Helotes Spring 2019

Helotes Gateway to the Texas Hill Country

Spring 2019

The Official Magazine of the City of Helotes

Let’s Get This Party Poppin’

by Dan Goddard

Villarreal’s Ice House: Six Decades & Still Servin’

by Cynthia Leal Massey

Movie Nights: A Family Affair

By Mayor Tom Schoolcraft

www.HelotesMagazine.com

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Gateway to the Texas Hill Country – Spring 2019

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Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country – Spring 2019

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Howdy Helotes

ell, I’ve said it before, but I’m going to say it again—spring is absolutely, without a doubt, my favorite time of year in Helotes! I love to see all of the new greenery as the many species of trees start to show us their new leaves. Colors abound with the redbuds, mountain laurels, and other trees and bushes blooming. An almost endless array of flowers, including a bumper crop of bluebonnets, is giving us a rainbow of colors to enjoy. I’m pretty sure that the mild winter, combined with all of the rain we had last fall, was a big influence on all of the new growth we are seeing now.

Our Public Works crew has been sprucing up Old Town by putting new mulch in the planting beds, trimming the bushes, and planting new flowers in preparation for summer activities and visitors. They will also be revitalizing the demonstration gardens around City Hall and establishing new landscaping at the Fitness Park and Disc Golf Course at F.M. 1560 and Parrigin Road.

We also plan to start construction on a new restroom facility at the Park to better serve the many people who use the park on a regular basis.

On May 17, we will kick off the twelfth season of our Movie Night @ the Park series with Disney’s “Ralph Breaks the Internet.” Movie Nights are held on the grounds behind City Hall and have become one of our most anticipated community activities each year. Movie– goers begin to arrive early to claim their spot to watch the cartoons and movie on the big screen. Movie Nights are free and a great way to have fun as a family by listening to an outdoor concert performed by the Helotes Area Community Band, having a chance to win a free door prize, and enjoying free hot dogs while they last.

Many families bring their own food and drinks to enjoy a picnic dinner before the start of the movie. We also have a few food vendors on-site with a variety of good food and drinks for sale. Movie Nights are held on the third Friday of each month, May through September, so mark those nights on your calendar and plan to join us for at least one movie this summer. Our full schedule of movies can be found on our website at www.visithelotes. com and on social media, including Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Two exciting community events coming soon are the Spring Concert by our Helotes Area Community Band at John Marshall High School on Sunday, April 28 at 3 p.m. and the Helotes Independence Day Celebration at

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By Mayor Tom Schoolcraft

City Hall taking place Wednesday, July 3, with activities starting at 6 p.m. The Spring Concert is traditionally the first concert of the year and will feature works by Holst, Sousa, and Rodgers and Hammerstein. This concert is always the first of multiple concerts the Band performs each year. Our Independence Day Celebration is an exciting evening of fun featuring various activities and demonstrations along with a concert performed by the Helotes Area Community Band. The program will feature a rousing selection of marches and patriotic songs as a prelude to our fireworks spectacular set to the 1812 Overture as our finale.

This should prove to be an exciting year as we see huge improvements to our roadways with several TxDOT projects greatly improving the flow of traffic on Bandera and Hausman Roads. These projects are expected to reduce the congestion we have experienced for years. There is no doubt we are growing as new homes and retail centers are being built and more people are moving into this quadrant of Bexar County.

As difficult as it sometimes is to experience growth and accept change in our City, it is the inevitable result of living in this part of Texas. Having lived here for nearly 40 years, I have seen Helotes go through many changes while it has grown in both area and population. We have always taken these changes in stride and will continue to do so. We must strive to encourage our new citizens and businesses to embrace our traditions, enjoy our community events, and recognize our uniqueness as a suburban city. Helotes is, and always will be, a great place to live, work, and play and gives us every reason to say we are proud Helotians!

Have a wonderful spring and remember to “Shop Helotes!”

Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country – Spring 2019

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Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country – Spring 2019

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Inside This Issue

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Howdy Helotes SeeClickFix Helotes Villarreal’s Ice House Six Decades and Still Servin’

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Let’s Get This Party Poppin’

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Helotes Releases 1st Edition Fiesta Medal

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Helotes Map

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A Park for Everyone!

Fun and Exercise

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Movie Nights: A Family Affair 6

A Veteran’s Car Show Events Helotes Fire Department Welcomes New Engine & Ambulance

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Helotes 2019 Independence Day Celebration

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City Hall’s Resident Rocker

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Street Maintenance

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Coupons

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Advertiser Index

16 Corrections: Ready, Set, Print! – Winter 2019 EZ Printing is owned and operated by four partners.

The article published in the winter issue, listed two owners by name. Belinda Lopez, Elizabeth Mendez, Mark Mendez, and Christina Morado operate the print shop located at 12540 Bandera Road, Ste. 208 in Helotes. Contact the shop at (210) 240-8858 for more details about their current products and services.

The UPS Store located at 11844 Bandera Road is now under new ownership. Joe and Angela Garcia are the new owners; Dennis Peak, who was quoted in the article, is the former owner as of Dec. 1, 2018. Join us in welcoming the new owners on your next visit.

Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country – Spring 2019

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Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country – Spring 2019

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FROM AWARD-WINNING AUTHOR

CYNTHIA LEAL MASSEY Learn about the history of our unique town in two thoroughly researched and fascinating accounts of a town populated by hardworking pioneers, renegade Indians, elusive bandits, stalwart lawmen, and impassioned citizens.

Will Rogers Silver Medallion Award Winner for Western Nonfiction San Antonio Conservation Society Publication Award Winner AUTOGRAPHED COPIES AVAILABLE AT: Simply Yours Gifts & More 14357 Riggs Road Picoso’s Peanut Company 18620 Bandera Rd.

Also available from your favorite online booksellers.

Visit www.cynthialealmassey.com for more information about the author and the books.

