Friday, December 7, 2018 - PT ISSUE

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Friday, December 7, 2018

Los Ebanos, Texas

2018

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International Ferry Los Ebanos

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Vol. 47 - #16 H 80 L63

Your Hometown Newspaper, Bringing Communities Together.

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www.ptrgv.com

Mission residents gather at annual Holiday Lights & Delights event to celebrate Christmas season

INSIDE Former Officer Running Game Rooms

By Jamie Treviño

A former detention officer at the Hidalgo County jail was recently arrested for running game rooms near Alamo. Dave Hendricks has the story about Pedro Cruz and what happened with the eight-liner establishments.

See Pg. 8

Mission News Updates

Ready for the holidays, Mission held an event that has been a tradition in the city for years.

The annual Holiday Lights & Delights event, held last Friday night at Leo Peña Placita Park, drew Missionites from every corner of the city. Incorporating live musical performances, several food stands run by local vendors, artisanal craft stands, pictures with Santa Claus, a bicycle raffle, a live nativity and various displays of lights and inflatable creatures, the event was packed.

Kicked off with an invocation by Father Roy Snipes, the city of Mission prayed before the festivities got started.

“It’s a beautiful time in

the neighborhood as we get ready for the sweet season of Christmas,” Snipes said.

“As we prepare with great anticipation and appreciation to celebrate the mystery and the humble magnificence of Your birth among us, we light up our Christmas Tree, symbolizing tidings of comfort and joy for all humanity.”

Mayor Armando O’caña, council members Jessica Ortega-Ochoa and Ruben Plata and acting City Manager Randy Perez, turned on the lights for the large Christmas Tree in the park from the park’s newly-renovated amphitheater, where residents of Mission gathered before spreading out throughout the

See TREE LIGHTING Pg. 11

The view from outside Mission’s annual Holiday Lights & Delights event last Friday night at Leo Peña Placita Park. Progress Times photo by Jamie Treviño.

Alton bank hosts pictures with Santa

By Jose De Leon III

MCISD has recently changed a board policy at their last meeting, and the city’s EDC, under new leadership, has more information about the ongoing Madero Bridge project.

See inside for more details.

See Pg. 10

SPORTS

Mission Veterans Going Strong Leah Herrera takes a photo with Santa Clause at the Alton Lone Star National Bank location Tuesday, Dec. 4, 2018. Progress Times photo by Jose De Leon III.

We have the latest on the Veterans Memorial High School football team, now on their way to the regional finals. Bryan Ramos has the latest on their progress, as well as Landry Gilpin’s record-breaking success.

See Pg. 6, 7 & 8

INDEX

Entertainment...pg. 2 Lifestyle................pg. 3 Sports....................pg. 6 Obituaries...........pg. 9 Classifieds..........pg.11

WEATHER 5 DAYS FORECAST

Dec. 8

H 68 L46

Dec. 9

H 64 L43

Dec. 10

H 65 L41

20% Precip.

0% Precip.

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Dec. 11

H71 L56 10% Precip.

Dec. 12

H 80 L59 10% Precip.

With her one-year-old daughter in tow, Alton resident Berlin Silguero reached a major milestone as a mother: her child’s first photo with Santa Clause.

Silguero took her daughter, Evelyn, to take a photo with Santa Clause Tuesday at Alton’s Lone Star National Bank. Though the shoot got off to a rocky start as Evelyn cried as soon as she saw Santa, Silguero was able to calm her down as soon as she posed next to her daughter.

“This is going to make a lovely photo, her grandma will love it,” Silguero said.

LJISD Sports & Learning Complex holds first Howling Bash for Winter Texans

By Jamie Treviño Hoping to foster a more unified relationship with their Winter Texan neighbors, the LJISD Sports & Learning Complex recently held their first Howling Bash last Saturday.

Located at 1801 N. Western Rd. in Mission, TX, the La Joya Independent School District’s Sports & Learning Complex includes a natatorium, planetarium, tennis courts and a full golf course called Howling Trails.

During the Howling Bash, which the district aims to hold once a month, Winter Texans are able to take advantage of the grounds with access to the public pools, courts, planetarium and golf course. The event took place last Saturday morning, and was host to a co-ed golf tournament, screenings of a couple of short films at the planetarium, pickleball, lap swimming and water aerobics classes.

“They kind of requested it, and we were talking

Silguero’s family was one of the many who arrived at Alton’s Lone Star National Bank Tuesday, located at 605 S. Alton Blvd., to take a photo with Santa. As the Alton location opened last summer, the bank celebrated its first Christmas event in the city.

“It’s just something to say hi with to the community and get them in the Christmas spirit,” Pamela Montemayor, community relations coordinator for Lone Star said at the event.

As part of the event, children took photos with Santa and the Lone Star National Bank mascot Cowboy Cash.

Families got their photos

with Santa printed within minutes of the photo.

Dressed as Santa for the photo ops was Lone star Advisory Board Member Jorge Medina, Montemayor said.

Montemayor noted that the bank had similar events earlier in the week at their Rio Grande City and Brownsville locations and have plans for similar Pictures with Santa events in their Pharr and McAllen locations later this month.

The bank is also participating in a toy drive through Dec. 21, the public is invited

See ALTON SANTA Pg. 11

Hidalgo says City Councilman Rudy Franz owes $22,000 in permit fees

By Dave Hendricks

Winter Texans enjoying the planetarium at the LJISD Sports & Learning Complex Howling Bash event last Saturday. Photo courtesy of La Joya ISD. with [LJISD Superintendent] Dr. Benavides, and she mentioned doing something to involve the Winter Texans,” Victor Garza, the LJISD Sports & Learning Complex Director, said. “We as a district, we came into their neighborhood, so we’re neighbors in the system, and we want to make sure we’re all in it for the sake of the children [in the La Joya school district].”

The golf tournament was

the most popular part of the first Howling Bash, with 36 teams of four people (144 total) signed up and competing.

“A lot of them are members [with Howling Trails], so they’re already here,” Garza said. “We have some that golf at 7:30 in the morning, some at 10 in the morning and some that golf at 2 in

See HOWLING BASH Pg. 10

Hidalgo plastered “Notice of Public Nuisance” signs on buildings owned by City Councilman Rudy Franz last week after concluding he failed to pay $22,000 in permit fees.

After a review of city records, Hidalgo determined Rudy Franz and his wife, Yolanda Franz — who own National Tow and American Tow Service — failed to pay $22,000 for tow truck and wrecker permits since 2014.

“If there’s a discrepancy, we’re taking care of it,” Rudy Franz said, declining to comment further.

City Manager Julian Gonzalez said Hidalgo discovered the discrepancy when reviewing the permit process for a new applicant.

Hidalgo calculated that National Tow owed $13,750 and American Tow Service owed $8,250, according to city records. Both businesses had delinquent permit

"Notice of Public Nuisance" sign at the National Tow building on South Bridge Street.

Progress Times Dave Hendricks.

photo

fees dating back to 2014, two years after Rudy Franz joined the City Council.

It’s unclear why Hidalgo apparently never attempted to collect.

“Commissioner Franz says that he paid them,” Gonzalez said, but city staff can’t find any record of the

See HIDALGO Pg. 11

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LA JOYA • PALMVIEW

page 2

Coming Attractions December 6-8 • McAllen’s Memorial High School presents the musical “Sister Act” for their 30th annual musical production. Performances will be at the William Hetrick Auditorium at the school, 101 E. Hackberry Ave., on Thursday and Friday at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday at 2 p.m.

Tickets are $10 and can be reserved by calling 956-632-5258.

December 7 • The Valley Symphony Orchestra presents Concert III – “A Touch of Frost” at the McAllen Performing Arts Center, 801 Convention Center Blvd. from 8 to 10 p.m.

Tickets are $40, $50 and $60 per person and may be purchased at the McAllen Convention Center Box Office, online at valleyorchestra. org or at ticketmaster.com. For questions, call the VSO Box Office to 956-661-1615.

December 7-8 • The Veterans Memorial High School Harlequin Drama Club is taking the Broadway and movie favorite musical “Mamma Mia” to stage. Show times are 7 p.m. at the VMHS Performing Arts Center, 700 East Two Mile Road in Mission. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.

Tickets will be $10 for adults and $5 for students. Tickets may be purchased at the door on show nights or at the VMHS front office from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call 956-323-3000.

• Robert Vela High School, 801 E. Canton Rd. in Edinburg, presents “Chicago the Musical.” General admission is $10 and $5 for seniors. Showtimes vary. Call 956-289-2650 for a complete schedule and tickets.

• Calvary Baptist Church, 1600 Harvey St. in McAllen, will present their Christmas Classic Choir & Orchestra concert, “Behold a Savior.” Under the direction of Chuck Olson, performances will be held on Friday at 6:45 p.m. and Saturday at 1and 4 p.m. Admission is free.

December 8 • The next Sunset Live concert begins at 6 p.m. at the Oval Park outside of the McAllen Convention Center. Featuring regional and national bands ranging in style from Indie to Blues playing on one stage it includes outdoor activities, food trucks, beverages and local artisans. For more information on the full lineup and concert series, visit mcallenconventioncenter.net.

• The 24th Annual Mid-Valley Lighted Christmas Parade begins at 6 p.m. on Texas Blvd. in Weslaco, with this year’s theme, “A Very Disney Christmas.” The Mid-Valley Lighted Christmas Parade features decorated floats, marching bands, classic cars and more decked out in lights and holiday décor.

December 8 • The Guitar Ensemble Studio Recital at the UTRGV Performing Arts Complex, 1201 W.

December 7, 2018

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com University Dr. in Edinburg, begins at 7 p.m.

General admission is $5 per person, and tickets are available at patron.utrgv.edu.

December 9 • The UTRGV Flute Ensemble will hold the Eighth Annual UTRGV Flautista Navidad: Carol & Candlelight at 2:30 p.m. at the UTRGV Performing Arts Complex, 1201 W. University Dr. in Edinburg. Admission is $5 per person. Celebrate the season with music and Christmas carol sing-along by candlelight, under the direction of Dr. Krista Jobson, UTRGV flute professor. For special accommodations, call 956-665-3881. For tickets, go to patron.utrgv.edu.

