February 6, 2015 - Progress Times Issue by Progress Times

Parade of Oranges transforms Conway Avenue

By Julie Silva

onway Avenue was a sight to behold Saturday as sock hops, ’50s diners and Elvis impersonators took over Mission during the Texas Citrus Fiesta Parade of Oranges. City of Palmhurst leaders were ecstatic to come in first place in the general category with their brightly colored diner walls and jukebox in the back filled with oranges and grapefruit. City Manager Lori Lopez said they used several hundred pounds of citrus to make it happen because in previous years, they’d been told they didn’t have enough citrus. “We’re doing it more than anything because we wanted to do a tribute to Berta Filut,” Lopez said. “She’s always included all the surrounding communities, and we thought it was important more than ever to come out this year.” Filut, who served as executive director of the Texas Citrus Fiesta nearly 20 years, died in September. Mission Regional Medical Center, which came in second place in the general category, had affixed a motorcycle to its float, and Mission Consolidated Independent School District’s float, titled “Leader of the Pack,” came in third. Meanwhile, Our Lady of Guadalupe remained the team to beat, taking first place in the parade’s

See PARADE OF ORANGES 2B

Texas Citrus Fiesta FULL COVERAGE IN SECTION B

Friday, February 6, 2015

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STAR POTENTIAL

Sullivan City resident earns ticket to Hollywood

Mega Winter Texan Fiesta Planned in Mission A T

By Julie Silva

he Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce is teaming up with with Shary Municipal Golf Course and Mission Historical Museum to introduce a brand new version of the annual Winter Texan Fiesta – the Mega Winter Texan Fiesta. This year’s Winter Texan Fiesta will become a threeday event that includes a Winter Texan golf tournament at Shary Golf Course of Feb. 13, the traditional Winter Texan Fiesta entertainment at Leo Pena Park on Saturday, Feb. 14, a car show the same day and a Mexican Artisan market at the Mission Historical Museum on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, Feb. 13-15. Events tee-off Friday, Feb. 13, with “Fiesta on the Golf Course” at Shary Municipal Golf Course in Mission. The tournament will be a Six-Person Texas Scramble running from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. The cost for an 18-hole division is $40, which includes food and beverage. Sign-up starts Monday, Feb. 9. All

Shary Golf Course and Go Mission Deal Card Members will receive a discount. For more information call (956) 580-8770. On Feb. 13-15 there will be a free Mexican Artisan Show at Mission Historical Museum from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. There will be a wide array of Mexican artisan vendors from throughout Mexico with traditional

products, culturally charged musical performances, and a special presentation by Pancho Villa. On Saturday, Feb. 14 enjoy a Classic Car Show located in the parking lot of Leo Pena “Placita” Park in downtown Mission. The highly popular Winter Texan Fiesta entertainment will be held Saturday, Feb. 14 at Leo Pena Park from 1 to 4 p.m. Rich Bellert, the show’s

producer will be emceeing the entertainment event, reciting his cowboy poetry between acts to keep folks entertained. This year’s entertainment features a variety of genres including rock & roll, big band, country and bluegrass. Bob Dollie and Friends will be performing songs that will bring back memories of the big band era. Dollie is a highly talented musician, playing the keyboard piano and fiddle. Dollie was inducted into the Texas Swing Hall of Fame in 1999. He is also a member of the Western Swing Society Hall of Fame in Seattle, Washington, the Western Swing Music Society of the Southwest in Oklahoma City and the Western Swing Society Hall of Fame in Sacramento, California. Fred King, who plays lead guitar, played with a band called The Jaysons, which opened for many stars including Merle Haggard, Ernest Tubb, Waylon Jennings, Jim Ed Brown, Faron Young

See MEGA FIESTA 12A

TOP: The Punches Family Band. BOTTOM: Southern Anthem.

lexis Monique Chapa doesn’t want to be a normal kid. The Sullivan City resident is a student by day, combining her junior and senior year coursework to graduate in May at 16 years old. At night and on the weekends she’s pursuing her dream: Music. Briefly on Day 6 of the American Idol auditions at the end of January, Chapa was featured singing “Trouble,” made famous by Elvis Presley. Her performance earned her a golden ticket to Hollywood, where she’ll compete with 200 others for the ultimate honor of being named American Idol. But this type of competition isn’t new to Chapa, who was selected at 14 to compete on “La Voz Kids,” a Spanish version of “The Voice.” Even as she doubles up on her schoolwork to graduate early, Chapa is working with music producers in Florida and California to produce music. She’s already released videos for singles “Unstoppable” and “Standing in the Light,” written with producers Mark Hudson and songwriter Jon Secada. She credits her opportuni-

ty with La Voz for preparing her for the Idol auditions. In New Orleans, Chapa went through five rounds of auditions with varying numbers of producers. In the final audition, she got to perform for Jennifer Lopez, Keith Urban and Harry Connick Jr., who she said were easy compared to rooms full of producers. “Just to be in their presence, I guess is incredible,” Chapa said. “They were so calming.” With Chapa’s blond hair and fair complexion, J-Lo was shocked to hear Chapa was a fellow Latina. Meanwhile, she said Keith Urban asked her which was her favorite muppet. Chapa’s mom, Rita Flores, said her daughter has always loved singing, though she’s never really been professionally trained, except for a few months before her Idol auditions. She sings in the shower, she sings when she cooks, “And we’re not like that,” Flores said. “We’re very quiet.” Chapa only auditioned for “La Voz Kids” at the urging of her grandmother. Chapa said she knows Spanish, but she sometimes stumbles and

See CHAPA 12A

INSIDE

INDEX

La Joya mariachi groups advance to state

Live viewing party for state mariachi contest

Authorities make arrest in rural Peñitas shooting

All three La Joya ISD high schools have a mariachi group vying for a state championship title Saturday, Feb. 8, in San Antonio.

Community members can watch the Veterans Memorial High School Varsity Mariachi de Plata via livestream.

Rodolfo Saenz, 38, faces a murder charge in shooting death of 32-year-old Raul Garza over the weekend.

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Entertainment | pg. 2A

Lifestyle | pg. 6A

Opinion | pg. 4A

Sports | pg. 8A

Obituaries | pg. 9A

215 E. 3 Mile Rd. • Palmhurst • 519-8453 | 1705 Exp. 83 • Peñitas • 580-6840

Classifieds | pg. 11A

entertainment

Newsboys perform at State Farm on Feb. 22 H IDALGO – They’re coming! The Newsboys band with the “Got Faith?” concert series performs live in a night of music, ministry and more on Sunday, Feb. 22, at State Farm Arena. The show, “We Believe, God’s Not Dead,” begins at 7 p.m. and doors open at 6 p.m. The group includes drummer Duncan Phillips, lead vocalist Michael Tait, guitarist Jody Davis and keyboardist Jeff Frankenstein. The “more” part of the concert provides a full evening’s lineup with the talents of Audio Adrenaline, Finding Favour and, back by popular demand, Kairy Marquez. Reserved tickets are $25, $40, $55 and $70 with group discounts of $5 off per ticket of 10 or more tickets. Purchase tickets at ticketmaster. com or by calling 800-7453000. Meet and greet tickets are available by calling 3582755. Hailing from Australia, the Newsboys hit the scene in 1985, and have been rocking out the Christian music

scene for three decades. They have earned six gold albums, knocked out 33 No. 1 singles and received multiple Grammy and American Music Award nominations. They grabbed an even larger audience with their message and sound with the band’s appearance in the 2014 film, “God’s

Not Dead.” The movie was inspired by their song of the same name. The Newsboys’ latest work, “Hallelujah for the Cross,” marks their first recording of hymns. It was a challenge. They had to ask how they could make the sound of powerful, founda-

Photography exhibit opens Feb. 14

he Upper Valley Art League invites the public to the opening reception for 2015 Photography & Digital Imaging Exhibit from 7 to 9 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 14. This year’s exhibit will be on display at the Kika de la Garza Fine Arts Gallery, 921 E. 12th Street in Mission, through March 10. Chairman is Jess Merrill, a professional photographer whose work has been exhibited and sold internationally to corporate clients and individual investors for more than 40 years. Traditional genres of creative photography such as architectural, flower, landscape, wildlife, portraits and more will continue to be a big part of the exhibit. This year, however, the photographer artists are encouraged to

tional hymns relevant to today’s listeners. Newsboys manager Wes Campbell understood the task. “There’s a lot of truth and power in those old hymns,” he says. “We’re not saying we’ve redone them completely but we have gone and taken that nugget from these hymns and made them accessible to a new generation…. They’re pretty powerful.” Overall, there was a purposeful effort to keep the integrity of the original hymn but to modernize it and make it palatable for today’s audiences, so taking some creative license had to be employed. “We took a bit of a modern worship approach to these old hymns,” Wes said. “We kept the verses in there and it really does open a pathway to where these songs came from and sheds some light on the songs for people who’ve never really sung hymns.” Lead singer Michael Tait agreed. “Hymns are important to me. Wes Campbell, producer Seth Mosley, and myself sat and picked through songs that

See NEWSBOYS 7A

Granjeno preps for Friendship Festival

G “Hello Mudder” by Luciano Guerra was the 2014 People’s Choice Award in the annual UVAL Photography & Digital Imaging Exhibit.

submit images that have been digitally enhanced. They are free to manipulate their photos in any manner their creative juices take them. Throughout the time ex-

hibit will be on display in the UVAL gallery, mini receptions will be hosted from 2 to 6 p.m. on the following three

See EXHIBIT 7A

RANJENO – The citizens of Granjeno are preparing for their Ninth Annual Friendship Festival slated for Saturday, Feb. 7. Festivities include a parade of floats, bands and other entries, the Show and Shine Car Expo, food vendors, arts and crafts, music, kiddy rides and more. The parade begins at 11 a.m., and the festival grounds are open from 12 to 4 p.m. It takes place at 6503 S. FM 494 (Shary Road). For more information on any of the events, call 519-0032.

February 6, 2015

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NEWS | SPORTS | ENTERTAINMENT | PHOTOS

Coming Attractions

February 6 · The Texas Lions Camp Benefit Concert featuring the Rio Grande Valley Concert Band, Swing Street Big Band and the Senior Ambassadors will be held at Trinity Worship Center in Pharr. Admission is $7. Tickets may be purchased at the Progress Times, 1217 N. Conway Ave. and Bentsen Grove Resort in Mission. Doors open at 6 p.m. February 7 · Frankie Ballard, with opening acts Wade Bowen and Costello, performs at Las Palmas Race Park, 9809 N. Taylor Rd. in Mission. Gates open at 7 p.m. Tickets range are $25 and $35 and available at ticketfly.com or by calling 877-435-9849. Prices increase the day of the event. February 8 · The Rio Grande Valley Concert Band will perform at Casa Del Sol MH/RV Resort in Donna at 3 p.m. To become a member of the band, contact Gene Goede at 6829225. · Santa Maria Bullring in La Gloria presents bloodless bullfights starring Cesar Castaneda and Karla Santoyo at 4 p.m. Tickets available at Progress Times, 1217 N. Conway, Mission. Call Fred Renk at 481-3300 for tickets and directions. · The Senior Ambassadors will perform at First Methodist Church in Mission at 7 p.m. February 10 · The McAllen Symphonic Band’s next performance, “Let’s Dance,” begins at 7:30 p.m. at Trinity Worship Center in McAllen. They are under the direction of Rogelio Olivarez. Tickets are $5 and may be purchased at all Wilder Resorts locations, Weslaco Chamber of Commerce, all

McAllen Community Centers and at the door the evening of the concert (if available). Visit the Band’s website at www.mcallentownband.org for more information. February 12 · Now in its 45th season, Ballet Folklórico UT-Pan American will present Alegría Gira 2015 at the McAllen Civic Center at 7:30 p.m. A dinner at 5:30 p.m. precedes the show Tickets for the dinner and show are $75 per person. Reservations must be made by Feb. 6 for the dinner by calling 665-2230. Tickets for the show only range from $16 to $18 for adults, $14 to $16 for seniors and $12-$14 for students and children. Tickets are available at the McAllen Convention Center Box Office located at Ware Rd. & Expressway 83, calling locally at 6813800, online at ticketmaster. com or calling 800-745-3000. · Jammin’ on Jackson Street with Vance Greek will be held at the Railroad Crossing, 101 E. Jackson Street, Harlingen, at 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. February 12, 14, 19-22; Feb. 26-March 1 · The Pharr Community Theater presents “The Chisolm Trail,” written by Romeo Rosales Jr. and directed by David Cid. The two-act western comedy, drama and adventure of South Texas history will have two performances at Donna High School as part of the Chisholm Trail Festival. Show times are 7 p.m. on Feb. 12 and 11 a.m. (15-minute excerpt) on Feb. 14. Full performances the next two weekends, beginning Feb. 19, are 7:30 p.m. on Thursday through Saturday

See ATTRACTIONS 7A

February 6, 2015

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Winter Texans feel safe in Rio Grande Valley

recent survey conducted by the University of Texas-Pan American on security along the border between Texas and Mexico showed that a great majority of Winter Texans feel safe in the Rio Grande Valley. Penny Simpson, UTPA Director of Business & Tourism Research Center, said the recent survey of Winter Texans showed most Winter Texans feel safe in the RGV but the communities could do a better job of communicating how safe the Valley really is. Simpson said recently a Federal Crime Index shows the RGV is one of the safest places in the U. S. and this information could be published to help Winter Texans feel at ease here. During the height of the immigrant crisis last summer, former Texas Governor Rick Perry sent the Texas National Guard and hundreds of additional Texas Department of Public Safety troopers to reinforce security forces in the Valley. The survey of Winter Texans on border security showed a definite increase in awareness among Winter Texans about the heightened security forces deployed along the border. Most Winter Texans feel added security forces are having a positive effect on the Rio Grande Valley and also believe there has been a reduction of drug traffic and human trafficking as a result of the forces. Simpson said normally when she does a survey 94 to 96 percent of those who respond say they will come back to the RGV. Typically, those not planning to return cite health issues rather than security issues concerns. Asked if they would return to the Valley next year, in this survey 84.2 percent said yes. This is down from the mid-90 percent likely return rate found in prior Winter Texan studies; however, the sample included Winter Texan panel members from 2010, 2012 and 2014 and some of these Winter Texans may not be returning because of poor health or other unknown reasons. Also, the number of survey respondents was small, at 413, compared to other recent surveys. The likelihood of returning to the RGV is influenced significantly by satisfaction with life in the Valley, feeling safe in the Valley and perceptions of economic benefits of the added security forces. When asked if they were likely to recommend the Rio Grande Valley to others, 60 percent responded positively in this survey. Over three-fourths, 76 percent, of respondents said they feel safe in the RGV. Only 8 percent said they do not feel safe, while, and 16 percent were neutral. Some 24 percent agreed that the RGV is safer than most places in the U. S., while 33 percent disagreed and 43 percent were neutral on the question. The survey shows that while most Winter Texans (79 percent) are very aware of the added security forces in the RGV through news media, they said they don’t talk about the added security forces among each other and only 25 percent of Winter Texans surveyed have seen many more security forces in the Valley. More Winter Texans (39 percent) than not (19 percent) would like to have more security forces in the RGV, but a large number (42 percent) were neutral on this question. More than 70 percent were not sure if the crime rate has declined since the increase in security forces. Other highlights of the survey include these responses from Winter Texans: • 90 percent do not believe our country should allow anyone and everyone in

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our country. • Only 10 percent believe we should have open international borders. • Most do not believe there is enough room in our country for everyone. • Over three-fourths (77 percent) feel undocumented immigrants are infringing on our country’s resources. • 83 percent do not think the government should pay for the care and education of undocumented immigrants. Only 4 percent think it should. • 89 percent say undocumented immigrants should be not eligible for welfare. Three percent think they should. • 85 percent do not believe undocumented immigrants deserve the same rights as U.S. citizens in this country. 4.6 percent believe they do.

Pictured are members of the Mariachi Toros de Plata after their award at the MASBA area contest. On the front row from left to right are: Gerardo Garcia, Leo Rivera, Joshua Alcaraz, Alejandro Peralez, Antonio Sepulveda. On the back row are: Ayla Gonzalez, Lorenah Vasquez, Astrid Medina, Maria Torres, Isabel Vasquez, Monica Velasquez, Ashley Gonzalez, Leslie Castillo, Diana Gonzalez, Aiisa Almendarez, VMHS Principal Angelina Garcia, Director Francisco Vela Jr.

