LOCAL: Castle Hills, Shavano Park, North Central, 78213, 78230, 78248, 78249 December 2015 by San Antonio Local Community News

KIDS’ TOWN HALL

PG.12 More development

underway at Inverness Expansion adds dozens of luxury lots along Wurzbach Parkway

PG.18 District 8 Councilman Nirenberg

wants to encourage civic participation at a young age

PG.14 Castle Hills police,

businessman pedal for charity

Team Asphalt Caballeros rides to fight multiple sclerosis

COMMUNITY NEWS CASTLE HILLS

VOL. 4, ISSUE 6

SHAVANO PARK

NORTH SIDE

78213 78230 78231 78248 78249

DEC. 14, 2015 - JAN. 7, 2016

INSIDE YOUR COMMUNITY

HAPPY HOLIDAYS! PG. 04 LOCAL EDITORIAL Moving San Antonio elections to November makes plenty of sense

Veterans memorial considered for Shavano Park Public input will be sought to honor those who served

PG.21

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EAT LOCAL PG.26 LUSH ROOFTOP New lounge features dancing under the stars

Shavano Park’s menorah shines for

Hanukkah PG.10 Placement near city Christmas tree

stresses unity, coexistence

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President Harold J. Lees Publisher Gregg Rosenfield Assoc. Publisher Rick Upton EDITORIAL Executive Editor Thomas Edwards News Staff Collette Orquiz, Bain Serna and Will Wright Contributing Writers Olivier J. Bourgoin, Ron Aaron Eisenberg, Joyce Hotchkiss, Carole Miller, Eric Moreno, Edmond Ortiz, Eileen Pace, Travis E. Poling, Lucille Sims Thomas, and Susan Yerkes ART Creative Director Florence D. Edwards Contributing Photographer Rudy B. Ornelas

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ADVERTISING Advertising Director Jaselle Luna Zone Manager Marc Olson Account Manager Lt. Col. James Fowler (Army, retired) Controller Keith Sanders READER SERVICE Mailing Address 4204 Gardendale St., Ste. 201 SA, TX 78229 Phone Fax (210) 338.8842 (210) 616.9677 Advertising Inquiries molson@localcommunitynews.com Story Ideas tips@localcommunitynews.com Website www.salocallowdown.com LOCAL Community News publications Zone 1: 78204, 78205, 78209, 78210, 78212, 78215 Zone 3: 78216, 78232, 78247 Zone 4/5: 78109, 78148, 78233, 78239 78108, 78132, 78154, 78266 Zone 6: 78258, 78259, 78260, 78261 Zone 7: 78015, 78023, 78255, 78256, 78257 For advertising, customer service or editorial, please call us at 210-338-8842 or write to us at: Local Community News 4204 Gardendale St., Ste. 201, San Antonio, TX 78229

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DEC. 14, 2015 - JAN. 7, 2016

Season for peace

ne of my fondest memories about growing up at Fort Sam Houston is the weekday, lateafternoon observance that included a short burst of solemn music and the simulated firing of cannons. No matter what you were doing, if you were outside and heard the music you stopped and turned in the direction of the flag flying over the MacArthur Parade Field, close to Beach Pavilion. Army brats like me and adult civilians stood at attention to honor the Stars and Stripes, but if you wore a uniform or BDUs like my dad, you saluted. Even if you were in a car or on a bike, you braked, got out or stepped off, and paid your respects to Old Glory. The cannon fire always followed. I loved everything about that tradition. Participating in the daily ritual made me feel patriotic toward my country and proud of the job my father and his fellow soldiers carried out to keep America safe. Growing up on military reservations, I often heard the term “peacekeepers.” Now it may surprise some of you to think that men and women who wage war are called peacekeepers. But as my dad always reminded me, soldiers are the last people who want a war, and the first ones to pray for peace. This time of year we're going to hear a lot about peace on Earth. This is a wonderful sentiment. But as folks mouth the words and sing the songs, and thoughts of presents and candy canes dance in some heads, let’s not forget the warriors stationed here and abroad safeguarding us so that we can enjoy these glad tidings. Remember the peacekeepers. Bless them, bless you and may all enjoy a safe holiday.

THOMAS EDWARDS EXECUTIVE EDITOR For the second year, a menorah is displayed on the municipal tract in Shavano Park near a Christmas tree to symbolize harmony in the community. It is lit during the eight-day holiday of Hanukkah to commemorate the menorah that illuminated the Temple of Jerusalem 2,100 years ago after a conquering army was driven out. Though there was only enough oil for a day, religious texts say it lasted for eight days and nights. See story on 10. Photo by Rudy B. Ornelas

SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM

LOCAL COMMENTARY

The gift of reading, San Antonio style by SUSAN YERKES

hen I think of holiday

gifts, my thoughts turn to books. Blame my upbringing — I grew up in a bookstore. When we moved to San Antonio in the 1960s, my parents opened H. R. Higgins Books, named after my stepfather. (It later became The Twig.) I love to read, and I had permission to take most books home and peruse them, as long as they came back spotless. (Even today, a peanut butter and jelly stain on a book page sends me into a momentary panic.) For years after my folks sold the shop I couldn’t walk into

a good bookstore without buying half a dozen titles. And despite occasional Amazon buying binges, I still feel fiercely loyal to independent bookstores, where the proprietors read voraciously and recommend skillfully. In fact, I’d like to give all my readers the gift of a book this Christmas. But since that’s not in the budget, I’ll settle for recommending a few San Antonioflavored books I’ve enjoyed this year. “San Antonio’s Spanish Missions: A Portrait,” by Lewis Fisher, with beautiful photos by Mike Osborne and a foreword by the Rev. David Garcia, celebrates the beautifully preserved missions, now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Another of Fisher’s books, “American Venice: The Epic Story of San Antonio’s River,” tells the history of the River Walk in photographs and text. “San Antonio: The Saga” is another magnificent tome full of images from the fantastic sound-and-light show in Main Plaza. With big changes coming for the Alamo, Paul Walker’s “Remember the Alamo: Texians, Tejanos and Mexicans Tell their Stories” brings a new perspective to the mission’s tale. There’s also the new biography by Ron J. Jackson Jr. and Lee Spencer White, “Joe, The Slave Who Became an Alamo

