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HOMICIDE
Bloody murder Help late for victim, ‘covered in blood’ By CÉSAR G. RODRIGUEZ
DANIEL VILLARREAL: Charged with murder, held on $750,000 bond.
THE ZAPATA TIMES
Deputies arrested a man accused of stabbing another to death after an apparent verbal altercation led to a fight late Thursday in east Zapata. Deputies took Rene Daniel Villarreal, 24, into custody and charged him with mur-
der. A man, later identified as 23-year-old Christopher Louis Martinez, ran toward a Zapata County Sheriff ’s Office deputy seeking help while the
official attended to another call around 11:30 p.m. in the 600 block of Miraflores Avenue. “He was covered in blood,” said Capt. Aaron Sanchez. Sanchez said preliminary reports indicated that during a fight, Villarreal pulled a knife and stabbed Martinez.
See MURDER PAGE 12A
Taxes increase in 2010-11 county budget By LORRAINE L. RODRIGUEZ THE ZAPATA TIMES
The Zapata County budget for fiscal year 2010-2011 was adopted with a 4-cent tax rate increase so commissioners could avoid having to use the county’s fund balance. The rate increase is expected to offset a budget shortfall. “We were offered four differ-
READY TO CELEBRATE
ent scenarios, a zero, two, three, or four cents increase per $100 of valuation,” Commissioner Eddie Martinez said. “Option four was the only one where we didn’t dig into the fund balance and keep it intact at around 14 million.” A home in Zapata is valued at $50,000 on average and homeowners will be paying an aver-
See COUNTY PAGE 12A
COUNTY
Chamber, museum, to merge Commissioners find way to save money by combining staffs By LORRAINE L. RODRIGUEZ THE ZAPATA TIMES
According to Ramirez, students are being provided with an extra 45 minutes of reading programs, such as the Dynamite Reading Club and the Who Wants to Be a Word Millionaire? program, which encourages students to read a million words by February. That’s been a popular program with some students, the principal said. “I’ve seen the fifth graders reading books in the cafeteria,” Ramirez said. Zapata North Elementary, a new school operating as a pre-K 3 to fifth grade elemen-
The Zapata County Commissioners have decided to combine the Chamber of Commerce and the Zapata County Museum of History as a cost-cutting measure, a decision the museum board was willing to fight against on Monday at the commissioners’ meeting. In February 2008, commissioners considered placing the Convention and Visitors Center at the museum in order to save money, but the idea eventually was dropped. “I think more people will stop there and it will entice them to visit the museum,” Commissioner Eddie Martinez said on Monday. “It can work and I’m sure they will find a way.” Chamber of Commerce president Jose F. “Paco” Mendoza was appointed museum director by the Commissioners Court as a result of the merger. “I think it was a decision made based on what was best for the taxpayers of Zapata, considering the financial situation that the county is looking at,” Mendoza said. “I think it can be done. I don’t see it as a very difficult task and I think my staff and I are both qualified to handle the additional responsibility.” According to Mendoza, the hiring of a new staff of four for the museum would have cost the county more than $100,000.
See SCHOOLS PAGE 11A
See MUSEUM PAGE 12A
Photo by Ulysses S. Romero | The Zapata Times
First grader Javier Gutierrez prepares a tostada as part of the 16 de Septiembre celebration at Zapata South Elementary School.
PUBLIC EDUCATION
District plans to keep recognized status By LORRAINE L. RODRIGUEZ THE ZAPATA TIMES
Zapata County ISD, a 2009-2010 TEA recognized district, is looking into maintaining that status by following an improvement plan that addresses four major goals focusing on the students, the teachers, and the school’s needs, according to Interim Superintendent Norma Garcia, who spoke at a school board meeting Tuesday. All the district’s principals compiled a list of strategies and activities they will focus on for the next year or two to improve student
performance, Garcia said. The district recognizes student performance as the first goal, Garcia said. To meet that goal, the district has 10 major objectives to meet, such as a core curriculum alignment, a curriculum audit in October, and the implementation of the Professional Teaching and Learning Cycle Model and THE C-SCOPE curriculum program. Basics also have a place in the district’s strategy. “We are focusing on spelling to become better readers,” said Principal Erica Ramirez of Zapata North Elementary.
PAGE 2A
Zin brief CALENDAR
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2010
AROUND TEXAS
TODAY IN HISTORY
SATURDAY, SEPT. 25
ASSOCIATED PRESS
The Monte Mucho Audubon bird watching trip will take place at the Corpus Christi Hawk Watch in Hazel Bazemore Park, just north of Robstown, from 6 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The annual hawk migration is a true spectacle of the natural world. An average of 700,000+ raptors is counted each fall; expect to see at least 10,000+ on an average morning. Do not miss this event, as it is truly a miracle of nature. Beginning birders and the public are always welcomed. A car pool will leave Laredo, so call for details. Visit www.meetup.com/montemucholaredo/ calendar/14479839/ or call Raul Delgado at 763-7624.
FRIDAY, SEPT. 24 Billboard’s Number 1 recording artist, Daddy Yankee, will perform at the Laredo Energy Arena as part of his Mundial Tour. The concert is scheduled to start at 8 p.m. Visit learena.com or call Ticketmaster at 1-800-745-3000.
SATURDAY, SEPT. 25 The Women’s City Club will host “Dancing with the Stars, Laredo Style” today at the Laredo Country Club, 1415 Country Club Drive. Dinner will be at 6:30 p.m., with the show beginning at 8 p.m. A table of eight costs $600. For reservations, call Esther Degollado at (956) 337-2523, Nancy de Anda at (956) 763-9960, Cindy Reyes at (956) 220-3187 or Molly Martinez at (956) 724-2300. Unitrade presents Asian Night 2010 “Moon Festival.” This year’s spectacular event will feature music, a fashion show, live and silent auctions, cultural dances, traditional Asian food, and artistic performances. Moon Festival will begin at 6 p.m. and will be held at the Laredo Energy Arena. For ticket information, call 251-4351.
SUNDAY, OCT. 2 There will be a calf raffle today at the American Legion Post #486 fall dinner. The calf has been donated by Chale Guerra, commander of Post #486. Tickets are $2 each or $5 for three tickets. For more information, contact Beto Arambula at (956) 3375117. Funny man Gabriel "Fluffy" Iglesias returns to Laredo Energy Area tonight, ready to knock the audience’s socks off with his Comedy Central Live, The Fluffy Shop, Comedy Tour. Tickets are on sale now at all Ticketmaster locations, including the LEA Box Office, H.E.B. stores or charge by phone at 1800-745-3000. Call (956) 791-9192. The 40th Annual Ladies State Chili Championship and 3rd Annual Open Barbeque Cookoff is scheduled at Yett Memorial Park, 1813 US Hwy 281 S., Blanco, from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Admission is free and proceeds benefit the Breast Cancer Resource Center. The event promises to be a day full of family fun as women chili cooks from all corners of Texas compete for the opportunity to wear the crown and claim the title of 2010 Texas Chili Queen. The top three winners qualify to cook at the prestigious Original Terlingua International Frank Tolbert – Wick Fowler Championship Chili Cookoff in November. The barbeque competition is open to cooks of both sexes. The Girly Man Beauty Contest starts at 11 a.m. Chili samples for public tasting at 1 p.m. Moby Slick will be live at 7 p.m. Call Susie Higgins at 512-558-1321 or visit ladiesstate.org for details and entry forms.
Photo by Todd Yates/Corpus Christi Caller-Times | AP
Corpus Christi firefighters battle a 2-alarm fire at the Aquarium Inn in the 2800 block of North Shoreline Boulevard on Thursday, in Corpus Christi. Witnesses said they heard a loud explosion just before part of the motel collapsed and caught fire.
Three hurt in Corpus Christi motel explosion ASSOCIATED PRESS
CORPUS CHRISTI — An explosion left three people hurt and destroyed part of a Corpus Christi motel near the Texas State Aquarium. Fire Marshal Andy Cardiel says his investigation is focused on natural gas lines. Officials say the blast Thursday injured an employee of the Aquarium Inn, a delivery driver and a Texas State Aquarium parking lot attendant.
Lot worker Rudy Noriega says he suffered cuts on his arms from flying glass. Details of the injuries to the other two people were not immediately available. Calls on Friday by The Associated Press to the Aquarium Inn went unanswered. American Red Cross spokeswoman Sherry Bowers says help is being offered to more than a dozen now-displaced residents of the motel, including workers painting the Harbor Bridge.
Gunman, stepson dead in suburban standoff
Panel requests more experts in arson case
Pulitzer Prize-winning author Goetzmann dies
LEWISVILLE — Lewisville police have identified a gunman and the relative they believe he fatally shot before a standoff with law officers ended when he killed himself. The domestic dispute ended around 2:30 a.m. Friday. Lt. Scott Haynes says 48-yearold Daniel Peshak is believed to be the gunman who fatally shot his stepson, 24-year-old David Amonett, Thursday night. Both lived at the suburban Dallas home in Lewisville.
DALLAS — A Texas panel declined to clear fire investigators of professional misconduct for determining that arson was the cause of a 1991 fire that killed three girls and resulted in the execution of their father. The Texas Forensic Science Commission, meeting Friday in Dallas, instead decided to meet in November to question fire experts about the professional standards used by arson investigators in the early 1990s.
DALLAS — William H. Goetzmann, who won the Pulitzer Prize in history in 1967 for his book “Exploration and Empire,” which looked at journeys exploring the American West in the 19th century, has died. He was 80. Goetzmann, a longtime University of Texas at Austin professor, died Sept. 7 from congestive heart failure.
Fugitive sex offender arrested in Las Vegas LAS VEGAS — U.S. marshals say a 48-year-old fugitive sex offender who was wanted in Texas in a knifepoint attack on a woman and her son has been arrested in Las Vegas. Andre Mayes was arrested late Thursday by a team of fugitive hunters.
State gets $1.8M to bolster specialty crops DOVER, Del. — Texas is getting a $1.8 million federal grant to help market fruits and vegetables and promote food safety. The funding was announced Friday by Deputy Agriculture Secretary Kathleen Merrigan in Dover, Del., at the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture annual meeting.
Perry blasts feds for Rio Grande levee maintenance SAN ANTONIO — Gov. Rick Perry has launched another attack on Washington, saying he wants quicker repairs for levees along the Rio Grande. Perry on Friday released a letter he sent to the Obama administration that criticizes the federal International Boundaries and Water Commission for slow spending on millions of dollars slated for levee upgrades. -- Compiled from AP reports
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 6 Shakira, one of the most exciting and successful global artists in recent history, will perform in Laredo tonight at the Laredo Energy Arena. Call (956) 791-9192
SATURDAY, OCT. 9 The Laredo Firefighters Association presents Firefest 2010 with Ramon Ayala, Solido and Duelo scheduled to perform. The event will be hosted at the Laredo Energy Arena and is scheduled to begin at 5 p.m. Call Roger Gonzalez at 956-744-5495.
SUNDAY, OCT. 10 As part of the Steinway Series, Texas A&M International University has invited internationally acclaimed and prize-winning pianist Ning An to perform a piano recital from 4 to 6 p.m. The even is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Fritz Gechter at (956) 326-2639. To submit an item for the calendar, send the name of the event, the date, time, location and contact phone number to editorial@lmtonline.com
AROUND THE NATION Few are angry at acid hoax woman
CONTACT US
VANCOUVER, Wash. — The scars on her face were real, but her story about being splashed with acid was a horrific hoax. A day after Bethany Storro’s revelation turned the victim who drew sympathy into a curiosity and the object of much derision, few who banded together to collect money for her medical bills were angry with her on Friday.
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UAL, Continental approve airline deal The biggest airline in the world will have the United name, Continental’s globe logo and potentially far-reaching effects on air travel. Shareholders who approved combining the two companies Friday hope the new airline attracts more top-dollar corporate travelers with its larger network while reducing costs.
