April 17, 2015 - Progress Times Issue

Friday, April 17, 2015

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Former Rio Grande City mayor sets sights on Congress

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By Julie Silva s Basilio Villarreal slowly died of cancer in 1995, he reminded his son of all the things he’d taught him over the years – chivalry, honesty, being a good role model and good fiscal management.

“He started reminding me of the lessons that I needed to learn when I got into government, and I kept telling him I’m not getting into government. He said, ‘Yes, you are,” Ruben Villarreal said.

Having recently announced his candidacy for the 15th Congressional Dis-

trict of Texas, Villarreal said his dad must have seen something in him that he didn’t at the time.

Villarreal resigned his post as mayor of Rio Grande City after seven years, moved to Edinburg and is challenging long-time Congressman Ruben Hinojosa, a democrat who’s served nearly two decades in the district, which stretches from McAllen north to Seguin.

Hinojosa already raised $99,000 the first quarter of the year and has more than $261,000 in cash on hand.

Mission Police Officer Paul Williams also has announced

his intention to run for the seat as a democrat.

Villarreal announced he was a republican while helping Gov. Greg Abbott get votes in the Rio Grande Valley. He said he recognizes the Valley leans heavily democratic, but he rejected the notion that only one party could serve the area. He described many republicans as independent thinkers, like him. They want jobs and a strong Texas. They don’t want high taxation.

“We all want to be safe.

We all want families to have a chance to get a good job and live in a safe neighbor-

hood,” Villarreal said.

Voters should look for the candidate who will give them the loudest voice in Washington, D.C., he said.

When he took over as mayor of Rio Grande City, it was in the red. Leaving it now, Villarreal estimated the city has $4 million between all of its accounts. He wants to bring that same type of fiscal responsibility to D.C. That’s what his dad – a business owner who passed down his shop to Villarreal – taught him.

At first, Villarreal, now

See VILLARREAL 12

Peñitas terminates contracts in delayed projects T

By Julie Silva

Dilapidated buildings to be demolished

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By Kathy Olivarez wo dilapidated buildings in the 500 block of Conway Avenue soon will be demolished.

Mission City Council members approved the move after an executive session at their Monday meeting. One of the buildings once was a tire repair shop on the southeast corner of Sixth Street and Conway Avenue. The other is a two-story building at 506 N. Conway. It was once a hospital started by Mission pioneer Cayetano Barrera, but the roof has fallen in and the building is considered unsafe to the public.

When asked about the buildings within the historic district, Mayor Beto Salinas said the council had approved the designation and the buildings in question did not have any historic plaques associated with them.

“We checked with the Texas Historic Commission in Austin,” Salinas said, “and found that unless there was a historical plaque associated with the building, there was no reason we could not remove the building since it is a danger to the public.”

Bob Galligan, interim city attorney, was instructed to take whatever legal action was necessary against the owners of the other properties considered for demolition. They are the south one-half of Lot 4, Block 91, Mission Original Townsite, Lot 3, Block 1, of the Renteria Subdivision, Lot 20, Block 6, Carlos G. Leal Subdivision and Lot 19, Block 6, Carlos G. Leal Subdivision.

In other action, Salinas objected to the sale of alcohol at an events center next to a large residential neigh-

See MISSION 14

he city of Peñitas terminated its contract with Fulcrum Consulting Services as the municipality continues to push to finish its $9 million sewer system project.

Oscar Cuellar, Peñitas city manager, said several issues led to the contract termination. The U.S. Department of Agriculture, which is funding the project through a loan/grant, has frozen reimbursements while the agency tries to straighten out several bookkeeping concerns, like the fact that three phases were combined into one project.

“It’s a big mess,” Cuellar said, “so the council decided to bring in somebody else to mess with this.”

Julio Cerda, former Mission city manager now is overseeing the project.

Originally, Cuellar said, an engineer-in-training with Fulcrum oversaw construction, but another engineer with the company has gone back and found several things were done wrong.

Also, Cuellar said, the engineer directed the contractor to do work before it was approved by the USDA. “At all the meetings, we asked, ‘Is there enough money to pay for this change order?’ Yes. ‘Is it allowable?’

Yes, USDA said yes,” Cuellar said.

“Usually you do a change order and you get signed approval and you tell the contractor to do it. The city council approved it, and he

would tell the contractor, ‘Do it,’ and now USDA came back and said, ‘We’re not approving it if the work’s already done.’ He should never have approved that work until we actually got paid. We had approved it, but it hadn’t gotten approved up the chain of command.”

Cuellar blamed many of the issues that have delayed the sewer system on turnover. The city’s been through three city managers, USDA’s been through four employees assigned to the project and the original contractor hired by the city went bankrupt mid-way through and abandoned the project.

That’s increased the price of the project.

“All these people, it makes it more difficult,” Cuellar said. “If you had the same people that started it and finished it, it might not have gone this way.”

Another issue, Cuellar said, is the contract was bid out at a unit price, meaning the contractors were paid the same amount per home for each connection, no matter the degree of difficulty. As work proceeded, the contractors skipped the more difficult connections to make and went with the easy, less costly work with the intent of going back to the harder ones.

In some places, Cuellar said the main sewer line is higher than the lines coming from the houses and pumps will be required to push the waste from several houses up into the line. That’s

See CONTRACTS 14

INSIDE

INDEX

Progress Times needs your help

Professionals aim to end child abuse

Huskies and Lady Lobos take district titles

As we prepare for candidate forums in advance of the May elections, we want to know what your concerns are for the future.

In honor of National Child Abuse Awareness Month Buckner Family Services professionals are asking families to stop the cycle.

The Juarez-Lincoln track team came in first at the District 30-6A meet last week, and the Palmview girls team also took top honors.

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See story page 3

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Entertainment | pg. 2

Lifestyle | pg. 8

Opinion | pg. 4

Sports | pg. 10

Obituaries | pg. 11

Classifieds | pg. 13

Political Ad paid for by candidate

entertainment Performing Arts Complex to take center stage April 23

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fter two years of construction and planning, the Performing Arts Complex (PAC) at The University of Texas-Pan American is ready to make its debut on Thursday, April 23, with its Grand Premiere Concert. Doors open at 7 p.m. for the Grand Premiere Concert, and the public is invited to be part of the free festivities.

To celebrate the highly anticipated grand opening of the 1,000-seat, state-of-the-art facility, UTPA has planned a spectacular evening of the arts, starting at 7:30 p.m. and featuring performances by faculty and student artists from UTPA and The University of Texas at Brownsville.

From the lilting strains of the string and wind orchestras, to the colorful dances of the UTPA Folklórico and the passionate music of the award-winning Mariachi Aztlán, the evening, sponsored

by Plains Capital Bank, will have something for everyone.

“The new Performing Arts Complex will be a beautiful venue for wonderful events, fabulous performances, guest speakers and presentations,”

said Dr. Dahlia Guerra, dean of the UTPA College of Arts and Humanities. “It will be the heart of the performing and fine arts in the Rio Grande Valley.”

The Performing Arts Complex was part of a $42.7 million project approved by the University of Texas System Board of Regents in 2011 that included renovations to the university’s Fine Arts Buildings B and C, which house practice rooms, classrooms, and music analysis and listening labs. PAC Building A will provide students and faculty support space with four rehearsal halls and dressing rooms.

The grand auditorium offers patrons an ultra-modern experience, with the latest in lighting and sound equipment, the best acoustics possible and built-in art galleries. PAC also provides much-needed academic space, with four large rehearsal halls that will be in constant use by some 400 music majors and future students of The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, set to open in fall 2015, Guerra said.

“The PAC will bring great opportunity to UTRGV, providing the best facilities for the education and training of our students, and a fabulous arts venue to unite our community,” she said.

The Grand Premiere Concert will feature a variety of musical performances – including a spirited opening with more than 30 trumpets to commemorate the significance of this important moment for the Valley com-

munity. Other featured performances include the UTPA Choir, UTPA/UTB Classical Guitar Ensemble, UTPA Wind Ensemble, and UTPA String Ensemble and Symphony Orchestra. Also, paintings by Kirk Clark, a patron of the UTPA arts, will be showcased in the new PAC art galleries.

For more information or if special accommodations are needed to attend the concert, call (956) 665-5301.

UTPA students present Mozart's ‘Cosí fan tutte’

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pera novices and fans are invited to enjoy Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's popular opera, “Cosí fan tutte,” or “School for Lovers,” April 17-18 at The University of Texas-Pan American. It is the first fulllength opera performed in recent history by UTPA students.

The opera is a hilarious story about the follies of love set to some of the most beau-

tiful, raucous and effective operatic music ever composed, said David Sadlier, assistant professor of voice in the Department of Music and Dance.

“The show is one of Mozart's comedic masterpieces and is an amazing highlight of the talent that we have at UTPA,” said Sadlier, who is the opera's conductor, stage director and production manager. “Cosí offers great opportunities for students to learn about performing opera from the Classical time period. It is a great teaching tool for our students and will help build a potential fan base for opera in the Valley. We want people to understand that opera is not so far outside their wheelhouse. Cosí is not different from any romantic comedy you might go see in the movie theater.”

The two-act opera, originally set in Naples and here updated to 1950s Mexico, will be sung in English.

UTPA students are cast in the six lead roles and comprise the accompanying orchestra and chorus. The UTPA Theatre Area is also collaborating in the production, providing costume design and stage management.

“Opera was the world's first multimedia event. It combines visual arts, musical arts, literature, poetry and dance,” Sadlier said. “With the upcoming College of Fine Arts at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, opera represents something that can really be interdisciplinary within that college. It offers so much that will not only strengthen the future School of Music, but also the college in general.”

“Cosí fan tutte” is the humorous tale of two young soldiers who, at the direction of their older (wiser) friend, disguise their identities to test their lovers’ fidelity through

See UTPA 9

April 17, 2015

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NEWS | SPORTS | ENTERTAINMENT | PHOTOS

Coming Attractions

April 17-April 24 Fulden Wissinger, assistant art professor at Texas A&M University-Kingsville, has a solo exhibit at the Titan Studio in Harlingen. Entitled Turkish Delights, Wissinger’s work represents her heritage and her life growing up in Istanbul. The exhibit will be on display at Titan Studio through Friday, April 24. She works in mixed media including clay with objects and graphic design. Titan Studio is located at 203 N. Commerce.

April 17-29 Originally scheduled to begin April 1, UT-Pan American professor and art instructor Douglas Clark will conduct a sculpture workshop at the Upper Valley Art League (UVAL). Beginning April 8, 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 27-May 6 Upper Valley Art League had an opening reception April 11 for the Artist Unanimous Juried Exhibition. The Exhibit will run through May 6. UVAL is located in the Kika de la Garza Fine Arts Center at 921 E. 12th St., in Mission.

April 17 Breaking Benjamin will perform at the Boggus Ford Events Center (previously Pharr Events Center) at 7 p.m.. Special guests will be Young Guns. All tickets are general admission and are $37.50.

April 18 Quinta Mazatlan will host its Earth Day Festival, Vida Verde, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The event kicks off with a Run Wild 5K at 7:30 a.m.

The event will feature animal shows, artist booths, educational exhibitors, food vendors, organic cooking classes, a farmers market, trash fashion show, eco-art projects, health fitness activities, Music in the Park, rock climbing and more. Special events include the Live Ocelot, Wild Birds of Prey, Danny and His Reptiles, Contacto Animal Show, Dinosaur George, Eco-Magician and others. Free parking

and buses will be available at the Mcallen Civic Center on South 19th Street that will take you to the front gates of Quinta Mazatlan all day. For more information call 6813370 or visit www.quintamazatlan.com.

