March 27, 2015 - Progress Times Issue

Winfree brings home the gold

RGV Livestock Show champions announced

See story page 1B See story page 8A Friday, March 27, 2015 www.ptrgv.com | 50 Cents

Healthcare bill rises from ashes of hospital district

I

By Julie Silva f approved, a bill authored by State Rep. Bobby Guerra would not create a healthcare district he emphasized repeatedly in a committee hearing last week.

It would lower the tax rate cap from 75 cents to 25 cents, he said. Voters still must petition Hidalgo County Commissioners Court to call for another election to create the district.

“I just want to make sure that in the event the county does decide that it wants this that we have these safeguards in place,” Guerra told the County Affairs Commit-

tee, later adding, “I don’t know that a healthcare district is going to be formed or an election is going to be called.”

In November, an effort to create a hospital district with an 8-cent tax rate was voted down by 52 percent of the voters in Hidalgo County.

This was after voters statewide supported a constitutional amendment in 2013 that raised the cap from 10 cents per $100 evaluation to the statewide standard of 75 cents.

The bill also changes the name of the entity to a healthcare district, rather than hospital district as it

has been called. Guerra said the change was a matter of semantics, emphasizing the district would benefit the entire county, not just hospitals.

The hospital district, Guerra said, would improve indigent healthcare programs, help draw down more federal dollars and help fund the University of Texas-Rio Grande Valley School of Medicine. The budget for the district would have to be approved by the Hidalgo County Commissioners Court, and it would be governed by a board of nine appointees, one from each member of the commissioners court as well as appointees from,

McAllen, Edinburg, Pharr and Mission.

Committee member Rep. Tony Tinderholt, R-Arlington, said he’d received several calls from Hidalgo County residents asking him not to support the bill. He pointed to the defeated push last year, reasoning, “So the people in the county apparently do not want this. Am I correct?”

Guerra said the 75 cent cap was scary to voters and there was a lot of misunderstanding during the last election.

Staphany Ortega and Aaron Barreiro, both UT-Pan American students who have applied to attend the new

medical school, testified in favor of the bill. Ortega said her own grandmother, who only speaks Spanish, voted against the hospital district because she didn’t know it would benefit the medical school.

“Like my grandmother, a lot of people in the Valley only speak Spanish or they are not very informed, and so when they go out and vote, maybe they’re not making a very well informed decision,” Ortega said.

Ortega referenced her father, a quadriplegic, and her brother, diagnosed with cerebral palsy, and said she knows first-hand that the Rio

Grande Valley lacks physicians in a lot of specialties.

“We really need physicians, but specifically, culturally sensitive physicians who are bilingual,” Ortega said.

Barreiro agreed with Ortega, stating that he works in the Edinburg Regional emergency room and has found many doctors in the area are flown in.

“Although they do a great job in serving our members and our community, they don’t understand the culture,” Barreiro said. “By having this medical school here in our community, it will go

See HOSPITAL DISTRICT 12A

TEACHING EXCELLENCE

Isabel Venegas works with the afternoon cohort of prekindergarten students at Cavazos Elementary. Mission CISD announced open enrollment, full-day pre-K for the 2015-2016 school year. Progress Times photo by Lea Victoria Juarez

MCISD declares full-day pre-K for all H-E-B honors educators in Mission, La Joya B A

By Lea Victoria Juarez

By Lea Victoria Juarez

fter three attempts at the H-E-B Excellence in Education award, Nora Luna from Bentsen Elementary in Sharyland is a finalist this year for the Leadership Elementary category.

The fifth-grade teacher was trying to get her class situated Tuesday morning when H-E-B representatives surprised her with a $1,000 check. She is among four teachers in the Mission and La Joya area named finalists for the awards program.

H-E-B reps traveled to Mission Jr. High of Mission CISD to award Jesus Razo with his finalist check for the Rising Star Secondary award. Norm Sands of Ta-

basco Elementary in La Joya is a finalist for the Lifetime Achievement Elementary award, and Ann Marie Priolo from the Sharyland Alternative Education Center for Lifetime Achievement Secondary.

In addition, each of the educators’ schools received a $1,000 check. The finalists are invited to Austin on May 2 and May 3 to compete on a statewide level for larger cash prizes totaling $430,000. Winners and their schools will each receive a larger cash prize depending on the category.

Luna, a science teacher, said she will use the check to help fund her summer Peru

See EXCELLENCE 7A

ABOVE: Norm Sands of Tabasco Elementary in La Joya is awarded a $1000 check for being a finalist for the H-E-B Lifetime Achievement elementary award. BELOW: Mission Jr. High’s Jesus Razo receives at check becoming a finalist for H-E-B’s Rising Star secondary award. Progress Times photos

y expanding its prekindergarten program to full-day, Mission CISD hopes to improve the area literacy rate and reduce remediation in the long run, according to Superintendent Ricardo Lopez.

Rep. Sergio Muñoz filed a bill aimed to reinstate fullday pre-K in Texas, but Lopez said that students cannot wait for a bill that may or may not pass. MCISD will offer open enrollment fullday prekindergarten starting in the 2015-2016 school year.

Texas did away with $200 million in state grants in 2011 and, as a result, many Valley districts had to shorten the prekindergarten days or cut the program entirely.

“Every year we wait, more and more kids are not being educated to the stan-

dards that we want them,” Lopez said. “This is about our community and it’s such a great endeavor that we need to start it now.”

The initiative will be funded by the district, with a total budget between $1.7 million and $2 million, most of that going to staff. There are 23 pre-K teachers in the district – one teacher and one aide in the classroom – but that number is going to double once the program expands. In addition, the district needs to look into how much busing will go up and minor classroom renovations such as repainting walls.

Each year the district uses cost-cutting formulas to phase out projects as part of standard procedure. The add up has allowed MCISD to budget enough to get the full-day pre-K off the ground

See PRE-K 12A

INSIDE

Love and Vietnam

Doug and Cindy Young fell in love during the war. After the turn of the century, they returned and met the newest member of their family – 31-yearold Trang Phan.

See story page 3A

INDEX

Entertainment | pg. 2A

Lifestyle | pg. 6A

Downtown facelift

International competition

Mission city leaders celebrated the finished Conway Streetscape project in a ribbon cutting ceremony Tuesday.

Work spanned from First to 14th streets.

Three Mission High School DECA students have qualified to advance to the 2015 DECA International Career Development Conference in April.

See story page 5A

See story page 5A

Opinion | pg. 4A

Sports | pg. 1B

Obituaries | pg. 13A

Classifieds | pg. 14A

entertainment

UTPA FESTIBA rescheduled for today, March 27

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he University of Texas-Pan American has rescheduled its annual Festival of International Books and Arts (FESTIBA) Community Day at Jardín del Arte for 6 p.m. Friday, March 27, at the Edinburg City Hall Courtyard, 415 W. University Drive. Community Day at Jardín del Arte is free and open to the public.

With the theme of Entre Dos Mundos: Uniting Community Through Arts and Literacy, the family-friendly festival will feature musical performances, children's activity tents, book displays, children's plays and storytellers, local and international artists, author presentations and book signings, and a variety of art and food vendors.

Thousands of books will be distributed to children as part of UTPA's partnership with the South Texas Literacy Coalition and six outstanding local schools will be recognized with the Top Readers at Community Festival Award for their exemplary level of commitment to literacy.

The event was originally scheduled for March 6 but was rescheduled because of inclement weather.

For more information and a complete schedule of events, visit http://community.utpa.edu/festiba/.

RIGHT: Children peruse the books at last year’s FESTIBA.

Join Edinburg Scenic wetlands on a wildflower tour

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pring is a beautiful time of year, with blooms popping up all over the Rio Grande Valley. The Edinburg Scenic Wetlands & World Birding

Center is providing a close up look at these colorful flowers. A tour will be held Saturday, April 11, from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m., to see native flowers and learn about the

habitat they help create.

From the beautiful, reddish-orange blooms of the Indian Blanket flower to the wonderful, sweet-smelling purple blooms of the Tex-

as Mountain Laurel, these spring blooms are sure to leave participants in awe of their beauty. This is an opportunity to photograph the beauty of spring and cherish the images for years to come.

The “Wildflower Van Tour” trip fee is $22 for members and $25 for non-members.

Lunch, snacks, drinks, and transportation are included. Reservations are required up to two days in advance. Space is limited, so call ahead to reserve a spot.

The Edinburg Scenic Wetlands and World Birding Center is at 714 Raul Longoria Road in Edinburg. For additional information, call 956-381-9922 or visit www. edinburgwbc.org.

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NEWS | SPORTS | ENTERTAINMENT | PHOTOS

Coming Attractions

March 20-22 · The 2015 Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show features country superstar Gary Allan performing opening night March 13. The daily free entertainment lineup includes The Freddie Prez Show, magic and hypnotist shows, petting zoo, miniature horse, pig races, a BMX stunt team, chainsaw artists, kids tractor show, juggler, lumberjack show and more. Plus, local bands will be performing multiple shows each day on the Beer Garden Stage. Tickets are available at the following locations online at www. rgvls.com.

March 20/May 12 · Tickets go on sale Friday, March 20, for the upcoming Kenny Chesney concert. Chesney will be in town with “The Big Revival Tour,” for one night only on Tuesday, May 12. Doors open at 7 p.m., and the performance begins at 7 p.m.

Tickets range from $85 to $296 and are available at ticketmaster.com or by call 800-745-3000.

March 24 · The final concert of the 2014-15 season for the McAllen Symphonic Band begins at 7:30 p.m. at Trinity Worship Center in McAllen. The “Journey Through American Music” performance is 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.

March 26 · The Gala of The Royal Horses performance at State Farm Arena begins at 7 p.m. Along with the magnificent stallions, Spanish flamenco dancers will be featured in authentic vibrant costumes accompanied by the mellow notes of a guitar to bring the sights and sounds of Spain. Tickets start at $25 and are available at State Farm Arena Box Office, ticketmaster.com or by calling 800-7453000. For group discounts, call Angie Mercado at 227-6036.

April 1-22 · UT-Pan American professor and art instructor Douglas Clark will conduct a sculpture workshop at the Upper Valley Art League (UVAL). It will be held once a week for four weeks on Wednesdays

from 6 to 9 p.m. Materials and tools will be furnished. No experience is necessary. The class fee is $150 for UVAL members and $180 for nonmembers. Sign up at the UVAL desk during regular gallery hours. It is located in the Kika de la Garza Fine Arts Center, 921 E. 12th in Mission.

Call 583-2787 for further information.

April 9 · Jesus Adrian Romero performs at State Farm Arena in Hidalgo with doors opening at 7 p.m. The show starts at 7 p.m. Tickets range from $30 to $85 and are available at ticketmaster.com or by calling 800-745-3000.

April 10 · Everyone’s favorite, lovable comedian, Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias, brings his world tour to State Farm Arena in Hidalgo. The show starts at 7:30 p.m., and doors open at 6:30 p.m. Tickets run from $30 to $65 and are on sale at ticketmaster.com or by calling 800-745-3000.

April 17 · Breaking Benjamin will perform at the Bogus Ford Pharr Event Center, previously Pharr Events Center. Special guests will be Young Guns. Tickets are $37.50. The events center is located at 3000 N. US 281 in Pharr. For more information, visit www.pharrevents.com/ events/.

April 17-19 · The 12th Annual Beach-N-Biker Fest will be held at the South Padre Island Convention Center beginning at 9 a.m. each day. Three-day event pass is $20.

