July 8, 2016 Progress Times by Progress Times

Friday, July 8, 2016

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XXXXXXXXXX Chimney Park recovers from tornado

By Lea Victoria Juarez t’s been a little more than a month since a tornado tore through Chimney Park RV Resort in Mission. The storm, which occurred the night of May 31, caused damage to the city of Granjeno and parts of Mission. Chimney Park had entire RVs flipped over and some residents in the 55-plus community are still missing belongings, but the recovery is going smoother than expected, according to park managers Wendi and Lloyd Burns. “The first day someone asked me ‘Where you gonna start at?’ and I looked around and said ‘Where do you want me to start?’” Lloyd Burns said with a laugh. “It was just a mess, but we just started little by little. There’s still a little bit of debris left in the park; we’re slowly getting it out.” About 40 percent of the park is restored, the park managers of four years said. Lloyd Burns said he expects to have the business fully functioning by the fall. The biggest struggle has been cleaning up the debris, a process that was about 90 percent complete as of July 5, Lloyd said. The residents have filled about six rolloff dumpsters with the wreckage. Each dumpster cost about $550, according to Burns. But some of the debris flew to Mexico’s side of the Rio Grande River, and the park managers don’t have any plans to retrieve the remains yet. “We keep thinking about things and we never saw them during the clean up. So I guess it’s all lost,” Wendi Burns said. About 12 residents were

living in the park when the storm hit, one of which was inside his trailer when the tornado winds caused the unit to flip, but no one in the park was injured, Wendi said. Most of the residents are Winter Texans, and about 300 people are on site when the park is full. Many of the tenants have returned to the Valley to asses the damages to their units, a few homes have been completely restored and several are currently being repaired. Lloyd said some residents are waiting until they return in the fall to fix their homes. Ron Greenup had his porch roof torn off, the side of his RV unit was “beat up” and his roof has a few holes in it, he said. The damage is going to cost about $8,000 to repair, but Greenup doesn’t have insurance, and he is ineligible to receive help from the Federal Emergency Management Agency because he isn’t a permanent resident at Chimney Park.

Slabaugh Avenue was renamed José R. Perez Street in honor of the deceased volunteer firefighter. Courtesy photo

City street renamed after volunteer firefighter

M TOP: Roofers from J. Martin Enterprises repair Ron Greenup’s roof in Chimney Park. ABOVE: A home at Chimney Park that was damaged in the May 31 tornado. Photos by Lea Victoria Juarez

“It’s been a little stressful but it’s not all the storm damage. I’ve got some medical problems too and I’ve had to break away from that,” Greenup said. “I’ll hopefully be able to fix it but I’ve got to get back. It’s been a hurryup-and-get-it-done thing.” Greenup, a Missouri native and Winter Texan of six

Peñitas collects $54k in taxes

By Lea Victoria Juarez bout $54,000 in delinquent taxes has been recovered from the city of Peñitas between Oct. 1, 2015 through May 31, 2016. With the city only about three quarters through the fiscal year, attorney Michael Cano from Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson, LLP said the firm has recovered about $10,000 more in delinquent taxes than in the same amount of time during the previous fiscal period. “Our report outlines the effort that we’ve made to contact the taxpayers, let

them know that they’re delinquent and how we try to bring them in and work out some type of payment arrangement with them,” Cano said. “We make telephone calls, personal visits and at times we do file lawsuits and do what is necessary to recover the city’s interest.” The money from the tax collection is placed in the city’s general fund to be dispersed on an as-needed basis, City Manager Omar Romero said. “It gets allocated to different necessities. We have more money, we can plan for more or hire more staff,”

Romero explained. “It gets dispersed depending on where we need to allocate the money.” Cano also explained that 100 percent of the money goes back to the city because the firm works for free for the city. However, the attorneys do charge a 15 percent late fee to the taxpayers, which does go back to the firm. Cano said the firm has collected about $8,000 in late fees for the fiscal year. The Peñitas city council approved a resolution to foreclose an abandoned property at 1713 Military Road. The owners hadn’t paid taxes in

years, was in Missouri when the storm hit. He wasn’t able to check on his parttime home until about three weeks ago because he was in the hospital. He has heart problems, he said. As soon as he is finished with his RV, he has to go back to Missouri

See CHIMNEY PARK 11 about 14 years and the Linebarger attorney reported a little more than $1,500 owed to the city of Peñitas. “We usually recover anywhere from 30 percent to about 50 percent of what was owed to the municipality. In this particular case, we collected $2,300 through the bid process, which is significantly more than what was actually owed to the city,” Cano explained. “So this is a very beneficial sale because we can hopefully remove this eyesore from the community.” The attorney said the firm hopes to finish off the fiscal year with stronger numbers than the previous fiscal year.

By Jamie Teviño any in the community considered former volunteer firefighter José R. Perez to be the anchor of the Mission Volunteer Firefighters for 39 years, Fire Chief Rene Lopez Jr. said. On June 30, the city of Mission held a ceremony to rename Slabaugh Avenue after Perez, who passed away two years ago at the age of 73. He was still on active duty at the time. Lopez spoke highly of Perez and his contributions to the department and city as a whole. “He was the kind of person who, no matter when you called him, he showed up,” Lopez said. “Of course, in his later years, we didn’t want him to fight any fires, because of the strenuous activity. So he was dispatching a lot.” Lopez also talked about how dedicated Perez was to his work. “He’d come in the middle of the night, work twelve-hour shifts,” Lopez said. “When it was hurricane season he’d work three days straight, so he was very active in that sense. And of course he’d help us with policies and procedures, and making sure we did things right. He never said no.” Perez had already been working with the volunteer firefighters for two years when the chief first started with the department in 1979. Lopez described his

and Perez’s first meeting, they responded to a house call while on duty. “They had told me to move one of the firetrucks,” Lopez said. “And I ran into him. In the 70’s, the volunteers would take their personal vehicles to the fire scene, and I backed up into his truck.” Lopez recalls that being the moment he first got to know Perez well, and that he was very understanding and forgiving about the whole situation. “I offered to pay for it, and he said ‘Ah, don’t worry about it, don’t worry about it,’ even after insisting,” Lopez said. “He (was always endearing), he was basically the same age as my dad.” Lopez calls Perez a source of inspiration to the department, and mentioned how well-spoken the man was and how good the advice he gave was for the team. He said the street sign would mean a lot to Perez because it runs right by both the Mission Fire Department and the Catholic War Veterans, who Perez was also very involved with. “There’s a legacy here, we’ve had other generations, and he’s one generation that’s passed,” Lopez said. “It’s to remind people that there’s not just us right now, there’s been several generations in the past who have made this department what we are right now. Because of them, including José Perez, we are where we’re at right now.”

INSIDE

Neighbors celebrate July 4

Fifth annual Pokemon festival

Skeet shooting competition

A Palmview resident gives back to her country through decorations and inspires neighbors to do the same for Independence Day.

Gear up as your favorite character, choose your best Pokémon game cards and make your way to the fifth annual Poke’fest in McAllen. See story page 3

The Penitas Fire Department will host a skeet shoot fundraiser on July 30 to raise money for the department.

