COMMUNITY NEWS

Home-rule option would give city

extra latitude on annexation; residents

will have more say at City Hall

Though funding is lacking, members continue with awareness

FAIR OAKS RANCHLeon Springs group still hopes to preserve history

PG.12

PG.13

Find all digital editions at www.salocallowdown.com

I-10 CORRIDOR LEON SPRINGS FAIR OAKS RANCH THE DOMINION SONOMA RANCH78015 78023 78255 78256 78257

MAY 9 - JUNE 13, 2016VOL. 1, ISSUE 7

LOCAL EDITORIAL

SUSAN YERKES

PG. 06

PG. 05

Vote of no confidence in police chief does not bode well

The good news about area programs to improve graduation rates

Latest location at the Eilan has plenty of sizzle

RUTH'S CHRIS STEAK HOUSEEAT LOCALPG.18

FISH, FIRES AND FUNDRAISINGBoerne Volunteer Fire Department holds annual fish fry to help purchase equipment PG.15

TM

Graves Group

The

What’s your luxury?www.thegravesgroup.com 830-331-9898 I 210-408-4053

Denise GravesCertified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist

Nothing beats summertime in the Texas Hill Country.Call today and let us help you find your perfect summer living space.

Summertime...and the living is easy in the Hill CountryBuildNow InTime for Summer!

South Texas’ Original Pool Company. Gary Pools has been buildingand servicing swimming pools in and around San Antonio andSouth Texas since 1954. We are the largest family owned and

operated pool builder in Central and South Texas. If you’re thinking ofa pool, give us a call at 210-494-1313 – we’d love to hear from you.

Safety Best Value Most Efficient• 24/7 WIRELESS POOLSECURITY CAMERA

• PATENTED GARYPRIMUS SAFETY DRAIN

• STRONGERREINFORCING STEEL

• TOUGHER CONCRETE• PROVEN RELIABILITY

• EXCLUSIVEPOWER MISER PUMP

• 24/7 OPERATION• $18.87 A MONTH

13800 San Pedro Ave. • San Antonio, TX 78232 • garypools.com

Swim ReadyStarting in the

$30’SEVERY HOME DESERVES A GARY PO

OL

Everything for our children.™

It’s a transformation milestone.

All our love, all our strength, and all our care.

For all our children.

Our children deserve the finest health care possible.

The kind of care every parent wants, and every child

needs. That’s what you’ll find at the first and only

freestanding children’s hospital in San Antonio.

With a team of trusted and experienced physicians,

compassionate nurses and staff, private rooms, and

family-focused atmosphere, our newly transformed

spaces provide a safe and comforting place for you

and your child. See how The Children’s Hospital of

San Antonio provides everything for our children at

www.chofsa.org.

16-CHO-0653 Unveil Ad_9.75x11.5.indd 1 5/2/16 11:49 AM

4 MAY 9 - JUNE 13, 2016

President Harold J. LeesPublisherGregg RosenfieldDirector of OperationsJaselle Luna

Assoc. PublisherRick UptonEDITORIALExecutive EditorThomas EdwardsNews StaffCollette Orquiz, Bain Serna and Will Wright Contributing WritersOlivier J. Bourgoin, Alejandra Casas, Miranda Koerner, Edmond Ortiz, Lucille Sims Thomas, Arthur Schechter and Susan Yerkes

ARTCreative DirectorFlorence D. EdwardsContributing PhotographerRudy B. Ornelas

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

Advertising Inquiriesjluna@localcommunitynews.comStory Ideas: tips@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. 201San Antonio, TX 78229

LOCAL Community News publicationsZone 1: 78204, 78205, 78209, 78210, 78212, 78215Zone 2: 78213, 78230, 78231, 78248, 78249Zone 3: 78216, 78232, 78247Zone 4/5: 78109, 78148, 78233, 78239 78108, 78132, 78154, 78266Zone 6: 78258, 78259, 78260, 78261

Phone(210) 338.8842

9991 W IH 10 @ The Colonnade III

CALL NOW 210-227-3051www.sculptaway.com

Proven short cuts to your ideal bodyEvening & Saturday hours available

Live Treatment DemonstrationsMeet Fiona @ 5PM, star of SA Live

FREE Patient AssessmentsKSAT 12 filming live at our 5PM Event

BIG BLOWOUT EVENTSpecial Pricing - must be present to purchase

Raffle Drawings (must be present to win)

FEATURING• The Liquid Facelift for full facial rejuvenation -turn back time (non-surgical alternative to a facelift)

• Juvederm® for full, youthful lips• Voluma® for lifted and plumped cheekbones

(Winner of 2014 “Breakthrough Award”)• Kybella® for a chiseled jawline & slender neck

(Winner of Allure Magazine’s “Best of Beauty”)

BEYOND BOTOX®BEYOND BOTOXDoesn’t it seem like some celebrities seem to neverage? You know the ones. Their secret? Non-surgical“adjustments” like Juvederm®, Voluma®, Kybella™

& Botox®.J , , y

FIND OUT MORE.The body shapingexperts atannounce two educationalevents in June.

You are invvvited to learn how you, too,can have “““adjustments” to get(& keep) the look you want.( p) y

CCChhhampppagnnng e BBBrunchhhThursday, June 9, 201611AM-111PMorMartinnni’s & MunchiesThursday, June 9, 20165PM-7PPPM

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 about to conclude,

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

N

ON THE COVER: For more than three decades, the Boerne Volunteer Fire Department has been holding its yearly fish fry cookout to supplement funds from the city and Kendall County. See story on page 15. Photo by Rudy B. Ornelas

5SALOCALLOWDOWN.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

Bring us your vision. We’ll bring it to life!14701 SAN PEDRO, SAN ANTONIO T X 78232 - 210 .499 .1212 • WWW.DENNISJEWELRY.C OM

The Dennis Family has provided San Antonio and its surrounding communitieswith legendary customer service and craftsmanship since 1936.

DENNIS JEWELRY CO.