Legend.” And rock star Phil Collins’ “The Alamo and Beyond: A Collector’s Journey” is a sumptuous book on the Briton’s huge collection of Alamo artifacts, which he subsequently donated to the state. It features many of the historical pieces that will someday be on display in an Alamo museum downtown. Classic film fans will enjoy “Not Thinkin’…Just Rememberin’…The Making of John Wayne’s ‘The Alamo.’” Paula Allen’s fascinating “San Antonio Then and Now” pairs stories of the city with past and present photographs. Most recent of all is “San Antonio: Our Story of 150 Years in the Alamo City,” from Trinity University Press – a big, impressive coffee-table book with a sesquicentennial’s worth of stories and pictures. Foodies will love restaurateur Cappy Lawton’s “Enchiladas: Aztec to Tex-Mex” or “San Antonio Beer,” an account of the city’s brewing biz from the 19th century to today by LOCAL Community News contributor Travis E. Poling and Jeremy Banas. Sandra Cisneros’ new memoir “A House of My Own” is high on my hot list of fiction books. Jan Jarboe Russell’s “The Train to Crystal City” is an important, eye-opening account of the long-secret internment camp in Crystal City, where

thousands of Japanese and German families were imprisoned during World War II. Cynthia Leal Massey’s “Death of a Texas Ranger: A True Story of Murder and Vengeance on the Texas Frontier” is a great Wild West read. Bryce Milligan’s Wings Press is a San Antonio treasure, and you’ll find some great books on the website wingspress.com. Notables are the new anthology of Texas women’s work, “Her Texas: Story, Image, Poem & Song”; poet Naomi Shihab Nye’s new offering “Famous”; and Joe Holley’s rollicking story “The Purse Bearer: A Novel of Love, Lust and Texas Politics.” Also new is a book that brought back many memories for me: Mary Carolyn Hollers George’s “Rosengren’s Books: An Oasis for Mind and Spirit.” The beloved downtown bookstore was my parents’ biggest competitor. And finally, here’s a great tip for all readers – a free app called OverDrive that gives you access to e-books, audio books and more from hundreds of libraries, including the San Antonio Public Library. In return, the best gift you could give me is to recommend the books you have enjoyed this year. Happy holidays, and read on! syerkes@localcommunitynews.com

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OUR TURN Views and opinions about your community

Move city elections to November

oter participation in local elections continues to drop, but District 8 Councilman Ron Nirenberg has an idea to stop the decline that is worth supporting — move the balloting from May to November. Nirenberg touts the example of Austin, which saw a 40 percent rise in electorate turnout when municipal elections switched from the spring to mid-fall, to coincide with state and national balloting. Another advantage to changing election dates is the savings passed on to taxpayers by combining one election season managed by the Bexar County Elections Department. Analysts know that more voters turn out during a countrywide contest, such as the one to select a president, so why not build on that momentum by adding municipal

balloting? If not, voter apathy could worsen, with participation continuing to fall. During the key race for San Antonio mayor in May, in which 14 candidates sought the position, only 14 percent of registered voters even showed up at the polls. When fewer voters cast ballots, then special-interest groups and those with very narrow agendas control the balloting and the ultimate fate of a city. Nirenberg’s idea deserves consideration. So far, most of his colleagues on City Council have not exactly given the notion a ringing endorsement. Mayor Ivy Taylor even worries that partisanship could enter the local races if they are held the same time as state and national contests. Truthfully, local elections for City Council rarely have split along party lines and have a lot more to do with money, demographics, neighborhoods and geography. Plenty of cities in the area already hold November elections with nary a whiff of partisanship or problems — Converse, Cibolo and Windcrest come to mind. This idea has merit and could boost local democracy. Contact your San Antonio council member and let them know you support moving the elections to November.

-The Local Community News editorial board includes Harry Lees, Gregg Rosenfield and Thomas Edwards.

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HAPPENING LOCAL

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

OUR GUIDE TO YOUR MONTH

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ACA OPEN ENROLLMENT Cody Branch Library will offer a series of sessions that let you deal with certified health insurance “navigators” as you check out health insurance plans and sign up for a policy. Hours are noon4 p.m. or 1-5 p.m.; for exact times and the dates of other sessions, check out the calendar of events at www.mysapl.org. The library is at 11441 Vance Jackson Road.

DEC. 16, 17/ JAN. 6, 7, 13, 14

URBAN BIRDS Identifying the birds that 19 call San Antonio home is made easier by Greg and Jana Gibbons’ fun-and-games approach. The class is from 10 a.m. to noon at the Urban Ecology Center at Phil Hardberger Park, and includes a kid-friendly activity. Admission is free, though a donation of $3 a person or $5 per family is suggested.

DECEMBER

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OUTDOOR

MUSIC

FOOD

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SHAVANO PARK The City Council will hold 21 its monthly meeting at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall, 900 Saddletree Court.

DECEMBER

HO, HO, HO – SCHOOL’S OUT Classes are on hiatus for Christmas vacation and New Year’s Day observance in the Northside and North East independent school districts.

DEC. 21 JAN. 1

LIBRARIES CLOSED San Antonio Public Library 24-27 All branches, including Cody Branch Library, 11441 Vance Jackson Road, will be closed Dec. 24-27 as well

DECEMBER

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THE CENTER OF ATTENTION

as New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. FILM FEST KICK-OFF To whet appetites for February’s 9 Barshop JCC Jewish Film Festival, the Jewish Community Center will screen “Marvin Hamlisch: What He Did for Love.” Doors open at 7 p.m. and the screening of the documentary is at 8 p.m.; the $10 admission price includes a dessert reception. For more, call 302-6828. The JCC is on the Campus of the San Antonio Jewish Community, 12500 N.W. Military Highway at Wurzbach Parkway.

JANUARY

NEISD TRUSTEES North East Independent 11 School District trustees are scheduled to meet at 5:30 p.m. in the NEISD board room, 8961 Tesoro Drive.

JANUARY

CASTLE HILLS The City Council meets 12 at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall, 209 Lemonwood Drive.

