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 What Up in Sports this Week? MAXPREPS SPORTS SCHEDULES BURBANK LANIER HARLANDALE MC COLLUM SOUTH SAN SOUTHWEST Burbank
Class of '83 challenges
all Classes Ok fellow bulldogs, it’s time for you to take out your softball gloves hidden in the closet and join a softball team. The Class of 1983 is challenging each class to form a team and join us at the 1st Annual Co-ed Softball Tournament. . So which class is the best, is it your class? We are currently seeking a contact for each graduating class. Please contact Daniel Rodriguez at 210-772-0308.  Ursula Pari Family
comes first for Ursula Pari who has been anchoring the 10 p.m. newscast
on KSAT-12 for some time. As of November 30, she will no longer anchor
the 10 p.m. slot but will continue, doing the 4, 5 and 6 p.m.
newscasts. Ursula made the on air announcement on Wednesday night
explaining that she wants to spend more time with her children.
Isis Romero will be taking her place on the 10 p.m. newscast. Isis popularity has grown since she joined KSAT in June 2010.  Isis
Romero
TV anchor/reporter, Isis Romero joined KSAT-12 in June 2010 after working for KSAZ-TV in Phoenix, Arizona. Isis can be seen all over the news channel at KSAT. Isis has a degree in Broadcast Journalism from the University of Texas in Austin and is married. Things look favorable for this rising news personality that calls Robstown home. She has also worked in news broadcasting at KZTV in Corpus Christi. Aside from broadcasting, Isis holds a license in real estate.  Sarah
Forgany
Sarah Forgany, reporter for KENS 5 came to San Antonio in April 2010 and has received several Associated Press awards for her reporting. Born and raised in Cairo, Egypt, she received her journalism degree from the University of Houston and has worked in Louisiana and Houston. Sarah was recently given a co-anchor position with Fred Lozano doing morning news.  Delaine
Mathieu
Delaine Mathieu is doing great with much more broadcast time on News 4 and many hope she continues. Delaine is half Venezuelan and an Emmy award winner for her investigative reporting. She also works out and is a runner.  Sarah Lucero
Beautiful and talented Sarah Lucero from Ken 5 continues to built on her growing popularity both on and off the evening news in San Antonio.  Deborah
Knapp
Deborah Knapp is a seasoned television news reporter that also anchors KENS-TV afternoon news cast and has received countless awards for her work.         COMMUNITY
ANNOUNCEMENT ----------------- |
 Mayor Julian Castro and First Lady Thousands were thrilled to see San Antonio's Mayor on national television as First Lady Michelle Obama arrived at the Senate Chamber for President Obama's State of The Nation speech. Castro was fortunate to get seating one row from Mrs. Obama. Video-Capture.  Successful Fundraising by Burbank Little Bulldogs SouthSaToday.Com by Robert Castillo SAN ANTONIO - On any weekend one can see The Burbank Little Bulldogs youth organization holding community fundraisers at the intersection of Nogalitos Street and El Dorado Street in Southside San Antonio. Judging by the large crowds and long lines of supporters at every barbeque plate sale, its apparent that they are being quite successful. The organization's Vice-President, Manny Arispe explained that all the funds raised go towards paying the espenses for several types of sports and not only for football. The group also sponsors a cheerleading group. Participation in the organnization athelitic events include boys and girls from the ages of 5 to 12. Arispe invites the community to continue to come out and support their worthwhile youth organization composed of fans and the children's family members.  Neighborhood residents ask for more Some residents are aware of the increase improvement in removing graffiti from area business but claim that there is an increase in illegal tagging of trash receptacles throughout some of the business. The hope is to have these commercial refuse companies to replace the receptacles with clean ones or to remove the graffiti. One company has already been contacted.  Income Tax Return Preparation at Collins Garden SAN ANTONIO - The VITA program is now underway to assist residents to accurately complete their Income Tax Return. Volunteers will assist those with all the needed material at several locations throughout the city. For near Southside neighborhoods, Collins Garden will operate Monday and Saturday from 10am to 5pm. On Tuesdays from 12pm to 7pm and on Wednesdays from 10am to 3pm. Thursdays they will operate from 12pm to 4pm. The Collins Garden location is at 200 N. Park Blvd.  Brand New Taco Establishment to Open Despite the loom and gloom being expounded, prepared food establishments continue to flourish in the city's Southside. This location will soon opened once all city permits and inspections are completed. The new owner is eager to open and deliver another choice for area residents and customers. Photo by SouthSaToday.Com  A Happy New Year from Michael A. Salas from Urban 15 and staff from La Cocina  Gifts for kids at Sea World
