July 3, 2015 - Progress Times Issue by Progress Times

Friday, July 3, 2015

www.ptrgv.com | 50 Cents

Benavides is Regional Superintendent of the Year

By Julie Silva he Region One ESC named La Joya ISD Superintendent Alda T. Benavides the Superintendent of Year in an announcement last week highlighting the district’s drive to create a “college-going culture.” “Among the sweeping innovations she has implemented within the district, the most profound is probably the most simple – the renaming of a school street that leads to all three Early College High Schools to College Drive reminding all students that high school is the first step,” states a news release

from Region One Education Service Center. La Joya Independent School Districts includes 36 campuses educating more than 29,000 students. Not only has Benavides served as the head of the district for nine years, she’s also a product of La Joya ISD. Board Member Juan Jose Peña said Benavides sets a true example by putting staff and students first, and trustee Esperanza “Espie” Ochoa said Benavides’ leadership at the district has demonstrated equity versus equality. “When we think of equality, we think of same, but in education we need to think

of equity as being an equal to all because the dynamics and the needs are very different at each campus and department for the district,” Ochoa said. She added, “It’s a great honor to have her selected as Region One Superintendent of the Year in her own alma mater. I am very proud of her as an educator and as a woman in leadership achieving this recognition.” According to the nomination, Benavides has gotten involved with the community, creating the Parent Round Table and holding town hall meetings at all of the high schools. There are also Su-

perintendent-Mayors’ Breakfast meetings twice a year, and the Anti Gang and Violence Task Force includes elected officials, law enforcement agencies parents and volunteers. Among Benavides’ accomplishments with students, her nomination form lists the implementation of the Superintendent’s Student Round Table, the High School Advisory Pack and the Olweus Anti-bullying Program. “The idea of involving students in the decision making process is an integral part

See BENAVIDES 13

Sharyland ISD to MISSION MAKEOVER use federal funds for counselors

By Lea Victoria Juarez when the students go see us and tell us about their probepending on the stu- lems and what’s happening dent population, Wer- at home, and we’re able to necke Elementary’s help them, it makes me so two counselors each take on happy.” about 400 kids in a school Texas recommends a stuyear. Other elementary cam- dent-to-counselor ratio of puses in the Sharyland Inde- about 450-to-1, according pendent School District only to Interim Superintendent have one counselor, also de- Filomena Leo. Gonzalez pending on the student pop- and her counseling partner ulation. Susan Meijerink try to see But starting in August, the anywhere from three to four elementaries will have extra students a day. Their focus is sets of eyes and ears on staff. helping students feel comIn May, Congressman fortable in their current enHenry Cuellar, D-Laredo, vironment, in spite of what announced that Sharyland happens in their home life, ISD will receive almost $1.2 Gonzalez said. million in federal funding “The students that are atover the next three years risk will tell you that they from the Department of Edu- have no real purpose in life cation. The bulk of the funds or that they don’t feel needed will be used to hire four new or that they don’t feel loved,” counselors who will travel the Wernecke counselor said. between SISD’s elementary “When we’re able to tell campuses and aid the exist- them that we care about them ing counselors. at our school, that we will “Sometimes it’s hard to always be there, it makes it see many students individ- special for them.” ually,” Wernecke Counselor According to Leo, the Erika Gonzalez said. “We’re grant was written to target going to be able to have peo- students that have identified ple helping us build relation- as being at-risk of failure ships and make a connection and students who come from with those students.” families that are economiGonzalez works with cally disadvantaged by fedprimarily at-risk students, eral standards. The intent is which encompasses English to lower the student ratio to Language Learners and stu- every counselor to provide dents who have been in the more services, more often. Alternative Education ProStudents just want to be gram. heard, Gonzalez said. TeachThe 37-year-old was an ers have anywhere from 22 ELL student herself. She was to 25 students in classroom raised in Mexico, learned and parental involvement is English at 17 years old and a factor, but the counselor went to college to become a said she has seen students teacher, but had a dream of improve just from daily visbecoming a counselor. She its to her office. wanted to help the students “The fact that they can who also came to the states go at the end of the day to and struggled to learn En- a counselor and talk to us glish. for 10 minutes about their “You have no idea of day, it’s important,” Gonzathe things that we see, what lez said. “Their confidence we hear –- the family prob- grows and it makes them feel lems,” Gonzalez said. “But better.”

Methodist group works for community

By Lea Victoria Juarez

group of middle schoolers gave parts of Mission a makeover this week. The U.M. ARMY – United Methodist Action Reach-out Mission by Youth – spent three days building fences, tiling floors and building transportation devices. In the summer, the U.M. ARMY volunteers in nine communities. Last year, Pastor Bill Duke of Mission’s First Methodist Church requested U.M. ARMY visit Mission. “We’re trying to serve the community in ways that hopefully will be sustainable,” said Associate Pastor Kevin Portwood of the First United Methodist Church in Portland, Texas. “We come in and we try to donate the supplies ourselves and offer our labor. These are constructions projects that the kids can get in on, and they’re fun.”

For three days, the ARMY worked from morning until mid afternoon on projects around the city before retiring to their hosts at First UMC. Monday, they volunteered for the Personal Energy Transportation Project, where they worked to build three-wheeled carts for people that have lost their legs. The wheelbarrow-like vehicles are built in Mission and then shipped to Mexico. Tuesday, the cohort put up fences for a park at the church, built and painted a shed and fixed a prayer garden. Wednesday, the youth group did construction at the Mission Boys & Girls Club. They tiled the library and multipurpose rooms and built cabinets. “It means a whole lot for us especially here in the Boys & Girls Club because they are servicing our community and helping us grow, and helping our facilities

TOP: Two members of United Methodist Action Reach-out Mission by Youth tile floor of the Mission’s Boys & Girls Club library. U.M. ARMY volunteered for three days around the city of Mission. ABOVE: Eliana Dykehouse of U.M. ARMY uses liquid glue to piece together cabinets she helped construct at the Boys & Girls Club. Photos by Lea Victoria Juarez

grow,” said Ludovico Martinez, the executive director at the club. Portwood held his position as associate pastor for a week before hopping in a van and traveling to Mission with the youth group. He had only just started working with the

kids and didn’t even know some of their names until they began the trip. In spite of the short time together, the experience has allowed them to bond. “A lot of what the Boys &

See MAKEOVER 13

INSIDE

New Office Hours

The office of the Progress Times and Winter Texan Times has adopted new summer hours. The office will be open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

INDEX

Entertainment | pg. 2

Lifestyle | pg. 8

Fourth of July activities across the Valley

Museum explores Mission’s roots

Communities from across the area have planned events to celebrate Independence Day on Saturday.

Summer history program wraps up with focus on artifacts, showing children the benefits of art history.

See story page 3

See story page 5

Opinion | pg. 4

Happy Birthday America!

Obituaries | pg. 11

215 E. 3 Mile Rd. Palmhurst • 956-519-8453 1705 Exp 83 • Peñitas 956-519-8453

Classifieds | pg. 13

entertainment

Live animal show at Quinta Mazatlan next week

uinta Mazatlan invites you to take your family for a great live animal show in English and Spanish on Thursday, July 9, 7 p.m. in the park. Kids of all ages will be entertained and educated by Contacto Animal. The show involves audience participation, touching creatures and information on how to live together in this world. Plus a special visit from an extinct creature from the dinosaur age is sure to excite all. Quinta Mazatlan is located just one block south of La Plaza Mall off 10th street at 600 Sunset Drive. The park entrance is $3 for adults and $2 for children. For more information please call 956681-3370 or visit www.quintamazatlan.com

Parents and children will have a great time at the Contacto Animal live show in the park on Thursday, July 9, 7 p.m. at Quinta Mazatlan in McAllen.

UTPA announces final Pan American Summer Stock season

Political Ad. paid for by the Re-Elect Commissioner Joe Flores Campaign, Luisa Ruiz - Treasurer, PO Box 310, Mission, TX 78573

niversity Theatre Productions is presenting two comedies this summer as part of UT Pan American’s final Summer Stock season. The comedies are Moon over Buffalo and Wonder of the World. Attendees can catch the first, Moon over Buffalo by Ken Ludwig, 7:30 p.m. July 3-4, with a final matinee at 2 p.m. July 5. Moon over Buffalo tells the story of Charlotte and George Hay, traveling actors who perform “Cyrano de Bergerac” and “Private Lives” in a theater in Buffalo, NY. Charlotte dreams of acting on the big screen, but George believes live theatre is greater than film. However, as one calamity after another befalls the couple, it seems none of their dreams will come true. The second offering, David Lindsay-Abaire’s Wonder of the World, focuses on Cass, a woman who has decided to leave Kip, her husband of seven years. Armed with a list of more than 200 things she wants to do (many

See UTPA 8

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NEWS | SPORTS | ENTERTAINMENT | PHOTOS

