Friday, December 14, 2018_PT ISSUE

2018 Mission Veterans Memorial Patriots 5A DI - Regional Semifinal Champs

SEE SPECIAL TAB INSIDE - ROAD TO THE ALAMODOME

Vol. 47 - #17

Friday, December 14, 2018

50¢ cents

Patriots represent Mission, Rio Grande Valley

By Bryan Ramos

There’s nothing quite like the hype surrounding high school football in Texas and the city of Mission saw it first hand with the Patriots’ playoff run in 2018 as the last team standing in the Rio Grande Valley.

“I’ll always remember how Coach Gilpin told us at the beginning of the year that if we went on a winning streak that we would light this city on fire,” said senior linebacker Jazz Vallejo.

“And if we went to the third and fourth round, we’d get the whole Valley behind us, and to see that actually un-

fold, it was amazing. That’s something I’ll always remember, looking into the stands and seeing those fans.

You can play in the RGV, but to play for the RGV after everyone is out, that’s a big accomplishment.”

With a Mission team playing December football for the first time since the Eagles’ run to the 5A State Semi-finals in 1990, the city lit up. Places like The Historic Border Theater, Rosy’s Cafe and El Patio Restaurant put signage up on their marquee, decorated their doors and donned blue in support of Mission Veterans.

As the Patriots departed

for San Antonio’s Alamodome for the second time to take on Wagner, it was clear just how much the city had their back. Supporters of all ages lined Patriot Drive, Conway and even the fences of Mims Elementary School to send Mission Veterans off in spectacular fashion.

“I’ve never been part of a send off of that magnitude, watching the entire student body come out here on Patriot Drive to send us off, we went through the backroad and passed by Mims Elementary and watching all those kids and the pure joy in their hearts,” said Mission Veterans Offensive Coor-

Mission resident marks 101 years of life

dinator and QB Coach Jeff Espino. “Even the kids here at Veterans, sometimes high school kids can act too cool, they don’t really want to be out there, but they genuinely seemed to care and you can see the fire in their eyes how they wanted us to be successful. Driving down Conway and seeing all the businesses and community members cheering for us, it was amazing seeing the genuine care the community had.”

From Cameron to Starr County, football programs and schools alike across the RGV were sending well

See FOR THE CITY Pg. 10

By Dave Hendricks

MISSION, TEXAS – In 1917, Woodrow Wilson was the U.S. president, the United States had just entered World War I and Esperanza Barrera Vasquez was born on December 12, marking her grand entrance into the world.

Born 101 years ago, Esperanza, a lifelong resident of Mission, Texas, is one of over 70,000 centenarians living in the United States today. She is one of more than 2,000 in the state.

She was born in Valadeces, Tamaulipas, Mexico to Felipe and Amada Barrera. In January 1918, a few weeks after Esperanza’s birth, the couple made a life-changing decision to cross the Rio Grande River by ferry, or chalan, to start a new life in La Grulla, Texas.

Esperanza is one of seven siblings – four sisters and two brothers, who have since passed on.

In her lifetime, Esperanza has experienced many joyous moments and has suf-

The city of Edinburg demoted police Chief David White last month, blaming him for public safety rankings published by popular websites.

City Manager Juan Guerra demoted White to lieutenant on Nov. 9 — and slashed his salary by nearly $40,000 — after reviewing employee survey results and unscientific public safety rankings.

“He didn’t do anything bad. He didn’t steal. There was no corruption,” Guerra said. “It’s just: I needed a different chief. I need to go a different direction.”

Experts on crime statistics and policing said they considered the justification for the demotion dubious at best.

Phil Ethridge, an associate professor of criminal justice at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, cautioned against comparing cities based on crime statistics.

“I think rankings where

(Photo courtesy of Melissa Vasquez)

fered a multitude of heartaches. One of her happiest times was when she married the love of her life, Jesus Emilio Vasquez, on Dec. 21, 1935 in Lubbock, Texas. After that, they made a home for themselves in Mission where they raised their brood of 13, seven sons and six daughters.

The majority of her time was spent as a stay-at-home mom, making sure her chil-

dren were taken care of.

With such a big family, money was tight, and Esperanza was big on hand me downs for all her kids.

Her children would complain about how she would make them wear secondhand clothes, but as adults they understood she would make do with what they had and provided all of them with a

INSIDE

Palmview and Agua SUD

The city and special utlity district are considering working together after months of discord between the two entities. Dave Hendricks has updates on both Palmview and Agua SUD, inside.

See Pg. 5

See 101 YEARS OF LIFE Pg. 8

2018

VERSA

R

NI

Y

YEARS

www.ptrgv.com

MCISD accepts over $57,000 from city

By Jamie Treviño The city of Mission has contributed a significant amount to MCISD’s subscription to an online learning tool for students.

During this week’s board meeting, Dr. Carol Perez, the Superintendent for the Mission Consolidated Independent School District, announced the city’s contribution to the district’s subscription to myON. The city has given $57,311.32 to MCISD for this service so far. myON is an online literacy platform that gives stu-

dents and teachers access to a digital book library, literacy tools, daily news articles catered toward students, progress monitoring and assessments. It was chosen as part of the MCISD Reads Initiative, which aims to increase reading levels in students attending campuses in the district.

MCISD recognized the city for their contribution during the Superintendent’s report.

This week’s meeting was held at Bryan Elementary School so the board could

See MCISD BOARD Pg. 10

Edinburg demoted police chief

By Melissa Vasquez

Esperanza Vasquez

46 2 197

AN

Progress times Your Hometown Newspaper, Bringing Communities Together.

Catholic Church fights the wall

The Pharr Oratory of St. Philip Neri attempted to stop the federal government from surveying their land this Wednesday in court. They did not succeed. For the latest on this story, read the story by Dave Hendricks.

See Pg. 6

Edinburg police Lt. David White

Edinburg City Manager Juan Guerra

(Courtesy of the city of Edinburg)

(Courtesy of the city of Edinburg)

you put crime data into some kind of formula to come up with some kind of rankings for city safety or livability in an area are very suspect at best,” Ethridge said.

What happened to White is part of a broader shakeup at Edinburg City Hall that started in November 2017, when Mayor Richard Molina and a new majority took control of the City Council.

Engineering Director Ponciano N. Longoria abruptly resigned in January 2018. The city fired Public

Information Director Irma Garza in February. Municipal Court Administrator Maribel Velasquez and Assistant Court Administrator Flor Estela Ramirez retired in March.

“Everybody is walking on eggshells,” said City Councilman Homer Jasso Jr., who isn’t aligned with Molina.

Edinburg went through two city managers before Guerra, who took the job on Oct. 12.

WEATHER

INDEX

4 DAYS FORECAST

See EDINBURG Pg. 10

Entertainment...pg. 2

Dec. 14

H 67 L45 0% Precip.

Dec. 15

H 71 L40 0% Precip.

Dec. 16

H 73 L47 0% Precip.

Obituaries...........pg. 9

Dec. 17

H72 L49 10% Precip.

Classifieds..........pg.11

Lifestyle................pg. 3

page 2

December 14, 2018

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

Spots open for workshop with renowned watercolorist

A few spots have opened up for the “Watercolor A-Z” workshop led by renowned watercolor artist and instructor Sterling Edwards. Hosted by the Hidalgo Watercolor Society (HWS) at the Upper Valley Art League (UVAL) studio in Mission, Edwards will be in town Jan. 21 to 24, 2019.

This is a special opportunity for artists. HWS had to book Edwards two years in advance to get on his calendar for this previously booked-out class. A few students had to cancel over the summer, which opened up the spot.

Classes run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for the four-day workshop, with an hour break for lunch. The cost of the class is $350. Students will receive a

supply list when registering.

Contact Joyce Capen at 231629-2914 to sign up.

The instruction will cover all skill levels and introduce a variety of techniques to the class. Each day begins with technique demonstrations and students will work on their own paintings in the afternoon where Edwards will assist as needed.

Edwards is the author of “Creating Luminous Watercolor Landscapes.” He has created numerous videos, created his own line of multi-media brushes and watercolor palette, been featured in numerous books and magazines and awarded memberships in watercolor societies globally.

Whether it’s called a sketchbook or a journal, or is simply need a place to park drawings and water media works after they’re done, the Upper Valley Art League (UVAL) has the class to solve the problem.

Sign up is underway for a basic pamphlet and sketchbook-making class planned for Saturday, Jan. 19, 2019.

Hidalgo Watercolor Society and UVAL member Paula Ranney will lead the class from 9 a.m. to 12 noon.

Part of the morning will be a workshop in to make two sketchbooks from provided materials. The rest of the time will be for demon-

strations. Sketchbooks and journals can be made using purchased tools and materials, but they can also be made using materials and household tools already on hand or recycled.

The cost for the class will be $10 plus a $10 materials charge. Class is limited to 20 students.

A materials list will be supplied at the time of signup. Interested persons can sign up at the UVAL gallery during regular hours. UVAL is located in the Kika de la Garza Fine Arts Center, 921 E. 12th St., Mission. Call 956-583-2787 for more info.

Sign up begins for UVAL sketchbook class

TSU Mariachi to perform in free concert

McALLEN – Texas State University’s Mariachi Nueva Generacion will perform in a free concert at 4 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 16, at McAllen High School auditorium at 2021 La Vista Ave. This is one of only four stops for the group on their 2018 Texas Holiday Tour.

The performance is open to the general public.

They will perform a repertoire of traditional, contemporary and holiday music. In addition, four recent graduates of McAllen High

– all former members of the McHi Mariachi program – will be participating with the university’s top performing group.

Alex Trevino, McAllen High Mariachi Oro instructor, said, “We are honored and blessed to have had them select McAllen and McAllen ISD as one of the four cities that they’ll be visiting and would like to help make this a successful event for their students, directors and all involved.”

Coming Attractions

December 14 • The McAllen Wind Ensemble presents “How the McAllen Wind Ensemble Stole Christmas – A Very Grinchy Holiday Concert,” at 7:30 p.m. at the McAllen Performing Arts Center. Special guest artist will be the Rio Grande Valley Children’s Chorus, a non-profit chorale group made up of children ages 7 to 16 from across the Rio Grande Valley. The concert will also feature special appearances by Santa Claus and The Grinch. Tickets start at $10 and are available at the McAllen Convention Center Box Office, ticketmaster.com, and at the door. For more information, visit mcallenwindensemble.org or call 682-227-2101.

December 14-16 • The Sharyland Pioneer High School Alpha Theatre presents the high school edition of “Chicago.” The performances will be staged in the school auditorium at 10001 N. Shary Rd. in Mission on Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. on Sunday. General admission is $10 and $5 for seniors and students. Tickets are available at the door.

December 15 • La Joya I.S.D. presents the TMEA All-Region MS Band Concert at 4 p.m. at the Alejandro “Alex” H. Saenz Performing Arts Center on Coyote Drive. Admission is free. Hours are subject to change. For event updates, call 956-323-2898 or visit lajoyaisd.com under the departments/curriculum & instruction/fine arts path.

