J A N U A R Y 2 0 0 9

V O L . 2 6 . I S S U E 1
SCHERT T A L E S
PUBLISHERS&MORE

PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY THE

Schertz Media Relations Office
Brad E. Bailey Director, Media Relations, Publisher

Nicole Ochoa Editor/Sales Director

Alexis Souza Creative Director

JA
Michele Kelso Copy Editor

Contributing Writers
Brad E. Bailey, Nicole Ochoa, Madge Rashell,
Mario Ochoa, Rudy Arispe, John Cedio
Photographers
8
Andre Bullard, Eduardo Romero, and Brad E. Bailey
ROY JR.:
Schertz Tales is published monthly by the Media Relations Department of
the City of Schertz. Our mailing address is 1400 Schertz Parkway, Schertz, A LEGACY OF
Texas 78154. The official publication of the City of Schertz promotes city,
community, and business activities associated with the City.
LEADERSHIP
Roy W. Richard Jr. takes on
© City of Schertz, Texas.
many influential roles in the
The editorial office of Schertz Tales is at 1400 Schertz Parkway, Schertz, community. His father, the sec-
Texas 78154. Call 210-619-1060. ond Mayor of Schertz, paved a
Fax 210-619-1069. Website www.schertz.com strong example of leadership in
which Roy Jr. has taken to the
next level in his commitment to
the City of Schertz.

14
Send queries about articles or photographs to Schertz Tales is at
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Schertz Tales encourages submission of news and event
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The appearance of advertising in this publication does not constitute
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Articles that appear in Schertz Tales do not necessarily reflect the
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Assistant City Manager express permission and written consent of the City of Schertz.
ANUARY‘09
DEPARTMENTZ
FEATUREZ
10 12
WILENCHIK:
THE COURAGE
TO LIVE
Wilenchik’s Walk for Life
is in honor of city council-
man, Tony Wilenchik, who
demonstrates a promise to
his community as he battles
courageously through a
difficult and life-threatening
disease.
17
LOVE TO
SWIM
The grand opening of Love
to Swim and Tumble School
will take place early this
month, where owner and
local resident, Mary Reilly-
Magee will open their doors
to kids from ages 6 months
to 99 years old.
10
7 Editor’s Letter
FOUTY
TRIBUTE 16 Fitness for the New Year
Byron Fouty holds a spe-
cial place in all our hearts.
As one of the thousands
whose life was taken in the 20 Mortgage: Get a Tax Break!
war on Iraq, this is a tribute
to a young man whose
22 Talk of the Town
bravery and kindness will
forever be remembered.
26 Government Round-Up
19
BALDWIN 30 Marketplace
SCHOLARSHIP
High school students will
35 Sweethearts Bio
now have the opportunity to
compete for The Hal Bald-
win Municipal Government
Scholarship, named after
the Mayor for his dedication
and service to the com-
munity.
12 14 17 19

