February 2011

T h e A w A r d - w i n n i n g M A g A z i n e r e A c h i n g O v e r 5 0 , 0 0 0 r e A d e r s

C O N N E C T I N G T H E C O R R I D O RZ

February

2011

P U B L i s h e r s & M O r ePUBLished MOnThLY BY The

Schertz Public Affairs Office

Brad E. Bailey director, Public Affairs, Publisher

Chuck McCollough editor

Alexis Souza creative director

Chris Matzenbacher sales director

Mary Spence Business Manager

Shelby O’Neill copy editor

Brittany Losey senior writer

Mayorhal Baldwin

City CouncilJim Fowler

david scagliolaMichael carpenter

cedric edwards, sr.george Antuna, Jr.

Executive Managementdon Taylor, city Manager

John Bierschwale, Assistant city Manager

david J. harris, Assistant city Manager

send queries about articles or photographs to schertz Tales at 1400 schertz Parkway, schertz, Texas 78154.

subscriptions to schertz Tales are free for each schertz household. subscriptions for residents and businesses outside

the city of schertz are $19.95 annually. call 210-619-1630.

For advertising information: schertz Tales, 1400 schertz Parkway, schertz, Texas 78154; call (210) 619-1630; Fax (210)

619-1619; email [email protected].

news POLicYschertz Tales 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 Tales, email us at [email protected] 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 Tales 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 Tales does not constitute an endorsement of the goods or services advertised. Any publication of Schertz Tales, 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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Contributing WritersBrad e. Bailey, chuck Mccollough, greg schwartz, Lucille sims Thomas, Mary spence, danica Mathis,

chris sandahl, Ashley Festa

PhotographersBrad e. Bailey, chuck Mccollough, Mary spence,

Marc Bane, Julie Biggs, Brittany Losey, chris sandahl, Katie chain,Tom eaton, shanna roman

schertz Tales is published monthly by the Public Affairs department of the city of schertz.

Our mailing address is 1400 schertz Parkway, Schertz, Texas 78154. The official publication of

the city of schertz promotes city, community, and business activities associated with the city.

© city of schertz, Texas.

The editorial office of schertz Tales is at 1400 schertz Parkway, schertz,

Texas 78154. call (210) 619-1630. Fax (210) 619-1619. website is schertz.com.

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T H E A W A R D - W I N N I N G M A G A Z I N E R E A C H I N G O V E R 5 0 , 0 0 0 R E A D E R S

C O N N E C T I N G T H E C O R R I D O RZ

February

2011

5FeBrUArY 2011scherTzMAgAzine.cOM

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TO BUiLd Or nOT TO BUiLd

CITY PERMITS PROTECT RESIDENTS, PROPERTY VALUES

The city of schertz development

services department staff maintains public safety and community

standards through permits, which means they may not always be the

most popular folks in town.

cAPTAin cLicK And his hOT rOd

MARC BANE: CRIME-FIGHTING CAMERAMAN

schertz Police department

capt. Marc Bane shares his off-duty love of photography, videography

and drag racing.

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hAMMering hOMe A POinT

BUILDING YOUR DREAM HOME YOURSELF

we’ve all heard the expression “if

you want something done right, do it yourself.” Katie chain did just

that, with a little help from a schertz company.

PinBALL: The grAnddAddY

OF TheM ALL COLLECTOR ‘TILTS’ IT UP IN SCHERTZ

Before video games, pinball machines

fascinated people with cool sounds and flashing lights. Jason Richards keeps

that culture alive with his pinball machine collection.

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V O L . 2 9 I S S U E 2

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8 Talk of the Townz

16 visionz: news from the chamber of commerce

18 entertainmentz: gruene hall

25 sweetheart: danica Mathis

42 Focuz: Ken Anderson

46 government round-Up & calendar

On this month’s cover, amateur photographer and professional law enforcement officer Marc Bane, his wife, nicole, and children shae-lyn and James recreate a normal rockwell-style scene of life in a 1950s home kitchen. Bane, a schertz Police department captain, collaborated on the setting with his mother-in-law, Julie Biggs.

6 FeBrUArY 2011scherTzMAgAzine.cOM

...and Schertz is deep in the heart of Texas, so it only makes sense that our region keeps building more and more homes.

A recent Express-News story stated that sales of homes in the Schertz-Cibolo area rose from 2009 but decreased for the same period in the Stone Oak area west of U.S. 281 and north of Loop 1604.

A drive around Schertz, especially the FM 1103/IH-35 area, and you will see newhome construction going up right and left.

In this issue we feature a series of stories that examine the many aspects of home ownership.

We follow Katie Chain from the pouring of the foundation for her dream home in Schertz Forest to near completion. Chain shares what she learned from the build-it-yourself experience.

Development Services and the Marshal’s Service offer helpful information on the permits requirements that owners need when building, remodeling and repairing a home and what NOT to do when it comes to Code Compliance.

Local Realtor Chris Sandahl takes readers through the fun and frustration of remodeling his new home and gives a few tips based on that adventure. Congratulations to longtime Schertz husband-and-wife Realtors Tim and Nancy Brown who are so confident in the local market they expanded and are now brokers/owners of RE/MAX Corridor in Selma. The Browns say our area continues to be a magnet for new residents who want to live in a quality community. Give them a call at (210) 659-6700 or visit Nancy and Tim at 14621 IH35N, Suite 108 in Selma.

By Chuck McCollough,

Editor

Now keep in mind the information in this issue is solely for Schertz residents. When you finish reading it, hide the magazine from friends and family who otherwise will want to move here and enjoy our heralded way of life.

Just kidding, we would love to have them here.

Home is where the heart is...



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Join the City of Schertz, the Comal County Senior Citizens Foundation and WellMed for the grand opening of the Schertz Area Senior Center and WellMed Clinic in Schertz on Friday, March 4, from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM. The WellMed Clinic, located at 608 Schertz Parkway along with the Schertz Area Senior Center, accepts Medicare pa-tients and United Health Care Secure Horizons insurance, said WellMed Representative Steve Webber. “I also am available to speak with anyone about their Medi-care coverage and any new changes to Medicare,” said Webber. The Schertz Area Senior Center, which began serv-ing lunch in November 2010, is now fully operational and serves seniors, said Center Director Ida Hardy. Qualified seniors age 60 or older can receive a free hot lunch Monday through Friday from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM. In addition to the nutrition program, the center offers opportunities for Senior Center members to explore seven dimensions of wellness: social, physical, intellectual, vocation-

al, environmental, emotional and spiritual. “The programs are just now beginning, and we recently had our first meeting of a Grandparents Support Group,” Hardy said. “Soon to come are our Grief Support Group, Low Vision Support Group and Low Hearing Sup-port Group.” The Senior Center also hosts bingo on the second and fourth Monday of each month, and members can always play dominoes and various card games. Exercise classes, a fall prevention program and a weight loss workshop espe-cially for the older adult will soon be offered at the center, Hardy noted. While you do not have to be a member to enjoy the hot meal program, to participate in the other events you must be a member. The facility is open Monday through Thursday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM and on Friday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. For more information about Senior Center, call 210-619-1970, visit www.nbsenior.org or e-mail Hardy at [email protected]. For more infor-mation about WellMed call 210-485-8773.

