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SAN YGNACIO MEMORIAL DAY
Battle RECALLING over the THEIR wall SACRIFICES
Disagreement between landowner, county could lead to courtroom fight By LORRAINE L. RODRIGUEZ THE ZAPATA TIMES
Photo by Michael Dwyer | AP
John DeFruscio, 7, of Collegeville, Pa., walks on the edge of a field of flags on Boston Common ahead of Memorial Day, on Friday, in Boston.
A land controversy involving San Ygnacio landowner Joel Ruiz and the county may lead to the courtroom, after Ruiz refused to move a wall that the county claims is encroaching on public property. Ruiz rejects the county’s claim, saying he has a survey showing that the wall is on his property, not the county’s. According to Zapata
County officials, Ruiz’s wall is encroaching on county property by 7 feet 4 inches. It’s property the county wants to use in building a new road that could lead to a new boat ramp some time in the future. Ruiz was given 30 days to tear down the brick wall or face a lawsuit. “I don’t know his intentions,” Zapata County Attorney Said Alfonso Figueroa said Friday. “The ball
See WALL PAGE 10A
CATHOLIC CHURCH
Photo by Ulysses S. Romero | The Zapata Times
Photo by Ulysses S. Romero | The Zapata Times
Marine Corps veteran William Uecker reacts during the 2010 Memorial Obeservance held at the Laredo Community College Washington Street campus on Wednesday.
This tombstone features a U.S. Air Force jet at the Zapata County Cemetery.
Vets to be honored with flags on graves By LORRAINE L. RODRIGUEZ THE ZAPATA TIMES
A
merican Legion Auxiliary together with the Marine Corps League and the Veterans of Foreign Wars will gather at the Zapata County Cemetery today to place small U.S. flags on veterans’ graves to
honor them in observance of Memorial Day. “Memorial Day is a tradition where we honor our departed comrades,” veteran Alberto Arambula said. This traditional event will take place today at 9 a.m. with the organizations and families meeting at the American Legion Auxiliary building,
where small U.S. flags will be distributed to the participants and later travel to the cemetery where a flag will be placed on each veteran’s grave. On Memorial Day, the American Legion Auxiliary, Marine Corps League, and VFW along with the families of veterans will be gathering
for a flag-raising ceremony at the Zapata County Cemetery at 8:30 a.m. Immediately following will be a speech by Gerardo Gutierrez, a veteran and past commander of VFW, member of American Legion and incoming commander of VFW, in July. A 21-gun
See VETERANS PAGE 10A
ZAPATA COUNTY
Grants may help build library By LORRAINE L. RODRIGUEZ THE ZAPATA TIMES
Olga V. Figueroa Zapata County Public Library officials met with the county’s project coordinator
Tuesday to begin the grant search process for possible construction of a new library facility. The advisory board together with library director Aida Garcia thought it
was time to plan the construction of a new library since the problems the library has been experiencing. “The current library has been in existence
since the early ’80s and for several years has been experiencing major problems,” board member Patricia Ramirez said.
See LIBRARY PAGE 10A
Violence cuts Mass attendance By MIGUEL TIMOSHENKOV THE ZAPATA TIMES
NUEVO LAREDO — Concern over the deadly drug-trafficking violence plaguing the Mexican side of the “frontera chica” has caused attendance at Sunday Mass to drop by as much as 70 percent, according to church officials. “The towns of Ciudad Mier, Nueva Ciudad Guerrero and Miguel Alemán are dangerous,” said Bishop Gustavo Rodríguez Vega of the Diocese of Nuevo Laredo. “Our faithful have abstained from attending evening Mass altogether so we have suspended it.” Such is the extent of the fear that all evening Masses – even for such traditional events such as weddings, quiciañeras and baptisms – have been cancelled. Rodriguez said it’s tragic that officials have found
no way to overcome this reign of terror, which has cost the life of a PAN candidate for mayor of Valle Hermoso and, despite the fact that it’s the middle of the election season, has resulted in little or no public campaigning. The bishop noted, however, that despite the lack of security, priests and others assigned to the parishes in Guerrero, Miguel Alemán, Mier, Camargo, Díaz Ordaz and Valle Hermoso continue to perform their spiritual duties. He admitted that there is fear, but they seek to overcome it as spiritual role models. “They will not leave their parishes. They remain at the side of their flock,” Rodriguez said. “We are not going to close the churches in the cities where the risk is the highest.”
See MASS PAGE 8A
PAGE 2A
Zin brief CALENDAR
SATURDAY, MAY 29, 2010
AROUND TEXAS
TODAY IN HISTORY
FRIDAY, JUNE 4 Registration will be from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. for The Zapata County Chamber of Commerce’s API Border Chapter Bass Tournament & BBQ Cookoff. At least one team member must be present at registration. The team entry fee is $200/$100 each. At least one person per boat is required to work in the Oil and Gas Industry. Fisherman Auction will start at 8 p.m. Payback is 80 percent. For more information, please call 765-4339. AgriLIFE Extension of the Texas A&M System in cooperation with the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association will present Wednesday, Aug. 4, Ranch Estate Planning at College Station Conference Center, 1300 George Bush Drive today from 1 to 5 p.m.. A presentation will give a thorough analysis of income and estate tax rules as they affect families and agricultural business. Also, join the Animcal Science Department at the Beef Cattle Short Course. For more information on the Beef Course contact Jason Cleere at (979) 845-6931 and for more information on the Ranch Estate Seminar, call (979) 845-2226.
SATURDAY, JUNE 5 The Zapata County Chamber of Commerce hosts the annual API Border Chapter Bass Tournament & BBQ Cookoff today and Sunday, June 6 at Falcon Lake. Take off is set at 7 a.m. with weigh-ins at 3 p.m. Food will be served at 6 p.m. For more information, please call 765-4339.
SUNDAY, JUNE 6 Today concludes the API Border Chapter Bass Tournament & BBQ Cookoff. Take off is still set at 7 a.m. with weigh-in moved up to 1 p.m. Food will be served before the award ceremony. Awards will be distributed for the tournament and auction after weigh-in.
MONDAY, JUNE 7 VFW #7768 will host a general meeting today at 7 p.m. at the post home, located on highway 16 and 16th St.
THURSDAY, JUNE 17 AARP chapter #1308 joins today at 12:30 p.m. for a pot luck lunch, followed by a meeting at 1 p.m. at 2008 Sunset Drive. American Legion meets tonight at 7 p.m. at the American Legion Building, 2213 North U.S. Hwy 83.
SATURDAY, JULY 17 The Zapata County Chamber of Commerce presents the Fishing Tournament for Life Extravaganza March of Dimes on Falcon Lake. Registration begins today at 5 to 7 p.m. at the Oso Blanco Lodge Boat Ramp. For more information, call 765-4339.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 4 AgriLIFE Extension of the Texas A&M System in cooperation with the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association presents Ranch Estate Planning at College Station Conference Center, 1300 George Bush Drive today from 1 to 5 p.m.. A presentation will give a thorough analysis of income and estate tax rules as they affect families and agricultural business. To submit an item for the calendar, send the name of the event, the date, time, location and contact phone number to editorial@lmtonline.com
ASSOCIATED PRESS
Photo by Pat Sullivan | AP
In this April 16, photo, a construction project is in progress outside an Exxon Mobil chemical plant in Baytown, Texas. Exxon Mobil, the nation’s largest refinery, and several other facilities in Texas have been operating under permits never approved by the EPA.
Perry: Stop EPA action By RAMIT PLUSHNICK-MASTI ASSOCIATED PRESS
HOUSTON — Gov. Rick Perry took a spat between state and federal environmental regulators to the country’s highest authority Friday, asking President Barack Obama to stop the Environmental Protection Agency from taking over Texas’ air quality program. A dispute that began as an environmental fight about granting permits to some of the nation’s largest refineries has recently evolved into a battle over state rights. The argument reached a tipping point earlier this week after the EPA’s regional director Al Armendariz threatened to remove Texas’ regulatory authorities by midsummer if it fails to comply with the Clean Air Act. Armendariz told The Associated Press his office had already started hiring additional staff, in part to tackle Texas’ faulty air qual-
ity program. If the EPA takes over, it will be replacing a successful program “with a less effective Washington-based, bureaucratic-led, command and control mandate,” Perry wrote to Obama. On Wednesday, he called the EPA’s move a federal power grab. Texas Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst said in a statement Friday the EPA’s action is “politically driven by the increasingly partisan Obama administration in trying to mess with Texas” while costing thousands of jobs. The dispute is largely over Texas’ so-called flexible permits, which set a general limit on how much pollutants an entire facility can release. The federal Clean Air Act requires state-issued permits to set limits on each of the dozens of individual production units inside a plant. The EPA says Texas’ system masks pollution.
Gov. names GOP nominee to state Supreme Court
Death penalty for man in students’ deaths
Conservator for school after video beating
AUSTIN — Gov. Rick Perry has appointed state District Judge Debra Lehrmann to the Texas Supreme Court, filling the seat of Justice Harriet O’Neill when she leaves June 20. Lehrmann is already the Republican nominee to replace O’Neill in the November general election when she will face Democrat Jim Sharp.
BRYAN — A jury in Bryan has decided on execution for a man convicted in the 2009 shooting deaths of his ex-girlfriend and her brother, Texas A&M students. Jurors on Friday ordered the death penalty for 26-year-old John Thuesen. Thuesen was convicted May 20 of capital murder in the slaying of Rachel Joiner and her brother, Travis Joiner.
HOUSTON — A charter school where a science teacher was fired after she was caught on cell phone video beating a 13year-old student, will be under the oversight of a conservator. The Texas Education Agency assigned a conservator to Jamie’s House Charter School to review safety, discipline and teacher training.
Records of impostor hoops star kept secret AUSTIN — Documents that might show how a 22-year-old immigrant from Haiti duped Odessa Permian High School coaches and administrators into thinking he was a 16-year-old basketball star will not be released. The Associated Press sought records of Montimer’s request to be eligible to play basketball. They include letters from Permian coaches and Montimer to UIL officials.
State leaders order more budget cuts AUSTIN — Texas Republican leaders asked state agencies Friday to find more savings to prepare for a budget shortfall of up to $18 billion. The request for agencies to lower their future state funding requests by 10 percent comes on top of an earlier plea to cut 5 percent out of their existing budgets.
Brownsville puppy killer gets 18 months BROWNSVILLE — A teen who pleaded guilty to killing a neighborhood puppy in Brownsville has been sentenced to 18 months in state jail. A judge on Thursday sentenced 19-year-old Mario Alberto Gasca, who pleaded guilty to cruelty to non-livestock animals. Gasca, in jail in Cameron County for more than 100 days, will get credit for time served. -- Compiled from AP reports
AROUND THE NATION
SETTING IT STRAIGHT An article about the Olga V. Figueroa Zapata County Public Library published on page 1A of the May 22 edition of The Zapata Times contained incorrect information about when the library advisory board was created. In fact, three of the members have been members for more than 12 years and the fourth for almost three years. In addition, the last name of one of the board members was misspelled. The correct name is Rosie Bigler. Another point requires clarification; a quote attributed to Library Director Aida Garcia stating, “They help us every year,” was made in reference to the Guadalupe and Lilia Martinez Foundation. The Meadows Foundation, which the library expects to ask for a grant, would be a new source of funding.
Nurses in Minn., Calif. set strike dates
CONTACT US
MINNEAPOLIS — Thousands of nurses in Minnesota and California on Friday announced plans to walk off the job for a single day next month if they don’t reach contract agreements with hospitals. The nurses — 12,000 in the Minneapolis area and nearly 13,000 at hospitals across California — both set June 10 as a strike date.
Mind the moose, police warn New England drivers PORTLAND, Maine — Police are stepping up enforcement over the holiday weekend in northern New England. But that’s not the only reason motorists should slow down. Spring is sending moose scampering onto roadways, causing a spate of crashes including one that recently killed a man on In-
Today is Saturday, May 29, the 149th day of 2010. There are 216 days left in the year. Today’s Highlight in History: On May 29, 1953, Mount Everest was conquered as Edmund Hillary of New Zealand and Tensing Norgay of Nepal became the first climbers to reach the summit. On this date: In 1660, England’s King Charles II was restored to the monarchy after an interregnum of 11 years. In 1765, Patrick Henry denounced the Stamp Act before Virginia’s House of Burgesses. In 1790, Rhode Island became the 13th original colony to ratify the United States Constitution. In 1848, Wisconsin became the 30th state of the union. In 1913, the ballet “The Rite of Spring,” with music by Igor Stravinsky and choreography by Vaslav Nijinsky, had its chaotic world premiere in Paris. In 1917, the 35th president of the United States, John F. Kennedy, was born in Brookline, Mass. In 1932, World War I veterans began arriving in Washington to demand cash bonuses they weren’t scheduled to receive until 1945. In 1943, Norman Rockwell’s portrait of “Rosie the Riveter” appeared on the cover of The Saturday Evening Post. In 1973, Tom Bradley was elected the first black mayor of Los Angeles, defeating incumbent Sam Yorty. In 1985, 39 people were killed at the European Cup Final in Brussels, Belgium, when rioting broke out and a wall separating British and Italian soccer fans collapsed. Ten years ago: President Bill Clinton left Washington for a weeklong European tour. The space shuttle Atlantis returned from a repair mission to the international space station. Indonesia’s state prosecutors placed former President Suharto under house arrest (however, Suharto’s trial on corruption charges was abandoned because of health). Five years ago: French voters soundly rejected the European Union’s proposed constitution, which was also defeated by the Dutch days later. In a deadly rampage at two farmhouses in Bellefontaine, Ohio, 18-year-old Scott Moody shot his grandparents, his mother and two friends before turning the gun on himself. Today’s Birthdays: Actor Clifton James is 89. Former Baseball Commissioner Fay Vincent is 72. Race car driver Al Unser is 71. CBS News Correspondent Bob Simon is 69. Actor Kevin Conway is 68. Actor Helmut Berger is 66. Rock singer Gary Brooker (Procol Harum) is 65. Actor Anthony Geary is 63. Singer Rebbie (ree-bee) Jackson is 60. Movie composer Danny Elfman is 57. Rock musician Michael Porcaro (Toto) is 55. Singer LaToya Jackson is 54. Actor Ted Levine is 53. Actress Annette Bening is 52. Actor Rupert Everett is 51. Actor Adrian Paul is 51. Singer Melissa Etheridge is 49. Actress Lisa Whelchel is 47. Actress Tracey Bregman is 47. Rock musician Noel Gallagher (Oasis) is 43. Thought for Today: “A pessimist and an optimist, so much the worse; so much the better.” — Jean de La Fontaine, French poet (1621-1695).
