This month in Zone 6: Hardy Oak Roadway construction has been completed, which will relieve traffic congestion from Stone Oak Parkway to Knights Cross Drive, HOV lanes are nearing a reality for U.S. 281 and Interstate 10 as proponents seek to expand transit options while foes fear a limited option of driving choices, and NEISD created a partnership to help train future EMTS. If you missed it in your mailbox, read it online now!
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COMMUNITY NEWS STONE OAK ENCINO PARK FAR NORTH 78258 78259 78260 78261 FEB. 29 - MARCH 28, 2016 VOL. 2, ISSUE 10 LOCAL COMMENTARY SUSAN YERKES LOCAL LOWDOWN PG. 04 PG. 26 PG. 10 Extension from Stone Oak Parkway to Knights Cross Drive relieving traffic congestion Proponents seek to expand transit options; foes fear limited driver choices HARDY OAK ROADWAY COMPLETED HOV lanes nearing reality for U.S. 281, Interstate 10 DISTRICT PARTNERSHIP HELPS TRAIN FUTURE EMTS NEISD CAMPUS BOND PLANS ON THE DRAWING BOARD Offering a quick snapshot of new businesses, bars and restaurants, plus news updates PG.13 PG.14 Offering healthy drinks with a purpose at new outlet Twelth San Antonio location is a no-judgment zone for all exercisers Store says patrons can net great deals at sports outlet Family opens its second eatery on far North Side SMOOTHIE KING PLANET FITNESS WIN WELL TENNIS VIDA MIA EAT LOCAL BUY LOCAL PG.20 PG.22 LOCAL EDITORIAL PG. 06 School choice gives parents options to educate their children March is Women's History Month, and heroes are needed on the homefront BE WELL IN 2016 HEALTH & WELLNESS COSMETIC PROCEDURES INSIDE EXERCISE 101 WEIGHT LOSS Fountains of youth and beauty — PG 16 Even Pooh Bear gets it — PG 18 Health experts discuss effective strategies — PG 19 PG. 27 PG. 25 PG. 24
Transcript
COMMUNITY NEWS
STONE OAK ENCINO PARK FAR NORTH 78258 78259 78260 78261 FEB. 29 - MARCH 28, 2016VOL. 2, ISSUE 10
LOCAL COMMENTARY SUSAN YERKES
LOCAL LOWDOWN
PG. 04
PG. 26
PG. 10
Extension from Stone Oak Parkway to Knights Cross Drive relieving traffic congestion
Proponents seek to expand transit options; foes fear limited driver choices
HARDY OAK ROADWAY COMPLETED
HOV lanes nearing reality for U.S. 281, Interstate 10
DISTRICT PARTNERSHIP HELPS TRAIN FUTURE EMTSNEISD CAMPUS BOND PLANS ON THE DRAWING BOARD
Offering a quick snapshot of new businesses, bars and restaurants, plus news updates
PG.13
PG.14
Offering healthy drinks with a purpose at new outlet
Twelth San Antonio location is a no-judgment zone for all exercisers
Store says patrons can net great deals at sports outlet
Family opens its second eatery on far North Side
SMOOTHIE KING PLANET FITNESS
WIN WELL TENNISVIDA MIA
EAT LOCAL BUY LOCAL
PG.20
PG.22
LOCAL EDITORIALPG. 06School choice gives parents options to educate their children
March is Women's History Month, and heroes are needed on the homefront
BE WELLIN 2016
HEALTH & WELLNESS
COSMETIC PROCEDURES
INSIDE
EXERCISE 101
WEIGHT LOSS
Fountains of youth and beauty — PG 16
Even Pooh Bear gets it — PG 18
Health experts discuss effective strategies — PG 19
PG. 27PG. 25
PG. 24
2 FEB. 29 - MARCH 28, 2016
President Harold J. LeesPublisherGregg RosenfieldDirector of OperationsJaselle Luna
Assoc. PublisherRick Upton
EDITORIALExecutive EditorThomas EdwardsManaging EditorWill WrightNews StaffCollette Orquiz and Bain Serna Contributing WritersOlivier J. Bourgoin, Jacque Crouse, Kate Hunger, Noi Mahoney, Carole Miller, Peter Moralez, Eric Moreno, Edmond Ortiz, Arthur Schechter and Susan Yerkes
ARTCreative DirectorFlorence D. EdwardsContributing PhotographersAlejandra Casas and Rudy B. Ornelas
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
Transit planners have set the wheels in motion for 281 expansion without tolls, probably incorporating controversial high-occupancy vehicle lanes. In addition, city officials will soon review studies which could lead to annexing five unincorporated Bexar County areas including north of Stone Oak.
The 281 corridor – extending from Loop 1604 into Comal County – is booming with residential and commercial development, but those opposed to annexation say such a move could trigger undue taxation and services they already receive from the county.
Meanwhile, the Alamo Area Metropolitan Planning Organization will likely add HOV lanes into a non-tolled Interstate 10 expansion. The same applies to 281, as managed lanes are a part of new plans under review by the Texas Department of Transportation.
After the city receives new annexation assessments, a decision could be made by the summer. Opponents aren’t standing still; residents will join some city, county and state officials in rallies decrying the act.
Area legislators are gaining considerable support in their efforts to curb the powers of larger municipalities over smaller neighbors. These lawmakers vow to again submit bills toward that end when the Legislature convenes in 10 months.
The debate over the transportation and annexation issues will give residents much to ponder going forward.
usiness owners and residents
along the U.S. 281 North corridor should expect major transportation and
annexation decisions in the coming months. Both outcomes will have an impact on the region’s future.
B
ON THE COVER: After working 11 months and spending nearly $9 million, the city has completed the Hardy Oak extension project, which includes new sidewalks, bike paths and more. See story on page 13. Photo by Rudy B. Ornelas
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LOCAL COMMENTARY
Heroes needed on the homefrontby SUSAN YERKES
March is a big month
for remembering heroes in these parts. The 13-day “siege of glory”
at the Alamo, and the bloody battle on March 6, 1836, has become one of America’s most beloved heroic stories.
Women’s History Month is also commemorated in March, and I’ve been thinking about how our culture tends to frame traditional “heroes” as rough-and-ready warriors for a good cause, rather than quiet volunteers on the front lines of hidden, desperate struggles, such as the one to end domestic violence.
Every nine seconds a woman in the United States is assaulted or beaten, according to the National Coalition Against
Domestic Violence. The statistic may just be the tip of the iceberg, as an estimated 70 percent of such cases never get reported. Further, more than 30 percent of female homicides come by the hands of an intimate partner. While men can be victims, too, the overwhelming majority are ladies, children or the elderly – the traditionally powerless.
Jane Shafer, program director for the San Antonio Police Department’s Family Assistance Crisis Team, or F.A.C.T., has seen the dark side for many years. In 1990, Shafer and her Putting an End to Abuse Through Community Efforts, or P.E.A.C.E., Initiative co-founder Patricia Castillo launched F.A.C.T., a volunteer program to help deal with domestic abuse. Since then, F.A.C.T. has trained thousands of volunteers to team with professional social workers in domestic-abuse cases.