WELCOME: Schertz Area Senior Center

and WellMed at Schertz

Selma-Schertz 5K Run/Walk draws nearly 300 participants

Led by two wounded warriors (from left, Nick McCoy in race wheelchair and Josh Sweeny in wheelchair), nearly 300 run-ners and walkers head out of the starting gate above Saturday morning, January 22, for the 1st Annual Selma-Schertz Salute to Service Members 5K Run/Walk. The event started at 8:00 AM in front of the Blue Bonnet Palace on Lookout Road in Selma. Par-ticipants then ran, walked or rolled into Schertz and then returned to finish the event at the Blue Bonnet. Selma Mayor Tom Daly and Schertz Mayor Hal Baldwin thanked participants for coming out on a cold morning and helping make the inaugural event a big success. The Selma-Schertz 5K Run/Walk benefits Operation Comfort, which provides things like adaptive sports programs including hand cycling, sled hockey, adaptive skiing and surfing.For more information visit www.texpts.com/5k.htm.

Do You Have Your Passport?

Registration for the Schertz EMS Passport To Care plan is under-way. Passport-to-Care consists of a prepay program that can elimi-nate or reduce out-of-pocket cost for an emergency ambulance ride. For more informa-tion, call 210-619-1400 or visit www.schertz-emspassport.com.


The Steele High School Foot-ball team was recognized Jan-uary 14 with a parade and pep rally in downtown Cibolo for their 2010 5A Division II State Championship. Residents and fans from around the region were on hand to cheer on the team and meet the players that brought home the trophy. In addition to local officials from Schertz, Cibolo, Marion, and the SCUCISD being on hand, United States Congressman Henry Cuellar presented a copy of a speech he read into the Congressional Record rec-ognizing the schools achieve-

ment. Head football coach Michael Jinks reciprocated the Congressman’s gesture with a football signed by the entire championship team.

Following the pep rally, Steele players signed autographs and mingled with the crowd. Future University of Texas signee Malcolm Brown met briefly with area officials, including Con-gressman Cuellar, for whom he autographed a copy of the November 2010 Schertz Tales Magazine that pictured the star running back on the cover (see picture).

Street Party for the Gridiron Heroes

PLAY BALL!!! The Buffalo Valley Youth Association’s Opening Day for the Spring 2011 baseball/softball season will kick off Saturday, March 26 with a parade and carnival at the Schertz Ball Park (1400 Schertz Parkway). Schertz Mayor Hal Baldwin will throw out the first pitch and festivities begin at 9:00 AM. For more information visit them on the web at www.bvya.com

Jazzercise...Dance it Up

at Schertz Community CenterMove to the music with Jazzercise! Classes are being held at the Schertz Community Center, 1400 Schertz Parkway, Bldg 3 on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday at 9:15 AM or at 7:15 PM. For class information, contact Margie at 210-744-9248 or 210-659-7248 or visit jazzercise.com for current offers.

North Center Grand Re-Opening

Set for February 16

Join the City of Schertz for the Grand Re-Opening of the North Center, 3501 Morning Drive in North-cliffe. The ceremony will take place from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM Wednesday, February 16.

The North Center facility housed the Northcliffe Volunteer Fire Department until the City of Schertz annexed the Northcliffe area in 2002, moving the city limits closer to New Braunfels.

Along with the Schertz Civic Center and Commu-nity Center Central, the North Center is available for rent to the public. For more information about rentals contact the the Public Affairs Office at 210-619-1611 or visit them on the web at www.schertz.com.

Free Soccer Clinics Scheduled for February,

March and April

GRUMPY’S ON THE GO!

Grumpy’s Mexican Cafe is team-ing up with S & S Food Mart to help area residents remember to eat breakfast everyday! Fresh Grumpy’s tacos are available at the restaurant in Garden Ridge and also at S & S Food Mart, 799 Schertz Parkway. Nick and company offer friendly customer service, stop in and say hello!

The Schertz Lions Soccer Club will hold free soccer clinics for children ages 6 though 12 from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM on the first three Sundays in February, March and April at the Schertz

Soccer Complex on Maske Road (Maske Rd @ Hwy 1518). For more information contact Jesse Esquivel at 830-237-6494 or visit www.lionsfc.org.


Curl Up with aGood Book

The Schertz Public Library Book-store will host a Mid-Winter Sale of used books Friday, February 25, and Saturday, February 26 in Meeting Room 1 of the library, 798 Schertz Parkway. The sale runs from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Friday and from Noon to 5:00 PM on Saturday. Stop by for fantastic bargains.

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Help Stomp Out CancerHundreds of people and dozens of dogs helped raise more than $25,000 for cancer research at the 2010 Wilenchik Walk for Life, but according to this year’s event organiz-ers, the goal is to top that total and raise even more aware-ness about San Antonio’s UT Health Science Center Cancer Therapy and Research Center (CTRC).

The 2011 Wilenchik Walk for Life sponsored by H-E-B will take place Saturday, March 5, 2011. All proceeds benefit the CTRC. The 5K Walk begins at the Schertz Public Library at 8:00 AM at 798 Schertz Parkway. The event’s name memorializes former Schertz City Council-man Tony Wilenchik, a tireless advocate for his community who lost his battle with cancer in 2009.

Last year, CTRC Director of Development Sheri Ortiz said that the Wilenchik Walk holds a special place in the hearts of

staff at the medical facility. “It means a lot to us that the City of Schertz has decided to con-tinue honoring the memory of Tony Wilenchik with an annual walk and has chosen the CTRC to receive the money that the walk raises,” Ortiz said. “Tony was well-loved during the time he received chemotherapy at CTRC, and we are honored that an event in his name raises the public’s awareness of the CTRC and benefits our pro-gram to develop new cancer treatments.” CTRC had 35 physicians, nurses, researchers and other staff member partici-pate in 2010.

Pre-registration is now open: $20 for individuals 18 and older and $10 for ages 13-17 (children 12 and under are free). Teams of five or more individu-als (registered together) can enter for $15 each. Participants may also register on event day. Dogs make any event more fun and can register for $10 per animal. The first 500 partici-pants to sign up get a bag full of goodies which can be picked

up March 4 from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM at the Schertz Civic Center (1400 Schertz Pkwy., Bldg. #5).

Prizes will be awarded to Most Funds Raised and Best T-shirt Design in Team and Individual categories.

Signs of Love will be placed along the walk route in memory of a loved one who has lost the battle with cancer or in honor of a loved one who currently fights or has survived. Signs can be purchased for $15 at the Schertz City Hall Business Office (1400 Schertz Pkwy., Bldg. No. 1).

For more information on the Signs of Love program, call 210-619-1000.

To register for the event or for more information on becoming a corporate sponsor or making a donation to the Walk for Life, contact Schertz 311 at 210-619-1000 or visit us on the web at www.schertz.com.

Clemens, Steele Swimmers Shiver

For FundraiserIt’s called a Polar Bear Splash, but Buffaloes and Knights were the ones making waves January 15 during the annual fundraiser event. Clemens and Steele swim-mers took the plunge and then had a pot of not-so-chilly chili to warm up after emerging from the cold water. For more information about the swim programs and other athletic activities, visit the Schertz-Cibilo-Universal City ISD on the web at www.scuc.txed.net.


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Stompin’ Grapes!Looking for a unique way to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, etc...look no further than The Vineyards Restaurant. The Vineyards is offering a unique “Grape Stomp” event in the spring. Sit back and enjoy the music and scenery or partici-pate in a grape stomp competition, a wine tasting, crafts, or delicious food and drinks. The choice is up to you and your guests! Contact Lindsey Clark with The Vineyards Restaurant for more information, (830) 980-8033.

