February 5, 2016 - Progress Times Issue by Progress Times

Texas Citrus Fiesta Coverage Inside See Section B Friday, February 5, 2016

www.ptrgv.com | 50 Cents

HEADLINE

MUÑOZ TAKES ON CHALLENGER

By Lea Victoria Juarez Committee and the House Committee on Local and he two candidates Consent Calendars. running for District The challenger is Abra36 state representa- ham Padron, CEO of a famitive both feel that their ex- ly-owned insurance business. perience in business will be For 18 years, Padron has their advantage in the March nurtured his business, which 1 election. However, one has 11 locations that extend comes from a family with from Brownsville to Laredo. background in government, Although he has previously the other has only recently looked at getting into politics, entered the political circuit. he said the timing was never Attorney Sergio Muñoz right until now. Jr. is the incumbent. He has “I’m at a good point in my served as the District 36 life healthwise, energy-wise state rep since 2010, and is and financially,” Padron said. on the House Appropriations “I’m ready to serve now, I’m Committee, House Insurance ready to make changes now,

Sergio Muñoz Jr.

Abraham Padron

I’m ready to give 100 percent of myself to this position.” After separately reaching out to constituents, the main

concerns they heard regarded education, economic standing and healthcare. In education, Muñoz said

‘A culture of creativity’

Mission EDC devises networking hub

By Lea Victoria Juarez lex Meade has a specific vision in mind for Mission. By drawing on inspiration from locations like Austin and Washington D.C., he plans to change the trajectory of the city. What was once K-Mart located next to city hall, will now be the CEED – Center for Education and Economic Development. It’s a one-stop shop for the Mission Economic Development Corporation’s Ruby Red Ventures, Code the Town and Enginuity programs. Ruby Red is for those who want to create their own startup. In December, locals Jennifer and Sam Shipp were featured on Good Morning America for an invention that was assisted through the Ventures program. Code the Town began in 2014 and was nationally recognized as a Bright Spot in Hispanic Education. More

than 1,000 students learned how to program computers in a year’s time, and students developed more than 2,100 technology apps. Enginuity connects elementary students with local employer Royal Technologies, where they are exposed to opportunities in engineering, design and manufacturing. After four years of rolling out these initiatives, the Mission EDC will soon be able to house all their programs under one roof. But for Meade, the chief executive officer, this is just another step to reaching his goal. “To kind of bring everything into perspective...what we’ve done here by linking entrepreneurship and STEM education, we’re trying to create a culture of creativity and an open-minded, hip, cool culture,” he said. His ideas are based off of findings from economist Richard Florida, who states in his book “The Rise of the

Creative Class,” that Millennials and Generation X move to specific locations not because of job opportunity, but because they liked the communities. The MEDC has also been focusing on downtown to contribute to the culture of creativity. The organization invested in improving streetscapes, sidewalks and grants that allow for people to paint the facade.

Mission EDC also has grants for businesses that are in line with the creative theme such as a music store, book store, coffee shop, a specialty grocery store restaurant. The grant will pay rent for up to six months, so the owner can use the money on successfully running the business. But Meade’s hope is that

See EDC 10A

Top: The building plan for the Center for Education and Economic Development. Above: A mock photo of what the CEED should resemble once the building is completed. Courtesy of Mission EDC

he’s most proud of his role in restoring budget for the the Bachelors of Applied Technology Program at South Texas College, the Dropout Recovery Program between high schools and community colleges and the creation of the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley and medical school. The goal for himself and other state representatives in the Valley is to continue expanding educational opportunities. “We represent our respective districts, but there are issues sometimes that have

no boundaries, and that is making the Valley better as a whole,” Muñoz said. “We want to not only challenge the status quo but we want to do things where we know that we might not see the effect in the next two years or four years, but further down the line.” Padron said he wants to tackle issues in public schooling, focusing on accountability, funding and college readiness. He spoke of absolving contract extensions beyond a board’s serving term and in-

See STATE REP 10A

Koy Detmer returns to Mission

By Luciano Guerra he Valley’s all-time leading passer is returning to his alma-mater. During a special MCISD school board meeting Monday morning, former Mission Eagles’ standout quarterback Koy Detmer was hired as the new head football coach and athletic coordinator at Mission High School. Detmer originally came to Mission in 1989 as a high school freshman when his father, Sonny Detmer, was hired as the Eagles’ head football coach. Koy went on to have a record breaking high school career with 8,221 passing yards and 82 touchdown passes. After graduating from Mission High in 1992, Detmer went on to play at the University of Colorado for four years, where he passed for 5,390 yards, before being drafted in the seventh round of the 1997 NFL draft by the Philadelphia Eagles. During his nine-year career with the Eagles, which he spent mostly as a back-up to Donovan McNabb, Detmer completed 184 of 354 pass attempts for 1,944 yards and 10 touchdowns. Most recently, Detmer spent the last six years as an assistant coach and offensive coordinator at Somerset High School under his father, who has been the Bulldogs’ head coach since 2008. During his tenure at Somerset, the Bulldogs posted an overall record of 48-20 and qualified for the playoffs all six years. Monday evening Detmer made the drive from Somerset to Mission where he met with MCISD superintendent Ricardo Lopez and Mission athletic director Joe R. Sanchez to finalize the details of his hiring and to tour the new and improved Lee Field House and the recent improvements to Tom Landry Stadium. Afterwards he took a few minutes to grant this sports writer an exclusive in-

Koy Detmer

terview. “I came down here just for the night and I have to go back in the morning,” Detmer said. “This week I’m going to be taking time to transition and taking care of paperwork. I’m hoping to get started next Monday officially.” Being back at Tom Landry Stadium brought back a lot of memories for Detmer. When asked what the highlight of his high school career at Mission was, Detmer said, “My junior year when we went to the state semifinals and we played Aldine at the Astrodome was obviously a big moment for the whole team and certainly for me. “If I remember right,” Detmer continued, “the Mission fans set a record for the highest attendance ever to watch a high school football game at the Astrodome at that game. But just having the opportunity to play down here and the way the whole community got behind the team with sellout crowds every week was such a fun time and a great experience for me.” Detmer’s previous visit to Tom Landry Stadium took place four years ago when he, as an assistant coach for

See DETMER 10A

INSIDE

Mission High recognized by NFL

INDEX

Sharyland takes two from Patriots

Girl Power Rally

MHS is named to the Super Bowl High School Honor Roll three times and receives golden footballs celebrating former players.

The Lady Patriots fell to the Lady Rattlers by a score of 5-0 and the Patriots boys fell to the Rattlers 5-2.

Mission CISD holds motivational event designed to empower and challenge junior high school girls in the district.

See story page 5A

See story page 6A

See story page 7A

Entertainment | pg. 2A

Lifestyle | pg. 3A

Opinion | pg.4A

Sports | pg. 6A

Obituaries | pg. 8A

Classifieds | pg. 9A

entertainment Three country legends together—one night only

overs of country music will want to make plans to see three country music legends when the Riverside Club brings Moe Bandy, Janie Fricke and T.G. Sheppard together in a classic country concert. They are coming together on stage Saturday, Feb. 20, at the Boggus Ford Event Center, 3000 N. Cage Blvd, in Pharr. With 10 number one hits, 40 Top Ten hits, and five gold albums, Moe Bandy is one of the all-time leading classic country music performers. Hits like “Bandy, the Rodeo Clown,” “Hank Williams, You Wrote My Life,” and “It’s a Cheatin’ Situation,” propelled him to the top of the country music industry. Originally from San Antonio Bandy rode bulls and worked as a sheet metal worker while playing in

honky-tonks at night. In 1972, he met record producer Ray Baker who agreed to produce Moe if he paid for the recording session. Moe’s first hit, “I Started Hating Cheatin’ Songs Today,” came out of that session. He followed with “It Was Always So Easy” (to find an unhappy woman). Although the style of music was changing, he continued to succeed with his classic Texas Honky-tonk style of music and his distinctive voice. Jane Fricke was a popular country artist in the 1980s. Her career started while singing jingles in college where she soon found herself in demand as a session vocalist. She paired with Johnny Duncan for duets, including “Thinkin’ of a Rendezvous,” which went to number one for them. Janie got her solo start in 1977 but it was not until 1981 when she landed two

top five hits, “ Down to My Last Broken Heart” and “I’ll Need Someone to Hold Me” when she had her “breakout year.” From 1982-84 she had six number one hits including “Tell Me a Lie” and “Your Heart’s Not in It.” T.G. Sheppard is ranked among the top 100 country artists of all time with 21 number one hits. He is known for hits like the “Last Cheaters Waltz’ and “Do You Wanna Go To Heaven?” He left home at the age of 15 to start his musical career. Traveling to Memphis he worked with several bands learning how to put his own touch on songs. Using the name Brian Stacy, he released “High School Days,” a song that earned him a chance to open for acts like The Animals, Jan & Dean and the Beach Boys. In 1974 his career got a start. He was working as a

inter Texans who enjoy seeing the colorful dances typical of Mexico while visiting the Rio Grande Valley can look no further than the performances put on by the La Joya Independent School District. There are three major spring concerts coming in the next few weeks. Juarez-Lincoln High School will perform Feb. 6 at 2 and 7 p.m. and Feb. 7 at 2 p.m. Palmview High School Folklorico and Mariachi will perform Feb. 13 at 2 and 7 p.m. and Feb. 14 at 2 p.m. La Joya High School Folklorico and Mariachi performances

are Feb. 20 at 2 and 7 p.m. and Feb. 21 at 2 p.m. The La Joya Independent School District is 99 percent Hispanic and has many first and second American generation students. The district pioneered the folkloric dance and mariachi program over 30 years ago as a way of offering students something from the culture they left back in Mexico and as a way to keep students in school. The program was a hit from the beginning; there was nothing else like it anywhere. The first group of students was invited the Cannes Festival in France. The communi-

ty managed to raise the money and suddenly the whole world opened up for these students, many of whom might not have stayed in school. The program spread like wildfire across states along the border where Hispanic student populations were high, and gradually across the nation in districts with high Hispanic student populations. Many of the original students in the LJISD program are now teachers in districts around the country creating programs of their own. But when competitions come up, La Joya ISD students retain the honor of be-

er in the bullfight history of Santa Maria have the bulls been this size. The danger is always there when a matador faces big bulls that are armed like these five-year-old bulls will be. Mexico’s top-ranking matador, Guillermo Ibarra, was tossed and nearly wounded by the bull at the

successful record promoter putting songs with successful artists. Unable to Sell Bobby David’s ”Devil in the Bottle,” to an artist, he cut it himself. He headed to Nashville and signed with Motown, when the record label was trying to get a start in country music. While working for RCA records T.G. became friends with Elvis Presley. Elvis gave him his first bus tour and the ability to hit the road full time. In 1976, he was named “Best New Male Artist” by Cashbox. He signed with Warner Brothers when Motown got out of country music and had 14 consecutive number one hits. In 1982 he was named Music City News “Most Promising Male Vocalist.” Make plans to see this three-star lineup. Doors open at 6 p.m. Tickets are available at the Riverside Club, the Boggus box office, ticketmaster.com or by calling 800745-3000.

La Joya presents folklorico, mariachi performances

ing among the best, upholding the districts’ reputation. LJISD students still get special invitations to travel to perform around the country (Like President Obama’s inauguration) as well as international invitations. All performances will be held at the Alejandro H. Saenz Performing Arts Center, 604 N. Coyote Drive, in La Joya. Tickets are $8. Ticket can be purchase at the PAC Box Office, Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to12 p.m. and 1 to 4 p.m. For information, call 323-2897 or 323-2898.

Toughest bulls of the season coming to Santa Maria

By Kathy Olivarez A GLORIA – Santa Maria Bullring in La Gloria presents bulls from Rancho Viejo, in Txcala, Mexico for the Feb. 14 event in its third season of world class bloodless bullfight bulls. Promising to be the fight of the season, nev-

Jan. 10 bullfight. He suffered an exterior non-entry horn wound that will require surgery to repair the damage to his thigh. These are not serious when received. It is the next day when matadors suffer from the aftermath of swollen tissue from the injuries. In fact, Ibarra went on to perform a tremendous second act with the bull. Big bulls are tough, but are so very impressive when they are faced by master matadors such as the upcoming event with Castaneda and Pepe Murillo. Matador Pepe Murillo, ranked among the top 10 bullfighters in Mexico, is a dynamic young man that excites the crowd with his bravery, fighting on his knees and sometimes passing the bulls while looking up at the fans, not at the bull. He is a true “Dominador” (dominator). Before the bullfight at 3 p.m. Alexa Michelle Posas, an exciting young mariachi

singer from Roma, will again perform. She has wowed the fans at the last two events. She won a state championship in San Antonio, competing with hundreds of singers for the top award. Mario Ordaz and his Andalusian horses will perform again as another special part of the day’s entertainment. When Mario sings, his horses dance. He was part of the Rose Parade two years ago Gates open at 1 p.m. Food service starts at 1:30. Pre-bullfight entertainment starts at 3:15, and the bullfight starts at 4 p.m. Tickets are available at the Progress Times in Mission. Call 580-7800 to reserve tickets. They are also at Border Tire at Business 83 and Mayberry Road in Mission. Call 585-8473. Reservations can also be made by calling the bullring at 4813300. Payment can be made upon arrival.

