October 24, 2014 - Progress Times Issue by Progress Times

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Progress Times honors city’s ‘finest’ through Citizen Awards

rogress Times continued a more than 50-year-old tradition this month, honoring four of the Mission’s “finest” residents through the Citizens Awards at the Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce annual banquet. Joyce Geary was honored as the 2014 First Lady of Mission; Ruben Rodriguez was named Mr. Mission 2014; Maritza Ramirez Esqueda earned the honor of Woman of the Year; Carl Davis was named Man of the

Year. The honorees are kept secret until they are announced at the banquet, which was held Thursday, Oct. 16, at Mario’s Banquet and Conference Center. Progress Times Publisher Jim Brunson and his wife, Mendi, presented the awards. First Lady of Mission Geary wasn’t born in Mission, but she’s made her mark in the city since arriving in 1982 as a member of Volunteers for Education and Social Services to teach

2014 Woman of the Year Maritza Ramirez Esqueda, right 2013 Woman of the Year Heather Marks, left

elementary students at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church–a job that didn’t even pay minimum wage at the time. Her service mostly centers on the youths of the community. While she taught at Our Lady of Guadalupe, Geary also coordinated the Friday Mass, planning and practicing the music and readings with the children and making the sacramental bread–a task she often shared with the children coming to her house

to assist. Geary went on to become a youth minister at St. Paul’s Catholic Church, the Teen Court coordinator at the McAllen Police Department, a sixth-grade teacher at K. White Jr. High School and an assistant principal at Brown Middle School in McAllen and principal at Cavazos Elementary in Mission. She’s been at Cavazos nine years and has been named “Who’s Who of American Educators.” As a youth minister and

Carl Davis 2014 Man of the Year, right Richard Hernandez, 2013 Man of the Year, left

youth choir direct at St. Paul’s, Geary has focused on ways to engage children while making it fun, hosting BYOB (Bring Your Own Banana) parties, retreats and lock-ins. For 20 years, she’s led teams of youths in the Mission Service Project and created well-organized, fun experiences for out-of-town guests who joined them. Geary also has led two church choirs for 25 years, alternating two Sundays at Our Lady of Guadalupe and the other two at St. Paul’s

2014 First Lady Joyce Geary, left 2013 First Lady Beatriz Tijerina, right

church. Now in her second generation of leading the groups, former students are now bringing their children back to participate. She leads the choir to nursing homes, hospitals and homes of shut-ins during the holidays to sing Christmas carols. They also sing to the families whose homes they renovate through the Mission Service Project. Monsignor Da Vola at St. Paul’s calls her the Pied Pip-

See CITIZENS AWARDS 12A

Ruben Rodriguez, 2014 Mr. Mission, right Ben Olivarez, 2013 Mr. Mission, left

Chamber celebrates accomplishments

By Julie Silva lot’s changed at the Mission Chamber of Commerce since 2006 when Navin Buxani first became a member.

Buxani, director of operations of Holiday Inn Express, remembered the ribbon cutting ceremony when he joined the organization, and then he received a call a year later asking him if he wanted

to renew his membership. “Now before everybody goes home and starts writing that I’m blasting the work of the chamber back then, that’s not what I’m saying,” Buxani said. “I’m merely alluding to the fact that what was expected from businesses and the chamber back then was that, and inevitably it must evolve or get passed by.” Buxani took the reins as chairman of the Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors at the annual banquet Thursday, Oct. 16. Buxani pointed to explosive growth in Mission in both the commercial and residential sectors and said that’s due to local leadership. “While once expectations of the chamber were only limited to ribbon cuttings and mixers, members expect now more. They expect value. Members are now reaping this value on a daily basis,” Buxani said. He highlighted the chamber’s Go Mission discount card, which encourages customers to shop locally. More than 10,000 cards have been distributed through the program, and the Texas Chamber of Commerce recently honored Mission’s chamber with the Executive Media Award in Recognition of Excellence in the Area of Marketing. Before past chairman Rob Neagle, general manager of Main Event Entertainment,

LEFT TOP:Pilar Rodriguez, of Dip-It Yogurts, receives a plaque from Chamber President George Myers as Business of the Year. LEFT BOTTOM: Pictured, from left to right, are Yvonne Loflin, of H-E-B; Myers, and Dan Martin,, general manager of H-E-B plus! H-E-B was named Business Leader of the Year. ABOVE: Myers recognizes outgoing chairman Rob Neagle.

stepped down, he pointed to many of the chamber’s accomplishments over the past year, including a new tier structure that provides aid to small businesses as well as large ones, depending on their needs. The chamber can even help businesses build

their own websites. Neagle said the chamber also has breathed life into an aging diplomat program and everyone’s excited about it. “The one thing I can say, having been able to walk the halls of the chamber, I can tell you that this chamber,

led by George (Myers), just has an amazing feel to it,” Neagle said. “Everybody is working toward the same common goal, enjoying their work. It’s been an honor to serve you.”

See CHAMBER 12A

INSIDE

INDEX

RGV Hispanic Chamber hosts political forum

MAE celebrates 60 years of business

Sharyland, Pioneer make history

U.S. Representative, 13th Court of Appeals, sheriff and 92nd District Court candidates sound off in debate at STC.

Formerly known as Mission Auto Electric, the company, founded by Ben Cavazos, is one of the oldest in the city.

Rattlers will take on little brother Diamondbacks in the first inaugural Snakeskin Classic on Friday.

See story page 3A

See story page 7A

See story page 1B

Entertainment | pg. 2A

Lifestyle | pg. 6A

Opinion | pg. 4A

Sports | pg. 1B

Obituaries | pg. 11A

Classifieds | pg. 13A

entertainment

UTPA hosts its last

ghoulish gala

DINBURG – The 48th Carnival of the Great Pumpkin will provide young ghosts and goblins a howling good time in its last year hosted by The University of Texas-Pan American. Activities will be held inside and outside the UTPA Fieldhouse Saturday, Oct. 25 from 6-9 p.m. and admission is free and open to the public. This year the carnival will have the theme of “Despicable Me,” a popular animated 3-D film from Universal Pictures and Illumination Entertainment. “Although we are sad that this is the last year for the Carnival of the Great Pumpkin at UTPA, we are confident UTRGV will continue this time honored tradition,”

said Daniela Venegas, program coordinator for the Office of Student Involvement. “The community really loves this event and the safe space it provides the children and their families to celebrate Halloween.” This year the carnival will feature more novelties such as face painting, wax hands, balloon art, giant inflatables as well as food, music, and loads of candy. Metro, the City of McAllen’s Transit Department, will bring a “haunted bus” for guests and ghouls to enter at their own risk. The popular pie eating contest and “Wrap your Mummy,” where contestants wrap their mothers in toilet paper for prizes, will also be included in the festivities.

Creative costumes are encouraged for the contests, and prizes will be awarded for different age groups. For the newborns to 5-year-old category, the top three winners will win age-appropriate games and toys. For the 6- to 12-year-old group, prizes include a tablet, skateboard and Nerf Blasters. For the age 12 and older group, the most creative costume winners will

have a chance to take home a new TV, iPod, or camera. “Over the years, we have seen some really creative costumes, not your typical store bought costumes,” said Venegas. “We’ve seen a Stripes cup, a vending machine, and one year someone came as a Rubik’s Cube.” This year, more than 50 student organizations will be decorating their booths and passing out free candy to the children, provided by the University Program Board. They will also sell food and host various carnival games as a way to raise money for their respective organization's functions throughout the school year. UTPA began the event in 1966 to connect the University community with the Rio Grande Valley community. Last year, the University hosted almost 5,000 people. For more information or special accommodations, call 655-2660.

MHM hosts back-to-back weekend celebrations

here are two parties in the house at the Mission Historical Museum: one this weekend and again the next. Saturday, Oct. 25, friends and families can gather around the commemorative altars of the MHM Dia de los Muertos Festival from 4 to 8 p.m. The festivities will

include refreshments, historical and musical presentations, children’s activities, face painting to compliment the All Souls Day theme, and the arts and culture of the special celebration honoring loved ones who have passed. The event is traditionally held Nov. 2. On Friday, Oct. 31, cele-

brate “Halloween Mysteries at the Boo!seum.” The family festival features a line-up of kids games and prizes, refreshments, cake walk, candy, a Jailhouse Haunted House, activity booths, moon jump and photo booth.

Everyone is encouraged to wear a costume. Admission is free to both events. The museum is located at 900 Doherty. Call 580-8646 for more information.

IMAS Halloween happenings

t’s a day-long event of Halloween fun on Friday, Oct. 31, at the International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 Nolana in McAllen. In a family-friendly environment, kids and their parents can visit the “Mad Scientist” science lab, join in the Costume Carnival or compete in the pumpkin carving contest. Show off talents and bring a pumpkin already carved to fit the theme with a movie character. Admission for the day is $1 per person. Call 682-0123 for information.

‘Boo at the Zoo’ returns Oct. 30-31

t’s the 25th annual “Boo at the Zoo” – a Halloween tradition at the Gladys Porter Zoo. The alternative to trick or treating on the streets offers over 60 carnival-style games and treat stations and a spectacular Haunted House available for everyone to enjoy. The “spooktacular” event is held each night on Oct. 30 and 31 from 6 to 9 p.m.

Zoo members get in early at 5 p.m. Discounted pre-sale tickets are now on sale for $2.50 at the Zoo office and will be available until Oct. 29. Ticket prices on the days of the event go up an additional $1 for adults and children. Zoo members get in free. For more information, call 546-7187 or visit www. gpz.org.

October 24, 2014 page 2A www.progresstimes.net NEWS | SPORTS | ENTERTAINMENT | PHOTOS

Coming Attractions

October 24-26 The three-day Conjunto Music Festival sponsored by the Narciso Martinez Cultural Arts Center in San Benito features accordion-driven sounds featuring 17 of the top bands in the area and beyond. Events on Oct. 24 will run from 6 to 11 p.m. and will feature Conjunto Delta Boys, Los D Boyz, Los Morales Boyz, Los Badd Boyz and Tejano Boys. Music begins at 4 p.m. on Oct. 25 and features San Benito High School Conjunto Estrella, Conjunto Fuego, La Clica, Johnny Degollado y Su Conjunto, Los Monarcas de Pete y Mario Diaz and Mingo Saldivar y Sus 4 Espades. On Oct. 26, music again begins at 4 p.m. and will highlight Crystal N Crew, Chano Cadena y Su Conjunto, Los Layton, Los Fantasmas del Valle and Los Dos Gilbertos. For vendor/booth information, contact Yolanda Lopez at 571-3325, or for other information, Rogelio T. Nunez at 367-0335. No outside beverages or food allowed. Admission is $5 per day. The public should bring their own chairs for seating. October 31 It’s time for “Freaks, Best & Treats” with DJ BL3ND for an outdoor concert at State Farm Arena in Hidalgo. The party starts at 7 p.m. and runs until 2 a.m. General admission tickets are $33 or $48 for VIP. Tickets on sale at ticketmaster.com or by calling 800-745-3000. November 1 Tunes by the Trail returns with a night of music and fun from 7 to 9 p.m. at the WH Heavin Amphitheater, 705 N. Bowie, San Benito, offering Oldies, country and other arieties of music. Admission is free. November 1- 2 Settle in to “Make A New Friend” in the new Sesame Street Live production coming to State Farm Arena in Hidalgo. Performances are held at different times each date. Tickets range from $15 to $28 for ages 1 year and up, with packages offering pre-show meet-and-greets

and premium seating. Go to ticketmaster.com or call 800745-3000 for more details and to purchase tickets. November 1-2 The fourth Dia de los Muertos Festival at the International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) is planned from 9 a.m. to 5p.m. on Nov. 1 and 1 to 5 p.m. on Nov. 2. IMAS is located at 1900 Nolana. Activities include the opening of “Memories” honoring Sam Z. Coronado. Visitors can decorate sugar skulls, work with paper maché, hop into the Catrina photo booth, line up for face painting and more.There will be dance performances and a sand painting demonstration by Shinzaburo Takera, a lecture on curanderos and folk healing and a print making demonstration. Visitors on Sunday are encouraged to come dressed for the Catrina costume contest. The event is included in the regular price of admission each day, and IMAS members always get in for free. For more information, call 682-0123. November 7 Doors open at 7 p.m. for the John Anderson and Mark Chestnutt anniversary concert at the Pharr Events Center, 3000 N. Cage. Tickets are $20 general admission and $37 for reserved seating. Call 800-745-3000 or go to ticketmaster.com to purchase. November 8 The opening reception for the Upper Valley Art League’s next exhibit, “Beams of Light,” takes place in the UVAL gallery on Saturday, Nov. 8, from 7 to 9 p.m. The themed exhibit captures the essence of the interplay of beams of light. Each piece is an original work of art captured in a variety of mediums, including photography. The public is invited to the free event. Light refreshments will be served. UVAL is located in the Kika De La Garza Fine Arts Center, 921 E. 12th St. in Mission. Call 583-2787 for further information.