Coming Attractions

July 3 • Music After Hours at the McAllen Creative Incubator will feature various style of music ranging from acoustic guitar, blues, jazz, indie and alternative rock. The evening starts at 7 p.m. McAllen Creative Incubator is located at 601 N. Main St. • Aaron Watson 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. July 4 • Santa Maria Bullring will present a grand forma farewell to breeding program with a Grand Formal Bullfight Festival. Bullfighters will include Jim Verner, Lt. Col. Ed Jeep, Cesar Martinez, Marco Antonio Garza and David Verner facing the brave animals of Don Fred Renk and Longino Mendoza. There will be live music, food and cold drinks. All tickets are $20. Call (956) 481-3300 for reservations. Sant Maria Bullring is located at 4877 FM 1017 in Santa Elena. • The Life in Color Big Bang World Tour will have an outdoor concert at the State Farm Arena from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. For more information and to buy tickets, visit www.statefarmarena.com. • ZZ Not Live 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. July 9 Mana – Cama Incendiada will perform at the State Farm Arena at 8 p.m. Doors open at 7 p.m. For more information and to buy tickets, visit www.statefarmarena.com. July 11 Here’s a chance to show off your sidewalk chalk drawing skills and win prizes. Get your own sidewalk block and let your imagination run wild. All ages and skills levels are welcome at the Sidewalk Chalk Art Contest at the Palm View Community Center in McAllen from 6 to 8 p.m. There will be categories and age divisions for contests. Each sidewalk block is $3. For more information, call the community center at 681-3360. July 11-August 12 Upper Valley Art League will host Christopher Brown Sports Artist One Man Exhibit fromJuly 11 through August 12. An opening reception will be held July 11 from 7 to 9 p.m. where there will be refreshments and art sales. Browns artwork is in the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame where he is trusted with creating each inductees Hall of Fame portrait that is displayed in the museum. Some of the inductees include Shaquille O’Neil, Marshall Faulk and Nick Saban. Brown was a former pro baseball player who now combines two of his life long passions, sports and art, into his artwork. He is

primarily a prismacolor artist who has recently established some new mixed media techniques. UVAL is located at 921 E. 12th St. in Mission. July 12 McAllen Public Library will host Scapes by Carol Plumb from 1 to 9 p.m. The exhibit began in June and will stay at the library until August 30. Plumb’s artwork features landscapes, including Texas coast landscapes. McAllen Library is located at 4001 N. 23rd St. July 16-19 State Farm Arena will host Ringling Bros. and Barnum and Bailey: Built to Amaze. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit statefarmarena.com or ringling.com. July 17-19 The 25th Annual Texas Hunters and Sportsman’s Expo will take place at the McAllen Convention Center and will include information on experienced guides and outfitters, attractions, exotic wildlife ranches, major boat and RV dealers, fishing guides, wildlife artists, conservation groups and more. Show hours are 5-9 p.m. on Friday, July 16, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, July 18 and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday, July 19. For more information, visit, www.texashunterassociation.com August 14 Quiet Riot, the rock and roll phenomenon, will be live at Louie’s Backyard on South Padre Island at 11 p.m. Described as the first heavy metal band to top the charts, The Los Angeles quartet became an overnight sensation thanks to their monster 1983 smash album Metal Health. Their follow up album Condition Critical went double platinum and the band continued to record and tour throughout their 25 plus year history. It has been nearly three years since the loss of band mate Kevin DuBrow, and with careful consideration, soul searching and with the blessings and support of Kevin DuBrow’s family, the musical legacy of Quiet Riot is continuing their journey with Frankie Banali, bassist Chuck Wright, guitarist Alex Grossi and vocalist Jizzy Pearl. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www. rgvevents.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.

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RGV celebrates Independence Day

housands of Valley residents will gather to celebrate America’s birthday this weekend by firing up the grill, going on picnics, setting off firework or attending parties. Countless others will load up the kids and head out to one or more public celebrations being held in communities across the Rio Grande Valley. Parades, eating contests, concerts, cook-offs and the ever-popular and awe-inspiring fireworks displays are just some of the activities that will be available. Archer and McAllen Municipal parks Families from every corner of the Rio Grande Valley travel to witness a unique Fourth of July firework extravaganza in South Texas, dubbed the Concert in the Sky. The annual Independence Day Parade features an evening filled with entertainment and festivities including music, food, games, and arts and crafts. Activities will begin at 8 a.m. with the Patriotic Program and a performance by the McAllen Town Band and conclude around 9 p.m. with a fireworks show. The parade is scheduled for 9 a.m. and follows the downtown trail on Main

Street from Houston Avenue to Cedar Street. It starts at city hall and ends at Archer Park. The hot dog eating contest is scheduled for 11 a.m. and other events and entertainment are scheduled throughout the day. Afternoon festivities take place at the McAllen Municipal Park where children can take a dip in the pool to cool off during the Aquatic Splash Bash, a pool party featuring lots of activities. International Museum of Art & Science IMAS has invited the public to celebrate the Fourth of July from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. During the evening, guests will be able to visit the museum’s exhibits, including the popular “3, 2, 1 … Blast Off!,” explore the Ann Moore Art Studio, Science Lab and Kidstruction, take part in various hands-on activities, as well as enjoy the fireworks show presented by the City of McAllen from the front lawn. IMAS encourages visitors to bring blankets to enjoy the fireworks (no lawn chairs will be permitted). Children of all ages will be able to make their own KoolAid paper fireworks, American Flags, “Explosions in a Bag,” as well as visit the designated “Kaboomistry” area

Reminiscing... 30 Years Ago This Week

Hospital groundbreaking Ground was broken for Mission’s new $15 million, 110bed hospital. Those attending the ceremony included Rep. Kika de La Garza as well as board members Richard Martinez, Virgil Ballard, Lupe Gonzalez and Elliott Bottom. Also in attendance were Edgar Walsh, former board member; Mayor Pat Townsend; Dr. Charles Mims; Dr. Den Robinson, chair of the hospital board. Uribe was appointed to two agencies Sen. Hector Uribe received two appointments to out-ofstate agencies. Lt. Gov. Bill Hobby, presiding officer of the senate, named Uribe to the Southern Legislative Conference Energy Committee. The other appointment was to the National Conference of State Legislatures State-Federal Assembly Energy Committee.

outside by RioScape where there will be Elephant’s Toothpaste, Mentos and CO2 demonstrations, and swish bottles. Additional activities include presentations in the newly upgraded Science On a Sphere Theater, live animal talks and story time. Tickets are $5 per IMAS member and $10 per non-member and must be purchased before the event at the IMAS front desk or by phone by calling (956) 6820123. An optional parking permit can be purchased for an additional $5 per car. Edinburg Municipal Park The Edinburg Chamber of Commerce is hosting Texas Cook’Em: High Steaks in Edinburg on July 4 at Edinburg Municipal Park, 714 Raul Longoria. Competitors will battleonthegrilltocookthebest

chick- en, ribs, brisket and rib-eye for money and a year’s worth of bragging rights. Doors open at 9 a.m. and the festivities end at 9:30 p.m. with fireworks. Texas Cook’em awards $20,000 in prizes to the winners. It’s the first and only IBCA and SCA sanctioned steak cook-off in South Texas. Each year, the event features fireworks, live music, a family fun zone, barbecue and more. Harlingen’s Lon C. Hill Park Live music will greet the public in Harlingen for two evenings of entertainment during the third annual Freedom Fest on Saturday, July 4, and Sunday, July 5. There is no admission fee for Freedom Fest, located at the Lon C. Hill Park along

Fair Park Boulevard near the Harlingen Municipal Auditorium, from 5 to 11 p.m. both days. No outside food or beverages will be allowed on Freedom Fest grounds. The public is invited to bring lawn chairs and blankets for seating. Entertainment for the Fourth of July weekend will include a show featuring classic cars and motorcycles, games and rides for children, arts and crafts for youngsters and business vendors from both sides of the Rio Grande. Fireworks Saturday night will begin shortly after sunset. The Fourth of July weekend in Harlingen will begin Saturday morning with the “Let Freedom Ring!” parade sponsored by the Rio Grande Valley Jaycees. The parade is scheduled for 10 a.m. in downtown Harlingen along Jackson Avenue. Details about the parade are online at www.rgvjaycees.com. Brownsville Sports Park The annual Fourth of July Salute to Freedom Celebration begins at 4 p.m. Saturday at the Brownsville Sports Park. The event is free and open to the public. The celebration kicks off with the opening of the tailgate area of the park. Outside food and drinks are allowed in that area

only. Live music begins at 5 p.m., and continues throughout the event. Event sponsor H-E-B will host a hospitality booth with refreshments for all veterans and active duty military personnel. Veterans are asked to bring appropriate identification to access the booth. GLOW DASH, Brownsville’s premier night time 5K run/walk, will begin at 5:30 p.m. Participants are encouraged to wear colorful clothing, neon lights, or costumes. More information may be found at www.glowdash.net. South Texas’ largest fireworks display will begin at approximately 9:15 p.m. South Padre Island Beach Access No. 22 The public is invited to decorate wagons, bring costumed pets and dress in red, white and blue at the Fourth of July Beach Parade at 10 a.m. Visitors are encouraged to bring flags, musical instruments, drums and banners. There will be free mini flags and beads at the race start (Access 22) and watermelon at the end (Access 17). Prizes will be awarded for the best group, costume and wagon. Lineup is at 9:30 a.m. Fireworks on the beach are scheduled for 9 p.m.

