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OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF TEXAS CITRUS FIESTA 2020 SOUVENIR EDITION

Progress times

Vol. 48 - #22

$1.00

MCISD approves Tom Landry scoreboard project funding

Friday, January 24, 2020

© 2020 Savy Publishing, LLC

09/01/2020 12:06:25 PM

Queen Citrianna LXXXIII

Texas Citrus Fiesta

www.ptrgv.com

Mission pins new and promoted firefighters

SEE INSIDE

Jaedynn E ' Del Alaniz

2020EXT Progress Times banner 10.5x2.indd 1

83RD ANNIVERSARY

Senator Juan O’CAÑA “Chuy” Hinojosa to lead Parade of Oranges “Space Odyssey Adventure”

Howdy

and welcome Texas A&M Corps of Cadets Parsons Mounted Cavalry(PMC) to our 83rd annual Texas Citrus Fiesta Parade.

I would like to personally thank MAYOR DR. ARMANDO you along with all of our Texas Citrus Fiesta staff, volunteers and participants for making this year a huge success!

& FAMILY

By Jamie Treviño Dr. Carol Perez was adamant on Wed. that no taxpayer money would be used to fund a new scoreboard for Tom Landry Hall of Fame Stadium.

This week, the Mission Consolidated Board of Trustees met for a regular meeting. In it, they discussed the scoreboard project, which is estimated to cost $1.6 million.

The item was presented

by Assistant Superintendent for Finance Rumalda Ruiz.

Ruiz and staff recommended that the funding come from internal finance (the general fund), and that it was the most beneficial option.

“We’ve been discussing this project for a couple of months already,” Ruiz said.

“We don’t have to worry about any IRS compliance issues, we have leverage in obtaining additional discounts once we go through a procurement process to get the price for the project.”

Ruiz also added that the general fund balance is strong and can withstand the cost of the scoreboard.

“From ‘17-18 to ‘18-19 we had 153 days available of cash on hand, and that increased to 160 days,” Ruiz said. “That’s very close to six months of having enough cash to cover us.”

Ruiz said that the Texas Education Agency recommends a district has two months of backup, and a financial advisor recommends three. Additionally, Ruiz and Perez spoke about the inclusion of advertisers, who will recoup the costs of the scoreboard project over the next ten years.

“The intent of administration is to replenish the $1.6 million over ten years, which is the average life of the scoreboard, through advertising revenues,” Ruiz said.

The Tom Landry Hall of Fame Stadium Scoreboard Project will include a new LED video panel, sponsor panels and an improved sound system. Ruiz said the project will be beneficial to district students.

“We already have a line of people to advertise,” Perez said.

Board member Petra Ramirez asked if they would be implementing a 10-year contract with advertisers to ensure all the funds be replenished in time. Ruiz said that when they last tried that in 2010, the only group willing to agree to a ten-year contract was Mission Hospital.

“We are competing with other school districts, and

See MCISD NEWS Pg. 8

Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa

By Jamie Treviño Lieutenant Robert Montoya is promoted to his new position by Mission Fire chief Gilbert Sanchez. Progress Times photo by Jamie Treviño.

Randy Alvarez, Dina Garcia, Arturo Lerma, Carlissa Reyna and David Rodriguez are sworn into the Mission Fire Department Thurs. Jan. 16, 2020. Progress Times photo by Jamie Treviño.

By Jamie Treviño A firefighter was promoted to lieutenant and five former cadets became full-fledged firefighters at Mission City Hall last week.

On Thurs. Jan. 16, Mission Fire Chief Gilbert Sanchez led a pinning ceremony for six newly promoted civil servants. He spoke highly of the dedication and effort it takes to become a firefighter.

“They’ve gone through a year-long process as entry-level firefighters, and [there is] also a promotion from one of our engineers to lieutenant,” Sanchez said. “This ceremony is to honor those individuals and their accomplishments in regards to what it takes: the testing and experience.”

First to be pinned was Lieutenant Robert Mon-

toya. Sanchez spoke on the duties of a lieutenant and what his new position entails.

“A lieutenant is in charge, pretty much, of a station and a crew,” Sanchez explained. “Lieutenant Montoya has been within our department for 13 years already and has gone through the promotions from firefighter to engineer and now lieutenant, and hopefully he will be continuing his goals and promotions within our department.”

Next, firefighters Randy Alvarez, Dina Garcia, Arturo Lerma, Carlissa Reyna and David Rodriguez were pinned.

Their families, friends and peers were present as they celebrated their progression into the next

See MISSION PINS Pg. 4

The Parade of Oranges, presented by the Texas Citrus Fiesta, will include a familiar face leading the way.

State Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa (D-McAllen) will be acting as the parade marshal tomorrow, Jan. 25 at 3 p.m. A prominent figure in local and state politics, Hinojosa has been a member of the senate since 2003.

The Parade of Oranges will begin at Griffin Parkway and runs south on Conway Ave., ending at 1st Street. According to a press release from the city, the Mission Police Department will be closing all the streets along the parade route in phases, beginning at 9 a.m. until the end of the parade.

Hinojosa, who graduated from Mission High School and played for the Eagles football team as quarterback, is the eldest of eight children. When he graduated, he volunteered to serve for the United States Marine Corps.

He is a veteran of the Vietnam conflict, and returned home after serving to earn a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Texas Pan-American. He also earned his law degree from Georgetown University.

Hinojosa started his career as a staff attorney, and later became the Assistant Attorney General. In 1980 he started a private law firm in Hidalgo County.

He served in the Texas House of Representatives from 1981 to 1991, and then from 1997 to 2003. He was elected to the Texas Senate in 2003.

Hinojosa has passed landmark legislation and helped to secure vital funding for projects across South Texas, and is a well-known figure in the area. He has been named a “Top Ten Best Legislator” by Texas Monthly three times, and a “Top Ten Legislator” by Capitol Inside three times.

Hinojosa will be leading the TCF Parade of Oranges tomorrow.

Sharyland school board confronted with uproar over abuse claims

By Jose De Leon III With the Sharyland school district and other officials still not releasing new information on an investigation into an alleged abuse incident involving students from Sharyland Pioneer High School, parents and other community members voiced their concerns Monday during the school’s board’s regular monthly meeting.

The packed auditorium contained several people who had not attended a meeting before, with most of them acting openly hos-

tile to the board as chants of “Shame on you” and “How dare you” popped up throughout the meeting and several cheers of support for speakers.

Last week, several outlets reported that the Corpus Christi Police Department were investigating what they referred to as an “inappropriate hazing incident” involving the swim team from Sharyland Pioneer High School during a swim meet in Corpus last fall. Social media has been overrun with accusations of the hazing incident which describe it as sexual assault and accuse a

campus official’s son of being behind the attack.

Corpus Christi police confirmed to the Progress Times last week that the investigation was ongoing but could not comment further. When reached for comments, District Superintendent Dr. Maria M. Vidaurri released two statements last week confirming an investigation and condemning several allegations on social media.

One dozen people signed up during the meeting’s public comments and nearly all

INSIDE

Texas Citrus Fiesta Events Ceck out our guide to all the events happening at the 83rd annual Texas Citrus Fiesta this weekend.

See Pg. 3

MEDC Programs

A new program to promote coding to neurodiverse students will be starting at the Mission Economic Development Corporation this spring. More on this and other innovative MEDC programs inside.

See Pg. 8

See ABUSE CLIAMS Pg. 8

Alejandro Rodriguez addressing the Sharyland school board Monday, Jan. 20, 2020. Progress Times photo by Jose De Leon III.

SPORTS

Wrestling Championship

A look at upcoming Sharyland Pioneer Grapefruit Bowl Wrestling Championships, which invites over 60 high school teams to compete in 1,000 wrestling matches.

See Pg. 6

INDEX Lifestyle...................pg. 2 Entertainment....pg. 3 Sports.......................pg. 6 Death Notices......pg. 8 Classifieds..............pg. 9

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January 24, 2020

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New MCISD program opens doors for medical certification

Buzz is increasing around a new program offered by the Mission Consolidated Independent School District (MCISD) for high school students seeking a future in allied health. Two students, Felix Perez and Julia Riggs, are taking advantage of this already and will be part of the first cohort to graduate with a certification as a medical assistant this May. “I like this program because it allows me to take advance courses and get an idea of what this career path has to offer,” states Perez, a Mission High School senior.

“This is of benefit to me since I plan to attend the University of Texas – Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) and major in nutritional science to later pursue a career as a registered dietitian.”

The medical assistant program is taught at Mission High School, and once they receive their certification, students are considered allied health professionals. Their assistance will support the work of physicians and other health professionals.

“I would like to first job shadow a physician and then eventually get a job while I attend UTRGV,” states Riggs, Veterans Memorial High School senior. “I am pursuing a career in physical therapy because I love help-

ing people. My interest in this field started when I would watch the trainers mend our athletes back to health.”

“Once students receive their certification, they can begin working in a variety of settings such as a doctor’s office, emergency room, chiropractor’s office, and many others,” states Melissa Gonzalez, MHS Medical Assistant Program teacher. “They will be responsible for many tasks that include both clinical and administrative.”

According to Gonzalez, a medical assistant’s duties and responsibilities will vary depending on their place of employment. Clinical duties may include taking a patient’s vital signs, documenting medical history, preparing patients for tests and exams, explaining medical procedures, and sterilizing medical equipment. Administrative duties may include, updating patient records, filing insurance forms, managing billing, ordering lab tests, and scheduling patient procedures.

Both Perez and Riggs are set to graduate from high school this year but before that happens, they will take their exam to become certified as a medical assistant.

According to current pay structures, the certification they are earning opens up possibilities for the two stu-

Mission C.I.S.D. Medical Assistant Program students Julia Riggs (VMHS) and Felix Perez (MHS) will be graduating from high school while becoming certified as medical assistants.

The program makes them workforce ready immediately upon graduation.

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dents to garner up to $30,000 straight out of high school – something they would never

have imagined before starting the program.

MJHS students make TMEA All-Region Band Twenty-two students from Mission Jr. High School (MJH) recently performed as a part of the Texas Music Educators Association All-Region Band. They earned the positions through auditions that drew hundreds of students. Pictured on the front row, left to right, are Stephanie Gerena, Kailey Kaufman, Karl Schmidt, Noema Trevino, Sarah Resendez and Keira Garcia. Middle row, same order, are Tristan Munoz, Quentin Rodriguez, Z’nia Medina, Janelle Corona and Christine Zayas. Shown in back are Brianna Vallejo, Marcos Garcia, Aaron Villareal, Jacob de la Rosa, Gael Robles, David Leal, Ryan Long, Kayla Cruz, Grecia Mayorga, Fernando Barsenas and Nicholas Rosette.

Leafing through the pages at UVAL VMHS students make All-State Band Veterans Memorial High School (VMHS) had six students who competed in the recent Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA) Area auditions and are now headed to try for the TMEA All-State Band, the highest honor a high school student can achieve. Nicolas Reyna (left, French horn) placed second out of 16 in the All-State competitions, earning him one spot, and Laura Barba (right, flute) placed first out of 16 for the top chair.

EVENTS

The book makers and book lovers of the Upper Valley Art League (UVAL) will host a presentation and panel discussion, “It’s All About the Book,” on Thursday, Jan. 30. It will be held from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the UVAL Art Link, 921 E. 12th St., Mission.

