The Zapata Times 6/16/2012

MALE ALL-CITY TEAM REVEALED

SATURDAY JUNE 16, 2012

FREE

SIX ATHLETES EARN HONORS FROM SIX DIFFERENT SPORTS, 1B

DELIVERED EVERY SATURDAY

TO 4,000 HOMES

A HEARST PUBLICATION

ON THE WEB: THEZAPATATIMES.COM

IMMIGRATION

COMMISSIONERS

Staying for work

Dialysis clinic still pending

Obama policy to spare many youths from deportation

By ALICIA A. CALDWELL AND JIM KUHNHENN ASSOCIATED PRESS

WASHINGTON — President Barack Obama eased enforcement of immigration laws Friday, offering a chance for hundreds of thousands of illegal immigrants to stay in the country and work.

Immediately embraced by Hispanics, the extraordinary step touched off an election-year confrontation with congressional Republicans.

“Let’s be clear, this is not amnesty, this is not immunity, this is not a path to citizenship, this is not a permanent fix,” Obama

said from the White House Rose Garden. “This is the right thing to do.”

The policy change will affect as many as 800,000 immigrants who have lived in fear of deportation. It bypasses Congress and partially achieves the goals of the “DREAM Act,” congressional legislation that would establish a path toward citizenship for young people who came to the United States illegally but who attend college or join the military.

Under the administration plan, illegal immigrants will be immune from deportation if they

were brought to the United States before they turned 16 and are younger than 30, have been in the country for at least five continuous years, have no criminal history, graduated from a U.S. high school or earned a GED or served in the military. They also can apply for a work permit that will be good for two years with no limits on how many times it can be renewed.

Obama said the change would become effective immediately to “lift the shadow of deportation from these young people.”

The move comes in an election year in which the Hispanic vote

could be critical in swing states like Colorado, Nevada and Florida. While Obama enjoys support from a majority of Hispanic voters, Latino enthusiasm for the president has been tempered by the slow economic recovery, his inability to win congressional support for a broad overhaul of immigration laws and by his administration’s aggressive deportation policy.

The step, to be carried out by the Department of Homeland Security, comes one week before Obama plans to address the Na-

See IMMIGRATION PAGE 10A

ZAPATA RISING

PLANNING THE TOWN’S FAMILY REUNION

Officials say details are still being worked out with dialysis firm

By JJ VELASQUEZ THE ZAPATA TIMES

No action was taken during the Zapata County Commissioners Court meeting on Monday to approve construction of a kidney dialysis clinic in the county, as details of the plan are still being worked on, county officials said.

Commissioner Jose E. Vela said county officials received an email Sunday from a representative of DaVita, a kidney dialysis corporation, saying the agreement had yet to be finalized.

Vela said he was told the agreement would be ready by the next regular meeting in July.

Next meeting “We’ll wait to see what he comes up with, and we’ll take a look at it before the meeting,” Vela said.

Bringing a dialysis center has been on the county’s agenda for some time. Months ago, the court appointed Vela to be the point man on the project.

Jeff Boroczky, a DaVita representative, made a presentation at a Commissioners Court meeting in May. Boroczky asked the county for an incentive to operate here because the county’s roughly 35 patients on dialysis would not provide a strong enough clientele to make the business financially viable.

The county has offered to build the structure that will house the dialysis clinic.

Occupy 2 acres

Photo by Danny Zaragoza | The Zapata Times

Roberto O. Montes, left, presents ideas for the upcoming Zapata Rising family reunion event Thursday afteroon at the Holiday Restaurant. Jose L. Elizondo, center, ponders Montes’ ideas. The old townsite was covered by water after Falcon Dam created the lake in 1953. The reunion is scheduled for 2013.

The proposed structure is believed to cost upwards of $65,000, depending on the size of the clinic. Among the plans the county is considering is a 6,500square-foot structure that would be located on about 2 acres of land on Rathmell Street.

County officials hope the clinic will ease the travel burden of its dialysis-receiving residents, who travel two to three times a week to Laredo or San Antonio for treatment.

The court’s next regular meeting is scheduled for July 9.

(JJ Velasquez may be reached at 728-2579 or jjvelasquez@lmtonline.com)

PAGE 2A

Zin brief CALENDAR

SATURDAY, JUNE 16, 2012

AROUND TEXAS

TODAY IN HISTORY

SATURDAY, JUNE 16

ASSOCIATED PRESS

The Texas A&M International University Lamar Bruni Vergara Planetarium will show “The Zula Patrol: Under the Weather” at 5 p.m., “2012: Ancient Skies, Ancient Mysteries” at 6 p.m. and Pink Floyd’s “The Wall” at 7 p.m.

General admission is $4 for children and $5 for adults. “Ancient Skies” and “The Wall” are $1 more. For more information, call 956-326-3663.

Children of St. Mary’s alumni, in partnership with Project Kids Aid with Lemonade, will host their second annual fundraiser to benefit the South Texas Food Bank at Uni-Trade Stadium, 6320 Sinatra Parkway, during the Lemurs’ baseball game at 7:30 p.m. For more information, call Xochitl Mora Garcia at 337-3639.

The Area Health Education Center is hosting a free asthma screening from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Adults and children with breathing problems can find out if asthma is taking their breath away during this screening. For more information, contact AHEC at 956-7120037 or mrgbaheccord@stx.rr.com.

Today is Saturday, June 16, the 168th day of 2012. There are 198 days left in the year.

Today’s Highlight in History: On June 16, 1812, the City Bank of New York (later Citibank) opened for business.

On this date: In 1567, Mary, Queen of Scots, was imprisoned in Lochleven Castle in Scotland.

(She escaped almost a year later but ended up imprisoned again.)

In 1858, accepting the Illinois Republican Party’s nomination for the U.S. Senate, Abraham Lincoln said the slavery issue had to be resolved, declaring, “A house divided against itself cannot stand.”

In 1903, Ford Motor Co. was incorporated.

In 1911, IBM had its beginnings as the Computing-Tabulating-Recording Co. was incorporated in New York State.

In 1932, President Herbert Hoover and Vice President Charles Curtis were renominated at the Republican national convention in Chicago.

In 1933, the National Industrial Recovery Act became law.

(It was later struck down by the Supreme Court.)

In 1941, National Airport (now Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport) opened for business with a ceremony attended by President Franklin D. Roosevelt.

In 1952, “Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl” was published in the United States for the first time by Doubleday & Co. In 1962, The New Yorker published the first of a threepart serialization of “Silent Spring” by Rachel Carson.

In 1963, the world’s first female space traveler, Valentina Tereshkova, was launched into orbit by the Soviet Union aboard Vostok 6.

In 1978, President Jimmy Carter and Panamanian leader Omar Torrijos (toh-REE’ohs) exchanged the instruments of ratification for the Panama Canal treaties.

In 1987, a jury in New York acquitted Bernhard Goetz of attempted murder in the subway shooting of four youths he said were going to rob him; however, Goetz was convicted of illegal weapons possession.

(In 1996, a civil jury ordered Goetz to pay $43 million to one of the persons he’d shot.)

Ten years ago: French conservatives won a landslide victory in legislative elections. A runaway winner again in the U.S. Open following his victory at the Masters, Tiger Woods became the first player since Jack Nicklaus in 1972 to capture the first two major championships of the year.

Today’s Birthdays: Author Joyce Carol Oates is 74.

Rhythm-and-blues singer Eddie Levert is 70. Boxing Hall of Famer Roberto Duran is 61.

Pop singer Gino Vannelli is 60.

Actress Laurie Metcalf is 57.

Model-actress Jenny Shimizu is 45. Actor James Patrick Stuart is 44. Actor Clifton Collins Jr. is 42. Actor John Cho is 40. Actor Eddie Cibrian is 39. Actress China (chee-nah) Shavers is 35. Actress Missy Peregrym (PEH’-rih-grihm) is 30. Actress Olivia Hack is 29.

Singer Diana DeGarmo (“American Idol”) is 25. Poprock musician Ian Keaggy (Hot Chelle (SHEL)) is 25.

Thought for Today: “Our memories are card indexes consulted and then returned in disorder by authorities whom we do not control.” — Cyril Connolly, British critic (1903-1974).

MONDAY, JUNE 18 The Area Health Education Center is hosting the Summer Biomedical Camp for high school students at the UT Health Science Center Laredo campus from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event provides hands-on activities that highlight health careers and motivate students to pursue a higher education.

For more information, contact AHEC at 956-712-0037 or mrgbaheccord@stx.rr.com.

The Ruthe B. Cowl Rehabilitation Center of Laredo is sponsoring the 2012 Summer Clothing, Food, and Toiletry Drive to benefit people who are disabled, handicapped or physically challenged and seeking treatment at the center in anticipation of the summer heat. To support the families who use the center, the drive began June 1 and will end June 29. Collection bins are at the center, 1220 N. Malinche Ave. Acceptable donations include food, clothing, toiletries, children’s products, household products and first aid products. For more information regarding the drive, call Christina Nazarin or Becky Diaz at 956-722-2431.

Photo by LM Otero | AP

Texas Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst, candidate for U.S. Senate, speaks during the Texas Republican Convention in Fort Worth on June 8. Dewhurst is competing with Ted Cruz for the Republican nomination in a runoff election July 31.

Dewhurst, Cruz battle

By WILL WEISSERT ASSOCIATED PRESS

KERRVILLE — The two Texans embroiled in a white-hot battle for the state’s Republican U.S. Senate nomination each addressed the same GOP women’s group Friday and claimed they were more conservative than their opponent.

Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst and former state Solicitor General Ted Cruz sat at tables separated only by a raised podium, but were careful not to cross paths before and after their dueling speeches in Kerrville.

The pair is vying for the GOP nomination to replace retiring Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison. They face a runoff July 31.

The winner of the runoff looks sure to prevail in November’s general election.

Serving as lieutenant governor since 2003, Dewhurst is the establishment Republican

favorite. But Cruz is backed by tea party groups.

The race took a turn for the nasty at last week’s Texas Republican Convention, when delegates booed Gov. Rick Perry, himself a conservative darling, for endorsing Dewhurst.

Speaking to about 200 members of the Kerr County Republican Women’s Club in a hotel conference room, Dewhurst said, “I’m the only proven conservative in this race.

I’m the only one who’s done all the things my opponent is talking about.”

“If you like Texas, that’s what I’ve done for the last nine years,” Dewhurst said. “You’ll love the job I’ll do for you in Washington.”

Cruz said America was ready for new leadership, drawing “Amens.”

“We weren’t supposed to be here. There wasn’t supposed to be a runoff,” he said.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 20 The Texas A&M International University Lamar Bruni Vergara Planetarium will show “New Horizons” at 4 p.m. and “Planet Quest” at 5 p.m.

General admission is $3. For more information, call 956-326-3663.

THURSDAY, JUNE 21 The Laredo Public Library will host a free creative writing workshop from 6-7:30 p.m. taught by Charlotte Cunningham-McEachin of Laredo Community College.

FRIDAY, JUNE 22 Registration for the Second Annual Classic Bass Fishing Tournament is from 3-7 p.m. at the boat ramp.

SATURDAY, JUNE 23 The Second Annual Classic Bass Fishing Tournament begins with weighin at 2:30 p.m. There will be two person teams. Entry fee is $150 per boat.

First place is guaranteed $3,000.

