Friday, March 9, 2018 - PT ISSUE by Progress Times

2018 HIGH SCHOOL

2018 Spring Edition

SPORTS PREVIEW THE In This Week’s Issue: The Complete Soccer, Baseball, & Softball coverage of SCHOOLS

BIG7

Friday, March 9, 2018

www.ptrgv.com | 50 Cents

Vol. 46 No. 30

Court records link former La Joya school board president to gambling raid By Dave Hendricks When investigators raided the Voodoo Lounge last year, what started as a standard gambling case took a strange twist. On paper, Adan Christopher Palacios owned the Voodoo Lounge — a nondescript bar at the intersection of Farm-to-Market Road 495 and Veterans Boulevard in San Juan. He requested a permit from the city. He handled the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission paperwork. And when investigators raided the Voodoo Lounge in mid-November, they found him behind the bar. Investigators seized more than $12,000 and two dozen slot-machine style devices from the Voodoo Lounge on Nov. 11, according to court records. They accused Palacios of paying cash prizes, which violated Texas law. Palacios, though, told a different story. “Mr. Palacios went on to

say that it was a guy from Peñitas or Palmview by the name of Arnold Ochoa who assembled the business,” according to the civil forfeiture affidavit. “He also said that Arnold’s wife’s name is Claudia and that she is in politics.” Former La Joya school board president Arnold Ochoa worked for the Palmview Police Department for 18 years. His wife, Claudia Ochoa, currently serves on the school board. Arnold Ochoa said he knows Palacios and connected him with a business opportunity, but adamantly denied any involvement in illegal gambling. “That he feels he was betrayed or whatever he feels, that’s up to him,” Arnold Ochoa said. “I just hooked him up with those people. And if he felt that, I’m sorry.” The Voodoo Lounge Palacios had big plans for the Voodoo Lounge. Patrons would relax on couches while enjoying

glasses of wine, Palacios said, according to paperwork reviewed by the San Juan City Commission. Attempting to assuage any concerns, Palacios promised the Voodoo Lounge “will not be a typical bar.” He didn’t mention the slot-machine style devices, which became a major attraction for the Voodoo Lounge. The City Commission approved a conditional use permit in February 2017. Palacios started serving drinks two months later, when the Alcoholic Beverage Commission approved a beer and wine permit. Questions about the Voodoo Lounge surfaced during October, when someone called San Juan Crime Stoppers with concerns about illegal gambling. Undercover cops visited the bar. After the undercover cops handed Palacios cash, he provided them with PIN numbers to play the machines, according to the criminal complaint. When they won,

Palacios paid cash. After conducting three undercover operations, investigators started drafting a search warrant. Sweepstakes vs. Eight-Liners How, exactly, the slot-machine style devices at the Voodoo Lounge worked remains unclear. Investigators across the Rio Grande Valley routinely shut down underground game rooms, where customers play slot-machine style devices called eight-liners. They occasionally find virtually identical “sweepstakes machines,” which purport to comply with Texas law. Gambling must involve chance, said attorney Stuart Baggish, who represents an Austin-area sweepstakes company called Tejas Vending. Sweepstakes machines rely on something else: a limited number of entries with predetermined outcomes.

See GAMBLING RAID Pg. 7

Photos of slot-machine style devicA photo of the exterior of the Voodoo Adan Christopher Pala- es at the Voodoo Lounge. (Photos Lounge. Photo by Dave Hendricks. cios. Photo courtesy courtesy of the San Juan Police Deof Hidalgo Co. Sheriff’s partment.) Office.

Palmview, Agua SUD sign interlocal agreements

By Jose De Leon III Nearly two months after a workshop between the city of Palmview and the Agua Special Utility District concerning the incoming Agua SUD Wastewater Collection System, both entities signed two interlocal agreements needed for the project. At the Monday meeting with the utility district, Agua approved interlocal agreements for sanitary sewer connections for vacant lots and for the repaving of streets that were dug up to lay down sewer lines-items Palmview will pay for.

Palmview interim City Manager Leo Olivares told the Agua board of directors the funds raised by both projects would come from a $2.8 million bond the city issued last December that were fully funded as of Tuesday. The first agreement concerns the connections of nearly 330 vacant lots in the city that council is hoping will end up connecting to the wastewater system to prevent those same streets from being torn up to be connected to the wastewater system once the lots become occupied. The city is investing $950,000 for the project.

City leaders stand at the Dog Park at Bannworth Park ground breaking ceremony.

City of Mission Unveils First Dog Park By Jamie Treviño Hoping to instill an appreciation for the city’s animals and promote growth in the area, two new dog parks will be built in Mission’s Bannworth Park and Bentsen Palm Community Park. This Wednesday, the City of Mission held a ground breaking ceremony for their first dog park, located in Bannworth Park. City Manager Martin Garza Jr. spoke at the event, and said that the city was incredibly excited for these new projects. “There’s always a start, a beginning for a new project,” Martin Garza, Jr. said. “And before a ground breaking actually starts, you’d be surprised the amount of time and effort. People coming together in meetings actually make a project happen.” Martin Garza. Jr. credited two people in particular, as well as the entire Mission Pawsible board, for being responsible for the motivation to build these dog parks:

Cathy Garcia and Homer Garza. Garcia, a pastor from Freedom Life Church, blessed the park at the beginning of the ceremony. “It’s a place where families and children and neighbors can come together and enjoy the area,” Garcia said. “It’s a place where we can enjoy and make new friendships.” Homer Garza, a board member of the Mission Pawsible board, first came to the city’s attention because of his defense of Mission on social media. He was happy that the city responded positively to all the ideas Mission Pawsible has brought up in their new capacity. He hopes other cities may follow suit. He credits Mission Pawsible for lowering the city’s euthanasia count, and that it is important to take care of the region’s furry friends. “We’ve saved hundreds of dogs’ lives,” Homer Garza said. “It started out with a

See DOG PARK Pg. 7

Former incumbents fail to gain traction in March primary

“Palmview is funding it and we’re accommodating it and having a separate invoice apart from the Texas Water Development Board for the other connections,” Agua interim Executive Director Eddie Saenz said. “So it’s something that we’ll help them with.” The agreements came nearly two weeks after the city of Palmview filed a lawsuit against the utility district. As previously reported, Palmview is constructing a water lift station to service areas not included in the project. However, Agua is

See AGUA SUD Pg. 7

By Jose De Leon III With a total of 55,277 votes cast during the March 2018 primary election, down by more than 26,000 voters from the March 2016 primary, we’re taking a look at the results impacting western Hidalgo County. Hidalgo County voters overwhelmingly re-elected Ricardo Rodriguez to a second term as district attorney Tuesday. Rodriguez received nearly 80 percent of the vote, or 35,481 votes compared to Rene Guerra’s 9,717 according to results from the Hidalgo County elections website.

Incumbent Rodriguez faced off against former DA Guerra for a second time after unseating Guerra’s 32 year run as district attorney in 2014. Former McAllen Mayor Richard Cortez defeated his Democratic opponent, former county judge Eloy Pulido in the race for Hidalgo County Judge by nearly 5,000 votes. With more than 55 percent of the vote, Tuesday night’s results showed that 24,897 ballots were cast in Cortez’s favor to Pulido’s 20,058. This now clears the path for a race pitting Cortez against Republican nominee

Jane Cross, who ran unopposed in the March 6 primary. Arnoldo Corpus, who previously served as Hidalgo County Justice of the Peace Precinct 3 Place 1, attempted to return to the bench but lost to La Joya School Board Trustee Juan “J.J.” Peña who won the Democratic primary with 71 percent of the vote, or 6,880 votes compared to Corpus’ 2,787 votes. Peña will face Republican nominee Arminda “Mindy” Garza-who ran unopposed-at the Nov. 6, 2016 Texas general election.

INSIDE Daylight Saving Time Reminder: Sunday, March 11

Pioneer FFA at the STAR Show

17 Powerlifting Athletes being sent to State

In 2018, Daylight saving time in Texas will begin at 2 a.m. on Sunday, March 11. This weekend, remember to “spring forward” one hour and change your clocks!

With the recent happening of the 15th Annual South Texas Agricultural Roundup, Luciano Guerra writes about some of Pioneer High School’s competitors and their experience in FFA and the STAR Show.

The Palmview Lady Lobos and the Sharyland Lady Rattlers are sending 17 students to the state competition to be held March 16 and 17 in Waco. Bryan Ramos has more details, inside.

See Pg. 6

INDEX

Entertainment | pg.2

Lifestyle | pg.3

Sports | pg. 6

See Pg. 8

Obituaries | pg. 9

Classifieds | pg. 11

entertainment oming C Attractions

Winner 2017 Fiber Arts People’s Choice Award “Syd the Pig” by Pat Skye

UVAL Fiber Arts Exhibition opens March 10 The Upper Valley Art League’s (UVAL) annual Fiber Arts Exhibition will open with a reception on Saturday, March 10, from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Kika de la Garza Fine Arts Center, 921 E. 12th St. in Mission. The public is invited to the free reception. The exhibition will include artwork by members of UVAL’s Fiber Arts Unlimited group and general members. The theme for this year’s exhibition is “Flights of Fancy.” The fiber art group spends two Mondays a month working together to develop their artworks. It is a dynamic process that includes expanding their knowledge about new materials and techniques to inspire execution in new artworks. Fiber art refers to fine art created with natural or synthetic fibers. There are a wide range of techniques available to manipulate fibers. The hand is the most basic tool utilized for developing artwork. In addition, equipment such as spinning wheels to

spin fiber into yarn, looms to weave fabric, and knitting machines, among others can also be used. The majority of UVAL’s fiber artists, utilize commercially made fabrics that they manipulate and embellish to create their art. A loom will be available in the gallery for visitors to try their hand at weaving. The public will have the opportunity to vote on their favorite artwork. The work chosen will receive the “People’s Choice Award” and will be used to promote next year’s exhibition. Last year’s winner was “Syd the Pig,” by Pat Skye, and is a composition created with fabric and thread. The exhibition will be on display in the UVAL gallery through April 7, and is free and open to the public. The gallery is open Tuesday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Call 956-583-2787 to confirm gallery hours or for information.

MFA benefit concert is March 24 The Mission Firefighters Association (MFA) will host a benefit concert on Saturday, March 24, for Homer Salinas. The concert runs from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. at Ice House located at 815 N. Francisco Ave. Mission. A $5 cover will be charged

at the gate, with all proceeds going to Homer Salinas. Performing for the evening’s musical entertainment will be Kikker Daddy Legacy, Midnight Run, Lonesome Rio and Charlie Garcia.

