Northeast San Antonio Metrocom Edition - March 2022

The e-edition is an exact replica of the newspaper with interactive and searchable articles from all your favorite sections.

NORTHEAST SANANTONIO EDITION

VOLUME 1, ISSUE 6 MARCH 11APRIL 7, 2022

ONLINE AT

INSIDE

Survey results help Schertz set priorities

SURVEY STATS In December, Schertz received 2021 resident survey results, which provided feedback on how citizens view the city.

IMPACTS

3,000 surveys sent 436 responses 90%of respondents satised with overall city services 79%of respondents rated Trac as a top concern 83%of respondents with the overall city appearance

TODO LIST

SOURCE: CITY OF SCHERTZ COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER

WILLIAMS CONFECTIONERY CRAFTS 13

The Great Northern Trail is one of many Schertz Parks and Recreation projects being focused on over the next 10 years to help meet requests for more trails in the area. (Jarrett Whitener/Community Impact Newspaper)

Full Fiesta returns to SanAntonio

See 2022 Fiesta Guide inside

BY EDMOND ORTIZ

For the rst time in three years, local residents and commu- nity organizations will mark a full version of Fiesta San Anto- nio this April, enjoying festivals, parades and giving to charity. The origins of the springtime citywide party date back to the 1890s when locals arranged a “battle of owers” parade to honor Texas revolutionaries who fought in pivotal battles of the Alamo and at San Jacinto, according to the Fiesta San Anto- nio Commission, Fiesta’s umbrella organization. The festival is slated to take place March 31-April 10 with a return for many events not held in 2020-21. The COVID-19 pandemic caused the cancellation of Fiesta 2020, the rst time Fiesta was scrapped since the years of U.S. involvement in CONTINUED ON 18

NEWLIVEOAK CITYMANAGER

Fiesta royalty court members greet partygoers at the 2018 Battle of Flowers Parade. (Courtesy Battle of Flowers Association)

THE SADDLE LIGHT CENTER

MORNING IMPACT

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COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER • COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

THIS ISSUE

ABOUT US

Owners John and Jennifer Garrett launched the rst edition of Community Impact Newspaper in 2005 with three full-time employees covering Round Rock and Pugerville, Texas. We have expanded our operations to include hundreds of employees, our own printing operation and over 30 hyperlocal editions across three states. Our circulation is over 2 million residential mailboxes, and it grows each month with new residents and developments.

HIGHLIGHTS FROMTHISMONTH

FROM JASELLE: Anyone who knows me well knows I am a Fiesta fanatic! From the downtown parades to colorful Fiesta fashions and cascarones to the Taste of the North Side—I’m all in. With this month’s edition, one of our front page stories answers all the Fiesta questions. Don’t miss the parade information—there is a new route this year! Jaselle Luna, PUBLISHER

Community Impact Newspaper teams include general managers, editors, reporters, graphic designers, sales account executives and sales support, all immersed and invested in the communities they serve. Our mission is to build communities of informed citizens and thriving businesses through the collaboration of a passionate team. Our core values are Faith, Passion, Quality, Innovation and Integrity.

FROMTRICIA: Parks and recreation. Streets and drainage. Education and economic development. These are some of the things that the citizens of Schertz were asked to weigh in on. In one of our front page stories, reporter Jarrett Whitener digs into the results of the city’s satisfaction survey, which factors into determining the city’s priorities and its strategic planning. Tricia Schwennesen, EDITOR

Our purpose is to be a light for our readers, customers, partners and each other.

WHATWE COVER

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GRAPHIC DESIGNER Janette Gonzalez ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Stephanie Schillaci METRO LEADERSHIP PUBLISHER Jaselle Luna MANAGING EDITOR Wendy Sturges ART PRODUCTIONMANAGER Lindsay Scott CORPORATE LEADERSHIP GROUP PUBLISHER Traci Rodriguez EXECUTIVE EDITOR Joe Warner CREATIVE DIRECTOR Derek Sullivan SALES &MARKETING DIRECTOR Tess Coverman CONTACT US 3522 Paesanos Parkway, Ste. 304 San Antonio, TX 78231 • 5129896808 PRESS RELEASES nemnews@communityimpact.com ADVERTISING nemads@communityimpact.com SUBSCRIPTIONS communityimpact.com/subscriptions ©2022 Community Impact Newspaper Co. All rights reserved. No reproduction of any portion of this issue is allowedwithout written permission from the publisher.

BUSINESS &DINING Local business development news that aects you

TRANSPORTATION &DEVELOPMENT Regular updates on area projects to keep you in the know

SCHOOL, CITY & COUNTY We attend area meetings to keep you informed

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NORTHEAST SAN ANTONIO METROCOM EDITION • MARCH 2022

IMPACTS

Businesses that have recently opened or are coming soon, relocating or expanding

GARDEN RIDGE

2252

482

State Farm-Nathan Obregon

COURTESY THE CHAMBER

3009

1103

2252

CIBOLO

SELMA

CORRIDOR LOOP RD.

BAPTIST HEALTH DR.

SCHERTZ

1604

IKEA-RBFCU PKWY.

QuikTrip

5 8

UNIVERSAL CITY

COURTESY QUIKTRIP

1518

SCHNEIDER DR.

AGORA PKWY.

218

SHIN OAK DR.

MAIN ST.

