Friday, December 12, 2014
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DPS’ OPERATION STRONG SAFETY TO SHIFT GEARS
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By Julie Silva
he Department of Public Safety didn’t expect the Mexican cartels to have an army of scouts and seemingly endless resources when the agency swarmed into the Rio Grande Valley over the summer, Col. Steve McCraw said in a state committee meeting last week. “Every day around the clock we’re being watched in the hotels, restaurants, on the river, off the river, at the airports, even at our observation posts,” McCraw said during a hearing on the fiscal impact of border operations. “Of course, unlike them, we follow the rules … but they don’t have to. At the end of the day, as we disrupt their operations, they’ve employed even more unusu-
al tactics to try to split the seam.” The state sent an influx of agents, troopers and rangers to the Rio Grande Valley on June 23 when the Valley made up 53 percent of all apprehensions of people in the country illegally along the U.S.-Mexico border. McCraw said they’d been focused on a deterrent strategy that resulted in interdiction, but he said the state wants to reverse that, leveraging technology. Between now and March, when Texas National Guard troops will be phased out of the operation, the state plans to install 4,000 cameras along the border in addition to the 1,300 already in place through Operation Drawbridge, implemented in 2012. According to DPS, as of
the end of October the cameras had detected 104,000 criminal acts along the Texas-Mexico border and 50,000 people were arrested and 85 tons of drugs were seized as a result of the footage. Currently, National Guard troops man observation posts and call in potential illegal activity they spot to troopers. During the hearing, State Rep. John Zerwas, R-Simonton, asked about concerns that the increased forces created a militarized zone, and McCraw said the state also is aware of the viewpoints of local law enforcement agencies in the Valley. “The strategy we used is nothing more than police science in terms of identifying clusters of crime; saturation of patrols, ground, air in a coordinated unified ap-
proach, but when you move that many people into an area like that, you know, it’s not pretty,” McCraw said. “You use the term, ‘Step on some baby birds along the way’ because you’re just moving that many resources right into that area of operation. “But this was about getting in the cartel’s face immediately and have an impact.” DPS is spending about $1.1 million per week on the operation, he said, and $25 million total was spent from June to November. The funding is going toward overtime as troopers work 12-hour days. The state has allocated $86 million to continue the operation through August of this year. McCraw said in June, there were 35,000 apprehen-
sions in the Valley, but that number dropped to 10,000 in November. “There’s no question we’ve had an impact in the Valley,” McCraw declared. But State Rep. Donna Howard, D-Austin, asked if there is a reliable metric to measure success. She subtracted the 17 percent of unaccompanied minors taken into custody this year from the 53 percent of overall captures along the southwest border. The resulting figure, about 36 percent, is close to the 37 percent of apprehensions made in the Rio Grande Valley in 2013, she said. Howard said border protection is necessary, but it’s difficult to determine the right amount of money to invest. “I think we’re still going
back and forth on the numbers, and it’s very hard to get a firm grasp on that,” Howard said. “It has been deemed successful when there’s increased apprehensions because we caught the people we need to catch or when there’s decreased apprehensions because we’ve created a system of deterrence.” McCraw agreed, pointing out a report that states, “a metric where you claim success whether numbers go up or down is not a metric.” The fact that DPS has dramatically increased its resources on the border and yet numbers are going down proves the state’s actions are working, he said. He added that because law enforcement agencies don’t
See FISCAL IMPACT 14
A VERY BIKER CHRISTMAS
Mission CISD students set aside time to participate in an Hour of Code in observation of Computer Science Education Week. Hour of Code is a worldwide initiative that is designed to get students more familiar with the computer education.
Hour of Code to break the mold
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Motorcycle clubs donate to family services center
By Lea Victoria Juarez wo Santa Clauses rode in on motorcycles to visit families at the Rio Grande Valley Children’s Home over the weekend. Led by the constable, about 25 bikers filed through the campus gates, surprising the parents and children who were outside playing games. The Law Dog motorcycle club made Christmas possible for families who may not be able to experience the gift-giving holiday and have been doing so for nearly a decade. Each year, the club recruits others to travel from the lower Valley and present gifts to children in need at the end of their nearly 100mile ride. The route starts at the KGBT channel 4 news station and the clubs travel into Raymondville, Santa Rosa, La Villa, Edinburg and
Mission. The bikers pay $12 to ride and all the proceeds go to Buckner International, a faith-based social service organization that has three programs in the Valley – Services to At Risk Youth, the Family Hope Center and the RGV Children’s Home. This is the fourth year the Law Dogs rode for Buckner. In addition to the entry fee, this year the biker clubs had the help of sponsors throughout the Valley and donated $2,350 to the family services center. Allan Flores, Law Dog club member and event organizer, pulled up on his motorcycle with a smile on his face as the children ran up to greet the bikers. “I just love it because,” he paused and his eyes welled up with tears, “them, the
ABOVE: Every year the Law Dog motorcycle club recruits other bikers to donate their time and money for children in need of a Christmas. BELOW: Families play a variety of games at the Rio Grande Valley Children’s Home while the motorcycle clubs ride to the campus to surprise the children.
“You know, I’m a grandfather...and that’s what Christmas is all about anyways – the kids.” See BIKER CHRISTMAS 14 --Michael Green
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By Lea Victoria Juarez
hroughout the week, Mission CISD students click, click, clicked away on their computers for an hour at a time, creating games and practicing computer programming for the Hour of Code initiative. The Hour of Code is a global campaign that aims to recruit 10 million students to try their hand at computer science. Coding is how computer software is created and designed. In October, Mission EDC partnered up with Sylvan Learning Center and Border Kids Code to form the program Code the Town where students and teachers learned game building and app development. All week campuses set aside time to participate in the Hour of Code in observation of Computer Science Education Week, which extends Dec. 8-14. “The Hour of Coding is introducing the students how to give the computer commands so that they can come up with their own apps, their own ideas,” said Yonia Martinez, Alton Elementary
“I don’t want it to be a one-time bandwagon type of program” --Adan Ramirez
librarian. “They can create anything they want. Instead of just playing with their phone they can create a program for their phone. For the beginner levels, coding is taught in a gamelike format. For example, students create a character and give the character commands by developing a code for the character to execute the demands. “Even though you make a mistake, it helps you understand your mistake,” fifth-grader Kayla del Angel said. “It gives you little modifications for the future so that you won’t mess up again.” But the teachers at Alton are promoting a future with coding, beyond the fun and games. Coding promotes interest in the STEM fields -- science, technology, engi-
See HOUR OF CODE 14
INSIDE
INDEX
Juarez-Lincoln presents ‘Into the Woods’
Mission lights up Christmas season
Robert Earl Keen brings country Christmas
The show, presented by This Way! Musical Theatre Company, will run from Dec. 18-20 at La Joya ISD Performing Arts Center.
Hundreds of residents attended the annual Christmas tree lighting at Leo Peña Placita Park last week.
It’ll be a 70s-themed Christmas at Las Palmas Race Park on Dec. 17 during Keen’s Merry Christmas from the Fam-o-lee tour.
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Entertainment | pg. 2
Lifestyle | pg. 8
Opinion | pg. 4
Sports | pg. 5
Obituaries | pg. 11
Classifieds | pg. 13
entertainment
Juarez-Lincoln students present ‘Into the Woods’
LA JOYA –This Way! Musical Theatre Company at La Joya Juarez-Lincoln High School presents “Into the Woods” Thursday through Friday, Dec. 18 to 20. Performances will be held at the La Joya Performing Arts Center at 7 p.m. each day. The musical links the plots of several of the Brothers Grimm fairytales, such as Cinderella, Jack and the Beanstalk, Rapunzel, and Little Red Riding Hood, to delve into what happens after “happily ever after.” The blend of fables intertwines with an original story of a childless baker and his wife, who catalyze the action of “Into the Woods” by
attempting to reverse a curse on their family in order to have a child. Each character in the production goes through a transformation when attempting to fulfill each of their wishes – while cautioning the audience to be careful what they wish for. Starring Jennifer Silva as the witch, Jesse Pompa as the baker and Priscilla Valencia as the baker’s wife, the cast, along with the Juarez-Lincoln choir, promises to charm spectators of all ages. Tickets are available for $6 at the door or at the La Joya ISD Fine Arts department. For more, information, call Melissa Casas at 580-5160.
Students with This Way! Musical Theatre Company at Juarez-Lincoln High School in La Joya rehearse for their newest production, “Into the Woods.” It runs for three nights next week at the La Joya Performing Arts Center.
North Pole opens at Mission Historical Museum
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he North Pole Village has traveled south to the Mission Historical Museum (MHM) in a special exhibit that will be on display from now through Dec. 31. It will be open for public viewing in the museum’s annex located at the corner of Doherty Ave. and Tom Landry Blvd. Admission is free. The village is on display courtesy of the efforts of Ben Olivarez with the assistance of two MHM helpers. It is part of an extensive collection of Department 56 pieces he and his wife, Kathy, have been collecting for a number of years. Covering four, four-byeight sheets of plywood, the fantasy snowscape North Pole is complete with the inhabitants of a magical village that children throughout the world dream is occupied by Santa, elves and reindeers.
What started out with four or five pieces has grown into an entire city of 150-plus buildings, in addition to all the “extras” that create the complete picture: trees, lights, train, river and more. The individual cost of each piece can range from $30 up to $150 in the original purchase. Since Department 56 pieces were often created one year and then retired, many pieces in the Olivarez collection are no longer available and have appreciated in value considerably over the original purchase price. Just as it is in the minds of children’s fantasies, the North Pole Village is whimsical in its design and purpose for each unique structure. The imaginations of children and adults alike can wander into fantasizing what it would be like to live in the magical world complete with the min-
iature moving parts. Not only does Santa have a house, he also has a castle and a getaway home. Mrs. Clause can attend to her gardening needs with her own plant nursery. Elves have a rooming house, trade school and bunkhouse. Besides Santa’s workshop, there is a reindeer barn, factories, and tailor and needle shops. Out of the four tables, one is displayed with Santa Claus’s house and related items and a few of his factories. Another is strictly Elfland, a landscape of miniatures tailored with the elfin helpers’ size in mind, complete with a spa to relax after a hard day at Santa’s workshop. Another part of the village is built around the North Pole train and a little gondola in a working ski lift. The last
See NORTH POLE 9
‘Chisholm Trail’ auditions announced
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he Pharr Community Theater will hold open auditions next week for the play, “The Chisholm Trail” by Romeo Rosales Jr., at the Carnahan Auditorium, 317 W. Gore in Pharr. Auditions take place Friday, Dec. 12, from 6:30 to 9 p.m. The story calls for 12 men ranging in ages from 18 to 80 and one woman between 25 and 45. Rehearsals run Dec. 15 to 20 and again from Jan. 5 to Feb. 11. The play will run from Feb. 12 through March 1 in Donna and in Pharr. This original story is a cowboy/vaquero adventure, comedy, tragedy and romance based on the historical Chisholm Trail that was used in the post-Civil War era to drive cattle overland from ranches in Texas. Some traveled as far south as Donna to the Kansas railheads. For more information, call 655-9308 or 648-2488.
