A Newsle loyees tter for City of San Marcos Emp

July/August 2014 City Volunteers with Sunshine Kids Foundation By Melinda Clayton, Administrative Assistant

The Sunshine Kids did their annual invasion of Central Texas in June. San Marcos has been the headquarters for provid- ing local and regional activities for the campers for over 20 years. The free camp is for children ages 12-18 battling cancer and they arrive from cities all over the United States. This year the campers were from Orlando, Philadelphia, Chicago, Las Vegas, Charlotte, Raleigh, and Palo Alto.

The camp adds quality of life to children with cancer by providing them with exciting, encouraging group activities, so they may once again do what kids are meant to do…have fun and enjoy summer! Some of the highlights included; Sea World with a special meeting with Beluga whales, Schlitterbahn, horseback riding at Mittman Ranch, tour of DOUSED! The Sunshine Kids douse Mayor Daniel Guerrero with ice water as he issues his “cold water challenge” to raise funds for the Fallen Firefighters Texas State Capitol, motorcycle rides, tubing, and ending the charity. (Photo by Don Anders) stay with dancing at Dick’s Classic Garage. Volunteers with the City included City Manager Jared The annual camp requires many volunteers to help bring Miller and his whole family along with Mayor Daniel smiles, happiness and sunshine to the lives of about 25 chil- Guerrero. dren with the disease and their nurse attendants. Continued on Page 12 Everyday Heroes Above and Beyond to Save a Stray By Trey Hatt, had on her back,” said Animal Services Communications Specialist Manager Kara Montiel.

The little dog gave Animal Control Rita finally caught the little dog at 4 p.m. Officer Rita Hensley a merry chase Friday afternoon. over the course of a week—but she was running from her only hope of survival. “She came in the facility dripping wet with the dog wrapped up in towels to Rita saved a grievously injured dog after show me her injury,” Kara said. “Rita a week of daily attempts to catch her, thought for sure we would have to put including going out in a pouring rain her down because of the severity of her storm on a Friday afternoon before the injury, an old wound that had become end of her shift. infected. We suspect the dog had been hit by a car or fell out of a moving “She was persistent and knew that if she vehicle.” SLIGHTLY BEDRAGGLED BUT SAFE: Rita Hensley comforts the grievously didn’t catch this little dog, it would end injured little Ryta who is now recovering up dying due to the massive injury she and in safe hands of a rescue group. Continued on Page 12 1

SM NEWSLETTER FINAL PRINT.indd 2 2/24/11 8:22:04 PM Citizens Civic Academy Will Begin in Fall By Jared Miller, City citizens who better understand educated about city goals, duties and Manager our operations, our challenges processes, able to interact with city and our achievements—as well officials and personnel, and prepared The City of San as graduates who volunteer to fill appointed and elective offices Marcos has offered and support our public safety in the future. Citizen Police and Fire departments. Academies for many The Citizens Civic Academy will years—the Citizen We will start the first San Marcos provide an overview of all of our Police Academy started Citizens Civic Academy this fall operations—from the structure of city in the late 1990s and to familiarize citizens with the government to details on the duties of the Citizen Fire Academy in 2011. structure, functions and activities of each department and division. Dozens of residents have gone San Marcos city government . Our City government is a complex through these popular and well- creation—serving the essential needs planned programs. The academies Our objective is to create a cadre of of San Marcos residents, providing produce a dedicated group of well-informed citizens who are better public safety, supplying water, power and wastewater treatment, planning our future and building critical Kudos to YOU! infrastructure. Activity Center: Great Staff, Great Place! We promote community health, strong neighborhoods, quality of Dear Mr. Merritt: life, library, parks and recreational facilities, special events and My name is Jimmy Rodriguez and I have been a member of the San Marcos programs, and respond to Activity Center for over ten years. I wish to express my sincere appreciation for emergencies. We manage all the the wonderful job the entire staff has done over the past decade. operations of the city, assist the City Council, coordinate boards and The Activity Center is a great place to workout, it is safe, it is clean and the commissions, administer justice, staff promotes a healthy environment. safeguard the public purse, and keep the public informed. I would like to commend three particular members of your staff: Bruce Goltry, Holly Latham and Frank Oldham. These members of your staff go the extra So there is a lot to talk about! mile to provide excellent customer service. They are true professionals with regards to their duties. They follow up on problems reported to them to make Every department is contributing sure of proper resolution. The Activity Center is a better place because of them. to this effort and will help with I, for one, am thankful for that. presentations throughout the fall. I want to give a special thanks to Sincerely ACM Collette Jamison and Executive Jimmy Rodriguez Assistant, Sr., Holley Garcia for their wonderful help in putting the Library Love! course together and developing the presentations in coordination with I moved here from San Antonio last September. I lived all over San Antonio our departments. in my many years there and visited libraries in each neighborhood. I did not always have the best experiences, sad to say.