LIVE OAK

1518

NextCare Urgent Care

1976

JARRETT WHITENER/COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER

13 On the Grind Coffee has plans to open a new location at 11112 Toepperwein Road, Live Oak. On the Grind Coffee features cof- fee varieties as well as smoothies and other beverages that customers can grab on the go. The new location is estimated to open around May. https://otgcoffee.com 14 Hotworx will be opening a location at 14623 I-35, Ste. 170, Selma. Hotworx is known for combining workouts with the sauna to further accelerate detoxifi- cation. The new location is estimated to open in the spring. www.hotworx.net/ studio/liveoak-selma 15 Hawaiian Bros Island Grill has plans to open a location at 7929 Pat Booker Road, Live Oak. The new location is planned to open in the fall and will feature cultural dishes originating from Hawaii. https://hawaiianbros.com 16 Located at 23953 I-35 N., Schertz, QuikTrip will be opening another store. QuikTrip is a gas station and convenience store with over 900 locations across the country. This location is set to open on May 19. www.quiktrip.com RELOCATIONS 17 On Jan. 31, Chrissy Rae’s Dance Academy moved from 807 Main St., to 619 Main St., both in Schertz. Chrissy Rae’s encourages children to take dance classes

NOWOPEN 1 Floor & Decor opened Feb. 28 at 4200 IKEA-RBFCU Parkway, Live Oak. Floor & Decor specializes in all flooring needs, including carpet, hardwood, vinyl laminate and more. Floor & Decor offers free design services. 210-962-6718. www.flooranddecor.com 2 A’nis Aesthetics Medspa opened March 7. Located at 203 S. Main St., Ste. 103, Cibolo, the spa offers IV hydration, dermaplaning, custom facials, chemical peels, foot peels, hydrafacials and more. 210-724-3769. https://anisaesthetics.com 3 Wall to Wall Beauty Supply opened Feb. 19 at 17323 I-35 N., Schertz, in the Tri-County Crossing II shopping center. Wall to Wall Beauty Supply specializes in beauty and hair products for men and women. 210-564-9800. www.facebook.com/ wall2wallbeautysupply 4 State Farm-Nathan Obregon , located at 6000 FM 3009, Ste. 204, Schertz, opened Feb. 11. State Farm offers a vari- ety of insurance options to fit the needs of clients, including coverage for homes, businesses or automobiles, according to the business. 210-460-4951. www.statefarm.com 5 Best Friends Doggy Day Care on

Feb. 28 opened a location inside the Cibolo Walmart, 602 Cibolo Valley Drive, Cibolo. This business offers pet care op- tions for dog owners and allows dogs to play, snack and nap while their owners are away. http://bestfriendspetcare.info 6 JB Goodwin Realtors started the New Year off opening a new office Jan. 1 in Schertz. Located at 17305 I-35 N., Ste. 123, the realty company helps its clients buy or sell a home, or locate a rental. The new office hosts a team of Realtors who serve the Schertz area. 210-787-3759. www.jbgoodwin.com COMING SOON 7 All American Car Wash plans to open a location at 1024 Kitty Hawk Road, Universal City. This carwash, former- ly branded as Racer Classic Car Wash, features wash packages that give hands- on personal attention to cars, and all washes include a pre soak, bath foamer, wheel foamer, total rinse and more. The car wash estimates an April grand open- ing. www.allamericancarwash.biz 8 Zikam Neighborhood Pharmacy in Cibolo will have its grand opening some- time in April. Zikam has been serving San Antonio-area communities since 2015. Located at 791 FM 1103, Ste. 121, Cibolo, Zikam fills prescriptions, offers over-the-

counter products, answers pharmaceu- tical questions and more. 210-310-3132. www.zikamrx.com 9 TownPlace Suites by Marriott will open a location at 15510 N. I-35, Selma. The hotel will include 93 rooms and 19 suites with the aim to provide an at-home feel, according to the company. Estimated completion time on the project is late March. 210-455-6388. www.marriott.com 10 The Cookshack is coming to 8211 Agora Parkway, Ste. 112, Selma. The Cookshack is a comfort food chain that specializes in chicken and ribs with a bit of spice. An opening date has not been announced. 580-765-3669. www.thecookshack.com 11 Kellum Medical Group is a new medical facility located at 3701 FM 3009, Schertz. The development includes four buildings offering different medical facilities. The project was slated to be completed last fall, but has been delayed until an undisclosed date. www.kellummedical.com 12 WingIT will be coming to 313 Schneider Drive, Cibolo, in April. WingIT is a Kirby, Texas-based chain that focuses on a variety of wing flavors. Apart from the wings, the restaurant also serves pineapple lemonade, chicken fries and fried pickles. www.wingit210.com

COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER • COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

COMPILED BY JARRETT WHITENER

512-232-5000 EdServices@austin.utexas.edu

E nroll anytime in UT's online high school courses to catch up or get ahead. Full-time d iploma p rogram and single courses including Advanced Placement TM subjects available.

Fire Station No. 3 opened in Cibolo after a year in planning and development.

JARRETT WHITENER/COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER

with a variety of styles, including tap, hip-hop, ballet, jazz and more. For eighth graders and older, students can also sign up for a Drill Team bootcamp. Once a week dance classes cost $60 for a month plus a registration fee. 210-373-2505. www.chrissyraesdanceacademy.com NEWOWNERSHIP 18 Friendship Pet Hospital and Well- ness Center , located at 17244 I-35 N., Schertz, came under new ownership, and is now owned by People, Pets and Vets (PPV). PPV expanded in 2021 adding of- fices in Tennessee, Florida and Alabama. In 2022, they added Schertz. The com- pany partners with veterinarians to offer care for pets and their people. 210-651-0100. www.friendshippethospital.com 19 On Dec. 27, NextCare Urgent Care officially acquired Fast-Tex Urgent Care, located at 791 FM 1103, Ste. 125, Cibolo. In early 2022, the rebranding was completed. NextCare is one of the largest providers of urgent care and occupational medical services in the nation. The facility features exam rooms, digital X-ray services and more. 210-888-1175. www.nextcare.com FEATURED IMPACT NOWOPEN The city of Cibolo celebrated the grand opening of Fire Station No. 3 on Jan. 31 after more than a year of planning. The new $2.6 million re station is located at Wiedner Road and FM 1103, and is funded through 2019 bond funds as well as remaining 2014 bond funds. The station will help cover the rapidly growing city and oers living space for a two-person EMS crew. In addition to this station, the city increased personnel by four additional reghters to meet stang needs. Over scal years 2022-2024, the city hopes to add more personnel, reaching a

total of 12 per station or 4 per shift. The new station and personnel help regulate emergency response times, city ocials said. 210-659-9900. www.cibolotx.gov