• Certified Diamonds & Pearl Restringing• Diamonds, Gold, Gems, Pearls & Platinum Specialist• Full Service Repairs of Jewelry & Watches• GIA Insurance Appraisals• Custom Manufacturing and CAD Design

PERFORMEDIN- HOUSE,

by ourMASTER

JEWELERS

Exceptional Service

6 MAY 9 - JUNE 13, 2016

MILITARY HIGHWAY &WURZBACH PARKWAYMYRONSPRIME.COM | 210-493-3031

ProudlyServing Prime

50% OFF1 Entrée

1 Coupon per table.Least expensive meal will be discounted.

Expires 6/15/2016Not valid with any other promotional offers.

San Antonio Location Only.

Best Service - Best Food...Come Taste The Difference!

Family & Friends - GraduationCelebrations of Any Kind!Come See Why Myron’s is the

Best for All Occasions!

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.

Ready. Set.

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

Oh, The Places You Should Go

Now HiringJoin a fantastic culture with greatgrowth opportunities

Interested candidates should send a cover letter and resume to:kgarza@salocallowdown.com • 210-338-8842

• Competitive Salary• Commissions• Bonuses• Paid Vacation• Paid Insurance

Media Sales Representatives

/localcommunitynewsCareers With LOCAL

ResponsibilitiesServicing and growing accounts within an assignedgeographic territory within San Antonio along withcommunity involvement. No Experience Necessary

7SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM

OUR GUIDE

TO YOUR MONTH

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

HAPPENING LOCAL

H A P P E N I N G K E Y

ART EVENTFITNESS OUTDOOR MUSIC FOOD

HAPPENING continues on pg. 08

DO YOU HAVE A LITTLE EXPLORER? Most Wednesdays from 10-11

a.m. the Cibolo Nature Center & Farm’s visitor center, 140 City Park Road in Boerne, hosts preschoolers to explore the outdoors and listen to stories. For more, call 830-249-4616 or contact Stephanie Colvard at stephanie@cibolo.org.

SNAKES ALIVE The Cibolo Nature Center & Farm’s auditorium, 140 City Park

Road in Boerne, is the site from 6-8 p.m. for a snake presentation. Expert Dave Barker will deliver a lecture on the varieties found in Texas. Cost is $5 per person. For more, call 830-331-8464 or contact Ben Eldredge at ben@cibolo.org.

SNAP! Photo SA, a camera club for all levels, meets at the Dominion Country

Club, 1 Dominion Drive, on the second Thursday of every month from 6:30-8 p.m. Guest speakers will make presentations. Cost is $10 at the door. RSVP not required, although helpful. For more, visit http://www.meetup.com/photosa or call Jim Landers at 681-8552.

BUTTERFLIES ARE FREEThe Monarch butterfly will be the subject of a training

session at the Cibolo Nature Center & Farm’s auditorium, 140 City Park Road in Boerne, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Experts Kip Kiphart and Cathy Downs will guide workshop participants. Cost is a suggested

MAY 11, 25 & JUNE 1, 8

MAY12

MAY13

MAY 12 & JUNE 9

2520 Broadway4775 Hamilton Wolfe, Bldg 2

Call Today 210-614-3600www.FocalPointVision.com

• Cataract Surgery • Corneal Specialist• Lasik/PRK • Visian ICL

Maverick|Lehmann|Burkhart|SanMartin

See Your Next Adventure...More Clearly!!!

BeyondLasikFocal Point Vision

8 MAY 9 - JUNE 13, 2016

DO YOU HAVEDRY SKIN?

Eczema? Psoriasis?Rosacea?

ARE YOUPRE-DIABETIC?Do you want to safelylose weight?

Let me show you how your life can improve byusing proven products that are reasonably priced.g p p

Call210-473-8010 to fififinddd out more…

Do you use vitamins,but still feel tired and achyyy all the time?

THERE ARE PATENTED PRODUCTSMADE IN AMERICA THAT CAN HELP!

Stahmann Square28720 Interstate 10 Suite 600

Boerne, TX 78006

Bella SaludMASSAGE

Save $20 on a1 hr. massage.

*regular price $60

bellasaludmassage.com 830 688 3708

SSPPRRIINNGGSSAAVVIINNGGSS!!Did you now hatt proper care and

pruning off your reescan help increase heir li e and

eep your home sa e rom damage?Call he xper s att

Tea ue’ss Tree Serviceor a R EE s ima e.

TEAGUE’S TREE SERVICE210-658-4765vv rr 1155 YY aa ss iinn BBuussiinn ss!! AA NNaa ee YYoouu aann uu ..aallll oorr aa ,, NNoo OObblliigg iioonn ii ..

20% OFF!GUE’S TREE SERVICE

Call the friendly professionals atTeague’s Tree Service and

receive 20% off your tree service.Offer Expires June 30, 2016

Call 210-658-4765.

••• Demossing• Hauling• Stump Grinding• Lot Clearing• Lot Shredding• 24 Hour Emergency Service• Licensed and Insured

SSSD

20TEAGTrimming

RemovalD i

$20 donation. For more, call 830-331-8464 or contact Ben Eldredge at ben@cibolo.org.

MARKETPLACE DEALSLocated in the heart of Boerne’s historical district

on Main Plaza, 100 N. Main St., Boerne Market Days is a monthly two-day event, Saturdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Enjoy the outdoor setting and browse the wares of vendors, artists and craftsmen, while listening to Texas homegrown music. For more, call 844-8193 or visit www.boernemarketdays.com.

ART: IT’S MORE THAN A NAMEOn the second Saturday of the month, stroll Boerne’s streets

or take the bus from 5-8 p.m. and enjoy an art experience. During “Second Saturday Art and Wine,” galleries are free and open to the public. Artwork from local dealers can be viewed, as beverages and hors d’oeuvres are consumed. For more, visit www.secondsaturdayartandwine.com or call 830-833-0621.

GARDEN GOURMET Inspiration Garden, located on Herff Farm, 33 Herff Road in Boerne,

will be the site from 10:30-11:30 a.m. for a presentation from expert Cynthia Brown on preparing food straight from the backyard. Cost is free; $5 donation suggested. For more, call 830-331-8464 or contact Ben Eldredge at ben@cibolo.org.