December 17 • The La Joya I.S.D. JFK Christmas program begins at 6 p.m. at the Alejandro “Alex” H. Saenz Performing Arts Center on Coyote Drive. Admission is free. Hours are subject to change. For event updates, call 956-323-2898 or visit lajoyaisd.com under the departments/curriculum & instruction/ fine arts path.

December 18 • The La Joya High School Fine Arts Winter Concert begins at 7 p.m. at the Alejandro “Alex” H. Saenz Performing Arts Center on Coyote Drive. Admission is free. Hours are subject to change. For event updates, call 956-323-2898 or visit lajoyaisd.com under the departments/curriculum & instruction/fine arts path.

December 19 • The Irene Garcia Middle School Orchestra Winter Concert begins at 6 p.m. at the Alejandro “Alex” H. Saenz Performing Arts Center on Coyote Drive. Admission is free.

Hours are subject to change. For event updates, call 956-3232898 or visit lajoyaisd.com under the departments/curriculum & instruction/fine arts path.

December 20 • Palmview High School with the La Joya I.S.D. will present their Band Cluster Winter Concert at 7 p.m. at the Alejandro “Alex” H. Saenz Performing Arts Center on Coyote Drive.

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

December 23 • The McAllen Society for the Performing Arts (MSPA) 201819 program McAllen Live! presents Cirque Musica Holiday at the McAllen Performing Arts Center. For general information, pricing and special membership features, go to LiveinMcAllenClub.com. For questions, contact the ticket hotline at 888-200-4035, Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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

Alejandro “Alex” H. Saenz Performing Arts Center

Fall 2018 Calendar of Events

ALL EVENTS ARE FREE TO THE PUBLIC December 15 TMEA All-Region MS Band Concert 4:00 PM December 17 JFK Christmas Program 6:00 PM December 18 La Joya HS Fine Arts Winter Concert 7:00 PM December 19 Irene Garcia MS Orchestra Winter Concert 6:00 PM December 20 Palmview HS Band Cluster Winter Concert 7:00 PM

Alejandro “Alex” H. Sáenz Performing Arts Center FOR MORE INFORMATION

(956) 323-2898

604 N. Coyote Drive La Joya, Texas 78560

La Joya High prepares for ‘One of a Kind’ production LA JOYA – La Joya High School student artists are preparing for a first of its kind holiday concert at the Alejandro “Alex” H. Saenz Performing Arts Center on Tuesday, Dec. 18, at 7 p.m.

La Joya High School’s Fine Arts Directors and teachers are always looking for creative ways to collaborate with one another to showcase their students.

They have pulled out all the stops with this holiday spectacular as it features the

school’s choir, orchestra, classical guitar, dance, mariachi, conjunto, theatre, art and band students.

For this one of a kind event, audience members will be treated to a short skit based on “The Grinch,” an art exhibition, a sing-along/ dance-along to “Have a Very Mambo Christmas,” and more. This is a free event, and the general public is invited.

EDINBURG – The Edinburg Dance Theatre (EDT) will offer three matinee performances of the children’s narrated edition of the Christmas classic ballet “The Nutcracker.” This children’s story ballet, composed by Pyotr Ilych Tchaikovsky, is for audiences of all ages.

Performances will be held Dec. 15 at 1:30 and 7:30 p.m. and Dec. 16 at 1:30 p.m. at the Ciro Treviño Performing Arts Center on the Edinburg High School campus, 2600 E. Wisconsin Rd. Over the past 10 years,

EDT has been building and accumulating spectacular costumes, backdrops, and elaborate sets and props for this seasonal production. The dancers have gone through rigorous training for their roles to execute the professional level choreography and acting.

Tickets for all seats are $15 and can be purchased at the Dance theatre of Edinburg, 2750 Hedfelt in Edinburg. Call 956-383-2623 for information.

‘Nutcracker’ performance set for Dec. 15-16

McAllen Ballet to present ‘Christmas Carol’

PHARR – The McAllen Ballet Company presents the holiday performance of “A Christmas Carol – The Musical” on Dec. 15 and 16.

Performances will be staged at 7 p.m. on Saturday and 3 p.m. on Sunday at the Valley View Performing Arts Theater located at 600 S. Jackson St. in Pharr.

Travel with Scrooge through the past, present and future as he finds the true spirit of Christmas. Producing and directing the production, Cuban-born Rolando Pacheco brings 30 years of experience to the performance in his position as artistic director of the McAllen

Ballet Company. He graduated from the Bellas Artes de Havana conservatory and has worked with professional ballet companies around the world.

General admission tickets are $15 per person and can be purchased online at mcallenballet.com. Tickets are also available at the Dance Studio located at 7116 N. 23rd St., Suite 500 during the same hours.

For more information call 956-322-3707 Monday through Friday between 4 and 8 p.m. or email at mcallenballet@gmail.

December 14, 2018

page 3

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

Ornaments become spring gardens

Agape Christian drive benefits Mission Food Pantry

Agape Christian School students recently collected and donated canned goods and other nonperishable items for the Mission Food Pantry. Agape Student Council and Agape cheerleaders, along with Girl Scout Troop #3004, headed up the drive to support the Mission community. For those wishing to donate to the Mission Food Pantry, they have a Blessing Box located on 115 S. Mayberry. It is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to assist families in need. For more information on Agape Christian School, call 956-585-9773.

Enchanted Forest comes complete with snow

McALLEN –Quinta Mazatlán World Birding Center kicks off the holidays with Santa’s Enchanted Forest on Saturday, Dec. 15, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

The McAuliffe Carolers and the Bonham Elementary Choir will perform traditional Christmas classics, and Las Palmas Folklorico will perform traditional Mexican dances to festive music and families can dance in the snow on the lawn and watch a performance by the McAu-

liffe Starlets.

The whole family will be able to meet the tiny forest creatures, take pictures with Santa Claus, kids can take pony rides and participate in face painting, and everyone can take their pick from local food vendors.

All guests will be able to decorate a mesquite cookie ornament and painting canvas bags.

Kids will join in singing “Over the River & Thru the Woods” during our Story-

book in the Woods trail tour and collect stamps in a stamp journal along the trail.

Admission is $5 per child and $3 per adult and free for children under age 2. Tickets are available at ticketmaster.com or at the McAllen Convention Center Box Office, 700 Convention Center Blvd. in McAllen, or at Quinta Mazatlán, 600 Sunset in McAllen.

For more information, call 956-681-3370.

Taking a look at 1969 MAYO Conference

EDINBURG – The Museum of South Texas History will host Carlos Cantu’s presentation of “The Mexican American Youth Organization (MAYO) Conference of December of 1969: The Struggle for Chicana/o Self-Determination in South Texas” on Sunday, Dec. 16, at 2 p.m.

In 1969, conferences organized by Mexican Americans throughout the southwest provided settings for new expressions of ethnic nationalism and laid down plans for Chicana/o Studies in colleges and universities.

While these conferences received scholarly attention among historians, the Mexican American Youth Organization (MAYO) conference

held in December of 1969 at La Lomita Monastery in Mission is mostly unknown.

Cantú will detail the history of the local movement in the Rio Grande Valley and situate the history of the MAYO conference in the context of grassroots and national struggles for Mexican American civil and equal rights. Out of this conference emerged the decision to found La Raza Unida Party, a third political party; Colegio Jacinto Treviño, an independent Chicana/o college; and Amigos Unidos Credit Union, a community-based financial cooperative for migrant families.

Cantú graduated from the University of Houston with a doctorate in U.S. History.

He has presented on the history of Mexican American educational struggles at annual regional and national conferences, including the Texas State Historical Association, the American Historical Association-Pacific Coast Branch and the Alumni of Color Conference at the Harvard Graduate School of Education. His work has been published in South Texas Studies and The Journal of South Texas Studies, and he currently teaches at South Texas College.

This program is included in the fee for regular museum admission. The museum is located at 200 N. Closner Blvd. in Edinburg. Call 956383-6911 for information.

McALLEN – Get crafty and learn how to make all natural Christmas ornaments at Quinta Mazatlan World Birding Center on Thursday, Dec. 20, at 6 p.m. with Raquel Hinojosa.

Hinojosa will help participants create a wildflower seed ornament utilizing papier-mâché to mold and design ornaments with all natural plant and flower seeds suitable for Christmas trees or gifting. After Christmas instead of putting the unique ornaments away, they can be planted to bloom and attract birds and butterflies year round.

The program is included in the $3 admission. Quinta Mazatlán is located 600 Sunset in McAllen. For more information, call 956-6813370.

Sign up kids for toy giveaway

McALLEN – Mayor Jim Darling and the McAllen City Commission have extended an invitation to the public to register children for the city’s annual Christmas for Kids toy give-away.

The annual Christmas for Kids Event will be held on Saturday, Dec. 22, at 8:30 a.m. at McAllen Municipal Park, 1921 N. Bicentennial Blvd., McAllen Parents, who wish to register their children, should stop by the McAllen Police Department at the corner of Pecan and Bicentennial, today, Dec. 14, or next week on Dec. 17 to 19 between the hours of 12 to 6 p.m.

Children must be 12 years of age and under, and parents must bring proof of the child’s age. Also, the child must be present the day of the event to receive the gifts passed out at the event which include a toy, bag of candy, snack and drink.

MHS FFA captures Reserve State Champions

The Mission High School FFA Senior Chapter Conducting (Parliamentary Procedure) team had success at this year’s state contest in both the semi-finals and the State finals in Huntsville at Sam Houston State University. The team won Champions, 1st place, in the semi-finals on Nov. 30 and advanced to the finals on Dec. 1 where they won Reserve State Champions in the State Finals, 2nd place, out of 224 teams competing from across Texas. Team Members are Ariana Pena, president; Jorge Calderon, vice president; Leanna Pecina, secretary; Amelia Perez, treasurer; Francisco Ruiz, reporter; Julian Arrellano, sentinel; and Heylen Carreon and Jazlyn Garza, student advisors. MHS FFA Advisors are Landra Rios, Yadira Zapata, Marcos Villarreal and Benito Garza.

Mission CISD posts holiday schedule

Friday, Dec. 21, will be an early release day for the students and staff of Mission Consolidated Independent School District (CISD).

Mission CISD elementary schools will dismiss students at 11:30 a.m. Junior high school and high school students will dismiss students at 12:30 p.m.

Elementary school employees will not be released until 12:30 p.m. Junior high school, high school, and cen-

tral office employees will be released at 1 p.m.

The early release on Dec. 21 will mark the start of the winter break for the district.

Schools and administrative offices will be closed Dec. 24 through Jan. 4, 2019.

Mission CISD employees return to work for staff development on Monday, Jan. 7, 2019, and students will return to school on Wednesday, Jan. 9, 2019.