• The Rio Grande Valley Concert Band will kick off its 2018-19 season with a Christmas Concert at 3 p.m. at Our Savior Lutheran Church, 1105 W. Fern, McAllen. Approximately 40 early Winter Texan and local musicians will perform a wide range of Christmas music. The concert is open to the public. Admission is free, but a free will donation will be collected.

December 11 • The UTRGV Master Chorale and Brownsville Festival Chorus, Orchestra and guest soloists will perform the Christmas portion of Handel’s Messiah. Conducted by Dr. Sean Taylor, the concert will also feature choirs from Pace, Rivera, Lopez, Veterans, Porter, Los Fresnos, San Benito and Harlingen South High School. It will be held at 7 p.m. at the UTRGV Performing Arts Complex, 1201 W. University Dr. in Edinburg. General admission is $10 and $5 for seniors and students.

For tickets, go to tickets.vendini.com. For special accommodations, call 956-882-7025.

• A performance of Handel’s Messiah begins at 7 p.m. at the UTRGV Performing Arts Complex, 1201 W. University Dr. in Edinburg. Admission is $10 per person and $5 for seniors and students. Go to patron.utrgv.edu for tickets.

December 12 • Dr. Krista Jobson directs the UTRGV Flute Ensemble in a concert, “An Evening of Flute,” at 5 p.m. at the UTRGV Performing Arts Complex, 1201 W. University Dr. in Edinburg. Admission is $5 per person.

The performance includes the works of Wil Offermans, Jose Valentino, UTRGV guitar professor Hector Rodriguez and more. For special accommodations, call 956-665-3881.

Go to patron.utrgv.edu for tickets.

• The Upper Valley Art League will host an acrylic painting class with Betty Vermeer as instructor. It will be held from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Kika de la Garza Fine Arts Center, 921 E. 12th St., Mission. Cost is $20 for UVAL members and $30 for nonmenbers. All materials will be furnished to produce a 9x12 painting. Contact Vermeer at lbvermeer@ yahoo.com to sign up.

(For more Coming Attractions, go to ptrgv.com)

La Joya ISD Winter Choral Festival kicks off December concert series

LA JOYA – La Joya Independent School District student artists are preparing for a series of free holiday concerts at the Alejandro “Alex” H. Saenz Performing Arts Center this month.

Members of the community are invited to December’s holiday concerts featuring La Joya ISD choir, orchestra, classical guitar, dance, mariachi, conjunto and band groups.

This Friday, Dec. 7, the holiday season kicks off with the Second Annual Winter Choral Festival. This event features choir groups from all three high schools and 8th grade honor members from all eight middle schools, as

they perform holiday favorites. For the grand finale, all 270 students will be on stage for one final selection not to be missed.

The remainder of the month features a packed line-up. All concerts are free and open to the public and will be performed on the following schedule: • Dec. 10 – La Joya High School Band Cluster Winter Concert, 6 p.m.; • Dec. 11 – La Joya High School Choir Cluster Winter Concert, 6 p.m.; • Dec 12 – La Joya High School Orchestra & Classical Guitar Winter Concert, 6 p.m.; • Dec. 13 – Juarez-Lin-

coln High School Band Cluster Winter Concert, 6 p.m.; • Dec. 15 – TMEA All-Region MS Band Concert, 4 p.m.; • Dec. 17 – JFK Christmas program, 6 p.m.; • Dec. 18 – La Joya High School Fine Arts Winter Concert, 7 p.m.; • Dec. 19 – Irene Garcia Middle School Orchestra Winter Concert, 6 p.m.; and • Dec. 20 – Palmview High School Band Cluster Winter Concert, 7 p.m.

Hours are subject to change. For event updates, call 956-323-2898 or visit lajoyaisd.com under the departments/curriculum & instruction/fine arts path.

McALLEN – The McAllen Wind Ensemble, under the baton of director Roger Olivarez, “How the McAllen Wind Ensemble Stole Christmas – A Very Grinchy Holiday Concert,” at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 14, at the McAllen Performing Arts Center.

The concert features Christmas music from all genres to put the audience in the holiday mood. As the title suggests, expect to hear some “Grinch-iness” sneak into the program.

Special guest artist will be the Rio Grande Valley Children’s Chorus.

The Rio Grande Valley Children’s Chorus (RGVCC) is a non-profit chorale group made up of children ages 7 to 16 from across the Rio Grande Valley.

The RGVCC is a passion project of Julito Pepito and Mildred Molito. Both directors have their own adult church choirs. After a show in 2012, when they both

brought children for musical presentations, they explored the idea of a combined children’s choir, and the RGVCC was born.

The choir sings regularly at the Sacred Heart Parish of Edinburg, and has been invited to participate in several musical programs in the Valley for the past five years.

Recently they were front acts at The Voice of Hope Concert and the Tom Booth concert of the Sacred Heart Parish.

The group has also travelled to perform at special events across the state.

The concert will also feature special appearances by Santa Claus and that “cuddly as a cactus” and “charming as an eel” character, the Grinch.

Both beloved characters will be available before the concert for photos with children of all ages.

Tickets start at $10 and are available at the McAllen Convention Center Box Office, ticketmaster.com, and

at the door the night of the concert.

For more information, visit mcallenwindensemble. org or call 682-227-2101.

McALLEN – Quinta Mazatlan is swinging in the holiday season with a music concert in the forest with the Swing Street Big Band on Thursday, Dec. 13, at 6 p.m.

The Swing Street Big Band is a 17-piece show orchestra consisting of band directors who currently teach in the Rio Grande Valley and retired band directors from the Midwest who are now Winter Texans.

Sit back and listen to seasonal classics set to the up-

beat rhythm of swing, jazz and blues style music. Classics such as “Let it Snow,” “Sleigh Ride,” “Jingle Bells Rock” and “Feliz Navidad” will get you in the Holiday spirit.

Special guest, Santa Claus, will be on hand for families to bring a camera to capture the moment..

Admission is $5. Quinta Mazatlan is located 600 Sunset in McAllen. Call 956681-3370 for information.

Concert brings ‘Grinch’ into Christmas

Holidays swing in at Quinta Mazatlán

Mission First United Methodist Church 1101 Doherty Ave. • Mission TX 78572

(956) 585-1665

12/23 9:00 am & 11:00 am Christmas Cantata “What Sweeter Music” a Festival of Carols arr. By Mark Hayes, directed by Daniel Steenken 12/24 5:00 pm Children’s play & Christmas Eve Service 7:00pm & 9:00pm Traditional Christmas Eve candlelight services All Christmas Eve services followed by cookies & punch reception in the Fellowship Hall.

Sunday Services:

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

Join us for communion the First Sunday of every month.

every Friday @ 5:30pm

Everyone is Welcome!

www.missionfumc.com

GPZ annual ‘Nights & Lights’ will shine bright

BROWNSVILLE – The Gladys Porter Zoo will host its annual holiday celebration, Zoo Nights and Lights, on Dec. 7 to 9 from 6 to 9 p.m. The event offers holiday spirit and fun for guests of all ages.

Enjoy live performances by local bands and choirs while taking in the dazzling light displays, hot chocolate and churros.

Keep an eye out for some of the zoo’s most infamous lighted attractions, including the animated dazzling collection of approximately 150 lighted animal and holiday fixtures.

A new lion themed tree has been added to the Christmas tree forest with the other zoo animal inspired trees on display. Each tree is adorned with some handcrafted ornaments inspired by peacocks, marine creatures, and reptiles.

Children can have pictures taken with Santa Claus, decorate a gingerbread cookie and create a unique holiday craft.

Tickets are on sale online at gpz.org or can be purchased at the gate. The price is $2.50 per ticket or visitors can donate a new, unwrapped toy for the Toys for Tots Campaign for admission.

For more information, call 956-547-7187.

IMAS opens Recent Acquisitions exhibit

MCALLEN – The “Recent Acquisitions” exhibit opens at the International Museum of Art & Science this Saturday, Dec. 8, featuring over a dozen artists in a mixed media collection including oil on canvas, acrylic, ceramic, ink, photography, metal sculpture, blown glass, and silkscreen.

Among these works of art is an original blown glass piece

by Dale Chihuly, May Green Basket, and a steel sculpture, “Tow Sided Box,” by the late Richard Hyslin, a Rio Grande Valley native.

Earlier this year, the Blanton Museum of Art formed a Texas consortium of museums to receive 500 unrestricted gifts of art. IMAS was selected to be a part of this consortium and received over 30 contemporary works of art during a draft-pick held earlier this year in Austin.

The exhibit will be on display in the Cardenas Gallery and is included with regular admission.

IMAS is located at 1900 W. Nolana Ave. in McAllen. Call 956-681-2800 for information.

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December 7, 2018

Entries now accepted for 13th Mission Quilt Show

EVENTS

CALENDAR

Tour takes step back in time

The public can join staff from the Mission Historical Museum as they host a historical tour of the City of Mission on Wednesday, Dec. 12 from 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Learn about some of Mission’s landmarks and historically significant buildings such as The Border Theater, Our Lady of Guadalupe Church and La Lomita and meet Manuel Hinojosa, local historian and Tom Landry mural artist. The tour fee is $10 and includes breakfast and a Mission T-shirt. To sign up for the tour, call the museum office at 956-580-8646.

Space is limited.

Juan and Ana Flores of Mission celebrated the 15th birthday of their daughter, Miah, with a reception held Oct. 27 at Mario’s Banquet Hall in Mission. Miah is a ninth grade student at Sharyland Pioneer High School. (Austin Studio)

Brithany Ibarra was honored by her parents, Francisca Martinez and Miguel Ibarra of Mission, on the occasion of her 15th birthday. A church service was held Nov. 23 at Cristo Rey Lutheran Church in Mission followed by a reception at La Mansion Ballroom in Mission. Her escort was Miguel Ibarra of Mission. The honoree is a ninth grade student at Mission High School. (Austin Studio)

MHM program highlights folk medicine history

The next installment of the Mission Historical Museum Lecture Series hosts Dr. Servando Z. Hinojosa in a program on “Mexican American Folk Medicine in Local Perspective.” It will be held on Saturday, Dec. 15, at 11 a.m. at the museum at 900 Doherty Ave. in downtown Mission. Admission is free to the public.

