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11_November 2015
BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE CITY OF SCHERTZ, TEXAS ma g a z i n e NOVEMBER 2015 - and the man he met who became famous years later. On Nov 21, 1943, the second day of the Tarawa invasion, the 20-year-old Marine rifleman and the rest of his battalion headed for the invasion beach in Higgins boats and hit a roadblock. Read the story to find out what happened and more about the man he met who was destined to be a celebrity. A hint: He was TV’s most unusual farmer. Next be on your best behavior and march into Amy Fey’s second grade class at Rose Garden Elementary in the SCUCISD. You may do a double take when you see her four-legged assistant on the floor nearby. PUBLISHED MONTHLY BYPublic Affairs Department Linda Klepper Public Affairs Director Chuck McCollough Editor Alexis Souza Graphic Design/Art Direction 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 11 31 Years and counting...! This month’s Schertz Magazine is stuffed full of stories and photos like a 20-pound turkey at the Thanksgiving Day meal. The “content” - another term for the articles and pictures - includes messages of trial and triumph, hitting high notes of success, finding a home after a long trip and the generosity of one neighbor to another. The stories and photos will help put you in a good mood as we move into the holidays and the end of 2015. As a salute to Veterans Day - start with the incredible story of Schertz veteran Bob Talbot’s harrowing and heroic experience during the invasion of Tarawa Island in WWII Editor’z Letter By Chuck McCollough, Editor That is Amy’s service dog Neo, who is almost always near his owner. Fey was born with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis in all her joints causing severe pain and making everyday tasks such as walking, bending down and picking items up with her hands extremely difficult. The story tells how the young teacher qualified for a service dog and the training both she and Neo went through to become inseparable buddies. You might want to keep a hankie nearby for this one. Speaking of SCUCISD - move on over to Corbett Junior High School and our story about certain members of the school’s music program. Kirstin Garrison, director of bands at Corbett and two of her students, Trapper Erwin (who plays trumpet) and Isaiah Aguilar (who plays French horn) all have a connection to the Youth Orchestra of San Antonio - better known as YOSA. What is the connection? You have to read the story to find out how local musical talent is being recognized and utilized by a large and prestigious forum. Also look for stories on how you can help the Randolph Area Christian Assistance Program (RACAP) help the needy at Thanksgiving and Christmas and how Schertz Animal Services is teaming with other shelters to find homes for local strays many, many miles from here. All that and more in Your Source For Hometown News - Schertz Magazine. DEPARTMENTZ TALK OF THE TOWNZ Updatez 10 Visionz / Chamber 20 CIVIC NEWZ Updatez 38 Voting Special Section 41 CALENDARZ 45 COVER Kirstin Garrison, director of bands at Corbett Junior High School, sits on a stool between her students, Trapper Erwin (with trumpet left) and Isaiah Aguilar (with French horn right). Standing at the back are Fran Badrak, SCUC director of fine arts and extracurricular programs (left) and David Knox, principal of Corbett.schertzmagazine.com FE A T U R E Z P24 P26 Corbett Jr. High’s Youth Orchestra Veteran’s Inspiring WWII Story A Service Dog in Second Grade P30 RACAP Gives Helping HandP33 Homeless Hounds Hitch RidesP35 NOVEMBER 2015 schertzmagazine.com 10 TALK TOWNZOF THE National Night Out Neighborly in Schertz National Night Out had a big turn out in Schertz on October 6. Dozens of neighborhoods participated in the community coming together event now in its 32 years. From Laura Heights, The Crossvine and Willow Grove in the south to Northcliffe, Belmont Park and Fairway Ridge in the north - and everywhere in between - folks celebrated with food, fellowship and fun. Neighbors and neighborhoods came together to embrace NNO as an anti-crime event that strengthens community ties and Public Safety. Front yards, community parks, SZ cul-de-sacs and driveways were gathering places for residents, neighbors, city leaders and Public Safety personnel to visit, share information, build personal and professional relationship from 6-8 PM. Six City of Schertz teams - including City Council members, senior staff, Police, Fire and EMS supervisors and rank and file staff - spread out to visit businesses, neighborhoods and apartments. The City teams stopped at nearly 30 locations and presented City Council proclamations honoring the NNO celebration at each stop. Classic Car & Truck Show November 8 The Mesquite Classic Open Car & Truck Show will be held Sunday, November 8, 2015 at Pickrell Park, 703 Oak St, in Schertz. Admission is free. For more information, call (210) 588- 6298 or go to facebook.com/mesquite. classic Senior Center Fall Craft Fair A Fall Craft Fair will be held Friday, November 13 from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM at the Schertz Area Senior Center, 608 Schertz Pkwy. Items will include pottery and handmade crafts and necklaces. For more information call (210) 823-6741. November Library Events SZ ADULT COMPUTER CLASSES: OPEN LAB Open Lab is a one-hour training session where we will assist you one on one with most computer related questions. This course is great for beginner and more advanced students! Space is limited and registration is required. Please feel free to bring your personal computer, smartphone, or tablet to class! These classes are held Wednesday and Thursday afternoons from 12-1 PM. This month there will not be classes the week of Thanksgiving November 25th and 26th. SEW LET IT BEE: LIBRARY QUILT BEE The library Quilt Bee meets twice a month, the 2nd Tuesday and 3rd Saturday from 12-3 PM. This group is perfect for both beginning and advanced quilters. Experienced quilters are available to assist those just getting started! Join us Tuesday November 10th and Saturday November 21st! EXPRESS YOURSELF IN A FOREIGN LANGUAGE Rocket Languages is an award- winning interactive online language learning system. Library cardholders can use this interactive website to learn conversational language at their own pace. Rocket Languages can be accessed from home and provides lifelong language learning. You can access it as streaming learning or by downloading it for easy access on all MP3 compatible devices. You can go at your own pace and study whenever you have time! Languages available: Spanish (Latin American), Arabic, French, German, Chinese (Mandarin), Hindi, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Brazilian Portuguese, English (Spanish Speakers), English (Japanese Speakers) and American Sign Language. LIVE ONLINE TUTORING NOW AVAILABLE @ YOUR LIBRARY Brainfuse HelpNow is an all-in- one suite of tutoring services designed for a wide range of academic needs! HelpNow services include expert academic tutoring and self-study tools to empower users to study at their own pace or collaborate with peers and teachers. Students access live, on- demand academic help and state-aligned skills building lessons from expert tutors from 2-11 PM every day of the week! In addition, the Adult Learning Center is the adult learners’ version of HelpNow where users can access GED prep, U.S citizenship test prep, resume assistance, Microsoft Office support, and Career Resources, which lists popular job search links. Brainfuse was brought to the Schertz Public Library courtesy of the Schertz Library Advisory Board. The Library Advisory Board manages the Read Before Bookstore. The Read Before Bookstore