Friday, October 25, 2019_PT ISSUE by Progress Times

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Progress times Vol. 48 - #10

Friday, October 25, 2019

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INSIDE

www.ptrgv.com • LA JOYA

CITY OF PALMVIEW

Former La Joya city administrator pleads guilty to federal theft charge By Dave Hendricks

We have coverage of the city of Palmview, how they have addressed sewer frustrations and mold concerns at a fire department building.

Progress Times photo by Dee Rendon.

Helen Bentsen Reinhardt, the 2019 First Lady of Mission, holds her award and poses with two of her sons.

PG. 2

FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS

Progress Times photo by Jamie Treviño.

Mission City Manager Randy Perez (left) was named the Man of the Year award during the 2019 GMCC annual awards gala last Thurs. Oct. 17, 2019.

• MISSION

Mission celebrates honorees during GMCC Awards Gala By Jamie Treviño Attendees were treated to a night at the circus as Mission celebrated the businesses and people that keep the community engaged. Last week, the Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce hosted an annual awards gala that honored businesses, leaders and citizens who have made an impact on the area. Held at the Mission Event Center Thursday evening, the theme of “A Circus Extravaganza” featured plenty of color and conversation from all those who attended.

GAME OF THE WEEK The Mission High School Eagles are gearing up to play the Nikki Rowe Warriors this week. See the sports section for more.

PG. 7

Brenda Enriquez, the president for the chamber, said the event was about the businesses that keep Mission growing. “I have an amazing board and team who genuinely care about the prosperity, the business development and advocacy for the community we serve,” Enriquez said, thanking the premiere investors for the GMCC. “This a wonderful event for all of us to enjoy.” Albert Chapa, the immediate past chairman for the chamber board of directors, spoke on the increased membership and the accomplishments of the Greater

See GMCC GALA Pg. 13

• PROGRESO

PIGSKIN JUBILEE

Accused of civil rights violations, former Progreso police officer appears in federal court

This week we are featuring the 2019 Pigskin Jubilee, which highlighted high school bands across the county.

PG. 13 INDEX

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

Mike Alaniz

(Photo courtesy of Mike Alaniz)

ment Tuesday afternoon. The city of La Joya purchased Lot 112 in the Palms-

See MIKE ALANIZ Pg. 11

• PEÑITAS

Construction starts on new Denny’s restaurant in Peñitas By Dave Hendricks

Denny’s may open a Peñitas location in March. Construction on the roughly 4,400-square-foot restaurant started Monday at the northwest corner of U.S. 83 and Liberty Boulevard. McAllen-based Bramble Restaurants Ltd. will own and operate the Denny’s. “Peñitas shows a lot of potential for growth,” said restaurateur David Bramble, who owns Denny’s locations in Harlingen, Weslaco, San Juan and Edinburg. “And the Valley seems to be growing

in that direction.” Bramble Restaurants opened an identical Denny’s in San Juan last month. The 4,411-square-foot restaurant in San Juan had an estimated cost of $750,000, according to information filed with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation in January. Denny’s credits the new restaurant design, which seats about 150 people, and a new menu with boosting same-store sales.

See PEÑITAS DENNY’S Pg. 11

MCISD educates students on bus safety and emergency protocol By Jamie Treviño

By Dave Hendricks A former Progreso police officer accused of sexually assaulting two men appeared before a federal judge Monday. Former Progreso police Officer Matthew Lee Sepulveda, 24, of San Juan made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Peter E. Ormsby on Monday morning. Sepulveda is accused of arresting two men, performing oral sex on them and releasing them without charges, according to federal court records. After an investigation by the FBI and the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office, federal prosecutors filed charges against Sepulveda on Oct. 17. “The charges allege Sepulveda violated the civil rights of two individuals while acting under his authority as a uniformed police officer,” according to a news release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern

• MISSION

Former La Joya City Administrator Mike Alaniz pleaded guilty Tuesday to a federal theft charge. Alaniz admitted to arranging for the city of La Joya to buy a piece of property — which he apparently owned — for an inflated price. “Administratively, I should have been more careful, your honor,” Alaniz said, according to an audio recording of the hearing released by the court clerk. His attorney, Rick Salinas of Mission, declined to com-

Matthew Sepulveda (Photo courtesy of the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office)

District of Texas. Sepulveda remained in custody Monday and couldn’t be reached for comment. His brother, who attended the initial appearance, declined to comment. The investigation started in June, when a 20-year-old Mercedes man contacted the Sheriff’s Office. He said a Progreso police officer wearing a nameplate

See FEDERAL COURT Pg. 5

This being National School Bus Safety week, students at MCISD are being prepped for any and all possible emergencies that can occur while on the road. A former mandate of the Department of Public Safety, annual bus safety trainings have been held in Mission to educate the student population on how to handle any incidents while riding a school bus. While it is no longer a requirement from the state, the Mission Consolidated Independent School District has continued the annual trainings since 2010. MCISD Transportation Director Carlos Lerma said that over time, students have been committing the tips and training to memory. “It’s all about the safety of our students,” Lerma said. “We felt that we should continue the training for the students.” Following the Alton Bus Crash 30 years ago that took

Progress Times photo by Jamie Treviño.

Bus Driver Arturo Martinez points out the exits to students from Marcell Elementary School during the bus safety training put on annually by the district. the lives of 21 junior and high school students, MCISD has taken school bus safety very seriously. Seniors attending the MCISD high schools today have been attending these trainings every year since second grade. “It becomes muscle memory, so if there is ever an event they know what to do,” Lerma said. “Whether the driver is active or inca-

pacitated, they learn how to handle the emergency breaks and two-way radio. It’s just an overall step of being proactive for student safety.” Meant to teach students about how they can save lives and prevent injuries during an emergency, the trainings provided to the students are conducted by a team of bus

See BUS SAFETY Pg. 4

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LA JOYA • PALMVIEW

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October 25, 2019

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Palmview hosts meeting to address frustration over sewer project By Dave Hendricks The city of Palmview invited a handful of residents to City Hall last week to address widespread frustration over the sewer project, which left Palmview with miles of unpaved streets. Residents, infuriated by endless delays and streets that require an off-road vehicle to navigate, didn’t hold back. “Let me be completely honest with you,” said Miriam Silva, a business coach who attended the meeting. “Here’s the thing: Right now, residents hate everybody that has to do with city of Palmview.” Construction on the Palmview sewer project started in March 2017. The Agua Special Utility District hired two contractors, Edinburg-based OG Construction and Mercedes-based L&G Construction, to install the sewer system. L&G Construction started work in March 2017, according to documents released by the utility district. OG Construction started work in September 2017. They each had 330 days to complete the project. More than two years later, neither L&G Construction nor OG Construction is finished. “Unfortunately, when we started the project we thought that the plans — the plans were stamped by the engineer and they were stamped October before we bid the project. Later on in the project, once we started it, we come to find out that the plans are actually over 12 years old,” said Omar Garcia, the owner of OG Construction. “And that even the soil report that we were provided was not a recent soil report. So we encountered some things along the way that have brought on different circumstances that we could never have imagined were going to happen.” Workers had problems

with groundwater, which delayed construction, and other obstacles that apparently weren’t present when the plans were completed. OG Construction also had problems with the utility district. “We are bonded. We are insured. We provide warranties. We do work all over the county. We’ve been doing this for years and years and years,” Omar Garcia said. “We have never had the situation we have with Agua.” The city of Palmview attempted to address concerns about unpaved streets by striking a deal with the utility district. Under the contract, workers originally planned to close streets, install sewer pipes and repave the part of the street they destroyed. Palmview agreed to repave the whole street after the contractor finished work. The arrangement, which the city hoped would reduce delays and leave residents with better streets, backfired spectacularly. Residents demanded to know when the city, which didn’t control how fast the contractors worked, would fix the streets. To answer that question, the City Council arranged a small, informal meeting on Oct. 18. City Councilman Joel Garcia, City Councilwoman Linda Sarabia, City Councilman Javier Ramirez, City Manager Michael Leo and City Attorney Eric Flores attended the meeting. They invited utility board Director Roger Hernandez of La Joya, who represents rural Hidalgo County residents, and Omar Garcia, the owner of OG Construction, who arrived with his attorney, Jonathan L. Almanza. Omar Garcia said before Palmview could pave the streets, the utility district needed to accept the work and provide OG Construction with a certificate of substantial completion.

