January 2016

TO

YOU

JANUARY 2016

BY

THE

CITY

OF

SCHERTZ,

TEXAS

magazine

BROUGHT

2016 January Events January 9, 2016 Schertz Civic and Community Center San Antonio Radio Club January 4th & 25th, 2016 Schertz Civic Center Acting & Modeling Registration 6pm KM Impressions & Forward Progress Production Acting Information- Please call the Schertz Civic Center 210-619-1611 January 30, 2016 Schertz Civic Center Health and Wholeness Fair January 31, 2016 Schertz Community Center Sports Cards and Collectibles Showcase

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

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

Editor’z Letter

VOLUME 32 ISSUE 1

By Chuck McCollough, Editor

32 Years and counting...!

PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY Public Affairs Department Linda Klepper Public Affairs Director Chuck McCollough Editor Alexis Souza Graphic Design/Art Direction 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,Jesus R. Garcia, Kari Bridges, Jim Webb, Stan Leland, Wendy Kinkade, 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, Mary Oakes, 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, Samuel Rhodes, Linda Klepper, Amanda Mercer, Calvin True, Elysia Santoya, Alyson Garcia, Erin True, Lisa Green, Kaylie Kennedy, Mike Bowers, Fiona Scoggin, Ethan Bookout, Terrell Mitchell, 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 events@schertz.com. For advertising information: Schertz Magazine, 1400 Schertz Parkway, Schertz, Texas 78154; call (210) 619-1630; Fax (210) 6191619; 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.

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he month of January is named after Janus - the Roman god of gates and doorways something that opens - like a new year.

The question of what is on the other side of that opening is what intrigues us because we are a curious species.

In the spirit of that new opening and the future it represents, the January 2016 issue of Schertz Magazine has stories about new things to come, things already here and known to some but waiting to be discovered by others and the tale of a timeless Christmas icon who has gotten a new face for the past 42 years.

Begin with two projects recently started that will improve two means of transportation - walking and swimming.

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is working on a $3.2 million project

to build new sidewalks on FM 3009 from IH-35 to FM 78.

The project will take about 11 months and is being heralded by local officials.

Mayor Michael Carpenter said, “The city has talked about the need for sidewalks along 3009 for 30 years. City Council has long been concerned about the safety of people who do walk along that road, which has very heavy traffic.”

Pedestrian traffic on the 3.1 mile section of FM 3009 is expected to increase as the sidewalk construction progresses.

Next put on your swimsuit, grab your favorite floaty and read about the new natatorium adjacent to the Schertz Public Library, the Schertz Area Senior Center, the Schertz Recreation Center -home to the Schertz Family YMCA - and the Schertz Veterans Memorial Plaza.

FEATUREZ

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Natatorium Construction Slated to Start

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New Sidewalks Will Make Happy Feet

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VIA Vanpool Serves Schertz Knights of Columbus Enrich Community

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Sippel Students Learn Leadership

P38 As you can see, the new natatorium is centrally located and walkable from many places.

When completed, the aquatic center, with a stone veneer and glass exterior, will feature a large competition swimming pool with bleacher seating for 300, a smaller leisure pool, men’s and women’s locker rooms with a total of 120 lockers, a changing room designed for families, and a parking lot with 75 spaces. Completion is scheduled for September or early October, depending on how weather affects construction.

As the City of Schertz has done so many times before, it is working with other entities. In this case the city, Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City Independent School District (SCUCISD) and the Schertz Family YMCA are partnering to build the best facility possible.

Santa Portrait #42 Unveiled

VIA vanpool riders commute to and from their jobs by shared van and split the costs of the vehicle rental and fuel.

Vans are offered in a variety of sizes with options for up to 15 passengers and are rented by the month.

A group of Schertz area residents who work at JBSA-Lackland share their thoughts and experiences on money saved, stress avoided and other advantages on their 80-mile round trip journey each work day.

Also, look for feature stories on the local Knights of Columbus and the community work they do, a program teaching leadership at Sippel Elementary School, a man who looks like Santa and has painted a different Santa portrait every year since 1974 and a historic agreement between the City and JBSA-Randolph.

All that and more in your source for hometown news -Schertz Magazine.

Under the category of “public transportation” not everyone knows about you will find Schertz Magazine’s story on VIA’s vanpool service.

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DEPARTMENTZ TALK OF THE TOWNZ Updatez Visionz / Chamber

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CIVIC NEWZ Updatez

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CALENDARZ

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COVER

A Sippel Elementary student looks through a book

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TALKOF THE

TOWNZ

Festival of Angels Has Chills, Thrills and Spills (in the snow) Newcomers, residents and visitors know that December’s first Friday means Festival of Angels and fun galore.

Hey, this event is so popular Santa Claus AND the Grinch both show up.

And so it was that hundreds of locals and folks from further away enjoyed a festive, fun and magical 20th annual Festival of Angels on December 4.

The weather was just about as perfect as it can get - cool to chilly - and clear as a Christmas bell chime.

FOA (as locals call it) offered a variety of entertainment including music from SCUCISD bands and choirs, snow, carnival rides, snow, meeting Santa Claus, snow, crafts and food, and snow.

One of the amazing things about Festival of Angels is that predictions of snow always come true. Of course the man-made snow for “Mt. Schertz”

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makes the forecast a sure thing.

Another predictable thing is the popularity race between Santa and the snow mountain. The line for Mt. Schertz was longer than the one for Santa most of the evening as people went back for “one more slide.”

Throngs of people in sweaters, coats, gloves and earmuffs lined both sides of Main Street and Schertz Parkway as 46 entrants for the night parade made their way from Pickrell Park to the Hal Baldwin Municipal Complex.

Among dignitaries waving at the crowd were Parade Marshal Heather Hurlbert (Schertz Youth Soccer Alliance president), Mayor Michael Carpenter (dressed as the Grinch in a Santa suit riding a scooter) and Billy and Linda Keen, serving as parade judges. They hosted the Visions of Santa 2015 where Billy unveiled his 42nd annual Santa portrait December 2 in the Schertz Civic Center.

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Other parade participants included: Schertz City Council members, the Schertz Sweetheart Court, the giant Schertz Police Department MRAP armored vehicle, the Schertz Fire Rescue “Quint� Fire Truck and Santa and Mrs Claus.

For a photoslideshow of the event, go to VisitSchertz.com schertzmagazine.com

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SZ Baldwin Scholarship Golf Tournament Smashing Success Rainy, dreary skies gave way to a beautiful day for the more than 80 golfers who turned out for the 5th Annual Hal Baldwin Public Service Scholarship Golf Tournament at Olympia Hills Golf & Event Center on Friday, November 6.