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Political forum highlights differences during early voting

By Julie Silva bout the only thing U.S. Ruben Hinojosa and challenger Eddie Zamora agreed on during a recent political forum is that veterans need better healthcare. Zamora, a Republican, said with two sons in the military, the wait times for veterans to receive healthcare service is unacceptable, while Hinojosa, a Democrat, said he was dismayed to learn of the break down at the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, and he’s working to fix it. Meanwhile, as expected, the two men were sharply divided on hot-button topics like immigration and abortion during the forum hosted Monday by the Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce at South Texas College. When allowed to ask one another a question, Zamora asked Hinojosa how he could support abortion. Hinojosa said this is the fifth time Zamora’s run against him and his stance hasn’t changed. “I don’t personally believe in abortion, but it is the law,” Hinojosa said “Roe versus Wade was passed and tested through the Supreme Court, and …” Zamora cut in, “But you voted to pay for it with our tax dollars.” “Please don’t interrupt me,” Hinojosa said. “It is the law, and I believe the decision should be between a woman and her doctor. “What our audience wants to know is how are we going to create high-paying jobs,” Hinojosa said, changing the subject, saying that education is key.

Early voting schedule

U.S. Rep. Ruben Hinojosa, left, and Eddie Zamora face off in a political forum Monday, hosted by the Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

Friday, Oct. 24, through Sat., Oct. 25: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sun., Oct. 26: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Mon., Oct. 27, through Fri., Oct. 31: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Locations But Zamora wasn’t stymied. In his rebuttal, he said, “Most people who are Christians, we believe that innocent human life begins the moment of conception, and they have inalienable rights, among them life, not abortion, life. “You have to be born first, and then we can educate you,” Zamora added.” For his part, Hinojosa asked Zamora what he would do for a healthcare policy if the Affordable Care Act is eliminated. Zamora said Obamacare will look like the veterans health care system when fully implemented. Patients are dying because they’re on a waiting list, he said, adding that while some parts of the act may be helpful, the key to health care is preventative measures and early detection. Hinojosa said Zamora sounds a lot like the minority who were against things like Social Security and Medicaid years ago. On immigration reform, Hinojosa said it’s amazing to him that a bill was passed in the Senate and yet can’t be brought to the floor in the House of Representatives

for a vote. The immigration system is broken, he said, and the United States’ workforce population is aging and reliant on young immigrant workers. But Zamora said there are plenty of ports and bridges for immigrants to enter the country illegally, “and respect our laws and our plans for immigration.” “When we have 90 million people out of work, I question whether there are jobs that Americans won’t do,” Zamora said. On a related note, to ease congestion on the border, Zamora said the U.S. needs to increase Border Patrol and immigration officers to ensure all trucks coming across are inspected properly. He said he would be for increasing Border Patrol and Immigration and Customs Enforcement. “It’s obvious to me that my opponent is very poorly informed,” Hinojosa responded, saying that the number of Border Patrol agents has increased 350 percent since the turn of the century. “We don’t need Border Patrol agents, what we need is the blue uniforms to speed up commerce.”

When candidates for the 92nd District Court were brought up to debate, Rafael Soto, with the STC, said Democrat Luis Singleterry sent Soto a text 15 minutes prior to say he wouldn’t make it to the forum. That left Jaime Tijerina, a Republican appointed by Gov. Rick Perry, the floor. Tijerina said partisan politics has little to do with his position when a moderator pointed out if elected, Tijerina would be the first Republican in recent history elected to a statewide office in Hidalgo County, Instead, Tijerina said he lives by a set of values instilled in him through his 25 years of serving in the Army: Loyalty, duty, respect, service, honor, integrity and personal courage. The words are taped to the inside of his bench, Tijerina said. “I’ll work every day to uphold those values,” he said. “I can’t really speak for anybody else.” Sheriff candidates Three of the four candidates for sheriff showed up to the forum, and those in attendance expressed frustration that Democrat Eddie Guerra, appointed sheriff by

the Hidalgo County Commissioners Court after Lupe Treviño stepped down, did not attend. When give the chance to ask one another questions, Vince Ousley, Libertarian candidate, said their questions weren’t for each other, but for Guerra. Ousley said his question came from the nomination process within the Democratic Party over the summer when Guerra alleged that another candidate, Frank Guerrero, gave Guerra a $10,000 check in exchange for a job. Ousley said he wanted to know why no charges were filed. Write-in candidate Geovani Hernandez wanted to know why Guerra keeps saying he’s the most qualified candidate when that’s not true, and Republican Al Perez wanted to know why Guerra accepted the sheriff appointment when commissioners court did not interview anyone for the open spot. For the most part, the three candidates critiqued Guerra’s performance as sheriff since his appointment. Hernandez, who currently serves as La Joya police chief, said nobody is patrolling the

Alton City Hall Commission Chambers, 509 S. Alton Blvd. La Joya Youth Service Center, 624 Salomon Chapa Mission City Hall Community Room, 1201 E. Eighth St. Mission Boys and Girls Club Gym at Bannworth Park, 1822 N. Shary Road Palmhurst Church of Christ, 1410 E. 3 Mile Road Palmview County Commissioner Pct. 3, 724 N. Breyfogle Road Peñitas Meeting Room Annex, 1320 S. Main St. Sullivan City Fire Station, 500 Cenizo

county right now, and his department recently had to respond to a hostage situation involving three immigrants in county jurisdiction because the county didn’t have the deputies to respond. Perez, who retired from the sheriff’s office shortly after Guerra was appointed, said there were times when he as a sergeant was patrolling the entire west side of the county with only two deputies. • Both Ousley and Perez said if elected, they’d create a citizen review board, and Hernandez said right away he would replace about 15 high-ranking officers.

opinion

October 24, 2014 page 4A www.progresstimes.net NEWS | SPORTS | ENTERTAINMENT | PHOTOS BY JIM BRUNSON • PUBLISHER, PROGRESS TIMES

By Ed Sterling Texas Press Association

STATE CAPITAL HIGHLIGHTS

USTIN — With early voting in Texas only days away, the U.S. Supreme Court on Oct. 18 let stand a U.S. Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals order, thereby allowing Texas’ 2011 voter identification law to remain in force for the time being. Civil rights plaintiffs in Veasey et al. v. Perry et al. sought to have portions of the law declared unenforceable on constitutional grounds. In a Corpus Christi federal courtroom, U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos struck down the law and ordered the state to return to election law practices in place before the Legislature passed the law in 2011. The law, Ramos wrote, intentionally discriminates against Hispanics and blacks in violation of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 and is tantamount to a “poll tax” because of the cost to acquire any of the various acceptable forms of photo identification that a voter is required to present at the polls, in addition to a voter registration certificate, in order to cast an election ballot. Ramos ordered the state to submit any proposed amendments to the election law to her. The State of Texas appealed and the Fifth Circuit granted the state’s petition to let the law stand. The plaintiffs then turned to the Supreme Court for redress, and were rebuffed. Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg wrote a dissenting opinion in support of the plaintiffs’ assertion of unconstitutional effects of the Texas law. Ginsburg was joined in her dissent by Justices Sonia Sotomayor and Elena Kagan. Majority support of the Texas law, however, came from the other six: Chief Justice John Roberts and Justices Sam-

uel Alito, Stephen Breyer, Anthony Kennedy, Antonin Scalia and Clarence Thomas. But the six produced no written opinion in support of the State of Texas. Abortion provisions on hold In a 6-3 ruling, the U.S. Supreme Court on Oct. 14 put a hold on two requirements of Texas’ 2013 abortion law that reportedly have resulted in the closure of 34 out of the 41 abortion-providing facilities in the state: 1. That abortion facilities meet the same standards as ambulatory surgical centers; and 2. Doctors who perform abortions at clinics in El Paso and McAllen need not have active admitting privileges at a hospital not further than 30 miles from the location at which the abortion is performed or induced. In taking this action, the high court temporarily suspends a two-week-old ruling by the U.S. Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals that allowed those portions to stand. Meanwhile, the constitutionality of the entire 2013 Texas abortion law is under review in the Fifth Circuit. Texas job growth sets record Texas Workforce Commission on Oct. 19 announced the Texas economy added 36,400 seasonally adjusted total non-farm jobs in September and over the last 12 months added 413,700 total non-farm jobs. Also, the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate fell to 5.2 percent in September, down from 5.3 percent in August and down from the 6.3 percent rate recorded in September 2013. Furthermore, the agency noted, the seasonally adjusted civilian labor force pop-

ulation in Texas topped 13 million for the first time in September at 13,005,600 individuals. Governor to appear Oct. 31 Gov. Rick Perry, through his legal defense team last week, said he plans to be present for an Oct. 31 pre-trial hearing in the courtroom of visiting State District Judge Bert Richardson. Perry faces a two-count felony indictment for abuse of office and official coercion, relating to his threat to veto the funding of the state’s Public Integrity Unit if the unit’s director, Travis County District Attorney Rosemary Lehmberg, did not resign after her arrest for drunken driving in 2013. Lehmberg ignored the threat and Perry vetoed the Public Integrity Unit’s $7.5 million budget. This prompted a criminal complaint against the governor that resulted in a Travis County grand jury indictment. Judge Richardson allowed Perry to skip a scheduled pre-trial hearing on Oct. 13 because of a previous engagement: an economic development trip to Europe. Perry’s legal team is expected to present motions asking Richardson to quash the indictments at the Oct. 31 hearing. October: ‘Hog Out Month’ Texas Department of Agriculture calls October “Hog Out Month” because it comes in the middle of the agency’s 2014 Coordinated Hog Out Management Program that runs from Sept. 1 to Nov. 30. It’s a county-by-county, statewide, grant-supported effort to cut the feral hog population. Some 2.6 million of these wild swine cause an estimated $500 million in damage in rural and urban Texas each year, the Agriculture Department said.

Perry calls for travel ban from ebola outbreak countries

ov. Rick Perry announced the first recommendations issued by the Texas Task Force on Infectious Disease Preparedness and Response. Perry created the task force, headed by Dr. Brett P. Giroir, earlier this month to assess the state’s readiness and ability to respond to Ebola and other infectious diseases. Citing the need to stop Ebola before it comes to the United States, Perry also called on President Obama to enact an air travel ban from countries affected by Ebola outbreak, a message he conveyed directly to the President during a telephone call. Perry has previously called for enhanced medical screening at all ports of entry, as well as quarantine facilities

to ensure public safety. “Air travel is how this disease crosses borders, and it’s certainly how it got here to Texas,” Perry said. “Based on recent and ongoing developments, I believe it is the right policy to ban air travel from countries that have been hit hardest by the Ebola outbreak, provided there’s an exception for aid workers to continue their important work fighting this disease.” Among the initial recommendations being made by the task force to enhance our state’s preparedness and response to infectious disease are: • Establishment of two Ebola Treatment Centers in Texas; • Establishment of specialized patient transport

his report just in as of press time Thursday morning. Elections administrator Yvonne Ramon says absentee ballots by mail are pouring into the Hidalgo County Elections office in unprecedented numbers. Those who know, say the reason is politiqueras who have previously been able to corrupt the vote through both absentee ballots and by “assisting” voters at the polls are focusing much more heavily on the absentee ballot due to the voter ID requirement. Voter ID makes it harder for the walking dead and other illegal voters to cast a ballot. So, it is very important that everyone goes out and votes. The greater the legal voter turnout, the less impact the politiquera-driven illegal votes will have on the outcome of the elections. Make the difference. Go out and vote TODAY! Encourage your friends, family and co-workers to do the same. Politics or Principles It’s really very simple. If you want good government, elect good people. If you’re happy with corrupt elected officials and growing corruption in our society, then the character of the candidate or elected official is of no consequence. Two local candidates stand out from the rest in this November 4 election: Judge Jaime Tijerina of the 92nd District Court and Vince Ousley, candidate for Hidalgo County Sheriff, who seeks to clean up the department following former Sheriff Lupe Trevino’s conviction. Judge Tijerina, in Tuesday night’s candidate forum hosted by the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce at STC, again asked voters to look at his record of service, his experience and his values. He has been a lawyer for almost 20 years, a prosecutor for 12 years, and as a Lt. Col. in the U.S. Army Reserves he