During the Schertz City Council meeting on December 21, the home of Edward and Belinda Orta, 1125 Lauran Park Drive (Dove Meadows), earned the distinction of BEST OVERALL APPEARANCE in the City of Schertz Holiday Lighting Contest 2010. Other winners include: MOST ORIGINALMarc and Ann Lafortune208 BrooksAviation Heights

NUMBER OF LIGHTSJess and Cindy Rogers3424 Dartmouth CoveThe Ridge at Carolina Crossing

Schertz Brightenz the Nitez Contest Winners

CREATIVITYJeffrey and Lisa Siebert3715 Florence GroveThe Ridge at Carolina Crossing

ANIMATIONCarmen and Javier Rodriguez5621 Fairways DriveNorthcliffe Country Club Estates

Winners in the Best Overall Appearance and Animation categories received a $50 gift certificate to Outback Steak-house. All winners received a trophy for their selection. Congratulations to the winners and participants in the annual event.

Rotary Feasts On “Moonlight, Merlot and Monet”

The Randolph Metrocom Rotary Club will hold its “Moonlight, Merlot and Monet” Charity Art show on Thursday, February 10, at 6:00 PM at the Schertz Civic Center, 1400 Schertz Parkway, Bldg. #5. Come enjoy an elegant wine and cheese reception while viewing a collection of affordable art for all tastes and budgets. Admis-sion costs $5. Funds benefit the many programs of the Randolph Metrocom Ro-tary Club. For information and reservations, please call or e-mail Dan Murphy at 210-326-6203 or [email protected].

There’s A New Kolache in TownSchertz City Bakery at 304 FM 78 operates 7 days a week from 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM. The new bakery, owned by Dario & Maria Sassenhagen, serves kolaches, breakfast croissants, cookies and cakes as well as tortillas and pan dulce. Tamales and bar-bacoa will be served on weekends. Call 210-945-2253 for more information, or stop in and say hello!.


Dear Friend, I want to give credit where credit is due. So, perhaps a confession can help clear the air so there’s no misunderstanding, Before I talk about my confession, though, let me say a few other things first. Let me start by explaining the photo in this letter. You know, when I meet people in town they usually say, “Oh, yeah, I know you, you’re Dr. Martin. I’ve seen your ad with that picture of you and the two cute kids.” Well, I’m the guy in the middle. Years ago I was a college baseball player, but I developed a painful neck, shoulder and arm condition. In my case it came on suddenly. The pain in my hands was so intense that I couldn’t raise my arm above my head or even throw a baseball. I was afraid that I would lose my scholarship if it continued. I went to my trainer and medical doctor and was given anti-inflammatories. The problem with those medications is that they just mask the symptoms and in my case did not help. Finally, after steroid injections I decided against it. But, there’s more…A family member of mine convinces me to give their doctor a try. This new doctor did an exam, took some films, and then “adjusted” my spine. The adjustment didn’t hurt, it actually felt good. I got relief, and I could use my arm again. Oh, did I mention that this doctor is a chiropractor. It worked so well that I went to chiropractic school myself. Now for McKenna and Cooper, who are the cute kids in the picture. They get adjusted regularly and are some of

the healthiest kids you will know. Their mom is

also problem-free even with all

the bending and lifting a busy mom of two does. It might seem like a

“A Doctor’s confession to the city of schertz…”small thing, but it makes a big difference to her. It’s strange how life is, because now people come to see me with their neck, arm and shoulder problems. Also they come to me with their headaches, migraines, chronic pain, carpal tunnel, whiplash from car accidents, backaches, ear infections, asthma, allergies, numbness in limbs, athletic injuries, just to name a few. Here’s what some of my patients had to say: “I have not had a headache in months”- (Mary J.) “Mood and attitude have improved” – (Lisa A.) Several times a day patients thank me for helping them with their health problems. But I can’t really take the credit. My confession is that I’ve never healed anyone of anything. What I do is perform a specific spinal adjustment to remove nerve pressure, and the body responds by healing itself. We get tremendous results. It’s a simple as that! Forty-eight million Americans no longer have health insurance, and those who do have found that their benefits are reduced. That’s where my I come in. I have a significantly lower fee plan so that more people are able to afford the care they need. A whole week of care in my office costs what you could pay for one visit elsewhere. Studies show that people actually pay less for their long-term overall health care expenses if they are seeing a chiropractor. You Benefit from an Amazing Offer- Look, you are going to write a check to someone for your health care expenses, you may as well write one for a lesser amount for chiropractic. When you bring in this article, you will receive my entire new patient exam for $17. That’s with an evaluation and X-Rays….the whole ball of wax. But, please call right away because this offer expires on February 28, 2011, and I don’t want you to miss out.

By the way, further care is very affordable and you’ll be happy to know that I have affordable plans. You see I’m not trying to seduce you to come see me with this low start up fee, then to only make it up with high fees after that. Further care is very important to consider when making your choice of doctor. High costs can add up very quickly. Great care at a great fee…Please, I hope that there’s no misunderstanding about quality of care just because I have a lower fee. You’ll get great care at a great fee. My qualifications…I’m a Magna cum Laude graduate of Cleveland Chiropractic College and a Strength and Conditioning Specialist. I’ve been entrusted to take care of tiny babies to pro athletes that you may know. After practicing for four years in San Antonio I moved my practice to Schertz. I just have a low exam fee to help more people who need care. My Associate, Dr. Kyle Stringer, brings over five years of experience to our practice with the latest in pain-free techniques. My assistant is Melissa, and she is really a great person. Our office is both friendly and warm and we try our best to make you feel at home. We have a wonderful service, at an exceptional fee. Our office is called Schertz Chiropractic and it is at 17323 IH 35 North Ste 106, (we are between 3009 and Schertz Parkway on the 35 South Access Road). Our phone number is 210-646-6000. Call Melissa or me today for an appointment. We can help you. Thank you. -Patrick W. Martin, D.C.P.S. When accompanied by the first, I am also offering the second family member this same examination for only $10.P.S.S. Your time is just as valuable as ours, that’s why we will be with you promptly at your appointment.

Not applicable to Medicare Beneficiaries due to regulations.

Yes, it’s PAJAMARAMA! Wear your pajamas at the Schertz Public Library on Friday evenings now through February 11. The fun starts at 5:00 PM. PJ-wear-ing participants will dance, read stories and create fun projects!

Members of the 2010-2011 Schertz Sweetheart Court visited the Autumn Winds Retirement Home and the Schertz Area Senior Center during the Christmas season. They performed Christmas carols, shared some of their musical talents and spoke with residents. Find out more about the Sweetheart Court or how to become a member at www.schertz.com/sweethearts.

Schertz Sweetheart Court members entertain residents at Autumn Winds Retirement Home

Members of the Schertz Sweetheart Court sing at the

Schertz Area Senior Center

Schertz Sweetheart’s Celebrate the Season with Area Seniors

There’s always something going on at the Library. Check out our calendar online for details at www.schertzlibrary.org.

Party in Your Pajamas at the Schertz Library?

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Grand Opening Celebration Friday, March 4th, 2011, 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM

WellMed® at Schertz cordially invites all Schertz area residents to the Grand Opening Celebration of WellMed’s new senior medical clinic and The Schertz Area Senior Center. WellMed at Schertz and The Schertz Area Senior Center have partnered to provide services and resources to seniors in and around our community.

WellMed’s mission and vision is to change the face of healthcare delivery for seniors. WellMed specializes in providing quality health care to Medi-care-eligible patients, with a special focus on prevention. The Schertz Area Senior Center offers social, nutritional and educational activities for seniors age 50 and over.

Both are conveniently located at 608 Schertz Parkway. Come tour both facilities. Visit the clinic to meet the doctor and staff. Visit the senior center to find out how you can join. Enter-tainment will be provided by Bimbo & The Borderline Band and WellMed will provide all the refreshments, prizes and fun!