The presentation delves

MCISD launches new program

CALENDAR

January 25 – The Edinburg World Birding Center will host “Birds & Treats” programs at 9 a.m., with warblers as the topic for Jan. 18 and owls for Jan. 25. Admission is $3 for members and $5 for nonmembers. While enjoying refreshments, visitors will mingle with local experts and then move on to the presentation and/or walk. Registration is required at least two days prior to program. For more information, call 956-381-9922. The EWBC is at 714 S. Raul Longoria Rd. January 25 – The International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) hosts UTRGV Department of Philosophy Dr. Bradley Warfield presenting “Why We’re Often So Bad at Talking to Each Other Online” at 2 p.m. Warfield offers a perspective to explain why has developed a lack of quality, respectful discourse online. The talk is included with museum admission.

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

January 25 – On the last Saturday of the month, the Edinburg World Birding Center will open its doors for free to the public. This month’s theme is outdoor games from 2 to 4 p.m. Throughout the day, there will be puzzles, crafts, games, and other activities. Binoculars, children’s garden play sets and Junior Ranger field packs are available to borrow free of charge with a valid picture I.D. EWBC is located at 714 S. Raul Longoria Rd. Call 956-381-9922 for information.

January 25-26 – The UTRGV School of Medicine’s Institute of Bioethics and Social Justice is hosting the inaugural Clinical Bioethics Symposium at the UTRGV School of Medicine auditorium, 1210 W. Schunior St., Edinburg. The two-day conference will explore ethical questions and concerns in healthcare with a focus on training and professional networking for ongoing dialogue, support and collaboration.

Preregister by Jan. 14 at utrgv.edu/som/institute-of-bioethics-and-social-justice/symposium/index.htm. Registration fee is $200. For special accommodations or more information, contact Mallaly Aleman at 956-296-1551 or Mallaly.Aleman@utrgv.edu.

January 27 – South Texas College Regional Center for Public Safety Excellence, 3901 S. Cage in Pharr, will be the location for the 2020 Surviving an Active Shooter Incident taking place at 6:30 p.m. The event provides training for school officials, law enforcement agencies, and anyone who may potentially be involved in risk detection. An LEO seminar trainer will conduct the event. Register at leoseminar.com.

January 30 – City of McAllen’s Wellness Coach Rafael Curiel will share healthy living resources at Quinta Mazatlán at 6 p.m. Curiel will present “Finding Wellness Resources to Start Your Journey.” Curiel’s presentation reviews what a Wellness Coach is, how working with one can help you to set achievable goal, and how to access some of the best free and easy to use programs. Admission is $3 per person. Quinta Mazatlán is located at 600 Sunset Dr. For more information, call 956-681-3370.

(For more Events, go to ptrgv.com.)

Mission area businesses have a new way to reach out to employees of the Mission Consolidated Independent School District (MCISD) and earn their business. The district has launched Mission CISD Deal$. Through this program, area businesses can advertise their special offers to district employees, who only need to show their work ID at the participating business to receive the perk.

Businesses pay $100 to participate in the Deal$ program for one year. For that year, the business and the “deal” is included in a special staff section of the district’s website. The money will be set aside in an account used to help buy school supplies for the district’s annual Back to School Bash.

FRIENDLY SERVICE

Beto Salinas

(Owner/Operator)

Verley said it is a bit of an experiment and is not sure how the area business community will respond.

“We are hoping this is a winwin-win situation,” explained Craig Verley, director of public relations and marketing for Mission CISD. “We are hoping this is a way we can support our local businesses with very low cost advertising to over 2,300 employees, provide an extra perk to our employees through the deals and discounts, and support our students through the additional school supplies we will have available for use at the Back to School Bash.”

Businesses interested in becoming a participant, can contact Verley for more information at 956-323-5530 or cverley@mcisd.org.

McAllen hosting healthy living event Jan. 25

McALLEN – The City of McAllen is hosting a free, outdoor walking event to help encourage the community to move and exercise during the day for better health while racking up points for the City of McAllen’s participation in the this year’s It’s Time Texas! Community Challenge.

It will be held this Saturday, Jan. 25.

The 1.5 mile walk will start off from Gonzalez Elementary School City Linear Park, 201 E. Martin Ave., and head south on the 2nd St. Hike and Bike Trail, heading to Nolana Avenue, before coming back. Participants can walk, run, bike or skate their way to health. Strollers, pets and kids of all ages are welcomed.

Registration begins at 8:30 a.m., followed by the opening ceremony at 9 a.m., and the

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In House Financing with

into the nature of books and its role in culture, followed by a panel discussion highlighting perspectives from artists, writers and librarians.

A display of examples of old books will contrast with the new books of today that stretch the imagination.

The program is free and open to the public.

walk begins at 9:10 a.m.

The event is being coordinated as part of the City of McAllen’s participation in the It’s Time Texas! community health challenge competition.

Participants will be asked to register for the challenge and take a brief survey if they are not signed up. All will be asked to take a Healthy Selfie, which can then be uploaded to the site.

The City of McAllen receives points for various activities.

McAllen is currently in first place in the large city category and has taken the winner’s trophy the last two years.

To find out how to participate as an individual or business, visit www.ittcommunitychallenge.com or call the City of McAllen Health & Code Enforcement Department at 956-681-1900.

PAY HERE

Office: 956-800-9911 Cell.: 956-360-3757

520 E. 9th St. Mission, TX 78572 Raul Cruz -General Manager

page 3

January 24, 2020

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Coming Attractions January 24 • UTRGV Ballet Folklórico presents Huateque 2020 at 7:30 p.m. at the UTRGV Performing Arts Complex, 1201 W. University Dr. in Edinburg. General admission is $10 and $5 for students and seniors. Tickets will be sold at the door.

January 24-25 • iTheatre will host Improv at the Tower and Improv After Dark in two shows each night at the Tower Theater,120 S. Kansas Ave. in Weslaco. A family-friendly show begins at 7 p.m. followed by a “mature audience only” show at 9 p.m. both nights. Tickets are $10 per person. Tickets are available at iloveit.live.

January 24-February 8 • The Mission Historical Museum (MHM) 14th Annul Quilt Show will be on display at the museum, 900 Doherty in downtown Mission. An awards reception, with Turning of the Quilts program, will take place at 2 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 17. Admission is free. For information, call 956-580-8646.

January 25 • The UTRGV College of Fine Arts Dance Program will host Spanish dance performances by the UTRGV Ballet Español, at 2 and 7:30 p.m. at the Performing Arts Complex on the Edinburg campus, 1201 W. University Dr. Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for children, seniors

and students with I.D. For more information, call 956665-2230 or utrgv.edu/dance or utrgv.ballet.espanol.

• UTRGV Ballet Español presents “Spanish Nights Flamenco” at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday and 2 and 7:30 p.m. on Saturday in the UTRGV Performing Arts Complex, 1201 W. University Dr. in Edinburg. The performance will showcase the colorful costumes and elegant Spanish dance techniques the students have been taught by faculty dance leader Sonia Chapa. Admission is $8 adults and $5 students/seniors (students must current school ID for discount). Tickets will be available at the box office or by calling 956-665-2230.

• The Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley will host its annual Farm Dinner from 5:30 to 9 p.m. at the Food Bank RGV, 724 N. Cage Blvd. in Pharr. Proceeds support Gem Valley Farm, a community garden at the Food Bank. “A Night in Tuscany” will begin with a cocktail hour on the farm followed by a five-course meal with locally sourced and natural foods. Tickets are $125 each, available at the Food Bank RGV or online at foodbankrgv.com.

Seating is limited. For more information on tickets or sponsorships, contact Philip Farias at 956-904-4513 or pfarias@foodbankrgv.com.

January 25 • The International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 W. Nolana in McAllen, will host an Educator Open House from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission is free for all educators, administrators and homeschool parents with valid I.D. Call 956-681-2800 for information.

January 25-26 • The Harlingen Performing Arts Conservatory presents the musical stage production of Beauty and the Beast at the Harlingen C.I.S.D. Performing Arts Center, 3217 W. Wilson Rd. Performances will be held at 10 a.m., Jan. 15; 7 p.m., Jan. 18; and 2:30 p.m., Jan. 19, 25 and 26. Tickets are $10 and $15 and available at hcisdpa. org.

January 28 • The UTRGV Patron of the Arts Distinguished Artists Series spring concerts include a performance on Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2020, at 7 p.m. on the Edinburg Campus, by The Low-Frequency Trio. Founded in 2016 by Antonio Rosales (bass clarinet), Juan José García (doublebass), and José Luis Hurtado (piano), its members are active in the international contemporary music scene, and have collaborated with more than 20 young and established composers in the creation and performance of innovative new works for their unique instrumentation. The complete schedule and tickets are available at patron.utrgv.edu.

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

83rd Texas Citrus Fiesta “Space Odyssey Adventure”

Engines revving for McAllen International Carfest

McALLEN – Celebrating a successful decade of extraordinary automobiles, engines are revving to head to the 10th Annual McAllen International CarFest to the McAllen Convention Center Friday through Saturday, Jan. 24 to 26.

Event times are 4 to 9 p.m. on Friday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.

Car enthusiasts will see a mix of 95 categories ranging from classic and antique, to muscle cars, hot rods and race cars along with modern and concept vehicles.

This year, the popular and longest-running local indoor/ outdoor car show is set to

showcase over 300 vehicles throughout the convention center grounds including celebrity vehicles, an off-road obstacle course, a carnival midway, live music and much, much more.

Festival visitors have the chance to get up close and personal for a photo op with replicas of some of the most iconic cars seen on the big screen, including Lightning McQueen (Cars), Batmobile (Batman, 1989) and Green Hornet. As an added bonus, fans of the 80’s cult classic television show, Knight Rider, can check out Michael Knight’s legendary ride, KITT.

For Lego fanatics, visitors can test their skills by signing up for the Lego Racing Derby to build and race their own Lego creation down a 50-foot track.

Admission is $15 for adults; students 13 to 18 and senior citizens 60 and over, $12; and kids 12 and under, free. Tickets are available via ticketmaster.com or at the McAllen Convention Center Box Office. Discount tickets available, with valid ID through Jan. 24 only, for military and first responders for $7. They will also be given free admission on Friday.

McALLEN – The International Museum of Art and Science (IMAS) is presenting the retrospective exhibition of art produced by Kirk Clark, which opens to the public this Saturday, Jan. 25. “Cosmic Connections: The Metaphysical Practice of Kirk Clark” will be on exhibit at the IMAS from Jan. 25 through July 5.

An opening reception will be held after hours on Thursday, Jan. 30, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Throughout a 60-year period, Clark has engaged in a life-long practice of creating art and collecting an large body of work. He has been a prolific artist by any mea-

sure having created over a thousand mono-prints, hundreds of paintings and dozens of sculptures and other artworks in various media.

Initially training as an undergraduate in Fine Art at the University of New Mexico, Clark has continued to seek out instruction from highly skilled artisans and has worked collaboratively with such illustrious artists as print makers Michael Vigil and Shinzaburo Takeda as well as painters and sculptors Thom Wheeler, Jonathan Sobol and (Enrique Carbajal González) Sebastían.

Clark has pursued an artistic practice founded in the

metaphysical principles of Wassily Kandinsky and has primarily worked in a style that is informed by Abstract Expressionism. Rather than simply being derivative, Clark has expanded upon mid-Century Formalism in an innovative and authentic manner.

The reception is free for IMAS members and general admission rates apply for nonmembers. WIC and EBT cardholders can visit the museum for $1 per person. Admission is free on Sundays.

IMAS is located at 1900 W. Nolana. Call 956-6812800 for information.