“I’ve been trying to speed along the process and say: ‘Ok. Give me a specific certificate for this street, this street, this street,’” Omar Garcia said. “And I’ve been asking for them for a year. And I’ve gotten nothing.” Before he requests a certificate of substantial completion, the work is tested by an engineer, Omar Garcia said. After the test is completed, OG Construction, the engineer and the utility district are supposed to conduct a final walk-through together. At that point, the utility district either accepts the work or provides OG Construction with a written list of problems that must be fixed. “We have certificates from the engineer where it’s

been tested and it’s been approved. And they’re dated and they’re signed by the engineer, but they have not moved on that next step, which is certificate,” Omar Garcia said. “And the problem is that they keep saying: ‘Well, we’re going to give you one certificate, we’re not going to give you certificates for every road.’ And I said: ‘That doesn’t make any sense, you’ve got 30 miles of sewer line that we have to go and walk.’” Members of the City Council appeared stunned. “Have they given you a reason why they haven’t—” said City Councilman Joel Garcia. “No,” Omar Garcia said. “And not even a written answer.” City Councilman Javier

Ramirez suggested OG Construction demand a written answer. “If you can get me one, that would be fantastic,” Omar Garcia said. The explanation from OG Construction, however, didn’t appear to appease residents. Ruben Solis of Taco Express said the answer is too little, too late. “It’s affecting my business. And I feel like you guys didn’t notify us of the project. It just started all of the sudden. I lost a bunch of tenants. My business is down at least 50% or more,” Solis said. “And we’re seriously thinking about selling and just relocating to Edinburg, McAllen or somewhere else. Because it’s gotten that bad. You’re talking about a busi-

ness with 20-plus years here in Palmview.” Residents who attended the meeting criticized the utility district because Hernandez could only stay for about 40 minutes and General Manager Jose E. “Eddie” Saenz didn’t attend. In a written statement, the utility district said Palmview didn’t tell Saenz about the meeting until about an hour before it started. “The Contract between Agua SUD and OG does not contain language allowing OG to get substantial completion of parts of the Project. There is only one substantial completion and that is when all of OG’s work is complete and all deficiencies have been corrected,”

See SEWER PROJECT Pg. 5

Palmview shut down fire department building amid concerns about mold By Dave Hendricks Problems with mold forced the Palmview Fire Department to shut down Fire Station #1 in April. Six months later, the station — which is adjacent to City Hall — remains uninhabitable. When the city will either decontaminate or demolish the station remains unclear. “The City of Palmview takes matters such as these very seriously as the health and safety of City Personnel is our number one priority,” according to a statement released by City Attorney Eric Flores. “The City will continue to take any and all necessary steps to ensure our firefighters are safe so that we may continue to serve our residents with the utmost care. Additionally, the City of Palmview will continue their diligent efforts to secure additional funds to build a fire station our hardwork-

ing firefighters deserve.” Fire Chief Jerry Alaniz had concerns about Fire Station #1 as far back as June 2014, according to documents released under the Texas Public Information Act. “We are in need of replacing or repairing the roof at the fire station,” Alaniz wrote to then-Fire Marshal Severo Ochoa on June 6, 2014. “Every time it rains we are having to place buckets all over the station. Water damage is clearly visible throughout the station.” Alaniz asked Ochoa to discuss the problem with then-police Chief Chris Barrera. What, if anything, happened as a result of the memo remains unclear. When the Progress Times contacted Alaniz and City Manager Michael Leo on Wednesday, the city attorney responded with a written statement. Alaniz wrote another

memo to Ochoa in August 2015, asking him if Barrera or then-City Manager Ramon Segovia wanted to discuss the problem. “It is worse and worse every time it rains,” Alaniz wrote to Ochoa on Aug. 8, 2015. “If we don’t remedy this the problem will continue to get worse, and may be more expensive.” Concerns about the building became a crisis in February 2019, when firefighters signed a letter to Alaniz warning about potential health problems. “Recently firefighters have been having trouble sleeping with allergic reactions when dorming at the firehouse or just being inside the lobby area,” according to the letter, which is signed by three fire department captains. “Some firefighters had to start taking medication and other precautions to protect themselves.” The letter listed five ma-

jor concerns, including the leaky roof, which left marks on the ceiling; mold under the kitchen sink, in firefighter dorms, throughout the air conditioning system and in the captain’s office; plumbing problems in the kitchen and restroom; and pieces of the ceiling that had started falling. “Staff also has had the idea of relocating our central station until further notice for Dorming purposes to station number two,” according to the letter. “We would really appreciate if you would take that into consideration or to resolve the problem for the meantime for the wellbeing of our health.” The bottom of the letter is covered in signatures. “Upon receiving the letter, the City immediately began to strategize and formulate a

See MOLD Pg. 5

DÍA DE LOS MUERTOS RECUERDOS y OFRENDAS

SATURDAY, NOV. 2, 2019 | 4 P.M. - 10 P.M. 200 N CLOSNER BLVD | EDINBURG, TEXAS 78541 | 956.383.6911 | WWW.MOSTHISTORY.ORG/EVENTS Photograph by John Faulk, www.FronteraMedia.com

October 25, 2019

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August 16, 2019

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October 25, 2019

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First celebrities announced for McAllen’s holiday parade

By Jose De Leon III

With their annual upcoming parade set for a little over a month away, the city of McAllen began unveiling Wednesday the celebrity lineup for the event. Second-year Dallas Cowboys Receiver Michael Gallup and five-time Super Bowl Champion and former Dallas Cowboy Defensive End Charles Haley were announced as the first pair of celebrities who will be joining the 6th annual McAllen Holiday Parade on Saturday, Dec. 7. “When it comes to stars, there are no bigger stars in Texas than the Dallas Cowboys,” McAllen City Man-

ager Roy Rodriguez said, adding that players from the team have been the parade’s special guests for the last few years “We make every effort to bring a first rate roster of star athlete to appeal to families of every age. We will continue to do everything we can to ensure these quality celebrities and athletes keep coming to McAllen.” The announcement was made at a press conference Wednesday at the Bert Ogden Infiniti dealership, part of the Bert Ogden & Fiesta dealership which not only sponsors the parade, but also powers the parade as their vehicles drive the floats along the parade route. “I have a family and know

this creates awesome holiday memories,” Marsha Green, vice president of marketing at Bert Ogden said. “We want to see more people enjoy this. I do not think people are aware of the magnitude of it.” The city of McAllen also announced musical guests for Christmas in the Park, the free festival that runs the Friday and Saturday of the parade in Municipal Park, located next to the McAllen Veterans Memorial Stadium where the parade route begins. The Grammy-award winning Tejano group Siggno will be performing Friday, Dec. 6 from 5 p.m. through 11 p.m. and the Norteno

group Los Tigrillos will perform the following day from 12 p.m. through midnight. Christmas in the Park will feature food and art vendors as well as a carnival. The event, officials said, draws more than 100,000 spectators to McAllen. “Every year it has grown bigger and bigger and we are so excited to see people looking forward to it and it is exciting not only because of this vision, but because of the leadership in the city of McAllen,” McAllen Mayor Pro-Tem Veronica Whitacre said. “It’s a beautiful beginning to our Christmas season.” Rodriguez said that based on a study conducted by the

University of Texas - Rio Grande Valley, the parade has on average an economic impact of $13 million to the city. “When you have a couple 100,000 people in one location like we do along Bicentennial Boulevard every year, it’s obvious there’s people coming outside of McAllen. And they love it,” Rodriguez said. “Our initial objective was to create a parade like Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade in New York...so people don’t miss out on a parade that big because they can’t travel there. Our parade is of the same magnitudes of Macy’s.” The city will hold more press conferences within

the next few weeks as more celebrities sign up for the parade, Rodriguez said. To kick off the holiday season, the city of McAllen will also offer “Frio,” a winter wonderland display at the McAllen Convention Center that will run from Wednesday, Nov. 27 through Monday, Jan. 6 where attendees can play with real snow. “It’ll be unlike anything the city has ever seen,” Rodriguez said. Tickets to the annual holiday parade, which range from $10 to $35, can be purchased at the McAllen Convention Center box office or ticketmaster.com.

