May 29, 2015 - Progress Times Issue by Progress Times

Friday, May 29, 2015

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MCISD board president earns statewide recognition M

By Lea Victoria Juarez

ore than a month ago, Patricia O’Caña-Olivarez found out that she would be receiving a Texas School Board Trustee of the Year award, but she is still in disbelief, she said. The Mission CISD president has served on the school board since 2008 and was nominated by the Mission Texas Classroom Teachers Association to receive the honor. Her name was put forward because she goes above and beyond the call of duty, said Nydia Alvarez-Alonzo, Mission TCTA president. O’Caña-Olivarez

participated in Principal for a Day, shadowing one of the MCISD principals; she volunteers to be a UIL judge and participates in career days at various campuses. “These are quality interactions with the students, not just someone who is there because they were elected,” Alvarez-Alonzo said. “It takes a lot of time, and she is a very busy person, but we see what she’s given to the students and how they’ve benefited from the leadership.” When O’Caña-Olivarez received the phone call and heard she was chosen, she immediately thought of her family. “I was a hot mess, like

they say. A flood of memories came from my background and the hard work ethic that my parents have,” she said. The 41-year-old comes from a migrant family. She was born in California, where her parents worked in the fields. It wasn’t until she was in law school at St. Mary’s University that she discovered her first home was a hotel. “My mom said that they would go work in the fields with everybody side by side, but what kept them going was knowing that that was not my future,” O’Caña-Olivarez said between tears. “When I realized those were the roots that I came from, it

just really bore down on me because I took it like I had to really stay and finish law school.” While in law school, she managed a long-distance relationship with her husband Hector, who remained in Mission to run a business. They saw each other on weekends, except for when she was studying for her bar exam. She was licensed in 2002 and opened her own practice in 2005. Her parents taught the value of volunteer work and the importance of education, she said and that’s why she decided to give back to the community by joining the

See MCISD 10A

AMERICAN HEROES Council considers

food truck concerns A By Kathy Olivarez

‘With broken hearts,’ community honors fallen soldiers

By Julie Silva rmy Staff Sgt. Bradley Espinoza died Oct. 19, 2009, from wounds sustained when enemy forces attacked his vehicle with an improvised explosive device in Quest, Iraq. Espinoza, 26, was from Alton. Army Spc. Alex D. Gonzalez died May 6, 2008, by small-arms fire and an explosive in Mosul, Iraq. He was 21 and from Mission. Army Cpl. Jose Rubio Hernandez died March 24, 2008, from wounds sustained when his vehicle encountered an improvised explosive device in Baghdad, Iraq. Hernandez, 24, was from Mission. Army Staff Sgt. Omar D. Flores was killed July 8, 2006, when an improvised

deadly device detonated near his mine-protected vehicle during combat in Ramadi, Iraq. He was 27 and from Mission. Army Sgt. Javier Marin Jr. died Jan. 24, 2005, along with four other soldiers when their vehicle overturned in Mohammed Scran, Iraq. Marin, 29, was from Mission. “Even in the last decade, our hearts have been broken by the deaths of our sons in Iraq,” Father Roy Snipes, of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church prayed Monday during the annual Memorial Day Ceremony hosted by the ACE Club. “Some of our finest, our best and brightest, are with you now.” Between patriotic songs

See HEROES 10A

TOP: Veterans offer a 21-gun salute during the ACE Club of Mission’s Memorial Day ceremony at Leo Peña Placita Park on Monday. ABOVE: Rose Guerra, whose son was killed in 2010 in Afghanistan, speaks to the crowd as picture of Pfc. Diego Montoya’s dignified transfer is displayed.

“We honor those who have given their lives for this country.” --Lupe A. Gonzalez

s mobile food trucks sweep the Valley in a growing trend, Mission city leaders are still split on regulation. Mayor Beto Salinas has made it clear he is adamantly opposed to use of mobile food units in the city, but he wasn’t present at Mission City Council’s Tuesday meeting. The mayor feels mobile food unit operators do not pay the same amount of taxes to the city as a restaurant owner who rents or owns a site and provides seating space for customers. Those who operate restaurants cannot sell their food at the same low prices that mobile food unit operators can because of their overhead costs, Salinas has said. Tuesday, the council debated a request for a continued conditional use permit for Zarah’s Tacos Mobile Food Unit, which is at 808 S. Shary Road. The owner of the business asked for permission to add two to four tables for patrons to eat their food in the parking lot in front of the mobile unit. The unit serves tacos, tortas, hamburgers, hot dogs and other fast foods. According to representatives for Zarah’s, the mobile food unit is only operated from 5 p.m. to midnight, after the meat market on that location is closed. Most other businesses in the area also close early so having the tables available where customers could eat would not be a safety hazard, he said, adding that customers have asked for a place to eat their meals on site. Zarah’s had rented a nearby room so that customers could eat but the representative said customers wanted to eat outside.

City Councilwoman Jessica Ortega-Ochoa said her major concern was for the safety of the shopping center’s customers because at times the parking lot is congested. City Manager Martin Garza reminded the council that mobile food units are competing with restaurants, and he said the requested tables would provide more competition. He added the location was very close to a high traffic five-lane road. After discussion, the council approved the permit for the mobile food unit, allowing two tables for customers that would be placed on the sidewalk in front of Zarah’s Meat Market. A second conditional permit request was for renewal of a permit for Tacos El Primo, also a mobile unit, at 801 N. Inspiration Road. City staff and the Planning and Development Commission had recommended denial of the permit renewal. City Planner Danny Tijerina said the lot for the unit is narrow. There is no place for parking, except for the 35foot railroad right-of-way. The unit, which is located on the southwest corner of Inspiration Road and Business 83, is close to the lot line and Inspiration Road is being widened in that location. Inspiration Road already has heavy traffic and is expected to increase with the widening, he said. Tijerina said the site had no parking and there were complaints to the city about the lack of landscaping and lighting. Oscar Treviño, owner, countered that he could not landscape railroad right-ofway without the railroad’s permission.

See FOOD TRUCK 10A

INSIDE

Officials ready for summer

After seeing an influx of immigrants from Central America last year, local authorities are preparing for a possible repeat. See story page 3A

INDEX

Entertainment | pg. 2A

Lifestyle | pg. 6A

Mission man wins H-E-B competition

Jose “Fred” Treviño lost 53 pounds and cut his visceral body fat by 40 percent to claim a $10,000 prize in the H-E-B Slim Down Showdown. See story page 5A

Opinion | pg. 4A

Sports | pg. 8A

Recognizing excellence in education

PROGRESS TIMES

Section B

Sharyland High School graduates to receive diplomas June 4

haryland High School is proud to announce that the 2015 graduation ceremony will be held June 4 at 10 a.m. at the State Farm Arena in Hidalgo. The Rattler Band will perform “Pomp and Circumstance” as the graduates enter the arena. After the procession, third-ranking student Samantha Young will give the invocation. Honor graduates Adolfo Lopez and Yugyeong Lee will invite the audience to stand for the “The National Anthem.” They will also lead the attendees in the Pledge of Allegiance and the Pledge to the Texas Flag. Carolyn Mendiola, SHS principal and mistress of ceremony, will welcome the

See SHS CEREMONY 3B

James D. Heath PHS Principal

emony, will welcome the graduates, their friends and family, honored guests, faculty and staff. Aimee Marie Rara will

See PHS CEREMONY 11B

Mission HS graduation set for McAllen Convention Center

he Mission High School graduating Class of 2015 will get their diplomas on June 6, at the McAllen Convention Center. The commencement ceremony will officially begin at 3 p.m. The seniors will enter with the traditional “Pomp and Circumstance.” The presentation of colors will be led by Aminta Michelle Flores. Dan Ying Huang will lead everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance. The National Anthem will be sung by Carolina Gonzalez. Violeta Lizette Rivera will provide an invocation, followed by the official welcome by Jesus Rene Cuellar Jr. Carolina Briones will introducespecial guests in attendance. The salutatory address

ission CISD Graduates: I could not be more proud of the 2015 Mission CISD graduating class. You exemplify the positive core traits that are the foundation of our great community. These character traits, along with the world class K-12 schooling experience you received in Mission CISD, will definitely carry you to great heights in your next chapter of your academ-

or almost twelve years, others have been guiding you as you made choices. We salute you because you chose to stay in school to insure that you would be ready for this next step in life. Now, the time has come for you to make the choices, on your own, that are the wisest for you. This will happen as you move forward Dr. Filomena Leo SISD Interim Superintendent

Dr. Ricardo Lopez MCISD Superintendent

See LOPEZ 17B

Sharyland top three examples of well rounded students

ducation is more than reading, writing, math or standardized scores. Although high school students today are faced with ample challenges within their classroom walls, the education they get outside is just as beneficial. For Sharyland High School’s top three students, their education involved volunteerism and extra-curricular involvement which helped set them on the path they plan to pursue while making high school an enjoyable and positive experience. Valedictorian Christopher Koenig will be attending

Stanford University to study mechanical engineering – a field he believes offers the greatest potential to change

Valedictorian Christopher Koenig

the world and help people across the globe. “Participating in volunteer clubs such as Leo Club

Salutatorian Gabriel Gomide

and National Honor Society has taught me essential les-

See SHS TOP 3 3B

Third Ranking Samantha Young

Pioneer’s top students ready for next step in education

ioneer High School’s first crop of seniors will receive their diplomas soon, and the top three students are already planning for life after graduation. Valedictorian Michael Adam Ramirez Jr., son of Michael and Clarissa Ramirez, plans to major in music at the University of North Texas at Denton. He hopes to work as a composer for either musical theater productions or concert band. Ramirez participated in One Act Play, Masterminds, show choir, band and was a member of the National Honor Society and student council. He is a National

Hispanic Scholar, Advanced Placement Scholar and is an “A” honor roll student. Salutatorian Aimee Marie

Valedictorian Michael Ramirez

Rara plans to attend the University of Texas at Austin and major in biology. She hopes to enter medical school and

Salutatorian Aimee Rara

become a physician in pediatrics. The daughter of Fidel

See PHS TOP 3 11B

Third Ranking Benjamin Ho-Shing

Obituaries | pg. 9A Veterans Memorial’s top three have big dreams for future

Edilberto Flores MHS Principal

will be given by Jasmin Vega, followed by the valedictory address by Luis Angel Gonzalez. Ricardo López, superin-

See MHS CEREMONY 17B

Veterans Memorial HS ceremony to be held on June 6

he Veterans Memorial High School graduating Class of 2015 will get their diplomas on June 6, at the McAllen Convention Center. The commencement ceremony will officially begin at 9 a.m. The seniors will enter with the traditional “Pomp and Circumstance.” The presentation of colors will be done by the VMHS JROTC. Michelle Savannah Salinas will lead everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance. The National Anthem will be sung by Darius Vicente Rothelridge Davis. Micaela Corina Cantu will provide an invocation, followed by the official welcome by Judith Maria Haro. VMHS Principal Angelina V. Garcia will introduce special guests in attendance.

By Dr. Filomena Leo

See LEO 3B Carolyn Mendiola SHS Principal

graduates, their friends and family, honored guests, faculty and staff. Salutatorian Gabriel Arantes Gomide will give the

Pioneer’s first graduates to walk the stage

ioneer High School is proud to announce that the 2015 graduation ceremony will be held Friday, June 5 at 2 p.m. at the State Farm Arena. The Pioneer Diamondback band will perform “Pomp and Circumstance” as the graduates enter the arena. After the procession, third-ranking student Benjamin Ho-Shing will give the invocation. Honor graduate Brianna Gonzalez will invite the audience to stand for the “The National Anthem.” Honor student Angelica Silva will also lead the attendees in the Pledge of Allegiance and Brianna Landovazo will lead the Pledge to the Texas Flag. James Heath, Pioneer principal and Master of Cer-

May 29, 2015

Leo: Take charge of your life MCISD setting new records

ee Jacob Sanchez is the 2015 Veterans Memorial High School valedictorian. He is the son of Jose and Leticia Sanchez. Sanchez plans on attending Texas A&M in College Station where he plans to study biochemistry. He would ultimately like to pursue studies to become a pediatrician. Senior year activities for Sanchez have included UIL, robotics, National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta and swimming. Sanchez said he will miss friends and family, as well as an easier schedule when he starts college this fall. How-

ever, he said he is looking forward to starting something new. His advice for next year’s seniors is to not

Valedictorian Lee Sanchez

take things too seriously. Henry Davis III is this year’s salutatorian at Veterans Memorial High School.

Salutatorian Henry Davis III

He plans to attend Notre Dame University this fall

See VMHS TOP 3 24B

Third Ranking Judith Haro

MHS graduates ready for University of Texas, Texas A&M

op students at Mission High School all agree the key to staying ahead is working hard

and staying focused, even through the summer months. Luis Angel Gonzalez is the Mission High School

Class of 2015 valedictorian. He is the son of Cesar and Hilda Gonzalez. Gonzalez plans to attend

Texas A&M-College Station this fall. He plans on major-

Valedictorian Luis Gonzalez

Salutatorian Jasmin Vega

Third Ranking Violeta Rivera

Third Ranking Natalie Stubbs

See MHS TOP 3 17B

Angelina V. Garcia VMHS Principal

There will be three addresses during the program. The first will be by Ricardo López, superintendent of schools. The salutatory ad-

See VMHS CEREMONY 24B

In today’s edition

Inside today’s Progress Times is the 20142015 Campus Chronicle, featuring graduates from Mission Consolidated and Sharyland ISDs.

Classifieds | pg. 11A

entertainment

‘Art in the Park’ starts June 6 at the National Butterfly Center

he National Butterfly Center and the Upper Valley Art League announce Art in the Park, a summer program for artists of all ages in the Rio Grande Valley. An opening reception for the exhibited is already scheduled for September 19, from 6 to 8 p.m. and will be free and open to the public. From June 6 through August 21, 2015, the gardens and grounds at the National Butterfly Center in Mission will be open at no charge to members of the Upper Valley Art League for plein aire painting, sketching and photography. Works produced on site or in the studio from field studies and observations in the outdoors may be entered into the juried competition and show for the chance to win scholarships and prizes. All who are interested are encouraged to attend the kick-off event at the Nation-

al Butterfly Center at 9 a.m., Saturday, June 6. A guided tour of the property will be provided at this time, along with instructions for partic-

ipants and deadlines for the contest. “Since the mid-1800’s artists have used scenes from the outdoors to cre-

ate wonderful works that use natural light, color and movement to illustrate their subject,” states Marianna

See ART IN THE PARK 7A

Richard Slechta Exhibit at IMAS

he International Museum of Art and Science’s latest art exhibit features contemporary art photographer Richard Slechta. Once one of Hollywood’s most accomplished Lighting Technical Directors, Slechta is recognized as one of the biggest names in photo-realistic, computer-generated imagery. Since 1992, his work has been driven by a single and simple urge - to be imaginative. His one-of-a-kind photograms fall between the artistic realms of painting and photography while showcasing abstract concepts and tying in the various sounds and otherworldly views in the world around us. He left Hollywood to realize his real dream as a fine artist and is now headed to the Rio Grande Valley. You can view his work on display at IMAS from May to September.

May 29, 2015

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NEWS | SPORTS | ENTERTAINMENT | PHOTOS

Coming Attractions

May 29 Graceland Ninjaz will be live at Louie’s Backyard on South Padre Island at 11 p.m. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.rgvevents.com. June 3 Live Nationa’s “The Noise” Present In This Moment at the Boggus Ford Events Center in Pharr. General admission is $24. For more information or tickets, visit www.pharrevents.com/events/. June 5 Ministry with My Life with Thrill Kill Kult and The Hunger will perform at the Boggus Ford Events Center in Pharr. Tickets are $39.50. For more information or tickets, visit www.pharrevents.com/ events/. Comedian Adrian Uribe with all of his characters will be performing at the McAllen Civic Center (1300 S. 10th St.) at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. For more information, visit http://www.mcallenconventioncenter.net/event/adrian-uribe/. June 6 Romeo Santos will perform at the State Farm Arena at 9 p.m., doors open at 8 p.m. For more information and to buy tickets, visit www.statefarmarena. com. June 10 Upper Valley Art League is having Portrait Drawing Lessons for adults with Lourdes Ballard. The classes will be held every Saturday from 1 to 11:30 a.m. Starting June 6. Costs for the class is $85 plus one-year membership fee of $30. The lessons last four weeks. Materials to bring include 4B and optional 6B drawing pencil, a 14”x11” sketchpad and a Deisng Kneaded rubber eraser. For more information or to sign up, call 292-3751 or 583-2787. Chris Brown will perform at the State Farm Arena at 7 p.m., doors will open at 6 p.m. For more information and to buy tickets, visit www.statefarmarena.com. June 11-13 Niko El Hipnotista de las Estrellas will perform at 8 p.m. each night at the McAllen Civic Center. For more information, visit http://www.mcallenconventioncenter.net. June 12 McAllen Convention Center will present the South Texas Fighting Championships MMA Cage Fights. Fighters include Fabian Saldivar versus Josh Montalvo, Andoni Sorando versus Sam Guardiola, Saul Elizondo verus Ricardo Palacios and Guilherme Farias de Costa. Tickets start

at $25 and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com or call 292-5669 or 414-8698. June 14 The Real Deal Tour with Mike Epps and Friends will be performing live at the McAllen Convention Center at 7:30 p.m. Doors will open at 6 p.m.. For more information, visit http://www.mcallenconventioncenter.net. Tickets are available at www.ticketmaster.com or by calling 956-648-2333. June 19 Yuri will perform at the State Farm Arena at 8 p.m., doors will open at 7 p.m. For more information and to buy tickets, visit www.statefarmarena.com. June 20 17th Annual Home Buyer’s Fair will take place at the McAllen Convention Center from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event connects potential homebuyers with the resources they need to achieve their dream of becoming a homeowner. There will be 18 free seminars and more such as exhibitors, furniture and appliance giveaways, and door prizes. For more information, call 681-3800. June 26 Metro PCS Friday Night Knockout will be at the State Farm Arena at 7 p.m., doors will open at 6 p.m. The event will feature No. 2 World Ranked Middleweight Gilberto Ramirez and two-time Mexican Olympian Oscar Valdez. For more information and to buy tickets, visit www.statefarmarena.com. June 27 Tracy Lawrence will be performing at the Las Palmas Race Park. Gates open at 7 p.m. For more information visit www.laspalmasracepark.com/events. Latin Grammy winner for Best Contemporary Pop Vocal Album in 2014, Camila – Elypse World Tour will perform at the State Farm Arena at 8:30 p.m., doors will open at 7:30 p.m. For more information and to buy tickets, visit www. statefarmarena.com. Weekly Catholic War Veterans Post #1065 in Mission invites the public to their “Get Away Thursday Dance” held every Thursday evening, from 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. It is located at 500 W. Business 83. Music by the Electro Band provides country western, Tejano, the Oldies, cumbias and more. No cover charge. Call 583-5961 or email Doodrey@netzero.com for more information. To see the complete Coming Attractions calendar, go to www.ptrgv.com.

