August 2015

magazine AUGUST 2015

“When I found out I had a problem with my heart, my first thought was ‘where do I go?’”

Gale Pospisil

Former New Braunfels Mayor Gale Pospisil had a heart aneurysm, and needed cardiac surgery and rehabilitation. She chose CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Hospital – New Braunfels’ nationally recognized Cardiovascular Center, where more open-heart procedures have been performed than anywhere else in the area.

The Comprehensive Cardiac Rehabilitation Program is certified by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation, the highest level of accreditation a Cardiac Rehab program can be awarded.

Gale’s choice allowed her to receive superior cardiac care...right here in the heart of New Braunfels. Visit christussantarosa.org/newbraunfels to hear Gale’s story.

Proven. Progressive. Proud.

christussantarosa.org/newbraunfels

O W IN SC H ER TZ

Close to Home

N

EXPERT IMAGING SERVICES Baptist M&S Imaging is your comprehensive radiological services resource, offering a complete range of modalities including: • Computed

4

3

H 5

Tomography (CT) Scans

• Magnetic

Resonance Imaging (MRI) and High Definition Breast MRI

• Tomosynthesis

(3D Mammography) and Digital Mammography

MEDICAL CENTER

• Ultrasound

9

2

• X-Ray • Bone

Densitometry (DXA) Exams

• Nuclear

7

8

Medicine

• PET/CT • Joint

injections 1

At Baptist M&S Imaging we are committed to the highest level of patient comfort and care, diagnostic accuracy and physician satisfaction.

LOCATIONS DOWNTOWN 1. BAPTIST BREAST CENTER DOWNTOWN BAPTIST M&S IMAGING DOWNTOWN One Lexington Medical Building 215 E. Quincy # 100 San Antonio, TX 78215 NORTHEAST 2. BAPTIST M&S IMAGING NORTHEAST 8815 Village Dr San Antonio, TX 78217 NORTH CENTRAL 3. BAPTIST BREAST CENTER NORTH CENTRAL Stone Oak Professional Building 502 Madison Oak # 450 San Antonio, TX 78258

6

4. BAPTIST M&S IMAGING NORTH CENTRAL Stone Oak Professional Building 540 Madison Oak # 160 San Antonio, TX 78258

H

SCHERTZ 5. BAPTIST BREAST CENTER SCHERTZ BAPTIST M&S IMAGING SCHERTZ 16977 IH 35 North, Suite 220 Schertz, TX 78154

SOUTHEAST 6. BAPTIST BREAST CENTER MISSION TRAIL BAPTIST M&S IMAGING MISSION TRAIL Mission Trail Medical Building 3327 Research Plaza, Suite 108 San Antonio, TX 78235

BaptistMSImaging.com

WESTOVER HILLS 7. BAPTIST BREAST CENTER WESTOVER HILLS Westover Hills Medical Office Bldg 3903 Wiseman Blvd # 321 San Antonio, TX 78251 8. BAPTIST M&S IMAGING WESTOVER HILLS Westover Hills Medical Office Bldg 3903 Wiseman Blvd # 101 San Antonio, TX 78251 MEDICAL CENTER 9. BAPTIST BREAST CENTER MEDICAL CENTER BAPTIST M&S IMAGING MEDICAL CENTER 7888 Fredericksburg Rd San Antonio, TX 78229

To schedule an appointment, call (210) 228-XRAY (9729)

Editor’z Letter

City Council Michael Carpenter Mayor Jim Fowler Councilmember Grumpy Azzoz Councilmember Daryl John Councilmember Cedric Edwards, Sr. Councilmember Robin Thompson Councilmember

By Chuck McCollough, Editor

Executive Team John Kessel City Manager Brian James Executive Director Dudley Wait Executive Director Bob Cantu Executive Director Kyle Kinateder Executive Director

VOLUME 31 ISSUE 8 31 Years and counting...!

PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY Public Affairs Department Linda Klepper Interim Public Affairs General Manager Chuck McCollough Editor Alexis Souza Graphic Design/Art Direction Chris Matzenbacher Account Manager Lucille Sims Thomas Copy Editor Contributing Staffers Erin Matlock Office Manager Mary Spence Events Manager

Contributing Writers Chuck McCollough, Lucille Sims Thomas, Amanda Mercer, Allyson Ortegon, Claudia Pharr, Andrea Allinger, Kari Bridges, Jim Webb, Stan Leland, Taryn McGillivray, Aubrey Parke, Kiko Martinez, Ashley Festa, Rudy Arispe, Mike Harris, Chris Meek, Tom Lovett, Kaylie Kennedy Contributing Photographers Chuck McCollough, Mary Spence, Joshua Nolden, Lisa Green, Diana Webb, Bryan Tobias, Mike Harris, Beverly McCollough, Ross Dye, Marc Bane, Michael Carpenter, Bryan Nguyen, Joe Herczeg, Andrea Allinger, Kari Bridges, Catherine White, Elizabeth Leland, Rudy Ornelas, Christopher Matzenbacher, Samuel Rhodes, Linda Klepper, and Clemens High School photographers Amanda Mercer, Calvin True, Elysia Santoya, Alyson Garcia, Erin True, Kaylie Kennedy, Mike Bowers, Fiona Scoggin, Ethan Bookout, Terrell Mitchell, Mary Oaks, Cindy Kelleher, Aaron Davis Schertz Magazine is published monthly by the Public Affairs Department of the City of Schertz promoting city, community, and business activities. Our mailing address is 1400 Schertz Parkway, Schertz, Texas 78154. © City of Schertz, Texas The editorial office of Schertz Magazine is at 1400 Schertz Parkway, Schertz, Texas 78154.

Call (210) 619-1630.

Fax (210) 619-1619.

Website is schertz.com and schertzmagazine.com

OFFICIAL FINE PRINT Send queries about articles or photographs to Schertz Magazine at 1400 Schertz Parkway, Schertz, Texas 78154. For advertising information: Schertz Magazine, 1400 Schertz Parkway, Schertz, Texas 78154; call (210) 619-1630; Fax (210) 619-1619; email sales@schertz.com.

NEWS POLICY Schertz Magazine encourages submission of news and event announcement items. News and event announcements must include contact name and contact phone number.

All news and event items must be for activities that occur inside the Schertz city limits. Publication cannot be guaranteed. If you would like to submit an item to Schertz Magazine, email us at events@schertz.com or call us at (210) 619-1630.

The appearance of advertising in this publication does not constitute endorsement by the City of Schertz.

All products and services advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, marital status, physical or mental handicap, political affiliation or other non-merit factor of purchaser, user or patron.

Articles that appear in Schertz Magazine do not necessarily reflect the official position of the City of Schertz and does not constitute an endorsement therein. The appearance of any advertisement in Schertz Magazine does not constitute an endorsement of the goods or services advertised. Any publication of Schertz Magazine, whether draft or final is sole property of the City of Schertz and cannot be reproduced or distributed in any way, whether in print or electronically, without the express permission and written consent of the City of Schertz.

I

n the August issue of Schertz Magazine, the word vision is part of several articles.

Start with the story of Dudley Wait, the city’s longtime Schertz EMS director who is now Executive Director of Operations. In his new post, Dudley talks about his excitement in being able to help further implement the city’s vision for the future.

That vision includes being prepared for growth five, 10, 20 and 30 years out so Schertz remains the premier place it is.

Next, read about Schertz resident Wendy Kincaide and her family and their struggle with a vision disability that made school work hard for her two sons. They found answers that made a dramatic change for the boys and their school work. The family’s story was featured in a June 2015 report from the College of Optometrists in Vision Development.

Then learn about the SchertzCibolo Lions Club’s long history of vision screening and other community service projects in our community.

P12 Inside...

