Advocate – January 2012

Understanding FAR (Floor Area Ratio)
Gardening – Late Winter Gardening Tips
Wine & Dine in ’09 – The Phantom Foodie
Open Records Requests to City of AH

There are several ways in which building mass is constrained in Alamo Heights. The existing zoning ordinance uses four tools: lot coverage, building height, height looming standards and FAR. The revisions being proposed for Chapter 3 of the Zoning Ordinance (Residential Design Standards) utilize those same tools to promote outcomes that are more compatible with the existing scale and qualities of the residential stock found in Alamo Heights.
FAR, or Floor Area Ratio, is the mathematical relationship between the area of the lot in square feet and the total constructed area of the house and garage, including certain covered porches and decks.
The Zoning Ordinance has traditionally distinguished between the Cottage District or SF-B District (Editor’s note: SF stands for Single Family as opposed to Multi-Family) and the rest of Alamo Heights (SF-A District), and the proposed revisions continue in that vein. It should be noted that the FAR is computed differently in other jurisdictions. In Terrell Hills, for example, part of the garage area is excluded.
The existing ordinance sets the FAR at 0.53 (53%) for both SF-A and SF-B. This means that for a typical 50 ft. x 150 ft. lot (7,500 s.f.) the total amount of building could be 3,950 s.f. Assuming a typical 500 s.f. double car garage, the house itself could not exceed 3,450 s.f. without getting a variance. The proposed changes to the FAR reduce the old FAR of 0.53 (53%) while allowing for bonuses that can increase the FAR back up as follows:
For the SF-B (Co age District) the proposed FAR is 0.42 (42%), which can be increased to a maximum of 0.50 (50%) employing the following bonuses –

1. Increase height looming ratio (house is further set back from the property line) can add 0.02 (2%); and/or
2. Substantial front porch (provide a significant front porch area) add 0.02 (2%); and/or
3. Side or alley access (eliminate long impervious drive from front street to garage in back) add 0.02 (2%); and/or
4. Pervious front access driveway (decrease runoff into street) add 0.02 (2%); and/or
5. One-story garage (reduce visual impact on neighbor to rear and side) add 0.02 (2%); and/or
6. Additional pervious parking area (decrease runoff into street) add 0.02 (2%); and/or
7. Preservation of 50% of main structure (incentivize
   conservation, not demolition) add 0.40 (4%).

Note that the total of these bonuses cannot increase the FAR beyond 0.50 (50%) in the Cottage District.
As an example of how the proposed FAR would function for a 7,500 s.f. lot, consider the following scenarios:

• Someone who demolishes an existing home and constructs a new house without a porch, doesn’t set their home back further, builds a two-story garage, and paves their lot with a concrete drive from the front to back, could not construct more than 3,150 s.f. (including garage).
• Someone who demolishes and builds anew with greater setbacks, uses pervious drives and parking, utilizes rear or side access, creates a large front porch, and makes a 1-story garage, could build up to 3,750 (including garage), the maximum allowed.
• Someone who preserves 50% of the existing structure, builds a 1 story garage, uses pervious paving, and has a signifficant front porch, could build as large as 3,750 s.f. (including garage), the
  maximum allowed.

The signi cant di erence between the SF-B and SF-A is that for the SF-A District, the base FAR is 0.45 (45%) instead of 0.42 (42%) and the maximum with bonuses is 0.53 (53%) instead of 0.50 (50%). This means the largest home (including garage) would be the same as the existing ordinance, or 3,950 s.f. The three scenarios above would be similar for the SF-A District, with the maximums increasingly larger for the same lot size.
Keep in mind that possible changes to the height looming standard, which affects how close to the property line one can build, the maximum building height, and the lot coverage limit, which controls how big the building footprint can be, can help guide future construction towards a greater degree of compatibility with the existing housing stock.
Please look at the information available on the City of Alamo Heights’ web site and make your opinion heard by City Council or by communicating directly with Brian Chandler, Director of Planning & Development Services at (210) 832-2250 or at bchandler@alamoheightstx.gov. The various proposals to revise Chapter 3 will impact the future development of the City and are important to every one of us.
John Hertz served on the city’s Residential Design Standards committee, appointed by Mayor Louis Cooper and City Council. The above is what the RDS committee is proposing to City Council, which must now approve the change to the city’s Zoning Ordinance. While AHNA welcomes the concept behind the revision, it generally believes that the above proposed revised FARs are still unnecessarily high and are not the best ones for the future of our city.

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Gardening
LATE WINTER GARDENING TIPS

• Now is an excellent time to transplant mature or established trees and shrubs while they are dormant.
• Make flower and vegetable garden plans now before the rush of spring planting. Time spent in armchair gardening before the fireplace will pay off in improved plant selection. Besides, it is fun to page through the garden catalogs.
• Sow seeds in flats or containers to get a jump on plant growth before hot weather arrives. Petunias, begonias, and impatiens should be sown in early January. Warm temperature plants, such as tomatoes, peppers, marigolds, and periwinkles, should be sown in late January
  or early February.

• Apply a light application of fertilizer to established pansy plantings. Use one-half pound of ammonium sulfate per 100 square feet of bed area. Repeat the application every 4 to 6 weeks, depending on rainfall. Dried blood meal is also an excellent source of fertilizer for pansies.
• Prepare beds and garden area for spring planting.
• Select and order gladiolus corms for February/March planting. Plant at two-week intervals to prolong flowering period.
• Check junipers and other narrow-leaf evergreens for bagworm pouches. The insect eggs overwinter in the pouch, and start the cycle again by emerging in the spring to begin feeding on the foliage. Hand removal and burning of the pouches are ways of reducing the potential damage next spring.
• The life of the plant received as a Christmas gift can be prolonged with proper care. Keep the soil moist, but provide drainage so that excess moisture can flow from the pot. Keep the plant out of range of heating ducts and away from heating units. Keep in a cool room at night, preferably at 60 to 65 degrees F.
• Don’t fertilize newly set out trees or shrubs until after they have started to grow, and then only very lightly the first year.
• When buying plants, the biggest is not always the best, especially when dealing with bare-root plants. The medium to small sizes (4 to 6 feet) are usually faster to become established and more effective in the landscape than the large sizes.
• Prune bush roses during February or early March. Use good shears that will make clean cuts. Remove dead, dying, and weak canes. Leave 4 to 8 healthy canes, and remove approximately one-half of the top growth and height of the plant.
• Now is an excellent time to select and plant container-grown roses to fill in those bare spots in your rose garden.
• When pruning shrubs, first prune out any dead or damaged branches; then thin out by removing about one-third of the canes or stems at ground level, removing the oldest canes only; and last, shape the rest of the plant, but do not cut everything back to the same height.
• Plant dahlia tubers in late February and early March.
• In Central and South Texas, the following  ower seeds may be sown directly without protection in well prepared flower beds in February or March: nasturtiums, annual phlox, California poppies, cone owers, and larkspur. Petunia plants may be set out in sunny, well drained
  locations.

• Water foliage plants as well as other containerized plants only when needed and not by the calendar.
• Climbing roses should be trained but not pruned. Weave long canes through openings in trellises or arbors and tie them with jute twine or plastic/wire plant ties. Securing canes now prevents damage from winter winds, and contributes toward a more refined look to the garden when roses are blooming. Wait until after the spring flowering period to prune climbing or once-blooming shrub roses.
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  WINE & DINE
  in ’09
  THE PHANTOM FOODIE

  A traditional, old-school Italian restaurant, SORRENTO has been a fixture in the culinary life of Alamo Heights (tucked away in a corner of the Stewart Center at 5146 Broadway) for as long as the Godfather made offers that you can’t refuse or at least it seems so.
  The décor is dated but quaint, with one long wall lined with the proverbial “99 bottles of wine on the wall.” Patrons can order by the glass or bottle from a small selection of Italian and U.S. wines. “How about a little Chianti…”
  Sorrento is family-friendly, casual dining. Three children’s plates are listed: what child doesn’t love spaghetti and meatballs Frequently, long tables are set for large groups of what seem to be business colleagues or birthday parties.
  With 22 different pizzas listed on the menu plus the Magherita at dinner, this restaurant seems to do more take-out (at least on my recent visits) than Tony Soprano did in a year. Pizzas are sized small, medium and large – and are sumptuous. There’s even a vegetarian including six extra toppings. If you like everything, Gino’s Special includes mozzarella, sausage, pepperoni, green pepper, extra cheese, onion, anchovies (my favorite), jalapenos, meatballs, mushrooms and bacon. For lunch, try the Stramboli pizza, which includes a drink, and is stuffed with pepperoni, sausage, ham and mozzarella. Tasty and filling – no need to eat dinner after this
  lunch!
  Mama mia used to say “eat your greens” and that’s a good way to start for lunch or dinner: a crisp Cesare (that’s the way they spell it), romaine lettuce dressed to the “nines”, but never soggy. Try a house salad that includes peperoncini and black olives, or the Greca, which, in addition to the preceding ingredients, includes feta cheese in a Greek dressing.
  There are eight pastas at noon and nine at dinner of various shapes and thicknesses: spaghetti, penne, fettucine, rigatoni, cappelini – all topped with various veggies, meats, cheeses – or even the beloved and simple, classic olive oil and garlic. The meat sauce on the spaghetti Bolognese was too tomatoy for my taste, but the cannelloni di manzo with its meat and creamy sauce was heavenly. The béchamel sauce made for a creamy lasagna della casa, and the cannelloni di manza, stuffed with cheese in a light pink sauce, was equally satisfying.
  At dinner, the menu broadens to include chicken, veal and fish dishes. Here calamari appears in a sauce of capers, olives, onions, cherry peppers and tomatoes, as well as an antipasti where it is fried. Or enjoy Gamberi  a diavolo, shrimp in a spicy marinara. These entrees are served over linguine. Six pollo (chicken) dishes are parsed with imaginative additions: asparagus, pignolo (pine nuts), mushrooms, lemon/caper sauces, and other savories. The Vitello (veal) Marsala was my favorite: tender with melt-in-your-mouth feel. Additional sides are listed on the menu as available with entrees only, although it would be nice to order garlic bread with anything on the menu.
  Portions tend to be generous…easy to take home for a midnight snack. Service is adequate, but nothing to write Mamamia about if they get busy.
  Sorrento is reasonably priced, comfortable and comforting – especially on a cold night.