December 12, 2014 page 2 www.progresstimes.net NEWS | SPORTS | ENTERTAINMENT | PHOTOS
Coming Attractions
Daily • Hidalgo’s Festival of Lights is open nightly with trolley rides through the lights, dinners provided by school organizations and service groups, with varied entertainment nightly. Visitors may walk and drive through the lighted scenes on their own through Dec. 31 or purchase a trolley ticket at the drop-off point. The dinner, entertainment and trolley ride combination is available for $12. The combination tickets are sold only at the State Farm Arena. Call 843-5311 for information or stop by the box office. December 12-13 • The Veterans Memorial High School (VMHS) Harlequins Drama Club students put their best foot forward in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic, “The Great Gatsby” at the VMHS Theater located on the campus at the corner of Mayberry and Mile Two Rd. in Mission. Performances are at 7 p.m. on Friday and 2 p.m. on Saturday. Doors will open 30 minutes before each show. Adapted for the stage by Simon Levy, their production begins with jazz musical numbers to help set the scene for romance, tragedy, and scandal. The classic love story and drama is complete with song, dance and grand sets. Tickets are $5 for students and $10 for adults, and may be purchased at the campus in advance or at the door. For more information, call 3233260 or 323-3000. • Trinity Worship Center’s Live Nativity and Night in Bethlehem interactive experience runs from 6:30 to 9 p.m. each evening. Families can travel back in time to experience the night of the first nativity: walk down the
streets of Bethlehem, visit the marketplace, see the potter, taste the bread, hear the angels, talk with Mary and Joseph at the manger scene and even pet a donkey or lamb. The church is located at 4801 N. Cage in Pharr. Refreshments will be served and several area choirs will perform, including the PSJA North Corral and the Sweet Adelines. Call 792-8154 for further information. December 12-14 • The MHS ENCORE Theater announces their 2014 production of Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” in the MHS Theater located on campus, 1802 Cleo Dawson, Mission. The story of love, internal struggles, human conflict and angst is set to a memorable original musical score written by Alan Menken with lyrics by Howard Ashman and Tim Rice. Show time is 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 2 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets can be purchased at the campus in advance or at the door. Tickets are $5 for students and $10 for adults. For more information, contact Ms. Serrano at 3236100. December 13 • The Ninth Annual Christmas Parade & Toy Giveaway sponsored by the Alton Chamber of Commerce and the City of Alton begins at 11 a.m. The parade starts west of Cantu Elementary and the toys are passed out to the children where it ends at the Alton Recreation Center, 349 W. Dawes. Children age eight and under must be residents of Alton to receive a toy and have a voucher. Parents can stop by the Alton Recreation Center between 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
See COMING ATTRACTIONS 9
December 12, 2014
www.progresstimes.net | www.sharylandtimes.com
Country Christmas at Las Palmas Robert Earl Keen visits the Valley on tour
Mission lights up Christmas season
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By Julie Silva
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By Lea Victoria Juarez t’ll be a 70s-themed Christmas at Las Palmas Race Park when Robert Earl Keen comes to the Rio Grande Valley Dec. 17 for his Merry Christmas from the Fam-o-lee tour. The tour is a spin off of Keen’s comical tune Merry Christmas from the Family, which describes a National Lampoon-esque group in a less than cookie-cutter Christmas. The Texas country music singer/songwriter has been doing the holiday tour for about 10 years and puts on an elaborate show with decorations and costumes for each performance. The Kerrville, Texas resident has been in the music industry for three decades, and he’ll be releasing his first-ever bluegrass record in February 2015, titled Happy Prisoners: The Bluegrass Sessions. The cover-tune album will span about 100 years of bluegrass, with music from artists such as The Stanley Brothers, Flatt and Scruggs and John Hartford. “The way that I became a guitar player is playing these kind of songs,” Keen said. “I went my own way and wrote my own songs and always enjoyed that, but when I came around to deciding that I wanted to make a bluegrass record, I didn’t want to have any part of changing the nature of it or changing the library of bluegrass music.” Keen described his yearlong experience working on the album as a labor of love because it took him the longest to put together in comparison with his other albums. He wanted to do the original songs justice and made sure every detail was perfect. Although he enjoyed the Happy Prisoners process, Keen said he will not be transitioning from his Texas country roots and fans shouldn’t expect to see another album of a different genre from him. “I come from a generation that might try to stick to one
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thing and the world that we live in today, everybody has their fingers in tons of different pies, which is cool,” the performer said. “If I were younger, I’d probably be making a skateboard album, ‘Robert Earl Keen on the Sounds of the Skateboard,’ where I hold the microphone and skateboard down the street and sing some song.” Although the singer/songwriter likes to quip and make music of a jocular nature, his background is based in English writing. The Houston-native majored in English at Texas A&M University, and without it he wouldn’t be the person he is today. “As much as I love music and as much as I do in music, it doesn’t even reflect the amount of passion I have for the written word and how words fit together, how powerful words are,” Keen said. “So, I’m completely in over my head with it and it’s made
all the difference.” Keen’s love of literature follows him on tour and is his connection to home. When he’s playing in other states the musician said he likes to visit local bookstores so he won’t feel so disassociated to his life in Kerrville. Though he may be known as a Texas country entertainer, he admitted that his band doesn’t play many shows in the Lone Star State, but as they wrap up their 70s Christmas tour, they’ll be hitting Texas cities through the month of December. “This is when we bring it all home. So not only is it ‘Merry Christmas from the family,’ but it’s our bring it on home tour,” Keen said. “We have a whole truck full of fun little toys to play with out there on the stage with our Christmas show, and I think everybody in the Valley always likes it because there’s nothing like it.”
Reminiscing... 30 Years Ago This Week
President Ronald Reagan wrote a resident a letter Lisa Ann Vargas, a first-grader at Leo Elementary in La Joya received a letter from President Ronald Reagan. Vargas, Reagan’s self-proclaimed No. 1 fan, had invited the president to visit her class. Reagan wrote back that he couldn’t accept, but he offered words of encouragement and appreciation. The Paelaez-Cimmarron feud ended peacefully After weeks of fighting, the feud between the proposed Palaez subdivision and Cimarron developers ended. Once again Las Villas de Cimarron, the former Palaez subdivision was redesigned to include 40 lots and more green space to address flooding issues. Ribbon cuttings were held The Mission Chamber of Commerce hosted ribbon cutting ceremonies for Kathy’s Krafts, at 911 Ragland Road, El Dorado Acres, off Highway 492, and Mission Palm Estates, off Stewart Road.
arm temperatures didn’t keep hundreds of Mission residents from attending the city’s annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony at Leo Peña Placita Park, but the hot chocolate didn’t seem to have the same flair. “Out tree is an extension and a reminder of our love for life and for you, the Lord of our lives,” Father Roy Snipes, of Our Lady of Guadalupe Church. “We gratefully remember Christ, who truly we are preparing to celebrate, was born with his hand on the wood of the manger, and he grew up working up with wood and died with his hand on the wood of the cross, so that the darkness of sin and death would be conquered forever for us all.” Mission High School’s mariachi group performed, tiny dancers performed dressed like tiny Christmas trees and cloggers all took a turn entertaining the crowd
Dancers perform to a rendition of “Oh, Christmas Tree,” at the Mission tree lighting ceremony last week. Progress Times photo by Julie Silva
as the city raffled out bikes and toys. The heat didn’t stifle Santa’s style as he rode in like a rock star on a four-wheeler after city officials flipped the light switch.
He was quickly surrounded by adoring children with their Paparazzi parents snapping pictures before city officials restored order and steered everyone back into an orderly line.
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opinion By Ed Sterling Texas Press Association
STATE CAPITAL HIGHLIGHTS
USTIN — Gov. Rick Perry on Dec. 3 ordered state agencies to check the employment eligibility of current and prospective employees by using E-Verify, an Internet-based system that allows employers to determine the eligibility of their employees to work in the United States. Perry also urged Congress to pass legislation “to provide the resources necessary to secure our southern border.” Perry’s announcements come in the wake of President Obama’s executive action on immigration on Nov. 20. At the time, in a national broadcast, Obama said he would take various actions because of the protracted unwillingness of Congress to pass an immigration reform bill that addresses the legal status of millions of undocumented workers employed in Texas and other states by American business owners. A White House news release lists three elements of the president’s executive actions: 1. Cracking down on illegal immigration at the border to increase the chances that anyone attempting to cross illegally will be caught and sent back; continuing the surge of resources that effectively reduced the number of unaccompanied children crossing the border illegally last summer; and centralizing border security command-and-control. 2. Deporting felons, not families to focus on the deportation of people who threaten national security and public safety; and directing immigration enforcement to place anyone suspected of terrorism, violent criminals, gang members and recent border crossers at the top of
the deportation priority list. 3. Accountability through criminal background checks and taxes, to hold accountable those undocumented immigrants who have lived in the United States for more than five years and are parents of U.S. citizens or Lawful Permanent Residents. Meanwhile, Perry said, “It’s clear now more than ever that Congress must finally pass a bill that dedicates the necessary resources to securing our border, once and for all. Without border security, immigration reform is a fruitless exercise.” States challenge president Texas was joined by 16 other states on Dec. 3 in filing a court challenge to President Obama’s executive actions on immigration that he announced last month. Texas Attorney General and governor-elect Greg Abbott, who filed the lawsuit in the U.S. District Court Southern District of Texas, wrote that the U.S. Constitution’s Take Care Clause “limits the President’s power and ensures that he will faithfully execute Congress’s laws – not rewrite them under the guise of ‘prosecutorial discretion.’” Also claimed is that the Department of Homeland Security’s directive was issued without following the Administrative Procedure Act’s rule-making guidelines and awards “legal benefits to individuals whose conduct contradicts the priorities of Congress.” States joining Texas in the lawsuit are Alabama, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Maine, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, North Carolina, South Carolina, South Dakota, Utah, West Virginia and Wiscon-
sin. Task force issues report Gov. Perry on Dec. 4 announced the Texas Task Force on Infectious Disease Preparedness and Response has issued a 174-page report regarding the state’s capabilities to prepare for and respond to infectious diseases, such as the Ebola virus and other emerging pathogens. Examples of the report’s findings and recommendations: • Education of diverse health care professionals is essential for the initial identification, assessment, triage, care and isolation of patients with Ebola or other uncommon but high-consequence infectious diseases. • Consideration should be given to the care, monitoring and disposition of domestic animals, especially pets. • The state and external partners should develop a “mobile app” for real-time collection and monitoring of temperature and symptom data. • Establishment of bio-containment treatment facilities and a pediatric unit specializing in the care of infants and children with Ebola and other high consequence infectious diseases. Former Senate secretary dies Betty King, who served as secretary of the Texas Senate from 1977 to 2001, died Dec. 1 in Austin. She was 89. First hired as a House Appropriations Committee clerk in 1947, her patience, grace and unflappability were soon known and long appreciated, until her retirement in 2001. Plans are for a private burial in the Texas State Cemetery.
