Friday, October 18, 2019_PT ISSUE by Progress Times

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Vol. 48 - #9

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MISSION NEWS

Friday, October 18, 2019 • MISSION

Ten years of thinking pink

This week we have the latest information from Mission, including details from the city council and housing authority meetings.

LJISD NEWS

Progress Times photo by Jamie Treviño.

Supporting Surrounded by Love at the 10th annual Mission Pink 5K Walk/Run benefiting the “Making Strides Against Breast Cancer” cause.

PG. 3

HIDALGO COUNTY

MRMC and ACS hold walk/run for breast cancer awareness in Mission By Jamie Treviño For Monica Mottu, this weekend was a good opportunity to teach her daughter Sofia about the importance of breast cancer awareness. Last Saturday, Oct. 12, the Mission Regional Medical Center, along with the American Cancer Society, held the 10th annual Mission Pink 5K Walk/

Run, which benefited the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer cause. This is the first year MRMC and ACS teamed up to bring this event to Mission. “This new partnership strengthens our commitment to helping everyone in the Rio Grande Valley affected by cancer,” said April Chapa, Community Development Manager with the

• RIO GRANDE VALLEY

We have several stories from throughout the county, featuring the Sheriff’s Office and the Border Patrol.

PG. 4

FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS

GAME OF THE WEEK Rattlers, Diamondbacks return to action in the Snakeskin Classic. See John Hamann story.

PG. 7

INDEX Sports.......................pg. 6 Entertainment...pg. 8 Lifestyle...................pg. 9 Death Notices.pg. 11 Classifieds...........pg. 12

Mission mayor asked police chief to ‘expedite’ Sullivan City commissioner’s arraignment By Dave Hendricks

PG. 2

The La Joya ISD school board president embraces transparency, and the district has some projects in the works to improve safety.

• MISSION

American Cancer Society. “With a community champion like MRMC, the American Cancer Society hopes to continue to build on the wonderful success of Mission Pink over the last decade. Whether someone is currently dealing with a breast cancer diagnosis, or may face one in the future, the American Cancer Society is always ready to help make a difference

See MISSION PINK Pg. 11

At 9:08 a.m. on Sept. 21, the mayor of Mission sent a text message to police Chief Robert Dominguez. It was a sunny Saturday morning at Nikki Rowe High School in McAllen, where Dominguez had arrived to watch Joaquin Espericueta — the son of police Cpl. Jose Luis “Speedy” Espericueta, who died in the line of duty three months earlier — play football. Roughly six miles away in Mission, police had arrested Sullivan City Commissioner Gabriel Salinas after a domestic disturbance. Mayor Armando “Doc” O’caña asked Dominguez if he could intervene. “Is it possible to expedite his arraignment this morning and process him out...” O’caña wrote, according to a copy of the text message released under the Texas Public Information Act. “Only if it is possible...when you can..” Dominguez said he read

See MISSION MAYOR Pg. 11

• PALMHURST

MOSTHistory director reflects on 30 years of service

National Night Out brings out local law enforcement, community together

By Jose De Leon III

Despite accepting a job as the executive director at Edinburg’s Museum of South Texas History in 1989, Shan Rankin never considered herself a historian. “It’s been 30 years of worrying,” Rankin, 69, said. “I’m not the historian I’m the person who worries about how things are running, that kind of thing. But along the way I’ve been privileged to work with several wonderful people these last three decades.” Last month, the museum announced the hiring of her successor-Edcouch Elsa native Francisco Guajardo-with Rankin continuing to serve as executive director to help with the transition. When Rankin steps down at the end of the year, she will leave behind a museum she has helped build into one that serves thousands of visitors per year after overseeing multiple expansions and securing accreditation by the American Alliance of Museums. “The museum shares with the community the stories of our region. One of the hopes we had is that when people come, we’d bring the kind of museum experience you’d have in San Antonio here so you don’t have to travel,” Rankin said. “There’s a lot of peo-

Community members in western Hidalgo County gathered at North Mission Church of Christ Tuesday for family fun and a opportunity to interact with local law enforcement agencies. The City of Palmhurst held its 8th annual National Night Out event, a nationwide celebration between members of the public and law enforcement agencies. Though the National Night Out campaign celebrated its 35th anniversary last Au-

Shan Rankin

Museum of South Texas History Executive Director (Courtesy photo)

ple who don’t leave the Valley. There’s 12,000-15,000 school children coming to the museum every year, that may be their only visit. We want to be really high quality.” In honor of her work, Rankin was recognized Tuesday, Oct. 8 by Hidalgo County Commissioner’s Court for her three decades of service. Rankin reflected on her years as director following this recognition. “I think we’ve grown gradually and we’ve done it in a financially responsible way,” Rankin said. “When I started, the endowment fund was $50,000, it’s now almost $4 million. The budget

See MOSTHISTORY Pg. 4

gust, Palmhurst typically waits until October to participate due to the heat. “We wanted an event to bring the community together,” Palmhurst police Chief Michael Vela said. “This is one day out of the year we can all get together to communicate with each other on any issues. It’s to show the community we support them in the biggest event the city throws.” The nearly 1,200 attendees were greeted at the event by law enforcement agents from the Texas Department

of Public Safety, Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office and police officers from the cities of Mission, Palmhurst, Alton and more. Performers from the Mission, Sharyland and La Joya school districts provided entertainment and kids enjoyed a carnival, petting zoo and vendors from local organizations who were handing free gifts to the public. Serving as the emcee for the event was state Rep.

See PALMHURST NNO Pg. 11

Progress Times photo by Jose De Leon III.

Edith Castillo helps her sons climb into one of the carnival rides at the city of Palmhurst’s 8th annual National Night Out Tuesday, Oct. 16, 2019 at the North Mission Church of Christ.

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October 18, 2019

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Mission Housing Authority resident receives cease and desist letter from board member By Jose De Leon III Despite residents at the Palm Plaza Development senior center having food services resuming, one resident still voiced concerns Wednesday at the decision by the Mission Housing Authority Board to deny those services in the first place. During Wednesday’s board meeting, Susana G. Pierce-a resident from Palm Plaza-spoke out against the actions of the board and notified the members that she was given a cease and desist letter from board member Connie Garza following a previous meeting where Pierce openly criticized her and board member Irma Flores-Lopez. “I don’t think it’s fair that I, a woman at my age, be delivered a letter in front of an officer saying that if I don’t stop this, I would get punished, “Pierce said. The letter was dated Oct. 1 and signed by Garza who was not in attendance of the meeting. “I don’t want to take legal action but it’s unfortunate I had to take this course of action but I have to exercise what is available to me when someone is trying to discredit me or tarnish my reputation,” Garza said in a phone interview Thursday. “I did what I felt I needed to do. When people engage in conduct that may be inflammatory or intended to discredit the charac-

ter or reputation of a person, they cross a line where the person being hurt must evaluate their options.” Pierce had spoken out against Garza and Flores-Lopez last month when the two members voted to deny members of the public to be allowed to access the senior center and cited safety concerns. This denial occurred despite a stipulation from the Area Agency on Aging that allows the center to receive $40,000 in funds to pay the salaries of three employees there. According to Executive Director Joel A. Gonzalez, while the food service was interrupted for a week due to Amigos del Valle-the agency providing food to residents-also having a similar stipulation when it comes to which senior centers it feeds. However, following a meeting between Gonzalez, Amigos del Valle and Mission Mayor Armando O’cana, the mayor agreed to let members of the public use the center again with volunteers serving the food. As the AAA deadline for the funds passed at the beginning of the month, however, the housing authority no longer has access to the $40,000 and had to fire the senior center’s employees. When the board voted on the senior center, members of the public feared that it would mean a stop to food being

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served to residents. “Who gave Miss Irma and Connie the right to disturb the peace at our space?” Pierce said last month. “I’m a resident and...before you do any manipulation, think of us elders who are grateful for the local government for giving us the right to have a good life. Don’t take that away.” On Wednesday however, Pierce was back with a copy of a cease and desist letter that was signed by Garza. “You have participated in meetings and conversations which have harmed my reputation,” the letter states. “I demand that you cease and desist immediately any and all slanderous/libelous communication about me. Your failure to comply, will leave no other alternative but to pursue all legal remedies available to me under the law.”

According to Pierce, the letter was hand delivered to her during a garage sale at the development center by Garza, Flores-Lopez and a Mission police officer. “The situation at Palm Plaza is chaos,” Pierce said. “We had benefits taken from us that we’ve had for 30 years. We’re now without a driver or an events coordinator who helps us read our mail or a cook. I supported not losing the AAA grant but having Connie and Irma removed from the board”. Flores-Lopez addressed Pierce, and once again stressed the need for safety among Palm Plaza residents and argued that the center would have funds available if either Gonzalez or Deputy Director Jaima A. Ayala stepped down from their roles tdue to the salary of both men.

She produced photos she took of what she described as “unsafe” conditions at the center which included old fire escapes, worn out tiles and resident’s front doors. “I parked and was within five feet of someone’s front door and could hear the telenovela they were watching. Can you imagine how unsafe a resident might feel if a stranger did that?” Flores-Lopez said. “I spoke to other housing authorities and they said they don’t participate in this AAA funding due to safety concerns I shared.” The photos, however, irritated Pierce. “Who gave you the right to enter someone’s private property and take these photos? This is an invasion of privacy, you’re not going to fix this anyway,” Pierce said. The two women briefly ar-

gued during open comments with Chairman Romeo De La Garza interrupting Flores-Lopez to let Pierce finish talking. “One of these days you’ll find out its best just to be quiet,” De La Garza told Flores-Lopez at one point. After the meeting, Flores Lopez defended her and Garza’s comments to send the letter to Pierce as a way for them to “keep the peace.” “She has every right to speak up but I don’t think she was fully informed,” she said. “We stand by what we said about stopping the funds just for members of the public. Maybe I’m wrong but it’s OK. It’s part of change, and it’s coming.”

Mission saving 4.5 percent of costs on tennis center By Jamie Treviño The city will be spending about $86,000 less on the Mission Tennis Center. This Monday, Oct. 14, the city of Mission held a regular council meeting. A change order was presented during the meeting that broke down how the removal of various portions of the existing equipment on the property will result in a cost savings for the center, which will be located at Birdwell Park (located at Stewart Rd and E. 24th St.). “[It] included shade structures for the bleacher area from the contract at a savings of $45,000, this we did inhouse,” Parks and Recreation Director Brad Bentsen said. “The corrugated concrete spillway was at a savings of $6,500, [because] the city engineer felt it was not needed at this time.” Utility adjustments provided a savings of $10,000, which was considered a contingency provided it was needed for the adjustments. There was a savings of $24,500 of the $30,000 contingency fund, and of that $5,500 was spent for the provision of stitched holes for the passing of wind through the park windblocks. The original contract price to construct the Mission Tennis Center was $1,901,700.

