Friday, August 21, 2015
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PALMVIEW AIMS TO REGIONALIZE 9-1-1
By Julie Silva
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almview is heading the charge to regionalize 9-1-1 communications in western Hidalgo County. Law enforcement agencies must have a public safety answering point, or PSAP, in order to get calls to 9-1-1 directed to their local dispatch. Palmview one of only two entities west of Mission with the ability. The other law enforcement agency with a PSAP is the city of La Joya. In the past, Peñitas has requested permission to re-
ceive 9-1-1 calls, but the state of Texas no longer grants PSAPs to individual municipalities. “No matter how you look at it, services have to be regionalized,” said Palmview Mayor Jerry Perez. “Regionalization is key. I’ve always heard about it. There’s always been talk, back in the 2000s, but the political ego, they didn’t want to go there.” Because cities like Peñitas and Sullivan City can’t get their own individual PSAP, they’ve gone through the county dispatch for 9-11 services. Calls go into the sheriff’s dispatch, and then
they’re relayed to local officers. But Palmview Police Chief Chris Barrera said there’s a push on the eastern side of Hidalgo County to regionalize the 9-1-1 service through Weslaco. That hub would extend from east to west from San Juan to Mercedes and north and south from Elsa to Progresso. The project inspired Barrera to look into regionalizing the western side of the county. The Peñitas City Council agreed this week to move its services to Palmview, and Barrera said he’s approached Sullivan City and La Joya
Independent School District to partner with Palmview as well. Sullivan City was scheduled to make a decision on the project this week. City Manager Ramon Segovia said Palmview also reached out to the city of La Joya, but it would need to abandon its PSAP to go through Palmview’s hub. Cities across the state have similar systems, he said, noting San Antonio, Dallas, Houston and El Paso. “We want to take the lead and open the center here,” Barrera said. “It not only saves us money, but it opens up a lot of grant money.”
Barrera said it will also save Peñitas money. The city currently pays Hidalgo County $104,000 for the service. Palmview is charging $80,000. Segovia said Palmview sweetened the deal by negotiating with Pro-Medic, which provides ambulance service to the city and recently added a second ambulance stationed at the city’s fire substation. Pro-Medic agreed to provide ambulance service to Peñitas as well. And just recently, Palmview started providing fire service to the city. But Barrera emphasized
Palmview is not trying to take over Peñitas, stating, “We’re just here to provide a service to better respond to emergencies.” “They’re our neighbors; they’re our brothers, so why not?” Perez added. Palmview hopes to have everything in place to start the service by Oct. 1, servicing Peñitas and Sullivan City. To meet the new demand, Palmview will increase its number of dispatchers from five to nine. There will be two dispatchers during every shift during the week and
See PALMVIEW 11
RUBBLE RECONSTRUCTION
The 2014 Citizens Awards recipients were (L-R): Ruben Rodriguez, Mr. Mission; Joyce Geary, First Lady; Maritza Esqueda, Woman of the Year; and Carl Davis, Man of the Year.
Nominations open for Mission citizens awards
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he Progress Times announced today that nominations are now open for the annual citizens awards for Mr. Mission, First Lady of Mission, Man of the Year and Woman of the Year. Jim Brunson, publisher of the Progress Times, said nominations for the awards will be accepted until 4 p.m., Sept. 18 at the newspaper office. The annual awards will be presented at the Mission Chamber of Commerce banquet on Thursday, Oct. 15 at Mario’s Banquet & Conference Center in Mission. “We invite clubs, organizations and individuals to submit nominations for the citizens awards,” said Brunson. “These awards are designed to recognize and honor those who have worked to serve others and to make Mission a better place to live and raise our families. You know who works hardest in your organization. Send in your nominations and recognize those who have served Mission well.” While a resume for the nominee is helpful, it is not required. Just provide a description of the ways the nominee has served the community, along with your name and phone number. Nominations may be submitted in person at the Progress Times office at 1217 N. Conway or by mail to Citizens Awards, Progress
Times, P.O. Box 399, Mission, Texas 78573. Nomi¬nations may also be submitted by email to awards@ptrgv. com or by fax to 956-5852304. A pdf version of the nomination form, selection criteria, and a list of past recipients are available online at www.progresstimes.net. Man and Woman of Year Selection criteria for Man of the Year and Woman of the Year are as follows: To be recognized for supe¬rior service either for a signifi¬cant project or continuing broad service to the commu¬nity in the past two to 10 years. This may be for work with one organization or for work in several different areas or orga¬nizations. The combined dura¬tion of service should span no less than two years. May be for work in civic, church or com¬munity groups, if these labors have had significant impact on the citizens of Mission. Must be a resident of Mis¬sion or work in Mission. Service will be measured in terms of its impact on the entire community as a whole as well as to a particular orga¬nization. Mr. Mission and First Lady Selection criteria for Mr. Mission and First Lady of Mis¬sion are the following:
See CITIZENS AWARDS 8
FFA creates MHS memorabilia By Lea Victoria Juarez
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TOP: Mission High School’s FFA students take pieces from the demolished cafeteria and Eagle Café and turn them into MHS memorabilia to be auctioned off September 5. BOTTOM: Sophomore Rebekah Nolan carves a pen from the remains of Mission High School’s demolished cafeteria and Eagle Café. Each pen takes about 10 minutes to carve and she has made more than 30 for the auction. Progress Times photos by Lea Victoria Juarez
“We’re steeped in tradition. We love Mission High School; all of us bleed maroon”
--Coach Mindy De La Rosa
efore Mission High School’s now-demolished Eagle Cafe became the Eagle Cafe, it was the school library. ELA academic coach Mindy De La Rosa said her last memory in the then-library was watching the Twin Towers collapse in New York City on Sept. 11, 2001. Now, a gap sits in the middle of MHS where the cafe and cafeteria used to be. Demolition for the renovation project began in June, and the Eagles’ Future Farmer’s of America have big plans for the rubble and remains – MHS memorabilia. Parts of trees, doors, brick and fans have been recrafted into items such as pens, pen holders and various sizes of Mission High School’s iconic “M” logo. The items, most of which were made by the students, will be auctioned off at the FFA syndicate barbecue Sept. 5 at Mission Community Center. “I’m proud to be doing
this since all of my family members have graduated from Mission,” FFA Vice President Brianna Saenz said. “It feels kind of nice, since it was kind of hard for them to see it demolished, to save those things so they can buy them at the auction.” The items won’t have any set price when the auction begins, FFA Advisor Benito Garza said. There will be silent auction, live auction and door prizes for attendees, but not all the items will be renovated MHS products. The FFA chapter collected a limited amount of materials from the site. Since early July, the FFA students began their memorabilia projects, doing a few hours of work every day in their unairconditioned agriculture barn. The proceeds will go to the FFA chapter to help fund its end of the year banquet, and a portion of the money will go toward a teacher appreciation luncheon during National FFA
See FFA 8
INSIDE
Buckner readies students for fall
INDEX
Districts ready for new year
La Joya schools ready for fresh start
Volunteers helped 1,000 students in the Pueblo de Palmas area fit into a new pair of shoes and obtain a backpack full of supplies.
Teachers and staff around the area are getting motivated to head back to work as the fall semester begins next week.
Palmview High School hopes to capitalize on winning season, while La Joya Coyotes put hopes on experienced players.
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See story page 3
See story page 6
Entertainment | pg. 2
Lifestyle | pg. 6
Opinion | pg. 4
Sports | pg. 8
Obituaries | pg. 9
Classifieds | pg. 11
entertainment Rockets host Orlando Magic Oct. 11 at State Farm
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CALLEN – The Rio Grande Valley Vipers, the NBA Development League single-affiliate of the Houston Rockets, announced that the Rockets will return to the RGV for Rocket Launch 2015. Houston will host the Orlando Magic on Sunday,
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Oct. 11, at 7 p.m. at State Farm Arena. Tickets go on sale Monday, Aug. 24, and will be available at the Vipers Pro Shop in Uptown Plaza or at ticketmaster.com. “The Vipers are excited to host our fifth Rocket Launch to kick off the 2015-16 season,” Vipers president Bert
Garcia said. “Once again, we look forward to bringing NBA entertainment and the league’s brightest stars to the RGV when the Rockets and Magic hit the hardwood at State Farm Arena.” Houston finished the 2014-15 regular season at the top of the Southwest Divi-
sion with a 56-26 record and recorded a 1-4 record against the Warriors in the Western Conference Finals. Tickets for Rocket Launch 2015 start as low as $45. For more information, call the Vipers at 972-1144.