The tournament provides scholarships for Schertz high school seniors wanting to pursue a career in public service. Named after Schertz Mayor Hal Baldwin, who served as a City Council member and Mayor of Schertz, the scholarship was first awarded in 2008.

To date, more than $83,000.00 has been raised for scholarships and $15,500 awarded to future public service employees.

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The Crossvine Donates 400 Books The Crossvine donated a number of custom designed copies of Peter Pan and The Secret Garden to the Schertz Public Library on November 20.

Developer Chris Price and other Crossvine representatives presented two books to Schertz Public Library Director Melissa Uhlhorn on Wednesday, November 18. Other City of Schertz representatives at the donation ceremony were Mayor Pro Tem Jim Fowler, City Manager John Kessel and chairman of the Planning & Zoning Commission David Richmond.

Schertz officials thanked Price and The Crossvine and said the gesture is another example of how the city and The Crossvine are working together to help improve the community.

In addition to the Schertz Library, Crossvine is donating a total of 400 books to libraries at JBSA-Randolph Air Force Base, Rose Garden Elementary School, Ray D. Corbett Junior High School, Barbara C. Jordan Intermediate School, and Clemens High School.

These books are an extension

of a plan for permanent, freestanding “lending-library” boxes that will be installed throughout The Crossvine community. The Crossvine designed and printed custom covers for Peter Pan and The Secret Garden for these lending libraries and the book donation idea grew from there.

“This project began as an amenity for residents of The Crossvine, to kick start engagement with the lending libraries within the neighborhood; but as the project progressed, we wanted to extend the service to the surrounding community,” Price said. “The Crossvine is committed to fostering a sense of community and connectivity within The Crossvine, and between the neighborhood and the City of Schertz, and this donation is a part of that commitment to advance Schertz and the people who live in the area,” Price said The Crossvine is a mixed-use, master-planned community in southern Schertz.

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January 2016 Library Events Seasons Readings:

Winter Reading Club for all Ages (Youth-Adult)

Once again, the Schertz Public Library will be holding a Winter Reading Club with fun reading challenges and opportunities to win prizes. Our Winter Reading Club is a free reading club open to all. The reading club runs from January 4 to February 12, 2016.

It’s as easy as 1-2-3: Register (in person at the library or online at www.schertzlibrary.org), Read ( five books), and Return (your completed reading log for a special prize).

Adult Coloring Club:

Monday, January 11th @ 12-1:30pm and Thursday, January 28th @ 6-7:30pm

Coloring is an activity we traditionally think of as being for kids. However, it can be very beneficial for adults. Coloring helps us de-stress because when we focus on a particular activity, we concentrate on it and not on our worries.

For more information on Library events, follow them on Facebook.

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Coloring stimulates brain areas related to motor skills, the senses, and creativity. Coloring sheets and colored pencils will be provided. Please adults ages 18+ only and pre-registration not required!

Poetry Open Mic:

Thursday, January 21st @ 6:30pm

Everyone is invited to join us for an evening of original poetry and song by local artists!

All area talent is welcome to perform! The featured poet for January is Toni Murguia! schertzmagazine.com

Library This past fall, the Schertz Public Library conducted a customer satisfaction survey over a two-week period and received just under 300 responses!

We really appreciate the time and reflection participants put into the survey.

We are always looking at how we can better serve the community and are happy to report that some of your suggestions are already in the making; some we were working on even before the survey!

We will continue surveying on an annual basis and use the results to pinpoint areas for improvement. While the results were enormously positive, there were a few common suggestions or themes in the survey’s responses that we’d like to touch on.

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Survey Results •

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Food/Drink Policy (need to allow it!) We have a new policy that will be sent to the Library Advisory Board for approval in January. If it passes, changes allowing food and drink will take effect February 1st!

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Late Fines (too expensive!) We already had a 3-day grace period in place, but beginning in October with the passing of the city’s new fee schedule we capped late fines for all materials except Interlibrary Loan materials at $1.00 per item. Replacement costs will remain the same should you damage or fail to return materials.

InterLibrary Loan (too hard to use, too slow, too expensive!)

• Earlier this month our InterLibrary Loan requests went digital! You can now place requests online at www. schertzlibrary.org by going to our Adult Services page or our Using the Library page. We think this new process will be smoother, however we cannot control how long it takes for the request to be filled by the lending

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libraries.

As for the $3.00 postage fee, it is per the Texas State Library’s Interlibrary Loan Protocol and is allowed in order to offset some of the cost of the service.

However, we are monitoring ILL usage to determine whether or not we can afford to absorb that fee once again in next fiscal year’s budget.

Should you want an item we do not own, there is always the option of suggesting a purchase for our collection. The purchase suggestion form is located on our Using the Library page.

Collection (not enough stuff !) While we strive to meet all your needs, we are on a budget. This always impacts what we can purchase, but if we don’t have what you need, take advantage of the following: • The aforementioned purchase suggestion form and InterLibrary Loan service • The TexShare Card Program, our reciprocal borrowing program that lets you

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check out items from other participating libraries in Texas Check to see if we own the e-book or e-audiobook version Donations — help us out! We are happy to accept any donations you send our way as we do add relevant materials to the library collection and sell the rest of it in our bookstore to help with the purchase of materials and programming supplies. The guidelines for donations can be found on our bookstore page.

Customer Service (smile more!) Thank you for the many complimentary comments regarding our team! Everyone really does try to make your visit to the library a great one. A few respondents had concerns about specific incidents or encounters. If you are ever unhappy with your interactions with staff, please let us know so we can respond appropriately and in a timely manner.

Please take advantage of the new feedback box in the library lobby located next to the book drop and provide us with as much

information as you can.

You can also let us know online at the bottom left of our website where we ask “how are we doing.”

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Hours & Holiday Closures (open more hours!) Operating hours, too, are directly impacted by our budget and extending them hasn’t really been an option since opening the new building, although we try to figure out ways to make it happen each year and will continue to do so. We would love to be able to offer additional programs or let you stay later working on your projects.

As for the number of days we are open, it varies each year, mostly because of the way the holidays fall. The City of Schertz Master Calendar is the operating calendar for all departments, including the library, so we are closed on official city holidays. Any other days that we are closed are due to emergency events, planned closures for maintenance and training, and extremely low-volume holidays when it is not costeffective to be open. We were open 349 days in FY15 and 353 days in FY14.

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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 Member

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.

Welcome New Members to the Schertz Chamber!

Drash Companies 1045 Central Parkway North, Ste 101 San Antonio, Texas 78232 (210) 340-5004 www.drashcontracting.com

Circle of Cancer Care Cibolo, Texas 78154 (210) 802-1740 www.circleofcancercare.org

3 Local Businesses Give Scholarships to Two Students!

Thank you to Frost Bank, GVEC and Schertz Bank & Trust for the scholarships toward the tuition for Clemens DECA student Emily Daigle and Steele student Andrew Tran. They will be part of the SCOC Leadership CORE class of 2016. Leadership CORE is a six-month study in our community’s leadership through exploring our local government, industry, education and non-profits. Congratulations!