For more informatio n visit highschool.utexas.edu

1103

IN THE NEWS Universal City will transition their trash service in March to an automated service, in which the truck automatically pick up the designated 96 gallon bin to empty it, according to the city. The new service will provide customers with new bins for both waste and recycling, and an updated service schedule. 210-619-0785. www.universalcitytexas.com The city of Schertz announced that through 2021 vaccination initiatives, Schertz helped administer more than 35,000 vaccines. The city continues to advocate for COVID-19 safety by provid-

BE OUR NEXT impacter

Community Impact is always welcoming talent that reflects our neighborhoods.

ing community resources. www.schertz.com/1893/ COVID-19-Coronavirus CLOSINGS

20 Gina’s Hidden Treasures Consign- ment Boutique , located at 18811 FM 2252, Garden Ridge, announced their official closing on Jan. 25. Gina’s was known for selling a collection of apparel and acces- sories, and was open for four years before making the decision to close.

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NORTHEAST SAN ANTONIO METROCOM EDITION • MARCH 2022

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COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER • COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

TODO LIST

March & April events

COMPILED BY JARRETT WHITENER

MARCH 0131

THE TASTELOCAL FLAVOR TOUR LOCATIONS VARY

APRIL 03

MOVIN’ ONMAIN MAIN STREET, SCHERTZ

The Chamber (Schertz-Cibolo-Selma Area) has partnered with H-E-B and other local businesses to host The Taste— Local Flavor Tour. This event encourages the community to discover the unique tastes of the diverse food establishments in the area. “Game” cards can be purchased at either of The Chamber locations for $10. 1730 Schertz Parkway, Schertz, or 9374 Valhalla Drive, Selma. 210-764-4030. www.thechamber.info/the-taste-local-avor-tour

The city of Schertz and the Schertz Family YMCA will host the Movin’ on Main event, which encourages the community to go outside and take part in tness-related activities as a community. Alongside a variety of activities, attendees can learn more about health and tness from local groups and organizations that will be sharing information at the event. Noon-4 p.m. Free. Main Street, Schertz. 210-619-1900. www.schertz.com/468/Movin-on-Main

Pixar Putt pops in to San Antonio for a six-week run from April 1 through May 15. WORTH THE TRIP APRIL 01MAY 15 PUTT PUTT THROUGHA PIXARMINIGOLF COURSE Pixar Putt is a pop-up, open-air mini-golf experience made up of 18 interactive holes inspired by the stories and characters from popular Pixar lms including “Toy Story,” “The Incredibles,” “Monsters, Inc.,” “Finding Nemo,” “Coco,” “A Bug’s Life,” “Wall-E” and “Inside Out.” The mini golf course is coming to San Antonio after a four-month run in New York and a stop in Houston. This course oers social distancing and COVID-19-safe measures, including capped player numbers, distancing measures and sanitation of all equipment. Masks are highly encouraged. Book your tee-time and purchase tickets online. Tickets will not be sold on site. $31-$33. 125 N. Flores St., San Antonio www.pixarputt.com/sanantonio COURTESY DANIEL ORTIZ

COURTESY THE CHAMBER

COURTESY CITY OF SCHERTZ

MARCH 10 THROUGH 20

three days of tattoos from over 60 award- winning tattoo artists, piercings and food. 1-11 p.m. (Fri.) 11 a.m.-11 p.m. (Sat.), 11 a.m.-9 p.m. (Sun.). $20 (one-day pass). 8101 Pat Booker Road, Live Oak. 210-412-5923. www.inkmasterstattooshow.com APRIL 09 SPRING CLEANAND SHRED The Chamber (Schertz-Cibolo- Selma Area) will allow residents to bring up to ve le boxes or bags for shredding. Services begin at 9 a.m. Free, but there is a suggested donation of $5. 1730 Schertz Parkway, Schertz. 210-619-1952. www.thechamber.info 09 RUNA 5K10K BENEFITING PREGNANCY HEALTH CARE The 7th Annual “LIFE” is Good 5K & 10K at Real Life sports elds will benet the Pregnancy Care Center. Located at River City Community Church, the event supports free and condential services provided by the PCC. Kids 10 and younger race for free. 6 a.m.-noon. River City Community Church, 16765 Lookout Road, Selma. www.reallifeamp.com/events

music. 2 p.m.-midnight. Call for pricing. 110 N. Main St., Cibolo. 210-455-5275. www.oldmainicehouse.com 18 ENJOY A CONCERT Blue Bonnet Palace will be showcasing the band Bog of Donuts on March 18. This New Orleans band covers songs in a style it branded as superpop, featuring popular songs from any era. 10-11:30 p.m. $5 (entry fee). 21 and older. Blue Bonnet Palace, 17630 Lookout Road, Selma. 210-651-6702. www.bluebonnetpalace.com 19 AND 20 LEARNABOUT REPTILES The Lone Star Reptile Expo will make its way to Schertz with information and vendors for reptile lovers. The event will feature around 35 vendors. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., March 19; 10 a.m.-4 p.m., March 20. $9. Schertz Civic Center, 1400 Schertz Parkway, Schertz. www.lonestarreptileexpos.com 25 THROUGH 27 GO TOA TATTOO EXPO The Alamo city Tattoo Expo—Ink Masters Tattoo Show will host its 17th Annual event in Live Oak. This event features