Kirk Clark ‘Cosmic Connections’ exhibit opens Jan. 25

UTRGV to host Amerigo Chamber Players Feb. 2

The UTRGV Patron of the Arts presents the Amerigo Chamber Players in concert on Sunday, Feb. 2, at 3 p.m. at the UTRGV Performing Arts Center, 1201 W. University Dr., Edinburg. The performance features the works of Ludwin van Beethoven Trio, Anton Arensky and Ellen Taaffe Zwilich.

Guest artists include Jameson

Cooper (violin) of the Euclid Quartet and artist in residence at Indiana University South Bend, Jason Bonham (viola) from California State University Long Beach and principal violist of the Las Vegas Philharmonic, and Patrick Hopkins (cello) from South Texas College performing music by American composer Ellen Taaffe Zwilich, Anton Arensky,

QUEEN CII I NN LXXXIII

Parade of Oranges

Saturday, January 25, 2020 - 3pm Parade will run south on Conway Ave. from FM 495 to 1st St. - Mission, TX

Fun Fair

10am - 10pm, Saturday, January 25, 2020 Live Music, Food, Vendors, Craft Vendors & Much More Leo Peña Placita Park - 9th St. & Conway Ave. - Mission, TX

Heart of America Carnival January 18 thru January 26, 2020

TCF Annual Fahion Show

(April 2020) Date and Time TBA - $20 Fashion Show and Luncheon

TCF 2nd Annual Sanctioned Vaquero Cook-Off (May 2020) Date, Time, Entry Fees TBA

For more information call or stop by Texas Citrus Fiesta Office 2220 E. 9th St. - Mission, Tx • (956) 585-9724

and Ludwig van Beethoven.

UTRGV faculty joining them for the performance are Jonathan Guist (clarinet), Tido Janssen (cello), George Amorim (bass) and Stacy Kwak (piano).

Admission is free. For special accommodations, call 956-665-3881.

J EDENN E’DEL L NIZ

page 4

January 24, 2020

www.ptrgv.com

By Ed Sterling Texas Press Association

STATE CAPITAL HIGHLIGHTS

Governor requests presidential disaster declaration

AUSTIN — Gov. Greg Abbott on Jan. 13 asked for a presidential disaster declaration for three counties that sustained widespread damage attributed to severe thunderstorms, straight-line winds, hail and tornadoes.

The stormy weather on Oct. 20-21 hit Cameron, Dallas and Erath counties.

Abbott’s request includes public assistance and hazard mitigation.

“The State of Texas is committed to ensuring the people of Cameron, Dallas and Erath counties have the resources they need to continue rebuilding the public infrastructure,” Abbott said.

“With the help of our federal partners, these communities can rebuild quickly and gain access to important recovery resources. I ask that the

president swiftly grant this request in order to expedite valuable support to these counties.”

If Abbott’s request is granted, local jurisdictions will be eligible for federal reimbursement for the cost of disaster-related debris removal, emergency measures to protect life and property and permanent repair work to damaged or destroyed infrastructure such as roads, bridges, water treatment facilities, parks and publicly owned property.

Proclamation extended Gov. Abbott on Jan. 14 extended the disaster proclamation he originally signed on Aug. 23, 2017, and amended several times thereafter, pertaining to 60 counties affected by Hurricane

Harvey.

Texas law authorizes the use of all available resources of state government and of political subdivisions that are reasonably necessary to cope with the disaster.

Miller hails trade deal When President Donald Trump signed the “Phase One” trade agreement with China on Jan. 15, Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller called it “huge, Texas-sized news.”

The agreement calls for China to increase its purchase of U.S.-produced goods by $200 billion, including the import of agricultural products by $40 billion to $50 billion over the next two years.

U.S. negotiators agreed to cut tariffs in half on goods from China, from 15% down

By Jamie Treviño

County Regional Mobility Authority (HCRMA) was approved pending the approval of a city consultant on the project.

The consultant on the project, however, is yet to be determined.

The special meeting also included the authorization to solicit proposals from consultants to represent the city of Mission in advocating for an extension of the Presidential Permit, which is set to expire in 2021. Currently

Rigo Villarreal is a consultant on this project, but his contract will be ending soon.

At first, Mayor Armando O’caña proposed that Villarreal remain consultant and be put on the agenda for the Feb. 10 city council meeting. He said they wanted to review the pending contract and make a better decision as a council.

Council voted to solicit proposals, and said that Villarreal could also be an applicant in order to ensure a

to 7.5%.

Goal: donor protection Texas Attorney General Paxton on Jan. 14 joined the attorneys general of 23 states in an agreement with PayPal Charitable Fund Inc., the charitable arm of PayPal. In the agreement, the states seek to ensure donors are given clear information and disclosures on where their money goes when making charitable contributions through the company’s online payment platform.

Previously, the platform aggregated and distributed funds to the donors’ chosen charities without collecting fees; however, charities that maintained a PayPal account received contributions more quickly than others. That fact was not disclosed to donors, nor was the fact that sometimes contributions were redirected away from the donor’s selected charity and given to a different organization with similar purposes.

“Texans are generous people who selflessly give to countless charities and causes. They deserve to know exactly where their contributions go and how they

are handled,” Paxton said.

“The agreement reached today marks a recognition of the responsibilities charitable funds have to donors, and we are grateful for the new PayPal Charitable Fund provisions that will better inform all who choose to give to charity through the online platform.”

Agency set record again During calendar year 2019 the Texas Railroad Commission processed a record 11,654 new drilling permits.

The Lone Star State’s oil and gas industry regulating agency announced its staff also set a record in taking just two days on average to process standard drilling permits, one day below the Legislative requirement.

Also, according to a Jan. 13 news release, the agency processed permits at this faster-than-required rate for two years in a row, beginning in calendar year 2018.

“The Railroad Commission’s technological solutions enable operators to quickly apply for and receive drilling permits,” said Wei Wang, executive director of

the agency. “Nearly 99 percent of operators apply for drilling permits online. This allows our staff to thoroughly and quickly review each application to ensure operators meet all drilling permit requirements.”

Texas leads the nation in oil and gas production, with the Permian Basin in West Texas ranking as the nation’s top energy production region. In the last 12 months Texas operators reported 1.438 billion barrels of oil produced and almost 10 trillion cubic feet of gas.

The U.S. Geological Survey estimates the Permian Basin contains 66 billion barrels of oil, nearly 300 trillion cubic feet of natural gas and 21 billion barrels of natural gas liquids in the Midland and Delaware Basins.

“Texas will continue to be the nation’s leader in energy production,” Wang said. “The Railroad Commission’s efficient, timely permit review processes are essential to the continued development of the state’s energy resources and ultimately support Texas’ economic prosperity.”

fair process.

Eric Davila, the Chief Development Engineer for the HCRMA, was at the special meeting to discuss the interlocal agreement which was tabled at the previous meeting. He said the HCRMA and the city have mutual interests that would eventually require them to enter into an agreement regarding the area anyway.

“We’re an interested stakeholder that has a West Loop Project which would

be part of the alignment for any future rail to traverse through in HIdalgo County,” Davlia said. “I think we have some common interests.”

City Attorney Gus Martinez said the contract was legally sound. The agreement includes that Mission’s duties are the advanced project development work (funding), work authorizations, feasibility analysis, the extension of the permit, the facilitation of studies, rightof-way-records and the environmental process as well as a United States sponsor overseeing Mexican permitting efforts.

The HCRMA would act as the “performance manager,” supervising the services for the advance project development work, contract management and an audit of the services to be provided to Mission.

Mayor Pro-Tem Norie Gonzalez Garza wanted to ensure that no funds were spent until the permit extension was secured. Davila said they would not be spending anything until an extension was confirmed.

City Manager Randy Pe-

rez noted that the protocol for applying for an extension on this permit has changed.

Perez has been in contact with representatives from Senator Ted Cruz’s office as well as Rigo Villarreal.

“There were some changes in the administration process,” Perez said. “They are researching who, it’s not the state department per say.

They are providing that information to me, and as soon as I have that I will share it with the mayor and council.”

After some back and forth discussion on whether it would be more efficient and cost-effective to seek an extension to the presidential permit now or later, the council decided to approve the interlocal agreement “as to form subject to the execution upon review by the consultant to be hired.”

Council member Jessica Ortega-Ochoa hopes that the project is seen through because of all the work city staff and Perez have put into it so far, but they have to make a decision soon.

“We have to either say yay or nay and move on to something,” Ortega-Ochoa said. “[There are] great projects coming to the city of Mission, and if this isn’t something that we’re all going to move forward, we need to move on to something else.”

department and everything they do because our citizens count on them day in, day out.”

Perez thanked not only the firefighters, but their families for the support they give and the sacrifices that come with the job.

“Everyone is in comfort in their homes knowing that they do have the protection of our department,” Perez said. “It does take a lot of time away from family, and we appreciate that. We are all a family, we care for each other and at the end of the day we want everyone to go home safely to their families.”

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By Dave s Weesy 0. approxi-t III. d. Jul of the the edy” nci Mon. July Hendricks cent l mericue The City Leon or highliEspe y 31city of Mission.

1, 2019. city declaring JOYA t for ta’s ct la Council honor De , Oct. gh view 20 fami 50¢ se ire cha 4, last week 19ly D Aya ed a “foun Jo , and ng ting2019a woarksday • LA . e by s. ding father Mayo specia es bef the as pro hop in his oto utiv e X edne ” of Palm Jacquelin ognition r Rick Villarreal ph order l calledore holdi posed im ec W to es prese e Bazan Ex or Ja e (Courtesy Palmview Miguel de Luna nted a certifi proved to aut Tim y meeti ng a th of Jorge ress horit irect at Bazan) June 25. in the 1970s, durin, who pushed cate of recshop revisiohorize ng in to incorporat the Prog Aut y D ores h als g a ns.

City view o con ug aput Fl de Luna Council meeti e

By Dave tainedThe wo thro to pre graduated served in the milita sing DepIrma g. the ng on Hendricks

By Jam ract pect z city sentation an ov rkfrom Texas ie Treviño ry during Houzalez, ber eetin by the gree in educa wo cont t ex nzale A&I the The La Joya of hoer“Speedy” sion Gon em m ve a don’ Go clear ate Bil recentuld be aff Independen tion and serve University with Korean War, The memo w .

City Commission Misel A. ard m, 2019 was prese Espericueta l Jr. ly pas “I ha ber, I that,” made evect ry and acy of a formation t School Distri d as a principal a master’s deEdna eviño e Bazan, anhired Jacqueline nted The , 2. sed Se ed m e Jo d Bo ne 19 fallen patro leg- lamat at the La bers, (Ph ie Tr th a procpresen insura rates the life Rive poral contin Joya Feder provided by thect for 28 years, accor ion declawith otos Joya n-of Jose Decebeyond l cora history of attorney with d at s I’v mem “Spee an y, Ju Jam III ra city. nce dy Esper al Credit ring ted cou Luis Irm in by heat e 2n his famil ues to echo in 4, 2019 (his sou “Thi ard rtesy go plan Union board He also serve ding to inrces Oct.by who lems, as disciplinary prob-a da Leon ard said. ff, bo lost his of the otos er Mungay) was icueta Jr., ber orn , of directors. d on the La Mission. y and the city of an official daybirthd g th Di Huma ph on Tuesd city administrato De in the line bo n to sta .”