Center. The auditions will be held at the Moscow Ballet local host dance studio Laura Marie Dance Academy, 901 Travis #10 in Mission. Moscow Ballet's "Dance with Us" program, in its 23rd year, selects student dancers to perform ancillary roles of party children, mice, snowflakes, angels and more in
the time-honored holiday production. Student dancers must have at least one year of ballet training, dress in dance attire and may bring Pointe shoes. Audition director Mariia Skoruk will be in town for several days to lead the audition and to rehearse the selected student dancers. Register for the auditions
at www.nutcracker.com/ youth-auditions/sign-up-toaudition. For tickets for the December performance and more information, go to nutcracker.com or ticketmaster. com or by calling 800-7453000.
Moscow Ballet auditions set for Sept. 8
ERKSHIRES, MASS. – TheMoscow Ballet has announced open auditions on Tue, Sept. 8, at 6 p.m. for local student dancers, boys and girls, ages 7 to 16 years. Selected children will perform beside the professional company in the Great Russian Nutcracker on Wednesday, Dec. 30, at 7 p.m. at the McAllen Civic
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August 21, 2015
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Coming Attractions
August 22 • State Farm Arena in Hidalgo hosts Paramount’s Laser Spectacular, featuring the music of Pink Floyd. Doors open at 7 p.m., the show begins at 8 p.m. Ticket prices range from $15 to $45 and are available at ticketmaster. com or by calling 800745-3000. • The Randy Rogers Band is back in the Valley for a performance at the Boggus Ford Events Center. Located at 3000 N. Cage, Pharr, doors open at 7 p.m. The show is appropriate for all ages, and reserved seating is available. Tickets range $28 to $48 per person. Go to ticketmaster.com or call 800-745-3000 to purchase. August 30 Chayanne performs at State Farm Arena in Hidalgo at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6 p.m. Tickets prices start at $66.50 all the way to $172 per per-
son. Go to ticketmaster. com or call 800-745-3000 to reserve a seat. September 1 Deadline Season subscriptions and tickets are now on sale through Sept. 1 for Valley Symphony Orchestra and Chamber Orchestra 2015 season. Performances kick off Sept. 24 in a new venue at the Performing Arts Complex auditorium of the University of Texas Rio Grande. To reserve a spot, call the VSO Box Office at 661-1615. For more information, go to valleyorchestra.org or stop by the VSO Box Office located inside the first floor of the Chase Neuhaus Tower at 200 S. 10th St., Ste. 104 in McAllen. Group, senior and student discounts also are available. To see the complete Coming Attractions calendar, go to www.ptrgv. com
August 21, 2015
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SISD enters the 2015-2016 school year Bobby Villarreal appointed
county executive director
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By Lea Victoria Juarez haryland ISD teachers and staff began their school year reciting the following mantra in unison: “I make a difference every day. I change the world in my own way. I teach children and they teach me. I am their teacher and proud to be.” Motivational speaker and educator Danny Brassell visited Pioneer High School for SISD’s welcome back rally for teachers. He had the employees singing, dancing and telling one another how amazing they were as they head into the new school year. “They say anyone can teach and I completely agree,” Brassell said. “Anyone can teach, but it takes a lot of hard work to be a good teacher.” Intertwined with stories about his love for Oprah and his desire to become the next Jaime Escalante ¬– the educator from the biopic “Stand and Deliver” – Brassell gave the teachers 12 tips to use on a daily basis. From parental involvement to teachers allowing themselves some personal time, Brassell strode across the stage stressing
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Sharyland Independent School District teachers and staff cheer during a welcome back rally for the district’s employees. Progress Times photo by Lea Victoria Juarez
what makes a solid educator. “It ain’t easy being a teacher,” Brassell said. “My dad would be like ‘You know, teachers got it easy. They only work 180 days a year.’ Yeah, dad, but it’s hard time.” His tips stressed the importance of reading in the classroom, incorporating games into assignments and understanding that every student learns differently. Sharyland has incorporated a number of learning techniques in the classroom
to keep students engaged and interested in their work. Many of the techniques are technology-based, such as the social medium Edmodo, where students post assignments online, and the touchboard program School Box. Sharyland High School fashion and design teacher Alexandra Peña said what stood out to her the most about Brassell’s speech is allowing the students to teach the teachers something new. “We push our kids as
much as we can but sometimes other students will help teach your students,” Peña said. “You kind of just need to let go, have fun in the classroom and not go so by-thebook sometimes and kind of do things your own way.” Superintendent Robert O’Connor presented the district’s accolades from the previous school year, which includes a nationally recognized junior high, five cam-
See SISD TEACHERS 11
Students get new shoes for new year
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By Julie Silva
A Buckner Children and Family Services volunteer checks the shoe size of a young student at an event Saturday. Buckner gave out 1,000 pairs of new shoes. Progress Times photo by Julie Silva
en pairs of volunteers lined up Saturday, ready to clean the feet of impoverished children at Saenz Middle School in Peñitas before finding them a brand-new pair of shoes. The volunteers wore shirts emblazoned with, “Hope Shines Here.” Hosted by Buckner Children and Family Services, the event served 1,000 students in the Pueblo de Palmas area through the Shoes for Orphaned Souls program. Most students were identified through the Family Hope Center, which works with the families daily. Buckner has three events throughout the year to hand out shoes and supplies – one in the spring, another in the summer and the third in the winter to help children get through the colder months. Diego Silva, mission group coordinator with Buckner, prayed with the volun-
teers before they served the children, 250 at a time. Silva encouraged them to pray for the families as they went about their work. Students also got a backpack full of supplies before they walked out the door. “We’re offsetting the costs that they would have,” said Jorge Rodriguez, Buckner humanitarian aid coordinator. “We’re making an impact in the community, just saying that we’re here and we care.” The event is made possible through shoe drives held by churches and organizations across Texas, Rodriguez said, adding that Tom’s shoes also donated 1,500 pairs to Buckner this year. The shoes are taken to Buckner’s warehouse in Dallas and then distributed to their centers from there. Rodriguez said Buckner doesn’t want children worrying about their shoes during the first day of school because
See SHOES 7
DINBURG – Hidalgo County Judge Ramon Garcia announced this week the appointment of staff member Bobby Villarreal to a new position approved at the Aug. 4 commissioners court meeting. Villarreal, who previously served as the county’s economic development director, is credited with spearheading projects that have either resulted in significant savings or will generate millions in new revenue. The new position will allow him to focus on strategic planning and relationship-building as the county continues to grow and prosper, said Garcia. “Currently, we have two executive officers serving Hidalgo County. As County Judge I am the elected executive officer; the non-elected administrator is Commis-
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CORRECTION
story about the Texas Education Agency’s accountability ratings in last week’s edition incorrectly stated Mission Consolidated Independent School District’s plans for the Mission Options Academy. In fact, Mission CISD will change the academy from a stand-alone campus to a program.
sioners Court Executive Officer Valde Guerra, and he handles the day-to-day operations,” Garcia said. “Mr. Villarreal will handle the big-picture projects as well as serve as the liaison to the executive office, county commissioners, and to federal, state and local officials on my behalf.” As the seventh largest county in the state, Garcia said the new position, which pays $92,000 annually, is needed and that Villarreal is the right person for it. The county has approximately 3,800 employees working in 42 elected offices, 16 county departments, and in federally funded programs that are supervised by commissioners court such as Head Start, Community Service Agency, Urban County and Women, Infants and Children. “Mr. Villarreal has a proven track record of strategic projects that generate revenue and/or save the county money. We need more of that,” Garcia said. “The projects he spearheaded went above and beyond his duties as economic development director. The commissioners and I fully expect that he will help grow our county and that his work will more than pay for his salary.”
Reminiscing...