Today is Saturday, Sept. 18, the 261st day of 2010. There are 104 days left in the year. Today’s Highlight in History: On Sept. 18, 1810, Chile made its initial declaration of independence from Spain with the forming of a national junta. On this date: In 1759, the French formally surrendered Quebec to the British. In 1793, President George Washington laid the cornerstone of the U.S. Capitol. In 1850, Congress passed the Fugitive Slave Act, which created a force of federal commissioners charged with returning escaped slaves to their owners. In 1927, the Columbia Phonograph Broadcasting System (later CBS) made its on-air debut with a basic network of 16 radio stations. In 1940, Harper and Brothers published “You Can’t Go Home Again” by Thomas Wolfe, two years after the author’s death. In 1947, the National Security Act, which created a National Military Establishment, went into effect. In 1961, United Nations Secretary-General Dag Hammarskjold was killed in a plane crash in northern Rhodesia. In 1970, rock star Jimi Hendrix died in London at age 27. In 1975, newspaper heiress Patricia Hearst was captured by the FBI in San Francisco, 19 months after being kidnapped by the Symbionese Liberation Army. In 1990, the city of Atlanta was named the site of the 1996 Summer Olympics. The organized crime drama “GoodFellas,” directed by Martin Scorsese, had its U.S. premiere in New York. Ten years ago: The first working day of a transit strike that had begun over the weekend forced nearly half a million Southern California commuters to scrounge for rides or get behind the wheel themselves. Workers began rebuilding a railway line between the capitals of North and South Korea. Today’s Birthdays: Singer Jimmie Rodgers is 77. Actor Robert Blake is 77. Sen. Robert Bennett (R-Utah) is 77. Actor Fred Willard is 71. Singer Frankie Avalon is 70. Rock musician Kerry Livgren is 61. Actress Anna Deavere Smith is 60. Basketball coach Rick Pitino is 58. College Football Hall of Famer and retired NFL player Billy Sims is 55. Movie director Mark Romanek is 51. Baseball Hall of Famer Ryne Sandberg is 51. Actor James Gandolfini is 49. Alt-countryrock musician Mark Olson is 49. Singer Joanne Catherall (Human League) is 48. Actress Holly Robinson Peete is 46. Rhythm-and-blues singer Ricky Bell (Bell Biv Devoe and New Edition) is 43. Actress Aisha Tyler is 40. Cycling champion Lance Armstrong is 39. Opera singer Anna Netrebko is 39. Actress Jada Pinkett Smith is 39. Actor James Marsden is 37. Actress Emily Rutherfurd is 36. Actor Travis Schuldt (TV: “Scrubs”) is 36. Rapper Xzibit is 36. Thought for Today: “I have to see a thing a thousand times before I see it once.” – From “You Can’t Go Home Again,” by Thomas Wolfe, American author (1900-1938).
Photo by Sean D. Elliot/The Day | AP
Connecticut Army National Guard Staff Sergeant Turhan "Pop" Papadopoulos, of Norwich, hands kindergartener Chanel Holland her pudding, as he greets students during lunch at North Stonington Elementary School on Friday.
Muslim summit planned over NYC Islamic center NEW YORK — Muslims who were indifferent about a proposed Islamic center near the
World Trade Center site are now rallying around the plan, in response to a sense their faith is under assault. A summit of U.S. Muslim organizations is planned for today and Sunday in New York City. — Compiled from AP reports
SUBSCRIPTIONS/DELIVERY (956) 728-2555 The Zapata Times is distributed on Saturdays to 4,000 households in Zapata County. For subscribers of the Laredo Morning Times and for those who buy the Laredo Morning Times at newsstands, the Zapata Times is inserted. The Zapata Times is free. The Zapata Times is published by the Laredo Morning Times, a division of The Hearst Corporation, P.O. Box 2129, Laredo, Texas 78044. Phone (956) 728-2500. The Zapata office is at 1309 N. U.S. Hwy. 83 at 14th Avenue, Suite 2, Zapata, TX 78076. Call (956) 765-5113 or e-mail thezapatatimes.net
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2010
Zlocal
PAGE 3A
VILLARREAL ELEMENTARY STUDENTS OF THE WEEK
Emergency air lift service now available here By LORRAINE L. RODRIGUEZ THE ZAPATA TIMES
People needing emergency care in mostly rural Zapata County find it difficult to access medical care, but Air Evac Lifeteam, a quick response unit, is now available through local emergency responders to bring definitive care to all who need it. An Air Evac brochure describes the time of need as the “Golden Hour,” meaning, “the time from a traumatic injury until you reach definitive care, which can improve your outcome.” In service since 1985, Air Evac is made up of medical specialists on duty 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to respond to medical emergencies. “Time is of the essence, especially in rural America without access to medical care,” said Ken Euler, Air Evac Lifeteam membership sales manager. “We’re adding an element of emergency services that did not exist before, quick response, the ability to apply life saving treatment and transport to definitive treatment facilities.” Now located in Laredo, Air Evac is 20-25 minutes away from Zapata County. “Air Evac’s whole business model is to better and give quicker access to definitive care,” Euler said. “We will enhance the emergency services that already exists in Zapata County.” To determine the need for Air Evac services, after the initial call to 911, the dispatcher will determine what type of emergency
Now located in Laredo, Air Evac is 20-25 minutes away from Zapata County. transportation is needed. Air Evac is usually dispatched at the time of a heart attack, stroke or serious car accident where several serious injuries may exist, the brochure states. Euler said Evac is the newest partnership of 93 bases in the country. Air Evac also has the largest air medical membership program with more than 800,000 members. The company has 25 years of experience and more than 200,000 safely flown missions, Euler said “The membership benefits program allows members to be flown at no cost to them,” Euler added. According to the brochure, “Air Evac will work on your behalf with your benefits provider to secure payment for your flight and whatever your benefits provider pays will be considered payment-in-full for your flight.” “We fly members and non-members alike, but members do not receive a bill,” Euler added. Anyone interested in becoming a member may visit the website at www.lifeteam.net or may call 1-(800) 793-0010. (Lorraine L. Rodriguez may be reached at (956)7282557.)
Courtesy Photo
Pictured are the students of the week at Villarreal Elementary. Bottom Row Left to Right: Jacqueline R. Morales, Magdiela Torres, Kassandra Ibarra, Jessica Martinez, Karen Zuniga, Carlos Garcia, Nathaniel Benavides, Ralphie Garcia 2nd Row Left to Right: Priscilla Rodriguez-Ramos, Leslie Sanchez, Samantha Alanis, David Sanchez, Emily Hernandez, Victoria Garcia 3rd Row Left to Right: Ivan Pichardo, Kayla Minor, Kassandra Benavides, Christopher Araiza, Juan Zapata, Rolando Martinez, Sarai Resendiz, David Chapa, Miguel Garcia Top Row Left to Right: Helga Vela, Joselyn Garcia, Pedro Lara, Agapito Cabriales, Juan Angel Barrientos, Gilberto Trejo, Hector Barrientos
THE BLOTTER CRIMINAL MISCHIEF Deputies responded to a criminal mischief call at about 5 p.m. Sept. 12 in the 1300 block of Ninth Street. A 26-year-old woman told them someone broke her vehicle’s windshield. The estimated value of the damage was $250.
THEFT A 46-year-old woman reported around 11 a.m. Thursday someone stole an electrical blower in the 1000 block of Elm Street. Deputies responded to a theft call at about 1 p.m. Thurs-
day at the Conoco Pump-N-Shop on U.S. 83. An employee from the store said someone stole a soda cooler from outside the business. A 25-year-old man reported at 7:20 p.m. Sept. 12 someone stole several tools from his front porch in the 1900 block of Villa Street. The tools were valued at $250.
BURGLARY Jose Fernando Guerra, 38, was arrested on charges of burglary of a vehicle at about 1 a.m. Wednesday in the 1700 block of
Del Mar Street. He was booked and taken to Zapata Regional Jail and held under a $25,000 bond. A woman reported at 10:20
a.m. Tuesday that someone stole jewelry, worth $3,500, from her residence in the 200 block of Point Drive.
PAGE 4A
Zopinion
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2010
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR SEND YOUR SIGNED LETTER TO EDITORIAL@LMTONLINE.COM
COLUMN
OTHER VIEWS
Obama out of step on sytle and substance By GARY ANDRES HEARST NEWSPAPERS
Many factors are contributing to President Obama’s decline in popularity since his historic election less than two years ago. A stagnant economy with stubbornly high unemployment certainly caused part of the downward trend. But there is more. A White House out of step with many Americans on both public policy substance and style in office also explains a huge part of the dip. Presidential control over the business cycle is limited. So Obama’s sour economy is partially caused by factors beyond his reach.
Consequences But only partially. Other variables are clearly within his grasp. For example, presidents make their own policy and stylistic choices — preferences that can, and indeed do, produce major economic and popularity consequences. Errors in this second area fall squarely on the White House’s shoulders. Images of Obama — the candidate — are now only fading memories in the minds of the American electorate. Instead, a new portrait of his governing style is coming into focus. It’s a mosaic very different from the one painted in 2008. The more contemporary picture is disturbing, particularly to independents who trusted promises of post-partisanship. Instead of reflecting the policy and stylistic goals that propelled him to the White House, a misaligned presidency is now apparent, out of step with swing voters in both substance and tone. A new poll that I helped conduct for Resurgent Republic, released this week, underscores how Obama’s conduct in office and his legislative agenda have alienated many independents. It also shows that many of these swing voters now align much closer to Republicans than Democrats — another dark cloud on the White House’s horizon less than two months before the midterm elections. The Resurgent Republic poll interviewed 800 self-identified independent voters and asked them to place themselves, Obama, and the Democrats and Republicans in Congress, on a 010 scale on a variety of policy issues.
Seems liberal The results show a clear — and disturbing — pattern. On nearly every issue, swing voters place Obama in the most extreme, liberal position — even more than congressional Democrats. The respondents align themselves in a more conservative position, much closer to congressional Republicans. This same trend was evident on issues like government spending, health insurance, environmental regulation, and immigration. For example, consider
the results on spending. The survey asked independent voters to rank themselves, Obama, and the two political parties on a “0” to “Ten” scale, with “0” meaning “it’s a higher priority for the federal government right now to spend more money to help the economy recover” and “10” representing the belief that it’s a “higher priority for the federal government right now to spend less to reduce the budget deficit.”
Swing difference Independents ranked Obama at 2.5 on this scale and congressional Democrats at 2.88. Notice these swing voters place the president “closer” to the most extreme, “spend more money” position. In contrast, independents ranked themselves at 6.63 and the GOP at 7.04, demonstrating a close alignment with the Republicans and a significant distance from Obama and Democrats on this critical question. This same pattern played out among independents on health insurance, immigration, and environmental policy — voters ranked themselves closer to Republicans than Democrats in Congress or Obama. Moreover, they consistently ranked Obama as more extreme than even the congressional Democrats. This disappointment with Obama’s governing style translated to another question we asked in the poll about the president’s popularity. We asked if his sinking job approval was “mostly because of the economy” or if it was because of “his specific policies and how he has governed.”
COLUMN
Jews are biggest targets of hate By JONATHAN GURWITZ SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS\
Which president, Barack Obama or George W. Bush, made the following statement: “The Islam that we know is a faith devoted to the worship of one God, as revealed through the Holy Koran. It teaches the value and the importance of charity, mercy and peace.” Or this one: “We are not at war against Islam. We are at war against terrorist organizations that have distorted Islam or falsely used the banner of Islam to engage in their destructive acts.” Or this one: “Islam, as practiced by the vast majority of people, is a peaceful religion, a religion that respects others. Ours is a country based upon tolerance and we welcome people of all faiths in America.”
Policies are key
Two presidents
By a 10-point margin (52 percent to 42 percent) voters overall believed it was due to his policies and how he governed. Independents believed factors other than the economy contributed to his slumping numbers by an even larger, 23-point, margin (59 percent to 36 percent). Consistent with that finding, we also asked independents why they might not vote for Obama in 2012. Nearly half (47 percent) noted that he had “not changed the way politics is conducted.” Only 31 percent mentioned “handling of jobs and the economy.” Misalignment on policy and deep disappointment with Obama’s style are a growing narrative about this president. As Michael Gerson observed in the Washington Post last week, his methods and tone “have made it impossible for him to maintain the pretense of being a unifying, healing, once-in-a-generation leader.” “His challenge reaches beyond rhetoric and beyond the midterm elections: finding not only a new agenda but a new persona.” This sounds more like a statement of fact than political advice. Either way, the president’s political iPod seems cranked up pretty loud right now. It’s not clear he’s hearing very well.