The savings, $86,000, makes up about 4.5 percent of that contract. “The total contract price now is $1,815,700,” Bentsen added, saying they have a tentative opening of the tennis center scheduled for Tues. Nov. 26, 2019. The Mission Tennis Center will include 16 tennis courts, a walking trail, workout stations and playscapes, along with resurfacing the grounds and improvements on lighting and fencing. The groundbreaking for the Mission Tennis Center was held Mon. Nov. 5, 2018. The city was also authorized to enter into interlocal agreements with the city of Peñitas and the city of Palmhurst to provide temporary housing for prisoners. It includes the temporary housing and detention of prisoners awaiting arraignment, subject to the availability of space. “The temporary housing of prisoners will be at a cost of $54 per prisoner per day,” Mission Police Chief Robert Dominguez said. “The cost includes detention, transportation and meal costs.” Both contracts started Oct. 1, 2019 and will end on Sept. 30, 2020. This is a renewal of existing contracts that started last year. The funds accrued from holding the detainees goes into the city’s general fund, according to Dominguez. Council member Jessica Ortega-Ochoa asked how much money the city has received from Palmhurst and Peñitas

in the last year of detention, and Dominguez could not give her the exact figures right away. “Our records section records the number of prisoners that come in for the month, they are given to my secretary,” Dominguez said. “My secretary invoices them, but I’ll give you those numbers.” Council member Ruben Plata said he likes to work with the city’s neighbors, but felt $54 was a big liability on Mission. Ortega-Ochoa followed, saying that she wasn’t sure if it was burdening the Mission jails. Dominguez explained that Mission’s understanding with Peñitas and Palmhurst is once the prisoners are brought in to a Mission facility, they have 24 hours to remove them. “Usually a prisoner is brought in the evening hours, or early morning hours,” Dominguez said. “The next day the investigator types out all the arraignment paperwork and gets arraigned by the judge, so really they’re in and out of our facility.” The contracts were approved unanimously by the council. The city also entered into a contract with Safe Track, LLC, dba Safe Global Services in order to provide additional security measures to Mission in relation to the Mexico border. “[Safe Track, LLC] will provide a number of security and intelligence services to the city of Mission as it relates to our proximity to the

U.S./Mexican border and the need to be aware of any potential threats to our International Bridge, our border and our community,” Dominguez said. “The contract will provide for indemnification as requested by the city council.” The total amount of the yearly contract is $15,600. After speaking with a representative of Safe Track, LLC, Dominguez was able to negotiate the monthly rate down from $1,700 to $1,300 per month. The police department will also be receiving an upgrade in existing technology utilized throughout the organization. Mission amended the contract the department held with Tyler Technologies, Inc. in order to upgrade the Standard Software License and Services Agreement. “Our organization is in need of upgrading our software and our services agreement,” Dominguez said. “The total expenditure of the project is $611,745.” The PD has been in a partnership with Tyler Technologies (formerly known as New World Systems) since 1991. The first year’s payment for the upgraded tech - which will cost $338,757.24 - is being covered through the National Information-Based Reporting System (NIBRS) grant from the Office of the Governor. The remaining amount ($272,987.60) will be paid over the next three years starting on Oct. 1, 2020.

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October 18, 2019

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New projects will increase safety measures, a top priority at La Joya ISD Safety incidents are on the rise nationally and in order to deliver the best education La Joya Independent School District continues to maintain safety a top priority. La Joya ISD Board of Trustees and Administration are committed to the safety of students and staff. Board of Trustees have approved projects that will increase safety measures. We will provide safe surroundings and increase security by installing electronic gates in all campuses to secure outside parameters by enclosing them. This will help monitor employees and visitors that arrive at our campuses. An additional safety measure is a state of the art radio communication system for

our police department, first responders in the area and school district staff. This radio communication system will increase connectivity throughout our district, shorten the response time in emergencies, and reach areas that our current system does not, such as schools in the seven mile line area. This update is designed to improve and increase district response to any incident using a unified command system. “At La Joya ISD safety is and always will be our number one priority --- we want our community to know that providing a safe and secure environment for our students and staff is imperative and our priority each and every day.” stated, Raul Gonzalez

LJISD Police Chief. “ We believe that if students do not feel safe, then appropriate learning cannot take place in our classrooms.” Added, Gonzalez. La Joya ISD’s Police Department is staffed with a total of 60 Police Officers, 27 Security Officers, and 3 K9 Officers. The role of a police officer has a lot in common with traditional law enforcement, but there are key differences. The demands of a police officer’s job is unique to a school district, and the role entails being the first line of active shooter response, first-aid or medical care, fire response, handling cases and reports, weather-related emergency response, or handling cases

of lost IDs or theft. Security Guards are primarily a support to campus police. The responsibilities of a security guard are more focused on access – maintaining the front end security for the grounds and facilities. By conducting routine inspections or monitoring the facility desk, security guards observe and report any suspicious behavior, hazardous weather conditions, or unauthorized intruders. While security guards are often able to control access to buildings or manage traffic patterns, the role is less focused on emergency response. The safety and security of students and staff is a shared responsibility. Our district serves over 27,000 students and 4,200 employees - and everyone plays a vital role in the well-being of students. La Joya ISD has many practices and procedures in place to help safeguard our children every minute of every day to, from and on cam-

August 16, 2019

pus. Detailed safety plans such as the All Hazard Emergency Operations Plan, is adopted by the school district to execute if an incident may arise. This EOP describes who will do what, as well as when, with what resources, and by what authority--before, during, and immediately after an emergency. This All Hazard Emergency Operations Plan has been carefully planned, written, and put in place, and will be practiced frequently with our students and staff. We will continue to practice

page 3

and update these plans as is necessary. Preserving trust among staff, students, and families; and creating an environment where students feel empowered to report any safety concerns is important in our district.” stated David Nacianceno, LJISD Emergency Management Coordinator. “Importantly, supporting students’ psychological safety helps build their resilience and ability to cope when a crisis does occur in any setting.” Added Nacianceno.

New La Joya ISD school board president embraces transparency, will make board meeting records available upon request Phase 2 of the PSI Guaranteed Energy Savings Performance Contract Amendment Project.” Without the meeting packet, members of the public didn’t know the board would consider whether or not to borrow $32.5 million for heating, ventilation and air conditioning upgrades, radios, solar panels, security gates, artificial turf for two

Espie Ochoa

LJISD Board Presidnet (Photo courtesy of LJISD)

By Dave Hendricks After two years of tightly restricting access to public records, the La Joya school district plans to start making documents from school board meetings available upon request. In September 2017, when someone provided documents from the school board meeting packet to a local businesswoman, the school district limited access to just a handful of administrators. Two years later, that businesswoman, Mary T. Hernandez, is a member of the school board. With her support, a majority of the trustees backed Espie Ochoa for board president last month. Ochoa served on the school board from 2007 to 2016 before rejoining the board last year. She asked Superintendent Gisela Saenz to provide meeting packets to members of the public upon request. “It’s important for them to know because they elected us,” Ochoa said, adding that she wants parents to know about policies that affect their children and taxpayers to know how the district is spending their money. “I think knowing what’s happening in our board meetings is so imperative — that they get to know what’s going on.” For years, the district provided a copy of the school board meeting packet upon request. The meeting packet included supplemental information about items on the school board agenda, including draft copies of district policies, bids submitted by contractors and financial information. After the district restricted access to meeting packets in September 2017, anyone who wanted to review the documents was forced to submit a formal request under the Texas Public Information Act. The district refused to release the information and requested decisions from the Texas Attorney General’s Office, which took months to review the documents. That frequently fueled rumors and speculation about school board decisions. In June 2019, the school board agenda included an item titled: “Financing for

football fields and running tracks for 23 elementary schools, among other projects. Trustees approved the proposal with significant changes, which knocked the total cost down to roughly $20 million. None of the information about the proposal was available before the board meeting.

After she became school board president, Ochoa met with the superintendent to discuss goals and priorities. Ochoa said she wanted the school district to become more transparent and start releasing the meeting packets upon request. They also discussed ways the district could start posting documents online. The Texas Association of

School Boards offers a simple, cloud-based software system called BoardBook, which allows school districts to post meeting information online. More than 700 school districts use BoardBook, including Mission, Sharyland and McAllen. Ochoa said she wants the school district to review BoardBook and similar software.

Parents, teachers and taxpayers all play an important role in the decision-making process, Ochoa said, and should be informed about school board decisions. “Getting to know what’s going to take place at each meeting is so critical,” Ochoa said.

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October 18, 2019

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Former Border Patrol agent charged with threatening ICE agent By Dave Hendricks

A former U.S. Border Patrol agent found himself in court Tuesday, shackled and seated with the smugglers he once arrested. Wearing gray athletic pants and a black t-shirt emblazoned with the words “Shots Fired,” former Border Patrol Agent Daniel Polanco, 37, of Edinburg appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Juan F. Alanis on Tuesday afternoon. Polanco is accused of threatening a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent who helped federal prosecutors convict him on drug trafficking charges. “We plan to vigorously defend him on this new charge,” said attorney Marco De Luna of Mission, who represents Polanco. Polanco worked at the Falfurrias Border Patrol Station, where he became chief union representative, according to the website of National Border Patrol Council Local 3307. At some point, Polanco met Dimas De Leon, a drug trafficker who worked with a network of corrupt cops. The case against De Leon started in 2011, when the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration seized two shipments of cocaine. Lab tests showed the cocaine was “very low purity,” according to federal court records. The investigation re-

Daniel Polanco

(Courtesy of the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office.)

vealed that Carlos Oyervides, a federal informant, had orchestrated the drug busts — and stolen most of the cocaine. In 2013, though, Oyervides was kidnapped in Reynosa and the case went cold, according to federal court records. The Mexican military detained Oyervides in 2014. Homeland Security Investigations, a division of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, convinced the Mexican government to release him. Agents brought Oyervides back across the border and questioned him. Oyervides told them De Leon agreed to transport cocaine for drug traffickers. When he received the cocaine, however, De Leon would stage a fake drug bust with help from corrupt cops. Officers would seize bundles with trace amounts of cocaine or marijuana packed around bales of hay. The fake

drug busts allowed De Leon to steal cocaine and marijuana without attracting attention. Homeland Security Investigations eventually linked De Leon to law enforcement officers, including former Edcouch police Lt. Vicente Salinas, former Border Patrol Agent Eduardo Bazan, former Houston police Officer Marcos Esteban Carrion and Harris County Precinct 7 Deputy Constable Juan Ignacio Leal. They pleaded guilty. A jury convicted Polanco and Edinburg police Officer Hector Beltran after a twoweek trial in July. U.S. District Judge Keith P. Ellison allowed Polanco to remain on bond until sentencing. Polanco returned to court on Oct. 3, when the judge rejected his motion for a new trial. After the hearing, Polanco approached a federal agent and pointed at him. “This is gonna come back to you motherf---ers,” Polanco said, according to the criminal complaint, which described him as menacing. “You’ll see.” The comment prompted a new charge: threatening to assault a federal agent. Polanco is scheduled for sentencing in the drug trafficking case on Dec. 11. The U.S. Probation Office calculated the guideline range at 188 to 235 months in prison.

Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office deputy charged with drunken driving

Jesse Sandlin

(Courtesy of the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office.)

cords. After four years with the Alamo Police Department, he joined the Sheriff’s Office in July 2013. The Sheriff’s Office assigned Sandlin to the Criminal Investigations Division in September 2017. He also coordinated an off-duty security detail for local Walmart stores. After six years with the Sheriff’s Office, the drunken driving arrest could derail his career. The state trooper stopped Sandlin, who was driving a black Chrysler sedan, for failing to drive in a single lane on Expressway 83. Sandlin had slurred speech and smelled like alcohol, according to the criminal complaint against him,

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Moments before a state trooper arrested him at 2:31 a.m. Saturday, Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office Inv. Jesse Sandlin made a phone call. Sandlin, who was off-duty, had been drinking alcohol, according to the criminal complaint against him. He dialed the wrong number. “Jesse Sandlin called me thinking he was calling the chief deputy,” said Hidalgo County Sheriff J.E. “Eddie” Guerra, adding that Sandlin kept calling him chief. “I told him: ‘You got the sheriff. And he advised me that he was being arrested for DWI.’” Sandlin put the state trooper on the phone. “And I told the trooper: ‘Do your job,’” Guerra said. The state trooper arrested Sandlin, 33, of Alamo on suspicion of driving while intoxicated. Court records don’t list an attorney for Sandlin, who couldn’t be reached for comment. Sandlin graduated from the Lower Rio Grande Valley Development Council police academy in March 2008, according to Texas Commission on Law Enforcement re-

which added that Sandlin admitted to drinking two alcoholic beverages. The state trooper asked Sandlin to perform a standardized field sobriety test. He failed. Sandlin also failed a breath test, which showed a blood alcohol concentration of 0.116, according to the criminal complaint. The legal limit is 0.08. The state trooper arrested Sandlin. Driving while intoxicated is a Class B misdemeanor punishable by a maximum of 180 days in jail and a fine not to exceed $2,000. Jailers booked Sandlin at 3:18 a.m. and released him at 2:17 p.m. Saturday. “Although these type of incidents are difficult for any law enforcement agency, I remain committed to preserving the public’s confidence and trust in the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office,” Guerra said in a statement. “We will continue to investigate any and all allegations of employee misconduct, and I will take the necessary and appropriate actions to maintain accountability and transparency to you, the citizens we serve.”