See COUNTY 8
30 Years Ago This Week
Wedgworth was back at Fontana’s helm Charles Wedgeworth, previous owner of the Fontana Hotel and Restaurant, again assumed ownership of the Mission business. He had sold the establishment in March 1981 to Bart Sanghevi and his associates, and Sanghevi had operated the hotel until the ownership changed. Wedgeworth named Margot Farias general manager. She had worked with the hotel for 11 years prior to the 1981 sale. Additionally, the hotel’s name was changed back to the Fontana. Under Sanghevi, the name had been changed to Poquito Mas Resort. New director for First National Bank First National Bank of Mission named Dr. Ricardo Barrera to the bank’s board of directors. Barrera had practiced medicine in the McAllen and Mission area since 1978. A native of Mission and a graduate of Mission High School, Barrera received his bachelor’s degree in pharmacy from the University of Houston and his M.D. from the Autonomous University of Guadalajara.
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opinion By Ed Sterling Texas Press Association
STATE CAPITAL HIGHLIGHTS
USTIN — A bronze statue of Jefferson Davis, president of the Confederate States of America, will be moved from the Main Mall of the University of Texas at Austin campus to UT’s Center for American History for interior display, in accordance with a decision made last week by UT President Gregory Fenves. Fenves said he appointed a task force in June, shortly after he became president, “to identify options for the statues along the Main Mall that have long been a source of discussion, debate and more recently, controversy.” The task force reported its findings to Fenves on Aug. 10. “While every historical figure leaves a mixed legacy, I believe Jefferson Davis is in a separate category, and that it is not in the university’s best interest to continue commemorating him on our Main Mall. Davis had few ties to Texas; he played a unique role in the history of the American South that is best explained and understood through an educational exhibit,” Fenves said in a news release. “The Briscoe Center is the logical location for the Davis statue and can provide a well-curated, scholarly context for its permanent display. As the home of one of the nation’s largest collections of Southern history, and as the keeper of UT Austin’s own history — including the papers of George W. Littlefield, a former regent and major benefactor responsible for the statues and fountain, and sculptor Pompeo Coppini — the Briscoe Center
will bring a scholarly depth that enhances the educational value of the Davis statue. The Briscoe Center has long planned a renovation of its facility, including new exhibit space, and my office will help raise the remaining funds needed for its completion,” Fenves added. The Sons of Confederate Veterans filed a request for a restraining order ahead of the statue’s Aug. 15 move date. A Travis County state district court is expected to review the matter this week. Suspect arrested in Iowa Texas Department of Public Safety on Aug. 13 published a bulletin announcing the arrest of a suspect in Iowa who was being sought in connection with arson of a vehicle in the Texas Capitol parking lot on Aug. 7. The suspect, Michael Patrick Wagner, 38, is being held in the Linn County (Iowa) jail and extradition proceedings have begun and are pending. “Thanks to great police and investigative work by local, state and federal law enforcement in Texas as well as our partners in Iowa, we are pleased to announce that the suspect in this case has been arrested,” said DPS Director Steven McCraw. The arrest warrant is for second-degree felony arson, an offense that carries a possible sentence of two to 20 years in state prison and a possible fine of up to $10,000. Records forms to change Texas Department of State Health Services on Aug. 13 announced its review of vital events forms and all vital event areas and records that may be affected by a U.S.
Supreme Court decision and a U.S. district court decision reached earlier this summer that require state and local governments to recognize same-sex marriage. “As a result, DSHS is implementing revised policies and procedures and also will amend certain vital events forms and records related to vital-events records to recognize married, same-sex couples,” the agency stated in a news release. Those records include birth certificates, death certificates, supplementary birth certificates (for adoptions) and birth certificates resulting from gestational agreements (surrogacy). Local registrars or other entities that may file vital information such as hospitals and funeral homes will receive revised forms and instructions when they become available. Sales tax revenue increases State Comptroller Glenn Hegar on Aug. 13 announced his agency’s monthly distribution of sales tax revenue to local governments would be an estimated $760 million. Local sales tax allocations for the month of August represent an increase of 7.6 percent compared to August 2014. Hegar also said state sales tax revenue in July was $2.4 billion, up 2.7 percent compared to July 2014. “July’s modest growth in sales tax revenue is in line with the biennial revenue estimate issued in January,” Hegar said. “Stronger growth in receipts from consumer driven sectors, including retail trade, restaurants and services offset declining receipts from oil and gas-related sectors.”
August 21, 2015
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Analysis: Don't discount the value of attention By Ross Ramsey The Texas Tribune
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ntertainment value in politics is underrated. The moaning and groaning about Donald Trump and whether his campaign is a circus act has something to do with a general question about his résumé: Is this guy really a smart businessman, or is he P.T. Barnum in a bespoke suit? It doesn’t matter. The circus is still named for Barnum, after all, and the value of attracting attention is evident in the front-runner’s poll numbers. Candidates like Ann Richards, Arnold Schwarzenegger and Al Franken turned their stage presence into political success. Maybe it will work for Trump. If Trump seems ridiculous, unprepared or unlikely, that’s not a sure sign of failure. Entertainment value is not usually enough to get someone into office, but candidates who can’t get the attention of voters can’t win, anyhow. Right now, it’s enough for him to be the least boring candidate on stage. Voters still have plenty of time to decide whether he’s up to the job. Richards couldn’t go into a store or restaurant in Texas without someone talking to her, taking a picture or just pointing her out to friends. She couldn’t do it in lots of places out of state, either. She came from politics and had a terrific ability to mix the entertainment with substantive policy and political ideas, but her humor and presence
are what kept people coming. It paid off in a race with a charismatic Republican, Clayton Williams Jr., whose campaign was undone by the candidate’s Trump-like soundbites on subjects ranging from rape to his own taxes. George W. Bush was a celebrity of a different sort. He is a famous face from a famous family who — even when he was running for governor of Texas — attracted attention from people who are not ordinarily interested in politics. He was careful when running against Richards in 1994 (maybe there’s a lesson for Trump’s opponents here?) to acknowledge her popularity and her audience even as he attacked some of her ideas. His nephew, Texas Land Commissioner George P. Bush, is the closest thing to a celebrity in the current lineup of state officeholders. He’s not yet famous, but he’s on his way. Once he declared for office in the early stages of the 2014 election cycle, other Republicans with an eye on that office found other things to do and other offices to seek. With a name like that, he had the sort of advantage others could get only with millions in campaign advertising. Wendy Davis had some celebrity. People knew who she was after she filibustered to try to block legislation raising medical standards for abortion clinics in Texas, increasing requirements for doctors who perform those operations and outlawing abortions after 20 weeks of
pregnancy. The attention she attracted launched her 2014 campaign for governor and helped attract millions in campaign contributions. Davis fell far short of winning in a resolutely Republican state, but in the early stages — like where we are in the current race for president — the attention she had attracted made her a viable Democratic standard-bearer. She made it over the first barrier (getting attention) and failed at the second one (getting elected). That happens. Victor Morales was the hottest ticket in Texas politics in 1996 after beating two sitting members of Congress and a former attorney general candidate for the Democratic nomination for the U.S. Senate. He lost to Phil Gramm, having failed to turn his attention-getting from-out-of-nowhere story into a real argument for why he should hold office. That’s one of the tricks to these things. First, get voters to pay attention. Second, answer the inevitable question about credibility. When voters say, “Really?” the candidate eventually has to provide an answer. Some do, some don’t. The guy leading the Republican field has not bothered with this so far, but that’s no reason to disregard him. Trump already succeeded in the first thing a candidate has to accomplish: People know who he is. He has the stage, and your attention. At least a dozen Republicans are wishing they had achieved as much. Now he has to do something with it.
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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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Letters to the Editor are welcome but must conform to certain guidelines. All letters must be original, dated, signed and bear the complete name, address and phone number of the writer/signer. No photo copied letters will be printed. No letters addressed to others will be printed. Letter content must be relevant to concerns and interests of Mission and the surrounding area. Relevance is determined by the editor. Anonymous cards or letters are neither read nor printed. Letters may be submitted by e-mail to letters@progresstimes.net, but must include the author’s name and daytime phone number.
lifestyle
August 21, 2015
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Book Giveaway promotes reading awareness
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MRMC Auxiliary hosts $5 sale The Mission Regional Medical Center Auxiliary board and members are preparing for a $5 fundraising event on Aug. 25. All jewelry and accessories will sell for $5 each on Tuesday, Aug. 25, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Wednesday Aug. 26, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. It will be held at the Mission Chamber of Commerce, 202 West Tom Landry. Proceeds benefit Auxiliary purchases of equipment and other needs at the nonprofit hospital. Preparing for the event, left to right, are board members Oma Bush, vice president of marketing; Russ Winters, vice president; Rosa Nea Garza, treasurer; Carmen Garza, recording secretary; Dora Banda, president; Violet Wiersig, corresponding secretary; Gloria Ibarra, assistant treasurer; Nancy Martinez, parliamentarian; and Lilliam Santana-Barrera, MRMC director of Volunteer Services.