May 29, 2015

UTPA ranks among best for Hispanics

he University of Texas-Pan American ranks No. 3 in the nation in the number of undergraduate degrees awarded to Hispanic students, according to the May 2015 edition of the “Hispanic Outlook in Higher Education” magazine. The university also ranked No. 4 in the number of Hispanic students enrolled in graduate school, topping all other Texas institutions of higher education. In the lists of degrees awarded to Hispanics in 12 special academic programs, UTPA ranked in the top 10 in six programs: • No. 3 in Homeland Security, Law Enforcement • No. 4 in Mathematics and Statistics • No. 5 in Psychology • No. 7 in Visual and Performing Arts • No. 8 in Engineering • No. 10 in Communication Journalism This is the 14th year UTPA has been highlighted in Hispanic Outlook’s annual Top 100 Colleges for Hispanics. The rankings are based on surveys of 100 predominantly Hispanic-serving institutions

in the United States and Puerto Rico and use 2013 data from the U.S. Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics. “UT Pan American is excited to once again be among the leaders in the number of undergraduate and graduate degrees awarded to Hispanic students across the country,” said Cynthia Brown, UTPA provost and vice president for Academic Affairs and deputy provost for The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, which will open in fall 2015. “We are pleased to play an important role in educating the fastest growing segment of the U.S. population. The contributions of our graduates will be important to the local, regional and national economies.” Brown said this is a transformational time for the Rio Grande Valley community, as UTPA joins The University of Texas at Brownsville to become UTRGV. With the addition of the UTRGV School of Medicine, which is pending accreditation, the institution soon will be one of the largest Hispanic-serving institutions in the country, she said.

fficials from Hidalgo County said they’re ready for any influx of immigrants this summer, even though they don’t anticipate numbers as large as last year. Thousands of undocumented immigrants from primarily Central America fled to the McAllen area in 2014. As of May 17, 2015, there were 17,716 total guests at McAllen Sacred Heart for immigration relief. Hidalgo County Judge Ramon Garcia, McAllen Mayor Jim Darling, McAllen U.S. Border Patrol Sector Chief Kevin Oaks and leaders from Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley spoke to the public in a news conference May 21 to inform

the public of their humanitarian efforts. “We weren’t prepared last year, but part of the breakdown is our inability to deal with so many families and unaccompanied juveniles,” Oaks said. “We learned many lessons.” Oaks said the plan of action is still essentially the same, but this time each entity knows what to expect. Apprehensions are 42 percent lower than last year at this time. Oaks said agents detained between 1,200 and 1,500 immigrants a day, but now that number is anywhere from 400 to 500 people per day. Juvenile apprehensions dropped by 60 percent, and whole family apprehensions dropped by 58 percent. The border patrol chief said the reason they don’t ex-

Last day of school to be an early release day for students

he last day of classes for Mission Consolidated Independent School District students is Wednesday, June 3. This will also be an early release day for students, using the following schedule. Pre-K students will be released at 10:30 a.m. There will not be school for the afternoon

Pre-K students on this day. All other elementary school grades will be released at noon. Junior high schools and high schools will release students at 1 p.m. While June 3 will be an early release day for students, it will be a regular work day for district employees.

H-E-B to donate $100,000 to the American Red Cross, launch in-store campaign

-E-B will donate $100,000 to the American Red Cross and will begin accepting customer donations for the families and communities devastated by the recent Texas floods and tornadoes. All H-E-B and H-E-B plus! stores across Texas launched a statewide tear pad campaign offering customers an opportunity to support victims by donating in increments of $1, $3, or $5 to their

UTPA awarded more than 1,800 students bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees at its most recent commencement ceremonies May 16.

Hidalgo County preps for immigrant surge By Lea Victoria Juarez

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pect a surge as great as last year is because the holding centers have improved. “Detentions are one of the reasons people don’t come back to the country if they’re going to be detained,” Oaks said. “Another reason is because many of the governments in Central America have stepped up to assess their own situations and reasons why migrants are coming to the United States.” Representatives from the El Salvadoran, Guatemalan, Honduran and the Mexican consulate were also at the news conference. As of April 7, McAllen could apply to be reimbursed for the money it spent aiding Catholic Charities in relief efforts; however, Darling said the city has not yet made the request. The reimburse-

ment funds would come from the Department of Homeland Security’s budget. Hidalgo County as a whole incurred a cost of $108,769 in humanitarian relief efforts from June 14, 2014 to May 20, 2015. The City of Mission incurred $2,205 in that same time frame. Each of the representatives continued to thank the community for their support and anyone that assisted or continues to assist in the relief efforts. “We’re all humans and we all share this planet,” Oaks said. “It’s incumbent upon law enforcement and first responders and anybody else that serves in our community to do what we can for people no matter where they’re from.”

total grocery bill. All monies accepted will benefit the American Red Cross for Texas Flood and Tornado Relief, and will assist the organization to quickly respond to the needs of individuals and families impacted. One hundred percent of all funds received will go towards disaster assessments, clean drinking water, food and temporary housing.

See H-E-B DONATES 10A

opinion By Ed Sterling Texas Press Association

STATE CAPITAL HIGHLIGHTS

USTIN — Gov. Greg Abbott, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and House Speaker Joe Straus on May 21 jointly announced a $3.8 billion tax relief package for Texas businesses and homeowners. According to the announcement, the agreement reached by Patrick and Straus on a tax proposal, along with additional legislation, includes: 1. A 25 percent permanent reduction in the business margins tax; 2. A $10,000 increase in the homestead exemption, beginning in 2015, subject to passage of a constitutional amendment adopted in the November election; and 3. SB 1760, legislation requiring a 60 percent vote of the governing body of any taxing unit wishing to adopt an increase in property taxes that exceeds the effective tax rate. “Texas leaders have come together to advance conservative principles that will improve the lives of Texans and continue to make Texas the model for doing business,” Abbott said. “Every dollar businesses and homeowners pay in taxes is a dollar that could be invested in new jobs, higher wages and stimulating the Texas economy.” Meanwhile, the passage of a state budget for fiscal years 2016 and 2017, the Legislature’s primary task, is in its final stages. The buzz around the Capitol before Memorial Day weekend was that with tax relief resolved, an agreement on the budget that will satisfy the governor’s expectations will soon follow. Unemployment numbers reported Texas Workforce Com-

mission on May 22 reported Texas has added an estimated 287,000 seasonally adjusted jobs over the past year including a modest gain in April with the addition of 1,200 positions during the month. The state unemployment rate remained steady at 4.2 percent in April, down a full percentage point from 5.2 percent a year ago. Texas continues to trend well below the national unemployment rate of 5.4 percent. Job gains for April were led by the Leisure and Hospitality industry, which added 6,900 positions. The Information industry enjoyed its largest monthly gain for the industry since June 2000 with the addition of 3,400 jobs in April. Other Services gained 2,800 jobs during the month followed by Trade, Transportation and Utilities, which expanded by 2,100 positions. “We know that there are still folks who are looking for good-paying jobs in our state and we encourage them to take advantage of the many resources made available through Texas Workforce Solutions,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Ronny Congleton. “Through our Workforce Solutions offices around the state, staff that can help steer job seekers to employment and training opportunities. With more than 260,000 available jobs currently posted on WorkInTexas.com, job seekers have good options here in Texas.” Legislators agree on e-cig bill SB 97 by Sen. Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa, D-McAllen, would ban the sale of e-cigarettes to minors. The Senate concurred with House amendments on May 18, al-

lowing the legislation to proceed to the governor’s office for a final signature. According to the Senate news service, House provisions added to the bill would strengthen on-line sales restrictions and the penalty for selling e-cigarettes to minors would be a fine of up to $500, the same as selling tobacco products to a minor. If Gov. Abbott signs the bill into law, it will take effect on Oct. 1. E-cigarettes vaporize a liquid containing nicotine that is inhaled by the user. Hinojosa expressed concern that use of “vaping” products is growing among younger Texans, saying, “We now have many minors using e-cigs in school because they think that it is a way to avoid smoking tobacco cigarettes.” A 2014 survey by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Federal Drug Administration shows e-cigarette use increasing from 4.5 percent to 13.4 percent of high school students and 1.1 percent to 3.9 percent of middle school students in a single year. Weekend patrols to increase Texas Department of Public Safety on May 20 announced a plan to increase trooper patrols this Memorial Day weekend on Texas roadways. Troopers will be looking for drunken drivers, speeding, and seat belt and other traffic violators statewide. Last year during the Memorial Day weekend, DPS troopers arrested 413 drunk drivers and issued 5,439 speeding citations, 1,053 seat belt and child safety restraint tickets, and cited 684 drivers for driving without insurance. Additionally, troopers made 182 fugitive arrests and 168 felony arrests.

May 29, 2015

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NEWS | SPORTS | ENTERTAINMENT | PHOTOS

U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit denies Obama administration’s request to implement illegal amnesty

USTIN – The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit Tuesday denied the Obama Administration’s request to begin implementing the president’s illegal amnesty plan after a federal judge halted the program in a Feb. 16 ruling. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton released the following statement: “The separation of powers and checks and balances remain the law of the land, and this decision is a victory for those committed to preserving the rule of law in America,” said Attorney General Ken Paxton. “Telling illegal aliens that they are now lawfully present in this country, and awarding

them valuable government benefits, is a drastic change in immigration policy. The president’s attempt to do this by himself, without a law passed by Congress and without any input from the states, is a remarkable violation of the U.S Constitution and laws. We will continue to fight the brazen lawlessness that has become a trademark of the Obama Administration.” The president’s amnesty plan would allow more than 4 million illegal immigrants to be deemed lawfully present and to take advantage of the following government benefits: work permits, tax credits, Social Security, Medicare, driver’s licenses,

unemployment insurance, and the right to international travel. The states would also be compelled to fund additional education, health care and law enforcement costs. Texas leads a 26-state bipartisan coalition fighting the president’s attempt to unilaterally grant amnesty to millions of illegal immigrants. Joining Texas in the lawsuit are: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Maine, Michigan, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, West Virginia and Wisconsin.

Cuellar honors family of veteran brothers

his Memorial Day, Congressman Henry Cuellar honored six heroes from Zapata who served honorably in the United States Armed Forces during World War II. In March, Congressman Cuellar recognized brothers Teodoro, Leopoldo, Antonio, Anselmo, Filiberto, Jr. and Jose Manuel Treviño with a speech on floor the U.S. House of Representatives in Washington, D.C. Congressman Cuellar also presented six American flags that were flown over the U.S. Capitol to the families of the Treviño brothers during today’s ceremony in Zapata. Combined, the six brothers served a total of fifteen and a half years. All were honorably discharged towards the end of the war and returned to Zapata to start their own families. The Treviño brothers were born to Filiberto and Luisa Cuellar Treviño. During World War II, Teodoro, the

eldest, served in the Medical Corps in Bombay, India, as a trained surgical technician and treated wounded American soldiers. Leopoldo served in the Field Artillery and was stationed in Okinawa while preparing for the invasion of Japan. Antonio served in the Coastal Artillery and took part in the invasion of Normandy and the invasion of France, Belgium, the Rhineland and into Germany. Anselmo served in the Engineer Corps for five and a half months before being honorably discharged due to a leg injury. Filiberto Jr., served in the U.S. Army Air Corps. While at sea, his ship was harassed by German submarines. He was also stationed in England where he unloaded bombs and ammunition from trucks preparing for the invasion of Normandy and was part of the liberation of Berlin.

And Jose Manuel, the youngest of the brothers, served in the Infantry and was part of the occupation forces in Berlin that oversaw the liberation of the concentration camps and the release of the American prisoners of war. “The Treviño brothers faced tremendous obstacles while at war and it’s amazing that all were able to honorably serve and return home to Zapata,” said Congressman Cuellar. “These brothers had an immense sense of family and are an inspiration to us all. Their courage and dedication to country are timeless examples of what it really means to be an American. We honor the Treviño brothers today and always for their many sacrifices.” Family members, including children and grandchildren, shared stories of the Treviño brothers, true American heroes, while county officials honored their service to our country.

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

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May 29, 2015

Mission man winner in H-E-B Slim Down Showdown

he H-E-B Slim Down Showdown awarded $32,500 Saturday to two community and three H-E-B Partner (employee) contestants who made the greatest gains in health improvement and fan engagement over a 16-week period. Prior to the announcement, the 34 contestants strutted down the runway in a dramatic makeover reveal to show off their hard work.   The finale event was held in conjunction with the annual H-E-B Health & Wellness Family Expo, which featured free health screenings, free product samples, fitness ideas and cooking demonstrations. During the event more than $20,000 worth of prizes and giveaways were offered to attendees. Families were treated to a Youth Zone that helped emphasize the importance of daily activity and exercise, and throughout the day enjoyed special appearances by former Spur Bruce Bowen, the Spurs Silver Dancers, Spurs Coyote and H-E-Buddy.

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The 2015 H-E-B Slim Down Showdown winners are as follows: • David Nungaray (San Antonio) - Community Slim Down Showdown Winner ($10,000 prize) • Jose “Fred” Trevino (Mission) - Partner Slim Down Showdown Winner ($10,000 prize) • Nathan Dennis (College Station) - Community Healthy Hero Winner ($5,000 prize) • James Griffith (San Antonio) - Partner Healthy Hero Winner ($5,000 prize) • Albert Moreno (Weslaco) – Partner Second Chance Winner ($2,500 prize) Hailing from all over Texas, the 34 contestants in this year’s showdown lost more than 1,123 pounds, improved their cholesterol by an average 37 percent and their visceral body fat by 25 percent, and strutted down the runway to deafening cheers from supporters at Saturday’s makeover reveal ceremony at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center.

H-E-B, in partnership with Methodist Healthcare, determined the two $10,000 grand prize winners using three metrics – overall health improvement, participation and fan engagement. In addition, H-E-B awarded a $5,000 healthy hero prize to one H-E-B Partner and one community member who demonstrated the most progress on health markers such as body mass index and cholesterol levels. Treviño, an H-E-B entertainment department manager from Mission, lost 53 pounds and improved his visceral body fat by 40 percent. A few years ago, Treviño went through the loss of a child and a divorce, but he has emerged from the competition feeling good and supported by his family and friends.     “When they called my name, I had to put my head down. It was a surreal feeling,” Treviño said. “I want to be ready if I have the opportunity to have a child again.”

Motion filed in La Joya ISD retaliation case

By Julie Silva

ttorneys for Hidalgo County Pct. 3 Commissioner Joe Flores have filed a motion to dismiss him in a case filed by a group of current and former La Joya ISD employees after the 2012 district election alleging retaliation. Attorney Javier Peña, on behalf of a few dozen plaintiffs, filed the original lawsuit in April 2014 in Hidalgo County. La Joya Independent School District, trustees Joel Garcia, Juan Jose “J.J.” Garza, Jesus “Chuy” Avendaño and Oscar “Coach” Salinas and Flores were named as defendants in the suit, and attorneys for La Joya ISD moved the case to federal court in May 2014. Flores’ motion to dismiss states that more than a year later he has not been served with the suit. The case is set to go to trial Aug. 10, and several deadlines have expired, the document states. It also cites a federal rule that if a defendant is not served within 120 days of the day

the complaint is filed, the defendant must be dismissed. Peña’s suit alleges that each of the employees represented did not support Team Liberty, “a political faction headed by Defendant Joe Flores.” “Defendant Flores used his influence and control over the LJISD Board of Trustees and LJISD supervisory employees as a tool to punish the Plaintiffs for their failure to support Team Liberty,” the suit states. The school district’s answer denies any harassment or hostile work environment. In each case, the answer states all actions were in accordance with the district’s policies and procedures. Flores filed his own lawsuit against Peña in May 2014. Flores’ suit was also against former State Rep. Kino Flores; Ruth Villarreal, a former insurance provider for La Joya Independent School District; and Arnold Ochoa, a former La Joya ISD trustee and former city of Palmview employee. According to Joe Flores,

the suits were filed against him because he supported Team Liberty, a slate of candidates in the 2012 La Joya ISD board election that ran against Kino Flores’ chosen candidates. In a plea to jurisdiction to have the case thrown out and a counterclaim, Peña compared Joe Flores’ behavior to the mafia. Peña stated that the fact that the sitting judge on one of the cases denied a motion to dismiss proves the lawsuits are not frivolous. Flores’ lawsuit remains pending in the 398th District Court. Meanwhile U.S. District Judge Micaela Alvarez has issued $500 in sanctions against Peña in the employee retaliation case in federal court. In a November order, Alvarez states Peña was first ordered to pay $100 in August because he was late to the initial pretrial and scheduling conference. Peña later provided a copy of a check for the $100, but did not show

ed in both the elementary and junior high categories. Cavazos Elementary School came in second place, with 987 pounds of recyclable items. Salinas Elementary

School was third, with 543 pounds of recyclable items. In the junior high school category, R. Cantu Jr. High School came in second place in Recycle Bowl 1.

