LOCAL: Stone Oak, Encino Park, North Central, 78258, 78259, 78260, 78261 December 2014 by San Antonio Local Community News

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COMMUNITY NEWS STONE OAK

VOL. 1, ISSUE 7

ENCINO PARK

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78258 78259 78260 78261

NOV. 24 - DEC. 22, 2014

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NOV. 24 - DEC. 22, 2014

FROM THE EDITOR tedwards@salocallowdown.com

President Harold J. Lees VP/Sales Publisher Gregg Rosenfield Anna Davis Assoc. Publisher Rick Upton EDITORIAL Executive Editor Thomas Edwards News Staff Collette Orquiz, Bain Serna and Will Wright Contributing Writers Jacque Crouse, Eileen Pace, Arthur Schechter, Travis E. Poling and Susan Yerkes ART Creative Director Florence D. Edwards Production Designer Pete Morales Contributing Photographer Rudy B. Ornelas Contributing Illustrator Jeremiah Teutsch ADVERTISING Advertising Director Jaselle Luna Account Manager Amber Montemayor Controller Keith Sanders READER SERVICE Mailing Address 4204 Gardendale Ste. 201 SA, TX 78229 Phone Fax (210) 338.8842 (210) 616.9677

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Advertising Inquiries jluna@salocallowdown.com Story Ideas: tips@salocallowdown.com Website: www.salocallowdown.com LOCAL Community News publications Zone 1: 78204, 78205, 78209, 78210, 78212, 78215 Zone 2: 78213, 78230, 78231, 78248, 78249 Zone 3: 78216, 78232, 78247 Zone 4: 78109, 78148, 78233, 78239 Zone 5: 78108, 78132, 78154, 78266 For advertising, customer service or editorial, please call us at 210-338-8842 or write to us at: Local Community News 4204 Gardendale Ste. 201 San Antonio, TX 78229 Reproduction in whole or in part without our permission is prohibited, 2014 Helen Publishing, LLC and Local Community News, LLC, all rights reserved.

Keeping a proper perspective

he media doesn’t always do a good job of policing itself, instead often focusing on being first instead of being right. That’s thanks in part to the hurly-burly mentality of today’s Web-fed, 24-hour news cycle. A case in point is the changing tone of stories about the Ebola virus. When the first news accounts about Ebola in America began to emerge, news anchors, Web outlets and even some print publications made it seem like a viral apocalypse was just hours away. Then, as more health care workers faced quarantine upon returning from Africa, the tone of news stories turned scolding, castigating the government for being overly cautious. Adding insult to injury, media reports chided officials for creating a scare. In all honesty, it was the media — especially television and the Web — that manufactured the scare. Shark stories are another example. Attacks are few and far between, but media accounts play up even the smallest incident to make it seem like Jaws is rampaging. In both cases, it’s not always the government that shoulders the blame for fueling hysteria. It’s the news media. Driven by pressure to secure ratings, increase page views and shore up dwindling readership, accounts of potential threats become sensationalistic narratives that would scare the socks off anyone. Here at LOCAL Community News, we try to slow things down a bit, assess the issues, solicit informed commentary and take a reasoned approach to subjects. We don’t always get it right (who does?) and not everyone agrees with us, but our intent is to deliver news without hyperbole. So keep on reading and we’ll keep on delivering. In the meantime, from those of us at LOCAL to you and your cherished ones, happy holidays.

THOMAS EDWARDS EXECUTIVE EDITOR FACEBOOK.COM/SALOCALCOMMUNITYNEWS

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NOV. 24 - DEC. 22, 2014

LOCAL COMMENTARY

Ebola hyperbole: A plague of panic by SUSAN YERKES

s anybody else out there sick of hearing doomsday Ebola predictions?

Don’t get me wrong — Ebola is a terrible disease, and the situation in several African countries, where thousands have died, is serious indeed. Thomas Eric Duncan’s death from the disease in Dallas, and the subsequent infections (and happily, recoveries) of a couple of health care workers, have rightly spurred hospitals and medical professionals to review and revamp their protocols for diagnosis and treatment. The fact is, here in South Texas, your chances of winning the lottery are a thousand times greater than your chances of getting Ebola. And yet politicians

continue to proselytize, and plain folks continue to worry, about the medical menace the word Ebola conjures. “It’s human nature, that people are fascinated with things that are frightening. All the hospitals have developed detailed protocols and plans in the remote event that Ebola does show up. But there are much more pressing health problems in San Antonio, like diabetes and obesity,” said Carl Blond, a respected San Antonio physician and chief of staff at Connally Memorial Medical Center in Floresville. This time of year, there’s another health problem we can all do something about. “As we head into the winter months, with kids back in school and people traveling for the holidays, respiratory illnesses like influenza are a much more serious concern for us in terms of infectious disease. And many of those can be prevented by vaccinations,” said Dr. Thomas Schlenker, director of health for the San Antonio Metropolitan Health District. Unlike Ebola, flu and other airborne diseases spread quickly, even when the carriers aren’t manifesting symptoms. Older folks and the youngest are particularly at risk. The Centers for Disease Control recommends adults and children 6 months or older should get vaccinated every year. You don’t even have to go to the doctor to get a

flu shot. They’re everywhere, from Walmart to Walgreens. All insurance plans cover flu shots, and for those without insurance, the $30 or so the shot costs is a good investment in terms of potential lost time at work. Yet according to Metropolitan Health statistics, fewer than 40 percent of adults in Bexar County got their flu shots last year. I know folks who fret about terrorists with Ebola sneaking across the border, or believe we should quarantine anyone flying to the United States from Africa. Many of them have never gotten a flu shot, and many of them get —and quite possibly spread —the flu almost every year. Vaccines offer simple and highly effective protection from many diseases, from mumps and measles to hepatitis and pneumonia. But they only work if you get vaccinated. Pertussis, or whooping cough, manifests as a cough in adults, but can be deadly for infants. In the past few years the reported rates in Texas have increased more than fivefold. But very few adults ever get vaccinated for it. It’s good news that nearly 70 percent of children in Bexar County have all the required vaccinations by age 3. Unfortunately,