For generations, Mexicans and Mexican Americans have drawn from folk medical traditions to diagnose and treat ills. Different kinds of specialists have emerged over the years, each taking different approaches when treating clients. This presentation introduces the viewer to the world of folk healers, focusing on their different skill sets and the materials they use.

Dr. Hinojosa teaches in the anthropology program of the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, where he lec-

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www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

Dr. Servando Hinojosa

tures on Mesoamerica, religion and Mexican American folk medicine. His research centers on the spiritual and health practices of the highland Maya people of Guatemala. He has taught at the university since 1998.

For more information, call 956-580-8646 or go to missionmuseum.org.

December 8 – It is Recycled Ornament Craft Day at the Edinburg World Birding Center, from 2 to 4 p.m. Instead of buying new ornaments and decorations, make ones out of recycled and natural materials. Fee is $2 for members and $4 for nonmembers. Registration is required; call 956-381-9922. For information, call 956-381-9922. EWBC is located at 714 S. Raul Longoria Rd. December 8 – Join Edinburg World Birding Center staff for Ducks & Donuts –and snack on donuts while birding at the north pond overlook from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Fee is $3 for member and $5 for nonmembers. Registration is required; call 956-381-9922. For information, call 956-381-9922. EWBC is located at 714 S. Raul Longoria Rd. December 11 – The next meeting of Amigos de Los Niños de Mexico organization begins at 1:30 p.m. at the First Methodist Church, 228 S. Main St. in Donna. The group gives children a better Christmas each year, and the public is invited to become a member, sign up for a committees, make a donation, gather needed items, join the Christmas Caravan and/or party with Los Niños on Christmas Day. Items needed to share with the children: Crayons, 24 to a box; ruled notebooks, one-subject style; #2 pencils, not sharpened; stuffed toys, not over 12 inches tall; toys for boys and girls suitable up to age 12.

Items can be brought to the meeting. For questions, contact Ted Schnase at 956-900-7720; Jane Phillips, 816-797-3735; or Carol Schnase, 956-332-8855.

December 15 – Add holiday cheer to the backyard with DIY birdseed ornaments in a class from 10 a.m. to noon at the Edinburg World Birding Center. Fee is $3 per package which includes cookie cutter and seeds or $5 for packages with small bundt-shaped molds and seeds. Price does not include the regular EWBC admission fee. Registration is required at least two days before program; call 956-381-9922. For information, call 956-381-9922. EWBC is located at 714 S. Raul Longoria Rd. December 15 – The Taco Trot 5K Run/Walk begins at 8 a.m. at the Mission Hike and Bike Trail. Entry fee is $25 per person. Register at soleracing.org or Valley Running Co. (For more Events, go to ptrgv.com.)

The Mission Historical Museum (MHM) is now accepting entries for its 13th Annual Quilt Show in three categories: hand-quilted bed quilts, machine-quilted bed quilts and wall hangings. The show is open to all quilters.

Entry forms and quilts will be accepted at MHM, 900 Doherty in downtown Mission, through Wednesday, Jan. 2, 2019, during the regular hours and days of operation. The museum will be closed Dec. 24 and 25, and Jan 1.

Quilts may be pre-registered, and the quilts themselves may be delivered on any date during this time, through the Jan. 2 deadline.

Organizers urge early registration due to limited space.

Entries are accepted on a first-in/first accepted basis, and the museum reserves the right to close entries before the deadline due to the limited space. This will allow for the best possible presentation for all entries.

Only one item per person may be submitted. Any quilt entered in this show within the past five years is not eli-

gible for entry this year.

The quilts will be judged by a panel of independent judges, with ribbons awarded for first, second and third places in each category. Bestof-show and viewers’ choice ribbons will also be awarded.

There are two important changes for this year’s show.

The Museum’s show has been moved back a month to accommodate quilters who would like to enter the RGV Quilt Show. Quilts will be exhibited in the museum’s Shary building.

Quilts and wall hangings exhibit must be ready to hang with a sleeve for display purposes. Quilts may be entered by submitting an entry form, which is available at the museum.

The show opens on Saturday, Jan. 12, 2019, and runs through Saturday, Feb. 9, 2019. An awards reception and Turning of the Quilts program will take place on Friday, Jan. 18, 2019, at 2 p.m.

Admission is free to the museum. For information, call 956-580-8646.

International Festival is tradition worth savoring

PHARR – If you’ve ever savored homestyle Greek food, or are more of a handmade Eastern European fare fan, don’t’ miss this year’s International Festival. It will be held on Saturday, Dec. 8, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at St. George Orthodox Church, 704 W. Sam Houston in Pharr.

The International Festival, held at St. George’s Orthodox Church in Pharr is perfect for picking up holiday gifts, as well as for-sale specialty foods at this culinary fundraiser while being an educational outing for the entire family. It offers free entry, parking, children’s activities and a wide variety of entertainment.

The festival helps to collect food and funds for St. George Food Pantry, which serves over 100 families twice a month. Receive a homemade cookie as a thank you when you contribute to our “Give a Can; Get a Cookie” campaign. The following items will be accepted during the festival: monetary donations, canned goods, non-perishables food items, new or lightly used blankets, coats, children’s clothing or toys, for special Christmas distribution.

“You won’t find anything like this Festival here in the

Valley,” shares Judie Geil, long-time St. George parishioner. “Even though I now live in Houston, I wouldn’t miss it for the world.” Geil’s special German beirocks and strudel are already made up and ready to sell.

Festival favorites include Greek layered pastitcio, spanakopita, grilled souvlaki and stuffed grape leaves.

On the Russian side of the gastronomic globe, try savory cabbage rolls, pirogues, hot blini or Ukrainian honey cake.

Activities and information will be offered by the Museum of South Texas History, International Museum of Art & Science, the McAllen Public Library, Texas Master Naturalists, Texas Master Gardeners, UTRGV CHAPS, the Lambs Loom, Gem Valley Farmers Market, Milkweed & Monarchs, and more. The “Two by Two Petting Zoo” will be available for children from 10 a.m. to noon.

The year’s entertainment schedule includes the UTRGV Tuba and Euphonium Ensemble, playing holiday favorites and the much-beloved Mariachi Nueva Tradicion. The children’s mariachi and conjunto groups from Creative Arts Studio will join the day’s

performances, as well as members of the Colibrí children’s choir.

Elizabeth Perdomo, festival director, said, “Each year we try to include some performances from past favorites as well as adding something new. This year, the event will open with Scottish Pipes and Drums, and close with Robert Soto and the South Texas Indian Dancers.

It should be a great day of music and dance!”

A special place for holiday shopping, pick up unique items created by artisans, crafters and farmers market vendors. Everything from local honey and tasty preserves, to handmade soap, beeswax candles, Eastern European folk art and handcrafted wood items will be for sale. Special vendors from Mexico will sell small batch bags of coffee grown in Mexico, handcrafted silver jewelry and more. Free guided tours of St. George Orthodox Church will be offered showcasing ancient liturgical icons.

Vegan and vegetarian options are available for some festival foods, including international soups. Besides take-home soup containers, frozen versions of many specialties will be available inside the church hall. Orga-

nizers recommend bringing a cooler to keep them cold in the car for the trip home.

To learn more about the festival, visit stgeorgetxfestival.com.

Celebrate Fiesta de Noche Buena at MOSTHistory

EDINBURG – Take the family out to enjoy the annual blended border-spirit event Fiesta de Noche Buena at the Museum of South Texas History (MOSTHistory) this Sunday, Dec. 9, from 1 to 5 p.m.

Returning this year is the popular posada, María and José’s search for an inn, through the museum exhibits. There will be a holiday performance by Edinburg North High School Mariachi Oro and many other groups, holiday karaoke, free activities, an artisan market and delicious traditional foods.

Then capture the moment with photos in front of the 15-foot Christmas tree or with Cowboy Santa.

Bring the whole family to enjoy the festivities.

The event is included in the regular museum admission. MOSTHistory is located at 200 N. Closner. For information, call 956-3836911.

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December 7, 2018

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

By Ed Sterling Texas Press Association

STATE CAPITAL HIGHLIGHTS

Former U.S. President George H.W. Bush dies Nov. 30

AUSTIN — Gov. Greg Abbott on Dec. 1 issued the following statement on the Nov. 30 death of George Herbert Walker Bush, the 41st president of the United States: “The state of Texas mourns with the nation at the passing of one of our greatest presidents. George H.W. Bush was an American hero and icon, he was a friend to all he met, he embodied class and dignity. Texans are genuinely honored that he called the Lone Star State home and we collectively grieve this monumental loss. On behalf of Texas, Cecilia and I offer our thoughts and prayers to the Bush family in their time of need.”

Bush, 94, a Republican, served as the president from 1989 to 1993. He served as vice president from 1981 to 1989 alongside President Ronald Reagan. He served as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives, Texas Congressional District 7, from 1967 to 1971, and went on to serve the nation in many other high-level appointed positions.

Fund transfer is completed Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar on Nov. 29 announced the transfer of $2.77 billion into the State Highway Fund and the Economic Stabilization (“Rainy Day”) Fund.

Each fund received more than $1.38 billion or 50 percent of the total transfer, Hegar said.

The transfer amounts are based on crude oil and natural gas production tax revenues in excess of 1987 collections. If either tax generates more revenue than the 1987 threshold, an amount

equal to 75 percent of the excess is transferred.

In November 2014, voters approved a constitutional amendment allocating at least half of these severance taxes to the Rainy Day Fund, with the remainder going to the SHF for use on non-toll highway construction, maintenance and right-of-way acquisition.

When fiscal 2018 ended on Aug. 31, the Rainy Day Fund balance was $11.04 billion. The new balance of $12.48 billion, not accounting for currently outstanding spending authority, will decline as agencies spend down the remaining appropriation authority, Hegar said.