Live viewing party for state mariachi contest planned

ommunity members can watch the Veterans Memorial High School Varsity Mariachi de Plata make a little district history when they compete at the Mexican American School Board Association mariachi contest, if they can’t make the drive to San Antonio. Not only will the competition performances for state awards be streamed over the Internet by

Reminiscing... 30 Years Ago This Week

The North Conway widening project was in limbo There was no immediate source of funding for the proposed widening of North Conway through the business district of Mission. G.G. Garcia, representative to the meeting from the Texas State Highway Department office in Pharr, told the Mission Downtown Merchants that funds had been left off the 10year project development plan. Pharr PD complaint leads to Rangel firing Det. Sgt. George Rangel’s chaotic career with the Mission Police Department came to an end abruptly Monday afternoon when he was fired. The action stemmed from a complaint Feb. 5 lodged by two Pharr police officers, one of whom had previously worked for Mission PD. Rangel refused to admit the former Mission PD officer into the office and became insulting and verbally abusive, according to then-Chief Victor Pagan-Levy. Former Councilman Villarreal files for city, Place 2 J.D. Villarreal, a former city councilman officially filed candidacy for Place 2 on the City Council. “Given the increased responsibility to state and local governments due to the anticipated federal cutbacks, one must develop strategies for reducing city costs but protecting municipal services,” Villarreal said.

MASBA, but Mission Consolidated Independent School District is planning a viewing party for the livestream. This is the first time a district mariachi group has advanced to this state competition. The viewing party will be

held at the Veterans Memorial High School Fine Arts Auditorium, Saturday, Feb. 7. The doors will open at 3: p.m. The Mariachi de Plata are scheduled to perform at the state contest at 4 p.m. The livestream viewing event will

be free. If you cannot make it to San Antonio to see them in person, or to the VMHS Fine Arts Theater, you can still watch the livestream from the following link, http://ironrodd.com/mariachi/.

opinion By Ed Sterling Texas Press Association

Legislature to chair a standing budget-writing committee, was appointed by Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick to preside over the 15-member panel. Nelson, R-Grapevine, said Senate Bill 2 would be a “responsible” budget and she encouraged committee members to voice their individual priorities during the budget-writing process. She also said the panel would spend a week on tax-relief bills. New governor’s work begins In the days following his inauguration on Jan. 20, Gov. Greg Abbott set right to work. On Jan. 21, “to prevent, detect and investigate fraud, abuse and waste” he named Stuart W. Bowen Jr. as inspector general for the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. On Jan. 22, he submitted to the Texas Senate for approval Cameron County Judge Carlos Cascos as Secretary of State, Jerry Strickland as chief of the Office of State-Federal Relations and David Mattax for reappointment as commissioner of the Texas Department of Insurance. He also named appointees to the University of Texas System, Texas A&M University and Texas Tech University boards of regents. On Jan. 23, he set Feb. 17 as the date of special runoff elections for Senate District 26 and House Districts 17 and 123. He also traveled to Edinburg to speak and be present for the announcement of a nearly $3 million grant to the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley School of Medicine grant by United Health Foundation. The medical school is to open in 2016. On Jan. 27, he released a statement in defense of for-

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NEWS | SPORTS | ENTERTAINMENT | PHOTOS Letter to the Editor

Just say no to UTRGV Vacas

STATE CAPITAL HIGHLIGHTS

USTIN — On Jan. 28 the main work of the Texas Legislature started when the state budget-writing Senate Finance Committee met at the Capitol. Financial figures for the committee to use as a guide come from the 10-member Legislative Budget Board, a permanent joint committee of the House and Senate that develops budget and policy recommendations for appropriations, completes fiscal analyses for proposed legislation and conducts evaluations and reviews to improve the efficiency and performance of state and local operations. In its budget estimate, the Legislative Budget Board recommends a $205 billion state budget for the 20162017 fiscal biennium. The current 2014-2015 budget is estimated at $202 billion. The biggest chunks of the 2016-2017 recommended budget are $77.5 billion for education, $75 billion for health and human services and $30 billion for business and economic development. As set forth in state law, the 10-member “LBB” is co-chaired by the lieutenant governor, who presides over the Senate, and the speaker of the House, and includes the chair of the Senate Finance Committee, the chair of the House Appropriations Committee; the chair of the House Ways and Means Committee; three members of the Senate appointed by the lieutenant governor; and two other members of the House appointed by the speaker. As of Feb. 1, the chairs and lists of members of House committees had not been named. Sen. Jane Nelson, the first woman in the history of the

February 6, 2015

mer governor Rick Perry, who is facing felony charges related to his vetoing the budget of the state’s Public Integrity Unit when the head of the unit ignored his demand for her resignation after she had been arrested for drunken driving. Abbott said, “The Texas governor is endowed by our constitution with the authority to veto legislation, and it is outrageous and inappropriate that a governor would be prosecuted for exercising that authority.” On Jan. 28, in a letter to all state agency heads, he called for higher standards in the state’s contracting and procurement process, including specific reforms aimed at restoring the public trust in the contracting process. This comes in the wake of a series of investigative stories by the Austin American-Statesman detailing a multi-million dollar no-bid contract between the Health and Human Services Commission and an information technology security firm. On Jan. 29, he proposed to eliminate the Texas Emerging Technology Fund and establish the New University Research Initiative “to make meaningful and effective investments in job creation.” Correction / Clarification In this column last week, I erroneously reported Sen. Craig Estes, R-Wichita Falls, as having voted against a proposed Senate rule change in floor procedure, allowing a three-fifths majority of the 31-member body (19 senators) to bring a bill to the floor for debate, rather than the traditional two-thirds, or 21 senators. Estes was present but did not vote on the rule change. I regret the error. The rule change was adopted on a vote of 20-10.

To the editor: “Vaquero” is the worst name for the UTRGV mascot. It is a beautiful word with a rich tradition. We only need to see how the whole of Mexico has embraced the “Vaqueros de Dallas” to love and appreciate both sides of the Rio Grande. (How about UTRGV Cowboys? The horse is already there, just put a guy on it, but without a sombrero). The problem is that the UTRGV Vaqueros will simply become the “UTRGV Vacas.” There was a 2007 movie called “There will be Blood.” Well, there will be Mooooo…..oooos.” Some on this issue just don’t get it. They are not familiar with the rich mix of cultures in the Valley. One man totally dismisses students’ comments as “trivial.” Obviously he never heard of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, especially the one about “self esteem.” One student’s comment was, “They are going to call us cows.” Yes, and cows means vacas. In Spanish we use the word vaca and phrases like “Eres una vaca” or “No seas vaca” to put someone down as a dimwit, stupid, lazy, dumb, awkward, etc. Picture this: The UTRGV women’s (or men’s) basketball team is being introduced for a game. The announcer, by mistake or deliberately, says: “Ok everybody, let’s give our

visitors from the south a big welcome. Lets hear it for the UTRGV Vacas.” There will be loud laughter and applause mixed with a hearty round of moos. Some of our girls will burst out crying and run off the court; the boys will give the people in the stands the finger. Or consider some recent graduates interviewing for a job. One says, I’m a USC Trojan, one a Baylor Bear, one a Sooner, and one a UTRGV Vaquera. One of the girls, really meaning no harm, giggles and says she had heard of that but thought it was just a joke. She asks, “Doesn’t vaquera mean cow or vaca? Why would anyone call themselves that?” The vaquera says, “We had no say in the matter. It was just shoved down our throats.” Some may say, putdowns like these will never happen; people are better than that. Well, consider a recent candidate for Texas governor and what he said about thunderstorms, rape, and not being able to do anything about them, so you may as well sit back and enjoy them! He insulted half the people on earth. He was a real vaca. Putdowns, racist or not, from Flores and Garza will hurt just as much as those from Smith and Walters. The name Vacas will invite ugly comments and putdowns that will

apply to the whole herd of UTRGV graduates, not just Hispanics. Valley, we cannot let that happen: We are better than that. We Valleyites look forward to a great university. We want it to be first class, so it will attract the brightest students, faculty, and staff. We need a good mascot and “Vaquero” is not it. How come no university uses vaquero for its mascot? Hmm…! We have made great progress. Let’s keep doing that. How “vaquero” will be misused and abused will set UTRGV back 100 years. The 1969 Johnny Cash song “A Boy Named Sue” speaks directly to the whole issue of how we think of ourselves and how others think about us. The song is about a dumb misguided father that named his son “Sue” to help him grow strong. The son hates the laughs and giggles about his name and vows to find and kill the man “that gave me that awful name.” When the boy finds him, Cash sings about their fight in “the mud, the blood, and the beer.” The boy than vows that if he ever has a son he will name him “Bill or George … anything but Sue.” For UTRGV, the boy named Sue says, “*#@$!& … anything but Vacas.” Signed, Hiroche Jose Date, P.E. Major, U.S.A.F., (Ret.)

said he is strongly in support of this legislation. Nichols plan, if passed by the Legislature and approved by voters in the general election, would dedicate annual motor vehicle sales tax revenues exceeding $2.5 billion to the Texas Department of Transportation for use in funding non-tolled roads and bridges. Nichols estimated this to be about $2 billion per year in the near future, but by the next decade, pop-

ulation and economic growth could push that number north of $3 billion. The fact that it provides a stable, long-term revenue source to TxDOT is what makes the proposal so useful, he said. As the legislation is currently written, the new funds would fit into the 2018-2019 budget, but Nichols said that if the election were early enough and the math worked out, then new funds could go into the next biennial budget.

Nichols rolls out new road funding plan

illions of new dollars could flow toward transportation funding each year under a plan proposed Wednesday by Jacksonville Senator Robert Nichols. Nichols announced the filing of SB 5 and SJR 5, a legislative package that would allow voters to decide whether to dedicate part of annual motor vehicle sales taxes to road and bridge funding. He was joined by Lt. Governor Dan Patrick, who

Serving the Community Since 1988 Skilled Nursing Services 24-hour licensed nursing care I.V. Therapy Medication Management Enteral Therapy Infusion Therapy Comprehensive Wound Care Respite Care

In-patient and Out-Patient Rehabilitation Physical Therapy

Fall Prevention Program Strength and Endurance Program Gait Training Decrease healing time for injuries

Occupational Therapy

Neuro Re-education Activities of Daily Living Training Contracture Prevention Program Home Evaluation and Assessment

Speech Therapy

Swallowing Program (Vital Stim Therapy) Speech Intelligibility Cognitive Retraining

Social Services Activities & Recreation Family Program Barber & Beauty Shop Services

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The services provided are but a glimpse of how we can help your loved one receive the best services available in the community. Mission Nursing & Rehabilitation Center is able to provide services that focus on treatment and our primary objective is on returning you home as soon as possible.

Conveniently located across from Mission Regional Medical Center

MEMBER 2015

TEXAS PRESS ASSOCIATION Mission, TX

To La Joya & Rio Grande City

To McALLEN

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Bryan Rd.

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

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MISSION NURSING HOME

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.

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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 6, 2015

La Joya ISD’s 3 high school mariachi groups advance to state

ll three La Joya ISD high schools have a mariachi group vying for a state championship title Saturday, Feb. 7, in San Antonio. Saturday, Jan. 24, Mariachi Los Coyotes (from La Joya High School), Mariachi Sol (from Juarez-Lincoln High School), and Mariachi Los Lobos (from Palmview High School) each earned a Division One rating at the MASBA (Mexican American School Board Members Association) competition in Edinburg.

The mariachi music program at La Joya ISD is one of the nation’s most respected and emulated fine arts programs at the high school level. After 33 years in existence, it is no wonder that the three groups from La Joya ISD have maintained their status as the top high school mariachi groups in the state. With a strong history rooted in true Mexican tradition, the mariachi sound is synonymous with La Joya ISD. Throughout the years, La Joya ISD’s mariachis have traveled everywhere proud-

ly representing the school district and the Rio Grande Valley in numerous parades and festivals – worldwide. Recently, Mariachi Los Lobos (from Palmview High School) was chosen to participate at the 2012 Presidential Inauguration in Washington DC – an honor few get to experience in their lifetime. The three organizations have managed to continuously become frontrunners in their own right amongst high school mariachis.

thing wrong with the way the district has run. There’s been issues with certain items that have happened,” Cantu said. “I think what the community is saying is, ‘We want transparency; we want somebody

to manage better. We want to understand projects better.’” But just after deciding to solicit applications from candidates with a four-year de-

County eyes new district manager

By Julie Silva t’s possible the next Hidalgo County Drainage District manager will be selected next week without an external search for applicants. After current director Godfrey Garza told the board Wednesday he would not be continuing in his capacity after his contract is up Feb. 16, Pct. 1 Commissioner A.C. Cuellar suggested Raul Sesin, county planning administrator, for the position. Members of the Hidalgo County Commissioners Court, which also serves as the Drainage District Board, have been debating for weeks whether the new manager should be an engineer. Garza is not an engineer, but there is an engineer on staff. County Judge Ramon Garcia has said he wants the next leader of the drainage district to be an engineer because that person is negotiating with other engineers and needs that expertise. In recent months, Garcia has questioned payments made by the county to Garza’s company, Integ. But Pct. 2 Commissioner Eddie Cantu said he believes the board just needs a good manager. “From what I’ve seen, nobody is saying there is any-

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See DISTRICT MANAGER 12A

Authorities make arrest in rural Peñitas shooting

idalgo County Sheriff’s Office made an arrest in a shooting in Peñitas over the weekend, according to a news release. Before midnight Saturday, deputies responded to a home in the 160000 block of Date Palm Drive in rural Peñitas. There, they found 32-year-old Raul Garza with a gunshot wound in his chest. He was airlifted to a local hospital, but later died.

He was pronounced dead by Pct. 2, Place 2 Justice of the Peace Jaime “Jerry” Muñoz, who ordered an autopsy. Deputies believe the shooting occurred when an argument got heated between Garza and 38-year-old Rodolfo Saenz, states the news release. A criminal complaint states Saenz confessed to the shooting. Saenz has been charged

Rodolfo Saenz

with murder and was taken to Hidalgo County jail on a $1.75 million bond.

lifestyle

February 6, 2015

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NEWS | SPORTS | ENTERTAINMENT | PHOTOS

Mission Historical Museum presents Artist Market Days

he Mission Historical Museum (MHM) presents Artisan Market Days, a Mexican-themed market extravaganza, on Friday and Saturday, Feb. 13 and 14, from 10 a.m. to 5 pm on both days, and Sunday, Feb. 15, from 12 to 4 p.m. The event will highlight traditional products by over 50 international artisan vendors from throughout Mexico; culturally charged musical performances, with a special four-hour Pancho Villa act by Hacienda Villa; sidewalk chalk-art demonstrations by various international and local artists and more. Admission is free and open to the public. Artisans from several

Mexican states, including San Luis Potosí, Nuevo Leon, Tamaulipas, Mexico Distrito Federal and Coahuila, will fill the MHM grounds selling an array of unique products, such as women’s shawls and blouses; men’s and women’s belts and boots; hand-made jewelry; rugs and blankets; an assortment of candies and salsas; natural aloe vera beauty products; fine artworks and pottery. Musical entertainment for the three-day event will feature performances by The Cruisers, Freddy Fender impersonator Juan Gonzalez, Conjunto Estrella Band, Mission Parks and Recreation Folklorico, Grupo Jarocho, Nuevo Flamenco by

Mario Aleman and others. A special four hour performance act by Hacienda Villa, “El Show de Pancho Villa y sus Dorado Show,” presents a spectacular display of historically inspired skits with interpretive folklorico and mariachi performances based on the Mexican Revolution of 1910. The festivities do not stop when the museum also hosts a “love bird” program on Feb. 14 with “Tacos, Tragos y Trio” from 5:30 to 8 p.m. The ticketed program includes an evening of entertainment by folk music artists Rumbo al' Anacua followed by Trio Bolero music and a gourmet taco dinner. Tickets are $25 per couple

and can be purchased at the museum. Seating is limited, and early ticket purchase is encouraged. The Mission Historical Museum Artisan Market Days is a collaborative event accompanying the Mega Winter Texan Fiesta, which will be hosted by the Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce on Feb. 14 from 1 to 4 p.m. at Leo Peña Placita Park. Winter Texans can pick up tickets for a free barbecue sandwich lunch at the Fiesta. Tickets will be available at the Museum on Friday, Feb. 13. For more information, call the museum office at 580-8646 or visit us at www. missionmuseum.org.

The Swing Street Big Band leads out the evening’s entertainment. Under the direction of by Bob Comeau, the band is made of 17 musicians who play a wide repertoire of music from the Big Band era. Their repertoire includes such favorites as “In the Mood,” “Sixteen Bars of Blues,” “I’m Getting Sentimental Over You,” “April In Paris,” “I Can’t Stop Loving You” and “Moonlight Serenade.” The Senior Ambassadors, a popular group comprised of 44 members from across the United States and Canada – along with a few locals – are led by Virgel Kroeker. They sing a wide variety of musical styles, including patriotic, spiritual, light popular and old time music. Their

accompanists, Esther Hewitt and Rosetta Jeffries, haves been with the group for 24 years and nine years, respectively. Opening with their theme song, “Rio Grande Valley Home,” the Senior Ambassadors move through their varied program, including “Let All Men Sing,” a contemporary piece; the popular 1985 number “Put Your Head on my Shoulder”; and spirituals, “Soon and Very Soon” and “Good-Bye World, GoodBye” sung in Barbershop style. “Tell My Father,” is a song about a young soldier in the Civil War sending his final message to his family. “God Bless America” is another signature piece which concludes their portion of the program.