is ran entirely by volunteers and the proceeds directly benefit your library resources! SA ALZHEIMER’S ASSN. PRESENTATION ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE: THE HOLIDAYS AND CAREGIVING Please join us Wednesday November 4th at 6 PM for a presentation from the San Antonio Alzheimer’s Association! Holidays are a time for family togetherness and memories, but can also be a time filled with stress and sadness for the person with dementia and the caregiver. A person in the early stages of a dementia-related disease may experience a special sense of loss during the holidays because of the changes he or she is experiencing and the implications for the future. As the disease progresses, the physical changes at home, the shifts in usual routines and the increased activity and noises at this time of year can be upsetting and may lead to unusual behaviors or emotions. Caregivers may feel overwhelmed by caregiving responsibilities while continuing to maintain holiday traditions. This class will discuss the possible feelings of both the person with the disease, their caregiver, and tips for making the holidays easier. This program is funded by the GVEC Power Up Grant! Community Center: Demory Ballroom Dancing every Monday at 8:00 pm Senior Line Dancing every Tuesday at 9:00 am Sunday, November 1, 2015 Hill Country Cichlid Club Fish Auction Community Center 10am-6pm SchertzFest 2015 had everything from B to W - BBQ and Bands to Waitress Races. And that is only part of how the city celebrated its 57th birthday September 18-19. SchertzFest, established in 2008 to mark the 50th anniversary of Schertz’ incorporation as a municipality, has become a fall favorite in these parts. A variety of entertainment over the two-day event included Tejano musical groups Raulito Navaira and Jaime y Los Chamacos; John Mark, Empty- Handed Vagabonds, 3 Man Front, Fools of the Trade and 2015 Schertz Idol Rylee Krkosa. Other entertainment included a carnival and the ever popular HEB-sponsored Family Fun Zone, with a petting zoo, laser tag and human hamster ball games, Tots basketball skills and a ballet demonstration by Cibolo City Ballet. SchertzFest is hosted by the Schertz Parks & Recreation Foundation and is sponsored by Walker Partners, HEB, RBFCU, GVEC, Schertz Bank & Trust, Broadway Bank, and the City of Schertz. A BIG thank you to the many business community members and city staff who volunteered their time to make the event a success. SZ SchertzFest The Best of September OCTOBER 2015 schertzmagazine.com 14 SZ This year 84 BBQ teams (up from 76 last year) competed for a purse of over $10,000, trophies and braggin’ rights. The BBQ teams enjoyed two sunny days of smokin’ and grillin’. Teams competed in Ribs, Chicken, Brisket, Jackpot Beans and Cook’s Choice as they vied for the top prize. The 2015 Grand Champion BBQ team is Cool Hands Cookers and the Reserve Grand Champion is Good Life BBQ. Winners in categories included: 1st place Brisket - Cool Hands Cookers; 1st place Ribs - We Be Smokin; 1st place Chicken - PJ’s Smokehouse; 1st place Jack Pot Beans - Manny O’s BBQ; 1st place Cook’s Choice - Nuts 4 BBQ. “This years BBQ competition was the largest to date - teams traveled from as far away as Lubbock and Houston to compete. Our cook-off was a huge success with the help of the parks foundation members and volunteers,” said Jake Jacobs, Foundation president. “And our third annual waitress race also had its largest attendance with six teams of local eateries from the Schertz-Cibolo communities,” Jacobs added. This year’s Waitress Race featured a hilarious and intense demonstration of wait staff skill as individual members of each team carried a tray of water-filled glass containers while maneuvering through an obstacle course of hay bales, balance beams, high and low hurdles (think doing the limbo) and sitting one at a time in a row of chairs….and then back through the course. Team La Cabana finished first (for third time in a row) followed by Team Mattenga’s Pizzeria second and Team 3 Double-0 Nine Restaurant third. Other teams were Fox’s Pizza, Abel’s Diner and VFW Post 8315. Congratulations to raffle winners: Dawn F. and Rico V. To see a slideshow of BBQ Winners and more about SchertzFest 2015, go to www.visitschertz.com/schertzfest. NOVEMBER 2015 schertzmagazine.com 16 Blue Santa Kicking Off To Bring Christmas Joy Applications will be available beginning on Monday, November 9, 2015-December 4, 2015. Must live in the city of Schertz. If you are a business and are interested in placing a Blue Santa donation box at your place of business, please contact me at the number listed below. Donations are accepted at the Schertz Police Department. Donations can include cash, non-perishable foods, new toys, new clothes. Any questions, call or email Esther Mendoza at 210-619- 1213 or emendoza@schertz.com. SZ RACAP Taking Holiday Program Applications The Randolph Area Christian Assistance Program (RACAP) is now accepting applications for the Thanksgiving/ Christmas holiday assistance program. Applications will be accepted through November 4 for Thanksgiving and the Christmas program deadline is November 16. Applications will be accepted from families in need of help for the holidays because of limited or no income, who are at or below the Federal Poverty Guidelines. RACAP welcomes organizations, businesses, groups, or individuals who would like to participate by “adopting” families, or donating food or money. Anyone interested in sponsoring a family for Thanksgiving and/or Christmas should submit their sponsorship application no later than November 5, 2015. To obtain a Sponsor Application send an email to: racapholidayprog@att.net. This help is greatly needed and much appreciated. Donations may be dropped off at the RACAP office or mailed to 307 Pfeil St, Schertz TX 78154. Applicants for assistance must live in one of the following zip codes: 78108, 78109, 78132, 78148, 78154, 78247, 78233, Live Oak only, or 78266. Those in need of assistance may contact RACAP at 307 Pfeil, Schertz, Monday - Friday, 1-3 PM or call (210) 658-1613 between those times. Schertz-Cibolo Back The Blue Shows Support On Labor Day September 7, residents in the Schertz-Cibolo- Guadalupe County region showed their support for the men and women of law enforcement. It was a message of solidarity with local law enforcement be it police, marshal’s office, sheriff’s department, constable, DPS or others. And the message was - unlike some areas of the nation where law enforcement officials are jeered - they are cheered and appreciated in these parts. Hundreds of people attended the event at the back of Clemens High School and speaker after speaker reaffirmed that there is no daylight between the community and those who protect it. Homemade signs supporting officers, deputies, constables and others brought smiles to those law enforcement folks at the rally and many others in attendance. For more information, visit the Schertz Police Department Facebook page. SZ 19 schertzmagazine.com NOVEMBER 2015 Schertz Magazine All Over The Map In Virginia Larry Busch, left, and. his grandmother, Gilda Cook, took Schertz Magazine along on a trip to Demascus, Virginia to visit family and friends, including Buddy Albro (with dog). SZ In South Pacific Schertz resident Sharolyn Fredrickson took Schertz Magazine on a trip to the South Pacific Island of Rarotonga in the Cook Islands. She was traveling with Global Volunteers and workingwith students with communication disorders. In Peru Christina Hubbartt-Lara took Schertz Magazine on a trip to Macchu Pichu, Peru In Yellowstone Park Pat and Jim Fowler took Schertz Magazine along on a trip to Yellowstone Park. In Italy Liz and James Leible took Schertz Magazine along on trip to Italy NOVEMBER 2015 