FEATUREZ

Wait Brings Experience 23 AACOG Programs Benefit 27 SC Lions Serve Community 31 Family’s Vision Answers 36

DEPARTMENTZ

And look for the story on the Alamo Area Council of Governments’ (AACOG) programs that benefit residents of Schertz and other local cities.

One program in particular is crucial for residents without a vehicle. Follow one family as they catch an AACOG van that takes them to a local store.

Also enjoy stories and photos about the Schertz Fourth of July Jubilee, the Schertz Police Department Junior Police Academy, Schertz becoming a Purple Heart City, and the city’s search for even more future water sources.

All that and more in Your Source For Hometown News - Schertz Magazine.

schertzmagazine.com

8 16

CIVIC NEWZ Updatez

40

CALENDARZ

45

COVER

magazine

The Lions also collect donated eyeglasses through boxes that are positioned in many local businesses. You have to read the story to find out what other projects the club does.

TALK OF THE TOWNZ Updatez Visionz / Chamber

Mayor Michael Carpenter, in colonial-period clothing, waves to the crowd as he walks in the July 4th parade.

AUGUS

schertzmagazine.com

AUGUST 2015

T 2015

5

TALKOF THE

Sweetheart Court Wins Multiple Awards For Float in Luling 8

AUGUST 2015

schertzmagazine.com

TOWNZ

The 2015-16 Schertz Sweetheart Court participated in the Luling Watermelon Thump Saturday, June 27. The float, with a 50’s theme, along with Court Members Miss Schertz, Morgan Gaitan; Miss Jubilee, Regina Deason; Miss Friendly City, Sydney Fischer; and Miss Sunshine, Ellie Kate Gorman, won 1st Place in the Visiting Float Category, the Judges Award, and the Grand Sweepstakes Award.

SZ

Schertz Magazine All Over The Map

ks Than for ’ us takin ! along

Schertz Mag on the move in Southern California Adrienne Segura relaxes on the beach in California with a copy of Schertz Magazine.

By the way, the Mag did not get sunburned.

And in England...

Emma Ruth and family and Schertz Magazine traveled to northeast of England recently and found fun things including what Harry Potter fans know as Hogwarts but it’s really Alnwick Castle of Alnwick, England, in the county of Northumberland. The family also saw one of the the largest waterfalls in England.

And in Honduras...

Terry Aikman and Michele Kelso took a family cruise to the Western Caribbean and a copy of Schertz Magazine to Mahogany Bay, Roatan, Honduras.

Take your copy of Schertz Magazine when you travel and take a photo of the mag and you in front of a recognizable place and send to events@schertz.com. You might just make it into the magazine. schertzmagazine.com

AUGUST 2015

9

SZ

Mayor Michael Carpenter and Chamber President Maggie Titterington place a copy of Schertz Magazine in the “Time Capsule.”

Schertz Chamber of Commerce Fills “Time Capsule” Chest In 2030 Schertz, someone is going to get their June 2015 Schertz Magazine a little late.

That magazine issue and other Schertz mementoes were recently placed in a special container by the Schertz Chamber of Commerce to be opened in the future.

“I thought about doing a time capsule as being a nice commemoration of our 10 year anniversary,” said Chamber President Maggie Titterington. “I thought we could get a container but we wouldn’t bury it but seal it and keep it within the chamber house, to be

10

AUGUST 2015

opened in 2030 for our 25th Anniversary.”

Chamber Staffer Jana Volitis came up with the idea of a trunk and asked Chamber member Ashlynn Rose if the vintage antique store had something like that in stock, Titterington said.

Ashlynn Rose owners Karen and Jim Ladewig got a trunk from auction and donated it to the chamber for the purpose of being the time capsule.

Titterington said Chamber staff placed a thank you plaque signifying their generous donation below the official time capsule plaque

schertzmagazine.com

which reads: “On June 21, 2015, the Schertz Chamber of Commerce celebrated their 10 year anniversary. In celebration, this time capsule was created.

Chamber staff, board of directors, Ambassador Committee, hYPer Committee,MAC Committee and various Chamber members have placed items within this capsule to commemorate this moment and preserve their place in our Chamber’s history. This capsule is sealed and will be opened on the 25th Anniversary of the Schertz Chamber of Commerce on June 21st, 2030.”

And Titterington was especially excited by some old

newspapers showing her as a teenager.

“An added bonus was that as I was gathering items in celebration of our 10 year and the history of how we became the Chamber, I opened boxes filled with paperwork, news-clippings and photos from 1975 on up,” Titerington said with enthusiam in her voice. “ It was truly like opening a treasure chest!

Especially finding that Jubilee photo from the Herald (newspaper) with myself and my niece as children. It just reinforced how wonderful it will be to open ours up in 15 years and see how much we have grown and changed,” the chamber president said.

Schertz Knights of Columbus Hold Appreciation Dinner On May 30, 2015, the Schertz Knights of Columbus Council 6358 sponsored an appreciation dinner to acknowledge the Knights and Ladies Auxiliary for their efforts during the past year.

Al Mantor Jr. catered the event along with his father and fellow Knight Al Mantor Sr., are pictured serving those who served our community. Schertz Council members and their families donated more than 12,000 hours of volunteer work and $68,000 to local charities. The outgoing Grand Knight, David Dumas, thanked the council for their contributions and looked forward to expanding these in the coming year.

SZ

12

AUGUST 2015

schertzmagazine.com

Jubilee

40 years of Fireworks and Family Fun The July 4th Jubilee in Schertz just turned 40 but didn’t act like it.

was Col. Jodi A. Perkins, Vice Commander 12th FTW JBSA-Randolph.

Instead of slowing down, the premier Independence Day celebration in the Tri-County/Northeast San Antonio area served up family-friendly fun, food, fireworks and much more.

Event sponsors Walker Partners and HEB, along with the City of Schertz and the Schertz Parks & Recreation Foundation, take great pride in welcoming the public to share the fun with local residents. Thanks to the many volunteers, both private and business, who helped put on this celebration of our nation’s independence!

Jubilee always has something for everyone – including a Patriotic Parade with nearly 100 entries and thousands of folks lining the route, a 5K Run, watermelon-eating contest, a dog race, craft vendors, barbecue cook off, lots of live music, and a family carnival.

The annual red, white and blue event is the city’s largest going back to to 1975.

Serving as this year’s Grand Marshal was was Lt. Col. (Ret) Charles E. Huff, Sr. and Honorary Grand Marshal

Highlights of the event: • 5K Run/Walk took place before the parade benefitted the Schertz Veteran’s Memorial Plaza on Schertz Parkway.

• Nearly 100 entries participated in the Jubilee parade, much to the delight of the thousands who lined Schertz Parkway, Main St. and Oak St. to wave, cheer and honor

•

•

•

the colorful entries Entertainment included the Schertz Senior Center Choir, Schertz Idol 2014 Cheyenne Gonzalez, River City Kings, MC & the Mystics, Dean Seltzer, TreMmr, and Gunpowder Soup. New to the stage were the Schertz Idol 2015 Semi-Finalists, vying for a spot in the finals scheduled for August 15.

The fireworks display rounded out the 4th with a spectacular show that thrilled thousands in Pickrell Park - many of them families with little ones sitting on blankets and enjoying America’s 239th birthday.

42 teams competed overall for the rib category and 32 entries for the beans.

Winners for the 2015 Jubilee Cook-Off (listed as Chief Cook, Team Name): Ribs 1st Place – Head Cook Clint Swindall, Good Life 2nd Place – Smoking Good BBQ 3rd Place – JW BBQ. Beans 1st Place – Head Cook Bubba Davee, Smoking Blue BBQ Showmanship 2 Hornz Up Did you attend the Jubilee?