Hidalg Julio in hisuia as recoftordutyn Re life es mmdurin or. They mem s sw bruary sen ay. r se io ne During this June Tim e su See FOUN o Co were tativehon-and at the Noon Cesa Jacqueline 20,2019 ex sday Miss gh- eryo ard o wa t Fe emiof y Jo unty DING FATH s fro two age week’s city framed flags Blualso given ress th g counc r pl ne B “Jack eS zan, hi Bo las il wh og 44,” n. tin e ed Sheri Deleo ie” Bameeti hielocal repreER Pg. 8 p 43, Pr beat Com th ity Polic W ld msion BlueC ily of Corpo ng, the fam- political leade from ff's otio teres ars es, rza e Chief Mis• RIO GRA nshi sister of of La Joya is the Officen rs. The city of TeDomi Robe es ng ross read ral Jose The g of thorrelatio tion’s Florth Ga the m it in ree ye e of Mission.

La Joya “The citysho NDE p reg had xas. nguez A bort ) courtesy of city Luis honor torney Kenn VAL mili arni 18.

Au se tim d City ed Photos from th za tin d of hel wi LEY po fa At2019. an rt Missiard they en nd fin 25, are d aSee TREA s and tentia Aqua on meeusing e ten organi rs, is married edy SalinEspericue eir & Le ne ta on Tues. June seco“We en he a pa Gonzany comml emoweeks SURED Pg. pla ing dif worktic Cejoys th to busin as and for Corporal Ho hted th the member. on id to of d th orts on Ju Jorge Bazan 9 essman - memorial service ber e wa review ago; ns a cou ferent ve be ing flag nt the d n di d sa during , u’ er. s an D Sp ight cto em lig who e ar ee boar dire the La Joya ter serve m folds yoAmerican ap an that ed the this wo ple of serv ores r he rt tim ctor.

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By Da betw st nt need LJIS Fl ve pa Honor Housing s on thority board ive ardGuardto us- and • McALLE re ed wouldcity cou small revrkshop e LJ ial the Family AuPro ve He neweexecut bo moved n ho the basis,” ’ve ne ng a ty di g to a Mission Police Departme nci .

N The ec gre ISD isio form the in l io After stil mo vi “I pu in sp ter ndric ds Inv l sav wanted ns its When rza mill for did lez. ney.

Spor ss Times ly for about meeting with her e cy ha d a de com Ga .7 ks et e a me estigator e the that ts an photo apwith en l Nee The new with off th mber agen r an this is

By Ja nnie the $1 budg ar, sh MISSION ds atic C ecia s • City Comm41 minutes, the ent discalled d Le by Jam pri cid op cit ith Ki sp Co tio son cto y ed e ye ity of e n. ad l mie arning ie d Sp re es to Fo the arrested report the Sh to make ission voted 5-0 Th ent cked s w ms a mu gang deduct on wi n the Tre Aqunual prov authorg fisca pulatio employu- I’m gl.”

Treviñ LJISDr Veron Va d ha inut e Jacqueline rtm ki ra th her soneriff’s Compviño. the city admin Coun rder in welast we llucos to $1 ible (in ll cha city dean ing min e sti of e exec n- close e boar 50 mdget duesting l Bazan o Th Offic Speci ica Ga vide depa has mon progin the s ty. lex stern ek after Ferna e woma missing e to $3,00 ,000, famdividu nge the Th ately bu requ vera “She has istrator. upcowith on n sixfor th his co an Th ness a platfo al Needsrza, eve Hidal city mer athleticople o ha n nd e . worked Sheri e Hi dividu0), ou ily $2 al $500 the sum so “Sectio ract ys ‘T d for d proxim g th Garza on seas then other cities go Mission o Garzasaid her to the Progress Times eryon and remrm design Fami nts lik sum ral g pe eviñ rams, nt r sa rio in as well,” for Special her for , had ly Ni e the Julio ff’s Ofdalgo fam al $2 t-of-pock ,000 to e Jr., 22 son, ind tende pe ly cuss and ation such cisio City Commission t co This mer mo said Coun gh seve youn mie Tre prog the ed to n’t Th is des Peñit Cesar fice changily $4,00,000 to et (inmene directobe exe-year e year is Flores inform ms ’s dect with E. “Gen a seemingly endless er Maria con , of Ga the pas ty Indepeis Tues. erving of commucreate awt pro- held a is the nths. for . Ja on th lined the roadside as Edna as and Deleon, arrested with rza had t two daytacted from ing the 0 to $5$3,000, tiv ct shall l on of th dget fer- more eted itethority ntra s Mu-so, just y” Salinas. Thousands units passed respec nity tha are- exclus night third tim 4 sum ndent July 30 her backg “And of police and first responder area latest s. tra tiona proval the bu c re c- budg ing au eir co Texa at they on capRivera his gir 25, of “Diam someon been to a an 80/20 coinsu ,000), t ev- and ively to at the e the law Pg. round in service to honor procession - and all that, Nighmer’s sec School , 2019 t. sta lfri e on ita , 28 the de. ap less specifi e dire id. hous tend th rrier d wh g au addi honor chang 70/30 percen rance more filled a memorial See Grandtheir fam studencomplex distric

By Dave it’s They l murde, of Missiend, friend. Cod” and nicknamying the Spt. While ond Sp District, the La and thousands on unand the life, od something I think that th utiv a sa e t has ts wi ing percen t pla ex nce ca ue an housin eth bering tha Hend e insi up son ilie day $2 et Va gan r Joy wi sai on eci tec that’s nce t ort ricks neede ec to cha Esperi0 to s rz the th n lley. ic Ce is , the , Garza rne his gired hel a was killed al hn iza a really hero.

By Jamie Treviño em- td. Like a gooda fallen our budg oved the ex ’” Ga approv y insuraal Leagas the ent m ture sacrifice of Corporal With from acrspecial open ance during d nothing rges. $30 co-payt pla nter s and Le ically Needs d this the evetions tha “Speedy” Espericuet Thepay ’s mo d about ln, first witne ir Mississ,” wa ist U.S. $35Mars (locat arning an ann Fami Corporal Jose Luis Thursday, June 20th in Mission, (speci appr to was frotant ther thouto have everythingstrucPeace before a brief Mon- ing quhome and iño to the her vice arrest to $4hals ract, n is to no cate niciprred to cons whichwi ilies nt, wo t cam the help oss the needs on) said U.S. Attor family, cueta.

Assis m smoo on ed ce nt ali ly ual eulogy Serev we duty the Espericueta ’s G op in of app Co g in io thly was ed 5) e est , Jus The for of di e R runline co ney Peter fe rd theerg Espericueta en Leon, ened at 1801 mplex event, p.m Rio Nothstein, tog dered Jason and st copay andEm with so in the ions. starte nt to earstar witne against tice from by his coworkers “S ie Tr were r’s y mot ..and al inng th - re ority’s minina raise proje M. AR USIN De its do . wh med a spread ether toseveral orformer state a prosecutor ency cha d ask ss cts. 4 many Victor to Weste Aquat Missionites and people Speedy, as he was called held Deleo Peña, whof the male he learne HO ter t et. prov di th airs s as di quick Judge Rudy ors aga es U.S.• Depa Jam o m EsRo ct ngthe mourned given by After pre spo ing.” Pg that we haveTx. Ac en the long scriptDistri • PH and n and rn lat wi com-definition of a public servant. d rtment of with across the country Corporal Bobbie’s brother “S budgis ap exten utive That of deees ge ISSION By knew of tice PubliLA eelchr tube eds Delga in to Rd. in- Victor cording night line outsidly, and nsor coJO ion om Tuesdabo very Riverao or- Rivera er identi from a “L thout Jusut just ask ec c Integ e YASectio th The City the aw. him personally or justwonderful on ing do cowrap brother-in-l the loss of Police Garza to LJ started. m whr inne ial ne hed rity in, hu ooks likbond. ploy See M woay, e bef fames we ar the exr year. he was be gotten that Fe fied as fethis pericueta’s Whether you knew qu paywhich Commission up uld howhours is . hired Jacqu befor Bobbie do , the ISD At nt of what this ore 6 el with rnand Edna Custoin fo th spec splas park into Jose Luis Espericueta uled thetestify left h,” Peña e it jus theyschedim se esteions Perez handling the case. n, De Leon said that th y at ct of anothe he was the embodime lending a helping hand Depu ter interv eline Bazanhim, d wi ilies ter r Jo to decidepacto claim ty t em cha. ngesbribe ra r See SP were pre hletic Di not to be toontseon thethe room, said aft t sunk amon a male nican arg o had afweek. iewing four for: always Noepla n becmarsh trade ren fam e wa day. the d Delgado ed that he served asked him the eulogy, d als arrest ploed pared co be-r fo ion.” Directo ded ng cants.

Perez d” and rec um community stands a smile. This was evident in the er the ECIAL ir kn appliyee Jr., Espericueta, who aus58,to app for up tor len fin child their a tru Tues ek, ol Co facial com y had De- rious during tha amed “Dent recto y mot ive responthanki rovel- s,ary 2008 to Nove from JanuNEED —anc McA since that an attorn Businessma ial eye ofof the and doing it with attorn urt rec expresmenting cordinpulled a t “Diam the Mission Police was cause that’s how Espericueta to the “Duri mber 2016.

S NIG ithat has been shown and nd in e this this wet Scho al ed Th e rev is mExecut alez n by n John Pena, guilty a disc jocke plead cirwho gu g ng the cours cit-y’s consp HT Pg toisio outpouring of supportof Mission and its citizens will wanted. it.

Riveraeys forords do sions. bribin partment for 13 years, nz arou rienc ne 18 nden d annught De to cou n ou ond” y who heads —inc gcum e of the ns con stance Delga onlud iracy, Defen of duty would have La Joya .2 these Go motio Tuesd e the iño day. The city do s. Judge By Deleo n’t list car, a puties rt recordt,” acpreparing reache , wh of ay was fateful the I killed in the line Hous expeOn Ju Indepe eir 2n ily Ni the ev • morn “As dant tin A. Depu bu M Da a’s ing Autho o cou n susimple ing,ued fou ma Delga ve paid board and ily myself, rz ty y-u s. d ISSI U.S. th ieI Tr asked revisio rity in ex. p pla while chasing an armed with forever be in his debt. mentasaidto or other itemsdo Mars Ga Th for Hend ldn and go, the folroon Do nd Garza to Speedy and every Lara, g to be famrinlike ON money Joya ld Fam hal Jam Joya Econserves on the La June 20, remarks Juan n pre spoke on Jul e investcomment. ’t be also optio a ns tion changThe Joey La ict he eds Center mpl es of value by would community is indebted ricks low dge ’s to sman pect on Thursday, known ‘how her feder uniform, and badge aces du Housi mium e for U.S for ment Corp.omic Develop- Our y 25 igatio sufferfound Ga ing day Duranagenc the retire thes, consi otos br terd?’” De Leon and alns, . able in exDistrecial Neuatic ning Cofamili de of that puts on their vest, 2019. Affectionately ng favor , wh n premi druy.g list opme . They ed a em Cen parjudici Es-ph sremembere derati The e rza and De Chief Adolf board; policeother officer shift. You see, each and everyone the es Al en a started he dedon,” tmental Sp the Aq Lear ew Gran ial umry case op plan towethe nt dis as “Speedy” to many, “We bribe Uraccor gu , wh with every Tim his ed at said.

