Finesilver Ranch Safety Committee

FSR Safety Blog No longer Updated

2011-08-15T15:58:00.000-05:00

This blogger is moving out of state, so for the latest conversations on happenings in Finesilver Ranch, log in to Facebook, search for Finesilver Ranch, and request to join the group.

If you don't want to make your FSR safety concern public, call Laurel at Association Management Services, 829-7202.

If it's official reporting you seek, see the links (bottom right) for crime and safety information sources.

Cheers!

April 2011 Safety Committee Report

2011-05-16T20:25:00.002-05:00

Speed Bumps Debated
Some members of FSR's neighborhood Facebook group debated the installation of speed bumps to counter speed and stop sign violations, mostly along Finesilver Dr. At the heart of the debate is child safety, especially with the Spring pool opening and Summer approaching.

Properly installed speed bumps will indeed slow most traffic at the point of the "bump." Less certain is whether speeders will slow once that particular bump is passed. Opponents worry the "sleeping policemen" will damage vehicle suspensions, offenders and non-offenders alike.

The board is aware of the conversation on Facebook and will consider the ideas, among them:

Install bumps at stop signs only
Step-up speed enforcement
Emphasize limits using radar speed display signs

Share your ideas on the Finesilver Ranch Facebook Group. To join, click "Ask to Join Group" at the upper right side of the group's page.

Shots Fired
A separate Facebook thread describes gunshots heard in the neighborhood, Friday, 8 April at about 9:30 pm. According to the post, police were called to investigate four shots heard throughout the neighborhood. There were at least three residents who heard the shots. No damage or injuries were reported.

Cellular on Patrol
Volunteers conducted two patrols during April. Homeowners were advised of open garage doors, and during Spring Break weekend, a COP team observed after hours park visitors and a suspicious person at the entrance. A Blue Armor officer was already in the neighborhood and cleared the area.

Blue Armor Patrol Summary
In addition to the park trespassers, officers wrote several parking citations. Infractions included a motorcycle parked on a sidewalk and autos parked "nose-to-curb."

SAPD Responses
The city's Police Calls by Neighborhood website has not been updated this year "due to the installation of new computer programs." The department intends to bring the service back but offers no timeline.

Sex Offender Watch
As of this post, there are no registered sex offenders residing in FSR.

SAFD Responses
San Antonio Fire/EMS responded to three medical calls to FSR during March.

Receive Safety Committee Updates Throughout the Month
Subscribe to the FSR Safety Committee Blog and follow FSRsafety on Twitter for area safety and crime prevention news throughout the month.

Questions or concerns? Post a comment on the Blog, email FSRsafety@yahoogroups.com, or call Association Management Services (829-7202).

Join the conversation on the Finesilver Ranch Facebook Group. Once logged into Facebook, search for Finesilver Ranch and click "Ask to Join Group" at the upper right side of the page.

March 2011 Safety Committee Report

2011-04-16T12:15:00.005-05:00

Vandals Have Their Way
An FSR HOA Board member observed several youths vandalizing the area around the pool and yards nearby at about 12:30 Sunday morning, 13 March. Street signs were taken, some dumped in the pool, and other mayhem perpetrated. The youths dispersed before SAPD made the scene. They were last observed heading toward Twin Post and possibly Birchbrook. If you have any info, please call AMS, 829-7202.

Cellular on Patrol
Volunteers conducted one patrol during March. There was nothing significant to report.

Blue Armor Patrol Summary
Officers wrote two citations for speeding, and in one of these cases, added infractions for a stop sign violation and reckless driving.

On 6 March, a security officer escorted solicitors off FSR property.

SAPD Responses
The city's Police Calls by Neighborhood website has not been updated this year "due to the installation of new computer programs." The department intends to bring the service back but offers no timeline.

Sex Offender Watch
As of this post, there are no registered sex offenders residing in FSR.

SAFD Responses
There were no Fire/EMS calls to FSR during March.

Receive Safety Committee Updates Throughout the Month
Subscribe to the FSR Safety Committee Blog and follow FSRsafety on Twitter for area safety and crime prevention news throughout the month.

Questions or concerns? Post a comment on the Blog, email FSRsafety@yahoogroups.com, or call Association Management Services (829-7202).

Join the conversation with your neighbors on the Finesilver Ranch Facebook Group.

February 2011 Safety Committee Report

2011-03-13T20:50:00.006-05:00

USAF Crosswalk Safety Message

Auto vs. pedestrian survivability at 25 MPH or less: 89%
Auto vs. pedestrian suvivability at speeds greater than 25 MPH: 11%
Pedistrians: Be aware of your surroundings; don't assume drivers see you
Drivers: Yield to pedestrians and don't driver faster than 25 MPH on FSR streets

The FSR HOA Board is considering adding crosswalk stripes at key intersections along Finesilver Dr. Let's emphasize pedestrian safety now that walking and jogging weather is here.

Cellular on Patrol
Neighborhood volunteers conducted three scheduled patrols during February. One team noticed an open garage door late at night but was unable to alert the occupants of their vulnerability.

The COP would like your help. Report suspicious activity to SAPD.

Interested in joining COP? Call AMS (829-7202) or email FSRsafety@yahoogroups.com for more information.

Blue Armor Patrol Summary
On Thursday, 24 February at about 6:30 pm a resident approached a Blue Armor patrol officer to report a suspicious man with a knife at the playscape. On questioning the "young adult," the officer learned the man was merely tending to his cigar with his knife. The man agreed to be more discrete, especially in the presence of children.

Security officers attempted to slow FSR speeds by making their presence known on Finesilver Dr. On Saturday, 12 February an officer observed five speeding violations and was able to stop three offenders. The remaining two continued off the property. One of the drivers cited was delivering pizzas.

Again, on Sunday, 13 February at about 6:45 pm a Blue Armor patrol observed a vehicle speeding and running stop signs on Finesilver Dr. The driver did not stop but the license plate was recorded and a letter sent to the registered owner at an out of town address.

Finally, at about 1:00 am, Wednesday, 9 February a speeding driver eluded a security officer on FSR streets. Rather than engage in pursuit, the officer posted at the gate to await the driver's departure. As the speeder was forced to stop for the gate, the officer recorded the license plate. Unfortunately, the plate did not return a current registration.

SAPD Responses
The city Police Calls by Neighborhood website has not been updated this year.

Sex Offender Watch
As of this post, there are no registered sex offenders residing in FSR.

SAFD Responses
There were no Fire/EMS calls to FSR during February.

Receive Safety Committee Updates Throughout the Month
Subscribe to the FSR Safety Committee Blog and follow FSRsafety on Twitter for area safety and crime prevention news throughout the month.

Questions or concerns? Post a comment on the Blog, email FSRsafety@yahoogroups.com, or call Association Management Services (829-7202).

Join the conversation with your neighbors on the Finesilver Ranch Facebook Group.

Follow-up: Missing Teen...Found, Safe & Sound

2011-02-20T18:10:00.001-06:00

Brianna Winter, the teenager missing from the Silverbrook neighborhood earlier this month, was found. According to a 15 February post on a forum within LayItLow, an auto hobbyist website, a person representing himself as the girl's uncle exclaimed the happy news. San Antonio Police assisted in finding her, and "she is okay."

January 2011 Safety Committee Report

2011-02-15T12:00:00.014-06:00

Leave it; Lose it

More Vehicle Burglaries in FSR
At least three vehicle burglaries were reported during January. All occurred on the south side of the neighborhood; one on Birchbrook overnight 1 - 2 Jan, and two more between midnight and 5:00 am 23 Jan on Burnwood and Bentwood View. A third break-in occurred the same night, but the location of that incident is unknown as of this post.

Vehicle burglaries are pervasive in San Antonio. The last rash of burglaries occurred in FSR during November. These smash-and-grabs offer low risk and easy pay-offs to thieves at the expense of owners who underestimate their vulnerability. Don't leave valuables in your car.

Teens Allegedly Burn Some Greenspace
On Tuesday afternoon, 11 January, a resident observed six or seven teen-aged boys playing with a fire they had allegedly started in the greenspace behind Edgecreek. While on the phone with authorities, the resident saw one of the boys stomp out the flames after burning a "large section of grass." A fire department response was not necessary, but SAPD took a report.

Cellular on Patrol

Neighborhood volunteers conducted two scheduled patrols during January. One team called SAPD to check on a suspicious vehicle parked at the community center, 14 January.

The COP would like your help. Report suspicious activity to SAPD.

Interested in joining COP? Call AMS (829-7202) or email FSRsafety@yahoogroups.com for more information.

Blue Armor Patrol Summary

On 11 January a resident on Edgecreek reported five youths aged 9-14 years were playing with paintball weapons in the greenspace behind the property. The security officer contacted the youths and determined they were Silverbrook residents armed with "Airsoft" weapons. It is unknown if these were the same boys involved with the above fire, reported the same day. They were instructed to stay clear of Finesilver Ranch.

Compared to paintball and other "toy" weapons, Airsoft guns have a lower muzzle velocity and use less harmful plastic BB's. Nevertheless, in some cases these too are illegal in San Antonio. Previous posts summarize the ordinance prohibiting children under 16 possessing any weapon that discharges a "missile" or bullet by compressed air or spring action.

A patrolman escorted two solicitors off the property, 15 January.

On 16 January, an officer received a complaint of speeders on Finesilver Dr. Since then, Blue Armor increased traffic enforcement resulting in a few citations and several warnings. A couple of drivers questioned the authority of FSR HOA's contracted security officers to issue citations for speeding on private streets. See this post for information on authorities and appeals.

SAPD Responses
The calls for service website is not updated for January as of this post. According to an officer at the Prue Substation, a new program used to load the data isn't working properly.

Sex Offender Watch
Fox29 and KENS5 reported a Stevenson MS teacher was arrested 24 January on charges of indecency with a child. The 13 year old female victim is a Stevenson student.

As of this post, there are no registered sex offenders residing in FSR.

SAFD Responses
San Antonio Fire/EMS responded to one medical call in FSR.

Receive Safety Committee Updates Throughout the Month
Subscribe to the FSR Safety Committee Blog and follow FSRsafety on Twitter for area safety and crime prevention news throughout the month.

Questions or concerns? Post a comment on the Blog, email FSRsafety@yahoogroups.com, or call Association Management Services (829-7202).

Join the conversation with your neighbors on the Finesilver Ranch Facebook Group.

Missing Teen Last Seen in Silverbrook, 6 Feb

2011-02-13T16:00:00.002-06:00

http://www.heidisearchcenter.com/

Father Shoots Son, Self in Attempted Murder-Suicide

2011-02-13T15:00:00.002-06:00

The ExpressNews reported that yesterday's 11:30 am shooting in a Braun area neighborhood near Wickersham and Guilbeau Rds was committed by the father. After critically injuring his son, the man turned the gun on himself, dying at the scene.

Initially some news outlets had the son, "in his 20s," killing his 69 YOA father during the domestic dispute on Crooked Brook. Apparently, they had long maintained a "troubled relationship."

SAFD: Keep Warm the Safe Way

2011-02-02T21:50:00.000-06:00

San Antonio Fire's Public Information Office today provided cold weather safety tips for Finesilver residents.

Fireplaces

Be sure that the flue is opened prior to lighting your fireplace. Smoke will quickly build up inside your home if you don’t open that flue.
Burn only seasoned hardwood in your fireplace. Trash, cardboard boxes and related items burn unevenly and may contain toxins.
Be sure your fireplace has a screen to prevent embers from flying out.

Space Heaters

Only use designated, indoor heating appliances to heat your home. Stoves, generators, and propane or gas space heaters are not designed for home heating use and can cause fires or toxic gas buildup.
Place space heaters at least three feet away from anything that can burn - including furniture, curtains, or even people!
Space heaters need to be turned off and fires in fireplaces properly extinguished before you go to sleep. These devices are not meant to be used without supervision! Bundle up with layers of warm cloths and blankets to keep warm without the risk of fire.

The fire department also warns against warming up a vehicle in a garage. Exhaust fumes will quickly rise to lethal levels, and, with attached garages, carbon monoxide will permeate the rest of the house.

Visit the National Fire Protection Association for more information.

Freezing temperatures are forecast for the next few days. Stay warm, be safe.

Man Dies in Wildwood-One Crash

2011-01-17T10:40:00.000-06:00

A man driving at a high rate of speed in his Honda Civic early Thursday, 13 January struck a parked car then smashed into a concrete culvert in the Wildwood One subdivision near Bandera and Guilbeau. According to Fox29, the man died at the scene, just one block from his home.

Scene of Fatal Crash Near the Walmart Access Road

December 2010 Safety Committee Report

2011-01-12T22:00:00.004-06:00

Cellular on Patrol
Neighborhood volunteers conducted three patrols during December. There was nothing significant to report.

The COP would like your help. Call AMS (829-7202) or email FSRsafety@yahoogroups.com for more information.

Blue Armor Patrol Summary
Security officers conducted patrols throughout the month. There was nothing significant to report.

SAPD Responses
Police responded to five calls for service in Finesilver Ranch, well below the 2009 average of 12 per month. There were 15 calls during December last year.

