The Zapata Times 5/21/2011

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LEGISLATURE

RECREATION

Layoffs possible in new state budget

Top of the lake

By APRIL CASTRO AND CHRIS TOMLINSON ASSOCIATED PRESS

AUSTIN — Negotiators reached an agreement on a two-year, $80.6 billion Texas state budget that makes billions in cuts and will likely result in massive state layoffs, legislative leaders announced Friday. In addition, school funding was cut by about 6 percent.

Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst and House Speaker Joe Straus, who had been in marathon negotiating sessions, did not release details of the final plan.

Lawmakers have been grappling with a multibillion-dollar revenue shortfall. Republican leaders have vowed not to raise taxes and want to limit how much they spend from the state’s Rainy Day Fund, projected to have a balance of almost $10 billion.

Instead, they’ve made massive cuts to all levels of state government, including public schools and health care for the disabled, elderly and poor.

Dewhurst said the plan protects taxpayers and makes a “historic $15 billion cut in government spending.”

The plan still has to be printed and go back to both chambers for final approval.

The Legislature is constitutionally obligated to adopt the two-year state budget, which funds public schools, highways, courts, prisons and numerous other state programs.

“The agreement that we reached with the Senate today funds nursing homes, our public schools and universities, and provides financial aid for col-

Zapata a contender for Ultimate Finishing Town

By ERICA MATOS THE ZAPATA TIMES

Zapata’s very own Falcon Lake has made it into the top 20 towns contending for the World Fishing Network’s title of Ultimate Fishing Town USA. Citizens and non-citizens alike have until May 31 to cast their vote for this fishing hot spot.

Two towns were selected from each of seven regions — Southwest, Midwest, Southeast, Florida, Northeast, Pacific and the Rockies — to advance to the top 20. Zapata is currently leading in the Southwest region, placing it at 220 votes, far ahead of the 48 votes for Grand Isle, La., Zapata’s closest competitor in the May 3 round of voting.

In addition, six towns are chosen as wild cards to round out the leaderboard. Though not one of the wild cards, Zapata is still ranked 18th on the WFN leaderboard as of Friday, May 20, so continuous voting is encouraged.

“Falcon Lake is really a fisher-

See FISHING PAGE 10A

SAN YGNACIO

See BUDGET PAGE 10A

MEXICO

Gunmen in sights of army, navy

By CÉSAR G. RODRIGUEZ THE ZAPATA TIMES

Photos by Danny Zaragoza | Laredo Morning Times

ABOVE: Maria Eva Uribe, left, and Cynthia Villarreal, right, present a first place trophy for best float to Mary Zapata and Amador Zapata at the San Ygnacio Cinco De Mayo Jamaica Celebration on Sunday afternoon at Plaza Blas Maria. BELOW: 2011 Little Mr. San Ygnacio, Eduardo S. Villarreal, sits atop a Cadillac Escalade during the San Ygnacio Cinco De Mayo Parade and Jamaica Celebration on Sunday afternoon at Plaza Blas Maria.

CELEBRATING HISTORY Parade, jamaica headline Cinco de Mayo celebration

Federal authorities patrolling Tamaulipas state in Mexico have been kept on their toes with several drug-war related incidents which erupted throughout the week, including deaths, drugs and the seizure of weapons.

Mexico’s army and navy, SEDENA and SEMAR, and the Procuraduría General de la República or PGR, Mexico’s attorney general, are working together to combat the drug problem.

Federal authorities announced Thursday that SEDENA and Mexico’s air force seized more than 100 weapons after a gunbattle reported in Matamoros, across the river from Brownsville. An air force chopper patrolling the outskirts of Matamoros spotted a convoy of 17 vehicles traveling on a rural road. The chopper followed the vehicles.

When those in the convoy noticed the chopper, the people inside the vehicles opened fired at the

AN YGNACIO — Every May for the last 21 years, residents of the historic town of San Ignacio have had their town full of fiesta colors.

The San Ignacio Ladies Club headed the annual Cinco de Mayo Celebration on Sunday afternoon with a parade followed by a jamaica.

The parade began at 11 a.m. on Santa Maria Avenue next to the U.S. Post Office. A combined color guard from American Legion posts 59 and 486 led the way. Floats followed behind. Residents decorated their trucks with Mexican sombreros and fiesta colors.

See MEXICO PAGE 9A

See SAN YGNACIO PAGE 10A

By CESAR G. RODRIGUEZ THE ZAPATA TIMES

S

PAGE 2A

Zin brief CALENDAR

SATURDAY, MAY 21, 2011

AROUND TEXAS

TODAY IN HISTORY

SATURDAY, MAY 21 Veterans Helping Veterans will meet in the Laredo Public Library, 1120 E. Calton Road, from noon to 2:30 p.m. today and June 4 and 18. Meetings are confidential and for military veterans only. For more information, contact George Mendez at 794-3057 or georgem@borderregion.org or Jessica Morales at 794-3091 or jessicam@borderregion.org.

As part of Laredo’s Biggest Loser Challenge, the City of Laredo Parks and Leisure Services Department will hold Zumba classes at North Central Park, 10202 International Blvd., from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Saturdays through May 21. Registration is $25. For more information, visit Laredo’s Biggest Loser Challenge on Facebook.

Washington Middle School, 10306 Riverbank Drive, will host an open, nonrated chess tournament for students K-12 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. today. There will also be a special adult/ college section. Registration is from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m., with the first round scheduled for 9:30 a.m. The entry fee is $7 if preregistered or $10 at the door. For more information, call Dan Navarro at 722-4600.

The Webb County Retired Teachers Association will hold its Installation of Officers and Awards Ceremony at a banquet at 11:30 a.m. today at the Embassy Suites Hotel, 110 Calle del Norte. Admission is $16.

The March of Dimes Baby Shower, hosted by Girl Scout Troop 9128, is from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. today at 701 N. Stone Ave. The event will feature games, drinks, food and more. The donation is $15, which covers the cost of a blanket/beanie set donated to a premature baby born in the area. Make checks payable to Laredo Stitch-NPrint. For more information, call Corina at 956-763-1147 or Amanda at 956723-7251.

SUNDAY, MAY 22 St. Patrick Church’s Men’s Club will have a steak asado plate sale from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on church grounds, 555 Del Mar Blvd. The donation is $5 per plate. Proceeds go to the Men’s Club scholarship fund, which gives seven $1,000 scholarships to St. Patrick parish high school students. For more information, call 324-2432.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 25 Texas AgriLife Extension Service will sponsor a Pesticide Applicator Recertification Course from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. today at the Webb County Agriculture Building, located at 7209 E. Saunders St. The course is an approved Texas Department of Agriculture course worth five credits towards a private, noncommercial or commercial pesticide applicator license. The registration fee includes a noon meal and refreshments, plus training materials and handouts. For special accommodations, call the Webb County Extension Service office in advance to make arrangements. For more information, contact Webb County Agricultural Extension Agent George L. Gonzales at 956-721-2626, 721-2627, 721-2229 or gl-gonzales@tamu.edu.

THURSDAY, MAY 26 The Laredo Public Library Board iBook It Teen Reading Club invites Laredo teens to attend the book discussion at 6 p.m. today at the library, 1120 E. Calton Road. The book discussed will be “Thirteen Reasons Why.” For more information, contact Niki Acosta at 795-2400, extension 2263, or niki@laredolibrary.org or Kelly Simms at 795-2400, extension 2235, or kelly@laredolibrary.org.

FRIDAY, MAY 27 The J.W. Nixon Class of 1986 will have its 25th Anniversary Reunion today and Saturday. Graduates-only night is from 7:30 p.m. to 11:45 p.m. today at LIFE Downs, off U.S. 59. Graduates and guests are welcome May 28 at La Posada Hotel. For more information, call Denise Longoria at (956) 286-8185, Norma Segura at (956) 334-8100 or Valdi Guzman at (956) 337-8411.

SATURDAY, MAY 28 Celebrating the 256th anniversary of Laredo’s founding, the Webb County Heritage Foundation will host a Founder’s Day luncheon at noon Saturday, May 28, in the Student Center Ballroom of Texas A&M International University. The event will feature the inauguration of the new President of the Republic of the Rio Grande, Annabelle U. Hall. Tickets can be obtained by calling 956-727-0977.

ASSOCIATED PRESS

Photo by David J. Phillip | AP

Marine Lance Cpl. Matt Ferreira reaches to shake hands with supporters as wounded soldiers from across the country arrive at George Bush Intercontinental Airport on Friday in Houston. The non-profit group Warrior’s Weekend is brining nearly 400 soldiers to Port O’Connor to go fishing over the weekend as part of Warrior’s Weekend V.

Texas jobless rate falls ASSOCIATED PRESS

AUSTIN — The Texas unemployment rate dropped for the third consecutive month to 8.0 percent in April as another 32,900 nonfarm jobs were added, the state employment agency said Friday.

The preliminary local jobless rate for Laredo for April was 8.0 percent.

Jobs grew for the seventh consecutive month, and Texas has added more than 86,000 positions since the start of the year, according to Texas Workforce Commission figures.

The Texas jobless rate dropped from 8.1 percent in March and 8.2 percent a year ago, remaining below the national figure of 9.0 percent. The March figure marked the first time in four years that the state’s unemployment rate fell in consecutive months.

Austin pastor sentenced in fake green card scam SAN ANTONIO — A Texas pastor convicted of making counterfeit green cards has been sentenced to a year in prison and faces the possibility of deportation.

Felipe DeJesus Coronel Pacheco was sentenced Friday in a San Antonio federal court. The 55year-old pleaded guilty to charges of making fake immigration documents.

Coronel is a Mexican-born pastor of an Austin church who had a legitimate permanent-residency card. The San Antonio Express-News reports He now faces the prospect of deportation.

Coronel did not list previous arrests for drug charges and drunk driving on his citizenship application. He told the judge he felt badly for doing damage to the country that provided him food, work and education.

Prosecutors say Coronel and an associate sold 60 to 100 fake green cards while being investi-

“Texas has demonstrated its ability to bounce back from the effects of the national recession through strong and consistent job growth over the past year,” commission Chairman Tom Pauken said in a statement, noting that Texas led the nation by adding 500,000 jobs in the past five years.

The trade, transportation and utilities sector added 17,900 jobs in April and has gained 48,700 positions over the past year. Education and health services added 11,300 jobs last month.

Professional and business services tacked on 8,000 jobs, and the sector has had the strongest year-over-year increase with 57,900 positions.

“The decrease in the unemployment rate over the month and over the year is another welcome sign,” said Andres Alcantar, the commissioner representing the public.

gated by federal authorities.

Ex-charity head gets 25 years in embezzlement AUSTIN — The former head of a defunct Austin charity has been sentenced to 25 years in prison for stealing more than $1 million from a church and two nonprofit groups, including the one she ran.

Louanne Aponte pleaded guilty Friday to theft charges.

Prosecutors say the 52-year-old former executive director of Family Connections stole more than $1 million while leading the group that specialized in child care services.

The Austin American-Statesman reported that Aponte also pleaded guilty to stealing from Hyde Park Christian Church and a statewide child care association she served as treasurer.

Aponte fled last year to Venezuela, where she has relatives, after a state audit revealed she had falsified records. She returned to the U.S. six months later and was immediately arrested.

State House doesn’t want EPA regulating refineries AUSTIN — The Texas House has approved a resolution urging the U.S. Congress to keep the Environmental Protection Agency from regulating greenhouse gases emitted by oil refineries.

The measure Friday 107-34. It also urges EPA to keep from interfering with emissions from gas wells, factories and electricity generating sources.

Both the House and Senate have scrambled to hammer out a budget agreement this week. Yet the EPA measure isn’t the first recommendation Texas lawmakers have found time to make to their federal counterparts.

The House approved a resolution that urges the “federal government to cease and desist from certain mandates” and calls for repealing some federal legislation. Supporters say that measure refers generally to unfunded federal mandates and banking regulations.

— Compiled from AP reports

AROUND THE NATION An unknown, Huntsman presses White House bid HANCOCK, N.H. — Republican Jon Huntsman on Friday heard a major hurdle to his White House aspirations summed up in a single voter’s question: “Aside from Utah, who are you?”