IBC
Bank and SAPD in conjuction with several other sponsors provided gifts
and toys for children from the community at Sea World on Saturday
morning. Photo by SouthSaToday.Com
 Out of town shoppers in San Antonio
By Robert Castillo - SouthSaToday.Com Webposted: 11/25/2011 SAN ANTONIO - Many shoppers decided to trek to San Antonio to do their Christmas shopping a day after Thanksgiving Day and Mario Moreno even traveled 150 miles from Laredo to join thousands at area stores. Moreno decided to travel to San Antonio after he found Mexican Nationals overwhelming the border area stores. After several hours of shopping that topped about a thousand dollars and filled his car, he was headed back to Laredo. Luckily, San Antonio had no reports of serious incidents with crowds which was not the case throughout the rest of the country. It was reported that at a San Fernando Valley Walmart several shopper and children were injured when a woman used mace to fight off others wanting the same item. Another national media reported a person in critical condition after being shot in an attempted robbery outside a Walmart in Oakland, California. A stabbing also took place outside a Macy's when two group of shoppers became enraged. Overall, San Antonio businesses were pleased with sales but know they need many days like today. Its already estimated that the past twenty four hours will be the best for the entire year.  Christmas trees now on
sale on Southside
Webposted: 11/25/2011 4:22pm Joseline and her brother in law were busy this afternoon setting up this season's christmas trees at the corner of Nogalitos and Zarzamora. "Our trees are fresh and full and more importantly, the cost is reasonable." explained Joseline. "We might be selling them in a matter of minutes once we set up the outdoor lights." The trees will go on sale with prices ranging from $50 to $60.  Area Businesses deal with illegal taggers During the past months, great strides have been made to combat the costly damage inflicted on area businesses by illegal tagging. Property owners are not allowing graffiti to remain on their businesses for any length of time and instead are repairing the damage at a much quicker pace that in the past. Its not known if the decline is due to successful prosecution of taggers, but what is obvious is the constant anti-graffiti city staff patrolling the south side. Some businesses have invested in higher quality surveillance systems to hopefully deter offenders. Unfortunately, some taggers continue to break the law and only days after the grand opening of a chain store in the city near Southside, tagger already left their mark. Those wanting to report graffiti on their property can call the City of San Antonio at 210-207-5430. You can also send photos to lisa.mckensie@sanantonio.gov. Include address and a return phone number.  Sam Houston plays catch up with Devine High It was a hard-hitting game this past Friday at the South San Stadium when playoff contenders Devine High fought to keep their 10-0 record intact. The Sam Houston Hurricanes came on fast, scoring first but after Devine reacted, Sam Houston could not catch up and were defeated with a 27 to 17 final score. More Photos. Photos by SouthSaToday.Com 
Dia de
Los Muertos Celebrated
SouthSaToday.Com By Robert Castillo Webposted: November 2, 2011 As part of Mexico's traditional celebration of the Dia De Los Muertos, the Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center and the San Antonio Eye Bank joined together and offered a traditional alter for relatives and friends of the deceased. As is the custom, toys are brought for dead children and bottles of tequila, mezcal or pulque or jars of atole are brought for aduts according to Wikipedia. Maria Muniz came to the event to honor the death of her 12 year old daughter Cecilia who died from natural causes. "I am so happy that my daughter was able to help by donating her cornea which in turn improved the life of another person." said Muniz. Virginia Dominguez brought her two sons, Paul and Anthony. Like many others, she placed a photo of her deceased husband Mario Dominguez at the alter. Mr. Dominguez was 53 years old and passed away this year. Those in attendance were also provided with pan de muerto with chocolate and children had face painting.  James McDonald at the epicenter of today's earthquake SouthSaToday.Com By Robert Castillo Webposted: October 20, 2011 FASHING, TX - James McDonald and his wife could not have gotten any closer to the epicenter of today's magnitude 4.6 earthquake which was felt throughout southwest Texas. At 7:24 a.m. a tremor was detected as a magnitude 4.6 earthquake by the U.S. Geological Survey. McDonald was somewhat surprised that his home was located at the latitude and longitude of the earthquake's epicenter in Fashing, Texas, approximately 44 miles south of San Antonio. "I was already awake when I heard what sounded like very loud thunder. I then felt the house start shaking and picture frames started falling off the walls and dishes were breaking." explained McDonald. "It didn’t take long for me to realize that it was an earthquake. It was a very scary feeling." McDonald had yet to check his home for structural damage. Across the road, Patsy Retzloff also described a loud sound followed by some rumbling and then shaking which she estimated was about two to three inches in a lateral motion. She explained that the first thing she did was grab a photograph of her grandson to keep it from breaking. After a few seconds the shaking stopped and she could see her ceiling fan still swaying. "I was concerned that it wouldn’t stop." said Retzloff. "I felt strong vibrations. It was as of the whole earth had moved" There was no other damage to her home either. The only other earthquake of such magnitude was record in 1993 when a 4.3 rattled the area.   