Helotes Gateway to the Texas Hill Country

Magazine Credits Publisher

Louis Doucette | Traveling Blender, LLC louis@travelingblender.com

Editor

Andrea Wazir | editor@helotesmagazine.com

Advertising Sales

Janet Sandbach | janet@travelingblender.com

Contributing Writers

Dan Goddard Beth Graham Crystal Henry Cynthia Leal Massey Mayor Tom Schoolcraft Helotes City Staff Helotes Public Relations

Graphic Designer

Jennifer Nelson

Contributing Photographers Dave Scepanski Jack Smith Tony Wazir

Editorial Committee Members

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Ken Dempsey Louis Doucette Glenn Goolsby Cynthia Leal Massey Janet Sandbach Tom Schoolcraft Rick Schroder Andrea Wazir

Helotes City Council

Mayor Tom Schoolcraft Mayor Pro Tem Cynthia Leal Massey Councilmember Alex Blue Councilmember Paul Friedrichs Councilmember Bert Buys Councilmember Jim Meadows Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country magazine is published by Traveling Blender, LLC (Publisher) on behalf of the City of Helotes. Reproduction in any manner, in whole or in part, is prohibited without the express written consent of the City of Helotes. Editorial and advertising material contained herein does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the City of Helotes, elected and appointed officials, or its staff. Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country magazine, the Publisher, and the City of Helotes reserve the right to edit all material for clarity and space and assume no responsibility for accuracy, errors, or omissions. Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country magazine does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertisements or editorial, nor does the Publisher or the City of Helotes assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear in the magazine. Articles and photos are welcome and may be submitted to our office to be used in the magazine, subject to the discretion and review of the Publisher, Editor, or the City of Helotes. All submissions become the property of Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country magazine and the City of Helotes, and the submitter confirms that all submissions, including photography, is either the submitter’s own work or the writer / photographer has provided permission to the submitter to use the content within the magazine. All Real Estate advertising is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968, which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or an intention to make such a preference limitation or discrimination.”

Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country – Spring 2019

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SeeClickFix HELOTES

By Helotes City Staff

W

hen Helotians see something out of the ordinary, like a pothole or damaged sign, they would like the City of Helotes to fix it, but, often times, they do not know how to report the problem. Now, with a new electronic tool and citizen participation, fixes can occur even quicker.

The City has partnered with SeeClickFix to launch a new web tool that offers the community a quick and easy way to report nonemergency problems. Items, such as graffiti, maintenance requests, or parks and recreation issues, can all be reported with a few clicks. Citizens can track their reports to determine when the City receives the request and when it is completed. Furthermore, users can setup “watch areas” within SeeClickFix and be notified when a new issue is reported within their area of interest in the City.

“We encourage citizens to explore the new tool and become familiar with its features. It is the easiest and quickest way to report a nonemergency issue to the City,” noted Helotes City Administrator, Rick Schroder. “SeeClickFix Helotes is designed to give residents more flexibility when reporting routine issues or concerns to the City. It is important to remember that, during an emergency, citizens should always call 911.”

SeeClickFix is a public web-based forum for reporting nonemergency issues, which means that users of the tool can see all the reports made within the City of Helotes. The tool enables users to add comments, suggest courses of action, or add video and picture documentation. If a user prefers to make an anonymous report that option is also available. Reporting issues is the primary function of the SeeClickFix tool, but other business can be completed through the website and app, including paying speeding tickets.

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Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country – Spring 2019

The new SeeClickFix Helotes web tool can be accessed online at www.visithelotes.com or on a Smartphone app. “The app can be used on Apple and Android devices, so citizens simply need to visit the Apple or Goolge Play Store and search ‘SeeClickFix’ to download it,” Josh Mair, Public Works Supervisor, explains. “It’s free to access and, once the download is complete, the app will ask which city the user would like to communicate with. The user should select ‘Helotes’ and follow the prompts to begin reporting issues.”

Review the infographic to the right to see how SeeClickFix Helotes works. Watch for more information about the tool and how to use it on the City website at www.visithelotes.com, and follow the City on Facebook @helotes. Contact Andrea Wazir, Public Relations Specialist, with any general questions regarding the website tool or downloading the app at (210) 695-5916 or by email awazir@helotes-tx.gov.

The City of Helotes works hard each day to ensure that our community runs smoothly and embraces new tools and innovations, such as SeeClickFix Helotes. We hope to hear from you soon on SeeClickFix!

Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country – Spring 2019

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VILLARREAL’S

I CE HOUS E Six Decades & Still Servin’

By Cynthia Leal Massey

Manuel Villarreal with wife Nora Treviño, Nora’s niece Fredericka, and daughter Christine in front of the first Villarreal’s Ice House, 1962.

All photos courtesy of Christine Castro, except where noted.

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Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country – Spring 2019

T

he hill country northwest of Helotes on Bandera Road seemed the perfect location for Manuel Villarreal and his wife Nora (Treviño) to fulfill their dreams. His dream was to own a business, and hers was to return to her hill country home.

The third of seven children born to Nestor and Guadalupe Treviño, Nora’s Helotes roots were deep, and she was related by blood and marriage to many of the early Helotes settlers, including the Martinez and Marnoch families. Her paternal grandparents, Pedro and Manuela Treviño, donated the property for Helotes’ first Catholic Church in 1908, which burned down in 1924; that land is now the Helotes Catholic Cemetery on Bandera Road. Manuela had inherited the land from her parents, Felipe and Carmel Torres, who were among the earliest ranching families in Helotes.

Nora was born in Helotes in 1918 and raised on the family farm. She moved to San Antonio after eighth grade to complete her schooling and graduated from Fox Tech in 1936.

Riggs was eager to assist “Skeeter,” the little girl who once waited on customers for him and his late wife Kate. He showed the couple an almost 40-acre parcel that he owned just northwest of Helotes, situated between hills and with enough flat land to build their dream business.

In 1956, the Villarreals purchased the land from Riggs and erected a couple of small buildings—one for them to live in, another where they sold ice, sodas and beer, and another they sublet as a café.

Helping at the store was the couple’s daughter, Christine Castro, who was nine when they moved to Helotes. She remembers the ice machine in front of their store. “I loved that machine,” she says. “It made a lot of noise, but it crushed ice real well.”

The original building was on the west side of Bandera Road, then a small country road. After the County purchased several acres from the Villarreals in the 1970s to run the four-lane highway through their property, Manuel decided to move the store to

Born in 1913 in El Potrero, Nuevo Leon, Mexico, Manuel, who was a twin, moved with his parents in 1919 to the Houston–area. The Villarreal family grew to include nine children. Manuel met Nora at a dance when she was visiting a cousin in Houston. A longdistance courtship ensued for a few years until their marriage in 1942. After Manuel enlisted in the U.S. Army in January 1943, the couple was stationed out of state. They returned to Texas after Manuel was deployed overseas for the war effort. For his service in WWII, he earned the American Theater Campaign medal, the Asiatic/Pacific Theater Campaign medal with Bronze Star, Good Conduct Medal, and Victory Ribbon, along with one service stripe and three overseas service bars.