earned two Bronze Stars for his service in Iraq and Afghanistan. He speaks often of the “core values” he learned in the Army and uses those values as a guide in his daily duties as a district judge. “Those are the values I use everyday. I have them taped to my bench, and I work on them,” he said. “Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity and Personal Courage.” The Republican incumbent also said partisan politics really have nothing to do with the district judge’s office. We don’t make policy. I fulfill my obligation to the people of this county by being loyal to the laws of this state and this nation. It’s about electing the right person, he said. I agree, it is all about electing the right person – the person with integrity and character. Tijerina’s Democrat opponent did not show up for the forum. Disappointing. Sheriff’s Race Interim Sheriff and candidate Eddie Guerra also texted the debate organizers just before the event stating he would not attend the forum Tuesday. Too bad. This attitude is disrespectful of the voters who look to forums such as this to get to know their candidates. After Democrat Sheriff Lupe Trevino was sentenced to prison in July, you have to wonder how Democrat candidate Guerra will fare in an election where corruption is uppermost on the minds of voters. Guerra didn’t clean house after he was appointed interim sheriff. And now he’s a no-show? Present were sheriff candidates, Al Perez (Republican), Vince Ousley (Libertarian) and Geovanni Hernandez (Independent). In sharp contrast to the other two candidates present Tuesday, Ousley’s answers were direct and to the point. Al Perez and Hernandez

tended to ramble without really answering the questions posed to them. However, Ousley’s answers demonstrated his knowledge, training and understanding of the law. He is the only one who provided answers that cited clearly his duty and authority as a State of Texas peace officer. As an example, when the sheriff candidates were asked whether local peace officers are prepared to handle situations involving veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, Geovanni rambled on about how he has been in Kosovo and Afghanistan, acknowledging the problem exists, but he never answered the question. Perez’s answer was similarly vague. But Ousley clearly stated, “Yes, we do handle those situations differently.” Every peace officer in the State of Texas is required to attend crisis intervention training where they learn to deal with those suffering from a range of mental illnesses including PTSD, he explained. It makes you wonder if the other candidates slept through the class. Or maybe they skipped that one. Each time I observe Ousley at one of these forums, I am impressed by not only his superior knowledge of the law and how to apply it properly, but by his intelligence, which is demonstrated by his ability to quickly focus on the question and give a clear, intelligent answer. Couple this with his character and solid foundation based on faith in God, and we have the very man we need to clean up the Sheriff’s Department and stop corruption in its tracks. Vince is the only one who has come forward with a clear, effective plan on how to weed out corrupt members of the Sheriff’s Department. For a clearer understanding of the man and his ideas, visit his website at www.ousleyforsheriff.com.

teams; • Expanded training of infectious disease protocols for health care workers; • More testing labs for infectious disease; and • Increased authority for DSHS chief to issue Enforceable Control Orders. “The Task Force is providing technical recommendations to the operational teams responsible for the Ebola response in Dallas, on topics ranging from decontamination to options for experimental therapeutics,” said Giroir, CEO of Texas A&M Health Science Center. “The Task Force’s objectives are broad, and will require substantial inquiry to completely meet our charge, but there are key issues that deserve immediate attention.”

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

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lifestyle Citrus Fiesta Tangerine Court selected The new 65th Princess Anna, who will reign over the Tangerine Court of the 2015 Texas Citrus Fiesta, was crowned last Saturday at the Mission Community Center. She is Mia Isabella Ayala (center), daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Andres Ayala of Mission. The other members of the court and their titles are, left to right, Carolina Isabel Gonzalez, Red Grapefruit Blossom, daughter of Celso and Jessica Gonzalez Jr.; Kylie Noel Muñoz, Lemon Blossom, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Humberto A. Muñoz, Harlingen; Miss Ayala; Amanda Nicole Tijerina, Lime Blossom, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Art Tijerina, Mission; and Alexis Lorenn Garcia, Tangerine Blossom, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Alex Garcia, Mission. Not shown, is first alternate, Madison Lee Garcia, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Omar Garcia of Mission. The Mission Lions Foun-

Lions serving BBQ this Sunday

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.

dation is holding their annual “Top Sirloin Bar-B-Que” with all the trimmings: sirloin beef, coleslaw, beans, bread and condiments. The meal is carry-out only and set for Sunday, Oct. 26. Serving time is 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Hidalgo County Pavilion on South Inspiration Road, Mission. Tickets are $7 each and may be purchased from any Mission Lions Club member, or at the Progress Times, 1217 N. Conway, Mission. Call Jim Brunson at 5854893 or Minnie Rodgers, Lions Club president, for tickets or more information.

Halloween Safety Fair is Oct. 30

Mission Regional Medical Center will host their annual Halloween Safety Fair next Thursday, Oct. 30, from 5 to 7 p.m. The public is invited to come out for the music, candy, games and prizes and the costume contests. For the costume contest, there will be 25 entries per age category: infants, age birth to 2; toddlers, 3 to 5; Tweens, 6 to 12; and teens, 13 to 18. Fingerprint identification will be available from the Mission Police Department to the first 1000 children. MRMC is located at 900 S. Bryan Rd. in Mission.

October 24, 2014 page 6A www.progresstimes.net NEWS | SPORTS | ENTERTAINMENT | PHOTOS

Local duchesses announced for 2015 Citrus Fiesta The Mission and Sharyland duchesses were presented at last Saturday’s crowning of the Tangerine Court of the 2015 Texas Citrus Fiesta. They were selected previously through an interview process, and Saturday was their formal presentation as members of the Royal Court. They are, left to right, Reyna Lara, Duchess of Mandarin Orange (Sharyland), daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Feliciano Lara, Mission; Mykenzie Martinez, Rio Red Grapefruit, Oscar and Missye Martinez, Mission; Victoria Torres, Oleander, Mr. and Mrs. Victor Torres, Mission; Izabella Peralez, Honeydew Melon, Noe and Marisela Peralez, Mission; Haley Milam, Star Ruby Grapefruit, Brian and Jackie Milam, McAllen; Isabella Farias, City of Mission-Sister Cities, Mr. and Mrs. Joe Farias, Mission; Zenaida Alaniz, Ruby Red Grapefruit, Mr. and Mrs. Ruben Alaniz, Mission; and Cassidy Long, Pink Grapefruit (Sharyland) , Mr. and Mrs. Roy Long, Mission. Not present were Abbie Respondek, Marsh White Seedless Grapefruit (Sharyland), Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Respondek, Mission; and Samantha Lauren Peña, Butterfly, Dr. Raul and Suzanne Peña, Mission.

JDA Gala organizing committee The Juan Diego Academy’s Fourth Annual Gala is just around the corner on Saturday, Nov. 1. The largest fundraiser each year, the funds raised will be used toward classroom construction for its growing student body. Committee members are, left to right, Silvia Camara, Stephanie Seiba, Ania Janik and Beatriz Gonzalez. Celebrating a theme of “Botanica,” the beauty of God’s creations, the festivities begin at 6 p.m. with a reception and live music followed by a dinner and silent and live auctions. JDA students will be featured as greeters, table escorts and a special performance will be given by the new JDA Dance Class. Live auction items include a trip to Florida, pearl necklace and earrings and more. Sponsorships and tickets are still available by calling the school office at 583-2752.

Donation goes the extra mile—and more When the students and staff at Leal Elementary School began to work on a fundraising and awareness event for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, they set a goal of $2,000. Their activities ended with a special Pink Walk the morning of Friday, Oct. 17. The students and staff ended up going the extra mile and then some in their efforts. That morning, along with a few parents, they gathered with pride as Trinidad Peña, principal, presented a check for $4,500 to officials from Mission Regional Medical Center. The students then took a commemorative walk on campus grounds, many carrying handmade signs in memory or support of family and friends who have battled breast cancer.

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Events Calendar

Oct ober 25 – Meet Benito Treviño, South Texas ethnobotanist, who will share the many uses of native plants that have been a part of his heritage growing up in Rio Grande City. His presentation is part of Native Plant Day from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset in McAllen. There will be a series of presentations and tours by John and Carol Goolsby, Ann Vacek, Stephanie Galla, Don Vacek, Mike Heep and Sandi Milford. Regular admission fees apply: $3 adults, $2 seniors and children. For information, visit www.quintamazatlan.com or call 681-3370. Oct ober 25 – Take a guided kayak tour of the Laguna Madre from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. sponsored by the Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge, 22688 Buena Vista Blvd., Los Fresnos. Learn basic kayaking skills. All equipment and training provided. Cost is $30 for adults and $25 for ages 8 to 12. Call 748-3607, Ext. 111, to make a reservation. Oct ober 30 – Buckets of Fun, “Fun with Hollows,” runs from 10 to 11 a.m. at Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset in McAllen, for preschool children and their parents. Admission is $3 for adults and $2 for kids and seniors. Learn “All about Bats” with Martha and Katherine Jones from 6 to 7 p.m. Admission is $3 per person. Call 681-3370 for more information. Oct ober 31 – Create a sugar skull pumpkin for “Family Fun Night” at the International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 Nolana in McAllen. It will be held in the old art studio from 4 to 6 p.m. Seating is limited. Cost is regular admission price plus $2 for supplies. Admission for IMAS members is always free. Call 682-0123 for information. Oct ober 31-November 2 – The Mission High School Class of ’65 will celebrate its 50th reunion during the Eagles’ homecoming weekend. Payment deadline is Oct. 20. The Friday homecoming activities include the MHS exes reception, pep rally and Eagles homecoming game against Lincoln-Juarez High School. An after game party will conclude Friday’s reunion festivities. A dinner and reunion celebration will take place Saturday evening at Balli’s Social Events Center in Mission. Sunday brunch will be at La Casa del Taco. For costs, to register or more information, email MissionHigh65@aol.com or call 424-6381.

November

Nov ember 1 – Juan Diego Academy is holding its Fourth Annual Gala fundraiser at the campus, 5208 S. FM 494 in Mission. This year’s theme, “Botanica,” celebrates times gone by. It begins at 6 p.m. and features a reception with live music, dinner, silent and live auctions and entertainment by the JDA Dance Class. Individual tickets are $100 per person, and sponsorships range from $500 to $5,000. Proceeds will help with construction of new classrooms. Call the school office at 583-2753 for tickets, sponsorships or information. Nov ember 1 – “Dia de los Muertos: Authors’ Night Readings” at the Writers’ Forum begins at 6:30 p.m.at the Narciso Martinez Cultural Arts Center at 225 E. Stenger in San Benito. The Forum promotes a creative group of writers, featuring their skills through talent sharing throughout the year. Participation is free. For more information, call 350-3905. Nov ember 1 – Texas Conjunto Music Hall of Fame and Museum will host the second annual Squeezebox Boom 5K Run and 1-Mile Walk at the Heavin Resaca Trail. Register online at Magic Valley Events.com. Entry fee is $20 for runners and $10 for walkers. Proceeds benefit the Texas Conjunto Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Call Rey Avila at 245-1666 for more information. Nov ember 1 – Dia de los Muertos: Authors’ Night Readings at The Writers’ Forum begins at 6:30 p.m.at the Narciso Martinez Cultural Arts Center at 225 E. Stenger in San Benito. The Forum promotes a creative group of writers, featuring their skills through talent sharing at performances throughout the year. Participation is free. For more information, call 3503905. Nov ember 6 – Explore the hydrophobic world of moon sand for “Family Fun Night” at the International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 Nolana in McAllen. It will be held in the old art studio from 4 to 6 p.m. Seating is limited. Cost is regular admission price plus $2 for supplies. Admission for IMAS members is always free. Call 682-0123 for information. Nov ember 6 - Buckets of Fun, “Fun with Leaves,” runs from 10 to 11 a.m. at Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset in McAllen, for preschool children and their parents. Admission is $3 for adults and $2 for kids and seniors. There will be a movie night featuring “Central Park Effect,” from 6 to 7 p.m. Admission is $3 per person. Call 681-3370 for more information. Nov ember 8 – Alton Elementary School will host its First 5K Run/Walk/Get Colorful event. This will be a color run with the first wave starting at 8 a.m. followed by the next at 8:30 a.m. Participants are asked to arrive an hour prior to the wave time. Registration can be done at Alton Elementary School, 205 N. Chicago, Alton. Early registration through Oct. 24 is $10 for ages 15 and up and $5 for ages 7 to 14. After Oct. 24, registration prices increase $5 for each bracket. T-shirts for the event will be $8. For more information, call 323-7600. Nov ember 8 – The Rio Grande Valley Quilt Guild meets 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at South Texas College, 400 N. Border in Weslaco, Building G, Room 191. Use parking Lot 1. For additional information, call Rene Darkis at 812-890-1572. Nov ember 8 – Market Days in downtown San Benito runs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Batts Street & Railroad Tracks with local vendors, live music and food. Call 361-3804, Ext. 302 or 304, for more information. To see an extended Events Calendar for the coming weeks, go to www.progresstimes.net.