I just wanted to write and say how pleased I am with the San Marcos library, OUR WRITERS as a fairly new citizen of this city. Everyone is so pleasant and eager to help, River Scene is a bi-monthly newsletter pub- there is always something new and exciting to read, and there’s something for lished by the City of San Marcos for our everyone in my family, even the “non-readers”. :) employees. Editorial Board Members are: Melissa Millecam, Editor, Trey Hatt, Asst. Editor, Melinda Clayton, Cindy Conyers, Ste- The atmosphere is great and I just wish I had applied when you were hiring fanie Daily, Bobette Elliott, Jana Green, Janis for a clerk; it seems like a great place to work! For now I’ll have to be content Hendrix, Joni Jones, Denise Molina, Stepha- with weekly visits. nie Reyes, Denise Ryan, Karen Smith, Linda Spacek, Tammy Strakos, Kristy Stark and Renate Yanity. Contributors: Jared Miller and Awesome job! Don Anders. Copyright: July-August 2014. Sherri Durham

2 WELCOME! New Employees DIANA AMAYA Police Department where I am work- we have two sons, Rudy and Brandon WIC Clerk ing as a Parking Enforcement Techni- and one daughter, Brianna. I am ex- Community Services-WIC cian. cited to announce that we are expect- ing our first granddaughter in August I am the new clerk for the ALYSSA GARCIA and our first grandson in September. Lockhart WIC office. I Juvenile Case Coordinator I cannot wait to hold my grandba- live in Kyle with my husband, Rene Municipal Court bies!!! I enjoy spending time with my and two daughters, Kristal and Ruby. I family and I love spoiling my nephew love spending time with my family, as Hello everyone! I am the Nathan and niece Natalie. well as playing volleyball and swim- Juvenile Case Coordinator ming whenever possible. for the Municipal Court. I am origi- KATIE STEELE nally from Laredo, TX. I transferred to GIS Analyst SARAH CANTRELL Texas State from Laredo Community Information Technology Animal Shelter Technician College. I graduated class of 2013 Department Community Services-Envi- with a BA in Criminal Justice and a ronmental Health minor in Forensic Psychology. I am I grew up in Denton, Tex- 22 years old and have a great support as. I moved to Austin for a few years I am one of the newest San system back home with great parents, as soon as I graduated high school, Marcos Animal Shelter Technicians. I four sisters and one brother. I’ve lived then moved to San Marcos to finish just moved to San Marcos last Decem- in San Marcos for about three years college in the Geography Department ber to finish my degree in psychology and am very excited to be part of the with a focus in Resource and Environ- at Texas State University. I am a huge City of San Marcos team! mental Studies, as well as certificates animal lover and currently own a do- in GIS and water quality monitoring. mestic longhair cat. My hobbies in- AMY GILBERTSON I’m a GIS Analyst for the IT Depart- clude hiking, swimming, and singing. Library Page ment, and I am making maps for vari- I’m very happy to be here serving my Community Services- ous city departments. I love the river, new city! Library my dog, playing Balinese Gamelan guitar, and sports, as well as travel- CARLOS GARCIA I am originally from Iowa ling, being outside, spending time Master Fleet and moved to Texas 14 years ago. I with friends and family. Services Technician am currently a graduate student at Community Services-Fleet Texas State. I love spending time at MICHAEL WALKER the river here in the beautiful City of Information Technology I am originally from Chi- San Marcos, and I’m thrilled to be a Support Technician cago, but grew up in Texas. I will be part of the team at the library! Information Technology in the Fleet Department working with Department all City vehicles and shop, to keep the BRENDA LIMON City of San Marcos running. I enjoy 911 Telecommunicator Hello, all! I was born in Okinawa, the outdoors, sports, swimming, bik- Police Department Japan and had the honor of living in ing, but spend most of my time off Michigan, Florida, and finally Texas. with family. I look forward to meeting I am thrilled to be return- I work in the Information Technology and working with great people for the ing to the San Marcos Department, and look forward to a City of San Marcos. Police Department after departing in long career with the City. I have four 2005. I am originally from Brown- kids and have been married for 21 ROBERT FORE field, Texas and moved to San- Mar years. I enjoy doing outdoor activi- Parking Technician cos in 2003. My husband Rudy and ties, and again, I look forward to serv- Police Department I have been married for 22 years and ing this great community.