schertzmagazine.com 20 Schertz Chamber welcomes New Members! At the August luncheon, the chamber welcomed new members Kathy Garner, owner of Basket Case (left) and Joni Eichholtz with HEB 3 Double O Nine Restaurant (right) hYPer presents $3000 to BVYA Our young professional’s group, hYPer, presented Johnnie McDowell a check for $3000 to benefit the Buffalo Valley Youth Association. The funds were raised from this year’s Schertz Idol event. Pictured in the photo from left to right are hYPer Members: Ashley Hobbs, Karen Lizcano, Christy Lerma, BVYA representative Johnnie McDowell, Joshua Nolden, Hengum Stanfield and Anita Lafferty. Annual Member Appreciation & Awards Banquet Tickets are on sale now for our Annual Banquet. This year’s Theme is Rat Pack Vegas and attendees are invited to dress in their best Frank Sinatra/Dean Martin 1960’s Vegas attire. Ladies – think Marilyn Monroe or Ann Margaret. Food, cocktails, live entertainment and awards – it’s a night you don’t want to miss. Tickets are $25 per person. Stop by the Chamber/Visitor Center offices or call 210-619-1950 for more information Chamber Mixer November 19th will be the date of the Chamber-After Hours Mixer from 5:30 - 7:00pm at Texas State Optical at 17460 IH 35 North, Suite 412. Join us for food, fun, networking, and a chance to win Chamber CASH! *General attendance $10, Chamber Members FREE! No Chamber Luncheon for November; early luncheon in December There will not be a monthly Chamber luncheon in November but we will be accepting RSVP’s for the December luncheon, which will be early in December on the 1st. Deadline to RSVP for this luncheon is by November 24th. The Schertz Chamber and Visitor’s Center will be observing the following holidays and will be closed on: November 11th in Observance of Veteran’s Day November 26th and 27th in Observance of Thanksgiving. Schertz Chamber Monthly Calendar of Events 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. 23 schertzmagazine.com NOVEMBER 2015 Sweetheart Court Unveils “Open Hearts” The Schertz Sweetheart Court has created a new mentorship program through Corbett Junior High called ‘Open Hearts’. Meeting biweekly, the program connects girls at Corbett with information and resources on how to volunteer in the community based on career fields of their interest. Guest speakers representing various careers will be invited to speak at their meetings throughout the year and allow the girls to find out what it’s really like to be a journalist, a doctor, and anything in between. Girls involved also benefit from being a part of a strong peer group to discuss anything on their minds- from school, to home, to silliness. A major goal of the mentorship is to help in the tough transition to high school by making these strong personal connections. Miss Friendly City Sydney For more information contact Sara Elkins at selkins@scuc.txed.net Fischer led the project with Corbett teacher Sara Elkins. Other members of the Sweetheart Court are: Miss Schertz Morgan Gaitan, Miss Jubilee Regina Deason, and Miss Sunshine Ellie Kate Gorman. The Sweetheart Court and members of Open Hearts would like to thank Embroid Me, Shipley’s Donuts, and Chick-Fil-A for their vital role as community sponsors. Their contributions have helped make the program a reality. SZ NOVEMBER 2015 schertzmagazine.com 24 Schertz Veteran’s Inspiring WWII Story By Stan Leland Editor’s Note: In honor of Veterans Day this month and all veterans, Schertz Magazine is proud to present the story of Schertz resident Bob Talbot’s harrowing and heroic experi- ence during the invasion of Tarawa Island in WWII - and the man he met who became famous years later. 25 schertzmagazine.com NOVEMBER 2015 OOn Nov 21, 1943, the second day of the Tarawa invasion dur- ing WWII, 20-year-old Marine rifleman Bob Talbot and the rest of his battalion headed for the invasion beach in Higgins boats. Unfortunately, a shal- low reef prevented the boats from getting closer than 300 to 600 yards from the shoreline. The Marines would have to wade over a quarter of a mile exposed to deadly Japanese machine gun fire. When Talbot’s boat reached the reef’s edge, the order was given to go over the side. Standing in water up to his armpits, holding his M-1 over his head, he began wading toward the beach 400 yards away. Immediately he heard the snapping sound of bullets passing overhead and the zip- zip sound as they hit the water. Talbot and the rest of his bat- talion were wading ashore into a horseshoe of deadly fire. As he waded, Talbot recited the 23rd Psalm over and over. Within minutes a bullet struck the Marine in front of him in the face. As he began to sink, Talbot rushed forward and grabbed the unconscious Ma- rine. He removed the Marine’s ammo belt and pulled the belt- like life preserver under the wounded man’s armpits. Looking toward the beach he saw several hundred yards of open water laced with Japa- nese machine gun and mortar fire. Talbot started for the beach. A few minutes later another Marine was wounded near him and began to sink. He went over to him, pulling the first Marine with him. Once again he started toward the beach. He went only a short distance before a third Marine was hit near him. Following the same procedure used on the first two Marines, Talbot had the third floating with his head above the water. “I was talking to God with every step,” Talbot said. A fourth Marine was hit near him. When Talbot reached him he discovered he did not have a life belt. After remov- ing the ammo belt Talbot saw a pack floating close by and tied it to the Marine. With four Ma- rines in tow, wading became nearly impossible. Helplessness and panic was rising in Talbot. There was no way he could drag all four men to the beach. He couldn’t just stay where he was holding them up. Talbot’s response was to keep talking to God. About a mile away, Lieuten- ant Eddie Heimberger was patrolling the edge of the reef as salvage officer for damaged landing craft. His job was recovering disabled Higgins boats and towing them back to the destroyer, the U.S.S. Sheri- dan. He saw over 150 wounded men standing in the neck deep water along the reef’s edge. Heimberger decided it was more important to salvage the wounded Marines. He enlisted the help of another Higgins boat and headed to the reef. As they pulled up to the first group of Marines, the two boats began to draw mortar fire. Heimberger decided to take only one boat at a time to the reef and, without stopping, pick up the wounded Marines and pull them aboard. Talbot saw the rescue op- eration back at the reef’s edge over 100 yards away and began pulling his four casualties in that direction. Talbot reached the reef’s edge and waited. The boat passed by Talbot and one of his Marines was taken. Finally the last Marine was taken and, without a second thought, Talbot turned and headed for the beach. Bullets Talbot survived the ordeal on Tarawa and went on to fight on Saipan as well. He left the Marines after the war and later moved to Schertz. Postscript In the 1980’s, Talbot read a magazine story about the lieutenant who organized the rescue on the reef and how he had been awarded a Bronze Star. Talbot wrote Heimberger a letter describing his experiences that day and a few weeks later he got a call from him. However, by this time he was known by his TV stage name --- Eddie Albert.