MAE celebrates 60 years of business

“I learned how to fix little motors because I wasn’t going to walk.” scar Cavazos said --Ben Cavazos he’s been the unoffi-

By Lea Victoria Juarez

cial general manger of MAE Power Equipment since the day he was born. He officially earned the title at the family run and owned business in 2000 when his father, Ben Cavazos, stepped down from the position. Formerly known as Mission Auto Electric, the commercial lawn equipment supplier is one of the oldest, if not the oldest, running business in Mission. MAE celebrated their 60th anniversary Oct. 16 with a small gathering of workers, family, friends and city officials. They continued the celebration Oct. 17 at a banquet when distributors traveled from across the nation and Germany for MAE’s diamond commemoration. Founder Ben Cavazos shook hands, posed for photos and swapped stories with his guests at the bratwurst lunch Oct. 16. When the guests cleared out, the 84 year old told his story from his paper-cluttered desk without being prompted. Ben Cavazos learned to fix motors because he had to. When his family moved from Sharyland to McAllen, he wanted to continue attending

SISD. So he transformed his bicycle to a motorcycle with a small motor from his mother’s washing machine. “I learned how to fix little motors because I wasn’t going to walk,” Cavazos said. “So if something went wrong with the motor, I’d stop and figure out what was wrong with it and fix it. So that’s the way I got started working with small engines.” After a stint in a Dickies factory in Fort Worth, and then time in the service, Cavazos returned to Mission where he opened up Mission Auto Electric in October 1954. The company underwent a name change in 2004 because Cavazos decided to drop the automotive repair aspect and focus on lawn equipment. But even with the name change, the service quality has remained constant, a characteristic that Oscar Cavazos picked up from his father. “It’s treating people right and being fair,” the son said. “There’s so many times when I was growing up that I would see him take care of customers and he wouldn’t get agitated. It would be a

calm demeanor and he’d say ‘All right, this is the problem, this is what happened, and this is how we can fix it.’” It’s a reputation that spread from South Padre Island to Zapata, and even pouring into Mexico. Customer loyalty has kept the mom-and-pop shop in business, even though the prices may run a little higher than fast-moving auto parts stores. “That business is not something we look for. It’s something that comes to us because they know our reputation,” Oscar said. “We service from South Padre, Brownsville, but all those people come to us because we give them good service.” Ben’s daughter Martha Cavazos Fipps reminisced about her time growing up in Mission on the business site. She spoke with watery eyes and a smile as she thought back to the past celebrations. “As a kid, I would come and work,” she said with air quotes and a chuckle. “My job was to count the money in the coke machines and to

See MAE 10A

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MCISD

By Lea Victoria Juarez

Peñitas commission appoints mayor, mayor pro tem

By Julie Silva E Ñ I TA S – A n t o n i o “Tony” Flores Jr. was sworn in as mayor Wednesday night. Formerly mayor pro tem, Flores was appointed mayor by the Peñitas City Commission after the city formally accepted the resignation of former mayor Marcos Ochoa, who was appointed Justice of the Peace, Pct. 3, Place 2 by the Hidalgo County Commissioners Court last week. Former Justice of the Peace Ismael “Melo” Ochoa, no relation, resigned abruptly from the seat earlier this month. As Melo Ochoa is the only name for the spot on the November ballot, county officials said he’ll need to resign again in January. Marcos Ochoa served

ission CISD is looking to construct a new administration building. The district conducted a feasibility study with EGV architects and Javier Hinojosa Engineering to see where the structure would fit on the current property. Post-study, they met with city officials and determined the new central office would be built in the parking lot east of the administration building. “We have the option of building a single-story or a two-story building in that area,” said Rick Rivera, the Mission Consolidated Independent School District executive director for facilities and maintenance construction. “So what we’re bringing forward is for the board to approve the project, which they did, and an estimated total construc-

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eyes new admin building

tion budget of $9.5 million, which includes…the soft cost.” The next step is to draw up a schematic design and then go into design development. Rivera said they hope to break ground in summer 2015 and move into the new building by the start of the 2016 school year. Rivera explained that the building will be slightly larger than the current facility and have a different design compared to the former hospital turned school building. The new design will cut down on unnecessary square footage and have a better utilization of space. “Throughout the years it’s been renovated several times, and we’ve made offices out of operating rooms and we’ve made storage rooms out of restrooms,” Rivera said. “So the new design will incorporate a different set up where we’ll

have a lot more open spaces with cubicles and not individual offices.” The facility was built in the 1950s and renovated three separate times as a hospital before the school district obtained it in the late 1980s. When the board was looking at possibly renovating, they found that building an entirely new structure was more cost effective. Some of the problems the current building has are rusted pipes, falling insulation, cracked walls and a roof that needs replacing. Rivera said contractors and engineers put a $4 million price tag on a new chiller system alone. The project will be funded through a lease revenue bond, which is a form of long-term borrowing the state uses to finance public improvements. It allows for lower interest rate and may be authorized without voter approval.

tival is a wonderful opportunity for enthusiasts and people who are just beginning to enjoy nature,” said Marianna Wright, Executive Director of the National Butterfly Center. “We really are the butterfly capital of the country with over 300 species that may be found in the lower Rio Grande Valley. We also have a variety of sub-tropical birds and this is the best time of the year to observe the colorful migratory songbirds as well.” The National Butterfly Park is strategically located in one of the most biologically diverse regions of North America. The Rio Grande Valley is unique in that there are 11 different habitats including tidal wetlands and riparian forest that provide homes or migratory stopping points for 500 species of birds, 200 vertebrate species, 300 species of butterflies and 90 species of dragonflies. The event starts with registration on Saturday, Nov. 1,

starts Nov. 1

19th Annual Texas Butterfly Festival

TOP: Marcos Ochoa, new justice of the peace and former mayor of Peñitas, left, swears in Antonio “Tony” Flores Jr. Wednesday as the new mayor. ABOVE: Ochoa, left, swears in Tomas Cedillo as Peñitas mayor pro tem.

10 years as a commissioner in Peñitas and six years as mayor. “That’s been the success of the city, the committees working with us,” Marcos Ochoa told the crowd Wednesday night. “They’re going to do a great job also

themselves. They’ve got a lot of work ahead of them to make this city better, and I think they will.” Flores will serve as mayor until the city’s May election. The city commission also appointed Tomas Cedillo as mayor pro tem.

all is here and the amazing butterfly migration is underway in the Rio Grande Valley. Along with the butterfly migration comes the 19th Annual Texas Butterfly Festival where butterfly enthusiasts from all across the country gather to enjoy the beauty of nature in her colorful array. The festival runs Nov. 1-4 at the the National Butterfly Park, 3333 Butterfly Park Drive, in Mission, featuring field trips and tours to butterfly and birding hotspots all across the Rio Grande Valley. In addition, a range of seminars will be held for beginners as well as for seasoned veteran butterfliers who wish to learn more about butterflies and the unique habitat offered by the Rio Grande Valley of Texas. Early registration is encouraged, as many of the field trips and seminars will be filled as the event draws near. “The Texas Butterfly Fes-

from 1 to 6 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Express on South Shary Road in Mission. A reception will also be held at the Holiday Inn Express beginning at 6 p.m. so that participants have an opportunity to meet each other. Sunday through Tuesday, a number of field trips will take place, all leaving from the National Butterfly Park. They include Photographing Butterflies, Birds & Bugs with Luciano Guerra, The Butterfly Beltway with John Rosford & Audrey Harvey, Butterfly Basics with Buck and Linda Cooper, and Landscaping for Butterflies 2013 with Pat Sutton and Audrey Harvey. This tour is a repeat of last year’s tour that was so popular, participants asked for it to be brought back.

See BUTTERFLIES 13A

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Buckner Family Hope Center accepting La Joya ISD receives superior financial rating students, mentors in Peñitas area

By Julie Silva

uckner Children and Family Services welcomes the Peñitas community to attend the start of a new training course titled Jobs for Life. The 16week course will begin on Oct. 27 and take place every Monday from 10 a.m. – noon at the Buckner Family Hope Center, at 39614 Mile 7 Road. Jobs for Life will guide participants through a cur-

riculum that teaches timeless job readiness principles while helping individuals identify their skills and talents so that they can determine what types of jobs they are best suited for. Students will learn essential skills such as job search basics, how to build a resume, complete an application, and interview with confidence. The class will prepare participants to think long-term

and overcome discouraging roadblocks. “Our hope is that Jobs for Life participants will graduate from the course motivated to make a difference in the workplace,” said Jana Henriquez, Buckner Family Hope Center community coordinator and Jobs for Life instructor. “The lack of motivation is one of the critical

AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry has appointed Roberto Dominguez of Elsa and reappointed Elizabeth “Christy” Jack of Fort Worth to the Governing Board of the Office of Violent Sex Offender Management for terms to expire Feb. 1, 2016. The office performs functions relating to the sex offender civil commitment program. Dominguez is chief of the Mission Police Department. He is a member of the Texas Police Chief’s Association, Rio Grande Valley Border Chiefs Coalition, Lower Rio Grande Valley Development Council (LRGVDC) Regional Police Academy Advisory

Board, and City of Mission Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Board. He is coordinator of the Mission Traffic Safety Committee, and a past member of the LRGVDC Homeland Security Grant Review and Appropriations Subcommittee. He is also a three-year trustee of the Knights of Columbus Council No. 9698, a member of HEROs – Helping Emergency Responders Organization Program, and a member of and volunteer for Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Elsa. Dominguez received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas– Pan American.

Jack is deputy chief of the Tarrant County District Attorney’s Office. She is a member of the State Bar of Texas and the Criminal Justice Council, and a member and past training chair of the Texas District and County Attorneys Association. She is also past president of the Texas Christian University Kinderfrogs School Parent Teacher Association. Jack received a bachelor's degree from Baylor University and a law degree from the Texas Tech University School of Law. She will continue to serve as presiding officer of the board for a term to expire at the pleasure of the governor.

See BUCKNER 10A

Gov. Perry appoints Mission police chief to governing board of the Office of Violent Sex Offender Management

a Joya ISD received a superior achievement under the state’s school finance accountability rating system for the 20122013 school year. It was one of 30 school districts in Texas Education Agency’s Region 1 to earn the highest distinction under the First Integrity Rating System of Texas. Other districts with superior achievement include Sharyland Independent School District and Mission Consolidated ISD. Five districts in Region 1 were named above standard, one was rated standard and one district was rated substandard. No districts in Region 1 were suspended because of data quality. The report includes 20 indicators, and if a district answers “No” to any of the first four, that district will automatically receive a substandard achievement rating. The first indicator asks if the total fund balance and restricted fund balance are greater than zero. As of Aug. 31, 2013, the general fund balance at La Joya ISD was reported as $109 million. The second indicator asks if the unrestricted net assets are greater than zero. La Joya ISD’s net asset balance in August 2013 was

about $73 million. The third indicator ensures the district has not defaulted on its bond payments, and the fourth indicator asks if the district’s financial report was filed by the deadline.

Superintendent Alda Benavides also listed $11,614 of reimbursements for the 2012-2013 school year. Board member Joel Garcia

See LJISD 13A

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South Texas Indian Dancers

POW WOW Years ago, the Lipan Apache Indians were among the Native American tribes that roamed the area. Today, the Apache culture is being preserved by the South Texas Indian Dancers with their sponsor Robert Soto, a descendant of the Lipan Apache Indians. The South Texas Indian Dancers will host their 25th annual South Texas (Way South) Pow Wow at the McAllen Creative Incubator, 601 N. Main, McAllen Oct.

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24-25. A variety of Indian dances will be performed throughout the event that starts of Friday, Oct. 24, at 6:30 p.m. with the Grand Entry. On Saturday, Oct. 25, Exhibition Dance begins at 11 a.m. Gourd dancing is scheduled from 1 to 4 p.m. The main event will be a second Grand Entry starting at 6:30 p.m. where all Indians, from tots to seniors, are in full Indian regalia. There will also be a performance

is Oct 24-25

Photo by Doug Young

by the mother-daughter singing duo, “Sayani.” In addition there will be a cakewalk and sales of American Indian jewelry, dream catchers, and jewelry making supplies along with other items for sale. Winter Texans are invited to stop in and see the performances whether they can only stay one hour or choose to stay the entire day. For more information call Robert Soto at (956) 648-9336.