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Randolph Metrocom Rotary Club Universal City, Texas 78148 (210) 683-1169 www.randolphmetrocomrotary.org

DECA at Clemens and Steele High Schools Get Scholarship from Chamber Members and the Golf Classic!

At the December Chamber luncheon, DECA representatives, along with Dr. Greg Gibson and Board Directors Gary Inmon, John Correu and Jerry Perkins, thanked the sponsors and participants of the 6th annual Chamber/Caterpillar Golf Classic. Through play and sponsorships, the Chamber was able to donate $16,527 to be split between both schools! To all our Members who contributed, donated, played and sponsored – our future business men and women thank you for your support in their continued education!

Schertz Chamber Monthly Calendar of Events The Schertz Chamber/Visitor Center will be closed January 1st, 2016 in observance of New Year’s Day. We wish you and yours a glorious New Year!

January 19th - The State of the Chamber Annual Member Meeting will be held on January 19th, 2016 at the Schertz Civic Center, 1400 Schertz Pkwy, Bldg. 5, from 11:30-1:00 pm. General admission is $28 and $18 for Chamber members. Please RSVP no later than January 12th. State of the Chamber will cover the accomplishments of 2015, financial standing, and exciting new programs and changes for 2016.

January 21st - Chamber After Hours Mixer Hosted by Color Clay Studio, located at 17327 IH 35 North, #202, Schertz from 5:30-7:00 pm (right by Abel’s Diner). Join us for an evening of networking, fun and Members have a chance to win Chamber cash!

January 30th – The Schertz Chamber and Baptist Emergency Hospital present the 4th Annual Health and Wholeness Fair at the Schertz Civic Center, 1400 Schertz Pkwy, Bldg. 5 from 11:00am-3:00pm. 70 vendors covering areas of the four areas of health wholeness: nutritional, physical, mental and spiritual. Free health screenings and more! Free admission and parking! See page 18 for more information.

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, stop by our office at 1730 Schertz Parkway, call 210-619-1950 or go to our website at schertzchamber.org.

YOUR HEALTH IN WHOLE

1. Carbohydrates. Go for 100% whole grain breads and pasta, brown rice, starchy vegetables, nuts, seeds, low-fat dairy and plenty of fruits and vegetables.

Each year, everyone vows to eat better, exercise more, have more “me” time as well as strengthen their brain power so they can be on top of more things in their life. It seems overwhelming and much easier to stay where we are than even attempt to try.

2. Keep protein lean. Some good meatfree options include beans, peas, quinoa, lentils, tofu, low-fat yogurt and 1% milk.

For meat, cuts that have round, chuck, or loin in the name are usually leanest.

We encourage you to come out to our FREE Health and Wholeness Fair on January 30th at the Schertz Civic Center from 11am to 3pm.

Baptist Emergency Hospital, the City of Schertz, BHS Physicians Network, Schertz Cibolo Emergency Clinic and The Legacy at Forest Ridge are our event sponsors and participants among 70 health and wellness providers.

Until then, let us help kick start your New Year and new YOU with helpful encouraging tips on the following page covering our four areas of health wholeness: Nutrition, Fitness, Mental and Spiritual.

See you on the 30th!

Your Schertz Chamber Staff: Maggie Titterington Robin Thompson Jana Volitis Erica Hernandez

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NUTRITION

3. Make healthy fats your friend.

Add avocados, nuts, seeds and nut butters and fatty fish like salmon into your weekly menu. Cook with oils like olive or grape seed .

4. Make the most of your calories. At each meal, eat a combination of protein foods, whole grains, dairy, fruits and vegetables, and incorporate the groups you miss into other meals and snacks throughout the day.

Remember – it’s not about being perfect but getting the right nutrition in your body and making good choices most of the time.

Source: www.blog.myfitnesspal.com/nutrition

SPIRITUAL

MENTAL

FITNESS

1. Explore your spiritual core. Ask yourself: Who are you? What is your purpose?

What do you value most? These questions will lead you down a road where you will think more in-depth about yourself.

1. It should teach you something new.

The activity needs to be something that’s unfamiliar and out of your comfort zone. To strengthen the brain, you need to keep learning and developing new skills.

1. Put it on the Calendar—in Pen! Schedule your workouts the same way you plan your week

2. Try yoga. Yoga is a physical technique that can help improve your spiritual wellness by reducing emotional and physical strains on your mind and body.

Yoga can help lower stress, boost the immune system, and lower blood pressure as well as reduce anxiety, depression, fatigue, and insomnia.

3. Think positively. Once you start viewing things in your life in a positive manner, you will find yourself thinking differently and refocusing your mind to a happy, healthy place. When you eliminate negativity and re-frame how you think of certain things and situations, you’ll notice yourself being more relaxed.

4. Take time to meditate. While managing your time and daily tasks can be hard, it is crucial to devote time to connecting with yourself. Whether in the morning when you wake up, during your lunch break, or before you go to sleep, take five to 10 minutes to meditate each day.

2. It should be challenging. The best brain-boosting activities demand your full and close attention. It must still be something that requires mental effort.

3. It should be a skill you can build on.

Look for activities that allow you to start at an easy level and work your way up as your skills improve — always pushing the envelope so you continue to stretch your capabilities.

4. It should be rewarding. Rewards support the brain’s learning process. The more interested and engaged you are in the activity, the more likely you’ll be to continue doing it and the greater the benefits you’ll experience.

Source: www.helpguide.org/articles/memory

2. Make it fun. Find an activity that you love and make that part of your routine. Line dancing, roller skating or even walking the dog, you’re more likely to stick to an exercise plan that makes you smile than one you dread.

3. Get Outside! Invite your friends for a power walk around the neighborhood or turn your 2:15pm touch-base with a coworker into a walking meeting, and do a couple laps around the building 4. Don’t Aim for Perfection. Instead of getting bogged down with doing the perfect workout or signing up for the trendiest class, simply add more movement into your day.

Remember - whether it’s taking the stairs instead of the elevator or parking your car at the last parking spot and walking to the front doors, EVERYTHING counts!

Source: www.blog.myfitnesspal.com

Source: http://stories.illinoisstate.edu/studentaffairs/health-promotion-and-wellness/7-waysimprove-spiritual-wellness/

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In Albuquerque NM Balloon Fiesta Schertz Magazine contributing writer Stan Leland and wife Janell took the magazine with them on a balloon flight at the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. The magazine Stan holds has the cover photo taken by his daughter Elizabeth.