JANUARY

NISD TRUSTEES The Northside Independent 19 School District board meets at 7 p.m. in the boardroom at 5900 Evers Road.

JANUARY

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NUTCRACKER SWEETS The annual fundraiser for the 14 Battered Women and Children’s Shelter will offer an array of treats – savory as well as sweet – at the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Noted chefs, including many from top restaurants around town, will create the bits of culinary bliss. There will be live jazz, ballet and a silent auction, too. Tickets cost $50 for adults and $25 for teens 13-17; there’s no charge for kids 12 and younger. Buy tickets through a link at nutcrackersweetssa. org, where you’ll also find a list of the chefs and the treats they’ll be serving.

DECEMBER

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SANTA’S RAILROAD WONDERLAND Christmas lights and trains of all sizes make for a festive outing at the Texas Transportation Museum on Saturday and Sunday from 6 to 9 p.m. There will be train rides and big trains to tour, plus all kinds of model train setups, indoors and out. Vintage autos are on display, and Choo Choo Claus is available for pictures. The remaining dates are Dec. 12, 13, 19, 20 and 26. Tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for kids 2-12; call 490-3554. The museum is at 11731 Wetmore Road.

DECEMBER WEEKENDS

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DECEMBER

SONS OF CONFEDERATE VETERANS, CAMP 153 Hood’s Texas Brigade, Camp

153, meets at 7 p.m. at Grady’s Bar-B-Q, 6510 San Pedro Ave. Members and guests are welcome to eat beginning at 6 p.m.; no reservations are required. The Camp meets the third Tuesday of each month. For more, visit www.hoodstexasbde.com. SONS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION 16 The San Antonio Chapter of the national organization holds its monthly luncheon at 11:30 a.m. at the Petroleum Club, 8620 N. New Braunfels Ave. Lunch costs $25. RSVPs are required. Call Bob Clark at 402-0871, or email to reservations@sarsat.org by the Monday before the meeting. The chapter meets on the third Wednesday of each month, except July and August.

DECEMBER

SAN ANTONIO CIVIL WAR ROUND TABLE 17 The group meets the third Thursday of each month at Grady’s Bar-B-Q, 6510 San Pedro Ave., for a 6 p.m. dinner and 7 p.m. meeting. Those interested in Civil War history are invited to share stories and ideas. No reservations are required. For more, contact Nancy Hodges at lyndz76@yahoo.com or Daniel Snell at surveyking@satx.rr.com.

DECEMBER

THE NUTCRACKER Ballet International and 18-20 Mejia the San Antonio Metropolitan Ballet will stage the holiday classic, which will be choreographed and directed by Paul Mejia, once a principal dancer under George Balanchine at the New York City Ballet. Noted Russian dancers will take the principal roles and students at San Antonio Metropolitan Classical Ballet will portray the children. Performances, which take place at the Lila Cockrell Theatre, are at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 18, 2 and 7:30 p.m. Dec. 19 and 2 p.m. Dec. 20. Tickets range from $29 to $110 and are available at Ticketmaster. com, ArtsSA.org or by calling Arts San Antonio at 226-2891. The theater is at 610 E. Market St. in the Convention Center.

DECEMBER

MORNING JOG Eisenhower Park, 19399 19 N.W. Military Highway, hosts Jingle Trails Run 1K and 5K at 8 a.m. The third annual running event’s mission is to raise awareness for Any Baby Can. Music, food and beverages accompany the fitness. For registration costs and more, visit www.athleteguild.com.

DECEMBER

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

Open and Opening Soon 1. LUSH ROOFTOP, 4553 N. Loop 1604 West, is a recently opened rooftop club bringing New York-style night life to San Antonio, the owner says. With deejays and the most current music, patrons can dance under the stars up top or inside, thanks to the layout of the lounge. Hours are 10 a.m. to 2 a.m. Tuesday through Saturday. For more, visit www. lushrooftop.com or facebook.com/ Lushrooftop. (See story on page 25) 2. GOLD’S GYM, 2251 Lockhill-Selma

Road, Suite 12, in Lockhill Village shopping center, will soon debut. The office is already open to register members. The gym is a 32,000-squarefoot facility that features an indoor pool, group exercise, a cycle studio, a kids club, spacious locker rooms and certified personal trainers. For more, call 343-2224 or visit www.goldsgym.com/ lockhill-village. (See story on page 26)

Address of local business Name of local business

3. BEIJING CHINESE RESTAURANT,

2313 N.W. Military Highway, recently reopened under new management after being closed for extensive remodeling. It is operated by a family with more than 30 years of experience in the restaurant business, and they “are eager to bring Beijing back to its roots of serving fresh Chinese cuisine” in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, a spokesman said. Hours are 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. For more, call 340-0921 or visit www.beijingsa.com.

4. THE GENERAL PUBLIC, 17619 La

Cantera Parkway, Suite 102 in The Rim, held a recent grand opening to herald its dining and libations. According to its website, “The General Public is a spirited neighborhood restaurant and bar committed to wholesome food and warm hospitality. We are devoted to

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IN OTHER NEWS

U.S. REP. JOAQUIN CASTRO, representing Texas’ 20th Congressional Dstrict, met with members of Jewish War Veterans Post 753 on Nov. 22 at Holzman Auditorium on the Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Campus of the San Antonio Jewish Community. About 30 veterans spoke with the congressman and asked questions. Topics included veteran and current military-related issues, such as long waits at Veterans Affairs medical facilities and concerns about VA benefits. Castro also shared his agenda relating to veteran and military matters. HONORING THE VICTIMS OF THE RECENT TERRORIST ATTACKS in Paris, District 8 Councilman Ron Nirenberg and other leaders joined hundreds at Main Plaza downtown in a vigil on Nov. 15 to remember those who died. Also attending

were Spurs players Tony Parker and Boris Diaw, both of whom are French nationals.

toys in the collection bin located at City Hall, 209 Lemonwood Drive.