The popular Rio Grande Valley Concert Band, under the direction of Gene Goede and Gary Meidt, will close the concert. Along with local musicians, the band is made up of Winter Texans from 16 states and five Canadian provinces. The band’s musical selections bring out the patriotic spirit with “Emblem of Unity March,” “The Great American West Suite,” “Armed Forces – The Pride of America,” “1812 Overture Finale,” “Stars & Stripes Overture” and more. Tickets are $7 and are available at the Progress Times office at 1217 N. Conway, Mission, or from any Mission Lions Club member. Tickets will also be available at the door.

izing. Dinner begins at 7:30 p.m. with an Argentinian three-course meal complete with a Brazilian salad, flank steak with chimichui sauce accompanied by fingerling potatoes slow roasted in duck fat and plantain medallions as the entreé. Dessert which will alternate with a chocoflan and a trés leches cake. The night would not be complete without entertainment from the Valley Symphony Orchestra. From New York City, internationally renowned guest artists, Daniel Binelli on the bandonéon and Polly Ferman on the piano, will be the featured artists performing spectacular Tango renditions accompanied by a specially hand-picked

all-chair ensemble of VSO musicians. The program will transport the audience to Buenas Aires and the streets of Argentina as the musicians perform music such as “La Cumparsita” while Tango dancers entertain with the sensual strength of the dance. Individual tickets are $150 and sponsorships start at $500 for Boleo; $1,000, Rueda;

$2,500, Promenade; $5,000, Media Luna; $10,000, Québrada; and $25,000 for the Tango Argentino Bandonéon Title sponsorship. All sponsorships can be secured at www.valleyorchestra.org or by calling the Box Office to 661-1615. For more information

Texas Lions Camp benefit concert is tonight

et ready for an evening of excellent entertainment as three local musical groups join together for a special concert at Trinity Worship Center in Pharr on Friday, Feb. 6. The Rio Grande Valley Concert Band, Swing Street Big Band and the Senior Ambassadors will perform a benefit concert for the Texas Lions Camp (TLC) for children with physical disabilities. The three groups are donating their services. Each group will perform a program of about 30 minutes each. The program begins at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6 p.m. Trinity Worship Center is located at 4801 N. Cage Blvd, Pharr, just north of Nolana on the southbound access road of Exp. 281.

VSO presents ‘Tango Argentino Symphony Gala 2015’

cALLEN – The public is invited to join the members of the Valley Symphony Orchestra celebrating their 63rd year in the Rio Grande Valley at the Tango Argentino Symphony Gala 2015 when the VSO honors Glynn Morgan and Trudie Elmore Abbott as the 2015 Cultural Leaders. The gala will be held on Thursday, Feb. 19, at the McAllen Convention Center Ballroom from 6:30 to 10 p.m. The event begins with a reception at 6:30 p.m. complete with white-glove champagne service and complimentary wine service throughout the evening. There will be a silent auction and wine-pull fundraiser during the social-

See VSO 7A

Gone Country: Bling it up for final Alumni Ball Feb. 27

ith a theme of “Boots and Bling,” rhinestones and ropers are invited to The University of Texas-Pan Ameri-

page 6A

can’s last Alumni Ball before it starts a new chapter in Fall 2015 as The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. It takes place on Friday, Feb. 27, at the Boggus Ford Events Center, 3000 N. Cage in Pharr, at 6:30 p.m. Proceeds will benefit student scholarships. “All alumni are welcome on what is sure to be one of the most celebrated nights of the year,” said Clara Dina Hinojosa, interim director with the UTPA Office of Alumni Relations. Tickets are $100 each and can be purchased online at bronccountry.utpa.edu/alumniball or at the UTPA Alumni Center in Edinburg, 2402 S. Closner Blvd. The celebration will also

See GONE COUNTRY 7A

Events Calendar

Feb ruary 6 – Winners from the public voting for the Eighth Annual Mission Quilt Show will be announced at the “Turning of the Quilts” at the Mission Historical Museum at 2 p.m. The Mission Historical Museum is located at 900 Doherty. Admission is free. For more information, call 580-8646. Feb ruary 6 – The Mission Computer Club will meet at 10 a.m. in the Speer Memorial Library Community Room. All levels of users are welcome to attend, and meetings are free. Contact Edna Morales at the library at 580-8478 for more information. Feb ruary 6 – The International Museum of Art & Science hosts an Astronomy Science Fair, “All Things Jupiter,” from 4 to 8 p.m. at 1900 W. Nolana in McAllen. Included in the general price of admission, there will be science experiments, arts and crafts activities, solar system presentations, night sky viewing with telescopes and SMART Table activities. Call 682-0123 for more information. Feb ruary 6 – The Sixth Annual Mega Purse Event benefitting the Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley takes place from 6 to 10 p.m. at 724 N. Cage in Pharr for an evening of purse and accessory shopping, music, food, massages and silent auctions. Tickets for the event are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. For tickets or information, go to foodbankrgv.com or call 904-4513 during business hours. Feb ruary 7 – Ron Renk will present a program, “Wildlife of Bentsen State Park,” on Saturday, Feb. 7, at 2 p.m. at Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park and World Birding Center. The program is free with park admission. Pre-registration is required, and space is limited. The park is located at 2800 South Bentsen Palm Drive in Mission. Call 584-9156 to reserve a spot. Feb ruary 8 – National Butterfly Center, 3333 Butterfly Drive, Mission, will present “Butterflying Basics at the NBC” from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Admission is $12. Call 583-5400. Feb ruary 10 – At 7 p.m., Estero Llano Grande State Park presents “Rare Birds of South Texas: Tales from the Twitch” with Stephanie Galla from Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Habitat Conservation. She will speak about some of the Valley’s rarest birds seen in recent history, their biology, and stories related to their stay. The park is located at 3301 S. International Blvd. in Weslaco. For more information, call Javier de Leon at 565-3919. Feb ruary 11 – The Upper Valley Home Owners Association meets at Twin Lakes RV Park, 301 N. Shary Road at 9 a.m. for discussions on tax issues. Owners of RVs and park models are invited. Feb ruary 12 – The International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 Nolana in McAllen, presents “Art after Dark” from 6 to 9 p.m. Artist Jason Bready will give instruction with acrylic painting. Cost is $40 for IMAS members and $45 for others. All materials are included. Seats are limited; register by calling 682-0123. All participants must be 21 and over. Feb ruary 12 – Buckner Children and Family Services, 3780 N. Bentsen Palm Dr. in Mission, will present a foster care information meeting at 6 p.m. for families to serve as foster group parents at the Rio Grande Children’s Home campus in Mission and the Valley. For information or a reservation to attend the meeting, call Nelida Tristan at 585-4847 or email ntristan@buckner.org. Feb ruary 12 – Hilary Swarts will present a program at 6 p.m. on the endangered ocelot at Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset in McAllen. Admission is $3 per person. For more information, call 681-3370 or visit www.quintamazatlan.com. Feb ruary 12 – Parents and children can explore solids and liquids during a fragrant experiment at this week’s Family Fun Night at the Old Art Studio at the International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 W. Nolana in McAllen. The program, from 4 to 6 p.m., is $2 per person, supplies included, in addition to the regular museum admission price. Seating is limited. Call 682-1564 for more information. Feb ruary 12-13 – The Rio Grande Valley Coastal Expo will be held on February 12 and 13 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Edinburg World Birding Center, 714 S. Raul Longoria Rd. Educators and the public are invited to register their children and students for the free educational, hands-on event that teaches children in grades first through sixth about coastal ecosystems, South Texas wildlife and outdoor adventures. Contact Lily Cruz at lcruz@cityofedinburg.com or 381-9922. Space is limited; early registration is encouraged. Feb ruary 14 – The Mission Lighthouse chapter of Aglow International will meet at 4 p.m. at Taco Ole, 2316 N. Conway in Mission free merienda. The power of prayer is this month’s topic. For more information, call Liza Rayo at 776-8505 or Connie Escamilla at 279-7887.

See EVENTS CALENDAR 7A

February 6, 2015

Inspection stickers set to expire

USTIN–The two sticker system for vehicle inspection and registration will soon be a thing of the past. Beginning March 1, Texas drivers will only have to display a single registration sticker in the bottom driver's side corner of their windshields. Vehicles will still have to pass the same safety and emissions standards at licensed inspection stations as they do today, but those results will now be kept electronically by the state. Dallas Senator Royce West, who carried the Senate bill that created the new law, said this program is good for the state, for the environment and for drivers. "(This law) will help to reduce fraud, promote cleaner air and increase safety and convenience for Texas vehicle owners," he said at a news conference Tuesday. Cars will need to pass inspection before drivers can renew vehicle registration. For the first year, if registration expires before inspection, that car won't have to be inspected until it needs to be re-

EVENTS CALENDAR

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newed again in 2016. If the inspection expires before the registration, the driver will have to have the car inspected before renewing its registration. After this year, the two expiration dates will be in sync, and a car only has to have the inspection done before registration is renewed. Inspection stations will send inspection results to the state, which will verify the current inspection status of a vehicle when the owner applies for registration renewal. The costs of registration and inspection will not change; a person will only be responsible for the $7 plus emissions testing cost when they have their car inspected. The $7.50 the state charges for inspecfrom pg 6A

Feb ruary 14 – In the next Saturday Safari, “Top Zoo Chef,” children and their parents can help Gladys Porter Zoo dieticians feed some of the zoo animals after a class on what the animals eat. Safaris begin at 10 a.m. Tour, arts and crafts, animal encounters and snacks are included. Fee is $15 per adult or children for ages 4 and up. To register, call 548-9453 or download a registration form at www. gpz.org. Pre- registration is required. The zoo is located at 500 Ringgold in Brownsville. Feb ruary 14 – The International Museum of Art & Science will hold “Winter Texan Saturday” for seniors age 55 and over from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. It’s included in the price of general admission. Receive a guided tour of IMAS, free coffee and donuts and a program on technology. General admission to IMAS is $5 per person. For more information, call 682-0123 or visit www.imasonline.org. Feb ruary 15 – Head to Gladys Porter Zoo, 500 Ringgold in Brownsville, for a “Valentine’s Day” themed animal play day. It begins at 11 a.m. at Gorilla Island and moves on to surrounding exhibits throughout the day. It is included with admission. For information, call 546-7187. Feb ruary 19 – Parents and children can create an easy sculpture using flowers and plaster during this week’s Family Fun Night at the Old Art Studio at the International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 W. Nolana in McAllen. The program, from 4 to 6 p.m., is $2 per person, supplies included, in addition to the regular museum admission price. Seating is limited. Call 682-1564 for more information. Feb ruary 20 – The Mission Computer Club will meet at 10 a.m. in the Speer Memorial Library Community Room. All levels of users are welcome to attend, and meetings are free. Contact Edna Morales at the library at 580-8478 for more information. To see the complete Events Calendar for the coming weeks, go to www.ptrgv.com.

tions will be added to the registration renewal fee. Tuesday's press conference is part of a statewide education initiative to let all Texans know about the impending change. Department of Motor Vehicles Director Whitney Brewster outlined a number of sources that drivers can use to navigate the new law. A website, twostepsonesticker.com, has been set up that will allow drivers to calculate when they need to have an inspection by entering the expiration date of their two stickers. It also contains information on registration and inspection requirements, procedures and costs. County tax assessor collector offices have also been given materials to educate citizens. DPS Deputy Director RenEarl Bowie said that drivers will have until March 1, 2016, to get acquainted with the inspection side of the law, but they can still be ticketed for out of date registration.

EXHIBIT

GONE COUNTRY from pg 6A

honor five UTPA distinguished alumni and one Presidential Pillar, as the 2015 Pillars of Success. Honorees were chosen from among their peers for not only their career and personal success but for their ability to serve as role models for current and future Rio Grande Valley students. They include John David Franz (BA ’81), attorney and former City of Hidalgo mayor; Richard H. Garcia (BBA ’71), attorney and City of Edinburg mayor; Jo Ann Gama (M.Ed. ’03), co-founder, president and superintendent, IDEA Public Schools; Carmen Pagan (BA ’87, MA ’89), co-owner of Milestones Therapeutic Associates; and Linda A. Tovar (BBA ’08), senior manager of public affairs for the border region, H-E-B.

VSO

from pg 6A

about the event, guest artists, sponsorship opportunities, gala committee activities or to donate an item to the silent auction or wine pull fundraiser, call Vivian Vargas at 661-1615 or via email to admin@valleyorchestra.org. from pg 2A

Saturdays – Feb. 21 and 28 and March 7. Several exhibitor photographers will be at the gallery to share the techniques they used with gallery patrons. All guests attending the opening reception will have an opportunity to their vote for the “Peoples’ Choice” award. The artists’ works will be available for sale. The free event is open to the public, and drawings will be held throughout the evening. Hors d’oeuvres and a beverage buffet will be served. Photographers interest-

ed in submitting their works must be members of UVAL and can join now. Each photographer may enter up to five framed images ready for gallery presentation, of any subject they choose that is suitable for family viewing. The submission deadline is Feb. 10. Guidelines for submissions are available at Upper Valley Art League, 921 E. 12th Street in Mission. Call 583-2787 during gallery hours for more information. Email inquiries to uval.texas@gmail.com.

went way, way, way back into my past and my dad’s Baptist church. I love modern worship but I just love that old stuff because they were written in such desperate and perilous times, and out of great pain comes great resolve, I think. When I sing them, they go deeper in ways to me than a lot of things I reach out for when I’m in that spiritual drought,” he adds. Wes added, “The guys all grew up, especially Michael, singing hymns in the church. There’s a lot of truth and power in those old hymns. Our song, ‘We Believe,’ had deeper meaning and I think gave us the confidence after going No. 1 for 15 weeks with such

deep lyrics, that maybe this is the time. The circumstances that the people were in when they wrote the songs were incredible. ‘I’m blind but now I see?’ That was literal. For our fans, I think it will be timeless. These songs aren’t going to go out of style anytime soon.”

NEWSBOYS

from pg 2A

ProgressTimes Like Us on Facebook

This year’s Presidential Pillar is Alfred H. Ogletree. Considered the “father of Bronc baseball,” Ogletree served as head coach at UTPA from 1969 to 1997. He led the Broncs to their first-ever Col-

lege World Series appearance in 1971, ending his Bronc coaching career with 1,217 wins. For ticket information and accommodations, call 6652500.

and 3 p.m. on Sunday. Performances are at the Carnahan Auditorium, 317 W. Fore, Pharr. Tickets are $7 for adults and $5 for anyone under age 18. Tickets will be sold one huor before each show. For more information, call 648-2488 or 655-9308. · The Second Annual Heart Beat featuring Blasterjaxx opens at 7 p.m. at Boggus Ford Events Center, 3000 N. Cage in Pharr. Tickets are $37.50 per person, available at ticketmaster.com or by calling 800-745-3000. February 14 · Valentines night offers a nostalgic “Barbara and Frank” tribute with the Vegas act of Sebastian Anzaldo and Sharon Owens singing the hits of Barbara Streisand and Frank Sinatra. “The Way We Were” show is a 90-minute performance of the duos’ signature hits. Opening act is McAllen’s 11-year-old singing sensation Katie Blackwell accompanied by Knox Jones on the guitar. The show begins at 8 p.m. at the McAllen Civic Center, 10th Street and Expressway 83. Tickets range from $21 to $111 plus fees. Tickets are available at Joyce’s Boutique, 120 S. Broadway in McAllen, the McAllen Convention Center Box Office at Ware Rd. and Expressway 83 and ticketmaster.com or 800-7453000. For more information, call 358-2755. · The Texas Conjunto Music Hall of Fame and Museum presents the Ninth Annual Valentine’s Dance “Noche de Ronda” and Scholarship Fundraiser featuring Noe Pro and the Band. It takes place from 8 p.m. to 12 midnight at the San Benito Knights of Columbus Hall, 826 E. Stenger Street. Admission is $20 per person. Proceeds will go to support the organization and its scholarship fund. For tickets and table reservations, call Rey Avila at 2451666. Tickets are also on sale at the San Benito K.C. Hall at 399-4257, or Harlingen Area Chamber of Commerce at 423-5440. Reservations must be made by Feb. 12. · The Pharr Community Theater and St. George’s Orthodox Church will celebrate St. Valentine’s Day with a dinner and performance at 7 p.m. at St. George’s Orthodox Church Hall, 704 W. Sam Houston in Pharr. A perfor-

mance of “The St. George’s Valentine Radio Show” will follow the dinner. Seating is limited and pre-purchased tickets for $14 per person can be purchased Monday through Friday through Feb. 13 between 6:30 to 6 p.m. at the Carnahan Theater, 317 W. Gore in Pharr. For tickets or more information, call 648-2036. February 18 · The visually perplexing, yet always entertaining, Blue Man Group, arrives at State Farm Arena in Hidalgo with their very particular style of humor and unspoken look on life. The one-night performance begins at 7:30 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Ticket prices range from $42 to $62 per person. Go to ticketmaster.com or call 800-7453000. February 20 · See Juan Gabriel at State Farm Arena in Hidalgo for a one-night show beginning at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Tickets run from $86.50 to $197 per person and are available at ticketmaster.com or 800-745-3000. · Gene Watson performs with Johnny Lee and Johnny Rodriguez at Boggus Ford Events Center, 3000 N. Cage in Pharr. Doors open at 6 p.m. Reserved seat tables are $33.50 and $39.50. Standing room only tickets are $30.50. Buy tickets at ticketmaster. com or by calling 800-7453000. February 21 · The Museum of South Texas History’s 25th Annual Pioneer & Ranching Crafts Day will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. A celebration of the Rio Grande Valley’s pioneer and ranching heritage, the indoor and outdoor festival features artisans providing authentic craft demonstrations, hands-on activities, music and dance performances suitable for all ages. Visitors will enjoy a interactive and entertaining event while learning about South Texas traditions and foods. The event is included in the regular admission price. Prices range from free for children ages 3 and under. The museum is located in downtown Edinburg at 200 N. Closner. Calll 383-6911 for more information.