EVENTS

CALENDAR

December 15 – The Mission Historical Museum Lecture Series hosts Dr. Servando Z. Hinojosa in a program on “Mexican American Folk Medicine in Local Perspective” at 11 a.m. at 900 Doherty Ave. in Mission. Admission is free to the public.

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

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.)

RANCHES FOR SALE

TORDILLO VEGAS RANCHES SUBDIVISION

1.74-2.02 acre tracts Starting at $79,900 Owner Financing Available

For More Information Call

(956) 383-6295 / 494-6295 GARCO, LTD Garco Mortgage & Servicing, LLC

3910 W. Freddy Gonzalez Dr, Edinburg, Tx 78539 NMLS ID:1266466

www.bicranches.com

page 4

December 14, 2018

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

By Ed Sterling Texas Press Association

STATE CAPITAL HIGHLIGHTS

Texas, nation mourn death of former president

AUSTIN — Gov. Greg Abbott on Dec. 3 proclaimed Dec. 5 as an official day of mourning across the Lone Star State in honor of former President George H.W. Bush, the 41st president of the United States, who died in Houston on Nov. 30.

In the proclamation, Abbott encouraged Texans to “gather, assemble and pay their respects to the memory of George Herbert Walker Bush through ceremonies in homes, businesses, public buildings, schools, places of worship or other appropriate places for public expression of grief and remembrance.”

The proclamation also allowed state employees to attend such observances. State agencies, offices and departments were closed on that day, with general government operations and services maintained by reduced-size work crews.

The former president’s body lay in state in the U.S. Capitol rotunda. Crowds viewed the casket and a 21gun salute was performed.

Official funeral services were conducted at the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., and the body was transported to Bush’s longtime home church, St. Martin’s Episcopal Church in Houston, for funeral services. Crowds lined the railroad tracks as a funeral train carried the former president’s body to College Station and its final resting place at the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library on the Texas A&M University campus.

Pablos resigns from post Secretary of State Rolando Pablos, Texas’ chief elections officer, has resigned from office, effective Dec. 15.

In his Dec. 6 letter of resignation, Pablos wrote to Gov. Abbott: “With the midterm elections successfully behind us and the 86th leg-

islative session around the corner, I believe this would be a good time to begin the process of transitioning out of my position and passing the baton to the next secretary of state. Serving Texans as secretary of state has been the opportunity of a lifetime, but I feel the need at this time to turn my attention to my private practice.”

Abbott said Pablos “has been a dedicated public servant who has done an exceptional job upholding the integrity of our election system. He has strengthened Texas’ standing on the international stage by fostering our cultural and economic ties with countries around the world. The State of Texas is better for his service. I thank Rolando for his commitment to our great state and wish him and his family all the best.”

Before serving as secretary of state, Pablos served as chair of the Texas Racing Commission, as a member of the Public Utility Commission and as honorary consul to Spain. He also was founding chief executive officer of El Paso-based Borderplex Alliance and Uriel Americas, a renewable energy company.

AG joins anti-robocall group Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton on Dec. 6 announced he had joined 40 state attorneys general in an effort to stop or reduce “irritating and potentially harmful robocalls” that telemarketers and political campaigns may use to autodial the telephone numbers of private citizens and deliver recorded messages.

“Unwanted phone calls are both a nuisance and an invasion of privacy, and growing robocall scams could cost Texans anywhere from a few dollars to their life savings. This coalition is

dedicated to protecting citizens from these risks and engaging telecom companies in a nationwide effort to put an end to these intrusive calls,” Paxton said.

Revenue total increases Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar on Dec. 4 said state sales tax revenue totaled $2.998 billion in November, 7.7 percent more than the amount reported for November 2017.

“While slower than the double-digit pace of recent months, state sales tax revenue growth in November was strong,” Hegar said.

“Increased tax collections continue to be led by remittances from oil- and gas-related sectors, but at a slower pace than in recent months.

Growth from retail trade and restaurants, the sectors most dependent on consumer spending, was positive, but comparatively modest.”

The sales tax is the largest source of state funding for the state budget, accounting for 57 percent of all tax collections.

DSHS promotes flu shots The Texas Department of State Health Services, in conjunction with National Influenza Vaccination Week, reminded Texans on Dec. 4 to protect themselves and loved ones by getting immunized.

“Last flu season was severe, and the U.S. saw a record number of flu-related hospitalizations and pediatric deaths,” said Dr. Jennifer Shuford, DSHS infectious disease medical officer. “We have no way of knowing if this flu season will be milder or just as severe as last season. We are recommending all Texans six months of age and older get their flu vaccine as soon as possible.”

Texans may visit texasflu. org or contact a health care provider for more information.

BUY ONE SUBSCRIPTION

GET ONE

50% OFF

Holiday Special is good thru December 21, 2018

reg. $20 per year (in-county)

Fill in form and mail back with a check to: 1217 N Conway, Mission TX 78572

SUBSCRIPTION ORDER FORM Name: Address: Phone:

Start Date: State:

Zip Code:

Email: Yes. I would like to receive newsletter and promotional emails from Progress Times.

No purchase necessary. Must be 18 years of age or older

We now accept debit/ credit card payment over the phone.

I can not by any stretch of the imagination be called a conventional Christian by the standards they use today.

I left conventional religion when they left the Golden Rule and Ten Commandments in the dust. However I would like to issue a challenge to all that share my love for fairness, mercy, compassion and equality.

Stand up beside the Bishop, Priests, Nuns and laypersons from the Brownsville Diocese in their fight to prevent La Lomita Chapel’s desecration by Trump’s wall. The troops are leaving, crossings are down and the wall’s necessity has been proven to be one of Trump’s fantasy excursions into his world of ego and falsehoods. Now

Ned Sheats Mission

STC’s cybersecurity program launched in the Fall of 2017 and is one of just four in Texas bearing the National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Two-Year (CAE2Y) designation – and the only program of its type in South Texas.

Cybersecurity at STC: Educating Law Enforcement’s Hidden Heroes MCALLEN, TEXAS (Dec. 11, 2018) The world’s most effective detectives don’t have prime-time TV shows. They don’t slide stylishly across car hoods or fire off slick one-liners as they casually remove their fashionable shades. But that doesn’t mean they aren’t in style.

Replace the squad car with a souped-up laptop, the clever one-liners with cunning lines of code, and the sunglasses with a sharp, situation-trained eye for danger, and you’re closer to the modern law enforcement professionals that drive the in-demand field of Cybersecurity.

In an increasingly technology-dependent world, cyber attacks have become not just common, but constant. From personal identity fraud, to e-retail theft and even hacking of corporate and government networks, cyber-crime has surged at a rate far faster than the tech and manpower needed to fight it. And Texas is not immune – according to the personal finance website SmartAsset, the Lone Star State ranks 10th, nationally, in prevalence of identity theft.

“It is very often that we hear on the news about cyber attacks, and how these bigname companies are getting their systems compromised,” says Francisco Salinas, chair of the Cybersecurity department at South Texas College.

“Cybersecurity has become more popular over the last couple of years in part because of [these] events.

“Now is the time to earn a degree in Cybersecurity.”

With its new, National Security Agency-certified Cybersecurity Specialist program, South Texas College is helping lead the charge against cybercrime in Texas,

and beyond. STC’s program, launched in the Fall of 2017, is one of just four in Texas bearing the National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Two-Year (CAE2Y) designation – and the only program of its type in South Texas.

The high-tech and handson curriculum provides real world-relevant training in network protection and monitoring, incident response, and other aspects of cyber defense. Originally configured as a “Digital Forensics” career certificate, STC’s Cybersecurity Specialist Associate degree program was born in 2017, out of the NSA/Homeland Security designation as well as critical workforce demand for college-educated Cybersecurity professionals.

“It is an honor to be one of the few in Texas to offer our community an opportunity to earn a formal education in cybersecurity,” says Salinas.

“We take pride in utilizing state-of-the-art technologies to teach our students skill sets that are very relevant in the IT industry.”

With the start of the holiday retail season comes an increased focus on cyber crimes, such as identity theft and credit card fraud.

As hackers – and hacking tools – become more sophisticated, Cybersecurity professionals are commanding more demand than ever, saving businesses billions of dollars, while helping keep the public safe from data leaks, online retail fraud, and more. They’re accomplishing this by designing smarter and more secure systems, and improving their capacity to identify and battle imminent threats.

According to Salinas, South Texas College’s pro-

gram is geared toward preparing future professionals for a wide array of in-demand Cybersecurity positions, from forensic analysts, to engineers, testers, data professionals, and more. “There are many job opportunities in this field. I truly believe that a career in cybersecurity is very rewarding.”

Cybersecurity students at South Texas College and beyond tend to share core attributes, like tech-savvy, an eye for detail, and an interest in justice. But the field is far from a clique. Rather, it attracts an independent and diverse array of personalities, with many prospects finding their Cybersecurity calling later in life.

“We have many veterans that after serving this great country, they come back and want to get an education in cybersecurity,” says Salinas.

“We have students that are fresh out of high school and learned about cybersecurity from one of their teachers or counselors.

“We have a little bit of everything.”

Graduates of the South Texas College Cybersecurity Specialist program are entering a literal world of opportunity, with demand surfacing in virtually every part of the globe. Locally, Cyberseek.org estimates that there are 20,000 vacant cybersecurity positions in Texas alone, with more than 300,000 available nationally.

As long as technology keeps advancing, and the world keeps turning, it’s hard to imagine Cybersecurity going out of style.

To learn more about South Texas College’s NSA-certified Cybersecurity Specialist program, visit SouthTexasCollege.edu/Cybersecurity.

Progress www.ptrgv.com

Your Hometown Newspaper, Bringing Communities Together.

956.585.4893 www.ptrgv.com

if you can’t bring yourself to support the Chapel see if you can find it in your heart to support the National Butterfly Center. It’s the same problem brought about by the same person.

times

MEMBER 2018

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

Copyright ©2018 Savy Publishing LLC.

No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without written consent of the publisher. All rights reserved.

LETTER GUIDELINES

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

December 14, 2018

Palmview and Agua SUD may start working together after months of tension

By Dave Hendricks After months of acrimony, Palmview and the Agua Special Utility District may finally bury the hatchet.

Palmview Mayor Pro Tem Joel Garcia and utility board Director Esequiel “Zeke” Ortiz Jr., who represents Palmview residents, met Tuesday morning for breakfast.

“The line of communication is open,” Garcia said.

“So we’re trying to work things out for the best of the community.”

While they both serve Palmview residents, the City Council and the utility district board spent the past year fighting.

The City Council, which wants to spur commercial development on the Expressway 83 frontage road, started building a sewer system without permission from the utility district.

When the utility district complained about the project, Palmview filed a lawsuit.

State District Judge Letty Lopez signed a temporary injunction against Palmview, which blasted the city for acting “utterly without lawful authority” and flagrantly disregarding both the Texas Water Code and utility district regulations.

Palmview asked the 13th Court of Appeals to review the ruling.

The utility district also petitioned the Texas Public Utility Commission for a cease-and-desist order.