I have been a San Marcos resident for 34 years. I am Every Day Heroes - a Correction! retired Navy and retired from Ther- mon Manufacturing Company where It’s never too late to recognize those Everyday Heroes! We incorrectly I was the Quality, Safety and Environ- named the Transportation folks who rescued the poor girl who ran out of mental Systems Manager. I have been gas in the Hopkins/Thorpe intersection. Bruce Noel and Bryan Muery married for 51 years and have 3 chil- were there moving the car out of the road, and Ning Zou drove it to dren and 10 grandchildren. I enjoy safety. photography and like to travel. I am excited to be a part of the San Marcos

3 San Marcos Community Goes Smoke-Free By Trey Hatt, Communications Specialist Help for Employees The San Marcos community went smoke-free June 1 as a Expanded Smoking Cessation Prescriptions: stricter smoking ordinance took effect in bars, restaurants Chantix, Nicotrol, and Zyban (generic: and workplaces throughout the community. City grounds Buproban) are now included in smoking and facilities went smoke free on January 1, 2014. cessation products available on the City’s prescription plan. These prescriptions are “The City Council enacted this smoking ordinance because ONLY available at Align pharmacies and current co-pay struc- people have the right to breathe clean air where they tures apply with generics offered at a $0 dollar co-pay and work, dine, shop and play,” said Mayor Daniel Guerrero. brand names at a $30 co-pay. “We implemented the stricter ordinance provisions at City Well Coach Program: facilities and parks in January and now will extend it to Available to all employees and their household at NO cost, public places throughout San Marcos.” this benefit feature provides access to personal, confidential one-on-one health coaches who will help you in your smok- The San Marcos smoking ordinance: ing cessation decision. With one call or internet contact, you • Prohibits smoking in the enclosed areas of public places can start today on your individual journey with your own and workplaces, outside within 10 feet of entrances and personal Well Coach. windows and on City-owned or rented property, including parks, City facilities, City Hall and sports venues. and patrons and prevent violations, and to post signs • Defines “public places” as enclosed areas to which the designating areas where smoking is permitted. public is invited or permitted, including but not limited to • Allows businesses and workplaces to designate the banks, bars, bingo facilities, comedy clubs, indoor music entire facility as nonsmoking. venues, convention facilities, educational facilities, health • Exempts private residences, designated smoking rooms care facilities, laundromats, public transportation facilities, in a long-term care facility, hotel or motel, designated reception areas, restaurants, retail food production areas, outdoor areas of bars, restaurants, or lounges as well as retail service establishments, retail stores, shopping malls, retail tobacco and vape shops. sports arenas, theaters, and waiting rooms. • Levies graduated fines, upon conviction, beginning at • Includes e-cigarettes and other inhaled vapor devices in $200 for a first offense, $500 for second offenses and up to the definition of “smoking.” $2,000 for third and subsequent offenses. • Includes as smoke-free work areas: common work areas, auditoriums, classrooms, conference and meeting rooms, For more information about the ordinance, contact Mark elevators, hallways, medical facilities cafeterias, employee Brinkley, Assistant Director of Community Services, lounges, stairs, restrooms, and all other enclosed areas. Environmental Health, at 512.393.8440. Information about • Requires businesses and facilities to have conspicuous the benefits of living a smoke-free lifestyle and smoking no-smoking signs using the international no smoking cessation information can be found at www.sanmarcostx. symbol, requires owners or operators to inform employees gov/smokefree. Warren Zerr Retires after 32 years Assistant Police rant units. With the help of Rodney afterward, funding increased for needed Chief Warren Cobb, they went from using an ATV in police equipment, including radios and Zerr retired the parks to six horses. Many reserve handguns, Warren said. July 3 after a officers went on to become full-time 32 year career officers, including current officers Fred In 2001 Warren was transferred to Po- with SMPD. Wisener, Wayne Casteel, Danny Ar- lice Administration as the Commander. He joined the redondo and Tracy Balusek (who also In 2004 he was transferred to patrol as department retired July 3). the day shift Commander and in 2007 December 26, he was promoted to Assistant Chief. 1981 and rose Warren became an Administrative During his tenure, 911 Communica- through the Sergeant covering internal affairs, hir- tions has grown to a staff of 26 with a Chief Howard Williams and Assistant Chief Warren Zerr. ranks to Assis- ing and supervising the Traffic Unit. In communications supervisor and four tant Chief. 