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In Maine

Bob Giberson took Schertz Magazine on a trip to his native state of Maine.

In St. Maarten

Lisa and Brian Lynch took Schertz Magazine on a trip to St. Maarten.

In Rome and Florence

Cindy Manak took Schertz Magazine on a trip to Rome and Florence.

With Minions in Florida

Joni Johnson and family took Schertz Magazine on a trip to be with the Minions at Universal Studios in Florida.

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FEATUREZ

Natatorium Construction Slated to Start

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By Richard Erickson

Construction has begun on the Schertz Aquatic Center, the latest addition to an expanding list of new public facilities in this fast-growing city.

Work on the 19,000-square-foot center, designed by Marmon-Mok Architects and being built by Byrne Construction Services, started in November on vacant land at Schertz Parkway and Elbel Road. The center will be south of the Schertz Public Library and the City’s recreation center - home of the Schertz Family YMCA. When completed, the aquatic center, with a stone veneer and glass exterior, will feature a large competition swimming pool with bleacher seating for 300, a smaller leisure pool, men’s and women’s locker rooms with a total of 120 lockers, a changing room designed for families, and a parking lot with 75 spaces. Completion is scheduled for September or early October, depending on how weather affects construction.

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FEATUREZ Natatorium Construction Slated to Start cont’d from page 25

The facility was originally funded out of the City’s successful 2010 bond issue that also made possible three more fields to the baseball complex,

complicated of them all,” he noted, explaining the timing.

“We wanted to do it right.”

To accomplish that, the City searched for the right designer and builder, according to Phil Gaudreau, owner’s representative for Dallas-based Jackson A&E Associates, an architectural and engineering consultant hired by Schertz to oversee and manage the design and construction process. He also worked with City staff on selecting the designer and contractor for the project.

“We have been with the project since its very conception a few years ago and put out the requests for quotes for the professional design. Then we interviewed a short list of finalists. The firm awarded the contract, Marmon-Mok, is very experienced in building aquatic facilities,” Gaudreau said.

a significant upgrade to the soccer complex, a new animal shelter, a dog park and a new children’s playscape.

“We’ve been working on the bond projects for five years,” said Brian C. James, Schertz Executive Director of Development. “It is not possible to build everything at once on the front end, so we stagger the projects and this project was the most

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Byrne, the company chosen as project contractor, is another experienced player.

It was founded in 1923 and with its South Texas regional headquarters in San Antonio currently does more than $424 million in construction annually. “It’s going to be a very, very nice facility,” Gaudreau added. “Something that will be solid and functional and will serve the community at large for many years to come.”

It’s going to be a very, very nice facility...

Phil Gaudreau,

Architectural and Engineering Consultant

City staff saw that the best way to make sure the center was successful was to create partnerships to help build and maintain the facility.

Such a strategy has been in place in Schertz for years. The Schertz Public Library, for instance, operates with funding from Guadalupe County, the City of Cibolo and the City of Selma. The City’s baseball complex is operated and maintained by the Buffalo Valley Youth Association (BVYA) and the soccer complex by the Schertz Youth Soccer Alliance (SYSA).

In addition, the YMCA of Greater San Antonio operates the Schertz recreation center (through its branch Y) and

Schertz Area Senior Center as well as the city’s two existing outdoor swimming pools.

in Converse for its Steele and Clemens high school swim teams.

The YMCA organization was approached by officials to oversee the new aquatic center as well. It agreed and pledged to pay $2 million over 20 years to ensure the facility meets the entire community’s needs. It is estimated that use of the pool will cost $6 for a one-day pass, with members of the City Recreation Center receiving access as part of that membership. YMCA membership will not be required.

In exchange for use of the six out of eight lanes of new aquatic center’s large competition pool and the locker rooms during the school year from 5:30 to 9:30 a.m. five days a week and three or four seasonal swim meets, the district agreed to pay the city $1.65 million.

Another partnership was forged with the Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City Independent School District, which now uses a swimming pool facility

With those agreements in place, the final cost of the new natatorium, James said, will be $8.5 million, a total that Byrne Construction, as part of its contract, guaranteed it would not exceed.

“This is such a unique project

for Schertz,” he said. “It’s a facility we feel like, based on the design, meets the very broad spectrum of citizens’ wants.

And, with the school district involved, we can maximize the use of the facility for both local recreation and local competition.”

Tony Battle, president of the Byrne Construction South Texas Region, and representatives of Marmon-Mok, were present at the October 20 City Council meeting when final approval of the new Schertz Aquatic Center was given.

Mayor Michael Carpenter smiled widely when the council votes were counted.

“Mr. Battle,” he said, “go build a pool for us.”

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FEATUREZ

New Sidewalks Will Make Happy Feet

By Chuck McCullough

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The Texas Department of Transportation started construction of new sidewalks along both sides of FM 3009 between IH-35 and FM 78 in Schertz around November 10.

That is good news to City officials and residents who have talked about the need for sidewalks along the busy state-owned road for some time now.

to places up and down FM 3009, just go for a walk on a nice day or for health reasons. The sidewalks help us have more connectivity in Schertz,” the mayor said.

The $3.2 million project will take about a year to complete. Most of that came from Category 7

between the hours of 9 AM and 4 PM on weekdays to minimize the impact to livelihood through the area. Those hours should keep crews out of the rush hour traffic while also avoiding night work that could prove disruptive through the residential areas along this 3.1-mile stretch of FM 3009. Work will be happening on both sides of the road simultaneously.

Mayor Michael Carpenter said: “The City has talked about the need for sidewalks along 3009 for 30 years. City Council has long been concerned about the safety of people who do walk along that road, which has very heavy traffic.”

“The Council realized one of the best and fastest ways to get sidewalks would be with MPO (Metropolitan Planning Organization) funding. It turns out that the FM 3009 sidewalk project was a good fit for some left over money the MPO had.”

According to the mayor, TxDOT initially said they could not get to the project until 2017 but was able to start it in late 2015.

“The FM 3009 sidewalks also fit into the City’s vision of being multi-model with residents having transportation options to walk, ride a bike, or drive a car to various places in Schertz,” Carpenter said.

Work began near IH-35 on the southbound side of the road and near FM 78 on the northbound side.

Drivers in the area can expect the right lane in each direction to close as needed.

Dan Williams Company - the mobility funds managed by the Alamo Area MPO, which selected the project based on strong support from the City of Schertz. A little more than $400,000 comes from Category 1 funds managed by the local TxDOT district.

Crews are limited to working

project contractor - is committed to keeping one lane open in each direction.

Updates on the project will be posted periodically online at http://txdotsanantonio.blogspot.

And the new sidewalks dovetail perfectly with the City of Schertz’s walking culture, which is on display all over town, day and night, and in all seasons.