Also, the high balance helps Texas maintain its AAA credit rating. “That’s why I have asked the Legislature to authorize me to invest a portion of the fund in a more prudent and responsible manner and use the returns to address the types of long-term liabilities that have crippled the finances of states such as Illinois and New Jersey. Significant portions of this money have not been keeping up with inflation, and we must not allow the power of this asset to erode over time,” Hegar added.

Returns reach landmark Comptroller Hegar on Nov. 29 announced his office had returned $1 billion in unclaimed property to rightful owners since he took office in January 2015.

“This landmark achievement represents the commitment this office has made to reuniting unclaimed property with its rightful owners,” Hegar said. “I’m proud of

the folks in our Unclaimed Property program, and I encourage everyone to go to our website and see if there is money waiting for them.”

About 830,000 claims have been approved while Hegar has been comptroller, he said, and since 2015, the comptroller’s office has redesigned its unclaimed property website and internal systems to make the claims process faster, easier and more efficient.

ClaimitTexas.org allows users to upload claim documentation and is mobile-optimized to make it easier to search for unclaimed property on smartphones and tablets. The state has returned more than $3 billion in unclaimed property to its rightful owners since the program’s inception in 1962, Hegar added.

Tax scammers target many Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton on Nov. 26 warned Texans that entities impersonating the Internal Revenue Service are sending fraudulent email messages.

Fraudsters may use the subject line “tax transcripts” in email messages that attempt to bait Texans into opening links and documents that contain malware designed to steal sensitive financial data.

Paxton said the IRS never calls or emails citizens to demand repayment for penalties, and if any citizen receives a fraudulent call or email message they should call the IRS directly at 800829-1040.

“My office stands ready to assist hard-working Texas consumers. The consumer protection section of our

website contains several resources on how to recognize, prevent and report scams like this. Being informed is the best way to prevent fraud and loss,” added Paxton.

Many may purchase units Texas Land Commissioner George P. Bush on Nov. 28 announced the Federal Emergency Management Agency granted a program under which Hurricane Harvey survivors still residing in temporary housing units may purchase the federally fund-

ed manufactured housing units and travel trailers.

FEMA’s temporary housing assistance is set to expire on Feb. 25, 2019, 18 months after the date of the disaster. Currently, there are 1,582 households in temporary housing units — manufactured housing and travel trailers — administered by the Texas General Land Office.

Counties agreeing to participate in the sales program include Austin, Calhoun,

Galveston, Harris, Jasper, Jefferson, Newton, Orange, Polk, San Jacinto, Tyler and Victoria. However, some cities within those counties have opted out of the program.

FEMA approval of the sales program for the housing units “provides Texas communities with one more tool in our recovery toolbox,” Bush said.

Texas Secretary of State’s Office says Palmview must hold new mayoral election

By Dave Hendricks Palmview must hold a new mayoral election, according to the Texas Secretary of State’s Office.

Questions about the mayoral race surfaced last month, prompting Palmview City Attorney Eric Flores to request a written opinion from the secretary of state.

The answer — a two-page email from Christina Worrell Adkins, legal director of the secretary of state’s Elections Division — arrived Monday morning.

“I’m going to review it thoroughly,” Flores said, adding that he would advise the City Council accordingly.

Serious questions about the mayoral election surfaced during November, just days before the swearing-in ceremony.

Ricardo “Rick” Villarreal — an assistant superintendent at the La Joya Independent School District who served two terms on the City Council — filed for mayor on Aug. 16. Nobody challenged him.

Two seats on the City Council, though, were contested.

The ballot listed Villarreal on a page with candidates

who were declared elected by default. As a result, he didn’t receive a single vote.

“Under Section 2.051 of the Texas Election Code the mayoral candidate race for the City of Palmview was not properly canceled because there were two opposed atlarge races on the ballot and the candidate did not receive the vote/s required in order to be elected,” according to the email from Worrell Adkins.

Villarreal, however, pressed forward with the swearing-in ceremony on Nov. 20 despite the uncertainty.

“Generally, the prior mayor would hold over,” Worrell Adkins wrote. “However, the mayoral candidate was given a certificate of election and was sworn in against our office’s advice. Because the mayoral candidate was given a certificate of election and was sworn in, our office believes that the current mayor sworn in should serve in office until a pending special election is held to fill the vacancy.”

Worrell Adkins advised Palmview to proceed cautiously, warning that actions taken by Villarreal may become vulnerable to legal challenges.

“Additionally, we strongly advise you to exercise caution regarding any official acts made by the defacto mayor,” Worrell Adkins wrote. “We understand that you are in contact with Texas Municipal League and we would suggest continuing to seek their advice on council actions involving the mayor until this is resolved through your special election.”

Mayor Pro Tem Joel Garcia said Palmview would follow the recommendation.

“We will go by whatever the law says,” Garcia said.

“Whatever we need to do to make things right.”

While the city must correct the mistake, Garcia said he doesn’t think Palmview is at fault for the ballot mix-up.

Palmview must hold the new mayoral election within 120 days of Nov. 20, when the City Council canvassed the results.

“I believe in order to keep democracy alive, the recommendations of the Secretary of State should be followed,” City Councilman Anthony Uresti said in a statement.

“The citizens of Palmview deserve the right to vote for a candidate that will represent them.”

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David Gilpin – The man, the coach, the prophet

By Luciano Guerra As the Mission Veterans Patriots football team prepares for their Regional Final playoff game against the San Antonio Wagner Thunderbirds tomorrow morning, some may be surprised by the fact that they have advanced into the fourth round of the UIL state playoffs for the first time in school history. However, there is one person that is not at all surprised by the Patriots’ unprecedented success this season. As a matter of fact, he predicted almost the exact same thing that the Patriots are achieving now and he did it months ago! So who is this modern day Nostradamus of the gridiron? None other than Mission Veterans head football coach and athletic coordinator David Gilpin, that’s who.

The date was August 6, 2018, 25 days prior to the Patriots’ season opener against the Mission Eagles in the Battle of Conway, and Gilpin was sitting at his desk sharing his thoughts about the upcoming football season with yours truly. Approximately 15 minutes into that interview, Gilpin mentioned the fact that he overheard me asking one of his players how far the Patriots had ever advanced into the playoffs.

He then proceeded to not only answer that question for me, but to make the kind of predictions about what he believed his team was about to achieve that I had never heard a coach go on the record with.

“We’ve advanced into the second round of the playoffs four years in a row,” Gilpin said. “That includes a third round appearance two years ago. And our goal is to shat-

ter that this year. People in the Rio Grande Valley don’t talk about what we’re talking about doing. I don’t care what anybody thinks about what I believe we can do this year. I’m talking fifth round this year. I’m talking final four and regional champions.”

As surprised as I was to hear a head football coach utter such a bold prediction about his own team, the kind of prediction that when published had the potential to be used by opposing coaches as bulletin board material, Gilpin then raised the stakes by adding the following, “Only four Valley teams in the past 28 or 29 years have been to the fourth round. So we don’t talk about the fifth round or about being a Regional champion in the Rio Grande Valley. But I believe that we have the kind of team that can accomplish this and I’m not scared of being laughed at for saying that. I believe that we’ll be 14-0 and playing the Region III champions this year. So get on the bandwagon now because if things go right, and we’re able to keep our key pieces on the field, this could be a fun ride.”

So here we were almost a month before the Patriots would be taking to the turf at Tom Landry Hall of Fame Stadium for their season opener against the Mission Eagles, and Gilpin is talking about an undefeated season, district, bi-district, area and regional championships and a state final four appearance.

As crazy as that might have sounded at the time, the fact is that were it not for their 24-12 non-district loss to Mission, the Patriots would now be just one win away from making every single

one of those “crazy” predictions come true.

Now we wind the clock forward to Monday of this week and Gilpin and I are sitting in his office for an interview once again. I begin by reading his own words back to him and I see him smile when I get to his quote about getting on the Patriot bandwagon now. I then proceeded to tell him how surprised I was by the fact that he was willing to go on the record with such bold predictions about his team and I asked him what it was about

Coach David Gilpin

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this team that made him confident enough to be willing to do so.

“First of all I believed in everything I said 100% when I said it and I had no problem putting it on the record,” Gilpin replied. “And everything you’ve said about my quotes being potential bulletin board material is exactly right. I could see others reading my predictions of a 14-0 season and laughing at me and thinking that I’m crazy. That would be completely understandable. As a matter of fact, if it was

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somebody else saying these things, maybe I’m laughing at them. But I knew what we had on this football team. I knew that we had a very high number of very, very good players.”

“We’re not track guys and we’re not powerlifters but what we have is guys that train what we train,” added Gilpin. “And that is explosiveness, burst, acceleration and change of direction. This is what we do in our offseason and throughout our summer conditioning program and as a result when it comes to getting from point A to point B on the football field, we’re quick. But more than anything else, we’ve got a mindset of physicality because we not only talk about being fast, we talk about being physical.”

Gilpin went on to explain how he not only saw this team’s potential for greatness going into this season, but he saw it four years ago when the seniors on this team, including his own son and Patriots’ quarterback, Landry, were freshmen.

“Four years ago when Landry was a freshman he was on the varsity team, but I talked to the other freshmen and I told them that I believed that by the time they were seniors they were going to do something special,” Gilpin said. “Then when the next group of freshmen came in, I told them that their junior year, which is this year, was going to be something special. As high as my expectations were at that time, they’ve been heightened as those players developed, and as I saw what kind of athlete Landry was going to be.”

One of those freshmen Gilpin spoke to four years ago is Erik Espinoza.

Espinoza is now the Patriots starting center. After reading Gilpin’s preseason quotes to him, I asked him what having his coach have so much confidence in him and his teammates has meant to him.

“A lot of people may have thought he was crazy for saying that we’d go 14-0, be in the final four and have five gold footballs, but it helped us to believe in ourselves,” Espinoza said. “Knowing that our head coach had so much confidence in us that he was willing to say those things actually instilled a belief in us that we are champions and that we could do whatever we wanted on the field no matter what.”