EDITOR
I
It’s a brand new year. A time,
in which, I’ve made peace with
the past through reflection and
resolution, and now embark
on new beginnings and greater
opportunities in 2009. With the
onset of another year for which
to learn and grow both personally
and professionally, I set out to find
those people whose influence and
tenacity speak volumes about
character and truth. We’ve chosen
to spotlight many special individuals
in Schertz who are great examples
of what we should each aspire for.
The attributes of successful men
and women encompass a diverse
portfolio of qualities for which stand
out amongst a crowd.
This year I challenge each of our
readers to travel beyond your
destination, revel in the moment to
be the very best you can achieve,
in work, at home and in the
relationships you build with those
around you.
The examples of individual traits
I aspire to model after are within
each of the people we feature in this
months issue. Roy W. Richard Jr.
is the ultimate personification of a
leader. In the history of his family’s
devotion and vision for the City of
L E T T E R
Schertz, Roy Jr. continues to serve
I’m sure you’ve heard of Wilenchik’s
Walk for Life. His determination and
will to live as he battles cancer is an
uplifting and heart wrenching story of
a man this city loves and admires. Of
all the challenges we face on earth,
the community with a clear mission for strong city it is. We only exist because
the future.
Tony remains optimistic as he accepts as well. We’re moving online. Find us at
his fate fighting, making every day
count.
A Tribute to Byron Fouty, a young
19–year old soldier who died while
on duty in Iraq will always carry an
important place in our hearts. His
example of honor and duty at such
a young age exemplifies the true
sacrifice of one human being for
another.
As a new year begins, I want to
emphasize to all our readers,
advertisers, and those who support
our publication: “We could not
do this without you!” Our goal at
Schertz Magazine is to inform our
readers about what is taking place
in our local government and within
the city, improving the quality of life crowd. Smile and feel confident. Live in the
for each of our residents. We are
this community’s magazine, here to
showcase the people and places that
Nicole Ochoa
Editor
F R O M T H E
make Schertz the wonderful, economically
of our advertisers and keen community
support.
There is tremendous growth in the city,
with residential communities sprouting
throughout the area, businesses moving in
and expanding, as many new residents call
Schertz “home.” The magazine is growing
www.schertzmagazine.com. You’ll find
more stories of interest with an assortment
of photos, information and 24-hour
interaction. It’s 2009 and an exciting time
for Schertz Magazine.
g
b y s u pportin
join us
Please zine and the tz!
ga er
the ma ul City of Sch
rf
wonde
We’ve filled this month’s issue with articles
to educate and inspire you. It’s a new year.
Take advantage of the great opportunities
that lie ahead. Allow 2009 to be a
beacon of hope towards advancement
and enlightenment. As we each travel
our individual paths in life, sketch a bold
statement of who you are, display it to the
world. Don’t be afraid to be noticed in a
moment, for within every moment, there is
meaning, there is truth…there is YOU!
JANUARY 2009 7
SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM
A Legacy of Leadership
Judge Roy W. Richard Jr.
A
BY NICOLE OCHOA
PHOTOGRAPHY
BY
EDUARDO ROMERO
Every family has a story to tell;
a story that contributes to a greater
good and demonstrates a profound
truth of how one man can influence
a generation of people. The Richard
Family of Schertz inspires the efforts
and foresight of a family who took
the initiative to promote a city and its
people to greater prosperity.
A Father’s Influence
In 1950, a man named
Roy W. Richard Sr. opened
a small dental office on
Main Street in the quaint
town of Schertz. For forty
years, he was known as
the city’s local dentist. Roy
Sr. believed passionately
in serving the people, and
he had a solid plan in mind
that went beyond his role
as solely a member of the
community. The vision
and leadership of Roy Sr.
led him to become Mayor
Richard in 1960 when
he was elected as the
second Mayor of Schertz.
Mayor Richard Sr. held his
position until 1972 when
he resigned to become the
majority owner of what is
now, Schertz Bank & Trust.
However, he remained
very active in the local
political arena.
The act of Mayor Richard’s
tenacity and promise to
promoting the future of the
city inspired not only the
people around him, but
it changed the dynamics
of his own family; in
particular, his son, Roy
Richard Jr., named after
him. Their relationship
was one built on a strong
foundation of closeness.
“He was my personal
hero,” says Roy Jr. “At
the time, the single most
important person in my
life.”
The Next Generation
Today, Judge Roy W. Richard Jr.,
a Justice of the Peace in Precinct
3, demonstrates his father’s same
loyalty and commitment to the
community as he strives to create
a better place for residents and
the city’s youth. Judge Richard
was born in San Antonio, but
spent his entire life in Schertz.
After graduating from what is
currently Clemens High School,
Judge Richard went on to Baylor
University and graduated from
Law School.
“I always had an interest in
history and politics,” he shares.
In 1976, Judge Richard became
the hearings examiner for State
Comptroller Bob Bullock. In
the years following, he pursued
private practice. His role in
the community extends to
many areas including lawyer,
Justice of the Peace, Economic
Development Board Member and
owner of Schertz Bank & Trust.
A Legacy of Leadership
Judge Richard is the second
generation of a political
prowess that leads Schertz into
a new frontier of possibilities. Of
the many roles Judge Richard
takes on in the community, he
parlays his expertise as Director
on the Schertz Economic
Development Corporation. “We
have a wide variety of ongoing
projects with new businesses
coming to our area,” he
remarks. “However, our goal
is to see the money we invest
returned many times over in the
best interest of the people.” As
a Judge, he’s been increasingly
involved with the school district,
handling all truancy cases and
disorderly conduct. He hopes
that through the court system,
he’s able to encourage these
individuals to correct their
behavior in a fair and firm way.
“My greatest reward is to see
these kids become productive
Making Significant Strides
Judge Richard was sworn in as
Justice of the Peace on January
1, 2003. Under the Justice of
the Peace court, his jurisdiction
oversees all fine-only criminal
cases, Justice and small
claims; however, the amount
of controversy cannot exceed
$10,000. If there is one thing any
person who walks into Judge
Richard’s court can expect,
it’s consistency. “We make
sure everyone understands
the procedures of the court
from the beginning so there
aren’t any misunderstandings,”
he explains. Judge Richard’s
court presides over both civil
and criminal cases. However,
he allows a pre-trial procedure
beforehand to help those
individuals who want to contest
their case to see if it can be
resolved without the cost of
going to trial.
Like his father, Judge Richard
exhibits both authority and
initiative as he sets out to
make substantial changes for
members of society,” he says.
Judge Richard co-chaired
the last three facility advisory
committees to assess the facility
needs of the district. “One of
the greatest investments a
community can make is in its
children,” he imparts.
Outside of the office, Judge
Richard enjoys spending time
with family and friends. “It’s a
very good life,” he remarks. All
of his children are graduates of
SCUCISD and currently attend
college. His eldest daughter
recently graduated from St.
Mary’s Law School.
As for the future, Judge
Richard’s hope is to aid in a
solid economic path for the
residents of Schertz that is built
on prosperity and continuous
growth. As he reflects on past
memories spent with his father,
he shares the joy of the two
playing golf. Fishing at the
the betterment of Schertz.
Over the years, Judge Richard
watched his father advocate
for city improvements that
would change the dynamics of
Schertz both economically and
financially. “My father began our
great path to solid economic
growth and every Mayor since
has built and improved the
foundation he established,”
says Judge Richard. The former
Mayor’s belief that local people
should profit from within their
own community led him to
acquire Schertz Bank & Trust.
“My father wanted to take funds
and put them back into the
city’s schools and organizations
to promote the city and the
quality of life for our residents,”
he asserts. Judge Richard now
takes over his father’s position
as owner of the bank. In
addition to acquiring the bank,
his father purchased a water
well site in Garden Ridge in the
1960’s, ensuring a good supply
of water for the future. Today,
FM 3009 is named after Roy W.
Richard Sr., who sadly passed
away February 1, 1990.
coast was one of their favorite
getaways. “My dad gave me a lot
of freedoms in my life,” he says. “I
didn’t ever want to let him down.”
Which is perhaps the reason he’s
spent a significant part of his life
serving others, just like his father.
The Richard family represents not
only how one family can make
a difference through hard work,
fortitude and determination; but
demonstrates how the act of
one person can inspire others
to reach above and beyond for
the people and place closest
to their heart. “I tell my children
what my dad once told me: you
only get out of something what
you put into it,” he says. “From
my father’s efforts and through
the continuity of great leaders we
have today, I continue to focus
all my energy toward establishing
and maintaining a good quality of
life for all of our citizens.”
WILENCHIK’S WALK FOR LIFE
The Courage to Live:
City Councilman Tony Wilenchik
T
There are moments in the
course of a lifetime when
we are forced to face the
unimaginable. An unexpected
turn of events can cause
upheaval to the normalcy of our
day-to-day lives, leaving with
it a question which one cannot
deny asking: why me? Those
are two words Schertz City
Councilman Tony Wilenchik
refuses to ask but, nonetheless,
are inescapable. For those who
love him, those who respect
him, admire his work, his
tenacity and will to live, one
cannot help but wonder, WHY?
Tony Wilenchik, also known
as an experienced and avid
marathon runner, has lived a
healthy, active lifestyle for more
than forty years. He’s run forty-
three marathons, participated in
the Boston marathon four times
and even ventured through
fifty mile races. But in June
2006, his life took a terrible turn