The correct answers: Bush, Obama, Bush. If you had a hard time making the correct associations, that’s understandable. The two Americans who have occupied the Oval Office since Sept. 11, 2001, have both gone to great lengths to tamp down anti-Muslim sentiment. Only one of them, however, has been successful. Good reason existed to
fear a backlash against Muslims nine years ago. The nation had suffered its most devastating attack on American soil, an attack carried out by Islamic extremists.
2008, the latest year for which the FBI has released data, 66 percent of religious hate crimes were committed against Jews, 8 percent against Muslims.
Few incidents
In Islam’s name
There were in fact a handful of violent incidents and many more non-violent ones. In a case emblematic of blind prejudice, a man who bragged he would kill the “ragheads” responsible for 9/11 gunned down Balbir Singh Sodhi on Sept. 15, 2001, outside his Mesa, Ariz., gas station. Sodhi, who was Sikh — not Muslim — wore a traditional turban.
That’s a fairly remarkable set of statistics — or deplorable, if you’re considering it from the Jewish perspective. And it reflects a period of attempted and successful attacks carried out by terrorists in the name of Islam. 2010, however, suddenly has the feel — if not yet the statistical proof — of a significant rise in antiMuslim sentiment. Why would Americans be less likely to heed admonitions for tolerance from Obama rather than Bush? Why were there no national mosque controversies prior to Jan. 20, 2009, no international crises over Koran burnings in the United States and no need for the nation’s most respected general to explain why anti-Islamic provocations could endanger American troops?
Jews are targets But the expected wave of anti-Muslim fervor never materialized. Among religious-based hate crimes recorded by the FBI in 2002, the largest proportion by a long shot — 65 percent — was directed at Jews. Anti-Islamic incidents, the next largest group, constituted 11 percent of hate crimes in this category.
Steady numbers Those numbers have remained relatively constant over the years. In
People listen One possible reason is that Bush speaking out against anti-Muslim bigotry went against type. People expect someone from the liberal, multicultural
establishment to deliver pieties about peaceful Islam. But when a conservative cowboy — the kind of politician who allegedly employs the code words of bigotry and dog-whistle racism — does so, people take notice.
Confident Bush A far better explanation is that the American people were confident that Bush would do whatever it took to protect the nation from another attack. He could speak convincingly about how extremists had hijacked a religion of peace because Americans had no doubt that he was completely committed to the extremists’ destruction.
Meaningless pledges While the form of Obama’s war on terror has followed that of Bush in some respects, in other respects — especially rhetorically — it differs significantly. From pledges to close down Guantanamo Bay to giving terrorists Miranda rights to setting deadlines for troop withdrawals, Americans can’t be certain that Obama is as committed to protecting the nation as he is to appeasing the anti-antiterror left. (E-mail: jgurwitz@express-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 name-call-
DOONESBURY | GARRY TRUDEAU
ing or gratuitous abuse is allowed. Via e-mail, send letters to editorial@lmtonline.com or mail them to Letters to the Editor, 111 Esperanza Drive, Laredo, TX 78041.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2010
THE ZAPATA TIMES 5A
PAGE 6A
Zentertainment
Shrine Circus now in Laredo SPECIAL TO THE TIMES
LAREDO MORNING TIMES
Show times, tickets
Photo by Ulysses S. Romero | The Zapata Times
A trainer with the Shrine Circus prepares the elephants for this weekend’s perfomances at the Laredo Energy Arena on Friday morning. Show times are Friday, Sept. 17, at 7:30 pm; Saturday, Sept. 18, at 11 a.m., 3:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; and Sunday, Sept. 19, at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. Tickets are $12 for children, $16 for adults and $25 for VIP seats. Tickets are available via Ticketmaster. More information is available at www.laredocircus.com Presented by the Alzafar Shriners, the circus features performers from more than 15 countries, along with some of the most amazing animals in the world today, including elephants, tigers, sheepdogs and Liberty ponies. The Shrine Circus is interactive with audience members, who are allowed into the circus rings before, during intermission and after the show. Guests also have an opportunity to meet the performers up close, enjoy circus amusements and even get a chance to ride the elephants and ponies.
Music Life Fest audition is today By EMILIO RÁBAGO III
It’s circus time again in Laredo as the annual tradition of the Shrine Circus continues this weekend at the Laredo Energy Arena. The world-class performers, fun and excitement of the Shrine Circus is coming to Laredo with topnotch performances for families and children of all ages. Dubbed the “2010 Laredo Circus Spectacular,” the circus will bring the excitement of all the sights, sounds, smells and family memories that will surely last. With new lighting and improved sound, this year’s circus is the biggest and best ever, according to the Alfazar Shriners.
The performers Michelle Audrey, ring mistress: The elegant Michelle Audrey is guaranteed to dazzle and amaze as she guides thrilled audiences through the shows. As one of the only female ring mistresses in the circus world today, Audrey is grateful for her opportunity. “I’m delighted to be a part of bringing the magic of the circus to the families of Laredo,” said Audrey via a press release. “The Circus is for everybody and I’m so pleased that producer George Carden has made the event affordable so all families can attend. In these tough economic times, we need fun time with our families more than ever. The circus is truly a fun family adventure which will create lifelong memories.” Audrey’s husband, Israel, is also a part of the show as prop boss.
Lloyd’s Giant Old English Sheepdogs: This canine comedy act is more of a family presentation than one might think, because Juan Raul Rodriguez, and his wife Margaret Lloyd, firmly feel the dogs are a part of the family. That may be stretching it a biit, but at least their furry friends are a family of their own. Annie and Rufo were the animal part of the act themselves, until they had puppies. Now, Tramp, Gaucho, Benji, Negro, Emma and Lady Trixie are all in the show with them. Juan was a clown by profession, as were his father and grandfather before him. Having worked with a balloon-chasing boxer, the idea of clowning in a big, hairy dog suit followed. Then Rodriguez decided on the real thing, capitalizing on the friendly, funny interrelationship of the big sheepdogs with himself. He is a world-class performer, bringing a fresh approach to everything he does. His
Lloyd’s Old English Sheep Dogs have performed in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and throughout South America. Bo, the star of the show: Bo is the largest performing elephant on the planet, according to the press release. This majestic pachyderm entertains the audience in his rock and roll debut. He is the most amazing performing elephant in the world. The Georgettes: Not to be missed, The Georgettes are 12 talented dancers who bring stage and sound together as they provide rhythm and grace to the show. They are aerialists, too. Watch as these beauties climb to the sky, in a daring display. Other acts include Bruno Blaszac’s Bengal Tigers and the world-famous España Family Daredevils, from Mexico City.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2010
The stage is set for local artists and performers to show Laredo their skills at the first annual Music Life Festival audition concert, scheduled for 3 p.m. Saturday at the Laredo Civic Center Auditorium. Thirty-six local acts — ranging from amateurs to semi-experienced singers, including some who have released CDs or mix tapes — will compete for the chance to perform Friday, Sept. 24, at the Laredo Energy Arena, before global superstar Daddy Yankee takes the stage. The audition concert will have artists from a variety of genres — everything from rap MCs and DJs to reggeaton artists to dance crews and cheer squads. Each group will get eight minutes to sing or perform its routine. Three out-of-town judges, in collaboration with audience members, will decide who advances to perform on the biggest stage in Laredo. The judges include a booking agent for celebrities, an East Coast promoter and a surprise MTV celebrity who will also host the show, according
to Paul Magee, of Global Groove London. “It has created a big buzz among local artists and everybody is coming together,” Magee said. “It’s great for the community.” The audition concert is free, but the Civic Center auditorium seats only about 2,000 people. Magee suggests early arrival for the auditions Saturday, since the seats will be on a first-come, first-served basis. The free tickets are still available at tdK clothing store inside Mall del Norte. “I think people are going to have a new-found respect for local artists,” Magee said. “Were going to find talent that Laredo didn’t realize existed.” Family and audience members will have a chance to vote for their favorite artists at the auditions, and the judges will input their professional evaluations. The winners, about 16 acts, according to Magee, will get to perform at the LEA from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. next Friday. Daddy Yankee is set to take the stage afterward, in what Magee hopes will be a packed house. For more information, call tdK at 753-2489.
SÁBADO 18 DE SEPTIEMBRE DE 2010
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MÉXICO CELEBRA 200 AÑOS DE SU INDEPENDENCIA
Agenda en Breve SÁBADO 18 DE SEPTIEMBRE LAREDO — Un evento para cambiar la vida con mensajes bíblicos de Beth Moore es hoy de 9 a.m. a 4 p.m. en la transmisión de “Beth Moore’s Living Proof”, en la First Baptist Church, 7610 N. Bartlett Ave. Los boletos tienen costo de 10 dólares y si compra uno, le obsequian otro. Más información en el 723-8374. LAREDO — Shrine Circus estará en la Laredo Energy Arena en tres presentaciones, a las 11 a.m., 3:30 p.m. y 7:30 p.m. Los precios varían de 14 a 27 dólares, según la edad y el lugar. Más información en learena.com, Ticketmaster ó en el 1-800-745-3000. LAREDO — El equipo de voleibol de TAMIU recibe a Newman University a las 12 p.m. Entrada general es de 5 dólares. Más información en el 326-2891. LAREDO — Visite el Planetario Lamar Bruni Vergara de TAMIU y disfrute “Attack of the Space Pirates” a las 5 p.m., “Stars of the Pharaohs” a las 6 p.m., y Pink Floyd’s “Dark Side of the Moon” a las 7 p.m. Entrada general es de 5 dólares. Más información en el 326-2444. NUEVO LAREDO — Festival Infantil de la Independencia, II Parte, presenta en “Festejando el Bicentenario” una visita de visita de Miguel Hidalgo y José Ma. Morelos con cuentos, dinámicas y creación de un mural en Estación Palabra a las 2 p.m. Entrada gratuita. NUEVO LAREDO — Sábados de Museos para Niños presenta “Pinta a Hidalgo en Acuarela”, con la proyección de cortos sobre Miguel Hidalgo y creación de un dibujo en acuarela en el Museo Reyes Meza a las 4 p.m. Entrada gratuita.
DOMINGO 19 DE SEPTIEMBRE LAREDO — El Segundo Circuito Internacional de Ciclismo en Laredo será a las 7 a.m. de hoy. El circuito será de 3.6 millas iniciando y terminando en la Laredo Energy Arena. La inscripción es de 30 dólares. Más información sobre categorías en el 774-3638 ó 728-7636. LAREDO — Shrine Circus estará en la Laredo Energy Arena con una presentación a las 6 p.m. Los precios varían de 14 a 27 dólares, según la edad y el lugar. Más información en learena.com, Ticketmaster ó en el 1-800-745-3000. LAREDO — El equipo de fútbol soccer varonil de TAMIU recibe a Newman University a la 1 p.m. La entrada general es de 5 dólares. Más información llamando al 326-2891.
MARTES 21 DE SEPTIEMBRE NUEVO LAREDO — El Cineclub “Fernando de Fuentes” presenta “Corazón de Melón” en el Teatro Lucio Blanco de Casa de la Cultura, a las 7 p.m. Entrada libre. Adolescentes y adultos.
JUEVES 23 DE SEPTIEMBRE NUEVO LAREDO — Hoy es Tarde Bohemia con música y teatro de diversos autores a las 6 p.m. en Estación Palabra. Entrada gratuita. LAREDO — El equipo femenil de fútbol soccer de TAMIU recibe a University of Texas - Brownsville a las 8 p.m. La entrada general es de 5 dólares. Más información en el 326-2891.
VIERNES 24 DE SEPTIEMBRE LAREDO — El cantante Daddy Yankee se presenta hoy en la Laredo Energy Arena a las 8 p.m. Puede adquirir su boleto en Ticketmaster en el 1-800-7453000 o en learena.com
Foto por Dario Lopez-Mills | Associated Press
Foto de cortesía | Gobierno de Tamaulipas
El Presidente de México Felipe Calderón suena la campana original de la Independencia desde el balcón de Palacio Nacional, el 15 de septiembre por la noche.
El Gobernador de Tamaulipas Eugenio Hernández Flores, ondea la Bandera Mexicana en el marco del 200 Aniversario del Grito de Independencia en Ciudad Victoria.