December 12, 2014 page 4 www.progresstimes.net NEWS | SPORTS | ENTERTAINMENT | PHOTOS Letter to the Editor:
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Ochoa and the like
To the editor: t is very rare indeed that the correctness of a decision by voters can be measured before the incumbent leaves office. We in Hidalgo County are witnessing this kind of substantiation. Our outgoing DA, by his probation agreement with Hidalgo County JP Ochoa, has just provided a magnificent example of what has been and is still wrong with the justice system in our county. Yes Mr. Guerra, I agree with you. You will be and are being criticized for this decision since it is a perfect example of the “good old boy” club to which you and many of our public officials may belong.
It is also additional evidence of the “failure to act” which got you replaced. Apparently there is evidence substantiating a history of this JP’s breaking the law for a long period of time so it isn't an extenuating circumstance that might merit probation. I have watched this type of activity since arriving in the valley 13 years ago. For me they started with the defunct La Joya Water system, took its toll on the cities of Hidalgo and Progreso, involved well-known families, spread through the school boards like wild fire, brought down the Sheriff and his department and now is touching other high offices in Hidalgo
County with implications of vote buying with drugs and money. Now we see Justice Longoria released for insufficient evidence by the same DA even though apparently she intimidated the police, under color of authority, into not following the same evidentiary and custody procedures that all of us common folk would have to comply with if the same suspicion of drunk driving fell on us. I hope her resignation is pending. Enough already! This is the USA where officials are not above the law. Signed, Ned Sheats Mission
beyond the battlefield and directly threatens the safety of their families. Congress should give these service members the appropriate recognition and respect for their service in times of grave danger, and I am honored to work with Sen. Cornyn and Reps. O’Rourke, Carter and Williams on this legislation.” “There’s no reason our troops serving in West Africa shouldn’t be granted the same tax benefits as those in active duty combat,” Cornyn said. “I’m pleased to team up with Sen. Cruz and my colleagues in the House on this important bipartisan effort for Texas military families.” “I have proposed this bipartisan bill as a way to support Service Members, like those from Fort Bliss, who are taking on the difficult and life-saving assignment to stem the Ebola epidemic in West Africa,” O’Rourke said. “Our soldiers who are at war fighting to eradicate Ebola are faced with an enemy unlike any other. Instead of bullets, our soldiers are fighting against a deadly invisible disease,” Carter said. “This is a dangerous situation for them. I pray each day
for their safety and health as they fight this new battle. If the President is going to put our sons and daughters in the middle of this war, then they need the full support of the nation. This bill will ensure our soldiers are taken care of back at home and are provided with the same benefits any combat soldier is afforded.” “Our all-volunteer troops go above and beyond to save and protect lives, both at home and abroad,” Williams said. “With their involvement in the fight against Ebola, a different kind of enemy, it is appropriate and necessary to provide relief to these troops and their families just as they are providing relief to potentially thousands of West Africans. I thank my colleague, Sen. Cruz, for his leadership on this important issue.” Specifically, S. 2965 and H.R. 5804 compensate those who are performing the hazardous mission Operation United Assistance as if they were deployed to any other Executive Order-designated combat zone. The benefit shall only apply to service members who are required to undergo a 21-day quarantine.
Cruz bill to aid military heroes fighting ebola
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ASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, announced that the Operation United Assistance Tax Exclusion Act, which provides that members of the Armed Forces performing hazardous humanitarian services to combat the spread of Ebola in West Africa shall be entitled to appropriate tax benefits, has been introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives. Rep. Beto O’Rourke, D-Texas, filed the bipartisan companion legislation, H.R. 5804, in the House and it is co-sponsored by Texas Republican Reps. John Carter and Roger Williams. Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, has signed on as a co-sponsor of Cruz’s Senate bill, S. 2965. “Once our Armed Forces are placed in harm’s way, Congress, and the Commander-in-Chief have a responsibility to support them and to provide security for the families who remain behind while they face danger,” Cruz said. “The morbidity rate of Ebola poses a substantial danger to those who have been sent to combat it and, for the first time, this risk extends
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TEXAS PRESS ASSOCIATION
The Progress Times (USPS 971-420; ISSN 0890-2666) is published each Friday by Mission Publishing Co., 1217 N. Conway, Mission, Texas 78572, (956) 585-4893. Subscriptions $20 annual in Hidalgo County; $25 outside of Hidalgo County. Second class postage paid in Mission, Texas 78572. ©2014 Mission Publishing Company, Inc. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the PROGRESS TIMES, P.O. Box 399, Mission Texas 78573.
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December 12, 2014
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Young Lady Diamondbacks are work in progress
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By Luciano Guerra ifteen games into their inaugural season, the Pioneer Lady Diamondbacks are struggling to find their identity. With five sophomores, six juniors and only two seniors on the Lady Diamondbacks roster, head coach Nicole Villarreal is not yet sure who her key players or starters are going to be once the district schedule begins against Valley View Tuesday of next week. An extremely young team is just one of the challenges the Mercedes High School graduate is facing in this her 19th year of coaching. “I don't have any kids
with any with varsity experience,” explained Villarreal. “I've got kids who played at the freshman and JV level last season, so our lack of experience is our biggest challenge. We are using each game as a teaching tool, utilizing game film to teach after games. Our practices are filled with fundamentals, footwork, form, spacing, etc.” With a 2-13 start to their season, the Lady Diamondbacks are learning the hard way that developing a winning program takes time. However, Villarreal is making the most of each game whether it results in a win or loss.
“Our better basketball is ahead of us and the girls understand that, but it's not easy,” Villarreal said. ‘”Losing is tough, I understand that, but at this point we need to lose the games not the lessons that come from losing. ‘Lose the game, not the lesson,’ is what I've continuously told the girls.’” As for how she expects her coaching philosophy to help her build a successful program at Pioneer High, Villarreal said, “My philosophy entails developing the program through fundamentals and skills while teaching the game I'm passionate about. It's going to take hard work and commitment from myself, my coaching staff and all the kids in the program to accomplish this.” Tuesday evening the Lady Diamondbacks suffered a 55-45 loss at the hands of the 8-5 Palmview Lady Lobos. While the double digit margin may give the impression of the game being an easy win for Palmview, that was not at all the case. With five minutes to go in the game the Lady Diamondbacks gave the Lady Lobos a scare when they
came within one point of tying the game at 42. However, with less than 60 seconds remaining on the clock, and Pioneer still within striking distance, Palmview closed out the game with six unanswered points to seal the 10-point victory. After the game Villarreal expressed her satisfaction with the way her girls played despite the loss. “I’m really proud of my girls’ fight,” shared Villarreal. “I think we did some really good things tonight and I believe that there will be some carryover to our district season which opens next Tuesday. I saw some positive things from my girls tonight and as I keep telling my team, every game is a lesson.” The Lady Diamondbacks will be looking to end their non-district schedule on a winning note tonight as they travel to Rio Hondo to play the Lady Bobcats. They will then be opening their inaugural district season at home Tuesday against the Valley View Lady Tigers. Tip-off for tonight’s game is scheduled for 7:30 while Tuesday night’s game is scheduled to tip-off at 6.
leadership from their team captains and returning varsity players. Players such as senior guard Monica Noyola and junior guard Samantha Gutierrez. “Senior Monica Noyola is a team captain and she has elevated her game to set the tone for the rest of our kids,” Reyna said. “On the floor she is a leader and she is averaging about nine points per game. However, the one person who has dominated and has blossomed out of nowhere thus far is junior Samantha Gutierrez. She’s the smallest kid on the team, but she can do it all – she can play inside and outside and she is smart, quick and speedy as well. The fact that she’s a lefty gives us a lot of leverage to move with.” Prior to Palmview’s win over the Lady Diamondbacks, Reyna shared how others are beginning to notice the Lady Lobos’ early season success.
“We are currently at 7-5 overall so we’ve established a good name for ourselves so far,” shared Reyna. “People are noticing that we’ve improved and they’re telling us that we’re looking good. But for me the important thing is to get it done in district because it’s not going to matter unless we can continue our success in district play.” As part of the newly formed District 30-6A, Palmview will be competing with teams from La Joya High, Juarez-Lincoln, McAllen High, McAllen
ABOVE: Sharyland Pioneer junior post Marie Aguilar is covered by Palmview’s Ariana Ramirez and Cyndar Magallon as she attempts to take a shot during the Lady Lobos’ 55-45 win over the Lady Diamondbacks. LEFT: Palmview’s Cyndar Magallon and Pioneer’s Chelsea Chandler fight for control of the ball during the second period. Progress Times photos by Luciano Guerra
Lady Lobos turning heads, topple Pioneer
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By Luciano Guerra espite having one of the district’s top scorers on the roster, the 2013-2014 season was not pretty for the Palmview Lady Lobos basketball team. In head coach Anisa Reyna’s first season at Palmview, after a five-year stint as head coach at Juarez-Lincoln, the Lady Lobos managed to win only three district games. Two of those were against the La Joya Lady Coyotes and the other against the Lady Huskies. With an 8-5 non-district record thus far this season, however, the Lady Lobos are making the competition take notice. Their most recent win was a 55-45 home victory against Sharyland Pioneer Tuesday. “Last year was more of a transitional season for us,” explained Reyna. “I came in here and tried picking up the pieces from what was left
over from the previous year. We had a couple of seniors that were impactful and kind of left their marks with this group here. One of those was Priscilla Trevino, and we’re trying to pay homage to her this year by building on what she started. Unfortunately, she was not able to experience the kind of success that we have already experienced this year but she definitely left a mark on our program.” “We have a new look this year with a lot of speed and a lot of height, which we have not had in the past and which gives us a lot of potential for the future,” added Reyna. “Those are things which we’ve been grooming over the spring and the summer and we’re seeing the fruits of our labor pay off as we approach the start of our district schedule.” If the Lady Lobos are going to continue their winning ways they will need strong
Memorial, Nikki Rowe and Mission, once district play begins next week. While the McAllen teams are considered to be the stronger teams in the district, Reyna is optimistic about the Lady Lobos’ chances of competing for one of the district’s four playoff slots. “You can never count out the McAllen schools, but at the same time we’re going to establish a name for ourselves and we’re going to go out there and earn respect from our opponents,” said Reyna. “We’ve put in a lot of
time and hard work so we’re really excited about being on the floor this year in 6A. We feel like we deserve an opportunity to be considered as contenders but we know we have to earn it.” The Lady Lobos will be closing out their non-district schedule with a home game against IDEA Quest tonight. They will then be opening their district schedule on the road at McAllen Memorial against the Lady Mustangs Tuesday evening. Both games are scheduled to tip-off at 7:30.