See story page 8

INDEX

Entertainment | pg. 3

Lifestyle | pg. 2

Opinion | pg. 4

Obituaries | pg. 9

See story page 5

Classifieds | pg. 11

lifestyle

EVENTS Events Calendar CALENDAR

July 9 – Toddlers can learn more about nature and birds at the next monthly Edinburg World Birding Center Toddler Play Date. For ages 1 to 4, it runs from 9 to 10:30 a.m. each month and may include interactive puppet shows, storytelling, crafts, free time and guided nature walks. Cost is $2 and free for one guardian. Space is limited; registration is required. To register, call 383-9922. The EWBIC is located at 714 S. Raul Longoria Rd. July 12-14 – The Edinburg World Birding Center Tots Nature Camp is designed for toddlers ages 1 to 3 and their parents to explore nature in a secure and safe environment. It runs from 9 to 11 a.m. each day. Camp fee is $10 for EWBC members and $14 for non-members. The registration deadline is one week prior to the camp. Registration is required as space is limited. Full payment is due two days prior to the camp. For more information or to register, call 956-381-9922. The EWBC is located at 714 Raul Longoria Rd. July 14 – The Museum of South Texas History begins its Summer Nights at the Museum with the first installment of the three-night series at 7 p.m. The museum will come to life with costumed interpreters, hands-on activities and outdoor fun. Each night will provide a new adventure each evening. Guests who attend and play the “Find Me if You Can” game at all three Summer Nights at the Museum will have a chance to win a grand prize. The event is included in the regular admission price (passes and coupons excluded). The museum participates in the Blue Star Museum for active duty military personnel and family members to receive free admission. The museum is located on the courthouse square in downtown Edinburg. Call 383-6911 for information. July 16-17 – Attend the Gladys Porter Zoo Family Starlight Sleepover from 6:30 p.m. on Saturday to 8 a.m. on Sunday at the South Texas Discovery Education Center. The zoo is located at 500 Ringgold in Brownsville. Families will challenge their senses as they observe nocturnal animals and tour the zoo at night. It’s a sleepover in an air-conditioned building. There will be games, a pizza party, an early morning outdoor breakfast and more. Cost is $25 per person. The minimum age is 7. For more information, call 956-548-9453, Ext. 337, or e-mail educ@ gpz.org. July 19-22 – The Eco-Explorers Nature Camp at the Edinburg World Birding offers children ages 6 to 9 days filled with games, investigative activities, crafts and time to explore the outdoors. It runs from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. each day. The fee is $36 for EWBC members and $44 for non-members. The registration deadline is one week prior to the camp. Registration is required as space is limited. Full payment is due two days prior to the camp. For more information or to register, call 956-381-9922. The EWBC is located at 714 Raul Longoria Rd. July 19-22 – Roar like dinosaurs and dig like paleontologists in a week of paleomania at Quinta Mazatlan from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. The camp is geared for six to eight year olds. Fees are $50 for resident and $60 for non-resident. Breakfast and lunch will be provided. Quinta Mazatlan is located at 600 Sunset Dr. Call 681-3370 for more information. (For daily events and upcoming weeks, see the full calendar at ptrgv.com.)

PARKS CALENDAR

REUNIONS &MEETINGS

July 8, 2016

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NEWS | SPORTS | ENTERTAINMENT | PHOTOS

Engineering meets entrepreneurship during UTRGV Innovation camp

Refuge announces fee changes

n order to better manage the hunt program starting with the 2016-2017 hunt season, the Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge (LANWR) and Lower Rio Grande Valley National Wildlife Refuge (LRGV) will offer their quality hunt opportunities through Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s (TPWD) on-line only public hunt draw system. TPWD is a provider of drawn public hunts through an online only drawing system that offers loyalty points, secondary draws, secure online ordering, multiple purchases, online payment and online order confirmation. Through this system TPWD brings manual paper processes online, including public hunt applications and public hunt permits. TPWD is focused on rapidly delivering effective solutions to reduce paperwork, increase efficiency, expand service availability, and enhance customer satisfaction. There is a onetime on-line registration as part of the TPWD system that also improves program efficiency. Under this system a hunter doesn’t have to re-register or re-apply every year. All TPWD managed hunt areas and U.S. Forest Service lands in Texas are currently using this system with great success and by being part of this system LANWR and LRGV hunters can easily apply for many hunts throughout Texas. Hunters will be able to browse the drawn

hunt catalog by refuge, hunt category, and location using interactive maps. Permits will be issued by e-mail and can be printed or stored on a mobile device. Hunters will also have more time to apply; up to 11:59 p.m. on the deadline date. Application submittal starts in July. This will eventually become a one-stop shop for Federal and State public hunting opportunities in the Texas. Under this program, hunters will be able to submit complete and accurate applications. This will eliminate disqualifications. Hunters can apply alone or as a group, browse hunts year round and create and manage an account to check the status of all applications, permits, and loyalty points. To properly and efficiently manage this on-line only public hunt draw system, TPWD requires that the LANWR and LRGV adopt their permit categories and fees. A $3 application fee per hunt is required for all adult hunters applying for permits under this system. Selected hunters will be notified by e-mail and will then have to pay on online permit fee of either $80 for standard hunts (1-3 days) or $130 for extended hunts (4 or more days). TPWD will start accepting applications July 1st. There are no application costs or draw hunt permit fees for youth hunters between the ages of nine and 16.

Disaster relief available for historic properties

USTIN – The Texas Historical Commission (THC) can assist property owners, local officials, and government agencies in communities impacted by the recent weather events in Texas. In Texas, both disaster

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preparedness and disaster relief are coordinated by the Division of Emergency Management. With a federal disaster declaration, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will become involved. The use of federal funds to assist communities after a disaster is subject to review under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act when the clean-up and repair work impacts historic properties. In these situations, federal agencies will consult with the THC to ensure that the historic resources are protected. The THC can advise owners of historic properties on the proper clean-up, rehabilitation techniques, and technical preservation issues in the aftermath of a disaster. THC staff can make site visits as needed to assist property owners as they plan for disaster recovery. In addition to preserving historic properties, the THC website contains resources for the treatment of damaged museum collections and information from the Texas Department of Transportation addressing flood damage to truss bridges. For more information, contact the THC’s Division of Architecture at 512-463-6094 or visit www. thc.state.tx.us/disaster.

By Neiby Rodriguez Rangel

he University of Texas Rio Grande Valley taught area high school students some valuable lessons about engineering and entrepreneurship, during a month-long Engineering Innovation Summer Camp held last month. UTRGV’s Texas Manufacturing Assistance Center (TMAC), College of Engineering and Computer Science and the Robert C. Vackar College of Business and Entrepreneurship teamed up with IDEA Public Schools to offer the camp, which ran from May 31 to June 24. The summer camp was a part of TMAC’s Striving Towards Educational Pathways (STEP) summer camp that offers secondary-school students hands-on activities to learn more about engineering and technology in hopes of piquing their interest in pursuing STEM-related careers. This year, the camp merged two important career paths: engineering and business. Students worked in “companies,” or small groups, that designed a robot for their customer: the Recycling Centers of America. Each group had to present a business plan, submit a bid and present their “recycling robot” prototype. “We are giving them tools to decide what they want to do. We want to push the STEM careers because there is a shortage and they are needed,” said Milly Hernandez, program coordinator for TMAC. “We also want them to know about the different approaches they can take and that they can open their own businesses and be able to provide jobs in their community.” TMAC has been working with IDEA Public Schools’ Gear Up program for the past four years to offer its STEP summer camp. This camp started with students from the sixth grade and now includes 10th- and 11th-graders. “We’re following a cohort since they were in sixth grade, so right now we are working with rising 10thand 11th-graders,” Hernandez said. “They started coming when they were in middle school and now they’re in

high school.” Alondra Gonzalez, 16, a rising junior from IDEA College Prep Alamo, has attended the TMAC STEP camps for the past three years. “This camp is really great because it helps me get into what I want to do – to become an engineer,” Gonzalez said. “This program helps me see what engineering is all about beforehand.” Elsa Garcia, a 15-yearold rising sophomore from IDEA College Prep Alamo, said this is her second year at STEP camp. “I think this camp is a good idea because you can combine how to manage the products on the business side, and how to make them on the engineering side,” Garcia said. Maria Leonard, a business management professor at UTRGV, was in charge of the entrepreneurial portion of the camp and considers it to be engaging and challenging. “This combination of both the engineering and entrepreneurial careers is much more engaging to the students,” Leonard said. “It’s a great idea to bring students to get a taste of not only what college is like, but also what running a business and manufacturing a product is like. The students will now understand better what career options they have, and will be able to decide what they desire to achieve.” Student volunteers from about 15 student organizations from the UTRGV College of Engineering, and Enactus, an entrepreneurial student organization, were involved in the camp. UTRGV students were mentors and coaches for the camp participants. “These student organizations are spread out throughout the four weeks, and their role is to be a coach and mentor to each of the students,” said Mike Acevedo, 22, a UTRGV electrical engineering major. “They’re here as resources for the students.” TMAC compensates the student organizations for their volunteer hours at the summer camps, which helps them raise money to attend competitions, conferences and conventions. For more information about TMAC and the STEP camp, contact (956) 6657011 or tmac@utrgv.edu.