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Warming up to the grand finale
cALLEN – Get a taste of what’s in store for this year’s 10th Anniversary Empty Bowls with food and fun with chefs and sponsors at the Empty Bowls Roll Out from 5:30 to 7 p.m. It takes place on Thursday, Aug. 27, at house.wine+bistro located at 1117 Business 83. This is a preview of the Sept. 29 main event, one of the major Food Bank RGV fundraisers. There is a $10 donation to attend; appetizers are included. Empty Bowls event tickets will be available to purchase on site. The Roll Out gives an opportunity to see some of the ceramic bowls and sample some of the food that will be at Empty Bowls 2015. It’s set for 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sept. 29 at the Pharr Events Center, 3000 N. Cage. Spots are still available for local restaurants to promote their gourmet dishes and sponsorship opportunities for businesses as well.
ALMVIEW – The City of Palmview, in partnership with One Church Network and the La Joya-American Federation of Teachers (AFT), is encouraging children to dream big and read. They will host a Book Giveaway this Saturday, Aug. 22, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Iglesia Del Pueblo, 75500 W. Exprewway 83 in Palmview. The cooperative effort is designed to be the largest in the region and to raise awareness on the importance of reading by giving children books they can call their own. The organizers are trying to reach as many children as possible. There will be entertainment put on by local high school groups and refreshments and snacks will be served on a first come, first serve basis. Volunteers will distribute the books until 2 p.m.
Scout merit badge programs begin at IMAS
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Aleda Reyes and Lori Morin and Hector and Nelda Cavazos invite foodies and connoisseurs to the Empty Bowls Roll Out from 5:30 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 27. A precursor to the Sept. 29 Empty Bowls fundraiser, the Roll Out gives a gives a peek into the popular fundraiser and the treats in store.
Also, companies and individuals are encouraged to donate unique bowls and silent auction items that help promote their products, services or talents. Over 500 guests attend each year mak-
ing this one of the more popular fundraisers. For more information, contact Philip Farias with the Food Bank at 904-4513 or by email at pfarias@foodbankrgv.com.
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cALLEN – The International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) has announced the return of their Scout merit badge workshops beginning in September. Boy and Girl Scouts, troops or individuals, will be able to work toward a variety of science and art-related badges at specially designed workshops led by certified merit badge counselors. Whether a child is a Webelo or Boy Scout or a Brownie, Junior or Cadette Girl Scout, each will have the opportunity to meet scouts from other troops as they make progress on their badges. Rates per workshop are $5 for IMAS members and $10 for nonmembers. Each
See MERIT BADGES 7
Events Calendar
Aug ust 22 – Aglow International McAllen Community Lighthouse is hosting a complimentary prayer breakfast at 9:30 a.m. with Rose Logan as the guest speaker. The meeting is open to the public; call Criselda Alvarado, president, at 534-7941 for location and directions. Logan is an ordained minister, conference speaker and organizer. She is currently serving as the South San Antonio Aglow president. Aug ust 22 – The International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS), with R Communications, invites the community to the annual Back-to-School Bash 2015. It takes place at IMAS, located at the corner of Bicentennial and Nolana Ave. in McAllen, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. There is free general admission to the museum filled with family-oriented activities: magic and puppet shows, live animal talks, face painting, arts and crafts, and free books. The first 300 students will receive a free backpack filled with school supplies for the new school year. For more information, call 682-0123. Aug ust 22 – The Summer Movie Night in the Park feature at the Edinburg World Birding Center will be “The Nut Job.” The movie will be shown on a large outdoor screen beginning at 8 p.m. The public is encouraged to bring a lawn chair or blanket to sit on. Snacks and beverages will be available for purchase. Call 381-9922 for more information. The EWBC is located at 714 S. Raul Longoria Rd. Aug ust 27 – Families can create a custom-made comet to sail through the air at the next Family Fun Night at the International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 Nolana Ave. in McAllen. It runs from 4 to 6 p.m. in the Old Art Studio at IMAS. Cost, not included in the price of admission, is $2 per person, all supplies included. Activities are limited to four people per group. Call 682-0123 for more information. Aug ust 27 – Explore the starry night skies with the staff at the Edinburg World Birding Center from 8:30 to 10 p.m. to learn about constellations and planets that are visible during this time of year. Admission is $2 for members and $4 for nonmembers. Seating is limited; call to register in advance. The EWBC is located at 714 S. Raul Longoria Rd. For more information, call 381-9922 or visit www.edinburgwbc.org. Aug ust 29 – Estero Llano Grande, 154A Lakeview Drive in Weslaco, will hold Full Moon, New Moon Night Hikes from 8 to 10 p.m. The program is free with park entrance fee. For more information, call 565-3919. Aug ust 30 – The public is invited to the Frontera Audubon annual meeting which begins at 2 p.m. It is located at 1101 S. Texas in Weslaco. Light refreshments will be served, and the meeting is free to the public. For more information, call 956-968-3275. September Sep tember 1 – The next Speer Memorial Library book discussion will be on “Gone Girl” by Gillian Flynn at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room. Pick up a copy at the library, 12th and Kika De La Garza in Mission. Through a special grant, a select number of free copies are available while supplies last for people who sign up for the discussions. This title is also available as an eBook at mission. lib.overdrive.com. For more information, or to sign up for the book discussion, call 580-8750 or 580-8754 or stop by the library to register. 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.
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August 21, 2015
page 6
Lobos ready to howl
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By Luciano Guerra alk about a dramatic turn-around! Coming off a 1 – 9 season the Palmview Lobos put it all together last year to become the first football team in Palmview High School history to make the playoffs. Then to prove that their 4 – 2 district record was no fluke Palmview defeated the Laredo LBJ Wolves 21 – 17 in the first round of the playoffs to claim their first ever bi-district championship. While a loss to Weslaco East in the area round of the state playoffs brought their history-making season to an end, that in no way marred what the Lobos accomplished last season. Having assumed the position of head football coach at Palmview three weeks into the 2013 season, the 2014 season was Margarito “Mage” Requenez’s first full season as the Lobos’ head coach. Requenez shared what he saw as one of the secrets to last year’s success and why he believes the Lobos will be able to build on that success this year.
Photo courtesy Treviños Digital
“Last year’s senior group worked very hard all spring and all summer long to correct the mistakes we made the year before and it showed on the field,” shared Requenez. “That’s something that we’re continuing this year. We have another senior group that has the same kind of leadership and I believe that’s what’s going to make the difference.” One of Palmview’s strong points last year was their of-
fensive line. With all but one member of that line returning this year that’s shaping up to be the case again this year. Defensively however the Lobos lost seven of last year’s starters to graduation. “Defensively our interior four is our strongpoint,” Requenez said. “We lost most of our defense from last year so this is a rebuilding year for us. We do have several returning players that saw some playing
time on defense last year but it’s going to take time to get those young players the experience they need.” One of Palmview’s returning starters on defense is senior middle linebacker Luis Sanchez. When asked what it’s going to take for the Lobos to make a return trip to the playoffs and possibly contend for a district title Sanchez said, “It’s going to take teamwork, patience and
communication. Communication is the key to everything as well as patience.” As a first team All-District selection last year, senior left guard Arturo Gutierrez was a big part of the Lobos’ first-ever playoff appearance. Like Sanchez, Gutierrez believes that for the Lobos to build on what they started last year it’s going to take teamwork. “Everybody has to work together,” Gutierrez said.
“Offense, defense and special teams are all important when it comes to putting together a winning season.” Senior wide receiver Damian Quintanilla is one of seven Lobos’ starters returning on offense. When asked what being a member of the first Lobos’ team to qualify for the playoffs meant to him Quintanilla said, “It meant everything to me. As a high school kid you have your dreams. Being a football player under the Friday night lights and having a winning season have been mine. But making the playoffs as a junior and getting experience for my senior year is the biggest thing.” Lobos’ senior defensive tackle Danny Castro shared similar sentiments when he said, “Being a part of the team was a great experience. Especially with it being the first time a Palmview team has gone to the playoffs.” Palmview open’s its non-district schedule Friday August 28 at Brownsville Lopez and will play its District 30-6A opener at Mission against the Eagles Friday October 2.