Share your comments, thoughts, suggestions and concerns through email with our Event Services Team: festivals@schertz.com.

A photo slideshow of the event is at www.visitschertz.com.

Happy Birthday, America!

schertzmagazine.com

AUGUST 2015

13

Information Office Now Open!

Take advantage of pre-opening pricing with Founders Club specials before the community opens this summer!

Call (830) 483-4900 to schedule an appointment today.

Heritage Business Park 1650 Independence Drive, Ste. 103 New Braunfels, TX 78132 A master-planned community in Schertz.

ElanWestpointe.com

Models now open | TheCrossvine.com



Texas DADS License Pending MAG/SchertzTales/5-15

Photo: Charles Quinn

Dentures in one day.

Guaranteed 10% less.

Love Full Replacement Dentures* Starting at

395

$

Dental Implants* Starting at

Per Set

Comes With Warranty Expires in 90 Days * Not Valid With Any Other Offer, No Cash Value.

your smile!

1,400

$

Per Implant

Make Your Appointment Today!

Expires in 90 Days Price includes Implant and Abutment *Restoration Not Included.

Extractions* Starting at

Per Tooth

With Purchase of Dentures Expires in 90 Days * Not Valid With Any Other Offer, No Cash Value.

Thomas John Kennedy of Texas, DDS, PLLC · General Dentistry

Schertz/NE San Antonio Jake Duong, DMD Terry Lee, DDS 6051 F.M. 3009 suite 250 Schertz, TX 78154 schertzdentures.com 210-599-8700

Locations in Arkansas, Louisiana, Missouri, Oklahoma and Texas

dentalservice.net

49

$

Free Exam & X-Ray $

100

Value

With This Coupon Expires in 90 Days

Dental treatment doesn’t have to take a huge bite out of your finances. At Dentures & Dental Services®, you’ll get excellent care from compassionate, experienced dentists.

W h a t ’s m o r e , i f yo u b r i n g i n a treatment plan from any dental office, we’ll beat their price by 10% on any dental ser vice, including dentures (contact office for details). If you need dental treatment, don’t let the price hold you back. With full replacement dentures starting at $395 per set with warranty, you’ll love your new smile.

Chamber Calendar The Chamber-After Hours Mixer will be hosted August 6th from 5:30 - 7:00pm at Retama Park in Selma.

Join us for food, fun, networking, and a chance to win Chamber CASH! *General attendance $10, Chamber Members FREE!

The Chamber Monthly Luncheon will be August 18th from 11:30am - 1:00pm at the Schertz Civic Center. This luncheon will feature a legislative update from Representative John Kuempel as well as guest speaker Kelly Smith with LeapFrog Promotions on Target Marketing.

Please RSVP your attendance by August 11th. *General admission $28 and $18 for Chamber Members.

Biz Ed – Education for Your Business

will feature an expanded presentation on Target Marketing – Knowing your Audience, presented by Kelly Smith.

Breakfast sponsored by RBFCU. Class is from 7:30am to 9am. General Admission is $10 and Schertz Chamber Members are free. RSVP your attendance to Jana at 210-5669000. Class is limited to the first 12 responders.

Welcoming our newest members!

Triton Group at Directions Equity Home Loan 3820 FM 3009 #148 Schertz, TX 78154 (210) 846-4725 www.tritongrouphomeloans.com

16

AUGUST 2015

schertzmagazine.com

Serving cities Schertz, Selma and Cibolo, covering 6 counties and over 100 miles of businesses, the Schertz Chamber of Commerce is your source for networking, marketing and advocacy. To find out how to join, call 210-5669000 or go to our website at schertzchamber.org.

Paychex, Inc New Braunfels, Tx 78132 (830) 237-3496 www.paychex.com

Nice difference.®

Back to School Specials

FREE OIL CHANGE SHOCKS/ STRUTS SPECIAL

& Free Wiper Blades With Any BG Cooling System Flush Free Alignment & Tire Rotation With Installation of 4 New Shocks or Struts

Free local shuttle Free Wi-Fi Locally owned All makes and models Convenient location

Present coupons at check-in. Not valid with other discounts/offers. Expires 9/30/15.

Mon – Fri: 7am – 6pm

Sat & Sun: Closed

205 FM 3009, Schertz, TX 78154 (210) 658-1717 / ChristianBrothersAuto.com

Congratulations!

To the Members of the Schertz Chamber of Commerce for two years in a row of making us #8 in Chambers of Commerce of the area!

SZ

Mitchell, Jones Named Penshorn Scholarships Winners Area dentist Dr. Mark Penshorn announced that Katelyn Jones from Steele High School and Jonathan Mitchell from Clemens High School are the winners of the 2015 Penshorn Dentistry Excellence in Science Awards.

Each senior will receive a $1,250 scholarship to the college of their choice.

Jonathan, son of Stacey and Mike Mitchell, completed two years of IB physics and with his academic teammate was the winner of the Clemens “Energy for a Country” competition on energy sources held earlier this year.

An intriguing project, the IB class was challenged to create an analysis and implementation strategy for a mythical country using vari-

ous energy sources assigned to them.

“Jonathan is very driven and extremely knowledgeable.

His presentation team for ‘Energy for a Country’ was outstanding,” said IB physics teacher Gary Fletcher.

Jonathan will attend Texas A&M University as a member of the Corps of Cadets and a member of the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Marching Band. He will major in mechanical engineering.

“Jonathan is an intense young man who has put time, energy and intentionality into his science classes and who has the drive to continue to succeed,” Penshorn said.

Katelyn Jones, daughter of Karla Martz, graduated from Steele High School with many achievements in science as well.

She scored very well on her science ACT and was selected for and participated in the National Student Leadership Conference for Medicine in Washington D.C., last summer while also adding health science practicums to her high school course load.

“Katelyn is an outstanding science student. She genuinely desires to learn all she can, asks great questions and thinks critically,” said her APbiology teacher Keli Beck.

Texas Christian University in Fort Worth with the goal of becoming a nurse practitioner.

“Katelyn has balanced many school activities with continually outstanding work in science and health career classes,” Penshorn said.

Penshorn has given the Penshorn Excellence in Science scholarship since 2008 to encourage high school seniors to consider a career in a science field. Previous recipients are now in Ph.D. studies and pursuing careers across the country in fields such as chemistry and nursing.

Jones is pursuing a degree in nursing and will be attending the honors college within schertzmagazine.com

AUGUST 2015

19

Visit our 3009 Branch at 6000 FM 3009, Suite 206 in Schertz

Federally insured

by NCUA

* APR = Annual Percentage Rate as of April 1, 2015 subject to change at any time without notice. APR based on evaluation of applicant’s credit. Your APR may vary. Estimated monthly payment per $1,000 borrowed at 1.49% APR for 72 months is $14.53.

2838-SchertzMagAd-SSR.indd 1

4/13/15 12:30 PM

SZ Mayor Michael Carpenter (in colonial-era clothing) accepts a plaque designating Schertz a Purple Heart City.

Schertz Now Purple Heart City

By Stan Leland

The Military Order of the Purple Heart (MOPH) is a national organization of veterans who were wounded in combat and received the Purple Heart.

The organization assists veterans in their interaction with the Veterans Administration and the VA hospital system. They also work with Congress to safeguard veteran benefits and maintain a scholarship program to benefit Purple Heart recipients and their families.

Through the nationwide network of local chapters, MOPH provides local assistance, opportunities to serve the community and comradery.

Recently, Narciso Pulido, a member of the San Antonio chapter #1836 has been instrumental in getting Schertz officially recognized as a Purple Heart city.

“Schertz has been a big supporter of the military for decades, Pulido said. “This designation is another

demonstration of the city’s support and honor for those who have been wounded in combat.”