ATTRACTIONS

from pg 2A

To see the complete Coming Attractions calendar, go to www.ptrgv.com.

February 6, 2015

page 8

Sharyland Rattlers state ranked

By Luciano Guerra he Sharyland Rattlers have earned an elite status being ranked No. 20 statewide. With a 23-5 overall and 6-1 district record going into Tuesday night’s game, the Rattlers boys basketball team was ranked 20th among all 5A schools by the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches (TABC). That’s one spot behind the only team that has defeated the Rattlers in district play this season – the Edinburg Vela Sabercats. After the Rattlers’ 5844 win Tuesday night over the Pioneer Diamondbacks and the Sabercats’ 87-56 win over Rio Grande City, both teams remain atop the District 31-5A standings as of today with Vela holding a slim one game lead over Sharyland. With four games remaining on their schedule, one being a rematch with the Sabercats, the Rattlers are still in control of their own destiny as they seek to earn at least a share of the district crown. The Diamondbacks, who led by two points late in the third quarter, gave the Rattlers a run for their money Tuesday evening, but that was when the tide turned in the Rattlers’ favor. “I’m extremely proud of all those kids at Pioneer,” said Sharyland head coach David Keith about his former players. “The way they battled us tonight proves that they’re a good team. They’re athletic and they turned this game into a dogfight for three quarters. We were finally able to knock a few shots down in the fourth quarter that we couldn’t hit early on and what looked like was going to happen in the first three quarters finally happened in the fourth.” “I have to give credit to Coach Gonzalez for having

RIGHT: Sharyland’s Joshua Ruiz and Pioneer’s Zack Ramon get tangled up as they fight for a rebound during the third quarter of the Rattlers’ 58-44 win over the Diamondbacks Tuesday evening. Progress Times photo by Luciano Guerra

his kids ready to play,” added Keith. “They did a really good job tonight.” Of the Rattlers four remaining games two are on the road and two are at home, including the Vela rematch. Playing the Sabercats in front of his team’s home faithful is something Keith expects to play into the Rattler’s favor come next Friday the 13th. “It seems as if we’ve been playing better at home,” said Keith. “Pioneer has been getting better. Of course they beat Veterans Memorial Friday so we knew that they were going to come in confident, hot and riding the wave from that win. We knew we were going to see a much better team than the one we saw the first time around and I think we can expect the same thing from all the other teams in the district, including Vela.” With 10 of the 12 players on the Rattlers’ roster being seniors this year, this is a season that Keith has been building towards for four years. As much as he has been focused on building a great team over that period, there is one goal that supersedes anything that can happen on the basketball court. “Our goal for this year is everything,” said Keith. “Ultimately it’s to have these young men leave this season and the past four years as better men. To have them be great men in the community and be great family men. That is our ultimate goal. But for the season the state tour-

See RATTLERS 11A

Sharyland’s Valdez dominates district diving

By Luciano Guerra

Basketball Standings as of Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2015 Boys

DISTICT 30-6A Overall District GB McAllen Memorial 18-11 8-1 McAllen High 23-7 7-2 1 Palmview High 19-11 5-3 2.5 La Joya High 20-12 4-5 4 McAllen Rowe 14-14 4-5 4 -----------------------------------------------Mission High 12-15 2-6 5.5 Juarez-Lincoln 6-20 0-8 7.5

Girls

DISTICT 30-6A Overall District GB McAllen Rowe 19-12 9-1 Palmview High 19-9 8-2 1 McAllen Memorial 16-14 7-4 2.5 McAllen High 14-17 4-6 5 ------------------------------------------------Juarez-Lincoln High 7-23 3-7 6 La Joya High 8-20 3-8 6.5 Mission High 7-23 2-8 7

DISTICT 31-5A Overall District GB DISTICT 31-5A Overall District GB Edinburg Vela 25-5 9-0 - Edinburg Vela 22-8 11-0 Sharyland High 24-5 7-1 1.5 Veterans Memorial 19-11 8-2 2.5 Veterans Memorial 26-5 6-3 3 Roma 18-12 6-4 4.5 Valley View 13-16 3-6 6 Sharyland High 18-13 5-5 5.5 Sharyland Pioneer 15-13 3-6 6 ------------------------------------------------16-15 4-6 6.5 ------------------------------------------------- Rio Grande City 6-19 1-9 9.5 Roma 8-16 2-6 6.5 Valley View 10 Rio Grande City 8-20 0-8 8.5 Sharyland Pioneer 3-28 1-10 Note: Teams above dotted line represent the current teams in position to make playoffs.

he phrase “taking a dive” has come to mean losing an athletic competition on purpose. Case in point, boxers have been known to take a dive by pretending to be knocked out when they are throwing a fight. When Sharyland’s Sandra Valdez takes a dive however it’s not to lose, it’s to win. Take for example Valdez’s performance at the recent District 32-5A Swim and Dive Championship held at Bannworth Park Natatorium in Sharyland. Valdez not only dove her way to her second district championship in a row but she did it in record breaking fashion – breaking the previous record of

252.45 set by Mission High’s Emily Alvarado by nearly 167 points. “I set a new personal best at the district meet,” Valdez said. “My best had been 335 points but I scored 419 at that meet. I saw that I was doing well at first so that gave me confidence and I kept diving well. I’ve been working really hard and it has paid off.” Of the 11 dives Valdez made at the district meet, all but one scored higher than 18. Her lowest score of 14 came on a backwards somersault, while her highest score of 22.5 came on an inward somersault tuck. Valdez made the diving world stand up and take notice of her skills last year as

See VALDEZ 11A

February 6, 2015

obituaries

Guadalupe Canales-Ramirez NDIANAPOLIS, IN Guadalupe “Lupita” Canales-Ramirez, 82, from Springmill Meadows, Indianapolis, Ind. She was born in Mission to Silvestre and Maria de Jesus Canales on July 24, 1932, and was a longtime McAllen resident before moving to Indianapolis in 2010. Survivors include her children, Ivette Bruns, Julieta Ivonne Livingston, Edith Alaniz and Jorge I. Ramirez Jr.; and seven grandchildren She was preceded in death by her parents and siblings, Natalia Palomo, Ernestina Canales and Silvestre Canales Jr. A funeral mass was held on Feb. 2 at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in McAllen. Burial followed at Valley Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Mission. Guadalupe Garcia ISSION - Guadalupe Garcia, 74, passed away on Thursday, Jan. 29, 2015, at McAllen Medical Center. Survivors include her husband, Rogelio Garcia; children, Rosa Buenrostro, Linda Mendoza and Nicolas Garcia; siblings, Jesus Perez, Josefina Valdez, Gregorio Salinas, Domingo Salinas, Arturo Salinas, Consuelo Salinas, Juan Salinas and Jose Salinas; and eight grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Domingo Salinas and Trinidad Tudon Salinas, and brothers, Oscar Salinas and Anselmo Salinas. A funeral mass was held on Jan. 31at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Mission. Burial followed at Catholic Cemetery in Mission. Ramona Angelica Jaramillo ISSION – Ramona Angelica Jaramillo, 77, passed away on Monday, Feb. 2, 2015, in Mission after a lengthy battle with ALS. She was born on Aug. 22, 1937, in McAllen, to Jose

and Margarita Herrera. Survivors include her husband of 61 years, Manuel Jaramillo Sr.; children, Manuel Jaramillo III, Jose Armando Jaramillo, Ramona Mancha, Leticia Barajas and Rosa Miller-Head; brother, John Herrera; sister, Lucy Bennett; and 13 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Jose and Margarita Herrera; great-granddaughter, Abigail Carranza; and brothers, Antonio and Francisco Herrera. A funeral service was held on Feb. 5 at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church in McAllen. Burial followed at R.G.V. State Veterans Cemetery in Mission. Virginia Jean Keniry ISSION - Virginia Jean (Fox) Keniry, 76, of Mission, passed away on Jan. 29, 2015. Mrs. Keniry lived most of her life in Mechanicville, N.Y. before retiring in Mission in 2004. She was a member of the John H. Ahern Volunteer Rescue Squad and taught CCD at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Mechanicville. Survivors include her husband, Edward Keniry; son, Christopher Keniry; daughters Karyn Keniry-Thompson, Claire Mone and Dr. Megan Keniry; sister, Shirley Bagnoli; and seven grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her siblings, Thomas Fox, Richard Fox, Charles Fox, Robert Fox, Yvonne Lyon, Laverne Mead, Agnes Rubitz, Jerry Fox and James Fox. A funeral mass was held on Feb. 5 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Mission. Memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. Martin De La Cruz Medina ALMVIEW - Martin De La Cruz Medina, 35, passed away on Monday, Feb. 2, 2015, at Mission Regional Medical Center. Mr. Medina was born

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in Columbia City, Ind. and lived in Palmview most of his life. Survivors, all from Palmview, include his parents, Jose and Frances Medina; and siblings, Diana Martinez, Jose J. Medina and Denise Alvarez. A graveside service was held on Feb. 4 at Lord and I Cemetery in Palmview. Hilda Valverde Peña ISSION - Hilda Valverde Peña, 85, passed away on Friday, Jan. 30, 2015, at her home in Mission. Mrs. Peña was born on Dec. 28, 1929, in El Centro to Trinidad M. Valverde and Rafaela Guerra. She married Horacio Peña Sr. in 1953. Survivors include her sisters, Ella Longoria, Rafaela Marroquin, Elva Kost and Dora Valverde; children, Diana Perez, Horacio Peña Jr., Edward Peña and Daniel Peña; and 11 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband; brothers, Trinidad and Guillermo; and sisters, Pioquinta Flores and Belia Escobar. A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 3, at 10 a.m. at El Mesias United Methodist Church in Mission with Pastor Cindy Layton officiating. Burial will follow at Laurel Hill Cemetery in Mission. Rodolfo Salinas ULLIVAN CITY Rodolfo Salinas, 71, passed away on Thursday, Jan. 29, 2015, at his home in Sullivan City. He was born in Diaz Ordaz, Tamaulipas, Mexico on Aug. 24, 1943, to Jose and Teofila Salinas. Survivors include his wife, Benita Salinas; daughters, Maricela Flores, Martha Serrato, Mireyda Olivarez, Mariana Garcia and Melida Salinas; siblings, Matias, Celestino, Hector, Benito, Noe, Angel Salinas, and Rosalia Hovey; and nine grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jose and Teofila Salinas, and sisters, Micaela Gonzalez, Maria de la Luz Salinas and Ernestina Limon. A funeral mass was held on Jan. 31 at Our Lady of

Guadalupe Catholic Church in Sullivan City. Burial followed at Sullivan City Cemetery. Sandra Cole Taylor ISSION – Sandra “Dee” Cole Taylor passed away on Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2015, following a lengthy battle with Parkinson’s. Mrs. Taylor was born on May 8, 1947, in Ashville, N.C. to Mabel and Bruce Cole. She graduated from Leicester High School and received her degree from Mars Hill University in 1968. She married Jerry Taylor on June 28, 1968, and they moved to Mission in 1980. She was a member of PEO and the First Presbyterian Church in Mission where she sang in the choir. She was employed at Quips and Quotes. She is survived by her husband and was preceded in death by her parents and her son, Gary. A memorial service was held on Saturday, Jan. 31, at First Presbyterian.

Notices

Maria Flores MISSION – A funeral service for Maria Flores was held on Thursday, Feb. 5, 2015, at Rivera Funeral Home in Mission. Jose R. Juarez MISSION – Jose R. Juarez, 89, passed away on Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2015, at Doctors Hospital in Edinburg. Alonso De Leon MISSION - Alonso De Leon, 54, passed away on Thursday, Jan. 29, 2015, at McAllen Medical Center. A funeral service was held on Feb. 2 at Legacy Funeral Home in Edinburg. Burial followed at San Jose Cemetery in Mission. Raul Gerardo De Leon PENITAS - Raul Gerardo De Leon, 32, passed away on Sunday, Feb. 1, 2015, at McAllen Medical Center. Jerry Evans MISSION - Jerry Evans, 77, passed away on Monday, Feb. 2, 2015, at Mission Regional Medical Center. Juan A. Garcia MISSION - Juan A. Garcia, 81, passed away on Sun-

ChurCh DireCtory BREAD OF LIFE CHURCH 2820 N. Conway Ave. • 581-1411 CHURCH OF THE GOOD SHEPHERD 4501 N. McColl. - McAllen CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS 29th & Dove - McAllen 618-0884 CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS Missonaries • 580-2570 CHRISTIAN SCIENCE CHURCH 911 N. Main - McAllen 686-4241 CONWAY AVENUE BAPTIST CHURCH 1 Mi. 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 1300 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 PALMVIEW APOSTOLIC CHURCH 7612 W. 6 Mile Ln. Mission • 735-2569

ROAD TO SALVATION ASSEMBLY OF GOD 239 W. 2nd St. - La Joya 1312 Oblate • 585-3261

OUR LADY QUEEN OF ANGELS One-half mile South Leo Avenue La Joya • 585-5223

SAN CRISTOBAL MAGALLANES & COMPANIONS PARISH

3805 Plantation Grove Blvd., Ste. 5

OUR LADY OF FATIMA CHURCH 6634 El Camino Real • Granjeno 279-4159

SAN MARTIN DE PORRES 5 mi. N. Conway, 1/2 Mile West Alton • 585-8001 & 585-8002

IGLESIA BAUTISTA BETANIA 851 S. Breyfogle Rd. • 585-5688

OUR LADY OF LOURDES CHURCH 2.5 miles S. Conway (FM 1016) Mission • 279-4159

ST. JOHN OF THE FIELDS CATHOLIC CHURCH 1052 Washington Ave. • 585-2325

IGLESIA BAUTISTA CRISTO EL REY 1600 E. Bus. 83 - Mission

OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE CATHOLIC CHURCH 620 Dunlap • 585-2623

IGLESIA BAUTISTA COLONIAL 3713 N. La Homa Rd. • 585-5332

OUR LADY OF THE HOLY ROSARY CHURCH 923 Matamoros St. • 581-2193

ST. PETER & ST. PAUL EPISCOPAL CHURCH 2310 N. Stewart Rd. 585-5005

IGLESIA BAUTISTA DEL VALLE 217 W. Mile 3 Rd. • 424-1602 Palmhurst

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

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

FREEDOM LIFE CHURCH 2214 W. Griffin Pkwy. • 519-7000 Mission GRACIA DIVINA MINISTRY 4122 N. Conway • 584-3112 GREAT OAKS COMMUNITY CHURCH 2722 N. Conway • 451-5500 Mission IGLESIA ADVENTISTA DEL SEPTIMO DIA 1725 W. Griffin Parkway 581-9008

IGLESIA DEL PUEBLO 7500 West Expressway 83 581-1900 IGLESIA DEL DIVINO REDENTOR 1020 North Los Ebanos Rd 585-5898

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

LA RESPUESTA CHURCH 405 W. 12th Street • 585-0787

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

MISSION CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1 mi. E. 495 • 585-6683

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

NEW HOPE AT THE BORDER 905 N. Conway • 585-4122

RIVER OF LIFE CHURCH 901 S. Shary Rd. (Located in the Holiday Inn Express Conference Room) 451-4838

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

Mission • 580-4551

ST. PAUL'S CATHOLIC CHURCH 1119 Francisco • 585-2701

TEMPLO BIBLICO 5 Mile/Conway • 581-4981 or 585-3831 TEMPLO EVANGELICO, M.B. CHURCH La Joya THE DOOR CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP

810 E. Veterans & La Homa Suite F.

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TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH 3701W. 3 Mile Line • 585-3261 WEST MISSION LUTHERAN FELLOWSHIP Pleasant Valley Ranch 7320 W. Exp. 83 • Mission 583-7667 VALLEY FELLOWSHIP 1708 E. Griffin Parkway Mission • 424-7200

MISSION AUTO ELECTRIC, INC. DBA

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KING, GUERRA, DAVIS & GARCIA

ATTORNEYS AT LAW DAVID H. GUERRA NEAL KING (retired) DARRELL DAVIS ESMERALDA GARCIA (retired) 301 E. Tom Landry • Mission • 585-1622

IMPLEMENT COMPANY, INC. MISSION 585-1618

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Julio Villarreal Sr. ISSION - Julio Villarreal Sr., 78, passed away on Feb. 1, 2015, at Solara Hospital in McAllen. He was a lifelong Mission resident and had a career as a truck driver for several local companies. Survivors include his wife of 55 years, Maria Villarreal; children, Julio Villarreal Jr. of Mission, Jaime Villarreal of Mission, Javier Villarreal of Edinburg and Thelma Villarreal of Mission; and 16 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Estanislado and Maria E. Villarreal. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 3, from 1 to 9 p.m. with a 7 p.m. rosary at Ric Brown Family Funeral Home in Mission. A funeral mass will be held on Wednesday, Feb. 4, at 10 a.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Mission. Burial will follow at Laurel Hill Cemetery in Mission.

day, Feb. 1, 2015, at his home in Mission. Burial will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 3, at 11:30 a.m. at Garden of Angels Cemetery in Mission. Rodolfo Garcia MISSION - Rodolfo Garcia passed away on Sunday, Feb. 1, 2015, at his home in Mission. Jose Luis Garza MISSION - Jose Luis Garza, 88, passed away on Thursday, Jan. 29, 2015, at Life Care Hospital in McAllen. Raul Gerardo Garza PEÑITAS - Raul Gerardo Garza, 32, passed away on Sunday, Feb. 1, 2015, at McAllen Medical Center. Virginia A. Keniry MISSION - Virginia A. Keniry, 76, passed away on Thursday, Jan. 29, 2015, at her home in Mission. Terrance Lynch MISSION - Terrance Lynch, 73, passed away on Sunday, Jan. 25, 2015, in Mission.