HAVE SOME BIG TEXAS FUN The 5th Annual Big Texas Fun Crawsh Boil returns to Retama Park. This event features a crawsh-eating competition, a family carnival, a petting zoo, pony rides, cartoon character appearances and live performances. $5 parking fee, $5 children, $10 adults, $30 unlimited carnival wristbands. 1 Retama Parkway, Selma. www.bigtxfun.com 16 GET TOKNOWLOCAL POLICE OVER A CUP OF COFFEE The Live Oak Police Department will be at Williams Confectionery Crafts to enjoy breakfast and coee with the community. Residents can get to know the police who serve them. 8:30-10 a.m. Menu prices apply. Williams Confectionery Crafts, 12107 Toepperwein Road, 210-945-1700. williamsconfectionarycraftscafe.com 17 CELEBRATE ST. PATRICK’S DAY WITHDRINKS ANDMUSIC Old Main Ice House is hosting a St. Patrick’s Day Bash of Bashes featuring live 5A, Live Oak.

Find more or submit Northeast Metrocom events at communityimpact.com/event-calendar. Event organizers can submit local events online to be considered for the print edition. Submitting details for consideration does not guarantee publication.

NORTHEAST SAN ANTONIO METROCOM EDITION • MARCH 2022

TRANSPORTATIONUPDATES LiveOak residents to vote on $18million bond aimed at road repairs citywide Live Oak City Council on Feb. 8

COMPILED BY JARRETT WHITENER

ONGOING PROJECTS

estimated additional $1 million in debt repayment. Council was not in favor of this option, instead going with the option to pay the bond upfront, which would raise the property tax rate an estimated $0.07 but would not result in the $1 million debt. Mayor Pro Tem Ed Cimics said by focusing the bond on specic high-priority roads, the amount of the bond could be lower. “This is all dedicated to doing our street repairs,” Cimics said. “We talked about the initial proposal being $17 million if we did all the streets at one time. Now we are rounding it o at $18 million, and we are looking at a $0.07 tax increase on our citizens. For those that are in the smaller incomes, it is going to have a signicant impact on them.” More bond and ballot information will be posted to the city website prior to the May 7 election.

agreed to put an $18 million general obligation bond on the ballot for the May 7 special election focused on street repairs and rehabilitation. With the projected cost increases of construction materials over the next ve years, council decided now is the best time to begin road repairs to be more cost eective for taxpayers. “If we don’t do the roads now, [they] are going to cost more on that end,” Council Member Erin Perez said. “Our residents are going to pay more because now our streets are failing, and they are also having car issues and other quality-of-life [issues].” Council was presented with two options for bond repayments that would aect property tax rates dierently. A wrap-around option was oered, which would have a lower property tax rate increase on citizens but would accumulate an

Work along Evans Road in Selma is progressing to Phase 2.

JARRETT WHITENERCOMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER

East Aviation Boulevard reconstruction

EVANS RD.

The third phase of road construction on East Aviation Boulevard from Crockett Drive to Pat Booker Road was expected to be completed by the end of 2021. With project delays, the road remains closed on one half, allowing access to local businesses and homes. The proj- ect includes bike lanes, curbs, sidewalks and utility improvements. Timeline: spring 2020-TBD Cost: $5.9 million Funding sources: Alamo Area Metropolitan Planning Organization, Universal City

1604

Evans Road improvements Selma continues to work to improve the capacity and safety of Evans Road by reconstructing vehicle lanes and installing new bike lanes and sidewalks. The road from the I-35 frontage road to Lookout Road will reopen. Timeline: May 2021-summer 2022 Cost: $3.34 million Funding source: Municipal Develop- ment District Fund

ALL INFORMATION ON THIS PAGE WAS UPDATED AS OF FEB. 17. NEWS OR QUESTIONS ABOUT THESE OR OTHER LOCAL TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS? EMAIL US AT NEMNEWSCOMMUNITYIMPACT.COM.

Swing by anytime to: •Learn the basics of Medicare •Ask questions about your plan •Compare coverage options Swing by anytime t : Learn the ba ics f Medicare •Ask questions about y ur plan •Compare coverage options or learning how to get the most out of you coverage, the UnitedH althcare® Medicare Store is your one-stop shop. •Get help with enrollment •Activate plan benefits •Replace a lost member ID card Get help with rollment Activat plan benefits •Replace a lost member ID card Walk-ins welcome. Stop in anytime to meet one‑on‑one with a licensed sales representative. No appointment necessary. Medicare Information Center 2455 NE Interstate 410 Suite # 100 San Antonio, Tx 210 279 4295, TTY 711 M ‑ F (9:00 a.m. ‑12 pm and 1:00 pm ‑ 4:00 pm) Swing by anytime to: •Learn the basics of Medicare •Ask questions about your plan •Compare coverage options •Get help with enrollment •Activate plan benefits •Replace a lost member ID card Walk-ins welcome. Stop in anytime to meet one‑on‑one with a licensed sales representative. No appointment necessary. Medicar Info mation Center 2455 NE Interstate 410 Suite # 100 San Antonio, Tx 210 279 4295, TTY 711 M ‑ F (9:00 a.m. ‑12 pm and 1:00 pm ‑ 4:00 pm) Whether you’re picking your first M dic r Medicare spoken here.

re coverage options

ID card

Whether you’re picking your first Medicare plan or learning how to get the most out of your coverage, the UnitedHealthcare® Medicare Store is your one-stop shop. ns welcome. ytime to meet one‑on‑one with a licensed sales ative. No appointment necessary. nformation Center nterstate 410 Suite # 100 San Antonio, Tx 295, TTY 711 a.m. ‑12 pm and 1:00 pm ‑ 4:00 pm) Medicare spoken here.