1992, he supervised Criminal Investi- shift supervisors. gations and in 1999 was promoted to Warren worked on patrol shifts for four Commander. Warren spearheaded the construction of years and then became the depart- a new range building as well as up- ment’s Reserve Coordinator. He built In May 1995, Warren and colleagues dated digital video equipment for patrol the reserve officer program from six to John Luna, Dave Waugh and Danny cars. His latest effort is for Automated 25 officers in less than a year, creating a Arredondo founded the San Marcos Vehicle Location devices in police cars, program that became a model for larger Police Officers Association. SMPOA which will enable dispatchers to see city departments. successfully advocated for raising the the location of police vehicles. War- retirement match from 5% to 7%, not ren testified before the Criminal Justice The reserve program provided field only for police but all City employees. Committee in Austin and won a federal training and established patrol, mount- An effort to win voter approval for col- grant for the equipment. The equipment ed patrol, missing children and war- lective bargaining in 1997 failed, but Continued on Page 11 4 Employee BBQ Fundraiser Aids Local Charities The City of San Marcos Employee Advance tickets for Group held its first BBQ Fundraiser lunch were available Event on Thursday, June 26 at the for COSM employees Activity Center. This was the first to purchase, including summer fundraising event of this kind. a $5 meal ticket (bar- Employee Group Committee mem- beque sausage wrap, bers opted to try something different chips and a drink) or for the summer event – to sell lunch a $3 wrap-only ticket. items with profits benefiting local The barbeque was charities. prepared on site by highly-skilled bar- The event benefited three organiza- beque grill experts in tions including the American Heart the COSM Employee Association, Hays-Caldwell Women’s Group Committee. Center & K9s for Wounded Warriors LUNCH BREAK! Jennifer Shell and Doug Montgomery, at left, Program. Representatives from these The COSM Employee and Bobette Elliott and Phil Steed, at right dig in for some great organizations were present at the Group discussed initial sausage wraps for a good cause, served by Adam Rossing with event so employees could learn more and long-term goals the Employee Group. about them and their needs. Although for this type of event. the entire community with the aim of donated items were not requested at For this first year, the group decided promoting the importance of commu- this event, employees were able to to offer it to COSM employees only nity citizens serving San Marcos and discover ways to get involved with the in order to pilot test its success and getting involved with the charitable initiatives of these organizations – all acceptability. For future years, this organizations that are in need of as- while receiving an enjoyable lunch. type of event may be opened up to sistance. Congratulations, Graduates! By Bobette Elliott, church activities and working a part Xavier Marmolejo graduated from San Administrative Assistant, Legal Dept. time a job. His plans are to continue Marcos High School on June 6. Proud his education at Austin Community Col- parents are Freddy Marmolejo, 911 Jeff Clark, Fire Battalion Chief, and his lege then transfer to Texas State Univer- Communications Manager and his wife, wife Susan’s twin sons, Sterling and sity. Melissa. Xavier will attend St. Edwards Spencer Clark both graduated from University in the fall. His major is psy- Canyon High School in New Braunfels. Adamina Ynez Gonzales graduated June chology. Sterling will be attending the Naval 6 from San Marcos High School. Her Academy and Spencer will attend Texas proud mother is Yvette Gonzales, Util- Charlie Randy Newby graduated from A&M University in the fall. ity Customer Service Clerk/SMEU. Ad- San Marcos High School on June 6. amina participated in the Arts & Com- Charlie is the son of Dalinda Newby, Diane Insley, Division Manager for the munications Academy and excelled Community Initiatives Technician and City’s library is thrilled about her daugh- in Digital Arts and Theatre Production her husband Ray. Charlie won a leader- ter Mary Davis’ recently earning her VASE visual arts competition, winning ship award in Marching Band, was a EC-6 with ESL Teacher’s Certification two first place awards for her digital art member of Future Farmers of America from St. Edward’s University of Austin. entries and creating backdrops for the and was captain of the San Marcos high school theatre plays. Adamina High School Ultimate Frisbee Team. Lyndsey Nicole Garza graduated from plans to develop her digital media web- Charlie will attend Austin Community the University of Missouri on May 16 site and continuing her arts education. College and culinary school in prepara- with a BS in journalism, a BA in psy- tion for a career in culinary arts. chology and a minor in business! Her Tiffany R. Henley graduated on May 17 mother, Melinda (Mindy) Garza is a with a Master’s of Educational Adminis- Carlos Rodriguez, Accounting Special- Database Administrator for Information tration with a focus in Higher Education ist for the Finance Department and his Technology. She is so happy about her Leadership at the University of Texas at wife Stephanie’s son Spencer Rodri- daughter’s accomplishment. El Paso. Tiffany is the daughter of Francis guez graduated from Wimberley High Serna, Development Services Adminis- School. Spencer’s plans are to enlist in Bobette Elliott, Admin. Assistant for the trative Coordinator. the U.S. Marine Corp later this year. Legal Department is very proud of her grandson Brock Gayaut. He graduated Brenda Limon, ECO, Police Depart- Jacob Rodriguez recently graduated from James Bowie High School in Aus- ment and her husband Rudy are proud from New Braunfels High School. His tin on June 7. Brock was very active for of their daughter, Brianna Marie Limon proud father is Rumaldo Rodriguez, four years playing the French horn, first for her graduation from San Marcos Electric Engineering Tech for SMEU. chair position in the Top Band (Wind High School. Brianna will attend Austin Jacob’s plans are to attend San Antonio Ensemble), Marching Band placing first Community College in the fall and then College in the fall, then begin a career in the Bands of America competition, plans to transfer to Texas State Univer- in law enforcement. plus participating in numerous other sity. Continued on Page 9 school activities, volunteer projects, 5 Police Awards Celebrate Heroism, Outstanding Service