Manuel was discharged from the Army at the end of December 1945 and started his civilian life as a sales clerk at Joske’s, where he sold hardware and tools.

An entrepreneur at heart, Manuel started looking for another position that would allow him to be his own boss. He was drawn to the lush beauty of his wife’s hometown, and, since he loved to dance, he was particularly attracted to Helotes where dancing was a staple activity, along with farming and ranching.

He and Nora explored the countryside for a place to build an ice house, taking advantage of business from people traveling to and from Medina Lake, a popular vacation destination during the fifties. Nora knew just who to ask about available land: James Riggs, her former boss and local business owner.

Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country – Spring 2019

Nora and Manuel Villarreal, circa 1943.

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Villarreal’s Ice House has had a long history in Helotes, circa 1960s.

the east side on a more prominent elevation. With the money he received from the County, he was able to pay off his mortgage on the property and build the large dance hall and a smaller combination dance hallice house that still stand today.

Villarreal’s Ice House became a popular Saturday night and Sunday afternoon hot spot for people who liked to dance. Along with the familiar country and western tunes, Mexican polkas were a welcome addition to the music scene.

the U.S. Army during the war and appreciated the skill involved in shooting.

He was also an avid hunter. “For several years, law enforcement officers would come out and practice shooting out here,” says Christine.

“Then some guys started bringing out automatic weapons, machine guns, and our neighbors were upset about that. The liability was too much.

We had to close down the range.”

Manuel Villarreal ran his beloved business just shy of 50 years; he was one of the few original proprietors of only 19 ice houses in Bexar County Christine Castro runs Villarreal’s Ice House and Firewood In the early eighties, when he passed away in Manuel rented his property with her husband Angel. Photo taken February 12, 2019,

by Cynthia Leal Massey.

January 2006 at the age to local musicians for of 92. Ten years later, in January 2016, 97-year-old benefits. One example was the South Texas Nora passed away.

Solarfest held on Sunday afternoon in May 1982 with such bands as Blackrose, Stardust, Morning, Cecil & Several years ago, Christine signed the business Sylvia, Man Mountain, and Claude Morgan and the over to her son, Donald Castro, who left his mother Blast. The concert benefited Greenpeace USA and and her husband, Angel Arce, in charge of what the San Antonio Forum on Energy, popular nonprofits is now called Villarreal’s Ice House & Firewood, a during the time. family-owned bar and grocery store that has been in business for more than 60 years, the longest “We did this for about three years,” says Christine. continually operating ice house in Bexar County.

“After those events, it took us days to clean up the property, but Dad loved having the concerts.”

Cynthia Leal Massey is the author of several books on the history of Helotes. Visit her website at Another business endeavor was a rifle range. www.cynthialealmassey.com.

Manuel had been a sharpshooter when he was in

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Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country – Spring 2019

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Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country – Spring 2019

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‘

Let s Get This

By Dan R. Goddard

C

orn is special in Helotes, which derives its name from the Spanish terms elotes and olotes, or “corn on the cob.” But what’s the best way to cook corn? At the Helotes MarketPlace @ Old Town, an arts and crafts festival hosted by the City of Helotes on the first Saturday of each month, Charlie and Brenda Wheeler’s Party Tyme Kettle Korn and Eliot Kiger’s Roasted Corn let their customers decide.

The longtime, friendly competitors can be found in the food court at the MarketPlace where they were two of the first food vendors. Wheeler serves up light, fluffy, sweet, and salty kettle corn, popped in a big kettle over a propane flame. Kiger is known for his version of Mexico’s favorite street food, a roasted corn on

the cob with a husk handle, slathered with butter, mayonnaise, cheese, chili powder, and other savory add-ons.

Wheeler says kettle corn might be the world’s most perfect snack, but he had a hard time finding anything comparable to what he was used to in Missouri when he moved to South Texas in 2007.

“Kettle corn is totally different from anything you’re going to do in a microwave,” Wheeler says. “There’s nothing like fresh, sweet, and salty kettle corn. So my wife, Brenda, decided to start the business in 2008, and we’ve been going strong ever since. Now it’s more of a hobby, but it’s still a great way to get out and meet people.”

Traditionally made in cast iron kettles, kettle corn dates to 18th century Germany. Like many other foods at the time, popcorn was cooked in large kettles hanging over an open fire. Lard and sugar were added during the cooking process for a sweet and salty treat.

German and other European immigrants brought kettle corn to America in the 1700s. Kettle corn is first mentioned in the United States in the diaries of Pennsylvania Dutch settlers.

Old West cowboys made their version with honey or molasses. Popular during the first half of the 19th century, kettle corn lost its luster by the 1900s, but it made a comeback in the 2000s, partly inspired by historical events, such as Civil War reenactments.

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Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country – Spring 2019

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Party Poppin “People like to watch us stir it around and see the popcorn fly out,” Wheeler says. “I also make caramel and jalapeño corn. I like to make them beforehand, but the popcorn has to be done fresh. I can’t do it in advance because people pay for fresh.”

Kiger says that since he and Wheeler were two of the first food vendors at the MarketPlace, they’ve watched the event grow up around them.

“I usually bring four cases, or 200 ears of corn, and I’ll serve half to my regulars,” Kiger says. “It’s like family now, and I have customers whose children I’ve watched grow up eating my roasted corn.

It wasn’t like that at first, but the MarketPlace has grown, so there are now over 200 vendors each month.

I think the MarketPlace was designed to show people in Helotes that they didn’t need to go into San Antonio to have a good time. Now, we get people coming from San Antonio to have a good time in Helotes.”

A trip to Mexico, where he discovered street vendors serving roasted corn, inspired Kiger to start his business. “I

watched them cooking street corn and knew I could do the same and people would enjoy it,” Kiger said.

“But it took me awhile to learn how to get it right.

People are particular about their corn, and they’ll let you know if it’s overdone. After years of practice, though, I’ve got it down to where I could do it in my sleep. The trick is to feel the corn, and when it just starts to turn soft, that’s when it’s ready.”

Working with a custom-made propane roaster on a trailer, Kiger gives customers a choice of having their corn slathered with butter or mayonnaise. “But a lot of people don’t even want that,” Kiger says. “I have about a dozen different spices and other add-ons that people can use to customize their corn to their taste. But the real secret is fresh corn. I buy from a local, family-owned produce business, and they often have fresh corn shipped from Mexico. People like to watch the corn roasting, so it’s kind of a show.”

Helotes Releases 1st Edition Fiesta Medal

By Crystal Henry

I

t’s that time of year when you notice people proudly sharing their hefty collection of Fiesta medals.