Calderón pide salir adelante POR E. EDUARDO CASTILLO ASSOCIATED PRESS Foto de cortesía | Gobierno de Nuevo Laredo
MÉXICO — México concluyó el jueves dos días de festejos por el bicentenario del inicio de la lucha de Independencia con un magno desfile militar y llamados del presidente Felipe Calderón a impedir que la criminalidad ensombrezca la grandeza del país. “Sí, hoy la patria tiene nuevos desafíos: enfrentamos por ejemplo el grave problema de la criminalidad que genera desánimo y preocupación entre muchos compatriotas”, dijo el mandatario en una ceremonia desde el Angel de la Independencia y ante representantes de los Poderes Legislativo y Judicial. Reconoció que el crimen es un reto “complejo”, pero aseguró que se ha enfrentado y en un momento será superado. “No permitamos que la adversidad nuble la visión y oculte la grandeza de México”, dijo un mandatario que ha hecho el tema de la seguridad pública una de sus prioridades de gobierno ante la violencia constante del narcotráfico y el crimen organizado que ya se ha cobrado más de 28.000 víctimas desde que asumió el poder en 2006. “No olvidemos que otros mexicanos enfrentaron también antes que nosotros obstáculos, penalidades, limitaciones mayores, mucho mas graves que las nuestras y salieron adelante”, añadió. El gobierno informó que los festejos que iniciaron el miércoles se han realizado en paz y sin reporte de mayores incidentes. En el inicio del tercer siglo del México independiente, Calderón también llamó a combatir la pobreza y consolidar la economía del
Miles de personas llenaron la Plaza Cívica de la Independencia para presenciar la ceremonia del Grito el miércoles por la noche en Nuevo Laredo, México. país, que en 2009 tuvo la mayor contracción de su producto interno bruto en ocho décadas por la crisis internacional. Las actividades del jueves comenzaron cuando Calderón revivió el “grito” original con el que el cura Miguel Hidalgo llamó en 1810 a la gente a comenzar la lucha de independencia de España, que México consumó en 1821. Unas horas después de haber pronunciado el “grito” en el Zócalo de la ciudad de México, como se hace tradicionalmente, el mandatario se trasladó hasta el estado central de Guanajuato y pronunció la arenga también desde la misma parroquia donde lo hizo el cura Hidalgo. “Llegó el momento de nuestra emancipación; ha sonado la hora de nuestra libertad; y si conocéis su gran valor, me ayudaréis a defenderla de la garra ambiciosa de los tiranos”, señaló Calderón desde la ciudad de Dolores Hidalgo, a unos 300 kilómetros al noroeste de la capital mexicana. De vuelta a la ciudad de México, el presidente acudió al Angel de la Independencia y de ahí fue al Palacio Nacional, en el Zócalo, para presenciar un tradicional desfile militar, pero que en esta ocasión además de las fuerzas armadas mexicanas tuvo la participación de contingentes de 17 ejércitos extranjeros. Las fastuosas celebraciones por el bicentenario iniciaron la tarde del miércoles en la ciudad de México con una ceremonia prehispán-
ica, un desfile de 27 carros alegóricos, una serie de conciertos y el “grito” en el Palacio Nacional, a un costado del Zócalo capitalino.
Tamaulipas A nivel estado, el Gobernador de Tamaulipas Eugenio Hernández Flores encabezó la ceremonia del Grito de Independencia en Ciudad Victoria. Ataviados con cuera tamaulipeca, con Hernández estuvo su familia completa, su esposa Adriana González de Hernández y sus hijos. Hernández, desde el pórtico de Palacio de Gobierno, hizo tañer la campana y ondeó el Lábaro Patrio para exclamar al unísono los nombres de los héroes de la patria: “¡Viva Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla!... ¡Viva José María Morelos y Pavón!... ¡Viva Josefa Ortiz de Domínguez!... ¡Viva Mariano Matamoros!... ¡Viva Ignacio Allende!... ¡Viva Vicente Guerrero!... ¡Viva Guadalupe Victoria!... ¡Viva Bernardo Gutiérrez de Lara!... ¡Viva el Bicentenario de la Independencia de México!... ¡Viva Tamaulipas!... ¡Viva Tamaulipas!... ¡Viva México!... ¡Viva México!... ¡Viva México!...” Según información oficial, de los 43 municipios que conforman la entidad, solamente en Miguel Alemán y Xicoténcatl no hubo ceremonia del grito.
Nuevo Laredo
Promueven escuelas de tiempo completo ESPECIAL PARA TIEMPO DE ZAPATA
CD. VICTORIA, México — En Tamaulipas existen en total 21 escuelas primarias de tiempo completo. Escuelas de Tiempo Completo tiene también como objetivo principal ampliar el tiempo destinado en la escuela a la aplicación del currículo e incorporar de manera complementaria otros campos formativos para favorecer el desarrollo integral de los alumnos. En Tamaulipas operan nueve planteles en Nuevo Laredo, uno en Reynosa, dos en Matamoros, uno en Ciudad Victoria, uno en Hidalgo, cuatro en Altamira y tres en Tampico, dijo el Subdirector de Educación Primaria Matías Vargas Fuentes. A decir de Vargas, el sistema educativo debe considerar un carácter sistemático de los cambios que se requieren para lograr una educación básica de buena calidad. “Para ello se están extendiendo las oportunidades de aprendizaje de los alumnos a través de la ampliación del tiempo escolar y de la eficiencia”, dijo Vargas. “’Escuelas de Tiempo Completo’ contribuye a mejorar los resultados educativos, desarrolla y fortalece el currículo nacional, propicia el logro de aprendizajes con calidad en un marco de equidad y atiende las dificultades y necesidades de los alumnos”, indica un comunicado de prensa del Gobierno de Tamaulipas. El horario que manejan las escuelas de tiempo completo es de 8 a.m. a 1 p.m. con
ESCUELAS POR MUNICIPIO Nuevo Laredo: “Jesús Reyes Heroles”, “Juan B. Tijerina”, “Profr. Eugenio Villarreal V.”, “Álvaro Obregón”, “Profr. Rafael Ramírez”, “Miguel Hidalgo”, “Enrique C. Rébsamen”, “Venustiano Carranza”, “Martín M. Herrera”. Reynosa: “Venustiano Carranza”. Matamoros: “Mariano Matamoros” y “Profa. Carolina Sosa González”. Ciudad Victoria: “Altaír Tejeda de Tamez”. Hidalgo: “Praxedis G. Guerrero”. Altamira: “Adolfo López Mateos”, Ricardo Flores Magón”, “Andrés Osuna Hinojosa” y “Aurora Cruz de Mora”. Tampico: “Ignacio Allende”, “Carmen Serdán” y “Luciano Guerrero Serrato”. Dichas escuelas atienden a cerca de 5 mil alumnos inscritos, contando con el apoyo de 200 docentes adscritos a los planteles. la carga académica curricular; de 1 p.m. a 2 p.m. se aplica el programa “Educación Saludable” (hora de comida); de 2 p.m. a 4 p.m. se aborda la caja de herramienta con seis aspectos: Fortalecimiento curricular de los aprendizajes sobre los contenidos curriculares; Uso didáctico de la tecnología, informática y comunicación; Arte y cultura; Recreación y desarrollo físico; Vida Saludable y Lengua adicional que es el Inglés; de 4 p.m. a 5 p.m. los maestros permanecen en la escuela para cuestiones de planeación y gestión institucional.
La celebración del Bicentenario del Inicio de la Independencia de México fue un acto encabezado por el Jefe de Gobierno Ramón Garza Barrios en la Plaza Cívica de la Independencia.Desde el balcón central del Palacio Federal el munícipe convocó a los neolaredenses a recordar a los héroes evocando el Grito de Dolores. “Neolaredenses, mexicanos: vivan los héroes que nos dieron patria y libertad hace 200 años. Viva Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, viva José María Morelos y Pavón, viva Josefa Ortiz de Domínguez, viva Ignacio Allende, viva Bernardo Gutiérrez de Lara, viva Nuevo Laredo, viva Tamaulipas, viva México, viva México, viva México”, dijo Garza Barrios. Estuvo acompañado de su esposa Rebeca Canales de Garza Barrios. Tras la entonación del Himno Nacional Mexicano, se dio paso a un espectáculo de pirotecnia. El espectáculo estuvo a cargo de las agrupaciones Salomón Robles, la Sonora Argaín y la Missión Colombiana. Por su parte, la Dirección de Protección Civil, Bomberos y Desastres, reportó saldo blanco al término de los festejos. En Laredo, Texas, también se realizó una ceremonia del Grito de Independencia la cual fue encabezada por el Cónsul General de México Miguel Ángel Isidro. (Con información del Gobierno de Tamaulipas y el Gobierno de Nuevo Laredo)
Invitan a checarse TIEMPO DE ZAPATA
NUEVO LAREDO — El Sistema para el Desarrollo Integral de la Familia en esta ciudad, en coordinación con el Sector Salud, realiza hasta el 24 de septiembre “Chécate y Toma el Control”. La Subdirectora de Atención al Adulto Mayor María Elena Alfaro de Hinojosa dijo que estas medidas de prevención son por la salud de todo. “Estas acciones van encaminadas hacia un mejor bienestar, a una mayor calidad de vida, a un estado de salud más óptimo”, dijo Alfaro. El Coordinador de Salud de la Jurisdicción Sanitaria No. V Gregorio de Jesús Ortegón Martínez expuso que son ocho módulos móviles los que se instalarán en los centros comerciales de Nuevo Laredo, además de los 14 puntos del sector salud, mientras que en la Casa Club del Adulto Mayor estará un módulo de manera permanente, de 9 a.m. a 2 p.m. “Año con año llevamos a cabo dos campañas intensivas como ésta, sin bajar la guardia en materia de bienestar, tomando la presión y haciendo exámenes de azú-
car”, dijo Ortegón. Según un comunicado de prensa, se trabaja en la detección de enfermedades para que sean manejadas y controladas a tiempo, ya que así se puede lograr un mejor resultado y una mayor calidad de vida para cada una de las personas que presentan este tipo de padecimientos. En la Casa Club del Adulto Mayor, Imelda Noris Hernández dijo que esta campaña es importante porque previene enfermedades crónicas degenerativas. Evelia Amaro Villarreal, otra de las personas favorecidas, opinó que le gusta estar sana, por lo que cada mes se realiza un chequeo de presión y diabetes. “Me parece muy bien, sobre todo nos ahorramos el dinero, ya que este servicio es gratis”, dijo Amaro. “Por eso, cada que vienen aprovechamos”. Martha González Luque, de 79 años, quien padece diabetes, agradeció la atención que se le ofrece dentro de la Casa Club del Adulto Mayor. “Yo creo que sí son buenos estos programas. Tengo diabetes y alta presión, y creo que es muy importante que nos estén revisando”, dijo González.
8A THE ZAPATA TIMES
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2010
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2010
THE ZAPATA TIMES 9A
CELEBRATING GRANDPARENTS’ DAY
Photo by L.M. Otero | AP
Courtesy photo
Villarreal Elementary students celebrate Grandparents’ Day. Grandparents had an opportunity to visit the classrooms where they were presented with a card and art project from their grandchildren. Pictured are Fernando Vazquez Jr., a fourth-grade student, with Mr. and Mrs. Eliseo Padilla, his grandparents.
Man, abducted as a boy, turns his father in By ANGELA K. BROWN ASSOCIATED PRESS
BEDFORD, Texas — Twenty-year-old Stephen Michael Palacios came across a newspaper story recently about a boy allegedly abducted by his father in 1993. Palacios, it turns out, was that boy. After learning about his past, Palacios persuaded his father to turn himself in — even accompanying him to a lawyer’s office this week — and will soon be reunited with the mother who desperately searched for him for 17 years. “I am so excited,” his mother, Dee Ann Adams, 40, told the Waco TribuneHerald. “I’m not even sure how I feel right now. It has been such a long time, and I had to move on. I had other kids I had to take care of. I am happy, and I am hoping we can rebuild our relationship, but the main thing is that I am in shock right now.” Palacios could not be located for comment Friday. He was 3 when he disappeared after a visit with his father, Stephen Palacios Jr., a high school Latin teacher and basketball coach in Waco who had been granted visitation rights after the couple’s divorce. A warrant for the father’s arrest was issued, and over the years detectives chased several leads. As recently as 2006, investigators put a Palacios family wedding under surveillance in Waco, but the elder Palacios didn’t show. Later that year, they had missing-person photos of Carmen Ramirez - Rathmell, D.D.S.