San Marcos Police Chief Howard Williams honored officers, prosecutors, staff and citizens for distinguished service and heroism at the annual awards ceremony Wednesday, May 14 at the San Marcos Activity Center. Chief Williams awarded the Medal of Honor Life Saving Medal, Police Commendation Medal and Distinguished Service Award to officers and citizens whose professionalism, courage and dedication saved lives, solved crimes, and supported law enforcement efforts in San Marcos.

Citizen Police Academy Alumni-top volunteers. Chief Williams Honors Bo Rivers- citizen support for department.

Chief Williams Honors Officer Mike Casillas for investigatory skills in Chief Williams Honors Ryan Hartman for intervening in a child abuse a bank robbery. situation.

Chief Williams Honors Rich Mizanin for protecting a kidnap victim. Chief Williams Honors Dustin Slaughter for performing CPR on a heart attack victim. 6 Jehu Derrickson, master of ceremonies. Police Chaplain Bill Glasgow.

Outstanding prosecutors: Lisa Tanner, Missy Wolfe, Sherri Tibbe, and Honor Guard. Roya Williamson, Victims Services Coordinator in a 35-year old capital murder case.

Officers honored for outstanding service in a dangerous hostage situation.

Distinguished Service Awards for roles in a murder/ aggravated assault case.

7 Taggart is ‘Top Public Works Leader of Year’ Tom Taggart, Executive Director of sitioned from total reliance Public Services, recently was honored on the Edwards Aquifer for its by the Texas Public Works Association water supply to surface water as the “Top Public Works Leader of from Canyon Lake. Today the Year.” we use about 93% of surface water and only 7% from the Tom has worked for the City of San aquifer. Marcos for 14 years, first serving as the Director of Water/ Wastewater He has been a key negotiator Utilities and promoted in 2008 as the in the Edwards Aquifer Recov- Executive Director of Public Services. ery Implementation Program for the City of San Marcos, Mayor Guerrero, Tom Taggart and Council Member Shane Tom leads the City’s Water/ Waste- helped the region achieve the Scott (Photo by Don Anders) water, Electric, and Transportation ser- Habitat Conservation Plan that vices divisions. These groups provide is protecting and preserving our river. through the year 2060. essential services, including all of Tom also serves as a voting member our water, wastewater, and electric of the EAHCP Implementation Com- He also has been a key negotiator utility operations, storm water collec- mittee. for the City of San Marcos, a retail tion system, and maintenance of our customer of the Lower Colorado River streets and traffic signals. He manages Tom helped found the Hays-Caldwell Authority, as we became a partner in budgets of more than $95 million. Public Utility Agency, a joint venture the ownership of the Thomas Fergu- between San Marcos, Kyle, Buda and son Power Plant, a natural gas fired Tom has provided significant guid- several regional water corporations plant undergoing reconstruction. This ance as the City of San Marcos tran- to establish future water supplies investment will help the city maintain stable and competitively priced rates over the long term.

City Website Honored by TAMIO Tom also serves as on boards of the The City of San Marcos South Central Texas Regional Water won the Texas Associa- Planning Group (Region L), HCPUA tion of Municipal Infor- Board, Chairman of the Guadalupe mation Officers’ “Award Basin Coalitoin, Vice President of the of Excellence” for our Texas Water Reuse Coalition, liaison outstanding City website to the Citizen Utility Advisory Board, at the TAMIO state con- and is a member of many state and ference in June. national professional organizations. “Sanmarcostx.gov” has more than 4,200 pages and just shy of 20,000 Mayor Guerrero, Trey Hatt, Melissa Millecam, Council Member Shane City Projects Win links to documents, Scott, Denise Molina, Tammy Cook and Liz Trevino (Photo by Don An- services and key infor- ders) PTI Honors mation about every City department. Our website has gotten 947,585 hits and The Public Technology Institute more than 2.3 million page views in the past year. (PTI), recognized two City projects in their 2013-2014 Technology The websites supports services to our community in hundreds of ways - from Solutions Awards as Significant job seekers, to paying bills, signing up for classes, volunteering for city boards Achievements. - and the latest news on what’s happening. Under the heading Energy & The task of maintaining our website rests with our Communications Depart- Environment Technology, the City ment, Information Technology and our 60-member Web Team, who represent was recognized for the project every department in the City. They keep the information that flows to our citi- Boil Water Notification Planned / zens current and accurate. After a redesign in 2012, the City website continues Unplanned. The second project to be maintained in-house and hosted on Vision Internet, a nationally recog- nized technology company specializing in municipal websites. recognized was SMTX Connect under Web Management & E- The City website also won the 2013 National Association of Government Web- Government. masters “Pinnacle” award for the best website in our population group as well as the 2013 NAGW Sponsor’s Award presented by Site Improve, a company Congratulations to everyone that that checks our site weekly for broken links and misspellings. was involved in these projects!