For accommodations of persons with special needs at meetings call 210 279 4295, TTY 711 ©2020 United HealthCare Services, Inc. All rights reserved. Y0066_21SPRJ57798_C SPRJ57798 For accommodations of persons with special needs at meetings call 210 279 4295, TTY 711 ©2020 United HealthCare Services, Inc. All rights reserved. Y0066_21SPRJ57798_C SPRJ57798 Walk-ins welcom . Stop in anytime t meet one‑on‑one with a licensed sales representative. No appointment necessary. Medicare Information Cen r 455 NE Interstate 410 Suite # 100 San Antonio, Tx 210 279 4295, TTY 711 M ‑ F (9:00 a.m. ‑12 pm and 1:00 pm ‑ 4:00 pm)

Swing by anytime to: •Learn the basics of Medicare •Ask questions about your plan •Compare coverage options

•Get help with enrollment •Activate plan benefits •Replace a lost member ID card

COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER • COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

EDUCATION BRIEFS

News from Judson, Comal & Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City ISDs

Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City ISD will meet March 15 at 6 p.m. 1060 Elbel Road, Schertz 210-945-6200. www.scuc.txed.net/scucisd Judson ISD will meet March 17 at 6 p.m. 8205 Palisades Drive, Live Oak 210-945-5100. www.judsonisd.org Comal ISD will meet March 31 at 6 p.m. 1404 N. I-35, New Braunfels 830-221-2000. www.comalisd.org MEETINGSWE COVER DISTRICT HIGHLIGHTS JUDSON ISD On Feb. 17, the Judson ISD board of trustees approved the design cost for the Veterans Memorial High School parking lot addition. The project will cost about $867,827 that will be paid through bonds approved in 2017. SCUC ISD On Feb. 15, Chris Douglas, CEO of Communities in Schools of South Central Texas, which serves Comal and Schertz-Cibolo- Universal City independent school district schools, shared that the nonprofit had been gifted more than $3 million from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott at the Chamber’s (Schertz-Cibolo-Selma Area) annual State of the Cities luncheon. SCUC ISD Superintendent Clark Ealy reported to the board of trustees Feb. 15 that school enrollment has continued to climb. As of the Feb. 15 meeting, the district had 15,942 students. NUMBER TOKNOW $400M This is Comal ISD’s bond capacity without raising the tax rate. A potential 2023 bond, including new schools, athletics projects and more, would likely surpass that total, said Steve Stanford, CISD’s assistant superintendent of communications and organizational alignment.

Judson ISD increases pay for some employees

NEWHOURLY RATES The Judson ISD board of trustees increased the hourly rates of 19 select positions to incentivize employment.

BY JARRETT WHITENER

JUDSON ISD During the Feb. 17 board meeting, trustees voted unanimously to increase employment compensation and set the compensation for summer school employees. The amendment to the 2021-22 compensation plan changed pay for 19 jobs, 11 of which are for summer school. Superintendent Jeanette Ball explained the district needed to raise salaries for certain positions to offer competitive pay and encourage employment in otherwise difficult to fill roles. “One of the things that our district is needing is a plumber journeyman,” Ball said. “So, we are looking at taking this to a different pay grade to be able to fill this position. Plumber positions are something that have been difficult to fill.” The increase in summer position pay will help incen- tivize employees to take the extra work, which will better meet the needs of students, Ball said. Trustees set minimum, mid-level and maximum rates for each position. For example, a plumber-journeyman will make a minimum of $22.69 per hour and a maximum of $32.04.

Minimum Mid-level

Maximum

30 35 0 5 10 15 20 25

Plumber- journeyman

Clerk, academic programs and Administrative Assistant II

Secretary, senior staff

SOURCE: JUDSON ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER

SCUC ISD retains UIL geographic designation for student athletics, academic competitions

Comal ISDbacks away fromMay 2022 bond

BY TRICIA SCHWENNESEN

BY LAUREN CANTERBERRY

UIL District 27 High Schools

SCHERTZ-CIBOLO-UNIVERSAL CITY ISD The University Interscho- lastic League underwent its two- year realignment and SCUC ISD will remain in UIL District 27 6A, officials said at a Feb. 15 board meeting. San Antonio-Wagner, South San Antonio and Smithson Valley high schools all dropped to 5A, Superin- tendent Clark Ealy said. “So we had eight [schools], we lost three, and that left us five. Our five got to stay together, and we welcome back San

COMAL ISD After several months of discussion, officials with Comal ISD during a Feb. 15 board workshop officially postponed a proposed May bond election. The board of trustees previously considered calling a May bond to cover items that failed to pass in the November 2021 bond; however, several board members and district staff voiced concerns that there is not enough time to inform voters about the proposed projects.

Every two years the University Interscholastic League realigns the high school districts.

• San Antonio E. Central • San Marcos • Schertz Clemens

• Cibolo Steele • Converse Judson • New Braunfels

SOURCE: UNIVERSITY INTERSCHOLASTIC LEAGUE/COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER

Marcos into our [UIL] district,” Ealy said.