See RETALIATION 10A

Alton Elementary School wins the Alton Recycle Bowl 1

Jose “Fred” Treviño walks down the runway Saturday at a finale event with the H-E-B Slim Down Showdown. Treviño was the named the Partner Slim Down Showdown winner and took home $10,000.

ission Consolidated Independent School District schools have a history of supporting local recycling efforts and incorporating these programs into student studies. As a part of its growing recycling program, the City of Alton held its first Recycle Bowl Competition between the schools located within the city. The schools were given a two-week period to collect as many recyclables as possible, consisting of paper and cardboard. The items were then collected by the City of Alton and judged by weight. Alton Elementary School won Recycle Bowl 1 in the elementary category, collecting 1,112 pounds of recyclable items. This was also the highest overall collect-

Pictured from left to right are: Adan Ramirez, Alton Elementary School principal; Denally Escalona, student council vice president; Alyssa Botello, student council president; Rudy

lifestyle

May 29, 2015

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NEWS | SPORTS | ENTERTAINMENT | PHOTOS

Speer Memorial Library gears up for 2015 summer programs

peer Memorial Library is gearing up for the 2015 Summer Reading Program for patrons of all ages. The them for this year is “Every hero has a story.” Official registration for the program will commence June 1-4 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Children’s Department; however, participants will be able to register throughout the duration of

the program. The program runs through July 2 and is available for children Pre-K through 5th grade, but additional grade levels are also welcome to attend. Children who register will have the opportunity to read their favorite books and submit a short book report after each reading. All children registered will receive a reading certifi-

cate at the end of the program and be invited to the summer fun party, July 2nd, where top readers will receive a medal. The library will offer arts and crafts, movie days, guest speakers, Yogaerobics, free lunch and other activities to promote the enjoyment of reading during the summer. Children from six months to four years of age can also

For more information contact Omar I. Rodriguez, Manager of Communications and Advocacy, at (956) 9044514 or by email at omarir@

foodbankrgv.com. Also visit www.foodbankrgv.com at any time for information regarding other programs and events.

Help End Hunger with H-E-B until June 24

-E-B and H-E-B Plus grocery stores across the Rio Grande Valley are again partnering with the Food Bank RGV to “Help End Hunger”. H-E-B customers can help feed their neighbors by making donations of $1, $3 or $5 at checkout counters with pre-printed donation slips provided by H-E-B. “The Help End Hunger campaign reminds the public about the 1 in4 Valley households that struggle with hunger and it’s a quick and easy way to make a donation that makes a big impact,” Terri Drefke, FBRGV Executive Director, said. “But it only makes an impact if people give during checkout.”

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join us and register for Summer Tykes held on Wednesdays at 10 a.m. Babies are invited to enjoy Yoga for Babies, Story Time, Nursery Rhymes, and Arts & Crafts. This summer the library will host Bots & Books on Thursdays at 6 p.m. for children ages six and older. The program invites participants to build and program LEGO models utilizing motors and sensors. Space is limited to thirty participants per session on a first come, first served basis. Don’t worry if you don’t get an opportunity to sign up during the summer as the program is to be continued in the fall and winter months. Summer is upon us so parents and children may want to stop by Speer Memorial Library or visit our web site for information about how to keep their children engaged in reading and learning. Studies show that students who do not read during the summer can experience “summer set-back,” losing ground in learning and returning to school less ready for the next year than when they began their summer break. “Speer Memorial Library has seen a significant increase in children's participation in summer reading programs in the past years,” stated Lisa Rivera, Children’s Librarian. “Our hope is to surpass those numbers and continue growing.” Speer Memorial Library announces the continued sponsorship with Mission Consolidated Independent School District Summer Food Service Program that will be providing lunch at no charge on Mondays through Fridays from 12 to 1 p.m. for children from ages one to eighteen. Want to volunteer? Want

See SUMMER PROGRAMS 7A

Events Calendar

Jun e 1-4 – Speer Memorial Library will be beginning registration for their summer programs from 2 to 4 p.m. The program runs through July 2. The program runs through July 2 and is available for children Pre-K through 5th grade, but additional grade levels are also welcome to attend. Children who register will have the opportunity to read their favorite books and submit a short book report after each reading. Top readers will receive medals at the duration of the program. Speer Memorial Library is located at 12th and Kika De La Garza Loop in Mission. Jun e 4 –Learn how to preserve plants to study them up close at the Edinburg Scenic Wetlands & World Birding Center from 5:30 p.m. – 7 p.m. Join the naturalist staff and learn the technique to complete your own plant press and get tips on how to properly collect samples from your own garden. The Edinburg Scenic Wetlands and World Birding Center is located at 714 S. Raul Longoria Rd. (in the Edinburg Municipal Park) in Edinburg. Jun e 7 – The Tip of Texas Orchid Society will be meeting at the Valley Nature Center in Weslaco at 2 p.m. to discuss semi-hydronic system of growing orchids. To learn more about the speakers visit theorchidhouse.org. Admission is free, but registration is recommended. Visit www.totorchidsociety.org or call 212-0032 or 969-2475 for more information. Jun e 9 – Quinta Mazatlan will hold a Close Encounters of the Animal Kind Camp for children ages six to eight. Participants will have the chance to experience close encounters with wild creatures from reptiles, to insects, to fish and birds. The camp runs June 9 through June 12 from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. and costs $50 for residents, $60 for non-residents. Call 681-3370 for more information. Jun e 13 – The Edinburg World Birding Center invites all toddlers to learn more about nature. This month the activity will be about snakes. Activities may include puppet shows, story-telling, puzzle time, free play, coloring, crafts, and guided walks throughout the grounds. Fee per toddler is $2, with one free guardian. Additional family members visiting must pay regular EWBC admission. Space is limited so call ahead to register. The Edinburg Scenic Wetlands and World Birding Center is located at 714 S. Raul Longoria Rd. (in the Edinburg Municipal Park) in Edinburg. Jun e 16 – Quinta Mazatlan will hold a Survivor Skills Camp for children ages nin to 12. The camp will run through June 19 from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. Participants will learn how to survive outdoors by building a primitive hut, using a bow and arrow, exploring for geocaches, learning animal tracks, finding safe food in the natural forest and more. The camp costs $50 for residents, $60 for non-residents. Call 681-3370 for more information. To see the complete Events Calendar for the coming weeks, go to www.ptrgv.com.

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.

May 29, 2015

All ‘Fore’ The Kids Golf Tournament

Troop 83 Eagle Scout Creates a Wildlife Creek at Quinta Mazatlan Eagle Scout Candidate Omar Salinas, a Boy Scout in Troop 83 is working to create a wildlife creek at Quinta Mazatlan in McAllen, Texas. The creek adds wonderful diversity to the urban sanctuary and provides entertainment and educational opportunities for all. Scout Omar Salinas is a graduating junior at Sharyland High School. Manager Colleen Hook shares that the City of McAllen is very appreciative of the scouts stewardship and hard work in helping the environment.

ART IN THE PARK

Trevino Wright, executive director of the center. “Two paintings that come to mind are Claude Monet’s iconic Waterlilies, and Christina’s World by Andrew Wyeth. Whether artists are staging scenes in the gardens or rendering their own interpretations of flora and fauna from images captured here, who knows what may be seen or produced by local talent this summer.” In order to participate in Art in the Park, one must be a member of the Upper Valley

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Art League. One of the oldest nonprofit organizations in the Rio Grande Valley, UVAL has been meeting the needs of artists in south Texas, since 1935. The exhibit is open to al mediums, but especially to oil, acrylic, watercolor, photography and digital art. Wall art is limited to 48”x48” and must be wired for hanging. Artists may submit up to four pieces which must be prioritized by preference for display. Due to space limitations, first preference will be

from pg 2A

exhibitied. However, other submissions might be used for promotional artwork for the National Butterfly Center and Upper Valley Art League. Guidelines for the program, competition categories, and full contest rules, along with the membership application, may be found online at www.uppervalleyartleague.org. Winning submissions will be on display at the National Butterfly Center from September 19 through the end of November.

he Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce is prepping for thier All ‘Fore’ The Kids Golf Tournament that will be held in July. Not only does the tournament offer an opportunity to get to know both fellow Chamber members and prospective members while enjoying fresh air and friendly competition on the greens, this year's tournament benefits the Mission CISD Back to School Bash by assisting in providing backpacks filled with school supplies to Mission CISD students. The All ‘Fore’ The Kids Golf Tournament will take place July 17, 2015 at The Club at Cimarron, located at 1200 South Shary Road, Mission. Golfers will enjoy a fun-filled day complete with golf, networking, special contests, and great food. Teams of four and individual golfers are welcome to participate.

SUMMER PROGRAMS

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to provide assistance for the Summer Reading Program? Want to help provide a variety of fun activities for children. If you are, please contact Lisa Rivera, Children’s Librarian, at 956-580-8753. Speer Memorial Library is located at 12th and Kika De La Garza Loop in Mission. The library is open (except for Holidays) Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. till 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday 8 a.m. till 5 p.m. and from 12 p.m. till 5 p.m. on Sunday.

Sponsorship of this tournament is a cost-effective way to gain exposure for your business. Sponsorships are available at prices to fit every budget ranging from $200 to $5000. Sponsorship opportunities are limited and spaces will fill up quickly, so reserve your level early. There are also marketing opportunities available to promote your business by donating a raffle prize.

Showcase your company’s products or services to local business leaders and gain new customers. Donors will be listed on raffle signage at the event and recognized from the podium during the drawing. Another way to get involved is by volunteering at the tournament. This is a great way to support the

See KIDS GOLF 10A

May 29, 2015

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Patriots advance to Sweet 16

By Luciano Guerra

he Veterans Memorial Patriots baseball team has been enjoying the sweet taste of success all season long. First they opened their season with eight straight wins. Then they won 10 of their 12 District 31-5A games to claim a share of the district title. Then they swept the Mercedes Tigers to earn their first bi-district championship and then took two out of three from Gregory Portland to claim their first ever area championship. Despite having already experienced more success than any other Veterans Memorial baseball team, the 2015 Patriots were not satisfied. They wanted more, so they would have to get past the Roma Gladiators in the Regional Quarterfinal round. Having already defeated the Gladiators twice in district play this season the odds of the Patriots adding one more championship trophy to their trophy case looked good. However, this was the playoffs and as Veterans Memorial head coach Casey Smith knows all too well, what happens in district play stays in district play and the Patriots’ 2-0 loss to Roma in the opening game of the bestof-three series was proof of that. Having lost their series

opener against Gregory Portland the week before the Patriots found themselves having to win the remaining two games of the series to advance once again. That is what they did against Gregory Portland and that is what they went on to do against Roma as they took game 2 by a score of 14-3 and game 3, 15-5. When asked what the difference was between game 1 and games 2 and 3 Smith said, “Nothing. I’ve said it all along. We played very well in that first game they just happened to play a little bit better. They’re a good team and they play tough. I thought that we played consistently the whole time but nothing fell in Game No. 1.” Senior David de los Santos, who plays third base and catcher for the Patriots, has a .345 batting average with 29 hits and 30 RBIs over 33 games. He attributes his team’s ability to come back from 1-0 deficits in back-toback series to the Patriots’ strengths in the three main facets of the game. “It really helps to know that we can come back from an opening game loss to win a series,” de los Santos said. “As long as we keep that mentality we should be fine. With our pitching, our good defense and good offense we’ll be able to stay in the

game no matter what.” Sophomore Christian Ramos pitched and won the third and deciding game against Roma, and he did the same against Gregory Portland. He was also the winning pitcher in the series clinching game against Mercedes. In eight starts this season he is 8-0 with a 1.25 ERA (earned run average). “I try not to think about it,” said Ramos about the fact that his last two starts were

See PATRIOTS 10A

Above: Veterans Memorial third baseman David de los Santos puts the tag on a Roma base runner during Game No. 1 of the Patriots vs Gladiators Regional Quarterfinal playoff series. RIGHT: Veterans Memorial’s Edward Pena is tagged out at second base during Game No. 2 of the Patriots vs Roma Gladiators Regional Quarterfinal playoff series. Progress Times photos by Luciano Guerra

Lady Rattlers’ Gonzalez and Watson top All-Valley list By Luciano Guerra The Sharyland Lady Rattlers soccer team underwent major changes this year. First there was the split of Sharyland High into two high schools. The opening of Pioneer High literally split the team in half as many of the girls that had contributed to the Lady Rattlers’ re-

cent success were now Lady Diamondbacks. Then there was the change at the top as longtime head Lady Rattlers’ coach J.J. Lopez made the move to Pioneer bringing former Mission Lady Eagles’ head coach Aaron Clemons to Sharyland. How the Lady Rattlers would respond to such drastic changes was anybody’s

guess. The fact that they exceeded pretty much everybody’s expectations by going 12 – 0 in District 31-5A play, clinching the district title by six points over the second place Lady Diamondbacks and advancing into the fourth round of the playoffs was due in large part to the play of one senior and one freshman – Nikki Gonzalez and

Kaitie Watson. Gonzalez and Watson were both recently recognized for the parts they played in the Lady Rattlers’ success by being named All-Valley Player of the Year and All-Valley Newcomer of the year respectively. Receiving All-Valley honors is nothing new for Gonzalez. As a sophomore she was named All-Valley Defensive Player of the Year. Last year as a junior she was selected to the All-Valley First Team. While she had aspirations of garnering the highly coveted Player of the Year honor in this, her senior year she had her doubts about whether or not the fact that she’s a defensive specialist would count against her. “Going into this season I was actually hoping to go even one step higher than

All-Valley by being named to the All-Region First Team as a defensive player which I was,” explained Gonzalez. “As for All-Valley I was hoping to get at least another All-Valley Defensive Player of the Year honor so by being named Player of the Year I did take a step up from that. I’m really proud of myself that I got the overall MVP; especially as a defensive player.” Despite being a freshman Watson led the Lady Rattlers in scoring with 36 goals. While she had some concerns going into the season about whether or not she would be good enough to start on the varsity squad, the fact that she played summer ball with some of her now Lady Rattlers’ teammates made her transition to the varsity squad much easier.

That is one reason she sees her being named Newcomer of the Year as something she can share with her team. “It means a lot to me because the competition I was up against was very stiff and I knew that I had to work really hard for it,” shared Watson. “Receiving this honor is a very big deal for me. It not only means that I accomplished something personally but also for my team so I was very happy to find out that I had been given that honor.” Only three other Big 7 schools’ players received All-Valley honors and all three are from a Sharyland school. They are Pioneer’s Julie Alanis (First Team midfielder) and Taylor Marquez (Second Team defender) and Sharyland’s Barbara Cantu (Second Team defender).

May 29, 2015

obituaries

Corina Benavidez ISSION - Corina Benavidez, 77, passed away on Monday, May 25, 2015 at Comfort House Hospice Facility in McAllen. She is survived by her children, Aide Benavidez, Alva Rodriguez; three siblings; and two grandchildren. She was preceded in death by Melchor Benavidez. A funeral mass was held on Thursday, May 28, 2015 at St. John of the Fields Catholic Church in Mission. Burial followed at San Jose Cemetery in Mission. Dora ‘Doris’ Elena Cadena-Vergara ISSION - Dora Elena Cadena-Vergara (Doris), 45, passed away on Tuesday, May 19, 2015. She is survived by her husband, Pedro Damian Vergara; daughter, Karina Elaine Cadena; sisters, Patricia, Imelda, and Marty. She was preceded in death by her father, Juan Patricio Cadena; and mother, Maria Del Refugio Esparza-Cadena. Church services were held at Our Lady of Guadalupe, Saturday, May 23, 2015 at 11:30 a.m. Interment followed at Valley Memorial Gardens. Funeral mass for Dora E. Cadena-Vergara was held Friday, May 23, 2015, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Mission. Burial followed at Valley Memorial Gardens in McAllen. Ramona G. Gonzalez ISSION - Ramona G. Gonzalez, 89, passed away on Friday, May 22, 2015 at Amara Hospice in Edinburg. She was born to Antonio Gandaria and Avelina Salinas Gandaria on July 30, 1925 in Havana, Texas. She is survived by her children, Porfirio Gonzalez, Jr., Alberto Gonzalez, Arturo Gonzalez, Yolanda Mercado, Armando Gonzalez and Norma York; eleven grandchildren; and eleven great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Porfirio Gonzalez, Sr.