8 Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stress We’re on the Air! By Denise Ryan, Safety Coach By Trey Hatt, Types of Heat-Related Problems: Communications Specialist • Heat Cramps – symptoms include painful cramping and spasms of legs, arms and/or abdominal (stomach) muscles. The City has gone live with its • Heat Exhaustion – symptoms include feeling tired, weak, and dizzy; head- very own radio station, playing an ache, nausea and possible vomiting. Heavy perspiration; skin feels moist. eclectic mix of music, City Council • Heat Stroke – symptoms include feeling tired, weak and dizzy. Skin feels broadcasts and emergency infor- hot and dry, even under armpits; appears red and flushed. May become deliri- mation. ous and unconscious. This is a life threatening situation! Call 911. Tune in to 92.5 KZOS-FM for Reducing Your Risks: commercial-free music 24 hours • Drink lots of cool water, even more than you think you need, when the per day. The playlist includes weather is hot and humid. Water is best; fruit and vegetable juices are good, everything from Texas Country to too. Drink at least a gallon of liquid a day (about 16 glasses) when the outside classic rock and a little pop music temperature is above 90 degrees and you are not in air-conditioned surround- now and then. ings. This will mean drinking 1 1/2 times as much liquid as your thirst signals you to drink. The tunes only stop on the first • Wear light-colored clothes that are loosely woven and absorbent. Wear a and third Tuesday evenings for live hat to shade your head. broadcasts of the San Marcos City • Avoid outside activities during the heat of the day. If you are required to Council meetings, and for emer- work outside, take frequent breaks and drinks of cool water. gency information and notifica- tions when needed. Treating Heat-Related Problems: • Heat Cramps KZOS-FM is a low-power FM sta- 1. Rest in a cool, shaded place. tion broadcasting from Fire Station 2. Drink cool water slowly (4 ounces which is equal to 1/2 cup of fluid, 5 and has coverage over most of every 15 minutes) the City. During emergency noti- 3. Stretch the muscle lightly. fications, the power is cranked up • Heat Exhaustion and the broadcast range is extend- 1. Rest in a cool, shaded place. ed significantly. 2. Lie down with feet raised 8 to 12 inches. 3. Loosen all clothing. “We want to play good music 4. Drink cool water (4 ounces, which is equal to 1/2 cup of fluid, every 15 and help engage the community minutes). by broadcasting the City Coun- 5. Place cool, wet clothes on forehead and body. cil meetings,” said Fire Marshal • Heat Stroke Ken Bell. “But the most important 1. Remove clothing. service this station provides is the 2. Sponge with cool water. emergency notifications. When all 3. Fan with a towel or cloth. of your other devices are failing in 4. Call an ambulance and transport the person to the nearest emergency an emergency, turn on the radio room immediately. This is a life-threatening emergency. and we’ll be there.” Congratulations, Graduates! Continued from Page 5 and is undecided on his major. During his time at SMHS, Kyle was active in drama, football, and track. He was also very active on the Youth Ministry Council for the Disciples Andrew Vincent Riali, son of Nick Riali (Community Servic- of Christ Church, serving as a Regional Youth Ministry Coun- es/Parks and Recreation) and Rhonda Riali, graduated June 7 cil representative for the Bluebonnet Area. from Canyon Lake High School as valedictorian of his class. He played football, basketball and golf for the Hawks and Human Resources Specialist Susie Vargas has two gradu- was the student body president. Andrew volunteered many ates to announce! Her daughter, Nina Rodriguez graduated hours for the City at our Dances for Adults with Disabilities, from San Marcos High School on June 6. Nina will attend Summerfest and Movies in Your Park. He will attend the Texas State University in the fall with plans to major in spe- University of Texas and plans to major in engineering. cial education and is excited to be a member of the Texas State University Strutters. Susie’s son, Sean Rodriguez, Assistant Chief of Police, Operations Chase Stapp’s son Kyle recently graduated from Texas State University with a bach- Stapp recently graduated from San Marcos High School. elor’s degree in music education. He will begin teaching Kyle is planning to attend Texas State University in the fall choir and mariachi at Woods Middle School in San Antonio.

9 The Wellness Group: Come Play With Us! By Jennifer Ornelas, Accounting Specialist

Did you know that the City of San Marcos (COSM) has a Wellness Group? Of course you did! Do you know what they do and what they represent? Let me tell you all about it!