The little-known former Utah governor, who is almost certain to run for president, was using a five-day visit to the first-in-thenation primary state to provide an answer to Republicans here and elsewhere searching for a candidate to challenge President Barack Obama.

Puerto Rican nationalist: Not guilty in big heist HARTFORD, Conn. — A Puerto Rican nationalist sought by U.S. authorities for more than a quarter century pleaded not guilty Friday to charges in connection with one of the nation’s

Today is Saturday, May 21, the 141st day of 2011. There are 224 days left in the year.

Today’s Highlight in History: On May 21, 1911, during the Mexican Revolution, the Treaty of Ciudad Juarez was signed by President Porfirio Diaz and revolutionary leader Francisco I. Madero; under the agreement, Diaz resigned his office, and ended up living the rest of his life in exile in France.

On this date: In 1471, King Henry VI of England died in the Tower of London at age 49.

In 1542, Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto died while searching for gold along the Mississippi River.

In 1881, Clara Barton founded the American Red Cross.

In 1892, the opera “Pagliacci,” by Ruggero Leoncavallo, was first performed, in Milan, Italy.

In 1927, Charles A. Lindbergh landed his Spirit of St. Louis near Paris, completing the first solo airplane flight across the Atlantic Ocean in 331/2 hours.

In 1932, Amelia Earhart became the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean as she landed in Northern Ireland, about 15 hours after leaving Newfoundland.

In 1941, a German U-boat sank the American merchant steamship SS Robin Moor in the South Atlantic after allowing the ship’s passengers and crew to board lifeboats.

In 1956, the United States exploded the first airborne hydrogen bomb over Bikini Atoll in the Pacific.

In 1972, Michelangelo’s Pieta, on display at the Vatican, was damaged with a hammer by an apparently deranged man who shouted he was Jesus Christ.

In 1991, former Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated during national elections by a suicide bomber.

Ten years ago: The Mitchell Report on Mideast violence called on Palestinians to jail terrorists and Israel to freeze settlement activity. Cardinals from around the world gathered at the Vatican for a threeday meeting to ponder the challenges facing the Roman Catholic Church and who might lead it after Pope John Paul II. The Supreme Court ruled, 6-3, that a radio host cannot be sued for airing a phone conversation taped illegally by a third party.

Today’s Birthdays: Rhythm-and-blues singer Ron Isley (The Isley Brothers) is 70. Rock musician Hilton Valentine (The Animals) is 68. Actor Richard Hatch (“Battlestar Galactica”) is 66. Musician Bill Champlin is 64. Singer Leo Sayer is 63. Actress Carol Potter is 63. Sen. Al Franken (DMinn.) is 60. Actor Mr. T is 59.

Music producer Stan Lynch is 56. Actor Judge Reinhold is 54.

Actor-director Nick Cassavetes is 52. Actor Brent Briscoe is 50. Actress Lisa Edelstein is 45. Actress Fairuza Balk is 37.

Rapper Havoc (Mobb Deep) is 37. Actress Ashlie Brillault is 24. Actor Scott Leavenworth is 21. Actress Sarah Ramos is 20.

Thought for Today: “Originality does not consist in saying what no one has ever said before, but in saying exactly what you think yourself.” — James Stephens, Irish poet and novelist (1882-1950).

CONTACT US Publisher, William B. Green........................728-2501 Business Manager, Dora Martinez ...... (956) 324-1226 General Manager, Adriana Devally ...............728-2510 Retail Adv. Manager, Raul Cruz................... 728-2511 Classified Manager, Jesse Vicharreli ........... 728-2525 Adv. Billing Inquiries ................................. 728-2531 Circulation Director ................................. 728-2559 MIS Director, Michael Castillo.................... 728-2505 City Editor, Mary Nell Sanchez .................. 728-2543 Sports Editor, Dennis Silva II......................728-2579 Entertainment Editor, Emilio Rábago III ....... 728-2564 Spanish Editor, Melva Lavín-Castillo............ 728-2569 Online Editor, Julie Silva........................... 728-2565

SUBSCRIPTIONS/DELIVERY Photo by Mel Evans | AP

Workers remove items from the US Airways jet, flight 1549, as it sits outside a warehouse on Friday in Harrison, N.J. The plane splash-landed in the Hudson River in 2009, making a national hero of pilot Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger. largest robberies.

Norberto Gonzalez Claudio, 65, entered his pleas before U.S. Magistrate Judge Donna Martinez. He faces 15 federal counts, including bank robbery, conspiracy and transportation of stolen money for his alleged role in the

1983 robbery of $7 million at a Wells Fargo armored car depot in West Hartford.

Gonzalez was originally charged in 1985, but wasn’t found until earlier this month in Puerto Rico.

— Compiled from AP reports

(956) 728-2555 The Zapata Times is distributed on Saturdays to 4,000 households in Zapata County. For subscribers of the Laredo Morning Times and for those who buy the Laredo Morning Times at newsstands, the Zapata Times is inserted.

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The Zapata Times is published by the Laredo Morning Times, a division of The Hearst Corporation, P.O. Box 2129, Laredo, Texas 78044. Phone (956) 728-2500.

The Zapata office is at 1309 N. U.S. Hwy. 83 at 14th Avenue, Suite 2, Zapata, TX 78076. Call (956) 765-5113 or e-mail thezapatatimes.net

SATURDAY, MAY 21, 2011

Zlocal

PAGE 3A

Some to get new rep

Handling money is key chore Courtesy photo

By JULIE SILVA THE ZAPATA TIMES

Some Zapata residents will see a change in local representation as the county’s redistricting is under way.

A study contracted by the Commissioners Court found that 250 residents should be moved from Pct. 4 into Pcts. 1 and 2, according to Jose Emilio Vela, Pct. 1 commissioner.

“It looks like we need to change the precinct line because I needed to add more population in my precinct, as does (Pct. 2) Commissioner (Gabriel) Villarreal,” Vela said. “We have the lowest population in our precincts, and we need to add some from Pct. 4.”

The issue will be discussed at a special called meeting at 9 a.m. Tuesday at the Zapata County Courthouse.

He added that the court has until October to approve of the new boundaries, but he wanted to move forward with the discussion. Villarreal and Pct. 4 Commissioner Norberto Garza did not return phone calls Friday afternoon.

Vela said his precinct would extend beyond Texas 16, from Hidalgo Boulevard to Glenn Street and everything in between.

“We’re pretty much already settled on (the new boundaries),” Vela said. “I already spoke to Commissioner Garza, the Pct. 4 commissioner, and he didn’t have any objections to what we have done.”

Vela added that he’s already spoken to several of the affected residents, who, he said, liked the boundary change.

Other items on Tuesday’s agenda include: Possible action to approve the final payment to ABCT Contractors for the Pct. 2 bond paving project To install a security light at 507 Falcon Lane To install a speed hump at the corner of Falcon and Cuellar Lane in Siesta Shores To install a speed hump at 1809 Glenn St. To approve the extension of water and sewer service to a parcel of land owned by Senaida Granger and Jim Bob Granger To approve a county sewer connection for a grinder station located on a five-acre tract of land owned by Manuel Gonzalez Jr. To approve county water meter connection for a 2.5-acre tract of land owned by Valerie Ann Gonzalez To approve use of the Zapata County Pavilion grounds as the starting point for the Zapata/Laredo Fun Race to benefit Casa La Esperanza Crisis Pregnancy Center To award a bid recommendation to GuzmanJuarez Backhoe Services for the Zapata County Waterworks Raw Water Line.

(Julie Silva may be reached at jsilva@lmtonline.com or (956) 728-2565.)

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Youth of the Month and Youth of the Year honorees are shown at the Zapata High School Library.

They include Rene R. Salinas, Youth of the Month for April; Adriana N. Ramirez, Youth of the Month for May; Lizbeth Martinez, Youth of the Year; and Denise H. Eliserio, Youth of the Month for March.

Four receive BP honors SPECIAL TO THE TIMES

The Zapata Station of the United States Border Patrol announced its Youth of the Month and Youth of the Year for 2011 recently. The event was held at Zapata High School.

The Youth of the Month winners were Denise H. Elisero for March; Rene R. Salinas for April; and Adrianna N. Ramirez for

May. The honorees are all seniors from Zapata High School.

The Youth of the Year for Zapata is Lizbeth Martinez. She is a senior at Zapata High School and is the daughter of Hervey and Maria Lesbia Martinez. Lizbeth is a member of the Mariachi Halcon and has received national award recognition. She is also a member of the National Honor Society and

an active volunteer in her community. She plans to attend The University of Texas-Pan American in Edinburg and major in computer engineering.

Next week, Martinez will be a special guest at the Texas Capitol. She will meet with Rep. Ryan Guillen and will be recognized on the floor of the Texas House of Representatives and be given a private tour of the Capitol.

THE BLOTTER BURGLARY A 67-year-old man reported at 10:03 a.m. May 13 at Vela-Cuellar Ranch, located in the southern area of Zapata, that someone vandalized his ranch house.

A burglary of a building was reported at 11:25 a.m. May 14 in the 200 block of Carla Street.

CRIMINAL MISCHIEF A 35-year-old woman reported at 4:02 a.m. May 15 in the 1200 block of U.S. 83 that someone keyed her four-door Chevy passenger vehicle.

POSSESSION OF FIREARM Juan Gabriel Benavides, 34, was arrested and charged with unlawful possession of a firearm at

about 6:15 a.m. May 14 in the 1200 block of Roma Street. The man was taken to Zapata Regional Jail and held in lieu of a $10,000 bond. Deputies seized a handgun.

PUBLIC INTOXICATION Lucio Guzman, 50, was arrested and charged with public intoxication at about 2 a.m. May 13 in the 400 block of Ramireño Avenue. Deputies say the man was walking in the middle of the street.

He was taken to Zapata Regional Jail and later released for time already served.

Manuel Mauro Galvan-Gomez, 32, was arrested and charged with public intoxication just after noon Monday in the 1300 block of Guerrero Avenue. Deputies took him to Zapata Regional Jail. He was later

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released to appear in court at a future date.

TERRORISTIC THREAT A 36-year-old woman reported at 9:25 a.m. Tuesday in the 600 block of Hidalgo Avenue that a man threatened her. Deputies say the woman claimed the alleged offender threatened her with a gun.

THEFT A 46-year-old man reported at noon May 13 at Clareño Ranch, south of U.S. 83, that someone stole a frack tank from his property.

B

y most accounts the U.S. economy is bouncing back from the recession that began in 2007. And according to a national 2011 study conducted by a leading market research company, 12- to 17-yearolds, who are expected to spend more than $208 billion in 2011, are leading the recovery.

Are our children ready for that kind of responsibility? Have we prepared them to use their financial strength wisely?

By teaching the next generation how to save money, build a credit score, protect themselves from identity theft and obtain a credit card, we are giving them a lifetime of tools to manage their finances responsibly.

But college, or even high school, is too late to begin that education.

That’s why IBC Bank has developed Money Buzz, a program that makes learning about money fun for elementary school kids.

Lessons are designed to be age appropriate while engaging children and preparing them for more complex financial lessons later in life. For example, kindergartners, along with second- and third-graders, use crayons and colored pencils while fourth- and fifth-graders practice with calculators.

Money Buzz teaches children how saving for

RENATO RAMIREZ: Discusses teaching children how to handle money. long-lasting items like a puppy, rather than spending on short-term treats like a piece of candy, enables them to receive greater value for their money. These are lessons in earning interest rather than paying interest that will serve them throughout their lives.

By teaching our children sound financial management practices, we not only prepare them for life after graduation, but we give them the tools to reach graduation. That’s why I want to make sure today’s, and even more importantly, tomorrow’s generations have the opportunity to become financially literate and apply these important benefits to their lives and the lives of their families.

Renato Ramirez is CEO of IBC-Bank Zapata.

PAGE 4A

Zopinion

SATURDAY, MAY 21, 2011

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR SEND YOUR SIGNED LETTER TO EDITORIAL@LMTONLINE.COM

COLUMN

OTHER VIEWS

Graduating from Oprah

By ROBYN OKRANT THE WASHINGTON POST

P

ut on your caps and gowns — we are graduating! It’s natural to be nervous. Since 1986, we have lived within the safe confines of the very best televised self-actualization program.