Coyotes prowling for the playoffs
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By Luciano Guerra he La Joya Coyotes’ 2014/2015 football season was one for the record books. By winning the final three games of their regular season they became the first Coyotes team since the three-way split of La Joya High in 2008 to finishing district play with a .500 record or better and the first since the split to qualify for the playoffs. After dropping their first three District 30-6A games of the season, the 2014 Coyotes salvaged their season with wins over Mission, Nikki
Rowe and Juarez-Lincoln to clinch the fourth seed in the district and punch their ticket into the playoffs. While a bi-district round loss to the Laredo United Longhorns did bring their playoff run to an end posthaste, the Coyotes took a definite step in the right direction last season and are now looking to build on that success this year. So what’s it going to take for the 2015 Coyotes to repeat, or possibly even surpass, last year’s success? La Joya head football coach George Espinoza believes he has the answer. “First and foremost we
need to stay healthy,” said Espinoza. “We had a young team last year and I think that the key for us this year is the experience that we’ll be bringing on both sides of the ball. Our numbers are definitely better this year than they were last so that will help.” The “numbers” Espinoza referred to is the number of kids that come out for the football team. Last year the Coyotes had 48 players on the varsity roster. As of a week ago 64 had come out for this year’s team with more expected to sign up before the start of school.
One of the Coyotes’ returning starters is senior wide receiver J.C. Maldonado. When asked what personal, as well as team, goals he has set for this year Maldonado said, “Our main goal is to be district champions. Another goal is to go three rounds deep into the playoffs. Personally I just want to stay on top. I want to be the best receiver in the Valley and do all I can to help my team win.” While senior free safety Gabriel Rios likes his team’s chances of making a return trip to the playoffs this year, he shared what being part
of the 2014 Coyotes’ team meant to him. “To be part of the first playoff team since the split meant a lot to me,” shared Rios. “It’s a memory that I’m always going to have. Hopefully this year we can make it again.” Like Maldonado and Rios, senior running back Justin Leanos is entering his third year on the La Joya varsity. If the Coyotes are going to extend their season into the playoffs once again this year, his on-field play and his leadership abilities will be key. “It’s going to take team-
work and all of us being on the same page for this team to make a return trip to the playoffs,” Leanos said. “Personally all I care about is us making it deeper into the playoffs than we did last year.” La Joya will be opening its non-district schedule next Friday at Roma against the Gladiators. The Coyotes will then play three consecutive Thursday night games against Donna North and Edinburg Vela, both at home, and at Weslaco East. La Joya will then open its District 306A schedule at McAllen Memorial Friday, September 25.
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Aug. 22 commencement SISD takes no action on former closes the book on UTPA assistant superintendent’s grievance
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DINBURG – The University of Texas-Pan American's final commencement ceremony closes not only a chapter, but the book on those whose diplomas will be sealed with the UTPA name before it becomes part of The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. The final commencement
begins at 9 a.m. this Saturday, Aug. 22, at the McAllen Convention Center, 700 Convention Blvd. in McAllen. UTPA President Ad Interim Dr. Havidán Rodríguez and UTPA officials will award degrees to more than 800 prospective graduates.
‘The Stomp’ opens first day of UTRGV classes
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ROWNSVILLE/EDINBURG – Local businesses are invited to promote their services and products to students at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley during “The Stomp,” from 6 to 10 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 31. Student Life is hosting The Stomp, a celebration of the first day of UTRGV’s first semester. Students will gather on the Brownsville and Edinburg campuses to kick off their school year with music, food, fun and games. “The evening is a perfect opportunity for students to have fun with friends, meet new people, connect with leaders from student organizations, and talk to faculty and staff from campus departments, get cool swag from local merchants, and learn about opportunities to get involved in the local community with non-profit agencies,” said Rebecca Gadson, interim associate vice president for Student Life and Dean of Students. University of Texas System policy permits businesses to come onto campus for self-promotion no more than two, one-day periods each academic year, Gadson said. “The Stomp will be one of the few opportunities during the 2015-16 academic year, so we hope businesses will take advantage of this evening to increase their visibility and share information with our large college audience,” she said. For a registration fee of $50, vendors will receive one sixfoot table and two chairs where they may display and distribute promotional items such as water bottles, T-shirts and coupons. Eating establishments are welcome to provide samples of their fare, but the sale of food or merchandise will not be allowed. The Stomp will feature live music, with Red Velvet playing at the Library Lawn in Brownsville and The Spazmatics at the Health and Promotional Education Track and Field
MERIT BADGES from pg 5
workshop has a capacity of 25 scouts, and registration is required. Scouts can register for one or as many workshops as they would choose. Sign up and get a list of the planned merit badges by visiting the IMAS front desk, 1900 Nolana, or by calling 6820123.
SHOES
from pg 3
there are enough new experiences for them at the beginning of the year. “This is just an act of kindness,” Rodriguez said. “We’re not just here to help these people because they have needs. We believe these people are just like us. They have talents, and they have assets.”
venue in Edinburg. The evening will end with simultaneous fireworks displays. “UTRGV is going to ignite the Valley as we kick off our inaugural Best Week Ever events,” Gadson said. “We want all students to feel welcome and to get connected to their campuses and local community. The main priority of the UTRGV administration, faculty and staff is student success, and that starts with getting students connected and knowing about campus resources and opportunities to maximize their student experience.” For more information, contact Mabel Cortina-Matos or Becky Sosa at6657989 or studentunion@utrgv. edu.
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By Julie Silva haryland ISD’s Board of Trustees took no action on a level III grievance by a former assistant superintendent after an hourlong hearing held behind closed doors. Nereida Cantu, former assistant superintendent of curriculum and instruction, believes she is being retaliated against after investigating what she believed was wrongdoing within the school district last school year, according to Javier Peña, Cantu’s attorney. “If the board does not make a decision regarding the appeal by the end of the next regularly scheduled board meeting, the lack of response by the board upholds the administrator’s decision at level II,” Board President Ricky Longoria read after the closed session. After the meeting, Longoria said he could not comment on the matter, citing personnel issues. The whole thing began when former superintendent Virgina Richter and Cantu saw some inconsistencies in construction work, Peña said. They believed work was being paid for that was never done and they reported it to outside investigating agencies, Peña said.
Richter resigned under controversy in September and Filomena Leo was brought in as interim superintendent. In March, Leo evaluated Cantu and found the assistant superintendent lacked people skills, Peña said, adding that every objective factor on Leo’s evaluation went Cantu’s way. Leo recommended Cantu’s contract not be renewed. “(Leo) even says herself that (Cantu) did good work, but she can’t get along with people,” Peña said. “It’s just coincidental after 17 years as an educator all of the sudden now she can’t get along with people. And it’s coincidentally right after she reports and is cooperating with a state and federal investigation into the theft of taxpayer money.” In recent weeks, Cantu was named director of credentialing and then eventually sent home on administrative leave, Peña said. Before the board heard Cantu’s grievance, Peña objected to the hearing being
held in executive session, behind closed doors. Because it’s Cantu’s grievance, she should have a choice as to whether it’s held in public or in closed session, he said. But Elizabeth Neally, attorney representing the district and Leo, said because Leo is named in the grievance, she is the subject of the complaint by Cantu. “There are very specific, egregious complaints against her (Leo),” Neally said. “She has requested that this take place in closed session. She is the subject of the complaint.” But Peña argued the board wasn’t making a decision on what to do with Leo. The board was there to decide Cantu’s fate, he said. Longoria ruled against Peña and held the hearing in executive session. He also ruled against Peña’s request to keep board attorney Ivan Perez from representing the school board in the case. Peña said Perez is a witness to the wrongdoing, and he established an attorney-cli-
ent relationship with Cantu when three complaints were issued against her and he found them meritless. “It would be comical if it wasn’t actually hurting somebody,” Peña later said about Cantu’s grievance. “It’s destroying or at least tarnishing her career.” Peña said they’ll wait to see what happens in the next board meeting, and then take steps as necessary “because Dr. Cantu has been severely punished for doing the right thing.”