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  Open Records Requests to City of AH
  From October 25 2011 to December 20, 2011

  10/25/2011	Tom Hall	Copy of the Minutes of the ARB, between June 1975 and 1976 approving the building located on the site in the 5000 block of Broadway and 100 block of Mary D, now known as Cappy’s. Also the names of all members of the ARB in 1975 and 1976.
  10/25/2011	Robert Ruggiero	Copy of audio  left for City Council meeting on Oct. 24, 2011
  10/26/2011	Tom Hall	A copy of the registration by the City Engineer, rejecting the approval of the opening of the bar and restaurant located at 5003 Broadway in 1994, now known as Cappyccino’s.
  10/26/2011	William (Bill) Kiel	Requesting property information from 4620 Broadway owned by Donald and Mrs. West. 1. When did the Wests (Chase Bank) file a replat request? Please provide the application doc if available. 2. When was the drive through ordinance initiated and by whom? Of interest would be NCCR involvement. 3. When was the replat granted and what steps were taken to approve the replat?
  11/1/2011	Julie A. Bruton	Copies of any current floor plans or construction plans on file for my residence, 140 Lamont. It was remodeled in approximately 2004-2005.
  11/1/2011	Tommie Reyes	List of current and delinquent taxes on real property
  11/1/2011	Jady King (1)	Copies of all building permits issued during Oct., 2011 that cover residential construction valued over $30,000, commercial construction valued over $30,000 and all swimming pools.
  11/1/2011	Carole Bartholomew (2)	Copy of the Oct., 2011 issued permits for all new construction listing contractor, job address, value, shift and issue date.
  11/2/2011	Fernando Centeno	1. Copy of date and location of last Comprehensive Planning Meeting Agenda. 2. Copy of date and Agenda of meeting(s) re: discussion of dog park site, list of attendees, held before 1/23/09. 3. Copy of Minutes of meeting(s) held before 1/23/09 re: item 2.
  11/2/2011	Mrs. William C. Tassos	Names and addresses of the residents on Estes Avenue.
  11/3/2011	Lucy S. Perez (3)	Request for a listing of each permit issued for new residential and commercial facilities as well as additions and renovation with baseline of $25,000. Also requesting the listing include the permits issued for in-ground swimming pools. Period covered is Oct. 1-31, 2011.
  11/3/2011	Tom Hall	A copy of the Minutes of the ARB meeting approving the signage for Cappyccino’s at 5003 Broadway and approving a Cappy’s sign on Mary D Street. Also include the names of all ARB board members. This was all after 1998. Also provide the permit allowing the building of a deck at Cappy’s and Cappyccino’s.
  11/7/2011	Jill Souter	Requesting copies of the voting rolls for the CoAH Nov. 2011 special election regarding the bond election. Requesting both early voting and election day rolls.
  11/7/2011	David Ozuna	Current and delinquent tax report.
  11/7/2011	Ruben Cardenas Jr.	Audio recordings of request of tow truck/Fire Dept. to patrol car at Alameda Circle in Olmos Park on June 11, 2011 and service reports (Editor’s note: Olmos Park contracts with Alamo Heights to dispatch its Police and Fire Depts.)
  11/8/2011	Candice Bailey	Bldg., Fire, Zoning Letters/Permits, violations, citations and inspections, plus  final Certificate of Occupancy for Chase Bank, 5900 Broadway.
  11/9/2011	Mary Fa’anunu (4)	Monthly report for Oct., 2011 for commercial and residential structural building permits and swimming pools.
  11/10/2011	Carlynn Ricks	Copy of event application-Fiesta Pooch Parade and all supporting material, i.e. site plan, parking plan, and owner approval letter.
  11/14/2011	Robert Ruggiero	Audio file for Nov. 14, 2011 City Council meeting.
  11/15/2011	John Joseph	Handout containing official results of Nov. 8 bond election.
  11/28/2011	Audrey Moses	1. Method used by city’s animal shelter to euthanize dogs and cats in its custody. 2. Number of animals euthanized by each method indicated in your answer to #1 during previous 12 months.
  12/1/2011	Lucy S. Perez (3)	Request for a listing of each permit issued for new residential and commercial facilities, as well as additions and renovations with baseline of $25,000. Also request the listing include the permits issued for in ground swimming pools. Period covered is Nov. 1 – 31, 2011.
  12/1/2011	Jady King (1)	Copies of all building permits issued during Oct., 2011 that cover residential construction valued over $30,000, commercial construction valued over $30,000 and all swimming pools.
  12/5/2011	David Youngblood	Listing of street names and dates they were resurfaced.
  12/6/2011	Jacob Wuenschel	Fire Dept/Code/Zoning Compliance, Planning and Development Review Records for 5307 Broadway.
  12/6/2011	Mary Fa’anunu (4)	Copies of all building permits issued during Oct., 2011 that cover residential construction valued over $30,000, commercial construction valued over $30,000 and all swimming pools.
  12/13/2011	Candice Martin	Request for Zoning Veri cation Letter for the property at 5307 Broadway. Specifically: 1. What is the current zoning of the property? 2. Is this property a Planned Development of any type? 3. Is the current use permitted in this Zoning District? 4. Are there any Variances or Special Conditional Use Permits associated with this property? 5. Did this property receive Site Plan approval? 6. What are the abutting Zoning Districts? 7. Are there Certificates of Occupancy associated with the site? 8. Are there currently any outstanding Zoning, Building and/or Fire & Safety Code Violations affecting the subject property? 9. Are there currently any road construction/widening projects going on that might take land away from this property?
  12/13/2011	Tim Caldwell	All traffic cases  led or disposed with the City of Alamo Heights Municipal Court from Nov. 1, 2008 to Nov. 30, 2011
  12/15/2011	Tinsman & Sciano	Permit for spiral staircase at Ridgemont Properties’ Katherine Court Apartments, 119 Katherine Court

  
  NOTE: To save space, The ADVOCATE’s Open Records Requests to obtain the above are not shown. Serial requests from non-Alamo Heights residents:
  (1) Jady King; 1206 West 43rd St.; Austin, TX 78756. Phone: (512) 814-5892
  (2) Carole Bartholomew; 1423 Swallow Circle; Lewisville, TX. Phone: (972) 318-0026
  (3) Lucy S. Perez; 227 Merry Ann; San Antonio, TX 78223. Phone: (210) 533-1131
  (4) Mary Fa’anunu; PO Box 2202; Cedar City, Utah. 84721. Phone: (800) 925-6085 ext 130
  

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City Council Meeting – Monday, December 12, 2012

Click here to watch the meeting in its entirety.

Advocate – December 2011

Founder’s Corner – John Joseph
Alamo Heights Election Results – November 8, 2011
Citizens Emergency Services Academy – Marcia Goren Weser
Crime Blotter – Alamo Heights Police
Wine & Dine in ’09 – The Phantom Foodie
Open Records Request to City of AH – Sept. 20, 2011 – Oct 24, 2011

CITY HALL BOND
Last month 698 residents voted in the special election concerning the $6.3 million bond to improve the City Hall complex. As shown on Page 4, over 66% voted to approve that bond, while just under 34% voted against it. Another victory with a 2 to 1 margin. Can you see a pattern here? As accurately predicted on this page last month, the bond was approved by “the smallest turnout in the past two years.” The main thing, of course, is that it passed and in the process the taxpayers saved over $5 million compared to the ultra-divisive Prop. 1 in 2009 ($4 million for the bond, plus over $1 million interest).

While some grumble about the low turnout (698 is only 13.4% of the city’s 5,204 registered voters), historically that’s a fairly typical turnout for Alamo Heights if you don’t count the last two years, which have seen a more highly energized electorate than normal. Despite the relatively low voter turnout, this was actually a monumental election for Alamo Heights. After a number of failed attempts we are  finally getting an improved municipal facility that is so direly needed.

From a human standpoint it’s been fascinating to watch a few folks line up post-election to practically fall all over themselves taking credit for the bond passing. Strangely enough, some of those same individuals took out ads in October opposing the bond and even called people and told them not to vote at all or to vote against it.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS?
 The current plan calls for the new Fire Station to be built at the corner of Broadway and Bluebonnet, including the land where the old City Council Chambers building stands today. Architect John Grable, who lives and works in Alamo Heights, has suggested a very worthwhile alternative. Instead of bulldozing it, he wonders if the 1920’s Craftsman building could be moved to the strip of park land the City owns on Viesca, near Alamo Heights Swimming Pool. The idea is that it could serve as a community meeting/reception space, something that’s been on many city offcials’ wishlist for years. It is a worthwhile idea that certainly deserves further, serious study. While there is no money currently in the City budget to cover such a proposal, perhaps a donor will step forward to  – finance the move.

