The Zapata Times 9/15/2012

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SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 15, 2012

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STATE

UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS

MHMR to provide evidence

BOMB THREATS SHUT DOWN 3 CAMPUSES

Documents sought by state health agency

By JJ VELASQUEZ THE ZAPATA TIMES

The region’s mental health center will hand over documents to the inspector general’s office of the Texas Health and Human Services Commission as evidence in cases involving the improper use of Sam’s Club cards and the center’s human resources director, who was found to have used its rental car account last year for personal use.

The Border Region Behavioral Health Center Board of Trustees on Wednesday authorized the center’s legal counsel to provide the documents to the inspector general’s office.

Also Wednesday, trustees authorized executive director Daniel Castillon to disci-

pline five employees who improperly used the center’s Sam’s Club cards.

Their action comes several months after they suspended top officials at the center for their alleged involvement in the misuse of the center’s car rental account.

Castillon, Maria Alonso Sanchez, the center’s human resources director, and Rolando Gutierrez, chief financial officer, were suspended in the spring for 10 days without pay in relation to the incident, which involved Sanchez using the account three times last year to rent a vehicle for her daughter.

The center’s trustees took action Wednesday to avoid

See EVIDENCE PAGE 10A

COUNTY

Court tackles infrastructure, lake upkeep

By MIKEAELA RODRIGUEZ THE ZAPATA TIMES

The Zapata County Commissioners Court approved various measures toward improving infrastructure during its meeting Monday, but tabled a motion for county upkeep of Falcon Lake Estate park until certain legal questions can be answered.

The park is federal property and governed by the International Boundary Water Commission. The Falcon Lake Estates homeowner’s association leases the property from the federal government, but the park has been condemned under lock and key for some time. Commissioner Jose Vela said more information from the county attorney is needed to determine whether the county can legally proceed with the park’s upkeep. The homeowners’association would also have to agree to allow the park to be open to the public.

Commissioners also approved a motion to apply for a $260,000 Community Development Block Grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to fund improvements to Mira Flores Street near Fidel and An-

drea R. Villarreal Elementary school.

County Judge Joe Rathmell said Zapata residents had expressed concern over the road’s lack of proper sidewalks, as it is heavily trafficked by school children. Rathmell said the grant will also be used to provide the road with proper drainage to gutters.

The commission also approved an additional $7,000 in funding to improve roads inside the county cemetery, and passed a conservation easement ordinance, which allows Zapata County to seek permission from residents to clear dammed creeks falling within privately owned land.

Commissioner Norberto Garza said last week the obstruction of creeks posed a hazard to Zapata’s irrigation system in certain cases, and the city also sought permission to clear them under the property owner’s request.

“It might have to be amended in the future,” Commissioner Vela said.

“We may change the ordinance to meet our needs.”

(Mikaela Rodriguez may be reached at 956-728-2567 or mrodriguez@lmtonline.com)

Photo by Thao Nguyen | AP

University of Texas students, staff and faculty stand outside after being evacuated from the campus due to a possible bomb threat on Friday in Austin. The campus was eventually deemed safe and reopened by early afternoon. Two other campuses, North Dakota State University and Hiram College in northeast Ohio, were also evacuated because of threats. See story and photo, page 2A.

MEXICO

9 bodies found near NL bridge LAREDO MORNING TIMES

Nine bodies, one of them a teen, were found near a bridge south of Nuevo Laredo, Mexico, on Friday

around 8 a.m., according to the Tamaulipas Attorney General’s Office, in what was described as an “incident related to criminal acts.”

One body was hung from the

bridge at the traffic circle where the National Highway meets Colosio Boulevard. Four more bodies

See BODIES PAGE 10A

CRIME

Two Zapatans face drug charge

By CÉSAR G. RODRIGUEZ THE ZAPATA TIMES

A father and son from Zapata and a Laredoan were arrested

Wednesday on an indictment charging them with conspiring to traffic cocaine from Texas to Georgia, federal officials announced this week.

Enrique Mendez, 40, of Laredo;

Carlos Javier Flores Sr., 48, and Carlos Javier Flores Jr., 27, both of Zapata, are facing charges for con-

See ZAPATANS PAGE 10A

PAGE 2A

Zin brief CALENDAR

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2012

AROUND TEXAS

TODAY IN HISTORY

SATURDAY, SEPT. 15

ASSOCIATED PRESS

The Zapata High School cross country team will compete at Falfurrias, time to be announced.

The Zapata High School volleyball teams will compete with Rio Hondo at 1, 2, and 3 p.m. Sites to be announced.

Today is Saturday, Sept. 15, the 259th day of 2012. There are 107 days left in the year.

Today’s Highlight in History: On Sept. 15, 1887, the city of Philadelphia launched a threeday celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Constitution of the United States.

On this date: In 1776, British forces occupied New York City during the American Revolution.

In 1789, the U.S. Department of Foreign Affairs was renamed the Department of State.

In 1857, William Howard Taft — who served as President of the United States and as U.S. chief justice — was born in Cincinnati, Ohio.

In 1862, Confederate forces captured Harpers Ferry during the Civil War. In 1935, the Nuremberg Laws deprived German Jews of their citizenship.

In 1940, during the World War II Battle of Britain, the tide turned as the Royal Air Force inflicted heavy losses against the Luftwaffe.

In 1942, during World War II, the aircraft carrier USS Wasp was torpedoed by a Japanese submarine; the U.S. Navy ended up sinking the badly damaged aircraft carrier.

In 1950, during the Korean conflict, United Nations forces landed at Incheon in the south and began their drive toward Seoul (sohl).

In 1954, as raucous fans looked on, Marilyn Monroe filmed the famous billowingskirt scene for “The Seven Year Itch” over a Lexington Ave. subway grate in Manhattan (however, little, if any, of the footage ended up in the movie; the scene was later reshot on a Hollywood set).

In 1963, four black girls were killed when a bomb went off during Sunday services at the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Ala. (Three Ku Klux Klansmen were eventually convicted for their roles in the blast.)

In 1972, a federal grand jury in Washington indicted seven men in connection with the Watergate break-in.

In 1982, Iran’s former foreign minister, Sadegh Ghotbzadeh (sah-DEK’ goht-BZAH’deh), was executed after he was convicted of plotting against the government. The first edition of USA Today was published.

Ten years ago: Opposition parties swept Macedonia’s ruling coalition from power in the nation’s first elections since the 2001 armed uprising.

Today’s Birthdays: Comedian Norm Crosby is 85. Actor Henry Darrow is 79. Baseball Hall-of-Famer Gaylord Perry is 74. Opera singer Jessye Norman is 67. Writer-director Ron Shelton is 67. Actor Tommy Lee Jones is 66. Movie director Oliver Stone is 66. Rock musician Kelly Keagy (Night Ranger) is 60. Rock musician Mitch Dorge (Crash Test Dummies) is 52. Actor Danny Nucci is 44.

Actor Josh Charles is 41. Singer Ivette Sosa (Eden’s Crush) is 36. Actor Tom Hardy is 35.

Pop-rock musician Zach Filkins (OneRepublic) is 34. Britain’s Prince Harry is 28.

Thought for Today: “I think the greatest curse of American society has been the idea of an easy millennialism — that some new drug, or the next election or the latest in social engineering will solve everything.” — Robert Penn Warren, American poet (born 1905, died this date in 1989).

SUNDAY, SEPT. 16 The Greens of Guadalupe will hold their Annual Pre-Jamaica MiniRummage Sale from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, 400 Callaghan St. Household items, appliances, electronics, furniture, toys, decorations, jewelry etc. will be on sale. Proceeds will go toward Our Lady of Guadalupe Church hall building fund. For more information, call Birdie Torres at 956-286-7866.

The fourth annual International Cycling Circuit in Laredo will be held today starting at 7 a.m. There will be more than $2,000 in cash prizes offered. The circuit is an 8.7 mile loop beginning .8 miles south of Sierra Vista Boulevard and heads north along Cuatro Vientos. Registration is $35, and those interested can sign up at www.cityoflaredobikerace.com. For more information, contact members of the Laredo Cycle Club for more information, including: Arturo Dominguez at 956-235-4861 or adominguez@abrokeragefirm.com, or Silverio Gonzalez at silverio@zygogroup.com.

MONDAY, SEPT. 17 The Office of Continuing Education will hold its Pharmacy Technician Course from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m in the Student Center, Room 120. Course cost is $4,295. For more information, contact the Office of Continuing Education at 956-326-3068 or continuingeducation@tamiu.edu.

The Laredo Animal Protective Society spay/neuter clinic is today from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Larga Vista Community Center, 5501 Cisneros St. This program is for low-income residents who must show proof of government assistance. Low-cost vaccinations will be available for pets that are to be neutered. Space will be limited. For more information, call Cathy Kazen at 956-763-1402 or LVCC at 956-712-3500.

TUESDAY, SEPT. 18 It’s the last day for the Laredo Animal Protective Society spay/neuter clinic, which will be held from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Larga Vista Community Center. This program is for low-income residents who must show proof of government assistance. Lowcost vaccinations will be available for pets that are to be neutered. Space will be limited. For more information, call Cathy Kazen at 956-763-1402 or LVCC at 956-712-3500.

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 19 J.R. Martinez — a military veteran, survivor, actor, dancer, motivational speaker and father — is Laredo Community College’s first speaker in the 2012-2013 Distinguished Speaker Series at the Martinez Fine Arts Center theater from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. The presentation is free and open to the LCC campus body and the public, although a ticket is required for admission because of limited seating. For more information, call the LCC Office of Student Life at 956-721-5179.

Photo by Ricardo B. Brazziell/Statesman.com | AP

University of Texas students evacuate campus after the university received a bomb threat Friday in Austin at about 8:35 a.m. from a man claiming to be with al-Qaida who said he had placed bombs all over the 50,000-student campus, according to University of Texas spokeswoman Rhonda Weldon.

Threat clears campus

By JIM VERTUNO ASSOCIATED PRESS

AUSTIN — Tens of thousands of people streamed off university campuses in Texas and North Dakota on Friday after telephoned bomb threats prompted officials to warn students and faculty to get away as quickly as possible. Both campuses eventually were deemed safe and reopened by early afternoon, as authorities worked to determine whether the threats were related.

The University of Texas received a call about 8:35 a.m. from a man claiming to be with al-Qaida who said he had placed bombs all over the campus, according to University of Texas spokeswoman Rhonda Weldon. He claimed the bombs would go off in 90 minutes and all buildings were evacuated at 9:50 a.m. as a precaution, Weldon said.

The deadline passed without incident, and

the university reopened all buildings by noon. Classes were canceled for the rest of the day, but other university activities were to resume by 5 p.m.

“We are extremely confident that the campus is safe,” UT President William Powers told a news conference.

North Dakota State University President Dean Bresciani said 20,000 people also were evacuated from his school’s main and downtown campuses in Fargo after the school received its threat. NDSU buildings reopened about 1 p.m. and classes were set to resume an hour later, said Bresciani, adding that the campus had been “deemed safe.”