We’ve followed the rules and have integrated the rituals into our daily lives. We’ve completed the homework assignments and the rigorous online testing. We’ve read most (well, some) of the books on the syllabus and sat in class with our rapt attention on the teacher. But now class is dismissed: Oprah Winfrey is closing shop on her television show/University of Life.

Time to accept our diplomas and brave the world without her guidance.

Some loyal viewers are in a panic about the finale of “The Oprah Winfrey Show” on Wednesday, and fret that their days will never be the same.

Agony Back in November 2009, when the hostess with the mostess announced that she would end her talk show in 2011, many of her most ardent fans began to agonize. Just short of slipping on “The End is Nigh” sandwich boards, they chattered nervously over soy lattes and wrung their hands before Zumba class. Who would give them their daily dose of tough-love, celebrity-fawning and makeovers-&-unders? How would they survive a single day without hearing Oprah’s wisdom? It was as if they were reenacting the sweaty withdrawal scenes from “Trainspotting” — except with bouncier hair, thanks to regular use of Oprah’s favorite brand of keratin shampoo.

I understand and respect the feeling of impending doom that comes with the airing of Oprah’s last show. But I can say with 100 percent confidence: There is happiness and fulfillment on the other side.

Living Oprah Back in 2008 I launched a project called Living Oprah, spending an entire year putting every one of Winfrey’s holistic lifestyle suggestions to the test. Before I began my experiment, I couldn’t understand why people — mainly women — sunk so much energy into trying to live up to Oprah’s advice. Even my smart, independent mother clamored for Winfrey’s favorite bra and kept uttering the phrase, “I have to keep my girls up.”

I was skeptical that she would have practical advice that would positively change my life.

But within weeks of watching her show regularly, I was ensnared by her magnetic personality, her new-and-improved paths to enlightenment and her heart-warming guests. I can honestly say, with only a small amount of embarrassment, that an Oprah episode changed my life. (Don’t judge.

Oprah wouldn’t like that.)

Her guest was Kris Carr, a woman living — no, thriving — with cancer.

Winfrey masterfully guided the interview and drew out the very best in Carr, who disclosed that her dire diagnosis inspired her to live each and every day to its fullest. And Winfrey chal-

lenged her audience: If a patient with inoperable cancer can find a way to live her best life, we can, too.

O’s show promised revelation and motivation.

And it delivered.

I also became addicted to the never-before-seenon-TV secrets that would make me happier, fitter, eternally youthful and more spiritually sound. I found myself part of a clique for the first time in my life and shared a bond with millions of fellow travelers. I was part of the O-crowd and didn’t have to worry about anyone judging my choices in life, because we were all following the same template.

Losing individuality

EDITORIAL

My husband, though, worried that I was losing my spark, my individuality. And to some extent, I was. Even though Oprah urged us to follow our own truth, I simply fell into step with hers. I grew exhausted as my year wore on — my days were filled with exercising for the BestLife Challenge, redecorating rooms, meditating, making vision boards, completing selfhelp tests, trying vegan cleanses, seeing Celine Dion live in concert, throwing dinner parties.

Anything Oprah told her audience to do, I did without question.

Eventually, I became eager for my year-long project to end. But when the clock struck midnight on Dec. 31, I was surprised that I didn’t want to let her go. I’d become conditioned to need Oprah.

For the sake of my marriage and my sanity, however, I ceased watching the show, and the Oshaped space in my heart faded away. I stopped seeking out her newest advice, and halted almost all past Oprah-mandated projects (although I still take my O-approved handful of anti-aging vitamins and supplements religiously). In time, I stopped hearing Oprah in my head when I made decisions. Instead of searching out a new guru to take Oprah’s place, I taught myself to listen to my own voice again. And frankly, that is exactly what Oprah has prodded us to do. While her show has been successful because of our addiction to it, her message has always been to fearlessly tread your own course.

And it’s worked, because I know I don’t need her any longer.

Resolution limits president

Best advice Her best advice has been reflected in her own career, in her trajectory from a poor, abused, downtrodden child in Mississippi to a megawatt international superstar and empire-builder. Her talk show was thrilling because every time we turned it on, she showed us the possibility of attaining the American dream.

Oprah’s teachings might not have led me to a better life, but her example has.

Oprah is a master of timing. She’s leaving on top, she’s leaving while we still want her, and she’s leaving before the evolution of infotainment makes her show irrelevant. While it’s true that her ratings have dropped in recent years, she still hovers at more than 6 million viewers a week.

That’s fifth among all syndicated programs on network television.

THE WASHINGTON POST

F

riday marks the 60th day in which the United States has been involved in the U.N.sanctioned military operation in Libya. The twomonth anniversary confronts the Obama administration with a difficult question: Will it obey the law — specifically the War Powers Resolution?

That act, passed in 1973 in response to the Vietnam War, allows the president to commit troops to hostilities without congressional authorization for 60 days.

Once he has reached that milestone, the president must get congressional approval or suspend operations. The act allows one 30-day extension but only to ensure the safe and orderly withdrawal of military forces.

We supported President Barack Obama’s decision to join allies from NATO to prevent the potential massacre of thousands at the hands of Libyan strongman Moammar Gadhafi; that mission clearly has not yet been accomplished and would probably be set back should the United States pull out. We have also long harbored doubts about the wisdom of the War Powers Resolution, threatening as it does to permit Congress to infringe on the president’s constitutional authority to command and direct military operations. This tension is palpable, but ignoring the War Powers Resolution — or offering disingenuous arguments about why it does not apply — is not the answer.

An assertion that congressional approval is unnecessary because NATO —

and not the United States — is waging the Libyan conflict is not persuasive and ignores the fact that NATO weapons and personnel are supplied and directed by member countries, including the United States. Arguments that the United States is no longer involved in hostilities also fall short. As recently as late April, the United States conducted military strikes using drones. “The president has said where we have unique capabilities, he is willing to use those,” Defense Secretary Robert Gates said at the time — and rightly so.

The administration seems not even to have tried to secure Congress’ buy-in before the Friday deadline.

Rather than dodge compliance, the president should seek congressional authorization next week, once both chambers are back in ses-

sion. As the Supreme Court has noted, the president’s powers are at their highest when he acts in concert with Congress. In this case, Obama’s flexibility in taking appropriate action in Libya would be enhanced by securing Congress’ endorsement.

Should Congress refuse, the president has another, although less palatable, option. If he believes that continued involvement is vital to U.S. security and to protecting Libyan innocents, he should inform Congress and the public about his intention of going forward with the campaign, openly challenge the constitutionality of the War Powers Resolution and work toward its repeal or amendment. We sympathize with his dilemma, but ignoring the law of the land is not an acceptable way out.

COLUMN

Immigration speech falls short

By ED MORALES MCCLATCHY-TRIBUNE NEWS SERVICE

P

resident Obama’s recent speech in El Paso, addressing America’s broken immigration policy was very disappointing to immigrant advocates, the Latino community and anyone concerned about human rights.

He offered only a vague assessment of the issue, and ignored calls by leading Latino politicians, most notably Rep. Luis Gutierrez, D-Ill., to use his executive powers to take decisive action to reform the system.

Obama seemed distracted and, at times, even flippant as he stated his case.

He said that the issue was “complex,” even though there is nothing complicated about immigration policies that have resulted in increasing deportations —

or that have split up many families unjustly and arbitrarily.

He even hewed to the standard conservative position that undocumented immigrants have “cut in front of the line ... making a mockery of those who are trying to immigrate legally.” This line of rhetoric disregards how policies like the North American Free Trade Agreement have destabilized Mexico’s economy and thrown millions of people out of work, making immigration inevitable.

When he attempted to sing the praises of bolstering border security with the construction of a huge fence along the U.S.-Mexico border, the initially sympathetic and largely Hispanic crowd turned hostile, booing at the mere mention of it.

One of the few ways he

found to support immigration was to extol the virtues of highly skilled and educated workers and entrepreneurs who have helped create companies like Google, Yahoo and Intel. While these are impressive American success stories, the meat of the immigration issue surrounds the fate of millions of poorly skilled and less-educated workers from Mexico and Central America and their families.

While he acknowledged that there was a “human toll” taken by harsh laws that result in the deportation of “decent people” among hardworking immigrants, Obama vowed only to “keep up the fight to pass genuine, comprehensive reform.” It’s no secret that many immigrant advocates and Latino leaders feel that the Obama administration has not held up

DOONESBURY | GARRY TRUDEAU

its end of the bargain to do this.

Both Gutierrez and Sen. Bob Menendez, D-N.J., have argued that Obama has executive power to order a “parole in place” or temporary legal status, and that he should use this power especially for the 1 million high school and college-age students who were brought into the country illegally by their parents. Obama seemed to answer this plea by saying he wished he could bypass Congress and change the law himself, but “that’s not how a democracy works.” In fact, this executive power is routinely used for Cuban emigres.

Obama’s speech came off as just a half-hearted attempt to try to keep Latino voters in the Democratic fold as the presidential election year approaches.

He’ll need to do better than that.

SATURDAY, MAY 21, 2011

THE ZAPATA TIMES 5A

PAGE 6A

Zentertainment

Iglesias, Pitbull at arena

By EMILIO RÁBAGO III THE ZAPATA TIMES

Armed with multiple top hits, Spanish pop artist Enrique Iglesias is making his way to the Gateway City in the fall.

Iglesias, whose “Tonight (I’m Loving You)” dance track with Cuban-American rapper Pitbull is an anthem around the globe, will be accompanied by Pitbull in October.

Laredo Energy Arena officials on Monday announced the tour stop, which will be on Sunday, Oct. 16. Tickets go on sale today at 10 a.m.

Also set to perform is newcomer Prince Royce.

Iglesias has a new Top 40 track, “Dirty Dancer,” which features Usher and Lil Wayne. His other recent single, “I Like It,” was also a monster smash hit.

Iglesias is touring behind his recently released “Euphoria,” his new album that features established musical guests such as Akon, Nicole Scherzinger, Usher, Puerto Rican reggaeton duo Wisin and Yandel, Juan Luis Guerra and Lionel Richie.

For his part, Pitbull has a No. 4 hit on Billboard’s Hot 100 at the moment.

The track, “Give Me Everything,” is in the same

vein as “Tonight.”

“Give Me Everything” features Ne-Yo and beats

by Afrojack, an up-andcoming DJ/producer from the Netherlands who has already produced top dance hits for himself. But that’s Pitbull’s forté — picking up on good, catchy beats and remixing them with his own lyrical spin.

(Emilio Rábago III may be reached at 728-2564 or erabago@lmtonline.com)

Outsiders host car show Sunday

By EMILIO RÁBAGO III THE ZAPATA TIMES

Vintage car fanatics will have plenty to feast their eyes on this Sunday as the 9th Annual Laredo Car Show takes over the Laredo Energy Arena grounds.

The Outsiders Hot Rod and Vintage Car Club is putting together the car show, which begins at 8 a.m.

“We expect a lot of people, a lot of support from other car clubs and motorcycle clubs,” said Larry Puig, a member of Outsiders. “It’s for everybody. We have categories for everybody.”

The car show will award first and second place winners in more than 30 categories. Puig emphasized new cars — all cars basically — are welcome.

“You don’t need to own a classic car to be a (club) member,” he said. “It’s about dedicating time to the community. It’s fanatics about cars, talk to other fanatics.”

Puig, who was born in Laredo, said Outsiders gives back to the young and the needy of Laredo and surrounding communities.

Last year alone, the car club awarded $500 scholarships to 14 area students.

This year, the organization — sponsored by Sames Motor Co. — is planning to do the same.

But Sunday’s car show has a more positive twist to it. Gonzalez Auto Parts is helping The Outsiders of Laredo grant a wish via the Make-A-Wish campaign.

Six-year-old Daniel, a Laredoan, wants an electronic

Photo by Joseph Giron | Special to the Times

Outsiders Hot Rod and Vintage Car Club will host its 9th Annual Laredo Car Show at the Laredo Energy Arena grounds on Sunday. The event starts around 11 a.m. and lasts until 4 p.m. shopping spree. Daniel’s wish will come true on Saturday and Sunday, when he will go shopping.