Delga em cazar ic “While it’s truecareer as woma ban ding again former Sullivo Arriaga andbefore By crimi tions do wiisll s.sched behind ss l ne stern pat inform pla at orts & ent dr e Rio spec ssiSee HID nshot woo had follows this routineafter that st nal re Develof tio ployees said she Jose De n pericueta leaves Mond startns:Wedn ia Aqu icated his life to his also enHi che og ecRoberta th ness ed ce st Perez d a tea ation ager Juan an City Man- these selfless individuals a bas be hav uled to again ns it home ev und cha to ALGO years, not make ay to dal. go“On may III ngllen. wife of 21 Pr occas busi eeds SpThe across provid p-ac theyLeon ing tw e pla morn Luis sp Esperier ions, m to aged from HU answe asked McA a police officer, he as our Cedil the lowed busin e to esday Counsome COUN determ Cpl. Jose viewe vie With that in DeithLeon oc ter d on June lo inter- knowledge o ing or not Defen ess wed, m and ndica l op n tha ing esses that ty “Bobbie”t w dant inc memb D and r quesnearly one-t g at joyed his side hustle TY customers to is e ine would 27. buy-u“Mr. of danger The ueta succ eds Perez loca ted pr Cen n fro lley and ha . encou we tion 3 ast will wi Authothe La Joy wh on Joh luding ers of and en their mintwo children: resident TVSstar.”

ION up to fourcharg Pg. 9 City Comm an inherent . shift. Americans cueta high “Speedy” Esperic carryhird tio Va s Ne etth fed See ritySTAR WITN held a speci call canusing Mung p plan wiisllgoing iño take the cards every toreforofficers a Hoeth- De n Pena, board the boardrper- some court. We could IS Every ities the ission use of a credit A stud swim Brianna and appeared on credityet, cent donaPAWS adop hile these eral is com Espericueta M Trev ter es as rev have be uia ESS A19-year-old and al usneedamen wing Special Athl id t. thing par day, A Pre meeti le see • cha noon “It's to the , apparent, ie Naat er card. reg w it and thr where are credit chanc- citizens aand put tm ng at not always hi even Joaquin.

Tuesd ply me said.

PD” ng ulatio Pg. iew a the eefew 13-year-old withi w ble Follo ar ’s LJISD rza sa ss Jam t Cen mix the ided many statescourt battle card users and 10 Center teaental Enet withsident unty bers interv ay,bywhen public A&E’s “Live Cityo. Texasof may ns. ing role asin allowyears, all 50 states n a from 24e our ret “We ed,” for HUD person tea their community in takes secondary right now, theVisitation for the June tional Geographic’s “Boren memiewed t ye ght, r Ga acro m. provties ble coon III forcem the De to just ina Texas Pe ica adsafety cem have oto Ev wi will cov ire credit card mo Bazan durin safety Jacqu on additionalTheir ownnotice ph or forefront. of lasily Ni r Victo from d , that are not es.” was held this Mon., mass derWars.” De Leon went ’s surcharg- cit erage nths of e periodll in La ent Cepartmentm from requesna didn’t mereline ent ER execu and rtuni a notaDe Le in this Ative sion.Times issigon esduty. credit cardtocharg to y-p batCol on their tling the issue t for al En cit nte He res terno Joya on Espericueta Fam rectogroups rush intheir CENTPg. 6 24 and the funeral theyLast The surch M e All- ver, sesa did thatofday. card surch emplo aid cov 12 mo y-paid oppo ring Jose ent the last year.

- for If the comme pond 25 at to speak on Mor arrive credit ress“First TIC arge ban Corporal Espericuet nths ho on. ic Di ral to a era arges safe overturned what yee took place Tues. Junein Mis- passion for barbequing and theforofthall,DI en cem Depar nt. citizens That issumm ,” Ahme Elnah Progto nday d vio hono eon. the ev er, a feder of int using After judge keeping as, aour AQUA at thank in would like after oppon was years of s retiringe for tho Church d seve in ensure that healwassor n allt the Cowboys.

7 financ autho afPalm rev lat ent Ce tment rs tioMayo it ewithout See surg es on sue. ents n ruled rushed g profes- a argued that the law se me erviewing EY Valley the statetoAusti at He “W ser Department the Dallaswas a man of many, risk. rity iewing regula ions of nter tea al En The did be said Pg. was atTexas ta n evenr Joseapplicants,” the Universityknow safety that violated list to e will vice or mowith 25 eti “Joey ownprohi his law writ k’s is ALLsion. The Police A. “Fito whileants merch -Rio him, you’d See knew of U.S.first amendment board ng with person records, trigger tions, HUD rulm finds biting if you mem esenSalin De Leon said. the perchange re.” mai as. “We feel ” E V parked Espericueta’s vehicle from because of the list said. “A Grande Valle Constitutio wee as a many talents,” ity e pr w’s custo I that they chargingbuilt second a rep , the tea membersnel and people sanctithe report es and Dip y it lot of states mersthought ND n because will, our ph forma our drug outside the departmentfallen “He was the only person as for. ort for m wi surchhe mun inut orro Texas isa what cover armacy nce dru respo ons aga could cit it by of the RA suchwasfromprevented merch thiscost citizen argewas of that cha m , fellow the Califo See -m G his of shrine in their not knew that could make wearm to Pu HU ll tag kind ATTO nge the HU prepar rnia, will be co York and bli s to serve ants e of the credit to g D mansible. inst the fin y of MiPilar fo RNEY lettin card His It did swipewillingnes Florida He New and faithful- and eir 10 “T c Ho know about g customers remainand our to the network e people alist d uncon brother’s memory.

ION un ss be forgotten.

• RIO was fore th and ing Crocs cool, willsti-not bans tution these Pg. 8 everyt hey’re using. D Office hibitin respo y punis and put on against had of th ion an der Pil the swipe who e ankl al. siv ISS unrivaled e long with base plaadvanthat This, ers sing ion be take long for red, whiteflags ly wore cargo shorts everycommunity go nsi es our credit surch h M hin g to in fee e St d H- ar Go ing that were ducti effect autho a hero no thear tit arg- charg as • card the n the ble matter leadhe remembere acy’s E-B incluto tac d as , al- daily. blue flowers, American the where he went, noity rity g,” sai to che nz ultim turned over e for eachcompaniesa physicalour emplopremiumwill Direc fed ng bu m fro by pro Rise at a cealez (ce Progre C le recompe the tive,the by their ately Pg.tion and balloons to adorn rts badge and as “A tor ClaInterim d housi ck pu eral go siness m con ssi-uniform com yees occasion.”

9 and how usingtransacit state Proje rem nt ss nis nova effo ges. r Je that hav whiwhen nd tha udia Execu ng with pla first six ple See FALLEN HERO ard memorial.

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1217 N. Conway, Mission, TX • 956.585.4893 email: info@progresstimes.net

.. pg.

9

Your Hometown Newspaper, Bringing Communities Together.

public servant, thanking the families for remaining understanding when their loved ones serve the city.

“Bear with us as we go along with growth with growing pains,” O’caña said. “But they’re great pains to have.”

Perez echoed the sentiments of growth in Mission, saying it was great to hold promotional ceremonies at the city.

“We are advancing and we have opportunities for these young men and women,” Perez said. “Most importantly they’re part of our city of Mission family, and so we appreciate everything that they do for us, we appreciate the

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phases of their careers in civil service.

City officials also joined in the ceremony, including Mayor Armando O’caña and City Manager Randy Perez.

O’caña, a former fire chief himself, was glad to see even more people join the ranks of the Mission Fire Department.

“You probably already know that Mission has been a very progressive city the last two or three years, and we’re going to continue doing that, we’re going to grow,” O’caña said. “As we grow we need more police, more firefighters and so forth.”

O’caña referenced his history as a

For the latest news and updates

MISSION PINS

from pg. 1

Pt

The Madero/Reynosa International Bridge project is entering a new stage following a special meeting held this week.

On Wed., the mayor, city manager and city council met to discuss the project, which has been up in the air pending an expiring Presidential Permit and the security of funding. During the special meeting, an interlocal agreement with the Hidalgo

Progress times

Mission to enter in new interlocal agreement on Madero Bridge Project

January 24, 2020

page 5

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SHS alumni plan march in protest of district response to alleged Pioneer High School swim team scandal

By Jamie Treviño A pair of graduates from Sharyland High School are continuing their fight to get a response from the district to ongoing sexual misconduct allegations with a protest set for next month.

Xitlalit Melgarejo (class of 2018) and Dante Flores-Demarchi (class of 2017) are organizing a march in protest of the Sharyland Independent School District administration’s response to an alleged hazing incident last November. The pair met with the city of Mission’s Planning and Zoning Director Jaime Acevedo on Wed. Jan. 22 to obtain a permit to gather peacefully on Feb. 1.

“I’m really happy that people are speaking out,” Melgarejo said. “When we’re together, no one can ignore us.”

The march is being held in response to the highly publicized incident (currently classified as hazing) regarding the Pioneer High School boys swim team last fall in Corpus Christi. No concrete details have been given concerning the claims, but social media has been abuzz with accusations of sexual assault and a campus official’s son acting as the instigator of the alleged attack.

“If you work at a school you’re supposed to be there for the students – not for administration,” Melgarejo said. “That should be a passion you have, not for anything else.”

On Mon. Jan. 20, SISD held a board meeting where a dozen public comments were made, most of which criticized the district for a lack of response to the incident. Parents and former SISD students also alleged a cover up on the district’s part, and said there is a history of sweeping similar incidents under the rug going back years.

Melgarego and Flores-Demarchi were among those who

participated in the public comments. Melgarejo quoted one of the few public comments given in support of the district, saying a woman commented that “social media is where humanity goes to die.”

“But what about all the sexual assault and rape that happened in that school?” Melgarejo asked. “Isn’t that kind of the death of humanity as well?”

Superintendent Maria M. Vidaurri released two statements last week which both confirmed an investigation and denounced allegations from social media. Several news outlets reported last week that the Corpus Christi Police Department confirmed they were investigating an “inappropriate hazing incident.”

“I think the statement they [the school district] sent out was really vague and trying not to muddy waters, that was my impression of it,” Flores-Demarchi said. “People know the lack of transparency that goes on, they see right through them.”

Unsatisfied with the district’s response so far, motivated to support the victim (and victims in the past) and inspired to keep the conversation going, Melgarejo, who attends the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, and Flores-Demarchi (who attends Brown University but is currently on medical leave), expect a big turnout for the march.

“If anyone thinks this isn’t okay, we need to put pressure on them [the SISD administration and school board] to acknowledge these people,” Flores-Demarchi said.

Melgarejo, who said she has family members who have experienced sexual assault in the Sharyland district, has felt compelled to speak out on it for years.

Both Flores-Demarchi and Melgarejo said that in the past and present, parents should have been notified, a meeting

Bookmaking panel coming to the UVAL

By Jamie Treviño Paula Ranney is excited to get people into bookmaking.

She, along with Retha and Jonathan Blocher, will be participating and running a bookmaking panel discussion next Thurs. Jan. 30 at the Upper Valley Art League (in the Art Link, next to the gallery). The presentation, which will include the nature of the book and its role in the world, will run from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. and is completely free.

“What we’re going to talk about is the book,” Ranney said. “People have been making books for centuries, and we’re going to talk about why and the cultural reason that all happened.”

Ranney only discovered bookmaking a couple of years ago, and has been hooked ever since. After the panel, she plans on holding a couple of workshops so people can learn the basics of the craft.

“You’re doing something that people have done for centuries,” Ranney said, displaying a sketchbook she recently made for her grandson. “Part of what we want to talk about is the art of the book and what you’re going to use it for. We’re going to have examples.”

Ranney went over the changes books have undergone, from the inception of bookmaking to the industrial age to modern days. She noted that a lot of bookstores have closed recently due to the popularity of digital ebooks.

“My basic theory is that it may have opened up the door for people to learn how to appreciate handmade books in ways they might not have,” Ranney said. “Am I right?