March 10 • The City of San Benito will host their annual Texas Independence Celebration & BBQ Cook-off at the San Benito Stock Show Fairgrounds, 25699 Cesar Gonzalez Parkway. The event features Market Days, an art show, battle reenactments, food, music and the cook-off. Parking is $5 per vehicle. To be a vendor, call the San Benito Chamber of Commerce at 956-361-9111. For more information, go online to happybirthdaytexas.com. March 13 • The Upper Valley Art League (UVAL) hosts the Rio Grande Valley Woodcarver member Brenda Lodermeier teaching pyrography (wood burning). All materials will be provided. The fee is $25 for UVAL members and $35 for nonmembers. Payment is due at sign up. To register, to become a UVAL member, or for more information, call the UVAL gallery at 956-583-2787. UVAL is located in the Kika de la Garza Fine Arts Center, 921 E. 12th St. in Mission. March 15 • Quinta Mazatlan World Birding Center hosts for John Brush and “The Magnificent Monarch Migration” at 6 p.m.in preparation for the March 17 Monarch Festival. In conjunction, will be the unveiling of “Santuario de la Monarca” by local artist Dalice, which is painted in acrylic and measures 8 by 12 feet and took nine months to create. The program fee is $3 per person. Quinta Mazatlan is located 600 Sunset in McAllen. For information, call 956-681-3370. March 16-17 • The Edinburg Arts Foundation presents the Fifth Annual Artrageious Art Show at the Edinburg Conference Center, 118 Paseo Del Prado. A special showing and reception will be held on Friday from 6 to 8 p.m. Tickets are $40 per person. Call Ramon Vela at 956-607-9048 for information. On Saturday, the show is free and open to the public from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. March 17 • The next “Wine and Masterpiece” workshop, led by Joyce Capen, will be held from 2 to 5 p.m. in the Upper Valley Art League annex. Participants will create a rooster in watercolor using saran wrap and salt with collage elements. Cost is $20 for members and $25 for nonmembers. Class size is limited to 15. Art supplies will be furnished, but students should bring their own beverage and snack. Classes must be paid at the time of registration. Register at the UVAL gallery at 921 E. 12th St. in Mission. Call 956-583-2787 for information. • Head to Quinta Mazatlan World Birding Center for the Monarch Festival to celebrate the annual arrive of Monarch butterflies with crafts, nature presentations, butterfly garden, information, music, art, food and more. It runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is $5 per person. Children age 2 and under get in free. Quinta Mazatlan is located at 600 Sunset in McAllen. Call 956-681-3370 for information. March 19 • The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley faculty artist series features Dr. Krista Jobson, flute, in performance with Dr. Pedro Martinez, trombone; Dr. Oliver Jia, piano; and with the UTRGV Latin Band. The free performance, open to the public, begins at 7 p.m. in the Edinburg campus Performing Arts Complex. (For more Coming Attractions, go to ptrgv.com)

March 9, 2018

page 2

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

NEWS | SPORTS | ENTERTAINMENT | PHOTOS

PALMVIEW – Texas Folklife is looking for the best young squeezeboxers in the state, and is bringing one leg of the 2018 Big Squeeze Accordion Contest to Palmview on Saturday, March 24. It will be held in the Palmview High School mariachi hall from 1 to 2 p.m. This talent showcase will emphasize conjunto, but all genres are welcome. Prizes will be awarded in conjunto, polka, Cajun and Zydeco

genres. Prizes include cash, recording studio time and more. The showcase is free and open to the public. Palmview High is located at 3901 N. La Homa Rd. Contact Texas Folklife at texasfolklife.org/ bigsqueeze2018 or 512-4419255 for an entry form and contest rules and to reserve a spot in the performance lineup.

48thAnnual Dak’ Ee Si Pow Wow The Son Tree Native Path, Lipan Apache Tribe of Texas invites you to their 48thAnnual Dak’ Ee Si Pow Wow on Saturday, March 10. It is from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. at the Lark Library, 2601 Lark Ave., McAllen. The general public of all ages is invited to celebrate and experience American Indian culture and history, drumming, singing and dancing from tiny tots to seniors. Some dances are open to audience participation. Vendors will be selling food, arts, crafts and beads, Supplies, American Indian jewelry, dream catchers, and more. For more information, call Robert Soto at 956648-9336.

VMHS Harlequins team advances to finals The Veterans Memorial High School Harlequins One Act Play Team is advancing into the district finals today, March 9. They will be performing The Mariner by Don Nigro. In addition, team members Samuel Gonzalez and Allison Garza each received an all-star cast award at the zone competition. The VMHS Harlequins One Act Play Team is scheduled to perform at 4 p.m. today in the VMHS Performing Arts Center. Harlequins One Act Play Team is pictured above after the zone competition.

Sunday Service Times: Adult Sunday School 9:30 AM Sunday Worship 10:30 AM Wednesday Services: Adults, Teens, Kids 7:00 PM

lifestyle

March 9, 2018

page 3

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

NEWS | SPORTS | ENTERTAINMENT | PHOTOS

Special Olympians bring home state medals

Special Olympic athletes representing Mission High School (MHS) and Veterans Memorial High School (VMHS) brought home a total of 23 medals from the recent state Special Olympics Bowling and Powerlifting competitions held in Austin and Round Rock. In bowling results, the MHS bowlers finishing in bowling singles include Ana Villarreal, first place; Jackie Porcayo, third; Vianey Campos, third; Raylene Vela, fourth; Ramiro Olivares, second; Carlos Gutierrez, first; and Clifford Wheat, second. Results for the VMHS bowlers in ramp bowling include

Emily Perez Gonzalez, first place, and Jazzmin Villanueva, fourth. In bowling singles, Cesario Pena placed first and Ethan Linares, second. For power lifting, MHS athletes earning medals in their various weight classes and multiple categories included Ashley De La Rosa with a total of three gold medals and one silver. Joel Bravo brought home four silver medals, while Armando Sanchez walked away with four gold medals. Bryan Arellano from VMHS earned two silver medals and two fifth place ribbons.

Mission Crime Stoppers to host bowling tournament

Mission Crime Stoppers will host a fundrising Mardi Gras Bowling Tournament on Saturday, March 31, at Incredibowl, 2140 E. Business 83 in Mission. Tournament play runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Proceeds benefit the Amanda Longoria Scholarship Fund and are awarded to students in the Mission area. In the past, scholarships have been presented to Mission and Sharyland, IDEA and Juan Diego Academy students. Sponsorship levels range

from two- to six-member teams and all bowlers receive a goody bag and one meal combo per player. Sponsorship entry fee is $1,000 for Platinum level for two to four bowlers, plus a free advertisement; Gold - $500, six bowlers; Silver - $400, five bowlers; and Bronze - $300, four bowlers. Prizes will be awarded with trophies for the top three scoring teams. For more information or to sign up, contact Officer Robert Rodriguez at 956648-9326 for information.

Take a Spring Break Safari at MOSTHistory

EDINBURG – Take time to create memories with family or friends during the Spring Break Safari—a week of exploration and discovery adventures – at the Museum of South Texas History on March 13 to 16 from 1 to 3 p.m. The four-day safari is focused on educating and connecting patrons with South Texas history and traditions. On March 13, museum visitors will travel through the River Frontier exhibit and make a stop at the Paleo-Indian and the Coahuiltecan exhibit for storytelling activities with emphasis on family unity. On March 14, “mosey” over to the River Highway exhibit for a picture scav-

enger hunt exploring commerce and trade on the Rio Grande. In the same area, but the following day, March 15, museum visitors will visit the U.S. Army camp to meet camp followers, women who followed the men to war to aid with cooking meals, doing laundry and tending to the sick. A docent portraying a camp follower will describe a typical day at camp. Finally, on March 16, museum visitors will travel to the 20th century through the River Crossroads exhibit. Families and children will have to roll up their sleeves and discover how to use a wash board and churn butter. Participation in the Spring Break Safari is include with regular museum

Mission C.I.S.D. athletes came out strong in the recent Special Olympics bowling and powerlifting competitions. Pictured at left during the bowling competition are, left to right in the back row, Diana Cremar, coach; Jacquelyn Porcayo and Ashley de la Rosa, MHS athletes; Sabrina Segovia, teacher; and Raylene Vela, MHS athlete. In front, left to right, are Ana Villarreal and Vianney Campos, MHS athletes. Pictured at right is the powerlifting team. Back row, left to right, are Everett Castellano, MHS teacher; Bryan Arellano, VMHS athlete; Armando Sanchez, MHS athlete; and Leo Esquivel, coach. In front are Ramiro Segovia, coach, and Joey Bravo and Ashley de la Rosa, MHS athletes.

LANWR needs volunteers

EVENTS

CALENDAR March 10 – From 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., volunteers are needed at the Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife to plant seedlings to create more thornscrub forest habitat. Bring work gloves, shovel, sturdy shoes/boots, water bottle, sunscreen and hat. Water refills and snacks will be provided. Go to fws.gov/ refuge/Laguna_Atascosa, or call 956-748-3607 for updated directions. March 13-16 – Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset in McAllen, has lined up Spring Break activities from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 2 to 3 p.m. Admission is free, and all ages are welcomed. Tuesday: family challenge to find 10 treasures in the woods; Wednesday – create a nature painting with watercolor; Thursday: early culture skills of rope making, fire starting and animal trapping; and Friday: develop lifelong hobbies of birdwatching, learning calls and more. Call 956681-3370 for information. March 23 – Sign up is underway for the Tom Landry Golf Classic hosted by the Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce. It will be held at Cimarron Country Club, 1200 S. Shary Rd. in Mission. Tournament day registration begins at 7 a.m. for the 8 a.m. tee-off. Registration for teams of three is $500, and includes course fees, golf cart, gift bags, breakfast and lunch. For $20, players can purchase two mulligans. Proceeds benefit the GMCC, and a portion of the proceeds will benefit the annual Mission C.I.S.D. Back-toSchool Bash to buy school supplies for students in need. To become a tournament sponsor, or to pre-register, call 956-240-4047 or email events@missionchamber.com. (For more Events, go to ptrgv.com.)

Like Us on Facebook scan this code with your smartphone

LOS FRESNOS – The Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge is looking for volunteers to plant seedlings in order to create more thornscrub forest habitat. The refuge is located at 22688 Buena Vista Road, Los Fresnos and is part of the National Wildlife Refuge System. Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge encompasses more than 97,000 acres, a portion of which are open to the public for wildlife related activities like wildlife watching, hunting, fishing, photography and environmental education. The planting will take place from 8 a.m. to noon

on Saturday, March 10. Volunteers are asked to bring work gloves, a shovel, sturdy shoes or boots, a water bottle, sunscreen and a hat. Water refills and snacks will be provided. Most of the planting will be done near the Scum Pond Trail, with some near the Mesquite Trail. The Habitat Restoration Team and a 12-person ACE crew will be leading the effort. Visit fws.gov/refuge/Laguna_Atascosa for updates and directions. Call Ranger Marion Mason at 956-7483607 for information and group reservations.

VMHS HOSA qualify for state Several students from the Veterans Memorial High School (VMHS) Health Occupations of America (HOSA) Chapter have qualified to compete after the recent Area VII conference. Students compete in a range of skill areas that include writing, speaking, research, medical innovations, community outreach, and public health.

Going on to the Texas State HOSA are Robert Barroso, Emily Salinas, Marissa Rodriguez and Regina Garcia who placed first in Public Health and Teen Dating Violence at the Area competition. Paula Moreno and Alexis Aranda received the Barbara Jordan Service Award for more than 150 hours of service in one school year.

Welcome Aboard

Manuel Morin! Mr. Manuel Morin has joined Rio Script Pharmacy and the Apple Pharmacy Family. Manuel brings a vast knowledge and experience from over 43 years of service in Hidalgo County. We are fortunate to have such an experienced pharmacist on board.

Your Friendly Neighborhood Pharmacy

* Free Valley Wide Delivery

• Immunizations available year round – no appointment needed • 10 Minute Prescription Refills – By phone or in person • Specialty Compounding Available! • Full Line DME supplies and wheelchairs • Free Delivery Valley Wide ( now serving Rio Grande City and Roma) • All insurance welcome (Medicaid/medicare/workman’s comp/chips/private pay) • 90 day prescriptions available!

