PG.15

CASTLE HILLSS SHAVANO PARK NORTH SIDE 78213 78230 78231 78248 78249

VOL. 4, ISSUE 11

COMMUNITY NEWS

Bringing the tastes of the Caribbean to Castle Hills with chicken dishes and more

POLLO TROPICAL

EAT LOCALPG.22

MAY 9 - JUNE 13, 2016

Find all digital editions at www.salocallowdown.com

LOCAL EDITORIAL

SUSAN YERKES

PG. 04

PG. 03

Vote of no confidence in police chief does not bode well

The good news about area programs to improve graduation rates

Andrea, a 20-year-old who asked that her last name not be used, witnessed a horrific sight when her small pet, Paris, was

Debate over safety of off-leash dog parks rears its head after woman’s pooch killed in Phil

Hardberger Park by another canine

by RON AARON EISENBERG

The recent mauling death of a woman’s Pomeranian by another dog in Phil Hardberger

Park is raising questions about the safety of pets in city off-leash dog parks, with opinions evenly divided.

attacked and killed by another canine in the Hardberger East dog park in February.

“I screamed and screamed and begged for help,” she recalled. “We rushed Paris to a veterinary clinic but nothing could be done. She was dead.”

The woman said she used to go to the dog park all the time, but after seeing her cherished four-legged companion thrown into the air and ripped open, she vowed never again.

DOG PARK continues on pg. 10

Vehicle wrecks, fatality prompt improvements to Woodstone Drive

Phase 2 of street repairs underway in Castle Hills

Nirenberg says $55,000 in funding will provide more signage, striping

Eight roads are set for upgrades during next six months in a project with SAWS

STEM Academy puts students on path to careers of tomorrow

Robotics, engineering, cyber security and more just part of the lessons

Unique items for the home handcraftted by artisansM&N INTERIORISM

BUY LOCALPG.21

PG.16

PG.13

2 MAY 9 - JUNE 13, 2016

President Harold J. LeesPublisherGregg RosenfieldDirector of OperationsJaselle Luna

Assoc. PublisherRick UptonEDITORIALExecutive EditorThomas EdwardsNews StaffCollette Orquiz, Bain Serna and Will WrightContributing WritersOlivier J. Bourgoin, Ron Aaron Eisenberg, Angela Hernandez, Noi Mahoney, Peter Moralez, Eric Moreno, Edmond Ortiz, Arthur Schechter and Susan Yerkes

ARTCreative DirectorFlorence D. EdwardsContributing PhotographersRudy B. Ornelas

ADVERTISINGZone ManagerMarc OlsonControllerTami CavanaughREADER SERVICEMailing Address4204 Gardendale St., Ste. 201 SA, TX 78229Fax(210) 616.9677

Advertising Inquiriesmolson@localcommunitynews.comStory Ideastips@localcommunitynews.comWebsite www.salocallowdown.com

Reproduction in whole or in part without our permission is prohibited, 2016 Helen Publishing LLC and Local Community News, LLC all rights reserved.

For advertising, customer service or editorial, please call us at 210-338-8842 or write to us at: Local Community News4204 Gardendale St., Ste. 201, San Antonio, TX 78229

LOCAL Community News publicationsZone 1: 78204, 78205, 78209, 78210, 78212, 78215Zone 3: 78216, 78232, 78247Zone 4/5: 78109, 78148, 78233, 7823978108, 78132, 78154, 78266Zone 6: 78258, 78259, 78260, 78261Zone 7: 78015, 78023, 78255, 78256, 78257

Phone(210) 338.8842

FROM THE EDITORtedwards@localcommunitynews.com

THOMAS EDWARDSEXECUTIVE EDITOR

Of course, that advice is good anytime, but San Antonio officials are going the extra mile by emphasizing Vision Zero, an initiative aimed at making streets safer for those who walk, bicycle and drive.

As the name implies, the goal of Vision Zero — introduced in September — is to reduce or eliminate all traffic fatalities and serious roadway injuries. The educational and awareness program involves everyone from those who design the roads to those who use them.

The public wholeheartedly should embrace this concept, from the kid thinking about dashing across the street to the motorist speeding up just a little to make that appointment on time.

These and many other scenarios are recipes for disaster. I know, because as a police reporter I have seen the lasting, terrible toll these tragedies take on friends and families for years to come.

Will Vision Zero completely stop roadway deaths? Doubtful, but at least it’s the recognition of a problem and a process to address it.

Already city officials a couple of months ago celebrated the completion of a new Z-Crossing on Broadway across from the DoSeum. The unique pattern enhances the safety of those who are crossing the street by attracting a motorist’s attention.

The other enhancements included in the Z-Crossing project are a median, ramps, solar-powered warning signs that blink and rapidly flashing lights.

It may be a small start, but infrastructure improvements such as the Z-Crossing, as well as more community awareness, could help the community reach the objective of Vision Zero.

Vision Zero could make a difference

ow that the school year is winding down,

motorists should pay more attention when driving through areas where children gather and play.

N

ON THE COVER: Though San Antonio officials argue that city dog parks are usually safe havens for man's four-legged friends, some pet owners aren't so sure, especially in light of a recent attack in which a pet was mauled to death on the North Side. Story starts on page 1. Photo by Rudy B. Ornelas

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3SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM

LOCAL COMMENTARY

It takes a village to educate a child by SUSAN YERKES

The traditional school

year begins to wind down in May, capped by graduation for

some and summer break for others. Unfortunately, nearly one in five adults in the Alamo City never experienced high school graduation – dropping out somewhere along the way.

It’s sad, and not just for those who lack many of the skills required both in the workplace and the increasingly challenging world. An educated workforce is one of the biggest assets a city has to draw and keep successful businesses,

providing more opportunities and raising the overall quality of life.

On a humane, personal basis, there’s good reason to care about giving our young people the best education possible so they can succeed. On a practical, civic basis, there’s also an equally important reason – to keep our economy healthy and competitive.

Today, things seem to be changing for the better. Citywide graduation rates have risen to over 85 percent. Even in the San Antonio Independent School District, where a few years ago less than 60 percent of students finished high school, now it’s more than 80 percent.

One of the keys to the improvement so far is a proliferation of programs aimed at helping children learn during their school years.

