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News and Information from the City of Bulverde and our Neighbors N Volume 4 Issue 11 Âœ November 2017 ÂŠ 2017 PhotographybySergina

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CITY OF BULVERDE ALL DEPARTMENTS

HTTP://BULVERDETX.GOV MAIN NUMBER 830-438-3612

KenCom Real Estate Services

METRO LINE 830-980-8832 FAX 830-438-4339 Bill Krawietz, MAYOR Gene Hartman, MAYOR PRO TEM

Yvonne Chapman, COUNCIL

Kirk Harrison, COUNCIL

Rob Hurst, COUNCIL

Ray Jeffrey, COUNCIL

David Payne, COUNCIL

COMAL COUNTY MAIN NUMBER 877-724-9475

3FBM &TUBUF 4BMFT t .BSLFUJOH t 1SPQFSUZ .BOBHFNFOU

JUDGE 830-221-1105 COMMISSIONERS COURT 830-221-1100 JUSTICE OF THE PEACE, PCT 2 830-387-7600

ANIMAL CONTROL 830-608-2016

CONSTABLE, PCT 2 830-438-3117

Yvonne Chapman (210) 240-3148 At Your Service YvonneLChapman@yahoo.com

ROAD & BRIDGE 830-608-2090

SHERRIFFâ€™S OFFICE 830-885-4883

TAX OFFICE 830-387-7621

EMERGENCY SERVICES

(IN CASE OF EMERGENCY DIAL 911) NONEMERGENCY LINE 830-620-3400 BULVERDE SPRING BRANCH FIRE & EMS 830-228-4501 CENTRE FOR EMERGENCY HEALTH SCIENCES 830-228-4504

BSB CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 830-438-4285

BSB ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATION 830-885-4331

BSB LIBRARY 830-438-4864

FRONT PORCH NEWS editor@bulverdetx.gov

Some of the content herein may be the copyrighted property of the City of Bulverde, the contributing authors, or our publisher's licensors. No article from this publication may be used, reproduced, transmitted or distributed with the exception that you may photocopy one copy thereof for your personal, noncommercial, home use only. Articles that appear in The Front Porch 1HZV GR QRW QHFHVVDULO\ UHĂ€HFW WKH RIÂżFLDO SRVLWLRQ RI WKH &LW\ RI %XOYHUGH DQG WKHLU SXEOLFDWLRQ does not constitute an endorsement thereof. The appearance of any advertisement in The Front Porch News does not constitute an endorsement by the City of Bulverde. As a City publication, the Front Porch News strives to maintain objectivity and accuracy in all published content. The newsletter must remain neutral in the publication of content that may be FRQVLGHUHG FRQWURYHUVLDO ELDVHG RU LQĂ€DPPDWRU\ ZLWKLQ WKH FRPPXQLW\ H J SROLWLFDO FRQWHQW or opinions, religious material, etc.). The newsletter differs from a newspaper in that opinion pieces are typically not included. Publication of contributing partner content is subject to review for applicability and appropriateness of a publicly funded communication initiative. The newsletter is produced in part through public funding, and is accordingly governed by the regulations set forth in Texas State Law.

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November 2017

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Mayor’s Point Bill Krawietz Mayor of Bulverde, TX

The City of Bulverde was formed to be a minimalistic government. That ideology holds true today, some 20 years after the City was formed. The main objective has always been to manage growth and development. The City, however, cannot ignore issues of public safety and health. In response to an increase of calls for service by the Police Department, City Council has funded an additional police officer in this year’s budget. The force now totals 16 officers on patrol and 1 administrative position. Our crime statistics have held steady at a low rate, and we intend to stay ahead of the curve. The Police Department is the city’s largest expense but worth every penny. Police officers are often the most visible employees for a city but can also be one of their largest liabilities. It is important for a city to offer competitive pay to attract and retain the “cream of the crop” in personnel. This policy has paid off well for

Bulverde, and our police force is second to none for a city of our size. Besides the impressive police force, the city has only a handful of other employees. It has been policy to subcontract to the private sector whenever possible. All road work, building inspections, and engineering services are outsourced. For the past two years the City Council has discussed the possibility of developing City policy and ordinances pertaining to the health and safety practices of local restaurants and other food service facilities within the city. Currently, local restaurants and other food establishments are overseen by the State of Texas, which is responsible for issuing initial permitting and occasional inspections. To a point, this has generally worked fine, but the State’s role is not customized for each city’s needs, so ongoing oversight and follow up may not be as thorough as our City Council would prefer it to be. Therefore, City Council has now voted unanimously for the City to take over the responsibility of this health and safety domain. It may come as a surprise to many that there are more than 50 food establishments within our corporate boundaries. This includes places such as the delis, meat markets, and bakeries at both HEB and Walmart. (Continued on page 4)

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Health inspections will be done by the same company who currently does building inspections, Bureau Veritas. “Created in 1828, Bureau Veritas is a global leader in Testing, Inspection and Certification (TIC), delivering high quality services to help clients meet the growing challenges of quality, safety, environmental protection and social responsibility.” The City has found BV to be quite responsive, with a team of well qualified personnel. They should be able to handle this new task well. One advantage to outsourcing the inspection services is knowing the expected costs. I have always believed that those requesting or requiring inspections should be the ones to pay for the service. Why should the longtime residents of Bulverde pay the cost associated with these inspections? Some people don’t particularly welcome the new growth and development; expecting them to pay for the services would be adding “insult to injury.” The State of Texas has always charged for initial and reoccurring health inspections. With the change, food establishments will now pay those fees to Bulverde. The cost to businesses will be basically unchanged, but I believe we will now have more thorough oversight to protect the public.