Magnifying the playing field

30 students with low vision receive assistive tech By Jamie Treviño For six-year-old Ezra Gonzalez, Monday included a long drive and some eye-opening new tools. Born with low vision, Ezra’s mother Rosa said they noticed his eyes moving “differently” when he was three months old - and he has been wearing glasses ever since. This week, they received advanced technological equipment that will hopefully make Ezra’s day-to-day a bit easier. On Monday, Oct. 21, Sight Savers America set up a clinic at the Region One Education Service Center and provided 30 qualifying students from districts in the region with new Onyx Desktop Electronic Video Magnifiers (EVMs) and other assistive tech. A national non-profit organization, representatives

from Sight Savers were present at the clinic to teach the students and their parents how the EVMs operate. Ezra and his mother made the drive from their home in Rio Hondo to Edinburg to receive the new tech. Ezra enjoys attending school, and math is his favorite subject. “I’ve been in first grade a bunch of days already, I can’t even be nervous,” Ezra said after bending his face down close to the sign-in sheet as he wrote his name. “It feels good.” Rosa was glad to see her son receive the assistive technology. “[It’s exciting] to see how what they’re offering is going to help him advance a little bit more,” Rosa said. “Because I feel like he kind of struggles to see the print and things like that. So, I know it’s going to help him a lot.”

Onyx EVMs are considered “life-changing, allowing each student to make the most of his or her vision” according to a press release from Sight Savers America. The device enhances contrast on a 22-inch monitor, and includes a camera that allows students to magnify objects and text up to 118 times. Sight Savers also said that EVMs open a new world of opportunity up to a student, allowing them to read, write, complete assignments and see things more clearly. Matt Daw, a Manager of the Low Vision Program with Sight Savers America, noted that it’s not just about academics when it comes to the benefits of assistive technology. “They can point the camera to themselves for personal grooming,” Daw said. “It almost acts like a mirror. That’s very important so they

can use it for personal, everyday use as well.” Daw noted that taking part in this program is about making a difference and having a positive impact on the community as a whole. “We help children and adults,” Daw said. “And it really gives them the opportunity to improve anywhere from reading and writing, sorting their mail, looking at recipes, watching TV or using their electronics and all the different aspects and activities can be done with this equipment.” Typically running upwards of $3,500, the low vision technology is not typically covered by any type of medical insurance, and more expensive than most families can afford. Funding for this round of Onyx EVMs was gathered via donations from the Reading Resource Fund of Communities Foundation of Texas, Brownsville Foundation for Health and Education, the George and Fay Young Foundation and Vispero. Region One Education Specialist Twinkle Morgan, who helped identify the stu-

dents and referred them to the program, said it was great to observe the impact it has on the students in the area. “They have things like this at school and they get to use them, but this is for them to keep forever,” Morgan said. “They’re not dependent on the school-issued property.” There have been two other clinics held at Region One by Sight Savers, one earlier this year and another held in 2018. Along with Morgan, the Region One Program for Visual Impairments, Region One ESC, low vision experts, Dr. Nancy Amir and Dr. Kathleen Freeman (who also provided the evaluations needed to recommend the EVMs) and teachers of the visually impaired were part of the process in getting this tech to students in need. Susie Andrews from WilCam Co-Op, works with visually impaired and special needs students from Region One in several small districts in San Perlita, Raymondville, Lasara and Santa Rosa. Andrews had the opportunity to see one of her students receive an EVM this week. “He tells me ‘Now it

will be easier when I do my homework at home,’” Andrews said. “Right now he’s using an iPad, and he uses it to magnify his work. Now, he’ll have access to a full screen, and that’s perfect for him.” Christal Vision provided the EVMs that the students were able to take home that day. Sight Savers America will also be providing students with extensive follow-up eye care annually, maintain the equipment as it is needed and will keep all the student’s records for analysis of their progress with the equipment until they turn 19 years old. For Ezra - who enjoys playing with his sister and Stella, the family beagle - the new Onyx EVM means reading, writing and schoolwork are tasks he will be ready to tackle. He said he was a bit unsure at first, but was excited to learn how to navigate the tools he now has access to. “I don’t know how it’s going to be,” Ezra said. “I’m looking forward to getting my stuff so I can see more good.”

Progress Times photo by Jamie Treviño.

Ezra Gonzalez learns about the Onyx Electronic Video Magnifiers provided by Sight Savers America at the Region One Education Service Center Mon. Oct. 21, 2019.

from pg. 1

OCTOBER 29, 2019

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BUS SAFETY

drivers, and have been ongoing since Oct. 9. They will run through Nov. 7. Students gather class-byclass and enter the buses to hear from the drivers themselves, who highlight the importance of being vigilant of their surroundings and the particular details about the bus and the bus driver. Trainings also included locating the exits and how they work, where the radio can be found and how it works, what a first aid kit looks like and where it is in the bus, the use of fire extinguishers and instructions on what to do in the event that the driver becomes incapacitated. At the end of the training, fifth grade students specifically are also taught how to evacuate from the

rear emergency exit - it’s not a good idea to jump out the back, and the proper protocol is to sit first and slide out of the bus to the ground. “We typically try to have fifth graders on every elementary route in case they have to help the Pre-K, first, second, third or fourth graders,” Lerma noted. “The fifth graders already know what to do, and they carry that on through their junior high and high school years.” Marcell Elementary School Principal Efrain Zamora said it was great to see the kids engaged in the process and asking questions. “We need to always include bus and campus safety in case there’s ever a fire drill,” Zamora said. “We

need to ensure that the students are accustomed to this particular drill. I feel honored that the students are taking ownership and make sure they involve it on a day-today basis.” About 5,500 students at MCISD actually take the bus to and from school, but Lerma noted that almost all students in the district will participate in extracurricular activities, field trips and special events, so knowledge on bus safety is necessary training for all. “I feel more secure about it,” Lerma said. “If we ever have an incident, our students will perform as expected. For any student that has gone through three or four years of training, it’s second nature.”

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October 25, 2019

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Alton gains new alternate municipal judge By Jose De Leon III A familiar face is joining Alton’s municipal court. Palmview City Attorney Eric Flores became Alton’s latest municipal court judge Tuesday during the city’s latest commissioner’s meeting. He joins city Municipal Judge Carlos Ortegon and alternate Municipal Judge Patricia Yvonne ‘Patty’ O’cana-Olivarez. “All our judges are attorneys familiar with the law and municipal law,” explained Alton city Manager Jeff Underwood. “He brings a lot of experience like our other two judges and will be able to help people through the process.” Eric Flores, who was sworn in by his brother Ismael “Kino” Flores, Jr.-is the son of former state Rep. Ismael “Kino” Flores Sr. Like Ortegon and O’cana-Olivarez,

from pg. 2

Eric Flores will mainly handle arraignments, Underwood said. “My background is in public service,” Eric Flores told commissioners. “My parents have done it; I’ve served my country and I am excited to join the city of Alton. I promise to uphold the values the city of Alton has adopted to move progress in the city along.” Up until the previous year, Alton has had two alternate municipal judges who rotated duties between Ortegon until their third judge left, Underwood explained. “And now we have an opportunity to get back to three to give the other judges some flexibility in their schedules and make sure arraignments get done on time,” Underwood said. “He’s knowledgeable, I’ve seen him deal with people and he’s fair and equitable, it’s what you want

out of a judge.” Eric Flores said Tuesday he is serving Alton in an as needed, voluntary basis. “It’s what public service is about, giving back to the citizens,” Eric Flores explained. “With positions like this, pay is always an issue for smaller cities on a tight budget so I offered my services at no cost.” Ortegon earns $28,000 per year as the primary municipal judge while Ocana-Olivarez earns $24,000, Underwood said. Eric Flores served in the army and has his own law firm that he runs with his wife, Veronica. He graduated from the Thurgood Marshall School of Law in December 2017 and besides his duties with Alton and Palmview, he serves as a general accountant for the La Joya school district. “So this is one more oppor-

tunity to help out a local governmental entity,” Eric Flores said. “These are additional duties but through my career in the military they’ve taught us how to task, organize and prioritize my time. Alton is just a service of an alternative judge if they need one.” The city of Alton currently has a partnership with the city of Palmview as Palmview handles emergency medical services to Alton. As city attorney for Palmview, Eric Flores said he won’t interfere with Alton’s city government. “This relationship between both cities is an example of communities and entities working together,” Eric Flores said. “And since the roles of municipal judge and city attorney are two different hats, I will not have interactions with city government here.”