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An egret lands on boom at Bayou Caddy in Hancock County, Mississippi, on Thursday, as efforts continue to contain the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.
terstate 295 in Maine.
Obama arrives in Gulf as BP tries to stop oil leak COVINGTON, La. — BP’s chief executive cautioned Friday
that it will be two more days before anyone knows if the latest fix attempt will stop the oil spewing into the sea, and President Barack Obama arrived on the Gulf Coast to tell residents they are not alone in dealing with it. -- Compiled from AP reports
SUBSCRIPTIONS/DELIVERY (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. The Zapata Times is free. 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 29, 2010
Zlocal
THE BLOTTER
PAGE 3A
QUEEN AND HER COURT VISIT RELAY FOR LIFE
Plants for deer
ASSAULT Jesus Alberto Hernandez-Carmona, 32, was arrested on a charge of assault - family violence at about 10 p.m. Monday in the 1000 block of Falcon Avenue. He was booked and transported to Zapata Regional Jail, and later released, pending court appearance.
SPECIAL TO THE TIMES
BURGLARY Mario Medina Jr., 22, was arrested on a charge of burglary of habitation at 2:40 p.m. May 22 in the 300 block of Paul’s Valley Road in the Rhoda Maria subdivision. He was booked and transported to the Zapata Regional Jail, and held in lieu of a $10,000 bond. A 21-year-old woman reported at 1 a.m. May 23 in the 800 block of Fresno Street that someone burglarized her vehicle and stole her purse. A 25-year-old woman reported at midnight Monday in the 800 block of Falcon Avenue someone took a laptop from inside an apartment. A 33-year-old man reported at 1:30 p.m. Monday at a ranch off U.S. 83 by Lopeño that someone stole an air compressor. The item was valued at $600. A 45-year-old man reported at 8:45 a.m. Tuesday in the Reyes Body Shop in the 1700 block of North U.S. 83 that someone broke into the place and stole assorted tools valued at $1,300.
CRIMINAL MISCHIEF A 53-year-old man reported at 6 p.m. Tuesday that someone broke a window to a building in the 2000 block of South U.S. 83. The damage was valued at about $350. A 30-year-old woman reported at noon Tuesday someone broke the rear window on the complainant’s vehicle in the intersection of Seventh Street and Texas 16.
RECKLESS DRIVING Gerardo Buentello Jr., 19, was arrested on charges of reckless driving and possession of marijuana at 3:30 a.m. Tuesday at the intersection of Matamoros and U.S. 83. He was booked and transported to Zapata Regional Jail, and held on a combined bond of $2,000.
Courtesy photo
The 2010 Zapata County Fair Queen and her court make a special appearance at the Zapata Relay for Life, a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. From left to right are first runner-up Kristina L. Garcia, Zapata County Queen Adriana N. Ramirez and second runner up Sarah I. Lozano. Relay for Life was held April 11.
The planting of food plots has become a big part of deer habitat management, with millions of dollars spent annually on planting. However, many hunters and landowners overlook the naturally occurring deer-friendly plants already on their property that with a little care will produce an abundance of food for deer at little cost. The guidebook “How to Manage Native Plants for Deer” gives the reader the information needed to locate and manage a wide range of native and naturally occurring plants that deer love. Deer hunting is always better, and attracts deer from greater distances, when the total habitat is managed. Selecting and fertilizing native and naturally occurring plants is an easy way to improve land for deer.
BP, El Rincon hosting scholarship fundraiser By STEPHANIE M. IBARRA THE ZAPATA TIMES
The U.S. Border Patrol in Zapata is taking the initiative to help local students. In conjunction with El Rincon De Los Angeles Restaurant, Zapata Border Patrol will be hosting the First Scholarship Night to raise funds on Friday, June 4. “It’s a great cause,” said Rosalva M. Gonzalez, El Rincon De Los Angeles restaurant owner. “I help my restaurant and the children of Zapata at the same time.”
Gonzalez, a long-time supporter of the local Border Patrol station, said the proposal for the scholarship fundraiser originated on the restaurant’s patio. “One day (agents Ramiro Cerrillo and Narcizo Ramos) were having breakfast out on the patio and Ramiro told me, ‘It’s so beautiful out here. Why don’t we do something – invite all the parents, members of the community. We could donate all the tips we collect.’ And I thought it was a great idea.” During the event, Border Pa-
trol agents will be waiting tables throughout the night, donating all tips to the Youth of the Month/Year Program at Zapata High School. Patrol Agent in Charge Ramiro S. Cerrillo, Field Operations Supervisor Elias Herrera, Field Operations Supervisor Luis Calderon, Supervisory Border Patrol Agent Narcizo Ramos, Supervisory Border Patrol Agent Homero Salinas and Sandra Reyes are among the agents volunteering for the night. “The Border Patrol does so
much for the community. I hope to see everyone here,” Gonzalez said. The scholarship night will be held Friday from 5 to 10 p.m. at the restaurant, at 309 South U.S. 83. Indoor and outdoor seating will be available, with accommodations for large groups. For more information or to make a reservation, contact Rosalva M. Gonzalez or Saul Trejo at 7658900. (Stephanie M. Ibarra may be contacted at 728-2567 or sibarra@lmtonline.com)
PAGE 4A
Zopinion
SATURDAY, MAY 29, 2010
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR SEND YOUR SIGNED LETTER TO EDITORIAL@LMTONLINE.COM
YOUR OPINION
OTHER VIEWS
Flavored cigarettes, tobacco are illegal; thousands die of tobacco-related diseases To the editor: On June 22, 2010 it will be one year since President Obama signed the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act. Under this new law, all wholesale distributors and retail merchants are to refrain from selling flavored tobacco products. Specifically, products such as flavored cigarettes and flavored rolling papers. Section 907(a)(1)(A) of the new law states: “…a cigarette or any of its component parts (including the tobacco, filter, or paper) shall not contain, as a constituent (including a smoke constituent) or additive, an artificial or natural flavor (other than tobacco or menthol) or an herb or spice, including strawberry, grape, orange, clove, cinnamon, pineapple, vanilla, coconut, licorice, cocoa, chocolate, cherry, or coffee, that is a characterizing flavor of the tobacco product or tobacco smoke.” “This standard applies to all tobacco products that meet the definition of a ‘cigarette’ in section 900(3) of the Act even if they are not labeled as cigarettes or are labeled as cigars or as some other product.” The Food and Drug Administration will make random unannounced visits at retail stores to ensure compliance. At the Rio Grande Valley Council, we provide education throughout communities
within our 19-county region, which includes Webb, Jim Hogg and Zapata. Prevention Resource Center Region No. 11 engages in discussions from tobacco education and alcohol information to drug and substance abuse awareness. In Texas alone, more than 24,000 tobacco-related deaths occur each year, all of which could be prevented (Department of State Health Services, www.dshs.state.tx.us/tobacco) – 89 percent of those statewide deaths were people who started smoking as teens. The entire United States loses around 1,200 lives everyday to tobacco-related diseases. This is more than AIDS, alcohol, drug abuse, car crashes, murders and suicides combined (www.worthit.org). The RGV Council provides clinical services that consist of counseling and pre-screenings. Some services are provided externally in order to increase access. Individuals seeking help or with questions may call (956) 787-7111 or email info@rgvcouncil.org – or visit www.rgvcouncil.org Our primary office is located in Pharr at 5510 N. Cage Blvd. Ste. C. Our staff is ready and willing to serve. Signed, Jose M. Garza Tobacco Education Specialist Rio Grande Valley Council
COLUMN
Spend those spare billions By JASON EMBRY COX NEWSPAPERS
A
USTIN — A budget is a statement of priorities, and in this state, the priority is tax relief. As lawmakers prepare to grapple with their $11 billion to $18 billion-pretty-soon-you’re-talking-realmoney budget shortfall, it is important to remember that the situation is more dire than it should have been because lawmakers don’t care that the state’s main business tax has woefully underperformed. Once again, let’s flash back to 2006. Led by Gov. Rick Perry and his Democratic sidekick John Sharp, the Legislature reworked the state’s business tax so that it would raise about $3.8 billion per year to help pay for cuts in school property taxes.
Not enough For better or worse, the tax has brought in much less than projected. Over each of the next two years, it is expected to raise about $1.8 billion. Even before the economy tanked, the tax raised about $2 billion per year less than originally predicted. Predicting how much money a tax will raise is an inexact science. So we can, and should, forgive state officials for missing the mark on their original estimates of how much this tax would bring in. What’s startling is that the Legislature has done nothing to fix it. Even if the business tax had raised as much as projected, the 2006 tax swap would have been a net tax cut of historic proportions — about $2.4 billion per year. But because lawmak-
ers are so averse to anything resembling a tax increase, they haven’t moved to make the business tax meet its original projections.
Play ‘what if’ Let’s ponder what lawmakers could do with that $2 billion if the business tax had performed as projected (when, by the way, it was endorsed by the Texas Association of Business and many industry groups). You like teachers? Every teacher in Texas could get a $6,000 raise. How about college scholarships? About 69,000 students get Texas Grant scholarships from the state to cover higher education expenses. On average, the scholarships are worth about $3,900 per year. For the $2 billion cost of overestimating the business tax, the state could give Texas Grants to more than 500,000 students. Child Protective Services caseworkers investigate claims of abuse and neglect against children and are often stretched thin. For just $1 billion per year, the state could triple state spending on CPS. There are other examples out there, but you get the idea. Tax relief is a worthy public policy goal that, among other benefits, can lead to job creation. Texas leaders decided four years ago that the overall tax burden in this state was too high, and they lowered it. But it’s worth remembering what slipped further down the state’s priority list when they lowered the burden more than they meant to. (Reach Jason Embry at jembry@statesman.com)
COLUMN
Oil woes keep on growing W
ASHINGTON — It’s unnerving, disorienting. A particularly noxious blend of helplessness, fear and fury that washes over you when you realize the country has again been dragged into a costly and scary maelstrom revolving around acronyms you’ve never heard of. Our economy went in the ditch while traders got rich peddling CDOs and CDSs. Even many bankers — much less average Americans who lost their shirts — were gobsmacked by the acronyms, and scrambled to figure out how collateralized debt obligations and credit default swaps worked. And now a gazillion gallons of oil have poisoned the Gulf of Mexico, thanks in part to unethical employees at a once-obscure agency known as MMS — the Interior Department’s Minerals Management Service. MMS is charged with collecting royalties from Big Oil even as it regulates it — an absurd conflict right there. So MMS has had the same sort of conflicts of interest as ratings agencies like Moody’s and Standard & Poor’s had with Wall Street.
Too close for comfort Consorting with the industry intensified once two oilmen took over the White House. Dick Cheney, Duke of Halliburton — responsible for the cementing of the calamitous well, now under investigation — had his aides conspire with BP America and other oil com-
“
MAUREEN DOWD
panies to draw up an energy policy. As when derivatives experts had to help unravel the derivatives debacle, now the White House is dependent on BP to find a solution to the horror it created. The financial crisis and the oil spill are both man-made disasters brought on by hubris and avarice.
Slow to act With poignant scenes of oil-soaked birds and out-ofwork fishermen on TV, the White House is still scrambling to get on top of this latest catastrophe. The laconic president is once more giving too much deference and trust to rapacious corporate scoundrels and failing to swiftly grasp and articulate the alarm of Americans. One West Wing official admits that, even with all the crises they were juggling, they should have acted more urgently to re-examine the dark legacy of Cheney in the Energy and Interior departments. Monitoring the plume of doom — a symbol of national impotence — we’re learning another whole new vocabulary from Top Hat to Top Kill. We are trapped in a science-fiction nightmare we can’t wake up from, possibly because of a dead battery in the control pod connected to a
dead man’s switch for the blowout preventer, whatever that means. We’re glued to a House energy subcommittee’s “spillcam” website and Google Earth pictures of the spreading slick, nauseated by the news that once more, government officials charged with protecting us were instead enabling greedy corporations. As The Washington Post reported on Tuesday, there is growing suspicion that the money concerns of the companies involved with the well created “an atmosphere of haste” that may have spurred the spill. In a report released Tuesday, Mary Kendall, acting inspector general of the Department of the Interior, described an agency that followed Cheney’s lead in letting the oil industry write the rules. Just like those SEC employees who were watching porn and ignoring warning signs while Wall Street punks created financial Frankensteins, some MMS employees were watching porn, using coke and crystal meth and accepting gifts like trips to the Peach Bowl game from oil and gas companies, the report said.
‘All oil industry’ Regarding outrageous behavior before 2007, one confidential source told investigators that some MMS inspectors let oil and gas company staffers fill out inspection forms using pencils “and MMS inspectors would write on top of the pencil in ink and turn in the completed form.”
Larry Williamson, the MMS Lake Charles, La., district manager, told investigators: “Obviously, we’re all oil industry. We’re all from the same part of the country. Almost all of our inspectors have worked for oil companies out on these same platforms. They grew up in the same towns. Some of these people, they’ve been friends with all their life,” hunting, fishing and skeet-shooting together.