Children 12 and under are free but must leave by 8 p.m. The event will feature concerts, comedy by Raymond Orta, a parade, run, biker games for adults and kids, ride-n-bike show, food, and more.

The event is a charity fundraiser for the Magic Valley Riders Motorcycle Club Inc. For more information, tickets, list of events, visit www.beachnbikerfest.com.

April 18 · Quinta Mazatlan will hold their Earth Day Festival, Vida Verde, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visitors to the festival will enjoy live animal shows, artist booths, educational exhibitors, food vendors, organic cooking classes, farmers market, trash fashion show, eco-art projects, health fitness activities, Music in the Park, rock climbing and more. Vida

See COMING ATTRACTIONS 11A

March 27, 2015

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Finding Youngs find love and family in a daughter in what Vietnam was once a warzone V

By Julie Silva

ietnam is where Doug and Cindy Young fell in love more than 40 years ago, and it was Vietnam where they met the daughter they never knew they needed – 31-year-old Trang Phan – 10 years ago.

The family made it official in an adoption ceremony March 4, but the feeling has long been mutual.

Ten years ago, Trang was a junior at Hue University, where the Youngs taught English. Most of the students had never spoken with a native English speaker, and they’d come over to the Youngs’ house after school for English Club or to visit or watch an American movie. Trang and then freshman Aí Nhân Ngo were regulars at the Youngs.

Phan said when she first met the Youngs, Doug was interested in Hue culture, so she brought him books on the subject. In return, she said, she wanted to learn “Cowboy culture.”

For years, the Youngs have called Phan and Ngo their daughters, and Doug has a photo taken last year of him with an arm around each wearing a shirt that reads, “You can’t scare me, I have two daughters.”

Phan was in Doug’s American culture class, and he compared her to Hermione from Harry Potter, always in the front row raising her hand. Phan had an undefinable quality, Doug said, that showed she was strong and could handle life in the United States.

“Even though we had other students who were just as smart, they (Phan and Ngo) had that special something that says they could survive in the American culture, which is so very different from theirs,” Doug said.

Phan’s Vietnamese dad worked for the Americans

during the war and spent three years in a communist reeducation camp – a concentration camp. He now walks with a limp and cannot work legally, so the family’s income comes from his wife’s business.

Three days a week, Phan rode her bicycle from her village outside of Hue four miles to the university. Her tutor was 10 miles away. On the way home, she’d stop at the market to get supplies for dinner. Doug said she took over making the family’s evening meal in sixth grade, having to go out and gather firewood for the stove.

“So seeing Trang in high heels and a sharp little skirt is …” Cindy said as Doug cut in, “It’s really quite a transformation in the last 10 years that we’ve watched.”

Doug served as Phan’s faculty advisor on her final thesis and she graduated just as the Youngs were packing up to return to the States. The idea that Phan could come with them didn’t occur until they were packing. She joked that she wanted to go with them, and they have a picture of her tucked into a duffle bag.

But a lot of international students are intimidated by the high tuition rates in the United States and scholarships are hard to come by, Doug said. Phan went on to get a job with IBM, working nights in Saigon, which meant she could keep up with the Youngs during the day in the United States online via instant messaging.

An offer The Youngs made repeat visits to Vietnam, stopping each time in Saigon to visit Phan. And in 2007, the Youngs came up with a plan and pitched it to Phan after a trip to the zoo. If Phan came to the United States to get her master’s degree, the Youngs would pay for her tuition and books. She could get a job as a graduate assistant, which

“They regarded me as their child and that’s quite special to me. To me, it feels like when I’m far from home, I still have a home.”

– Trang Phan meant she would qualify for in-state tuition, and with that money she could pay for room and board at the University of Texas-Pan American.

“Our only condition was that when she finished her education, she would return to Vietnam,” Doug said. “I remember saying explicitly, ‘Vietnam needs your brainpower more than the United States.’”

The Youngs remember Phan staring at her toes as

they spoke.

“You’re wondering why we’re doing this? What’s their ulterior motive?” Cindy asked her. Phan nodded. “We just said, ‘We’ve had a great life, and we want to give back.’ That’s it. We have no other conditions.”

Phan said, “It was probably one of the biggest shocks for me ever. I thought about it, but I really love to study, and I really couldn’t say no.”

In August 2008, Doug

Doug Young, left, and Cindy Young, right, walk out of the courthouse after formally adopting 31-year-old Trang Phan.

The Youngs met Phan while in Vietnam 10 years ago.

went to pick Phan up to bring her to the United States, and

See YOUNGS 11A

Reminiscing...

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30 Years Ago This Week

De Los Santos gets common cause award Ofelia de los Santos, public information director for La Joya Independent School District, was named by Common Cause as one of its six honorees for 1985. The award was the 1985 Common Cause Public Service Achievement Award.

De los Santos was recognized as a citizen activist with Valley Interfaith.

The Eagles 3,200-meter relay team won first at Bobcat relays The Eagles finished fourth in the team standings with 67 points, behind champion Harlingen with 89.

A city employee filed a slander, libel suit The suit was filed against the Progress Times, Publisher June Brann, Virginia Townsend, Nancy Shary and J.D. Villarreal. It was filed by Ester Rodriguez, then clerk at city hall.

Citizens filed a lawsuit to stop an apartment complex Joe Summers and Company and Bob Howell Furniture Company, both of whom had commercial property in the neighborhood where the apartments were planned, filed the lawsuit.

The suit asks that the city not issue a building permit to the Hernandez brothers until certain legal requirements were satisfied. It also asked that all actions taken by Mission City Council in a March 25 closed session be voided, stating the council violated the Texas Open Meetings Act.

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opinion

By Ed Sterling Texas Press Association

STATE CAPITAL HIGHLIGHTS

AUSTIN — Bills to address the illegal importation and exploitation of persons and to protect the state’s border with Mexico moved through the Texas House last week. They were the first major statewide legislation to be approved by the body since Jan. 13, the opening day of the 140-day session.

The human trafficking bill, House Bill 10 by Rep. Senfronia Thompson, D-Houston, concerns criminal and civil consequences for the smuggling or trafficking of human beings. On March 17, it passed on a final vote of 145-0. The border security bill, HB 11 by Rep. Dennis Bonnen, R-Angleton, passed March 19 on a final vote of 130-11. The eleven who voted against the bill were: Reps.

Diego Bernal, Joe Farias, Roland Gutierrez, Trey Martinez Fischer, Justin Rodriguez, all Democrats of San Antonio; Rep. Cesar Jose Blanco, D-El Paso; Rep. Mary Gonzalez, D-Clint (near El Paso); Rep. Celia Israel, D-Austin; Reps.

Borris Miles and Armando Walle, both Houston Democrats; and one Republican, David Simpson of Tyler.

Some of the opposition resulted from the bill’s heavy focus on Hidalgo and Starr counties, and issues also arose over the cost of the legislation and how the funding might be better spent on other budget priorities.

Rep. Rafael Anchia, D-Dallas, who chairs the House Committee on International Trade and Intergovernmental Affairs, issued the following statement on the passage of HB 11: “First, HB 11 gets the state guard off the border. Militarizing the border sends the wrong signal to our state’s No. 1 trading partner, Mexico, and costs the state $650 million in an-

nual gross product. Next, it deploys important law enforcement resources to help interdict international drug cartels and criminal gangs.

Finally, it establishes southbound checkpoints to stop the flow of illegal guns from Texas which have been used by cartels to terrorize the people of Mexico.”

Senate passes ‘carry’ bill On a party-line vote of 2011, the Texas Senate’s Republican majority approved SB 11, legislation to permit concealed handgun license holders to carry weapons on college and university campuses.

The bill’s primary author, Sen. Brian Birdwell, R-Granbury, said, “The people of the state of Texas own our public universities, therefore we ought not be limiting a right on public property,” referring to the Constitution’s Second Amendment. SB 11 would allow public universities to set rules for storage of weapons and ammunition in dorms and other on campus residencies.

Any bill originating in one house of the Legislature must be approved by the other house of the Legislature before being enacted into law.

In other news, the Senate Finance Committee approved SB 1 and Senate Joint Resolution 1, by Committee Chair Jane Nelson, R-Flower Mound. The bill and proposed constitutional amendment, if approved by voters, would increase the homestead exemption from the current $15,000 to 25 percent of the median home price.

Nelson’s committee also approved SB 7 and SB 8, measures to cut franchise taxes by $2 billion. SB 7 would reduce the franchise tax rate and SB 8 would exempt businesses that make less than $4 million in annual revenue from paying the tax.

11 governors write to EPA Gov. Greg Abbott last week asked the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to void its proposed changes to the National Ambient Air Quality Standard for ozone in favor of maintaining the current standard of 75 parts per billion.

In a letter dated March 16 that he signed along with 10 other governors, Abbott pointed to air quality improvements in Texas and other states since the U.S. Clean Air Act took effect and expressed concern that the EPA’s proposed standards could not be achieved even in Texas’ most pristine national parks. The governors of Oklahoma, Mississippi, Indiana, Louisiana, Maine, Wisconsin, Georgia, Idaho, South Carolina and Arkansas joined Abbott in signing the letter.

In the letter, Abbott said the federal government’s proposed air quality standards violate “free-market policies that promote job growth and economic innovation by imposing an onerous, job-crushing standard.”

The Clean Air Act, written to protect the public from airborne contaminants known to be hazardous to human health, was originally passed

by Congress and signed into law on Dec. 17, 1963, by President Lyndon B. Johnson and was renewed in 1970, 1977 and 1990.

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NEWS | SPORTS | ENTERTAINMENT | PHOTOS Letters to the Editor

Welding the future

C

To the editor: ongratulations to MCISD and STC for forging this valuable alliance for the students.

Even though some parents seem to not want to admit it, there are many fantastic students that just don’t want or need, nor would they flourish in, our colleges. I know I was one of them. Their forte is being able to solve a problem and translate it to a practical solution that they can pick up and hold in their hands.

These are the students who will solve the problems that will perfect the physics students’ theories, work the bugs out of the engineering students’ designs, and repair the ones that break. There is a huge future for these the Edisons and Fords of the 21st century, especially the ones who have the love of the technical side and find, through exposure in this program, the enticing taste of theory. They will be the Stephen Hawkings of the future.

Keep up your good work MCISD. Just one observation, watch out for STC. It usually seems to want all the remaining educational tax dollars in the valley so after McAllen gets through, watch your pocket book for leaks.

And one question: Why not Sharyland ISD? Too busy with your new school? Sorry, that was a bit snarky!

Signed, Ned Sheats Mission

W

transportation sector's energy needs while fueling 39 percent of the industrial sector.

Few of my fellow environmentalists can see the obvious and instead attack as evil those who help keep the lights on and the furnace warm.

Activist documentarian Josh Fox compared the industry to "the witches in 'Macbeth.'" They "say to Macbeth, 'Oh, you're going to be the king.' And they leave out the part about how you're going to have to kill all your friends, your wife's going to go crazy and commit suicide, and you'll be dead in three days.

They left that part out."

He's right about leaving parts out. Anti-fossil-fuel people like Fox tell Americans, "Oh you are going to save the planet," and leave out the part about no air travel, no car usage, and millions of Americans freezing to death in the winter.

In reality, the energy revolution has nothing to do with witchcraft and everything to do with American technological prowess. In particular, hydraulic fracturing -- or fracking – has allowed unprecedented access to energy reserves.