The Texas A&M International University Lamar Bruni Vergara Planetarium will show “Despicable Me” at noon, 2 p.m., 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. General admission is $3. For more information, contact Claudia Herrera at 956-326-2463 or claudia.herrera@tamiu.edu.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 27 The deadline to sign up for vendor’s permits from the City of Laredo for the Fourth of July Family Fest is today. Food vendors must have a food handler’s permit from the Health Department as well as a vendor’s permit from the Parks & Leisure Services Department. For more information on any of the activities, call the City of Laredo at 791-7461; the South Texas Food Bank at 763-2107; or R Communications at 725-1000.

THURSDAY, JUNE 28 The Laredo Public Library will host a free creative writing workshop from 6-7:30 p.m. taught by Charlotte Cunningham-McEachin of Laredo Community College.

MONDAY, JULY 9 The Zapata Commissioners Court will have its regular meeting today at 9 a.m.

Man accused of taking $100,000 from VFW

El Paso police officer fatally shoots man

Battleship Texas to close for repairs next week

HOUSTON — A Houston man is being accused by federal prosecutors of taking $100,000 from a national veterans group after failing to deliver a communication system his company had been hired to set up that would have allowed soldiers in Iraq to communicate with their families.

Joe H. Nichols was freed on bond Friday after appearing in Houston federal court.

The 46-year-old faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted.

EL PASO — El Paso police say an officer has shot and killed a man while responding to a call of a suspicious subject.

Sgt. Chris Mears said the shooting happened Friday when officers confronted a man and he allegedly lunged at them with a knife. An officer responded by firing at the man.

The officer and the man who was killed haven’t been identified.

LA PORTE — Battleship Texas will close next week for repairs after the 100-year-old vessel began flooding.

Ship manager Andy Smith said the ship will remain open to visitors this weekend, but is set to close Monday. The battleship, which now serves as a memorial and museum to those who sacrificed their lives, will likely remain closed through June 22.

Officers try out defense contractor’s simulation PLANO — Defense contractor Raytheon is trying to sell local law enforcement on training technology that can simulate a restaurant robbery or a hijacked airplane.

Raytheon says it’s shown the technology to 12 law enforcement agencies but has not had any buyers yet.

Texas sending wildfire help to New Mexico COLLEGE STATION — Emergency responders from Texas are headed to New Mexico to help in recovery efforts from a wildfire that has destroyed 200 homes.

The Texas Forest Service said Friday that 11 personnel from Texas will be among 15 visiting New Mexico this weekend to aid in recovery efforts from the Little Bear Fire near Ruidoso.

Ex-medical leaders get prison in tax case LUBBOCK — Two men who ran a West Texas medical center have been sentenced to five-year prison terms and must repay $5 million in taxes.

A federal judge in Lubbock on Friday sentenced 64-year-olds Herschel A. Breig and James Cheek.

Both pleaded guilty to failure to submit payroll taxes.

— Compiled from AP reports

AROUND THE NATION Conn. man calls 911 over beef about sandwich EAST HARTFORD, Conn. — A man angry that a deli had fouled up his sandwich order decided to take his beef to police.

The man, identified by police as Rother McLennon of East Hartford, called 911 on Wednesday and complained that he “specifically asked for little turkey and little ham, a lot of cheese and a lot of mayonnaise,” and the Grateful Deli in East Hartford got it wrong.

Before ending the call, the dispatcher advised him not to buy the sandwich.

Pelosi confident court will back health care law WASHINGTON — House Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi is predicting the Supreme Court will uphold the constitutionality of the health care law by a 6-3 vote.

CONTACT US Publisher, William B. Green........................728-2501 Business Manager, Dora Martinez ...... (956) 324-1226 General Manager, Adriana Devally ...............728-2510 Adv. Billing Inquiries ................................. 728-2531 Circulation Director ................................. 728-2559 MIS Director, Michael Castillo.................... 728-2505 Copy Editor, Nick Georgiou ....................... 728-2565 Managing Editor, Mary Nell Sanchez........... 728-2543 Sports Editor, Adam Geigerman..................728-2578 Spanish Editor ........................................ 728-2569 Photo by David Duprey | AP

A law enforcement officer takes notes at the home of Dr. Timothy Jorden, suspected of shooting his ex-girlfriend, in Hamburg, N.Y., on Thursday. A body which may be Jorden’s was found near his home on Friday.

Pelosi didn’t say how she thought individual justices would vote in her appearance Friday on “CBS This Morning.”

But she said her party is “prepared for any eventuality,” including the possibility the high court may overturn some or all

of the law.

Pelosi said “we’re ironclad on the constitutionality,” and the public already is taking advantage of some features.

The court is expected to rule in the next two weeks.

— 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

Local

SATURDAY, JUNE 16, 2012

THE ZAPATA TIMES 3A

THE BLOTTER ASSAULT Jaime Alonzo Zepeda, 28, was arrested at about noon June 7 in the 100 block of Guerrero Street in San Ygnacio.

Zepeda was served with a warrant charging him with aggravated assault. He had a $15,000 bond at Zapata Regional Jail.

Armando Chapa, 30, was arrested and charged with assault at about 2:30 a.m. June 10 in the 900 block of Miraflores Avenue after a domestic disturbance. He had a $10,000 bond at Webb County Jail.

Courtesy photo

Investigators seized 50 bundles of marijuana worth $315,000 this week in the Flores Subdivision. The seizure weighted 619 pounds.

Deputies seize $300K of pot

By CÉSAR G. RODRIGUEZ THE ZAPATA TIMES

Investigators seized 50 bundles of marijuana worth more than $300,000 this week in the Flores Subdivision.

No suspects have been named in the case. On Tuesday, sheriff ’s office investigators executed a search warrant at a storage facility in the 100 block of Fourth Street.

Sgt. Mario Elizondo said author-

ities found 25 sealed cardboard boxes containing 50 bundles of marijuana.

The pot added up to 619 pounds. Elizondo said the contraband had an estimated street value of $315,000.

The case remains open. Sheriff Sigifredo Gonzalez Jr. credited the seizure to investigators who worked the case.

“I commend the efforts of my employees for their dedication in continuing our efforts to rid the community of the cancer that causes so much

heartache for so many people,” Gonzalez said.

People with information on the case are asked to call the Zapata County Sheriff ’s Office at 765-9960 or Crime Stoppers at 765-TIPS (8477). All callers may remain anonymous. Information leading to an arrest may be rewarded.

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

Feds charge man with transport

By CÉSAR G. RODRIGUEZ THE ZAPATA TIMES

A 32-year-old man has been arrested for transporting more than 600 pounds of marijuana in Zapata, according to a federal criminal complaint released Wednesday.

Elizardo Gonzalez Jr., 31, is being charged with knowingly and intentionally possessing with intent to distribute marijuana.

On Monday, U.S. Border Patrol agents patrolling U.S. 83 in Zapata observed Gonzalez driving a gray Chevrolet pickup north-

ELIZARDO GONZALEZ JR.: Accused of allegedly transporting pot. bound on U.S. 83. The truck had boxes in the bed of the pickup, according to a criminal complaint. That same truck had been stopped June 4 for suspicion of narcotics smuggling, but no one was arrested.

Agents followed Gonzalez and noticed he picked up speed and drove erratically. He stopped abruptly, abandoned the truck and fled on foot. But agents caught up to him

and detained him, the complaint states. A K-9 unit inspected the truck.

“The (dog) alerted to the presence of illegal narcotics originating from the vehicle, specifically, from the boxes placed in the bed of the pickup,” a complaint states. Agents seized a total of 52 bundles of marijuana packaged in cellophane. The contraband weighed approximately 632 pounds.

“Gonzalez stated that he knew he was transporting marijuana and that he was going to be paid $1,200,” a complaint states.

He further told DEA agents he picked up the marijuana at a trailer home in Zapata. He was instructed to take the pot and store it at a warehouse in Zapata.

“Gonzalez stated that he needed the money and that he was expecting to be paid after (delivering) two separate loads of marijuana to the same storage location,” a complaint states.

Gonzalez remains in federal custody.

(César G. Rodriguez may be reached at 7282568 or cesar@lmtonline.com)

DISORDERLY CONDUCT Antonio Uvalle-Guzman, 35, was arrested and charged with disorderly conduct and public intoxication at about 6 a.m. June 8 at the Rex Tortilla Factory at Seventh Street and Texas 16. He was released, pending court appearance.

Jose Eliseo Martinez, 20, was arrested and charged with disorderly conduct at about 12:15 a.m. June 9 at Fourth Avenue and Laredo Street. He was fined $500.

Mauro Moncada, 22, was arrested and charged with disorderly conduct at about 3:45 a.m. Tuesday in the 900 block of Roma Avenue after a fight.

He was released from Zapata Regional Jail for future court appearance.

DOG BITE A 25-year-old man reported at 12:35 a.m. June 10 at the Zapata Health Clinic that a pit-

bull bit him.

HIT AND RUN A hit-and-run accident was reported at 8:10 a.m. at Second Street and Zapata Avenue. A 36-year-old woman reported that she was traveling east on Zapata when a Ford truck disregarded a stop sign and struck her 2003 Expedition.

INCIDENT A person reported at 5:32 p.m. June 9 in the 1700 block of Ramireño Avenue that a family member had stolen a black battery charger and hunting bow. After an investigation, the items were returned. No charges were filed.

A 40-year-old man reported at 3 p.m. June 10 in the 900 block of U.S. 83 that he does not know if he lost his wallet or someone stole it. Deputies say the man had $2,000 in his wallet.

IDENTITY THEFT A 29-year-old woman reported at 12:24 p.m. Monday at the sheriff’s office that someone had been using her Social Security number in another state.

POSSESSION Raul Salvador Sanchez Jr., 25, was arrested and charged with possession of marijuana at about 12:30 a.m. June 7 at 26th Avenue and Alamo Street after a traffic stop. He had a $5,000 bond at Zapata Regional Jail.

PAGE 4A

Zopinion

SATURDAY, JUNE 16, 2012

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

OTHER VIEWS

Group is pro-choice, or is not

By KEN HERMAN COX NEWSPAPERS

AUSTIN — Out on the margins of our most deeply held beliefs are situations that can test those beliefs.

For journalists, unconditional love for the First Amendment is tested by those loons who, citing free-speech rights, stage senseless, homophobic demonstrations at military funerals. I hate being on their side, but, when it comes to their right to express their views, I am.

For abortion-rights advocates, gender-selection abortion presents a similar test. Isn’t the standard pro-choice line that a woman’s reason for having a legal abortion is nobody’s business?

Philosphy But Planned Parenthood, a leading prochoice voice, opposes gender-selection abortions. Planned Parenthood, it seems, is prochoice unless it doesn’t like one of the choices.

Isn’t it inconsistent for the organization to pass judgment on women’s reasons for seeking an abortion? For better or worse, it is legal to choose to have an abortion because you have a gender preference for your child.

It’s an issue that cropped up recently in South Austin and the U.S. House.

Planned Parenthood of the Texas Capital Region was hoaxed by Live Action, an anti-abortion rights organization, that sent a young woman with a hidden camera into a South Austin clinic.

Pretending to be pregnant, she said she wanted to have the baby only if it was a boy. A Planned Parenthood staffer aided and abetted toward that goal, ending with, “Good luck, and I hope that you do get your boy.”

Planned Parenthood fired her for not adhering to protocols. The organization would not say which ones.

In Washington, Democrats recently killed an effort to make genderbased abortion a federal crime carrying a fiveyear prison sentence for performing such a procedure. The bill failed largely along party lines, though 20 Democrats voted for it and seven Republicans voted against it.

No intrusion “The government should not intrude in medical decisions or private family matters in this way,” White House Press Secretary Jay Carney said in criticizing the bill. That’s the consistent, pro-choice position.