The Pre-K 4 SA program, which provides state-of-the-art, full-day learning, is quite strong, with some 2,000 children expected to enroll for the 2016-17 school year. The initiative is also growing beyond its four educational centers. In April, Pre-K 4 SA awarded a whopping $4.2 million in grants to area school districts, private schools and elsewhere, including the YMCA and Family Service Association, to fund their own innovative prekindergarten programs.

More schools are finding ways – and funding – to offer individual attention to students, or extend the day with exercise and extra-learning opportunities.

Private nonprofits are pitching in, too. San Antonio’s After-School All-Stars, offering inner-city children tutoring, a tech-savvy MIRACLE program and healthy play, celebrated 15 years in April.

SA Youth, which started in the basement of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in 1984, has worked with some 60,000 children and young adults over the years, and shows no signs of slowing down. San Antonio Sports’ “i play!” program gives thousands of third- through fifth-grade youngsters from the Harlandale Independent School District and SAISD a healthy dose of after-school fitness and mentoring. SAISD’s Young Women’s Leadership Academy is turning out impressive graduates, and the district has opened “community schools” at Crockett and Douglass elementaries. Thanks to a $1.8 million partnership with the University of Texas at San Antonio, university faculty, graduate assistants and staff work with students in after-school activities from robotics and math to music groups, and help get parents and community partners involved.

There are those who suggest none of this would be necessary if schools, or parents, did a better job of bringing up their children. However, criticism hasn’t helped much in the past. Instead, what seems to have aided the progress of San Antonio’s children is the collective will to get involved. There are dozens of schools and literacy programs out there in need of donations, or even better, volunteers.

I recently met up with Craig Bell, a semiretired pharmacist and passionate volunteer for San Antonio Youth Literacy’s “2nd Grade Reading Buddy.” The vigorous 77-year-old, and his wife Mary, have been working with the program’s 8-year-olds since 2013, and plan to keep it up “as long as we’re able,” he told me.

SAYL always needs volunteers; it’s a great place to start (check out sayl.org online), or find another activity appealing to you through the extensive volunteer-matching program at SA2020.org. I’ve helped at several programs in the past, and writing this has reminded me it’s time to get involved again. Because it really does take a village to raise a child these days – at least, it sure helps.

syerkes@localcommunitynews.com

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OUR TURNViews and opinions about your community

To avoid further controversy, McManus should either step down or start repairing the rift at SAPD.

The rank-and-file vote is undoubtedly tied to the politics of recent contract talks, but it also has much to do with a belief the chief is unwilling to support his officers.

The chief doesn’t plan on resigning; the no-confidence vote, passed by a whopping 97 percent of members, isn’t binding.

Though he’s been here a decade, McManus still came from outside SAPD. Anyone familiar with local

history knows the SAPD brethren prefer being led by one of their own, someone who paid his or her dues while rising through its ranks.

Witness what happened to Chief Charles Rodriguez in the mid-1980s after a scandal rocked the department and he stepped down. Though a competent and progressive commander, Rodriguez, who hailed from California, already was unpopular due to his outsider status.

It can be argued others faced greater challenges than McManus. During Chief William Gibson’s tenure, the city saw a record rise in homicides. A local SAPD veteran, Gibson and his team quickly developed programs — directed patrols, increased substations, more foot patrol officers — to inhibit crime rates, thereby creating a safer city.

Is it time for McManus to exit? He is a capable and competent professional who would excel in almost any field. He already left SAPD once for a job at CPS Energy, but returned to the department after just a few months’ absence.

If McManus insists on staying, he needs to mend his standing with the officers; otherwise public confidence could suffer.

Repair rift at SAPD

The recent overwhelming vote of no confidence in San Antonio Police Chief

William McManus by the officers’ collective bargaining association is a warning sign the highest level of command at the San Antonio Police Department could be in trouble.

-The Local Community News editorial board includes Harry Lees, Gregg Rosenfield and Thomas Edwards.

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OUR GUIDE

TO YOUR MONTH

Plan your month with our calendar of upcoming events in the community.

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Caring Solutions San Antonio is hiring Caregivers!We provide non-medical in-home care forthe elderly. Our Caregivers assist withcompanionship, creating fun activities,

errands, meal preparation, and personal care.

NEISD BOARD The next meetings of North East Independent School District

trustees will be 5:30 p.m. at 8961 Tesoro Drive. To confirm dates and times of sessions normally scheduled on the second Monday of the month, call 407-0533.

GET TO KNOW YOUR JCC The Barshop Jewish Community Center

conducts an open house with tours of the facilities, children’s activities, fitness assessments, membership specials and more from 4-7 p.m. Reservations are requested. The JCC is on the Campus of the San Antonio Jewish Community, 12500 N.W. Military Highway. For more, visit www.jccsanantonio.org/openhouse or call 302-6827.

CASTLE HILLS The next meetings of the City Council are at 6:30 p.m. in City Hall,

209 Lemonwood Drive, on the second Tuesday of the month. For more, visit http://www.cityofcastlehills.com/.

REMEMBERING THE HOLOCAUST Roger C. Barnes, University of the Incarnate

Word professor of sociology and criminal justice, will present a lecture from 6-7:30 p.m. at the Cody Branch Library, 11441 Vance Jackson Road. “The Final Solution: Nazi Extermination Camps in Poland” examines the country’s six major concentration camps. For more, call 207-9100.

ON WITH THE SHOW The Barshop Jewish Community Center’s Sheldon Vexler Theatre,

12500 N.W. Military Highway, presents “One Man, Two Guvnors.” Performances are Thursdays at 7:30 p.m.; Saturdays at 8 p.m.; and Sundays at 2:30 p.m. Tickets range from $16 to $22. The JCC is on the Campus of the San Antonio Jewish Community. To purchase tickets, call 302-6835. For more, visit www.jccsanantonio.org.

FITNESS IN THE PARK Get into aerobic-based exercise and yoga at Phil Hardberger Park

from 9-11 a.m. The San Antonio Parks & Recreation Department class is free; no registration is required. Use the park’s eastern entrance at 13203 Blanco Road. For more, visit http://www.philhardbergerpark.org/.

FILM AND CONCERT See a documentary followed by a live performance. The Barshop

Jewish Community Center hosts Avi Vaknin and “Rock in the Red Zone,” depicting rock ’n’ roll’s survival through military conflict in the Middle East. The film begins at 6:30 p.m.; concert at 8 p.m. The JCC is on the Campus of the San Antonio Jewish Community, 12500 N.W. Military Highway. For more, call Maya Siler at 302- 6867. To purchase $15 tickets, call 302-6820.