Advance warning The tragedy is that MMS eerily presaged the disaster in the draft of a May 2000 environmental analysis of deep-water drilling in the gulf. The agency noted that “the oil industry’s experience base in deepwater well control is limited” and that given the prodigious production rates, “a deepwater blowout of this magnitude in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico could easily turn out to be a potential showstopper” for the Outer Continental Shelf program. But MMS got rid of those caveats in the final report, just as they deemed a remote-controlled shut-off switch an unnecessary expense for drilling companies several years ago. As we watch a self-inflicted contamination that has no end in sight, consider this chilling arithmetic: One oil industry reporter reckoned that the 5,000 barrels a day (a conservative estimate) spewing 5,000 feet down in the gulf counts for only two minutes of oil consumption in the state of Texas.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY The Zapata Times does not publish anonymous letters. To be published, letters must include the writer’s first and last names as well as a phone number to verify identity. The
phone number IS NOT published; it is used solely to verify identity and to clarify content, if necessary. Identity of the letter writer must be verified before publication. We want to assure our
readers that a letter is written by the person who signs the letter. The Zapata Times does not allow the use of pseudonyms. Letters are edited for style, grammar, length and civility. No name-call-
DOONESBURY | GARRY TRUDEAU
ing or gratuitous abuse is allowed. Via e-mail, send letters to editorial@lmtonline.com or mail them to Letters to the Editor, 111 Esperanza Drive, Laredo, TX 78041.
SATURDAY, MAY 29, 2010
THE ZAPATA TIMES 5A
PAGE 6A
Zentertainment
SATURDAY, MAY 29, 2010
COMING UP Shakira tickets go on sale Friday Tickets for the much anticipated Shakira concert in October go on sale Friday, June 4. Laredo Energy Arena officials have not released ticket prices, as the concert’s promoter, Live Nation, has not set them. The LEA box office is using the lottery system, so it will not allow early camping out for tickets. The only way to get early presales is through Shakira’s fan club.
Glow Teen Night at Mall del Norte G.B.M., radio personality Kash Kasanova and City Trendz are hosting a Glow Teen Night party Saturday. The event, which will be held in Laredo inside Mall del Norte near Dillard’s, is being touted as an alcoholfree party for teenagers. The first 500 teens will get free glowsticks. Tickets are $10 presale, available at City Trendz inside Mall del Norte or by calling Kash at 744-5274.
Country dances at Lonestar Lonestar Bar and Dancehall is hosting Max Stalling for a Country music concert tonight. Tickets for the show are available at Lonestar, located at the former Exoticas building. For more information, call 729-1642.
Cristian Castro in Nuevo Laredo Mexican singer Cristian Castro will be at the Nuevo Laredo Centro Cultural, or cultural arts center, on
South Texas Food Bank board member co-chairs are Anna Benavides Galo and Kevin Romo.
La Mafia returns to Laredo Friday
Photo by Jennifer Whitney | Special to the Express-News
La Mafia’s lead singer Oscar De La Rosa performs during the band’s 30th Anniversary Concert at the Alamodome Sunday, May 23. La Mafia will be in Laredo next Friday at the Casablanca Convention Center. Tickets are $25 presale. Saturday, June 5. The Centro Cultural is located in the city’s southeast side, off Colosio Boulevard. The concert is free to the public and will start at 6 p.m. It is being promoted as a way for the young to stay away from trouble. Tickets can be obtained at the DIF offices, located at the intersection of Aquiles Serdán and Maclovio Herrera streets, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. A conference featuring Mexican actor Roberto Palazuelos also will take place.
Amber Pacific headlines show Rock band Amber Pacific is headlining a show at The Cool Party, 8501 McPherson Road, on Wednesday,. Amber Pacific, out of Seattle, Wash., comprises band members Will Nutter, Davy Rispoli, Dango, Greg Strong and Jesse Cottam. The event will also feature Sleep for Sleepers, I Am Terrified, Above Reproach, For The Taking and Cloud 9.
Doors for the early show open at 3:30 p.m., and tickets prices are $8 presale and $12 at the door. They are available at Hungry Howie’s Pizza and Flat 5 Studios.
Three Dog Night tickets on sale Concert tickets for the Laredo Energy ArenaSouth Texas Food Bank Empty Bowls IV fundraiser, featuring Three Dog Night, on Aug. 25 at the LEA are already on sale. Tickets are $30, $20 and $15 and are available via ticketmaster and at the LEA box office. Prime tickets on the floor will be sold at in tables of 10. The table seats, which include a meal and access to the silent auction of Empty Bowls artwork, are priced at five levels — $20,000 diamond, $10,000 platinum, $5,000 gold, $2,500 silver and $1,000 bronze. For table seating call the STFB 726-3120. The event honors State Sen. Judith Zaffirini (DLaredo) for her support of the food bank mission.
Houston-based Tejano band La Mafia will be in Laredo next weekend. La Mafia will be at the Casablanca Convention Center along with La Costumbre, Jorge Roel and Grupo Potrillo on Friday, June 4. The event, presented by Melro Enterprise, is in celebration of La Mafia’s 30th anniversary. The band, which has produced multiple hit singles, including “Un Millon de Rosas,” “Nadie,” “Estas Tocando Fuego" and “Vida,” among others, has been touring the world for three decades. Tickets for the concert are $25 presale and available at the Z-93 studios on Jacaman Road. For information, call 724-9800.
LCC exhibit features West Texas artist West Texas may now be home for Christina Kay Garza, but she hasn’t lost her close ties to South Texas, thanks to her unique artistic creations. Garza, a professional artist and instructor of art at Western Texas College in Snyder, will present her artwork for the first time in Laredo during the opening reception for the exhibit “On Familiar Terms” on Monday, from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Yeary Library on Laredo Community College’s Fort McIntosh campus. Art lovers will be able to view the work and meet the artist during the reception. Admission is free. — Laredo Morning Times
Photo by Bob Owen | San Antonio Express-News
Clay Walker performs at the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo in this file photo. Walker is set to head a 14-band festival at the LEA.
Clay Walker to headline fest SPECIAL TO THE TIMES
Laredo Energy Arena officials announced today the upcoming “Deer in the Headlights Music Fest,” which will take place on Saturday, July 10. Featuring 14 bands, “Deer in the Headlights” will be the arena’s first indoor-outdoor music festival. The indoor stage will feature artists Casey Donahue, JR Castillo, Mick Cruz and Diamondback, The Brison Bursey Band, Rob Baird, Whiskey Myers, Zona Jones, Zach Walther and the headliner, Clay Walker. Doors for the daylong festival open at 2 p.m., with the first artist going on the main stage, sponsored by Cricket Wireless, at 2:45 p.m. Miller Lite is sponsoring the outdoor stage, which will feature budding artists
Buddy Vargas, Joey Green and the Turnpike Troubadours, and local favorite The Bottom Line. All tickets will be general admission, with the arena floor open for dancing. The event’s main sponsors are KVTV-CBS 13 and Paul Young Family Chevrolet. Tickets will go on sale Thursday, June 3, at 10 a.m. at a presale price of $20. A special party at the LEA’s Star Bar will last until 10 p.m. and the box office staying open late. Mick Cruz will perform from 9 to 10 p.m. Ticket prices after June 3 will be $30 and $35 on day of event. Tickets are available via Ticketmaster, at the LEA box office, various H.E.B. locations, Guerra Communications, Rumor’s, Casa Raul and Rudy’s BBQ.
SÁBADO 29 DE MAYO DE 2010
Zfrontera
PÁGINA 7A
Agenda en Breve
Iglesia suspende algunas Misas
SÁBADO 29 DE MAYO
Obispo de la Diócesis asegura municipios son peligrosos
LAREDO — Hoy a las 10 a.m. salen a la venta los boletos para la presentación de la WWE en la Laredo Energy Arena el miércoles 28 de julio a las 7 p.m. Algunas de las superestrellas anunciadas son: The Undertaker, Rey Mysterio, The Big Show, Kane, Matt Ardí y Jack Swagger. Los boletos van de 15 dólares a 60 dólares. LAREDO — Pase la tarde en el Planetario Lamar Bruni Vergara de TAMIU y explore “Violent Universe: Catastrophes of the Cosmos” a las 5 p.m., “Attack of the Space Pirates” a las 6 p.m., y el estreno de “Rock on Demand” a las 7 p.m. y 8 p.m. Entrada general es de 5 dólares. Presentaciones estelares cuestan 1 dólar más. NUEVO LAREDO — El Festival del Taco y del Canto es hoy de 4 p.m. a 11 p.m. en la Plaza de la Independencia, entre el Palacio Federal y la Plaza Hidalgo. Habrá al menos 28 puestos de tacos y 15 personas participando en canto. NUEVO LAREDO — Hoy se presenta la obra de teatro infantil “El Secreto de Guiti” a las 10 a.m. y 6 p.m. en el Parque Silao. FORT WORTH- Fort Worth Opera presenta el estreno mundial de ‘Before Night Falls’ de Jorge Martín hoy en el Bass Performance Hall.
POR MIGUEL TIMOSHENKOV TIEMPO DE ZAPATA
NUEVO LAREDO — Tanto se ha apoderado el ambiente de inseguridad en la frontera chica de Tamaulipas que la Diócesis de Nuevo Laredo reportó que hasta un 70% de la feligresía ha dejado de asistir a Misa. La política también ha sido afectada por este hecho, ya que aún siendo época electoral, ningún partido político está realizando campañas. “Los Municipios de Ciudad Mier, Nueva Ciudad Guerrero y Miguel Alemán son peligrosos”, aseguró el Obispo Gustavo Rodríguez Vega. “Nuestra feligresía se abstuvo de asistir a la homilía diaria nocturna y se suspendió”. Ni siquiera se realizan Misas nocturnas para celebrar bodas, XV años ó bautizos. Rodríguez consideró lamentable que no se pueda superar esta etapa de terror, la cual inclusive cobró la vida del candidato panista a la presidencia municipal de Valle Hermoso. Aseguró que pese a la inseguridad, los presbíteros asignados en las parroquias de los municipios de Guerrero, Miguel Alemán, Mier, Camargo, Díaz Ordaz y Valle Hermoso continúan su labor religiosa.
“
No vamos a cerrar los templos en los municipios donde el riesgo es mayor”. GUSTAVO RODRÍGUEZ VEGA, OBISPO DE LA DIÓCESIS DE NL
Reconoció que sí tienen temor pero lo anteponen ya que cumplen como guías religiosos. “Ellos no saldrán de sus parroquias. Estarán al lado de su rebaño”, dijo Rodríguez. “No vamos a cerrar los templos en los municipios donde el riesgo es mayor”. En los templos se observa a familias que acuden a hablar con los sacerdotes sobre sus temores, alegrías y la unión familiar, agregó. También dijo que algunos delincuentes recluidos en penales de Tamaulipas han pretendido extorsionar a sacerdotes. “Pero la recomendación ha sido de que no respondan, cuelguen el teléfono”, dijo Rodríguez. “Lo mismo se pide a la comunidad en general, no asumir ni caer en el temor o el juego de los prisioneros dedicados a este crimen”. Por otra parte, dijo que además de las Mi-
sas, la etapa electoral que se vive está siendo opacada por la inseguridad. Aún con esto, los 77 presbíteros de la Diócesis están invitando a las familias a ejercer su voto el 4 de julio. “Cuando hablo con la feligresía y a título personal les recomiendo que voten”, dijo Rodríguez. Durante la conferencia de prensa, Rodríguez también habló sobre el CENSO 2010 que realizará el Instituto Nacional de Estadística, Geografía e Informática. El CENSO empezará a tomarse a partir del lunes. Aclaró que la Iglesia no se opone al CENSO, y al contrario la orden de la Diócesis es que durante la homilía del domingo los sacerdotes convoquen a los ciudadanos a permitir ser contados. (Localice a Miguel Timoshenkov en el 7282583 ó en mramirez@lmtonline.com)
BENEFICIOS EN MIER
DOMINGO 30 DE MAYO NUEVO LAREDO — Hoy se presenta la obra de teatro infantil “El Secreto de Guiti” a las 10 a.m. y 6 p.m. en Villas de San Miguel.
Piden vacunar mascotas POR MIGUEL TIMOSHENKOV TIEMPO DE ZAPATA
MARTES 1 DE JUNIO LAREDO — Laredo Energy Arena, Jagermeister y 94.9 The Works presentan hoy a Korn, teniendo como invitado especial a 2 Cents. Adquiera su boleto en la taquilla de LEA o en Ticketmaster. El costo es de 34 y 44 dólares (más la cuota de las instalaciones).
MIÉRCOLES 2 DE JUNIO LAREDO — La banda de rock Amber Pacific se presentará en The Cool Party (8501 McPherson) el día de hoy. Las puertas se abrirán a las 3 p.m. También se presentarán Sleep for Sleepers, I Am Terrified, Above Reprocha, For The Taking y Cloud 9. Boletos en preventa a 8 dólares y en la puerta a 12 dólares. Consiga sus boletos en Hungry Howie’s Pizza y Flat 5 Studios.
JUEVES 3 DE JUNIO NUEVO LAREDO — El grupo de teatro TIP se presenta hoy en el programa municipal “Jueves de Teatro”, con la divertida comedia "Cupido hizo Casa en Bravo" a las 8 p.m. en la Casa de la Cultura.
VIERNES 4 DE JUNIO LAREDO — Hoy salen los boletos a la venta para el concierto que ofrecerá Shakira en la Laredo Energy Arena el miércoles 6 de octubre. Adquiéralos llamando al (800) 745-3000 y en Livenation.com
SÁBADO 5 DE JUNIO LAREDO — Bel’s Dance Studio presentará “Undulations”, Belly Dance Show y Expo, el día de hoy a las 7 p.m. en el Student Activity Complex de UISD. La entrada es de 10 dólares para adultos y 5 dólares para niños. LAREDO — Hoy se presenta Pitbull con su gira “Mr. Worldwide’s Carnaval” en el Laredo Energy Arena a las 8 p.m. El costo del boleto es de 24.50, 34.50 y 42 dólares. Hay dos opciones VIP, una de 125 dólares que incluye un póster autografiado por el cantante y otra de 225 dólares que incluye conocer y saludar a Pitbull, entre otras amenidades. NUEVO LAREDO — Hoy se presenta la obra de teatro infantil “El Secreto de Guiti” a las 10 a.m. y 6 p.m. en Las Palabras de Las Torres.