Making the grade

OLLEGE STATION – Texas A&M University has named Mission area students to its Dean’s Honor Roll and Distinguished Student lists for the fall semester. Honor Roll students take at least 15 semester hours during the fall semester and maintain a 3.75 or higher grade point. Distinguished Students must earn 3.5 to

3.74 GPR while taking at least 15 hours. Named to the Dean’s Honor Roll were Esmeralda Garcia of Peñitas, and Laura A. Guerra, Orlando Reyes, Thomas Rivera and Mariana Vargas, all of Mission. Designated as Distinguished Students were Yvette Garcia, Alexandra R. Hill, Megan Mills and Hermione Y. Monie, all of Mission.

February 5, 2016

page 2A

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

NEWS | SPORTS | ENTERTAINMENT | PHOTOS

Coming Attractions

at 580-8646 or by email at programs@missionmuseum.org. February 13 – The Seventh Annual Puppy Love Gala takes place at the McAllen Convention Center from 6 to10 p.m. The fundraising event features an evening of live, blackboard, and silent auctions and dinner. Advance registration is required and limited group seating is available. For information or to purchase a reservation please contact Palm Valley Animal Center at 686-1141. To adopt a pet, make a donation or for more information, call the same number, visit pvaconline. com or stop by at 2501 W. Trenton Rd. in Edinburg. February 13 – The Rio Grande Valley Mennonite Relief Sale, hosted by over 15 Mennonite and Mennonite Brethren churches, will be held at the Rio Grande Bible Institute (RGBI). There will be an auction, food court, craft bazaar, garage sale and children’s games. Breakfast will be sold in the food court at 7 a.m. The garage sale will open at 8 a.m. Auctioning will begin at 10 a.m., and lunch will be sold at 11 a.m. The craft bazaar, children’s games and live music will be available throughout the day. All activities will end at 2 p.m. Admission is free. For more information, contact Quinn Brenneke at qbrenneke@gmail.com or 260-385-2657. February 14 – Stop by the Gladys Porter Zoo, 500 Ringgold in Brownsville, for a “Valentine’s Day” themed Animal Play Day to watch the animals interact with special treats and enrichment items. It begins at 11 a.m. at the Gorilla Island and move to the surrounding exhibits throughout the day. It is included in the regular price of general admission. For information, call 546-7187 or visit gpz.org February 16 – Dorothy A. Lund Nelson will present a program on the “Orphan Train Riders” at Fiesta Village, 205 S. Stewart Rd. Open to the general public and to all ages, admission is $5. Fiesta Village is located at 205 S. Stewart Rd. in Mission. February 18 – The John Deere Waterloo, Iowa annual Reunion will be held at 11:30 a.m. at Gatti’s Pizza, 4100 N. 2nd St. in McAllen. For employees’ spouses are welcomed. For information, call 584-2654. (For daily events and upcoming weeks, see the full calendar at ptrgv.com.)

lifestyle Events Calendar

Feb ruary 5 – The awards show for the Mission Historical Museum’s annual Mission Quilt Show will be held at 2 p.m. with a special “Turning of the Quilts” program. Anyone who has an antique quilt they would like shown, can contact museum archivist Vernon Weckbacher at 534-5679 or stop by the museum. The public is invited to view the display and to attend the program. Located at 900 Doherty, the museum is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Friday, and 10 a.m.to 2 p.m. on Saturday. Admission is free. Feb ruary 5 – The Rio Grande Valley Quilt Guild will be offering classes as part of their “Schoolhouse” program. The classes held on Fridays, run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the South Texas College campus in Weslaco, Building G. Classes are $10 for members and $35 for non-members. The $25 pays for membership in the RGV Quilt Guild. Carol Hovar will present “Little Bunny Foo Foo,” incorporating rabbit making into quilting. For more information contact Karen Kill at schoolhousergvqg@gmail.com. Feb ruary 6 – The Operation Kidsafe child safety fair runs from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Clark Knapp Honda, 900 N. Sugar Rd. in Pharr. Parents can get a lifetime record of their child’s digital fingerprints and a form that is ready to hand to law enforcement in an emergency. Along with valuable safety tips, parents take home the only record of the visit. No special information is needed, as there is no data basing. The event is free for every family. Febr uary 7 – The Tip of Texas Orchid Society will host Janet Lamborn presenting a program entitled, “Don’t put on the virus blinders,your collection is depending on you.” The meeting is open to anyone interested in learning more about orchids and how to grow them. It is held in the Valley Nature Center in Weslaco at 2 p.m. Feb ruary 12-13 – The Mission Historical Museum Artesano Market Days runs from 1 to 8 p.m. on Friday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday. Hand-crafted artisan work will be featured in three categories: food related – derived or themed products; recycled or re-purposed items; and gardening – related or themed. Deadline for vendor registration is Monday, Feb. 1. For more information on registering as an artisan vendor, contact Lisa Price at 580-8646 or by email at programs@missionmuseum.org. Feb ruary 13 – The Seventh Annual Puppy Love Gala takes place at the McAllen Convention Center from 6 to10 p.m. The fundraising event features an evening of live, blackboard, and silent auctions and dinner. Advance registration is required and limited group seating is available. For information or to purchase a reservation please contact Palm Valley Animal Center at 686-1141. To adopt a pet, make a donation or for more information, call the same number, visit pvaconline.com or stop by at 2501 W. Trenton Rd. in Edinburg. Feb ruary 13 – The Rio Grande Valley Mennonite Relief Sale, hosted by over 15 Mennonite and Mennonite Brethren churches, will be held at the Rio Grande Bible Institute (RGBI). There will be an auction, food court, craft bazaar, garage sale and children’s games. Breakfast will be sold in the food court at 7 a.m. The garage sale will open at 8 a.m. Auctioning will begin at 10 a.m., and lunch will be sold at 11 a.m. The craft bazaar, children’s games and live music will be available throughout the day. All activities will end at 2 p.m. Admission is free. For more information, contact Quinn Brenneke at qbrenneke@gmail.com or 260-385-2657. Feb ruary 14 – Stop by the Gladys Porter Zoo, 500 Ringgold in Brownsville, for a “Valentine’s Day” themed Animal Play Day to watch the animals interact with special treats and enrichment items. It begins at 11 a.m. at the Gorilla Island and move to the surrounding exhibits throughout the day. It is included in the regular price of general admission. For information, call 546-7187 or visit gpz.org Feb ruary 16 – Dorothy A. Lund Nelson will present a program on the “Orphan Train Riders” at Fiesta Village, 205 S. Stewart Rd. Open to the general public and to all ages, admission is $5. Fiesta Village is located at 205 S. Stewart Rd. in Mission. Feb ruary 18 – The John Deere Waterloo, Iowa annual Reunion will be held at 11:30 a.m. at Gatti’s Pizza, 4100 N. 2nd St. in McAllen. For employees’ spouses are welcomed. For information, call 584-2654. (For daily events and upcoming weeks, see the full calendar at www.ptrgv.com.)

February 5, 2016

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

NEWS | SPORTS | ENTERTAINMENT | PHOTOS

MHM presents Artesano Market Days

Artesano Market Days

ISSION – The Mission Historical Museum presents the Second Annual Artesano Market Days highlighting a cultural awareness for hand-crafted artisan work. Inspired by history and tradi-

UTRGV hosts ‘Friendship Dance’

page 3A

By Jennifer L. Berghom

DINBURG – The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley’s Health and Kinesiology Club is sponsoring its annual Friendship Dance for Exceptional Children, 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 5, at the UTRGV Edinburg Campus Health and Physical Education Building II, Room 118. Now in its 14th year, the friendship dance welcomes children of all ages with special needs and their families to enjoy a day of dancing, live music, games, prizes and meeting new friends. Each student also receives a stuffed animal. This year, students will learn folklórico dances, said Dr. Zasha Romero, associate professor in the UTRGV Department of Health and Human Performance. The club started the dance 14 years ago to offer students with special needs an opportunity to experience a dance similar to the prom or homecoming, Romero said, because often, special needs students are not included in those activities. The event has grown from a few students to more than 500 from across the Valley who attended the event last year. Health and Kinesiology Club members expect a similar turnout this year, Romero said. Since it began, the club has had the sole responsibility of raising the money for the dance, to pay for everything from the food and music, to the stuffed animal each child receives. For more information, contact Romero at 6652881 or zasha.romero@ utrgv.edu.

tion, both domestic and foreign, the festivities take place on Friday, Feb. 12, from 1 to 8 p.m. and Saturday, Feb. 13, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at

the museum, located at 900 Doherty. Admission is free and open to the public. With 60 artisans representing various states in Mexico, such as Nuevo Leon, Oaxaca, Tamaulipas, Distrito Federal, Veracruz and Guanajuato and others, the unique products will highlight handcrafted textiles, artwork, jewelry, chaquira beadwork, decorative candles, candies and more. Entertainment on Friday begins at 1 p.m. featuring the unique and rhythmic sounds of Bliss Brothers, a musical experience of both salsa and cumbia with the support of keyboards, congas, and various other instraments. They will be followed by Grupo Jarocho del Valle, performing the regional folk music style of the Veracruz region of Mexico.

This group of guitarists, a harpist and vocalists begin their performance at 3 p.m. The evening will close with a headlining performance by Mission’s own, and Tejano Roots Hall of Fame inductee, Juan Guerrero y Los Sheekanos at 6 p.m. Saturday morning, from 10 to 11 a.m., a tacos and coffee breakfast will be offered before the Mega Winter Texan Fiesta festivities presented by the Mission Chamber of Commerce. Trolleys rides will be available to and from both events throughout the day. The Artesano Market is presented by the City of Mission, County of Hidalgo, City of Hidalgo, Royal Technologies of Mission, South Texas Infrastructure Group and Molcas Mexican Restaurant. For information, call the museum office at 580-8646.

page 4A

February 5, 2016

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

By Ed Sterling Texas Press Association

STATE CAPITAL HIGHLIGHTS

TxDOT awaits go-ahead signal for gridlock-reducing projects

AUSTIN — The Texas Department of Transportation on Jan. 27 reported that on average, Texas drivers in five of the state’s largest metropolitan areas lose about 52 hours and $1,200 annually due to traffic congestion. Upon approval by its oversight body, the Texas Transportation Commission, TxDOT plans to improve drive times and reduce costs through what it calls an accelerated $1.3 billion effort addressing gridlock in some of the state’s most congested areas. “The major metro areas of Texas — Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston and San Antonio —represent more than two-thirds of the state’s population and 97 percent of the state’s most congested roads,” said Texas Transportation Commissioner J. Bruce Bugg Jr. “These areas see some of the worst congestion in the nation. We’ve just completed a listening tour in these major areas and have gathered valuable local input from transportation leaders regarding their priorities and where we can quickly address some needs. This is the initial phase of a new statewide plan to address congestion,” he said. If adopted, these metro area projects will begin construction to enhance existing efforts and address gridlock on the state highway system. The projects, which add up to more than 42 miles, include interchanges, flyovers and congestion relief efforts at some of the state’s worst choke points. They will be funded using $1.3 billion made available through ending the use of diversions of highway money by other agencies, according to TxDOT. “For years we’ve been committed to addressing congestion, and this year we’re

getting a jumpstart on that part of our core mission,” said TxDOT Executive Director James Bass. “As the severity of congestion in the Lone Star State continues to grow, we are committed to delivering projects many Texans need and deserve to reduce the amount of time they spend in traffic.” The Texas Transportation Commission also will consider another $800 million in additional funding for connectivity and safety, maintenance, repairs to the energy sector and border infrastructure funding. The commission is expected to vote on all these projects when it considers the quarterly Unified Transportation Plan at its monthly meeting on Feb. 25. Resettlement prompts suit The Texas Health & Human Services Commission on Jan. 26 filed suit in the U.S. District Court, Northern District of Texas, Dallas Division, in response to the federal government’s acknowledgement that a family of seven Syrian refugees had arrived in Texas on Jan. 22 without state authorities being officially informed in compliance with a Dec. 7 court order requiring such notification. The state agency contends that because the group of refugees “presumably includes a military-aged male,” the state’s security has been harmed, and at minimum, “Texas is entitled to see the person-specific information related to Syrian refugees the Defendants intend to resettle to Texas.” Disaster assistance sought Gov. Greg Abbott on Jan. 26 declared a state of disaster and requested individual assistance for Collin, Dallas, Ellis, Franklin, Rockwall and Van Zandt Counties. Abbott also requested public assistance for Bailey, Castro, Childress, Cochran, Dallas, Deaf

Smith, Dickens, Ellis, Hall, Hardeman, Harrison, Henderson, Hopkins, Kaufman, Kent, King, Lamb, Lubbock, Navarro, Parmer, Rains, Red River, Rockwall, Titus and Van Zandt counties. The declaration comes after preliminary damage assessments were finalized and federal declaration criteria were met. If President Obama grants Abbott’s request, affected citizens in those counties may apply for federal individual assistance grants of up to $33,000 and low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration. In addition to the counties included in the presidential disaster declaration request, Abbott added Hockley, Liberty, Terry and Wichita Counties to the state disaster declaration issued on Dec. 27. “Public Assistance” grants can be for emergency work (debris removal and emergency protective measures) and permanent work on roads and bridges, water control facilities, buildings and equipment, utilities, parks, recreational facilities and other items. “The severe weather that swept through Texas last December devastated many homes, businesses and lives,” Abbott said. “A disaster declaration will provide Texans the resources needed to begin rebuilding after this tragedy.” Registration deadline passes Feb. 1 was the deadline to register to vote in Texas’ March 1 Primary Election. Those whose registration was completed on time are free to vote in either the Republican or Democratic Primary, but not both. Early voting begins Feb. 16 and continues through Feb. 26. The deadline to request a ballot by mail is Feb. 19.