Mayor Michael Carpenter echo’s Pulido’s comments.

“Schertz has not only been supportive of the military but we have a large number of retired military and many of them have the Purple Heart, “ the mayor said. “Had it not been for those who stepped forward to serve in the military, our nation would not exist.”

It was fitting that the official Purple Heart designation took place on July 4 this year in Pickrell Park during the City of Schertz Jubilee.

After Pulido drove the “float” for MOPH in the parade, he presented Mayor Carpenter with an official plaque naming Schertz a Purple Heart City. The Mayor presented Pulido and other Purple Heart society members with a proclamation City Council

passed accepting the honor.

The ceremony was conducted next to the “Texas Memorial Wall,” a traveling exhibit that lists the names and photos of every Texas service member who has died in the Persian Gulf Wars.

In addition to supporting the national programs, the local “Alamo” chapter, which has almost 800 members, serves the local community by providing bicycles at Christmas for disadvantaged children. The local chapter raises money by selling barbeque plates and has distributed over a hundred bicycles each year for the past several years.

The chapter also provides limited financial help to veterans who are having trouble making a house payment or utility payment. The monthly meetings are hosted by the VFW at 2222 Austin Highway on the first Saturday of each month at 9:30 a.m.

schertzmagazine.com

AUGUST 2015

21

Get in. Get out. Get well.

sports and camp physicals!

Bulverde

Boerne

New Braunfels 337

19750 HWY 46 W Suite 104 1659 HWY 46 W Suite 160

1201 S. Main Suite 118

San Antonio

Schertz 78

1264 FM78 Unit 115

OPEN 7 Days a wEEk uNtil 8Pm 8am-8pm M-F • 10am-8pm Sat-Sun

Schertz AT THE CORNER OF 3009 AND FM78

www.UrgentCareOfTexas.com Where every patient is seen by a physician.

We accept bLUe crOss bLUe shieLD & tricare.

FOCUZ

FEATURE Special Section Dedicated to the Hard Working Employees at the City of Schertz

Wait Brings Experience To New Post

By Chuck McCollough

W

hen Dudley Wait moved from Florida to become Schertz EMS Director in June 2001 he expected to be here about a half dozen years.

“I assumed my stay would be five to seven years. I had no idea I would be here 14 years later. This is not just a job, this is my hometown where my wife, Cindy, and I are raising our two sons,” he said.

Wait was recently promoted to Executive Director Operations with responsibility for six City departments: Police, Fire, EMS, Marshal’s Office, Public Works and Municipal Court.

He succeeds retiring Johnny Bierschwale who supervised the same departments.

Wait has worked in all types

of EMS systems to include volunteer and paid, private and public, city and county, fire based and third service.

After graduating from Texas A&M, he took a position as a paramedic with Sunstar Paramedics in Pinellas County Florida. In his ten-year career in Florida, he advanced through a number of positions including field supervisor, Communications Center Manager and finally Operations Manager where he was responsible for the day-to-day operations of Sunstar, a large county-wide EMS system that answered over 120,000 requests for service annually.

Eventually, the volume of work in such a large system convinced Wait to return to Texas and to seek out a

schertzmagazine.com

continued on page 25 AUGUST 2015

23

O C T O B ER

2 0 1 4

magazine

magazine

magazine

NO VEM B ER

2 0 1 4

A PR I L

2 0 1 5

3893 Cibolo Valley Dr. #104 Cibolo, Texas 78108

Quality Dental Care in a Soothing Spa Environment Come in and unwind in one of our relaxing massage chairs as you enjoy Cibolo Dental’s first-class service.

CALL TODAY

SCHEDULE YOUR 210.658.7200 TOAPPOINTMENT!

www.CiboloDentalCenter.com · Mon-Thur 7-4pm · Fri 7-12pm

Dr. Angie Enriquez

I am a known quantity to many City employees and I think that will help make the transition fairly smooth.

FOCUZ FEATUREZ Wait Brings Experience cont’d from page 23

-Dudley Wait smaller EMS system ripe for development and rapid progress - and he found it in Schertz.

“Moving to the Executive Director role was the hardest decision I have made in my life. I’ve dedicated my life to EMS - 30 years’ worth - and I am passionate about it. But it is time to widen my focus and I like to challenge myself,” he said in his new office with things on the floor soon to be hung on the walls.

Wait has worked closely with the City’s police and fire departments and has learned much, which is a good foundation to start his new post. And he will be in learning mode with all departments under his

things. I am excited about taking my leadership skills into my expanded responsibility as the City faces upcoming growth challenges.”

“In the last three years Schertz has had dramatic

Part of the strategy for future growth is using the experience of staff members who have worked at cities that are where Schertz will be in the near future - population wise.

Bierschwale and Wait have worked together for 14 years and are good friend. “So, coming in after the man everyone knowns as “Johnny B” is humbling,” Wait said.

“He leaves big shoes to fill.

The City owes a big debt to Johnny and he is a great example of a public servant and for nearly 40 years.”

Wait is philosophical about his new position and draws on his EMS experience to explain.

“What I learned in EMS is that it does not matter who is on the ambulance at the end of the shift. The relief team is there to take the next call. There is a time for you to be on the ambulance and a time not to be on the ambulance. I am not replacing Johnny Bierschwale - I am his relief,” Wait said with a smile.

Dudley Wait ( far right) meets with officials from Schertz Public Safety departments.

purview, Wait explained.

“I am a known quantity to many City employees and I think that will help make the transition fairly smooth,” he said, adding he has a lot to learn and looks forward to doing that.

“I accepted this new position for several reasons - primarily because I do like to challenge myself and learn new

changes internally and externally as it prepares for the next 10 to 20 years - as we reach 50,000 population, then 70,000 and beyond. I completely agree with the vision City Council and the City Manager have laid out for our City,” Wait said. “And as the City moves forward like a ship, I want to help steer that ship on the course City Council envisions.”

“Schertz is playing in a bigger league and our staff members who have been at cities a bit larger have valuable experience to share of what’s to come -- they have been through it. No two cities are the same but the growth challenges they face can be similar and lessons can be learned.”

While Wait is not one of

continued on page 26 schertzmagazine.com

AUGUST 2015

25

FOCUZ FEATUREZ Wait Brings Experience cont’d from page 25 those city staff recently hired from a large city, he has experience learned from running an organization serving a larger population than just Schertz.

During his tenure at Schertz EMS the department went from serving 75,000 to 120,000 residents in eight cities across three counties.

“I have seen that kind of growth in EMS and I want to use that experience to help our City Department heads and their staffs prepare for

26

AUGUST 2015

the future,” he said.

“The City of Schertz is such a fabulous place and I cannot believe the incredible blessing I have been given to be able to help guide this city into the future. As I get used to this new position, I continue to be amazed at the team of professionals that have chosen to dedicate their lives to providing a tremendous city for our citizens to live in and enjoy. I can’t wait to see what the future brings,” said.

schertzmagazine.com

FEATUREZ

Torrie Boord (in wheelchair) is uplifted into an ART vehicle for a ride to a Schertz store. Her husband, James, waits nearby.

AACOG Programs Helping Area Residents

By Lucille Sims Thomas

J

ust like everyone else, James and Torrie Boord need to go grocery shopping on a regular basis.

But without a car, the Schertz residents can’t get necessary household chore done quite as easily as most folks. But thanks to the Alamo Area Council of Governments’ (AACOG) transportation service, the Boords can get a ride to go grocery shopping by just making a phone call.

Established in 1967, the agency exists to help better

the lives of all residents in its region, which includes Atascosa, Bandera, Bexar, Comal, Frio, Gillespie, Guadalupe, Karnes, Kendall, Kerr, Medina, McMullen, and Wilson counties. The agency offers a multitude of assistance programs to aid low-income and elderly residents in the counties it covers.