Two top SAISD employees resigned - district probes irregularities SouthSaToday.Com By Robert Castillo Updated: October 10, 2011 SAN ANTONIO - Two top level SAISD employees are no longer working for the district. Eduardo Elizondo, Senior Director of Federal Programs and Tony Mayhan, Compliance Monitor of Federal Programs handed in their resignation following allegations that both may have violated SAISD's conflict of interest regulatons by being involved in directing federal funds to relatives and friends. In a widely covered press conference, SAISD Superintendent Robert Duron answered questions from the San Antonio media explaining that both employees Eduardo Elizondo and Tony Mayhan, were no longer working with the district. It was alleged that as much as $800,000 in federal funds may have been funneled to family members and friends. So far, eleven contracts were made with parochial schools including repairs to facilities. Duron indicated that the Texas Education Agency would conduct an audit to determine whether other funds were involved and also to see if there were others. Duran also stated that criminal charges were likely. When asked what prompted their investigation, Duron stated "We did get a anonymous letter and also an open records request that alerted us." The incident became known following a broadcast by Investigative Reporter Brian Collister as part of the News 4 WOAI Trouble Shooters segment. Neither Elizondo or Mayhan were available for comment.  Bishop Yanta at Lourdes Grotto SouthSaToday.Com October 8, 2011 SAN ANTONIO - Retired Bishop John W. Yanta was present at today's special memorial celebraton of Our Lady of Fatima which was sponsored by Servants of Jesus and Mary, S.A. at the Lourdes Grotto. Officiating the mass was Auxiliary Bishop Oscar Cantu of San Antonio, Texas. SouthSaToday.Com  Palm Heights holds National Nite Out SouthSaToday.Com By Robert Castillo Web Updated: October 4, 2011 SAN ANTONIO - The Palm Heights community of Southside San Antonio joined other neighborhoods throughout the city on Tuesday's National Night Out, an event that earned San Antonio a number one ranking in the nation for its overall celebration last year. Food and drinks were made available to those attending last night while children were provided with games. For the first time, the center had boys and girls enjoying the recently built covered basketball courts. District 5 Councilman, David Medina was also present and welcomed those in attendance. Police officers were also in attendance and mingled with residents. Like in previous years, performers from the Ballet Folklorico Festival directed by Bruce Gonzales entertained the crowd with traditional dances. The parents of eight year old Lupe DeLeon were delighted with her performance, explaining that she had joined the group two months ago. The event ended at 9pm.  Diez y Seis Celebrations held all over San Antonio SouthSaToday.Com By Robert Castillo Web Updated: September 17, 2011 SAN ANTONIO - Several Diez y Seis Celebrations took place throughout San Antonio this past weekend. J. Anthony's Seafood, KXTN and Caliente Harley-Davidson were sponsors of an event that drew a large crowd of mostly motorcycle enthusiasts at the Caliente grounds. The event started at 3pm and ended late at night. The main attraction for the night was Tejano music vocalist Ram Herrera. Sodas and food booths were provided for the crowd. Some tailgated the event while listening to featured bands. Kids were delighted to have face paintings by talented artists with parental consent. Butterflies face paintings were the most popular. As announced, part of he proceeds went to the Silver and Black Give Back Spurs charity. In the downtown celebration held at the San Antonio Market Square Oscar G drew a large crowd of more than a hundred. Oscar G. Gonzalez has consistently performed at the Tejano Music Awards and his album "Quiereme" continues to sell. Carlos Miranda and Elida Reyna also performed during the Diez y Seis festivities downtown.  FINALLY !!!!!.....RAIN Rain,
it came as a welcomed surprise to southside San Antonio on Saturday
afternoon. But it was not all good news especially to the working crews
that have been setting new drainage lines near Royston and Zarzamorra.
A major cave-in developed when the recently packed soil gave away into
a two foot drop. Photo by SouthSaToday.Com.