The tradition of finding and displaying these little tokens of local love dates back to the 1940s when the reigning King Antonio of the Texas Cavaliers gave coins to the local children. The entire City of San Antonio is sprinkled with Fiesta medals, and, this year, the City of Helotes is getting in on the fun!

City of Helotes Fiesta Medals

A Brief History of Fiesta Medals

After the Battle of San Jacinto, a group of women hosted a parade of flowers to celebrate Texas’ independence. That original Battle of the Flowers grew into the Fiesta celebration we know. The 1946 reigning King Antonio started the tradition of giving coins to local children, and, in 1971, Charles Orsinger changed the game. Orsinger, the reigning King Antonio and local auto salesman, started punching holes in the coins so children could wear them proudly around their necks. That tradition grew into the artistic medal design we see now, and, in the 90s, the medals began to take the shape of local figures, logos, and pop culture references.

During Fiesta, medal maniacs attend events to collect as many medals as they can, including Pin Pandemonium—the largest event dedicated to buying, trading and selling Fiesta medals. All around the San Antonio–area, organizations, businesses, and individuals strive to create the most sought after design, with the winners taking home bragging rights.

The competition is steep, as people find ways to add movement and flare to their medals. Some medals have spinning parts, some have interactive pieces, and some even have lights and sound.

The idea to release a City of Helotes medal has been in the works for years. The idea has now become a reality, and the City of Helotes has released its very first Fiesta medal in 2019.

City staff collaborated to design the 2019 medal, and, after plenty of revisions, they succeeded with a medal that pays tribute to the best-known Helotes landmarks. Incorporating elements like the windmill and flags at City Hall, as well as a nod to our kerneled namesake, the medal is a true representation of our community.

In addition to the City’s medal, Fiesta enthusiasts will love the 2019 Shop Helotes medal featuring Miss Piggy—in honor of the Chinese Zodiac Year of the Pig. This medal features a gal who is ready to shop and she didn’t leave home without her favorite Shop Helotes reusable bags to collect all her treasures.

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Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country – Spring 2019

How to Wear Your Medals

The most serious medal collectors have gathered thousands upon thousands of medals over the years. Many people opt to wear dozens of their medals on a sash or a necklace. But, there are no rules about Fiesta medal fashion.

Some people pin them to their purses, bags, or sombreros, and others wear them on a vest as the ultimate Fiesta fashion statement.

Where to Find Fiesta Medals

There are plenty of events around the city specifically designed for Fiesta medal seekers. Helotes even plays hosts to one of the largest medal events in Northwest San Antonio; the Helotes Fiesta Medal Bash is held in March to bring the Fiesta spirit to the area. Shop Helotes partners with local businesses, like 46th Street New York Style Pizzeria, to give away medals with any purchase to help promote local businesses.

And, of course, they’re available at City Hall—while they last! There were only a few hundred City Fiesta medals made, so, if you’ve got one, hang on tight!

City of Helotes medals are available for a $10 donation; all proceeds fund community events, like Movie Night @ the Park, the Cornyval Parade, Jazz a’Round Old Town Helotes, and the Cowboy Christmas Parade. Fiesta medals are a great way to promote community spirit, while raising funds to support parks and recreation activities within the community.

Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country – Spring 2019

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HELOTES MAP

ADVERTISERS

AHNEW Physical Therapy Aunt Annie’s Blume Pediatric Dentistry Braun Hall Cheetalish

10483

Chrissy’s Dance Academy Congelato

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Cynthia Leal Massey

14889 Old Bandera Rd.

Doris Young & Co. REALTORS EZ Printing

Advertisers Located Off Map

Frost Bank HEALING HANDS

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For a complete list of businesses in Helotes, visit shophelotes.com.

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Helotes Overhead Garage Doors Janus Custom Homes Kinard Family Dental Maid Affordable Pope’s Cleaners Prestige Emergency Room CEDAR POINT

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HEALING HANDS

Vintage Reconstruction, Inc. Whimsical Annie’s Wild Birds Unlimited 21

A Park for Everyone!

Fun and Exercise

By Beth Graham

T

he Helotes Fitness Park & Disc Golf Course has become a favorite outdoor spot in the community. From parents with children in strollers and furry family members enjoying a walk on the newly paved walking trail to adults practicing their disc golf skills, there is something for everyone at this happening park in Helotes.

The Park, located at 10483 Parrigin Road, is now even more desirable with new amenities provided by the City of Helotes. Along with the walking trail, picnic pavilions, disc golf, and the opportunity to get out in the fresh air, the Park offers a range of both static and active fitness stations. Static stations include a climbing wall, balance beam, climbing stairs, vertical and horizontal ladders, chin-up bars, hurdles, situp boards, pushup bars, and a back extension board. Installed in November 2018, active fitness machines include a leg press, elliptical, chest press/lat pull, rowing machine, ski machine, and an abdominal rotator. Signs next to each machine offer instructions for proper use and repetition.

New QR codes will soon be published on all of the fitness station signs along the walking trail. With

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the help of two local trainers, Michelle Edwards of Camp Gladiator and Katrina Gonzalez of 9Round Fitness, we are producing videos that will be linked to the QR codes. Anyone with a QR reader on their Smartphone will be able to scan the code and have the opportunity to view a short informational video showing how that particular fitness station should be used to achieve the best results.

The park is a work in progress and many of the new amenities have been completed in-house by the Helotes Public Works Department. The nine-hole disc golf course was installed in 2010, followed by the static exercise equipment in 2016. The walking trail was completed in March 2018. Public Works Supervisor, Joshua Mair, noted that Martin Marietta Helotes Quarry donated base material upon which the asphalt was installed. The walking trail just Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country – Spring 2019

received an award from the Texas Chapter of the American Public Works Association as the 2019 InHouse Project of the Year!

The City of Helotes plans to install a public restroom facility within the Park. In addition, a large area in the center of the Park has been seeded with wildflowers.

All night security lights illuminate the Park at night for added security. These types of enhancements help the Park to be safe, functional, and beautiful.

Local Boy Scouts donated picnic pavilions and the information kiosk as their Eagle Scout projects. The information kiosk bears a plaque recognizing Eagle Scout Enrique RenĂŠ Degollado of Troop 814, and one of the picnic shelters recognizes Eagle Scout Blake Ryan Reed, Troop 484. We are currently reviewing submittals for two more Eagle Scout projects this year.