AACOG offers a wide variety of programs from free rides to medical appointments to carpooling assistance to weatherization of houses for those who can’t afford to have it done.

The Boords use Alamo Regional Transit (ART), which provides public transportation bus service to all residents in the service region. ART offers curbto-curb transportation and door to door service if additional mobility assistance is needed.

ART’s hours of operation are Monday through Friday 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. There are no eligibility requirements for ART and anybody can ride, but the organization’s priority is low-income people, senior citizens, veterans

and those with medical issues. No proof of income is required.

The Boords have been using ART to go grocery shopping twice a month for three years. They found out about the service through Medicaid and can’t say enough good things about it.

“We don’t have transportation so it’s a real blessing to us,” James Boord said.

They usually call a couple of weeks in advance to schedule their grocery shopping trips and highly recommend the

continued on page 28 schertzmagazine.com

AUGUST 2015

27

PROVIDENCE COMMUNITY CHURCH

Proclaiming the Gospel, Embracing the Doctrines of Grace

Proclaiming the Gospel, Embracing the Doctrines of Grace

Join Us this Sunday Sunday School: 9:30 am | Worship Service: 11:00 Currently Meeting at the Schertz Civic Center: 1400 Schertz Pkwy, Building #5 Schertz, TX 78154 210-858-8503 | pcc_schertz@yahoo.com

www.pcc-schertz.com A reformed church and member of the SBC.

service to others. “We’re very happy with them. Their drivers are on time almost all the time, and it’s just a real good service,” he said.

ART is state and federally funded and that allows it to offer very low fares. The fares are $2 one way within the city of Schertz and $6 one way if the destination is within the same county but outside of Schertz.

Riders can schedule their rides online or by phone.

For more information on Alamo Regional Transit, visit aacog.com/art.

And with San Antonio being Military City, assisting veterans is something AACOG is proud to do. Transportation has been identified as a major barrier for many veterans in getting to and from the places that offer their benefits and services. To help with this, AACOG has a program to assist veterans of any age and their family members with transportation.

Alamo Call-A-Ride-4-Vets program is available throughout the 13 county area. It is not based on income

FEATUREZ AACOG Programs

AACOG programs available to Schertz residents include ride sharing.

cont’d from page 27 For more information on this program, visit aacog.com/ veterans.

Also, AACOG can alert residents and businesses to bad air quality days and help Schertz residents find alternative transportation options. On its website, the agency offers commuters the opportunity to sign up with a program called NuRide and explore ride solutions within the region.

Riders who want to carpool but don’t have a carpool partner can find others living in the same area who would like to carpool and are going in the same direction by using NuRide.

and there is no cost to the veteran or veteran’s family members (this includes spouses, children under 18 and surviving spouses) to use the service.

If a veteran is not in need of a ride right now but relies on others for transportation, the agency suggests registering just in case the normal mode of transportation falls through. By already being registered, it will be easier for the program to step in and start providing transportation.

On the NuRide website, local residents can get rewards by tracking their use of alternative methods of transportation such as carpooling, taking the bus or train, telecommuting, biking and walking. The rewards are from numerous local businesses and are coupons for discounts at those businesses. For more information on NuRide, visit nuride.com.

According to its website, AACOG’s Natural Resources Department addresses air quality issues in the region by bringing together stakeholders from all interests — government, industry, business, and residents — to develop

air pollution reduction plans that benefit residents’ quality of life. For more information on air quality and natural resources, visit aacog.com/air.

To receive air quality health alerts, visit aacog.com/join. aspx.

AACOG’s Alamo Area Agency on Aging covers the 12 rural counties other than Bexar that the agency services, including Guadalupe and Comal counties, which along with Bexar County encompass the city of Schertz. AACOG also houses the Bexar Area Agency on Aging, which provides services within Bexar County.

The Alamo Area Agency on Aging assists adults who are 60 years and older and caregivers who are 55 or older if they are caring for a child 18 or younger. There are no costs for the agency’s services but they target people with the greatest socioeconomic need. Some of its services require an assessment by someone from the agency. The Alamo Area Agency on Aging has an ombudsman program for residents living in nursing facilities. An advocate visits every nursing home in the

agency’s 12-county area once a month and helps with complaint resolution.

The agency also offers a service called care coordination, which seeks to arrange for any services a senior might need within their home.

It’s one of the services that requires an assessment.

For more information on the Alamo Area Agency on Aging, call (866)-231-4922 or visit alamoaging.org. Residents in Bexar County can visit bexaraging.org.

AACOG’s Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP), according to its website, is designed to aid low-income people, particularly seniors and handicapped individuals, with the high cost of energy through the installation of conservation measures at no cost to applicants.

The program does not take care of major home repairs but can help lower the amount of energy used in a home by improving its thermal boundary, WAP’s website states.

For more information on WAP, visit aacog.com/wap.

schertzmagazine.com

AUGUST 2015

29

FEATUREZ

Texas Lions Camp in Kerrville is supported by SC-Lions Club.

Schertz-Cibolo Lions Club Serving The Community

By Jim and Diana Webb

T

he Schertz-Cibolo Lions Club is a vibrant organization of men and women whose members are focused on service to the community --- and having a lot of fun along the way!

Though the club is a relatively new one, it already has made a significant impact in our local area.

Amy Quesenberry, the current president, and Ron Lajoie, the president-elect, proudly explained to us the

many activities the club is involved with annually.

One of their biggest projects, co-sponsored by HEB, is Easter in the Park, held in Pickrell Park in Schertz. This is a free event, and provides eggs, prizes and games for children in five separate age groups, from “crawlers� to ages 8-10. The Easter bunny is there to add even more excitement for the kids.

Also, several vendors set up booths and provide refresh-

ments at a reduced cost to participants. This year there were hundreds of children (and their parents) who turned out for this family fun event.

Another major focus of the Lions Club, both locally and internationally, is vision assistance. That is manifested in the community through two main endeavors. One is through the collection of donated eyeglasses. Boxes for this purpose are positioned

in many area business offices and the local club collects thousands of eyeglasses annually thanks to the generosity of area residents.

Periodically, the collected eyeglasses are shipped off to a processing center in Midland. At this processing center, the glasses are sorted and the prescription for each is recorded. The prescriptions then are entered into an electronic database that can be searched by any club

continued on page 32 schertzmagazine.com

AUGUST 2015

31

FEATUREZ SC Lions Club cont’d from page 31

in the world. When a club finds a prescription match, it requests that pair of glasses, which then are shipped to the requesting club free of charge.

The second major vision related project is vision screening. The club conducts

parents if the results indicate corrective action is warranted.

These screenings are provided free and are conducted at several locations in the community throughout the year, including at Easter in the Park. The club members who conduct these screenings have been trained to use

Easter in the park

screenings of children, some as young as six months old, who are not yet able to read a vision chart, using a Welch Allyn Spot vision screener.

This handheld device enables operators to conduct a vision screening in a non-threatening manner, from up to three feet away from the child. The device screens both eyes at once and provides a print-out for

32

AUGUST 2015

the device properly, and the devices are kept calibrated and properly maintained.

The Schertz-Cibolo club also has arrangements with some local pediatric optometrists who assist parents with following up on their child’s vision needs. The club also provides financial assistance to parents as needed.

schertzmagazine.com

The Texas Lions Camp is yet another major event supported by the Schertz-Cibolo club. The camp is held each summer at a site in Kerrville.

The camp is for students, generally ages 7-16, who have physical disabilities, Downs Syndrome, cancer, Type 1 diabetes, and certain other specified physical and medical conditions. The one-week sessions are free to attendees. Last year nearly 1,500 students attended the camp.