La Joya ISD goes back to drawing board on budget

By Julie Silva a Joya ISD Superintendent Alda T. Benavides said administrators are going back to the drawing board at the third budget workshop of the summer. The general fund as proposed is $28 million over budget, with an anticipated $308 million in expenses. That includes raises for employees, but it doesn’t include another $30 million in special projects. “Needless to say, between here and … the next board meeting, we’re going to do some work to bring those numbers down,” said Alfre-

do Vela, assistant superintendent of finance. “There’s no way we can bring a budget that is $50 to $60 million short to the board.” The next workshop is scheduled for July 29. The board is scheduled to adopt the budget in August. Already, Vela said the shortfall includes more than $28 million in projects already under construction, like the sports and learning complex at the golf course. There’s not much that can be trimmed there. Budget officers will take a hard look at special requests from departments, which add up to $3.6 million, but Vela said they’d

be looking at the entire budget. Trustee Oscar “Coach” Salinas said the board is all about taking care of the district’s staff, but they’re hearing complaints from parents that several schools need sidewalks or roofing. The district also needs quality facilities for education, Salinas said. And trustee Esperanza “Espie” Ochoa said many of the projects involved things like replacing gutters or putting in new doors for safety purposes. “I mean all of these are needs,” Ochoa said. Benavides emphasized

the priority schools that would see upgrades this year are La Joya High School, Reyna Elementary, Leo Elementary and Benavides Elementary. At previous workshops, board members have indicated they’d like to see pay raises for all staff, and budget officers recommended a $1,200 increase for teachers and presented options for a 2, 2.5 percent and 3 percent increase for noninstructional staff. The options would cost the district between $4.7 million and $7 million. The budget projections

See LJISD 10

opinion By Ed Sterling Texas Press Association

STATE CAPITAL HIGHLIGHTS Officials react to decision on federal health care law

USTIN — Pursuant to a 6-3 decision by the United States Supreme Court on June 25, health insurance policies will stay on course for Texans who secured coverage through a federally facilitated exchange under the U.S. Affordable Care Act. The high court, in ruling against the plaintiffs in the case King v. Burwell, upheld the constitutionality of a federal tax credit that pays a portion of the cost of a policy. After the decision was announced, Governor Greg Abbott said, “The Supreme Court abandoned the Constitution to resuscitate a failing healthcare law. Today’s action underscores why it is now more important than ever to ensure we elect a president who will repeal Obamacare and enact real healthcare reforms.” Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick also reacted, saying, “I am extremely disappointed that the Supreme Court of the United States has once again sided with President Obama’s disastrous healthcare legislation.” And Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton said, “This is unfortunate news for the millions of Americans who have experienced firsthand the devastating effects Obamacare has had on their families and businesses.” Stacey Pogue of the Center for Public Policy Priorities, an independent Austin-based research organization, said, “This ruling means that the 832,000 Texans whose subsidies pay 75 percent of the cost of their premiums on average will

continue to have access to affordable health insurance.” Currently, Pogue said, some 3 million Texans are “potentially eligible for federal Marketplace coverage.” In March, when the Supreme Court heard oral arguments in King v. Burwell, various news sources reported national enrollment in “Obamacare” totaled 11.7 million people. In his June 26 address welcoming the high court’s decision, President Obama said 16 million Americans who were uninsured before, now have health care coverage under the Affordable Care Act. Court rules on same-sex marriage The U.S. Supreme Court on June 26 ruled 5-4 in Obergefell v. Hodges, invalidating state bans that prevent the recognition of marriages of same-sex couples. Gov. Abbott reacted, saying, “Despite the Supreme Court’s rulings, Texans’ fundamental right to religious liberty remains protected. No Texan is required by the Supreme Court’s decision to act contrary to his or her religious beliefs regarding marriage.” Lt. Gov. Patrick said, “The Supreme Court, as it has in the past, is making law. I do not believe that is what the Constitution intended or allows. In my view, this is a clear violation of the separation of powers.” On June 28, Attorney General Paxton posted Opinion No. KP-0025, Re: Rights of government officials involved with issuing samesex marriage licenses and conducting same-sex wedding ceremonies.

Paxton’s summary of the opinion says: “County clerks and their employees retain religious freedoms that may provide accommodation of their religious objections to issuing same-sex marriage licenses. Justices of the peace and judges also may claim that the government forcing them to conduct same-sex wedding ceremonies over their religious objections, particularly when other authorized individuals have no objection to conducting such ceremonies, is not the least restrictive means of furthering any compelling governmental interest in ensuring that such ceremonies occur. Importantly, the strength of any particular religious accommodation claim depends on the particular facts of each case.” In contrast, State Rep. Celia Israel, D-Austin, cheered. In a June 26 statement, she said, in part, that she is “relieved the Supreme Court struck down discriminatory laws out of step with most Texans, noting that same-sex couples want to get married to make a lifetime commitment to the person they love and to protect their families.” State Sen. Kirk Watson, D-Austin, said, “We have come so far in a relatively short period of time on the issue of same-sex marriage. But those in control of Texas refuse to join the 21st century. They have already declared their intent to continue to fight on the wrong side of history. Their fight is futile because this ruling affirms the fundamental American ideal of equality under the law.”

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NEWS | SPORTS | ENTERTAINMENT | PHOTOS

Following high court’s flawed ruling, next fight is religious liberty By Ken Paxton Attorney General

oday’s ruling by five Justices of the U.S. Supreme Court marks a radical departure from countless generations of societal law and tradition. The impact of this opinion on our society and the familial fabric of our nation will be profound. Far from a victory for anyone, this is instead a dilution of marriage as a societal institution. What is most disturbing is the extent to which this opinion is yet another assault on the actual text of the U.S. Constitution and the rule of law itself. Just as Roe v. Wade ripped from the hands of the American people the issue of life and placed it in the judge-made ‘penumbras’ of the Constitution, so has this opinion made clear that our governing document – the protector of our liberties through representative government – can be molded to mean anything by unelected judges. But no court, no law, no rule, and no words will change the simple truth that marriage is the union of one man and one woman. Nothing will change the importance of a mother and a father to the raising of a child. And nothing will change our collective resolve that all Americans should be able to exercise their faith in their daily lives without infringement and harassment. We start by recognizing the primacy and importance of our first freedom – reli-

gious liberty. The truth is that the debate over the issue of marriage has increasingly devolved into personal and economic aggression against people of faith who have sought to live their lives consistent with their sincerely-held religious beliefs about marriage. In numerous incidents trumpeted and celebrated by a sympathetic media, progressives advocating the anti-traditional marriage agenda have used this issue to publicly mock, deride, and intimidate devout individuals for daring to believe differently than they do. This ruling will likely only embolden those who seek to punish people who take personal, moral stands based upon their conscience and the teachings of their religion. It is not acceptable that people of faith be exposed to such abuse. The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution protects our religious liberty and shields people of faith from such persecution, but those aspects of its protections have been denigrated by radicals, echoed by the media and an increasingly-activist judiciary. Consistent with existing federal and state Religious Freedom Restoration Acts that should already protect religious liberty and prevent discrimination based on religion, we must work to ensure that the guarantees of the First Amendment, protecting freedom of religion, and its corollary freedom of conscience, are secure for all Americans.

Our guiding principle should be to protect people who want to live, work and raise their families in accordance with their religious faith. We should ensure that people and businesses are not discriminated against by state and local governments based on a person’s religious beliefs, including discrimination against people of faith in the distribution of grants, licenses, certification or accreditation; we should prevent harassing lawsuits against people of faith, their businesses and religious organizations; we should protect non-profits and churches from state and local taxes if the federal government penalizes them by removing their 501(c)(3) status; and we should protect religious adoption and foster care organizations and the children and families they serve. Shortly, my office will be addressing questions about the religious liberties of clerks of court and justices of the peace. Displays of hate and intolerance against people of faith should be denounced by all people of good will and spark concern among anyone who believes in religious liberty and freedom for all. Despite this decision, I still have faith in America and the American people. We must be vigilant about our freedom and must use the democratic process to make sure America lives up to its promise as a land of freedom, religious tolerance and hope.