Cruz, Cornyn file amicus brief in support of Texas HB 2

Senators joined by U.S. Reps. Hartzler, Olson, Smith

ASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and John Cornyn (R-Texas), along with U.S. Reps. Vicky Hartzler (R-Mo.), Pete Olson (R-Texas), and Lamar Smith (R-Texas), led a broad congressional coalition filing an amicus brief with the U.S. Supreme Court in support of Texas HB 2, which establishes standards for abortion providers and facilities. The Supreme Court will hear arguments in Whole Woman’s Health v. Hellerstedt later this spring. “Those who advocate for abortion often claim that it should be ‘safe, legal, and rare,’” Sen. Cruz said. “Unfortunately, abortion is not always ‘safe’ for women. Not long ago, we saw just how dangerous an unscrupulous abortionist can be. Kermit Gosnell, who ran a Philadelphia abortion mill, treated his women patients little better than the unborn babies he slaughtered. He subjected the women in his care to unsanitary, degrading, and inhumane treatment, undermining their dignity and health, and even taking one of their lives. In response to this horror, the Texas Legislature enacted H.B. 2, just like other state legislatures across the country, to ensure that abortion clinics are held to the same medical standards as other medical facilities. But even this commonsense regulation for the protection

of women is too much for the abortion lobby, which has challenged the regulation all the way to the Supreme Court. For the most zealous abortion advocates, nothing—not even women’s health—can be allowed to stand in the way of abortion-on-demand. Today, a bipartisan group of 174 members of Congress have filed an amicus brief in defense of the right of legislatures across the country to enact medical protections for women. I am honored to have worked with my fellow senator from Texas, John Cornyn, and with Reps. Vicky Hartzler, Pete Olson, and Lamar Smith to bring this mighty coalition together.” “By requiring abortion clinics to be held to the same standards as other medical facilities, the Texas law protects the health of both the mother and child,” said Sen. Cornyn. “Upholding this law is important not just for the well-being of women and children in Texas, but to preserve the right of states to pass laws that are in the best interests of its citizens.” “The potential impacts of this case are staggering,” Rep. Hartzler said. “Upholding this law ensures that the abortion facilities don’t get a free pass on health and safety standards at the expense of women’s health, and it could serve as a template for other states. Overturning it endangers women’s health and could place other reasonable regulations on abortion in jeopardy. The infamous abortionist Kermit Gosnell was not an outli-

er - we must protect women and children from other Gosnells.” “Texas has a sacred duty to protect the health of our residents, which is why physicians performing abortions must practice the same safety standards as every other medical practitioner,” Rep. Olson said. “Our Constitution gives states the autonomy to determine the best laws to protect public health. I was proud to join both of our Texas Senators, every Texas US House Republican and a bipartisan group of 147 other Senators and House members in urging the US Supreme Court to uphold this life saving Texas state law. Women seeking an abortion and the unborn babies who may survive an abortion attempt deserve quality care in the event of an emergency. The Supreme Court should give deference to states like Texas on matters of life and health.” Rep. Smith said, “States like Texas have both the right and the responsibility to ensure the highest health and safety standards for their citizens. This bill includes practical, common-sense measures that protect lives and prioritize women’s health. I hope that the Supreme Court will rule in favor of life and states’ rights to regulate within their own borders.” In total, 34 senators and 140 House members have signed onto the brief, which can be found online at www. cruz.senate.gov.

B.L Gray commemorates national achievement

B.L. Gray Junior High celebrates their 2015 National Excellence in Urban Education Gold Award recognition. On May 21, 2015, B.L. Gray Junior High was named No. 1 school in the nation by the National Center for Urban School Transformation (NCUST).

www.ptrvg.com

1217 N. Conway • Mission, TX (956) 585-4893 MEMBER 2015

TEXAS PRESS ASSOCIATION

The Progress Times (USPS 971-420; ISSN 0890-2666) is published each Friday by Mission Publishing Co., 1217 N. Conway, Mission, Texas 78572, (956) 585-4893. Subscriptions $20 annual in Hidalgo County; $25 outside of Hidalgo County. Second class postage paid in Mission, Texas 78572. ©2015 Mission Publishing Company, Inc. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the PROGRESS TIMES, P.O. Box 399, Mission Texas 78573.

LETTER GUIDELINES

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

February 5, 2016

Alton hosts Lower Valley clerks

he Lower Rio Grande Valley City Secretaries/Clerks Association held their monthly meeting in the City of Alton on January 27th. Representatives from the Texas State Library Archives Commission (TSLAC) gave a presentation on Records Management.

page 5A

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

Records management is a technique to the creation, use, maintenance, retention, preservation and disposal of records to reduce costs and improve the efficiency of recordkeeping. Julie Wagner, TSLAC Government Information Analyst spoke about the importance of the Local Government Records Act

which establishes standards and procedures, effective and economic government operations and to preserve records of permanent value. Secretaries/Clerks from Alton, McAllen, Weslaco, Pharr, South Padre Island, Pe単itas, San Juan and Mercedes were in attendance.

MHS recognized by NFL

ission High School has been recognized by the National Football League for contributing to Super Bowl history, not just once, not just twice, but now three times. MHS has been named to the NFL Super Bowl High School Honor Roll. A third special delivery was made to MHS Feb. 3. As the NFL marks the 50th Super Bowl Feb. 7, they are also celebrating the players and coaches of the past 49 Super Bowls and their high schools and communities that have positively impacted the national game. MHS has received a special commemorative Golden Football produced by Wilson for Tom Landry and Koy Detmer and Bobby Ply. Tom Landry is the legendary Dallas Cowboys coach who was a part of Super Bowls V, VI,

Three Golden Footballs received by MHS for being named to the Super Bowl High School Honor Roll three times. Courtesy photo

X, XII, XIII. Koy Detmer was a part of Super Bowl XXXIX as a member of the Philadelphia Eagles. Ply played for the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl 1. Landry is a member of the MHS Class of 1942. Ply is a member of the MHS Class of

1958. Detmer is a member of the MHS Class of 1992. As a member of the Super Bowl High School Honor Roll, MHS will also receive the NFL Character Education Curriculum and is eligible to apply for a grant from the NFL Foundation.

February 5, 2016

page 6A

Sharyland boys and girls take two from Patriots trict 31-5A doubleheader, the Lady Patriots fell to the Lady Rattlers by a score of 5-0 and the Patriots boys fell to the Rattlers 5-2. While the Patriots will have a chance to even up the score against the Rattlers, that will not be until later this month when they play their second round rematch. In the meantime the Patriots’ boys and girls will have to accept the fact that they are 0-1 in district play while the two Sharyland teams improved to 2-0. In the early game the Lady Rattlers jumped out to a 1-0 lead when junior for-

ward Marifer Farias scored the only goal of the first half at the 8:01 mark. It was not until the 30:09 mark of the second half when Sharyland junior midfielder Isabella Marinaro scored her first of two goals on the night to make the score 2-0 and give the Lady Rattlers a little bit of breathing room. “On my first score I saw that the goal was open and I didn’t see anybody open that I could pass it to so I took the shot,” Marinaro said. “I felt confident that I would make the goal and I did. On my second goal I think it was mostly luck because I wasn’t

Realignment adds Laredo teams to 31-5A

high schools, is now a nineteam district that includes Laredo Martin, Laredo Cigarroa and Laredo Nixon. As the head football coach and athletic coordinator at Sharyland High School, one of the schools that will be directly affected by this decision, Ron Adame expressed his surprise with the UIL’s decision when he said, “I think that everybody, including the Laredo schools, was caught off-guard by what the UIL has done. While that possibility was mentioned, we were thinking more along the lines of PSJA Southwest moving up and us having a six-team district. But as far as us having a nine-team district with these Laredo schools thrown in, that caught us all by surprise.”

By Luciano Guerra n the 1993 comedy film, ‘Groundhog Day’, Bill Murray’s character keeps having to relive February 2 until he finally gets his priorities straight and wins over the girl of his dreams. This past Tuesday was Groundhog Day and had it followed the plot of the movie, members of the Veterans Memorial Patriots boys and girls soccer teams would’ve had to relive the day over and over again until they defeated the Sharyland Rattlers and Lady Rattlers. In Tuesday night’s Dis-

By Luciano Guerra

very two years the University Interscholastic League (UIL), the state’s governing body for high school athletics, realigns high school districts across the state to accommodate new high schools and to account for changes in enrollment numbers. While there are always some unexpected results, most schools see only minimal changes to the districts they have been part of the previous two years. For the most part, re-

alignment usually involves moving one or two schools up or down a classification in each district based on student enrollment numbers and/ or shifting the geographic make-up of a particular district slightly. This past Monday the UIL released its newest realignment and what it did to District 31-5A caught everybody by surprise. District 31-5A, a former seven-team district made up of Sharyland, Pioneer, Veterans Memorial, Edinburg Vela, Valley View, Roma and Rio Grande City

planning on taking a shot but I did. The goalie actually touched the ball so I thought it was going to go wide but it went in.” The Lady Rattlers’ other two goals came off the foot of sophomore forward Kaitie Watson; the first at the 15:21 mark of the second half and the other at the 4:53 mark. “I haven’t really been scoring much this year,” shared Watson. “I’ve mostly been passing and getting assists but my coach has been telling me to have confidence in myself and take more shots. So I figured that I might as well try it.” “On my first goal I hit it pretty hard and it went right

past the goalie and in,” added Watson who in her freshman year scored 48 goals. “Making that shot built up my confidence so I took another shot later and it went it too.” In the second game the Rattlers boys opened up the scoring just 54 seconds into the game when senior forward Paul Castaneda got one past the Veterans Memorial goalie at the 39:06 mark of the first half. Then with only 2:32 remaining in the game, Castaneda scored again when he took a pass and hit the ball into an open net. “Before the game started, the coach said to go in with everything as soon as the whistle blew so that’s what

we did,” Castaneda said. “We touched the ball and it came to me so I hit it. The goalie stopped it but I kept fighting for it and it went into the goal.” “On my second goal, we were touching the ball a lot and I saw it opening up to the other forward but he was by himself,” added Castaneda.” It was my job to make the run inside so I took a simple pass to me and made a simple goal as the finish.” The Rattlers other three goals of the game were scored by Martin Gonzalez, Gabriel Garza and Salvador Martinez. The Patriots goals were scored by Heriberto Ochoa and Eder Lara.

While the impact of this change will first be felt by the district’s football teams, it will have an even greater impact on teams that make up other sports. “The affect it’s going to have will be on sports like basketball, volleyball, baseball, soccer and softball that play each other twice each season,” explained Adame. “Teams in every one of these sports, as well as the sub-varsity teams, are going to be looking at three trips to Laredo each year. The fact that many of these trips will be on school nights is the biggest concern. And it’s not just the travel time and additional expense that has us concerned, but also the time away from the classrooms due to early departures and the late arriv-

als. Those will both have an effect on academics.” Veterans Memorial head football coach and athletic coordinator David Gilpin expressed his surprise with the UIL’s decision when he said, “We were looking at several different scenarios for this realignment but never once, in any discussion I had with anybody, did the three Laredo teams come into the discussion. For me personally, when I opened up that packet and saw that, it was a complete surprise.” While the Patriots’ football team will be most affected, if and when they have to play a Thursday night game in Laredo, that is not Gilpin’s major concern. “Let’s say we have a JV (junior varsity) soccer game

on a Monday or a varsity basketball game on a Tuesday; there are all kinds of sub-varsity games going on during the week, along with every one of our varsity teams, that will all have to be traveling over there,” Gilpin said. “Now you’ll have these kids getting back at 1 or 2 a.m. on a school night. Then there’s the hazard of driving that road late at night. There are some narrow and dark areas along that road so we do have a lot of concerns with this new alignment.” Other than the three Laredo schools previously mentioned, the newly reconfigured District 31-5A will include Sharyland, Pioneer, Veterans Memorial, Valley View, Rio Grande City and Roma high schools.

February 5, 2016

Girl Power Rally unites junior high students

he decibel levels within the gymnasium at Veterans Memorial High School rivaled any teen concert the morning of Jan. 29. But the cheers were not for any single performer. The cheers from the audience were for the audience themselves. Almost 1,700 junior high school girls gathered for the district’s first-ever Girl Power Rally. The event had its roots in something much smaller; Science teacher at

R. Cantu Jr. High School, Ronnie Mehis, asking a former student to speak to his current students. That grew into the district-wide event that brought together sixth, seventh and eighth grade girls from R. Cantu Jr. High School (RCJH), Alton Memorial Jr. High School (AMJH), K. White Jr. High School (KWJH), and Mission Jr. High School (MJH). The Girl Power Rally was designed to be a fun, uplifting and motivation-

al event for the junior high school girls of Mission CISD. It was also designed to empower them to work toward their dreams and to challenge themselves to achieve the success that is within themselves. The list of speakers grew beyond just that one former student. The speakers included top females in the senior classes of Mission High School, Mission Collegiate High School, Veterans Memorial High School, as well as other district, community and business leaders. Total attendance, including students, speakers and special guests was estimated to be close to 1,800.

