The Zapata Times 8/27/2011

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SATURDAY AUGUST 27, 2011

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FATAL ACCIDENT

LAW ENFORCEMENT

Laredo women die in wreck

Sheriff to step down

Mom, daughter recalled as devout

‘Sigi’ announces no more runs for county’s top law spot

By CÉSAR G. RODRIGUEZ THE ZAPATA TIMES

If a term should be added to define commitment, then Zapata County Sheriff Sigifredo “Sigi” Gonzalez Jr.’s name should be added to that list.

SHERIFF SIGIFREDO “SIGI” GONZALEZ JR.: Announces he will not run for Sheriff again.

With 35 years in law enforcement starting when he complet-

ed the regional police academy in Laredo in August 1976, Gonzalez decided on Wednesday to not seek another term as sheriff.

Gonzalez has served as sheriff of Zapata County since July 24, 1994, when he was appointed

by the Zapata County Commissioners Court. His term ends Dec. 31, 2012.

Gonzalez began his law enforcement career in 1976. He became a deputy when he was 20

See SHERIFF PAGE 8A

By CÉSAR G. RODRIGUEZ THE ZAPATA TIMES

A mother and daughter from Laredo known for their love of and service to God died Monday afternoon in an automobile wreck after returning from a relative’s wedding. A third male victim was reported in stable condition.

Texas Department of Public Safety officials say the wreck, which occurred south of Zapata, remains under investigation. Authorities identified the women as Marycarmen Alcala, 54, and Carmen Esmeralda Alcala, 19. DPS officials say Rafael Alcala, the husband and father, was the driver of the Nissan Altima in which the family members were riding.

Law officers and first responders received a call at 3:16 p.m. Monday reporting a collision on U.S. 83, approximately 10 miles north of Zapata. Sgt. Tony Salas, DPS spokesman, said the driver of a 2010 Nissan Altima was driving north on U.S. 83.

The driver, later identified as Rafael, attempted to pass when it was unsafe and collided with an 18-wheeler in the southbound lane of U.S. 83.

The Alcalas were coming back from Rafael and Marycarmen’s son’s wedding in Mexico, friends of the family say. Game Warden Sam Padgett said he heard on the radio about a possible accident and rushed to the scene to provide assistance.

Padgett said the vehicle was destroyed and added that the impact must have been hard enough to send the vehicle’s motor about 40 to 50 feet onto private property.

A game warden began performing CPR and chest compressions one of the women.

Zapata County Fire Department paramedics took her to a Starr County hospital, where she was pronounced dead. Officials later identified her as Carmen Esmeralda.

“I wish we could’ve done more for the female,” Padgett said.

Zapata County Fire Chief J.J. Meza said paramedics found Marycarmen dead at the scene. Crews aided Rafael and rushed him to the Laredo Medical Center.

First responders say the tractor-trailer driver was not injured. He attempted to avoid

See WRECK PAGE 10A

READING IN THE CLASSROOM

Photo by Danny Zaragoza | The Zapata Times

Students in Vicky Garza’s third grade class gather around Garza as they bring her books to read to them Thursday morning at Villarreal Elementary School.

OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY

Invention can help find buried piplines

By VALERIE GODINES FITZGERALD THE ZAPATA TIMES

ZAPATA — As a production superintendent in the oil and gas industry for years, Mario Garza of Zapata knows quite well the dangers that undiscovered pipelines can pose.

“We would think there was only one line and dig in there and there were two or three lines in there and we wouldn’t know.

Who do these lines belong to?

Nobody would claim them. There is a line here and another one there. Lines get overlooked.

There are lines that have been

abandoned and still there and people get hurt,” Garza said.

“I have seen some near misses but, thank God, no fatalities. But they burned up brand new equipment when they hit the line and the guy had to run off from the tractor.”

Garza and his wife, Amada,

have launched a business, SureFind Pipeline Markers, LLC, that they believe will protect companies and the public from potential disasters.

They say their markers, made of eco-friendly and durable high

See INVENTION PAGE 8A

PAGE 2A

Zin brief CALENDAR

SATURDAY, AUGUST 27, 2011

AROUND TEXAS

TODAY IN HISTORY

SATURDAY, SEPT. 3

ASSOCIATED PRESS

A book sale will be held in the Widener Room of the First United Methodist Church, 1220 McClelland Ave., from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The public is invited, and admission is free.

Donated books and magazines are accepted. Call 722-1674 for more information.

MONDAY, SEPT. 5 The Bola Blanca Chamber Classic, a golf tournament, is from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. today at the Laredo Country Club, 1415 Country Club Drive.

For more information, call the Laredo Chamber of Commerce at 956-7229895.

This Labor Day weekend, the Laredo Chamber of Commerce will be hosting “one of South Texas best golf tournaments” today from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Laredo Country Club! Call the Laredo Chamber of Commerce at 722-9895 for information.

Photo by Michael Thomas | AP

TUESDAY, SEPT. 6

Carrah Roy and her son Charlie hold an autographed campaign sign for Republican presidential hopeful Gov. Rick Perry after a “Welcome Home Rally” in Austin on Aug. 20. Perry recently signed a pledge to sponsor a constitutional amendment against gay marriage if elected president.

Les Amis will have its monthly luncheon at 11:30 a.m. at the Holiday Inn at 800 Garden St. Honorees are Viola Garcia, Lydia Linares, Frances Madison and Olga Hovel. Hostesses are Oralia Laurel, Leonor (Noni) Daves and Mary Perez.

Gay marriage reversal

FRIDAY, SEPT. 16 The Laredo Energy Arena, 6700 Arena Blvd., will host the Shrine Circus’ six performances today through Sunday. Coupons are available at www.2011circus.com, in publications and locations throughout the community. General admission is $9 first come, first served, for today’s 7:30 p.m. show and Saturday’s 11 a.m. show, at the box office during regular business hours no later than Thursday.

Show times are 7:30 p.m. today; 11 a.m., 4:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. Sunday.

Tickets are $14/child general admission, $20/adult general admission and $27 VIP floor seating. For more information on Alzafar Shrine, visit www.alzafar.org.

SATURDAY, SEPT. 18 The first day of the two-day South Texas Archery Shootout takes place today. This will be a 3D pop-up tournament. For more information or to register, call Gil Gamez at 512-4264255.

SUNDAY, SEPT. 19 The second day of the two-day South Texas Archery Shootout takes place today. This will be a 3D pop-up tournament. For more information or to register, call Gil Gamez at 512-4264255.

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 21 The 18th Annual Logistics and Manufacturing Association’s Symposium will take place today, tomorrow and Friday at Texas A&M International University. The theme, “Mexico’s Top Manufacturing and Consuming Regions Utilizing Port Laredo,” will focus on the ability for transportation and communications infrastructure, port and border administration, market access, and the overall business environment to govern a port’s ability to become a leader in facilitating global supply chains. For more information, contact Joseph Mendiola at info@ldfonline.org.

By WILL WEISSERT ASSOCIATED PRESS

AUSTIN — Rick Perry has signed a pledge to back a federal constitutional amendment against gay marriage — a reversal from a month ago when the Texas governor said he so supported individual states’ rights that he was fine with New York’s approval of samesex marriage.

The pledge by the National Organization for Marriage states that, if elected, Perry will send a constitutional amendment defining marriage as the union of one man and one woman to the states for ratification, and appoint U.S. Supreme Court and federal judges who will “reject the idea our Founding Fathers inserted a right to gay marriage into our Constitution.”

Others vying for the Republican presidential nomination, including Michelle Bach-

mann, Mitt Romney and Rick Santorum, have also signed it, according to Brian Brown, president of Washington-based National Organization for Marriage.

Perry’s decision raised some eyebrows because it appears to contradict his previous position that this is an issue that should be left up to individual legislatures.

Perry won applause at a Republican conference in Colorado on July 22 when he said of New York’s same-sex marriage law, “that’s New York, and that’s their business, and that’s fine with me.”

Those comments alarmed some conservatives, however, and Perry moved to soothe fears the following week when he said during a broadcast interview with Tony Perkins of the conservative Family Research Council, “I probably needed to add a few words after that ‘It’s fine with me.’”

Church volunteer gets 10 Feds audit Texas’ Medicaid years in child porn case spending for braces FORT WORTH — A 27-yearold North Texas man who did volunteer work with children at a church has been sentenced to 10 years in federal prison on a child pornography charge.

Prosecutors say Derek M. Ripley of Fort Worth was sentenced Friday on one count of distributing child pornography.

He also was ordered to be under supervised release for life. He pleaded guilty in May.

Texas Supreme Court upholds $5 strip club fee AUSTIN — A $5 entrance fee to strip clubs is constitutional and not an improper restriction on nude dancing, the Texas Supreme Court ruled Friday.

Lower courts had called the so-called "pole tax" violation of the First Amendment.

The fee has been imposed on clubs that allow nude dancing and serve alcohol since 2007.

San Antonio gun store challenges ATF rule

DALLAS — Federal auditors are examining Medicaid charges for dental braces for Texas children amid a TV report that the state spent as much on orthodontic services last year as all 49 other U.S. states combined.

The Texas Department of Health and Human Services confirmed Friday that its pre-authorization process for orthodontic treatment is being audited by the federal health and human services agency.

SAN ANTONIO — A San Antonio gun shop is suing over a federal requirement that weapons dealers in four border states must report multiple sales of semi-automatic rifles.

The new requirement follows a 2009 law enforcement operation in Arizona known as "Fast and Furious" that’s been criticized for letting high-powered weapons flow into Mexico.

IRVING — Police say the death of a 2-year-old who was left in his family’s vehicle in a Dallas suburb appears to be a "tragic accident." Investigators say the boy had been left in a sport utility vehicle in Irving Thursday.

Officers found the boy in the back of the SUV. Police believe his death is heat-related.

of a polygamist sect member who argued that the 2008 raid on the Yearning for Zion ranch was unjust.

The 3rd District Court of Appeals on Friday denied the appeal of Michael Emack, a follower of polygamist leader Warren Jeffs.

— Compiled from AP reports

Polygamist’s appeal based on ’08 raid denied Police believe Texas boy’s AUSTIN — A state appeals car death accidental court has upheld the conviction

FRIDAY, OCT 7 The first day of the three-day Bass Champs tournament takes place today. For more information or to register, call 817-439-3274 or check the website at www.basschamps.com.

SATURDAY, OCT. 8 The first day of the three-day Bass Champs tournament takes place today. For more information or to register, call 817-439-3274 or check the website at www.basschamps.com.

SUNDAY, OCT. 9 The first day of the three-day Bass Champs tournament takes place today. For more information or to register, call 817-439-3274 or check the website at www.basschamps.com.

FRIDAY, OCT. 28 The first day of the three-day 2011 Pro/Am Event sponsored by the Couples Association of Sport Tournaments fishing tournament takes place today. For more information or to register, call 281-796-7486 or check the website at www.fishcast.com.

AROUND THE NATION Poll: GOP voters feeling better about prez choices WASHINGTON — Republicans party elders are still grousing about the GOP choices for president — but the voters who will choose the nominee are growing more satisfied with the possibilities with Texas Gov. Rick Perry now in the race.

An Associated Press-GfK poll released Friday found that Republicans and Republican-leaning independents are coming around to the choices already on the table: About two-thirds are pleased with the party’s presidential field, compared with just half in June.

Hurricane Irene to deliver blow to economy NEW YORK — As Hurricane Irene roars toward the East Coast, home to some of the country’s most densely populated cities and costliest waterfront real

Today is Saturday, Aug. 27, the 239th day of 2011. There are 126 days left in the year.