That's good for things like surviving the winter. It's also good for the economy. Oil and gas production directly and indirectly supported more than 2.1 million jobs in

2012. Experts forecast that cheap natural gas will help create an additional 1 million jobs by 2025.

Consumers gain, too. As supply has increased and prices have dropped, the average household enjoyed an additional $1,200 in disposable income in 2012 -- a welcome relief in a terrible economy.

Meanwhile, fracking has actually resulted in major environmental gains. In 2012, the United States enjoyed its lowest level of carbon emissions in 20 years. A major contributor to this drop, according to the federal Energy Information Administration, was "a decline in coal-fired electricity generation, due largely to historically low gas prices."

That's not good enough for alarmists like Fox, who are part of a movement that hates all oil and gas CEOs that don't wear a military uniform. But American consumers will start listening when environmentalists stop using fossil fuels themselves. Until then, they are going to keep the heat on.

Michael James Barton is the Energy Advisor at ARTIS Research, and speaks around the country on energy and energy security matters. He previously served as the deputy director of Middle East policy at the Pentagon.

What is the Left's substitute for fossil fuels?

By Michael James Barton

ashington, D.C. and New York began March with huge snowstorms. Boston is on the cusp of breaking its all-time snowfall record for a single winter.

Think the cold was unbearable? This brutal winter could have been much worse if families had to rely solely on renewable energy for heat and power.

It takes a lot of energy to keep American households warm. Amid last year's polar vortexes, natural gas consumption spiked to record levels, up to 137 billion cubic feet per day. So far, the green movement has spectacularly failed to create an energy source that can endure America's most frigid months.

Green energy has its place.

But it can't heat America in the winter. Wind, solar, hydropower, geothermal, and biomass energy combined accounted for only about 10 percent of all energy consumption in 2013. To put that in perspective, if we had to rely on solar alone at today's capacity, barely 3 percent of all American households would have heat and power.

Oil and gas will remain major energy sources for the next 25 years. Experts forecast that by 2040, oil will still provide 87 percent of the

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Mission leaders celebrate Conway Streetscape

By Julie Silva ission city leaders celebrated the completion of the Conway Streetscape project with a ribbon cutting ceremony Tuesday.

Mayor Norberto “Beto” Salinas said the city rebuilt the Bryan Road and U.S. 83 intersection, and “it’s a beautiful project,” but he didn’t get nearly the response he received from the work on Conway.

“Almost everybody is happy about having this renovation,” Salinas said. “You see it at night. It’s done so much for our community, and it’s given the business owners some energy to continue working hard and taking care of their customers.”

The project originally was scheduled to finish in November, but weather delays have pushed the completion date back. The $2.5 million initiative reconstructed sidewalks from First to 14th Streets with pavers and placed benches, planters and palm trees along Conway.

About $1.9 million was funded through a grant from the Federal Transit Administration, and the remainder was funded through the Mission Redevelopment Authority. Daniel Silva, CEO of the MRA, said the project came in under budget, but the city

Jeremiah Gutierrez, Stephanie Galaviz, and Melissa Carrillo are advancing to international competition.

MHS DECA students qualify for international competition

is still working on final totals.

Richard Hernandez, president of the MRA Board, pointed out for every local $1 invested in the project, it received $4 in federal money.

“Thank you guys for the patience in the construction phase,” Hernandez said. “We know it caused a lot of chaos, but the result, I can see, is beautiful.”

The project encouraged local business owners to spruce up their own buildings to keep up with the downtown facelift. Alex Meade, CEO of the Mission Economic Development

Council offered merchants $3,000 in non-matching funds and up to $10,000 if the businesses matched the funding. Out of $150,000 invested in the buildings on Conway, $50,000 came from the merchants themselves, Meade said.

“Mission is a growing community and downtown is vital for any growing community,” he said.

City Manager Martin Garza said the project is a perfect example of teamwork. Several organizations already have asked to put banners on poles erected at the beginning and end of the project.

Work on Tatan Rodriguez Park, on First Street, is ongoing, Garza said. Part of the Conway Streetscape project included plans for a splash pad at the park, but the city also has a grant to put in benches, sidewalks and lighting at the park. It should be finished in time for summer.

“This is going to be an improvement that’s going to facilitate not only the merchants, but also people that come and visit the city of Mission who can walk the streets and be able to enjoy the landscaping, be able to enjoy the shopping here in Mission,” Garza said.

T

hree Mission High School (MHS) DECA students have qualified to advance to the 2015 DECA International Career Development Conference in April.. The students earned the advancement to international competitions based upon their performance in the DECA State Career Development competition in the areas of Marketing, Finance, Accounting, Management, and Hospitality.

The students advancing are: Jeremiah Gutierrez, Stephanie Galaviz, and Melissa Carrillo.

Fourteen MHS DECA students advanced to DECA state. They were: Christo-

pher Barbozo, Sports and Entertainment Series; Melissa Carrillo, Stephanie Galaviz, Jeremiah Gutierrez, Fashion Merchandising Promotional Plan; Zaldrak Cavazos, Automotive Services; Halberto Garza and Gema Garcia, Marketing Communications; Susana Martinez, Karla Fraga, Vanessa Gonzalez, Rebeca Urbina, Entrepreneurship Innovation Plan; Joanna Montantes, Daniella Gonzalez, Samantha Alaniz, Sports and Entertainment Operational Research.

MHS DECA member, Jeremiah Gutierrez also obtained the position of DECA District 1 vice president.

Robert Nelsen named president of Cal State Sacramento

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he California State University Board of Trustees appointed former UT Pan American president Robert. S. Nelsen, Ph.D., as president of California State University, Sacramento (officially known as “Sacramento State”) this week. He will assume leadership of the university in July 2015.

“Sacramento State has truly become a destination campus where students receive a transformative educational experience that prepares them for success in the future,” Nelsen said. “The opportunity to work alongside the many dedicated fac-

ulty and staff who guide students along that journey and prepare them for achievements beyond the classroom is incredibly exciting.”

Nelsen will become the eighth permanent president of Sacramento State and succeeds Alexander Gonzalez, who will retire at the end of the academic year after 12 years as president.

“Dr. Robert Nelsen is an ambitious and visionary leader who will successfully build on the foundation President Gonzalez has established at Sacramento State," said CSU Trustee Steve Glazer, chair of the Sacramento State Pres-

idential Search Committee.

“He has extensive experience leading a large, diverse university and a long history of always putting students first.”

“Dr. Nelsen served The University of Texas System with great distinction and we will miss his leadership and guidance. He embraced the culturally rich environment of the Rio Grande Valley as president of UT Pan American, and his passion and dedication for students and faculty and their success are without comparison,” said Pedro Reyes, Ph.D., UT System’s executive vice chancellor for academic affairs.

The California State University is the largest system of senior higher education in the country, with 23 campuses, more than 460,000 students and 47,000 faculty and staff. The CSU campus in Sacramento is home to 29,349 students and more than 200,000 graduates.

Under the leadership of Nelsen (2010-2014), the UT Pan American student body grew to over 21,000; total enrollment increased by 9.4 percent , first-time, full-time freshmen increased by 32.4 percent and first-time entering transfer students topped 35.6 percent ; the six-year

graduation rates increased by 9.8 percent and the annual freshman retention rate rose to 76.1 percent; athletics joined the Western Athletic Conference; named “College of the Year” by the National Hispanic Institute for 2014; and moved the overall university classification up to “doctoral serving university.”

“Jody and I have loved everything about the Rio Grande Valley, and it will be very hard to leave this magical place,” Nelsen said. “But we are excited to embark on a new adventure in California, and we will take all of you with us in our hearts. Somos para siempre familia.”

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NEWS | SPORTS | ENTERTAINMENT | PHOTOS

Family Fish Camp planned

C 15th Birthday Elizabeth Bustillos was honored by her mother, Elizabeth, on the occasion of her 15th birthday on March 6 with a celebration at BJS Restaurant in McAllen. The honoree was escorted by Diego Bustillos. She is a 9th grader at Mission High School.

Austin Studio Joy Deneé Brady and Joel David Galindo Jr. Palacios Photography

atch the big one at Adolph Thomae Jr. County Park during their Family Fish Camp, Saturday, April 11, from 9 a.m.

– 3 p.m. Experienced anglers from Fishings’ Future and the US Fish and Wildlife Service will be on hand to teach children and their parents the basics of fishing.

Children between the ages of six and 16 will be practicing their fishing skills and learning important tips.

The free camp, sponsored by Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge, includes fish identification & measuringcatch & release techniques; types of fishing gear;knot-tying; bait, lures and bobber fishing skills; leave no trace principles; and

Amazing owl adaptations Joy Deneé Brady to wed at Quinta Mazatlan Joel David Galindo Jr.

P

astors John and Terry Brady of McAllen are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Joy Deneé Brady to Joel (Jody) David Galindo Jr. of Mission, the son of Joel and Nelda L. Galindo. Pastor John Brady will officiate the marriage on June 20 at The Family Church in McAllen.

The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Jerry and Bonnie Copeland of Charlotte, North Carolina, and the late Rea Rae Davis, and John and Virginia Brady of McAllen. She is a 2002 graduate of Nikki Rowe High School in McAllen and a 2004 graduate of Rhema Bible Training Center in Broken Arrow,

Oklahoma. She served as a missionary in Thailand for three years and is currently employed at The Family Church.

The groom-elect is the grandson of Bertha E. Galindo and the late Rev. Jose Galindo of McAllen and Beatriz B. Martinez and the late Carlos L. Martinez of Mission. He is a 2006 graduate of Veterans Memorial High School in Mission and received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Civil Engineering from The University of Texas at Austin in 2010. He is currently employed at ERO Architects in McAllen.

The couple plans to reside in McAllen.

O

wls are some of the most fascinating and mysterious raptors in the world. Visit Quinta Mazatlan on Thursday, April 2 at 6 p.m. for a Nature Lecture Series tak by bird expert Mary Gustafson. Mary will be talking about owl adaptations and the owls of the Rio Grande Valley.

For the past nine years Gustafson has worked as Coordinator for the Rio Grande Joint Venture, a new US FWS bird habitat conservation partnership. Her employer changed from Texas Parks and Wildlife Department to American Bird Conservancy halfway through, switching from state to NGO without a hitch. She continues to work

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Quinceanera and milestone birthday photos are upper body, single column of the individual only; no group shots.

Engagement, wedding and anniversary photos of the couple are run two columns in size.

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water safety and Texas fishing regulations The program includes all fishing equipment, free fishing gifts and Junior Angler certificates for those who complete the entire camp.

Lunch is included. Space is limited so visit www.fish-

ingsfuture.org to register online. Adolph Thomae, Jr. County Park is located at 37844 Marshall Hutts Rd in Arroyo City. For more information, visit: www. co.cameron.tx.us/parks/thomae_park.htm or www.fws. refuge/laguna_atascosa.

Events Calendar Mar ch 28 – A family nature photography program will take place at 10:30 a.m. for families to learn the basics of taking pictures in nature. Bring a point-and-shoot camera, DSLR or cell phone camera to the McAllen Nature Center, 4101 W. Business 83, to participate. For more information, call 681-3333.

Mar ch 28 – The Upper Valley Art League will have a photography meeting to discuss the use of photos in art at 11 a.m. Topic of discussion is ‘Did famous artists use photos?’

All artists are invited to attend. UVAL is located at 921 E. 12th St. in Mission.