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

TEXAS PRESS ASSOCIATION

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

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Mission museum promotes week of art

By Lea Victoria Juarez ithout lifting up their pencils or looking away from their subject, children at the Mission Historical Museum drew portraits of their peers to warm up for their week of art. Programs Coordinator Lisa Price had the class do a number of drawing exercises for the museum’s Artifact week. The four-day theme is the final part of the museum’s summer history program, teaching attendees about their Mission roots. The past weeks consisted of Native American Days, Pioneer Days and Ranching Days, but the final week was dedicated to art. Attendees began with drawing lines, then drawing shapes separately and then connecting them together. Price explained that she was trying to help the kids see that drawing was a matter of combining shapes. “It’s okay if you mess up,” she said. “It doesn’t have to be perfect.” The first day the students had a number of items from

ABOVE: Angelo Rivas, 5, draws his brother Alonzo, 8, for an art exercise for the Mission Historical Museums Artifact week. The kids sketched still-life art and worked on a larger group piece honoring Mission history. RIGHT: Program Coordinator Lisa Price pairs up with an attendee for a lesson on portrait drawing during the week of art. Photos by Lea Victoria Juarez

the museum that they could draw for a still-life piece, including a King Citrus crown, a typewriter, a letterman sweater and a Tom Landry statue. The Rivas brothers have attended the program each week and look forward to the new activities they bring, according to their mother Cynthia Rivas. “They learned a lot and it’s interesting to them because these last three weeks have

been focused on this area,” she said. “They learned a lot about Mission, our culture, historical figures that have been born here or were in the area. It interests them because they can relate to it.” Her three boys Angelo, Alonzo and Aaron are ages 5 and 8, and each learn differently. Angelo, the youngest, is outgoing and talkative. The twins Alonzo and Aaron prefer to watch and listen but Aaron is more reserved, Cyn-

LGBTQ fight not over in Texas By Lea Victoria Juarez ven though the Supreme Court voted in favor of marriage equality June 26, the fight is not over, particularly in Texas. “It’s something that’s been fought for through generations. However, I think that surrounding LGBT justice around just marriage is a very narrow-minded way of seeing justice for various sexual and gender identities,” said Dani Marrero, a Mission resident and LGBTQ member. When the news broke, Hidalgo County began administering marriage licenses to the couples almost immediately. Chief Deputy Annette Muñiz said the County Clerk’s Office issued 23 same-sex licenses on Friday

alone, and 10 more Monday. But while many across the country rejoiced with parades and impromptu wedding plans, not everyone celebrated the historic ruling. Bishop Daniel Flores said the Church will continue to teach the truth about marriage, emphasizing it is the “basis for the conceiving and raising of children.” Flores stated he expects the government will also respect the right to freedom of religion. “Today's Supreme Court decision does not change the Church's teaching on marriage as a natural institution in human society,” Flores said in a blog post. “Nor does it affect our teaching that this unique human bond between a man and a woman was raised by the Lord Jesus to the level of a sacrament.” Marrero referenced Texas

thia said. When they’re at home, she said can’t get them to sit still inside for long, much less do crafts with her, but at the museum they’re entertained with the activities. “They go home and I Iisten to them retell the stories that they heard here, and they actually remember it,” she said. “I know that if I took them to a daycare, chances are they will not learn a lot

of the things that they learned here or they will not experience the things they experience here.” The main project for Artifact week is for the children to complete a large group piece. Each child will be responsible for a part of a whole picture and the end result will be on display at the museum. Rivas said that her sons have always been interested in ranching, cowboys and the

outdoors, but having them involved in art is a nice change of pace. “They’re boys. A lot of times they they’re not interested in that sort of thing,” Rivas said. “I don’t really remember art and artists being something that we learned a lot of at their age. Hopefully this is something that can pique their interests so that they can continue learning about it.”

MEDC’s Enginuity program to boost local workforce

Attorney General Ken Paxton, who issued an opinion stating that county clerks can exercise their religious freedom by refusing to issue same-sex marriage licenses. Paxton’s opinion stated “the right to same-sex marriage can and should peaceably coexist with longstanding constitutional and statutory rights, including the rights to free exercise of religion and freedom of speech.” It also states the government cannot force justices of the peace and judges to perform same-sex wedding ceremonies. “Just because I can go get married in the court, it doesn’t mean that I might not be a victim of a hate crime,” Marrero said. “There’s no nondiscrimination ordinanc-

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he Mission Economic Development Corporation board unanimously approved the creation of Enginuity, an initiative that connects local employer, Royal Technologies, with local youth in an effort to expose students to opportunities in engineering, design and manufacturing careers in the Rio Grande Valley. The goal is to create a pipeline of future engineers and Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) entrepreneurs that will help strengthen the manufacturing base that already exists in the Mission area. In March 2015, Jim Vander Kolk, President of Royal Technologies Corporation, reached out to Mission EDC and started dis-

cussions on a collaboration to help create an engineering program that will not only provide a pipeline of talented individuals for Royal Technologies but will also have a long term impact in the community. “If a program like this would have existed 15 years ago when I first came to the RGV, the students would be getting ready to graduate and enter the workforce with a good foundation. Royal Technologies’ participation in this program is a testament to our long-term plans for the region. We’re not here for a short run, we plan to grow with the community and look forward to these young engineers joining our manufacturing family in 10 to 15 years,” stated Trung Nguyen,

Royal Technologies’ plant manager. Mission EDC, having launched a computer programming initiative in the fall of 2014, knew exactly who to turn to when launching Enginuity. Sylvan Learning of the Rio Grande Valley recently embarked on a STEM-focused initiative and has partnered with Mission EDC and Royal Technologies. “Many assume that with the rapid evolution and increased use of technology, raising the level of STEM education in a community is effortless,” said Susan Valverde, executive director of Sylvan RGV. “It only seems that way when a com-

See ENGINUITY 10

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lifestyle

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NEWS | SPORTS | ENTERTAINMENT | PHOTOS

Events Calendar

Jul y 9 – MOSTHistory: Summer Nights at the Museum will be held. The museum’s signature exhibition, Rio Grande Legacy, will come to life section by section, providing different adventures through time. Event will include a puppet show, interactive history, hands-on activities, and multiple chances to win prizes. MOSTHistory is located at 200 N. Closner in Edinburg. For more information, Call (956) 383-6911. Jul y 9 – Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park will hold their Nature Walk from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Regularly scheduled programs are free with paid admission. Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park is located on 2800 South Bentsen Palm Drive in Mission or visit www.theworldbirdingcenter.com for more information. Jul y 10 – Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park will hold their Friday on Foot from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Regularly scheduled programs are free with paid admission. Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park is located on 2800 South Bentsen Palm Drive in Mission or visit www.theworldbirdingcenter.com for more information. Jul y 11 – Aglow International Mission Spanish Aglow will hold their monthly meeting at Taco Ole Restaurant on 2316 N. Conway from 4 to 6 p.m. Afternoon Merienda will be served. The meeting will be a continuation on the teaching power of prayer and this session will include intersession by the leadership team. For more information, call Liza Rayo at 776-8505, Delia Bazan at 240-5813 or Connie Escamilla at 279-7887. Jul y 11 – Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park will hold a Creatures of the Night activity from 8 to 10 p.m. Regularly scheduled programs are free with paid admission. Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park is located on 2800 South Bentsen Palm Drive in Mission or visit www.theworldbirdingcenter.com for more information. Jul y 11 – Palm View Community Center will host a Sidewalk Chalk Art Contest from 6 to 8 p.m. Get your own sidewalk block and let your imagination run wild. All ages and skill levels are welcome. Categories and age division apply. Each sidewalk block is $3. The community center is located at 3401 Jorden Ave. in McAllen. Call (956) 6813360 for more information. Jul y 11-12 – Estero Llano Grande will have their Camping with a Ranger, overnight camping trip from families. The event is limited for up to 10 families. The park will supply all camping gear – tents, lanterns, sleeping pads, cooking stoves and more. Cabins will be offered to first five families. All you need to bring is your sleeping bag, food and personal items. Cost is $65 per family of six. Park is located at 154A Lakeview Drive in Weslaco. For more information, call (956) 565-3919. Jul y 12 – Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park will hold their Bentsen Bird Walk from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Regularly scheduled programs are free with paid admission. Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park is located on 2800 South Bentsen Palm Drive in Mission or visit www.theworldbirdingcenter.com for more information. Jul y 12 – Mission Skeet and Trap Club will hold a 3D Archery Tournament for men, women, youth, cubs and minicubs. Targets include deer, feral hog, javelina, coyote, bear, turkey and raccoon. Trophies will be awarded. For more information and pricing, call Reyes L. Cortez at (956) 4246528 or Jeff Simpson, Manager, at (956) 583-5996 during office hours. To see the complete Events Calendar for the coming weeks, go to www.ptrgv.com.

Free Society News Announcements

Eco-Explorers Nature Camp at EWBC

he Edinburg Scenic Wetlands and World Birding Center (EWBC) has a special camp for kids interested in nature. They can become Eco Explorers during a four-day camp that will teach them about wetlands, habitat,

Attorney Joe Reyna and his team enjoying Drive Out Hunger. Don’t miss it this year, July 11, 2015. Registration and sponsorship opportunities for Drive Out Hunger are now available at www.foodbankrgv.com. Courtesy photo

15th Birthday

Drive Out Hunger early bird registration Extended to July 7

he Drive Out Hunger Golf Tournament is almost here. Three-person teams can sign up for the Drive Out Hunger Golf Tournament by visiting www. foodbankrgv.com. The tournament benefiting the Food Bank RGV will be held July 11, 2015 at the Monte Cristo Golf and Country Club, Edinburg. The shotgun start will be at 8 a.m., Saturday, July 11,

with registration beginning at 6:30 a.m. There will be prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place teams. There will also be a prize for Hole in One and Closest to the Pin. Mulligans will also be sold. For more information, contact Philip Farias, manager of corporate engagement and events, (956) 904-4513 or e-mail pfarias@foodbankrgv.com.