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Traffic patterns and access to MHS are changing
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ission Consolidated Independent School District officials are making changes to traffic patterns, drop-off/pickup areas, and access around Mission High School for the 2015-2016 school year. Construction related activity at the campus is resulting in the need to make the changes. Main access for all visitors will be from the east
August 21, 2015
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side of the MHS campus, using Cummings Avenue. Student drop-off before school and pick-up after school will enter from the north on Cummings Avenue. Once the school day has started, access to Cummings from the north will be closed as in the past. All visitors to MHS during the school day will need to access the campus from the southeast, access-
ing Cummings Avenue from Kika De La Garza Street. A new parking lot A security guard will be positioned at the new southeast campus entry point. The parking areas and gates to MHS along Cleo Dawson will be closed. Limited access to a parking area near the Neuhaus Gym building may be used for competitive sporting events and student performances at the Fine Arts Theater on occasion. All campus staff and students with approved parking permits will be allowed to park at Tom Landry Stadium.
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COUNTY
Some of the projects credited to Villarreal include: • Suggesting a peer review of the architectural designs for the proposed courthouse that resulted in $50 million in savings and a more efficient design. • Working with State Sen. Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa and State Representatives Armando “Mando” Martinez and Terry Canales to pass a filing assessment bill through the legislature that will generate a minimum of
CITIZENS AWARDS
from pg 1
Must have provided long term service to Mission through a civic or church group or endeavor, or through charitable or benevolent serv¬ice to the community, or a combination of these factors. Service most be ongoing and cover a minimum of 11 years. Length of service, character and integrity will be among considerations. Value of service to the community in general is the primary factor. Must live, work or have significant busi¬ness interests in Mission. Nomination Procedure Nominations must in-
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week. De La Rosa and MHS head volleyball coach Edna Clemons already have their eyes on a few of the artifacts. The 1980s Mission High graduates recalled their time as students on campus. De from pg 3
$60 million over the next 30 years – funds that will be dedicated to help cover the cost of a new courthouse. • Helping to negotiate an agreement with Cameron County to house Hidalgo County prisoners at a savings of $800,000. Garcia said there are two other projects that are expected to generate another $500,000 to $800,000 and create new opportunities for county residents.
clude the nominee’s name, address and phone number as well as the qualifications of the indi¬vidual. Qualifications may include positions and offices held, number of years of serv¬ice and a description of the serv¬ice the individual has given. Also, list any honors the individual has received, whether civic, church, or pro¬fessional. Include a description of what is particularly out¬standing about this indi¬vidual. Also, include the name and telephone number of the per¬son submitting the nomination. Any person who works or resides in Mission can submit a nomination. In addition to being availLa Rosa said she remembers when the trees that were torn down were small and freshly planted. Clemons reminisced about doing homework in the space that was also used as a study hall. “I do have several pictures I’ve been sharing because they’re memories,” Clemons said. “That’s why I’m happy that our ag. teachers are creating this memorabilia because I want one. I’ll see it on my desk and I’ll know exactly where that was.” When the Mission High School location on Cleo Dawson was first built in the mid 1960s, there was no cafeteria, according to MCISD spokesperson Craig Verley. Students either ate off-campus or brought their own food. When Clemons and De La Rosa were students,
able online, the nomination forms and criteria may also be picked up at the Progress Times office located at 1217 N. Conway. To request forms to be faxed or emailed, call 956-585-4893. Email requests should be sent to awards@ptrgv.com. Last year’s award recipients were Joyce Geary, First Lady of Mission; Ruben Rodriguez, Mr. Mission; Maritza Esqueda, Woman of the Year, and Carl Davis, Man of the Year. Tickets for the chamber banquet may be purchased at the Mission Chamber of Commerce, located at 202 W. Tom Landry, phone 5852727. from pg 1
they had open campus and said most of the students ate elsewhere. Now that that the campus doesn’t allow students to leave on their own for lunch, the cafeteria has to hold more than 2,000 people. De La Rosa said that she has been on the committee advocating for a new cafeteria for the students. She admits that it’s bittersweet seeing the buildings come down, but said it’s time for the new. “We’re steeped in tradition. We love Mission High School; all of us bleed maroon,” De La Rosa said. “So watching it go down is a difficult thing because those are our memories and are people going to remember that? But we will.”
August 21, 2015
obituaries
Maxine Elizabeth Durst Ellis ISSION - Maxine Elizabeth Durst Ellis, 98, passed away on Friday, Aug. 14, 2015, at Amara Hospice. Mrs. Ellis was born Dec. 18, 1916, to pioneer parents in Optima, Okla. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in home economics from Panhandle A&M College in Goodwill, Okla. in 1936 and married Cecil Ellis that year. They moved to Texas for his studies at SMU’s Perkins School of Theology, and settled into their first parsonage in rural Aubrey. She taught school there and, by night, they were the custodians at a bank to pay for his tuition. As an active preacher’s wife, she sang in the choir, taught Sunday School, led MYF activities and W.S.C.S. projects. Periodically, she taught at local schools – special education, 4th grade, or home economics. After retiring from active ministry in 1973, the couple resided at their lakeside cabin near Moose Lake, Minn. For a time, she taught adult special education at the Moose Lake State Hospital. They were winter visitors to Mission for 23 years and were active at the First Methodist Churches in Mission and McAllen. Survivors include her daughters, Dianne Ellis of Mission, Marlis Cuthbertson of Brownsboro and Stephanie Ellis of Boston; and one granddaughter, two great-grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband and a grandson, John Wagner. Her ashes will be interred beside her husband in Arlington. A celebration service will be held during the 2016 Winter Texan season. Memorial donations may be sent to “ESL Classes,” First United Methodist Church, 1101 Doherty Ave., Mission, TX 78572. Gilberto Buentello Garcia LTON - Gilberto Buentello Garcia, 64, passed away on Friday, Aug. 14, 2015 in New Braunfels.
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Born in Coahuila, Mexico, Mr. Garcia had lived in Alton most of his life and was a very active member of San Martin De Porres Catholic Church where he served as an usher. He was a handyman and carpenter. Survivors include his wife of 20 years, Hilda Pacheco Sanchez of Alton; daughter, Ana Escalera of Sullivan City; stepchildren, Nora Castellano, of Edinburg, Jesus Sanchez of Mission, Bertha Sanchez, Sandra Sanchez and Dalia Sanchez, all of McAllen, Agustin Sanchez of Mission and Zulema Sanchez and Armando Sanchez of Alton; mother, Julia Buentello of Laredo; siblings, Jose Luis Garcia, Santa Leticia Garcia, Juan Manuel Garcia, Juan Carlos Garcia, Lupita Garcia, Ramon Garcia, Ana Julia Vasquez, Martin Garcia and Gabriela Flores; and 24 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his father, Jose Garcia, and stepson, Andres Sanchez. A funeral was held on Aug. 20 at San Martin De Porres Catholic Church in Alton. Interment followed at Valley Memorial Gardens in McAllen. Pallbearers were Ramon Garcia, Martin Garcia, Isair Osvaldo Garcia, Eliazar Flores, David Vasquez and Juan Carlos Escalera. Bette Jo Marak Griffin OERNE – Bette Jo Marak Griffin, formerly of Mission, Houston and Georgetown, passed away on July 22, 2015, in Boerne. She was born in 1925 in Grinnell, Kan., and married James D. Griffin in 1944. They settled in Mission where they started a family and established a farm on Inspiration Road. Until the time of her husband’s passing in 1975, over the 31 years of her marriage, she was a homemaker and volunteered as Girl Scout leader, decorated floats for the Texas Citrus Fiesta parade and hosted youth rodeos at the family farm. After leaving the Valley, she became a world traveler and an active patron of the arts throughout her life.