WOAI THINKS AH HAS BEDBUGS
In November WOAI TV hyped a disgusting story by reporter Laurie Salazar about an apartment she originally claimed was in Alamo Heights which had a bedbug infestation. A super sleuth on AHNA’s Board of Directors quickly learned that the apartment in question was on Gault Lane, near Loop 410 and Broadway, over a mile from the City of Alamo Heights. Once he informed WOAI of this they changed the story to say “North side.” WOAI seems to be specializing in bedbug stories these days. Whatever happened to journalists going to the trouble of getting the facts straight before doing a story?

AH HOLIDAY PARADE CANCELLED
What would have been the Alamo Heights Chamber of Commerce’s 35th annual Holiday Parade was cancelled last month. Apparently a major sponsor pulled their financial support at the last minute.
Happiest of holidays to everyone. I hope you and your family enjoy a good and safe holiday.

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Alamo Heights Election Results
November 8, 2011

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MARCIA GOREN WESER
I participated in the 1990 Alamo Heights’ Citizens Police Academy, ten weekly classes about law enforcement that made me a more alert, involved citizen. Included were visits by a Texas Ranger and a representative from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). My classmates and I even rode on patrol with police officers on the “dog watch” shift (10:00 PM – 6:00 AM). It was an interesting opportunity and I was very impressed with the professionalism of the city’s personnel.
 The 2012 Citizens Emergency Services Academy will soon offer even more!
Beginning on Thursday, Jan. 12 and continuing for 12 weeks, Alamo Heights’ first responders will present a behind-the-scenes look at the work of our police officers, firefighters and paramedics, who will present most of the programs. The free classes will meet every Thursday from 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM through March 29.
Alamo Heights residents and business owners or their employees over the age of 18 may attend. These interactive, participatory programs will also include outside resources and presenters. Class size is limited to 20 persons to insure a meaningful experience. Those accepted are asked to commit to attend all 12 programs.
“This is a ‘hands on’ experience, a two-way street, for our citizens” explained Chief of Police Richard Pruitt. “We’ll talk about such topics as computer fraud, identity theft, the ‘use of force continuum’ and vehicle pursuits, the value of technical equipment such as Tasers, and we will give people a number of unusual, hands-on experiences.”
Four sessions will be devoted to fire and EMS operations. “We will review our services, tools and special equipment,” said Fire Chief Buddy Kuhn. “Learn how your firefighters use thermal imaging and deal with hazardous materials. They will also explain how home fire extinguishers work and how to properly store flammables.”
Basic first aid training and new CPR techniques will be covered as well. “This is good information whether you’re home or camping or hunting,” said Kuhn. “Knowing how to treat shock or a bad cut anywhere can make a big difference. Our Medical Director (a local ER physician) will be one of our speakers. Also, we’ll talk about EMS charges for a variety of services and how we work with insurance companies for reimbursement.”
 This is a wonderful opportunity to meet Alamo Heights’ staff, and to learn of the day-to-day services they provide our community. For example, two police officers do security inspections (sometimes necessary for insurance purposes) to help homeowners better protect their property. Firefighters do fire safety inspections, looking for potential dangers. They also install smoke detectors for older or indigent residents. Such services are offered free, and take little more than 30 minutes.
Other class topics include crime prevention in public areas, how not to be a target for crime, drug and alcohol abuse in the community, and why it is important for professional electricians and plumbers to do repairs. “Safety is the first priority,” according to Chief Kuhn.
“We will introduce future programs we hope to establish,” Chief
Pruitt said, “such as the use of social media to protect neighborhoods and to alert citizens of scams and thefts quickly. A reinvigorated Neighborhood Watch program could prevent what we’re seeing now around the holidays: thieves following UPS or FedEx deliveries to porches, then swooping down to steal packages. People need to know what to look for on their street: a strange car or service vehicle in a driveway when your neighbor is out of town, for example. Just call us to check it out.”
For more information about the Academy or to register to attend, please call Corporal Tim Barlow at 832-2201 or Debbie McPheeters at 822-6433.

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Theft Vehicle 11/20/11 100 blk. W. Castano
Vehicle owner reported a pick-up truck was stolen from his driveway.

Vehicle Burglary 11/16/11 5100 blk. Broadway
Laptop computer briefcase was stolen from a vehicle parked in a business parking lot; side window was broken out to gain entry to the vehicle.

Theft 11/16/11 1000 blk. Townsend
A wallet containing check and credit cards was stolen from a purse in an unattended office. A debit card stolen in the the was used several times before the theft was discovered.

Theft 11/14/114800 blk. Broadway
A customer reported wallet was stolen from her purse while left unattended in a shopping basket. In less than one hour after the the her credit cards had been used in multiple near-by retail locations.

Thefte 11/12/11 500 blk. College Blvd
Two laptop computers and an i-Pad were reported stolen from a kitchen
table; no signs of unauthorized entry.

Criminal Trespass 11/9/11 5600 blk. Broadway
AHPD officer on patrol located the source of an audible burglar alarm
and discovered a door having evidence of forced entry. While checking
the interior of the business the officer located an intoxicated male subject passed out on a table.

Arrest – Vehicle Burglars 11/8/11 500 blk. Austin Hwy
AHPD officer on patrol recognized a suspect vehicle from an earlier radio broadcast of a vehicle burglary in Terrell Hills; officer also noted occupants of vehicle matched broadcast description of burglary suspects. Four suspects were taken into custody and stolen property recovered.

Theft Vehicle 11/7/11 100 blk. Arcadia
Vehicle reported stolen from parking lot of apartment complex.

 Theft 11/4/11 500 blk. Austin Hwy.
Two male subject ran out of a store without paying for two 18-can packs of beer.

Terroristic Threats 11/4/11 5400 blk. Broadway
An employee of a local business reported receiving death threats from a former boyfriend who had physically assaulted her in the past.

Theft 11/2/11 6600 blk. Broadway
A motor scooter was stolen from a rear parking area during daytime hours.

Vehicle Burglary 11/2/11 50 Alamo Heights Blvd.
Back-pack containing cell phone and other property left on the front seat of an unlocked vehicle was stolen.

Theft 11/2/11 100 blk. Barilla
Motorcycle stolen from rear parking area while owner was at work.

Theft 10/28/11 200 blk. Morton
A report was made for jewelry discovered missing sometime in June or
July when service workers were present in the home.

Vehicle Burglary 10/23/11 300 blk. Montclair
Vehicle door lock was pried to steal electronics left on the seat in open view.

Vehicle Burglary 10/23/11 400 blk. La Jara
Vehicle window was broken out to steal sunglasses and baseball cap.

Theft 10/21/11 4800 blk. Broadway
A patron returned to a restaurant where a purse was left behind to discover the purse had been stolen.

Attempted Fraud 10/21/11 200 blk. Montclair
Resident received a phone call from a person identifying herself as a niece using the proper name. The caller reported she had been involved in an accident in Mexico and needed $2,500 wired to her. Caller provided a Western Union return address for the transfer. Resident called his niece and discovered the call was fraudulent. This is a common fraud tactic!

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WINE & DINE
in ’09
THE PHANTOM FOODIE

If any restaurant could be considered the Alamo Heights “neighborhood hangout”, it would be CAPPY’S, (5011 Broadway at the corner of Mary D).
With its casual patio dining and its table-clothed inside spaces, bar and exhibition-quality paintings on the walls, Cappy’s has been the quintessential meeting place for ‘09ers since 1977. You’ll see your neighbors, local artists, state and national politicos, and even movie stars (but please, no autographs – let them eat in peace). It is elegant without being stuffy or formal. You’ll see old-timers in jeans, as well as high school seniors in formals and tuxedos during prom season. It is open seven days a week. Satisfy your hunger for a leisurely lunch or Sunday brunch (11:00 a.m.-2:30 p.m.) or dinner (5:30-10 p.m.).
For Sunday brunch consider Eggs Benedict, Eggs Louis or Eggs Commodore, plus Cappy’s ubiquitous Seafood Gumbo (it’s available at lunch or dinner, by the cup or bowl), all reflecting the influence of New Orleans cooking. Don’t miss the New Orleans Bread Pudding for dessert, the Sunday specials or the Texas Pot Roast for brunch…stick to-your-ribs, lipsmacking good!
My favorite lunch item is the Country Club Chicken Salad, complete with fresh fruits and marinated vegetables on a bed of lettuce and a wondrous small mango mold. There are also shrimp or other chicken salads  avored to reflect various cuisines from around the world or moules frites or Kobe burgers with a choice of toppings. Besides the Gumbo, there’s a great Tortilla Soup that can be paired with a Caesar or other salad. A perfect ladies’ lunch spot, of good value.
Dinner should start with other favorites, all seafoodbased: try the char-grilled Gulf oysters in season, Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes or Gulf Shrimp Nachos – great to share with your tablemates. Choose one of the inventive salads like Endive dressed with apples and walnuts. Even the Iceberg Lettuce Wedge is tasty – and I never eat Iceberg anywhere else (the secret is in the dressing). The Grilled Beef Tenderloin arrives exactly as you requested, with a marvelous charcoal  flavor as on all the meats. The Heights Burger is juicy too. Lots of fish dishes (specials usually), and some chicken dishes plus sides that would satisfy even Dr. Oz.
My favorite is a Grilled Rack of Lamb like no other: it should be on your “bucket list.” Key Lime Pie or Warm Chocolate Cake tops the meal for dessert.
Cappy or Suzy Lawton are usually around, visiting with diners, so say hello. Cappy graduated from AHHS and served on the Alamo Heights City Council. These days, you are more likely to find him in the kitchen, doing what he loves best: cooking some of the best food in town.