BOERNE SPRING CLEANINGTake advantage of bulk pickup. The city will collect waste

placed on curbs, once residents register. Call the Utility Customer Service Office at 249-9511 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Deadline is May 13. For a list of acceptable items and more, visit www.ci.boerne.tx.us.

BISD TRUSTEES The Boerne Independent School District board regularly meets on

the third Monday of the month in the Administration Building, 123 W. Johns Road. A closed session begins at 5 p.m.; an open-to-the-public forum is 6:30 p.m. For more, call 830-357-2000.

FOOLING WITH MOTHER NATURE On the third Wednesday of the month,

Mother Nature makes a special appearance to preschoolers at the Cibolo Nature Center

HAPPENING continues from pg. 07

MAY 14& JUNE 11

MAY16-20

MAY16

MAY18

HAPPENING continues on pg. 09

MAY 14-15 & JUNE 11-12

MAY 14 & JUNE 11

WE’RE GROWING!Make a difference in your community

SALES ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

send your resume to Ad Director, Jaselle Luna at:jluna@localcommunitynews.com

Base Salary • Upcapped CommissionBenefits & Paid Time Off

Join our team of account executives who are passionateabout helping & growing businesses.

make sureto us on

facebook.com/salocalcommunitynews

we are on

instagram.com/localcommunitynews

9SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM “Keeping You Cool & Saving You Energy

One Window at a Time”

If Heat, Glare and High Energy Bills are a problem,Solar shades Co. may have a solution that is right for you.

By Creating a Radiant Barrier - Get relief with Solar window Screens,Solar window Tinting, Patio Roller Shades, Window Blinds, InteriorRoller Shades, including Motorized Remote screening systems.

Take Control of Your Energy Bills!

Start Conserving Now!210-657-9931

www.SolarShadesSA.com

SOLARSHADESIS THE

SOLUTION

The Catholic and Marianist University | www.stmarytx.edu

St. Mary’s has been recognized by the Brookings Institution and Payscale.com for preparing our graduates for career success.

ACADEMIC

RUNS DEEPEXCELLENCE

& Farm’s visitor center, 140 City Park Road in Boerne, from 10-11 a.m. The topic will be pollination. Cost is $5 per family. For more, call 830-249-4616 or contact Stephanie Colvard at stephanie@cibolo.org.

CAN WE TALK? The third Thursday of each month, the second floor conference

room at the Heath Public Library, 451 N. Main St. in Boerne, hosts a 10 a.m. “Soul Salon” to bring folks together for discussions in an informative and respectful manner. A library volunteer leads the program. Coffee is provided. For more, visit www.ci.boerne.tx.us.

FAIR OAKS RANCH CITY COUNCIL Regular meetings begin 7 p.m. on

the third Thursday of every month, 7286 Dietz Elkhorn Road. To verify dates and times, call 698-0900.

HOT ROD NIGHTS Soda Pops Patio Grill & Bar, 103 N. Main St. in Boerne, hosts Hot

Rod Nights starting at 6:30 p.m. Show off your wheels, make new friends, and enjoy live music (Ricky Adams Band,

May 21); (Derringer Band, June 4). For more, visit www.sodapopsboerne.com.

MOONDANCE CONCERT SERIESEnjoy live music, dancing, eats and fun at the Cibolo

Nature Center’s stage, 140 City Park Road in Boerne. Bring lawn chairs, blankets, drinks and even friendly dogs on leashes. Food trucks ready to serve. Gates open at 7 p.m.; music starts at 7:30 p.m. for the monthly concert series, April through September, supporting CNC&F nature education and outreach programs. Performing this month is Jazz Blues and Diamonds. Cost is $7.50 for CNC&F members, $10 for nonmembers. Seniors pay $5; kids 12 and under admitted free. For more, contact Jennifer Wyle at Jennifer@cibolo.org or call 830-249-4616.

CONSERVATION SHOW & TELL“Harvesting Rainwater & Solar Energy” is a presentation by

engineer John Kight. The discussion is 9 a.m. to noon at the Cibolo Nature Center’s auditorium, 140 City Park Road in Boerne, and the Kight home. Pre-registration is required for the event, costing $25 for CNC&F members, $35 for nonmembers.

HAPPENING continues from pg. 08

MAY19

MAY20

MAY21

MAY21

HAPPENING continues on pg. 16

MAY 21 & JUNE 4

10 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

1919 Lockhill-Selma Suite 101

C A L L

210-843-2995 O R V I S I T

WELLFIT-SA.COM

$ 1 5 0 V A L U EI N - S T U D I O O R I N - H O M E

"Realize your true fitness potential today"

Dr. Seth H. FritcherDr. Mark Wengrovitz

FIRST. ONLY. BEST.YOUR CHOICE for

Leg Circulation Problems

(210) 614-7414 | pvasatx.com

DOC TORS OF ARTERIES & VEINS

+ Minimally Invasive Procedures+ Peripheral Arterial Disease+ Amputation Prevention+ Poor Circulation+ Aneurysms

SPECIALIZING IN:

Vascular specialists work in partnership with your doctor in managing problems involving your arteries and veins.

124 E. Bandera Rd, Suite 301 | Boerne, TX 78006

+ Carotid Artery Disease+ Varicose Veins & Spider Veins + Non-healing Ulcers+ Dialysis Access

10am-9pm MON-SATClosed on SUNDAY

830-981-5212 29202 Ralph Fair Rd, Fair Oaks Ranch, TX 78015

Your local one stop shop for spirits, wine and craft beer.

