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Northeast San Antonio Metrocom Edition VOLUME 3, ISSUE 3 DEC. 13, 2023 JAN. 17, 2024
Judson ISD increased its starting salary for teachers by more than 10% since the 2021 22 school year as part of its e orts to recruit and retain educators.
COURTESY JUDSON ISD
Area school districts work to ll teacher vacancies
Kitty Hawk academic coach Mindy Jones said one of the biggest challenges for teachers is working within the hours of the workday, which requires teachers to plan, grade and do other preparation.
Districts such as Judson ISD, Schertz-Cibo- lo-Universal City ISD, Northeast ISD and Northside ISD have looked toward alternative ways to hire additional teachers, including the ability to hire teachers with degrees but without certi cation.
BY JARRETT WHITENER
Due to teacher shortages across the region, San Antonio school district o cials have worked to increase wages, bene ts and other incentives to attract and retain teaching sta .
CONTINUED ON 12
Also in this issue
Impacts: Eatery experience Axeshack opens in Cibolo (Page 6)
Government: Cibolo shelter saves nearly 100% dogs, cats (Page 8)
Dining: Randy G’s scoops up homemade ice cream (Page 17)
Events: Find some holiday cheer at these light displays (Page 21)
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
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NORTHEAST SAN ANTONIO METROCOM EDITION
is now a 4-Star Accredited Chamber of Commerce! The Chamber (Schertz-Cibolo-Selma Area) CONGRATULATIONS!
Approximately 7,000 chambers exist in the United States and only 199 Chambers carry this distinction. Accreditation is a prestigious honor that distinguishes the high quality, expertise, and strong leadership displayed by Accredited state and local chambers of commerce.
Interested in becoming a part of our Membership?
210-619-1952
From The Chamber Staff
thechamber.info
1730 Schertz Pkwy, Schertz or 9374 Valhalla, Selma
HEALTHY TIPS
As holiday festivities are near, Metro Health is encouraging the community to stay healthy while preparing for the upcoming celebrations and family gatherings. • Balance your meals. Make everyday a celebration by eating well and feeling great! • Ensure food safety. Make sure all meals are safe to eat to avoid food poisioning. • Stay up to date with routine vaccinations. For the first time ever, vaccines are available for all three major fall and winter respiratory diseases-flu, COVID-19, and RSV.
• Stay home if you feel sick. To avoid spreading viruses to others, consider skipping gatherings, especially if individuals who are at risk will be present.
For more information visit, SanAntonio.gov/Health
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Owners John and Jennifer Garrett launched Community Impact in 2005, and the company is still locally owned today with editions across Texas. Our mission is to provide trusted news and local information that everyone gets. Our vision is to build communities of informed citizens and thriving businesses through the collaboration of a passionate team. Our purpose is to be a light for our readers, customers, partners and each other by living out our core values of Faith, Passion, Quality, Innovation and Integrity. About Community Impact
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NORTHEAST SAN ANTONIO METROCOM EDITION
Impacts
2 Thrifty Hippie Commu nity Store A new non-profit has opened a thrift store in Universal City. Thrifty Hippie supports food, clothing and accessibility needs in the surrounding area. Clothing and other household items can be donated to the store. • Opened Dec. 4 • 118 Wright Blvd., Universal City • 210-394-7960 3 Chick-fil -A The opening date for the Chick-fil-A in Cibolo has been announced. The restaurant broke ground in June, with the location being built in a new development along Cibolo Valley Drive. Chick-fil-A offers a selection of chicken based products including salads, sandwiches, wraps and more. The Cibolo location is under the same ownership as the Schertz location. • Opened Nov. 30 • 855 Cibolo Valley Drive, Cibolo • www.chick-fil-a.com
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Coming soon
MAIN ST.
4 Andy’s Froze n Cu stard A national dessert chain will be making its way to Cibolo. For more than 37 years, Andy’s has offered desserts across the country, according to the business website. Popular items at the restaurant include malts, sundaes and more. • Opening TBD • 778 Cibolo Valley Drive, Cibolo • www.eatandys.com 5 Gr eat C lips Haircut services will be brought to a new development off Cibolo Valley Drive with the opening of a new Great Clips location. Great Clips offers styling services and haircut services for all ages. • Opening TBD • 813 Cibolo Valley Drive, Ste. 116, Cibolo • www.greatclips.com 6 Buffalo Valley D ental A new dental office is opening in Cibolo, bringing a variety of dentistry services to the community. Services at the business include cosmetic dentistry, restorative
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open in the restaurant. Multiple ax-throwing games can be played at the business, such as tic-tac-toe, battle axes, connect four and more. • Opened Oct. 28 • 313 Schneider Drive, Cibolo • www.axeshacktx.com
Now Open
1 Axeshack A new eatery and entertainment venue has opened in Cibolo. Axeshack features pizza, salad, appetizers and desserts. A full-service bar with crafted cocktails is also
Get-togethers are wonderful, except when the flu tags along. Fortunately, Next Level Urgent Care can quickly and affordably treat your cold and flu symptoms. What’s even better, we provide extended hours on nights and weekends for quick relief.