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Open Records Requests to City of AH
From September 20, 2011 to October 24, 2011

<td. Carole Bartholomew (1)Copy of the Sept 2011 issued permits for all new construction listing contractor, job address, value, shift and issue date

9/20/2011	Jose Barrera	Copy of final architectural plans for 312 Blue Bonnet Blvd
9/27/2011	David Ozuna	Copy of the first available tape with the 2011 tax bills.
9/28/2011	Bebb Francis	Landscape details page LP2 4620 Broadway, copy of open request  led by William (Bill) Kiel for copy of appeal to Board of Adjustment filed by Glenn Huddleston
9/29/2011	William Kiel	Copy of documents from Board of Adjustment and Architectural Review Board relating to 103 Katherine Ct (aka 4700 Broadway). Speciffically a variance BOA granted to Mr H Glenn Huddleston in 1996 or 1997.
9/30/2011	Kimberly Bragman	Want to see video tape regarding citation #E024860
10/2/2011
10/5/2011	Mary Faanunu (2)	Request all of the Commercial & Residential Structural Building permits (Single family homes, commercial buildings, additions, remodel, tenants improvements, patios, etc.) & swimming pools. Info needed for each permit; permit #, date, site address, valuation, description of work being done, contractor & owner Sept. 1-30, 2011
10/3/2011	Lazar Hausman	Copy of the 2 postcards regarding ARB case #395P
10/7/2011	Les Kutona	Copy of permits, work orders and photography regarding house move from 107 Eaton
10/7/2011	Tommy Reyes	A file of all current and delinquent taxes on real property
10/10/2011	Lisa Nichols	Copy of a list of neighbors notiffied for 625 Castano permit demolition
10/10/2011	Lucy S Perez (3)	Request a listing of each permit issued for new residential and commercial facilities as well as additions and renovation with baseline of $25,000. Also request the listing include the permits issued for inground swimming pools. The period covered is Sept 2011
10/10/2011	Larry Gottsman	Owners of 210 Routt and 321 Kampman and phone numbers, if any
10/11/2011	Robert Ruggiero	Copy of audio file for City Council Meeting: Oct 10, 2011
10/12/2011	Paul Casseb	Any variances submitted and or approved for building, Building Permits for 132 Woodway Lane (legal: lot 19, block 161 Alamo Heights, Tx)
10/21/2011	Tom Hall	Copy of ARB Minutes re: the approved neon sign for Cappy’s on May 10 and approval of neon sign for Cappycino’s on the rear of the building. Done sometime 1994-1998
10/21/2011	Iris Brede	Copy of open record request for reports made by police on Apts #204 and #108, 1215 Townsend Ave. (Townsend Place Apts) for Oct 1-21, 2011
10/24/2011	Robert Hutching	Copy of permits for plumbing, heating, electrical and roof approx. years 2005-2006 all the signed copies from city inspector for 134 Blue Bonnet Blvd.

NOTE: To save space, The ADVOCATE’s Open Records Requests to obtain the above are not shown.

Non-Alamo Heights Residents:
(1) Carole Bartholomew, 1423 Swallow Circle, Lewisville, TX Phone: (972) 318-0026
(2) Mary Faanunu, PO Box 2202, Cedar City, UT 84721. Phone: 1(800)925-6085 ext 130
(3) Lucy S Perez, HBW, Inc., 227 Merry Ann, San Antonio TX 78223. Phone: (210) 533-1131

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Advocate – November 2011

Open Records Request to City of AH
President’s Message – Tom Harmon
Haunted Heights
Crime Blotter – Alamo Heights Police

Open Records Requests to City of AH
From August 8, 2011 to September 15, 2011

8/8/2011	Mary Faanunu (4)	Copies of all the commercial and residential structural building permits (single family homes, commercial buildings, additions, remodels, tenant improvements, patios, etc.) and swimming pools, also permit #s, date, site address, valuation, description of work being done, contractor & owner. For July 1-31, 2011
8/9/2011	Dia Alyfantis	Copy of a general list of building permits $10,000 and up for May 2011 to current
8/12/2011	Fernando Centeno	Requesting dog park site, who decided and when that dog park would be designated without public participation
8/17/2011	Suzanne Bettac	Copies of all communications to or from OCO Architects relating to the new facilities project sent by or to City Council, City Manager or the Facilities Committee from 11 April 2011 until 1 July 2011. (2) Copy of contract with OCO related to Facilities.
8/30/2011	Mary Pena	Copies of following pertaining to 325 Argyle Way: (1) application for building permit. (2) building permit. (3) any and all inspection slips. (4) any documentation and/or certificates pertaining to indicating completion of the residence.
8/31/2011	Bonnie Hernandez	List of businesses that have requested a certificate of occupancy, list of new businesses that have requested a permit to open. From 7/1/11 to 8/31/11.
8/29/2011	Lucy S Perez (1)	Request listing of each permit issued for new residential and commercial facilities as well as additions and renovation with baseline of $25,000. Also request the listing include the permits issued for in-ground swimming pools. Period covered is Aug. 2011
9/1/2011	James M. Reeves	Request copies of employment applications for James Mosman also info re: awards, training, reprimands, complaints, disciplinary actions, performance evaluations, educational background, promotions, employment applications/resumes, professional qualifications and other information re: James Mosman
9/1/2011	Melissa Moga	Requesting a copy of an electronic, machine readable, export of the tax rolls accurately reflecting the current status of all accounts (current and previous years)
9/1/2011	Carole Bartholomew (2)	Copy of issued permits for the month of July listing contractor, job address, value, sq. footage, issued date or whatever you have on your monthly report.
9/2/2011	Frank Burney	Copies of all records, applications and correspondence Re: Board of Adjustment case #2153 filed by Glenn Huddleston and a list of current BOA members.
9/2/2011	Jady King (3)	Copies of building permits issued Aug 1-31, 2011 that cover residential construction valued over $30,000, commercial construction valued over $30,000 and all swimming pools
9/2/2011	Bebb Francis	Copies of the building permit and plans and the Cobb Fendley engineer’s traffic letter relating to 4620 Broadway
9/6/2011	Richard Clark	Copy of engineer report on 165 Harrigan Ct.
9/7/2011	Alex Glendenning	Copy of City’s investment policy
9/8/2011	David Ozuna	Monthly tax files (August)
9/8/2011	Mary Faanunu (4)	Copies of all the commercial and residential structural building permits (single family homes, commercial buildings, additions, remodels, tenant improvements, patios, etc.) and swimming pools, also permit #s, date, site address, valuation, description of work being done, contractor & owner for Aug 1-31, 2011
9/9/2011	Hans G Rohl	Copy of the average home appraised/assessed value in Alamo Heights by BCAD and that number for tax year 2010 or 2011
9/13/2011	Bebb Francis	Copies of the building permit for 4620 Broadway
9/14/2011	Robert Ruggiero	Copy of audio file for City Council meeting 9-12-11
9/15/2011	Donnelle Blahuta/ David Holck	Copies of all documents (plans, permits, applications, etc.) related to the construction and additions made to the residence at 307 Evans prior to 1995

NOTE: To save space, The ADVOCATE’s Open Records Requests to obtain the above are not shown.

Non-Alamo Heights Residents:
(1) Lucy S Perez, HBW, Inc., 227 Merry Ann, San Antonio TX 78223. Phone: (210) 533-1131
(2) Carole Bartholomew, 1423 Swallow Circle, Lewisville, TX Phone: (972) 318-0026
(3) Jady King, Construction Enterprise Information, 1206 W 43rd St,
Austin TX 78756. Phone: (512) 814-5892
(4) Mary Faanunu, PO Box 2202, Cedar City, UT 84721. Phone: 1(800)925-6085 ext 130

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GOING BACKWARDS OR FORWARDS?
Benjamin Franklin famously said, “the only things certain in life are death and taxes.” Everything else being subject to change, anyone over 40 can attest to numerous things that have evolved in their own lifetime to the point of either becoming unrecognizable or actually vanishing from the landscape as a product or technology. Well known brands, such as Pontiac, Squirt and Zenith disappear, being replaced by the likes of Scion, Red Bull and Vizio. New technologies abound, sending us from vinyl phonograph albums to CD’s and then MP3’s or iTunes. I was impressed recently at October’s auto/truck show by Ford Motor Company’s “MyTouch” technology, which acts as a visual display add-on to their SYNC voice command technology. It allows you to choose from climate, entertainment, navigation and vehicle mechanics/safety quadrants on a touch screen, to do things like increase speaker volume, check your fuel economy and find an Italian restaurant nearest you. Its WiFi capability and Smartphone input allows for software upgrades and the possibility of remote access diagnostics even as you drive.
It used to be that I thought my grandparents’ generation experienced the most change in a person’s lifetime. Being born in the 1890’s, they went from horse and buggy to men on the moon; the introduction of telephones for every household; the invention of radio and television, modern antiseptic surgery, CAT scans and so on. Nevertheless, ideas being worked on now will hopefully cause us to marvel just may cause us to marvel just as much as they did, and\ maybe steer us out of the economic doldrums we are in. The October issue of The Atlantic had an article about MIT’s Media Lab, where various disciplines housed in one building cross pollinate one another to propel new technologies into consumer’s lives. Some of the things they are working on include having our Smartphones give us eye exams and render conclusions about our wellness from our movements and call patterns; identifying new treatments for Epilepsy, Parkinson’s and other brain disorders by treating the brain as a computer that can be engineered and fixed; creating truck-based 3D “printers” that can construct buildings using all types of materials to create on-site components that build upon themselves; and creating living spaces that use shape shifter technology to transform a room from an office to an apartment to a gym.
For us to maximize the potential for the introduction of these technologies though, they need to be coupled with their availability to as many people as possible. This depends upon many factors, both local and international, ranging from the hoped for peaceful integration of all segments of the new societies developing in the Middle East into functioning, less natural resource based economies; the development of greater domestic demand and less dependency on exports by the Chinese: to the restoration to former health of the American middle class. The advancement of American society to the pinnacle of civilization was made possible by the creation of a mass audience for those color TV’s and other goods pumped out by Motorola and Detroit. If the current administration, Congress, think tanks or others cannot figure out how to reverse our own diminishing middle class, it will leave fewer and fewer of our countrymen able to afford the newer technologies, making them both more expensive and less impacting across the board. It may come to pass that the Chinese, Brazilians or Indians can fulfill the consumer role that Ma and Pa Kettle or Joe Sixpack once served, but the changes seen then by our children and grandchildren would more likely be the backward type. Therefore, as we move further into the new millennium, let’s hope that the advances made in our science and technology labs are matched by the actions of our economists and political class, to enable parity in supply and demand for the greatest benefit of all.