Ralph

FairRd.Fa

ir Oaks Pkwy

Dietz Elkhorn Rd

Fair Oaks Ranch

I-10

BRAND LIQUORS

located only3 mins frominterstate 10

1. IFLY SAN ANTONIO, 15915 Interstate 10 West, is an indoor skydiving arena that makes the dream of flying a reality for customers. Hours are 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, and 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday. For more, call 762-4359, or visit www.iflyworld.com or facebook.com/iFLYSanAntonio. (See story on page 17)

2. RUTH’S CHRIS LA CANTERA AT THE EILAN, 17803 La Cantera Terrace, Building 8, Suite 8110, advises customers: “If it doesn’t sizzle, send it back” as part of a tradition of carefully selected beef dishes. A new menu debuted April 25 featuring Crab Stack, Lobster Mac & Cheese and The Tomahawk, a 40-ounce Midwestern corn-fed, bone-in rib-eye steak. This is the third Ruth’s Chris, part of a national chain, in San Antonio. Lunch hours are 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday through Friday; dinner, 4:30-10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 4:30-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and 4:30-9 p.m. Sunday, with brunch 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. For more, call 538-8792 or visit http://www.ruthschris.com/restaurant-locations/san-antonio-la-cantera. (See story on page 18)

3. UNI’KO JAPANESE HOUSE, 17803 La Cantera Terrace, Suite 1101, is “a Japanese dream,” according to a spokesman. Uni’ko offers a variety of appetizing food with a modern twist, including dishes such as teppanyaki, sashimi and sushi. Hours are 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday, noon to 11 p.m. Saturday, and noon to 9 p.m. Sunday. For more, call 239-6610 or visit unikojapanesehouse.com.

4. ISA’S CLASSIC CUTS, 25306 Interstate 10 West, has been in business 24 years, but moved to a remodeled space next to the old location. The shop specializes in salon services for both sexes, delivering the latest styles, cuts and colors, plus complimentary coffee and Wi-Fi, too. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. For more, call 698-1386.

IN OTHER NEWSMORE THAN 250 FULL- AND PART-TIME JOBS HAVE BEEN CREATED IN THE LEON SPRINGS area with the April 20 opening of a Walmart Supercenter at 24403 Interstate 10 West, according to company officials. The 163,000-square-foot store brings a large assortment of fresh groceries and general merchandise “at everyday low prices,” according to a release. “Customers will also enjoy convenient on-site services such as a full pharmacy and a free store pickup service providing an easy way to shop millions of products on Walmart.com.” Hours are 6 a.m. to midnight daily. According to store manager Bill Hirshberg, “Many of our new neighbors are telling us how excited they are for this store to open so they will have convenient access to the name brands they know and trust. We are honored to serve the Leon Springs community.” Hirshberg began his Walmart career in 1991 as an hourly cashier in San Antonio. Some organizations participating in the opening were TMI – The Episcopal School of Texas, Leon Springs Elementary School, Ellison Elementary School, the North San Antonio Chamber of Commerce, the San Antonio Chamber of Commerce, Leon Springs

LOWDOWN continues on pg. 11

11SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM

Presbyterian Church and the Leon Springs Business Association. Performers included Tejano singer Raulito Navaira, mariachis and recording artist Isabel Marie Sanchez of “The Voice.” The store’s Facebook page is www.facebook.com/walmart3107.

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.

SENIOR ERIC GIBBONS AT TMI - THE EPISCOPAL SCHOOL OF TEXAS recently earned the President’s Volunteer Service Award recognizing “Americans of all ages who have volunteered significant amounts of their time to serve their communities and their country,” according to the school’s website. The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards program, on behalf of President Barack Obama, granted the recognition.

FAIR OAKS RANCH MAYOR CHERYL

LANDMAN declared May 1-7 “Municipal Clerk Week.” According to a proclamation, “The office of municipal clerk is a time-honored and vital part of local government existing throughout the world as the oldest among public servants and provides the professional link between citizens and their governments.”

A RECENT BLOG BY THE TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION indicates traffic studies are trying to determine the causes of congestion around Camp Bullis, UTSA Boulevard, La Cantera Parkway and Fair Oaks Ranch Parkway, but the short answer is: “A rapid increase in development and population along the (Interstate 10) corridor.” The state highway department has a project underway to convert frontage roads between Dominion Drive and Boerne Stage Road, which includes some ramp rearrangements “that will help traffic flow once the project is done later this summer,” according to the blog post. However, traffic planners warn construction won’t fix everything, including “pinch points” at Loop 1604 and at Camp Bullis. An initiative on the drawing board for next year, which might help, is expanding I-10 between La Cantera Parkway and Ralph Fair (Road), officials said.

LOWDOWN continues from pg. 10

NOW is the time for aPOOL MAKEOVER!

Specializing InPool Interiorsand Pool AreaRenovations

CALL FOR AFREE ESTIMATE

Swimming PoolMakeovers - Interior:

• Crack & Leak Repairs• Tile Cleaning & Repair• Re-Plaster• Marine Coatings for FiberglassPools & Spas (custom faux look)

10%OFFExpires 5/15/16

TOTALCONCRETESOLUTIONS

210-584-4691www.decoconcretesa.com

Since 2001

Swimming Pool Decks• New Removal & Resurfacing• Specialty Concrete CrackRepairs Vertical and Horizontal

• Decorative Concrete Overlaysand Overlay Restoration

• Concrete Scoring, Staining,& Sealing

• Flagstone Sealing• Anti-Slip & Non Skid Coatingsover most any surface: tile,marble, painted surfaces, bathtubs and more. Dries Clear.

BEFORE

AFTER

12 MAY 9 - JUNE 13, 2016

Servvvr ing Leon Springs, Dominion, Fair Oaks and Boerne Communities

Evening Appointments: Monday, Tuesday and WednesdayComplimentary Second Opinion

Patient Loyalty Discounts for patients without insurance

In-Network with most Dental PPO Insurances

Dental ImplantsInvisalign • Snore?

$1299Loose Dentures?Denture Implants

$99Cleaning, Examand X-Rays

COMPLIMENTARYImplant consultationincluding 3D cone beamimaging

www.DominionRidgeDentistry.com

Oral-Systemic HealthDental Sleep Medicine

210-910-6904In The Dominion Ridge Shopping Center

22211 W IH 10, Suite 1103San Antonio, TX 78257

FAIR OAKS continues from pg. 01

Mayor Cheryl Landman estimates there will be at least an 18-month to two-year period before the electorate sees a home-rule charter proposal on the ballot, but feels it’s worth the wait.

“It’s government for the citizens, by the citizens, with the citizens,” she said.