Rio Script Pharmacy

Apple Pharmacy #1 2501 N 23rd St B, McAllen 956-627-6652

Apple Pharmacy #2 810 E Veterans Dr. Palmview 956-352-6485

Apple Pharmacy #3

RioScript Pharmacy 2308 Expressway 83, Penitas • 956-271-1064

(formerly Paloma’s Pharmacy)

909 Buss. Park Dr, Mission 956-424-6268

Mon.-Fri. 8am-8pm • Sat. 9am-1pm

page 4

March 9, 2018

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com By Ed Sterling Texas Press Association

STATE CAPITAL HIGHLIGHTS

Abbott orders action to ensure safety on juco campuses

AUSTIN — Gov. Greg Abbott is calling for immediate action to ensure the safety of Texas’ junior college campuses following a Feb. 14 mass shooting at a high school in Parkland, Florida. Abbott’s order came in a Feb. 28 letter to Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board Commissioner Raymund Paredes. He issued a similar order addressing the safety of all Texas schoolchildren a week earlier. Abbott outlined steps to be taken by the Higher Education Coordinating Board. “These are important first steps to ensuring that junior college districts are meeting all requirements and have the best information available to help keep their campuses safe,” Abbott said. “Texas will continue to evaluate and improve our approach to ensure our students are safe.” A few among a longer list of Abbott’s suggestions to officials were these: — Catalog, share and distribute campus safety information; — Ensure that all public junior college districts are in compliance with statutorily required school safety audits and multi-hazard emergency operations plans; — Work with the Texas School Safety Center, the Department of Public Safety and the governor’s office to draft recommendations to the Texas Legislature on policy changes to keep students safe. The Texas School Safety Center at Texas State University in San Marcos serves as a clearinghouse for the dissemination of safety and security information through research, training and technical assistance for K-12 schools and junior colleges. Paxton joins AG Sessions Texas Attorney General

Ken Paxton and the attorneys general of six other states on Feb. 27 joined U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions in Washington, D.C., as Sessions announced new steps the Department of Justice is taking to combat the nation’s opioid epidemic. Sessions praised Paxton and the state attorneys general, saying, “Each of them has made combating opioid abuse a priority and has shown outstanding leadership.” Some 64,000 fatal drug overdoses were reported across the nation in 2016. Of those, 2,831 opioid-related deaths were recorded in Texas. Paxton said his office would “continue to do everything it can to protect Texans from the opioid crisis.” In 2017, Paxton and a coalition of officials in 40 other states served investigative subpoenas and additional requests on eight companies that manufacture or distribute highly addictive painkillers. The goal is to collect enough information so that the multi-state coalition can evaluate whether manufacturers and distributors engaged in unlawful practices in the marketing, sale and distribution of opioids, Paxton said. In other news, Paxton was joined by the attorneys general of 15 other states in a U.S. Supreme Court brief supporting President Trump’s proposed travel ban preventing entry into the United States by citizens of a list of countries identified by the State Department as locations of known terrorist organizations. Sales tax revenue is up Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar on March 2 announced state sales tax revenue totaled $2.61 billion in

February, an amount 8.6 percent greater than the amount reported in February 2017. Total sales tax revenue for the three months ending in February 2018 was up 10 percent compared to the same period a year ago, Hegar said. Sales tax revenue is the largest source of state funding for the state budget, accounting for 58 percent of all tax collections, he added. “Increased sales tax collections were spurred by business spending,” Hegar said. “Growth was especially notable in remittances from oil- and gas-related sectors as well as wholesale trade. But collections from retail trade, the sector most reflective of consumer spending, declined slightly from yearago levels.” DPS offers safety tips The Texas Department of Public Safety on March 2 urged Texans to obey all traffic laws and use extra caution when driving during the spring break period, which stretches over the next few weeks. State troopers and local law enforcement in the coastal areas of Texas will be enhancing enforcement efforts, watching for speeders, drunken drivers and seat-belt violators. The DPS offered these safe travel tips: — Don’t drink and drive; — Eliminate distractions while driving, including the use of mobile devices; — Buckle up everyone in the vehicle; — Slow down or move over for police, fire, EMS and Texas Department of Transportation vehicles and tow trucks stopped on the side of the road with emergency lights activated; — Drive defensively; and — Don’t drive fatigued.

Preparing for grand finale bullfight LA GLORIA – Santa Maria Bullring will host the grand finale bullfight of the season on Sunday, March 11. Fred Renk, owner of the bullring in La Gloria, has not only arranged to have Michelito Lagravere and Manolo Martinez, two of Mexico’s premier matadors to perform, but he has also challenged them to fight the huge bulls from El Colmi-

nar Viejo, a breeding ranch ranked among the best of the best in the world. “These bulls can outrun a quarter horse in the first 100 yards,” Renk said. These bulls will charge at anything that moves, said Renk. He added that they learn fast they can only be fought one time with a cape and are then sold to the rodeo world.

Trenton Garcia, a seventh grade student at R. Cantu Jr. High School (RCJH) recently became the first Mission C.I.S.D. junior high school student to perform in a Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA) All-Region Jazz Band. This is the highest level of achievement for middle school students with the TMEA. Auditions were held earlier and included students from Roma to PSJA. Garcia is one of only two guitar players selected for the honor.

The Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce Presents Tom Landry Golf Classic Tournament to benefit Mission CISD’s Back to School Bash

MISSION, TX – The Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce in partnership with Mission CISD, will host its Tom Landry Golf Classic on Friday, March 23, 2018 at 8:00 a.m. at the Club at Cimarron located at 1200 S. Shary Rd. in Mission, Texas. The format is an 18 hole, three (3) player team Scramble. Funds generated from the tournament will provide over 2,000 backpacks for the Mission CISD Back to School Bash. “The backpacks our students receive through the help of this golf tournament can have a huge impact for the students and their families as they prepare for the start of school,” said Cris Valdez, Mission CISD interim superintendent. “This not only helps families make sure their children have what they need to start the school year, it also can help them stretch thier back to school budgets.” The Back to School Bash is about more than just distributing backpacks with school supplies. “The festive atmosphere is designed to get everyone in

the community excited about the start of a new school year and it also offers a true, one-stop-shop event for many back to school related needs,” Valdez said. Sponsorship and promotional opportunities for the Tom Landry Golf Classic are still available by contacting the Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce at (956)585-2727. Teams are welcomed to participate deadline for teams and players is Friday, March 16,2018. For more information, call (956)585-2727. Tom Landry Golf Classic: • $20,000 cash prize for hole in one contest • Additional prizes on all other par 3’s About Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce The Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce is a trusted business organization working for the development and voice of business success in Mission. The chamber provides opportunities for all businesses and individuals who invest in the Mission community. The Greater

The gates open at 1 p.m. and there is food and beverage, music and entertainment until the bullfight starts at 4 p.m. Tickets are still just $30 sunny side, $35 shady side, and $40 for the ringside covered seats. All tickets are by reservation or walk up. Call 956-481-3300 to make a reservation and then pay on arrival via checks or cash.

Eric Ledesma, a student at La Joya’s Juarez-Lincoln HS, was named the winner of the Congressional App Challenge 2017 under District 15 and Congressman Vicente Gonzalez. Eric developed a financial calculator app that counts money. Ledesma will showcase the app in Washington, D.C., in April and will attend a reception on Capitol Hill. His work will be displayed for one year at the U.S. Capitol Building and on the House. gov website.

Jose Cruz, a junior, La Joya’s Juarez-Lincoln High School has been accepted into the summer Harvard University Secondary School Program through the Texas Graduate Center (TGC) in Mercedes. The program is a test-drive of college and allows high school students to fully immerse themselves in the college experience while receiving college credit that will transfer to the college of the student’s choice in the future. Students in the program can choose from over 200 college courses.

Income Tax Masters, LLC

www.ptrgv.com

1217 N. Conway • Mission, TX (956) 585-4893 MEMBER 2018

TEXAS PRESS ASSOCIATION

The Progress Times (USPS 971-420; ISSN 0890-2666) is published each Friday by Savy Publishing, LLC, 1217 N. Conway, Mission, Texas 78572, (956) 585-4893. Subscriptions $20 annual in Hidalgo County; $30 outside of Hidalgo County. Second class postage paid in Mission, Texas 78572. ©2018 Savy Publishing, LLC. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the PROGRESS TIMES, P.O. Box 399, Mission Texas 78573.

LETTER GUIDELINES

Letters to the Editor are welcome but must conform to certain guidelines. All letters must be original, dated, signed and bear the complete name, address and phone number of the writer/signer. No photo copied letters will be printed. No letters addressed to others will be printed. Letter content must be relevant to concerns and interests of Mission and the surrounding area. Relevance is determined by the editor. Anonymous cards or letters are neither read nor printed. Letters may be submitted by e-mail to letters@progresstimes.net, but must include the author’s name and daytime phone number.

March 9, 2018

page 5

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

VMHS student film project finishes in top three in state competition Special for the Progress Times On Feb. 28, the Veterans Memorial High School Harlequin Film Team traveled to Austin, Texas for the UIL State Young Filmmakers Contest. It marked the first time a student film project advanced to the state-level competition from VMHS and the Mission Consolidated Independent School District.

The film team animation, “Francis,” earned third place at the state competition. It was one of six advancing in Division 2 in the digital animation category. The powerful story has also garnered the project a nomination for the Nobelity Social Impact Award, for which it was also a finalist. The film was written and animated by Fabian Gutierrez. Original music produced for the film was created by

Samuel Gonzalez and Fabian Gutierrez. The short film can be seen online at https://youtu. be/8wqcDyRAKck. Fabian Gutierrez, Samuel Gonzalez and VMHS Theater Director, James A. Hodgson; went to the historic Paramount Theater, where the student film projects were screened as a part of the competition and film festival.

Fabian Gutierrez (Left) and Samuel Gonzalez (Right) with James A. Hodgson outside the historic Paramount Theater in Austin.

Julian J. Gonzalez for Mission City Council Place 4

Elected to the Mission City Council in 1997, Julian has demonstrated leadership and commitment to the City of Mission. He was involved in the creation and

building of a new and better infrastructure, better streets, safe neighborhoods and new business developments. Julian demonstrated his commitment to the City and

Julian J. Gonzalez

the business community while serving on the Mission Economic Development Corporation Board. Through the MEDC, the City has helped fund numerous projects by investing millions of dollars in utilities and leveraging millions more in business and industrial growth. As a charter member of the Mission Economic Development Corporation, Julian was involved in the creation of the Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone “TIRZ”, which has and continues to fund millions of dollars in business and neighborhood development. Julian currently serves on the TIRZ board. Julian worked in state government for over 18 years. He understands how local government operates and functions, and he is experienced in how state and federal agencies work. Julian worked in the expansion of the Bryan and Shary Road projects, the results of the efforts are quite clear, he said. “I will continue to work for sensible and planned Economic Development, including the expansion of the