WHAT’S COOKING The Barshop Jewish Community Center hosts “Get Cookin’ with Amy

MAY 9, JUNE 13

MAY 10,JUNE 14

MAY 12- JUNE 15

MAY10

MAY14

MAY12

MAY17

MAY15

HAPPENING continues on pg. 06

6 MAY 9 - JUNE 13, 2016

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Kritzer.” The chef and author will lead an interactive cooking demonstration of her Jewish recipes at 6 p.m. Tickets are $20. The JCC is on the Campus of the San Antonio Jewish Community, 12500 N.W. Military Highway. Purchase tickets online at www.jccsanantonio.org/seasons or call 302-6867.

DROP-IN MAHJONGThe Senior Center at the Barshop Jewish Community

Center is the site on the third Wednesday every month at 6:30 p.m. for mahjong. Coffee will be served. Everyone is welcome to play. The JCC is on the Campus of the San Antonio Jewish Community, 12500 N.W. Military Highway. For more, call Cathy Pottorf at 302-6870.

SILVER CINEMA On the first and third Thursday of each month at 1 p.m., a free film

will be screened for senior citizens at the Barshop Jewish Community Center’s Holzman Auditorium; no cost for popcorn and coffee, too. Walk-ins are welcome. The JCC is on the Campus of the San Antonio Jewish Community, 12500 N.W. Military Highway. For more, call 302-6860.

LEARN ABOUT NATUREMaster naturalist Drake White makes a presentation about

wildflowers, butterflies and more from 9-11 a.m. at the Voelcker Homestead, accessed through Phil Hardberger Park’s eastern entrance, 13203 Blanco Road. No registration required. The lecture is free; a small donation to the conservancy is suggested. For more, visit http://www.philhardbergerpark.org.

CHINESE LESSON As part of Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month, the Cody Branch

Library, 11441 Vance Jackson Road, hosts an introduction to Chinese language and culture from 2-3 p.m. Learn customs, traditions plus common Mandarin phrases and writing characters from instructor Y.C. Tang. For more, call Monty Holcomb at 207-9180.

SHAVANO PARK The City Council holds its meeting at 6:30 p.m. in City Hall,

900 Saddletree Court, on the fourth Monday of the month. For more, visit http://www.shavanopark.org/.

NISD TRUSTEES The Northside Independent School District board regularly meets the

fourth Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. in the conference room at 5900 Evers Road. Sessions are open to the public. For more, visit www.nisd.net.

HOW GREEN IS YOUR GARDEN?The Bexar County Master

Gardeners provides social time at 6 p.m. followed by a 6:30-8:30 p.m. seminar at 3355 Cherry Ridge St., Suite 208. The free presentation by David Rodriguez of Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service will discuss traditional and organic gardening, plus pest management. For more, visit http://www.bexarmg.org.

OFF AND RUNNING#Entrepreneur 5K, presented by Bella Life Training, will start

at 9 a.m. from Eisenhower Park, 19399 N.W. Military Highway. Registration and packet pickup is 8 a.m. There will be vendors, music and activities for kids, too. For more including registration costs, visit www.athleteguild.com.

PLANT TALK Janis Merritt shares how plants were used in the daily lives

of Native Americans and pioneers, and how plants continue to be used

today. The Urban Ecology Center hosts the 8-10 a.m. event. The lecture is free; a small donation is suggested. The center can be accessed via the western entrance at Phil Hardberger Park, 8400 N.W. Military Highway. For more, visit http://www.philhardbergerpark.org.

SCHOOL’S OUT – MEMORIAL DAY & SUMMER BREAK Campuses in the North East

and Northside independent school districts will be closed for the holiday May 30; the school year ends June 3.

ART EXHIBIT “The German Roots of Zionism” will be on display during regular business

hours at the Barshop Jewish Community Center. The JCC is on the Campus of the San Antonio Jewish Community, 12500 N.W. Military Highway. Admission is free. For more, call Maya Siler at 302-6867.

HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATIONChurchill High School’s commencement ceremony for

the class of 2016 takes place at 2:30 p.m. in Freeman Coliseum, 3201 E. Houston St. For more, visit www.neisd.net.

HAPPENING continues from pg. 05

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HAPPENING continues on pg. 07

7SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM

WHO LET THE DOGS OUT?Join the annual parade of pooches wearing their favorite

costumes. The dog walk starts at 9:30 a.m.; parade commences 10:30 a.m. Prizes awarded to the most unique, cutest and best costumes. No registration is required for the event beginning on the field behind the playground at Phil Hardberger Park’s western entrance, 8400 N.W. Military Highway. Though free, a small donation is suggested. For more, call 492-7472 or email admin@philhardbergerpark.org.

HUNGRY? EAT A PLANTCome to the eastern entrance at Phil Hardberger Park,

13203 Blanco Road, from 9-11 a.m., when Elizabeth Day will discuss the edible and medicinal values in many native South Texas plants. A kid-friendly activity is included. No registration for the free event is required; a small donation to the park conservancy is suggested. For more, call 492-7472 or email admin@philhardbergerpark.org.

NEVER TOO OLD TO LEARN More than schoolchildren can gain knowledge. The North East

Independent School District Community Education program presents a multitude of enriching courses for adults. Most classes are taught in NEISD facilities or the district’s Community Learning Center, 8750 Tesoro Drive. For more, visit https://communityed.neisd.net or call Carrie Smith, NEISD community education coordinator, at 401-0140.

CAMP GAN ISRAEL The summer camp at 14535 Blanco Road, presented by

Chabad Lubavitch of South Texas, is full of fun activities for children as young as 18 months to those entering eighth grade. Providing a Jewish emphasis, various age divisions are offered. Limited scholarships are available. Costs increase after May 20. For specific dates, times, prices and registration details, email Director@GanIsraelSA.com, visit www.GanIsraelSA.com or call 764-0300.

MUSIC FOR A CAUSE The County Line Bar-B-Q’s live music series is back this year

on a new night. Weekly entertainment through Sept. 30 benefits the San Antonio Food Bank, with the headliner

HAPPENING continues from pg. 06

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8 MAY 9 - JUNE 13, 2016

LOCAL LOWDOWNTake a quick look at what’s new in the community from opening and closings to news tidbits.