Area high school students are shown preparing for their presentations during the UTRGV Engineering Innovation Camp, held May 31 to June 24 at the Science building on the Edinburg Campus. UTRGV’s Texas Manufacturing Assistance Center, the College of Engineering and Computer Science, and the Robert C. Vackar College of Business and Entrepreneurship, teamed up with IDEA Public Schools to offer the camp. (UTRGV Photo by Paul Chouy)

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entertainment

Fifth annual Poke’fest July 17

okémon lovers unite! Gear up as your favorite character, choose your best Pokémon game cards and make your way to the fifth annual Poke’fest set for Sunday, July 17 from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the McAllen Convention Center. Share your passion for one of the most popular video-game based media franchises in the world. Be prepared for some cosplay contests, special viewings, card tournaments, scavenger hunts and much more. Local artisans and vendors from all over the Valley will be there with creative crafts, anime costumes, specialized art, jewelry, toys, games and so much more. This event is free to all guests. What is Pokémon? Created in 1995 by Japanese video game designer Satoshi Tajiri, the famous franchise centers on fictional characters called Pokémon. These creatures come in all shapes and sizes and live in

the wild or alongside humans. They do not speak, but instead utter their own names. Pokémon are raised by humans known as trainers. During their adventures, Pokémon grow and become more experienced and, on occasion, evolve into stronger Pokémon. There are more than 700 of these creatures that inhabit the universe! For over 20 years, people of all ages have been entranced by the Pokémon universe, so much so that the franchise has escalated into trading cards, cartoons and video games that are still being produced today. Selling over 260 million games worldwide, shipping more than 21.5 billion cards to 74 countries and more than 800 episodes in its animated series, it’s no surprise that this franchise makes $1.5 billion annually. McAllen Convention Center is location at 700 Convention Blvd.

Black Lighting for Moths Series held at Edinburg Scenic Wetlands

oths are as mysterious as they are beautiful. While some may look plain at first sight, they can be pretty fascinating when we take a closer look. Edinburg Scenic Wetlands & World Birding Center invites the public on Thursday, July 14 from 8 to 9:30 p.m. for the “Black Lighting for Moths” program. Park naturalists and moth experts will look for the variety of moths that flutter throughout the gardens at night. Moths of various shapes, sizes and colors venture out in the evenings while the rest of the world sleeps in search of food and potential mates. By participating in this program visitors will enjoy seeing the different

species of moths with the help of a special moth-attracting light that allows you to get a close up look of these butterfly related insects. A reservation is required at least one day prior to the program because seating is limited. The program fee is $2 for members and $4 non-members. The Edinburg Scenic Wetlands and World Birding Center is located at 714 S. Raul Longoria Road in the Edinburg Municipal Park. For more information call 956-381-9922 or go to www.edinburgwbc.org.

July 8, 2016

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NEWS | SPORTS | ENTERTAINMENT | PHOTOS

Summer nights adventures end July 14

Coming Attractions S

July 14-24 • The Pharr Community Theater presents “El Color de Nuestra Piel,” a Spanish language drama/tragedy called by Celestino Goroztiza. PCT is located at 213 W. Newcombe Ave. in Pharr. For information, call 956-655-9308. July 16 • Chef Landry’s Comedy Show will be held at Town Lake at Fireman’s Park, 201 N. 1st St., in McAllen. The interactive show features Cajun comedy and Bayou style cuisine, preparing meals that include Louisiana staples like crawfish, alligator, crab, shrimp and other delicacies. Fun for the entire family. Space is limited. Three show times at 6, 7 or 8 p.m. Tickets are $5 per person. July 17 • Pokemon Festival will be held at the McAllen Convention Center from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. Gear up as your favorite character, choose your best Pokemon game cards and come out for some cosplay, local artisans and vendors. There will be cosplay contests, special viewings, card tournaments, scavenger hunts and more. The event is free. July 22 • Nicky Jam, Zion & Lennox, Dd La Ghetto and Valentino will perform full sets for The Fenix Tour at State Farm Arena in Hidalgo. The show begins at 9 p.m. Tickets range from $51 to $161 and are available from ticketmaster.com or by calling 800-745-3000. • It’s a Friday Night Honky Tonk from 7 p.m. to midnight at the Boggus Ford Events Center, 3000 N. Cage in Pharr. Tickets are $10 per person and available at ticketmaster.com or by calling 800-745-3000. July 25 • Pitbull heads to State Farm Arena in Hidalgo with “The Bad Man Tour” for a 7:30 p.m. show. Admission ranges from $65 to $175. Buy online at ticketmaster.com or call 800745-3000. July 27 • The Steve Miller Band will perform at State Farm Arena in Hidalgo for an 8 p.m. show. Purchase tickets, ranging from $40 to $145, at ticketmaster.com or by calling 800-745-3000. July 29 • The boxing gloves are on from 7 to 11:30 p.m. at Border Wars IV at Boggus Ford Events Center, 3000 N. Cage in Pharr. Tickets range from $30 to $75 and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com or by calling 800-745-3000.July 25 August 11 • The International Museum of Art & Science continues their Science on A Sphere presentations with “Perseid Meteor Show.” The dome planetarium show, and hands-on science experiments run from 4 to 8 p.m., followed by star gazing outside from 8 to 10 p.m. Bring lawn chairs, telescope or binoculars or use the IMAS equipment for star gazing. The program is included in the regular price of admission. IMAS is located at 1900 in McAllen. Call 682-0123 for information. (To see the complete Coming Attractions calendar, go to ptrgv.com)

ummer Nights at the Museum will conclude Thursday, July 14, in the River Crossroads gallery of the signature Rio Grande Legacy exhibition at the Museum of South Texas History. Activities will begin at 7 p.m. starting with the MOSTHistory Puppet Theater, the main attraction of the night, presenting “I Used to be a Star” in the Courtyard Gallery. Guests can watch the show during any of three performances while enjoying free popcorn. After the puppet show, guests will receive a Find Me If You Can game card to begin their adventure in the River Crossroads gallery. Find characters from the puppet show to complete your Find Me If You Can game card and enter for a nightly raffle drawing. River Crossroads, the third and final gallery of the signature Rio Grande Legacy exhibition, will become alive with hands-on activities, historical reenactors and animated demonstrators showcasing the heritage of South Texas and Northeastern Mexico during the 20th century. Guests will learn how trains, planes and automobiles connected and im-

proved the economic development of the Rio Grande Valley and surrounding communities. Another fun and educational way to discover more about this region is through costumed interpreters. Some will portray soldiers from the 1910 Mexican Revolution and World War II. Hands-on activities will show guests how agricultural irrigation affected the Rio Grande Valley including the water management that propelled the fruit processing industry. Admission to Summer Nights at the Museum is the regular admission price, passes and coupons excluded: Adults (ages 18+) $7; seniors (ages 62+) and students with ID (13+) $5; children ages four to 12, $4; children ages three and under are free. As a participating museum in the Blue Star Museums, all active duty military personnel and up to five family members receive free admission to all three Summer Nights at the Museum. Become a FRIEND of the museum to attend all three Summer Nights at the Museum – and more – for FREE. Learn more about becoming a FRIEND of the museum by visiting www. mosthistory.org/donate-here.

Robotics and engineering workshops at IMAS

MAS is currently registering children, ages six to 14, for their Creativity Garden EV3 and Little Bit Workshops that will be held in July. There will be two workshops designed for different age levels beginning July 9. Children, ages 11 to 14, will be introduced to robotics in the Robot Tech

Workshop. Children, ages six to 10, can participate in the Engineering Challenge Workshop that begins July 14. Spaces are limited, so call to reserve your space. Call 682-0123 for more information, dates and times. IMAS is located at 1900 Nolana in McAllen.

opinion By Ed Sterling Texas Press Association

STATE CAPITAL HIGHLIGHTS

Supreme Court strikes down major changes to abortion law

USTIN — The U.S. Supreme Court on June 27 struck down parts of the state abortion law that Texas lawmakers revised and passed in 2013. The law’s provision that physicians providing abortions must have admitting privileges to a nearby hospital and the provision that abortion facilities must meet minimum standards for ambulatory surgical centers are in violation of the Constitution, the court said in a 5-3 ruling. Justice Stephen Breyer, author of the court’s majority opinion, wrote, “We conclude that neither of these provisions offers medical benefits sufficient to justify the burdens upon access that each imposes.” Furthermore, wrote Breyer, the admitting-privileges requirement imposes an “undue burden” on a woman’s right to choose, and evidence provided by the State of Texas did not show how the new law advanced the state’s legitimate interest in protecting women’s health.