“This violence goes on day and night, throughout the city,” Shafer told me. “It happens in every part of town.” Unfortunately, there’s still a lot of shame associated with asking for help, she added.
There’s also the danger of escalating violence if a woman or elderly person reports an abuser. Shafer urged everyone in the community to reach out to people they think may be experiencing domestic abuse. Even if they don’t talk about it, if you notice bruises or injuries, just ask if they’re OK.
It’s not always easy to leave an abusive situation without support from nearby friends or family it can be difficult to make the break.
Some get help through the Bexar County Family Justice Center. Others find refuge at Family Violence Prevention Services Inc.’s Battered Women and Children’s Shelter, where more than a dozen different programs help victims recover their inner strength and prepare for independent lives. Last year, FVPS helped nearly 55,000 women and children, and sadly, the number continues to rise.
To me, women such as Shafer, Castillo, FVPS Executive Director Marta Peláez and the many, many mostly unsung advocates who work to unshackle the abused are genuine heroes. Their dedication may not be spotlighted in battlefield glory, but it’s a powerful, often life-and-death struggle … and it’s not getting easier.
I remember a moving interview I had two years ago with Maria Falcon, supervisor of counseling at the Family Justice Center.
After 28 years as a licensed professional counselor, Falcon called abuse against women the worst hate crime in our society — one seemingly uncontrollable.
“We say it’s a women’s issue, and we work to empower women,” she said, “but it’s happening more than ever.”
Falcon said she believes things will begin to change when the struggle against domestic violence is not framed only as an issue for women, but when it becomes one for men, too.
“Instead of putting all the focus on empowering the victims of abuse, what about putting the focus on the perpetrators? What about society teaching men not to be perpetrators? Men need to stand up and challenge other men – in politics, in the media, in business, the schools, everywhere in society, to declare that abuse is not acceptable,” she said.
From kindergarten to 12th grade, school choice should be important for all families, whether the learner is college-bound or better oriented for a vocation.
Children learn differently from each other; a campus more accommodating for one may not fit the needs of another.
There are plenty of possibilities available.
In general, the school-choice arena offers traditional public campuses, magnet institutions, publicly supported charter schools and online academic venues. Parents, especially those desiring tailored education for their child or prayer in the classroom, can enroll their offspring in a private or parochial
school, or educate them at home.The topic of school choice
recently came to the forefront during National School Choice Week; according to one spokesman with the grassroots effort, 64 percent of Americans would like to have a greater educational menu for their kids.
During School Choice Week, Gov. Greg Abbott urged Texans to explore the kind of learning system that fits their families, even if it’s not public schools.
The issue could take on more prominence during the next legislative session.
In 2013, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, then a state senator, and former Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst pushed for legislation which would’ve used taxpayer money to send youngsters to private facilities. The battle over school vouchers resurfaced in 2015, but again made little headway.
Though public school officials railed against the proposal, it likely hasn’t disappeared.
No matter what, parents uncomfortable with the level of education their child is receiving should have the opportunity to switch to a campus or system they feel is more appropriate.
School choice now
All parents should have the option to pick schooling best suiting
the needs of their children.
-The Local Community News editorial board includes Harry Lees, Gregg Rosenfield and Thomas Edwards.
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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
ENCINO PARK OVER 50 CLUB For folks a half-century old, come to the Encino Park
Community Center, 1923 Encino Rio St., at 11:30 a.m. the first and third Tuesday of the month for fun activities including tours, dinner gatherings and events. For more, call Dyan Montesclaros at 481-7890.
JOHNSON JAGUAR CHEER “CUB” CLINIC The Johnson High School Jaguar Cheerleaders are hosting
the annual cheer “Cub” Clinic for students in kindergarten through ninth grade, 23203 Bulverde Road. Check-in starts at 8:15 a.m. in the main foyer and the clinic concludes with a show-off for friends and family in the gymnasium at 12:30 p.m. Cheers, jumps and dance choreography are on the bill, and participants should wear comfortable clothes and shoes. Registration after Feb. 27 is $45 ; for more, email [email protected].
MAKING FASHION HISTORYDrop by the Parman Branch Library, 20735 Wilderness
Oak Road, from 1-4 p.m. when Karen Sagun will deliver a presentation about fashion from England’s Regency era. Afterward, construct a drawstring bag using provided materials or bring your own fabric. For more, call Patti Vanlandingham at 207-2703.
WOMEN’S BASIC SELF-DEFENSE Attend this martial-arts seminar instructed by
Gracie Barra personnel at the Parman Branch Library, 20735 Wilderness Oak Road, from 1-2 p.m. The free, introductory workshop will instruct women on protecting themselves from an attack. For more, call 207-2703.
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SEW BEE IT The sewing club meets the second Tuesday of every month at Encino
Park Community Center, 1923 Encino Rio St., from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Bring a power strip or extension cord. For more, email Sylvia Jolet at [email protected] or call 497-3383.
PUTTING THE “HEAL” IN “HEALTH” Realize your own healing potential from 10:30
a.m. to noon at the Parman Branch Library, 20735 Wilderness Oak Road. Mastering and balancing your body’s energy and keeping it flowing smoothly may result in reducing pain, breathing easier, sleeping better and gaining vitality. Learn helpful information and practice Spring Forest Qigong exercises in a supportive environment. Group sessions magnify the training. No experience necessary. Dress comfortably in nonrestrictive clothes. Workout can be modified for standing, sitting or lying. For more, call 207-2703.
ENCINO PARK GAME DAY Come to the Encino Park Community Center, 1923
Encino Rio St., at 1:30 p.m. on the second
Thursday of every month for various game-related activities. Non-Encino Park residents are welcome, too. For more, contact Dyan Montesclaros at 481-7890.
WEE WIGGLE SPRING FLING DANCE The Parman Branch Library, 20735 Wilderness
Oak Road, hosts a children’s dance party from 10:15-11:15 a.m. Toddlers and preschoolers can get down with music, balloons and more. Registration is required. For more, call 207-2703.
MILITARY WELCOME American Legion Post 10 holds a breakfast meeting
8-9:30 a.m. the second Saturday of every month from September to June, at The Egg & I, 700 E. Sonterra Blvd., Suite 314. All military, active and veterans, as well as spouses and guests, are invited. For more, email Hector Cavazos, post commander, at [email protected] or call 325-5627.
SCHOOL’S OUT – SPRING BREAK & GOOD FRIDAYSchoolchildren receive
time off when campuses in the
HAPPENING continues from pg. 07
MARCH8
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HAPPENING continues on pg. 09
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BLOOD DRIVE The South Texas Blood & Tissue Center will bring its bloodmobile to the
parking lot at Parman Branch Library, 20735 Wilderness Oak Road, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Help save a life by donating blood. For more, call Tim Johnson at 207-2703.
