WEEK OF March 9, 2022 THROUGH MARCH 15, 2022
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Your Community Newspaper, Serving the Heart of the Rio Grande Valley VOLUME 99 NUMBER 10
Lionettes Move on to State in Powerlifting Emilio Flores La Feria News
Texas Bats To Emerge Soon
Page 3
The Lionettes powerlifting team will be moving on to State Finals after competing in the regional competition held at the Bert Ogden Arena in Edinburg. They placed 4th overall out of 24 teams in the region! Next, they will be traveling to Corpus Christi for the March 18th State Competition, held at the American Bank Center in Corpus Christi. Alyssa Ramirez, one of our Lionettes powerlifters, won the Regional Champion Title last
week. Alyssa went on and broke the regional squat record twice, squatting 550lbs. And also broke the regional record on deadlift pulling 460lbs. Breaking the deadlift record three consecutive times! Finishing with a new regional record at 1,275 pounds. Alyssa Ramirez was awarded, the Outstanding Lifter Award, the Best Squat Award, and the Best Deadlift Award. Congratulations Alyssa, and all the girls for their hard work and dedication, showing great Lions Pride. And good luck to you all during spring break at the big State Competition!
Photos from La Feria ISD’s Facebook page.
On Track Roll Pride
Page 5
Lions powerlifting
Page 5
Alyssa Ramirez received Outstanding Lifter Award, Best Squat Award, Best Deadlift Award. Photos from La Feria ISD’s Facebook page.
The Passing of an Iconic Gorilla Patriarch
Page 8
UTRGV Film Student Wins Two Awards For Documentary Short
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City Calendar............pg. 2 Classified....................pg. 4 Sports..........................pg. 5 Activity Page.............pg. 6 Puzzles........................pg. 7
Photos from La Feria ISD’s Facebook page.
Texas Department Of Housing And Community Affairs Launches Texas Homeowner Assistance Fund The Texas Homeowner Assistance Fund (TXHAF) is now available for eligible Texas homeowners who have fallen behind on a mortgage loan, property tax, property insurance, and/or Homeowner Association (HOA)/Condo payments or experienced financial hardships due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This program, funded under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, and administered by TDHCA, is accepting
applications as of today, March 2, 2022, by visiting www. texashomeownerassistance. com. Texas homeowners may be eligible to receive a maximum assistance of $40,000 under the Mortgage Program, and a maximum assistance of $25,000 under the Property Charge Default Program. In order to receive the TXHAF assistance, Texas homeowners must meet the following criteria:
• Have fallen behind on one or more of mortgage loan, property tax, property insurance, and/ or HOA association fee payments, • Household income must be at or below 100% of the Area Median Income (AMI) or 100% of the median income for the United States, whichever is greater, • Own and occupy a home in Texas as a primary residence, and • Experienced a
qualified financial hardship after January 21, 2020, such as lost income or increased expenses due to the pandemic. When applying, individuals must provide: proof of identification, proof of income, proof of occupancy, and delinquent statements. For more information and additional assistance please call 1-833-651-3874. “I encourage all residents that have experienced financial • Bridges • Digital
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hardships and were unfortunately unable to make the necessary payments on a mortgage loan, property taxes, property insurance, or HOA fee due to the ongoing pandemic to please apply for the available funding. This assistance will help all homeowners avoid payment delinquencies, foreclosures, and most importantly avoid being displaced from your safe haven,” stated Cameron County Judge Eddie Treviño, Jr.
2 • March 9, 2022• LA FERIA NEWS
Valley Baptist Medical Center-Brownsville to add More Locations for Screening Mammograms BROWNSVILLE— While the month of October is traditionally known as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the need for screening mammograms aimed at early detection and successful treatment of breast cancer is a yearlong effort. To that end, Valley Baptist Medical CenterBrownsville will soon offer additional options when it comes to receiving a critical mammogram screenings that could ultimately be lifesaving. While 2D and 3D mammograms have long been offed at Valley BaptistBrownsville’s main campus, the screenings will also soon be available within the next few weeks to local residents at the Valley Baptist Outpatient Imaging CenterBrownsville, said Greg Ruiz, Valley Baptist-Brownsville’s director of imaging
services and respiratory care. “We’re working as hard as we can to provide our community with options for receiving this muchneeded service,” he said. “Early detection of breast cancer is absolutely critical when it comes to the quality of care and service for our community.” According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer accounts for more than one in three cancers diagnosed in the United States, making it the most common cancer among women, other than skin cancer. The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2022, nearly 288,000 cases of breast cancer will be diagnosed in women, with the disease claiming more than 43,000 lives. Early detection through mammogram screenings, increased public awareness of breast cancer, and
improved treatments have helped reduce the mortality rate associated with breast cancer in the United States. Both 2D and 3D mammogram screenings can detect breast cancer when it is smaller and more confined to the breast, allowing the cancer to be treated more successfully, Ruiz said. Traditional 2D mammograms provide radiologists with top and side images of the breast, while 3D mammograms provide multiple images of breast tissue from a variety of angles, which can aid radiologists when screening patients with particularly dense breast tissue and can reduce false positive screenings, Ruiz said. As the community continues to deal with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Valley Baptist-Brownsville continues to offer a number of safeguards to protect patients