“The recognition, and all of this weekend is for him,” Puig said.

Tonight, you’ll probably see many cars driving around town during “Cruise Night.” Car show participants will meet up at Sames Motor Co. and drive to different points of the city, ending at Rudy’s BBQ. The ride begins at 6 p.m.

“He (Daniel) is going to join us for the ‘Cruise Night,’” said Puig, who owns several vintage cars, including a 1932 Buick Roadmaster, a 1962 Corvette, a 1961 Ford Econoline Pickup and a 1968 Toyota SJ-40 Landcruiser.

At the arena Sunday, local bands will provide live music, including Liquid Blue Band, Everest and La Experiencia. There will also be a Zumba dancing performance, and of course, food and beverage booths.

The event takes place by the south entrance to the Laredo Energy Arena, be-

ginning at 7 a.m., when car show participants are asked to park their cars.

Registration is $25 per vehicle, and participants will also be part of various raffles and door prizes.

Admission is free.

(Emilio Rábago III may be reached at 728-2564 or erabago@lmtonline.com)

SATURDAY, MAY 21, 2011

COMING UP Intocable to headline Mesquite Fest The Mesquite Fest 2011, an outdoor concert that is about to be announced, will feature music by Zapata’s Intocable and the Eli Young Band.

The festival, set for Saturday, July 2, at the Laredo International Fair and Exposition Grounds, will feature country and Tejano music, making it quite the unique event.

Local acts, which have yet to be announced, will open up. Eight non-profit organizations will be allowed to raise funds by setting up food and beverage booths.

Presale tickets will be $15 and doors will open at 5 p.m.

tracks features a Puerto Rican legend, guitarist Jose Feliciano. The track, titled “Me Gusta Su Hija,” is a duet with Feliciano, and is a conversation with a potential mother-in-law, expressing deep love for a girl. Musically, it’s a stark contrast to the bass-heavy reggeaton songs. In fact, it features four violinists.

Farruko, relatively unknown at this point, crosses over to some bachata.

He’ll be here on Thursday, May 26. The concert will also have local acts such as Triple S, Pekaz and JeyP R-20. It starts at 8:30 p.m.

Tickets are $25 presale and $30 at the door.

Caesar’s Reception Hall is located at 5430 Riverside, on the city’s west side.

Puerto Rico’s Farruko in Laredo concert

Duelo, La Firma at Papagallos

For all the Latin music fans, Caesar’s Reception Hall and Oro Promotions are bringing one of Puerto Rico’s up-and-coming artists to the Gateway City.

Farruko, who has worked with major artists in the reggeaton genre, will perform in Laredo next Thursday.

Farruko is known for tracks such as “Tráeme a Tu Amiga,” which is supported by Julio Voltio and Arcangel.

He’s also worked with Don Omar and Baby Rasta on a remix for “Te Iré a Buscar,” “Cositas Raras,” with Ñengo is another popular reggeaton track, as well as “Hoy.” One of his newest

Roma’s mega popular norteño group Duelo will be in town next weekend.

Along with La Firma, Duelo, led by singer-songwriter Ivan Treviño, will perform at Papagallos USA. Duelo is known for hit songs such as “Amiga Soledad,” “Insomnio,” “Bienvenido El Amor,” “El Amor No Acaba” and “Un Minuto Más.” Most of Duelo’s repertoire is aimed at the lovebirds, or to those who have lost relationships.

The concert is set for May 28 at 9 p.m.

Papagallos is at 5920 San Bernardo Ave. — The Zapata Times

SÁBADO 21 DE MAYO DE 2011

Agenda en Breve SÁBADO 21 DE MAYO LAREDO — Lily Hachar Dance Studio presenta ‘The Phantom of the Opera” a las 6 p.m. en el Laredo Civic Center. Informes al (956) 791-9353.

LAREDO — A partir de las 9 p.m. de hoy es el Metal Fest en Sky Club, 301 Market. No Cover. Participarán las bandas: Toxom de México; y de Laredo, Reborn, Division Black Noise, Requiem For Redemption, SikMind.

McALLEN — La obra de Mando Alvarado “Basilica”, dirigida por Michael Ray Escamilla, se presenta a las 2 p.m. y 7:30 p.m. en el STC’s Cooper Center for Communication Arts, 3201 West Pecan Blvd. Costo: 12 dólares adultos; 10 dólares estudiantes/militares.

DOMINGO 22 DE MAYO LAREDO — Iglesia Cristiana Misericordia invita a Platicas de Vida con el conferencista David Hormachea hoy a las 10 a.m. en el Auditorio de ICM, 4519 E. Del Mar Blvd. Evento gratuito.

LAREDO — En su 27 Aniversio como Iglesia, el Christ Worship Center, Carretera 59 y Casa Blanca Lake Rd., invita a disfrutar un mensaje del Obispo Rick Hawkins de San Antonio y a “The Maranatha Singer”, hoy a las 11 a.m.

Informes al 727-7764.

LAREDO — Se invita a un Car show y música hoy a partir de 9 a.m. a 4 p.m. en Laredo Energy Arena.

LAREDO — TAMIU invita al Recital de Jóvenes Bailarines 2011, en dos presentaciones, a las 3 p.m. y 5 p.m. en el CFPA Recital Hall. Evento gratuito.

McALLEN — La obra de Mando Alvarado “Basilica”, dirigida por Michael Ray Escamilla, se presenta a las 2 p.m. y 7:30 p.m. en el STC’s Cooper Center for Communication Arts, 3201 West Pecan Blvd. Costo: 12 dólares adultos; 10 dólares estudiantes/militares.

MARTES 24 DE MAYO LAREDO — TAMIU presenta el Recital del Programa Juvenil de Pianistas y Cantantes a partir de las 7:30 p.m. en el CFPA Recital Hall. Evento gratuito.

MIÉRCOLES 25 DE MAYO LAREDO — El Servicio de Extensión Texas AgriLife patrocina un Curso de Recertificación de Aplicador de Pesticida de 8:30 a.m. a 3 p.m. en Edificio de Agricultura del Condado de Webb, ubicado en 7209 E. Saunders Street.

NUEVO LAREDO — Dentro del Círculo de Lectores de Mayo a “Homenaje a Gonzalo Rojas, a un mes de su fallecimiento” a las 6 p.m. en Estación Palabra.

JUEVES 26 DE MAYO LAREDO — Farruko en concierto hoy a las 8:30 p.m. en Caesar’s Reception.

NUEVO LAREDO — “Jueves de Teatro” presenta la obra Más Pequeños que el Guggenheim hoy a las 8 p.m. en el Teatro Lucio Blanco en Casa de la Cultura, Lincoln y Chimalpopoca, Col. Viveros.

VIERNES 27 DE MAYO LAREDO — Laredo Heat Soccer Club recibe a Rio Grande Valley Grandes a las 8 p.m. en el Estadio de Texas A&M International University.

LAREDO — Kevin Fowler, Roger Creager y Southern Scarred en concierto hoy a las 9 p.m. en Casa Blanca Ballroom.

Zfrontera

PÁGINA 7A

ATRAPAN A PRESUNTO HOMICIDA; SEMANA VIOLENTA EN TAMAULIPAS

Avance en investigación TIEMPO DE ZAPATA

Un hombre vinculado a la muerte del ex presidente municipal de Hidalgo, Coahuila, fue detenido el jueves.

La Procuraduría General de Justicia del Estado informó en comunicado de prensa que, “como resultado de las investigaciones realizadas por personal ministerial adscrito en Nuevo Laredo, se logró la detención de Jonathan Ruiz Delgado “El Chino” quien aceptó haber privado de la vida en los primeros días del mes de mayo, a Fernando Duarte Flores”.

Delgado fue puesto a disposición del Juzgado Tercero de Primera Instancia del Ramo Penal por los delitos de Secuestro, Homicidio Calificado, Robo de Vehículo y Violación

de las Leyes sobre Inhumaciones y Exhumaciones, explica el comunicado dado a conocer por el Gobierno de Tamaulipas.

Con la detención de “El Chino”, ahora la Fiscalía atiende la petición de los familiares de Duarte para hacer la entrega del cuerpo, una vez que se realicen las pruebas y se cumplan los requisitos legales.

La PGJ no destacó que haya más personas involucradas en el homicidio de Duarte.

Enfrentamientos La Associated Press reportó que soldados mexicanos incautaron un cargamento de armas después de sostener un tiroteo con sicarios de un cártel de las drogas que huían

en una caravana de 17 vehículos, informó el jueves el ejército.

Según la Secretaría de la Defensa señaló que tres presuntos sicarios murieron y otros tres fueron capturados en el tiroteo del miércoles.

El decomiso fue de 83 fusiles de asalto y escopetas, cinco lanzadores de granadas y más de 18.000 municiones útiles, granadas de mano, 18 pistolas y ocho kilos de marihuana.

En imágenes dadas a conocer por SeDeNa se observan artículos con las iniciales del Cartel del Golfo (CDG), grupo que opera en Matamoros.

En otros hechos durante la semana, el 16 de mayo, cinco presuntos narcotraficantes murieron en un enfrentamiento armado con una patrulla militar cuando ésta repelió un ataque en San Fernando, infor-

mó la Secretaría de Defensa, según reporte de la Associated Press.

AP agregó que el ejército dijo que se hallaron los cadáveres de 183 personas en fosas que fueron descubiertas en abril.

La SeDeNa agregó que incautaron cuatro fusiles en el mismo lugar del enfrentamiento.

En Nuevo Laredo, poco después de la 1 a.m. del jueves fue encontrado el cuerpo de una persona no identificada y que presentaba un tiro en la cabeza.

El hombre fue dejado a los pies del monumento a Cristóbal Colón y junto a él un mensaje.

Un portavoz federal, quien solicitó el anonimato, dijo que se trataba de un militar, quien sufrió agresiones físicas y un disparo en la frente.

MIGUEL ALEMÁN

RELIGIÓN

Restauran puente antigüo

Pastoral nacional ora por la paz

ASSOCIATED PRESS

RIO GRANDE CITY — Autoridades de Texas y México decidieron esta semana restaurar por etapas el puente colgante internacional Miguel Alemán-Roma, de 83 años de antigüedad, que está sobre el río Bravo, mientras reciben más financiamiento.

El puente enlaza a Ro-

Inversión total será de 3 millones de dólares. ma con Ciudad Miguel Alemán y es el único paso entre ambas localidades.

Sin embargo, ha estado cerrado durante mucho tiempo al tránsito debido a un deterioro estructural.

Texas, Roma y el condado de Starr están prometiendo 1,5 millones de dólares para las reparaciones iniciales, y el estado de Tamaulipas y Ciudad Miguel Alemán otros 1,5 millones.

Eso sería suficiente para volver seguro el puente al tránsito peatonal.

El administrador de Roma, Crisanto Salinas, le dijo al diario The Monitor de McAllen que la restauración completa costará unos 7 millones de dólares y que se espera que llegue mayor financiamiento de ambas partes del río fronterizo en el futuro.

CIUDAD MIER

CULTURA INAUGURA SALÓN E TIEMPO DE ZAPATA

sta semana fue inaugurado el Salón del Maestro en la Casa de la Cultura de Ciudad Mier, y fueron impartidos dos talleres organizados por la dependencia.

El Salón del Maestro fue inaugurado el 17 de mayo por el Presidente Municipal Alberto González Peña y la Presidenta del Sistema DIF-Municipal, SanJuanita García de González.

Aunque servirá para una diversidad de eventos o talleres, su objetivo principal es ir formando una galería con fotografías de maestros locales.

“Es justo rendir homenaje a quien dedicó parte de su vida a formar conciencias, a formar individuos con deseos de superación, a formar seres humanos con valores”, dijo González. “Los maestros son quienes ofrece las herramientas adecuadas para enfrentar los retos que la vida ofrece, pues cada día tiene en sus manos la oportunidad de inyectar vida a otras vidas”.

Por otra parte la Directora de Turismo y Cultura Municipal, Carmen Alicia Guerra Ríos, sostuvo que los maestros merecen el recuerdo, reconocimiento y cariño.