Open and Opening Soon Address of local business

Name of local business

1. M&N INTERIORISM, 14359 Blanco Road, offers furniture and home décor, as well as specializing in interior design, lighting and decorative features for the home. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday. For more, call 547-2773 or visit www.mninteriorism.com. (See story on page 21) 2. POLLO TROPICAL, 6007 West Ave. in Castle Hills, opened in February and offers patrons an extensive menu of both Caribbean cuisine and homestyle dishes. Hours are 10:30 a.m. to midnight daily. For more, call 200-8099 or visit www.pollotropical.com. (See story on page 22)

IN OTHER NEWSTHE ALAMO AREA METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION’S TRANSPORTATION POLICY BOARD recently approved $8 million in additional funding for Wurzbach Road traffic relief. District

8 Councilman Ron Nirenberg, who serves on the board, has said Wurzbach Road is important for many reasons, including its status as the main route to the South Texas Medical Center. The councilman has focused on reducing traffic congestion by coordinating funding through the city, the MPO and the Texas Department of Transportation. As part of the city’s 2016 fiscal year budget, Nirenberg secured $1 million for Wurzbach improvements, which was matched by a $1 million allocation from TxDOT, now bringing the total funding for Wurzbach up to $10 million. According to officials, the corridor remains on the MPO’s list of top long-range funding priorities.

DISTRICT 9 COUNCILMAN JOE KRIER said it’s time to nip the North Side’s oak-wilt problem in the bud. “I’ve heard from many District 9 residents who are concerned about oak wilt, a fungus that attacks the roots of oaks and can kill the trees within a few weeks,” Krier said in a

recent newsletter. “Oak wilt has a foothold in north San Antonio, but the city doesn’t have a strong enough plan to contain it. I want to change that.” Krier and his staff are working on an ordinance to shift city brush collection so it doesn’t occur from Feb. 1 to July 1. “Springtime is the period when fungal mats are most likely to form on oaks and sap beetles, which spread the fungus, are most active,” Krier said. “Experts agree: Avoid tree trimming in that time period. I’ve also sought to increase public awareness of the problem, which threatens our city’s tree canopy, property values and our quality of life.”

THE NORTHSIDE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT WANTS TO HIRE 500 to 600 new teachers for the 2016-17 school year, both to meet growth demands and to replace retiring educators. NISD is the area’s largest school district with more than 104,000 students and will be adding two new elementary schools next year, with a projected enrollment of another 2,000 pupils, according to officials.

CHURCHILL HIGH SCHOOL SOPHOMORE ELIJAH KING took home first-place honors for his design in the Imagination Texas T-shirt Design Contest, part of the Imagination Texas: Special Weekend for

the Deaf event held April 9 in Fort Worth. Deaf-education program students from Churchill attended the event. King took second place in the same event last year.

NORTH EAST INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT STAFF AND TRUSTEES JOINED Churchill High School employees and students for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the grand reopening of the school’s library April 12. The event coincided with National Library Week, which was April 11-15, as well as the 50th anniversary of Churchill. Improvements to the library included technology upgrades, better lighting and replacing tall bookshelves with shorter, more mobile shelves that can be moved to create space for community and school events.

THE COMMUNITY, INTERFAITH, EDUCATION AND LITERACY, OR C.I.E.L.O., GARDEN at the House of Prayer Lutheran Church, 10226 Ironside Drive, held its fifth annual celebration and blessing April 1. The C.I.E.L.O. Garden was “started to spur service collaboration among people from different religious and ethnic backgrounds,” and serves area immigrants and foreign refugees by helping them build

LOWDOWN continues on pg. 09

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social bonds, as well as “become active participants in their neighborhoods and acquire language and leadership skills through the maintenance of community gardens.” The event featured speeches by District 8 Councilman Ron Nirenberg and other community leaders, as well as a lunch prepared by local officials.

THE BEXAR COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY ANNOUNCED A MAY 24 dedication at The Doctors’ House, its recently finished new headquarters at 4334 N. Loop 1604 West. According to a spokesman, BCMS is the first and oldest medical organization in the state, founded in 1853. The organization covers Bexar County and surrounding

counties, boasting a membership of 4,700 — which makes it the eighth-largest medical society in the United States. To learn more, visit www.bcms.org.

CASTLE HILLS FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH IS SELLING its 130,000-square foot special-purpose religious facility at 2220 N.W. Military Highway in Castle Hills, according to local real-estate agents. The seller’s price is undisclosed for the church, which was built in 1955 but lately has seen attendance drop while at the same time opening smaller satellite churches, including in Leon Springs. The complex occupies about 15 acres of a 20-acre tract. In 1999, the city and the church fought a legal battle after Castle Hills blocked efforts by the church to expand its parking area.

LOWDOWN continues from pg. 08

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DOG PARK continues from pg. 01

While the episode is tragic, city officials said recorded instances of attacks in San Antonio dog parks are extremely rare.

Animal Care Services received only three reports of dog bites in area dog parks from January 2015 through February 2016, said Shannon Sims, ACS field operations manager.

One of those reports, he noted, was unconfirmed. The others involved a dog-to-dog attack and a dog-to-person incident. Neither was serious.

“There may have been other incidents that were not reported to ACS,” said Sims, who believes dog parks are great for owners and their pets.

“For folks who have high-energy dogs, I definitely support individuals taking them out to a park to burn off energy. It helps reduce aggression. Letting dogs interact and socialize at a dog park is a good thing,” Sims said.

He encourages folks to get their dogs out into the parks.

“In the long run, it creates a more stable animal,” he said.

But Andrea said returning to a dog park, if she ever gets another dog, is

ETIQUETTE TIPS FOR DOGS AT OFF-LEASH PARKSn Make sure your pooch is well-behaved around other dogs, people and children.n Always keep your dog leashed outside the dog park or outside of an area designated as off-leash. This includes walking your dog to the dog park from the parking lot. n Make sure your dog is eligible to use the dog park. Most dog parks have rules for eligibility, including requiring rabies shots and licensing. Vaccinations for parvovirus and distemper may be required. n Female dogs in heat are usually prohibited at dog parks and some dog parks require that all dogs be spayed or neutered. n Most dog parks require that you pick up after your dog, but owners should do this even if it’s not required. n Dogs may be more aggressive when they are with other dogs. If your dog is aggressive, remove it from the park.n If you want to take your dog or dogs to run in a dog park without the presence of other canines, try early in the morning or late evening.