The City Council is seeking volunteers to serve on the Fair Oaks Ranch Charter Commission, setting the stage for eventually drafting a home-rule agreement that has to be approved by voters.

Texas cities with populations of more than 5,000 can initiate steps to

create a home-rule charter, which allows municipalities a greater control over growth – a major issue in Fair Oaks Ranch.

Towns without a home-rule charter exist under general law, or what the Legislature authorizes in Austin.

Under home rule, residents can decide what form of municipal government they want, such as mayor-council or council-manager. They also dictate the size of the government body, term limits for aldermen, the balance of power for elected leaders and city administrators, whether the mayor is elected or chosen from council members, and several other matters.

As of 2010, 19 out of 309 eligible Texas towns hadn’t gone to home rule.

Also, general-law cities have limited ability to control growth. Fair Oaks Ranch can’t annex land in its extraterritorial jurisdiction without a landowner request. The ETJ is unincorporated land within five miles of city limits, and not within the city limits or ETJ of another vicinity.

A home-rule charter can be written to enable a town to annex land in its ETJ without waiting for a petition from landowners.

The Texas Constitution was amended in 1912 to allow home-rule charters.

A general-law city can only take actions specifically allowed by state statutes. Texas’ Local Government Code

– stipulating an elected mayor and five voter-approved aldermen – currently mandates the form of community management for Fair Oaks Ranch.

Alderman Garry Manitzas thinks the time is right for the city to adopt home rule.

“Basically, the citizens have a whole lot more flexibility under a home-rule charter than they do under a general-law charter,” Manitzas said.

Landman also believes now is the moment to opt for home rule so residents get a greater voice at City Hall.

“We’ve matured I think to that point. With home rule, it’s not the Texas government telling the city what their authority will be. It’s now the citizens telling the city what their authority will be,” Landman said.

Residents in communities with home rule have three important powers lacking in general-law cities:n Initiative – A petition requiring a city council to consider a specific ordinance or resolution after initially refusing.

It forces the council to vote to accept the formal request or call an election allowing residents to determine the issue. The council can’t reject the petition.n Referendum – This works like the initiative petition, only in reverse. It can be used to repeal an ordinance or resolution the council passed, but unpopular with residents. The council must either withdraw the ruling or leave it to a decision by voters.n Recall – If residents don’t like what the mayor and council are doing, they can ask them to resign or face a recall election.

“I think it’s good for the citizens of Fair Oaks Ranch to have these additional choices regardless of anything else,” Manitzas said.

Getting a home-rule agreement starts with forming a residents committee to write a new city charter and then getting it on the ballot to gauge voters’ sentiments.

The city attorney will guide the charter commission, where the mayor and aldermen aren’t allowed to participate.

City is seeking volunteers for charter commissionby LUCILLE SIMS THOMAS

FAIR OAKS RANCH — Officials are moving forward on attaining home rule for the

city, which gives residents more say in local government operations.

WITH HOME RULE, IT’S NOT THE TEXAS GOVERNMENT TELLING THE CITY WHAT THEIR AUTHORITY WILL BE.

CHERYL LANDMAN, FAIR OAKS RANCH MAYOR

Our Clinic has Eight Adult & Three Pediatric Board Certified Endocrinologists on Staff

WE TREAT• Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus• Thyroid Disorders• Growth and Pubertal Disorders• Other Endocrine Disorders

OTHER ON SITE SERVICESOTHER ON SITE SERVICES• Walk-in Clinic • Certified Diabetes Educators• Ultrasound • In-House Laboratory• DEXA (Bone Density) • Weight LossACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

(210) 614-8612OPEN MONDAY - FRIDAY

7:30 AM TO 5:30 PMPediatric Clinic Also Open

9:00 AM TO 2:00 PMSATURDAYS

www.DGDClinic.comSan Antonio, TX 78229

5107 Medical Drive

13SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM

Annoyed by outdoor pests? Fight Back! Protect your family and pets from the nuisance and dangers of mosquitoes. Get rid of them with Mosquito Squad, the original and most trusted mosquito eliminator for over 10 years.

Call The Squad today

210-871-1266or visit MosquitoSquad.comFirst time customers only. Limit one coupon per property.

Not valid with other offers.

Call for a free, no obligation estimate. We can also eliminate ticks and fleas.

No mosquitoes here.

SEASONAL MOSQUITO CONTROL

$50 OFF

SPECIAL EVENT TREATMENT

$25 OFF

Mosquito Protection Specials

LEON SPRINGS continues from pg. 01

by EDMOND ORTIZ

Over time, a lack of money has meant there's been little to celebrate, but LSBA hopes to continue fostering awareness among community members regarding the importance of local history.

“Several years back, I led an effort to get grant funds for Leon Springs area historical preservation projects,” said Mike Taylor, LSBA co-chairman. “There were federal and state programs that I applied for. We did not win any of the grants.”

Taylor, president of the local marketing company Connect Communications, said life and work took priority in following years and the organization was not able to secure grant funds for preservation.

Years ago, the idea was for the business association to focus on helping maintain or save pre-1900s properties; there are many in the area.

According to news accounts in 2010, the San Antonio Conservation Society served as a resource in identifying those places. The region started as a stagecoach stop between Boerne and San Antonio, and settlers included Hispanics, Germans, Prussians and Poles.

Although the business association has not been able to obtain the desired financial aid, the group’s work persists.

“The grants focused mainly on historic buildings in the area. Along with other groups, LSBA wishes to see that these structures remain intact. We also envision incorporating them into the landscape for educational purposes,” Taylor said.

The association has developed a Plan B to educate residents about the region’s history.

“A plinth was dedicated recognizing the Scenic Loop-Boerne Stage Corridor. It stands across from Scenic Loop Cafe (& Bar),” said

LSBA works with different preservation organizations

About six years ago, the Leon Springs Business Association began an effort

to preserve historical properties in the area, with some fundraising help.