DISTRICT 9 NEIGHBORHOOD ALLIANCE Meetings are held the fourth Wednesday
of each month at 7 p.m. in Stone Oak Methodist Hospital, 1139 E. Sonterra Blvd., classroom No. 1. The hospital is just off U.S. 281 North. For more, call Art Downey, alliance president, at 497-8873.
PAPERCRAFTING AND SCRAPBOOK CLUB Visit the Parman Branch
Library, 20735 Wilderness Oak Road, from 1-6 p.m. for an afternoon of paper therapy. Begin with a demonstration of a technique, layout idea or project, and then work on your own paper projects such as card-making or scrapbooking. All levels of expertise are welcome. Registration is required. For more, call 207-2703.
EGG-CELLENT TIMECelebrate Easter at Summit Christian Center, 2575 Marshall
Road. Times for services and egg hunts are 5 p.m. service with 6:45 p.m. egg hunt Saturday; Sunday 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. services precede 10 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. egg hunts, respectively. There will be 20,000-plus eggs in addition to inflatables, giveaways, food trucks, carousel rides and Easter Bunny photo opportunities. For more, visit summitsa.com.
NEISD BOARD The scheduled meeting of North East Independent School
District trustees will be 5:30 p.m. at
8961 Tesoro Drive. To confirm dates and times, call 407-0533.
SHAPING UP FOR A NEW YOU While the Parman Branch Library, 20735 Wilderness
Oak Road, usually exercises your mind, come exercise your body from 10-11 a.m. A San Antonio Parks & Recreation Department instructor will lead a class in low-impact physical training. The session will focus on agility and flexibility. For more, call 207-2703.
SO, YOU THINK YOU CAN SEW For an afternoon of advice
and conversation leaving you in stitches, the Encino Branch Library, 2515 E. Evans Road, hosts experienced needle enthusiasts from 12:30-3 p.m. The Hand Bee is a close-knit group of adults. If you’re sew-inclined and seek more, call 207-9250.
TABLE TENNIS ANYONE? Pingpong for adults is available at the Parman
Branch Library, 20735 Wilderness Oak Road, meeting room B, from 1-3 p.m. All skill levels are welcome. For more, call Tim Johnson at 207-2703.
JOIN THE FITNESS KICK The Encino Branch Library, 2515 E. Evans Road, tests your
body at noon or 12:30 p.m. Learn martial arts from a third-degree black-belt instructor. This program teaches basics while improving strength, flexibility, conditioning and balance. Coordinated by Fitness in the Park, sessions are free and families are encouraged to participate together. The 30-minute class is limited to 30 attendees. For more, call 207-9250.
SUBMITTING EVENTS: Email all the details along with your contact information two months in advance to [email protected].
HAPPENING continues from pg. 08
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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. WIN WELL TENNIS, 18720 Stone Oak Parkway, Suite 152, is billed as “Your one-stop tennis shop!” in Stone Oak Plaza. Hours are 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. For more, call 492-0200 or visit www.iwinwell.com or facebook.com/winwelltennis. (See story on page 24)
2. PLANET FITNESS, 20760 U.S. 281 North at Evans Road, offers a unique and affordable exercise experience in a non-intimidating environment, company officials said. Open 24 hours daily. For more, call 455-6835 or visit www.planetfitness.com. (See story on page 25)
3. SMOOTHIE KING, 17910 Bulverde Road, Suite 107, offers tasty smoothies and other iced and refreshing treats. Hours are 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday. For more,
call 882-7560 or visit www.smoothie king.com. (See story on page 26)
4. VIDA MIA MEXICAN CUISINE, 22250 Bulverde Road, Suite 114 in The Shops at Fossil Creek, is the second of the family-owned restaurants; the original debuted in 2011 at 19141 Stone Oak Parkway, Suite 803. Recipes are based on 40 years of family tradition, according to a statement. Hours are 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 7 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Sunday through Thursday hours will be extended when the bar opens. For more, call 490-2013 or visit www.vidamiacuisine.com. (See story on page 27)
IN OTHER NEWS“TEX” HILL MIDDLE SCHOOL RECENTLY NAMED Julie Shore school principal. The Texas State University graduate previously served as assistant principal of curriculum and instruction at Johnson High School. She began her career as dance, drill and pep
squad director at Marshall High School, later serving as assistant principal at Tejeda Middle School. Shore is excited about her latest opportunity. “I feel very fortunate to continue working in the Johnson cluster,” she said. “I have grown to love the students and families in this community. I have been extremely impressed with the staff here at ‘Tex’ Hill, and will work hard to continue building upon the foundation of excellence already established here.”
SAN ANTONIO CHRISTIAN SCHOOL STUDENTS Alexander Green and Joshua Pink recently were selected to participate as National Youth Correspondents to the 2016 Washington Journalism and Media Conference at George Mason University in Virginia. Both students, who were chosen based on academic accomplishments, will join others nationwide in an intensive study of journalism and media at the weeklong program July 17-22. The event, featuring an array of guest speakers and prominent journalists, is designed to encourage and inspire young leaders seeking successful media careers.
AREA PUBLIC HIGH SCHOOLS WILL STAY IN THEIR CURRENT COMPETITIVE DISTRICTS, according to the University Interscholastic League. On Feb. 1, UIL announced its
statewide biennial realignments for 2016-17 and 2017-18. Last December, Texas’ governing body for extracurricular public school activities, announced enrollment cutoff numbers based on average daily membership submitted by district superintendents in October. There was little change statewide, which added only 50 pupils to Texas’ highest classification. Schools with enrollments above 2,150 students are assigned in Class 6A, followed by 5A (1,100-2,149); 4A (480-1,099); 3A (221-479); 2A (105-220) and Class A (104 and below). North East Independent School District’s seven high schools will remain alone in District 26-6A for football and basketball.
JOHNSON HIGH SCHOOL CHEERLEADERS won the University Interscholastic League’s first-ever Class 6A Spirit State Championships at the University of Texas-Arlington on Jan. 16. Johnson defeated 96 teams statewide. The squad participated in three different preliminary-round events and ranked third overall going into the finals, where Johnson’s 93.8 points took first place besting McAllen Memorial (92 points) and Pearland (91.9 points). “Their performance in the final round was a reflection of this hard work, dedication and
LOWDOWN continues on pg. 11
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their commitment to their teammates,” said Shannon McKinley, Jaguars’ cheer coach.
COUNCILMAN JOE KRIER SAID SCHOOL ZONES last year became safer across City Council District 9, which he represents. “We made solid progress in 2015 in our efforts to protect children from traffic as they walk to and from school,” Krier said in a recent online newsletter. Accomplishments included 1.6 miles of sidewalks installed near institutions; 53 school crosswalks re-striped; all school flashers received comprehensive maintenance; and 731 signs were updated to current standards. The district is home to 39 schools — 21 public, 16 private and two charter.