But in opposing gender-selection abortions, isn’t Planned Parenthood injecting its values into private reproductive decisions? And isn’t that exactly what Planned Parenthood complains about when anti-abortion-rights groups seek to inject their values into reproductive decisions?

Debate over choice Sarah Wheat, interim

local CEO of Planned Parenthood, told me the organization opposes “anything tied to valuing a particular gender child over another.” But what if a woman, in a private decision, chooses to do exactly that? Wheat referred me to this Planned Parenthood statement: “Planned Parenthood opposes racism and sexism in all forms, and we work to advance equity and human rights in the delivery of health care.

Planned Parenthood condemns sex selection motivated by gender bias, and urges leaders to challenge the underlying conditions that lead to these beliefs and practices, including addressing the social, legal, economic and political conditions that promote gender bias and lead some to value one gender over the other.”

Gender choice That’s good. I’m for ending racism and sexism. But until we do, it is legal to choose to abort a fetus based on gender.

Isn’t that a private choice that “pro-choice” organizations should support?

I suppose it’s possible to oppose something but support somebody else’s right to do it (see my First Amendment example above). So I asked Planned Parenthood if, despite its opposition to gender-selection abortion, it supports a woman’s right to choose to have such a procedure, which seems the prochoicey thing to do.

Spokesman Eric Ferrero referred me to statements opposing genderselection abortion but silent on a woman’s right to choose such a procedure. FYI, Planned Parenthood opposed the defeated Prenatal Nondiscrimination Act. The Guttmacher Institute (which supports abortion rights) recently reported gender-selection abortions are highly uncommon in the U.S., a conclusion based on birth gender ratios “squarely within biologically normal parameters.”

“Son preference is a global phenomenon that has existed throughout history,” the report said.

“There is some evidence — although limited and inconclusive — that the practice may occur among Asian communities in the United States.”

COLUMN

Less government hurts all

H

ope springs eternal. For a few hours I was ready to applaud Mitt Romney for speaking honestly about what his calls for smaller government actually mean.

Never mind. Soon the candidate was being his normal self, denying having said what he said and serving up a bunch of selfcontradictory excuses.

But let’s talk about his accidental truth-telling, and what it reveals.

In the remarks Romney later tried to deny, he derided President Barack Obama: “He says we need more firemen, more policemen, more teachers.”

Then he declared, “It’s time for us to cut back on government and help the American people.”

Bureaucrats You can see why I was ready to give points for honesty. For once, he actually admitted what he and his allies mean when they talk about shrinking government.

Conservatives love to pretend that there are vast armies of government bureaucrats doing who knows what; in reality, a majority of government workers are employed providing either education (teachers) or public protection (police officers and firefighters).

So would getting rid of teachers, police officers, and firefighters help the American people? Well, some Republicans would prefer to see Americans get less education; remember Rick Santorum’s description of colleges as

“indoctrination mills?”

Still, neither less education nor worse protection are issues the GOP wants to run on.

Economic impact But the more relevant question for the moment is whether the public job cuts Romney applauds are good or bad for the economy. And we now have a lot of evidence bearing on that question.

First of all, there’s our own experience. Conservatives would have you believe that our disappointing economic performance has somehow been caused by excessive government spending, which crowds out private job creation. But the reality is that private-sector job growth has more or less matched the recoveries from the last two recessions; the big difference this time is an unprecedented fall in public employment, which is now about 1.4 million jobs less than it would be if it had grown as fast as it did under President George W. Bush.

And, if we had those extra jobs, the unemployment rate would be much lower than it is — something like 7.3 percent instead of 8.2 percent. It sure looks as if cutting government when the economy is deeply depressed hurts rather than

Federal help And the point is that in America it is possible.

You can argue that countries like Ireland had and have very limited policy choices. But America — which unlike Europe has a federal government — has an easy way to reverse the job cuts that are killing the recovery: Have the feds, who can borrow at historically low rates, provide aid that helps state and local governments weather the hard times. That, in essence, is what the president was proposing and Romney was deriding.

So the former governor of Massachusetts was telling the truth the first time: By opposing aid to

beleaguered state and local governments, he is, in effect, calling for more layoffs of teachers, policemen and firemen.

Just like Europe Actually, it’s kind of ironic. While Republicans love to engage in Europebashing, they’re actually the ones who want us to emulate European-style austerity and experience a European-style depression.

And that’s not just an inference. Last week R. Glenn Hubbard of Columbia University, a top Romney adviser, published an article in a German newspaper urging the Germans to ignore advice from Obama and continue pushing their hard-line policies. In so doing, Hubbard was deliberately undercutting a sitting president’s foreign policy. More important, however, he was throwing his support behind a policy that is collapsing as you read this.

In fact, almost everyone following the situation now realizes that Germany’s austerity obsession has brought Europe to the edge of catastrophe — almost everyone, that is, except the Germans themselves and, it turns out, the Romney economic team.

Needless to say, this bodes ill if Romney wins in November. For all indications are that his idea of smart policy is to double down on the very spending cuts that have hobbled recovery here and sent Europe into an economic and political tailspin.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY

Text results As science marches on, there will be more tough issues to deal with in abortion politics. University of Washington research is leading to a prenatal test to screen for 3,000 hereditary conditions, sparking ethical debate about whether women should be allowed to abort based on the test. Will pro-choicers have a problem with women who choose not to bear a child who tests show could develop one of a wide-ranging list of conditions of varying severity?

Are you pro-choice enough to say that’s OK? Weigh in if you’d like.

I’ll support your right to say it, even if I disagree.

(Email Ken Herman at kherman@statesman.com.)

“

PAUL KRUGMAN

helps the American people.

The really decisive evidence on government cuts, however, comes from Europe. Consider the case of Ireland, which has reduced public employment by 28,000 since 2008 — the equivalent, as a share of population, of laying off 1.9 million workers here.

These cuts were hailed by conservatives, who predicted great results. “The Irish economy is showing encouraging signs of recovery,” declared Alan Reynolds of the Cato Institute in June 2010.

But recovery never came; Irish unemployment is more than 14 percent. Ireland’s experience shows that austerity in the face of a depressed economy is a terrible mistake to be avoided if possible.

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.

State

SATURDAY, JUNE 16, 2012

State’s jobless rate holds at 6.9 percent ASSOCIATED PRESS

AUSTIN — The Texas jobless rate is holding steady at 6.9 percent despite losses in nearly half of the state’s major hiring sectors in May, according to state unemployment data released Friday.

The Texas Workforce Commission showed the state adding 12,500 nonfarm jobs in May. That is slightly down from April, but enough to keep the Texas unemployment rate below 7 percent for two months in a row for the first time since spring 2009.

The national unemployment rate is 8.2 percent.

“It is good to see Texas’ private employers continuing to add to their payrolls,” said Tom Pauken, the agency’s commissioner representing employers.

Agency figures show that while five of the 11 major industries in Texas lost jobs in

May, strong gains in the professional services (8,500 jobs) and leisure and hospitality (6,900 jobs) sectors kept the unemployment rate from slipping. Government shed the most jobs last month, losing 2,800 workers.

Unemployment rates are adjusted for seasonal trends in hiring and firing, which most economists believe give a more accurate picture of the job market. Without the seasonal adjustment, the jobless rate in Texas rose to 6.9 percent in May from 6.5 percent in April.

Midland’s unemployment rate of 3.8 percent remains the lowest in the state. The highest is in the McAllen-Edinburg-Mission area at 10.8 (10.1).

The preliminary local jobless rates for other border, Valley and South Texas cities for May, with revised April numbers in parentheses, were Corpus Christi 6.4 (6.1); El Paso 9.3 (8.8); Laredo 7.0 (6.6); and Victoria 5.8 (5.5).

Man could get life term ASSOCIATED PRESS

HOUSTON — A retired Texas firefighter convicted of fatally shooting his unarmed neighbor during a dispute over a noisy birthday party was described as abusive and a bad neighbor Thursday during the punishment phase of his trial.

Raul Rodriguez, 47, was convicted of murder Wednesday in the 2010 death of Kelly Danaher, a 36-year-old elementary school teacher. Rodriguez argued he was within his rights under Texas’ version of a stand-your-ground law.

The punishment phase began Thursday with prosecutors in Houston presenting neighbors, former co-workers and Rodriguez’s ex-wife. They testified Rodriguez was abusive, a bad neighbor and had once shot a dog.

Defense attorneys won’t get their chance to call witnesses until June 25.

Rodriguez could be sentenced to life in prison.

Photo by Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle | AP

Mindy Danaher reacts to the guilty verdict against her husband’s killer, Raul Rodriguez, in Houston. A jury convicted Rodriguez of murdering his neighbor during a confrontation.

Rodriguez was angry about the noise coming from Danaher’s home, where the family was having a birthday party for Danaher’s wife and young daughter. Rodriguez went to the home and got into an argument with Danaher and two other men attending the party.

In a 22-minute video he recorded that night, Rodriguez can be heard telling a dispatcher “my life is in

danger now” and “these people are going to go try and kill me.” He then said, “I’m standing my ground here,” and shot Danaher after somebody appeared to grab his camera.

THE ZAPATA TIMES 5A

Nation

6A THE ZAPATA TIMES

SATURDAY, JUNE 16, 2012

List of accusations published

By ALICIA A. CALDWELL ASSOCIATED PRESS

WASHINGTON — The U.S. government has revealed details of serious allegations against Secret Service agents and officers since 2004, including claims of involvement with prostitutes, leaking sensitive information, publishing pornography, sexual assault, illegal wiretaps, improper use of weapons and drunk-

en behavior. It wasn’t immediately clear how many of the accusations have been confirmed.

The heavily censored list, which runs 229 pages, was quietly released under the U.S. Freedom of Information Act to The Associated Press and other news organizations following the Secret Service prostitution scandal that erupted in April in Colombia. It describes accusations filed

against Secret Service employees with the Homeland Security Department’s inspector general.

Some of the accusations occurred as recently as last month. In many cases, the government noted that some of the claims were resolved administratively, and others were being formally investigated.

The new disclosures of so many serious accusations lend weight to con-

Romney wants legislation

By KASIE HUNT

cerns expressed by Congress that the prostitution scandal exposed a culture of misconduct within the Secret Service. Secret Service Director Mark Sullivan apologized for the incident during a hearing in May but insisted that what happened was isolated.

Secret Service officials did not immediately respond Friday.

Sen. Susan Collins, a Maine Republican who has

Photo by Fernando Vergara/file | AP

People walk past Hotel El Caribe in Cartagena, Colombia. The U.S. government revealed details of serious allegations Friday against Secret Service agents and officers. been investigating the Colombia scandal, said while some of the allegations

were “unfounded or frivolous,” others appear to be legitimate.

ZAPATA COUNTY PUBLIC NOTICE TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION 5310 GRANT

ASSOCIATED PRESS

MILFORD, N.H. — Softening his rhetoric on immigration, likely Republican presidential nominee Mitt Romney said Friday that the status of younger illegal immigrants was important and should be addressed with legislation. He would not say if he would reverse President Barack Obama’s decision to stop deporting some who came to the U.S. as children.

The former Massachusetts governor’s statement echoed the tempered reaction of Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., a Cuban-American who is working on a bill that would allow some illegal immigrants a way to get legal status. Rubio, seen as a top contender for running mate on a Romney ticket, also referred to the decision as a short-term answer and criticized the policy as ignoring the Constitution and going around Congress.