Mar ch 28 – The kick-off for the Third Annual Edinburg Bird-a-Thon at the Edinburg World Birding Center begins at 8 a.m. with team registrations, bird walks and birding workshops to learn basic birding skills. The competition runs through May 4 followed by an awards ceremony on May 6. Divisions range from age 5 and up. To register, call 381-9922 on or before March 28. The registration fee is $10 per adult and $8 per child. Each registrant will receive a free T-shirt, snacks and other gifts.

The EWBC is located at 714 S. Raul Longoria Rd. Mar ch 28 – The Boys & Girls Club will host their 13th “Boots n’ Bling” Gala at the Mission Community Center located at 1420 E. Kika De La Garza at 6:30 p.m. It will feature live music, silent and live auctions and an elegant dinner. All proceeds benefit the club’s scholarship program. Tickets are $75 for individual and $750 for a table. They can be purchased at the Boys & Girls Club office located at 209 W. 18th St. in Mission. For additional information, call 585-3606.

Mar ch 28 – Quinta Mazatlan will host a Nature Egg Hunt from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Attendees will learn about bird eggs with some experiments, relay race and an egg hunt.

Fee is $3 per person. Quinta Mazatlan is located at 600 Sunset Dr. in McAllen.

April

on bird and bird habitat conservation planning efforts in the Tamaulipan Brushlands and Chihuahuan Desert.

Gustafson has been watching birds since she was about six years old, largely due to her grandfather’s influence.

She got serious about actively seeking birds at 14 when Robert Segedi of the Cleveland Museum of Natural History got her interested in the more scientific side of birding. In her free time, she coordinates the local Rare Bird Alert and edits data for eBird.

The Nature Lecture series takes place Thursday evenings through April 2015.

The program fee is $3 per person and no advance reservation is required. Quinta Mazatlan is located at 600 Sunset in McAllen, one block south of La Plaza Mall on 10th Street. For more information contact Quinta Mazatlan at (956) 681-3370 or visit www.quintamazatlan.com.

Apr il 2 - The Easter Rabbit will visit Speer Memorial Library with his basket full of Easter eggs and other springtime goodies at 6 p.m. Toddlers to fifth grade are invited to participate in the search of Easter eggs. Check with the children’s department as times are subject to change. All activities are free and the public is invited to attend.

Apr il 3 – 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.

Apr il 4 – This month’s Edinburg World Birding Center (EWBC) Toddler Play Date is all about dragonflies. For families with children ages 1 to 4, activities include puppet shows, story-telling, puzzle time, free play, coloring, crafts, and guided walks throughout the grounds. It runs 9 to 10:30 a.m. Cost is $2 per toddler with free admission for one guardian. The EWBC is located at 714 S. Raul Longoria Rd. Call 381-9922 for information and to register.

Apr il 11 – Edinburg Scenic Wetlands will hold a Wildflower Tour from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. to see native flowers and learn about the habitat they help create. The “Wildflower Van Tour” trip fee is $22 for members and $25 for non-members. Lunch, snacks, drinks, and transportation are included. Reservations are required up to two days in advance. Space is limited, so please call ahead to reserve your spot. The Edinburg Scenic Wetlands and World Birding Center is located at 714 Raul Longoria Rd. in Edinburg. For additional information, call 956-381-9922 or visit www.edinburgwbc. org.

Apr il 14 – Speer Memorial Library will hold a discussion of the book The Fault in Our Stars at 6:30 p.m. It will be held in the library’s Community Room. Everyone is welcome to attend and discuss the book. For more information, or to sign up for the book discussion, please call William Renner or Rose Alvarez at 580-8750 or 5808754. Speer Memorial Library is located at 12th and Kika De La Garza in Mission.

Apr il 18 – “Tales & Myths” at the Edinburg World Birding Center uncovers the truth about the way the world is defined in folk tales. The March topic covers wildflowers during an indoor presentation and show and tell followed by a story walk on the grounds from 2:30 to 4 p.m. Admission is $3 for adults; $2 for senior citizens, students, and children; and ages 5 and under are free. The EWBC is located at 714 S. Raul Longoria Rd. Call 381-9922 for information.

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

March 27, 2015

page 7A

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EXCELLENCE from pg 1A

trip.

“I really like (traveling) because I’m able to explain things better in the classroom because I have experience.

The students love to hear my stories about my travels,” the teacher of 15 years said. “Last summer I went to Costa Rica. I teach (about the) tropical rainforest, but I wanted to be able to experience it.”

Teaching is Luna’s second career. The former General Motors acquisitions analyst of 14 years ended up in Sharyland because her daughter enjoyed living in the Valley and didn’t want to continue moving around.

When Luna quit her job, she moved into education per her daughter’s suggestion.

“When I got into the classroom, I started noticing that I could make a difference in someone’s life,” Luna said “I was just amazed at how much impact I had on them. Then I realized ‘This is what I want to do.’”

Razo of Mission Jr. High also moved into teaching from a previous career – banking. The eighth-grade math teacher said he wanted to have an impact on the community and saw teaching as the best way to do so.

The teacher of five years grew up as a migrant in a single-parent home and was the first in his family to go to college. His mother had only a first grade education, and told him that education was his way to a better life.

He uses his own experiences to connect with his students, a vital aspect in his teaching formula.

“Possessing the gift of making students feel like they matter is priceless. Once they feel like they belong, then learning actually starts,” Razo said. “It goes beyond math; it’s teaching them about real life situations that I get to share through personal experiences.”

Priolo also stressed the importance of connecting with her students. At the Alternative Education Center, Priolo works with students that have had infractions of both a high and low level.

In addition, she and counselor Alfred Crixelle work after school hours with students who have substance abuse issues in the S.A.P.S. program. The program works as a support group with random weekly drug testing.

Priolo was initially a teacher at Sharyland North Jr. High and a tutor at the alternative center. But saw the need at the alternative center

ABOVE: H-E-B representatives surprise Nora Luna of Bentsen Elementary in Sharyland with a check for becoming a finalist for their Leadership elementary award. BELOW: Ann Marie Priolo of Sharyland Alternative Education Center became a finalist for H-E-B’s Lifetime Achievement award for secondary education and received a $1000 check.

Texas Legislature recognizes Palmview Mariachi as state champions

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his year has been quite the year for Mariachi Los Lobos from Palmview High School. During this February’s State MASBA (Mexican American School Board Members Associa-

tion) competition, the group received a second place rank that was later rectified to a first place and co-championship title.

Veterans of the annual contest (fifth consecutive ap-

MHS students to present research findings at Farmers Market

and came on as a full-time teacher for the secondary level students.

“What we’re trying to do is educate them as the person. The subject matter is important but not nearly as important as who they are as individuals,” she said. “They won’t care what you know unless they know that you care.”

Although she said she enjoys the nurturing aspect of her job most, and learning with the students, Priolo admits that it can be a grind.

“It’s hard to say that you enjoy a challenge because sometimes you feel like a total failure. There are days or periods when you feel like you’ve totally missed the mark,” the 28-year teacher said. “Then there are these other days when you get a chance to talk to the students or parents and you know that there is a difference in their life and it’s for the better.”

Sands equated teaching to building a house. If the foundation isn’t solid, the structure will soon fall apart.

That’s why he continues to teach at the elementary level.

He also strives to reach out to students on a personal level, beyond the typical school topics in the hall or on the playground. A music specialist, Sands tries to make his classroom a safe place for all students.

“When I was starting out as a music student, as a young student, obviously everyone else wanted to play baseball and kickball, but I needed to go practice the piano, so yes, I did have to stand up to some tough criticism,

some bullying if you will, especially through high school, but I knew what I wanted to do.”

Sands said the biggest reason he became a teacher was his love for music and learning. Now in his 30th year of teaching, he’s eyeing retirement when he plans to write a book on curriculum.

Over the years, Sands said, his teaching techniques have changed. Students are able to learn music concepts through GarageBand on iPads. Still, he has guitars, keyboards, recorders and even harmonicas in the classroom.

Music, Sands said, enhances humanity.

“I don’t like when I hear adults say, ‘I can’t play an instrument. I don’t know how to sing.’ Everyone can do something with music, even if it’s just enjoy it at a richer level,” Sands said. “I’m not a big fan of the audition. If you want to be in my groups, you can be in my groups.”

Each of the H-E-B Excellence in Education finalists were adamant about wanting to make a difference for their students and that being the reason they continue go to school every day. For Luna, the cash prize is a merely a perk in the grand scheme.

“The real award is the students. I have an impact on them and I have a chance to do it every single day,” Luna said. “I don’t know what it’s going to take them to, but I know a lot of them are going to go far because of my example.”

(Julie Silva contributed to this article.)

A

s part of the Rio Grande valley Proyecto Bienestar, Mission High School AP Human Geography freshman students will be presenting research on local environment and health concerns at the McAllen Farmers Market on Saturday, April 11 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The students will discuss their research on a variety of topics including pollution, sustainable communities, native species, exercise and

T

more. Students will offer their ideas and solutions that aim to improve the Rio Grande Valley region. Presentations will be made in English and Spanish. The event is free.

The Rio Grande Valley Proyecto Bienestar promotes our local environment and health concerns by spreading awareness and offering solutions.

The McAllen Farmers Market is located outside the McAllen Public Library at 4001 N. 23rd St.

pearance in the finals), Mariachi Los Lobos were honored by the House of Representatives of the 84th Texas Legislature in Austin on March 24 as the 6A Champions of the Texas High School State Mariachi Competition.

For this acknowledgement, Director Mayra Garcia and her mariachi students, traveled to the state capitol to receive a resolution and be recognized as the crowned 2015 state champions. During the visit, the young artists showcased their talent with a live performance at the rotunda while also helping celebrate March 24 as La Joya Independent School District Day at the capitol.

According to the resolution: “The members of the Palmview High School Mariachi Los Lobos have proven themselves one of the finest

See MARIACHI 11A

La Joya ISD middle school to be honored at FESTIBA

he University of Texas Pan American Festival of International Books and Arts (FESTIBA) is popularly known around the area for its week full of great entertainment, renowned speakers, and funfor-all activities. Thousands of students and locals attend the celebrations every year to support literacy and the arts.

As part of the festivities, the UTPA College of Arts and Humanities exclusively invites only a handful of valley schools to be honor-

ees during the Community Day celebration. This year, LJISD’s Lorenzo De Zavala Middle School was one of six schools selected for its students’ success in the Millionaire’s AR Reading Program.

With a student population of more than 700, De Zavala Middle School has acknowledged 120 millionaire readers, 17 double millionaires, and one triple millionaire.

As a whole, the campus has accomplished reading more than 476,723,196 words

during this school year alone. The love of reading is definitely flourishing at this La Joya school.

The event (originally scheduled for March 6) will take place Friday, March 27, at 8 p.m. at the Edinburg City Hall Courtyard, where a group of 20 top-reader students (accompanied by Principal Magda Villarreal and librarian Vickie Flores) will walk the main stage to receive their certificate of recognition.

page 10A

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March 27, 2015

March 27, 2015

YOUNGS from pg 3A

Phan’s father prayed to their ancestors to tell them it was OK for Phan to leave “with this old white man,” Doug joked.

Cindy knew when she was in Vietnam having other Americans around her gave her fresh air from an unfamiliar culture. She aimed to do the same thing for Phan when she came to the United States.

Cindy made the Young’s house a safe place for Phan to come on weekends and be herself.

“This wasn’t Vietnamese, but it was people who loved Vietnamese,” Cindy said.