The Helotes Fitness Park & Disc Golf Course is free and open to the public Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country – Spring 2019

23

Movie Night: A Family Affair

by Mayor Tom Schoolcraft

M

ark your calendars for May 17, 2019, for the beginning of our twelfth season of Movie Nights @ the Park. The concept of hosting Movie Nights was presented to City Council on July 24, 2008, and our first Movie Night was approved to start on August 22, 2008.

concert on the patio behind City Hall with 17 band members before a nice crowd of moviegoers. Today, the band averages 60 members and plays 10 to 12 concerts each year, including Movie Night @ the Park, the Independence Day Celebration, Veterans Day, and two Christmas concerts.

Simultaneously, the concept of having our own band was in the works with the founding of the Helotes Area Community Band.

Shortly after we placed an ad in a local newspaper asking for volunteers to organize a band for different City functions, seven musicians applied and held an organizational meeting on July 22, 2008. They scheduled their first rehearsal for July 30, 2008.

Twelve musicians attended that first rehearsal and accepted the challenge to play their inaugural concert at our first Movie Night in August. They met that challenge and played a very successful

After much preparation, we successfully hosted three Movie Nights in August, September, and October 2008. We planned a more aggressive schedule in 2009 by showing eight movies before settling on a schedule of five movies in 2010. We have held to that schedule each year since, hosting Movie Night @ the Park on the third Friday of each month, May through September.

We learned a lot and made many improvements during the early years, so Movie Nights are enjoyable for attendees and our staff who are assigned to help at each event. Our first movie

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this year will mark the 56th Movie Night since our start in 2008. Movie Night @ the Park is, without a doubt, among one of our most anticipated annual events.

Movie Night averages between 300 to 600 moviegoers who begin arriving as early as 6 p.m. to find their favorite spot to spread their blankets or set up chairs for the best viewing experience.

A large, inflated movie screen gives the appearance of a good old fashioned drive-in movie.

Generally, a local business furnishes and cooks around 300 hot dogs. They are served to moviegoers for free, while supplies last. Many families bring their own food and drinks to enjoy a picnic before the activities start.

For those who don’t want to bring their own food, we have food vendors who sell everything from hamburgers to snow cones and sour pickles, while Boy Scout

Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country – Spring 2019

Troop 484 sells popcorn, candy, and drinks. The Boy Scouts meet at the Lions Club and have been at every one of our Movie Night @ the Park events since 2008. Their profits go toward troop projects and support the Lions Club.

Typically, each evening starts with a concert by the Helotes Area Community Band. Between songs we give away free door prizes that are donated by local businesses and include gift cards, gift baskets, and more. When it’s dark enough for good viewing, we show a couple of Looney Tunes or Warner Brothers cartoons, such as the Roadrunner and Coyote, Bugs Bunny, or Tweety and Sylvester, before starting the featured film.

Plan to join us this season for a great evening of free family fun at Movie Nights @ the Park. As we have said many times, where else can you go for a great evening with free hot dogs, an outdoor concert, a chance to go home with a free door prize worth $25.00 or more, and the memories of a great evening? Movie Nights are a wonderful opportunity to make new friends or visit with your neighbors and family. These special events help make Helotes the special community we are and serve as a great example of what “Small Town America” really

means. Movie Night @ the Park also helped Helotes be selected

by Bloomberg Business Week as the “Best small town in Texas to raise kids.” Plan to join us this season. We can’t wait to see you at the movies!

Follow the City @helotes

for details regarding theme-nights and special events.

2019 Movie Night at the Park Schedule May 17 June 21 July 19 August 16

September 20

Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country – Spring 2019

Ralph Breaks the Internet (Disney) Spider-Man, Into the Spider-Verse (Columbia) Incredibles 2 (Disney) How to Train your Dragon, The Hidden World (Universal) Dumbo (Disney)

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A Veteran’s Car Show Operation Comfort Supports Wounded Troops in Helotes

By Dan R. Goddard

F

rom new cars to antiques, Mustangs to Corvettes, and hot rods to low riders, the Ninth Annual Helotes Memorial Day Car Show is expected to feature more than 200 of South Texas’ best-looking rides, all while benefiting Wounded Warriors through Operation Comfort.

Helotes resident and longtime “car guy” Ken Felty says he was watching a TV show called “TruckU” when he learned about Operation Comfort’s handson approach to teaching veterans how to repair and maintain cars. “Operation Comfort was helping veterans at Brooke Army Medical Center (BAMC),” Felty says. “San Antonio, of course, is a big military community, and a lot of those guys are car guys, so I thought why not bring together the car clubs and veterans? And I knew just the spot for the car show.”

Felty is retired from the University Health Center of San Antonio. He is a founding member of the Helotes 4-H Booster Club and was instrumental in building the Helotes 4-H Activity Center. Helotes has the largest 4-H Club in Texas. Felty currently serves on the board of Operation Comfort.

another. The show has grown every year and now it’s one of our most popular events. Last year, we had more than 200 entries, but we never know until the day of the show what kind of cars we’ll see.”

More than 1,000 people are expected to attend this year’s Memorial Day Car Show, which will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on May 27 at the Helotes 4-H Activity Center located at 12132 Leslie Road. Admission is free.

Each car entrant pays $25, and registration will be from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. before the show.

The San Antonio Car Club, Street Machines and South Side Low Riders are just a few of the car clubs expected to participate. Best of Show, Best Paint, Best Engine, Best Interior, Mayor’s Choice, and Soldiers’ Choice are among the prizes to be awarded in 30 different classes.

Refreshments include Cajun turkey legs, hot dogs, hamburgers, sausage wraps, sandwiches, nachos, and Kona Ice. A silent auction and raffle will be held, as well. Entertainment features a DJ and miniature CO2 racing dragsters.

Janis Roznowski, a former flight attendant for American Airlines who helped fly soldiers in and out of Kuwait City, founded Operation Comfort in 2004 to support wounded, ill, and injured service members and their families recovering at BAMC at Fort Sam Houston and the Audie L. Murphy Memorial VA Hospital in San Antonio.

“I was a little skeptical when Ken first approached me in 2011 about the car show, but we talked a bit and he turned out to be a real car buff,” Roznowski says. “He said he had the perfect spot for the show at the 4-H building in Helotes, and one thing led to

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Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country – Spring 2019

Roznowski says all of the proceeds from the Memorial Day Car Show go to support Operation Comfort’s AutoMotivation and Woodworking programs for wounded, ill, and injured veterans.

“Most of the money is used to buy materials and equipment,” she says. “The car show really keeps the program going.”