- -from the TV show “Green Acres.” Albert told Talbot that his ship’s snapped over him and zipped into the water. When he was waist deep he began to run and finally reached the seawall with other Marines.. “I remember explosions, stum- bling into underwater shell holes and crawling over barbed wire. All I could think of was getting to the seawall so I kept talking to God,” Talbot said. annual reunion would be held in San Antonio later in the year and invited Talbot and his wife, Beverly, to join him. The night of the banquet, Albert and Talbot recounted the events of that hor- rific day on the reef. For a few hours, they swapped stories and enjoyed the bond that is unique to fellow warriors. FEATUREZ Bob Talbot (right) visits with story writer Stan Leland. A Service Dog In Second Grade In Schertz... Really! By Kari Bridges Amy Fey and her service dog Neo go down a hallway at Rose Garden Elementary school. 27 schertzmagazine.com NOVEMBER 2015 IIn January 2013, Schertz resident and Schertz Cibolo Universal City ISD (SCUCISD) award-winning educator Amy Fey began her journey to receive a trained service dog to help her become more inde- pendent at home, work and in the community. Fey was born with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis in all her joints causing severe pain and making everyday tasks such as walking, bending down and picking items up with her hands extremely difficult. Over the years, Fey, a Clem- ens High School and Texas Lutheran University graduate, has undergone several painful operations to replace her hips and knees as well as cataract surgery in both eyes caused by severe arthritic flare ups, which resulted in her becom- ing legally blind in her left eye. After completing extensive research on service dogs, Fey began the application process to receive one through Texas Hearing and Service Dogs (THSD), now known as Service Dogs, Inc. (SDI), a nonprofit organization established in 1988 that specifically trains dogs rescued from the San Antonio Humane Society to become service dogs to assist people living with deafness or mobility related challenges. Three months later, Fey was contacted by SDI and in- formed that she had been accepted into the program. Soon after, she traveled to the SDI training center in Dripping Springs to attend Matching Day, an afternoon where she was introduced to the dog trainers to discuss her needs, expectations, concerns, etc. and met four dogs trainers believed would best meet her needs based on her applica- tion. The dog that bonds with her the most cohesively and overall fits best would become her service dog. Each SDI service dog under- goes an extensive year-long training and health program that costs approximately $20,000 to $35,000 per dog. As a SDI candidate, Fey receives the trained dog free of charge – only paying for the dog’s crate, bedding, food, toys and care once she has accepted the responsibility of owning a service dog. In addition, Fey was required to spend a week attending extensive, structured classes learning the requirements and standards set by the agency to monitor the health and safety of the dog. All aspects of having a service dog such as veterinarian appointments, emergency contact numbers, daily exercise, routine groom- ing, and how much sleep the dog needs are examples of the quality of animal care that is consistently monitored and confirmed by SDI personnel each month. Fey and the young students in her second-grade classroom at Rose Garden Elementary in Universal City all waited in excited expectation for the day when they would receive news of when she would be partnered with her service dog and learn which dog SDI had selected for her. Two-weeks later, Fey and her students received news that she would be partnered with Watson, a large lab/mastiff breed mix dog weighing almost as much as she does. She was convinced that she had bonded with Watson the most and had instantly fallen in love with his dark choco- late-colored eyes. She was de- lighted, but at the same time, a bit apprehensive because of his massive size. Fey quickly learned that Wat- son loved to chase squirrels, which caused deep concern for his safety if he ran off in public. After two wonderful months with Watson, Fey felt she would rather return him to SDI than see him get injured as a result of an accident. Though it was the hardest thing she ever had to do, she felt it was in the best interest of Watson. Several months passed before Fey, who deeply wanted a service dog, contacted SDI again. She was quickly sched- uled for her second Matching Day on May 21. This time, Fey was partnered with Neo, a one-year old male German Shepherd/Beagle mix. In August 2014, Fey and Neo began working with a SDI in-home trainer once a week to help perfect their skills. During this time, Neo would accompany Fey to school, home and eventually stores, restaurants, church, etc. Their training sessions gradually decreased to once every two weeks, then once a month and is now only once a year for recertification. “The name Neo means gift,” Fey said. “He’s changed everything -- my personality, I’m less stressed and more confident in myself. The love and bond that I have with him is like a mother for her child. You can’t help but love him, he’s so adorable.” A year later, Fey and Neo are inseparable. Having success- fully completed his training, Neo is by her side at all times to prevent an injury from a fall as well as helping with a variety of everyday tasks such as opening/closing doors, continued on page 28 FEATUREZ picking items up off the floor, opening drawers, helping her pull off a coat, or zip up zippers on garments. “Neo is an extension of myself,” Fey said. “He will know when I hurt myself, or when I am upset and feeling sick – I don’t know how he knows, but he just knows. He has changed my life. Now I am more adven- turous in going places by my- self without friends or family coming with me. People don’t stare when I’m out shopping, I would feel lost if he wasn’t with me.” While working as a service dog, Neo wears an orange vest with the SDI patch sewn on to the side. In a zippered pocket on the vest, Neo always carries his SDI service dog identifica- tion card designating Fey as his handler, his current immuni- zation record and his rabies vaccination tags. Staff and students at Rose Garden Elementary look forward to seeing Neo’s friendly face each morning and have welcomed him to the school. He has own school ID card, takes school class pictures and has his picture listed with staff members in the school yearbook. Fey works closely with the school nurse at the beginning of each school year to ensure children who are allergic to dogs will not be as- signed to her classroom. The students in Fey’s class have learned the difference between having a service dog and owning a pet, and they all feel comfortable and enjoy having him in the classroom. The children understand the reason why he is in their classroom – not to entertain them, but to help her and keep her safe. There are also certain rules they must follow such as asking the teacher before they pet him, keeping items off the floor, keeping doors closed and not feeding him – however cute he looks. “He loves the kids, but they need to remember that he’s not just a well-trained dog, he’s not a pet, he’s a service dog and has a job to do. The kids need to remember not to distract him in case I need him. His job is to help disabled people to do things that an able person would do. He makes it more accessible for me to do things,” she said. In addition to teaching, Fey enjoys bringing awareness and raising money for the SDI ser- vice dog program by speaking at various community events. For the past year, she and Neo have been making appearances at different venues in South Texas such as at San Antonio’s Missions games, Morgan’s Wonderland, The Mighty Texas Dog Walk in Austin and a variety of community organiza- tions. “The important thing is people become aware of what the SDI program is and why it is im- portant. I share with them the rules established to keep the dogs safe, how much it costs to train a dog, let them know that the dogs are here to help and explain why it’s important that a person should not fake hav- ing a service dog,” Fey said. For more information about SDI, visit www.servicedogs.org or call 512-858-1495. Service Dog in Second Grade cont’d from page 27 FEATUREZ Amy Fey and Neo at a San Antonio Missions baseball game. FullReplacementDentures* Starting at $395 Per Set Comes With WarrantyExpires in 90 Days * Not Valid With Any Other Offer, No Cash Value. 