DOMINGO 6 DE JUNIO NUEVO LAREDO — Hoy se presenta la obra de teatro infantil “El Secreto de Guiti” a las 10 a.m. y 6 p.m. en la Explanada Esteban Baca Calderón. FORT WORTH- Fort Worth Opera presenta el estreno mundial de ‘Before Night Falls’ de Jorge Martín hoy en el Bass Performance Hall.
Foto de cortesía | Gobierno de Ciudad Mier
La Presidenta del DIF-Ciudad Mier Isabel Cristina Treviño Ruiz, tercera de derecha a izquierda, observa la organización del tianguis para beneficio de las mujeres de la localidad.
Analizan proyectos con COPLADEM TIEMPO DE ZAPATA
CIUDAD MIER — Al celebrarse la tercera reunión plenaria del Comité de Planeación Municipal 2008-2010 se validaron las obras y acciones del ejercicio 2009 al fondo para la infraestructura social municipal. Igualmente se aprobaron las nueve obras y acciones a ejercerse este año, con costo de 970,000 pesos. Dentro de las obras destacan: Ampliación de drenaje en algunas calles de la ciudad; Construcción de guarniciones de tipo trapezoidales en diferentes calles del municipio; Mantenimiento del Relleno Sanitario; Recarpeteo en las calles del municipio; Alumbrado en el acceso a la colonia Riveras del Álamo; Ampliación de red de agua potable; Encalichamiento; Construcción de banquetas. El Presidente Municipal José Iván Mancias Hinojosa dijo que su administración ha cumplido con las metas contenidas en el Plan Estatal de Desarrollo. “Estrechamos la colaboración entre sociedad y órdenes de gobierno para establecer la agenda para la competitividad e implementar nuestro Programa Municipal de Infraestructura 2009-2010”, dijo Mancias. Dentro de los planes para el 2009 destacan, impulsar la ampliación de la infraestructura y servicios de electrificación, agua potable, alcantarillado y saneamiento; asimismo la impermeabilización del edificio de la Escuela Primaria Francisco Ramírez Canales y la obra de drenaje pluvial en la Escuela México 70.
Oportunidades Este mes el programa Oportunidades benefició a 70 madres de familia quienes acudieron por su apoyo que les ofrece ayuda ali-
Dentro de los planes para el 2009 destacan: impulsar la ampliación de la infraestructura y servicios de electrificación, agua potable, alcantarillado y saneamiento. mentaria y becas educativas. “Esto alivia parcialmente la situación de carencia económica y redistribuye el ingreso”, dijo la Directora del programa a nivel local Rosa Isela Fernández. El promedio de transferencia mensual es de 300 pesos, equivalente al 25 por ciento del ingreso promedio de los hogares en pobreza extrema. “Esta transferencia monetaria funciona como un incentivo vinculado directamente a la asistencia regular de los niños y jóvenes a la escuela y a la asistencia regular a los servicios de salud por parte de los integrantes de la familia”, dijo Fernández. El Programa Oportunidades apoya la alimentación y combate la desnutrición mediante: Transferencias monetarias para ampliar y mejorar el consumo alimenticio; Suplementos alimenticios especiales para niños menores de cinco años y mujeres en periodo de embarazo y lactancia; y, sesiones educativas mensuales sobre nutrición, preparación de alimentos y hábitos sanos de alimentación.
Día del maestro El 15 de mayo, Día del Maestro, el Gobierno Municipal organizó una visita a escuelas para felicitar y agradecer a los profesores activos y jubilados. Mancias dijo que desde el inicio de su administración estableció el compromiso social de reconocer y estimular la labor del ma-
gisterio. Mancias acudió a las escuelas donde se rifaron diferentes artículos entre los maestros.
Tianguis El Sistema para el Desarrollo Integral de la Familia llevó a cabo el 20 de mayo la Expo Mujer 2010 “Unidas de Corazón”, durante la cual se ofreció una Brigada Médico-Asistencial y un Tianguis de Productos Alimenticios. En la brigada médica se prestaron servicios como Papanicolaou, detección oportuna del cáncer de mama. “Me siento muy satisfecha”, dijo la Presidenta del DIF-Mier Isabel Cristina Treviño Ruiz. “Beneficiamos a familias del municipio con estos servicios médicos”. También se ofrecieron 350 despensas a bajo costo.
Registros de nacimientos La Oficina del Registro Civil y el DIF Municipal llevó a cabo la entrega de más de 70 registros de nacimiento tramitados gratuitamente durante la Sexta Campaña de Registros de Nacimiento en abril. Treviño, la Directora del DIF Emilia Higareda y el titular del Registro Civil Jorge Flores Urrutia tuvieron a su cargo la entrega de documentos. La campaña benefició a niños en edad de 0 a 5 años.
NUEVO LAREDO — La vacuna contra la rabia a mascotas es gratuita en esta ciudad, pero las autoridades de salud están preocupadas porque muchos dueños de mascotas no aprovechan este beneficio. El Director del Centro Antirrábico Juan Antonio Salinas dijo que se han recorrido colonias y áreas rurales de la Jurisdicción Sanitaria No. V (desde Nuevo Laredo hasta Mier, Guerrero y Miguel Alemán). En un mes llegan a aplicar hasta 4 mil dosis. Esto ha permitido que no se hayan reportado casos de rabia canina desde el 2002. “Pero somos insistentes en campañas de inmunización a sus mascotas”, dijo Salinas. “Las áreas rurales son susceptibles a la rabia por la vida silvestre”. Agregó que además de las vacunas es importante atender a las mascotas en otros aspectos, como es: desparasitarlos, baños cada semana y el aseo del lugar donde viven. Digo que ayuda rociar fumigantes en el área donde duerme la mascota para que no le surjan garrapatas. (Localice a Miguel Timoshenkov en el 728-2583 ó en mramirez@lmtonline.com)
Colonia tendrá plazuela ESPECIAL PARA TIEMPO DE ZAPATA
CIUDAD MIER — El Fraccionamiento Villas del Cántaro tendrá en breve una Plazuela/Parque de Recreación. “El objetivo es que esta nueva colonia crezca y cuente con un lugar que sirva para diversión de los niños y todas las familias de Mier”, dijo el Presidente Municipal José Iván Mancias Hinojosa. El Director de Obras Públicas Adrián de León dijo que la obra tiene una inversión de 280,000 pesos, de parte del Programa Suma de Voluntades para la Prosperidad Social. La Plazuela contará con banquetas, luminarias, juegos infantiles, pasto y bancas. “Este parque traerá grandes beneficios a los habitantes de este fraccionamiento que no contaban con algún lugar específico para la diversión de los pequeños”, dijo Mancias. El parque se espera este listo a la brevedad posible.
8A THE ZAPATA TIMES
SATURDAY, MAY 29, 2010
3-mile chase leads to pot By DENISE BLAZ THE ZAPATA TIMES
An attempt at a routine traffic stop on FM Road 496 earlier this week ended up leading authorities on a chase, and to the seizure of illegal drugs after the driver refused to stop, according to court records. According to a criminal complaint, the driver of the vehicle, Idelfonso Guardian, 18, was arrested for unlawfully possessing with intent to distribute a controlled substance. “Zapata County deputies were able to detain Guardian after he crashed the vehicle into the brush off of the road,” the complaint read. “Deputies discovered several cellophane wrapped bundles in plain sight in the bed of the pickup.” Authorities confiscated 811 pounds that field-tested positive for marijuana, the complaint states. The case started at about 1:40 p.m. when a Zapata County deputy attempted a
traffic stop on a 2009 Chevrolet pickup with Texas license plates. The driver refused to stop, the complaint states. Sgt. Mario Elizondo said a chase then ensued west on FM 496. The chase lasted for about 3 miles before the vehicle crashed into a fence just before the driver would have reached FM 3074. Elizondo said a man jumped out of the vehicle and tried to run from deputies, but he was arrested after a brief foot chase. Guardian was identified as the driver, according to deputies. During questioning, Guardian admitted to being hired to transport the narcotics in exchange for $1,200, the complaint states. He is being held at a federal facility on a $150,000 bond. His next scheduled court appearance is set for June 9 before Judge Diana Saldaña. (Denise Blaz may be reached at 728-2547 or dblaz@lmtonline.com)
Cam now ‘net sensation By BEN NUCKOLS AND GREG BLUESTEIN ASSOCIATED PRESS
COVINGTON, La. — The hypnotic video of mud, gas and oil billowing from the seafloor has become an Internet sensation as Americans watch to see whether BP’s effort to plug the gusher in the Gulf of Mexico succeeds. BP warned on Friday that it could be Sunday or later before the outcome of the cliffhanger becomes clear. And scientists cautioned that few conclusions can be drawn with any certainty from watching the spillcam coverage of the “top kill.” But they said the video seemed to suggest BP was gaining ground. In an operation that began Wednesday, BP has been pumping heavy drilling mud into the blownout well in hopes of choking it off and putting an end to what is already the biggest oil spill in U.S. history, at anywhere from 18 million gallons to 40 million. Coast Guard Adm. Thad
Photo by Evan Vucci | AP
President Barack Obama, left, picks up a "tar ball" Friday as LaFourche Parish president Charlotte Randolph, center, and U.S. Coast Guard Admiral Thad Allen look on in Port Fourchon, La. Allen said the denser-thanwater mud was able to push down the oil and gas coming up at great force from underground, but it had not overwhelmed the gusher. The trick is to pump the mud with such force that it stops the upward flow of oil, and it’s
impossible to know how much mud that will take. BP chief operating officer Doug Suttles said Friday the top kill was going basically as planned, though the pumping has stopped several times. “The fact that it’s stopped and started is not
unusual,” Suttles said. “We’re going to stay at this as long as we need to.” He said the company has also shot in assorted junk, including metal pieces and rubber balls, to try to counter pressure from the well.
MASS Continued from Page 1A In the churches, families are turning to their priests to talk about their fears, hopes and the importance of the family unit, he added. The bishop also said that there have been instances where criminals have sought to extort money from priests, perhaps pretending to hold someone hostage or threatening an
attack if they’re not paid, but that the person making the threat is actually in prison. “The recommendation has been to not respond, to hang up the telephone,” Rodriguez said. “The same is requested of the public. They should not fall prey to fear nor into the games played by these prisoners dedicated to this kind of crime.”
Meanwhile, the church is doing its part to encourage the public not to give into fear in regard to elections, either. All 77 priests in the Diocese of Nuevo Laredo are encouraging their church members to vote on Election Day, July 4. “Whenever I speak with the faithful and others, I recommend they vote,” Rodriguez
said. At the news conference, the bishop also emphasized that the church is encouraging Catholics to participate in the Mexican government’s 2010 Census, which begins Monday. A minor controversy had erupted recently in which a letter published in a Catholic magazine was interpreted by some
as telling Catholics not to participate. That is far from the truth, Rodriguez said. He added that priests across the diocese will use their sermons Sunday to encourage the faithful to participate in the Census. (Reach Miguel Timoshenkov at 728-2583 or mramirez@lmtonline.com)
SATURDAY, MAY 29, 2010
THE ZAPATA TIMES 9A
JUAN P. RODRIGUEZ Juan P. Rodriguez, 38, passed away Friday, May 21, 2010, at Laredo Medical Center in Laredo. Mr. Rodriguez is preceded in death by his father, Juan Rodriguez. Mr. Rodriguez is survived by his son, Juan Daniel Rodriguez; former wife, Idalia Bustamante; mother, Amparo L. Rodriguez; brother, Carlos (Yvette) Rodriguez; sisters, Martha (Daniel) Medina and Gladisbel (Roberto III) Salinas and numerous nephews, nieces, and friends. Visitation hours were Sunday, May 23, 2010, from 6 to 9 p.m. with a rosary at 7 p.m. at Rose Garden Funeral Home. The funeral procession departed Monday, May 24, 2010, at 9:30 for a 10 a.m. funeral Mass at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church. Committal services followed at Zapata County Cemetery. Pallbearers were Carlos Rodriguez, Roberto Salinas, Danny Medina, Juan Jose Benavides Sr., Juan Jose Be-
navides Jr., Jose Garcia, Rigoberto Sendejo, Victor Chapa and Amador Bustamante. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.rosegardenfuneralhome.com. Funeral arrangements were under the direction of Rose Garden Funeral Home, Daniel A. Gonzalez, funeral director, 2102 U.S. 83, Zapata.
TV host Art Linkletter dies By LYNN ELBER ASSOCIATED PRESS
LOS ANGELES — Art Linkletter, who encouraged both kids and grownups to say the “darndest things” during his decades as a genial and but gently mischievious television personality, has died at age 97. The host of “People Are Funny” and “House Party” of the 1950s and ’60s died Wednesday at his home in the Bel-Air section of Los Angeles. “He lived a long, full, pure life, and the Lord had need for him,” said his sonin-law, Art Hershey, the husband of Sharon Linkletter Hershey said. Linkletter had been ill “in the last few weeks time, but bear in mind he was 97 years old. He wasn’t eating well, and the aging process
took him,” Hershey said. Linkletter hadn’t been diagnosed with any lifethreatening LINKLETTER disease. Linkletter was known on TV for his funny interviews with children and ordinary folks. He also collected comments in best-selling books. “Art Linkletter’s House Party,” one of television’s longest-running variety shows, debuted on radio in 1944 and was seen on CBSTV from 1952 to 1969. “On ‘House Party’ I would talk to you and bring out the fact that you had been letting your boss beat you at golf over a period of months as part of your campaign to get a raise,” Linkletter wrote.