For more information regarding the WellMed Clinic call Steve Webber at (210) 485-8773. For more information on the Schertz Area Senior Center call 210) 619-1700

WellMed at Schertz -- Schertz Area Senior Center 608 Schertz Parkway

Suite 200 Suite 100(210) 491-8179 (210) 619-1700


3Prize is a gift certificate for:

Win a Gift Certificate for a two-night stay at Plantation Suites

& Conference Center in Port Aransas.

1

2Locate the fish pictured below in one AD some-where in this issue of Schertz Magazine. Visit schertzmagazine.com and complete the entry form to be entered into this month’s drawing.

A winner will be chosen February 2011.

BARGAINZVisit schertzmagazine.comfor offerz and bargainz from

our advertisers.

Click on the ‘Z’ located on the front page to download the bargainz page.

Locate the Valentine’s kiss pictured above in one AD somewhere in this issue of Schertz Magazine. Visit schertzmagazine.com and complete the entry form to be entered into this month’s drawing. A winner will be chosen February 2011.

register to win dinner at these

area restaurants. visit schertzmagazine.com

to enter.

6032 FM 3009, Ste 100, Schertz210.276.0066

Chef’s Table for Two

3 course meal with wine

1901 Weil Rd, Marion830.420.3755

Dinnerfor Two

27315 FM 3009, Garden Ridge830.980.8033

Elegant Dinner for Two

Capparelli’sGarden Ridge

19501 FM 3009 #3, Garden Ridge210.651.4817

Dinnerfor Two



SAVE THE DATES!Mark your calendars and plan ahead to participate in:

Business Expo: February 23 at The Live Oak Civic Center, 5:00 PM to 8:00 PMSchertz Shoot-out: May 19 at the Schertz Civic Center, 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM

The Taste: July 28 at the Schertz Civic Center, 5:00 PM to 8:00 PMGolf Classic: October 21 at location TBD

February 2011VisionzWhat’s Happening at Your Chamber...

Schertz and Randolph Chambers of Commerce present

Ye Olde Market 2011 Business Expo, brought to you by

Schertz Bank and Trust. With a medieval theme this year,

stop by and see OUR version of the Renaissance. Local

lords and ladies will showcase their businesses at the Live

Oak Civic Center, February 23, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

Registration forms can be downloaded at www.schertz-

chamber.org, or you can call (210) 566-9000 for more

information. Stop by and experience the excitement!

Schertz chamber Luncheon

Date: Tuesday, February 15th

Time: 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM

Location: Schertz Civic Center, 1400 Schertz Parkway,

Bldg. 5Cost: $15 Schertz Chamber Members/ $20 Non-Members

Guest Speaker: David Banzinger of UTSA-Small Business

Development will talk about “What’s Happening in Busi-

ness This Year”

RSVP your attendance by Tuesday, February 8th

The NEW 2011 Business Directory/Visitor Guide is here!

If one hasn’t reached your door, drop by the Schertz Chamber of Commerce Office to pick

up your copy.

Why should my business become a Chamber Member?

The Chamber marks the first point of contact for marketing to visitors and residents within

the community. You will be able to promote your busi-ness 24/7 through our Chamber website, monthly luncheons,

mixers and more! Stop by our office at 1730 Schertz Parkway, and pick up an application to find out other ways your business will benefit by be-ing a Chamber Member.


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There are classic music venues, and then there are venues that have become institutions. Gruene Hall falls into the latter category. Founded in 1878, the oldest continually running dance hall in Texas has rocked clear into its third century of hosting musical entertainment in South Texas and shows no signs of slowing down.

Situated between San Antonio and Austin in historic Gruene (now technically part of New Braunfels), this Hill Country gem continues to draw serious music fans willing to go just a little bit out of the way. Consider how a legendary spot like the Fillmore Auditorium in San Francisco – arguably rock’s most hallowed hall – dates back only to 1966. Gruene Hall had already been in business for close to a century when the Fillmore first opened its doors.

Newer venues like those in the House of Blues chain certainly have more modern amenities and decor. But as a historic

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Do you have a favorite spot

that isn’t listed?

Send an e-mail Send to

[email protected] and

let us know about it.

It could make the next edition

of “GotTa Go-to Places”!

landmark, Gruene Hall continues thriving as one of the greatest venues in the world. With its old wooden floor, long bar, men in cowboy hats and women in tight jeans, the timeless venue oozes Texas charac-ter and history. The beloved hall’s inti-macy certainly creates a key crowd-pleasing factor. The place only holds a few hundred people, so you’re never far from the action and the music sounds clear and crisp from every van-tage point. Without a back entrance, the band has to walk through the crowd just to get to the stage, so you never know when you might find yourself brush-

ing against one of your favorite music stars.

If it gets too crowded inside, escape to the space outside, which includes some seating. The right wall of the venue also features open-air screen-ing so that passersby can get a glimpse of the action from outside. In the winter, heaters keep things from getting cold, although the musicians have earned a reputation for heating up the place when the en-ergy output from the stage translates to a packed dance floor. A short list of music stars who have played Gruene Hall includes Willie Nelson,

“Gruene Hall had already been in

business for close to a century when

the Fillmore first opened

its doors.”

Robert Cray, Bo Diddley, the Dixie Chicks, Lyle Lovett, Buddy Guy, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Taj Mahal, Merle Haggard, Kris Krist-offerson, Jerry Lee Lewis, Little Richard, Doug Sahm and so many more. The bookings lean toward the Americana spectrum, but the venue also showcases great acts that veer into the rock ‘n’ roll realm, such as Los Lobos, Ryan Bingham and the Dead Horses, Charlie Sexton and so on. A visit to Gruene Hall may also ring a bell for film buffs, who might recognize the venue from the dance scene in the film Michael, which starred John Travolta as an angel trying to get

back to heaven. Gruene Hall also offers a monthly Sunday gospel brunch, during which $25 gets you food, drink and music.

Aside from the brunch, the premises serves no food, but several quality restau-rants can be found nearby in charming downtown Gruene. Be prepared to drink beer because Gruene Hall does not stock a full bar. Sure, they do serve wine, but most of the music you’ll hear calls for cold beer.

And, finally, because Gruene Hall keeps it old-school in just about every way, bring cash.

Gruene Hallcontinued from page 19Above: Entertainer Robert Earl Keen performs to an eager crowd in the historic venue.


tavern in the Gruene You can find live music in the historic Gruene area outside of Gruene Hall. The Tavern in the Gruene sits less than a mile from downtown Gruene, right next to the Gruene Home-stead Inn. The air-conditioned venue has been operating since 2002 and features a full bar, garden patio and both indoor and outdoor stages. Bookings include country, folk, bluegrass, Americana and some classic rock. Tuesdays feature KNBT’s “Roots and Branches of Ameri-cana” radio show, followed by a songwriters’ open mic. Location: 830 Gruene RoadNew Braunfels, Texas 78130(830) 608-0438www.taverninthegruene.com

Entertainmentz Extraz: Gotta Go-To Places

cheatham Street Warehouse This San Marcos honky-tonk has been operating since 1974 and features a weekly Songwrit-ers’ Circle on Wednesday nights. Performing alumni include George Strait, Townes Van Zandt, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Charlie Sexton and many more. The venue also runs a nonprofit foundation devoted to preserving and promoting Texas music. “Cheatham Street Ware-house is located almost exactly halfway between Luckenbach and Shiner,” says proprietor Kent Finlay. “We don’t know what that means, exactly, but we are certain it means something,”

Location: 119 Cheatham StreetSan Marcos, Texas 78666(512) 353-3777www.cheathamstreet.com

Do you have a favorite spot

that isn’t listed?