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December 12, 2014
December 12, 2014
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lifestyle
Pictured are Mission FFA members who recently attended at the Area 10 FFA Regional Career Development Events. On the front row from left to right are Sebastian Guevara; Amanda Granados and Sebastian Martinez; second row: Christopher Venecia, Andrea Gonzalez, Briana Saenz and Daniel Rodriguez; third row, members of the Greenhand Farm Skills team: Sebastian Carrio, Rebeckah Nolan and Cesar Vargas; fourth row, members of the Senior FFA Quiz team: Jose Calderon, Julissa Alvarez and Johanna Jimenez.
Students advance to state semi-finals
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hile most Mission High School (MHS) students were enjoying the start of their Thanksgiving holiday break, members of the Mission FFA Chapter were competing, earning awards and advancing to state competition. The MHS FFA Parliamentary Procedure Team placed second at the Area 10 FFA Regional Career Development Events held at Texas
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A&M-Kingsville on Monday, Nov. 24. The team now advances to the Texas FFA State Semi-Finals to be held in Huntsville. Parliamentary procedure team members are Amanda Granados, president; Briana Saenz, vice president; Sebastian Martinez, secretary; Andrea Gonzalez, treasurer; Sebastian Guevara, reporter; Christopher Venecia, sentinel; Daniel Rodriguez, stu-
dent advisor. Three members of the Mission FFA Chapter also received results from the National Qualifying Professional Parliamentarians Seminar. All three, who took the exams and assignments in late October, passed and have received Professional Accredited Parliamentarian Certification. They are Jose Calderon, Benito Garza, and Johanna Jimenez.
EWBC to host Winter Fairy Festival
articipate in an enchanting afternoon of fairies, magic and nature during the first Winter Fairy Festival on Saturday, Dec. 13, from 1 to 5 p.m. at the Edinburg World Birding Center, 714 S. Raul Longoria Rd. Children can enjoy an afternoon of crafts and magical play, build a fairy gar-
den home in the gardens and compete for the most creative abode, create floral crowns, wizard hats and magic wands. At 2 p.m., they will head indoors for a unique classroom lesson to learn about the clever dwellings of animal friends. Children are encouraged to dress in their best fairy or woodland sprite costume.
The day will include face painting, storytelling, a photo booth, and sweet snacks. The fee is $4 per child and includes a natural materials bundle. Additional bundles will be $1. There is no fee for infants, adults and/or guardians. For more information, call 381-9922. Reservations are recommended.
session is picked up after the holidays on Saturday, Jan. 3, 2015, from 1 to 4 p.m. In this four part hands-on course, participants will learn the basics of pottery, create their own pieces out of local clay, and hand-fire them in a custom-built kiln at the Center. Class members will each take home a decorative mug and whistle they crafted during from beginning to end. No experience is necessary. The fee for the adult pro-
gram is $35 for EWBC members and $38 for non-members. The fee covers all four sessions and includes a personal starter kit. There are no partial refunds for any missed classes. Space is limited. Reservations are required no later than Monday, Dec. 15. The EWBC is located at 714 S. Raul Longoria Road. For more information, call 381-9922 or visit www.edinburgwbc.org.
Ceramics class begins Dec. 18
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DINBURG – The Edinburg World Birding Center is hosting a special series of classes, “Handcrafting Ceramics,” in a total of four inclusive sessions beginning in December. Local artist and recent University of Texas Pan American graduate, Adrian Rodriguez, will lead the series. It’s set to begin Thursday, Dec. 18, and run through Saturday, Dec. 20, from 2 to 4 p.m. each day and the final
December 12, 2014 page 8 www.progresstimes.net NEWS | SPORTS | ENTERTAINMENT | PHOTOS
Events Calendar
Dec ember 13 – The Aglow International Mission Spanish Lighthouse Chapter will host their Christmas party at Taco Ole, 2316 N. Conway in Mission, from 4 to 6 p.m. They will share testimonials of God’s hand in their lives this past year. For more information, call Delia Bazan at 240-5813; Liza Razo, 776-8505; or Connie Escamilla, 279-7887. Dec ember 13 – 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. Dec ember 13 – A Christmas Bazaar scheduled in at Heavin Memorial Park on the Resaca in San Benito offers food and drink booths, along with arts and crafts items for sale. Food, arts and crafts and corporate vendors are welcomed. Call 361-3804, Ext. 301, to sign up. Registration forms for parade entries and vendors will be posted on Oct. 15 at www.cityofsanbenito.com. Dec ember 13 – 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 3613804, Ext. 302 or 304, for more information. Dec ember 19 – The Mission Computer Club will meet at 10 a.m. in the Speer Memorial Library Community Room. Focus is on Windows, but Mac, Linux and computer “gadgets” are also addressed. Demonstrations with question and answer time are part of each meeting. All levels of users are welcome to attend, and meetings are free. Contact Edna Morales at the library at 580-8478 for more information. Dec ember 19 – The Edinburg Scenic Wetlands and World Birding Center hosts a presentation by Javier de Leon on “How to be a Citizen Scientist” from 6 to 7 p.m. Participants will learn how to help in data collection for birds, butterflies and other animals found in the Valley. De Leon, superintendent at Estero Llano Grande State Park in Weslaco, is an avid birder and butterfly watcher. Admission is free. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and the presentation begins at 6 p.m. Seats are limited; call 381-9922 to reserve a spot. The EWBC is located at 714 S. Raul Longoria Rd. in Edinburg. To see the complete Events Calendar for the coming weeks, go to www.ptrgv.com
June Lockhart remembers 1938 ‘A Christmas Carol’
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By Nick Thomas
eleased last month on Blu-ray, the 1938 version of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” has long been a favorite seasonal TV movie. “It’s a short film, only about an hour, so there was no premiere when it first came out,” recalled June Lockhart, who made her film debut at the age of 13 as Belinda Cratchit in the Christmas classic. “The studio just put it out as a program filler with their feature Christmas movie for that year.” “A Christmas Carol” is especially memorable for Lockhart because her father and mother, Gene and Kathleen Lockhart, also appear in the film. “I thought my parents were wonderful as the Cratchits, and it was just great fun to see how a film was made,” said Lockhart. “I loved the Victorian costumes.” Prior to filming, Lockhart was very familiar with the story. “We used to perform it every Christmas at home for our dinner guests,” she recalled. “So I had already appeared in it, with my parents, in our living room for many years prior to doing it for MGM. We read from a script that my father had prepared from the original story. We would have wonderful actors like Doris Lloyd or Walter Kingsford playing parts and Leo G. Carroll would play Scrooge. In the film, Scrooge was played by Reginald Owen who was just a lovely, lovely man.” Carroll, who portrayed Mr. Waverly in the ‘60s TV spy series “The Man from U.N.C.L.E.,” was a close friend of the Lockhart family
June Lockhart (left) with her parents, Gene and Kathleen Lockhart for the 1938 classic, “A Christmas Carol.”
and always “Uncle Leo” to young June. He was cast as Marley’s ghost in the movie. A decade later, when Lockhart made her 1947 Broadway debut in “For Love or Money,” for which she won a Tony Award, Carroll visited her dressing room after the first matinee. “Standing at the door in a great coat with big black collar, cane, homburg hat, gloves, and with his blue eyes sparkling, he said ‘Oh June, much better than I expected!’” recalled Lockhart. “Coming from him, it was a great accolade.” Today, “A Christmas Carol” is a favorite of Lockhart’s family who are fond of quoting her first scene.
“My daughter, Junie, and granddaughter, Christianna, have never let me forget that the first words I ever spoke in movies were: ‘I know, I know – sausages!” laughed June. “It’s become a family joke and we all shriek with laughter when we watch it now. Watching the film has become a family tradition each year. And now, to be able to watch it with my grandchildren – well, who gets to do something like that?” However, the film did leave Lockhart with one unpleasant memory. “One thing I do remember was feeling quite nauseated on the set one day from some-
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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.
December 12, 2014
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‘Snow Day’ forecast for Mission residents
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nce again it’s going to be a “Snow Day in the Valley” on this Saturday, Dec. 13, and Conway Avenue Baptist Church is hosting a white Christmas for the community. According to Pastor Johnny Mora, they are bringing in over 18,000 pounds of snow shipped in to cover the lawn and is inviting the community to come out and make memories. Families
can build a snow man, sip hot cocoa and eat pan dulce, take family photos and enjoy winter rides, including a train ride for children, moon jumps and more. All the events and activities are free, and the public is encouraged to invite a friend. For more information, call 585-2413. The church is located at the southwest corner of Conway and Griffin Parkway in Mission.
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2015 Master Naturalist sign-up is underway T he Rio Grande Valley Texas Master Naturalist is training class in Mission this spring for volunteers wanting to learn about natural resources and conservation management. The Texas Master Naturalist program aims to develop a corps of well-informed citizen volunteers to educate their communities about the management of natural resources. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and Texas A&M AgriLife Exten-
sion Service co-sponsor the program. The main qualification needed to become a certified Texas Master Naturalist is an interest in learning and playing an active part in conservation. Volunteers will receive a minimum of 40 hours training from local experts, professors, and field staff. Training topics include interpretation and management of natural resources, ecological concepts, eco regions in Texas and natural systems management.