Scan for the nearest location. Open 9am – 9pm, 7 days a week nextlevelurgentcare.com
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY JARRETT WHITENER
Now open
Coming soon
In the news
7 The Kiddi e Academ y of Cibolo The academy offers child care and education for ages 6 months-12 years. A health curriculum is also available for all ages. According to the business website, Kiddie Academy focuses education on helping children develop traits surrounding character, confidence, curiosity, connection, critical thinking and creative expression. • Opened Oct. 30 • 17744 Ripps Kreusler Road, Schertz • www.kiddieacademy.com/academies/cibolo
9 Aviator 1518 A partnership between the Schertz Housing Authority and The NRP Group resulted in the groundbreaking of a new affordable apartment community in Schertz. According to a Nov. 3 release, the development will include 300 units with up to four-bedroom floor plans. Rent will range from $706-$2,245 per month. Amenities include a playground, pool, clubhouse and fitness center. • Opening 2026 • 9120 E. FM 1518 N., Schertz • www.nrpgroup.com
11 Old Main Ice House On Nov. 9, Old Main Ice House suffered a major fire, which burned the interior of the building. The business will undergo repairs and re-open at a later date. As of publication time, the cause of the fire is under investigation. In the meantime, the owner of the business requests that patrons support the Bar House and The Hidden Grove, located on Main Street in Schertz. Live music events will be moved to The Hidden Grove.
• 110 N. Main Street, Cibolo • www.oldmainicehouse.com
dentistry, emergency dental care and other oral health needs. The practice is led by dentist Shikha Nandal. Appointments can be made online. • Opening December • 778 Cibolo Valley Drive Ste. 119, Cibolo • www.buffalovalleydentalcare.com
• Relocated Nov. 21 • 108 Cibolo Drive, Cibolo • www.cibolotx.gov
• Bunker Street and FM 482 • www.schertz.com/191/Parks-Recreation
12 The Chamber (Sch ertz-Ci bolo-Selma) The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has awarded The Chamber (Schertz-Cibolo-Selma Area) with its designation of Accredited with 4 Stars for its sound policies, effective organizational procedures and positive impact on the community. As of November, there are about 7,000 chambers in the United States, and 199 of those chambers are accredited. • 1730 Schertz Parkway, Schertz • www.thechamber.info
In the News
10 S chertz P ark at Dry Comal Creek The city of Schertz and the Great Springs Project have partnered to create a new yet-to-be-named park that will be located at Bunker Street and FM 482. According to a Nov. 13 news release, the park will abut the historic St. Joseph’s cemetery. The 10.5-acre park will provide trail connectivity to the Great Springs Trail, which aims to connect the springs between Austin and San Antonio according to the organization’s website.
Relocation
8 Cibolo Public Works The Cibolo Public Works Department was relocated to new offices. According to the city website, the public works department consists of 57 employees dedicated to providing maintenance and repair to the city’s infrastructure.
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NORTHEAST SAN ANTONIO METROCOM EDITION
Government
BY JARRETT WHITENER
Council to use $9M in bond funds for 9 projects Cibolo City Council approved a resolution Nov. 14 authorizing a plan to purchase certificates of obligation in an amount not to exceed $9 million. Council also approved a resolution allowing use of Certificates of Obligation. The details The bond funds would cover nine projects outlined in the resolution, with work on Lower Seguin Road using the largest cut of the funds at nearly $3.82 million. What’s next? With the approval of the resolution, public notices are required to be published prior to the sale. The certificates of obligation are scheduled to be issued in January with proceeds delivered in February.
Cibolo shelter saves 96.2% of dogs, cats In 2022, the Cibolo Animal Services shelter saved more than 90%—the nationally recognized benchmark to be considered “no-kill”—of the dogs and cats that entered the facility, according to an Oct. 20 release. “Our hard-working employees and volunteers ... devote their time to ensuring the animals in our community are cared for and rescued from dangerous situations,” Cibolo Chief of Police Thedrick Andres said in the release.