Send an e-mail Send to

[email protected] and

let us know about it.

It could make the next edition

of “GotTa Go-to Places”!

entertainmentz & eatz

SCHERTZ

billy’s Ice house Music fans on a budget will find it hard to beat Billy’s. The New Braunfels ice house features free music seven nights a week to go along with bar food and a selec-tion of almost 30 beers. The place also has a down-to-earth feel since it’s built in a big shed. Billy’s offers some outdoor seating and a big raised stage easily visible from any spot. The venue’s Shiner Bock Ris-ing Star series, co-sponsored by KNBT, features $2.50 Shiner Bocks all night long. On Monday through Friday, happy hour spans from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM and includes $2 domestics and $3.50 imports. Location:1193 Loop 337New Braunfels, TX 78130(830) 629-8169www.billysice.com

Pictured: Guadalupe River running through New Braunfels and Gruene.


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2nd Annual Father Daughter Dance

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Danica Mathis


Hey everyone! My name is Danica Mathis, and I am Miss Sunshine on the 2010-2011 Schertz Sweetheart Court. I’m so thankful for this oppor-tunity, and I really encourage other girls to apply to be on the Sweetheart Court. Being a Schertz Sweetheart has been so much fun, and I’m so glad I did it. I’m 17 years old and cur-rently a senior at Steele High School. Go Knights! I plan on majoring in physical therapy at Texas State University, Texas A&M University or the Uni-versity of the Incarnate Word after high school. I dance at Kathy Marfin’s Dance School and for The Leading Edge Dance Com-pany. I started dancing at age seven, and I dance about 16 hours a week whenever I’m not at school. It’s like a part-time job for me! Competing with the Leading Edge Dance Company has been a lot of fun, too. We travel all over the state of Texas to com-pete. We’ve done really well, earning high score awards and judges’ choice awards. I even earned a scholarship at a competition for being a “stand-out dancer.” Music is my life and pas-sion. I play clarinet in the Steele Marching Band and am trying to teach myself new instruments like flute and saxophone. Since

B y D a n i c a M a t h i s

my sophomore year, I have been part of the Steele Wind Ensemble. I lettered in band by making the TMEA (Texas Music Educators As-sociation) All-Region Band in 2008 and 2009 and by receiving superior ratings on my solos. I serve as one of the five woodwind captains that monitor the band, and I’m also a band librarian and the band secretary. I’m the historian of National Honor Society at Steele, a member of GT and German club, and I’m ranked in the top four percent of my senior class. I’m taking four AP courses this year to keep me working hard and to keep me busy, but my favorite class would definitely be anatomy and physiology. I work at Inflatable Wonder-land at Rolling Oaks Mall. Some of you may have even seen me working as a party host or playing with kids on the moon bounces. I love working there and work-ing with kids, which is why I would completely enjoy being a music teacher. I’d get to work with kids and still keep up with my love of music. Once again, being a Schertz Sweetheart has been a great opportunity. I love this city, and Schertz will always be with me and be a part of me no matter where life takes me.

Schertz Sweetheart

Court

Danica MathisMiss Sunshine


Anatomy of a Home

Building Your Dream House Yourself

City Permits Protect Residents and Property Values

Code Compliance Keeps Community Standards High

Houzing Newz: Adventurez in Buying and Remodeling

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Special Feature Section



Building Your Dream House

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Converse resident Katie Chain will soon be moving to Schertz, where her dream homecontinues coming together, piece by piece, according to her exact specifications.

She always wanted to build a house, and after her husband passed away four years ago, it became her mission. At first, the financial aspect worried her, so she took her time after purchas-ing four acres in Schertz Forest, a planned residential commu-nity near IH-10.

Her brother, a Realtor, suggested she look into UBuildIt, a na-tional franchise that assists landowners in the process of build-ing a custom home. Using UBuildIt, Chain works with company consultants on each aspect of home-building, but she acts as the general contractor.

“I have seen, at every stage, what it takes to get to that point,” Chain said. “Some of it I’ve had to learn the hard way.”

As the project manager, Chain makes every decision. In addi-tion to choosing colors and textures, she lines up which compa-nies to use for flooring, electricity, heating and air conditioning. She makes the calls and oversees the work at the house, usu-ally with the contractor and a UBuildIt consultant by her side.

“It’s time consuming,” Chain admitted. “Sometimes I want to say, ‘Stop giving me all these choices!’”

Many times, a decision comes down to cost. The contractor who gives her the best price wins the bid. Sometimes dead-lines define the verdict. If a project needs to be completed by a certain date, the contractor who can finish the work on time gets the job.

Chain’s children also play a big part in decision-making. Her son, Gage, 10, made many of the choices for the game room. He and his sister, Sage, 9, wrote their names in the wet cement when the garage floor was poured.

“It’s very cool for them to be a part of it,” Chain said. “It’s a fam-ily project.”


Katie Chain and UBuildIt representative Blaine Bybee look over the just-poured foundation.



Though often exciting, having the responsibility of making every tiny decision can, according to Chain, “get frustrating at times and overwhelming.”

For example, when the wrong front room window arrived, Chain had to make sure the problem was resolved, a task usually left to the builder. But as an owner/builder, she be-comes responsible.

The upside? She calls all the shots without having to ask anyone’s permission. If she wants something not included in the original plan, she simply tells the contractor working on that part of the job. If she decides she doesn’t want some-thing, she cancels it.

“I don’t have to go through five different people to make a decision, and I like that,” Chain said. “But if you’re not a decision-maker, this is not for you.”

Another advantage comes in the money she saves. By choosing each contractor herself, she knows she’s getting the best price. That savings immediately adds to the equity of the home, instead of lining a custom builder’s pocket.

“It’s not uncommon for people to save up to 20 percent on their homes,” said Lee Randolph, managing partner for the UBuildIt in Schertz. “Since we charge a flat fee based on square footage and not a percentage, we don’t make more money if corners are cut or cheaper material is substituted.”

Randolph prefers to work with owner/builders who know nothing about the process of building a house. That way, he and other consultants can help guide them step-by-step.

“We encourage people to call continually,” he said. The company welcomes every question from beginning to end.

Chain praised the company’s tailored approach. “Give me specific things,” she said. “Tell me deadlines, and I’ll do it.”

Chain started the process more than a year ago, but after the pouring of the slab, construction typically finishes in four to six months. Visions of moving in and hosting a house-warming party fill her mind.

“I don’t know how I did this, but I figured it out,” Chain said with a laugh.

Building Your Dream Home Yourselfcontinued from page 29

Framing of the house is underway.

Insulation is added and the house begins to take shape.

The house is about 75 percent complete. Move in expected in March or April.


City Permits Protect Residents and Property Values

Before Schertz residents build, remodel or repair a home, they may need a city permit, said Michelle Sanchez, head of the city’s Development Services Department. Even though homeowners may assume they don’t need a permit for some-thing they consider small, they should check, she advised.

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“The best way I can explain it is to say permits are needed for everything except cosmetic work like painting,” Sanchez explained. “Cosmetic work also includes flooring, cabinets, countertops, tile and sheet rock.” Appliances and equipment governed by residential codes includes furnaces, boilers, air conditioning units, ducts vents and water heaters. Replace-ment of these types of appli-ances requires a permit and associated inspection. Sanchez said homeowners commonly think they don’t

need a building permit if they are replacing something – like a fence or roof – but it depends on how much work is done.