A funeral mass was held Tuesday, May 26, 2015 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Mission. Burial followed at Laurel Hill Cemetery in Mission. Maria Z. Ramirez ENITAS - Maria Z. Ramirez, 87, died Thursday, May 21, 2015, at her Penitas residence. Born on April 20, 1928 to Guadalupe and Benilde Zamora, she was raised most of her life in Penitas. She is survived by her husband of sixty-six years, Jose Ramirez, Jr.; her children, Irma Nelda Ramirez, Jose Ramirez III, Fernando Ramirez, Servando Ramirez, Gerardo Ramirez, Jaime Ramirez, Lisa Ann Garcia, Anysia Roxana Trevino, Cesar Ramirez; her siblings, Benilde Ramirez, Juan, Soid, Hilda Tomlinson, Guadalupe, Jr., Abelardo, Joel, and Noel; 24 grandchildren; and

Notices

Daniel Edward Campbell MISSION – A funeral mass for Daniel Edward Campbell was held Thursday, May 21, 2015, at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Mission. Osvaldo Alejandro Castillo SULLIVAN CITY - Osvaldo Alejandro Castillo, 9, died Friday, May 22, 2015 in Corpus Christi. Eusebia G. De Leon MISSION - Chapel services for Eusebia G. De Leon were held Wednesday, May 27, 2015, at Flores Funeral Home. Burial followed at La Piedad Cemetery in McAllen. Valentin de Leon MISSION - Services for Valentin de Leon were held Wednesday, May 27, 2015, at Roselawn Cemetery in McAllen. Guadalupe Diaz MISSION - Guadalupe Diaz, 84, died Saturday, May 23, 2015 at Paxvilla Hospice in McAllen. Catarina Flores MISSION - Catarina Flores, 84, died Friday, May 22, 2015 at McAllen Medical Center. Chapel services were held Monday, May 25, 2015 at The Lord and I Fu-

five great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her eldest son, Efrain; her brothers, Eugenio, Noe, Ruben, Julian, and Hector; and sisters, Guadalupe Moreno and Belia Garza. A funeral mass was held Tuesday, May 26, 2015 at 9:30 a.m. at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Peñitas. Interment followed to Rio Grande Valley State Veteran’s Cemetery in Mission. Gregoria Carrillo Tarbutton ISSION - Gregoria Carrillo Tarbutton, 92, passed away Saturday, May 23, 2015 at Mission Regional Medical Center in Mission. Gregoria was born May 20, 1923 in Rio Grande City to the late Higinio and Leonor (Quevado) Carrillo. She is survived by her children, Arthur Tarbutton Jr., David Lamar Tarbutton and Patrick Edward Tarbutton; siblings, Alizia Corona and Israel Corona; and eight

grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband, Arthur Lee Tarbutton; and her parents. A Mass of Christian burial was held Thursday, May 28, 2015 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Mission. Interment followed at Valley Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Mission.

neral Home of Sullivan City. Burial followed at Cuevitas Cemetery. Leonor Longoria MISSION – A funeral mass for Leonor Longoria was held Thursday, May 21, 2015, at St. Mary Magdalene Catholic Church in Abram. Burial followed at San Jose Cemetery in Abram. Carol Garcia MISSION – A memorial service for Carol Garcia was held Wednesday, May 27, 2015, at Ric Brown Family Funeral Home in Mission. Inurnment followed at Rio Grande Valley State Veterans Cemetery in Mission. Adolfo Garza MISSION - Adolfo Garza, 86, died Friday, May 22, 2015 at Mission Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. Daniel Leal Garza MISSION - Daniel Leal Garza, 80, died Sunday May 24, 2015 at Mission Regional Medical Center. Joan H. Gebhardt MISSION - Joan H. Gebhardt, 84, died Thursday, May 21, 2015, at Lifecare Hospital in McAllen. Cremation was held Monday, May 25 at Val Verde Memorial Gardens in Donna.

Francisco Guzman PALMHURST - Francisco Guzman 85, died Friday, May 22, 2015 at Retama Manor Nursing Center in McAllen. Funeral services were held Tuesday, May 26, 2015 at Funeraria del Angel in Mission. Burial followed at Valley Memorial Gardens in Mission. Ignacia Lara MISSION - Funeral services for Ignacia Lara were held Monday, May 25, 2015 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Mission. Burial followed at Lord and I Cemetery in Palmview. Leonor Longoria MISSION – A funeral mass for Leonor Longoria was held Thursday, May 21, 2015, at St. Mary Magdalene Catholic Church in Abram. Burial followed at San Jose Cemetery in Abram. Maria Obregon MISSION - Maria Obregon, 88, died Monday, May 25, 2015 at her residence in Mission. David Paredes MISSION - David Paredes, 78 died Monday May 18, 2015.

All obituaries must be submitted by the funeral home. Obituary notices are run FREE OF CHARGE in the Progress Times if they are submitted in a timely manner to run the same week of the date of death. Otherwise, there is a fee for notices submitted later than the closest possible publication date. Late obituaries will be subject to a $50 charge. Obituaries can be found online and are updated as they are received. Visit www. progresstimes.net to stay current with obituaries and other news that matters to you.

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

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IMPLEMENT COMPANY, INC. MISSION 585-1618

  

 



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

 

EWBC hosts Family Summer Adventure Challenge

f you’re looking for something different to do with your family this summer, then the Family Summer Adventure Challenge (FSAC) at the Edinburg Scenic Wetlands and World Birding Center (EWBC) may be the answer. The Center will kick of the Family Summer Adventure Challenge on Saturday, May 30, 2015. This is an opportunity to get outside and enjoy the outdoors. Family Summer Adventure Challenge gives participants a chance to spend quality time together while visiting different nature centers and parks of the Rio Grande Valley while completing different tasks. Upon completion of the challenges and a journal submission, participants’ names will be placed in a drawing for the opportunity to win prizes. The Family Summer Ad-

Antonio Raya ALTON – A funeral service for Antonio Raya was held Thursday, May 21, 2015, at San Martin de Porres in Alton. Burial followed at Garden of Angels Cemetery in Abram. Rosalio Rios MISSION - Rosalio Rios, 91, died Monday, May 25, 2015 at his residence in Mission. Maria Salinas PENITAS - Maria Salinas, 93, died Saturday, May 22, 2015 at her residence in Peñitas. Guillermo Vasquez MISSION - Guillermo Vasquez, Jr. 53, died Friday, May 22, 2015, at Comfort House in McAllen. Funeral services were held Monday, May 25, 2015, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Parish in San Juan. Burial followed at Val Verde Memorial Gardens in Donna. Felicitas S. Villarreal MISSION - Felicitas S. Villarreal, 95, died Monday, May 25, 2015 at Rio Grande Regional Medical Center.

venture Challenge is for families with children between the ages of six to 12. The deadline to complete challenges and turn in journals is Saturday, August 1. Pick up a copy of the Family Summer Adventure Challenge journal at the EWBC or print a copy by visiting www.edinburgwbc.org. Only one prize pack will be awarded per winning family. Participants of the Family Summer Adventure Challenge will receive a free pass to the park’s Summer Adventure at the Wetlands event, open to the public. Family Summer Adventure Challenge winners will be announced at this event. Summer Adventure at the Wetlands will be held on Saturday, August 8, from 3 to 8 p.m. The Edinburg Scenic Wetlands & World Birding Center is located at 714 S. Raul Longoria Rd. (in the Edinburg Municipal Park). For more Family Summer Adventure Challenge information call 381-9922.

Plant Press Making at EWBC

earn how to preserve plants to study them up close at the Edinburg Scenic Wetlands & World Birding Center on Thursday, June 4, from 5:30 p.m. – 7 p.m. Join the naturalist staff and learn the technique to complete your own plant press and get tips on how to properly collect samples from your own garden. Don’t miss the opportunity to observe plants and collect a few, all while keeping the safety of the plants in mind. The Edinburg Scenic Wetlands and World Birding Center is located at 714 S. Raul Longoria Rd. (in the Edinburg Municipal Park) in Edinburg, Texas. Entrance fees are $3 for adults and $2 for children over age five and seniors, 55 and older. For more information on these and other programs, call (956) 381-9922 or visit www.edinburgwbc.org.

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FOOD TRUCK

from pg 1A

Taking another tact for denial, Tijerina said Treviño had several buildings on a long strip of land at that location. He said there were too many businesses for the area on which they were located. Tijerina said Treviño had done the plumbing and electricity for those buildings himself without getting permits from the city. He continued to work on illegal plumbing and electricity in those businesses in spite of being told to stop by the city, Tijerina said. The council decided to table the item to see if there was a way to work with Treviño. A third zoning request the council spent time discussing was a request for a drive-thru service window at 901 W. Business 83 in the Holland Center Subdivision. The window had been built without permits from the city. City staff said there is no stacking room for cars, the drive was located next to the front door and the protective bollards placed in front of the drive were not permanent; they could be moved if a car hit them. The drive is also too close to the gasoline tanks, city officials said. The P&Z recommended working with the owner, Efren Rocha, to see if the window could be relocated to allow stacking room for vehicles and to replace the current bollards with permanent ones that could not be moved by a car. Rocha told the council the office area was very small and it would be a hardship to move the window. He wanted to keep things they way they were.

Tijerina recommended denial of the permit. Garza suggested safety of customers was the primary concern. He was worried about the close proximity to the pumps. Councilman Ruben Plata recommended approval of the permit but it died for lack of a second. Councilwoman Norie Garza recommended tabling the item to work with Rocha to see if he would reconsider moving the window. The council agreed with Garza and tabled the request. Under budget items, $337,000 was added to a fund so that repairs on the Catholic War Veterans Service Center can be completed. A resolution was approved for Mission Police Department to submit a grant to the Office of the Attorney General’s Crime Victim Services Division for 2015-2017 Victim Coordinator and Liaison Grant. If approved, the city will receive an $84,000 grant that requires no cash match for the city’s Crime Victim Liaison Program.

KIDS GOLF from pg 7A

Chamber while having fun in the fresh air. Volunteer opportunities will include golfer registration, greeting golfers at the bag drop, setting up sponsor signage on the course, and monitoring special contests during the event. For more information regarding sponsorships, please contact us at 585-2727 or events@missionchamber. com.

RETALIATION from pg 5A

proof it had been mailed to the courthouse by the date ordered, Alvarez stated. In September, Peña was ordered to come before the court “to show cause why he

H-E-B DONATES

“H-E-B is committed to supporting our customers across Texas. We are diligently working to provide relief to the communities affected by the recent floods and tornadoes,” said Winell Herron, group vice president of public affairs and diversity for H-E-B. “H-E-B’s tear pad campaign offers a convenient and efficient way for our customers to make a difference in the lives of thousands of families in need.”

HEROES

of “God Bless America,” sung by Krystal Cavazos, whose grandfather is a veteran, and “You’re a Grand Old Flag,” sung by Our Lady of Guadalupe Cub Scout Troop No. 305, were somber moments of prayer and reflection on all the soldiers who have lost their lives fighting for the United States of America. Mario Lizcano acted as the Master of Ceremony of the event, held at Leo Peña Placita Park. Lupe A. Gonzalez, principal at Our Lady of Guadalupe and Vietnam veteran, served as keynote speaker. Gonzalez emphasized that Memorial Day is a holiday, though not a happy event. “But it’s a somber and solemn occasion,” he said. “We honor those who have given their lives for this country.” Americans are asked to do two things on Memorial Day, he said. First, pause at 11 a.m., play “Taps” and thank those who given their lives for this country. The second thing, he said, is to raise the American flag in the morning to full staff, and then lower it to half staff. At noon, it’s to be raised back to full staff. “At noon, the raising of the flag signifies the memory raised by those of us who are living who resolve not to let their sacrifices be in vain, but to instead rise up in their stead and continue to fight for liberty and justice for all,” Gonzalez said. He also emphasized that soldiers do not choose the wars in which they fight, but they answer the call of duty to serve and defend. Gonzalez asked all vet-

legalnotice Date: 05/26/2015

May 29, 2015

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CITY OF PALMHURST BID-PROPOSAL FORM Description of Project:

Project No. 2015-003 City Contact: Lupe Garcia, City Planner lgarcia@cityofpalmhurst.com Engineer Contact: Trinity MEP Engineering Leo Munoz, P.E. – Principal (956) 973-0500 leo@trinitymep.com Submit proposal attention to: Lori A. Lopez, City Manager

Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing for Maintenance Offices & Warehouse Finish Project

Specifications: (additional specifications attached) Specifications can be picked up at Palmhurst City Hall for a non refundable fee of $50.00

Submission Due Date & Time: (SEALED ENVELOPE) Thursday, June 11, 2015 at 10:00 am, City Hall Office SEAL BIDS WITH ATTACHED PROPOSAL TO BID FORM Project Number: 2015-003 Address: 4417 N Shary Rd, Palmhurst, Texas 78573 Submission of proposals will be in writing, and accompanied by this form. “Submission” means delivery of materials to be considered to the address stated above. Submit documents, brochures, drawings, photographs or any other information you wish to be considered as part of your proposal. No Facsimiles or late arrivals will be accepted. Any proposals received after submission due date and time will not be opened and will be returned. City of Palmhurst Purchasing Department time stamp clock will be the governing time for acceptability of bids. Over-night mail must also be properly labeled on the outside of the express envelope or package in reference to Request for Proposal with the Project Number. Proposals submitted in response to this Request for Proposal will be opened publicly by the City Secretary of Palmhurst, Texas immediately after the submission due date and time. Any proposals received after offer submission due date and time will not be opened and will be returned by mail or courier. The City Secretary’s decision on these matters will be final. Firm Offer Period: Proposals submitted shall be “offers” and/or a “binding bid” from the submitter, and such offers will remain firm for a period of 60 calendar days from the submission due date.

should not be further sanctioned” or he could pay $250 by Sept. 12. At that time, an employee for Peña submitted an affidavit stating she mailed a $100 check on Sept. 15. Alvarez stated the court did not receive the check, from pg 3A

In the wake of the floods affecting H-E-B communities, company employees are distributing more than 5,000 Disaster Relief Cleanup Kits to residents returning to their homes. These kits contain most needed items like trash bags, paper towels, bleach, all-purpose spray cleaner, gloves, sunscreen and insect repellent. More than 15 H-E-B stores near impacted areas are providing additional direct relief and needed items. erans in the crowd to stand up and be recognized, and then he did the same for their families. Families, Gonzalez said, also make a sacrifice and suffer along with their soldiers. Rose Guerra, who lost her son Pfc. Diego Montoya when he was killed in Afghanistan Sept. 2, 2010, exemplifies Gonzalez’s words. Guerra read a poem she wrote titled, “The Soldier,” standing next to a picture of her son’s coffin being carried off a flight. It’s called a dignified transfer, Guerra said. The picture is powerful, she said, and she debated bringing it out for the ceremony. In it, squad soldiers in white gloves carry the coffin draped with an American flag. “It shows a lot of impact, but I have gotten used to seeing it, and the grief and the sorrow have turned into much pride and much honor,” Guerra said. And then she pointed to two other photos on display of families reacting as soldiers are buried. It’s important, she said, to remember what the families are going through. “That is what it costs for us to enjoy the freedom of that we are enjoying in fact right now – the freedom of speech; the freedom to gather, to come and do these things; the freedom to worship, whether it’s at that church or the other one or the one down the street; the freedom to educate ourselves and better ourselves that we are not a country that has to stay within one social level because we have those freedoms,” Guerra said.

and it wouldn’t have complied with the court’s order. Then, in October, Peña explained to the court that the original $100 check had been sent to the wrong address. He was asked to come back with proof within a week, but on the day of the deadline, his secretary hand-delivered the $250 check, Alvarez states in her order. Another hearing was scheduled for November, at which Peña told the court the clerk’s office would not accept the supplemental proof of the original $100 check his secretary brought with her when she turned in the $250 check. The secretary’s affidavit only mentions the $250 check, Alvarez states.

“The Court would have much preferred a truthful, though unsatisfying explanation for Mr. Pena’s non-compliance than his attempts to appease the Court with statements that are not supported by facts,” Alvarez stated. Peña was then penalized another $250, for $500 total. Alvarez reprimanded him one last time in December when the $250 check was brought three days after the deadline. “The Court finds Mr. Pena’s defiance both disrespectful and inexcusable, but the Court has already expended considerable time and resources addressing Mr. Pena’s behavior, so no further action will be taken at this time,” Alvarez stated. from pg 1A

TOP: The crowd salutes as the National Anthem is sung. BOTTOM: Krystal Cavazos sings the National Anthem.

MCISD

from pg 1A

school board. “Being an attorney, most people think you’re going to run for judge, and maybe some day, but this is my passion right now,” O’Caña-Olivarez said referring to the school board. “I am what I am not only because of my family but because of my school district and the teachers that I had along the way.” Alvarez-Alonzo and her husband Victor are regulars at the monthly board meetings. The teacher of 15 years said she wishes more people would take time to see the board members work and attend meetings. In their time spent at district functions, Alvarez-Alonzo said O’Caña-Olivarez truly exemplifies what Mission is about. “Our Mission statement

ends with our goal for our students serving as successful citizens for our community, and she truly exemplifies that,” Alvarez-Alonzo said. The attorney admitted that six of her seven years on the board have been difficult, but she is seeing the work pay off and said she is confident the district is going in the right direction. Although she said her daughter at Mims Elementary serves as inspiration, the board president said she keeps in mind every type of student when making decisions. “Every student, regardless of where they come from, needs to go out and represent Mission CISD in the best way that they can,” O’Caña-Olivarez said. “The only way that they’re going to do that is if we prepare every single student.” O’Caña-Olivarez will be accepting her PUBLIC NOTICE award July 16 at the The Mission City Council will hold a Regular Meeting AT&T Executive Eduon June 8, 2015 at 4:30 p.m. at the City Hall Council cation and Conference Chambers, 1201 East 8th Street, Mission, Texas in order Center in Austin. She is up for reelection to consider the following: next year and will run Rezoning: 0.38 acres out of Lot 184, John H. Shary for at least one more Subdivision, from (C-3) General Business to (R-3) Multi- term. “I want for not just Family Residential; and Rezoning: 1.00 acre out of Lot my daughter to be 235, John H. Shary Subdivision, from (R-1) Single Family proud of me, every parResidential to (C-2) Neighborhood Commercial ent wants their child to If a zoning is amended during the public hearing, it shall be be proud of them, but pursuant to the City of Mission’s Amendatory Zone Policy for the community to be proud of me,” she Statement. Anyone interested is invited to attend. said. Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

PATRIOTS

from pg 8A

PUBLIC NOTICE

The Mission Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a Regular Meeting on June 10, 2015 at 5:00 p.m. at the City Hall Council Chambers, 1201 East 8th Street, Mission, Texas in order to consider the following: Rezoning: 1.735 acre tract of land out of Lot 172, John H. Shary Subdivision, from (R-1) Single Family Residential to (C-3) General Business; and Rezoning: The East 130’ of the South 105’ of Lot 30-12, West Addition to Sharyland Subdivision, from (AO-I) Agricultural Open Interim to (R-1A) Large Lot Single Family; and Rezoning: A 0.89 acre tract of land out of Lot 29-4, West Addition to Sharyland Subdivision, from (AO-I) Agricultural Open Interim to (R-1) Single Family Residential If a zoning is amended during the public hearing, it shall be pursuant to the City of Mission’s Amendatory Zone Policy Statement. Anyone interested is invited to attend. Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

in do-or-die situations for the Patriots. “I just try to pitch my best and do the best I can out there.” Next up for Veterans Memorial are the 21-10 Georgetown Eagles in the Regional Semifinals. As of press deadline Thursday, game 1 of the best-of-three series was played at Calallen High School in Corpus Christi last night. Game 2 will be played tonight at 7 also at Calallen and game 3, if necessary, is to be played at 11 a.m. Saturday at Dickson Stadium at St. Mary’s University in San Antonio.

theclassifieds May 29, 2015

buy • sell • trade • rent • hire

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

miscellaneous MOVING 5 SPOOL Phaffe Serger, sofa chair Ottoman, silverware tea pots, Gretsch electric guitar, 956-551-1734.

realestate

GOLFVIEW MANOR CONDO, 2br, 1 1/2 bath, 55+, newly remodeled,

heated pool, peaceful community, 956844-8186 or 956423-2437.

services

NEED A MAID? Cleaning and cooking services - bilingual - affordable rates. Call Carolina 956-827-1853 or 956-683-6243.