“Let your smile be a sign of happiness & good health”
1520 Corpus Christi Street Telephone (956) 726-0160
Photo by KTRK-TV | AP
This Thursday frame grab made from video shows Stephen Palacios Jr. after he surrendered to federal authorities in Houston. A Texas mother’s 17-year-long search for her son who authorities say was taken by his father is over after the grown-up son apparently saw a newspaper story about himself and persuaded his father, Stephen Palacios Jr., to turn himself in. Palacios was held Friday on charges of interference with child custody. the son mailed to 80 million homes in the U.S. Then the grown-up son saw an article in the Waco newspaper about the alleged abduction, according to his mother. In the story, police asked for the public’s help in solving the case. The article included a photo of Palacios as a toddler. “I was told that Stephen Michael somehow saw the article in your newspaper and told his dad that he wanted to meet his mom,” his mother told the newspaper. “Stephen Michael told him, ‘I want to meet my mom and I want you to do the right thing and get this taken care of now.”’ Thursday, father and son
went to a Houston lawyer’s office, where the older man surrendered to authorities on charges of interference with child custody. Authorities have not said where father and son had been living all these years, whether they were using aliases and what the father had told the son about his past. It was unclear how much the son knew before reading the newspaper story. Nor was it clear how he realized the story was about him. The father’s attorney, Paul Nugent, said his client “has always acted out of love for his son and by what he thought was in his son’s best interest.”
Gov. Rick Perry, right, looks at pistols under a display case as Mike Felts, left, looks on after a campaign event at a gun shop in Dallas, on Thursday. Perry has criticized U.S. House Minority Leader John Boehner for seeking a possible compromise on tax cuts with President Barack Obama.
Governor criticizes GOP leader Boehner By JAY ROOT ASSOCIATED PRESS
AUSTIN, Texas — Texas Gov. Rick Perry, who has positioned himself as a national figure on firebrand conservative causes, has criticized U.S. House Minority Leader John Boehner for seeking a possible compromise on tax cuts with President Barack Obama. In an interview with The Associated Press, Perry also embraced the two newly-elected Republicans backed by the tea party movement in Delaware and New York — candidates that many establishment Republicans have shunned.
Perry has made Washington a whipping post in his campaign for an unprecedented third term, and he hasn’t always limited his ire to Democrats. The longest serving governor in Texas history has often been mentioned as a 2012 presidential or vicepresidential contender even though he insists he’s not interested. While Perry is in a competitive re-election campaign against Democrat Bill White, he continues to speak out on national issues. In an interview from his campaign plane this week, Perry waded into the controversy over extending tax cuts, the grow-
ing influence of the antitax tea party movement, and the recent primary victories by anti-establishment conservatives in the northeast. Perry said he didn’t agree with Boehner’s comments last weekend that he could accept only a partial extension of the Bushera tax cuts. He suggested Boehner, who since backtracked, had surrendered on tax reductions. “I’m not generally the kind of guy that waves the white flag before I ever go out on the field of battle,” Perry said. “I would not have said we’re going to be making any compromises before I’d sat down and talked to the team.”
Perry hits feds for river levee work By PAUL J. WEBER ASSOCIATED PRESS
SAN ANTONIO — Gov. Rick Perry added levee repairs along the Texas border to his criticism of the federal government on Friday, saying slow spending of stimulus funds has kept residents along the flood-prone Rio Grande Valley at risk. In a two-page letter to White House officials, Per-
ry claimed that only a fraction of the $167 million in federal stimulus funds for immediate levee upgrades has been spent. If the federal agency in charge of the levees won’t spend the funds quicker, Perry wrote, the state is ready to hand out the money. But the International Boundary and Water Commission said $220 million in stimulus dollars are be-
ing spent on schedule, adding that border levees in Texas showed improved strength this summer during a busy tropical storm season. “The levees did their job,” agency spokeswoman Sally Spener said. The Rio Grande Valley has taken a lashing from three tropical storm systems this summer, starting with Hurricane Alex in June.
National
10A THE ZAPATA TIMES
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2010
Muslim summit eyes rhetoric By DAVID B. CARUSO ASSOCIATED PRESS
Pablo Martinez Monsivais | AP
President Barack Obama, right, with Connecticut Attorney General and Democrat candidate for US Senate Richard Blumenthal, left, are seen during a fundraiser in Stamford, Conn., on Thursday. Blumenthal is running in the Nov. 2 general election to fill the seat being vacated by the retirement of Sen. Christopher Dodd, D-Conn.
Dems beg for votes By CHARLES BABINGTON ASSOCIATED PRESS
WASHINGTON — With just six weeks to avoid a possible election catastrophe, Democrats are trying to limit the damage with a closing argument that’s more plea than platform: We know you voters are furious with us, but just let us explain why the Republicans would be worse. The strategy requires an autumn influx of voters willing to view the election as a choice between two imperfect parties — and imperfect candidates on each ballot line — rather than as a chance to slap the Washington establishment that the public seems to dislike so deeply.
But the Democrats admit the Republicans have a big emotional advantage with voters who are fed up with high unemployment, soaring deficits and what many see as an arrogant Congress and administration that rammed a revolutionary health care plan down their throats. If voters keep burning with the throw-the-bumsout fever that animated so many primaries, Democrats would be likely to lose more than 40 House seats, costing them the majority and positioning Republicans to block virtually any Obama initiatives in the next two years. Losing the Senate majority, which would require a 10-seat Republican gain, is less likely.
Democratic candidates want to convince these voters that no matter how much they hate the status quo, they would be worse off under a Republican Party that hasn’t learned from its mistakes and is lurching ever harder to the right. “This needs to be a choice, not a referendum” on the Democratic-led Congress and the Obama administration, said Erik Smith, a Democratic campaign adviser. President Barack Obama, campaigning for a Senate contender in Connecticut on Thursday, said of Republicans: “All they are going to be feeding us is anger and resentment and not a lot of new ideas
NEW YORK — Some Muslims who were initially indifferent about a proposed Islamic center near the World Trade Center site are now rallying around the plan, partly in response to a sense that their faith is under assault. A summit of U.S. Muslim organizations is planned for today and Sunday in New York City to address both the project and a rise in anti-Muslim sentiments and rhetoric that has accompanied the debate over the project. It has yet to be seen whether the group will emerge with a firm stand on the proposed community center, dubbed Park51. The primary purpose of the two-day meeting is to talk about ways to combat religious bigotry. But Shaik Ubaid of the Islamic Leadership Council of Metropolitan New York, one of the groups organizing the gathering, said he has a growing sense that the project is being embraced by American Muslims and Muslim groups after some initial trepidation. “Once it became a rallying cry for extremists, we had no choice but to stand with Feisal Rauf,” he said,
Photo by Craig Ruttle | AP
Imam Feisal Abdul Rauf, executive director of the Cordoba Initiative, addresses the Council on Foreign Relations on Monday, in New York. Rauf is in the midst of a polarizing political, religious and cultural debate over his plans for a multi-story Islamic center that will feature a mosque, health club and theater about two blocks north of ground zero in New York. referring to the New York City imam who has been leading the drive for the center. Groups scheduled to participate in the summit include the Islamic Society of North America, the Islamic Circle of North America, the Muslim Alliance of North America and the Council on American Islamic Relations. Gauging support for the center among U.S. Muslims is difficult. As a group, they are diverse, ranging from blacks who found the faith during the civil rights movement to recent immigrants hailing from opposite ends of the globe. They rarely speak with one voice. Yet after a pastor in Florida injected himself into the debate by threatening to burn copies of the Quran, U.S. Muslims stirred. “I think most Muslims outside New York City are
more concerned about the backlash than the actual center, which most of them will never directly benefit from,” said Shahed Amanullah, the editorof the website altmuslim.com. “Grass-roots support is indeed building,” he said, “but that is probably more due to the pushback against the general hostile climate.” The center’s location two blocks from ground zero has upset some relatives of Sept. 11 victims and stirred angry demands that it be moved. Critics say the site of mass murder by Islamic extremists is no place for an Islamic institution. Rauf has called for the Islamic center to be open to people of all faiths, while his co-leader of the project, Manhattan real estate developer Sharif ElGamal, has stressed its non-religious aspects.
ATF forms teams in seven cities to stop gun smuggling By JACQUES BILLEAUD ASSOCIATED PRESS
PHOENIX — A federal agency trying to stop guns from being smuggled from the United States into Mexico for use by drug cartels has formed teams in seven American cities to combat the problem. The teams set up by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are a follow-up to earlier temporary groups of investigators who worked in Houston and Arizona and seized about 2,000 guns.
The permanent 10-member teams will be based in two cities in the border region — in Brownsville, Texas, and Sierra Vista, Ariz. — and away from the border where smugglers have set up trafficking routes and recruit gun buyers in Dallas, Las Vegas, Oklahoma City, Atlanta and Miami. “We can’t put all of our resources in one point, because what we learned from other agencies is that if you put all resources to go after illegal activity in one point, guess what? It goes some place else,” said
Kenneth Melson, ATF’s deputy director. Many guns used by criminals in the Mexican government’s war against drug cartels are bought in the U.S., the bureau says. Cartels recruit “straw buyers” in the United States who make purchases on their behalf and then pay people to bring the weapons across the border. Agents on the teams will inspect records at firearms shops, investigate suspicious purchases and use traces from guns recovered in Mexico to track down straw buyers.
Melson said a team will be based in the southern Arizona city of Sierra Vista because the Sinaloa drug cartel uses the area as a transit route. Dennis Burke, the U.S. attorney for Arizona, said his state has become the gun locker for the cartels and warned of the serious consequences for people who buy guns on behalf of cartel members. “For a lot of these straw purchasers, they don’t think it’s a big deal,” Burke said. “They think it’s like buying beer for an underaged kid, but it’s not. It’s
an offense that violates federal law, and it’s leading to deadly consequences in Mexico.” Melson said the teams that operated in Houston for 120 days in 2009 and in Arizona and New Mexico for a similar length of time ending on Aug. 6 helped make a dent in the problem. But how big of an impact is unknown. The agency said it’s difficult to say how many guns from America are sneaked into Mexico. ATF said Texas and Arizona are the two largest
sources of guns that were seized in Mexico and had complete traces run on them. Not all seized guns in Mexico are traced. Of the 2,000 guns seized by both temporary teams, two-thirds were in Arizona. None were seized by the temporary team that worked in New Mexico, where investigators focused on inspecting records at gun stores. The new teams were funded by the $37 million that ATF recently received from Congress for combating gun smuggling along the southern border.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2010
THE ZAPATA TIMES 11A
TERESA G. MARTINEZ DE CHAPA ZAPATA — Teresa G. Martinez de Chapa, 95, passed away on Saturday, Sept. 11, 2010, at Laredo Medical Center. Mrs. Chapa is preceded in death by her husband, Alfonso Chapa; parents, Miguel and Maria Melciades Martinez; sons, Miguel Angel Chapa, Roel Chapa, Javier Chapa; grandsons, Jorge Humberto Chapa, Javier Chapa Jr.; great-grandchild, Jose Luis Gutierrez; daughter-in-law, Ellia G. Chapa; sons-in-law, Fernando Muñoz and Rodolfo Garcia; brothers, Tomas (Teresa) Martinez, and Miguel T. Martinez; sister, Maria de la Luz (Alfonso) Bustamante; nieces, Gloria Perales and Aminta Martinez. Mrs. Chapa is survived by her children, Melecio Chapa, Dora (Alberto) Chapa, Magda (Antonio) Lopez, Norma Chapa, Alicia Muñoz, Alma Garcia, Alfonso (Irma) Chapa, Jr., Blanca Chapa, Armando Chapa, and Roel (Dora M.) Chapa; 35 grandchildren, 63 great-grandchildren, seven great-great grandchildren and by numerous nephews, nieces
and other friends. Visitation hours were held Sunday, Sept. 12, 2010, from 6-9 p.m. with a rosary at 7 p.m. at Rose Garden Funeral Home. The funeral procession departed Monday, Sept. 13, 2010, at 9:30 a.m. for a 10 a.m. funeral Mass at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church. Committal services followed at Zapata County Cemetery. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.rosegardenfuneralhome.com. Funeral arrangements were under the direction of Rose Garden Funeral Home, Daniel A. Gonzalez, funeral director, 2102 Hwy. 83, Zapata.
Photo by Alexandre Meneghini | AP
A man carrying a Mexican flag walks on a highway during the passage of Hurricane Karl near Cardel, about 22 miles northwest of Veracruz, Mexico, on Friday. Hurricane Karl hit the Gulf Coast near Veracruz with winds of 115 mph.