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On the Dean’s List

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. – Three Mission residents made the Dean's Honor Roll at Oklahoma City University for the 2014 fall semester. Matthew Sparks, Miguel Garza and Jorge Guerra were recognized by completing minimum of 12 credit hours and maintaining a grade point average of 3.5 or higher. All obituaries must be submitted by the funeral home. Obituary notices are run FREE OF CHARGE in the Progress Times if they are submitted in a timely manner to run the same week of the date of death. Otherwise, there is a fee for notices submitted later than the closest possible publication date. Late obituaries will be subject to a $50 charge.

Luis Martinez MISSION/RICHLAND, Wash. – Luis Martinez, 36, passed away on Sunday, Feb. 1, 2015, in Richland. Maria Antonia Rodriguez MISSION - Maria Antonia Rodriguez, 80, passed away on Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2015, at Comfort House in McAllen. Maria E. Salinas MISSION - Maria E. Salinas, 62, passed away on Sunday, Feb. 1, 2015, at Mission Regional Medical Center. Pedro Serrato MISSION - Pedro Serrato, 86 passed away on Sunday, Feb. 1, 2015, at his home in Mission. Maria Elena Degollado Soto MISSION - Maria Elena Degollado Soto, 61, passed away on Friday, Jan. 30, 2015, at Solara Hospital in McAllen. Cremation took place on Feb. 3 at Val Verde Memorial Gardens in Donna under the direction of Memorial Funeral Home in San Juan.

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DA's Office to accept credit card payments

DINBURG â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Hidalgo County Criminal District Attorney Ricardo Rodriguez Jr. has announced that the Check Fraud Division of the Hidalgo County District Attorney's will now

February 6, 2015

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com accept credit card payments on all check-related cases. "This advancement is part of our efforts to improve the efficiency of the office and make it more accessible to the public," Rodriguez said.

Hot check writers will have the ability to pay by credit card at the Check Fraud Division offices, located on the third floor of the Hidalgo County Courthouse. In addition, two mobile payment stations will also be assigned to the Check Fraud Division investigators tasked with serving warrants throughout the county. The increased ease of payment will lead to merchants receiving restitution more quickly in some cases. Rodriguez also plans to implement an online payment center as part of the office's new website that is currently under development.

Veterans Memorial FFA student projects show well at RGV event V eterans Memorial FFA students attained outstanding results at this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Rio Grande Valley FFA District Livestock Show. Earning reserve grand champion honors were: Zenaida Alaniz, market lamb; Javier Martinez, market hog. Champions in market division were: Bella Alaniz, middle weight market goat; Alexandra Salinas, south down market lamb; Zenaida

Alaniz, reserve champion for middle weight market goat and medium wool market lamb; Javier Martinez, reserve champion light cross market hog. Champion showman honors went to: A.J. Barba, senior champion showman market steer division; Alexandra Salinas, junior champion showman market goat division; Jorge Salinas, intermediate champion showman market lamb division; Jose

Salinas, intermediate champion showman market goat division. Christina Reyna earned reserve champion in the ABC heifer division. Other top place finishers from the Veterans Memorial FFA chapter included: Market steer division: Angel Sanchez, first place; Zenaida Alaniz, second place; A.J. Barba, second place; Miranda Farias, second place; Jorge Salinas, second place. Market hog division: Isaac Rodriguez, fourth place; Maria Cavazos, fourth place; Fernando Gonzalez, fourth place, Isabella Farias, sixth place; Randy Ruiz, sixth place. Market goat division: Marissa Garcia, second place; Jorge Salinas, second place; Samantha Diaz, third place; Emilio Hernandez, third place; Alexandra Salinas, third place; Fernando Gonzalez, fourth place; Jose Salinas, fourth place; Kendra Garcia, sixth place. Market lamb division: Bella Alaniz, first place; Marcus Cordova, second place; Erica Barrera, third place; Kendra Garcia, third place; A.J. Barba, fourth place; Jorge Salinas, fifth place. Breeding cattle division: Marissa Garcia, first place; David Bazan, second place; Christina Reyna, fourth place. Breeding hog division: Javier Martinez, fifth place. Breeding goat division: Roy Guerrero, third place.

February 6, 2015

VALDEZ from pg 8A

a freshman. She won the district and regional championships and then advanced to the state meet where she placed 14th. “I was really surprised that I did as well as I did last year but I worked really hard,” shared Valdez. “Since I started diving in junior high this is only my third year of competitive diving.

My goal for this year is to win regionals again.” While Valdez had only one other diver, Noelia Ariaga of Roma, to compete against at the district meet she more than doubled her score of 192.80. Even with such an impressive win in just her sophomore year Valdez expects to improve in years to come. “I definitely think I can do even better next year and

the year after that,” said Valdez. As the Lady Rattlers diving coach, Leslie Richardson recognizes what it is about Valdez that makes her so successful. “Sandra is that special kind of athlete that is very easy to direct,” Richardson said. “She’s very willing to take criticism or coaching advice and apply it to her diving. Having that type of

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athlete that is willing and open to take everything positively is rare.” “I’ve had Sandra since seventh grade and I have not seen another diver with the potential she has,” added Richardson. “It was a great accomplishment for her to go to state as a freshman and I’m looking for her to go to state this year. Our district zoning has changed so I’m waiting to see what kind of

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Sharyland Independent School District: Public Hearing Notice Sharyland Independent School District will hold a public hearing at 5:30 p.m., February 24, 2015 at the Sharyland Pioneer High School Auditorium 10001 N. Shary Rd. Mission, Texas. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the school district’s Academic Performance Report for the 201314 school year. In accordance with Texas Education Code Chapter 39, each district’s board of trustees is required to publish an annual report that includes the TAPR, campus performance objectives, a report of violent or criminal incidents, and information received under Texas Education Code §51.403(e) from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. The board of trustees is required to hold a hearing for public discussion of the report.

divers the other school districts have at our regional meet but I’m sure she’ll be fine.” The Conference 5A Region-VIII swimming and diving meet is being held at the Corpus Christi ISD Natatorium today and tomorrow. Today’s preliminaries will include the first eight dives while tomorrow’s finals will include the final three dives.

RATTLERS from pg 8A

nament would be fantastic.” Tonight the Rattlers will be traveling to Valley View to play the 3-6 Tigers. Sharyland will then close out the season with home games against Rio Grande City (0-8) and Vela (9-0) and the district finale at Veterans Memorial (6-3).

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STATE OF TEXAS NOTICE COUNTY OF HIDALGO

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TO: All interested Property Owners and Owners of Properties Within, and all Taxpayers in Hidalgo County Water Control and Improvement District No. 19, Mission, Texas. Please take Notice that a hearing will be held by the Board of Directors of Hidalgo County Water Control and Improvement District No. 19 on the 27th day of February 2015, at 9:00 a.m. at the Hunt Valley Visitor’s Center at 3506 Los Milagros, Mission, Texas 78573, to consider whether or not to exclude certain property from the boundaries of the District pursuant to Texas Water Code, Sections 51.754-51.758. The property is described as two (2) tracts of land containing 1.78 acres and 3.91 acres, more or less, out of Lot 124, John H. Shary Subdivision, a more particular description of the property proposed for exclusion is available at the offices of the District located at 3930 Plantation Gove, Mission, Hidalgo County, Texas 78572 (telephone no. 956-584-5653). The ground stated for the exclusion is that the property proposed for exclusion will be used for non-agricultural purposes, and no longer requires irrigation. Any and all interested property owners and taxpayers of the District shall have the right to appear and be heard at said hearing and to offer evidence for or against the exclusion of said lands, or any part or parts thereof, and on any question pertinent to the exclusion of such property from the boundaries of the District. This NOTICE given as of this 30th day of January 2015. HIDALGO COUNTY WATER CONTROL AND IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT NO. 19.

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CHAPA

stutters. “I come from a little circle where people can’t even believe I’m Mexican,” Chapa said, so she believed her mom who told Chapa when she turned in Chapa’s application that there was little chance producers would choose her out of the thousands of applicants. But they did. And they gave her a Taylor Swift song to perform, which Chapa questioned because it was a Spanish show. She was in the mariachi at school in La Joya, and she wanted to sing one of those songs. Chapa didn’t make it to the live shows, but is thankful to have made friends from so many different cultures through the show. “It was a way for me to be a stepping stone to Idol,” Chapa said. “To be honest, I was very heartbroken that I only got to a certain point. At that time, nobody had ever told me this girl sings better than you do, too bad.” The year Chapa made La Voz was also the year she started dealing with bullying

MEGA FIESTA

and many more. Others in the Bob Dollie & Friends Big Band include Roger Richardson playing trumpet, Roger Steiger, tenor and soprano sax, and Don Salmond on the drums. This year is the 50th anniversary of the Beatles appearing on the Ed Sullivan Show, and rock & roll will be featured by the Going Back Band. Daryl & Heike Schueller who are from High River, Alberta, Canada, are the bandleaders and are home based at Canyon Lake Resort in Mission. Schueller is an accomplished musician who as a recording artist had a song that was in “The Top 50” on Canadian radio in the 1970s. Howard and Barbara Bedient are from Calgary, Canada who are Winter Texans in Alamo Palms. In 1974 he toured Canada as a member of the “Super Cirkus” and the “1910 Fruit Gum Company” with both bands having radio hits in the 1970s. Barbara plays accordion. Jill Rohrback plays sax, trumpet, flute, and other instruments, plus does vocals for the band. Her husband Rich also plays accordion and lead guitar, and was a member of the “The Appleton Century Rock & Roll Band” for many years. Louie Long and The Drifters provide some of the best country music now available in the Valley. Long is the lead vocal and rhythm guitarist with an extensive background in country music. He has played for a number of years at Silver Dollar City in Branson in the Ozark Mountain Country Music Show. George Epley is a wellknown and popular lead guitarist in the Valley playing since the 1980’s and was the lead player for the Texas Three for over six years. Ron Ford is the lead bass player and a vocalist for the band having played in Branson as a band member for a number of years including the Clarence Hayden Country Music Band. John Blevins is the lead fiddle

DISTRICT MANAGER

gree, preferably in engineering, Cuellar pointed to Sesin. “I think Raul is qualified, but I thought we were going to open up the process,” Garcia said. “But to start somebody and invent the wheel, I think this guy is already qualified,” Cuellar said. Cantu said the county should open the position up, moving quickly, but Cuellar asked what the county would do when Feb. 16 hits and the Integ contract is up. “It’s $190,000 position. We ought to be able to advertise it to be able to attract a very qualified individual, whether male or female,” Garcia said. He suggested appointing an interim executive director or asking Garza to contract with the county month-tomonth; however, when asked if he would work with the county another month, Garza said, “No.” Garza said last year when his contract was extended he only planned to work in the

February 6, 2015

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com at school. A group of five or six girls would shove her, throw her books and tell her she was stuck up because she was on the show. The principal at La Joya High School offered to suspend the girls, but Chapa worried that when they came back to school, the cycle would continue. She transferred from La Joya, a school from which all of her family graduated, to La Grulla High School, which she said has been good to her. And since it’s smaller, Chapa gets more attention from teachers, though she misses her friends and support she received in La Joya. At American Idol, Chapa said she’s competing with people who have been singing 16 years. She, meanwhile, is thankful to Youtube for hosting free posts on vocal exercises or how to get over a sore throat. In sixth grade, Chapa had a teacher through Teach for America who moved to LA. The teacher, Laura Rogers, wrote Chapa a letter beplayer. Linda Stark is the band’s drummer who has a long career playing with a number of bands including country and rock n roll. Geri Clark is the rhythm guitar and female vocalist in the band. She has a wide background of experience with bands in Branson. Coleman Smith is an expert in playing the lead steel guitar who lives in Branson playing for the Tim Hadler Band throughout the summer. Southern Anthem, formerly the Pausewang Family Band, is a fresh and uprising family band whose heart-warming performers sing originals and songs consisting of traditional country, new country, country gospel, and a little bit of pop to audiences throughout Texas and beyond. In 2014 the band received the “Rising Star” award from the Gatesville Country Music Hall of Fame, in Gatesville, TX. This led to an invitation to appear on the Shotgun Red Variety Show, aboard the General Jackson Showboat in Nashville, Tenn., which was aired on the RFD-TV network. The Punches Family Band is among the most popular variety bands in the Valley and has been featured on a television show known as the “The Great American Gospel,” which airs in many countries and on over 200 TV stations across America. Mom, Dad and all three children sing and play instruments including the bass guitar, rhythm guitar, fiddle, mandolin and banjo. Word was received at press time the Veterans Memorial High School Mariachi and Folkloric Groups will be able to perform. There will be more information on their performance later. While the official start time for the Winter Texan event is 1 p.m. Pre-show activities begin at 11:15 a.m. with Grupo Folkorico Rio Grande Valley under the direction of Michelle Gallegos. Children ages 4 to 10 from pg 5A

position another year, and the county had intended to hire an assistant director to eventually replace him. That move was postponed several times. When Garza said he would not extend his contract again, the board asked Sesin if he would take over the district on an interim basis, and as he walked up to the podium to address the board, Pct. 3 Commissioner Joe Flores turned to Garcia and asked, “Can’t we just hire him?” Sesin has a degree in civil engineering from the University of Alabama. “I feel very comfortable with Raul Sesin being appointed district manager,” Garcia said. “I think we hold Mr. Sesin in high regard. He’s done a lot of design work out in the precincts,” Pct. 4 Commissioner Joseph Palacios said. The board agreed to schedule a special meeting next week to appoint Sesin permanently as the district manager.

from pg 1A

fore she left, telling Chapa she knew some day Chapa would be singing in Hollywood. The letter is posted in Chapa’s room, and Flores emphasized that teachers do make a difference. “The only thing I can say, within the next probably five years, if something does not occur with singing, I do want to go into the corporate side of the music industry,” Chapa said. “I just love it so much. If singing doesn’t take off, I’ll know what I’m doing. I still get to be around it.” When Chapa graduates in May, her manager wants her to move to Los Angeles to pursue her dream fulltime, but Flores said that’s a big step and Chapa move out there alone. She’s working out the math to see if the family can afford to move. “We’re trying to make her dream come true, and I don’t know if we’ll be able to, but at least she’ll be able to look back and say, ‘Well my mom and my dad backed me up 100 percent.’” from pg 1A

will be dancing the Rhumba and Bachaca, while children ages 10 to 16 will perform the Flamenco. Adults will perform folkloric dances. The main show will begin at 1 p.m. and will conclude by 4 p.m.

VMHS student film advances to state semi-finals UIL competition

Veterans Memorial High School student film project has advanced through the first and second rounds of the UIL Young Filmmakers competitions and into the state semi-finals. In the first round of competition, their project ranked highest of any high school in the Rio Grande Valley in the Narrative Category.