THE VANCE JACKSON NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION HELD its communitywide pre-Thanksgiving potluck dinner at The Colonies House, 3511 Colony Drive, on Nov. 12. During the gathering, a special information session and discussion about SA Tomorrow outlined the “three-part planning effort to guide the city toward smart, sustainable growth,” a spokesman said. SA Tomorrow features comprehensive, sustainability and multimodal transportation plans. All three aspects are meant to prepare for San Antonio’s current and projected population and commercial growth. The potluck also featured prize giveaways and information tables staffed by business sponsors.

MEMBERS OF THE LEE HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT COUNCIL and administration attended the 2016 Battle of Flowers Float Drawing Party, which was held at Los Patios on Nov 10. The Battle of Flowers Parade is scheduled for April 22. The party served as the official float theme selection for area high schools invited to participate in the annual Fiesta parade. Student Council President Emily Gallegos had the honor of selecting the theme for the school’s float this year, “Traditional Texas Folk Art.”

THE CASTLE HILLS POLICE DEPARTMENT IS HOLDING its yearly Blue Santa toy drive to provide toys and other goods to families in need during the holiday season. In December, “Castle Hills police officers, volunteers and Blue Santa work very hard to deliver all the needed items to the children and their families,” a city official said. Those wishing to help can drop off new, unwrapped

FIFTH-GRADERS AT COLONIAL HILLS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL held their first Mock Job Fair Nov. 19, said officials with the North East Independent School District. The students researched a job, filled out resumes and went through an interview process. A winner from each class got the job, as well as being awarded a certificate. FAMILIES IN NEED RECEIVED A HELPING HAND this holiday season thanks to students at Eisenhower Middle School and the North Central Rotary Club as part of the annual Turkey Run. According to a

spokeswoman, “Teachers, counselors and students came to put 100-plus donated turkeys from H-E-B and food bags together for families within the district so that they (could) have a wonderful Thanksgiving.” THE AMERICAN LUNG ASSOCIATION’S ASTHMA-FRIENDLY SCHOOLS INITIATIVE recognized eight North East Independent School District campuses for asthma-management efforts: White Middle School; and Jackson-Keller, Montgomery, Oak Grove, Ridgeview, Serna, Windcrest and Woodstone elementaries. The association credited the schools for creating healthy environments for students, faculty and staff. The Asthma-Friendly Schools Initiative’s Champion Awards recognize facilities bettering pupils’ health by developing comprehensive plans to improve asthma management. The association encourages educational institutions to improve asthma management by establishing a plan maximizing school-health services, providing asthma education and ensuring all students can participate in physical education and activities when they are able. CITY COUNCIL RECENTLY APPROVED

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SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM LOWDOWN continues from pg. 08 AN ORDINANCE TO IMPLEMENT Safe Exchange Zones at six police substations across San Antonio, including the San Antonio Police Department Prue Substation, 5020 Prue Road, serving the North and Northwest sides, and the North Substation, 13030 Jones Maltsberger Road. District 10 Councilman Mike Gallagher said SAPD helped spearhead the effort, designed to reduce the likelihood of criminal activity during online marketplace exchanges. “Providing the community with an option to safely conduct business like this is long overdue,” Gallagher said in a prepared release. “With the establishment of Safe Exchange Zones, not only will our residents be afforded an opportunity to safely conduct e-commerce exchanges with strangers, but they will also have the opportunity to meet their neighborhood patrol officers.” Safe Exchange sites will offer designated parking lot spaces and inside lobbies at SAPD substations for residents to use in completing transactions, as well as monitoring by security cameras, said officials. The new program will not incur additional costs to taxpayers. For more, visit a link at the SAPD website, www.sanantonio.gov/sapd.

VOTERS NOV. 3 APPROVED A $499.95 MILLION BOND ISSUE in the North East Independent School District for facility improvements. According to officials, 66 percent of those who cast ballots favored the district’s referendum, which outlines 69 projects to renovate and upgrade out-of-date facilities at older campuses and enhance other needs. NEISD officials said the bond will not increase taxes for at least five years, with most of the money designated for campus improvements, $225.8 million; extracurricular programs, $89.8 million; technology upgrades, $72.4 million; district operations, $60 million; safety and security, $20 million; bondprogram management, $17 million; and a $15 million bond-contingency program. BE WARY OF AGGRESSIVE PANHANDLERS on Blanco Road and area shopping centers on the North Side, according to Capt. Laura Anderson of the San Antonio Police Department, who spoke at a recent City Council District 10 community meeting. Anderson, commander of the SAPD North Substation, asked residents not to give the panhandlers any money, for fear they might be substance abusers. If approached by an aggressive panhandler, Anderson said, retreat to a safe place and call 911.

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HAVANO PARK – For the second year in a row, a menorah is being lit next to the city Christmas tree on the municipal tract to shine as a symbol of hope and peace.

The lighting takes on special significance in the wake of racial and anti-Semitic graffiti that targeted nearby San Antonio neighborhoods and a Jewish place of worship in August, neighbors say. “It’s a great expression of the holiday season,” said resident Norton Shectman. “There is a Christmas tree there, so why not have a menorah as well? It’s about coexistence.” The large public menorah’s first “candle” was lit at sunset Dec. 6 and the lightings will continue through Dec. 13,

During the lighting of a menorah Dec. 6 at the Shavano Park municipal tract, residents, religious leaders and local officials gathered for the ceremony, including former Mayor A. David Marne (left), Mayor Robert Werner, Norton Shectman and Mark Greenwald. Photo by Rudy Ornelas

until all eight candles of the menorah are illuminated, including the ninth “helper” candle that is used to light the others as part of the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah. “This is not just a Jewish celebration, but a celebration of all mankind, bringing light to the world and rededicating ourselves against tyranny and oppression,” said former Mayor A. David Marne. According to tradition, Hanukkah commemorates the successful revolt of a small band of Jewish guerrilla warriors

SHAVANO PARK continues on pg. 11

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SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM SHAVANO PARK continues from pg. 10 in the second century B.C., led by the Maccabees, against the much larger military forces of the Seleucid Empire of Syria. The Hellenistic ruler of the empire, Antiochus IV Epiphanes, invaded Jerusalem, violently persecuted its people and desecrated the temple. But the Maccabean revolt proved a success; the temple was recaptured and rededicated. During the rededication, only enough oil for one day was found for the menorah lamp, yet the lamp burned for eight days, according to religious teaching. Hanukkah commemorates the victory and the miracle of the burning lamp, with celebrants participating in activities such as lighting the menorah, singing songs, eating traditional foods and sweets, exchanging gifts, playing games and more. “It’s very nice to include other beliefs and celebrations during the winter season,” said Rachel Stern, a Shavano Park resident most of her life. “Hanukkah is actually the Hebrew word for ‘rededication.’ It is the story of a small group who were not favored to be the victors, but still overcame a time of religious oppression. I think it’s great to have different symbols around to show appreciation and understanding of each other.”