Am I wrong? I don’t know.

So I started making books and got to exploring all the things that go into a book.”

Ranney came up with the idea to hold a panel. She

explained that bookmaking doesn’t take a lot of tools and can be made with simple things.

“It really isn’t a very difficult thing to do,” Ranney said. “It takes just a needle, thread, paper, maybe some book board, and you can make yourself a book.”

Retha is a librarian, and her husband Jonathan has honed on the craft of calligraphy. All three have a passion for artistic expression in all mediums, and were inspired to teach others about bookmaking.

“People are born to create, they’re born to illustrate and

Paula Ranney and her sewing frame for bookmaking at the Upper Valley Art League gallery. Progress Times photo by Jamie Treviño.

Meet Raymundo. He’s a mini pincher and has a very loving nature. Raymundo is 2 to 3 years old and is ready for a forever home. If you are interested, contact the Mission Pawsible Program at 956580-8741, M-F, 8AM-5PM. The City of Mission Animal Shelter is located at 227 Abelino Farias, and is open throughout the week and on Saturdays - 9AM to 4PM. The cost to adopt is $50, which includes: Spay/Neuter, Rabies Shot, First Vaccine, Microchip and Deworming. To view more animals in the Mission Pawsible Program, visit missiontexas.us.

Sponsored by Jerry Saenz, Agent

1211 Conway Ave • Mission TX 956-585-2715

make beautiful things,” Ranney said. “Creative people encourage creative people.”

Members of the Winter Texan community, Ranney and Blocher expressed that they are happy to have a place like the Upper Valley Art League in the area, so creative expression of all kinds can be displayed for the public.

“I’m happy to see people here doing things,” Blocher said. “We’re letting people know that there’s more out there than watercolor and photography, there’s so many creative outlets, and a place like this shows them off.”

“I think it’s essential,” Ranney added. “You can only ride around in your golf cart for so long. And if you’re the sort of person who wants to be creating, you need a place to do that.”

should have been held and sexual assault training should have been given to educate faculty, students and administration.

He pointed out that the district holds workshops and informational sessions on the dangers of vaping, but haven’t made an attempt to address the issues of sexual assault and rape in a similar fashion.

The pair said the march was being organized in an attempt to “help the voices who haven’t been heard” and “force people who don’t want to acknowledge” victims to see them.

“There isn’t a peep about it,” Melgarejo said. “Every day they enforced dress code, they enforced attendance, they enforced literally everything else instead of emotionally supporting their students or advising them on what to do if something like this happens.”

Melgarejo said that if people are interested in participating on Feb. 1, they can sign up for the march at https:// www.eventbrite.com/e/voice-for-survivors-march-tickets-90899696439?aff=Voiceforsurvivors. The plan is to march along the sidewalk at Bannworth Park (located at 1822 N. Shary Rd.), but they will be posting updates on the final details at that link and on social media (Instagram: @lizettemelgarejo and @dantefdemarchi – Twitter: @zitlalit9 – Facebook: Dante F. Demarchi).

“I want to show that people do care,” Melgarejo said.

“Even if Sharyland won’t listen, the people are here to listen.

And we’re going to fight it.”

Mission First United Methodist Church

Sunday Services:

8:00 a.m. Informal 9:00 a.m. Contemporary 10:00 a.m. Sunday School 11:00 a.m. Traditional 5:00 p.m. Spanish Worship Join us for communion the First Sunday of every month.

Dinner with Friends every Friday @ 5:30pm

Everyone is Welcome!

Soup & Sub Fundraiser Feb. 25th, 2020

Mission TX 78572 (956) 585-1665

www.missionfumc.com

ATTENTION!

ROAD ATTENTION! CLOSURES

ROAD CLOSURES

Due to the festivities taking place with the 2020 Texas Citrus Due to the festivities Fiesta Parade thetaking place with SATURDAY, the 2019 Texas Citrus following roads will Fiesta Parade the be closed at the times SATURDAY, followingJANUARY roads will 25th, 2020 notated. be closed at the times JANUARY 26th, 20 2020 CITRUS FIESTA FUN FAIR notated.

FUN FAIR The Texas Citrus Fiesta Fun Fair has been relocated to the City of Mission Market Square co-located next to the Chamber of Commerce downtown Mission off Conway and 10th Street. The Fun Fair parking lot area will be located in the Fallas Paredes parking lot and the Leo Pena 2019 CITRUS FIESTA FUN FAIR Placita Park and can be acFUN FAIR cessed off Perkins Street ofFiesta the fair.

Thejust Texaswest Citrus Fun Fair has been relocated to the City of Missio PARADE OF ORANGES 3PM of Commerce downtown M Square co-located next to the •Chamber ConwayFiesta and 10th Street.

Fun Fair parking area will be locat Once again the Texas Citrus Parade of The Oranges will be onlot Conway Street; ParedesParkway parking lotand and the Leo South Pena Placita and canand be acc the parade will beginFallas on Griffin travel thruPark Conway Perkins Street just west of the fair. end at 1st Street. Guests are advised to park and line up north of 1st Street and PARADE OF ORANGES • 3PM South of Griffin Parkway.

Once again the Texas Citrus Fiesta Parade of Oranges will be on Conw

the parade will begin on Griffin Parkway and travel South thru Con end at 1st Street. Guests are advised to park and line up north of 1st S South of Griffin Parkway.

ROAD CLOSURES

9am • 100 & 200 Blocks of W. Tom Landry ROAD CLOSURES 9am of – 9thW. andBuss.

10th Street 100 & 200 Blocks 83 West from Conway to Perkins

10am – Thornton North to 2 Mile Line 12 pm all cross streets off Conway will be closed with the exceptio 10:30am • Griffin Parkway (495) • Kika De La Garza Dr. • 2 Mile and Conway to Thorwood • 6th street • 4th street 12:00pm • 1st street • All minors street between Mile & Exp. 83 the ones mentioned a At 2pm ALL streets2will be closed to include

Please make travel plans accordingly and allow yourself enough tim 2:00pm commute on Saturday the 26th, 2019 and arrive safely at your destina • At 2pm ALL major streets between 2-Mile & Exp. 8 patience is appreciated. including FM 495, Kika de la Garza Loop, 1st St. & 6th St.

Please make travel plans accordingly and allow yourself enough time in your commute on Saturday the 26th, 2019 and arrive safely at your destination your patience is appreciated.

page 6

January 24, 2020

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Go Coyotes, Lobos & Huskies! www.ptrgv.com/sports

SHARYLAND ISD BASKETBALL MVP’S

Go Rattlers & Diamondbacks!

SPORTSweek

Luciano Guerra Sports Editor

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

Mission Eagles’ wrestler Dante Lopez (black and maroon), who took first place in the 285 lb. weight class at Pioneer High School’s Grapefruit Bowl Wrestling Tournament, looks to his coach for instructions during his semifinal round match against Pioneer wrestler Orlando Camacho (gray and red).

Progress Times photo by Luciano Guerra.

Thank you Sharyland ISD School Board for Supporting our Athletes!

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL 2019-2020 SEASON

V

MVP OF THE WEEK

By John Hamann

VETERANS MEMORIAL HIGH SCHOOL

#15 Jacob Arenas

#11 Ronnie Cantu

MISSION HIGH SCHOOL

#11 Dominick Gomez

#21 Danielle Munoz

SHARYLAND HIGH SCHOOL #2 Alex Alvarez

#1 Daylah Vega

SHARYLAND PIONEER HIGH SCHOOL #3 Darik Briseno

#15 Natalie Reyes

LA JOYA HIGH SCHOOL #4 Juan Trujillo

#13 Melady Renteria

PALMVIEW HIGH SCHOOL #3 Josh Raya

#11 Cecilia Rangel

JUAREZ-LINCOLN HIGH SCHOOL #24 Cruz Gonzalez

#3 Jessyca Alvarez

Good Luck To All The Teams!

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

Wrestle fest

What lasts two days, involves over 60 teams and over 1,000 matches on nine mats in two gyms?

If you answered the Sharyland Pioneer Grapefruit Bowl Wrestling Championships you would be correct.

In addition, the tournament featured over 650 competitors, handed out over 150 medals and trophies, and t-shirts featuring Gary the Grappling Grapefruit, the tournament mascot. A total of 13 referees officiated the competition, each one working close to or over 100 matches.

Almost every Valley high school with a wrestling program, along with several Corpus Christi schools, descended on Sharyland Pioneer High School last weekend for the massive tournament in preparation for the upcoming district, regional and state tournaments that take place in February.

Pioneer coach Richard Eckley explained the reasoning behind the tournament. “To get kids as many matches as possible against as many different people as possible,” he said. “With district coming up a lot of people want to see what it is they need to work on in order to prepare for district.”

Sharyland High coach James Penbrook talked about the benefits of being in a big tournament. “When you get to regionals, it’s a long, grueling tournament. Kids are wrestling four or five matches a day and learning how to do that and how to have the mental focus to stay going 100 miles an hour on Saturday afternoon when you’ve wrestled five matches the day before and you’re on your fifth match of the day, that’s tough. It’s mentally training yourself how to do that.”

Mission Veterans coach Ben Yzaguirre liked the fact that his wrestlers would get a lot of matches and that they would face off against good competition.

La Joya girls coach Chris Hernandez felt that the mat time gained over the weekend would help his team gain experience.

La Joya boys coach Rudy Cavazos hoped the tournament would allow his team

to finish tuning up their technique while at the same time maintaining where they were at.

Six of the Big 7 schools attended, with the boys and girls teams from Sharyland Pioneer leading the way.

The Diamondbacks took top honors in the boys division edging out Los Fresnos for the title, getting individual championships from Angel Avila (126 lbs.) and Ethan Garza (220 lbs.)

The Lady Diamondbacks finished fifth in the girls division, tops among the six Big 7 schools entered. Edinburg North won the girls team title. Like the boys, the Lady Diamondbacks crowned two individual champions. Dani Roman won the 148 lb. division and Crystal Palafox was first in the 215 lb. division.

Other boys winners from the Big 7 included Alberto Mendoza (Sharyland High – 106 lbs.), Jacob Gonzalez (La Joya High – 145 lbs.) and Dante Lopez (Mission High – 285 lbs.).

Jerilyn Perelez (Sharyland High – 95 lbs.) and Natalie Rosas (La Joya High – 138 lbs.) won individual titles in the girls division.

Winning their respective weight classes required two days of wrestling and, at times, a lot of waiting.

Competitors were placed into groups for their Friday matches , with the top two from each group advancing to the championship brackets on Saturday, most of which consisted of 16 individuals.

All of this translated into six or seven matches for the weekend.

“It’s wrestling; you just got to battle through it,” said Lopez. “It’s one of those where you can’t stop.”

Gonzalez talked about the need for energy and preparing the right way so one isn’t tired when they get to their matches.

Perelez said she passes the time by listening to music and focusing on her next opponent in-between matches.

Rosas had six matches over the two days and said the key to getting through was just to keep fighting and keep putting your heart into it.

And while this was a big tournament, the bigger ones, in terms of continuing ones’ season are still to come.

The schools of the Big 7 will be competing in two dif-

ferent district tournaments and a number of talented individuals on both the boys and girls sides should advance beyond district.

La Joya, La Joya Juarez-Lincoln and Mission High are part of District 156A. Besides Gonzalez, La Joya Highs’ Andres Ochoa (130 lbs.) and Michael De La Cruz (152 lbs.) have had solid seasons. Mission High has Lopez as well as Nikolas Mann (160 lbs.) and Luis Balderas (170 lbs.) to help the team gather points.