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Comal County Corner By Sherman Krause, County Judge

Annual property tax statements began appearing in mailboxes across Comal County last month. The Comal County Tax Office produces these statements each year, calculating the taxes each property owner owes based on appraisals performed by the Comal Appraisal District and the tax rates established by various public entities—including school districts, cities, emergency service districts and the county itself. Sending those statements marks the end of months of discussion and debate on the Comal County budget and tax rate. We often receive questions about this process, and how it affects your taxes. The county’s budget process begins each spring, when departments prepare their requests and submit them to the County Auditor. Each July, the Commissioners Court holds public hearings on these requests, after which the County Judge prepares a recommended budget with input from the Auditor, who estimates the likely tax revenue based on appraisal data. The County Judge presents a recommended budget for the consideration of the Commissioners Court in August, and the court sets a schedule for public hearings and votes to consider the budget and corresponding tax rate. After multiple public hearings, the Commissioners Court adopts the final budget and tax rate, usually in August or September. The final budget is then filed with the County Clerk, and the county’s tax rate becomes part of the Tax Office’s calculations in preparing your statement. This year, the Comal County Commissioners Court approved a $93.38 million budget and 34.79-cent tax rate, which amounts to about $714 per year for a $200,000 home. Although the process can be complicated, Comal County makes these decisions openly and offers multiple opportunities for public comment. The budget is available on our website, www.comalcountytx.com.

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November 2017

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Holiday Happenings Come Back to the Heart of Christmas C s The Bulverde Community Chorus will be presenting "Coming Back to the Heart of Christmas." The Singers and Musicians will help usher in the Christmas season with country, gospel, and moving songs. Get in the spirit by joining us at this unique telling of the story of the Holy Birth. Location: Bulverde United Methodist Church 28300 US Highway 281 N San Antonio, TX 78260

Dates & Times: Friday, December 8th, 7 pm Saturday, December 9th, 7 pm Sunday, December 10th, 3 pm

Children’s Gift Making Workshop Grace Fellowship will be hosting the 8th Annual Kid’s Gift Making Workshop on Saturday, December 9, from 10 a.m–noon. The event is free, and children in grades Pre-K through 5th are welcome to come and make gifts for their family and friends! It’s LOTS of fun!!! Grace Fellowship is located at 32445 US Hwy 281N at Casey Road.

The Front Porch News

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November 2017

You’re Y ou’re IInvited nvited ttoo tthe he Second annual Red, White, & BLUE Breakfast! Please join us for the 2nd Annual Bulverde Blue Breakfast, now even better as the Bulverde Red, White, and Blue Breakfast! To honor and dine with the First Responders who keep us safe in Comal County and those who have served in the military to keep America safe. • Sheriff’s Deputies, Police, Constables, EMS & Firefighters • Air Force, Army, Marines, Navy, Coast Guard Our Community Cares! Have breakfast, share a smile, shake the hands of the men and women who protect our families, our homes, and businesses, and those who have put their lives on the line and sacrificed so much for our country. Give them a generous sample of community support that they can carry with them, as they stand—and have stood— ready to respond and protect. To everyone who wants to show your appreciation to a First Responder hero AND our Military heroes, please join us Saturday, Nov 11th, 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at the Johnson Ranch Fire/EMS Station, 30475 Johnson Way, Bulverde 78163 This catered breakfast, family friendly event is free and open to the public!

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The Front Porch News

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Another Successful Year for Bulverde National Night Out! All across Bulverde in early October, 21 Block Captains hosted National Night Out gatherings for their neighbors and friends. The National Night Out event has grown significantly over the past few years here in Bulverde, with the Bulverde Police Department at the helm of planning. Chief Haecker and PD Administrative Assistant Mary Bell have worked diligently to increase participation in this community-building initiative that is intended to promote police– community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make our neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live. Neighbors gather for food, fun, and fellowship, while also becoming acquainted with local and regional law enforcement personnel who work to keep Bulverde and the surrounding region safe. This year, the Bulverde PD was joined by representatives from the Border Patrol, FBI, DEA, Homeland Security, and United States Secret Service to make the rounds to all of the NNO gatherings to meet Bulverde residents and discuss any topics or issues that are of concern to the community. The City of Bulverde and the Bulverde PD would like to thank all of the Hosts and generous Sponsors who helped to make National Night Out 2017 another terrific success.