“We try and use discretion and not be hard-nosed if people are replacing a small section, but if you take down 50 percent or more of a fence you are not re-pairing it, you are replacing it,” she said. “Buying a permit is not buying permission from the city; it is buying an inspection to make sure the job (construc-tion, remodelling and appli-ance installation) meets safety standards and is done right.

Development Services Department officials inspect a house under construction in the Kramer Farm subdivision.

From left are: Jim Derrickson, assistant chief inspector; Michelle Sanchez, DSD Director; Carl Quast, assistant

inspector; and Ken Anderson, chief inspector.


The Importance of city codes and standards is for occupant safety and welfare. Those codes and standards also protect property values of the homeowner, their neighbors, the neighbor-hood and the city.” Sanchez continued, “Consider that your prop-erty is one of your greatest investments and in an effort to protect that investment, the City of Schertz has codes. Take partnership in insur-ing our community’s investment as a whole by observing the requirement for a permit.” Sanchez also encouraged Schertz residents to protect their investment in the city (their home) by sharing this information with neighbors and friends so that all property owners participate equally in observing permit requirements. Also, Development Services has a list of contractors registered with the city, but it doesn’t endorse any. “We are here to assist you, so don’t hesitate to call our Inspections Division (210-619-1750) to ask whether you need a permit, to verify if the contractor you’ve chosen is registered and insured and to learn more about the inspec-tion requirement,” Sanchez said. “Homeowners need to be proactive when it comes to build-ing, remodelling or repairing a house, especially when using a contractor. Many homeowners routinely assume their contractor has taken care of everything. They should hold their contractors responsible and make sure they are registered with the city and they have all permits needed.” Sanchez said senior citizens, especially ones living alone, become especially vulnerable to contractors who don’t follow the rules like regis-tering with the city, which makes sure they have insurance. Some residents are surprised to learn a permit is needed for installation of a water heater. Getting the permit means the water heater and installa-tion will be inspected. “It is for the safety of the homeowner.” Sanchez said an elderly couple in New Braunfels died some years ago when their old water heater exploded. “There has been a lot of new home construc-tion in Schertz the past few years and continues today, and there is a lot of remodelling and reno-vation work as well, so enforcing our codes and requirements, like getting permits, is even more important,” she said. For more information on city codes and require-ments, click on www.schertz.com.

City Permits Protect Residents and Property Valuescontinued from page 31

Permit Tech Bernice Fox waits on a customer in the Development Services Department.



Code Compliance Keeps Community Standards High

Schertz homeowners at some point may have contact with the Code Compliance Department, a part of the City of Schertz Marshal’s Office. While the city’s Development Services Department deals with home building, remodeling and repair issues, Code Compliance handles homestead issues like high grass and faulty fences. Here are some tips from the Code Compliance Department: Compliance Takes Time When reports of suspected code violations are turned into the Code Compliance Depart-ment, residents often look for-ward to the problem being fixed overnight. Yet the behind-the-scenes activities of the depart-ment may not be immediately visible. Understanding the legal processes that the department uses will help you understand the time it takes to resolve is-sues.

City Permits Protect Residents and Property Valuescontinued from page 31

City Codes prohibit homeowners from doing things like putting appliances in the front yard.

Investigation Code enforcement officers investigate all reports. If the officer finds a violation, the property owner will be issued a notice (door hanger or letter) to bring his or her property into compliance. Time to Comply The City aims for each citizen in Schertz to voluntarily comply with City codes. Code Compli-ance strives to immediately abate violations that are threats to public health. Sometimes, though, more common viola-tions take longer to resolve.

Property owners typically receive the following windows of compliance for common violations: *High grass and weeds 7 days*Trash and debris 7 days*Junk vehicles 10 days* Fencing issues 7 days

What Next? When a property owner fails to bring a property into compli-ance during the time allotted, the department can enforce compliance through a variety of legal options, including issu-ing a citation. In very specific cases, the City can enter a property and fix a problem without the permission of the property owner. When this hap-pens, the property owner holds the responsibility of paying for the costs involved, including an administrative fee. If the property owner(s) fails to pay for these costs, a lien may be filed against the property. Summons To Appear If a notice of violation and cita-tion do not gain compliance from the property owner, Code Compliance will use more forceful tools to obtain compli-ance. In appropriate circum-stances, cases will be taken

before the Municipal Court to ensure compliance. Following these legal processes increas-es the time between the initial complaint and compliance. A Matter of Time When residents do not comply with City Ordinances and Codes, enforcing compliance via legal avenues requires more time and resources. The Code Compliance Department uses preventative, proactive measures to prevent matters from escalating, but in some instances, compliance takes time. Please be patient: Your complaint is not being ignored.

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Adventurez in Buying and Remodeling

Houzing Newz:


As a Realtor, I help people buy and sell homes. Recently, my wife, Rachael, and I bought a home and and remodeled it. Boy, was it a learning experience.Our first home was just that--a first home. We were just excited to be labeled homeowners. The second home you buy, on the other hand, has to accommodate all of the things you said you wished you had done to your first home. With that in mind, we pretty much changed everything.

When looking at buying a house you plan to remodel, the first decision should involve what to change before you move in. Things like door hardware, ceiling fans, new appliances and paint-ing rooms can be done any time. Flooring, moving walls, repainting the entire house and other large projects should be done before move in.

We opted to replace all of the flooring, repaint the interior to a neutral color and give the kitchen a facelift. We hired out most of the work. The tile removal made the biggest mess.

Chris Sandahl’s home after remodeling, including new floors

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Here’s a rundown on what we learned from the remodeling project:

Budget: You definitely need to get a budget together, but be realistic. If you want to put wood floors in the living room, make sure you price-shop multiple places to determine exact costs.

Also, remember when planning the budget that you will go over. I am a penny-pincher, and I went over bud-get. Once you start with the remodel, you will decide to change something, add something or replace something you did not plan on. Let me give you an example: When we put in the wood floors, we had to remove the base boards. We could have reused them, but they were beat up and pretty old. Instead, we elected to get new ones that looked more custom and really made the floors pop. Of course, new base boards were not included in the budget.

Time: Again, be realistic with how long your project will take. If you re-model an entire house, your estimated move-in date should not be 10 days away. Along with the budget, the length of time to finish will inevitably be longer than you planned. Pick a finish date, and tell all of the contract labor that date. Then plan on an extra week for things to actually get finished.

Hired Help: Do not try and tackle something you do not know how to do. Hire a professional.. Do your homework with pricing out contrac-tors and comparing bids and, you can stay in budget.

We still have a couple of finishing details on our remodel and a bunch of boxes to unpack, but we have moved in and love our new home.

If you questions about real estate, contact Chris Sandahl at (210) 632-1661 or [email protected].

Houzing Newzcontinued from page 35


For some, pinball machines can be remembered as a favorite childhood pastime. Few, however, have cultivated an interest past the arcade. Schertz counts among its residents one of those real-life pinball wizards, Jason Richards, who has turned a love of the game into a diverse collection.

“I was always interested in pinball growing up,” Richards said. “But I didn’t start collecting ma-chines until about four and a half years ago.”

Richards bought his first machine nearly five years ago when he found one sitting unused on a friends’ porch. It took months to convince the owner to sell, but Richards finally had his first pinball machine--soon to be followed by many more.

Since then, Richards has discovered many games in Schertz from those who no longer use them. A number of his machines date back sev-eral decades, with many of them spanning from the mid-70s to late ‘80s. His oldest model hails from 1953. Typically, most of these machines require some maintenance before they can be played.

“I buy all of my fuses at Radio Shack,” Richards said. “Then I bring them back and work on them in my garage until they’re running, and then I move them into the house.”