Editor’s Note
This ADVOCATE went to press just before the Alamo
Heights bond election on Nov. 8. Next month’s issue
will have complete election coverage. We expect the
voters will approve the $6.3 million bond issue although
with the smallest turnout in the past two years.

John Joseph

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Criminal Mischief 10/12/11 200 blk. Albany
A sliding glass door was damaged by a possible air rifle projectile. It is unknown if the damage was accidental or intentional.

Theft 10/06/11 7200 blk. Broadway
Laptop computer was stolen from an office while the owner was away
for lunch.

Theft 10/03/11 100 blk. Arcadia
Lawn furniture was stolen from a patio

Theft 10/01/11 300 blk. Wildrose
An air compressor was stolen from a driveway when the owner went
inside to answer a telephone call.

Theft 9/27/11 4600 blk. Broadway
Two air conditioner units were stolen from a vacant building.

Vehicle Burglary 9/22/11 1000 blk. Cambridge Oval
Vehicle parked in the street was forcibly entered to steal a purse sitting in open view on the front seat.

Theft 9/17/11 300 blk. Wildrose
Fed-Ex package delivered to a front porch was stolen before the owner
returned home.

Vehicle Burglary 9/16/11 200 blk. Argo
Vehicle parked in a driveway was illegally entered to steal property left in open view. No signs of forced entry.

Theft 9/13/11 4800 blk. Broadway
A purse was stolen from a shopping cart while the owner was distracted selecting items for purchase.

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Advocate – October 2011

Founder’s Corner – John Joseph
President’s Message – Tom Harmon
Smooth Start to 2011-2012 School Year
Site Plan – Proposed City Hall Complex
Wine & Dine in ’09
Crime Blotter – Alamo Heights Police
Open Records Request to City of Alamo Heights

2009 vs. 2011
What a difference two years makes!
In the Nov. 8, 2011 election AHNA and I strongly support the Proposition for a new City Hall. In 2009, as you may recall, we strenuously opposed it.
Two years ago, although opposed to the $10.3 million project, we loudly and often said there was a definite need to improve the existing City Hall complex. I never heard anyone ever argue there wasn’t a need then (much less now). The problem in 2009 was the price tag, plus many voters disliked the proposed architecture.
In Nov. 2009 Alamo Heights voters loudly said No Way! … and they rejected the $10+ million City Hall by a lopsided margin of over 70% to less than 30%.
This time the City, specifically the new City Manager, Mayor and entire City Council did everything exactly right. In 2009, to put it mildly, they did not. Two years ago the City and the people they hired did just about everything as wrong as they possibly could.
A lot has changed in the intervening two years, except the need for new facilities has grown even more acute.
$48k or $425k?
This year the City paid $48,000 to a team of interim architects for all the necessary preliminary work. In 2009 Alamo Heights paid the architects $425,773 for their design work leading up to that election. The striking difference in those amounts is shocking enough, but the real difference between the two approaches was not the end result, it’s how the architects reached the finish line.
In 2009 the City held meetings for the staff and Council to which the public was invited.  These were billed as “public meetings”, but the public really was never allowed at any of them to offer meaningful input. It was as if they were scheduled so someone could scratch “Public Meetings” off a checklist. Since the City hadn’t listened to residents in the summer of 2009 they felt the need to mail multiple, expensive full-color, and expensive four-page brochures to everyone in town in the fall.
This summer, by comparison, the City held three very public meetings. Residents were invited to eat hamburgers at the Fire Station and to tour the facilities to see them firsthand. Then the City’s interim architects did something really strange yet remarkable—they actually l-i-s-t-e-n-e-d carefully to all sides at those public meetings. They took that input and incorporated much of it before the next meeting. Each time it was the same story. It was truly revolutionary to see the project evolve over the summer.
In 2009 the City and its architects decided everything in a vacuum without listening to the citizenry. Had they really listened they would have realized the project was in deep trouble and was headed for a train wreck. But they “knew what’s best” for us. This year there were no slick brochures, just simple postcards inviting residents to community meetings in their own neighborhoods. The difference between
2011 and 2009 is the difference between explaining and selling. Much credit is due to our new City Manager, Dr. Mark Browne, for keeping a steady hand on the wheel. He’s avoided all the bumps in the road, plus he has avoided driving the bus off the cliff like in 2009.
Unfortunately, 2009 was exactly the opposite of 2011. Although to her
credit, it is said that then City Manager Becky Waldman (who abruptly “retired” six weeks before that election) strongly objected to hiring Lake-Flato. One or possibly two of the previous City Council members apparently favored Lake-Flato and, unsurprisingly, they got the job. No one really understands how the 2009 architects were allowed to run up a $425k bill on a project that hadn’t even been voted on. Apparently most voters didn’t like the resulting contemporary design. The rest is history.
$6.3m is $4m less than $10.3m
The only good thing that came out of 2009 is our City’s leadership, who was there then and is still on Council, quickly learned from their mistakes. They did a big 180! The good news is the voters saved $4 million by giving a thumbs-down in 2009.
Last year Mayor Louis Cooper appointed a Facilities Committee to find a solution that would be acceptable to most residents. Interestingly, I believe all six of those committee members voted against Prop. 1 in 2009. The committee had two architects, a commercial contractor, an attorney/CPA/entrepreneur and a travel agent (me). We met dozens of times for 3-4 hours each and had many healthy disagreements, but the result is the current, realistic $6.3m project. (See the Site Plan)
In 2009 we were told the City Hall could never be built for under $10.3m. We now know that was dead wrong. This year’s project has everything the City needs and, even though it is two years later, the price has come down $4m. In 2009 I publicly said the project should’ve cost $5m. I think time and facts have validated that. Two years ago, if things had been done differently, it could have been built for $5 $5.5m. Given the cost increases in material, especially metals, since then I think $5m was fairly accurate back then. But the actual price of the bond then was double that and the voters rightly rejected the $10.3m City Hall Taj Mahal.
Now we have a viable, attractive, reasonably priced alternative that is no Taj Mahal.
If you are even remotely thinking about voting against the Proposition on Nov. 8 (since there’s only one Proposition on the ballot this time it is not numbered) please do yourself, your fellow residents and the Fire and Police Departments a big favor. Take 15 minutes, stop by the Fire Station and ask to look around. If you haven’t visited there lately, you will be stunned at the deplorable conditions the  firefighters and EMTs live and work in. There is one room for eight firefighters to sleep in dorm-style, and only one shower.
On Nov. 8 I’m voting YES on the Proposition and I hope you will too.

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CITY MERITS NEW FACILITY
During the past few weeks, the City of Alamo Heights continued its community outreach concerning the proposed new fire, police and administrative complex, the bond issue for which will be on the Nov. 8 ballot.
The first of six neighborhood informational meetings took place at St. Peter Prince of Apostles Catholic Church on Oct. 5. The others followed on separate dates and locations, ending on Oct. 20. If you missed your neighborhood meeting, further details can be found on the City’s website at www.alamoheightstx.gov. Citizen comments and observations that were elicited from earlier public meetings in July and August contributed to the plans for the proposed new facility and I expect the additional feedback received more recently was appreciated as well.
With the proposed new facility, the police department will be able to get out of their cramped quarters and our firefighters will finally have adequate living quarters, as well as a day room, kitchen and administrative offices and appropriate accommodations for their nine vehicles.
The proposed plan calls for a new administrative building to face and be contiguous under a shared roof with the police quarters, which saves money by avoiding the duplication of cross beneficial space. To save even more money, City Council has gone on record as supporting, to the extent it is viable from a thorough inspection, the adaptive reuse of the present City Hall building for a good portion of the police department structure. But there is more good news.
Any additional tax burden created by passage of the Nov. 8 bond issue has already been at least partially if not totally off set by the recent reduction in everyone’s property insurance premiums due to the change in the City’s fire rating, which improved the City of Alamo Heights from an ISO (Insurance Service O ce, Inc.) class 5 to an ISO class 2 rating, on a 1-10 rating system, with 1 being the best and 10 being the worst. This was made possible by the efforts of our fire department, which presented as evidence in favor of the change, the purchase of a new ladder truck, as well as investments in the city’s water distribution system and our emergency dispatch communications center. Only 1% of all communities surveyed in the nation received an ISO rating of 2. This entitles Alamo Heights residents to a maximum credit on their property insurance premiums (class 1 and class 2 receive the same credit). This typically translates to an estimated 10 15% decrease in homeowner’s insurance premiums. For an annual property insurance premium of $2,000, this should mean a reduction of at least $200 a year. If that did not happen to you, be sure your insurance agent is aware of this change. Compare that to the City’s projection (based on a $6.3 million bond issue and an estimated 4.5% fixed interest rate leading to a tax rate increase of $0.041) that the owners of a $355,000 home would see an increase of about $146 a year on their property taxes. Our city employees’ efforts to bring that about provides an additional element in favor of the bond’s passage. In addition, operating costs should be reduced from lower utility costs arising from the installation of more energy effcient equipment, windows and insulation.
All in all, the level of effort put forth to both communicate with the voters and to develop a well crafted and financially conservative plan to meet a demonstrated need, leads me to ask for your support in seeing that the Proposition passes on the ballot in November. Should you still have any questions, go to the City’s website or ask one of your City Councilmen for any additional information.