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Locations in Arkansas, Louisiana, Missouri, Oklahoma and Texas dentalservice.net Love your smile! Dentures in one day. Guaranteed 10% less. Schertz/NE San AntonioJake Duong, DMDTerry Lee, DDS6051 F.M. 3009 suite 250Schertz, TX 78154 schertzdentures.com 210-599-8700 Corbett Jr. High Hits High Note with Youth Orchestra Garrison, Two Students Share YOSA Connection By Kari Bridges 31 schertzmagazine.com NOVEMBER 2015 TThis past May, Kirstin Gar- rison, director of bands at Ray D. Corbett Junior High School, was actively exploring her ca- reer options when an opportu- nity to serve on the Youth Or- chestra of San Antonio (YOSA) board of directors opened for her at the perfect time. Garrison had recently earned her master’s degree from La- mar University in educational administration when a parent of one of her students, who serves on the board of direc- tors of YOSA, inquired if she would be interested in being recommended to serve on their board of directors. She was excited about the pos- sibility of incorporating her master’s degree and her love of music with the administra- tive aspect of YOSA. Garrison filled out the application -- making sure to include her numerous accomplishments achieved during her seven- year teaching career in the Schertz Cibolo Universal City ISD (SCUCISD) -- and met with the executive director of YOSA. After anxiously waiting for the YOSA board of directors to meet and review her applica- tion, Garrison was informed in July that she had been selected to fill one of only two open positions on the 16-mem- ber coveted YOSA board of directors. Garrison’s appoint- ment will allow her to form a school-community partner- ship between SCUCISD, YOSA and businesses/organizations in the South Texas region – a relationship that is highly encouraged and supported by the school district. “Everyone serving on the board shares the same passion for music and believes in the mission of YOSA – changing kids’ lives through music. We are all there for the same rea- son, which is to support the students and music programs,” Garrison said. Garrison is the first SCUCISD band director to serve on the YOSA board of directors. During her three-year com- mitment, with a limit of two consecutive terms, she looks forward to networking with San Antonio professionals while attending bi-monthly board meetings, serving on various committees and at- tending YOSA performances as well as fundraising events – something she and her hus- band, Bregger Garrison, have been doing for many years. “I am looking forward to this new adventure as being an advocate for the arts. My main focus is on the students who are in YOSA and who are focused on advancing their music careers. I want to make sure these students benefit from the opportunity to excel as musicians and provide them with performance expe- FEATUREZ continued on page 32 YOSA Music Director Troy Peters and young musicians. Photo Courtesy of YOSA. Garrison teaching one of her music classes at Corbett. 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. riences,” Garrison said. Music has always played a large role in Garrison’s life. She grew up in a family of musicians and educators and is a former YOSA alumni who played the trumpet for YOSA during her seventh- and eighth-grade years. For the past seven years, Garrison has been sharing her love of music with SCUCISD students, teaching a variety of bands classes at Schlather Intermediate School, Corbett Junior High School and assist- ing at both Steele and Samuel Clemens High Schools. She has been doing a remark- able job of teaching, inspiring and challenging her young musicians. It is during their class time together that she is able to instill her love of music in her students by motivating them to want to learn about their instruments and study music theory, composition, conducting and technology. Under Garrison’s direction during the 2014-2015 academic school year, four Corbett Mus- tang bands received sweep- stakes after competing at UIL Concert and Sight-Reading Contests. They competed against 20 schools in the South Texas Region 12, 3C schools. The varsity band also finished fourth in the region for its classification during the Texas Music Educators Association Honor Band Competition. “I strive to inspire my students to believe in themselves and do their absolute best every day. Honestly, it is an overwhelm- ing feeling to know that I have impacted my students’ lives in such a powerful manner through the art of music,” Gar- rison said. “So many outstanding kids come through the music program at Corbett and they continue to amaze me every year by being able to produce such a high level of musicality. I wanted students to be able to experience what UIL is all about and give them that expe- rience. Every student should be offered the same opportunities for success,” she said. Garrison’s current eighth-grade students, Trapper Erwin (trum- pet) and Isaiah Aguilar (French horn), are actively involved in the Corbett Mustang varsity band as well as YOSA. Both students earned chairs in the YOSA Symphonic Winds for the 2015-2016 season. According to YOSA’s website, the YOSA Symphonic Winds brings together top young musicians for high-level per- formances of advanced wind ensemble repertoire. Musicians from YOSA Symphonic Winds will rotate into YOSA Sym- phony to gain experience with orchestral repertoire. This is Erwin’s first year and Aguilar’s second year to participate in YOSA. The leadership skills and musicality that Erwin and Aguilar cultivate through their association with YOSA, allow them to be a positive force within the Corbett Mustang Band program. YOSA offers eight separate or- chestras for young musicians, ranging from the entry level prelude strings to the philhar- monic, which represents the very best young instrumental talent in the San Antonio area. Corbett Jr. High Hits High Note cont’d from page 31 FEATUREZ 33 schertzmagazine.com NOVEMBER 2015 IIn 1983,the Randolph Area Christian Assistance Program (RACAP) was created by a group of nine area churches as a way to coordinate, under one organization, services each congregation had been providing separately to com- munity members needing emergency assistance. This had the advantage of avoiding duplication of efforts, as well as allowing them to provide assistance to more eligible clients. Today, there are 26 churches providing financial, food, and other resources to RACAP. Jessie Fisher is the program director. She and assistant director Dorothy Stuart are the only paid staff members. They are supported by a staff of around 80 volunteers. FEATUREZ RACAP Helping Hand, Not Handout RACAP provides aid to quali- fying individuals/families who reside in one of the service area ZIP codes. For more in- formation visit racap.org. In addition to its day-to-day operations, RACAP runs three special programs annually. *In the summer, it offers a back-to-school shoe program. Eligible families receive a Payless shoe store gift card for purchasing new shoes. *For Thanksgiving and Christ- mas, the agency, with the gen- erous support of its member churches, area residents, civic and service organizations, and businesses, provides a holiday meal basket to requesting clients. These baskets con- tain all the “fixins” the family needs for a traditional holiday meal. Also, with the Christmas basket, sponsors may elect to provide appropriate