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The commemoration is about inclusion and unity, Marne said. “Hanukkah is not a new thing. Christ celebrated Hanukkah, and it can be celebrated by all peoples,” said Marne, referring to the New Testament passage in John 10:22 where Jesus observes Hanukkah in Jerusalem. The menorah and Christmas tree together in the city are symbolic of peace, understanding and mutual respect, Marne said. The former mayor said the menorah becomes an even more powerful symbol for peace after the summer vandalism at nearby homes and Congregation Rodfei Sholom, a synagogue near Shavano Park. According to Marne, the menorah is a reminder of the ongoing struggle between good and evil, and the need to bring justice to the world. “The menorah isn’t a religious symbol so much as it is a symbol against oppression for all people,” he said. “It’s a symbol against anti-Semitic oppression, such as the vandalism against Rodfei Sholom and nearby Jewish homes, but also a symbol against people who would desecrate a mosque or a church, or any other type of persecution. The menorah is a shining light against any of that, and is symbolic of freedom for all people.”

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INVERNESS continues from pg. 01

Nearby shops, jobs part of neighborhood’s continued appeal by TRAVIS E. POLING

he gated luxury community of Inverness has been around since 1998, but a round of development is putting dozens of new lots on the market in a part of the city where highdollar houses are in big demand.

Inverness, a project of longtime San Antonio developer Israel Fogiel, president of Great America Companies, was still clearing land in late November and had just recently begun marketing the new lots. In all, 65 parcels are for sale ranging from two-tenths of an acre to nearly a full acre, according to Great America marketing materials to prospective buyers.

Inverness is developing units two and four along Wurzbach Parkway and across from Alon Town Centre, appealing to those who don't want to live outside Loop 1604 while offering proximity to jobs, shopping and cultural hubs, real-estate experts say. Photo by Collette Orquiz

Prices range from $165,000 to $400,000. “We had interest in additional lots,” and decided to proceed with developing units two and four of Inverness, said Marian Adams, executive administrator to Fogiel. Inverness is bordered by Wurzbach Parkway – the recently completed east-west road linking Interstate 35, U.S. 281, Northwest Military Highway, Lockhill-Selma Road and Interstate 10. Although Adams doesn’t think

Wurzbach Parkway’s completion is what sparked the interest, she said location is a factor, with nearby amenities including Alon Town Centre. The retail development includes numerous shops, services and restaurants along with H-E-B Alon Market grocery and a Christus Santa Rosa emergency center. The Campus of the San Antonio Jewish Community, which includes the Barshop Jewish Community Center, also is nearby, serving as a cultural hub.

Parks, greenbelts and nature trails are among the amenities in Inverness, along with 24-hour security at the main gate on Wurzbach. Although they are miles from downtown, the fact that developments between the northern portion of Loop 410 and Loop 1604 North have matured, makes the new phase of Inverness almost like an urban infill development, said Frank Pakuszewski, a real estate developer specializing in infill projects. Another luxury not always found in suburban developments is the preservation of mature trees and lots of green space. “We try to preserve the trees and keep the elegance,” Adams said of Inverness. The last steps of the infrastructure for the new units are in the works now, including laying the asphalt in roadbeds for the new streets, she said. While some future luxury homeowners are seeking lots outside 1604, including the I-10 corridor as far out as Boerne and along 281, many still desire something closer to where they work and congregate. “It’s impressive, the location of Inverness,” said A. David Marne, head of Half Priced Real Estate with a longtime record of high-end sales from

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SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM INVERNESS continues from pg. 12 Alamo Heights to Shavano Park. “If you work in the (South Texas) Medical Center or at USAA, you can get there quickly,” thanks to the Wurzbach Parkway, he added. The same is true of even faster access to the airport and downtown. The house sizes in Inverness come with a restriction: none can be smaller than 3,000 square feet and some larger lots require a minimum house size of up to 4,000 square feet, according to information from the Inverness developer. Marne said he has many clients looking to build houses of 3,000 square feet or a little more on a single story in a secure neighborhood, which may account for the demand for the new lots. Even though Inverness has been in development for 17 years, Marne said it took a back seat to filling out as fast as Shavano Park, with lower taxes, its own police force, emergency medical and fire departments. Marne recently completed 10 years as mayor of that city. But with Shavano Park full and surrounding developments nearly sold out, other areas in San Antonio should be getting more attention, especially one with a record of quality builders such as Inverness, he added.

Workmen stay busy in Inverness getting new homes ready, but they come with a restriction — none can be smaller than 3,000 square feet. Photos by Collette Orquiz

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Riders enjoying widespread support from city by LUCILLE SIMS THOMAS

ASTLE HILLS — When members of Team Asphalt Caballeros — made up mostly of Police Department officers — come together to ride bikes to raise money for a charity, they also raise each other’s spirits.

The five men say not only are they aiding a worthwhile cause, they also are meeting personal goals and challenges. To kick things off, Sgt. Esteban Zuniga, the only team member who has done charity bike rides before, recruited three of his fellow officers and a Castle Hills resident to join him in the 2015 Bike MS: Valero Ride to the River event Oct. 3-4. The Bike MS: Valero Ride to the River

Members of Team Asphalt Caballeros include Castle Hills police officers Capt. John Siemens (left), Sgt. Esteban Zuniga, Warrant Officer Richard Hayduk, Cpl. Romeo Munoz and businessman J.R. Trevino. Courtesy photo

is a two-day fundraising bike ride and is sponsored by H-E-B. It starts in San Antonio at the Wheatley Heights Sports Complex and ends in New Braunfels at the Comal County Fairgrounds. “Basically, I’ve been doing this for awhile already, and I brought it up and piqued some interest from some guys here and that’s how we formed,” Zuniga said.