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By Dave Hendricks

For the latest news and updates

from pg. 1

MOSTHISTORY

was $200,000 and now it’s $1.8 million and we’ve tripled in staff over the years. The county has been our partner the whole time I’ve been here.” 1989 When Rankin was hired by the museum, she had only been serving on the museum’s board of directors for three months. “I don’t know why they invited me to apply but they did. I had no experience,” Rankin said. Rankin had previously worked under state Sen. John Tower as his secretary before moving back to the Valley to help her veterinarian father in his office and in raising wild pigs. Rankin, who was politically active, had attended a Republican Convention in Corpus Christi where she met her husband-local radio talk show host Davis Rankin. She also served on the board of regents for Pan American University while serving at the museum board. “Even though I didn’t have museum experience, everything I’ve done in the past came together here,” Rankin said. “I’ve worked with politics and in this job you need to work with politicians so it’s better to know how it works. I majored in political science with a concentration in Latin American affairs and learned Spanish and with my business degree, I worked with my dad and knew how to work in a real world environment. I wasn’t a curator but I had a broad enough background and life experience that it helped me do this job and learn on the job.” Once she was hired, Rankin became responsible for the museum and its $200,000 budget and staff of seven. At the time, the museum encompassed only of the jail, the wing attached to it and a recently acquired abandoned H-E-B building that held exhibits and offices. “That was it, it was tiny,” Rankin said. “The courtyard we have now was a driveway that cars frequently used at the time. I didn’t come in with a plan to change, I wanted to learn how it was all done. But we had a great team of people and we’d always talk about how to improve stuff. We had a board who trusted us and we’d all work together.” Thanks to the support of employees and the board-who allowed Rankin to travel to museum conferences to learn how other museums are run, Rankin said she began to develop ideas on how to help the museum grow. She nurtured the newly created Heritage Association Program-where members of the public donate annually to the museum. Rankin says that the program currently boasts more than 200 members who donate at least $1,350 per year. Another highlight, Rankin said, was the multiple capital improvement projects to expand the museum. Among them was a $6.5 million project that created the museum’s two story grand lobby in 2003. The museum is undergoing a $2.8 million project to reno-

vate its historic jail. “Before those projects, we were just cramming things in small offices we had and were only displaying miniatures instead of our full collection,” Rankin said. “It was a motivation to do what we did to get our collection out of a flood prone building into a secure location.” Following construction of the lobby, the museum applied to become an accredited institution by the American Alliance of Museums, which was granted to the museum in 2011, Rankin said. “It means we meet the national standards of museums that they are expected to meet to be properly performing,” Rankin explained, noting that only three percent of museums in the country are accredited. “It means we are running the facilities appropriately and fulfilling our mission to preserve and present the borderland heritage of south Texas and northeastern Mexico.” MISSION For Rankin, the museum is an important institution because of the stories it can tell the public, and the stories it can inspire the public to tell. “We have a wonderful, rich history worth sharing and we hope that as families walk through the museum, they see something that will spark the telling of the story of their own family,” Rankin said. “That does happen. When I’ve given a tour and people see some of the stuff like the orno we have on display and the person I was with gasped and commented on how her grandmother had an orno just like that and started talking about her, sharing those stories. It’s definitely enabling us to collect more. If we’re not collecting it, it’s disappearing.” Those stories, Rankin said, are what can help develop a lifelong love of learning to visitors. “It makes us proud of who we are in the region we come from,” Rankin explained. “It’s very important for everyone, children and adults, to have a sense of place and belonging. If you know the stories of your place, you can fit yourself into those stories and have a sense of belonging. For the next several weeks, Rankin will oversee the completion of the jail renovation and other projects she said she’d like to have completed before she leaves. “After that I won’t know what I’ll do during my retirement, but I know I’ll look back very fondly on these last 30 years,” Rankin said. “I’ve made a lot of good friends and all the accomplishments here were done not by myself, but with a group of people who also put their heart and energy toward this. I’m very grateful for that. It’s been a great run. I walk into this museum and look around and it makes me proud. If we continue to expand lives and appreciation of who we are here, then we’re doing what we’re supposed to be doing.”

Tenant commissioner may be removed from La Joya Housing Authority board for failing to attend meetings By Dave Hendricks Tenant Commissioner Jose Armando Salinas may be removed from the La Joya Housing Authority board for failing to attend meetings. Jose Armando Salinas represents housing authority tenants on the five-member board. He hasn’t attended a board meeting since Sept. 4. “They haven’t contacted me about that,” Jose Armando Salinas said Tuesday, adding that he hadn’t always been properly informed about board meetings. Jose Armando Salinas didn’t attend board meetings on Sept. 25, when the board canceled the meeting for lack of quorum; Oct. 2, when the board approved a contract with Executive Director Ruben Villarreal; and Oct. 7, when the board approved a contract with attorney Javier Villalobos. “It is mandatory for Board Members to attend all meeting (sic) either regular or special, unless the member has a very good excuse,” according to the board bylaws, which the housing authority released under the Texas Public Information Act. “If a Board Member fails to attend two (2) meetings in a row, he/she is subject for dismissal from

the Board.” The bylaws don’t include a definition of “a very good excuse” or provide any examples. Who would determine whether or not an excuse is “very good” is similarly unclear. Mayor Jose A. “Fito” Salinas, who appoints the housing authority board members, may also remove a member of the board for inefficiency, neglect of duty or official misconduct. Before the mayor removes a member of the board, however, he must provide that board member with a copy of the charges and the opportunity to appear at a hearing. Mayor Salinas said he asked the housing authority for records that show whether or not Jose Armando Salinas failed to attend board meetings. “When they officially tell me” that he missed at least two meetings and violated the bylaws, Mayor Salinas said, “then I’ll take action.” Mayor Salinas appointed Jose Armando Salinas, 54, of La Joya to the housing authority board on Feb. 28. He was controversial from the start. Border Patrol arrested Jose Armando Salinas on Nov. 7, 1993, when agents at the

Falfurrias checkpoint caught him with about 45 kilograms of cocaine, according to documents released by the National Archives and Records Administration. U.S. District Judge Hayden W. Head Jr. sentenced him to 87 months in federal prison. Jose Armando Salinas initially aligned himself with housing authority board Chairman John Pena and board Vice Chairman Jorge Bazan. They split when Pena and Bazan supported Villarreal, the former mayor of Rio Grande City, for executive director. Jose Armando Salinas supported Claudia Alcazar, the interim executive director. After the decision, Jose Armando Salinas criticized them on Facebook and stopped attending board meetings. After the decision, Jose Armando Salinas criticized them on Facebook and stopped attending board meetings. “I agree with him on a lot of stuff,” Pena said. “But he needed to attend the meetings, no matter what happened.” Jose Armando Salinas also accused Bazan of attempting to remove him from the board because he owed more than $1,000 in rent. “I guess he forgot when I was on their side and helping them out, and they couldn’t make a meeting without me,” Jose Armando Salinas said. “They would come to my apartment and they would be here. They didn’t want to go to a meeting if I was not there with them. And now they’re acting like that against me.” Jose Armando Salinas paid $700 in past-due rent on Oct. 1 and another $440 on Oct. 2, according to housing authority records. “So I think that’s very unfair on their part,” Jose Armando Salinas said. “That shows me what kind of persons they are.” Bazan didn’t respond to a request for comment.

October 18, 2019

page 5

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State lawmakers congratulate Valley View ISD on winning 2 national ‘Blue Ribbon’ awards

Photo courtesy of Valley View ISD.

State lawmakers presented Valley View ISD with a proclamation Monday during an assembly at Valley View High School.

By Dave Hendricks State lawmakers presented the Valley View school district with a proclamation Monday, congratulating students and teachers on winning the prestigious National Blue Ribbon School award — again. The U.S. Department of Education announced in September that Wilbur E. Lucas Elementary School and Valley View North Elementary School won National Blue Ribbon School awards. Valley View Elementary School and Valley View South Elementary School won the award last year. “The blue ribbon, in my opinion, is the pinnacle of awards that a school can receive,” said state Rep. Terry Canales. “The fact that two of them are in Valley View is absolutely incredible. There’s not a greater testament to how hard the teachers, the parents and the administration are working.” Just 26 public schools and one private school in Texas received the award in 2019. Lucas Elementary received the Exemplary High Performing Schools award, which honors schools that perform well on standardized tests. North Elementa-

ry received the Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing Schools award, which honors schools that close achievement gaps between different student groups. Nearly 900 students attended Lucas Elementary and North Elementary in October 2018, when the district submitted award information to the Department of Education. More than 80% of students at both campuses are classified as English language learners and are eligible for free or reduced-price meals. State Rep. Sergio Muñoz Jr. and state Sen. Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa, who addressed students Monday afternoon during an assembly at Valley View High School, discussed the importance of public education. “I always talk about education being the best equalizer we have in our society. Education gives you knowledge. Knowledge gives you power. The power to succeed. Don’t forget that,” Hinojosa said. “I was once where you are. Working in the cotton fields. Picking tomatoes, onions. Washing dishes. But education gave me the opportunity to become a senator. To become a

lawyer.” Winning four National Blue Ribbon School awards is a credit to students, parents and teachers, said Superintendent Rolando Ramirez. “Here at Valley View, not one but four of our campuses are recognized as blue ribbon campuses,” Ramirez said. “That’s half of the campuses that we have. It’s all due to the hard work of our students and staff. Our community working together with the district. And everybody doing their part.” Elodia R. Chapa Elementary School in Mission, which is part of the La Joya Independent School District; Emma Vera Elementary School in Roma, which is part of the Roma Independent School District; Hidalgo Park Elementary School in Pharr, which is part of the Hidalgo Independent School District; Hilda C. Escobar/ Alicia C. Rios Elementary School in Mission, which is part of the Mission Consolidated Independent School District; Sam Houston Elementary School in McAllen, which is part of the McAllen Independent School District; and IDEA Quest College Preparatory in Edinburg, which is part of IDEA Public Schools, also won National Blue Ribbon School awards. No other school district in Hidalgo County, though, won two. “Think about that. Here in Texas, there are thousands of schools. Thousands. Only 26 in the whole state were recognized,” Hinojosa said, referring to the 26 public schools that received the award. “And you are one of them.”

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La Joya I.S.D. is pleased to announce the upcoming vendor training session to be held on

Nov. 13 at 2:00 p.m. Denny’s 116 S. Shary Rd. Mission, TX 78572

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This session will include: • District purchasing guidelines and requirements • Overview of the District’s electronic procurement system Interested vendors should register using this registration link:

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All Cigna products and services are provided exclusively by or through operating subsidiaries of Cigna Corporation. The Cigna name, logos, and other Cigna marks are owned by Cigna Intellectual Property, Inc. For accommodations of persons with special needs at meetings call 1-855-308-6217 (TTY 711). Cigna complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. Cigna cumple con las leyes federales de derechos civiles aplicables y no discrimina por motivos de raza, color, nacionalidad, edad, discapacidad o sexo. English: ATTENTION: If you speak English, language assistance services, free of charge, are available to you. Call 1-888-284-0268 (TTY 711). Spanish: ATENCIÓN: Si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-888-284-0268 (TTY 711). Chinese: 注意：如果您使用繁體中文，您可以免費獲得語言援助服務。請致電 1-888-284-0268 (TTY 711). You must reside in the plan service area. Cigna is contracted with Medicare for PDP plans, HMO and PPO plans in select states, and with select State Medicaid programs. Enrollment in Cigna depends on contract renewal. Free guide without the obligation to enroll. © 2019 Cigna 936494 Y0036_20_78190_M