La Joya ISD: Holding on to history

tepping into museums takes you back in time through exhibitions of nostalgic artifacts. Guests to these galleries of history are able to learn, to explore, and to appreciate the past. The idea of generating this type of interactive experience for the community of La Joya ISD gave way to the newly inaugurated district museum. La Joya ISD Central Administration Building served as the setting for an intimate gathering to commemorate the opening of the La Joya ISD Museum on Oct. 9. Those who have attended La Joya ISD schools can attest to the vast history this school district has. It seemed fit that such an ambitious project be completed so that the students and community could be educated on the rich traditions of La Joya. “This museum is a dream come true,” said Alda Benavides, La Joya ISD superintendent. “This facility is a clear demonstration that we want to preserve our history as a district, and that our district is proactive in urging our students to learn about themselves and their family

MAE

dust off the lawn mowers. I can remember dusting the lawn mowers and getting paid 25 cents to dust them.” The now Dallas resident looked around at the facility, which has slowly expanded since she left 27 years ago and continued to wipe the tears siding down her cheek. “It’s amazing to me that an idea that my dad had back in the 50s that grew from a seed of an operation, a little tiny building with just a couple of employees, has grown

history.” Museum curator Aleyda Guerra has been able to collect academic, administrative, and extra-curricular memorabilia from donors of all ages. Other pieces have been accrued by the district throughout the years. Museum relics range from vintage portraits and yearbooks to antique athletic gear and equipment used in schools. The building that will house all of these historical souvenirs has come a long way since Nellie Leo Schunior School was built in 1926. Today, the city of

La Joya and surrounding communities can visit and take advantage of this new district museum. The cultural center is dedicated to promoting the preservation of La Joya ISD history. Here, visitors can stop and learn about their families’ origin, or meet to reminisce with class reunions. The La Joya ISD Museum is open weekdays 8-5pm and is located at the La Joya ISD Central Administration Building. For more information and upcoming events, call 956-323-2018.

Kool Smiles is coordinating for the third year ‘Operation Troop Treats’, a program designed to give Rio Grande Valley kids’ teeth a post-Halloween break and U.S. troops overseas a sweet reminder of home. Operation Troop Treats encourages children to bring their Halloween candy in to one of the four area Kool

Smiles dental offices in exchange for a toy. The candy will then be sent in care packages to U.S. troops serving overseas via Operation Gratitude. In 2013, Rio Grande Valley children and families donated more than 43 pounds of candy to the local Kool Smiles dental offices. “Operation Troop Treats is our way of reminding kids and parents about the importance of dental hygiene, especially around Halloween and at the same time provides the opportunity for kids to give back to our servicemen and women,” said Kool Smiles Managing Dental Director Dr. D. Ray Gifford, DDS. “The influx of sugar-filled sweets this time of year can disrupt kids’ healthy eating and good dental habits. We don’t want to take the fun out of Trick or Treating–just the

Kool Smiles offers candy exchange to benefit troops

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into a legacy for our family,” the 44-year-old said. Even though both Ben and Oscar Cavazos admit that it is difficult to find people that want to work in this particular field, they don’t see their doors closing anytime soon. “I don't think of us going out of business,” Oscar said. “That’s not something that’s ever crossed my mind. My dad and I have always had the attitude that, as long as you work hard and treat people right, we’ll do well.”

See KOOL SMILES 12A

October 24, 2014

obituaries

Jose Roberto Cavazos ISSION - Jose Roberto Cavazos was born in Mission Texas on March 28, 1931, to Roberto and Isabel Cavazos. He graduated from Mission High School and was a truck driver all his life. He was a member of the Catholic church. Survivors include his wife of 60 years, Dora Cavazos; children, Ruben Cavazos, Jose Cavazos Jr., Belinda Adame, Reynaldo Cavazos, Thelma Fitzgerald, Dr. Norma Cavazos-Salas, Patricia Ramirez and Cynthia Cavazos-Gonzalez; brothers, Carlos and Arturo Cavazos; sisters, Maria Elena and Irma Cavazos; and 18 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Ruben, Jose Israel, René and Guadalupe Javier; and sister, Maria Lucia. The funeral mass was held on Oct. 21 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in Mission. Burial followed at Valley Memorial Gardens in McAllen. Jennifer C. De La Rosa ISSION - Jennifer C. De La Rosa, 37, passed away on Monday, Oct. 20, 2014, at her home in Mission. Mrs. De La Rosa was a graduate of Mission High School and earned her teaching degree from The University of Texas-Pan American. She taught elementary school at Valley View and La Joya ISD. Survivors include her husband, Omar J. De La Rosa of Mission; son, Omar Xavier De La Rosa of Mission; father and stepmother, Oscar and Diamantina Garza Sr. of Harlingen; brother, Oscar Garza Jr. of McAllen, and grandmother Criselda Rivera of Mission. She was preceded in death by her mother, Margarita Cantu Garza; grandfathers, Bruno Garza and Enrique Cantu; and grandmother, Leonor Rosales Cantu. A funeral service was held on Oct. 22 at the funeral home. Burial followed at Valley Memorial Gardens.

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James Alexander Flores DINBURG/MISSION – Army National Guard Specialist James Alexander Flores, 20, of Edinburg, passed away on Thursday, Oct. 16, 2014. He was born on Nov. 5, 1993, in McAllen to Zenaida Flores. He graduated from Sharyland High School in 2012 where he was active in the JROTC program. Upon graduation, he enlisted in the Army National Guard and continued to train as an infantryman where he received various honors and awards. He was also employed by Tomahawk Resources as a casing field hand. He continued to mentor students in the Sharyland JROTC program. Survivors include his daughter, Kelsey Lee Flores; maternal grandmother, Petra Molina; mother, Zenaida, and stepfather, Guadalupe Vasquez; sisters, Savannah Gonzalez-Cabezuela, Krystal Lyles, Dominique Moor and Mackenzie Moore; and brothers, Michael Gonzalez and Alfonso Cuellar. A funeral mass was held on Oct. 21 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Edinburg. Burial with military honors by the Army National Guard followed at Hillcrest Memorial Park Cemetery. Luis F. Gonzalez ISSION - Luis Gonzalez, 78, passed away on Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2014, at Las Palmas Healthcare Center in McAllen. He was born in Mission on Oct. 31, 1935 and was a lifelong resident of Mission. He was proceeded in death by his mother, Isabel Gonzalez; father, Luis Pablo Gonzalez; sisters, Maria Elena Segovia, Maria Luisa De Leon, Maria Manuela Gonzalez and Teresa G. Salinas; and brothers, Jose Gonzalez, Juan Pablo Gonzalez and Simon Gonzalez. A funeral mass was held on Oct. 17 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Mission. Burial followed at San Jose Cemetery in Mission.

Maria Guadalupe Ibarra ISSION – Maria Guadalupe Ibarra, 63, passed away on Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2014, at her home in Mission. Visitation is planned for Friday, Oct. 24, from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. with a 7 p.m. rosary at Virgil Wilson Mortuary in Mission. A funeral mass will be held on Saturday, Oct. 25, at 10 a.m. at Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Mission. Burial will follow at Lord and I Cemetery in Palmview. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Virgil Wilson Mortuary in Mission. Belen G. Mercado

ISSION – Belen G. Mercado, 95, passed away on Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2014, at Mission Regional Medical Center. She was born to the late Juan Godina and Soledad Torres on March 9, 1919, in Mexico. Survivors include her children, Gustavo Mercado of McAllen, Senaida Anzaldua of Dallas, Irma Mercado of Mission, Dora Cantu of New Mexico, Estevan Mercado of Mission, Felix Mercado of Mission, Adelaido Mercado of Mission, Mary Illian of Oregon, Felipe Mercado of Mission, Frances Mercado of Oregon and Joe Mercado of Oregon; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Adelaido Mercado; sons, Luciano and Erasmo; and daughters, Elva and Yolanda Mercado. Visitation will be held on Thursday, Oct. 23, from 2 to 9 p.m. with a 7 p.m. rosary at Virgil Wilson Mortuary in Mission. A funeral service will be held on Friday, Oct. 24, at 10 a.m. at Virgil Wil-

son. Interment will follow at Valley Memorial Gardens in Mission. The online guestbook can be signed at www.virgilwilsonmortuary.com. Angelica C. Navarro A JOYA - Angelica C. Navarro, 78, passed away on Thursday, Oct. 16, 2014, at Lifecare Hospital in McAllen. She was born on Sept. 12, 1936, in Encino to Tomas and Clara Casas. Survivors include her husband, Reynaldo Navarro; children, Alda Britten Dalia De La Garza, Maria Ester Gonzalez and Ray Navarro; siblings, Maria Luisa Solis and Placido Casas; and 14 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. The funeral mass was held on Oct. 20 at San Jose Catholic Church in Havana. Interment followed at Rio Grande Valley State Veterans Cemetery in Mission. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in her memory to San Jose Catholic Church. Jose R. Perez cALLEN/MISSION – Jose R. Perez, 73, passed away on Friday, Oct. 17, 2014, at his home in McAllen. He was born on Jan. 23, 1941, at San Jose Ranch near San Isidro to Leonardo and Benita T. Perez. He served in the U.S. Army from 1964 to 1966. He retired from the USDA with 37 years of service. Mr. Perez served over 39 years as a volunteer fireman with the Mission Fire Dept. He was an active member and past commander of the Catholic War Veterans Post 1065 in Mission, past state commander and national officer of the Catholic War Veterans, active member and past commander of American Legion Post 93 in Mission and past Commander of the VFW Post 3895 in La Joya. Survivors include his wife of 24 years, Maria H. Perez; children, Yvonne Gagnon, Leonard Perez, Liz Clanahan, Becky Perez, Robert Perez and David Rey Perez; stepchildren, Grace Moran, Henry Borjas, Isabell Borjas, Mary Helen Borjas, Mary Ann Borjas and Rafaela Mascorro; siblings, Hilda Cara-

CHURCH OF THE GOOD SHEPHERD 4501 N. McColl. - McAllen CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS 29th & Dove - McAllen 618-0884 CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS Missonaries • 580-2570 CHRISTIAN SCIENCE CHURCH 911 N. Main - McAllen 686-4241 CONWAY AVENUE BAPTIST CHURCH 1 Mi. N. Conway • 585-2413 EL FARO BIBLE CHURCH 15 miles W. of Mission on Exp. 83 Sullivan City, TX • 585-5617 EL MESIAS UNITED METHODIST 209 E. 6th • 585-2334 FAITH BAPTIST CHURCH 3 miles N. Shary Rd. • 581-1465 FAITH FELLOWSHIP BIBLE CHURCH 1 mile N. Exp. 83 on Tom Gill Rd. 519-6311 FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 1300 Doherty • 585-1442 FIRST CHRISTIAN CHURCH 12th and Miller - Mission 585-7281 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1102 Ash St. • 585-4829 for worship schedule. FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 1101 Doherty • 585-1665

NORTH PALMVIEW APOSTOLIC CHURCH 7612 W. 6 Mile Ln. Mission • 735-2569

ROAD TO SALVATION ASSEMBLY OF GOD 239 W. 2nd St. - La Joya 1312 Oblate • 585-3261

OUR LADY QUEEN OF ANGELS One-half mile South Leo Avenue La Joya • 585-5223

SAN CRISTOBAL MAGALLANES & COMPANIONS PARISH

3805 Plantation Grove Blvd., Ste. 5

OUR LADY OF FATIMA CHURCH 6634 El Camino Real • Granjeno 279-4159

SAN MARTIN DE PORRES 5 mi. N. Conway, 1/2 Mile West Alton • 585-8001 & 585-8002

IGLESIA BAUTISTA BETANIA 851 S. Breyfogle Rd. • 585-5688

OUR LADY OF LOURDES CHURCH 2.5 miles S. Conway (FM 1016) Mission • 279-4159

ST. JOHN OF THE FIELDS CATHOLIC CHURCH 1052 Washington Ave. • 585-2325

IGLESIA BAUTISTA CRISTO EL REY 1600 E. Bus. 83 - Mission

OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE CATHOLIC CHURCH 620 Dunlap • 585-2623

IGLESIA BAUTISTA COLONIAL 3713 N. La Homa Rd. • 585-5332

OUR LADY OF THE HOLY ROSARY CHURCH 923 Matamoros St. • 581-2193

ST. PETER & ST. PAUL EPISCOPAL CHURCH 2310 N. Stewart Rd. 585-5005

IGLESIA BAUTISTA DEL VALLE 217 W. Mile 3 Rd. • 424-1602 Palmhurst

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

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

FREEDOM LIFE CHURCH 2214 W. Griffin Pkwy. • 519-7000 Mission GRACIA DIVINA MINISTRY 4122 N. Conway • 584-3112 GREAT OAKS COMMUNITY CHURCH 2722 N. Conway • 451-5500 Mission IGLESIA ADVENTISTA DEL SEPTIMO DIA 1725 W. Griffin Parkway 581-9008

IGLESIA DEL PUEBLO 7500 West Expressway 83 581-1900 IGLESIA DEL DIVINO REDENTOR 1020 North Los Ebanos Rd 585-5898

PEÑITAS BAPTIST CHURCH 1/3 Mile S. of Exp.83 on FM 1427 583-6236 PRIMERA BAPTIST CHURCH Corner of 6th & Oblate 585-4711

LA RESPUESTA CHURCH 405 W. 12th Street • 585-0787

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

MISSION CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1 mi. E. 495 • 585-6683

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

NEW HOPE AT THE BORDER 905 N. Conway • 585-4122

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

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

Commercial Lawn Equipment “Since 1954”

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

KING, GUERRA, DAVIS & GARCIA

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

Notices

Lazaro N. Ponce MISSION - Lazaro N. Ponce, 89, passed away on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2014, at McAllen Medical Center. A funeral mass was held on Oct. 21 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Peñitas. Burial followed at Garden of Angels Cemetery in Abram. Angelica Toral MISSION – A funeral mass for Angelica Toral was held on Friday, Oct. 17, 2014, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Mission. Burial followed at Valley Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Mission. Marcelina Valdez PENITAS - Marcelina Valdez, 84, passed away on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2014, at Mission Regional Medical Center.