THE STONE OAK PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION WON Mega Community of the Year for 2015 at the San Antonio Community Associations Institute Gala Feb. 6. According to a POA release, “Recognition was based on the coordination and planning of water-conservation efforts, as well as landscape redesign, while still maintaining the aesthetics of the community, thus setting an example for all property owners.” Additionally, according to the statement, the award also recognizes “POA community outreach projects that assist in conservation
and education, such as the Donation & Dumping Events, Shredding Events, Rain Barrel Workshops and Arbor Day Events.”
OFFICIALS ARE DETERMINING if stop signs at a four-way intersection at Stone Oak Parkway south of Hardy Oak Boulevard and north of Knights Cross Drive should be replaced with red lights and sensors. Meanwhile, San Antonio Police Department officers directed traffic there in February to alleviate congestion during morning and afternoon rush hours, according to the Stone Oak Property Owners Association.
VIKI MELTON, KEN PILAND AND JOE SILMAN, representing residents, all won re-election to the Stone Oak Property Owners Association’s board during its annual meeting in late January. Returning commercial-property representatives include North Central Baptist Hospital and JPMorgan Chase & Co.; they’re joined by Oxford Sonterra Partners Ltd., according to officials.
DUAL-LANGUAGE PROGRAM INFORMATIONAL MEETINGS are set for parents of incoming Comal Independent School District kindergartners. The district’s
LOWDOWN continues on pg. 12
LOWDOWN continues from pg. 10
12 FEB. 29 - MARCH 28, 2016
dual-language curriculum integrates native Spanish-speaking pupils with primarily English ones, for instruction in both tongues. The purpose is to develop bilingual listening, speaking, reading and writing skills for enrolled students from kindergarten through fifth grade. During 2016-17, the program will be offered at Brown, Clear Spring, Kinder Ranch and Morningside elementary schools. Parents of prospective kindergarteners not designated for those institutions but who are interested, may take their children to a campus of choice. Informational meetings begin March 22 at Clear Spring. Other 6:30 p.m. sessions include Morningside (April 4); Kinder Ranch (April 6); and Brown (April 7). For more, visit www.comalisd.org.
COMAL INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT SUPERINTENDENT ANDREW KIM was recently appointed presiding officer on the newly created Texas Commission on Next Generation Assessments and Accountability, according to a CISD release. The board, authorized by House Bill 2804 to develop and recommend a new system of student assessments and public school accountability by Sept. 1.,
LOWDOWN continues from pg. 11
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will meet several times in Austin during the upcoming months. Kim, named by Gov. Greg Abbott, said he strongly believes in an accountability system for gauging pupils’ progression. “I do believe in an accountability system that measures student progress from year to year in each district across this great state,” he said. “We need to measure the progress of our work. More than ever, I think we should share and learn from that information so we can make local decisions that strengthen our school district and our community.”
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HARDY OAK continues from pg. 01
Work on Hardy Oak Boulevard, designed to alleviate vehicle overcrowding, produced a four-lane divided roadway connecting Stone Oak Parkway to Knights Cross Drive. Residents claim positive results.
“I think the extension of Hardy Oak has helped relieve some traffic congestion,” said Art Downey, chairman of the Stone Oak Property Owners Association. “I use it myself when heading to Highway 281 to avoid the congestion that has been created by the new Starbucks at Stone Oak Parkway and Evans Road.”
Construction began in January 2015 and was funded from the 2012-17 bond program.
City officials said extending Hardy Oak should improve the quality of life for motorists in the area.
“As a result of this project, area residents will spend significantly less time in traffic, whether they’re driving to work or the store, or heading out with friends,” District 9 Councilman Joe Krier said in a January release.
Additional improvements on the Hardy Oak/Knights Cross extension
include new sidewalks, bike paths, driveway approaches, an upgraded traffic signal and drainage improvements.
Mike Frisbie, city engineer and director of Transportation & Capital Improvements, said the project was completed on time with no delays.
Previously, Hardy Oak dead-ended just south of Stone Oak Parkway, forcing drivers to take winding routes to get to their destination.
Hardy Oak now concludes in front of Las Lomas Elementary School, bisected by privately owned land, and begins again near Methodist Stone Oak Hospital.
Frisbie said the city has plans to connect the two sections of Hardy Oak at some point, which would run the roadway to Sonterra Boulevard and advance it all the way to Loop 1604.
“This is a part of our major thoroughfare plan,” Frisbie said. “At this point there is no timetable for when this will occur. However, it is something we have planned for the future.”
Downey noted linking the two portions of Hardy Oak would greatly improve traffic woes in the area.
“Extending Hardy Oak even farther down to Sonterra will provide alternative routes to both 281 and 1604 and will be very important,” he said. “I hope to see that accomplished as part of the 2017 bond.”
The city recently completed the $8.8 million Hardy Oak Boulevard extension, connecting Stone Oak Parkway to Knights Cross Drive. Art Downey (above), chairman of the Stone Oak Property Owners Association, said the new lanes will relieve traffic congestion. Photo by Rudy B. Ornelas
Road someday could extend to Loop 1604by NOI MAHONEY
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Those desiring more public-transportation options are pitted against others saying the plan would infringe on personal liberties at additional taxpayer cost. However, the Alamo Area Metropolitan Planning Organization is moving ahead with plans to include HOV lanes in expansions for both 281 and Interstate 10 West.
“We’re looking at it strictly from a mobility standpoint,” said Sid
Martinez, MPO executive director. “It’s about how to move the most people through both corridors.”
The proposed tollway routes for 281 and I-10 stalled last November when voters OK’d Proposition 7, which will funnel billions into state roadway upgrades, including the San Antonio area in 2018.
Martinez said the 281 project has been approved with HOV lanes; on March 28
the board will vote on a similar resolution for I-10. He said the HOV component has always been part of tolled and non-tolled expansions for both roadways.
The MPO remains committed to including HOV lanes in a $532 million expansion of 281 from Loop 1604 to the Comal County line, and a $200 million augmentation of I-10 north of 1604.
In January, the Texas Department
of Transportation announced $1.3 billion in state funds for congestion-relief projects, accelerating the timeline for both thoroughfares.
However, some feel HOV lanes are taking taxpayers for a ride.
Terri Hall, founder and director of the anti-toll group Texans Uniting for Reform & Freedom, or TURF, said she’d lobby against them.
“These HOV lanes are anti-liberty and they’re using our tax money to build lanes the vast majority of the traveling public will never be able to access,” she said. “HOV lanes have never resulted in congestion reduction. All they do is get you out of your car and into another mode of travel that’s deemed more politically correct.”
The controversy led planners to postpone a decision on I-10 until after receiving more information on managed lanes at their Jan. 25 meeting.