SAPD made two burglar alarms (presumed false), an unspecified theft, took a "miscellaneous" report, and documented a "written harassment" case.

Police also took five calls from the Greenbriar neighborhood near Nichols ES. Significantly, a would-be auto burglar was scared-off by a car alarm at about 4:00 am, Sunday, 12 December.

Officers also responded to a minor accident near the Greenbriar entrance, a disturbance, an alarm, and a suspicious person.

Greenbriar has about 1/4 the number of homes as Finesilver Ranch and presumably has similar demographics for crime reporting comparison.

Sex Offender Watch
As of this post, there are no registered sex offenders residing in FSR.

SAFD Responses
San Antonio Fire/EMS repeated the record five dispatches made last December. These consisted of a "smoke investigation," a false alarm, and three medical calls.

Receive Safety Committee Updates Throughout the Month
Subscribe to the FSR Safety Committee Blog and follow FSRsafety on Twitter for area safety and crime prevention news throughout the month.

Questions or concerns? Post a comment on the Blog, email FSRsafety@yahoogroups.com, or call Association Management Services (829-7202).

Join the conversation with your neighbors on the Finesilver Ranch Facebook Group.

Follow-up: Bandera Pointe Jewelry Store Burglarized

2011-01-09T11:50:00.001-06:00

On 5 January Fox29 aired security camera stills of the 20 December James Avery burglary at Bandera Pointe. Crime Stoppers offers up to $5,000 for information leading to an arrest.

Cellular on Patrol Meeting, Thursday, 6 Jan; Residents Welcome

2011-01-04T20:45:00.001-06:00

FSR Cellular on Patrol (COP) will meet at the community center, Thursday, 6 January at 6:30 pm to discuss plans for 2011. Anybody interested in neighborhood safety and crime prevention is invited.

We'd like additional volunteers. Learn more about COP Thursday night.

Bandera Pointe Jewelry Store Burglarized

2010-12-21T12:15:00.002-06:00

Employees of the James Avery at Bandera Pointe discovered Monday morning their store was burglarized during the night. According to FOX29, merchandise valued at about $5000 was stolen. Entry was gained by smashing a store window with a large rock.

Reporters also learned a neighboring jewelry store installed reinforced windows after they were victimized a couple years a go. Since then, the owner said he's noticed burglary attempts, but the rocks merely chipped the glass. Tough lesson learned.

Update: Auto Burglars Loot FSR, 18 November

2010-12-19T16:45:00.001-06:00

A review of recent police reports shows FSR residents found property related to the 18 November vehicle burglaries. In one case, a burglary victim recovered his own property from a drainage culvert near the scene of the crime on Edgecreek. In the other, a resident on Andover Creek found a bag (male's, no further description), apparently empty.

To claim lost (or stolen) property, call SAPD's Found Property Office, 207-7610.

Another resident found a woman's coat in her yard on Summer Bluff. This was not reported to police but may be claimed by contacting the FSR Safety Cmte: Post a comment, email FSRsafety@yahoogroups.com, or call, 829-7202.

November 2010 Safety Committee Report

2010-12-10T17:20:00.004-06:00

Vehicle Burglaries Increase;
Few Victims File Police Reports

The FSR Safety Committee received anecdotal reports of six vehicles burglarized and/or vandalized 18 November. However, police were called in only three cases, according to SAPD logs.

The safety committee uses official reports to determine the scope of property crimes in FSR and to recommend crime prevention efforts. More importantly, city officials review crime reporting to determine the appropriate level of policing needed. If you're the victim of a vehicle burglary or other "minor" property crime, please call 207-SAPD, or go online, to file a report.

Vehicle burglaries are increasing in the Braun area with another rash of break-ins occurring in Silverbrook earlier this week. Please: Remove valuables, call-in suspicious activity, report the crime.

Cellular on Patrol
Neighborhood volunteers conducted four patrols during November. There was nothing significant to report. The COP is always looking for help. Call AMS (829-7202) or email FSRsafety@yahoogroups.com for more information.

Blue Armor Patrol Summary
On 10 November an officer was dispatched to remove solicitors. Upon arrival he learned SAPD had already taken care of the problem.

A patrolman questioned a suspicious person near the FSR entrance on Braun Rd at about 2:00 am, 21 November. The person was picked up by a passer-by. The officer checked the area and determined all was in order.

A security officer noted several trees at the park were draped in toilet paper 28 November. There was no damage to facilities.

Security officers also cited vehicles for illegal parking and expired registrations to enforce covenants.

SAPD Responses
Police responded to 12 calls for service in Finesilver Ranch, equal to the 2009 monthly average. There were eight calls during November last year.

Calls related to the vehicle burglaries on 18 November figured prominently. Police took information on two of the burglaries (Boundbrook and Edgecreek) and vandalism to a vehicle on Fringewood. Officers also collected found property on Edgecreek and Andover Creek, discovered 18 and 22 November. The committee is working with SAPD to identify the property and determine whether it is related to the burglaries.

Officers also answered three burglar alarms and investigated two miscellaneous incidents, a suspicious person on Chapelwood (10 November, probably the solicitors noted above), and an unspecified theft.

One miscellaneous report was taken in the Greenbriar neighborhood near Nichols ES.
Greenbriar has about 1/4 the number of homes as Finesilver Ranch and presumably has similar demographics for crime reporting comparison.

Sex Offender Watch
As of this post, there are no registered sex offenders residing in FSR.

SAFD Responses
San Antonio Fire/EMS made three medical calls to Finesilver Ranch during November.

Receive Safety Committee Updates Throughout the Month
Subscribe to the FSR Safety Committee Blog and follow FSRsafety on Twitter for area safety and crime prevention news throughout the month.

Questions or concerns? Post a comment on the Blog, email FSRsafety@yahoogroups.com, or call Association Management Services (829-7202).

Join the conversation with over 70 neighbors on the Finesilver Ranch Facebook Group.

Saddlebrook Neighbors Attempt to Extinguish Fire

2010-11-26T07:45:00.001-06:00

Residents of the Saddlebrook neighborhood near Braun and 1604 called the fire department Tuesday, 16 November after noticing smoke emanating from an attached garage on Preakness Pass. Their attempts to put the fire out with a garden hose failed when they couldn't open the garage door. The homeowner was away at the time of the fire, about 3:00 pm, according to an SAFD report.

Three engines, a ladder truck, and a medic made the scene with the first crew arriving in about six minutes. Damage was sustained throughout the garage, a wall on the second story, and a portion of the attic. A vehicle parked inside was also damaged.

Firefighters were on the scene for about 90 minutes. They determined the fire started among combustible materials stored on a shelf in the garage. The value of property lost was not given. There were no injuries.

It's been a busy month for Braun area SAFD stations. Firefighters also responded to brush fires reported at Braun and Leslie on the 13th, another at 1604 and Braun the 19th, and a small fuel spill at the Valero, Bandera and Prue, on 12 November.

City Crew Accidentally Knocks Out Power

2010-11-22T16:10:00.002-06:00

A City of San Antonio crew working in the vicinity of Single Spur and Braun accidentally cut service to an overhead power line this morning at around 11:00, according to a CPS representative.

Power to Finesilver Ranch was intermittent, and mostly out, for about an hour. According to the CPS Energy Outage Map, at one point over four thousand customers were without power. Service appeared to be mostly restored by 2:00 Monday afternoon, though eight customers were still without power at 4:00.

Escaped Cougar Locks-Down Area Schools

2010-11-20T19:45:00.005-06:00

A cougar escaped from her enclosure at the Wild Animal Orphanage near New Guilbeau and 1604 Friday morning. The scare resulted in an hours-long "soft" lock down of area schools while police swept several acres surrounding the Leslie Rd facility. Students of at least one Northside school, Galm ES, spent recess inside.

The sedated cougar was returned to
Wild Animal Orphanage (KSAT.com)

The first call for help came when the former manager of the sanctuary saw the cougar attacking her dog at her nearby home.

She kicked the big cat away before it could inflict a fatal injury, but the dog remains under the care of a vet.

By 3:30 the cougar was located near Leslie and 1604 and darted with a tranquilizer. Both dog and cat are recovering nicely.

Local media provided broad coverage: NEWS4, KENS5, KSAT12, FOX29, and Express News.

Auto Burglars Loot Finesilver Ranch

2010-11-18T22:15:00.002-06:00

Six vehicles were burglarized overnight Wednesday between 11:30 and 5:30, all on the south side of FSR. Three break-ins occurred on Edgecreek and one each was reported on Atwell Park, Summer Bluff, and Boundbrook.

One victim passed an anecdotal report from a resident who observed "a suspicious light colored mustang driving down Finesilver with its lights off." The resident later "heard it driving around the neighborhood." It is unknown whether police were called on sighting the suspicious vehicle.

It was only two weeks a go that burglars hit five autos in the Greenbriar neighborhood. That crime spree included a single break-in within FSR, 28 October, also on Edgecreek. A vehicle burglary also occurred on Boundbrook, 14 October.

A pattern has emerged: The south side of FSR is most vulnerable, thieves prefer weeknights, and they're attracted to electronics left in the open and any bag or case which may merely appear to contain valuables. Gate video, security logs, and police reports will be reviewed to develop a better understanding of these latest burglaries.

Finesilver Ranch Cellular on Patrol volunteers and Blue Armor Security have been alerted. If you see suspicious activity, call 207-SAPD, or, if you believe a crime is in progress, call 911. If you'd like to join FSR's COP team, call Association Management Services, 829-7202, or email FSRsafety@yahoogroups.com.

Attempted Car-jackings at Braun Rd Gas Stations

2010-11-17T20:15:00.001-06:00

Two women were victims of separate car-jacking attempts at gas stations on Braun Rd late Monday night or early Tuesday. The incidents happened within minutes of each other according to a KENS5 report.

The first incident occurred at the Valero station at 1604 and Braun. The victim refused to relinquish her truck, so the would-be thieves broke a window and dented the vehicle in several places.

Shortly after, the crooks attempted to steal a vehicle from another woman, this time at the Exxon station at Bandera and Braun.

According to the news report, SAPD has the license plate number and video of the assailants. The time of the incidents and number of suspects involved were not provided by KENS5.

October 2010 Safety Committee Report

2010-11-11T22:00:00.004-06:00

Burglaries and Thefts Reported
Two autos were burglarized, one on Boundbrook, 14 October and another on Edgecreek on the 28th. The latter was one of many vehicle burglaries that occurred in Braun area neighborhoods, 26 - 28 October.

Greenbriar, near Nichols ES, was hit hardest with thefts from six vehicles .

Burglars are after GPS receivers, other electronics, cash and credit cards, and any bag or case that may appear to contain these items (whether they do or not).

Less costly, but invasive none-the-less: A decorative deer went missing from a front yard on Atwell Park, overnight 10 October. This is a repeat theft of garden features from this property. One-by-one they disappear, so, according to the homeowner, they won't be replaced.

New Gate Post Struck

The entry gate was damaged yet again, 6 October despite the smaller footprint presented by the new center post. The repair came faster and cheaper, but FSR residents are stuck with the bill: Video shows the hit and run vehicle, a white "dually" pick-up pulling a goose neck trailer, had no plates.

Mind the Signs

It's your neighborhood, your neighbors, your vehicle, your responsibility. Drive friendly, FSR!

Cellular on Patrol
Neighborhood volunteers conducted four patrols during October, including two on Halloween night. There was nothing significant to report.

The COP is always open to new volunteers. Call AMS (829-7202) or email FSRsafety@yahoogroups.com for more information.

Blue Armor Patrol Summary
Early Saturday afternoon, 16 October, an officer approached juveniles playing with paint guns at the open space near Finesilver and Cove Creek. The kids ran off before the officer could inform them of ordinances prohibiting their use.

An officer observed several juveniles at the community center at about 10:30 pm, Thursday, 21 October. All of them ran into the woods on seeing the Blue Armor patrol car drive up. Despite the suspicious behavior, the officer found everything in its place.

Blue Armor made extra patrols of FSR streets the night before, during, and after Halloween festivities. There was nothing significant to report.

SAPD Responses
Police responded to only six calls for service in Finesilver Ranch marking low call volume for two consecutive months. There were 16 calls during October last year. The 2009 call average was 12 per month.

Officers investigated a vehicle burglary on Edgecreek, a suspicious vehicle on Bakerswood, two burglar alarms, took a "miscellaneous" report, and assisted fire/EMS with an injured or sick party.

The Greenbriar neighborhood near Nichols ES surpassed FSR's October call load. There were six vehicle burglaries, a report of threats, a disturbance, a missing person, and two cases marked "miscellaneous."
Greenbriar has about 1/4 the number of homes as Finesilver Ranch and presumably has similar demographics for crime reporting comparison.

Sex Offender Watch
As of this post, there are no registered sex offenders residing in FSR.

SAFD Responses
San Antonio Fire/EMS made two medical calls to Finesilver Ranch during October.

Receive Safety Committee Updates Throughout the Month
Subscribe to the FSR Safety Committee Blog and follow FSRsafety on Twitter for area safety and crime prevention news throughout the month.