SPORTSweek

Luciano Guerra

September 21, 2018

Sports Editor

www.ptrgv.com/sports

October 18, 2019

page 6

THE

BIG7

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

SCHOOLS

THIS WEEK’S GAMES - WEEK #7 La Joya

COYOTES

Friday 7:30 pm

Juarez-Lincoln

HUSKIES

Mission

EAGLES

Friday 7:30 pm

district championship and/or playoff destinies. So it goes without saying that with only four weeks left in the regular season, these five teams all have a lot to play for. What about the 1-2 La Joya Coyotes and the 0-3 Juarez-Lincoln Huskies, you may ask. Don’t they have something to play for as well? Yes they do. And while these two teams may top spot. In addition, of the and the Sharyland Rattlers By Luciano Guerra be playing for district three Big 7 teams with un- are still very much in the not titles, they still have plendefeated district records, the hunt for possible district Seven weeks into the 2019 ty of reasons to take to the high school football season, Pioneer Diamondbacks and championships. As a matter gridiron and play hard from the Mission Veterans Patriots of fact, if either or both of five of the seven teams from here on out. And while pride the Mission, Sharyland and are in sole possession of first these teams win out, they is one of those reasons, it place, while the third, the will be assured of at the very La Joya school districts, the certainly is not the only one. Big 7, are either leading their Mission Eagles, are in a two- least a share of the district ti- That’s because while these way tie for first place. tle. Therefore what it comes respective district races or have gotten off to With one district loss down to is that these five two teams are within one game of the starts, neither one has each, the Palmview Lobos teams all control their own slow been mathematically eliminated from the playoff race yet. As a matter of fact, the Coyotes are just one game behind the McAllen Memorial Mustangs and the PSJA Bears who are currently tied for third place in District 306A so they certainly have a lot to play for. So while the Coyotes are still alive in the playoff hunt, La Joya head football coach Reuben Farias is not even thinking about his teams’ playoff chances. Instead he is focused on a much more immediate matter, his teams’ head-to-head matchup against the Huskies at La Joya ISD Pack Stadium tonight. “When we play our sister schools, records don’t matProgress Times photo by Luciano Guerra. ter,” said Farias. “It’s going La Joya senior quarterback Carlos Valero hands the ball off to senior running to be a physical game and back Eddie Villarreal during the first quarter of the Coyotes’ 23-0 loss at the it’s going to be an emotionhands of the Sharyland Rattlers earlier this season on Sept. 13, 2019.

Coyotes and Huskies set to battle

OFFENSE

DEFENSE

SPECIAL TEAMS

Friday 7:30 pm

al game. Also, I believe it’s their (Huskies) homecoming game so they’re going to be playing to win; especially after losing a tough one to Mission. So it’s not so much a matter of them not having a good year, they’ve just been on the short end of some tough games.” “They’ve got some explosive kids that are pretty good so if we’re not ready, we’re going to have a tough time,” added Farias. “That’s one thing I tell the boys, that they’ve got to be ready to play no matter what. We’re going to get their A game so we better be able to match that intensity and we have to be ready to execute what we’re trying to do.” With the 3-0 Mission Eagles and the 3-0 Nikki Rowe Warriors atop the district standings and with the 2-1 McAllen Memorial Mustangs and the 2-1 PSJA Bears tied for third, the Coyotes really need a win tonight to even up their record at 2-2 as they prepare to play PSJA North, Mission and Nikki Rowe in the weeks to come. When asked what it’s going to take for the Coyotes to finish strong, Farias said, “Offensively we’ve got to be able to convert every time we’re in the red zone, play offense flawlessly, take care of the football, maintain long drives to make the game slower and control the clock. Defensively we’ve got to avoid giving up big plays and we’ve got to try to get as many three-and-outs as we can get. As for our special teams, we need to improve.

Sharyland

RATTLERS

That’s an area where we need to get a little bit better and while we have been getting better, we need to do so week-in-and-week-out.” Last year the Coyotes defeated the Huskies by a score of 20-0. Besides this game, and the Pioneer Diamondbacks at Sharyland Rattlers game, which is the Progress Times game of the week, the only other game involving Big 7 teams on tonight’s schedule is the Mission Eagles at the PSJA North Raiders. The Eagles barely escaped with a victory against the Juarez-Lincoln Huskies last week as the two teams combined for 61 points in the first half and zero points in the second half. As a result, the halftime score of 31-30 in favor of the Eagles was also the final score. If the Eagles want to guarantee themselves of continuing to have at least a share of the District 30-6A lead going into Week 9, they will have to take care of business against the Raiders. Otherwise they could find themselves in second place or possibly in a three or four way tie for first. Seeing as how the Eagles fell to the Raiders by a score of 41-31 last year, Coach Koy Detmer and his squad should be well motivated to turn the tables on the Raiders tonight and have a happy bus ride home to Mission with a 4-0 district record afterwards. Both of these games are scheduled to kick off at 7:30 pm this evening.

MISSION EAGLES

JUAREZ-LINCOLN HUSKIES

#44 Alejandro Valladares #64 Ezequiel Garcia

D-Backs

RAIDERS

Big 7 football round-up

#4 Josh Briones

S. Pioneer

PSJA North

#12 Steve Villarreal

#29 Luis Balderas

#14 Rene Rodriguez

OFFENSE

DEFENSE

SPECIAL TEAMS

Political ad paid by candidate.

LA JOYA COYOTES

#27 Eddie Villarreal

#23 Sal Carmona

#18 Oswaldo Gonzalez

DEFENSE

SPECIAL TEAMS

Go Coyotes, Lobos & Huskies!

SHARYLAND PIONEER DIAMONDBACKS

#16 Evan Maldonado OFFENSE

#52 Eric Torrres

#7 Ryan Bulthuis

DEFENSE

SPECIAL TEAMS

Good Luck To All Sharyland Teams! Justin Felkner D.D.S.

Timothy W. Brann D.D.S.

Richard A. Young D.D.S.

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October 18, 2019

page 7

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Snakeskin Classic: What’s at stake By John Hamann More than bragging rights are at stake when the Sharyland Rattlers host the Sharyland Pioneer Diamondbacks tonight at Richard Thompson Stadium in the sixth edition of the Snakeskin Classic. Some sports rivalries have implications beyond the right to say your team won and, in some cases, the right to keep saying it for a year until the two meet again. Depending on the sport, rival schools often play each other twice a year. If the two are from different UIL districts the outcome of the game has no impact on the post season fortunes of either team. Then there are the ones like tonight’s game. A once a year, late season district match-up between sister schools that besides the aforementioned bragging rights could have district championship implications, playoff qualifying implications and seeding implications for the postseason all rolled into one. Throw in a little past history of a similar game from say, last year, and you have the makings for a Friday night of football that should not disappoint. Last year’s game was indeed a classic. Both teams came into it undefeated in district play, giving the winner an inside track at the district title and that coveted #1 playoff seeding. What unfolded was a back and forth

affair, one of those where it seemed like whomever had the ball last would win. That turned out to be the Rattlers, who kicked a field goal on the game’s last play to secure the 38-37 win. Sharyland went on to win all of their remaining district games and claim the UIL District 16-5A Div. II title. The setting for tonight’s game isn’t much different from 2018. Pioneer currently sits on top of the district standings with a 2-0 record after wins over Mercedes (51-25) and Valley View (35-8). Overall the Diamondbacks have won five straight to stand 5-1 on the season. The only blemish on that record has been a one point loss against Harlingen to open the season. The Rattlers too, started district play with two straight victories, defeating Laredo Cigarroa (42-17) and Roma (43-3). Last week, however, they found themselves on the opposite side of a late game winning field goal when Edcouch-Elsa kicked one to secure a 36-34 win. Overall, Sharyland is 4-3 on the year. That game put the district standings into a bit of a log jam going into this week’s games. While Pioneer is the only team undefeated in the league, three others (Sharyland, Edcouch-Elsa, and Roma) are right behind them with 2-1 marks. Both coaches know the importance of a win tonight and what will be needed to get it. “This could be the best

team we’ve faced all year Valdivia for the Rattlers. cant number of carries so far given up 158. Both units are and it’s probably the best Besides the two signal in 2019. Kevin Chavez, Rob- good at taking the ball away team Pioneer has ever field- callers, both teams utilize a ert Mancha, Andres Bonilla from their opponents. Sharyed,” said Sharyland coach number of different players and Damian Pruneda are all land has recorded a total of Ron Adame. to keep defenses on their averaging over 4 yards per 17 takeaways while Pioneer Adame went on to men- toes. For the Diamondbacks, carry. has 15 on the season. tion the importance of win- Tristan Castillo has over 500 Daniel Pena is the team’s And if it comes down to a ning the battles within the total yards from scrimmage leading receiver with 23 field goal again, both teams game like turnovers and third as both a runner and receiver. catches and over 400 yards have kickers capable of andowns, and being able to Gavin De La Garza has al- receiving. Chavez’s 14 swering the call. Pioneer has play with emotion while con- most 600 yards receiving on catches have netted close to been using Oliver Olivares trolling it at the same time. the season, while Luke Pa- 300 yards. and the Rattlers have called Adame summed up what dilla, Allen Davila and Lavar The Rattlers have the on Kali Nguma for their conwas needed pretty simply. “It Lindo are all over 300 yards. higher ranked defensive unit versions. will take our best effort.” The Rattlers spread the of the two, currently second Kickoff is scheduled for Pioneer coach Tom Lee ball around too, mainly via in the district in yardage 7:30 pm at Richard Thompstressed the importance of the run. Besides the threat given up. The Rattlers have son Stadium. The Rattlers excelling in all three phases brought on by Valdivia, there surrendered 142 points on are the home team. of the game. are four others with a signifi- the season while Pioneer has “We have to match their intensity but (at the same time) not make it any bigger than it has to be,” said Lee. “It’s an opportunity to get to 3-0 and to keep progressing.” If you are at tonight’s game; pay attention. Both the Rattlers and Diamondbacks can light up a scoreboard. If you miss a play you might miss a score. The Diamondbacks currently lead the district in total offense, averaging close to 500 yards and a mind boggling 48 points per game. The Rattlers average 28 points per game but have increased that to just under 40 points a game in their three district contests. Pioneer prefers passing the ball, while the Rattlers have demonstrated a more balanced attack. Both teams rely on the Progress Times photo by Luciano Guerra. play of their junior quarterbacks. Eddie Lee Marburger Sharyland senior running back Damian Pruneda looks for an opening in the leads Pioneer in both passing line to run through during the third quarter of the Rattlers’ 23-0 non-district and rushing as does Benji win over the La Joya Coyotes on Sept. 13, 2019.

CORRECTION:

Player of the Week for the Mission Eagles week 5 was #5 Justin Soto Defense

WEEK 6 SHARYLAND RATTLERS

Good Luck #11 Kevin Chavez

#42 Gabriel Martinez

#25 Cory Mayo

OFFENSE

DEFENSE

SPECIAL TEAMS

To All Big 7 Teams!

Political ad paid by candidate.

Go Diamondbacks & Rattlers!

Thank you Sharyland ISD School Board for Supporting our Athletes!

MISSION VETERANS PATRIOTS

#24 Danny Cantu

#52 Sergio Farias

#25 Mike Gonzalez

OFFENSE

DEFENSE

SPECIAL TEAMS

HAVE A GREAT SEASON! SUPPORTS THE BIG 7 TEAMS

2019 Football Scoreboard Last Week’s Games Week 6 Juarez-Lincoln

HUSKIES Valleyview

TIGERS

30 8

34 REDSKINS 0 BULLDOGS 7 Sharyland

RATTLERS

Mission

EAGLES

Sharyland Piooner

Edcouch Elsa

Donna High

McAllen High

D-BACKS

Y. JACKETS

Mission Veterans

PATRIOTS La Joya

COYOTES

36 21 14

Season 5-1 District 3-0

Season 3-3 District 1-2

V Season 5-1 District 5-0

Season 5-1

Season 4-3

Season 4-2

Season 1-5

District 2-0

District 4-1

District 2-1

District 0-3

SPONSORED BY:

BEST OF LUCK TO ALL BIG 7 TEAMS! R X Alberto Vela, R. Ph.

Political ad paid by candidate.