McAllen Chamber of Commerce will host their Sizzling in the Tropics BarB-Q Cook Off from 12 to 5 p.m. at the Chamber, 1200 Ash Ave. The event will feature beef brisket, pulled pork, pork ribs, chicken, jackpot beans and pan de campo that will be voted on for taste and showmanship. There will be live music and cost is $15 per person.

April 19 Sunday Speaker Series at the Museum of South Texas History will consist of a concert by Good Times Band, playing live music made popular in the 50s-70s, from 1-3 p.m. Concert is including with admission. For more information, call 956-383-6911.

MOSTH is located at 200 N. Closner Blvd. in Edinburg.

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 800745-3000.

April 24 Jokes R Us Comedy Series will perform at the McAllen Civic Auditorium from 8 to 10 p.m. The event features Joey Medina, Alex Ortiz, Sonia Trevino and host Mario Superstar Salazar. Tickets are available through Ticketmaster of McAllen Convention Center Box Office or 956648-2333.

April 26 Sunday Speaker Series at the Museum of South Texas History will consist of a concert by Edinburg North Mariachi, high school students performing hits from yesterday, mariachi style, from 1-3 p.m. Concert is including with admission. For more information, call 956383-6911. MOSTH is located at 200 N. Closner Blvd. in Edinburg.

May 2 The City of Harlingen will present Fiesta Cinco de Mayo on Saturday, May 2, 2015, from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Lt. George Gutierrez Jr. Park, 500 W. Harrison Ave. Children’s activities, live music, and cultural performances are scheduled during the fiesta at the park in the La Placita District. Contact Harlingen Convention & Visitors Bureau Events Manager Esmeralda Martinez about sponsorships and details at (956) 423-5440 or emartinez@myharlingen. us.

May 9 Undefeated former lightweight world champion Omar “Panterita” Figueroa (24-0-1, 18 KOs) will take on former two-division world champion Ricky Burns (37-41, 11 KOs) in the main event when Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) returns to CBS on Saturday, May 9, at the State Farm Arena in Hidalgo.

In the co-main event, a pair of bantamweight world champions square off when Tomoki Kameda (31-0, 19 KOs) battles Jamie McDonnell (252-1, 12 KOs). Tickets start at $25. Tickets are available at www.ticketmaster.com or at the State Farm Arena Box Office. To charge by phone, call Ticketmaster at (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 5835961 or email Doodrey@ netzero.com for more information.

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

April 17, 2015

Abuse prevention month: professionals speak out

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Dora Luz Rothcschild (left) and Blanca Chavez listen in on a lecture on family traditions from the Universal Child Abuse Prevention program by Buckner Family Services.

as normal behavior.

“It’s a cycle because a lot of the parents will tell you, ‘That’s the way I grew up too,’” Romero said. “It’s hard for an agency to step in and say ‘We’re here to help’ because parents will say they don’t need it. They’re going to parent the way they were raised.”

Abuse is a learned behavior, he said, and by teaching

Reminiscing...

30 Years Ago This Week

City of La Joya celebrates audit

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By Julie Silva

By Lea Victoria Juarez he most important thing a person can do when it comes to child abuse is report it, according to Buckner Family Services professionals. Be it a victim or a bystander, the first step is reporting the acts committed.

Once the abuse is reported, the next step is taking it seriously.

“It’s gotten to the point where kids are dying. Some people don’t understand the entire concept of what’s going on in a child’s life,” said James Romero, a Universal Child Abuse Prevention specialist. “They can’t find another person that will listen to them or pay attention to them, so they’re too afraid to report it.”

UCAP is a program that works to end child abuse by educating the community through parenting classes by partnering with social service agencies.

Romero travels from Falfurrias to South Padre Island year-round giving lectures on preventing abuse and implementing positive family environments. In light of National Abuse Prevention Month, his lectures become more frequent in April.

In his 10 years of experience with the UCAP program, he said abuse usually occurs because it is accepted

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Pat Marlin was named Bryan School principal Marlin, assistant principal at Mission Junior High School, was named principal to replace Hurla Midkiff. Midkiff earlier had been named principal of North Elementary School when it opened in the fall.

La Joya trustees were sworn in after canvass Election Judge Deborah G. Flores announced that out of 694 voters, Alicia Requenez received 694 votes for place 1.

Amancio Chapa Jr. received 672 votes for place 2 and Arturo Garza Jr. received 657 votes.

Mission City Council delayed action on amusement park A standing room only audience, most of them residents of Heritage Square Mobile Home Park, attended a meeting to voice opposition to a conditional use permit that would allow Pirate Island Amusement Park on two lots of the Heritage Commercial Plaza.

The item was never brought up on the agenda, however, when attorney Louis Brown, representing the developer on the project, Joe Vasquez, request the hearing be delayed.

Brown said he needed more time to present the case because Vasquez had employed him just a few days before.

families to be “warm-hearted,” he has seen changes with his clients. The main points the specialist tries to get across are communication, discipline and conflict resolution. With communication comes trust.

But when a child experiences the trauma of abuse, building trust is the most difficult task, according to Foster Care Case Manager Ana Maria Vasquez.

The Buckner worker of 15 years has first-hand experience with children who are removed from homes and placed into foster care due to abuse and neglect. Although a child may be removed from the environment, the wounds still remain with them.

“They are having more difficulty dealing because we are strangers. We have to gain their trust, build a relationship with a child,” Vasquez said. “So as a professional, we have to be very tactful, establish a relationship with the child. If the child is not open to you, you cannot help.”

Children with Rio Grande Valley Children’s Home have a year to resolve problems with their biological families, otherwise they get passed through another system such as adoption or independent living.

The Buckner and Child

Protective Services professionals work hand-in-hand with the foster parents to get the families back on track. For Vasquez, the foster parents are the backbone of process. When the child feels connected with the foster parent, they will begin to trust and open up about their abuse, she said.

“It takes special people to become foster parents because, it’s not a job. it’s not to make money. It’s about the child,” said Nelida Tristan, a foster care home developer.

“Foster parents focus only on the child’s needs to help them feel comfortable, safe and loved in their home.”

Tristan said the best results occur when the foster parent and biological parent work together better the family because of the open communication and trust level.

Romero’s UCAP sessions include trust exercises, but getting the parents to be honest about their actions can be difficult. But he doesn’t judge the families, he said, because that is not his job.

His purpose is to help.

“After I see the parents graduate I can see the changes in them,” Romero said.

“It’s just great to know there may not be abuse any longer because of what we’ve done for them. But my biggest stress is to first report it.”

ity of La Joya leaders are celebrating obtaining an unmodified opinion on the 2013-2014 audit after struggling for years to get all of their paperwork in order.

An unmodified opinion means the auditor found the city’s financial statements to be a true and fair view of its finances. City Manager Mike Alaniz said auditor Oscar Gonzalez gave the city a good report.

“We used to, unfortunately, have some findings,” Alaniz said. “The finance department wasn’t able to finish up on reconciliations like they should. We kept struggling in that area.”

Out of seven findings from 2013, the audit found the city fixed six of them. The seventh found that city should immediately segregate duties in the utility department and properly supervise things like meter reading input into the system, the generation of bills, collections and disconnections.

According to the report, the auditor found a single utility billing clerk has a broad range of responsibilities. In addition, several delinquent accounts had not been disconnected in accordance with city policy, the report states.

“Various customer accounts were purposely allowed service when disconnection fees and procedures applied,” the report states.

The city’s response states that other personnel have been assigned to duties as recommended by the auditor.

It adds that the city administrator and finance director are monitoring accounts internally to enforce delinquent accounts.

Alaniz said it’s a monthly process, and when the auditors come back in to the office, they’ll see it’s been corrected.

A second item was listed as not corrected on the audit report, but Alaniz provided a letter from the auditor reflecting it had been fixed.

“This shows that the City of La Joya is on the right track to improve the city’s finances and recordkeeping,” Gonzalez states in the letter.

“Keep up the good work.”

Gonzalez had noted that there were expenditures in excess of appropriations and budgeted and actual revenues and expenditures weren’t being compared on a monthly basis. The city delayed approving the report for a week to ensure it was corrected.

“We started this new method of when a check is made, we make sure that the receipts are there, that the invoices are there before we buy the items and then that the balance of the line item is there,” Mayor Fito Salinas said. “Before, there was nothing like that. If I needed to fix 20 flats on my vehicles, nobody knew if there was any money to fix those flats.”

Alaniz credited a lot of the work to the city’s finance director, Goya Jackson, who took over the job about two years ago.

The other items marked as corrected were: • Ensuring financial information is prepared timely and accurately for state agencies • Preparing purchase orders and invoices for transactions and storing them in a secure area • Ensuring cash deposits are handled properly and money is secured at all times • Ensuring credit card account statements are safeguarded and all back-up documentation attached to them • Ensuring the schedule of expenditures of federal awards is accurate and reflects all federal expenditures made during the year Alaniz said the changes helped the city get back on track financially, and gain some ground on the previous deficit. When Salinas first took office, Alaniz said the city was about $500,000 in the red.

According to the audit, the city brought in $2,562,000 into the general fund and spent $2,216,000, meaning the city came out ahead by more than $46,000.

That money cut the deficit from about $431,000 to $384,000. Alaniz said this year’s budget includes setting aside $100,000 to cut the deficit back even more.

Salinas said he’s caught heat for approving fees on amusement machines in the

See AUDIT 12

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opinion

By Ed Sterling Texas Press Association

STATE CAPITAL HIGHLIGHTS

USTIN — Statewide authority to investigate and prosecute public corruption would be moved out of the Travis County District Attorney’s Office under Senate Bill 10, legislation approved by the Senate on April 9.

Sen. Joan Huffman, chair of the Senate State Affairs Committee, wrote the legislation under which the Texas Rangers, a division of the Department of Public Safety, would reestablish and support the state’s Public Integrity Unit and assume the initial investigatory role when a complaint is filed against a public official. Cases would be prosecuted in the county where a public official resides. “After more than three decades of accepting this cultural norm, the public has lost confidence in this tacit scheme, and Texas needs a fair and explicit process to hold wrongdoers accountable,” Huffman said.

The unit has been located in Travis County since 1982, when it was created by an act of the Texas Legislature. Efforts toward stripping the unit and its authority from Travis County began two years ago when Travis County District Attorney Rosemary Lehmberg, who heads the unit, was arrested and pled guilty to drunken driving. Then-Gov. Rick Perry called for Lehmberg’s resignation approaching the end of the 2013 legislative session, but Lehmberg rebuffed Perry by remaining in office. Perry vetoed the unit’s $7.5 million budget.

He was later indicted on a charge of official coercion for using his veto power in an attempt to force Lehmberg to resign. Lehmberg was elected to a four-year term as district attorney in 2012.

SB 10, approved by the

Senate with all 20 of the body’s Republicans voting in favor and all 10 of the body’s Democrats voting in opposition, has moved to the Texas House for consideration.

Senate’s budget bill moves The Senate Finance Committee on April 8 unanimously approved Committee Substitute House Bill 1, its version of a state budget for fiscal years 2016 and 2017.

Coming in a $211.4 billion — about $1.5 billion more than the version passed earlier by the full Texas House — the legislation was authored primarily by Senate Finance Committee Chair Jane Nelson, R-Flower Mound, and Vice Chair Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa, D-McAllen. Next step in the process will be for the bill to be passed by the full Senate and then to iron out differences with the House version, be assigned to a joint House-Senate conference committee, to be named

by Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who presides over the Senate, and House Speaker Joe Straus.

Regarding the Senate version Hinojosa said, “We increased access and funding to services needed by our most vulnerable populations: the young, elderly, sick and poor. We invested in infrastructure, border security, and our students. The budget is well within all constitutional spending and debt limits, and will pave the way for an educated and healthy workforce and a successful Texas economy.”

Senate passes Right to Try SB 694, legislation to give terminal patients quicker access to experimental treatments, unanimously passed the Senate on April 9.