“Residents and business employees and others will now have the option of using sidewalks to get

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FEATUREZ

VIA Vanpools Serve Schertz

By Lucille Sims Thoma

N

Now that it’s 2016, many people are thinking about ways to improve their lives and make things easier and better. For drivers making a long, stressful commute, VIA is ready to help with vanpool options to fit a variety of needs.

VIA can offer commuters a chance to save money, wear and tear on vehicles and sometimes even a chance to get to know your co-workers a little better.

VIA vanpool riders commute to their jobs by shared van and split the cost of the vehicle rental and fuel. Vans are offered in a variety of sizes with options for up to 15 passengers and are rented by the month.

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The more people who share the van the cheaper the price will be for riders. Some vanpools rotate drivers through each of the participants while some have one person who drives and maintains the van and in exchange is allowed to ride for free.

“Provide an intersection near your home, your ZIP code, your work address, and your work schedule and we’ll help you find a vanpool match,” said Lorraine Pulido, communications manager for VIA. “If there is not one currently available, you will be contacted when one might match your preferences.”

Irand Denton works as a network security technician at Lackland Air Force Base and loves his vanpool commute.

“Working at Lackland, it’s a pretty good drive to get out that way so the vanpool was a kind of a Godsend in that I save some money and it helps that I actually enjoy being with the people that ride in the van,” said Denton who lives in Cibolo.

VIA Vanpool riders shown are, from left: Irand Denton, Lloyd Sweet, Michael Cox, Debra Braun, and Linda Green.

He joined his vanpool eight months ago after a co-worker told him about it. There is the initial shock of realizing you don’t have your car with you all day long, Denton said, but vanpool riders are allowed to use the van to run errands or go to appointments during the workday. The only requirement for this is that they must have the van back in time for the commute home.

Denton has this advice for commuters thinking about participating in a vanpool: “I would say to give it a try for a week or so and see if it’s something they can live with. I believe also it depends on the people who you have in the vanpool, so if one doesn’t work for you, you just might be able to find another,” he said.

for the Logistics Readiness Squadron in Material Management as part of flight operations at Lackland AFB. She also found out about the vanpool from a co-worker.

your vehicle and the cost of having to drive 80 miles a day to and from work.

Plus you get an opportunity to not drive for several weeks and can just sit back and enjoy the ride,” Belleny said.

As a vanpool captain, Linda Green is the one who takes care of all the administrative paperwork involving the vehicle and also assumes responsibility for its maintenance.

She ensures the van is only operated by approved drivers and strives to make sure all vanpool charges and expenses are paid promptly.

He also enjoys being able to catch up on some things on the commute.

Green lives in Cibolo and is an administrative assistant for the 25th Air Force Safety Office at Lackland. Also, she’s the JBSA Lackland Vanpool Coordinator (a volunteer position).

His vanpool co-workers get along great and that helps make their commute enjoyable.

“Sometimes we do our own thing, but the majority of the time we solve the world’s problems on our ride to and from work,” Denton said a laugh.

Since there are six people in Denton’s vanpool and they rotate drivers, he only has to drive every six weeks.

Debra Braun lives in Live Oak and uses the VIA vanpool because it saves her about $300 a month in gas. She also likes that it saves wear and tear on her car’s tires and how frequently she has to do oil changes and other types of maintenance on her vehicle.

Each vanpool must have a certain number of people to function.

Participants can join an existing vanpool if there are openings or start a new one.

For Greg Belleny, the decision to use the vanpool was easy. Once he moved to Garden Ridge he knew he wanted to be a part of a vanpool to get to and from his job as a program manager with the 67th Cyberwing at Lackland.

“We work in an area where you can’t bring cell phones so you’re really disconnected from family and friends.

When you get into the car you grab your cell phone and you have to make phone calls — it’s good to be able to do that without having to worry about driving and navigating through traffic,” he said.

Forming groups is usually easier if everyone works at the same place, but working nearby or along the commute route is not uncommon. Also, if an emergency arises and a vanpool rider needs to go home early or work late, there’s a Guaranteed Ride Home option.

For more information about VIA’s vanpools, call 210-362-2041 or visit viainfo.net/Service/VanpoolMain.aspx.

Anyone ready to take the first step and try to become part of a vanpool should call 210-362-2555.

“It is the best way to save wear and tear on

But the biggest thing she doesn’t miss is the stress that comes with commuting.

“We take turns driving so it takes away some stress and of course stress affects your health, so that’s a good thing,” said Braun who works

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FEATUREZ

Knights Of Columbus Enrich The Community

By Stan Leland

F

Father Michael J. McGivney, a 29-year-old assistant pastor at St. Mary’s Church in New Haven, Conn., gathered a group of men from his parish on October, 2 1881.

McGivney was concerned about the animosity toward Irish immigrants in his parish as well as the frequent industrial accidents that left many homes fatherless and financially destitute. He proposed a fraternal organization that would provide life insurance for its members and also underscore the patriotism of the members.

On Feb. 2 1882, the first officers were elected and the organization took as the name “The Knights of Columbus.” They chose Christopher Columbus as their namesake because he was a devout Catholic and was revered by the American public.

That small beginning as a mutual aid society dedicated to charity, unity and fraternity has blossomed into a worldwide service organization with almost 2 million members.

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Over 15,000 councils support not only the national goals in each host country but they are deeply involved in their local communities.

Good Shepherd Catholic Church is the local council in Schertz. Members come from Good Shepherd in Schertz and Immaculate Conception in Marion.

Composed of almost 300 men, they have a variety of service projects that impact the Schertz area. The organization is open to any Catholic man over 18 years of age and there is a Ladies Auxiliary for wives and daughters. A “Squires” organization is designed for young men 10-17 years old.

The Knights of Columbus is truly an organization for the whole family.

The membership over the past several years has included city councilmen, mayors, civic leaders and local businessmen. The Knights encourage and demonstrate a lifestyle of community service. Some of their activities include:

• • • • • • •

• • • •

Raising money for “Coats for Kids” to provide winter clothing for disadvantaged children in the school district Supporting a Boy Scout troop and Girl Scout troop Providing free lunch for local senior citizens each Columbus Day Serving the practical needs of the two congregations On the national level the Knights have several important programs: Over $4.4 million has been given to assist not only Christians but other religious minorities facing extinction in the Middle East due to ISIS. Over 800 Haitian children lost either an arm or leg in the 2010 earthquake. The Knights have committed to purchasing prosthetic limbs for each of them. This is not just a one-time donation. They will replace the devices twice as the child grows and provide two years of physical therapy.

Global wheelchair distribution has provided more than 53,000 wheelchairs to handicapped people in 16 countries.

Habitat for Humanity has received 1.2 million man hours of volunteer service from the Knights.