SEWER PROJECT

according to a statement released by attorney Frank Garza, who represents the utility district. “Only then is the Project substantially complete and only then does Agua and its Engineer have to perform a walk-through with OG to generate a punch list required for Final Completion.” The utility district also disputed how OG Construction characterized the progress of the sewer project.

“OG’s work on the Project is not substantially complete. There are portions of the sewer project that have yet to be installed or completed,” according to the statement. “There are also noted defects in OG’s work. OG has previously committed to correcting those defects, but comments from OG’s owner recently indicated that OG has backed off that promise and now refuses to complete the corrective work.”

The contract doesn’t allow for sewer lines to be accepted on a street-by-street basis, according to the statement. “AGUA cannot order paving of the streets until OG has completed all required work. Part of that Work is an inspection of the line to verify it has been constructed properly. OG appear to be attempting to use public pressure to force Agua into forgiving OG of

its final obligations relating to inspection and correction of deficiencies,” according to the statement. “Agua cannot succumb to that pressure because the last thing Agua wants is to take possession of a street, have the City pave it, and then be forced to have OG come in later, tear up the pavement, and correct defective work.”

plan to ensure these firemen and firewomen were working in a safe environment,” according to the statement released by the city. “This plan included securing additional space and renovating the alternate location to ensure the new location met the needs of these hard-working individuals.”

Palmview hired Hutto, Texas-based National Mold Advisor to conduct testing. It found mold throughout the building. “The occupants of the building should not be permitted to work in this environment with the genus of molds found inside the

building,” according to a 21page report prepared by the company. The report also identified two types of mold, Fusarium and Stachybotrys, that posed serious health problems. After National Mold Advisor completed the initial assessment on April 23, the city manager asked firefight-

ers to vacate the building. “All shift personnel living quarters will be moved to the portable building,” Leo wrote in a memo to Alaniz on April 24. “It will serve as a temporary fire station and living quarters until the final long term plan of action is finalized.”

with the initials “M.S.” arrested him on June 28. “The officer told him that he was under arrest for not having a driver’s license and vehicular insurance and that he was going to be deported to Mexico,” according to a probable cause affidavit prepared by the Sheriff’s Office. When they arrived at the Progreso Police Department, the 20-year-old man said he was scared of being deported. “The officer took him to an office away from the jail cell where he was asked personal questions about his sexual life,” according to the probable cause affidavit. After telling the 20-year-old man to turn off the lights, the officer performed oral sex on him. Any sexual activity between a police officer and a

person in custody is illegal. When he finished, the officer released the 20-year-old man without any charges. Investigators showed the 20-year-old man a photo array and he identified Sepulveda as the officer who sexually assaulted him. The Sheriff’s Office obtained video from police department cameras, which corroborated the 20-year-old man’s story. He wasn’t the only victim. The Sheriff’s Office also interviewed a 17-year-old man who told a similar story. Sepulveda detained the 17-year-old man and his brother on June 30. Federal court records identify the 17-year-old man as “Person B.” “The Defendant informed Person B he would take them home, but that Person B

would have to do a favor for him first,” according to the federal criminal complaint. Sepulveda performed oral sex on the 17-year-old man, according to the criminal complaint. After he finished, Sepulveda drove the 17-year-old man home. The Sheriff’s Office corroborated the story with video from police department cameras and data from Sepulveda’s cell phone. Investigators charged Sepulveda with two counts of sexual assault, a second-degree felony; two counts of violating the civil rights of a person in custody, a state jail felony; and one count of official oppression, a Class A misdemeanor. Federal prosecutors filed a new case against Sepulveda on Oct. 17, when he was charged with two counts of

deprivation of rights under color of law. If convicted on the federal charges, Sepulveda faces a maximum sentence of life in prison.

from pg. 2

from pg. 1

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page 8

October 25, 2019

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Calling all seniors

MHM plans Day of the Dead Festival

The Mission Historical Museum (MHM) staff is preparing this year’s Day of the Dead festival: Noche de Calacas for Saturday, Oct. 26, from 4 to 9 p.m. Artisan and Food vendors will take over the street to sell items such as tacos de bistec, tacos de trompo, empanadas de pollo and de picadillo, brisket sandwiches, funnel cakes and more. There will be free face painting and carnival rides for the kids. Entertainment will be provided by Mission Parks and Recreation Folklorico and the Crescendo Music Institute. International entertainment comes to Mission via sister cities Francis-

co I. Madero, Coah., Mexico and Valle Hermoso, Tamps., Mexico. Featured attractions include an exhibition in the main building including a community altar exhibit, an outdoor altar replicating the historic La Lomita Chapel, and traditional sand painting created by artists from Mexico, some traveling as far as Oaxaca. The public is invited to view the installation of the sand art at the museum today, Oct. 25. MHM is located at 900 Doherty Ave. For more information, call 956-580-8646 or go to missionmuseum.org.

EVENTS

CALENDAR 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 28 – South Texas archaeology is the presentation topic at the next meeting of the South Texas Border Chapter of Texas Master Naturalists. It begins at 6:30 p.m. The public is invited to the 6 p.m. social preceding. Admission is free. The meeting is at St. George Orthodox Church Hall, 704 W. Sam Houston, Pharr. Guest speaker is Donna Otto, a 25-year member of the Texas Archeology Society, a member of the South Texas Archeological Society and a Texas Historical Commission Archeological Steward. She is a South Texas Border Chapter Texas Master Naturalist. For more information visit stbctmn.org. November 2 – The Texas Butterfly Festival free Community Day will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the National Butterfly Center, 3333 Butterfly Park Dr., Mission. November 2 – Persons of all ages can join with University of Texas Rio Grande Valley School of Medicine students for the monthly Walk with a Future Doc (WWAFD). It begins at 9 a.m. at the Bronc Trail, 1214 W. Schunior St., Edinburg, near the parking lot on the west side of the medical school. The event is free, and preregistration is not required. For more information, go to walkwithadoc.org. November 5 – The Los Muertos 5K hosted by Sole Racing, begins at 8 a.m. It will be held at Pepsi Park Sports Complex, 3930 Plantation Grove Bvld., Mission. (For more Events, go to ptrgv.com.)

VMHS band members make regional orchestra

A record number of Veterans Memorial High School (VMHS) students will be taking the stage as a part of this year’s Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA) All-Region 15 Orchestra concerts. Seven students recently earned a chair in the prestigious ensembles after highly competitive auditions. The TMEA All-Region performance will be held Nov. 9 at The University of Texas-Rio Grande Valley. The students earning a spot in the All-Region 15 Orchestra ensembles are, left to right, Taylor Peña, third chair, oboe; Daniel Martinez, fourth chair, Bb clarinet; Nicolas Reyna, seventh chair, horn; Laura Barba, third chair, flute; Brandon Salinas, first chair, trumpet; Julio Villarreal, third chair, trumpet; and Paul W. McCoy Jr., second chair, tenor sax.