Emily Gonzalez was honored by her parents, Emilia and Erika Meza, on the occasion of her 15th birthday on May 31 with a reception at El Recuerdo Qinta in Palmview. She is a 10th grader. Austin Studio

animals and more through hands-on activities, explorations, games, and crafts. This camp is designed to inspire curiosity and creativity and give children a chance to interact with nature. Participants will enjoy a trip to the National Butterfly Center for an in-depth discovery of nature in other parts of the Rio Grande Valley. The Eco-Explorers Nature Camp is for children ages six to nine. It will run July 7 through July 10 from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The fee is $36 for Scenic Wetlands members and $44 for non-members. Snacks are provided, though participants will need to bring a sack lunch. Space is limited so call ahead to register no later than one week prior to the start of camp. The Edinburg Scenic Wetlands and World Birding Center is located at 714 S. Raul Longoria (in the Edinburg Municipal Park) in Edinburg, Texas. For information call (956) 381-9922 or visit online at www.edinburgwbc.org.

Food Bank RGV preps over 600 food bags for flood victims

he Food Bank RGV is coordinating disaster relief efforts with Hidalgo County and other regional organizations to bring food to families affected by recent flooding. More than 600 bags containing assorted canned and packaged food items have been made and/ or delivered to flood victims in and around the Edinburg area. The bags average 40 pounds and are supplemented with bottled water. The mesh bags were donated by various produce companies.

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.

The effort will continue as needed but in the meantime, volunteers and monetary donations are needed to keep up with the demand. Adults over the age of 18 may call (956) 682-8101 option 5 to volunteer. Donations can be made at www.foodbankrgv.com. In past emergencies, the Food Bank RGV has doubled and quadrupled the amount of food distributed in order to feed populations affected by flooding and storms, often surpassing millions of pounds. For more information, please contact Omar I. Rodriguez, manager of communications and advocacy, at (956) 904-4514 or omarir@ foodbankrgv.com.

UTPA

of which she could not do while married to Kip) Cass hops a bus to Niagara Falls and, along the way, crosses paths with a cast of characters who make this play unique, humorous and full of surprises. Wonder of the World is set to run 7:30 p.m. July 9-11, with a final matinee curtain at 2 p.m. July 12. Students, faculty and staff are encouraged to attend Pan Am Night, which allows open

seating to all attendees with a valid UTPA ID, on July 8 at 7:30 p.m. Ticket prices are reserves seating, $12; general admission, $8; Non-UTPA students with school ID, $3; and UTPA students, faculty and staff are free admission with valid UTPA ID, plus one free guest. Both comedies are rated PG 13 and contain language and situations that might be offensive to some audience members. No children below

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third grade will be admitted. The box office opens one hour prior to each performance. Both productions will be presented at the Albert L. Jeffers Theatre, Arts & Humanities Building (ARHU) on the west side of campus at the corner of University Drive and Sugar Road. For reservations, special accommodations or more information, call the University Theatre Box Office at (956) 665-3581.

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Hidalgo County adds up flooding costs McAllen Minutes BY

DAVIS RANKIN, FUTURO MCALLEN

Turn out the lights, top of the world and lobbyist renewed

n Monday, the light went out on the idea of an event center in a neighborhood in west McAllen. By a vote of 4 to 2, and after vigorous opposition from neighbors, McAllen city commissioners voted NOT to allow an event center named Rancho Quinta Luz on a wooded 3 1/4 acres at 4300 Pecan Blvd., just east of Bentsen Road. Neighbors in the area gathered signatures opposing the center, and told commissioners the noise from events and late night music bother them. Commissioners at the start of the year turned down the same request from owner Sergio Licon and he turned around right away and started the process to get city permission. Top of the Tower How long has the top floor of the Chase Bank Tower been unused as a place for eating and drinking and entertaining? That is about to end because commissioners gave permission to Erica Castillo to use the 17th floor as an events center. City paperwork says the space is a smidge over 6,000 square feet and it will operate 8 am-2 am, seven days a week. Once again, someone will get to enjoy that view! The Tower Club occupied that space for years following the erection of the building in 1980. This and that Commissioners completed the annexation of a sliver of land running north from Monte Cristo Road, along

Wallace Road, to FM 490 (which runs east-west north of the Edinburg airport to the east of Highway 281), miles from McAllen's central city. FM 490 is projected to be part of a toll road loop in the county and commissioners want to get property and sales tax revenues from any development along there. Under state law, the city can now control development within five miles of the city limits. North 10th Street from Trenton north is going to be medianed. The commission agreed to split with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) the cost of installing medians all the way to State Highway 107. According to a memo to commissioners, the state will put in $1,218,000 and McAllen is responsible for the balance of cost, which is estimated at $507,000 for a total of $1,725,000. A bridge in the wrong place Oopsie! The pedestrian bridge on the Bicentennial hike and bike trail not far north of Nolana Ave. had to be moved when, well, let's allow City Engineer Yvette Barrera to tell it, quoting from a memo to commissioners: On October 13, 2014 City Commission authorized contract to Foremost Paving Inc. for installation of a single bridge in the amount of $149,190. Upon locating structure in the field, easements and ownership revelations were made. In an effort to avoid additional costs and delays, the proposed structure was relocated further to south

location. As Barrera told commissioners, turns out the bridge was on Water District #3 easement, so they moved it. The bridge crosses the drain ditch from west to east so people can avoid the railroad tracks that cross east-towest just north of there. This area is west and south of Bill Schupp park. Anyway, the move meant an extra $10,625 to Foremost and $4,268.87 to the power company for moving three poles. The project is still way under budget. Commissioner Trey Pebley recused himself. He works for Foremost. One more time McAllen's Austin lobbyist impressed 'em at city hall and they were rehired for another year at a rate of $6,500/ month ($78k/year) plus travel expenses. The contract dates from June 1 and ends May 31, 2016. City Manager Roy Rodriguez reported that McGuireWoods Consulting, LLC "did a good job in the (just ended) legislative session. They're ready to give a report on the session. I think the services they provided were exceptional." Commissioner Trey Pebley joined the praise saying he'd met with them on an item and they "did a really, really good job" showing a good command of the issues." As a point of interest, McGuireWoods Consulting is a subsidiary of the McGuireWoods law firm, which has 21 offices in the US and abroad, including one in Austin.

Pictured from left are Eric Fernandez, McAllen Grainger Company onsite service consultant; Jody Nelsen, RGV Food Bank Board president; Alfredo Cuellar, McAllen Grainger Company manager; Ernesto “Ernie” Rodriguez Jr., senior development officer for the Division of University Advancement; and Michael Banegas, associate dean for Student Support at The University of Texas – Pan American. Courtesy photo

Grainger Foundation supports UTRGV’s food pantry

he University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Food Pantry recently accepted a $5,000 donation from The Grainger Foundation to contribute to the university’s efforts to provide food items to students experiencing hunger or food insecurity. Grainger, an independent, private foundation based in Illinois, was established by William W. Grainger, founder of the industrial supplies provider W.W. Grainger Inc. “We are proud to recommend the programs offered by the UTRGV Student Food Pantry,” said Alfredo Cuellar, branch manager of W.W. Grainger Inc.’s McAllen location who suggested UTRGV’s food pantry for the donation. “We understand the need for assisting students in need at UTRGV by providing food supplements to those who have been impacted by financial problems or conditions and subsequently are experiencing difficulty meeting their basic need of adequate nutrition.” Michael Banegas, associate dean for Student Support at The University of Texas – Pan American, said the food pantry coincides with the university’s values in supporting student retention. “This grant will be used for supplying food for the enrolled students in summer and fall,” Banegas said. “We support the safety, health and wellbeing of university students, who are a primary

concern of UTRGV.” The food pantry, launched last fall at UTPA, provides non-perishable food items once a week to currently enrolled students in need of assistance. The pantry, under the sponsorship of the Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley, is located in Room 104 of the University Center and is open from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays and from 3

p.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays. This is the second university-run food pantry in The University of Texas System; the first is at The University of Texas at Dallas. For more information about the UTRGV Food Pantry, contact Jennifer Cerda, food pantry coordinator, at jcerda1@utpa.edu or visit the website at www.utpa. edu/foodpantry.

idalgo County officials, working with FEMA, have calculated the preliminary estimated cost the county has incurred due to the rain and flooding that began in early May. According to the Budget Department, from May 4 to June 19, the county has used more than $9.2 million in resources plus $1 million in expenditures for a grand total of more than $10.2 million. The estimated cost of the resources utilized and work performed from June 19 to present are being tabulated

and are not available at this time. These estimated totals include several categories of the work performed by county crews such as clearing debris from right of ways, rescuing residents from their homes and damages to roads. The expenditures incurred include equipment utilized, maintenance to vehicles and pumps, and equipment and supplies needed for personnel. Also, the FEMA Disaster Recovery Center is moving to a larger building. Starting Wednesday, July 1, the center

will be at the UTPA CESS Building at 1407 E. Freddy Gonzalez Room 300 in Edinburg (off the U.S. 281 frontage). The more spacious location will allow FEMA, SBA and local and state non-profit organizations to properly assist all residents in need of help. The new site will maintain the same hours of operation. However, the center will be closed from Friday, July 3 to Sunday, July 5 for the Independence Day holiday. It will re-open on Monday, July 6.