Sullivan City police arrest well-known smuggler By Dave Hendricks

al prior arrests. Officers detained Ortiz in November and handed her over to Border Patrol, according to the criminal com-

formation on administrative actions,” according to a statement released by Border Officers arrested a wellPatrol. known smuggler last month Agents arrested Ortiz after she abandoned four again on Dec. 3. After migrants at the Stripes she pleaded guilty to convenience store in unlawfully crossing the Sullivan City. border, U.S. Magistrate At 5:46 a.m. on Feb. Judge Dorina Ramos 23, a policeman stopped sentenced Ortiz to time a white Ford Fusion served. near the intersection She quickly returned of U.S. 83 and El Faro to Sullivan City. Road, according to SulRoughly a month livan City Municipal ago, police Chief RichCourt records. ard Ozuna warned her When the driver against loitering at parked at the nearby Stripes. Stripes, the policeman Ortiz said she was recognized her as Glowaiting for a friend, but ria Ortiz Albarran, 36, refused to identify the a Mexican citizen who mystery friend or prolived in McAllen. vide any details about “Mrs. Ortiz was also their plans, Ozuna said, recognized from preadding that he asked her vious incidents to be to leave the area. working in the human “They wait for the smuggling rings around phone call,” Ozuna said. Sullivan City,” accord“And then they go pick ing to the criminal comGloria Ortiz Booking photo up.” plaint against her. (Courtesy image from Hidalgo Ortiz is charged with After she stopped the County Sheriff’s Office) smuggling of persons, Ford Fusion, though, a third-degree felony. Ortiz walked away — Municipal Judge Alex leaving behind her four passengers. Border Patrol ar- plaint. Border Patrol appar- Cantu set bond at $20,000. ently released Ortiz. rived moments later. Court records don’t list an Court records don’t show Agents detained the pasattorney for Ortiz, who resengers, who weren’t legally any immigration or smug- mains at the Hidalgo County gling charges from the Nopresent in the United States, jail and couldn’t be reached according to the criminal vember incident. When for comment. asked what happened, the complaint. Sullivan City police arrested Ortiz, a well- agency declined to comment. “We do not provide inknown smuggler with severConway projects,” he said. “I am a representative on the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) and familiar with the Regional Mobility Authority (RMA). I bring this experience to get every possible dollar for our area and will work to make sure that all city employees are represented well and compensated fairly for their work and dedication.” Fro Julian, Protection, Prevention and Enforcement is part of his agenda and he will continue to support the Police and Fire Department by providing the needed resources for their work and for their safety to ensure criminals are removed from the Julian will continue to work for our neighborhoods, as he believes every neighborhood deserves good services. Julian will also work with other community leaders to ensure local priorities

are met and improve services where needed such as in improving and maintaining local parks with proper lighting. “We need to continue to beautify Mission, keep our neighborhoods clean and have public health awareness, he said. “I will continue to support and promote youth programs. As a past board member of the Mission Boys and Girls Club, I understand the importance of youth development programs. I also worked in bringing programs for our seniors and I will continue to support more senior citizen activities.” For Julian, the history of the city is important as he worked in getting the World Birding Center in Mission and was on the restoration committee for the iconic La Lomita Chapel located near the banks of the Rio Grande. Julian is married to Selma

Gonzalez and has 3 daughters, Crystal Avila (J.C.), Arianna Gonzalez and Giselle Gonzalez and 2 grandchildren Josiah and Presley Ann Avila. Julian is currently employed as City Manager at the City of Hidalgo. He says his experience in local and state government will help him represent the city of Mission. “My vision is very clear, I want Mission residents and businesses to have the very best in city services at the best and most efficient cost,” he said. “Working together we can accomplish and provide the necessary services and projects needed for our community. We must accomplish them with efficiency and they must be cost effective. I am committed to making sure that every tax dollar is invested wisely.”

The Marketplace Business and services Directory

ONE COMPANY. ONE AGENT. MANY WAYS TO SAVE.

Let me help you save time and money.

Protecting more of your world with Allstate makes your life easier. And it can put more money in your pocket. Bundle your policies and you can save een more. Why wait? Call me today.

Ana Alvarado 2000 E. Business 83 Ste. G • Mission, TX

956.205.2850 email: anaalvardo@allstate.com

Auto Home Life Retirement

Insurance and coverage subject to terms, qualifications and availability. Allstate Vehicle Property Insurance Co., Allstate Fire and Casualty Insurance Co. Northbrook, Illinions © 2018 Allstate Insurance Co.

TO ADVERTISE IN THE MARKETPLACE BUSINESS AND SERVICES DIRECTORY CALL 956-585-4893 FOR MORE INFORMATION

Top Soil, Caliche, Sand, Mulch, Gravel River Rocks & Boulders, We Deliver www.riotechyard.com Utility, Enclosed, Tow Dollies & Hot Shot Trailers 16ft Angel Top – (2) 3500lbs Axles - $1,39900 Plus Tax and Registration www.riotechtrailers.com Mini Roll-Off Containers Delivery & Pickup to local landfill $29900 / 7 day rental www.rgvminirolloff.com

956-287-0800 2113 West State Hwy. 107 McAllen, TX 78504

Hours: Mon-Fri:8am - 5:30pm • Saturday: 9am - 3pm Sunday: Closed

THE

March 9, 2018

Sports week

BIG7 SCHOOLS

page 6

www.ptrgv.com/sports

Covering Mission, Veterans Memorial, Sharyland, Pioneer, La Joya, Palmview & Juarez-Lincoln Sports

Palmview Lady Lobos Powerlifting State Qualifiers

Pioneer’s Karla Lopez and Christina Ybarra

Palmview’s Laisha Lopez

Big 7 powerlifting sending 17 to state By Bryan Ramos After a solid performance at regionals last weekend, the Big 7 ladies’ powerlifting programs are sending 17 athletes to compete at the Texas High School Women’s Powerlifting Association 2018 State Championships March 16 and 17 in Waco. The THSWPA Region 5 Division 1 Championships were held March 3 at PSJA Southwest Early College High School, where the Big 7 had a strong showing. The list of state qualifiers includes six Sharyland Lady Rattlers and five Palmview Lady Lobos. After all the workouts, countless repetitions and hours spent in the gym, these 17 athletes are ready to compete against the best the state

of Texas has to offer. Palmview powerlifter Laisha Lopez is returning to state in her senior year after finishing fourth at state in the 105-pound weight class as a junior. The former cheerleader turned powerlifter will be competing in the 97-pound weight class after qualifying first in the division by lifting a total of 735 pounds (305 Squat, 175 Bench, 255 Dead Lift). At state last year, Lopez set a personal bench press record of 150 pounds. Lopez shattered that record over the last year and put up 175 pounds on bench press at regionals, 25 pounds higher than second place. Lopez will be looking to close out her high school career by bringing home another medal at state. Joining her to compete at

state is Priscilla Hernandez, 4th place in the 114-pound weight class by lifting a total of 630 pounds (Squat 250, Bench 130, Dead Lift 250); Donna Mondragon, 9th place in the 123-pound weight class lifted 795 pounds (340 Squat, 145 Bench, 310 Dead Lift); Natalie Villalon, 11th place in the 123-pound weight class put up 780 pounds (315 Squat, 145 Bench, 320 Dead Lift); and Michelle Rodriguez, 16th place in the 105-pound weight class with 630 pounds (Squat 250, Bench 130, Dead Lift 250). The six Sharyland Lady Rattlers who qualified for state are Brianna Resendez, 4th place in the 132-pound weight class lifted 870 pounds (355 Squat, 185 Bench, 335 Dead Lift);

Amanda Rodriguez, 7th place in the 114-pound weight class by lifting a total of 760 pounds (Squat 290, Bench 140, Dead Lift 330); Carolina Constantino, 10th place in the 165-pound weight class lifted 880 pounds (415 Squat, 170 Bench, 295 Dead Lift); Ashley Tejenia, 11th place in the 114-pound weight class lifted 740 pounds (315 Squat, 130 Bench, 295 Dead Lift); Katrina Mendez, 13th place in the 181-pound weight class lifted 870 pounds (350 Squat, 190 Bench, 330 Dead Lift); and Camila Velez, 15th place in the 114-pound weight class put up 715 pounds (290 Squat, 140 Bench, 285 Dead Lift). Sharyland Pioneer and La Joya are each sending two powerlifters apiece.

The two Lady Diamondbacks that qualified for state are Christina Ybarra, who finished 7th in the 132-pound weight class by putting up 820 pounds (345 Squat, 155 Bench, 320 Dead Lift), and Karla Lopez, 9th place in the 97-pound weight class with 585 pounds (230 squat, 105 Bench, 250 Dead Lift). The two Lady Coyotes making the trip to state are Nehemiah Coronado who took home 5th place in the 165-pound weight class by lifting 925 pounds (405 Squat, 180 Bench, 340 Dead Lift); and Keyla Puente, 8th place in the 181-pound weight class lifted 915 total pounds (410 Squat, 175 Bench, 330 Dead Lift). Mission Veterans Memorial’s Brianna Flores qualified for state by finishing

9th in the 148-pound weight class and lifting 865 pounds (320 Squat, 180 Bench, 365 Dead Lift); and Juarez-Lincoln’s Yanitza Vasquez finished 10th in the 105-pound weight class, lifting 665 pounds (270 Squat, 110 Bench, 285 Dead Lift). The Texas High School Women’s Powerlifting Association 2018 State Championships begin Friday, March 16 at 8 a.m. at the Extraco Events Center located at 4601 Bosque Blvd. in Waco, Texas 76710. The competition will resume Saturday, March 17th at 8 a.m. for the final day of the 2018 State Championships.

Sharyland holds on to 31-5A lead after dramatic win over Pioneer

Lady Rattlers in position to claim another district title By Bryan Ramos Anytime the top two teams in District 31-5A step onto the soccer field, there’s sure to be fireworks. The Sharyland Lady Rattlers have long been a powerhouse on the pitch in the RGV, while the Pioneer Lady Diamondbacks have quickly turned into a serious contender since the start of the program just four years ago. The crosstown rivals clashed in a rematch Tuesday night with the top spot in District 31-5A up for grabs and Sharyland (12-1, 36 points) put a stranglehold on its district lead, emerging

victorious 2-1 on penalty kicks over Pioneer (11-2, 33 points). For the second time this season, the closely matched teams required a penalty kick shootout to decide a winner.

This time around, it was the Lady Rattlers who delivered to even the season series at one win apiece. The shootout wouldn’t have been possible if it wasn’t for the late-game heroics of Sharyland senior

forward Kaitie Watson. “It was really emotional because we knew what we had to do,” Watson said. “We had to come out with the win to be district champions,

See LADY RATTLERS Pg. 7

Shary Municipal GOLF COURSE

The Valley’s Friendliest Public Golf Course

Sharyland’s Aneli Pena and Pioneer’s Andrea Reyes battle for control of the ball during the first half of the Lady Rattlers’ 2-1 (PKs) win over the Lady Diamondbacks Tuesday evening. Progress Times photo by Luciano Guerra

Medicaid • Medicare • Workman’s Comp • Chips • Private Insurance

Winter Specials

18 Hole Green Fee & 1/2 Carts: $25 - After 1:00 p.m. 9 Hole Green Fee & 1/2 Cart: $15 - After 2:00 p.m. Special is good thru March 2018

We’re On getting b ly ett er!

• 27 Exciting Golf Holes • 19th Hole Snack Bar • Full Stocked Pro Shop • Annual Green Fee: $900 • 3 Months Membership: $500 • 18 Hole: $22 • 18 Hole $24 per cart • Senior 60+ $800 • Daily Green Fee: 9 Hole: $16 • Rental Carts: 9 Hole $14

60 New Golf Carts

2201 Mayberry Rd. • Mission, Texas Tee Time Reservations: (956) 580-8770

The Only Pharmacy You Need Fast Prescriptions

in 10 minutes or less, with refill service by phone or online Specialty Compounding Available

Friendly Service

from an experienced and caring team of pharmacists and technicians

Free Delivery Valley Wide Store Hours:

Flu, Pneumonia & Shingles Vaccines

Monday-Friday

Medical Equipment

Saturday

Alberto Vela, R.Ph.

583-2700 1242 E. Bus. 83, #7 - Mission

Fred Morón, R.Ph.