NORTHEAST SAN ANTONIO METROCOM EDITION • MARCH 2022

CITY& COUNTY

News from Cibolo, Schertz, Selma & San Antonio

Selma prepares to issue $9million in certificates of obligation for road improvements, public safety

2022 Cibolofest plans its return

BY JARRETT WHITENER

of Lookout Road. The public safety training facility will include an indoor shooting range, a three-story fire training structure with a burn lab, confined space, outdoor classrooms and a facility expansion to the existing fire station, Casias said. This new facility will allow police and fire personnel to train locally and be able to conduct enhanced training exercises for high-risk responses while remaining available for emer- gency calls. Other municipalities in the area will also be able to train in the facility, bettering the emergency response teams in surrounding cities. The council will revisit this item during its regularly scheduled April 14 council meeting, where they are expected to take action to adopt an ordinance that authorizes the sale of the certificates.

WHAT THEMONEY WILL BE SPENT ON If approved, Selma officials would use the $9 million in certificates of obligation to focus on roads and public safety projects with estimated costs slightly lower than what will be available.

SELMA City Council on Feb. 10 approved a notice of intention resolution to issue $9 million in certificates of obligation, which will not have any impact on the property tax rate. The funds would be used to pay for a new ladder truck; a public safety training facility; and road improvements to Wiederstein Road and a portion of Lookout Road. The ladder truck will replace one the city has had in service for around 20 years. Road improvements would be aimed toward the southern stretch of Lookout Road and part of Wie- derstein Road in the Live Oak Hills subdivision, City Administrator Johnny Casias said. The city was also awarded funding from the Alamo Area Metropolitan Planning Organization for pedestrian improvements on the same stretch

CIBOLO On Feb. 8, Cibolo City Council approved financial mea- sures to allow Cibolofest to return in 2022. The event will be held on Oct. 1. Cibolofest was not held in 2020 or 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the city. City officials brought the festival proposal to the council in October. The festival is funded through sponsors and partnerships in the community, according to City Secretary Peggy Cimics. During the meeting, council approved new sponsorship tiers to help the city raise more funding. Revenue from sponsorships in 2019 total approximately $18,950, and estimated sponsorship revenue is projected at $30,000 in 2022, Cimics said. “It could be more than that, but we never know,” Cimics said.

Public safety facility ($4.5M) Road improvements ($2.9M) Replacement ladder truck ($1.5M)

$9M available

SOURCE: CITY OF SELMA/COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER

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COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER • COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

QUOTEOFNOTE “I HAVE AWONDERFUL TEAM, AN OUTSTANDING TEAM; AND I CAN TELL YOU THE BEST DAYS OF SCHERTZ ARE STILL IN FRONT OF US.” MARK BROWNE, SCHERTZ CITY MANAGER ON GETTING TO KNOW HIS NEW TEAM AND CITY CITY HIGHLIGHTS SCHERTZ On Feb. 16 the city of Schertz announced Council Member Rosemary Scott has resigned from her position due to health concerns. City Council may vote to appoint a new council member to fill the vacancy or call a special election. CIBOLO City officials will announce March 22 the 2022 recipient of the Gary Kelly Community Service Award. The award was named in honor and memory of Gary Kelly, who served on city commissions, committees and council. Schertz City Council will meet March 22 and April 5 at 6 p.m. 1400 Schertz Parkway, Bldg. 4, Schertz. 201-619-1030. MEETINGSWE COVER will meet March 22 and April 5 at 6:30 p.m. 200 S. Main St., Cibolo. 210-658-9900. www.cibolo.gov Universal City City Council will meet March 15 and April 5 at 6:30 p.m. 2150 Universal City Blvd., Universal City. 210-659-0333. www.universalcitytexas.com Garden Ridge City Council will meet April 6 at 6 p.m. 9400 Municipal Parkway, Garden Ridge. 210-651-6632. www.ci.garden-ridge.tx.us www.schertz.com Cibolo City Council

Candidates advance to runoffs inGuadalupe, Bexar counties

PRECINCT 4 COMMISSIONER RACE Stephen Germann and Joel Hicks pulled ahead of incumbent Judy Hicks during the March 1 Guadalupe County GOP primary election, resulting in a May 24 runoff election.

Judy Cope*: 930 votes

25.69%

BY JARRETT WHITENER

GUADALUPE AND BEXAR COUNTIES In the Republican primary race for Guadalupe County Precinct 4 commissioner, Cibolo City Council Member Joel Hicks took the lead with 41.41% of the reported votes. Lifelong resident Stephen Germann came in second with 32.90% of votes. Incumbent Commissioner Judy Cope came in third with 25.69% of the vote. Hicks and Germann will head to runoff elections, meaning Precinct 4 residents can expect a new commissioner in November. In the race for Bexar County judge, incumbent Nelson Wolff chose not to see another term and announced his retirement. Republican candidate Trish DeBerry received the majority of votes with 63.02%. Democratic candidates Peter Sakai and Ina Minjarez were the top two vote-getters with 40.72% and 30.82%, respectively, and will move on to the May 24 runoff election. Following the runoff elections, the overall party winners will advance to the general election on Nov. 8.Republic an

41.41%

Joel Hicks: 1,499 votes Stephen Germann: 1,191 votes 32.90% 0 300 600 900 1200 1500

Total Votes: 3,620

*INCUMBENT

BEXAR COUNTY JUDGE RACE Two Democratic candidates advance to the May 24 runoff election. The winner of the runoff will face Republican Trish DeBerry.