LEON SPRINGS continues on pg. 14

Assisted Living and Memory Careconveniently located in your community

CALL (210)492-4040 TODAY TO SCHEDULEYOUR PRIVATE TOUR3220 NORTH LOOP 1604WEST • SHAVANO PARK,TX 78231

WWW.SHAVANOPARKSENIORLIVING.COM

Introducing our newVibrant Life program!

To optimize healthand well-being by

passionately promotingaVibrant Life filled

with joyful experiences,meaningful endeavors,

and abundantopportunities to connectwith family, friends andthe local community.

14 MAY 9 - JUNE 13, 2016

Owner Builder NetworkCan Help You:Design - Build - Finance

830-755-8808www.OwnerBuilderNetwork.com28731 IH 10W Boerne, TX 78006

Start BuildingYour CustomDream HomeEliminateee TTThhhe BuilderBe IIInnn control and $aveTTThousands!!!

Taylor. “The Old Spanish Trail auto highway is having a centennial celebration that we plan to be part of. Signage along the route in Leon Springs is one small way we will participate.”

Meantime, LSBA and individual area businesses support the development of a trail and park along Boerne Stage Road, which has seen a surge in residential and commercial development in the last few years. The road itself near Interstate 10 West has been improved and expanded.

Taylor added the trailway-park project is something his organization “will continue to promote as San Antonio grows in that direction, eventually connecting our trailway park with the expansive San Antonio corridors.”

According to Taylor, the business association still communicates with, and supports, a variety of local organizations and agencies for preservation and improvement, including the Scenic Loop-Boerne Stage Alliance, Old Spanish Trail Centennial, Leon Springs Trail Foundation, the city’s Office of Historic Preservation, Greater Edwards Aquifer Alliance and the Texas Historical Commission.

LSBA also collaborates with many political and civic bodies such as City Council District 8, state House of Representatives District 122,

LEON SPRINGS continues from pg. 13

the Bexar County Sheriff ’s Office and the Leon Springs Volunteer Fire Department.

For more about the business association, visit http://www.leonspringstx.com.

THE GRANTS FOCUSED MAINLY ON HISTORIC BUILDINGS IN THE AREA ... WE ALSO ENVISION INCORPORATING THEM INTO THE LANDSCAPE FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES.

MIKE TAYLOR, LSBA CO-CHAIRMAN

A plinth recognizing the Scenic Loop-Boerne Stage Corridor stands across from Scenic Loop Cafe & Bar, a nod to Leon Springs' role in history. The Leon Springs Business Association wants to encourage more preservation efforts; additional funding would help. Photo by Edmond Ortiz

Make 2016 Your Year

NOW HIRINGMedia Sales RepppresentativesJoin a culture with vision and fantasticgrowth opportunities

Benefits• Competitive Salaryyy• Commissions• Bonuses• Paid Vacation• Paid Insurance

Perks• Work in your community• Say goodbye to your cccube and hello to youroffice

Send cover letter and resume to:kgarza@localcommunitynews.com -210-338-8842

Responsibilities:Service and grow accounts within aaan assigned geographicterritory within San Antonio along wwwith community involvement.

Budget

SaveMoney

PayBills

Takea Trip

FIND

NEWJOB

15SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM

Video Surveillance • Controlled Access • 24 hours a day

Serving San Antonio & the Hill Country Area with Boat and RV Storage

Boat & RV StorageMention this Ad get 1st Month FREE*

* New clients only; 3 months minimum.

29 Scenic Loop Rd., Boerne, TX 78006830-386-3005 • BoerneBoatandRVStorage.com

HOURS: Monday - Friday 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

FUNDRAISING continues from pg. 01 For more than 30 years, the BVFD has been holding its yearly cookout to supplement funds from the city and Kendall County.

Proceeds from the fish fries help defray some of the costs associated with acquiring new apparatuses; this year, firefighters are looking at a $150,000 brush truck.

“A large portion of (the) department is all-volunteer and a lot of our fundraising comes from events like this,” said Firefighter Paul Durran, a fish-fry co-organizer. “We do a lot of fundraising ourselves. It’s a good group of guys out here. Everyone watches

Event has enjoyed a 30-year historyby MIRANDA KOERNER

BOERNE — Annual fish-fry fundraisers for the Boerne Volunteer Fire

Department go a long way towards obtaining new firefighting equipment, among other things, officials say. FUNDRAISING continues on pg. 16

Fundraisers such as a May 7 annual fish fry help the Bulverde Volunteer Fire Department update equipment and training. Pictured is the Donald L. Gourley Firehouse No.1. Photo by Rudy B. Ornelas

e-Pro, REALTOR®

24200 IH-10 West, Ste. 101 San Antonio, Texas 78257

C (210) 602-6999 O (210) 698-4700 x 1716

jsantrock@phyllisbrowning.comwww.phyllisbrowning.com

Jennifer Santrock

ServicesEvaluation & TreatmentPediatrics and AdultsReading SupportSocial GroupsEvening Appointments

Areas of ConcernSpeech or Language DelaysArticulationStuttering • Processing • PragmaticsPediatric Feeding IssuesAccent Reduction

Communication is for life...

225 E. Sonterra Blvd, Suite 120San Antonio, TX 78258

210-495-9944stoneoakspeech.com

16 MAY 9 - JUNE 13, 2016

each other’s back and is here because they want to help the community.”

For Fire Chief Doug Meckel, the fundraiser shows the community what firefighters do and adds money to the coffers for much-needed equipment. Along with a new brush truck, the BVFD needs to replace a 16-year-old rescue vehicle costing $600,000 and an aging pumper for an equally large sum.

“People don’t realize (our truck) is so old because it still looks good, but it gets hard and expensive to find parts for an almost 20-year-old truck,” Meckel said.

Meckel said while the Boerne coverage area is still 200 square miles, the BVFD has been getting an increase in medical calls, structure fires and traffic incidents. Meanwhile, springtime flooding can be problematic.

“Anytime it rains like it does, it makes the grass grow and (look) pretty, but that’s fuel for grass fires in summer and winter,” Meckel said. “All we can do is be prepared and get the best training and equipment we can.”

Durran noted many folks don’t realize the seriousness of such infernos.