Questions or concerns? Post a comment on the Blog, email FSRsafety@yahoogroups.com, or call Association Management Services (829-7202)

Join the conversation with over 70 neighbors on the Finesilver Ranch Facebook Group.

Oven Fire Extinguished at Stagecoach Run

2010-11-06T12:30:00.004-05:00

An engine and a ladder company responded to a kitchen fire on the 9300 block of Aspen Oak in Stagecoach Run at about 12:30 pm Sunday. Firefighters quickly extinguished grease which had ignited in the oven.

SAFD confirmed the fire had not extended elsewhere then cleared the scene after about 10 minutes. There were no injuries and no property damage was reported.

Auto Burglars Return to Braun Area Neighborhoods

2010-11-02T22:45:00.002-05:00

Seven vehicles in Finesilver Ranch, Greenbriar, and Silverbrook were burglarized 26 - 28 October   according to SAPD reports. Greenbriar was hit hardest with five burglaries. The lone burglary in FSR occurred on Edgecreek, Thursday the 28th.

Multiple vehicle burglary incidents are rare in Greenbriar, the small gated community off Braun near Nichols ES.  Possibly most FSR residents were spared this time as disappointed burglars moved to a more target rich environment.

Remain alert. Braun neighborhoods were last targeted during September and outbreaks of multiple vehicle burglaries in a single night have occurred in FSR three times this year with other single incidents interspersed.

Leave it; Lose it.

Halloween: Please Trick Friendly

2010-10-29T21:30:00.002-05:00

The FSR Social Committee says the annual "Halloweenie Roast" begins 5:30 Sunday at the park. The sun will set at 6:48, so beware of hotdog-fed trick-or-treaters hitting the streets about that time. Please turn your lights on to signal your intent to welcome costumed guests.

A Blue Armor officer is scheduled to be in the area during peak traffic time to promote safety, and our own Cellular on Patrol will cruise Finesilver Ranch later that night to deter beyond the pale shenanigans.

Play the Halloween Safety Game to prepare for a fun and safe evening, and look for more safety information at the roast.

COSA Prohibits "TXT MSG" While Driving

2010-10-18T21:20:00.001-05:00

SAPD to issue warnings for 90 days; $200 fine thereafter. ExpressNews

Mountain Biker Injured at O.P. Schnabel

2010-10-14T22:30:00.004-05:00

A man biking at O.P. Schnabel sustained a possible head injury after crashing off a trail in the southeast area of the park. Six SAFD units took the call at about 6:00 Sunday evening.

The incident apparently occurred deep in the park requiring the expertise and equipment of two "Heavy Rescue" teams to aid the victim. The patient was transferred to an ambulance waiting on John Barrett in the French Creek subdivision; his condition is not available. The last unit cleared the scene at 9:00.

This marks one of the first dispatches for the department's new Heavy Rescue 51, presently stationed near IH-10 and Boerne Stage Rd. The unit will eventually move to a station to be built near IH-10 and UTSA Bv.

This is the city's second dedicated Heavy Rescue vehicle. Previously, SAFD's sole Heavy Rescue unit worked out of one of the downtown stations. The new apparatus is positioned to improve technical rescue response times, especially to Northwest San Antonio.

September 2010 Safety Committee Report

2010-10-12T22:25:00.001-05:00

Pool Trespassing Nuisance Leads to Altercation

Early Saturday morning, 18 September, a Blue Armor Security Officer happened upon a group of people in the pool after hours. As reported last month, all but one in the group fled the area in a light colored Honda van. When the officer questioned the remaining trespasser, the apparently intoxicated man threatened the patrolman, and after a minor scuffle, ran into the woods. SAPD checked the area but was unable to find the man or the Honda.

Later, a review of gate camera video recorded during the time of the incident revealed the same van entered the neighborhood a few times over an hour, as the trespassers were apparently searching for their companion. The video confirmed the tag number documented by the security officer. Further action is pending the outcome of a review of the incident with the HOA and the security company.

Cellular on Patrol
Neighborhood volunteers conducted four late night patrols during September and notified grateful residents of six open garage doors. The COP is always open to new volunteers. Call AMS (829-7202) or email FSRsafety@yahoogroups.com for more information.

Blue Armor Patrol Summary
Officers conducted routine security patrols and monitored Finesilver Dr for speeders and stop sign violations. Excepting the above pool trespassing, no unusual activity was observed.

SAPD Responses
Police responded to only seven calls for service in Finesilver Ranch, the lowest call volume this year. There were 10 calls during September last year. The 2009 call average was 12 per month.

Officers investigated four burglar alarms, took two "miscellaneous" reports, and assisted Blue Armor Security regarding the pool trespassing incident.

The Greenbriar neighborhood near Nichols ES matched FSR's September call load. There were three threat reports taken, an unconfirmed burglary, a forgery, and two "miscellaneous" cases.
Greenbriar, with about 1/4 the number of homes as Finesilver Ranch, is the closest gated community and presumably has similar demographics for crime reporting comparison.

Sex Offender Watch
As of this post, there are no registered sex offenders residing in FSR.

SAFD Responses
There were no fire/EMS dispatches to Finesilver Ranch during September.

Receive Safety Committee Updates Throughout the Month
Subscribe to the FSR Safety Committee Blog and follow FSRsafety on Twitter for area safety and crime prevention news throughout the month.

Questions or concerns? Post a comment on the Blog, email FSRsafety@yahoogroups.com, or call Association Management Services (829-7202)

Join the conversation with over 70 neighbors on the Finesilver Ranch Facebook Group.

Local Radio Shack Burglarized

2010-10-11T17:00:00.001-05:00

The Radio Shack near Bandera and 1604 was burglarized early this morning according to KSAT 12. Thieves removed a window to gain entry. "They stole several items including toys and remote control cars, police said."

Quick Response Snuffs Fire on Porch

2010-10-09T15:20:00.001-05:00

Six fire units were dispatched early Wednesday afternoon to a Braun Station home on Upton. Firefighters found a small fire on the back porch started by an unattended ashtray. The Engine 49 crew arrived within five minutes and extinguished the fire before most other units made the scene. No property loss or injuries were reported.

Thank You, NNO Celebrants

2010-10-07T21:00:00.002-05:00

Finesilver Ranch residents had at least 11 block parties to choose from to celebrate National Night Out Tuesday evening. From Atwell Park (left) to Branwood, the FSR Safety and Social Cmtes thank all who joined their neighbors to make a community statement against crime.

Special thanks to our gracious hosts!

Stars of the night: Engine 49 and...future crew?

See more Chapelwood fun here.

Braun Congestion Eases as Super Street Moves On

2010-10-06T07:00:00.010-05:00

It's been a couple weeks since TxDOT finished improving the Braun & 1604 intersection. Among the changes are new and lengthened turn lanes in both directions on 1604 and additional lanes on Braun.

The final touch on Braun, pictured above, does seem to make a substantial difference for westbound commuters at the frustrating choke point.

As for the rest of West Loop 1604, the Super Street option passed an environmental impact hurdle last week. Work should begin at the New Guilbeau and Shaenfield intersections at 1604 beginning next year with completion scheduled summer 2011.

Alas, there are no overpasses in the immediate future. But using the Super Street design, TxDOT hopes to minimize red light wait times on the Loop by eliminating left turns onto 1604 from feeder streets.

This northwest stretch of 1604 was recently ranked most congested in the county.

National Night Out is Tuesday, 5 October

2010-09-27T07:00:00.005-05:00

Join your neighbors Tuesday, 5 October from 7:00 to 9:00 to celebrate National Night Out.

Heighten crime & drug prevention awareness
Generate support for and participation in neighborhood watch
Strengthen police - community partnerships
Show criminals Finesilver Ranch is organized and fighting back

Parties are at the following locations:

22 Atwell Park 3/5 Boundbrook

17/19 Branwood 6 Brentcove

4 Chapelwood 12 Ferris Branch

23 Ferris Creek 5 Fringewood

8 Twinpost 31 Sweetwood

Visit the party nearest you as FSR welcomes Blue Armor Security, San Antonio Police, and San Antonio Fire.

Pool Trespassing Leads to Altercation with Officer

2010-09-20T20:50:00.001-05:00

At about 2:30 Saturday morning a Blue Armor security officer fended off an intoxicated man near the Finesilver Ranch pool while investigating after hours swimmers.

According to a Blue Armor report, the officer was conducting a routine security patrol when he observed a group of people in the pool after hours. On seeing the officer, the group hopped the fence and scattered. Shortly after, the officer encountered one apparently intoxicated male near the pool. The man was belligerent when questioned and moved aggressively toward the officer. After the patrolman pushed the assailant to the ground, the man picked himself up and ran off.

Meanwhile, the other trespassers departed in a silver van. SAPD responded but was unable to find the vehicle or the man.

Vehicle Burglars Hit Braun Area

2010-09-19T10:50:00.000-05:00

Police reports show four vehicle burglaries occurred between 6 and 9 September in the Silverbrook and Braun's Farm neighborhoods.

The take was low: In two cases burglars broke windows and rummaged through vehicles but didn't steal anything. In the other incidents a GPS and a sport bag containing clothing was stolen from one car and a CD/Radio from another.

Three of the burglaries were on Silverbrook streets: Two on Sandbrook Hill and one on Summerbrook. The Braun's Farm vehicle burglary was on Silvermoon.

SAPD says Leave it; Lose it. FSR Safety adds: "Hide it if you leave it." If an item left behind merely appears valuable, you're more vulnerable to receiving a smashed window.

August 2010 Safety Committee Report

2010-09-12T22:10:00.002-05:00

National Night Out Planned
National Night Out, "America's Night Out Against Crime" will take place throughout Texas, including San Antonio and Finesilver Ranch, Tuesday 5 October. The FSR Safety Committee and FSR Social Committee team-up again to coordinate this annual crime prevention event. We're hoping for several block parties, so look for future posts and fliers to announce locations. If you would like to host a pot luck during NNO, call Association Management Services (829-7202) or email FSRsafety@yahoogroups.com.

Pillar Replaced
The stone pillar at the entry gate was struck for the last time, 20 August. A city garbage truck toppled the gate as it entered FSR for collection rounds. Since then, the stonework was replaced by material similar to the gates themselves. The new arrangement allows more clearance for vehicles maneuvering through the visitor gate and, if struck in the future, will allow for easier and less costly repair.

Cellular on Patrol Activity
Volunteers conducted three late night patrols during August. Teams alerted homeowners to open garage doors, reminded youth of the city's 11:00 pm curfew, and contacted vehicle owners about suspicious circumstances. The COP is always open to new volunteers. Call AMS (829-7202) or email FSRsafety@yahoogroups.com for more information.

Blue Armor Patrol Summary
Officers conducted routine security patrols, monitored Finesilver Dr for speeders and stop sign violations, and reminded youth of park hours. No suspicious activity was observed.

SAPD Responses
Police responded to 15 calls for service in Finesilver Ranch. There were 19 calls during August last year. The 2009 call average was 12 per month.

See "SAFD Responses" below for a vehicle vs pedestrian incident.

Other calls included the garbage truck vs pillar accident, six alarms (presumably false), an unspecified theft on Bakerswood, a disturbance and a separate report of criminal mischief at the same address on Atwell Park, and two miscellaneous reports.

A suspicious person was reported at Sweetwood and Finesilver, 11:10 am, 6 August; and a suspicious vehicle was reported on Birchbrook, at about 12:40 am, 15 August.

Police responded to the Greenbriar neighborhood near Nichols ES on four occasions for an injured or sick person and three "miscellaneous" cases.
Greenbriar, with about 1/4 the number of homes as Finesilver Ranch, is the closest gated community and presumably has similar demographics for crime reporting comparison.

Sex Offender Watch
As of this post, there are no registered sex offenders residing in FSR.

SAFD Responses
Firefighters were dispatched to Finesilver Ranch three times during August.

An engine and a medic unit responded at about 2:15 am, 22 August to a person struck by a car near the intersection of Bakerswood and Birchbrook. According to the SAFD report, their patient presented minor injuries after being dragged 20 feet by a vehicle as he was attempting to stop the driver. The patient did not require transportation, so the ambulance was cancelled enroute. Police also made the scene, but further information is not available.

Under less urgent circumstances, a truck was dispatched to close the entry gate on 31 August at about 2:30 pm. The gate was secured using their key box. The FSR Safety Committee recommends calling Association Management Services (829-7202) when gate problems are noted.

The third Fire/EMS response was an unspecified medical call.

Receive Safety Committee Updates Throughout the Month
Subscribe to the FSR Safety Committee Blog and follow FSRsafety on Twitter for area safety and crime prevention news throughout the month.

Questions or concerns? Post a comment on the Blog, email FSRsafety@yahoogroups.com, or call Association Management Services (829-7202)

Join the conversation with over 70 neighbors on the Finesilver Ranch Facebook Group.

Drive Safely this Labor Day Weekend

2010-09-03T22:50:00.000-05:00

Lackland AFB safety display reminding all: "Drive Friendly"

1604; Culebra to Bandera Ranked Most Congested

2010-09-02T21:00:00.007-05:00

Today TxDOT presented their annual list of the most congested roadways in the state. One would expect that 281 north of 1604 placed first in Bexar County, yet it was the stretch of 1604 from Culebra to Bandera Rds that claimed the dubious honor as the slowest moving road in the area.