Remember these simple safety rules:

1 2 3 4 5

Don’t trick-or-treat alone! Always go in groups, and younger children should always be accompanied by an adult. Beware of confining costumes! Avoid masks that obstruct vision and costumes that restrict movement. Be visible! Carry a flashlight, and apply reflective strips to your costume, so drivers can see you at night. Do not enter! Only accept treats outside the front door never go inside a stranger’s house or car for any reason. No eating! Discard any unwrapped or suspicious looking candy. Have parents inspect all food before eating.

This important safety message courtesy of:

Mission Police Department www.missionpolice.org

956-584-5000

THE SPIRIT OF LA LOMITA LIVES HERE AT

OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE PARISH

Mission • 580-4551

ST. PAUL'S CATHOLIC CHURCH 1119 Francisco • 585-2701

MISSION THE FATHERS: †FR. JIM, FR. PHILION & FR. ROY (†MAGNA, †SENTINEL, †MAGNO, †AUGIE, †DIDYMUS, †CHUNkLY, VALENTINE, NEWLY, BENDITO & FRITZ)

TEMPLO BIBLICO 5 Mile/Conway • 581-4981 or 585-3831 TEMPLO EVANGELICO, M.B. CHURCH La Joya THE DOOR CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP

810 E. Veterans & La Homa Suite F.

Palmview Crossing Plaza 212-1594/424-1984

TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH 3701W. 3 Mile Line • 585-3261 WEST MISSION LUTHERAN FELLOWSHIP Pleasant Valley Ranch 7320 W. Exp. 83 • Mission 583-7667 VALLEY FELLOWSHIP 1708 E. Griffin Parkway Mission • 424-7200

MISSION AUTO ELECTRIC, INC. DBA

ER MAE EPQOU IW PMENT

er and sister, three children, eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild. His remains were cremated with a private family memorial held on Oct. 20.

THE SPIRIT THAT CONQUERS SIN AND DEATH! CELEBRATE LIFE & LOVE WITH US

ChurCh DireCtory BREAD OF LIFE CHURCH 2820 N. Conway Ave. • 581-1411

veo, Ninfa Zamora, and Juan Angel Perez; and 21 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his son, Victor Joe Perez; grandson, J. Michael Perez; and sister, Nina Gerbermann. The funeral mass was held on Oct. 21 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Mission. Burial followed at Rio Grande Valley State Veterans Cemetery in Mission. Pallbearers were Leonard Perez, David Perez, Joseph Fisher, Bobby Moran, Daniel Moran and Mike Gagnon. Honorary pallbearers were Juan Angel Perez, Robert Perez, Octavio Perez, Joe Moran and Charlie Guzman. Arlo Kenneth Zink ISSION – Arlo Kenneth Zink, 77, passed away on Friday, Oct. 17, 2014, at his home. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge, Scottish Rite and Shriners. Survivors include his wife of 58 years, Jeanne, a broth-

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IMPLEMENT COMPANY, INC. MISSION 585-1618

  

 



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

 

PADRES OBLATOS

THE MISSIONARY CATECHIST OF THE POOR: SR. LUPITA THE SISTERS OF ST. DOROTHY: SR. CINDY, SR. COLLEEN DAUGHTERS OF MARY MOTHER OF MERCY: SR. ELIZABETH, SR. BIBIANA & SR. MADONNA †DEACON AYALA, DEACON CASTANEDA

RIVER OF GOD’ S LOVE RUNS THROUGH THE STORY OF OUR LIVES. WE SAIL OUR VESSEL FROM LONELINESS TO SOLITUDE, FROM HOSTILITY TO HOSPITALITY, AND FROM ILLUSION TO PRAYER. LIFE IS A DANCE! WE LEARN AS WE GO! (JOHN MICHAEL MONTGOMERY)

“Texas Friendly” spoken at all masses (and confessions). Saturday (English) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4:00 P.M. Saturday (Spanish) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7:00 P.M. Sunday (Spanish) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7:30 A.M. Sunday (English) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9:00 A.M. Sunday (English) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10:30 A.M. Sunday (Tex-Mex) Mariachi Mass . . .(Noon)12:30 P.M. Sunday (Tex-Mex) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5:30 P.M. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday (Tex-Mex)6:55 A.M. Thursday (Tex-Mex) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7:00 P.M.

CONFESSIONS

Thursday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6:00 P.M. Saturday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3:00 P.M.

620 DUNLAP, MISSION, TX • 585-2623 ONE BLOCK WEST OF CONWAY ON MAGNA DRIVE (6TH ST.)

page 12A

www.progresstimes.net | www.sharylandtimes.com

Volunteers needed for VITA The United Way of South Texas has named Michelle Lea Zamora as chair of the first Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) committee. The focus is on recruiting volunteers and securing corporate funds to open 10 to 12 centers that will provide free income tax return preparation for families in Hidalgo and Starr Counties that earn

KOOL SMILES

cavities!” In addition to the exchange program, Kool Smiles is donating 100 dental care packages for troops, as well as the funds to cover the assembly and shipment of 200 care packages. The Rio Grande Valley Kool Smiles offices are participating from Wednesday, Oct. 29, to Wednesday, Nov. 5, during open office hours. Every child that comes in can receive one toy for every 25 pieces of unopened candy in its original intended packaging. The program is open to everyone, regardless of whether they are Kool

$53,000 or less. Other committee members for the 2014-2015 VITA program include Deborah Cordova, Thelma Garza, Yolanda Gonzalez, Ruth Lopez, Marlen Ramirez, Connie Hernandez, John Wilson, Desi Walker and Citlalli Riojas. To volunteer and or become a sponsor for the program, call Thelma Garza at 686-6331. from pg 10A

Smiles patients. There is a limit of three toys per child and toys are distributed on a first come, first served basis. Kool Smiles offices are located at the following addresses: · Brownsville: 2921 Boca Chica Blvd., Brownsville, TX 78521, 956-5444505 · McAllen: 1301 E. US Hwy. 83, McAllen, TX 78501, 956-994-0349 · Mission: 213 E. Expressway 83, Mission, TX 78572, 956-424-7032 · Weslaco: 1004 N. Texas Blvd., Weslaco, TX 78596, 956-467-1912

BUCKNER

factors that aggravates the cycle of poverty. Jobs for Life will work to combat this crisis as graduates learn the purpose of meaningful employment.” The goal of the program is to equip individuals with the tools they need to acquire sustainable employment through character, identity, and conflict resolution train-

from pg 9A

ing. The course is open to individuals 18 and older. The program is currently seeking business and professional mentors who are committed to investing 20 minutes per week to having constructive conversations with class students. For additional information about the class or mentor opportunities, please contact Jana Henriquez at 956-519-3100 legalnotice or jlopez@ buckner.org. JOB OPENING

HVAC Mechanics

Nationwide Federal Government Contractor seeks highly experienced and qualified HVAC Mechanics for facilities maintenance positions in Los Ebanos, TX. These positions require a minimum of 7 years proven HVAC experience with a strong electrical background. Qualified candidates must possess a current EPA Certification. These positions offer an outstanding benefits and compensation package. The ability to obtain and maintain a Federal Government security clearance and pass a pre-employment drug and alcohol screening is mandatory. Please respond with your resume faxed to: 480.245.6734 Drug Free Work Place EOE M/F/D/V

er.

CITIZENS AWARDS

Nominations for Geary poured in this year. That, alone, said a lot about the impact she’s had on the community. Mr. Mission Rodriguez grew up in a migrant family, working in the cotton and tomato fields, where he was driving a John Deere tractor at the age of 8. By age 15, he was a foreman supervising his own crew. Attending schools in California and Mission while migrating for work, he graduated from Mission High School in 1975. Beginning a lifelong pattern of service, that same year he began teaching CCD, or Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church. In 1977, Rodriguez married and moved back to California to support his family, working with his dad, a farm labor contractor, harvesting tomatoes and cherries. He often picked up side jobs, delivering small tomato plants from nurseries to fields for transplanting early the next morning. In 1980, Rodriguez and his wife moved back to Mission, where he went to work at Wickes Lumber, quickly moving up as a manager for outside sales. When Wickes Lumber closed down, Rodriguez worked for a time at Alamo Lumber before starting his own business. In June 1997, Rodriguez and his wife had five children when she received a call from a caseworker asking if she knew of anyone interested in adopting a set of twins. When she told Rodri-

legalnotice PUBLIC NOTICE The Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a Public Hearing on November 18, 2014 at 5:00 pm at the City Hall Council Chambers, 4417 North Shary Road, Palmhurst, Texas in order to consider the following: Rezoning: A 1.51 Acre tract of land out of Lot 32-4, West Addition to Sharyland, Hidalgo County, Texas; (Southwest corner of Mile 3 Road and Trosper Road), from Residential to Commercial /Office Use. Anyone interested is invited to attend and voice their concerns. Celina Perez, City Secretary

legalnotice

October 24, 2014 from pg1A

guez, his response was, “Us. If the call came to us, obviously God is sending them to us. You are the one at home with the children, and if you are willing, I am too.” The boys were 4 years old. Now 21, the boys have grown to become gentlemen, imitating their dad, from church to community service to construction Also in the summer of 1997, the Rodriguezes received a phone call from an organization that helps place foreign exchange students. A student from Brazil needed a temporary place to stay. Rodriguez opened his three-bedroom, one bathroom home for more than six months. Since then, Rodriguez has hosted many foreign exchange students, including students from Brazil and Ecuador, as well as medical students from Peru, Brazil, Columbia and Argentina. Woman of the Year Ramirez Esqueda is a Mission High School graduate with an international business degree from the University of Texas at San Antonio. Her successful path led her to start her own company, which eventually sold and merged to Lone Star Shredding and Document Storage, where she now is general manager, helping build it into possibly the largest, privately owned record management center in South Texas. Her expertise has led her to become a consultant to municipalities and school districts, working closely to help them develop retention and recycle programs. She’s been a member of the Mission Lions club since 2007. Ramirez Esqueda serves on the Mission Baccalaureate Committee, which supports graduating seniors

CHAMBER

Also Thursday night, Myers, chamber president, recognized several members. Business Advisor Magazine was named Business Partner of the Year. The 10th issue of the magazine is coming out in November. H-E-B was named Business Leader of the Year, an honor that goes to a member with “noteworthy accomplishments, longstanding

from the two high schools in Mission CISD and the two in Sharyland ISD. A member of Primera Iglesia Baptista in Mission, she participates in the family adoption program, collects and delivers food baskets, clothing and financial assistance to underprivileged families with schoolage children. Her business sense has given her the understanding and skills necessary to help establish and continue to drive a service organization founded with her friend, Eddie Vela, in 2009. A Mission resident, Vela was diagnosed with a rare and incurable form of cancer, and, because of his own circumstance, they saw the need to establish the Faith, Family and Friends Foundation. The foundation supports law enforcement families who are battling serious and life-threatening illnesses. Vela eventually lost his battle, but Ramirez Esqueda’s energy continues to be the driving force to keep Vela’s mission alive when many others would have fallen by the wayside and lost interest and the vision for the organization’s purpose. She’s raised more than $100,000 with fundraising events in just a few years to bless the lives of others caught in circumstances for which no one is ever prepared. Man of the Year In 1972, Davis was part of the Mission Bronco Baseball team that made history as the United States champions of the Bronco World Series in St. Joseph, Missouri. He may not be hitting baseballs any longer, but he has worked to ensure that Mission’s youth today have the opportunity to enjoy sports and other wholesome activities through the Mission Boys & Girls Club and Shary Municipal Golf