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Alamo Heights ISD has had a wonderful start to the school year! Nearly 4,800 students have enrolled in school this year – our largest enrollment in 42 years. We have had a very smooth beginning.

COLLEGE READINESS – TOP 1% IN USA
The year began with the good news that the Washington Post ranked Alamo Heights High School as one of the top 1% of high schools in America. The criteria for the ranking involved college readiness, something we care about greatly. In the class of 2011, 96% of AHHS students are attending a college or university this fall. Although the high ranking is a well-deserved honor for the high school, it also reflects tremendous work by our teachers from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade, as well as strong parent and community support. We should all be very proud of our students’ accomplishments.
RECORD ENROLLMENT & BOND CONSTRUCTION
With our extra large enrollment this year, it is fortunate that we were able to complete a lot of construction before students arrived. At Woodridge Elementary, we were able to add nine additional spaces for classroom instruction without adding any square footage. That addressed the needs of our students while keeping our costs low. Woodridge has grown to 930 students this year. At the high school, major work was completed to stabilize thefoundation in some areas, and we are in the middle of completing a new fine arts complex expansion. We hope to have students in that building before school dismisses in May. Solar panels will be installed at Woodridge and AHHS early in 2012, providing much needed income to the district. Additionally, the fine arts facility at the high school should be completed in late spring to accommodate the increasing number of students in strings, choir and band. Work on Howard and Cambridge will begin next year.
HEROIC STAFF
Although the state cut $2.3 million in funds to AHISD, our staff is committed to providing the highest quality education to our children. They come to work every day with a positive attitude, ready to serve our children. They have not allowed these cuts to diminish their love of teaching, dedication to their students, or their sense of fellowship with each other. I am proud to work with our outstanding team to serve your children and grandchildren.
Have a great school year!

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SITE PLAN – PROPOSED CITY HALL COMPLEX

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WINE & DINE
in ’09
THE PHANTOM FOODIE

NOTE: To encourage everyone to “wine and dine in ‘09” to help keep the restaurants that we have now, The ADVOCATE has launched this column to regularly provide review restaurants and bars in the Alamo Heights area in an unbiased manner. The Phantom Foodie will anonymously visit local establishments, pay in full for all food and drink charges, and regularly give unbiased opinions based on a lifetime of devotion to gourmet cooking and fine dining. When asked “what are you making for dinner?” The Phantom Foodie usually answers: “Reservations!” You are encouraged to patronize the restaurants and bars we have along Broadway. That’s the only way we can keep them here.

Hitch up the wagon, pile the family in and head over to Broadway and Alamo Heights’s newest eatery, a barbecue place called the RUSTY BUCKET BBQ at 6421 Broadway at the corner of College Blvd. in the old rock faced service station. Apparently it’s really true what they say about BBQ restaurants in former gas stations!
The Rusty Bucket describes their prize-winning pit smoked BBQ as “jaw smackin’” and it really is. Enjoy a simple meal either outside among the picnic tables or go inside where cool A.C. and lots of old toys and license plates on the walls and ceiling will aid the digestion. There are even ‘green boards’ on the lower walls with plenty of chalk to keep your lil’ budding Georgia O’Keefes or Norman Rockwells sketching away while you order at the counter.
This is the best smoked BBQ for miles around and moderately priced. You can buy smoked meats (brisket, sausage, ribs, turkey, chicken or pork loin) by the pound and sides of Mac or potato salad, pinto beans, cream corn, coleslaw or spicy green beans by the pint or quart. They also have beef jerky by the halfpound or pound. Eat in or order to go. Pick and choose–there are even Family Orders of meats by the pound with sides, plus a gallon of tea (the priciest item on the menu, but enough to feed the whole posse).
The smoky flavor is just right, with a bit of crusty edges on the meat yet moist inside so that you don’t even need to slather on any of their sauce, unless you really like sauce. (I don’t.) Even the ribs are very moist and juicy, never greasy or salty. Quench your thirst with ice tea, sodas or cold water.
For lunch try a combo plate of one, two or three meats, plus two sides of your choice. Or a sandwich of any of the meats chopped with a split sausage on top (absolutely the best!) which also comes with chips and tea. If you prefer, get a side instead of chips. Just tell ’em…for less than $1 more, you can substitute any side. My favorite is the turkey/sausage sandwich with the Mac salad, a cold macaroni salad with  flecks of green onion and cheddar cheese in a very light mayo mix.
Potato salad is just right and the slaw is tangy and crisp. To my taste, the cream corn is a little runny and the spicy green beans a bit hot. But others who’ve tried these sides pronounce them just right. You be the judge.
Hi-ho-Silver! Try the Lone Ranger Combo if you can’t make up your mind about what to order. Get this sandwich of chicken, brisket and sausage packed on a sesame seed bun. It’s excellent! And if you’re still needing a little more to tide you over for the ride home, try the peach and apple cobbler with ice cream. Just be sure to let your belt out a notch or two.
On their menu the Annis and Rhodes families thank Alamo Heights for welcoming them to the neighborhood. The Phantom Foodie says: thanks to them for coming our way with such fine chow.

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Theft 9/17/11 300 blk. Wildrose
Fed-Ex package delivered to front porch was stolen before owner returned home.

Vehicle Burglary 9/16/11 200 blk. Argo
Vehicle parked in residential driveway was illegally entered to steal property left in open view. No signs of forced entry.

Theft 9/13/11 4800 blk. Broadway
A purse was stolen from a shopping cart while owner was distracted shopping.

Theft 9/12/11 200 blk. Halcyon
Fed-Ex package delivered to front porch was stolen before owner returned home.

Theft 9/08/11 100 blk. W. Elmview
Property owner reported evicted tenant stole all the kitchen appliances, bathroom fixtures and ceiling fans. AHPD Detectives recovered stolen property valued at $18,000.

Theft 9/08/11 200 blk. Encino
Resident reported several items of value stolen from the home over a short period of time. Housekeeper is suspected.

Vehicle Burglary 9/07/11 5000 blk. Broadway
Vehicle parked in commercial parking lot was forcibly entered and a carry bag in open view was stolen.

Theft 9/01/11 200 blk. Claywell
UPS package delivered to front porch was stolen before owner returned home.

Theft 9/01/11 300 blk. Alta
Miscellaneous tools stolen from unsecure garage area.

Vehicle Burglary 8/30/11 5300 blk. Broadway
Vehicle parked in a commercial parking lot was unlawfully entered and
a laptop computer left on the front seat in open view was stolen. There
were no signs of forced entry to the vehicle.

Theft 8/30/11 900 blk. Cambridge Oval
Lawn equipment left in open view was stolen from the back of an
unattended pick-up truck.

Vehicle Burglary8/26/115000 blk. Broadway Vehicle parked in a commercial parking lot was unlawfully entered by breaking a window. Property left in open view on the seat was stolen.

Vehicle Burglary 8/25/11 100 blk. Vanderhoeven
Four vehicles were forcibly entered and sound systems stolen. Cable company employee working nearby provided description of suspects and their vehicle.

Credit Card Abuse 8/24/11 1000 blk. Townsend
Multiple credit cards were stolen from an unattended wallet. Numerous
unauthorized transactions were made in the San Antonio area within hours.

Credit Card Abuse 8/23/11 4900 blk. Broadway
A wallet was stolen while owner was shopping. Numerous unauthorized transactions using credit and debit cards were reported in various parts of San Antonio.

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Open Records Requests to City of AH
From June 3, 2011 to august 1, 2011

Click for larger image

Non-Alamo Heights Residents:

(1) Yael Vinciguerra, Construction Enterprise Information, 1206 W 43rd St, Austin TX 78756. Phone: (512) 814-5892
(2) Carole Bartholomew, 1423 Swallow Circle, Lewisville, TX Phone: (972) 318-0026
(3) Lucy S Perez, HBW, Inc., 227 Merry Ann, San Antonio TX 78223. Phone: (210) 533-1131
(4) Mary Faanunu, PO Box 2202, Cedar City, UT 84721. Phone: 1(800)925-6085 ext 130
(5) Jady King, Construction Enterprise Information, 1206 W 43rd St, Austin TX 78756. Phone: (512) 814-5892

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Advocate – September 2011

President’s Message – Tom Harmon
City Manager’s letter – Mark Browne
Open Records Requests to City of AH
Wine & Dine in ’09 – The Phantom Foodie
Crime Blotter – Alamo Heights Police
Hover Sprinkler Fund Raiser

Bond for New City Facilities To Be on Nov. 8 Ballot
On Aug. 29 City Council approved putting to the voters on Nov. 8 a proposal for a $6.3 million bond to construct a new Fire Station, Police Station and combination City Hall/City Council Chamber. The dollar amount establishes a cost ceiling, not a floor, and is $4 million less than what was proposed in 2009.
The City’s interim architects presented numerous alternative footprints for the new facilities to the citizens, who provided feedback on the plans at three separate public meetings in July and Aug. Their suggestions were incorporated into the proposed new plans. It has not yet been determined whether this will be all new construction or if a portion of the current City Hall building will be renovated.
AHNA will continue to encourage City Council and the ultimate general contractor to utilize the current City Hall if at all possible, since the Council was advised this would save approximately half a million dollars or more.
Those who have visited the current Fire and Police facilities realize how antiquated they are. Many portions of the City complex do not currently meet Federal ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) guidelines, leaving us open for possible lawsuits.
AHNA supports City Council’s decision to let the voters of Alamo Heights decide this critical issue. We will provide more details in next month’s ADVOCATE.