Freshman Sen. Paul Bettencourt, R-Houston, said he offered the legislation because he believes the current

system is too cumbersome and slow to help people who need treatment fast.

Bettencourt said his bill would create a “framework to help those with a terminal disease get access to drugs and treatments still in the federal Food and Drug Administration trial process quickly and safely.”

In Senate floor debate, Health and Human Services Committee Chair Charles Schwertner, R-Georgetown, raised a concern that families and patients facing dire circumstances could be easily deceived by people making false promises for profit. Language in the bill was amended so that a company offering a drug covered under the bill or a doctor administering the treatment must agree to do so at no cost to the patient.

Sales tax revenue increases State Comptroller Glenn Hegar last week said state sales tax revenue in March totaled $2.12 billion, a 1.5 percent increase compared to March in the previous year.

“State sales tax collections have now grown for 60 consecutive months despite weakening in the energy sector. This moderated growth was expected and is currently in line with estimates presented in January,” Hegar explained in an April 8 news release. “Receipts in the construction, services and restaurant sectors remained relatively strong. We will continue to monitor the state’s economic activity and its impact on key revenue sources.”

Cities, counties, transit systems and special purpose taxing districts will receive their April local sales tax allocations totaling $576.6 million, up 4 percent compared to April 2014.

April 17, 2015

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NEWS | SPORTS | ENTERTAINMENT | PHOTOS

Texas should pass texting ban during Distracted Driving Awareness Month

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By Sen. Judith Zaffirini

pril is Distracted Driving Awareness Month, and, unfortunately, we don't have to look far to understand the terrible toll that distracted driving is taking on Texas families.

Last month alone, 15-year-old Delia Ramirez of Austin was killed when a distracted driver ran a red light and crashed into the vehicle she was riding in, and 87-year-old Helen Montfort of Corsicana was killed and her daughter seriously injured when a distracted driver of a pickup truck rear-ended their vehicle.

The problem of distracted driving is getting progressively worse in Texas.

In 2014 distracted driving was a factor in more than 100,000 crashes in our state, an increase of six percent from 2013. What's more, these crashes were responsible for more than 3,200 serious injuries and 468 deaths.

All were needless and could have been prevented, but for distracted drivers.

Texting while driving increases the risk of a crash by at least eight times, and according to the Texas Department of Transportation, distracted driving is the cause of one in every five crashes in our state. A recent study by the AAA Institute for Traffic Safety indicates that distracted driving was the cause of nearly 60 percent of crashes in which teenagers were behind the wheel.

There's good reason to believe a statewide ban on texting while driving could make a real difference in reducing the number of deaths and injuries related to distracted driving. Researchers at Texas A&M University recently found that the number of car crash hospitalizations declined in states that instituted strict bans on texting

Sen. Judith Zaffirini. Courtesy photo

while driving.

No text is worth a life, and texting bans are worth it if they save even one life. More than 40 Texas cities have recognized this and passed their own bans on texting while driving.

This patchwork of local ordinances is better than nothing, but it can be confusing to drivers. What we need is one uniform, statewide rule. Like the well-known state law requiring Texans to buckle up, a statewide ban on texting will ensure drivers know they are prohibited from texting while driving on city streets and state highways.

Accordingly, this legislative session Rep. Tom Craddick, R-Midland, and I again have filed the Alex Brown Memorial Act, named after one of Rep. Craddick's constituents who was killed in a single-car rollover crash on her way to school. She was distracted by text messages on her cell phone.

It's time for Texas to get serious about distracted driving and join the 44 other states that already prohibit texting while driving. The Texas House of Representatives already has passed the Alex Brown Act overwhelmingly, and it's time for the

Texas Senate to do the same.

Passing the bill during National Distracted Driving Awareness Month would send a strong message that our state is serious about saving lives and preventing unnecessary deaths and injuries.

In the meantime, there are things you can do to reduce the risk of having a distracted driving crash. For example, you can put your phone in a place where you can't see it and won't be tempted to reach for it. Alternatively, you can put your phone in silent mode until you reach your destination, because the less you hear it, the less you'll be tempted to reach for it.

If you have a passenger, make him or her your "designated texter." What's more, there are many downloadable smartphone apps such as Live2Text and AT&T's DriveMode that can help you stop texting while driving.

Perhaps most important, the next time you see friends or family members start to send a text while driving, remind them that it can wait.

Their lives—and yours— could depend on it.

Sen. Judith Zaffirini represents District 21 in the Texas Senate.

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

TEXAS PRESS ASSOCIATION

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

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April 17, 2015

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MHS students to present at Farmers Market

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By Lea Victoria Juarez

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Attention residents of Sharyland ISD

haryland Times and Progress Times are hosting a candidate forum for all who are running in the upcoming May election, but we need your help.

You live in the district and you know your needs and concerns. Send us the questions you’d like the candidates to answer. The pub-

lic is invited to attend the forum, which is scheduled for Saturday, April 25, 2015, at 1 p.m. at the Penny Payte McLeaish Learning Resource Center at Sharyland High School.

Email Editor Julie Silva at Julie@progresstimes.net with your questions or call Silva at 956-585-4893.

he students in Victoria Rojas’ human geology class are taking what they learn in the classroom and putting it into action.

The Mission High teacher said she believes in spreading knowledge with the community.

For five weeks, her freshmen classes have been preparing presentations on the environment and wellness for Saturday’s McAllen Farmers Market. In an effort to promote a more health-conscious community, the students will be presenting topics such as air pollution, agriculture and obesity.

Rojas wanted to take global issues and bring them home to a more relatable scale.

“A lot of times these students are exposed to these ideas and issues but not from such a close point of view

directly, not from their own community,” Rojas said.

“This project is meant for them to do research and think ‘OK, what can we do to help these issues?’”

Sebastian Carillo’s group was tasked with researching wildlife conservation in the Rio Grande Valley. The students found various native animals that are endangered, such as the ocelot. One of their suggestions to counter the problem is to build protected bases where the native cats can repopulate.

But while working on the project, Carrillo said he felt that wildlife conservation was not a topic that seemed to get much attention in the area.

“There aren’t that many efforts to conserve the wildlife,” the 14-year-old said.

“It makes me disappointed because right now we get to enjoy nature’s beauty, but future generations might not be

able to.”

Although Carrillo has never been to a Farmers Market, he said he is excited to share his findings with the eyes and ears of the attendees.

Rojas said none of her students have been to a Farmers Market and some didn’t know about the organic gathering held outside the McAllen Public Library each Saturday morning. In addition to presenting their topics, she saw this as an opportunity to introduce the students to a new scene.

Also in the spirit of wellness, she reached out to Habitat for Humanity, which donated materials for raised flowerbeds to be raffled off to attendees. Anyone who hears three presentations or more can enter their name in the drawing for one of the five beds constructed by MHS’s FFA club.

In an effort to reach a

broader audience, the presentations will be in conducted in English and Spanish.

“We’re talking about our community and having students present something in an academic environment in a different language is such an excellent thing for them to do to,” Rojas said. “I want them to see their language, being bilingual, as a very positive thing.”

Because this is a first-time event, Rojas said she doesn't know what to expect or what kind of crowd they will draw.

But whatever turnout is, she expects it to be the first of many.

“I hope that this is something that’s memorable for the students, that this is something they’ll think back on and remember what they learned,” Rojas said. “Even if it’s just their own particular topic and I hope it kind of fosters a love for their community.”

VMHS students advance to regional academic UIL meet

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he Veterans Memorial High School academic UIL team is advancing quite a few students to the regional competitions, based upon results from the 5A District 31 meet.

The current event team placed first at the district meet and is advancing to regionals. Team members are: Jaime Bazaldua, Rene Olivarez, Ted Rodriguez, Lee Sanchez.

The number sense team placed first at the district meet and qualifies for advancement to the regional meet. Team members are: Darius Davis, Feliciano Escobedo, Hector Iglesias, Kellen Shults.

The spelling team placed second at the district meet and are awaiting final wildcard decisions for possible advancement to the regional competition. Team members are: Alexandra Galvez, Cassandra Galvez, Kimberly Garza, Mirna Rodriguez.

Students who are advancing to the regional competition as individuals are: Darius Davis, second place, calculator applications; Hector Iglesias, first place, computer science; Michelle Mata, first place, headline writing; Darius Davis (second place) and Hector Iglesias (fifth place), mathematics; Jacqueline Martinez, fourth place, poetry interpretation; Savannah

State Rep. Oscar Longoria stands with members of the Juarez-Lincoln High School Student Council and their sponsor Ana Loya. The group was honored as the highest-ranking student council in the Rio Grande Valley. Courtesy photo

State recognizes Juarez-Lincoln HS Student Council

Pictured are the academic UIL students from VMHS who are advancing to the regional academic UIL meet. Not pictured are Kellen Shults and Feliciano Escobedo.

Claeys, first place, prose interpretation; Kimberly Garza, first place, spelling.

Other top VMHS results from the district UIL meet include: calculator applications team, second place (Darius Davis, Henry Davis, Kimberly Garza, Hector Iglesias); Jaime Bazaldua, first place current issues; Ted Rodriguez, second place, current issues; Rene Olivarez, third place current issues; Lee Sanchez, fourth place, current issues; computer science team, third place (Darius Davis, Feliciano Escobedo, Hector Iglesias, Kellen

Shults); Christian Esquivel, fifth place, informative speaking; mathematics team, second place (Darius Davis, Henry Davis, Feliciano Escobedo, Hector Iglesias; Darius Davis, first place, number sense; Feliciano Escobedo, third place, number sense; Hector Iglesias, fifth place, number sense; Savannah Claeys, first place, prose interpretation; Darius Davis, fourth place, science; Kimberly Garza, first place, spelling; Alexandra Galvez, fourth place spelling; Cassandra Galvez, sixth place, spelling.

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fter many hours of community service and helping promote events such as an anti-bully rally and veterans breakfast, the Husky Student Council is being rewarded for its hard work and dedication to their school and community.

The House of Representatives of the 84th Texas Legislature in Austin honored the student council from Juarez-Lincoln High School

on Thursday as the highest-ranking student council organization in the Rio Grande Valley.

Out of 152 valley high school student councils, only 13 qualified for a sweepstakes award and Juarez-Lincoln ranked number one.

For this acknowledgement, sponsor Ana Loya and her student council, traveled to the state capitol to receive their recognition from State

Rep. Oscar Longoria.

For the ninth consecutive year, the group has received awards for: TASC Outstanding Student Council, Outstanding Pride and Patriotism, Outstanding Energy and Environment, Outstanding Drug, Alcohol, Safety, and Health, Outstanding Community Service, and the prestigious National Gold Council of Excellence Award for 2015.

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April 17, 2015

The many benefits of hiring a professional landscaper

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Time saved and a professional job are just two of the reasons homeowners hire lawn care companies.

Ideas for pool perimeter

landscaping

W to devote a significant chunk of their weekends to caring for their lawns.

• Reduced risk for injury: Maintaining a landscape is hard work, and those unaccustomed to this type of activity may find themselves winded or at risk of injury.

Improper use of lawn equipment also is a safety hazard.

• Financial savings: On the surface, hiring a landscaping service may seem like a costly venture. However, after crunching some numbers, many homeowners realize that doing the work themselves may cost more in the long run than hiring a professional landscaping service.

Homeowners who decide to go it alone must purchase expensive equipment, and those lawn tools will require routine maintenance, which costs additional money. Inexperienced homeowners may incur

extra fees to “fix” mistakes that occur during the learning process. Each year, new seed, fertilizer, mulch, pesticides, and other supplies also must be purchased. But professional lawn care services typically charge a set fee per month, and that fee covers the maintenance of both your property and the equipment needed to keep that property looking great.