“Ellos son los que nos han educado, nos han impulsado a ser mejores personas, que han dejado huella positiva en nuestras vidas y por eso siguen presentes en nosotros mismos”, dijo Guerra.

Por otra parte, en el transcurso del mismo 17 de mayo, Mercedes Varela, de Reynosa, impartió un Taller de Lectura en el Salón Presidentes de la Casa de la Cultura.

“Fue un interesante taller ya que los que asistieron tuvieron la oportunidad de intercambiar opiniones sobre nuestro pueblo”, dijo Guerra.

Durante el taller, Varela habló acerca del pasado o la historia de Ciudad Mier, su presente y futuro que se desea.

González explicó que pese a los acontecimientos que “amargamente nos ha tocado vivir, estos ya concluyeron y se necesita del apoyo de las personas en general, de los buenos comentarios, de pensar positivamente sin decaer el ánimo para ir poco a poco levantando nuestro pueblito”.

Durante el taller se conformaron equipos y se captaron comentarios los cuales fueron anotados en minuta que será revisada en una sesión el mes entrante.

“Cada equipo integrará en uno solo sus comentarios, para después hacer uno solo general y así formar un folleto informativo de lo mismo, y luego un libro basado en cada una de las historias contadas”, explicó Varela.

Fotos de cortesía | Carmen Alicia Guerra Ríos

El Presidente Municipal de Ciudad Mier, Alberto González Peña y la Presidenta del Sistema DIF-Municipal, SanJuanita García de González al inaugurar el Salón del Maestro en la Casa de la Cultura, el 17 de mayo.

Mario Treviño, del Instituto Tamaulipeco para la Cultura y las Artes, con sede en Reynosa, impartió una conferencia a estudiantes del COBAT No. 11 dentro del Taller de Animación Lectora organizado por la Casa de la Cultura.

El taller es impartido el segundo martes de cada mes.

Finalmente, se llevó a cabo un Taller de Animación Lectora organizado por la Casa de la Cultura.

Mario Treviño, del Instituto Tamaulipeco para la Cultura y las

Artes, con sede en Reynosa, impartió una conferencia a estudiantes del COBAT No. 11.

“Se les motiva a practicar la lectura”, dijo Treviño. “Les recomiendo libros que les pudieran interesar debido a su edad”.

POR MIGUEL TIMOSHENKOV TIEMPO DE ZAPATA

NUEVO LAREDO — La violencia que se ha sentido en varias ciudades del país ha afectado a la comunidad en general y de igual forma a la Iglesia, que actualmente sufre una carencia de vocaciones.

El tema fue tratado durante la Asamblea Nacional de Pastoral Vocacional llevada a cabo del 16 al 20 de mayo en esta ciudad con la participación de 156 asambleístas religiosos y diocesanos de las diversas congregaciones de México.

El objetivo fue conocer directrices y uniformar las pastorales vocacionales en los diferentes puntos de la República Mexicana.

“Estamos aquí porque la iglesia mexicana enfrenta la violencia”, dijo la misionera Yamilet Bolaños.

“No toda la gente de la frontera se encuentra involucrada en violencia. Hay más personas buenas que buscan y oran por la paz”.

La participación de las diferentes representaciones de las Diócesis del país busca promover las vocaciones a la vida sacerdotal y religiosa, ya que enfrentan déficit de aspirantes.

Los diocesanos, sacerdotes y religiosas han estado recorriendo la ciudad, parroquias y donde se genera la actividad cultural para establecer relaciones con la comunidad y promover la vocación sacerdotal.

La religiosa Susana Wong García, de la Diócesis de Guadalajara, dijo que existe una visión diferente del trabajo vocacional que se da en los diferentes puntos del país.

“Venimos solidarizados a petición de la conferencia de obispos que desean que la vida regrese a los pueblos mexicanos y que la iglesia no continúe siendo víctima de las acciones que afectan su integridad”, dijo Wong. “Queremos unirnos con nuestros hermanos fronterizos animando el trabajo profesional en la Diócesis de Nuevo Laredo”.

Wong coincidió con Bolaños que viajar a la frontera les permite solidarizarse con un pueblo que ha vivido momentos amargos con la violencia que se ha generado en los últimos tiempos.

Durante la semana la Asamblea además realizó el plan nacional de vocación profesional para coordinar las congregaciones y diocesanos en la próxima asamblea que se celebrará en Toluca.

(Localice a Miguel Timoshenkov en el 728 2583 o en mramirez@lmtonline.com)

S

8A THE ZAPATA TIMES

SATURDAY, MAY 21, 2011

Solon: Campus guns bill may be dead

By JIM VERTUNO ASSOCIATED PRESS

AUSTIN — A bill allowing concealed handgun license holders to carry their weapons into Texas public university classrooms appears dead as lawmakers prepare to enter their final week of the session.

The Senate author of the measure on Friday accused Republican House Speaker Joe Straus of preventing a vote on a bill that has the support of a large majority of the Legislature.

“It’s a fairly open secret that the speaker doesn’t like the bill,” said Sen. Jeff Wentworth, R-San Antonio.

The measure had already passed the Senate and more than 80 lawmakers in the 150-member House had signed on in support. But the House version of the bill has never been brought for a vote and the Senate version was knocked down without a vote on a parliamentary maneuver on Thursday.

Denying a vote on a bill with overwhelming lawmaker support is a “perversion of representative democracy,” Wentworth said.

The move to block the vote was brought by Democrats.

“

It’s a fairly open secret that the speaker doesn’t like the bill.”

SEN. JEFF WENTWORTH, R-SAN ANTONIO

The Senate had put the guns measure in a bill dealing with budget matters.

House Democrats objected, saying that violated rules banning bills about more than one subject. The House parliamentarian agreed and the bill was sent back to the Senate to strip out the guns measure.

Wentworth said he believes Straus pressured the parliamentarian to make the ruling.

Straus said the House was following its rules.

“Jeff should know the rules better,” Straus said in a statement. “As a former House member, I’m sure he is aware of how we enforce the two-subject rule against Senate bills.”

Standing outside the House chamber, Straus chuckled and said, “It’s not difficult to make Senator Wentworth angry.”

Wentworth said he’ll keep trying to pass the bill before the session ends

Proposed voting map gets OKd

By WILL WEISSERT ASSOCIATED PRESS

AUSTIN — The Texas House on Friday approved a new map drawn by the Senate for its 31 voting districts, dismissing impassioned pleas from outnumbered Democrats who said the plan is unfair to minority voters.

Final passage is expected this weekend, allowing both the House and Senate to pass final versions of each other’s new district maps simultaneously. It would be the first time they’ve done so since 1991, when lawmakers symbolically threw open the doors leading into the rotunda separating both chambers to ensure sure they did it at the same time.

Key changes in the Senate map targets Democrats Wendy Davis of Fort Worth and Judith Zaffirini of Laredo. The House voted to endorse it 92-48.

The Legislature draws new maps every 10 years, following the release of updated census information.

The procedure typically becomes a partisan fight and personal battle between incumbent lawmakers trying to hold onto their districts and avoid being placed into a voting area dominated by the rival party. Republicans hold a 19-12 majority in the Senate and a 101-49 edge in the House.

This year’s battle has been especially bitter, given the rapid growth of the Hispanic and black population in Texas that created potential electoral threats for some members of the conservative-dominated state legislature.

Republican Rep. Burt Solomons, who presented the Senate’s proposed map in the House, said he understood it would anger some of his colleagues. He said representatives should approve the map as a courtesy to the Senate, and they should expect senators to return the favor and approve the House’s version of its plan to redraw its voting districts.

Democrats raised five amendments to tweak some or all of the proposed Senate voting districts.

They said their proposed changed would undo the Senate’s attempts to protect its incumbents by splitting up minority voting blocs.

The full House voted to table each amendment. The debate was recorded in a written record of Friday’s session and will likely be used as evidence in lawsuits liberal groups have already begun filing to challenge the proposed maps.

“I’m sure some of these arguments you’ve heard to-

day are going to be heard again at the courthouse,” Solomons said, “and that’s where they should be decided.”

In arguing for an ultimately unsuccessful amendment, Rep. Trey Martinez Fischer, a San Antonio Democrat, said minorities now make up more than half of Texas’ voting age population.

May 30. But rules limiting bills at this point and the rush to pass others leave him little time.

Wentworth said his chances of reviving it are “pretty bleak.”

That’s certainly not how it looked in January when the session began and lawmakers were lining up to support the bill.

Supporters said they wanted college students and teachers to defend themselves in case someone starts shooting. They often pointed to the 2007

mass shooting at Virginia Tech where a gunman killed 32 people.

Opponents, including several survivors of the Virginia Tech shootings, argued that allowing concealed handguns would

lead to more campus violence and suicides. The bill also has been opposed by higher education officials.

The bill stalled on its first three votes in the Senate before supporters finally pushed it through.

SATURDAY, MAY 21, 2011

Senate revives citizen bill

By JIM VERTUNO ASSOCIATED PRESS

AUSTIN — A bill that would allow Texas law enforcement officers to question people they detain about their citizenship status was revived Friday in the state Senate.

Hispanic lawmakers promise an emotional fight to stop it before the end of the legislative session.

The so-called “sanctuary cities” bill revived by the Senate Transportation and Homeland Security Committee would prohibit local governments and police agencies from adopting policies that ban officers from asking people they detain about whether they are in the country legally.

Hispanic senators say they worry police will use the law to harass Latinos.

The 5-3 vote to send the bill to the full Senate broke along party lines with every Republican voting in favor. Republican Gov. Rick Perry had declared the sanctuary cities issue one of his “emergency” items at the beginning of the session, urging lawmakers to make it one of their top priorities.

The legislative session ends May 30.

The GOP-controlled House passed the bill earlier this month after a bitter debate in that chamber, and Hispanic Democrats in the Senate have promised a similar fight if the bill comes up for a vote.

Democrats predicted they have enough support to prevent a vote by the full Senate.

Senate rules generally require 21 of the 31 senators to vote to bring a bill up for debate. Republicans hold a 19-12 majority, leaving them two votes shy of pushing aside Democrats on key issues..

“It’s like a chess game,” said Sen. Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa, DMcAllen. “I’m pretty confident we have the votes to block it.”

Supporters say the measure is needed to help police stop crimes committed by illegal immigrants.

Sen. Tommy Williams, chairman of the Transportation and Homeland Security Committee, said police should have all the tools they need to fight crime and that the bill will prevent a patchwork of different rules among communities.

Opponents, including many police departments, have argued it will ostracize local immigrant communities and make them afraid to report crimes.

None of Texas’ major cities claim to be sanctuary cities, and opponents argue it is irresponsible to make public policy to deal with a perception rather than a reality.

Sen. Margio Gallegos, D-Houston, has said he believes the bill is racially motivated and similar to harassment of African-Americans during the Jim Crow Era.

THE ZAPATA TIMES 9A

Autopsy aims to solve mystery

By EVA VERGARA AND MICHAEL WARREN ASSOCIATED PRESS

SANTIAGO, Chile — Nearly 38 years after President Salvador Allende died in a military coup and became a Cold War martyr of the international left, his body is being exhumed Monday in an exercise that even now is fraught with political overtones.

The hope is that forensics can solve an enduring mystery: whether Chile’s socialist leader committed suicide or was murdered by the troops who mounted Gen. Augusto Pinochet’s ferocious attack on the presidential palace.

With the Allende family’s blessing, Judge Mario Carroza has convened a panel of top forensic experts, seven Chileans and five foreigners. He also seeks evidence that could support charges of crimes against humanity in the killing of hundreds of people who were tortured and disappeared in the days after the Sept. 11, 1973 coup, including many who shared Allende’s last stand.

“This will be tremendously important, because with this it will be possible to dispel any doubts or speculation,” Sen. Isabel Allende said recently as she went to court to ask for her father’s autopsy.

Questions surfaced almost immediately after the assault on the palace, partly because Pinochet’s military botched the initial investigation and then covered up or staged details of Allende’s death as it set out to expunge him from memory.