La Joya ISD SURPLUS AUCTION

Saturday May 30th @ 10AM (Preview @ 8am) HWY 83 (The Old Cold Storage Building - West of La Joya) 1 Mile west of FM 2221 10% BP, CASH, VISA, MC www.TEXAS321.COM Texas State Auction - L#11187 EscalEra WrEckEr Inc. 1515 W. 3 MIlE rd. MIssIon, TExas 78573 (956) 585-8245 • Fax 581-6668 Tdlr vsF lIc. no. 0548371

Personal classified rate: $7 for 15 words

25¢ each additional word thereafter

Business classified rate: $15 for 15 words

25¢ each additional word thereafter

MAKE FORD CASE CHEVY

MODEL MUSTANG 580M CK100

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

ORDINANCE 2015-05-0414

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Notice is hereby given that original Letters Testamentary for the ESTATE OF JACKIE HOMER FIELD,JR., DECEASED, were issued to TRUDY FIELD on May 19, 2015, in Docket Number P-36 741, pending in the Probate Court at Law of Hidalgo County, Texas, to: The residence of the Independent Executrix is: TRUDY FIELD PO Box 3927 McAllen, Texas 78504 All persons having claims against this Estate which is currently being administered are required to present them to the Independent Executrix in behalf of the Estate within the time and in the manner prescribed by law.

AN ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR MOBILE FOOD VENDOR REGULATIONS; CONTAINING A REPEALER CLAUSE; CONTAINING A SAVINGS CLAUSE; PROVIDING FOR A PENALTY NOT TO EXCEED $1000.00 PER VIOLATION; AND PROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION AND EFFECTIVE DATE; PROVIDING A WAIVER OF THE THIRD READING; AND ORDAINING OTHER PROVISIONS RELATED TO THE SUBJECT MATTER HEREOF. READ, APPROVED, AND PASSED on this the 14th day of April, 2015. Salvador Vela, Mayor ATTEST: Baudelia Rojas TRMC|CPM, City Secretary

Dated this the 19th Day of May, 2015. LAW OFFICE OF HOLLIS RANKIN, III, PLLC 920-B South McColl Rd. Edinburg, Texas 78539 956 ToWIng & rEcovEry llc 1515 W. 3 MIlE rd. MIssIon, TExas 78573 (956) 585-8245 • Fax: 581-6668 Tdlr vsF lIc. no. 0640957

PURSUANT TO THE PROVISION CONTAINED IN RULE 85.703. SUBCHAPTER F, FROM CHAPTER 85, PART 4 OF TITLE 16 IN THE TEXAS ADMINISTRATIVE CODE, WE ARE OFFICIALLY NOTIFYING YOU THAT THE BELOW DESCRIBED MOTOR VEHICLES HELD IN OUR CUSTODY ARE TO BE PICKED UP, REMOVED AND ALL CHARGES PAID WITHIN (45) DAYS OR THESE VEHICLES WILL BE DECLARED ABANDONED ACCORDING TO TEXAS LAW. YEAR 2012 2008 1984

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VIN# 1ZVBP8EMXC5207188 N8C500031 1GCGC33TXES155499

BALANCE $931.00 $3,301.00 $447.00

TOTAL CHARGES CANNOT BE COMPUTED UNTIL VEHICLE IS CLAIMED. STORAGE CHARGES WILL ACCRUE DAILY UNTIL VEHICLE IS RELEASED. ORDINANCE 2015-07-0512 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF ALTON, TEXAS, CANVASSING AND DECLARING THE RETURNS OF THE MAY 9, 2015 GENERAL ELECTION. READ, APPROVED, AND PASSED on this the 12th day of May, 2015. Salvador Vela, Mayor ATTEST: Baudelia Rojas TRMC|CPM, City Secretary ORDINANCE 2015-04-0324 AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF “CITY OF ALTON, TEXAS COMBINATION TAX AND REVENUE CERTIFICATES OF OBLIGATION, SERIES 2015”; PROVIDING FOR THE PAYMENT OF SAID CERTIFICATES BY THE LEVY OF AN AD VALOREM TAX UPON ALL TAXABLE PROPERTY WITHIN THE CITY AND FURTHER SECURING SAID CERTIFICATES BY A LIEN ON AND PLEDGE OF THE PLEDGED REVENUES DERIVED BY THE CITY FROM THE OPERATION OF THE CITY’S UTILITY/WATER SYSTEM; PROVIDING THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SAID CERTIFICATES AND RESOLVING OTHER MATTERS INCIDENT AND RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE, PAYMENT, SECURITY, SALE, AND DELIVERY OF SAID CERTIFICATES; AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF A PAYING AGENT/REGISTRAR AGREEMENT AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE, WAIVING SECOND AND THIRD READING. READ, APPROVED, AND PASSED on this the 24th day of March, 2015. Salvador Vela, Mayor ATTEST: Baudelia Rojas TRMC|CPM, City Secretary ORDINANCE 2015-06-0414 Amendment to Ordinance 2010-13, as amended AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE 2010-13 OF THE CITY OF ALTON, TEXAS WHICH AMENDED ORDINANCE 99-04 ARTICLE I AND II, SECTION 30-7, AS PREVIOUSLY AMENDED, REVISING THE RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERICAL SEWER BILLING RATE FOR ALL ALTON SEWER BILLINGS RATES, AND NOW REQUIRING ALL CITIZENS TO CONNECT TO SEWER SERVICE ADJACENT TO OR ABUTTING THEIR REAL PROPERTY, PROVIDING FOR A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE AND OTHER MATTERS, WAIVING SECOND AND THIRD READING. READ, APPROVED, AND PASSED on this the 14th day of April, 2015. Salvador Vela, Mayor ATTEST: Baudelia Rojas TRMC|CPM, City Secretary ORDINANCE 2015-08-0526 APPOINTING 6 MEMBERS TO THE PREVIOUSLY ESTABLISHED BOARD OF DIRECTORS FOR TAX INCREMENT REINVESTMENT ZONE NUMBER ONE, CITY OF ALTON REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT, WAIVING SECOND AND THIRD READING. READ, APPROVED, AND PASSED on this the 26th day of May, 2015. Salvador Vela, Mayor ATTEST: Baudelia Rojas TRMC|CPM, City Secretary

ORDINANCE NO. 4229 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MISSION, TEXAS GRANTING A REZONING LOT 20, VILLA CAPRI SUBDIVISION, FROM C-1 (OFFICE BUILDING) TO C-3 (GENERAL BUSINESS) READ, CONSIDERED AND PASSED, THIS THE 26TH DAY OF MAY, 2015. Norberto Salinas, Mayor ATTEST: Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

ORDINANCE NO. 4230 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MISSION, TEXAS GRANTING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR THE SALE & ON-SITE CONSUMPTION OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES – THE BEST FLAVORED BEER BAR & GRILL, 2306 E. EXPRESSWAY 83, STE. 8, LOT 1, CIMARRON CROSSING PH. I SUBDIVISION READ, CONSIDERED AND PASSED, THIS THE 26TH DAY OF MAY, 2015. Norberto Salinas, Mayor ATTEST: Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

ORDINANCE NO. 4231

ORDINANCE NO. 4232

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MISSION, TEXAS GRANTING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR ZARAH’S TACOS MOBILE FOOD UNIT, 808 S. SHARY ROAD, LOT 5A, CIMARRON CROSSING PH. II SUBDIVISION READ, CONSIDERED AND PASSED, THIS THE 26TH DAY OF MAY, 2015. Norberto Salinas, Mayor ATTEST: Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MISSION, TEXAS GRANTING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT TO KEEP A PORTABLE BUILDING FOR USE AS A SALES OFFICE, 1609 E. EXPRESSWAY 83, LOTS 3-6, MISSION PALMS PLAZA READ, CONSIDERED AND PASSED, THIS THE 26TH DAY OF MAY, 2015. Norberto Salinas, Mayor ATTEST: Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

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2015

DISTRICT CO-CHAMPIONS BI-DISTRICT CHAMPIONS AREA CHAMPIONS REGIONAL QUARTER FINAL CHAMPIONS

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Recognizing excellence in education

PROGRESS TIMES

Section B

Sharyland High School graduates to receive diplomas June 4

Carolyn Mendiola SHS Principal

graduates, their friends and family, honored guests, faculty and staff. Salutatorian Gabriel Arantes Gomide will give the

See SHS CEREMONY 3B

James D. Heath PHS Principal

emony, will welcome the graduates, their friends and family, honored guests, faculty and staff. Aimee Marie Rara will

See PHS CEREMONY 11B

Mission HS graduation set for McAllen Convention Center

By Dr. Filomena Leo or almost twelve years, others have been guiding you as you made choices. We salute you because you chose to stay in school to insure that you would be ready for this next step in life. Now, the time has come for you to make the choices, on your own, that are the wisest for you. This will happen as you move forward Dr. Filomena Leo SISD Interim Superintendent

Dr. Ricardo Lopez MCISD Superintendent

See LOPEZ 17B

Sharyland top three examples of well rounded students

Stanford University to study mechanical engineering – a field he believes offers the greatest potential to change

the world and help people across the globe. “Participating in volunteer clubs such as Leo Club

and National Honor Society has taught me essential les-

Valedictorian Christopher Koenig

Salutatorian Gabriel Gomide

Third Ranking Samantha Young

See SHS TOP 3 3B

Pioneer’s top students ready for next step in education

Hispanic Scholar, Advanced Placement Scholar and is an “A” honor roll student. Salutatorian Aimee Marie

Rara plans to attend the University of Texas at Austin and major in biology. She hopes to enter medical school and

become a physician in pediatrics. The daughter of Fidel

Valedictorian Michael Ramirez

Salutatorian Aimee Rara

Third Ranking Benjamin Ho-Shing

See PHS TOP 3 11B

Veterans Memorial’s top three have big dreams for future

L Edilberto Flores MHS Principal

will be given by Jasmin Vega, followed by the valedictory address by Luis Angel Gonzalez. Ricardo López, superin-

See MHS CEREMONY 17B

Veterans Memorial HS ceremony to be held on June 6

Leo: Take charge of your life MCISD setting new records

See LEO 3B

Pioneer’s first graduates to walk the stage

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ever, he said he is looking forward to starting something new. His advice for next year’s seniors is to not

take things too seriously. Henry Davis III is this year’s salutatorian at Veterans Memorial High School.

He plans to attend Notre Dame University this fall

Valedictorian Lee Sanchez

Salutatorian Henry Davis III

Third Ranking Judith Haro

See VMHS TOP 3 24B

MHS graduates ready for University of Texas, Texas A&M

op students at Mission High School all agree the key to staying ahead is working hard

and staying focused, even through the summer months. Luis Angel Gonzalez is the Mission High School

Class of 2015 valedictorian. He is the son of Cesar and Hilda Gonzalez. Gonzalez plans to attend

Texas A&M-College Station this fall. He plans on major-

Valedictorian Luis Gonzalez

Salutatorian Jasmin Vega

Third Ranking Violeta Rivera

Third Ranking Natalie Stubbs

See MHS TOP 3 17B

Angelina V. Garcia VMHS Principal

There will be three addresses during the program. The first will be by Ricardo López, superintendent of schools. The salutatory ad-

See VMHS CEREMONY 24B

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Two Sharyland High School seniors named National Merit finalists

C Sharyland ISD Board of Trustees FRONT ROW: Dr. Noel O. Garza, President; Filomena Leo, SISD Interim Superintendent; Ricky Longoria, Vice-President. BACK ROW: Fernando Ramirez, Member; Dr. Noe Oliveira, Secretary; Eddie Montalvo, Member; Rolando Peña, Member; Julio Cerda, Assistant Secretary.

Sharyland High School FFA Welders Participate at Rio Grande Valley District FFA Welding Contest

haryland High School FFA welding students recently had the opportunity to put their skills to the test at the Rio Grande Valley District FFA Welding Contest held at South Texas College. The Senior Welding Division team earned 2nd place and were 4 points away from first place. Members of the Senior Welding team are: Marcelo Martinez,

Ismael Garcia, Jose Adame and Eddie Morales. Jose Adame was tied for high point individual as he fell short after a weld off tiebreaker. He received a nice welding helmet provided by welding sponsors. Junior welding division team earned 8th place. Members of the Junior Welding team are: Victoria Martinez, Abby Pulido and

Kassandra Valdez. Students competed against school districts such as Donna, Mission and Mission Veterans Memorial who have a full year STC welding articulated programs. Sharyland High School teaches students to weld as well as how to fabricate using different types of technologies and materials such as stainless, wood and

aluminum. “Students practiced during and after school. They really put their hearts and minds into it and performed well at the contest. I feel that we are leading our students in the right direction by incorporating all aspects of fabrication technologies,” stated Brad Wood, agricultural science teacher.

hristopher Allen Koenig and Samantha Nicole Young, both seniors at Sharyland High School, have recently been selected as finalists for the National Merit Scholarship organization. They were chosen out of over a million high school seniors all over the country to be two of 15,000 students given finalist status. The original selection of semifinalists for the award was based upon PSAT scores. Approximately 1.5 million high school juniors take the PSAT every year. The finalist selection was decided by an application process, which the students completed in early October. The students were informed of their finalist standing at the end of February.

Chris, the son of Darvin and Sandra Koenig, and Sam, the daughter of Daryl and Alisa Young, are highly involved students and have been good friends since eighth grade, when they met through the chess team. They both enjoy participating in theatre productions at the high school, and they recently helped co-direct a rock musical version of Alice in Wonderland, which they also acted in. Both Sam and Chris are involved in UIL, National Honor Society, Student Council, Masterminds, and FCCLA. They would like to thank their peers, the administration, and especially the teachers of Sharyland High School for their unfailing support in all of their endeavors.

SHS wins UIL academic district Title, 2 Advance to state

ongratulations to the UIL academic students and coaches for participating at the academics district meet and earning the district champion title. On March 27 and 28, 66 students participated and 21 competed at the Regional Level in San Antonio and two students advanced to the state level. Josh Jones earned second place in number sense and advanced to state. Hean Hui Lee earned third place in computer applications and advanced to state. District Results: Computer science team: first place team Ruben Puga - individual computer science third place Robert Chapa - advancing with the computer science team Jesus Eduardo Reyna -

Hean Hui Lee places third in computer applications and Josh Jones places second number sense.

Amanda Gonzalez, Anthony Hange, Marco Cruz, Carlos Graybill, and Jorge Cisneros. Not pictured: Eric Cancino and Emily Garza. Courtesy photo

SHS grads finish school with college degrees

S advancing with the computer science team Roberto Rivas - advanc-

ing with the computer science team. Journalism: first place

team Veronica Meza - Feature Writing 2nd place Sheena Ondoy - Headline Writing 3rd Place and News Writing 4th Place Alternate Sharon Olguin - Headline Writing 4th Place Alternate, Valeria Ramos - Editorial Writing 1st Place Christopher Koenig Ready Writing 1st Place Yvette Moreno - Ready Writing 2nd Place and Literary Criticism 4th Place Alternate (Advancing with Team) Literary criticism: first place team Diana Maldonado - literary criticism first place Amanda Martinez - advancing with literary criticism team Jennifer Carillo - advancing with literary criticism team Computer applications: second place team Hean Hui Lee - computer science first place Inyoung Choi - computer science second place Number sense: second place team Josh Jones - number sense second place Damian Goavette - social studies third place Edna Manriquez - LD debate second place Allison Alvarado - LD debate third place Celeste Strange - LD debate fourth place

even Sharyland High School seniors graduated with an associate or certificate degree from South Texas College. Amanda Gonzalez and Marco Cruz earned Associates in Science-Biology. Anthony Hange earned an Associate’s in Science-Computer Science. Eric Cancino and Carlos Graybill earned Associates in Science-Engineering. Jorge Cisneros re-

ceived a Certificate-Computer Support Specialist. Emily Garza earned an Associate’s in Arts-Criminal Justice. They worked for the last two years towards this degree/ certificate. “What an amazing accomplishment to graduate from college, and then a few short weeks later, graduate from high school,” SHS Counselor Delilah Rodriguez said.

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Sharyland High School Class Officers TOP: Christopher Allen Koenig-Vice-President, Kyle Kahlenberg- Treasurer, BOTTOM: Samantha Nicole Young-Class Rep., Helen Leiloni Chavez-Class Rep.,Samantha Lauren Pena-President., Monica Longoria-Secretary, Samantha Lauren PenaPresident.

May 29, 2015

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Mariachi group places in top ten at state competition

ariachi Nuevo Cascabel earned sixth place at the State Mariachi Competition in February. This competition was founded by The Texas Association of Mariachi Educators (TAME) and the Mexican American School Board members Association

(MASBA). Nuevo Cascabel had previously earned a Division 1 rating at MASBA (Mexican American School Board Association) Area Competition in Edinburg High School. Juan Gilberto Vázquez is the Mariachi Director at SHS.