Volunteers are then asked to provide 40 hours of service a year in community education, demonstration and habitat enhancement projects in order to maintain certification as a Texas Master Naturalist. They are also expected to pursue a minimum of eight hours of advance training in areas of personal interest. However, many of the volunteers will go above and beyond their basic requirements once involved and are encouraged to develop personal projects connecting the
mission of the chapter and state-wide program. An orientation will kick off the course at the Biblioteca las Americas (Med-High Campus) at Mile 3 West and Expressway 83 in Mercedes on Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2015, from 6 to 9 p.m. The Upper Valley training will then meet on Tuesday evenings, Jan. 20 through March 24, from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Bentsen RGV State Park at 2800 S. Bentsen Palm Dr. in
wide range of activities that celebrate the Jewish holiday: olive oil tastings, traditional Hanukkah and Jewish songs, games like spinning the Dreidel, Israeli dancing from The Rikudim Group, and a talk from Rabbi Claudio Javier Kogan, MD, MBE, MED, about the history of the holiday. The IMAS Cultural Series Program was created to bring awareness and cel(1891-1957), was one of Hollywood’s most recognizable character actors throughout the ‘30s and ‘40s. And her mother, Kathleen Lockhart (1895-1978), had a 26-year movie career appearing in 40 films, about half alongside her husband. But “A Christmas Carol” was the only time June appeared on film with either of her parents. “So it always had a sweet spot in the hearts of the Lockhart family,” she said. “It’s
ebrate the various cultures found in the Rio Grande Valley community. Including this event, it currently includes the “Lunar New Year,” “Enchanting India” and “Dia de los Muertos Festival.” General admission is $7 for adults, $5 for seniors and student with I.D. and $4 for children ages 4 to 12. For more information, go to imasonline.org or call 682-0123. grand to see it on TV every year and it certainly lives on as a charming little picture.” “A Christmas Carol” (1938) is scheduled to air on TCM on Dec 18 and 25. (Nick Thomas teaches at Auburn University at Montgomery, Ala., and has written features, columns, and interviews for over 450 magazines and newspapers. Lockhart, now age 89, participated in this interview from her Santa Monica, Calif. in a series of phone calls.”
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Pastorela tradition continues at MOSTHistory IMAS celebrates Hanukkah
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DINBURG – The staff at the Museum of South Texas History invites the community to celebrate the family-friendly holiday tradition with their Fourth Annual La Pastorela (A Shepherds’ Play) from 1 to 5 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 14. Highlighting the afternoon’s festivities and showing at 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. will be the “La Pastorela” play, with an interactive performance by Edinburg folkloric dance group Conceptos Entidad Dancística that teaches the story of the shepherds seeking the Christ child. To keep the culture alive, families and friends across the Valley gather to celebrate this important time of year steeped in religious, cultural traditions and history. The pastorelas, or shepherds’ plays, are performed throughout the Christmas season by both amateur and profession-
al actors. The play incorporates audience participation and is often a witty, theatrical presentation that dates back to Mexico's Colonial period when Roman Catholic missionaries attempted to convert and teach the scripture through the dramatization of stories from the Bible. In South Texas, pastorelas were traditionally performed in ranch pastures and rural communities. Rio Grande City maintained the tradition for about 100 years. Now in its fourth year at MOSTHistory, the tale of shepherds following the star of Bethlehem to the birthplace of Christ, with temptations along the way, continues to be a Valley holiday tradition. The distinct, sweet aroma of Mexican hot chocolate with canela, or cinnamon, wafting through the air is a reminder it’s that season once again and vendors will be selling it at the indoor festival
along with holiday crafts and other foods and beverages. Family members and friends will be able to capture the moment in the holiday photo booth. Admission ranges from $4 to $7 depending on age. The museum is located at 200 N. Closner Blvd. in Edinburg. For more information, call 383-6911.
Monday through Friday to register their children. Proof of residence must be provided. Call 432-0760 for further information. • Estero Llano Grande State Park invites the public to “Bunuelo Bites and Christmas Lights” with Santa on the covered deck on the lake. From 9 to 11a.m., join Santa and the park’s naturalists on a guided nature walk. From 7 to 10 p.m., walk the lighted path to the visitor’s center for crafts and activities for the kids, sing Christmas carols around the piano and stroll by the tinseled trolley to Pauraque Hall for hot chocolate and sweet cinnamon Christmas bunuelos. Park admission is $5 for adults and free for children 12 and under. Call 565-3919 and to make a reservation. • This year’s theme for the Longest Lighted Christmas Parade in South Texas is “A Christmas of Sharing.” Marching bands, strutting groups, novelty and religious themed floats will parade through downtown San Benito from 6 to 10:30 p.m. The event includes a food drive campaign to benefit the San Benito Food Pantry. Items can be brought to drop-off points along the parade route. December 14 • The Rio Grande Valley Concert Band will present their annual Christmas concert at 3 p.m. at Our Savior Lutheran Church, 1105 W. Fern in McAllen. Under the direction of Gene Goede and Gary Meidt, the program will include the Christmas favorite “Sleigh Ride” by Leroy Anderson, a march titled “Santa Meets Sousa” and a fun selection called “Cowboy Christmas. “ The concert is open to the public. A free will offering will be taken. December 16 • The McAllen Symphonic Band, under the direction of Rogelio Olivarez, will give a holiday concert, “Stille Nacht,” at 7:30 p.m. at Trinity Worship Center in McAllen. Tickets are $5 and may be purchased at all Wilder Resorts locations, Weslaco Chamber of Commerce, all McAllen Community Centers and at the door the evening of the concert (if available). Visit the Band’s website at www.mcallentownband.org for more information. December 17 • Country music artist Robert Earl Keen is taking his “Merry Christmas from the Fam-O-Lee” holiday show on tour this season. He is performing with his band at Las Palmas Race Park, 9809 N. Taylor Rd. in Mission, on Dec. 17. Tickets, $28 for general
admission and up to $49 for reserved tables, are available at ticketfly.com. December 18 • The Mission High School (MHS) Eagle Choir along with members of the community will present a special holiday concert at 7:30 p.m. in the Mission High School Auditorium. December 19 • Ballet Folklórico South Texas College and Ballet Folklórico de la Universidad de Guanajuato will share the stage on Friday, Dec. 19, at the McAllen Civic Auditorium, 1300 S. 10th St., for one performance only as part of a cultural exchange that includes this one-day only performance. Tickets are available at the McAllen Convention Center Box Office and on the day of the performance. All tickets are $12, general admission.
For additional, contact Victor Gómez at 872-2070 or at vgomez@southtexascollege. edu. • The “Pirate & Princess Adventure” of Disney Junior Live On Tour! at State Farm Arena. It’s in town for one day only with shows at 1, 4 and 7 p.m. featuring characters from the smash hits “Sofia the First” and “Jake and the Never Land Pirates.” Ticket prices range from $15 to $47 and are available at ticketmaster.com or by calling 800-745-3000. December 20 • The Pharr Events Center, 3000 N. Cage, hosts the Eli Young Band with doors open at 7 p.m. All tickets are $35 for general admission. Go to ticketmaster.com or call 800-7453000.
COMING ATTRACTIONS
NORTH POLE from pg 2
table captures the enthusiasm of Santa’s pending arrival as the tops of houses spell out “Santa” as if to beckon Santa not miss a stop on the path of his global flight. All are landscaped with trees, hills, mountains, river and more to complete the setting. The museum is open to the general public on Tuesdays through Fridays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission is free.
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cALLEN – The International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) presents their newest addition to its Cultural Series Program, “Hanukkah: Festival of Lights.” The festival will take place this Sunday, Dec. 14, from 1to 5 p.m., and is included in the price of general admission. “Hanukkah: Festival of Lights” will consists of a
LOCKHART
from pg 8
thing I had eaten the night before,” she recalled. “Then they placed a bowl of mashed parsnips in front of me during the Christmas dinner scene. The stench made me so ill, the prop man had to replace the dish with potatoes. I’ve avoided parsnips ever since!” Lockhart went on to star in several TV series including “Lassie” and “Lost in Space.” Her father, Gene Lockhart from pg 2
December 27 • Kyle Park performs at Las Palmas Race Park, 9809 N. Taylor Rd. in Mission, with gates opening at 7 p.m. Gates open at 7 p.m. Tickets are available at ticketfly.com or by calling 877-435-9849. Prices increase the day of the event. Weekly • Catholic War Veterans Post #1065 in Mission invites the public to their “Get Away Thursday Dance” held every Thursday evening, from 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. It is located at 500 W. Business 83. Music by the Electro Band provides country western, Tejano, the Oldies, cumbias and more. No cover charge. Call 5835961 or email Doodrey@ netzero.com for more information. (To see the complete Coming Attractions calendar, go to www.ptrgv.com.)
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MASTER NATURLIST from pg 9
Mission. It includes 10 classes, plus four weekend field trips. To register and for more information, visit www. rgctmn.org. Registration is due Dec. 31 and is limited to
25 students per location. The fee is $150; limited scholarships are available. Background checks are required. For more information, contact Tom Butler at 2tmb@earthlink.net or Marisa Oliva at stxbordertmn@ gmail.com.
December 12, 2014
Feds say high-level cartel operator arrested in Mission
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ederal agents said they arrested a high-ranking leader in the Gulf Cartel in Mission this week. Juan Francisco “Paco 77” Martinez-Ramirez has been charged with conspiracy to
launder money and intentionally attempting to conduct a financial transaction involving the proceeds of a specified unlawful activity. He is due in federal court today. Court documents allege Martinez-Ramirez coordinated the trafficking of drugs from Mexico into the United States and they allege he helped smuggle the proceeds as well as firearms into Mexico. “Martinez-Ramirez has no legitimate source of income and has used his drug related proceeds to purchase several luxury vehicles and real properties,” states a criminal complaint, adding that he used the names of members of this drug trafficking organization to conceal his ownership. According to the complaint, a warrant for a cooperating defendant was issued in September 2013 on charges of conspiracy with intent to distribute cocaine, conspiracy with intent to distribute marijuana and conspiracy to launder money. Since May 2014, “Agents have seized multi-ton quantities of marijuana and multi-kilogram quantities of cocaine belonging to the cooperating defendant’s drug trafficking organization.” The cooperating defen-
dant was arrested Oct. 9 in Edinburg during a traffic stop. The next day, federal agents executed a search warrant at the home at 412 S. Moorefield Road in Mission. As a result, the criminal complaint states, $47,200 believed to be drug-related proceeds was seized. The previous owner of the house told agents she sold the house at the first of October for $110,000 in cash. She told agents she was instructed to file the deed in another woman’s name, the complaint states, adding that agents found through their investigation that the unnamed cooperating defendant previously arrested is the one that told the previous owner to put the house in the other woman’s name. The cooperating defendant allegedly provided Martinez-Ramirez with $150,000 to buy the house, and the complaint states that Martinez-Ramirez told the cooperating defendant he would place the house under a different name to disguise the ownership. After the purchase, the cooperating defendant told Martinez-Ramirez to keep the change, the complaint states. The woman who is listed as owner of the house told agents that a friend asked if she was willing to open a
utilities account at a home in Mission because the residents at the house were in the country illegally and did not have the proper documents to do it on their own. She said she was given only $110 to open the account and no other compensation, according to the complaint. She said she did not know she was listed as the owner of the house.