In her concurring opinion, Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg wrote that the Texas law inevitably would reduce the number of clinics and doctors allowed to provide abortion services. “Texas argues that HB 2’s restrictions are constitutional because they protect the health of women who experience complications from abortions. In truth, complications from an abortion are both rare and rarely dangerous,” Ginsburg wrote. Justice Clarence Thomas, in his dissenting opinion, wrote: “This suit is possible only because the Court has allowed abortion clinics and physicians to invoke a putative constitutional right that does not belong to them — a woman’s right to abortion.” Soon after the high court’s ruling was published, Gov. Greg Abbott said, “The decision erodes states’ lawmaking authority to safeguard the health and safety of women and subjects more innocent life to being lost. Texas’ goal is to protect innocent life, while ensuring

the highest health and safety standards for women.” Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton said, “It’s exceedingly unfortunate that the court has taken the ability to protect women’s health out of the hands of Texas citizens and their duly elected representatives.” State Sen. Kirk Watson, D-Austin, however, said: “For too long, the women of this state have been collateral damage in a political battle. I’m hopeful we can now get to work on policies that truly do protect women’s health, such as improved access to birth control and breast and cervical cancer screenings, as well as medically accurate sex education.” The caption of the case is Whole Woman’s Health et al. v. Hellerstedt, Commissioner, Texas Department of State Health Services, et al. Collier to head prison system The Texas Department of Criminal Justice on June 24 announced Bryan Collier, deputy executive director, would succeed the retiring

humanely and have opportunities to report incidents, as well as verify the status, location and disposition of family members. To address this issue, Cuellar helped secure language in the Fiscal Year 2017 Homeland Security Appropriations bill directing the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Office of Inspector General (OIG) to continue reviewing both ICE and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) detention facilities, as well as to include unannounced inspections. These measures would ensure oversight and improvements of: • Detention facility conditions, standards, inspections, and healthcare services  • Provide guidance on the use of segregation  • Improve disability accommodations  • Ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable populations The language states that ICE submit within 30 days of the date of enactment, and semiannually thereafter, an update on its oversight of family detention facilities, including recommendations for improvements made by the Advisory Committee on Family Residential Centers or as a result of ICE’s community liaison initiative. Additionally, Cuellar has helped secure increased funding for the Alternatives to Detention (ATD) Program to save taxpayers from spending extra money on

immigration detention. ATD programs, which include regular check-ins and ankle monitors, provide an alternative route for migrants in ICE custody for whom detention is not legally required. ATD programs have proven to be highly effective, more humane, and far less costly than institutional detention, which is why the Congressman has advocated increased funding for ATD by $11,608,000 above FY2016. For example, a family could be placed on ATD for 1.62 years for the same cost as being in detention for 17 days. A single adult could be placed on ATD for 2.60 years for the same cost as being in detention for 35 days. “While there will always be a debate about illegal immigration, the well-being of undocumented migrants and their families while in custody or in detention is a priority of mine,” Cuellar said. “I included this language to bring greater transparency to the everyday operations of ICE-run detention facilities. I believe in enforcing our immigration laws, which is why I recently secured federal funding for more immigration judges across the country to provide immigrants the opportunity to present their claims in our federal immigration courts. But throughout this process, I also believe in the human and dignified treatment of every person that comes to America’s borders.

July 8, 2016

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NEWS | SPORTS | ENTERTAINMENT | PHOTOS Brad Livingston as the agency’s executive director on Aug. 1. Collier was appointed by the Texas Board of Criminal Justice, a nine-member body appointed by the governor to oversee the agency. Collier, 51, joined the TDCJ in 1985 as a clerk and went on to hold a variety of positions, including correctional officer, parole officer, unit supervisor, program administrator and parole division director. He has served as deputy executive director since July 2007. Hegar: Better roads needed Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar said poor roads cost Texans money and sometimes their lives.

“Yet,” he added, “transportation infrastructure spending positively affects local and state economies by connecting businesses, customers, goods and services more efficiently, which in turn enhances business expansion and road safety.” A study by the Office of the Comptroller indicates that $25 million in road spending in urban areas can add as much as $43 billion to the state economy over time. “In addition to immediate employment in construction and related industries, road projects yield long-term benefits by improving our productivity and economic competitiveness,” Hegar said. To read more, the next monthly issue of Fiscal

Notes, a publication of the comptroller’s office, is available at www.comptroller.texas.gov/fiscalnotes. More counties added to list The Governor’s Office on June 29 announced Gov. Abbott’s federal disaster request had been granted for Individual Assistance for the counties of Fayette, Harris, Kleberg, Palo Pinto and Parker. This adds to President Obama’s June 11 granting of Abbott’s request for Individual Assistance for 12 counties affected by the recent flooding, that included the counties of Austin, Brazoria, Brazos, Fort Bend, Grimes, Hidalgo, Hood, Montgomery, San Jacinto, Travis, Waller and Washington.

State rep. supports transparency in ICE Detention Centers

ongressman Henry Cuellar (D-TX-28) announced he secured language in the House Fiscal Year 2017 Homeland Security Appropriations bill designed to increase transparency within ICE detention centers, as well as increased funding for Alternatives to

Henry Curllar Detention. Concerned with the treatment of undocumented migrant families, Cuellar brought the lack of transparency in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Detention Centers to the attention of the House Appropriations Homeland Security Subcommittee. Reports have expressed concern about the treatment of migrants after apprehension by the U.S. Border Patrol and during transfer to ICE custody. ICE is expected to ensure that individuals under their supervision and custody are treated fairly and

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Upcoming fundraiser to benefit Peñitas fire department

By Jose De Leon III

eñitas has made great strides in moving forward with their first ever fire department, according to Dr. Armando O’Caña, the city’s public safety director. “We had no money and zero personnel when we announced plans to open the fire department [last February],” the 62-year-old said. “Now we have 30 volunteer firefighters and are set to be fully operational by October at the latest. We are in motion for progress.” Seven of those volunteer firefighters are scheduled to attend a weeklong training course on firefighting held in College Station beginning July 24. To cover the expenses of the training, Penitas’ fire department will host a skeet shoot fundraiser July 30 on North 23rd Street. If all goes according to plan, the fundraiser will not just pay for the upcoming trip, it will provide funds for future spending for the department. Skeet shooting is a competitive sport where participants use a shotgun to fire

clay tablets mechanically flung into the air. Teams of three must pay a registration fee of $300 and solo competitors have a $100 registration fee. Participants must bring their own gear. Food, drinks and live music will be provided. According to O’Caña, the seven firefighters they picked to attend Texas A&M Municipal Fire School will go through courses ranging from live fire fighting, leadership development and vehicle extrication. The early bird registration fee for each participant in the program is $625. The seven firefighters will then be certified to train the 23 other firefighters in the department on what they went through to save money on sending more firefighters to the course. Besides funds from grants the department is applying for, O’caña said the fire department is relying on events such as the skeet shoot fundraiser to raise money for the department, calling them crucial. “The alternative is asking the city to pay for us, which would lead to an increase in

taxes so the city can cover our expenses,” he said. “Fundraising is a great way to avoid those tax increases.” Ruben Garcia, the fire captain for the city of Peñitas, agreed on the importance of the fundraisers. Besides the upcoming firefighting training, the fire department needs to pay for new gear for their firefighters such as fire suits for each firefighter. Each suit, which include a gas mask, a pair of boots and a helmet, can cost up to $4,000 each, according to Garcia. The Penitas fire department will also need money to upgrade a used fire truck they bought from the city of Bastrop this past April for $10,000. “The Palmview fire department is currently covering Peñitas as we finish training our volunteers,” the 24-year-old said. “Getting our firefighters ready is key. The city has never had a fire department before and we need to follow all the regulations to make sure we’re setting a high standard that our volunteers are also setting for the city.”