Today’s Highlight in History: On Aug. 27, 1883, the island volcano Krakatoa blew up; the resulting tidal waves in Indonesia’s Sunda Strait claimed some 36,000 lives in Java and Sumatra.

On this date: In 1776, the Battle of Long Island began during the Revolutionary War as British troops attacked American forces, who ended up being forced to retreat two days later.

In 1859, Edwin L. Drake drilled the first successful oil well in the United States, at Titusville, Pa. In 1908, Lyndon Baines Johnson, the 36th president of the United States, was born near Stonewall, Texas.

In 1928, the Kellogg-Briand Pact was signed in Paris, outlawing war and providing for the peaceful settlement of disputes.

In 1939, the first turbojetpowered aircraft, the Heinkel He 178, went on its first fullfledged test flight over Germany.

In 1949, a violent white mob prevented an outdoor concert headlined by Paul Robeson from taking place near Peekskill, N.Y. (The concert was held eight days later.)

In 1957, the USS Swordfish, the second Skate Class nuclear submarine, was launched from the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in Maine.

In 1962, the United States launched the Mariner 2 space probe, which flew past Venus in Dec. 1962.

In 1979, British war hero Lord Louis Mountbatten and three other people, including his 14-year-old grandson Nicholas, were killed off the coast of Ireland in a boat explosion claimed by the Irish Republican Army.

In 1989, the first U.S. commercial satellite rocket was launched from Cape Canaveral, Fla. — a Delta booster carrying a British communications satellite, the Marcopolo 1.

Ten years ago: Israeli helicopters fired a pair of rockets through office windows and killed senior PLO leader Mustafa Zibri. Peru’s Congress voted to lift the constitutional immunity of former President Alberto Fujimori, so that prosecutors could charge him with crimes against humanity. (Fujimori, who had fled to Japan, was extradited to Peru from Chile in 2007 and was later tried and convicted; he is serving a 25-year prison sentence.)

Today’s Birthdays: Cajuncountry singer Jimmy C. Newman is 84. Actor Tommy Sands is 74. Bluegrass singermusician J.D. Crowe is 74. Musician Daryl Dragon is 69. Actress Tuesday Weld is 68. Rock singer-musician Tim Bogert is 67. Ex-porn star Harry Reems is 64. Actor Paul Reubens is 59. Rock musician Glen Matlock (The Sex Pistols) is 55.

Gospel singer Yolanda Adams is 49. Actor Shaun Weiss is 32.

Actor Kyle Lowder is 31. Singer Mario is 25. Actress Alexa Vega (“Spy Kids”) is 23.

Thought for Today: “Genuine tragedies in the world are not conflicts between right and wrong. They are conflicts between two rights.” — Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel, German philosopher (born this date in 1770, died 1831).

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In this photo taken Thursday, a tractor goes by the 125-foot by 65-foot American flag flying on the first day of the Half Century of Progress Show in Rantoul, Ill. The show features exhibits of vintage farm equipment. estate, experts are forecasting a multibillion-dollar disaster.

The economic impact of the hurricane largely will depend on factors that include the storm’s size, where it makes landfall, and the speed at which it’s moving when it hits the coast. But ex-

perts already are forecasting billions of dollars in losses.

“It’s probably going to be very damaging,” said Roger Pielke, a fellow of the Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences.

— Compiled from AP reports

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

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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, AUGUST 27, 2011

Zlocal

PAGE 3A

Sewer lines near for Flores II

By MIKE HERRERA IV THE ZAPATA TIMES

Though it’s been around for nearly 20 years, the Flores II subdivision lacked one thing: sewer lines.

However, that is soon to be remedied by a $323,655 grant by the Texas Department of Rural Affairs. Intended for the betterment of infrastructure and living conditions, the grant is specifically targeted towards first-time sewage service, according to the office of State Rep. Ryan Guillen, who helped secure the funds.

“It’s essential that improvements like these are made to areas where development was incomplete and residents face health and safety challenges due to inadequate sewer services,” Guillen says in the release.

While the Zapata County Health Center reports no recent illnesses related to septic tanks, a common situation for residences without sewage, the 2,370 linear feet of sewage line should address not only health, but environmental concerns,

according to County Commissioner Jose E. Vela.

“It could have been an environmental issue because we’re so close to the lake,” said Vela, who represents Precinct 1, which includes the Flores subdivision. “If we don’t’ take care of sewer system, it could go into the lake.”

Vela recalled that the Zapata County Commissioners’ Court applied for the grant in June, and believes the award will soon be put to good use.

“Hopefully by October, November we start the bidding process for the contract,” he said.

Even more fortunately, Flores II’s location on a hill will likely aid the project because gravity reduces the need for lift stations.

“The connections will have gravity flow. No need for lift stations, which cause problems when they don’t work properly because the sewer starts piling up and that causes spills,” Vela said.

Whereas the project holds the promise for environmental peace of mind, Eduardo Villarreal thinks

it will bring Zapatans back to their roots.

“Many people, especially born before the oil wells came in ’79, had to leave for jobs,” said Villarreal, a born Zapatan who operates the Celebration Shopp, the only small business in Flores II. The son of a cattle raiser, Villarreal witnessed this exodus first hand.

“I had six brothers and sisters, and the cattle industry wasn’t big enough for all of them,” he said. “Like a lot of people born in Zapata, so most had to leave.

This happened to a lot of people born in Zapata.

Many leave to the military.”

For Villarreal, this trend provides the impetus to further develop Flores II beyond basic sewage. He offered a plot of his own land for the subdivision’s use.

“I want a public park built on the land, something positive to add to this community,” he said.

Villarreal is not alone in hoping Flores II becomes a retirement community of sorts. The sentiment was echoed in Laredo.

“I’ve got three or four

more years in Laredo,” said Jesse Porras, a retired student counselor and current board member for Laredo Community College. “Once my commitment is up, I really would like to go back to Zapata.”

Porras currently owns land in Flores II and welcomed the news of the sewage lines.

“It’s an improvement. It really will make more people develop that area,” he said.

Zapata Chamber of Commerce President Jose F. “Paco” Mendoza also found merit in the idea.

“Zapata has always been very popular for retirees, winter Texans. Many have relocated permanently,” he said.

Although the chamber doesn’t yet keep data on retirees, Mendoza said the agreeable climate, low tax rates and small community feel make it attractive for retirees, something that can only be enhanced should Flores II develop.

“If it was to be developed to attract retirees, that would be excellent,” he said.

Rodeo arena to host Shrine Circus SPECIAL TO THE TIMES

The Zapata County Rodeo Arena will roar to life Friday, Sept. 16, through Sunday, Sept. 18, with tantalizing tigers, enchanting elephants, and dramatic daredevils as the legendary Shrine Circus rolls into Zapata for one day with two performances. Performers from 15 countries will dazzle circus fans with new feats in the biggest and best Shrine Circus ever.

The Shriners are pleased to offer affordable family en-

tertainment, and buy one, get one coupons are available at www.2011circus.com in publications and locations throughout the community. Tickets are $12 (for children 12 and under) and $16 for adults. More details on show times and tickets are available at the website.

Tickets may be purchased at the venue one hour prior to showtime. Shows on the 30th are at 4:30 and 7:00 pm.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of George Carden in the circus. Carden, a circus legend, has partnered

with the Shriners for five decades to raise money for worthy causes. Each year, Carden scours the globe to bring spectacular international talent to his Shrine Circus shows.

“I’ve watched generations of Texans grow up at the circus,” says Carden.

Michelle Audrey will act as emcee on behalf of the Alzafar Shrine Circus.

“This is a show that is all about family fun and creating memories. I have the best job in the world,” Audrey said.

Bo the Elephant performs amazing tricks with his bevy of pachyderms under the celebrated direction of trainer Larry Carden.

Bruno Blaszac’s Bengal Tigers are roaring back to Texas with an adrenalinefueled opening act.

The circus has added all new performances from across the globe, many of which have never been seen in North America before.

Acrobats, daredevils, and, as always, Shrine clowns will be part of the Alzafar Shrine show.

College announces registration plans

By ROGER SANCHEZ JR. SPECIAL TO THE TIMES

There is still time to register for the fall semester at Laredo Community College.

Late registration will run Monday through Thursday, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Friday from 8 a.m. to noon at both campuses for new and returning students.

A $10 late registration fee will be assessed.

Registration will only be made available in person.

New students First-time students and those who are undecided about their majors can be advised inside the Kazen College Center, room 121, at the Fort McIntosh Campus, or at the South Campus’ Billy Hall Student Center, room 116, on Monday or Tuesday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Students also can get advised on Wednesday, and Thursday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. or Friday, 8 a.m. to noon at either campus’ Student Success Center.

Registration will be conducted in person inside the Enrollment and Registration Services Center at the South Campus’ Billy Hall Student Center or at the Fort McIntosh Campus, Memorial Hall, room 125.

Current students Current and returning students with declared majors can be advised in the department offices of their majors on Monday or Tuesday from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., or on Wednesday and Thursday from 8 a.m.

to 7 p.m. and Friday, 8 a.m. to noon at either campus’ Student Success Center.

Payment Students who register on Monday or Tuesday have until Tuesday to pay for their classes, either in person at either campus’ bursar’s office by 7 p.m. or online by 11 p.m. using a credit or debit card through PASPort, LCC’s Personnel and Student Portal, by visiting the college’s website at www.laredo.edu and clicking on the PASPort logo.

Those who register on Wednesday or Thursday must pay at the end of each day of registration, either in person by 7 p.m. or online by 11 p.m., and Friday by noon inside the Bursar’s Office at either campus or online by 11 p.m.

Bookstore hours Hours for the Fort McIntosh and South campuses will be open from Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Friday from 8 a.m. to noon.

The Fort McIntosh Campus’ bookstore will resume regular business hours on Sept. 5 and will be open Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Fridays from 8 a.m. to noon. Extended hours will be at the South Campus’ bookstore Monday through Thursday, Sept.

5-8, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and will be closed on Friday.

The bookstore will resume regular business hours on Sept. 12 and will be open Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

PAGE 4A

Zopinion

SATURDAY, AUGUST 27, 2011

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

COLUMN

OTHER VIEWS

Business cool again due to Steve Jobs

By VIRGINIA POSTREL BLOOMBERG NEWS

T

o understand the cultural significance of Steve Jobs, you have to go back in time: to before the iPad or iPhone or iTunes, before Apple Inc.’s comeback products made candy-colored plastics and iAnything cool, before Jobs got kicked out of Apple, even before the Macintosh hurled a sledgehammer at Big Brother.

It’s 1981. Most people have never heard of Silicon Valley. The country’s most famous businessman is Lee Iacocca, the head of Chrysler Corp.

He’s famous because in 1979 he engineered a government bailout — loan guarantees — that saved the company. He’s also famous because, unlike his peers, Iacocca is colorful.

He seems to believe in what he’s doing.

In 1981, business executives aren’t known for either personality or passion. The general public sees business as a boring, impersonal, possibly suspect activity. Its significance seems purely financial.

Businessmen, Tom Wolfe tells the Wall Street Journal, no longer have the conviction that what they’re doing is exciting and glamorous, which is, I guess, another way of saying intrinsically worthwhile.

That was all about to change.

In the 1980s, entrepreneurs became heroes, celebrities and role models.

The Apple whiz kids, Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak, were the new face of business.

Money was, of course, part of the appeal — millionaires in their 20s! — but there was much more to it than that. The aspirations for pleasure and self-expression that the sociologist Daniel Bell had condemned as the cultural contradictions of capitalism turned out to be its fuel.

It’s a neat way to play, said Dave House, who was the manager of Intel Corp.’s microprocessor division in 1982 when he posed for a magazine in a hot tub with his girlfriend, apparently naked.

House wasn’t talking about his hot-tub frolics.