Romney’s reaction to Obama’s announcement was significantly softer in tone than his rhetoric during the contentious GOP primary campaign. Ahead of January’s Iowa caucuses, when he faced the challenge of winning over the right-wing base of the GOP, he vowed to veto the socalled DREAM Act, a bill backed by Democrats that

The County of Zapata will hold a public hearing at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 19, 2012 at the Zapata County Courthouse Commissioners' Courtroom, 200 East th Avenue, Suite 115, Zapata,Texas 78076. This public hearing is being held to discuss the submission of an application to the Texas Department of Transportation to acquire 5310 Transportation Grant Funding as a direct agency. The purpose of this meeting is to offer citizens the opportunity to voice their concerns on available transportation in Zapata County and to encourage citizens to participate in the development of the 5310 Transportation Program.

Photo by Evan Vucci | AP

Republican presidential candidate, former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney speaks during a campaign stop at the Scamman Farm in Stratham, N.H., on Friday. would have created a path to citizenship for illegal immigrants brought to the U.S. as children. Instead of emphasizing the plight of illegal immigrants, Romney focused on the consequences illegal immigration has for U.S. jobs.

On Friday, Romney spoke to reporters outside his campaign bus on the opening day of a six-state tour and a few hours after Obama’s announcement.

He would not answer shouted questions about whether he would reverse the order if elected.

“It’s an important matter to be considered and should be solved on a longterm basis so they know what their future would be in this country,” Romney said. Obama’s executive order to allow some illegal

immigrants to obtain work permits and stay in the U.S. legally was problematic, he said, because “an executive order is a short-term matter. It can be reversed by subsequent presidents.”

Romney has previously supported a path to legal status for illegal immigrants who serve in the military.

The changed tone reflects the demands of the general election. Republicans are working to woo Hispanic voters who have supported Democrats in previous presidential elections. They’re particularly critical, advisers say, in states like Nevada and Colorado, where significant Mexican and Central American populations are especially worried about immigration policy.

Citizens unable to attend this meeting may submit their views and opinions to Zapata County Judge Joseph Rathmell at the Zapata County Courthouse, 200 East 7th Avenue, Zapata, Texas 78076.

Persons with disabilities who wish to attend this meeting should contact the Zapata County Nutrition Center at (956) 765-4590 to arrange for assistance. Individuals who require auxiliary aids including translators or other services for this meeting should contact the Zapata County Nutrition Center prior to the meeting so that appropriate arrangements can be made.

Habra una Adiencia Publica el dia 19 de junio del 2012 a las 5:30 p.m. en Zapata County Courthouse Commissioners' Courtroom (Casa de corte del condado de Zapata) 200 East 7th Avenue, Suite 115, Zapata, Texas 78076. EI propos ito de esta audencia es para dar oportunida a los residents que presenten las necesidades de su comunidad y participen en el desarrollo de un presupuesto que se entregara al estado para recibir fondos por EI condado de Zapata de Transportacion. Se presentara informacion de las actividades eligibles y de proyectos anteriores.

Para mas informacion, por favor lIame al (956) 765-4590.

SÁBADO 16 DE JUNIO DE 2012

Agenda en Breve ZAPATA 06/20 — Se transmitirá el especial “Mariachi High”, un especial de la serie del Festival de Artes de Verano de PBS, a las 6 p.m. en la Escuela Secundaria Zapata.

Evento gratuito y abierto al público en general, pero se requiere reservar su espacio.

En PBS se transmitirá el 29 de junio a las 9 p.m. a través de KLRN.

LAREDO 06/16 — Hijos de exalumnos de St. Mary’s, en sociedad con Project Kids Aid with Lemonade, tendrán su segunda campaña de recaudación de fondos para beneficio del Banco de Alimentos del Sur de Texas, durante el partido de béisbol Laredo Lemurs en el Estadio Uni-Trade, a partir de las 7:30 p.m. Se venderá limonada y galletas.

06/16 — Proyecto de Teatro LCC Summer Stock presenta ‘Night, Mother’ de Marsha Norman, a las 7:30 p.m. en el teatro del Guadalupe and Lilia Martinez Fine Arts Center de Laredo Community College. Costo general: 7 dólares; estudiantes, 5 dólares. Otra presentación el 17 de junio a las 3 p.m.

06/18 — Laredo Ratlesnakes recibe a Corpus Christi Hammerheros a las 7:05 p.m. en Laredo Energy Arena en la “Diabetes Awareness Night”. Boletos a partir de los 10 dólares. Se rifará un jersey al terminar el partido.

Más información en el (956) 242-6410.

06/19 — Laredo Heat Soccer Club recibe a Austin Aztex a las 8:15 p.m. en el Complejo Soccer de TAMIU. Costos: general, 5 dólares; niños de 12 años y menores, 1 dólares; VIP, 20 dólares.

06/21 — Se transmitirá el especial “Mariachi High”, un especial de la serie del Festival de Artes de Verano de PBS, a las 6 p.m. en Texas A&M International University. Evento gratuito y abierto al público en general, pero se requiere reservar su espacio. En PBS se transmitirá el 29 de junio a las 9 p.m. a través de KLRN. 06/21 — Proyecto de Teatro LCC Summer Stock presenta ‘The Odd Couple’ (Female version) de Neil Simon, a las 7:30 p.m. en el teatro del Guadalupe and Lilia Martinez Fine Arts Center de Laredo Community College. Costo general: 7 dólares; estudiantes, 5 dólares. Otras presentaciones, el 22 y 23 de junio a las 7:30 p.m. y el 24 de junio a las 3 p.m.

NUEVO LAREDO, MÉXICO 06/16 — Estación Palabra invita a “Bazar de Arte” a las 12 p.m.; Lecturas antes de abordar: “Celebración del 164 Aniversario de Nuevo Laredo” a la 1 p.m.; Festival Infantil: “Celebración del 164 Aniversario de Nuevo Laredo” a las 2 p.m.; Taller de Creación Literaria con Jacobo Mina a las 3 p.m.

06/16 — Museo para Niños: Colores y Dibujos en la Sala de Servicios Educativos del Centro Cultural, a las 4 p.m. Entrada libre.

06/16 — Concierto de Alejandro Filio a las 7 p.m. en el Teatro Principal del Centro Cultural.

06/17 — Laberintus Arte y Cultura, A.C. presenta “Historia del Otro Lado” de Ángel Hernández, a las 12 p.m. en el Teatro del IMSS, Reynosa y Belden. Costo: 20 pesos. Apta para toda la familia.

06/20 — Se presenta la obra de teatro “Desazón” de Víctor Hugo Rascón Banda a las 6 p.m. en Teatro del IMSS. 06/23 — Juego de Béisbol del Recuerdo ‘Fundadores’ a las 6 p.m. en el Parque de Béisbol La Junta.

Zfrontera

PÁGINA 7A

Sigue en espera POR JJ VELASQUEZ TIEMPO DE ZAPATA

No se tomó ninguna acción durante la junta de la Corte de los Comisionados del Condado de Zapata el lunes para aprobar la construcción de una clínica de diálisis de riñón, ya que se sigue trabajando en los detalles del plan, dijeron oficiales del condado.

El comisionado José E. Vela dijo que los oficiales del condado recibieron un correo electrónico el domingo de un representante de Da Vita, una corporación de diálisis de riñón, diciendo que el acuerdo todavía se tenía que finalizar. Vela dice que al el le había dicho que el acuerdo estaría listo la próxima junta regu-

lar en julio.

“Esperaremos a ver que pasa, y lo revisaremos primero antes de la reunión,” dijo Vela.

Traer un centro de diálisis ha estado en la agenda del condado por un tiempo. Hace meses, la corte señaló a Vela para ser el encargado del proyecto.

Jeff Boroczky, un representante de Da Vita, hizo una presentación el la junta de la Corte de los Comisionados en mayo. Boroczky pidió al condado un incentivo para operar aquí porque el condado tiene apenas 35 pacientes de diálisis y eso no proveería una clientela suficiente para hacer al negocio financieramente viable.

El condado ha ofrecido construir la estruc-

tura en la que estará la clínica de diálisis.

La estructura propuesta se cree cuesta más de 65.000 dólares dependiendo del tamaño de la clínica. Entre los planes del condado está considerar una estructura de 6.500 pies cuadrados que estaría localizado como a dos acres de tierra de la calle Rathmell.

Oficiales del condado esperan que la clínica aligere la carga de viajar de los residentes que reciben diálisis, quienes viajan de dos a tres veces a la semana a Laredo o San Antonio para su tratamiento.

La próxima junta regular está programada para el 9 de julio.

(JJ Velásquez puede ser localizado en el 728-2579 ó jjvelasquez@lmtonline.com)

Foto de cortesía / PBS

Integrantes del Mariachi Halcón de Zapata son el tema de un documental de PBS, que se exhibirá en Zapata, Laredo y por televisión.

SONIDOS DE ZAPATA Documental ‘Mariachi High’ destaca a estudiantes locales POR MELISSA SANTILLANA TIEMPO DE ZAPATA

En 1992 fue conformado Mariachi Halcón de la escuela de Zapata High School. Actualmente lo forman 24 estudiantes: 12 violinistas, tres trompetistas, dos jóvenes que tocan el guitarrón, tres en la vigüela y cuatro guitarristas.

Adrián Padilla es el director con 21 años de carrera dando clase y tocando música de mariachi.

Antes que Padilla los dirigiera, José Solís estaba a cargo del grupo.

Fue en 2008 cuando unos productores contactaron a Padilla después de haber visto al mariachi en el concurso de San Antonio Mariachi Vargas Extravaganza. Los productores expresaron su admiración e interés en entre-

vistarlos y verlos tocar.

Tomaron video y los entrevistaron. Después en el 2010 volvieron a llamar con la noticia de que querían visitar al mariachi de nuevo. En esta segunda ocasión la productora Ilana Trachtman estaba presente y entrevistó a todos los integrantes del mariachi, incluyendo a su director. Al pasar un mes, Padilla recibió la llamada que le anunciaba que Mariachi Halcón había sido seleccionado para la realización de un documental en PBS. “La música mariachi es muy bonita…y son los alumnos con las mejores calificaciones en la escuela porque quieren participar”, dijo Padilla. Los muchos que alguna vez formaron parte del mariachi siguen tocando en la universidad o trabajando a través de la música para poder mante-

nerse.

“Mariachi High” es el documental de PBS que los representa ganando, perdiendo, aceptando su situación y la manera en que conviven con otra gente. “Es algo muy bonito y muy positivo lo que se está dando”, dijo Padilla. “Y hacer saber que los muchachos mexicanos o tejanos no son todos pandilleros, no son drogadictos… no son malos. Somos iguales que todos los demás”.

Mariachi Halcón ha ganado el concurso Mariachi Vargas tres veces, obtuvo el primer lugar en Nuevo México en el Mariachi Spectacular de Alburquerque y es el segundo año en el que ganan el MASBA (Mexican-American School Board Association) “La música es algo muy personal para mí porque a mi papá le encantaba la música de mariachi

Plan detendría deportaciones POR LUIS ALONSO LUGO ASSOCIATED PRESS

WASHINGTON — El plan anunciado el viernes por el presidente Barack Obama para suspender las deportaciones y ofrecer permisos de trabajo por dos años a inmigrantes no autorizados menores de 30 años es visto por unos como un avance en materia migratoria y por otros como un acto de campaña.

“Es la medida correcta”, dijo Obama en la Casa Blanca horas después de que la secretaria de seguridad nacional Janet Napolitano anunciara la medida que ofrece un alivio temporal y por vía administrativa a cientos de miles de personas que esperan beneficiarse del

proyecto de ley Dream Act. “Esto no es una amnistía, esto no es inmunidad.