In Texas, campus sirens wailed and cellphones pinged with text messages when the initial alert when out. Students described more confusion than panic as they exited the sprawling campus.

Woman with alleged cartel ties pleads in gun case

3 bodies found after Killeen apartments burn

Manor bus driver accused of on-board student abuse

AUSTIN — A Texas woman accused of illegally purchasing machine guns for a Mexican drug cartel has pleaded guilty to a federal weapons charge.

Mary Louise Siller, 31, pleaded guilty Friday to possession of a machine gun and faces up to 10 years in prison. She was arrested in July along with her husband and a man accused of brokering the deal.

KILLEEN — Firefighters have discovered three bodies in the burned rubble of a Central Texas apartment complex.

The Killeen Fire Department did not immediately identify the bodies located Friday morning at the Casa Tejas Apartments.

No cause has been determined. The fire was brought under control by about 3 a.m. Friday.

Feds announced $1.2M for new Sun Metro buses

Houston police kill man who allegedly stabbed 3

MANOR — A Central Texas school bus driver has been charged with molesting an elementary student who was seen standing in the moving vehicle.

Travis County Jail records show Gilbert Joseph Briseno was being held Friday on $200,000 bond. No attorney was listed for Briseno, who was booked Thursday on a charge of continuous sexual abuse of a child.

Manor police Sgt. Ryan Phipps says bus security video shows more than one alleged incident of the girl being abused.

EL PASO — The city’s bus system will get $1.2 million to upgrade to more fuel efficient vehicles that run on natural gas.

Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood on Friday announced the federal grant for Sun Metro in El Paso.

LaHood, says the money will help replace aging buses with new compressed natural gas vehicles.

HOUSTON — Houston police have shot and killed a man who allegedly stabbed three other guests at a party to celebrate an upcoming wedding.

Police spokesman Kese Smith said Friday that two officers opened fire when the man refused to put down a knife and then charged toward them. The suspect was dead at the scene Thursday night.

San Antonio police fatally shoot gunman at hotel SAN ANTONIO — San Antonio police have fatally shot a gunman who allegedly threatened a woman in a hotel room and then fired at officers.

Police say the incident happened early Friday at a Days Inn. — Compiled from AP reports

FRIDAY, SEPT. 21 The Sun Country Fishing Tournament begins and runs through Friday, Sept. 28, at Falcon Lake.

Zapata High School Falcons meet Nixon in Laredo at 7:30 p.m.

SATURDAY, SEPT. 22

AROUND THE NATION Judge weds couple then sentences groom

Today is the first day of the 2012 South Texas Archery Shootout, which begins at 8:30 a.m. at Zapata 3-D Archery Course. General rules are no crossbows, practice points only and scoring by peers. Pick up t-shirt and score card between 7 and 8 a.m. Fee for youth division is $50; for adults, $100.

The Bud Light 2012 San Antonio Division tournament takes place at Falcon Lake.

The 2012 South Texas Archery Shootout continues until 4 p.m. at Zapata 3-D Archery Course.

Friday, Sept 28 The Sun Country Fishing Tournament concludes.

OKLAHOMA CITY — Talk about the old ball and chain.

A judge sentenced an Oklahoma man to four years in federal prison on a firearm charge — then minutes later performed a marriage ceremony to wed the new inmate and his longtime girlfriend.

Thursday was a busy day for Larry Austin and Dustie Trojack. First they obtained their marriage license, then Austin pleaded guilty to the firearm charge and was sentenced.

Austin’s attorney, Scott M. Anderson said Austin had helped to raise Trojack’s two sons and he didn’t want to lose contact with them while he was serving time.

FRIDAY, OCT. 12

Ex-cop convicted in 1957 murder of Ill. girl, 7

The Southeast Texas Bass Federation will host a tournament through Saturday, Oct. 13.

SYCAMORE, Ill. — A 72-yearold man was convicted Friday in

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 Bill Ingalls/NASA | AP

Members of the U.S. Navy ceremonial guard hold a United States flag over the remains of Apollo 11 astronaut Neil Armstrong during a burial at sea service aboard the USS Philippine Sea on Friday on the Atlantic Ocean. Armstrong was 82. the 1957 murder of a 7-year-old girl, with spectators letting out a deafening cheer as the verdict was announced in one of the oldest unsolved crimes to eventually get to court in the U.S. Judge James Hallock pronounced Jack McCullough guilty

of murder, kidnapping and abduction in Maria Ridulph’s deat.

McCullough was around 17 years old on the snowy night in December 1957 when the secondgrader went missing in Sycamore.

— 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.

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SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2012

THE ZAPATA TIMES 3A

Ceremony to attract Officials meet widow state’s top leaders

By MIGUEL TIMOSHENKOV THE ZAPATA TIMES

By MIKAELA RODRIGUEZ THE ZAPATA TIMES

Gov. Rick Perry and Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst will travel to Laredo next Thursday for the official naming ceremony of TAMIU’s Judith Zaffirini Student Success Center.

The center boasts a onestop-shop mall design where students can apply and pay for classes, as well as receive course counseling and buy books.

Ray Keck, Texas A&M International University president, said in a news release that the naming is in gratitude toward Zaffirini for her contributions to the university as a member of the Texas Senate’s higher education committee.

“She maintains a laser focus on TAMIU and is deeply engaged in the life of our institution and our students,” Keck said.

“From helping to secure legislative funding, to helping us attract critical student scholarship support, she is front and center.”

Zaffirini secured the lieutenant governor’s support in approving appropriations for the center’s construction during the 2006 Texas legislative ses-

Photo by Michael Conroy | AP

Gov. Rick Perry, shown in this April 13 photo, and Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst will visit Laredo on Sept. 20 for a naming ceremony. sion.

Steve Harmon, TAMIU spokesman, said Perry has been similarly crucial in the university’s development.

“We’re very excited to have both the governor and lieutenant governor here,” Harmon said. “(Perry’s) been here for crucial moments in the university’s history.”

The governor’s previous visit to Laredo was in

July 2010.

John Sharp, Texas A&M University System chancellor, and members of the system’s board of regents will attend the event, too.

The ceremony will be held at 11 a.m. in the success center’s lobby. The public is invited.

(Mikaela Rodriguez may be reached at 956-7282567 or mrodriguez@lmtonline.com)

Radioactive tool missing ASSOCIATED PRESS

HOUSTON — Halliburton Co. is offering a reward for a piece of oilfield equipment containing potentially dangerous radioactive material missing somewhere in West Texas.

A search continued Friday for the small stainless

steel cylinder, about 7 inches long and an inch across.

The sealed cylinder contains radioactive Americium-241/Beryllium.

A Halliburton oilfield crew lost the item Tuesday while transporting it from Pecos to near Odessa.

According to an incident report by the U.S. Nuclear

Regulatory Commission, the FBI has interviewed the three crew members and believes “there was no criminal activity involved with the missing” cylinder.

Officials say the cylinder isn’t highly radioactive but extended close contact could result in a harmful radiation dose.

The inspector general’s office and Homeland Security began interviewing witnesses Wednesday in the Sept. 3 shooting death of a Mexican national in a riverside park in Nuevo Laredo, Mexico.

The man, Guillermo Arévalo Pedroza, 36, was allegedly shot by a U.S. Border Patrol agent who was patrolling the Rio Grande in South Laredo.

Nora Isabel Lam Gallegos, the 26-year-old widow of Arévalo Pedroza, traveled to the Consulate of Mexico in Laredo for an interview relating to her husband’s death.

She gave investigators her same version of events: federal agents on a boat shot and killed her

husband and denied that anybody threw stones “to the other side.”

She said she, her husband and her young daughters had gone to the park to celebrate a birthday.

Miguel Angel Isidro, consul general of Mexico in Laredo, told Laredo Morning Times that Lam Gallegos and other witnesses were undergoing interviews with office of inspector general agents.

“This will be a very long process,” he said.

Homeland Security Office of Inspector General has the legal authority and oversight responsibilities to investigate accusations of misconduct by federal employees, including allegations of corruption and violations of civil rights.

Rob Harris, Border Pa-

trol chief of the Laredo sector, said in an interview that he did not know the details of what happened Sept. 3 on the Rio Grande.

In a statement issued last week, Border Patrol said a marine unit had come under attack from rock throwers on the Mexican side and that an agent had fired a weapon.

In the meantime, Mexico’s Attorney General’s Office has opened an investigation into the incident based on the allegations that U.S. federal agents shot and killed Arévalo Pedroza.

(Translated by Mark Webber of the Times staff.

Staff writer Miguel Timoshenkov can be reached at (956) 728-2583, or at mramirez@lmtonline.com)

PAGE 4A

Zopinion

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2012

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

OTHER VIEWS

Wavering fuels unrest in Mideast

By JONATHAN GURWITZ EXPRESS-NEWS COLUMNIST

One of the more bizarre criticisms directed at President Barack Obama in the wake of last week’s attacks in Egypt and Libya was the accusation that he has positioned the United States on the wrong side of the revolutionary movements in the Middle East.

In Moscow, a parliamentary ally of President Vladimir Putin taunted on Twitter, “Under Qaddafi they didn’t kill diplomats.” In a rambling post on Facebook, Sarah Palin touched on the same theme, asking, “How’s that Arab Spring working out for us now?”

The intimation is that the Obama administration has recklessly sided with groups trying to throw off decades of corrupt authoritarian rule.

The assaults in Cairo, Benghazi and beyond, according to this line of thinking, are the predictable blowback from dumping allies who kept extremists in check.

No US support Aside from the fact that those allies actually tended to cultivate extremism, exactly the opposite is true. President Obama repeatedly has demonstrated a calculated willingness to allow mullahs and dictators to slaughter their own people and threaten the existence of their neighbors.

If anything, it’s the lack of U.S. support for change, not an excess of it, that has made the Middle East a much more dangerous place for moderate reformers who cherish political freedom and religious tolerance while creating a leadership vacuum that empowers fanatics.

Iran Start with Iran. The president ran for office pledging to meet unconditionally with the Islamic Republic’s leaders.

“The notion that somehow not talking to countries is punishment to them,” candidate Obama said in a Democratic debate in 2007, “is ridiculous.”

True to form, the president didn’t allow a popular revolt against an oppressive regime to close his open hand.

When the Iranian government began shooting protesters in the streets, then arresting and torturing them by the thousands in 2009, an administration official told the

Wall Street Journal, “This is a debate in Iran among Iranians. It is not about us.” When one side shouts slogans and the other side shoots bullets, most people wouldn’t call it a debate.

Libya Then there’s Libya.

British Prime Minister David Cameron and French President Nicolas Sarkozy had to cajole the leader of the free world to criticize Moammar Gadhafi, then to take action against him. But in trying to make a virtue of “leading from behind,” Obama made it easier for extremist groups like the one responsible for the attack on the consulate in Benghazi to get a foothold in Libya.