He was explaining why he kept working once he had more money than he knew what to do with.

In the 1980s, business became a realm of passion and personality and, above all, surprises. Big changes could come from anywhere — from backwaters such as Bentonville, Ark., and Memphis, Tenn., and Portland Ore..

Or, of course, Cupertino, Calif., and Redmond, Wash. The ethos of Silicon Valley became, if not

workaday reality, then the cultural norm.

Apple was about as pure of a Silicon Valley company as you could imagine, Jobs said in an interview with Newsweek after he was fired in 1985.

If he had been born and raised in New York, we probably would never have heard of him. But Jobs grew up knowing about David Packard and Bill Hewlett starting a business in their garage.

When he was barely a teenager, he cold-called Hewlett, whose home number was listed in the phone book, and talked his way into a job at HP. Our role model was Hewlett-Packard, he said in 1985. Apple just grew a lot faster.

Although the HP Way was Silicon Valley lore, it wasn’t a touchstone to the general public. Apple’s rapid success, by contrast, made quite an impression. Before long, the ideal of the loyal company man working his way to the top was being replaced by the ideal of the brilliant, arrogant college dropout conquering the world before he was 30: the entrepreneur as Alexander.

Business became more like sports or fashion: a topic of social conversation, a source of rooting interest and an expression of personal taste.

The cultural, or even religious, war between Apple and Microsoft devotees would have been as inconceivable in 1981 as a brand evangelist or a corporate chieftain who appeared in public without a tie.

Now, by contrast, people far removed from the executive suite, working in entirely different companies or even completely different industries, have strong opinions about what strategies Apple or Microsoft or General Motors or Walmart or Amazon should pursue.

Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work, Jobs said in a 2005 Stanford University commencement speech, which has been much quoted in recent days.

And the only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking.

Don’t settle.

That inspiring philosophy offers the promise of greatness and self-fulfillment, but also perpetual dissatisfaction. If business isn’t just about making money, if it is about finding a version of true love and leaving a cultural mark, the stakes are much higher. Your work becomes your identity.

Nobody ever asked why Steve Jobs kept working after he was rich. Everyone understood.

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-calling or gratuitous abuse is allowed.

Via e-mail, send letters to editorial@lmtonline.com or mail them to Letters to the Editor, 111 Esperanza Drive, Laredo, TX 78041.

COLUMN

Agency ready to battle drugs

By NEDINA GUTIERREZ SPECIAL TO THE TIMES

A

drug is any substance, solid, liquid or gas, that brings about physical and/or psychological changes in the body. If we know this, then why do our youth continue to engage in these illegal activities and keep harming themselves?

Youth do not waste time when it comes to experimenting with drugs. Here are some reasons they start: curiosity, fun, peer pressure, advertising, family problems and simply to

escape. Whatever their reasons for experimenting with drugs are, kids place themselves at risk for becoming addicted. Addiction is a very difficult and emotional road to take and can become a life-long problem. A government study shows that more than 23 million people over the age of 12 abuse or are dependent on alcohol or illegal drugs. This number does not include abuse of prescription drugs, a serious and significantly rising crisis.

This is why SCAN, Inc. is dedicated to serving the

County of Zapata to help stop the use and abuse of drugs and alcohol. The mission of SCAN, Inc. is to foster the healthy development of children, adolescents, adults and families through the provision of engaging, responsive, comprehensive and developmentally appropriate services that are deeply rooted in the community. Our purpose is to provide individuals with access to a variety of evidence-based prevention, intervention and treatment services that are delivered by highly trained and caring staff

members. Currently, the SCAN, Inc. office in Zapata County provides services from five different programs: Zapata County Community Coalition, Futuros Excepcionales, STAND Outpatient, STAR and Juntos Podemos.

Anyone needing more information about the different programs that are offered at the SCAN, Inc. office in Zapata County can call 956-765-3555. The office is at 605 N. U.S. 83, Suite H, in Zapata.

(Nedina Gutierrez is a program coordinator for SCAN)

Biden’s assumption is an error THE WASHINGTON POST

V

ice President Joe Biden has emphatically backed away from his apparent endorsement of China’s onechild policy. But he made another statement during his recent trip to China, on human rights, that also caught our eye.

Policy miscue The one-child remark was off the cuff. Biden was answering questions from an audience at Sichuan University in Chengdu on Sunday, and the subject was entitlement spending.

“Your policy has been one which I fully understand — I’m not secondguessing — of one child per family,” the vice president said. “The result being that you’re in a position where one wage earner will be taking care of four retired people. Not sustainable.”

Republican critics pounced (though it took them a couple of days).

The one-child policy has

rested on coercion, including forced sterilization and abortion, as well as incentives. On Tuesday, Biden’s office clarified that he opposes such measures, and the policy overall.

torium see our advocacy of human rights as at best an intrusion, and at worst an assault on your sovereignty.”

Chinese policy

There are a couple of misreadings there. Human rights are universal, enshrined by the United Nations, subscribed to (in theory) by China and every other U.N. member.

They’re not something “we refer to as human rights”: They are human rights, and they’re the same rights no matter where you live.

More important, how does Biden know that students at Sichuan University view U.S. advocacy as an intrusion or an assault on their sovereignty?

That’s what their Communist leaders would have us believe. But the students who were in Biden’s audience aren’t free to express their views on that subject. People who publicly advocate for human rights in China go to jail. Maybe the majority of his audience wished that Biden

“The vice president believes such practices are repugnant,” a spokeswoman said. “He also pointed out, in China, that the policy is, as a practical matter, unsustainable. He was arguing against the one-child policy to a Chinese audience.”

In his prepared speech to the same audience, which focused on the need for U.S.-Chinese understanding and cooperation, Biden briefly touched on human rights. His preamble to the topic unwisely bought into official Chinese views.

“Maybe the biggest difference in our respective approaches are our approaches to what we refer to as human rights,” Biden said. “I recognize that many of you in this audi-

Rights are rights

DOONESBURY | GARRY TRUDEAU

had been more forceful — had spoken out for harassed artist Ai Weiwei, say, or for imprisoned Nobel Peace laureate Liu Xiaobo.

Follow the leader Biden’s mistake doesn’t negate the value of his going on to make the case that “liberty unlocks a people’s full potential.”

But here’s why the mistake does matter. Dictatorships such as China’s invariably purport to speak for their people, in ways that are convenient for the dictators. The people are disappointed by U.S. policy in Iran, they tell us, or by Japan’s history books, or by the Nobel committee’s award.

Maybe it’s true; but how do we know? China’s communist rulers don’t dare let the people express their views, through elections or uncensored media or open opinion polls. Since they do not trust their people, we should not trust their official account of what their people believe.

Crime & More

SATURDAY, AUGUST 27, 2011

THE BLOTTER ASSAULT A fight in progress was reported at 2:55 a.m. Aug. 19 in the 900 block of Medina Avenue. An incident report states one man caused damage to a vehicle with a chain while another was found in possession of a controlled substance. Juan Gonzalez was arrested and charged with assault and possession of a controlled substance. Antonio UvalleGuzman was charged with assault and criminal mischief. Both men were taken to the Zapata Regional Jail.

A domestic disturbance was reported at 8:22 p.m. Aug. 23 at Junior’s Meat Market on First Street and Texas 16.

THE ZAPATA TIMES 5A

Army seizes ammo, narcotics

By CÉSAR G. RODRIGUEZ THE ZAPATA TIMES

Hundreds of weapons seized, thousands of rounds of ammo, tons of narcotics, dozens of arrests, several killed — including one soldier — are the highlights of a special operation headed by Mexico’s defense ministry, SEDENA, in a week-long sweep in northern states of Mexico, officials announced last weekend.

Military personnel worked with special detail in Coahuila, Nuevo León, Tamaulipas and San Luís Potosí in Operation Northeast, a strategy used by Mexican authorities to counter narcotrafficking and organized crime in the northern states of the country.

In weaponry, soldiers seized 426 assault rifles, 226 handguns, 68,262 rounds of ammo, 1,353 ammunition clips and 30 grenades.

During the operation, soldiers seized 10 facilities used by gangs to stash narcotics, among other illegal activity.

At least 141 people were arrested during the week-long operation. Twenty organized crime members and one soldier died in gun battles. Military personnel rescued 15 kidnapped people.

In drug seizures, soldiers confiscated a total of 6.3 tons of marijuana and 3,458 personal doses.

GUARDING THE CHECKPOINT A rebel fighter is seen at the checkpoint near the Tripoli International Airport outside Tripoli, LIbya, on Friday.

BURGLARY A burglary of a vehicle was reported at 3:17 a.m. Aug. 21 in the 1100 block of Ramireño Street.

A burglary of a building was reported at 10:11 a.m. Tuesday at Eighth Street and Texas 16.

After a traffic stop, deputies arrested Vicente Flores III and charged him with driving under the influence at about 5:30 p.m. Aug. 21 near the intersection of 10th Street and Roma Avenue. The man was taken to the Zapata Regional Jail.

By CÉSAR G. RODRIGUEZ THE ZAPATA TIMES

Photo by Sergey Ponomarev | AP

DWI

Deputies accuse man of shooting at another

By CÉSAR G. RODRIGUEZ

HIT AND RUN

LAREDO MORNING TIMES

A hit-and-run incident was reported at 9:59 p.m. Aug. 20 at the Pizza Hut parking lot near Third Street and U.S. 83. A woman stated that her vehicle was hit while it was parked outside the business.

Zapata County sheriff ’s deputies say a man shot at another person but no one was harmed in the incident.

Deputies responded to an aggravated assault call at 7:55 a.m. Aug. 21 in the 5300 block of South Siesta Lane. An incident report states Don Joseph Kling shot at a man with a .44 Magnum revolver.

According to reports, a man was walking his dog outside when Kling went inside a residence. He came out armed and shot toward the victim.

Deputies arrived on the scene and questioned Kling. He stated he shot at

PUBLIC INTOXICATION Leonel Presas Jr. was arrested and charged with public intoxication at about 4:15 a.m. Aug. 20 near the intersection of Roma Avenue and Seventh Street. The man was taken to Zapata Regional Jail.

RECKLESS DRIVING Fidencio A. Mendoza was arrested and charged with evading arrest and reckless driving at about 11 p.m. Aug. 20 near First Avenue and U.S. 83. The man was taken to the Zapata Regional Jail.

THEFT A stolen vehicle was reported at 12:56 a.m. Wednesday in the 200 block of Martinez Street in San Ygnacio.

UNLAWFUL FIREARM Deputies went to a residence at about 9:30 a.m. Aug. 19 in the 2500 block of Carla Street to conduct a sex offender compliance check. An incident report states deputies found a handgun and a rifle inside the residence. An investigation is ongoing.

Stash house yields pot, several people Tip results in special operation

DUI

Gilberto Gamez Jr. was arrested and charged with driving while intoxicated at about 2:30 a.m. Aug. 22 in the 300 block of Washington Avenue after he struck a parked pickup and a residence in San Ygnacio. The man was taken to Zapata Regional Jail.

About 1,726 personal doses of cocaine were recovered. Soldiers seized 119 vehicles, nine armored vehicles and a narcotank — a vehicle covered with steel to use in battle with rival cartels.

Tactical equipment such as helmets, bulletproof vests, backpacks and radio communication devices were also seized.

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

DON JOSEPH KLING: Faces charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.

the victim because “he was tired of him harassing them,” states a sheriff ’s office report.

Kling was arrested and charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and taken to the Zapata Regional Jail.

A black-handled revolver with six live rounds was recovered from the scene.

Deputies say they found spent casings Kling allegedly threw in a trash can.