according to the U.S. Department of Health, at least 90 percent of children need to be vaccinated to effectively protect the population. Adults aren’t required to get vaccinations, and many don’t. Taking care of our collective health is a task that begins with individuals, and there’s more we can do. Infectious diseases may be dangerous, but there are plenty of bigger dangers. Here in San Antonio, adult diabetes is epidemic, and it’s affecting younger people at higher rates than ever. Over the last decade, city planners and health professionals have worked hard to spread the gospel of exercise and balanced nutrition, and the city’s famously high obesity rates have begun to fall. But it takes time and work to change unhealthy habits, and we still have a long way to go. So next time you read headlines about the terrors of Ebola, try not to stress. That’s enough to make you sick. Instead, think about the serious diseases closer to home, and what we can all do about them. Get vaccinations, wash your hands and practice healthy living, one day at a time. Email Yerkes at syerkes@ salocallowdown.com.

NEXT TIME YOU READ HEADLINES ABOUT THE TERRORS OF EBOLA, TRY NOT TO STRESS.

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OUR TURN Views and opinions about your community

Getting a clear picture on body cameras

he use of body cameras should be embraced by area law enforcement agencies not already equipped with the devices.

The cameras provide a clear record of what actually transpires during an encounter between law enforcement and the public. Police should welcome the cameras, since they are another tool to help clear an officer when someone files a false complaint about police conduct. Those on the other side of the camera should also know their every action is being taped. Some area departments including Alamo Heights already use the devices. Officers there have readily adapted to the cameras. Since March, 150 San Antonio Police Department officers have participated in a pilot program involving the cameras. Police Chief William McManus

has said the cameras are a sound move and plans to make recommendations to City Council in December. The cameras, which have been around for a while, took center stage in the national spotlight after a black man was shot by a white officer in Ferguson, Missouri, sparking several days of civil unrest. Most of the protest probably would have been averted if a video recording of the encounter existed. On the national level, leaders are also pushing for police departments to utilize the small cameras, which are easily clipped on the sleeves, vests or shirt seams of an officer’s uniform. The decision on whether to use body cameras should be decided by local departments working with elected representatives and citizens’ groups. While there are privacy concerns that must be addressed, we live in the age of smartphones, YouTube and security cameras, so public recordings are nothing new. Using body cameras should become just another tool for police to do their jobs. -The Local Community News editorial board includes Harry Lees, Gregg Rosenfield and Thomas Edwards.

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NOV. 24 - DEC. 22, 2014

HAPPENING LOCAL

Plan your month with our calendar of upcoming events in the community.

OUR GUIDE TO YOUR MONTH

HAPPENING KEY

FITNESS

CALLING ALL WOODCARVERS Members of the Alamo Area Woodcarvers will be on hand 1-4 p.m. at the Parman Branch Library, 20735 Wilderness Oak St., teaching techniques to carve an intermediate piece in this two-part class. Some basic woodcarving experience is necessary. Registration is required. For more, contact the library staff at 207-2703 or visit www.mysapl.org.

NOV 22 & DEC 13

ART

PARMAN CHESS CLUB Whether you’re just learning or a grand master, the Parman Pawn Stars want you. Kids and teens, from kindergartners to high school seniors, are welcome. The chess club meets every Sunday at 2 p.m. at the Parman Branch Library, 20735 Wilderness Oak St. For more, contact the library staff at 207-2703 or visit www.mysapl.org.

WEEKLY

DISCOVERY TIME Hosted by the Parman Branch Library, 20735 Wilderness Oak St., in Meeting Room A, this one-hour session starts 4:15 p.m. every Wednesday. Presented by Amy Miller and recommended for children ages 4-6, kids develop awareness of science and math concepts through stories and hands-on experiences. For more, contact the library staff at 207-2703 or visit www.mysapl.org.

WEEKLY

TALK

OUTDOOR

MUSIC

FOOD

JAVA WITH JOE Meet each Wednesday with District 9 Councilman Joe Krier at his field office, 16500 U.S. 281 North at Thousand Oaks Drive, Suite 290, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Private appointments can be scheduled during the first hour; open-door sessions are the second hour. For information, contact Constituents Chief Adam Trevino at adam.trevino@ sanantonio.gov or 207-0955.

THE NEED TO FEED Shop at H-E-B Plus, 20935 U.S. 281 North at Evans Road, 1-5 p.m. and contribute to the San Antonio Food Bank’s Holiday Turkey Round Up. Donate a frozen turkey and you can meet the Spurs Silver Dancers. All who donate will be entered into a drawing for a basketball package including a Spurs autographed jersey, four lower-level seats at a game, Spurs restaurant vouchers and parking passes. For more, visit www.safoodbank.org.

TEEN TIME Every Tuesday 6-7:30 p.m. the Parman Branch Library, 20735 Wilderness Oak St., hosts cooking, crafting, gaming, you name it, for teens ages 13-18. Have fun, chill out and make new friends. For more, call Marisa DeBow at 207-2703 or email marisa.debow@sanantonio.gov.

THANKSGIVING Students attending classes at North East Independent School District campuses get the week off for the Thanksgiving holiday.

WEEKLY

NOV 22

NOV 24-28

DECEMBER

DOG-EARED BOOKS Come to the Parman Branch Library, 20735 Wilderness Oak St.,

TIMBERWOOD PARK OWNERS ASSOCIATION The 2014 annual meeting is 7 p.m. at the Timberwood Park clubhouse, 26631 Timberline Road, and will include a vote for three board-member slots.

DEC 2

NEISD DATA MEETING From 6 to 8 p.m. in the cafeteria at Bush Middle School, 1500 Evans Road, parents of students in fifth, sixth and seventh grades can learn about recruitment for the North East Independent School District’s newest middle school magnet program — Design and Technology Academy, or DATA — at Ed White Middle School. The program opens in fall 2015. Parents with students interested in computer programming, coding and information technology should attend. For more, contact Christina MankAllen, data director, at cmanka@neisd.net.