The VMHS entry is titled “Carmen.” The student team consists of: Alex Hinojosa, Micaela Cantu, Emily Cantu, Karina Gamboa, Andrea Garcia, LeeAnn Cota. Program sponsor is James Hodgson. There are three categories students can participate in: narrative, documentary, and animation. Projects in narrative and documentary

must be three to seven minutes in length. Animations must be 30 seconds to three minutes in length. The student films are judged on originality, cinematic storytelling and technical execution. The top films selected from the semi-finals will advance to the state finals to be held at the Paramount Theater in Austin, on Feb. 18.

progresstimes

Special Edition • February 6, 2015

SECTION B

Texas Citrus Fiesta Celebrating

local royalty

By Lea Victoria Juarez he royal trumpeters called the Mission High School gym to attention as the 78th Texas Citrus Fiesta Royal Coronation commenced. The crowd fell silent. House left, Kings of Citrus past lined up for their introductions. House right, the piano man waited for his cue. Up the middle, a runway led to the thrones for the king, queen and royal and tangerine courts. Every moment of preparation for the guests of honor led to this event – the announcement of the new Texas Citrus Fiesta king, queen and royal court. The King’s Association surprised the public with the

selection of the first Honorary King Citrus, a title awarded to Bill Filut, the Fiesta board president. Outgoing King Earl Neuhaus presented Filut with a flag and sash recognizing him as Honorary King Citrus. In addition, the association announced a scholarship for the outgoing Queen Citrianna in the name of Filut and his late wife Berta, who served as executive director of the Fiesta for nearly 20 years. Berta died in September. Neuhaus performed his last official duty by crowning Jim Hoffman the 78th King Citrus. The Tangerine Court entered next, featuring 6-yearold princesses in their decorative ballgowns.

Princess of Red Grapefruit Blossom Carolina Isabel Gonzalez glided down the catwalk first. She hails from the province of Mission and her parents are Mr. and Mrs. Celso Gonzalez Jr. Princess of Tangerine Blossom Alexis Lorenn Garcia is the daughter of Mr. and

Mrs. Alex Garcia. Her province is also Mission. Princess of Lime Blossom Amanda Nicole Tijerina is a Mission native and the daughter of Art and Amy Tijerina. Princess Lemon Blossom Kylie Noel Munoz is from Harlingen and is the daugh-

Royal court prepares for coronation By Lea Victoria Juarez

erves were high as the 2015 royal court bustled around in the Mission High locker room, preparing for the Texas Citrus Fiesta Royal Coronation. The girls fluffed and pinned and fanned and waited until the moment they had to walk on the runway. Princess of Orange Blossom Alexa Arrambide wore a white, silk dress with pillows under the gown for maximum poof. Her toes were bruised from the heels and her hips were bruised from the pillows tied around her waist, but her smile never wavered. "It's a little nerve-wracking," she said. "It's a pretty long runway." Princess of Grapefruit Blossom Adriana Lamar de los Santos also donned a white, silk and lace dress with two-inch heels that she was mentally preparing to walk in while on the runway.

See PREPARATION 11B

Duchess of Star Ruby Haley Jo Milam prepares to walk the runway for the Royal Coronation. Milam was named Lady in Waiting at the end of the coronation and will begin her reign in 2016. Progress Times photo by Lea Victoria Juarez

PHARMACY & MEDICAL EQUIPMENT

ter of Humberto and Ashleigh Munoz. Princess Anna 65th Mia Isabella Ayala, from the province of Palmhurst, walked the runway to receive her crown from the Citrus King. Her parents are Mr. and Mrs. Andres Ayala. Once the Tangerine Court took their seats on stage, the Royal Court came in one by one while the royal narrators described their gowns and gave a brief bio. From the city of Edinburg, Princess Grapefruit Blossom Adriana Lamar de los Santos was the first woman in white to make her way to the throne. She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Mike de los Santos. Princess of Orange Blossom Alexa Arrambide is a Mission native and daughter of Francisco and Hilde Arrambide The Lady in Waiting Mariah Lourdes Gonzalez also r e p resents Mission. Her parents are Mr. and M r s . A r turo Gonzalez. The trumpeters tooted their horns again to signify the entrance of Queen Citrianna 78th Rachel Christine Tunberg. The royal train bearers sidled up beside her, each taking a piece of the lengthy citrus-decorated cloak. Although the queen has known of her title for a year, she was officially crowned at the

ABOVE: Queen Citrianna 78th Rachel Christine Tunberg approaches the dais followed by her trainbearers Jorge Alberto Gonzalez Jr., Martin Mikel Ochoa, Dylan Jacob Rodriguez and Maximus Salinas. CUTOUT: Zachary Ryan Gerlach serves as the Crown Bearer.

2015 coronation and to begin her reign. The 78th queen is the daughter of John and Dina Tunberg. Tunberg’s train bearers were Jorge Alberto Gonzalez Jr., Maximus Salinas, Martin Mikel Ochoa and Dylan Jacob Rodriguez. The ceremony crown bearer was Zachary Ryan Gerlach. Following the crowning of Queen Citrianna, one-byone the duchesses made their way across the catwalk with a young page preceding them holding a banner. The crest on each banner is a representation of the community from which the duchess hails. Duchess of City of Mission-Sister Cities Isabella Anis Farias is a Mission native and the daughter of M r . a n d Mrs. Joe Farias. Her page was Fernando Villarreal. Duchess of Delta Waters Cory Richards is from Edinburg. She is the daughter of Travis and Shelly Richards. Her page was Riley

See CORONATION 11B

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Mayor aims to build new bridge with Mexico By Julie Silva

ignitaries from across Mexico as well as leaders within the Rio Grande Valley joined together Saturday morning as part of the City of Mission Mayor’s International Brunch, kicking off the last day of the Texas Citrus Fiesta. Deputy City Manager Aida Lerma said the annual brunch serves as “tribute to the city’s rich heritage and the unique way in which citrus plays in our prosperity.” Over the years, it’s incorporated Mission’s Sister City program to become an international event. This year there were representatives of 13 Mexican municipalities and seven states in at-

tendance at Mission Community Center. Before keynote speaker Enrique Martinez y Martinez, Secretary of Agriculture for Mexico and former governor of Coahuila, spoke, Mayor Norberto “Beto” Salinas decried the wait times at the border. Mission needs to make it easier for Mexican products to cross into the United States, Salinas said, “And if we need to build another bridge to do it, then let’s do it.” “I’m telling you in front of all of our Sister City friends because I think it’s very important for you to know that we’re working to get these bridges working again and get more people to come to the United States,” Salinas said. “I don’t think i t ’ s fair for people to be on the Anzalduas Bridge for three hours, four hours, waiting to cross their prod-

RIGHT: Mission Mayor Norberto “Beto” Salinas addresses the crowd at the Mayor’s International Brunch on Saturday during the Texas Citrus Fiesta. Representatives of 13 cities in seven Mexican states attended the event. ABOVE: A representative of Mexico bears the Mexican flag during a presentation.

ucts,” the mayor added, citing accounts of rotting tomatoes and carrots after trucks have been left to wait for two days. The city already has approached the Hidalgo Count y Re-

gional Mobility Authority to partner with Mission in construction of a rail bridge using a permit Mission obtained years ago. The permit expires in seven years. In the city’s plan, Mission would build the bridge, and the county RMA would be in charge of building rail line from the Valley to Alice. “Jim doesn’t know anything about this bridge, but I’m trying to see if we can combine efforts,” Salinas said, referring to McAllen Mayor Jim Darling, who was in the audience at the brunch. Mission worked with McAllen, Hidalgo and Granjeno to construct the Anzalduas Bridge. Also Saturday, Salinas thanked McAllen for helping draw Mexican traffic to Mission, citing La Plaza Mall, “which we support and promote and we lie to them and tell them we had something to do with it.”

PARADE OF ORANGES

toughest competition, the Valley Product division. Floats in this division must be completely covered in citrus, and few are brave enough to attempt the challenge. In the past six years, the church has only missed first place once, and they were told they didn’t have enough citrus on the truck pulling the trailer, said Bernie Declaire, one of the float’s organizers. Still, newcomer to the Valley Product division, Mission Collegiate High School Principal Orlando Farias declared his goal was to beat Father Roy Snipes next year. Mission Collegiate came in second this year, and Split Rail RV Park, another perennial competitor, took third. One of Our Lady of Guadalupe’s toughest weapons is master carpenter David Moreno, who has been shutting down his business for two weeks annually for more

than 15 years to lead the church to victory. Declaire, a Winter Texan from Canada, begins talks with Moreno and Father Roy before he even reaches the Valley each year. This year, Declaire said, the Fiesta’s theme, “Old Time Rock & Roll” proved difficult to adapt to the church. However, Father Roy came through, stating “The church was built on the rock, and then little-by-little we’re rolling around with the times and singing a song.” That turned into the words emblazoned on the sides of the float, “Built on the Rock-Rolling Along-Singing a Song.” It featured a moving clock, six jukeboxes with lights, five dogs, four guitars, and the pièce de résistance, La Lomita, an important part of Mission’s history. Though a core group of four to seven people work on the float in the three weeks coming up to the parade, the

from pg 1A

Friday before is all hands on deck with volunteer students slicing fruit and affixing it to the float. Moreno said every year, they use the either church, Lady Guadalupe or La Lomita, but the theme is always different. His favorite float was a few years ago when he was challenged to create a round locomotive that emitted smoke. Every year, the church is depending on them to come through, and both Moreno and Declaire agreed that hearing they got first once again is a pressure off their backs. It’s a lot of work, but they look forward to the challenge and seeing everything come together in the end. “We’re blessed,” Moreno said. “That’s all I can say. We’re blessed and we’re happy that the good Lord gave us a lot of strength and knowledge to do what we did.”

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PARADE OF ORANGES

1st Place Competitive Float - Valley Products Our Lady of Guadalupe Church

2nd Place Competitive Float - Valley Products Mission Collegiate High School

1st Place Competitive Float - Winter Texan II Mission Bell & Trade Winds

1st Place Competitive Float - Winter Texan I Twin Lakes RV Park

1st Place Competitive Float - Commercial McAllen Holiday Float

1st Place Competitive Float - Church Our Lady of the Holy Rosary

1st Place Competitive Float - General City of Palmhurst

3rd Place Competitive Float - Valley Products Split Trail RV Park

1st Place Competitive Float - Element. School Leal Elementary

2nd Place Competitive Float - Element. School Castro Elementary Student Council

2nd Place Competitive Float -Commercial HEB Grocery

2nd Place Competitive Float - General Mission Regional Medical Center

2nd Place Competitive Float - Winter Texan II Greengate Grove Park

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King Citrus

the 78th reign

By Lea Victoria Juarez

ne-by-one the kings of Citrus past bowed in front of the new King Citrus – Jim Hoffman. He’s a third generation citrus grower in the Rio Grande Valley and is involved in six citrus-related organizations, including the Texas Citrus Producers Board and Texas A&M Citrus Center Advisory Board. At the ceremony, Hoffman donned the traditional deep green velvet robe, adorned with citrus designs. He held his gold embellished scepter in his hands as he looked out to the crowd. Each year, King Citrus is kept a secret until the night of the Royal Coronation

ABOVE: Jim Hoffman receives is crown as the 78th King Citrus. Hoffman is a third-generation citrus grower of the Rio Grande Valley and was elected by the King’s Association to take the title. RIGHT: Fiesta President Bill Filut is awarded the first Honorary King Citrus Award. Filut has served as president for 22 years.

A Special Thank You to... ] [ ] Daddy, Mommy, and Gabriel for your constant love and support. Grandma and Grandpa Lopez for always watching over me Grandpa Alex and Alicia for your hugs. To my personal Angel Grandma Dora, I love you. Auntie Angela and Uncle Eddie for always making me smile. Auntie Cyndi and Uncle Renato, I know you’re always with me.

Love, Mia ]

during the Texas Citrus Fiesta when he takes the stage. “I was surprised that I was nominated or chosen for that position,” Hoffman said with a light chuckle. “I’m very please to have been selected. I view it as very high honor.” Although he grew up in the Valley, Hoffman’s roots come from North Dakota. In 1919, his grandfather traveled from the Midwest to the Valley with John H. Shary and purchased a tract of land on 5 Mile Line and Glasscock. That was where the citrus legacy began. Hoffman’s father helped his grandfather nurture the grove as a teenager, which led him to start his own grove in Edinburg when the family moved in 1945. The now King Citrus graduated from Edinburg High School and studied at Pan American College before transferring to Texas A&M College Station where he received his degree in agronomy. The 75-year-old Hoffman began his career in the product industry at Tide

Agricultural Chemicals in El Campo, Texas, following his time in the Army Reserves. Hoffman transferred to Tide headquarters in Edinburg after three and half years, where he managed the distribution of fertilizer. There he made fertilizer recommendations for the major crop grown in the Rio Grande Valley, including citrus. When Tide was sold to Wilbur-Ellis in 1989, Hoffman continued his work. He traveled through Mexico, setting up fertilizer facilities and supplying fertilizer products. After 34 years in the agricultural chemical industry, the Sharyland native went into early retirement. He continued to tend to the citrus grove he established north of Edinburg next to his father’s farm. “The farm area is a nice, sandy soil very conducive for citrus,” Hoffman said. “Over a longer period I could see a better return of citrus over (other crops) and

grain sorghum. That’s why I chose to devote my endeavors toward citrus.” But even after retirement, he continued to make a name for himself in the citrus industry. He served on the board of Texas Citrus Mutual and as its president from 2001-2003. Now, the president of the Edinburg Citrus Association wears the crown of the Texas Citrus Fiesta King Citrus. His crown was specially made of tapestry in two shades of brown with clear Swarovski crystals scattered throughout. The bottom of the crown was wrapped with a wide band embellished with rhinestones and edged with two-toned gold braided bands. Strips of brown tapestry with rhinestones flow from the band to the top of the crown, which is topped with black finial and gold accents. Every princess and duchess curtsied before him on coronation day as he began his reign for 2015.

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Incoming royalty

By Lea Victoria Juarez ew royalty was announced at the Texas Citrus Fiesta Royal Coronation on Jan. 29 as Duchess of Green Pastures Hailie Nicole Ciomperlik took home the queen’s crown at the end of the night. Her green dress shimmered under the camera flashes as she exited the stage to greet her family. “They were announcing the names and I was like ‘Oh, that’s it. It’s over. I lost. Time to get some food,” Ciomperlik said. “I feel super excited. I didn’t expect this.” She is a senior at PharrSan Juan-Alamo Early College High School and is the standing salutatorian of her graduating class. Ciomperlik is the PSJA FFA president, 4-H State livestock ambassador and first vice president of the Hidalgo county Council. She is also the 2015 Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show Cover Girl. The title of Princess of Or-

ange Blossom went to Duchess of Rio Red Grapefruit MyKenzie Larayne Martinez. Martinez is a senior at Veterans Memorial High School. She studies at a college level with her dual enrollment classes and will be graduating from high school as a sophomore in college. Martinez is a three-year cheerleader with two years on the varsity squad as co-head. The 2016 princess is vice president of Students Against Drugs and Alcohol. She enjoys tumbling and spending time with her family. Duchess of Purple Onion Victoria Jerine Burns is the new Princess of Grapefruit Blossom. She is a junior at Lyford High School and is ranked second. The new princess serves as class president and junior board member of the Willacy County Welfare Board. Burns is a varsity cheerleader and member of the Senior “A” Dance Company in Palm Valley Dance. The title of Lady in Wait-

ing was granted to Duchess of Star Ruby Haley Jo Milam. Milam is a junior at Veterans Memorial High School and is a three-year letterman in track. She was selected as Miss South Texas Junior Teen. The 2016 Lady in Waiting enjoys working with Special Education students and lecturing at St. Paul’s Catholic Church. Duchess of Bluebonnet Robyn Perez took home the title of First Alternate and Miss Photogenic. She is ranked in the top five percent of her Weslaco High senior class. Perez is a member of the National Honor Society and was selected to attend Girls State and the Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Conference. The First Alternate is a district FFA and 4-H officer and has been accepted to attend Texas A&M University. The Second Alternate is Duchess of Butterfly Samantha Lauren Peña. She is a senior class president at

Sharyland High School and a member of the National Honor Society. Peña is in the top three percent of her class. She enjoys reading and singing. Miss Congeniality was awarded to Duchess of Bougainvillea Alexandra Victoria Canchola. She is a junior at McAllen High School and serves as a Student Ambassador. Canchola is captain of the McHi cross country and track team and has a passion for competitive running. Miss Congeniality has enjoyed performing with Missy’s Modeling Studio for the past 13 years. King Citrus Jim Hoffman said the ladies and the amount of accolades they have at their age impressed him. “Most of them were in high school or freshman in college, but already in their lives they’ve accomplished a lot. They participate in a lot of activities,” King Citrus Jim Hoffman said. “I just find it very interesting and I admire them for that.”