Source: www.dogfriendly.com

DOG PARK continues on pg. 11

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not for her. The owner of the dog that attacked Paris refused to give his name or any identifying information, and when the Park Police arrived, she said officers told her pet owners when they enter a dog park are assuming a risk that something could happen to their animal.

She remains traumatized.“I’m not ready to adopt another dog,”

Andrea said. Dog parks are indeed risky

places, said some experts.“I don’t care for dog parks,” said

professional dog trainer Karen Pearce. “You don’t know if the animals there have been vaccinated, you don’t know what they have. You also don’t know behaviors or how other people’s dogs will react to your dog or strangers.”

An accident waiting to happen is how Pearce describes dog parks.

“Part of the problem is too many people don’t really know their dogs or understand dog behavior,” she said.

“For example, if your dog is shy, other dogs in a park may gang up on her. And that is a prescription for disaster. It can lead to fear-biting by the shy dog and aggressive responses from other dogs.”

According to the dog trainer, “Walking is probably the best form of exercise for you and your dog. And it is safer than going to a dog park.”

Despite Pearce’s concerns, there are residents such as Michael Main who enjoy the convenience of a nearby city dog park.

“I am at a dog park pretty much every day — usually McAllister (Park) and on weekends at Hardberger,” he said. “I enjoy allowing my dogs to run. They like the freedom to run off leash. They have a lot of energy. The parks are fenced and I can catch them, eventually. I’ve met some great people out here too.”

Main said he has witnessed hackles rise, but not involving the dogs.

“I’ve seen some problems, but mostly between people rather than between

DOG PARK continues on pg. 12

Veterinarian Ashley Hagauer of Alamo Hills Animal Hospital, seen here with Brownie, says that dog parks are good for socialization, but owners should know how their pets interact with other canines before entering one. Also, vaccinations should be up to date. Photo by Rudy B. Ornelas

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their dogs,” he said. “There are those who don’t regularly walk or exercise their dogs but decide one day to go to a dog park at 2 p.m. when the parks are mobbed. Sometimes their dogs are not socialized and that can lead to problems.”

He offered some advice for folks thinking about visiting a dog park.

“If you have never been to one and your dog hasn’t been around other dogs, go early in the morning when it’s not crowded,” Main said. “Try some of the smaller dog parks.”

He suggested a “hidden gem” — Lady Bird Johnson Park, 10700 Nacogdoches Road.

“No one knows about it,” he said. “It’s a great place to introduce you and your dog to a dog park.”

Other tips include taking petite dogs to the small-dog section and removing their leash, because otherwise they become “bait” while tethered. Also, clean up any messes your furry friend makes.

Dog parks can help canines socialize, according to veterinarian Ashley Hagauer of Alamo Hills Animal Hospital.

“Dog parks are a great tool for socialization,” she tells her clients. “They mentally stimulate dogs. But the

big thing I emphasize is be sure your pet is up to date on all vaccinations, especially against kennel cough and the newest issue, canine influenza virus.”

However, there are a few things to keep in mind when visiting a dog park.

“Before you go to a dog park, know how your dog will interact with other

DOG PARK continues from pg. 11

There are several off-leash dog parks on the North Side.

LADY BIRD JOHNSON PARK 10700 Nacogdoches Road

MCALLISTER DOG PARK 13102 Jones Maltsberger Road

PANTHER SPRINGS PARK 22635 Wilderness Oak Road

PHIL HARDBERGER PARK EAST 13203 Blanco Road

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CITY DOG PARKS

dogs,” Hagauer said. “Some dogs are hyperactive and others are shy and nervous around other dogs. Learn to read your dog’s body language. Not all dogs enjoy the dog park. The majority do, but not all.”

Most important, she emphasized, is to remember, “Dog parks are not the place

for dogs that don’t like other dogs. And if you or your dog is bitten, get the phone number of the other dog’s veterinarian and try to determine if the dog is current on their rabies vaccination.”

Any animal suffering a serious bite in a dog park should be seen very soon by a veterinarian.

Fans of off-leash dog parks such as the one at McAllister Park say they are great places for pooches to learn to socialize — some even advertise their birthday parties. However, a local veterinarian warns owners need to learn their animals' 'body language' to avoid problems. Photo by Rudy B. Ornelas

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WOODSTONE continues from pg. 01

District 8 Councilman Ron Nirenberg said up to $55,000 is being appropriated to create better driving conditions along Woodstone Drive, which runs from the Interstate 10 West frontage road to Vance Jackson Road.

Police have responded to 35 calls involving auto accidents on Woodstone or the intersection with Vance Jackson since Jan. 1, according to information provided by the Prue Substation.

On Feb. 13, Nick Medlock died after his car hit a tree in the 4900 block of Woodstone.

Project should take only a monthby BAIN SERNA

New safety features are coming to a deadly stretch of road on

the North Side in the wake of dozens of accidents so far this year, including one that claimed the life of a 17-year-old motorist.

Nirenberg said the time has come to make the road safer.

“Future incidents can be reduced simply by making drivers and pedestrians aware of the challenges in this roadway,” including increasing signage and pavement markings, the councilman said.

“It’s critically important to take these steps and raise awareness, because any accident that could be prevented is an accident that is unacceptable,” he added.

Nirenberg said the improvements will go hand-in-hand with the Vision Zero campaign, an initiative by San Antonio and other cities to eliminate fatalities and roadway injuries by raising awareness of safety precautions and standards on city streets.

“Our Vision Zero goals for the city mean that preventing injury and loss of life is the No. 1 transportation priority in San Antonio,” Nirenberg said.

The District 8 Office and the city’s Transportation & Capital Improvements department are planning a Neighborhood Access Mobility Program, or NAMP, to establish safety enhancements for Woodstone from I-10 to Vance Jackson.

The work includes re-painting pavement markings and the addition

WOODSTONE continues on pg. 14

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of buffers between existing bike lanes and lanes for motorists. Crews also will re-stripe the intersection of Woodstone and Vance Jackson with pavement directional arrows, crosswalks and signs pointing out one-lane assignments, according to officials.