Residential lot in Peñitas rezoned to commercial

By Lea Victoria Juarez

lot near Motel El Arbolito in Peñitas was rezoned from a single family residential district to a commercial parking lot. The Peñitas City Council approved the rezoning at the July 6 city council meeting. The owner of the motel applied to turn the empty lot into a parking lot in order to avoid street parking from pa-

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trons, which can overcrowd the street. City Manager Omar Romero said there have been complaints from residents about excess traffic from cars that don’t belong in the neighborhood. “The issue is that hotel is at the entryway of a residential area,” Romero said. “Anytime you have a business in the residential area people tend to not want it to expand because they don’t

want more people in the area.” Twenty six letters of notification were sent out to residents in the area prior to the rezoning approval, but only six letters returned to the city — four for the rezoning and two against. Now, the motel owner has to apply for a permit to begin construction on the site, which the motel owner will pay for.

Hidalgo County judge makes statement on Zika summit

idalgo County Health and Human Services hosted a statewide Zika summit to coordinate plans aimed to prevent and reduce local Zika transmission. The following is a statement from Hidalgo County Judge Ramon Garcia. “As of now, there are zero localized cases of Zika in

Hidalgo County. However, we must continue to expand our efforts to prevent or delay the arrival of this disease. We are collaborating with cities throughout the Valley to unite our efforts against Zika. Simple measures like using EPA-approved repellent, removing standing water, and wearing pants and long-sleeve shirts can serve

as barriers used towards blocking the spread of Zika. While we have made great strides working with federal, state and regional partners, our greatest ally and preventative measure is the community.” More information and educational resources on the Zika disease can be found at www.TexasZika.org.

City of

Mission

Smoking Ordinance No. 4368 September 26, 2016 Effective Date

Planning Department 1201 E. 8th St. Mission, Texas 78572 (956) 580-8672 View the Complete Ordinance at www.missiontexas.us

Members removed from development corporation boards

By Lea Victoria Juarez

eñitas City Council voted to remove and replace three members of the Economic Development Corporation and the Development Corporation of Peñitas. Mayor Rigo Lopez ex-

plained that the two boards have had an issue with meeting quorum and a change was needed in order for the boards to make progress. “Some of the members are fairly busy so we’re trying to get other people involved that want to contribute to the city,” Lopez said.

Mario Rosales will replace David Peña and Yadira Treviño will replace David Loya for the Economic Development Corporation. Chuy Avendaño Jr. will replace Juan Garcia on the Development Corporation of Peñitas board. The change will take effect immediately.

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UTRGV hosts first U.S. symposium for Latin American academic association

By Cheryl Taylor

rofessors and graduate students from seven Latin American countries are visiting South Texas for the first time to attend a multi-disciplinary research symposium hosted by The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley through July 9. A collaborative effort among UTRGV, La Universidad de Puerto Rico and the Asociación Latino Americana de Facultades de Contaduría y Administración (ALAFEC), the symposium topic is “Quantitative research skills to explore bio-ethical reasoning with an alignment towards sustainable development, fair trade and responsible consumption.” Dr. Havidán Rodriguez, UTRGV provost and executive vice president for Academic Affairs, welcomed the group at the opening reception June 26 at El Gran Salón

July 8, 2016

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on the Brownsville Campus. “ALAFEC is a highly regarded, 50-year-old association,” Rodriguez said. “We are honored that UTRGV was selected to host this year’s symposium – the first time that a U.S. university has been selected as host. UTRGV wants to increase its global presence, visibility and impact. This initiative is certainly an important step in the right direction.” ALAFEC began promoting the interchange of research projects in 2006 and conducts annual symposiums rotating between different countries each year. UTRGV’s selection was largely through the efforts of Dr. Edith Galy, associate professor in the College of Business and Entrepreneurship. Galy’s co-coordinators, both from the University of Puerto Rico, are Dr. Silvia López Palau, professor of accounting and internation-

al business, and Dr. Beatriz Rivera Cruz, professor of finance and economics. “The program is designed for participants to experience a high-level academic experience exploring bioethical reasoning,” Galy said. “Participants are using quantitative methodologies as they collaborate on their ongoing research on sustainability, bioethics and responsible consumerism.” Hailing from Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Ecuador, Mexico, Paraguay and Peru, the participants began their research projects at their home universities. They connected with one another via the Blackboard online teaching site managed by UTRGV’s Center for Online Learning and Teaching Technology. Dr. Gustavo Canatta Piris, professor of economics at La Universidad Nacional de Asunción, Paraguay, said the

Five UTRGV faculty earn prestigious UT Regents’ Outstanding Teaching Award

By Gail Fagan

he University of Texas Rio Grande Valley again has multiple faculty members named in The UT System Board of Regents’ 2016 Outstanding Teaching Award. ROTA is considered one of the highest and most prestigious awards in the nation to recognize teaching excellence. The program recognizes tenured, tenure-track and contingent faculty, including lecturers, adjuncts and instructional assistants, who have demonstrated extraordinary classroom performance and innovative instruction. In all, 60 faculty in the UT System’s academic and health institutions were honored this year. Following are the UTRGV recipients: Art Brownlow, D.M.A., professor of Music, School

of Music, College of Fine Arts (tenured); Stephen W. Crown, Ph.D., professor of Mechanical Engineering, Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering and Computer Science (tenured); Timothy Huber, Ph.D., associate professor of Mathematics, School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences, College of Science (tenured); Alexis Racelis, Ph.D., assistant professor of Biology, Department of Biology, School for Earth, Environmental and Marine Sciences, College of Science (tenure track); and Christine Mathews, Ph.D., Biology lecturer, Department of Biology, College of Science. “These awards testify to the quality of our faculty and their commitment to excellence in serving our students as teachers, mentors and scholars. They are all truly dedicated to ensuring

Mission First United Methodist Church 1101 Doherty Ave.

Mission TX 78572 (956) 585-1665

the success of our students and improving the quality of life for all of the Rio Grande Valley community,” said Dr. Havidán Rodríguez, provost and executive vice president for Academic Affairs. “We salute them and the Board of Regents in acknowledging their accomplishments in such a generous way.” This is the first group of Regents’ Outstanding Teaching Awards presented to UTRGV faculty since legacy institutions UT Pan American and University of Texas at Brownsville combined resources in September 2015 to become UTRGV. Since 2008 when the award was initiated, faculty at UTRGV’s legacy institutions and now at UTRGV have garnered 58 ROTA awards. “UT educators provide invaluable mentorship and deliver high-quality instruction and innovation while enhancing the minds of the

advance work on the symposium before leaving home was helpful. “We appreciate using this technology to collaborate in preparation of being together here at UTRGV. It gave us a good jump start and allows for more efficient use of our time,” he said. Galy said the peer feedback and evaluation taking place over the two-week symposium will result in the publication of multiple articles in academic journals. Dr. Francisco Guajardo, executive director of the UTRGV B3 Institute, said collaborations such as this one are just the beginning of opportunities for students and professors. “The ALAFEC course at UTRGV is an example of instruction being conducted in Spanish at UTRGV, and serves as an instructional and pedagogical practice that UTRGV encourages, as it transforms itself into a bilingual, bicultural, and bi-literate university,” he said.

Professors and graduate students from seven Latin American countries are visiting UTRGV for a multi-disciplinary symposium that continues through July 9. This is the first time the International Research Symposium has been held in the United States, and is a collaborative effort of UTRGV, The University of Puerto Rico and ALAFEC. The primary objective is to unify and raise the level of teaching, research and technical training. (UTRGV Photo by Veronica Gaona)

Palmview community decorates for July 4

By Lea Victoria Juarez

nation’s next leaders. Their deep commitment to outstanding education ensures student success across the System,” Chairman Paul L. Foster said. “The Board of Regents is honored to recognize our dedicated faculty members through the ROTA program.” Award recipients are rigorously evaluated by students, peer faculty and external reviewers on a range of activities and criteria regarding their teaching performance, including classroom expertise, curricula quality, innovative course development and student learning outcomes. Each awardee receives $25,000 and will be honored at a ceremony Aug. 24 in Austin. More than $16 million has been awarded to deserving faculty members since the program began. A complete list of winners by institution will be available later this summer at the Regents’ Outstanding Teaching Awards website.