Cibolo bond projects
Total: $9 Million*
Lower Seguin Road: $3.82M Fire fleet-ladder truck: $1.8M Fire fleet-engine/pumper: $1M Land acquisition: $900K
Park improvements: $750K Public works fleet: $391K Change in cost for three road projects: $141K Loose equipment-fire truck: $101K Deer Creek low water crossing gates: $100K
302 saved
153 saved
315 dogs entered
158 cats entered
* VALUES ARE ROUNDED
SOURCE: BEST FRIENDS ANIMAL SOCIETY/COMMUNITY IMPACT
SOURCE: CITY OF CIBOLO/COMMUNITY IMPACT
Now Hiring! Veterans Caring for Veterans Northeast San Antonio Area - 210.951.0702 Meet Mr. Eddie Thomas, Veteran and Visiting Angels Care Giver
Why did you choose Visiting Angels of Northeast San Antonio? Everyone, especially our Veterans deserve our respect, love and compassion. Led by Veterans, Letty and Lee, there is not a better organization that truly cares about all their clients and employees. What is the best thing about your job? I always ask myself what would I need if it was me needing care. The best thing you can do is be available and treat people with respect. If we all did this the world would be in a better place. You have to have a good attitude, love what you do and I do. I love going to work every day and making a difference. “After serving in the Air Force, I worked in health care for another 19 years overseeing the operations for two medical clinics where I had 44 employees. I love helping people so after retiring a second time, I was looking for an opportunity to help people.” Visiting Angels of NE SA Team is currently hiring Veterans who desire to be Caregivers and want to give back to the community. Veteran Owned and Operated. 2022 - 2023 Employer and Provider of Choice
Northeast San Antonio
Mr. Eddie Thomas, US Air Force SMSgt. / Served 22 Years
Visiting Angels of Northeast San Antonio Team.
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Education
BY JARRETT WHITENER
Judson ISD board of trustees approves vaping deterrents
SCUCISD continues search for top official By mid-December, Schertz-Cibolo-Uni- versal City ISD trustees had conducted two rounds of interviews for the superintendent role, according to the Texas Association of School Board’s Executive Search Services. Following the selection of a lone finalist on Dec. 19, the district must wait 21 days before voting to hire the candidate. The vote is slated for Jan. 10. Superintendent Clark Ealy’s last day as superintendent will be Jan. 31.
Deterring vaping
50 sensors to be installed
16 sensors at each high school
$144,260 in General Fund money
Due to concerns related to vaping at secondary campuses, the Judson ISD Board of Trustees on Nov. 16 unanimously approved measures that serve as vaping deterrents. These measures included the purchase of vape sensors which are to be installed at the three comprehensive high schools within the district, which includes Judson High School, Veterans High School and Wagner High School. The details With the approval of the sensors, 50 will be purchased with 16 placed at each school, leaving two extra sensors should they be needed. The total cost of the 50 sensors is $144,260 which includes the installation of the devices, which will be paid through the General Fund. The
SOURCE: JUDSON ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT
total cost also includes the installation of cages around the sensor to help deter tampering from students. Assistant Superintendent of Technology Lacey Gosch said the sensors will work in tandem with the security cameras on campus, meaning that if a sensor in a restroom detects vape, the hallway cameras outside of that restroom will capture the footage of students entering and exiting the restroom during the detection period. “[The sensors] are also adjustable within each bathroom to detect things from sound all the way to the amount of vape or non vape that it would detect,” Gosch said.
Hiring timeline Dec. 12-14: second round of interview held Dec. 19: lone finalist to be named Jan. 10: scheduled vote to hire meeting Jan. 31: Clark Ealy’s last day as superintendent
SOURCE: SCUCISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT
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5624 Randolph Blvd., San Antonio, TX 78233 210-773-4430 • TheRiverSA.Com msprings@satx.rr.com
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Transportation
BY JARRETT WHITENER
Upcoming project
Upcoming project
Upcoming project
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Schertz Main Street improvements The project includes design work by Kimley- Horn and Associates and is in the early stages of the process. A consultant is coordinating with utility companies to ensure utilities are relocated, according to a Schertz City Council update. The project will improve sidewalks, provide street lighting, replace aging water and sewer lines and more. • Timeline: TBD • Cost: $2,173,905 • Funding source: General obligation bonds
Schertz Parkway and Lookout Road signalization The project will construct a new traffic signal to replace the current multi-way stop, which will improve the operational efficiency of the intersection and reduce traffic backup during peak hours. This project is shared between Schertz and Selma. • Timeline: TBD • Cost: $571,000 • Funding source: Schertz EDC, city of Selma
Lower Seguin Road project Schertz City Council on Nov.14 approved a Task Order Agreement with Halff Associates, Inc., not to exceed amount of $985,000.00 for the preliminary design and engineering services for the Lower Seguin Road Reconstruction project. Reconstruction of the roadway would include widening the pavement, drainage improvements and adding pedestrian facilities. • Timeline: TBD • Cost: $985,000 (task order) • Funding source: Schertz General Fund
Spotlight your featured business ad in the
ANNUAL COMMUNITY GUIDE
SALESSUPPORT@COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Real estate
Number of homes sold
October 2022
October 2023
Residential market data
15 8
12 17
-46.67%
+41.67%
78266
78148
Median home sales prices were on the rise for most of the Northeast Metrocom. ZIP codes 78266 and 78148 were the exceptions.