Mission CISD football ticket sales to begin Aug. 10

ission Consolidated Independent School District is offering all 2014 season football ticket holders the opportunity to renew the same seats for the 2015 football season. Season ticket holders from last year may go by the Mission CISD Athletic Office located at the Central Office Building (1201 Bryce Drive, Mission) to purchase season tickets beginning Monday, Aug. 10, through Friday Aug. 14. Season tickets not renewed by Aug. 14 will become available to the general public to purchase. The general public will

be able to purchase season tickets beginning on Monday, Aug. 17 through Friday, Aug. 21. There will be no season tickets sold after Friday, Aug. 21. Ticket prices are $7 per seat. Mission High School will have four home games ($28 total price) and Veterans Memorial High School will have five home games ($35 total price). Hours for these ticket sales are from 8 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday during the sales periods. Once the season begins, tickets will be sold Tuesday

through Thursday from 8 a.m. to noon p.m. and 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. On Friday or game days, ticket sales will be limited to 8 a.m. to noon. For more information please call Sandy Palacios at 956-323-5683, or visit the Athletic Department website at, http://www.mcisd. net/apps/pages/index.jsp?uREC_ID=217909&type=d. Game schedules are also available through the Athletic Department website. There will be no exchanges or refunds once the tickets have been purchased.

Darling to serve as LRGVDC president

cAllen Mayor Jim Darling will serve a one-year term as president of the Lower Rio Grande Valley Development Council, the State of Texas’ council of governments and regional planning group for the deep South Texas area. As president of the Lower Rio Grande Development Council, Darling will head board of directors that includes mayors, city and county elected officials and others. The group meets once a month in Weslaco and takes on a variety of issues such as transportation and mass transit, emergency communications, housing assistance,

law enforcement and health issues among many others. All the issues before the president and the board are looked at through a regional lens, and challenges seek regional solutions. And Darling knows the LRGVDC well having served as its legal counsel for some time. Darling said part of his approach to leading McAllen has been to be regional and that will help him as the organization’s new leader (Darling has served on LRGVDC board since elected as mayor in 2013). He looks forward to the challenge. “I have enjoyed my relationship with the LRGVDC

over years, and I think my experience gives me a unique perspective to my new role as president,” said Darling. “The LRGVDC and staff serve an important role to our communities in the Rio Grande Valley. I am proud to be part of the team.” The LRGVDC meets monthly at the offices of the Hidalgo County Metropolitan Planning Organization. The monthly meetings cover a variety of issues. Former presidents include Harlingen Mayor Chris Boswell, La Feria Mayor Steve Brewer and many others. LRGVDC Executive Director is Kenneth Jones.

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ENGINUITY munity takes the time to plan, stays focused and invests in the appropriate resources. We applaud Royal Technologies and Mission EDC for having the foresight and leading the region in this effort, and we are proud to be a part of it.” The U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates the demand for professionals in engineering disciplines to continue to grow, with the addition of approximately 250,000 engineering positions over the next 10 years. Furthermore, college graduates with engineering degrees can expect relatively higher wages and low unemployment rates when compared to non-engineering peers. “Investing in people is something that both Mission EDC and Royal Technologies strongly believe in. We know that economic devel-

LJISD

don’t include a request by board members to increase the pay for teachers who have been with the district 20 years or longer. Ochoa said she wanted to see a break down of increases, where each year veteran teachers see a boost in pay. She said she also wanted the increases to cover nurses and librarians as well. Benavides said the district is analyzing the numbers and how they affect the budget. She also said they’re looking into using that method to retain teachers, researching when the school district usually loses its teachers. On the budget shortfall, Ochoa said one way to save money is to cut costs on events held at Mario’s Banquet and Conference Center. Instead, she said, those events could be held at central office. Also, she once worked in a school district that didn’t give

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opment is not just about recruiting companies but creating a foundation of talented individuals that are prepared to address the challenges of the future. Jim is a visionary and an excellent corporate citizen. His leadership will help take the City of Mission to the next level,” stated David Deanda, Mission EDC Board Chair. Enginuity is open and free to the residents of Mission and will consist of multiple modules per year. Each module will be taught in groups according to age brackets. Participants will be required to attend small workshops to help them learn more about engineering. The application forms will be open beginning July 1. For more information, visit www.community. engineering or contact Mission EDC at (956) 585-0040 or Sylvan Learning at (956) 682-9800. from pg 3

central administration staff raises one year to balance the budget. Board President Johnn Alaniz pointed out that $60 million is 20 percent of the budget for the district’s general fund. “That’s not trimming the fat. That’s like taking a whole arm off,” he said. “We knew eventually we were going to get to this point because of everything we’ve been doing for our employees and the community. We need to think a little bit outside the box.”

LGBTQ

es in the city. It doesn’t mean that I won’t be discriminated in the workplace, in my city.” But now that members of the LGBTQ community have legal recognition, the Mission native said it’s time turn to more “critical” discussion on various sexual and romantic

Zaffirini passes 102 bills during 2015 legislative session, breaking record

en. Judith Zaffirini, D-Laredo, passed 102 bills during the 2015 legislative session, breaking her personal record and passing more bills during the session than any other legislator. As the Senate's top bill passer, she passed 44 Senate bills and 58 House bills, surpassing by 19 the next most productive senator and bringing her total bills passed to 897.   "This session we enjoyed many productive opportunities to make a positive difference for the families of Senate District 21 and our

great state," she said. "We achieved legislative success in a wide array of policy areas, including not only education and health and human services, but also public safety, natural resources, justice and the judiciary, veterans and local issues."   "As members of the minority party, Democrats have to work harder to pass legislation and to have an impact on major issues, and we did." Zaffirini added. "We can succeed only with strong bipartisan support. Those who considered this impossible were

Skeet and Trap Club to hold 3D Archery Tournament

he Mission Skeet and Trap Club will host a 3D archery tournament in Mission on July 12, Sunday, at 8:30 am. The tournament will consist of 15 Rinehart 3D animal targets. Targets include deer, feral hog, javelina, coyote, bear, turkey, and raccoon. The tournament will host men, women, youth, cubs, and mini-cubs. Awards will be made for compound and traditional archery equipment. Fees for the tournament are members/adults is $10; nonmember/adult is $15; youth member/nonmember thru age 12 is $5;

youth member/nonmember ages 13 thru 17 is $10. Trophies will be awarded to first place winners and medals will be awarded to second and third place. The Club holds 3D archery shoots once a month throughout the year and the public is invited. The 3D Shoot will be held at the Mission Skeet & Trap Club facilities located on Conway Avenue, about ½ mile south of Expressway 83. For more information, call Reyes L. Cortez at (956) 424-6528 or Jeff Simpson, Manager, at (956) 583-5996 during office hours.

identities. With that in mind, she and five other Valleyite LGBTQ members have developed a conference called Aqui Estamos. “We wanted to create a space, even if it was just for a day, to have for our community to share their experiences

and for others to learn from these experiences,” 21-yearold Marrero said. Co-coordinator Erika Galindo said the Valley is a unique place to be for an LGBT member because of the blended Mexican-American cultures. Galindo grew up

wrong.”   Zaffirini passed legislation in a wide variety of areas, including some new ones. Her legislative victories this session include passing bills increasing access to justice for Texans who cannot afford to hire attorneys, improving training and transparency for higher education governing boards, addressing cargo and oil and gas theft, facilitating organ donation, protecting persons with disabilities from abuse and neglect and reversing the indefensible practice of requiring parents to relinquish their parental rights be-

fore securing mental health services for their children.   She also passed nine bills to address corruption, abuse, and cronyism in Texas' system for appointing attorneys and guardians ad litem. Not all of Senator Zaffirini's 2015 legislation passed this session. Another fourteen were passed by the Senate, but died in the House of Representatives. Her biggest disappointment was falling one vote short of passing legislation allowing Texas to join the 46 other states that prohibit texting while driving.

Darling to serve as LRGVDC president

in a Catholic family in Mission. She said her family used heavy religious influence to keep her closeted. With the SCOTUS ruling on same-sex marriage, Galindo said that now is the time to educate on the diverse aspects of the LGBTQ community.

sit, emergency communications, housing assistance, law enforcement and health issues among many others. All the issues before the president and the board are looked at through a regional lens, and challenges seek regional solutions. And Darling knows the LRGVDC well having served as its legal counsel for some time. Darling said part of his approach to leading McAllen has been to be regional and that will help him as the organization’s new leader (Darling has served on LRGVDC board since elected as mayor in 2013). He looks forward to the challenge. “I have enjoyed my relationship with the LRGVDC over years, and I think my experience gives me a unique perspective to my new role as president,” said Darling. “The LRGVDC and staff

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oin Bentsen-RGV State Park on Saturday, July 18 from 8-10 p.m., as they celebrate Moth Week with a special program and walk through their gardens. The evening will be devoted to one of the most diverse groups of species on earth as attendees discover the various moths that can be found at Bentsen-RGV State Park. National Moth Week celebrates the life cycles and habitats of moths. The entire family is encouraged to learn

about, observe, and document moths in their backyards, parks, and neighborhoods. National Moth Week is being held worldwide during the last full week of July. National Moth Week offers everyone a unique opportunity to become a Citizen Scientist and to contribute scientific data about moths. National Moth Week participants can help map moth distribution and provide needed information on these amazing creatures.