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November 2017

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Save the Date! The 7th Annual Holiday Hunger Run & Walk 5K is right around the corner! Get ready to lace up your running shoes once again for the annual Holiday Hunger Run & Walk 5K, a benefit event for Provisions: A 25:35 Outreach, the Bulverde food pantry. This is the 7th year that runners, joggers, walkers, and even a dog or two will set out to beat hunger in our community. The Holiday Hunger Run & Walk 5K will take place on Saturday, December 2, at the Bulverde Community Park. Managed by Athlete Guild, the run boasts a fast, flat course and chip timing. Participants of all skill levels are welcome to participate. There’s even a holiday costume contest for those of you who want to walk or run dressed in your favorite holiday attire! Registration is already available on the Athlete Guild website (www. athleteguild.com), just search “Holiday Hunger Run” or “Bulverde” to get all the details and to register. Sponsorships Still Available Provisions is also seeking event sponsorships from the community. All monies raised through these sponsorships go directly toward the cause of fighting hunger in our community. There are several levels of sponsorships available, each with marketing benefits and complimentary registrations for the run. If you, as an individual or with your business, would like to be a sponsor for the event, call Weslea Miller at 210.316.1940 or visit the Provisions website at http:// provisionsoutreach.org for more information. BUY,SELL,TRADE

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Twenty Comal ISD Students Earn National Merit, National Hispanic Scholar Honors Comal ISD continues to produce some of the nation’s top academic performers. This school year, the district is proud to announce 2 students were named National Merit Semifinalists, 7 more were named National Merit Commended students, and a recordtying 11 Comal ISD students earned distinction in the National Hispanic Recognition program. Smithson Valley High’s Jerry Fang and Ben Hanscom received the prestigious honor of being named National Merit Semifinalists. Of more than 1.5 million juniors in more than 22,000 high schools who took the Pre-SAT test in 2016, only 16,000 were named National Merit Semifinalists. Of the 16,000 semifinalists, 15,000 students will be named National Merit Finalists in February. Half of those students will be selected as Merit Scholarship winners, earning the Merit Scholar title.

“When I learned I was a National Hispanic Scholar I felt a lot of opportunities were opening up for my future,” said Medina Gil. “It was a good feeling to know I was being rewarded for all the hard work I put in during high school.” Superintendent Andrew Kim said he couldn’t be more proud of the distinguished students. “These students have set a great example for others in our district to follow,” Kim said. “They have achieved one of the highest academic honors in the country. Credit also goes to the teachers who gave these students the critical thinking and leadership skills to reach this esteemed plateau.” Smithson Valley High seniors: (back row, l-r) Micah Bruning, Jack Coonrod, Lucas Stewart and Jerry Fang. Middle row: Joshua Martinez, Alec Michel, Diego Cervantes, and Eric Dingus. Front row: Veronica Hernandez, Blake Halford, Ben Hanscom, and MacKenzie Foley, were named either National Merit Commended or earned National Hispanic Recognition.

Fang and Hanscom have a chance to follow in the footsteps of the likes of Bill Gates, a National Merit Scholarship winner in 1973. National Merit Finalists have the opportunity to earn individual scholarships from many corporations, colleges and universities around the nation.

Canyon High seniors (back row, l-r) Natalie Medina Gil, James Baugh, and Jacob Dussere, and (front row) Kaylee White and Kristina Yu, were named either National Merit Commended or earned National Hispanic Recognition.

“It’s such an honor to be able to share this with so many of my classmates,” Hanscom said. “We’ve always taken pride in being a high-achieving and competitive group and I think we have great potential for future accomplishments.” About 34,000 commended students throughout the nation were recognized as National Merit Commended students. Although they will not continue in the competition for National Merit Scholarships, the commended students placed among the top 5 percent nationwide.

Canyon Lake High senior Erin Dorman earned distinction in the College Board’s National Hispanic Recognition program.

Canyon High’s commended students are Jacob Dussere, Kaylee White, and Kristina Yu. Smithson Valley High’s commended students are Micah Bruning, Lucas Stewart, Joshua Martinez, and Eric Dingas. “A student recognized by the National Merit Program has earned a distinctive mark of academic excellence,” said National Merit spokesperson Matt Budreau. “This is an honor that will stay with them the rest of their lives.” Eleven Comal ISD students earned distinction in National Hispanic Recognition program, matching the district’s recordnumber total first achieved last school year. The College Board’s National Hispanic Recognition program is an honor in which students have to meet certain academic criteria. Students must have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale and must achieve the minimum required Pre-SAT Selection Index score (which can vary each school year). Canyon Lake High student Erin Dorman, Smithson Valley High students Diego Cervantes, Joshua Martinez, Blake Halford, MacKenzie Foley, Jack Coonrod, Veronica Hernandez, Lucas Stewart, and Alec Michel, and Canyon High School students James Baugh and Natalie Medina Gil, all earned National Hispanic Recognition.