“With so many grass fires, we need a new brush truck,” Durran said. “With the wind and the hills up here, it can

be hard to fight. A (new) brush truck will help with that. We’ve done a lot of different stuff with this event and tried to be more community minded, like joining the Boerne Chamber of Commerce and getting sponsored tables. Hopefully, people like it, and it makes a difference.”

Firefighter Toby Vicknair said the continued participation by both the department and the neighborhood aid with funding efforts.

“We have a wide range of guys who have been here as long as 30 years or one or two years, with paid and volunteer,” he said.

“This year’s fish fry was planned for May 7.For more about the BVFD, call 830-249-

3644.

FUNDRAISING continues from pg. 15 HAPPENING continues from pg. 09

For more, call 830-331-8464 or contact Ben Eldredge at ben@cibolo.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.

ROLL ‘EM Normally on the last Friday of the month, Boerne presents “Movies

in the Park.” May’s featured free film at 100 N. Main St. is “Surf ’s Up.” Activities begin at 6:30 p.m.; movie starts after dark. Come out early to grab a good spot and a snack. For more in this celluloid series, call 830-249-9511 or visit http://www.ci.boerne.tx.us/626/Summer-Scene.

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.

SCHOOL’S OUT – MEMORIAL DAY & SUMMER BREAKCampuses in the Boerne

and Northside independent school districts will be closed for the holiday May 30; the school year ends June 2.

CLASS OF 2016 HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION Boerne Independent School

District’s commencement ceremonies take place 8 p.m. June 3 and 10 a.m. June 4 for Champion High School and Boerne High School, respectively, at BISD Stadium, 1 Greyhound Lane. In Northside ISD, the Alamodome, 100 Montana Street, will host Clark High School’s graduation 8 a.m. June 8.

GO FISH Enter a free, child/adult team-fishing tournament at Boerne City Lake Park,

1 City Lake Road, from 9-11 a.m. No license necessary. Check-in is 7:30 a.m. Equipment is available on a first-come, first-served basis. For more including tourney rules, visit www.ci.boerne.tx.us.

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

MAY24

MAY27

MAY30

JUNE3, 4 & 8

JUNE4

MAY28

Boerne Volunteer Fire Department Firefighter Toby Vicknair was a co-chairman for a May 7 fundraiser. He is with Brush 43, a carefully maintained but old fire truck that officials say needs to be replaced. Photo by Rudy B. Ornelas

BP160828

17907 IH-10 WESTSAN ANTONIO, TX 78257

(210) 253-8700

LOCATED INSIDE

HOURS OF OPERATIONMONDAY–SATURDAY 11AM–9PM

SUNDAY 11AM–7PM

NOT ONLY GREAT SEAFOOD, BUT STEAKS, PASTA,

ROTISSERIE CHICKEN, SALADS, AND SANDWICHES.

Dental HomeFrom Birth to Teens

Welcome Medically Compromised ChildrenAffiliated with Methodist Children’s Hospital

Sheila Hernandez, DMD, PCPPediatric Dentist210.694.27008202 N. Loop 1604W. Ste. 104San Antonio, TX 78249www.txkidds.com • www.facebook.com/txkidds

Calling All Parents:Keeping those mouths sugar monster-free is as easy as ABC! Share a photo of your childflashing the camera a big, shiny smile and it will be featured in our office and Facebook

(no names will be displayed).

17SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM

Oh, The Places You Should Go

Now HiringJoin a fantastic culture with greatgrowth opportunities

Interested candidates should send a cover letter and resume to:kgarza@salocallowdown.com • 210-338-8842

• Competitive Salary• Commissions• Bonuses• Paid Vacation• Paid Insurance

Media Sales Representatives

/localcommunitynewsCareers With LOCAL

ResponsibilitiesServicing and growing accounts within an assignedgeographic territory within San Antonio along withcommunity involvement. No Experience Necessary

PRESENT THIS AD AND RECEIVE

BAMBOOSHEETSOff50$

La Cantera Mall (next to Nordstrom)15900 La Cantera Pkwy San Antonio, TX 78256

P. 210.641.1233

SOFT - Twice as soft as cottonCOOL - 3 degrees cooler than cotton

CLEAN - Repels odors and allergiesGREEN - Most renewable resource on the Planet

BUY LOCALLearn more about newest purveyors of goods and services in your area

Retailer iFly San Antonio is making the dream of flight a reality by creating free-fall conditions, similar to skydiving, inside a vertical wind tunnel.

IFly has been delivering flights of fancy turned reality since 1998, and opened at 15915 Interstate 10 West near Loop 1604. This is its 21st location countrywide.

“We’ve talked to folks that have skydived and jumped out of a plane and they come in the tunnel and they say the experience is almost exactly the same.,” said Chris Miller, iFly’s marketing director. “It’s really

a great experience for people who really would never want to skydive, but would love to experience human-body flight.”

Prices start at $69.95. Customers are guaranteed equipment rental, including flight suit, goggles and helmet; instructions from certified staff; and the ability to glide like a bird for about an hour.

“We think the San Antonio people are going to love what we do,” Miller said.

Instructors at iFly have trained students as young as 3; there’s no age limit. However, staffers suggest folks with chronic shoulder, back or neck problems consult with a doctor beforehand.

“Safety is the No. 1 priority,” Miller said. “We have highly trained, certified, supplied instructors that prepare you before you go in and are with you throughout the entire time.”

Before booking an appointment, Miller

recommends patrons visit the company website or investigate the tunnel in person.

Billed as a unique venue, iFly also has a conference room and large party area for groups of all sizes.

Hours are 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, and 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday.

Free-fall into iFly for the dream of soaringby ALEJANDRA CASAS

A different kind of recreational outlet that just debuted is taking

customers to new heights.

IFLY SAN ANTONIO15915 Interstate 10 West

For more, call 762-4359 or visit www.iflyworld.com

or facebook.com/iFlySanAntonio

ABOVE: At iFly San Antonio, where visitors soar like a bird in a wind tunnel, flight instructor Alissa Davidson demonstrates how to move around. BOTTOM: Davidson is joined by fellow flight instructor Josh Cochran. Photos by Alejandra Casas

18 MAY 9 - JUNE 13, 2016

OFFICE LUNCHEON

BIRTHDAY PARTY

COCKTAIL PARTY

BRIDAL SHOWER

REHEARSAL DINNER

WEDDING RECEPTION

CALL MADISEN

LET OUR AWARD-WINNING CATERING TEAM TAKE CARE OF

YOUR NEXT EVENT!