For all the details, see TxDOT's press release, the Express News story, and check out a nice summary at On the Move:

1604, Culebra to Bandera

945,701 annual hours of delay, or about 197,000 hours per mile...
costing commuters $20.6 million....
rush hour trip takes 51% longer than an off-peak trip.

KSAT12 reports help is in progress at Braun and 1604. Hopefully there's more in store for the intersection. The additional westbound lane of Braun striped earlier this week did not shorten the queue at the light as hoped.

Neighbors Counter Request for Residential Youth Facility

2010-09-01T20:55:00.000-05:00

Finesilver Ranch and Braun Station residents traded emails this past week on a proposed zoning change "to accommodate a residential facility for migrant youth" at the Protege' Child Development Center property on Ryder Rd near Braun and Old Tezel.

District-7 City Councilman Justin Rodriguez engaged with organizers of Southwest Key Programs on nearby homeowners' concerns about the "vagueness" and "incompatibility" of the project. Finding no "middle ground," Councilman Rodriguez announced by email yesterday that the non-profit had since "abandoned" their re-zoning request.

According to Southwest Key's website, the non-profit offers "innovative youth justice programs, safe shelters for immigrant children, college prep and alternative schools and workforce services..." Some of the emails and phone calls among residents expressed concern about the impact such a facility might have on community safety and property values.

News4 Chopper Orbits FSR

2010-08-23T20:10:00.002-05:00

WOAI File Photo

Some FSR residents noticed a news helicopter overhead this morning at about 7:15. According to a WOAI staffer, their SkyNews 4 was tracking a minor accident at 1604 and Braun which was "causing some major traffic on 1604." The wreck exacerbated already heavy traffic on this first day back to school.

City Garbage Truck Topples Gate Pillar

2010-08-21T20:15:00.001-05:00

A San Antonio Solid Waste Management Dept. truck knocked down the pillar separating the FSR entry gates at about 1:15 Friday. Video shows a worker riding on the back of the truck attempted to warn the driver then dismounted before the right rear clipped the pillar.

A city supervisor arrived shortly after the accident. Association Management Services and police were notified.

The pillar was struck four times in seven months last year which elicited questions on whether entry modifications were necesary. The pillar was also struck once in 2008. This is is the first time for 2010.

Dry Grass Kindles Fire Near Braun & Tezel

2010-08-13T10:15:00.001-05:00

SAFD extinguished a small grass fire near Braun and Tezel early Monday evening. Crews also made two trash fires Wednesday in the Guilbeau and Bandera vicinity between 5:00 and 8:00 pm. They made quick work of these minor incidents.

It's unknown to what extent the dry weather contributed to the fires Wednesday, but the dry ground certainly kindled Monday's. Just as last year, be mindful how easily brush and grass fires are sparked these dog days of summer: Don't toss your butts out the window. Also, avoid driving off paved surfaces since the vehicle's catalytic converter provides enough heat to ignite natural tinder.

According to a Braunridge amateur weather station there's been virtually no rain since early July. Forecast? More of the same.

July 2010 Safety Committee Report

2010-08-10T19:00:00.005-05:00

Third Outbreak of Vehicle Burglaries this Year

Another string of vehicle burglaries occurred in Finesilver Ranch during July. Based on SAPD reports alone, this is the third outbreak this year and the fourth since December. Continuing the trend, the three break-ins that occurred overnight 24 July were on the south side of FSR.

Blue Armor Security and FSR's neighborhood watch group were notified, but the best defense against vehicle burglaries is to park in the garage or to remove valuables.

Quick Repair to Damaged Braun Rd Stop Sign
A resident found the stop sign at Braun and Finesilver laying on the road Sunday, 11 July. She called Association Management Services and within a couple hours the city had a temporary in place. Neighbors, don't hesitate to call AMS (829-7202) or the city of San Antonio (311) when something is out of place. They'll work to fix the problem as soon as possible.

Cellular on Patrol Activity
Volunteers conducted four late night patrols during July. No unusual activity was spotted, though some residents were warned of open garage doors. The COP is always open to new volunteers. Call AMS (829-7202) or email FSRsafety@yahoogroups.com for more information.

Blue Armor Patrol Summary
Security officers and SAPD responded to a report of approximately 12 people drinking and fighting in the vicinity of the pool at about 3:00 Friday morning, 30 July. The group left the area by the time officers arrived.

During routine patrols, Blue Armor monitored Finesilver Dr for speeders and cited suspected abandoned vehicles and parking violators.

SAPD Responses
Police responded to 17 calls for service in Finesilver Ranch. There were 12 calls during July last year, matching the 2009 call average of 12 per month.

The calls included the three vehicle burglaries, the aforementioned fight, two reports of an assault, a disturbance, an unspecified theft, one identity theft case, six burglar alarm responses, a miscellaneous report, and one unspecified burglary.

Of note, three of the 17 calls were reported at one address on different dates for assault, disturbance, and burglary.

Police responded to the Greenbriar neighborhood near Nichols ES for a disturbance and a credit card abuse complaint.
Greenbriar, with about 1/4 the number of homes as Finesilver Ranch, is the closest gated community and presumably has similar demographics for crime reporting comparison.

Sex Offender Watch
As of this post, there are no registered sex offenders residing in FSR.

SAFD Responses
Firefighters made three medical calls to Finesilver Ranch during June.

Receive Safety Committee Updates Throughout the Month
Subscribe to the FSR Safety Committee Blog and follow FSRsafety on Twitter for area safety and crime prevention news throughout the month.

Questions or concerns? Post a comment on the Blog, email FSRsafety@yahoogroups.com, or call Association Management Services (829-7202)

Join the conversation with over 60 neighbors on the Finesilver Ranch Facebook Group.

Arson Investigated at a Chase Oaks House

2010-08-09T17:30:00.002-05:00

An unoccupied house on the 9200 block of Peuplier in the Chase Oaks subdivision was set afire 26 July. Firefighters arrived at about 9:00 that Monday morning to discover two small fires on the first floor of the two story house. An arson investigator was summoned due to the suspicious nature of the fire.

According to an SAPD report the owner of the house near New Guilbeau Rd moved out four years ago. The arson investigator learned kids were observed running from the scene but she was apparently unable to develop the lead.

The fire department dispatched a ladder truck and three engines. Most firefighters were on location for about 90 minutes. SAFD estimated $10,000 in damages, largely due to smoke. Nobody was injured.

More Changes for 1604 & Braun

2010-08-07T17:00:00.001-05:00

A blogger reports more improvements for the 1604 and Braun intersection.

Earlier this summer, lanes were added for north- and southbound 1604 traffic. Probably some time this month, a new westbound lane will be added to Braun Rd to alleviate the back-ups caused by the dedicated left turn lane to southbound 1604.

This work is part of a larger project to improve flow on the northwest portions of 1604, from 151 to Braun. See On the Move by the Texas Highway Man for more information on these projects.

Three Vehicle Burglaries Reported, Late July

2010-08-04T22:30:00.001-05:00

According to police records made public this week, vehicles parked at residences on Finesilver Ranch's southeast streets were burglarized, probably overnight Saturday, 24 July. In one case entry was apparently made by breaking the driver's door lock. A high-end car audio system was stolen.

The burglaries were reported on Bakerswood, Birchbrook, and Bentwood View.

A post on the Finesilver Ranch Facebook Group notes another vehicle burglary occurred overnight Tuesday 6 July, in the same part of the neighborhood. In that case nothing of significant value was taken, according to the Facebook contributor.

Vehicle burglaries previously occurred in FSR during May, when at least two thefts were reported on Atwell Park. See the flyer distributed by FSR's Cellular on Patrol neighborhood watch group for vehicle burglary prevention tips.

Man Shot at Bandera & Guilbeau

2010-07-31T16:45:00.001-05:00

A man was injured early Monday 26 July while fleeing a robbery attempt at the intersection of Bandera and Guilbeau Rds. According to News4, the man was stopped at the traffic signal when another man approached him from an adjacent car and demanded his wallet and cell phone.

Fox29 said the victim hit the accelerator and ducked, but was "peppered" by shotgun birdshot pellets to the neck and arm. He was able to drive to his residence in the Braun Heights subdivision. EMS transported him to University Hospital where he was expected to fully recover.

Gas Spills at Braun Rd Exxon

2010-07-18T10:46:00.000-05:00

Firefighters responded to a fuel spill at the Exxon station, Braun and Bandera Rds, 10:45 Saturday morning. There were no injuries. This is the second spill at the Exxon reported to fire officials this month and the fourth since December.

It is unknown whether there's a problem with the pumps at this particular station or perhaps Exxon employees maintain more stringent reporting criteria. Regardless, use diligence while
filling-up.

June 2010 Safety Committee Report

2010-07-07T07:00:00.001-05:00

Another Month, Another Gate Incident
An FSR resident got himself in a jam 28 June as he was towing his boat out of the neighborhood. After a bit of maneuvering and with the assistance of a fellow "Rancher," he was able to get underway with no permanent damage to the gate.

As for last month's crash into the pedestrian gate, Association Management Services continues attempts to recover repair costs.

Pool Mischief
Residents found the lifeguard stand and other gear dumped in the water Friday morning, 4 June. They graciously picked-up the mess.

Please be alert to people in the vicinity of the pool after hours. "Foreign objects" thrown in the pool are not only a nuisance, but they may damage the recently refurbished pool lining. Call AMS (829-7202) and SAPD (207-7273) to report suspicious activity.

Pool Hygiene
Two times during June the pool was closed due to excrement found in the water. Please read and heed the Swimming Pool Rules & Guidelines issued with each pool pass. This is an important safety issue according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

Understanding that pool closure is necessary for proper disinfection and protection of the health and safety of swimmers is likely to promote support rather than frustration. Pool closures allow chlorine to do its job — to kill germs and help prevent recreational water illnesses (RWIs).

Cellular on Patrol Activity
Volunteers conducted four late night patrols during June spotting a record (13) open garage doors, six during one patrol alone. The vast majority of homeowners were notified of the vulnerabilities. In one case, 18 June, a COP member was unable to contact the resident. SAPD responded, checked the open garage, and secured the door on confirming there were no signs of foul play.

A patrol on 25 June informed AMS the visitor entry gate was stuck open. A gate technician responded quickly to fix the problem.

COP is always open to new volunteers. The next training will start 10 July at the Prue Substation near Fredericksburg and Prue on consecutive Saturday mornings, 8:00 - 12:00. Call AMS (829-7202) or email FSRsafety@yahoogroups.com for more information.

Blue Armor Patrol Summary
An officer directed traffic at the intersection of Finesilver and Cove Creek before and at the close of the swim meet, 22 June. While preparing to depart, a resident reported that a guest of the visiting team noticed the rear of his Mercedes was damaged. Apparently someone had attempted to remove the emblem from the trunk lid. SAPD responded to take a report.

In routine activity, officers reported gate malfunctions on three occasions. Gate technicians were dispatched to make repairs as requested.

Officers also cited suspected abandoned or improperly stored vehicles. Finally, speed and stop sign compliance was emphasized during four patrol periods during June with no citations issued.

SAPD Responses
Police responded to 21 calls for service in Finesilver Ranch; there were 19 calls during June last year. The monthly average for 2009 was 12 calls.

Most of the calls were burglary alarms (10) with a variety of unspecified "miscellaneous" calls ranking close behind at seven. One such miscellaneous call was the open garage door found by COP.

The remaining dispatches included a criminal mischief report at the community center 22 June, probably the vehicle damaged during the swim meet. SAPD also responded to a suspicious person in the area of the community center, just after 8:00, Monday evening, 28 June. Details are not available.

A burglary was reported on Sweetwood, 24 June, but dispatch records indicate the responding officer may have changed the nature of the call to a "theft." Details are not available.

In the Greenbriar neighborhood near Nichols ES, police responded to one miscellaneous call.
Greenbriar, with about 1/4 the number of homes as Finesilver Ranch, is the closest gated community and presumably has similar demographics for crime reporting comparison.

Sex Offender Watch
As of this post, there are no registered sex offenders residing in FSR.

SAFD Responses
Firefighters made one EMS call to Finesilver Ranch during June.

Receive Safety Committee Updates Throughout the Month
Subscribe to the FSR Safety Committee Blog and follow FSRsafety on Twitter for area safety and crime prevention news throughout the month.

Questions or concerns? Post a comment on the Blog, email FSRsafety@yahoogroups.com, or call Association Management Services (829-7202)

For more FSR news and views, join over 60 neighbors on the Finesilver Ranch Facebook Group.

SUV vs. House off Guilbeau Near Bandera

2010-07-03T16:15:00.002-05:00

A teen driver westbound on Guilbeau lost control of his SUV while avoiding an inattentive driver near the intersection with Dawnwood late Tuesday morning. He crashed through a backyard privacy fence of a home on Misty Willow and came to rest in the living room, according to Fox29 and other media outlets. Fortunately nobody was home at the time. There were no injuries.