39 26
47 24
-33.33%
-48.94%
78154
78233
35
84 69
-17.9%
78108
Median home sales price
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2023
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78266
-6.12%
$360,950
$384,500
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78154
+9.26%
$371,495
$340,000
78108
78266 78154 78233 78148
78108
+6.38%
$375,000
$352,500
MARKET DATA PROVIDED BY THE SAN ANTONIO BOARD OF REALTORS • 9110 W. I 10 210 593 1200 • WWW.SABOR.COM
78148
-15.72%
$260,000
$308,500
78233
+5.19%
$273,500
$260,000
WATER EMERGENCY TIPS
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KNOW YOUR PIPES KNOW YOUR PIPES
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Visit SAWS.org/BeReady
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NORTHEAST SAN ANTONIO METROCOM EDITION
From the cover
Area school districts work to ll teacher vacancies
BY JARRETT WHITENER
The speci cs
Two-minute Impact
Teacher vacancies
JISD and SCUCISD sta said special education and bilingual teachers are the most di cult roles to ll due to the special certi cations needed. SCUCISD Chief Human Resources O cer Linda Cannon said district o cials are working to imple- ment more onboarding processes and recruitment opportunities to nd new teachers. “It has been most di cult to nd special edu- cation teachers,” Cannon said. “There are fewer applicants for these positions as well as [di culty] meeting the certi cation requirements.” In the 2022-23 school year, there were 371,650 Texas teachers, according to data from the Texas Education Agency, but, 49,782 teachers left their jobs and 51,001 new teachers were hired. JISD and SCUCISD are districts of innovation, which allows them to hire teachers that are degreed, but not certi ed. Through this program, districts can recruit new teachers and help them gain certi cation and classroom experience. JISD Chief Communications O cer Nicole
Across the region, districts have stayed competitive by increasing teacher salaries, according to district o cials. Judson, North East, Northside and Schertz- Cibolo-Universal City ISDs have each enacted historical raises since the height of COVID-19 pandemic, according to budgets. The Teacher Vacancy Task Force, established by Gov. Greg Abbott in 2022, recommended policies in February to address teacher vacancies citing pay as a top priority. But local districts are operating at budget shortfalls and will not be able to sustain pay increases each year at the existing level, o cials said during meetings. “Recurring costs cannot continue to dump into the general fund,” JISD trustee Suzanne Kenoyer said in June. “We can’t take out a fund balance every year in a de cit budget.”
65 vacancies
7 vacancies
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Taguinod said substitute teachers also may assist with classes that don’t have a dedicated teacher. “Having a di erent person in the classroom throughout the year has an impact on our younger kids especially, because they do not get that consistency,” Taguinod said.
Starting teacher salaries
2021-22 2023-24
10.4%
4.55%
5.07%
What they’re saying
60K 50K 40K 30K 20K 10K 0
6.06%
“Education 20 years ago is di erent than it is now. Sometimes teachers feel like we are on an island by ourselves. We are trying to be
“Attendance at traditional job fairs has been lower, and it seems there are
fewer candidates taking the traditional college route of becoming a teacher.” LINDA CANNON, SCUCISD CHIEF HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICER
the best for the students.” MINDY JONES, ACADEMIC COACH AT KITTY HAWK MIDDLE SCHOOL
SCUCISD
JISD
NEISD
NISD
SOURCES: SCHERTZ CIBOLO UNIVERSAL CITY ISD, JUDSON ISD COMMUNITY IMPACT
Going forward
are encouraged to apply for substitute and paraprofessional roles within the district or recommend others to the programs o ered. “We will provide support if you are trying to get a speci c certi cation,” Taguinod said. “We want to welcome retirees back. We want our substitutes to know they are a consistent part of someone’s school day, and we want to provide the best academic experience for our students.”