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PHARMACY & MEDICAL EQUIPMENT

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entertainment Coming Attractions

October 18 • Flamenco guitarist Daniel Navarro Cruz, better known as Niño de Pura, is the next artist in the Distinguished Artist Series with the UTRGV Patron of the Arts program. He is one of the most prize-winning guitarists in Spain and will perform at 7 p.m. at the UTRGV Performing Arts Complex in Edinburg, 1201 W. University Dr. Admission is $10 and $5 for seniors and students. For tickets, go to patron.utrgv.edu. For special accommodations, call 956-665-3881. October 18-20 • South Texas College (STC) Theatre presents William Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew, adapted by Robert De Hoyos, at 7 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and 2 p.m. on Sunday. It takes place at STC’s Cooper Center Black Box Studio Theatre, 3201 W. Pecan Blvd. in McAllen. General admission tickets are $5 and can be purchased one hour before the performance at the box office, or in advance online at southtexascollege.edu/ go/theatre. For information or for group rates, call 956-872-2301 or email drodri72@southtexascollege.edu or jrodriguez@southtexascollege.edu. October 19 • Saxophonist Dr. Josiah Boornazian will perform in the UTRGV Patron of the Arts Faculty Artist Series at 7 p.m. at the UTRGV Performing Arts Complex, 1201 W. University Dr. in Edinburg. Admission is free. He is an assistant professor of music at UTRGV where he teaches applied saxophone and jazz studies. For special accommodations, call 956-665-3881. October 22 • The UTRGV Master Chorale and University Choir will perform their fall concert “Adventure is Out There!” at 7 p.m. at the TSC Performing Arts Center, 901 Taylor Rd. in Brownsville. General admission is $5. The repertoire includes Bach’s Cantata 150 Nach dir, Herr, verlanget mich, Buxtehude’s cantata Jesu Meine Freude, and music from Russia, France, and the United States on a musical journey with composers Samuel Barber, Sergei Rachmaninoff, Debra Scroggins, Nathaniel Dett, and more. For special accommodations, call 956-882-7025. October 24 • The first Foodpreneur Fest will be held at 6 p.m. at the Mission Event Center, 200 N. Shary Rd. A fundraiser for Mission’s Food Pantry, the festival will honor a local food entrepreneur each year. Festival attendees

will sample delicacies from restaurants and food vendors, and a cooking competition offers a $1,000 grand prize. Purchase tickets online at Eventbrite. For more information and to register for the competition, contact Cristina Garza at 956-585-0040 or cgarza@ missionedc.com. October 24 • The Tempus Quartet performs at 7 p.m. at the TSC Performing Arts Center, 90 Taylor Ave., Brownsville. Admission is free. Tempus Quartet is a musical group made up of performers from the state of Tamaulipas, Mexico, who perform covers of popular music from different genres. For special accommodations, call 956-882-7025. October 25 • Jim Decker, trombonist, will be featured in the UTRGV Patron of the Arts guest artist series. The Concert begins at 7 p.m. and will be held at the TSC Performing Arts Center, 90 Taylor Ave., Brownsville. Admission is free. Decker will perform the British Trombone Concerti accompanied by Dr. Brendan Kinsella on piano. Decker is currently the professor of trombone at Texas Tech, and was the principal trombonist of the Honolulu Symphony for many years. For special accommodations, call 956-882-7025. • The next Valley Symphony Orchestra concert, James Bond Meets Brahms, will be held at the McAllen Performing Arts Center, 801 Convention Center Blvd. in McAllen from 8 to 10 p.m. For tickets and information, go to valleyorchestra.org or call 956661-1615. October 25-26 • The UTRGV Department of Theatre presents The Little Big-Top Circus of Illusions in the Albert L. Jeffers Theater on the campus at 1201 W. University Dr. in Edinburg. Tickets are $5 general admission. The performance is a “showcase of thrilling introductions, grand entrances, and quick exits -- all served up with brilliant costumes, exquisite backdrops, fun-filled dances, ingenious pantomime acts and beautiful songs that will touch your heart” according to the Theatre department. October 26 • The UTRGV Student Ensemble Series presents Octubafest at the UTRGV Performing Arts Complex, 1201 W. University Dr. in Edinburg. The concert begins at 3 p.m. and will feature music performed by students in the UTRGV Tuba/Euphonium studio in both small and large ensemble settings. Admission is free. For special accommodations, call 956-665-3881. (For more Coming Attractions, go to ptrgv.com)

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IMAS preps for Halloween Bash, Dia de los Muertos

McALLEN – The International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) is hosting two of its biggest programs of the year kicking off the fall cultural programming with the annual Halloween Bash and Dia de los Muertos Festival. New on exhibit during this time is a special exhibition of 17 works of art representing the spirit of the Day of the Dead, Altar de Muertos. Celebrate All Hallows’ Eve at the annual Halloween Bash on Saturday, Oct. 26, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with a pumpkin carving contest, planetarium presentations, optical Halloween art, skull touch table, ghost scavenger hunt, and guided gallery tours. Visitors are encouraged to come in costume and participate in the costume parades at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. This year’s event will feature a display of artistically carved pumpkins. The public can enter the contest and the most creative design, voted on by visitors, will win an IMAS family membership. The deadline to enter the contest is Oct. 18. More information can be found online at theimasonline.org or by calling 956-681-2800. New and on exhibit from Oct. 20 through Nov. 17 is Altar de Muertos, an exhibition of art representing the spirit of the Day of the Dead in conjunction with the annual display of community altars. The exhibit includes the work of 17 artists, each one representing one of the altar offerings. The cempasúchil flower, the sugar skull and the candle among others, from the artist’s particular vision, honoring death and life take this beautiful tradition of the Day of the Dead altars beyond our frontiers. Altar de Muertos is presented by the Asociación de la Plástica de Garza García A. C. An opening reception

will be held on Oct. 20 from 2 to 4 p.m. On the Day of the Dead, Saturday, Nov. 2, from 10 a.m. to 5 a.m., the museum will come alive with a colorful celebration where visitors can paint calavera art, view community altars on display, learn about skeletons, and make a traditional sugar skull ($3 per participant), and explore IMAS galleries. A vendor market will be on site with handmade goods and traditional pieces, rebozos, a face painter, and food. Dr. Servando Z. Hinojosa, faculty member of the Department of Anthropology at UTRGV, presents a special lecture “Mexico, Bones, and Life” at 2 p.m. For many years Mexico has been associated with skulls and skeletal images. These make up a large part of its visual and archaeological inventory, but why have past peoples used these symbols, and how have their meanings endured? This presentation will walk through some of the skeletal pages of Mexico’s past and address these questions. Entertainment at the Dia de los Muertos Festival includes Chulita Vinyl Club at 11 a.m., a Catrina contest at 12 p.m., and UTRGV Ballet Folklorico at 3 p.m. along with a performance by Mujer RGV, story times, dancing skeleton craft, games including lotería and giant chess. Those interested in participating in the Catrina contest can download an entry form on the website at theimasonline.org/welcome/ cultural-series/ and must submit it by Nov. 1 at 5 p.m. Both events are included in the general admission. IMAS is located at 1900 W. Nolana in McAllen. Call 956-681-2800 for more information.

UTRGV Patron series opens with ‘Niño de Pura’ performance

EDINBURG – The UTRGV School of Music Patron of the Arts Series continues to bring world-class performances to the Rio Grande Valley. On Saturday, Oct. 19, the UTRGV Patron of the Arts kicks off its Distinguished Artists Series with Daniel Navarro Cruz, better known as Niño de Pura, a renowned guitarist from Spain. The performance begins at 7 p.m. He has appeared on prestigious stages around the world – London (Royal Albert Hall), France, Germany, Belgium, Mexico, Chile, and Spain – and will be on stage at the Performing Arts Center on the UTRGV Edinburg campus, 1201 W. University Dr., with an entire Flamenco troupe that includes dancers, singers, and percussion.

Navarro Cruz “Niño de Pura”

“This is a world-class flamenco troupe that I had the pleasure of meeting and enjoying in Spain. This will be a great show,” said Dr. Kurt Martinez, director of the UTRGV School of Music. Niño de Pura was born in Sevilla in 1966 and started playing guitar professionally accompanying his brother,

flamenco dancer Jose Joaquin. From a very early age, Niño began to enter contests, and became one of the most prize-winning guitarists in Spain. In the mid-1980s, he joined the international circuit, with his first concert tour around South America. At the same time, he accompanied top-rated flamenco singers and dancers, both in concert and in recording studios. From the late ’80s to early ’90s, he recorded on all the Spanish television stations and toured Japan with the show Estrellas de la Bienal. Tickets are available at patron.utrgv.edu or at the door for $10 general admission and $5 senior and student admission.

‘Juanito Gonzalez’ comes to life at PCT PHARR – The Life and Times of Juanito Gonzalez, an original one-man show by Pedro Garcia, comes to life at the Pharr Community Center, 213 W. Newcombe Ave. in Pharr, In 1997 while living and learning in Albuquerque, N.M., Hidalgo native Garcia worked in the local community theater, when he was asked by a literacy center to create and perform a short children’s story based on Día de los Muertos, and to have it talk about the importance of reading and writing. Garcia asked the organizer about a monologue since he was an actor. That is how The Life and Times of Juanito Gonzalez was born. “At first I wrote a 20-minute monologue about an old man who had recently passed but on Nov. 2 he comes back

In costume, Pedro Garcia will perform in a one-man, one-act play, The Life & Times of Juanito Gonzalez, on Nov. 2. to his tombstone at the cemetery as a skeleton (a fun costume). He arrives to straighten out the place because his

relatives are coming to visit him, but before everyone gets there on this special day, and with help from the magical sky, he becomes young again and he tells his story from the time he was a kid. He shares about learning all the important things in life,” said Garcia. What became a 50-minute play is geared for family members of all ages as the character takes the audience throughout his life. The show runs Saturday, Nov. 2, at 3 and 7 p.m. Tickets will be sold at the door, starting one hour before curtain for $7 general admission and $5 ages 13 and under. The play is also available for tours to local schools between Oct. 25 and Nov. 25. For more information, call 956-239-0412 or 956-6559308.

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NEWS | SPORTS | ENTERTAINMENT | PHOTOS

Uncovering history at Palo Alto Battlefield

BROWNSVILLE – The public is invited to join in adventures in archeology at Palo Alto Battlefield National Historic Park on Saturday, Oc. 19, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the 13th Annual Rio Grande Delta Archeology Fair. Numerous demonstrations and activities are planned to introduce the public to archeology, local archeological resources, and the value of resource preservation. Visitors can learn about the methods and tools archeologists use and find out about current research. The event gives an opportunity to discover the

Palo Alto archaeology in action

Rio Grande’s connections to prehistory as well as battlefield archeology and historic archeology. Individuals can dig for buried treasure and talk to living historians or re-enactors who have studied the soldiers of the Mexican-American war talking about their “life” in the army. Members of indigenous tribes will teach how to throw a spear using an atlatl. Palo Alto Battlefield National Historic Park is located north of the intersection of FM 1847 (Paredes Line Road) and FM 511, between Brownsville and Los Fresnos. For more information, call 956-541-2785.

Runners making 2,671-mile monarch awareness run

PHARR – On Sunday, Oct. 20, a team of Monarch Ultra runners will jog into Pharr arriving at St. George Orthodox Church, 704 W. Sam Houston, at 5:30 p.m. The family-friendly event is open to the public and free of charge. The 47-day adventure is taking the team of runners through a diversity of landscapes along the same distance of 2,671 miles flown by the Monarch butterflies. Started in Petersborough, Ontario, Canada, Pharr is the last stop the team will make before heading across the

border to finish in the Sierra Madre Mountains in Mexico. The Monarch Ultra runners and support team will then join an educational fair in the St. George parking lot. The fair is open to the public beginning at 5 p.m. A lineup of local organizations will set up booths at the fair. Sponsored by South Texas Border Chapter of Texas Master Naturalist, organizations represented include U.S. Fish and Wildlife’s Urban Ranger program from Santa Ana Wildlife Refuge; Valley Texas Master Naturalist Chapters; Deep South

Texas Master Gardeners program of Hidalgo County; and Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. Also providing informational booths will be the National Butterfly Center in Mission; Edinburg Wetland World Birding Center; PSJA School System’s Pollinator Garden Program and students from various disciplines; Hugh Ramsey Nature Park of Harlingen; local Milkweed and Monarch Organization; Quinta Mazatlán; and the National Wildlife Federation. More about the Monarch

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Ultra team is available at themonarchultra.com/aboutus.html.