Phan came over on weekends and during breaks at the school, but the longer she was at UTPA, she made friends with three other international students and came over less, but the family’s bond grew. They went on family vacations, and Phan met the Young’s son, Keith, and his family in Florida over a Christmas holiday.

‘American father’ Phan’s family always has been supportive of the relationship. Doug recalled in 2011 meeting the family at a restaurant and through a translator, Phan’s father thanked him for being her “American father.”

“That rocked me back in my heels for a man to say that,” Doug said.

Phan said she once told the Youngs she wanted to take care of them when they grow old.

“They don’t have to give up anything and me neither,” Phan said. “They regarded me as their child and that’s quite special to me. To me, it feels like when I’m far from home, I still have a home.”

Under the student visa,

MARIACHI

from pg 7A

ensembles in Texas, and these talented young musicians may take pride in this outstanding accomplishment. The House of Representatives of the 84th Texas Legislature herby congratulate the Palmview High School Mariachi los Lobos on being named 6A champion at the 2015 MASBA/TAME Texas High School Mariachi competition and extend to the group’s members sincere best wishes for continued success.”

COMING ATTRACTIONS from pg 2A

Verde kicks off at 7:30 a.m. with a Run Wild 5K. A full list of shows and programs can be found on the Quinta Mazatlan website at www.quintamazatlan.com.

April 22-26 · Disney on Ice will be in the Rio Grande Valley at State Farm Arena with their newest production spinning off the hit animated movie “Frozen.” Performances will run for five days with varying show times. Prices range from $20 to $75. Times and tickets are available online at ticketmaster.com or by calling 800-745-3000.

Weekly · Catholic War Veterans Post #1065 in Mission invites the public to their “Get Away Thursday Dance” held every Thursday evening, from 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. It is located at 500 W. Business 83.

Music by the Electro Band provides country western, Tejano, the Oldies, cumbias and more. No cover charge. Call 583-5961 or email Doodrey@netzero.com for more information.

To see the complete Events Calendar for the coming weeks, go to www.ptrgv.com.

Phan could stay an additional year after she graduated because she got a job in her field of study. She and two of her friends got jobs as lecturers in English as a second language at UTPA. When Phan left the U.S., Ngo came, “So they were never here competing with one another,” Cindy said.

And Doug said the affection between Ngo and the Youngs is the same as with Trang. When Ngo announced she was getting married, Cindy jokingly asked if they were invited to the wedding. Ngo turned stone-faced, they remembered, and said of course they’re invited.

“You’re my American parents,” she said.

And when her father died before the wedding, Ngo asked them to be in the wedding as part of her family.

Family in Vietnam is a different concept, Doug said.

“To them, there’s no such thing as having too many parents,” Doug said.

‘Thay’ When Phan returned to Vietnam, an assistant dean at the Hue University told her to consider getting her Ph.D. in something besides English because there already were a lot of English doctorates at the university.

Phan said she considered going to a university in the United Kingdom, and the Youngs offer to pay for a third of the costs.

She emailed “Thay,” her nickname for Doug meaning teacher, and asked for advice.

He suggested educational technology, which was his field of study. Phan had taken a class in it as a graduate student and had considered changing her major to it before.

“My real father in Vietnam said, ‘If you have to decide between U.K. and U.S, I would support U.S. more because of Doug and Cindy,” Phan said.

In her culture, it’s OK for someone to have more than one set of parents, Phan said.

And she said the Youngs know Vietnam culture and respect it.

The Youngs have a son,

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but they said they soon found out having a daughter is very different from having a son.

Phan is in Houston getting her Ph.D in educational technology and recently got her license in a car. The first time she drove to the Valley, both the Youngs were nervous.

“He was beside himself,” Cindy said. “And he said, ‘I don’t know what’s wrong with me.’ I said ‘It’s because it’s a daughter.’”

If their son, Keith, broke down on the side of the road, Doug said he would have told him to figure it out. If Phan had broken down, he would have told her to lock the doors, he’s coming.

And for his part, Keith welcomed his new sister, Doug said. Phan said he invited her to his daughter’s graduation ceremony, telling her his daughter has fond memories when she first came to visit in 2008 and they went to Disneyworld.

After the adoption ceremony, Phan described her day to her Vietnamese parents in a long email. She sent Doug a translated version of her father’s reply stating it was an honor for Phan.

“I also believe this happened because the way we Asians and Vietnamese carry and regard family values in our hearts,” he wrote. “But I also want you to be thoughtful about the way you treat Thay and Cindy. Just imagine when a married couple has a child, one of them might feel neglected if the other gave too much attention to the child, so it’s your responsibility to take care of them equally.”

It choked Doug up to read the words.

“Here he is, a man with a fifth-grade education, there was a war going on. Trang’s mother has a first-grade education and taught herself to read and write. Now they have a daughter who is a year away from having a Ph.D.,” Doug said. “It’s really quite remarkable the job they did in raising her.”

Formal adoption Doug came up with the idea to formally adopt Phan and Ngo after a trip to Alabama in December to vis-

it his sister. Her daughter lives across the street and came over to introduce her most recent adopted child, an 18-year-old girl from the Philippines. He’d never heard of adult adoptions, but most states allow it.

When Doug told Phan about the idea, he said her shriek was so loud it hurt his ears. Ngo, too, said if she were in the United States, she’d want to go through the process. Ngo is now married with a 10-month-old baby in Vietnam.

“The law is upfront, and it says this is primarily for emotional purposes, there’s not any real legal benefit to it, and it doesn’t change immigration status,” Doug said. “It’s just saying to the world, “She’s

not only like my daughter, she is my daughter.”

The Youngs have even given Phan’s boyfriend, a Vienamese-born French citizen, their stamp of approval. They’ve said they’ll head back to Vietnam for the wedding should the two decide to get married.

And Doug had to rescind his condition of American schooling only if Phan went back to Vietnam. She took that promise seriously, Cindy said.

page 11A

“I hadn’t understood what I was really saying,” Doug said. “I had no idea that she was going to turn into this daughter.”

“I think when you are given the responsibility of taking care of a being – most of the time it’s a baby, but not always – in caring for something, then you get protective, and that is reciprocated and appreciated, and it turns into love,” Cindy said. “That’s what happened.”

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Mission prekinder students are in the classroom for three hours a day. Full-day pre-K will allow teachers more time on instruction and concepts needed by the time they reach kindergarten. Students are required to know their colors, shapes, numbers up to 20 and letter names, shapes and sounds when they ender kinder. Progress Times photo by Lea Victoria Juarez

March 27, 2015

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HOSPITAL DISTRICT

PRE-K from pg 1A

since it was cut in 2011.

As of now, Mission’s halfday pre-K has two cohorts – one in the morning, the other in the afternoon – with a district total of 747 students. Under the Texas Education Code, children who are non-English speakers and come from low-income families qualify for full-day prekindergarten. Lopez said he anticipates an increase of anywhere from 150 to 200 students because of open enrollment.

“The reason why we did it for all is because...we’ve got families that are in the bubble,” Lopez said. “These parents are doing all the right things, they’re working, some of them two or three

shifts to make ends meet and because of that they don’t qualify for pre-K. Those students still need it.”

The extended day will not only give teachers more instruction time, but also allow students to experience the school environment in all its entirety. Because there is only time for about three hours of rubric, students are limited to one room.

“For half day, they don’t have PE, we do the music in the classroom for them. In the full day they actually go out to the library, gym, music room,” said Norma Lopez, a 12-year MCISD prekindergarten teacher. “I think they feel like they are more part of the school and not just confined to the classroom.”

As both a kindergarten and pre-K teacher, Norma Lopez said she has seen the difference in skill sets with those who attend full-day and half-day programs. By the time a student enters kindergarten, they need to know letter names, sounds, high-frequency words, shapes, colors and numbers up to 20. With full-day pre-K, the teacher can set aside enrichment periods to further develop the students and allow them more time to use the provided technology.

“There’s just going to be so much opportunities for us to work with them and give them ample time to learn the skills that they need to acquire in pre-K,” Norma Lopez said. They’ll leave pre-K with a stronger foundation that would help them in kinder and the subsequent years.”

a long way in keeping students here.”

Creation of a hospital district was first approved by the Legislature in 1959 with the 10-cent cap. At the time, only a few counties in the state could create one. Then, when the rest of the state was given authority to create hospital districts in 1962, the max was set at 75 cents. Hidalgo’s 10-cent cap was not affected.

The 8-cent tax rate was expected to raise about $20 million annually, $13 million toward indigent care, $5 million for the medical school and $2 million for administrative costs.

Currently, Hidalgo County must set aside 8 percent of its own budget to send to the state. This year, the county budgeted $6 million, and the commissioners court has said it would consider dropping the county tax rate the 2.5 cents it takes to raise $6 million.

At the committee hearing, Rep. Jonathan Stickland, R-Bedford, said he, too, had received phone calls with 956 area codes from people against the bill. He asked Edinburg City Manager Ramiro Garza, who attended the meeting in support of the bill, if Edinburg’s full council was for it. Garza affirmed it was. Stickland said he got 25-30 phone calls from Edinburg.

He wanted to ensure after a year, the county didn’t have the authority to raise the cap back up to 75 cents.

Earlier, Tinderholt noted the bill states that the state’s tax code supersedes the bill, so if the state allows for a 75-cent cap, that stands to reason the 25-cent cap could be eliminated.

“I’m telling you in good faith that I want us to get something that your local officials will consider a success and also address some of the concerns that we have,” Stickland told Guerra. “But I will tell you I do have some concerns about some of the stuff in here in a very serious way.”

from pg 1A

Committee Chair Garnet Coleman, D-Houston, emphasized it was a local bill.

“This is the hometown and this is their opportunity,” Coleman said. “This is a decision made locally by the county, and all the delegation from Hidalgo County supports this bill.”

And Rep. Dustin Burrows, R-Lubbock, pointed out if the Legislature doesn’t approve the bill, the tax cap remains at 75 cents and an election could be called again under the higher tax cap.

Coleman said they weren’t going to vote the bill out of the committee that day, but he said they might considering offering a substitute to the bill.

Tinderholt said with all the phone calls his office has received, he just wants to make sure the committee is protecting the people in Guerra’s district. It takes 50 voters to put the healthcare district on the ballot, and several thousand to call for a rollback election to lower a tax rate.

“It seems that’s pretty weighted in favor of going one way over another,” Tinderholt said.

Guerra said he’d support tweaking the bill with a substitute to address some of the committee member’s concerns. He said he just wants to make sure the cap gets lowered.

Last session, Guerra said he succeeded in obtaining an 1115 waiver, so federal funds could be filtered through the county, rather than a hospital district, but it was only for two years.

“We have more and more businesses coming in, but along with that, there’s also a bigger indigent population,” Guerra said. “Again, it would be up to the voters, but without being able to withdraw that 1115 money, I’m afraid that many, many of the healthcare needs would go unserved, and that would be very, very detrimental to our area.”

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March 27, 2015

obituaries

Rodolfo ‘Rudy’ Alaniz Sr.

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ISSION/AUSTIN – Rodolfo (Rudy) Alaniz Sr. passed away peacefully at his home in Oak Hill, March 10, 2015. He was born in Mission, in the South Texas Rio Grande Valley on September 21, 1928, the fifth of 13 children.

Rudy grew up in Mission where he sold newspapers, shined shoes and delivered telegrams while attending the local high school.

