Over the last decade, an increase in alternative schooling options, such as charter schools and private schools, has created funding issues for local independent school districts.

With the growth of alternative schooling options, the student population for local public school districts has seen a steady decline over the last 10 years. As students transfer from public schools, the district can lose thousands of dollars in basic allotment, which are state funds given to the districts based on student attendance.

Two-minute impact: Community Impact analyzed student enrollment and transfer data from the Texas Education Agency for Northside ISD and NEISD. According to the data, a majority of students transferring out of the districts are choosing to transfer to charter and private schools.

A new restaurant that blends IHOP and Applebee’s into one is opening along I-10 at the end of September.

The details: Owned by HRG Apple Group, the dual-branded Applebee’s | IHOP restaurant will feature two distinct dining areas—one for IHOP and one for Applebee’s—connected by shared commons areas. The restaurant will feature a single menu curated with popular menu items from each brand. Menu items from each restaurant are available all day, and include specialty items, such as the spicy buffalo chicken omelette and the ultimate breakfast burger.

• 9911 I-10, San Antonio

 Want to learn how to maintain historic homes and places in San Antonio? The city of San Antonio Office of Historic Preservation, or OHP, is holding a series of training and classes for contractors, real estate agents and community members this fall.

Historic House Specialist—City Resources & Processes
Part of the Trainings for the Public & Real Estate Agents Series, attendees will learn about the design review process and resources. The course will discuss the terminology of architectural styles and give context about different districts.

Cemetery Steward Workshop
Part of the Cemetery Steward Program Series, OHP and the Parks & Recreation Department will train volunteers in hands-on cemetery conservation and documentation at the historic east-side cemeteries. Attendees will learn how to survey cemetery resources, complete conditions assessments and clean cemetery monuments and markers. Attendees must register online with the Parks & Recreation Department prior to attendance.

Gov. Greg Abbott issued a Sept. 10 executive order aimed at prohibiting hemp-derived THC products from being sold to minors, which he called “safety for kids, freedom for adults.” The order comes one week after a special legislative session ended without Abbott and state lawmakers agreeing on legislation to ban or restrict THC sales.

The details: Abbott’s order directs the Texas Department of State Health Services and the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission to “immediately begin the rulemaking process” on new THC regulations, including:

• Limiting THC sales to people 21 years and older
• Requiring THC retailers to check all customers’ IDs
• Expanding testing and labeling requirements for THC products
• Raising manufacturer and retailer licensing fees to cover costs of enforcing the new rules
• Enhancing monitoring by state and local law enforcement