Conference to offer insight on USMCA negotiations

McALLEN – South Texas College will host the seventh annual Binational Innovation Conference on Friday, Nov. 1, to discuss the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), formally NAFTA, and what that means for the region. It runs from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. in the STC Technology Campus, Bld. B atrium. The conference will bring experts from both sides of

the border to analyze changes contained in the USMCA, the likely impact, and how to prepare. Conference sessions will address how new rules and norms affect manufacturing, supply-chain formation and continuity, binational trade and border commerce, foreign direct investment, and general regional economic growth and development. Round table discussions and a speaker

panel will also take place. Interested persons can register at secure.touchnet. com/C20193_ustores/web/ classic/store_main.jsp?STOREID=19. Tickets will be $10 for guests, and $5 for students. For more information, contact Jose Eduardo Olivares or Aimee Garcia at 956872-5634 or 956-872-1611.

McALLEN – The Texas Senior Softball League is looking for men and women ages 55 and up to join up to participate in the league. They will kick off the season with their first game of the season on Saturday, Nov. 9, at 10 a.m., at Westside Park at Expressway 83 and Ware Rd. in McAllen. Interested ball players are asked to call Ed Martins at 956-581-2254 or Fred Esqueda at 956-987-6961 for more information or to sign up.

Speer Memorial hosts magic exhibit

In recognition of October as National Magic Month, and Oct. 31 as National Magic Day, magicians and variety entertainers Pat and Tess Davison have loaned a portion of their collection of magic memorabilia and books to Speer Memorial Library in Mission for a temporary display. The Davisons have more than five decades of experience entertaining audiences worldwide with 35 years at the Winter Texan RV resorts in the Rio Grande Valley. Pat has been a collector of magic books for nearly 60 years. The collection will be on display through Nov. 5. For further information, contact Pat Davison at 612597-7797.

Exploring the history of Día de los Muertos

EDINBURG – To learn more about Día de los Muertos, or

Edna Ochoa

Day of the Dead, join the Sunday, “La celebración de la muerte: una perspectiva histórica hasta la actualidad” (Celebration of Death: A Historical Perspective),” with Edna Ochoa. The program will be held Sunday, Oct. 27, at 2 p.m., at the Museum of South Texas History, 200 N. Closner Blvd., Edinburg Ochoa, a professor at the University of Texas-Rio Grande Valley, will host the presentation in Spanish. She will contextualize the origins and history of the popular holiday, Día de los Muertos, which is more than its color-

ful decorations and skulls. Ochoa is an associate professor in the Department of Modern Languages and received the 2009 College of Arts and Humanities Provost Award for Latin American Studies. Her teaching and research interests include Chicana/o literature, theater, creative writing and Spanish language journalism. She earned a bachelor degree in journalism from the Escuela “Carlos Septién García” in Mexico City, and a master’s and doctorate degree in Spanish from the University of Houston. She

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is author of many books including “La cerca circular.” Her translations to Spanish include “Zoot Suit” by Luis Valdez (2004) and “How the Frog and His Friend Saved Humanity” by Víctor Villaseñor (2005). She is also a performer, director and playwright. Her essays have been published in several books and journals. The program is included in the fee for regular museum admission. Call 956-3836911 for more information.

Spaces available for community garage sale

A community garage sale to benefit the Mission Food Pantry and the Mission Lions Club is set for two Saturdays, on Nov. 2 and 9. Spaces are available and individuals and organizations are invited to participate. The event will be held at the Mission Market Place, 202 W. Tom Landry in Mission. Set up on those dates will be from 8 to 9 a.m. and the garage sale opens to the public beginning at 10 a.m. and runs until 3 p.m. The fee to reserve a space is $10, and tables can be reserved for $5 each. To reserve a space, call 956-4589066 or 956-585-3542 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.

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October 25, 2019

Ninth Annual HalloFlute concert celebrates the season

McALLEN – Join the Valley Symphony Orchestra concert, James Bond Meets Brahms: Two Men of Mystery, One Incredible Concert, 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 956-661-1615. Featuring iconic James Bond themes and Brahms’ exhilarating third symphony, this third concert is a good introduction to the concept of a symphony and will feature a presentation by the Maestro on the structure and flow of Brahms’ third symphony showcasing electric guitar, 60s-style piano, and a jazz percussion section on “The Best of Bond.” Don’t miss the luxury car showcase and lobby display; concert-goers are encouraged to come dressed to kill and stop by the photo booth in the lobby for a Bondthemed photo to commemorate the evening. Tickets start at $25 and are available at valleyorchestra.org.

Bond meets Brahms tonight in VSO concert

page 9

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Coming Attractions

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. 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. • Celebrate All Hallows’ Eve at the annual Halloween Bash hosted by the International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 W. Nolana in McAllen, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. There will be 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. Call 956-681-2800 for more information. The event is included in the general admission. October 27-28 • The UTRGV Master Chorale and University Choir will perform their fall concert “Adventure is Out There!” at 7 p.m. at the UTRGV Performing Arts Center, 1201 W. University Dr. in Edinburg. 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 956-665-3881. October 30 • UTRGV Patron of the Arts presents Fanfare and Song: A Trumpet Festival with the Student Ensemble Series at 7 p.m. in the TSC Performing Arts Center, 90 Taylor Ave. in Brownsville. Admission is free. November 2 • On the Day of the Dead, from 10 a.m. to 5 a.m. at the International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 W. Nolana in McAllen, visitors can paint calavera art, view community altars, learn about Dia de los Muertos skeletons, make a traditional sugar skull ($3 per participant), and explore IMAS galleries. A vendor market will offer handmade goods and traditional pieces, rebozos, a face painter, and food. Entertainment includes Chulita Vinyl Club, Catrina contest, UTRGV Ballet Folklorico, Mujer RGV, story times, dancing skeleton craft and games. To sign up for the Catrina contest, download an entry form at theimasonline.org/welcome/ cultural-series and submit it by Nov. 1 at 5 p.m. The event is included in the general admission. Call 956-681-2800 for more information. • 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 two performances at 3 and 7 p.m. Tickets will be sold at the door, one hour before curtain, for $7 general admission and $5 ages 13 and under. The play is also available for tours to local schools through Nov. 25. For more information, call 956-239-0412 or 956-655-9308.

STYX makes RGV debut Dec. 12

EDINBURG – The iconic band STYX will make its Rio Grande Valley debut on Dec. 12 in one of those oncein-a-lifetime opportunities to be a part of something special. Doors open at 7 p.m., and the concert begins at 8 p.m. The legendary band will ignite the stage at Bert Ogden Arena as it draws from over four decades of barn burning chart hits, joyous singalongs, and hard-driving deep cuts. The six men comprising Styx have committed to rocking with audiences far and wide by entering their second decade of averaging over 100 shows a year, and each one of them is commit-

ted to making the next show better than the last. “Every night, we go on that magic carpet ride together,” observes original bassist Chuck Panozzo, who joins the band on tour as often as he can. “The thing I always like the most is the immediate response we get when playing live,” notes JY Young, an integral force of nature in the

band since its 1972 inception and the one who helped steer the band to landing its first recording contract with Wooden Nickel Records. Tickets start at $46 per person, and various VIP packages are available. Tickets are available at the Bert Ogden Arena box office, 4900 S. I-69C, Edinburg, or go to bertogdenarea. com.

Styx comes to Bert Ogden Arena Dec. 12.