also worked with JISD to advocate for a healthy working environment for teachers, Taguinod said. SCUCISD o cials are working on the creation of a “Grow Your Own” teacher program, which supports local education agencies and helps candidates move to full-time teaching roles. With a focus on building teachers from within the districts, community support is requested by district sta . Members of the community
While compensation is one of the most important pieces of hiring and retention, districts are also considering other bene ts. According to district o cials, bene ts under review include: • Work/life balance • Dedicated planning time • Increased bene its Teacher task forces and other groups have
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RECTOR 819 E Rector Dr (210) 340-2244
LIVE OAK 14623 IH-35 N (210) 651-1911
LEGACY 2003 N Loop 1604 E (210) 494-8600
STONE OAK 23026 US Hwy 281 N (210) 497-1322
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Dining
BY JARRETT WHITENER
The average American consumes around 20 pounds of ice cream each year, according to data from the International Dairy Foods Association. According to an IDFA survey, most ice cream companies are family owned, and help contribute around 29,000 direct jobs across the country. In 2021, Randy Gentry and his family opened a new ice cream shop in Schertz with the hopes of providing the community with unique ice cream Randy G’s o ers custom, hand-crafted ice cream with seasonal avors
avors to enjoy. The background
Prior to the creation of Randy G’s Homemade Ice Cream, the Gentry family was involved with In atable Wonderland in Rolling Oaks Mall. Gentry said the uncertainty of COVID-19 and its impact on indoor playgrounds and activities where it was di cult to utilize social distancing prompted him to explore other opportunities, which led to the creation of the ice cream shop. “I went the homemade route because I wanted to keep the creative process and be able to make di erent avors,” Gentry said. “I could have ordered from a larger company, but we really wanted to make something special.” With that goal in mind, Gentry took o to Flor- ida to learn more about the ice-cream-making craft before returning to Schertz to open the business. What’s special about it? Flavors at Randy G’s rotate each season, bring- ing new and unique avors to customers such as a Little Debbie inspired Christmas Tree avor and one inspired by Abuelita’s hot chocolate. “Each season, we try out new avors to match the time of year,” Gentry said. “In the spring, we do more fruity avors ... . Sometimes they are a one-hit wonder, and sometimes they come back another year.” Alongside seasonal avors, the shop o ers a selection of staples that includes classics, such as chocolate and vanilla, as well as custom avors, such as banana pudding and caramel brownie. Gentry said he makes new avors based on community feedback, and draws inspiration from items found at the grocery store. “We are making homemade ice cream,” Gentry said. “Grocery stores have to put in stabilizers and chemicals to keep it from shifting and melting, and we don’t have to do that. Pretty much what the avor says is all that is in the ice cream.”
Randy G’s Homemade Ice Cream o ers a selection of custom avors that rotate each season.
PHOTOS COURTESY RANDY G’S HOMEMADE ICE CREAM
Cookies and cream is one of the shop’s popular avors.
Randy Gentry opened the business in 2021.
Going forward The business expanded to Universal City and Bracken, but the Universal City shop was sold. Gentry said his goal is to expand, but not to franchise, which would be di cult to maintain. “The Pat Booker location started as Randy G’s, and the Bracken location is Randy G’s, but eventu- ally we want to get into the training and consulting business where people do not have to go to Florida to learn how to make this type of ice cream.”
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1420 Schertz Parkway, Ste. 240, Schertz 18817 FM 2252, San Antonio www.facebook.com/randygsicecream78154
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NORTHEAST SAN ANTONIO METROCOM EDITION
State
BY KELLY SCHAFLER
Tela Goodwin Mange explains role of Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation The Texas Department of Licensing and Reg- ulation is the licensing entity for 38 different professions in Texas, ranging from barbers and cosmetologists to electricians and air conditioning contractors. In addition to licensing, the agency ensures these businesses are providing safe condi- tions and accessibility for consumers, Communi- cations Manager Tela Goodwin Mange said. Additionally, commercial projects and other projects such as churches and hospitals must be reported to the agency’s project registration database, which Community Impact uses to identify new openings or business renovations in our communities. The following interview with Goodwin Mange has been edited for length and clarity. Who has to register with the TDLR? If [the project costs] $50,000 or more, they have to register that with TDLR, and they have to provide a full set of construction documents to a person who’s known as a registered accessibility specialist. [We] will review those construction documents to make sure that construction project is going to meet the Texas Accessibility Standards, which is kind of a Texas version of the [Americans with Disabilities Act], because we want to make sure that all Texans are able to access a building. ... If the total project expenditure is less than $50,000, they’re not required to submit that information or that project to TDLR for regis- tration and review, but there are certain times where they still have to meet the accessibility standard. So just because it’s less than $50,000, just because they aren’t required to submit the project, they still have to proceed assuming that they’re going to have to adhere to those standards anyway, because again, everybody should be able to access those areas. What types of industries aren’t regulated by the TDLR? Plumbers are not regulated by us; doctors are not; dentists are not; physical therapists are not. There are a number of industries that we don’t regulate that are regulated by other state agencies.
Navigating the site The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation’s website has various tools residents can use to learn more about businesses who violated TDLR standards as well as who is licensed with the agency.
Searching for TDLR violators
Go to the TDLR website and select “search site.”
Visitors can search by license program type, company name, licensee name, city, county or ZIP code. Under “search for violations,” visitors can find the list of violators who have been adjudicated for the last two fiscal years.
Searching for TDLR licensees
Go to the TDLR website and select “search site.”