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210-878-8032 The Front Porch News

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Angel Tree Project Kicks off for Christmas 2017 For most of us lucky enough to call the Bulverde/ Spring Branch area home, Christmas is a time of faith, family, friends, and fond memories of Santa’s visits. Unfortunately, there are children who live among us whose families don’t have the means to make Santa’s visits a reality. Family services in our area are somewhat limited, therefore the needs of our underprivileged children have been met by a variety of nonprofit organizations, businesses, schools, and churches–each doing their best to make Christmas dreams come true for our young ones. Each of these organizations has taken on the responsibility of serving the pocket of need that they are aware of but, unfortunately, some of the efforts have been duplicated for some while some children have been left out entirely. The success of these projects is due to the generous hearts of our wonderful community and to the giving nature of the men and women who take on this labor of love. To assist these dedicated organizations in meeting the needs of the children in our Hill Country, and to lighten the load of those doing it, a group of dedicated individuals, organizations, and businesses formed the Bulverde/Spring Branch Angels in the fall of 2015. Last year, we saw our first Angel’s Christmas Tree Project become a reality. Together with the Spring BranchBulverde’s Lion’s Club, we were able to put clothes, toys, and other gifts under the trees of 300 children and teens! Our program works with area public and private schools, Provisions Outreach, and Hope Center to identify children in need by having their parents complete an application and detailing their needs and wishes for Christmas. These applications can be found online at sbblions.com under the Angel logo or at area public and private schools, the Bulverde Thrift Store, Provisions Outreach food pantry, and The Loft Coffee Shop. Applications are due back to these locations by November the 1st.

To donate or for more information about the Angels’ Tree Project, please call Cindy Hurst, chair of the committee, at 210-771-7639 or visit the Bulverde Thrift Store in the Bealls shopping center on Highway 46W. *Angel Tree Locations: 4H Claybusters Ay Chiwawa Mexican Café Be Fabulous Boutique Bloom & Inspire Kinder Ranch Bulverde Thrift Store First United Bank Front Porch Bar & Grill Johnson Ranch Elementary Kathleen Banse State Farm Insurance Agency Specht Elementary The Loft Coffee Shop

Sunday worship services at 10:30 a.m.

People wishing to give this Christmas have two options. • Option one: Angel trees will be set up at several locations* around Bulverde, ornaments (with the wish or need of a child written on them) can be selected, the gift purchased, wrapped, and then returned by December 8th. • Option two: Our partner, the Spring Branch-Bulverde Lions Club places collection boxes around the community with a list of gifts that our children request the most. Gifts can be purchased and dropped back into the boxes and will be used to meet the requests of our children. Gifts for the children will be packaged together for pick up on December 18th & 19th. Parents will be notified of the pickup location prior to that time. If necessary, some delivery may be available. Our goal is to have presents under the tree and many more smiles on children’s faces come Christmas morning. Page 12 November 2017

The members of North Central Christian Church, formerly on Evans Road and at Indian Springs Elementary School, have voted to combine their church community with Hill Country Christian Church. The members of Hill Country Christian Church welcome the members of North Central Christian Church, and any others looking for a church home, into the full life of our church. Hill Country Christian Church will host a lunch at our church, for the members of North Central Christian Church, after their final worship service on November 12, 2017. We pray for the future of our walk of faith in Christ. Hill Country Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) Sr. Pastor: Larry Garcia, M. DIV., J.D. • Associate Pastor: Rev. Janie Harrison Address: 20845 TX-46 West, Spring Branch, TX. 78070 Church office: 830-980-2019 • Office hours: M-Thur., 9-3:00, closed Fri. Website: www.trymychurch.com • Email: debhccc@gvtc.com

Provisions Receives a Generous Donation In October, local residents and business owners Dan and Carol Hamilton donated a refrigerated delivery van to Provisions, the local food pantry. The gift of the van will make it much easier for the food pantry to pick up its weekly donations from Target, HEB, and Walmart. Until now, Provisions has depended on the generosity of volunteers to make these donation runs in their personal vehicles—which is a big favor to ask. These volunteers will now have the opportunity to use the van instead of their own trucks and trailers, which relieves much of the burden of the tasks. Provisions is also seeking new volunteers to help with these donation runs, to collect a weekly donation from a local retailer on Monday and Tuesday mornings. The volunteers we need must be physically fit and able to do heavy lifting, and must also have a safe driving record and proof of being an insured driver in order to utilize the Provisions van. Please contact Weslea Miller at bfpi@gvtc.com or 210.316.1940 if you have some time to share with Provisions. Even if you are only able to volunteer once a month, it would be blessing to the organization and to the neighbors we help.