gifts for the children or to assist the children in buying presents for their parents. One source of help in obtain- ing items for the food pantry is the annual National As- sociation of Letter Carriers’ food drive. Conducted on the second Saturday in May, this effort typically brings in over 70 million pounds of non-per- ishable food items nationally. These donations are given to qualifying nonprofit organiza- tions in the area where the collections were made. RACAP receives the items collected by the carriers from the Schertz and Cibolo post offices, which this year was about 4,000 pounds of food. Throughout the year, many area groups and businesses conduct food drives, charity auctions, or donate time for the benefit of RACAP. Fisher says she is awed by the won- derful and continuing help the agency receives from people and groups in the commu- nity. Another heart-warming source of donations is former clients. Often, they’ll come back to the agency and offer a donation of money or food to help others as the agency helped them. Volunteers are the backbone of RACAP. They perform a variety of duties, from greeting clients to stocking the food pantry, to preparing the food boxes to be given to families. The pantry area is organized to make operations as efficient as possible, both for receiving donations and for selecting the food items appropriate for the family being served. If you would like to volunteer, please call Jessie or Dorothy at 210- 658-1613. Eligible residents in need of emergency assistance should call or come by the RACAP of- fice during its business hours of 1:00-3:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. You’ll need to complete an application for assistance, which you can ob- tain at the office or download from the website www.racap. org. Either Jessie or Dorothy will interview the applicant to confirm eligibility and then provide the approved assis- tance. Fisher emphasized that the agency is in need of donations, financial and grocery, continu- ously throughout the year, and not just at holiday seasons. Last year, RACAP served more than 1,500 families! RACAP is a designated nonprofit organi- zation [501(c)(3)], so contribu- tions are tax deductible. M Homeless Hounds Hitch Ride to Land of Lincoln By Chuck McCollough More than two dozen home- less dogs from seven city animal shelters left Schertz September 30 for new lives with loving families 1,200 miles away in Illinois. The pooches - in various size cages and loaded into a tall, air conditioned van - were not the first group of strays sent north said Schertz Animal Ser- vices Manager Shanna Roman. “This is is our third transport to Illinois. We have been work- ing with a rescue group there called Wright Way and trans- ported 20 animals (on the first two trips) to them over the last two months. This has been an amazing relationship, because all of the animals we sent have found homes,” Roman said. “This moves us closer to be- coming no kill and helps out other shelters that don’t have the space and/or resources to get dogs adopted. The 26 dogs sent to Illinois September 30 came from shel- 35 schertzmagazine.com NOVEMBER 2015 ters in Schertz, San Antonio, Live Oak, Cibolo, Kirby, Uni- versal City and Gonzales. Roman said the Schertz Animal Adoption Center - a $1.65 million facility that open a year ago - is the hub for this area of Texas “because of our new facility and the ability to house more animals.” “We have built relation- ships with other shelters and fosters...and knowing that FEATUREZ animals will be transferred to the rescue group monthly helps shelters/fosters hold on to animals longer because they will be leaving sooner,” Roman said. Fosters are groups and indi- viduals that provide tempo- rary or foster care for home- less cat and dogs until they can be adopted. “We have built relationships with other shelters...” Schertz Animal Services Manager Shanna Roman magazine OCTOBER 2014 magazine NOVEMBER 2014 mag a z i n e APRIL 2015 NOVEMBER 2015 schertzmagazine.com 38 CIVICNEWZ YOUR EXCLUSIVE SOURCE FOR NEWS FROM THE CITY OF SCHERTZ Enrollment Time For EMS Passport To Care Program By Jason Mabbitt EMS Director Schertz EMS is taking applica- tions for its Passport to Care program, which can reduce the cost of an emergency ambu- lance transport. Passport to Care allows citi- zens to pre-plan for emergen- cies. Nobody ever plans to have an accident or a medical emergency and to have to dial 911 for an ambulance. As a result, these events are always accompanied by unplanned and often very expensive medi- cal costs. Schertz EMS now has a plan to help you avoid some of these expenses. The Passport to Care plan works like this: If you have insurance that cov- ers ambulance transportation and are transported by Schertz EMS, you will pay nothing out- of-pocket for that transport. If you do not have insurance or your insurance says the ambulance transport was not necessary, you will receive an automatic 50 percent discount off your ambulance bill, and with our average transport bill checking in at approximately $1,400, this is a potential sav- ings of $600. So, for the low, low price of $50 to $75 a year, you can now rest assured that if you or a mem- ber of your family has a medi- cal emergency, transportation to the hospital will be taken care of potentially with no cost to you. That’s right -- no co-pay, no deductible and no out-of- pocket costs (as long as your insurance deems it medically necessary). This plan is available to anyone who resides or works in the Schertz EMS service area re- gardless of your insured status, with the lone exception of Medicaid recipients. The state of Texas does not allow Med- icaid recipients to participate in an EMS membership plan because Medicaid does not come with any out-of-pocket expenses. So the plan would be unnecessary for Medicaid recipients. Cost: • $50 for an individual (in- sured) • $60 for family (insured) • $65 for individual (uninsured) • $75 for family (uninsured) Residents in the service area should expect a registration package in their mailboxes in early November. For more information, visit schertzemspassport.com or call (210) 619-1450. 39 schertzmagazine.com NOVEMBER 2015 Proclamation Salutes Fire Prevention Week P&Z Commission, Planning Department Staff Honored - Again The Texas Chapter of the American Planning Associa- tion recently awarded the City of Schertz Planning De- partment the 2015 Certificate of Achievement for Plan- ning Excellence. The award means the Schertz Planning Department meets the chapter’s five key goals for: *Increasing awareness of professional planning; *Recognizing Planning Departments that meet certain professional requirements; *Enhancing neighborhood and citizens recogni- tion of planning efforts; *Encouraging the funding of professional training for commissioners and staff; *Aiding in economic development and commu- nity image. Posing with the award are (from left) P&Z Commissioners Bert Crawford and Ernie Evans, Planner Bryce Cox, P&Z Chairman David Richmond, Senior Planner Lesa Wood, and P&Z Commissioners Michael Dahle and Richard Braud. Sewer Averaging Will Affect Residents’ 2015-2016 Bills Sewer averaging for the winter months be- gins on October 24 and continues through March 6, 2016 for cycle billing. Meter readings taken over this period determine your sewer average for the next billing year, which begins April 1. The readings will be averaged and the average will be multi- plied by $3.51. That total will be added to the base rate of $9.22 for residents with an average below 12,000 gallons. For residents with usage greater than 12,001 gallons, that portion of the average will be multiplied by $6.95 and that total will be added to the rate of $9.22 for resi- dential 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. Pictured - Schertz Fire Marshal John Perry (right) holds a City Council proc- lamation recognizing Fire Prevention Week as October 4-10. Joining Perry are Mayor Pro Tem Jim Fowler (center) and Fire Inspector Ben Boney. The presentation was made during the Sep- tember 29 City Council meeting. SFR used not only the week, but the entire month of October to promote fire safety around the city and visited a number of lo- cal schools, daycares, and other agencies. NOVEMBER 2015 schertzmagazine.com 40 City Council Ballot Information The following City Council candidates will appear on the City of Schertz election ballot for the Tuesday, November 3, 2015 Election: Place 3 Rosemary Scott Daryl John Place 4 Cedric Edwards Don E. Taylor Place 5 Robin Thompson Bert Crawford Proclamation Salutes National Night Out Pictured at the September 29 City Council Meeting, Mayor Pro Tem Jim Fowler holds a Proclamation passed by Council declaring Tuesday, October 6, 2015 as National Night Out in Schertz. Joining Fowler are members of the Schertz Police Department. They are (from left) Lt. John Correu, Lt. Mi- chael Carey, Cpl. Albert Arriaga and Chief of Police Michael Hansen. 41 schertzmagazine.com NOVEMBER 2015 Are You Ready for theNovember 3 Election? NOTICE OF GENERAL ELECTION SPECIAL SECTION To the registered voters of the City of Schertz: Notice is hereby given that the polling places listed below will be open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., November 3, 2015, for voting in the general election to elect Councilmembers for Place 3, Place 4 and for Place 5, City Charter Amendments and a bond election. Locations of Early Voting Polling Places: Early voting by personal appearance will be conducted as listed below: Applications for ballot by mail shall be mailed to: Guadalupe County Early Voting Clerk, Lisa Adams, P.O. Box 1346, Seguin, Texas 78156- 1346; Bexar County Early Voting Clerk, Jacque Callanen, 203 W. Nueva, Suite 3.61, San Antonio, Texas 78207-4045. Applications for ballots by mail must be received no later than the close of business on October 23, 2014. Guadalupe & Comal Counties’ Location, Dates & Hours of Main Early Voting Polling Location Early Voting Clerk: Lisa Adam P.O. Box 1346 Seguin, Texas 78156-1346 Presiding Judge of the Early Voting Ballot Board: Lisa Adam Monday, Oct. 19th through Friday, Oct. 23rd, 2015 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday, Oct. 26th through Friday, Oct. 30st, 2015 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 24, 2015 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 25, 2015 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Guadalupe & Comal Counties: Seguin Elections Office-215 So. Milan Street, Seguin, TX (Main Early Voting Location) Grace Memorial Church-3240 FM725-New Braunfels, TX Central Texas Technology Center-Room 118 Conference Room, 2189 FM 758, New Braunfels, TX Schertz Elections Office Annex-1101 Elbel Rd.-Schertz, TX New Berlin Community Center-8815 FM 775-New Berlin, TX Navarro ISD Central Office – 6450 N. State Highway 123 – Seguin, TX Location, Dates & Hours of Temporary Branch Early Voting Polling Locations NAVARRO ISD INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL CAFETERIA - 300 Link Road Seguin, TX Thursday, Oct. 29th, 2015 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. MARION ISD SECONDARY CAFETERIA - 503 Bulldog Lane, Marion, TX Thursday, Oct. 29th, 2015 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Friday, Oct. 30th, 2015 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. NOVEMBER 2015 schertzmagazine.com 42 SP E C I A L S E C T I O N c o n t ’ d COMAL AND GUADALUPE COUNTY’S ELECTION DAY NOVEMBER 3, 2014 POLLING PLACES Polls Open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Comal County: Precinct 202 John Paul II Catholic High School, 6720 FM 482, New Braunfels 301 Westside Community Center, 2932 So. IH 35, New Braunfels Guadalupe County: Precinct 303 Schertz Elections Office 1101 Elbel Rd., Schertz 304 Schertz United Methodist Church, 3460 Roy Richard Dr., Schertz 305 Selma City Hall, 9375 Corporate Dr., Selma 306 Crosspoint Fellowship Church, 2600 Roy Richard Drive, Schertz 401 Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 212 N. Barnett St., Marion 402 Schertz Community Center, 1400 Schertz Parkway, Schertz 403 Knights of Columbus Hall, 509 Schertz Parkway, Schertz 404 Schertz Community Center North, 3501 Morning Dr., Schertz 409 Elaine S. Schlather Intermediate School, 230 Elaine S. Schlather Parkway, Cibolo MAIN AND PERMENANT BRANCH POLLING PLACES, DATES, AND TIMES IN BEXAR COUNTY Early voting begins Monday, October 19, 2015 and ends on Friday, October 30, 2015 Early Voting Clerk: Jacquelyn F. Callanen 1103 S. Frio, Suite 100 San Antonio Texas 78207-6328 Presiding Judge of the Early Voting Ballot Board: Jacquelyn F. Callanen Location, Dates & Hours of Main Early Voting Polling Places in Bexar County Bexar County Elections Department 1103 S. Frio, Suite 100 San Antonio Texas Monday, October 19, 2015 through Friday, October 23, 2015 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Saturday, October 24, 2015 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sunday, October 25, 2015 12:00 noon to 6:00 p.m. Monday, October 26, 2015 through Wednesday, October 28, 2015 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Thursday, October 29, 2015 through Friday, October 30, 2015 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. ***Early voting will not be conducted on Saturday or Sunday or after 6:00 p.m. on weekdays at the Bexar County Justice Center. Any voter who is entitled to vote an early ballot by personal appearance may do so at the Main Early Voting Site. 43 schertzmagazine.com NOVEMBER 2015 Bexar County Justice Center*** Blossom Athletic Center 300 Dolorosa 12002 Jones Maltsberger Brookhollow Library 530 Heimer Road Castle Hills City Hall (southeast corner of Council Chambers) 209 Lemonwood Dr. Claude Black Center 2805 East Commerce Cody Library 11441 Vance Jackson Converse City Hall 405 S. Seguin Rd Copernicus Community Center 5003 Lord Rd. East Central Independent School District Admin Building 6634 New Sulphur Springs Road Encino Branch Library 2512 East Evans Rd Fair Oaks Ranch City Hall (Council Chambers) 7286 Dietz Elkhorn Great Northwest Library 9050 Wellwood Helotes City Hall 12951 Bandera Rd. Henry A. Guerra, Jr. Library 7978 W Military Drive John Igo Library 13330 Kyle Seale Parkway Johnston Library 6307 Sun Valley Drive Julia Yates Semmes Library @ Comanche Lookout Park 15060 Judson Road Las Palmas Library 515 Castroville Road Leon Valley Library 6421 Evers Rd Lion’s Field 2809 Broadway Maury Maverick, Jr. Library 8700 Mystic Park McCreless Library 1023 Ada Street Memorial Library 3222 Culebra Mission Library 3134 Roosevelt Ave. Northside Activity Center 7001 Culebra Olmos City Hall 120 El Prado W Parman Library @ Stone Oak 20735 Wilderness Oak Precinct 1 Satellite Office 3505 Pleasanton Rd. Shavano Park City Hall (Council Chambers) 900 Saddletree Ct Somerset High School 7650 South 1604 West, Somerset South Park Mall 2310 S.W. Military Tobin Library @ Oakwell 4134 Harry Wurzbach Universal City – City Hall 2150 Universal City Blvd. Windcrest Takas Park Civic Center 9310 Jim Seal Dr. Wonderland Mall Of The Americas @ Crossroads 4522 Fredericksburg Bexar County Election Day Polling Locations Polls Open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Precincts 4087, 4126, and 4127 Ray D. Corbett Junior High 12000 Ray Corbett Drive ***subject to change EARLY VOTING BY MAIL Applications for voting by mail should be mailed to be received no earlier than Friday, September 4, 2015 and no later than the close of business (4:30 p.m.) on Friday, Octo- ber 23, 2015. Applications should be mailed