581-5499 2120 E. Griffin Pkwy. - Mission

9 a.m. - 7 p.m. 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

March 9, 2018

LADY RATTLERS

so we came with the right mindset and we were really excited after losing last time. It was real emotional for us since it’s a big rivalry.” After a scoreless first half largely dominated by Pioneer’s ability to keep possession, the Lady Diamondbacks got on the board just 29 seconds into the second half when senior Andrea Reyes connected with a perfectly positioned Lauren Guerra, who sent the ball into the Sharyland goal. Watson was marked heavily by Pioneer defenders from start to finish, but her best chance came down 1-0 with just over four minutes left on the clock. A handball set up a Sharyland free kick 29 yards out from the goal. That’s when Watson stepped

GAMBLING RAID

“It’s a subtlety that not many in the law enforcement community pay attention to,” Baggish said. Legitimate sweepstakes don’t break Texas gambling laws, Baggish said. However, the company acknowledges sweepstakes machines may prompt questions from law enforcement. “There is also the risk of local law enforcement confusing sweepstakes machines as gambling devices and acting too hastily,” according to the Tejas Vending website. Sweepstakes are legal, but they can’t pay cash prizes, said Lt. Mario Villarreal of the Alcoholic Beverage Commission. “If somebody’s being paid cash upfront for their winnings, it’s automatically not sweepstakes,” Villarreal said. In the Voodoo Lounge case, investigators accuse Palacios of paying cash priz-

AGUA SUD

preventing the project from moving forward, the lawsuit states. “In January 2018, Agua SUD indicated that it did not need the project since its $42.2 million project financed in part by the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) would provide the service by the spring of 2019,” the lawsuit stated. “Agua SUD indicated that a smaller lift station would be acceptable...it requested that the City go through the application process. Then in February, Agua indicated that it did not need the project at all, and that the city should not file an application. La Joya then, and Agua now, have failed to provide public services as contemplated, failed in their duty, and betrayed the public trust. No mention of the lawsuit was made during open session. The second agreement

up to the ball, cool, calm and collected, and delivered a free kick that sailed over the Pioneer wall and past the outstretched arms of goalkeeper Yulissa Ocuna to tie the game at 1-1 with minutes left in regulation. “I knew it was probably going to be the last solid chance we had of the game and I felt pretty confident because we had just practiced that free kick at practice and I was hitting them on point,” said Watson. “I went over there confident and watching it actually go into the back of the net, I can’t even describe it, it was just an amazing feeling to know that I could do that for my team.” Sharyland Head Coach Mario Ribera said he couldn’t sleep the night be-

from pg. 6 fore the rematch with Pioneer due to excitement, but was happy his team was able to come from behind to secure the win and take a four point lead in the district race. “I have to give credit to Coach Lopez,” Ribera said. “The first half they dominated, we didn’t have opportunities the first half. Kaitie was well-marked, they marked her all over the field with one or two players. I feel the second half, we had a little bit more of an opportunity, but they still controlled most of the game. Very fortunate for us that we had the free kick, and having Kaitie on our team is something special because she makes things happen.” The first nine kicks of the shootout were successful, but

after Sharyland goalkeeper Ana De La Torre was guessing right, getting her hands on shots and nearly blocking them, Pioneer’s final penalty kick sailed well over the goal, allowing the Lady Rattlers to win the shootout 5-4. De La Torre, a junior in her first year on varsity, played big all game long for Sharyland, denying Pioneer with diving stops in goal. “When I make those saves it’s pure adrenaline, just gut instincts,” she said. “It’s amazing, I feel like all my hard work has paid off and I just proved myself right now with this game.” Pioneer’s defense was on point much of the game as it was in their first meeting with Sharyland. Defenders Olivia Vasquez and Jocelyn Boyle played key roles in

es on three separate occasions. The Raid Investigators with the San Juan Police Department, the Pharr Police Department and the Alcoholic Beverage Commission raided the Voodoo Lounge at 5 p.m. on Nov. 11. They confiscated more than $12,000 from cash registers, the ATM and a small safe, according to the affidavit. Investigators also seized dozens of computers and four flat-screen TVs. Palacios said he thought the slot-machine style devices were legal. “He said that Arnold had lied to him because he was told that as long as they were giving away donations it made it legit to have an eight-liner business,” according to the affidavit. Palacios claimed the Voodoo Lounge donated money to the American Legion in

from pg. 1 Pharr. The Voodoo Lounge donated $200 to American Legion Post 101 in Pharr, according to a spokesman for the organization. Concerns about the propriety of the arrangement prompted the American Legion to stop accepting money after the first payment. What happened to the vast majority of the money remains a subject of contention. Palacios said Arnold Ochoa sent people to collect money from the machines, according to the affidavit. Arnold Ochoa denied sending anyone to collect money. “Anybody can mention anybody to the cops,” Arnold Ochoa said, adding that he didn’t do anything illegal. The Aftermath Neither Arnold Ochoa nor Claudia Ochoa was charged with any crime. Court records don’t reveal whether

or not investigators took the allegations about Arnold Ochoa seriously. San Juan police Chief Juan Gonzalez declined to comment on the Voodoo Lounge investigation. “It is still an ongoing criminal case,” Gonzalez said. “Can’t discuss details.” Neither Palacios nor his attorney responded to requests for comment. “To the media ... sorry but we will not be doing any interviews for anyone,” the Voodoo Lounge wrote on Facebook in November. The Voodoo Lounge page later disappeared from Facebook altogether. Palacios is charged with gambling promotion, a Class A misdemeanor; possession of gambling equipment, a Class A misdemeanor; and keeping a gambling place, a Class A misdemeanor. He’s scheduled for arraignment on April 11.

Agua approved concerned the street paving projects, an agreement both entities-along with the county-have been working together to fix. For the last several months, several streets in Palmview that have been dug up as a result of the wastewater project, leaving them damaged. However, contractors are only getting paid to replace the part of the road that is dug up and the TWDB won’t pay for the re-paving of the entire roadway, Saenz said. “We’re not in the street business, we’re in the utility business,” Saenz said. Because of this, the city is working with the county to completely repave the roads, absolving Agua of any responsibility for the street paving, Olivares said. “So once you approve the interlocal, then the city will put in the $1.6 million need-

from pg. 1 ed for it and as far as you’re concerned, you’re done.” Olivares said. “Then it’s up to the city and county to make sure the streets are paved.” Victor Gallardo, a representative from Hidalgo County Precinct 3, informed the board the county wouldn’t be up for discussion on the agreement between the county and Palmview until the next county commissioners meeting in two weeks. Saenz reminded Olivares that even though Agua will assist the city and county in coordinating the repaving of the street, there will be timing issues once the Agua contractor is done with the streets and turns it over to Agua for repaving, the city and county will only have two weeks to get those streets paved. “We’ll have our crews out there to make sure all issues are addressed and coordinate

with you,” Olivares told the directors. “These are good projects for everyone, we’re committed to expedite it and help you in any way we can.”

DOG PARK vision of an adoption center and then it sort of evolved a little bit into a rescue transport system. Before, we were putting down a hundred, up to 120 dogs per month, and now it’ll be four or five, and that’s just because of their health condition. Right now the number of lives we have saved in November and December in the few months, has been 428 dogs.” Mission Pawsible is transporting dogs found up north to states like Arizona, Colorado, and New York through a network of rescuers. Brad Bentson, the Parks and Recreation director for Mission, thanked everyone for attending the event and promoting new developments in the city. “It takes vision and support, and a little bit of pushing,” Bentsen said. “None of this would be happening without the support of the community, our elected officials, and our Parks board.” Bensten brought up some facts about dogs in the country, and how dog parks help dog owners. “Over one-third of our nation’s population has not one dog, but probably two dogs in their households,” Bentsen said. “One of the things we can expect from the dog park here is healthier dogs, we can have healthier pet owners, and we can also have an improved quality of life in our towns and neighborhoods. Parks are a way for pets to frolic and socialize.” He said that parks allow for pet owners to have a place to take their dogs and

page7

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com shutting down the scoring threat of the Lady Rattlers, holding Sharyland scoreless in regulation for nearly 156 minutes of regulation play in both games. “This is probably the third or fourth game that we’ve been down and we’ve come back,” Ribero said. “It’s something I have to give credit to these girls, they never give up. We knew something was going to happen. We prepare for these types of games and I think we’re ready for the playoffs.” The win gives the Lady Rattlers a three-point lead over the Lady Diamondbacks in the race for a district championship with just three games remaining in the season. Left on the slate for Sharyland is Laredo Nixon,

Mission Veterans Memorial and Rio Grande City, who are all but eliminated from playoff contention. Pioneer closes the regular season with matchups against Laredo Martin and Roma. The Sharyland boys’ soccer team also brought home a win Tuesday night in a 1-0 win over Pioneer at Richard Thompson Stadium. The win is Sharyland’s second over Pioneer this season as the Rattlers are firmly in second place (10-3, 31 points) behind district leader Valley View. The loss doesn’t affect Pioneer in the standings as the Diamondbacks remain third in 31-5A (8-6, 26 points).

from pg. 1 meet other experienced pet owners, and they are for the benefit of beloved pets. The dog park became a project when Martin Garza, Jr., Bentson, and Garcia went to visit the dog park in McAllen and noticed that the people there were from all over the Rio Grande Valley. The park was one of the top ten amenities the public in Mission was requesting from the city. Mayor Norberto Salinas also spoke and said that this was necessary for the area, and is glad that they are expanding. He was very excited about the future dog parks in Mission. “We have room for anything that we can have in Mission,” Salinas said. “People really wanted this park. I’m glad that we can be part of a city that provides this dog park for people. I hope we can open the other park soon.” The dog park at Bannworth Park will be approximately two acres separated into five sections: a small dog area for furry friends that weigh less than 20 pounds, a large dog area for dogs that weigh more than 20 pounds, a central shaded area for leashed dogs, and two smaller areas within the small dog and large dog locations composed of decomposed granite to be used for training. This park will include a variety of “dog amenities” to help train dogs constructed by the Parks “Strike Team,” as well as watering stations for dogs and dog-owners. It will be surrounded by butterfly gardens on all four sides.

The gardens will be funded by a Monarch Butterfly Grant provided by the North American Butterfly Association. The Public Works department will be adding two parking lots with 72 spaces in order to accommodate people who want to go to the dog park, as well as the needs of people using the natatorium, for instance, during swim meets. The dog park to be located at Bentsen Palm Community Park will also be two acres, with small and large dog areas, training areas, and hopefully butterfly gardens as well.

Thank you for giving us the opportunity to serve you.

Move in Special! No Deposit Required!