When protests began in Egypt, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said “the Egyptian government is stable and is looking for ways to respond to the legitimate needs and interests of the Egyptian people.” That was almost as big a howler as her reference to dictator Bashar Assad, two months into the Syrian uprising, as a reformer.

Assad regime Now with the death toll in Syria climbing above 20,000, a new French president is once again trying to cajole the United States into hurling something more than adverbs at Assad’s murderous regime.

Is it any wonder that some citizens of Syria, Egypt, Libya, Iran, Tunisia and Yemen might be confused about whether the United States really cares about democracy or accountable government, or that religious extremists can tap into this uncertainty to whip up an anti-American frenzy?

Anti-American sentiments No, what happened last week in Egypt and Libya wasn’t blowback. And even President Obama agrees it wasn’t justified by some cornball movie about Islam.

Anti-American zealots are always looking for an excuse to go on a rampage in the Middle East.

American leaders shouldn’t make their job any easier by making it harder for the region’s residents to discern which side the United States is on.

(Jonathan Gurwitz can be contacted at jgurwitzexpress-news.net.)

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY The Zapata Times does not publish anonymous letters.

To be published, letters must include the writer’s first and last names as well as a phone number to verify identity. The phone number IS NOT published; it is used solely to verify identity and to clarify content, if necessary.

Identity of the letter writer must be verified before publication.

We want to assure our

readers that a letter is written by the person who signs the letter. The Zapata Times does not allow the use of pseudonyms.

Letters are edited for style, grammar, length and civility. No namecalling 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.

COLUMN

Praising foreign diplomats

A

USTIN — Wednesday morning, I thought about the only other career I’ve come across that looks like it could have been as interesting and rewarding as writing about stuff has been.

I thought about it as I heard about the four tragic deaths at the U.S. Consulate in Benghazi, Libya.

During my White House correspondent years, during foreign trips, I got to know some career foreign service folks in our embassies around the world.

At the top of embassy structure are ambassadors.

Some are career foreign service officers and some are political appointees.

Chris Stevens, the ambassador killed in Libya, was career foreign service.

As with many endeavors, embassies are only as good as their career foreign service worker bees.

From Uruguay to Ulan Bataar, Mongolia, and points elsewhere, I was impressed by the bees’ dedication and knowledge. And I found myself envying them as they told me their stories about the widely varying countries in which they

“

KEN HERMAN

had served. It sounded fascinating, though not, as we were reminded this week, without peril.

These are level-headed folks who must be way above the simplistic, kneejerk, bad-idea thoughts that pop into some of our heads when bad things happen. I fear I’m not the only one who periodically entertains this nonproductive notion about the Middle East: How about if we build a fence around it, let those folks fight amongst themselves and then deal with the survivors?

Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, aware of the frustration fostered by the slayings of Americans in Libya, said the incident in a country we helped liberate “reflects just how complicated and, at times, how confounding the world can be.”

Frustratingly so, which is why I respect the foreign service folks who helped me do my job around the world. Assistance ranged from safety

tips to restaurant ideas to bringing local vendors to the press center to make it easier for us to help the local economy. I have vivid memories of how embassy personnel in Kabul, Afghanistan, had local women on hand to offer jewelry and other goods.

This week, after the attacks in Benghazi and Cairo, I dug into my garage archives to review materials provided to me by embassy personnel around the world. The packets included tips ranging from funny to frightening.

“The common American sign for ‘A-OK,’ using thumb and index finger, has a very vulgar connotation in Brazil and should be avoided.”

“Indians love to tell stories, but Indian or ethnic jokes are not common and bantering and raucous humor will not be understood.”

“Welcome to Colombia!

Bogota is rated high for both indigenous terrorism and crime on the Department of State’s Security Environment Threat List.

The threat facing Americans in Colombia is significant and practicing good security awareness is a

must.”

In New Delhi, India, a packet included this, aimed at State Department employees: “Relationships involving continuing romantic or sexual intimacy without cohabitation must be reported when the employee determines that it is in fact a continuing relationship. Employees are not required to report sporadic relationships with non-communist government/allied country nationals until such time as the employee contemplates marriage, cohabitation or a long-term relationship.”

Despite the danger (and restrictions on dating commies), foreign service looks fascinating. Because of the danger, I’m glad I didn’t think of this earlier in my life. And, also because of the danger and with this week’s tragedy in mind, I’m appreciative of our foreign service personnel, including the ones who offered me shopping tips in Mongolia and those who spend many days of their lives in harm’s way.

(Ken Herman is a columnist for the Austin American-Statesman.

Email: kherman(at)statesman.com.)

Obama’s electric car crash THE WASHINGTON POST

As a candidate for president in 2008, Barack Obama set a goal of getting 1 million all-electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles on the road by 2015.

In February 2011, the Obama administration’s Energy Department issued an analysis purporting to show that, with the help of subsidies and tax credits, “the goal is achievable.” This was a paltry claim in the first place, since 1 million cars amount to less than 1 percent of the total U.S. fleet.

Yet it is increasingly clear that, despite the commitment of many millions of taxpayer dollars, the United

States will not hit Mr. Obama’s target by 2015. A recent CBS News analysis suggested that we’ll be lucky to get a third of the way there.

The Energy Department study assumed that General Motors would produce 120,000 plug-in hybrid Volts in 2012. GM never came close to that and recently suspended Volt production at its Hamtramck, Mich., plant, scene of a presidential photo-op. So far, GM has sold a little more than 21,000 Volts, even with the help of a $7,500 tax credit, recent dealer discounting and U.S. government purchases.

The Energy Department predicted that Nissan, recipient of a $1.5 billion

government-guaranteed loan, would build 25,000 of its all-electric Leaf this year; that car has sold only 14,000 units in the United States.

No matter how you slice it, the American taxpayer has gotten precious little for the administration’s investment in battery-powered vehicles. There is no market, or not much of one, for vehicles that are less convenient and cost thousands of dollars more than similar-sized gas-powered alternatives — but do not save enough fuel to compensate. The basic theory of the Obama push for electric vehicles — if you build them, customers will come — was an expensive myth.

DOONESBURY | GARRY TRUDEAU

State

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2012

THE ZAPATA TIMES 5A

Facility would house prison visitors

By CINDY V. CULP WACO TRIBUNE-HERALD

WACO — Every weekend, volunteers at Central Texas Hospitality House in Gatesville see how crimes committed by one person can strain an entire family.

As people come to the small Coryell County town to take advantage of visiting hours at the six prison units there, the house serves as a welcoming outpost for inmates’ loved ones. Most are drained, both in spirit and in cash.

Volunteers do what they can to help — giving them snacks, providing clothes that meet the prison dress code or just listening without judgment.

But one thing volunteers haven’t been able to offer is a place for visitors to stay overnight. As a result, countless people who can’t afford a hotel room sleep in their cars in store park-

ing lots or camp out at parks.

Cases of aging grandparents traveling with young children are particularly heart-wrenching, they said.

A fundraising campaign launched by the house last week aims to fill that gap.

The group hopes to raise $850,000 to build a new center with 19 private bedrooms and other facilities needed to host visitors overnight.

“We have people coming from all over the state, all over the nation,” said Charles Wise, director of development for the house.

“Most have the same core values as us. But they’re thrown into an unempowered situation because of (a loved one’s) stupid choices or criminal activity. They are victims, too.”

More than 8,200 inmates are housed in Gatesville, including women on death row. They receive about 80,000 visitors per

year, according to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

Those statistics alone show the need for a ministry like the hospitality house, Wise said.

But its vision also is to serve people visiting prisons in nearby areas — namely Marlin, Burnet and San Saba.

The group knows the capital campaign will be a challenge, especially since some people bristle at the idea of even indirectly helping prisoners. But part of the strategy is to emphasize to churches — the most likely contributors — that the house’s services are in line with biblical teachings, Wise said.

Verses from Matthew Chapter 25 serve as a motto for the group.

“For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in,” the passage reads. “I needed clothes and

Photo by Jerry Larson/Waco Tribune Herald | AP

Texas Department of Criminal Justice chaplain Wallace Nelson looks over the children’s room of the current Central Texas Hospitality House in Gatesville on Sept. 6. you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me. . . .

The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’”

The group also is motivated by

growing research that shows the positive ripple effects of prison visitation.

Not only are inmates more likely to stay out of trouble after their release, but their children are less likely to be locked up later in life.

National

6A THE ZAPATA TIMES

Negotiators work to end Chicago strike

By DON BABWIN & TAMMY WEBBER ASSOCIATED PRESS

CHICAGO — The city’s nearly weeklong teachers strike appeared headed toward a resolution Friday after negotiators emerged from marathon talks to say they had achieved a “framework” that could end the walkout in time for students to return to class Monday.

Both sides were careful not to describe the deal as a final agreement. They expected to spend the weekend working out details before delegates are asked to vote on the package, probably sometime Sunday.

Chicago School Board President David Vitale said the “heavy lifting” was over after long hours of talks placed “frameworks around all the major issues.”

The school district and union negotiators “put things on the table over the last few days to help each other” and to put schools on track to reopen next week, Vitale said.

“Our kids are going to get the time they need in this school year, and they’re going to get the time they need in the school day,” he said. “And our teachers are going to get the respect they deserve for their hard work with our kids.”

Robert Bloch, an attorney for the Chicago Teachers Union, said union leaders updated delegates on the progress at a meeting Friday afternoon.

“It’s been a very difficult agreement,” Bloch said. “This has been one of the most difficult labor contracts negotiated in dec-

Photo by Charles Rex Arbogast | AP

Karen Lewis, president of the Chicago teachers union, left, and vice president Jesse Sharkey stand before a meeting of the union’s House of Delegates on Friday in Chicago. ades. Many of the core issues of the contract have been worked out, but not all of them.”

About 15 minutes after union President Karen Lewis entered the delegate meeting, delegates could be seen through the windows cheering and applauding.

Journalists were not allowed inside, and there was no way to know what they were applauding.

Later, Lewis reiterated that there is no contract yet and that the strike is still in effect. But she said she also hopes to see students in class Monday.

Anger spurs prophet film

By MICHAEL R. BLOOD ASSOCIATED PRESS

DUARTE, Calif. — The shared belief that radical Islam threatens the world brought together an ex-convict, an insurance salesman and a Christian charity in production of a crudely crafted film that ridicules Muslims and the prophet Muhammad and has incited violent protests across the Middle East.

Media for Christ, a nonprofit that raised more than $1 million last year “to glow Jesus’ light” to the world, was listed as the

production company for the film. Steve Klein, a California insurance salesman and Vietnam War veteran who has spent years protesting at mosques and espousing hatred of radical Muslims, acted as the film’s promoter.

And Nakoula Basseley Nakoula, who authorities say has used multiple names and was convicted of bank fraud, says he managed logistics for the film.

Federal authorities have identified Nakoula as the key figure behind the film.