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The Front Porch News

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A FA L L B U G Prevention is one key to staying out of the ambulance… Bulverde-Spring Branch Fire & EMS is dedicated to serving the community and emergency response is our primary mission, but did you know that ten percent of our calls are related to illness that might have been prevented. Flu season, like our Texas weather, is unpredictable as we never quite know when the season will hit, how severe it will be, or even what specific strain we will endure. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) identifies the peak of the flu season to be traditionally in January and February. However, it may begin as early as October. To prepare for the flu season, consult with your physician about receiving a flu shot. The CDC recommends everyone six months of age and older be immunized annually. In addition, you can take everyday preventive steps by washing your hands regularly, and making sure surfaces like doorknobs and computer keyboards, are disinfected often. Good hand washing protects against the spread of many illnesses from the common cold, to more serious illnesses such as meningitis, flu, and hepatitis A. How to wash your hands It’s generally best to wash your hands with soap and water. Follow these simple steps: • Wet your hands with running water — either warm or cold. • Apply liquid, bar or powder soap. • Lather well. • Rub your hands vigorously for at least twenty seconds. Remember to scrub all surfaces, including the backs of your hands, wrists, between your fingers and under your fingernails. • Rinse well. • Dry your hands with a clean or disposable towel or air dryer. • If possible, use a towel or your elbow to turn off the faucet. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers, which don’t require water, are an acceptable alternative when soap and water aren’t available. If you use a hand sanitizer, make sure the product contains at least 60 percent alcohol. Then follow these simple steps: • Apply enough of the product to the palm of your hand to wet your hands completely. • Rub your hands together, covering all surfaces, until your hands are dry. Anti-microbial wipes are another effective option. Again, look for a product that contains a high percentage of alcohol. Hand washing doesn’t take much time or effort, but it offers great rewards in terms of preventing illness. Adopting this simple habit can play a major role in protecting your health.

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What is an ESD? Emergency Services Districts (ESDs) are political subdivisions of the State of Texas. They may support or provide local emergency services, including emergency medical services, emergency ambulance services, rural fire prevention and control services, and other emergency services authorized by the Texas Legislature. ESDs are the only practical way to adequately support emergency services in many Texas municipalities as well as suburban and rural areas of the state. ESDs may impose a sales and use tax and/or property tax to support or provide these services. In addition to other powers, an ESD may also own real or personal property, enter into contracts, employ officers, agents, and employees, accept donations, adopt and enforce a fire code, and provide a fire marshal. ESD tax revenues may be used to hire full-time emergency personnel, contract with other entities that have fulltime fire and emergency medical departments, and/or purchase new equipment and facilities. More importantly for some areas, ESDs can contract with volunteer fire and emergency medical services departments and provide a stable funding source for these entities as well. ESD tax revenues mean more time to focus on training and the provision of emergency services rather than fund-raising and other activities for these volunteer fire and emergency medical services organizations. Further, the establishment of an ESD may result in a better Insurance Services Office (ISO) rating within the ESD service area, and lower insurance premiums for businesses and homeowners. The result is fair, evenly shared support from all the citizens who get fire and emergency medical from their local emergency services organization or the ESD itself. Three Emergency Services Districts (ESD) serve most Front Porch readers - ESD #1 and either ESD #4 or ESD #5. Most Bulverde residents are provided fire services under ESD #5, while Spring Branch residents are provided fire services under ESD #4. Most everyone in the Front Porch readership is provided EMS services through the support of ESD #1. Each of these ESDs have five Commissioners, all of whom are volunteers, appointed by our elected officials of the Comal County Commissioners Court to serve twoyear terms of service. ESD Commissioners are required to receive orientation and trainings in areas such as the Texas Public Information Act and the Texas Open Meeting Act. Commissioners attend monthly meetings, selected conferences, and some serve on committees that meet periodically. ESDs are created under Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 775 or Chapter 776 as a means to better provide

public funding for urban, suburban and rural emergency services organizations. Districts created under Chapter 776, Texas Health & Safety Code are generally designated for counties with populations of less than 125,000. However, the trend is to create all future ESDs under Chapter 775 since this chapter of the Texas Health and Safety Code provides greater flexibility and authority to an ESD and these ESDs may be created in any county in Texas, regardless of population.

Through these powers and stable funding, established ESDs have considerably reduced fire and medical response times, provided stable funding for volunteer and other fire and EMS departments, and allowed local entities to provide enhanced services, thus saving lives, property, and funds for local citizens. Bulverde Spring Branch Emergency Services has been recognized in the state of Texas as experts in medical care and fire suppression, as well as being demonstrated leaders in medical education and community service.

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Ribbon Cuttings

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Renewing Members Burger King Farmhouse Market Kids Helicopter Experts Inc. Jeffrey Law Firm, P.C. - Business Attorneys Middleman Construction Company LLC Mortgage Solutions Financial Moy Tarin Ramirez Engineers, LLC Premier Fidelity Mortgage Smithson Valley Counseling Center, Inc. Judge Charles A. Stephens II Sterling Pest Management Struttyâ€™s Feed and Pet Supply Subway Walmart Inc. #3056 Sandi Whitaker Wynn Everhard - Independent Representative for Slim City Coffee.com

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Bulverde Spring Branch Library The Chamber is honored to have so many dedicated and compassionate businesses in our wonderful area including the Bulverde Spring Branch Library who consistently demonstrates an ongoing commitment to the community and beyond. They have been a great partner of the Chamber over the years. Thank you BSB Library for all you do for our community.