nited States flags line the sides of a small stretch of north Breyfogle road in Palmview. A few of the residents place their own flags in front of their homes, but majority of the decorations are provided by retired veteran Marilou Prudencio. For about five years, the 77-year old has single-handedly provided United States flags for her neighborhood for the July 4 holiday. It’s her way of continuing to give back to her country, she said. In her youth, Prudencio, who is originally from the Philippines, was an exchange student in Kansas City, which is where she met Dorothy Breyfogle of Breyfogle Road, and developed a love for the United States. In 1973, Prudencio joined the military and in the mid 1970s she earned her citizenship. “Kansas City was so wonderful to me. Everyone was so kind, so I thought, ‘Wow, this is America,’” the 77 year old said. “I thought ‘Let’s do something for America.’ So I joined the military. So ever since, I’ve always had to do something for Independence Day.” But Prudencio’s neighbors Roy and Arcelia Cantu surprised her this year when

they decided to display their own decorations before Prudencio put hers on display. “I put up the flag for our veterans but she (Prudencio) is the captain of this ship,” Cantu said with a laugh. “She’s a very special person and she likes the decorations so we do it for her and our soldiers.” In an effort to get the rest of her neighbors into the Independence Day celebration, Prudencio proposed a decoration contest for the holiday and she provided the top three winners with cash prizes from her own wallet. The top winners are: Roy and Arcelia Cantu, first place ($100); Idalia and Thomas Hernandez, second place ($75); and tied for third place is Oscar Loredo and Julie Caratachea, ($50). But the flags are more than decoration, Prudencio said. They are a reminder of those that lost their lives and continue to do so, either while in combat or through acts of terrorism. “A lot of people died so we could have a flag and independence. I thought maybe this is a way to remind people why we have the flag,” Prudencio explained. “It’s not just a flag, it’s for those that have died way before and those that are dying now.”

Sunday

Worship Times 8:00 a.m. Informal 9:00 a.m. Contemporary 10:00 a.m. Sunday School 11:00 a.m. Traditional 11:00 a.m. Childrens Church 5:00 p.m. Spanish Worship

Everyone is Welcome!

Join us for communion the First Sunday of every month.

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Marilou Prudencio decorates her neighborhood with flags for the Fourth of July and inspired her neighbors to do the same. (Photo by Lea Victoria Juarez)

July 8, 2016

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RGV Diabetes Association hosts cooking classes

he Rio Grande Valley Diabetes Association will host its monthly cooking classes on Tuesday, July 12, 2016 at 420 S. Closner Blvd., in Edinburg, at 5:30 p.m. This month’s class will focus on Zucchini and all its benefits. Nilda Garza, will be preparing a main course and a dessert using this versatile fruit.

Zucchini has a good amount of potassium: 295 milligrams per cup, or eight percent of your recommended daily value. According to the American Heart Association, potassium can help control blood pressure because it lessens the harmful effects of salt on your body. Studies suggest boosting your potassium intake (while also curbing

obituaries

Homero Rodriguez-Barrera MISSION – Homero Rodriguez-Barrera, 61, passed away on Sunday, June 26, 2016 in Edinburg. Survivors include his wife of 39 years, Enedelia A. Rodriguez; children, Gladisbel Espinoza, Sonia Elizondo, Enedelia Reyna and Homero Rodriguez; siblings, Maria del Carmen Sustaita, Maria Luisa Rodriguez, and Adalberto Rodriguez; and nine grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Epifanio Rodriguez and Baudilia Barrera, and brother,Sergio Rodriguez. A funeral mass was held on June 29 at Our Lady Queen of Angels Catholic Church in La Joya. Burial followed at Ruben Solis Cemetery La Grulla. Natalia de la Cruz MISSION - Natalia De La Cruz, 89, passed away Wednesday, June 29, 2016, at her residence. She is survived by her children, Juan De La Cruz of Hereford, Maria G. Benavides of Mission, Carlos De La Cruz of Alamo, Rosa Linda Garza of McAllen, Raul De La Cruz of NM, and Ruben De La Cruz of Mission; 22 grandchildren; 41 great grandchildren; and 13 greatgreat grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Juan De La Cruz; her parents, Julia and Francisco Salinas; and two siblings. Funeral services were held Friday, July 1, 2016 at Vaughan Watson Funeral

Chapel in Edinburg. Burial followed at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Edinburg. Emilia Jaramillo MISSION - Emilia Jaramillo, 54, died Tuesday, June 28, 2016, at Mission Regional Medical Center. Funeral Mass was held Friday, July 1, 2016, at Our Lady of the Holy Rosary. Burial followed at San Jose Cemetery Mission. Roberto A. ‘Robert’ Ontiveros MISSION - Robert Ontiveros, 69, passed away on Tuesday, June 28, 2016 in Mission beside his wife of 43 years, Nora Ontiveros. Ontiveros was born in Monterrey, Mexico on May 13, 1947. He entered the United States in 1955 and went on to serve his country, earning a National Defense Service medal. Robert is survived by his wife; son, Roberto; daughters, Laura Ontiveros and Natalia Quiroz; siblings, Melecio Ontiveros, Antonia Ontiveros, Jose Ontiveros, Cesar Ontiveros, Martha Ontiveros Castillo, Candelario Ontiveros, Jr., Veronica Ontiveros and Julieta Rosenberger; and three grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, Candelario Ontiveros and Martha Ontiveros. A funeral service was held Friday, July 1, 2016 at Apostolic Assembly Victoria’s Life Temple in McAllen. Burial followed at Rio Grande Valley State Veterans Cemetery in Mission. Valerie Jean Martinez

sodium) can slash your stroke risk and may also lower your odds of developing heart disease. Zucchini is also high in the antioxidant vitamin C, which may help the lining of your blood cells function better, lowering blood pressure and protecting against clogged arteries. One cup of sliced zucchini has 20 milligrams, or about 33 percent of

your daily value. Garza has her degree in Home Economics for Texas Women University in Denton,Texas. Mrs. Garza has taught been an educator 38 years. Currently, Gaza is teaching Culinary Arts and Lifetime Nutrition at Juarez-Lincoln High School in La Joya. Garza’s passion is cooking and helping her stu-

PEÑITAS – Valerie Jean Martinez, 31, passed away on Friday, June 24, 2016, at Mission Regional Medical Center in Mission. Ms. Martinez was born in Berlin, Germany on March 31, 1985 to Joe Martinez and Maria Teresa Castañeda. Survivors include her father, Joe Martinez; mother, Maria Teresa Castaneda; and siblings, Carol Barnette, Mary Helen Martinez, Bonnie Marie Martinez and Joey Martinez; maternal grandmother, Beatriz Castaneda; and paternal grandparents, Jose and Ramona Martinez. She was preceded in death by her paternal grandmother, Margarita Martinez. A funeral service was held on June 29 at Lord and I Funeral Home in Peñitas. Cremation followed at Val Verde Memorial Gardens in Donna. Dorothy Follett Morin MISSION - Dorothy Follett Morin, 60, died Monday, July 4, 2016, at the Comfort House in McAllen. Funeral services were held Thursday, July 7, 2016, at Funeraria Del Angel in Mission. Burial followed at Valley Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Mission. Verla Gwen (Leys) Palacios MISSION/DENTON - Verla Palacios, 49, died Wednesday, June 29, 2016, at Denton Regional Medical Center. Palacios was born October 8, 1966 in Rosetown, Saskatchewan Canada to William John Leys and Laverne Marilyn (Orser) Leys. She is survived by her husband, Enrique Palacios; daughter, Ashley Palacios;

sons, Hector Palacios, Enrique ‘Columbo’ Palacios, and Brandon Palacios; brother Randy Leys; sisters, Marilyn Haspany, and Lynda Adams; and two grandchildren. A celebration of life service was held on Sunday, July 3rd.