He enlisted in the Army on October 1946 at Ft. Houston, after the death of his older brother Ricardo who was killed in action while serving in WWII. Several years later, Rudy escorted Ricardo’s body back to Mission, Texas for burial where he presented his mother with his brother’s burial flag. He also served in Japan during the Occupation and Reconstruction at the end of WWII. Rudy went on to serve in the Korean War where he received a Purple Heart for wounds he sustained in action. He later enlisted in the Air Force where he served the remaining 22 years of his military career.

Rudy received many military medals while serving his country but one of the highlights of his career was touring the Friendship 7 capsule through Central and South America. This was the first American spacecraft to orbit the earth piloted by John Glenn.

He served a second career with the Postal Service, working in the downtown and South Austin Post Offices, retiring in 1989. He was a life member of Mil-

itary Order of the Purple Heart. He was also a life long member of St. Ignatius Catholic Church in South Austin were he served as an Usher and Greeter.

Rudy’s greatest accomplishment was being an outstanding and devoted husband, father and grandfather. His friends and family will truly miss him.

He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Gloria Araguz Alaniz; children, Rosemary Alaniz Vidaurri, Rudy Alaniz Jr., Gloria Alaniz Villasenor, and John Alaniz; 12 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

His parents, Roque and Sara Alaniz, preceded him in death.

Rodolfo was laid to rest in Austin, Texas with full military honors on Monday, March 16, 2015, surrounded by friends and family.

Rebecca Flores OS EBANOS - Rebecca Flores, 85, passed away on Tuesday, March 24, 2015, at Rio

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Notices

Idolina Alanis MISSION – A funeral mass for Idolina Alanis was held March 20 at San Martin de Porres Catholic Church in Alton. Burial followed at Lord & I Cemetery in Palmview.

Hector Manuel Bernal SULLIVAN CITY - Hector Manuel Bernal, 61 died Saturday, March 21, 2015 at Mission Hospital.

Graveside services were held March 24 at Sullivan City Cemetery in Sullivan City.

Olivia Cantu MISSION - Funeral services for Olivia Cantu were held March 23 at Funeraria del Angel in Mission. Burial followed at Valley Memorial Gardens in Mission Gregoria Escobedo MISSION - Gregoria Escobedo, 80, died Sunday, March 15, 2015, at her residence in Mission.

A mass was held March 19 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Mission.

Ofelia Garza PENITAS - Ofelia Garza,

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Grande Regional Medical Center in McAllen, Texas.

She was born on April 21, 1929 in Mission, Texas to Octaviano Garza and Santos Flores.

She is survived by her children, Rosario Salinas, Gilberto Flores Jr., Guadalupe Flores, Roberto Flores, Melly Garza, Tina Campos, Irma Luna, and Hector Flores; siblings, Roberto Garza, Ruben Garza, Chano Garza, Ramiro Garza, Rodolfo Garza, Mage Cantu, Licha Ochoa, and Fela Garza; 21 grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Gilberto Flores Sr.; son, Gustavo Flores; and brothers, Daniel Garza, David Garza, and Dario Garza.

A funeral service will be at 10 a.m. Friday, March 27, at Puerta de Salvacion in La Joya. Interment will follow to Los Ebanos Cemetery in Los Ebanos.

Arturo Gaytán ISSION - Arturo Gaytán, 80, passed away on Sunday, March 22, 2015. He was

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80, died Thursday, March 19, 2015, at Rio Grande Regional Hospital in McAllen.

Services were held March 21 at The Lord and I Memorial Chapel. Interment followed at the Lord and I Cemetery in Palmview.

Federico Deleon Gonzalez PALMVIEW - Federico Deleon Gonzalez, 64, died Sunday, March 22, 2015, at Paxvilla Hospice Care.

Tiburcio Gonzalez MISSION - Tiburcio Gonzalez, 79, died Sunday, March 22, 2015, at Edinburg Regional Medical Center.

Services were held on March 25 at Funeraria del Angel in Mission. Burial followed at Palm Valley Memorial Gardens in Pharr.

Eusebio Morales MISSION - Funeral services for Eusebio Morales were held March 26 at Funeraria Del Angel in Mission. Burial followed at Valley Memorial Gardens Cemetery.

Yolanda Moreno MISSION - Yolanda Moreno, 62, died Wednes-

born to Rodolfo and Juanita Gaytán, Sr. in Kingsville.

After graduating from Mission High School, he enlisted in the US Navy and was a torpedo man mate on the U.S.S. Radford.

He is survived by his wife, Guadalupe Gaytán of Mission; children, Alicia Gaytán, Elena Gaytán Woolstrum, Florencio Gaytán, Esmeralda Gaytán Gregg, Israel Gaytán, and Juan Gaytán, Jr.; sister, Elma Gaytán Snell; brothers, Rodolfo Gaytán, Jr., Rene Gaytán, and Ramiro Gaitan; 14 grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and brothers, Reynaldo Gaytán, Juan Gaytán, and Jose Leal.

Services were held March 25 at Flores Funeral Home followed by the burial at Laurel Hill Cemetery in Mission.

Patricia Morales A JOYA - Patricia Morales, 49, passed away on Sunday, March 22, 2015, at Comfort House in McAllen. She was born on August 24, 1965, in McAl-

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day, March 25, 2015, at Mission Regional Medical Center in Mission.

Stephen Radle MISSION - Stephen Radle, 67, died Friday, March 20, 2015, at Amara Hospice Facility in Edinburg.

Jose Natividad Sanchez MISSION - Jose Natividad Sanchez, 88, died Sunday, March 22, 2015, at McAllen Medical Center.

Cremation services were held March 25 at Val Verde Memorial Gardens in Donna.

Zenaida Valdez MISSION - Zenaida Valdez 67, died Saturday, March 21, 2015 at Knapp Medical Center in Weslaco.

Services were held March 25 at Iglesia Bethel Asamblea de Dios de Mexico in Palmview. Burial followed at Valley Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Mission.

David Young MISSION - David Young, 74, died Saturday, March 21, 2015, at McAllen Medical Center.

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.

Palmview Crossing Plaza 212-1594/424-1984

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

ER MAE EPQOU IW PMENT

Commercial Lawn Equipment “Since 1954”

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

KING, GUERRA, DAVIS & GARCIA

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

IMPLEMENT COMPANY, INC. MISSION 585-1618

  

 



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

 

len, to Maximiliano Morales and Elodia Morales.

She is survived by her parents; and sister, Edna Morales.

Services were held March 24 at Lord & I Memorial Chapel in Penitas, Texas. Cremation services followed.

Manuela G. Tijerina ISSION - Manuela G. Tijerina, 89, passed away Thursday, March 19, 2015 in McAllen. She was born on June 16, 1925 in Mexico to Luis and Maria de Jesus Garza.

She is survived by her children, Maria Eugenia, Dora Alicia Tijerina de Cano, Irma Delia, Jose Manuel, Luis Alberto, Romulo Javier, Gloria Elvia and Rosa Elia Tijerina de Martinez; brothers, Pedro Garza, Epifanio Garza; sister, Rosa Mena; 13 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Jose Maria

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page 13A

Tijerina and her parents.

Services were held March 21 at Funeraria del Angel in Mission. Interment followed at Valley Memorial Gardens in Mission.

Eulalia Zamora ISSION - Eulalia Zamora, 90, died Thursday, March 19, 2015, at Solara Hospital in McAllen.

She is survived by her daughters, Yolanda L. Zamora, Dalila Y. Barker, Sonia S. Aguilar, and Linda Maribel De La Rosa Jr.; her brothers and sisters Ramon and Reynaldo Ruiz, Elidia Ruiz, Maria De La Rosa, Esmeralda Torres, Eliza Cantu; four grandchildren; one great-grandson; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Pablo Zamora Jr. Services were held March 23 at 7pm at Ric Brown Family Funeral Home in Mission. Cremation services followed.

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theclassifieds page 14A

March 27, 2015

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120mph charisal, 5,050 miles, ex2012 YAMAHA cellent condition, MAJESTY 400CC $3,950, 429-244scooter, 55mpg, 7955.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

autos

Notice is hereby given that original Letters Testamentary for the Estate of Johanna Marie De Forest, Deceased, were issued on February 11, 2015, under Docket No. P-36,682, pending in the Probate Court of Hidalgo County, Texas, to Belinda K. Arce. Claims may be presented in care of the attorney for the estate, addressed as follows: Representative, Estate of Johanna Marie De Forest, Deceased c/o Ryan C. Solis 3900 N. 10th Street, Suite 915 McAllen, TX 78501 (956) 686-9600 Phone (956) 686-7033 Facsimile All persons having claims against this estate, which is currently being administered, are required to present them within the time and in the manner prescribed by law.

DATED March 20, 2015.

Ryan C. Solis, Attorney for Applicant NOTICE TO CREDITORS Notice is hereby given that original Letters Testamentary for the Estate of Donald Dean De Forest, Deceased, were issued on February 11, 2015, under Docket No. P-36,681, pending in the Probate Court of Hidalgo County, Texas, to Belinda K. Arce. Claims may be presented in care of the attorney for the estate, addressed as follows: Representative, Estate of Donald Dean De Forest, Deceased c/o Ryan C. Solis 3900 N. 10th Street, Suite 915 McAllen, TX 78501 (956) 686-9600 Phone (956) 686-7033 Facsimile All persons having claims against this estate, which is currently being administered, are required to present them within the time and in the manner prescribed by law.

DATED March 20, 2015.

Ryan C. Solis, Attorney for Applicant

boats4sale

21FT FISHING BOAT with 150hp Johnson Ocean Runner engine with new jack plate. New custom built welded aluminum trailer. Will consider good golf

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cart partial trade $10,500, best offer considered.

956499-5832 Harlingen.

cemetery

VALLEY MEMORIAL GARDENS, Sec. K, spaces 1-4,

ORDINANCE NO. 4203 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MISSION, TEXAS AMENDING SECTIONS 1.2, 1.42(3), 1.43(3), 1.44(3), 1.44A(3), 1.45(3), 1.46(3), AND 1.56 OF “APPENDIX A – ZONING” OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES TO DEFINE AND INCLUDE “MOBILE FOOD UNIT” AS A CONDITIONAL USE WITHIN THE C-2, C-3, C-4, C-5, I-1, AND I-2 ZONING DISTRICTS; PROVIDING FOR REQUIRED CODIFICATION; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND PROVIDING A PUBLICATION DATE READ, CONSIDERED AND PASSED, this the 23rd day of March, 2015.

Norberto Salinas, Mayor ATTEST: Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

$1,800 ea. OBO, 956-467-2100.

fifthwheels

2006 OUTBACK 32’ FRLD5, 2 slides, non-smoking, well maintained, outdoor stove unit, awnings, large canopy, sound system, Chimney Park, $12,000, call Lloyd 956-3781441.

Oracion Al Espiritu Santo Espiritu Santo, tu que me aclaras todo, que iluminas todos los caminos para que yo alcance mi ideal, tu que me das el don divino de perdonar y olvidar el mal que me hacen y que en todos los instantes de mi vida estas conmigo, yo quiero en este corto dialogo agradecerte por todo y confirmar una vez mas que nunca quiero separarme de ti por mayor que sea la ilusion material.

Deseo estar contigo y todos mis seres queridos en la gracia perpetua. Gracias por tu misericordia para conmigo y los mios.

La persona debera rezar esta oracion 3 dias sequidos sin decir el pedido. dentro de tres dias sera alcanzada la gracia por mas deficil que sea. (Publicar en cuanto se recibia la gracia).