Pictured are the principals of the four Mission CISD junior high schools when they were presented with spirit sticks created specifically for the Girl Power Rally. Left to right: Ada Castillo, MJH; Ana Lisa Flores, RCJH; Sylvia Garcia, AMJH; Brenda Betancourt, KWJH.

Secretary of Education helps reduce testing A cting U.S. Secretary of Education John B. King Jr. announced today new guidance to help states identify and eliminate low-quality, redundant or unhelpful testing. “High-quality assessments give parents, educators and students useful information about whether students are developing the critical thinking and problem solving skills they need to succeed in life,” said King. “But there has to be a balance, and despite good intentions, there are too many places around the country where the balance still isn’t quite right. We hope this guidance will help restore that balance and give back some of the critical learning time that students need to be successful.” The guidance outlines how federal dollars may be used to help reduce testing in schools, while still ensuring that educators and parents have the information they need on students’ progress to improve learning. The guidance shines a light on innovative work already happening across the country and provides examples of how states and districts can use their

federal funding to explore new strategies for ensuring the use of high-quality, useful and well-constructed assessments, and the elimination of redundant and burdensome assessments. King talks more about the guidance in a video released today. The document builds on an October 2015 announcement by President Obama and a set of principles the Department released, outlining that assessments must be worth taking and of high quality; enhance teaching and learning; and give a well-rounded picture of how students and schools are doing. Last fall, the Council of the Great City Schools released the results of a comprehensive, two-year study on the scope of testing in schools, a report that has helped deepen the nation’s understanding of assessments. Some states and districts continue to look for creative ways to decrease testing burden on students and teachers while ensuring that new assessments measure vital skills like writing, problem-solving, and critical thinking. The Department

A decade of friendship

By Lea Victoria Juarez ranjeno celebrates a decade of camaraderie with the 10th annual Friendship Festival and Parade, Feb. 6. It’s a tradition that has grown strong for the 313-person town. “When it got started it was something that we were going to do for Valentine’s Day, that’s why it was called the friendship festival,” Mayor Yvette Cabrera said. “A lot of people do a lot of spending in November, December and January, but this is something to bring the community together that is free for everyone.” People from the surrounding cities are able to attend and participate in the festival and parade. Political representatives make appearances, as well as local law enforcement, schools and members of the veteran community. “Our main focus are usually the Granjeno Veterans. We’re very proud of our veterans. Even though we’re a small town, I would say 45

page 7A

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

to 50 percent are veterans,” the mayor said. Although the festival is small in size, it makes up for it in heart. “It’s just very welcom-

is highlighting some of that work on its Progress blog with posts on strategies being used in Tennessee and in Tulsa, Oklahoma. While this guidance addresses use of federal money under No Child Left Behind during the 2015-16 and 2016-17 school years, the Department will provide further clarification in coming months on how dollars under the newly adopted Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) can be used to support the reduction of unnecessary testing. The new law takes additional steps to support smart, effective assessments and to reduce over-testing, including efforts to encourage states to limit classroom time spent on statewide standardized testing and to strive for continued improvement and innovation in assessments. ESSA encourages a smarter approach to testing by allowing the use of multiple measures of student learning and progress, along with other indicators of student success, to make school accountability decisions. It also includes support for state efforts to audit and streamline their current assessment systems.

ing,” Cardenas said. “There’s entertainment and music and the kids are having fun. I feel it’s a great representation of our city.” The event starts at 11 a.m. and will be at the Granjeno Public Facility on 6503 S. FM 494.

“As a teacher, you know that information on your students’ progress is crucial to tailoring instruction to their specific needs and to understanding whether a lesson has worked. As a school leader, you need tools to ensure that every student is learning and to support the growth of your staff,” King said. “And yet, in both roles, you’re also always seeking more opportunities for quality instructional time for your students. Good assessments can actually be part of great learning experiences, but simplistic, poorly constructed, or redundant tests just

take away from critical learning time, without providing useful information.” In his FY16 budget proposal, President Obama called on Congress to provide support to continue and grow this work. The President’s budget included $403 million for state assessments to provide additional resources to states to support the effective implementation of assessments that are aligned to college- and career-ready standards that will help ensure that all students graduate from high school with the knowledge and skills they need to be successful in college and the workplace. In his FY17 budget proposal, President Obama will once again prioritize these goals.

In addition to this guidance, the Department has also: Established “office • hours” for any state or district that wishes to consult on how it can best reduce testing while still meeting policy objectives and requirements under the law; • Highlighted the work of states and districts on the Progress blog; • Awarded resources through the Enhanced Assessment Grants competition to support the development of better, less burdensome assessments; • Provided expertise to states directly through proactive outreach to states and other technical assistance.

February 5, 2016

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

page 8A

obituaries Alma Eletha Liljestrand

MISSION/EDINBURG – Alma Eletha Deggs Liljestrand, 85, passed away in her sleep at Waterford Gardens in Mission on Monday, Feb. 1, 2016. Formerly of Edinburg, she had lived at Waterford for several months. Mrs. Liljestrand was born on Aug. 6, 1930, to Elmer and Myrtle Deggs in Wells, Tex. She was a secretary for Hughes Tool when she met and married Charles “Charlie” Edward Liljestrand in Houston on June 1, 1957. She had two sons, Rob-

Notices

Maria Ofelia Garcia ALTON – A funeral mass for Maria Ofelia Garcia was held on Tuesday, Feb. 2, 2016, at San Martin de Porres Catholic Church in Alton. Burial followed at Valley Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Elida Gonzales PEÑITAS – Elida Gonzalez, 89, passed away on Saturday, Jan. 30, 2016, at LifeCare Hospital in McAllen. A funeral service was held on Feb. 2 at Lord and I Funeral Home in Peñitas. Burial followed at Garden of Angels Cemetery in Abram. Esmirna Montoya MISSION – A funeral service for Esmirna Montoya was held on Monday, Feb. 1, 2016, at Ric Brown Family Funeral Home in Mission. Burial followed at San Jose Cemetery. Aida P. Rosales PALMVIEW – Aida P. Rosales, 79, passed away on Saturday, Jan. 30, 2016, at Mission Regional Medical Center. A graveside service was held on Feb. 4 at Lord and I Cemetery in Palmview.

ert and Jim Brunson, from a previous marriage, and a daughter, Elizabeth, was born to Eletha and Charlie in Houston before they moved to Edinburg on Feb. 28, 1959. Another son, Charles, and daughter, Lisa, were born into the family after they moved to the Valley. Active in her community, she was a member and an elder in the First Presbyterian Church in Edinburg, and she served as an auxiliary volunteer at Edinburg Hospital for many years. Survivors include her children, James (Melinda) Brunson of Mission, Elizabeth Liljestrand of McAllen, Charles (D’Anne) Liljestrand of Lindale; and Lisa Liljestrand of Jacksonville, Fla.; daughter-inlaw, Kathy Brunson of Tyler; siblings, Carol (Duff+) Prestenbach of Austin, Helen (Norman) Wallace of Beeville, Faye (Earl) Martin of Coldsprings, Martha (Steve) Cook of Huntsville and Phillip (Patty) Deggs of New Caney; and 11 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren and one greatgreat-grandchild. She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles, in 1985; son, Robert; her parents; and a brother, John Deggs. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, Feb. 6, at 2 p.m. at First Christian Church, 410 W. University Dr. in Edinburg. Under the direction of Kreidler Funeral Home in McAllen, her remains will be cremated following the service and will later be laid to rest next to her husband’s. Ruben Perez MISSION – Ruben Perez, 61, passed away on Friday, Jan. 29, 2016, at Mission Regional Medical Center. Survivors include his wife of 39 years, Carolina G. Perez of Mission; children, Joanne P. Aguilar of McAllen and Ruby Jean Perez of Mission; father, Domingo Perez of Mission; brother, Roberto Perez of Mission; and three granddaughters.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Maria Eva Perez. A funeral mass was held Feb. 2 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Mission. Burial followed at Laurel Hill Cemetery in Mission. Virginia Gonzalez PALMVIEW – Virginia Gonzalez, 80, passed away on Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2016, at Rio Grande Regional Hospital in McAllen. She was born on Aug. 7, 1935, in Mexico to the late Tomas and Ernesta Vela. Survivors include her children, Roberto Gonzalez, Juventino Gonzalez Jr., Rosa Nelly Salinas, Leticia Gonzalez, Juan Antonio Gonzalez, Velia Gonzalez and Jose Gonzalez; and 13 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Juventino Gonzalez Sr., and children, Jesus Javier Gonzalez, Rosa Ernesta Gonzalez and Jose Gonzalez. A funeral mass will be held on Friday, Feb. 5, at 11:30 a.m. at St. Mary Magdalene Catholic Church in Abram. Interment follows at Valley Memorial Gardens in McAllen. Ashley Gutierrez MISSION – Ashley Gutierrez, 23, of Mission passed away on Tuesday, Jan. 26, 2016, in Jacksonville, Fla. Ms. Gutierrez was born on Aug. 18, 1992, in El Paso to Eloy Jr. and Clementina Gutierrez. She graduated from Sharyland High School in 2010, attended UTPA and joined the United States Navy where she was stationed in Jacksonville. Survivors include her parents; sister, Nicole Guzman of McAllen; paternal grandmother, Amelia Gutierrez of Benavides; maternal grandparents, Abel and Bemardina Barrera of San Diego. She was preceded in death by her grandfather, Eloy Gutierrez Sr. A funeral mass was held on Feb. 4 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Mission. Burial followed at Rio Grande Valley State Veterans Cemetery in Mission.

UTRGV to help families with financial aid, college applications

By Jennifer L. Berghom

CHURCH OF THE GOOD SHEPHERD 2322 N. McColl. - McAllen 682-2092 CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS 5609 S 29th St. - McAllen 682-4881 CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS Missonaries • 580-2570 CHRISTIAN SCIENCE CHURCH 911 N. Main - McAllen 686-4241 CONWAY AVENUE BAPTIST CHURCH 2215 N. Conway • 585-2413 EL FARO BIBLE CHURCH 15 miles W. of Mission on Exp. 83 Sullivan City, TX • 585-5617 EL MESIAS UNITED METHODIST 209 E. 6th • 585-2334 FAITH BAPTIST CHURCH 3 miles N. Shary Rd. • 581-1465 FAITH FELLOWSHIP BIBLE CHURCH 1 mile N. Exp. 83 on Tom Gill Rd. 519-6311 FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 1302 Doherty • 585-1442 FIRST CHRISTIAN CHURCH 12th and Miller - Mission 585-7281 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1102 Ash St. • 585-4829 for worship schedule.

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 1101 Doherty • 585-1665

NORTH MISSION CHURCH OF CHRIST 1410 E. Mile 3 Rd. • 585-0146 Palmhurst

FREEDOM LIFE CHURCH 2214 W. Griffin Pkwy. • 519-7000 Mission

NORTH PALMVIEW APOSTOLIC CHURCH 7612 W. 6 Mile Ln.

GRACIA DIVINA MINISTRY 11809 N. Shary Rd. • 584-3112

ONLY THRU JESUS 1511 E. Mile 2 Rd. Mission • 918-760-1625

GREAT OAKS COMMUNITY CHURCH 2722 N. Conway • 451-5500 Mission IGLESIA ADVENTISTA DEL SEPTIMO DIA 1725 W. Griffin Parkway 581-9008 IGLESIA BAUTISTA BETANIA 851 S. Breyfogle Rd. • 585-5688 IGLESIA BAUTISTA CRISTO EL REY 1600 E. Bus. 83 - Mission IGLESIA BAUTISTA COLONIAL 3713 N. La Homa Rd. • 585-5332 IGLESIA BAUTISTA DEL VALLE 217 W. Mile 3 Rd. • 424-1602 Palmhurst IGLESIA DEL PUEBLO 7500 West Expressway 83 581-1900 IGLESIA DEL DIVINO REDENTOR 1020 North Los Ebanos Rd 585-5898 LA RESPUESTA CHURCH 405 W. 12th Street • 585-0787 MISSION CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1 mi. E. 495 • 585-6683 NEW HOPE AT THE BORDER 905 N. Conway • 369-3603

OUR LADY QUEEN OF ANGELS One-half mile South Leo Avenue La Joya • 585-5223 OUR LADY OF FATIMA CHURCH 6634 El Camino Real • Granjeno OUR LADY OF LOURDES CHURCH 2.5 miles S. Conway (FM 1016) Mission OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE CATHOLIC CHURCH 620 Dunlap • 585-2623 OUR LADY OF THE HOLY ROSARY CHURCH 923 Matamoros St. • 581-2193

Reminiscing... 30 Years Ago

RIVER OF LIFE CHURCH 901 S. Shary Rd. (Located in the Holiday Inn Express Conference Room) 451-4838 SAN CRISTOBAL MAGALLANES & COMPANIONS PARISH