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

Working from an anonymous tip, Mexico’s federal police initiated a special operation in Reynosa, the border town across the Rio Grande from Brownsville, during which they discovered a stash house with thousands of pounds of marijuana and undocumented people.

A report made public Thursday states federal police officers mobilized to Colonia Los Naranjos.

There, groups scattered to set up surveillance in the area. During the operation, officers noticed a man acting suspicious when he noticed law enforcement present in the area.

To elude authorities, the man attempted to enter a near-by facility. Federal officers quickly detained him and identified him as 45-year-old Rafael Rivas Rodríguez.

In conjunction with

To elude authorities, the man attempted to enter a near-by facility.

Mexico’s defense ministry, SEDENA, authorities set up a perimeter to inspect a home in the area. Officers located three undocumented men from India who were allegedly unlawfully restrained. First responders fed and aided the alleged victims.

A thorough inspection of the house yielded 120 bundles of marijuana scattered in several rooms inside the house. The approximate weight of the pot was 1,531 pounds. A beige 2002 Dodge vehicle, bearing Texas plates, was also seized during the operation.

The contraband and the vehicle were turned over to federal authorities for an investigation.

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

National

6A THE ZAPATA TIMES

SATURDAY, AUGUST 27, 2011

Stores prepare for Hurricane Irene sales

By MAE ANDERSON ASSOCIATED PRESS

NEW YORK — It’s the not-so-quiet before the storm.

People up and down the Eastern Seaboard are crowding hardware stores, grocers and big-box retailers like Home Depot and Walmart to pick up $599 generators, bottled water and flashlights in preparation for Hurricane Irene, which is expected to hit landfall by Saturday.

At Ace Hardware in Elizabeth City, N.C., near where the hurricane is expected to land, business on Thursday was triple what it is normally on that day.

The ShopRite in West Orange, N.J., was chaotic on Friday afternoon, with cars honking as people waited to get into the parking lot.

The Ace Hardware in Nags Head, N.C., sold out of portable generators by Thursday.

“With everyone saying this is going to be a bad one, no one is leaving anything to chance,” said John Robbins, an employee at the Nags Head store.

Some retailers are getting a boost in business, but extreme weather like hurricanes is damaging to the retail sector as a whole.

And this one is coming in the thick of the critical back-to-school shopping weekend, a time when some merchants make up to 25 percent of their annual revenue. In fact, weather research firm Planalytics estimates that Irene will stop 80 million shoppers from hitting the

malls this weekend. At the same time, demand for hurricane-related supplies is giving some retailers an unexpected boost that will likely continue as people deal with the cleanup in Irene’s aftermath.

In a note to clients on Thursday, Citigroup analysts Deborah Weinswig and Tina Hwang said they expect department stores will suffer with shoppers locked up inside their homes, while discount stores, supermarkets and home-improvement stores will get a rush of customers eager to stock up on canned foods, batteries and other survival gear.

To meet the increased demand, many big retailers like Home Depot, Lowes and Walmart have assembled disaster teams.

“Preparing for a hurricane is all about the supply chain. Making sure you got the right products at the right time that consumers are looking for,” said Sherif Mityas, a partner at A.T. Kearney.

Walmart Stores Inc., the world’s largest retailer, has its own staff meteorologist, who can evaluate the weather data and analyze how it will impact its stores and workers. The discounter also can forecast what shoppers are looking for before a hurricane strikes — and in its aftermath — by using predictive modeling that studies past spending behavior.

Mark Cooper, senior director of Walmart’s emergency management team, said the retailer is working with the Federal Emergen-

cy Management Agency to ensure that stores have all the items on its list for emergency preparedness kits. The list, which is on www.ready.gov, includes batteries and cleaning supplies. Walmart also plans to push more supplies like bug spray and clean up products in anticipation of flooding.

“Katrina is the benchmark for hurricanes,” said Cooper, who estimates that about 600 of the more than 4,000 Wal-mart stores could be impacted by the storm.

“We’ll see how this one goes. Regardless of size, we will be prepared.”

At Home Depot’s 24-hour command center, 100 associates that include human resource associates and logistics executives are carefully monitoring TVs and coordinating response efforts. Home Depot’s emergency preparedness team started working this past weekend with its stores in the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico, which have already been hit by Irene. By Friday morning, Home Depot had 500 trucks supplying its East Coast stores with products that are in demand, like generators.

“Product is selling just as fast as it arrives,” said Steve Holmes, senior manager of corporate communications for Home Depot.

By Friday, Lowe’s sent out 500 trucks to supply stores with such items as plywood, batteries, flashlights and water. Following the storm, the chain will stock up on cleanup supplies like mops, brooms and sump pumps.

Photo by John Minchillo | AP

A worker delivers water bottles to a store in the lead-up to Hurricane Irene as the storm closes in on the eastern seaboard, on Friday, in New York. Mayor Michael Bloomberg advised New Yorkers to gather supplies as the region prepared for wind, rain and flooding as the storm takes aim at an already saturated New York state.

Water District Notice of Public Hearing on Tax Rate The Siesta Shores Water Control Improvements will hold a public hearing on a proposed tax rate for the tax year 2011 on September 2, 2011 at 2:30 p.m. at 5229 North Siesta Lane, Zapata, Texas 78076. Your individual taxes may increase or decrease, depending on the change in the taxable value of your property in relation to the change in taxable value of all other property and the tax rate that is adopted.

FOR the proposal: Jose A. Dodier, President Janie de la Garza, Vice-President Ramiro O. Vela, Secretary/Treasurer Irma Richter, Director Larry Link, Director AGAINST the proposal: None PRESENT and not voting: None ABSENT: None The following table compares taxes on an average residence homestead in this taxing unit last year to taxes proposed on the average residence homestead this year.

Total tax rate (per $100 of value)

Last Year

This Year

0.258971/$100 Adopted

0.239500/$100 Proposed

Difference in rates per $100 of value -$0.019471/$100 Percentage increase/decrease in rates (+/-) -7.52% Average appraised value $44,770 General exemptions available (excluding senior citizen’s or disabled person’s exemptions) $6,935 $37,835 Average taxable value Tax on average residence homestead $97.98 Annual increase/decrease in taxes if proposed tax rate is adopted (+/-) and percentage of increase (+/-)

$54,750

$10,593 $44,157 $105.76

+$7.77 +7.93%

NOTICE OF TAXPAYER’S RIGHT TO ROLLBACK ELECTION If taxes on the average residence homestead increase by more than eight percent, the qualified voters of the district by petition may require that an election be held to determine whether to reduce the operation and maintenance tax rate to the rollback tax rate under Section 49.236(d), Water Code.

SÁBADO 27 DE AGOSTO DE 2011

Agenda en Breve SÁBADO 27 DE AGOSTO LAREDO — El equipo femenil de soccer Dustdevil de TAMIU recibe a Express G95 a las 6 p.m. en la cancha de la Universidad.

LAREDO — El equipo varonil de soccer Dustdevil de TAMIU competirá en la UTB Exhibition a las 8 p.m. en la cancha de la Universidad.

LAREDO — “Guerra de Sexos y Televisoras” a las 8 p.m. en El Palacio de Los Presidentes, 819 avenida Los Presidentes. Se presentan: “La Paca” (Doble de Paquita la del Barrio), Godines Show, La Paoo, y Javier Miranda (Doble de JuanGabriel).

Evento tiene costo.

LAREDO — “Oscar Zamora y Don Chema” se presentan hoy en The American Legion Post # 59, 809 Zaragoza, a las 8 p.m. También actuará El Dueto de Juan y Javier.

NUEVO LAREDO, México — Primer Foro Social UNT2011 “Globalización, Iniciativa Mérida, Migración, Violencia Intrafamiliar, Pobreza Extremam, Equidad de Género”, de 10:45 a.m. a 12 p.m. en el Casino de la Feria en los Terrenos de Expomex, Netzagualcóyotl No. 301.

NUEVO LAREDO, México — JazzTam Fest se presenta “FAS Trío en concierto” a las 7 p.m. en la Sala Sergio Peña del Espacio Cultural Antigua Aduana. Entrada gratuita.

Zfrontera

PÁGINA 7A

CAMINOS SERÁN MODERNIZADOS POR GOBIERNO DE TAMAULIPAS

Obras unirán regiones ESPECIAL PARA TIEMPO DE ZAPATA

El Gobierno de Tamaulipas invertirá 690.72 millones de pesos en conservación, modernización y obras emergentes en carreteras estatales y caminos rurales, además de obras ferroviarias.

El programa “Uniendo Regiones” fue presentado por la la Subsecretaría de Infraestructura

de Transporte, que tan solo este año invertirá 106.2 millones de pesos.

En lo que se refiere a la conservación periódica y/o reconstrucción, se estima una inversión de 181 millones de peso, dijo el Subsecretario Genaro Torres Taboada.

A la fecha se han ejecutado ya 44.34 millones de pesos y con ellos

se han atendido 114 kilómetros.

Torres destacó que en la rehabilitación y conservación de caminos rurales se ha previsto una inversión aproximada de 90 millones de pesos.

Inclusive en las próximas semanas se licitarán los contratos para ejercer 50 millones de pesos y atender 336. 61 kilómetros en revestimiento, rehabilitación de dre-

najes y desmonte y deshierbe de zonas laterales.

También se realizan 13 acciones de modernización, como son la construcción, pavimentación y ampliación tanto de caminos como libramientos, así como la construcción de entronques y puentes. En esta área se estima una inversión de 300 millones de pesos.

TAMAULIPAS

DOMINGO 28 DE AGOSTO LAREDO — Imaginarium of South Texas and Dillard’s presentan el desfile de modas estudiantil “Field of Dreams” de 6 p.m. a 7 p.m. en el Imaginarium, dentro del Mall del Norte. Costo: 40 dólares para adultos y 10 dólares para menores de 12 años.

NUEVO LAREDO, México — En el marco del JazzTamFest se presenta la Clínica de Jazz con Musinetwork a las 3:30 p.m. en la Sala Sergio Peña del Espacio Cultural Antigua Aduana. Entrada gratuita.

NUEVO LAREDO, México — JazzTam Fest se presenta “Rafael Alcalá en concierto” a las 7 p.m. en la Sala Sergio Peña del Espacio Cultural Antigua Aduana. Entrada gratuita.

LUNES 29 DE AGOSTO NUEVO LAREDO, México — Cine Club presenta en el marco del Centenario de Cantinflas, la película “La Vuelta al Mundo en 80 días”, a las 6 p.m. en el Teatro Lucio Blanco de la Casa de la Cultura. Entrada libre.

Foto de cortesía | Gobierno de Tamaulipas

La Secretaría de Desarrollo Rural anunció la aplicación de 38 millones de pesos en campañas fitosanitarias para fortalecer la agricultura en Tamaulipas.

ATENCIÓN AL CAMPO Gobierno estatal invertirá en campañas fitosanitarias TIEMPO DE ZAPATA

R

econociendo que la fortaleza de la agricultura en Tamaulipas se sustenta en la calidad de sus productos, el Gobierno de Tamaulipas anunció la aplicación de 38 millones de pesos en actividades relacionadas a campañas fitosanitarias.

El Secretario de Desarrollo Rural, Jorge Alberto Reyes Moreno, afirmó que un campo que trabaja en la sanidad e inocuidad como meta busca la sustentabilidad para su gente al contar con un campo fuerte y productivo.

El Director Nacional de Sanidad

Fallecen dos mujeres en accidente vial

Alguacil anuncia es su último mandato

POR CÉSAR G. RODRIGUEZ

NUEVO LAREDO, México — Ciclo de Cine y Literatura Elena Garro presenta “Ama a tu prójimo” a las 6 p.m. en el Auditorio de Estación Palabra. Entrada libre.