Also at the crossroads, the left-turn-only lane will be extended to provide more vehicles the opportunity to queue for a lefthand turn. New signs will be installed as well, officials say

Nirenberg said funding is being drawn from the NAMP, with input from Transportation & Capital Improvements.

“Along Woodstone Drive from IH-10 to Vance Jackson Road, the pavement markings will be re-striped,” said April Luna, a spokeswoman with Transportation & Capital Improvements. “This will include a new, 3-foot buffer along the existing bike lanes and along the median in both directions. These new buffers will help to narrow the travel lanes to 11 feet in both directions, therefore acting as a traffic-calming measure to reduce speeding.”

The project is expected to start and finish in May, according to officials.

WOODSTONE continues from pg. 13

ABOVE: Improvements and traffic-calming measures are coming to Woodstone Drive between Interstate 10 and Vance Jackson Road, an area that has seen dozens of auto accidents and even a fatality.

RIGHT: Jessica Lambert (left) and Carmen Abrajan live in an apartment complex off of Woodstone Drive, and say almost every night they hear cars coming to screeching halts. Photos by Rudy B. Ornelas

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CASTLE HILLS continues from pg. 01

Phase 2 of the Road Improvement Project has been underway since April 7. Enhancements are slated for eight streets: Adobe Drive, Danube Drive, Gladiola Lane, Krameria Drive, Mimosa Drive, Zornia Drive, East Castle Lane and West Castle Lane.

“Phase 2 of the project, the second batch of streets, is moving forward,” said Mayor Tim Howell. “This is the first group of streets to get SAWS (San Antonio Water System) involved. We’re digging up some of the streets and adding utilities on some streets.”

By working with SAWS on Phase 2, Howell said it will allow the same contractor to move the utilities and reduce the chance of delay for the sewer adjustments, as well as repair the streets and minimize disruption to existing customers and residents.

Phase 2 could take up to six months. The agreement with SAWS also

helped Castle Hills reduce costs on the project. As part of the joint bidding, SAWS contributed more than $2 million, while Castle Hills ponied up $600,000.

Phase 1 of the Road Improvement Project began in September and

involved Halbart Drive, Honeysuckle Lane, Twinleaf Lane, Gladiola Lane, Herweck Drive and Tamworth Drive.

Another component of the Road Improvement Project is addressing drainage and flooding issues.

Howell said, “All of the building going on around (Castle Hills) has put a burden on streets, buildings on West Avenue and Lockhill-Selma (Road).”

Buildings, parking lots and roads over natural landscapes — called impervious cover — can block the absorption of water from rain storms, leading to flooding.

A record-breaking shower May 25, 2013, caused flash flooding across San Antonio and hit Castle Hills particularly hard.

The estimated cost from the storm in Castle Hills was $282,000 to repair 25 streets and drainage ways, including clearing debris. Howell said his house got hit with 3 inches of water during the flooding of 2013.

To help with drainage and curb the risk of rising water, city officials recently completed a Comprehensive Master Drainage Plan.

Councilman Douglas Gregory is chairman of the drainage committee.

In a statement on the city’s website, Douglas said the Master Drainage Plan “for the first time will enable everyone to know what needs to be done with our infrastructure and the scope and cost needed to get there.”

The Master Drainage Plan uses compiled data to develop and serve as a guide for infrastructure maintenance, future development and remedies to some of Castle Hills’ flooding issues.

“The street maintenance and repairs will only be successful if they are supported by improvements to stormwater drainage,” Howell said.

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The academy, where students are in sixth through 12th grades, is part of a growing emphasis both nationally and at the state level on science, technology, engineering and math — or STEM — courses that involve advanced learning.

Highlighting the need for Americans to stay competitive in the global job market, President Obama in recent years has pushed for more funding and expansion of STEM education across the country.

“We strive to prepare our students to be

critical thinkers and problem-solvers,” said Melissa Alcala, STEM Academy director. “If we can enhance their ability to create, think critically, communicate and work within a team, while providing a solid education, then we are giving them the best preparation to be successful in college and competitive in a job market where one must be able to evolve and adapt to the future and jobs that don’t yet exist.”

The North East Independent School District STEM Academy started in 2007 and operates on the “School Within a School” model — a magnet campus. STEM has its own faculty, administration and counselors, though students use their main campus for general electives such as fine arts, athletics and foreign language.

STEM has about 120 students per grade level, with the high school enrollment a little over 400 pupils and the middle school with about 320. Projected growth for 2016-17 is a total of 800 students, according to officials.

“We offer a small learning community,” Alcala said. “The students receive a specialized, cross-curricular approach to STEM education while also covering the state-required curriculum.”

STEM students go beyond the classroom to learn about science and

Parents are saying program helps kids with job prospects

by BAIN SERNA

From robotics to solar technology, the STEM Academy at Lee High and

Nimitz Middle schools is focused on teaching today’s students how to create the tools of tomorrow.

STEM continues on pg. 17

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technology through excursions and lab experiences, educators said.

Extracurricular activities and programs to sharpen pupils’ scientific skills include:

• Robotics: Students working in a team create a 120-pound robot.

• Engineering: STEM students are building a solar kiosk for the campus courtyard so classmates can charge cellphones during lunch time.

• Science fair: Students take part in team or individual projects based on their science interest. Winners advance from regionals to national and even international meets.

• Ambassadors: The student-led organization lets pupils have a voice in STEM program operations.

• CyberPatriots: This cybersecurity competition teaches students ethical hacking and how to protect a network.

• Mathematics: Students can compete in math contests such as the Calculus Bowl, Chemistry Olympiad and the Trig Star Competition.

Harrison Frende, a senior, has attended

the STEM Academy since sixth grade.“I knew that robotics was a part of

what STEM did, so I chose that over a traditional middle school,” Frende said. “I enjoy the close-knit relationship that is formed in each STEM graduating class.”

Frende, who likes math, has participated in five robotics teams. He also is a STEM ambassador. After graduation, he hopes to attend college and earn a master’s degree in mechanical engineering and to work in the field of prosthetics and bionics.

He credits his educators for helping him find a career path, and the STEM curriculum for improving his job prospects.

“I like that each teacher puts forth an effort to know all of their students,” he said. “Not only are STEM skills important, but they also teach teamwork, cooperation, critical thinking and countless other skills that employers look for in new hires.”