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

REGISTRATION DEADLINE OCTOBER 25TH

page 10

BIG 7 FOOTBALL

opponents 166 – 141 thus far this season. After winning three of their first four games, the Raiders have lost three games in a row. Their most recent setback was to the Mission Eagles by a score of 30-13. Against the Eagles, the Raiders’ senior quarterback Iziaah Rangel completed 12 of 18 pass attempts for 106 yards, no touchdowns and

from pg. 7

one interception. Sophomore Isaac Gonzalez was the Raiders’ top rusher against the Eagles with 130 yards on 24 carries. Last year, the Raiders defeated the Coyotes by a score of 40-14. Sharyland Rattlers at Mercedes Tigers It’s been an up-and-down season for the 2-2 (4-4 overall) Sharyland Rattlers to

say the least. After alternating wins and losses the first four weeks of the season, the Rattlers won back-to-back games in Weeks 5 and 6 only to lose back-to-back games in Weeks 7 and 8. Their most recent loss coming last week at the hands of the Pioneer Diamondbacks by a score of 63-28. In that game, Sharyland junior quarterback Benji

Valdivia completed 16 of 25 pass attempts for 149 yards and two touchdowns. Senior Damian Pruneda carried the ball 13 times for 53 yards to finish as the Rattlers’ top rusher against the Diamondbacks. The 2-1 (4-3 overall) Mercedes Tigers have had an up-and-down season as well. However, unlike the Rattlers, who will enter to-

Springfest Park in McAllen. The Mission High girls team used a third place finish from Leila Arriola to finish second as a team, qualifying for the regional meet along with Nancy Maldonado (6th) from La Joya Juarez-Lincoln. The Juarez –Lincoln boys team, led by Jose Calvillo’s 3rd place effort, will also be in Corpus as one of the three boys teams from 30-6A. In a tight race, the Huskies scored 67 to points to finish in third behind McAllen Memorial (64) and McAllen High (62). Mission High will be represented by two runners, Rogelio Aguirre (4th) and Felix Perez-Castillo (5th). The UIL Region IV Meet races are scheduled to start at 8:30 am and run throughout the day. The 5A girls are

scheduled to start at 11:50 am followed by the 5A boys at 12:20 pm. The 6A girls’ race begins at 12:50 pm followed by the 6A boys at 1:20 pm. The top four teams from each race along with the top ten runners not on a qualifying team move on to the state meet at Old Settlers Park in Round Rock on November 9.

night’s game having lost two in a row, the Tigers have won three of their last four games including a 51-7 win over the Valley View Tigers last week. With only two games remaining on their district schedule, the Rattlers need a win against the Tigers tonight to keep their playoff hopes alive. Otherwise they

2019

from pg. 6

October 25, 2019

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CROSS COUNTRY

youth. Sophomore Danielle Salinas led the team with her 2nd place finish at the district meet, followed by senior Ana Hernandez (3rd), freshmen Carolyn Tudor(4th). Seniors Delilah Vega (5th), and Andrea Gallardo (6th) were the final two of the top five Sharyland runners who factored into the team score. Two more seniors, Arianna Gomez (9th) and Jerilyn Peralez (13th) also ran for the Lady Rattlers. Sydney Bravo, a junior, was one of the team’s top runners throughout the season and may still be a factor going forward. The Lady Rattlers will not be the only Big 7 school running at regionals. The Lady Lobos of La Joya Palmview finished second to Sharyland at the district meet and

the Sharyland Pioneer girls finished third. Palmview’s Destiny Quintanilla was the individual district champ, winning the race in 18:59.8. In addition, Pioneer’s Krystal Cantu was 7th and Palmview’s Gissel Gonzalez finished 9th. Two Big 7 boys teams from 31-5A qualified for the regional meet. La Joya Palmview, led by Rosendo Rodriguez (3rd) and Anakin Robles (5th), finished second in the team standings and Sharyland Pioneer was third. The Diamondbacks were led by Cesar Ramirez (4th) and Angel Avila (9th). Jorge Gutierrez of Sharyland High finished 7th to earn a spot in the regional race. The District 30-6A schools ran last week too, at

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October 25, 2019 from pg. 1

MIKE ALANIZ

hores Subdivision, which is located northwest of Walker Lake, for $39,500 in February 2017. “At the time of the sale, the defendant knew that the fair market value of Lot 112 was approximately $15,500,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarina S. DiPiazza said Tuesday morning, when she read the factual basis for the plea. “However, he used his position as the city administrator to get the city of La Joya, utilizing city funds, to purchase the property at an inflated rate, thereby receiving at least $24,000 that he was not entitled to.” Who owned the property remains unclear. The deed lists Alaniz’s sister, Blanca Valdez, as the property owner. However, when he pleaded guilty on Tuesday morning, Alaniz said he owned the property. News about the plea sent a shockwave through La Joya, where Mayor Jose A. “Fito” Salinas is running for re-election against two opponents. “It just shows what kind of stuff is going on here at the city,” said mayoral candidate Jaime Gaitan, a U.S. Army JROTC instructor for the La Joya school district. “We don’t know what other hidden things are going on. And that’s one of the reasons that we’re running.” Land Deals Mike Alaniz, 56, of Palmview spent nearly 20 years at La Joya City Hall. He resigned in June, when the Progress Times reported that FBI agents had started asking questions about a series of suspicious land deals that involved Alaniz, his sister and the city of La Joya. The suspicious land deals started in August 2012, when Hidalgo County held a tax auction. Dozens of lots in the Palmshores Subdivision sold for rock-bottom prices. The La Joya Economic Development Corp. authorized Alaniz to bid. When the La Joya EDC board met in July, the meeting agenda included: “Discussion and action, if any, regarding LJEDC bidding on Tax Foreclosed Property Lots located within the Palmshores

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www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com Subdivision,” according to a copy of the meeting minutes released by the city. “A motion to go to second auction for possible purchase of lots was made by Ricardo Perez, Juan J. Garza second the motion, all in favor, motion was carried unanimously.” La Joya released a copy of the meeting minutes, which aren’t signed, under the Texas Public Information Act. The minutes purport to document a meeting held on Thursday, July 27, 2012. That date is actually a Friday. In an email from federal prison, where he’s serving a 37-month sentence for conspiracy to commit wire fraud, Juan Jose “J.J.” Garza said he didn’t remember seconding the motion. He suggested the document may be fake. Alaniz attended the auction on Aug. 7, 2012. He signed in as “La Joya EDC.” The La Joya EDC purchased five lots in the Palmshores Subdivision that day, according to documents kept by the Precinct 3 Constable’s Office. After the auction, though, Alaniz and his sister took possession of the lots. The city paid $18,100 for Lot 218 and Lot 203, according to a copy of the check released by the city. Alaniz or his sister paid for Lot 112, Lot 217 and 219. Alaniz had purchased lots for himself and lots for the La Joya EDC during the same auction, which caused the mix-up. He attempted to fix the mistake in August 2015, when corrected warranty deeds transferred Lot 217 and Lot 203 to La Joya. Alaniz discussed the mixup in a November 2016 email to Amarillo-based law firm Perdue Brandon Fielder Collins & Mott, which collects delinquent property taxes for La Joya. “I need your help to clear this pressing matter on these two (2) lots that have always belonged to the city of La Joya,” according to an email Alaniz wrote on Nov. 22, 2016. “Years back when we (city) purchased this two properties during an auction held by the county. I being the City Administrator purchased

from pg. 1 those properties for the city and was able to purchase two other lots for me personally.” Perdue Brandon couldn’t fix the problem. Another law firm, Austin-based Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson, handled the auction. The mix-up also caused another problem for Alaniz. Back in 2012, the city of La Joya paid $8,500 for Lot 218, which Alaniz kept for himself. Alaniz or his sister paid $5,500 for Lot 217, which belonged to La Joya. Someone calculated the difference — $3,000 — on a copy of the check, which La Joya released under the Texas Public Information Act. Alaniz didn’t pay back the money until March 8, 2019, when he wrote the city a personal check. Lot 112 While the auction mix-up caused Alaniz plenty of problems, it was another land deal that prompted him to plead guilty Tuesday. Alaniz or his sister, Blanca Valdez, paid $9,700 for Lot 112 during the August 2012 auction, according to records kept by the Precinct 3 Constable’s Office. About five years later, the city of La Joya purchased Lot 112 from Valdez. The Hidalgo County Appraisal District valued the property at $11,321. La Joya paid $39,500. The Progress Times filed a public information request for all records documenting the purchase. La Joya couldn’t produce an independent appraisal or any records showing how Alaniz handled the conflict of interest. While the deed lists his sister as the property owner, Alaniz apparently owned all or part of Lot 112. “From on or about January 15th of 2017 to on or about February 23rd of 2017, while he was still employed as the city administrator for the city of La Joya, the defendant sold Lot 112 to the city of La Joya for $39,500. At the time of the sale, the defendant knew that the fair market value of Lot 112 was approximately $15,500,” DiPiazza, the assistant U.S. attorney, said Tuesday morning. “However, he used his position as the