TIEMPO DE ZAPATA

NUEVO LAREDO, México — Jueves de Teatro presenta “En la Ardiente Oscuridad” a las 7 p.m. en el Teatro Lucio Blanco de la Casa de la Cultura. Entrada libre.

VIERNES 2 DE SEPTIEMBRE NUEVO LAREDO, México — Presentación de la obra “La Última Letra”, bajo la dirección de José Hernández Tovar con el Grupo Facetas Teatro y Pantomima a las 7 p.m. en el Auditorio de Estación Palabra. Entrada libre.

con una baja prevalencia en cuanto a moscas de la fruta en la región norte, y la presencia de roya asiática de la soya y langosta están bajo control sanitario.

“Asimismo nos hemos blindado ante la posible llegada del huanglongbing de los cítricos y el algodonero, manteniéndonos bajo protección sanitaria”, agregó Reyes.

El Delegado de la Sagarpa, Roberto Salinas Salinas, dijo que las acciones conjuntas del estado y la federación han permitido forjar una presencia significativa en la prevención y combate de plagas con la conformación de un cerco epidemiológico que ha generado excelentes resultados

CONDADO DE ZAPATA

MIÉRCOLES 31 DE AGOSTO

JUEVES 1 DE SEPTIEMBRE

seguir y que nos mantienen bajo los mejores estándares de calidad y control”, dijo Trujillo.

Reyes indicó que se desarrollan actividades como la constitución de una red estatal de trampeo preventivo, muestreo de frutos, control mecánico y químico, liberación de moscas estériles y capacitación a productores, así como la exploración y vigilancia epidemiológica.

“Esto permite que actualmente mantengamos una zona libre de plagas devastadoras como la mosca exótica de la fruta, la palomilla del nopal y la roya anaranjada de la caña de azúcar”, dijo Reyes.

Actualmente Tamaulipas cuenta

INVESTIGACIÓN

MARTES 30 DE AGOSTO NUEVO LAREDO — Programa “Así Soy y Leo” presenta un Mano a Mano de cuentos en el Cuadrilatero, con profesionales de la lucha libre enmascarados, a partir de las 7 p.m. en Estación Palabra. Entrada libre.

Vegetal de la Secretaría de Agricultura, Ganadería, Desarrollo Rural, Pesca y Alimentación (Sagarpa), Javier Trujillo Arriaga, dijo que van a coordinar acciones de divulgación, capacitación y control mecánico con el Gobierno del Estado para el buen manejo de las campañas contra la mosca de la fruta y el huanglonbing (HLB), que es una amenaza en Tamaulipas, para que la exportación se dé con más facilidad.

“En Tamaulipas realizamos acciones a través del Comité Estatal de Sanidad Vegetal, constituido como el grupo más importante del control fitosanitario en el estado donde se deciden las estrategias a

Dos mujeres de Laredo conocidas por su amor y servicio a Dios murieron el lunes por la tarde cuando regresaban de la boda de un familiar. Una tercera víctima, un hombre, continuaba en condición estable en Laredo Medical Center, hasta el martes por la tarde.

Oficiales del Departamento de Seguridad Pública de Texas dijeron que el accidente, el cual ocurrió al sur de Zapata, continúa siendo investigado.

Autoridades identificaron a las mujeres como Marycarmen Alcalá, de 54 años de edad, y Carmen Esmeralda Alcalá, de 19. Oficiales de DPS informaron que Rafael Alcalá era el conductor del Nissan Altima. Todos los ocupantes del vehículo llevaban puesto el cinturón de seguridad.

Oficiales y paramédicos recibieron una llamada alrededor de las 3:16 p.m. del lunes, reportando una colisión sobre U.S. 83., aproximadamente a 10 millas de Zapata. El Sargento Tony Salas, vocero de DPS, dijo que el conductor de un Nissan Altima 2010 se dirigía hacia el norte sobre U.S. 83.

El conductor posteriormente identificado como Rafael, intentó rebasar cuando era inseguro y chocó contra un trailer que iba por el carril hacia el sur sobre U.S. 83.

La familia venía de regreso de la boda de su hijo en México, informaron amigos de la familia.

El Oficial Estatal (Game Warden) Sam Padgett dijo que el vehículo fue destruido y agregó que el impacto tuvo que haber sido lo suficientemente fuerte para enviar al motor del vehículo a unos 40 a 50 pies dentro de

un rancho.

Un oficial estatal empezó a realizar respiración cardiopulmonar y compresiones en una de las mujeres. Paramédicos del Departamento de Bomberos del Condado de Zapata la llevaron al hospital del Condado de Starr, donde posteriormente fue pronunciada muerta. Más tarde fue identificada como Carmen Esmeralda.

El Jefe de Bomberos del Condado de Zapata, J.J. Meza, dijo que paramédicos encontraron a Marycarmen sin vida en el lugar de los hechos. Personal auxilió a Rafael y lo llevaron de emergencia a Laredo Medical Center en condición grave. Paramédicos dijeron que el conductor del trailer salió ileso.

Meza indicó que el área donde ocurrió el accidente, es un lugar en proceso de construcción.

ESPECIAL PARA TIEMPO DE ZAPATA

El Alguacil del Condado de Zapata, Sigifredo “Sigi” González Jr., anunció que no buscará otro mandato en el cargo.

El mandato de González finaliza oficialmente el 31 de diciembre del 2012.

González ha fungido como Alguacil del Condado de Zapata desde el 24 de julio de 1994, cuando fue designado por parte de la Corte de Comisionados del Condado de Zapata.

Ha sido agente del orden público desde haber completado la academia regional de policía en Laredo en agosto de 1976.

Asunto familiar “Hace cuatro años, mi familia y yo discutimos el retiro, pero yo decidí que buscaría un mandato más”, dijo él.

Aseguró que los resi-

SIGIFREDO ‘SIGI’ GONZALEZ JR.: Dijo fue decisión personal. dentes del Condado de Zapata lo honraron con el respaldo para servir pero que actualmente no le resulta viable económicamente permanecer en el cargo.

“Agradezco a todas las personas que me han apoyado a lo largo de mi carrera —tantas que prácticamente sería imposible nombran a cada una individualmente”, dijo Gonzalez. “Han habido tantas personas que han sido muy fieles conmigo que no existen las palabras para poder expresar mi agradecimiento. Sobre todo, quiero agradecer a Dios y a mi familia todo su apoyo”.

González analiza funciones en el sector privado para cuando su mandato se complete en 2012.

8A THE ZAPATA TIMES

SATURDAY, AUGUST 27, 2011

2 million told to leave as Irene takes aim

By MICHAEL BIESECKER AND JENNIFER PELTZ ASSOCIATED PRESS

MOREHEAD CITY, N.C. — Hurricane Irene caused extraordinary disruption Friday as it zeroed in for a catastrophic run up the Eastern Seaboard. More than 2 million people were ordered to move to safer places, and New York City announced plans to shut down its entire network of subways for the first time because of a natural disaster.

As the storm’s outermost bands of wind and rain began to lash the Outer Banks of North Carolina, authorities in points farther north begged people to get out of harm’s way. The hurricane lost some strength but still packed winds of almost 100 mph, and officials in the Northeast, not used to tropical weather, feared it could wreak devastation.

“Don’t wait. Don’t delay,” said President Barack Obama, who decided to cut short his summer vacation by a day and return to Washington.

“I cannot stress this highly enough: If you are in the projected path of this hurricane, you have to take precautions now.”

Hurricane warnings were issued from North Carolina to New York, and watches were posted farther north, on the islands of Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard off Massachusetts. Evacuation orders covered at least 2.3 million people, including 1 million in New Jersey, 315,000 in Maryland, 300,000 in North

Photo by Mel Evans | AP

Vehicles drive in lines of traffic headed north on the Garden State Parkway across the Great Egg Harbor Bay Inlet Bridge on Friday, near Ocean City, N.J., as much of the Jersey shore evacuates inland ahead of Hurricane Irene.

Carolina, 200,000 in Virginia and 100,000 in Delaware.

“This is probably the largest number of people that have been threatened by a single hurricane in the United States,” said Jay Baker, a geography professor at Florida State University.

New York City ordered more than 300,000 people who live in flood-prone areas to leave, including Battery Park City at the southern tip of Manhattan, Coney Island and the beachfront Rockaways. But it was not clear how many would do it, how they would get out or where

they would go. Most New Yorkers don’t have a car.

On top of that, the city said it would shut down the subways and buses at noon Saturday, only a few hours after the first rain is expected to fall. The transit system carries about 5 million people on an average weekday, fewer on weekends. It has been shut down several times before, including during a transit workers’ strike in 2005 and after the Sept. 11 attacks a decade ago, but never for weather.

Mayor Michael Bloomberg said there was little authorities could do to

SHERIFF Continued from Page 1A years old. About three years later, he went to work for the communications division of the Texas Department of Public Safety.

In 1981, Gonzalez became the first investigator in the history of the Zapata County Attorney’s Office. In 1992, he was appointed team leader of the DEA Task Force in Zapata.

Gonzalez was appointed sheriff in July 1994 and was elected to the office in November 1994. He was reelected in 1996, 2000, 2004 and 2008.

“Four years ago, my family and I discussed retirement, but I decided that I would run one more time. The people of Zapata County honored me by giving me another four years to serve them as their sheriff,” Gonzalez said in a prepared statement. Of the 35 years Gonzalez has served in law enforcement, 17 of those he served as the sheriff.

“I give lots of thanks to the people of this county for their never-ending support and trust of me for representing them,” Gonzalez said in a phone interview.

In May 2005, he organized the Texas Border Sheriff ’s Coalition. It consists of a coalition of 16 sheriffs whose counties border Mexico. He was elected the first chairman of the coalition. Gonzalez is presently the immediate past chairman of the Southwestern Border Sheriff ’s Coalition, which covers border sheriffs from California, Arizona, New Mexico and Texas.

Gonzalez is an adjunct instructor and chairman of the Laredo Community

“

Four years ago, my family and I discussed retirement, but I decided that I would run one more time. The people of Zapata County honored me by giving me another four years to serve them as their sheriff.”

ZAPATA COUNTY SHERIFF SIGIFREDO “SIGI” GONZALEZ JR.

College Border Regional Police Academy. He is grateful that for the past 17 years, he’s been able to work together with employees he labeled as faithful and hardworking individuals.

Since he came into office, his priority has been to computerize the office and provide constituents faster response calls. To better protect Zapatans, the sheriff ’s office relies on programs such as Crime Stoppers and Neighborhood Watch.

The sheriff ’s office recently acquired equipment for better mobility and deployment, such as tactical towers, the TerraHawk, the mobile command center, a crime scene unit and other equipment to safeguard the Zapata community.

But Gonzalez said one of his greatest achievements is transparency in office.

“Because of the things we have, we’re the envy of a lot of agencies of Texas because of the way we work and the equipment we have,” Gonzalez said.

“We work hard on maintaining good ethics and in

providing the best policing services.”

Finances played a part in Gonzalez’ decision to retire, he said.

“Unfortunately, it has come to the point where it is not financially feasible for me to remain as sheriff,” Gonzalez added.

His reasons for not seeking another term go far beyond financial.

“There comes a time to be with the family,” the sheriff said. He is married and has two children.

Gonzalez looks forward to spending more time with them, he said. There had been some occasions when he had brought his family back from vacation to Zapata for a reported emergency.

“That was kind of unfair for my family,” said Gonzalez, who added he plans to go out and travel more with his loved ones.

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

force people to leave.

“We do not have the manpower to go door-todoor and drag people out of their homes,” he said. “Nobody’s going to get fined.

Nobody’s going to go to jail.

But if you don’t follow this, people may die.”

Shelters were opening Friday afternoon, and the city was placed under its first hurricane warning since 1985.