DEC 3

HAPPENING continues on pg. 10

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Dec. 3, 10 and 17 at 3 p.m. and read to a dog. Bring your favorite animal story or choose one off the shelves. Even children who aren’t yet reading can come and narrate a story from one of the library’s wordless books. Recommended for ages 3 and up. For more, contact the library staff at 207-2703 or visit www.mysapl.org.

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HAPPENINGS continues from pg. 08 HELP PETS, FILL TUMMY From 4-9 p.m. on the first Wednesday of each month, Trilogy Pizza & Wine Bistro, 19141 Stone Oak Parkway, Suite 113, donates 15 percent of every purchase to Pets Alive. For more, visit www.sanantoniopetsalive.org.

DEC 3

RAISE CULTURAL AWARENESS FOR KIDS Visit the Parman Branch Library, 20735 Wilderness Oak St., Meeting Room A, 10:15-11 a.m. for stories, songs and crafts related to Japanese customs and history. Entertain and enrich toddlers, exposing their minds to a new language and cultural heritage. Sessions are led by Eri Suzuki of the Japan-America Society of San Antonio. For more, contact Andrew Gordon at 207-2629 or email andrew.gordon@sanantonio.gov.

DEC 5

TAMALE WORKSHOP FOR KIDS Children ages 5-13 are welcome at the Young Chef ’s Academy, 20330 Huebner Road, Suite 110, 6-8 p.m. for a tamale tutorial. They will learn how to make dough, prepare husks and create filling. Also, kids will be taught how to create Mexican hot chocolate. Cost is $35.

DEC 5

For more and to register, call 407-0140 or visit https://communityed.neisd.net. WALK WITH A DOC The first Saturday of each month, come to the parking lot at Stone Oak Hospital Medical Offices, 1139 E. Sonterra Blvd. at 9 a.m. for fun, educational and healthy exercise. Supported by the Texas Medical Association and powered by Stone Oak Women’s Center, Wellness Division, the community walk is for everyone interested in taking steps for a better lifestyle. While strolling at your own pace, have questions answered by local physicians. For more, call 6142229 or visit www.walkwithadoc.org.

DEC 6

HOLIDAY ENTERTAINMENT The 12th annual Stone Oak Winter Celebration will take place 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the North Central Baptist Hospital parking lot, 520 Madison Oak Drive. It’s a no-cost, fun and friendly community event for all with the Spurs Coyote, a parade, food, vendors, snow, raffles, free health screenings and more. As part of “Living Through Giving,” bring a toy donation for a photo opportunity with Santa Claus, who will

DEC 6

HAPPENING continues on pg. 11

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SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM HAPPENING continues from pg. 10 descend from a helicopter. For more, call Jennifer Meachum at 297-4910. SCHOOL BOARD MEETING Trustees of the North East Independent School District meet 6:30 p.m. on the second Monday of each month at 8961 Tesoro Drive. To confirm dates and times, call 407-0533.

DEC 8

GET YOUR TAMALADA ON Come to a tamale-making party at Young Chef ’s Academy, 20330 Huebner Road, Suite 110, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Learn to make this specialty with chef Mary Carmen del Rio. The Mexico City native will teach how to make tamales not typically found in San Antonio. Cost is $55. For more and to register, call 407-0140 or visit https://communityed.neisd.net.

DEC 9

EP GAME DAYS Come to the Encino Park Community Center, 1923 Encino Rio, to relax a little and play some games and cards with friends. The fun starts at 1:30 p.m.

DEC 12

DEC 13

THE NUTCRACKER BALLET The pre-professional dance company of Quenedit Dance

Theatre will perform the holiday classic 7 p.m. at the Lila Cockrell Theater, 200 E. Market St. Young dancers from San Antonio will be featured in the production with a special appearance by students of Escuela Superior de Musica y Danza, Monterrey, Mexico. Tickets are available at Ticketmaster. com or the Alamodome box office. Quenedit Ballet School is located at The Village at Stone Oak, 22610 U.S. 281 North; the dance theater is its nonprofit dance company. SINGLES MIXER Companionship and dinner are on the menu at 7 p.m. every third Tuesday of the month at Cornerstone Church’s Life Center, 18755 Stone Oak Parkway. The evolving ministry, Singles with Purpose, is a get-together for adults ages 35-50. Cost is $3. For more, call 490-1600 or visit www. sacornerstone.org/singles/dinner/fellowship.

DEC 16

DISTRICT 26-6A HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS BASKETBALL While Johnson and Reagan tipped off the 2014-15 campaigns earlier in November, divisional play commences for the Jaguars and Rattlers as part of a tripleheader at the Blossom Athletic Center

DEC 19

HAPPENING continues on pg. 12

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NOV. 24 - DEC. 22, 2014

HAPPENING continues from pg. 11

LOCAL LOWDOWN

Littleton Gym, 12002 Jones Maltsberger Road. Johnson hosts Churchill at 8 p.m., preceded by Reagan visiting Lee at 6:30 p.m. For a complete schedule of this season’s North East Independent School District’s girls and boys games, visit http:// www.neisd.net/athletics/winter-sports/ documents/2014-15VarsityBB.pdf.

Take a quick look at what’s new in the community from opening and closings to news tidbits.

A LITTLE LIGHT RUNNING The JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa, 23808 Resort Parkway, is the site of an unusual running event beginning at 5:30 p.m. The second annual Illuminations Half/Relay and St. Nick at Night 5K run is San Antonio’s original nighttime half marathon and relay with its one-of-a-kind illuminated golf-cart-path course and indoor finish. Cost varies. For more information and to register, visit www.athleteguild.com.

DEC 20

WINTER HOLIDAYS The campuses DEC 22 of the North East Independent - JAN 2 School District are closed for the Christmas break and New Year’s Day.

SUBMITTING EVENTS: Email all

the details along with your contact information two months in advance to tips@salocallowdown.com.