Parents also appreciate the academy’s role in preparing their children for the future by allowing them to focus on science, technology, engineering and math.

STEM continues on pg. 18

Ninth-graders David Schlaeter (left) and Ingval Hanon work on building a physical bridge after putting together a digital version in Solidworks, an engineering design program. Photo by Collette Orquiz

18 MAY 9 - JUNE 13, 2016

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“The robotics program is particularly robust,” said Debi Pfitzenmaier, whose son is a senior at STEM. Pfitzenmaier also is the director of Youth Code Jam, an organization teaching computer coding to teens and kids, some of whom attend the academy.

The extracurricular programs are especially important, she added.

“Kids are exposed in very hands-on,

STEM continues from pg. 17 interactive ways to concepts and careers that they would not get to explore so deeply in the classroom,” she said.

The academy offers an education in what to expect, even when it’s the unexpected, parents said.

“With the way technology is developing, we don’t even know what the jobs of the future will be,” Pfitzenmaier said. “But it’s a safe bet that they will all incorporate some type of science, technology, engineering or math.”

The ROSBOTS tweak a robot they built last year for competition as part of the programs offered at the STEM Academy. Photo by Alejandra Casas

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About a month ago acustomer came into thestore asking why we didn’thave a product that hereally wanted. I had neverheard of the product butit sounded like a goodidea so I called the vendorand asked them to sendus a carton. The product

is called Flexi Scour and it is a flexible scrubbingscreen made by the Pumie company. I was a littleleery when we got them in but immediately tookone home to try on cleaning my toilets. I wasshocked, these little screens are awesome. Theyare flexible so they can get in all the little curvesunder the rim of your toilet. You can removetough, tough hard water stains without any cleaner,mildew literally is wiped away with a few swipes nowonder this customer was anxious to have themin the store. Flexi Scour devours baked on foodfrom grills and grates and really does a better jobthan scratch pads and cleaners. I don’’t have a pool,but many of you that contact me about hard waterbuild up on tile around the pool edge should try theFlexi Scour. As always try in an inconspicuous spotfirst to make sure it does not scratch your tile. FlexiScour is under $2.00 and a good new product tokeep around the house. If you have a product thatyou love around the house, share it with me and Ican share it with all your neighbors.Question: Our pergola is about 6 years old wehave some rotting wood on three of the uprightsupports. Is there some way to repair this withoutreplacing the support columns?Answer: Yes you can with a product called MinwaxWood Hardener. Remove the paint at the bottomof the columns where your soft wood is by eithersanding or using a remover. I don’’t think thatyou will need to sand that much; it looks likethat the paint will easily flake off. Once the paintis removed apply the Minwax Wood Hardenerwith an inexpensive foam brush. Minwax WoodHardener has a capillary action that causes thewood to absorb the hardener down to the goodwood. Apply 3 thin coats letting dry betweencoats. The final coat will be shiny and that meansthat the column has absorbed all of the hardenerthat it can. Wait 24 hours. The column will be rockhard again. If you had any void areas, this wouldbe the time to apply the MinwaxWood Filler. Sandthe filler smooth in 20 minutes, and then the nextday you will be ready to do touch up painting. Noprimer is required.Question: Our granite countertops have hardwater stains that are virtually impossible to remove.What product do your suggest I use?Answer: I am thinking that most of the stains areby the faucets and I want you to do 2 things. UseGranite Gold Shower Cleaner and spray on thestain let sit for a few minutes. Then using a straightedge razor blade (the kind that you remove windowstickers with) scrape smoothly across the graniteto remove the bulk of the build- up, rinse with theGranite Gold Daily Cleaner. Wipe dry with a softcloth. Use the Granite Gold Sealer and wipe in witha lint free cloth. Wait 2 hours before using yourcountertop your granite will look good as new!

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HAPPENING continues from pg. 07

19

performing from 7:30-9:30 p.m. on the open-air patio. Admission is free, but attendees can contribute a nonperishable food item or monetary donation to the food bank. Upcoming performers include The Mike Ryan Band (May 12); The Damn Quails (May 19); Band of Heathens (May 26); Ruby Jane (June 2); and Cody Canada (June 9). The restaurant is at 10101 Interstate 10 West. For more including an updated music lineup, visit http://countyline.com/I10Music_shedule_sponsors.html or call 641-1998.

GOODWILL PICKUPS Goodwill Industries offers donation pickup services for

large amounts of clothing, household items and furniture at Bexar County residences. For more, call 271-8881 or fill out pickup forms available at www.goodwillsa.org/home-pickup-services.

YOSA INVITATIONAL Youth Orchestras of San Antonio will give 16 area school

bands and orchestras a chance to perform and record in the H-E-B Performance Hall at the Tobin Center for Performing Arts next spring. Schools within a 75-mile radius of the Tobin can apply at http://www.yosa.org/invitational/; the deadline is June 1. Eight middle school and eight high school ensembles will be invited to perform, free of charge, on May 15-16, 2017. Professional audio recording and photography are included.

ELSEWHERE IN SAN ANTONIO

SEVEN SEAS FOOD FESTIVALFrom 11 a.m. until the park closes, SeaWorld San Antonio,

10500 Sea World Drive, hosts the second annual food and wine extravaganza. Culinary delights from a dozen countries are represented in more than 65 chef-created dishes, unique wines, craft cocktails and beers. Cooking demonstrations, food artistry and live family entertainment are part of the fun, too. Prices start at $19.99. For more, visit https://seaworldparks.com/en/seaworld-sanantonio/seven-seas-food-wine-festival/menus.

SONS OF CONFEDERATE VETERANS, CAMP 153On the third Tuesday of the

month, Hood’s Texas Brigade, Camp 153, meets at 7 p.m. at Grady’s Bar-B-Q, 6510 San Pedro Ave. Members and guests are welcome to eat beginning at 6 p.m.; no reservations are required. For more, visit www.hoodstexasbde.com.

ONGOING

ONGOING

MAY14-15

MAY17

HAPPENING continues on pg. 20

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Get Fit.Fitness in the Park offers a wide-range of fitness and exercise

classes at a park near you. Best of all, it’s 100% free. No fees…no registration…no excuses.

Just come exercise with us and enjoy a healthier you!