A federal law enforcement official told The Asso-

ciated Press on Thursday that authorities had connected Nakoula to a man using the pseudonym of Sam Bacile.

Most of “Innocence of Muslims” was shot in about two weeks inside a squat warehouse that serves as the offices of Media for Christ, according to Eric Moers, who served as chief electrician for the production.

The clumsily produced film, which looks like a spoof, alternately portrays Muhammad as a fraud, a womanizer and a child molester.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2012

Zfrontera

SÁBADO 15 DE SEPTIEMBRE DE 2012

PÁGINA 7A

BORDER REGION BEHAVIORAL HEALTH CENTER

UNITED WAY 2012

Disciplina POR JJ VELASQUEZ TIEMPO DE ZAPATA

El centro de salud mental regional entregará documentos a la oficina del inspector general como evidencia en casos que involucran uso inapropiado de tarjetas de Sam’s Club y sobre el director de recursos humanos del centro, de quien se supo que utilizó su cuenta para renta de carro para uso personal, el año pasado.

El Consejo de Administración del Border Region Behavioral Health Center (Centro Fronterizo Regional de Salud del Comportamiento) autorizaron el miércoles que el consejero legal del centro provea los documentos a la oficina del inspector general.

Igualmente, fideicomisarios autorizaron al director ejecutivo Daniel Castillón disciplinar a cinco empleados quienes utilizaron de forma inapropiada las tarjetas de Sam’s Club del centro.

Su acción surge después de varios meses que suspendieron a oficiales de primer rango en el centro por su supuesta participación en el uso inadecuado de la cuenta para renta de auto. Castillón, María Alonso

Agenda en Breve LAREDO 09|15— Shrine Circus se presenta a las 2 p.m. y 8 p.m. en Laredo Energy Arena. La fiesta previa al show es una hora antes de todos los espectáculos. Más información en www.learena.com.

09|16— Cuarto Circuito Internacional de Ciclismo inicia a las 7 a.m. en Sierra Vista Boulevard, para utilizar Cuatro Vientos. Premios serán de más de 2.000 dólares. Cuota de registro: 35 dólares. Visite www.cityoflaredobikerace.com o llame al (956) 235-4861 para más información.

09|16— Shrine Circus se presenta a las 2 p.m. y 7 p.m. en Laredo Energy Arena. La fiesta previa al show es una hora antes de todos los espectáculos. Más información en www.learena.com.

09|18— Mark Alexander será el Artista Invitado de Recital en Center for the Fine and Performing Arts Recital Hall de TAMIU, a las 7:30 p.m. Evento gratuito.

09|20— “Series Clásicas de Otoño” en Cinemark presenta “The Bridge on the River Kwai” a las 2 p.m. y 7 p.m. en Cinemark Mall Del Norte.

09|20— El equipo Dustdevil de soccer femenil de TAMIU recibe a Newman University en la cancha universitaria a las 2:30 p.m.

09|20— Concierto Fantasía del pianista Carlos Abraham, a las 7:30 p.m. en el Guadalupe and Lilia Martinez Fine Arts Center del Laredo Community College, Campus Fort McIntosh. Costo: 5 dólares (estudiantes con ID); 10 dólares (público en general); 25 dólares (VIP incluyendo recepción al final del evento).

09|20— El equipo Dustdevil de soccer varonil de TAMIU recibe a Newman University en la cancha universitaria a las 7:30 p.m.

09|20— Renán Moreno se presenta en la obra teatral cómica “Acá, Las Gorditas” a las 8:30 p.m. en Laredo Civic Center, 2400 avenida San Bernardo.

09|21— Primer Auto Show Anual Internacional, de 3 p.m. a 8 p.m. en UniTrade Stadium, 6320 Sinatra Parkway. Entrada gratuita. Evento continúa el 22 de septiembre, de 10 a.m. a 4 p.m.

09|21— Baloncesto: Toros vs Hal. Rojos en Laredo Energy Arena a las 7:30 p.m. Más información en (956) 717-TORO. 09|22— La Exposición de Coleccionistas del Sur de Texas se llevará a cabo en Laredo Civic Center, hoy y el 23 de septiembre, de de 10 a.m. a 5 p.m., donde habrá más de 100 vendedores participando. Costo: 5 dólares por día; 8 dólares, por ambos días.

Sánchez, directora de recursos humanos del centro, y Rolando Gutiérrez, jefe oficial de financiamiento, fueron suspendidos en la primavera durante 10 días sin goce de sueldo, en relación al incidente, el cual involucraba a Sánchez utilizando la cuenta en tres ocasiones para rentar un vehículo para su hija, el año pasado.

Fideicomisarios del centro tomaron acción el miércoles para evitar tales incidentes en primer lugar. Los miembros del consejo autorizaron a Castillón tomar medidas con los procedimientos y políticas sobre el gasto discrecional en el centro.

Cruz dijo que medidas disciplinarias incluyen la posibilidad de reprimendas, suspensiones o despidos.

Castillón dijo que consultará con Cruz para determinar qué acción tomar.

Los cinco empleados, cuyos puestos van desde secretario hasta administrativo, utilizaron cinco tarjetas individuales para obtener acceso a Sam’s Club. Ellos compraron artículos personales tales como productos de higiene, comida para perro y carne, dijo Cruz.

Basado en las conclusiones de la investigación, el inspector general pudiera buscar acciones criminales o civiles, dijo Cruz.

Foto por Cuate Santos | The Zapata Times

El Presidente del Consejo de Administración y CEO de IBC-Zapata, Renato Ramírez, al centro, recibe una pintura elaborada por el artista Armando Hinojosa, en el salón del Laredo Civic Center. Realiza la presentación Mary Treviño, anterior presidenta de United Way, y el presidente de la campaña de este año, Romeo Rodríguez Jr.

PATRULLA FRONTERIZA

TAMAULIPAS

MAGIA Y ESPÍRITU

EU cancela vuelos a México POR ELLIOT SPAGAT ASSOCIATED PRESS

Foto de cortesía | Fototeca del Archivo General e Histórico del Estado

SUPERIOR: Imagen que forma parte de la colección sobre Guerrero Viejo, México, en la Fototeca del Archivo General e Histórico del Estado. IZQUIERDA: Presidencia Municipal de Guerrero Viejo en 1864. DERECHA: Puente José Bernardo Gutiérrez de Lara y Uribe en Guerrero Viejo, México.

Está Guerrero Viejo lleno de historia Nota del Editor: Esta es la prime- Luego de sobrevivir a ciclones, ra de dos parte de un artículo acer- guerras, sequías, avenidas fluca de Guerrero Viejo. viales, ataques de comanches y otras vicisitudes; Revilla recibió POR FRANCISCO RAMOS AGUIRRE el nombre de Guerrero, en honor a uno de los próceres de la ESPECIAL PARA TIEMPO DE ZAPATA independencia de México.

Sin que estuviera escrito, el Cuna de Bernardo, Antonio, destino de las poblaciones de Lázaro Gutiérrez de Lara y AlGuerrero y Padilla, Tamaulipas, fredo Saldaña Garza, protagonisera morir sumergidas en el tas de los movimientos de Indeagua. Así lo atestiguan las pre- pendencia y Revolución en Mésas, construidas en las décadas xico; durante el porfiriato de los cincuenta y setenta del si- Guerrero se convirtió en una de glo pasado. Sin embargo, ahora las poblaciones emblemáticas de sabemos que gran parte de su la frontera tamaulipeca. La priarquitectura, monumentos y ca- mera de las villerías del tránsito lles, resurgieron de la humedad entre Nuevo Laredo y Matamopara negarse a morir. Poseídos ros-Bagdad. Enfrente de la plapor un espíritu de nostalgia, sus za, se localizaba el Hotel Flores, antiguos habitantes no se resig- de elegante arquitectura con naron al aniquilamiento de su balcones de vistosos herrajes. pasado. Entonces empezaron a En este sitio se hospedaron nunombrarlas: Guerrero Viejo y merosos políticos, empresarios, Padilla Viejo. clérigos, artistas, diplomáticos y Lugares mágicos y seducto- viajeros célebres. res, se convirtieron en polo de Sobresalía también el edificio atracción para historiadores, pa- de la presidencia municipal, con seantes y turismo cinegético un majestuoso reloj francés, emproveniente de Estados Unidos. potrado en lo más alto de la faEl caso de Guerrero, es de carac- chada estilo inglés. El parián o terísticas excepcionales. A más mercado, era el lugar preferido de 250 años de la fundación de la donde las amas de casa acudían Villa de Revilla —como se llamó a comprar los alimentos básicos originalmente—; sus edificios de la dieta de las familias fronteen ruinas, conservan el señorío rizas. Cuentan los cronistas que propio de las poblaciones funda- ahí se comercializaban los mejodas por José de Escandón, al res cortes de carne de bovinos margen del Río Bravo o Grande, de buena raza. Este producto, como lo conocían los norteame- iba a parar directamente a los ricanos. asadores y después consumida El trazo de sus calles, plazas, en fiestas y reuniones familiamercado, cementerio y lugares res. de convivencia, nos habla de un Existió una aduana frontericoncepto de modernidad urba- za, administrada en 1903 por Rana, propia de aquella época. món G. Izaguirre acusado por

permitir los juegos de azar en esa dependencia.

En el centro de la ciudad destacaba la iglesia de Nuestra Señora del Refugio. Varias cuadras adelante, se levantaron un poderoso puente de piedra que primero llevó el nombre del general Servando Canales. A mediados del siglo XX, este acceso terminó por llamarse Bernardo Gutiérrez de Lara.

La escuela primaria José María González Benavides, autorizada en 1897 por el benefactor y filántropo que lleva su nombre, formó parte importante del patrimonio histórico y arquitectónico de los guerrerenses. A mediados del siglo XIX, llegó a contar con cerca de 15.000 habitantes; además operaba un rastro y dos cementerios con esculturas funerarias de mármol de Carrara, para honrar la memoria de los fundadores de Revilla. Por cierto, en esa época, sobre las lapidas se labraban versos, a manera de epígrafe.

Igual es famoso el corrido Los Tequileros grabado por Los Alegres de Terán, donde se narran las aventuras de tres famosos contrabandistas de tequila, anisado y mezcal. A lomo de caballo y mula trasladaban el producto hacia los Estados Unidos, durante la época de la prohibición del alcohol en aquel país.

Es decir, a finales de los años veinte y principios de los treinta, del siglo pasado.

(Artículo publicado con autorización de la revista En Público de Ciudad Victoria. Visite http:// www.enpublico.mx)

TUCSON, Ariz. — Estados Unidos suspendió los vuelos de devolución a México de personas detenidas tras ingresar a territorio estadounidense sin autorización legal, una medida que pone fin a un experimento de siete años que le costó casi 100 millones de dólares a los contribuyentes.

Más de 125.000 personas fueron enviadas gratuitamente por avión de regreso a México desde 2004.