Would-be Boater Runs Aground at the Gate

2010-07-03T15:40:00.001-05:00

A resident towing a boat misjudged his alignment while departing Finesilver Ranch late Monday morning, 28 June, blocking the exit for about 15 minutes. Gate video shows the boat gradually rubbed against the gate and came to a stop before clearing the exit. Assisted by another resident, the would-be boater eventually successfully navigated out of FSR.

Residents report the exit gate derailed as a result. They put the gate back on track, and Association Management Services dispatched a gate technician who confirmed there was no lasting damage.

Firefighters Soak up Fuel Spill

2010-07-01T17:15:00.003-05:00

San Antonio's Engine-49 was dispatched late Sunday morning to the Exxon at Bandera and Braun for a fuel spill. Firefighters applied an absorbent and cleared the scene after about 20 minutes. There were no injuries.

Fecal Scare Closes FSR Pool

2010-06-28T22:30:00.003-05:00

The pool was closed Monday afternoon upon discovery of feces in the water. This is at least the second time this season that the pool was closed under these circumstances.

Images of the classic Bill Murray gag in Caddyshack come to mind. But an article from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention details the serious health concern fecal contamination presents to public pools. Fortunately, boosting the chlorine content normally remedies the problem in a day or less -- no need to drain the pool and swab a la Murray's Carl Spackler.

Though the events leading to the contaminations are unknown as of this post, it's a good time to review a relevant rule from the FSR HOA's Swimming Rules & Guidelines. Paragraph 7.h. states:

Disposable diapers are not allowed. Commercial swim diapers may be used. Children in cloth diapers must wear rubber pants at all times when in the pool.

"Keep your shorts on" and have a safe swim!

Woman Fatally Shoots Man at Sagewood Home

2010-06-16T22:25:00.001-05:00

An argument culminated in a fatal shooting at a house on Knights Peak near Bandera and Guilbeau Rds, Tuesday evening.

According to press accounts, a man and woman were quarreling over money at their Sagewood neighborhood home. The woman, claiming self defense, obtained a pistol during the argument and shot the man twice. Police found the woman tending to the man's wounds to his chin and torso. He died at University Hospital early Wednesday morning.

According to the KSAT12, the woman was released after questioning. The district attorney's office is investigating whether she will be charged.

Arson Investigated in Guilbeau Park Fire

2010-06-10T07:00:00.003-05:00

San Antonio police requested the fire department at about 9:00 Sunday night stating an occupant was setting fires inside a house on the 9300 block of Caen near New Guilbeau Rd. Up to 23 firefighters and support personnel responded. According to a fire department report, the SAFD Arson Bureau is investigating "several areas of ignition."

Firefighters were on the call for about two hours. There were no injuries. As of early Monday, no arrests were made according to Fox29.

May 2010 Safety Committee Report

2010-06-05T17:05:00.006-05:00

Burglaries Reported on Atwell Park
On Saturday, 8 May, SAPD was dispatched to two vehicle burglaries at adjacent addresses on Atwell Park. According to a respondent on FSR's Facebook Group, one of the thefts included nothing but a $25 radio. Of course, the meager take doesn't diminish the victims' sense of violation.

In a possibly related case, another Atwell Park resident reported a burglary 9 May. Whether this was a third vehicle break-in or a residential burglary is unknown.

Pedestrian Gate Damaged in Crash
The stone work and pedestrian gate were damaged in a crash, 28 May.  Since the driver was unable to show police proof of insurance, Association Management Services pursues compensation by other means. A contractor will begin repairs soon. Operation of the vehicle exit gate was not impaired.

Cellular on Patrol Activity
An Atwell Park resident reported a planter was stolen overnight Monday, 3 May. The same family lost lawn ornaments last year. The COP endeavors to keep abreast of various incidents around FSR, great and small. Please help the COP, and your neighbors, by calling 207-SAPD when suspicious activity is observed.

On Friday and Saturday, 21 and 22 May, between 10:00 and 11:00 pm, COP volunteers observed teenagers loitering at park. On 22 May, SAPD made the scene to ensure they dispersed. Please note: The FSR park and pool areas close at 10:00 and the City of San Antonio maintains a curfew after 11:00 for kids under 17.

Patrols were conducted on two other nights during May. A few residents were notified of open garage doors in the night. Notify FSR's COP by the means listed below to alert volunteers to crime prevention concerns.

Blue Armor Patrol Summary
In addition to periodic crime prevention patrols of FSR, officers monitored traffic and enforced HOA covenants. Though no moving violations were observed, five citations were issued for illegal parking.

A security officer and SAPD made the scene of a minor accident on Ferris Branch, 2 May.  Another officer assisted SAPD regarding the teens at the park, 22 May.

SAPD Responses
Police responded to 14 calls for service in Finesilver Ranch during May; there were 14 calls during May last year too. The monthly average for 2009 was 12 calls.

Officers responded to three minor vehicle accidents; the 28 May gate crash, the 2 May crash mentioned by Blue Armor on Ferris Branch, and a third wreck reported by a resident on Brentridge, 18 May.

Police also took reports for the three burglaries on Atwell Park and, elsewhere in FSR, responded to two presumably false burglar alarms.

Another call was a suspicious vehicle on Boundbrook at about 10:30 pm, 11 May. And there was a "traffic related" incident at Braun and Finesilver, just before midnight, also 11 May.  This probably regards a traffic violation. More significantly, a DWI was investigated on Braun near Ryder on 25 May, at about 4:30 am.

Finally, police logged two disturbances and two miscellaneous cases in FSR.

In the Greenbriar neighborhood near Nichols ES, police responded to a disturbance and three miscellaneous calls.

Greenbriar, with about 1/4 the number of homes as Finesilver Ranch, is the closest gated community and presumably has similar demographics for crime reporting comparison.

Sex Offender Watch
As of this post, there are no registered sex offenders residing in FSR.

SAFD Responses
Fire and EMS crews responded to one medical emergency and two automatic fire alarms during May.

Receive Safety Committee Updates Throughout the Month
Subscribe to the FSR Safety Committee Blog and follow FSRsafety on Twitter for area safety and crime prevention news throughout the month.

Questions or concerns? Post a comment on the Blog, email FSRsafety@yahoogroups.com, or call Association Management Services (829-7202)

For more FSR news and views, join over 60 neighbors on the Finesilver Ranch Facebook Group.

Follow-up to "Car Wrecks Pedestrian Gate"

2010-05-29T19:15:00.002-05:00

San Antonio Police completed their initial report on Friday evening's crash into the pedestrian gate at the Finesilver Ranch exit. The driver, believed to be an FSR resident, stated his brakes malfunctioned.

SAPD impounded the SUV because the driver lacked proof of insurance. Association Management Services will follow the case to attempt recovery of repair costs.

Car Wrecks Pedestrian Gate

2010-05-28T19:20:00.000-05:00

A Ford Explorer crashed into the pedestrian gate while exiting FSR this evening at about 6:45. There were no apparent injuries. SAPD is investigating and Association Management Services is sending a technician to survey the damages. See a scene photo at Twitpic.

FSR, A Braun Rd Destination

2010-05-28T16:30:00.021-05:00

Braun Rd motorists may have noticed new signs identifying the Finesilver Ranch entrance a few hundred yards ahead of the intersection. Last year, SA Public Works refreshed lane striping on Braun Rd to follow state standards. Part of those improvements included new signs warning of the cross street at Finesilver Dr.

The latest signage was added thanks to the efforts of the HOA Board with funding approved by City Council District-7 Representative Rodriguez. It's a nice touch that helps visitors find Finesilver Dr and further marks the neighborhood's recessed entrance.

Thank you FSR Board of Directors and Councilman Rodriguez.

NW Loop 1604 Super Street Meeting Announced

2010-05-24T13:50:00.001-05:00

The Alamo Regional Mobility Authority will hold an open house Tuesday evening, 25 May to present information on the proposed Loop 1604 Super Street project. The meeting, at Northwest Park Baptist Church near New Guilbeau and Bowens Crossing, will include project exhibits and a short presentation. See the ARMA handbill for more information.

Smoke Detector Alerts Stonefield Resident

2010-05-20T22:00:00.001-05:00

San Antonio firefighters responded about noon Wednesday to a dryer on fire on the 9200 block of Shadystone in the Stonefield subdivision. According to an SAFD incident report, a smoke detector alerted a resident to a burning load of laundry resulting from a defective dryer. Except for the loss of the dryer and clothes, the flames merely scorched an adjacent wall before firefighters smothered it with an extinguisher; a great testament to the value of smoke detectors. There were no injuries.

Three engines and a ladder truck were on the scene for less than 30 minutes.

CPS Energy Debuts Power Outage Website

2010-05-16T19:00:00.004-05:00

Finesilver Ranch residents were spared power outages during the recent heavy weather, including a funnel cloud spotted over nearby Government Canyon Friday morning.

Interestingly, CPS Energy last month rolled out a website displaying an interactive map to check the extent of power outages across Bexar County.

According to CPS, the map provides outage information 24 hours a day, updated every 10 minutes. When known, the map may also provide an estimate for restoration of power in a specific area.

Of course, one hopes residents have an alternate source of power to reach the site should an outage impact FSR. An Internet enabled cell phone comes to mind, so ensure it's charged when threatening weather approaches.

Call CPS Energy at (210) 353-HELP to report outages; your landline should work even if household power is out.

April 2010 Safety Committee Report

2010-05-11T21:30:00.002-05:00

Loud Parties Shut Down

Residents on Twinpost and Bentwood View complained about large parties held on consecutive weekend nights during early April at a vacant house on Twinpost. Witnesses observed lewd behavior by possibly underage drinkers.

The Safety Committee contacted SAPD's community policing detail, SA Fear Free Environment (SAFFE), to resolve the problem. In short order, an officer informed the owner, presently residing elsewhere in San Antonio, of potential liability. The parties have abated since.

Damaged Slide Removed

A damaged slide at the FSR park was removed by a board member; the HOA awaits a replacement. Meanwhile, an observant resident noticed a safety hazard presented by the remaining slide stanchions. The posts have since been covered to prevent injury.

The safety-minded resident brought his concern to the committee via Facebook. See other means of contacting the committee at the end of this report. Residents, thank you in advance for your safety awareness, and thank you, board, for the personal interest in safety at the park in particular.

Traffic Safety

The pool is open; use caution on approach to the community center. While parents routinely advise children to "look both ways" before crossing, drivers must stop and look "four-ways" before entering the intersection of Finesilver and Cove Creek: Be mindful of the parking lot entrance and crosswalks approaching the pool.

Please be observant of all stop signs in FSR. Blue Armor Security recently stepped-up monitoring at this intersection to encourage and, as necessary, enforce traffic safety.

Cellular on Patrol
Finesilver Ranch volunteers conducted three late night patrols during April notifying residents of open garage doors at four or more addresses. No unusual activity was observed.

Blue Armor Patrol Summary
During springs past, there have been various acts of mischief and vandalism at the pool and park before and at the start of swim season. This year an extra officer is assigned to the area to discourage delinquency.

Security patrols monitored traffic safety in response to resident complaints and in preparation of the pool opening. No violations were observed during six traffic safety emphasis patrols during April.

Officers also responded to several parking complaints on Atwell Park and Sweetwood. Citations were issued as warranted.

An officer took a call for the loud party on Twinpost, 9 April. On arrival he did not observe any problems.

At about 3:30 am, 23 April, an officer noted a vehicle alarm sounding on Bentwood View. His attempts to contact the owner were unanswered. There were no signs of criminal activity.

SAPD Responses

Police responded to ten calls for service in Finesilver Ranch during April, compared to seven during April last year. The monthly average for 2009 was 12 calls.

SAPD responded to the loud party and disturbance on Twinpost, 9 April. A missing person report was filed elsewhere in FSR; no details are available. The remaining calls were burglar alarms, presumably false or mistaken.

In the Greenbriar neighborhood near Nichols ES, police were dispatched to a record ten calls in one month, tripling Greenbriar's usual 1 - 3 calls per month. The majority of dispatches were labeled "miscellaneous," all from one address on nearly consecutive days. Also reported: one vehicle burglary and a repeat residential burglary on Standwood, possibly a follow-up investigation. A theft report was taken elsewhere in that neighborhood.

Greenbriar, with about 1/4 the number of homes as Finesilver Ranch, is the closest gated community and presumably has similar demographics for crime reporting comparison.

Sex Offender Watch
No registered sex offenders reside in Finesilver Ranch as of this post.

SAFD Responses
SAFD/EMS made two medical calls to FSR during April.

Receive Neighborhood Updates Throughout the Month
Subscribe to the FSR Safety Committee Blog and follow FSRsafety on Twitter for area safety and crime prevention news throughout the month.

Questions or concerns? Post a comment on the Blog, email FSRsafety@yahoogroups.com, or call Association Management Services (829-7202)

For other FSR news and views, join over 60 neighbors on the Finesilver Ranch Facebook Group.