Sharyland High School FCCLA is ‘Anchord in Success!’

embers of Sharyland FCCLA Chapter had the opportunity to participate in the Texas FCCLA State Leadership Conference in Corpus Christi, TX from April 8-11, 2015. The Sharyland High School FCCLA Chapter members who attended were part of the 3,800 delegates who carried out this year’s theme of “FCCLA: Anchored in Success”. The Sharyland chapter had quite a successful conference. Results include: 2 Gold, 4 Silver, and 1 Bronze Medals on the Family and Consumer Science Assessments (FCSA’s) which are skill exams; Students Taking Action for Recognition (STAR events)

LEO

to shape your future, your destiny. And it will happen in a very natural way. As Winnie the Pooh advises, “You can’t stay in your corner of the Forest waiting for others to come to you. You have to go to them sometimes”. Now is that time for you and your classmates to go forward and to take charge of the events of your life. Whatever path you have chosen, you will now take complete charge of your life. It is our hope that the years spent in our schools have prepared you sufficiently for what lies ahead. We are assured that as a graduate of our school system, you were provided opportunities to succeed, and perhaps sometimes to fail at learning. But, even in the failures we

SHS

sons about looking beyond myself and learning to focus on others,” Koenig said. “This focus has shaped my mindset and helped me become more of an outward oriented person, paying attention to the needs and emotions of others. It is because of this new mindset that I seek to study my intended major of mechanical engineering…” Salutatorian Gabriel Gomide will be attending Rice University to major in biomedical engineering on a pre-med track. “Volunteering at a hospital influenced me the most,” Gomide said. “The exposure to a professional environment showed me what it truly takes to succeed, but the act of volunteering itself showed me the positive effects of generosity.” Gomide said his elective course were instrumental in helping him define his career choice. “Health science, medical terminology, pathophysiology -- all of these led to my decision to follow a path in medicine,” he said. Third highest-ranking student Samantha Young will be attending Abilene Christian University to study environmental science with focus on politics and public policy. “Volunteering has allowed me to plug into my local community and participate in making it a better place,” Young said. In addition to her volunteer participation, Young’s

SHS CEREMONY

salutatory address, followed by the valedictory address by Valedictorian Christopher Allen Koenig. Senior Class President, Samantha Lauren Peña will then address the graduating class, reflecting on her and her peer’s experiences of the past four years. After Interim Superintendent Dr. Filomena Leo certifies all the graduates, School Board President Dr. Noel O. Garza will present the diplomas to the graduating stu-

which are the competitive events were - Career Investigation, 6th place, Jennifer De La Fuente; Fashion Design, 4th place, Valeria Quiroga; Parliamentary Procedure, 1st place and National Qualifiers, John Cortinas, Jesus Delgado, Nahir Kalaf, Chris Koenig, Julia Lucas, Lauren Rosa, and Samantha Young. Alexis Montemayor helped lead the conference as the 2014-2015 State Vice-President of Achievement. Desiree Balderas served as a room consultant in gaining experience to be the 2015-2016 Region V Vice-President of Finance. Advisors for the chapter are Mary Jo Brisnahan, Amanda Lucero, and Alexandra Pena. from pg 1B

expect that there were staff members who helped you learn that failures are life lessons leading to personal growth. On your continuing journey, you will discover many realities about how to shape your life. You will come to realize that there are no smooth paths. The challenges and the bumps on the road are there to make us each stronger. You will learn that true friends help to make the mistakes easier to accept. You must know as well that family members are the one true constant in life. As you venture forward and form new relationships remember to rely on the personal skills you strengthened while at Sharyland ISD. from pg 1B

experience in the classroom has led her to focus on a career as an environmental lawyer. “Taking AP environmental science helped me realize my passion for preserving our earth’s natural resources,” Young said. “It opened my eyes to the exploitation of environments that is occurring all over the world.” Koenig, Gomide and Young also credit their involvement is extracurricular activities in helping them make high school an enjoyable experience. “By far the most rewarding part of these activities was getting to know some of the smartest, kindest, and funniest people I had the incredible blessing of knowing in high school,” Koenig said. Working with people who share your same interest and goals makes even the toughest job seem doable. “Competitive extracurricular activities are definitely an important part of high school,” Gomide said. “You learn together, you compete together and you end up experiencing all of high school together.” While fear sometimes gets in the way of trying new things, Koenig advised students not to be afraid of failure. “Challenge yourself in that AP class,” Koenig said. “Try that new sport. Perform on that stage. And throughout it all don’t be discouraged if, and when, you fail sometimes.” from pg 1B

dents. The ceremony will end with the signing of the Sharyland Alma Mater, which will be led by honor students Ana Laura Cantu, Dong Geon Lee, Marco Antonio Sanchez, Sheena Ericka Ondoy, Omar Cisneros and Carlos Graybill. Graduates of the Sharyland Class of 2015 will then proceed out of the arena as the band plays “Pomp and Circumstance.”

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Pioneer High makes history

n the fall of 2014, the doors of Pioneer High School opened to students. The more than $55 million campus covers 345,000 square feet and includes more than 80 classrooms, which include science and computer labs, resource rooms and a fine arts practice space. At a ribbon cutting ceremony in September, contractors were still putting the final touches on the buildings, but students already had made the campus their own. Congressman Ruben Hinojosa and State Reps. Bobby Guerra and Oscar Longoria each told a different tale about their experience with Sharyland and offered words of wisdom for the first students to walk the Diamondback halls. “You guys need to separate yourselves from the rest of the area and show how much love and passion you have for this high school because it’s the same love and passion that the board had for you guys to make this institution,” Longoria said. “A lot of people are going to put funds into this, but it’s an investment in the community for all you guys.” Last year Sharyland High School had 3,300 students and 775 graduates compared to the three graduates of 1921. Heath explained that various programs from Pioneer had a hand in some of the decisions that make up the “look and feel of the school.” The senior advisor council, 10 seniors chosen by the staff and students, decided the colors and design of the letter jacket, yearbook name and color and style of the graduation announcements, senior rings and gowns. The council also helped write the lyrics to the alma mater and fight song. The senior members of the Diamondback dance team came up with the hand signal used when the fight song is played, and the head band director and staff found someone to write the score for the fight song. “Already we’re having a great start to the year,” Heath said. “It’s unheard of for a new school to be this successful right away. I think we’re breaking the mold.”

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Pioneer racks up awards Pioneer High School FFA students earned 24 banners and had seven high-point individuals. They were recently honored at the RGV District FFA Banquet.

Pioneer High School First Ever Homecoming Queen Autumn Chandler

Senior Class Officers President: Lizette Chapa, Vice President: Zack Ramon, Senior Representatives: Jazmine Montoya, Michael Ramirez, Jr.

PHS TOP 3

and Tess Rara was a Doctors Hospital at Renaissance VolunTEEN. Rara participated in UIL, LEO club, HOSA, band, tennis and is a member of the Holy Spirit Catholic Church Choir. She is a Texas Scholar, National Student Leadership Conference Scholar, HOSA area qualifier, UIL regional qualifier, regional tennis qualifier and has multiple honors and awards for music and band. Benjamin Ho-Shing ranked third in his class and is the son of Robert and Xochitl Ho-Shing. After graduation he plans to attend the University of Texas - Rio Grande Valley where he wants to double major in

PHS CEREMONY

give the salutatory address, followed by the valedictory address by Michael Adam Ramirez, Jr. Senior Class President Lizette R. Chapa will then address the graduating class, reflecting on her and her peer’s experiences of the past four years. Senior Advisory Council member Zachary T. Ramon will then reflect on the opening of Pioneer High School. After Interim Superintendent Dr. Filomena Leo certifies all the graduates, School Board President Ricky Lon-

from pg 1B

chemistry and music performance and minor in biology. He wants to attend Baylor College of Medicine for graduate school and complete residency at Boston Teaching Hospital or Johns Hopkins Teaching Hospital in Neonatology. Ho-Shing was an RGV LEAD Ambassador, he participated in UIL, volunteered and job shadowed at Doctors Hospital at Renaissance. He also did clinical rotations at Mission Regional Hospital. Ho-Shing earned the Barbara James Service Award, is HOSA National Qualifier in Health Care issues and has multiple honors for his vocal and pianistic abilities. from pg 1B

goria will present the diplomas to the graduating students. The ceremony will end with the singing of the Sharyland Pioneer Alma Mater, which will be led by students Luis Gonzalez, Ashley Gonzalez, Klaudia Cedillo, Karla Acuña, Teah Barrientes, Autumn Chandler, Nora Monie and Jazmine Montoya. Graduates of the Sharyland Pioneer Class of 2015 will then proceed out of the arena as Diamondback band plays “Pomp and Circumstance.”

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MHS scholarship list

MHS students earn AP Scholar Awards

total of six students at Mission High School (MHS) have earned AP Scholar Awards in recognition of their exceptional achievement on AP (Advanced Placement) exams. The College Board’s Advanced Placement Program provides motivated and academically prepared student with the opportunity to

take rigorous, college-level courses while still in high school, and to earn college credit, advanced placement, or both for successful performance on the AP exams. The College Board recognizes several levels of achievement based on students’ performances on AP exams. Students qualify for the AP Scholar Award designa-

tion by completing three or more AP exams with scores of 3 or higher. The AP Scholars from the Class of 2014 are: John Diaz and Miguel Reyna-Bravo. The current MHS seniors who have earned the AP Scholar Award are (pictured left to right): Carolina Briones, Violeta Rivera, Jasmin Vega, Eri Longoria.

MHS yearbook wins prize for cover design

he 2014 Mission High School (MHS) yearbook, The Eagle, has won first prize for cover design in the 2014 national yearbook contest by Entourage Yearbooks. In addition to winning the cover design award, the 2014 edition of The Eagle also earned honorable mentions for high school theme and for page design. The Eagle chose to use a theme of School Pride. Their accomplishments are included on the Entourage Yearbooks contest webpage, www.entrourageyearbooks.

com/YearbookContest.asp. Pictured is the cover de-

sign of the 2014 edition of The Eagle yearbook.

MHS first in the state to offer a dual enrollment Mexican-American Studies course

ou would never know it by the unassuming, one-sentence course description in the curriculum bulletin for this school year, but the Dual-Enrollment Mexican-American Studies class started this year at Mission High School (MHS) is actually making some history of its own. It is the first of its kind in the state of Texas. Recent changes by the state has resulted in the creation of some elective special topics courses like Mexican-American Studies, which a handful of districts in the state have done. However, the course offered for the first time at Mission High School this year has taken it a little more seriously and created a dual enrollment course through the growing partnership with South Texas College (STC). This makes it not only a high school credit class, but also a college credit course, taught by a college professor, at a college level. “I wanted to take it to learn my history, where I came from,” said senior Claire Lopez. “I also thought it would help me understand more of what being in a college class would be like.”

STC professor, Dr. Trinidad Gonzales said this class covers history from pre-contact and Native American history to the U.S. civil war. “It is a shift from an Eastern centered narrative concerning the development of the United States to a southwest or south-southwest narrative concerning development of the US.” Gonzales said people tend to forget how extensive the Spanish Empire was and its significance in the development of the United States. “We are trying to develop a more complex understanding of the development of the US,” he said. He also indicated that while the class is led by what the Spanish are doing their relationships to the English as colonial powers developed, they don’t ignore other influences through the French and Dutch. Kobe Marquez, an MHS student taking the class admits he figured that it would be an easy class since it is an elective course. He also admits he was wrong in that assumption, but feels this class is just as important as any other History class he has taken.

“This class has opened my eyes and made me realize that Mexican-American history is an important part of U.S. History,” Marquez said. “I find myself more interested in learning more. “ “I think this is relevant to anyone living in the United States, regardless of their race or ethnic background,” said course teacher, Victoria Rojas. “Demographics are changing very quickly. Being culturally competent is important for any individual in the business realm, or in college. In any context, this is going to be important.” Rojas also said the Dual-Enrollment Mexican-American Studies class also brings something very culturally relevant to the students. “It is amazing,” said MHS student Sarah Lopez. “Because not only do we get to make history but we also are enhancing our education by learning where we came from and the way our culture is tied to history.” Pictured are the students and teachers of the Mexican-American Studies course at Mission High School during a recent group discussion and lecture.

he following list of scholarships for Mission High School graduates represents only those scholarships turned in to the campus staff as of May 18. Many scholarships are not handed out until after this date and therefore are not represented on this list. Alarcon, Miriam–2015 Multicultural Leader Scholarship (Western Michigan University), $16,000; AMET–Association for Migrant Education of Texas Scholarship, $1,000; Western Michigan University College Assistance Migrant Program Scholarship, $56,000. Alonzo, Xavier H.–Mission Texas Classroom Teachers Association Scholarship, $500. Balderas, Esai–St. Mary's University Chaminade Scholarship, $40,000. Bennett, Ashley–2016 University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Scholars, $20,000; St. Mary's University Bordeaux Scholarship, $48,000; University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Excellence Scholarship, $1,000. Blanco, Karen–Esteban Salinas Elementary Scholarship, $200. Briones, Angelica–Aurora Saenz New York Life Insurance Scholarship, $1,000. Briones, Carolina–St. Mary's University Bordeaux Scholarship, $48,000; University of Texas at Austin Presidential Achievement Scholarship, $20,000. Calderon, Jose–2016 University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Scholars, $20,000; AMJH Academic Award Scholarship, $250; St. Mary's University Madeleine Scholarship, $56,000; Jose Luis Flores Memorial Scholarship, $250; Jose Luis Flores Memorial Scholarship, $250. Cantu, Osvaldo–St. Mary's University Chaminade Scholarship, $40,000. Cavazos, Amanda–Mission Fastpitch Booster Club Scholarship, $200. Cerda, April–Hidalgo County 4-H Foundation Scholarship, $2,000; Mission FFA Alumni Scholarship, $1,000; Sharyland 4-H Club Scholarship, $700. Cerda, Milton–MHS STARS Club Scholarship, $250. Coronado, Adan–St. Mary's University Chaminade Scholarship, $40,000. Cuellar, Jesus–KWJH Honor Students Scholarship, $300; KWJH PTO Scholarship, $500; LeTourneau University; Mission Fastpitch Booster Club Scholarship, $200; Rio Grande Valley Basketball Coaches Association; $300; St. Mary's University Bordeaux Scholarship; $48,000; University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Excellence Scholarship, $500. Cuellar, Nereida–St. Mary's University Bordeaux Scholarship, $48,000; University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Excellence Scholarship, $1,000. Duberney, Jaime–Texas A & M University Kingsville Presidential Scholarship, $18,000; University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Excellence Scholarship, $1,000. Enriques, Jose–University Leadership Network Scholarship, $20,000. Escobedo, Andres–St. Mary's University Bordeaux Scholarship, $48,000. Esquivel, Joseph–St. Mary's University Chaminade Scholarship, $40,000. Flores, Alexis–St. Mary's University Chaminade Scholarship, $40,000. Flores, Aminta Michelle– Lilia De La Garza Flores Memorial Scholarship, $1,000; University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Excellence Scholarship, $1,000. Flores, Brandon–KWJH Techno Club Scholarship, $250. Flores, Michelle–AMJH Girls Athletics Scholarship, $250. Galicia, Maria–KWJH Honor Students Scholarship, $300. Garcia, Edelmiro–St.

Mary's University Bordeaux Scholarship, $48,000. Garcia, Jose–KWJH Honor Students Scholarship, $300; St. Mary's University Bordeaux Scholarship, $48,000. Garcia, Oscar–St. Mary's University Chaminade Scholarship, $40,000. Garza, Amanda–KWJH Girls Athletics Scholarship, $250; Our Lady of the Lake University Academic Scholarship, $28,000. Gonzalez, Carolina– KWJH Honor Students Scholarship, $300. Gonzalez, Christian–St. Mary's University Madeleine Scholarship, $56,000; St. Mary's University Chaminade Scholarship, $40,000. Gonzalez, Janeth–AMJH Girls Athletics Scholarship, $250; St. Mary's University Madeleine Scholarship, $56,000; University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Excellence Scholarship, $1,000. Gonzalez, Luis–AMJH Boys Athletics Scholarship, $250; St. Mary's University Madeleine Scholarship, $56,000; Gateway Scholarship, $3,000. Gonzalez, Vanessa–St. Mary's University Bordeaux Scholarship, $48,000. Guerra, Krystal—Mission Volleyball Booster Club Scholarship, $200; Mission Fastpitch Booster Club Scholarship, $200. Hernandez, Adela–St. Mary's University Chaminade Scholarship, $40,000; University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Excellence Scholarship, $1,000. Hernandez, Amanda– Mission Fastpitch Booster Club Scholarship, $800. Hernandez, Jovanna–Neumont University Achievement Scholarship, $12,000. Huang, Dan–Mission High School National Honor Society, $250; St. Mary's University Bordeaux Scholarship, $48,000; University Leadership Network Scholarship, $20,000. Leal, Anthony–KWJH Honor Students Scholarship, $300. Longoria, Eri–Dell Scholars, $20,000; 2016 University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Scholars, $20,000; University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Excellence Scholarship, $1,000. Longoria, Eric–St. Mary's University Chaminade Scholarship, $40,000. Lopez, Alexandra–Mission Regional Medical Center, $1,000. Lopez, Sarah–St. Mary's University Bordeaux Scholarship, $48,000. Martinez, Sandy–KWJH Girls Athletics Scholarship, $250. Nevarez, Javier–KWJH Honor Students Scholarship, $300; St. Mary's University Chaminade Scholarship, $40,000; University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Excellence Scholarship, $500. Ojeda, Brittany–St. Mary's University Chaminade Scholarship, $40,000; University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Excellence Scholarship, $1,000. Perez, Daniela–KWJH Honor Students Scholarship, $300; Rio Grande Valley Basketball Coaches Association, $300. Pina, Onyx–United States Marine Corps G.I. Bill, $85,000. Pruneda, Ricardo–Jose Luis Flores Memorial Scholarship, $250. Puente, Alexia–University of Texas at Austin Longhorn-Pre-College Academy Scholarship, $20,000; University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Scholars Scholarship, $20,000; University of Texas San Antonio Distinguished Presidential Scholarship, $12,000; Texas A & M Regents Scholars Scholarship, $20,000; Burger King Scholars Scholarship, $1,000. Reta Cordoba, Aylin– Mission Regional Medical Center, $1,000; St. Mary's University Bordeaux Scholarship, $48,000; University of Texas Rio Grande Val-