ABOVE: Duchess of Butterfly Samantha Lauren Pena, was named second alternate; Duchess of Rio Red Grapefruit MyKenzie Larayne Martinez, named Princess of Orange Blossom; Duchess of Star Ruby Hayley Jo Milam, named Lady in Waiting; Duchess of Green Pastures Hailie Nicole Ciomperlik, named 79th Queen Citrianna; Duchess of Purple Onion Victoria Jerine Burns, named Princess of Grapefruit Blossom; Duchess of Bluebonnet Robyn Perez, named First alternate and Miss Photogenic. BELOW: Pictured left to right: 78th King Citrus Jim Hoffman, 78th Queen Citrianna Rachel Christine Tunberg, Duchess of Green Pastures Hailie Nicole Ciomperlik, named 79th Queen Citrianna.

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Product Costume Show brings out ’50s

By Kathy Olivarez

People’s Choice 1st Place Elementary Division Model: Tyra Vivian, Designer: Dalia Vivian Title: Car Hop

1st Place Teen Division Model: Jasmine Leal Designer: Maribel Leal Title: Dancer

1st Place Adult Division Model: Shane Gagnon Designer: Shane Gagnon Title: Elvis-Army Years

2nd Place Elementary Division Model: Leyana Gonzalez Designer: Sylvia Gonzalez Title: Dancing Girl

he annual Texas Citrus Fiesta Product Costume Show took place on Jan. 17 at the Mission Community Center with a variety of costumes based on the days of early Rock & Roll. Costumes are made from products grown in the Rio Grande Valley and must contains at least ten percent citrus product. It takes many hours to design these costumes, gather and prepare the product used, and then put them together. In the primary division, first place went to Tyra Vivian, who was dressed as a carhop. Her costume was composed of a short-sleeved bodice and an elaborate full skirt. The bodice of the costume was covered in onionskin. Yellow onionskin was used at the neckline and purple onionskin was used at the waistline. Flowers made of papaya and cantaloupe seeds accented the bodice. Some seeds had a dusting of Esperanza flower and papaya leaves. The letter “T” on the bodice was made with purple onion. The highlight of the costume was the elaborately decorated skirt, which was covered in pulverized line leaves. Intricate designs include a checkered dance floor with dancers, a jukebox, musical notes, miniature records, a bar with stools and food booths. There was even a 1957 Chevy with headlights made from sunflower petals. Materials used on the skirt included dehydrated lime slices, burnt orange and grapefruit peel, mesquite corn silk, papaya leaves, walnut shells, burgundy bougainvillea, white, purple and yellow onionskins. The skirt featured a scalloped lace hemline covered in white onionskin and featured a band of purple onionskin. Vivian carried a tray with a milk shake and an ice cream sundae along with a note pad and pencil. The little carhop wore roller skates to deliver her order. White, purple and yellow onionskin, walnut shells, cantaloupe seeds, red hibiscus and burgundy bougainvillea, mesquite sawdust, Esperanza flowers and papaya leaves were used to make the designs. Her costume also included a ring, necklace and bracelet fashioned from Esperanza flower petals, onionskin and cantaloupe seeds. She even wore nail polish created from purple onionskin. This costume was voted People’s Choice by those who attended the show. The designer was Dalia Vivian. Second place in the primary division went to Leyana Gonzalez, dressed as a dancing girl. The designer was Sylvia Gonzalez. Leyana wore a dress covered in dried and pulverized lemon leaves. The neckline had a circle of orange peel time for accent. A flower covered in pink bougainvillea accepted the bodice. An “L” on the back of her dress was covered in orange and grapefruit peel. Two cats perched on the

2nd Place Teen Division Model: Sara Gonzalez Designer: Sara Gonzalez Title: Pink Ladies

Hat Contest Winners Pictured from left to right are Linsey Garza, first place (Swinger Hat); Bella Alaniz, second place (Pill Box Hat) and Adam Ortiz, third place (Mickey Mouse Drum Major).

bottom of the skirt. They were covered with burnt citrus peel. Pumpkin seeds were used for their eyes. There was also a pumpkin seed vine cascading down the skirt. The dress featured a belt covered with citrus peel. Leyana had a headband of pink bougainvillea to keep her hair in place. To make sure no hair got out of place, she carried a can of hairspray decorated with crushed grapefruit and orange peel with lettering done in burnt citrus peel. White onionskin was used on the woman’s silhouette. Her boots were covered in mesquite sawdust, dehydrated oranges slices and dried lemon leaves. First place in the teen division went to Jasmine Leal who was an American Bandstand Dancer ready to dance around the clock. She wore a two-piece outfit with a shortsleeved blouse covered in processed citrus peel. Her initial, “J,” was covered in ground pomegranate. She wore a full skirt covered with dried orange and tangerine peel. Flowers at the waistline were fashioned from dehydrated orange slices and pumpkin seeds. A dog’s leash covered in pecan shell, trailed form the flowers to a poodle covered in yellow rose petals and outlined in melon seeds. Its feet and face were covered in yellow onion peel. Ground pecan shells were used to make the eyes and nose. The tail was fashioned from pumpkin seeds. The musical notes found of the skirt were covered with pecan shell. Jasmine wore a scarf around her neck created from pecan shell. It had a flower made from dehydrated orange peel and pumpkin seeds. Her shoes were made from orange peel, pumpkin seeds, melon seeds and acorns. Records made from orange slices covered with pecan shell powder decorated the shoes. Her socks were fashioned from yellow onionskin with accent of pumpkin seed flowers and ground pomegranate. Her costume was designed by Maribel Leal. Sara Gonzalez was sec-

ond place with a costume depicting Rizzo of the Pink Ladies. Her straight dress was covered with burnt grapefruit peel. It featured polka dots of white onionskin. The waistline of the dress was created using dried lemon leaves. She word a three-quarter length sleeve jacket covered in pink bougainvillea with an initial “P” on the front of the jacket created by using burnt grapefruit peels and accented with orange seeds. Another “P” on the back was fashioned from burnt grapefruit peels. Sara designed her own costume. First place in the adult division went to Shane Gagnon, wearing a military uniform depicting Elvis during his army years. His military jacket was covered with processed citrus leaves. The pockets on the jacket were outlined in burnt citrus and glue. The buttons were stamped with orange peel. “U.S.” was adorned on the buttons using burnt citrus. His white dress shirt was fashioned from onionskin. His black tie has been covered with burnt citrus. The pants of the uniform, his military hat and dress shoes were covered with burnt citrus. The insignia on his hat was fashioned form dehydrated lemon slices. Shane designed and made his own costume. Second place in the adult division went to Maxine Rodriguez as Annette Funicello of the Mickey Mouse Club. The beige color of her short sleeve blouse was achieved by using the powder of dehydrated orange peel. Annette’s name on the front of the blouse was created by using burnt tangerine peel. She wore a short black skirt covered with burnt citrus peel. Mickey Mouse shapes created from dehydrated citrus peel were placed on the skirt. The skirt had a band at the hemline that had a Mickey Mouse on the front and in the back created from dehydrated orange peel. Maxine wore the traditional Mickey Mouse Club hat with a pink bow fashioned of bougainvillea

2nd Place Adult Division Model: Maxine Rodriguez Designer: Joann Olvera Title: Annette Funicello

Mickey’s face was created from burnt citrus peel with onionskin and bougainvillea flowers. She wore beige socks made from orange peel and Mary Jane style shoes covered in burnt orange product. Her costume was created by Joann Olvera. Third place went to Rosalinda Olivarez who came dressed as a jukebox like those found in the rock & roll era. Products used on the jukebox included red onionskin for purple colors, a mixture of burnt citrus and orange pith for gray, green from dehydrated citrus leaves and burnt citrus peel for the black colors. The back of the jukebox was covered with a mixture of citrus leaves and sawdust. The American Bandstand logo was created from white onionskin, tangerine and orange peel tiles. Rosalinda created her own jukebox. In the hat division, first place went to Linsey Garza with a swing hat, like those popular in the ’50s and ’60s. The hat was covered in powdered grapefruit leaves. A pink ribbon of pink rose petals, yellow onionskin, and orange peel circled the hat. Dehydrated lime slices were placed on the ribbon. Cantaloupe seed flowers with bell pepper seed centers were scattered around the brim. Linsey created her own hat. Second place went to Bella Alaniz wearing a pillbox hat typical of the era. The hat was covered in ground citrus peel. A polka dot bow accenting the side of the hat was covered in pink and purple bougainvillea and purple onionskin. The polka dots were fashioned from black onion seed. A wheat staff covered in dehydrated mountain laurel flower completed the look. This hat was also created by Linsey Garza. Third place went to Adam Ortiz, wearing a Mickey Mouse Drum Major hat covered in dehydrated tangerine peel. Pink bougainvillea was used to make the plume on the front of the hat. The Mickey Mouse ears were covered with burnt citrus peel. The designer was Joann Olvera.

3rd Place Adult Division Model: Rosalinda Olivarez Designer: Rosalinda Olivarez Title: American Bandstand Jukebox

February 6, 2015

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Citrus Youth Show is all about the kids Winners of TCF Shoebox floats announced

By Luciano Guerra udging by the number of young people that participated in the 78th annual Texas Citrus Fiesta’s Citrus Youth Show last week, the future of the Valley’s citrus industry is in good hands. Elementary, middle school and high school boys and girls competed in one of three citrus judging contests and/or in the citrus show. Veterans Memorial High School Vocational Agriculture teacher Ruben Alaniz, who was in charge of both the citrus judging contest and the youth citrus show, explained how the judging contest works. “The citrus judging contest is primarily for students here in the Rio Grande Valley that are in either 4-H or FFA chapters but it is actually open to all students and not just those that are members of an organization,” Alaniz said. “There are two parts to the contest; the first is identification where the students have to identify 30 varieties of fruit and the second is judging three classes of fruit, two of grapefruits and one of oranges, and placing them from best to worst based on their quality. 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.” There are three divisions of the citrus judging contest – senior, junior and sub-junior. In the senior division, the Veterans Memorial High

Kevin Rivera Grand Champion

School team placed first with 906 points, the Mission High School team placed second with 827 points and the Palmview High School team placed third with 764 points. Veterans Memorial’s Zenaida Alaniz had the highest individual score among all seniors to earn the senior high point award. In the junior division, Mission placed first with 885 points, Veterans Memorial placed second with 670 points and Palmview placed third with 552 points. Mission’s Rebekah Nolan had the highest individual score to earn the junior high point award. In the sub-junior division Veterans Memorial placed first with Ana Garcia earning the sub-junior high point award. As for how the youth citrus show works Alaniz said, “The fruit in the exhibits here comes from different growers such as Lone Star Growers, Rio Farms and Thompson Farms. These are local growers that give the kids the opportunity of going

Hunter Wernecke Sweepstakes Award Reserve Grand Champion

Zenaida Alaniz Senior High Point Award

into their groves and select fruit for their entries. Each entry is then judged against other entries within its variety and placed according to the quality.” The grand champion winning entry in this year’s citrus youth show was exhibited by 12-year-old Kevin Rivera who attends Jessie Jensen Elementary in Sharyland. “My winning entry was a Rio Red grapefruit,” Rivera

he shoebox float contest is sponsored each year to give school children a chance to participate in the Texas Citrus Fiesta and learn about citrus and other Valley agricultural products, which are used to decorate these miniature floats. While the rules are not as stringent, these elementary students learn how to use some of the same materials used to make the clothes for the Fiesta’s Product Costume Show. Gabriel Rivera from Cavazos Elementary in La Joya Independent School District, won first place in the Fourth Grade Division and $100 for himself and another $100 for his teacher, Maribel Alanis. In the Fifth Grade Division, Samantha Ramirez, also of Cavazos Elementary, created the first-place float, also winning $100 and another $100 for her teacher. Sienna Garza, a fifthgrade student at Bryan Elementary in Mission Consolidated Independent School District took second prize for $75 cash plus a ribbon. There was a tie for third place at fifth grade between Jesse Martinez and Samuel Ramirez, both of Cavazos Elementary in La Joya. Third place winners received a $50 cash prize. The floats were judged on whether they used citrus and agricultural products to cover the float, creativity

1st Place Gabriel Rivera 4th Grade - Cavazos Elementary, La Joya

1st Place Samantha Ramirez 5th Grade - Cavazos Elementary, La Joya

and adherence to this year’s Texas Citrus Fiesta theme: “Old Time Rock & Roll.” A cardboard shoebox is used to create these floats. All visible parts of the box must be covered with product or decoration and 50 percent must be covered in agricultural products grown in the Rio Grande Valley. The products can be dried, dehydrated, or even carved. Citrus must be used somewhere on the float, and glitter can be used to brighten the product. Plastic figures, materials and ribbons can also be used to complete the float. Fourth- and fifth-grade students of the local school districts, including Mission, La Joya and Sharyland ISD, are invited to participate in the annual Shoebox Float Competition. The winners received their prizes at the annual

Texas Citrus Fiesta Product Costume Style Show held Saturday, Jan. 17, at the Mission Community Center. Jim Brunson, Publisher of the Progress Times, who sponsors the contest, presented the checks to the winners. “The Shoebox Float Competition provides our young people an opportunity to become involved in the Texas Citrus Fiesta at an early age. As they do, both they and their family members become a part of the Fiesta tradition that is passed from generation to generation. As sponsor of the Shoebox Float Competition, I hope that through this event more people will become involved in other aspects of the Fiesta as well. Some of our past Shoebox Float participants have gone on to make costumes

2nd Place Sienna Garza 5th Grade - Bryan Elementary, Mission

3rd Place Samuel Ramirez 5th Grade - Cavazos Elementary, La Joya

3rd Place Jesse Martinez 5th Grade - Cavazos Elementary, La Joya

See SHOEBOX FLOATS 10B

See YOUTH SHOW 10B

Veterans Memorial High School Team: First Place, Senior Division Ruben Alaniz (advisor), Marco Diaz, Roy Guerrero, Zenaida Alaniz, David Bazan

Thank You Fiesta Supporters and Workers For Another Successful Texas Citrus Fiesta The Texas Citrus Fiesta board of directors extends a heartfelt “Thank You” to the sponsors, supporters, volunteers and workers who made this year’s Citrus Fiesta such a great success. Our sponsors were wonderful this year, making each fiesta event possible from the parade to the coronation and Los Vaqueros Cook-Off, and of course, the great entertainment at the Fun Fair. The City of Mission and the Mission Consolidated Independent School District have been faithful supporters of the Fiesta year after year, and every year have outdone themselves providing facilities and extensive resources including assistance by the City Parks and Recreation Department, Streets, Police, Fire Department & Health Department, The Mission Historical Museum and many other city and school staff members’ assistance in this monumental effort. A special thanks goes to neighboring Police Departments, DPS, Sheriffs Dept. & Border Patrol. Of course, there would be no Citrus Fiesta without our many volunteers, Fiesta committee members and workers, as well as individuals who contributed much time and effort in setting-up for our events, building floats and working on the various aspects of the Fiesta. To each and everyone who participated in this year’s Fiesta, we extend our sincere thanks. Your devotion and loyalty are what make the Texas Citrus Fiesta the best fiesta in Texas!

A Special Thank You To The Following For Your Contributions & Assistance That Helped Make This Year’s Texas Citrus Fiesta a Success: Mayor Beto Salinas, Genco Services, Inc.

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Royal recognition at reception

By Lea Victoria Juarez lthough the girls vying for the title of Queen Citrianna of the Texas Citrus Fiesta understand that their interview is the most important aspect of the process, many have said the dresses are their favorite part. The first time anyone sees their dresses is the night of the Royal Reception, but the anticipation has been building for months in advance. “They’re always so beautiful, the dresses,” Lady in Waiting Mariah Lourdes Gonzalez said. “And it’s fun

to see who is the duchess that you were last year.” The girls sat with their families for the dinner portion, with their full skirt puffed up in their chairs and bibs donned as a precaution. The Royal Court and duchesses are then announced to the guests alongside kings of the past. The Royal Court wears white, but the duchesses provide the pops of color. “The royal reception is the first time that we present the girls in their evening dresses,” Fiesta Director Bibi Pena said. “We don’t have judging, that’s just a fun night for them – the dinner, the dance.” The duchesses are organized by their height and dress color, and the color must be a direct representation of the product they’re representing. The reception gives the fiesta members a chance to look at the gowns and determine if they are up to standards. Texas Citrus Fiesta member Minnie Rodgers said that some girls have even had to change their dresses in past years if it wasn’t long enough or the proper color. Although the gowns only

count for 40 percent of the total score, they’re a staple in Fiesta history and can involve elaborate details in the design. Duchess of Whitewing Giselle Olivarez had feathered wings that extended from the side seams or her shimmering gray dress to her gloves. Duchess of Butterfly Samantha Lauren Pena also

had side-seam wings attached to her gown. A number of girls had fruit designs woven throughout the garment or attached on a bow. But throughout the night and the remainder of the Fiesta, they are not allowed to give their name, only their product and province. “We do this to keep it fair because we hope that the judges don’t know any of the girls,” Pena said. “Sometimes the judges are there at the reception, but the judges are not allowed to tell anyone that they’re judges.” The reception is part of the girl’s bonding experience, Pena said. They mingle and dance and swap stories of their product, which is also a high point of the friendly competition. “Right now mainly we are here to show off our dresses but this is the first time we get to know everybody,” Duchess of Mandarin Orange Reyna Lara said. “We represent our citrus, our fruits, flowers, and you get people knowing who you are. It’s a lot of fun.” Once the lights dimmed and the introductions were over, the girls made their way to the dance floor, forming a circle and taking turns dancing in the middle. “The music is great and I feel like a princess,” Lara said.“ It’s something I’ve never done before and it’s a really good experience to go through. It’s just a way of representing my city that I was born and raised in.”