Senior middle linebacker Joey Garcia was also part of the freshman team Gilpin spoke to four years ago.

When asked what having a coach that had so much confidence in him and his teammates that he was willing to go on the record with such bold predictions meant to him, Garcia said, “Having him say that we could go to the fifth round feels good. Look where we’re at now. We’ve worked super hard all summer and during the offseason and now we’re here in the fourth round. And even as far back as February, Coach Gilpin would always say that we could go this far and we all believed that it could come true.”

So how did Patriots’ head coach David Gilpin come so close to predicting what his team is in the process of accomplishing this season months, and even years, ago?

I can’t say for sure, but I suspect that along with all the gold balls the Patriots have accumulated over the years, there may just be a crystal one in there somewhere.

December 7, 2018

page 7

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The Legend of Landry Gilpin

By Rick Venecia The streets of Mission, Tx are filled with stories of legends. Young men who put on helmets and shoulder pads and dazzled those watching by doing things thought to be impossible. These athletes are larger than life and get larger as their stories are told through the years. They become what every child throwing a football around in their backyard, parks, and streets want to be.

We all wanted to be Lupe, Nati, Frank, Koy, Jamaar, Earvin.

You can name Mission athletes until you are blue in the face, and every name would be worthy. From leading the nation in passing to being top ranked state receivers to playing Division 1 college football to playing in the NFL, our athletes

have done it all. And thanks to their continued involvement in our city, we are ensured that the tradition will not end any time soon.

Enter Landry Gilpin. A quiet, unassuming young man who has taken the hopes of the entire city and put them squarely on his back. As Coach Gilpin said in a broken voice, “the kid’s special”. He truly is and what he is doing for the Patriots this season is something truly remarkable and brings us all tears of joy. Landry does not do it alone. The entire team is playing at a level that is almost unheard of. They leave everything out on that field, and it does not go unnoticed. This was evident in the sea of blue that filled the seats at the Alamodome. As good as this team is, they only go as far as Landry

takes them. As fans watch him weave through defenses in what seems to be an unrelenting attack, everyone holds their breath then like a rocket he bolts out of the pack and the crowd explodes. He trusts that his teammates are going to be where they need to be, and they are. He leads with his heart and we all follow. This young man leads the nation in total yards.

Not state leader, national leader. The kid that is “too small” is showing the nation what heart and determination truly is. The entire city of Mission and the rest of the Rio Grande Valley are witnessing one of the greatest performances in our history, and we are cherishing every moment.

As the Patriots enter the 4th round of the state playoffs, they are the underdog once again.

And regardless of the outcome, they will play with heart and a grit that is unrivaled. They have to. Their leader will expect nothing less. The Patriots fans and football fans everywhere will sit back and enjoy the ride.

We will cheer when they score, lose our voices from screaming so loud, shed some tears of joy and sadness, and in the end, no one will be prouder than we are. These boys have captured our hearts and we are with them all the way.

The Legend of Landry Gilpin is not over by any means, and no matter how the season ends, it is going to be one of the greatest legends of all time.

For now, we will let him be what he truly is, a great young man who is a high school senior and loves to play football.

Landry Gilpin’s video game numbers earn him a spot in record books

Patriots’ QB leads nation in total yards

By Bryan Ramos No, those aren’t Christmas lights, that’s just Landry Gilpin lighting up another scoreboard.

The Mission Veterans senior quarterback and the Patriots are rolling as winners of 12 straight games and are fresh off advancing to the 4th round of the state playoffs, just the third Valley team to do so since 1990.

Their 62-55 win over Corpus Christi Veterans Memorial in the Alamodome last weekend was a record breaking performance for the Patriots, marking the first time the Patriots have advanced to the 4th round and a number of individual records for the gunslinger.

“It’s amazing just being able to do it,” said Landry Gilpin. “Despite all the things that we did, breaking records, re-writing history,

being able to do it with my dad and all my teammates and all my friends, it’s awesome. The whole environment around practice, the whole environment around this season has been amazing.”

Landry racked up 704 total yards and seven total touchdowns in the Patriots’ third round win over the C.C. Vets Eagles. His 439 passing yards broke a 10-year old UIL Class 5A record, as did his 46 attempts. The Mission Veterans quarterback now leads the entire nation in total yards with 6,391.

Two years ago, Mission Veterans Head Coach David Gilpin told me to watch out for Landry because he was going to be special. Fast-forward to today and Landry Gilpin is one of the best quarterbacks in the nation.

“That kid’s special,” said Coach Gilpin. “That’s one

of the most impressive performances in a third round game, for a ‘Valley weak’ school, that ain’t supposed to be playing with Victoria East, Judson Veterans Memorial, C.C. Vets, we’re not supposed to be able to play with them, but number 12 is a special kid. I’ve been coaching 29 years, he’s one of the top five players, if not higher.”

Landry Gilpin ranks third in the state in passing (4,233 yds, 47 TDs) and 12th in rushing (2,158 yds, 32 TDs) in 2018 and has been drawing statistical comparisons to Oklahoma Sooners quarterback and Heisman front-runner Kyler Murray, who led Allen High School to three straight Texas state championships. Gilpin’s senior numbers top Murray’s senior season stats of 6,213 total yards and 78 total touchdowns.

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While excited to receive the accolades and attention that come with his incredible senior season, Landry Gilpin knows that none of his success would be possible without his teammates.

“I wish they knew how beneficial it is to have a team like I do,” he said. “They allow me to do a lot of things not a lot of quarterbacks get to do, and I appreciate all the eyes on me, but it wouldn’t be possible without my teammates.”

His 84 passing touchdowns are the most of any

public school player in Rio Grande Valley history, surpassing Mission High greats like Koy Detmer and Lupe Rodriguez, two players Coach Gilpin knows very well.

“We talk about Lupe and Koy in reverence, as we should,” Coach Gilpin said.

“Those guys were outstanding quarterbacks from our city. Well, shoot, Landry Gilpin is right there with them.

This playoff run, his stats, what he’s done over his career, I just hope that he’s given the same due respect

as those guys, those guys are hall of famers.”

Landry Gilpin and the Mission Veterans Patriots will have the chance to make more history as they take on San Antonio Wagner in the Regional Championship at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 8 at the Alamodome.

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Mission Veterans set for showdown with Wagner Patriots back in the Alamodome for Regional Final

By Bryan Ramos

The Mission Veterans Patriots knew they were in for a fight heading into the regional semi-finals against Corpus Christi Veterans Memorial, and after four quarters of play inside the Alamodome, the team from the Rio Grande Valley was the last one standing.

The Patriots walked away with a 62-55 win over C.C. Vets to become the first Valley team to win in the Alamodome since Edinburg North in 2012, but that was a first round matchup. Mission Veterans’ win made program history and moved the Patriots on to the Regional Championship, a place they thought they’d be since February.

“It’s amazing, balling with the guys since day one, ever since we were small,” said linebacker Joey Garcia.

“We always talked about this moment, winning in the Alamodome when we were kids and now it came true. We’re all happy, it means so much, giving us one more week, it’s awesome.”

The Patriots third round shootout saw quarterback Landry Gilpin put up 704 total yards with seven touchdown passes. Running back Danny Cantu scored one touchdown on the ground,

while receivers Leo Cantu, Mikey Garcia, John Aguilar and Ralph Ochoa each hauled in touchdown passes, with Aguilar, Garcia and AJ Gonzaque each going for 100+ receiving yards.

Now, Mission Veterans is the last Valley team standing and will play on one more week with the chance to extend their 12-game winning streak.

Landry Gilpin and the Patriots were excited to break the “Alamodome curse” last weekend and are ready to take the Alamodome field once again for their 4th round matchup at 10 a.m. on Saturday.

“It’s awesome being able to come back, having a morning game,” Gilpin said.

“We’re a morning practice team, so we’re used to being up and moving around early.

We put aside the Alamodome curse and we’re good man.

I’m happy we got to show people not to believe in stuff like that. We’re not done yet, we expected to be here. Now it’s time for the next challenge.”

The next challenge for the Mission Veterans Patriots? The San Antonio Wagner Thunderbirds. The Thunderbirds (12-1, 8-0) are coming off a 49-14 win over Flour Bluff in the third round where they ran for 478 total

yards. Wagner’s triple-option offense carries a powerful ground game with two 1,000-plus yard rushers in quarterback Tobias Weaver and running back LJ Butler.

Karlton Black has also run for 909 yards of his own, giving Wagner over 5,000 rushing yards as a team on the year.

Tasked with containing the Thunderbird offense is a Mission Veterans defense that Coach Gilpin feels is peaking at the right time.

The Patriot defense has four defenders ranked inside the top 25 in tackles in 5ADI in Joey Garcia (139), Gus Garza (134), Elias Delgado (114) and Jesse Gonzalez (111), and they’ll be tasked with stopping the run. Last week when the Patriots needed their defense to make a play, linebacker Jazz Vallejo came through with a pick-six and gave his team the space they needed to put the game away. The defense feels they can come up with big plays when needed and they’ll need a few when they face the Thunderbirds on Saturday morning.

“We’re going to try to get another dub,” Garcia said.

“We’re going to have a tough one against San Antonio Wagner, they’re a good ball club, so we got to come out and play hard.”

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He needs to find his forever home so he can be a kitten and run around and play. If you would like to make Alex a part of your family contact the Mission Pawsible Program.

One year old male Shepherd mix.Found on the 800 block of Tom Landry. Available for adoption Stray kennel 2095. For adoption contact Mission Pawsible Program .

Mission Pawsible Program at 956-580-8741, M-F, 8AM-5PM. The City of Mission Animal Shelter is located at 227 Abelino Farias, and is open throughout the week and on Saturdays 9AM to 4PM. The cost to adopt is $50, which includes: Spay/Neuter, Rabies Shot, 1st Vaccine, Microchip and Deworming. To view more animals in the Mission Pawsible Program, visit missiontexas.us.

Sponsored by

Head Coach David Gilpin has been in his team’s ear about five gold balls since day one and he has a team full of believers. Coach Gilpin often says, if they’re not laughing at you, you didn’t set your goals high enough.