when doctors diagnosed him
with Stage-4 Leiomyosarcoma
BY NICOLE OCHOA
PHOTOGRAPHY
BY ANDRE BULLARD
cancer. He was told he only
had six to nine months to
live.
Almost two and a half
years later, Tony continues
on the fight of his life. In
the community, he serves
as an active member of
city council. He extends
his support to various
organizations educating
and advocating for cancer
research, giving of his time
and effort to his family and
friends and to the people
of Schertz, exhibiting a
true commitment to his
community and radiating a
fervor for life that inspires all
those around him. That’s why
the City of Schertz dedicates
this year’s newly inaugurated
annual cancer walk as
Wilenchik’s Walk for Life.
THE DAY THAT
CHANGED
EVERYTHING
Originally from New Jersey,
Tony spent a
significant amount of
time traveling before
making his home
in Texas. He joined
the Air Force over
forty years ago. While
stationed in Norway, he
met his wife of thirty-one
years, Valerie, who is from
England. They first came
to the San Antonio area in
1984 and, eight years later,
decided to move back to
Converse before making
their home in Schertz. After
retiring from the Air Force
in December of 1998, Tony
joined USAA. He worked
in life insurance and later
transitioned into banking
where he became a
Certified Financial Planner.
But, in 2006, everything
he’d known, suddenly took
a dramatic turn. Tony went
into the hospital for hernia
surgery. Within a couple
of days, he felt extreme
nausea and discomfort.
Doctors performed a CAT
Scan only to realize he
had stage-4 cancer found
outside the colon wall. No
other tests had revealed it
before. “It was metastatic
to the liver,” he says. “It’s
a rare cancer only found
in about nine percent of
cancers.”
Tony was left with little hope
as doctors informed him
it was non-operable and
chemo-resistant. “It was a
shock to me,” admits Tony.
“I was 170 pounds, in good
shape and healthy. I couldn’t
believe this was happening.”
There was only one
possible alternative.
He began conventional
chemotherapies. Over the
course of time, some of
the therapies worked, one
showed progress for about
eighteen weeks, while
others proved unsuccessful.
He was later referred to
the Cancer Treatment
and Research Center in
San Antonio to begin new
Phase-1 experimental
treatments. For thirty-two
weeks, the tumors began
shrinking and stabilized. In
December 2007, progress
stopped and the treatments
discontinued. After that
time, he’s undergone three
other experimental programs
that either didn’t work at all
or only showed potential for
a brief period.
Tony will soon begin the fifth
experimental chemotherapy.
“It’s difficult,” he admits
as he must patiently wait
to hear every six weeks
whether or not the tumors
are shrinking. “I’ve been
“...you
can’t give
up hope.”
able to tolerate it well
physically. But my tumors are
definitely growing,” he adds.
Up to now, doctors have
removed nine tumors from
his body. Oddly enough, he’d
only begun with five. “Tumors
pop up all over the body,” he
explains. “The ones that are
removed are done so if they
affect my quality of life.”
The root of Tony’s illness
was found to possibly be
from a toxin he may have
encountered almost forty
years ago while stationed at a
base in Vietnam. “I may have
had some kind of contact with
the herbicide, Agent Orange,”
he describes. His illness
has been determined 100%
service-connected.
It’s been two years and the
cancer continues to progress.
“The only thing that’s going
to save me is some kind of
chemotherapy to shrink or kill
the tumors,” says Tony. “They
say it’s just a matter of time
now unless they can come up
with a cure.”
A WILL TO SURVIVE
“You live life and at the time,
you don’t realize all the people
whose lives you’ve touched,”
says Tony. “When I got sick
it was astounding to my wife
and I how many people from
all over responded, called
and prayed for me. That was
tremendous. None of this has
been easy for us, but their
support has made it a lot
more bearable.”
In 2001, Tony was appointed
to city council in order to fill an
unexpired position. Since that
time, he has been re-elected
three more times; in 2003,
2005, and 2007.
“I’ve become great friends
with Don Taylor,” he shares.
“He visited me everyday in the
hospital when I was sick.”
After realizing the immensity
of his illness, Tony had to slow
down. He gave up many of his
active roles in the community
except for his position on the
city council. “I started out by
helping with city projects. I’m
here everyday as a volunteer it won’t stop Tony from Insist on answers to your
doing something meaningful being there to support and questions on the availability
for my community, which is raise awareness. “Without of new medicines. Stay active
very important to me.” research, I wouldn’t be alive mentally and physically. Don’t
today,” he shares. “Cancer give up hope and always
As a member of the city research helps keep people believe in God,” he shares.
council, Tony acknowledges alive longer. I’m a walking Tony’s uplifting message
all the work they’ve billboard.” speaks of his strong will and
accomplished as a collective audacious spirit to overcome.
effort. “I’m proud of the As his story continues to In his own testament to
way we’ve handled growth inspire countless others, survive, he will forever lift the
in the city, both residential Tony remains an optimistic hearts and minds of those
and commercial, while voice for those struggling who have had the privilege to
maintaining a quality with the same heartache know him.
of life and a robust tax he and his family have
base to support our had to find the courage
services,” he says. Tony to fight through. “I would
recently celebrated seven tell someone like me,
years on the council this you can’t give up hope.
past December; by far, You need to be proactive
longer than any other on the Internet. Educate
councilperson. “I’m no yourself. Talk to your doctor.
different than any other city Learn more about
member,” he emphasizes.
“I’m just more aware of what the Wilenchik Walk
goes on because of my daily
involvement.” for Life on Page 24!!
Today, Tony continues to
stay active in a number of
roles. As a veteran, he joined
the board of Operation
Homefront. After working
as a Financial Advisor for
several years, Tony now
teaches the Dave Ramsey
Financial Course to city
employees, their families,
and anyone else who
wants to learn.
“The city has given me
a place to be when
I had nothing,” he
says. “My goal is
to give back to
the city and to
the people. I
know I will.
I’m living it
now. I want
to continue
to help
people and
serve others.”
A MESSAGE OF
HOPE
Tony hopes to be strong
enough to walk with his
fellow friends, family and
the community at the 1st
Annual Wilenchik’s Walk
for Life, but as he notes,
being in a perpetual
state of anemia may
prohibit that. However,
 A Tribute to
BYRON FOUTY
BY RUDY ARISPE
Twelve hours after he was
born on April 17, 1988,
Byron Fouty was wheeled
into his mother’s hospital
room with a sign that
read, “Feed on Demand.”
A nurse then winked at
Hilary Meunier and said,
“You’re going to have your
hands full.”
Meunier certainly did,
recalling that at an early
age Fouty already had
developed a stubborn
streak and independent
spirit while growing up in
Walled Lake, Michigan,
that would eventually lead
to his decision to join the
Army to serve his country
while fighting in Iraq.
“The first time I tried to
punish him at age 5, he
climbed out the window
and tried to run away, but
I stopped him,” Meunier
said from her home on
Oak Street surrounded
by mementos of her
son’s young life: Fouty’s
official Army portrait, the
folded American flag that
draped his coffin, and
several medals that lay
12 JANUARY 2009
SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM
on a coffee table to show a
visitor, a War on Terrorism
Service Medal, Prisoner of
War Medal, the Bronze Star,
and the Purple Heart.
Spc. Fouty, 19, and two
other American soldiers
were reported missing for
more than a year after their
unit was ambushed on May
12, 2007, near Baghdad.
His body was found July 9,
2008, along with Sgt. Alex
Jimenez, 25, of Lawrence,
Massachusetts, buried in a
grave in the Iraqi village of
Jurf as Sakhr.
The day after Fouty
– attached to Company D,
4th Battalion, 31st Infantry
Regiment – was kidnapped,
the Army sent two military
personnel to Meunier’s
home, when she was living
in San Marcos, to deliver the
bad news.
“I was notified on Mother’s
Day,” the 45-year-old
Schertz resident said. “I
saw them walk across the
grass, and my heart just
sank. I thought he was
dead. They told me he had
been captured, and I was just
devastated.”
Meunier said that for more
than a year and a half she
cried and prayed that her
first-born child and only son
would be found. “I worried
that he was injured and not
receiving medical attention,”
she said.
But as each day passed and
months turned into a year,
Meunier slowly began to
resign herself to the possibility
that Fouty might be dead. Her
fears were confirmed when
on July 10, an Army chaplain
and another military official
returned to her home to
confirm his death.
“I had believed for some
time that he didn’t make it
because of who they were
captured by, and there were
no POW camps,” she said. “I
had prepared myself for this.
It’s a horrible feeling, and
I’m sad of the outcome, but
there’s some relief knowing
he’s back on American soil.
And he’s buried near me, so
I can visit his grave. I know
he’s in a better place.”
Although she said she
misses her son terribly,
Meunier believes his spirit
is still with her, and while
reminiscing about his life,
she told of the time when
at age 6, Fouty wanted to
show off for a girl, so he
decided to jump off a jungle
gym thinking the snow
would break his fall. He
broke his leg instead.
Fouty, she recounted,
enjoyed outings to the
lake in Oxford, Michigan,
and spent his spare time
away from school playing
football, skateboarding,
 snowboarding, After enlisting in the Army in
and hockey. September 2006, Fouty was
He also was a deployed to Iraq in January
die-hard Detroit 2007.
Red Wings fan
and was a wizard “I noticed how his eyes
at playing video shined after he found some
games. happiness and purpose,”
his sister, Sarah Anne Dibler,
Meunier also told a Michigan newspaper
recalled that Fouty, who following a July 22 memorial
possessed a great sense service in Novi. “I know he’s
of humor, could walk into a watching over us with the
crowd of strangers and return same gleam in his eye.”
home, having made several
new friends. He also enjoyed a It was Fouty’s intention,
good nap. “I used to joke that Meunier said, to re-enlist in
he could sleep standing up,” the Army to become a medic
his mother said. after his tour of duty in Iraq.