Course, where he has served for years on their boards of directors. Davis also served 12 years on the City of Mission Building and Adjustments Board, as a board member and as chairman. He previously served several years as a board member of the American Diabetes Association and as a Regional Insurance PAC Director for Farmers Insurance FEPAC, a political action committee representing the Rio Grande Valley for the insurance industry. Besides dedicating his time to serve the community on various boards, Davis has found time to coordinate events for Autism Awareness, the American Diabetes Association and La Lomita Lions Club. Trading in his baseball cleats for a touring bicycle, in 2008 and 2010, Davis coordinated a 97-mile bike ride for Autism Awareness. He continues to be a dedicated father and advocate for his son. An involved parishioner at St. Paul’s Catholic Church, Davis has served as an usher for 36 years, is a member of Knights of Columbus, and is a board member of the church maintenance committee. Davis shares something in common with the other individuals honored with the Citizens Awards. He has spent a lifetime looking about him, not to see how others could help him, but rather how he could best use his God-given talents and abilities to bless the lives of those around him. “This is the spirit of Mission that lives on in the lives of all her citizens who reach out to lift others and touch the lives of their neighbors and friends,” Jim Brunson said. “This is the spirit that makes Mission the place we love to call home.”

contributions and significant community service efforts.” Myers said it didn’t hurt that just that morning H-E-B donated $50,000 to the city of Mission to build soccer fields at Hollis Rutledge Park. Dip-It Yogurt Gourmet Dips earned the title Business of the Year, as Pilar Gonzalez, owner, recently won a $25,000 grant to expand her operation and then

participated in the H-E-B Quest for the Best competition, winning second place and a chance to have her products sold at H-E-Bs. “Everything we do is about one primary question in mind,” Myers said at the banquet. “Is what we’re doing bringing value to our members; does it create value for our community?”

from pg1A

October 24, 2014

www.progresstimes.net | www.sharylandtimes.com

LJISD

BUTTERFLIES

from pg 9A

listed $6,272, Juan Jose “J.J.” Garza listed $4,984, Oscar “Coach” Salinas listed $4792, Jesus “Chuy” Avendaño listed $3,985, Esperanza “Espie” Ochoa listed $3,338, and Juan “J.J.” Peña listed $27.12 in reim-

bursable expenses. Board member Johnn Alaniz did not report any expenses, and former board member Irene M. Garica reported $1,388 in reimbursable expenses.

Other field trips include a new Landscaping for Butterflies 2014 with Pat Sutton and Audrey Harvey, Way out West, with Buck and Linda Cooper, Coastal Specialties with Mike Richard, Rail Line Leps with Bob Behrstock,

theclassifieds buy • sell • trade • rent • hire

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

garagesale

BIG GARAGE SALE 404 Hackberry Ave. Mission Thursday-Friday and Sunday. Clothes , Jewelery, Baby items, Miscellaneous items. GARAGE SALE: MISSION, 2 1/2 miles & Glasscock. Sat.10/8, 8-3pm. Furniture,Clothes, Shoes, Athletic shoes.

helpwanted

EXPERIENCED TAX PREPARERS needed. Also, if you have existing clients but require office space we are willing to discuss compensation. Call (956) 585-1818, Fax (956)585-9818, E-mail: atefax@hotmail.com.

DRIVERS:

Carter Express. CDL-A: Solos up to 38 cpm to start, Teams up to 47 cpm to start Home Weekly.. No touch, Newer Equipment

(855)219-4839

services

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

You can pay for your classified with a credit card over the phone

JOB OPENING Custodians

Nationwide Federal Government contractor seeks Custodians for high profile facilities maintenance positions in Los Ebanos, TX. These positions require the ability to perform basic housekeeping duties, along with excellent customer service and communication skills. Qualified candidates must understand English. These are hourly positions with excellent benefits and compensation. The ability to obtain and maintain a Federal Government security clearance and pass a pre-employment drug screening is mandatory. Please respond with your resume faxed to: 480.245.6734 Drug Free EOE M/F/D/V

Job Posting Traveling HVAC Mechanics Nationwide Federal Government Contractor seeks highly experienced and qualified Traveling HVAC Mechanics for route service work for facilities maintenance positions in Los Ebanos, TX. These positions require a minimum of ten years proven HVAC experience with a strong electrical background.

miscellaneous RENTO SALON PARA bodas, XV anos, baby shower, cumpleanos, todo tipo de evento social, info 956-9075332. SHARI’S BERRIES - ORDER Mouthwatering Gifts for Any Occasion! SAVE 20 percent on qualifying gifts over $29! Fresh dipped Berries starting at $19.99! Visit www. berries.com/easy or Call 1-888-9191668! DISH TV RETAILER. Starting at $19.99/month (for 12 mos.) & High Speed Internet starting at $14.95/ month (where available.) SAVE! Ask About SAME DAY Installation! CALL Now! 1-800-3462186.

services

NEED A DJ Call Eddie with Unique DJing Production. All Music...Customized to your Preferences! All special events. Web: www. myspace.com/dj_ by_eddie. 956-2199072.

novena Oracion Al Espiritu Santo

Espiritu Santo, tu que me aclaras todo, que iluminas todos los caminos para que yo alcance mi ideal, tu que me das el don divino de perdonar y olvidar el mal que me hacen y que en todos los instantes de mi vida estas conmigo, yo quiero en este corto dialogo agradecerte por todo y confirmar una vez mas que nunca quiero separarme de ti por mayor que sea la ilusion material. Deseo estar contigo y todos mis seres queridos en la gracia perpetua. Gracias por tu misericordia para conmigo y los mios. La persona debera rezar esta oracion 3 dias sequidos sin decir el pedido. dentro de tres dias sera alcanzada la gracia por mas deficil que sea. (Publicar en cuanto se recibia la gracia). Agradece gracia alcanzada. T.R.

from pg 8A

Qualified candidates must possess a current EPA Certification. These positions offer an outstanding benefits and compensation package along with new Company van, cell phone and computer provided. The ability to obtain and maintain a Federal Government security clearance and pass a pre-employment drug and alcohol screening is mandatory. Please respond with resume faxed to: 480.245.6734 Drug Free Work Place EOE M/F/D/V

and Wilderness &Wetlands with Martin Reid. Still more field trips being offered include Military “Hot Spots” with Mike Reid and Glassberg’s Notso-Swift Guide through the Gardens. Final offerings include On the Fly: Advanced Field Markings For Hairstreaks, Skippers & Sulphurs

Personal classified rate: $7 for 15 words

25¢ each additional word thereafter

Business classified rate: $15 for 15 words

25¢ each additional word thereafter

with Dan Jones and Mike Rickard, Botanical Gardens of McAllen with Pat Sutton, Riverboat Ride & Seek with Martin Reid, and Night Things: Moths, Bats & Birds in the Gardens with Jim Vargo. Times and costs of participating in each field trip vary. In addition to the field

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trips there will be a Butter Bordermilk Supper & Supper on Sunday at the National Butterfly Park and a Special Keynote Speakers and Awards Banquet at a location to be announced. For more information call (956) 583-5400 or register online at www.texasbutterflyfestival.com.

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.

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October 24, 2014

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Rattlers, Diamondbacks to clash in first “I’m definitely looking forward to it, I have my brother playing on the other team so it’s a good way to start off the Snakeskin Classic.” --Loredo Guerra

By Ed Salas

Prep Schedule Friday District Football – Oct. 24 Mission High at Nikki Rowe (TH) 7:00 p.m. Veterans Memorial at Valley View 7:30 p.m. Sharyland High at Sharyland Pioneer 7:30 p.m. Palmview at Juarez-Lincoln 7:30 p.m. La Joya High – Bye Saturday Cross Country – Oct. 25 District 31-5A Championship C.C. Meet 9:00 a.m. at Bentsen Palm Park Saturday Volleyball – Oct. 25 Sharyland High at Valley View 12:00 p.m. Mission High at Juarez-Lincoln 12:00 p.m. Veterans Memorial at Rio Grande 12:00 p.m. Palmview at McAllen Memorial 12:00 p.m. La Joya High at Nikki Rowe 12:00 p.m. Roma at Sharyland Pioneer 12:00 p.m. Tuesday Volleyball – Oct. 28 (End of District Schedule)

McAllen Memorial at Mission High Juarez-Lincoln at La Joya High McAllen High at Palmview Rio Grande at Sharyland High Edinburg Vela at Veterans Memorial Sharyland Pioneer – Bye

6:30 6:30 6:30 7:00 7:00

p.m. p.m. p.m. p.m. p.m.

haryland football will add a new chapter in the history books when the first-year Sharyland Pioneer Diamondbacks and topranked Sharyland Rattlers face each other for the first time in the inaugural Snakeskin Classic at 7:30 p.m. on Friday at Richard Thompson Stadium. Sharyland (6-1 overall, 3-0 district) and Pioneer (35, 1-3) share District 31-5A real estate and although they may find themselves at different levels within the district’s echelon, their records won’t matter this Friday. “It’s going to be historic being that it’s the first one,” Rattlers head coach Ron Adame said. “I know coach Wheeler and his staff will have those Diamondbacks ready, and those boys, we look at them as though they are still a part of us. I know it’s going to be a nice, friendly rivalry. It’s going to be good for the community and it’s going be a good, clean game, and we’re looking forward to that first historic encounter between us and the Diamondbacks.” The Rattlers have won three straight district games and are coming off one of their best defensive performances of the season after holding Roma to six points in a 28-6 victory over the Gladiators on Oct. 17. The defense held Roma’s offense to just 172 total yards.

The Diamondbacks haven’t been as lucky as their bigger brother and the scores haven’t been indicative of what they’ve accomplished on the field. Pioneer has lost three consecutive games after winning the district opener 28-7 over Valley View on Sept. 25. Mission Veterans Memorial defeated the Diamondbacks 33-19 last week. Despite the setbacks, Pioneer is still in the playoff race. “I’m looking forward to this game against the Rattlers,” Diamondbacks head coach Jason Wheeler said. “It’s kind of like big brother against little brother. We’re going to go out there and have fun, and we’re going to be aggressive. Our kids are not going to be in awe and we’re not going to be intimidated.” “It’s going to be a friendly rivalry,” he added. “These kids know each other so well and they have respect for each other. It’s going to be fun. There’s even a trophy so the winning team will keep the trophy in their trophy case.” Regardless of Friday’s outcome against Sharyland, Wheeler believes it will come down to their game against Roma on Oct. 31 that will decide the team that takes the fourth playoff spot. “We’re playing the tough part of our district schedule, but we’ve got to relax and have fun and get better as a football team,” Wheeler said. “Even though we haven’t been winning games, I feel

ABOVE: Pioneer sophomore Alec Garcia breaks into the open as he picks up a first down. LEFT: Pioneer’s Brandon Casas squeezes his way over the goal line as he scores the final touchdown of the game against the Patriots last Friday night. Progress Times photos by Luciano Guerra

“I know coach Wheeler and his staff will have those Diamondbacks ready, and those boys, we look at them as though they are still a part of us.

like we’re playing a lot better as a team and if we keep playing the way we are, and we play well against Sharyland win or lose, I feel great about our chances against Roma.” “If we can take care of that one, we’re in the playoffs and that was our goal from the get go last spring anyway,” he added. “The kids are very upbeat. Anytime you’re a first-year program and you still have a chance to be in the playoffs, your practices get a lot better.” Friday’s first-ever Snakeskin Classic will not only pit school against school, but it

will put former teammates up against each other, including a pair of brothers. Sharyland senior running back Loredo Guerra and senior defensive end Aaron Serna will face their brothers, junior corner back Tristan Guerra and sophomore running back Marco Serna, who decided to go to Pioneer for an opportunity to play on the varsity squad. “I’m definitely looking forward to it,” Loredo Guerra said. “I have my brother playing on the other team so it’s a good way to start off the Snakeskin Classic.”