Each week is designated for those with a specified condition/disability. While there are permanent camp staff members, the session counselors are college students who come from all over the world. Typically, the counselor to student ratio is 1-1!

One of the ways the various state Lions clubs support the camp is by providing scholarships for the counselors. This year, the SchertzCibolo club awarded $5,000 in scholarships for selected counselors. Another manner of support takes place each spring. Over a five-week period, member volunteers help the camp staff with the various maintenance projects needed to make sure the camp is ready when the first campers arrive in June.

Two years ago, the club, in partnership with Schertz library, initiated the “read a

1,000 books before kindergarten” project. It’s intended to improve literacy and to promote reading within the community. The objective is to have parents read aloud to their children, starting by age 1, one thousand books before the child enters kindergarten. Lajoie reports there already are several families who have read hundreds of books.

The club also supports RACAP, the Randolph Area Christian Assistance Program, founded by church and civic leaders to address unmet needs within the local area. Among other things, club members prepare and

MOBILE BANKING. ONLINE BANKING. AND GOOD OL’ FACE-TO-FACE BANKING. dividuals and organizations, and involvement by area residents in buying tickets, attending events, and participating in live and silent auctions. Among the most popular items purchased in the auctions at casino night were memorabilia from professional sports teams.

Revitalizing Local Park

deliver holiday food baskets to deserving families, as well as provide and deliver Christmas presents for designated children.

To obtain the financial resources needed to enable the club to provide this variety of services to the community, fundraising is important. The Schertz-Cibolo club’s primary fundraising activity is its annual casino night.

This year’s event was held on April 24 at Schertz Civic Center and was very successful thanks to the combined efforts of club members, donations from generous in-

Another key element in maintaining and proliferating a vibrant organization is attracting and motivating new members. One way the Lions do this is through establishing Leo Clubs in high schools. Leo is an acronym for leadership, equality, and opportunity. The SchertzCibolo club this year sponsored a Leo club at Clemens High School and is working to start one at Steele High School. Members of the Leo club and the Lions club work together on projects, getting the students more involved in service to the community.

The Schertz-Cibolo Lions Club meets at the Schertz Senior Center at noon on the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month. Members bring their own lunches, and the meeting lasts about an hour. People interested in learning more about the Lions club and its activities are invited to come to a meeting.

You also can keep up with club activities by “liking” them on Facebook.

Frost is here whenever and wherever you need us, with the technology you want and the service you deserve.

frostbank.com (877) 862-4900

MEMBER FDIC

80% of Learning is Visual Be sure your child has an annual eye exam

Leigha M. Nielsen, OD 17460 IH 35 North, Suite 412 Schertz, TX 78154

210.590.2482

www.schertztso.com

Caring for the Eyes of Texas Since 1936

You Are Invited!

In honor of the support we’ve received from this great community, we will be hosting a 3-Day Special Anniversary Hearing Event

August 11th - 13th Please join us in celebrating our 2nd year in business!

Two years ago, Doss Audiology & Hearing Center came to Schertz with the message of Better Hearing Healthcare, and you heard us loud and clear!

Thank you Schertz for two sound years!!

To celebrate our second anniversary, we are offering the following FREE services: • FREE hearing test and consultation. aturing a Proudly fe Starkey full line of oducts, Hearing pr o Made e Hal th g in ud incl d. hearing ai for iPhone

• FREE clean and check of current hearing aids.

No risk trial period and no interest financing available.

Appointments are limited, please call today!

210-384-2198

Specia Annive l rsar Pricing y Availab le!

5000 Schertz Pkwy, Ste 300 Schertz, TX 78154

210-384-2198 DR. PHALLON DOSS Audiologist

www.dossaudiology.com Expires 8/14/15

© 2015 Starkey. All Rights Reserved. 6/15 37018-15

D

Kiosk Located in YMCA Takes Water Bill Payments The City of Schertz is proud to offer residents a more convenient and timely way to pay their water bill.

A kiosk has been placed in the Schertz Family YMCA that allows water customers to pay their bill after hours and on weekends with cash or credit.

The kiosk gives immediate payment notification, but does not give change. Over payment is credited to the account.

Cash transaction fee: $.01 - $100 --- $3.00. $100.01 - $200 -- $6.00 $200.01 - $300 -- $9.00 Credit Card transaction fee: $.01- $99,999 - $3.00 TouchPay User charge --- $1.00 Credit Card Company The kiosk is another example of the City’s dedication to improved customer service. schertzmagazine.com

AUGUST 2015

35

FEATUREZ

Local Family Finds Vision Impairment Answer Editor’s Note: Schertz resident Wendy Kinkade and her family’s vision-related struggles are featured in a June 2015 report from the College of Optometrists in Vision Development (COVD), a non-profit, international membership association of eye-care professionals.

D

oes your otherwise bright child struggle to read, lose their place often or have difficulty remembering what they have just read? Do they have trouble remembering their spelling words or math facts, or take hours to do their homework?

Such was the case for Wendy Kinkade’s two sons, Ryan and Jacob, who had struggled academically since early elementary school. Despite years of tutoring and support through their schools, they were reading several years below their grade levels.

Jacob Kinkade works with a vision specialist.

36

AUGUST 2015

schertzmagazine.com

Finally, after a teacher suggested that their problem could be vision related, the boys were diagnosed with visual processing impairments.“ We never thought their issues could be vision related,” Kinkade said.

“Both boys always passed their vision screenings and

have 20/20 eyesight, and Ryan even played baseball.

What we didn’t know is that there is a huge difference between clarity of sight and the effectiveness of the visual system.”

track the words on the page.

This prevented comprehension of visual input, so they were not able to successfully process what they were reading for future recall or testing.

Most parents assume that if their child passed their vision screenings in elementary school there could not still be a problem with their vision. In fact, the Texas public school screenings only evaluate one of 17 different visual skills needed for learning and do not substitute for a comprehensive vision exam.

“Their developmental optometrist explained that reading for them was like trying to read a page from a Where’s Waldo? book. Having no frame of reference, they had no idea that the way they saw the words on a page was different than what anyone else saw,” Kinkade said.

Additionally, children in Texas public schools are considered to be passing if their vision screening scores are 20/40 or better.

When parents like Kinkade don’t consider vision as the possible source of academic struggles, it can delay diagnosis and treatment that can potentially correct these vision related impairments.

The American Optometric Association states, “When vision problems go undetected, children almost invariably have trouble reading and doing their schoolwork.

They often display fatigue, fidgeting, and frustrations in the classroom – traits that can lead to a misdiagnosis of dyslexia or other learning disabilities.”

Ryan and Jacob had significant visual motor, or eye muscle, impairments that prevented their eyes from working correctly for near vision, causing double vision and an inability to focus and

When reading, the boys skipped words, skipped lines, missed punctuation, and often had little to no comprehension of what they had just read. They lost their place frequently and were easily distracted. “Reading was torture, and homework took hours,” Kinkade said.

“They would start off reading well, but only make it through a line or two before beginning to skip around and lose their place again.”

Math and composition were also challenging, since the boys had difficulty aligning their handwriting vertically and horizontally. They couldn’t work the math problems since their numbers didn’t line up, and their stories were hard to read since their handwriting was so poor,” Kinkade said.

She also learned that the boys exhibited other symptoms of their visual impairments that she would not have connected to being vision related, such as migraines, car sickness, difficul-

Ryan Kinkade, right, takes part in a vision procedure.

ty learning to ride a bike and difficulty catching a ball.

Fortunately, Kinkade learned that not only were her sons’ impairments identifiable, but also treatable through Optometric Vision Therapy.

“Because of our brain’s neuroplasticity, or ability to constantly learn and change, the eye muscle and brain pathways can be rehabilitated to function correctly, as with physical or occupational therapy,” Kinkade said.