Shortly after dropping out Fouty never got the chance.

of Walled Lake Central High He was buried July 25 at
School, Fouty told his family Fort Sam Houston National
he wanted to enlist in the
Army. “I took him to the
recruiter’s office,” Meunier
Cemetery.
“I noticed
said. “He wanted to go into
the infantry and fight. I begged
him to do anything but the how his
eyes shined...”
infantry, but he was bound
and determined to fight (in
Iraq). With his IQ, he could
have chosen any field in the
military.”
 A Taste
Like No
Other: BIG
PAPA’S
PIZZERIA
BY NICOLE OCHOA
Step inside the cozy, sports-
centered pizzeria in Schertz,
Texas. They’re known for
their Hawaiian style pizza and
eclectic sports-centered venue.
Upon entering, a friendly staff
member greets you; perhaps,
it’s the owner, Guthrie himself,
who welcomes you inside and
asks you to sit down. Whether
you just came in for a quick
bite during lunch hour or its
sports night with a group of
friends, this local Schertz
hang-out makes superior
service their priority and; not to
mention, it’s where you’ll find
some of the best pizza around.
Pizza in the Making
Growing up in Makaha,
Hawaii, a small town on the
southernmost part of Oahu,
cooking became Guthrie’s
passion. He attended culinary
14
“...but everything we d
JANUARY 2009
SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM
school and spent years as a
cook for high-end restaurants
and resorts in San Francisco
and Naples, Florida where he
worked as a Sous Chef for
three years. After spending
many years traveling, Guthrie
wanted to make a more
permanent move to a place
he could call home. He
remembered visiting San
Antonio as a child. “It was a
comfortable little city,” Guthrie
reflects. I knew it would be a
great place to live.” After a year
in San Antonio, Guthrie and his
wife, Adriana who is from Brazil,
agreed to move a little farther
from the city, and Schertz
possessed a certain aura of
familiarity to his hometown in
Hawaii.
Guthrie bought the restaurant,
originally named Tailgaters,
in December 2007. He’d
also possessed a passion
for cooking as he grew
up preparing multi-ethnic
foods from Hawaii and the
Philippines. “I’m a simple
cook with a few tricks up my
sleeve,” he says.
“Hawaiian Style” recipes and
scrumptious pizzas have
become the restaurant’s
staple. “You don’t ever want to
re-invent the wheel,” he says.
“We have a smaller menu, but
everything we do, we do really
well.”
Currently, the interior of Big
Papa’s reflects more of a
restaurant quality; however,
Guthrie is in the process of
integrating new apparatus that
will create a sports bar feel
and atmosphere with multiple
televisions, games, darts, golf,
and an Internet jukebox.
On Wednesday nights,
patrons enjoy bowling
night. “Everyone comes
in ready to play with their
bowling shirts on,” he
says. The non-smoking
restaurant caters to a
highly sports oriented
demographic. Walking
in, patrons notice an
assortment of sport jerseys
pinned on the walls. “All of
our jerseys are donated,”
says Guthrie.
In the restaurant, he
showcases an array of hot
sauces he’s collected from
around the world. “This
has become Schertz’s little
hang-out,” he says proudly.
Big Papa’s Pizza
For Guthrie, consistency
has been key to his
success. From a menu
of scrumptious and tempting
specialty pizzas, mouth-
watering appetizers, and more,
customers enjoy a variety of
favorites including the Big
Kahuna and The Epic pizzas.
The Mango Chipotle rings are a
“must-have” appetizer. Some of
the ingredients in high demand
include Portuguese sausage,
that isn’t typically found in
Texas. “I have it specially
delivered from Hawaii,” says
Guthrie. Or the luau style Kalua
pork “It’s cooked slowly for
fourteen hours in the oven,
which gives it an amazing flavor
when added to our pizza.”
He grows fresh basil in the back
of the restaurant to which he
adds to another favorite pizza
called Summer Delight that
includes fresh tomato and basil,
ricotta and ham. Have you seen
Big Papa’s pizza cruiser driving
do, we do really well.”
by to deliver an appetizing
pizza to your neighbor’s
doorstep? The pizzeria offers
free, full service delivery to
Schertz residents.
“I love cooking,” emphasizes
Guthrie. But while most of his
experience has been cooking
in the back of the house, he
says he enjoys a different
perspective running the entire
operation. “You must have a
passion to do this. I’m here
thirteen hours a day, seven
days a week. It’s truly a labor
of love.”
Costs are reasonably and
competitively priced. The Epic
which includes an abundance
of delicious toppings like
pepperoni, ham, pineapple
and jalapenos ranges from
only $7.99 for a 10-inch pizza
to $17.99 for an enormous
18-inch made to satisfy the
entire family. “My customer
base is extremely loyal,”
he notes. “It’s all repeat
business. We’ve never had a
complaint.” While he doesn’t
boast about the success
of his business, many
accolades are expressed
from those around him.
However, he doesn’t hesitate
to show how proud he is
of what he’s accomplished
with the help and support
of so many others. “I have
employees who are all
dedicated workers and who
I couldn’t manage all of this
without,” he says. “There is a
trust we’ve built as a team.”
In response to expanding
the restaurant to multiple
locations, Guthrie says he’d
eventually like to. However,
only opening his doors
roughly one year ago, all his
concentration is focused
here. “I wouldn’t sacrifice
what I have right now,” he
says.
Come On In
The pizzeria provides an
intimate atmosphere with a
friendly staff that welcomes
you in, asks you to sit
down and takes your order.
There’s never a rush, they
simply want you to make
yourself at home and enjoy
the atmosphere and flavors
of Big Papa’s Pizza.
Big Papa’s is located at
1420 Schertz Pkwy, Schertz,
TX 78154. The pizzeria is
open daily from 11am-10pm.
Daily happy hours are from
3pm to 7 pm. To contact Big
Papa’s call (210) 566-6464.
JANUARY 2009
SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM
15
 BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
Holidays – The Aftermath:
It’s Your Life, Live It Fit!
The Holiday celebrations are over, but the question everyone must ask
themselves is how can we recover from the weight gain and stress that
ultimately comes with it?
According to the American Heart Association, the
average American gains between 5-8 lbs over the
holiday season. One of the best parts of the holidays
is all the delicious food we indulge in, but what people
don’t realize is the extra pounds and inches gained can
be reversed! You’re probably thinking, “great, where
were you a month ago,” but as I always say, “better late
than never!”
Cleaning up your diet should be goal number one,
and here are a few helpful tips to get you on the
right track:
1. PORTION CONTROL. The first thing to
remember is it’s not so much what you eat, but
how much of it you eat. Portions are a major
factor in determining just how your body digests,
stores, and utilizes what you put into it.
2. PACE YOURSELF. Slow down when eating,
and encourage children to do the same. Your
body will have a better chance of letting you know
you’ve had enough.
3. EAT SMALL, MORE OFTEN. Several small
meals are much better than two large ones where
you are so hungry you overeat!
4. SNACK SMART. Stock your shelves with
healthy options like fruits, vegetables, and
nuts for snacking! You can’t eat junk if it’s
not there!
Workout facilities like Anytime Fitness, located at 3820 FM
3009, can help you achieve your fitness goals and get you
on the right path to living fit. Their staff of certified personal
trainers will meet with you to assess your strengths and
weaknesses, and introduce you to the state of the art
The added stress associated with hectic schedules
and financial worries during the holidays also
contributes to excess weight gain. We can all agree
mental health is as important as physical health, but
often we neglect both!
1. REST. Getting more sleep is crucial to your
energy levels, and will help you be more productive
both at home and at work.
2. VITAMINS. It’s sometimes difficult to get your
daily recommended dosage of vitamins and
minerals in your diet, so be sure to take a daily
vitamin with antioxidants.
3. TALK ABOUT IT. Don’t keep your feelings locked
up! Talk to a family member, friend, pastor, or even
seek professional assistance if needed.
While these helpful tips can help you bounce back after the
holiday season, there is another other way to help with both of
these issues for maximum benefit. Exercise is about movement
designed to increase lean muscle, improve your cardiovascular
health, and strengthen bones, joints, and muscles. By
accomplishing these things you’re able to burn the calories
needed to keep off unwanted inches and pounds, while
lowering your stress levels!
equipment they have on hand. This year Anytime Fitness clients
have lost a combined 172 inches! And, for a limited time only,
mention this article and join Anytime Fitness with NO enrollment
fee! What do you have to lose, except maybe a few inches?
Happy New Year!
- John Cedio – GM/CPT

Schertz Grand Opening:
Love to Swim and Tumble School
Do you love to swim? Most
people might feel a bit
intimidated by the athleticism
of a professional swimmer,
while others profess a lifelong
fear or simply say it’s just
too hard. Everyone has their
own story from children to
adults. However, swimming
may be one of the most
glorifying expressions of
physical labor, as it is both
challenging and rewarding
on many levels. A baby can
exercise more muscles in
the water, and improve their
coordination and balance. For
a child, they build confidence
as well as both physical
and mental endurance. An
adult can overcome fear,
train for a triathlon, and get
a great workout. Perhaps
most importantly, for those
of any age, from infants to
the elderly, being able to
swim can save your life or
someone else’s. Regardless
of individual goals, swimming
is a wonderful way to exercise
the entire body while gaining
confidence, stamina and
control that can, in turn,
benefit every facet of your life.
This month, Love to Swim
and Tumble School opens a
brand new location in Schertz.
Their original location is in
San Antonio where they have
been since January 2006.
Swimmers range from 6
months old to 99 years of age.
Love to Swim and Tumble
School has one defining goal:
To create life-long masterful
swimmers. However, to
accomplish this feat “it takes
consistent swimming,” says
Mary Reilly-Magee, owner
and founder. “We define
a swimmer as having the
ability to swim three-hundred
yards continuously.”
As an accomplished,
competitive swimmer, coach,
teacher and lifeguard, Mary’s
passion for swimming has
successfully translated to the
people they serve. It seemed
a natural progression to open
a new location, in a city that
holds a special place in her
heart. Mary is now thrilled to
expand the school into her
own community of Schertz,
where she resides with her
husband and two children.
“We’ve received such a
positive response from the
city,” says Mary. “People
have been calling to sign
up and ready to join. It’s
wonderful.”
One of the main reasons
Mary has devoted so
much time and energy to
developing the school and
promoting swimming in the
area, is because she says
they are in the business
of impacting the drowning
statistic. “The majority
of drowning deaths are
preventable,” she says. “We
need to educate people to
learn to really swim,” she
advocates. “It broadens what
they can do in their life.”
Mary admits lots of people
want to learn to swim, but
there is a fear. “Swimming
is hard,” she says. “People
underestimate it.” However,
while it may pose its own set
of challenges for adults, it is
attainable. “We want to help
people learn to swim well,”
Love to Swim and Tumble School opens January 5, 2009
at 6044 FM 3009, Ste 285, Schertz, TX 78154. For more
information call 210-566-4096 or visit www.love-to-swim.com.
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
emphasizes Mary. What
does that mean? As she
denotes, it’s swimming for
fitness, perhaps to participate
in a triathlon, preparing to
take a trip to the Caribbean,
or being with friends at a
swimming pool. “Having
taught adults gives me a
great perspective on what to
do with children,” she adds.
When teaching children, Mary
notes that kids respond to
swimming similar to their
parents. “When parents have
fear, the kids have fear.”
For children, there is
tremendous value in the art
of swimming, but Mary tells
parents to stay supportive
throughout the children’s
learning. “Kids plateau in
their learning,” she explains.
“Parents have an expectation
of consistent advancement,
but it’s an educational
progression. Kids overcome,
master skills and move on.”
That’s why having consistent
exposure over time is so
important to the curriculum
Mary and her team have
developed for the student’s
learning.
Another component to
the school includes a gym
area directed by Elaine
Bangert, Program Director,
who possesses over
30 years of gymnastics
coaching experience. The
Tumble School is designed
for children engaging in
gymnastics, while developing
physical and social skills.
There are Rolli Pollie classes
for children 18 months to 36
months of age. For kids’ ages
3 to 8 years old, there are a
variety of classes including
gymnastics, non-competitive
games and team work, sports
preparation, cheerleading and
more.
Parents have the convenience
of watching their children
through glass windows
simultaneously in the pool
and gym areas. Boys can
elect to participate in Rough
and Tumble, which is a sports
preparatory class for boys
ages 5 to 8 years old.
All of the staff and coaches
undergo extensive training
in multi-areas of teaching.
They unite together with
a common vision for the
community, utilizing their skills
and experience to inspire
their students to achieve their
goals, both as swimmers and
as individuals. Not only is
Love to Swim a place where
people come to learn, but to
make new friends, enriching
one’s life in a supportive
environment that challenges
you to reach new goals, and
helps you take the steps you
need to attain them. “It takes
courage. It takes believing in
yourself,” shares Mary. “When
someone goes from saying
‘I can’t’ to ‘I can.’ That’s the
greatest accomplishment.”
JANUARY 2009 17
SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM
 Congratulations!
Darla Vosburg is the
winner of the ‘Find
the Plane’ contest in
the December 2008
issue of Schertz
Tales Magazine.
Brad Bailey,
City of Schertz
Media Relations
Director, presents
a Bellacino’s gift
certificate at the
restaurant. Ms.
Vosburg was the
25th respondent to
correctly identify
the advertisement
‘hiding’ the plane.