4. LI’S RESTAURANT & SUSHI BAR, 20330

Open and Opening Soon

Address of local business Name of local business

1. TRADER JOE’S, 403 N. Loop 1604 West,

is the anchor store at the new Sonterra Village shopping center. Opened in midOctober, the 12,500-square-foot location is the second in San Antonio. The retail grocery outlet featuring select food items started in the 1950s as convenience stores before going upscale, adding cedar planks and putting employees in Hawaiian shirts. Joe’s now trades in 38 states and the District of Columbia. Hours are 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. For more, call 545-3123 or visit www. traderjoes.com/. (See story on page 27)

2. HAPPY AT HOME PET SITTING SERVICE, located on the North Side,

provides professional in-house care for pets while their owners are away, allowing masters to travel yet remain confident their beloved animals are safe, healthy and content. Hours are 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily. For more, call 378-2559 or visit http://www. happyathome-sa.com/. (See story on page 26)

Huebner Road at Stone Oak Parkway, Suite 106, recently debuted in the Stone Oak Creek shopping center. The sushi bar serves sushi, sashimi and custom-made sushi rolls. Hours are 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, closed Monday. For more, call 499-0070 or visit www.LiRestaurant.com and https://facebook.com/ li-restaurantsushibar. (See story on page 29)

IN OTHER NEWS

3. THE HOPPY MONK, 1010 N. Loop 1604 East, a new craft-brew establishment from El Paso, has just opened at this location. Featuring food and brews, the site also sports a beer garden. Hours are 3 p.m. to 2 a.m. Monday through Thursday and 11-2 a.m. Friday through Sunday. For more, call (915) 307-3263 or visit www. thehoppymonk.com. (See story on page 28)

THE CITY COUNCIL HAS APPROVED NAMING A TRAIL AT PANTHER SPRINGS PARK after Wyatt McDaniel, a 7-yearold Wilderness Oak Elementary School student who died in a tragic outdoor accident in January 2013. “The trail appropriately connects the Parman (Branch) Library to the Wilderness Oak Elementary School where Wyatt was an honor student with perfect attendance,” said District 9 Councilman Joe Krier. “We anticipate a naming ceremony in conjunction with the Panther Springs ribbon cutting in February of 2015.” JAMES DOUGHTY, A FORMER BROADCAST JOURNALIST, HAS BEEN NAMED COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER for District

LOWDOWN continues on pg. 13

Franklin Park Stone Oak at 281 & TPC “Our mom is in a safe, clean environment, where she is encour aged to be a part of the community.” “Staff seems to genuinely care about the residents.” “The staff is wonderful with my mother… Caring, yet lets her be as independent as she wants.” “All Inclusive”, “Genuinely care”, “Friendly Staff”

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SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM LOWDOWN continues from pg. 12 9 Councilman Joe Krier. “James Doughty came to us highly recommended, and after several interviews, we determined he was an outstanding match for our office,” Krier said. Doughty most recently worked in television news using his mother’s maiden name Munoz. Born in Midland, he graduated from Texas Tech University in 1997 with a bachelor’s degree in broadcast journalism. He worked in television news for more than 16 years. Doughty and his wife Angela are members of Churchill Baptist Church. Their two children attend class in the North East Independent School District. FORMER COACH AND LONGTIME ADMINISTRATOR Jerry Comalander was honored for 42 years of service to the North East Independent School District during halftime of the Oct. 17 Churchill-Reagan football game. Comalander, who coached the Chargers to the 1976 Class 5A state football championship and later served as the district’s athletic director, announced he is retiring in January after 54 years in athletics and education. In the stadium that bears his name, Comalander accepted a plaque from NEISD Superintendent Brian G. Gottardy, who was joined by board

members Letti Bresnahan, Brigitte Perkins and Edd White, and district administrators Donna Newman and Ron Clary. Comalander’s wife Mary and other family members also attended. BANDS FROM JOHNSON AND REAGAN placed third and fifth, respectively, for 6A high schools in the recent University Interscholastic League State Marching Band Competition at the Alamodome. The Nov. 4 contest started with 37 musical groups in preliminaries, with judges ranking the schools after the final round. THE REAGAN GARDEN PROJECT GOT A VISIT RECENTLY FROM San Antonio Rampage hockey players Alex Petrovic and Quinton Howden. The players helped students beautify the garden by planting, watering and creating a scarecrow to discourage birds from landing. The Reagan students are semifinalists in the Spurs Silver & Black Give Back Team Up Challenge. They earned $2,500 to get their service project started. They are competing against 19 other schools to earn $20,000 for the garden.

LOWDOWN continues on pg. 14

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LOWDOWN continues from pg. 13 LINDA FLEETWOOD, DIRECTOR FOR VISUAL ART in the North East Independent School District, was recently named the Texas Art Education Association’s 2014 Texas Art Educator of the Year. The award honors those who have significantly contributed to the association and to art education on the local and national levels. “It hasn’t all totally soaked in yet, but it is definitely exciting,” said Fleetwood, who has spent 23 years as a visual-arts educator. “To be recognized by your peers and friends is very rewarding.” TAEA’s mission is to promote quality visual-arts education in the state by including it as an integral part of academic curriculum. Fleetwood was scheduled to accept the honor during the TAEA’s annual conference in November at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center. NORTH EAST INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT HIGH SCHOOLS UNITED recently to benefit thousands in need. Churchill, Johnson, Lee, Reagan and Roosevelt high schools took part in the Sept. 25-28 TexasMobilePack citywide service project by packing meals feeding thousands of starving children worldwide. More than 400 volunteers from the schools

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n Pick up all children off the ground immediately. n Do not approach. n Stay calm. Talk calmly and move slowly. n Face the mountain lion and remain upright. n Do not turn your back on the mountain lion. Back away slowly. n Do not run. n Do all you can to enlarge your image. Do not crouch down or try to hide. n If the mountain lion is aggressive, throw rocks, sticks or anything you can get your hands on. n If the mountain lion attacks, fight back. Fighting back can drive off mountain lions.