What does registering with the TDLR look like? They have to go through the licensing process, which includes a criminal background check. Certain industries that we regulate require people to provide fingerprints to get their criminal background done; others it’s name based. Certain other industries, we do risk-based inspections, which means if someone has had issues in the past, we will add them to the list of people who absolutely, positively have to get inspected. There are others that we will do an inspection, everything’s fine and we don’t consider them to be a potential risk. ... If a consumer files a complaint that they were injured or that there’s some issue where [the business is] not complying with state law and with the administrative rules, then we will in addition to doing an investigation—often we’ll end up doing an inspection as well. What kind of complaint could someone file about a business? It’s going to vary on the type of license that’s involved. If you were to go to a barbershop or a cosmetology salon and you hate your haircut, ... we’re not going to open a complaint on that. But if you went to a barbershop or a cosmetology salon, and you got an infection that your phy- sician said, ... ‘You got this because that salon or that barbershop wasn’t clean,’ then that’s definitely something that we want to know about, and there would be an investigation. We encourage folks to file a complaint if there’s something that they feel was health and safety related, or if you feel like you got scammed. That’s something that we would want to look
If a business is under the TDLR umbrella but not on the list, call TDLR customer support at 800-803-9202 to get assistance to verify if the business is registered. Under “search licensees,” visitors can find the list of individuals who have a license with the TDLR.
SOURCE: TELA GOODWIN MANGE/COMMUNITY IMPACT
into. ... Anytime that you file a complaint, include as much information as you can. ... Consumers who are [going to] hire anyone who is in a profession that’s licensed by TDLR, we urge them to check and make sure, is this person licensed, and have they had any admin- istrative penalties in the last couple of years? ... In certain situations, if you do business with someone who’s unlicensed—like, for example, if you hire an electrician who is not licensed and they end up doing something that burns your house down—the insurance company may not pay your claim because by hiring someone who’s unlicensed, you’re not complying with what the insurance company requires, which is that you hire someone who’s licensed and competent to perform that work. Is there anything else our readers should know? We’re ... not the only licensing entity in the state, but if you go to our website, you can see all the dif- ferent programs that we license. If the service that you’re looking for is included in one of those, please do check and make sure that they are licensed.
18
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Election
BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF
Macaluso, Westbrook to serve on Schertz council Schertz City Council received two new members following the results of the Nov. 7 election. Paul Macaluso won the Place 3 race with 64.10% of reported votes, and Tyrone Taylor received 35.90% of votes. In the Place 5 race, Robert M. Westbrook received 65.31% of votes, and Paul J. Kendzior received 34.69%. In the race for Place 4, Tiffany M. Gibson led with 46.16% of votes. Despite Gibson having the most votes, she did not hit the majority needed to win the race, resulting in a runoff election with the second highest vote getter. Gibson will run against Michael Armstrong, who received 22.57% of reported votes. Danielle Craig had 17.75% of reported votes, and Robert Carl Marks, Jr. had 13.52%. What’s next? Following the canvassing of votes on Nov. 20, Macaluso and Westbrook were sworn in, replacing Jill Whittaker and David Scagliola, respectively. Each will serve until 2026. The winner of the runoff election will also serve until 2026. Texas voters approve 13 state propositions Over 2.5 million Texans voted in the Nov. 7 election, according to a news release from the Texas Secretary of State. Texas voters approved 13 of 14 proposed amendments to the Texas Constitution. Constitutional amendment elections occur when state lawmakers adopt legislation that could change the state Constitution during a regular or specially called legislative session. Voters rejected Proposition 13, opting to maintain the mandatory retirement period for state justices and judges, which is 70-75 years old. The proposition asked voters to raise the retirement age to 75-79. Texas Supreme Court Chief Justice Nathan Hecht is 74 years old. The proposition failed with 37.31% of votes for and 62.69% against.
Carlin wins SCUCISD’s school board seat Information technology professional Margaret Carlin won a two-way race for a Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City ISD board post during the Nov. 7 election. What happened According to results from Bexar and Guadalupe counties, Carlin tallied 55.7% of the vote, beating Alberto Ramirez, a U.S. Air Force retiree and current real estate agent, for Place 2 in SCUCISD’s lone contested election. What they’re saying “For so many of you who have helped me, I couldn’t have done this without you,” Carlin said in a statement to Community Impact. “I am humbled to have earned your support, votes and confidence.”