The boys each underwent several months of weekly Vision Therapy sessions, supported at home by daily assigned “homework.” After graduating from their Vision Therapy programs last year, both boys are now reading on grade level.

“While Vision Therapy does not teach them to read better, it removes the obstacles to learning, retention and recall. After years of wondering why they had to work so hard in school as compared to their classmates, my boys now know there was a physical impairment holding

them back. Where they were previously bound by their academic difficulties, now they are without limits,” she said.

Since her sons’ diagnoses, Kinkade has become an advocate for Vision Therapy.

“When you finally have the answer, after seeing your children struggle for years and not knowing how to help them, you can’t help but share it.”

Nielsen Vision Development Center, located inside Schertz Texas State Optical, is one of only three Vision Therapy centers in the San Antonio area.

Dr. Leigha Nielsen, OD, explains that she decided to additionally pursue Developmental Optometry certification in Vision Therapy because she realized that she was seeing a significant number of patients in her practice who needed Vision Therapy for both visual issues and learning issues.

“Many children who struggle academically (reading, math,

schertzmagazine.com

continued on page 38 AUGUST 2015

37

FEATUREZ Local Family Finds Vision Impairment Answer cont’d from page 37 etc.) suffer from visual perception deficiencies, which simply cannot be corrected by a basic vision exam and a glasses prescription,” Nielsen explains. “Until these kids undergo Vision Therapy to overcome these visual processing disorders, no amount of tutoring or sheer willpower is going to help them excel. Some of these children also have physical components that complicate their learning difficulties, which can include Strabismus (eye turns) and Amblyopia (lazy eye), which affect the way they perceive a ‘3D’

world, but the most common case I see is a learning problem that is related to the visual processing system.”

Dr. Nielsen further explains that these issues are common, but often undiagnosed because the symptoms mirror those of other, more commonly diagnosed conditions.

“Based on an extensive study by the National Eye Institute in October 2008, these symptoms include: losing place while reading, struggling with word problems in math, poor spelling and

sentence structure, as well as eye fatigue and difficulty paying attention.” According to the American Public Health Association, “25 percent of students in grades K-6 have visual problems that are serious enough to impede learning.”

For more information regarding Vision Therapy and visual processing impairments, visit www.covd.org, or call Nielsen Vision Development Center, located inside Schertz TSO, at 210-5902485. Also visit www.covd. org for addition resources.

NOW IN SCHERTZ OBSTETRICS, GYNECOLOGY, INFERTILITY & PELVIC RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY Committed to high quality and compassionate care of all women, Doctor Garza is well-trained in the latest technology our specialty has to offer, including innovative laproscopic techniques for pelvic surgery and reconstruction. He performs surgical procedures and deliveries at Northeast Baptist Hospital.

Habla español, también.

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS ACACIA OB/GYN - SCHERTZ 16977 IH 35 North, Suite 210 Schertz, TX 78154 (210) 226-7827

38

AUGUST 2015

schertzmagazine.com

BHS282N ACACIA 7_5x5_GarzaAD.indd 1

SCOPE OF PRACTICE: • High risk pregnancy management

HENRY GARZA, III, MD • Vaginal & robotic pelvic surgery Board Certified Obstetrics and Gynecology

• Bioidentical hormone & menopause management • In-office sterilization & treatment of heavy periods

Book an Appointment Online!

BHSPhysiciansNetwork.com Affiliated with Baptist Health System

5/19/15 9:41 AM

CIVIC NEWZ

SPD Junior Police Academy Inspire Youngsters The Schertz Police Department is holding two Junior Police Academy this summer.

The first one was held in June for 7-9 year olds and the second is scheduled for August and is for 10 and 11 year old children.

SPD expanded the popular academy this year after an overwhelming response last summer.

YOUR EXCLUSIVE SOURCE FOR NEWS FROM THE CITY OF SCHERTZ

The camps are open to boys and girls who reside in the City of Schertz, and are from the ages of 7-11, with one class for the 7-9 and one for 10-11 year olds.

The camp covers topics like inter-

net safety, bullying, forensics, basic Texas laws, Fire, and EMS. It is will be a great way to meet new people, team build, and get a first-hand look into law enforcement and emergency services.

Photos from the camps show that youngsters really enjoy the experience and their parents are also thrilled. This year, for the June class, the students were featured on the Schertz Police Department Facebook as they progressed through the week long academy. This allowed both parents and potential applicants to see what the class entailed.

For more information go to www. schertz.com/schertzjunioracademy

schertzmagazine.com

AUGUST 2015

39

City Charter Propositions on November 3 Ballot When they go to the polls November 3, Schertz residents will have a chance to vote on 19 City Charter propositions.

Here is a summary of the propositions: 1. Proposition to delete items in the Charter due to redundancy in other Charter sections or State Law. 2. Proposition to Increase City Council from 5 to 7 Places 3. Proposition to Increase elected official terms from 2 to 3 years in length 4. Proposition to Provide for Revised Prohibitions, Forfeitures of Office and Hearing Process 5. Proposition for Revised Financial Procedures 6. Proposition to Conduct Elections Pursuant to State Law 7. Proposition to Revise Initiative, Referendum, & Recall Procedures 8. Proposition to Provide Disannexation Procedures 9. Proposition to Clarify Signature of City Documents 10. Proposition to Modify the Process of Hiring Assistant City Managers 11. Proposition to Allow the City Manager to Identify Designee to Attend Council Meetings 12. Proposition to Modify Personnel Policies 13. Proposition to Modify the Process of Hiring Deputy City Secretary 14. Proposition to Delete Planning & Zoning Commission Section of Charter 15. Proposition to Add Guidance Regarding Ordinances Passed by Petition 16. Proposition to Clarify Personal Financial Interest Policy 17. Proposition to Adjust the Size of Charter Review Commission 18. Proposition to Adjust the Term of Charter Review Commission 19. Proposition to Add a Disaster Clause for Reconstitution of the Council After an Emergency

40

AUGUST 2015

schertzmagazine.com

Community members at budget meeting last August.

Community Budget Meetings Slated The process to draft a proposed Fiscal Year 2015-16 City of Schertz Budget includes three Community Budget Meetings in August.

Please come out to learn what is being proposed to City Council in an interactive setting.

The first two meetings will be held 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, August 5, at Sippel Elementary School, 420 Fairlawn Avenue, and on Thursday, August 6, and at Corbett Junior High School, 12000 Ray Corbett Drive.

A third Community Budget meeting will be at 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, August 13, at Schertz United Methodist Church, 3460 Roy Richard Dr. (FM 3009). Refreshments will be served.

The meeting format includes a City Staff presentation on the City Budget process and timetable for FY 2015-16 budget as well as questions, suggestions and other feedback from Schertz residents.

Filing for Schertz City Council Election Ends August 24 The City of Schertz will be holding its general election on November 3, 2015 for the purpose of electing City Council members in Place 3, Place 4 and Place 5.

Any candidate desiring to have his or her name on the official ballot shall, no later than August 24, 2015, file with the City Secretary an application in writing in the form prescribed by the Texas Election Code requesting that his or her name be placed on the official ballot and declaring as a candidate for City Council Place 3, Place 4 and Place 5. The terms of office for said vacancies will expire November 2017.

All candidates for office in the City of Schertz must, at the time of filing for office, have attained the age of eighteen, be a registered voter, and have been a resident of the city for at least six consecutive months immediately preceding filing for office, and not be an obligor to the city on any obligation past due, provided, however, that a person may be elected and hold office if such obligation is being actively contested in the appropriate forum.

Candidate packets are available in the City Secretary’s office at 1400 Schertz Parkway, Building 2, or can be found online at www. schertz.com. A list of office hours for filing applications has been posted on the City’s bulletin board and a copy is also available on the City’s web site. Should you have any questions, please contact the City Secretary’s office at (210) 619-1030.