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With help from the city, which bought their helmets, and local businesses and neighbors, the fledgling team raised $2,500 to benefit the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Their initial goal was $1,000. Team Asphalt Caballeros is hoping to continue doing charity rides and is seeking new members. The cyclists do not have to be residents of Castle Hills.

The only requirement to join is to own a bike and have a desire to ride. Team captain J.R. Trevino, vice president of Treco Enterprises, is the only participant who isn’t a Castle Hills police officer. He designed the team’s colorful jerseys, which feature the names

CABALLEROS continues on pg. 15

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SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM CABALLEROS continues from pg. 14 of the team’s sponsors, and said he was inspired by Zuniga. He bought his bike a few months before the ride and had to overcome numerous scheduling conflicts to find times when fellow members could all participate in training rides. “Sgt. Zuniga was the one who had the experience – he’d done it before,” Trevino said. “I was just trying to help where I could. We were all working to make sure everybody was prepared physically, ’cause the other four of us had never even really been on a bike much.” Warrant Officer Richard Hayduk saw the ride as a chance to get in better shape and improve his fitness while also helping a great charity. “It’s a great cause and it’s a good way to raise money for the program,” he said. “And also I just turned 51, I’m out of shape and I figured if I could ride all those miles in two days – that’s a good accomplishment.” Trevino and Hayduk both said the second day of the ride through mostly hills was their biggest challenge, despite the 40- to 50-mile training rides they did to prepare for the event. So who came up with the team’s unique name? According to

Trevino, it began as a joke and then caught on as a viable moniker. “It started off kind of funny and then we decided a funny name was probably a good name,” Trevino said. Police Chief Wayne Davis supported the team, and was there at the end to encourage them and to videotape the riders as they crossed the finish line. The cyclists praised the support offered on the day of the ride as they progressed along the route. “The good thing about the ride is you have a lot of support. About every 10 miles, you have a rest stop where everybody could stop and hydrate,” Zuniga said. “And they provide snacks such as granola bars, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and Advil,” Hayduk said. “To me, who’s never done it before, it was very surprising. It was great. Great organization.” Also along the route, they encountered people with multiple sclerosis who were cheering for them and thanking them for riding. “It was kind of nice to see who we were supporting and helping,” Trevino said. Team Asphalt Caballeros’ other two members are Capt. John Siemens and Cpl. Romeo Munoz. For information on joining, email Zuniga at szuniga@cityofcastlehills.com.

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Students probed for ties to vandalism spree by COLLETTE ORQUIZ

he arrests of five Churchill High School students have police probing for links to a crime spree in Greater Harmony Hills involving 60 incidents that included shattered windows and stolen cars.

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Vandals armed with BB guns targeted homes and Harmony Hills Elementary School during a crime wave that began in mid-September and culminated with arrests Oct. 20, police said. The dozens of cases under investigation include the suspected thefts of 14 vehicles, added officers with the San Antonio Police Department. “The suspects were apprehended as the result of a collaborative effort from members of the community, detectives from North Property Crimes and our Vehicle Crimes Unit,” said Police Chief William McManus. While the crime wave left residents

shaken, it demonstrated the importance of knowing one’s neighbors and surroundings, said Michael Apolinar, president of the Greater Harmony Hills Neighborhood Association. “I think it was a great result from a very bad situation,” Apolinar said. Social media played a large part in keeping the neighborhood informed, officials said. According to police, two 17-yearold males have been charged with auto theft in connection with the investigation. Three others — two aged 14 and a 15-year-old — were charged under juvenile delinquency laws. Police said all five attend Churchill. In the overall cases reported to investigators, damage ranged from $200 to $2,000 in each episode, and officials with the North East Independent School District estimated it cost Harmony Hills Elementary more than $3,000 to replace the shattered windows. Members of the Greater Harmony Hills community said they are relieved after receiving news of the arrests. Maria Teixeira, a taxi driver and mother of three, said she had trouble sleeping after the driver’s window on

HARMONY continues on pg. 17

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District 9 Councilman Joe Krier (center, left), San Antonio Police Department Chief William McManus (center) and San Antonio Fear Free Environment officers met in October with Greater Harmony Hills residents at the District 9 Field Office, including the president of the neighborhood association Michael Apolinar (far left), to discuss a wave of vandalism and car thefts targeting the neighborhood. Courtesy photo

its National Night Out, with almost 400 residents attending to get to know their neighbors and police. Though the vandals remained at large at the time, the communal gathering helped soothe and comfort many. “There was a real neighborhood effort to care for each other, care for our neighborhood, and the peace that we had,” Gibbons said. “I don’t know how many other neighborhoods do that, but I was really surprised.” Apolinar met with District 9 Councilman Joe Krier, McManus and other concerned residents to talk about the crimes and how to put a stop to them. Within a week of meeting and gathering

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District 8 Councilman Ron Nirenberg talks about 'Our Voices, Our Government' at Oak Meadow Elementary School Nov. 18, part of a continuing series of Kids' Town Hall meetings with students at Northside and North East independent school district campuses to encourage civic participation as they grow older. Photo by Rudy B. Ornelas