“Serving those who have Served” is a program assisting military members and their families.

Since 1968 the Knights have donated more than $600 million to programs for people with intellectual or physical disabilities and a significant portion of that has gone to the Special Olympics.

The original mission of the Knights to provide life insurance for the members continues and has been expanded to include disability, long-term care and annuities. Patrick Russell, the local insurance representative for the Knights, has a long history with the organization.

“My dad was a Knight and he was very active in the organization. I grew up helping him on various service projects.” Russell graduated from Clemens and after holding several leadership positions within the local council decided to become a full-time agent for the Knights. The legacy of service started by his parents is now his career choice.

Since the Knights of Columbus is a nonprofit organization, the profits from the insurance business go toward funding their charitable efforts.

The Knights of Columbus have monthly council meetings at Mikulski Hall on Schertz Parkway. In addition, there are usually three or four other activities each month.

The major fundraiser for the local council is their annual fish fry held each Lent. On the Fridays from Ash Wednesday to Easter, the Knights sell plates to over 200 people, observing the traditions of Lent.

Mikulski Hall is also used by Good Shepherd Church for activities and is available for rent to the public. The money raised from renting to the public is used for building maintenance.

Father McGivney’s original vision, which at the time, seemed daunting has expanded to help and do far more than he could have imagined.

The Knights of Columbus put their faith into action by serving their congregations, their local community and extending help around the world.

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Saturday, March 5, 2016 Rain or Shine

REGISTRATION Online: active.com Paper: Visitschertz.com PARTICIPANT FEE

INDIVIDUAL: 18 and up $20.00 13-17 $10.00 12 and under FREE Dogs $10.00 TEAM 6 or more each $15.00 FUN RUN All ages

$25.00

What: 5K Walk along Schertz Parkway Where: Samual Clemens Parking Lot, 1001 Elbel Road, at 8:00 AM Why: To remember loved ones lost to cancer and Honor those still fighting cancer while raising funds for cancer awareness and CTRC.

For more information, call 210-619-1636 or go to

visitschertz.com

FEATUREZ

P

Sippel Students Learn Leadership

Picture this.

As the students, parents and staff at Sippel Elementary School - led by Steele High School dancers and cheerleaders - moved along with the tempo, the Knights drumline set an undeniably charismatic and upbeat tone.

“Reading and Leading Thursday Night Lights has evolved into one of Sippel’s largest community events. Last year, we decided to combine ‘Read-

er and leader of the school’s 7 Habits Lighthouse team.

leaders in a supportive teamlike environment.

“In the past, Sippel held a separate leadership night to help

Sippel Principal Lisa Newman added her own thoughts about the “Leader in Me” program.

“I believe learning the 7 Habits early in life allows students to feel empowered and in control of the choices they make throughout their life. They may not always live them as they grow up, but the ideas and feeling of control will always be there. There are many opportunities ahead for our students, and we believe leadership skills will give them the power to dream big, and then do the work necessary to make their dreams become reality.”

What was the occasion?

Sippel’s second annual reading and leading school-community event called “Thursday Night Lights.”

The event, held in late October, involved students from both schools leading Sippel students and their families through activities that promote reading and leadership. The event, attended by more than 500 students and families, culminated with a meal served on site by McDonald’s.

ing Under the Stars,’ which highlighted the school’s book fair and encouraged families to read together, with our leadership night,” said Lori Kolodziejski, first-grade teach-

introduce families to Stephen Covey’s 7 Habits.” Covey’s “The Leader in Me” curriculum is a foundation for Sippel’s philosophy of teaching students to become effective, proactive

Sherryl Lynn Rodriguez, a teacher at Sippel who formerly taught at Steele, coordinated with Steele teacher sponsors to involve the high school stu-

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FEATUREZ Sippel Students Learn Leadership cont’d from page 35

dents in the event.

“I love to see the interaction between the older students and the younger ones who look up to them as leaders,” Rodriguez said. “The students who volunteer at the event are excited and eager to serve the community again in the future, while the elementary students who participate are introduced to extracurricular opportunities available in higher grade levels.”

This year more than 90 Steele football players, cheerleaders, dancers, JROTC, drumline and Ready-Set-Teach students served the community by leading, reading, entertaining and role modeling.

The JROTC cadets, led by CMSgt Joseph Johnson, were integral to the welcoming atmosphere and smooth flow through the activities. Along

with the teacher and parent volunteers, the Steele volunteers were instrumental to the success of the evening.

Alexis Marshall, Steele’s Varsity Cheer captain concurs.

“We really enjoyed volunteering, and to see the excitement in the kids’ eyes made us all ready to have fun. As leaders, we learned that doing the smallest things for our community can make a big difference. The children recognizing us from other events made us feel more connected!”

Emma Sardella, a Steele Knightlight dancer, agrees.

“The reading and leading night was a great experience. I had a great time working with the kids and seeing them have fun with us. We helped the kids break out of their comfort zones by doing things with them instead of just telling

them what to do. I’m glad I had the opportunity to help out and contribute. I’m really looking forward to upcoming events!”

Jami Breedlove, the snare leader from the Steele drumline adds, “The experience was so eye opening. We got to watch the amazement in those little kids’ faces and a light switch turn on for some of them. Hopefully we were able to influence their decision when it comes time to choose their extracurricular activity in school!”

Sofia Millan, a fourth-grade Sippel student leader, was pleasantly surprised by her leadership abilities.

“It was fun because when we were telling the kids what to

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do, they actually listened! The little kids were so cute…when they listened, the parents didn’t even need to help them out.” She also enjoyed the

entertainment provided by Steele’s drumline. “I thought it was cool when they were banging the drums, I like the way it sounded, and it made me dance!”

Bryson Barcellona, a fourthgrade participant, added, “I liked it because of all the activities and the food, and Knightro (Steele High School’s mascot)

was fuzzy and awesome!”

“The Leader in Me is such an important component of the Sippel campus. Using a great theme like ‘Thursday Night Lights’ to promote leadership and help our Sippel family fully understand the 7 Habits is definitely a win-win,” said Sharla Muegge, the Parent Lighthouse team leader.

FEATUREZ

Santa Portrait No. 42 Unveiled

By Chuck McCollough

The collective works of Santa painter and Schertz resident Billy Keen were on display at the Schertz Civic Center during December.

Keen unveiled his Santa No. 42 during a public reception in the Civic Center on December 2. That Santa portrait was inspired by a recent trip to Scotland with his wife, Linda, Keen said.

a white beard and looking like the Santa himself.

Two of the men whose faces he used as inspiration for portraits attended the unveiling

What started as a sweet Christmas gift idea inspired by his infant son in 1974 has turned into one of the most unique Christmas traditions in Texas and beyond.