RUFINO ZAPATA JR. Rufino Zapata Jr., 71, passed away Tuesday, May 18, 2010, at Doctor’s Hospital. Mr. Zapata is preceded in death by parents, Rufino (Gregoria) Zapata; brothers, Ramon (Maria) Zapata, Juventino Zapata, Amador (Alma) Zapata, Enrique Zapata and Ruben O. Zapata; in-laws, Joaquin and Maria Z. Garza; and a brother-in-law, Oscar Treviño. Mr. Zapata is survived by his wife, Elvira G. Zapata; son, Rufino Zapata III; daughter, America R. Zapata; sisters, Ernestina Z. Treviño and Manuela Z. (Malvin) Brown; and by numerous nephews, nieces and friends. Visitation hours were held Friday, May 21, 2010, from 6 to 9 p.m. with a rosary at 7 p.m. at Rose Garden Funeral Home. The funeral procession departed Saturday, May 22, 2010, at 9:15 for a 10 a.m. funeral Mass at Santa Anna Mission in Falcon.
Committal services followed at Falcon Cemetery. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.rosegardenfuneralhome.com. Funeral arrangements were under the direction of Rose Garden Funeral Home, Daniel A. Gonzalez, funeral director, 2102 U.S. 83, Zapata.
EDUARDO YZAGUIRRE JR. Eduardo Yzaguirre Jr., 89, passed away Sunday, May 23, 2010, at his residence in Falcon. Mr. Yzaguirre is preceded in death by his parents, Eduardo Yzaguirre and Victoria Yzaguirre; brothers, Bernardo (Ida) Yzaguirre, Tomas Yzaguirre and Loreto Yzaguirre; and sisters, Fantina (Francisco) De Los Santos, Elva (Oscar) Ramirez and Hortencia Y. (Ramiro) Hinojosa. Mr. Yzaguirre is survived by his wife, Elisa Dora Ramirez; son, Eduardo (Odilia) Yzaguirre III; grandchildren, Elisa M. Yzaguirre, Eduardo S. Yzaguirre and Eliana R. Yzaguirre; and by numerous nephews, nieces and friends. Visitation hours were held Monday, May 24, 2010, from 5 to 7 p.m. with a rosary at 6 p.m. at Rose Garden Funeral Home. The funeral procession departed Tuesday, May 25, 2010, at 9:30 for a funeral Mass at 10 a.m. at Santa
Anna Mission in Falcon. Burial services followed at Falcon Cemetery, including full military honors by the American Legion Post 486 Color Guard. Funeral arrangements were under the direction of Rose Garden Funeral Home, Daniel A. Gonzalez, funeral director, 2102 U.S. 83, Zapata.
ROSAURA MENDOZA Rosaura Mendoza, 79, passed away Wednesday, May 19, 2010, at Laredo Specialty Hospital. Ms. Mendoza is preceded in death by her husband, Francisco Luis Mendoza; parents, Manuel and Guadalupe Melendez; in-laws, Francisco and Piedad Mendoza; and a sister-in-law, Sofia Mendoza. Ms. Mendoza is survived by her sisters, Gloria Martinez, Tula Torres, Elvira Guerra, Estela Mendoza and Maria A. Steubing; nephews, Jose F. (Frances) Mendoza and Manuel A. (Irma) Mendoza; nieces, Manuela (Homero) Gonzalez, Lourdes (Angel) Lopez, Elsa (Heriberto) Vela, Sara (Rolando) Perez and Benita (Israel) Garcia; and by numerous other relatives and friends. Pallbearers were Jorge Mendoza, Jose F. Mendoza Jr., Jose Homero Gonzalez Jr., Eric Gonzalez, Angel Lopez Jr. and Jorge Mendoza Jr. Visitation hours were held Thursday, May 20, 2010, from 6 to 9 p.m. with a rosary at 7 p.m. at Rose Garden Funeral Home.
The funeral procession departed Friday, May 21, 2010, at 9:45 for a 10 a.m. funeral Mass at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church. Committal services followed at Zapata County Cemetery. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.rosegardenfuneralhome.com Funeral arrangements were under the direction of Rose Garden Funeral Home, Daniel A. Gonzalez, funeral director, 2102 U.S. 83, Zapata.
10A THE ZAPATA TIMES
SATURDAY, MAY 29, 2010
Suspect to be deported By JAY LINDSAY ASSOCIATED PRESS
BOSTON — A man arrested in Massachusetts during the probe into the failed Times Square bombing has been ordered deported to his native Pakistan. U.S. immigration Judge Robin Feder made the ruling Thursday in the case of Aftab Khan, according to Kathryn Mattingly of the
Executive Office for Immigration Review. Khan was one of three men arrested on immigration charges May 13 and suspected of supplying funds to the primary suspect, Faisal Shahzad, through an informal money transfer network. But authorities said the men may not have known how the money would be used. Khan has 30 days to appeal Feder’s decision and
will not be deported before then, Gillian Brigham, an Immigration and Custom Enforcement spokeswoman, said Friday. A lawyer in the office of Khan’s attorney, Saher Macarius, said the office hadn’t received Thursday’s decision. A copy of the decision, which must be obtained by a Freedom of Information Act request, was not immediately available Friday.
WALL Continued from Page 1A is in his court.” According to Commissioner Gabriel Villarreal, the encroachment of Ruiz’s property was discovered after a survey was conducted for the new street paving project now underway in San Ygnacio. Other encroachments also were found, Villarreal said. “Our lawyer sent him a letter to vacate the property,” Villarreal said. “He’s in the middle of the street.” According to Figueroa, Ruiz was sent a notice of the encroachment and a second notice to vacate the property in 30 days. Ruiz insists he has proof he is not encroaching on county property and that there is no need to tear down the wall and clear that strip of land, which also includes several plants, trees and a shed belonging to an older couple who rent the property from Ruiz. The couple, who live at the site, said their concerns have not been taken into consideration. “It’s upset my entire retirement,” said Ruiz’s tenant, retired Air Force Col. Bill Kant. Ruiz has been battling the county for some time over the issue, and has addressed the Zapata County Commissioners Court at least twice. The county has tabled the discussion more than once. Not only is the county wrong in claiming his property, Ruiz said, it’s also spending too much money on this case that could be spent elsewhere. The county wants to put
Ulysses S. Romero/
County officials say a wall at the end of Lincoln Avenue sits on county property, while the land owner states it is on his property. a boat ramp next to the property at the dead end of Lincoln Avenue. According to Villarreal, a boat ramp is in his future plans for San Ygnacio but funding hasn’t been allocated or a deadline been set for the construction. The decision is still up to the Commissioners Court, but first the street needs to be open to see if the construction of a boat ramp is feasible, he said. “Regardless if we’re going to build it or not he is still in county property,” Villarreal said. “I need to work on the streets.” “I need to get the property back to the county,” Villarreal continued. But Ruiz disagrees. “I have the proof that the survey is wrong,” Ruiz said. “I’m going to have to do everything I can to stop it from going to litiga-
tion.” “They’re trying to make a road to the river,” he continued. “To make a road there is impractical because there is no room for a truck and a boat trailer attached to the truck to make a U-turn.” According to Ruiz there are four other boat ramps in San Ygnacio on Grant, Washington, Uribe and Agua streets giving people access to the water already. While an exact date was not available Friday, it appears the 30-day deadline has passed. The issue likely will be addressed by Commissioners Court at its next meeting in June. It’s up to the commissioners to decide whether to pursue litigation. (Lorraine L. Rodriguez may be reached at 7282557.)
LIBRARY Continued from Page 1A The library encountered some heavy flooding in April when the sewer overflowed from the bathroom into the library and the facility had to be closed temporarily. Garcia interrupted a Commissioner’s Court meeting before they went into executive session to advise them of the flooding and requested that someone clean it and that the problem be corrected. The Zapata County Waste Water Department cleaned up the mess that day, but the underlying problems remain.
Tuesday’s meeting with Zapata County Project Coordinator Mario GonzalezDavis was just preliminary, and no specifics have been discussed, officials said. “As we meet we’ll keep the community updated,” Ramirez said. According to Garcia sev-
eral people and foundations will be asked for support, including the Guadalupe and Lilia Martinez Foundation and the Meadows Foundation. “It looks very positive,” Garcia said. (Lorraine L. Rodriguez may be reached at (956) 7282557.)
VETERANS Continued from Page 1A salute and Taps will be closing the ceremony. “It’s a special occasion bringing families together and honor veterans on this special day,” Arambula said. After the ceremony, VFW will be hosting a traditional breakfast of biscuits and gravy at the VFW Hall on Texas 16. Karran Westerman, American Legion Auxiliary president, said there was a funeral service
After the ceremony, VFW will be hosting a traditional breakfast of biscuits and gravy at the VFW Hall on Texas 16. Tuesday for World War II veteran Eduardo Yzaguirre Jr., 89, so veterans need to be honored, especially since there aren’t that many WWII veterans left and most of them are in their 90s. “A lot of them spilled
their blood for our country and we need to honor them,” Westerman said. “Our children need to understand we have our freedom because of them.” (Lorraine L. Rodriguez may be reached at (956)7282557.)
SATURDAY, MAY 29, 2010
ON THE WEB: THEZAPATATIMES.COM
Sports&Outdoors FRENCH OPEN
MERCY-BOSOM BUDDIES ALL-STAR GAMES
SHARAPOVA, HENIN MEET EARLY AT ROLAND GARROS
Photo by Clara Sandoval | The Zapata Times
Zapata senior Kat Garcia (7) competes in the Mercy-Bosom Buddies all-star volleyball game at St. Augustine High School last week.
Photo by Michel Euler | AP
Maria Sharapova returns the ball to Kirsten Flipkens during a second-round match for the French Open at Roland Garros Stadium in Paris on Friday. Sharapova won to set up a third-round meeting with fellow former world No. 1 Justine Henin.
Former No. 1’s clash in French Open today By HOWARD FENDRICH ASSOCIATED PRESS
P
ARIS — So much has transpired in the nearly 21/2 years since Maria Sharapova and Justine Henin last played each other. Sharapova needed right shoulder surgery and was off the tour for 10
months, then missed time with a right elbow injury. Henin abruptly announced her retirement and stayed away for 20 months, then returned, happier off the court and, so far, almost as good on it. The two former No. 1s, owners of a combined 10 Grand Slam titles, set up an attention-worthy showdown in the French Open’s third
round today by wrapping up matter-of-fact victories on a sun-soaked, busy Friday. “Comes very early, of course, third round,” Henin said. “But I feel ready for it.” Relentless rain Thursday created a backlog of matches, meaning that
See FRENCH OPEN PAGE 2B
Nadal returns to form on clay By HOWARD FENDRICH ASSOCIATED PRESS
PARIS — The latest player to absorb a lopsided loss against Rafael Nadal on clay offered a novel idea for how to thwart the four-time French Open champion. Asked how many men are capable of beating Nadal the way he’s playing at the moment, Argentina’s Horacio Zeballos replied: “Maybe two or three.” Then, after pausing for effect, Zeballos added: “But at the same time; playing together. If they play together, maybe they can win.” Rim shot! Nadal produced a second consecutive easy victory at Roland Garros,
See NADAL PAGE 2B
Photo by Lionel Cironneau | AP
Rafael Nadal returns the ball to Horacio Zeballos during their second-round match for the French Open at Roland Garros Stadium in Paris on Friday. Nadal won, 6-2, 6-2, 6-3, for his second consecutive straight-set victory at the tournament.
All-stars represent Zapata By CLARA SANDOVAL THE ZAPATA TIMES
LAREDO — Zapata was well-represented at the ninth annual Mercy-Bosom Buddies all-star games that took place last week at St. Augustine High School. Ashley Martinez participated in the girls’ basketball all-star game Tuesday, while Kat Garcia and Loralee Rivera played in the volleyball game the ensuing night. Martinez hit the court for the West all-stars, joining players from United, Nixon and United South High School. Martinez and company took control from the inception of the game never trailing from the opening tip. The West all-stars built a halftime lead and never looked back as they continued to dominate in the second half on their way to a commanding victory. “It was fun to come here
and played with girls I had never played before,” Martinez said. “I had a good time, and it was for a great cause.” All the proceeds from the Mercy-Bosom Buddies all-star games went to the Mercy Cancer Assistance Program, which helps indigent women pay for treatment. The 2010 all-star games raised over $8,000 that will ease the financial burden on these women. In the past nine years, the Mercy-Bosom Buddies all-star games have raised $65,000 for the Laredo community and surrounding area. On Wednesday, the volleyball all-stars took center stage, with Zapata sending two athletes. Garcia and Rivera, who are accustomed to playing on the same team, were pitted against each other in the volleyball all-star game.
See ALL-STARS PAGE 2B
NCAA
Calhoun, UConn accused of eight recruiting infractions By PAT EATON-ROBB ASSOCIATED PRESS
STORRS, Conn. — Connecticut coach Jim Calhoun and the men’s basketball program he took from obscurity to national titles have been accused of eight major NCAA infractions, with investigators citing hundreds of improper calls and texts from UConn staff to recruits. The school released a notice from the NCAA on Friday that lays out the allegations against the Hall-of-Fame coach, his staff and the school. Besides the calls and texts, the accusations include giving recruits improper benefits and improperly distri-
buting free tickets to high school coaches and others. Calhoun is cited for failing to promote an atmosphere of compliance. “It’s not exactly, certainly anywhere near the high point of my career, as a matter of fact it’s certainly one of the lowest points at any time that you are accused of doing something,” said Calhoun, who has led the Huskies since 1986 and taken them to the Final Four three times. “It’s a very serious matter.” Athletic director Jeff Hathaway offered support for Calhoun and defended the university. “Let me be clear,” he said. “The University of Connecticut is fully committed to NCAA
rules compliance and takes this matter very seriously. With regard to coach Calhoun, he personally has a long-standing demonstrated commitment to NCAA rules compliance.”