For those who saw Allende as the world’s best hope or most serious threat of revolutionary change, just how he died matters deeply. Was it suicide by AK-47 assault rifle, as maintained by the only man claiming to have witnessed that moment? Or did Allende go down fighting, as Cuba’s Fidel Castro claimed? Might his body have been shredded by soldiers’ bullets, as two Latin

File photo by AP

In this 1971 photo, President Salvador Allende waves to supporters in Chile.

Chilean supreme court judge Mario Carroza ordered the exhumation Friday of Allende’s body on May 23 to perform an autopsy in order to determine the cause of death. Allende allegedly committed suicide as Pinochet’s troops seized the presidential palace in 1973.

American Nobel literature laureates, Pablo Neruda and Gabriel Garcia Marquez, have written?

Dr. Patricio Guijon, a member of Allende’s medical team, reaffirmed his account of suicide Tuesday in an Associated Press interview, saying he still vividly recalled the instant when he saw 65-year-old Allende blow his head open.

By that point, the bombardment of the palace had gone on for hours, the noise was deafening, machine gun fire was coming down from all sides and rockets fired by fighter jets were

pulverizing the 18th century palace walls. Guijon said he carefully moved the weapon from between Allende’s legs and set it on a nearby chair.

“I sat down by his side. People find this hard to believe, but I must have been there for 15 or 20 minutes, alone, in the Hall of Independence, with the president’s corpse ... sitting, scared to death and having no idea what would happen,” he said.

Guijon supports the military’s claim that Allende killed himself with the AK-47 Castro had given him, and said no other bullets were fired after soldiers arrived

and eventually carried off the body.

Arrested and sent to a remote penal colony for three months, Guijon emerged a pariah, suspected of being either an Allende sympathizer or a Pinochet apologist.

Meanwhile, socialists worldwide mourned Allende’s death and blamed the U.S. for plotting to ruin their best model of peaceful revolutionary change.

“Young people all over the continent believed this (change) was possible and were working on this day in, day out in universities and factories. There were hundreds of thousands and maybe millions of activists who were trying to bring this about. That was what was defeated in Allende more than anything else — Allende was the highwater mark of the revolutionary idea in Latin America,” said John Dinges, who investigated Pinochet for his book “The Condor Years.”

Allende’s election in 1970 had been hailed by the left as proof that socialism and democracy could go together. But the Cold War was still at its height, and wealthy elites in the developing world had a visceral fear of communist takeovers.

With Cuba’s revolution just a decade old, and Vietnam threatening to fall to communism as well, U.S. President Richard Nixon set the stage for Pinochet’s coup with a covert campaign to wreck Chile’s economy.

According to his own words in documents declassified years later, Nixon wanted to show the world that Allende was a failure.

Suicide served this rhetoric well, by suggesting that Pinochet and his covert U.S. supporters weren’t responsible, and that by extension, Allende’s socialist experiment also failed of its own accord.

Then again, Allende clearly intended to avoid being taken prisoner, a humiliation he felt would dishonor the presidency, Dinges said.

MEXICO Continued from Page 1A aircraft.

Officials requested ground support. Patrol soldiers went out for the call for help, but the gunmen shot at them, too.

As some vehicles attempted to speed away, soldiers positioned and quickly set up a perimeter to capture the gunmen.

Though some escaped, they left behind the vehicles with weaponry inside. The confrontation killed three men and yielded three arrests. Soldiers seized 83 assault riffles, 18 handguns, five grenade launchers, a rocket launcher, 39 grenades, 315 ammo clips, 18,274 rounds of ammo, 17 vehicles and 18 pounds of marijuana.

Mexico’s navy kept busy, too.

More gunmen On Wednesday, SEMAR officials announced they fought gunmen on two different occasions on Ciudad Victoria High-

way leading to the southern Tamaulipas town of Soto La Marina. A gun confrontation was reported near kilometer marker 59 near Villa de Casas. SEMAR officials say two sport utility vehicles boarded by gunmen had a roadblock set up to extort traveling motorists. When the gunmen saw the marines, they opened fire on them. Meanwhile, one vehicle sped away to Soto La Marina.

Eventually, the gunmen ditched the remaining vehicle and absconded in the brush. Marines caught up with the fleeing vehicle, causing another gunbattle to break out. Gunmen wounded three marines who suffered non-life threatening injuries. Officials detained a juvenile. He told federal authorities he belonged to the Gulf Cartel. Gunmen had teams of three vehicles, with four people each. Their mission was to patrol the towns of Aldama and Soto La Marina.

Soldiers seized two vehicles, eight assault rifles, four grenades, 2,206 rounds of ammo, 54 ammo clips and small amounts of cocaine and marijuana.

San Fernando, a town marked by the killing of hundreds of immigrants and the discovery of narcofosas, was the scene for another gunbattle. On Monday, soldiers assigned to that area were attacked with gunfire at about 9:15 p.m. The clash left five alleged ambushers dead. Soldiers recovered four assault riffles, 638 rounds of ammo, 24 ammo clips, one vehicle and a handgun.

PGR officials are currently investigating the finding of 2.34 tons of marijuana and a few arms, officials announced Monday. The discovery of the pot occurred over the weekend. Soldiers targeting illegal activity by patrolling by air and ground near Los Guerra, a municipality of Miguel Alemán, noticed several bundles of marijuana within a

brushy area. Officials counted 389 bundles, with an approximate weight of 2.34 tons of marijuana. Soldiers also found two AR-15s, 161 rounds ammo and six live magazines.

On May 13, two phone company workers ran for help when they spotted marines patrolling kilometer marker 146 in Ciudad Mier. The victims told soldiers a group of armed men blocked the highway. Three gunmen got out of a vehicle and told the men — who numbered four at the time — to stop, the men said. Officials say the four workers tried to escape, fearful they could have been kidnapped; however, two of them were apprehended and two of them contacted the marines.

Marines inspected the area and spotted two men with injuries. The workers told marines members of organized crime kidnapped them but let them go when they noticed the marines’ presence.

10A THE ZAPATA TIMES

SATURDAY, MAY 21, 2011

FISHING Continued from Page 1A man’s paradise,” said Zapata Chamber of Commerce executive director Paco Mendoza.

“It’s hard to compete with New York State” because of the different fishing environment in that region, Mendoza continued. Currently, Waddington and Roscoe hold the first and the second spot on the leaderboard, respectively.

Lots of voting Mendoza has been at the forefront of facilitating voter output. The first time voting at www.wfnfishingtownusa.com, one must confirm his or her email, Mendoza explained.

“If they validate the first time, they can email (the Zapata County Chamber of Commerce) to let them know” and once consent is given, a chamber member will continue to vote on that person’s behalf, said Mendoza. One person can vote up to four times a day for each valid email address he or she possesses.

The main focus seems to be shedding a positive light on Falcon Lake, which locals, including Mendoza, have been enjoying for many years.

“We’ve had some hard times,” Mendoza said. “(But) I’ve held other jobs, and I kept coming back.

We love it here.”

The grand prize winner will be awarded $25,000 for

a fishing-related cause in the community, 10 WaveSpin Reels and an official check presentation and media event in the winning town. Furthermore, the winner will be featured on WFN and WFN HD, garnering a lot publicity for the town.

If Zapata wins the award for Ultimate Fishing Town U.S.A., the cash prize would be used for promotion purposes with the permission of WFN. Zapata already hosts a number of fishing-friendly accommodations, one of the latest being the newlyrenovated Lakeview Inn and Suites, which also has Aqua Restaurant and Bar. The hotel has a boat ramp and ski rentals, which are ideal for fishermen inter-

BUDGET Continued from Page 1A ested in staying the weekend to take advantage of Falcon Lake’s bounty. “(Voting) only takes a few seconds,” said Mendoza. “We (the Chamber of Commerce) are a business for businesses,” he continued, emphasizing how important it is to promote Zapata’s growth and prosperity.

To cast votes for Zapata as Ultimate Fishing Town, one only has to visit www.wfnfishingtown.com.

Once the email address is confirmed, one can send an email to customercare@zapatachamber.com to have a member continue voting with the address.

(Erica Matos may be reached at ematos@lmtonline.com or 728-2567.)

SAN YGNACIO Continued from Page 1A Zapata County sheriff ’s deputies rode on their units and showcased their recently acquired surveillance tactical towers and their crime scene unit truck.

Several families came out of their homes when they heard the loud sirens the deputies sounded. San Ignacio resident Kimberly Gonzalez and several relatives ran outside her house in the 100 block of Santa Maria Avenue. She had witnessed the annual parade for the last 10 years. “(Each year) on Sunday we go and celebrate at the plaza. It’s pretty nice,” she said. “Every year they add more and more things. It’s getting better and better.”

Jose Garcia lives in the vicinity of Mina and Morales Streets. He, too, was outside his house with his wife and sons watching the parade go by.

Garcia said ever since he was a child, he looked forward to the celebration.

“The whole town gets involved,” Garcia pointed out. “If you want to, you can put your kids in the back of the truck and participate.”

The convoy ended its

route at the Plaza Blass Maria Uribe. Throughout the day, families arrived at the plaza and enjoyed indulging their different cravings, such as the beef or the chicken fajita tacos and mole tacos.

Ladies club members Maria Eva Uribe Ramirez and Cynthia Villarreal said San Ignacio captures the essence of two nations.

“We’re proud of our culture and our heritage. We come, really, from Mexico.

Our ancestors were born in Mexico,” Uribe Ramirez said.

Villarreal said people who have left the town never forget their roots and return to visit. San Ignacio’s take pride in their unique history.

“We happen to have the best of both worlds. We have the richness of our traditions and our customs, our language,” Villarreal said. “We also acclimated ourselves to the best of the (Anglo-American) world.”

Officials also took time to honor the lives of Immigration and Customs Enforcement Special Agent Jaime J. Zapata, the agent gunned down by Zetas in Mexico, and Pfc. Ira Benja-

min “Ben” Laningham IV, the young Zapatan who died in Afghanistan.

County Judge Joe Rathmell labeled Zapata and Laningham as “our local heroes.”

“We continue to make sure that their efforts are not forgotten,” Rathmell said. “We continue to be appreciative of what (the families’) sons did for our county and our nation.”

Club officials presented a plaque to Zapata’s parents, Amador and Mary Zapata, and the grandparents of “Ben” Laningham, Lauro and Olinda Guerra.

“Our son is definitely a hero. We’re very proud and honored that the people are not forgetting him,” said Mary, Zapata’s mother.

She added that her son stood for what is right against crime. “Unfortunately, he paid the ultimate sacrifice for it,” she said.

“We miss our son dearly.

We loved him dearly. We appreciate the community, the cities — Brownsville, Zapata, Laredo, Washington — everybody for remembering Jaime and not forgetting what he stood for,” his mother said.

Amador, his father, hopes

authorities address “this disease” of drugs and crime that has grown up over the last few years. The Zapatas want to see more action by the Mexican government in the battle against organized crime.

“Mexico owes their people and Jaime justice,” Mary said.

For the Guerras, their grandson’s memory still lives on.

“We’re very proud of him. We thank the community of Zapata and the community of San Ignacio for honoring him,” his grandmother Olinda said.

She recalled that Laningham loved to be together with family when having cookouts. Relatives recall his passion for wanting to serve his country.

The 82nd Legislature honored Laningham with a House Concurrent Resolution, detailing what he did for his country and the things he enjoyed doing.

But overall, relatives remember his bright smiling face.

“He was always happy,” Olinda said.

(César G. Rodriguez may be reached at 728-2568 or cesar@lmtonline.com)

lege students while keeping substantial revenue in reserves and avoiding any new taxes,” Straus said.

Meanwhile, the Senate approved legislation that reworks public school funding formulas and cuts funding for schools around 6 percent.

The vote Friday night came after House and Senate negotiators announced an agreement on a two-year state budget.

The Senate’s chief budget writer has repeatedly said the bill is essential to making the agreement work.

The legislation creates a formula that distributes fewer dollars per student in order to deal with a multibillion dollar revenue shortfall. It would also phase out the state’s target revenue system by 2017.

The two sides had been deadlocked on a revenue measure that budget writers said was vital to passing a balanced budget. The so-called fiscal matters bill had stalled in the House after lawmakers pre-filed hundreds of contentious amendments that endangered the bill’s passage.