Esto no es una vía para la naturalización, no es una solución permanente. Esto es una medida temporal”, remarcó el mandatario.

“No tiene sentido expulsar a jóvenes talentosos”, dijo Obama y añadió que tomaba la medida ante la falta de decisión del Congreso “para reparar nuestro sistema quebrado”.

Los beneficiarios de esta medida necesitan haber ingresado a Estados Unidos cuando eran menores de 16 años, haber residido de manera continua en el país durante los últimos cinco años y encontrarse actualmente en su territorio, cursar estudios actual-

mente, haber culminado la educación secundaria, obtenido un certificado de educación general (GED por sus siglas en inglés) o haber servido en las Fuerzas Armadas y la Guardia Costera.

También necesitan no haber sido sentenciados por delitos mayores, por faltas menores importantes, ni representar amenaza alguna a la seguridad pública. Los inmigrantes no autorizados menores de 16 años no podrán solicitar la anulación de su proceso de deportación, pero funcionarios dijeron que no serán deportados.

Napolitano agregó que la medida podría beneficiar a unas 800.000 personas.

especialmente”, dijo Padilla. Él inclusive asegura que gracias a su padre formó parte de una banda de mariachi. Dijo que su padre nunca fue músico, tenía la humilde profesión de recoger la basura en Alice, pero aseguró que le enseñó a siempre dar todo por lo que ama.

Ahora la misión de Adrián Padilla es mostrarles a otros muchachos “la fuerza de la música, el poder que tiene la música”.

El documental Mariachi High se exhibirá el miércoles 20 de junio en Zapata High School a las 6 p.m., y el jueves 21 en TAMIU en Laredo a las 6 p.m. La premier en KLRN-TV será el 29 de junio a las 9 p.m. como parte del Festival de Arte de Verano de PBS. (Melissa Santillana puede ser localizada en el 728-2580 o msantillana@lmtonline.com)

Aumenta tasa de desempleo POR CHRISTOPHER S. RUGABER ASSOCIATED PRESS

WASHINGTON — El número de solicitudes de prestaciones por desempleo aumentó la semana pasada en Estados Unidos, indicio de que la contratación laboral sigue siendo precaria.

El Departamento del Trabajo dijo el jueves que los beneficios semanales por desempleo subieron la semana pasada en 6.000 a 386.000, frente a 380.000 la semana anterior.

El promedio de cuatro semanas, que elimina las fluctuaciones, subió por tercera semana consecutiva a 382.000, la mayor cifra en

casi dos meses.

Las solicitudes semanales son la marca del ritmo de los despidos. Cuando bajan a menos de 375.000 de forma sostenida, pueden reducir el desempleo.

Las solicitudes bajaron el cuarto y primer trimestre del año pero desde entonces han aumentado.

Al mismo tiempo, la contratación ha bajado. Los patronos agregaron apenas 96.000 empleos por mes en el último trimestre, frente a 252.000 en los tres meses anteriores.

En mayo la tasa del desempleo subió al 8,2% su primera elevación en casi un año.

Mexico

8A THE ZAPATA TIMES

Controversial Baja resort project nixed

By MARK STEVENSON ASSOCIATED PRESS

MEXICO CITY — Mexico announced Friday that it is cancelling provisional permits for an enormous, Cancun-sized resort planned for the Baja California shoreline in front of a protected coral reef, a project that environmentalists said threatened an area that is a model for environmental recovery.

The announcement is meant to protect the Cabo Pulmo reserve, the only coral reef in the Gulf of California, a formerly overfished area where marine life has exploded following a decision almost two decades ago by local residents to stop commercial fishing and develop ecotourism activities instead.

But in 2008, federal authorities granted initial permits for a Spanish developer to build about 30,000 hotel rooms, golf courses and a marina on a strip of seaside desert about a 90-minute drive northeast of the Los Cabos resorts. Two years later, in the face of widespread protests, authorities added a series of conditions, including extensive studies of ocean currents, to ensure that sediment, runoff and waste from the planned resort wouldn’t harm the reef, parts of it just 30 feet offshore.

President Felipe Calderón said Friday the permits were being withdrawn because the developer, which ran into financial problems during Europe’s financial crisis, hadn’t proved the 9,400-acre resort, known as Cabo Cortes, wouldn’t harm the environment.

"Because of its size, we have to be absolutely certain that it (the project) wouldn’t cause irreversible damage, and that absolute certainty simply hasn’t been proved,” Calderón

Eduardo Verdugo/file | AP

Greenpeace activists pose with signs that read “Save Cabo Pulmo” as they protest plans June 4 to build a resort in Cabo Pulmo, on Mexico’s Baja California peninsula. Mexico’s president announced Friday the cancellation of permits for a Cancun-sized resort planned for the Baja California shoreline in front of a protected coral reef. said. “To sum it up, Cabo Cortes won’t be built.”

Fighting the planned resort became one of the main causes of Mexican environmentalists, who staged protests in which demonstrators paraded with tropical fish cutouts, tossed a giant life-ring into the sea and staged petition drives to stop the project.

Omar Vidal, head of the environmental group WWF Mexico, called Friday’s announcement “an important victory, because it shows that when the public organizes, it can achieve great things.”

“This sets an important precedent and sends an important message to Mexican and international investors, that this type of development, based on mass scale and golf courses, is no longer acceptable in Mexico,” Vidal said.

The developer, Madridbased Hansa Urbana, did not immediately respond to request for comment. The company suffered financial setbacks in part because it overextended in building sprawling resorts along the Spanish coast. In 2011, as part of Spain’s reorganization of troubled assets, it was largely acquired by a regional Spanish bank,

Banco Sabadell, which has little experience with such massive resort development. Sabadell’s Mexico office has also not responded to requests for comment.

In the past, supporters of the project had said most of the resort’s land would be left in its natural state.

Calderón said the case showed that “the federal government is sensitive to both the concerns of the inhabitants of the area and the scientific and environmentalist communities, as well as to the needs for legal certainty that any investment requires.”

The fight against the resort has lasted for years, with environmentalists suggesting collusion between government regulators and the developers.

Vidal said that “while this is a victory, this is not the time to let our guard down, because there are other similar projects in the pipeline.”

Calderón has said he wanted to be remembered as an environmentalist president, and during his term strict rules were enacted against projects that alter coastlines by removing mangrove swamps, though enforcement has been spotty.

SATURDAY, JUNE 16, 2012

SATURDAY, JUNE 16, 2012

THE ZAPATA TIMES 9A

ADAN PEREZ Adan Perez, 90, passed away Tuesday, June 12, 2012, at Laredo Medical Center in Laredo.

Mr. Perez is preceded in death by his wife, Maria G. Perez; parents: Guadalupe and Balbina Perez; brothers Eliamar Perez, Abel Perez, Adalberto Perez and Alfonso Perez; and a sisterin-law Felipa G. Perez.

Mr. Perez is survived by his son, Adan (Peggy) Perez; grandson, Adan Paul (Joyce) Perez; granddaughter, Vanessa Maria Perez; brothers Guadalupe (Bertha) Perez and Alvaro (Clementina) Perez; sisters: Evelia (Ramon) Quesada and Minerva Fernandez; sister-in-law Elvira Perez; nieces and nephews: Esiquio G. Perez, Rosa M. Perez, Daniel Perez, Ricardo (Linda) Perez, Adalberto (†Sylvia) Perez Jr., †Erineo Perez, Delma Perez, Maricela P. (Irineo) Salinas and Margarita P. (Ruben Jr.) Villarreal; and by numerous nephews, nieces, grandnieces, grandnephews and many friends.

Visitation hours will be Sunday, June 17, 2012, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. with a rosary at 7 p.m. at Rose Gar-

Investors watching Greece

By MATTHEW CRAFT ASSOCIATED PRESS

den Funeral Home. The funeral procession will depart Monday, June 18, 2012, at 9:30 a.m. for a 10 a.m. funeral Mass at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church.

Burial services will follow at Zapata County Cemetery, including full military honors by the American Legion Post 486 Color Guard. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Rose Garden Funeral Home, Daniel A. Gonzalez, funeral director, 2102 U.S. 83, Zapata.

NEW YORK — Stocks recorded their third big gain of the week and closed at a one-month high Friday because of expectations that the central banks of countries around the world will step in to limit the damage from a debt crisis in Europe.

The Dow Jones industrial average climbed 115 points.

Now investors wait for a crucial election on Sunday in Greece that will help determine whether that country stops using the euro as its currency. Such an exit would destabilize financial markets.

Mario Draghi, president of the European Central Bank, said his institution stood ready to support Europe’s banking system by continuing to lend money to solvent banks. He also appeared to leave open the possibility of an interest rate cut.

Draghi said in Frankfurt that the ECB has a “crucial

role” in extending credit to banks in times of instability, when banks can’t always borrow money on financial markets.

On Thursday, Reuters reported that ECB, the Federal Reserve, the Bank of England and other global financial authorities were ready to act in concert to limit the fallout from Greece.

Investors also are more confident about the election itself, said Peter Tuz, a money manager, at Chase Investment Counsel, which runs mutual funds.

“There’s a growing sense of optimism,” he said. “The betting now is that the ‘let’s stay in the euro’ segment of the population will win.”

Borrowing costs for Spain were unchanged.

They fell slightly for Italy, an indication that investors are feeling a little better about that country’s solvency. They have been worried that Italy will have to seek financial rescue.

The Dow rose 115.26 points to close at 12,767.17, its highest finish since May

11. The Standard & Poor’s 500 index climbed 13.74 points to 1,342.84, also its highest since May 11. The Nasdaq composite index rose 36.47 points to 2,872.80.

For the week, the Dow rose 0.9 percent, the S&P 1 percent and the Nasdaq 1.3 percent.

The week included four moves of 100 points or more for the Dow, the first time that has happened since April: On Monday, the Dow lost 142 points as enthusiasm faded for a $125 billion rescue of Spanish banks.

On Tuesday, the Dow climbed 162 after a Federal Reserve official said he supported more measures to stimulate the economy.

On Thursday, the Dow gained 155, primarily because of late reports about possible coordinated action by central banks.

Energy stocks rose the most Friday. OPEC oil ministers agreed Thursday to keep their production target steady, a compromise meant to soothe economically troubled countries.

A pair of weak economic reports helped push Treasury prices up and yields down.

A report on U.S. factory production showed a drop in manufacturing, a driver of economic growth. A gauge of manufacturing in New York sank to its lowest level since November.

The yield on the 10-year Treasury note fell to 1.60 percent from 1.64 percent Thursday. Traders have been shifting money into the safety of the Treasury market ahead of the Greek election. That higher demand has kept yields near all-time lows.

Among stocks making big moves: Microsoft rose 68 cents, or 2.3 percent, to $30.02 following reports that the company is in talks to buy Yammer, a developer of social networks within companies.

Capital One Financial rose 80 cents, or 1.5 percent, to $53.81 after the company said uncollectable and delinquent loans dropped last month.

Wary Greeks look to Sunday’s election with uncertainty

By ELENA BECATOROS ASSOCIATED PRESS

ATHENS, Greece — At the dinner table, in the coffee shop, on the street corner, the one constant as Greeks prepare to vote once again is concern, and even fear. Depending on the outcome of Sunday’s election, Greece could be forced out of the European joint currency, with potentially catastrophic consequences for the global economy.

“Everyone now is in a dilemma, just like me. ... We don’t know what tomorrow will bring.