La Patrulla Fronteriza lo elogió como una manera de desalentar a los migrantes a volver a intentar el cruce, y parece haberlo logrado con muchos, al menos por un tiempo corto.

Sin embargo, con los arrestos de la Patrulla en sus niveles más bajos en 40 años y nuevas pruebas que indican que más personas están dirigiéndose al sur de la frontera común que al norte, las autoridades tuvieron problemas para llenar los vuelos y encontraron cada vez más difícil justificar los costos. Los vuelos, que llevaban un máximo de 146 pasajeros, fueron reducidos de una frecuencia de dos diarios el año pasado a uno solo.

Este verano boreal no hubo ninguno.

“Todo se reduce a dólares y centavos”, dijo George Allen, subjefe del sector de la Patrulla Fronteriza en Tucson. “Estamos topándonos con una sociedad más preocupada por presupuestos, especialmente con el gobierno”.

En un esfuerzo para mantener activos los vuelos, las autoridades estadounidenses propusieron incluir a mexicanos que cometieron delitos cuando vivían en Estados Unidos. El gobierno mexicano rechazó la idea.

Los vuelos podrían reanudarse, pero no este año, dijeron funcionarios de ambos países.

La Secretaría de Relaciones Exteriores de México se negó a opinar al respecto el lunes.

Los traslados aéreos sólo han funcionado en el verano boreal y únicamente en Arizona.

Los vuelos del Programa de Repatriación al Interior Mexicano transportaron a 125.164 pasajeros, a un costo de 90,6 millones de dólares, desde 2004, o un costo promedio de 724 dólares cada uno, de acuerdo con el Servicio de Inmigración y Aduanas de Estados Unidos.

Los vuelos operaron desde tan sólo 38 días en 2009 hasta 120 días en 2010, cuando llevaron un récord de 23.384 pasajeros. El año pasado, movieron a 8.893 pasajeros a un costo de 5 millones de dólares: un promedio de 562 dólares por persona.

Además, se convirtieron en una pieza clave para la Patrulla Fronteriza en Arizona a medida que la agencia ponía fin a su vieja política de llevar a los inmigrantes a la frontera más cercana, desde donde intentaban volver a cruzar unas horas más tarde.

Los vuelos de un solo trayecto hacia Ciudad de México estaban dirigidos a las personas y familias que intentaban ingresar sin autorización por primera vez.

National

8A THE ZAPATA TIMES

Armstrong laid to rest THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

WASHINGTON — The first man to walk on the moon has been buried at sea.

NASA says Neil Armstrong’s cremated remains were buried in the Atlantic Ocean on Friday during a

ceremony aboard the USS Philippine Sea. Armstrong was a Navy fighter pilot before joining the space program. He died last month in Ohio at age 82. His burial follows a memorial service in Washington on Thursday.

NASA photographs show

Armstrong’s widow, Carol Armstrong, accepting a folded American flag during the ceremony, which NASA said included a bugler and a rifle salute.

The space agency didn’t give the location of the ceremony. The ship’s homeport is Mayport, Fla.

Photo by Gerald Herbert | AP

People walk on the street past a strip club on Bourbon Street in the French Quarter section of New Orleans on Thursday.

Law angers street preachers

By JANET MCCONNAUGHEY ASSOCIATED PRESS

NEW ORLEANS — Bare breasts, drunken revelry and almost anything else is tolerated along Bourbon Street, but after dark, the city is saying street preachers are forbidden.

Two weeks ago, a small group of street preachers were arrested during a gay pride festival, perhaps the first people to be booked under a nearly year-old ordinance against aggressive solicitation on Bourbon Street. Those who crafted the law say it’s a public safety measure to help with crowd control and discourage con artists, but the street preachers believe it’s a violation of their First Amendment rights.

Specifically, the law bans loitering on Bourbon to spread “any social, political or religious message between the hours of sunset and sunrise.”

“Have you ever been on Bourbon Street? There on Bourbon Street, you have nude pictures trying to entice people in. That would be my definition of aggressive solicitation,” said street preacher Ruben Israel, a familiar sight on Bourbon during Mardi Gras and the gay Southern Decadence festival held over Labor Day. So far, the city is standing by the ordinance, which applies only to Bourbon Street — not the entire French Quarter.

“You can literally take one step off of Bourbon Street, and you can do

what you do,” said City Councilwoman Kristin Gisleson, who authored the October 2011 ordinance.

She said it was created in part to make sure people keep moving along the crowded, raunchy strip.

John Hill, chairman of a gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered rights group, said the preachers at Southern Decadence were a nuisance, but they have a right to free speech.

“My gosh, it’s certainly a waste of their time. But they certainly have a right to say it,” said Hill.

Not all gays agreed, though. Joe Traigle, who described himself as an equality activist, said those motivated by hate or raising money need to have boundaries.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2012

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2012

THE ZAPATA TIMES 9A

FREDERICK CRAIG NYMAN Frederick Craig Nyman passed away from an automobile accident in Boerne, Texas, on Sunday, Aug. 26, 2012. He was born in South Haven, Mich., on April 10, 1952, to Fred and Pearle (Pat) Nyman.

The family moved to Midland in 1953, where Fred attended the Midland public schools, graduating from Midland High School in 1970. Fred was a member of the Chippewa Chapter of Demolay. He moved to Zapata, Texas, where he has resided since 1981.

He enjoyed the outdoors and was an avid hunter and fisherman. He and his wife, Pauline Garvin, spent the past 20 years traveling across the United States, camping at the national and state parks. During the past couple of years they enjoyed being campground hosts in the Upper Peninsula’s Soldier Lake National Forest. Fred loved photography, taking pictures of all the places they had traveled to. His wife, Pauline, predeceased him last summer after being diagnosed with cancer.

Fred is survived by his daughter, Jessica Gayle Free; his sisters, Linda Nyman of Midland, Mich., Patsy (Stan) Gorgacz of Interlo-

By DON THOMPSON ASSOCIATED PRESS

chen, Mich., Paula (Mike) Macko of Shorewood, Ill., and Pam (Doug) Zimmerman of Dewitt, Mich; and his nieces and nephews, Scott (Carrie) Gorgacz, Sharon (Ani) Shakya, Carolyn (David) Rohrer, Christine Shelby, Sean Macko, Alicia (Joe) Peckham, Fred (Amber) Peña, Juan (Diane) Peña and Joshua and Alex Whitney; along with many great-nieces and nephews; and his many friends from his travels across the U.S. and those in Zapata, including special friends John (Diane) Bradley. He was also predeceased by his mother and father.

Fred was cremated in Texas, and the family is planning a memorial service next summer in the Upper Peninsula for both him and his wife.

BUSINESS CALENDAR Monday, Sept. 17 The Laredo Chamber of Commerce will host a ribbon cutting at 11 a.m. at Primerica, 602 E. Calton Road, Suite 8.

The Gateway Rotary Club meets at noon at Embassy Suites.

Tuesday, Sept. 18 The Seven Flags Rotary Club meets at 6:30 p.m. at Embassy Suites.

Wednesday, Sept. 19 “The Anatomy of a Business Plan Workshop” is set for 9 a.m. until noon at TAMIU. Classroom location will be provided with registration confirmation. Fee is $20.

The Laredo Rotary Club meets at noon at the Holiday Inn Civic Center.

The Next Generation Rotary Club meets at 7 p.m. at Hal’s Landing.

Friday, Sept. 21 The Daybreak Rotary Club meets at 7:30 a.m. at Embassy Suites.

“Internet Marketing Workshop” is set for 9 a.m. until noon at TAMIU. Classroom location will be provided with registration confirmation.

Monday, Sept. 24 The Gateway Rotary Club meets at noon at Embassy Suites.

Seven charged in $17M fraud

Tuesday, Sept. 25 “Managing Cash — the Small Business Owner’s Guide to Financial Control Workshop” is set for 9 a.m. until noon at TAMIU. Classroom location will be provided with registration confirmation.

Fee is $20.

Wednesday, Sept. 26 The Laredo Rotary Club meets at noon at the Holiday Inn Civic Center.

The Next Generation Rotary Club meets at 7 p.m. at Hal’s Landing.

Thursday, Sept. 27 “The Employment Lifecycle Workshop” is set for 10 a.m. though 1 p.m. at TAMIU. Classroom location will be provided with registration confirmation.

Laredo Chamber of Commerce board chairman Wilfredo Martinez Jr. officially will hand over the reigns of the organization to his successor, Joe Palacios Jr., at the chamber’s annual awards ceremony, set for 11:30 a.m. at the Laredo Country Club ballroom.

Friday, Sept. 28 The Daybreak Rotary Club meets at 7:30 a.m. at Embassy Suites.

To be included on the business calendar, please send the name of the event, its time and place and a way to get in touch with officials to editorial@lmtonline.org.

SACRAMENTO — A federal indictment unsealed Friday charged seven people with running a multistate Ponzi scheme and related mortgage fraud scams that prosecutors said cost investors and lenders a combined $17 million.

The years-long investigation resulted in the arrest of 55-year-old Lawrence Leland Loomis. He and his father-in-law, John Hagener, 76, were charged with operating a fraudulent California-based investment fund that cost more than 100 investors more than $7 million.

Both men are from Granite Bay, a wealthy Sacramento suburb.

They pleaded not guilty Friday in federal court in Sacramento.

Loomis was ordered held, while Hagener was freed on $1 million bond.

Loomis and five other defendants are also charged in a 50-count indictment with costing lenders $10 million in losses through two mortgage fraud schemes.

Prosecutors said all three frauds were operated through Loomis Wealth Solutions, which was based in California and also worked with investors in Illinois, Washington and elsewhere from 2006 through 2008.

“We are bringing to justice some of those who are responsible for the mortgage crisis in this district and elsewhere,” U.S. Attorney Benjamin Wagner said in a statement announcing the indictments.

Hagener’s attorney, William Portanova, said the investigation was

“

We are bringing to justice some of those who are responsible for the mortgage crisis in this district and elsewhere.”

U.S. ATTORNEY BENJAMIN WAGNER

under way for at least four years before his client was charged.

“We’re looking forward to a resolution of this matter. It’s been a long investigation and we’re all ready to move forward,” Portanova said. “Large-scale, long-term white collar investigations are by their nature measured by calendars, not stopwatches.”

Assistant federal defender Douglas Beevers declined comment on behalf of Loomis. The other defendants did not appear in court Friday, and it was not immediately clear if they had retained attorneys.

Loomis and Hagener were charged with bilking investors through a program called Naras Funds in 2007 and 2008. The indictment said Loomis encouraged investors to tap their home equity and retirement accounts to buy shares in the funds and to help purchase residential real estate.

He called the investments “simply the best financial plan ever created,” according to prosecutors.

He and his father-in-law allegedly promised 12 percent annual returns and said the funds were guaranteed, but the indictment

claims the men used investors’ money to pay themselves, their companies’ operating expenses, and to prop up the scheme by paying later investors with money from earlier victims.