Page 16 November 2017

Fall Chamber Market Day B/SB Area Chamber of Commerce Events Calendar November 11, 2017 Red, White & Blue Breakfast Honoring our Military–Active, Retired & Veterans, and our 1st Reponders 8 am–10 am Location: Johnson Ranch Fire & EMS Station 30475 Johnson Way, Bulverde, TX Brought to you by BAR-W & BSB Chamber

The 15th Semi-Annual Shopping event was another huge success! Many enthusiastic shoppers strolled the grounds and visited the wonderful gathering of 130 local vendors exhibiting a wide variety of crafts, gift items, décor, woodworking, and delicious foods all displayed in a festive Fall setting.

November 15, 2017 Chamber Monthly Power Lunch Sponsored By: Asea 12 Noon–1:00 pm Location: Bulverde Visitor & Event Center Member Only Event

Sponsoring the event were Kathleen Banse State Farm Insurance and The Heights of Bulverde. Special thanks go out to HEB Plus! Bulverde for the use of their lot, and for their continued support for our Market Day events over the last 6 years. The Home Depot always comes through with extra time and effort from their staff and we are grateful for the loan of the shuttle vehicles provided by Cruisin’ Carts, Mustang Equipment, and Willie Blank. And without all the volunteers who help us before, during, and after the event it would not be possible to accomplish such a great effort.

November 16, 2017 Business Networking Mixer Hosted By: Service King Collision Center 5:30 pm–7:30 pm Location: Service King Collision Center 5371 Hwy 281 N, Spring Branch, TX Member Only Event

The City of Bulverde is always present for the Opening Ceremony, and we appreciate the time, talents and service of the Bulverde Police Honor Guard, Mayor Bill Krawietz, Councilman Kirk Harrison, and all the Volunteers in Police Service (VIPS) who assisted as drivers and helpers to the Chamber.

Friday, November 24, 2017 Bulverde Christmas Lighting 5:30 pm–9:00 pm The Old Village of Bulverde Bulverde Rd @ Bulverde Ln Bulverde, TX

This time we were pleased to have performances from Rahe Bulverde Elementary Choir, Bill Brown Elementary Marimba Group, Diamond Dance Team, and Hill Country Stargazers.

Saturday, November 25, 2017 Small Business Saturday All day event Support your local Small Business By shopping local. **For information on any of the above events, please see our website at bulverdespringbranchchamber.com or call the Chamber Office at (830) 438-4285

Thank you to all the merchants in the Old HEB Shopping Center for working with us during this event along with Bill Brown Elementary for allowing the use of their parking lot for the many vendors and shoppers in attendance. To everyone who came and shopped with us, we appreciate your support and participation and the Chamber looks forward to seeing you at our Spring Event on Saturday, April 28, 2018!

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Page 17

The Buzz

From the Garden

Pollinators need you. You need pollinators.

How can you help?

Without the actions of pollinators, agricultural Pollinators need help, but we know how to help them! P2 scientists and economies, our food supply, and surrounding research partners that have been studying pollinators for over three decades have been able to show that conservation techniques work. If landscapes would collapse. everyone – home owners, local governments, national governments, and Birds, bats, bees, butterflies, beetles, and other private industry – made the effort we could change the future for pollinators small mammals that pollinate plants are responsible and secure our own. for bringing us one out of every three bites of food. They also sustain our ecosystems and produce our Habitat Area Counts natural resources by helping plants reproduce. Make room for pollinators on your land. Adding natural habitat areas into Pollinating animals travel from plant to plant carrying pollen on their bodies in a vital interaction that allows the transfer of genetic material critical to the reproductive system of most flowering plants— the very plants that • bring us countless fruits, vegetables, and nuts; • ½ of the world’s oils, fibers, and raw materials; • prevent soil erosion; and • increase carbon sequestration.

farm systems works. Farms that are closer to natural habitat produce more crop yield because they attract more pollinators. Adding habitat to farms systems works too – farms that have turned a portion of their fields into green space have gained back more overall yield. Home owners can help too! Home gardens can and do attract pollinators, and in many cases suburbs and cities have been shown to have more diverse pollinator communities than nearby wildlands. Pollinators don’t seem to be fazed by city life, if there are plots and patches of flowers they will be visited by hungry bees. Pollinator gardening near community gardens also increases urban agricultural yields. If you build it, they will come and help you get bigger and better crops too!

This nearly invisible ecosystem service is a precious resource that requires attention and support—and in disturbing evidence found around the globe, is increasingly in jeopardy. Pollinator Partnership (P2) urges you know how this system supports you, and how your actions can help support healthy and sustainable pollination.

Plant The Right Plants

What is pollination?

Don’t Stop There!