Man Dies in Shooting at his Woods End Home

2010-05-09T10:00:00.001-05:00

A man died Monday night in a shooting at his home on the 9300 block of Brevard in the Woods End subdivision near Bandera and Braun Roads. According to an Express News report citing police, the 21-year veteran of the San Antonio FD died of a gunshot wound to the head. Witnesses say it was an accident.

Police said the man retrieved a handgun during an argument and was running through the house. The pistol fired when the man's wife and a daughter struggled to take the gun from him.

The Bexar County Medical Examiner is investigating.

Property Crimes Continue at Area Apartments

2010-05-03T21:00:00.001-05:00

For the second consecutive month, residents of apartment complexes on Camino Villa near Bandera Rd reported vehicle burglaries, according to SAPD dispatch records.  One auto was reportedly stolen the same day, 27 April.

The crimes possibly occurred some time last Monday night through Tuesday morning. Bandera Crossing residents reported three vehicle break-ins and one stolen auto.  Another break-in was reported at the Silver Rock apartments the same night.

Finesilver Ranch residents should remain vigilant. The last vehicle burglaries in FSR occurred late December.  Don't be a victim: Park in the garage, or remove valuables if autos must remain outside.

Leave it; Lose it.

Pool Opens Saturday

2010-04-28T21:15:00.005-05:00

The pool opens with a party this Saturday at 12:00. Come out for pizza and have a safe swim!

March 2010 Committee Report

2010-04-10T18:31:00.006-05:00

Spate of Vandalism and Mischief Reported
Residents reported vandalism to their properties Thursday night 25 - 26 March. A vehicle was sprayed with a foreign substance on Ferris Creek and a crape myrtle was damaged the same night a few doors down. Also overnight, several curbside recycle bins were tipped at various places around the north side of FSR.

Blue Armor patrolled the neighborhood late Thursday night and early Friday morning. Nothing unusual was observed.  Security officers and FSR's own Cellular on Patrol volunteers were notified for subsequent patrol emphasis.

The exact day of occurrence of another vandalism case is unknown. But that same week, a Finesilver Dr speed limit sign was discovered on the ground. It has since been repaired.

Cellular on Patrol
Four patrols were conducted during March. A patrol late on the 5th noted the license plate of a suspicious vehicle at Chapelwood and Cove Creek for future reference.

Over various patrols, three garage doors were noted open late at night. Homeowners were contacted in two of these cases; attempts to contact the third failed.

Blue Armor Patrol Summary
Security officers noted the gates were open during the early mornings 7 and 8 March and again on 14 and 15 March. Each time, Association Management Services was notified to schedule repair.  Early on 25 March an officer secured the pedestrian gate which had swung open.

A 3:00 am patrol on 18 March prevented a tow truck operator from entering FSR. The driver desired access to make a repossession but was refused at the gate.

Blue Armor ran radar on Finesilver Dr from about 10:00 to 10:30 am 12 March. No violations were observed.

SAPD Responses
Police responded to nine Finesilver Ranch service calls during March, compared to seven during March last year. The monthly average for 2009 was 12 calls.

San Antonio Police were dispatched 26 March to take the vandalism report on Ferris Creek and a criminal mischief complaint on Canterview (probably related cases).

Reports of credit card abuse and lost property were also received during March. Finally, police responded to three alarm calls, a disturbance, and one labeled miscellaneous.

In the Greenbriar neighborhood near Nichols ES, police were dispatched to a disturbance and two burglar alarms.
Greenbriar, with about 1/4 the number of homes as Finesilver Ranch, is the closest gated community and presumably has similar demographics for crime reporting comparison.

Sex Offender Watch
No registered sex offenders reside in Finesilver Ranch as of this post.

SAFD Responses
SAFD/EMS made one medical call to an FSR residence.

Receive Neighborhood Updates Throughout the Month
Subscribe to the FSR Safety Committee Blog and follow on Twitter for area safety and crime prevention news throughout the month. Questions or concerns? Email us: FSRsafety@yahoogroups.com or call Association Management Services (829-7202)

For neighborhood general interests and fun, join 60 of your neighbors on the Finesilver Ranch Facebook Group.

Burglars Stike Area Apartments

2010-04-04T07:00:00.002-05:00

Ten vehicles were burglarized at three apartment complexes near Bandera and Camino Bandera Rds. last month, according to police dispatch records.

Most of the break-ins (five) occurred at the Silver Rock apartments during Monday night or early Tuesday morning 22-23 March. Another two burglaries were reported that same night at the Verde Braun Station apartments just south on Bandera Rd. The remaining three incidents were reported 12 and 15 March, adding the Bandera Crossing apartments in one case.

The Camino Bandera area was last hit during December and October. Finesilver Ranch is not immune. Park in garages, or, if this is not possible, remove valuables from vehicles or hide them from sight.

Leave it; Lose it.

Bio-Diesel and a Nap, Bad Mix for Braun West Resident

2010-03-30T19:55:00.002-05:00

A homeowner on the 9300 block of Wickersham in Braun Station West awakened to an explosion and fire in his backyard storage shed Saturday morning, 27 March. According to an SAFD report, the man was processing bio-diesel by heating a vegetable oil concoction in a sealed container. Having fallen asleep, the container eventually exploded resulting in damage to the shed and its contents.

A district chief responded with three engines, two of which expended their supplies of a special agent to abate the consequent vegetable oil spill. They were on the scene for about an hour. No injuries were reported.

Auto on Ferris Creek Vandalized, Bins Tipped

2010-03-27T07:00:00.003-05:00

A vehicle on Ferris Creek was vandalized overnight Thursday, 25 - 26 March. The victim reported foreign material was thrown on and sprayed inside his jeep. A message written on the vehicle indicates the victim was mistakenly targeted.

Also that night, at least three recycle bins were tipped over, one on Finesilver near Willow Heights and two on Cove Creek.

Blue Armor and FSR's volunteer Cellular on Patrol were notified for patrol emphasis.

Electrical Problem Ignites Fire at "The Crest"

2010-03-12T17:45:00.002-06:00

The San Antonio Fire Dept. dispatched an engine yesterday morning to a home in The Crest neighborhood on Breanna Oaks near Braun and Tezel Rds. Firefighters found a sofa, chair, and other items on fire, accidentally sparked by an arcing wire or appliance. Property and contents losses were estimated at $2300. There were no injuries.

February 2010 Committee Report

2010-03-09T16:25:00.001-06:00

Residents Team with SAPD to ID Hit & Run Driver
HOA Board and Safety Committee members worked with an SAPD community policing officer and a traffic investigation detective to identify the driver who crashed into the gate 13 January. Police contacted the teen driver's mother at a Braun Station residence to confirm the identity of the person behind the wheel. Auto insurance information was obtained. The matter was referred to FSR's insurer for resolution.

Stop Sign, Lighting Damaged
On 2 February an unknown vehicle knocked over the stop sign at Braun and Finesilver and damaged the lighting fixtures facing the "Finesilver Ranch" stonework. A city crew re-posted the sign within hours, and an Association Management Services contractor replaced the lighting shortly thereafter.

Camera Upgrades Offered
The HOA Board recently considered bids from two surveillance camera vendors to improve gate video. Initial bids were turned down due to the high cost of the camera type specified in FSR's request for proposal. FSR Safety's camera "experts" are considering a wider range of options and will readdress the board later this year.

FSR Safety Registers for National Night Out
The National Association of Town Watch opened registration for National Night Out 2010. The worldwide event will take place 3 August. Texas neighborhoods will participate Tuesday, 5 October.

National Night Out heightens crime prevention awareness, generates support for anti-crime programs, strengthens community spirit, and encourages police-community relationships.

Last year 36 million people attended an NNO event with San Antonio ranking second worldwide for participation and program quality. Minneapolis ranked first; Houston, Austin, and Arlington also made the top 10.

Cellular on Patrol
Two patrols were conducted during February. Five garage doors were noted open late at night. Homeowners were contacted in three of these cases.

On 19 February at about 11:20 pm, COP members reminded three teens of the city's 11:00 pm curfew for youths under 17 YOA.

Blue Armor Patrol Summary
Security officers also reported an open garage door, and the community center service window was found unsecured.

SAPD Responses
Police responded to nine Finesilver Ranch service calls during February, compared to 11 during February last year. The monthly average for 2009 was 12 calls. This is down from the previous two years' averages of 14 (2008) and 15 (2007).

There was a minor accident at Braun and Finesilver, Tuesday evening, 23 February. Police also responded to three burglar alarms, took three harassment reports, one report of threats, and were dispatched to one miscellaneous call.

A burglary of a residence was reported in the Greenbriar neighborhood near Nichols ES. Police also responded to three burglar alarms and took one miscellaneous report.

Greenbriar, with about 1/4 the number of homes as Finesilver Ranch, is the closest gated community and presumably has similar demographics for crime reporting comparison.

Sex Offender Watch
No registered sex offenders reside in Finesilver Ranch as of this post.

SAFD Responses
SAFD/EMS made one medical call to an FSR residence.

Follow FSR Safety on Twitter
During February, FSRsafety issued 11 "tweets" on public safety interests occurring in and immediately surrounding Finesilver Ranch.

Join Twitter and follow FSRsafety to receive time sensitive announcements of neighborhood safety and crime prevention concerns online and via text message.

Subscribe to the FSR Safety Committee Blog and follow on Twitter for updates throughout the month. Contact the committee via email: FSRsafety@yahoogroups.com. Call Association Management Services (829-7202) for more contact options.

Greenbriar Home Burglarized

2010-03-06T07:00:00.002-06:00

According to a recently released SAPD report, a home on Standwood in the Greenbriar neighborhood was burglarized Tuesday, 2 February between 9:00 am and about 12:30 pm. The rear door frame of the house was damaged, indicating the method of entry. Guns, jewelry, and cash were among the items stolen.

A check of Google Maps shows the house abuts a wooded area just north of Braun Rd. The residence may have been specifically targeted due to the off-road access to the gated community, while also offering the burglars concealment from the trees.

The case highlights an inherent vulnerability to the Finesilver Ranch properties along Braun Rd, especially those near wooded areas. Keep a wary eye out for vehicles parked along Braun. They may innocently belong to utility workers, as has been the case in the past, but the apparent M.O. of the Greenbriar burglar(s) may be repeated against FSR residents.

Call 207-SAPD when suspicious activity is observed or 911 if you believe a crime is in progress.

Trash Fire Extinguished Near Bandera Rd Carwash

2010-03-03T22:40:00.001-06:00

Firefighters knocked down a trash fire on a vacant lot near the Shade Tree Car Wash on Bandera Rd yesterday afternoon. Two units responded. There was no property loss.

"Super Street" Coming to NW Loop 1604

2010-02-23T22:45:00.000-06:00

The Bexar County Commissioners Court today approved funding for a "super street" at Loop 1604 from Shaenfield to New Guilbeau Rds.

When completed next year, crossing traffic will no longer be allowed at the intersections. Instead, drivers entering 1604 will make right turns only. If a left turn is desired, drivers will use new "turn-around" lanes to be added near the intersections.

Plans also call for widening Braun Rd at 1604, which should be completed this summer, and a longer term project for the Hwy 151 and Loop 1604 intersection. See details here.

Contractor to Demo Proposed Camera Ugprade

2010-02-11T22:45:00.000-06:00

Blue Armor Security representatives will test a proposed upgraded camera set-up at the gates Friday, 12 February. This will involve positioning a temporary camera at different locations for a few hours as they collect test data for demonstration purposes.

An upgrade is desired for better nighttime monitoring and to improve image resolution at higher speeds, day and night. Please use caution as you come and go.

January 2010 Safety Committee Report

2010-02-08T22:50:00.003-06:00

Auto Break-ins Continue into 2010
For the second time in eight days, FSR residents' vehicles were burglarized, this time overnight 4-5 January according to police reports. At least four burglaries occurred on Branwood, Canterview, Ferris Creek, and Sweetwood. A GPS was stolen from one vehicle, and a gym bag with workout clothes was taken from another. As of this post, details concerning the other two vehicles are not available.

Cellular on Patrol volunteers and FSR Block Captains distributed flyers warning neighbors of their vulnerability to vehicle burglaries, and Blue Armor Security was advised of the apparent increasing threat. Leave it, lose it.

Gate Bends to Another Hit & Run
Cameras captured a hit & run crash into the exit gate Wednesday afternoon, 13 January.  Association Management Services contacted police to share the recording. The HOA awaits assignment of a police investigator to pursue compensation.

Cellular on Patrol
The FSR COP conducted four patrols during January. At least one open garage door was noted on three different late night patrols, and an exit gate malfunction was reported to the association manager.

Current COP members are encouraged to attend the refresher training class to be held at SAPD's Prue Rd Substation near Fredericksburg Rd, Thursday, 18 February, 6:00 to 10:00 pm.

For residents interested in joining FSR's COP, see the flyer distributed door-to-door last month for contact information.

Blue Armor Patrol Summary
Security officers continued to emphasize early morning coverage in an effort to deter vehicle burglaries.

On 1 January just before midnight, a security officer dispersed five teens from the community center parking lot.  Unless there is a private party, the park is closed at 10:00 pm. Further, the city has imposed an 11:00 pm curfew for children under 17 years.