Loomis and a real estate appraiser, Darren Fehst, 44, of Halifax, Nova Scotia, are also charged in connection with a mortgage fraud scheme in which Loomis is accused of paying Fehst thousands of dollars to overstate appraisals so properties could be sold for inflated prices.

Loomis and four others also are charged with buying about 200 properties in Arizona, California, Florida and elsewhere while falsifying the sales prices and costing lenders about $10 million.

The others are Michael Llamas, 27, of Tracy; Peter Woodard, 54, of Ventura; Joseph A. Gekko, 43, of Yorba Linda; and Dawn C. Powers, 42, of Lincoln.

All are charged with mail and wire fraud. Each fraud charge carries a maximum possible sentence of 20 years in federal prison.

All seven defendants were ordered to appear in court on Oct. 10.

AA pilots angry over terms

By DAVID KOENIG ASSOCIATED PRESS

DALLAS — American Airlines says it still wants to work out a new contract with its pilots, but the union’s president says a deal is less likely now that American has imposed its own terms covering pay and work rules.

“The pilots are mad,” said Keith Wilson, acting president of the Allied Pilots Association. “This corporation is not treating any of the employee groups with the respect they deserve.”

American, which has been under bankruptcy protection since November, warned pilots that it would impose its own terms if pilots rejected the company’s final contract offer, which they did last month.

New working agreement Wednesday night, the company detailed new working terms for pilots. They include more power for American to make revenue-sharing deals with other airlines and shift more flying to smaller, regional carriers — both steps that could reduce pilot jobs at American. The company will also freeze one of the pilots’ pension plans and terminate another in November.

Pilots will work under those terms until the company and union agree on a negotiated con-

tract to replace the one thrown out by a federal bankruptcy judge.

Creditors of American parent AMR Corp. say they still want the Fort Worth, Texas, company to negotiate a new contract with pilots, and so does American, but there have been no negotiations for several weeks.

Wilson, who became acting president of the pilots’ union after his predecessor was forced out last month, said in an interview that the path to a deal is now “steeper and higher.” He said pilots will be less likely to accept concessions.

However, American had no choice but to set terms for pilots after the union voted down the company’s last offer, said Ray Neidl, a longtime airline-industry analyst with Maxim Group LLC.

Spending cuts The company needs to cut its spending on pilots in order to move ahead with its bankruptcy restructuring, Neidl said. American expects to save about $1 billion in annual labor spending, including about $300 million on pilots. He also suggested that, despite what Wilson says, throwing out the pilots’ contract could make it easier to negotiate a new one.

“Even though it does further stretch a tough relationship between management and labor, it does give labor an incentive to ne-

gotiate to get rid of some of the items that they don’t like,” Neidl said.

It’s unclear what’s next for pilots. Changes in the pension plans, combined with the high number of pilots nearing 65, could lead to more retirements. The union will continue to talk up a possible merger with US Airways, which has promised less-drastic contract cuts. And pilots are likely to carry out protests like the picketing that took place on Labor Day at the Miami airport.

Possible strike Pilots are voting through Oct. 3 whether to authorize a strike.

However, that’s mostly a symbolic vote because it lacks the approval of federal officials for a legal strike — it will meet with those officials, the National Mediation Board, next week. Wilson has said pilots won’t conduct an illegal strike.

Eight other groups represented by the Association of Professional Flight Attendants and the Transport Workers Union ratified longterm contracts with American that include cost-cutting measures but also payments for workers who quit. As a result, the number of layoffs will be “substantially less” than the roughly 13,000 originally estimated, said Denise Lynn, AMR’s senior vice president for people.

10A THE ZAPATA TIMES

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2012

EVIDENCE Continued from Page 1A such incidents in the first place.

Board members authorized Castillon to come up with procedures and policies on discretionary spending at the center.

Castillon and the center’s attorney Juan Cruz both said, however, that upon review of the Sam’s Club transactions, the employees were using the cards only to gain access and not to avoid paying sales tax.

The center is a tax-exempt and government-funded organization.

“They have paid for the personal items out of their own funds,” Cruz said.

“But the fact remains that from the report that has been generated thus far, it does appear that they purchased personal items, which is not in line with the ethical standards of the center.”

Cruz said disciplinary measures include the possibility for reprimands, suspensions or terminations.

Castillon said he would consult with Cruz to determine what action to take.

The five employees, whose positions range from clerical to administrative, used five individual cards to gain access to Sam’s Club, the discount warehouse retail chain that offers wholesale prices to club members.

They bought items such as personal hygiene products, dog food and meat, Cruz said.

“In the eyes of the employees, they felt they had done nothing wrong because that was something that had apparently (been) done for years,” Castillon said.

He said the practice had

been ongoing for about 15 years at the center, which precedes Castillon’s time as executive director.

In statements earlier this year to the center’s trustees, Sanchez said she used the car rental account with permission from her superiors and was unaware of any law or center policy prohibiting such use.

Sanchez said that with the chief financial officer’s approval, she used the center’s car rental account to provide her daughter with a reliable vehicle for trips to Harlingen and San Antonio for a job interview and to take exams that license one to practice law.

Those instances were first reported to the center’s auditor by an anonymous complainant.

The complaint was then turned over to the board.

But a second case, in which Sanchez used the account to attend a conference in November and then continued using the rental for two days after, was reported to the inspector general’s office and is yet under investigation.

Cruz said she paid all charges and taxes associated with the car rental expenses.

Based on the investigation’s conclusions, the inspector general may pursue criminal or civil actions, Cruz said.

But he said the inspector general’s office, in verbal communications, has indicated there is likely no criminal element to the matter.

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

ZAPATANS Continued from Page 1A spiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine.

Court records state Mendez — known as “Kike,” “Jaiba” or “El Patron” — was additionally charged with several counts of money laundering. He faces a count of obstruction by threats of force after Mendez held a man against his will and made threats of violence against the man’s family, court records allege.

A detention hearing has been set at 10 a.m. Sept. 18 in Courtroom 2B before Magistrate Judge Diana

Song Quiroga. All men remain in federal custody.

Court records stated it was part of the conspiracy to recruit for the success of the organization. The recruits assisted in packaging, delivering and conducting surveillance for the drug shipment to make it to its destination. The organization used tractor-trailers and hid the cocaine amongst legitimate cargo to later transport the narcotics from Texas to Georgia, according to the indictment.

Mendez, along with other un-

named defendants, was also charged with laundering more than $3 million. Drug proceeds paid for transportation costs, warehouses for storage, labor and cell phones. Drug money would also go from Laredo into Mexico, according to court documents.

A notice of intent to forfeit approximately $41.9 million in illegal proceeds from all of the defendants is included in the indictment.

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

BODIES Continued from Page 1A were found in a traffic lane on the bridge, and four on both sides of the boulevard, according to a press release issued by the attorney general’s office.

“All (had) bullet wounds from gunshots to the head,” the press release stated.

A federal source speaking anonymously said a “manta,” or message, was left with the bodies.

Authorities did not disclose the message’s contents.

An official with the Public Ministry said the nine bodies, all male, were between 25 and 50 years old, except for one, 16.

Late Friday none had been identified.

According to an investigation, the nine victims were at a club called Table Dance, on Guatemala, between Leandro Valle and Jesus Carranza,

“A squad of gunmen did not allow them to extinguish the fire ... It wasn’t until the gunmen left with the victims that the firefighters were able to work (extinguishing the fire).” when a fire broke out.

While firefighters responded to the blaze, gun-wielding men kept them from fighting it.

“A squad of gunmen did not allow them to extinguish the fire,” the federal source said.

“It wasn’t until the gunmen left with the victims that the firefighters were able to work (extinguishing the fire).”

Nuevo Laredo Fire Department officials did not respond to media requests for comment.

Deaths from violent acts have now risen to 63 over the past eight

days in Nuevo Laredo.

On Wednesday, the U.S. Consulate in Nuevo Laredo warned Americans about an increase in violence, related to what they call “Transnational Criminal Organizations,” or TCOs, “in and around Nuevo Laredo,” urging those with no business in the city not to travel there.

In the warning, the embassy said there has been an increase in arson involving houses, as well as more

attacks and killings.”

The embassy said Los Zetas were competing with other cartels for control of Nuevo Laredo.

(Translated by Mark Webber of the Times staff.)

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2012

ON THE WEB: THEZAPATATIMES.COM

Sports&Outdoors HIGH SCHOOL CROSS COUNTRY

“

CLARA SANDOVAL VAL

Spreading their wings

Pink is in the air for October

O

Photo by Clara Sandoval | The Zapata Times

The Zapata boys’ cross country team, from left, Romeo Morales (1968), Heriberto Perez(1970), and Jose Garcia (1959) finished in second place as a team at the 48th Annual Fightin’ Jersey Cross Country Meet.

Zapata takes second at Fightin’ Jersey Meet

By CLARA SANDOVAL THE ZAPATA TIMES

The Hawks were back in action at the 48th Annual Fightin’ Jersey Cross Country Meet after taking a week off from competition as part of their training regiment.

Zapata ran against some great competition and ran away with second place at the meet, coming behind rival Progreso in the big-school division that included many 4A and 5A schools. Third place went to Edinburg North.

“The team went from getting down

from the bus to the starting line without any warming up or time to stretch due to a change in the order of running,” Zapata coach Roel Ibañez said. “That did not prevent the Hawks from competing and ending up in second place as a team despite competing in the big school division 5A and 4A. “We did get to see regional rival Progreso and got to see where we stand and how much work will still need in order to make a trip to state.”

Luis Garza placed second overall followed by Jose Garcia who came in third.

Rounding out the team are Carlos Rodriguez (13th place), Sammy Camacho (17th), Romeo Perez (18th), Heriberto Perez (21st) and Luis Lerma (33rd).

Junior varsity results The JV team did not stray too far from its varsity counterpart as the Hawks came in second overall behind Laredo Martin and in front of Edinburg Vela.

HIGH SCHOOL CROSS COUNTRY

ctober is just around the corner and it marks Breast Cancer Awareness month across the world.

It is a time to honor those individuals who are currently fighting against this deadly disease, those who are in remission and those who have lost their battle.

Pink has become the colors for Breast Cancer Awareness and the Laredo Morning Times, our sister newspaper, is launching a pink edition for the first Sunday in October.

Last year, the Sunday edition was all pink and LMT charged an extra dollar for each paper with the proceeds going to charities that help women in their fight against breast cancer.

Mercy Ministries and WINGS were two of the organizations that benefited immensely from all those people who bought the newspaper that day.

This year, LMT is set to print its second Pink Edition on Sept.

30, one day before the start of Breast Cancer Awareness month to coincide with the first day of October. LMT is putting a list of breast cancer survivors that will come out in the paper.

I would like to do the same for Zapata and want to compile a list of all the Zapata residents.

If anyone from Zapata would like to be included after battling this disease, please email me as soon as possible at Sandoval.Clara@Gmail.com to make sure that you are included in the list.