Our COSM Wellness Group started in October 2013 by DerryAnn Krupinsky (WIC) and Denise Molina (IT). They had a wonderful idea to get our co-workers together to play sports on a regular basis. With the support of our Assistant City Managers, Steve Parker and Collette Jamison and our current City Manager Jared Miller, the group is helping fellow COSM employees practice a healthier lifestyle. MAYOR AND CITY MANAGER SUPPORT THE WELLNESS TEAM: City Manager Jared Miller and Mayor Daniel Guerrero join the Wellness Team at Children’s Park Our Wellness Group is a group of individuals that are to help promote wellness activities for all City Employees. L-R are fron, Jared working hard at maintaining a healthier lifestyle. With Miller and Jessica Ramos; back row are Esther Carver, Caleb Ramos, Mayor your fellow co-workers as your support, you can join Guerrero, Jennifer Ornelas, and Denise Molina. (Photo by Don Anders) them for all sorts of different group activities, swap reci- I know you have that burning question… “Where do I sign pes, or just ask those burning questions about healthy up?” Well it’s easy! To sign up just visit, www.meetup.com/ living that are on your mind. We are here to support you cosm-wellness. This will give you access to all the activities on your healthy lifestyle journey. we have planned and you can RSVP to events like our Meet, Eat & Greet. Participating in group activities/sports are not only fun but they hold you accountable for attending the activity If you would like more information please contact any one you sign up for knowing that your co-workers are count- of your Wellness Group Representatives: DerryAnn Krupin- ing on you. You don’t have to be a pro in any activity or sky: Co-Founder, Denise Molina: Co-Founder, Esther Carver: even participate in the sport. You can come be a sup- Secretary, Jessica Ramos: Marketing, Caleb Ramos: Activities porter and cheer the others on. Coordinator, Jennifer Ornelas: Education. Family Additions TECH TIPS By Karen Smith, CMO Executive Assistant Got Google? By Denise Molina, Business Systems Analyst Weddings Sandy McKenzie, Parks & Recreation, Got Google? Of course we do - but do we make good use would like to announce the marriage of of it? her son, Jason Myers to Chelsey Cotton. The couple wed on June 14, 2014 at Naturally we “Google” addresses or general information, Memory Lane Event Center in Dripping but what if we use our searches to research or find quick Springs. They will reside in Wimberley solutions to technical issues we might have? where Jason works for Aqua America and Chelsey will be the newest 3rd grade teacher at Jacobs The Internet is a vast source of tutorials, training, videos and solutions that may assist in your technical issues and Well Elementary School. for anything Google can’t answer, your IT Service Desk will always be available. Stork Report Katie Fontenot Contreras, Park Ranger EMPLOYEES ON THE MOVE is happy to announce the birth of her baby daughter, Mikayla Belle Christine Troetschel Library Assistant | Community Services-Library Contreras. Mikayla was born May 29, 2014. She weighed 7lb 0.5oz and Tyler Jenke was 21 inches long! Mom and baby Water/Wastewater Equipment Operator II are doing well. Public Services-Water/Wastewater Utilities

10 Municipal Judge John P. Burke Retires Transforming IT Judge John P. Burke, Presiding Judge, lying, use of City of San Marcos Municipal Court seat belts and By Denise Moline, Business Analyst retired at the end of June after serv- traffic safety. ing the court for eight years. He helped Just a few short years ago the City of San start a yearly Marcos Information Technology depart- Previous to service as Municipal tradition of ment was made up of approximately seven Judge, Burke served for approximate- conducting a staff members and was a division of the Finance Department. ly 10 years with the City of Corpus mock court Christi as a Senior Assistant City at the San Attorney and part time instructor at Marcos High Del Mar College. School. Judge John P. Burke

“Judge Burke has served the City of Prior to his Corpus Christi tenure, San Marcos well, bringing important Burke had a private law practice innovations to make our municipal in Dripping Springs for many years court and the administration of jus- where he also served as City At- tice more accessible to citizens of all torney. He served three terms as a ages,” said Mayor Daniel Guerrero. Hays County Justice of the Peace. THE IT TEAM: Front (L to R): Kayla Lamm, Paul “We are grateful for his many con- Rosales, Ramona Brown, Michael Walker and Leo tributions to our court system and to Burke is retired from the U.S. Army Cerna. Standing: Dana Scanes, Bruce Stofft, George Applegate, Carl Stewart, Joni Hickey, Denise Molina, reaching out to so many students in Reserve as Lt. Col., JAG Corps. He Katie Steele Not pictured: Mike Sturm, Gus Roman, our public schools as well.” served in S.E. Asia on active duty Isaac Badu, Daniel Born and Melinda Garza. during the Vietnam War. Judge Burke was instrumental in Since then many changes have occurred. establishing the municipal court eve- Burke serves on the Hays County IT has become its own department and ning/night court every Wednesday Bail Bond Board, the Hays County Mike Sturm, our IT Director, is implement- to accommodate those who work Criminal Justice Committee, is a ing a long-range vision for IT. The creation and attend school during the day. member of the San Marcos Noon of a dedicated service desk, distinct net- Burke recently helped spearhead the Lions Club, life time member of the working and business operations divisions physical relocation of the Court from V.F.W. and member of the Texas is helping in streamlining our processes. the San Marcos Municipal Building Municipal Court Association. to the Hays County Government All IT staff members are required to attain Center. He also serves as Chairman of the the ITIL (Information Technology Infra- structure Library) certification so they can Board of the Burke Foundation, understand and implement ITIL standards He has initiated several programs a residential treatment facility for in how we deliver our services to you, our to reduce the court backlog and boys and child placing agency in customers. ensure more efficient service for the Driftwood, Texas. He is a member citizens of the community. Burke of the State Bar of Texas and gradu- The IT Governance committee was formed also started programs to reach out to ate of the University of Texas at Aus- to allow management to give input on local schools with classes on bul- tin with B.A. and J.D. degrees. standardizing our policies and procedures, and help to guide and prioritize the nu- merous IT projects. The Geographic Infor- Warren Zerr Retires He also will turn his photography mation Services (GIS) department recently Continued from Page 4 hobby into a business. became a part of IT and a GIS Governance Committee was formed modeled after is in a testing phase and expected to the IT Governance Committee but more The most rewarding parts of his job specific to GIS. be operational by this fall. were “first and foremost, working with such phenomenal staff. I never IT now has additional service desk sup- “AVL will save lives,” Warren said. felt alone. I always felt I was sur- “Dispatchers will be able to see port, an administrative assistant, a data- rounded by the best in the business, base administrator, more network spe- where the police cars are located by folks much smarter than me. so in the event of an emergency, cialists, as well as an additional business That made my job easy,” Warren analyst to better support our 500+ city staff i.e. bank robbery, the closest officer said. and meet and exceed their technology can be dispatched. If an officer is needs. hurt and cannot communicate, the He also loved hiring people. “Be- dispatcher can see where the officer ing understanding and compas- IT is excited about these changes but with is located and send help.” sionate with folks, understanding IT doubling in staff we quickly ran out of human weaknesses, taking appli- office space, so expansion and remodel- Warren and his wife Jeri are proud cants and vetting them through the ing began to accompany our growing IT parents of two daughters. After earn- process. Giving them the job offer family. We will shortly be announcing an ing a Master of Science Degree at was without a doubt the highlight open house once our remodeling project Texas State, Warren began teaching of the process. We all remember is complete to show everyone our new in the Criminal Justice department, a “that day” we were offered the job,” offices! second career he plans to continue. Warren noted.