Palmview fired back, accusing the utility district of failing to provide the city with basic services.

“Because of the lack of any wastewater collection or treatment system, residents are subjected to higher than average instances of water- and air-borne diseases such as Campylobacteriosis, Shigellosis, and E. Coli bacteria,” according to a motion Palmview filed with the public utility commission.

“The state has documented instances of these diseases, especially after flood waters affected thousands of septic tanks in homes and businesses.”

The city and the utility district also clashed over the Palmview sewer project.

Contractors hired by the utility district spent the past year installing sewer pipes underneath city streets.

Workers hired by the city followed behind them, repaving each road.

When streets weren’t paved within a reasonable period of time, the city blamed the utility district for

stalling.

Another potential dispute surfaced during the past few weeks.

The city pays the utility district to bill Palmview residents for trash collection.

Under the agreement, the utility district adds trash fees to monthly water bills. Customers who don’t pay risk disconnection.

Tension with the city prompted the utility district to consider canceling the agreement, which would leave the City Council in the lurch.

Ortiz, who represents Palmview on the seven-member utility board, met with Garcia on Tuesday morning to discuss the matter. They agreed to work together on the trash bill transition.

Perhaps more significantly, though, they discussed working together to resolve the lawsuit and the administrative proceeding before the public utility commission.

The utility district board apparently discussed the matter Tuesday night in executive session.

“It’s good,” Ortiz said.

“I think it was a good first step.”

Agua SUD gifts $35,200 in Christmas bonuses to employees

By Jose De Leon III Two high-profile exits at the Agua Special Utility District helped contribute to providing their 70 full time employees with a $500 onetime supplemental pay Tuesday.

At their latest board meeting, the Agua SUD directors unanimously approved the Christmas bonus where their full time employees would receive $500 and their one part-time employee would receive $250.

Agua General Manager Jose E. “Eddie” Saenz noted at the board meeting that this supplemental pay was higher than last year’s which saw their full time employees receive $400 for Christmas.

“This is something we always look at the end of the year and talking to our finance department to go over our budget to see if there’s anything available,” Saenz said at the meeting. “We looked to see if we saved money and there were some open salaries that weren’t fulfilled. So there was a budget available for this pay for our employees. They deserve it.”

The open salaries Saenz

page 5

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

was referring to were the unfulfilled positions in the utility district, Saenz explained.

When Agua approved their $30.6 million budget last December, they budgeted to pay for 77 full time employees.

However, the district was able to afford an increase in the Christmas bonuses since the district had 70 full time employees by the end of the year, Saenz said.

As previously reported last October and November, former Billing Manager Rodolfo “Rudy” Flores III and Finance Director Dagoberto Soto Jr. resigned from the district to work for the cities of Palmview and Edinburg, respectively.

Other vacancies in the district include two meter reader positions, though Saenz said he doubted the positions would need to be filled due to the district replacing their current water meters with smart meters that can track water usage more accurately, Saenz said.

With those vacancies, the district was able to afford the increase in the supplemental pay, Saenz said. He added that the pay marked the end of a very busy year for the utility district.

“2018 was a transitional year for us with me coming on board as general manager and all these changes in the board and with employees,” Saenz said after the meeting.

“But we’ve had a successful year, we really weren’t affected by these exits and we kept trudging on.”

At that same meeting, the utility district’s financial department was recognized for the third year in a row by the Government Finance Officers Association with a certificate of achievement for excellence in financial reporting for Agua SUD’s comprehensive annual finance report for the 2017 fiscal year.

Saenz praised the finance department, and Soto Jr. for his efforts in getting the budget off the ground before his resignation. He noted that so far the district has used up 80 percent of the $30.6 million 2018 budget.

“We should recognize him, he’s gone off to a bigger responsibility representing the city of Edinburg and wish him well,” Saenz said of Soto Jr. “He laid down the foundation for what we’re doing.”

Palmview City Council may meet Friday to call new mayoral election

By Dave Hendricks Palmview may hold a new mayoral election next month.

The Palmview City Council plans to meet Friday to call the special election — and fix a procedural error that left Mayor Ricardo “Rick” Villarreal in legal limbo.

“I’d rather there wasn’t an election,” said City Councilman Javier Ramirez. “But it is what it is.”

Villarreal didn’t draw an opponent in November, but four people filed for two seats on the City Council.

The ballot listed Villarreal with candidates who won by default. As a result, he didn’t receive a single vote and wasn’t properly elected.

“I firmly believe that the ball was dropped somewhere between the city and the elections department,” Ramirez said, referring to the Hidalgo County Elections Department, which the city hired to manage the election. “We pay the elections department to run our elections. They’re the experts.”

After reviewing what happened, the Texas Secretary of State’s Office advised Palmview to hold a new mayoral election.

“Generally, the prior mayor would hold over. Howev-

er, the mayoral candidate was given a certificate of election and was sworn in against our office’s advice,” according to an email from Christina Worrell Adkins, legal director of the secretary of state’s elections division, to Palmview City Attorney Eric Flores on Dec. 3. “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.”

While technically the mayor, Villarreal remains in legal limbo. Any action he takes as mayor could be voided by a court.

“Additionally, we strongly advise you to exercise caution regarding any official acts made by the de facto mayor. 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,” according to the email. “Regardless of what course of action you pursue to remedy the situation, there is a question as to the validity of your de facto mayor’s ability to currently

occupy the office.”

Palmview posted the agenda Tuesday, scheduling the City Council meeting for 6 p.m. Friday.

The agenda includes: “Discussion and Possible Action relating to an ordinance calling a Special Election in the City of Palmview on January 29, 2019.”

If the City Council calls the special election for Jan. 29, the filing period for candidates would start Friday and end Dec. 20, Flores said.

Palmview couldn’t provide a copy of the special election schedule, which would list key dates and important deadlines, on Tuesday afternoon.

Flores said any eligible candidate would be able to challenge Villarreal during the special election.

“If it comes down to a special election, well, you know, then I guess that’s what’s going to happen,” Ramirez said, adding later: “My question to those individuals is: Why didn’t you run the first time?”

Palmview must follow the law, Villarreal said, adding that he plans to run again regardless of who challenges him.

Palmhurst holding Christmas celebration

By Jose De Leon III After hosting a tree lighting ceremony for their Christmas tree last weekend, the city of Palmhurst will continue with their Christmas celebration this weekend.

The city will be hosting “Christmas at the Park” Saturday beginning at 5:30 p.m. at Shary Municipal Park.

Located at 4915 N. Shary Rd., the park will have musical performances from the local Crescendo Music Institute followed by a movie screening of the holiday classics “Frosty the Snowman”

and “Elf.” The highlight of the event is their 30-foot-tall Christmas tree, which the community is invited to enjoy a second time for those who missed out on the tree lighting.

“Christmas in the Park” began last year when the city hosted the Christmas celebration to showcase the renovations at Shary Municipal Park.

Last year, the city widened the entrance and driveway of the park and added a parking lot east of the city’s iconic Shary Memorial Chapel. Future plans for

the park include additional parking, a gazebo and hiking trail.

“We want this to be our annual event and next year, screen movies every weekend in December instead of once a month,” City Mayor Ramiro J. Rodriguez said last year. “It’s a small, quaint event for a city of 2,700 residents but in the future, we hope to make this event big enough to compete with the tree lighting ceremonies in Mission and McAllen.”

The “Christmas in the Park” celebration will run from 5:30 p.m. through 10 p.m. tomorrow.

File photo from the 2017 “Christmas in the Park” event with Palmhurst city leaders. Progress Times photo by Jose De Leon III.

page 6

December 14, 2018

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

Judge says Catholic Church must allow access to Pharr Oratory property for border wall survey

By Dave Hendricks An attempt by the Catholic Church to fight the border wall flopped Wednesday in federal court.

During the past few months, more than 100 property owners in Hidalgo County allowed the federal government to survey their land for the border wall.

The Pharr Oratory of St. Philip Neri — a congregation of Catholic priests that owns 26 acres near the International Boundary and Water Commission levee — refused to cooperate. Allowing surveyors access could “impede or interrupt the Freedom of Religion for the priests and seminarian living on the property,” according to a re-

sponse filed by attorney David C. Garza of Brownsville, who represents them.

When attempts to reach an agreement failed, the federal government filed a lawsuit.

“I can’t see that it is a substantial burden at all,” said U.S. District Judge Randy Crane, who heard the case Wednesday afternoon. “It seems, at this point, a rather trivial intrusion.”

Crane ordered the oratory to allow surveyors temporary access to the property.

Attorneys for the government filed the lawsuit in September.

“The public purpose for which said property is taken is to conduct surveying, testing and other investigatory

work needed to plan the proposed construction of roads, fencing, vehicle barriers, security lighting, cameras, sensors, and related structures designed to help secure the United States/Mexico border within the State of Texas,” according to the lawsuit.

The oratory responded in October with more than 20 objections, which included First Amendment concerns.

“In connection with this, four persons live on the property, three Roman Catholic priests and a seminarian.

There is a chapel where mass and other catholic religious services are regularly conducted. There is a library that is used by the priests and seminarian that live on the 26 acres and other per-

sons all requiring limitations on the request for temporary possession and the Plaintiff’s activities to take place there,” according to the response filed by the oratory.

“Other activities that take place there are use of the chapel for retreats and other events throughout the entire property. Also, there are different Catholic churches in the area that make use of the chapel and additional masses are conducted there in addition to the masses conducted on Sundays.”

Just days after the oratory responded to the lawsuit, the Catholic Diocese of Brownsville released a statement about the dispute between the church and the government over surveying.

“While the bishop has the greatest respect for the responsibilities of the men and women involved in border security, in his judgment church property should not be used for the purposes of building a border wall,” according to the statement.

“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.”

On Wednesday, though, Garza, the attorney who represents the oratory, didn’t address any of the 20 objections or the church’s stance on the border wall.

Garza questioned why surveyors wanted access to

the oratory property, which is located north of the levee, when the border wall would be built south of the levee.

“I’m not sure why my client, Pharr Oratory, has been singled out,” Garza said.

Crane took a dim view of that argument.

“I don’t think it’s a valid objection to say ‘Why us?

Go somewhere else,’” Crane said, adding that Garza appeared to be making a flurry of objections and hoping that something would stick.

Crane directed Garza and attorneys for the government to negotiate reasonable access for surveyors and submit an agreed order within a week.

Former member of the Senior Executive Service, appointed by 41, speaks on the president’s legacy in the RGV

Hollis Rutledge reflects on late President George H. W. Bush

By Jamie Treviño

One week after President George H. W. Bush was laid to rest, Hollis Rutledge, a former member of the Senior Executive Service, remembered the service and patriotism of the man who appointed him.

Rutledge, a Mission resident and graduate of Mission High School, currently runs Rutledge & Associates, Inc.,

an economic and community development consulting firm that helps municipal and county governments, economic development corporations, drainage districts, school districts and organizations in the private sector, research, write and collect grant opportunities at the federal and state level, as well as through foundations.