I encourage everyone to wear pink and even challenge Zapata High School to allow the student body to set one day aside and allow students to wear pink

See BOYS PAGE 2B See SANDOVAL PAGE 2B

BOXING

Chavez faces Martinez today

By TIM DAHLBERG ASSOCIATED PRESS

Courtesy photo

The Zapata Lady Hawks cross country team registered a perfect score of 15 points at the 48th Annual Fightin’ Jersey Cross Country Meet on Sept. 8.

Zapata scores perfectly at Fightin’ Jersey Meet

By CLARA SANDOVAL THE ZAPATA TIMES

The Zapata cross country team got back on track after taking a week off from competition, as the Lady Hawks hit the road to Falfurrias for the 48th Annual Fightin’ Jersey Cross Country Meet on Sept.

8.

Teams from across the Rio Grande Valley, the Costal Bend and Laredo descended on the Falfurrias golf course

to compete for the team titles in six different divisions.

Zapata sent a strong message to the rest of the region, capturing the individual and team titles in the varsity and junior varsity divisions.

The varsity team scored the season’s first perfect score of 15 points as the Lady Hawks captured the top five. All seven runners finished in the top 10.

See GIRLS PAGE 2B

LAS VEGAS — Just the idea of a big 160-pound fight had promoter Bob Arum reminiscing about the 1980s, when Marvelous Marvin Hagler and Thomas Hearns took on all comers and middleweights ruled the boxing world.

Saturday night’s fight between Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. and Sergio Martinez isn’t exactly HaglerHearns, but it is intriguing enough to get boxing fans excited about the middleweight division again.

Chavez defends the piece of the 160-pound title Martinez believes should still be his when they meet in a fight that seems quite personal to both. There’s a good chance the fight could turn into an old-fashioned brawl, the prospect of which was enough to sell out the 19,000-seat UNLV campus arena for the Mexican Independence Day weekend bout.

Chavez Jr. is fighting to escape from the shadow of his father, the legendary Julio Cesar Chavez, and establish himself as one of the new stars of the sport.

Martinez is trying to solidify his position as the best middleweight in the world, and dispatch a fighter he doesn’t think even deserves to be in a title fight.

At the final pre-fight news con-

Photo by James Nielsen | Houston Chronicle

Julio Cesar Chavez, Jr., right, will face Sergio Martinez in an intriguing fight to get fans excited about the middleweight division again. ference, they traded verbal shots, with Martinez about as angry about an opponent as any fighter can get.

“It will not be an easy knockout,” Martinez said. “I will punish him a lot and after that I will knock him out.”

Martinez is a 2-1 favorite in the scheduled 12-round bout, which will be for the WBC title that Martinez held before being stripped of it by the ratings organization. Chavez ended up fighting for the vacated title against Sebastian Zbik, part of the reason Martinez says he has a lot of animosity toward him.

“It is very simple. I cannot ac-

cept the fact he is world champion,” Martinez said. “The only reason he is world champion is because he is Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., the son of the legend, and his mouth is so big — even bigger than his own brain — and he’s talking too much.”

The fight is part of a big boxing night in this gambling city that also features Mexican sensation Saul “Canelo” Alvarez in a 154-pound title defense against Josesito Lopez a few blocks away at the MGM Grand hotel. The Chavez-Martinez fight will be broadcast on HBO pay-per-view

See BOXING PAGE 2B

PAGE 2B

Zscores

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2012

Photo by Dave Einsel | AP

Texas A&M’s Johnny Manziel (2) celebrates a touchdown run with Uzoma Nwachukwu (7) and Nehemiah Hicks (81) last week against Florida. Now the Aggies must take on SMU today.

Next up for Aggies: SMU defensive effort.

In a 52-0 victory over FCS team Stephen F. Austin, the Mustangs forced 10 turnovers. They had a school-record seven interceptions, returning two of the picks and a fumble for touchdowns. They also two blocked field goals, one by Mangus Hunt that was the ninth in his career for an NCAA record.

The Aggies didn’t force any turnovers, but after leading all FBS teams with 51 sacks last season, had eight against the 18thranked Gators. Damontre Moore had three of the sacks and linebacker Jonathan Stewart had a careerhigh 17 tackles.

“When we went back and watched film, obviously we were upset that we lost and that we didn’t get the win, but we saw that we did a lot of good things,” Moore said. “We were really worried about the transition from a 3-4 game to a 4-3 and I think that we handled it very well and turned a lot of heads. There were a lot of good things and there were also some mistakes but we’re working on trying to get those mistakes fixed.”

Texas A&M didn’t have a turnover in freshman quarterback Johnny Manziel’s first game, what became the season opener because of a hurricane-delayed game the week before that. But the Aggies lost 20-17 after leading 17-10 at halftime.

ASSOCIATED PRESS

Photo by Edward A. Ornelas | San Antonio Express-News

The Texas Longhorns’ Mason Walters celebrates with teammate D.J. Monroe (top) after Monroe scored a touchdown against the New Mexico Lobos during the second half on Saturday at Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin. The Longhorns won 45-0.

No. 14 UT takes on Ole Miss

By DAVID BRANDT ASSOCIATED PRESS

OXFORD, Miss. — Two victories in two games have helped soothe some of Mississippi’s embarrassment after an abysmal 2011 season.

Now No. 14 Texas is coming to town.

Ole Miss (2-0) hosts the Longhorns (2-0) on Saturday at VaughtHemingway Stadium in the first meeting between the two programs since 1966. It’s a major opportunity for the Rebels to show their program is on the right track under first-year coach Hugh Freeze.

For Texas, it’s another game to show its rebuilding days are over.

“When it comes to these games, you shouldn’t get nervous,” Ole Miss defensive back Charles Sawyer said.

“It’s just another opportunity to show people what you’re made of — show what type of player you are.

We can do that and make a good impression. This season could skyrocket.”

It won’t be easy; Ole Miss is a big underdog. The Rebels had a 2-10 record last season and the roster is still short on talent.

But the Rebels feel like they’ve got a chance thanks to a much-improved offense that’s gained more than 500

total yards in victories over Central Arkansas and UTEP. Junior quarterback Bo Wallace has received most of the credit for the fast start, completing 35 of 46 passes for 438 yards, five touchdowns and one interception. He also leads the team in rushing with 135 yards and two touchdowns.

Wallace got a look from Texas during when he was being recruited out of East Mississippi Community College last season, but never took a campus visit.

Like many of these inexperienced Rebels, this will be his first action in a marquee game. Freeze is trying to harness his team’s enthusiasm without letting it lead to distraction.

Texas is trying to continue its own mini-revival after two subpar seasons under veteran coach Mack Brown. The Longhorns beat Wyoming in their opener and dominated New Mexico last weekend 45-0, holding the Lobos to just 241 total yards.

Now they’re looking for a road win against a Southeastern Conference opponent.

Texas safety Adrian Phillips said the Longhorns don’t care about the Rebels from 2011 because this year’s team looks completely different.

“They’re a good team,” Phillips said. “I know that they’ve had some

problems in the past, but that’s every team in America. So since they’re back on their horse, they’re trying to build the thing back up. So when we go in there, we just have to make sure that we’re on our stuff.”

The most watched matchup might be the Texas defense against Wallace.

Linebacker Jordan Hicks and defensive end Jackson Jeffcoat have made big plays in the backfield during the first two games, and the Longhorns will certainly attack a young Ole Miss offensive line as they try to disrupt Wallace.

Phillips said the defense has to make sure small pass completions — which is the foundation of the new Ole Miss offense — don’t turn into big gains.

Wallace is “making plays — that’s the biggest thing,” Phillips said.

“He’s good at reading the holes and making people miss. We have to make sure we’re good at tackling and making contact.”

Texas has also had some early success on offense, led by sophomore quarterback David Ash. After an inconsistent freshman season, he’s shown considerable improvement in year two, completing 36 of 49 passes for 377 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions.

BOYS Continued from Page 1B The Hawks were led by Jerome Cabugos, who captured second place to become the only JV runner to place in the top 10.

Omar Alfaro came in 12th place while Jose Hernandez (19th), Danny Hinojosa (21st), Alex Martinez (35th) and Hector Leduc (57th) rounded out the remainder of the Hawks JV roster.

Freshmen Results Edinburg Vela’s freshmen team captured the team title, followed by Edinburg North, Laredo Martin and the Hawks.

Roberto Salinas led the freshmen with his eighth place finish and was followed by Alvaro Rodriguez (16th), Leandro Hinojosa (20th), Maycol Mendoza (26th), Jose Morales (29th), Mark Peña (34th) and Joe Alvarado (38th).

This morning, the Hawks varsity team will be competing in the UTSA Ricardo Romo Meet in San Antonio to get a sneak peek of the regional competition.

DALLAS — After losing its first game as a Southeastern Conference member, Texas A&M quickly gets to go into its past.

The Aggies are headed to SMU (1-1) for the first time in 20 years on Saturday to play their rival from the old Southwest Conference, the league they played in before spending the past 16 seasons in the Big 12. It comes a week after their SEC debut at home against Florida, a game they led at halftime before failing to score again.

“It’s really frustrating, especially for the seniors and guys who have been here for a while that played in a lot of those games and couldn’t finish them out,” senior receiver Uzoma Nwachukwu said.

“There’s a lot of frustration built up and we’ve got to make sure doesn’t happen again.”

Texas A&M has 10 wins and a tie in its last 11 meetings against SMU. The two teams have played only twice since the SWC broke up after the 1995 season, both at College Station — a 66-8 Aggies win in 2005 and last season’s 46-14 opener.

The last meeting in Dallas was a 1992 game the Aggies won 41-7.

SMU is playing the third of five consecutive games against Texas opponents to start its season, and like A&M is coming of a solid

GIRLS Continued from Page 1B Junior sensation Jazmine Garcia captured her first individual title after placing in the top 10 for the last two meets.

Garcia was 32 seconds ahead of the field when she crossed the finish line and was followed by Jannet Chapa, who captured the silver medal for the Lady Hawks.

Freshman Raquel Almaguer continues to be a solid performer, taking the bronze in her first-ever varsity race.

Senior Erica Hernandez followed closely in fourth place and Cassie Peña’s fifth-place finish rounded out the Lady Hawks top five runners to complete the sweep and perfect score.

Rounding out the Lady Hawks scoring was Joyce Garcia (seventh

place), Sara Pena (ninth), Norma Ramirez (13th), Daniela Vela (15th) and Bianca Ponce (18th).

The win was the first for the Lady Hawks, who next will travel to San Antonio to compete in the Region IV preview at the annual Ricardo Romo meet.

The girls will get to run head-tohead with at least three stateranked teams including La Vernia, Liberty Hill and Ingleside at the UTSA Meet.

“On the varsity, the work is not done,” Zapata coach Mike Villarreal said. “We enjoyed the victory, but went right back to work on Monday. There are bigger goals in sight. After this weekend, the team will have a very good idea of where we stand in this very tough re-

BOXING Continued from Page 1B at a suggested price of $49.95, while the Alvarez fight will be broadcast without an extra charge on Showtime.