• Know-how: Many professional landscapers know how to address lawn care issues that may arise throughout the year. They will know how to deal with dry patches of lawn or poorly draining areas, and they also can make recommendations on plants that will thrive under certain conditions.

• One-stop shopping: Certain landscaping services provide many different options for prospective customers.

Basic lawn cuts may be one package, but there also may be services for seasonal seeding, weeding, leaf clean-up, and winterizing.

• Consistent maintenance: Homeowners who frequently travel or spend much of their summers away from home often find that lawn care companies are a wise investment.

Established weekly schedules ensure the landscape always will look its best whether homeowners are home or out of town.

Spring is a great time for homeowners to decide if hiring professional landscaping services is in their best interests. The time and money saved, as well as impact professional landscapers can have on a property, makes landscaping services a great investment.

ith the rise of the “staycation,” more and more homeowners are turning their backyards into their own private oases. The centerpiece of many such retreats is a refreshing and inviting pool.

Whether above-ground or inground models, pools make for welcoming spots to enjoy warm days and nights.

A new pool can quickly turn a yard into the “it” spot to spend vacations or cool off at the end hot summer days.

While pools are often the focal point of a backyard, many homeowners want their pools to blend seamlessly with the rest of their yards. When transforming a backyard that includes a pool, homeowners should consider a few factors to ensure each afternoon spent poolside is as safe as it is fun.

Safety first Although the goal may be to soften the lines of the pool and/or create sight barriers that will provide some measure of privacy for swimmers, homeowners must put safety above all else. Before any decorative touches are added, it is important to surround a pool with a slip-resistant

surface and fencing (many communities require fences be erected around pools).

Consult with a landscaping contractor, who should be knowledgeable about safety codes, or speak to the permit-issuing department at town hall. There should be a list of requirements to ensure pool placement as well as any surrounding touches are legal and within code.

Nonslip surfaces Concrete, brick and pavers and decking are popular materials used to surround a pool. Installers can make recommendations on materials and finishes, but one suggestion is to choose a rough finish. Pool water can make surfaces slippery. Concrete that is stamped or scarred provides extra traction than a smooth surface. The same can be said for brick patios and pavers. Avoid smooth stones or pavers with shiny surfaces, as these may only increase the risk of falls.

Homeowners who have chosen wood or composite decking to surround a pool should talk to their contractor about nonslip protective coat-

See LANDSCAPING 7

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he flowers are blooming, and the grass has begun to grow anew, making spring a great time for homeowners to once again turn their attention to landscaping. Those who aren’t looking forward to dusting off their lawnmowers and rethreading their string trimmers may want to hire professional landscapers to tend to their lawns and gardens.

A recent joint study by the National Gardening Association, Residential Lawn and Landscape Services and the Value of Landscaping found that homeowners spend roughly $45 billion per year on professional lawn and landscape services, as nearly 30 percent of all households across the United States use at least one type of lawn or landscape service. The rising use of lawn care services is indicative of homeowners’ appreciation of the convenience and craftsmanship professional services can provide.

While the impact professional landscapers can have on a property’s aesthetic appeal is considerable, homeowners also benefit from working with professional landscapers in various other ways.

• Time savings: One of the biggest benefits of leaving lawn care to the professionals is the amount of time it will save for the average homeowner. Lawns generally need to be mowed once per week during the spring and summer seasons and, depending on the size of the property, that can take an hour or more. Add the time it takes to clean up clippings, mulch landscaping beds and edge the property, and homeowners can expect

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956.585.1618

April 17, 2015

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Add value to your home with these renovations

omeowners choose renovation projects for a variety of reasons.

Although many improvements are made to increase functionality and comfort of a home, several others are seen as worthwhile investments.

These investments can add up to a higher resale value when the time comes to sell a home.

Certain projects have a history of providing a greater return on homeowners’ investments than others. The following renovation tips can add beauty to your home and generate great returns when you put the home up for sale.

• Invest in your kitchen.

Kitchen remodels are a safe bet when it comes to putting money into improving a home. Residents tend to spend a great deal of time in the kitchen, but a dated, poorly functioning kitchen can detract from the value of a home, even if the rest of the home is in good shape. It’s possible to recoup between 60 and 120 percent of your kitchen remodel investment, especially

if the kitchen matches up well with the rest of your home.

Homeowners should know that a deluxe renovation may not be necessary, as relatively moderate improvements can create a whole new look for a kitchen.

• Look to paint. One of the least expensive improvement materials, but one that has a significant impact, is paint.

Neutral, modern colors can easily liven up any space.

If you paint with low-VOC paint, you also can advertise an eco-friendly home, which is very desireable these days.

• Put in another bathroom. Multiple bathrooms are an attractive selling point, particularly in older homes that may not have been equipped with more than one bathroom. Finding extra space for a bathroom can be tricky, but consider closets, areas under stairs or even taking some space away from another room. Popular home-improvement television channel HGTV advises that half-bathrooms require at

least 18 square feet of space, while full baths need 30 to 35 square feet for a stand-up shower or bathtub.

• Renovate the HVAC system. Aesthetic improvements aren’t the only ones that add value to a home. Many home buyers are eager to purchase a home that has a new heating and cooling system, as buyers understand that furnaces and air conditioning units are substantial investments that can last for years. Other improvements, such as adding attic insulation or replacing older windows and doors with more energy efficient options, also are smart bets.

• Add illumination to rooms. A dark home is a dreary home. Adding light can mean including more overhead and accent lighting.

Under-cabinet task lighting is a nice touch. Inclusion of skylights and sun tubes can bring natural light into rooms that may not have south- or west-facing windows.

• Put a deck addition outdoors. Outdoor living spaces

remain functional and free from debris.

Inspect windows and doors and re-caulk where necessary. Because a proper seal is essential in both heating and cooling seasons, this job should be performed twice a year to protect

against drafts and moisture, and to keep insects out. Worn weather stripping should also be replaced.

Check your insulation.

Attics should be insulated to R50, which can usually be achieved with an insulation depth of at least 16 inches.

Top up with an insulation product that is water repellant and fire resistant, like Roxul Comfortbatt. Don’t forget to ensure that your basement headers are insulated properly to prevent overworking your furnace and air conditioner.

Other simple jobs include fixing leaky faucets, repairing and resealing decks, inspecting the foundation and scheduling a check-up for your HVAC system. The key is being honest about what you can handle and, when in doubt, call in the pros.

Tackle home maintenance projects to save money

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uch like the upkeep on your car, tackling home maintenance on a regular basis will prevent problems from developing and save you from larger repair costs down the road. Some projects should be left to the professionals, but there are plenty of weekend jobs that any homeowner can easily handle, like these: Inspect your roof and make minor repairs. Winter can be especially hard on a roof. Look for ice, hail or water damage. Replace any cracked or missing shingles and clear any debris.

Clean your gutters. It’s not glamorous work, but your home’s gutters play an essential role in moving water away from your home and preventing damage.

Consider installing gutter guards to ensure your gutters

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Over 100 Years of Service to the

Rio Grande Valley “Protecting what matters the most.”

INSURANCE AGENCY

YOUR HOME TOWN INDEPENDENT AGENT Serving The Rio Grande Valley Since 1911

220 E. Tom Landry

Phone: 581-2183

Finding space to install an extra bathroom in a home can be a worthwhile investment.

have become more desireable, especially as the “staycation” has grown in popularity. Decks and patios can make backyards more appealing. The scope of your investment will depend on the size of the deck and design. Doing the work yourself can cut the cost of decks in half, but only if you have the specific tools or experience to tackle such a project.

• Improve curb appeal.

Adding attractive landscaping and freshening up the entryway to a home can add considerable value to your home, as buyers judge homes by their exteriors. Completely renovated interiors may never be seen if buyers pass up your home because of a less attractive exterior. Classy, subtle changes, like well-placed shrubbery and a green lawn, can work wonders. An inviting front door and well-lit entryway also add curb appeal to a home.

Before making improvements, homeowners should determine if a given project will provide a solid return on their investment.

LANDSCAPING

ings. Such coatings typically are acrylic-based liquids applied like a paint or sealer.

Some composite decks may be crafted with texture or a built-in coating to reduce slipping. In addition, use nonstick mats on decks and patios to provide a little extra footing where people enter and exit the pool.

Mulch and stone Homeowners often prefer some combination of mulch or stone to serve as a transition between the pool, concrete or paver hardscape and the lawn. Stone may be more practical for those with inground pools because it will not easily blow onto the water surface. With an aboveground pool, mulch or stone can do the trick, serving as a barrier so that pool water does not overly drench the surrounding lawn or damage

grass after exposure to pool chemicals. Mulch and stone also will provide drainage from water runoff from the pool and rain.

Another advantage of having an additional barrier between the pool and lawn is that lawn clippings will not be shot into the pool when mowing. Stone and mulch can be dressed up with statues, lawn ornaments and tolerant plants.

Finishing touches Plants can provide the finishing touches for a poolside landscape. Homeowners should keep in mind that pools are not often shaded from the sun, so plants placed around the pool will need to be sun- and drought-tolerant.

Succulents, such as aloe and jade, may work, as can the perennial shrub yucca. Moderately growing grasses will

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offer a privacy barrier.

Keep trees and flowering plants far enough away from the pool’s edge so they do not contribute to debris that falls into the pool, which can complicate maintenance.

Also, flowering plants may attract insects and other wildlife that may interfere with your enjoyment of the pool.

It’s better to create a friendly environment for wildlife further away from the pool.

Homeowners who need some advice planning the landscaping around their pools can rely on the expertise of landscape architects as well as employees at lawn and garden centers. Pool companies may work with landscapers and offer recommendations to people unaccustomed to working around pools.

lifestyle

April 17, 2015

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NEWS | SPORTS | ENTERTAINMENT | PHOTOS

‘Bird Migration Demystified’ presentation at Estero Llano Grande State Park

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stero Llano Grande State Park will host a “Bird Migration Demystified” presentation with Mary Gustafson on April 22 at 7 p.m. Visitors will learn about bird migration, how birds move through the region, and the best places to see migration.

The spectacle of bird migration is one of the highlights of living in the Lower Rio Grande Valley. People in the Lower Rio Grande Valley live in an area that is at the junction of multiple flyways and can witness a world class hawk migration, a species-rich landbird migration, and see other birds such as shorebirds as they migrate.

Gustafson, Coordinator of the American Bird Conservancy’s Rio Grande Joint Venture, will carefully ex-

plain the mechanics behind the extraordinary journeys millions of bird complete every year. She will share interesting information about migration such as why some species fly around the Gulf of Mexico while others fly over it as well as which birds migrate at night while others migrate during the day. Gustafson will also provide some tips for observing migrating birds as they make their way through the Rio Grande Valley.

This presentation is a part of a monthly speaker series sponsored by the Friends of Estero Llano Grande State Park. Estero Llano Grande State Park is located at 3301 South International Blvd in Weslaco.

For more information, call (956) 565-3919.

Mary Gustafson will be presenting this informative talk about the amazing annual spectacle that is bird migration.

Courtesy photo

Enchanting India returns to IMAS

T Video Game Tournament scheduled to help feed hunger

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wo gaming stores are partnering together for a unique way to support the Valley’s food bank.

Gamestop and The Barracks are spearheading a food drive to benefit the Food Bank RGV at the “Take the Fight Out of Hunger” gaming tournament, Saturday, April 25, 2015 at The Barracks, 2012 Nolana, McAllen. Player registration is from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

They will be hosting four tournaments throughout the day. A Black Ops II FFA on

Xbox 360 begins at 12 p.m.; League of Legends one-onone on PC at 12:30 p.m.; Mortal Kombat X on Xbox One at 3 p.m.; and Super Smash Bros. on Wii U at 3 .pm.

Participants are invited to give a $5 donation or five non-perishable canned foods.