Look for this

HIDDEN Schertz
plane in one
advertisement
Schertz Tales Magazine
somewhere in every
issue of Schertz ‘Find the Plane’ Winner
Tales. Be the 25th
person to email
events@schertz.
com and win!

18 JANUARY 2009
SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM

I
It is hard to imagine that 50 years
have passed since the City of
Schertz was incorporated. And,
while he hasn’t been here since
the beginning, Schertz Mayor Hal
Baldwin and his wife Barbara have
called Schertz home for more than
forty years.
Since relocating to Schertz in the
late 1960s, Baldwin has witnessed
a sleepy town of less than 5,000
residents grow into San Antonio’s
largest suburb. During that period
of rapid transformation, the retired
Air Force Senior Master Sergeant
has been present for the booms
and the busts, as well as the good
and the bad. In May 2008, Baldwin
entered his 15th year as Mayor
when he was reelected to office
with over 80 percent of the vote
and in the process he became
the longest serving Mayor in the
region.
In recognition of the mayor’s
service to the community as
well as his work in both city and
school government, Schertz City
Manager Don Taylor unveiled
the Hal Baldwin Municipal
Government Scholarship program
following a city council meeting on
November 18, 2008. Surrounded
by four generations of Baldwins,
as well as current and former
City of Schertz employees,
management, and council
members, Taylor read through the
Mayor’s accomplishments and
explained to the audience that “the
scholarship was established to
be an annual essay and interview
competition with the expressed
purpose of motivating students
Scholarship
to pursue leadership roles in civic
Named in
government.”
Taylor further described Baldwin’s
Honor of
career in the Air Force, his
work with Urban Renewal, Schertz
his time as Tax Assessor, as
SCUCISD business manager,
as a city council member, and
Mayor
ultimately as mayor. “Under his
leadership, the City has nearly
doubled in size and continues
Hal Baldwin
to develop economically and
financially,” said Taylor. “The Mayor
has dedicated his life to Schertz
and he epitomizes public service.”
According to council member Tony
Wilenchik who helped establish the
program, the $1,000.00 scholarship
provides a vehicle for rewarding
scholastic excellence and honors
Mayor Hal Baldwin, “a great by the application deadline. The board
American who has dedicated over will judge the essays and select the
35-years of his life to municipal top three applicants to be interviewed.
government.” Final selection of the scholarship
recipient will be made in May with the
The annual contest is open to award being presented at the student’s
any City of Schertz high school graduation ceremony or at another
senior either enrolled in an appropriate location.
accredited high school or being
home schooled who is currently Following announcement of the
in a civic/government class or scholarship program, the usually
being taught about government. jovial Baldwin was nearly speechless.
Brad Gildea, Special Projects Surrounded by his wife Barbara and
Director for Schertz, said that most of his family, he thanked the men
every fall an essay topic will be and women who helped Schertz literally
selected by a three member “make the map.”
scholarship board. Schools will
be notified and the information More information about the Hal Baldwin
about the program will be posted Municipal Scholarship program is
at various city offices. Participants forthcoming and will be available at
must then submit an essay and www.schertz.com. To view photos
a nominating letter from their of the scholarship program kick-off
civic/government teacher or their ceremony, visit us at
parent if they are home schooled www.schertzmagazine.com.
BY BRAD E. BAILEY
JANUARY 2009 19
SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM
P PROPERTY TAX
ADVANTAGE
If you purchased a home to live
in as your primary residence, it
is considered your ‘homestead”
in the State of Texas. You get
a property tax reduction on one
home you own - the home that
they label as their “homestead.”
Just register the home as your
homestead with the county
appraisal district and apply for
the homestead tax exemption.
The appraisal district serves
all the taxing authorities - city,
county, school, water district,
etc - yet you only have to file
once to have the exemption put
in place for all your property
taxes.
This is a free service provided
by the appraisal district and it
can save you several hundred
dollars per year!
Go to the website for your
County Appraisal District and
pull up the form for Homestead
Exemption. Fill it out and send
it in to make sure that you get
20 JANUARY 2009
SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM
your exemption (and lower
taxes) for 2009. Here are
the website addresses
for the three counties that
Schertz spans, along with
phone numbers if you prefer
to call in. Of course you
can always go in person if
you prefer.
Guadalupe County
www.guadalupead.org
830-303-3313 or 210-945-
9708
Bexar County
www.bcad.org
210-224-2432
Comal County
www.comalad.org
830-625-8597
You may also be eligible
for additional property tax
exemptions - disability,
over 65, or agricultural use
exemptions for example.
Be sure to check them all
out!
Eligibility for an exemption
is based on ownership of
the property on January
1, so now is the time to
check it out and make any
necessary changes, to
ensure all your exemptions
are in place for 2009.
If you have owned and
lived in your home for a
while and never filed - it
is not too late for 2009.
There are no refunds for
previous years, but you
can file for 2009 forward.
It’s your responsibility to
ask for the exemptions, or
you will not receive them!
INCOME TAX
ADVANTAGE
This is the big savings!
Federal income tax law
allows you to itemize and
deduct from your income
– dollar for dollar – the
amounts you have paid
for interest, property tax
and mortgage insurance
on your homestead. You
itemize these deductions
on Schedule A of your tax
return. Even taxpayers
who take standard
deductions will be able
to subtract property
taxes from their taxable
income (up to $1,000 for
married couples and $500
for others). Talk to a tax
specialist to find your best
option.
A full year of interest,
plus property taxes, plus
mortgage insurance on a
home valued at $185,000
equals about $14,566. If
you are in a 28% tax bracket
and you bought a home -
you would not have to pay
income tax on that $14,566.
This would reduce the
amount of tax you owe for
the year by $4,078.
$14,566 seems like a lot of
money to be paying out - it
comes to about $1,214 per
month. What would rent
have cost you? Would your
landlord have given you
back $4,078 of that rent at
the end of the year?
When you take the tax
reduction into account, the
home has actually only cost
you $874 per month!
 GET A TAX BREAK!
The Benefits
of Home Ownership

Did you buy or refinance a home in 2008?

Good for you!

But don’t stop there! Now is the time to

make sure you take advantage of the three
ways you can still save additional money:
property tax, income tax and with the new
interest free income tax credit for first time
home buyers.