Before that, Rutledge spent several years working

on campaigns, and was appointed as a member of the Senior Executive Service under President Ronald Reagan for five years with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, and President George H. W. Bush throughout his term as part of the United States General Services Administration.

“In a nutshell, the agency is in the business and procurement arm of the U.S.

(from left) President George H. W. Bush, Hollis Rutledge, President George W. Bush and Governor Jeb Bush at the Prairie Chapel Ranch in Crawford, TX during a gathering of the Republican National Committee in April 2008.

Photo courtesy of Hollis Rutledge.

government,” Rutledge said about his position in the U.S. GSA. “It was created to try and consolidate purchasing power for all the rest of the agencies to get more bang for our tax dollar.”

He was nominated by a sitting senator before the appointment can take place.

“I did that until January of 1993, when Bill Clinton was sworn in,” Rutledge said.

“When you’re a presidential appointee, you’re not in civil service, you’re not protected by civil service at all.”

According to Rutledge, there are approximately 3,000 appointments a president makes globally, including ambassadors, the cabinet, members of the immediate staff at the White House, and those appointed in federal agencies.

“You serve at the pleasure of the president,” Rutledge said. “So when the president leaves, you leave, it’s not a career.”

During his time as a presidential appointee, Rutledge was able to take his experience in city planning, architecture, business and government at the local and state levels and learn even more at the federal level.

“It was very revealing,” Rutledge said. “You learn what you learn through actual experience. I must admit, that coming from Mission, Texas, and going all the way to the White House and serving under two separate presidents, was a great experience in itself.”

While working with the 41st President, he also became friends with him and his sons, including President George W. Bush. Rutledge was able to witness the funeral for Bush, Sr. in Houston briefly before attending the state funeral.

“I have a lot of fond memories [of President George H. W. Bush],” Rutledge said. “He actually gave me a break in life, one of those opportunities that come once in a lifetime. I’m eternally grateful.”

The true legacy of Bush Sr. in the Rio Grande Valley is, Rutledge said, his extensive work on the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). While the final agreement was signed

by President Bill Clinton, the framework of the treaty was created by Bush, Sr. “Regionally, he was the actual architect of what we

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 Join us for communion the First Sunday of every month.

Dinner with Friends every Friday @ 5:30pm

Everyone is Welcome!

www.missionfumc.com

President George H. W. Bush with Hollis Rutledge.

Photo courtesy of Hollis Rutledge.

Thank you for giving us the opportunity to serve you.

No Deposit Required!

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

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

www.arkstorage.net

know today as the North American Free Trade Agreement, which has recently been renegotiated by President Trump,” Rutledge said.

“It changed the entire landscape of the Rio Grande Valley and the country.”

South Texas, prior to NAFTA in the 1990’s, was primarily considered an agricultural community. When the treaty was initiated, the economy in the RGV was diversified. Manufacturing, imports and exports of goods and services to and from Central American and Canada were expanded thanks to the agreement.

“It transformed the economy here forever,” Rutledge said. “I think he has not been given as much credit as it should be, because he literally affected our livelihood, our life, our style and our quality of life economically in this region.”

President George H. W. Bush served in several facets of public office during his career, making him more than qualified and fit for his term as Commander in Chief.

“He was probably one of the best, most experienced public servants that was prepared for the presidency,” Rutledge said. “Having been in the United Nations as an ambassador, a congressman from Houston twice, a director of the CIA [Central Intelligence Agency], the United States Ambassador to China and a very loyal Vice President for Ronald Reagan for eight years - that’s tremendous experience. Keep in mind, he was also in the oil and gas business.”

Rutledge, who was able to meet with the presidents multiple times over the years, fondly remembers the decorum and honor that Bush Sr. in particular held when in office.

“Having known him, he was very humble,” Rutledge said. “He respected others’ opinions, in spite of the fact that they may be opposite of his.”

“He was very patriotic, having been a veteran of World War II,” Rutledge added. “He understood the difference between politics and governance. He was a good statesman, and he knew how to form his government in the interest of all Americans.”

December 14, 2018

page 7

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

Alton parade and festival

A crowd watches the Alton Christmas Parade outside Alton City Hall Saturday, Dec. 8, 2018. Progress Times photo by Jose De Leon III.

By Jose De Leon III Cold temperatures and the threat of rain didn’t stop a crowd of Alton residents from showing up for the 13th annual Alton Christmas Parade Saturday, Dec. 8.

A crowd of over 100 people lined up along West Main Avenue and South Conway Street as they watched the parade, which started at Cantu Elementary School and ended at Alton City Hall.

The parade, which was set to start at 11 a.m., was delayed by half an hour due to the rain. Among the attendees was Belinda Gutierrez who arrived with her sister to see their respective daughters in the parade.

Their daughters were in floats dedicated to the Alton Memorial Junior High School cheerleading squad and the robotics team at Mission Collegiate High School. A total of 40 floats and vehicles par-

ticipated in the parade, dedicated to businesses, sponsors, city officials and schools in the area.

Gutierrez donned two layers of clothing and a jacket to protect her from the cold as she and her sister huddled under an umbrella to shield them from the intermittent drizzle, whose raindrops were worsened by the cold weather.

“We’re out here no matter what to see our community,”

Gutierrez said of the crowd.

“We’re here rain or shine or freezing to see this parade.”

The parade was followed by a Christmas Festival at the Alton Recreation Center later that evening. Hosted by the city of Alton, the community was invited to attend a Christmas celebration with performances from the South Texas College Jaguar Cheerleaders and appearances by Sparky, the Alton Fire Department mascot, and Santa Clause.

Samuel Mercado, the city’s recreation director, said the festival is meant as an informal and relaxed way to continue the Christmas festivities following the parade.

The festival included food vendors and the opportunity to win one of 12 bicycles and four gym memberships to Tru-Fit that were being raffled off at the event.

“We want to make sure people experience a good time where they can come

out here and relax and visit with some of the officials here tonight and their neighbors,” Mercado said. “It’s a fun crowd.”

Mercado also noted that despite the threat of rain earlier that day, the parade was still a success.

“The rain did not scare us,” Mercado said. “We had a fun Christmas parade with lots of people participating and everything turned out well.”

people, analyzes the growth of local educational entities.

During this week’s special called board meeting, LJISD announced their current findings of the Cradle-to-Career educational pathways that have been utilized in the school campuses. The findings included improved percentages in benchmarks of enrollment, attendance, reading, math, high school graduation rates, dual-college credit and college-ready graduates.

“We are also graded on the number of certificates that our students earn,” Benavides said. “In 2016-2017,

we had 1,419 certificates, and this past year we had 1,622 certificates that were earned by our students.”

Benavides said that because Senate Bill 1566 states that a large portion of the agenda be about instruction, she thought it would be good to share the growth that has occurred at LJISD. “We would like as a district to get a distinction in college-readiness,” Benavides said. “That is something that we’re working diligently toward.”

Board member Espie Ochoa praised the data provided, saying the community

needs to know that LJISD is improving academically.

“Everybody plays a role in our students having academic success,” Ochoa said.

“And I’m seeing here that for La Joya ISD, we are improving in our career and educational pathway.”

Board President Armin Garza noted that on average, the district increased by an average of 4 percent in the given benchmarks. He thanked the staff, administration and the teachers in the district for working together toward growth.

During the board meeting, La Joya ISD approved an interlocal cooperation agreement between the district and the city of Peñitas for the use of several school facilities.

“This is for the Peñitas Youth and Athletic Services program,” Benavides said.

“In the past, they’ve used campuses like Corina Peña Elementary and J.F.K. [John F. Kennedy Elementary

School], and they’re requesting that they expand to use the science fields at Clinton and De Zavala [Elementary Schools] and our sports complex for the students that are part of the Peñitas Youth Program.”

Benavides said that any time LJISD children can benefit, the district likes to enter into those agreements so they can be well-rounded and have activities to participate in after school and on weekends.

LJISD accepted an offer from the Texas Department of Transportation at the tune of $49,219 that is for a portion of district property that the department needs to expand Liberty Road.

The district also went over the plans for renovations to Jimmy Carter Early College High School, saying that there were improvements and fixtures that need to be updated and maintained in the school, which was recently named a National

Blue Ribbon School by the United States Department of Education.

The campus, originally built in 1977, was renovated in 2002 and 2003. According to Benavides, the post tension cables in the columns of the school were not evaluated the way they should have been, and have since deteriorated. Currently, work is being conducted to renovate the campus.

Two items were postponed for a later meeting under business and finance both involving an application of payment request for consultant services fees. These fees involved overseeing the operations and management of the LJISD Wastewater Treatment Facilities.

The items were postponed by Espie Ochoa, who said she had a few questions on the items and would like them to be postponed so they could be answered. The board voted to postpone the requests for now.

La Joya ISD reports on Cradle-to-Career

By Jamie Treviño

The district’s implementation of career and college-readiness programs are aiming to foster a successful educational environment for students.

Superintendent Alda Benavides spoke about how the La Joya Independent School District, along with other school districts in the Valley, are part of RGV FOCUS, a collective impact initiative in collaboration with the Educate Texas and Communities Foundation of Texas.

RGV FOCUS, made up of superintendents and business

The La Joya ISD school board of trustees Top Row: (from left) President Armin Garza, Secretary Alex Cantu, member Oscar Salinas. Bottom Row: (from left) Members Nereyda Cantu and Espie Ochoa, Vice President Claudia Ochoa and member Mary Hernandez. Photo courtesy of LJISD Public Relations & Communications.

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

page 8

December 14, 2018

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

Tailgate party unites Mission community

By Jose De Leon III As the Mission Veterans Patriots made program history Saturday when they battled the San Antonio Wagner Thunderbirds in the Alamodome, their fans back home supported them.

Saturday saw the Patriots conclude their season with a 12-2 record as District, Bi-district, Area and Regional Semi-final Champions as they lost to the Wagner Thunderbirds with a score of 54-21. Approximately 220 miles away, more than 100 of their supporters watched the game at a tailgate party hosted by Brick Fire Pizza, a sponsor of the Mission CISD athletic department.

The event brought the community together as the crowd, most of them dressed in blue, cheered the team on.

Though the Patriots lost the game, Rachel Guerra-co-manager of Brick Firesaid the strong attendance for the party was a sign of the community support the

Patriots have been receiving.

“Though they couldn’t be at the game in person, that didn’t stop the crowd from supporting the team,” Guerra said amidst cheers from the crowd watching the game.

“Even though the boys can’t see this crowd, they’ll know people are here for them no matter what.”

Guerra estimated that 120 people showed up for the viewing party, adding that the restaurant opened at 9 a.m. but a crowd of eager fans had already formed outside the pizzeria before the opening.

Jackie Obregon, a junior at Mission Collegiate High School, was among the many attending the tailgate party.

Though she’s not from Mission Veterans High School, Obregon said she felt a need to support the team.