There, Ginger Goodin, an engineer with the Texas A&M Transportation Institute, said such lanes are another option to increase the amount of people moving through busy corridors. According to Goodin’s recent presentation, managed lanes will decrease cost and time for travelers now suffering through congested
MPO set to decide I-10 HOV lanes on March 28
Alamo Area Metropolitan Planning Organization’s Transportation Policy Board is conducting public input on 41 project proposals totaling $414.6 million being considered for the region’s new four-year Transportation Improvement Program for FY 2017-20, including these area requests:
n Blanco Road (FM 2696) from West Oak Estates Drive to Borgfeld Road; widen from two to four lanes with a raised median; adding bike lanes, curbs, sidewalks and drainage.
PROJECT AMOUNT REQUESTED: $14,661,235
n Loop 1604 at Blanco Road; construct intersection improvements
PROJECT AMOUNT REQUESTED: $5.4 MILLION
n Loop 1604 between Redland Road and Bulverde Road; reverse on/off ramps west of Bulverde; install east-west turnaround lanes at Bulverde
PROJECT AMOUNT REQUESTED: $10.1 MILLION
SOURCE: Alamo Area Metropolitan Planning Organization
NOTABLE MPO TRANSPORTATION PROJECT PROPOSALS
by WILL WRIGHT
Though paying for the expansion of U.S. 281 with tolls has hit the brakes,
a new transit battle is picking up speed over proposals creating future high-occupancy vehicle lanes for buses and carpools.
HOV continues on pg. 15
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general-purpose lanes. She cited numbers from HOV-lane usage in Houston and Dallas, which have served as models for mass transit through managed lanes.
“They won’t necessarily reduce the congestion in the corridor,” she said. “It’s not a congestion-reduction strategy, but a way to improve movement in a congested corridor. The idea is to provide incentives to help people shift their traffic behavior – by taking a bus or forming carpools.”
Area residents at the hearing appeared divided.
“I feel it will be a be a tragic decision not to maintain at least a single special-purpose lane in future plans for 281 and (expansion) north of I-10,” John Kelly said.
Future smart-car and mass-transit innovations would eventually increase traffic on the special lanes, Kelly said, urging MPO board members to “act on behalf of citizens in the most forward-thinking terms possible” by instituting HOV lanes.
“I really think we need not miss this opportunity to maintain the viability and flexibility of these facilities as we go forward,” he said.
Retired businessman and engineer Don Dixon has regularly fought HOV lanes. He said adding managed lanes to accommodate mass transit boils down to “social engineering.”
“You can’t control our citizens into losing their personal freedoms,” he noted. “You can’t try to push them into a bus that a lot of drivers want to (avoid) using.”
Patrick Dossey, a retired certified public accountant and 50-year San Antonio resident, concurs with Dixon.
“I don’t want to cut down any existing lanes, and if there are HOV lanes, we should keep the tolls off of it,” he said. “Keep it cheap, keep the same number of lanes, and keep it free – that’s what we voted for in November and it’s what we want.”
Dossey and others said VIA Metropolitan Transit’s funding of past and present projects has influenced the inclusion
of HOV lanes, which could be built to flow into future VIA park-and-ride facilities.
“That was always the plan to begin with, so that (mass) transit and registered carpoolers would be able to use that road for free,” Martinez said. “So while the tolls are removed, it keeps the mobility option available and keeps the region moving.”
MPO Chairman and District 6 Councilman Ray Lopez said the public is clamoring for “a more transit-oriented view” toward expanding both roadways.
“Their concern is certainly about moving cars, but more importantly, it’s about moving people,” he said.
District 8 Councilman Ron Nirenberg agreed folks need additional transit choices; HOV lanes serve as a “congestion-management” tool.
“At this point, without a revenue source and limited tools at our disposal to really manage the congestion along these corridors, this seems like a great option for us to consider and our residents support it,” he said. “I am fully supportive of the HOV component moving forward.”
Nirenberg also endorses ride-hailing services such as Uber and Lyft.
Bexar County Commissioners Court on Feb. 9 approved agreements with TxDOT to expand a 9-mile section of 1604 on the county’s west end. The $185 million project will enlarge the thoroughfare into a four-lane expressway without HOV lanes, and will be funded through a combination of regional, state and federal sources.
Hall said the announcement indicated a bias favoring HOV lanes for the area.
“The West Side is one of the fastest growing parts of San Antonio right now,” she said. “Just because 281 and I-10 has more residents and is more congested, doesn’t mean it’s OK for big government to pick winners and losers.”
She added, “Why are we spending billions of taxpayer money to build lanes nobody will use, when we have congestion problems everywhere else? It’s insanity to keep doing the same thing over and over again and expecting the same results.”
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As Americans live longer and retire later, many are taking medical-oriented actions to help turn back the clock.
Most of the 15.6 million procedures listed in the latest ASPS survey were deemed
“minimally invasive” — such as Botox and injectable fillers; chemical peels and microdermabrasion, and laser hair removal. The remaining 1.7 million were surgical, with breast augmentation the most popular, followed by nose reshaping, liposuction, eyelid lifts and full face-lifts. Nearly 6 million more reconstructive, as opposed to cosmetic, plastic surgeries were done to correct the effects of disease or injury.
San Antonio is in tune with the general proliferation in cosmetic procedures, according to Richard Levine, a board-certified plastic surgeon who opened his private practice here in 1981.
“Cosmetic surgery is not just the domain of the rich and famous anymore,” Levine said.
Fat grafts and injectable fillers can change the contours of faces and bodies; liposuction can remove unwanted fat deposits, and neurotoxins such as Botox can ease frown lines and wrinkles.
However, the fountain of youth isn’t cheap.
In 2013, Americans spent more than $12 billion on physician fees and materials for cosmetic enhancements – not to mention
hospital costs. The numbers aren’t likely to lessen, although procedure expenses have stabilized or slightly decreased.
According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, in 2013, the average national cost of a Botox treatment was around $390, and injectable fillers such as Juvederm or Restylane ranged from $500-$600, and usually required repeating two to three times yearly for effectiveness. Laser skin resurfacing was about a $2,200 hit, with
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Want to perk up a tired face or body? You’re not alone. According to the
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COSMETIC continues on pg. 17
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liposuction averaging $2,800. Physician fees alone for breast-augmentation surgeries averaged $5,000-$6,000, $4,800 for tummy tucks, and $4,300 for buttock augmentation, one of the fastest-growing U.S. trends. Face-lifts averaged $6,500.
Hospitalization, anesthesia, and more can easily double the final price.
Also, don’t expect insurance to cover cosmetic surgery, so choose a qualified practitioner for whatever you’re considering.
Dr. Christie Bialowas cautions bargain-seekers to beware.
“We see people who have had all sorts of things injected in their faces – some people even use silicone, which can be a real problem,” she said. “Injecting neurotoxins in the wrong facial area can even cause blindness. It’s serious business.”
Bialowas, a board-certified plastic surgeon, is with UT Medicine, the clinical practice of the School of Medicine at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio.
“Most people don’t realize we offer cosmetic procedures here,” she said.
At UT Medicine, Bialowas sees patients for both reconstructive and cosmetic procedures.