EVENTS

CALENDAR

October 19 – The Cpl. Jose “Speedy” Espericueta Jr. 5K Run/ Walk begins at 8 a.m. at the Mission Event Center. Entry fee is $25 for the 5K and $20 for the 1K Memorial Walk. Register at soleracing.org or Valley Running Company. All profits will benefit The Speedy Memorial Foundation for scholarships to children of law enforcement personnel across the Rio Grande Valley. October 24 – The Mission EDC and Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce present a Foodpreneur Food Fest from 6 to 8 p.m. at 200 N. Shary Rd., Mission. October 25-27 – The National Butterfly Center, 3333 Butterfly Park Dr. in Mission presents Haunted Trails 2019 from 7 p.m. to midnight each day. October 26 – St. Paul’s 56th Annual Fall Festival will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 300 W. Pecan Blvd. (corner of 2nd and Pecan), McAllen. The family friendly event includes a Trunk or Treat, rides, games, costume contest, cake walk, food, vendors, and more. The public is invited, and admission is free. Call 956-682-2345 for more information. October 26 – Dia de los Muertos: Noche de Calacas will be hosted from 4 to 9 p.m. by the Mission Historical Museum, 900 Doherty Ave, Mission. (For more Events, go to ptrgv.com.)

Public input wanted on LANWR public access proposal LOS FRESNOS – Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge (LANWR) is accepting comments through Oct. 31 for proposal to expand public access opportunities to the Bahia Grande and Laguna Atascosa units of the LANWR. The proposal seeks to implement new trail access for hiking and biking at Bahia Grande, near HWY 48, with trail distances ranging from one to seven miles. The Laguna Atascosa unit is currently open to public access but improvement of amenities is being considered. The current proposal includes additional basic facilities and improvements such as compost restrooms, rest areas, additional hiking trails, wildlife viewing structures and improved parking lots. The proposal would also facilitate ease of access to visitors participating in refuge led programs such as fishing clinics, wildlife tours, educational programs and interpretation. There will be discussion for future plans for the activities that require additional planning and public comment on fishing, kayak/canoe access, improved biking routes and visitor contact stations. This proposal does not affect current access to San Martin Lake through the Zapata Boat Ramp. Public comment will be accepted by email or through written comment. Send comments to Christopher_ Quezada@fws.gov or to La-

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October 18, 2019

October 18, 2019 from pg. 1

PALMHURST NNO

Sergio Muñoz Jr. who highlighted the bond between the community and law enforcement agencies. “It’s a reinforcement that cities and counties can have these events on a yearly basis to remind the community that the work of keeping the community safe goes hand in hand,” Muñoz Jr. said. “It’s why all the agencies are here, to make sure everyone feels safe in their own community to work as partners. If members of the public want to be part of keeping the community safe, they need to have that relationship and the confidence to bring that forward.” Hidalgo County Sheriff

from pg. 1

Notices

Texas State Trooper Moises Sanchez, who died as a result of injuries he sustained from a gunshot to the head while responding to a traffic incident in Edinburg last April. Previously, Mission police Cpl. Jose Luis “Speedy” Espericueta was killed in the line of duty last summer. These events, Guerra said, highlight the need for National Night Out. “Anytime a law enforcement officer is killed, not only does the law enforcement agency feel the pain, but also the community because they lost a member,” Guerra said. “As members of the same community, events like these also strengthen law

enforcement because just by seeing everyone out here, we know we have the community’s trust and support.” Among the attendees was Alton resident Edith Castillo who arrived at the event with her two toddlers. She said she was driving by the church and saw the carnival and thought it would be fun to attend with her kids. ‘I didn’t even know it was for a police related event but I’m glad it’s happening,” Castillo said. “Building a strong relationship between us and the police is a great message. I’d definitely come again.”

rounded by Love group, was at the event with her young daughter Sofia. She has an aunt who is a breast cancer survivor, a family member in California who is a survivor and a friend who has stage four cancer, so the cause is close to her. “I’m here to support the people I love,” Mottu said. “It’s also so she [Sofia] can be aware. Awareness and educating yourself is the key, I think.” Walks benefiting the Making Strides cause help the American Cancer Society fund breast cancer research, educate people about early detection and mammograms in order to reduce risk and offer support services for patients in the RGV who need it most. Before the run started, Chapa spoke about the

services offered by ACS. “We have free wigs at our office, we offer free headscarves and turbans, we offer free rides to treatment,” Chapa said. “We have our 1-800 number for emotional support - if somebody needs to go to M.D. Anderson in Houston, we offer free lodging. We have a lot of free services, and because we have events such as this, we are able to provide the community with this.” MRMC Business Development and Marketing Manager Paola Lopez thanked the people and sponsors who were participating in the 10th annual event. “This couldn’t be any better,” Lopez said, noting that their partnership with ACS has been great. “Thank you all so much for support-

ing this cause, breast cancer awareness.” Four women were Portraits of Hope this year: Kathy Vallez, Rosalinda Mendez, Maria De Jesus Garcia and Lulu Rizalde. The survivors all had the opportunity to tell their stories and provide hope to all those in attendance. Mendez, an almost seven-year cancer survivor, said that she was saved by early detection. “It was found due to getting my mammogram,” Mendez said. “So my message here to you all, not just the ladies but the men as well, is to get your annual mammograms, because that is how they found mine - it wasn’t even a lump. Don’t lose faith, keep the hope, and always pray.”

Maria Castillo ALTON – Maria Concepcion Castillo, 82, passed away on Sunday, Oct. 13, 2019, at Mission Regional Medical Center. Ezequiel Contreras MISSION – Ezequiel Contreras, 91, passed away on Sunday, Oct. 13, 2019, at Mission Regional Medical Center. June Cote MISSION – June Margaret Cote, 82, passed away on Monday, Oct. 14, 2019, at Pax Villa Hospice in McAllen.

Jose De Leon MISSION – Jose Maria De Leon, 61, passed away on Wednesday, Oct. 9, 2019, at Mission Regional Medical Center. Letus Dodd MISSION – Letus Fay Dodd, 87, passed away on Wednesday, Oct. 9, 2019, at Doctor’s Hospital in Edinburg. Gloria Flores PEÑITAS – Gloria Flores, 72, passed away on Wednesday, Oct. 9, 2019, at Mission Regional Medical Center. Lydia Gonzalez ALTON – Lydia S. Gonza-

lez, 72, passed away on Saturday, Oct. 12, 2019, at her home in Alton. James Krommes MISSION – James W. Krommes, 93, passed away on Wednesday, Oct. 9, 2019, at Pax Villa Hospice in McAllen. Jose Landeros ALTON – Jose Landeros, 81, passed away on Sunday, Oct. 11, 2019, at his home in Alton. Arturo Lopez MISSION – Arturo D. Lopez, 63, passed away on Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019 at

“J.E.” Eddie Guerra was at the event and stressed the need of a working relationship between the public and law enforcement officers. “It builds trust and helps put a face to the badge,” Guerra said. “We cannot do our job in law enforcement without our community. They’re our biggest partner in law enforcement. If they don’t have that trust, then they may not report a crime that they’ve seen and because of that, we won’t be able to solve that crime or prevent it from happening again. “ Tuesday’s National Night Out was held nearly two months after the death of

MISSION PINK

in their lives.” Last year over 3,000 participants travelled from across the state and Mexico to Mission Regional, and this year’s event was planning on an even larger turnout. A cold front hit the Valley the evening before, so it was a cool morning when runners started Saturday morning. Humans weren’t the only supporters during the walk/run - the event was pet-friendly, and dogs of all breeds and sizes wore pink as they participated. According to a press release from the entities, the Mission Pink event “aims to raise awareness on the importance of breast self-examination for the early detection of breast cancer.” Mottu, who was participating in support of the Sur-

Altagracia Barrera MISSION – Altagracia A. Barrera, 82, passed away on Tuesday, Oct. 8, 2019 at her home in Mission. Betty Beddow MISSION – Betty Jane Beddow, 73, passed away on Monday, Oct. 15, 2019, at Mission Regional Medical Center. Caryl Burgess MISSION – Caryl Burgess, 93, passed away on Friday, Oct. 11, 2019, at Waterford Gardens in Mission.

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MISSION MAYOR

the message but didn’t respond. “I got it and, basically, put the phone back on my side there and really didn’t pay much attention to it,” Dominguez said. “And, of course, I didn’t want to be making phone calls to the station: ‘Who was this Gabriel Salinas?’ And so forth.” Officers from across the Rio Grande Valley and a contingent from the city of Mission, including the mayor, had arrived to support Joaquin Espericueta. Dominguez had prepared a speech for halftime. He needed to rehearse. “That morning, my main concentration was that football game for Joaquin Espericueta,” Dominguez said. “Not that I didn’t pay any attention to it, but my focus was on something else that morning.” Dominguez also received calls from Mission Civil Service Director Jesse Lerma, who is a municipal judge in Sullivan City. “And I’m thinking it was after Dr. O’caña because when he mentioned the name, I figured ‘Oh, it’s the same guy that Dr. O’caña texted me about,’” Dominguez said, recalling the conversation. Lerma called again that afternoon. “The second time Jesse called me was late in the day,” Dominguez said, adding that he couldn’t re-

member when, exactly, they talked. “And he called me: ‘Hey, the family is calling me. Is this guy going to get arraigned today?’ And I told him: ‘Yeah, he’s about to get arraigned or going to get arraigned in a little while.’” The calls and text message, though, apparently didn’t help. Salinas spent 10 hours in jail before the arraignment. “In your world, based on the text, based on the phone calls, to you it might seem out of the ordinary,” Dominguez said. “To me, it’s a constant. Especially in my position.” The Arrest At about 7:39 a.m. on Sept. 21, the Mission Police Department dispatched officers to the 1400 block of Viejo Lane. Officers found Gabriel Salinas drunk and shirtless, according to body camera video released under the Public Information Act. His wife said Salinas had slapped her across the face during an argument. Salinas denied any wrongdoing. “I’m going to tell you this, bro,” Salinas told the police officers, according to body camera video. “I’m a councilman. I know exactly what goes on. What you guys do. And you guys have already failed to take pictures.” After he complained

Doctor’s Hospital. Gloria Palacios MISSION – Gloria Palacios, 79, passed away on Monday, Oct. 14, 2019, at her home. Mariana Ramirez MISSION-Mariana Ramirez, 67, passed away on Wednesday, Oct. 9, 2019, at Rio Grande Regional Hospital in McAllen. Elvia Reyes MISSION – Elvia Reyes, 55, passed away on Sunday, Oct. 13, 2019, at Mission Regional Medical Center. Manuela Reyes MISSION – Manuela Reyes,

86, passed away on Sunday, Oct. 13, 2019, at her home in Mission. Irene Salinas SULLIVAN CITY – Irene Salinas, 58, passed away on Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019, at her home in Sullivan City. Irene Robinson MISSION – Irene Robinson, 86, passed away on Saturday, Oct. 12, 2019, at her home. Maria Velasquez ALTON – Maria Martha Velasquez, 71, passed away on Tuesday, Oct. 8, 2019, at Doctor’s Hospital in Edinburg.