Notices

Leila Bell Alaniz MISSION - Leila Bell Alaniz , 68, died Saturday, July 2, 2016, at her residence in Mission. Cremation was held Tuesday, July 5, 2016, at Memorial Cremation Center in Edinburg. Carlos Aguilar MISSION - Carlos Aguilar, 70, died Saturday, June 25, 2016, at Mission Regional Medical Center. Jose Barrera MISSION - Jose Barrera, 47, passed away on Monday, June 27, 2016, at Mission Regional Medical Center. Visitation was held for Jose Barrera Thursday, June 30, 2016, at Ric Brown Family Funeral Home in Mission. Patricia Bianski MISSION - Patricia Bianski , 84, died Sunday, July 3, 2016, at Waterford Gardens in Mission. Victor De Leon MISSION - Cremation for Victor De Leon was held Tuesday, July 5, 2016, at Memorial Cremation Center in Edinburg. Concepcion Flores MISSION – Concepcion Flores, 67, passed away on Sunday, June 26, 2016, at Mission Regional Medical Center. Guadalupe Balderas Flores MISSION - Guadalupe

dents make healthy chooses.. The RGVDA will give you tips for eating healthy to satisfy basic hunger until you feel full and simple ways to cut calories and eat fruit and vegetables through out the day. The RVGDA is a local and independent not for profit diabetes association for Hidalgo County. This allows us to provide programs and services Balderas Flores, 73, died Monday, July 4, 2016, at Mission Regional Hospital in Mission. A prayer service was held Wednesday, July 6, 2016 at Lord and I Memorial Chapel in Penitas. Maria De Jesus Gonzalez ALTON – Maria De Jesus Gonzalez, 101, passed away on Saturday, June 25, 2016, at her home. A funeral was held on June 29 at Funeraria Del Angel in Mission. Patricia Galvan MISSION – Patricia Galvan, 47, passed away on Saturday, June 25, 2016, at Mission Regional Medical Center. Juan Garcia MISSION – Juan Garcia, 76, passed away on Friday, June 24, 2016, at Mission Regional Medical Center. A funeral service was held on June 27 at Ric Brown Family Funeral Home in Mission. Burial followed at Valley Memorial Gardens Cemetery McAllen. Rosalba Garcia PENITAS - Rosalba Garcia , 74, died Tuesday, June 28, 2016, at her residence. Claudina G. Gil MISSION - Claudina G. Gil, 91, died Thursday, June 30, 2016, at Mission Regional Medical Center. A memorial service was held Saturday, July 2, 2016, at Ric Brown Family Funeral Home in Mission. Eloy Limon MISSION - Eloy Limon, 24, died Sunday, July 3, 2016, at Mission. Vidal Loya PENITAS - Vidal Loya , 55, died Monday, July 5,

tailored specifically for your area, and guarantees that all funds generated by the RGVDA are used for the residents of Hidalgo County. The classes are free to the public, but space is limited. For information call your RGVDA office at (956) 7821900.

2016, at McAllen. Sofia Guadalupe Martinez MISSION - Services for Sofia Guadalupe Martinez were held Friday, July 1, 2016 at San Jose Cemetery Mission. Melly Meza MISSION – Melly Meza, 80, passed away on Thursday, June 23, 2016, at her home in Mission. Adalberto Munguia MISSION – Adalberto Munguia, 85, passed away on Wednesday, June 22, 2016, at Comfort House in McAllen. A funeral service was held on June 25 at Ric Brown Family Funeral Home in Mission. Burial followed at Valley Memorial Gardens in Mission. David Richardson MISSION - David Richardson, 70, died Wednesday, June 29, 2016, at Mission Regional Medical Center. Luisa Rodriguez MISSION - Chapel services were held for Luisa Rodriguez Wednesday, July 6, 2016, at Rivera Funeral Home of Mission. Interment followed at Havana Cemetery in Havana. Vicente Rodriguez MISSION - A Holy Rosary for Vicente Rodriguez was held Thursday, June 30, 2016, at Rivera Funeral Home of Mission. Francisca Trevino MISSION - Francisca Trevino, 87, died Saturday, July 2, 2016, at Mission Regional Medical Center. Carlos Aguilar Velez MISSION - Carlos Aguilar Velez, 70, died Saturday, June 25, 2016.

OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE

MISSION

PADRES OBLATOS THE FATHERS: †FR. JIM, FR. PHILION, FR. DON & FR. ROY (†MAGNA, †SENTINEL, †MAGNO, †AUGIE, †DIDYMUS, †CHUNKLY, †GIRLY, CANTINA, VALENTINE, NEWLY, BENDITO & CHARLOTTE) MISSIONARY CATECHIST OF THE POOR: SR. LUPITA DAUGHTERS OF MARY MOTHER OF MERCY: SR. ELIZABETH, SR. BIBIANA & SR. MADONNA † DEACON AYALA & DEACON CASTAÑEDA

MASS SCHEDULE “Texas Friendly” spoken at all masses (and confessions) Saturday (English) ........................................... 4:00 P.M. Saturday (Spanish) .......................................... 7:00 P.M. Sunday (Spanish) ........................................... 7:30 A.M. Sunday (English)............................................. 9:00 A.M. Sunday (English)........................................... 10:30 A.M. Sunday (Tex-Mex) Mariachi Mass ......... (Noon)12:30 P.M. Sunday (Tex-Mex)............................................ 5:30 P.M. Monday - Wednesday & Friday (Tex-Mex) ....... 6:55 A.M. Thursday (Tex-Mex) ......................................... 7:00 P.M.

CONFESSIONS

Thursday ....................................................... 6:00 P.M. Saturday......................................................... 3:00 P.M.

620 DUNLAP, MISSION, TX • 585-2623

ONE BLOCK WEST OF CONWAY ON MAGNA DRIVE (6TH ST.)

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July 8, 2016

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UTRGV students undertake challenging trek to Machu Picchu, part of study abroad

By Vicky BritoI

ou need a certain amount of attitude to weather the altitude. UTRGV art students found that out first hand this summer, when they trekked high into the Peruvian Andes to visit the famed Inca ruins of Machu Picchu. Dr. Robert Bradley, UTRGV associate professor of Art, accompanied 10 students to Peru from May 18 to May 31, hiking to Machu Picchu as part of a twoweek study abroad course, “Hiking the Inca Trail.” “It’s really pretty rigorous,” said Bradley, who was hiking this trail for the first time. “It’s a lot of altitude and I thought, ‘Well, could we all do it?’” But the students, both undergraduate and graduate students, were definitely interested. “They came up with a program for physical conditioning before we actually went on

the four-day trek,” he said. “We had no problems.” The course syllabus stipulated that the students would keep a daily journal detailing their observations about the country’s pre-Columbian art and architecture, along with the environmental setting. They hiked a classic Inca Trail, called the Salcantay Route, which climbs to 4,600 meters above sea level, or 15,200 feet. That’s 700 feet higher than the summit of Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the contiguous United States. Preparations began at Cusco – which is 10,000 feet above sea level and the second-lowest point of the trek – to give the group a chance to acclimatize, Bradley said. During the first of eight conditioning hikes, the group enjoyed the ancient Inca stonework around the town of Pisac. The second hike took the group into

Ollantaytambo, an Inca royal estate. “One of my mentors told me years ago, the best way you can understand pre-Colombian people is to walk the trails that they walked and walk the Inca road networks that they walked, because they did this without horses or mules or anything like that,” Bradley said. “This is the best way to really appreciate it.” The conditioning needed for this trek is both physical and mental, he said, and stressed to students that putting their mind to the hike would be key. “You can do a lot of things that you think you can’t do, it’s just a matter of training and wanting to do it,” Bradley said. “I think that is what is really wonderful about these trips. You are using your mind to understand the pre-Colombian world, but you’re also using your body. I was super happy with the success.”

David Ortiz, a senior biology major, said this trek helped him understand a different culture’s traditions and history. “Visiting the ancient ruins was really exciting,” he said. “It also helped improve my Spanish skills by being immersed in it.” He said the hike felt “normal” because of the physical conditioning they put in before the undertaking. “When we completed the hike, it felt amazing and the view was spectacular,” Ortiz said. Junior art major Carla Reimer said each day of this study abroad trip was an adventure and credited the trip with influencing her artwork. “I am inspired to do more and work harder because I know that it is possible,” Reimer said. “To see the incredible accomplishments of the Incas, and even the accomplishments of my peers and I as we

UTRGV art students this summer undertook a challenging study abroad, trekking high into the Peruvian Andes to visit the famed Inca ruins of Machu Picchu. Shown during the hike are, back row from left, Gladys Jiménez, Jim Sykes, Adriana Solis, Erich Keller, Miriam Cepeda, Cesar Valencia and Carla Reimer. Also pictured are, front row from left, David Ortiz, Blanca Ozuna, Amanda Saenz, Dr. Robert Bradley, Aimee Martinez, Daniel Hernandez and Norma Perez. (Courtesy Photo)

hiked, makes me realize that we are so much more than the limitations we put on ourselves.” Reimer said the Salkantay Trek pushed her emotionally, physically, spiritually and mentally. “There were times when I was breathing perfectly fine, then the heights, combined with going down steps, would almost paralyze me with fear,” she said. “Yes, there was some physical pain, but it was so worth it. Everywhere you looked, you wanted to try and capture the

view with your camera, knowing that it would never do it justice.” This trek was Miriam Cepeda’s third study abroad trip to Peru for her Latin American Art History courses. “This was by far the most enjoyable and adventurous trip to the Pachamama. I highly recommend the El Salkantay Trek to the strong, and heed caution to the weak.” Cepeda said that during the four-day hike, the group was confronted with different obstacles ev-

ery day. “Rain, cold, sleet, rocks, clouds, darkness, stars, sweat, tears, blood and, of course, some horse poop. Expect it all when hiking this trail. “As a team, we

accomplished everything together, more than 40 miles at up to 15,000 feet of elevation. If you are seeking a boring, monotonous trip, this is not one of them.”