Overseen by two wounded veterans, Operation Comfort’s 6,000 square foot shop–half for woodworking and half for auto and body work–is located on the Nacogdoches Loop outside Loop 1604 between Bracken and Garden Ridge. The program provides wounded veterans with the opportunity to learn new skills, while working on fine motor and gross motor rehabilitation in a nonclinical setting, Roznowski says.

“The program has been a big help to all kinds of veterans, from those with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression to those dealing with spinal cord injuries and amputations,” Roznowski says. “They learn how to weld and work on cars and do body work. They learn how to operate a saw, and some have built furniture for their homes. It helps them make the transition from being a strong soldier to being independent. They like being able to do things–to be able to build things. Returning veterans face a tough job market; tougher still when they are physically disadvantaged.”

Two car projects the veterans have completed are a 1966 Cobra Kit car, as well as the restoration and modification of a 1954 Dodge Power Wagon that was used as a Weapons Carrier by the Army.

“All of these men have been in combat, and one thing a lot of them have in common is a love of cars,” Roznowski says. “For example, one Vietnam vet told me that the whole time he was over there, he was thinking about the cars he wanted to own. It gave him something positive to think about for the future. For a lot of these guys, it’s more than a car show–it’s about their passion in life.”

Felty, a self-admitted “car guy all my life,” likes to restore old cars, such as his 1929, 1934 and 1936 Fords and 1954 Studebaker. “Some guys like to chase golf balls or buy a fishing boat, but I’m always looking for a car to restore,” Felty says. “The Memorial Day Car Show is a great way to support the soldiers who have worn the boots of war.

The Helotes VFW Post 7108 will provide an honor guard to present the colors. We always have a ceremony honoring our veterans.”

Operation Comfort Memorial Day Car Show

Monday, May 27, 2019 | 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. | 12132 Leslie Road, Helotes, TX Free Admission | Food & Drinks | Raffle & Silent Auction | Entertainment | On-site Parking www.operationcomfort.org | info@operationcomfort.org | (210) 826-0500 Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country – Spring 2019

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Events Recurring Events Mon. – Fri. | 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Casa Helotes Senior Citizens Center Congregate Meals & Activities 12070 Leslie Rd. | casahelotes.org Every Monday | 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Helotes Area Community Band Rehearsal | Location varies helotesband.com 1st Monday | 7 p.m.

Helotes Festival Association General Meeting | 14690 Bandera Rd. cornyval.org 3rd Monday | 7 p.m.

Helotes Ag Booster Club General Meeting | 12132 Leslie Rd. helotes4h.org 1st Tuesday | 7 p.m.

Helotes Planning & Zoning Commission Regular Meeting | 12951 Bandera Rd. visithelotes.com 1st Tuesday (Feb., May, Sept. & Nov.) Time varies Historical Society of Helotes General Meeting | Location varies historicalsocietyofhelotes.org 1st Tuesday | 7 p.m.

Helotes Lions Club General Meeting | 14690 Bandera Rd. lionsclubs.org 1st & 3rd Tuesday (Aug. – June) | 6 p.m.

Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPs) Group General Meeting | 13222 Bandera Rd. hhumc.com 4th Tuesday | 7 p.m.

Helotes Humane Society Board Meeting | 10672 Shaenfield Rd. hhsanimals.org 1st Wednesday | 7 p.m.

Knights of Columbus General Meeting | 13715 Riggs Rd. kofcknights.org 2nd Wednesday | 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.

Morning Mingle Chamber Event | Location varies heloteschamber.com

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2nd Wednesday | 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Ladies Night Out in Old Town Helotes The Bluffs at OTH | 14391 Riggs Rd. 3rd Wednesday | 7 p.m.

Helotes Economic Development Corporation Regular Meeting | 12951 Bandera Rd. helotesedc.com 2nd & 4th Thursday | 7 p.m.

Helotes City Council Regular Meeting | 12951 Bandera Rd. visithelotes.com 3rd Thursday | 7 p.m.

Helotes Masonic Lodge General Meeting | 11740 F.M. 1560 helotesmasonicfamily.org 4th Thursday | 6 p.m.

Puppy Hour Community Event | Shops at Old Town wine101tx.com 1st Saturday | 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

MarketPlace @ Old Town Helotes Arts & Crafts Fair | 14391 Riggs Rd. helotesmarketplace.com 2nd Saturday | 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Family Night @ Shops at Old Town Community Event | 14743 Old Bandera Rd. shopsatoldtown.com 3rd Saturday | 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Cars and Coffee Community Event | 14889 Old Bandera Rd. fbchelotes.org 3rd Saturday | 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Art & Jazz Night @ Shops at Old Town Community Event | 14743 Old Bandera Rd. shopsatoldtown.com 1st Sunday | 2 p.m.

Helotes Lions Club Bingo | 14690 Bandera Rd. lionsclubs.org April, May, and June Events April 20, 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Cars and Coffee Community Event | 14889 Old Bandera Rd. fbchelotes.org

April 20, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Easter Eggstravaganza @ Shops at Old Town Helotes Community Event | 14743 Old Bandera Rd. shopsatoldtown.com April 20, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Art & Jazz Night @ Shops at Old Town Helotes Community Event | 14743 Old Bandera Rd. shopsatoldtown.com April 22 | City Offices Closed Easter Break April 25, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Puppy Hour Community Event | Shops at Old Town wine101tx.com April 26 | City Offices Closed Battle of the Flowers Break April 28, 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Helotes Area Community Band Spring Concert Community Concert | 8000 Lobo Lane helotesband.com May 2-5, Time varies Cornyval Festival Community Event | 12210 Leslie Rd. cornyval.org May 4, 8 a.m. to 9 a.m.

NEF 5K Run/Walk & Wellness Fair Community Event | 12221 Leslie Rd. nisd.net/nef/5k.com May 4, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Cornyval Parade City Parade | Bandera & Old Bandera Roads visithelotes.com May 4, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The MarketPlace @ OTH Arts & Crafts Fair | 14391 Riggs Rd. helotesmarketplace.com May 5, 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Helotes Lions Club Bingo | 14690 Bandera Rd. lionsclubs.org May 7, Time varies Historical Society of Helotes General Meeting | 15060 Antonio Dr. historicalsocietyofhelotes.org

Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country – Spring 2019

May 8, 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.