“We’re not in the same school but we’re from the same city, so they’re our neighbors and neighbors always support each other.”

Obregon said.

Despite the loss for the team, Obregon said she was glad to have watched the game with a large crowd as they saw the Patriots end their season.

“We knew that they’d put up a good fight no matter what, and we wanted to see that,” Obregon said.

Andy Kaufman, who arrived to the party with his wife and friends, agreed with Obregon that the Patriots’ football season was worth celebrating even with the loss.

He noted that the Wagner Thunderbirds had a similar season to the Patriots where they both lost their season opening games but then won every single game afterward.

“It’s exciting, never have I seen a local school go this far in the playoffs,” Kauffman said. “Our team put up a respectable showing against a highly competitive team.

They put up a good fight and played as well as they could.

That’s worth celebrating.”

which is earmarked for development projects.

Under the proposal, the City Commission would place a proposition on the May ballot to dissolve the Sullivan City EDC and create a new economic development entity called the Sullivan City Municipal Development District.

The half-cent sales tax would shift from the old Sullivan City EDC to the new Sullivan City MDD. Under state law, municipal development districts enjoy more flexibility and fewer reporting requirements than economic development

corporations.

The City Commission created the Sullivan City EDC in March 2008, according to records filed with the Texas Secretary of State’s Office.

Members of the initial board included then-Mayor Rosendo “Cheno” Benavides and Oscar “Coach” Salinas, who now serves on the La Joya school board.

The Sullivan City EDC, though, quickly started collecting dust. It never filed a public information report with the state, which triggered a tax forfeiture in May 2010.

A crowd stands outside Brick Fire pizzeria in Mission following a tailgate party for Mission Veterans High School Patriots Football Team as they faced San Antonio Wagner Saturday, Dec. 8, 2018. Progress Times photo by Jose De Leon .

Sullivan City weighs switch from economic development corporation to municipal development district

By Dave Hendricks Sullivan City may replace the moribund Sullivan City Economic Development Corp. with a municipal development district.

The City Commission discussed the proposal with Ramon Segovia — a consultant who previously served as the Palmview city manager — during a workshop on Dec. 6.

“We’re pushing to get it done,” said Mayor Leo Garcia, who supports the proposal.

The Sullivan City EDC collects a half-cent sales tax,

Wednesday January 23, 2019 9:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M.

9:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M.

SOUTH

TEXAS

BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL PORT ISABEL, TEXAS

Port Isabel Event Cultural Center 309 E. Railroad Ave

Goldwing Express

With Special Guest Leslie Blasing

The Kody Norris Show

As Seen on RFD TV all the way from Tennessee

Along with many other bands For more information call Lynn Clasen (952) 261-8480 or Norma Reyes (956) 219-9072

Tickets $20.00 p/p S P O N S O R E D B Y:

Garcia started reviewing ways to revive the Sullivan City EDC after winning the May 2017 mayoral election.

He discussed the issue with Segovia, who suggested three options: dissolving the Sullivan City EDC, reviving the Sullivan City EDC or replacing the Sullivan City EDC with a municipal development district.

“My job right now is just to inform them of the different options that they have,” Segovia said.

Segovia supervised the switch from an economic development corporation to a municipal development dis-

from pg. 1

trict in Palmview.

While similar to a Type B economic development corporation — the kind that Sullivan City created — a municipal development district offers several advantages.

Perhaps the most important: Unlike an economic development corporation, which may only collect sales tax within city limits, a municipal development district may collect sales tax in the city’s extra-territorial jurisdiction too.

The municipal development district would be supervised by an all-volunteer board appointed by the

City Commission. Members would be required to live in Sullivan City and couldn’t work for the city government.

Making the switch would require voter approval.

During the Dec. 6 workshop, Garcia, City Commissioner Sylvia Castillo and City Commissioner Adriana Rodriguez appeared to support the idea. City Commissioner Gabriel Salinas and City Commissioner Daniel Flores didn’t attend.

“It’s in the best interest of the city to go with the MDD,” Garcia said.

101 YEARS OF LIFE

loving home the best that she could.

In the 1950’s, Esperanza and Jesus took their family on the road as they traveled for several years to work seasonally as migrant farmworkers in the fields of Michigan, Ohio and Idaho.

While her family worked in the fields, Esperanza was back in the migrant camps preparing meals and taking care of the youngest of the bunch.

In 1956 at 39 years old, Esperanza became a U.S. citizen, which served as another highlight in her long life.

Her life has also been marred by tragedy with the loss of six of her children, and then the death of her husband in 1993. In the midst of sadness, Esperanza always overcame and remained strong for herself and family.

In her earlier years, Esperanza regularly enjoyed a night out of dancing with Jesus, her dance partner for life.

The pair was known

for crashing weddings and quinceañeras on the weekends to dance the night away.

Esperanza made sure to take a gift with her so they did not go empty-handed.

In her later years before her dementia progressed, she was a regular at the Amigos del Valle in Mission, where she made lots of good friends and enjoyed participating in arts and crafts projects, of which she distributed among her family.

Her pastime was bingo, which she loved to play weekly and on weekends, often times with her daughters, daughter-in-law and grandchildren. Her other passion was playing the slot machines at any casino in the country, but her favorite was Las Vegas. She loved to gamble and just have a blast with her family.

She was a fashionista as well. She usually rocked some type of animal print or sparkly outfit.

Esperanza loved to break out her fur coat when the

weather was just right in the Rio Grande Valley. She taught her family how a little sparkle and shine can change your life.

She is a grandmother to 35 grandkids, who affectionately call her “Wela Esperanza” or “Ama,” and has an abundance of great-grandkids and great-great grandkids – too many to count.

For the past several years she has been bedridden at her home in Mission due to dementia. The condition robbed her of memory and speech, but not of her big heart. Her daughter, Diana Garza, and son-in-law, Luis Garza, have dedicated themselves to taking care of her.

For Esperanza, her family is everything and in her 101 years she has had no regrets.

Even in her moments of grief and sadness, she just kept on keeping on and continues to celebrate life and move forward; as we all should aspire to do.

We offer a large selection of products that will help you fulfill all of your printing needs.

Choose from a variety of exclusive product lines including: business cards, postcards, brochures, and much more.

Highest Quality Design & Print Services

(956) 585-4893 Printed marketing materials at rock-bottom wholesale costs.

NEW LOOK?

December 14, 2018

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

Survivors include her husband, Juan Salinas of Mission; son, Emilio Garcia Jr. of Mission; siblings, Jesus Alaniz Jr. of Mission and Maria Jasso of Edinburg; and four grandchildren, three step-grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ofelia M. and Jesus Alaniz, and sisters, Nora Botello and Diana Alaniz.

A memorial service was held on Dec. 8 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Mission.

Napoleon Prudencio MISSION – Napoleon Prudencio, 79, passed away on Saturday, Dec.8, 2018, at Amara Hospice in Edinburg.

Mr. Prudencio was born in Manila, Philippines, and came to Mission in 1979. He was a member of St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Mission.

He served 10 years in the United States Navy and 10 years in the United States Air Force where he retired as a Tech Sergeant. He served during the Vietnam War. Survivors include his wife of 43 years, Marilou G. Prudencio of Mission.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Crispin and Modesta Prudencio, and sister, Librada Prudencio.

PT

A funeral service was held on Dec.11 at St. Paul’s. Burial followed at Rio Grande Valley State Veterans Cemetery in Mission. Military honors were conducted by VFW Post 8788 in McAllen.

The family requested memorial contributions be made to the American Border Foundation.

Carlos Torres MISSION – Carlos Jaime Torres Cardenas, 64, passed away on Saturday, Dec. 8, 2018 in Reynosa, Tamps, Mexico.

Mr. Cardenas was born in General Teran, N.L., Mexico on Aug. 12, 1954, and became a resident of the United States in 1955. He attended school in Lodi, Calif., and served in the U.S. Army from 1972 to 1976 at Fort Bragg, N.C. He worked as a mechanic, handyman and a guardsman at TMF. Survivors include his children, Marcella Becerra, Tammy Mosqueda, Domingo Mosqueda, Carlos Mosqueda, Robert Mosqueda, Sammy Mosqueda and Michael Mosqueda; mother, Virginia C. Torres; siblings, Alfredo Torres, Isaac Torres Jr., Graciela Rivera, Norma Treviño, Mirna Guerrero and Lucila Martinez; and 18 grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

He was preceded in death by his father, Isaac J. Torres, and brother, Oscar Torres.

A funeral service was held on Dec. 13 at Iglesia

progresstimes

progresstimes

progresstimes

Adventista del Septimo Dia in Mission. Burial followed at the RGV State Veteran’s Cemetery in Mission.

Notices William Brown MISSION – William Franklin Brown, 91, passed away on Sunday, Dec. 9, 2018, at Mission Regional Medical Center.

Homero De La Garza MISSION – Homero De La Garza, 59, passed away on Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018, at Mission Regional Medical Center.

Emmanuel Garza MISSION – Emmanuel Garza, 39, passed away on Sunday, Dec. 9, 2018, at Doctor’s Hospital in Edinburg.

Jorge Gonzalez MISSION – Jorge Gonzalez, 58, passed away on Wednesday, Dec. 5, 2018, at Mission Regional Medical Center.

Dalia Gutierrez ALTON – Dalia S Gutierrez, 34, passed away on Tuesday, Dec. 4, 2018, at Mission Regional Medical Center.

Alejandra Herrera MISSION – Alejandra Herrera, 73, passed away on Tuesday, Dec. 4, 2018, at her home in Mission.

Mathias Hillis MISSION – Mathias Hillis, three months, passed away on Thursday, Dec. 6, 2018, at Driscoll Children’s Hospital in McAllen.

Albert Lopez MISSION – Albert James Lopez, infant, passed away on Saturday, Dec. 8, 2018, at Women’s Hospital in Edinburg.

Cirilo Ochoa MISSION – Cirilo Ochoa, 94, passed away on Thurs-

day, Dec. 6, 2018, at his home.

Pedro Ozuna PEÑITAS – Pedro G. Ozuna, 72, passed away on Monday, Dec. 10, 2018, at Mission Regional Medical Center.

America Perez PEÑITAS – America Perez, 51, passed away on Friday, Dec. 7, 2018, at her home in Peñitas.

Choulette Pittman LA JOYA – Choulette Pittman, 77, passed away on Sunday, Dec. 9, 2018, at Contigo Hospice in McAllen.

Edward Randall MISSION – Edward Leroy Randall, 78, passed away on Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2018, at Solara Hospital in McAllen.

Jose Salinas MISSION – Jose Salinas, 70, passed away on Friday, Nov. 23, 2018, at Mission Regional Medical Center.

Donaciano Sanchez MISSION – Donaciano Palomo Sanchez, 77, passed away on Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2018, at Mission Regional Medical Center.

Ebed Silva ALTON – Ebed Melec Silva, 57, passed away on Wednesday, Dec. 5, 2018, at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston.