How Not to “Waste” a Good Time
One of the most appreciated aspects of life in Alamo Heights is the ability to stroll around our beautiful neighborhoods while exercising our four-legged friends. With cooler weather finally on our doorstep, more of us will feel the urge to get out and do the same. One of the least appreciated side effects, however, is our neighbors’ annoyance at finding foreign canine fecal deposits on the lawn that they struggled to keep alive all summer. Not only is it unaesthetic, it’s a threat to the community’s health. This is because pet waste can threaten public health by virtue of their ultimate deposit in rivers and streams. Studies performed on watershed contamination in the Seattle area found that nearly 20% of the bacteria found in water supplies were matched with dogs as the host animal. Source Water Protection Practices, EPA Bulletin no. 916-F-01-027, July 2001. The same problem has contributed to the necessity to close offshore shellfish beds in Kitsap County, Washington. See Water Pollution Facts, City of Bremerton, WA, www.cityofbremerton.com.
Unfortunately, many pathogens found in animal waste can also infect humans if ingested. They include Campylobacter, Giardia lamblia, Salmonella, E. Coli and Cryptosporidium, the last of which is of particular concern because it is highly resistant to disinfection with chlorine. E. Coli bacteria often causes gastrointestinal infections, as well as infections to the ear, eye and throat, Campylobacter can cause diarrhea, and Salmonella can cause infections that trigger fever, muscle aches, headaches, vomiting and diarrhea.
It may have been with that in mind, or simply due to citizen complaints, that the City adopted Ordinance #1754 three years ago, which declares that it is a nuisance for one to allow an animal to defecate on public or private property other than his own. A violation may subject the perpetrator to a fine of up to $500. Included would be the contamination of public streets, which along with sidewalks and other hard surfaces, greatly accelerate the carrying of such wastes via storm water into local streams.
Although the remedy may be self evident, not all alternatives are equal in their desired effect. For example, pet wastes should not be put into compost piles or buried near vegetable gardens, for the same reason mentioned above, i.e., their disease-causing potential. If uncontaminated by other materials, pet waste can be flushed down the toilet. Alternatively, you can carry plastic bags on your outings, with oblong ones being best, such as those used to wrap your newspaper or bread, to grasp the droppings. You can then invert the plastic bag to easily enclose the material before knotting the other end and putting it in the garbage can upon your return home.
You may have noticed in last month’s ADVOCATE (available for viewing at myAHNA.com) an article and map of the pet waste stations recently installed by the City at six locations along La Jara Blvd. and the ball fields. AH NA’s Board of Directors just voted to fund the additional purchase and installation (at a different site still to be chosen at time of publication) of another pet waste station. The City reports that the existing stations are being utilized beyond expectations. Let me thank those who are already using them, as it benefits us all. I encourage other civic organizations or interested individuals to call Brian Chandler, the City’s Planning and Development Services Director, at (210) 832-2250, to sponsor their own stations. Having these scattered around town and frequently used would help remove one of the petty irritants of modern urban life. It also might ultimately save tax dollars as well, e.g., from the lowered cost of disinfectant usage. Anyone who wants to volunteer their property as a likely location should call Mr. Chandler as noted above.

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City Manager’s letter

Dear Residents,
I’d like to introduce myself as your new City Manager and to tell you how excited and pleased I am to be working in your beautiful city.
My previous job was City Manager of Terrell Hills, where I served for almost six years. Prior to that, I spent almost 27 years in the Air Force, retiring in 2005 while stationed at Randolph Air Force Base.
When I first started working in Alamo Heights, I spent time in staff briefings and meetings with City Council and residents, as well as spending a night in the fire station and riding on a sanitation truck on recycling day.
The training and professionalism of the staff and employees of the City is obvious. They are dedicated and committed to providing outstanding customer service to all residents of Alamo Heights. Additionally, I participated in the annual Police Awards ceremony where the officers and dispatchers were honored for their accomplishments in the preceding year. It was very impressive to see the amount of training and self-improvement these officers attained.
I also want to let you know that I’m available to address any concerns and issues that you face. We are working hard on plans for a possible new City Hall, as well as the budget for the 2011-12 fiscal year. Our future plans for the city include infrastructure repairs on the streets and water/sewer utility. We are emphasizing staff training and communication with our residents to provide the best service possible to the community. Please contact the department heads if there is a customer service issue.
Thank you for allowing me to serve you as City Manager. I pledge to listen to your concerns and work constructively toward solutions. In that manner, I hope to earn your trust. Working together we can accomplish even greater things for the City of Alamo Heights.

Mark Browne

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Open Records Requests to City of AH
From May 1, 2011 to June 2, 2011

5/2/2011	Yael Vinciguerra	Copy of building permits issued in 4-11 for residential construction valued over $30,000, commercial construction valued over $30,000 & all swimming pools
5/3/2011	Reed-Myron Glenn Jr.	Copy of traffic citation issued 4-27-11
5/3/2011	Tom Hall	1. copy of DoT permit issued to CoAH re work @ Mary D & Bdwy 2. Signed & dated copy of the signature pg of contract btwn CoAH & General Contractor to perform the work 3. Copies of & dates of any & all meetings, minutes &/or notes btwn City, George Geis &/or Cappy Lawton & gen’l contractor before &/or after contract was signed 4. name of contractor rep during these mtgs 5. name of the cmte who specified terms & conditions of contract & names of all on this cmte
5/5/2011	Jabril Mahdi	Copy of citation # 95705
5/6/2011	Suzy Bettac	Copy of list of all AH early voters from Bexar Cty Elections. Copies of all 8-day campaign reports
5/6/2011	Richard Kibodeaux	Copy of deed or tax records indicating occupants of 518 W Castano in 1964
5/6/2011	Sarah Reveley	Copies of any correspondence to/from Facilities Committee
5/9/2011	Robert Hasslocher	Copy of financial reports for Bill Kiel, Susan Harwell & Prop 3 PA C dated 8 days prior to election. Copies of 5/7 voters list
5/9/2011	Sybil Chenault	Architectural plans for 123 Alta (original 1935 & 1991 remodel)
5/11/2011	Robert Ruggiero	Audio file for 5-9-11 City Council meeting
5/13/2011	Bobby Rosenthal	Copy of list of registered voters
5/16/2011	Madelon Highsmith	Copy of Saturday’s voter list
5/17/2011	John Ferguson	Copy of all reports filed by “Friends of Alamo Heights” PA C in 2009 & 2010 re 11-3-09 special election
5/19/2011	John Joseph	All Public Info Act rqsts for past 18 months as of 5-19-11
6/1/2011	Carole Bartholomew	Copies of issued permits for 5-11 listing contractors, job address, value, sq. footage, issued date or whatever you have on your monthly report.
6/1/2011	Mary Faanunu	All Commercial & Residential Bldg permits (sngl family homes, commercial bldgs, additions, remodel, tentants improvements, patios, etc.) & swimming pools. Info needed for each permit: permit #, site address, valuation, description of work, contractor & owner.
6/1/2011	Yael Vinciguerra	Building permits issued in 5-11 covering residential construction valued over $30,000, commercial
6/1/2011	Aaron Farmer	Info on “Overnight Parking for Storage” ordinance
6/1/2011	Suzy Bettac	All Campaign reports due 7-15 by all candidates or PA CS
6/2/2011	Sarah Reveley	Copies of any correspondence or reports, etc re: inspection on 10-1-10 or thereabouts involving Brian Chandler & Nathan Lester & tenants Robin & Marco in Treehouse Apts #1102. Also copies of any correspondence involving action taken by CoAH construction valued over $30,000 & all pools
6/2/2011	Sarah Reveley	Copies of any correspondence re: 139 & 153 Harrigan after 2-14-11
6/2/2011	Lucy S Perez	Each permit issued 5-11 for new residential & commercial facilities plus additions & renovations with baseline of $25,000. Also permits issued for in-ground pools
6/2/2011	Jo Barnes	Copy of 5-23-11 City Council minutes & copies of comment cards (for or against) alley behind 200 Torcido