Richards has about 15 pinball machines cur-rently in his garage, while his game room houses

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Pinball:The Granddaddy

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Jason Richards collection includes dozens of vintage pinball machines, one dating to the 1950s.

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eight. There, Richards holds pinball tournaments and host monthly game nights. His three children—age 12, 11 and 4—also enjoy inviting friends over to play. Richards has even taken his oldest along to pinball conventions.

“Every year, there is a Texas pinball festival in Dallas,” the collector said. “One year, I brought my son to play in the parent-child tournament, and we placed third. Now, he’s

Pinball:Pinball:Pinball:past the age limit, so next year it’s my daughter’s turn.”

Richards has attended the fes-tival the last three years and has received other awards. One of his games, “Nip-it”, earned the designation of best original pinball machine. Rich-ards had his favorite game, “Andromeda”, autographed by its designer, a guest speaker at the 2009 convention.

“Andromeda is pretty rare,”

Richards said. “They only made about 500 of them. It’s fast. It’s hard. It’ll kick your butt every time. Everyone has different taste in games. I like ones with short ball times where it’s harder to keep the ball alive. This one is definitely one of the faster ones I’ve played.”

Richards’ pinball collection has done more than just add recreation to his life. He has also formed close friendships

in the community through his hobby. He now counts among his good friends the couple he bought his first machine from, and they often come over to play that game and others.

Richards has plans to use his machines to host a fundraiser or awareness event for his middle daughter, Melody, who has Type 1 Diabetes.

Richards can be contacted at [email protected].

continued from page 39

Jason Richards and daughter Loryn, 4, show off some of the cool pinball machines the Schertz resident has accumulated over the years

Schertz Civic Center


“keep builders honest...”


Ken Anderson serves as Chief Inspector for the City of Schertz, but he doesn’t spend his days solving crimes. Instead, he and other members of the Develop-ment Services Department protect Schertz residents and the public-at-large by inspecting buildings under construction or renovation as well as items like water heaters. The inspections primarily ensure safety but also protect the integrity and value of property and the city’s good reputation.

Like most building inspectors, An-derson comes from a construction background. In high school, the Colorado native became involved in sports, including football and wrestling, and played trombone in the band, while also serving as president of the youth group at the Methodist church in his hometown of Wray.

“I learned about construction from my dad, and that included learning to read blueprints,” Anderson said in an office full of rolled-up blue-prints and construction diagrams depicting projects all over Schertz. “I graduated from high school in 1969, but an injury caused me to lose a football scholarship, and I then went to work for a construc-tion company in Denver.”

He started as a carpenter’s helper but moved up to lead man when a boss asked if anyone knew how to cut a stairway. “I spoke up and said I could do that,” he recalled. “It was one of the things my dad showed me - how to understand the whole job not just my part.”

In the early 1970s, Anderson and a friend planned to go to Florida, where construction work abound-

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Anderson’s Inspections

Keep Schertz Safeed, particularly in the Orlando area because of the new Disney World. They stopped off in the Austin-San Antonio area and never made it on to Florida.

For the rest of the 1970s and into the early 1980s, Anderson worked for a number of construc-tion companies and started his own construction firm, which he operated for seven years. Later, he owned and operated Boggess Catfish Ponds on Maske Road until 1994, when he went to work for the City of Schertz as assistant inspector.

Anderson’s 16 years with Schertz mirrors the city’s tremendous growth from a little town of 8,000 to a model municipality with nearly five times that number of resi-dents. He has seen pasture land and wooded areas transformed into a forest of houses.

“At our peak of residential con-struction in 2005 to 2006, there were nearly 800 homes being built each year,” he said. In fact, Schertz issued 400 residential construction permits in fiscal year 2009-2010 (September 30, 2009 to October 1, 2010). “That’s still a lot of houses for this area,” he noted.

The Development Services Department performs about 80 inspections per work day, which, according to Anderson, “keep builders honest and on track.” Away from the office, Anderson likes to spend time with his chil-dren and grandchild, listen to jazz saxophonist Joseph Vincelli and go fishing.

Marc Bane uses lessons he’s learned from law enforcement and leisure to help improve the Schertz Police Department.

The 37-year-old captain is the third highest-ranking member of the police force and an avid photographer and videographer. “I have been married to my wife, Nicole, since 2003, and we have two children: our daughter, Shae-lyn, 5, and our son, James, 3,” Bane said. “Everything revolves around them, and I thoroughly enjoy my family and recording that with pictures and video.”

Those videography and photography skills started out as hobbies to document family fun but have expanded to become useful police tools.

“Photography is a longtime interest, and I prefer shooting black-and-white stills over anything else,” Bane said from his office, the walls of which attest to his photographic skill. “I have really gotten into video editing and production over the last couple of years.”

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Marc Bane: Crime-Fighting

CameramanHis interest in photography be-gan in junior high, and later he incorporated video for school projects. Then he received a priceless gift.

“I got a bunch of nostalgic old videos from the 1950s and 1960s from my grandfather, and I have been able to use them in some of my video productions,” he said. “For instance, I recently made a ‘60s style TV commercial that played on ESPN for a Nostalgia Drag Racing event this past October.” In addition to his love for photography and film, Bane counts himself as an avid drag racing fan.

When it comes to his work, Bane has taken to his cameras to improve the community policing effort in Schertz.

“Look at how our modern so-ciety gets information – mostly through images and videos,” he explained.

“So using still photography and video are essential in doing police work and communicat-ing with the community. I have used photography and video a lot in my police career, includ-ing videotaping different kinds of interviews.”



Bane grew up in Kirby and graduated from Judson High School in 1991. After his father died that same year, he and his family moved to Schertz, and he joined the city’s fire depart-ment, which, at that time, had paid and volunteer firefighters. In 1993, he graduated from San Antonio College’s law enforcement academy at age 20, too young even to purchase bullets. “My mom and classmates had to buy my ammo until I turned 21 three months later,” Bane said, laughing at the memory. He joined the Schertz Police Department as a patrol officer in October 1996 after previ-ously serving with the Marion Police Department and Bexar County Sheriff’s Department. By 1999, Bane made detective in the criminal investigation division, and a year later, he was promoted to sergeant in the patrol division. He moved steadily up the ranks, being named sergeant in CID in 2005, then CID lieutenant two years later and captain in 2008.

Bane currently oversees the patrol division, CID and SWAT (Special Weapons And Tactical) team and remains the SPD person who primarily deals with news media on police matters like wrecks on Interstate 35. And he certainly has become no stranger to being called out in the middle of the night on that stretch of road. “The Schertz Police Department has a good rapport with lo-cal news media because we know they have a job to do,” he said. “Communications is a big part of our job.”


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schertz 2010 Bond Projects Moving Forward

Schertz City Engineer Larry Dublin told City Council that bond projects approved by voters last November are moving forward.

In an update during the City Council meeting on January 11, Dublin said that in the next six months, work should be underway on three major projects that were part of two propositions.

“We should see dirt moving on the projects concerning soccer fields and baseball fields, and design work will be underway for the aquatic center,” the city engineer said.

City Council asked for regular updates on bond projects, and Dublin committed to provid-ing those and keeping the public informed.