Silicone or saline implants once were standards for breast or buttock augmentations.
Now, however, advances in transferring fat, via liposuction, from one area of a person’s body to another, resulted in an increased demand, she said.
Facial areas, breasts, buttocks and even hands – where the age concealed by cosmetic procedures often shows up – have become popular areas for fat grafting.
High obesity rates in the San
Antonio vicinity also lead quite a few men to seek breast-reduction surgery. Average national prices for male breast reductions are $200-$300 lower than females. Body lifts, a combination of liposuction and removal of sagging skin, displace cellulite and reshape the entire abdomen, rear end and thigh area.
It’s important to remember, however, liposuction isn’t intended for dramatic weight loss.
“People need to understand that obesity is not an indication for cosmetic surgery,” Levine said. “It’s much better to get a fitness routine, lose weight or see a bariatric surgeon for the weight loss.”
Lifts and liposuction are more effective once a patient reaches a reasonable, stable weight.
Today’s silicone implants are much safer than a couple of decades ago; some were susceptible to leaking into the body, Levine said.
He uses “gummy bear” implants, made of silicone adhering to itself.
“Most of the women I see for breast surgery want to have natural-looking breasts, so my average implant is smaller than some doctors use,” Levine said.
While Levine offers nonsurgical treatments, he usually recommends face-lifts and/or eye-lifts to folks older than 50.
Levine, who has a well-established North Side practice, said most of his patients are well-informed.
For guidance, the ASPS website at plasticsurgery.org has user-friendly descriptions, videos and a national directory of ASPS board-certified physicians. For recommendations, you can also consult your family doctor, or even friends who have experienced positive results.
COSMETIC continues from pg. 16
Several medical providers in San Antonio offer cosmetic and reconstructive procedures, including UT Medicine, the clinical practice of the School of Medicine at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. Courtesy photo
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention agrees, and adds humans to the workout regimen. A regular fitness routine
reduces cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome and some cancers. Exercise also strengthens bones and muscles, improves mental health and protects injuries in elders due to falls.
There are three types of exercise: aerobic, anaerobic and flexibility. The Department of Health and Human Services recommends healthy adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity weekly, and some form of anaerobic exercise no less than twice a week.
Aerobic exercise, aka “cardio,” includes heart-pumping behavior such as running, swimming, cycling and tennis. Frequent and regular aerobic exercise can prevent high blood pressure, obesity, heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, insomnia and depression.
“Rowing is the best new form of group cardio,” says Alison Smith, owner of Energy X Fitness, 5162 Broadway. “It’s a very low-impact, but high-energy workout.”
In addition, Energy X Fitness offers group classes including ShockWave, cross-training, total-body resistance exercise, kettlebell workouts, Vinyasa yoga and personal training.
Anaerobic exercise (more commonly
referred to as strength training) includes working out with free weights, weight machines or doing traditional strength exercises such as pushups, squats and chin-ups. Strength training increases bone, muscle, tendon and ligament potency, endurance and improves joint and cardiac function, reduces the potential for injury resulting from weak muscles, elevates levels of “good” cholesterol and lowers the risk of osteoporosis.
The stereotypical picture of muscle-bound men lifting weights is antiquated.
“A one-size-fits-all approach is outdated,” said Leslie Edwards, CEO of Heart of Texas Fitness and owner of Koko Fit Club in Alamo Heights and The Dominion. “People want more customization and individual attention. We provide personal training without the cost and without scheduling appointments.”
Koko Fit Club, open 24/7, offers cyber-friendly strength training and cardio using a computer and a coach. Gym staffers program an individual, recommended 30-minute workout schedule on a flash drive, which tells a client exactly what to do and how much to lift. Then, results and progress are easily tracked on an efficient and manageable personal website.
Flexibility training includes yoga,
Pilates and tai chi. The disciplines improve posture, make it easier to relax, alleviate soreness in overworked muscles, relieve stress and reduce chronic back pain. Flexibility generally deteriorates with age, often due to a sedentary lifestyle, with daily activities becoming difficult. This increases the risk of injury, especially in older adults.
Smith recommends yoga for seniors (and everyone, really) as a great form of exercise.
“Yoga provides strength, flexibility, balance, and most often forgotten, relaxation. Yoga can literally be for everybody,” she said.
“Even if you can only exercise in a chair, it’s important to keep your core and leg muscles active versus sedentary,” said Andres B. Cruz, vice president of Pride PHC Services, a local company that works with the elderly and infirm providing personal attendants and daily-living necessities for customers’ security and self-sufficiency.
“The trend that is universally recognized is that the baby boomer/elder population is increasing exponentially,” Cruz said. “Services like ours will continue to be helpful to many individuals as they see they have a need for support in their homes, to remain safe and independent.”
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“Losing weight is 70 to 80 percent diet,” said Jan Tilley, a registered dietitian and president and CEO of JTA Wellness in San Antonio. “You can’t out-train a bad diet, but it still takes both dieting and exercise.”
Tilley advises clients to follow six tips: eat every three hours, always ingest carbs with lean proteins and healthy fats, exercise every day, don’t let hunger get ahead of you (don’t overeat), avoid inflammatory foods (sugary, processed or high in saturated fats), and strategize.
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As Americans live longer, many have a long list of intertwining health problems.
Tilley said older people and seniors must understand unhealthy consumption can lead to Type 2 diabetes, heart disease and hypertension.
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“I’m proud of the entire process,” NEISD Superintendent Brian Gottardy said. “This bond program is all about equity. A lot of great things are going to occur for students at every one of our campuses.”
“We’re in the initial stages of the process,” added Aubrey Chancellor, an NEISD spokeswoman. “The first step is the design process, and architects have been selected by the school board.”
Trustees on Feb. 8 picked 13
architectural and 15 engineering firms.“They have been assigned specific
projects and the next step is having them work on those designs over the next six to nine months,” Chancellor said.
The 2015 bond has seven categories. Most funding – $225.8 million – is slated to enrich NEISD campuses. The rest will enhance extracurricular activity programs ($89.8 million); instructional technology and campus support programs ($72.4 million); district operations ($60 million); safety and security measures ($20 million); bond program management ($17 million); and a bond contingency program ($15 million).
“We’re currently working on a timeline, where all of the projects will be prioritized, and hope to have that completed before the end of February or early March,” Chancellor added.
Near the top of the agenda is converting the old Time Warner Cable Park, a 57-acre sports complex located north of Wurzbach Parkway on Wetmore Road.
Last fall City Council approved a long-term lease agreement with the district, which will eventually purchase the facility for $3.2 million.
The park features six softball fields, a swimming pool, beach-volleyball courts, a pavilion, restroom facilities,
concession stands and playgrounds. A $10 million allocation in the bond will go toward revising and improving those amenities for use by all district schools.
NEISD plans to enlarge the pool, convert a softball field to baseball, and upgrade other areas to accommodate school events.