“We set our goal for five gold balls, we said we’ll be a Regional Champ,” said Coach Gilpin. “We know

what Wagner has, we know how good they are, we understand all that, but we will be on the field with them Saturday morning and the one thing I promise you we’re going to play them, we may get beat 100-0, but we will play them with the heart of a champion.”

The Mission Veterans Memorial Patriots will have

After four years at the Cameron County jail, Cruz landed a full-time position with the Weslaco Police Department in April 2012. The job paid $18.36 per hour.

He lasted just 37 days.

On May 12, 2012, a state trooper arrested Cruz on suspicion of driving while intoxicated. Weslaco fired him three days later.

Cruz found new a job with Chevron in Louisiana, but the arrest didn’t keep him away from law enforcement for long.

Hidalgo County Court-atLaw Judge Rodolfo “Rudy” Gonzalez dismissed the drunken driving charge “in the interest of justice” in April 2013.

With the arrest behind him, Cruz joined the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office during the final months of Sheriff Lupe Treviño’s administration.

He quickly developed a bad reputation.

Supervisors disciplined Cruz for tardiness, skipping work and falling asleep on the job.

“You were seen sleeping

on duty by other officers and on video, yet denied that you were asleep,” according to records from an Internal Affairs investigation, which concluded Cruz wasn’t honest about what happened.

The Hidalgo County Sheriff's Office fired Cruz in February 2016. It also revoked his commission as a reserve deputy.

After leaving law enforcement, Cruz started a company called J&M Guardians Primary Home Care, according to records filed with the Texas Secretary of State’s Office.

Whether or not Cruz is still involved with the company remains unclear.

J&M Guardians couldn’t be reached for comment at the phone number listed on Texas Health and Human Services Commission records.

The company recently filed paperwork to remove Cruz as the registered agent.

At some point, though, Cruz became involved with eight-liner establishments.

Commonly called game rooms or maquinitas, the underground gambling halls al-

their shot at a 5th gold ball as they are set to take on San Antonio Wagner in the 5ADI Region IV Championship at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 8 at the Alamodome.

For live game updates, follow The Progress Times on Facebook @ProgressTimes.

Sheriff’s Office arrests former police officer accused of running game rooms

By Dave Hendricks

Pet of the Week

Daniel Cantu, Patriots #24, runs in a touch down late in the game to help secure a win over Corpus Christi Veterans Memorial. Final score 62 to 55. Progress Times Photo by Mario Magallon.

Investigators with the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office arrested a former coworker on gambling charges last month.

Deputies booked Pedro Cruz, 31, of Pharr at the Hidalgo County jail — where he once worked as a detention officer — on Nov. 20.

Cruz apparently started running game rooms after the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office fired him in February 2016 for sleeping on duty.

“I know he’s been arrested,” said attorney Emerson Arellano, who represents Cruz. “I don’t have any of the allegations or details.”

Before investigators caught him running game rooms, Cruz had a lackluster career in law enforcement.

Cruz managed a Speedy Stop convenience store before joining the Cameron County Sheriff’s Office in March 2007, according to personnel records. He also accepted a part-time job with the South Padre Island Police Department.

The most recent booking photo of Pedro Cruz. (Photo courtesy of

the Hidalgo County Sheriff's Office)

low patrons to play slot machines and win cash prizes.

“We came across some information that an individual believed to be employed by the Sheriff’s Office was shaking down some of these establishments and offering protection,” said Hidalgo County Sheriff Eddie Guerra.

The Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office investigated the rumors and identified Cruz as the person responsible.

“If I recall, he was asking for $6,000 to $7,000 per month to protect them,” Guerra said.

Investigators also caught Cruz running two game rooms himself, according to court records.

In January, the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office raided a game room on the 1400 block of North Cesar Chavez Road near Alamo.

The property owner said a man named “Pedro,” who identified himself as a sheriff’s deputy, rented the warehouse under another name.

Investigators concluded “Pedro” was actually Pedro Cruz, the former jailer. They asked a judge for permission to search Cruz’s home.

Along with a badge and a Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office identification card, investigators found uniforms from every law enforcement job Cruz had worked, according to an intelligence report prepared for the Texas Public Safety Commission.

They also found $21,800.

Investigators arrested Cruz on fraud and forgery charges.

In May, the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office posted a photo of Cruz on Facebook as part of “Wanted Wednesday.” The post announced that investigators had charged him with impersonating a public servant, a third-degree felony.

See GAME ROOMS Pg. 10

December 7, 2018

obituaries Cobain Aguirre MISSION/Houston – Cobain Kent Aguirre, age 3, passed away on Friday, Nov. 30, 2018, at Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston.

Survivors include his parents, Hazel Marie Salinas and Manuel Aguirre; brother, Jose Aguirre; paternal grandparents, Jose and Ofelia Aguirre; and maternal grandparents, Jose Jr. and Lydia Cano.

A funeral service was held on Dec. 7 at Virgil Wilson Mortuary in Mission.

Burial followed at Lord & I Cemetery in Palmview.

Julio Montenegro MISSION – Julio Cesar Montenegro, 49, passed away on Thursday, Nov. 29, 2018, at Doctor’s Hospital in Edinburg.

Mr. Montenegro was employed by ADT Security Service as a sales consultant.

Survivors include his wife, Irma Ocanas Montenegro; children, Jasmin Ramos, Mayela Montenegro, Brianna Montenegro and Gabriella Montenegro; parents, Salvador and Rebeca Montenegro; siblings, Alfredo Montenegro, Victor Montenegro, Efren Montenegro and Nancy Valenzuela; and one grandchild.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Jose Montenegro.

A funeral mass was held on Dec. 3 at Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Mission. Burial followed at Valley Memorial Gardens Cemetery.

Elida Rodriguez ALTON – Elida Rodriguez, 89, passed away on Monday, Dec. 3, 2018, at her home in Alton.

Mrs. Rodriguez was born in China, Nuevo Leon, Mexico on Jan. 10, 1929.

Survivors include her children, Domingo Rodriguez, Evangelina Rodriguez, Maria Rodriguez, Angel Rodriguez, Bernardino Rodriguez, Maria Rodriguez, Elvia Rodriguez, and siblings and grandchildren.

A funeral service was held on Dec. 6 at Ric Brown Family Funeral Home in Mission. Burial followed at Garden of Angels Cemetery in Abram.

Reymundo Rodriguez MISSION – Reymundo Rodriguez, 96, passed away on Saturday, Dec. 1, 2018, at his home in Mission.

Mr. Rodriguez was born in San Isidro on March 15, 1922.

Survivors include his children, Maria Guadalupe Vega, Reymundo Rodriguez Jr., Eulogio Rodriguez, Maria Micaela Vargas and Maria Marcela Ramirez; and 10 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Acisla O. Rodriguez, and siblings, Jose, Leonel and Ramon Rodriguez and Lucia Garcia.

A funeral mass was held on Dec. 4 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in Mission. Burial followed at Laurel Hill Cemetery in Mission.

Ramona Treviño ALTON – Ramona Adela Treviño, 61, passed away on Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018, in Mission.

Mrs. Treviño was born on Aug. 14, 1957, in Altamira Dr. Coss, Nuevo Leon, Mexico, to Pedro Treviño and Jovita Olivares.

Survivors include her children, Javier De La Fuente, Veronica De La Fuente, Jose De La Fuente and Claritza De La Fuente; siblings, Guadalupe Trevino, Viviana Davila, Irma Alonso, Jose Luis Trevino, Eloisa Davila, Felipe Trevino and Cecilia Garcia; and 12 grandchildren.

A funeral service was held on Dec. 5 at Funeraria Del Angel Funeral Home in Mission. Burial followed at Valley Memorial Gardens.

Notices Jose Garcia LA JOYA – Jose L. Garcia, 64, passed away on Friday, Nov. 30, 2018, at Doctors Hospital in Edinburg.

Ofelia Garcia MISSION – Ofelia Alaniz Garcia, 72, passed away on Friday, Nov. 30, 2018, at Rio Grande Regional Hospital in McAllen.

Maria Jaramillo MISSION – Maria Jaramillo, 71, passed away on Thursday, Nov. 29, 2018, at Comfort House in McAllen.

Francisca Lozano MISSION – Francisca Lozano, 72, passed away on Monday, Dec. 3, 2018, at Mission Regional Medical Center.

Tomasita Maldonado MISSION – Tomasita Maldonado, 79, passed away on Saturday, Dec. 1, 2018, at her home in Mission.

Salvador Peña MISSION – Salvador Alanis Peña, 85, passed away on Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018, at his home in Mission.

Delia Rios MISSION – Delia Rios, 66, passed away on Friday, Nov. 30, 2018, at South Texas Health Systems in Mission.

Maria De Ruiz ALTON – Maria G. De Ruiz, 80, passed away on Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018, at Mission Regional Medical Center.

Today is deadline for juried art, poetry show

PHARR – Today is the deadline for entries for University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, College of Fine Arts, Edinburg, and South Texas Border Chapter, Texas Master Naturalist’s upcoming show.

The co-sponsored event will depict art and poetry in the “Nature in the Valley” show that will highlight works inspired by the Valley’s natural habitat.

Selected works will be announced via e-mail by Dec. 28. Selected works are to be delivered to the venue

on Jan. 18.

Submissions are open to artists and poets over the age of 18 who live or have previously lived in the Rio Grande Valley – including Winter Texans and UTRGV students of any age.The theme of the visual art and poetry submissions must have something to do with the Valley’s nature.

The purpose of the theme is to create awareness of the beauty and conservation of the unique ecosystem and habitat of the Rio Grande

Mission CISD Outdoor Adventures class is underway for the first time this year at Mission High School, Mission Collegiate High School, and Veterans Memorial High School.

Students have been participating in a variety of activities as part of the curriculum. This class was designed to get students motivated about exercise and activity in an untraditional way.

“We offer individual/team sport classes where physical education students focus on seasonal sports and recreational activities,” states Coach Martina Carrillo, PE & Health District Coordinator. “A vision for the District is to now offer 9th-12th grade students taking PE an option to take a variety of other courses which interest them.”