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ildlife experts are putting concerned Stone Oak residents’ minds at ease after two recently reported sightings of a mountain lion raised alarms across the community.

According to officials, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s Urban Wildlife Office in San Antonio has not confirmed there was a mountain lion in the area. An urban biologist from the department has since met with neighbors, dispelling fears a killer cat is stalking the greenbelt. “She made sure that people understood that if it really was a mountain lion, that (it) would be more afraid of us than we are of (it),” said Meg Lorente, property manager for the Stone Oak Property Owners Association. “Most likely what was seen was a smaller type of cat.”

SOURCE: TEXAS PARKS AND WILDLIFE

The first sighting was reported to KSAT-TV at Stone Oak Park on Oct. 4, then another was turned in to North East Independent School District police the morning of Oct. 7 by a woman walking on a trail near Canyon Ridge Elementary School and Bush Middle School. No direct, firsthand accounts were made to biologists at Parks and Wildlife, officials said. “All of the calls we have received at our office have been secondhand reports,” said Jessica Alderson, one of those urban biologists. “We have not spoken to anyone that has actually seen the animal. No unusual

behaviors of this animal have been reported. All of the secondhand reports have been about sightings from a distance along a trail or within a natural area and the animal quickly disappeared into the brush.” Big cat or not, it didn’t behave abnormally and likely was moving along a wildlife corridor, Alderson added. “Even if it was a mountain lion, a bobcat or a coyote, all the behavior reportings we received were of the animal behaving normally,” said the urban biologist. “It wasn’t in the middle of a neighborhood or any of those types of things. It was all in the natural areas. Probably just an animal passing through.” It is unlikely a mountain lion would be in an urban setting, she added, as the big cats are very secretive and have a natural fear of humans. They generally are found in remote mountains, canyon lands or hilly areas with good cover, Alderson said. Claims of sightings led some locals to send pictures of paw prints and scat, or animal droppings, to Parks and Wildlife experts, who examined the photos and concluded the images showed evidence of a canine, such as a dog or a coyote. Two other cellphone photos disseminated via social media were not of a mountain lion, but a much smaller bobcat. Another photograph depicting a

mountain lion atop a deer was actually shot in California, not Stone Oak, Alderson said. The Stone Oak POA fielded numerous calls after the second sighting received widespread attention and socialmedia buzz, according to Lorente. “When all that sort of came to a head we got in touch with the Texas Parks and Wildlife,” Lorente said. “We had a neighborhood representative meeting and Jessica Alderson actually came to that meeting and really put peoples’ nerves to rest.” Lorente stressed the importance of contacting Parks and Wildlife when residents spot what they believe to be a mountain lion. Firsthand accounts are needed to conduct a thorough investigation of a sighting, officials said. According to Alderson, mountain lions are solitary animals except during breeding, which can occur at any time. The home range of male mountain lions varies from 80 to 200 square miles and usually overlaps the territory of several females that normally trek 20 to 100 square miles. Mountain lions, active in mornings, evenings and overnights, typically prey on deer, but also wild hogs, rabbits, javelinas and rodents. Since 1980, there have only been four documented attacks on humans by mountain lions, state officials said.

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SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM GREYSTONE continues from pg. 01

Meeting at library very productive, District 9's Krier said by BAIN SERNA

esidents in Greystone Country Estates responding to a survey by the city indicated their major concerns in the upscale subdivision revolve around traffic issues — including speeders — and a desire for traffic signals and more police patrols.

City officials mailed 113 surveys in August and received 28 responses, or about 25 percent. District 9 Councilman Joe Krier met with neighbors Oct. 6 at the Parman Branch Library to discuss the results. “I appreciate so many Greystone residents showing up this month to visit with me,” said Krier after the meeting. “My office will continue to work with the residents of District 9 to address concerns and issues raised in this survey.” Though no one from Greystone was

available to discuss the survey results, Krier’s office released a summary. Speeding was rated the highest level of “very concerned” and traffic signals also cited as the second highest concern of the survey responders. The survey reviewed residents’ feelings about the overall atmosphere of Greystone. Eighty-six percent said that it is well kept and 14 percent said there are improvements needed, such as more sidewalks. Neighborhood concerns regarding schools, landscaping, street lighting, crime, traffic signals and speeding were rated at various levels. Respondents said more traffic lights are needed to slow down speeders on Blanco Road, as well as a light at the entrance/exit of the subdivision. Other responses regarding traffic issues included: n The need for a second entrance into Greystone. n People driving too fast past the Greystone entrance because speeding down Blanco creates a hazard when exiting the subdivision. n The difficulty of making a right turn from Greystone Ridge onto Blanco in the morning. n Reducing speeds between Wilderness

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on plastic bags had 68 percent against, 27 percent for and 5 percent indifferent. Some responses from the survey said that banning them was unnecessary due to existing recycling programs. The City Council is mulling an ordinance to ban plastic shopping bags at retail outlets. Krier said the meeting at the library was productive and allowed concerns and developments to be aired in public. “I encourage all residents to dial 311 with their immediate needs and to contact the nonemergency phone number to the San Antonio Police Department for traffic issues,” Krier said. “Together we can make a difference and improve the quality of life in our neighborhood.”

MY OFFICE WILL CONTINUE TO WORK WITH THE RESIDENTS OF DISTRICT 9 TO ADDRESS CONCERNS AND ISSUES RAISED IN THIS SURVEY.” JOE KRIER, DISTRICT 9 COUNCILMAN

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SCIENTISTA continues from pg. 01

Group meets every third Wednesday by COLETTE ORQUIZ

new club at David Lee “Tex” Hill Middle School aims to foster future female scientists by giving young girls a chance to develop an interest in science and technology right now.