Karl kills 2, hurts 2 in Mexico By MIGUEL ANGEL HERNANDEZ ASSOCIATED PRESS
BABY KIMBERLY FAITH THATCHER ZAPATA — Baby Kimberly Faith Thatcher passed away Tuesday, Sept. 14, 2010 at Doctor’s Hospital in Laredo. Baby Kimberly Faith is survived by her parents, Valerie Y. Esquivel and Derly Thatcher Jr.; maternal grandparents, Armando (Vilma) Esquivel; paternal grandparents, Derly Thatcher Sr. and Juanita De Leon (Hector Martinez Jr.) and other family members and friends.
A chapel service was held Wednesday, Sept. 15, 2010, at 9 a.m. at Rose Garden Funeral Home. Committal services followed at Martinez Cemetery in San Ygnacio. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.rosegardenfuneralhome.com. Funeral arrangements were under the direction of Rose Garden Funeral Home, Daniel A. Gonzalez, funeral director, 2102 Hwy. 83, Zapata.
VERACRUZ, Mexico — Hurricane Karl smashed into Mexico’s Gulf Coast on Friday, killing at least two people and forcing the country to shut down its only nuclear power plant and its central Gulf Coast oil platforms. As the storm pushed inland, a landslide buried a house in the town of Nexticapan, killing a 61-year-old woman and a 2-year-old girl and injuring two other people, said Aru Becerra, a spokeswoman for Civil Protection in Puebla state. Karl weakened rapidly into a tropical storm with winds of 70 mph as it
slogged across central Mexico. It was on track to pass south of Mexico City, where the skies darkened and rain started falling Friday evening. The storm had sustained winds of 115 mph when it hit land at midday about 10 miles northwest of Veracruz. It caused widespread damage in the port city, knocking down trees, billboards and power poles, said Veracruz’s civil protection chief, Isidro Cano Luna. He said there had not been a storm like it since Hurricane Janet hit in 1955. Veracruz state Gov. Fidel Herrera surveyed the heaviest damage in the coastal
SCHOOLS Continued from Page 1A tary school, has had to face some challenges because the teachers don’t have the luxury of knowing their students, Ramirez said. “Tutorials have started that process,” she said. “Students are coming in from other campuses and we need to let them know we care about your needs and make sure they’re happy.” A big emphasis is also being placed on the implementation of a state transitional plan to move from the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS) to the State of Texas Assessment of Academic Readiness (STAAR). Teachers will have to focus on a more rigorous curriculum which emphasizes college readiness standards to increase commended performance in all
core areas, especially in English and math, said Olinda Flores, director of assessment/intructional support. In order to prepare students for college, the district is providing access to college readiness exam programs. The 8th graders will have access to EXPLORE and sophomores will have access to PLAN and the PSAT. Juniors in high school will also have access to PSAT, ACT, SAT, THEA, and seniors will have access to ACT, SAT and will be offered advanced placement, dual credit, concurrent enrollment and Tech Prep. “There are currently 90 students taking college courses,” said Principal Jose M. Flores, Jr. of Zapata High School.
Other ZCISD goals include finance, human resources and learning environment, and school partnerships. All schools are transitioning to STAAR and a more rigorous curriculum by integrating new textbooks, but A.L. Benavides is taking the learning to the next level and reaching out to other campuses for help. “We are taking learning walks,” Benavides principal Norma Arellano said. “We are building the capacity and reaching out to other campuses to see how we’re going to help each other out and solidify what we’re doing to stay a recognized campus and district.” The District Improvement Plan also emphasized the need for a migrant counselor to improve stu-
dent performance in special programs. “The older they are, the harder it is to help them,” said Suzette Barrera, the district’s federal programs director. An average of 176 migrant students attend ZCISD, and may also fall under other categories, such as the bilingual/English as a Second Language, special education, at-risk, gifted-talented, or Career Technology Education. According to Barrera, only three out of seven migrants — or 43 percent — are graduating. The state rate is 75 percent, she added. “There are a lot of issues that need to be addressed,” Barrera said. (Lorraine L. Rodriguez may be reached at (956)7282557.)
towns north of the port. Food huts along the beach were destroyed in the fishing town of Chachalaca. In Ursulo Galvan, 10 homes collapsed or lost their roofs. “The hurricane is following a course that will also impact the mountain areas,” Herrera said. “We are releasing more water from the reservoirs, which could be overwhelmed by the rain.” In the city of Veracruz, fallen trees and signs made some streets impassable and about 70 homes were flooded. Local forecasters said the storm dumped 8 inches of rain in the city just in the first 90 minutes after arriving. Flights into Vera-
cruz were canceled, and public transit was shut down. A stretch of coastal road farther north in Nautla was washed out. Rains in the mountain regions could cause flash floods and mudslides, the U.S. National Hurricane Center in Miami said. Mexico City officials put crews on alert and began preparing for Karl, which they said could still have the strength of a tropical storm for its arrival near the capital Saturday. State oil company Petroleos Mexicanos closed 14 wells in the northern part of Veracruz state and evacuated workers from some platforms in the Gulf.
Starr: Religion key in higher education By ANGELA K. BROWN ASSOCIATED PRESS
WACO, Texas — Christian schools have an increasingly important role in higher education as students seek answers about life during uncertain times, Baylor University president Kenneth Starr said Friday during a ceremony. “More than ever, the nation and the world need Baylor University and the mighty impact of its enduring principles,” Starr said. “Ours is a time of great challenge for higher education in America.” Starr, whose investigation of land deals and the Monica Lewinsky scandal as a special prosecutor
led to President Bill Clinton’s impeachment, spoke during a two-hour ceremony marking his appointment as Baylor’s 14th president. He was hired to lead the world’s largest Baptist university earlier this year after serving as Pepperdine University’s law school dean since 2004. Starr said Americans as a whole are people of faith, but many view universities as “smugly remote and arrogantly aloof ” because schools tend to focus only on students’ intellectual needs or avoid religion entirely. Baylor has always cared about the spiritual growth of those on campus, he said.
12A THE ZAPATA TIMES
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2010
MURDER Continued from Page 1A The deputy called Zapata EMS crews, but Sanchez said that Martinez died at the scene. Justice of the Peace Fernando Muñoz pronounced the man dead at 12:10 a.m. Friday. According to Sanchez, Martinez suffered a puncture wound under the left side of his chest and another wound to his right
inner bicep. Deputies arrested Villarreal after a short foot chase into the brush in the surrounding area. Deputies recovered a knife and logged it as evidence. Investigators don’t know what led to the altercation between the two men, Sanchez said. “We’re still investigat-
ing,” he said. This marked the third homicide of the year for Zapata County.. After booking procedures, Villarreal was taken to Zapata Regional Jail, where he was held in lieu of a $750,000 bond. (César G. Rodriguez may be reached at 7282568 or cesar@lmtonlince.com)
MUSEUM Continued from Page 1A “We didn’t ask for any extra incentives and we’re not getting any extra compensation for it, but this was us showing an act of good faith on behalf of the chamber towards the Commissioners Court because they’ve supported the chamber for many years,” Mendoza said. Museum board members present at the meeting questioned Mendoza’s ability and criticized his lack of credentials. “The museum board envisioned a person that would have a professional degree that is studious and committed to the preservation of history and the presentation of artifacts and exhibits,” said Dr. Hildegardo Flores, the museum board president. “He is not prepared at the present time.” The merger controversy attracted negative attention from the museum board and became personal, Mendoza added. “I think it’s more personal than anything else and I think they need to set aside their personal feelings on the situation and respect the decision of the court and work with what we were given,” he said. “We’re gonna work together and we’re gonna have to do what has to get done and make sure the museum of history is successful.” The negativity is due simply to a difference of opinions, Martinez said. “Paco is a hard worker and tries his best, the fact that he doesn’t have a college degree doesn’t make him any less qualified,”
Martinez added. “He’s very involved and speaks very well.” Museum board members apparently felt differently. “My husband and I have worked countless hours traveling to Houston working with the South West Museum for part of the exhibits and the story line that was developed by my husband and members of the board,” said Olga Flores, museum board member and wife of Hildegardo Flores. “We have spent a whole year and we have sacrificed our personal lives for this endeavor and then to see it joined with another entity that is the mission is so different from ours, so its so heartbreaking.” The museum board envisioned people coming to the museum and meeting with a guide who would give personal tours to individuals, which would provide more insight than self-guided tours, Hildegardo Flores said. “Most of exhibits will be pictorial and we will have a few artifacts and that’s the reason for pushing for escorted tours,” he said. According to Flores, some of the commissioners envisioned a museum where people just wander into the building asking for directions or asking for info on the community and say “Oh, and by the way, there’s a museum here. Would you like to visit?” That’s not what the museum board envisioned, Flores said. “The museum board envisioned the museum becoming an extension of the
educational establishment of the county and surrounding counties because we’re talking about regional history,” Flores said. After the merger was approved, both the Chamber of Commerce staff and members of the museum board were confused as to whom Mendoza would answer. The Commissioners Court decided all matters pertaining to the Chamber of Commerce would be directed to the Chamber of Commerce board of directors and for matters pertaining to the museum, the museum board will be contacted. “I proposed a meeting with (Mendoza) and the museum board to shed additional light because not all the museum board was present on how this is gonna work, basically delineating the responsibilities of the museum and of the chamber,” Hildegardo Flores said. “These two are separate entities with different missions and different goals and different governing boards.” As a result of the merger, the museum board plans to put together a cadre of volunteers from the retired teachers association and other members of the community. “There are other members of the community that are very well versed in museums,” Flores said. “We’re gonna invite all these people to help us out to become a part of that cadre of volunteers that will make the commitment to be there on a daily basis and conducting these personal tours.”
COUNTY Continued from Page 1A age of $21 more than they did last year, Commissioner Jose E. Vela said. During the public hearing on the budget, department heads lined up to voice their needs and to plead with the Commissioners Court to prevent any extra budget cuts. After a few moments of deliberation, commissioners made up a list of changes that would be voted on in the regular Commissioners Court meeting. “Everyone had priorities, so we included what we wanted to change,” Vela said. “I told commissioners we needed to delete the extra $50,000 from the appraisal district.” Other changes included reinstating two investigators to the county attorney’s office, adding Beto Mejia as bailiff, and adding $4,000 for supplies for Precinct 4 as requested by Commissioner Norberto Garza. Judge Rosalva Guerra asked to lower the farm-tomarket road tax rate by $300,000 and for other line item cuts. Commissioner Eddie Martinez asked to take salaries out of the museum budget, cut the regional jail budget by $300,000, and give the district attorney’s office only $50,000 instead of the $170,000 requested. Commissioner Gabriel Villarreal asked to reinstate the justice of the peace car allowance. Vela asked to keep bus drivers at $13.50 an hour, increase the Chamber of Commerce hotel-motel fund to $130,000, remove the Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, and hire a curator for the museum. All the changes were approved except the curator position Vela requested. “I respect the other commissioners’ point that we are in a budget crisis and we cannot afford to hire anyone else, but I offered to use some of my budget to hire a curator and they didn’t take advantage of it,” Vela said. “It was a slap in
The Commissioners Court voted 3-2 to merge the Chamber of Commerce with the Zapata County Museum of History and to use the same staff to serve both bodies. the face to the museum board to not approve something they requested. These are professional people in the education field that want to help the community and help our heritage.” The Commissioners Court voted 3-2 to merge the Chamber of Commerce with the Zapata County Museum of History and to use the same staff to serve both bodies. The museum board earlier voiced opposition to the idea. Those voting in favor included Martinez. Garza and Commissioner Gabriel Villarreal. Those voting no included Vela and Guerra. “We have spent a whole year, we have sacrificed our personal lives for this endeavor and just to see it joined with another entity with a mission so different from ours — its just so heartbreaking,” said Olga Flores, a member of the Zapata County Museum of History board of directors. According to museum board members, the opening of the museum has been delayed for several months pending the merger with the chamber and the installation of carpet and exhibits. In an earlier meeting, museum board president Hildegardo Flores estimated that it would only cost $4,000 to install the carpet. However, during their last meeting, the commissioners approved more than $7,000 to take care of both the carpet installation and to improve the building’s acoustics. The museum is expected to open in December, Flores said. Commissioners have said
the merger is for cost control. Commissioners also decided to reinforce the hiring freeze for county employees. “We needed to reinforce it more than anything because it was brought to my attention that it was not being followed,” Martinez said. Commissioners made it clear to everyone that jobs will only be filled by replacements and that new positions will not be created. Water plant director Carlos Treviño Jr. asked the county to buy a 2011 Ford F-150 pickup and a 2006 Ford F-150. Vela moved to deny the request and he was seconded immediately by Garza. The agenda item was denied on a 5-0 vote. According to Vela, commissioners faced criticism for buying vehicles for county departments despite the budget shortfall. “Here we are cutting as much as we can to finish the budget and we’re being requested for more vehicles,” Vela said. “We have to think about fuel and insurance. It’s a big expense. I feel we need to cut as much as we can and they can get by with what they have.” Commissioners also denied the request made by Wastewater Supervisor Eloy Chapa to purchase a 2011 Ford F-150 for his department. The county has purchased about 10 new vehicles during 2010. “All we need is to keep better maintenance on them and make them last another year,” Vela added.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2010
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The Lady Merlin seventh graders also had their share of medal winners, including Norma Ramirez (third), Alexa Alvarez (fourth), Raquel Almaguer (sixth), Andrea Garza (eighth) and Janie Guzman (13th).