TOWN HALL continues from pg. 01

Youth program aimed at curbing voter apathy by EILEEN PACE

istrict 8 Councilman Ron Nirenberg is working hard to encourage a new generation to take part in the civic process — even if some can’t vote for several more years. He wants to inspire children of all ages to immerse themselves in their communities and government, and recently held Kids’ Town Hall meetings with Garcia Middle School and Oak Meadow Elementary School students. During the Nov. 18 Oak Meadow session, Nirenberg told youngsters, “You have a voice in your community and I want you to use it, and I want to show you that local government, your City Council and the folks that are fixing the streets and the folks that are controlling your neighborhoods really want to help you live in a great San Antonio.” The town halls teach schoolchildren that classroom lessons about government have applications in the real world, said Tracy Wernli, the academic dean at Garcia. “Anytime we can take the learning outside the walls of the school and make it applicable to their world has a greater

impact,” Wernli said, according to a release. “Our students learned they do have a voice and can make a difference.” Nirenberg, who started the town halls in 2013 and plans to hold one about every three months, hopes the events reverse a growing voter-apathy trend regarding municipal elections. Early in his career, he studied and worked at the Annenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania, where he learned that if young people become involved in the workings of their community, most stay engaged as adults. “How many of you are excited about voting?” Nirenberg asked the Oak Meadow audience, evoking laughter from the preteens. Then, he conceded he meant in the next seven or eight years, and the students became quiet, listening. “How many of you think it’s important to vote?” Nirenberg said. The councilman has taken the program to the Northside and North East independent school districts styled like town-hall meetings – the same type that neighborhood groups attend with local community leaders to voice concerns about streets and drainage, home values and economic development, or how an elected official is expected to represent constituents. At this Kids’ Town Hall, Nirenberg explained to about 75 students the duties of a council member and those of the mayor. He discussed how they decide where to put sidewalks and how city services are paid. Nirenberg, who’s also a dad, talked to the kids in a way they could understand. Devising a metaphor for how

TOWN HALL continues on pg. 19

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TOWN HALL continues from pg. 18 City Hall works, Nirenberg selected six student representatives in a “democratic experiment to decide when and what to have for lunch.” Some outside the six wanted Papa John’s, but he explained only those representing the group were allowed a vote. Altogether, he’s conducted almost 10 Kids’ Town Halls. In an email, Nirenberg said students are eager to share their ideas, both in middle and elementary school. “Students at the middle school level seemed more focused on issues of infrastructure, such as sidewalks and streets,” he said. “At the elementary level, they seemed more focused on the macro-level balance between the natural and built environments.” Though the kids can't go to the ballot box, they can still have an impact. “You all have great ideas and here’s an example,” Nirenberg told the Oak Meadow kids. “Last year at Garcia Middle School, students told me their subdivisions were built with no sidewalks, so they had to walk right next to the street.” Nirenberg said the council had no idea. He told the younger kids, “This is a big place. San Antonio has 500 square miles and only 100 people to watch it. … So, the students had said, ‘Mr. Nirenberg, we have a problem with our sidewalks and we need your help.’ And it was so impressive to me. They thought that if they talked to their city councilman – even though they couldn’t vote – that we could somehow help them get sidewalks and make it safer for them to get to school.” The council member invited the middle school students to City Hall last February, where they made a presentation to the Transportation & Capital Improvements staff, Nirenberg said. “I wanted city staff to hear directly from these constituents about an issue they were having and provide feedback, and I wanted the students to learn about the budget process and the resources we would need to implement their ideas,” he added. During a follow-up meeting Nov. 10 at Garcia, Nirenberg and the children celebrated the completion of a $29,000 walkway on the east side of Kyle Seale Parkway, which provides safer passage for pedestrians and bikers. “That’s because those kids at their town hall said, ‘This is something wrong in our community and we need to fix it,’” Nirenberg told the Oak Meadow students. Nicholas Nyberg, then a seventh-grader when he participated in Garcia’s town hall last year, said even children could exercise some political power, according to a release. “This has shown me that even kids can have a say and make a big impact on

TOWN HALL continues on pg. 20

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TOWN HALL continues from pg. 19 the real world,” said Nicholas, now an eighth-grade Gifted and Talented pupil. During the recent elementary school meeting, Nirenberg heard environmental concerns about air pollution, loss of trees and getting more solar-energy oriented. He said what impressed him most was the number of students asking, “How can I help?” Nirenberg said the payoff wouldn’t be known for a while. “The true measure of success will be years from now, these students leading our city, voting actively and continuing to ensure the forward progress of San Antonio,” Nirenberg said. “In the short term, our measure will be how well we can address their concerns, whether it is in directing the inquiry to the right authority or taking on the tasks that are within the city’s areas of responsibility.” To conclude the event, Nirenberg asked the youngsters if they now looked forward to voting in the future. “You don’t have to be 18 to make a difference in your community,” he said, “and being involved in a town hall like this is one of the best ways you can be involved in your community.”

THE TRUE MEASURE OF SUCCESS WILL BE YEARS FROM NOW, THESE STUDENTS LEADING OUR CITY, VOTING ACTIVELY AND CONTINUING TO ENSURE THE FORWARD PROGRESS OF SAN ANTONIO. RON NIRENBERG, DISTRICT 8 COUNCILMAN (Pictured with Oak Meadow Elementary School Principal Lynn Dockery.) Photo by Rudy B. Ornelas

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HAVANO PARK – A memorial to honor the city’s military veterans is still on the drawing board, but could soon pick up speed if there’s enough public interest, supporters say.

Plans for the memorial’s funding, design, location and construction will require input from residents before moving from the conceptual stage, officials added. “I think the veterans memorial gives our community a way to thank our family, friends and neighbors who served our country,” said Councilwoman Vicky Maisel, who is helping lead the effort for the display. “We have so many members of our community that have served or are currently serving in the military and I think this memorial will be our way of having a permanent reminder of how much they gave of themselves to secure our freedoms.” She added, “On Veterans Day each year we as a city will be able to place a wreath at the memorial and honor the bravery of our veterans.” The memorial would be about preserving history as well as honoring the present, according to officials. “Historically, our initial community was formed up by a lot of veterans,” said Mayor Robert Werner. “They were the initial founding fathers of Shavano Park to a large degree. I think it’s only fitting that we recognize and honor those veterans who live here now, as well as those who are now deceased.” Maisel said such a memorial would have deep personal significance for

