we’re open 24/7), you’ll get the level of care you deserve with the immediacy you need. Schertz Pkwy. Inter s t ate 3 5