 Weekend Fundraising..... IBC Bank staff held a community fundraising event at Ponderosa Bowling on Goliad Road in south San Antonio in order to raise funds for the Luekemia & Lymphoma Society's LIGHT THE NIGHT. Photo by SouthSaToday.Com  Senator Leticia Van de Putte at community event SouthSaToday.Com By Robert Castillo Web Updated: August 13, 2011 SAN ANTONIO - Senator Leticia Van de Putte and Family Service Association presented a "Sending Healthy Families Back to School" event this Saturday at the Neighborhood Place at 3014 Rivas. Hundreds of neighborhood families, children and community service agencies filled the facility which provided health screenings, healthy snacks, dental screenings, face painting and brand new bicycle giveaway. Dance Therapy which is associated with Family Service Association also partnered with dance instructor, Adriana Araujo Bruton to provide the event's main entertainment by bringing smiles and dance participation from those attending. April Ancira also thanked the community for helping the Blue Knights provide free backpacks for the children. Also participating were countless volunteers from the Food Bank and the National Charity League Inc. Senator Van de Putte thanked the community for supporting the event and helping the children prepare for a new school year.  SAISD hears from community about proposed soccer field SouthSaToday.Com By Robert Castillo Web Updated: August 4, 2011 SAN ANTONIO - A little over one hundred people attended tonights SAISD community meeting at the Convocation Center to provide feedback to the districts architectural team responsible for the renovation of Alamo Stadium and Convocation Center. The renovation project resulted from the passage of the 2010 Bond which designated $35 million in funds. At the community meeting, organizers informed the public that they would be divided into three groups in order to have greater participation from each group. During these discussions, some voiced their objection to having the Spur's organization become part of the project with regards to plans to add a soccer field suited for professional competition. Some rejected the involvement of FIFA (Fédération Internationale de Football Association ) as well. "This belongs to us taxpayers..all these other organizations have no sayso in this." said Lupe Barba, who describe herself as a concerned parent and taxpayer. "Maybe they want a sayso because its money and its all about money." Michael Macias who described himself as a soccer enthusiast pointed out the differences between Austin and San Antonio in justifying his choice to have a professional soccer field built at Alamo Stadium. "You go to Austin, a much smaller city but a much more progressive city and you will see how they dominate us in the number of youth soccer fields." Macias added that if the San Antonio's youth were to see professional soccer, this would inspire them to participate in that sport. Patti Radle, SAISD Board member was present along with all other board members. When asked about her position on building a professional soccer field at Alamo Stadium she stated, "Try looking at it through the student's eyes. A student's focus encompasses the sports of track, football and UIL soccer within the venue and that is the kind of feedback I'm getting from the community - and again looking at it through student's eyes." At the end, those in attendance were given tours of the Convocation Center by SAISD staff. Other meetings are plan but no specific dates were announced.  City Councilman Bernal addresses graffiti problem in his District SouthSaToday.Com By Robert Castillo Web Updated: July 22, 2011 SAN ANTONIO - San Antonio's newly elected Councilman Diego Bernal met with residents of the Northwest Los Angles Association this week to hear about the recent criminal activity in their neighborhood. Among their concerns was the increase in stray dogs, businesses selling alcoholic beverages to minors or in violation of permits, unkept rental properties, violent crime and graffiti. Association President Ray Powlesson, voiced some of their frustration and demanded increased policing in their area. One of his many concerns dealt with the increasing amount of graffiti marring businesses and homes. Councilman Bernal informed the group about the recently pass House Bill 1964 which was authored by Representative Mike Villarreal. The bill passed by the legislature goes into effect this September and will allow judges in juvenile courts to impose up to 200 community service hours to juvenile offenders in addition to fines. Offenders can also help in other community cleanups. With passage of this bill, Bernal plans to create a relationship with municipal courts so offenders who are arrested and sentenced can be assigned to areas that need cleaning. He added that this additional component will help the code compliance problem. Bernal added that he has met with the courts and will be coordinating with them. "We will make them take down graffiti. You make them cut yards for people who don't have the ability to take care of their home the way they would like to." Bernal said. With reference to a growing problem with stray dogs, Bernal said that they plan to double their efforts by increasing their roundup up to a week in areas where strays are more prevalent. San Antonio Police Department and Code Compliance staff were present and also answered questions from approximately 20 residents that attended.  Burbank High School's jogging track gets bulldozed. Photo by SouthSaToday.Com.  Noticeable increase in