Maria Del Socorro Acosta MISSION - Maria Del Socorro Acosta, 77, died Thursday, Jun. 25, 2015, at her residence in Mission. Funeral services for Maria Del Socorro Acosta were held Saturday, June 27, 2015, at Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Mission. Burial followed at Laurel Hill Cemetery in Mission. Anne Marie Billy MISSION - Anne Marie Billy, 54, died Friday, June 26, 2015, at Solara Hospital in Edinburg. Amelia Canales BISHOP/MISSION Amelia Canales, 72, died Tuesday, June 23, 2015, at Rio Grande Regional Hospital in McAllen. Audrey Moore Castleman MISSION/PLANO - Au-

drey Moore Castleman, 85, died Wednesday, June 24, 2015, at Village Creek Place in Plano, Texas. Waneta Ewing MISSION - Waneta Ewing, 81, died Monday, June 29, 2015, at Mission Nursing and Rehabilitation Center of Mission. Octavio Flores MISSION - Octavio Flores, 72, died Wednesday, June 24, 2015, at Pax Villa Hospice of McAllen. Pedro Lopez MISSION - Pedro Lopez, 82, died Thursday June 25, 2015, at Mission Hospital. Ramon Rios MISSION - Ramon Rios, 65, died Wednesday, June 24, 2015, at Mission Regional Medical Center.

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 1101 Doherty • 585-1665

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

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

NORTH PALMVIEW APOSTOLIC CHURCH 7612 W. 6 Mile Ln.

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

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

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

Valley Land Fund still accepting entries for summer youth nature photo contest

he Valley Land Fund kicked off their youth Wildlife Photo Contest in June, with age categories from six to 18. Through the generous support provided by the Robert L. Townsend Endowment Fund, participants will have opportunities to win cash prizes. The free contest provides an opportunity for the youth of the Valley to explore the natural treasures of the Valley from June to July with the awards contest on August 13th at Quinta Mazatlan in McAllen. Director Debralee Rodriguez, Director of the Valley Land Fund shared that the end goal is for beginner to advanced youth photographers to share their vision of our natural heritage in the Rio Grande Valley. Scouts, school, camp, home and other youth are encouraged to submit photographs taken from Roma to South Padre Island, anywhere in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas. The age divisions are six to nine, 10-13 and 14-18. Youth are invited to submit photos in any or

Celebrate National Moth Week at Bentsen-RGV State Park

all of the categories including Birds and Mammals, All Other Wildlife, Waterscapes and Landscapes, Plant Life, Ranches and Farms, Dusk to Dawn (including Night Photography), and Digital Art. There will be many winners with cash prizes and more. All entrants will receive a free t-shirt. Youth are to submit their photographs online no later than July 31 at 5 p.m. Just visit www. valleylandfund.com, click on the red icon ‘Register & Submit Images’ and follow the instructions. Workshops will be held throughout the summer to help youth with “Photography Tips” from Ruth Hoyt, professional wildlife photographer. Register in advance for the $5 workshops at Quinta Mazatlan on Saturdays in July, ages six-12 from 10 a.m. to noon and ages 13-18 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Call 956-681-3370 or visit www.quintamazatlan. com for more information. The Youth Nature Photo Contest combines economics, art, education and conservation into a meaning-

ful event. The Valley Land Fund’s mission is to preserve, enhance and expand the native wildlife of the Rio Grande Valley. Get outdoors this summer and have fun with the camera.

Notices

ChurCh DireCtory BREAD OF LIFE CHURCH 2820 N. Conway Ave. • 581-1411 CHURCH OF THE GOOD SHEPHERD 2322 N. McColl. - McAllen 682-2092 CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS 5609 S 29th St. - McAllen 682-4881 CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS Missonaries • 580-2570 CHRISTIAN SCIENCE CHURCH 911 N. Main - McAllen 686-4241 CONWAY AVENUE BAPTIST CHURCH 2215 N. Conway • 585-2413 EL FARO BIBLE CHURCH 15 miles W. of Mission on Exp. 83 Sullivan City, TX • 585-5617 EL MESIAS UNITED METHODIST 209 E. 6th • 585-2334 FAITH BAPTIST CHURCH 3 miles N. Shary Rd. • 581-1465 FAITH FELLOWSHIP BIBLE CHURCH 1 mile N. Exp. 83 on Tom Gill Rd. 519-6311 FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 1302 Doherty • 585-1442 FIRST CHRISTIAN CHURCH 12th and Miller - Mission 585-7281 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1102 Ash St. • 585-4829 for worship schedule.

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

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

SAN CRISTOBAL MAGALLANES & COMPANIONS PARISH

3805 Plantation Grove Blvd., Ste. 5

Mission • 580-4551

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

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

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

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

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

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

TEMPLO EVANGELICO, M.B. CHURCH La Joya

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

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

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

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

MISSION AUTO ELECTRIC, INC. DBA

ER MAE EPQOU IW PMENT

Commercial Lawn Equipment “Since 1954”

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

KING, GUERRA, DAVIS & GARCIA ATTORNEYS AT LAW

DAVID H. GUERRA

DARRELL DAVIS

301 E. Tom Landry • Mission • 585-1622

IMPLEMENT COMPANY, INC. MISSION 585-1618

  

 



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

 

Throughout the year on Saturday nights, sign up for fun and exciting Creatures of the Night tours. Attendees need to bring drinking water, insect repellent, a camera, a flashlight and a thirst for adventure. Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park, World Birding Center is located on 2800 South Bentsen Palm Drive in Mission, TX. For more information, please call (956) 584-9156.

obituaries

Maria Cristina Hinojosa ALMVIEW – Maria Cristina Hinojosa passed away Friday, June 26, 2015, at the age of 91. She was born and raised in San Jose before making a home in Mission with her husband. She is survived by her children, Amador Requenez, Deacon Pedro Requenez, Jr., Margarito Requenez, Sr., Christina Garza, and Saul Eli Requenez; sister, Emma Benavidez; 14 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and five great-great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband, Pedro Re-

quenez, Sr.; he rparents, Pedro and Felipa Hinojosa; brothers, Oscar Hinojosa and Eliseo Hinojosa; a grandson, Saul Eli Requenez, Jr.; and a granddaughter, Victoria Sofia Requenez. A memorial service was held Monday, June 29, 2015 at St. John of the Fields Catholic Church in Mission. Interment followed at Valley Memorial Gardens in McAllen. You are invited to sign the online guest book at www. virgilwilsonmortuary.com Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Virgil Wilson Mortuary of Mission.

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DARLING

MAKEOVER from pg 10

from pg 1

serve an important role to our communities in the Rio Grande Valley. I am proud to be part of the team.” The LRGVDC meets monthly at the offices of the Hidalgo County Metropolitan Planning Organization. The monthly meetings cover a variety of issues. Former presidents include Harlingen Mayor Chris Boswell, La Feria Mayor Steve Brewer and many others. LRGVDC Executive Director is Kenneth Jones.

Girls Club does, we’re doing in a micro sense in our group,” the associate pastor said. “We’re kind of instilling leadership and giving the kids a chance to do something new that they haven’t done before.” With the exception of minor training from coordinators, the middle schoolers did most of the work during their stay, Portwood said. Portland native Eliana Dykehouse, 11, handled a power saw to cut and design the cabinets,

others hammered, sliced and used liquid nails during construction. Seventh-grader Kat Royer from Canyon Lake had never constructed or done any kind of work project like the one with U.M. ARMY. She called the experience life changing. “You see the beginning picture ... and you start working on it, and you see how much progress you’re making,” the 12-year-old said. “Even if those other people aren’t there, you see how happy it’s going to make them. It changes your life.”

theclassifieds buy • sell • trade • rent • hire

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

autos

09’ MALIBU LS, 25k mls, $8,000; 12’ Avenger, 64k mls, $6,800; 09’ G6, 74k mls, $4,800; 11’ Escape, 54k mls, $8,500, call 867-2216. Info: TX35212 to 56654.

farm&ranch

10 ACRE TRACT for sale La Homa and 9 1/2 mile. Owner will finance. Starting at $149,000. Call (956)867-4459 or (956)239-2491 (Spanish). MCCOOK ACRES III, 10 AC or more in McCook. All Utilities available, starting at $85,000 owner finance. Call (956)239-2491, (956)383-0868 or (956)369-7445.

forsale

BLACK TRON WHEEL chair carrier $200, portable air heat $200, Mobile Gardens 55+, several mobile homes, priced right, 956-532-8600.