Morning Mingle Chamber Event | 14743 Old Bandera Rd. heloteschamber.com

June 8, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Family Game Night Community Event | The Shops at Old Town shopsatoldtown.com

June 15, 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Cars and Coffee Community Event | 14889 Old Bandera Rd. fbchelotes.org

May 8, 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Ladies Night Out in Old Town Helotes Community Event | 14391 Riggs Rd.

New date!

Rescheduled due to weather.

June 15, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Art & Jazz Night @ Shops at Old Town Helotes Community Event | 14743 Old Bandera Rd. shopsatoldtown.com

May 11, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Whimsical Annie’s First Anniversary Celebration Community Event | 12411 Bandera Rd. #104 whimsicalannies.com May 11, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Family Game Night Community Event | The Shops at Old Town shopsatoldtown.com

June 8, 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Jazz a’Round Old Town Helotes Music Festival | 14391 Riggs Rd. visithelotes.com June 12, 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Ladies Night Out in Old Town Helotes Community Event | 14391 Riggs Rd.

June 27, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Puppy Hour Community Event | Shops at Old Town wine101tx.com

May 17, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Movie Night at the Park Community Event | 12951 Bandera Rd. visithelotes.com May 17, 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.

Historical Society of Helotes Gala Fundraiser Event | 15060 Antonio Dr. historicalsocietyofhelotes.org May 18, 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Cars and Coffee Community Event | 14889 Old Bandera Rd. fbchelotes.org May 18, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Art & Jazz Night @ Shops at Old Town Helotes Community Event | 14743 Old Bandera Rd. shopsatoldtown.com May 21, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Power Lunch – Digital Trends for Small Business Chamber Event | 14492 Old Bandera Rd. heloteschamber.com May 23, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Puppy Hour Community Event | Shops at Old Town wine101tx.com May 27 | City Offices Closed Memorial Day June 1, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The MarketPlace @ OTH Arts & Crafts Fair | 14391 Riggs Rd. helotesmarketplace.com June 2, 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Helotes Lions Club Bingo | 14690 Bandera Rd. lionsclubs.org Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country – Spring 2019

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Helotes Fire Department Welcomes New Engine & Ambulance

by Helotes Public Relations

T

he Helotes Fire Department has started welcoming new members of its vehicle fleet home! The new Engine 1 traveled from Nesquehoning, Pennsylvania, and arrived in Helotes on Feb. 6. After much anticipation, City Staff celebrated the new truck with a ceremonial “push back” into the Fire Station on Monday, Feb. 11.

Interesting Fact—the new Engine 1 can pump 1,500 gallons of water per minute. In other words, you could fill 12,000 standard size water bottles to accommodate the amount of water dispensed by the new truck per minute—that’s a lot of water!

Engine 1 is equipped to manage serious medical patients before the arrival of an ambulance.

Furthermore, the apparatus features a “rescue-pumper” design that allows Helotes Fire to carry all necessary rescue equipment within the vehicle. The capacity of the new design allows us

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to avoid dispatching a second rescue unit during an incident.

The Department is eagerly awaiting the arrival of a new ambulance, expected in mid-April. In an effort to reduce costs without comprising performance or safety standards, Helotes Fire decided to “remount” the existing Medic 2, which will become the new Medic 1. This means that the original box or ambulance module will be refurbished and placed onto a new truck chassis. The ambulance will be brand-new after all the upgrades are completed, and it saved the City nearly $96,000!

Helotes Fire is committed to supporting the needs of our community. Maintaining an updated vehicle fleet is crucial to that commitment.

The public is invited to visit the Station and see the new Engine 1 fire truck and Medic 1 ambulance.

Contact the Station Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at (210) 6953572 to schedule a tour.

Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country – Spring 2019

Helotes 2019 Independence Day Celebration

by Helotes Public Relations

S

ave the date! Wednesday, July 3, the City of Helotes will celebrate Independence Day 2019 on the grounds at City Hall located at 12951 Bandera Road. The festivities begin at 6 p.m. and conclude with a spectacular fireworks show. Make plans to join us!

Business owners, partner with us!

We’re in need of sponsorships to help make the 2019 Independence Celebration the best event yet.

Contact Andrea Wazir at (210) 695-5916 for details.

The annual Helotes Independence Day Celebration provides a full evening of family fun. The event opens with free hotdogs, apple pie, and Blue Bell ice cream cups provided by the City (while supplies last). At 7 p.m., settle in for a live concert of rousing patriotic tunes performed by the Helotes Area Community Band. During the evening families will enjoy various activities, such as face painting, games, and an inflatable slide.

Attendees are encouraged to bring hats, sunscreen, flashlights, chairs or blankets. The event is outdoors, so plan accordingly.

Food vendors will be on-site offering an assortment of delectable treats and savory goodies. Families are welcomed to bring their own picnic to enjoy at the event as well. Even well-behaved four legged family members on a leash are invited. The event is free and open to the public with parking available on-site. For even more convenience, take the free shuttle from the Walmart parking lot on Leslie Road for a short ride to the doorsteps at City Hall.

We can’t wait to see you at the Helotes 2019 Independence Day Celebration! For more information, call (210) 695-5916 or visit www. visithelotes.com.

City of Helotes 2019 Independence Day Celebration

July 3, 2019 | 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. | 12951 Bandera Road Free Community Event | Complimentary Shuttle from Walmart

Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country – Spring 2019

www.visithelotes.com 31

City Hall’s Resident Rocker

By Helotes Public Relations

“H

e is one of the nicest gentlemen that you’ll ever meet,” shared Belenda Parker, Development Services Specialist. And Belenda would know—she works alongside Ernest Cruz in the Helotes Development Services Department where they assist citizens and contractors with permitting and licensing. It’s true that Cruz is known by many at the City for his kindness and generosity, but he also has a special talent that has given him the distinct title of “resident rocker.”

Ernest Cruz has been with the City since October 2002. He has witnessed a lot of growth and Photo courtesy of Jack Leyva.

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change in Helotes, but some things stay the same, including the small town charm of the community. “When I started in Helotes, the office was smaller, but we all utilized the space and made it work. Locals would come into City Hall, and we guided the residents in the right direction and helped them anyway we could,” shared Cruz. “People were all very friendly and it felt like you knew everyone personally.” Dealing with the public and communicating with different people continues to be one of his favorite things about working at the City. “I enjoy talking to people.”

In his current role as Development Services Director, Cruz maintains comprehensive knowledge of the Code of Ordinances. He guides both residents and commercial customers alike in the processes and regulations. From building new structures to opening a new business or installing signage, Cruz helps people through the process. “His wealth of knowledge is very impressive. It’s always a great learning opportunity for me when I hear him talk about the history of the City,” says Parker.