If you receive a very large
tax refund, you may want
to review your W-4 with
your employer to see if you
should adjust the amount
of exemptions you are
claiming.
Instead of receiving such
a large refund at tax time,
you may find it more
beneficial to contribute
more to your 401k or to
increase your take home
pay. Just another benefit of
homeownership!
2008 HOUSING
AND ECONOMIC
RECOVERY ACT
TAX CREDIT
The 2008 housing stimulus
package, which was passed
to help stabilize home prices
and increase home sales,
makes some first-time
homebuyers eligible for a
$7,500 tax credit.
How does it work? You just
claim the tax credit on your
federal income tax return
and can receive a refund
check from the IRS for up
to $7,500. If you owe tax,
but it is less than $7,500 you
can get a check from the
IRS for the difference.
There is a repayment
requirement so the Federal
Treasury gets the money
back and hopefully home
buyers will benefit from
stabilized and eventually,
increasing future housing
prices. You pay the $7,500
back at a rate of $500 per
year over fifteen years.
There are a few rules:
1. To qualify you must be
a “first time homebuyer”
- meaning you have not
owned a home in the last 3
years - and you must have
purchased a new primary
residence between the
dates of April 9, 2008 and
up to July 1, 2009.
2. This is a TRUE Tax Credit
- a dollar for dollar reduction
in the amount of tax that
the new home owner owes
- not just a deduction from
taxable income (like the
property tax and interest
deduction). The credit is
calculated as 10% of the
home purchase price, with a
maximum credit amount of
$7,500.
3. There is an income limit
imposed - single taxpayers
with incomes up to $75,000
and married couples with
incomes up to $150,000
qualify for the credit. If your
income is above the limit,
you may still qualify for a
partial tax credit.
4. This tax credit works like
an interest free loan and
must be repaid at a rate of
$500 per year over a fifteen-
year period.
5. You do not start making
payments until two years
after the credit is claimed,
so it will be 2010 or 2011
before payback begins.
6. If the house is sold, you
must pay the entire balance
still due out of your proceeds
from the sale. When the
home is sold, if there is not
enough money to pay back
the tax credit, the balance
owed is forgiven.
Talk to your tax preparer
to see if you qualify for this
credit,
Property tax exemptions,
income tax deductions and
up to a $7,500 tax credit!
Ahh, the beauty of home
ownership!
BY
MADGE
RASHELL
Madge Rashell has 28 years
experience in all phases of real
estate closing, legal and finance
areas. Currently a financial
literacy consultant and manager
of a thriving mortgage banking
company.
www.hometrustmortgage.com
TALK OF THE
TOWN
Launches Online Website
VRTX Technologies
Promotes Protecting
the Environment
It seems as though everywhere
you turn today companies are
proclaiming they are “green”
and “eco-friendly.” Of course,
for many organizations these
are buzz words that help them
communicate new initiatives to
the consumer, not functions of
their industry.
VRTX Technologies is
different. While the company is
environmentally-friendly, it actively
works to ensure the description is
not just an ideal, it is a way of life.
Learn More about VRTX
Technologies online at
www.schertzmagazine.com
Schertz Tales Magazine
The World Wide Web is all the
rage! You can find out just about
anything as it’s happening.
Now Schertz Tales has joined
the information age with the
launch schertzmagazine.com.
Stay up-to-date with what is
going on in and around the
Schertz community. Check out
Exclusive Online articles; video
and photo updates; community
happenings. Also, leave us a
comment and get sneak peaks
of future issues of Schertz
Tales. Check us out at www.
schertzmagazine.com
To enter your event or
announcement in
Talk of the Town, email
your entry to
events@schertz.com
 Knights Win State Football
Championships
The Buffalo Valley There were two additional
Youth Association Knight’s teams. The Flag
Knights started playoff Team competed well
competition within the throughout the season and
Texas Youth Football were playoff contenders.
Association (TYFA) on Flag head coach Todd
November 15, 2008. All Porter led his team to the
four teams made the semi-final round, eventually
playoffs and the Midgets losing to State Runner-up,
and Rookies advanced to the Hutto Hippos. The Knight’s
State Finals in Round Rock, Junior Team, led by head
Texas on November 30, 2008. Coach Mike Miller, won 1st
For the first time in BVYA place during regular season
history, we brought home two play. This very talented
championships in a single year team was upset in the first
– the only organization in Division
round of the play-offs, which
2 to accomplish that distinction. was a surprise for the entire
league. All four teams now
The teams began practicing in head into the off-season
the hot August heat last summer. where most will start playing
There were many kids who did not basketball and, later this year,
continue on with the season, but baseball. Buffalo Valley Youth
most were ready to go when games Association, the premiere
began. This is just the second season youth activity organization
that the Knights participated in the of south Texas, is extremely
Texas Youth Football Association, so proud of all of these student
expectations from other organizations athletes and the cheerleaders
were not high and now these kids are who supported the boys
known around the state! throughout the year.

Photogra
p
Tara Berr hy by:
y

We Are The
Champions!!!
The Knights (Midget Division), under head
coach Sean Brown, won a hard-fought game
against the Brush Country Rattlers from
Pleasanton, Texas with the final score of 12-7.
These teams are comprised of boys, ages 6
and 7. With this win, the Knights finished the
season with a perfect 11-0 record.

JANUARY 2009 23
SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM
 TALK OF THE
TOWN
“It’s just a random
occurrence that changes
lives, and sometimes takes
our friends and loved ones
away,” said Cindy Raleigh,
wife of cancer survivor
Justin Raleigh and an
event organizer of the 2008
Wilenchik’s Walk for Life.
In August 2006, Raleigh’s
husband Justin, a young
active 29-year-old, was
diagnosed with cancer. “It
does not care how old you
are, how many children
you have, how long you
have been married. It does
not care if you are healthy
and happy. It can come at
any time.”
At the time of the diag-
nosis, Cindy and Justin
had been married for 7
years and were blessed
with a beautiful daugh-
ter. “My world fell apart,”
said Raleigh, “He is my
best friend and I couldn’t
imagine life without him.
‘Terrified’ was the only
word that could explain my
feelings. Not only was he
attacked by this disease,
but he was attacked by a
cancer that is so rare that
24 JANUARY 2009
SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM
Wilenchik’s Walk:
Raising the Bar for Cancer Research
only 3 people a year are
diagnosed with this form.
After visiting with his doc-
tor, Justin was referred
to the Cancer Therapy &
Research Center (CTRC)
at The University of Texas
Health Science Center at
San Antonio.
Like Raleigh, Schertz City
Council member Tony
Wilenchik was diagnosed
with cancer in the Fall of
2006. He was told that
his cancer was non-oper-
able and chemo-resistant:
He was only given six to
nine months to live. Like
Raleigh, Wilenchik and his
family never saw it com-
ing. In point of fact, Tony
was still running mara-
thons just a few months
earlier. Ultimately, Tony
was referred to CTRC
and participated in four
separate experimental
procedures.
Fortunately, with help from
God, loving friends, family,
excellent doctors, and the
knowledge that cancer
research has gained with
the help of donations,
Justin Raleigh was de-
Benefitting:
clared cancer-free in Decem- away and support our family
ber 2006! Wilenchik has also members and friends like
beaten the odds and survived Tony Wilenchik who need ex-
well beyond the six-month perimental research to help
prediction given him by keep them in the fight.”
doctors in 2006. And while
Wilenchik is now preparing to “Wilenchik’s Walk for Life
begin a fifth experimental pro- was formed with the singular
goal of raising money for the
cedure shortly, he is still going
strong over two years later. Cancer Therapy and Re-
search Center and support-
According Schertz Assistant ing its mission to conquer
Manager John Bierschwale, cancer through research,
research and prayer are prevention and treatment.
why people like Raleigh and Scheduled to take place
Wilenchik are alive today. March 7, 2008 in Schertz,
“Who cancer strikes is indis- the walk itself is set for the
criminate,” said Bierschwale. morning of March 7, 2009.
“That is why everybody needs Participants will have the op-
to do there part to support portunity to walk individually
cancer research and institu- or as teams on Schertz Park-
tions like the Cancer Therapy way. The walk ends at the
& Research Center in San Old Schertz Public Library
Antonio.” where there will be plenty of
food and entertainment for
In early 2007 City of Schertz the whole family. Sponsors,
employees decided that it volunteers, donations, and
was time to develop a pro- teams are currently being
gram to encourage residents sought! Registration informa-
to participate and raise funds tion for individuals and teams
for cancer research. “So will be available online at
many of our co-workers and www.schertz.com.
friends have been afflicted
by this disease,” explained Learn more about the mis-
organizer Kim Lewenski. “We sion of CTRC at
just want do our part to honor www.ctrc.net
loved ones who have passed By Brad E. Bailey
 Adopt a Pig at the
Schertz Library
The Schertz Library, in conjunction
with Capitol One Bank, is
sponsoring a fund-raising activity
by giving out 600 piggy banks to
people who would agree to feed
them pennies (other coins are also
acceptable). Once the pig is full,
the adoptive family would pay a
visit to Capital One Bank, empty
the pig into the change counter Special story times
and take the receipt to a teller, who with refreshments will
would deposit the money into the be provided by Capital
Schertz Library Account. The family One Bank at the Schertz Library
supports the library and they get to on Wed., January 14th, 10 am-12 Noon
keep the pig! and on Thurs., January 15th, 10 am-12
Noon and 3:30 pm-4:00 pm.
The program also will include a best
pig name contest, recognition for For more information about the adoption
the “pig families” in Schertz Tales program, contact: Gail Douglas at
and prizes. 619-1712.