When a pollen grain moves from the anther (male part) of a flower to the stigma (female part), pollination happens. This is the first step in a process that produces seeds, fruits, and the next generation of plants. This can happen through self-pollination, wind and water pollination, or through the work of vectors that move pollen within the flower and from bloom to bloom. Who are the pollinators? Birds, bats, butterflies, moths, flies, beetles, wasps, small mammals, and most importantly, bees are pollinators. They visit flowers to drink nectar or feed off pollen and transport pollen grains as they move from spot to spot. Why are pollinators important? Somewhere between 75% and 95% of all flowering plants on the earth need help with pollination – they need pollinators. Pollinators provide pollination services to over 180,000 different plant species and more than 1200 crops. That means that 1 out of every three bites of food you eat is there because of pollinators. If we want to talk dollars and cents, pollinators add 217 billion dollars to the global economy, and honey bees alone are responsible for between 1.2 and 5.4 billion dollars in agricultural productivity in the United States. In addition to the food that we eat, pollinators support healthy ecosystems that clean the air, stabilize soils, protect from severe weather, and support other wildlife. What Do We Know About Their Status? Pollinator populations are changing. Many pollinator populations are in decline and this decline is attributed most severely to a loss in feeding and nesting habitats. Pollution, the misuse of chemicals, disease, and changes in climatic patterns are all contributing to shrinking and shifting pollinator populations. In some cases, there isn’t enough data to gauge a response, and this is even more worrisome.

Page 18 November 2017

Research has shown that local native pollinators prefer local native plants. Fortunately, P2 has compiled planting guides and an app that helps you select the right plant for the right spot. Plant the right plants on highway rights of ways, farms, schools, home gardens, corporate landscapes and on public spaces. It really will matter for all of us.

• Spread the word about the importance of pollinators. • Support Farmers and Beekeepers by buying local honey and locally produced organic foods. • Donate to support Researchers so that they can help fill in the blanks, the more we know the more we can help the bees! For more information, and the science, behind this article, please visit Pollinator Partnership at www.pollinator.org The Bulverde Community Garden is a certified monarch butterfly waystation promoting pollination. The native plant demonstration at the Garden showcases local native plants to be used in the area.

If you or your business or SCHOOL would like to secure a plot (at no cost), please contact Joanne Hall at jothall@gvtc.com. Donations gladly accepted. Also, interested persons are invited to attend the Bulverde Community Garden Committee meeting on the second Monday of the month at 5:15pm at the Bulverde Spring Branch Activity Center.

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November Events at the BSB Library Murder on the Orient Express Matinee Friday, November 3, 3:00pm–5:30pm Join us for a viewing of the old 1974 Agatha Christi’s Murder on the Orient Express before you go see the new one released November 10th. We will have tea and scones. Registration required. Lunch & Learn: Water Conservation Techniques Wednesday, November 8, 12:00pm–1:30pm Bring your lunch and learn something new! Landowner Management Series, Water Conservation Techniques: this will be a discussion on rainwater harvesting and how to effectively use the water we have, keep the water that falls, and how to use that water for the wildlife you have. Veterans Day Event Friday, November 10, 1:00pm–2:00pm Please join us in honoring our veterans during the annual Veteran’s Day Observance at Bulverde/Spring Branch Library, sponsored by the Friends of the Bulverde/Spring Branch Library. This event honors all who served in times of war and in times of peace. A reception in the Library will follow the ceremony. Thanksgiving Leftover Recipes for Adults & Teens 13+ Tuesday, November 21, 6:30pm–7:45pm Be prepared with recipes to use your leftovers from Thanksgiving. That way, when you are shopping for Thanksgiving, you can pick up the ingredients for the whole weekend! Registration required. FOL Annual Christmas Tea Thursday, December 7, 4:00pm–6:00pm The community is invited to drop by and enjoy holiday spirit with the Friends of the Library. Each year, the Friends celebrate the holidays by providing tea and other hot beverages, as well as an array of delightful treats. Everyone is welcome to start the holiday season by enjoying great food and companionship! p

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Veteran’s Day Event at the BSB Library The Friends of the Bulverde/Spring Branch Library invite you and your family to join them in honoring Veterans for their service. The annual Veterans Day Celebration will take place at the Bulverde/Spring Branch Library on Friday, November 10th at 1:00pm. A reception will follow the ceremony and will include a photograph opportunity for all Veterans and their families. Participants include Diane Zornow, the Smithson Valley High School Naval Junior ROTC, the Spring Branch Middle School Band, the Bill Brown Elementary School Choir, and guest speaker Lieutenant Colonel Christopher Stelle. Lieutenant Colonel Christopher Stelle brings 20+ years of Active Duty Army Experience as both an enlisted Soldier and Commissioned Officer. A product of ROTC, he commissioned from Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, Tennessee in 2000, completing a Green to Gold Scholarship. He also holds a Master of Arts in Security Studies from the Naval Postgraduate School. He has served in every key command and staff job to this point, beginning as a Scout Platoon Leader in the Armor Corps before transitioning over to Military Intelligence. Major Stelle served with the Joint Special Operations Command at Fort Bragg, NC., where intelligence is a critical element for the Special Operations Forces. He previously served as Assistant Professor of Military Science at The University of Texas at Austin. He is now the Chair and Professor of Military Science at The University of Texas at San Antonio. Artists Nick Watson and Fran Wojniak will have artwork on display during the month of November. Nick Watson, coowner of The Makery in Bulverde, comes from a long line of military service members dating back to the Revolutionary War. He retired from the Marine Corps as a highly decorated Chief Warrant Officer, with service awards including the Purple Heart and Bronze Star for Valor. Fran Wojniak is a Vietnam Veteran and served seven years in the US Navy. Sherry Sorbera will display a “Fallen Heroes Quilt” in the library foyer. During the month of November, names of local Veterans will be posted at the library. The Veterans Day Program is sponsored by the Friends of the Bulverde/ Spring Branch Library and supplemented with funds from Synergy Federal Credit Union.