3805 Plantation Grove Blvd., Ste. 5

Mission • 580-4551

SAN MARTIN DE PORRES 5 mi. N. Conway, 1/2 Mile West Alton • 585-8001 & 585-8002 SPIRIT OF PEACE EV. LUTHERAN CHUCH 3104 Los Milagros Mission • 581-1822 ST. JOHN OF THE FIELDS CATHOLIC CHURCH 1052 Washington Ave. • 585-2325 ST. PAUL'S CATHOLIC CHURCH 1119 Francisco • 585-2701 ST. PETER & ST. PAUL EPISCOPAL CHURCH 2310 N. Stewart Rd. 585-5005

PALM VALLEY CHURCH 1720 E. Griffin Pkwy. 585-3203

SHINING LIGHT BAPTIST CHURCH 6 1/8 N. Doffing Rd. (FM 492) 580-4078

PEÑITAS BAPTIST CHURCH 1/3 Mile S. of Exp.83 on FM 1427 583-6236

TEMPLO BIBLICO 5 Mile/Conway 581-4981or 585-3831

PRIMERA BAPTIST CHURCH Corner of 6th & Oblate 585-4711

TEMPLO EVANGELICO, M.B. CHURCH La Joya

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

TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH 3905 W. 3 Mile Line • 585-3261

PROMISE LAND CHURCH 2300 E. Palm Circle (Corner of 495) Mission, TX 78572 • 624-9307

VALLEY FELLOWSHIP 1708 E. Griffin Parkway Mission • 424-7200

MISSION AUTO ELECTRIC, INC. DBA

ER MAE EPQOU IW PMENT

Commercial Lawn Equipment “Since 1954”

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

KING, GUERRA, DAVIS & GARCIA ATTORNEYS AT LAW

DAVID H. GUERRA

DARRELL DAVIS

301 E. Tom Landry • Mission • 585-1622

not dependents — are asked to bring their completed 2015 tax returns and W2 statements. Those who haven’t completed their tax returns are asked to bring their W2 statements and other forms showing income, including 1099 and Social Security statements. South Texas College, Texas State Technical College and Texas Southmost College also are hosting Super Saturday events. For more information, call UTRGV P-16 Outreach at (956) 665-7597, or email fafsasupersaturday@cftexas.org.

he University of Texas Rio Grande Valley is teaming up with RGV Focus and other Valley institutions of higher education to host Super Saturday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, March 5. The day’s goal is to welcome the community and current students to its Edinburg and Brownsville campuses and help them with the process of applying for college and financial aid. UTRGV’s Super Saturday events will be at the Main Building, One West University Blvd., on the Brownsville Campus, and at the Visitors Center, 1201 W. University Drive, on the Edinburg Campus. “We want to be able to This Week offer a well-rounded event so families can get an experi50-unit retirement complex to be constructed ence of what the university is The Retirement Housing Foundation will construct a $1.4 like,” said Barbara Jean Garza, UTRGV director of P-16 million retirement complex for the elderly in Mission. The complex will be located at 900 Los Ebanos Road. outreach. At the daylong event, peoUnbeaten Rattlers rolling along in basketball action ple will receive one-on-one The Sharyland Rattlers, who already clinched the District assistance with filling out the Free Application for Federal 32-3A title, moved closer to an undefeated season in district Student Aid (FAFSA) and the play when they defeated the Rio Hondo Bobcats 88-56. Texas Application for State Financial Aid (TASFA), and Building permits issued other forms required in applyA total of $1,901,036 in for building permits were issued ing for college. during the month of January in Mission, according to a report Both campuses will have issued by City Manager Mark Watson. computer labs open for students to complete FAFSA/TASFA forms and PUBLIC NOTICE apply to college. There also will be campus tours at both locations, The City of Alton will hold a public hearing on Monday, February along with workshops 22, 2016 at 5:30 p.m. at the City Hall Legislative Chambers located on financial literacy, at 509 S. Alton Boulevard to consider the following request: college success and other information that will help students nav- Si desea información en español, llame al departamento de igate their way to and Planeación de la Ciudad de Alton, (956) 432-0760. through college. “We want them to CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT: come to college and we want to offer them the Patricia Lorenzo is requesting a Conditional Use Permit to allow best available avenue to do it,” Garza said. “If a portable building at 2616 E. Main Ave., also legally described they have questions, or as Alfredo’s Plaza, all of Lot 6, except the south 340 feet, Alton, if they just want to go Hidalgo County, Texas. and see a university or college, this is the day The public is invited to attend and express support for or opposition to do it because all of to this application. You may also file written support or opposition the sites are going to to by 12:00 noon on February 23, 2015, for the Planning and be on-board that day, to provide that kind of Zoning and the City Commission. support throughout the For questions please call Jeff Underwood, Assistant City Manager Valley. At the Edinburg at (956) 432-0760. Campus, there will be free tax preparation services offered by VITA and AARP, free notary services, a col-

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

lege department and club fair where students can receive information about UTRGV, door prizes and a scholarship drawing. Child care will be provided at the Edinburg Campus. Garza said the university encourages current UTRGV students to attend so they can get help with filling out the financial aid forms and have the opportunity to win a scholarship. Participants – either the parents of current and prospective students or the students themselves, if they are

IMPLEMENT COMPANY, INC. MISSION 585-1618

  

 





 

theclassifieds February 5, 2016

buy • sell • trade • rent • hire

this page is your oyster opening up to a world of opportunity

forsale

RICOS TAMALES VERACRUZANOS con aceite de olivo, de carne, de dulce y vegetarianos. Catering para sus fiestas Dona Mary, 956655-4661.

garagesale

GARAGE SALE FRIDAY Feb. 5th, 308 Stacie Ln. Mis-

page 9A

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

sion, TX, furniture, movie posters, toys, other items, 8am-3pm. C L O T H E S , HOUSEHOLD ITEMS, shoes, furniture, etc..., 1710 Basham Mission, TX, Feb 5th & 6th and Feb 12th & 13th, 8am-5pm.

helpwanted

LOOKING

FOR

FRY cook/kitchen, servers, bartenders, Riverside Club, Mission, call 5811033 and ask for Jennifer.

mobilehome I PAY CASH for your travel trailers, park models, fifth wheels and cars. I’ll make you a good deal. Call Jerry

Personal classified rate: $7 for 15 words

25¢ each additional word thereafter

Business classified rate: $15 for 15 words

25¢ each additional word thereafter

Garcia at 956-9293842.

wanted FULL TIME, PART time NP or PA at a medical office in La Joya, email resume to jsaenz1643@aol. com. I PAY CASH for your travel trailers, park models, fifth wheels and cars. I’ll

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

NOTICE OF RECEIPT OF APPLICATION AND INTENT TO OBTAIN AIR PERMIT RENEWAL PERMIT NUMBER 78757 APPLICATION TRANSIT READY MIX, LLC, has applied to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for renewal of Air Quality Permit Number 78757, which would authorize continued operation of the Concrete Batch Plant located at 7205 North La Homa Road, Mission, Hidalgo County, Texas 78574. This link to an electronic map of the site or facility’s general location is provided as a public courtesy and not part of the application or notice. For exact location, refer to application. http://www.tceq.texas. gov/assets/public/hb610/index.html?lat=26.2958&lng=-98.5544&zoom=13&type=r. The existing facility is authorized to emit the following air contaminants: particulate matter including (but not limited to) aggregate, cement, road dust, and particulate matter with diameters of 10 microns or less and 2.5 microns or less. This application was submitted to the TCEQ on January 15, 2016. The application will be available for viewing and copying at the TCEQ central office, TCEQ Harlingen regional office, and the Speer Memorial Library, 801 East 12th Street, Mission, Hidalgo County, Texas beginning the first day of publication of this notice. The facility’s compliance file, if any exists, is available for public review in the Harlingen regional office of the TCEQ. The executive director has determined the application is administratively complete and will conduct a technical review of the application. Information in the application indicates that this permit renewal would not result in an increase in allowable emissions and would not result in the emission of an air contaminant not previously emitted. The TCEQ may act on this application without seeking further public comment or providing an opportunity for a contested case hearing if certain criteria are met. PUBLIC COMMENT You may submit public comments, or a request for a contested case hearing to the Office of the Chief Clerk at the address below. The TCEQ will consider all public comments in developing a final decision on the application. The deadline to submit public comments is 15 days after newspaper notice is published. After the deadline for public comments, the executive director will prepare a response to all relevant and material, or significant public comments. Issues such as property values, noise, traffic safety, and zoning are outside of the TCEQ’s jurisdiction to address in the permit process. After the technical review is complete the executive director will consider the comments and prepare a response to all relevant and material, or significant public comments. If only comments are received, the response to comments, along with the executive director’s decision on the application, will then be mailed to everyone who submitted public comments or who is on the mailing list for this application, unless the application is directly referred to a contested case hearing. OPPORTUNITY FOR A CONTESTED CASE HEARING You may request a contested case hearing. The applicant or the executive director may also request that the application be directly referred to a contested case hearing after technical review of the application. A contested case hearing is a legal proceeding similar to a civil trial in state district court. Unless a written request for a contested case hearing is filed within 15 days from this notice, the executive director may act on the application. If no hearing request is received within this 15-day period, no further opportunity for hearing will be provided. According to the Texas Clean Air Act § 382.056(o) a contested case hearing may only be granted if the applicant’s compliance history is in the lowest classification under applicable compliance history requirements and if the hearing request is based on disputed issues of fact that are relevant and material to the Commission’s decision on the application. Further, the Commission may only grant a hearing on those issues submitted during the public comment period and not withdrawn. A person who may be affected by emissions of air contaminants from the facility is entitled to request a hearing. If requesting a contested case hearing, you must submit the following: (1) your name (or for a group or association, an official representative), mailing address, daytime phone number; (2) applicant’s name and permit number; (3) the statement “[I/we] request a contested case hearing;” (4) a specific description of how you would be adversely affected by the application and air emissions from the facility in a way not common to the general public; (5) the location and distance of your property relative to the facility; (6) a description of how you use the property which may be impacted by the facility; and (7) a list of all disputed issues of fact that you submit during the comment period. If the request is made by a group or association, one or more members who have standing to request a hearing must be identified by name and physical address. The interests the group or association seeks to protect must also be identified. You may also submit your proposed adjustments to the application/permit which would satisfy your concerns. Requests for a contested case hearing must be submitted in writing within 15 days following this notice to the Office of the Chief Clerk at the address below. If any requests for a contested case hearing are timely filed, the Executive Director will forward the application and any requests for a contested case hearing to the Commissioners for their consideration at a scheduled Commission meeting. Unless the application is directly referred to a contested case hearing, the executive director will mail the response to comments along with notification of Commission meeting to everyone who submitted comments or is on the mailing list for this application. The Commission may only grant a request for a contested case hearing on issues the requestor submitted in their timely comments that were not subsequently withdrawn. If a hearing is granted, the subject of a hearing will be limited to disputed issues of fact or mixed questions of fact and law relating to relevant and material air quality concerns submitted during the comment period. Issues such as property values, noise, traffic safety, and zoning are outside of the Commission’s jurisdiction to address in this proceeding. MAILING LIST In addition to submitting public comments, you may ask to be placed on a mailing list for this application by sending a request to the Office of the Chief Clerk at the address below. Those on the mailing list will receive copies of future public notices (if any) mailed by the Office of the Chief Clerk for this application. AGENCY CONTACTS AND INFORMATION Public comments and requests must be submitted either electronically at www.tceq.texas.gov/about/comments.html, or in writing to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Office of the Chief Clerk, MC-105, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087. If you communicate with the TCEQ electronically, please be aware that your email address, like your physical mailing address, will become part of the agency’s public record. For more information about this permit application or the permitting process, please call the Public Education Program toll free at 1 800 687 4040. Si desea información en Español, puede llamar al 1-800-687-4040. Further information may also be obtained from Transit Ready Mix LLC, P.O. Box 3154, Mission, Texas 78573-0054 or by calling Mr. Homero Garcia, Consultant at (956) 8621363.

make you a good deal. Call Jerry Garcia at 956 -9293842. 3/4 TON PICKUP, heavy duty, automatic, 4 door, tow package, 4 wheel drive, No Dealers please, 918-2445236. GERMAN, JAPANESE, US military souvenirs wanted, guns, swords, helmets, etc. Top cash paid collector 712 -310-0905.

Make it happen, we’re located at 1217 N. Conway in Mission, TX Come on in! Our hours of operation are Mon. - Fri. 8 - 5 p.m. If you can’t drop by, mail it! P.O. Box 399, Mission, TX 78573 Order by phone 585-4893 with a major credit card. The deadline to get your classified in is Tuesday at 3 p.m.