Vendors are also invited to participate in this event by making prize donation for tournament winners.

For more information, call Gilberto at (956) 960-4341.

he International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) Cultural Series presents the Enchanting India Festival on Sunday, April 19, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Now in its second year, the event seeks to highlight the rich diversity of the Rio Grande Valley’s Indian community. Visitors of all ages will be able to enjoy a number of traditional activities and customs that are celebrated throughout India.

This year’s lineup of events will offer visitors the opportunity to learn more

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about India’s rich culture by enjoying traditional foods, Rangoli Folk art and Henna, enjoy Bollywood performance and Indian-inspired Fashion Shows, and much more.

The Festival is included in the price of general admission. General admission is free for IMAS Members; $7 for adults; $5 for seniors or students with ID; and $4 for children ages four to 12.

For more information, please call (956) 682-0123 or visit www.imasonline. org.

Free Society News Announcements

Quinceanera, engagement, wedding, milestone anniversary* and milestone birthday** announcements are run FREE of charge in the Progress Times.

The quinceanera, wedding, anniversary and birthday announcements should be submitted no later than two months after the event date. Engagement announcements must be submitted no later than three weeks prior to the wedding date.

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.

For questions or to obtain the appropriate form to submit with a photo, send an email to communitynews@progresstimes.net, call the Progress Times at 585-4893.

Please include a contact name and phone number for all inquiries.

Events Calendar

Apr il 11 – The RGV Quilt Guild will hold their monthly meeting from 9 a.m. to noon at STC in Weslaco, 400 N. Border, in Building G, Room 191, and Parking Lot #1. Program speaker will be Alice Gibson and scholarship presentations will be held.

Apr il 11 – The Mission Lighthouse chapter of Aglow International will meet at 4 p.m. at Taco Ole, 2316 N. Conway in Mission free merienda. The power of prayer is this month’s topic. For more information, call Liza Rayo at 776-8505 or Connie Escamilla at 279-7887.

Apr il 11 – The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation will host its annual three-mile Great Strides Walk Saturday, April 11 at the UTPA Wellness and Recreational Sports Complex in Edinburg. Check-in begins at 8 a.m. with the walk starting at 9 a.m. To find out more information about the walk, register, or find a team near you, go to fightcf.cff.org/.

Apr il 11 – Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge will host a Family Fish Camp at Adolph Thomae, Jr. County Park from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The camp is for families and their children between the ages of six and 16. Children will learn the basics of fishing and other important tips. The camp is free and includes all fishing equipment, gifts, lunch and certificates. Space is limited, so visit www.fishingsfuture.org to register online.

Apr il 11 – Edinburg Scenic Wetlands and World Birding Center will host a wildflower van tour from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. to see native flowers and learn about the habitat they create. The trip fee is $22 for members and $25 for non-members. Lunch, snacks, drinks and transportation are included. Reservations are required two days in advance. Space is limited. Call 956-381-9922 to reserve your space. The Edinburg Scenic Wetlands and World Birding Center is located at 714 Raul Longoria Rd. Apr il 13 – The University of Texas-Pan American will host Emmy Award-winning actress and activist America Ferrera as its next guest in the Distinguished Speakers Series for the 2014-2015 school year. Ferrera will speak at 7:30 p.m. at the UTPA Fieldhouse.

The event is free and open to the public. Students, staff, and faculty with valid ID’s will be admitted at 7 p.m. Doors will open for the general public at 7:20 p.m. For special accommodations, call the Student Union Office at (956) 665-7989.

Apr il 14 – Speer Memorial Library will hold a discussion about the book The Fault in Our Stars at 6:30 p.m. in the library’s community room. Speer Memorial Library is located at 12th and Kika De La Garza in Mission.

Apr il 15 – As part of National Library Week, Speer Memorial Library will host Henry Schaefer to speak about his experiences in Nazi Germany. He will provide attendees a glimpse into the history during World War II. Everyone is welcome to attend and the event is free to the public. For any additional information, please contact Robert L. Rivera, at 580-8479 or email him at robert@missiontexas.us or visit www. mission.lib.tx.us or www.facebook.com/speermemoriallibrary.

Apr il 18 – Chick-fil-A in Mission, Sharyland Towne Crossing, will host a nugget eating contest. Prizes will be given for light weight, boys and girls ages 14-17; middle weight, women 18 and up; and heavy weight, men 18 and up. First through third places will win free food. First place will win one year, second place wins six months and third place will win three months of free food. Chick-fil-A for one year is equal to one #1 combo a week for a full year (52 #1 Combo coupons). During the invite, visitors can enjoy the Chick-fil-A cows, games, music and a car show. For more information or to register for the contest, call Jennifer at 956-682-0055. They are located at 2501 E. Expressway 83.

Apr il 18 – Quinta Mazatlan will host their 2015 Earth Day Festival, Vida Verde from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. There will be 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. Also back this year are the Live Ocelot with the Texas Zoo, Wild Birds of Prey, Danny and His Reptiles, Contacto Animal Show, Dinosaur George, Eco-Magician and other shows.

Apr il 18 – UTRGV Chess Community Day will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the Student Union Lawn at UT Brownsville Campus. There will be an introduction of the UTRGV chess coach, ceremonial chess board signing, life-sized lawn chess, open chess simulation with a Grand Master and free UTRGV chess board available to local chess students while supplies last, plus other giveaways. For more information, call 956-882-5105.

Apr il 18 – The Adopt-A-Beach Spring Cleanup will begin at 8:30 a.m. and run until noon at Andy Bowie Park, South Padre Island City Beach Access #3 and end of Hwy. 4 at the beach. You can find out more information at www.TexasAdoptABeach.org or contact the GLO at 1-877-TX COAST. Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ texasadoptabeach and follow us on Twitter at @TXadoptabeach.

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.

Apr il 18 – Frontera Audubon will host an Earth Day Family Day from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. to celebrate the earth through hands-on crafts and activities. A $2 donation is requested per accompanying adult. Hot dogs will be served for lunch. Frontera Audubon is located at 1101 S. Texas Blvd. in Weslaco.

Apr il 24 – UVAL member Veronia Jaeger will have an exhibit opening at Beyond the Arts Gallery in Harlingen, 114 A. Street, at 7 p.m.

Apr il 25 – Navy Junior Reserve Office Trainings Corps Anniversary 5K Run will be held in San Benito. For more information, visit jrotc5k.com or call Chief Gaytan at 956276-6075.

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

April 17, 2015

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Officials break ground on Alton apartments

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ground breaking ceremony was held Thursday for a 140-unit multi-family complex on Stewart Road in Alton Texas called Orchard Estates. This is one of three housing complexes that will be developing this year utilizing housing tax credits. Construction is estimated to take 11 to 14 months to complete this project.

Back in February 2014, the City and the City of Alton Development Corporation (CADC) supported an application for Orchard Estates housing development to the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) for 2014 competitive nine-percent housing tax credits to develop Orchard Estates apartment complex along Stewart Road just North of Mile 4.

The capital investment for this project is approximately

$18 million in private investment. The CADC approved a loan commitment to Orchard Estates in the amount of $257,280 in the form of a permanent loan. The loan was utilized to comply with TDHCA requirements in order to qualify for the maximum points under the rules for the Housing Tax Credit Program.

This 10-acre gated development will host a 140-unit mixed income development with 1, 2, and 3 bedroom rentals. Some of the amenities include a full perimeter fence with controlled access gates, swimming pool, picnic tables, grills, fully equipped playground with green areas.

The clubhouse will have a management office that will be facilitated by the Texas Grey Oaks Management Team. This local team has extensive experience in managing housing developments

deception and seduction. It is one of three collaborations Mozart had with librettist Lorenzo de Ponte, the others being “The Marriage of Figaro” and “Don Giovanni.”

The title, “Cosí fan tutte (le belle),” is often translated to “Women are like that” and suggests that women are fickle and easily seduced. However, the opera points out that men, too, have challenges in courtship, Sadlier said.

Both performances begin at 7:30 p.m. at the UTPA Library Auditorium. Admission is free to UTPA students with valid UTPA ID, $3 for other students and $5 for faculty,

staff and the general public.

All seats are general admission, with no reserved seating. All money raised will go directly to fund future operatic productions.

A golf cart shuttle to the library will be available at the Visitors Center for those parking in Visitor Parking areas near UTPA's main entrance on University Drive.

The shuttle will also be available to return opera attendees to the Visitor's Center following the performance.

For special accommodations, call (956) 665-2860.

For more information, email sadlierda@utpa.edu.

UTPA

from pg 2

of this nature. The clubhouse will host a business center with computers, fitness room with equipment, meeting room, food preparation area with a fully furnished common area lounge. Units will have covered entries and patios, refrigerators with ice makers, self-cleaning ovens, microwaves, kitchen disposal units and apartments will also have 9-foot ceilings.

LJISD Performing Arts hosts last performances of year

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a Joya ISD Performing Arts only has a few concerts left for this school year. The LJHS Folklorico/Mariachi and LJHS Theatre/Choir both have two performances.

LJHS Folklorico/Mariachi concerts are planned for Saturday, April 25 at 2 and 7 p.m. and Sunday, April 26 at 2 p.m. Grupo Folklorico Tabasco and Mariachi “Los Coyotes” will perform with special guest Conjunto “Los Diamantes.” Tickets are $8 and all seats are general admission.

LJHS Theatre/Choir will present “West Side Story” on Friday, May 1 at 7 p.m. and Saturday at 2 and 7 p.m.

The Performing Arts Center is located on Coyote Drive near La Joya High School. For ticket information, call (956) 323-2898.

Left to right: Roel Gomez, USDA RD area director; Jean Latsha, director of multifamily finance TDHCA; Kathryn Saar, competitive tax credits program administrator TDHCA; Arturo Galvan Jr., Alton mayor pro-tem; Steve Lollis, president of Texas Grey Oaks Develop; Salvador Vela, Alton mayor; Felipe Gomez, GACC president; Ricardo Garza, CADC president; Emilio Cantu, Alton city commissioner; Calixto Hernandez, CADC vice president; Steve Pena, CADC CEO.

The City of Mission has placed large containers at the following locations for the public to throw away any large bulky items I.E. mattresses and furniture (no tires & no refrigerators because of the freon) FREE to the citizens NO CONTRACTORS!!

Jaycee Park - Los Ebanos Rd. & Barnes St. Birdwell Park - Stewart Rd. & 24th City Warehouse - 609 Canal Water Tower Entrance - N Lucksinger & Bus 83 South of Fire Substation - 2 1/2 Mile & Inspiration Nell Toll Park - South Parking Area Francisco St. & 2 Mile Line - North of Drain Ditch Los Indios & Beatty St.- Madero Park - at Water Tower Melba Center - Between Conway & Mayberry at Drain Ditch (Containers Available thru May 2nd)

For more information contact the City of Mission

956-580-8780

April 17, 2015

page 10

Huskies and Lady Lobos claim track district titles

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By Luciano Guerra he Juarez-Lincoln Huskies and the Palmview Lady Lobos ran circles around their competition last week as they took the boys and the girls District 30-6A titles. Held at La Joya ISD Stadium the two-day district meet included last Thursday’s field and long distance running events as well as Saturday’s dashes, runs and relays.

Among the individual district champions for the Big 7 schools’ boys were Juarez-Lincoln’s Carlos Barrera (triple jump), Yariel Matute (400m dash) and Michele Lara (1,600m run); Palmview’s Victor Bocanegra (high jump), Eliseo Rodriguez (3,200m run), Tristen Myende (110m hurdles) and Rene Pecina (300m hurdles) and La Joya High’s Ricardo Mendoza (800m run). In addition to the individual district titles the Huskies boys also took first place in the 4 x 100m, the 4 x 200m and the 4 x 400m relay races.