As luck would have it, Keen had an 18 by 24 inch canvas and a nearby photo of his father. “I used my father as a model and I did a quick Santa using acrylic, which dries really fast. Santa just popped into my head because of the time of year,” he said.

The reception drew new and old friends and those curious to see and talk to the man they have heard about who gives Santa Claus a different face each year for more than 40 years.

“The Santa collection is my Christmas gift to everybody and it makes me very happy,” the artist said, smiling through

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artist got into a debate “on how the old masters got their flesh tones for their paintings. I was trying to show the process of underpainting with grey green color and over glazing with a rose wash to get a flesh tone that gives real depth,” Keen said.

and had their photo taken with Keen and the portrait they inspired.

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On a late autumn day in 1974, Keen was at work in a large studio when he and another

The Santa painting with his father’s face “laid around the studio for a while and later toward Christmas I took it home and put it in my infant son’s room. Next year rolled

The Many Faces of Santa around and I had another son and decided to do a second Santa painting for him,” Keen said smiling at a story that never gets old.

The wide variety of santas and their range of expression and settings is a major part of the collection’s popularity and the public’s fascination with it.

The biographical nature of the Santas (Keen’s

“They say when you have two paintings you have the beginning of a collection so I did a third one the following Christmas, even though I didn’t have a third son,” he said with a laugh.

Three Santa paintings became four, then five, six and seven and family and friends began to ask to borrow one or more to hang in their house as a special symbol of Christmas.

He has used the same 18 by 24 inch canvas size for each Santa painting.

“I enjoyed sharing the Santa collection at Christmas and was getting invited to parties and getting exposure as an artist. At some point my wife and I decided if someone wanted to borrow a Santa painting, they really needed to borrow the whole collection.”

From that time on the Santa collection (which grew every year) was displayed as a collection and often times at art galleries. Sometimes the location of the next Santa collection showing influenced Keen, such as the year he did a coastal Santa for a showing of the collection at a gallery in Rockport on the Gulf Coast.

Keen said the experience of seeing the Santa paintings was enhanced by seeing them all in one place at one time.

feelings inserted into the paintings) range from the first two, which celebrated the happy arrival of Keen’s sons, to the sad ones that reflected the year his father died, a good artist friend’s passing and the tragedy of 9-11.

And there are ones in between.

One year Keen met a homeless man who had such a thankful and positive attitude he lifted the artist’s spirits and inspired him to paint that man’s face as Santa Claus.

The Santa collection contains the faces of real people and ones drawn from the artist’s imagination and the influence of his surroundings.

Among other inspirations for his Santa faces were the City of Schertz’s 50th anniversary in 2008 and the Buffalo Soldiers stationed near San Angelo many years ago.

Perhaps the biggest inspiration for each Santa painting is Santa himself.

Keen is a spiritual person who knows Santa

embodies what most people seek -- love, peace and harmony. And the diversity of Santa faces and backgrounds represents that universal yearning. schertzmagazine.com

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CIVIC NEWZ YOUR EXCLUSIVE SOURCE FOR NEWS FROM THE CITY OF SCHERTZ

Schertz Adopts JLUS Recommendations

By Dan Hawkins, JBSA Public Affairs The Schertz City Council formally adopted the 2015 Joint Base San Antonio Joint Land Use Study recommendations during its November 17 meeting.

JBSA officials said the unanimous vote by City Council is a very important step toward ensuring the 12th Flying Training Wing’s mission remains compatible with planned development around JBSARandolph.

“The City of Schertz has consistently led the region as a proactive partner in this effort to help protect our mission, which is ensuring our instructor pilots remain the besttrained military aviators in the world,” said Col. Matt Isler, 12th Flying Training Wing commander in a statement released by JBSA. “This action represents the steadfast commitment of Schertz to protect our flying mission at JBSA-Randolph and we are exceptionally grateful for their deep investment and care for our mission, airmen and families by Schertz,” Isler said.

The study, completed in July 2015 and funded by grants

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from the Department of Defense and Office of Economic Adjustment, along with contributions from Bexar County, is focused on putting military installations and their local community partners at the same table to focus on finding solutions in mutual areas of concern, such as incompatible land use around airfields.

Schertz Mayor Michael Carpenter said the city is delighted to be able to continue the close partnership between Schertz and the base that has been forged over decades.

“We are thrilled to continue working closely with the base to ensure not only that the flying mission at JBSA-Randolph continues, but that our city is also able to accommodate new growth and economic development that benefits our residents,” Carpenter said.

Teaming up with the surrounding community has been a consistent theme throughout the study.

“We are grateful for the close relationships with our community partners to find common ground in JBSA-Randolph mission requirements while sustaining compatible

Col. David Drichta addresses City Council on November 17th. community growth,” said Col. David Drichta, 12th Operations Group commander.

“Implementing the JLUS’s recommendations provide a road map for JBSA-Randolph and community stakeholders, as well as reinforcing our mutually beneficial ties. We are proud to serve in our nation’s defense and glad that we have such terrific neighbors that help us sustain that mission and support our families.”

Community partners impacted by the study include Bexar, Comal and Guadalupe counties, along with the cities of Cibolo, Converse, Garden Ridge,

The mission of Headquarters Air Force Recruiting Service is to inspire, engage and recruit future Airmen to deliver airpower for America. The command is responsible for accessing 100 percent of the enlisted force, 90 percent of the service’s health professions officers, about 16 percent of the line officers and 100 percent of Air Force chaplains.

Live Oak, San Antonio, Schertz, Seguin, Selma and Universal City.

JBSA-Randolph is home to more than 11,900 personnel, include active-duty, reserve, guard and civilian personnel and their families, contributing more than $1.15 billion to the local economy in fiscal year 2014.

Major mission partners at JBSA-Randolph include Headquarters Air Education and Training Command, Air Force Personnel Center, Headquarters 19th Air Force, Air Force Recruiting Service and the 12th

Flying Training Wing.

Headquarters Air Education and Training Command was established and activated in January 1942, making it the second oldest major command in the Air Force. Its training mission makes it the first command to touch the life of nearly every Air Force member.

Members of AETC operate at 10 installations across five states.

The 19th Air Force headquarters is responsible for 19 training locations, 10 regular Air Force wings supported by six Guard and Reserve wings,

about 32,000 personnel and more than 1,350 aircraft spanning 29 different models.

Members of the Air Force Personnel Center execute programs covering the entire life cycle of military and civilian personnel for the Air Force, from accession through retirement, including recreation, growth, development and deployment. AFPC’s diverse workforce, with 10 subordinate units, has more than 2,700 Air Force military, civilian and contractor personnel responsible for worldwide operations for 1.77 million total force Airmen, retirees and family members.