Miles investigation The allegations come at the end of a 15-month investigation into the recruiting of former player Nate Miles, who was expelled from UConn in October 2008 without ever playing a game for the Huskies. He was charged with violating a restraining or-
See UCONN PAGE 2B
Photo by Jessica Hill | AP
Connecticut basketball Hathaway, center, and related matters, listen versity says the NCAA basketball program.
head coach Jim Calhoun, right, Director of Athletics Jeff Rick Evrard, the University’s outside counsel for NCAAat a news conference in Storrs, Conn., Friday. The unihas found eight violations in the school’s men’s college
PAGE 2B
Zscores
TRANSACTIONS BASEBALL Major League Baseball MLB: Fined Tampa Bay OF Carl Crawford and manager Joe Maddon undisclosed amounts for game ejections during a May 25 game against Boston. American League BOSTON RED SOX: Placed OF Jacoby Ellsbury on the 15-day DL. Recalled RHP Scott Atchison from Pawtucket (IL). DETROIT TIGERS: Reinstated OF Carlos Guillen from the 15-day DL. Optioned INF Danny
Worth to Toledo (IL). NEW YORK YANKEES: Activated OF Curtis Granderson from the 15-day DL. Designated OF Randy Winn for assignment. National League CINCINNATI REDS: Recalled RHP Sam LeCure from Louisville (IL). Optioned RHP Enerio Del Rosario to Louisville. HOUSTON ASTROS: Placed RHP Bud Norris on the 15-day DL. Recalled LHP Gustavo Chacin and LHP Wesley Wright from Round Rock (PCL). Optioned INF Oswaldo Navarro to Round Rock. MILWAUKEE BREWERS: Recalled OF Adam Stern from Nashville (PCL). PITTSBURGH PIRATES: Placed RHP Charlie
Morton on the 15-day DL. Selected RHP Steven Jackson from Indianapolis (IL). Eastern League ALTOONA CURVE: Announced LHP Corey Hamman was promoted to Indianapolis (IL). Announced LHP Jack Taschner was added to the roster. American Association GRAND PRAIRIE AIRHOGS: Signed RHP James Morrison. PENSACOLA PELICANS: Released OF Adam Darby. SHREVEPORT-BOSSIER CAPTAINS: Released RHP Jason Herman. Can-Am League NEW JERSEY JACKALS: Released LHP Evan
SATURDAY, MAY 29, 2010 Teague. Signed LHP Luis Fernandez. Frontier League EVANSVILLE OTTERS: Signed RHP James Maxwell and RHP Nathan Stewart. FLORENCE FREEDOM: Activated SS Richard Martines from the suspended list. Released OF Hunter Owen. KALAMAZOO KINGS: Signed LHP Andre Benjamin. Placed RHP Dan Baerlocher on the 14day injured list. LAKE ERIE CRUSHERS: Released RHP Billy Kitchen and RHP Chris Smith. FOOTBALL NFL CHICAGO BEARS: Signed S Major Wright to a
four-year contract. HOUSTON TEXANS: Signed CB Sherrick McManis. SEATTLE SEAHAWKS: Waived RB LenDale White. HOCKEY NHL ANAHEIM DUCKS: Signed LW Brandon McMillan to a three-year contract. Acquired a 2010 sixth-round draft pick from Pittsburgh for the rights to G Mattias Modig. CAROLINA HURRICANES: Signed F Jiri Tlusty and D Jay Harrison to one-year contracts. MONTREAL CANADIENS: Agreed to terms with D Kyle Klubertanz on a one-year contract. NASHVILLE PREDATORS: Signed D Roman Josi
and G Atte Engren to entry-level contracts. TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING: Signed D Mark Barberio to a three-year contract. ECHL VICTORIA SALMON KINGS: Signed general manager and coach Mark Morrison to a contract extension through the 2011-12 season. COLLEGE ARKANSAS: Named Casey Glass assistant strength and conditioning coach. DAVIDSON: Named Michele Savage women’s basketball coach. DELAWARE: Named Jake Olkkola associate director of athletics for recreation services. PITTSBURGH: Named Pat Skerry men’s assistant basketball coach.
And he’s compiling a new winning streak at Roland Garros after his 31-match run ended in a fourth-round loss to eventual finalist Robin Soderling a year ago. So Nadal’s career record at the French Open stands at 33-1. “I don’t know if I’m playing my best tennis today,” Nadal said, “but I think I have almost reached this level for several months.” Now Hewitt will try, once again, to get the better of Nadal.
And, notwithstanding Zeballos’ theory about how to beat the man nicknamed the King of Clay, Hewitt will have to deal with Nadal 1on-1. “That’s the reason you play — to get opportunities to play the best players in the world. In Grand Slams, I feel like I’ve put myself in a position my whole career that’s it’s taken the best players most times in a Grand Slam to beat me,” said Hewitt. “Hopefully I can give him a good match.”
NADAL Continued from Page 1B beating the 44th-ranked Zeballos 6-2, 6-2, 6-3 Friday in a match delayed by a day because of rain. The Spaniard has lost 13 games on his way into the third round, where he will face another former No. 1, two-time major champion Lleyton Hewitt. “I know him well,” Nadal said. They’ve met nine times in all, and Nadal not only leads 5-4, but he’s won their past four matches and eliminated Hewitt at the French
Open in 2006, 2007 and 2009. “I would be surprised if he did anything different. He cleaned me up, last few times,” said the 28th-seeded Hewitt, who advanced Friday with a 1-6, 6-3, 6-4, 2-6, 6-3 victory over Uzbekistan’s Denis Istomin. Thinking ahead to taking on Nadal, Hewitt added: “He’s obviously very dominant, especially on this surface. I’m going to have to go out there and execute what I want to do — and do it bloody well.”
Nadal is attempting to become the second man to win five French Open titles; Bjorn Borg holds the record of six. After dropping six games against an 18-year-old French wild-card entry in the first round, Nadal complained that he had played badly. And Friday? “I improved a little bit. I played a little bit better. But sure, not perfect, no?” the No. 2-seeded Nadal said. “That’s always important —
to play a little bit better every day, no?” His performance was quite clean against fellow left-hander Zeballos. Nadal made a mere 12 unforced errors and lost serve only once, in the seventh game of the third set. He immediately broke back, then served out the match. The 1-hour, 44-minute victory kept Nadal unbeaten on clay in tour matches in 2010 — 17-0, including Masters Series titles at Monte Carlo, Rome and Madrid.
FRENCH OPEN Continued from Page 1B nearly every big name in tennis was swinging a racket somewhere around Roland Garros a day later. Both Williams sisters; Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal; Novak Djokovic, Andy Murray, Lleyton Hewitt — all played and won. The only upset of real significance came when defending champion Svetlana Kuznetsova lost 6-3, 2-6, 6-4 to 30th-seeded Maria Kirilenko in a third-round match that lasted nearly 21/2 hours. Even that wasn’t exactly shocking, when you consider Kirilenko already beat Kuznetsova on clay at Rome this month and knocked out Sharapova at the Australian Open in January. Plus, Kuznetsova arrived in Paris with a losing record this year and barely eked through the second round by saving four match points. “I have to move on. I have to grow and to improve,” said Kuznetsova, who will fall out of the top 10 in the rankings for the first time in four years. “I didn’t come here with my best game, but I gave it my all.” With so many other top players still around, some must start facing each other. Four-time French Open champion Nadal meets past
Wimbledon and U.S. Open winner Hewitt today. That is scheduled to be followed in the main stadium by Sharapova vs. Henin, two women with decidedly different ways of looking at their most recent encounter, a straight-set win by Sharapova in the 2008 Australian Open quarterfinals. It turned out to be Henin’s last Grand Slam match before her hiatus. “It seems so far away. I mean, even seems like it never existed, that moment,” the Belgian said after eliminating 79th-ranked Klara Zakopalova of the Czech Republic 6-3, 6-3. “I didn’t want to be on the court anymore at that time, and now I have a lot of motivation to be out there and to fight and try to keep winning.” Here is Sharapova’s take: “Actually, feels like we never left. Or it was just yesterday. That’s so funny. It was a couple of years ago, and here we are. We’re back. It’s a different Slam, but it’s the same drill.” Like Henin’s second-round match, Sharapova’s was halted in the second set because of darkness Thursday night. Like Henin, Sharapova wasn’t challenged much in a 6-3, 6-3 victory, hers coming against 71st-ranked Kir-
sten Flipkens of Belgium. Clay never has been the 6-foot-2 Sharapova’s preferred surface; she’s only once been as far as the semifinals in seven previous trips to the French Open, while she won each of the other Grand Slam tournaments. The 5-foot-53/4 Henin, in contrast, excels at Roland Garros, where she has earned four of her seven major titles and owns winning streaks of 23 matches and 39 sets. They’re forced to face off this early because Sharapova is seeded 12th, and Henin 22nd — far lower than both have been, but a consequence of all those matches they missed over the past two seasons. Henin, remember, is competing at the French Open for the first time since 2007, when she won a third consecutive championship. “We have different features and qualities, of course. She is tall. She can be very powerful. She can be a slugger when she hits the ball,” said Henin, who has won six of nine matches against Sharapova. “There’s one thing we share ... which is: We are winners. We are fighters. With her, it’s never over.” Other women’s third-round
matchups today include No. 1 Serena Williams against No. 29 Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of Russia, and No. 4 Jelena Jankovic against No. 27 Alona Bondarenko. Williams needed all of 55 minutes to overwhelm unseeded Julia Goerges of Germany 6-1, 6-1 Friday, while Pavlyuchenkova beat Jill Craybas of Providence, R.I., 6-4, 6-1. “I can learn a lot, like, ‘OK, what am I doing today? How can I get them to all be like that?”’ Williams said. “Those are the questions that I ask and I try to answer.” Her older sister, second-seeded Venus, is a step ahead, already moving into the French Open’s fourth round for the first time since 2006 with a 6-3, 6-4 victory over No. 26 Dominika Cibulkova, a semifinalist last year. Afterward, Venus declared that when this French Open ends, the buzz-worthy, black-lace, corsetlike dress that she designed and has worn for each match “will be retired.” “I mean, as great as the design is,” she explained, “I really want the focus to be on the tennis.” Her next opponent will be No. 15 Aravane Rezai or No. 19 Nadia Petrova, whose match was
stopped because of darkness at 7all in the third set. Women reaching the fourth round included No. 3-seeded Caroline Wozniacki, No. 5 Elena Dementieva, No. 14 Flavia Pennetta, No. 17 Francesca Schiavone and 131st-ranked qualifier Chanelle Scheepers, the first South African woman to make it this far at the French Open since Amanda Coetzer in 1997. Defending champion Federer eased into the fourth round by defeating 165th-ranked qualifier Julian Reister of Germany 6-4, 6-0, 6-4. The man Federer beat in last year’s final, No. 5 Robin Soderling, also advanced, along with No. 4 Murray, No. 8 Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, No. 15 Tomas Berdych and No. 20 Stanislas Wawrinka. Tsonga is the last Frenchman still playing; Berdych’s 6-2, 6-2, 6-1 victory over No. 17 John Isner of Tampa, Fla., means Andy Roddick and Robby Ginepri are the only U.S. men left; and the two remaining Swiss men will square off when Wawrinka plays Federer, his pal, mentor and gold-medal-winning doubles partner at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. “He’s no longer asking for tips,” Federer said, “which is a good sign.”
ALL-STARS Continued from Page 1B Garcia suited up for the West squad, and Rivera played for the East team. The West volleyball all-stars topped the East all-stars in four sets, 25-23, 26-28, 25-27 and 27-25, to complete the sweep of the allstar contests in favor of the west teams.
Tuesday night, the West allstars picked up wins in boys’ and girls’ basketball. Rivera and the East squad looked like the early favorite to take the game as they jumped out to a 15-8 lead before Garcia and the West team mounted a comeback to take the game 25-23.
Rivera, who played primarily in the back row, rallied her East team in the second game to come from behind after falling 10 points down. The game was knotted up 23 apiece, and no team took advantage of the other’s miscues on the court.
The East squeezed out a 28-26 set to even up the match. Garcia and the West rebounded to take games three and four for the victory and make it a West all-star sweep. “This game was fun, and I had a great time,” Garcia said. “It was fun to represent Zapata at
these all-star games. I was excited that my team won.” Added Rivera, “It was a great game, and it was fun to see all theses athletes from different schools here.” (Clara Sandoval can be reached at csandovalzapatatimes@gmail.com)
UCONN Continued from Page 1B der in a case involving a woman who claimed he assaulted her. The NCAA alleges 160 impermissible telephone calls and at least 191 impermissible text messages between recruits and coaches, including assistants Beau Archibald, Patrick Sellers, Andre LeFler, associate head coach George Blaney, and thenassistant Tom Moore, who is now the head coach at Quinnipiac. Documents previously released by the school also showed calls between Nochimson and Calhoun. Messages seeking comment were left for Moore at Quinnipiac. UConn is to appear before the governing body on Oct. 15 to respond. Attorney Rick Evrard, an outside counsel who advises UConn on NCAA-related matters, said the school likely will spend the next three months reviewing the allegations. He said if the school confirms them, it is obligated to impose its own sanctions. Evrard said that, in cases such as UConn’s, penalties most often affect recruiting and could include the loss of scholarships. They don’t usually include a ban on postseason play or the forfeiting of any games when there was no competitive advan-
tage obtained from the violations, he said. Still, recruiting violations can devastate a program. Indiana overhauled its famous basketball program — from which it hasn’t recovered — after former coach Kelvin Sampson was forced out in February 2008 when more than 100 impermissible calls to recruits came to light. Sampson had already been sanctioned for recruiting violations while he was the coach at Oklahoma. Among the allegations against UConn is that Archibald and Sellers provided false and misleading information to NCAA investigators. Sellers and Archibald, who served as director of basketball operations, have both resigned. Hathaway said Archibald left last week and Sellers quit on Sunday.