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ley Excellence Scholarship, $500. Rivas, Ruby–KWJH Girls Athletics Scholarship, $250; KWJH Honor Students Scholarship, $300. Rivera, Violeta–AMJH Academic Award Scholarship, $250; Bert Lozano Memorial Scholarship, $1,000; St. Mary's University Madeleine Scholarship, $56,000. Rocha, Karyme–Mission Volleyball Booster Club Scholarship, $250. Rodriguez, Maricella–KWJH Honor Students Scholarship, $300. Rodriguez, Thomas–St. Mary's University Chaminade Scholarship, $40,000. Ruiz, Daisy–Mission Volleyball Booster Club Scholarship, $250. Saenz, Joe–AMJH National Junior Honor Society Scholarship, $250. Salinas, Melissa–AMJH National Junior Honor Society Scholarship, $250; Mission High School Band Booster Scholarship, $500; St. John's University Academic Promise Scholarship, $44,000; St. John's University Hugh Carey Scholarship, $12,000; St. Mary's University Chaminade Scholarship, $40,000; University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Excellence Scholarship, $1,000. Sandoval, Brandon–University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Excellence Scholarship, $1,000. Solis, Nicholas Alexander–18th Annual Future Educators Scholarship, $500. Stubbs, Natalie–Dora Lopez Scholarship, $500; Homer Fund Orange Scholars Scholarship, $2,500; KWJH Honor Students Scholarship, $300; KWJH PTO Scholarship, $500; Mission Fastpitch Booster Club Scholarship, $400; St. Mary's University Bordeaux Scholarship, $48,000; St. Mary's University Presidential Scholarship, $64,000; 2016 University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Scholars, $20,000; JRG (Jorge Rolando Gutierrez) Foundation Scholarship, $750; Texas A & M Century Scholar Award, $20,000; University of Texas Leadership Scholarship, $20,000. Suarez, Efren–2016 University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Scholars, $20,000; Texas A & M College Station Presidential Scholarship, $20,000; Texas A & M Kingsville Presidential Scholarship, $22,000. Tamez, Steven–A. R. Sanchez Memorial/IBC Bank Scholarship, $1,000; KWJH Boys Athletics Scholarship; $300; KWJH Honor Students Scholarship, $300; KWJH PTO Scholarship, $500; Mission Fastpitch Booster Club Scholarship, $200; Soaring Eagles Booster Club, $500; St. Edward's University President's Merit Award, $18,000; St. Mary's University Bordeaux Scholarship, $48,000; University of Texas at Austin Presidential Achievement Scholarship, $20,000. Tanguma, Jesus Eduardo–Soaring Eagles Booster Club, $500; St. Mary's University Bordeaux Scholarship, $48,000; University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Excellence Scholarship, $500. Trejo, Abraham–St. Mary's University Chaminade Scholarship, $40,000. Vasquez Jr., Mario–St. John of the Fields Knights of Columbus Scholarship, $500. Vega, Jasmin–Gateway Scholarship, $3,000; KWJH Honor Student Scholarship, $300; KWJH Student Council Scholarship, $250; Mission High School National Honor Society, $250; St. Mary's University Madeleine Scholarship, $56,000; University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Excellence Scholarship, $500. Veliz, Fabian–St. Mary's University Chaminade Scholarship, $40,000. Veliz, Robert–KWJH Boys Athletics Scholarship, $350; Soaring Eagles Booster Club, $500.

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Mission CISD honors the top students in the classes of 2015

he Mission Consolidated Independent School District Board of Trustees hosted its annual Mission Academic Excellence Awards banquet. This banquet and award honors the top five percent of the senior classes from Mission High School and Veterans Memorial High School. Each student is recognized individually by the members of the Board of Trustees. In addition to honoring the top seniors, each student honoree invites an educator who has been important in

LOPEZ

ic life. This commencement ceremony carries great significance since we will be celebrating our first early college graduates, and setting new records for the largest number of students receiving college certifications. We are also celebrating our National Merit and Hispanic Merit Scholars. The class of 2015 has distinguished itself at the local, state, and national levels as academic/athletic/fine art competitors – you are a sea of future leaders who will make a profound difference in our community. Your preparedness for college, careers, and life is sound and will allow you to thrive against the competition. Although you have the foundation to succeed in every endeavor, I want to share words of advice to keep you on the right path and to real-

MHS TOP 3

ing in electrical engineering and possibly computer engineering. Gonzalez said he is hoping to stay academically active this summer so when classes start this fall, he is mentally prepared. He is hoping for an internship or job to complete his summer activities. Gonzalez’a senior year has been busy with National Honor Society, UIL, FBLA, Robotics. Gonzalez said he knows that, after graduation, he is going to miss the regular face-to-face interactions with friends at school and many of his teachers. In addition to his studies this fall, he said he is also looking forward to adjusting to living life more on his own, or as many adults put it, “in the real world.” Gonzalez’s advice for next year’s senior class is to not procrastinate. He said seniors should get started as early as possible on projects and items needed for college and scholarship applications. He also said they should never give up and really try to avoid senioritis. This year’s Mission High School salutatorian is Jasmin Vega. Her senior year has been filled with academics, UIL, FBLA, BPA, TAFE, and National Honor Society. Vega said she plans on spending her summer with coursework at UTPA to bridge over to UT-Austin this fall. She plans to study biology and dentistry. Vega said she is really going to miss many of her teachers at Mission High School who have been a huge positive influence in her life. She indicated she was also going to miss seeing so many of her friends. Staying up late to finish homework is some-

their lives to honor as well. The Mission Academic Excellence Award recipients from Mission High School are: Ashley Marie Bennett, Carolina Briones, Jesus Rene Cuellar, Aminta Michelle Flores, Jose Enrique Garcia, Carolina Gonzalez, Christian Herbert Gonzalez, Janeth Gonzalez, Luis Angel Gonzalez, Melannie Azeneth Guajardo, Adela Teresa Hernandez, Dan Ying Huang, Eri Ramon Longoria, Aylin Reta Cordoba, Violeta Lizette Rivera, Melissa Yvette Salinas, Natalie Rose Stubbs,

Steven Tamez, Jasmin Vega, Jennifer Venegas. The Mission Academic Excellence Award recipients from Veterans Memorial High School are: James Caleb Adkins, Emily Dawn Cantu, Micaela Corina Cantu, Alberto Cardenas, Jose Ruben Cavazos, Darius Vicente Rothelridge Davis, Henry Davis III, Ricardo Gabriel De La Garza, Valeria De Leon, Karina Judith Gamboa, Andrea Lamar Garcia, Cody Evan Grissom, Judith Maria Haro, Ana Karen Martinez, Adriana Martinez

ize your every dream. The first is to follow your passion. When you love what you do, life is significantly more enjoyable. You wake up energized and inspired and filled with contagious energy that inspires others. There is nothing more satisfying than living your dream. The second truth is to always be yourself. There is only one you and you must be comfortable in your own skin. You have special gifts and talents that the world will see – don’t worry about what others think or say. Their doubts may be their way of keeping your greatness from shining through. The only way to shine is by being yourself and believing in the gifts you have. Finally, always do what is right and ethical. It is easy to

get trapped by peer pressure, especially when adults are no longer closely monitoring your behavior. Adulthood carries freedom but with that freedom comes more responsibility. Use mature decision making in all your career and life choices, and when in doubt- we will be here for you. On behalf of the Mission CISD Board of Trustees and over 2,000 education employees, WE SALUTE the graduating class of 2015. We are proud of your past accomplishments and look forward to relishing in your future ones. Congratulations, and best wishes on your bright future. Dr. Ricardo López Proud Superintendent of Schools Mission Consolidated Independent School District

thing Vega said she was not going to miss over the summer. Vega said she is really looking forward to meeting new people at college and expanding her horizons. Like her classmate, Gonzalez, Vega said seniors next year need to work on avoiding the urge to procrastinate, especially when apply for scholarships. Vega is the daughter of Andrea Vega. This year, Mission High School has two students tied for the third-ranking student position: Violeta Lizette Rivera and Natalie Rose Stubbs. Violeta Rivera is the daughter of Ramon and Olga Rivera. Her senior year has been filled with activities that included National Honor Society, Student Council, FBLA, BPA, and church activities. She plans to attend UT-Austin this fall and major in international affairs and political science. She sees herself pursuing a career as a diplomat or working for the CIA. Rivera is waiting to hear back on an application for a summer CIA internship. When she leaves for Austin, Rivera said she knows she is really going to miss her family and friends, but also the family of Mission High School teachers who care. Once in college, Rivera said she is looking forward to getting involved in student government and groups to help her voice be heard. Rivera suggests next year’s seniors make a plan each month to help them get everything done on time and lessen the stresses of deadlines. Natalie Rose Stubbs is the daughter of Steven and Re-

becca Stubbs. In addition to her studies, her senior year has included: tennis team, softball, BPA, National Honor Society. Stubbs hopes to land a job during the summer to help save some money for college expenses and to spend time with family. This fall, she will leave for College Station to attend Texas A&M. Stubbs plans to major in Zoology and continue on to veterinary school. She said that at the beginning of May it started to hit her that she will really miss her family and friends when she leaves the Rio Grande Valley. However, Stubbs said she was looking forward to living somewhere with more diversity in its people and the growing independence that comes during college. Her advice to next year’s seniors is to take advantage of the time they have and to stay motivated and focused.

Quintanilla, Ted Rodriguez III, Michelle Savannah Salinas, Lee Jacob Sanchez, Sabrina Divine Solis, Maria Fernanda Torres, Ina Valeria

Trejo, Audrey Anne Villarreal. The guest speaker for the event was DeAndra Ransom. She is a 2005 Mission High

School graduate and recipient of this award. Ransom is currently a physician assistant for the University Health System in San Antonio.

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MHS CEREMONY from pg 1B

tendent of schools, will provide the official certification of graduates and an address to the graduates. The members of the Class of 2015 will be awarded their diplomas by the Mission Consolidated Independent School District Board of Trustees. A benediction will be provided by Natalie Rose Stubbs. The MHS “Alma Mater” will be led by Janeth Gonzalez. The tassel ceremony will be led by Hayley MichelleGuerra. The senior song selection will be performed by Melannie Azeneth Guajardo. The graduates will depart to “War March of the Priest.”

Mission CISD Board of Trustees Pictured, from left to right, front row: Roy Vela, member; Petra B. Ramirez, member; Ricardo López, superintendent; Veronica R. Mendoza; back row: Minnie R. Rodgers, member; Patricia O’Caña-Olivarez, president; Patty Rivera, vice president; J.C. Avila, secretary.

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VMHS senior named semifinalist in 2015 VMHS scholarship list National Merit Scholarship Program T

eterans Memorial High School senior Darius Davis has been named as a semifinalist in the 2015 National Merit Scholarship Program. Davis now has an opportunity to continue in the competition for some 7,600 National Merit Scholarships worth about $33 million that will be offered next spring. To be considered for a Merit Scholarship award, Semifinalists must fulfill several requirements to advance to the finalist level of the competition. About 90 percent of the semifinalists are expected to attain finalist standing, and more than half of the finalists will win a National Merit Scholarship, earning the Merit Scholar title. The announcement of the National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists was made by officials of the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. This is a not-for-profit organization that operates without government assistance, and was established in 1955 specifically to conduct the annual National Merit

Scholarship Program. Scholarships are underwritten by NMSC with its own funds and by approximately 440 business organizations and higher education institutions that share NMSC’s goals of honoring the nation’s scholastic champions and encouraging the pursuit of academic excellence. About 1.4 million juniors in more than 22,000 high schools entered the 2015 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the 2014 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualify-

ing Test (PSAT/NMSQT), which served as an initial screen of program entrants. The nationwide pool of semifinalists, representing less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors, includes the highest scoring entrants in each state. The number of semifinalists in a state is proportional to the state’s percentage of the national total of graduating seniors. To become a finalist, the semifinalist and his or her high school must submit a detailed scholarship application, in which they provide information about the semifinalist’s academic record, participation in school and community activities, demonstrated leadership abilities, employment, and honors and awards received. A semifinalist must have an outstanding academic record throughout high school, be endorsed and recommended by a high school official, write an essay, and earn SAT scores that confirm the student’s earlier performance on the qualifying test.

Pictured, from left to right: Lee Sanchez, Henry Davis, Judith Haro, Darius Davis. Not pictured is Noel Barsenas. Courtesy photo

VMHS students earn AP Scholar Awards

hirteen students at Veteran Memorial High School have earned AP Scholar Awards in recognition of their exceptional achievement on Advanced Placement exams. The College Board’s Advanced Placement Program provides motivated and academically prepared students with the opportunity to take rigorous, college-level courses while still in high school, and to earn college credit, advanced placement, or both for successful performance on the AP exams. The College Board recognizes several levels of achievement based on students’ performances on AP exams. One student qualified

for the National AP Scholar Award by earning an average score of at least 4 on all AP exams taken, and scores of 4 or higher on eight or more of the exams. Current senior, Darius Davis was named a National AP Scholar. Three students qualified for the AP Scholar with Distinction Award. This is granted to students who receive an average score of t least 3.5 on all AP exams taken, and scores of 3 or higher on five or more of the exams. The three students are: current VMHS seniors Darius Davis and Judith Haro, and Benjamin Garcia from the Class of 2014. Three students qualified for the AP Scholar with

Honor Award by receiving an average score of at least 3.25 on all AP exams taken, and scores of 3 or higher on four or more of the exams. Current senior, Lee Sanchez earned this designation. Members of the Class of 2014 who earned this honor are: Janessa Farias and Matthew Sparks. Seven students qualified for the AP Scholar Award by completing three or more AP exams with grades of 3 or higher. The AP Scholars in the current senior class are Noel Barsenas and Henry Davis. The AP Scholars from the Class of 2014 are: Alexandria Gonzalez, Jaquelyn Gonzalez, Alfredo Munoz, Joel Ocanas, Anyssa Vela.

VMHS students participate in national Mathematics competition

ission, Texas- The Mu Alpha Theta Mathematics Honor Society at Veterans Memorial High School (VMHS) participated in the 66th annual American Mathematics Contest (AMC) 12, and the 16th annual American Mathematics Contest 10. The students competed for local, regional, and national student and school awards. The contest, which covers high school Mathematics, is given in participating schools. Its purpose is to spur interest in Mathematics, and develop talent through the excitement of friendly competition at problem solving in at timed

format. Top scorers for AMC 12 at VMHS were Darius Davis, Hector Iglesias, and Ted Rodriguez. The top scores for the AMC 10 were earned by Andres Vazquez, Kimberly Garza, and Isaac Martinez. Darius Davis qualified for the American Invitational Mathematics Examination (AIME), which will take place on March 25, 2015. The contest tests are given across the country, Canada, and in many other schools abroad. Details concerning the AMC contests and programs are available online, www.maa. org/math-competitions. Pictured are the mem-

bers of the VMHS chapter of Mu Alpha Theta Mathematics Honor Society. On the from row are: Daniella Pena, Ramiro Ramirez, Ixta Obregon, Bryana Cantu, Gabriel Lozoya. On row two are: Maia Mendoza, Yulissa Garcia. On row three are: Emily Salinas, Kimberly Garza, Hendry Davis, C.J. Escobedo, Sarah Ocanas (sponsor). On the fourth row are: Tomas Garcia, Andres Vasquez, Lee Sanchez, Rene Olivarez, Hector Iglesias, Isaac Martinez. Not pictured are: Sandra Barba, Darius Davis, David de los Santos, Joaida Tornes, Mirna Rodriguez, Ted Rodriguez, Judith Haro.

he following list of scholarships for Veterans Memorial High School graduates represents only those scholarships turned in to the campus staff as of May 18. Many scholarships are not handed out until after this date and therefore are not represented on this list. Alaniz, Zoe Jeremy–Bob Treviño Insurance and Jeff Everitt and Associates Scholarship, $500. Alonso, Diego Enrique– Mission Lions Club Scholarship, $500. Barba, Albert Jonathan– Veterans Memorial FFA Alumni Association Scholarship, $900. Barrera, Erica Lizette– St. Mary’s University Bordeaux Scholarship, $48,000; Baylor University Provost’s Gold Scholarship, $34,000; Need-Based Baylor Scholarship, $7,750; St. Edward’s University Dean’s Achievement Scholarship, $60,000; St. Edward’s Grant, $507; Abilene Christian University A.B. Barret Award, $44,000; Knights of Columbus, $1,000. Bazaldua, Jaime Daniel– St. Mary’s University Madeleine Scholarship, $56,000. Becerra, Melissa–Bob Treviño Insurance and Jeff Everitt and Associates Scholarship, $500. Cantu, Emily Dawn–St. Mary’s University Madeleine Scholarship, $56,000; Bradley Espinoza Scholarship, $500; Junior Service League of Mission Scholarship, $500. Cantu, Micaela Corina–St. Mary’s University Presidential Scholarship, $64,000; Bradley Espinoza Scholarship, $300; Junior Service League of Mission Scholarship, $500; Texas Exes Hidalgo-Starr County Scholarship, $750. Cardenas, Alberto–St. Mary’s University Presidential Scholarship, $64,000; 2015 Rafael Cantu Jr. High National Honor Society Scholarship, $250; 2015 Alma Linda Ruiz Memorial Scholarship, $500. Castillo Cordova, Leslie–2016 UTRGV Scholars, $20,000. Castillo, Sidney Marie–2015 Tom Landry Scholarship, $500. Cavazos Jr., Jose Ruben– St. Mary’s University Madeleine Scholarship, $56,000; 2015 Tom Landry Scholarship, $500. Chapa, Alexis Briana– Amanda Longoria Memorial Scholarship, $500. Contreras, Vanessa–Houston Baptist University Legacy Scholarship, $52,000; St. Edward’s University Dean’s Achievement Scholarship, $60,000; University of the Incarnate Word Distinguished Scholar Award, $40,000; The King’s College Presidential Scholarship, $40,000. Cornejo, Misty Joanna–St. Mary’s University Bordeaux Scholarship, $48,000; Belhaven University Scholarship, $44,000; UTRGV Excellence Scholarship, $500; Patriot STARS Scholarship, $250; Stephens College Scholarship, $40,000; Richard’s Pharmacy Scholarship, $500. Cota, LeeAnn Marie–St. Mary’s University Bordeaux Scholarship, $48,000; Burger King Scholars, $1,000. Davis, Darius Vicente Rothelridge–Texas Math & Science Coaches Association Scholarship, $1,100; National Achievement Scholarship, $2,500. Davis III, Henry–St. Mary’s University Trustee Scholarship, $80,000; Texas A&M University Lechner Scholarship, $10, 000; Texas A&M University College Board Recognition, $14,000; Texas A&M University Aggie Merit Scholarship, $2,000; 2015 MJH UIL Academic Scholarship, $250; VMHS Coca-Cola Scholarship, $978; Knights of Columbus, $1,000. De La Garza, Ricardo Gabriel–St. Mary’s University Madeleine Scholarship, $56,000. De Leon, Valeria–St. Mary’s University Madeleine Scholarship, $56,000; Burger King Scholars, $1,000. Diaz, Cassandra–St. Mary’s University Madeleine Scholarship, $56,000. Dominguez, Victoria Marie–Texas Student Housing Scholarship, $2,500; Junior