Transit systems in New Jersey and Philadelphia also announced plans to shut down, and Washington declared a state of emergency.

Boisterous New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie demanded

people “get the hell off the beach” in Asbury Park and said: “You’re done. Do not waste any more time working on your tan.”

Thousands of airline passengers were grounded for the weekend. JetBlue Airways said it was scrubbing about 880 flights between Saturday and Monday, most to and from hub airports in New York and Boston. Other airlines said they were waiting to be more certain about Irene’s path before announcing cancellations.

Thousands of people were already without power. In Charleston, S.C., several people had to be res-

cued after a tree fell on their car.

Defying the orders, hardy holdouts in North Carolina put plywood on windows, gathered last-minute supplies and tied down boats. More than half the people who live on two remote islands, Hatteras and Ocracoke, had ignored orders to leave, and as time to change their minds ran short, officials ordered dozens of body bags. The last ferry from Ocracoke was set to leave at 4 p.m. Friday.

“I anticipate we’re going to have people floating on the streets, and I don’t want to leave them lying there,” said Richard Marlin, fire chief for one of the seven villages on Hatteras.

“The Coast Guard will either be pulling people off their roofs like in Katrina or we’ll be scraping them out of their yards.”

Officially, Irene was expected to make landfall Saturday near Morehead City, on the southern end of the Outer Banks, the barrier island chain. But long before the eye crossed the coastline, the blustery winds and intermittent rains were already raking the coast.

The coast of North Carolina was expected to get winds of more than 100 mph and waves perhaps as high as 11 feet, National Hurricane Center meteorologist David Zelinsky said.

“This is a really large hurricane and it is dangerous,” he said. “Whether it is a Category 2 or 3 at landfall, the effects are still going to be strong. I would encourage people to take it seriously.”

INVENTION Continued from Page 1A density polyethylene material, indicate precise location and depth of lines. The color-coded markers have a depth indicator and at the base actually have a wraparound saddle and strap on the underground pipe. This allows several pipes to be located in close proximity to one another at various depths and varying directions, they say.

Currently, markers indicate only the presence of a pipeline, which sometimes can have a right of way of 30 feet, the Garzas learned during their research. The markers don’t determine the exact location of the pipeline. Before digging, all excavators should call 811 at least 72 hours before digging to verify the presence of underground pipelines or other utilities.

The couple also learned that pipeline markers are not always placed on top of a pipeline. And the pipeline may not follow a straight course between markers.

Excavation damage is a leading cause of serious pipeline incidents, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration. According to a breakdown of serious incident causes of all pipeline systems nationally from 1990 to 2009, 34.5 percent were attributed to excavation

damage.

This is significant in Texas, which leads the nation with 358,000 miles of pipeline.

And recent activity in the Eagle Ford Shale makes the matter more pressing. Hundreds of workers across several counties are laying pipeline in connection with the Eagle Ford Shale formation, which is rich in natural gas and oil.

The Garzas spent 10 years researching and perfecting their product. They hired a patent lawyer who ultimately helped them secure a U.S. patent in 2008.

Their product will be on the market within three weeks, and they already have 2,000 pre-ordered. A regular marker costs about $120.

The lollipop markers have color codes such as yellow for gas, blue for water, green for sewer, orange for technological communication, and red for electricity.

The middle of the sign is reserved for the logo of companies.

“We’re just trying to help the companies and the pub-

lic. There is a line here and be careful,” said Mario Garza.

Added Amada, who has two master’s degrees and 29 years experience in the education field: “You have to protect your workers … especially now with Eagle Ford.”

They are also going to make smaller markers for businesses and households “because in Laredo you have a lot of gas lines,” Amada Garza said.

“They can locate them and make it easier.”

Amada Garza also credits her training and certification from the Small Business Development Center with Texas A&M International University with helping her launch a successful business.

“It was very impressive,” she said. “This is a fact that it works.”

For more information on the product, the website is www.surefindpipelinemarkers.com.

(Valerie Godines Fitzgerald may be reached at 7282557 or vfitzgerald@lmtonline.com)

SATURDAY, AUGUST 27, 2011

THE ZAPATA TIMES 9A

BELINDA FAYE DUNCAN Belinda Faye Duncan, 68, born Aug. 14, 1943, passed away Tuesday, Aug. 16, 2011, at Laredo Medical Center in Laredo.

Linda was born in Macon County, Georgia and moved to California as a teenager with her mother.

Linda was a mover and a shaker, working her way through a variety of jobs from assembly line worker in a spring factory to cocktail waitressing in California and Las Vegas, then on to bookkeeping.

By far her most loved job was as a truck driver. Linda was very proud of her many safety awards as a driver. She and Steve set-

tled in Zapata, Texas, where they turned a house into a home, building, planting, planning, barbecuing and enjoying life. Linda was always happiest when cooking for

or doing for someone else, especially around the holidays. There was always a feast to be found at her table. Linda will be missed by many, but we know that she has returned home to her rightful place in heaven.

Linda is survived by her mother, Willie Belle Rahn; husband, Steve Williams; sister, Cathy Rahn; brothers, Dennis Rahn (Stevie Rahn) and Carl Rahn; daughter, Sherry Shaw (Tom Shaw); son, James W. Mainard (Kathleen Mainard); and seven grandchildren in order of age: Jonathon Taylor (Diane Taylor), Michael

MARCELINO ROMERO Taylor (Alexis Taylor), Steven Taylor, Madison Mainard, Cooper Mainard, Allison Taylor and Jackson Mainard.

A memorial service was held Sunday, Aug. 21, 2011, at 5 p.m. at King’s Way Church.

Funeral arrangements were under the direction of Rose Garden Funeral Home Daniel A. Gonzalez, funeral director, 2102 Highway 83, Zapata.

GLADYS ANN BROWNELL Gladys Ann Brownell, 83, passed away Monday, Aug. 15, 2011, at her residence in Zapata. Gone but not forgotten, in memory of a loving wife, mother, grandmother and friend to all who knew her.

For several years she fought a courageous battle with cancer, never giving into her pain. She was an adventurous woman and there was nothing she couldn’t accomplish when she set her mind to it. No chore was big nor small.

She taught all of her children the important lessons and values of life.

She enjoyed and cherished her time fishing,

hunting, bingo gambling and spending time with her family, especially the love of her life, Robert, her husband of 60 years.

Mrs. Brownell is preceded in death by her

daughters Jacklyn and Linda Colonna; parents: Anna and Earl of Wisconsin; two grandchildren: Susie and Doug; and two great-grandchildren: Levi and Jayden.

Gladys leaves behind her husband, Robert Jack Brownell from Zapata; daughters Marie Hudson from Wisconsin and Mary (Randy) Bishop from Utah; three brothers: Ervin, Robert and Dickie Wills from Wisconsin; 11 grandchildren; 25 greatgrandchildren; 11 greatgreat-grandchildren; and by extended family and numerous cherished friends.

Gladys will be missed by all, but will live forever in our hearts.

No services at the request of Gladys. Donations can be made in her name to the American Cancer Society.

Funeral arrangements were under the direction of Rose Garden Funeral Home Daniel A. Gonzalez, funeral director, 2102 Highway 83, Zapata.

ISIDRO CAMPOS Isidro Campos, 86, passed away Thursday, Aug. 18, 2011, at his residence in Zapata.

Mr. Campos is preceded in death by his wife, Angelita Amador de Campos; and a daughter-in-law, Irene Campos.

Mr. Campos is survived by his sons: Rogelio Campos, Jesus (Natividad) Campos, Ruben (Leticia) Campos, Francisco (Abigail) Campos, Isidro Jr. (Araceli) Campos and Martin (Jemima) Campos;

daughters: Virginia (Joel) Rodriguez, Julia (Mauri-

lio) Sanchez, Carmela (Aurelio) Chapa and Rosa Reyes; 26 grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; and other family members and friends.

Visitation hours were held Friday, Aug. 19, 2011, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. with a rosary at 7 p.m. at Rose Garden Funeral Home.

The funeral procession departed Saturday, Aug. 20, 2011, at 9:45 a.m. for a 10 a.m. funeral Mass at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church. Commit-

tal services followed at Zapata County Cemetery.

Funeral arrangements were under the direction of Rose Garden Funeral Home Daniel A. Gonzalez, funeral director, 2102 Highway 83, Zapata.

By MATT SCHUDEL As songwriting partners, Nick Ashford and his wife, Valerie Simpson, wrote chart-topping rhythm-andblues hits for Ray Charles, Marvin Gaye and Diana Ross, and then went on to become singing stars themselves in the 1970s and 1980s as Ashford & Simpson.

Ashford, 70, died Aug. 22 in New York City of throat cancer.

He and his future wife began writing together in 1964 and found success early

when a throwaway party tune, “Let’s Go Get Stoned,” (written with a third partner) rose to No. 1 on the R&B charts for Charles in 1966.

The couple then became staff writers for Motown and churned out a series of hits in the late 1960s for Gaye and his singing partner, Tammi Terrell, that included the rousing “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” “Your Precious Love” and “Ain’t Nothing Like the Real Thing.”

Early in their career, Ashford primarily wrote

lyrics while Simpson composed the music at a piano.

“We still don’t have a formula,” Ashford told The Washington Post in 1977. “I might think of a line or two.

Valerie might hear me singing and try to catch up on the piano. But then I might hear her playing and come with an idea.”

The couple also wrote for Gladys Knight & the Pips, Smokey Robinson, Aretha Franklin, The Marvelettes, Teddy Pendergrass and Chaka Khan.

“They had magic, and that’s what creates those

Committal services will follow at Zapata County Cemetery.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Rose Garden Funeral Home, Daniel A. Gonzalez, funeral director, 2102 Highway 83, Zapata.

OSBALDO DANIEL SALAS VALADEZ Osbaldo Daniel Salas Valadez, 21, passed away Friday, Aug. 19, 2011.

Osbaldo is preceded in death by his father, Pedro Eloy Salas.

Osbaldo is survived by his wife, Pilar Magaly Lozano; mother, Maria Elena Valadez Garcia; daughter, Dariana Salas; brother, Juan Pedro (Mariela) Salas; sisters: Gladys L. Salas and Mileydi Salas; maternal grandmother, Genoveva Valadez Garcia; and by numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

A graveside service was held Thursday, Aug. 25, 2011, at 10:30 a.m. at Zapata County Cemetery.

Funeral arrangements were under the direction of Rose Garden Funeral

Home Daniel A. Gonzalez, funeral director, 2102 Highway 83, Zapata.

JOSEPH LEE LOWE

Singer/writer Nick Ashford dies THE WASHINGTON POST

Marcelino Romero, 74, passed away Tuesday, Aug. 23, 2011.

Mr. Romero is preceded in death by his parents: Severo and Angelita Romero; brother Juan (Raquel) Romero; and a sister Paula Hernandez.

Mr. Romero is survived by his wife, Concepcion M. Romero; son, Jose A. (Sylvia) Romero; grandchildren: Juan Jose Romero, Sylvia Ivette Romero and Daniela Romero; great-grandchild, Brianna Romero; brother Ruben (Maria) Romero; sisters Olga (Paulino) Lopez and Maruca; and by numerous other family members and many friends.

Visitation hours will be held Friday, Aug. 26, 2011, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. with a chapel service at 10:30 a.m. and a rosary at 1 p.m. at Rose Garden Funeral Home.

wonderful hits, that magic,” Verdine White of Earth, Wind and Fire said. “Without those songs, those artists wouldn’t have been able to go to the next level.”

Ross and the Supremes scored a hit with “Ain’t No Mountain” in 1968. Two years later, she recorded a solo version that became her first No. 1 hit.