Alton readies for parade, toy giveaway
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he city of Alton’s annual parade is scheduled for 11 a.m. Saturday. It will start at Cantu Elementary and extend to City Hall before ending at the Alton Recreation Center, 349 W. Dawes Ave., for a toy giveaway. Children 8 years old and younger are eligible for a toy, but they must be residents of Alton and they must register and receive a gift voucher beforehand. Registration is open at the recreation center from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Friday. For more information, call (956) 432-0760.
December 12, 2014
obituaries
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Martha O. Hernandez ISSION – Martha O. Hernandez, 78, passed away on Thursday, Dec. 4, 2014, at Rio Grande Regional Hospital in McAllen. Mrs. Lopez was born in San Felipe, Guanajuato, Mex. on April 12, 1936, to Arnulfo Ortiz and Antonia Castañeda. Survivors include her husband, Manuel Hernandez; children, Mariana Hernandez, Ana Espinoza, Rosalinda Rosales, Antonia Tillman, Marta Elena Rusling, Manuel Hernandez Jr. and Vicente Hernandez; and 18 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. A funeral mass was held on Dec. 9 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Mission. Interment followed at Laurel Hill Cemetery in Mission. Ramona Escareño López ISSION – Ramona Escareño López, 93, of Mission passed away on Thursday, Dec. 4, 2014. A lifelong Mission resident, she was a member
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Notices
Pilar Alvarez MISSION – Pilar Alvarez, 95, passed away on Friday, Dec. 5, 2014, at McAllen Medical Center. A funeral service was held on Dec. 8 at Virgil Wilson Mortuary in Mission. Burial followed at the RGV State Veteran Cemetery in Mission. Elias Benavides MISSION - Elias Benavides, 89, passed away on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2014, in Mission. A funeral mass was held on Dec. 8 at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church in McAllen. Burial followed at Panteon Municipal in San Vicente, Los Herreras, Nuevo Leon, Mex., under the direction of Virgil Wilson Mortuary in Mission. Damaso de Leon MISSION - Damaso de Leon, 91, passed away on Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2014, at Mission Regional Medical Center. Henrietta Goynes MISSION – Henrietta Goynes, 92, passed away on
of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church and involved in several community organizations. Survivors include her children Beatriz Garza, Abraham López, David López, Ruben López, Diana Holloway Tubb; sister, Victoria Escareño Rodriguez; and 15 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Matias López, Sr.; son, Matias López, Jr.; sister, Maria Espinoza; and brother, Tony Escareño. A funeral mass was held on Dec. 8 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Mission. Burial followed at Valley Memorial Gardens in McAllen. Armando R. Perez ALMHURST – Armando R. Perez, 69, passed away on Sunday, Dec. 7, 2014, at Mission Regional Medical Center. Mr. Perez was a lifelong resident of Mission. He owned and operated Wagon Trail Nursery. Survivors include his wife of 49 years, Elida Pe-
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Saturday, Dec. 6, 2014, at McAllen Heart Hospital. Narciso Guzman MISSION – Narciso Guzman, 79, passed away on Thursday, Dec. 4, 2014. A funeral mass was held on Monday, Dec. 8, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Mission. Burial followed at the Rio Grande Valley State Veterans Cemetery in Mission. Sofia Salinas MISSION - Sofia Salinas, 87, passed away on Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2014, at her home in Mission. Arrangements are under the direction of Memorial Funeral Home in San Juan. Luz Serratos MISSION – Luz Serratos, infant, passed away on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2014, at Mission Regional Medical Center. Juana Maria Torres MISSION - Juana Maria Torres, 50, passed away on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2014, at her home in Mission.
rez; daughters; Dalia (Ricardo) Arce, Alma (Reynaldo) Lopez, Linda Perez, Elsa Flores, Denora Mercado; sisters, Lupita Salas, Nena Valdez, Diana Navarro, Aida Duran and Palmira Rocha; and 10 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Josefina Reyes Perez and Guadalupe Perez; and siblings, Faustino Perez, Alberto Perez, Antonio Perez, Corina Munoz and Irma Gonzalez. A prayer service was held on Dec. 9 at Ric Brown Family Funeral Home in Mission. Maria Eva Perez ISSION – Maria Eva “Evita” Perez, 86, passed away on Thursday, Dec. 4, 2014. Mrs. Perez was born in China, N.L., Mexico. Survivors include her husband of 61 years, Domingo Perez; sons, Ruben Perez and Roberto Perez; and four grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Flavia P. Garza. The funeral mass was held on Dec. 6 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Mission. Interment followed at Laurel Hill Cemetery in Mission. Goldie A. Simons LTON – Goldie A. Simons, 86, passed away on Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2014. She was born on July 30, 1928 in Groveland, FL. She was a Medical Missionary to Mexico and the Rio Grande Valley for over 47 years. Survivors include her daughters, Goldie Simons-Ruiz and Geoyce Simons of Alton; brother, Adelbert Gaskins of Apopka, Fl.; sisters, Verna Hallford of Apopka, Fl. and Rachel Collins of Angleton; and three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. A funeral service was held on Dec. 11 at Ric Brown Family Funeral Home in Mission. Burial followed at the Rio Grande Valley State Veterans Cemetery in Mission.
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Romeo Valadez Jr.
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ISSIONRomeo Valadez Jr., 50, passed away on Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2014 at Rio Grande Regional Medical Center in McAllen. He was born to Romeo Valadez and Maria Dalia Flores on March 28, 1964, in Chicago, Ill. Survivors include his wife, Carmen Ramirez; children, Joshua Valadez, Samantha Valadez, Rachel Munguia and Tiffany Mungia; his parents; sister, Celine Valadez; and four grandchildren, Elaine Garcia, Ashton Escamilla, Elanie Garcia and Emalie Garcia. A funeral mass will be held on Friday, Dec. 12, at 11 a.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Mission. Interment will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Edinburg. Arrangements are under the direction of Virgil Wilson Mortuary in Mission.
All obituaries must be submitted by the funeral home. Obituary notices are run FREE OF CHARGE in the Progress Times if they are submitted in a timely manner to run the same week of the date of death. Otherwise, there is a fee for notices submitted later than the closest possible publication date. Late obituaries will be subject to a $50 charge. Obituaries can be found online and are updated as they are received. Visit www.progresstimes.net to stay current with obituaries and other news that matters to you.
ChurCh DireCtory BREAD OF LIFE CHURCH 2820 N. Conway Ave. • 581-1411 CHURCH OF THE GOOD SHEPHERD 4501 N. McColl. - McAllen CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS 29th & Dove - McAllen 618-0884 CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS Missonaries • 580-2570 CHRISTIAN SCIENCE CHURCH 911 N. Main - McAllen 686-4241 CONWAY AVENUE BAPTIST CHURCH 1 Mi. N. Conway • 585-2413 EL FARO BIBLE CHURCH 15 miles W. of Mission on Exp. 83 Sullivan City, TX • 585-5617 EL MESIAS UNITED METHODIST 209 E. 6th • 585-2334 FAITH BAPTIST CHURCH 3 miles N. Shary Rd. • 581-1465 FAITH FELLOWSHIP BIBLE CHURCH 1 mile N. Exp. 83 on Tom Gill Rd. 519-6311 FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 1300 Doherty • 585-1442 FIRST CHRISTIAN CHURCH 12th and Miller - Mission 585-7281 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1102 Ash St. • 585-4829 for worship schedule. FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 1101 Doherty • 585-1665
NORTH PALMVIEW APOSTOLIC CHURCH 7612 W. 6 Mile Ln. Mission • 735-2569
ROAD TO SALVATION ASSEMBLY OF GOD 239 W. 2nd St. - La Joya 1312 Oblate • 585-3261
OUR LADY QUEEN OF ANGELS One-half mile South Leo Avenue La Joya • 585-5223
SAN CRISTOBAL MAGALLANES & COMPANIONS PARISH
3805 Plantation Grove Blvd., Ste. 5
OUR LADY OF FATIMA CHURCH 6634 El Camino Real • Granjeno 279-4159
SAN MARTIN DE PORRES 5 mi. N. Conway, 1/2 Mile West Alton • 585-8001 & 585-8002
IGLESIA BAUTISTA BETANIA 851 S. Breyfogle Rd. • 585-5688
OUR LADY OF LOURDES CHURCH 2.5 miles S. Conway (FM 1016) Mission • 279-4159
ST. JOHN OF THE FIELDS CATHOLIC CHURCH 1052 Washington Ave. • 585-2325
IGLESIA BAUTISTA CRISTO EL REY 1600 E. Bus. 83 - Mission
OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE CATHOLIC CHURCH 620 Dunlap • 585-2623
IGLESIA BAUTISTA COLONIAL 3713 N. La Homa Rd. • 585-5332
OUR LADY OF THE HOLY ROSARY CHURCH 923 Matamoros St. • 581-2193
ST. PETER & ST. PAUL EPISCOPAL CHURCH 2310 N. Stewart Rd. 585-5005
IGLESIA BAUTISTA DEL VALLE 217 W. Mile 3 Rd. • 424-1602 Palmhurst
PALM VALLEY CHURCH 1720 E. Griffin Pkwy. 585-3203
SHINING LIGHT BAPTIST CHURCH 6 1/8 N. Doffing Rd. (FM 492) 580-4078
FREEDOM LIFE CHURCH 2214 W. Griffin Pkwy. • 519-7000 Mission GRACIA DIVINA MINISTRY 4122 N. Conway • 584-3112 GREAT OAKS COMMUNITY CHURCH 2722 N. Conway • 451-5500 Mission IGLESIA ADVENTISTA DEL SEPTIMO DIA 1725 W. Griffin Parkway 581-9008
IGLESIA DEL PUEBLO 7500 West Expressway 83 581-1900 IGLESIA DEL DIVINO REDENTOR 1020 North Los Ebanos Rd 585-5898
PEÑITAS BAPTIST CHURCH 1/3 Mile S. of Exp.83 on FM 1427 583-6236 PRIMERA BAPTIST CHURCH Corner of 6th & Oblate 585-4711
LA RESPUESTA CHURCH 405 W. 12th Street • 585-0787
PRIMERA IGLESIA DEL VALLE APOSTOLIC ASSEMBLY 210 St. Marie. • 585-8651
MISSION CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 1 mi. E. 495 • 585-6683
PROMISE LAND CHURCH 2300 E. Palm Circle (Corner of 495) Mission, TX 78572 • 624-9307
NEW HOPE AT THE BORDER 905 N. Conway • 585-4122
RIVER OF LIFE CHURCH 901 S. Shary Rd. (Located in the Holiday Inn Express Conference Room) 451-4838
NORTH MISSION CHURCH OF CHRIST 1410 E. 3 Mile Line • 585-0146
Mission • 580-4551
ST. PAUL'S CATHOLIC CHURCH 1119 Francisco • 585-2701
TEMPLO BIBLICO 5 Mile/Conway • 581-4981 or 585-3831 TEMPLO EVANGELICO, M.B. CHURCH La Joya THE DOOR CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP
810 E. Veterans & La Homa Suite F.
Palmview Crossing Plaza 212-1594/424-1984
TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH 3701W. 3 Mile Line • 585-3261 WEST MISSION LUTHERAN FELLOWSHIP Pleasant Valley Ranch 7320 W. Exp. 83 • Mission 583-7667 VALLEY FELLOWSHIP 1708 E. Griffin Parkway Mission • 424-7200
MISSION AUTO ELECTRIC, INC. DBA
ER MAE EPQOU IW PMENT
Commercial Lawn Equipment “Since 1954”
915 West Bus. 83 • Mission, tX 78572 • (956) 581-7433
KING, GUERRA, DAVIS & GARCIA
ATTORNEYS AT LAW DAVID H. GUERRA NEAL KING (retired) DARRELL DAVIS ESMERALDA GARCIA (retired) 301 E. Tom Landry • Mission • 585-1622
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IMPLEMENT COMPANY, INC. MISSION 585-1618
Register early for spring 2015 at South Texas College R eceive the best selection of courses by registering now for the spring 2015 semester at South Texas College. Save some money by avoiding the $60 late payment fee and register by the early registration deadline on Dec. 17. Classes are set to start on Jan. 20. In addition to registering early for spring, future and current students are encouraged to work on their financial aid options. More than 75 percent of students, not including dual enrollment students, take advantage of some form of financial aid. If eligible, South Texas College students can receive Federal Pell Grants, as opposed to Federal Stafford Loans. In Award Year 2013-2014, 90 percent of students on financial aid were eligible for the full amount of Federal Pell Grants, said STC associate dean of student financial services testing and veterans affairs. “Unlike Federal
Stafford Loans, Federal Pell Grants do not have to be repaid.” With 114 degree and certificate program options in a variety of business, technology, liberal art, social science, math, science, nursing, and allied health fields of study, students have a range of options when it comes to pursuing their education. This includes online classes via South Texas College’s virtual campus eSTC. And for graduates who wish to continue their education, South Texas College has an applied bachelor’s degree program and more than 60 articulation agreements with colleges and universities across the nation. Spring 2015 classes start Jan. 20. The early registration deadline is Dec. 17 and the Final Payment Deadline is Jan. 8. For more information, please call South Texas College Admissions at 956872-8323 or visit southtexascollege.edu/register.
Latin American nativities on exhibit
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ROWNSVILLE – The Brownsville Heritage Museum is currently exhibiting Latin American nativity sets from private collections owned by three members of the local Pan American Round Table: Isabel Vezzetti, Marsha Betacourt, and Maria Enrique Yzaguirre. The “nacientos” (nativities) represent the numerous religious cultures of countries of North, Central and South America. The exhibit will remain on display
through mid-January. The Stillman House, adjacent to the museum, is currently decorated for a Victorian Christmas. It was the residence of Charles Stillman – the founder of Brownsville. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults and $4 for seniors over 55. It is located at 1335 E. Washington Street. Call 541-5524 for information.
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December 12, 2014
Holiday schedule for Mission CISD Deputies investigate homicide in rural Mission
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he last day of school for Mission Consolidated Independent School District students before the winter break will be Friday, Dec. 19. This will also be an early release day for students and district employees. On Dec. 19, morning Pre-K students will be released at 10:30 a.m. All other elementary grades will be released at noon. Afternoon pre-K students will not attend school on Dec. 19.
Junior high school and high school students will be released at 1 p.m. Staff will be released accordingly. The district’s central administrative office will close at 1:00 p.m. on December 19. Schools will be closed from Dec. 22, through Friday, Jan. 2, 2015. District employees will return to work on Monday, Jan. 5, 2015. Students will return to class on Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2015.
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he Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a homicide that occurred in rural Mission just after midnight Wednesday. At about 12:20 a.m., deputies responded to the 4800 block of Amber Drive in rural Mission on a report of a man down with a gunshot wound. Deputies arrived and found the man with a gunshot wound. The victim was transported by EMS to a local
hospital for medical treatment. The victim later died at the hospital due to his injuries and was pronounced dead by Hidalgo County Justice of the Peace Luis Garza who ordered an autopsy. Sheriff’s investigators learned that the victim was last seen at a home in the 4600 block of Marshall Drive in rural Mission, where several people forcefully took him. The victim has been identified as 25-year-old Edgar Gamez, and the investigation is ongoing. Anyone has information about the crime is asked to call the Hidalgo County Sher-
iff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division at (956) 383-8114. If a caller wishes to remain anonymous, he or she can call the Hidalgo County
Crime Stoppers hot line at 956-668-TIPS (8477). If the information provided on the tips hotline leads to an arrest, the caller may be eligible for a cash reward.
he City of Mission’s Operation Kops for Kids will kick off its 20th year at the Walgreens on Shary Road and FM 495 in Mission on Friday, Dec. 12, at 10 a.m., with a Toy Drive. Join city of Mission leaders and staff, Mission police officers, Mission firefighters, and Mission Crime Stoppers,
as they gather to collect donated toys. Residents and Walgreens shoppers are being encouraged to drop off new toys for children, ranging in age from newborn to 12 years old. The toys will be given to more than a 1,000 children in the community who, otherwise, might not get a Christmas present.
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Mission toy drive for needy Valley children
legalnotice CONSTABLE’S SALE The State of Texas County of Hidalgo Notice is Hereby Given that by virtue of a certain WRIT OF EXECUTION issued out of the honorable JUSTICE COURT OF JP PCT.2 PL., Of HIDALGO COUNTY, on the 13TH of OCTOBER 2014, for the sum of $4,158.23 with interest thereon at the rate of 10% per annum from the 17TH of FEBRUARY 2009 and cost of suit, under a judgment in favor of PHARIA L.L.C. in a certain cause in said court, No.C-1229-08-21 And styled PHARIA L.L.C. Vs. FELIPE RENDON And placed in my hands for service for service on 17TH of OCTOBER 2014, I, Lazaro Gallardo, Jr., as Constable PCT.3 Hidalgo County, Texas, did on the 17TH of OCTOBER 2014, levy on certain real estate in Hidalgo County, Texas, described as follows, to-wit LOT ELEVEN (11), BLOCK SEVENTEEN (17) OF HIDALGO PARK ADDITION TO HIDALGO COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP PLAT OF RECORD AT VOLUME 14, PAGE 12, OF THE NEW MAP RECORDS OF SAID COUNTY AND SUBJECT TO THE EASEMENT, COVENANTS AND RESTRICTIONS THERE RECORDED. And levied upon as property of FELIPE RENDON and that on the first Tuesday in JANUARY 2015, the same being the 6TH day of said month, at the court house door of Hidalgo County, Texas in the city of Edinburg, Texas, between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. (sale starts at 10:00 a.m.) by virtue of said levy and said writ of execution, I will sell said above described real estate at public venue for cash, to the highest bidder, as the property of said FELIPE RENDON and in compliance with the law, I give this notice by publication, in the English language, once a week for three consecutive weeks immediately proceeding said day of sale, in THE PROGRESS TIMES a newspaper published in Hidalgo County. Witness my hand, this 20TH day of NOVEMBER, 2014
By: ________________________________ Lazaro Gallardo, Jr. Deputy Ruben Salinas, Jr. Constable Pct.3 Hidalgo County, Texas
December 12, 2014
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Palmview High School senior Jorge Villarreal’s computer drawing came out as the victor in a very close race to win the online competition for the second annual La Joya ISD Facebook Holiday Greeting Card Contest. This year’s theme was “A Winter Wonderland at La Joya ISD” and Jorge’s digital illustration of the three district mascots will become the official 2014 La Joya ISD holiday greeting card. “My main drive in competing was to add my design to my portfolio and resume as I plan to pursue a career in graphic design,” Villarreal said. “I could not have accomplished this had it not been for the support of my past and current teachers, my friends, and my family.”
Two Mission High School Students Advance To State Band Auditions Two students from MHS have qualified to advance to the final round of auditions for the Texas Music Educators Association All State Band. The students are: Abraham Trejo (left), on bass trombone; and Jesus Olivares (right), on the bass clarinet. These students are advancing to the TMEA Area tryouts based upon their performance at the recent Pre-Area tryouts.
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PART TIME & FULL time servers, bar tenders and kitchen helpers needed, Riverside Club 214 E. Chimney Road, Mission, call 956581-1033 ask for Jennifer. 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.
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EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
EscalEra WrEckEr Inc. 1515 W. 3 MIlE rd. MIssIon, TExas 78573 (956) 585-8245 • Fax 581-6668 Tdlr vsF lIc. no. 0548371
ADVERTISING SALES REPRESENTATIVE The Progress Times is now hiring advertising sales representatives. Excellent hours - no nights or weekends. Competitive pay: base salary plus commission. Prior sales experience preferred. The right candidate will have excellent lead generation, phone communication, cold calling and organizational skills. Must have excellent command of English and Spanish, including speaking, reading, writing, spelling and grammar. Must have reliable transportation and a valid Texas driver’s license. For information call: 956-585-4893 Or Email your resume to: resume@progresstimes.net
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.