The Code is designed to keep structures uniform—color, exterior construction, building height, materials—in Helotes. This helps the City maintain its “small town” character. In addition, the Code ensures that projects are being done safely and in compliance with State and National regulations.

Cruz maintains his Permit Technician Certification from the International Code Council to keep abreast of changes in the field, including building, zoning, and administrative international codes. The certification is renewable every three years, so Ernest takes continuing education courses to keep his certification current.

“It is important to increase my knowledge,” he said, “I’m responsible for disseminating accurate information to public.”

Ernest has always loved music.

He grew up in a musical family where both his father and older brother were musicians. Cruz joined his first band in high school, and he has fond memories of those neighborhood kids getting together to play music. It was during those early days that he taught himself how to play the guitar. Over the years, he has increased his knowledge through books, but he doesn’t rely on sheet music—he has learned a lot by listening. He loves all genres of music, including easy listening, jazz, and classical, but his main interest when playing the guitar is rock and blues. Cruz can be found regularly in the San Antonio area at various venues playing the guitar with local bands.

The stage isn’t the only place where you’ll find Cruz outside of the office. He is also passionate about biking, hiking, and running and can often be found at a park or greenway enjoying the outdoors.

“Running is a great stress reliever, and I really enjoy being out in nature,” explains Cruz.

On your next visit to City Hall, stop by and say hello to the friendly Mr. Cruz in Development Services.

You might be fortunate enough to see our “resident rocker” in action – singing and tapping away as he works!

Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country – Spring 2019

Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country – Spring 2019

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STREET MAINTENANCE

On January 24, 2019, the City Council adopted Ordinance No. 19-02 and ordered a Special Election to be held on May 4, 2019 on a proposition for the reauthorization of the sales and use tax for street maintenance in the City of Helotes.

The City’s 0.25 percent sales tax for street maintenance, also called one-fourth (1/4) of 1 percent (1%) tax, was first approved by Helotes voters on November 3, 2015. The tax took effect on April 1, 2016 and will expire on March 31, 2020 (the fourth anniversary of the date the tax originally took place), unless the City holds a Special Election to reauthorize the tax, as prescribed in Tax Code, Section 327.007. The sales tax is collected from everyone who shops in Helotes, unlike property taxes that are collected only from home and business owners in the City. This is not a tax increase, but the reauthorization of the current sales tax.

The proposition on the May Special Election ballot will permit qualified voters of the City of Helotes to vote FOR or AGAINST the following proposition:

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CITY OF HELOTES PROPOSITION 1 The reauthorization of the local sales and use tax in the City of Helotes, Texas at the rate of one-fourth of one percent to continue providing revenue for maintenance and repair of municipal streets. The tax expires on the fourth anniversary of the date of this election unless the imposition of the tax is reauthorized.

OPTION 1: A vote FOR Proposition 1 would allow for the continuation of funding specifically dedicated for the maintenance and repair of municipal streets for a four (4) year period taking effect on April 1, 2020 and expiring on March 31, 2024. The funding may only be used to maintain and repair municipal streets and sidewalks that existed on the date of the election to adopt the tax. It may not be used to build new streets.

OPTION 2: A vote AGAINST Proposition 1 would allow for the expiration of the local sales and use tax and decrease funding for the maintenance and repair of municipal streets. If a majority of the votes cast in this election do not favor the reauthorization of the tax, the City may not call an election on the question of authorizing a new tax until after April 1, 2021.

Leaving the ballot blank or voting for both Options 1 and 2 will result in the authorization of Option 2.

Where Can I Vote?

Helotes City Hall will be an early voting location and an Election Day location. Early voting will be held April 22, 2019 - April 30, 2019.

Voters can visit any early voting poll site in Bexar County and cast their ballot. For more information regarding voting, visit the City website at www.helotes-tx.gov/ news/2019-election-information.

Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country – Spring 2019

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Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country – Spring 2019

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Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country – Spring 2019

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Advertiser Index Author

Financial Institutions

Cynthia Leal Massey (p.8) cynthialealmassey.com

Healing Hands Family Care (p.15) 210-839-1860 | healinghandsfamilycare.com

Frost Bank (p.5) 210-220-6603 | frostbank.com

Prestige Emergency Room (p.15) 210-504-4837 | PrestigeER.com

Food

Birds

Preschool

Aunt Annie’s (p.35) Wild Birds Unlimited (p.37) 210-375-3611 | westsanantonio.wbu.com 210-595-3222 | auntannies.com

Primrose Schools (p.7) 210-372-1488 | primrosesonomaranch.com

Congelato (p.35) 210-209-8151 | facebook.com/Congelatolifeissweet Printing Services

Clothing

Cheetalish (p.39) 210-695-5520 | cheetalish.com

Garage Doors

Helotes Overhead Garage Doors (p.2) 210-695-8983 | helotesoverheaddoors.com

Dance

Chrissy’s Dance Academy (p.3) 210-695-1511 | chrissysdanceacademy.com Garden & Gifts

Dance Venue/Event Hall Braun Hall (p.15) 210-688-9241 | braunhall.com

Dental Services

Blume Pediatric Dentistry (p.8) 210-614-3334 | blumedentistry.com Helotes Gentle Family Dentistry (p.5) 210-695-2888 | drkeepers.com

Whimsical Annie’s (p.3) 210-560-2029 | whimsicalannies.com

EZ Printing (p.9) 210-240-8858 | ezprinting-tx.com

Real Estate/Realtor

Doris Young & Co. Realtors (p.33) 210-695-2861 | dorisyoung.com Re/Max Real Estate - Stevie Seitz (p.7) 210-382-2923 | justcallstevie.com

Home Builders

Services

Medical Services

Pope’s Cleaners (p.5) 210-695-4343 | popecleaners.com

Maid Affordable (p.9) 210-372-9970 | maidaffordable.com

Janus Custom Homes (p.40) 210-695-9770 | janushomes.com

AHNEW Physical Therapy - Ann H. Newstead (p.9) Vintage Reconstruction, Inc. (p.15) 210-833-8336 | ahnewphysicaltherapy.com 210-492-4171 | vintagetx.com

Kinard Family Dental (p.33) 210-695-1200 | kinarddental.com

For information on advertising in the next issue of

Helotes Gateway to the Texas Hill Country

Please email: janet@travelingblender.com 38

Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country – Spring 2019

Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country – Spring 2019

39

www.JanusHomes.com