Convenient Access

Low Monthly Rates Fully Fenced, Key Entry Gates Open 7 Day a Week Boat & Trailer Storage Available

ARK STORAGE 1210 U.S. 83 Business, Palmview, TX (956) 584-5788

www.arkstorage.net

page 8

March 9, 2018

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

Pioneer FFA members Back row, left–right: Calista Long, Samuel Eddy, Lauren Brechler, Oleana Buentello, Frank Eddy, Jaime Salinas Front row, left-right: Daniella Garcia, Diana Garcia, Bella Alaniz, Thalia Ochoa, Aliyah Silva, Haley Cottrell, Johnny Howell, Cesar Ramirez

Bella Alaniz, Grand Champion Market Hog Pioneer FFA

Mission Veterans FFA members Jake Ruiz – Reserve Breed Champion Dark Cross Market Hog, Michael Sanchez – Reserve Grand Champion Market Lamb

Miguel Angel Gonzalez, Supreme Champion Breeding Gilt Palmview FFA

Diana Garcia, Supreme Champion Heifer – Pioneer FFA

Pioneer FFA members shine at STAR Show Aliyah Silva, Reserve Grand Champion Market Hog – Pioneer FFA

By Luciano Guerra It is livestock show season once again here in the Rio Grande Valley and the 15th Annual South Texas Agricultural Roundup, more commonly known as the STAR Livestock Show, is now in the books. With hundreds of Hidalgo County youth having spent months, or even years, preparing their market steers, hogs, goats, lambs, rabbits, chickens and/or their breeding animals for this show, there were no losers among the exhibitors. While it is true that some exhibitors’ animals were awarded ribbons and banners while others weren’t, participation in livestock shows such as this provides each and every young person involved a positive learning experience that builds character, leadership and life skills that will serve them well for many years to come. So while we will focus here on a few of the exhibitors whose entries were determined to be worthy of championships by the judges, congratulations go out to all the participants, their parents and their Ag teachers and/ or 4-H sponsors for jobs well

done. With one grand champion, two supreme champions, two reserve grand champions and 11 breed champions, Sharyland Pioneer FFA members had more than their share of top winners. Two of those were junior Bella Alaniz with her grand champion market hog and sophomore Diana Garcia with her supreme champion ABC heifer and her reserve grand champion AOB market steer. Prior to going through the STAR Premium Auction Saturday, Alaniz took a few minutes to talk about her light cross market hog that earned her the first grand championship of her eight year showing career. Including how she got her rather unusual name. “My pig has a funny name,” Alaniz said. “She’s all blue with white hairs so she has a different look to her, so my Dad named her P.U. But not as in the stink but as in Pretty Ugly, so that is her name.” Weighing in at 292 lbs., P.U. competed as a heavyweight. Before she could earn the right to compete in the grand champion drive howev-

er, P.U. had to win her breed championship. “The breed championship drive was tough but the grand championship drive was even tougher,” Alaniz said. “That’s because it included all the breed champion pigs. So I was just trying to show her the best by giving the judge every single view and show her off the best I could. So that’s what I did.” Alaniz, whose father, Ruben Alaniz, is an Ag teacher at Veterans Memorial High School, sold P.U. at the premium auction for $5,200. Having one champion entry in a show as competitive as the STAR Show is hard enough, but for one exhibitor to have a supreme champion heifer and a reserve grand champion steer in the same show is almost unheard of. That however is what Pioneer FFA’s Diana Garcia had. The fact that Garcia had just shown her heifer at the San Antonio Livestock Show, where she did extremely well, gave her a pretty good idea of how good of a heifer she has. “I showed her at San Antonio at the Simmental/Simbrah Super Bowl and I got reserve

champion with her,” Garcia said. “I was really excited that day. My parents, my brothers and I have been working really hard with her. It was really good because it proved that hard work pays off.” In only her second year of showing livestock, competing in the supreme drive was an experience Garcia will never forget. “I’ve been working really hard for it so when it came to setting her up and presenting her to make her look her best, I got a little nervous,” Garcia said. “But when I won it felt amazing. At first I felt relief because I was really nervous, but then I felt like, “Yes, I finally got this!” As for her steer, it won the reserve grand championship despite coming in second in its class. That meant that the steer her steer came in second to, had to go on to win the breed championship and grand championship for her steer to even have a chance of competing for and then winning the reserve breed championship and the reserve grand championship. “It doesn’t usually happen,” Garcia said. “That’s

Apple Pharmacy #1 2501 N 23rd St B, McAllen 956-627-6652

Apple Pharmacy #2 810 E Veterans Dr. Palmview 956-352-6485

Apple Pharmacy #3

RioScript Pharmacy 2308 Expressway 83, Penitas • 956-271-1064

(formerly Paloma’s Pharmacy)

909 Buss. Park Dr, Mission 956-424-6268

Mon.-Fri. 8am-8pm • Sat. 9am-1pm

clean. You have to make sure she’s not dirty. And you have to do a good job of showing your pig to the judge.” Other top winners from Pioneer FFA included Thalia Ochoa, supreme champion percentage breeding goat, Aliyah Silva, reserve grand champion market hog, Haley Cottrell, breed champion Simbrah market steer, Johnny Howell, breed champion Duroc market hog, Delilah Falcon, breed champion Hampshire market hog, Dustin Bazan, breed champion Commercial ABC heifer, and Marexy Guerra, breed champion OPB breeding gilt. Palmview FFA’s Miguel Angel Gonzalez and Karina Saenz, had the supreme champion breeding gilt and the reserve grand champion market goat respectively, while Veterans Memorial FFA’s Michael Sanchez had the reserve grand champion market lamb, and Sharyland FFA’s Edwardo Lopez and Corynna Murillo, had the breed champion Yorkshire market hog and the reserve champion Hampshire breeding gilt respectively.

Fiesta Lube Express

Rio Script Pharmacy

what my Dad kept telling me, “I’ve gone to so many shows and I’ve never seen that happen.” Garcia’s heifer received a $6,200 premium and her steer sold for $5.000 at the STAR Premium Auction Saturday. Unlike Garcia who did not start showing livestock until she was in high school, a lot of exhibitors begin showing at a much younger age. This is the case with nine-year-old Veterans Memorial FFA member Jake Ruiz, whose dark cross market hog won reserve breed champion at the STAR Show. Ruiz, a student at Midkiff Elementary School in Mission, took a few minutes after his 250 lb. medium weight hog went through the auction Saturday to talk about her. “Her name is Firecracker because she always gets angry,” Ruiz said. “She won first place in her class and the reserve breed championship. It felt really good when she won.” Ruiz, who won a reserve grand champion showmanship buckle as well, went on to explain what it takes to be a good showman when he said, “Your pig has to be really

Full Service Oil Change

5 QTS. OIL • REPLACE OIL FILTER • CHECK FLUIDS CHECK TIRE PRESSURE • VACCUM • TRANSMISSION FLUID

585-0115 1418 E. Bus. 83 Mission, TX

(Between Bryan Rd. & Stewart Rd.)

3599 $10 OFF $5 OFF

Oil Change with FREE 15 point Inspection

Expires: Mar. 31, 2018

A/C or Brake Service

Expires: Mar. 31, 2018

any service with your TLC Pharmacy bottle Expires: Mar. 31, 2018

March 9, 2018

obituaries

Benigno Cerda Jr. LA JOYA – Benigno Cerda Jr., 81, passed away on Thursday, March 1, 2018, at Mission Regional Medical Center. Mr. Cerda was born in Mission on March 13, 1936, to Benigno Sr. and Rebecca Cerda. He was a third generation farmer and rancher for Cerda Farms Inc. Survivors include his wife, Maria Minerva Cerda; children, Javier Cerda, Sylvia Oxford, Veronica Reyes, Willie Cerda, Juan Cerda, Reynaldo Cerda, Maria Brashear, Nellie Betancourt, Rebecca LeBlanc, Ricardo Cerda, Michael Cerda, Jose Cerda and David Cerda; siblings, Francisco Cerda, Raquel Garcia and Lucia Longoria; and 33 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Jesus Cerda; and siblings, Esperanza Pena, Josefina Rivera and Juaquin Cerda. A funeral mass was held on March 5 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Peñitas. Burial followed at Valley Memorial Gardens in McAllen. Serving as pallbearers were David Cerda, Richard Flores, Randy Cerda, Kenny Cerda, Ethan Cerda, Dylan Cerda, Kevin Brashear Jr. and John Wayne Cerda. Oscar Garza Sr. MISSION – Oscar Omar Garza Sr., 62, passed away on Thursday, March 1, 2018, in Mission. Mr. Garza graduated from Sharyland High School with

page 9

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

the Class of 1974. Survivors include his wife of 41 years, Alicia V. Garza of Mission; children, Michelle Garza of Mission and Oscar Garza Jr. of San Antonio; mother, Ester Garza; siblings, Olivero Garza III of San Antonio, Jaime Garza of Edinburg, Norma Vela of Mission and Thelma Garcia of Palmhurst; and five grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his father, Olivero A. Garza Jr. A funeral mass was held on March 5 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Mission. Rev. Roy Snipes officiated. Burial followed at Valley Memorial Gardens Cemetery in McAllen. Serving as pallbearers were Jaime Garza, Julio Garcia, Tony Rodriguez, Jose Villanueva, Pablo Villescas, Gene Villanueva, Eli Villanueva, Michael Rodriguez, Margarito Salazar and Roberto Olvera. Honorary pallbearers were Christopher Lopez, Andrew Lopez and Nathan Garza.

Notices Chris Barron SULLIVAN CITY – Infant Chris Anthony Barron passed away on Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2018, at Mission Regional Medical Center. Christina Garza MISSION – Christina Ramirez Garza , 53, passed away on Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2018, at the Methodist Hospital in San Antonio.

Antioco Gonzalez MISSION – Antioco Acuña Gonzalez, 84, passed away on Monday, March 5, 2018, at home in Mission. Arnulfo Gonzalez Sr. MISSION – Arnulfo Gonzalez Sr., 69, passed away on Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2018, at Pax Villa Hospice & Palliative Care in McAllen. Jose Garza MISSION – Jose Guadalupe Garza, 48, passed away on Monday, Feb. 26, 2018, at Cuero Regional Hospital in Cuero. Sergio Gonzalez MISSION – Sergio Pablo Gonzalez, 30, passed away on Monday, March 5, 2018, at his home in Mission Maria Hernandez ALTON – Maria de la Luz (Palacios) Hernandez, 67, passed away on Thursday, Feb. 26, 2018, at Mission Regional Medical Center. Jorge Lemus ALTON – Jorge Lemus, 59, passed away on Friday, March 2, 2018, at Briarcliff Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in McAllen. Joey Lozano III MISSION – Joey Lozano III, 26, passed away on Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2018, at his residence in Mission. Raquel Reyna MISSION – Raquel (Longoria) Reyna, 98, passed away on Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2018, at San Juan Nursing Home. Maria Rodriguez MISSION – Maria Del Carmen (Rangel) Rodriguez, 66, passed away on Friday, March 2, 2018, at Rio Grande Regional Hospital. Sandra Sanchez MISSION – Sandra Sanchez, 46, passed away on Thursday, March 1, 2018, at Mission Regional Medical Center.

ProgressTimes

Like Us on Facebook scan this code with your smartphone

VMHS DECA students state bound

The Veterans Memorial High School (VMHS) DECA Chapter is sending 25 students to state competition at the Texas DECA Career Development Conference this spring. The students recently competed at District 1 Career Development Conference. The students advancing include Javia Cerda, Yesenia Espinoza, Victoria Bonilla, Arnaldo Cadena, Jarec Lopez, Rojelio Cardenas, Rey Maldonado, Ivan Pena, Jaqueline Martinez, Selee Mercado, Abigail Amaya, Christa Cavazos, Maria Diaz, Klarissa Farias, Karyna Lozano, Christopher Bravo, Maia Mendoza, Alyssa Ramirez, Miguel Ayala, Alejandro Martinez, Arath Rivas, Alek Garza, Andres Lopez, Andrea Flores and Deyla Rodriguez. Students serving as District 1 officers this next school year are Javia Cerda and Dayla Rodriguez. Pictured are VMHS DECA members receiving recognitions during a recent meeting of the Mission C.I.S.D. Board of Trustees.