Democrat

Republican

18.88% 30.82% 9.58% 40.72% 36.98% 63.02%

Ivalis Meza Gonzalez: 15,909 votes

Ina Minjarez: 25,973 votes

Gerardo Ponce: 8,078 votes

Peter Sakai: 34,325 votes Nathan Buchanan: 26,705 votes

Trish DeBerry: 45,509 votes

10K

20K

30K 40K 50K

SOURCE: BEXAR, GUADALUPE COUNTIES/COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER

SanAntonio voters to weigh $1.2Bbond inMay

Cibolo city projects moving forward

BALLOT PROPOSITIONS San Antonio voters will decide on a nearly $1.2 billion bond.

Streets, bridges and sidewalks Parks, recreation and open space Drainage and flood control Support for new affordable housing Public safety and health facilities Library and cultural facilities

BY EDMOND ORTIZ

BY JARRETT WHITENER

$471.5M

SANANTONIO The May 7 local elections for San Antonio voters will include the city’s biggest bond issue yet—a nearly $1.2 billion proposal that mostly will fund infrastructure improvements if approved. City Council on Feb. 10 voted 10-0 to advance the bond package and to call the May 7 special election. City officials said they will not propose a property tax increase to fund an approved bond.

CIBOLO During a Feb. 15 luncheon for The Chamber (Schertz-Cibo- lo-Selma area), city leaders pre- sented 2021 accomplishments and the outlook for 2022. City Manager Wayne Reed talked about the completion of Fire Station No. 3, work on Miracle Field, road work anticipated for Cibolo Valley Drive and the development of H-E-B, which is set to open in 2023.

$271.9M

$169.8M

$150M $78.2M $58.3M

SOURCE: CITY OF SAN ANTONIO/COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER

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DINING FEATURE Williams Confectionery Crafts Live Oak eatery oers home cooking, community J oyce Williams took her passion for baking to the next level 15 years ago when she opened good old home cooking,” Williams said. “Once people nd out about us, they keep coming back. Some come twice a day even.”

BY JARRETT WHITENER

Williams Confectionery Crafts. Prior to opening the restaurant, Williams said she worked in educa- tion for 42 years, 18 of which were as a teacher and the remainder she spent working in administration. In 1992, Williams and her family left San Benito, Texas, so she could take a job with Edgewood ISD on the west side of San Antonio. Williams retired from Edgewood in 2002 and opened her own charter school, which she operated until 2006 when she said her passion for baking led her in a new direction. It began when Williams realized she really enjoyed making treats for her church and work-re- lated potlucks. “I kind of started with a lot of potlucks and things that we did for After retiring from education, Wil- liams said she saw baking as another way to serve the community. Originally, the restaurant was sup- posed to be a bakery only, but after some inuence from her children, Williams said she decided to make it a full restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. “My kids told me that I could cook breakfast since I was already here every morning,” Williams said. “We started talking about their favorite foods growing up and that is how we designed the menu. It really came from what they loved.” Many of the customers come in for breakfast as well as the daily specials that regulars have come to love, like chicken and dumplings and pork chops, she said. “I serve the kind of food that really is hard to nd because it is teachers,” Williams said. “The teachers would get together and I would always be the person that would do the majority of it. So, I just had a real passion for cooking and baking for a long time.”

Because of the loyal customer base, Williams was able to keep her restaurant aoat and steady throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. “We were so blessed,” Williams said. “We did the curbside that was required of us. We also had to go to 25% capacity. I used to serve 75 people inside and now I only serve 35. I still run out of food and desserts. I sell the same amount.” She remains cautious even today and has continued operating at a reduced capacity. According to Williams, the restau- rant — and her food — is a form of ministry and is part of her calling to reliably serve her community. “I want to be

Williams Confectionery Crafts’ Pork Chop Breakfast Special ($8.99) comes with a pork chop, eggs, cooked potatoes and biscuit.

PHOTOS BY JARRETT WHITENERCOMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER

“I WANT TOGIVE THEM THE KINDOF FOOD THAT IS NUTRITIOUS ANDHOMEMADE JUST GOOD COOKING. IT IS AGREAT SERVICE, ESPECIALLYWITH THE ELDERLY, AND I SERVE QUITEAFEWOF THEM.” JOYCE WILLIAMS, OWNER

able to be here for the community,” Williams said. “I want to give them the kind of food that is nutritious and homemade— just good cooking. It is a great service, especially with the

Williams Confectionery Crafts has fresh- baked pies available every day.

The eatery oers a selection of baked goods, including assorted brownies.

SPECIALS OF THE DAY All specials are $9 and a salad can be substituted for any side. Sides vary by day and include mac and cheese, green beans, corn, mashed potatoes, fried cabbage, cole slaw and pinto beans. Monday: beef tips or smothered chicken on rice with gravy, or fried chicken with a roll and two sides

elderly, and I serve quite a few of them.” For special items not found on the menu, Williams said she sometimes takes recipes that customers bring in and prepares it for them. “I like to tell people that if they don’t see it, then they can ask me for it,” Williams said. “If I am able to do it, then I will tell them to give me a couple of days, and I’ll do what I can.” Williams also promotes and sells work from local artists at her restaurant. According to Williams, she plans to work at the restaurant for as long as she can, and she wants to continue serving the community and custom- ers that keep coming back. “I’ll be here until the Lord says oth- erwise,” Williams said. “The demand is high, and to me it is about service and being aordable and available. That means a lot to me.”

Tuesday: Chicken N’ Dumplings with mixed vegetables, candied yams and a roll Wednesday: meatloaf or king ranch chicken casserole with chips or cornbread, and two sides Thursday: pork chops with rice, greens and pineapple casserole Friday: catsh, ounder, tilapia, salmon patties or barbecue chicken with two sides

Owner Joyce Williams opened her restaurant 15 years ago with a passion for baking and service.