GROW LOCAL FESTIVAL, AT

SCHERTZ CIVIC CENTER
Thinking about putting in a
vegetable garden this spring?
Want to grow tomatoes, peppers,
cucumbers and other edibles?
Don’t know what to do to get
started? Let the Guadalupe County
Master Gardeners show you how
it’s done. Join us Saturday Feb.
7th starting at 9 a.m. for the First
Annual “Grow Local Festival” at
the Schertz Civic Center located at
1400 Schertz Parkway.
The Festival is co-sponsored by
Schulz Nursery, New Earth Soils
and Compost, Fanick’s Garden
Center and the City of Schertz.
The Schertz Civic Center’s Vendor
Area will be open from 9 a.m. to
3:30 p.m. Admission to the Vendor
Area is free to the general public.
Shop for bedding plants and
seeds, annuals, fruit trees and
other quality garden products.
See a demonstration of rain water
harvesting. Have your hand tools
sharpened. Get advice from
local experts on gardening and
landscaping.
Need more in-depth gardening
info? Attend the “Backyard
Vegetable Gardening” seminar
from 9:15 a.m. to 3 p.m. The
seminar will cover:
1. the “basics of raised-bed
vegetable gardening – the “how”
and the “why”;
2. the best vegetables to plant
and how to do it;
3. how to harvest rainwater to
water your garden.
Pre-registration seminar cost
is $25 per person or $35 per
couple; $30 & $40 at the door.
Registration includes a hot
lunch catered by McBee’s BBQ
and chances to win great door
prizes.
For more information visit our
website at www.guadalupecount
ymastergardeners.org or contact
Linda Bruno, 210-363-8380 or
jlbruno@gvec.net.
 WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
ABOUT THE HAPPENINGZ
IN SCHERTZ CITY GOVERNMENT
CARPENTER APPOINTED
MAYOR PRO-TEM
Place 5 council member Mi-
chael Carpenter was sworn in as
Schertz Mayor Pro-Tempore by
Mayor Hal Baldwin on Decem-
ber 2, 2008. First elected in May
2005 and re-elected in 2007,
Carpenter serves as the coun-
cil liaison to the planning and
zoning commission, the library
board, the youth commission
and the 50th anniversary com-
mittee.
He also is active in the commu-
nity as a member of the Knights
of Columbus and serving in sev-
eral ministries at his parish, Our
Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic
Church in Selma.
Council member Carpenter
works as a business develop-
ment manager for the IT firm
Avnet, Inc. He is in his ninth year
there.
26 JANUARY 2009
SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM
The City of Schertz will be
holding a General Election on
May 9, 2009 to elect officials for
Council positions for a two-year
term. The current positions to
be considered on the May 9th
ballot are Council Places 3, 4
and 5. Place 3 - Councilmem-
ber John Trayhan, Place 4 -
Councilmember Tony Wilenchik
and Place 5 - Councilmember
Michael Carpenter, currently
hold these seats.
The first day to file for a place
on the ballot along with a $5.00
filing fee is February 7, 2009
Deadline to file is 5:00 p.m. on
March 9, 2009 with the City
Secretary’s office.
Carpenter graduated with hon-
ors in 1994 from State Techni-
cal Institute at Memphis (now
Southwest Tennessee Commu-
nity College) with an associate’s
degree in paralegal studies. In
1996, he graduated with honors
from the University of Memphis
with a bachelor’s degree in
liberal studies.
In 1996 and 1997 he attended
St. Mary’s University master’s
program in clinical psychol-
ogy. In 2004, he graduated
from Webster University with
a master’s degree in business
administration.
The Memphis, Tennessee, na-
tive is married to Melissa (also
from Memphis), his wife of 15
years. Michael and Missy have
two sons.
 GOVERNMENT
ROUND-UP
ELECTION INFORMATION FOR THE GENERAL
ELECTION ON MAY 9, 2009

I BL E TO R
ELIGDATE FO EARLY VO
T
B E
TO CANDI CTIVE SCHEDULING
E E:
BE A BLIC ELPERSON Monday, A
pril 27th –
PU CE, A : 8:00 a.m. to Friday, May 1st:
OFFI MUST Monday, M
5:00 p.m.
ay 4th – Tu
teen eigh
a g e of e; 7:00 a.m. to esday, May 5th:
d the offic 7:00 p.m.
at taine filing for
e
Hav time of ime
th e r a t the t
at vote
g i stered ; Early votin
re ce g
Be a g for offi he Guadalupe will be held at the
of fili
n
id e n t of t utive E
1101 Elbel lections Office,
res sec Road, Sch
b e en a st six con eceding ertz Texas.
Have or at lea iately pr If you have
f d
City hs imme ; fu
please feel rther questions,
n t e on free to con
mo for offic e City ded, City Secre tact the
g th ta
fil in r to ro i
v 1030 or 61 ry’s office at 619-
n o bligo st due, p y be 9-1031. C
ea pa ma packets w a
ill be availa ndidate
Not b bligation a person if such City’s web ble on the
o
any ver, that ld office ely con- sit
o www.sche e at
howe d and h eing activ e forum. rtz.com.
e c te is b priat
el ation he appro
o b lig t
d in
teste
b-
ay for su ca-
td pli
0 9 - Las ration ap ction.
9, 20 egist e ele
April g voter r vote at th an be
c
mittin time to ion card ibrary,
it on in registrat chertz L ces.
r S ffi
Vote d up the ounty o
ic k e d C
p an
Hall
City

JANUARY 2009 27
SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM
GOVERNMENT
ROUND-UP
SEWER AVERAGING
(NOVEMBER – FEBRUARY)
WILL AFFECT RESIDENTS’
2008-2009 SEWER BILLS
Sewer averaging for the winter months
begins November 1, 2008 and continues
through February 28, 2009. Meter read-
ings taken over this three-month period will
determine your sewer average for the next
billing year, which begins April 1. The read-
ings will be averaged, and that average will
be multiplied by $2.24 for residents with an
average below 12,000 gallons. For residents
with averages over 12,001 gallons the aver-
age will be multiplied by $2.43. That total will
be added to the base rate of $3.75 (residen-
tial use).
Customers are encouraged to use water
conservatively throughout the averaging
months to ensure their sewer/water bills
remain manageable. People who use large
amounts of water (watering the yard, bath,
etc.) during the averaging months can expect
higher sewer bills for the next billing year.
Karen Garcia, Schertz Business Office Man-
ager, advises customers to double-check
all residential water systems (toilets, show-
ers/baths, outdoor faucets, etc.) for leaks
and make sure their appliances are in good
working condition.
Commonly, unexpectedly high water bills
can be traced to leaks (toilets, automatic
sprinkler systems, etc.), or “running” toi-
lets. Garcia also suggests that residents
limit landscape water use, be frugal
when washing automobiles, and limit
unnecessary water use during the water
averaging period.
The following are the averaging dates
for each billing cycle (identified on your
water/sewer bill):
Cycle 1: Nov. 29 - Feb. 29
Cycle 2: Nov. 4 - Feb. 4
Cycle 3: Nov. 22 - Feb. 22
Cycle 4: Nov. 11 - Feb. 11
Cycle 5: Nov. 4 - Feb. 4
Cycle 6: Nov. 15 - Feb. 15
Cycle 7: Nov. 15 - Feb.15
If you are not sure of your cycle billing,
please check information on our web
site at: www.schertz.com. For more
information on water and sewer billing,
averaging or other related topics, or call
210-619-1100.
 JANUARY DATES TO KNOW:
THURSDAY, 1 THURSDAY, 15
New Years Holiday Schertz Historical
City Offices Closed Preservation Committee
No Trash Collection Meeting, 6:30pm
Council Chambers
FRIDAY, 2
New Years Holiday Schertz Youth
Commission Meeting,
City Offices Closed
6:30pm - Admin Bldg

MONDAY, 19
MONDAY, 5
Martin Luther King
Parks & Recreation
Holiday
Advisory Board
City Offices Closed
Meeting, 6pm
Community Center
Library Advisory
Board, 7pm TUESDAY, 20
Admin Bldg City Council Meeting,
6:30pm
TUESDAY, 6 Council Chambers
City Council
Meeting, 6:30pm THURSDAY, 22
Council Chambers Schertz Economic
Development
THURSDAY, 8 Corporation
TSAC, 5:30pm Meeting, 11:30am
Council Chambers Council Chambers

Citizens Police MONDAY, 26

Academy Alumni Parks & Recreation
7pm - Police Dept Advisory Board
50th Anniversary Meeting, 6pm
Committee Meeting, Community Center
7pm – Admin Bldg Board of Adjustments
Meeting, 6pm
MONDAY, 12 Council Chambers
Buffalo Valley Youth
Association, 6pm TUESDAY, 27
401 Oak St City Council Meeting,
6:30pm
TUESDAY, 13 Council Chambers
City Council
Meeting, 6:30pm WEDNESDAY, 28
Council Chambers Planning & Zoning
Meeting, 6:30pm
WEDNESDAY, 14 Council Chambers
Planning & Zoning
Meeting, 6:30pm
Council Chambers

JANUARY 2009 29
SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM
 Highlight
Chamber Members...
The Festival of Angels was such a wonderful and fun event for all
those who attended, especially the children. Once again our com-
munity came together to celebrate the holidays and provide a winter
wonderland for the kids to play, see Santa and experience snow.
The Schertz Chamber of Commerce handed out 42 1⁄2 dozen cup-
cakes provided by the Schertz Chamber of Commerce and City of
Schertz. Thanks to our members and businesses for the continued
support of such a fun event, and a special thanks to Jeanine Claus
and her mother for helping with passing out the cupcakes!