210-342-2800 WWW.TIAGOSCABOGRILLE.COM

now open in the rim!

put someyumm inyour day!

free froyo!up to 8oz.*one per ad. cannot be

combined with any other offer.

behind bass pro shops17619 la cantera pkwy, bldg 2, ste 209(210) 549-0013

menchie’s at the rim menchie’s at the rim

menchies.com

28604 IH 10West, #5Boerne,TX 78006830-755-7700

www.paulsgourmetpopcorn.com

FAIR OAKSRANCH CENTER

Present this adfor one FREEMini Cheddar.

Expires 6/3/16

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

Started in 1965 by Ruth Fertel in New Orleans, the chain now has 140 establishments worldwide. The latest Alamo City installment recently opened as Ruth’s Chris La Cantera at the Eilan, 17803 La Cantera Terrace, Building 8, Suite 8110.

Daniel Farias, general manager, said the staff’s ready to serve the sizzle and the steak.

“I am thrilled to be part of such an incredible brand and feel that all the goals we have in place for the La Cantera Terrace location are aligned with growth and demand of the community at La Cantera,” Farias said.

Already known for its beef, the restaurant unveiled a new menu April 25; it’s biggest change in 30 years.

Selections include Crab Stack, colossal blue crab peaks atop avocado and mango; Lobster Mac & Cheese; a new specialty steak, The Tomahawk — 40 ounces of Midwestern corn-fed, bone-in rib-eye; a bone-in filet; and a bone-in New York Strip.

Grilled asparagus and cremini mushrooms are additions; desserts include white-chocolate bread pudding.

The first area Ruth’s Chris on Jones Maltsberger Road at the Concord Plaza opened in the early 1990s. The second moved from near St. Paul Square east of downtown to the River Walk two years ago.

Franchisee Lana Duke and her son, David, own the Alamo City

Getting the sizzle and the steak at Ruth’s Chrisby OLIVIER J. BOURGOIN

The motto for Ruth’s Chris steak house restaurants from New York to Hong Kong

to the newest San Antonio locale is — “If it doesn’t sizzle, send it back!”

venues, plus a few others.“We’re excited to be part of the La

Cantera community in San Antonio,” the mother-son duo said in a press release. “This is such a beautiful area and it is expanding rapidly in both residential and business developments. Our new location and now our new menu is really us delivering on what our guests have been asking for.”

Lunch hours are 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday through Friday; dinner, 4:30-10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 4:30-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and 4:30-9 p.m. Sunday, with brunch 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

RUTH'S CHRIS LA CANTERA AT THE EILAN17803 La Cantera Terrace, Building 8, Suite 8110

For more, call 538-8792 or visit www.ruthschris.com/restaurant-locations/san-antonio-la-cantera

Steaks, veggies and even seafood are all offered at Ruth’s Chris La Cantera at the Eilan, 17803 La Cantera Terrace, Building 8, Suite 8110. This marks the third Ruth's Chris in San Antonio. Courtesy photos

19

Find

mor

e LO

CAL

deal

s on

line

at s

aloc

allo

wdo

wn.

com

LOCA

L D

EALSSALOCALLOWDOWN.COM

Park Hours:

Monday - Thursday10 am - 9 pm

Friday 10 am - 11 pmSaturday 9 am - 11 pmSunday 11 am - 8 pm

Dominion Ridge Shopping Center22211 IH 10W, Suite 1110San Antonio, Tx 78257Phone (210) 541-5105

Present this adto the cashier andget your 4 oz FREE*

FrozenYogurtdoes not include

toppings. *One

perad.Expires

June

15,2016

www.umixyogurt.com

NOWOPEN

Want to find out more about your neighborhood?

go to our Website for more neWs and great money saving deals WWW.salocalloWdoWn.com

Our services start with FREE Estimates!EVERY screen is custom made to order,

so you get that Perfect fit!

Benefits of Solar Window Screens Include:• Lower Utility Costs 30%-35%

• Blocks 80%-90% of the Sun’s Ray• Lifetime Warranty

• Blocks the Sun, not the View!

GET READY FOR THE SUMMER SUNSolar Screens are a PROVEN way to reduce your Electric Bill!

210-842-1915 • www.ComfortSunShades.com

COMFORT SUN SHADES

www.scuzzisitaliangrill.com

Scuzzis Italian Grill 4035 North Loop 1604 W. SA,TX 78257 • 210-493-8884

$5.00 OFFGIFT CERTIFICATE

(Towards the minimum purchase of $20.00 on Entrees only)Offer can only be used during Lunch hours dine-in only. Multiple certificates

will not be accepted. Expires June 30, 2016 * local zone 7

$10.00 OFFGIFT CERTIFICATE

(Towards the minimum purchase of $20.00 on Entrees only)Offer can only be used during Dinner hours dine-in only. Multiple certificates will

not be accepted. Expires June 30, 2016 * local zone 7

GlutenFree Menu

and 600 Calorie& Under

Entrees areAvailable

Huebner Oaks next to Chipotle11745 IH 10 West Ste. 400 • San Antonio, TX 78230

210-462-1705Ask about our Membership and

Grooming Party Packages

™

NowHiring!FROM THIS TO THIS

Cleaning & Sealing Patios and Decks for 28 years...Fences too!

www.deckandpatiocare.com Call 210.822.9147

SEALING WOOD, FLAGSTONE, & PEBBLESTONE

$60 OFF

Deck & Patio Care

*****E

CR

WS

S

Postal C

ustomer

Prsrt S

td U

S P

ostage Paid

Perm

it 6450 S

an Antonio TX

4204 GA

RD

EN

DA

LE ST

E. 201

SAN

AN

TON

IO, T

X 78229

CO

MM

UN

ITY

NE

WS