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Survivors include her children, James D. Griffin Jr., Dr. Antoinette J.G. “Toni” Hill, William D. Griffin, and Lleanna Griffin Brinsmade, and five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren She was preceded in death by her parents, Dorothy Kobler Marak and Peter Paul Marak; brothers Kenneth T. Marak, Robert J. Marak and Sam A. Marak; James D. Griffin Sr., and a granddaughter, Katherine Meghan Hill. Memorial donations may be made to the Children’s Association for Maximum Potential (CAMP), PO Box 27086, San Antonio, TX 78227 or www.campcamp. org; Benedictine Ministries Health and Wholeness Center, 216 W. Highland Drive, Boerne, TX 78006, or www. benedictineministries.com (earmark donations for the Health and Wholeness Center). Olegario Hinojosa ISSION - Olegario Hinojosa passed away on Tuesday, Aug. 18, 2015. Mr. Hinojosa was born on March 6, 1922, in Camargo, Mexico to the late Jose Hinojosa and Juanita Garza. Before retiring, he worked most of his life with the Hidalgo County Water District #14 and later the County of Hidalgo Precinct 3. Survivors include his daughters, Juana Cortez, Maria G. Perez and Nora E. Hinojosa Rivera; sister, Ignacia Hinojosa de Falcon; and five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife of 64 years, Velia Hinojosa; and nine siblings. A funeral mass was held on Aug. 20 with Monsignor Juan Nicolau officiating. Interment followed at Laurel Hill Cemetery in Mission. Gabriel Hurtado ISSION - Gabriel Hurtado, 89, passed away on Friday, Aug. 14, 2015, at Paxvilla Hospice & Palliative Care in McAllen. He was born on March 24, 1926, in Jaral De Berrios, Guanjuato, Mexico. Survivors include his wife, Esperanza P. Hurtado; children, Felipe Hurtado and Maria Elena Najera; and sisters, Raquel Hurtado and Maria
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Hurtado. He was preceded in death by his parents, Felipe Hurtado and Maria Del Refugio Lucio, and sisters, Ernestina Ferrer, Maria De La Luz Ochoa and Josefina Rivera. A funeral mass was held on Aug. 18 at San Martin De Porres Catholic Church in Alton. Interment followed at Garden of Angels Cemetery in Abram. Jose Guadalupe Moreno ISSION - Jose Guadalupe “Lupe” Moreno Sr., 86, passed away on Aug. 18, 2015, at his home in Mission. Mr. Moreno was born on Dec. 7, 1928, and was a lifelong resident of Mission. He was an active member of Our Lady Guadalupe Catholic Church in Mission. Survivors include his children Jose Guadalupe Moreno Jr. of Mission, Ruben Moreno of Mission, Diana Peña of Michigan, Alfredo Moreno of Mission, Carlos Moreno of Peñitas, Rosalba Abrego of San Benito, Carmen Cardoza of Granjeno, Robert Moreno of Mission, Rodolfo Moreno of El Paso, Javier Moreno of McAllen and Eduardo Moreno of Palmview; sister, Paula M. Garcia; and 33 grandchildren and 33 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Maria Rosa Moreno. A funeral mass will be held on Friday, Aug. 21, at 10 a.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Mission. Burial follows at San Jose Cemetery in Mission.
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George Raulston MISSION - George Raulston, 86, passed away on Monday, Aug. 10, 2015, at Solara Hospital in McAllen. A funeral service was held on Friday, Aug. 14, at the First United Methodist Church in Mission. Burial followed at Rio Grande Veterans Cemetery in Mission. Luz Rojas MISSION - Luz Rojas, 89, died Friday, Aug. 14, 2015, at Mission Regional Medical Center in Mission. A funeral service was held on Aug. 17 at Flores Funeral Home in Mission. Burial followed at Valley Memorial Gardens in McAllen.
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.
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.
GRACIA DIVINA MINISTRY 11809 N. Shary Rd. • 584-3112
ONLY THRU JESUS 1511 E. Mile 2 Rd. Mission • 918-760-1625
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
RIVER OF LIFE CHURCH 901 S. Shary Rd. (Located in the Holiday Inn Express Conference Room) 451-4838 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
Memorial donation may be made to Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church or the American Cancer Society. Dora S. Olson I N T O N / P E N I TA S - Dora S. Olson, 56, passed away on Monday, Aug. 17, 2015, at Mission Regional Medical Center. Ms. Olson was born in Sinton on April 5, 1959, to Ricardo and Delia Salazar. She was raised and attended schools in Sinton and graduated from Texas A&I in Kingsville where she received her bachelor’s degree in elementary education. She worked for 30 years in the Roma and Rio Grande City school district. Survivors include her husband, Javier Soliz Sr.; son, Roel Olson III; her mother; brother, Ricardo Salazar Jr.; stepsons, Javier Soliz Jr. and Juaquin Angel Soliz; and three grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her father; brothers, Roy Salazar and Carlos Salazar;
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and sister, Guadalupe Salazar. A funeral mass was held on Aug. 19 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Sullivan City. Burial followed at Cuevitas Cemetery. Hercilia G. Ramirez ISSION - Hercilia G. Ramirez, 93, passed away on Sunday, Aug. 16, 2015, at Amara Hospice in Edinburg. She was born to Jose L. and Cruz Gonzalez on Nov. 25, 1921, in Mission. Survivors include her children, Alicia Nilda Saenz, Alma Noelia Rodriguez, Baldomero Ramirez Jr., Aida Norma Ramirez and Diana Hercilia Ramirez; and 19 grandchildren, 34 great-grandchildren and eight great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Baldomero Ramirez. A funeral mass was held on Aug. 20 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Mission. Interment followed at Valley Memorial Gardens in Mission.
M
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August 21, 2015
NOTICE OF 2015 TAX YEAR PROPOSED PROPERTY TAX RATE FOR CITY OF ALTON
NOTICE OF 2015 TAX YEAR PROPOSED PROPERTY TAX RATE FOR CITY OF MISSION
A tax rate of $0.4540 per $100 valuation has been proposed by the governing body of CITY OF ALTON.
A tax rate of $0.4988 per $100 valuation has been proposed by the governing body of City of Mission.
PROPOSED TAX RATE $0.4540 per $100 PRECEDING YEAR’S TAX RATE $0.4591 per $100 EFFECTIVE TAX RATE $0.4540 per $100
The effective tax rate is the total tax rate needed to raise the same amount of property tax revenue for CITY OF ALTON from the same properties in both the 2014 tax year and the 2015 tax year. YOUR TAXES OWED UNDER ANY OF THE ABOVE RATES CAN BE CALCULATED AS FOLLOWS: property tax amount = (rate) x (taxable value of your property)/100 For assistance or detailed information about tax calculations, please contact: Pablo (Paul) Villareal Jr. Hidalgo County Tax Assessor-Collector 2804 S US HWY 281 Edinburg, TX 78539 (956) 318-2157 propertytax@hidalgocountytax.org www.hidalgocountytax.org
PROPOSED TAX RATE $0.4988 per $100 PRECEDING YEAR’S TAX RATE $0.5188 per $100 EFFECTIVE TAX RATE $0.5155 per $100
The effective tax rate is the total tax rate needed to raise the same amount of property tax revenue for City of Mission from the same properties in both the 2014 tax year and the 2015 tax year. YOUR TAXES OWED UNDER ANY OF THE ABOVE RATES CAN BE CALCULATED AS FOLLOWS: property tax amount = (rate) x (taxable value of your property)/100 For assistance or detailed information about tax calculations, please contact: Pablo (Paul) Villareal Jr. Hidalgo County Tax Assessor-Collector 2804 S. Business Hwy 281 Edinburg, TX 78539 (956) 318-2157 propertytax@hidalgocountytax.org http://www.hidalgocountytax.org
NOTICE OF 2015 TAX YEAR PROPOSED PROPERTY TAX RATE FOR CITY OF PALMVIEW
NOTICE OF 2015 TAX YEAR PROPOSED PROPERTY TAX RATE FOR CITY OF PENITAS
A tax rate of $0.4751 per $100 valuation has been proposed for adoption by the governing body of City of Palmview. This rate exceeds the lower of the effective or rollback tax rate, and state law requires that two public hearings be held by the governing body before adopting he proposed tax rate.
A tax rate of $0.5060 per $100 valuation has been proposed by the governing body of City of Penitas.