Individual district champions for the Big 7 schools’ girls were Palmview’s Mirna Tamez (long jump), Brianna Robles (3,200m and 1,600m run), Alyssa Garza (100m dash), Mia Hinojosa (200m dash) and Juarez-Lincoln’s Karen Guerra (discus). The Lady Lobos also took the district titles in the 4 x 100m, the 4 x 200m and the 4 x 400m relay races while the Lady Huskies came in third in all three events.

The fact that this was the first girls’ track and field district championship in Palmview High School’s seven year history is not something that Lady Lobos’ head coach Claudia Bazan or any members of the team are taking lightly.

“It’s something very big

Big 7 Schools’ District 30-6A Track and Field Meet Results

Boys’ Team Standings 1st Place: Juarez-Lincoln, 168 2nd Place: McAllen Memorial, 152 3rd Place: Palmview, 120 4th Place: Mission High, 59 5th Place: McAllen Rowe, 55 6th Place: McAllen High, 36 7th Place: La Joya High, 29 Girls’ Team Standings 1st Place: Palmview, 175 2nd Place: McAllen Memorial, 118 3rd Place: McAllen Rowe, 98 4th Place: McAllen High, 97 5th Place: Juarez-Lincoln, 92 6th Place: Mission High, 28 7th Place: La Joya High, 18 because we’ve had really good teams in the past but we’ve never won a district title before,” shared junior Mia Hinojosa who competed in the 4 x 100m relay, the 4 x 200m relay and the 200m dash. “It’s really an honor to be part of this team.”

“I knew that we had an opportunity to win this year because we had some girls come in to compete in the hurdle events which is something we’ve lacked before,” added senior Alyssa Garza who competed in the long jump, the 4 x 100m relay, the 4 x 200m relay and the 100m dash. “The fact that we won district in our own home stadium made it extra special because our friends and family were there to watch us compete and excel with our performances.”

Lady Lobos’ freshman Brianna Robles expressed what being part of a district championship team meant to her when she said, “It feels really good. I’m really happy to have been able to experi-

Keeping our community safe is everyone’s responsibility. If you observe suspicious activity or witness a crime, be a good neighbor and report it to the police. And remember, you don’t have to give your name or personal information to report a crime.

Brianna Robles, Natali Gonzalez, Mirna Tamez, Brittany Cano, Mia Hinojosa, Alyssa Garza, Brenda Martinez, Denise Esqueda, Naila Flores, Priscilla Flores, Felissa Ponce De Leon, Mariana Hernandez and Ana Tostado. Not pictured is Maddy Chapa.

ence it with my teammates.

We’ve worked hard together and they were there to push me and motivate me.”

As the only head girls track coach Palmview High

has ever had, Bazan has waited seven years for this title.

“This is something that we’ve been working towards since day one,” explained Bazan. “It never panned out the

way we wanted it to before but we knew that this was our year. We started a bit bumpy early in the season and we lost a couple of kids but we found the missing pieces and

the kids came through at the district meet.”

“I’m excited for them because this is starting a tradi-

By Luciano Guerra

had to overcome this season. The fact that their brand new field and batting cages had not been completed on schedule meant that the Lady Diamondbacks had to hold their practices on the football field and they had to play all of their first round games on the road. Even so, Pioneer compiled an impressive 5-1 record while outscoring their opponents 52-20 during that six-game span.

What is even more impressive is that the Lady Diamondbacks have achieved this success with only one senior on their roster. So it was necessary for younger and much more inexperienced players to step up to the plate and play beyond their years.

Two such players are Pioneer’s left fielder Ashley Briseno and catcher Karina Lopez – both sophomores.

When asked if she, like her coach, had playoff aspirations for her team going into the season Briseno said, “I thought that we had a pretty good chance because most of us moved over here from Sharyland High and we had a good team there.”

Lopez then added, “We have the talent on this team and we have the chemistry.

We’re all friends on and off the field, so that helps a little bit more.”

Commenting on what it means to be a member of the first-ever Pioneer softball team Lopez said, “It’s pretty amazing to know that we’re starting a new legacy and tradition. Whatever we do it will be carried on by other teams, whether it’s good or bad.”

With a state champion girls’ powerlifter and with the Lady Diamondbacks soccer team just having advanced into the regional semifinal round of the playoffs, the Pioneer High sports program has already achieved more success than most first year

programs. Briseno thinks that the Lady Diamondbacks’ softball team has what it takes to continue this newly established winning tradition.

“It’s going to take a lot of work,” Briseno said. “But I think we can do it as a team.

We have the drive and we’re capable of making a run deep into the playoffs. But first we have to make the playoffs, so that’s what we’re focusing on right now.”

See TRACK 12

Lady Diamondbacks overcoming all odds T Sharyland Pioneer Softball Roster

4 5 6 7 8 11 12 14 16 17 18 19 23 24

Crystal Rangel Jayda Garcia Michelle Gonzalez Gracie Calzada Arlene Smith Faye Ramos Brooke Garza Yvette Gomez Nataly Rodriguez Mariah Youngblood Camille Vasquez Sabrina Cantu Emily Michki Fabiola Gonzalez

he Sharyand Pioneer Lady Diamondbacks’ softball team has had plenty of opportunities to throw in the towel on this season. With expectations for a first year program in a highly competitive district generally being low to begin with, nobody would’ve been surprised had they been at the bottom of the standings at this point in the season.

However, the only expectations that really matter are those of the Lady Diamondbacks players and coaches and so far this season they are living up to their own lofty expectations extremely well.

“Like I told the girls and their parents at the beginning of the season, we’re not going to wait until next year,” said Lady Diamondbacks’ head coach Orlando Garcia.

“We wanted to make an impact this year and our goal this year was to make the playoffs – that was number one.”

“We were not concerned with winning a district championship this year because that is something that will come later as we come together,” added Garcia. “I firmly believe that people remember the teams that go further in the playoffs than they do the ones that win district championships. So like I told the girls we want to be one of the last teams standing by getting into the playoffs and winning a playoff game.”

Eight games into District 31-5A play, Pioneer is tied for second place with a 6-2 record. Needing only one additional win to clinch a playoff berth, the odds of the Lady Diamondbacks making postseason play in this their inaugural season are extremely high.

Being a first year program is not the only challenge the Lady Diamondbacks have

Juarez-Lincoln’s Rodriguez Signs with Lindenwood University Juarez-Lincoln High School wrestler Ezekiel “Zeke” Rodriguez signed his letter of intent with Lindenwood University in Belleville, Illinois, on Tuesday, Apr. 14. In front of a slew of friends, coaches and his mother, Rodriguez inked his name and made it official. Rodriguez finished this wrestling season as the District Champion in the 145lb weight division. He earned his trip to the Regional competition and ended his senior year at Juarez-Lincoln High School with a 23-2 record.

Rodriguez plans to major in Business at Lindenwood University where he will begin his college career in the fall.

In addition to his solid athletic ability, Rodriguez is also a stand-out student. His athletic scholarship is the largest amount awarded to any Husky athlete that has signed with Lindenwood University.

April 17, 2015

obituaries

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Daniel Diaz Sr. ISSION - Daniel Diaz Sr., 80, passed away Saturday, April 11, 2015 at Mission Regional Medical Center in Mission.

He was born on April 20, 1934 in Mission.

He is survived by his children, Jose Guadalupe Diaz, Daniel Diaz Jr., Maria de Jesus Diaz, Jovita Diaz Lopez, Oralia Diaz Rosales, Esperanza Diaz, and Gloria Diaz Suarez; and one sister, Martha Diaz Cantu.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Rebecca R. Diaz; and his daughter, Delia Diaz.

A funeral mass was held April 16 at Our Lady of Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Mission. Interment followed at Laurel Hill Cemetery in Mission.

Evangelina Garcia A JOYA - Evangelina Garcia, 89, passed away Saturday, April 11, 2015 at McAllen Medical Center in McAllen. She was born to Manuel Flores and Tiodula Mendiola on June 14, 1925 in San Miguel de Camargo, Tamaulipas.

She is survived by her children, Maria Alicia Moreno, Edelmiro Garcia, Sr., Jose Rolando Garcia, Maria Magdalena Carmona, Jose Mario Garcia, Jose Luis Garcia, Gustavo Garcia, Ruben Garcia, Roberto Garcia and Juan Manuel Garcia; siblings, Maria Reyna, Manuela Partida, Alvina Zuniga; 20 grandchildren; and 19 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death her husband, Heriberto Garcia, and parents.

Services were held April 14 at Our Lady Queen of Angels Cemetery in La Joya. Interment followed at Lord & I Cemetery in Palmview.

Hector Hernandez ULLIVAN CITY Hector Hernandez, 80, passed away on Monday, April 13, 2015, at McAllen Medical Center in McAllen, Texas. He was born in Cuidad Guerrero, Tamaulipas, Mexico on September 17, 1934, to Antonio Hernandez and Elvira Benavidez.

He is survived by his children, Blanca Estela Reyes, Hector David Hernandez,

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Sergio Javier Hernandez, Maria Magdalena Contreras, Maria Margarita Campos, Rosa Ana Conde, Oscar Joel Hernandez, Martha Isabel Morales, Jose Luis Hernandez, and Antonio Manuel Hernandez; ; and siblings, Imelda Lozano, Cesar Hernandez, Dora A. Campos and Derly Hernandez; 26 grandchildren; and 23 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Manuela G. Hernandez, and his parents, Antonio and Elvira Hernandez Services were held April at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Sullivan City. Cremation followed at Val Verde Memorial Gardens in Donna. Serving as Pall Bearers: Alan Contreras, Eddie Campos, Michael Reyes, Bobby Conde, Erik Yerena, Jose Luis Hernandez Jr., Oscar Joel Hernandez, and David Hernandez.

Gabriel Kotzur cCOOK - Gabriel Kotzur, 75, passed away on April 13, 2015, at his residence in McCook.

He was a 1960 graduate of Edinburg High School. Following school he served in the US Air Force. When his time in the service was over, he returned to McCook and was a diesel mechanic and farmer.

Gabriel is survived by his wife, of 48 years, Lillian Kotzur of McCook; his children, Carl Kotzur of McCook, Mark Kotzur of McCook, Darian Kotzur of Edinburg, Karen Kotzur of San Antonio; siblings, Vincent Kotzur of San Antonio, Frances Kotzur of McCook, Albert Kotzur of McCook; three grandsons; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Vincent and Susie Kotzur; sister, Katherine Kotzur; and a brother, John Kotzur.

Services were held April 16at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in McCook.

Burial followed at McCook Cemetery in McCook.

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Margarita Mares ISSION - Margarita Mares, 67 passed away on Saturday, April 11, 2015 at her residence in Mission. She was born on October 17, 1947 to Juan Hernandez and Victoria Solis.

She is survived by husband, Pedro Mares Ortega; children, Jose G. Hernandez, Juan Hernandez, Pete Mares Jr., Judith Hernandez and Gustavo Mares; her brother, Guadalupe Hernandez; 14 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Services were held April 14at San Juan Diego Catholic Church in McAllen. Interment followed at Valley Memorial Gardens in Mission.

Matilde Ramos McLain ISSION - Matilde Ramos McLain, 84, passed away April 13, 2015, at her residence in Mission. She was born on March 13, 1931in Gillett, Texas and lived in Mission all her life.

She is survived by husband, James Ray McLain; brother, Rodolfo Ramos; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Faustino and Maria R. Ramos; and 11 brothers and sisters, Refugia R Garza Castillo, Felipe Ramos, Leonardo Ramos, Elvira R. Espinosa, Salome Ramos, Asencion Ramos, Ignacio Ramos, Celia Molina, Jesus Ramos, Faustino Ramos, and Hilario Ramos.

Services were held April 15 at Virgil Wilson Memorial Chapel in Mission. Interment followed at Valley Memorial Gardens in Mission.