Service League of Mission, $500; Linebarger, Goggan, Blair & Sampson, LLP Law Firm Scholarship $500; Texas A&M Community Connection Award, $2,000; Texas A&M Texas Aggie Grant, $10,000. Espinosa, Arantza–2015 IBC Bank A.R. Sanchez Scholarship, $1,000. Esquivel, Christian Giovanni–St. Mary’s University Bordeaux Scholarship, $48,000; 2016 UTRGV Scholars, $20,000; UTRGV Excellence Scholarship, $1,000. Fajardo Jr., Vicente–Bob Treviño Insurance and Jeff Everitt and Associates Scholarship, $500. Flores, Adrian Catarino– St. Mary’s University Bordeaux Scholarship, $48,000. Fuentes, Talia Arista–University of Houston Academic Excellence Scholarship, $4,000; Hidalgo County 4-H Foundation, $3,000. Gamboa, Karina Judith– St. Mary’s University Madeleine Scholarship, $56,000; Bradley Espinoza Scholarship, $300. Garcia, Andrea Lamar–St. Mary’s University Madeleine Scholarship, $56,000; Bradley Espinoza Scholarship, $500; The University of Texas at Austin Summer Bridge Scholarship, $5,000; The University of Texas at Austin Summer Bridge Merit Scholarship, $1,000; The University of Texas at Austin Grants and Scholarships, $12,000; Knights of Columbus, $1,000. Garcia, Kendra Lizette– Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show Scholarship, $500; Veterans Memorial FFA Alumni Association Scholarship, $1,100. Garcia, Kevin Alberto– Bob Treviño Insurance and Jeff Everitt and Associates Scholarship, $500. Garcia III, Lorenzo–United States Marine Corps G.I. Bill, $85,000. Garcia, Noah Elexander–Northwestern College Football Scholarship, $6,000; Northwestern Grant, $24,000. Garza, Brandon Martin– Mission Regional Medical Center Scholarship, $1,000; Gustavo and Rosa Zapata Scholarship, $500; TWU Excellence Scholarship, $8,000; 2015 William Jennings Bryan Scholarship, $500; Amanda Longoria Memorial Scholarship, $1,000. Garza, Ester Dominic–St. Mary’s University Bordeaux Scholarship, $48,000; Amanda Longoria Memorial Scholarship, $1,000. Gastel, Karla Azeneth–St. Mary’s University Bordeaux Scholarship, $48,000; 2015 MJH UIL Academic Scholarship, $250. Gonzales, Alyssa Marie– St. Mary’s University Bordeaux Scholarship, $48,000; UTRGV Excellence Scholarship, $500; Patriot STARS Scholarship, $250; Bob Treviño Insurance and Jeff Everitt and Associates Scholarship, $500; J.B. Garcia Memorial Scholarship, $500 . Gonzalez Andrade, Cynthia Yajaira–Patriot STARS Scholarship, $250. Gonzalez, Aaron Jacob–St. Edward’s Grant, $222,325; St. Edward’s CAMP Award, $10,550. Gonzalez, Charles Martinez–2015 Rafael Cantu Jr. High National Honor Society Scholarship, $250. Gonzalez, Mariah Lourdes–UTRGV Excellence Scholarship, $500. Grissom, Cody Evan–St. Mary’s University Presidential Scholarship, $64,000; The University of Texas at Austin Presidential Achievement Scholarship, $20,000; Baylor University Academic Scholarship, $58,000; 2016 UTRGV Scholars, $20,000. Guerrero, Rogelio–2015 Rafael Cantu Jr. High National Honor Society Scholarship, $250; Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show Academic Scholarship, $500; Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show Exhibitor’s Scholarship, $500; Texas Citrus Fiesta Youth Show, $500; Veterans Memorial FFA Alumni Association Scholarship, $1,200; Schreiner University Dean’s Scholarship, $44,000; St. Mary’s University Chaminade Grant, $40,000. Guillen Treviño, Cesar Ivan–St. Mary’s University Bordeaux Scholarship,

$48,000. Gutierrez, Alexi Astrid– Western Michigan University 2015 Multicultural Leader Scholarship, $16,000. Gutierrez, Andrea–St. Mary’s University Bordeaux Scholarship, $48,000; Texas A&M Community Connection, $2,000. Haro, Judith Maria–St. Mary’s University Trustee Scholarship, $80,000; Rice University Beverly and Donald Bonham Scholarship, $96,000; Columbia Grant, $59,308; Rochester Institute of Technology Presidential Scholarship, $64,000; Rochester Institute of Technology Grant, $13,200; Charles Schreiner Scholars Awards, $68,000; The Indiana Tech Engineering and Computer Sciences Scholarship, $60,000; Wentworth Merit Scholarship, $52,000; Quinnipiac University Trustee Award, $92,000; Beliot College Presidential Scholarship, $100,000; McDaniel College Academic Scholarship, $72,000; Fordham University Presidential Scholarship, $161,000; Fordham Presidential Room Award, $60,260; Case Western Reserve University Scholarship, $122,000; 2015 Rafael Cantu Jr. High National Honor Society Scholarship, $250; John Cabot University Presidential Scholarship, $38,000; John Cabot University Assistance, 3,000; 2016 UTRGV Scholars, $20,000. Hinojosa, Elias Alexandro–St. Mary’s University Bordeaux Scholarship, $48,000; Bradley Espinoza Scholarship, $300; 2015 Rafael Cantu Jr. High National Honor Society Scholarship, $250. Kearns, Kevin Rahamut Sultan–St. Mary’s University Bordeaux Scholarship, $48,000; 2015 Rafael Cantu Jr. High National Honor Society Scholarship, $250. Leal, Aaron Daniel– University of Incarnate Word Achievement Award, $32,000. Leal, Arnoldo David–St. Mary’s University Chaminade Grant, $40,000; University of the Incarnate Word Achievement Award, $32,000. Llamas, Alejandro–Mission Lions Club Scholarship, $500. Lozoya, Rebecca Nicole–Burger King Scholars, $1,000. Luna, David–United States Marine Corps G.I. Bill, $85,000. Martinez, Aaryn Lynee– Texas Lutheran University Academic Excellence Scholarship, $52,000. Martinez, Alyssa Marie– St. Mary’s University Bordeaux Scholarship, $48,000; 2015 Rafael Cantu Jr. High National Honor Society Scholarship, $250. Martinez, Ana Karen–St. Mary’s University Madeleine Scholarship, $56,000; 2016 UTRGV Scholars, $20,000. Martinez, Jacqueline Annel–St. Mary’s University Bordeaux Scholarship, $48,000. Martinez, Lisa Renee–St. Mary’s University Chaminade Grant, $40,000. Martinez, Mikayla Ayne– St. Mary’s University Bordeaux Scholarship, $48,000; Mission Regional Medical Center Scholarship, $1,000; Stephens College Scholarship, $56,000; Houston Baptist University Grant I, $24,000; The University of Texas of the Permian Basin Freshman Achievement Scholarship, $20,000; UTRGV Excellence Scholarship, $1,000. Medina, Astrid Alejandra– Texas Wesleyan University Rams Scholarship, $24,000; Our Lady of the Lake University Faculty Scholarship, $32,000; Our Lady of the Lake University Grant, $4,212. Moreno, Vanessa–St. Mary’s University Bordeaux Scholarship, $48,000; UTRGV Excellence Scholarship, $1,000; UTRGV Assistance Scholarship, $2,250. Mueller, Brian Gene– American Musical and Dramatic Academy Scholarship Award, $6,000. Ornelas, Kasandra Jaylene–UTRGV Excellence Scholarship, $500. Pancardo, Denise–2015

See SCHOLARSHIPS 24B

page 24B

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VMHS students earn National Hispanic Recognition

hree seniors from Veterans Memorial High School have been recognized by the College Board’s National Hispanic Recognition Program. This program provides national recognition of the exceptional academic achievement of Hispanic high school seniors and identifies them for postsecondary institutions. Cody Grissom, Henry Davis, and Lee Sanchez have been recognized as scholars in the program. Students enter the program by taking the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) as high school juniors and by identifying themselves as His-

panic. The students must achieve the minimum required PSAT/NMSQT cutoff score, and achieve a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or higher by the end of their junior year. Each year, the NHRP honors about 5,000 of the highest-scoring students from over 250,000 Hispanic/

SCHOLARSHIPS from pg 23B

Latino juniors who take the PSAT/NMSQT). The College Board is a not-for-profit membership association whose mission is to connect students to college success and opportunity. Their programs includes the SAT, the PSAT/NMSQT, and the Advanced Placement Program.

VMHS band students advance to state competition Students advancing to state UIL from the VMHS band are: Noel Barsenas, Christyn Cavazos, Christian Contreras, Michael De la Garza, Victoria Escamilla, Noah Flores, Valeria Flores, Alexandra Galvez, Iris Garcia, Tomas Garcia, Elizabeth Gonzalez, Deandra Guevara, Cassandra Gutierrez, Jaime Hernandez, Amanda Juarez, Juan Trinidad Lara, Rebecca Muniz, Sarai Muniz, Valeria Munoz, Ixtaccihuatl Obregon, Matthew Perez-Garcia, Jose Ramirez, Kevin Robles, John Schmidt, Kellen Shults, Judith Tijerina, Daniel Trevino, Gabriel Trevino, Andrea Uribe, Daniel Vallejo, and Marcoantonio Vasquez. Other students who also earned a first division rating for their performances are: Luis Alvarez, Adam Barrera, Matthew Cantu, Evelyn Cassiano, Jack Cavazos, Dariany Ceja, Andrea Davila, Robert Garcia, Lauren Hernandez, Valorie Moreno, Reynaldo Ochoa, Jonah Perez, Rolando Ramirez, Brenda Rangel, Mark Rios, Micael Rodriguez, Emily Salinas, Mia Sanchez, and Andrew Silva. Matthew Cantu, Andrea Davila, and Elleana Requenez earned first division ratings on their ensemble performance.

VMHS CEREMONY

dress will be given by Henry Davis III, followed by the valedictory address by Lee Jacob Sanchez. López will provide the official certification of graduates, after which, the members of the Class of 2015 will be awarded their diplomas by the Mission Consolidated Independent School District Board of Trustees. A benediction will be pro-

vided by Emily Dawn Cantu. The senior song selection will be performed by: Sandra Samara Barba, Alexis Michelle Barrientes, Destiny Love Conde, Darius Vicente Rothelridge Davis, Kelly Josephine Gutierrez, Astrid Elizabeth Hernandez, Juan Trinidad Lara, Daniela Berenice Lugo Tovar, Marisol Marentes, Ana Karen Martinez, Cody Ellis Martinez,

from pg 1B

Brian Gene Mueller, Tianna Lyzett Ortega, Karina Romero-Gutierrez, Sarai Salinas, San Juanita Saavedra, Judith Elisa Sanchez, Sabrina Divine Solis, Hannah Steele, Jessica Janelle Villarreal. The tassel ceremony will be led by Mariah Lourdes Gonzalez. The graduates will depart to “War March of the Priest.”

Rafael Cantu Jr. High National Honor Society Scholarship, $250. Parras, Adela Izamar–2015 Rafael Cantu Jr. High National Honor Society Scholarship, $250; Salem International University GrantIn Award, $18,000. Peña, Daniela Lisette– Amanda Longoria Memorial Scholarship, $500. Peña, Edward Andrew– St. Mary’s University Bordeaux Scholarship, $48,000; UTRGV Excellence Scholarship, $1,000. Ponce De Leon, Samantha Jaselle–St. Mary’s University Madeleine Scholarship, $56,000; 2015 Rafael Cantu Jr. High National Honor Society Scholarship, $250. Quintanilla, Adriana Martinez–St. Mary’s University Presidential Scholarship, $64,000; 2015 Rafael Cantu Jr. High National Honor Society Scholarship, $250; The University of Texas at Austin Presidential Achievement Scholarship, $20,000. Quintanilla, Lesley Amairani–2015 Rafael Cantu Jr. High National Honor Society Scholarship, $250. Reyna II, Gerardo Javier– University of Houston Athletics Scholarship, $18,000. Reyna, Jasmine Marie–St. Mary’s University Bordeaux Scholarship, $48,000. Riley, Kearstan Annette– Corwin C. Connell Masonic Scholarship, $1,000. Rodriguez, April Marie– Our Lady of the Lake University Academic Scholarship,

VMHS TOP 3

and major in mechanical engineering and perhaps a special program that also combines a program in business. Davis said his main plans for the summer entail getting ready for his studies in the fall. Davis said when he does head off to college he will miss family, friends, and the food here. In addition to his studies, Davis’ senior year has included: UIL, BPA, Masterminds, robotics, golf team, and church activities. Davis said he is really looking forward to the whole college experience, including the academics and the community. His advice to

$30,000. Rodriguez, Rebecca Marie–Patriot STARS Scholarship, $250. Rodriguez III, Ted–Richard’s Pharmacy Scholarship, $500. Salinas, Michelle Savannah–2015 Rafael Cantu Jr. High National Honor Society Scholarship, $250; 2016 UTRGV Scholars, $20,000; UTRGV Excellence Scholarship, $1,000; Patriot STARS Scholarship, $250. Salinas, Sarai–Schreiner University Deans Scholarship, $44,000; Schreiner Grant, $4,000; Bob Treviño Insurance and Jeff Everitt and Associates Scholarship, $500. Sanchez Castillo, Jose Ulises–Amanda Longoria Memorial Scholarship, $500. Sanchez Garcia, Erick Brandon–St. Mary’s University Madeleine Scholarship, $56,000. Sanchez Jr., Javier Angel– Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show Scholarship, $500; Veterans Memorial FFA Alumni Association Scholarship, $1,000. Sanchez, Lee Jacob– VMHS Coca Cola Scholarship, $978; Mission Classroom Teachers Association Scholarship, $500; Texas A&M University College Board Recognition Award Scholarship, $14,000; Texas A&M University Lechner Scholarship, $10,000; Bridgestone Americas, Inc. Scholarship, $4,000. Sanchez, Linda Yvette–St. Mary’s University Bordeaux Scholarship, $48,000; 2016 members of the class of 2016 is to never stop trying and don’t believe anyone who says the senior year is easy. He also warned against the illness commonly known as senioritis. Veterans Memorial High School’s third ranking student, Judith Haro will be heading off to the east coast for college this fall. She plans to attend Columbia University. There, she plans to study computer science and is particularly interested in the areas that impact artificial intelligence. Haro is the daughter of Blanca Avila. Her plans for the

May 29, 2015

UTRGV Scholars, $20,000; University of Mary Hardin-Baylor Honor Scholarship, $20,000; Our Lady of the Lake University Academic Scholarship, $56,000; Bethel College Merit Award, $48,000; Houston Baptist University President’s Academic Scholarship, $56,000. Sanchez, Ryan James–St. Mary’s University Bordeaux Scholarship, $48,000; Texas State University Achievement Scholarship, $16,000. Solis, Sabrina Divine–St. Mary’s University Madeleine Scholarship, $56,000; UTRGV Excellence Scholarship, $1,000. Torres Becerra, Maria Fernanda–St. Mary’s University Madeleine Scholarship, $56,000; 2015 Rafael Cantu Jr. High National Honor Society Scholarship, $250; 2016 UTRGV Scholars, $20,000; UTRGV Excellence Scholarship, $1,000. Trejo, Ina Valeria–St. Mary’s University Bordeaux Scholarship, $48,000. Vasquez Jr., Jesus–St. Mary’s University Bordeaux Scholarship, $48,000 . Vazquez, Valerie–United States Marine Corps G.I. Bill, $85,000. Vick, Miranda Nicole– Amanda Longoria Memorial Scholarship, $500; Ray Rodgers Scholarship, $500. Villarreal, Audrey Anne– St. Mary’s University Bordeaux Scholarship, $48,000. Villarreal, Jessica Janelle– Corwin C. Connell Masonic Scholarship, $1,000. Villegas, Gabriela–Burger King Scholars, $1,000. from pg 1B

summer include finding a job to help pay for her college expenses. Her senior year activities have included UIL, National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, art, web development, and an international math contest. Haro said one of the things she is most looking forward to about college is the people aspect. She enjoys watching people and their ways of working, etc. Her advice to next year’s seniors: when people say you can’t do something, smile and then find a way to accomplish it anyway.