The future is uncertain now,” said Paraskevi Thoma, an unemployed Athens beautician struggling to support a 5-year-old son and 6-month old twins.

Greeks cast their ballots Sunday for the second time in six weeks, after May 6 elections left no party with enough seats in Parliament to form a government and coalition talks collapsed.

The debt-ridden country’s twoyear financial crisis has left much of the nation in tatters, tearing at its social fabric. Hospitals have run out of supplies, suicides have been on the increase and unemployment has skyrocketed to above 22 percent as thousands of businesses shut down.

The protracted crisis has also overturned Greece’s political scene, hammering the two parties that have dominated for decades and whom Greeks blame for sending their country from boom to bust in the space of just a few years.

“We want something better for the country and for ourselves, but we don’t know who to vote

for,” Thoma said. “With what criteria should we vote? Whoever you vote for I don’t believe that the day after it’ll be paradise and we’ll be eating with golden spoons ... I don’t expect it, no matter who wins.”

If Greeks reject the strict austerity measures taken in return for billions of euros in rescue loans from other European countries and the International Monetary Fund, they could be forced out of the euro, which in turn would likely drag down other financially troubled countries and rip apart the euro itself.

“In these elections, the survival of the Greek economy and its integration in Europe is at stake,” said Dimitris Sotiropoulos, associate professor of political science at Athens University.

“There’s nothing more and nothing less to it.”

The last opinion polls published before a pre-election ban showed the anti-austerity radical left Syriza party neck-and-neck with the conservative New Democracy party. Neither was projected to win enough votes to form a government alone, leaving a coalition as the only option to avoid yet another election.

While the publication of polls in the two weeks before the vote is barred by law, the Athens Stock Exchange soared to close 10 percent up Thursday on rumors that New Democracy might be pulling ahead. But with a sizeable chunk of the electorate undecided until the last minute, the result could go either way.

Syriza leader Alexis Tsipras, a 37-year-old former student activist, has pledged to rip up Greece’s

international bailout agreement and repeal the austerity measures the previous governments took in return for the loans.

Riding high on anti-austerity sentiment and anger with Greece’s political establishment, his party — a coalition of 12 small and often fringe left-wing groups — came a surprise second on May 6 behind New Democracy.

He won nearly 17 percent of the vote, quadrupling his support since the 2009 elections.

“I don’t expect things will be better, I’m afraid they will get worse,” said Stelios Ratsikas, a 41-year-old unemployed shop worker in the northern city of Thessaloniki. “I voted in anger last time, but this time I will look at things more logically.”

He wasn’t alone in his choice.

Furious at the handling of a twoyear financial crisis that has plunged the country into a deep recession now in its fifth year, many voters say they cast ballots in anger, or threw their weight behind parties they don’t necessarily agree with.

“I will vote for Syriza, not because I believe in it, but because it’s better to vote for someone who hasn’t made any mistakes yet ... than for someone who has made so many mistakes already and now wants me to vote for them again,” said Gogo Brezati, who runs a clothing shop in central Athens. “There’s no ideology any more anyway.”

And there was hope mingled with the concern.

“I’m very optimistic. When we hit the bottom, I’m always optimistic,” she said. “There is a bit further down to go, but this had

Photo by Nikolas Giakoumidis | AP

The shadow of Democratic Left leader Fotis Kouvelis is seen as he speaks to his supporters during a rally in Thessaloniki, on Friday. Greece faces crucial national elections on Sunday, that could ultimately determine whether the debt-saddled, recession bound country remains in the eurozone. Banner reads “for a solution.” to happen, to shake up the conscience of the people.”

Tsipras’ pledges, which include canceling planned privatizations, nationalizing banks and rolling back cuts to minimum wages and pensions, have horrified European leaders as well as many Greeks. Although he insists he

can persuade other European nations that it is in their interests to keep Greece within the euro, his political opponents have accused him of being out of touch with reality, saying his policies will force Greece out of the euro and lead to mass poverty for years to come.

10A THE ZAPATA TIMES

SATURDAY, JUNE 16, 2012

Center cares for dog found during fires

By PATRICK BEACH AUSTIN AMERICAN-STATESMAN

AUSTIN — The Labor Day wildfires were still burning when a good Samaritan picked up the border collie mix, maybe 8 weeks old, in rural Bastrop County.

The pup had suffered burns on his rump, tail and back. He had a mostly black coat, with white on his chest and paws. He had no tags, no collar, no microchip. The staff at the old Austin animal shelter near Lady Bird Lake decided to call him Cinders.

They noticed he had limited use of his back legs.

After ruling out disease and a fire-related injury as the possible cause, a CT scan at Texas A&M Univer-

sity showed the animal had malformed vertebrae pressing on his spinal cord.

Two months of therapy didn’t do as much for Cinders as had been hoped.

Back in Austin, he made progress, sort of, by pogoing around with his back legs and using his front legs normally. The disability didn’t affect his energy or his puppy attitude.

“When he sees a squirrel or a bird, he’s definitely going to be after it,” said Rachel Hays, a veterinarian at the new Austin Animal Center in East Austin who has cared for Cinders.

He improved enough that a scheduled amputation of the bum limbs was called off. The next step was to get him a cart with wheels, adjustable enough

to accommodate him no matter how big he gets. It essentially terrified him for a week, but a volunteer got him over his initial anxiety.

Now the tread on the tires are worn down.

“He can run away from us now,” Hays said. “I’ve had several embarrassing moments of chasing him in his cart.”

He loves to go outside and play in the morning, and he plops down on the ground when it’s time to go back inside.

“Walking-wise, he’s definitely gotten better,” said Victor Reyna, a tech at the center.

Partly because he’s been a shelter dog for almost his entire life, he’s incontinent, Hays said, and wears a diaper when he’s inside.

IMMIGRATION Continued from Page 1A tional Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials’ annual conference in Orlando, Fla. Republican presidential challenger Mitt Romney is to speak to the group on Thursday.

“Many of these young people have already contributed to our country in significant ways,” Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano wrote in a memorandum describing the administration’s action. “Prosecutorial discretion, which is used in so many other areas, is especially justified here.”

The policy closely tracks a proposal being drafted by Republican Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida, a potential vice presidential running mate for Romney, as an alternative to the DREAM Act, formally the Development, Relief and Education of Alien Minors Act. While many Republican lawmakers decried the Obama administration’s move, Rubio offered a tempered response.

“Today’s announcement will be welcome news for many of these kids desperate for an answer, but it is a short-term answer to a longterm problem,” Rubio said in a statement. “And by once again ignoring the Constitution and going around Congress, this shortterm policy will make it harder to find a balanced and responsible long-term one.”

The change drew a swift repudiation from Republican lawmakers, who accused Obama of circumventing Congress in an effort to boost his political standing and of favoring illegal immigrants over unemployed U.S. citizens.

“President Obama and his administration once again have put partisan politics and illegal immigrants ahead of the rule of law and the American people,” Rep. Lamar Smith of Texas, GOP chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, said in a statement.

Republicans including Romney say they want tighter border security measures before they will consider changes in immigra-

“

President Obama and his administration once again have put partisan politics and illegal immigrants ahead of the rule of law.”

REP. LAMAR SMITH OF TEXAS

tion law. Romney opposes offering legal status to illegal immigrants who attend college but has said he would do so for those who serve in the armed forces.

Praise for the new policy was also swift. Sen. Dick Durbin of Illinois, the No. 2 Senate Democrat, called the decision “an historic humanitarian moment” and compared it to the decision two decades ago to give political asylum to Cuban refugees fleeing the communist island. “This is at least a reflection of that moment in history.”

In New York, Mayor Michael Bloomberg said, “Ending deportations of innocent young people who have the potential to drive tomorrow’s economy is long overdue, as are many commonsense reforms needed to center our immigration policy around our economic needs.”

Midway through his remarks, Obama was interrupted by a reporter from a conservative online publication, Neil Munro of the Daily Caller, who shouted, “Why do you favor foreigners over American workers?” Clearly irritated, Obama said that he was explaining the policy, not looking for an argument, and that the change was the “right thing to do for the American people.”

Napolitano said Friday the decision “is well within the framework of our existing laws.”

“We should not forget that we are a nation of laws and a nation of immigrants,” she said. “With respect to these young people, deferred action, the decision I announced today, is simply

the right thing to do.”

The Obama administration’s deportation policies have come under fire, and Latino leaders have raised the subject in private meetings with the president. In 2011, Immigration and Customs Enforcement deported a record 396,906 people and is expected to deport about 400,000 this year.

A December poll by the Pew Hispanic Center showed that 59 percent of Latinos disapproved of the president’s handling of deportations.

The administration announcement comes ahead of an expected Supreme Court decision on Arizona’s tough 2010 immigration law that, among other things, requires police to ask for immigration papers from anyone they stop or arrest and suspect is in the country illegally. The Obama administration has challenged the law.

The exact details of how the program will work, including how much immigrants will have to pay to apply and what proof they will need, still are being worked out.

Administration officials stopped short of calling the change an administrative DREAM Act, but the qualifications track with those laid out in a 2010 version that failed in the Senate after passing in the House. They said comprehensive overhaul of the immigration system remained an administration priority.

Illegal immigrant children won’t be eligible to apply for the deportation waiver until they turn 16, but officials said younger children won’t be deported, either.

Mariachi Halcon to make television debut

By MELISSA SANTILLANA LAREDO MORNING TIMES

Adrian Padilla, the musical director of Mariachi Halcon, was 14 years old when he started playing mariachi in Alice.

Padilla remembers that John Vela was the musical director who taught him everything about mariachi music. Ever since he got interested in mariachi and grew fond of the music.

He continued to play mariachi music while studying at Texas A&M Kingsville.

As of now, he has built a career of 21 years teaching music and playing mariachi.

Mariachi Halcon of Zapata High School was formed in 1992. It is made up of 24 students: 12 violinists, three trumpeters, two on the guitarrón (Mexican acoustic bass), three on the vigüela (typical mariachi guitar) and four guitar players.

Before Padilla, Jose Solis was in charge of the group.

It was in 2008 when producers contacted Padilla after seeing Mariachi Halcon during a San Antonio competition, Mariachi Vargas Extravaganza. The producers expressed their admiration and said they wanted to interview the group and watch them play.

They took video footage and interviewed the members of the band. Later in 2010, they called Padilla again, announcing they wanted to visit the band once more. This time producer Ilana Trachtman was among the crew and interviewed each of the members, including the director. A month later, Padilla received a call notifying him Mariachi Halcon

Courtesy photo

The Mariachi Halcón of Zapata High School is the subject of a Public Broadcast System program which will be screened Wednesday at the high school, beginning at 6 p.m., and Thursday at TAMIU, also at 6 p.m. The premier on KLRN-TV will be June 29 at 9 p.m. as part of the PBS Arts Summer Festival. had been selected for the making of a documentary that will be shown on national television.

Padilla said music influences much of the life of the boys and girls, especially their behavior.

“Mariachi music is very beautiful … and because they want to participate they are some of the students with the best grades in school,” said Padilla.

Many of the students who once were part of the mariachi keep playing in college or play music to make a living.

“Mariachi High” is the PBS documentary that represents the members of Mariachi Halcon winning, loosing and accepting their situation and the way in which they hang out with other people.

“What’s happening here is something very beautiful and positive,” said Padilla.

“Making people aware that not all Mexican or Texan kids are gang members or drug addicts … not all of them are bad.

We are the same like everyone else.”

Mariachi Halcon has

won the Mariachi Vargas Extravaganza three times, received first place in New México’s Mariachi Spectacular of Albuquerque, and won the Mexican-American School Board Association award twice.