to: Comal and Guadalupe Counties Lisa Adam Election Administrator P. O. Box 1346 Seguin, Texas 78156-1346 Bexar County Jacquelyn F. Callanen, Election Administrator 1103 S. Frio, Suite 100 San Antonio, Texas 78207-6328 For more information go to schertz.com. NOVEMBER 2015 schertzmagazine.com 44 Bond and City Charter Propositions When they go to the polls November 3, Schertz residents will have a chance to vote on two bond propositions and 19 City Charter propositions. They are: Proposition No 1 “THE ISSUANCE OF NOT TO EXCEED $7,000,000 OF CITY OF SCHERTZ, TEXAS GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS FOR STREETS (PRIMARILY FM 1103 AND FM 1518), BRIDGES, AND SIDEWALK IMPROVEMENTS, AND THE LEVYING OF A TAX IN PAYMENT THEREOF” Proposition No 2 “THE ISSUANCE OF NOT TO EXCEED $8,000,000 OF CITY OF SCHERTZ, TEXAS GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS FOR PUB- LIC SAFETY FACILITIES, INCLUDING A NEW FIRE STATION, AND THE LEVYING OF A TAX IN PAYMENT THEREOF” Charter to provide that elec- tions are to be conducted pursuant to State law.” Charter Proposition 7 “The Amendment of the City Charter to provide that initia- tive and Referendum petitions must be signed by fifteen (15) percent of the number of voters registered to vote at the last general City election and that recall petitions must be signed by qualified voters of the City equal in number to at least twenty (20) per- cent of the number of voters registered to vote at the last general City election.” Charter Proposition 8 “The Amendment of the City Charter to provide a process for disannexation of City prop- erty as required by State law.” Charter Proposition 9 “The Amendment of the City Charter clarifying that the Mayor is the official signatory for official documents unless otherwise designated by Council.” Charter Proposition 10 The Amendment of the City Charter deleting the require- ment for City Council to ap- point Assistant City Managers. Charter Proposition 11 “The Amendment of the City Charter authorizing the City Manager or a designee to attend all City Council meet- ings.” Charter Proposition 12 “The Amendment of the City Charter revising the process for adopting operational and personnel policies. “ Charter Proposition 13 “The Amendment of the City Charter authorizing the City Secretary to hire and super- vise deputy city secretaries.” Charter Proposition 14 “The Amendment of the City Charter deleting the section requiring the creation of a planning and zoning commis- sion as repetitive of State law.” Charter Proposition 15 “The Amendment of the City Charter to provide a process for amending or repealing an ordinance adopted as a result of a petition by the voters.” Charter Proposition 16 “The Amendment of the City Charter prohibiting city offi- cials and city council mem- bers from violating the State law on conflicts of interest.” Charter Proposition 17 “The Amendment of the City Charter to require the Charter Review Commission to consist of no less than 5 and not more than 11 citizens of the City.” Charter Proposition 18 “The Amendment of the City Charter to provide the term of office of the Charter Review Commission shall be 180 days after the date of the first meeting with the first meeting to occur within forty-five (45) days of the date of appoint- ment.” Charter Proposition 19 “The Amendment of the City Charter to provide a process for reconstituting the City Council if required after a common disaster.” Fiscal Impact: There is no anticipated fiscal impact to the City from the passage of amendments 1, and 3 through 19. For Proposition 2: Fiscal Impact: The estimated average annual cost for this Charter section is ap- proximately $12,500; if approved, this amend- ment is estimated to have a fiscal impact to the City of an increase of approximately $12,500 per year. Charter Proposition 1 “The Amendment of the City Charter eliminating those pro- visions which are redundant of State Law or other sections of the Charter.” Charter Proposition 2 “The Amendment of the City Charter changing the number of Council Members from five (5) to seven (7).” Charter Proposition 3 “The Amendment of the City Charter changing the term of office of City Council members and the Mayor from two (2) years to three (3) years.” Charter Proposition 4 “The Amendment of the City Charter providing for prohibi- tions and forfeitures of office and creating a due process procedure.” Charter Proposition 5 “The Amendment of the City Charter revising the City’s financial procedures.” Charter Proposition 6 “The Amendment of the City Schertz City Council Mayor: Michael Carpenter (210) 619-1045 Council Members: Jim Fowler (210) 658-1442 Grumpy Azzoz (210) 488-4214 Daryl John (210) 204-2750 Cedric Edwards, Sr. (210) 566-4540 Robin Thompson (210) 204-8649 City Departments: City of Schertz (210) 619-1000 Animal Control (210) 619-1550 Business/Utilities (210) 619-1100 City Manager (210) 619-1000 City Secretary (210) 619-1030 Civic Center (210) 619-1600 Customer Care/311 (210) 619-1000 Economic Development (210) 619-1070 EMS (non-emergency) (210) 619-1400 Fire (non-emergency) (210) 619-1300 Human Resources (210) 619-1150 Information Technology (210) 619-1180 Inspections (210) 619-1750 Marshal Services (210) 619-1650 Municipal Court (210) 619-1500 Parks & Recreation (210) 619-1850 Planning & Zoning (210) 619-1780 Police (non-emergency) (210) 619-1200 Public Affairs (210) 619-1630 Public Library (210) 619-1700 Public Works (210) 619-1800 Records (210) 619-1030 Website schertz.com #info IMPORTANT SCHERTZ WEBSITES schertz.com visitschertz.com schertzmagazine.com Like us on Facebook November 2015 CITY November Hal Baldwin Scholarship Golf Tournament November 6 Veterans Day Ceremony November 11 Schertz Chamber Of Commerce Banquet November 13 Turkey Trot November 27 December Festival of Angels December 4 Be sure to check out visitschertz.com for more event info! Annual Events: Tuesday, 3 City Council, 6:00 PM Council Chamber Thursday, 5 TSAC, 5:30 PM City Council Chambers Tuesday, 10 City Council, 6:00 PM Council Chamber Wednesday, 11 City Holiday Veterans Day (City Offices Closed) Monday, 16 Parks & Recreation Advisory Board, 5:30 PM Bob Andrews Room Wednesday, 18 Planning & Zoning, 6:00 PM Council Chambers Thursday, 19 EDC Board, 6:00 PM Council Chambers Tuesday, 24 City Council, 6:00 PM Council Chamber Meeting locations may change, please visit the calendar at www.schertz.com for more information. CALENDARZ Presented by the Schertz Historical Preservation Committee in the interest of historical perspective and community awareness of local historical legacies. Looking Back November Quote of Note “What is the fire in your belly but the flame of a thousand ancestors?” Robert “Brault Local History On November 7, 1866, Sebastian Schertz purchased 307 acres of land along the Cibolo Creek in Guadalupe County and began building a farming and business enterprise that would spark development of Schertz, Texas. Texas History On November 23, 1835, the Texas Rang- ers organization was officially established by the Texas’ provisional government. Although Stephen F. Austin had hired 10 frontiersmen as “rangers” to help Protect his colonists against Indian raids in 1823. In November 1850, the Texas governor signed the compromise of 1850, in which Texas gave up its claim to the land that includes more than half of what is now New Mexico about a third of Colorado, a corner of Oklahoma and a small portion of Wyoming in exchange for the United States assumption of a $10 million debt. On November 30, 1869, Texas voters ap- proved a new constitution. November 22, 1963, President Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas, Texas. PUBLIC AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT 1400 SCHERTZ PARKWAY SCHERTZ, TEXAS 78154