Agradece gracia alcanzada.

T.R.

PUBLIC NOTICE

The Mission City Council will hold a Regular Meeting on April 13, 2015 at 4:30 p.m. at the City Hall Council Chambers, 1201 East 8th Street, Mission, Texas in order to consider the following: Rezoning: Lots 1 & 2, Block 194, Oblate Addition, from (R-1) Single Family Residential to (C-1) Office Building; Rezoning: Lot 7, Block 106, Mission Original Townsite Subdivision, from (R-1) Single Family Residential to (C-1) Office Building; and Rezoning: The North 938.74’ of Lot A, BL Millers Resubdivision of Lots 16 – 20, Block 4, Mission Groves Estates, from (AO-I) Agricultural Open Interim to (C3) General Business If a zoning is amended during the public hearing, it shall be pursuant to the City of Mission’s Amendatory Zone Policy Statement. Anyone interested is invited to attend.

Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

Make it happen, we’re located at 1217 N. Conway in Mission, TX Come on in! Our hours of operation are Mon. - Fri. 8 - 5 p.m.

If you can’t drop by, mail it! P.O. Box 399, Mission, TX 78573 Order by phone 585-4893 with a major credit card.

The deadline to get your classified in is Tuesday at 3 p.m.

1998 KING OF the Road 30’ 5th wheel, ultra slide, excellent condition, Casa Del Sol Site 237, Moore 612-803-5582, $7,500.

forrent

CONDO 55+, 2ND person 18+, fully furnished, beautiful view to Shary Golf Course, 2bd, PRAYER TO HOLY SPIRIT

Holy Spirit, you make me see everything and you showed me the way to reach my ideal. You who gave me the dear gift to forgive the wrong that is done to me and you who are in all the angles of my life with me. I in this short dialogue want to thank you for everything, and confirm once and for all that I never want to be separated from you no matter how great the material desire may be. I want to be with you and my loved ones in your perpetual glory amen. Thank you for your love towards me and my loved ones. Say this prayer 3 times a day for 3 days without asking for your wish. On the 3rd day your wish will come true, no matter how great the miracle may be.

Publication must be promised

M.E.R.

1 1/2b, long/short term, 956-8448168 or 956-4322437.

LEGAL NOTICE Application has been made with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission for a Wine and Beer Retailer’s Permit by Christine Alaniz dba Ranch House Burgers II, to be located at 409 N. Bryan Rd STE 104-105, Mission, Hidalgo County, Texas, 78572.

ORDINANCE NO. 4201 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MISSION, TEXAS GRANTING A REZONING A 0.06 ACRE OUT OF LOT 13, EXPRESSWAY BUSINESS PARK PHASE VIII, FROM I-1 (LIGHT INDUSTRIAL) TO C-4 (HEAVY COMMERCIAL) READ, CONSIDERED AND PASSED, this the 23rd day of March, 2015.

Norberto Salinas, Mayor ATTEST: Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

PUBLIC NOTICE

The Mission Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a Regular Meeting on April 8, 2015 at 5:00 p.m. at the City Hall Council Chambers, 1201 East 8th Street, Mission, Texas in order to consider the following: Rezoning: Lot 24, Block 2, Erdahl Subdivision, from (R1) Single Family Residential to (C-3) General Business; Rezoning: Lots 88 & 89, Mayberry Plaza, Unit No. 3, from (C-2) Neighborhood Commercial to (C-3) General Business; Rezoning: A 12.11 acre tract of land out of Lot 304, John H. Shary Subdivision, from (AO-I) Agricultural Open Interim to (R-3) Multi-Family Residential; Rezoning: 1.00 acre out of Lot 235, John H. Shary Subdivision, from (R-1) Single Family Residential to (C-3) General Business; and Rezoning: Lots 1-3, Boriquen Subdivision, from (R-1) Single Family Residential to (C-1) Office Building If a zoning is amended during the public hearing, it shall be pursuant to the City of Mission’s Amendatory Zone Policy Statement. Anyone interested is invited to attend.

Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

theclassifieds March 27, 2015

buy • sell • trade • rent • hire

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

helpwanted

TURISTA PROPANE IS looking for Bobtail drivers, 1 year experience needed, will train PRAYER TO HOLY SPIRIT

Holy Spirit, you make me see everything and you showed me the way to reach my ideal. You who gave me the dear gift to forgive the wrong that is done to me and you who are in all the angles of my life with me. I in this short dialogue want to thank you for everything, and confirm once and for all that I never want to be separated from you no matter how great the material desire may be. I want to be with you and my loved ones in your perpetual glory amen. Thank you for your love towards me and my loved ones. Say this prayer 3 times a day for 3 days without asking for your wish. On the 3rd day your wish will come true, no matter how great the miracle may be.

Publication must be promised

M.E.R.

page 15A

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for propane license, please call our office at (956)5811710.

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May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved and preserved throughout the world now and forever. Sacred Heart of Jesus, pray for us. St. Jude, worker of miracles, pray for us. Say this prayer 9 days, 9 times a day. On the 8th day, your prayer will be answered.

I t h a s never been known to fail. Publication must be promised. My prayers have been answered.

M.A.S.H.

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miscellaneous

MATERIAL BID S O L I C I TAT I O N : DWSRF Waterline Project - Palmview, Texas. The 5125 Company is solic-

ORDINANCE NO. 4202 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MISSION, TEXAS GRANTING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT TO CONSTRUCT A NEW TELECOMMUNICATIONS TOWER ON PROPERTY ZONED C-4 (HEAVY COMMERCIAL), A 0.06 ACRE OUT OF LOT 13, EXPRESSWAY BUSINESS PARK PHASE VIII READ, CONSIDERED AND PASSED, this the 23rd day of March, 2015.

Norberto Salinas, Mayor ATTEST: Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

NOTICE TO PUBLIC CITY OF MISSION COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM In accordance with the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the City of Mission hereby announces a public hearing regarding a substantial program and budget amendment to the FY 2014-2015 CDBG Action Plan. The Public hearing will be held on Tuesday, March 31, 2015 at 5:00 pm at the Leal Elementary, 318 S. Los Ebanos Rd., Mission, Texas.

The Proposed Substantial Program and Budget Amendment consists of the elimination of an activity originally described in the Action Plan FY 2014-2015.

The elimination of the activity funding $100,000 to Habitat for Humanity would allow those funds to be reallocated to the city’s Housing Assistance Program.

Additional funding for this activity will provide housing assistance for approximately two additional eligible low income residents within the City of Mission. Further, Habitat for Humanity will be deleted and the $100,000 would increase funding for Housing Reconstruction to $611,742. The program and budget amendment is requested in order to address the need for housing assistance for thirteen (13) qualified homeowners. This proposed activity is eligible through Rehab; Single Unit Residential 570.202 (b) (6).

All interested agencies and citizens are encouraged to attend and participate in the public hearing. This public hearing is part of the Community Development Block Grant Program Citizen Participation process and complies with program requirements. For more information, please contact the Community Development Office at (956) 580-8670. Written comments will be accepted until April 27, 2015, and may be forwarded to Jo Anne Longoria, Community Development Director, 1201 E. 8th Street, Mission, Texas 78572.

PROBATE NO. P-36, 210 CITATION BY PUBLICATION ************* THE STATE OF TEXAS THE UNKNOWN HEIRS OF ESTATE OF ROLANDO FRANCISCO BARRERA DECEASED: On the 12th day of March, 2015, RAMIRO HUMBERTO BARRERA filed an Application Determination of Heirship in a proceeding styled the ESTATE OF ROLANDO FRANCISCO BARRERA DECEASED, and bearing Probate Case Number P-36, 210, in the Probate Court of Hidalgo County, Texas.

The Court will hear the aforesaid Application for the Determination of Heirship at 10:00 A.M. on the first Monday after the expiration of ten (10) days from the date this citation is published, at the County Courthouse in Edinburg, Texas.

All persons interested in the aforesaid estate are commanded to appear at or before the time set for said hearing by filing a written contest or answer to the Application for the Determination of Heirship should they desire to oppose or contest it. Said writter contest or answer shall be filed in the office of the County Clerk of Hidalgo County, Texas, in Edinburg, Texas.

The officer serving this citation shall, in compliance with the law, serve it by publication once in a newspaper of general circulation in this, the county in which such proceeding is pending, for not less than ten (10) days before the return day hereof, exclusive of the day of publication and the date of publication said newspaper bears shall be the day of publication.

If this citation is not served withing 90 days after the date of issuance, it shall be returned unserved.

ISSUED UNDER MY HAND AND THE SEAL OF SAID COURT at office in Edinburg, Texas, this the 12th day of March, 2015.

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March 27, 2015

March 27, 2015

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PIONEER HIGH’S WINFREE BRINGS HOME THE

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By Luciano Guerra t first glance Sharyland Pioneer High student Alexandra Winfree is your typical teenage girl. Knowing she was about to have her picture taken during first period Tuesday, she applied her makeup and fixed her hair just like any other teenage girl would.

However, there is something about Winfree that makes her unlike any other girl at Pioneer High and unlike pretty

much any other girl in the state. Winfree is a two-time powerlifting state champion.

Winfree is just one of eight Lady Diamondbacks that qualified for the Texas High School Women’s Powerlifting Association’s (THSWPA) state meet in Corpus Christi last week.

While winning a gold medal was what each of the 212 competitors at the state meet were out to do, Winfree was out to do something that has never been done before – win

GOLD

back-to-back state powerlifting championships in two different weight classes and for two different schools.

As a junior last year, Winfree won the first girls powerlifting state gold medal in Sharyland High School history when she squatted, bench pressed and deadlifted a total of 800 lbs. to not only take the gold medal but to also tie the state deadlifting

record in the 123-lb. weight class by lifting 365 lbs.

Now in her senior year, not only did Winfree choose to transfer to Pioneer High School but she also lost enough weight to drop down to the 114-lb. weight class.

“I felt that I’d have a better chance of winning a second gold medal if I competed in the 114-lb. weight class,” explained Winfree. “As for transferring to Pioneer, it’s like a new beginning for me.

Also, I wanted to give being the first state champion at Pioneer High School a shot.

I saw it as a chance to make school history.”

With the record she tied last year still intact, Winfree is now a state record holder in two different weight classes thanks to her 365 lb. deadlift this year. That lift broke the previous deadlift record in the 114-lb. weight class of 355 lbs. Winfree’s best lifts in the squat and the bench press were 305 lbs. and 145 lbs. respectively for a total of 815 lbs.

ABOVE: Two-time state powerlifting champion Alexandra Winfree displays some of the medals she has won over the last four years.

LEFT: Pioneer’s Yuliana Gonzalez, Alexandra Winfree (seated), Lizette Guerrero, Ashley Garza, Daniela Alfaro and Avery Coronado were six of the Lady Diamondbacks’ eight qualifiers at the state powerlifting meet last week. (Nora Monie and Monica Garcia not pictured.)

Progress Times photos by Luciano Guerra

Winfree was not the only Lady Diamondback to bring a state powerlifting medal home last week. Nora Monie placed fourth and Ashley Garza placed fifth, both in the 165-lb. weight class.

As a two-time state qualifier, and now a state medalist, Garza actually had to be pushed into joining the sport in the first place.

“I was in P.E and my coach really wanted me to get into powerlifting,” Garza said. “I didn’t want to because I thought it was a guy’s sport, but he really pushed me so I decided to give it a try. After that I fell in love with powerlifting and I’ve been doing it ever since.”