The House moved forward on the measure late Friday after many of the amendments were withdrawn.

A day earlier, budget leaders and aides said they had agreed on funding levels for public school operations and come closer on spending for higher education, one of the last sticking points.

Education groups have warned the proposed

The two sides had been deadlocked on a revenue measure that budget writers said was vital to passing a balanced budget.

House cuts could lead to tens of thousands of job losses for public school workers, including teachers.

“It’s easy to get bogged down in the political process and forget that there are real children and families who are affected by our decisions,” Rep. Eddie Rodriguez, an Austin Democrat, said to his colleagues as he introduced an eightyear-old with cerebral palsy who depends on Medicaid funding for therapies that allow him to sit up, talk and walk without being institutionalized.

“I feel strongly that we need to look the Texans who are affected by the budget in the eye.”

SATURDAY, MAY 21, 2011

ON THE WEB: THEZAPATATIMES.COM

Sports&Outdoors WESTERN CONFERENCE FINALS

CLASS 3A ALL-STATE TRACK

More honors Zapata’s Garcia earns all-state

By CLARA SANDOVAL THE ZAPATA TIMES

T

Photo by Mike Stone | AP

Oklahoma City Thunder forward Nick Collison (4) and Dallas Mavericks forward Dirk Nowitzki (41) reach for the rebound during the second half of Game 2 Thursday in Dallas. The Thunder won 106100.

Nowitzki, Mavs having to adjust

By JEFF LATZKE ASSOCIATED PRESS

DALLAS — Dirk Nowitzki knew his marvelous Game 1 wouldn’t mean much if the Dallas Mavericks couldn’t follow it up with another victory in Game 2.

Nowitzki followed his NBA playoff-high 48-point performance by scoring 29 points— including 16 in the fourth quarter — but the Mavericks lost to the Thunder 106-100 to even the series at a win apiece heading into Game 3 tonight in Oklahoma City.

“Usually if you’re the road team and you start in a tough building, usually you go for a split or you try to win one. That’s what they did, so they have the momentum,” Nowitzki said.

“So, we’ve got to go up there in a tough environment, in a very loud building and execute and play

Mavs basketball and get back to getting some stops like we did in the first two series, and then I’ll like our chances.”

Nowitzki scored all but eight of Dallas’ points in the final period, hitting seven of 10 shots, but it wasn’t enough to rally the Mavericks down the stretch.

Nowitzki had just 13 points on 3-for-7 shooting after going scoreless in the third quarter. By contrast, he had 17 points and matched an NBA postseason record by hitting all 13 of his free throws in the third quarter two nights earlier.

In Game 1, Dallas headed into the fourth with an 11-point lead and held off a late charge from Oklahoma City.

In the rematch, the Thunder’s late push put the game away in their fa-

See MAVS PAGE 2B

NFL

Lockout affecting time for NFL

By BARRY WILNER ASSOCIATED PRESS

NEW YORK — When Bill Belichick mentions condensing the Patriots’ playbook because of lost workouts, people notice. If a veteran team with a superstar quarterback might do so, what is everyone else planning?

As the lockout approaches its 10th week, with a conclusion not likely in sight as the owners and players haggle in court, minicamps and offseason workouts at team facilities are being canceled. That’s essential time gone for teams making coaching changes or bringing in new talent at key positions.

It’s time that can’t be replaced no matter how jampacked teams’ training schedules become once there is a labor settlement.

“Do you think Mark Sanchez could have gotten

Photo by Winslow Townson | AP

In this Sept. 26, 2010 file photo, New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick, right, and quarterback Tom Brady look on during the second in half against the Buffalo Bills. us to two straight AFC championship games without those (meetings and practices)?” Jets fullback Tony Richardson said.

See NFL PAGE 2B

Photo by Clara Sandoval | The Zapata Times

he postseason accolades continue to pour in for Zapata senior Marlena Garcia as she added another distinction this week to an already stellar high school career.

Garcia was recently voted to the Texas Girls Coaches Association Class 3A All-State track team by coaches across the state.

“First of all, it’s very prestigious, since it’s voted upon by coaches throughout the state, not just in our area,” Zapata long distance track coach Mike Villarreal said.

“That means she has to have caught their eye and, ultimately, their respect.

“She was a two time all state cross country runner; now adding the track all-state honor is awesome.”

Garcia is in an elite group that only includes 16 3A runners.

“Given all the events and nominees, it is truly an honor to have an athlete thought of so high by coaches from around the state,” Villarreal said.

Garcia finished her high school career at the state track meet last week

Zapata senior Marlena Garcia has been named to the 3A all-state track and field team.

See GARCIA PAGE 2B

U.S. tennis faces drought

By HOWARD FENDRICH ASSOCIATED PRESS

PARIS — Andy Roddick, understandably, is rather tired of hearing the question, in one form or another: What’s wrong with U.S. tennis?

When a local reporter raised the subject at a tournament in Rome last week, Roddick replied wryly: “No bigger crisis than Italian tennis.”

A little later, Roddick added: “As far as harping on American tennis, I think we’re kind of a victim of our own success over the years in the sport. If you still stack us up against most countries, we’re coming out ahead.”

Well, yes, that is true.

What’s also true is this: The United States has reached a low point in tennis. Not merely because the country no longer churns out new champions with regularity, but also because it is not really relevant at the top of the game right now.

Earlier this month, for the first time in more than 35 years of computerized rankings, no player from the U.S. appeared in the ATP or WTA top 10.

Plus, the last American man to win a Grand Slam singles title was Roddick, at the 2003 U.S. Open — 29 major tournaments ago.

If, as expected, that drought continues at the French Open, which

Photo by Darron Cummings | AP

In this March 13 file photo, Andy Roddick returns a shot to fellow countryman James Blake during a BNP Paribas Open tournament match in Indian Wells, Calif. Earlier this month, for the first time in more than 35 years of computerized rankings, no player from the U.S. appeared in the ATP or WTA top 10. Plus, the last American man to win a Grand Slam singles title was Roddick. starts Sunday, the gap will equal the longest in history for U.S. men — a 30Slam shutout from 195563.

Roddick himself won’t compete in Paris: He withdrew from the French Open on Thursday night, citing a right shoulder injury. That leaves the tournament without the three most significant active singles players from the United States, because Se-

rena and Venus Williams pulled out earlier.

To Roddick’s point, the Americans’ wait for a male champion at a major is nothing compared to what some others are enduring: Andy Murray has lost three major finals in his bid to become the first British man since 1936 to win a Grand Slam title.

Yet the recent U.S. problems are a stark change for a nation that has pro-

duced players such as Pete Sampras, Andre Agassi, Jim Courier, John McEnroe, Jimmy Connors, Arthur Ashe, Don Budge, Bill Tilden, the Williams sisters, Lindsay Davenport, Tracy Austin, Chris Evert and Billie Jean King, to name only some.

“We’re so used to having champions for the

See TENNIS PAGE 2B

PAGE 2B

Zscores

SATURDAY, MAY 21, 2011

Mavs get dose of humility

By JAIME ARON ASSOCIATED PRESS

DALLAS — Take a sweep of the Lakers, a nineday layoff and a dominant outing by Dirk Nowitzki in Game 1 of the Western Conference finals, and it’s understandable why the Dallas Mavericks may have started thinking too highly of themselves.

Losing Game 2 at home to a team that played four subs nearly the entire fourth quarter should be a strong dose of humility.

“I’m not going to say a loss is ever good, because I don’t ever like to lose. It doesn’t do well for my sleep pattern,” Dallas center Tyson Chandler said Friday.

“But sometimes you need to get hit on the chin and get woke up. Last night, they hit us on the chin.

Hopefully, that woke us up.”

Oklahoma City withstood an early scoring barrage, wiped out an 11-point deficit by halftime then controlled things down the stretch. Instead of being awed by the big stage, the Thunder’s youth, athleticism and perhaps a bit of naivety served them well.

Considering Oklahoma City pulled out Game 2 with All-Star point guard Russell Westbrook spending the last quarter on the bench, it would seem like they have plenty to build on as the series moves to their court for Game 3 tonight.

Provided, that is, that Westbrook is OK with having had to watch.

Although he was agitated immediately after being pulled late in the third quarter, he said all the right things after the game, and continued to try to douse any controversy on Friday.

“My main focus is we got this far because the team is doing well, not if I’m doing good or bad,” Westbrook said.

Photo by Eric Gay | AP

Oklahoma City Thunder forward Kevin Durant, left, and guard Russell Westbrook react to play during the first half of Game 2 against the Dallas Mavericks on Thursday in Dallas.

Asked specifically about coach Scott Brooks opting to stick with backup Eric Maynor, Westbrook said: “He’s the head coach and he makes the decisions on the floor, and he made the best one yesterday.”

Westbrook made 7 of 15 shots in Game 2, up from 3 of 15 in Game 1. And that was in only three quarters.

He said Friday he “thought I could’ve done a better job when I was in there.”

Brooks remained highly complimentary of his starter, calling him “a tremendous player for us.”

“He has improved as much as anybody in this game,” Brooks said.

Yet that tremendous, improving player was on the bench in crunch time of the biggest game since the franchise moved to Oklahoma City, left to watch Kevin Durant, Maynor and reserves James Harden, Nick Collison and Daequan Cook.

“The group was playing good basketball,” Brooks

said. “I felt last night in my heart, in my gut, that that team was deserving to finish up the game.”

Harden is usually among the Thunder’s closers, and he showed why in Game 2.

He scored 10 of his 23 points in the final quarter.

Durant scored 24, down from 40 in the opener, but was still extremely effective.

Oklahoma City has had its way with a Dallas defense that kept the Lakers and Trail Blazers consistently scoring in the 80s, with a high of 96 points.

The Thunder scored 112 in the opener. Taking fewer free throws, they scored “only” 106 in Game 2, but made 55.7 percent of their shots, matching the secondbest anyone’s done against the Mavericks all season.

Dallas coach Rick Carlisle said Oklahoma City also has been more opportunistic over the two games, getting to 23 loose balls and turning them into 32 points. The Mavs have

snagged only 17 and turned them into only 13 points.

Part of it is that the Thunder are younger and more athletic, but part of it is effort and intensity.

“We won Game 1 here not playing great defense and we felt like we could just come out and outscore them and beat them” Chandler said. “Regardless of whether we can or not, that’s not the kind of habits we need to create.”

So, how do they snap out of it?

“By being smarter than them,” he said. “We’re a veteran team. We just have to have a better understanding of what we have to do and accomplish to win a basketball game. ... I just think that we haven’t executed our game plan.

We’ve got to trust that the coaches know what they’re doing when they’re breaking down the film. That’s what they get paid for, and we get paid to execute it.

Now it’s our time to get out and execute it.”

MAVS Continued from Page 1B vor.

“The guy is still tough.

He scored a lot down the stretch when they needed it,” Oklahoma City’s Nick Collison said of Nowitzki.

“But we did enough early to get the win.”

Nowitzki couldn’t reproduce his masterful effort from Game 1, when he hit 36 of the 39 shots he took — including all 24 of his free throws. Since they couldn’t stop him once he had the ball, the Thunder did their best to prevent him from ever touching it — then sent more frequent double-teams on the occasions he did.

“We were trying to make things difficult for him,” Oklahoma City guard James Harden said.

“He’s so tall and it makes it hard to contest, but I think Nick and Serge (Ibaka) did a great job on him tonight.”

Nowitzki finally solved the problem in the fourth

quarter, doing much of his damage from the high post.

“It’s impossible to front there and so basically in the fourth quarter, I still got my catches and tried to make some stuff happen,” Nowitzki said.

Even with his impressive closing charge, Nowitzki played a role in the Mavericks’ demise. He had a shot blocked by Collison, then turned the ball over on the next possession as the Thunder reeled off seven straight points to bump their lead to 102-92 with 3:15 to play.

Then, his run of 39 consecutive free throws came to an end with a key miss that kept Dallas from making it a one-possession game with 36.7 seconds left.

“Tough loss but we feel we’re a good road team. ...

I think we can compete on the road. We’ve just got to be a little sharper than we

were in the first two,” Nowitzki said.