See MISSION MAYOR Pg. 13

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October 18, 2019

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PUBLIC NOTICE

ORDINANCE NO. 4839

The Mission City Council will hold a Regular Meeting on Monday, October 28, 2019 at 5:30 p.m. at the Mission City Hall Council Chambers, 1201 East 8th Street, Mission, Texas in order to consider the following: Rezoning: A 0.33 acres of land out of a 9.53 acre tract out of the West 13.335 acre of the South 19.55 acres of Lot 29-8, West Addition to Sharyland Subdivision from (R-1) Single Family Residential to (R-1T) Townhouse Residential; and Rezoning: A 0.58 of one acre tract of land out of Lot 25-9, West Addition to Sharyland Subdivision from (AO-I) Agricultural Open Interim to (C-2) Neighborhood Commercial If a zoning is amended during the public hearing, it shall be pursuant to the City of Mission’s Amendatory Zone Policy Statement. Anyone interested is invited to attend. Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MISSION, TEXAS GRANTING A REZONING FOR LOTS 1, 2, 4, & 5, PADRON SUBDIVISION, FROM AO-I (AGRICULTURAL OPEN INTERIM) TO C-3 (GENERAL COMMERCIAL)

ORDINANCE NO. 4850 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 4833 PROVIDING FOR THE BASE SALARIES FOR CIVIL SERVICE EMPLOYEES OF THE MISSION POLICE DEPARTMENT; PROVIDING FOR EMPLOYEE INCENTIVE PAY FOR MEMBERS OF THE MISSION POLICE DEPARTMENT SUCH INCENTIVE PAY BEING LONGEVITY PAY, SENIORITY PAY, CERTIFICATION PAY, EDUCATIONAL PAY, ASSIGNMENT PAY, AND CLOTHING ALLOWANCE; ESTABLISHING THE RATE OF PAY FOR SUCH INCENTIVE PAYS, ESTABLISHING THE CRITERIA FOR QUALIFICATIONS FOR SUCH PAY; PROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY, AND ORDAINING OTHER PROVISIONS RELATING TO THE SUBJECT MATTER THEREFORE READ, CONSIDERED, AND PASSED THIS THE 14TH DAY OF OCTOBER, 2019. Dr. Armando O’caña, Mayor Attest: Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

READ, CONSIDERED, AND PASSED THIS THE 14TH DAY OF OCTOBER, 2019. Dr. Armando O’caña, Mayor Attest: Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

ORDINANCE NO. 4844 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MISSION, TEXAS GRANTING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT RENEWAL SALE AND ON-SITE CONSUMPTION OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES – JALL’S SPORTS BAR & GRILL, 1810 W. GRIFFIN PARKWAY, SUITES B, C, & D, LOT 7 & 8, INSPIRATION POINT SUBDIVISION, PH I READ, CONSIDERED, AND PASSED THIS THE 14TH DAY OF OCTOBER, 2019. Dr. Armando O’caña, Mayor Attest: Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

ORDINANCE NO. 4847 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MISSION, TEXAS GRANTING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT RENEWAL FOR THE SALE & ON-SITE CONSUMPTION OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES – LOS PESCADORES RESTAURANT, 601 E. 9TH STREET, STE. A, LOTS 4-8, BLOCK 165, MISSION ORIGINAL TOWNSITE READ, CONSIDERED, AND PASSED THIS THE 14TH DAY OF OCTOBER, 2019. Dr. Armando O’caña, Mayor Attest: Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

SHERIFF’S SALE REAL PROPERTY NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN That by virtue of a certain Writ of Execution / Order of Sale Cause No. C-0093-19-F issued out of the Honorable 332nd District Court of Hidalgo County, Texas on the 28th day of August 2019 and, whereas on June 14, 2019, TUSCANY VILLAGE HOMEOWNER’S ASSOCIATION, INC., Plaintiff(s) recovered a judgment against MARIA SOLEDAD CARRENO LINARES, Defendant(s) for the sum of Four Thousand Five Hundred Seven Dollars Sixty Eight Cents ($4,507.68); (actual damages of One Thousand Two Hundred Nineteen Dollars Sixty Cents ($1,219.60) as a personal obligation, Seven Hundred Thirty Nine Dollars Sixty Cents ($739.60) of which is secured by Plaintiff’s lien; attorney’s fees in the amount of Two Thousand Five Hundred Two Dollars Fifty Cents ($2,502.50) court cost of Three Hundred Fifteen Dollars Eighty Seven Cents ($315.87); service fees of One Hundred Ten Dollars No Cents ($110.00); attorney’s fees in the amount of Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars No Cents ($750.00)for the projected cost of handling the foreclosure; and for post judgment interest from June 14, 2019, through the anticipated foreclosure date of November 5, 2019, in the amount of Eighty Nine Dollars Seventy One Cents ($89.71); together with the Sheriff’s fees, under Judgment in favor of TUSCANY VILLAGE HOMEOWNER’S ASSOCIATION, INC., and placed in my hands for service on September 10, 2019, I, J.E. “Eddie” Guerra, as Sheriff of Hidalgo County, Texas, did on the 17th day of September 2019, levy on certain Real Property, situated in Hidalgo County, Texas, described as follows, to-wit: 3808 Roosevelt Avenue, Alton, Texas 78573, as more fully described as Lot 95, Tuscany Village Subdivision, Unit-2, Hidalgo County, Texas And levied upon as the property of MARIA SOLEDAD CARRENO LINARES and that on the first Tuesday in the month of November 2019, the same being the 5th day of said month, at the Hidalgo County Administrative Building, 2802 South Business Highway 281, Edinburg, Texas, 78539 hereby designated by the Hidalgo County Commissioners Court, between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. by virtue of said levy and said Writ of Execution / Order of sale, I will sell said above real estate at public venue, for cash, to the highest bidder, as the property of MARIA SOLEDAD CARRENO LINARES, and in compliance with the law, I give this notice by publication, in the English Language, once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks immediately proceeding said day of sale, in The Progress Times a Newspaper in Hidalgo County, Texas. Witness my hand on this 23rd day of September 2019

ORDINANCE NO. 4840 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MISSION, TEXAS GRANTING A REZONING A 2.0 ACRE, MORE OR LESSM OUT OF THE NORTH 10 ACRES OF THE SOUTH 20 ACRES OUT OF LOT 183, JOHN H. SHARY SUBDIVISION, FROM AO-I (AGRICULTURAL OPEN INTERIM) TO R-1T (TOWNHOUSE RESIDENTIAL) READ, CONSIDERED, AND PASSED THIS THE 14TH DAY OF OCTOBER, 2019. Dr. Armando O’caña, Mayor Attest: Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

ORDINANCE NO. 4842 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MISSION, TEXAS GRANTING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT TO PLACE A 12 X 26 PORTABLE BUILDING – OFFICE USE, 801 S. CONWAY BOULEVARD, LOT 1, BIG LAKE SUBDIVISION READ, CONSIDERED, AND PASSED THIS THE 14TH DAY OF OCTOBER, 2019. Dr. Armando O’caña, Mayor Attest: Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

ORDINANCE NO. 4845 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MISSION, TEXAS GRANTING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT RENEWAL FOR THE SALE & ON-SITE CONSUMPTION OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES – PIZZA HUT #33917, 2217 E. GRIFFIN PARKWAY, LOT 1, RGV PIZZA HUT SUBDIVISION READ, CONSIDERED, AND PASSED THIS THE 14TH DAY OF OCTOBER, 2019. Dr. Armando O’caña, Mayor Attest: Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

ORDINANCE NO. 4848 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING/ UPDATING THE FUTURE LAND USE MAP OF THE CITY OF MISSION, TEXAS WITHIN THE BOUNDARIES: CITY WIDE; PROVIDING FOR A CUMULATIVE PROVISION; AND PROVIDING FOR A SEVERABILITY PROVISION READ, CONSIDERED, AND PASSED THIS THE 14TH DAY OF OCTOBER, 2019. Dr. Armando O’caña, Mayor Attest: Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

ORDINANCE NO. 4841 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MISSION, TEXAS GRANTING A REZONING OF LOT 1, BIG LAKE SUBDIVISION, FROM AO-P (AGRICULTURAL OPEN PERMANENT) TO I-1 (LIGHT INDUSTRIAL) READ, CONSIDERED, AND PASSED THIS THE 14TH DAY OF OCTOBER, 2019. Dr. Armando O’caña, Mayor Attest: Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

ORDINANCE NO. 4843 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MISSION, TEXAS GRANTING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT TO KEEP A PORTABLE BUILDING – AUTO SALES OFFICE USE, 1418 E. BUSINESS HIGHWAY 83, LOT 1, LEMON TREE PLAZA SUBDIVISION READ, CONSIDERED, AND PASSED THIS THE 14TH DAY OF OCTOBER, 2019. Dr. Armando O’caña, Mayor Attest: Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

ORDINANCE NO. 4846 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MISSION, TEXAS GRANTING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT RENEWAL FOR THE SALE & ON-SITE CONSUMPTION OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES – BRICK FIRE PIZZA, 704 E. GRIFFIN PARKWAY, STE. 130, 1.25 ACRE TRACT OUT OF LOT 24-8, WEST ADDITION TO SHARYLAND SUBDIVISION READ, CONSIDERED, AND PASSED THIS THE 14TH DAY OF OCTOBER, 2019. Dr. Armando O’caña, Mayor Attest: Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

ORDINANCE NO. 4849 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ZONING ORDINANCE NO. 1128, AS AMENDED, ADDING OTHER ‘DUPLEX’ AS A CONDITONAL USE UNDER THE SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL ZONING DISTRICT; AND PROVIDING A CODIFICATION CLAUSE; AND PROVIDING A PUBLICATION DATE READ, CONSIDERED, AND PASSED THIS THE 14TH DAY OF OCTOBER, 2019. Dr. Armando O’caña, Mayor Attest: Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

THE STATE OF TEXAS NOTICE TO THE DEFENDANT: “You have been sued. You may employ an attorney. If you or your attorney do (does) not file a written answer with the clerk who issued to this citation by 10:00 A.M. on the Monday next after the expiration of forty-two (42) days after the date of issuance of this citation, a default Judgment may be taken against you.” TO: DAVID LAMBERT and LORI LAMBERT, DEFENDANTS GREETING: You are hereby commanded to appear by filing a written answer to the Plaintiff’s Petition at or before 10:00 o’clock a.m. of the first Monday after the expiration of 42 days from the date of issuance of this citation, the same being Monday, October 4, 2019 at or before 10:00 o’clock a.m. before the 370th District Court of Hidalgo County, at the Courthouse in Edinburg, Texas. Said Plaintiff’s Petition was filed on July 10, 2019 in this case, numbered C-294719-G on the docket of said court. The names of the parties to the cause are as follows”WINTER GREEN ESTATES RECREATION, INC., Plaintiff and DAVID LAMBERT and LORI LAMBERT, Defendants. A brief statement of the nature of the suit is as follows, to wit: The suit seeks to have judgment against the Defendants and to foreclose on the lien held by the Plaintiff for unpaid and delinquent assessments assessed against the property that belongs to or may belong to the Defendants, being Lot 18, Block G, WINTER GREEN ESTATES SUBDIVISION, an addition to the City of Mission, Hidalgo County, Texas locally known as 1421 Santa Maria Drive, Mission, Texas 78572 (the “Property”), by virtue of that certain Warranty Deed date June 12, 2011, recorded as Document Number 2010-2082159 of the official land records of Hidalgo County, Texas (the “Deed”). If this citation is not served within ninety days after the date of its issuance, it shall be returned unserved. The officer executing this writ shall promptly serve the same according to requirements of law, and the mandates thereof, and make due return as the law directs. ISSUED AND GIVEN UNDER MY HAND and the SEAL of said Court, at office in Edinburg, Hidalgo County, Texas. ISSUED: AUGUST 23, 2019 LAURA HINOJOSA, DISTRICT CLERK HIDALGO COUNTY, TEXAS 100 N. CLOSNER BLVD #E EDINBURG, TX 78539

October 18, 2019 from pg. 11

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page 13

MISSION MAYOR

about the lack of photographs, an officer suggested that Salinas speak with his lieutenant. “Where are you a councilman at?” the lieutenant asked. “I represent Sullivan City,” Salinas said. “I’ve been a school board member. I’ve been around.” Salinas attempted to explain what happened, telling officers he picked up a friend who had been drinking. “She called me. I went to go pick her up. She couldn’t drive,” Salinas said. “I went to go pick her up because I was fine.” The lieutenant interrupted. “Well, I mean, let me tell you something,” the lieutenant said. “You’re not fine. You’re intoxicated.” The lieutenant told Salinas that officers simply responded to a domestic disturbance and wanted to know what happened. “Now, obviously, there’s history here,” the lieutenant said. “We checked that. There’s been a history of domestic abuse here.” Officers arrested Salinas on suspicion of assault causing bodily injury to a family

member, a Class A misdemeanor. ‘Expedite His Arraignment’ About 90 minutes later, O’caña sent a text message to Dominguez, asking whether or not he could expedite the arraignment. “I did not know the details,” O’caña said. “I just wanted the arraignment to be done in a timely manner.” O’caña said he didn’t remember who contacted him about Salinas. People frequently call him when a friend or family member is arrested, O’caña said, adding that he passes along the messages as appropriate. “I want for arraignments to be done in a timely manner,” O’caña said, adding that everyone deserved an expedited arraignment. O’caña said he wasn’t attempting to pressure the police chief. Dominguez said he didn’t think the message was inappropriate. “As you can tell by what he wrote, he’s not telling me: ‘Hey, get him out of jail,’” Dominguez said. “He’s saying: ‘Can you expedite his arraignment?’”