Top ten Hawks off to running start with early performances By CLARA SANDOVAL ZAPATA TIMES
The new bi-weekly state high school cross country poll was released late last week and once again the Zapata High boys and girls programs were both voted by the 3A coaches in the state as two of the top ten teams. The Lady Hawks are ranked fifth in the state, the same as the preseason rankings from two weeks ago. The top three teams in the state girls’ poll are Lucas Lovejoy, Argyle, La Feria and Decatur. After a week off from competition, the girls were again taking to the course, this time the Falfurrias Invitational held at
the municipal golf course. The Lady Merlins took the course for the first time this year and ran very well despite only a few weeks of practice. The eighth grade girls took second place honors behind La Grulla Middle and the seventh grade girls captured the team title. Individually, the eighth grade girls landed several in the medal count: Alexandra Garcia (third), Evelin Huerta (fourth), Nadya Mercado (13th), Maria Rodriguez (14th), Brianna Gonzalez (15th), Gabrielle Garcia (16th) and Jazmin Velasquez (17th).
See HAWKS XC PAGE 2B
Photo by Rob Carr | AP
Dallas Cowboys coach Wade Phillips reacts to an officials call against the Washington Redskins during the second half, Sunday, in Landover, Md.
JONES BACKS WADE Owner confident in coaching staff By JAIME ARON ASSOCIATED PRESS
IRVING — Cowboys owner Jerry Jones still believes in the partnership of Wade Phillips as head coach and Jason Garrett as offensive coordinator, even if they flubbed a critical play in the
season-opening loss at Washington. It was a mistake, Jones said Thursday, and they’re going to happen. “In 22 years, I’ve seen what’s perceived as some of the best we’ve had make mistakes,” Jones said.
MLB
See COWBOYS PAGE 2B
NFL
Rangers rally to new symbols
Texans may have found their man By CHRIS DUNCAN ASSOCIATED PRESS
By STEPHEN HAWKINS ASSOCIATED PRESS Photo by Tony Gutierrez | AP
ARLINGTON — There are antlers on broomsticks. There are the T-shirts worn by Texas Rangers players and fans featuring a claw on the front and the head of a deer whose antlers are formed by a pair of spread-open hands on the back. And there is the head of a 10point buck mounted over AL MVP candidate Josh Hamilton’s locker in the clubhouse. All are part of an unlikely “Claw and Antlers” craze that has become part of the playoff chase for the AL West-leading Rangers. “It’s one small thing that we do that kind of builds some
Jones’ defense included a reminder that Dallas has won division titles in two of the three years the coaching staff has been structured this way. However, the fact questions are being asked about the arrangement — after a
In this Sept. 14, 2010, file photo, a fan wears a hard hat with deer antlers attached to it as he sits amongst others looking on at a baseball game between the Detroit Tigers and Texas Rangers in Arlington,. camaraderie,” Rangers veteran Michael Young said. “It started early and we’ve been doing it ever since.” When Nelson Cruz slid into second base just ahead of a tag Wednesday night for a double, he had the customary fist pump when the umpire signaled him safe. Cruz then looked toward the dugout with a smile and flashed a “claw” over his head, a quick hand gesture with curled fingers in response to the same
from his teammates. Then the slugger spread both hands open and held one on each side of his head to form “antlers.” The claw symbolizes a good play. The antlers represent speed (think “run like a deer,” a phrase used often by Hamilton and Cruz over the last couple of years when they talked about fast players or hustling plays.) Utility infielder Esteban German was familiar with the claw
See RANGERS PAGE 2B
HOUSTON — Meet Arian Foster, the NFL’s newest overnight success. An undrafted rookie a year ago, he grabbed the spotlight last weekend when he ran for 231 yards and three touchdowns in the Houston Texans’ 34-24 eyeopening win over Indianapolis. His rushing total was a franchise record and the second highest on the NFL’s first weekend since 1933. If Foster has found a home with Houston, it’s taken him some time. But the second-year player is all about journeys and becoming a starting running back for an NFL team has been worth the wait — and the effort. “I understand that it’s rare in this league to go undrafted and perform at the level that I did,” Foster said. “What people don’t understand is that it didn’t just happen. I worked day and night at my craft. “I have a plan in everything that I do,” he said. “I don’t think
anything will just happen. The universe will throw somebody a bone every now and then, and you win the lottery. But for the most part, you get in this life what you put in.” If that doesn’t sound like your typical professional athlete quote, you’re right. Foster is not your typical athlete. He studied philosophy at Tennessee, where he finished his four-year career as the school’s second all-time rusher. His name means “water bearer, holder of knowledge,” he’s written poetry since childhood and has a fascination for foreign cultures. Each time he scored against the Colts, Foster clasped his hands palm-to-palm and bowed to the cheering fans. The gesture, like most things in Foster’s life, carried a symbolic meaning. “I feel like every running back should have their own little stamp on the game,” Foster said. “Mine kind of stems from just the core of what I believe. It’s a Hindu greeting, and it just
See TEXANS PAGE 2B
PAGE 2B
Zscores Vick to get first start ASSOCIATED PRESS
PHILADELPHIA — Michael Vick has always appreciated the chance that the Philadelphia Eagles gave him to return to the NFL. Now, he’s getting an opportunity to return the favor. Vick will start at quarterback for the Eagles on Sunday against the Detroit Lions, the first time he’s been under center at the start of a game since his time with the Atlanta Falcons — long before the world learned about his cruel world of dogfighting. Eagles coach Andy Reid made it official Friday when he ruled quarterback Kevin Kolb out for Sunday’s game with the concussion he suffered in their season-opening loss to the Green Bay Packers. Middle linebacker Stewart Bradley was also ruled out with a concussion. Reid said that both players passed the written part of the concussion test, but they had to see
Photo by Mel Evans | AP
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Michael Vick, right, scrambles downfield in the second half of a football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, in Philadelphia. Dr. William Welch to pass the next phase. That appointment was set for Friday. “We’ll see how that goes before we go any further,” Reid said. Meanwhile, the Eagles head to Detroit looking to even their record at 1-1. And starting at quarter-
back will be Vick, who last started the final game of the 2006 season for the Falcons against, ironically enough, the Eagles. “It would be gratifying,” Vick said of leading the Eagles to a win. “This team took a chance on me when not many others would.”
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2010
HAWKS XC Continued from Page 1B The seventh graders also had their share of medal winners, including Norma Ramirez (third), Alexa Alvarez (fourth), Raquel Almaguer (sixth), Andrea Garza (eighth) and Janie Guzman (13th). The varsity Lady Hawks had their hands full as they battled with powerhouse Calallen. Top runners for the Lady Hawks were freshmen Jazmine Garcia and senior Marlena Garcia fought it out with the eventual champion from Calallen, pushing both girls to second and third place finishes respectively, as well as lowering their season’s best times. Also receiving medals were newcomer Cassie Pena (15th), Erica Hernandez (16th) and Gloria Jauregui (17th). Calallen also had their hands on the JV team championship as it nipped out Zapata’s JV team by just a few points.
The seventh graders also had their share of medal winners, including Norma Ramirez (third), Alexa Alvarez (fourth), Raquel Almaguer (sixth), Andrea Garza (eighth) and Janie Guzman (13th). Wendy Medina brought home the top individual honors with a come-frombehind victory. This was the second year Medina captured the individual title at this meet. Danielle Garcia was a medal winner with a solid sixth place finish. The freshmen girls were determined not to go home empty handed and took home the team championship trophy placing three girls in the top 5. Clarissa Villarreal ran
her way to the individual title as Medina did in the JV race. Sara Pena (third), Joyce Garcia (fifth), Norma Cepeda (seventh), Alma Perez (eighth) and Bianca Espinosa rounded out the rest of the team. The girls will next compete at the coveted UTSA Ricardo Romo Invitational, where they will jump up a classification to compete against some of the best 4A schools from central and south Texas.
RANGERS Continued from Page 1B COWBOYS Continued from Page 1B mere 0-1 start — is a reminder that the pairing of Phillips and Garrett is a forced marriage that’s constantly being scrutinized. Jones hired the offensive coordinator days before picking the head coach. Garrett makes $3 million per season, among the most of any assistant in the NFL. He carries the title of assistant head coach and is viewed as a head-coach-inwaiting. Phillips is under contract as head coach and defensive coordinator through next season. Asked whether Phillips has veto power over Garrett, Jones said, “He has more than that,” then emphasized the head coach is completely in charge on the sideline. “Wade can call anything he wants to out there, or stop any call,” Jones said. The play that triggered all this was a Hail Mary with 4 seconds left in the first half and Dallas trailing Washington 3-0. The pass had little chance of producing points, so it would’ve made more sense to take a knee. It ended up being a fumble that led to a touchdown for the Redskins, the only one they’d score in a 13-7 victory. Garrett initially called the play when the Cowboys were on the 46. After a penalty moved them back 10 yards, he didn’t change the play — and Phillips didn’t
either. “I don’t know if you can call it confusion as much as making a mistake,” Jones said. “Certainly, Wade has the ability at any time to stop the music and make the call if he wants to make the call. We all logically know the consequences of that. That didn’t happen, so it’s what it is. I’m not concerned about it being some type of pattern.” Jones also said “it’s immaterial” which coach is more to blame. Jones later seemed to have a half-joking reference to Phillips and Garrett each saying it was their fault when he said, “I’m not trying to be another one of these guys who throws myself under the bus around here.” Jones added that immediately after the game, Phillips told him, “Man, I should have overruled the call.” The owner-general manager addressed other topics, too, such as: — His confidence in Garrett’s offense after Dallas gained 380 yards but scored only one touchdown, continuing a problem from last season. “I like the potential that we have to correct that because we’re moving the ball. We’ve got parts of the field that we need to move the ball better in, because when you move it there you go into the end zone and get
points. ... I can clearly see that we have a chance to have a top offense for the reason that we have some playmakers. — His faith in David Buehler as a placekicker after seeing him miss his first career attempt from only 34 yards out. “I like his mental makeup under pressure. It will be there under pressure in my mind. I know how sound our guys think he is kicking right now, and all of that bodes well for us. ... I’d say there is a lot of rope.” — The ramifications of the loss to Washington: “I have never been a part of a team, Super Bowl or otherwise, that didn’t have its ebbs and flows during a season. It’s disappointing that one of our ebbs hit us in the very first game. That’s happened before in my 22 years here and we’ve gone on in many case to have a really good season. ... ’We’re going sweat it out by not having that win against a division opponent. From the standpoint of can we play better, and do I look at this team as one that has a chance to get on a roll and really be playing at a top level, I think we can. You’d like to put as many wins up as you possibly can. I think we can play much better as far as winning the ballgame. We did some things out there that would tell us you can play better.”