“Music is something very personal for me because my dad loved music, especially mariachi,” Padilla said. He said thanks to his father he started a mariachi band. Padilla said his father was never a musician; he was a dustman in Alice, but he said his father taught him to always give everything for what he loves.

Now Padilla’s mission is to teach other kids “the sturdiness of music, the power of music.”

The documentary “Mariachi High” will screen Wednesday at Zapata High School at 6 p.m., and Thursday at TAMIU at 6 p.m. The premier on KLRN-TV will be June 29 at 9 p.m. as part of the PBS Arts Summer Festival.

(Melissa Santillana may be reached at728-2580 or msantillana@lmtonline.com)

SATURDAY, JUNE 16, 2012

ON THE WEB: THEZAPATATIMES.COM

Sports&Outdoors HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETICS

Six earn honors

“

CLARA SANDOVAL OVAL

All-City squad strong

I

Photo by Clara Sandoval | The Zapata Times

Mikey Alvarez (football), Rafael Benavidez (cross-country and track), Andy Gonzalez (basketball), Trey Alvarez (tennis), Tony Gutierrez (golf) and Manuel Salinas (baseball) were named to the Zapata Times’ inaugural male All-City team this week.

Male All-City team hosts year’s greatest athletes

By CLARA SANDOVAL THE ZAPATA TIMES

Last week the Zapata Times unveiled the inaugural All-City female team. Now it is the male’s turn. Six Hawks stood out for their great athletic abilities on the field, diamond, course or track.

Some players were chosen because they led their team to district titles and playoff appearances. Others were the most valuable player on their team.

The Zapata Times male All-City team

consists of two underclassman and four seniors who enjoyed spectacular senior years.

Mikey Alvarez, Sophomore, Football At first glance, Alvarez does not look like the big, bruising fullback most people expect in the backfield, but his first step off the line of scrimmage makes everyone forget he weighs about 150 pounds.

Alvarez picked up 1,300 yards on the ground and 100 yards receiving to earn MVP honors from District 32-3A coaches.

Alvarez scored a district-leading 21 touchdowns.

“Mikey is one of those kids that you build your offense around,” Zapata football coach Mario Arce said. “He is very quick and has great vision with great hands. He is the type of kid that plays big and does not want to let the team down so

have been fortunate to cover some great Zapata athletes during my time at The Zapata Times. I enjoy meeting the athletes I write so much about.

When I finally meet them face to face, I am not sure who is more excited, the athletes or me.

I have covered Zapata from the elementary level to the college level, and I enjoy every article I write about these young men and women.

It’s great when I get to see them succeed at the college level since not everyone gets that opportunity.

Luis Flores and Marlena Garcia, who represent the University of Texas-Pan American, have been very successful for the Broncs.

Zapata might not be high on the list of most college recruiters, yet it has produced many great athletes.

Today we are unveiling The Zapata Times males All-City team. It is a very solid group that has made coaches across District 32-3A take notice of Zapata’s talent.

Just looking at Mikey Alvarez.

You might think he’s maybe on the wrong field, but he fools everyone with his skills despite his stature. He plays bigger than his size and is all heart when he suits up for the Hawks.

Alvarez has yet to miss a summer workout, but does that really surprise anyone? No, because of the type of committed player he is. And he expects his teammates to put forth the same off-season effort because any great athlete knows the battles of the gridiron are won in the summer.

Rafael Benavidez is just fun to watch run in cross-country and track.

See ALL-CITY PAGE 2B See COLUMN PAGE 2B

SUMMER CAMPS

PROSPECT LEAGUE

Volleyball Flores strong in summer showdown camp comes to Zapata

By CLARA SANDOVAL THE ZAPATA TIMES

By CLARA SANDOVAL THE ZAPATA TIMES

Volleyball athletes around Zapata that want to get an edge on their competition and improve on their fundamentals have an opportunity at the first Annual Volleyball camp.

The camp will run Friday and Saturday at Zapata High School, and is divided into two sessions according to age. The first session, for elementary and middle school athletes, costs $35. The second session, for high school volleyball players and incoming freshman, costs $55.

The elementary and middle school session lasts from 9 a.m. to noon. The high school session is split in two parts, lasting from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. and from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Payments are to be made to Oscar Segovia.

Cash or money orders only.

For more information on the camp contact Yvette De Leon at 956-286-9497.

Though this year’s camp marks Segovia’s first foray into Zapata, he has run a camp in the Rio Grande Valley since 1993. Segovia’s Rio Grande Valley Juniors Volleyball camp has produced 28 USAV regional Gold Medals, three bronze and one silver medal at the National qualifying championships.

The Zapata camp will focus on the fundamentals with training game situations.

Former Zapata Hawk Luis Flores continues to raise his level of play in one of the most prestigious collegiate wooden bat summer leagues in the country.

Flores started out red-hot with the Slippery Rock Sliders in his first two appearances on the mound, going 2-0 and sported roughly a 1.50 ERA. He struck out 14 batters in 12 innings of work in his two starts.

In response to his hard work on the mound, Flores was named the Prospect League pitcher of the week for the period ending June 11.

“Being 2-0 in this league is a good start,” Flores said. “I feel relaxed out there because it is a fresh start for me. I am just going out there and have some fun when I am on the mound.”

Flores is now 2-1 and the Sliders are 6-8 in the Prospect League standings.

After playing his junior season with the University of Texas-Pan American, Flores was invited to play in the Prospect League in Slippery Rock, Penn.

The Prospect League has sent more than 800 baseball players to the Major League Baseball ranks in its 63 years of existence.

“Coach (Shwan) Pynn called my college coach and asked if I was interested in playing in the league, and I just jumped on the opportunity,” Flores said. “If you want to get noticed for

See FLORES PAGE 2B

Courtesy photo

Luis Flores, who plays for UT-PA during the regular season, has a 1.50 ERA in the Prospect League this summer.

PAGE 2B

Zscores

SATURDAY, JUNE 16, 2012

Superstars take Finals to Miami for game 3

By BRIAN MAHONEY ASSOCIATED PRESS

OKLAHOMA CITY — Kevin Durant had the ball in his hands and LeBron James in his face.

With 10 seconds left in Game 2, the NBA Finals were providing all the theater anyone could ask.

Two superstars going head-to-head, the Miami Heat trying to hold off another stirring rally by the Oklahoma City Thunder, television ratings reaching levels last seen when Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal played together.

James forced Durant to miss that tying attempt — perhaps getting away with a foul — and the Heat held

on for a 100-96 victory on Thursday night that evened the series at one game apiece. And as it shifts to Miami for the next three games, the only thing that seems certain is a tense series that looks to be lengthy.

Game 3 is Sunday night and Heat coach Erik Spoelstra thinks it will look similar to the first two.

“This is going to be probably like this every single game, and that’s the beauty of competition at this level, and embracing that competition and seeing what it brings out of you collectively,” Spoelstra said.

It’s brought out the best

of league MVP James and Durant, the NBA scoring champion. The series hype was built around them and they spent the first two games living up to every ounce of it.

James has bounced back from his disappointing 2011 finals by scoring 30 and then 32 points, and even that was only good enough for a split because Durant has been just as good. He followed up his 36-point performance in Game 1 by scoring 32 on Thursday, 16 in the fourth quarter after he scored 17 in the final period of the opener. Yet that was wasted because the Thunder had fallen into a 17-point hole in the first half.

Photo by Jeff Roberson | AP

Miami Heat power forward Chris Bosh (center) and company take the NBA finals home to Florida for the next three games of their series against the Oklahoma City Thunder.

The Thunder also spotted Miami a 13-point lead in the first half of Game 1 and have fallen into double-digit holes in three straight games. Coach Scott Brooks said after Game 2 he wasn’t considering a new starting lineup, even though the Thunder have been more effective with a smaller group on the floor.

Instead, he said the only

change the Thunder needed was greater intensity from the start.

“We didn’t come out with the toughness that we need to come out with.

We’re an aggressive team, we’re a physical team,” he said. “Defensive mindset was not where it needs to be, and hopefully we change that going into Game 3.”

The slow starts at home

could mean trouble for the Thunder in Miami, where they won’t have their raucous crowd to help rattle the Heat. But Oklahoma City has been good on the road in the postseason, winning twice in Dallas in the first round, taking a game in Los Angeles in the second round and pulling out a Game 5 victory in San Antonio in the Western Conference finals.

Up and down day for Tiger

By ANTONIO GONZALEZ ASSOCIATED PRESS

SAN FRANCISCO — As quick as Tiger Woods grabbed the U.S. Open lead he lost it To a 17-year-old qualifier, no less.

Going from a first pump to dropping his clubs all over the course, Woods birdied the par-3 third to take a one-shot lead Friday before rolling off three straight bogeys to fall three shots behind 17-year-old Beau Hossler. Woods was 2-over par through eight holes in the second round and 1 over for the tournament.

Hossler made up two strokes in three holes, including a birdie on the par-4 first — which played tougher than any hole on the course in the opening round. He was 2 under through 11 holes and the championship.

The kid from Rancho Santa Margarita down the California coast survived local and sectional qualifying at nearby Daly City, the second straight year he sneaked into this major. Now he’s giving a 14-time major champion all he can handle.

That’s the kind of week it has been so far at The Olympic Club.

Jim Furyk shot a 1-under 69 to move to 1 under for the 36-hole clubhouse lead. Michael Thompson, the leader after 18 holes, was 5 over for the day and three strokes back of Hossler.

Top-ranked Luke Donald and defending champion Rory McIlroy were likely going to miss the cut in what would be swift and stunning exits.

Donald came to the U.S. Open

Photo by Ben Margot | AP

Tiger Woods had an up and down day during the second round of the U.S. Open Championship golf tournament, Friday, at The Olympic Club in San Francisco. with six wins in the past 18 months, more than any other player. Last year, the 34-year-old Englishman pulled off an unprecedented feat by topping the money lists on both the PGA and European tours.

Now he’ll probably miss the weekend for the third time in nine U.S. Open starts.

Donald followed his birdie-free 79 — which even 14-year-old qualifier Andy Zhang matched Thursday — with a less erratic second round. He had five bogeys and three birdies to card a 72, leaving him at an eye-popping 11 under and still without a major.

“That’s the one part of my golfing resume in the last few years, espe-

cially, that I need to continually address and continually improve,” Donald said. “I want to win one more than any of you guys know.”

McIlroy’s slide might be even more startling.

He mixed five bogeys — including one on his final hole — with a pair of birdies for a second-round 73. The 23-year-old from Northern Ireland shattered U.S. Open records last June at rain-softened Congressional, finishing at 268 to break the 72-hole record by four shots, and his 16-under total was four better than Woods’ mark at Pebble Beach in 2000.

What a pushover that course turned out to be.

Courtesy photo

Luis Flores is 2-1 on the mound for the Slippery Rock Sliders in the Prospect League, a wooden bat college league.

FLORES Continued from Page 1B the majors, this is the league that you want to be in.”

One of the greatest challenges of the league isn’t even related to the game played on the diamond, Flores said.

ALL-CITY Continued from Page 1B he puts the team on his back.”

Alvarez has two more years ahead of him and will likely improve each season.

“When you have a kid like Mikey, you want to make sure he progresses and does not get complacent,” Arce said. “We hope he continues to get better.”

Rafael Benavidez, Senior, Cross-Country & Track Benavidez has always been a solid cross-country runner for Zapata but this year he stepped up his game for the Hawks, leading them to state meets.