The Front Porch News

Page 19

BAHS Pet of the Month Sioux is a one year old female hound mix, with a gorgeous reddish brown coat. She came to BAHS from another Comal County facility that asked for help when they exceeded capacity for intakes. Sioux is a sweetheart, very social and eager to meet everyone. Happiest when with a human companion, she would be a great companion for training classes or just a good romp and ball time.

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BSBAC Welcomes Andrea Jenkins The Bulverde Spring Branch Activity Center has a few new faces in the office. We are pleased to introduce you to Andrea Jenkins, our new Senior Outreach Coordinator. Andrea joined our team in the spring of this year. Andrea moved into the Bulverde-Spring Branch area with her family in her 6th grade year. She graduated from Smithson Valley High School. While at SVHS, Andrea played soccer and made the All-District Team for 3 years. After high school, it was on to Baylor University and Texas State University. She played soccer at both universities and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Communications. Andrea is now working towards a Master’s degree in Social Work and Business. Before coming to BSBAC, Andrea played semi-professional soccer in Texas and Pennsylvania. The team she played for in Pennsylvania was a faith-based program, which enabled her to travel to Cato Manor near Durban, South Africa. Fun Facts Two and a half years ago, Andrea married her soulmate Glenn. They live in a rural area with an array of animals that includes a Siberian husky and a rescue dog. Andrea and Glenn are expecting their first baby at the end of this year. As Senior Outreach Coordinator, Andrea oversees the Meals-on-Wheels program. She also has resources for people who may need assistance with social services. If you or someone you know has questions about our senior outreach programs, give Andrea a call.

About Andrea: • She is an identical twin • She is certified to legally close a TxDoT highway

To find out more about BSBAC, visit our website bsbac.com or stop by our location at 30280 Cougar Bend in downtown Bulverde.

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Page 21

Development Along Highway 46 Bring your lunch to the Bulverde Spring Branch Library on Tuesday, Nov. 14, and learn about development along Highway 46 in Comal County, one of the fastest growing areas in the US. The League of Women Voters-Comal Area invites the public to a discussion with County Engineer Tom Hornseth and members about subdivisions and transportation projects along this major artery between the two largest cities in the county. The brown bag lunch meeting is from noon to 1p.m. at the BSB Library, Meeting Room A, 131 Bulverde Crossing, Bulverde, TX 78163. The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan political organization that encourages the informed and active participation in government and influences public policy through education and advocacy. LWV never supports or opposes candidates for office, or political parties. For more information visit www.lwvcomal.org and https://www. facebook.com/LWVComalTX.

Bill Brown Elementary has Great Watch D.O.G.S. Bill Brown Elementary School Watch D.O.G.S. (Dads of Great Students) hosted its kickoff event Donuts with Dads in October. Watch D.O.G.S. served 432 donuts to 180 dads, grandfathers, and their students. Pictured are Watch D.O.G.S. Clay Vick (left) and Greg Skrobarcek serving donuts at Bill Brown Elementary Schoolâ€™s kickoff event. Also pictured are Austin Garrison and his son, firstgrade student Dylan, at the Bill Brown Elementary Watch D.O.G.S. kickoff event.

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Provisions Offers New Hours In an effort to better serve the community, Provisions: A 25:35 Outreach, the Bulverde food pantry, has changed its hours of operation on Tuesdays, to extend later in the afternoon and early evening. It has become apparent that some folks who may need the services offered by the food pantry are unable to get to the facility during the working business day, so Provisions will now assist clients from 10:00 a.m. until 6:15 p.m. on Tuesdays. The hours of operation on Wednesday and Thursday have not changed, and clients will continue to be assisted from 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. on those days. Provisions is hoping to be able to reach new clients by being open a bit later into the afternoon one day a week.

On the Cover In September and October, residents of central and south central Texas are lucky to witness the migration of the butterflies as they head south to Mexico. These insects are as beautiful as they are important as pollinators that help to perpetuate the cycles of the worldâ€™s plant life ecosystems. During the recent migration season, local photographer Sergina Flaherty was able to capture some stunning photos of a few of these butterflies, including Queens and Monarchs, which she has shared with the Front Porch News. Sergina is a resident of the Whispering Hills subdivision, having moved to the area in 1997. She enjoys photographing nature and sharing her images with others to enjoy. You may view more of Serginaâ€™s photography on her Facebook page PhotographybySergina and on her website www.photographybysergina.com. Thank you, Sergina, for providing a stunning cover for this monthâ€™s issue.

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The Front Porch News

Page 23

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