Juarez-Lincoln is the defending district champion on the boy’s side and returns Carlos Doria (126 lbs.), Jose Cerda (132 lbs.) and Willi Bonilla (195 lbs.).

On the girl’s side La Joya has Rosas along with Brenda Moreno (95 lbs.). Juarez-Lincoln features Jazmin Munoz (110 lbs.) and Jessica Aldama (165 lbs.) Mission High has been led by Alma Galot (95 lbs.), Zeneida Vega (102 lbs.) and Alexia Sandoval (165 lbs.).

The Progress Times previously reported that the District 15-6A meet will be February 4 at McAllen Rowe High School but it will actually be at McAllen High School.

La Joya Palmview and Mission Veterans are part of District 16-5A along with Sharyland High and Sharyland Pioneer.

Palmview’s Joseph Zeiske finished second this past weekend at 138 lbs.

Mission Veterans returns Leeroy Villanueva in the 160 lb. division. Besides Mendoza, Sharyland High has Federico Rodriguez (120 lbs.) and Santino Pascual (170 lbs.).

Pioneer returns two individual district champions (Avila, Garza) to help defend their team district title from last year.

In the girls’ division, Palmview is led by Brooklyn Garza (128 lbs.) and Judith Rivas (165 lbs.). Vianni Dominguez (185 lbs.) is back for Mission Veterans. Perelez has led the Lady Rattlers all season and Pioneer, the defending district champions, have Roman and Palafox.

The District 16-5A meet is scheduled for February 5 and 6 at Edcouch-Elsa High School.

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La Joya Lady Coyotes’ wrestler Natalie Rosas (red), who took first place in the 138 lb. weight class at Pioneer High School’s Grapefruit Bowl Wrestling Tournament, looks to get the advantage over her semifinal opponent from Corpus Christi Carroll. Progress Times photo by Luciano Guerra.

January 24, 2020

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a really good job of; keeping it close and making some shots early; we were able to convert,” said Lady Lobos coach Anisa Reyna. “But in the second half we were not able to convert. We missed too many lay-ups in transition.”

The loss drops Palmview to 1-7 in district play.

They host Sharyland Pioneer tonight at 6:00 pm.

Like the girls’ game, the second game of the night was also tight for most the first half. It stayed that way until the end too. The Lobos jumped out to a 6-0 lead courtesy of a Gamez basket and four free throws but the Rattlers battled back to tie it on three different occasions before Palmview, aided by six more points from Gamez, closed out the half up 25-17.

By the end of the third the Rattlers had the deficit down to two but they never got any closer. In the fourth, the Lobos Josh Raya had two early baskets and Gamez scored another six points to secure the win, keeping Palmview tied for third place in the District 31-5A standings with The Palmview boys got a game high 25 points from Irving Gamez in the second PSJA Memorial. Sharyland game of the night to hold off Sharyland High 58-52, extending their winning streak Pioneer leads the district to four games and improving their district record to 4-2. Progress Times photo by with a 6-0 record followed Luciano Guerra.

by Mission Veterans at 5-1.

The Lobos started off district 0-2, losing to Mission Veterans and PSJA Memorial. They haven’t lost since.

“We had a team meeting and some bonding going on,” said Lobos coach Albert Carrillo. “We felt like in the middle of the season we kind of lost that motivation, that drive we had early in the season. We talked about it didn’t change where the and I started hitting my

By John Hamann and re-established our goals; Lady Rattlers are in regards shots.”

The races for basketball to the standings, but the Marissa Jones was a key reminded us what we wantplayoff spots are heating up win moved them closer to on both ends of the floor, ed to accomplish this season. for the schools of the Big 7 the coveted fourth and final distributing the ball to the They’ve been reacting pretty with a pair of teams in need playoff spot, just one game teams’ shooters on the one well.”

“We’ve got a bunch of of wins to either get, or stay, behind Mission Veterans. end and rebounding at the seniors on this team,” said in the hunt doing just that Sharyland Pioneer leads the other. this past Tuesday night at district with an 8-0 record.

“I’m just trying to help Freddy Flores. “We realized Sharyland High School. “(We’re) back to .500,” out with the offense, move it’s our last ride so we had to The Lady Rattlers of said Sharyland coach Mon- the ball around as much as put it together. We all want Sharyland High got seven ica Meza. “It means we’re possible,” said Jones. “I the same goal; we all want to points in the second half still fighting; we’re still think that’s (rebounding) my be in the playoffs.”

Next up for the Lobos is from Deyla Vega and solid alive. It was a good start to biggest role. To try and get team defense after halftime the second round.” in there, try to help out my a home game with Sharyland as well to pull away from a It was a good all-around teammates as much as I can.” Pioneer tonight at 7:30 pm.

Tuesday night’s loss determined Palmview squad performance from the Lady Next up for the Lady Rat35-17 and even their District Rattlers. Up only 18-15 early tlers is a trip to Roma tonight dropped Sharyland to 1-5 31-5A record at 4-4. in the third quarter, Shary- to take on the Lady Gladia- in district but they gave the The Palmview boys got land went on an 11-0 run tors. Tip-off is scheduled for Lobos everything they could handle and showed a noticea game high 25 points from over the rest of the quarter 6:00 pm.

Irving Gamez in the second and into the fourth to take The Lady Lobos, fresh able improvement from their game of the night to hold off control. Vega scored the first off their first district win last play earlier in the season.

Sharyland High 58-52, ex- seven of the run and Kayla Friday, put up a solid effort Alex Alvarez led the team tending their winning streak Sanchez nailed a three point- throughout the first half and with 21 points for the night, to four games and improving er at the end of it to make into the third on two three 17 in the second half.

“The guys are staying their district record to 4-2. it 29-15. Vega finished the pointers from Ximena Nunez After starting their district night as the games’ leading but the team managed only positive,” said Rattlers coach campaign 2-0, the Lady Rat- scorer with 11. five second half points on Danny Moran. “They’re dotlers came in having dropped “I started off not too one field goal and three free ing all of the things we tell them to do. They’re fighting. four of their last five, falling good,” said Vega, “but once throws. to fifth place in the stand- I got warmed up and every“We wanted to control the The little things are going to ings. Tuesday night’s results thing it started going good clock which I thought we did win you games and we just didn’t close out those little things. That’s what happens in these close games. You have to be perfect on the little things.”

The next opportunity for the Rattlers is tonight when they travel to Roma for a 7:30 pm game with the Glading freshman class who for tickets of equal or less- iators.

By Jonah Goldberg have received Top Schol- er value and are available EDINBURG – For the arship Awards worth up to at the following locations fourth consecutive year, $40,000 have been invited while supplies last: Edinthe UTRGV Department of by UTRGV Strategic En- burg – Golden Chick, HaciIntercollegiate Athletics is rollment and will be honored enda Ford, Taco Palenque, TownePlace Suites, Univergiving away 500 #RallyThe- throughout the game.

The coaching staffs of sity Draft House, Navy Army Valley T-shirts, and is offering “buy one, get one free” both teams will be wearing Community Credit Union vouchers at corporate partner sneakers with their suits as and Walk On’s; McAllen part of Coaches vs. Cancer’s McAllen Chamber of Comlocations.

The event is part of Suits and Sneakers Week, to merce; and Pharr – Topgolf.

Vouchers can be redeemed UTRGV Athletics’ fourth help raise awareness for the at the box office on game day annual “Pack the House” fight against cancer.

The Pack the House party or by contacting the UTRGV night for the men's basketball game against New Mex- starts at 5:30 p.m. at Vaquero Fan Relationship Manageico State. The game is 7 p.m. Village, the newly-opened ment Center (FRMC) team Saturday, Jan. 25, at the re- community space located in of Carlos Muñoz at 956-665cently renovated UTRGV the courtyard in front of the 3747 and Tiffany Ochoa at Fieldhouse.

956-665-3415, or through Fieldhouse.

The vouchers are good email at tickets@utrgv.edu.

Members of the incom-

Back on track

Sharyland girls, Palmview boys get big wins

UTRGV looking to ‘Pack the House’ for Jan. 25 basketball game

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The Lady Rattlers of Sharyland High got 10 points in the second half from Deyla Vega and solid team defense after halftime as well to pull away from a determined Palmview squad 35-17 and even their District 30-5A record at 4-4 tonight at Sharyland High School.

Progress Times photo by Luciano Guerra.

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page 8

Programs highlighted at MEDC meeting

By Jose De Leon III The Mission Economic Development Corporation will continue to break new ground in computer science education thanks to a partnership with a New Yorkbased organization.

At their Tuesday meeting, MEDC directors approved a $15,000 matching grant from CSforAll, a non-profit that advocates for computer science education in public schools. With the grant, the MEDC will create a new program - CSforRGV - to promote computer science education in the area according to MEDC Director of Social Impact Cristina Garza.

“We are putting forward a new way of thinking when it comes to computer science education,” Garza said.

“This is the beginning of what we hope to be a much larger community of people from the RGV who want to create regional computer science programming.”

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January 24, 2020

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In its first year, CSforRGV will enact what Garza calls a “low coding jam,” a coding event for kids with autism and other neurodiverse individuals this coming March.

“We’d be the first in the Valley to have a coding program like this. When it comes to diversity, you can’t say we’re providing computer science to all if we aren’t targeting everyone,” Garza said.

CSforRGV will also fund “jam in a box,” named after the “jam” Google coding competitions. As part of “jam in the box” schools all over the Valley will receive kits on how to run a coding event in school even with a lack of a computer or IT background, Garza said.

“I hope this kicks off a mindset of collaboration between regions rather than competition,” Garza said.

“CSforRGV is something that in the future won’t necessarily be led by the

Mission EDC, but instead becomes a collaborative organization and project that can have voices and leaders and involvement from people interested in the state of computer science education in the Valley.”

CSforRGV is the latest program under the MEDC banner that prioritize the education and professional development of residents to ensure that for decades to come, they are preparing the public for the types of job being provided to them, Garza said.

Garza presented to the MEDC board an overview of the programs she oversees such as the CyberMission program which provides training and certifications for those who want a career in the technology field, CREW, which is a year-long internship program for high school girls who learn business skills while gaining the confidence to run a business, and Ruby Red Ventures, the

MEDC’s signature program which funds and supports small businesses.

Thanks to these programs, the MEDC was awarded the 2019 Champion of Computer Science Award by Code. org and the 2019 TML Management Innovation Award for the Ruby Red Ventures Program. These programs also had a hand in the city of Mission being named a 2019 All American City, Garza said.

“All those programs are the first of their kind and we hope they expand to other parts of the Valley and set the example of what progress looks like in the RGV,” Garza said. “They are the first in the Valley to have such an initiative that allowed us to excel as innovators in the area of workforce development, being able to rethink what economic development can do for its community and rethink the ways in which we engage with our residents.”

ABUSE CLAIMS

of them criticized the district and brought up similar incidents-alleging a history of cover ups and abuse throughout the years. The meeting, which was unusually packed, required those who wished to participate in the public portion of the meeting to sign up before the meeting began, confusing several attendees.

The district’s public comment policy does not allow the public policy portion of the agenda to exceed 30 minutes.

With a dozen speakers participating, the district exceeded that time limit.

“If these allegations are proven to be true, they need to be dealt with in a swift and just manner,” Alejandro Rodriguez, a Mission resident told the board. “If there’s been a case of anyone covering it up, those folks should be fired and let the criminal justice system deal with it. I understand trying to keep things in house, but when you get to allegations this serious, we cannot put up with it.