“That is going to be a priority project, because we want to put that to use as soon as we can,” Chancellor said.
Other bond priorities will be set and scheduled through the district’s
NEISD continues from pg. 01
Conversion of athletic park among prioritiesby WILL WRIGHT
Four months after voters approved a $499.5 million bond request,
North East Independent School District officials have taken the first steps toward upgrading and improving district facilities.
n Improving campus security and safety n Add technology-system upgrades (both infrastructure and equipment)n Improve library operations n Replace portable buildings with new classroom facilitiesn Improve and expand extracurricular facilities for athletics, fine arts, JROTC areas as well as enhance natatorium, football stadium and tennis-center areas at the district’s central athletic facilitiesn Phased replacement of aging campus facilities at Garner, Jackson and Krueger middle schools and Churchill and Lee high schools
n Create a district Career and Technology Academy n Expand the district magnet program’s Agriscience Centern Improve secondary school campus athletic sports fieldsn Install walking tracks at elementary school campuses n Upgrade and provide additional maintenance for aging infrastructure n Improve student health and campus food service areasn Replace aging buses with new ones
Source: NEISD
THE NORTH EAST ISD 2015 BOND - AT A GLANCE
North East Independent School District’s 2015 bond will address the following areas:
Construction Management and Engineering Department, which handles all aspects of bond construction.
After concluding a 20-year career with the Army Corps of Engineers, Gary Sullivan has participated in the district’s last five bond projects, the last four as CM&E’s executive director.
“It is truly an honor and privilege to lead the way in designing and executing
NEISD continues on pg. 21
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the district’s newest bond program,” he said. “It touches every single campus in some way. The majority of funding is dedicated to upgrading our older campuses (through) new additions and renovations. However, program areas at newer schools are bursting at the seams and additions at those schools will help alleviate crowded conditions.”
Receiving the greatest individual shares of bond funding are North East School of the Arts at Lee High School ($35 million for a new fine-arts center); partial facility replacements at Krueger and Jackson middle schools ($28 million each); replacing Churchill High School’s Academic Career and Technology Center ($25 million); a partial facility replacement at Garner Middle School ($21 million); and portable building replacements at Regency Place Elementary School ($20 million).
NEISD voters approved bonds of $449 million, $498 million and $399 million in 2003, 2007 and 2011, respectively. The latest measure won’t affect taxpayers for at least five years, officials said.
The district’s Citizens Bond Advisory Committee, established in 2003, evaluates bond projects ensuring the scope, cost
NEISD continues from pg. 20 and timeline of each. Meeting monthly, 25 residents serve on the board reviewing old construction projects, while monitoring progress and status of current ones.
Fred Morrison, a CBAC participant since its inception, has been its executive chairman the last 10 years.
“I believe that we serve to build taxpayer trust,” Morrison said. “The CBAC has made sure the past three bond issues have met or exceeded taxpayer expectations. The thing that I am most impressed with is that over the last dozen years NEISD continues to not only build the necessary structures to handle growth, but has improved and rebuilt our oldest campuses in the interest of equity across the district.”
The 2011 bond led to the creation of “Tex” Hill Middle School, replaced portable buildings at Camelot, Coker and Windcrest elementary schools, and provided notable additions to Reagan High School and other district facilities.
Construction on 2011 bond projects will wrap later this year or early 2017.
“Everything is on budget, and in fact, under budget,” Chancellor said. “Each time the district goes out for a bond the work is completed within a five-year period.”
With nearly 70,000 students, NEISD is the second-largest district in San Antonio, officials said.
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Through a partnership with the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, NEISD offers the two-semester, state-certified EMT course at Johnson, Churchill, Roosevelt and Madison high schools. Students who complete the course are eligible to take a national standardized EMT exam after they graduate.
Those who pass the test can apply for
their Texas state EMT certification.“For me it’s very motivating and it’s
very heart-touching because we go out in the real world and we’re helping real people,” said Churchill senior Hugo Aguilar, who is taking the class.
He plans to attend the University of the Incarnate Word School of Nursing to pursue a career as a flight nurse. During an eight-hour ambulance ride out, as they are called, Hugo assisted on a call for a diabetic patient who had forgotten her medicine and was experiencing serious swelling.
The call made an impression on Hugo, who said he hopes to work as an EMT while in college. He said the course has impressed upon him the importance of safety for both the responder and the patient, as well as the need for quickly assessing the patient’s condition and figuring out how to handle situations involving law enforcement or other sensitive circumstances.
The EMT course is rigorous, said Eddie Battros, a lecturer in the Emergency Health Sciences Department at UTHSCSA and the NEISD EMT course liaison.
Battros, who instructs the class at Churchill, also is Bexar County’s first-
Students get real-world experience riding with EMTsby KATE HUNGER
A senior year in high school promises many unique experiences, but for students
at four North East Independent School District campuses enrolled in an Emergency Medical Technician course, it means riding in ambulances, observing emergency-room care and possibly helping save lives.
PARTNERSHIP continues on pg. 23
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PARTNERSHIP continues from pg. 22
responder coordinator. In addition to lectures and independent study on topics including anatomy, physiology and pharmacology, students also participate in clinical rotations at University Hospital and ride along with San Antonio Fire Department ambulances, where they can perform basic skills such as taking patients’ vital signs, obtaining medical histories and performing breathing control.
“Most of what they are getting from these ride outs is getting the real-world skills of watching paramedics do their jobs,” Battros said.
One of the biggest organizational challenges has been fine-tuning how to present the course material in a one-hour class, five days a week, he said.
“It’s not taught like a traditional high school class,” Battros said. “They have to be self-motivated and do a lot of self study.”
Students have even helped save lives, he said, explaining that during an ambulance ride out this fall, a Madison EMT student was part of the team that resuscitated a patient who had gone into cardiac arrest.
Some students take the class and discover a career in the medical field is not the right fit for them, which is part of the process of discovery and exploration that high school students should be encouraged to experience, said Johnny Vahalik, director of Career and Technical Education at NEISD.
Even if students decide not to pursue their EMT certification, they still finish the class with a sense of pride for having mastered skills — including life-saving, critical thinking and interpersonal —that will benefit them no matter what career path they choose, Vahalik said.
“This is another measure of being college and career ready,” he said.
An EMT course began at Roosevelt several years ago with a different partner, but Vahalik credited the partnership with UTHSCSA, now in its second year, for enabling the district to expand the program. Vahalik said he hopes to make the EMT program available districtwide.
The EMT class that University of Texas at Austin freshman Claire Fazzone took at Churchill last year helped her decide what destiny to follow. She plans to use her certification in multiple ways, including as an EMT on campus, as a volunteer nurse at a campus clinic and as a summer-camp nurse.
Her ultimate goal is to become a physician assistant.
“I wasn’t even interested in a medical career before I took this class and now all I want to do is medicine,” Fazzone said. “It was just so interesting and I never would have had the chance to experience that.”