Ashford and Simpson wrote and produced all but one of the songs on Ross’ debut solo album, “Diana Ross” (1970), including “Reach Out and Touch (Somebody’s Hand).”

Joseph Lee Lowe, 64, passed away Monday, Aug. 22, 2011, at his residence in Zapata.

Mr. Lowe is preceded in death by his parents: Harold C. Lowe and Marie T. Lowe; and brothers and sisters John Leland Lowe, Leulla May Lowe, Lawren Lee Lowe, Linda Sue Lowe and Letha Marie Lowe.

Mr. Lowe is survived by sisters Lila Pearl Neatherlin and Leona K. Henderson; and by numerous nieces, nephews and many friends.

Funeral arrangements were under the direction of Rose Garden Funeral Home, Daniel A. Gonzalez, funeral director, 2102 Highway 83, Zapata.

10A THE ZAPATA TIMES

SATURDAY, AUGUST 27, 2011

WRECK Continued from Page 1A the collision by moving to the right but was unsuccessful and collided with the Nissan Altima, Salas said. Meza pointed out that the area where the accident occurred is undergoing construction.

Family and friends say Marycarmen, a self-employed woman, and Carmen Esmeralda, a junior majoring in communication disorders at Texas A&M International University, will be greatly missed.

They are only a step ahead in life, said the Rev. Norman Howell, pastor at Church of the Crossroads, where the Alcalas attended.

“They were deeply loved, and they’ll continue to be loved,” Howell said. “It’s hard being apart from each other. But we look forward to seeing them again.”

Howell recalled the Alcalas as a family faithful to God. In the summer, Carmen Esmeralda used her talent to lead the children’s choir during Vacation Bible School.

“They are a very united family and very involved in church activities,” Howell said. “They were very

Courtesy photo

Left to right are Marycarmen, Carmen Esmeralda and Rafael Alcala. Both women died Monday after an accident about 10 miles south of Zapata. Rafael was hospitalized and listed in stable conditiion. committed to each other.

(Marycarmen) and (Rafael) worked as greeters during the Spanish service. …

They made the people feel welcome.”

Eduardo Santizo, a friend of the Alcalas, has known the family for sev-

ANOTHER ROUND OF PROTESTS

Photo by Majdi Mohammed | AP

A Palestinian demonstrator shouts at Israeli soldiers during a protest between Ramallah and Jerusalem, on Friday. Clashes between Palestinians and Israeli security forces erupted after noon prayers on the last Friday of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

eral years. Santizo saw how the family members grew spiritually when they came into Christianity and first congregated at Comunidad Cristiana Agape, where Carmen Esmeralda was made part of the praise-and-worship team.

“God allowed us to see the before and after in that family,” Santizo said, noting the Alcalas’ passion to serve. “God did something tremendous in that family.”

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

SATURDAY, AUGUST 27, 2011

ON THE WEB: THEZAPATATIMES.COM

Sports&Outdoors CROSS COUNTRY

Never looking back on it

Lady Hawks roll on The Zapata girls’ cross country team held its own at its meet last weekend.

Zapata girls’ XC holds its own

By CLARA SANDOVAL THE ZAPATA TIMES

Zapata held its eighth annual South Texas Stampede on the grounds of Zapata High School last weekend.

A total of six divisions, with more than 100 runners, hit the course to see who captured the top 10 individual races.

Despite the long list of premier programs, the 3A Lady Hawks were able to hold their own against the 4A and 5A

A

fter hanging up my whistle a few years ago, I have not looked back on the coaching

world.

I still have many friends who still roam the sidelines in attempt to lead their team to victory, and I see their frustrations like I used to have so many years ago.

Whenever I run into one of my former colleagues at a game or practice, I get the same question asked over and over again for the past few years since I took a plunge into the journalism world.

Do I miss coaching?

My answer is always the same: “No, I don’t miss coaching because I am still around the sports world, but in a different capacity.”

I enjoyed game time, but I did not enjoy everything else that came along with coaching that they do not tell you about when you first decide to get into that world.

No, I don’t miss those long practice sessions or the open gym that you must have in the summer to make sure you give your team every opportunity to succeed.

You can kiss your summer vacation away.

No, I don’t miss getting home on a school night at 2 a.m. and still having to get up the next day to go to school. That is, if you get to go home right away, because sometimes parents take their time to pick up their child and responsible coaches have to stay there until the last athlete gets picked up.

I once waited 40 minutes after we arrived at 2 a.m. with an athlete because the parent went back to sleep.

The parent did not get up until the athlete called again.

No, I don’t miss dealing with parents who think that their child is a superstar because when they were in elementary they led the team to the championship.

Parents are sometimes blind to their child’s ability.

No, I don’t miss those long bus rides that have the bus traveling at 55 miles per hour because they are not allowed to go above that speed.

No, I don’t miss going over to the athletic office to make sure I turn in the receipts from the

See SANDOVAL PAGE 2B

Courtesy Photo

LEAPING HIGH

See ZAPATA

PAGE 2B

CROSS COUNTRY

Zapata XC boys run on

By CLARA SANDOVAL THE ZAPATA TIMES

Photo by Clara Sandoval | The Zapata Times

Shelby Bigler and the Zapata Lady Hawks are 4-4 overall following Tuesday’s 3-0 win over Hebbronville on Tuesday night. Zapata won, 25-23, 25-15 and 25-16. Bigler contributed nine kills, four aces, five digs and two blocks.

The Hawks boys’ cross country team has not skipped a beat since last year’s run that finished at the state meet.

Zapata swept the top three spots in the varsity division last weekend and placed all five runners in the top 10 to run away with the team title at the eighth annual South Texas Stampede in Zapata.

The Hawks were led by the legs of Luis Garza, who crossed the finish line at 17:14 to win the individual boys’ title.

Garza was followed by teammate Carlos Rodriguez (17:22) and Rafael Benavidez (17:30) for second and third place, respectively.

Rounding out the top 10 were Juan Rangel with eighth place, Tony Mendoza (10th place), Jose Garcia (11th place) and Heriberto Lopez (15th place).

“Whenever you have five in the top 10, with a 1-2-3 sweep, you will win on any planet,” Zapata coach Luis Escamilla said.

The Hawks are exactly where Escamilla envisioned his team early on in the season.

“We are a minute ahead of last year’s team performance,” he said. “There is still plenty of

See BOYS PAGE 2B

NFL

Cowboys look to clean up

By JAIME ARON ASSOCIATED PRESS

ARLINGTON — Jason Garrett has a lengthy wish list for the Dallas Cowboys’ final big test of the preseason tonight in Minnesota.

He’d like to see Tony Romo string together several crisp drives, especially if they can feature running backs Tashard Choice and DeMarco Murray. Injuries have kept both out all preseason, and they’re battling for the backup spot behind Felix Jones. Garrett hasn’t said whether they will play, but the club clearly hopes so.

Touchdowns would be great, but Garrett also would like to try a bunch of field goals to help sort through his collection of kicking candidates.

Garrett also hopes to see Rob Ryan’s new defense become a lot stingier. In two preseason games, they’ve struggled to stop runners and receivers. Most of all, they’ve failed to get any of the turnovers that Garrett covets. Dallas and Cincinnati were the only teams not to recover a fumble or snatch an interception in either of their first two preseason games.

See COWBOYS PAGE 2B

Photo by LM Otero | AP

Dallas Cowboys head coach Jason Garrett and quarterback Tony Romo (9) stand during a preseason game against the San Diego Chargers Sunday, Aug. 21, in Arlington. The Chargers won 20-7.

PAGE 2B

Zscores

SATURDAY, AUGUST 27, 2011

Aggies take step toward leaving

By KRISTIE RIEKEN ASSOCIATED PRESS

Texas A&M took another step toward leaving the Big 12 on Thursday, formally telling the conference it was exploring all its options.

Less than a week after publicly expressing interest in joining the SEC, Texas A&M President R. Bowen Loftin said in a letter to conference Commissioner Dan Beebe that it shouldn’t be considered notice that the Aggies have already decided to leave.

“As I have indicated previously, we are working very deliberately to act in the best long-term interests of both Texas A&M and the State of Texas,” Loftin said in a statement released by the university. “This truly is a 100-year decision. While we understand the desire of all parties to quickly reach a resolution, these are extremely complex issues that we are addressing methodically.”

Loftin received authority from the board of regents to take any action he deems necessary in terms of realignment on Aug. 15, a day after the SEC said it was happy with its current 12-school membership but left the door open to expansion. The SEC declined comment Thursday.

If Texas A&M leaves the Big 12, the move could create a shake-up across college sports. In 2010, Texas considered offers to join the Big Ten and the Pac 10 before deciding to stay in the Big 12. Nebraska (Big Ten) and Colorado (Pac-12) left the Big 12 in July.

Beebe said the Big 12 board of directors will discuss the letter.

“It remains our strong desire for Texas A&M to continue as a member of the Big 12 and we are working toward that end,” Beebe said in a statement. “However, if it is decided otherwise, the conference is poised to move aggressively with options.”

Photo by Tony Gutierrez | AP

In this Jan. 7 file photo, Texas A&M head coach Mike Sherman, left, looks on from the sideline during the second half of the Cotton Bowl against LSU in Arlington. Texas A&M considered a move to the Southeastern Conference last year before deciding to stay in the Big 12. Now many are wondering if the Aggies’ days in the Big 12 are numbered, and what that could mean for the future of the conference.

Loftin said last week that he first approached SEC Commissioner Mike Slive on July 21 about Texas A&M’s interest in the SEC. He also said the Aggies would consider what their departure would mean for the future of the Big 12 before making any decisions.

Texas A&M athletic director Bill Byrne said he supports Loftin’s “desire to explore all options” concerning the future of the university.

“We all want what is best for the Aggies,” Byrne said in a statement released by the school.

“I’ve met with all of our head coaches to keep them informed and we all remain excited and optimistic about the future of Texas A&M athletics.”

In the letter, Loftin asked that the conference outline the process Texas A&M should follow if it decides to leave.

Loftin said if the Aggies leave, they would want to do it in a way that complies with league bylaws and supports efforts to seek a new member of the conference.

The school would presumably face some kind of exit fee.

Loftin has said financial consequences will certainly factor into

BOYS Continued from Page 1B room for improvement because we just finished phase one of four.”

The Hawks are currently ranked No. 2 in the state in the 3A division and have been looking sharp.

Garza has worked his way to the No. 1 spot after spending last year as the No. 7 runner on the Hawks

team. He broke through at last year’s state meet, finishing as the No. 4 runner on the team.

“This year, he busted out and claimed the top spot,” Escamilla said.

Garza will have some healthy competition from Benavidez and Rodriguez, who were the top track and

cross country runners last year.

“Having all three guys up there should better our team performance,” Escamilla said.

The Hawks are at the RGV Classic in Edinburg this morning, attempting to make it two wins in a row.

COWBOYS Continued from Page 1B One more thing: He would like to see it quickly.

Whether the starters play in the third quarter will depend on how well they meet their objectives in the first half.

“I don’t have a specific play number for anybody, but play more, play the bulk of the first half if not into the third quarter,” Garrett said. “The game will dictate that. If they go three and out, three and out, three and out, three and out, they’re going to play more than those series because we need to get more plays, we need to drive the ball a little bit.”

He was talking mostly about the offense, the unit he coordinates. He’d be thrilled if Dallas’ defense was only on the field three plays at a time.

“I think our defense, like our football team, is a work in progress,” Garrett said. “The defensive system was not in place last year like our offense and kicking game systems have been in. They’ve had to learn more quickly.

They’ve had to understand how to make adjustments and be resourceful more quickly than the other units have. ... We’re a long way off in all areas, but I think we’ve made some progress there and hopefully it will show up on Saturday night and through the rest of the preseason.”