All of you are parents, there’s no reason anyone here should put up with this.”

Due to district policy, the board could

not respond to these claims during the meeting and declined to comment afterward.

The district’s silence on this issue, according to a local lawyer not affiliated with the district, is due to legal issues preventing the district from disclosing information that could violate the privacy of a student.

A violation of FERPA laws could lead to a hefty penalty for school district’s such as the withholding of federal funds that make up as much as 20 percent of a school district’s total budget, said Ben Castillo.

“That’s why school districts are very careful when it comes to issues such as this regarding students and incidents, they have to be careful with what they say to not violate that law,” Castillo said. “FERPA laws applies to all students even if they are no longer minors. They’re getting beat up by the community at these board meetings and though they’re under so much pressure to release this information-they can’t.”

With parents expressing outrage on

social media, Castillo said that parents are only looking out for their children’s best interests.

“They just want their kids to be safe at school, that message is being made clear to the board that parents want student safety ensured,” Castillo said. “I’m a parent too, I get it. You’re expressing concerns over student safety, there’s nothing wrong with that.”

This coming May, the school board will have an election for its Place 1 and 2 members, Ricky Longoria and Julio Cerda. Rolando Garcia, a parent who said he had four children and two grandchildren graduate from the school district and still has two other grandchildren attending, reminded board members of their duty to the public.

“I’ve never felt the need to come to a school board meeting because I’ve always felt the people we’ve elected are good enough, competent enough to take care of us,” Garcia said. “If you all don’t do your job, you will be replaced.”

from pg. 1

MCISD NEWS

they don’t want to commit that long,” Ruiz said. “The benefit that we have right now is that sponsors are reaching out to us rather than us reaching out to them. So the district has a competitive advantage that vendors are wanting to come to the stadium.”

Administration is earmarking $160,000 in advertising revenue from the scoreboard annually. Perez stressed that with hard work from administration, they have already begun securing advertising funding from companies throughout the area, and hope to regain all the expenditures in five years rather than ten.

“We want to make it very clear that no taxpayer funding will be used for this project, it will be dependent solely on advertising,” Perez said. “The sky is the limit on advertising, so we’re going to try and pay it in half of the time possibly. We’re really going to do a lot of legwork.”

The board approved the project funding unanimous-

Notices Paul Garcia MISSION – Paula Sandoval Garcia, 77, Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2020, at Rio Grande Regional Hospital in McAllen.

Abel Garza MISSION – Abel Angel Garza, 37, passed away on Friday, Jan. 17, 2020, in San Antonio.

Natividad Gonzalez MISSION – Natividad Gonzalez, 91, passed away on Friday, Jan. 17, 2020, at McAllen Medical Center.

Priscilla Gonzalez MISSION – Priscilla Gonzalez, 45, passed away on Sunday, Jan. 17, 2020, at Doctor’s Hospital in Edinburg.

Vicente Martinez MISSION – Vicente Martinez, 76, passed away on Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2020, at Mission Regional Medical Center.

Joan Ortenstone MISSION – Joan M. Orten-

ly. The old scoreboard parts will be sold in an auction.

Additionally, they approved an expansion of the Pre-K 3 program, which was implemented in select schools last year. MCISD will be expanding these services to all elementary campuses, and have included eligibility for the children of district employees.

Currently, the program serves children who have turned three or four by Sept.

1 of the current school year and meet the eligibility criteria established by TEA. 149 students are enrolled in the program right now over seven classrooms in the district.

MCISD has extended the eligibility for students of district employees who do not meet the criteria as an employee benefit.

Because of the socioeconomic standing of many MCISD families, it is difficult to find reliable childcare that is affordable. The district is hoping to serve the needs of the community at a wider level.

stone, 86, passed away on Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2020, at Rio Grande Regional Hospital in McAllen.

Ricardo Rivera ALTON – Ricardo Ramon Rivera, 65, passed away on Friday, Jan. 17, 2020, at Mission Regional Medical Center.

Jose Rodriguez MISSION – Jose Rodriguez, 84, passed away on Sunday, Jan. 19, 2020, at his home.

Laura Rodriguez MISSION – Laura Rodriguez, 34, passed away on Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2020, at T. Boone Pickens Hospice in Dallas.

Facundo Salinas LA JOYA – Facundo Campos Salinas, 72, passed away on Friday, Jan. 17, 2020, in Zapata County.

Dora Villarreal MISSION – Dora C. Villarreal, 81 passed away on Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2020 at Mission Regional Medical Center.

January 24, 2020

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chairs and 4 regular chairs, $750, call 956-445-7562 and leave message if no answer.

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PUBLIC NOTICE

The City of Alton will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, February 11, 2020 at 6:30 p.m. at the City Hall Legislative Chambers located at 509 S. Alton Boulevard to consider the following request: Si desea información en español, llame al departamento de Planeación de la Ciudad de Alton, (956) 432-0760.

REZONE REQUEST: Meza Homes, Inc., is requesting to Rezone 1001 North Trosper Road, legally described as being an 18.02 acres out of Lot 43-4, West Addition to Sharyland Subdivision, Alton, Hidalgo County, Texas from “R-1” Single Family Residential-Large Lot District to “D” Duplex/Fourplex District.

The public is invited to attend or file written support for or opposition to this application by 12:00 noon on February 11, 2020, for the Planning and Zoning and the City Commission.

For questions please call Janie Flores, City of Alton Planning Department at (956) 432-0760.

Notice of Public Hearing Mission Economic Development Corporation Notice is hereby given that the Mission Economic Development Corporation will conduct a public hearing on February 18, 2020, at 5:30 p.m., at the Center for Education and Economic Development, 801 N. Bryan Road, Mission, Texas 78572, to consider the following project or projects during the proposed fiscal year 2019-2020: 1) Cantu Bungalows dba The Bungalows, for a development located at 3700 Plantation Grove Boulevard, Mission, Texas 78572, in an amount of $50,000 each year for 10 years; and 2) A sales tax reimbursement to A-S 135 Hwy 83-Bryan Rd., L.P., for a development to be located at 1405 E. Expressway 83, Mission, Texas 78572, in an amount not to exceed $1.75 million over a period of 30 years. Anyone interested is invited to attend and present their comments.

Date of publication: January 24, 2020 Anna Carrillo City Secretary

dogs, El Pase Feed Store, (www.happyjackinc.com).

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PUBLIC NOTICE CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT

Hidalgo County Irrigation District No. 6 (“HCID #6”) is soliciting proposals from qualified firms of certified public accountants to audit HCID # 6’s financial statements for the fiscal year ending December 2019.

Please submit your sealed proposal of services and a statement of qualifications for the proposed services to the address below: HCID #6 Attn: Board President 3735 N. FM 492 Mission, Texas 78573 Proposals shall be received by HCID #6 no later than 3:00 p.m. on February 14, 2020.

Requests for Qualifications package may be obtained at the HCID #6 office during normal business hours at the same address as stated above.

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

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320 S. Stewart Blvd. • Alton, TX 78573 (956) 609-3100 If you wish to file a Civil Rights program complaint of discrimination, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, found online at http:/www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint)_filing_cust.html, or at any USDA office, or call (866) 632-9992 to request the form. You may also write a letter containing all of the information requested in the form. Send your completed complaint form or letter to us by mail at U.S. Department of Agriculture, Director, Office of Adjudication, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington D.C. 20250-9410, by fax (202) 690-7442 or email at program. intake@usda.gov.

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Pt Progress times For the latest news and updates www.ptrgv.com

Your Hometown Newspaper, Bringing Communities Together.

MISSION ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION NOTICE OF INTENTION BUDGET AMENDMENT TO FY 2019-2020 BUDGET TAKE NOTICE that the Mission Economic Development Corporation of the City of Mission, (the “MEDC”), shall convene not earlier than 60 days after first publishing this notice and shall consider authorizing a Budget Amendment to the fiscal year 2019-2020 Budget, as hereinafter described, pursuant to the provisions of V.T.C.A. Local Government Code Sections 505.001 et seq. The MEDC is authorized on behalf of the City of Mission, Texas to undertake the Project or Projects by paying the cost of the Project or Projects with sales tax revenues authorized under said Local Government Code sections.

The Board of Directors of the MEDC will determine whether the Project or Projects will be undertaken and whether it will finance the cost of the Project or Projects with proceeds from sales tax revenues.

The Project or Projects shall consist of the following: 1) Cantu Bungalows dba The Bungalows, for a development located at 3700 Plantation Grove Boulevard, Mission, Texas 78572, in an amount of $50,000 each year for 10 years; and 2) A sales tax reimbursement to A-S 135 Hwy 83-Bryan Rd., L.P., for a development to be located at 1405 E. Expressway 83, Mission, Texas 78572, in an amount not to exceed $1.75 million over a period of 30 years.

Date of publication: January 24, 2020 Anna Carrillo City Secretary

Notice to Lender Notice to: Bryceidee Leos, 204 Viento Dorado, Mission, Texas, 78572. The records of the Mission Historical Museum reflect that you have property on loan to it. The property was received by the museum on November 3, 2016.

The museum wishes to terminate the loan. You must contact the museum, provide proof of your ownership, and make arrangements to collect the property. Please contact Vernon Weckbacher, Archivist/Curator, at the Mission Historical Museum, 900 Doherty Ave., Mission, Texas, 78572 (telephone 956-580-8646). If you fail to do so within 65 days after the date of this notice, you will be deemed to have donated the property to the museum. See Chapter 80, Texas Property Code.

HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF MISSION 1300 EAST 8TH STREET MISSION, TEXAS 78572

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

The Housing Authority of the City of Mission is accepting applications for the position of Executive Director. A job description, qualifications required and applications may be requested by calling (956)585-9747. Please submit all required documents in a sealed envelope addressed to: Mrs. Connie Garza, Chair Housing Authority of The City of Mission 1300 East 8th Street Mission, TX 78572 The Housing Authority of the City of Mission is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against anyone with regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, age, disability or sexual orientation. The deadline to apply is 5:00 PM January 30, 2020. The Housing Authority of the City of Mission encourages females and minorities to apply.

A.R. Sandoval Interim Executive Director PUBLIC NOTICE

The City of Alton will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, February 11, 2020 at 6:30 p.m. at the City Hall Legislative Chambers located at 509 S. Alton Boulevard to consider the following request: Si desea información en español, llame al departamento de Planeación de la Ciudad de Alton, (956) 432-0760.

REZONE REQUEST: Galilee Properties LLC is requesting to Rezone three (3) tracts at the 800 Block of Trosper Road, from “R-1” Single Family Residential-Large Lot District to “R-2” Single Family Residential-Standard Lot District as legally described as follows: Tract I: being a 9.620 acre tract of land, out of 12.17 acre tract out of Lots 42-5, 43-5 and a portion of abandoned Canal Right-of-Way, West Addition to Sharyland Subdivision, Hidalgo County, Texas; Tract II: being a 1.727 acre tract of land, out of 12.17 acre tract out of Lots 42-5, 43-5 and a portion of abandoned Canal Right-of-Way, West Addition to Sharyland Subdivision, Hidalgo County, Texas; Tract III: being a 0.826 of an acre tract of land, out of 12.17 acre tract out of Lots 42-5, 43-5 and a portion of abandoned Canal Right-of-Way, West Addition to Sharyland Subdivision, Hidalgo County, Texas.

The public is invited to attend or file written support for or opposition to this application by 12:00 noon on February 11, 2020, for the Planning and Zoning and the City Commission.

For questions please call Janie Flores, City of Alton Planning Department at (956) 432-0760.

page 10

January 24, 2020

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