City manager developments, protest of TX death penalty, South TX archeologist seeking volunteers

Now that's bold: After two City Manager snafus - the firing of Terry Brechtel and the near-hiring of Sheryl Sculley - District 1 Councilman Roger Flores is asking his colleagues to consider giving the nod to Interim City Manager Rolando Bono.

Bono has served in that capacity since last October. In Bono's 28 years with the City, he has been Assistant City Manager and Deputy City Manager, which required him to oversee several departments including Aviation, Economic Development, and International Affairs.

Flores is circulating a Council Concurrence Request Memo, which requires six signatures for approval, requesting that the Council place an item on a future agenda considering him for the post.

Newly elected Mayor Phil Hardberger stated during his campaign that hiring a new city manager was a priority for his administration.

Now that's cold: Although the mainstream media portrayed Governor Rick Perry as a sympathetic, chivalrous man sparing the lives of juveniles on death row, he was only following orders: The Supreme Court had ruled three months earlier that it is unconstitutional to execute people who committed crimes when they were younger than 18.

But 411 adult offenders remain on Texas' death row, and the Lone Star State continues to lead the nation in executions. To protest capital punishment, Texas Students Against the Death Penalty are hosting a fast and vigil outside the U.S. Supreme Court Building in Washington, D.C. through July 2. If you'd like to fly there and join them, call 601-7231.

Now that's old: In northwest Bexar County west of Culebra Creek, prehistoric and early Indian civilizations settled, leaving behind detritis from their communities.

The South Texas Archeological Association Field School is seeking volunteers to help excavate the site, known as 41BX708, from July 8-14. You must join the association to participate in the school, which provides members the opportunity to learn proper excavation methods and lab procedures. The site is shaded by trees. Camping will be allowed for those wishing to rough it. Remember, Native Americans didn't have air conditioning.

Registration and membership information is available at staa.org or contact Cathy McCool at 913-9154 or cmcool@satx.rr.com.

By Lisa Sorg