ORDINANCE NO. 01-19-16 AN ORDINANCE ADOPTING AND ENACTING REVISED RATES FOR GARBAGE COLLECTION The City of Palmhurst adopts the following rates for garbage and trash collection within the City: $24.30 for one cart $31.59 for two carts $44.08 for three carts Passed and adopted this January 19, 2016. For further information please visit www.cityofpalmhursttx.com

DRIVERS CDL-A : $2500 Sign-On Bonus! Long Haul US/ Canada. Steady Miles! Monthly/Annual Bonuses! Health & Dental after 90 days. 855-645-7789 HELP WANTED Driver Hiring Event! Excellent Hourly Pay/Benefits. No CDL Req. just current TX Drivers License and ability to pass background and drug screen. Apply today (EOE): www.lefleur.ent/ Application.aspx Must be Bilingual Call for details: 855-200-4631

956 Towing & RecoveRy LLc 1515 w. 3 MiLe Rd. Mission, Texas 78573 (956) 585-8245 • Fax 581-6668 TdLR vsF Lic. no. 0640957 PURSUANT TO THE PROVISION CONTAINED IN RULE 85.703. SUBCHAPTER F, FROM CHAPTER 85, PART 4 OF TITLE 16 IN THE TEXAS ADMINISTRATIVE CODE, WE ARE OFFICIALLY NOTIFYING YOU THAT THE BELOW DESCRIBED MOTOR VEHICLES HELD IN OUR CUSTODY ARE TO BE PICKED UP, REMOVED AND ALL CHARGES PAID WITHIN (45) DAYS OR THESE VEHICLES WILL BE DECLARED ABANDONED ACCORDING TO TEXAS LAW. YEAR MAKE MODEL VIN# BALANCE 2008 MERCEDES-BENZ C CLASS WDDGF54X68A045182 $905.00 2008 CHEVY SILVERADO 1GCEC14C08Z199596 $630.00 TOTAL CHARGES CANNOT BE COMPUTED UNTIL VEHICLE IS CLAIMED. STORAGE CHARGES WILL ACCRUE DAILY UNTIL VEHICLE IS RELEASED. Mission Towing inc. 1515 w. 3 Mile Rd. Mission, Texas 78573 (956) 585-8245 • Fax 581-6668 TdlR VsF lic. no. 0551944 PURSUANT TO THE PROVISION CONTAINED IN RULE 85.703. SUBCHAPTER F, FROM CHAPTER 85, PART 4 OF TITLE 16 IN THE TEXAS ADMINISTRATIVE CODE, WE ARE OFFICIALLY NOTIFYING YOU THAT THE BELOW DESCRIBED MOTOR VEHICLES HELD IN OUR CUSTODY ARE TO BE PICKED UP, REMOVED AND ALL CHARGES PAID WITHIN (45) DAYS OR THESE VEHICLES WILL BE DECLARED ABANDONED ACCORDING TO TEXAS LAW. YEAR MAKE 2013 HONDA 2010 CHEVY DODGE

MODEL ACCORD AVEO 19FT. BOAT RAM

VIN# 1HGCR2682DA900282 KL1TD5DE0AB133004

BALANCE $555.00 $595.00 $1,630.00 $1,350.00

TOTAL CHARGES CANNOT BE COMPUTED UNTIL VEHICLE IS CLAIMED. STORAGE CHARGES WILL ACCRUE DAILY UNTIL VEHICLE IS RELEASED. NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO DISCUSS THE LA JOYA INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT’S

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO DISCUSS THE LA JOYA INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT

Hazard Mitigation Action Plan

Texas Academic Performance Report

The La Joya Independent School District will hold a Public Hearing at 6:15 p.m., Wednesday, February 10, 2016 in the La Joya ISD Board Room located at 200 West Expressway 83, La Joya, Texas.

The La Joya Independent School District will hold a Public Hearing at 5:45 p.m., Wednesday, February 10, 2016 in the La Joya ISD Board Room located at 200 West Expressway 83, La Joya, Texas.

The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the La Joya Independent School District’s Mitigation Action Plan

The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the La Joya Independent School District’s Texas Academic Performance Report.

CONSTABLE’S SALE The State of Texas County of Hidalgo Notice is Hereby Given that by virtue of a certain Writ of Execution issued out of the honorable COUNTY COURT AT LAW #1 OF TRAVIS COUNTY, TEXAS, on the 11TH of DECEMBER 2015, for the sum of $18,367.75 on interest thereon at the rate of 5% per annum from the 26th of JUNE 2015 and cost of suit, under a judgment in favor of TRAVIS TILE SALES INC., in a certain cause in said court, No. C-1CV-15-000813 And styled TRAVIS TILE SALES INC. Vs. JUAN CARLOS CERVANTES INDIVIDUALLY, D/B/A PANGEA FLOOR COVERINGS And placed in my hands for service for service on 13th of JANUARY 2016, I, Lazaro Gallardo Jr., as Constable Pct.3 Hidalgo County, Texas, did on the 23rd of JANUARY 2016, levy on certain real estate in Hidalgo County, Texas, described as follows, to-wit Legal Description: WEST ADDN. TO SHARYLAND S330’ LOT 34-2 10.00 AC GR 9.85AC NET. , And levied upon as property of JUAN CARLOS CERVANTES INDIVIDUALLY, D/B/A PANGEA FLOOR COVERING and that on the first Tuesday in MARCH 2016, the same being the 1ST day of said month, at the court house door of Hidalgo County, TEXAS in the City of Edinburg, Texas, between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. (sale starts at 10:00 a.m.) by virtue of said levy and said writ of execution, I will sell said above described real estate at public venue for cash, to the highest bidder, as the property of said JUAN CARLOS CERVANTES INDIVIDUALLY, D/B/A PANGEA FLOOR COVERINGS and in compliance with the law, I give this notice by publication, in the English language, once a week for three consecutive weeks immediately proceeding said day of sale, in The PROGRESS TIMES a newspaper published in Hidalgo County. Witness my hand, this 2ND day of FEBRUARY 2016

page 10A

February 5, 2016

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

2nd Annual Junior College/Career Fair

n just a few months, the high school juniors will move on to their final year in public education and make crucial decisions about their futures. Pioneer High School Go Center hosted their 2nd Annual Junior College/Career Fair in the gym Jan. 29. Go Center Counselor Gloria Ramirez, her assistant Elizabeth Wheeler and

EDC by disrupting the traditional economic model, Mission’s culture, employment and economic status will change. “In the past, EDCs have focusd on recruiting big companies. But in reality... the small businesses are really driving the economy,” Meade said. “We felt we needed to nurture that. So we created these programs. Without an educated workforce, how can we recruit companies?” The CEED will not only act as a hub for the MEDC programs, but it will also be a place for anybody who wants to be in a more professional environment while utilizing wifi. However, there will be a membership fee of an amount that has yet to be determined. Offices as well as less

STATE REP

board’s serving term and increasing teacher pay. “We need to find ways to provide quality education for our children and not only make them competitive at the local level, but at the state and national and international level,” he said. I want every child in my district, to go to college wherever they want to go and I want them to be competitive.” As far as economic development, Padron would like to figure out a way to circulate the money that is being used to pay for border security. “I would like to have ample resources to secure our

from pg 1

formal work spaces can be leased in the building. A computer lab will house the Code the Town participants, and Sylvan Learning Center, who teaches the curriculum, will also lease a space. The building plan also includes has a lecture hall, a production and sound room and a coffee shop with outdoor seating. Meade said he believes the CEED’s impact is going to be larger than any company they would have recruited. “Somebody has to plant that seed to start nurturing the engineers, to start bringing in the sciences, technology and engineering into the classrooms. That way, in 10 years we can say that we have 10,000 engineers,” Meade said. “If we don’t plant that seed, we’re nev-

er going to get there, which is the reason why we called it the Center for Education and Economic Development. Phonetically it spells ‘seed.’ Even though Mission EDC developed the specific programs that target education and entrepreneurship, Meade said he wants to inspire EDCs in other cities to take the model and improve it. “If you can have McAllen focusing on computer science and Brownsville focusing on computer science or engineering then all of a sudden you have this region of more than a million people with a load of scientists and engineers,” Meade said. “Then we’re a force to reckoned with.”

CTE Counselor Renee Huddleston invited local businesses and college recruiters to the campus to encourage students to visualize their futures and take action. The counselors’ goals are to assuage the fears that many students may feel as they transition from high school to college and career. Thirteen colleges, 11

DETMER

Somerset, and his Dad led the Bulldogs to a 41-34 non-district game victory over the Veterans Memorial Patriots. “At that time I was the quarterback coach,” Detmer explained. “We kind of all had some input in the offense but I was not yet calling plays as I have been since I became the offensive coordinator.” In that game, the Bulldogs scored 31 fourth quarter points to defeat the Patriots 41-34. Now that he will be taking over the Mission Eagles’ football program, Detmer is hoping to return the Eagles to their glory days. “Not being down here in the Valley, what I know about how the Eagles have done recently has been at a distance,” Detmer shared.

businesses and seven federal agencies were on site, handing out flyers and information to more than 400 juniors. “The opportunity to speak with college recruiters and business representatives, ask questions and listen to the voices of experience, will give the students the added confidence

needed to set and accomplish their goals,” Ramirez said. “I’m extremely grateful that these professionals took time out of their busy day to speak with our students.” Luis Garza, Herff Jones representative, raffled three 10-karat class rings, each valued at $700.00. The three winners were Juan M. Avalos, Jackelyn Gonzalez, and Moises E. Martinez. from pg 1

“I know that they haven’t made the playoffs for a few years but prior to that they had a year or two where they did really well and made the playoffs. It seems as if they just haven’t been real consistent over the past so many years. However I have a lot of respect for Coach (Mario) Pena and the things he’s done down here in the Valley over the years.” As for whether or not his plan is to turn the Mission Eagles into an offensive juggernaut as they were during his father’s tenure at Mission, Detmer said, “Obviously I’ve been on the offensive side of the ball my whole life so that is the side that I know best and that I feel the most comfortable with. But we want to be a good football team, period. We want to put together a good football team

that can go out there and compete and win games.” In regards to what it will take to turn the Eagles into a team that can not only make the playoffs on a consistent basis but also be competitive against out-of-Valley teams, Detmer added, “Obviously we’ll have to build this program up in steps. But one of the things we’ve had a lot of success with at Somerset is 7-on-7 football. We’ve gone to the state tournament every year for the past six years and when you’re involved with that your kids get the experience of playing against different levels of competition. That is certainly something that we will be doing to help us challenge the team and to test them against out-of-Valley competition.” from pg 1

borders and have the DPS troopers live here,” he said. “That means they’re going to buy a home here, buy a car here, their kids will go to school here. They’ll be part of our community.” Muñoz worked on legislation that created a corridor between the international bridges that allows for overweight, oversized trucks to cross the bridge and get to their distribution points. The ultimate goal is to make the flow of commerce work faster, thus bringing more traffic and activity for the area. He said state reps are currently working on strategies

to change the perception of the Valley in order to bring in more investment. “The perception that we have in the media outside of the Valley in that is that the border is a one-issue area. But we’re much more than that,” the state representative said. “It’s a good place to do business and at the end of the day we want to be seen as partners in the future of Texas.” Regarding healthcare, Padron’s concern is the doctor to patient ratio is too high, which causes a decrease in the quality of patient visits. According to Muñoz, the hope for UTRGV’s medical school

is that people stay local to study and practice medicine, which in turn will strengthen the Valley healthcare industry and economy. “With a lot of changes the (healthcare industry) has experienced over the years, we have tried to navigate them as best as we can to preserve the integrity of the institution,” Muñoz said. “Even on an educational standpoint, it’s trying to preserve it and make sure we’re not undoing the years and years of investment in what we’ve done as a state.” Padron said what makes him the best candidate for

District 36 is that he is relatable to the community he represents. “I’m not a career politician, I’m a small business man. But I understand the struggles of families that come from very humble beginnings,” he said. “I understand what it is when someone has to cut the light or water off. I’ve lived it, so I can identify with my constituents in my district that have it hard.” But Muñoz explained that the position of a state rep is different on the outside looking in. State reps don’t necessarily need to impact the legislative process by having

a bill with their names on it, he said. A lot of the times it’s the slow, steady, minor details that form the largest ripples, such as working on amendments or tailoring bills. “A lot of our committee assignments of the positions that we’re put in in the legislative body depend on seniority,” he said. “The more you develop a hard working reputation, who you are and what you represent, you can be put in those positions that benefit your district and your community.”

progresstimes

Special Edition • February 5, 2016

SECTION B

Texas Citrus Fiesta

March on Conway

By Lea Victoria Juarez our hours before the Parade of Oranges rolled out, people had already secured their places along Conway Avenue to get the best view. The theme for the 79th Annual Texas Citrus Fiesta was Citrus, Cartoons and Comic Book Characters, and the parade contestants delivered just that. Superheroes were a popular decoration choice, as well as the Peanuts characters and Looney Tunes. Other decorations included Star Wars, Disney princesses and the Flintstones. Float contestants worked for weeks to prepare their final product, but the element that united the competitors was the teamwork it took to assemble their floats. “Everybody works together and has input. That’s what makes Leal superstars,” said Mike Larralde, a sponsor for the Leal Elementary student council. “We stayed late nights. Some teachers have kids and they brought them with them to work on the float, but we make it fun.” Leal Elementary student council took first place in the elementary school float category, followed by Mims Elementary and Castro Elementary from Mission CISD. Contestants in the Valley products category had to wait until the day before to put the fruit on their float. The volunteers for Our Lady of Guadalupe’s float stayed up until about 3 a.m. covering their entry, only to be at the parade lineup by 11 a.m. But the float assemblers didn’t miss a beat. “It gives you energy just seeing the float so beautiful,” parishioner David Moreno said. “Then when people comment on it, it’s awesome. It just perks you up.” After about six years of taking first place in the Valley product category for the

Parade of Oranges, OLG fell to second place to Mission Collegiate High School this year. Mission Collegiate took home second place in their inaugural parade appearance last year, but Principal Orlando Farias had his sights set on the winning slot and was determined to take first. Regardless of their rank, the OLG members said they were just honored to be leading the cavalcade; it was their first time doing so. “We all work hard at it and then to be the very first is a privilege,” Moreno said. “If we win, it’s whatever the Lord wants. Everybody puts in their 100 percent, and we give all the thanks to Father Roy to give us the privilege to give back 100 percent.” Mission High School FFA earned third place in the Valley products category in their second Parade of Oranges appearance. Last year, the group neglected to decorate their truck and received point deductions, but this year the students came back in full force with a Marvel and DC comic superhero theme. Last year the city of Palmhurst took first place in the general float category, but didn’t place this year with their Dr. Seuss theme. City of Hidalgo took first, Mission Regional Medical Center came in second and Speer Memorial Library earned third. Regardless of what their float placed, City Manager Lori Lopez said the city participates in honor of the late Berta Filut. Filut, who served the executive director of the Texas Citrus Fiesta for 20 years, died in September 2014. “I like that the parade brings all the communities together,” Lopez said. “Berta always reached out to the smaller communities to participate. Her passion and drive inspired us to continue following through with the effort that we put through.”