DPS offers Spring Break safety tips AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is urging Texans to keep safety a top priority as they prepare for this year’s Spring Break. To be mindful that increased traffic often accompanies Spring Break, the department is urging drivers to obey all traffic laws and use extra caution when driving during the next few weeks. Additionally, DPS troopers and local law enforcement in the coastal areas of Texas will be enhancing enforcement efforts during Spring Break, watching for speeders, drunk drivers and seat-belt violators. DPS offers the following tips for safe travel during the Spring Break holiday: • Do not drink and drive. Make alternate travel plans if you are consuming alcohol. • Slow down – especially in bad weather, construction

ChurCh DireCtory BREAD OF LIFE CHURCH 2820 N. Conway Ave. • 581-1411 CHURCH OF THE GOOD SHEPHERD 2322 N. McColl. - McAllen 682-2092 CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS 5609 S 29th St. - McAllen 682-4881 CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS 2Mile & Bryan Rd Mission. CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS Missonaries • 580-2570 CHRISTIAN SCIENCE CHURCH 911 N. Main - McAllen 686-4241 CONWAY AVENUE BAPTIST CHURCH 2215 N. Conway • 585-2413 EL FARO BIBLE CHURCH 15 miles W. of Mission on Exp. 83 Sullivan City, TX • 585-5617 EL MESIAS UNITED METHODIST 209 E. 6th • 585-2334 FAITH BAPTIST CHURCH 3 miles N. Shary Rd. • 581-1465 FAITH FELLOWSHIP BIBLE CHURCH 1 mile N. Exp. 83 on Tom Gill Rd. 519-6311 FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 1302 Doherty • 585-1442 FIRST CHRISTIAN CHURCH 12th and Miller - Mission 585-7281 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1102 Ash St. • 585-4829 for worship schedule.

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 1101 Doherty • 585-1665 FREEDOM LIFE CHURCH 2214 W. Griffin Pkwy. • 519-7000 Mission GRACIA DIVINA MINISTRY 11809 N. Shary Rd. • 584-3112 GREAT OAKS COMMUNITY CHURCH 2722 N. Conway • 451-5500 Mission HERITAGE BAPTIST MCALLEN 2549 Lindbergh Ave. McAllen • 451-6358 IGLESIA ADVENTISTA DEL SEPTIMO DIA 1725 W. Griffin Parkway 581-9008 IGLESIA BAUTISTA BETANIA 851 S. Breyfogle Rd. • 585-5688 IGLESIA BAUTISTA CRISTO EL REY 1600 E. Bus. 83 - Mission IGLESIA BAUTISTA COLONIAL 3713 N. La Homa Rd. • 585-5332 IGLESIA BAUTISTA DEL VALLE 217 W. Mile 3 Rd. • 424-1602 Palmhurst IGLESIA DEL PUEBLO 7500 West Expressway 83 581-1900 IGLESIA DEL DIVINO REDENTOR 1020 North Los Ebanos Rd 585-5898

IGLESIA PENTECOSTES NUEVA VIDA A/G 211 W. Mile 3 Road Palmhurst • 956-342-9711 Rev. Candelario Banda

LA RESPUESTA CHURCH 405 W. 12th Street • 585-0787 MISSION CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1 mi. E. 495 • 585-6683 NEW HOPE AT THE BORDER 905 N. Conway • 369-3603 NORTH MISSION CHURCH OF CHRIST 1410 E. Mile 3 Rd. • 585-0146 Palmhurst NORTH PALMVIEW APOSTOLIC CHURCH 7612 W. 6 Mile Ln. ONLY THRU JESUS 1511 E. Mile 2 Rd. Mission • 918-760-1625 OUR LADY QUEEN OF ANGELS One-half mile South Leo Avenue La Joya • 585-5223 OUR LADY OF FATIMA CHURCH 6634 El Camino Real • Granjeno OUR LADY OF LOURDES CHURCH 2.5 miles S. Conway (FM 1016) Mission OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE CATHOLIC CHURCH 620 Dunlap • 585-2623 OUR LADY OF THE HOLY ROSARY CHURCH 923 Matamoros St. • 581-2193 PALM VALLEY CHURCH 1720 E. Griffin Pkwy. 585-3203 PEÑITAS BAPTIST CHURCH 1/3 Mile S. of Exp.83 on FM 1427 583-6236 PRIMERA BAPTIST CHURCH Corner of 6th & Oblate 585-4711

PROMISE LAND CHURCH 2300 E. Palm Circle (Corner of 495) Mission, TX 78572 • 624-9307 RIVER OF LIFE CHURCH 901 S. Shary Rd. (Located in the Holiday Inn Express Conference Room) 451-4838 SAN CRISTOBAL MAGALLANES & COMPANIONS PARISH

3805 Plantation Grove Blvd., Ste. 5

Mission • 580-4551

SAN MARTIN DE PORRES 5 mi. N. Conway, 1/2 Mile West Alton • 585-8001 & 585-8002 SPIRIT OF PEACE EV. LUTHERAN CHUCH 3104 Los Milagros Mission • 581-1822 ST. JOHN OF THE FIELDS CATHOLIC CHURCH 1052 Washington Ave. • 585-2325 ST. PAUL'S CATHOLIC CHURCH 1119 Francisco • 585-2701 ST. PETER & ST. PAUL EPISCOPAL CHURCH 2310 N. Stewart Rd. 585-5005 SHINING LIGHT BAPTIST CHURCH 6 1/8 N. Doffing Rd. (FM 492) 580-4078 TEMPLO BIBLICO 5 Mile/Conway 581-4981or 585-3831 TEMPLO EVANGELICO, M.B. CHURCH La Joya TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH 3905 W. 3 Mile Line • 585-3261 VALLEY FELLOWSHIP 1708 E. Griffin Parkway Mission • 424-7200

PRIMERA IGLESIA DEL VALLE APOSTOLIC ASSEMBLY 210 N. St. Marie. • 585-8651

KING, GUERRA, DAVIS & GARCIA ATTORNEYS AT LAW

DAVID H. GUERRA

DARRELL DAVIS

301 E. Tom Landry • Mission • 585-1622

MISSION AUTO ELECTRIC, INC. DBA

ER MAE EPQOU IW PMENT

Commercial Lawn Equipment “Since 1954”

915 West Bus. 83 • Mission, tX 78572 • (956) 581-7433

areas, heavy traffic and unfamiliar areas. • Eliminate distractions while driving, including the use of mobile devices. Texas law prohibits using a portable wireless device to read, write or send an electronic message unless the vehicle is stopped. • Buckle up everyone in the vehicle – it’s the law. • Slow down or move over for police, fire, EMS and Texas Department of Transportation vehicles and tow trucks stopped on the side of the road with emergency lights activated – it’s the law. Also, show the same courtesy to fellow drivers stopped along the road. • Drive defensively, as holiday travel may present additional challenges. • Don’t drive fatigued – allow plenty of time to reach your destination. • If you see a road haz-

ard or if you observe anything suspicious, report it to the nearest law enforcement agency. • Before your trip begins, make sure your vehicle is properly maintained and always double check to make sure all cargo is secure. • Monitor weather and road conditions wherever you are traveling. In the event of inclement weather, use extra caution on roadways. For road conditions in Texas, visit https://drivetexas.org. Additionally, U.S. citizens traveling abroad should always check the U.S. Department of State website for the latest security information related to their travel destination. Those traveling out of the country can also register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program at travel.state.gov/content/ passports/english/country.

page 10

March 9, 2018

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

Advance to MathCounts state competition

More than 100 middle school students from across the Rio Grande Valley competed Feb. 9 in MathCounts at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley’s Edinburg Campus. Several local students will now advance to the state competition in Austin on March 23 and 24. A national competition follows in April. Local students advancing to the state competition are Alex Gonzalez from Kenneth White Junior High School in Mission and teams representing Sharyland North Junior High and Sharyland B.L. Gray Junior High. Pictured at left, with the B.L. Gray Junior High School team, are Velinda Reyes, UTRGV assistant vice president for Community Relations and Operations; students Diego Fernandez, Aidan Bae, Victor Garza and Rebeca De La Garza; and Patricia Deanda, coach. Second row, from left are Lee Jones, AEP community affairs manager and president of the local Texas Society of Professional Engineers (TSPE), and Ramiro Gutierrez, treasurer for TSPE. Pictured on the right, with the Sharyland North Junior High team, are Velinda Reyes; students, Angel Rafael Lopez, Jordan Salinas and Allyson Knobel; Veronica Gonzalez, coach; and student Tyler Moss. Jones and Gutierrez are in the back.

MCISD Vice President seeks reelection My name is Roy Vela, and I’m seeking re-election to the Mission CISD Board of Trustees Place 1. I’m currently the Vice President of the School Board. I’m 42 years old, and was born in McAllen, but raised in Mission. Monica Vela and I have been married for over 21 years. She is a Health Science Teacher at Juarez-Lincoln High School in the La Joya School District. We have two children, Michael Antony Vela, 20, who attends UTSA, and Evelyn Deseree Vela, 13 who attends Rafael Cantu Junior High. My parents are Rogelio Vela & Ester E. Vela. I have one sister, Melinda Barrs. I graduated from Mission High School in 1994 and

from UTPA in 2005 with a Major in Kinesiology and a Minor in English. I’m currently employed by Driscoll Health Plan as a Provider Relations Representative. The following are the community affiliations I’m currently involved in: The

Roy Vela

Summer Knights Fishing Tournament, the Knights of Columbus Council # 2698 and CARITAS. I have a passion to serve and give back to the community and school system I attended that has given so much to me. The gratification I get in return is seeing all the smiles on the students’ faces when I see them in the schools, assemblies and even on the Friday Morning Rallies. We have come a long way, and have made significant progress over the last four years. In my opinion progress and improvement is success, and with that said, I humbly ask for your vote on May 5th for Place 1.

Lucia Leo-Díaz seeks seat on MCISD school board Ms. Lucia Leo-Díaz is a candidate for MCISD Board of Trustees Place 7. Lucia is the Mother of four adult children including Benicio (Gabriela), Edgar (Alejandra), Leonel Jr. and Victoria Analee Diaz. She is the daughter of the late Alexander John Leo of La Joya, Texas and Victoria Martinez of Mission. Her siblings Janie, Sandra, Patricia, Alex Jr., and Henry Leo, along with her siblings and children, are all Mission graduates. Ms. Leo-Diaz received her Bachelor and Master degrees in Social Work from UT-RGV and Our Lade of the Lake University in San Antonio. She is a licensed clinical social worker, board certified diplomate in clinical social work, board approved clinical supervisor and former president of the National Association of Social Workers Texas Branch. She’s employed with The U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs Valley Coastal Bend Health Care System since 2009 at the McAllen outpatient clinic. Ms. Leo-Diaz is a seasoned professional social

worker and mental health practitioner who is interested in increasing mental health

Lucia Leo-Diaz awareness and services to students, staff and parents. She strongly believes in a team approach to ensure that all students have access to counseling, as needed, to address teen suicide, bullying, mass shootings, LGBTQ issues, psychosocial conditions impacting their life, etc. Lucia has over 25 years of experience in the medical and mental health field. Her work began at the Mission

Housing Authority, Tropical Texas Center for MHMR, Mission Regional Medical Center, South Texas Behavioral Health Center, and for the last 9 years with the US Department of Veterans Affairs-Texas Valley Coastal Bend Health Care System. Ms. Leo-Díaz has also worked as a contract clinical social worker as well as an Adjunct Professor at UTRGV. Ms. Leo-Diaz was elected as National Association of Social Workers Texas Chapter President (2014–2017) and previously served as the elected Region 11 Board Member for NASW Texas. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for The American Board of Examiners in Clinical Social Work and as since 2015, as a 1st Lt. of the Texas State Guard Medical Battalion Delta Co. She is a graduate of Leadership Mission Class No. 19, member of Mission Lions Club, Hispanic Women Network of Texas-RGV and recognized as part of STC’s 100 Women, 100 Words-Influential Women of the RGV.