Garza’s best lifts at the state meet were 320 lbs. in the squat, 155 lbs. in the bench press and 360 lbs. in the deadlift for a total of 835 lbs. Monie’s best lifts were 340 lbs. squat, 130 lbs. bench press and 370 lbs. deadlift for a total of 840 lbs.

Other state qualifiers from

Pioneer High were Yuliana Gonzalez (sixth - 97 lbs.), Daniela Alfaro (seventh 165 lbs.), Monica Garcia (eighth – 181 lbs.), Avery Coronado (10th - 165 lbs.) and Lizette Guerrero (BO 132 lbs.).

Sharyland High school had five girls compete at the state meet with one medalist while Veterans Memorial High had its first-ever state qualifier this year. The Lady Rattlers’ Bryanna Ramirez placed fourth in the 148-lb. weight class to medal while Bea Uribe placed ninth (132 lbs.), Amanda Rodriguez placed 11th (114 lbs.) and Kimberly Kelly and Brissa Ramirez both bombed out of their respective weight classes.

Veterans Memorial’s Victoria Olivarez placed 14th in the 123-lb. weight class as the Lady Patriots’ sole qualifier at the state meet.

As a team, Pioneer placed sixth out of 78 teams and Sharyland placed 22nd.

Lady Eagles go three for three at state

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By Luciano Guerra ission High School’s Vaneliy Guerrero thought her powerlifting career was over before the season even began. She suffered a major injury to her right knee during a wrestling match and it was the kind of injury that should’ve made it impossible for her to compete in powerlifting this season.

Guerrero was not about to let that happen.

“I tore my ACL and my meniscus in district wrestling,” explained Guerrero.

“It was during my last match for third place. The doctors wanted to take out my meniscus and replace it with a new one right away, but there’s a certain amount of

time that you have to wait to recover from that surgery and I knew that if I had that done I would miss the entire powerlifting season. That’s why I decided to wait until after powerlifting was over to have the surgery done.”

As it turns out Guerrero made the right decision. Not only was she able to powerlift without her meniscus, but she won the silver medal at the Texas High School Women’s Powerlifting Association’s (THSWPA) state meet in Corpus Christi last week.

“I was nervous and scared at the same time,” said Guerrero about competing at the state meet. “I was scared of bombing out. I came super close to doing that at the regional meet. But when I found out that I had placed

second, I was so proud of myself. The fact that I was able to overcome my knee injury, which was a huge obstacle, and still medal at state made it all that much more meaningful.”

Guerrero was not the only member of the Mission High girls powerlifting team that medaled at Corpus last week. All three of the Lady Eagles that qualified for state medaled.

Guerrero’s teammates Sally Ochoa and Estephany Gonzalez placed second and third respectively in their weight classes to make it three-for-three for the Lady Eagles at the state meet.

Ochoa in the 181-lb. weight class and Gonzalez in the 132-lb. weight class.

“I was really happy and

excited when I found out that I had medaled at state,” said Gonzalez. “While I wasn’t expecting to place at regionals, I was still disappointed when I didn’t medal. As a result I didn’t think I’d do too well at state.

“After my squat I was in eighth place,” added Gonzalez. “That was when Coach (Roy) Pena told me that I’d have to bench press 145 lbs. if I wanted to move up in the rankings and possibly medal.

So he got that into my head and that’s what I did.”

As a junior last year Ochoa failed to even qualify for regionals. This year, she not only qualified but she won the regional championship before going on to take the silver medal at state.

Describing what made the

difference between this year and last Ochoa said, “My hard work and dedication and, of course, my coach are the difference. We’ve never had a coach that pushed us and was there for us every single morning – even during football season. Coach Peña never took a break from us, all during the summer until now.”

As a team the Lady Eagles placed fourth out of 44 teams. With the team rankings being determined by accumulating the total scores of each teams’ members, the fact that Mission placed fourth with only three members when every team above them had eight or nine members on their teams was quite an accomplishment.

Juarez-Lincoln High

School was the only other Big 7 6-A team to have girls qualify for the state meet.

Of the Lady Huskies three state qualifiers, Valeria Banda was the only one to medal when she placed third in the 148-lb. weight class. Yesenia Gaytan placed sixth in the 220-lb. weight class and Elena Zamora placed eighth in the 165 lb. weight class as well. As a team the Lady Huskies placed 14th at state.

BELOW: Mission High's Vaneliy Guerrero, Sally Ochoa and Estephany Gonzalez all medaled for the Lady Eagles at the state powerlifting meet held in Corpus Christi last week. Progress Times photo by Luciano Guerra

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March 27, 2015

Coyotes top Eagles in extra innings

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“I was just happy to help our ccording to UIL rules, a high school baseball team win. I’m game cannot continue surrounded by after midnight. While that great teammates rule did not apply to the Mis- and that helps sion Eagles vs La Joya Coy- me a lot as a otes game at Leo Najo Field Tuesday night, it came close. freshman.”

– Rey Alanis The two District 30-6A rivals

By Luciano Guerra

played an extra inning marathon game Tuesday that did not end until the final pitch was thrown at nearly 11:30 p.m.

With both teams looking to earn their first district win of the season it was the Eagles that jumped out to an early lead scoring two runs in the bottom of the first and two in the second. With runs coming few-and-far-between for the Eagles this season, Mission head baseball coach Rick Lozano was glad to see his team capitalize on both of their early scoring opportunities. However, Mission’s failure to score runs early this season has not cost the Eagles as much as their failure to score runs late.

“We just haven’t been able to put runs on the board in clutch situations,” explained Lozano. “That pretty much sums up our season. This is the fifth ball game that we’ve lost in extra innings. We haven’t been able to close games

late by putting the ball into play when we needed to and driving in the winning runs.”

The Coyotes began chipping away at the Eagles’ 4-0 lead in the top of the third inning when they scored a single run on a double by center fielder Oscar Flores that drove in Julio Garcia from first. After the Eagles tacked on a run in the bottom of the fourth to make the score 5-1, Mission, La Joya retaliated with three runs of their own in the top of the fifth with an RBI single by Rey Alanis followed by an unearned run that scored on an errant throw to third that also allowed Alanis to advance to third. Alanis then scored on a sacrifice fly to left field by John Cadena. That made the score 5-4 in favor of Mission.

The Coyotes tied the game at five in the top of the sixth, which eventually led to extra innings. After both teams failed to score in the

seventh, eighth and ninth innings, Alanis drove in the winning run in the top of the 10th.

After the game, Alanis commented on his clutch hitting that helped the Coyotes earn their first district win in four attempts.

“I was pretty confident at the plate tonight,” said Alanis. “I was just happy to help our team win. I’m surrounded by great teammates and that helps me a lot as a freshman.”

“As for the winning RBI I was trying not to think,” added the Coyotes second baseman. “I just wanted to put the ball in play and come through for my team. It was an unbelievable feeling when I saw that final run score.”

La Joya junior Annibal Leal started the game at first base, but finished it on the mound. Having shut out the Eagles through the final four innings, Leal not only earned himself a victory but played a crucial role in helping the Coyotes rack up their first district win of the still young season.

“We’ve been working hard, but we haven’t been winning,” Leal said. “We finally got one tonight and that’s all that matters right now.”

With the win the Coyotes improved to 7-7 overall and 1-3 in district play. The Eagles, however, continue to struggle as they dropped to 2-10 overall and 0-3 in district play.

ABOVE: Mission’s Israel Perez and La Joya’s Rey Alanis collide at first base as the Coyotes’ first base coach calls the runner safe. LEFT: Mission first baseman Adan Canizalez stretches out to snag the ball just in time to get La Joya base runner Damian Leal out during the second inning of the Coyotes’ 6 - 5 win over the Eagles Tuesday evening.

Progress Times photo by Luciano Guerra

Tristen Robles Signs with Our Lady of the Lake Palmview High School senior Tristen Robles signed his letter of intent with Our Lady of the Lake University on Tuesday, March 24. Robles received an academic/athletic scholarship because of his performance on and off the field. Robles is currently ranked in the top 10% of his class and has been a cross country regional qualifier since his sophomore year at Palmview High School. Robles will join the Saints in the fall as a cross country and track athlete. Robles plans to major in business.

Sharyland rattles D’backs

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By Ed Salas ISSION – Despite allowing the Diamondbacks to get back into a game seemingly won in the third inning, the Rattlers recovered their composure in time to preserve a 15-5 home victory on Tuesday over District 31-5A rival Sharyland Pioneer.

“We had a chance to put them away in the fifth, but we just had a couple of miscues here and there, and we just gave them new life,” Sharyland head coach Rodolfo Martínez said. “They scored five runs on us. That’s what happens, I guess. We were up on them and we just needed to put them away.”

“The good thing about these games is that we get a lot of guys in, everybody gets

a chance to play,” he added.

“I’d like to see them have that attitude that when we’re up, let’s finish this and go. Christian (Salinas) threw well and a lot of guys hit well. We’d like to see them all put it together, but we’re OK. A win’s a win, I’ll take it.”

Sharyland improved to 3-1 in district competition and will face Valley View on Friday at Hidalgo at 7 p.m.

“They (Valley View) like to bunt a lot, they play fundamental baseball and they play a lot of hit-and-run, small ball and they like to move runners,” Martínez said. “We just got to be ready for that because we do a lot of that too.”

Mission Veterans Memorial (4-0) routed Valley View 15-1 on Tuesday to remain undefeated and atop the Dis-

trict 31-5A standings. The Patriots are followed by Edinburg Vela (3-1), Sharyland and Valley View.

“We have a real tough district,” Martínez said. “Mission Veterans beat us in the first game and we played a tough game against Vela. We beat Roma last week, but it wasn’t as easy as the score looked. Compared to all the districts in the Valley, we’re in one of the toughest.”

Against Pioneer, Sharyland’s bats rattled Diamondbacks right-handed pitcher Izsak Rodríguez. The Rattlers tagged him for nine runs in the third inning to give the home team and starting pitcher Christian Salinas an 11-0 lead.

Sharyland added three more runs in the following inning to increase the Rattlers’ lead to 14-0.

Among the players leading the Rattlers’ charge was third baseman and co-captain David Becerra, who went 3-for-4 with 4 RBI’s.

“We played good at the

beginning, but we relaxed at the end,” Becerra said. “We had them down and we let them back up, and that’s happened to us in other games.

I tell our guys to be excited every game, every pitch, because sometimes we’re not. If everyone is on the same page, we’re going to do a better job.”

After four innings of shutout ball, Pioneer finally got to Salinas. With two outs, the D’backs sprang to life and scored five unanswered runs off the Sharyland starting pitcher to cut the Rattler lead to 14-5.

However, that was as far as the Pioneer rally would go. Sharyland’s relief pitchers came on in the subsequent innings to put out the fire and the Rattlers added another run in the sixth to defeat the D’backs 15-5.

The loss against Sharyland dropped Pioneer to 0-5 in district. The D’backs will visit Roma (1-3) on Friday at 7 p.m. The Gladiators had a bye on Tuesday.

ABOVE: Pioneer’s Joey Recio makes contact.

BOTTOM LEFT: Sharyland pitcher Gabriel Gonzalez delivers during the Rattlers’ 15-5 win over cross-town rival Pioneer Tuesday night. BELOW: Pioneer sophomore Andrew Ogletree takes the throw at second base trying to force Sharyland’s Jose Ramirez. Progress Times photos by Doug Young