Nicole McLeod, program analyst for the San Antonio Parks and Recreation Volunteer Services Division, said the parks department’s volunteer programs are designed to offer a wide range of activities suited to all ages and abilities.

The framework: Staffed by McLeod and Andre Dyer, the Volunteer Services Division coordinates a mix of ongoing programs, stand-alone projects and partner-led events. This includes gardening at various parks, litter pickups, cemetery stewardship programs and stand-alone events such as Earth Day San Antonio, Monarch Festival, Arbor Day for SA and National Night Out.

The local impact: Two programs that see the most volunteers and offer a greater opportunity for impact are the Trail Watch program and the Cemetery Stewardship program.

“Our goal is to offer a variety of projects that appeal to different ages, backgrounds and areas of town,” McLeod said. “So whether it’s garden days, litter pickups or cemetery stewardship, people can find a way to get involved that fits their interests and schedule.”

A new package of leasable salon suites has opened in San Antonio, opening up space for local stylists and clients alike.

Read all about it: Luxxe Salon Suites opened on Nov. 2 at 3011 TPC Parkway, a manager from the business told Community Impact.

The new facility is two stories tall and contains private suites for independent stylists, aestheticians, and other beauty professionals.

This local chain has locations across the San Antonio area—most recently opening a new set of suites near Boerne, according to previous reporting from Community Impact.

Additionally, another set of suites opened in Cibolo, while the chain’s fourth overall location is situated in the Stone Oak area of northern San Antonio.

Breaking it down: Offering suites equipped with beauty salon necessities and amenities, the business allows professionals with 24/7 access to rooms.

Services provided by stylists range from haircuts, nails, waxing, lash extensions and other beauty services.

Additional amenities include free internet access, a concierge service, security cameras and more.

• 3011 TPC Parkway, San Antonio

On Dec. 9, VIA Metropolitan Transit celebrated the launch of the southeast San Antonio VIA Link Zone, which is the sixth Link Zone to open in the city, at the Pre-K 4 SA – South Education Center.

The details: According to a news release, VIA Link Southeast began service on Nov. 3 and covers approximately 13.8 square miles in Southeast and East San Antonio, including the Brooks Transit Center and the forthcoming Eastside Transit Center. The service is open from 5 a.m.-11 p.m. with a wait time of roughly 20 minutes or less.

The VIA Link app allows riders to book a ride in specially designated vans, which will drop them off anywhere within the Link Zone. Rides cost $1.30 per ride and riders can request a free transfer if transferring to a VIA bus.

• 7903 S. New Braunfels Ave., San Antonio

A new model building store has opened its doors in Boerne, offering a selection of historic models, gaming models and other products for hobbyists.

A closer look: Owner of The Model Box, Stan Spooner, told Community Impact that the store focuses on providing a social setting for hobbyists.

Spooner said one goal for the business is to bring in modeling experts to share techniques and host seminars for beginners to the hobby. Seminars will include live videos and tutorials from known modelers around the world, Spooner said. The goal is to have more events following the start of the new year, with updates being posted to the business's social media pages. While offering a space for people invested in the modeling hobby, the business also offers a place for kids to get involved or have parties.

• 1022 N. Main St., Boerne