956 ToWIng & rEcovEry llc 1515 W. 3 MIlE rd. MIssIon, TExas 78573 (956) 585-8245 • Fax: 581-6668 Tdlr vsF lIc. no. 0640957
PURSUANT TO THE PROVISION CONTAINED IN RULE 85.704. SUBCHAPTER D, FROM CHAPTER 85, PART 4 OF TITLE 16 IN THE TEXAS ADMINISTRATIVE CODE, WE ARE OFFICIALLY NOTIFYING YOU THAT THE BELOW DESCRIBED MOTOR VEHICLE(S) HELD IN OUR CUSTODY ARE TO BE PICKED UP, REMOVED AND ALL CHARGES PAID WITHIN (30) DAYS. FAILURE OF THE OWNER OR LIENHOLDER TO CLAIM VEHICLE(S) BEFORE THE DATE OF SALE IS A WAIVER OF ALL RIGHT, TITLE, AND INTEREST OF VEHICLE(S). AND ALSO A CONSENT TO THE SALE OF THE VEHICLE IN PUBLIC SALE ACCORDING TO TEXAS LAW. SECOND NOTICE YEAR MAKE 2007 CHEVY 2007 FORD
MODEL TAHOE F-150
VIN# 1GNFC13C07R250512 1FTRW12577FA20340
BALANCE $1,073.00 $937.00
TOTAL CHARGES CANNOT BE COMPUTED UNTIL VEHICLE IS CLAIMED. STORAGE CHARGES WILL ACCRUE DAILY UNTIL VEHICLE IS RELEASED.
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NOTICE TO CREDITORS Notice is hereby given that original Letters Testamentary for the Estate of ROSARIO A. VELA, a/k/a ROSARIO VELA a/k/a MARIA DEL ROSARIO VELA, Deceased, were issued on December 8, 2014, in Cause No. P-36,500, pending in the Probate Court Of Hidalgo County, Texas, to: JULIO A. VELA. All persons having claims against this Estate which is currently being administered are required to present them to the undersigned within the time and in the manner prescribed by law. Julio A. Vela c/o: LOUIS C. BROWN Attorney at Law 1207 Conway Mission, TX 78572 DATED the 8th day of December, 2014.
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS, THAT:
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS, THAT:
The City of Alton, Texas proposes to institute annexation proceedings to enlarge and extend the boundary limits of said city to include the following described territory, to-wit:
The City of Alton, Texas proposes to institute annexation proceedings to enlarge and extend the boundary limits of said city to include the following described territory, to-wit:
Tract 1: Being 80.1 acres, consisting of 18 acres of out of Block 404; all of Block 394 (37.6 acres); 17.5 acres out of Block 384; and 7 acres out of the irrigation canal, adjoining said Blocks; all out of the John H. Shary Subdivision, recorded in Volume 1 page 17 of the Hidalgo County Map Records.
Tract 1: Being 80.1 acres, consisting of 18 acres of out of Block 404; all of Block 394 (37.6 acres); 17.5 acres out of Block 384; and 7 acres out of the irrigation canal, adjoining said Blocks; all out of the John H. Shary Subdivision, recorded in Volume 1 page 17 of the Hidalgo County Map Records.
A public hearing will be held by the City of Alton, Texas on the 23rd day of December, 2014 at 5:30 p.m. in the Legislative Chambers at the Alton City Hall, Alton, Texas, located at 509 S. Alton Blvd, Alton, Texas, for all persons interested in the above proposed annexation. At said time and place all such persons shall have the right to appear and be heard. Of all said matters and things, all persons interested in the things and matters herein mentioned, will take notice.
A public hearing will be held by the City of Alton, Texas on the 22nd day of December, 2014 at 5:30 p.m. in the Legislative Chambers at the Alton City Hall, Alton, Texas, located at 509 S. Alton Blvd, Alton, Texas, for all persons interested in the above proposed annexation. At said time and place all such persons shall have the right to appear and be heard. Of all said matters and things, all persons interested in the things and matters herein mentioned, will take notice.
By order of the City Commission of the City of Alton, Texas this the 18th day of November, 2014.
By order of the City Commission of the City of Alton, Texas this the 18th day of November, 2014.
Salvador Vela, Mayor
Salvador Vela, Mayor
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BIKER CHRISTMAS
children. I get choked up every time. I just get…it’s overwhelming.” The children continued to point and jump in excitement as the bikes roared onto the campus field. The twin Santas shook hands, smiled and waved at the kids who chattered in Spanish among themselves. The Law Dogs Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club members are all full-time, part-time and retired police officers, firefighters and emergency medical personnel. Other clubs that participated include the Regulators, Thor’s Horsemen and independent riders. Each club and independent rider received a certificate of appreciation from Buckner and were fed when they finish the ride. “The bikers, especially the Law Dogs, they meet all year long to plan this event. The only thing that they ask is that we provide food for them because it is about a three-hour ride,” said Mon-
December 12, 2014
www.progresstimes.net | www.sharylandtimes.com ica Salinas, the executive director of Buckner Children Family Services. “It’s just a good time to come together and entertain the kids and give them a little bit of Christmas.” The children invited to the toy run come from the three different Buckner programs. Case managers work with the children and their families throughout the year, visiting the home and becoming familiar with their financial situation. Those that are identified as the most needy can attend the festivities. “The case workers are always looking to the community to see how we can provide some of the basic needs that they may have. Some of them need food, clothing, heaters in the winter, a fan when it’s 100 degrees in the Valley,” Salinas said. “We work with hundreds and hundreds of cases with clients throughout the year, but these are the ones are truly the neediest.” At the end of the event,
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the Santa Clauses handed out toys to the children and wished them a Merry Christmas. Santa Claus Michael Green has been playing the role since 2005, donning the red suit and black boots for kids at various events. His favorite part is seeing the children’s faces when he tells them a simple hello. “We get the joy of being with the kids. You know, I’m a grandfather...and that’s what Christmas is all about anyways – the kids,” Green said. “We just enjoy doing it. I’m always trying to help out the community any way I can.”
FISCAL IMPACT
know how many people are coming across or how much is smuggled, there isn’t much to measure. The cameras will provide hard figures, he said. “Absent that, we’re just playing with numbers,” McCraw said. Through Operation Drawbridge, DPS’ interdiction rate is about 50 percent. That number needs to be 100 percent or near it, he said. “You’re not going to smuggle anything in here, people, drugs, contraband north or south without it being detected,” McCraw said. “The evidence in that is a photograph.” Meanwhile, State Rep. Sergio Muñoz, D-Palmview, questioned decision-making at the state-level without consulting legislators in the affected areas. Muñoz said he, as an elected official on the border, didn’t receive a phone call on state policy changes on the border. He also questioned McCraw on the state’s relationship with local law enforcement agencies, particularly those in Hidalgo County. Muñoz asked McCraw how he’d rank the level of trust between the state and local agencies. “I thought pretty good until I talked to you and Sen. (Juan “Chuy”) Hinojosa,” McCraw responded, adding that he planned to visit Hidalgo County Sheriff Eddie Guerra and Pct. 3 Constable Larry Gallardo. McCraw later added that
Palmview HS athletes qualify for state
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he Special Olympics of Texas is a non-profit sports organization founded for the benefit of persons with intellectual disabilities. Responsible for overseeing 19 areas in 4 regions of The Lone Star State, the SOTX association supports more than 44,500 children and adults achieve success in athletic games yearround. Last week, the Area 1-Rio Grand Valley sector hosted their bowling competition where over 200 stu-
dents from 50 valley schools participated. The Palmview High School Special Olympics team came out on top with 6 of its athletes qualifying to participate in the 2015 Winter Games to be held in Austin on February 5-8th. Viva Selena Lopez, John P. Corona, Ashley Zepeda, Claudia Terrazas, Rogelio Alaniz, and Lissette Contreras will be traveling next semester to compete at the state level in bowling and ramp bowling. “Our students have been training since mid-Septem-
ber for two to three days a week to prepare for the contests,” stated Head Coach Renan Rodriguez. “I feel it is important to recognize the sport so that more people get involved and realize that these athletes work just as hard as any other athlete.” Clearly the hard work of the Palmview HS Special Olympics Team has paid off. La Joya ISD proudly recognizes these competitors as they move forward and continue to make their mark amongst the best teams in the state.
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there aren’t trust issues on the state’s side with local law enforcement, saying, “nobody’s exempt … from corruption, particularly along the border.” Muñoz also pushed McCraw to maintain traffic enforcement in the Valley while the state implements Operation Strong Safety. There were 879 arrests in Hidalgo County attributed to DPS from January to May of this year, and that number dropped to 619 from June to November. Right now, state law enforcement officers are cycled in and out of the Valley, but McCraw said he’s working on figures of how many additional troopers to add to the Valley permanently. McCraw said he was reluctant to give an exact figure before they transition the National Guard troops out and implement the camera surveillance. State Rep. Dennis Bonnen, R-Angleton, said when additional troopers are hired and stationed permanently in the community, they likely would be able to form deeper relationships with local officers. “I’m sure at times to local law enforcement in some areas, this doesn’t look like support when you go down that heavy–it looks like an invasion,” McCraw said. “The interdiction strategy is going to allow us to do something we’re not doing right now.”
HOUR OF CODE
neering and mathematics. U.S. students are falling behind in STEM education compared to other nations. Some of the challenges include closing gender gaps, minority gaps and improving teacher preparation, according to the National Math and Science Initiative. Statistics show that, 44 percent of U.S. high school graduates were ready for college-level math and even fewer ready for college-level science in the year 2013. “I tell the teachers to remind the students that they are the ones telling the computer what to do,” Martinez said. “They have to understand that so they can make a connection and understand like ‘I can do this later on in my job.’ So we’re trying to get them to understand that.” Principal Adan Ramirez admitted that the students picked up the program faster than the adults, an aspect that is common when learning how to use a new tool,
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according to Code the Town partner Dalinda Gonzalez-Alcantar. “Students are like sponges and they are also very curious by nature,” the code curriculum developer said. “Adults tend to have their reservations and not really wanting to completely explore the creative process and really that’s what coding is, where students are very free.” In an effort to continue the Hour of Code initiative, Alton Elementary will be implementing a reward system for coding starting in January. The campus will set criteria for the students to meet and those who do will be awarded with an hour of code on Fridays. “I don’t want it to be a one-time bandwagon type of program,” Principal Adan Ramirez said. “I want to make sure that we instill it and keep abreast of it throughout the semester and see what it brings next year.”