“We said it after Game 1: ‘We’ve got to be better on both ends,’ and we weren’t. We weren’t today, so we didn’t deserve to win.”

Oklahoma City did a much better job of defending Nowitzki without fouling after six defenders were whistled while defending him in the opener.

The big German was 9 for 10 from the foul line Thursday.

Dallas lost for the first time in 18 games this season when Nowitzki attempted at least 10 free throws.

“He still had 10 free throws, but it’s better than 24. So we kept him off the line,” Collison said. “We didn’t use our hands as much. We wanted to challenge his shots and hope he missed them.”

Dallas coach Rick Car-

lisle didn’t think the problem was failing to get the ball to Nowitzki enough.

He was focused on another off performance from the Mavericks’ defense, which has given up its most points of the postseason in the last two games.

Dallas was allowing opponents only 88.2 points per game and hadn’t given up more than 97 in the playoffs before a 121-112 win in Game 1 against Oklahoma City.

“Scoring 100 points in a playoff game should be enough to win, but not if you’re giving up 106 or 112,” Carlisle said. “It’s just too much.

“You’ve got to give them credit. They played an attacking, desperate type game. They kept coming.

They did not get discouraged. Their bench was dominant when they played. We have got to do a better job at the defensive end.”

GARCIA Continued from Page 1B with a fourth place finish in the 3200-meter run.

In her four years at Zapata, she made four trips to the state cross country meet and two trips to the state track meet. In addition, she is also a twotime all-state cross country runner and an allstate track runner.

She is the only female from Zapata to advance to state twice in track.

“She has been a regional champ as an individual in cross country and now in track,” Villarreal said. “Her teams have advanced three times to the state meet in cross country.

“She was district champion in the 3200-meter run and the 1600-meter for three years in a row. She also broke the District 3A two-mile record, which had stood for over 25 years, and then

the next day broke the mile record of 15 years.”

Garcia will leave high school as one of the best long distance runners from Zapata to grace the maroon and gold.

“Being our most decorated runner, she gives us a standard by which we will conduct ourselves,” Villarreal said.

“Jessica Martinez and Michelle Garcia did it before her and now she has set the bar higher.

It’s a privilege to have been a part of her accomplishments and to have witnessed the transformation first hand.”

As Garcia ponders her future of where she will lace up her shoes next year to run, her choices have come down to The University of Texas-San Antonio or The University of Texas-Pan American.

NFL Continued from Page 1B “The one thing you can’t replace is time, and the young guys coming into the league this year won’t have the benefit of that time with the coaches and with the playbook.”

That playbook might not be so bulky or intricate when the players do get back with their teams.

Belichick, who with Tom Brady and an experienced offense wouldn’t seem the type to need or make cutbacks, indicated to the Boston Herald he’ll do exactly that.

“Yeah, something’s going to have to go, I would think,” Belichick said.

“The progression’s got to stay the same and you still have to start at one point and build forward on it, but the width of that or the breadth of that amount of installation, I think, could definitely be subject to being trimmed back. Maybe drastically. I don’t know, but it’s possible, sure.”

Some players not only expect a CliffsNotes version of the playbooks, but encourage it.

“It does need to be done soon, just for the simple fact that we can’t pick everything back up in September and play football,” Lions receiver Nate Burleson said. “This isn’t flag football. We’re not going to give a C-minus product on the field for the fans.

People paying for the tickets are paying for a product, they’re paying for the best athletes in the world.

That takes organization and chemistry.

“If this thing continues to go on, that Week 1 and 2 is not going to be exciting to watch. I wouldn’t want to sit at home and watch a group of guys throw the ball around that haven’t seen each other in weeks.”

Using a trimmed-down game plan would make execution easier and should raise the quality of play. Some teams have dozens of passing plays, for example, and each has

Using a trimmed-down game plan would make execution easier and should raise the quality of play. variations. Other teams have complex defensive schemes built on alternating personnel, blitzes and interchangeable parts.

Much of that is taught in the offseason, particularly in minicamps, when hitting basically is forbidden. Sure, weight training, running and exercising are critical for players staying in shape. But a majority of the mental work is done long before the pads and helmets go on.

Then there are the workouts as a team, a key element to building chemistry. As Redskins quarterback Rex Grossman said, “There’s a lot things you can’t learn by just looking at a playbook.”

Richardson has spent 16 seasons in the NFL after not even being drafted out of Auburn. He traveled the most difficult road to earn a roster spot, and he worries about any player coming into the league without “basic training.”

“For me, the playbook is not higher mathematics,” he said. “But I’m going on 17 years in the league. I’ve seen what coaches can come up with.

“For these young guys, I understand how much they need to be sitting between veterans in the locker room and being a part of a team. That’s a way for them to learn, too, and they aren’t getting the chance now.”

TENNIS Continued from Page 1B last, oh, century,” said Venus Williams, owner of seven major singles titles.

“Right now is something we’re not used to.”

When it comes to taking home trophies, Roddick and the rest of the American men have been forced to deal with the same obstacle everyone else has for the past several years: The consistent excellence of a couple of guys from Switzerland (Roger Federer) and Spain (Rafael Nadal).

Those two countries — well, those two men — alone account for 24 of the 29 Grand Slam men’s singles titles since Roddick’s victory in New York. The others have gone to Serbia (two to Novak Djokovic, whose Australian Open championship in January

is part of his 37-0 record heading into the French Open), Argentina (one each to Juan Martin del Potro and Gaston Gaudio) and Russia (Marat Safin).

Roddick has come close, playing in four Grand Slam finals from 2004-09, but losing each to Federer.

“Clearly, the game has been dominated by a couple of players,” said former U.S. Davis Cup captain Patrick McEnroe, John’s brother, “and clearly, we have a lot of work to do.”

In this week’s rankings, there’s only one man or woman in the top 10: No. 10 Mardy Fish, followed by Roddick at No. 11. The top American women are Serena Williams at 17th, and Venus Williams at 29th; neither has played in

months. Bethanie MattekSands is next at 36th.

Here’s another indication of where things stand: Some of the biggest bits of news connected to U.S. tennis in the run-up to Roland Garros have been the withdrawals of the Williams sisters; the release of a book about John McEnroe’s rivalry with Bjorn Borg decades ago; and a public back-and-forth between Donald Young, a 21year-old who recently returned to the top 100, and the U.S. Tennis Association, a spat involving a French Open wild-card entry he didn’t get and a nasty tweet he posted in frustration.

As for the American men’s title chances in Paris, consider these career records there: Fish is 2-5,

26th-ranked Sam Querrey is 0-4, and 39th-ranked John Isner is 2-2. None has been past the third round.

There are a total of nine U.S. men in the top 100 this week, the same number as Germany and France — and five fewer than Spain (a country with a population about onesixth that of the United States). There are only four Americans in the ATP top 50, the same number as Argentina and only one more than Italy; Spain has 10 in the top 50.

“The game got so global just in the past 10, 15 years. ... Tennis in America has slowed down. It’s not as dominant. It doesn’t make me feel sad or angry.

It’s just a reality check,” said Sampras, who won 14 Grand Slam titles and fin-

ished No. 1 in the rankings a record six years in a row.

“We’re fine. We have some good young players. But they’re not Grand Slam winners and they’re not No. 1 in the world, so it might take some time.”

On the women’s side, the U.S. Fed Cup team lost 5-0 to Germany in April and was eliminated from the competition’s top tier for the first time, meaning the 17-time champion Americans now need to win their way back to the elite level.

And no American woman has won a WTA or Grand Slam title since Serena Williams at Wimbledon in July, a span of 50 tournaments. During that stretch, only one woman from the U.S., MattekSands, even has reached a final.

“If I knew why other countries were having success, we’d be copying it quickly,” Venus Williams said. “It’s happening right now, but it doesn’t mean it’s something that’ll be forever.”

That’s probably true.

Still, there are those who figure the wait will drag on.

“I don’t have a magic pill or a magic answer to say, ’We’ve got to start doing this or that.’ We just need a couple of athletes to figure it out and find their way and sort of become freaks of nature,” said Sampras, who came up through the juniors with Agassi (eight major titles), Courier (four) and Michael Chang (one). “It might be a few years until it happens.”

SATURDAY, MAY 21, 2011

DAILY CRYPTOQUOTES — Here’s how to work it:

FAMILY CIRCUS

DENNIS THE MENACE

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Sports

4B THE ZAPATA TIMES

SATURDAY, MAY 21, 2011

Bulls learning from mistakes

By ANDREW SELIGMAN ASSOCIATED PRESS

CHICAGO — By the numbers, the Chicago Bulls easily could have been blown out by the Miami Heat in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference finals.

They weren’t, though.

Even though MVP Derrick Rose struggled, even though they got outshot and outrebounded, and even though LeBron James and Dwyane Wade played more like superstars, the Bulls were in it until the end.

So maybe that’s one positive they can take from their 85-75 loss on Wednesday — or not. Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau certainly wasn’t afterward. He gave his team Thursday off, but he’ll be spending the next few days trying to fix what went wrong with the series shifting to Miami tied at one game apiece.

Game 3 is Sunday.

“We’re going to have to make corrections, learn from it, and do a whole lot better down there,” Thibodeau said. “Defensively we have to do a lot better. We have to clean a lot of things up.”

The Bulls figured Miami wasn’t about to go quietly, even after a dominating 103-82 win in Game 1, when James struggled in a big way and Wade just about disappeared. This time, James came up big near the end and finished with 29 points, while Wade scored 24 and Udonis Haslem provided a big lift with 13.

Still, Chicago might be up 2-0 had it made just a few more baskets or grabbed a few more rebounds.

After dominating Miami on the boards, the Bulls got beaten 45-41 in an area Heat coach Erik Spoelstra has dubbed a “fistfight.” And the Bulls went from scoring 31 second-chance points in

Photo by Nam Y. Huh | AP

Miami Heat guard Dwyane Wade (3) goes up for a shot against Chicago Bulls forward Taj Gibson (obscured) during the second quarter of Game 2 on Wednesday in Chicago.) the opener to 18 in Game 2.

The shooting was simply abysmal, with the Bulls making 34.1 percent compared to Miami’s 47.1.

Whether they were firing away from the outside or going to the rim, they simply weren’t hitting. They missed an astounding 17 of 20 3-point attempts, were a brutal 17 of 42 in the paint and had little luck at the foul line, too, going 16 of 26.

No wonder, then, that the Bulls managed just 29 points in the second half, including a franchise postseason-low 10 in the fourth quarter.

All five Chicago starters shot below 50 percent, with Rose hitting just 7 of 23 while scoring 21 points.

The twisting layups and floaters that usually fall through the net simply weren’t going down, and his jumpers were clanging off the rim.

The only other Bulls player in double-figure scoring was Luol Deng with 13, and he was 5 of 15 and 1 of 7 from long range.

Carlos Boozer? He had a rough night, going 3 for 10 with seven points and sitting out the fourth quarter.

While the Bulls got some

help from Taj Gibson (eight points) and Ronnie Brewer (seven points), 3-point specialist Kyle Korver made only 1 of 5 from beyond the arc. That left him 3 of 15 from the outside over the past five games.

All that has to change, of course. Even so, for all their shortcomings, the Bulls had a chance to win the game. The teams were tied at 73 in the fourth quarter before James took over, so the loss hardly rattled the Bulls.

“We’re definitely confident,” Rose said. “I know we can’t wait to go out

there and play again. We’re the type of team where when things get tough, we stay together. We’re not going different ways. Coach always talks about this, where the playoffs is going to challenge you every way possible. And we just got to stick together and know it’s going to be a fun series.”

The Bulls showed they are a resilient bunch during the regular season, piling up a league-leading 62 wins even though Boozer and Noah missed significant time with injuries.

Chicago dropped consecutive games only four times

during the season and never lost more than two in a row.

Of course, the stakes are higher now, and they’re up against a team many think will win multiple championships. The Bulls had a chance to take a 2-0 series lead against a team they had been 4-0 against this year. Instead, they stumbled and gave up homecourt advantage.

“We had a chance late, look at the score,” Gibson said. “It was tied in the fourth quarter, but the ball didn’t bounce our way. We couldn’t get a shot to fall.”