Statements released Both men released statements Friday saying they needed to devote their full attention to the allegations against them. “Coaching is my passion and something I have spent many years of enjoyment doing,” Sellers said. “I want the record to reflect this and for the people to see the respect and
Photo by Jessica Hill | AP
In this Oct. 16, 2009, file photo, Connecticut men’s basketball coach Jim Calhoun, right, gestures as he watches a slam dunk competition with assistant coach Patrick Sellers in Storrs, Conn. integrity that I will show toward the process in the months ahead.” Calhoun has coached 24 seasons at UConn and 38 overall, compiling a record of 823-358 that includes two national titles and another trip to the Final Four in 2009. He recently signed a five-year, $13 million contract. UConn was just 18-16 last season and lost in the second round of the NIT,
as Calhoun faced an undisclosed medical problem. He took a medical leave of absence in January and missed seven games. He also has been treated for cancer three times during his UConn career, and last summer was hospitalized after breaking several ribs during a charity bike ride. The biggest blemish on the program until now came in 1996, when UConn
was stripped of its NCAA Tournament run to the regional semifinals and ordered to return $90,970 in tournament revenue because two players accepted plane tickets from a sports agent. But this is the first time the program has received a letter from the NCAA accusing the school of major violations, Evrard said. The case has no impact on the other athletic programs at UConn, such as its national champion women’s basketball team. “I am confident that the university will appropriately address and respond to this matter and continue cooperating fully with the NCAA as this process moves forward,” University President Michael Hogan said in a statement.
University citing UConn as an institution was cited for not adequately monitoring “the conduct and administration of the men’s basketball staff in the areas of: telephone records, representatives of the institution’s athletics interests; and, complimentary admissions or discretionary tickets.” The NCAA and the school have been investigating the program since shortly after a report by
Yahoo! Sports in March 2009 that former team manager Josh Nochimson helped guide Miles to Connecticut, giving him lodging, transportation, meals and representation. As a former team manager, Nochimson is considered a representative of UConn’s athletic interests by the NCAA and prohibited from having contact with Miles or giving him anything of value. “The men’s basketball staff knew or should have known about the benefits provided by Nochimson due to their knowledge of Nochimson’s status as a professional basketball agent and his relationship and contact with (blacked out),” the NCAA wrote to UConn. The alleged infractions occurred between June 2005 and February 2009. Most of the allegations appear to deal with Miles, but the names of all recruits were redacted by UConn from the NCAA letter. Calhoun said he wouldn’t be defeated by the allegations but was clearly upset by them. At one point during a news conference Friday, he said talking about the charges was the worst part of his day — and his next stop was a visit to his dentist for a root canal.
SATURDAY, MAY 29, 2010
THE ZAPATA TIMES | 3B
HINTS BY HELOISE Dear Readers: Which is better to FEED YOUR CAT: wet cat food or dry? We looked to our friends at the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals for the answer. The ASPCA says that either form of food is fine for a cat. Just make sure that you feed your animal a good-quality food, and it should be age-appropriate for your cat. Some factors to consider: Wet food has more protein than dry food and is lower in carbohydrates. Cats that are overweight or have diabetes may benefit from wet cat food. An advantage of dry cat food is that it can sit out for longer periods of time without spoiling, so no worries about the cat if you are gone all day at work. Your cat also will let you know which one it prefers! — Heloise PET PAL Dear Readers: Frank M. of New Braunfels, Texas, sent a photo of his three dogs — Sister, the black-and-white Chihuahua; Peso, the beige Chihuahua; and Rambo, the miniature rat terrier — taking a snooze. Frank says, “They have to be together all the time, whether they are sleeping or playing.” To see the Tres Amigos, visit www.Heloise.com. — Heloise PERFECT BED Dear Heloise: When my youngest son recently got too old for his crib, I took the crib-
REAL ESTATE
HOMES FOR SALE 61 3304 Morelos 3bd/2ba/1cg Las Americas-Immaculate $112,500 Call 744-0480 9625 Ashton- 4bd/2ba/3cg Fenced, REDUCED $99,000 Call 284-1074 3bd/2ba/2cg on 1ac. 2381sqft Home. Built in ‘05 in Carrizo Springs, TX $189Kmil., 830-876-8191 or 830-876-8291
4/2/2 in Winfield, Great schools, for sale by owner! 3221 Windfall 1963 Sq.Ft $212,000 neg. Call 220-2679 Alexander- 3608 Josefina 4bd/3ba/2cg, Pool,3,000sqft LA,REDUCED $298,500 Call 774-9702; 771-3831 Windfield Sub 3202 Wingate Ct,3bd/2ba/2cg, palapa W/bedroom & full bath,pool, 2,140sq.ft, $220,000 neg.,Call 956-489-3003 or 791-1913
CONDOS FOR SALE 64 Regency Oaks Townhomes for sale,4246 Dorrel 2 & 3 bedroom,starting $87,900. Near Target on Loop 20 . Call 956-237-2377 VENDO CONDOMINIO EN NUEVO LAREDO, 2/1.5, $47,000/$5,000 ENGANCHE Y $600 P/M. INFORMES: 237-2377
“
HELOISE
size mattress, and it has become the perfect-size dog bed for my medium-size dog. The crib sheets are ideal, as you can wash them easily, and the plastic covering on the mattress for the baby also keeps it clean for my dog. You would not believe how comfortable my dog looks lying on it! — Kirsten Smith, via e-mail RECYCLABLES CAUTION Dear Heloise: One evening, the wind blew over the recyclables container in our driveway. A short while later, in the twilight, I saw an animal stumbling around aimlessly in the backyard. When I got a flashlight, I saw that it was a pet cat with an empty can stuck over his head. One of the empty cat-food cans was not thoroughly rinsed, and he was trying to get the last bits from the bottom. Luckily, I saw and released him before he staggered into the street or wandered off to heaven only knows what fate. Now, after rinsing the recyclables, I flatten all cans and plastic jars that might tempt animals so that they can’t get their heads lodged in them. — Lee Steup, via e-mail
MOBILE HOMES FOR SALE 67
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY 82
Mobile Home and lot for sale. 3bd/2ba, single wide,Owner Finance $6000 down Call 206-8596 or 237-4379 Mobile home for sale! 3bd/1ba, $7,000, For information Call 956-727-1222
Professional Offices for Sale- 408 Shiloh Dr., 2 buildings, front building over 6,000sqft, rear building 3,000sqft. Total property approx 60,000sqft
LOTS FOR SALE
70
“A get away lots”.only 30 minutes away! Next to Falcon Lake 307’.Irregular in San Ygnacio,TX. with use of boat ramp $32K 956-763-1320 Corner Lot for sale in Mirando City. 48’ft x 138’ft $6,000 Call 728-8202 after 5pm North Laredo, Lauren Ln., Tiara sbdvn,approx 7,050sqft., near schools, shopping center,near hospitals, great location. $55,000 OBO Call:337-7738
Currently leased! INCOME PRODUCING! $1.3million Negotiable Call Aaron Trevino 956-401-0742
RENTALS
UNFURNISHED HOUSES 100
ACREAGE FOR SALE 76 10.3 acres near Charlotte Texas, $53,000 Call 210-623-2586 No Se Habla Espanol
HELP WANTED
138 ACRES
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY 82 For Sale 5 Apartment Duplex. All occupied. $136,000 OBO 1406 Garden St. Call 361-231-1185 Genji Asian Cuisine For sale we are still openTurnkey business prime location, open over 6yrs. with well established customers. $1000/mo. rent 7511 McPherson Rd. #3 956-523-0220; 956-220-7936
PETS & SUPPLIES 128
PETS & SUPPLIES 128
Se venden Cotorritos del amor. Listos para anidar. $10c/u Inf: 722-8639 Tiny Chihuahua puppies, 4 wks,cream & tan $150, 1female,& 8males, Call 401-6941
2 female chihuahua puppies, 1st shots, 6wks old, $125ea call 324-1129 ADBA Registered Blue Bully Pitbull puppies,2M/3F,1st shots,$350ea. Call: 796-0971
LIVESTOCK & SUP PLIES 130
Chihuahua puppies for sale $80ea. call 722-8853.
90% Coastal Hay 10% Mixed grass square bales $5.00 401-3070
Chihuahua Puppies,
Can you afford $500 month (includes taxes, insurance) for a home of your own? TRUE “0” interest/30 years. Habitat for Humanity. 724-3227. Equal Housing Lender
off of HWY183- 12mil. North Golaid. Rolling terrane. Large oaks. Deer, turkeys, hogs, lots of game. Water and electric, windmill and 3 ponds. $4200 p/ac Call 361-438-1438 leave message.
PETS & SUPPLIES
HELP WANTED
122
Dental Office Excellent opportunity for an energetic multitasker with strong people skills to join our progressive,fast paced practice. Must be self-motivated team player who can take the initiative to accomplish goals. We are looking for a •Chairside Assistant, •Hygieniest & •Administrative Assistant. Excellent benefits.7002 McPherson St. #104 or fax resume to 717-4106
F $125/M $150, 3mth old, Call 324-5505; 791-9918 Chihuahua Toy, white & black, male,10mths, all shots, $100 OBO SOLD
Chihuahua, Poodles, Silkypoo, Scotch Terriers, shots & dewormed $135 & up Call 753-0118
Chow Chow Puppies. $60 Dewormed. Call 725-6475 For Sale Schitzu, ready to go $500 OBO call:722-2607 French Poodle, white, female, all shots, 8mths, $100 OBO 286-2184 Gansos blancos, differentes tamanos, $15 a $25ea, Call 286-4603
20’Ft.Gooseneck-Cattle $2,400 Call 206-5583
CABRITOS,Live/Vivos $50 ea. Please Call 956/948-5218 Quarter Horse for sale. 5yrs. old. $600 Call 763-8748 Reg.& Com.Red Brangus Bulls. 2yrs.& up Starting at $1500 & up 763-1116 & 763-7832
FARM & RANCH SUPPLIES 132 Goesneck for live stock 26ft, very good condition, $3,800 Call 956-242-8765 Top quality alfalfa hay for sale. Starting at $12 & up 956 206 4444
MISCELLANEOUS
32 inch, & 27 inch TV’s. Antique dresser with mirror, chest and drawers/ night stand, starting at $149, Call 754-7544 Bags of Ice for sale.85¢ p/10lbs. For more info call 723-5382
* SAMSUNG DVD HomeTheater System 1000watts,ipod & iphone dock incl., $150 401-7410
*NEW Kingsford Parrilla de carbon para exteriores, $90 401-7410
AUTOMOTIVE PARTS 194
Trailer BBQ Pit 6’x30”double door w i t h disc for Tripas $1600 Call 337-1794
4 Bridgestone truck tires, 245-75-R16, less than 3,000 miles, $200 OBO, Call 231-342-2214 Diesel engines Chevy 6.6 Ford 7.3 & Cummins 5.9 Remanufactured w/warranty will deliver, $2,950. 713-918-5811.