The judging of the lighting contest

took place December 10 and
the finalists were notified with a
sign in their yard on December
15. With so many extraordinary
decorations the choices were truly
overwhelming, but alas a decision
had to be made. The winners
were presented a trophy by the
City of Schertz Economic Devel-
opment during City Council on
December 16. Congratulations to
the winners!
The speaker for our January
lunch program will be Sena-
tor Jeff Wentworth who will be
bringing us an update on what’s
happening at our State Capital
and issues that may affect our
area. Please contact the Cham-
ber offices at 566-9000 or e-mail
cbourquin@schertzchamber.org to
RSVP. Cost is $10 with RSVP and
$15 at the door. The luncheon
will be held at the Schertz Civic
Center on January 30 at 11:30am.
This is sure to be a popular
program so be sure to make your
reservations no later than
January 23.
Until next time, remember to...
SHOP SCHERTZ!

30 JANUARY 2009
SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM

�����������������������������������������������
Dear friend,
I want to give credit where credit is due. So, perhaps
a confession can help clear the air so there’s no
misunderstanding, Before I talk about my confession,
though, let me say a few other things first.
Let me start by explaining the photo in this letter. You
know, when I meet people in town they usually say, “Oh,
yeah, I know you, you’re Dr. Martin. I’ve seen your ad with
that picture of you and the two cute kids.” Well, I’m the guy
in the middle. Years ago I was a college baseball player, but
I developed a painful neck, shoulder and arm condition. In
my case it came on suddenly. The pain in my hands was
so intense that I couldn’t raise my arm above my head or
even throw a baseball. I was afraid that I would lose my
scholarship if it continued. I went to my trainer and medical
doctor and was given anti-inflammatories. The problem
with those medications is that they just mask the symptoms
and in my case did not help. Finally, after steroid injections
I decided against it. But, there’s more…A family member
of mine convinces me to give their doctor a try. This new
doctor did an exam, took some films, and then “adjusted”
my spine. The adjustment didn’t
hurt, it actually felt good. I
got relief, and I could use
my arm again. Oh,
did I mention that
this doctor is a
c h i r o p r a c t o r.
It worked so
well that I went
to chiropractic
school myself.
Now for
McKenna
a n d
Cooper, who are the cute kids in the picture. They get
adjusted regularly and are some of the healthiest kids
you will know. Their mom is also problem-free even
with all the bending and lifting a busy mom of two does.
It might seem like a small thing, but it makes a big
difference to her.
It’s strange how life is, because now people come
to see me with their neck, arm and shoulder problems.
Also they come to me with their headaches, migraines,
chronic pain, carpal tunnel, whiplash from car accidents,
backaches, ear infections, asthma, allergies, numbness
in limbs, athletic injuries, just to name a few.
Here’s what some of my patients had to say:
“I have not had a headache in months”- (Mary J.)
“Mood and attitude have improved” – (Lisa A.)
Several times a day patients thank me for helping
them with their health problems. But I can’t really take
the credit. My confession is that I’ve never healed
anyone of anything. What I do is perform a specific
spinal adjustment to remove nerve pressure, and the
body responds by healing itself. We get tremendous
results. It’s a simple as that!
Forty-eight million Americans no longer have health
insurance, and those who do have found that their
benefits are reduced. That’s where my I come in. I have
a significantly lower fee plan so that more people are
able to afford the care they need. A whole week of
care in my office costs what you could pay for one visit
elsewhere. Studies show that people actually pay less
for their long-term overall health care expenses if they
are seeing a chiropractor.
You Benefit from an Amazing Offer- Look, you are
going to write a check to someone for your health care
expenses, you may as well write one for a lesser amount
for chiropractic. When you bring in this article, you will
receive my entire new patient exam for $17. That’s with
an evaluation and X-Rays….the whole ball of wax. But,
Schertz Chamber MARKETPLACE
please call right away because this offer expires on February 15,
2009, and I don’t want you to miss out. By the way, further care is
very affordable and you’ll be happy to know that I have affordable
plans. You see I’m not trying to seduce you to come see me with
this low start up fee, then to only make it up with high fees after
that. Further care is very important to consider when making your
choice of doctor. High costs can add up very quickly.
Great care at a great fee…Please, I hope that there’s no
misunderstanding about quality of care just because I have a
lower fee. You’ll get great care at a great fee. My qualifications…
I’m a Magna cum Laude graduate of Cleveland Chiropractic
College and a Strength and Conditioning Specialist. I’ve been
entrusted to take care of tiny babies to pro athletes that you
may know. After practicing for four years in San Antonio I
moved my practice to Schertz. I just have a low exam fee to
help more people who need care.
My Associate, Dr. Kyle Stringer, brings over five years
of experience to our practice with the latest in pain-free
techniques.
My assistant is Rebecca, and she is really a great person.
Our office is both friendly and warm and we try our best to
make you feel at home. We have a wonderful service, at an
exceptional fee. Our office is called
Schertz Chiropractic and it is at 17323 IH 35 North Ste 106,
(we are between 3009 and Schertz Parkway on the 35 South
Access Road). Our phone number is 210-646-6000. Call
Rebecca or me today for an appointment. We can help you.
Thank you.
-Patrick W. Martin, D.C.
P.S. When accompanied by the first, I am also offering the
second family member this same examination for only $10.
P.S.S. Your time is just as valuable as ours, that’s why we will
be with you promptly at your appointment.
JANUARY 2009 31
SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM
 ARKETPLACE To advertise please call (210) 619-1060, or visit www.schertz.com

32 JANUARY 2009
SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM
MARKETPLACE To advertise please call (210) 619-1060, or visit www.schertz.com

33
JANUARY 2009
SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM
 To advertise please call (210) 619-1060, or visit www.schertz.com

Look for this HIDDEN Schertz

plane in one
advertisement somewhere in
every issue of Schertz Tales.
Be the 25th person to email
events@schertz.com and
win:
A Gift Certificate for:
ARKETPLACE

34 JANUARY 2009
SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM
 (R-L) Miss Friendly City, Sarah Corder; Miss Sunshine
Julianne Royce; Miss Tri-County, Crystal Wilson;
Miss Schertz, Taylor Weidman; Miss Liberty, Sarah
Wiley; Miss Freedom, Ellen Goos

Featured
this month is
Miss Tri-County,
Crystal Wilson
Hey Y’all, my name is Crystal
Wilson, also known as Miss Tri-
County, or Peaches by my Dad. I
am the fourth of five children from my
parents Joe and Kathy. My brothers, to
whom I am known as Rugrat, and Munch-
kin, are Jeremy, Brian, and Jason. I have two
sister-in-laws, Erica and Gayla. I have one little
sister Emily. I have also been blessed with two nieces,
the sunshine of most of my days, Samantha and Lily, with a
third on the way. I have attended school in the SCUCISD from the
time I was at Northview, as a kindergarten student, to finishing my public
school years at Samuel Clemens High School where I am currently a senior.
I love to stay active, at school I am a 3rd year buffalo varsity cheerleader, a
four-year member, and two-year section leader in the Mighty Buffalo Band.
I am proud to say I am a member of the National Honors Society, Ad-
vanced Placement, and the International Baccalaureate Program. Outside
of school, I attend Schertz United Methodist Church, where I am a mem-
ber of the youth group, choir, and a Sunday school teacher, as well as a
nursery worker. I have lived in Schertz for 14 years and consider it to be the
only home I can hold in my heart. After attending Texas A&M Corpus Christi
I would love to come back to Schertz and teach 1st or 2nd grade in the
district. As an overall summary I would like to say I love giving, sharing my
time with others, and being an outgoing optimist. JANUARY 2009 35
SCHERTZMAGAZINE.COM
 City of Schertz
1400 Schertz Parkway
Schertz, Texas 78154

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W elcome to the monthly

magazine published by the
City of Schertz featuring the people
and places who contribute to its reputation
Spotlights:
-Human interest stories and special features
-Business profiles
Wh
at
got you
kno ta
-Arts & entertainment
as “one of the best places to live in Texas” -Community events
-City news & government information
- (Money Magazine). w!
Features:
The magazine proudly distinguishes itself -Award-winning design and crisp, professional layout
-FREE professional graphic design for advertisers
with strong, engaging editorial content, and
-Top-notch writers and photographers
superior photography and design. From
residents to visitors, businesses and city Schertzmagazine.com
leaders, Schertz Magazine showcases the launches January 2009
very best of Schertz encompassing -Online magazine with features, profiles, city news and more...
-Advertising
the vast beauty of an ever-evolving city.
-Blog site and podcasts and calendar of events

Don’t miss this Distribution

Since 2000, Schertz has grown from 18,000 residents to over 36,000 and is
opportunity to now the largest suburban city of San Antonio. The city is projected to more
than double its current population in less than a decade.
reach YOUR The magazine is a FREE publication, direct mailed
client base! every month to ALL Schertz residents and distributed to over
a thousand businesses from Universal City to New Braunfels.