Currently the students are learning how to assemble and breakdown camping tents.

They look forward to future lessons of angler education, hunter education, challenge course, archery, camping, outdoor cooking, orienteering, boater education, survival skills, CPR/first aid, wildlife conservation, paddle sports, backpacking, mountain bike climbing and shooting sports.

The Outdoor Adventures teachers and students at all three high schools were delighted with a donation check of $500 each, which can be used towards their

supplies and equipment. The $1500 donation was provided by Texas State Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation, and the check was presented to the teachers that head this class.

Currently the students are learning how to assemble and break down camping tents. They look forward to future lessons of fishing, canoeing, and outdoor cooking.

In addition to Outdoor Adventures, there also other courses that students can choose from such as Cardio Fitness, Weight Training, and Foundations of Personal Fitness. Taking any of these courses will allow students to obtain one credit towards their physical education component for graduation.

“Providing our students with options for their physical fitness will help them better select classes that are of interest to them,” said Coach Carrillo. “Courses like Outdoor Adventures allows students to get their physical exercise while enjoying the outdoors and experiencing lifetime activities.”

Mission CISD-High School Outdoor Adventures Teachers are Denise Rosales (Collegiate HS), Melissa Reyna (VMHS), Rick Lozano (MHS), Ricardo Martinez (MHS) & Mario Pena (MHS); there are at least 150 students at the HS levels taking the Outdoor Adventure course for Mission CISD.

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

Valley by depicting local habitats, flora or fauna, landscapes and more, artistically or in any poetic style.

The exhibit will be open to the public Feb. 8 through March 15, 2019, in the Charles & Dorothy Clark Gallery on the Edinburg UTRGV Campus.

More information and submission forms are at utrgv.edu/school-of-art/index.htm. Then click on the rolling header of a green background with white egret.

Mission CISD Outdoor Adventures gives students an alternative form of exercise

ChurCh DireCtory BREAD OF LIFE CHURCH 2820 N. Conway Ave. • 581-1411

page 9

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

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

Texas Organ Sharing Alliance (TOSA), the organ procurement organization, announced the appointment of Dolly Elizondo of Mission to its governing board. The organization provides organ donation and recovery services in Central and South Texas.

The appointment was recently approved at a board meeting in San Antonio.

Elizondo works as a real estate broker, developer and commercial consultant in the Rio Grande Valley. A former educator, Elizondo also serves on various community boards. For information on organ donation and community initiatives, or to register online, visit TOSA1.org.

page 10 from pg. 1

HOWLING BASH

the afternoon. But with this, it gave them an opportunity to get with some of their friends and neighbors and play together.”

Overall, the Winter Texans enjoyed the nice weather that day.

“They’ve been very positive, very receptive in regards to everything that we’ve offered,” Garza said.

“So that’s been a plus. We wanted to make sure that this event is satisfying to them, and it is.”

“We want that harmony with our neighbors and the school district,” Garza added.

Last year, Garza met with several Winter Texans who live in nearby parks in order to gauge what they wanted to get out of the Sports & Learning Complex. They brought up several ideas, including incorporating pickleball in their tennis courts.

“We had our meetings with our parks, and they kept on asking if we were going to offer pickleball,” Garza said. “It’s something new.

We have a few people that are probably going to pick it up and have a type of league that they want to have [for pickleball]. And the courts are available, they’re public courts.”

He was unfamiliar with the sport, which combines tennis, badminton and ping pong. After they explained it to Garza, the complex was able to set up the courts for the sport.

“It’s a paddle with a perforated ball, and I had never heard of it,” Garza said. “It’s more of a northern sport, it’s

from pg. 8

December 7, 2018

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com very popular. It’s good for the seniors.”

At the next Howling Bash, with plenty of people signed up already, there may even be a pickleball tournament.

“We want to have different activities,” Garza said.

“Most of these people are already members, so really, there’s no cost to it. It’s just bringing them out here all at one time to play and celebrate their neighbors.”

The water aerobics classes, taught by employees of LJISD, were offered three times throughout the morning. They weren’t as popular this first time, but Nelly Garcia, who works as the Sports & Learning Complex Specialist, said they already have a list of Winter Texans signed up for the next time.

“Golfing is the popular thing,” Garcia said. “And that’s why we wanted to open this side of the complex, so that they are aware that they can use both [the golf course side and the side with tennis courts, natatorium and planetarium].”

The Howling Bash was a completely free event, giving the Winter Texans the opportunity to access everything in the complex, including the golf course, without charge when they registered. Garcia mentioned that the district wanted to make sure visitors knew what was available for them to use.

“They didn’t know if they could come in or not,” Garcia said. “Everyone who came was excited to see that this is what we have available.”

GAME ROOMS

“Why am I not surprised,” a former coworker commented. Another quipped: “I thought I recognize him!

Lol.” The felony charge apparently didn’t deter Cruz.

In October, when investigators raided a game room on the 3100 block of West 5 Mile Line near Mission, they

spotted Cruz driving away.

Two people arrested during the raid identified him as the manager.

Investigators arrested Cruz again on Nov. 20 and slapped him with new gambling charges. He’s scheduled for a court hearing in January.

By Jose De Leon III

sake is finding itself in the midst of a legal battle with the federal government.

Last October, the federal government filed a Declaration of Taking to use emi-

Mission to review options on Madero Bridge Project

By Jose De Leon III After hiring a McAllen-based firm to assist them with Madero Bridge Project last January, the Mission Economic Development Corporation approved a two year extension for their contract last week.

At a special board meeting for the MEDC on Thursday, Nov. 29, the MEDC board approved the extension with Pathfinder Public Affairs, signaling progress on the project 30 years in the making.

“It’s an honor to do this work,” Pathfinder Founder and President Rene A. Ramirez said. “The Madero Bridge Project is undergoing legislative review and we’re working to ensure it is on TxDot’s Border Master Plan list to seek funding for it through TXDot or another agency.”

The Madero Bridge Project calls for a rail bridge that would connect the west side of Mission with Reynosa and be used for commercial vehicles. The project was originally granted a presidential permit in 1978 which states construction must begin by no later than 2021, or the city risks losing federal funding for the project.

“This project has been going on for a while. When you factor in the growth we are experiencing in this part of Texas, there is no doubt the project is needed,” Ramirez said. “By the time it completes, the traffic time will justify the needs for the project.”

According to Mission Mayor Armando “Doc” O’caña, Pathfinder will assist the city in requesting a presidential permit extension of 10 years.

“I think by 2021 we will be in construction, but we are looking at several alternatives for this project,” O’caña said.

As previously reported, the city of Mission is negotiating a deal with the cities of McAllen and Hidalgo to

receive a majority control of the Madero Bridge in exchange for paying most of the construction and other costs of the project.

Though Hidalgo approved the agreement in a previous city council meeting, the city of McAllen has yet to discuss it, O’caña said.

However, the McAllen and Hidalgo bridge board will later this month to discuss a feasibility study of the Madero Bridge Project, which he says should spur more discussions on the project.

“The feasibility study says it is feasible to do this bridge,” O’caña said. “Once the board approves it, the city of Mission will hold a workshop later this month to look at all the consultants we’ve had involved with the project these last two years and ask them what they can do with us in the next three years. From there they will do a five-year action plan.”

The plan, O’caña said, will include getting the presidential permit extension. As part of the extension process, the city will ask for a letter of support from state Gov. Greg Abbott.

As part of the bridge alternatives, O’caña said the board bridge will consider opening the bridge for pedestrian usage and other non-commercial purposes.

“But this is tentative, the board hasn’t met to approve these plans because we’re still waiting on the new agreement from McAllen,” O’caña said.

As the city moves forward with the project, O’caña said that the EDC’s new CEO, Daniel Silva, will work closely with the project.

“In order for economic development in Mission to occur, the bridge is critical to that.” O’caña said. “I want to change the slogan of Mission that says ‘The home of the grapefruit’ to ‘Home of the grapefruit - and a gateway to the world.’”

MCISD amends board policy to make for quicker approvals of interlocal agreements

By Jamie Treviño Prior to the VMHS football team winning the regional round of the 5A Division 1 playoffs in San Antonio, the MCISD board of trustees had to hold a special meeting last Thursday in order to pass two interlocal agreements in regards to their travel.

Because of the last-minute nature of the meeting, the Mission Consolidated School District decided to amend Board Policy CH(LOCAL) in order to expedite the process for similar situations in the future.

“It would allow administration to make budgeted purchases valued at less than $50,000, including purchases made using an interlocal agreement,” Rumalda Ruiz, Assistant Superintendent for Finance, said.

The policy was amended to say the board delegates authority to the superintendent of schools to enter into interlocal cooperation contracts under Chapter 791 of the Texas Government Code.

It is subject to a few restrictions, including that the authority “extends only to those interlocal contracts that have a term of no more than one calendar year, or may be terminated at the district’s convenience at any time with no cost or penalty.”

With these interlocal cooperation contracts that require an expenditure, the authority only extends to budgeted expenses that cost less than $50,000.

The board had to approve an interlocal agreement with the city of San Antonio Police Department and the city of Mission Police Department for security services and escort services for the big game last Saturday. Since the team advanced, the board will not have to meet to approve more of these kinds of services because of the policy amendment.

“This amendment will allow administration to respond to requests more effectively and efficiently as

they arise to secure purchases timely,” Ruiz said. “What has led to this amendment is, as everyone is aware, with the advancements of the Veterans Memorial football team, we have a quick turnaround to sign agreements and what have you.”

“The district received several agreements, but according to the legal team’s interpretation, they should be considered as interlocal agreements, because the other party is also a governmental entity,” Ruiz added. “Under the statute, it says that any interlocal agreements must be authorized by the board.”

Now that the VMHS Patriots are moving on to the regional final round, the superintendent can approve the necessary travel expenditures and interlocal agreements, with notice to the board of trustees, without having to hold a special called meeting.