Jorge Solis MISSION – Jorge Javier Solis, 66, passed away on Sunday, Dec. 9, 2018, at Edinburg Regional Medical Center.

Linda Utberg MISSION – Linda L. Utberg, 64, passed away on Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2018, at Las Palmas Healthcare Center in McAllen.

For the latest news and updates

progresstimes

ChurCh DireCtory BREAD OF LIFE CHURCH 2820 N. Conway Ave. • 581-1411 CHURCH OF THE GOOD SHEPHERD 2322 N. McColl. - McAllen 682-2092 CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS 5609 S 29th St. - McAllen 682-4881 CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS 2Mile & Bryan Rd Mission.

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS Missonaries • 580-2570 CHRISTIAN SCIENCE CHURCH 911 N. Main - McAllen 686-4241 CONWAY AVENUE BAPTIST CHURCH 2215 N. Conway • 585-2413 EL FARO BIBLE CHURCH 15 miles W. of Mission on Exp. 83 Sullivan City, TX • 585-5617 EL MESIAS UNITED METHODIST 209 E. 6th • 585-2334 FAITH BAPTIST CHURCH 3 miles N. Shary Rd. • 581-1465 FAITH FELLOWSHIP BIBLE CHURCH 1 mile N. Exp. 83 on Tom Gill Rd. 519-6311 FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 1302 Doherty • 585-1442 FIRST CHRISTIAN CHURCH 12th and Miller - Mission 585-7281 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1102 Ash St. • 585-4829 for worship schedule.

page 9

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

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

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

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

585-3203 PEÑITAS BAPTIST CHURCH 1/3 Mile S. of Exp.83 on FM 1427 583-6236 PRIMERA BAPTIST CHURCH Corner of 6th & Oblate 585-4711

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

3805 Plantation Grove Blvd., Ste. 5

Mission • 580-4551

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

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

KING, GUERRA, DAVIS & GARCIA ATTORNEYS AT LAW

DAVID H. GUERRA

DARRELL DAVIS

301 E. Tom Landry • Mission • 585-1622

MISSION AUTO ELECTRIC, INC. DBA

ER MAE EPQOU IW PMENT

Commercial Lawn Equipment “Since 1954”

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

Mission students place in regional art contest

As the Region One Education Service Center (ESC) works on sending out their official cards for the holiday season, two of the three winners will show the talents of students from Mission Consolidated Independent School District (CISD).

Savannah Reynolds, a second grade student a Bryan Elementary won the elementary division with her artwork that included a Texas boot and a cactus. The high school division was won by Victor Esparza, a sophomore at Mission High School, whose artwork included a guitar, cowboy hat and tamales.

Out of the hundreds submitted, the winning entries become the artwork on the “official” Region One ESC holiday card sent out to area superintendents, school districts and statewide education agencies. A winner was selected by a panel of judges in the elementary, middle school and high school divisions.

Art contest guidelines stipulated the artwork reflect the holiday season in the South Texas area. The winners received a set of holiday cards with their design to share with friends and family, plus a prize package

Savannah Reynolds 2nd Grade, Bryan Elementary

Victor Esparza 10th Grade, Mission High School

page 10 from pg. 1

FOR THE CITY

wishes to the Patriots as they represented the Valley.

For two weeks, the Mission Veterans Patriots became the Valley’s team.

When the day finally arrived and the Patriots took the Alamodome field for the Region IV Championship against San Antonio Wagner, a team essentially playing a home game, Mission Veterans’ fans and supporters who made the trip from across the RGV easily outnumbered the Wagner fans on the opposite side.

“That’s just who we are down here, we support our own,” said Patriots’ Head Coach Davis Gilpin. “There's a kindred spirit between Valleyites that I think is very unique to the state, probably the entire nation, and it’s a neat thing. The reaching out people did to us was

from pg. 1

very powerful. It was a great motivation for us, we had a great couple weeks of practice in the 3rd and 4th round and I think a lot of it was due to understanding that we’re representing a lot of people.

“Our entire city, you saw the crowd up there, goalline to goalline the entire bottom bowl of the Alamodome was full; we had three or four times the crowd that Wagner had and they’re minutes away from the dome,” Coach Gilpin continued. “That is the Rio Grande Valley in a nutshell, they support high school football and I guarantee there were a lot of people up there who were not from Mission. That’s one of the neat byproducts of sports, to see it happen for our team at the high school level was absolutely rewarding and I could not be more apprecia-

MCISD BOARD

recognize 388 students for their accomplishments so far this year. The Veterans Memorial High School football team was honored for the multiple championships they earned, Mission High School and VMHS marching bands were honored for their accomplishments in the University Interscholastic League competitions and the members of the National FFA Organization at MHS who participate in parliamentary procedure teams were honored for competing at the state competition.

The board of trustees approved the purchase of SMART boards for the district after discussing it during the committee meetings next week. The boards, which will be purchased from AISYS Consulting LLC, will

cost about $92,000.

An item was pulled for executive session regarding the consideration and possible action regarding an energy savings performance contract and related audit contract with Performance Services, Inc. PSI was recently given a letter of intent by the city of Mission to perform an investment grade audit on existing services, energy use and infrastructure. While debated by the city council due to the city having to pay PSI $85,371 whether they actually enter into their services after the audit or not, the letter was approved by a 3-2 vote by the council and mayor.

PSI did an initial free study and audit for MCISD earlier this year, however this new contract would have

tive of the fans, of the Valley and of our community.”

Even after the Patriots returned home after falling short to Wagner, supporters throughout the RGV community were there to let them know how proud they were of everything the little team from Mission accomplished.

“We felt like we had maybe disappointed people down here because we didn’t come out with the win, but it was the complete opposite,” said senior quarterback Landry Gilpin. “We came back down and everybody around that has seen us has said ‘congratulations’ and ‘y’all made us proud and had a great season’, so it was really nice to hear that because that’s not what we felt with the team, so coming back down and hearing that message, it was special.” been for the company to enter into a more formal audit and financing of PSI doing certain studies on the district’s energy performance.

On the full agenda available on the district’s website, there are no details or notes about the contract or this item.

Representatives of PSI were present at the MCISD board meeting when the item was pulled for executive session. After executive session, the item was taken for a vote.

The contract was voted down 2-5 by the board of trustees. Members Dr. Sonia Treviño and Patty O’caña-Olivarez voted in favor of awarding the contract, and the remaining board members voted against it.

Tuesday, January 8, 2019 9:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M.

SOUTH

TEXAS WINTER FEST

PORT ISABEL, TEXAS

Port Isabel Event Cultural Center 309 E. Railroad Ave

Danica Rae Bird

December 14, 2018

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com from pg. 1 EDINBURG

Greg Jones

LIVE MUSIC!

Leslie Blasing

FREE The Kody Norris Goldwing Show Express ADMISSION!

Vendors: $400 To Sponsor an entertainer: will receive 3-4 weeks of free advertising throughout the RGV. Entrance, with table and chairs to South Texas Winter Fest.

$100.00 includes, entrance, table and chairs.

Hand out Literature, Coupons, Discounts, talk to Locals & Winter Texans one to one.

For more information call Lynn Clasen (952) 261-8480 or Norma Reyes (956) 219-9072

S P O N S O R E D B Y:

Just seven days later, Guerra fired longtime Finance Director Ascencion Alonzo and pushed out Assistant Finance Director Pedro Garza III. Molina said the City Council doesn’t make personnel decisions and depends on the city manager to supervise day-to-day operations.

“I do want to add that Juan has been a city manager before for a previous city and he does have experience as a city manager,” Molina said. “This is not his first rodeo, and we do trust that he’s going to make the right decisions for our city and our taxpayers.”

The justification for demoting the police chief, though, prompted serious questions about how Guerra makes decisions.

“It started with WalletHub.com,” Guerra said, referencing the personal finance website, which publishes lists on a wide variety of topics. “That’s kind of the site that every city promotes.”

WalletHub churns out lists ranking everything from the “Most Sinful Cities in America” to the “Best & Worst Cities for Keeping Your New Year’s Resolutions.”

Edinburg ranked 95th among 117 cities analyzed as part of a list called “2018’s Best & Worst Cities for Texas Families.” The list included a category called “Education, Health & Safety,” which scored cities based on property crime, violent crime, air quality, the high school graduation rate and the number of pediatricians per 100,000 residents, among other factors.

McAllen, Pharr and Mission all scored significantly higher than Edinburg.

“So what I did is, I checked other sites,” Guerra said, adding that he wanted to know whether or not the poor WalletHub score was an anomaly.

He checked AreaVibes. com, which assigns places a “Livability Score.” He checked SafeHome.org, which recommends home security systems. And he checked Niche.com, which helps consumers find good schools and neighborhoods.

All of them ranked Edinburg behind McAllen, Pharr and Mission.

“And this was the basis for it all, really,” Guerra said.

“Because you take a look at every single website and Edinburg was rated the lowest when it comes to public safety.”

Asked if he would evaluate himself based on WalletHub and AreaVibes rankings, Guerra said he considered the rankings an indication of performance.

“I would equate this to Zillow,” Guerra said, referring to a popular real estate website that shows ratings for nearby schools.

A bad rating on Zillow. com might convince a prospective buyer to look elsewhere.

“If I’m a school, I’m taking a look at that. Right? Because, darn it, they’re rating me,” Guerra said. “So if I’m a police officer, I’m picking one of these and I’m going to pay attention to that. Because that’s how I’m rated.

It’s part of benchmarking.

It’s part of understanding where you stand as far as effectiveness. If not this, how do you judge effectiveness?

Right? Because this is unbiased. These guys don’t care about Edinburg. They don’t know about Edinburg. They just get data and they form an assumption based on it. And they do it the same to every single city.”

While based on data from reputable sources, including the U.S. Census Bureau and the FBI, the lists aren’t scientific and rely on arbitrary ranking systems.

Niche assigned Edinburg a C+ ranking for “Crime and Safety” based on 11 factors, which ranged from the murder rate to U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data on excessive drinking.

Both Niche and WalletHub evaluated Edinburg in part on Uniform Crime Reporting data published by the FBI, which explicitly warns against ranking law enforcement jurisdictions based on crime statistics.

“These incomplete analyses have often created misleading perceptions which adversely affect geographic entities and their residents,”

according to an FBI statement on crime statistics.

“For this reason, the FBI has a longstanding policy against ranking participating law enforcement agencies on the basis of crime data alone.

Despite repeated warnings against these practices, some data users continue to challenge and misunderstand this position.”

Kevin Lawrence, the executive director of the Texas Municipal Police Association, said he considered the rankings laughable.

“It’s very superficial data.

I think it’s more or less subjective — subject to manipulation,” Lawrence said.

“You could just as easily find someone to create a document to claim that Edinburg is the best place in the world to live.”

Along with the public safety rankings, Guerra said he reviewed the results of an employee survey.