The Scientista Club is designed to increase participation in science, technology, engineering and math studies — or STEM — among females, traditionally underrepresented in some of those vocations. “I want to curate a club that supports girls who want to pursue STEM careers — science, technology, engineering and mathematics,” said club sponsor Misty Mallonee, who teaches seventh- and eighth-grade science at the school. A lack of women-scientist role models served as the impetus for creating the club, she said. “Typically kids are enthusiastic about

‘Tex’ Hill Middle School teacher Misty Mallonee (center), the founder of the Scientista Club for girls, and members Kariely Rivera (left) and Alex Perez Mendez (right) assemble a kit to investigate speed, acceleration and Newton's Laws. Photo by Collette Orquiz

science until seventh grade, and then their enthusiasm goes to die,” said Mallonee, who has been teaching 14 years. The nascent club has the support of school administrators, who see it as another way to encourage young girls to pursue tomorrow’s most challenging careers. “The Scientista Club offers our female

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students an opportunity to learn more about science in a nonthreatening way,” said Principal Rudy Jimenez. “Traditionally, science has been a male-dominated field. That trend has been changing, and having an opportunity like this will continue to encourage females to study and learn more about what they are interested in.”

Hill — located at 21314 Bulverde Road — opened this August, and it’s important to begin building traditions to create better students, the principal added. The Scientista Club also reflects a new focus in Texas’ public schools, with greater emphasis on science and technology studies. “It is important for all students, especially in a new school, to get connected with others sharing similar interests,” Jimenez said. “Furthermore, our school is the only middle school in the North East Independent School District to offer a health-science technology class that explores different occupations in the health field. We hope to build more interest into this exciting class and the Scientista Club will naturally provide more insight about this class.” Intending to practice medicine, Mallonee started college majoring in biology, but determined her real passion was teaching. Now she wants to share her knowledge and groom the next Madame Curie among the female students. The group met for the first time Oct. 15 with about 15 pupils, Mallonee said. Since then, more girls have expressed interest in attending. The educator hopes the club

SCIENTISTA continues on pg. 19

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SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM SCIENTISTA continues from pg. 18 becomes student-led, especially since she’s a full-time teacher and mother who also takes graduate courses. “I can only do so much, and I’m totally there to support, but I would like them to take charge,” she said. For now, the club assembles the third Wednesday of the month at 3:30 p.m. in room F208, with the second and third meetings Nov. 19 and Dec. 17, respectively. Mallonee said gathering once a month is sufficient, as she understands students have other extracurriculars such as athletics. One of Mallonee’s eighthgraders, Kariely Rivera, recently joined the club. She is interested in engineering and loves science. “I think it’s nice that we have a club teaching girls stuff like that just because of the lack of interest in STEM,” Kariely said. “I really feel that it’s nice that she brought up this whole Scientista thing because teachers don’t usually do that.’” Kariely also said Mallonee is helping them with future job prospects by creating the club. Alex Perez Mendez, another eighthgrader who attended the first meeting, said Scientista Club would help her make better choices about career options.

“I joined because I want to be in a group of people that care as much as I care and want to be there. They’re not forced to be there,” Alex said. A lot of changes happen in middle school, according to Mallonee, citing when young teens start to notice the opposite sex and become more involved in peer socialization. “Seventh grade is where they will shift. Like it’s no longer socially acceptable for them to be smart, so they will trade one for the other when it really should be: You’re socially skilled, but you’re smart,” Mallonee said. She also added students, especially girls, should be encouraged to stretch their mental abilities. Mallonee wants to take the girls to competitions, attend seminars and symposiums, go on field trips and hold workshops. “I see it starting small and growing, like this year and the next few years. It’s going to make all these boys jealous,” Mallonee quipped. Meetings will resume in January after the holiday break. For more on the Scientista Club and how to get involved, or if you’re a female scientist willing to speak to the students, email Mallonee at mmallo@neisd.net.

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BATS continues from pg. 01

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The cave in southwest Comal County is home to 15 million to 20 million bats eight months each year, as well as some federally protected endangered species, and it sits atop the Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone — two reasons the area should be left undisturbed, conservationists said. Now it seems like the habitat’s safety is assured. On Oct. 16, the San Antonio City Council approved a $20.5 million deal – brokered by District 8 Councilman Ron Nirenberg – to purchase 1,521 acres surrounding the bat cave, protecting the area and part of the aquifer from future development.

Move heralded by city officials, conservationists by EILEEN PACE

hough the Bracken Cave Preserve has sheltered bats for 10,000 years, a recent threat to their habitat may have been averted thanks to a deal that halts development in the area, officials said.

BATS continues on pg. 21

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21 BATS continues from pg. 20 Backed by contributions from the city of San Antonio, Bexar County, the Edwards Aquifer Authority, the Army and private donors, the Austinbased Nature Conservancy and Bat Conservation International agreed to purchase the area, known as Crescent Hills, from Galo Properties. Laura Huffman, Nature Conservancy’s executive director, called the deal a “5,000-acre conservation trifecta,” one that also promises to protect Cibolo Bluffs preserve, habitat for the endangered golden-cheeked warbler, and the environmentally sensitive aquifer. The large-mouthed Bracken Bat Cave is the preferred maternity ward for millions of Mexican free-tailed bats returning from Mexico each spring. The bats circle out of the cave each night and fly south toward the state’s agricultural fields for dinner. By morning, they have consumed 100 tons of insects that feed on cotton and corn and other revenue-producing crops, along with millions of South Texas mosquitoes. Conservationists became concerned last year after learning about Galo Properties’ planned residential development, where 3,500 homes would be constructed on acreage adjacent to the bat cave. There were worries that so many houses on small lots would create too much impervious cover, which doesn’t allow moisture to seep back into the soil. “Streetlights, swimming pools and porch lights will attract the bats to make even more use of the property than they do now because they’re going to be attracted to all the insects those lights bring,” said Andy Walker, Bat Conservation International executive director. Not only that, others believed runoff from the development would affect water quality, and worse – that thousands of sewer connections might result in sewage spills into the aquifer recharge zone. Susan Hughes, a member of the EAA board, was one of more than 30 opponents of the development who appeared at a council meeting in May 2013. There, she asked council members, “Who of you have been to the Bracken Bat Cave?” No one on the council answered. Hughes responded, “Well, I would propose that it’s time for you to take a field trip.” That exchange came just before Nirenberg was elected to the District 8 council seat, and he became the first to accept Hughes’ challenge. “When I came out to the Bracken Bat Cave for the very first time, it was a spiritual experience,” Nirenberg said. “This is the glory of the Texas Hill Country, and if you’re not moved to action to keep this resource as part of the Texas Hill