11 Sunshine Kids Continued from Page 1 Parks and Recreation provided manpower; Tony Abundo, William Ford, Gabe Guerra, Mick Medina, Richard Mer- ritt with daughter Ashley, Jessica Ramos, Paul Zavala; Lifeguards: Nicole Barrera, Erin Cambridge, Taylor Cavin, Hilary Garcia, Justin Gregg, Jessica Guerra, Jessica Hood, Ezra Mendez, Angelica Rodriguez, Steven Shoultz, Robert Stanczak, Keeli Taylor, Karina Vint, and Brianne Williams.

Police volunteers were Ramona Binkley, Danny Castillo, Delton Duggins, Martin Manzi, Duwayne Poorboy, Richard Prado, Laray Taylor, and Kris Wofford.

Ken Bell, Fire Marshal and FD volunteers were Mark Bomar, Bobby Dallimore, Micah Harris, Jonathan Henderson, Isaac Hernandez, Jay Horton, Katie Kirk, Tanner McLean, Billy Mullins, Jonathan Pakula, Tyson Plagens, Blake Schanhals, Lucas Sergent Aaron Stewart, and Citizens Fire Academy IN FLIGHT: Firefighter Katie Kirk flies high with a Sunshine Kid at Schlitterbahn Alumni members Melinda Clayton and Denise Molina. as part of their Central Texas Adventure. Everyday Heroes Kudos to YOU! Continued from Page 1 Continued from Page 2 Rita had been worried about the dog Great Service at the Nature Center and kids alike. The value of hosting ever since she first saw it and snuck a party at the SMNC is also so up on her while she was sleeping to Rodney and Jenna, reasonable for the support provided. net her. She was worried about the dog’s injury and feared it would not Many families commented on what a last through the weekend. I wanted to take a (long overdue) great unique venue it was and about moment to share what a positive three families were planning on “I immediately forwarded pictures to experience Lauren Broddrick inquiring about a future event after some rescues requesting immediate created for my daughter’s birthday attending ours. transfer since she needed medical party in January 2014 at the San attention,” Kara said. “Blue Dog Marcos Nature Center. Lauren The SMNC is a treasured resource Rescue came to pick her up the next is very customer service minded, of your department that provides a morning, and the rest is history.” approachable and a joy to work positive experience for visitors of with in planning an event at the San all ages. Our family has enjoyed Blue Dog Rescue stitched up her Marcos Nature Center. participating in summer camp, wound and is nursing her back to parties, drop-in visits, plant sales, health. To read more about her, visit Having previously attended a few butterfly releases and other activities. http://www.bluedogrescue.com/dog/ birthday parties here in the past, we We are grateful for the wonderful ryta/. were thrilled that the SMNC could staff such as Lauren and Jenna that accommodate our time request and create these opportunities for us to create a magical and fun party for appreciate and enjoy nature! We look CLASSIFIEDS about 20 kids attending a 4-year old’s forward to seeing Lauren again soon! birthday party. She was able to match WANTED: Mattress and box spring a recyclable potted plant activity and Ms. Kristy Caldwell, – any size from twin-queen; couch; “pirate nature scavenger hunt” to our Associate Director coffee table; interior house paint. Royal Pirate Garden themed dress-up Department of Campus Recreation Contact Katie Steele, IT Department, party. Texas State University 940.368.9959.

The kids were mesmerized when getting to touch or hold various snakes all thanks to Lauren and the other staff members’ ability to positively set the environment so it would be safe for the creatures

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