Calls and text messages about people arrested by police aren’t anything unusual, Dominguez said. “Just this weekend at 3 o’clock in the morning this lady calls me: ‘Hey, my son is in jail.’ And so forth. I’m half asleep and trying to decipher who the lady is. She gives me her name. And I kind of remember the name,” Dominguez said. “And I tell her: ‘Look, ma’am. I don’t know exactly why your son is in jail but I’m not going to do anything or check into it until the morning. Call me at about 9 o’clock.’” Dominguez said he doesn’t interfere in police investigations. “If you need to get arraigned, you’re going to get arraigned,” Dominguez said. “Now, I might expedite it a little bit more for you to make sure that we get you to the county jail as soon as possible, but other than that you’re still going to go to the county jail.” Lerma, the civil service director, said he didn’t remember who contacted him about Salinas. When that person called, Lerma said he asked Domin-

guez for information but didn’t request any special treatment. “As far as to tell him what to do?” Lerma said. “Nothing like that.” The Arraignment Officers booked Salinas at 8:35 a.m., according to police department records. He wasn’t arraigned until after 6 p.m. “Bottom line: he needed to sober up,” Dominguez said. “And that’s why he was taken before the judge so late.” By that point, his wife had signed a “Drop Charges” form, according to police department records. Municipal Judge Mauro Reyna III reviewed the criminal complaint against Salinas and decided the allegation didn’t support a Class A misdemeanor charge. Reyna allowed Salinas to plead no contest to a Class C misdemeanor, the equivalent of a traffic ticket. If he isn’t arrested within 90 days and pays a $271 fine, the charge will be dismissed.

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THE STATE OF TEXAS NOTICE TO THE DEFENDANT: “You have been sued. You may employ an attorney. If you or your attorney do (does) not file a written answer with the clerk who issued to this citation by 10:00 A.M. on the Monday next after the expiration of forty-two (42) days after the date of issuance of this citation and Petition, a default Judgment may be taken against you.” TO: DOROTHY ANN RODRIGUEZ, DEFENDANT(S) GREETINGS: You are hereby commanded to appear by filing a written answer to the Plaintiff’s Original Petition at or before 10:00 o’clock a.m. of the Monday next after the expiration of forty-two (42) days after the date of issuance of this citation the same being on this the 1st day of October, 2019 before the Honorable Letty Lopez, 389th District Court of Hidalgo County, Texas at the Courthouse of said county in Edinburg, Texas. Said PLAINTIFF’S ORIGINAL PETITION WITH ATTACHED EXHIBIT A filed in said court on the 2nd day of May, 2019 in this case numbered C-1954-19-H on the docket of said court and styled PENNYMAC LOAN SERVICE, LLC VS. CARLOS RODRIGUEZ, JR. DOROTHY ANN RODRIGUEZ, AND E-LOAN, INC. Said petition was filed in said court by Attorney ANTHONY R. SASSI, 701 N. POST OAK RD., STE 205, HOUSTON, TX 77024. A brief nature of the suit is as follows: PLAINTIFF(S) PRAY FOR DAMAGES IN AN AMOUNT TO BE PROVEN AT TRIAL, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO ACTUAL DAMAGES, DIRECT AND CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, ATTORNEY FEES AND TAXABLE COURT COSTS. The officer executing this writ shall promptly serve the same according to requirements of law, and the mandates thereof, and make due return as the law directs. ISSUED AND GIVEN UNDER MY HAND AND SEAL of said Court at Edinburg, Texas on this the 1st day of October, 2019.

LAURA HINOJOSA, DISTRICT CLERK 100 N. CLOSNER BLVD EDINBURG, TEXAS HIDALGO COUNTY, TEXAS

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THE STATE OF TEXAS NOTICE TO THE DEFENDANT: “You have been sued. You may employ an attorney. If you or your attorney do (does) not file a written answer with the clerk who issued to this citation by 10:00 A.M. on the Monday next after the expiration of forty-two (42) days after the date of issuance of this citation and Petition, a default Judgment may be taken against you.” TO: CARLOS RODRIGUEZ, JR., DEFENDANT(S) GREETINGS: You are hereby commanded to appear by filing a written answer to the Plaintiff’s Original Petition at or before 10:00 o’clock a.m. of the Monday next after the expiration of forty-two (42) days after the date of issuance of this citation the same being on this the 1st day of October, 2019 before the Honorable Letty Lopez, 389th District Court of Hidalgo County, Texas at the Courthouse of said county in Edinburg, Texas. Said PLAINTIFF’S ORIGINAL PETITION WITH ATTACHED EXHIBIT A filed in said court on the 2nd day of May, 2019 in this case numbered C-1954-19-H on the docket of said court and styled PENNYMAC LOAN SERVICE, LLC VS. CARLOS RODRIGUEZ, JR. DOROTHY ANN RODRIGUEZ, AND E-LOAN, INC. Said petition was filed in said court by Attorney ANTHONY R. SASSI, 701 N. POST OAK RD., STE 205, HOUSTON, TX 77024. A brief nature of the suit is as follows: PLAINTIFF(S) PRAY FOR DAMAGES IN AN AMOUNT TO BE PROVEN AT TRIAL, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO ACTUAL DAMAGES, DIRECT AND CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, ATTORNEY FEES AND TAXABLE COURT COSTS. The officer executing this writ shall promptly serve the same according to requirements of law, and the mandates thereof, and make due return as the law directs. ISSUED AND GIVEN UNDER MY HAND AND SEAL of said Court at Edinburg, Texas on this the 1st day of October, 2019.

LAURA HINOJOSA, DISTRICT CLERK 100 N. CLOSNER BLVD EDINBURG, TEXAS HIDALGO COUNTY, TEXAS

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October 18, 2019

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Local entities gather to discuss opioid presence in South Texas By Jamie Treviño Despite its characterization as more of an issue in northern states, the opioid epidemic has spread throughout the country, and the data in South Texas is lacking. Last Thurs. Oct. 10 the Hidalgo County Health and Human Services Department along with the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley School of Medicine and Tropical Texas Behavioral Health (TTBH) held the 2019 South Texas Targeted Opioid Project (STTOP) conference. Funded by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Area Health Education Center (AHEC) Program, the two-forum conference was

held at the TTBH Conference and Training Center. Hidalgo County Health and Human Services Department Chief Administrative Officer Eddie Olivarez led the morning forum, which was specifically geared toward elected state legislative representatives, local elected and non-elected officials, leaders, law enforcement, emergency management and medical and pharmacological leaders in South Texas. “This is extremely important for us all to work together on,” Olivarez said. “The reality is, today we need to demonstrate an effort to try and get some collaboration, some support, some understanding in dealing with the national opioid crisis, along with state issues and South

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Texas issues.” The first forum included several leading officials, and Olivarez said they were to focus on how to get the data that is needed to draw funding and support for the opioid crisis in this area. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, opioids are drugs like “heroin, synthetic opioids such as fentanyl and pain relievers available legally by prescription, such as oxycodone (OxyContin®), hydrocodone (Vicodin®), codeine, morphine, and many others.” The county said that the opioid epidemic “has presented many challenges including our understanding of how to advance pain management, how to improve and target overdose reversing drugs and how to improve the quality and availability of prevention, treatment and recovery services for opioid use disorder (OUD).” Data collection for the rate of opioid abuse in the RGV is not comprehensive, and in order to address it the forum was held to coordinate some organization. “I know a lot of people say opiates are not an issue for Hidalgo, Cameron or Willacy County,” Olivarez said. “I beg to differ, I think it’s a hidden area, an area that has been undercover for a long time, and not until recently has it come out.” Considered a comorbid disorder, abuse of opioids often occurs with other illnesses and medical issues, making it more difficult to track. When TTBH Chief Executive Officer Terry Crocker spoke during the forum, he said that Tropical Texas Behavioral Health will continue to put resources into the treatment of substance abuse disorders. “Historically, for many years that wasn’t Tropical’s

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focus,” Crocker said. “A few years back we took a very orchestrated move to start growing what we’re doing.” Crocker noted that Brando Morales is serving as their director of Substance Abuse Services, and they are concentrating efforts in order to start the path toward data collection and treatment options. Dr. John Ronnau, the Senior Associate Dean for Community Health Partnerships and the Program Director for the Area Health Education Centers with the UTRGV School of Medicine, mentioned the efforts being made to educate people about the opioid crisis. “In the past year or so, we’ve been producing a series of workshops up and down our three counties: Cameron, Hidalgo and Starr, on four different topics,” Ronnau said. “One is recognition and treatment of opioid use disorders and other substance abuse disorders, we also do a workshop on screening, brief intervention and referral treatment, the third on behavioral health integration and the fourth on the effective use of technology on treatment.” Attendees that morning were from the UTRGV School of Medicine, the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office, the District Attorney’s Office, the Harlingen Police Department, Mission Police Department, the Texas Department of Public Safety, the Department of State Health Services, District 39 Texas State Representative Armando Martinez and Hidalgo County Forensic Pathologist Dr. Norma Jean Farley. Farley spoke about what she sees when it comes to toxicology reports. “One of the issues here is we don’t have a medical examiner system, and we’re

probably not going to get one for a long time, they just upped the requirements to a two million person population,” Farley said. “So as long as you don’t have that, you’re not getting all your cases of overdoses.” Farley said that if the case is an overdose and there are medications around, there are a few judges in the county that will not send the body to the forensic pathologists. “In fact, one of the cases I’m getting this afternoon went straight to the funeral home and was thought to be an overdose, and they were just going to sign the death certificate [as such],” Farley said. “And they were going to let it go.” The county, along with TTBH and UTRGV, are concerned with the lack of data collection on opioid use in the RGV and South Texas. Olivarez stated that it was important to collect information about this particular substance abuse because of the implications medically, the nature of how many opioids are being found by law enforcement, our proximity to the U.S./Mexico border and funding. Data collection also becomes tricky when dealing with how overdoses occur and what causes them - Farley said that people have the capability to develop a tolerance, and TTBH Chief Medical Officer Dr. Daniel Gutierrez said a combination of opioids and benzodiazepines (such as medications for anxiety, epileptic seizures and spasms) can be fatal. “They [those experiencing this illness] have an issue of dependency,” Gutierrez said. “We have found that one-third of the people that die of opioid overdose were also on benzodiazepines, so we’ve been looking at that closely.”

Dr. Adrian Sandoval, a clinical pharmacy specialist and assistant professor at the UTRGV medical school, spoke on the tolerance people can develop for opioids. “We have receptors in our brain that become less sensitive, or be downregulated or removed as we expose it to more medication,” Sandoval said. “From a community standpoint, for first responders, it would be difficult to determine a person’s tolerance, you wouldn’t necessarily know that - every person is different.” Crocker said there is a state-wide and nationwide focus on this issue, so money has been made available for it, but TTBH does not see any data to highlight if there is a problem or how big it is. “If we are able to get that information, there are moneys we are able to get and bring down to help drive services for this,” Crocker said. “There are different organizations that have different pieces of the data that’s not getting shared across the board.” The Hidalgo County Health Department, TTBH and UTRGV are aiming to get a grasp on solid data collection for state and federal funding that can be brought down and used to fight opioid abuse in South Texas. The second part of the conference, held in the afternoon, featured law enforcement, first responders, clinical service providers, Outreach, Screening, Assessment and Referral (OSAR), medical staff and residents, clinicians, counselors and therapists to look at developing a strategic plan for intervention, education and awareness.