Williams Confectionery Crafts 12107 Toepperwein Road, Ste. 5A, Live Oak 210-967-5200 www.williamsconfectionery craftscafe.com Hours: Mon.-Fri. 7 a.m.-7 p.m., Sat. 7 a.m.-3 p.m., Sun. closed

WILDERNESS TRAIL

NORTHEAST SAN ANTONIO METROCOM EDITION • MARCH 2022

PEOPLE GlenMartel Live Oak city manager

BY JARRETT WHITENER

Live Oak Town Center is adding a BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse in 2022.

The Live Oak City Council and Mayor Mary Dennis hired Glen Martel to be the new city manager on Jan. 25. Martel succeeds Scott Wayman, who retired after working for the city for about 35 years. Martel has 38 years of experience with the Nevada Air National Guard and the U.S. Air Force. He currently also serves as Brigadier General, Assistant Adjutant General-Air, leading more than 1,200 airmen through policies and planning. He plans to retire this summer. Martel sat down with Community Impact Newspaper to introduce himself and talk about his hopes and goals for the city during his time as city manager.

FUTURE LIVE OAK DEVELOPMENT HOT SPOTS According to City Manager Glen Martel, Live Oak may see increased growth around Live Oak Town Center, the area around the Forum and Gateway Plaza. The Forumat Olympia Parkway 8320 Agora Pkwy, Selma, TX 78154 Live Oak expects an increase in residual business to its nearby retail centers.

Glen Martel joined Live Oak sta as city manager late January.

PHOTOS COURTESY CITY OF LIVE OAK

WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO LIVE OAK? I’m coming fromMissouri City, Texas. I was assistant city manager there for about two and a half years, and [was] just looking for an opportunity to expand my horizons and do something dierent. Looking at Live Oak and where they were and with Scott [Wayman] retiring, it was a great opportunity to come into a city that was looking to do something dierent and take on a new phase of its life. I had a great meeting with the council and the sta, and I am looking forward to moving forward. Prior to working in Missouri City, I came out of the Nevada National Guard full-time, and I did that for about 12 years before becoming an assistant city manager. WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE CURRENT ATMOSPHERE OF THE CITY AND ITS IDENTITY? The atmosphere in Live Oak is very positive, both on the citizen side and the sta side. The team we have—Team Live Oak, as we like to call it—is experienced, and most of them have been here a very long time, so they have made my transition about as easy as you can make it with the experience they have and the dedication they have to the city of Live Oak. HOWDOES THE CITY WORK TOKEEP A BALANCE BETWEEN THE RETAIL STORES, CORPORATIONS AND COMMUNITY? This was talked about a couple of years ago, and that is why we are rewriting the ordinances to support that vision. I think there is recognition that as we build out in

the future, there needs to be some opportunities to look for balance. Certain areas of the city will need to be reinvented. Certain areas may need to be torn down to create something new that will move our vision forward. All that is pretty well described in the compre- hensive plan and ordinances can support that. I think that citizens are proud of what Live Oak is right now. The few that I have met and talked to, they love it and have lived here 40 or 50 years, but they understand that to have the quality of life and what they enjoy, they need those businesses and they need those oce spaces and that kind of stu for the tax support. WHAT DO YOU FORECAST FOR CITY GROWTHAND DEVELOPMENT? In the three corners, we have the Forum, the Gateway [Plaza] and Town Center. I think here in the near future, you will see some great announcements coming out of the Town Center. Right now, Twin Peaks is being constructed up there and BJ’s [Restaurant & Brewhouse] is being constructed up there, so more eatery type stu. Pretty soon, we will have some more information out of there for some additional supports there, not just eateries but nancial institu- tions and that kind of thing. [In] the Forum, there are some new opportunities being adjusted. Some places have unfortunately closed down because of the pan- demic, but we have been fortunate in having other businesses come in and do other things there. It is a little dierent opportunity there and a pretty solid tax base, so that is

a good corner for us. The Gateway [a retail shopping center anchored by a Burlington Coat Factory and a James Avery jewelry store] has potential for another headquarters-type oppor- tunity in the future. All of that is a pretty good and broad-base [foundation for future develop- ment]. You look at tax income from retail, commercial [and] the oce space we are talking about from a pay component for the residents potentially ... to live here and work at those places. I think from a tax base, those are huge. When you look more internally though, coming back to what Live Oak sees itself being when looking at the comprehensive plan, the local areas have some opportunities for us as well. WHATWOULD YOU LIKE RESIDENTS TOKNOWABOUT YOUR JOB? I have met a few [citizens] through meetings with our Live Oak Citizens Police [Academy], and I have got the senior Live Oak folks, and I have got the League of Arts reaching out. What I would ask is that they take an opportunity to come in and intro- duce yourselves, and let me get to know you and you get to knowme. As a citizen of Live Oak, that is what I am here to do with the team is to help the citizens maintain the lifestyle they want and maintain the city they would like to see. Take advantage of those opportunities and come out and get to know me. I think my experiences throughout my life will help me with this next chapter for me and the city.

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LiveOak Town Center I-35 & Loop 1604 W, Live Oak, TX 78233 The Live Oak Town Center is taking shape as a hub for food and shopping near IKEA.

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GatewayPlaza 7529 N Loop 1604 E, Live Oak, TX 78233 Gateway Plaza—home to several big retailers—is a future development hotspot.

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CONTACT INFORMATION: City Manager Glen Martel 210-653-9140, Ext. 2261 gmartel@liveoaktx.net 8001 Shin Oak Drive, Live Oak

This interview has been edited for clarity and length.

COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER • COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

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