Around midnight 3 January, Blue Armor noted a helicopter overhead and two SAPD police vehicles patrolling the neighborhood. This activity coincided with a shooting which occurred near Tezel and Mainland.

Security officers informed AMS of exit gate malfunctions on 13, 21, 27, and 29 January.

SAPD Responses
Police responded to 17 Finesilver Ranch service calls during January, compared to 10 during January last year. The monthly average for 2009 was 12 calls. This is down from the previous two years' averages of 14 (2008) and 15 (2007).

January 2010 police responses were for the four vehicle burglaries, eight burglar alarms, and a forgery case. Police also responded to a disturbance on Atwell Park, 17 January, possibly associated with late night skateboarders who toppled garbage cans.

A minor car wreck was reported on Bentwood View, 31 January, but it is unclear whether the accident actually took place in Finesilver Ranch.

Police also took two "miscellaneous" reports.

For the Greenbriar neighborhood near Nichols ES, police responded to a sole burglar alarm

Greenbriar, with about 1/4 the number of homes as Finesilver Ranch, is the closest gated community and presumably has similar demographics for crime reporting comparison.

Sex Offender Watch
No registered sex offenders reside in Finesilver Ranch as of this post.

SAFD Responses
There were no fire or EMS responses to Finesilver Ranch this period.

Follow FSRsafety on Twitter
Join Twitter and follow FSRsafety to receive time sensitive announcements of neighborhood safety and crime prevention concerns online and via text message.

During January, FSRsafety issued 12 "tweets" on public safety interests occurring in and immediately surrounding Finesilver Ranch.

Subscribe to the FSR Safety Committee Blog and follow on Twitter for updates throughout the month. Contact the committee via email: FSRsafety@yahoogroups.com. Call Association Management Services (829-7202) for more contact options.

SAFD Extinguishes Burning Deck in Braun Farm

2010-01-20T21:25:00.001-06:00

Eighteen firefighters and support personnel responded Saturday evening, 16 January, to a barbecue fire on the 9700 block of Quiet Lake in the Braun Farm subdivision. According to an SAFD report, the cook attempted to start the grill with gasoline when the can ignited and fell to the wood deck. Residents contained the fire with a carpet until fighfighters arrived. There was minimal damage to the deck and no injuries were reported.

Domestic Dispute Turns into Police Standoff

2010-01-19T20:55:00.003-06:00

A man who had just been released from a veteran's hospital held police at bay for about two hours last night at the Silver Rock Apartments on Camino Villa near Bandera Rd. The man's estranged wife called police at about 8:00 after he entered the woman's home in violation of a restraining order, according to press reports. The woman left the residence unharmed, but it took a SWAT team and non-lethal bean bag pellets to subdue the man.

During the standoff the man threw a variety of objects at officers including a failed Molotov cocktail. He was charged with assault on a police officer, burglary, and violation of a protective order. See details at KSAT12 and News4.

December 2009 Safety Committee Report

2010-01-15T17:00:00.004-06:00

A Night of Vehicle Burglaries and Suspicious Activity
At least three Finesilver Ranch families were victims of vehicle break-ins overnight 27 – 28 December. Apparently the four vehicles involved were unlocked allowing the burglars to enter and rummage for valuables. Anecdotal reports indicate nothing was taken. There are no official police reports of these incidents.

The same night, at about 1:00 am, Blue Armor Security observed four suspicious males on foot near the park. They later entered a green Honda and drove away to avoid the patrolman. The officer followed the Honda out the gate and obtained a license plate number.

Unfortunately, police have nothing to investigate since none of the burglary victims filed a report. The neighborhood Cellular on Patrol and Blue Armor Security were informed of the activity.

Incidentally, the Safety Committee learned of another two vehicle burglaries on Sweetwod and Briarwood occurring the night of 4 – 5 January. In these cases windows were broken and personal property of marginal value was taken. At least one of the victims filed a police report.

Man Possibly Poses as Peace Officer
Other suspicious activity included reports of an unfamiliar security vehicle patrolling FSR streets on 8 December. This coincided with a complaint of a uniformed man who, while possibly posing as a police officer, confronted teenagers at the park. A witness observed a dark blue sedan with a red stripe parked at the community center at the time.

It is not conclusively known whether the man was a legitimate officer or not. However, the incidents may be related to the arrest elsewhere in San Antonio of a former security company employee accused of harassment and other police impersonation incidents.

Blue Armor is the contracted security service for Finesilver Ranch. Their vehicles are white with blue lettering and red stripes. Officers wear a dark blue or black uniform. If you observe any other security company in Finsesilver Ranch, call Association Management Services, 829-7202.

Cellular on Patrol
Members of Finesilver Ranch’s COP met 8 December to plan 2010 activities. There are currently about 20 active members who watch for suspicious activity and promote crime prevention on a daily basis. They also performed weekly scheduled patrols last year. Late night patrols are scheduled for the coming year as well.

If interested in joining COP, see the flyer recently distributed door-to-door.

Blue Armor Patrol Summary
Security officers emphasized early morning coverage in an effort to deter vehicle burglaries. In one case, 31 December at about 1:40 am, an officer observed a pick-up truck racing to the gate in an effort to tailgate another through the entrance. Noticing the patrolman, the truck driver backed down the entry and departed west. The Blue Armor officer copied the license plate and followed the vehicle to Loop 1604.

On 22 December, while patrolling the park on foot at about 1:00 am, an officer observed three males and one female run from the woods adjacent to the pool into a white Nissan parked at the community center. The officer caught up to the vehicle as it exited FSR; a license plate number was obtained.

Also, Blue Armor received the report of the 8 December possible impersonation case, and on the 26th, directed three solicitors off the property.

SAPD Responses
Police responded to 15 service calls in Finesilver Ranch during December, compared to 11 during December last year. The monthly average for 2008 was 14 calls.

A home on Edgecreek was reportedly burglarized. No further information is available as of this post.
A minor accident was reported around 1:00 am, 5 December on Sweetwood. It is not clear whether the crash actually occurred in Finesilver Ranch.
A suspicious vehicle was reported Saturday, 12 December on Andover Creek at about 4:30 pm.
There were two theft reports. At least one of these occurred at a location away from FSR.

Police also made two burglar alarms, responded to three disturbances, and took five "miscellaneous" reports.

There were two police responses to the Greenbriar neighborhood near Nichols ES, both of them burglar alarms.

Greenbriar, with about 1/4 the number of homes as Finesilver Ranch, is the closest gated community and presumably has similar demographics for crime reporting comparison.

Sex Offender Watch
No registered sex offenders reside in Finesilver Ranch as of this post.

SAFD Responses
San Antonio Fire and EMS responded to a record five emergency calls in Finesilver Ranch during December. There were two medical calls and two automatic residential alarms. Firefighters also ventillated a kitchen due to a "brisket flame up," according to an incident report.

Follow FSRsafety on Twitter
Join Twitter and follow FSRsafety to receive time sensitive announcements of neighborhood safety and crime prevention concerns online and via text message.

During December, FSRsafety issued 22 "tweets" on public safety interests occurring in and immediately surrounding Finesilver Ranch.

Subscribe to the FSR Safety Committee Blog and follow on Twitter for updates throughout the month. Contact the committee via email: FSRsafety@yahoogroups.com. Call Association Management Services (829-7202) for more contact information.

Spill at Exxon Elicits SAFD Response

2010-01-14T20:00:00.002-06:00

The San Antonio Fire Department dispatched three units and nine firefighters to contain a "flammable liquid spill" at the Exxon gas station, Bandera and Braun Rds, at about 6:30 last night. Firefighters were at the scene for a couple of hours. According to an SAFD website there were no injuries, no property loss.

Gate Video Records Hit and Run

2010-01-13T22:00:00.001-06:00

The gate cameras recorded a maroon suburban that ran into the exit gate today. The vehicle drove off with damage to the front fender, driver's side. A license plate number was retrieved for further investigation.

Association Management Services dispatched the gate company for repairs, which were already underway late this afternoon.

Vehicle Burglars Target Camino Bandera

2010-01-11T21:51:00.002-06:00

Some Finesilver Ranch residents are not alone in dealing with a recent spate of vehicle burglaries. A review of police calls for the month of December revealed at least seven vehicles were burglarized within the Camino Bandera neighborhood east of Finesilver Ranch. All of the break-ins were reported 16 and 17 December and were located within a few blocks of the Camino Villa and Camino Bandera intersection.

The same area was struck during October, though in those cases the vehicles were parked at nearby apartments.

Finesilver Ranch residents were victimized 27 - 28 December and
4 - 5 January.

San Antonio Police warn against leaving valuables in vehicles: Leave it, Lose it.

COP, Block Captains to Distribute Crime Prevention Flyers

2010-01-09T18:00:00.001-06:00

Be on the lookout for a flyer on your door highlighting vehicle burglary prevention tips. Information on Finesilver Ranch's Cellular on Patrol, an official San Antonio Police neighborhood watch program, is also included. Thank you block captains for the assist!

Helo Overhead Last Night, Possibly Related to Shooting Near Mainland

2010-01-04T20:15:00.002-06:00

A San Antonio Police helicopter was observed over Finesilver Ranch around midnight last night. The activity may have been related to a possible gang related shooting which, according to multiple news outlets (Express News, WOAI, KABB), occurred around 11:30 Sunday night near Mainland Rd.

A teen was shot outside a house on the 7800 block of Mainland Woods in the Village in the Woods subdivision. He is recovering at University Hospital. Police said the boy claimed he was shot while in his vehicle near Tezel and Guilbeau Rds, though there was no evidence to support this. The search continues for two shooters, one of them known to the victim.

Vehicles Burglarized in FSR, Coincides with Suspicious Activity

2009-12-31T13:05:00.002-06:00

Finesilver Ranch residents on Atwell Park, Edgecreek, and Sweetwood reported four vehicles were burglarized overnight 27 - 28 December. There have been no reports of property loss or damage, and as yet, San Antonio Police have no record of the incidents. Based on third party information, the only available as of this post, it appears none of the vehicles were locked and the burglars found nothing of value.

Possibly related, a Blue Armor Security officer reported four males walking from the park towards Cove Creek at about 1:00 am the same night. Upon entering their green Honda, they avoided the officer, driving toward Chapelwood. The officer caught up to the Honda as it exited the gate. He obtained the license plate number.

Residents who suspect their vehicle was entered illegally are urged to file a complaint with SAPD. Victims of such crimes, burglaries -- whether property was taken or not, may file online or call 207-7273. San Antonio Police say they cannot pursue a lead without a formal report.

After receiving a case number, please notify Association Management Services (829-7202), or comment below to ensure coordination with Blue Armor, the FSR Safety Committee, and SAPD.

Firefighters Respond to Spill at Exxon

2009-12-22T19:48:00.000-06:00

San Antonio firefighters responded to a "flammable liquid spill" at the Exxon gas station, Bandera and Braun Rds, at about 7:15 this morning. According to an SAFD website, one unit manned by four personnel responded. There were no reports of injuries or property loss.

November 2009 Safety Committee Report

2009-12-17T22:40:00.001-06:00

Graffiti Removed

A Safety Committee member noticed a graffiti tag on the park basketball goal post. The city provided a can of spray paint specifically for the job. Thank you, Patty, for taking time to cover the marking.

Residents may dial 311 to report grafitti on city public property; call Association Management Services, 829-7202, to report tags on FSR common areas. Deter future tagging and continue to keep the neighborhood free of this blight.

Braun Road Improvements
The intersection of Braun and Finesilver may prove a little safer since the city added a stop stripe at the Finesilver Ranch exit. Braun Rd improvements also include fresh center striping and signs alerting drivers to the Finesilver Dr intersection.

Cellular on Patrol
San Antonio PD's next Cellular on Patrol training sessions are Thursdays, 7 and 14 January, 6:00 - 10:00 pm at the Prue Substation. Attendance both nights is required for certification. A refresher course is scheduled for one four hour session, 18 February.

The FSR COP welcomes additional volunteers to maintain a strong neighborhood watch program. Call Association Management Services, 829-7202, for more information on joining the team.

Blue Armor Patrol Summary
On Friday evening, 13 November, a security patrol responded to a resident's report of a suspicious vehicle at the gate. The officer searched the neighborhood but was unable to locate the vehicle or suspicious activity.

The community center men's room was found unlocked on 30 November. The officer determined there was no vandalism and secured the door.

SAPD Responses
Police responded to eight calls for service to Finesilver Ranch during November, compared to 12 calls during November last year. The monthly average for 2008 was 14 calls.

A theft of Nintendo equipment valued at $340 was reported on Atwell Park, and lost property was reported on Edgecreek. There was also a telephone harassment complaint and two miscellaneous reports.

A minor accident report was taken on Sweetwood, but it is not known if this is the actual location of the incident. Finally, police responded to two burglar alarms, believed to be false.

There were no November police responses to the Greenbriar neighborhood near Nichols ES.

Greenbriar, with about 1/4 the number of homes as Finesilver Ranch, is the closest gated community and presumably has similar demographics for crime reporting comparison.

Sex Offender Watch
No registered sex offenders reside in Finesilver Ranch as of this post.