Dallas is 1-1 this preseason, winning the opener against Denver when Romo and the offense played just a single series and losing to San Diego this past Sunday night while showing a lot of room for improvement on both sides of

the ball.

Although there’s a fourth preseason game still to be played, this is considered the dress rehearsal because the Cowboys aren’t likely to use their starters in the finale to keep them healthy for the regular season. They’ve even watched some film of the Vikings.

“It’s not as extensive as a normal game-planning week in the regular season,” linebacker Keith Brooking said. “But you do try to simulate it as much as possible.”

After two home games, they also get to see what it’s like playing somewhere else.

“It’ll be a good test for us to get a lot of drives going, to test our wind, to test our communication on the road,” tight end Jason Witten said.

Position battles still going on include seventhround pick Bill Nagy trying to nail down the starting spot at left guard and Kevin Ogletree ensuring he deserves to be the third receiver. Phil Costa is still trying to snatch the starting center job from veteran Andre Gurode. Whether Costa gets any snaps with Romo will be an indication of how intense that competition is.

Kicker might be the most difficult to decide.

Undrafted rookie Dan Bailey didn’t get a chance to kick any field goals against the Chargers, and now he’s joined in the competition by veteran free agent Shayne Graham. There’s also incumbent David Buehler, who’s availability depends on his hip injury.

Like Choice and Murray, Brooking returned to practice this week and could play for the first time this preseason.

Cornerback Mike Jenkins has done some work but may be more iffy as he recovers from a stinger.

“We just have to be careful with him,” Garrett said. “He’s done a nice job the last couple of days in practice just working and getting his practice reps in without hitting that thing where he would take a backward step. We have to see how he responds to the work the last couple of days and then make that decision about (today).”

Fellow starting cornerback Terence Newman remains out, which means newly re-signed Orlando Scandrick is certain to start regardless of Jenkins’ status.

The Cowboys wrapped up training camp Thursday. They spent two weeks practicing at the Alamodome, then kept it going for two weeks in Arlington.

Players lived in a hotel near Cowboys Stadium and rode buses back and forth for practices. They were a short drive from their families, but were hardly allowed to see them.

“This has probably been one of the more productive camps I’ve been involved in,” said Witten, who went through four training camps under Bill Parcells and four under Wade Phillips. “We’ve gone about it the right way, as Jason says. We know we’ve got a long way to go. We’re just getting started. We want this thing to go on until February.”

any decision A&M makes about its future.

The Big 12, including Texas A&M, agreed to a 13-year television deal with Fox Sports in April worth more than $1 billion.

There is a chance the contract could be voided if the Aggies leave the conference, which could lead to legal issues for Texas A&M and its new league.

On Thursday, Loftin reiterated Texas A&M’s reasoning for looking to move conferences.

“Ultimately, we are seeking to generate greater visibility nationwide for Texas A&M and our championship-caliber student-

athletes, as well as secure the necessary and stable financial resources to support our athletic and academic programs,” Loftin said. “As a public university, Texas A&M owes it to the state’s taxpayers to maximize our assets and generate additional revenues both now and well into the future.”

Some are worried what a departure by A&M would mean for the future of the Aggies’ annual football game against Texas, a rivalry dating back to 1894.

Loftin has said he hopes they could continue the game even if Texas A&M leaves the Big 12.

ZAPATA Continued from Page 1B schools and run away with the runner-up trophy.

Edinburg High School captured six of the top eight spots to earn the title. Last year, the Lady Bobcats qualified for the state meet.

“We know that we have a long road ahead of us and we will get faster,” Zapata coach Mike Villarreal said. “We still have 7-8 girls battling for the open varsity spots, so it should bring out the best in all the girls involved. No one of them can relax because someone is always trying to beat them.”

Sophomore sensation Jazmine Garcia grabbed sixth place to pace the Lady Hawks. Erika Hernandez and Cassie Pena followed closely and placed ninth and 13th, respectively, to add points for Zapata.

Garcia, Hernandez and Pena are the only returning team members from last year’s state qualifying team.

Some new faces to the team are sophomore Sara

Pena and junior Wendy Medina.

Currently the Lady Hawks are in a deadlock with several runners competing to crack the four varsity spots left on the team.

“There are seven girls who have really dedicated themselves and are determined to crack the varsity,” Villarreal said. “This should create some healthy competition amongst teammates, which will in turn make us a better team.”

Freshman Bianca Gonzalez opened eyes when she blazed through the course and was clocked at 10:39 to capture the individual girls’ title in the junior varsity division.

Newcomer Janet Chapa, who was making her cross country debut, followed Gonzalez closely.

Chapa finished in third place.

Five other Lady Hawks earned top 15 honors: freshman Maria Rodriguez (seventh), junior Angela Darnell (eighth), freshman

Alexandra Garcia (10th), sophomore Daniela Vela (13th) and sophomore Norma Cepeda (15th).

The junior varsity girls were able to earn the only team title and outlasted Edinburg to the end.

The freshman girls’ team came away with a perfect score of 15 points to run away with the team title.

Another newcomer, Bianca Ponce, fought hard for her first individual win. Other teammates contributing to the win were Maria Angeles (second), Nadya Mercado (third), Kassandra Galvan (fourth) and Emily Salinas (fifth).

Lily Garza and Corina Martinez battled to the finish to place seventh and eight, respectively.

“These girls have sacrificed their summer to train to be the best they can possibly be. I am proud of their efforts and their commitment to our program,” Villarreal said.

Zapata is in action this morning at the RGV Classic in Edinburg.

SANDOVAL Continued from Page 1B previous night’s out-oftown trip.

No, I don’t miss the vast amount of paperwork that coaches must have in place in order to put a team on the floor, from the UIL eligibility to the letter to the teachers that the athletes will miss class to the travel packet that we had to have to travel out of town.

No, I don’t miss the grade check that you had to conduct to make sure your athletes were passing and eligible for the upcoming season.

Nowadays, coaches have to deal with so many things outside of coaching that they get excited when they are able to get on the court or on the field.

Coaches play many roles in an athlete’s life. Sometimes they play the role of the parent, because the athlete comes from a single-parent home, or even a

Sometimes they play the role of the parent, because the athlete comes from a single-parent home, or even a counselor, because the athlete needs to talk to someone and they trust you. counselor, because the athlete needs to talk to someone and they trust you.

The years where coaches were coming flowing out of colleges are no longer the case.

People see that the coaching world has become very political, just like anything else, and they get discouraged.

Coaches that coach for 30 years or more, I tip my hat to you, because finding someone that is close to reaching that milestone is becoming scarce.

All I know is that I really enjoy writing and coaching has taken a back seat to anything that I do today.

Writing does not even seem like work, not like coaching, and I will continue to write until I don’t enjoy it any longer. The day that writing seems like work is the day that I will walk away from it.

I don’t see it happening anytime soon.

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

SATURDAY, AUGUST 27, 2011

THE ZAPATA TIMES 3B

HINTS BY | HELOISE Pets Break Out of Saturday Slot Dear Readers: You have spoken! Recently, when asked about a possible update to the Heloise Saturday PET COLUMN that has been running a long time, you responded! I wanted to know if you would like to keep the column all animal- and petrelated, or a mixture of hints, with pet hints spread throughout the week. Read on for a very small sample of your feedback: * My feelings about having the “pet day” on Saturday is — don’t change a thing. For my wife and me, Saturday usually is a laid-back, restful day. It’s an opportunity to better appreciate our pets and other animals in our lives.

— Walter in Spearfish, S.D. * Heloise, I love your column and especially look forward to your pet column. I can’t think of anything that will make it better than it already is.

Please keep it going. You do an excellent job! (Jenna, my dog, loves it, too!)

— Pam, via email * I say to keep the pet column. I get it on Saturdays in the Little Rock, Ark., paper, and I look forward to it because I am an animal lover and have three dogs and two cats.

But if you do go scattering pet hints throughout your columns, fine. — M.J. in Arkansas * I would love to see everyday household hints in the pet column! I don’t have pets, and while I read you anyway, it would be terrific if you spread things around so we all get something we’re interested in. Thanks for asking; I never thought of writing

“

HELOISE

you with my thoughts! — Bonnie in New Hampshire * I love pets as much as the next person, but I really don’t like an entire column devoted to pet hints.

Thanks for the opportunity to speak out. — Judy in Pennsylvania * Spread the pet hints around — we don’t just love our pets on Saturdays. GREAT idea! — Betty in Benton, Ark. Betty, I think you said it perfectly! We do love our pets all week long. So, next week you will see the new Saturday column. You’ll find your pet hints, and hints from the Heloise files, spread out through the week. However, the very popular Pet Pal (see below) will remain here, and as always the Pet of the Week photo is on my website at www.Heloise.com.

Please know that this is your column, too. I welcome your thoughts and input. Keep sending your pet hints to share with my millions of readers who, like me, think of our animal friends as part of the family! Cabbie, our mini schnauzer, concurs and says, “Woof, woof, send in those hints to help keep us happy, safe and secure.” — Heloise PET PAL Dear Readers: Connie in Stoutsville, Ohio, sent a picture of her cat, Princess, INSIDE her purse.

Connie says Princess really “gets into” watching over it. A guard dog, yes, but a guard cat? To see Princess, go to www.Heloise.com. — Heloise

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Sports

4B THE ZAPATA TIMES

AP Photo

The Cowboys’ Dez Bryant (88) leaps for a pass while he is covered by San Diego Charger Antoine Cason (2) during the joint Dallas Cowboys and San Diego Chargers practice at the Cowboys football headquarters at Valley Ranch, on Thursday, Aug. 18 in Irving, Texas.

Cowboys’ Bryant matures Second-year WR listens and learns

By JAIME ARON ASSOCIATED PRESS

ARLINGTON — Dez Bryant is listening. And learning.

A month into his second season with the Dallas Cowboys, Bryant has become more than a well-intentioned kid who keeps getting into trouble.

He’s becoming more of a professional.

He understands what’s required from him and what the consequences are if he doesn’t live up to those requirements.

He’s showing up on time for meetings and practices.

He knows his playbook and runs crisp routes.

The fun part is when the ball comes his way. Big and strong, fast and elusive, Bryant believes he can score every time he touches the ball.

“That’s the way you’re

supposed to play football,” he says.

That’s also why Bryant was so upset with himself early in the last preseason game.

Tony Romo threw a simple pass that Bryant had to only squeeze and turn upfield for a first down. Yet Bryant took his eye off the ball, looking for room to run before he actually made the catch.

The pass clanked off his hands, sending him to the sideline, seething.

His new position coach, Jimmy Robinson, saw the fit and went to defuse it.

“Hey,” Robinson told Bryant, “that’s your one drop for the year.”

Bryant liked that. Talking about it after the game, he vowed, “It will not happen again.”

It’s unrealistic, of course, but it says something about the growth and maturity the Cowboys are hoping to see from Bryant, especially after his wayward summer — a dizzying series of inci-

dents involving jewelry, lawsuits, baggy pants and mall security guards — left some wondering whether he’d ever get his act together.

Management had enough faith to clear a starting job for him by releasing Roy Williams.

They also took the calculated risk of bringing in Robinson as Bryant’s new mentor.

The risk was that Bryant had become close with his position coach, Ray Sherman.

The calculation was that coach Jason Garrett has known Robinson for more than a decade and was sure he’d be up to the challenge.

It helps that Robinson has an impressive list of receivers who have thrived under his tutelage: Marvin Harrison, Andre Rison, Amani Toomer, Ike Hilliard, Joe Horn and the guys from Green Bay who won the Super Bowl last year, with Robinson as part of that staff.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 27, 2011