Jon Lee Stone ISSION – Jon Lee Stone, 75, died Thursday, Apr. 9, 2015, at Solara Hospital in McAllen. Jon was born in Salinas, KS on December 12, 1939 to John and Irene Stone.

He resided in Mission and Kimberling, MO. Jon retired the Union Pacific Railroad in 2001.

He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Yvonne; son, Jon R. Stone of Kansas City, KS; daughter, Sonya L. DeGrande of Spring Hill, KS. Jon; four grandchildren and one great granddaughter.

He was preceded in death

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by his parents and his brother, Donald Dean Stone.

He will be buried in Roselawn Cemetery in Salina, KS. Rosalinda Perales Vela ADERO - Rosalinda Perales Vela, 67, passed away Monday, April 13, 2015 at her residence in Madero. She was born on June 6, 1947 in Mexico to Castulo and Irene Perales.

She is survived by her husband, Arturo Vela; children, Mabel Guevara, Maria Grenier, Art Vela, Anabel Ryan, Elsa Vela, Darrell Vela and David Vela; siblings, Jorge Perales, Jose Luis Perales, Castulo Perales, Jr., Miguel Angel Perales, Juan Manuel Perales, Maria Isabel Brown, Marco Antonio Perales; and numerous grandchildren.

Rosalinda was preceded in death by her son, Orlando Vela; and her parents.

Services were held April 16 at Funeraria del Angel in Mission. Interment followed at Valley Memorial Gardens in Mission.

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Notices

Belia Alaniz MISSION - Belia Alaniz, 77, died Sunday, Apr. 12, 2015, at LifeCare Hospital in McAllen.

Services were held April 14 at Ric Brown Family Funeral Home in Mission.

Flora Hinojosa Garcia PALMVIEW - Flora Hinojosa Garcia died Thursday, Apr. 9, 2015, at her Palmview residence.

Funeral services were held April 13 at Ric Brown Family Funeral Home in Mission. Burial followed at San Jose Cemetery.

John Lara Jr. MISSION - John Lara Jr., 63, died Friday, April 10, 2015, at Mission Regional Medical Center.

Benita Marroquin MISSION - Services for Benita Marroquin were held April 15 at Funeraria Del Angel in Mission.

Patricia Montalvo MISSION - Patricia Montalvo, 56, died Monday, April 13, 2015, at McAllen Medical Center in McAllen.

Matias Ocon MISSION - Matias Ocon, 73, died Sunday, April 10, 2015, at McAllen Heart Hos-

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

page 11

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

IMPLEMENT COMPANY, INC. MISSION 585-1618

  

 



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

 

Pictured are members of the Mission High School One Act Play team and directors after their performance at the bi-district level of competition. Courtesy photo

MHS One Act Play advances to area competitions

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or the first time in about nine years, a One Act Play team from

pital.

Services were held April 15 at Ric Brown Family Funeral Home in Mission.

Jacob Marcus Treviño MISSION - Services for Jacob Marcus Treviño were held April 10 at Ric Brown Family Funeral Home in Mission. Burial followed at Valley Memorial Gardens in McAllen.

Marina Valdez MISSION - Marina Valdez, 92, died Saturday, April 11, 2015 at Mission Rehabilitation and Nursing Center.

Services were held April 14 at Virgil Wilson Memorial Chapel in Mission. Burial followed at Lord & I Cemetery in Palmview.

Rogelio Vidales PENITAS - PENITAS Infant Rogelio Vidales died Saturday, April 11, 2015, at Woman’s Hospital at Renaissance in Edinburg.

Graveside services were held April 15 at Lord and I Cemetery in Palview.

Memorial Funeral Home of San Juan is in charge of funeral arrangements.

Mission High School is advancing out of the district and bi-district competitions, and on to the area round of competitions. In addition to advancing in competition, several honors were earned by students at the bi-district level.

Anthonie Raymundo earned best actor nods. Fernanda Hernandez was named all-star cast. Joseph Rodriguez earned honorable mention.

The cast and crew consists of: Christopher Barboza, Fernando Cruz, Joseph Rodriguez, Julian Diaz, Anthonie Raymundo, Adrian Silva, Fernanda Hernandez, Gloria Trevino, Cecilia Gonzalez, Enrique Cantu, Mark Ramos, Hanna Castro, Matthew Castillo, Itzel Flores, Sophia Gonzalez. They are directed by Adrian Guerrero, Silvia Serrano, Joe Hernandez.

The MHS team is performing “Rashomon Rashomon,” by Fay Kanin and Michael Kanin.

Their next competition will on Saturday, April 18, at approximately 4 p.m., at the PSJA Southwest High School. The performance is open to the public.

page 12

April 17, 2015

www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

Grant awards La Joya ISD teachers an opportunity of a lifetime

I Rolando Puente

Investigators make arrest in theft cases

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idalgo County Sheriff’s investigators have recovered $40,000 in stolen property and made an arrest in connection to two theft cases.

Acting on information of a stolen trailer possibly located in the 3300 block of Melanie Street in rural Mission on Monday, investigators searched the property and found a stolen trailer filled with DJ equipment and a second stolen concession trailer, states a news release.

Both trailers had been partially painted, the news release states.

Rolando Puente, 36, was arrested and charged with two counts of felony theft.

Hidalgo County Pct. 4, Place 1 Justice of the Peace Charlie Espinoza set Puente’s bond at $40,000.

TRACK from pg 10

tion in track and field that we’ve had in cross country,” added Bazan. “This win is setting the foundation for track and field. Next year is another year and we are going to want to win it again.”

As a team the Lady Lobos outscored their nearest rival, McAllen Memorial, 175 – 118 at the district meet. As for the Huskies boys they had a much closer finish outscoring the McAllen Memorial boys by a margin of 168 – 152 last Thursday and Saturday.

magine being asked, “If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?” – and then actually going there. For two teachers at Juan Seguin Elementary, this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to go anywhere on Earth became a reality only few get to experience.

Pre-K teacher Mayra Molina, and kindergarten teacher Michelle Rodriguez, together applied for a grant that gave them the option to travel to any part of the world.

The non-profit organization known as the Rural School and Community Trust, granted the educators an all-expense paid trip to their chosen destination – Bali, Indonesia, this summer.

Molina and Rodriguez first learned about the opportunity through a school district email enticing teachers to travel anywhere on the planet. At first glance, the proposition seemed too good to be true, but the pair fit the criteria and the application process turned out to be simple.

The Rural Trust Global Teacher Fellowship Program awarded 13 fellowships this year to educators from across the country to support the professional and personal development of rural teachers. The self-designed summer learning experience al-

AUDIT from pg 3

city, but that funding is allowing the city to do more with its budget. A bid to finish a park on Military Road came out $111,000 over budget. The project includes a walking trail, lighting, retention ponds and a baseball, soccer and football field.

The $500,000 project is being funded by Urban County, but Urban County indicated it could not cover the $111,000, and if the city did not complete the project, it would have to return the $180,000 already spent on it.

“So guess where we’re going to get that money?”

Salinas asked. “The amusement machines.”

lowed the selected teachers to choose a destination, book all the travel details, and go out and learn through exploring.

Essentially, the travelers will gain strategies in their journeys, which they will bring back and implement in their classrooms.

As part of the application, candidates were asked why and what they hoped to discover from their preferred location. For Molina and Rodriguez their essay, “Language Between Borders,” meant submerging themselves in a foreign language and figuring it all out – just as their students do every day.

“It’s heartbreaking to see my Spanish-speaking students struggling to understand English, and so by traveling to an unknown country, we will feel what our students feel,” Molina said. “Being on the other side will give us a

VILLARREAL

52, said he wasn’t convinced public office was right for him. He enjoyed volunteer work and was involved in organizations like the American Cancer Society and the Boys and Girls Club, but running for office can be grueling, he said. He saw it when his dad served as mayor of Rio Grande City from 1993-1995.

Villarreal started out small, earning a seat as an alderman, then becoming a city commissioner when Rio Grande City was incorporated and moving his way up to mayor. In that time, Villarreal said the city created a parks and recreation department from scratch as well as implemented animal control and solid waste programs.

Nothing happens by mistake in government, Villarreal said.

“I learned that government is not a magic wand, but it can be a piece of modeling clay, where you can form it,” Villarreal said.

“You can make something valuable out of the community by being involved.”

Villarreal’s wife, Giselle, said he told her he planned

more in-depth understanding to help our teaching strategies and make a real impact on our kids.” to run for Congress when they first started dating in 2008. She bought a house in Edinburg nine months ago, and Villarreal was spending weekends there while he finished up his work in Rio Grande City. He officially moved at the first of April.

The family’s roots are deep in Rio Grande City, but it falls in the 28th Congressional District, which is anchored in Laredo and held by Henry Cuellar. The district stretches north to Laredo and then up to San Antonio.

It doesn’t reflect Villarreal’s roots, he said.

He identifies with the Rio Grande Valley, and he’s always had a connection with cities in Hidalgo County. Villarreal went to the University of Texas-Pan American in Edinburg.

“The thing about the Valley is it seems like it’s a large place, but we’re so interconnected,” Villarreal said.

“When we think regionally, we become strong, and we become a force to be reckoned with.”

Villarreal said he became well versed on issues like border security and water is-

Pictured are pre-K teacher Mayra Molina, and kindergarten teacher Michelle Rodriguez, who will be traveling to Indonesia this summer to immerse themselves in a foreign language through a grant.

sues as mayor of Rio Grande City, but he hasn’t had to deal with concerns like healthcare. That’s why he’s studying up on it now. He’s also looking into Medicaid and Medicare, spending a large part of the day Tuesday meeting with nurses to get a hands-on idea of what healthcare’s about.

For example, Villarreal said he’s found that nurse practitioners can play a huge part in lowering the cost of healthcare, especially because it’s hard to get doctors in rural areas.

Immigration As a republican, Villarreal said he supports the DREAM Act. He added that he’s not planning to rubber-stamp the philosophy of a single party.

Young minds need to be prepared to enter the workforce and all many of them know is life in the United States because they came into the country at a young age.

The DREAMers he knows are hardworking, motivated and educated.

“That investment in education has to continue into the college years, so they can go into the system,” Villarreal said. “You don’t give them a fish, you teach them how to fish. That’s the American way – get a job, provide for families.”

The problem with President Obama’s Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program isn’t the program itself, but that Obama implemented it, Villarreal said. It’s the job of Congress to create the laws, and in this case, it didn’t do its job, he said.

Congress and the executive branch are broken, Villarreal said. There’s a disconnect that needs to be fixed.

Villarreal pointed to Ronald Reagan’s Immigration Reform and Control Act, which was passed by Congress and granted legal status to people in the country illegally, and said Reagan was beyond his years.

“He (Obama) suddenly got his pen and did an executive action. The next person who comes in can reverse the whole thing,” Villarreal said.

“You’re building basically a building with a foundation of sand. Congress builds concrete that you can build

from pg 1

from.”

Villarreal said he supports a path to residency “if you’re productive, if you’ve been here and you’re an established part of the workforce, and you add value to our communities.”

He does not, he emphasized, support entitlements for the immigrants in the country without documentation. Maybe in 10 years, he said, the program could be reevaluated to see if rights, like the ability to vote, should be extended to the affected immigrants.

But, Villarreal said, one of his cornerstone issues is border security, even before immigration. A fence, he said, is not the answer to securing the border. Villarreal supports technology and more boots on the ground.

He described a Friday afternoon when he and his employees were leaving his shop and they suddenly were caught in the middle of a group of immigrants running from authorities.

“That woke me up really fast. Something is not right.

The system is way too broken,” Villarreal said, later adding that Rio Grande City officers once caught a man involved with transnational gangs a block away from Whataburger.