The 12th FTW, with 148 total aircraft assigned, conducts flying training utilizing T-1 Jayhawk, T-6 Texan II and T38C Talon aircraft. More than 850 instructor pilots, 350 combat systems officers and 500 remotely piloted aircraft pilots and sensor operators graduate each year. The wing also operates a satellite airfield in the south Texas area at Seguin Auxiliary Airfield. Additionally, dedicated military training airspace extends across south and central Texas to support the wing’s mission.

In addition to JBSA-Randolph, JBSA major installations include JBSA-Lackland, JBSAFort Sam Houston and Camp Bullis. It is the largest joint base in the Department of Defense with more than 84,000 personnel, 135,000 students and 266 mission partners across 11 operating locations, contributing more than $12.7 billion to the local economy during fiscal year 2014.

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A Reminder From Schertz Public Works Department As the winter season approaches, here is a review of the 4 P’s to protect life and property during the winter weather, which includes checking on elderly, taking care of pets and livestock, protecting plants and exposed plumbing.

People Check on the elderly and those who may have functional or access needs to make sure that they have sufficient warmth and observe space heater safety Pets Bring inside or provide warm, dry shelter with plenty of food and water Plants Cover with a cloth or frost protection cover or bring inside Pipes Wrap all external piping to insure prevention from bursting and leave indoor faucet dripping during extended freezing conditions.

After Hour Water Service Payments Only at YMCA Kiosk

Water Utility payments will no longer be accepted at the City of Schertz Police Department for after hour restoration of service

If a customer’s service has been disconnected for non-payment and they would like to have service restored after the close of business at 5:00 p.m., all payments must be made at the City of Schertz YMCA Water Billing Kiosk Center.

Payment will need to be made by cash, MasterCard, or Visa.

When paying at the kiosk, the customer will be prompted through a series of screens that will require them to complete required information for payment on the account, credit/debit card or cash payments are accepted.

The customer will be provided a receipt that they should save for their records that will contain a confirmation number. A representative from the City of Schertz will be notified to restore service within one hour of payment received.

Sewer Averaging Will Affect Residents’ 2015-2016 Bills Sewer averaging for the winter months began on October 24 and continues through March 6, 2016 for cycle billing. Meter readings taken over this period determine your sewer average for the next billing year, which begins April 1.

The readings will be averaged and the average will be multiplied by $3.51. That total will be added to the base rate of $9.22 for residents with an average below 12,000 gallons.

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For residents with usage greater than 12,001 gallons, that portion of the average will be multiplied by $6.95 and that total will be added to the rate of $9.22 for residential use. The resulting average will be your sewer charge for the next 12 months. For more information, visit Schertz.com or call 210-619-1100.

JANUARY 2016

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Three Main Street Homes Recognized as Schertz Landmark Properties 539 Main Street

On November 10, 2015, Schertz City Council approved recommendations by the Schertz Historical Preservation Committee to add three Main Street residences to the growing list of historic Landmark Properties situated in the central city area of town.

The homes are at 539, 707 and 711 Main Street. Each of these homes joins a list of more than a dozen such designated properties in the central city. The three homes qualified for Landmark Property designation due to their sharing elements of time, place and personage that reflects some importance to the cultural, geographic and social development of our city.

The specifics of each home’s history was presented to the Council prior to its voting on the designations. There are no restrictions placed on the properties by the award of the designation. Each homeowner is awarded a landmark property plaque for placement on their home and is issued a proclamation by the mayor.

707 Main Street

Schertz City Council On The Go Townhall Meeting Feb. 16 at 6:30 pm The North Center, 3501 Morning Drive, Schertz 711 Main Street

More information to come in February’s Schertz Magazine.

Looking Back Schertz Pkwy Street Lights Now Working

January

Quote of Note “History is a gallery of pictures in which there are few originals and many copies” Author – Alexis de Tocqueville (1856)

Local History

Schertz Parkway is looking brighter these days – and nights – thanks to an alert public.

The City of Schertz has signed a contract with an electric company to fix the current issues and also to be on call to do emergency and quarterly repairs.

Prior to this, the City repaired these lights but without a certified electrician on staff and an aging bucket truck that is no longer able to be used safely, it was determined that it was time to outsource this service.

The only lights that the City is responsible for are those

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along Schertz Parkway, the other street lights throughout the city are owned and maintained by the electricity service providers. With the City’s responsibility only being these few lights along the Parkway, it was much more efficient to outsource these as well.

Doug Letbetter, Public Works Manager, said contractors and Public Works crews are working diligently to make sure all Schertz Parkway street lights between IH-35 and FM 78 are shining brightly.

In addition, the City encourages anyone who sees a problem with any street lights or any other issues to please call 311 and report them.

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On January 3, 1849, Sebastian and John Schertz, sons of Joseph Schertz, purchased 600 acres of land in Guadalupe County (A. S. Lewis Survey) situated on the northeast bank of Cibolo Creek (Survey #78, Sect. 5).

The deed record shows the brothers living on the property. This land purchase may have been the beginning event of what would become known as Cibolo Pit, Cut Off, and eventually Schertz, Texas.

Texas History

In January 1688, Karankawa Indians finished off colonists at Fort St. Louis following much disease and malnutrition. Steven F. Austin received a grant from the Mexican government and began colonization in the region of the Brazos River (January 3, 1823).

The Battle of Galveston (January 1, 1863) restored the island to Texas control for the remainder of the Civil War. The discovery of “black gold” at the Spindletop oil field near Beaumont launched Texas into a century of oil exploration.

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

CITY

CALENDARZ

Annual Events: February

Trail Rider Lunch Thursday, February 11

March

Wilenchik Walk for Life 5K Saturday, March 5

April

Jazz N’ Blues in the Park Saturday, April 9 Volunteer Fair Thursday, April 14

May

Sweetheart Coronation Thursday, May 5

January 2016 Monday, 4

Library Advisory Board, 7:00 PM Library Meeting Room 1

Tuesday, 5

City Council, 6:00 PM Council Chamber

Thursday, 7

TSAC, 5:30 PM City Council Chambers

Tuesday, 12

City Council, 6:00 PM Council Chamber

Wednesday, 13

Planning & Zoning, 6:00 PM Council Chambers

Monday, 18

City Holiday MLK Day (City Offices Closed)

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

#info

Monday, 25

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

Tuesday, 26

City Council, 6:00 PM Council Chamber

Wednesday, 27

Planning & Zoning, 6:00 PM Council Chambers

Thursday, 28

EDC Board, 6:00 PM Council Chambers

Meeting locations may change, please visit the calendar at www.schertz.com for more information.

Schertz City Council 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

PUBLIC AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT 1400 SCHERTZ PARKWAY SCHERTZ, TEXAS 78154