BATS continues on pg. 22

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BATS continues from pg. 21 Country – and for our enjoyment and the enjoyment of future generations – then you probably should check your pulse.” For the next year, Nirenberg initiated activity behind the scenes that brought together community members, organizations and foundations to find the funding to purchase the property. After council members voted unanimously to contribute dollars from the city’s Aquifer Protection Fund to help with the purchase price, Nirenberg heralded the final deal, crediting state and local leaders for their cooperation and contributions. “Putting this deal together was no small task,” Nirenberg said. “We worked for more than a year in what sometimes felt like a hopeless situation, but it was the best way to achieve success. “This was an interagency, public-private partnership that I believe will serve as a model for other communities going forward.” The sale closed late in late October. Nirenberg said the 5,000-acre conservation easement created by the multi-agency agreement will one day become a nature area for the public to enjoy. Councilman Mike Gallagher, whose San Antonio council District 10 is nearest to the new preserve, said Comal County would continue to

The bats from the Bracken Cave can eat up to 100 tons of insects each night. Photo courtesy of Jacqueline Ferrato/Nature Conservancy of Texas

receive property taxes after the sale. Fran Hutchins of Bat Conservation International recently offered a visitor a tour of the site, stopping about 50 yards from the cave entrance. As though hearing an alarm clock, the bats began sending out scouts at 7:30 p.m. Then, slowly, they amassed in a giant spiral, first inside the cave and, in a few minutes, they began to lift out of the cave and fly to the south. It took four hours for all the bats to make their way out. The nightly show impressed District 9 Councilman Joe Krier, who visited the Bracken Cave in September. “If you believe in an omnipresent and ever-loving God – which I do – and you go to that bat cave, your faith is reaffirmed,” Krier said. “It is an absolutely magical experience.”

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Rules also help keep out bandit signs by BAIN SERNA

o ensure the design standards of Stone Oak stay in harmony, neighborhood officials are reminding owners of new and established commercial properties about rules for the exteriors of those buildings. The intent is to maintain a look of beauty and consistency for the commercial and business community using guidelines established during Stone Oak’s founding in the 1980s. “It helps to keep harmony throughout, so that you don’t have anything radically different next to each other,” said Meg Lorente, Stone Oak property manager. “It’s mostly just to keep the community beautiful and to keep the standards the same for everyone.” Noncompliance with the rules is very rare, and there are no reports of court cases, officials said. “I always try to discuss any violations with the property owner first, and hopefully bring it to a resolution,” Lorente said. “Most times tenants are not aware of the sign restrictions. If the situation cannot be resolved through discussion, then I am obligated to send a violation letter giving the property owner a certain amount of time to correct the issue. After the deadline, if the issue has not been resolved, fining can ensue.”

An oversight panel aiding the association, the Architectural Review Committee, meets on the first and third Tuesday of the month to review applications for business construction and exterior changes. Façade parameters of commercial structures including architectural aesthetics, signage, exterior paint, banners, lighting and the like have been enforced since Stone Oak was created. “When the developers first got together and decided to make Stone Oak a master-plan community, that was put in place,” Lorente said. “On our POA website you can actually see when it was all put in place. All the developers came together and decided that they wanted the community to be that way.” The website “tells you that anything on the exterior of the building has to come through the Architectural Review Committee for approval before it can be set up. That was actually written into the master plan when the master plan was first created,” she added. According to Lorente, the ARC approval policy for facades of commercial buildings maintains uniformity, building aesthetics and beautification standards in construction and signage. One example is the McDonald’s restaurant located at Stone Oak Parkway and Hardy Oak Boulevard, which has an exterior different from most of the eateries in the chain. With a stone and stucco exterior, it matches the look of other neighborhood businesses. Business owners wishing to repaint the outside of their buildings also must

FACADES continues on pg. 24

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FACADES continues from pg. 23 seek ARC approval. Minor or small refurbishments using the same shade do not require an OK. “If it’s just a same color touch-up type of thing, then they don’t need to submit that,” Lorente said. “If they were doing something like an overall beige to dark brown, then that would have to be submitted. Some kind of change in color that is really noticeable, then they would have to submit for that.” N. LOOP Owners wanting to erect new 1604 lighting structures or a business placard need to get those changes approved by the ARC. “The sign policy is very distinct,” Lorente said. “It also helps so that you don’t see banners or what we refer to (as) ‘bandit signs’ all over Stone Oak.” The city recently announced the successful prosecution of one company accused of tacking up bandit signs, which are illegally posted fliers or notices attached to utility poles and at intersections, without a city permit. The business was assessed a $200 fine, according to officials. Municipal crews and volunteers y w thousands of such signs k remove P e rd year across San Antonio. eeach

Both established businesses and those under construction in Stone Oak are subject to a set of design guidelines that date back to the master-planned community's founding in the 1980s. Photos by Rudy B. Ornelas

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Professional pet-sitter’s business expands to the far North Side by COLETTE ORQUIZ

ets have always been important members of the family to Andi Ramsey, and when she realized she could care for animals 365 days a year, she left her corporate job. In 2004, Ramsey created Happy at Home Pet Sitting Service, a professional pet-sitting business that provides care for animals while their owners are out. “I am insured and bonded and pets are my passion. I take entering into someone’s house very seriously and guard my client’s information carefully,” Ramsey said. Ramsey recently added Stone Oak and other far North Side neighborhoods to the list of areas where she provides

service, which include North Central, Alamo Heights, Shavano Park, Terrell Hills, Monte Vista, Hollywood Park, Timberwood Park and downtown lofts. Happy at Home Pet Sitting offers dog walks, playtime and potty breaks, as well as administering medication, changing litter boxes and making sure clients’ homes look lived in. Ramsey picks up the newspaper and mail, and waters outside and indoor plants. A daytime visit is $18 and overnights are $50 per evening. The pet lover is also trained in pet first aid and resuscitated an Italian greyhound last year. Ramsey said that constantly being surrounded by animals is a dream come true. “I play with and care for animals all day and then return them to their loving owners,” Ramsey said. “It’s hard