Chavez, who has struggled in recent fights trying to make the 160-pound limit, was a surprisingly light 158 pounds at the official weigh-in Friday.

Martinez came in at 159 pounds.

Aside from their obvious dislike for each other, the fight between Chavez and Martinez offers some other good storylines.

Martinez is a late bloomer, a 37-yearold Argentine who in recent years has fought his way to the top of the middleweight division. He’s a lefty with a style that’s hard to counter, though his chin his questionable and he has been on the canvas in some of his fights.

Chavez is taller and figures to outweigh Martinez on fight night after struggling to make the 160-pound weight limit. He’s a big puncher who has come into his own in the last couple of years after being brought along very slowly by matchmakers who

liked his determination but weren’t sure he had the skills to become a top fighter.

Now he brings an unbeaten record of 46-0-1 into the fight and has become such an attraction to Mexican fans that the fight sold out nearly a week early.

“In the last two years he’s demonstrated to everyone he’s capable,” Arum said. “There’s a lot of big things ahead if Julio is successful in this fight. We think he’ll become one of the biggest attractions in boxing, on the level of a (Manny) Pacquiao or (Floyd) Mayweather.”

Chavez is coming off perhaps his best performance, stopping a tough Andy Lee in the seventh round June 16 to defend his title. Chavez trailed early in that fight but came on strong and dominated Lee physically before finally stopping him.

“He hadn’t had a lot of experience with southpaws and he fought that fight great,” trainer Freddie Roach

said. “After that fight we knew it was time to step up. We knew Martinez was a southpaw. We know how to fight a southpaw now and his father and I have been coming up with a game plan.”

Part of that game plan was getting Chavez to the gym, something that proved difficult as documented in the HBO “24/7” prefight series. Roach was left waiting at the gym several times, but says Chavez eventually put in enough work to get him in shape for Martinez.

“I had to wait in the gym for him a few times, but for a world champion I will wait,” Roach said.

Chavez is guaranteed $3 million for the fight, while Martinez is getting $1.4 million plus a portion of the payper-view. The payout reflects the popularity of Chavez, though Martinez wanted the fight so badly he said he is not troubled by being paid less money than his relatively unproven opponent.

gion.”

Freshmen team The freshman/bronze squad continued its winning ways with a decisive victory for the third time this season.

Freshman Alondra Lara ran away with the win, capturing the gold by almost an entire minute.

Alma Perez, Melina Juarez, Andrea Reyes, Kaloni Kafusi, Casey Hinojosa, Kayla Hinojosa and newcomer Leticia Salazar all came away with medals and helped seal the victory.

The win is the third straight for the ladies. Only two girls ran cross country last year.

SANDOVAL Continued from Page 1B in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month.

Last year, UISD in Laredo set a day aside and all students were allowed to wear pink. It was nice to see students in pink from the elementary to the high school level.

The volleyball teams in Laredo even took it a step further. During Saturday’s game, pink was the color of choice for each team including pink ribbons and socks.

Even the officials got into the act with pink whistles. It was just a great sight to see everyone participating.

Each one of the high schools sold shirts with all the proceeds going to a worthy cause, so may-

be Zapata can do the same.

Last year, the Lady Hawks wore pink ribbons and I challenge the cross country teams and the football team to wear pink for one meet or home game. It does not have to be something fancy, pink socks will do.

The Laredo LBJ football team wore pink socks throughout the month of October last year and many males had shirts that read “Real Men Wear Pink.”

Come on Zapata and rise to the challenge.

Go pink in October.

(Clara Sandoval can be reached at Sandoval.Clara@Gmail.com).

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2012

THE ZAPATA TIMES 3B

HINTS | BY HELOISE Dear Heloise: DRIVEWAY CONCRETE: How do I make it look new again?

It seems a worker parked a leaky truck on our driveway. Then he tried to clean it by power washing. Not a good result. Can you help?

— Catherine G., via email Catherine, this is a common problem, because cars, trucks, etc., do sometimes leak oil and other fluids onto driveways.

Since power washing didn’t remove the stain, it may be oil, and might need a grease-cutting cleaner to tackle the problem.

Try this Heloise homemade cleaner: Make a thick paste using sudsy household ammonia and baking soda. Take a stiff bristle brush, scrub the paste into the stain really well and let it sit until dry (being sure to keep pets and small children away).

Rinse well. You may need to do this more than once for stubborn stains.

If a couple of tries doesn’t achieve good results, there are commercial oil-stain removers available at hardware or home-improvement stores.

Have other stain or cleaning problems around the house? For a copy of my

“

HELOISE

Heloise’s Homemade Cleaning Solutions, just send $5 and a long, self-addressed, stamped (65 cents) envelope to: Heloise/Cleaners, P.O. Box 795001, San Antonio, TX 78279-5001. It includes money-saving “recipes” to remove many stains from carpet, grout, drains, etc. Why buy commercial products when you can make most at home for just pennies? If the stain on your driveway is orange-looking, it might be rust, and that requires a good rust remover. — Heloise PET PAL Dear Readers: Avalon in Grapeland, Texas, sent in a photo of her cute little tan-and-white Chihuahua, Tippy, standing by the phone. Avalon says, “My dear little Tippy would run and stand by the telephone when it rang and wait until I came and picked it up.” To see Tippy, the “answering machine,” visit www.Heloise.com. — Heloise

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NFL

4B THE ZAPATA TIMES

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2012

Romo climbs Dallas recordbooks ASSOCIATED PRESS

IRVING — The spoils of playing quarterback for the Dallas Cowboys are plentiful. It is an iconic sports position, one that has featured Hall of Famers Roger Staubach and Troy Aikman. Do well and fame and fortune are sure to follow.

Tony Romo will tell you it’s an honor to be mentioned in the same sentence with legends such as Staubach and Aikman.

And even though there is pressure being compared with players who combined to win five Super Bowls, Kyle Orton said the upside is far greater. “"When you follow those guys, it’s great,” said Orton, the Cowboys’ backup quarterback. “You’re always excited when you get to play the same position as some great players have played.

So it is pressure, or fun?

“A little of both, to be honest with you,” said Orton, who should know. He played two years in Denver, where quarterbacks are often reminded they are not John Elway. “But Tony’s such a high-level quarterback that he’s capable of living up to those expectations.”

Romo is poised to make significant movement in the Cowboys record book.

He currently ranks fourth in Dallas history with 152 touchdown passes, but that is only one behind Staubach’s 153 and three behind the 155 by Danny White.

Romo could pass both players with four TDs against Seattle on Sunday.

Aikman currently leads the team with 165 TD passes. The fewest Romo has had in any full season he played was 26. He had 31

Photo by Brett Coomer | Houston Chronicle

Houston Texans safety Glover Quinn (29) has made the positionary shift from cornerback under defensive coordinator Wade Phillips.

Photo by Julio Cortez | AP

The Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo looks to pass against the New York Giants on Wednesday in East Rutherford, N.J. last year. Right now, he’s only 13 behind.

Orton said that is not the type of achievement that any quarterback celebrates - at least during the season.

“Any quarterback worth their salt is focused on offensive goals, team goals and not really individual goals,” Orton said. “I’m sure he doesn’t even know that he’s close to them. All that stuff is stuff you look back on at the end of your career and think about how great it is. But while you’re doing it, you’re just trying to win games.”

While statistics aren’t the final determinant of greatness, they do indicate productiveness. Any Romo has been far more efficient than his predecessors.

Romo has played in only 84 games for Dallas while Aikman played in 165 and Staubach played in 131. White played in 166.

As he is constantly reminded in Dallas, however, Romo has only one playoff victory since winning the starting quarterback job six games into the 2006 season.

Aikman won three Super Bowls. Staubach won two. And unless Romo gets a title of his own, he likely will be thought of in much the same way as Danny White, who led Dallas to three consecutive NFC championship games.

The Cowboys lost all three.

Aikman said during the offseason that Romo was a better quarterback than him. And Staubach said he didn’t understand it when Romo is criticized.

“Anytime you have some of the all-time greats of the game say anything good about you, it’s rewarding,” Romo said.

“You look up to them and you know how talented they are, so the respect that I give them is at a 10 from 1 to 10. That’s always something that is a great feeling.”

When he eventually passes Staubach and Aikman and becomes the Cowboys’ all-time leader in TD passes, Romo will undoubtedly enjoy a great feeling.

But not a super one.

“Every season when you don’t win a Super Bowl,” he said, “it’s not a good feeling.”

Quin shifts positions, makes more noise

By CHRIS DUNCAN ASSOCIATED PRESS

HOUSTON — Houston Texans safety Glover Quin hardly thinks about it. He also never wants to completely forget it.

Two years ago in Jacksonville, Quin tried to knock down a 50-yard desperation heave from David Garrard and ended up giving up the winning score.

The Texans (1-0) return to Jacksonville (0-1) for a game this weekend against a division foe.

“It was a bad thing that happened,” Quin said. “It was just an unfortunate situation. I really don’t lose any sleep over it.”

Quin was a fourthround draft pick by the Texans in 2009, and played in 15 games as a rookie.

He started all 16 games in 2010, and had his moments, setting a franchise record with three interceptions against Rusty Smith in a 20-0 victory over Tennessee, and recovering fumbles in games against Indianapolis and San Diego.

And then there was that game against the Jaguars.

Before the final play, Quin had led the Texans with 13 solo tackles, including one for a loss. The score was 24-all with 3 seconds left, and Jacksonville had the ball at midfield.

Garrard heaved the ball toward the end zone, and Quin smacked the ball volleyball-style and into the waiting arms of Mike Thomas, who slipped into the end zone for the deciding TD. Quin was a cornerback in a 4-3 defense then, and he’s a safety in Wade Phillips’ 3-4 alignment. Previous Texans coaches told Houston’s defensive backs to bat down a ball in that scenario; Phillips encourages them to try to catch it if they can.

Quin was Houston’s second-leading tackler in 2010 (85) and tied for team’s top interception total. The Texans finished 6-10, though, and coach Gary Kubiak fired defensive coordinator Frank Bush, secondary coach David Gibbs and two other assistants.

One of Phillips’ first decisions when he became Houston’s defensive coordinator was moving Quin from cornerback to safety.

It’s a more complicated position, Quin says, but he’s developed confidence playing there.

Quin made eight fewer tackles (77) in 2011, but says playing safety has made him a more cerebral defensive player. When he played cornerback, Quin said he was always looking to see where his help would come from, so he could gauge how aggressive he could be. At safety, he’s more focused on the defense as a whole, recognizing formations and calling for adjustments on the field.

“You have different fits,” Quin said. “In run game, you have different rules. You have to know your linebacker rules, so you know where you fit, you have to know where your corners are playing, so you know how to play with your corners. You definitely have to know a lot more at safety.”