Texas Citrus Fiesta announces Winter Texan winners

he Texas Citrus Fiesta Parade of Oranges would notbe the same without the participation of the many Winter Texans who get involved in float building and many other aspects of the Fiesta. In fact, Split Rail RV Park in Mission is a major contender each year in one of the most difficult float categories, the Valley Product float division, though this year makers of the float were disappointed to come in third place. Newcomer Mission Collegiate High School took second and talented competitor Our Lady of Guadalupe Church captured the prized first-place trophy for the second year in a row. Two years ago, Split Rail beat out Our Lady of Guadalupe, taking first place in the Valley Products Division. Last year, Split Rail won second place.

in the Product Costume Show and their family members take a much deeper interest in the traditions of the Citrus Fiesta. This is exactly what is needed to keep the tradition going for this great, hometown celebration of our heritage.”

The Valley Products Division is the most prestigious competition, since these floats are required to be covered with citrus and other agricultural products grown in the Rio Grande Valley. For a fresh-looking presentation on parade day, much of the work of slicing and affixing the citrus to the float must be done the night before the parade. Bob Baker, who organized the Split Rail team, said about a dozen members of the community started putting the float together about three weeks before the parade, though they meet before they head north for the summer to start brainstorming ideas. Baker said creating the float has given members of the RV park a chance to better get to know one another, but fewer people participated this year than in previous years. Everybody comes from different occupations, bringing different skills to the project each year, Baker said. He, himself, was a farmer, and he likes working with the produce. The Split Rail trailer was transformed into a ’50s car with grapefruit slices forming the body of the car, cauliflower headlights, and or-

anges painted silver for the chrome accent. Slices of cactus separated the car doors. On top of the trailer was the “Split Rail Diner,” and the jukebox on the back of the float featured a silhouette with a couple dancing and guitars that Baker created starting with cardboard. An 86-year-old resident spent a day forming the strings of the guitars. Still, despite all their hard work, Baker said, “The church won again. You can’t beat it.” There were many excellent floats in the parade on Saturday, Jan. 31 rockin’ down Conway Avenue to the theme of “Old Time Rock & Roll.” In the Golf Cart Division, first place went to Oleander Acres RV & Mobile Park. In the Winter Texan I float category, which is composed of parks with less that 250 spaces, Twin Lakes RV Park won first place. In the Winter Texan II category, is composed of Winter Texan Parks with over 250 spaces, Mission Bell-Trade Winds RV Resort captured first place, while second place went to Green Gate Grove Park, and third place was awarded to Bentsen Palm RV Park.

said. “I picked it from a grove owned by Lone Star Growers. This is the second time that I’ve won grand champion. I also had a Valencia orange entry this year but it didn’t win anything.” The reserve grand champion winning entry was exhibited by 9-year-old Hunter Wernecke who is a member of the Los Fresnos FFA. Hunter also won the sweepstakes award, which is named

after his great-great grandfather Eron Wernecke of the Wernecke Citrus Farms. When asked what he won Hunter said, “I won a belt buckle, a trophy and that’s all. The trophy was for winning reserve grand champion and the buckle was for winning the sweepstakes. This is my second or third time. Two years ago I won grand champion.” Coming from a long line

of citrus growers and having already won a grand championship, a reserve grand championship and a sweepstakes all before the age of 10 you’d think that Hunter would be looking forward to going into the family business. However when asked if he is planning on having a career in the citrus industry when he grows up he said, “Not really. I want to be a boat maker.”

SHOEBOX FLOATS from pg 9B

YOUTH SHOW

from pg 9B

February 6, 2015

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PREPARATION from pg 1B

The Lady in Waiting Mariah Lourdes Gonzalez stood composed in her white, satin, silk dress, but was slightly uneasy about her duties with Queen Citrianna. "Because I'm the lady in waiting, I'm in charge of the queen's train," she said. "So I have to help her adjust and I'm just a little nervous about it." Even though the 78th Fiesta was their second year on the stage, it was their first time as part of the royal court. Each of them had their own tricks for keeping the apprehension at bay. De los Santos likes to sing to herself, while Gonzalez tries not to make eye contact with any one person. "I just try not to think about it. I pretend, like 'I'm just walking at home. I'm not on stage. No one's looking at me,'" Arrambide said. The events leading up to coronation day were stressful, they admitted. From studying to dress fittings, the girls worked to make sure their night ran seamlessly. But throughout it all, they bonded. They took the time

to get to know each other, asking questions about school, family and discussing the interview process that decided who would be the 2016 members of the Texas Citrus Fiesta royal court. The princesses and lady in waiting have a second chance at vying for the queen's crown, but they still compete against the duchesses. Although the ladies in white went through the experience the previous year as a duchess, it doesn't guarantee them any advantage. The time in front of the judges only lasts about 10 minutes, but the girls study for hours. And because physical appearance is only worth 40 percent of their score, 60 percent relies on how well

they present themselves and know their product. "It's totally different because the judges expect more of you because you're in the court," de los Santos said. "They expect you to know everything. I feel like I'm cramming for finals." Chatter filled the royal court waiting area, also occupied by moms and relatives. Three separate times, they had to be silenced by Fiesta organizers, but the lights finally went down and the girls prepared for their entrance. They glided on the catwalk and sat poised on the stage as each duchess bowed to them, the king and the queen. Regardless of the outcome, all three girls said they

still enjoyed their Texas Citrus Fiesta experience. "It's an amazing experience just going through all of this, the interview, meeting new people. I would love to do it again," the lady in waiting said. At the end of the night, the Duchess of Green Pastures Hailie Nicole Ciomperlik was announced as the 2016 Queen Citrianna. The other winners of the night were: • Princess of Orange Blossom - Duchess of Rio Red MyKenzie Larayne Martinez • Princess of Grapefruit Blossom - Duchess of Purple Onion Victoria Jerine Burns • Lady in Waiting Duchess of Star Ruby Haley Jo Milam

• First alternate and Miss Photogenic Duchess of Bluebonnet Robyn Perez • Second alternate - Duchess of Butterfly Samantha Lauren Pena • Miss Congeniality - Duchess of Bougainvillea Alexandra Victoria Canchola Although none of the royal court members took home the queen crown, they still received their own for their reign as princesses and lady in waiting for 2015. The next step is traveling to other fes-

tivals where they will represent the Rio Grande Valley. "I'm ecstatic because I've been looking forward to all the parades I'm going to be at - San Antonio, Laredo, Corpus," the grapefruit blossom princess said. "It's going to be a fun year."

ents are Jose and Maribel Hernandez. Adrian Barroso was her page. Strong. Duchess of Yellow Rose Duchess of Oleander Vic- Sasha Victoria Guerra is a Rio toria Lee Torres of Mission is Grande City native. Her parthe daughter of Mr. and Mrs. ents are Mr. and Mrs. Oscar Victor Torres. Alejandro Elias Guerra. Her page was Victor Mata was her page. Domingo Garcia. Duchess of Lantana EmeDuchess of Retama Vally Hernandez hails from the erie Trevino of La Joya is the province of Alton. Her pardaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Oziel Treviño. Her page was Jesus Ezekiel Ochoa. Duchess of Whitewing Giselle Olivarez is of the province of Penitas. She is the daughter of the late Jose Luis and Thelma Olivarez. Bryan King Citrus, Jim Hoffman crowns Princess Carranza was Anna Mia Isabella Ayala. her page. Duchess of Progress Times photo by Luciano Guerra

Bougainvillea Alexandra Victoria Canchola is a McAllen native. Her parents are Richard Silva and Nancy Chapa. Jonathan Aaron Gonzalez was her page. Duchess of Butterfly Samantha Lauren Peña of Mission is the daughter of Dr. Raul and Suzanna Peña. Her page was Cruz Chapa-Muñoz. Duchess of All-American City Sierra Nicole Long hails from Edinburg. Her parents are Richard Long and Melissa Awbrey. Cutter Ryland Tredaway was her page. Duchess of Rio Red MyKenzie Larayne Martinez from the province of Mission is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Martinez. Her page was Aiden Lawrence Clark. Duchess of Ruby Red Grapefruit Zenaida Alaniz is a Mission native. Her parents are Mr. and Mrs. Ruben Alaniz. Trey Fortino Casas was her page. Duchess of Green Pastures

Hailie Nicole Ciomperlik is of San Juan. She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Stanley Ciomperlik. Her page was Jacob Cuevas. Duchess of Live Oak Leandra Victoria Flores hails from the province of Edinburg. Her parents are Mr. and Mrs. Jaime Flores. Jett Davis Ruppert was her page. Duchess of Wild Flowers Christina Renee Reyna from the city of Mission is the daughter of Eloy and Melba Reyna. Devin Lerma was her page. Duchess of Pink Grapefruit Cassidy Rae Long is a Mission native. Her parents are Mr. and Mrs. Roy Long. Her page was Modesto Chopper Gonzalez. Duchess of Star Ruby Haley Jo Milam is from the province of McAllen. She is the daughter of Brian and Jackie Milam. DeAndre Kayden Rodriguez was her page. Duchess of Honeydew Izabella Alana Peralez hails

from Mission. She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Noe Peralez. Her page was Alessandro Ramon. Duchess of Purple Onion Victoria Jerine Burns is from Raymondville. Her parents are Charles and Lorraine Burns. Toby Dean Parker was her page. Duchess of Mandarin Orange Reyna Lara is a Mission native. She is the daughter of Feliciano and Silvia Lara. Luciano Candelas was her page. Duchess of Orange Lexi Esparza is from the province of Edinburg. Her parents are Mr. and Mrs. Roy Esparza. Isaac Rodriguez was her page. Duchess of Grain Sorghum Emily Keller of Edinburg is the daughter of Paul and Nancy Keller. Her page was Jake Mealing. Duchess of Cantaloupe Alejandra Vargas from Rio Grande City is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. David Vargas. Isaac Adolfo Perez was

her page. Duchess of Poinsettia Victoria Alexis Barroso hails from Mercedes. Her parents are Martin Barroso, Jr. and Jovana Treviño. Her page was Humberto Sahagun. Duchess of Bluebonnet Robyn Perez is a Mercedes native. She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Roberto Perez, Jr. Her page was Ryan Andrew Garza. Duchess of Lemon Briana Zavala is from Weslaco and the daughter of Deborah Zavala. Joshua Michael Castellanos was her page. Duchess of Marsh White Seedless Abbie Lynn Respondek hails from the province of Sharyland. She is the daughter of Jeffrey and Anita Respondek. Her page was Caleb Josiah Wilkinson. Duchess of International Goodwill Angela Vargas is from Hidalgo. Her parents are Mr. and Mrs. Jesus Vargas. Juan Luis Tamez was her page.

CORONATION

from pg 1B

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February 6, 2015

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Texas Citrus Fiesta Vaquero Cookoff Winners

Six Shooters Smokers – Sweepstakes 1st Place Fajitas, 2nd Place Ranchero Beans, 3rd Place Peach Cobbler, 3rd Place Citrus Presentation. Progress Times photos by Luciano Guerra

Diamond C Ranch 1st Place Campsite, 2nd Place Pan de Campo, 2nd Place Citrus Presentation

Vaquero Cookoff Results Grand Champion Six Shooters Smokers

Pan de Campo 1st – Chinamen’s Smokin’ Grillers 2nd – Diamond C Ranch 3rd – Five Second Rule Ranchero Beans 1st – Smokin’ Pistols 2nd – Six Shooters Smokers 3rd – RPM Cooking Team

Fajitas 1st – Six Shooters Smokers 2nd – Chinamen’s Smokin’ Grillers 3rd – Five Second Rule Peach Cobbler 1st – Mi Pedasito Ranch 2nd – Big G Cooking Team 3rd – Six Shooters Smokers Campsite 1st – Diamond C Ranch

Citrus Presentation 1st – RPM Cooking Team 2nd – Diamond C Ranch 3rd – Six Shooters Smokers Beef Ribs 1st – BBQ Villains 2nd – Smokin’ Pistols BBQ Team 3rd – Los Bomberos Birongueros Pork Ribs 1st – Five Second Rule 2nd – Mi Pedacito Ranch 3rd – Los Bomberos Birongueros

Five Second Rule 1st Place Pork Ribs, 3rd Place Pan de Campo, 3rd Place Fajitas

Chinamen’s Smokin’ Grillers 1st Place Pan de Campo, 2nd Place Fajitas

Mi Pedasito Ranch 1st Place Peach Cobbler, 2nd Place Pork Ribs

RPM Cooking Team 1st Place Citrus Presentation, 3rd Place Ranchero Beans

BBQ Villains 1st Place Beef Ribs,

Los Bomberos Birongueros 3rd Place Pork Ribs, 3rd Place Beef Ribs

Big G Cooking Team 2nd Place Peach Cobbler

Citrus Presentation

Smokin’ Pistols 1st Place Ranchero Beans, 2nd Place Beef Ribs

February 6, 2015

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Fun fair, Vaquero cookoff draw friends, families

By Julie Silva honda Baxter held her hands up in surrender and dropped her jaw in shock as a Mexican bandito held a gun to her head and a friend snapped a picture. At the Fun Fair on Saturday, part of the Texas Citrus Fiesta in Mission, two banditos gave many a good laugh, and Baxter took the opportunity to get a photo to tease her daughter. Earlier in the week, Baxter had gone on a mission trip to an island 50 miles south of Matamoros. “I got sick because I think I was probably a little nervous, and she said, ‘Well, Mom, I don’t think you should be going down there,’ so I had this picture taken looking scared so that she thinks I’m really being hijacked by banditos and I’m going to tell her to send money,” Baxter said as her photographer giggled. Baxter’s a Winter Texan from South Dakota, where her daughter also resides, and she said just days before they’d taken supplies to residents of the island who are living in poverty with no electricity or clean water. She didn’t think she was that scared, but she was made un-

easy when she saw a military truck in Matamoros with a gunman on the back. But the two banditos perusing the Fun Fair Saturday were all in fun as local residents and Winter Texans strolled Leo Peña Placita Park, listening to karaoke and eating foods like kielbasa, funnel cakes and Italian ice. Meanwhile, next door, teams of contestants grilled fajita, prepped pan de campo and readied beans for the Vaquero cookoff. Categories in the competition include pan de campo, ranchero beans, fajitas, beef ribs, pork ribs and peach cobbler.

Judges are kept behind closed doors, and different competitors are given a number, so the judges don’t know which team cooked the different submissions. Rolando Longoria, a member of BBQ Villains, said about 40 people amongst all the competitors in the cookoff are all friends who like to give each other a hard time. BBQ Villains along had 19 people in it. Last year, Longoria said the Villains placed in the beans division, and he was aiming for first this year, but it wasn’t meant to be. However, BBQ Villains did take first place in beef ribs.

Special Thanks to

Next door, the Salinas family, of Peñitas, hoped to protect their title in the peach cobbler category. Letty Salinas’ secret last year was copying a recipe off a quick mix box in the grocery store. It worked last year, but this year she came back with the same recipe and wasn’t able to place. “It’s just for fun. It’s a stress reliever,” Letty Salinas said. “Our kids enjoy it, especially the little ones.” Leroy Salinas started the family on the tradition five years ago with pan de campo. “We’re all Mexicans, come on, we all know how to barbecue, but to make pan de campo is a little bit different,” Leroy Salinas said. “We’ve adapted to different styles, different ways. Different cities like it different ways.”

For example, Salinas said, in Mission, people like the traditional, thinner pan de campo, not like Pillsbury. Even so, it wasn’t the year for Salinas’ team Texas Edition. The family didn’t place in any of the categories. Mi Pedasito Ranch took first in the peach cobbler with Big G Cooking Team and Six Shooters Smokers coming in second and third respectively. Six Shooters Smokers, which took first in fajitas second in rancheros beans, took the sweepstakes award.

Congratulations To All The Participants Of The 78th Texas Citrus Fiesta!

Walmart Save money. Live better.

215 E. Mile 3 Rd. • Palmhurst • 519-8453 1705 Exp. 83 • Peñitas • 580-6840

for their support of the

2015 Texas Citrus Fiesta

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February 6, 2015