Individually, Benavidez advanced to the regional competitions in crosscountry and track.

“Rafael was our team captain for the past two years,” Zapata cross-country coach Luis Escamilla said. “He led us to state during his junior year and placed fourth at district this year.”

Benavidez also took his talents to the track team, placing second in the 3200-meter run and earning a trip to regionals.

Benavidez was also exceptional in the classroom, where he ranked number four in his class. His achievements in the classroom and on the track earned him a cross-country scholarship to TAMIU. “He made sure to continue the winning tradition at Zapata High School,” Escamilla said.

Andy Gonzalez, Junior, Basketball After a turbulent year that witnessed the Hawks’ basketball team miss the playoffs, Gonzalez was a bright spot with his scoring ability on the court and his ability to create

when lanes to the basket looked closed.

Gonzalez could score the three on the fly or pull up for a great jumper in the paint to average 12 points per game.

He earned first team all district honors for his hard work.

Gonzalez will likely be the focal point of the Hawks’ rebuilding efforts next year. “He’s a great player and never complains about any challenge I put in front of him,” Zapata basketball coach Juan Villarreal said. “He will be a senior next year and will bring his leadership from football over to basketball. I expect great things from him and the rest of the seniors this upcoming season.”

Trey Alvarez, Sophomore, Tennis No regional 3A tennis player was better than Trey Alvarez this year, who took the Hawks to new heights with the swing of his racket.

Alvarez had a season record of 32-10 and won the District 32-3A tennis title after being out of action last year with a herniated disk that sidelined him for five months.

Alvarez first started to turn heads in a district meet that featured state qualifiers in La Feria.

He held his own, winning the district title and advancing into the playoffs where he eventually lost to Trevor Gittinger of Rockport Fulton, who placed third at state.

“Trey is a hard worker and is usually (the) first to arrive and the last one to leave,” Zapata tennis coach Robert Alvarez said. “He really pushes himself in our conditioning and playing drills.

“Right now he is a champion level player in the USTA. He has been a leader for our team at any early age as he is a sophomore but he is very ma-

“This is the first time that I’ve gone somewhere and not had a single-family member close by,” he said. “I have had to adjust and make friends. I have really enjoyed my time out here.”

COLUMN

ture and has handled everything well.

Trey is also an outstanding student.”

Manuel Salinas, Senior, Baseball Salinas is a name associated with greatness, and he proved it all season long when he was voted District 32-3A’s Most Valuable Player by the coaches after a spectacular season on the diamond.

Salinas carried a big stick at the plate with a .510 batting averaged and 29 singles, seven doubles and three triples.

All that hitting brought in 27 RBIs and scored 29 runs for the Hawks, who placed second in district.

Salinas was named team captain and was a three-year starter for Zapata.

“Manuel is a very respectful and committed young man,” Zapata baseball coach Rene Alvarez said.

Tony Gutierrez, Senior, Golf Gutierrez was simply the best golfer in the district and he proved it when he won the individual boys district title.

As the season trudged on, whispers of how good Gutierrez was grew louder with each passing week.

Gutierrez picked up a few gold medals in pre-season tournaments, but had his eye set on the district title, which he came home with after leading the Hawks to a second place finish in the team standings at the District 32-3A Tournament.

“Tony was the MVP of the district with a first place finish,” Zapata golf coach Clyde Guerra Jr. said. “Tony will be playing golf at TAMIU next year. We are extremely proud of his accomplishments.”

Continued from Page 1B What I enjoy the most of Benavidez is he is just as strong in the classroom as he is in the fast lane with his number four class ranking.

The fact that Benavidez found the time to excel as a student on top of all the practices and meets he participated in should be lauded — a great example of what it means to be a studentathlete.

Andy Gonzalez has some amazing skills on the basketball court and really works hard at what he does.

With a year left in high school, he wants to make the most of this time left. Spending time in the gym could help him lead the Hawks back to the playoffs.

I hope Gonzalez builds on his personal success and leads the Hawks to the promised land.

Trey Alvarez is one of the most exciting young tennis players to pick up a racket for Zapata.

Alvarez is truly committed to leaving his mark, and can usually be found on the tennis court or at a tournament because he knows to get to the state level he has to work on his game year-round.

Alvarez lost in regionals to a guy who wound up third in state, so he knows where his game needs to be to make it to the next level.

Manuel Salinas turns any sport he plays into gold, but it is baseball that he really stands out in.

What he does with his baseball bat at the plate is enviable. Everyone took noticed, including this reporter.

Salinas really puts on a hitting clinic the way he smashed the ball consistently.

He is one of those players that will be truly missed because of how he played.

Tony Gutierrez left the Hawks golf team at the highest level with his district title, but what I like about him is his commitment to the game.

Gutierrez is not just a casual golfer. He hits the links all the time and can really drive the ball.

He will be playing for TAMIU in Laredo and is sure to start making people notice the Dustdevils’ mens’ golf team.

(Clara Sandoval can be reached at sandoval.clara@gmail.com)

SATURDAY, JUNE 16, 2012

THE ZAPATA TIMES 3B

HINTS | BY HELOISE Dear Readers: FATHER’S DAY is tomorrow, and it’s time to thank our fathers for being good dads.

Below are a few of our readers’ classic helpful hints for dad. What are your favorite hints to honor your father?

Corrinne in Texas calls her father every night. He lives in Seattle, and he loves hearing from her daily. She keeps a notebook with her throughout the day to jot down things she doesn’t want to forget to tell him.

Laura’s daughters make their dad a unique breakfast in bed on Father’s Day. Laura only assists, so what the girls come up with can be quite, well, interesting!

Colleen in New York carries on a legacy that was her father’s last wish. He wanted a donation of canned goods made in his name to folks who are in need. The food bank always is grateful for this gesture.

Just a few suggestions to help you make his day bright. For a change, why not ask Dad what HE would REALLY like to do? You may just be surprised at what he says, like something as simple as a movie or a visit to a sportinggoods store. — Heloise PET PAL

“

HELOISE

Dear Readers: Sharon in San Antonio sent a picture of her 10-year-old tricolor beagle, Bailey Bopper, taking a snooze on his favorite blanket. Sharon rescued Bailey from the shelter, where he was scheduled to be euthanized. To see Bailey and our other Pet Pals, visit www.Heloise.com and click on "Pets." — Heloise LETTER OF LAUGHTER Dear Heloise: Last week, I went to the ATM and withdrew $120 from my savings account. Then, after tucking my purse under my front seat, I headed into my favorite mega-retailer with the cash in hand and picked up many much-needed items.

I told the cashier that I had only the $120, so I needed a subtotal along the way as she was ringing up my order. Wouldn’t you know that my purchases, including sales tax, totaled EXACTLY $120! What are the odds?

The cashier suggested that I buy a lottery ticket, but I had no money left over! — Karen in Texas

PARDON MYPLANET

DENNISTHE MENACE

JUDGEPARKER

REXMORGANM.D. DAILY CRYPTOQUOTES | HERE’S HOWTO WORK IT:

FORBETTERORWORSE

Sports

4B THE ZAPATA TIMES

SATURDAY, JUNE 16, 2012

Psychiatric testimony OK’d at Sandusky trial ASSOCIATED PRESS

Photo by Marcio Jose Sanchez | AP

Lance Armstrong, seen here preparing for the final stage of the Tour of California cycling race on Feb. 22, 2009, is under investigation for doping once again, this time by the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency.

Armstrong under doping investigation

By JIM VERTUNO ASSOCIATED PRESS

AUSTIN — Johan Bruyneel, the manager behind Lance Armstrong’s seven consecutive Tour de France victories, is denying accusations from U.S. officials that he helped run a doping operation for the cyclist’s teams.

“I have never participated in any doping activity and I am innocent of all charges,” said Bruyneel, a Belgian who is currently manager of the RadioShack-Nissan-Trek team.

In a statement posted Friday on his website and Twitter, Bruyneel also noted that federal prosecutors closed a nearly twoyear criminal investigation into allegations of doping by Armstrong and his teams without filing any charges.

“It cannot be right that I or anyone else can be pursued from court to court simply because our accusers do not like the

decisions made along the way and so attempt to find a court which will get them the result they want,” Bruyneel said. “I shall of course cooperate fully with the investigation, although I have no doubt the end result will be the same as all the other investigations over the years.”

The U.S. Anti-Doping Agency this week accused Armstrong, Bruyneel and several other associates of being involved in a longstanding doping conspiracy that supplied the champion cyclist’s teams.

Bruyneel’s statement did not mention Armstrong or the others.

USADA is accusing Bruyneel of giving riders or encouraging them to use banned performanceenhancing substances, including the blood-booster EPO, blood transfusions, steroids, human growth hormone and masking agents from 1999-2007.

Bruyneel, a longtime mentor to Armstrong and

member of his inner circle, could face a lifetime ban from the sport if found guilty.

Armstrong, Bruyneel and the others face a June 22 deadline to file a written response to the USADA charges, the first step in what could be a months-long process, leading to a hearing before an arbitration panel to hear the evidence.

According to USADA’s June 12 letter announcing the charges, “numerous riders” from Bruyneel’s teams will testify he either gave them performance-enhancing drugs or encouraged them to use them.

USADA has kept the identity of those riders secret, though former teammates — and admitted drug users — Floyd Landis and Tyler Hamilton have gone public with their accusations. Armstrong’s attorneys have demanded USADA turn over all evidence, including witness names.

BELLEFONTE, Pa. — Jerry Sandusky won a court ruling Friday that will let him have an expert testify about a psychiatric condition that his lawyer says helps explain letters he wrote to his accusers and other actions being construed as him grooming victims.

Judge John Cleland granted a motion that sought to put evidence of “histrionic personality disorder” before jurors in Sandusky’s child sexual abuse case.

Cleland’s order also said the former Penn State assistant football coach must make himself available for prosecutors so they can prepare rebuttal psychiatric testimony.

The American Psychiatric Association’s diagnostic manual calls histrionic personality disorder “a pervasive pattern of excessive emotionality and attention seeking” and “often characterized by inappropriate sexually seductive or provocative behavior” and rapidly shifting emotions.

The defense motion said people with the condition would not necessarily be grooming boys to molest them but instead might be trying to “satisfy the needs of a psyche” with the disorder.

“The jury should not be misled into believing these statements and actions are likely grooming when they are just as likely or more likely histrionic in origin,” wrote defense attorney Karl Rominger in the June 11 filing.

Testimony in the 68year-old former coach’s criminal trial is expected to resume Monday. He faces 52 charges he abused 10 boys over 15

Photo by Nabil K. Mark | AP

Former Penn State assistant football coach Jerry Sandusky arrives for the fourth day of his trial at the Centre County Courthouse in Bellefonte, Pa., on Thursday. years. He has denied the allegations, which led to the ouster of the university president and its longtime coach, Joe Paterno.

Dr. Glen Gabbard, clinical professor of psychiatry at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, said histrionic personality disorder is overwhelmingly diagnosed in women and could in no way be seen as a reason or explanation for the abuse of children.

“That diagnosis, if he has it, would be completely irrelevant to anything having to do with criminal responsibility for acts of pedophilia,” said Gabbard, who is an expert on personality disorders.

“It would make no sense to use this as a defense,” said Gabbard, noting he could not diagnose Sandusky. “You are still very much in control of what you do and what you say.”

The diagnosis involves someone who suffers highly emotional shifts from one state to another, he said, someone who is overly dramatic, seductive and likes being the center of attention. The classic example, Gabbard said, would be Marilyn Monroe.

“These are people who act like your friend when they just barely met you,” he said.