SAFD Responses
There were no fire or EMS responses to FSR during November.

Follow FSRsafety on Twitter
Join Twitter and follow FSRsafety to receive time sensitive announcements of neighborhood safety and crime prevention concerns online and via text message.

During November, FSRsafety issued 12 "tweets" on public safety interests occurring in and immediately surrounding Finesilver Ranch.

Subscribe to the FSR Safety Committee Blog and follow on Twitter for updates throughout the month.

Commercial Operator to Pay for Damaged Pillar

2009-12-15T21:50:00.004-06:00

The business whose vehicle struck the entry gate pillar will pay for the repair, acccording to Association Management Services. A resident witnessed the 8 December incident and provided to AMS a phone number displayed on the vehicle.

The pillar was also struck 8 November, 30 September, and
16 June. The HOA Board is considering entry improvements.

Update: Man Possibly Poses as Police Officer

2009-12-13T11:15:00.002-06:00

San Antonio police arrested a man who used a security company uniform to pose as a police officer, news outlets reported Friday and Saturday. Police caught the man after a woman on the city's north side filed a harassment report with SAPD. A second man is wanted.

KSAT12 video shows the suspect in a uniform bearing a "DCS Security Services" patch. DCS is a San Antonio company located on Nacogdoches near Wurzbach Parkway. According to FOX29, the suspect was not a DCS employee at the time of the impersonation.

It is unknown whether either of these men were involved in the Finesilver Ranch incident. But the Express News notes the woman filed the complaint last month, and police believe the two were involved in other impersonations.

Call SAPD (207-7273) if you believe you were a victim of a police imposter.

Man Possibly Posing as Peace Officer at FSR Community Center

2009-12-12T07:35:00.001-06:00

A Finesilver Ranch resident reported his teen aged grandson and the boy's three friends were confronted by a man who identified himself as a police officer at the FSR Community Center, 8 December at about 5:30 pm. According to a report taken by Blue Armor, FSR's contracted security service, the boys told the grandparent the officer "stopped and frisked" them for drugs.

The grandparent called the SAPD Prue Substation to determine whether an officer had reported making contact with juveniles in the neighborhood. However, the response was inconclusive due to the number of officers whose units work city-wide out of substations other than Prue.

During the same patrol period, the Blue Armor officer was notified by another resident of an unnamed security company observed patrolling the neighborhood earlier that day. The resident wondered if the HOA had switched to a new company: FSR has not.

Yet another resident saw earlier this week a dark blue sedan sporting a red stripe parked at the community center. These markings do not match Blue Armor's white with red stripes and blue lettering. On this occasion, the resident noted an apparent security officer talking with teen aged boys. The timeline of this event has yet to be correlated with the 8 December incidents.

Blue Armor and FSR Safety are attempting to confirm whether SAPD has a record of any officer contacting children at Finesilver Ranch on 8 December. This may include a check of other area law enforcement agencies as well. Further, the committee is attempting to determine a description of the "officer" and is seeking further information on the unauthorized security patrols observed in the neighborhood.

See the Blue Armor website, the official security company of Finesilver Ranch, for patrol vehicle markings and officer uniform style. Call Association Management Services, 829-7202, if any other security presence is noted in FSR. Call 911 to report any suspicious activity observed in progress, or having just occurred.

Crash Near Guilbeau and Tezel Kills Teenager

2009-12-05T08:55:00.001-06:00

A teen driving at high speed Thursday afternoon on Guilbeau lost control of his Crown Victoria and crashed into the backyard fence of a home on Rugged Ridge, according to an Express News report. Police say he died at the scene. No others were injured.

Cellular on Patrol Meeting, Tuesday, 8 Dec; Residents Welcome

2009-12-02T21:20:00.001-06:00

Cellular on Patrol (COP) and Safety Committee members will meet at the FSR Community Center, Tuesday, 8 December at 7:00 pm to discuss plans for 2010. Anybody interested in neighborhood safety and crime prevention is invited.

The COP is always seeking additional volunteers. Learn more about COP Tuesday night.

SAPD Offers Shopping Safety Tips

2009-11-28T17:00:00.002-06:00

News4 recently broadcast a segment on shopping safety during the Christmas rush. An SAPD official recommends:

Guard against carelessness, it's easy to become distracted while power shopping
Don't leave items in plain view, cover with a jacket or blanket
Park in well-lit areas, and, if possible, near the store front
Don't carry large amounts of cash

FSR Safety adds: Don't store recent purchases in your car. Bring them inside the house right away to avoid a vehicle burglary.

To all shoppers: Good hunting!

Area Apartment Dwellers Report Vehicle Burglaries

2009-11-17T19:10:00.003-06:00

Eleven vehicle burglaries were reported at the Silver Rock and Bandera Crossing apartments near Bandera Rd and Camino Villa between 2 and 16 October, according to SAPD call logs. Five break-ins were reported at Bandera Crossing on Friday, 2 October alone, and another three were noted at Silver Rock, Monday, 5 October. Though gated access is featured at both complexes, burglars were not deterred.

Residents of gated communities like Finesilver Ranch are not immune to vehicle burglaries either. Thieves last struck the neighborhood June 2009 when at least six autos were broken into. These crimes are pervasive in San Antonio and, based on historical patterns, burglars will likely return to FSR during the months ahead.

The best way to prevent a vehicle burglary is to park in a secured garage. When this is not practical, remove valuables, or, if these must remain in the vehicle, hide them from view.

Incidentally, our own Cellular on Patrol volunteers notice many dark spots in the neighborhood. Residents are urged to keep their porch and coach lights on. Though lighting has not deterred criminals in all FSR cases, a well-lit area will aid witnesses to crimes in progress, assist first responders regardless of the nature of an emergency, and offer a sense of well-being in the dark of night.

Leave it; Lose it.

October 2009 Safety Committee Report

2009-11-11T13:35:00.005-06:00

National Night Out a Popular Success

Thanks to the combined efforts of Safety, Welcome, and Social Committee members, NNO 2009 held October 6 was well-attended. San Antonio FD rolled an engine to many of the 11 block parties and Blue Armor Security cruised the neighborhood for much of the evening. FSR Cellular on Patrol made a pitch for more volunteers, though there were no new additions to the team.

It was a great night to make a point about looking out for each other in a stand against crime. Thank you to all FSR residents who came out, especially the host families who opened their driveways and sidewalks to their neighbors.

Use Caution Entering/ Exiting FSR

An engaging topic during NNO was the number of crashes at the neighborhood entrance. Whether dodging a wreck at the intersection of Braun and Finesilver or testing patience at the gates, entering and exiting the neighborhood requires full attention behind the wheel.

Previous research informs it is unlikely a signal will be installed at the intersection. As for the gates and stone column...Watch out! There are gates and a stone column in the middle of the road.

Halloween Passes; No Mischief Reported

Cellular on Patrol members stood the gate to welcome visiting trick-or-treaters and Blue Armor patrolled FSR shortly before and after the official treating hours. There was nothing significant to report.

Cellular on Patrol

Mike Snedeker concluded his tenure as lead for FSR's COP team. Many thanks to Mike for forming the team of 18 "regulars" and scheduling training and patrols. Residents, especially current COP members, are invited to lead the team. Call Association Management Services (829-7202) for contact information.

The next Cellular on Patrol class will be at SAPD's Prue Rd Substation, 12 and 19 November. Any San Antonio resident may register directly or through the Safety Committee. Please call AMS if you are interested in joining FSR's COP.

Blue Armor Patrol Summary

On Tuesday, 6 October Blue Armor received complaints of a blue Ford Eclipse speeding and running stop signs. The officer was unable to locate the vehicle.

On Wednesday, 7 October at about 6:00 pm, a security officer came upon two Hispanic males, aged approximately 15-17, smoking pot on a park bench. The teens ran into the woods before the officer could make contact.

Blue Armor also ticketed a suspected abandoned vehicle on Bakerswood, 8 and 9 October.

SAPD Responses

Police responded to 17 calls for service to Finesilver Ranch during October, compared to 14 calls during October last year. The monthly average for 2008 was 14 responses.

There were six burglar alarms, four disturbances (two at the same location, 11 October) and five miscellaneous reports, including a case of credit card abuse. An unspecified report of threats was also taken. Finally, police made the aforementioned vehicle accident at Braun and Finesilver, 11 October.

The Greenbriar neighborhood near Nichols ES recorded a single burglar alarm.

Greenbriar, with about 1/4 the number of homes of Finesilver Ranch is the closest gated community and, presumably, has similar demographics for crime reporting comparison purposes.

Sex Offender Watch

No registered sex offenders live in Finesilver Ranch as of this post.

SAFD Responses

San Antonio Fire and EMS responded to two medical calls in FSR during October.

Follow FSRsafety on Twitter

Join Twitter and follow FSRsafety to receive time sensitive announcements of neighborhood safety and crime prevention concerns online and via text message.

During October, FSRsafety issued 11 "tweets" on public safety interests occurring in and immediately surrounding Finesilver Ranch.

Subscribe to the FSR Safety Committee Blog and follow on Twitter for updates throughout the month.

COP to Encourage Safety Halloween Night

2009-10-28T07:00:00.001-05:00

Cellular on Patrol volunteers will man the gate and patrol Finesilver streets Halloween night to promote safety and discourage overzealous pranksters. Members will monitor the gate Saturday evening from 6:30 to 8:30 to ensure free traffic flow and to welcome visitors.

Finesilver Ranch will observe trick-or-treating during this same period. Residents are encouraged to signal their interest in participating with a lit porch light or other invitation following the "spirit" of the night.

Consumer Reports offers these safety tips. Happy Halloween!

Pedestrian Killed at Cabo Grille on Guilbeau

2009-10-20T19:45:00.003-05:00

A man standing in the parking lot of the Cabo Grille near Guilbeau and Bandera Roads was killed by a hit and run driver early Sunday morning, 18 October.

According to the Express News, the driver of a red Suburban was exiting the parking lot "quickly" following an argument with others when he struck the victim and his brother. The brother did not require medical attention.

September 2009 Safety Committee Report

2009-10-13T22:25:00.004-05:00

Driver Damages Edgecreek Property
On 3 September, a homeowner on Edgecreek reported a vehicle had left the road and "bumped" into his house. Photos revealed extensive damage to the lawn and shrubbery.

SAPD took a report. The driver returned to the scene several hours later to offer restitution.

Gate Pillar Struck
On 30 September a lawn service contractor struck the stone pillar separating the entry gates. Gate video recorded the hit & run. Association Management Services contacted the owner who is debating compensation.

According to Safety Committee records, the gate was struck seven times over the past two years, including the latest incident 11 October. On three occasions the stone pillar was damaged.

Some residents wonder if a new traffic pattern or gate operation is needed; the FSR HOA Board is investigating the need/cost/benefit.

Cellular on Patrol
Volunteers conducted routine patrols on a weekly basis. There was nothing significant to report.

Mike Snedeker will conclude his tenure as lead for FSR's COP team next month. Many thanks to Mike for forming the team of 18 "regulars" and scheduling training and patrols.

Residents, especially current COP members, are invited to lead the team. Call Association Management Services (829-7202) for contact information.

The next Cellular on Patrol class will be at SAPD's Prue Rd Substation, 12 and 19 November. Any San Antonio resident may register directly or through the Safety Committee. Please call AMS if you are interested in joining FSR's COP.

Blue Armor Patrol Summary
A security officer warned a pizza delivery driver for speeding on Sweetwood, 24 September.

On 29 September, an officer discovered the community center men's bathroom door unlocked. There was no sign of vandalism.

SAPD Responses
Police responded to 10 calls for service to Finesilver Ranch during September, compared to 11 calls during September last year. The monthly average for 2008 was 14 responses.

The relatively light call load included five alarms, an unspecified criminal mischief, a disturbance at Braun and Finesilver, and three miscellaneous reports. Two of the miscellaneous calls were related to the aforementioned Edgecreek incident.

The Greenbriar neighborhood near Nichols ES recorded a theft and one miscellaneous call.

Greenbriar, with about 1/4 the number of homes of Finesilver Ranch is the closest gated community and, presumably, has similar demographics for crime reporting comparison purposes.

Sex Offender Watch
No registered sex offenders live in Finesilver Ranch as of this post.

SAFD Responses
San Antonio Fire and EMS responded to one medical call in FSR during August. For September, there was a medical response and a 911 hang-up call.

Follow FSRsafety on Twitter
Join Twitter and follow FSRsafety to receive time sensitive announcements of neighborhood safety and crime prevention concerns online and via text message.

This month, FSRsafety issued 11 "tweets" on public safety interests occurring in and immediately surrounding Finesilver Ranch.

Subscribe to the FSR Safety Committee Blog and follow on Twitter for updates throughout the month.

Slick Road Contributes to Gate Crash

2009-10-12T21:40:00.001-05:00

The driver of a Toyota Corolla informed Association Management Services today that he struck the gate after 7:00 last night, 11 October. The car hydroplaned on the rain-slick street, and he was unable to stop.

The man initiated a claim with his insurance company; AMS will monitor progress toward payment.

A gate technician continued repair work today. A completion date is unknown.