from the Dominican Winter League and initially tried to introduce it to the Rangers during spring training in 2009. It didn’t really catch on. “But this year I tried it again. Most of the guys knew me so when we did something good, we did it. And we continued to do it,” German said. “Now it’s at a point everybody kind of looks forward to doing it,” Young said. “Our team has always done something like this, but this thing is probably the one where the public has gotten to see it more often. ... Mostly it’s about us and trying to find a way to pull for our teammates.” Texas had its final off day of the regular season Thursday. The Rangers had a season-high 10-game lead in the AL West and their magic number was eight heading into a 10game trip against all of their division foes. With the Rangers having so much success this year in pursuit of their first division title since 1999, there have been plenty of opportunities to flash the claw. Then Cruz one day flashed the antlers instead of just saying “deer” like he had in the past. The claw and antlers became so prominent among Texas players early in the season that eventually a T-shirt was made for them. Then the fans caught on
“
Now it’s at a point everybody kind of looks forward to doing it,” MICHAEL YOUNG, RANGERS VETERAN
to what was happening. They started flashing the symbols along with the players and the T-shirts went public. When the Rangers wrapped up a three-game sweep of the New York Yankees last weekend, one fan was waving the traditional broom — with a set of antlers attached to it. “We’re a first-place team and gotten some publicity this year,” outfielder David Murphy said. “It’s just something that’s fun.” Even pitchers like C.J. Wilson have gotten into the act. After a spectacular defensive play in an earlier series against the Yankees, Wilson got up and quickly flashed the antlers, returning the gesture to teammates in the dugout. Wilson fielded a high chopper on the run and then dived into first base to get Derek Jeter, who had to hurdle over the pitcher to avoid stepping on him. “Any time a pitcher gets involved with something, you know it’s pretty
good,” catcher Matt Treanor said. “I think it’s just a real simple way that the guys on the bench can really show their appreciation to a guy while he’s out on the field. ... It’s just that immediate appreciation by showing that.” Whether for a base hit, a run-scoring play or a defensive gem since there’s not always that instant opportunity in baseball like in most other team sports to share a quick high-five or slap hands. Rangers manager Ron Washington started to notice the claw early in the season when Vladimir Guerrero and Elvis Andrus were going through incredible offensive stretches and kept flashing the sign. Then Hamilton started doing it. “They come up with this stuff,” said Washington, sporting one of the blue T-shirts given to him by his players. “It’s their game, it’s their fun. It makes them feel good about each other. ... Yeah, you’ve got to have fun. It’s a game. A tough game, but it’s a game.”
TEXANS Continued from Page 1B means, ’I see the God in you.’ It’s paying respect to the game of football.” This is all music to the ears of Texans coaches, who love having a strong running game to complement quarterback Matt Schaub and Pro Bowl receiver Andre Johnson. Foster grew up in Albuquerque, N.M., and set the NFL as his goal at an early age, despite his father’s opposition. Carl Foster played at New Mexico and tried out for the Denver Broncos in the early 1980s. The boys’ mother, Bernadette Sizemore, swayed Carl, and Arian began playing football when he was 7. He proudly told people that he would play in the NFL some day, but one of his teachers laughed him off and asked what else he wanted to do. Later, high school coaches told him that he wasn’t good enough to play running back, so they were moving him to the defensive side. “They told us he was never going to make it,” Carl Foster said. “We had just about had enough of that kind of talk.” Foster’s parents divorced, and Arian moved to San Diego with his father. Arian enrolled at Mission Bay High School and asked his
father to train him. Carl Foster said Arian ran about two miles a day on the beach, up and down dunes, and the regimen paid off. As a high school senior, Foster rushed for 2,093 rushing yards and 24 touchdowns. He had not only found his football niche, he was also more emotionally settled in San Diego. “I don’t know what the difference is, but when you tell people there what you want to do they will kind of look at you sideways — but they believe it more,” he said. “It wasn’t like I needed the consent, it just felt good when you have people behind you and I respect that.” Carl Foster said Arian chose Tennessee because he developed a close bond with former Vols’ assistant Trooper Taylor. Arian initially continued his success from San Diego in Knoxville, rushing for 223 yards in a game as a freshman and amassing 1,193 yards as a junior. The program was unraveling by 2008, with coach Phil Fulmer on his way out and presiding over a splintered staff. Foster, working with his third offensive coordinator in four years, rushed for only 570 yards
Photo by Dave Einsel | AP
In this file photo, Houston Texans’ Arian Foster (23) breaks away from the Indianapolis Colts defense for 42-yard gain during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, in Houston. and kept his mouth shut during his senior season. Coaches and the media said Foster had a bad attitude, but Carl Foster said his son was misunderstood. “There was no real true leadership down there,”
Carl Foster said. “Arian felt like the best thing he could do is get out of the way and just really just be to himself. The problem was, everybody else, including the media, saw this as a guy who was arrogant.” The rap seemed to stick
with Foster while he aimed toward the NFL. To make matters worse, he pulled a hamstring in the final practice before the Senior Bowl, couldn’t recover in time for the NFL combine and then performed poorly in a workout for pro scouts. He waited at his father’s home in Arizona for word that he’d been drafted. But the call never came, and Foster figured his boyhood dream was shattered. “I’ll be lying if I said that didn’t cross my mind,” Foster said. “I knew that if you didn’t get drafted, you didn’t get drafted and that was it.” His girlfriend, Romina, immediately went to the Internet and started sizing up NFL depth charts to see if Foster might still have a shot somewhere. The Texans, as it turned out, were interested in Foster and signed him in May 2009. He was relegated to the practice squad after training camp, another disappointment. Looking back now, Foster said that might’ve been the best fate he could’ve received. The condescending looks he got from veterans fueled Foster every day at practice and he was soon catching the coaches’ attention. Foster moved off the prac-
tice squad in November. He rushed for 97 yards in the second-to-last game against Miami, then ran for 119 yards in the season finale against New England. “Doing that practice squad stuff, he had to learn how to train our way,” running backs coach Chick Harris said. “All of that built up to where is today. It was no-nonsense about what he had to do, and he got it grooved in his head of what the coaching staff wanted. He’s living proof that if you do the right things, you can be successful.” Foster easily won the starting job in training camp this year, and already feels like a seasoned veteran after only two starts — and one spectacular game. “I think that stems from just knowing the game of football,” he said. “I like to think of myself as a cerebral player. I had different offensive coordinators in college and every time I learn a different offense, I like to learn the whole concept. “I like to learn the ’why’ I was doing what I was doing instead of being a drone out there,” he said. “I think that slowed the game down eventually for me.”
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2010
THE ZAPATA TIMES 3B
HINTS BY | HELOISE DOVE’S FLIGHT ENDS WITH FAMILY Dear Heloise: On my daughter’s 12th birthday, a WHITE DOVE flew into our upstairs window and was injured. After nursing the dove back to health, I contacted the Fort Worth (Texas) Nature Center to inquire if it would be OK to release the bird back into the wild. I was told that the dove could not survive in the wild and that it probably was released at a wedding. They are not wild creatures. It would be like releasing a canary! The dove, Snow White, became a part of our family and, per my daughter, her 12th birthday present from God. Well, that daughter is now 29, and Snow White is still going strong at 17 years that we know of ! Owning a pet bird is a commitment of your love and time for many years. -- Susan D., Fort Worth, Texas A beautiful story with a happy ending! I would love to hear more. -- Heloise PET PAL Dear Readers: Cathy Hardiek of Dixon, Ill., sent a photo of her gray-andwhite cat, Toby, sitting in a baby swing. Cathy says: “Toby was an older pet when we adopted him. He brought much joy and laughter to our home and was so full of love. His fa-
“
HELOISE
vorite pastime was sitting in the baby swing, swinging and playing with his toys.” We called Cathy to see how Toby was doing, since she said he was an older pet when adopted. We were sorry to learn that he has gone to kitty heaven. But Cathy said she would be so pleased to see Toby featured as the Pet of the Week. She also mentioned that Toby could actually swing the baby swing himself and would just swing and swing. To see Toby in “his” swing, visit www.Heloise.com. -- Heloise WATER, ANYONE? Dear Heloise: I live in the South and have a central air-conditioning unit. I placed a large plastic bowl under the drain where the condensation drips out from the AC unit. The bowl fills up, and the water is always cool for our wild animal friends. Every so often, I do have to dump the bowl to get the grass and leaves out, but there is always a fresh supply of water for the cats, raccoons and possums that live in the neighborhood. -- Mary R., via e-mail
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Sports
4B THE ZAPATA TIMES
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2010
Photo by David J. Phillip | AP
Texas A&M quarterback Jerrod Johnson (1) rushes for a first down against Louisiana Tech during the first quarter of a college football game Sept. 11, in College Station.
Ags continue to fine tune offense By KRISTIE RIEKEN ASSOCIATED PRESS Photo by Tom Reel | San Antonio Express-News
In this Nov. 1, 2008, file photo, Texas Tech receiver Michael Crabtree steps into the end zone for the game-winning touchdown as Texas defender Curtis Brown trails the play in Lubbock. Texas returns to Lubbock today in the Big 12 opener for both teams.
Tech hopes for 08’ encore By BETSY BLANEY ASSOCIATED PRESS
LUBBOCK — Tommy Tuberville would love to give Texas Tech fans what they savored when Texas last came to town: bragging rights. “There’s some games you have at every school that your fans have a passion about,” said Tuberville, who will coach his first Big 12 game Saturday night against the No. 6 Longhorns. “When I was in all those rival games at Auburn, at Ole Miss, at Miami, that’s what you feel like: Do this, and your fans have the opportunity to be able to strut a little bit.” Texas, naturally, has other plans for the Big 12 opener for both teams. And this week has includ-
ed a lot of chatter about that last visit back in 2008 when the Red Raiders stunned the top-ranked Longhorns 39-33 on a final-second touchdown pass to Michael Crabtree. This time around, the Longhorns secondary is more experienced and should be ready for the Red Raiders’ pass-heavy offense, while a revamped and more complex Texas Tech defense deals with a ’Horns offense that’s running more than passing. Texas safety Scott Christian said interceptions have been a hot conversation topic lately. “We feel turnovers will be key in a game like this,” he said. Texas Tech receivers know what they’re in for, said Austin Zouzalik, who’s caught one of Taylor
Potts’ seven TD passes this season. Potts and his teammates rank 11th in passing offense (334.5 yards per game). “It’s well known all over the country that they are an athletic bunch, a wellcoached bunch,” Zouzalik said of the Longhorns. “They are always fast, and they are always fundamentally sound. We aren’t going to get away with as much with sloppy routes.” It will be the first meeting for Mack Brown and Tuberville as head coaches. In the 1991 Cotton Bowl, Tuberville coached the Miami defense and the Hurricanes beat the Longhorns 46-3. Three years later and with Tuberville in the same job at Texas A&M, the Aggies beat Texas 34-10 in a Southwest Conference clash.
Brown is concerned about penalties (averaging 55 yards a game) and a dearth of turnovers. The Longhorns (2-0) have gotten only one fumble and one interception. They’ll be facing Potts, who has not thrown an interception this year. “We need to stay on the field offensively,” said Brown, who is 3-3 in six trips to Lubbock. And Texas wants to get on the scoreboard sooner. “We’ve only scored three points in the first quarter of the first two games,” Brown said. “We’ve scored 41 points in the second quarter.” A win over a “very good” Texas team likely jump Texas Tech into the Top 25, said Tuberville, though he thinks his team is already there.
COLLEGE STATION — Texas A&M is a long way from where it wants to be even after cruising through its first two nonconference games. Coach Mike Sherman is actually glad his team isn’t one of the several Big 12 teams starting league play this week. The Aggies get one final tuneup against Florida International on Saturday to prepare for the start of their conference schedule Sept. 30 at Oklahoma State. “I think we need it,” Sherman said. “We’re still a very young football team and I think it helps us get ready for conference to have three games under our belt.” The Aggies have won their first two games by a combined 96-23, but have had plenty of errors they need to clean up. Texas A&M fumbled five times against Louisiana Tech and lost four of them. Quarterback Jerrod Johnson, who is sixth in
the nation with more than 335 yards passing a game, believes his offense improved from the first game to the second but wants more from the group. “I want us to be fluid in a sense that we score every time we have it,” he said. “I want no turnovers and just lots of positive plays, and a series of those. Not just three good plays and three bad plays. I think we’re capable of doing that and I think we’re close to getting there.” Texas A&M (2-0) is also looking for kicker Randy Bullock to improve after he missed a 24-yard field goal attempt in the first game and one from 35 yards last week. “It’s like playing golf. A lot of it is mental,” Sherman said. “Randy Bullock nails them in practice every single time. He’s plenty strong enough and good enough. The game changes when you put people in there and people on the field. You do have to handle them a little different.”