Board members wanted to be sure that they would still be notified and made aware of all agreements the superintendent approved prior to it happening, and Superintendent Carol Perez assured them that they would be.

“Any time, even in regular contracts that are not interlocal, any time that we are close to the $50,000-mark, I personally will advise the board of those purchases in case there’s any questions or any concerns,” Perez said. “Rest assured that even though you are going to be delegating this authority, we will not be acting alone.

“We are still a total team effort in everything that we do, and we will certainly seek your feedback and advice as we move forward to make sure that we do act appropriately,” Perez added, saying administration will provide the necessary resources and supplies to MCISD students based on the board’s recommendations.

La Lomita Chapel in border wall dispute

With construction of the border wall set to begin in February, the city’s name-

nent domain to take properties owned by the Catholic Diocese of Brownsville in Mission such as the historic La Lomita Chapel and other property located south of the

La Lomita Chapel. Progress Times photo by Jose De Leon III.

levee, to conduct survey and other work for construction of the wall.

This comes after the city of Mission became involved in discussions of the survey last April after the diocese was contacted over a request for a Right of Entry for Survey and Site Assessment from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection on property within the diocese, which encompasses La Lomita Chapel in Mission and nearby private school Juan Diego Academy.

In a statement released by the diocese, Bishop Daniel E. Flores said the diocese is opposed to the government taking immediate possession of the property as church property should not be used for border wall construction.

“Such a structure would limit the freedom of the

church to exercise her mission in the Rio Grande Valley, and would in fact be a sign contrary to the church’s mission,” the church said in a statement. “Thus, in principle, the bishop does not consent to use church property to construct a border wall.”

Mission Mayor Armando “Doc” O’cana confirmed the dispute between the diocese and the federal government, but said that since the city just “rents” the property, they can’t intervene.

“Last year, the city of Mission passed a resolution that we were going to do anything possible to stop the wall,” O’cana said. “We’re trying to get involved the best we can. We need to communicate to the whole world that just like what the American flag is to our country, the La Lomita Chapel is the symbol of Mission. We will do everything within our legal power to protect that symbol.”

O’cana also confirmed that workers were seen surveying land near the Nation-

al Butterfly Center late last month, signaling the start of the Army Corp of Engineers preparing the area for border wall construction.

The workers were spotted following a news release from CBP dated Nov. 14 that said $167 million had been awarded to SLSCO, a Galveston-based company, for construction of 8 miles of a levee wall system in the Rio Grande Valley.

The National Butterfly Center, as well as La Lomita Chapel and the Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park, are environmental and historic attractions in the city of Mission that will be negatively affected by the border wall construction as the wall will either go through them or leave them south of the wall.

The Texas Parks & Wildlife Agency said last month the state park may have to close down if the wall goes through it.

“We plan to keep all of these areas alive as much as we can,” O’cana said.

December 7, 2018 from pg. 5

HIDALGO

payments.

Gonzalez said he asked Rudy Franz to provide receipts, bank records or other documents to verify the payments.

When he didn’t submit any proof of payment, Hidalgo sent National Tow and American Tow Service invoices dated Oct. 25, according to city records. Hidalgo followed up with letters dated Nov. 5, demanding payment within 48 hours.

Rudy Franz disputed the bill and didn’t pay.

Hidalgo responded by dispatching Code Enforcement Officer Jose Carlos Lizcano, who slapped the businesses with “Code Violation” and “Notice of Public Nuisance” stickers. The city also removed National Tow and American Tow Service from the Hidalgo Police Department towing rotation.

page 11

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com Bare-knuckle business disputes aren’t anything new for Rudy Franz.

Along with tow trucks, Rudy Franz and his wife own a bus company that shuttles passengers from the Hidalgo-Reynosa International Bridge to McAllen.

Rudy Franz spent years attempting to stop a rival company, S to N Transport, from serving the bridge.

After a flurry of litigation, which included two lawsuits and three temporary restraining orders, S to N Transport finally started picking up passengers at the bridge.

The City Council responded with heavy-handed regulations that forced S to N Transport customers to walk across International Boulevard. Rudy Franz, however, secured a spot at the bridge.

Concerned about pedestrian safety, Metro McAllen

buses started picking up pedestrians at the bridge. Hidalgo police harassed them, citing the buses at every opportunity.

The city of McAllen, annoyed by the traffic tickets, asked for a temporary restraining order against Hidalgo.

“The only purpose of the ordinance is to protect Councilmember Franz’s business, which has already leased office space near the bridge, at

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ALTON SANTA

to donate new and unopened toys to Lone Star National Bank locations that will then be gifted to children on Christmas Day, Montemayor said.

Among the other attendees was Myra Herrera, who was driving her 5-year-old daughter Leah home until she drove past the bank and saw that photos with Santa

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HIRING Mr. G’s Fireworks

is looking for responsible persons to operate fireworks stand. Must stay on premises & be over 21 years of age.

Call: (956) 399-3469 LEGAL NOTICE

Application has been made with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission for a Beer Retail Dealer’s Off-Premise License and Late Hours Permit by Juan Carlos Hernandez dba Zacatecas Meat Market, to be located at 1716 N. La Homa Rd, Palmview, Hidalgo County, Texas. Officers of said Limited Liability Company are Juan Carlos Hernandez, owner, Dziedzorn Seshie, and Juliberto Martinez, owner.

the expense of S to N’s business,” according to a motion McAllen filed in 2015.

Hidalgo backed down.

Rudy Franz also attracted scrutiny from the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation in 2014, when a disgruntled tow truck driver filed a complaint against National Tow. The driver, Louis Cobb, confessed to towing cars with a suspended license and asked the agency to investigate Rudy Franz. He also accused National Tow of em-

were happening at the bank.

“And I just had to make a U-turn and drive to the bank,” Herrera said, “Photos with Santa is a tradition that I do for all three of my kids.

It’s something fun and relaxing that reminds every one of the joy of the holidays and how much fun I had as a kid doing it.”

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

PUBLIC NOTICE The Mission City Council will hold a Regular Meeting on December 17, 2018 at 5:30 p.m. at the City Hall Council Chambers, 1201 East 8th Street, Mission, Texas in order to consider the following: Rezoning: A 60.850 acre tract of land out of Lot 14-1, 14-2, 15-1, 15-2 and 16-2, West Addition to Sharyland Subdivision, from PUD (AO-P) Permanent Open Space District to PUD (R-1) Single Family Residential District; and Rezoning: A 26.335 acre tract out of land out of Lot 16-1, and Lot 15-1, West Addition to Sharyland Subdivision, from PUD (AO-P) Permanent Open Space District to PUD (R-1) Single Family Residential District If a zoning is amended during the public hearing, it shall be pursuant to the City of Mission’s Amendatory Zone Policy Statement. Anyone interested is invited to attend.

Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

ploying other drivers without commercial licenses.

Cobb eventually mended

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fences with Rudy Franz and the investigation fizzled.

TREE LIGHTING

park.

“This is my first lighting of the park as the mayor of Mission, and I thank God for that, for this great opportunity to be here before you,” O’caña said. “I’m very humbled to do this.”

The mayor, council members and city manager told the people present to have fun and enjoy themselves.

Ortega-Ochoa said she was proud of what Mission did to the park where the event took place.

“It’s just one of the many projects we are going to give our Missionites here,” Ortega-Ochoa said. “Be really excited for what’s to come.”

“Right now during the holiday season, I think we tend to forget to take care of ourselves, and to take care of each other,” Ortega-Ochoa added. “Please always put God and family first. God

bless each and every one of you and God bless Mission.”

Plata said that Jesus was the reason for the season, and wished everyone a happy holiday season. Perez thanked the city departments, including Parks and Recreation, for putting the event together.

“I just want to wish you all joy in your homes, and wish you all health, happiness, peace and prosperity this holiday season,” Perez said.

According to Boys and Girls Club Director Juan Arevalo, who was the Master of Ceremonies for the event, the city raffled 47 bicycles to children at the Holiday Lights & Delights event.

Organized by the Parks & Recreation depatment, entertainment was coordinated with help from the Mission Historical Museum.

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 or pay by phone 585-4893.The deadline to get your classified in is Tuesday at 5 p.m.

PUBLIC NOTICE PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERING SERVICES Hidalgo County Irrigation District No. 6 (“HCID #6”) is seeking to retain a qualified professional engineering firm to provide engineering services on an as-needed basis for a variety of capital improvement projects and HCID #6 programs and projects.

Please submit your sealed proposal of services and a statement of qualifications for the proposed services to the address below: HCID #6 President 3735 N. FM 492 Mission, Texas 78573 Proposals shall be received by HCID #6 no later than 4:00 p.m. on January 14, 2019.

Specifications and proposal package may be obtained at the Hidalgo County Irrigation District No. 6 office during normal business hours at the same address as stated above.

HCID #6 reserves the right to accept and/ or reject any or all proposals and waive all formalities.

Oracion Al Espiritu Santo

Espiritu Santo, tu que me aclaras todo, que iluminas todos los caminos para que yo alcance mi ideal, tu que me das el don divino de perdonar y olvidar el mal que me hacen y que en todos los instantes de mi vida estas conmigo, yo quiero en este corto dialogo agradecerte por todo y confirmar una vez mas que nunca quiero separarme de ti por mayor que sea la ilusion material.

Deseo estar contigo y todos mis seres queridos en la gracia perpetua. Gracias por tu misericordia para conmigo y los mios.

La persona debera rezar esta oracion 3 dias sequidos sin decir el pedido. dentro de tres dias sera alcanzada la gracia por mas deficil que sea. (Publicar en cuanto se recibia la gracia).

Agradece gracia alcanzada.

T.R.

ST. JUDE May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, love and preserved throughout the world now and forever. Sacred Heart of Jesus, pray for us.

St. Jude, worker of miracles, pray for us.

St. Jude helper of the helpless, pray for us.

Say this prayer 9 days, 9 times a day. On the 8th day, your prayer will be answered. It has never been know to fail.

Publication must be promised. My prayers have been answered.

Thank you St. Jude J.A.L

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In order to succeed we must first believe that we can. page 12 December 7, 2018