Andi Ramsey of Happy at Home Pet Sitting Service poses with her beloved dogs Scout (left) and the late Dixie (right). Courtesy photo

work and oftentimes exhausting, but I wouldn’t trade it for the world.” In addition to the animals she cares for, Ramsey has a pet family of her own that includes four fish, three cats and dog. Ramsey was spotlighted on a KABB-TV news “Street Corner” segment for creating a bucket list for her dog, Dixie, who had terminal bladder cancer. She took Dixie out to enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride downtown, a chef-prepared meal and more.

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ffordable prices, wholesome products and an intimate shopping experience make Trader Joe’s a great place to visit, browse and buy, said Jorge Macias, the general manager — or captain in Joe’s parlance — of the chain’s newest store in San Antonio. Trader Joe’s debuted Oct. 15 in the Sonterra Village shopping center at 403 N. Loop 1604 West. Macias moved to San Antonio two years ago to start the city’s first Trader Joe’s in the Quarry Village at 350 E. Basse Road. “I’m really excited to get the opportunity to open this store in this community (North Side),” Macias said.

Nearly 90 percent of the food, wine and beer sold at Trader Joe’s is the company’s own brand. The label stays away from artificial flavors and preservatives, synthetic colors, monosodium glutamate, genetically modified ingredients and partially hydrogenated oils or artificial trans-fats, company officials said. “The private label allows us to control the quality ... and bring the customer a great value, where quality and price intersect,” Macias said. Coupons and discounts don’t exist at Trader Joe’s because all the products, from

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shelves to freezers, are always sold at a low price, according to Macias. Food selections run the gamut from imported to ethnic varieties, he added. “We like to think of ourselves as the traders of the culinary seas and bring in a variety of new items for customers to try,” Macias said. In keeping with the nautical theme, other employees are called merchants and mates. The store’s founder, Joe Coulombe, created the concept after a trip to the Caribbean in the

About 90 percent of the food and beverages at Trader Joe’s is the company’s own brand, making it easy for customers to enjoy low prices every day on items without artificial flavors, preservatives and more, the general manager said. Photos by Collette Orquiz

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Craft brews are the gospel at new Hoppy Monk

The North Side Hoppy Monk offers the craft brews and food that made the watering hole popular in El Paso. Photos by Collette Orquiz

by EILEEN PACE

The quirkily-named pub, beer garden and restaurant is scheduled in November to open its second location at 1010 N. Loop 1604 East. The first is in El Paso. “We felt we could not have chosen a better city than San Antonio,” said general manager Pedro Longoria. When the recession hit West Texas, Pedro’s brother, Beto, and their friend, Joseph Valenzuela, were laid off and began thinking about starting their own business. The trio settled on craft beer and four years ago opened The Hoppy Monk, which became popular for its burgers, suds and buds.

“We think having good food, good beer and good people together, that’s a good formula,” the general manager said. The San Antonio pub, just west of U.S. 281 at the southwest corner of 1604, will feature the same amenities, but is also environmentally friendly, generating its own power through a solar-panel array. “We chose the location at Highway 281 and 1604 because it’s a high-traffic area with lots of craft-beer lovers and people who love a good meal,” Longoria said. Hoppy Monk plans 100 beers on tap and in bottles, including Deschutes Beer from Oregon, Denver’s Great Divide and Stone from Escondido, California. “These breweries are privately owned and they’re passionate about what they do,” Longoria said. The bar will

also feature locals and imports. “We will have gluten-free beer. Green’s is from Belgium, and we’ll be offering Dogfish Head from Delaware,” Longoria said, adding food pairing is important, too. “We source most of our ingredients from local farms and use organic ingredients whenever possible, and many of our dishes are gluten-free,” the manager said. Hours are 3 p.m. to 2 a.m. Monday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. Friday through Sunday.

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he could practice those skills, come up with his own signature items.” Diners seeking custom sushi have only to ask, she added. Li also makes a beautiful “Sushi Birthday Cake,” and special creations decorated for different holidays and occasions. The restaurant also offers a sushi happy hour, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, with sushi rolls ranging in price. The rolls rotate every couple of months so everyone’s favorite hits discounted prices. Appetizers, soups and entrees run the gamut from familiar to unconventional. “We wanted to bring some very traditional dishes from home that you don’t see on menus here too often,” Li said. HINT: The Stone Oak Roll, lightly fried and filled with cream cheese and house-made crab salad, will bring you back again and again. For a holiday party, think about serving a savory sushi cake decorated and decked out for the season. Hours are 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, closed Monday.

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Roll in to Li’s for sushi and more by JACQUE CROUSE

i’s Restaurant & Sushi Bar, tucked into a shopping strip just east of Stone Oak Parkway at 20330 Huebner Road, Suite 106, presents a cozy atmosphere where the lights are dim and the food shines.

Li’s Restaurant & Sushi Bar focuses on both Japanese and Chinese cuisine, offering sushi and sashimi (above) and authentic dishes from China such as the combination spicy hot pot (right). Photos by Collette Orquiz

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Whether you live nearby or not, it’s well worth the trip, especially for sushi lovers. Owners Dan Li and Amy Han are a husband-and-wife team who emigrated 12 years ago from Shenyang, a city in northeast China. Li began working in area restaurants, and has been a chef at Formosa Garden, Tong’s Thai and Sushihana Japanese Restaurant. “He has developed a lot of skills as a sushi chef,” Han said of her husband. “We wanted a place where

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