City of Mission

Parade of Oranges

unites

communities

Top: The 79th Texas Citrus Fiesta Royal Court Above: City of Palmhurst

Veterans Memorial High School cheerleaders

Our Lady of Guadalupe Cavalry of Christ Photos by Doug Young

page 2B

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

February 5, 2016

page 3B

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

80th Texas Citrus Fiesta Royal Court named

By Kathy Olivarez fter months of preparation and a full evening of anticipation, the moment finally arrived as Queen Citrianna the 80th was announced at the close of this year’s Texas Citrus Fiesta Royal Coronation. The new queen, who will preside over the Royal Court at next year’s citrus celebration, is Bryceidee Leos, Duchess of Ruby Red Grapefruit. She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Edgar Leos of Palmview. The Fiesta’s 80th Royal Court was announced at the annual Royal Coronation held Jan. 28 at Mission High School’s Neuhaus Gym. Vying for the prestigious title of Queen Citrianna each year

Queen Citrianna LXXX and her Royal Court are shown left to right: 2nd Alternate, Evyn Nicole Sakulenzki; 1st Alternate, Sara Maria Olivarez; Queen Citrianna, Bryceidee Leos; Princess of Grapefruit Blossom, Celeste Tamez; Lady-in-Waiting, Karla Cantu; and Duchess of Orange Blossom, Julissa Ariana Alvarez. Progress Times photo by Jim Brunson

are the princesses and the lady-in-waiting of this year’s Royal Court as well as each of the duchesses who represent various cities from all across the Rio Grande Valley. Bryceidee is a senior at Palmview High School where she is an Honor Roll student and has perfect attendance. She has been a cheerleader for five years and is a member of the FFA. She serves as senior class president. The other members for next year’s Royal Court were also selected. Celeste Tamez, Duchess of Lemon, was selected as Princess of Grapefruit Blossom. She is the daughter of Lt. Col. Carlos Tamez and Patricia Tamez of Weslaco. Celeste is a senior at

Weslaco High School where she is ranked in the top 10 of her class. She is secretary of the National Honor Society, a member of the FFA and is a Hall of Fame Cheerleader. She was Miss Weslaco 2015 and has studied dance for 16 years. Julissa Ariana Alvarez, Duchess of Honeydew, was named as Princess of Orange Blossom. She is the daughter of Mr. Alex Alvarez and Ms. Melissa Cantu of Mission. Julissa is a sophomore at Mission High School where she is class president and serves on the Superintendent’ Student Advisory Council. She is also third captain of the Mission High Flyers. Julissa was awarded a division one solo at the Alamo City Dance

and Drill team competition as well as advancing to the state CDE’s dairy cattle competition. Karla Cantu, Duchess of International Goodwill, was named Lady-in-Waiting. She is the daughter of Mentor and Karla Cantu of Hidalgo. Karla is a junior at Hidalgo High School where she is a member of the National Honor Society, and was named basketball and volleyball Defensive Player of the Year. She is the reigning Miss Hidalgo. Karla will receive her CNA certification from South Texas College. She enjoys volunteering at Arbor View Nursing Home. First alternate was Sara Maria Olivarez, Duchess of Periwinkle. She was also se-

lected as Miss Photogenic. She is the daughter of Rosalinda Olivarez of Mission. Sara attends the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley where she is a sophomore. She is the reigning BorderFest Queen and was Duchess of Butterfly in 2013. Sara is interested in theater and has been cast in various Valley productions. She enjoys volunteering her time with Girl Scouts of America. Second Alternate was Evyn Nicole Sakulenzki, Duchess of Marsh White Grapefruit. She is the daughter of the late Joseph Sakulenzki and Deborah Sakulenzki of Mission. Evyn is a sophomore at Covenant Christian Academy. She is an Envision Schol-

ar and alumni of Junior National Young leaders Council. She has been nominated to the National Academy of Future Physicians. She enjoys coaching volleyball and modeling. Victoria Burns, Princess of Grapefruit Blossom was named Miss Congeniality. She is the daughter of Charles and Lorraine Burns of Lyford. Victoria is a senior at Lyford High School where she is salutatorian and president of the senior class and the National Honor Society. She is accomplished in varsity track and field, and danced the lead in “Coppelia.” She was named Cover Girl 2016 of the Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show.

page 4B

February 6, 2015

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

named King Citrus LXXIX By Kathy Olivarez

A specially made crown was placed on Jimmy Pawlik’s head at the Texas Citrus Fiesta Royal Coronation as he was crowned the 79th King Citrus. Each of the kings that preceded him took a bow in front of the newly crowned member of the King’s Association. Pawlik is a third generation citrus grower in the Rio Grande Valley, following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather. He is the second of six children born to Louis and Mary Pawlik. He attended school at Our Lady of Sorrows. His first job in the citrus industry came at 6 years old w h e n he was pulling a burn-

Challenges of a TCF

By Lea Victoria Juarez he royal reception is the first time all of the girls in the Queen Citrianna pageant are fully dressed in their ballgowns and are introduced to the public. It’s supposed to be a night of worry-free fun for the girls, according to Texas Citrus Fiesta Director Bibi Peña. All night the pageant contestants glide through the crowd in their voluminous dresses, representing their products and provinces with a smile and grace. But it’s not all glitz and glamour. Behind every polished duchess is a teenage girl that is working meticulously to maintain her elegant exterior.

When the girls first arrive to the reception, all 22 contestants and the royal court have to change in a back room at the Mission Community Center. It’s crowded and it’s hot, according to Duchess of International Goodwill Karla Cantu, but they have to make it work. The 79th annual citrus fiesta was the first for Cantu. And because it was her first, she and her mother went through a lot of trial and error leading up to the big day. “I had no guidance. So me and my mom were always calling Bibi (Peña) like ‘What do we need?’ We returned a lot of stuff because we didn’t need it because we just didn’t know,” the Hidalgo representative said. “It’s really fun though, for it being

PHARMACY & MEDICAL EQUIPMENT

583-2700 • 581-5499

my first time. I liked seeing girls from other schools and learning about them.” She said the TCF pageant differed from the other pageants because of the gowns, which must be ballgown style and include a petticoat and corset. The combination can make it difficult for the girls to maneuver in. Cantu said she fell at one point during the reception. “The dress is poofy and heavy and it’s really hard to sit down,” she said. “I fell because I couldn’t feel the chair. My parents pushed it under me but not far enough.” When it’s time to eat, the girls are also given bibs to cover their dresses, a tradition that only started about 16 years ago, Peña said. “We’ve had problems in the past,” the TCF director said. “The dresses are very expensive and they’ll accidentally drop something on them and it’s really hard to dry clean the dresses. It’s difficult to keep them in good

ing trailer through an orchard removing dead limbs following the 1962 freeze. Later experiences with family fruit fights were a bit more fun. As a youth he spent his summers and weekends on the farm planting vegetables and harvesting cantaloupes and stomping cotton. In addition to his responsibilities on the farm, Jimmy participated in scouting, working hard to get his Eagle Scout badge. He enjoyed attending National Jamboree and camping in New Mexico at Camp Philmont. Upon graduation from high school he went to the Texas A&M University where he studied nuclear engineering. After graduating he went to work for General Electric and his career took him to eight states and Taiwan doing construction, startup, maintenance and operation of power plants. While he was working in Mississippi in 1979 he met his wife, Holly Smith. On their honeymoon they discovered the joys of scuba diving, which became a lifelong passion for them. In 1995 the calling to return to his roots and become a farmer became too strong to resist and

he approached his dad and uncle about coming home to work on the family farm. Pawlik became very involved in agricultural organizations serving two terms on the Farm Service agency County Committee. He is past president of the Texas Vegetable Association and received the Award of Merit in 2010. He is a long time member of the Texas Onion Committee and a member of the Board of Directors for the Edinburg Citrus Association and former Texas Citrus Exchange. He has been active in citrus research projects such as the Water Conservations Demonstration Initiative for which he was recognized as Irrigator of the Year for his stewardship in conserving water. Presently he involved in the Raised Bed and Ground Cover project. He is a member of the New Citrus Variety Committee and an original Texas Citrus Pest and Disease Management Corporation. He is also a member of the Hidalgo County Water District #3 Board of Directors. Pawlik said he is honored to have been selected the 79th King Citrus.

condition, so the bibs are a precaution.” For Victoria Burns, the princess of grapefruit blossom, this was her second year participating in the pageant. But even with a year of experience, she said the process doesn’t get any easier. “First of all, you’re wearing your shoes the entire night and it’s tiring and you want to take them off,” she explained. “And you always have to be smiling and happy. I think that’s sometimes kind of hard because when you’re tired you want to make that grumpy face, but you have to keep it together.” Although the girls come across challenges while vying for the Queen Citrianna crown, Burns said it is “totally worth it.” “You have to think that other people are watching you and you have to know that you’re representing something big, not just yourself,” she said. “I think that’s really awesome.”

(956)584-1772

Commercial & Residential Service & Installation T.E.C.L # 20541 (956)581-8899 www.zitroelectric.com

page 5B

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

February 5, 2016

page 6B

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

February 5, 2016

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

page 7B

page 8B

By Luciano Guerra he Citrus Youth Show may be just one of the many events that make up the annual Texas Citrus Fiesta in Mission, but it is much more than just an exhibit of the many different types of oranges, grapefruits, lemons and limes grown either commercially or non-commercially in the Rio Grande Valley. It is a way of exposing local youth to different facets of an industry that made the Valley what it is today – the citrus industry. There are actually two components of the Citrus Youth Show – the citrus identification and judging contest and the citrus varieties show, both of which are geared toward exposing local elementary, junior high and high school students to the Valley’s citrus industry. As its name implies, the citrus identification and judging contest is made up of two parts. One part involves the identification of 30 varieties of fruit while the other part involves judging three classes of fruit, two of grapefruits and one of oranges, and placing them from best to worst. Each of the three judging classes counts for 50 points while each of the 30 varieties identified counts for 10 points making the highest possible score of 450. In the senior division, the Palmview FFA team placed

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

first, the Veterans Memorial FFA team placed second and the Sharyland Pioneer FFA team placed third. In the junior division, the Veterans Memorial FFA team placed first, the Pioneer FFA team placed second and the Palmview FFA team placed third. Veterans Memorial had the only team entered in the sub-junior division which earned them first place. The Palmview FFA senior team was made up of Hiram Ibanez, Alicia Gauna, Sofia Lujan, Jerry Jasso, Isela Salinas and Jaretze Ramon. Gauna was the high point individual in the senior division. High point individual in the junior division was Bella Alaniz of the Pioneer FFA team while J.R. Martinez of the Veterans Memorial team was the high point individual in the sub-junior division. The entries in the citrus varieties show are collected by the students who, with permission from the growers, pick the fruit directly from the trees. It’s local growers such as Lone Star Growers, Rio Farms and Thompson Farms that give the kids the opportunity of going into their groves and selecting the highest quality fruit they can find which is then judged against other entries within each variety and placed according to the quality. The Grand Champion winning entry in the youth variety show was exhibited

by Joel Alejos (junior exhibitor) of the Juarez-Lincoln FFA. The Reserve Grand Champion winning entry was exhibited by Hunter Wernecke (sub-junior exhibitor) of the Los Fresnos FFA. The Eron Wernecke Award for sweepstakes winners was awarded to Jeremiah Gayton of the Pioneer FFA in the senior division, Joel Alejos of the Juarez-Lincoln FFA in the junior division and Hunter Wernecke of the Los Fresnos FFA in the sub-junior division. In total there were 10 varieties of commercial oranges and grapefruits exhibited at this year’s youth variety show with 32 varieties of non-commercial oranges, grapefruits, lemons, limes, tangerines and tangelos exhibited. In other categories, the winning grapefruit clusters were exhibited by Hunter Wernecke (quantity) of the Los Fresnos FFA and Andrea Garza (quality) of the Veterans Memorial FFA. The winning orange clusters were exhibited by Erick Mendoza (quantity) and Kaitlyn Ramirez (quality) of the Veterans Memorial FFA. Ramirez had the winning entry in the freak division as well. Donald Thompson earned the Grower Award at this year’s Texas Citrus Fiesta Citrus Youth Show.