city administrator to get the city of La Joya, utilizing city funds, to purchase the property at an inflated rate, thereby receiving at least $24,000 that he was not entitled to. The defendant knowingly effectuated this fraudulent purchase of Lot 112 as the city administrator by obtaining the approval of the purchase of the property from the mayor of La Joya.” Mayor Salinas said Alaniz never asked him for permission to buy Lot 112. “I used to sign all the checks,” Mayor Salinas said. “And that thing never came to me.” Mayor Salinas said he didn’t know about the purchase until more than a year later, when he met with Alaniz and City Attorney Kennedy Salinas. Alaniz admitted to buying the property, which prompted ethical questions, Mayor Salinas said, adding that any such purchase should be approved by the City Council. Mayor Salinas said he asked for a copy of the check, which would show who approved the payment, but never received it. “I want to clear myself,” Mayor Salinas said. “Because I never authorized anything by myself.” The Plea After he became aware of the investigation, Alaniz hired Mission-based attorney Rick Salinas, who frequently handles federal criminal cases. They struck a deal with prosecutors. By negotiating a deal, Alaniz avoided a surprise arrest by FBI agents and the possibility of days in jail waiting for an initial appearance. He waived indictment and pleaded guilty to a criminal information, a type of charging document frequently used when a defendant is cooperating with prosecutors, during an unannounced hearing Tuesday before U.S. District Judge Micaela Alvarez. Alaniz pleaded guilty to one count of theft concerning programs receiving federal funds, which is punishable by a maximum of 10 years in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for Jan. 9.

PEÑITAS DENNY’S

“We plan on employing at least 50 permanent employees,” Bramble said. The Denny’s may kickstart restaurant and retail development in Peñitas. “The great thing about restaurants is when one opens, others follow,” said Peñitas City Manager Omar Romero. Infrastructure projects supported by Hidalgo County Precinct 3 Commissioner Joe Flores, including the Liberty Boulevard project, the Mile 3 Road project and the La Joya bypass, positioned the city for development, Romero said. The City Council also worked closely with local landowners to court business prospects. “We’ve been waiting on the return on the investment a long time,” Romero said. “And we feel that it’s going to increase the quality of life in our area.” Denny’s isn’t the only project underway in Peñitas. “We have the skilled nursing facility that’s already under construction,” Romero said. “We have a few other projects that we obviously can’t disclose right now but are major projects that are going to be a big economic boon to the city.” Bramble purchased the Denny’s property from Mil Encinos Development Ltd.,

a company controlled by the Bell family, a major landowner in Peñitas. John Womack — the sonin-law of family patriarch Gerald “Jerry” Bell, who died in July — said the Denny’s deal, which had been in the works for years, moved quickly during the past week. Bramble closed on the property Oct. 18, Womack said. Construction started Monday. The City Council is working closely with the Bell family and Hidalgo County to spur development, said Mayor Rodrigo “Rigo” Lopez. “Peñitas sits in an area where we’re right off the expressway and there’s about 800 acres of land that’s waiting to be developed,” Lopez said. “And the Bells have always been part of our vision to grow.” Denny’s may prompt other restaurants to consider Peñitas locations, Lopez said. The restaurants may attract retailers, which would boost the city’s property tax and sales tax revenue. “The residents and the Council have been waiting for this type of development to come to the city,” Lopez said. “And it’s a great time to be part of the city of Peñitas.”

Notices

Rosa Muñoz MISSION – Rosa Maria Munoz, 81, passed away on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019, at her home in Mission. Jorge Ramos MISSION – Jorge L Ramos, 61, passed away on Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, at McAllen Heart Hospital. Olga Villarreal ALTON – Olga C. Villarreal, 88, passed away on Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, at her home in Alton. Maria Villegas SAN JUAN – Maria Margarita E. Villegas, 79, of San Juan and formerly of Mission and Granjeno, passed away on Thursday, Oct. 17, 2019, at Doctors Hospital in Edinburg.

Catarino Campos MISSION – Catarino Macias Campos, 69, passed away on Thursday, Oct. 17, 2019, at Mission Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. Manuel Davila PEÑITAS – Manuel Partida Davila, 85, passed away on Friday, Oct. 18, 2019, at Pax Villa Hospice in McAllen. Dario Esparza MISSION – Dario Esparza, 54, passed away on Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, at McAllen Medical Center. Efrain Flores MISSION – Efrain Flores, 67, passed away on Thursday, Oct. 17, 2019, at Mission Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

OLG

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LEGAL NOTICE

Application has been made with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission for an On Premise Wine and Beer Permit by Leo’s Express Drive Thru DBA Triple “L” Leonis, LLC, to be located at 124 W. Expressway 83, La Joya, TX 78560, Hidalgo County. Officer of said Limited Liability Company is Lita Leo, Managing Member.

CITY OF ALTON

ORDINANCE 2019-18-1022 A CURFEW ORDINANCE FOR MINORS, REGULATING THE USE OF STREETS DURING NOCTURNAL HOURS AND PROVIDING A PENALTY FOR VIOLATION OF THIS ORDINANCE; AND PROVIDING FOR A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE, WAIVING SECOND AND THIRD READING. READ, APPROVED, AND PASSED on this the 22nd day of October, 2019. Salvador Vela, Mayor City of Alton, Texas ATTEST: Baudelia Rojas CPM,TRMCCMC, City Secretary

LEGAL NOTICE

Application has been made with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission for an Off Premise Wine and Beer Permit by Leo’s Express Drive Thru DBA Triple “L” Leonis, LLC, to be located at 1000 S Leo Ave., La Joya, TX 78560, Hidalgo County. Officer of said Limited Liability Company is Lita Leo, Managing Member.

CITY OF ALTON

ORDINANCE 2019-15-1022 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF ALTON, TEXAS; TO INCLUDE PROCEDURES FOR PUBLIC TESTIMONY; DECORUM AND ORDER OF PERSONS PRESENT; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; PROVIDING FOR EFFECTIVE DATE AND DISPENSING WITH THE READING REQUIREMENT; AND ORDAINING OTHER MATTERS RELATED TO THE FOREGOING, WAIVING THIRD READING. READ, APPROVED, AND PASSED on this the 22nd day of October, 2019. Salvador Vela, Mayor City of Alton, Texas ATTEST: Baudelia Rojas CPM,TRMCCMC, 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

October 25, 2019

THE CLASSIFIEDS

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

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

October 25, 2019 from pg. 1

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GMCC GALA

Mission Chamber of Commerce. He noted that several workshops and collaborative events held by the chamber have led to a larger connected pool of businesses that contribute to the city and community as a whole. “We look forward to the upcoming year,” Chapa said. Cesar Suarez, the current chairman of the board of directors, spoke about what the chamber has coming up and introduced the board members. The chamber of commerce presented three awards: the Business of the Year award, the Business Leader of the Year award and the Community Impact Award. Ben Cavazos, the owner of MAE Power Equipment, was honored as the recipient of the 2019 Business Leader of the Year award for his commitment and dedication to the community, which has been ongoing for several years. Established in 1954, MAE Pow-

er Equipment has solidified themselves as the leading provider of commercial grounds maintenance equipment. The Community Impact Award was presented to the Education Foundation of Mission CISD, a nonprofit organization that supports the students and staff in the district by providing scholarships for students and teachers seeking further education, grants for classrooms and participate in several Back to School events that give school supplies and clothing to those in need. In the last four years, the foundation has given $143,000 in grants, scholarships and support for the Mission Consolidated Independent School District. The Business of the Year award was presented to 5x5 Brewing Company, a locally-owned brewery owned and operated by United States Veterans. They have been major hosts and sponsors for several events in the city in the last year.