Mission resident on the ballot for MCISD school board My name is Xavier Longoria and I am seeking election for Place 6 on the Mission CISD School Board. My wife Nora is the administrator for Mission’s CTE Early College and we have been residents of Mission for 22 years. Our children, Steven and Michael, are both graduates of Veterans Memorial High School and Stanford University. My parents are the late Ricardo Javier Longoria and Telma Longoria of Mission and I have two siblings, Laurie Longoria of Mission and James R. Longoria of McAllen. Born and raised in Mission, I graduated from Mission High School in 1984 and hold a B.A.

in Finance from The University of Texas Pan American and a Masters in Educational Leadership from Lamar

University. With 11 years of experience in education, I am currently the technology teacher at JD Salinas Middle School in La Joya and having worked the previous 3 years as a GEAR UP Strategist at VMHS, I understand the challenges our students, parents, and community face and will work tirelessly to advocate for our children. “It takes a village to raise a child”... this is the reason my wife and I decided to make Mission our village. It was the best decision we ever made. I ask for your vote on May 5th knowing that together we will make a difference!

Xavier Longoria

Sullivan City starts construction on El Pinto Road project By Dave Hendricks Sullivan City started construction Wednesday on the El Pinto Road project. Workers started cutting through asphalt Wednesday morning, preparing for the complete reconstruction and repaving of El Pinto Road. Hidalgo County Precinct 3 and the Agua Special Utility District partnered with Sullivan City on the project, which will take roughly 45 days to complete, said Mayor Leo Garcia. “I told them that I’m going to fix El Pinto,” Garcia said, adding that he campaigned on repairing city

roads. “And it’s a done deal.” El Pinto Road is a key north-south artery in Sullivan City, connecting U.S. 83 with Rosendo Benavides Elementary School. Parents and residents complained about the road for years. Water lines underneath El Pinto Road weren’t protected by casings, said utility Director Ivan Sandoval, who represents Sullivan City on the seven-member board. Heavy trucks occasionally ruptured the water lines, creating small sinkholes and disrupting traffic. The largest sinkhole damaged a La Joya school bus last year. “Year after year, it’s just

been getting worse and worse,” Sandoval said. The utility district partnered with Sullivan City to fix El Pinto Road, providing $134,000 for the project, Sandoval said. After Sullivan City reconstructs the road, Precinct 3 will handle the repaving work. “We’re not going to patch,” Garcia said. “We’re going to overlay the whole road.” Construction started at the intersection with U.S. 83 and will gradually move north toward Tablero Road during the next seven weeks.

March 9, 2018 PUBLIC NOTICE The City of Alton will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, March 27, 2018 at 7:30 p.m. at the City Hall Legislative Chambers located at 509 S. Alton Boulevard to consider the following request: Si desea información en español, llame al departamento de Planeación de la Ciudad de Alton, (956) 432-0760. REZONE REQUEST: MAR Design & Construction is requesting to rezone the property legally described as a 1.49 acre tract of land out of Lot 40-4, West Addition to Sharyland Subdivision, Hidalgo County, Texas from “R-2” Single Family Residential District to “R-3” Single Family Residential District. The public is invited to attend and express support for or opposition to this application. You may also file written support or opposition to by 12:00 noon on March 27, 2018, for the Planning and Zoning and the City Commission. For questions please call Jeff Underwood, Assistant City Manager at (956) 432-0760.

theclassifieds

page 11

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

buy • sell • trade • rent • hire

this page is your oyster opening up to a world of opportunity

Classified Rate:

1 Week = $7.00 2 Weeks = $10.00 4 Weeks = $14.00

Make it happen, we’re located at 1217 N. Conway in Mission, TX Come on in! Our hours of operation are Mon. - Fri. 8 - 5 p.m. If you can’t drop by, mail it! P.O. Box 399, Mission, TX 78573 Submit by email to info@progresstimes.net or pay by phone 956-585-4893. The deadline to get your classified in is Tuesday at 5 p.m. ORDINANCE NO. 02-26-18 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALMHURST ADOPTING AND ENACTING REVISED RATES FOR GARBAGE COLLECTION, WHEREAS THE CITY ADOPTS THE FOLLOWING: $25.13 FOR ONE CART; $32.72 FOR TWO CARTS; $45.75 FOR THREE CARTS. READ, CONSIDERED, AND PASSED THIS THE 26TH DAY OF FEBRUARY 2018 Ramiro J. Rodriguez, Jr., Mayor Attest: Richard Garcia, City Secretary

THE STATE OF TEXAS NOTICE TO RESPONDENT: “You have been sued. You may employ an attorney. If you or your attorney do not file a written answer with the clerk who issued this citation by 10:00 a.m. on the Monday next following the expiration of forty two days after you were served this citation and petition, a default judgment may be taken against you.” To: RAYMOND MANNING, MICHAEL MANNING, and THE HEIRS AND UNKNOWN HEIRS OF RAYMOND MANNING, and THE HEIRS AND UNKNOWN HEIRS OF MICHAEL MANNING, Defendants Greeting: You are hereby commanded to appear by filing a written answer to the Plaintiff’s petition at or before 10:00 o’clock a.m. of the first Monday after the expiration of 42 days from the date of issuance of this citation, the same being Monday the 26th day of March, 2018 at or before 10 o’clock a.m., before the 275th District Court of Hidalgo County, at the Courthouse in Edinburg, Texas. Said Plaintiff’s Petition was filed on January 23, 2018 in this case, numbered C-0258-18-E on the docket of said court. An amended original petition was filed January 29, 2018. The names of the parties to the cause are as follows: HERITAGE SQUARE RECREATION, INC., Plaintiff and RAYMOND MANNING, MICHAEL MANNING, and THE HEIRS AND UNKNOWN HEIRS OF RAYMOND MANNING, and THE HEIRS AND UNKNOWN HEIRS OF MICHAEL MANNING, Defendants. A brief statement of the nature of the suit is as follows, to-wit: The suit seeks to have judgment against the Defendants and to foreclose on the lien held by the Plaintiff for unpaid and delinquent assessments assessed against the property that belongs to or may belong to the Defendant, being Lot 7, Block 1, Heritage Square Subdivision Unit 2, and addition to the City of Mission, Hidalgo County, Texas. An order of sale of the property is requested in the Plaintiff’s Petition. If this citation is not served within ninety days after the date of its issuance, it shall be returned unserved. The officer executing this writ shall promptly served the same according to requirements of law, and the mandates thereof, and make due return as the law directs. Issued and given under my hand and the Seal of said court at office in Edinburg, Hidalgo County, Texas, on this FEBRUARY 8, 2018.

Autos 2003 CHEVROLET C A V A L I E R , 4DR, blue, oneowner, 60,482 ORIGINAL MILES, air conditioning works great, $3,500 (willing to negotiate), very dependable car, just recently purchased

a new one, call me @ 361-522-9815 to see, located in Mission, TX.

8168 or 956-4322437.

For Rent

HOUSE FOR SALE, 1 bedroom/1 bath frame home to be moved, good condition, call 956-5854751 for more information. 2009 KYMCO

COUNTRY HOME FOR rent in Delmita, TX, 1 1/2 bedroom, 1 bath, refrigerator, stove, for more information call 956-844-

For Sale

250cc motorcycle, $1,500, call 956259-9611 for more information.

Miscellaneous 250 GALLON PROPANE tank with regulator, good condition, no rust, call 956-585-4751 for more information.

Attention

Auction of Vehicles

According to the provision in the Transportation Code 683, Sub-section B, 683.012, Texas Department of Transportation informs you that the below mentioned cars have been taken into custody by the Sullivan City Police Department and will be sold at auction. For information on vehicles you can communicate with the Sullivan City Police Department at (956) 485-9208. The auction will be held at 500 South Cenizo Dr. Sullivan City, TX (The Police Department) on March 17, 2018. Auction will be starting at 10:00 AM, and will be held according to the law. Payment will be in cash (US currency) or certified checks. Sullivan City reserves the right to accept the best and the most advantageous offers. The vehicles are auctioned under their conditions which there are no guarantees and/or refunds.

Atención

Subasta de Vehículos

De acuerdo a la disposición en el Código de Transportación 683, Sub sección B, 683.012, del Departamento de Transporte de Texas, informamos que los autos abajo mencionados han sido tomados en custodia por el Departamento de Policía de La Ciudad de Sullivan City y serán vendidos en subasta. Para información de los vehículos puede comunicarse al Departamento de Policía de Sullivan al (956) 485-9208. La subasta será en 500 South Cenizo Dr., Sullivan City, TX (El Departamento de Policía) El SABADO 17 de MARZO del 2018. Inicio de subasta será a las 10:00 AM, y que será llevada de acuerdo a la ley. El pago será en efectivo (moneda americana) o cheques certificados. La Ciudad de Sullivan se reserva el derecho de aceptar la mejor y la más ventajosa de las ofertas. Los vehículos se subastaran en las condiciones que se encuentran no hay garantías ni devoluciones. 1. 2004 (RED) CHEVROLET SILVERADO 2GCEC13T141338204 2. 2003 (GREY) PONTIAC GRAND PRIX 1G2WP5K23F174630 3. 2005 (GREY) FORD F-150 1FTPX12505FA40222 4. 1997 (BLACK) FORD EXPLORER 1FMDU34X9VUD47112 5. 2004 (MAROON) PONTIAC GRAND PRIX 2G2WP542X41256028 6. 1996 (GREEN) CHEVROLET SILVERADO 2GTEK19RXT1500957 7. 2010 (SILVER) FORD FUSION 3FAHP0HA5AR155534 8. 2005 (BLACK) CHEVROLET TAHOE 1GNEC13Z45R251062 9. 2008 (BLACK) FORD CROWN VICTORIA 2FAHP71V08X101477 10. 2007 (BLACK) FORD CROWN VICTORIA 2FAHP71W07X155921 11. 2007 (BLACK) FORD CROWN VICTORIA 2FAHP71W67X155857 12. 2007 (BLACK) FORD CROWN VICTORIA 2FAHP71W57X120064 13. 2003 (GREY) CHRYSLER PT CRUISER 3C4FY48B43T523979 14. 2008 (BLACK) CHEVROLET COBALT 1G1AK58F787331884 15. 2006 (GREY) CHEVROLET EQUINOX 2CNDL73F866150080 $ 30.00 DOLLAR PROCESSING FEE

ATTENTION: Investigator J. Pruneda

page 12

March 9, 2018

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

Enter to win a family 4pk

of tickets!

presents a

drawing contest! APRIL 18 -22

Children in Pre-K 4 thru 5th grades are invited to enter their original, themed artwork for

Moana & Princess Characters

on a WHITE, 81/2 X 11 piece of paper

to Progress Times

1217 N. Conway Ave. • Mission, TX

Clearly print the child’s first name, grade, school, parent’s name and phone number on the back of the drawing so we can notify the winners. Several 4-packs of tickets will be awarded.

Deadline for submissions: Monday, March 26, 2018 • 5pm

No purchase necessary. Parent/Legal Gardian must pick up tickets and must be over 18. If tickets not picked up within 24 hours of notification tickets will be awarded to runner-up. Employees of Progress Times and their families are not eligible.