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October 24, 2014

Lobos’ success making school history T By Luciano Guerra

hey won their first three district games of the season, and suffered only one loss against five wins and one tie overall. The Palmview High School Lobos are like butter – they’re on a roll. As one of the hottest teams in the district and with the winless Juarez-Lincoln High School Huskies on their schedule tonight, some

might think that winning their fourth game in a row is in the bag. But with a 0-4 record against Juarez-Lincoln since both schools cameto-be in 2008, Palmview head football coach Mage Requenez knows overlooking the Huskies would be a mistake. “This is one of the games that we’ve had marked down since the beginning of the season as being very critical,” explained Requenez.

“Not only because we want to continue being undefeated in the district but also because they’re the only school, besides the two McAllen schools, that we’ve never beaten before. We’re 0-4 against the Huskies and one of our goals is to make sure that we get by them and put a game in the win column against them.” Having taken over the Lobos head coaching position on an interim basis after last year’s mid-season reassignment of coach Manuel Flores, Requenez has been at the helm of what is shaping up to be one of the more dramatic one-year turnarounds in Valley high school football. Coming off a 1-9 2013 season, they have a 5-1-1 record this season and have already assured the first winning season in school history. And, they are just one win away from securing the first playoff spot for any La Joya ISD football team since 2007. So how have the Lobos been able to turn things around so quickly? Requenez was quick to credit his coaching staff for making the most of the players they have on their roster. “It goes back to the coaching staff that we’ve been able to put together,” said Requenez. “Their knowledge of the game is very exceptional and the way they’ve gotten the kids to play for them is at a different level than we’ve had here before. We knew

The Lobos’ Diego Salinas brings down La Joya’s Joel Casas during Palmview’s 23-10 win over the Coyotes October 10, 2014. Progress Times photo by Doug Young

the type of kids we had here and we’ve completely overhauled our offense from being a passing team to a running team.” While his offense has already scored almost as many points through seven games this season as they scored in 10 games last season, it’s the play of his defense that has made the big difference. “Our defense is playing very well right now,” said Requenez. “It’s kept us in ballgames. Against Rowe last week our defense caused some fumbles and had some critical stops.” “I have two key players

on defense that deserve to be recognized,” added Requenez. “The one I’m really pushing to receive All-District recognition is linebacker Amador Garcia. He’s been the spark plug of the defense and he’s been the one that has caused the most turnovers. The other guy that’s been playing at a different level is one of our other linebackers Jaime Ybarra. He’s made some great stops for us and as long as they both keep playing the way they are we’ll do fine.” Two of Requenez’s new hires on his coaching staff are offensive coordinator

Big 7 Football Week 8 in Review

La Joya Coyotes 26 at Mission Eagles 7 In a game between two one-win teams, it was the La Joya High School (LJHS) Coyotes that emerged victorious over the Mission High School (MHS) Eagles by a score of 26-7 at Tom Landry Stadium last Thursday night. The Coyotes relied heavily on the legs of junior Justin Leanos who carried the ball 25 times for 202 yards and one touchdown against the Eagles. Senior quarterback Julio Garcia completed five of 16 passes for 62 yards while junior John Cadena completed two of five passes

for 20 yards and one interception for LJHS. Cadena ran the ball 10 times for 33 yards and one touchdown as well. Junior defensive back Genaro Hernandez had one fumble recovery and one interception, which he returned for a touchdown, for the Coyotes. With the win LJHS improves to 2-6 overall and 1-3 in District 30-6A play. With the loss MHS falls to 1-6 overall and 0-3 in district. Roma 6 at Sharyland 28 Sharyland's defense trumped Roma's offense en route to a 28-6 homecoming

game win over the Gladiators last Friday night at Richard Thompson Stadium. Top performers for the Rattlers included senior quarterback and receiver Diego Chrysler, who completed five of six passes for 75 yards and one touchdown, senior defensive back Raul "Chilis" Garcia, who had three solo and seven assisted tackles, and senior Zach Townsend, who had one fumble recovery. The Rattlers, who have outscored their opponents 242-144 so far this season, improved to 6-1 overall and 3-0 in District 31-5A. Roma

Gary Lauer and defensive coordinator J.J. Leiga. Lauer, who spent the past two seasons as offensive coordinator for the Mission Eagles, credits the Lobos’ dramatic turnaround to a new mindset among the players. “The big thing is a change in the kids’ attitudes,” said Lauer. “When you’ve gone 1-9 it’s hard to change that mind frame so we’ve been working on their attitude and their work ethic. Getting the kids to show up to practices on time and getting them to work together as a team and

See LOBOS 3B

dropped to 3-4-1 and 1-3. Nikki Rowe 17 at Palmview 21 Since the three-way split of La Joya High School in 2008, no La Joya high school has had a football team end its season with a winning record. That however is about to change. That’s because as a result of their 21-17 win over the Nikki Rowe Warriors last Friday night the Palmview High School (PHS) Lobos are already assured of finishing their season with no worse than a 5-4-1 record. Against Nikki Rowe the Lobos’ Freddy Villarreal and Jose Bernal each had 16 car-

See REVIEW 3B

October 24, 2014

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HUSKIES BOYS, LOBOS GIRLS CLAIM DISTRICT TITLES Cross country running may not be as popular a sport as football, baseball, basketball and volleyball are, but for those who compete in it it’s much more than a sport – it’s a way of life. So much so that while most high school students spend their summer vacations doing things like hanging out with their friends and going to the beach, cross country runners spend their summers running and training in preparation for their upcoming season. That dedication and devotion to the sport paid off for many local runners at Saturday’s District 30-6A CC championship meet held at Palmview High School (PHS). None more-so than two Palmview High School runners, Natali Gonzalez and Eliseo Rodriguez, who bettered the girls’ and the boys’ fields respectively to claim both individual district championships for the Lobos. The fact that Gonzalez and Rodriguez are cousins means that distance running literally runs in their family. Having her cousin win his first district championship the same day she won hers had Gonzalez smiling from ear-to-ear as she did her best to express her feelings. “Oh my gosh, it feels amazing,” shared Gonzalez. “I was so close my freshman year but they passed me at the end. Now three years later in my senior year to fi-

LOBOS

as units is what has helped us to be successful.” “I was surprised that we had so much success so early,” added Lauer. “Offensively I didn’t expect to switch from a spread team to a running team and have that much success early. Our two really tough scrimmages and our first two non-district games helped because we ran the ball really well in both those games. We had over 500 yards of offense in both games so that has set the tone for the rest of the season.” As for the Lobos’ defensive success Leiga, who was defensive coordinator at PSJA North High School prior to this year, also credits Garcia and Ybarra for

nally win the district championship feels amazing. I’m so proud of my team and of myself. We all did amazing.” In regards to the dual family championship Gonzalez said, “It’s amazing! I didn’t expect it and he didn’t expect it. Since we’re cousins I guess it runs in the family. He might be annoying sometimes but I still love him.” Gonzalez, who ran the 5k course in a time of 19:27:59, was just one of four PHS girls who finished among the top 10. The others were Naila Flores, Briana Robles and Mia Hinojosa who placed second, third and eighth respectively. Other top 10 girls’ finishers included Aminta Michelle Flores (4th) and Valerie Flores of Mission High School (MHS) and Yareli Tamez of Juarez-Lincoln High School (JLHS). Rodriguez’s time of 16:22:18 was 18 seconds faster than the second place finisher Florentino Castillo of JLHS. Other top 10 finishers in the boys’ division were Mischel Lara (3rd), Martin Baez (5th) and Jorge Santoyo (8th) of JLHS, Victor Bocanegra (4th), Jesus Jaime (6th) and Tristen Robles (7th) of PHS, Jorge Perez (9th) of MHS and Joey Martinez (10th) of LJHS. In total, the three La Joya high schools had nine of the top 10 boys and five of the top 10 girls finishers. The top 10 finishers in both divisions qualified for the regional from pg 2B

their willingness to assume leadership roles and for their hard work and dedication. “In the offseason when we first got here we elected our team leaders,” Leiga said. “It so happened that those two guys were selected by their teammates to be team leaders. And they lead by example. They study every day, they watch film, they push the other players to be the best they can be and they’re just a prime example of what everybody wants their student athletes to be.” The Huskies will be the home team and the Lobos the visitors in tonight’s matchup, which is scheduled to kick off at La Joya ISD Stadium at 7:30.

LEFT: Natalie Gonzalez and Eliseo Rodriguez. TOP: Juarez-Lincoln Cross Country Team RIGHT: Lady Lobos Cross Country Team

meet which will be taking place Saturday Nov. 1 in San Antonio. As for the top finishers among the boys teams, JLHS ran away with the district championship with a score of 32, PHS placed second with a score of 44 and MHS tied with Nikki Rowe for third with a score of 110. However the third place tie was broken in favor of MHS due to the fact that their sixth runner finished ahead of Rowe’s sixth runner. With only the top three teams qualifying for the regional meet, MHS qualified as a result of the tie-breaker. Among the girls’ teams, PHS took the district title with a score of 33, Nikki Rowe took second with a score of 68 and MHS took third with a score of 73. As

REVIEW

ries for 90 and 106 yards respectively with Villarreal scoring all three of PHS’ touchdowns. Villarreal also completed his only pass attempt for 20 of the Lobos’ 31 yards total through the air. With the victory over the Warriors the Lobos improved their overall record to 5-1-1 and their District 306A record to 3-0. Sharyland Pioneer 19 at Veterans Memorial 33 The Veterans Memorial Patriots improved their overall record to 5-2 and their district record to 2-1 with their 33-19 win over the Sharyland Pioneer Diamondbacks last Friday night at Tom Landry Stadium. With the loss the Diamondbacks

a result those are the three teams that have qualified for the regional meet. As the Lobos’ boys and girls CC coach, Claudia Bazan saw both of her teams finish where they were expected to finish Saturday. Even so, she expressed disappointment in the fact that her boys fell short of claiming a district title. “As far as the girls are concerned we were favored coming into this meet but like I told the kids, ‘Anything can happen in a cross country race,’” said Bazan. “We worked on gaps to make sure that they stayed together. Overall they performed well and we were able to walk away with a title today.” “As for the boys we were predicted to come in second and that’s where we ended up today,” added Bazan.

“The kids are a little disappointed. They’ve been working extremely hard during the past five months of training so they leave today with a little bit of disappointment but we have another race and hopefully we’ll be able to iron things out over there.” In regards to her two individual district champions Bazan said, “Natali has been running well this season. Her time was not her personal best but overall we were pleased with her performance. Eli Rodriguez, the boys’ champion, is just a sophomore but he gained some experience by running varsity last year. He hadn’t won any big meets this year but he came through today with a great performance.”

dropped to 3-5 overall and 1-3 in district play. Patriots’ sophomore quarterback Diego Hernandez completed 20 of 33 passes for 302 yards, three touchdowns and two interceptions. Two of those touchdown passes went to John Garcia who had four receptions on the night for 53 yards. Garcia also ran the ball nine times for 55 yards and another touchdown. Top receivers for the Patriots were senior Jay De Leon with six receptions for 100 yards and sophomore Adam Solis with five catches for 100 yards and one touchdown. Defensively for the Patriots junior Hugo Cabrera had six unassisted and 12 assisted

tackles with one tackle being for a loss. Junior Kevin Liebano contributed defensively in a big way with two interceptions and 92 return yards on the night. Juarez-Lincoln 6 at McAllen High 41 It’s been a tough year for the Juarez-Lincoln High School (JLHS) Huskies as they remained winless after their 41-6 loss to the McAllen High Bulldogs last Friday night. The Bulldogs scored 21 points in the first quarter and seven in the second, all on running plays, to take a 28-6 lead over the Huskies at the half. JLHS’ only score of the game was an Edward Garcia one yard touchdown run in the second quarter.

from pg 2B

Volleyball Standings as of Oct. 22 District 30-6A

McAllen High* 10-1 McAllen Rowe* 9-2 McAllen Memorial* 7-3 Mission High 5-5 La Joya High 3-7 Juarez-Lincoln 2-8 Palmview 0-10 District 31-5A

VMHS* 10-0 Pioneer* 9-2 Roma* 6-4 Vela* 6-5 Sharyland 3-7 Rio Grande City ---Valley View ---*Clinched playoff berth

Garcia completed nine of 24 passes for 69 yards and one interception against the Bulldogs. The Huskies’ Carlos Barrera was on the receiving end of five of those passes for 50 yards. Zeke Rodriguez was JLHS’ top ground gainer with nine rushes for 44 yards. With the loss the Huskies dropped to 0-7 overall and 0-3 in District 30-6A play.

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October 24, 2014