TWO CEMETERY PLOTS for sale at Laurel Hill Cemetery in Mission, for information call 956342-4476.

garagesale

1513 BLAKE ST. Mission, Friday and Saturday, July 3rd and 4th, 8am, clothing, glassware, tools, and vintage old items.

helpwanted

IN NEED OF part time and full time help. Apply at MCM Sporting Goods Inc 1302 North Conway Mission, Tx., 956581-1632.

homes4sale

NEW HOME! 1808 Alex Drive Oaks- Cimarron, Mission, Tx. 4 bedroom, 3 baths, open con-

Mission Towing inC. 1515 w. 3 MiLe Rd. Mission, Texas 78573 (956) 585-8245 • Fax 581-6668 TdLR vsF LiC. no. 0551944

BENAVIDES from pg 1

of their personal and social development and reflects a successful student management philosophy,” the nomination form states. Benavides has worked to support personnel, creating the Staff Development Center to be used year-round for professional training sessions, according to the nomination form, and initiated a teacher mentor program, dubbed Project Amigo. According to the news release, honorees in the Su-

Personal classified rate: $7 for 15 words

25¢ each additional word thereafter

Business classified rate: $15 for 15 words

25¢ each additional word thereafter

cept, porcelain tile throughout, custom built cabinets, all appliances, 2,334 sq. ft. Only $295,000! Call (956)271-2600 or (956)330-4122.

services

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

MODEL AMERICA F-150

956 Towing & ReCoveRy LLC 1515 w. 3 MiLe Rd. Mission, Texas 78573 (956) 585-8245 • Fax: 581-6668 TdLR vsF LiC. no. 0640957

VIN# BALANCE 40LUB21247P142354 $551.00 1FTRX02W34KC38262 $876.00

TOTAL CHARGES CANNOT BE COMPUTED UNTIL VEHICLE IS CLAIMED. STORAGE CHARGES WILL ACCRUE DAILY UNTIL VEHICLE IS RELEASED.

ORDINANCE NO. 4248 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MISSION, TEXAS AMENDING ORDINANCE NO.780 DESIGNATING PLACES WHERE BEER AND OTHER ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES MAY BE SOLD WITHIN THE CORPORATE LIMITS OF THE CITY OF MISSION TO INCLUDE THE PREMISES LOCATED AT 2707 E. GRIFFIN PARKWAY, LOT 12, ADAM’S CROSSING SUBD. READ, CONSIDERED AND PASSED, this the 22nd day of June, 2015. Norberto Salinas, Mayor ATTEST: Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

states the news release. “The La Joya ISD community should be extremely proud of Dr. Benavides for receiving this honor; it is recognition not only for Dr. Benavides as the district’s educational leader, but for the entirety of the La Joya community,” said Cornelio Gonzalez, executive director of the Region One Education Service Center, in the news release. “Dr. Benavides is a model educational leader who is worthy of this recognition and will represent our region well.”

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.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY ADVERTISING SALES REPRESENTATIVE Well-established newspaper is now hiring advertising sales representatives. Excellent work hours – no nights or weekends. Excellent earning potential. Competitive pay: base salary plus commission. Great opportunity to take over existing territory with established clients, plus cultivate new business. Prior ad sales experience much preferred. The right candidate will have excellent lead generation, phone communication, cold calling and organizational skills. Must have excellent command of English including speaking, writing and spelling. Email resume to: resume.email1987@gmail.com or call 956-580-7800 to apply.

PURSUANT TO THE PROVISION CONTAINED IN RULE 85.703. SUBCHAPTER F, FROM CHAPTER 85, PART 4 OF TITLE 16 IN THE TEXAS ADMINISTRATIVE CODE, WE ARE OFFICIALLY NOTIFYING YOU THAT THE BELOW DESCRIBED MOTOR VEHICLES HELD IN OUR CUSTODY ARE TO BE PICKED UP, REMOVED AND ALL CHARGES PAID WITHIN (45) DAYS OR THESE VEHICLES WILL BE DECLARED ABANDONED ACCORDING TO TEXAS LAW. YEAR MAKE 2007 PACE 2004 FORD

perintendent of the Year Program, under the Texas Association of School Boards, have shown “dedication to improving educational quality, ability to build effective employee relations, and commitment to public involvement in education.” Nominations from school boards were submitted to the Region One Education Service Center, and a committee of board members reviewed the nominees. Next, five finalists will be selected by a state committee and the Superintendent of the Year will be announced in October,

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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 TPWD PWD309A, WE ARE OFFICIALLY NOTIFIYING OF A PUBLIC SALE OF THE FOLLOWING VESSEL(S) LISTED BELOW. 2007 RANGER TX-9684AY SERIAL #RNG14081K607, 2006 YEAR BUILT

CAUSE NO. F-0597-15-H IN THE MATTER OF THE MARRIAGE OF VIRGINIA DUENAS VS. SERGIO IVAN SILVA THE STATE OF TEXAS SERGIO IVAN SILVA, REPONDENT(S), YOU HAVE BEEN SUED. “You may employ an attorney. If you or your attorney do not file a written answer with the clerk who isued this citation by 10:00 o’clock a.m. on the Monday next following the expiration of twenty (20) days after your were served this citation and petition, a default judgement may be taken against you.” The Amended petition of VIRGINIA DUENAS, Petitioner, was filed in the 389th District Court of Hidalgo County, Texas, on this the 5th day of June, 2015, against SERGIO IVAN SILVA, Respondent, case numbered F-0597-15-H and entitled IN THE MATTER OF THE MARRIAGE OF VIRGINIA DUENAS VS. SERGIO IVAN SILVA. The suit request that the Court grant a divorce and such other relief requested in the Petition. The Court has authority in this suit to enter any judgement or decree dissolving the marriage and providing for the division of property that will be binding on you. Said petition was filed in said court by VIRGINIA DUENA, PRO SE (956)445-3810, (956)240-3468 ISSUED AND GIVEN UNDER MY HAND AND SEAL of said Court at Edinburg, Texas this on this the 5th day of June, 2015.

THE SALE WILL PRECISELY TAKE PLACE AT 1515 W. 3 MILE RD., MISSION, TX 78573 ON SATURDAY JULY 4, 2015 AT 9:00 A.M. SALE TERMS ARE CASHIER’S CHECK OR CASH ONLY.

ORDINANCE NO. 4244

ORDINANCE NO. 4242

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MISSION, TEXAS GRANTING A 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) READ, CONSIDERED AND PASSED, this the 22nd day of June, 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 FOR THE SALE & ON-SITE CONSUMPTION OF BEER & WINE – RICK’S BAR & GRILL, 1604 E. GRIFFIN PARKWAY, LOT 11, STEWART VILLAGE PH. I SUBDIVISION READ, CONSIDERED AND PASSED, this the 22nd day of June, 2015. Norberto Salinas, Mayor ATTEST: Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

ORDINANCE NO. 4241

ORDINANCE NO. 4243

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 BEVERGES INOLVIDABLE BOHEMIA COCINA BAR, 2120 E. BUSINESS HIGHWAY 83, LOT 51, SHARYLAND ORCHARDS SUBDIVISION READ, CONSIDERED AND PASSED, this the 22nd day of June, 2015. Norberto Salinas, Mayor ATTEST: Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MISSION, TEXAS GRANTING A REZONING THE 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) READ, CONSIDERED AND PASSED, this the 22nd day of June, 2015. Norberto Salinas, Mayor ATTEST: Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

ORDINANCE NO. 4245

ORDINANCE NO. 4246

ORDINANCE NO. 4247

ORDINANCE NO. 4251

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MISSION, TEXAS GRANTING A REZONING A 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) READ, CONSIDERED AND PASSED, this the 22nd day of June, 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 AN EXISTING 14’ X 20’ PORTABLE BUILDING FOR AN AUTO SALES OFFICE, 1612 W. BUSINESS HIGHWAY 83, THE E. 75’ OF LOT 3, MISSION ACRES SUBDIVISION READ, CONSIDERED AND PASSED, this the 22nd day of June, 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 EXPAND THE RESTAURANT GREENS & LEMONS WHICH INCLUDES THE SALE & ON-SITE CONSUMPTION OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES, 2707 E. GRIFFIN PARKWAY, LOTS 11 & 12, ADAMS CROSSING SUBDIVISION READ, CONSIDERED AND PASSED, this the 22nd day of June, 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 FOR A DAYCARE IN A RESIDENTIAL ZONE, 2012 N. INSPIRATION ROAD, BEING A 1 ACRE TRACT OF LAND OUT OF LOT 24-1, WEST ADDITION TO SHARYLAND SUBDIVISION READ, CONSIDERED AND PASSED, this the 22nd day of June, 2015. Norberto Salinas, Mayor ATTEST: Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

ORDINANCE NO. 4249

ORDINANCE NO. 4250

ORDINANCE NO. 4252

ORDINANCE NO. 4253

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MISSION, TEXAS GRANTING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT TO PLACE A HOTDOG STAND AT MINI MAX #5 CONVENIENCE STORE, 100 N. MAYBERRY STREET, LOT 53, MAYBERRY PLAZA #2 SUBDIVISION READ, CONSIDERED AND PASSED, this the 22nd day of June, 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 PLACE DON FELIPE MOBILE FOOD UNIT, 2120 E. BUSINESS HIGHWAY 83, LOT 51, SHARYLAND ORCHARDS SUBDIVISION READ, CONSIDERED AND PASSED, this the 22nd day of June, 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 FOR FELIPE’S HOTDOG MOBILE FOOD UNIT, 3300 N. INSPIRATION ROAD, LOT 1, GOMEZ ESTATES SUBDIVISION READ, CONSIDERED AND PASSED, this the 22nd day of June, 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 JACKIE’S SNOCONE, 1511 N. CONWAY AVENUE, LOTS 9 & 10, BLOCK 243, MISSION ORIGINAL TOWNSITE SUBDIVISION READ, CONSIDERED AND PASSED, this the 22nd day of June, 2015. Norberto Salinas, Mayor ATTEST: Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

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