Vendo Silla de montar (Montura) $350 Call 774-7003
bimbo1951@yahoo.com Entertainment center,100% wood,$145, In good condition Call 753-8186
Winfield +/-15Ksqft $7.75p/sqft Call 235-3342
Estufa Electrica de vidrio,funciona muy bien $219 Inf: 251-4023; 753-3515
winnie the pooh swing & bouncer, $50 OBO call: 286-0710
For Sale Armoire, brand new, Lack’s slin. $1000 Call 956-286-6367 Harley Davidson ‘03,RoadKing. Many upgrades with Motorcycle Platform lift. $11,500 Call 229-9059
SPORTING GOODS 142 9mm Taurus model 709, 2mags, in factory box, $400 call: 235-3841
TRANSPORTATION
HP computer for sale! Windows XP, $150 Call 324-1129 Men’s Calvin Klein Underwear $13 piece. Many styles available. Call 956-857-5430 MTD 20hp Lawn Tractor, semi new, with bagging system. $750 Call 229-9059 Porton de forja, doble, corediso con riel, 76”x107” $400 llamar 645-5865
Se vende Air cond. central, 5 toneladas, $1800 OMO Inf: 333-6463
ARTICLES FOR SALE 136
ARTICLES FOR SALE 136
Ventas de Muebles usados, comedores, cajoneras, camas, refri, y mas! Empesando en $50 Inf:774-0963
BilliardTables,parts,service $25 & up 744-1575,
Pronovias wedding gown size 0 never worn $300 Call 740-7345
German Shepherd Puppies, 7wks, 1st shots,dewormed,ACK Parents, 4M/3F, $250 Call: 251-2055 Pure Breed Bullmastif puppies for sale, 4wks old, $650 call:286-9629 Se vendeTelevision a color de 26”$100 OMO Inf: 722-8639
ARTICLES FOR SALE 136
Se vende Plancha Restaurante, $150 llame: 723-8104
196
1996 Harley heritage softail, chrome, clean, garaged. 49k miles, 8,500 OBO call 361-935-7840
‘06 KawasakiVulcan LTD, 500cc, 3,300 miles,like new,exc. condition, $3400 OBO Call:324-2907 3/4” Race track oval beveled edge glass table with 6 chairs $500 Call 724-2284 Harley Davidson Deuce ‘03 for sale. 100yr. Anniversary, 11Kmil., Asking $14,000 Call 724-2284
TRUCKS FOR SALE 198
BOATS
190
‘81 Fish & Ski 115hp.,17ft, fiber glass, $2300 Call 235-5275
HEAVY EQUIPMENT 192 91’, Dakota belly dump, good condition, $12,000 OBO, Call 286-5084 Dry van for sale,‘95,53ft.,air suspension, good condition, $3,000. Call(956)774-0963
Sofa Grande y sofa sensillo para un persona. $198 Inf: 251-4023; 753-3515
FlatTrailer,18ft.,holds up to 12,000lbs. $2600 Call 763-8748
Sony Blueray Player & TV high definition,digital conections, $150ea. SOLD
AUTOMOTIVE PARTS 194
Tanning bed, cost $2900 asking $1900 OBO Call:285-3552
MOTORCYCLES
(4) 20”Chrome Rims for Chevy,5 lugs, $480 753-6009
08 Chevy Silverado crew cab, 21k miles, great buy, $23,500 call: 744-4057 2004 Dodge Ram,4dr.,8 cyl, $7950 OBO Call: 635-2260 2007 Mercury Mariner Premier 50K miles,6cyl.,leather,luxury package, $8,300 OBO Call:717-4943; 52*11*26345
‘97 Jeep Wrangler (red) 4x4, auto., 79Kmil.,MUST SEE! $6500 OBO Call 333-1508 Chev. Tahoe ‘99, good cond., $3800 OBO Call 956-635-6891
Chevy 1964, 100% rebuilt, power windows, A/C, new tires, paint very well kept. $7,800 call 956-242-8765
TRUCKS FOR SALE 198 Dodge Ram ‘95, 6cyl., a/c, good cond., $1500 OBO Call 401-3655; 229-2406 Ford Pick up ‘68, short bed, new paint, motor and transmission in excellent cond. $5900 Call 956-231-6136 Ford Ranger Edge ‘03,white truck,a/c, good cond.,$4,850 OBO after 3pm 726-4159 Ford Windstar 00’, black, good cond., $2,600, Call 726-4980 GMC Sierra ‘85,v8,auto.,long bed, $1900 OBO Call 956-324-4803
CARS FOR SALE
200
1965 El Camino Restoration Project,orig 327 engine(runs) $1800 OBO Call: 956-286-8470 1970 K5 Blazer 4x4, 350 Hi Perfr., engine, $6250 obo call 763-1089 or 3107 Santa Maria 2003 Honda Civic, blue title, 103K miles, A/C, $3800 Call: 237-2917 2003Taurus,A/C,Alarma,titulo azul, placas al corriente, $2,800 Call: 774-7403 Chev. Camaro ‘1988, Iroc Z28, good cond. $2200 OBO Call 220-2823
Chevrolet HHR LT ‘07, 47k mil., 4cyl. cd. A/C Cruise control, Excellent Cond., $6,700 OBO Call 717-4943 or 52*11*26345 Mitsubishi Eclipse, 6cyl, auto, good engine, a/c, $3,500 Call 285-5340 Oldsmobile 2001 Alero, 4dr, 6cyl., Good Condition $2,300 call 337-0281 Saturn 99’, 4 door, STRD, good condition, $1500, low miles, 956-319-1830
Suzuki Forenza ‘06, Loaded, low miles, 55Kmil., $4,250 Call 725-4766
2010 World Cup
4B THE ZAPATA TIMES
SATURDAY, MAY 29, 2010
World Cup heads to Africa for first time By BARRY WILNER
round group of Algeria, Slovenia and the United States, which they face June 12 in an intriguing early matchup. That early test against Manchester United star forward Wayne Rooney and the rest of the English might indicate just how potent — or feeble — the Americans will be. In Landon Donovan, they have a versatile world-class player, and Tim Howard compares well with Casillas and other top keepers. Also odds-on to advance — the top two from each of the eight first-round groups move on to the knockout stage — are Germany, despite the absence of captain Michael Ballack (ankle injury); Netherlands; defending champion Italy; and Argentina.
ASSOCIATED PRESS
Get ready for some “futbol.” For the magic of Messi and the ruggedness of Rooney. For the passion that only soccer can bring. For the vuvezelas that will make your ears ring. And for, perhaps, a pivotal moment in World Cup — and African — history. The biggest sporting event the continent has ever seen kicks off June 11 when host South Africa plays Mexico in Johannesburg. Regardless of how Bafana Bafana fares, and few expect the host team to advance beyond the first round, bringing the world’s most popular tournament to Africa for the first time could be a master stroke by FIFA. This World Cup could be a rousing success, a celebration of South Africa and, indeed, all developing nations. It might set up the continent for all sorts of future events, including the Olympics. Or it could backfire amid problems with infrastructure, breaches of security, mediocre attendance, bad weather — it will be winter in the Southern Hemisphere, after all — and massive debt for the hosts. “What we hope as an outcome is that this country will become a destination, a business entry point for the African continent,” said Danny Jordaan, chief executive of the South Africa organizing committee. “It’s an image makeover.”
Not groundbreaking This World Cup hardly is the first time sports would be used in such a manner. Both the IOC and FIFA have done it before, most recently with the 2008 Beijing Olympics. But, as FIFA president
The unknown Photo by Schalk van Zuydam | AP
In this March 22 file photo, Table Mountain is seen in background of one of the stadiums that will host the 2010 World Cup in Cape Town, South Africa. Sepp Blatter has suggested all along, South Africa 2010 could have a lasting effect throughout Africa, not just in the host country. “We can all applaud Africa,” Blatter said way back in 2004, when this cup was awarded. “The victor is football. The victor is Africa.” Blatter remains hopeful Nelson Mandela will be healthy enough to attend the opening game at Soccer City, one of 10 stadiums being used in nine cities. South Africa’s most famous citizen campaigned hard to bring the World Cup to his country, and tears of joy filled his eyes when it won the tournament.
High price It has come with a price, though. The estimated cost of staging the tournament is more than $4.6 billion, and includes $430 million
from FIFA. Security always is a prime concern at such massive events, which provide inviting targets for terrorism. The U.S. State Department has issued a travel alert for Americans visiting South Africa, while adding that it did not have a “specific, credible threat of attack.” The situation is exacerbated in a nation so weighted with crime. South African officials have called on Interpol and security units from each of the 31 other countries, and their own forces will include 44,000 police officers from the national South African Police Service, who will be dedicated solely to the World Cup. They will be bolstered by an extra 10,000 personnel from metropolitan forces. “Ours is a daunting task,” police minister Nathi Mthethwa said recently. “But if we work to-
gether we shall succeed. Failure is not even part of our vocabulary.”
Top contenders Whose World Cup will it be on the field? History tells us to look to Brazil. When the World Cup first was held in Scandinavia (1958), North America (1970) and Asia (2002), Brazil sambaed off with the Jules Rimet Cup. The brilliant Brazilians also won the only tournament staged in the United States (1994) and are the only five-time winners. They won last year’s Confederations Cup but come back to South Africa in something of a transitional stage, with such former stars as Ronaldo, Ronaldinho and Roberto Carlos gone. In their places stand Kaka, Luis Fabiano and Lucio. If Spain’s players give
their best, it’s hard to bet against the European champions going deep into the tournament. But, like Kaka for Brazil, Wayne Rooney for England and Italy’s Gianliugi Buffon, key performers such as Fernando Torres, Andres Iniesta and Cesc Fabregas are battling to return from injuries. The Spaniards always disappoint on soccer’s grandest stage, but their dominant run to the 2008 Euro title might have erased the burdens of past failures. No country — not even Brazil — has as deep a collection of standouts, from goalkeeper Iker Casillas to midfielders Iniesta and Xavi to forwards Torres and David Villa. Also grand disappointments in the World Cup, at least since making the semifinals in 1990, have been the English. They should have little trouble emerging from their first-
And how good are the six African representatives? The majority opinion seems to be Ivory Coast, in its second straight tournament and sparked by the dangerous Didier Drogba, is the best bet to carry the continent’s honor. Ghana, which made the second round in 2006 with upsets of the Americans and Czechs, could be a factor. Nigeria and Cameroon are threats if matches get open. The hosts? Coach Carlos Alberto Parreira, a Brazilian who led his nation to the 1994 championship, wants his players to grasp the momentous opportunity. “I wish to say to my players, everything they do is important. Even at training because we are now a World Cup team, we are World Cup players, the whole world is focused on us. So everything changes,” he said. “There is something about the World Cup, once you have been there you will know the feeling. It’s priceless.”
Landon looks inward before redemption run By RONALD BLUM ASSOCIATED PRESS
PHILADELPHIA — Landon Donovan turned inward, trying to find out who he is. He was a joy-filled 20-year-old in 2002 who helped lead the United States to its best World Cup finish in 72 years, filled with optimism and thoughts that one day he and his teammates could lift the gold trophy above their shoulders. Four years later, it was more like world on his shoulders than the World Cup, his mind weighed down by the expectations his precocious talent had created. Soccer had become the burden of his life instead of the passion. Now, two weeks from his third World Cup, he sounds at peace. With the demands, with his talent, and with himself. It’s been a long road. “It started eight years ago on July 4, after an LA Galaxy-San Jose Earthquake game where I met my now ex-wife Bianca, who has taught me more about myself than I’ve ever known, and continues to do that,” he said. “And that was the beginning of it all.” In addition to being the top American soccer player, he’s the most well-spoken, a critical analyst of himself and the game. What other player would credit his growth to his former wife, Bianca Kajlich, and speak of her so glowingly? “Bianca is an actress and if any of you know what that life is like, it can be miserable at times, and she has fought very hard for everything she has gotten,” he said. “And I, on the other hand, have been pretty blessed and fortunate with the ability that I’ve been given and also the opportunities I’ve been given. And when you get that perspective and realize that you can’t take things for granted, it hits you real. It hits you hard when it comes from your wife and your best friend.”
Ups and downs Setting records with 42 goals and 42 assists, he already is the most accomplished offensive player in American national team history even though he’s just 28. Yet, much of the reputation he made by scoring twice at
the 2002 World Cup was unmade when he virtually disappeared at the 2006 tournament, unwilling to get into the flow of the game or even to want the ball. He was unsure of his place on the team, uncomfortable leading in a group that included Claudio Reyna and Brian McBride. No longer the just-past-teenage star who was selected MVP of the 1999 FIFA Under-17 World Championship, he was stranded between the goalposts of youth and maturity. “Landon was in a tough situation. In 2006, we didn’t have quite the leadership we needed,” said Bruce Arena, the former national team coach who now leads Donovan’s Los Angeles Galaxy. “One of Landon’s faults in he’s in some ways a little too intelligent.” Back then, Donovan needed to be content to perform. When he wasn’t in a good frame of mind off the field, it showed on the pitch, “I think Landon kind of shuts down as a person when he’s not happy,” Kajlich said during qualifying in 2005. He struggled to gain acceptance as a top club player, and that caused him to go back and forth across the Atlantic in search of satisfaction.
Stints overseas Although he signed a six-year deal with Bayer Leverkusen as a 16-year-old in 1999 and left California for Germany, he didn’t play a game in two years and was loaned to the San Jose Earthquakes of MLS in 2001. He rejoined Leverkusen in January 2005 and made nine appearances, but was unhappy being so far from Kajlich. He lasted just two months on his second stint in Europe and returned to Major League Soccer with the Galaxy. Europe stint No. 3 was just as unrewarding. He was loaned to German power Bayern Munich in January 2009 and failed to score in six competitive matches. Listening to Juergen Klinsmann, Bayern Munich’s coach at the time, Donovan was given a mental hazing by Bayern’s stars. “They don’t tell you, you know, ‘Good to have you here, you
Photo by Andre Penner | AP
In this June 28, 2009, file photo, the United States’ Landon Donovan scores their second goal during their Confederations Cup final against Brazil at Ellis Park Stadium in Johannesburg, South Africa. Next month, Donovane has a chance to show his maturity and gain redemption at the World Cup in the same location. know. We give you the starting spot.’ They tell you the opposite,” Klinsmann said. Instead of three strikes and you’re out, Donovan returned to Europe for a fourth time when he was loaned to Everton this January. The culture and the soccer were more to his taste (even if the cold, cloudy weather was not). The Toffees were 5-7-7 when he joined, and he scored two goals in 13 games, getting voted player of the month for January. Everton finished its Premier League season at 16-9-13. “Absolutely outstanding,” Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson said. “I think they wanted him to stay but the agreement was he had to go back.” Support from his teammates in England was key. “When I went to Everton, there was immediate respect, and that was eye-opening for me, be-
cause I had never experienced that in Europe,” Donovan said. “I’ve always been pretty confident, but knowing that you can play against the best players in the world, week in, week out is a big boost. And that for me was the biggest thing.”
Back in America And when he went back to the Galaxy, he played some of his best soccer. With an impact far larger than his 5-foot-8 frame, he had an MLS-leading nine assists, helping the Galaxy to a 7-0-2 start before he reported to the national team. Even before the latest loan, he made peace with David Beckham following his critical comments about the English star in a book last year. Donovan took over from Becks as the Galaxy captain. And,
helped by Donovan’s distribution skills and overall influence, Edson Buddle became MLS’s leading scorer this season with nine goals in nine games. After not playing for the national team for seven years, he made the World Cup roster this week. “I think that there were a lot of expectations placed on him and in retrospect he realized that he didn’t know how to properly handle those expectations,” said Donovan’s longtime agent, Richard Motzkin. “How he worked through that with David and with his teammates and sort of reinstated himself as a leader of Galaxy was a very important time last summer.” Donovan had wanted to be a leader on the national team when Bob Bradley replaced Arena as coach in December 2006. He even told the new coach he was ready and willing. He now thinks he was being presumptive. “Looking back now, I realize that I wasn’t ready for that, and he probably saw that, too,” Donovan said. “And so it takes time to learn those things. And for me, I want to earn it. I don’t want to be given anything because I have played in a lot of games or I have a lot of experience. I want to earn it, and he’s made me earn it, and it feels better that way.”
Frame of mind Now he says he’s in the right frame of mind. When he takes the field, the rest of his life gets put on hold instead of holding him back. If the United States is to advance past the first round and make up for its awful exit of 2006, Donovan must lead the charge, starting June 12 against England. “I changed the way I look at my career, the way I play,” he said. “I would almost say I’m a 180, that things have changed completely in almost a 180 from where I was four years ago.” His list of changes goes on and on. “Mentally, physically, from a motivation standpoint, understanding what it all means, the importance of it, putting my career in context and understanding how important this tournament is,” he said. “A lot of things.”