Panhandling seen SouthSaToday.Com July 15, 2011 Southside residents and business owners are seeing an immerging panhandling problem and attribute the increase to joblessness and hard economic times. Some say that at a time when people are concerned about carjacking, it is frightening not knowing if the person that is approaching is simply a panhandler or someone intent in causing you harm. Luckily, most panhandlers that "work" the Southside area are not aggressive in soliciting. There is Maria, middle-aged female that can always be seen around the parking lot near South Park Mall. Her plea is always because she needs money to travel to Nava, Mexico to see an ailing family member. Jorge like many others panhandles around neighborhood laundromats and approaches everyone as they arrive. His request is for bus fare to get back home. Jorge would not disclose how much he makes but did volunteer that even when he asks for coins, most give him a dollar. City ordinances do not seem to have much of an impact in reducing panhandling, at least not in the Southside of the city.  Major
street work goes on in District 5SouthSaToday.Com July 15, 2011 San Antonio District 5 residents have had to deal with reduced traffic lanes particularly if they are traveling down S. Zarzamora. Road work has been taking place for the past weeks from Frio City Road to S.W. Military as part of major project according to city officials. The project has been moving well with no major inconveniences to businesses in the area. The project consists of laying new drainage pipe and eventually street resurfacing. An exact date of completion is not known at this time.  San Antonio holds early 4th of July celebration at Market Square SouthSaToday.Com By Robert Castillo Web Updated: July 2, 2011 Cold bottled water was the choice drink this weekend at the Salute to the Oldies event at Market Square. With temperatures in the upper nineties, San Antonians and vacationing tourists came to enjoy the live entertainment and to partake of the traditional food and drinks. Food booths offered a variety of food including sausage on a stick, fajita tacos, shishkabobs, turkey legs, funnel cake and healthy fruit cups. Hundreds enjoyed live oldies music from the 50's, 60's and 70''s; performed by the Vinyl 45's, as well as another live performance by San Antonio's local legend , Ernie Garibay. Garibay performed to the afternoon crowd bringing them to their feet as they danced to his music. The event also had show cars on display and a war memorial commemorating the 4th of July celebration. Monica Dolph, Miss North Bexar County was among the visiting celebrities. Monica will be competing for the Miss Texas title in the near future. Also drawing a large crowd was 14 year old singer Sandy Rodriguez. Sandy's local popularity continues to grow following the release of her first CD. The celebration at Market Square will continue until the 4th of July ending at 6pm.  Mission Reach Project to hold grand opening ceremony on June 25 SouthSaToday.Com By Robert Castillo Web Updated: June 23, 2010 A grand opening ceremony is set to take place this Saturday, June 25th at 10 am. in the city's southside. Numerous city, county and other dignitaries will officially announce the completion of Phase I of the Mission Reach Ecosystem Restoration and Recreation Project. The celebration will take place on the Theo Avenue Bridge and the San Antonio River. The entire riverwalk project is a work in progress and as of Thursday, Benny Alvarez Jr from Alvarez Masonry Construction was still at work with more than 60 workers putting on the final touches on a major part of the project. "I am sure that people will appreciate what has been done on this part of the riverwalk. The transformation is something they can be proud of for many years to come," said Alvarez. The total project will include eight miles of the San Antonio River and restoring 113 acres of aquatic habitat. It will also include more than 20,000 trees of various species and different kinds of shrubs. Once completed, it will provide 137 picnic tables, 89 benches, five shaded overlooks, nine water landings, six foot bridges and four pavilions. The event's scheduled entertainment will include Ben King, David Aman, Inner G, Acoustic Dreams, Galo Gutierrez and Ruben V. Adults and children can bring their bicycles and have the San Antonio Police Department install lights while kids can enjoy hands-on activities, including educational fishing clinics. There will also be performances by Radio Disney at nearby Roosevelt Park. Free shuttle service will be provided on the day of the event. Additional information is available on their website at http://www.sanantonioriver.org/. MORE  Harlandale ISD's Memorial Day Ceremony SouthSaToday.Com by Robert Castillo Web Posted: May 30, 2011 Under blue skies and with winds gusting up to 20 miles per hour, Harlandale Independent School District and other veteran organizations hosted today's Memorial Day Ceremony. The ceremony was held at Harlandale Memorial Stadium to honor those that served and gave the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our country. The ceremony took place in front of the Harlandale Memorial Monument which was dedicated in September 1971. The printed program noted that this was the first monument erected in San Antonio in memory of former