San Antonio's 'Queen of Vance Jackson' Balances Family and Community Amidst Wildlife Displacement Concerns
San Antonio native and self-proclaimed "Queen of Vance Jackson," Nina Duran, has spent the better part of 42 years living in various spots along or near Vance Jackson Road, now finding herself in the growing South Rim area. Duran's commitment to the city and proximity to family has kept her firmly rooted, despite peers who sought to leave. "I’m a 'bloom where you’re planted' kind of person," Duran told San Antonio Report, emphasizing her attachment to the city, even as it expands and reshapes the environment around her.
The need to stay near her aging parents, who sadly passed away in recent years, made Duran a member of "the sandwich generation," juggling care for elders while raising her own children. She has attempted to maintain a balance of family, work, and community involvement, focusing on the local bonds that are often forged through shared gatherings like Taco Truck Thursday at her apartment complex. "My sons made sure to get there early," she recounted about the event, highlighting small moments that shape the ethos of her neighborhood life.
Despite the warm community vibe, escalating development has caused more than a bit of a headache in South Rim, particularly for the local wildlife. Cranes top the skyline, and creatures like foxes, raccoons, and rabbits face displacement. "The view from our balcony right now looks like War of the Worlds with all the cranes and construction," Duran described the scene from her home. As homes rise, habitats fall, painting a grim picture for San Antonio's four-legged residents.
Concern for the ecological impact is a prevalent worry for Duran. Excessive outdoor lighting in her complex is disruptive to nocturnal bird patterns—another sign of conflicted progress. She's conflicted over the transformation, feeling a mix of guilt and helplessness as she watches animals struggle to adapt. "It’s heartbreaking," Duran said. Her search for wildlife rescue groups in the area has been fruitless, finding only pest control options. This has led to contemplations on stirring local support and speaking with officials, pushing for development plans more considerate of the non-human lives being turned upside down. Duran's experience is an emblematic microcosm of wider societal challenges, reconciling human advancement with environmental stewardship.
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