The survey determined that 22 percent of police department employees who responded weren’t comfortable speaking with a supervisor about problems, according to a summary Edinburg released under the Texas Public Information Act. “That’s huge,” Guerra said. “If there’s a problem, talk to management.”

Other survey results included that 18 percent of police department employees felt they weren’t treated with respect and 44 percent didn’t think promotions were “fair and equitable.”

Many promotions within the department, however, are dictated by how employees score on civil service exams. The results also showed that a majority of police department employees who responded to the survey believed they were treated with respect and felt comfortable talking with a supervisor about problems.

Based on the survey results and public safety rankings, Guerra signed a memo accusing White of “unsatisfactory job performance” and demoted him to lieutenant.

“It sounds like they knew what they wanted to do,” Lawrence said. “They just needed a reason to do it.”

theclassifieds December 14, 2018

For Rent

Help Wanted

WAREHOUSE FOR RENT 3,200 sq.ft. (.33 cents per sq.ft), located North Glasscock Rd & Highway 83 in Sharylnad with office and bathroom, high ceilings and overhead doors, for more information call 956212-1791 or 956454-3766.

SERVERS AND KITCHEN help needed, part & full time, open 11am- 8pm, Riverside Club, 214 East Chimney Rd. in Mission, call 956-5811033, ask for Jennifer.

Now

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

GENERAL MANAGER Hidalgo County Irrigation District No. 6 (the “District”) is accepting applications for the position of General Manager. The District services approximately 14,020 acres of irrigable farm land. The General Manager plans, organizes, hires staff, directs and reviews the day-to-day operations of the District. The General Manager advises and assists the Board of Directors; represents the District’s interests at local, regional, State and Federal levels; and researches and prepares technical and administrative reports and studies. Essential duties of the General Manager position include: Employee Leadership: In accordance with the District’s personnel policies, procedures, and practices, the General Manager plans and assigns work’ selects and trains employees; conducts performance planning, evaluation and coaching’ monitors work flow; reviews and evaluates work products, methods, policies and procedures; and recognizes, motivates and disciplines employees.

Financial Management: Assists with the development and administration of the District’s budget; directs the forecast of additional funds needed for staffing, equipment, materials and supplies; directs capital improvement programs, monitors and approves expenditures; implements mid-year adjustments; and keeps the Board of Directors apprised of the financial condition and needs of the District.

Labor Relations: Directs the District’s labor relations with employees including meet and confer. Receives and reviews employee response to proposed disciplinary actions; and makes recommendations on terminations and disciplinary actions. Interprets and applies District policies, procedures, and practices.

Safety: Supports the District’s safety program; ensures subordinates follow appropriate safety practices in work; enforces safety procedures; and educates employees on safety rules, regulations and codes, safe work habits, and potential hazards of their work. Responds during emergency situations, including occurrences after normal working hours.

Any combination of experience and training that provides the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. Administrative and management experience in the management of public water, irrigation, and/or other like public utility facilities or related field is preferred. Other qualifications may be considered.

Interested applicants may pick up applications at the main office located at 3735 N. F.M. 492 (Goodwin Rd.) Mission, TX 78573 between the hours of 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Interested applicants should either hand-deliver resumes and applications or mail their resumes and applications addressed as follows: If Hand- Delivered: “Confidential” to: Board President Hidalgo County Irrigation District No.6 3735 N. Fm 492 (Goodwin Rd.) Mission, Texas 78573

page 11

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

If Mailed: “Confidential” to: Board President Hidalgo County Irrigation District No.6 P.O. Box 786 Mission, Texas 78573

Resumes and applications must be received either by hand-delivery or mail at the above-address as applicable on or before 3:00 P.M. on January 31, 2019.

HIDALGO COUNTY IRRIGATION DISTRICT NO. 6 IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.

Classified Rate:

1 Week = $7.00 2 Weeks = $10.00 4 Weeks = $14.00 PUBLIC NOTICE Cellco Partnership and its controlled affiliates doing business as Verizon Wireless (Verizon Wireless) is proposing to build a 115-foot monopole Telecommunications Tower in the vicinity of 612 Schuerbach Road, Mission, TX 78572. Public comments regarding potential effects from this site on historic properties may be submitted within 30-days from the date of this publication to: Project 6118008392 - TC c/o EBI Consulting, 6876 Susquehanna Trail South, York, PA 17403, tcubie@ebiconsulting.com, or via telephone at (339) 234-2597.

PUBLIC NOTICE CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT

Hidalgo County Irrigation District No. 6 (“HCID #6”) is soliciting proposals from qualified firms of certified public accountants to audit HCID # 6’s financial statements for the fiscal year ending December 2018.

Please submit your sealed proposal of services and a statement of qualifications for the proposed services to the address below: HCID #6 Attn: Board President 3735 N. FM 492 Mission, Texas 78573 Proposals shall be received by HCID #6 no later than 3:00 p.m. on January 14, 2019.

Requests for Qualifications package may be obtained at the HCID #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.

NOTICE TO PUBLIC/PUBLIC HEARING CITY OF MISSION CONSOLIDATED ANNUAL PERFORMANCE AND EVALUATION REPORT FY 2017-18 (DRAFT) The Citizens Advisory Committee will be holding a Public Hearing on December 18, 2018 at 5:30 p.m. at the Mission City Hall Council Chambers, 1201 E. 8th Street, Mission, Texas and extending the comment period to solicit input for the Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) FY 17-18 (DRAFT) from December 17, 2018 through December 26, 2018 by 5:00, due to there being no quorum at the Public Hearing held on December 11, 2018. The CAPER is a document required by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, which contains a summary of resources and accomplishments of the Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG).

Persons with disabilities or non-English speaking who need to communicate more effectively and who may need auxiliary aids or services such as interpreters for persons who are deaf or hearing impaired are asked to call (956) 580-8670 at least three working days in advance of the hearing so that appropriate arrangements can be made. Relay Texas may also be contacted at 800-735-2999 (TTY) or 711 (Voice).

AVISO AL PUBLICO / AUDENCIA PUBLICA El Comité Consultivo de Ciudadanos llevará a cabo una Audiencia Pública/ Reunión Especial el 18 de diciembre de 2018 a las 5:30 p.m. en la Comisión Consultiva de los Ciudadanos de Mission, 1201 E. 8th Street, Mission, Texas y extendiendo el período de comentarios para solicitar información para la reunión anual Consolidado de Desempeño y Evaluación (CAPER) FY 17-18 (borrador) del 17 de diciembre de 2018 hasta el 26 de diciembre de 2018 a las 5:00, debido de falta de quórum en la Audiencia Pública prevista para el 11 de diciembre de 2018. El CAPER es un documento requerido por el Departamento de Vivienda y Desarrollo Urbano de EE. UU., Que contiene un resumen de los recursos y logros del Programa de Subvenciones Globales de Desarrollo Comunitario (CDBG).

Las personas con discapacidades o que no hablen inglés y necesiten comunicarse de manera más efectiva y necesiten ayuda o servicios auxiliares como intérpretes para personas sordas o con problemas de audición deben hablar al (956) 5808670 al menos tres días hábiles antes de la audiencia para que se puedan hacer los arreglos necesarios. También se puede contactar a Relevo Texas al 800-7352999 (TTY) o 711 (Voz).

page page 612

December14, 7, 2018 2018 December

www.ptrgv.com || www.strgv.com www.strgv.com www.ptrgv.com

Holiday Shopping Spree

Register to win at any or all of the businesses on these pages.

You can also register to win by signing up for the GoMission Discount Card, or for current cardholders show us your card, at Progress Times. Remember, you increase your chances of winning by visiting more of these businesses and registering at each location.

Transforming Lives...

La Joya ISD

Transforming Communities!

Holiday Specials

For The Month of December

• 10% OFF MEMBERSHIPS FOR ALL NEW MEMBERS

• $5 OFF WEEKDAY GREEN FEES • $20 GREEN FEES FOR LARGE GROUPS HAVING 20 OR MORE PAYING PLAYERS • 15% OFF PRO SHOP MERCHANDISE Hours of Operation: Mon.-Sun. 7am - 6:30pm

Fiesta Lube Express

7400 W. Expressway 83 • Mission, TX • 956-585-6330

Shary Municipal

Full Service Oil Change

GOLF COURSE

$

35

10

99 $

Oil Change with FREE 15 point Inspection

Expires: December 31, 2018

OFF

A/C or Brake Service

Expires: December 31, 2018

5

$

Happy Holidays!

OFF

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

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

585-0115

1418 E. Bus. 83 • Mission, TX

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

(Between Bryan Rd. & Stewart Rd.)

36

Visit The Soda Fountain this winter On North 10th Street

630-2367

COMPUTERIZED PRESCRIPTIONS HOSPITAL BEDS I.V. NUTRITION WHEELCHAIRS OXYGEN & RESPIRATORY THERAPY EQUIPMENT DIABETIC SHOES -1901 S. 1st • McAllen 7 am - Midnight • Every day

686-3716

5120 N. 10th St. • McAllen Mon. - Sat. • 7 a.m. - 11 p.m.

630-5500

Vehicle loans as low as

3.65

%

apr

CALL OR CLICK TODAY!

*

New • Used • Refinanced

Membership Available to anyone who lives, works or has an immediate family member in Hidalgo County. Call Us For Details.

Insured by NCUA. Equal housing lender.

LOCATIONS IN: LA JOYA • PALMVIEW

(956) 585-6207 www.lajoyafcu.com

*Some conditions may apply. APR: Annual Percentage Rate.

Insured by NCUA. Equal housing lender.

Register For $200 WE SPECIALIZE IN:

• Diabetic Shoes • Nebulizers • Prescription Drugs • Wheelchairs • Adult & Children’s Diapers • Diabetic Supplies • Full Line DME Supplies • Specialty Compounding Available • We Carry Relano Diabetic Shoes • Free Pickup & Delivery of Prescriptions

Find Santa’s sleigh.

Name the business ad

where it is located:________________________ Store Where Registering:___________________ Name: _________________________________ Address: _______________________________ Phone:_________________________________

Pharmacy & Medical Equipment

Fred Moron, R.Ph. 2120 E. Griffin Pkwy.

Mission • 581-5499

Alberto Vela, R.Ph. 1242 E. Bus 83, Ste. #7 Mission • 583-2700

Hours of Operation: Mon.-Fri. 9am-7pm • Sat. 9am-1pm

Email: _________________________________ q Yes, I would like to receive newsletter and promotional emails from Progress Times.

No Purchase Necessary. Must be age 18 or older

Limit one entry per person per business location. Employees and immediate family members of the participating businesses, or Progress Times are ineligible.

Entry deadline: 12 p.m. Dec. 28. No purchase necessary.

Justin Felkner D.D.S.

Timothy W. Brann D.D.S.

Richard A. Young D.D.S.

GENERAL DENTISTRY EXCEPTIONAL CARE 2407 E. Griffin Pkwy. (FM 495 & Shary Rd.) • Mission

956-581-2773