students. An eternal flame and flag pole were later added. Ninety-three names are now engraved on the monument. Father Tony Posada from San José Mission offered the opening prayer and students from Collier Elementery sang several theme songs. . Alfred de la Cruz was a guest speaker recognized for being the first Hispanic that graduated from Harlandale High School and who also served in the military. Enrique Vargas, a Vietnam War veteran and a member of the John F. Kennedy VFW Post 4815 was expected to lay a wreath before the Memorial Monument along with other veterans however because of high winds organizers cancelled the wreaths . The ceremonial taps were played by Alejandro Gonzalez, Ariana Gomez, Jose Mata & Chris Vicuna all members of the McCollum High School Band. MORE  Medina Wins Second Term As Councilman SouthSaToday.Com by Robert Castillo It was with an overwhelming margin that Councilman David Medina Jr. won a second term as councilman in District 5. A total vote of 2631 gave him the victory over three other candidates. Perhaps the number of political yard signs seen in people's homes was an early indication of his vast appeal in the near Southside of San Antonio. The added advantage of name recognition may have also contributed to his win. As one of his supporter pointed out, Medina did spent time in his district and held countless community meetings to hear their concerns. Ex-Councilwoman Lourdes Galvan was second in vote count with 959 total votes, 589 cast during early voting and 370 on Election Day. Galvan lost her council seat in a previous election when she was defeated by Medina. Many felt that she was the only other candidate that had a chance of winning the district 5 position. The other two contenders were Raymond Zavala with 57 votes and Andro Mendoza with 85. In the well-publicized campaign between Councilwoman Jennifer Ramos and Elizabeth "Liz" Campos, Ramos still won with a vote of 3,209 to Campos' 958 votes. The third candidate in that race was Ernest Zamora Jr. who received 214 votes. In the Mayor race, Julian Castro defeated four other candidates by taking 81.4% of the vote.  Proud Parents and Supporters
hold
fundraisers
SouthSaToday.Com by Robert Castillo The season for the Pop Warner Burbank Little Bulldogs team of San Antonio has come to an end with a record of 7 wins and 3 losses. Parents and supporters joined this Saturday at 2801 Nogalitos for a plate sale fundraiser. The funds will go for appreciation events for the children. Steve Moreno, the organizations President is thankful to the community for their continued support and invites the entire southside community to come out for their next fundraiser set for next weekend on May 21 at the CVS Pharmacy located at the intersection of W.Theo Avenue and Nogalitos. Photo by SouthSaToday.  To the delight of over 200,000 spectators, the Texas Cavalier River Parade had over 100 colorful barges representing many civic and business organization. Bringing glamor to the event were parade marshal Eva Longoria and Miss San Antonio, Domonique Ramirez. Photo by SouthSaToday.Com  Fiesta
Celebration starts in the Southside
SouthSaToday.Com by Robert Castillo SAN ANTONIO - With temperatures looming in the 90's and high humidity, the southside of San Antonio welcomed Fiesta celebrations with their own neighborhood parade. The event was sponsored by District 5 city councilman, David Medina Jr. and other area organizations including members of the Palm Heights Baptist School, Burbank High School band and the Orange Jackets Cheer Club. The high temperatures did not stop the very young queens and kings that were part of the parade along the one block route. Music and food booths lined the parade route on Hoover and Nogalitos. The event ends at 10:00pm.  Mayor Julian Castro - Forum on the Future By Robert Castillo rcastillo@southsatoday.com April 5, 2011 SAN ANTONIO - The mayor of San Antonio has been instrumental in bringing local school board candidates face to face with their constituents by hosting two public forums at McAllister Auditorium which were moderated by KSAT-12 Steve Spriester and Brenda Jimenez from Univision. The event has been titled Forum for the Future and is an example of the Mayor's determination to become personally involved in improving the quality of education. At Tuesday forum, three incumbents and ten new candidates from San Antonio ISD, Schertz-Cibolo-Univeral City ISD, Southwest ISD and Harlandale ISD participated and provided their ideas on how to improve the education in their districts while facing the impending funding cuts. Castro hoped such forums would improve the extremely low voter turnout in school board elections. Most board elections are set for May. Photo by SouthSaToday.Com  By Robert Castillo rcastillo@southsatoday.com April 4, 2011 SAN ANTONIO - It was a standing room only audience that saw South San Antonio Independent School District superintendent, Ron Durbon placed on paid administrative leave in a 4-3 vote from board members including Board President Connie Prado. According to Durbon, he is also being asked to stay away from the school campus and any other school related activities. In his absence, the school district will carry out an internal investigation to determine if Superintendent Durbon did enough about allegations that his son, Gary Durban had viewed pornographic material on the school's computer. Gary Durbon, who holds the position of athletic Director, continues to deny