21 her because of family history. Her father served as an Air force pilot who flew for the Strategic Air Command. During World War II, Maisel’s grandfather, Paul Meyer, was a civilian prisoner of war in the Philippines at the infamous Santo Tomas prison, and was liberated by the Army’s First Cavalry. Her mother was a young girl at that time under house arrest by the Japanese. The American military saved her family, shared food and brought her father home. Also, the parents of Maisel’s husband, Mike Colemere, both served in World War II. “Right now I have permission from (City) Council to start the design process and get public input and gauge public interest,” Maisel said. “If there is community interest, then I will take the design and get hard numbers as to the cost. I am hoping to create a design that can be added to by subsequent councils and create the project as funds become available. I will be working with Denton Properties and Dan Kossel to create a design that will be unique to Shavano Park. I am hoping to have the first portion finished by Veterans Day of 2016.” There are a number of places on the municipal tract where the memorial could be placed, according to Maisel, such as in the center circle in front of City Hall, the triangle area across from City Hall or the empty space between City Hall and the 911 center. Funding for the project will be primarily through the sales of bricks to create a memory path to the display. The bricks can be engraved with an individual’s or family member’s name, or in honor of someone who has served. “I would like members of the community to be able to walk the path (and) find their own names or family and friends,” Maisel said. “I think it would be a permanent reminder of each person’s contribution to the memorial and to our community.” Private donations of materials and money to help build the memorial will also be used, according to officials, and no taxpayer funds from the city will be sought.

HISTORICALLY, OUR INITIAL COMMUNITY WAS FORMED UP BY A LOT OF VETERANS. I THINK IT’S ONLY FITTING THAT WE RECOGNIZE AND HONOR THOSE VETERANS WHO LIVE HERE NOW, AS WELL AS THOSE WHO ARE NOW DECEASED. ROBERT WERNER SHAVANO PARK MAYOR

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state-of-the-art police academy that recently opened in north San Antonio is training officers from across the region, offering courses ranging from traffic stops and “shoot/don’t shoot” scenarios to crowd control.

The Alamo Area Council of Governments, which represents Bexar and 12 other counties, opened the 20,700-square-foot Public Safety Division facility in April at 12625 Wetmore Road. It is housed in the site of a former private security-training campus, which meant little retrofitting was needed to create the Alamo Area Regional Law Enforcement Academy. “The beauty of this new facility is we

The Alamo Area Council of Governments, which represents 13 counties including Bexar, has moved its Alamo Area Regional Law Enforcement Academy to 12625 Wetmore Road in San Antonio, where cadets from various agencies are trained. Photo by Rudy B. Ornelas

can do most of our training on-site,” said academy supervisor Mike Davis. The academy offers basic peaceofficer and correction-officer programs for individuals obtaining their license through the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education. Training for dispatchers, 911 operators, armed school marshals

and Department of Homeland Security agents is also provided. In addition, the academy provides continuing education for licensed law enforcement professionals — annual in-service training — which is required for all peace officers in the state. Police, deputies, corrections officers and dispatchers can also earn proficiency

certifications through the intermediate-, advanced- and master-level courses available through the academy. Several classes are offered during the year – with about 30 cadets per class. The cost is $2,400 for the 1,000-hour peace-officer course. “A majority of cadets in most classes are self-pay. Some are sponsored by a law-enforcement agency where they may already be employed,” Davis said. Among recent graduates are Bexar County Sheriff Susan L. Pamerleau and San Antonio Police Chief William McManus, both of whom required certification as Texas peace officers. Pamerleau is a retired Air Force major general and McManus came from Minneapolis. They went through training at AACOG’s previous public-safety facility. Davis is proud of the enhancements built into the new facility. For example, there are two separate spaces that provide real-world, virtual-reality training including “shoot/don’t shoot” simulations. The structure also includes a fullyequipped apartment to train cadets on entry and interdiction. Special Weapons and Tactics units, the FBI and other federal agencies also use the apartment for training

AACOG continues on pg. 23

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AACOG continues from pg. 22 The apartment’s “address” is 1168 — the badge number of slain San Antonio Police Department Officer John “Rocky” Riojas, an 11-year veteran fatally shot during a foot chase through an apartment complex Feb. 2, 2001. Physical fitness is a major focus at the training facility, Davis said. There is a special fitness room equipped to help rehabilitate injured students. The main physical fitness center is in a large garage at the rear of the complex designed in the style of a CrossFit box. “We have found CrossFit training to be the very best ‘real-world’ preparation

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AACOG continues on pg. 24

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AACOG continues from pg. 23 setting for crowd-control simulations.” During the past year, the academy’s public safety programs have delivered more than 100,000 hours of training for the 13 AACOG counties. All of the academy’s trainers are certified as master peace officers. “While the state of Texas requires approximately 650 hours for peace-officer certification, AACOG’s program is 1,000

hours,” Davis said. “But, the real advantage is our graduates have all of the certifications they will need to step out onto the streets day one – they are ‘patrol-ready.’” Davis said he and his colleagues are proud of their graduates. That’s why they do everything they can to train cadets for the real world of policing. “It’s what we do because we know it can save their lives,” the academy supervisor said.

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Lush Rooftop nightclub offers skyline dancing by CAROLE MILLER

espite the recent cold snap, the newly opened Lush Rooftop lounge is warming up as one of San Antonio’s hottest new nightclubs. Since its mid-October opening, Lush — located at 4553 N. Loop 1604 West at Lockhill-Selma Road — has already played host to local celebrities, with reported sightings of Spurs Danny Green, Kawhi Leonard and Jonathon Simmons. “This is one of the only rooftop bars in the area. It’s a classic, modern nightclub with a touch of elegance,” said owner Rafael Nunez. “And we have attracted some big artists.” Because of the layout, patrons can

dance the night away under the stars outside or go inside as well to cut a rug. Deejays mix the sounds of dance music. The chic atmosphere includes Egyptian and Austrian crystal chandeliers, a state-of-the-art sound system and a video LED. There are also hookhas. The rooftop lounge, with a tree and a waterfall, offers a breathtaking view and a great place to relax. The dress code is “upscale fashionable attire,” and the club does not permit “hats, sandals, sneakers, hard-soled shoes and boots, ripped or baggy clothing and athletic wear,” according to its Facebook page. “Collared shirts are required for men.” Theme nights at the lounge include college night on Tuesday, electronicdance music night on Wednesday

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Patrons can enjoy dancing under the stars at Lush Rooftop, a new nightclub on the North Side that features deejays, libations and a dance floor on the roof as well as inside. A tree on the top level adds to the ambiance. Photo by Collette Orquiz

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