PROPOSED TAX RATE PRECEDING YEAR’S TAX RATE EFFECTIVE TAX RATE ROLLBACK TAX RATE
$0.4751 per $100 $0.4790 per $100 $0.4585 per $100 $0.4751 per $100
The effective tax rate is the total tax rate needed to raise the same amount of property tax revenue for City of Palmview from the same properties in both the 2014 tax year and the 2015 tax year. The rollback tax rate is the highest tax rate that City of Palmview may adops before voters are entitled to petition for an election to limit that rate that may be approved to the rollback rate. YOUR TAXES OWED UNDER ANY OF THE ABOVE RATES CAN BE CALCULATED AS FOLLOWS: property tax amount = (rate) x (taxable value of your property)/100 For assistance or detailed information about tax calculations, please contact: Pablo (Paul) Villareal Jr. Hidalgo County Tax Assessor-Collector 2804 S Business Hwy 281 Edinburg, TX 78539 (956) 318-2157 propertytax@hidalgocountytax.org http://www.hidalgocountytax.org You are urged to attend and express your views at the following public hearing on the proposed tax rate: First Hearing: August 27, 2015 at 6:00 PM at Palmview City Hall, 400 W. Veterans Blvd, Palmview, TX. Second Hearing: September 8, 2015 at 6:00 PM at Palmview City Hall, 400 W. Veterans Blvd, Palmview, TX.
PROPOSED TAX RATE $0.5060 per $100 PRECEDING YEAR’S TAX RATE $0.4595 per $100 EFFECTIVE TAX RATE $0.5060 per $100
The effective tax rate is the total tax rate needed to raise the same amount of property tax revenue for City of Penitas from the same properties in both the 2014 tax year and the 2015 tax year. YOUR TAXES OWED UNDER ANY OF THE ABOVE RATES CAN BE CALCULATED AS FOLLOWS: property tax amount = (rate) x (taxable value of your property)/100 For assistance or detailed information about tax calculations, please contact: Pablo (Paul) Villareal Jr. Hidalgo County Tax Assessor-Collector 2804 S. Business Hwy 281 Edinburg, TX 78539 (956) 318-2157 propertytax@hidalgocountytax.org http://www.hidalgocountytax.org
August 21, 2015
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COMMITTEE TO TAKE A LOOK AT JAIL SAFETY
By Terri Langford The Texas Tribune
I
n the wake of the hanging death of Sandra Bland and the deaths of other Texas jail inmates, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and state Sen. John Whitmire on Tuesday announced the creation of an interim jail safety study committee to look at issues related to mental health and suicide concerns among inmates.
PALMVIEW
three on the weekends. One will be designated to Palmview, EMS and fire and the other will be assigned to Peñitas and Sullivan City. Currently, Palmview has one dispatcher during the week and two on the weekends. On a slow day, Barrera said, Palmview has three officers out on calls and nine or 10 out on busy days. Peñitas has two and Sullivan City has one, so the Palmview dispatcher will be the busiest, he said. The move to regionalization also improves com-
“It’s a very small percentage and a very small number, but they are human lives and we should do the best we can to protect those lives in those jails,” said Patrick. The lieutenant governor never mentioned Bland’s name during the announcement at the Capitol, saying “we’re not here to talk about any particular case.” Bland, 38, was arrested on July 10 for failing to signal before changing lanes in Prairie View, about 50 miles from pg 1
munication between the law enforcement agencies, Segovia said. Just two weeks ago, Segovia said a chase ended in a bail out near Palmview High School and a La Joya ISD officer drove right by, unaware of the incident. If 9-1-1 calls are going through Palmview, he said communication between the agencies will improve. “It’s more a safety issue, emergency issue and a cost-effective issue for everybody,” Barrera said. “We won’t let anybody down.”
northwest of Houston. The video of her traffic stop, in which Texas Department of Public Safety Trooper Brian Encinia is seen losing his temper after Bland failed to put out a cigarette, has drawn national outrage. Encinia arrested Bland because he said she kicked his shin during the arrest. For three days, Bland remained in the Waller County Jail, unable to post a $500 bond. On that third day, July 13, Bland was found hanged in a cell. The Harris County
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puses that got a perfect score in distinctions, three high performing and three high progress schools. “I’m telling you, you have a gift and you make a difference every day to those children in the classroom,” O’Connor said to the district’s employees. “Sharyland is proud that you make that difference every day, and you’re raising a generation of kids that anyone can be proud of.” O’Connor addressed the
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medical examiner’s office has ruled the death a suicide, but the local district attorney is investigating the matter as a suspicious death and will turn over findings to a grand jury. Since Bland’s death, it has been determined that Waller County authorities failed to complete a two-part mental health check on Bland, who indicated that she had tried to commit suicide over the loss of a child. Documents released following her death show that she gave conflict-
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Probate & Family Court Middlesex Division 208 Cambridge Street Cambridge, MA 02141 Docket no. MI13P5130EA Estate: Robert Lemons DOD: 2/24/213 2/24/2013 To all persons interested in the above captioned estate, by Petition of: Blanca V. Lemons of Mission, TX has been informally appointed as the Personal Representative of the estate to serve without surety on the bond. The estate is being administered under informal procedure by the Personal Representative in the Massachusetts Uniform Probate Code without supervision by the Court inventory and accounts are not required to be filed with the Court, but interested parties are entitled to notice regarding the administration from the Personal Representative and can petition the Court in any matter relating to the estate, including distribution of assets and expenses of administration. Interested parties are entitled to petition the court to institute formal procedure. A copy of the Petition and Will, if any, can be obtained from the Petitioner. Tara E. DeCristofaro Register of Probate
CAUSE NO. F-1382-15-E IN THE MATTER OF THE MARRIAGE OF ANA STEPHANIE CUEVAS VS. ELESVAN RAFAEL RODRIGUEZ THE STATE OF TEXAS ELESVAN RAFAEL RODRIGUEZ, 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 petition of ANA STEPHANIE CUEVAS, Petitioner, was filed in the 275th District Court of Hidalgo County, Texas, on this the 9th day of March, 2015, against ELESVAN RAFAEL RODRIGUEZ, Respondent, case numbered F-1382-15-E and entitled IN THE MATTER OF THE MARRIAGE OF ANA STEPHANIE CUEVAS VS. ELESVAN RAFAEL RODRIGUEZ. 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: Ana Stephanie Cuevas, 2600 E. Filmore Ave. Mission, Texas 78573 ISSUED AND GIVEN UNDER MY HAND AND SEAL of said Court at Edinburg, Texas this on this the 4th day of August, 2015.
Sharyand ISD community as a whole for the first time at the rally. He gave away cash prizes up to $500 and had the schools participate in friendly competitions against each other. “I’m going to lead with heart, and I’m going to lead with relationships because you guys all matter to me,” O’Connor said. “To me, the most important work I do is celebrating the teachers and the staff for all the hard work you do.”
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ing answers to the suicide question and that she should have been referred for a mental health evaluation, according to the Texas Commission on Jail Standards. Patrick referred to “her” case as part of the reason he was creating the panel and tapping Whitmire, D-Houston, the chairman of the Senate Criminal Justice Committee, to head the panel. “Suicides in our jails have been in the news,” Patrick said. “It’s drawn the attention, quite frankly, of senators on both sides of the aisle.” Whitmire, who praised the work of the Texas sheriffs who run the more than 240 county jails in the state, called on them to immediately review their procedures. “If it has become routine but not safe, change your operations,” said Whitmire who plans for his committee to hear testimony on jail safety to address suicide prevention, inmate medical care and the bail bond system in Texas. “I want all of us to think
for a moment what it would be like, what you would do if you’re taken to jail on a nonviolent charge,” Whitmire said. He talked about his concerns over jail medical care when those detained might not have access to insulin or mental health drugs, creating a more dangerous environment for the inmate and jailer. He said he was told by some sheriffs that some jails have so few resources that an inmate would have to go into a diabetic coma before medical aid is given through emergency paramedics. That said, Whitmire said most of the county jails in Texas are “generally a well run system.” But practices are uneven. “When you have a broken link as it was in Waller, it affects the whole thing,” Whitmire said. Each year, about 1 million people are booked in county jails. Each day, about 67,000 people reside in Texas jails and about 60 percent of those have not been convicted of any crime.
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.
EscalEra WrEckEr Inc. 1515 W. 3 MIlE rd. MIssIon, TExas 78573 (956) 585-8245 • Fax 581-6668 Tdlr VsF lIc. no. 0548371 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 2008 JEEP
MODEL VIN# COMMANDER 1J8HH58218C117300
BALANCE $725.00
TOTAL CHARGES CANNOT BE COMPUTED UNTIL VEHICLE IS CLAIMED. STORAGE CHARGES WILL ACCRUE DAILY UNTIL VEHICLE IS RELEASED.
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August 21, 2015