the allegations. Selected to immediately take Durbon position of superintendent was Linda Zeigler who is currently the vice principal at Frank Madla Elementary. Trustee Homer S. Flores and Trinidad T. Mata walked out of the board meeting before it adjourned, both voicing their opposition to the vote taken and the decision to suspend Durbon. Both Durbon and Connie Prado spoke before the media cameras to explain the motivation for the action taken tonight. "Its only a witch hunt, that's all it is." said Durbon. "The doubt is there. What we have to do is due diligence. We have to put this to rest one way or another." Prado stated. Prado not only accuses Durban of failing to investigate his son but also accuses him of a cover-up. Attention shifted temporarily as two people with differing views started to exchange heated words but school security quickly diffused the situation. The Board has also instructed the school districts attorney to look into the investigation, which Durbon says has already been done.  29th
Annual Lowrider Festival at Camargo Park
Ernie Garibay with his band, Cats Don't Sleep, were part of the entertainment at Sunday's 29th Annual Lowrider Festival celebrated at Camargo Park in San Antonio. Food, music and showcase lowrider cars and bicycles held what organizers described as a fun family event to raise funds for the Centro Cultural Aztlan. SouthSaToday.Com.  Ambassadors for the Poteet Strawberry Festival were Prince John Erik Ramos and Princess Adriana De La Fuente where thousands attended this traditional event. John and Adriana are both Juniors at Poteet High Schol. Photo by SouthSaToday.Com  Hundreds participate in the Cesar Chavez march SouthSaToday.Com By Robert Castillo SAN ANTONIO – Jaime P. Martinez, Chairman of the Board for the Cesar Chavez Legacy and Educational Foundation was one of the principal organizers of this traditional event aimed at recognizing the work of Cesar Chavez who passed away in 1993 after a lifetime devotion to improving the working conditions of farm workers. The Cesar Chavez march has become a tradition in San Antonio and throughout the country. The event has always counted on numerous community and political leaders who today joined in the 2.2 mile march that started at the Guadalupe Cultural Center in the city’s Westside and ended on the grounds of the Alamo. As part of their program, some performances were held on stage on the grounds of the Cultural Center prior to the march. Mayor Julian Castro, Police Chief William McManus, City Councilman David Medina and Ralph Medina, former councilwomen Lourdes Galvan and Patti Radle were among those present. Tejano music singer Raulito Navaira was this year’s Grand Marshal. Special recognition was given to Miss San Antonio, Domonique Ramirez who also completed the March alongside Mayor Julian Castro and others. Dolores Huerta, Co-founder of the United Farm Workers of America was an honored guest. It is estimated that about 1,500 people took part in today’s Cesar Chavez march. Additional Photos on Flickr  Domonique Ramirez regains her crown SouthSaToday.Com By Robert Castillo March 24, 2011 5:00pm Some say that it came as no surprise when jurors returned with a unanimous decision to restore the Miss San Antonio crown to 17 year old, Domonique Ramirez following a bitter court fight that lasted over a week. The jury's decision returns Domonique to her previous status as Miss San Antonio but with many other questions about who will be assisting her with her duties as queen. Miss Ramirez thanked well wishers on the steps of Our Lady of Guadalupe church where she chose to make herself available to the press. Among those present was her mother. "I knew she would be successful because even from the beginning I knew that everything she said was true. It was not fabricated. There were not lies. Everything was the truth. My daughter was prepared if we lost. We had talked about it.” said her mother. It is not known whether Miss San Antonio will be managed by a new emerging board or continue with Caroline Haggard Flores, who initially stripped her of her title. There was speculation that a meeting between attorneys might take place to resolve the issue. There was no word from Ashley Dixon who had been chosen to replace Miss Ramirez. Story developing. Additional Photos  One
of A Kind Bicycle Club needs members
The One of A Kind bicycle club is seeking more members to join their group and who are interested in customizing bikes. Luis Araujo, president of the group stated that most of their members come from the city's southside although they will accept interested bikers from anywhere in the city. Araujo and his club members attend various community events and consider the Palm Heights Neighborhood center as a place were they congregate. Today, they were scheduled to make their appearance at a bike rally near Probandt and Mitchell. Photography by SouthSaToday.Com.  Palms Heights Basketball
Pavilion
near completion
SouthSatoday.Com By Robert Castillo The City of San Antonio has under construction a much needed community project that will impact on the youth of the southside community. The $305,635 construction project is a capital improvement project funded by certificates of obligation and is referred to as the Palm Heights Basketball Pavilion. Once completed, it will include several courts and its not know if it will have seating. Attempts to get additional information were not successful at this time. 