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New Feature…

WINE & DINE
in ’09
THE PHANTOM FOODIE

NOTE: In an effort to encourage everyone to “wine and dine in ‘09” to help keep the restaurants that we have now, The ADVOCATE is inaugurating This column by The Phantom Foodie. This new feature is an additional benefit brought to you by your neighborhood association. We hope to regularly provide information on restaurants and bars in or near Alamo Heights in an unbiased manner. Hence, The Foodie will anonymously visit local establishments, pay in full for all food and drink charges, and regularly give unbiased opinions based on a lifetime of devotion to gourmet cooking and fine dining.
When asked “what are you making for dinner?”The Foodie often answers: “Reservations!” You, gentle reader, are encouraged to patronize the restaurants and bars we have along Broadway.
Life is short. Start with dessert!
That’s what THE PHANTOM FOODIE, who not only has a sweet tooth.
So let’s start with the recently opened Tootie Pie Company Gourmet Café located at 5130 Broadway in the Stewart Center between Satel’s and the UPS Store. The pies are sumptuous and huge; they are sold whole or by the slice, even a la mode. Tootie’s “Original” Apple is where it all started (winning Blue Ribbons at county fairs and featured in Southern Living Magazine). But I crave Tootie’s Heavenly Chocolate Pie and Tootie’s Buttermilk Pie (the latter noted as one of the “Top Ten Pies in America” by Yahoo Travel); both are custard pies. Tootie’s Coconut Supreme Pie won the National Pie Championship, though I like Tootie’s Pecan Pie even better. but also a sweet tongue, always says.
But I digress. Not just Pie Company; check out the Gourmet
Café part… Breakfast (served anytime) can be anything from kolaches, cinnamon rolls, muffins and bagels (with eight cream cheese flavors as toppings) to Bagel Sandwiches (Omelet, Cucumber or Pacific Coast Salmon) with your choice of eight kinds of New York bagels. My favorite features Salmon (“lox”) on top of each side of an Everything (onion/garlic) bagel with cream cheese, a slice of ripe tomato, fresh dill, a sliver of red onion and capers. Generous portions. Share with a friend. Enough to feed an army, unless they are teenage boys or werewolves with serious appetites.
Start your day with various hot or cold coffees, espresso, cappuccinos and teas. Also juices, hot chocolate, smoothies (four fruit flavors) and be sure to check out the Specialties of the House (mixed with flavored syrups or additional ingredients) in two sizes – regular and large.
Lunch or light supper? Seven sandwiches on the menu include a Vegetarian and a Jalapeno-flavored Pimento Cheese, but the Sweet Chicken Salad and Albacore Tuna Salad are favorites. Or choose from three yummy meat/cheese Paninis (plus a Portobello and Spinach offering) served with a side salad. Try a cup or bowl of Tootie’s Signature Soup (roasted red pepper with smoked Gouda) or the Soup of the Day.
The name of the establishment derived from Ruby Feagan, a/k/a “Tootie,” who woke up every day at 3:00 AM to bake pies to support her family after her husband passed away in 1982 (she didn’t give up her day job). Her dream of a bakery eventually came to fruition (pardon the pun) in 2007 as the publicly traded Tootie Pie Co, Inc. (ticker symbol: TOOT). Tell that to your stockbroker! Tootie Pies are shipped nationwide and had been a kind of underground corporate gift-giving phenomenon, with frozen warehouse hubs in Fort Worth and San Antonio. Their holiday mail-order sales are strong and now they can also be found in grocery stores, but best of all, in their Cafes–now in Fredericksburg, Austin, Frisco and northwest San Antonio.
Open seven days a week, closing at 7:00 PM Monday through Saturday, and at 3:00 PM on Sunday. Either dine-in and to-go. Casual dining and very family friendly. Prices are reasonable ranging from $1.89 to $8.29.
But eat the sweets first! I’m slowly making my way through every pie Tootie makes and haven’t been disappointed yet.

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Criminal Mischief 8/21/11 Various
Officers reported finding numerous traffic control signs in the City defaced by markers. The writings strongly suggest Alamo Heights High School seniors were involved.

Recovered Stolen Vehicle 8/20/11 100 blk. Austin Hwy.
A vehicle stopped for a traffic violation was found to have been reported stolen. Subsequent investigation discovered a large quantity of narcotics, narcotics paraphernalia and alcohol. Two suspects were booked into jail on numerous criminal charges.

Attempted Theft 8/19/11 200 blk W. Castano
An officer on routine patrol interrupted the theft of a mountain bicycle. The suspect was able to elude officers in the darkness but the bicycle was returned to the owner.

Criminal Mischief 8/16/11 300 blk. Joliet
Resident reported that during the night someone slashed one tire on each of his two vehicles while they were parked in the driveway.

Burglary Business 8/15/11 600 blk. Austin Hwy.
Burglar entered a business by breaking out a window in an overhead door. Once inside the burglar made an unsuccessful attempt to break open a safe using tools on the business property.

Burglary Business 8/14/11 4700 blk. Broadway
A burglar entered a business by breaking out a side window. Once
inside the burglar stole money from a cash register and then broke
through a common wall to another business. Nothing was stolen from
the adjoining business.

Vehicle Burglary 8/14/11 Various
Six (6) unlocked vehicles were entered overnight by an unknown person(s) who rummaged through consoles and glove compartments. A GPS unit was stolen from one vehicle. These occurrences were in the 100 blk. E. Edgewood and the 200 blk. E. Oakview.

Vehicle Burglary 8/12/11 200 blk. Claywell
Three (3) unlocked vehicles were entered overnight by an unknown person(s) who rummaged through consoles and glove boxes. Cash was stolen from one vehicle, where a purse had been left on the seat.

Vehicle Burglary 8/9/11 4900 blk. Broadway
A vehicle was burglarized by breaking out a front side window to gain access to a laptop computer left in open view on the front seat.

Vehicle Burglary 8/8/11 5000 blk. Broadway
Vehicle was burglarized by breaking out a rear side window to gain access to a laptop computer and iPad left in open view on the back seat.

Vehicle Burglary 8/7/11 5800 blk. Broadway
A backpack and briefcase left in open view were stolen from a vehicle while unattended in a parking lot. The windows to the vehicle were left partially down allowing easy accessibility.

Burglary Arrest 8/2/11
Detective Mike Davis has made a significant arrest of an individual believed responsible for a high volume of burglaries in the San Antonio
area. Detective Davis identified the individual as a person of interest
through pawn records and linked him to a garage burglary in Alamo Heights. A large quantity of stolen property was recovered at the time of arrest, some of which was identified by the Alamo Heights victim. Detective Davis is working with San Antonio Police to locate the owners of the other property.

Burglary 8/1/11 1200 Townsend
Complainant reported that while he was taking a nap someone entered
his apartment through an open sliding door and stole a laptop computer.

Theft 7/31/11 400 blk. Lamont
Sporting equipment was stolen from an open garage.

Theft 7/30/11 200 blk. Chichester
Bronze statue was taken from a front porch

Vehicle Burglary 7/28/11 Various
Twelve (12) vehicle burglaries were reported overnight along Tuxedo, W. Fair Oaks, W. Castano, Evans and Encino. Vehicles were ransacked and nothing was stolen except cash, mostly in the form of loose change. All vehicles were left unlocked.

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Support the Alamo Heights
Neighborhood Association
AH NA is holding its first ever fund raiser! We are offering the Hover Sprinkler as the item to purchase with proceeds from this fund raiser to benefit the Alamo Heights Neighborhood Association.
The new invention by an Alamo Heights resident is especially welcome considering the blistering heat we have faced this summer. Call us at the numbers listed below for more details on the Hover Sprinkler and how the proceeds will be used for AH NA’s present and future endeavors.
AH NA benefits the community by being a voice at city council for
membership concerns, and advising the community about issues it feels are important to the City of Alamo Heights. Our newsletter also publicizes items of common interest, such as the Police Blotter’s listings of crimes which have occurred within the city, and new or unique places to eat. We are in the process now of sponsoring a new Pet Waste Station similar to those already existing along La Jara Blvd. In the past, we’ve put on free movies for the public in connection with Grande Communications, helped chaperone parades, and educated the public on upcoming elections via public forums where the candidates have spoken and addressed questions from the audience. Our members are also on various city appointed committees which provide input to City Council for determinations on city codes and facilities.
Alamo Heights Neighborhood Association (AH NA) is a Texas non-profit corporation(#801003964; approved July 14, 2008) of residents, property owners and businesses in the City of Alamo Heights who have come together to encourage fellowship and share information about our community and its government. The essence of good citizenship is to be an informed, responsive, caring and committed member of our community. To this end, we sponsor educational and social activities.
Anyone wanting to salvage or boost their lawn or garden’s appearance can now buy the Hover Sprinkler from AH NA for $38.00 (cash or check, including sales tax) at one of three locations in Alamo Heights. To make pickup arrangements, south Alamo Heights residents should call (210) 828-6444, midtown Alamo Heights residents can phone (210) 317 2635, and north Alamo Heights residents should call (210) 834-0590.
Alternatively, you can email your order to AH NAprez@gmail.com or AH NAA dvocate@gmail.com.
Proceeds from this fund raiser benefit the Alamo Heights Neighborhood Association.

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Published September 15, 2011

HOVER SPRINKLER SALES

The August issue of the “AHNA Advocate” includes an article describing the invention of the Hover Sprinkler by Alamo Heights resident Grant Pitzer.

The Stage 2 restrictions in this area, for which no end is in sight, essentially mandates at least some hand watering for the sunny areas of our landscapes to keep them from going brown. If you missed the article, you can view it under “Advocate Archives”, month of August, at myahna.com, or you can see the sprinkler demonstrated on You Tube by searching under “The Amazing Hover Sprinkler”. The Hover Sprinkler can now be bought from AHNA for the price of $38.00, including tax, when picked up from one of three locations in Alamo Heights. To make pickup arrangements, South AH residents should call (210) 828-6444, Midtown AH residents should call (210) 317-2635, and North AH residents should call (210) 834-0590. Alternatively, you can email your order to ahnaadvocate@gmail.com or AHNAprez@gmail.com.