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Daughter of Hector P. Garcia presents book about her father’s legacy

Dr. Héctor P. García

he Museum of South Texas History (“MOSTHistory”), a museum chronicling the heritage of South Texas and Northeastern Mexico, welcomes Cecilia García-Akers, the daughter of Dr. Héctor P. García, who will present “The Inspiring Life of Texan Héctor P. García” Saturday, July 10, at 2 p.m. in the Courtyard Gallery. Dr. Héctor P. García, a Mercedes native, earned undergraduate and medical degrees from the University of Texas in Austin. García also served with distinction in the Army during World War II. After the war, Dr. García opened a medical practice in Corpus Christi where he witnessed the struggles of veterans and migrant workers, which inspired him to lifetime commitment in social reform. In 1948, Dr. García founded the American GI Forum, which organized veterans to fight for benefits and also against poll taxes and school segregation. García also sought the inclusion of Mexican-Americans into mainstream America, which eventually was recognized when he received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Rea-

gan in 1984. García was the first Mexican-American to ever be awarded the nation’s highest civilian award. C e c i l i a García-Akers, the founding member and Board President of the Dr. Hector P. García Memorial Foundation, is committed to preserving and educating the community about the legacy of Dr. Héctor P. García. García-Akers held her first job as a medical assistant to her father, the late Dr. Héctor P. García, for 10 years prior to completing her physical therapy curriculum. She currently serves on the J.A. Gonzales Education is Our Freedom Foundation Board and the Incarnate Word Academy Board of Directors. Following the presentation, guests can purchase a copy of “The Inspiring Life of Texan Héctor P. García” at the Museum Store, to which García-Akers will be pleased to add her personalized autograph. Sunday Speaker Series is included in the fee for regular admission. FRIENDs of the Museum are admitted free as a benefit of FRIENDship. The museum is located at 200 N. Closner Blvd, in Edinburg. Call 3836911 for more information.

July 8, 2016

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CHIMNEY PARK

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to continue dealing with his medical issues. “I’m just trying to get things back together,” Greenup said. “I like it here. I like this park.” The Burns couple said they’ve received help from multiple agencies, organizations and businesses since the recovery period began. The border patrol trimmed trees in the park, Mission

police and fire departments made lunch for the residents one day, the state highway patrol brought water to the residents and the police department provided security when the park didn’t have electricity for the first two weeks after the storm. “Recovery is going a lot faster than I anticipated. Especially after the first day, when you’re just looking

around and you didn’t know where to begin,” Wendi said. About 100 trees had to be trimmed down due to the storm, but they’re starting to show life again, according to the Burns’. “I’d say all of them except a couple have started putting on new growth. I just wish it would rain now,” Wendi said with a chuckle. “I don’t want rain but I do want rain.”

Commissioners Court Report

Sunny Haven Street ommissioners Court voted to accept a Quitclaim Deed from J.P. Morgan Chase Bank regarding Sunny Haven Street, which was a private road until July 6. The action paves the way for Pct. 3 crews to repair potholes in the subdivision of more than 50 families. Residents had reached out to Commissioner Joe Flores to make much-needed repairs. However, the county can only work on public right-of-ways, and Sunny Haven Street was privately owned by the bank. “We had tried going in there, and then we found out that it was a private road,” Flores said in a recent interview. “It took an act of Congress to convert it back to the county.” District Clerk elected to executive board County Clerk Arturo Guajardo Jr. presented a resolution in honor of his col-

league District Clerk Laura Hinojosa’s election to the County and District Clerk Association of Texas. Hinojosa was elected secretary at the association’s annual conference in June. After her year term, she will may progress to serve as treasurer, then vice president, president and immediate past president in subsequent years. “I am honored to continue serving my colleagues and the Association in this capacity,” said Hinojosa. “My election to the board would not have been possible were it not for my incredible deputy district clerks and administrative team.” In presenting the resolution to commissioners court, Guajardo said: “We’re very proud of her and we know she’ll do an excellent job for us.” McAllen Dynamos The Region III U-17 girls’ soccer reigning champs vis-

ited commissioners court as they head to the U.S. Youth Soccer Region III Presidents Cup national finals in Tulsa. The 398th District Court Judge-elect Keno Vasquez introduced the team. Five players on the team come from the Sharyland school district — two from Pioneer High School and three from Sharyland High School. “Soccer in the Valley is taking off,” said Vasquez. “We should be proud of the young ladies.” Commissioners court members all congratulated the team members and Judge Ramon Garcia invited them back to be recognized when they bring back the national title. The next regular commissioners court meeting will be held at 9 a.m. July 19 in the commissioners courtroom, located on the first floor of the courthouse annex at 100 E. Cano in Edinburg.

The students are Jesus Cantu, MED in Educational Leadership; and John Batiste Madrigal, BA in Communication Studies. UNT is one of Texas’ largest universities, offering

100 bachelor’s, 83 master’s and 37 doctoral degree programs. Many of these programs are nationally and internationally recognized.

Local students graduate from University of North Texas

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NOTICE TO PUBLIC/ AVISO AL PÚBLICO CITY OF MISSION COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM AMENDMENT FOR CONSOLIDATED PLAN AND STRATEGY 2013-2017 In accordance with the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the City of Mission hereby announces a public hearing regarding an amendment to the Consolidated Plan 2013-2017. The Public hearing will be held on Tuesday, July 12, 2016 at 5:30 pm at the Mission City Hall Council Chambers, 1201 E. 8th Street, Mission, Texas. De acuerdo con el Departamento de Vivienda y Desarrollo Urbano de Estados Unidos, de la Ciudad de Mission anuncia por la presente una audiencia pública con respecto a una modificación del plan consolidado 20132017. La audiencia pública se llevará a cabo el martes 12 de julio de, 2016 a las 5:30 p.m. en la Comisión Consultiva de los Ciudadanos de Mission, 1201 E. 8th Street, Mission, Texas. The Proposed Amendment consists of the addition of several goals and priorities to the Consolidated Plan. The amendment is requested in order to address the need for assisting residents who are at risk of becoming homeless and to provide assistance for general public services as well as other activities. La modificación propuesta consiste en la adición de varios objetivos y prioridades para el plan consolidado. Se pide la modificación con el fin de abordar la necesidad de ayudar a los residentes que están en riesgo de quedarse sin hogar y prestar asistencia a los servicios públicos generales, así como otras actividades. All interested agencies and citizens are encouraged to attend and participate in the public hearing. This public hearing is part of the Community Development Block Grant Program Citizen Participation process and complies with program requirements. Se convocan a todos los organismos y los ciudadanos interesados para asistir y participar en la audiencia pública. Esta audiencia pública es parte del proceso de Participación del programa Ciudadano y Desarrollo de la Comunidad y cumple con los requisitos del programa. For more information, please contact the Community Development Office at (956) 580-8670. Written comments will be accepted until August 8, 2016, and may be forwarded to Jo Anne Longoria, Community Development Director, 1201 E. 8th Street, Mission, Texas 78572. Para obtener más información, póngase en contacto con la Oficina de Desarrollo de la Comunidad al (956) 580-8670. Los comentarios escritos serán aceptados hasta el 8 de agosto de, 2016, y pueden ser enviados a la dirección anterior.

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July 8, 2016

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