San Antonio Golden Gloves
at
Municipal
Auditorium
SouthSatoday.Com By Robert Castillo Boxing aficionados are having a hard time getting any information about this year's Golden Gloves tournament that ends tomorrow at San ANtonio's Municipal Auditorium. One such boxing fan complained that it has been difficult finding information about the event and blames organizers for seemingly making little effort to let the public know the details of this year's event. Available information indicated that the event has been taking place since February 22 at the Woodlawn Gym starting at 7pm. Despite complaints, all events leading up to the finale this coming Saturday, have been a complete sellout with some being unable to get inside the event. Saturday's event begins at 7pm at the Municipal Auditorium and tickets are available thru tickmaster.  Councilman David Medina Jr. Holds Open House SouthSaToday.Com by Robert Castillo Councilman Medina from District Five held his monthly open house community meeting to a full house at his Southside district office on Nogalitos. Present during the meeting were City of San Antonio department heads including SAWS representative, Cecilia Picazo. Picazo was introduced as former aide to District 5 City Councilwoman Patti Radle. Medina announced the recent ground-breaking event for a 1/4 mile walking trail at Tejeda Park in addition to ongoing improvements currently being made to the Westside YMCA, Martinez Park and Collins Garden Park. He also pointed out that in the past two years, he has seen over $12 million worth of infrastructure improvements to his district which included, drainage, roads and sidewalks. For residents living adjacent to the railroad along Frio Road, he mentioned that efforts were underway to convert it into a railroad quiet zone. Medina's next open house is scheduled for March 24 and April 28 at 3226 Nogalitos, starting at 11am.  Daddy-D working the Southside SouthSaToday.Com by Robert Castillo He goes by the stage name of Daddy-D and has no serious aspirations of making it big in the world of rap music. Instead, he chooses to work a Southside corner at Commercial and Military Drive selling his two most recent rap cds to anyone that will give him a dollar. He has been doing this since May of last year. "I'm doing ok, sometimes its good but other times its not so good. But I do it for my family." he explained. Daddy-D is a married twenty three year old San Antonian, with a five and six year old at home. "I remember the first day I came out here to sell my cds at this corner, I was so nervous that I threw up twice. I come out here because I have to support my family and also to take care of my little boy who has special needs." he added. Daddy-D wanted for people to know that his music has no obscene language nor does it glorify drugs or crime but simply tells about everyday life and his life experiences as well as the pressures of living in San Antonio and particularly life in the Southside. Before going back to work, he mentioned that he was working on his third CD which would be on sale soon at the corner of Commercial and Military.  Congressman Canseco against raising the debt ceiling SouthSaToday.Com by Robert Castillo Congressman Francisco Canseco completed his Town Hall Tour at a meeting with constituents from his 23rd Congressional District at the Pan American Library in the city's south side. Public attendance was less than 10 people during his hour-long meeting. In his opening statement, Canseco acknowledged and thanked a San Antonio police officer for his presence at the public meeting, making reference to the incident in Arizona that ended in several deaths and many others injured by a lone gunman. Congressman Canseco's first topics dealt with his co-sponsoring a resolution to repeal the Health Care Law, which failed to pass by a 47-51 vote. His aim was to repeal the Health Care legislation while at the same time begin to replace it with House Resolution 9 which outlined several principles including lower health care costs without government takeover, medical liability reform, allowing Americans to purchase health care across state lines, increase use of health savings accounts, giving individual the same tax cuts for health care that business receive, and creation of high risk pools for those who might otherwise not be able to afford health care. Congressman Canseco took comments, from several in the audience including Eduardo Mata you asked if he would be voting in favor of raising the debt ceiling beyond the 14.3 trillion level. Canseco answered that he would not be voting in favor of raising the ceiling. Jesus Esquivel commented about the Health Care bill and the benefits of being able to get insurance for those with pre-existing conditions. Canseco also mentioned supporting House Resolution 22 which would cut the House of Representative's budget by reducing the amount authorized for salaries and expenses of House Members, committees and leadership offices. He explained that by voting to cut their own budget by 5% the House stood to safe 35 million. House Resolution 38 was also voted on during the congressman's first thirty days in office with the hopes of cutting spending back to the pre-stimulus, pre-bailout levels. The week long Town Hall Tour included meetings at Palo Alto College at Big'z Burger Joint and at the University of Texas at San Antonio. According to his staff, Canseco may visit the border area in three weeks. COMMUNITY NEWS AND EVENTS Marble Falls LakeFest
Celebration takes place this weekend in Marbles Falls.
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15th Annual Cesar Chavez March for Justice  14th Annual Cesar Chavez March for Justice  The Passion - 2010   Other News    San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo  State Farm Turkey Giveaway  Dr. John M. Gonzalez  Rock n Roll SA Marathon  2009 Start! San Antonio Heart Walk  Halloween 2009  St. James Parish Festival  Pablo Rosales, Trenzas Gloriosas.  Palm Heights National Night Out   
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