Visit www.sanantonio.gov/parksandrec

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RETIRED TEACHERS MEETINGThe North San Antonio Retired Teachers Association

conducts a 9:45 a.m. gathering the third Wednesday of each month at San Pedro Presbyterian Church, 14900 U.S. 281 North. Attendees are updated with information useful to former educators. For more, call Michele Bibb at 494-8197.

SONS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION The San Antonio chapter of the national

organization holds its monthly luncheon 11:30 a.m. at the Petroleum Club, 8620 N. New Braunfels Ave. Lunch costs $25. RSVPs are required. Call David Brooks at 740-296-8782 or email reservations@sarsat.org by the Monday before the meeting. The chapter gathers on the third Wednesday each month, except July and August.

SAN ANTONIO CIVIL WAR ROUND TABLE The group gathers on the third Thursday

of the month at Grady’s Bar-B-Q, 6510 San Pedro Ave., for a 6 p.m. dinner and 7 p.m. meeting. Those interested in Civil War history are invited to share stories and ideas. No reservations are required.

For more, contact Nancy Hodges at lyndz76@yahoo.com or Daniel Snell at surveyking@satx.rr.com.

ARMED FORCES RIVER PARADEThis year’s one-hour event

along the River Walk salutes 75 years of USO troop support. Admission is free. The Arneson River Theatre, 418 Villita St., has limited seating, but seats are plentiful elsewhere along the route. Parade starts at 6 p.m. from the International Center, 203 S. St. Mary’s St. For more, visit TheSanAntonioRiverWalk.com.

NATIVE PLANT SOCIETY OF TEXAS The monthly meeting of the organization’s San

Antonio chapter will start with a seed and native-plant exchange at 6:30 p.m., followed by the 7 p.m. program at Lions Field Adult Center, 2809 Broadway. The group gathers on the fourth Tuesday of the month, except August, November and December. For more, visit https://sanantoniochapter.wordpress.com.

SUBMITTING EVENTS: Email all the details along with your contact information two months in advance to tips@salocallowdown.com.

HAPPENING continues from pg. 19

MAY18

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MAY18

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“We incorporate dramatic lighting, fire and sometimes even water to create one-of-a kind interior designs that serve to beautify the interior of your home,” del Campo said.

The store is at 14359 Blanco Road.“I feel the best way to describe

our designs is unique, functional and exclusive home decorations,” he added.

The team of artisans creates a wide range of furnishings for the home, said del

Campo, who hails from Mexico City.“Our craftsmen utilize wood, stone,

crystal and wrought-iron pieces, and then add dramatic lighting to accent our incredible pieces,” he added.

The staff at M&N Interiorism will meet with clients to discuss their needs and desires.

“We have ready-made items for our customers to choose from, or we can handcraft creations (tailored) to fit their precise needs,” del Campo said.

Craftsmanship and style are integral parts of the design process, he added.

“We use quality materials in our wall art, chandeliers and furniture that have been enhanced with illumination,” del Campo said. “It is our goal to create a warm, inviting and dramatic style in our client’s home that is designed exclusively for them.”

M&N Interiorism utilizes artisans for unique lookby PETER MORALEZ

M&N Interiorism has assembled a team of artisans to offer ready-

made and handcrafted items perfect for the home, according to General Manager Mauricio del Campo.

Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.

M&N INTERIORISM14359 Blanco Road

For more, call 547-2773 orvisit www.mninteriorism.com

M&N Interiorism features unique furniture, home-decor accents, wall panels,and both practical and 'fun' lighting created by Mexican artisans. Photos by Collette Orquiz

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22 MAY 9 - JUNE 13, 2016

Skinny Strip center joint offers Asian fusion, Korean favorites

Hours 11am-9pm Sun-Thur; 11am-10pm Fri-Sat12651 Vance Jackson, Ste 108 • (210) 558-2018 • facebook.com/kogikoreangrill

Beef bulkogi • Gangnam Style street tacosPrice: $6.50-$8.95 lunch

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EAT LOCALLearn about the newest neighborhood places for breakfast, lunch, dinner or drinks

Founded in 1988, the chain’s latest, local edition debuted Feb. 27 at 6007 West Ave. It is the seventh Pollo Tropical restaurant in San Antonio, with nearly 30 in Texas and more worldwide.

“The San Antonio community has embraced our Caribbean culture and has

Pollo Tropical brings Caribbean flavors to Castle Hillsby OLIVIER J. BOURGOIN

CASTLE HILLS — Pollo Tropical continues to expand across the San

Antonio area, with the newest eatery offering exotic chicken recipes and Caribbean flavors galore.

become a big fan base for Pollo Tropical,” said Danny Meisenheimer, Pollo Tropical chief operating officer. “We continue to expand in this market and have more locations coming down the line.”

The fare on the Pollo Tropical menu is Caribbean-based; the company logo says it all, showing a stylized palm tree with the words: “Life’s Better Under the Palm.”

The main attraction is chicken, but not just any chicken. Pollo Tropical’s are hormone- and transfat-free, slow marinated in a blend of citrus, other fruit juices and Caribbean spices, and then flame-grilled.

The citrus flavors are subtle with the marinade acting as a natural tenderizer while providing a juicy and tender mouthful. Mojo Roast Pork, Calypso Beef

and Grilled Tropical Wings round out the meat choices, while a dozen side dishes are available, including the Caribbean corn soufflé, sweet plantain and yuca.

Staffers said the most popular item is the quarter-chicken plate, which can be eaten with an order of boiled yuca. Another one of the house specialties is the Tropichop — a generous serving of a chopped meat of choice, topped with rice, peppers, onions, red or black beans, kernel corn, tomatoes and a choice of sauces.

The restaurant is also known for its salsas, with nontraditional choices that include Spicy Poyo-Poyo, Cilantro Garlic, Curry Mustard, Guava BBQ and Pineapple Rum.

The expansion plan calls for 20 to 30 more restaurants to open in San Antonio within the next few years.

Fiesta Restaurant Group owns both Miami-based Pollo Tropical and San Antonio-based Taco Cabana. The company’s corporate headquarters is in Addison.

Hours at the Castle Hills store are 10:30 a.m. to midnight daily.

POLLO TROPICAL6007 West Ave. in Castle HillsFor more, call 200-8099 orvisit www.pollotropical.com

Pollo Tropical in Castle Hills features citrus-marinated grilled chicken and many other tropical flavors for healthier dining options with fresh ingredients. Photos by Collette Orquiz

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