February 5, 2016

The Palmview FFA senior citrus judging team made up of Hiram Ibanez, Alicia Gauna, Sofia Lujan, Jerry Jasso, Isela Salinas and Jaretze Ramon won first place in the Texas Citrus Fiesta citrus judging competition. Progress Times photo by Luciano Guerra

Alamo Country Club residents Ron and Deb Hengst look over the different varieties of grapefruits entered in the Texas Citrus Fiesta Citrus Youth Show. Progress Times photo by Luciano Guerra

February 5, 2016

page 9B

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

2016 Texas Citrus Fiesta Vaquero Cook-off Winners Grand Champion - Mi Pedasito Ranch

Texas Edition

1st Place Citrus Presentation, 2nd Place Pork Ribs, 2nd Place Ranchero Beans, 3rd Place Pan de Campo

1st Place Pan de Campo, 1st Place Fajitas, 2nd Place Citrus Presentation

BBQ Villains

Los Bomberos

Smokin’ Pistols

1st Place Pork Ribs, 1st Place Peach Cobbler

1st Place Ranchero Beans

2nd Place Pan de Campo

Smokin’ Moe’s BBQ

Kill‘em n Grill‘em

Chinamen’s Grillers

3rd Place Ranchero Beans

2nd Place Fajitas, 2nd Place Peach Cobbler

3rd Place Fajitas, 3rd Place Pork Ribs, 3rd Place Peach Cobbler

page 10B

Product Costume Show winners announced

By Kathy Olivarez ight costumes were entered into the Texas Citrus Fiesta Product Costume Show, based on the theme Citrus, Cartoons and Comic Book Characters. Primary division winners First place in the Primary Division went to Wonder Woman designed by Dahlia Vivian. Second place went to Esmeralda designed by Audrey Uhrbrock. Third place went to Pebbles designed by Sylvia Gonzalez. Teen division winners First place in the Teen Division was awarded to Maleficent modeled by Ryann Ramirez, second place went to Rockin’ Barbie modeled by Destiny Gonzalez and Tinkerbelle, designed by Jovita Garza, came in third. The Maleficent costume was also voted People’s Choice by the people who attended the show. Contestants In the primary division, Leyana Gonzalez chose to model the dress worn by Pebbles, from the Flintstone comics. Pebbles’ costume consisted of a two-piece outfit with a blouse covered in dried and pulverized lemon leaves. It was adorned with triangular designs of burnt grapefruit pulp. The scalloped hemline was outlined with pumpkin seeds. The coordinating shorts were made of the same materials. She had the traditional “bone” in her hair that was covered with white onions skins. Gonzalez wore a bracelet made of small limes. The second contestant was Tyra Alvarez whose Wonder Woman costume was made by Dahlia Vivian. The top of her costume was created using a mixture of ground orange and grapefruit peels with an addition of burgundy bougainvillea. Her shorts were covered with purple onionskins, combined with lemon, lime, orange and grapefruit peels.

February 5, 2016

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

Her decorative belt was covered in ground sunflower and outlined with pumpkin and cantaloupe seeds. The stars on her shorts were made from dehydrated line slices outlined in pulverized white onionskin. Her tiara was covered with dried sunflowers and outlined with pumpkin seeds centered with cantaloupe seeds covered with blended bougainvillea petals. Alvarez’s nails were covered with white onionskins and burgundy bougainvillea. Her heels were covered with orange and grapefruit peel studded with watermelon seeds. Lezley Uhrbrock wore the costume modeled after Ermeralda, the kind gypsy in “The Hunchback of Notre Dame.” She wore a blouse covered with dehydrated eggplant that was white with speckles of purple from the peel. The collar was covered with blended white onionskins. The cummerbund around her waist was covered in ground tangerine peel and had trim covered in process lime peel. Her skirt was covered in processed red cabbage. The scarf she had draped around her waist was a mixture of red cabbage and burnt citrus to achieve a darker color. The trim on the scarf was covered with powdered tangerine peels. Medallions of gold, covered in tangerine peel hung from the edge of the scarf. Lezley carried a tambourine covered in ground citrus peels. Beet juice was used to give the tangerine pulp used in the center of the tambourine a darker color. This combination was also used on some of her jewelry. Her dancing shoes were covered with charred citrus peels. The gold on her shoes and dangling earrings and one set of beads were covered with citrus peel. There were five contestants in the teen division. Ryann Ramirez, whomodeled the character Maleficent, from the story of

Sleeping Beauty, wore a robe covered in charcoaled Ruby Red Grapefruit. Two striking rows of color created from powdered purple cabbage gave the costume color. The pink-ish-purple color of the collar was immersed in purple cabbage. It is accented with two flames on each side covered in burnt citrus and dehy-

drate d grapefruit rind. Ryann wore a long flowing train that represented the happy colorful enchanted forest she protected. The train was immersed in processed in charcoaled Ruby Red Grapefruit rinds. The train is a flurry of color with the pond, flowers, birds, swans, frogs, butterflies and other forest animals that were covered in various Valley plant products such as avocado leaves, citrus peel, citrus rag, mesquite ash and sawdust, crushed and pulverized roses, sliced and dried eggplants, evergreen leaves, dehydrated celery leaves, silky corn hairs, zucchini and many other products. The train featured three good fairies, Flora, Fauna and Merriweather that were hand-painted with various products. She carried a staff made of local

wood to help steady her. Her ring was made with the tip of a zucchini toped with a kumquat. Her nails were covered in powdered purple cabbage. Her evil-looking headdress, The Atora or horns, covered in Ruby Red Citrus product completed her outfit. Destiny Gonzalez, who modeled Rockin’ Barbie, the famous doll created by Mattel in 1959, wore a strapless dress. The bodice of the dress was covered in burnt grapefruit peel. The contrasting accent on the bodice was covered in dried lemon leaves. She wore a three-tier skirt resembling petals. The pink layer on top was created with pink bougainvillea powder while the second tier was covered in processed lemon leaves. Burnt grapefruit peels were used to cover the bottom of the skirt. Her headband was covered in dried lemon leaves and her dangling earrings were also covered in lemon leaves. Barbie’s pink heels were covered in processed bougainvillea petals. The soles and heels of her boots were covered in pulverized lemon leaves. Pumpkin seeds were used on the heels to add special detail. Gonzalez carried a Barbie box covered in pink bougainvillea. The stars accenting the box were powdered yellow esperanza flowers and burnt grapefruit peels were used to over the musical notes on the box. Barbie’s name on the box front was fashioned from powdered onionskins.

The third contestant was Briana Garza who modeled a Tinkerbelle costume from the Movie “Peter Pan.” Briana was dressed in a strapless design covered in ground orange, lime, lemon and grapefruit leaves. Flowers made from bougainvillea was scattered around the bust. Crushed citrus leaves and cantaloupe seeds were centered in the flowers. The costume’s jagged hem of the skirt was outlined in pumpkin seeds and flowers of bougainvillea. Watermelon seeds finished the hemline. Her wings were covered with powdered white onionskin. Swirls of pink bougainvillea petals and green polka dots made of ground orange, lime, grapefruit and lemon leaves adorned the wings. Her headband was covered with powdered citrus leaves. Lemons and lime seed zigzag around the headband. Tinkerbelle carried a pouch of green citrus leaves to carry her valuables. A heart fashioned from bougainvillea petals is centered with her initials done in citrus leaf powder. Jasmine Leal, who designed her own costume, chose to be Pocahontas, daughter of the powerful tribal leader Powhaten, Chief of the Algonquian Indians of Virginia. No look back at the comics of yesteryear would be complete without tribute to Charlie Brown who appeared in the “Peanuts” syndicated comic strip that began in 1950 and ended in 2000 when its creator Charles M. Schultz’s died. Sara Mae Gonzalez modeled the costume Sara Gonzalez created.

Ryann Ramirez, first place winner in the Teen Division Progress Times photo by Luciano Guerra.

February 5, 2016

“

By Kathy Olivarez Pomp and Circumstance” resonated throughout Neuhaus Gymnasium as the new royalty for the 79th Texas Citrus Fiesta were officially crowned and presented at the coronation. Jimmy Pawlik was crowned as King Citrus the 79th. He is a third generation citrus grower in the Sharyland area. In is first official duty as King, Pawlik crowned Ariana Nicole Gomez as Princess Anna the 66th, Hailie Ciomperlik as Queen Citrianna the 79th. The Tangerine Court, Royal Court and duchesses each walked the catwalk to greet the newly crowned king. Tangerine Court Princess of Red Grapefruit Blossom Madeline Lesa-Lovelle Flowers is the daughter of T.J. and April Flores. Her gown was modeled after the wedding dress of the Little Mermaid, Ariel. Alanie Celest Rivera, daughter of Eduardo and Anita Rivera, served as Princess of Tangerine Blossom. She wore a two-piece ball gown in citrus color with tangerine accents. Amarissa Magali Castillo, daughter of Cesar G. and Magali Castillo San Juan served as Princess of Lime Blossom. The gown she chose was reminiscent of lily pads. Princess of Lemon Blossom Lillian Yvette Garza is the daughter of Leopoldo and Celeste Garza. She wore vivid yellow ball gown with a ballet neck-

page 11B

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

line toped with rolled crystalized organza. Princess Anna the 66th is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Luis Marcos Gomez. She wore a white taffeta gown with a royal collar completely trimmed with applique and rosette trim. Her crown and her scepter were decorated with material her matching gown. Royal Court Princess of Grapefruit Blossom is the daughter of Charles and Lorraine Burns of Raymondville. She chose a ball gown of white satin with a squared neckline, complemented by filled elbow length fitted sleeves of sheer netting adorned with crystals. Princess of Orange Blos-

som is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Oscar Martinez. She wore a ball gown inspired by the wedding dress worn in the recently released movie, “Cinderella.” The Lady in Waiting is daughter of Brian and Jackie Milam of McAllen. She wore a gown of white with a bodice featuring a bateau neckline with lace over satin, adorned by borealis crystals. Queen Citrianna the 79th is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Stanley Ciomperlik of San Juan. The queen made a fairy tale entrance in a gown of white satin, heavily accented with gold. Her crown and scepter were covered with materials that matched her gown. The queen had four t r a i n b e a rers to assist her. First was David Eli Guardiola,

son of Hugo and Magali Guardiola and Grandson of Gilberto and Delfina Rios of Mission. Benito Garza Jr. son of Benito and Maria Marissa Garza of Mission and grandson of Martha Garza of Mission and Ramon Perez of Roma was next. Joaquin Cesar Castillo, son of Cesar and Magali Castillo of San Juan and Grandson of Isaac and Magdelena Farias of Mission was third. Fourth was Klayton Daniel Arnold, son of Kyle Arnold and Ashley Gonzalez of Mission. He is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Mark Stuart and Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Arnold, all of Mission. Once the entire Royal Court was seated the duchesses from all over the Rio Grande Valley gathered to pay tribute to the new court. The Duchesses were adorned in gowns creating a rainbow of colors representing products grown in the Rio Grande Valley. They were arranged on stage by color to create a rainbow effect. The duchesses Lydia Maria Montoya of Mercedes, daughter of Orlando and Claudia Montoya, served as Duchess

of Poinsettia. Her page was Ruben Pena. Christina Renee Reyna, daughter of Eloy and Melba Reyna of Mission was Duchess of Rio Red Grapefruit. Her page was Devan Lerma. Celeste J. Munoz, daughter of Lalo and Leticia Munoz of Mission served as Duchess of bluebonnet. Her page was Dylan Rodriguez son of Lupe and Dianne Rodriguez of Mission. Giselle Olivarez, daughter of Thelma B. Olivarez of La Joya served as duchess of Crepe Myrtle. Her page was Bryan Rodriguez, son of Carla Quintero of La Joya. Veronica Teresa Rodriguez, daughter of Alejandro and Gilda Rodriquez of Mission served as Duchess of Mandarin Orange. Her younger brother Gabriel served as her page. Arianna Gavriella Pulido, daughter of Jose Eloy and Mari Pulido of Edinburg, served as Duchess of Orange. Edgar Orlando Rodriguez served as her page. Amanda Christina Salinas, daughter of Oscar and Ana Salinas of Linn, served as Duchess of Live Oak. Joel Cash Martinez served as her page. Julissa Arianna Alvarez, daughter of Alex Alvarez and Melissa Cantu of Mission, served ad Duchess of Honeydew. Doreyon Pina served as

her page. Clarissa Gonzalez, daughter of Adalberto and Mary Gonzalez of Mission, served as Duchess of Retama. Gael Veliz was her page. Celeste Ariana Tamez, daughter of Lt. Col. Carlos and Patricia Tamez, served as Duchess of Lemon. Her page was Ethan Eugene Hoskins. Natalia Nevarez, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Leopoldo Nevarez and Catalina Nevarez of Mission. Rick David Guzman served as her page. Leslie Maria Hernandez, daughter of Alicia Garcia, served as Duchess of White Wing. Roderick Guerra served as her page. Alexis Claris Pruneda, daughter of Serrando Pruneda and Veronica de la Fuente of Mission. Ayden A. Rocha served as her page.

page 12B

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

February 5, 2016