He said the technology used on the border, particularly in Starr County is antiquated. Rio Grande City received an aerostat, a balloon with infrared cameras, last year. That technology, Villarreal said, is 30 years old.

Only six months ago were cameras installed on that part of the border. Weeks ago, Border Patrol opened the first boat ramp in Starr County, and now two boats are able to patrol that part of the Rio Grande, he said.

Villarreal said he’s seen a difference with the introduction of the Department of Public Safety’s Operation Strong Safety, increasing the presence of troopers in the area.

“People respect the most a badge and a person. They don’t much respect objects.

The border fence is just a very expensive object,” Villarreal said.

theclassifieds April 17, 2015

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AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MISSION, TEXAS GRANTING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT RENEWAL FOR A HOME OCCUPATION – REGISTERED HOME DAYCARE AT 3304 SANTA INEZ, LOT 123, LOS NOGALES SUBDIVISION, PH. III READ, CONSIDERED AND PASSED, THIS THE 13TH DAY OF APRIL, 2015.

Norberto Salinas, Mayor ATTEST: Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

NOTICE OF GENERAL ELECTION (AVISO DE ELECCION GENERAL) To the Registered Voters of Alton, Texas: (A los votantes registrados de Alton, Texas:) Notice is hereby given that the polling places listed below will be open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 9, 2015, for voting in a general election to elect a Mayor and Commissioner Place 1.

(Notifiquese, por las presente, que las casillas electorales sitados abajo se abrirán desde las 7:00 a.m. hasta las 7:00 p.m. el Sabado, 9 de Mayo de 2015 para elejir un Alcalde y Comisionado 1r Lugar) On Election Day, voters must vote in their precinct where registered to vote.

(El dia de Eleccion, los votantes deberán votar en su precinto donde están inscritos para votar) Location of Election Day Polling Places (Ubicacion de las castillas electorales el Dia de Eleccion) Alton City Hall, 509 S. Alton Blvd Oficinas de la Cuidad, 509 S. Alton Blvd

Precinct Number(s) Numero de precincto(s)

Pcts. 88, 125, 211, 212 & 217 Pcts. 88, 125, 211, 212 & 217

For Early Voting, a voter may vote at any of the locations listed below: (Para Votacion Adelantada, los votantes podrian votar en cualquiera de las ubicaciones nombradas abajo.)

Location Of Election Day Polling Places (Ubicación de las casillas electorales de votación adelantada)

Days and Hours of Operation Dias y Horas Hábiles

Alton City Hall, 509 S. Alton Blvd Oficinas de la Ciudad, 509 S. Alton Bulevar

Monday, April 27 Lunes, Abril 27 Tuesday, April 28 Martes, Abril 28 Wednesday, April 29 Miercoles, Abril 29 Thursday, April 30 Jueves, Abril 30 Friday, May 1 Viernes, Mayo 1 Saturday, May 2 Sabado, Mayo 2 Monday, May 4 Lunes, Mayo 4 Tuesday, May 5 Martes, Mayo 5

7 am – 7 pm 8 am – 5 pm 8 am – 5 pm 8 am – 5 pm 8 am – 5 pm 8 am – 5 pm 8 am – 5 pm 7 am – 7 pm

Applications for ballots by mail shall be mailed to: (Solicitudes para boletas que se votarán en ausencia por correo deberán enviarse a:) Baudelia Rojas, Early Voting Clerk Baudelia Rojas, Secretaria de Votacion Adelantada 509 S. Alton Blvd.

Mission, TX 78572 Applications for ballots by mail must be received no later than the close of business on Thursday, April 30, 2015.

(Las solicitudes para boletas que se votarán en ausencia por correo deberán recibirse para el fin de las horas de negocio el 30 de Abril de 2015.)

Issued this the 24th day of February, 2015.

Emitida este dia 24 de Febrero de 2015.

ORDINANCE NO. 4208 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MISSION, TEXAS GRANTING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT RENEWAL FOR A PORTABLE BUILDING – SALE OF WATER, 213 E. EXPRESSWAY 83, LOT 3, EL PUEBLO SUBIVISION, PH. I READ, CONSIDERED AND PASSED, THIS THE 13TH DAY OF APRIL, 2015.

Norberto Salinas, Mayor ATTEST: Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

______________________________ Salvador Vela, Mayor City of Alton, Texas Salvador Vela, Alcalde Ciudad de Alton, Texas

ORDINANCE NO. 4204

ORDINANCE NO. 4205

ORDINANCE NO. 4206

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MISSION, TEXAS GRANTING A REZONING LOTS 1 & 2, BLOCK 194, OBLATE ADDITION, 702 E. 12TH STREET, FROM R-1 (SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL) TO C-1 (OFFICE BUILDING) READ, CONSIDERED AND PASSED, THIS THE 13TH DAY OF APRIL, 2015.

Norberto Salinas, Mayor ATTEST: Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MISSION, TEXAS GRANTING A REZONING LOT 7, BLOCK 106, MISSION ORIGINAL TOWNSITE SUBDIVISION, 601 N. DOHERTY AVENUE, FROM R-1 (SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL) TO C-1 (OFFICE BUILDING) READ, CONSIDERED AND PASSED, THIS THE 13TH DAY OF APRIL, 2015.

Norberto Salinas, Mayor ATTEST: Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MISSION, TEXAS GRANTING A REZONING THE NORTH 938.74’ OF LOT A, B.L. MILLERS RESUBDIVISION OF LOTS 16-20, BLOCK 4, MISSION GROVES ESTATES SUBDIVISION, FROM AO-I (AGRICULTURAL OPEN INTERIM) TO C-3 (GENERAL BUSINESS) READ, CONSIDERED AND PASSED, THIS THE 13TH DAY OF APRIL, 2015.

Norberto Salinas, Mayor ATTEST: Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

page 14

MISSION

borhood. Owners of the Villanueva Event Center in Mountain View Subdivision, on Los Ebanos Road and Mile 2 Road, requested a conditional use permit for sale of alcohol at the center.

“I do not believe we should be allowing sale of alcohol in a center where there is a large residential neighborhood,” Salinas said.

“We try to keep alcohol usage and sales in locations away from residential neighborhoods for the protection of the residents.”

Also under zoning matters, the council approved zoning for the north 938.74 feet of Lot A of B. L. Miller’s subdivision from agricultural open AO-I to general business, C-3. The item failed to get approval at the recent Planning and Zoning Commission meeting due to a lack of quorum. Engineer Steve Spoor asked the council to remand the item back to the P&Z when there was a full board for reconsideration.

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from pg 1

However, Councilwoman Norie Garza said she had driven out to look at the site and found commercial zoning adjacent to the site and noticed Hidalgo County offices were in the same block on La Homa, one major street over. There also is a church nearby, so she did not see any problem with the requested zoning.

Councilman Armando O’Cana asked what the Future Land Use Map showed for the site. City Planner Daniel Tijerina said the map showed residential at this time but the map could be revised to reflect what was actually in the area and there was a bit of commercial in the area.

After hearing what Garza had to say, the council voted to approve the request instead of remanding the item back to P&Z. Also Monday, Mission Police Chief Robert Dominquez recommended acceptance of masonry repairs of the Mission Public Safety

Jail following repairs by Joe Williamson Construction. Salinas refused to approve the request, saying he wanted Williamson to come and face the council and tell them himself that the repairs were completed.

“We have had problems getting this work done,” Salinas said. “When he comes and tells us himself the repairs are completed, then we will hold him to it if there are any more problems.”

Judge Jonathan Wehrmeister announced the Mission Municipal Court would start opening on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. be-

CONTRACTS

going to cost additional money. Another thing affecting the bottom line is the ground in Peñitas. Assuming it was normal dirt, the original contractor underestimated the amount of work it would take to do six bores. Under the original contract, the city could hold them to that price even if it cost more to complete, but when the contractor

ginning May 2 so residents who are working during the week can come in and pay fines or take care of other pending business they might have with the court.

The council gave permission for six Mission Police officers to become Hidalgo County reserve deputies in order to provide services to Sharyland Pioneer High School and Sharyland North Junior High, which are both located outside the city.

The program is designed to reduce school violence at all Sharyland Independent School District campuses within the city limits, and went bankrupt, a new contractor charged more to do the work.

Now there’s a debate with USDA to increase funding to finish the project or close it out as is and add a fifth phase that would include the houses skipped as well as newly annexed properties.

“I’m trying to get this out of the way, so we can go to the next page,” Cuellar said.

The project also is compounded by a lawsuit filed by a subcontractor. Because it has not received the city’s payment, L&G Concrete Construction owes $87,000 to ACT Pipe and Supply, a subcontractor that filed a lawsuit against L&G in August. L&G turned around and pulled the city of Peñitas in as a third-party defendant, claiming L&G was owed more than $1 million for its work.

Through it all, Cuellar said USDA has questioned the action of its previous personnel, like the fact that they authorized a $421,000 reimbursement halfway through the project.

Cuellar said current employees at the USDA have said they won’t issue a final payment until the city pays back $421,000 that was reimbursed in 2012.

According to Cuellar, when the project started, there wasn’t enough funding to cover all of the streets. Instead of cutting the project, Juan Ortiz, the city manager at the time, told USDA the city would make up the difference in expense. Then,

SISD administrators want the program expanded to those campuses as well.

By naming the officers in the schools as reserve deputies, they will be able to submit criminal cases to the local justices of the peace, work with juvenile probation and send cases to the Hidalgo County District Attorney’s office for prosecution if needed.

Personnel from the Hidalgo County Tax Office will host a meeting April 23 at 5:30 p.m. at the Mission Economic Development Corporation offices, 901 Business Park Drive, for the next city manager, Noe Cavazos asked for reimbursement on the city’s expenses, according to Cuellar. USDA employees at the time told Cavazos the project was ahead of schedule and behind on budget, so they issued the $421,000 reimbursement.

That money, Cuellar said, later was used to begin repaying the debt to USDA before the city had revenue coming in from residents’ sewer payments.

But the city has documentation to prove everything was above board, he said.

“There’s no indication of impropriety. There’s no suspicion of impropriety,” Cuellar said.

The city requested a loan from a bank to repay the $421,000, but the bank requested a copy of the city’s 2013-2014 audit, which is late and won’t be ready for two weeks, Cuellar said.

When Cuellar told a supervisor at the USDA what was going on, he asked why the city didn’t ask USDA for the loan. There is a USDA task force formed to find projects to fund because the federal agency isn’t spending its money fast enough.

Cuellar said he did ask if USDA could add the $421 to the loan, but he was told no.

Now, he’s been told to put together some numbers to repay the additional debt to USDA. Also at its Tuesday meeting, the council terminated the city’s contract with Castle Enterprises, which was working on a drainage project on

April 17, 2015

any resident of Mission who has questions about property taxes to come and ask questions.

In other action, authorization was given for the city to go out for bids for restroom facilities for the Mission Hike & Bike Trail Park.

The council approved a resolution requesting Gov. Greg Abbott officially rename the Metropolitan Planning Organization as the Transportation Policy Committee of the Metropolitan Planning Organization. This will bring the organization in compliance with state standards. from pg 1

Tom Gill Road. In that project, the contractor couldn’t do a bore, and had to do an open cut on the street to install drainage pipes. It cost more than was budgeted, so the city had to go back to the General Land Office, which was funding the project, and request more money.

It took so long, Castle moved its construction crew to another project, so when the city got the approval for additional funds, Castle requested even more to remobilize.

“I said if we submit another application for more money, it could take another six months and by then you’re going to say it’s going to be even more money and we’re never going to see the end of this,” Cuellar said.

The contract already had expired, and it was 90 percent done. Castle declined to finish, so the city hired Salazar Construction, which will finish the project with the $17,000 left in the budget.

The city will cover another $5,000 expense to move a water line.

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