Schertz Seeks Future Water Rights

By Alan Cockerell General Manager Schertz-Seguin Local Government Corporation Schertz and Cibolo are looking for water in Wilson County - south of Guadalupe County.

The Cibolo Valley Local Government Corporation (CVLGC) was formed in 2011. Since its inception it has reorganized and is now a solid partnership between the cities of Cibolo and Schertz. The mission of CVLGC is to aid, assist and act on the behalf of the owner cities in acquisition, construction and operation of a water utility system.

State law requires that entities plan for future water needs for a 50-year horizon, utilizing the regional planning process. The long-term projected water needs for both cities exceed the current supply - thus providing the necessity of a new water production project.

CVLGC is working with the Schertz/Seguin Local Government Corporation (SSLGC) to provide the necessary infrastructure for this new water supply.

The most favorable source for a water supply project has been identified in the Carrizo-Wilcox Aquifer in neighboring Wilson County.

This development would require CVLGC to acquire water rights in the northeastern part of Wilson County and secure production and transportation permits from the Evergreen Underground Water Conservation District (EUWCD).

Currently, SSLGC has plans to open a well field that will produce groundwater for delivery to a yet to be constructed treatment plant in Guadalupe County.

This new water supply is vital to meet the needs of the expanding population of both communities.

A CVLGC Wilson County project would ensure that the 50-year supply of water will be available at the most reasonable price to its customers.

It is important that this project is included in the Region L 2016 plan, which is scheduled to be approved later this year and then submitted to the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) for inclusion in the 2017 State Water Plan.

Additional information on how to support the effort can be found at Schertz.com. schertzmagazine.com

AUGUST 2015

41

“Advertising in the Schertz Magazine is the best marketing decision we’ve made.

We have received many calls and emails from our ads. We have heard from new clients and previous clients who have ‘re-found’ us for their additional projects.

What I have noticed is that people really look forward to reading your magazine and they actually read the content and ads. We love it.”

Justin O’Donnell & Kevin O’Donnell Managing Members EmbroidMe & Signarama of Schertz

Proudly giving back with financial donations and hours by supporting great causes in our community

SERVTEX QUARRY 210.658.7461

PAW_August_Schertz_Ad_PR.pdf

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

1

7/9/15

9:42 AM

Looking Back August

Quote of Note “Today’s generation has all the good stuff; yesterday’s generation had all the right stuff ” Author Unknown

Local History

On August 15, 1845, Johann Jacob and Anna Elizabeth (Hofheiny) Sieler arrived in Texas from Germany aboard the sail ship Herschel and became first colonists of New Braunfels, Texas, later (1850) to become first colonists of Schertz-Cibolo, Texas. The Seiler family operated a major farm in the Schertz area for many years. Two Seiler brothers build homes along Second Street in our city’s heritage neighborhood (south of FM 78) and the family operated a hardware store at 507 Main Street. Today, two historic Seiler cemeteries exist within the Schertz city limits.

Civic Center: August 3 - College Authority (high school 10th thru 12th graders for college prep) 6:30 pm August 7 - Senior Center Gala August 18 - Schertz Chamber Luncheon August 21 - Hill Country Doll Show

Community Center: Demory Ballroom Dancing Every Monday at 8:00 pm Senior Line Dancers Every Tuesday at 9:00 am Beading House - August 14 -15 Lions Club Teen Dance - August 28

Texas History

On August 8, 1812, approximately 130 men that formed the Gutierrez-Magee Expedition crossed the Sabine from Louisiana in a rebel movement against Spanish rule in Texas. The Battle of Plum Creek (August 11, 1840), near present-day Lockhart, ended the boldest and most penetrating Comanche challenge to the Texas Republic. A hurricane struck the Port of Indianola on August 19-21, 1886 destroying or damaging every house. Indianola is never rebuilt.

Presented by the Schertz Historical Preservation Committee in the interest of historical perspective and community awareness of local historical legacies.

CITY CALENDARZ Annual Events: September

SchertzFest September 18-19

October

National Night Out October 6 Trunk or Treat October 31

November

Hal Baldwin Scholarship Golf Tournament November 6 Schertz Chamber Of Commerce Banquet November 13 Steve Simonson Volunteer of the Year and Boards and Commission Recognition TBA Turkey Trot November 27

Be sure to check out visitschertz.com for more event info!

#info

August 2015 Tuesday, 4

City Council, 6:00 PM Council Chamber

Thursday, 6

TSAC, 5:30 PM City Council Chambers

Tuesday, 11

City Council, 6:00 PM Council Chamber

Wednesday, 12

Planning & Zoning, 6:00 PM Council Chambers

Tuesday, 18

City Council, 6:00 PM Council Chamber

Monday, 24

Parks & Recreation Advisory Board, 5:30 PM Bob Andrews Room

Tuesday, 25

City Council, 6:00 PM Council Chamber

Wednesday, 26

Planning & Zoning, 6:00 PM Council Chambers

Thursday 27

EDC Board, 6:00 PM Council Chambers Meeting locations may change, please visit the calendar at www.schertz.com for more information.

City of Schertz Elected Officials Mayor: Michael Carpenter

Council Members: Jim Fowler Grumpy Azzoz Daryl John Cedric Edwards, Sr. Robin Thompson

(210) 619-1045 (210) 658-1442 (210) 488-4214 (210) 204-2750 (210) 566-4540 (210) 204-8649

City Departments:

City of Schertz (210) 619-1000 Animal Control (210) 619-1550 Business/Utilities (210) 619-1100 City Manager (210) 619-1000 City Secretary (210) 619-1030 Civic Center (210) 619-1600 Customer Care/311 (210) 619-1000 Economic Development (210) 619-1070 EMS (non-emergency) (210) 619-1400 Fire (non-emergency) (210) 619-1300 Human Resources (210) 619-1150 Information Technology (210) 619-1180 Inspections (210) 619-1750 Marshal Services (210) 619-1650 Municipal Court (210) 619-1500 Parks & Recreation (210) 619-1850 Planning & Zoning (210) 619-1780 Police (non-emergency) (210) 619-1200 Public Affairs (210) 619-1630 Public Library (210) 619-1700 Public Works (210) 619-1800 Records (210) 619-1030 Website schertz.com

IMPORTANT SCHERTZ WEBSITES schertz.com visitschertz.com schertzmagazine.com Like us on Facebook

T S EAEW H T VI E R NOAKE LEG L OL C

Registe

r early

Apply

for Fall

by Au

g. 3 ration Deadli Aug. 1 ne 6

Regist

2015

alamo.edu/nlc 210-486-5000

The Alamo Colleges are an EOE. For any special accommodations issues or an alternate format, contact the Title IX Coordinator, (210) 485-0200.

Keep Living (210) 305-5713

Assisted Living Like You’ve Never Seen Before!TM LegacyAtForestRidge.com

Hello@LegacyAtForestRidge.com

FouAsk ab nde ou r’s S t ou pec r ial

PAY YOUR WATER BILL AT THE SCHERTZ FAMILY YMCA Kiosk Payments for Water Bills: Schertz Family YMCA 621 Westchester Dr. Schertz, TX 78154 YMCA Hours Monday - Friday 5:00 AM - 9:00 PM Saturday 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM

TouchPay provides fast, secure, and convenient ways to pay at the kiosk.

CASH AND CREDIT/DEBIT CARDS ARE ACCEPTED.

There is a fee for this service. Š2015 TouchPay Holdings, LLC. d/b/a GTL Financial Services. All Rights Reserved. PSWB_ST1E

PUBLIC AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT 1400 SCHERTZ PARKWAY SCHERTZ, TEXAS 78154