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Watts, who began the business to take advantage of the game’s growth, said residents appreciate his enterprise in the neighborhood.
“Stone Oak is a great area of town for us in that everything seems to converge out here,” Watts said. “Everyone has really enjoyed the store and what we have to offer. I like to say that we do a good job of curating our merchandise in that I
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The shop nets a plethora of tennis accoutrement, including the highly in demand Babolat rackets; Wilson balls; and Nike apparel, Lacoste and the well-liked TravisMathew line, endorsed by former pro stars Andy Roddick and James Blake.
“We also offer a full line of tennis shoes for men, women, boys and girls,” Watts said. “Asics, right now, is our most popular seller. Most people are unaware how popular they are in the industry and in the sport. We also
Win Well Tennis matching customers with sport
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(stock) Nike shoes and Adidas. I think we have a really cool mix of equipment and clothing. Aesthetically, I think we have kind of a vintage feel. Everyone seems to enjoy it so far.”
Hours are 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday.
WIN WELL TENNIS18720 Stone Oak Parkway, Suite 152
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Win Well Tennis (above, photo by Alejandra Casas) caters to enthusiasts and players, from offering the latest shoes to restringing rackets (both far left, photo by Collette Orquiz).
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For more, call 455-6835 or visit www.planetfitness.com
“As a lifelong resident, I’m proud of the expansion and commitment that Planet Fitness has made in San Antonio,” said Lisa Ybarbo, area manager. “I feel that it’s imperative to open locations in areas that will make it convenient for individuals to join our gym and take advantage of all we have to offer.”
The latest fitness center is at 20760 U.S. 281 North. It is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
“We have 90 cardiovascular machines, dumbbells, weight-lifting benches and cable towers to accommodate any level of workout that someone wants to get
involved in,” Ybarbo said. “And this is all available in what we have truly created, a ‘Judgment Free Zone.’”
The statement sums up the Planet Fitness philosophy, Ybarbo said: It’s a personal guarantee that those walking into the gym — whether for the first time or the hundredth — are welcome and treated equally.
“It’s our goal to have our guests get into the best shape they desire, and to do so with the assistance of our fitness trainer, who offers small group classes on a daily basis, and who will create a workout regimen that will help anyone work on whatever they want to work on,” she said. “And all of this at the affordable membership price of only $10 a month, for unlimited visits to your home gym.”
There also is an upgrade membership available for $19.99 a month that includes use of the fitness centers at any of the 12 greater San Antonio locations,
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Planet Fitness opens latest SA location
Planet Fitness has landed on the far North Side with its newest San Antonio location.
The newest Planet Fitness location promotes healthy exercise in a Judgment Free Zone that welcomes all patrons, whether novice or expert. It is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Photo by Collette Orquiz
HAPPENING continues on pg. 09
HAPPENING continues on pg. 09
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EAT LOCALLearn about the newest neighborhood places for breakfast, lunch, dinner or drinks
With two existing stores under her belt already, owner Sharon Repka Heausler opened a third Smoothie King franchise, 17910 Bulverde Road, Suite 107, in early February.
The Smoothie King at the intersection with Loop 1604 is poised to make a difference in customers’ lives by providing tasty treats that also are healthy, Heausler said.
“We are more than a smoothie shop,” Heausler said during a recent telephone
interview. “We are a nutritional life center. We offer supplements and healthy snacks and we have a product for every situation, whether you want to lose weight or gain weight or just maintain a healthy weight.”
Since the opening of its first outlet in New Orleans in 1973, Smoothie King has been growing. There are more than 650 stores across three continents including Korea, as well as Singapore and Grand Cayman Island.
“I opened my first store in January 2008 at 1604 and Bandera (Road) and in May of 2013 I took over an existing location at 1604 and (U.S.) 281,” Heausler said. “It’s a brand I believe in. I’m from New Orleans and I grew up with it.”
The 1,400-square-foot store serves more than 40 flavors.
Her favorite smoothie is “Strawberry Lean1, add Mango.”
A customer favorite is The Gladiator, with 45 grams of protein plus two fruits of choice.
“That’s my husband’s favorite,” Heausler added.
Smoothies come in 20-ounce, 32-ounce or 40-ounce portions.
More stores are a possibility, the businesswoman said, but for now she has plenty to keep her busy.
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Whipping up treats at new Smoothie Kingby OLIVIER J. BOURGOIN
New Orleans-based Smoothie King — “Smoothies With a Purpose” — is continuing
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now, I’m going to be spending a lot of time here,” Heausler said.
Hours are 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday.
SMOOTHIE KING17910 Bulverde Road, Suite 107For more, call 882-7560 or
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The motto 'Smoothies With A Purpose' on the wall of the new Smoothie King is part of the company's promotion as a nutritional life center with healthy snacks. Photo by Collette Orquiz
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EAT LOCALLearn about the newest neighborhood places for breakfast, lunch, dinner or drinks
by JACQUE CROUSE A recently debuted second restaurant at 22250 Bulverde Road, Suite 114 at Evans Road, offers the same authentic dishes brought from Monterrey, Mexico, but with more space, outdoor seating and — very soon — a bar with happy-hour specials.
“Until the bar opens, it is bring your own bottle,” said Maria Ramos who,
along with sister and cook Mayela, plus parents Jose and Maria Elena, owns and operates Vida Mia.
For the health-conscious, the family has started a smoothie bar at the new locale in The Shops at Fossil Creek.
A restaurant standout is all-day breakfast, especially the chilaquiles which are layered works of art, Ramos said.
“It is not the mixed traditional chilaquiles you see most often,” Ramos said. “My sister, the chef, is very creative and has a way of presenting that is unique and beautiful.”
Ramos added the eatery’s made-from-scratch delights include salsas, tortillas, tamales and sweets like orange muffins, granola muffins, empanadas, flan and chocolate cake.
Vida Mia is known for specialties. Customer favorites include campechana (sliced pork and beefsteak with Oaxaca cheese); sopes (layered with beans, pulled chicken and Picadillo with green salsa and cheese); huaraches (thick, oblong doughy tortillas topped with Mexican cream and queso fresco, plus other toppings); and molletes (crusty, baked baguettes covered with refried beans, Jack cheese and either chorizo, rajas or crispy bacon).
Lunch specials are off-the-menu items that change often. If a lunch dish
Vida Mia opens second, larger North Side location
In April 2011, the Ramos family launched the first Vida Mia Mexican Cuisine
in Stone Oak, quickly followed by accolades and waiting lists.
is popular enough, it may become part of the everyday menu.
Hours are 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 7 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Sunday through Thursday hours will increase when the bar opens.
VIDA MIA MEXICAN CUISINE22250 Bulverde Road, Suite 114For more, call 490-2013 or
visit www.vidamiacuisine.com
The new Vida Mia Mexican Cuisine (far left) offers a variety of dishes, including muffins and pastries, tortilla soup and Vida Mia chilaquiles. Photos by Collette Orquiz