5x5 Brewing Co. advocates for first responders, veterans and people in need within the community through their presence and support of several events run by the city of Mission. The Mission Citizen’s Awards, presented by the Progress Times newspaper, honors the people who serve as active role models and members of the community. In 2019, the Citizen’s Awards included the Woman of the Year, the Man of the Year, the First Lady of Mission and the Spirit of Mission. The 2019 Woman of the Year is Norma Guevara, a local leader who works to ensure that children and adults in need have access to food and shelter. Guevara serves on several boards and organizations dedicated to the Rio Grande Valley, including the Organization of Women Executives, Fem City, the RGV Food Bank, the Mission Boys and Girls Club and the National Hispanic Professional Organization

RGV Chapter. The 2019 Man of the Year is Randy Perez, who is the current city manager for Mission. A lifelong resident who worked his way up through the ranks of city employees, Perez was named city manager earlier this year. Perez also serves on several boards and committees such as the Texas City Management Association Membership Committee, the International City Management Association, the Mission Crime stoppers board, Leadership Mission, Mission CISD Facilities Committee, Mission CISD Education Foundation and has acted as a spiritual director for both Men’s and Youth’s ACTS Retreats for St. Paul’s Catholic Church Helen Bensten Reinhardt was honored as the First Lady of Mission this year. A familiar face in the Mission community, Reinhardt has left her mark through various means.

Reinhardt served in various capacities at Mission First United Methodist Church, including as one of the longest-standing members of the choir, the church historian and UNWomen. The Men’s ACTS Choir from St. Paul’s Catholic Church was selected as the Spirit of Mission award recipient this year. Active for over 10 years now, the choir volunteers to provide people with music and prayer for several occasions. Comprised of men from all walks of life and with a variety of careers, the Men’s ACTS Choir has served at over 150 funeral wakes and 100 funeral masses from Weslaco to Rio Grande City. During the gala, they also performed three songs to those in attendance prior to the announcement they would be receiving the award.

Local bands hit high notes at 2019 Pigskin Jubilee Memorial competed at the east end Pigskin contest in The Tom Landry Stadium Edinburg. was packed with fans cheerThe schools competing ing on their schools Saturday. from the west end at Tom However, this was not the Landry Stadium were Grulscene of a football game that la High School, Rio Grande typically happens here. In- City, Sharyland Pioneer stead, fans were in attendance High School, Roma High of high school marching School, Sharyland High bands competing in the 2019 School, Mission Veterans Pigskin Jubilee, the annual High School, Palmview High marching band competition. School, La Joya High School, The 77th annual 2019 Juarez-Lincoln High School Pigskin Jubilee was split be- and Mission High School. tween schools from the west “Pigskin is a UIL regionand east ends of the Valley. al competition, a festival of Hidalgo, PSJA Memori- marching bands performing al, PSJA Southwest, Valley their show and judges rate View, Economedes, PSJA them,” Guillermo De La Cruz High, Edinburg High, Ed- III. head band director at Misinburg North, Robert Vela, sion Veterans High School PSJA North, McAllen Rowe, said. “For all 5A bands comMcAllen High and McAllen peting, they get the chance By Jose De Leon III

to advance to the area round next week and the top four or five bands participate in the state competition.” The bands, each get 10 minutes to perform their show and then exit the field. With that amount of time, the bands pair their music with dynamic visuals to make an impression. Sharyland High School, for example, performed their show “On Pins and Needles,” a jazz themed show where a soloist plays the role of a voodoo master, controlling her voodoo dolls who are performed by members of the band and color guard. The voodoo master “controlled” the performers from a throne in the middle of the field while singing songs such as

CONGRATULATIONS! CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL CONGRATULATIONS PIGSKIN CONGRATULATIONS CONGRATULATIONS PARTICIPANTS

“I put a spell on you.” “It’s the most dynamic show we’ve ever done,” Sharyland Drum Major Jose Osvaldo Guerra said. “We’ve never done anything like this before and we always want to challenge ourselves and get a huge reaction from the crowd every time we perform.” For many band directors, like La Joya High School’s Nicole Garcia, Pigskin is the culmination of months of hard work from the students who have been practicing their show since July, spending several hours on the field to learn their movements and indoors to memorize their music. “These students put in countless hours, get cuts and bruises from their hard work

and have gone above and beyond and met every single expectation I’ve put in front of them,” Garcia said. “I’m very blessed to be a part of their lives and their band director.” For many performers and their directors, the most important aspect of performing was seeing support from the crowd cheering them on. “The kids turn it on when they hear that feedback they don’t usually get during a football game,” Sharyland Pioneer Band Director Arnold Salinas said. “It was really special to have our community shouting from the bleachers with banners and posters. The kids all notice that and love it. It was a special performance for us due to what the crowd did for us.”

With the exception of Grulla and Roma, all competing schools scored a Division 1 ranking, meaning that the 5A schools of Rio Grande City, Pioneer, Sharyland, Mission Veterans and Palmview will compete at the area competition Saturday, Oct. 26 at the Bobby Lackey Stadium in Weslaco. 28 schools from across the Valley will compete and the top five schools will compete at the state competition next month. “The marching band season may be over for us, but we’ll still have that same mentality of performing our best at every football game this season,” Grulla High School Drum Major Kristian Coran said.

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page 14

October 25, 2019

2019

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Name: _______________________________________________________________________ City: ________________________________________________________________________ Phone & Alt Phone:________________________ Email:___________________________________ I am age 18 or older. Yes, I would like to receive the newsletter and promotional emails from the Progress Times. We will NEVER share your email address with anyone else.

High School Football Contest Rules A $50 cash prize will be awarded each week for the winning entry. The entry coming closest to calling all the games correctly wins. In event of a tie, the tying entry that comes closest to the score of Tie Breaker #1 wins. If a tie remains, the tying entry that comes closest to the score of Tie Breaker #2 wins. If a tie still remains, the $50 prize will be divided evenly among the winning entries. Booster Club Grand Prize: At the end of the regular football season, the total number of complete, qualified entries will be tallied for each team with the team’s check box marked. The $200 Grand Prize will be awarded to the Athletic Booster Club of the team with the most entries submitted. No Purchase necessary. Limit one entry per household each week of the contest period. Must be age 18 or older to enter the contest. HOW TO ENTER: Check the box next to the team’s name that you predict to win each high school game. Next, for the tie breakers, predict the total points scored by the winning team in the Tie Breaker #1 game, and the total points scored by the winning team in the Tie Breaker #2 game. Fill in your name, address, phone number (This is how we notify the winners!), and email address. Check the box to receive the FREE Progress Times weekly newsletter and mail or drop off your entry form at Progress Times, 1217 N. Conway Ave., Mission, TX 78572. Or submit your entry online at www.progresstimes.net. All entries must be received by the Progress Times no later than 2 p.m., Thursday preceding the listed games. All entries must be submitted on the Official Entry Form printed in the Progress Times, Sharyland Times or submitted electronically from our official website submission form. Photocopies of the entry form are not allowed and will be omitted from the contest. Only one entry per household per week. Previous winners and all members of the same household are ineligible for subsequent weeks of the contest. Prizes must be claimed within 7 days of notification or announcement in the Progress Times. Decisions made by the Progress Times staff are final. The winners agree to allow the Progress Times to use their names and photographs to announce the winners and for promotional purposes online and in print. Employees of the Progress Times and their immediate family members are not eligible to win.

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WEEK #9 - OCT. 31 - NOV. 2, 2019

Check the box next to the team you think will win from each of the games below

❑ JUAREZ- LINCOLN ❑ PALMVIEW HIGH ❑ MISSION HIGH ❑ SHARYLAND PIONEER ❑ SHARYLAND HIGH ❑ LA JOYA ❑ RIO GRANDE CITY Tie Breaker 1 Enter the number of points scored by the winning team of the following game:

La Joya vs. McAllen Rowe

vs. vs. vs. vs. vs. vs. vs.

❑ MCALLEN HIGH ❑ VETERANS MEMORIAL ❑ PSJA HIGH ❑ ROMA ❑ VALLEY VIEW ❑ MCALLEN ROWE ❑ PSJA SOUTHWEST Tie Breaker 2 Enter the number of points scored by the winning team of the following game:

Palmview High vs. Veterans Memorial