Results
64.10% Paul Macaluso: 2,203 votes 35.90% Tyrone Taylor: 1,234 votes 46.16% Tiffany M. Gibson: 1,540 votes 22.57% Michael Armstrong: 753 votes 17.75% Danielle Craig: 592 votes 13.52% Robert Carl Marks, Jr.: 451 votes 65.31% Robert M. Westbrook: 2,237 votes 34.69% Paul Kendzior: 1,188 votes
SOURCE: CITY OF SCHERTZ
3 elected to Green Valley Special Utility District Shari McDaniel, Robert “Bob” Roberson and Nicholas A. Sherman won the three open seats on the Green Valley Special Utility District board of directors, according to election results from Bexar County, Comal County and Guadalupe County. Newcomer McDaniel was the top vote-getter with 1,478 votes, or 33.14%, in the race, while incumbents Roberson and Sherman received 1,005 and 1,203 votes, or 22.53% and 26.97%, respectively. A fourth candidate, Joey Neve, received 774 votes, or 17.35%. “I would like to thank all my amazing family, friends and neighbors who have supported me during this campaign,” McDaniel said in a state- ment to Community Impact. “Without all of you, this win wouldn’t have been possible.” “I appreciate the residents of Schertz having the faith in me to select me for this office,” Macaluso said. “I promise you I will always make the deci- sions that I think are best for the citizens.” During the swearing-in ceremony, Westbrook thanked all of the people who supported him on his journey from being a Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City ISD board of trustees member to being on Schertz City Council. “I really do support the citizens and residents of Schertz for giving me the opportunity and [trusting] in me to serve on city council,” West- brook said. “I hope that everyone will hold me accountable.” The runoff election that has Gibson facing Armstrong for Place 4 was scheduled for Dec. 9, which was after press time for this edition.
Results
56% Margaret Carlin: 1,837 votes 44% Alberto Ramirez: 1,461 votes
SOURCE: BEXAR, COMAL AND GUADALUPE COUNTIES
Results
Incumbent
Winner
22.53% Robert “Bob” Roberson: 1,005 votes
26.97% Nicholas A. Sherman: 1,203 votes
17.35% Joey Neve: 774 votes
33.14% Shari McDaniel: 1,478 votes
SOURCE: BEXAR, COMAL AND GUADALUPE COUNTIES
The context The Green Valley Special Utility District services sections of Marion, Cibolo, Seguin, New Braunfels and Schertz, providing water and wastewater services to those connections. The board of directors meets each month to discuss Green Valley Special Utility District business and make decisions about company operations. The seven directors serve three-year terms. Roberson and Sherman had been elected in 2020.
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NORTHEAST SAN ANTONIO METROCOM EDITION
Events
BY JARRETT WHITENER
Reindeer Dash 5K The YMCA of Greater San Antonio will host a holiday 5K run and a Rudolph Kids Dash at O.P. Schnabel Park. Attendees of all ages can get active through running or walking. The event, which benefits the Y’s Open Doors scholarship program, includes holiday music, Santa and vendors. • Dec. 16, 7:30 a.m. • $25 (kids), $45 (adults) • 9606 Bandera Road, San Antonio
Polar Bear Plunge The Schertz Family YMCA is partnering with Cold for a Cause to host the annual Polar Bear Plunge. Community members can take a dip in a cold pool to help raise money for the Y’s Open Doors scholarship program, which provides financial assistance for quality
child care, youth programs and health and wellness services. • Jan. 6, 10 a.m.-noon • $20 • Pickrell Park Pool, 703 Oak St., Schertz • www.ymcasatx.org/polarbearplunge
• www.ymcasatx.org/reindeer -dash-5k-rudolph-kids-dash
Winter MakerCamp The Schertz Library invites school-age children to participate in four days of daily maker challenges using art supplies, craft tools and recycled materials. Children should be able to work independently. • Dec. 26-29, 1-3 p.m. • Free • Schertz Library, 798 Schertz Parkway, Schertz • www.schertz.com Dallas Boston Xperience Blue Bonnet Palace will host the Dallas Boston Xperience, a Dallas-based Boston tribute band, that will perform popular songs such as “More Than a Feeling.” Concert-goers must be age 21 or older.
• Dec. 30, 8 p.m. • $5 • Blue Bonnet Palace, 17630 Lookout Road, Selma • www.bluebonnetpalace.com San Antonio new year The San Antonio Parks Foundation hosts the Annual Celebrate SA New Year’s Eve event. This event features live entertainment, carnival rides, food and artisan vendors, and fireworks. • Dec. 31, 6 p.m.-midnight • Free (admission) • Hemisfair Park, 434 S. Alamo St., San Antonio • www.saparksfoundation.org/event-location/hemisfair
December
Snowball 5K/1K Morgan’s Wonderland will celebrate accessibility and inclusion at the Snowball 5K/1K. The route will start at Morgan’s Sports Complex, making its way through Morgan’s Wonderland, and around the Multi-Assistance Center. Registration includes a custom race bib, a snowball T-shirt and ornament, fundraising page and one free admission to Morgan’s Wonderland for 2024. • Dec. 16, 7 a.m. • $45 (5K), $40 (1K) • Morgan’s Wonderland, 5223 David Edwards Dr., San Antonio • www.morganswonderland.org/snowball
Christmas Services December 24th One Service 11:00am Candelight service 5pm
Samoan Church 1:30 pm
Wednesday Services
20
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Community
BY EDMOND ORTIZ & TRICIA SCHWENNESEN
Holiday Events Guide
2023
Several communities, businesses and organizations celebrate the holiday season with events and exhibits filled with Christmas lights and illuminated displays.