On November 2, Schertz voters approved the follow-ing:

*Proposition 1 for $6.62 million for a Community Swimming Pool and Aquatic Center

*Proposition 2 for $6 million for Ath-letic/Recreational Sports Fields

*Proposition 3 for $2.25 million for upgraded Animal Services Facility, new Adoption Space, Vaccination Facility and Dog Park

*Proposition 4 for $1 million for revitalization and improvements to Downtown Schertz

Stayed tuned to Schertz Tales for periodic updates, or visit the city at www.schertz.com to find out about public input meetings and updates.

schertz Father and son heroes honored

by city council During the Schertz City Council meeting on January 11, Richard Eldridge of Cibolo (right) thanks Schertz residents William K. Shahan (left) and his son, Bradley Hunt (center), for rescuing him from a sinking boat on Calavares Lake December 20th.

Hunt jumped into the water and used his dad’s knife to free El-dridge’s legs, which were tangled in a nylon rope as his boat sank after being swamped by the wake of a bigger boat. Eldridge wrote a letter to Mayor Hal Baldwin (far right) telling of the rescue.

The City Council presented Shahan and Hunt with proclama-tions honoring their heroism.

A Little Pomp for Your circumstance

Lesa Wood (holding roses), a planner in the Development Services Department, received an honor from Schertz City Council on January 4 for obtaining her Bachelor’s Degree from Texas State University in San Marcos through a city program that reim-burses part of the college tuition


sAws contract will save schertz

Money, enhance water

resources

The Schertz City Council ap-proved a contract with San Antonio Water System that will save the city nearly $10 million between now and 2020.

The savings can be applied to reducing debt and wholesale water costs, city officials said.

The contract is between SAWS and the Schertz-Seguin Local Government Corp. (owned by the two cities) and calls for SAWS to use SSLGC’s pipeline to transport water from Gonzales County to Southeast San Antonio.

During the January 18 City Council meeting, SSLGC General Manger Alan Cocker-ell showed council members how the agreement will save Schertz $9.97 million between 2011 and 2020.

“This is a great opportunity for our city and its residents to part-ner with our neighbors in helping secure water resources for years to come,” said Schertz Assistant City Manager John Bierschwale, who helped negotiate the con-tract between SAWS and the Schertz-Seguin Local Govern-ment Corp.

The Seguin City Council also approved the SAWS contract during its January 18 meeting. The contract will save Seguin $9.77 million during the same period, Cockerell said.

The SSLGC board approved the contract on January 13 and the SAWS board is expected to approve the contract at its February 1 meeting.

A news conference is planned after the SAWS board vote, said a spokeswoman for the utility.

for City of Schertz employees. Also shown are (from left) DSD Direc-tor Michelle Sanchez, City Manager Don Taylor and Mayor Hal Baldwin. Wood graduated December 17 along with her husband, Kevin, who also attended Texas State. Their son, Alex, will graduate from Texas A&M University in May.


gOvernMenTrOUnd-UP

GET UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION ABOUT CITY EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES AT:

schertz.com

government48 FeBrUArY 2011

scherTzMAgAzine.cOM

sewer Averaging will Affect residents’ 2011-2012

sewer BillsSewer averaging for the winter months began November 1, 2010 and continues through March 15, 2011.

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 that average will be multiplied by $2.65 for residents with an average below 12,000 gallons. For residents with averages over 12,001 gallons, the average will be multiplied by $2.84. That total will be added to the base rate of $3.75 for residential use. This average will be your sewer charge for the next 12 months.

Using water conservatively throughout the averaging months will help ensure sewer and water bills remain manageable. Households that use large amounts of water (watering the yard, bath, etc.) during the averaging months can expect higher sewer bills for the next billing year. Karen Garcia, City of Schertz Public Works Business Coordinator, advises cus-tomers to double-check all residential water systems (toilets, showers, baths, outdoor faucets, etc.) for leaks and make sure appliances remain in good working condition.

Commonly, unexpectedly high water bills can be traced to leaks (automatic sprinkler systems, etc.) or “running” toilets. Garcia also suggests that residents limit landscaping water usage, be frugal when washing automobiles and limit un-necessary water use during the sewer averaging period. For more information, visit schertz.com.

schertz general elections set for May 14

Schertz residents will head to the polls May 14 to elect City Council members for places 3, 4 and 5. George Antuna Jr. currently holds Place 3 with Cedric Edwards Sr. in Place 4 and Michael Carpenter in Place 5.

Filing for a place on the council ballot opens February 12 and closes March 14 in the City Secretary’s office.

To be eligible as a candidate for public elective office, a person must:

*Be a U.S. citizen;

*Have resided continuously in the State of Texas for twelve (12) months and in the City of Schertz for the six (6) months immediately preceding the date of the regular filing dead-line for a candidate’s application for a place on the ballot;

*Be eighteen (18) years of age or older on the first day of term to be filled;

*Be a registered voter (meaning the individual holds current voter registration in this state);

*Have not been determined mentally incompetent by a final judgment of a court;

*Have not been convicted of a felony from which the per-son has not been pardoned or otherwise released from the resulting disabilities. Submit your voter registration application by April 14 to vote in the Schertz general election. Voter registration cards can be picked up the Schertz Library, City Hall and county offices.

Municipal court employees recognized by city council

On January 4, City Council recognized three members of the Schertz Municipal Court for attaining Level 1 Municipal Court Accreditation. From left are Mayor Hal Baldwin, Patti Veliz, Jacki Marbach, Angela Green, City Manager Don Taylor and Assistant City Manager John Bierschwale.


iMPOrTAnT scherTzPhOne nUMBersCity of Schertz Elected Officials

Mayor: Hal Baldwin 210-658-6466

Council Members:Michael Carpenter (210) 619-1045Cedric Edwards, Sr. (210) 566-4540Jim Fowler (210) 658-1442David Scagliola (830) 606-1130George Antuna, Jr. (210) 467-7914

City Departments:City of Schertz (210) 619-1000Animal Control (210) 619-1550Business/Utilities (210) 619-1100City Manager (210) 619-1000City Secretary (210) 619-1030Civic Center (210) 619-1600Customer Care/311 (210) 619-1000Economic Development (210) 619-1070EMS (non-emergency) (210) 619-1400Fire (non-emergency) (210) 619-1300Human Resources (210) 619-1150Information Technology (210) 619-1180Inspections (210) 619-1750Marshal Services (210) 619-1666Municipal Court (210) 619-1500Parks & Recreation (210) 619-1850Planning & Zoning (210) 619-1780Police (non-emergency) (210) 619-1200Public Affairs (210) 619-1630Public Library (210) 619-1700Public Works (210) 619-1800Records (210) 619-1000Website schertz.com

gOvernMenTrOUnd-UP

***Meeting locations may change, for up-to-date

information visit schertz.com***

TUESDAY, 1City Council, 6:00 PMCouncil Chambers

THURSDAY, 3Transportation Safety Advisory Commission, 5:30 PM,Council Chambers

MONDAY, 7Library Advisory Board, 7:00 PM, Library

TUESDAY, 8City Council, 6:00 PM,Council Chambers

WEDNESDAY, 9Planning & Zoning, 6:00 PM,Council Chambers

THURSDAY, 10Economic Development Corporation, 6:00 PM,Council Chambers

MONDAY, 14Buffalo Valley Youth Association, 6:00 PM,401 Oak St


MONDAY, 21President’s Day!City Offices Closed


WEDNESDAY, 23Planning & Zoning, 6:00 PM,Council Chambers

MONDAY 28Parks & Recreation Advisory Board, 5:30 PM,Bob Andrews Room

Board of Adjustments, 6:00 PM, Council Chambers

CITY DATES to Know

CITY OF SCHERTZOFFICE OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS1400 SCHERTZ PARKWAY - SCHERTZ, TEXAS 78154

1400 SCHERTZ PARKWAY.SCHERTZ.TEXAS.78154

SCHERTZPUBLIC AFFAIRS

Documents

February 2011