December
Light the Way The University of the Incarnate Word will host the 37th Light the Way event. Visitors may see hundreds of thousands of Christmas lights cast across the campus. The lights are turned on each night. • Nightly through Jan. 6 • Free admission • 4301 Broadway St., San Antonio • www.uiw.edu/lighttheway Campfire Lights McGimsey Scout Park is hosting a holiday drive-thru light show, featuring characters, symbols and other seasonal displays. • Through Dec. 30, Thu. and Sun., 6-10 p.m.; Fri. and Sat., 6-11 p.m. • $30-$40 per vehicle • 10810 Wedgewood Drive, Castle Hills • www.campfirelights.org Windcrest Christmas Light-Up A decades-old tradition, Windcrest residents are invited to decorate their homes with interesting displays of holiday lights. Dozens of participants compete in a variety of categories. Resident contest winners and participants are highlighted in a free map
The South Pole Residents may visit The South Pole, an illuminated holiday experience where visitors can drive through lighted tunnels and displays while Christmas music plays across the park.
• Daily through Jan. 8, 6-10 p.m. • Admission: Mon.-Thu. $30 per car, Fri.-Sun. $35 per car • 5135 N. Loop 1604 E., San Antonio • www.thesouthpolesa.com
Hendrix Family Holiday Light Show The Cibolo-based Hendrix family is again offering their homegrown holiday light display, synchronized to music and open to the community. Motorists are asked to drive slow and carefully in front of the Hendrix property and dim their lights. • Daily through Jan. 2, 4-10 p.m. • Free • 332 Blaze Moon, Cibolo • www.facebook.com/hendrixholidaylights Christmas at the Caverns Stroll a 1/3 trail of lights or listen to classic carols inside Natural Bridge Caverns. Visitors can also check out Santa’s reindeer, listen to a story with Mrs. Claus, grab a s’mores or cocoa, and take a photo with Santa. • Dec. 23, and Dec. 26-30 • Prices vary from $17.99 up to $46.99 • 26495 Natural Bridge Caverns Road, San Antonio • www.naturalbridgecaverns.com/christmas Holiday Lights on the River Walk Take a stroll along San Antonio’s famous River Walk where more than 100,000 lights have been draped over the tall, bald cypress trees. Check the schedule and you may even see river boat carolers singing along the walk. • Through dawn on Jan. 7 • Free • Downtown along the San Antonio River • www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com/events/holiday- lights-on-the-river-walk-free
SeaWorld Christmas Celebration The San Antonio theme park is transformed into a wintry wonderland. Guests can explore the park, which has millions of lights and features Christmas shows about the Nativity and a Sesame Street parade. • Through Jan. 2 • Single day park tickets start at $49.99; 3 and younger are free • 10500 SeaWorld Drive, San Antonio • www.seaworld.com/san-antonio/events/christmas Six Flags Holiday in the Park Six Flags Fiesta Texas gets decked out in its holiday finest where guests can take part on a holiday themed Looney Toons Meet and Greet or check out the fountains and lights timed to the sounds of the season. The park also offers seasonal treats and merchandise. • Through Jan. 7 • Single day park tickets start at $50 Zoo Lights Guests can explore miles of lights and hear festive music throughout the San Antonio Zoo, which has been transformed with Polar Playground, Candy Lane, Peppermint Path and a new Lakeside Laser Lightshow. • Through Dec. 31 • $27.99 children 3-11; $31.99 adults 12+ ; $26.99 seniors 65+ • 3903 N. St. Mary’s St., San Antonio • www.sazoo.org • 17000 IH-10 West, San Antonio • www.sixflags.com/fiestatexas
found at City Hall. • Through Dec. 31 • Free
• City Hall, 8601 Midcrown Drive, Windcrest • www.windcrest-tx.gov/190/windcrest-light-up
Santa’s Ranch Holiday season revelers may drive 1 mile of winding country roads and view more than 2 million lights and animated displays. • Through Dec. 31, Sun.-Thu. and Dec. 31, 6-10 p.m., and Fri.-Sat., 6-11 p.m. • Admission: $37 per car • 9561 N. I-35, New Braunfels • www.santasranch.net The Light Park A drive-thru holiday wonderland filled with millions of twinkling and synchronized Christmas lights, tunnels, displays and festive music. The event is pet-friendly, and offers light refreshments and other accessories for purchase. • Nightly through Jan. 1 • Admission per car: $29 online, $50 at gate • Retama Park parking lot, 1 Retama Parkway, Selma • https://thelightpark.ticketspice.com/2023-the-light- park-san-antonio
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NORTHEAST SAN ANTONIO METROCOM EDITION
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