from the virus. Because a variety of health conditions can often worsen if they are not addressed in a timely manner, it is important not to delay regular health screenings, including mammograms, Ruiz said. “Women should not be fearful or apprehensive about resuming or obtaining their health screenings,” he said. “We continue to provide our community with the highest quality of healthcare in the safest environment, and we continue to take patient safety extremely seriously. We understand that right now, some patients might not want to come to a traditional hospital environment, so offering another option at the Valley Baptist Outpatient Imaging Center-Brownsville is very important.” For more information on imaging services
offered at Valley Baptist-Brownsville and the Valley Baptist Outpatient Imaging Center-Brownsville, call (956) 698-5400 or (956) 698- 4510, respectively. To learn more information on the signs, symptoms, and latest treatments for breast cancer, visit www.valleybaptist.net or https://www.cancer. org/cancer/breastcancer.html. BREAKOUT BOX • According to the American Cancer Society: • Women aged 40 to 44 years should have the choice to start breast cancer screening once a year with mammography if they wish to do so. The risks of screening as well as the potential benefits should be considered. • Women aged 45 to 49 years should be screened with
mammography annually. • Women aged 50 to 54 years should be screened with mammography annually. • For women aged 55 years and older, screening with mammography is recommended once every two years or once a year. • Women aged 55 years and older should transition to biennial screening or have the opportunity to continue screening annually. • Contact Information: • Valley BaptistBrownsville Imaging Department: (956) 698-5400 • Valley Baptist Outpatient Imaging Center-Brownsville located at 5700 North Expressway Suite 109: (956) 6984510
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115 E.Commercial Ave. • La Feria, Texas 78559 • (956) 797-2261 In accordance with the Order of the Office of the Governor issued March 16, 2020, the City of La Feria will conduct the meeting and provide audio/telephonic availability for the public using live stream in order to advance the public health goal of limiting face-to-face meetings (also called “social distancing”) to slow the spread of the Coronavirus (also known as Covid-19). To view the meeting via internet live streaming, please visit https://www.cityoflaferia.com/boards-andcommissions/city-commission/agendas-2020/ where you will find the agenda for the next meeting. The pdf for the agenda will include a link, meeting ID and passcode for the Zoom meeting. More information is available by calling 346-248-7799. Members of the public may sign up for public comment on an agenda item or for another item of public concern by submitting an email to amorales@cityoflaferia.com containing (1) the name of the individual wishing to comment; and (2) the item number or subject matter the individual wishes to comment on. Please submit requests for public comment no later than two hours before the meeting. Join the meeting at the time and login listed above and the Mayor will call on you when it is your turn to speak. A recording of the meeting will be made and will be available to the public in accordance with the Texas Open Meetings Act. If during the course of the meeting, any discussion of any item on the agenda is permitted to be held in executive or closed session, whether such item is already so identified on this Agenda or not, the City Commission will convene in such executive or closed session in accordance with Texas Government Code Section 551.001-551.146.
6:30 PM
MAR 8, 2022
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SUBSCRIPTION RATES $ $ 27 95 Yr. Valley 34 95 Out of Valley Single Copy Price ..................... $.50 ea. Back Issues available .............. $.50 ea. Also distributed to each LFISD School Student.
PUBLISHERS
MONDAYS _____________
KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS COUNCIL 12135 1st & 3rd Mondays, 7:30pm St. Francis Xavier Parish Hall at the corner of West & Cypress (956) 797-266 LA FERIA SCHOOL BOARD 2nd Monday, 6:30pm Board Room Central Administration Office 505 N. Villarreal St. (956) 797-8300 LA FERIA BAND BOOSTERS 3rd Monday, 7:00pm La Feria HS Band Hall (956) 797-8300 SANTA ROSA SCHOOL BOARD 3rd Monday • 6:30pm Santa Rosa HS Library (956) 636-9800 MAINSTREAM/PLUS DANCE Mondays • 9:30am - noon Park Place Estates Ballroom • Harlingen
TUESDAYS _____________
BLUEGRASS JAM SESSIONS Every Tuesday, 1:30pm Kenwood RV Resort 1201 N. Main • La Feria (956) 797-1875
WEDNESDAYS _____________
Musicians by invite only OPEN TO PUBLIC Park Place Estates Ballroom • Harlingen contact Charlie (308) 379-4589 LINE DANCING Weds • 9:00am - 11:30am • $3 Park Place Estates Ballroom • Harlingen
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THURSDAYS _____________ SANTA ROSA CITY COUNCIL MEETING 3rd Thursday • 7:00pm Santa Rosa City Hall (956) 636-1113
FRIDAYS _____________
LINE DANCING Sat • 1:00pm - 3:00pm • $3 Park Place Estates Ballroom • Harlingen
SATURDAYS _____________ ORDER OF EASTERN STAR HARLINGEN CHAPTER #641 3rd Saturday • 2:00pm Masonic Temple 702 E. Harrison • Harlingen (956) 423-5544
COUNTRY JAM Wednesdays • 2-4pm
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CORRECTION POLICY Although the La Feria News Staff strives for excellence in all stories and advertising, spelling or typographical errors can occur. If you find any confirmed factual or other type of error, please call 956-233-9928 during business hours or leave a message. WEEKLY COLUMNS printed in the La Feria News contain the opinions of the Authors. They may or may not be the opinion of the Newspaper. HOW TO SUBSCRIBE: 1 year subscription delivered by U.S. Postal Service…$27.95 or can be purchased at several convenient locations throughout the cities of La Feria, Santa Rosa, Santa Maria & Blue Town for 50¢. The La Feria News is mailed and delivered Monday, March 7, 2022 and published weekly by La Feria Publishing, LLC. Periodical Postage Rates paid at La Feria, TX., Post Office. Advertising deadline is noon Thursday at the office at 128 W. Oleander Ave., La Feria, TX 78559. (POSTMASTER send address changes to La Feria, P.O. Box 999, La Feria, TX 78559.)
March 9, 2022 • LA FERIA NEWS • 3
Texas Bats To Emerge Soon Learn more about the risks, benefits of bats
Bat watchers gather at the Congress Avenue Bridge in Austin as bats emerge at dusk to feed. (Stock photo) Written by Adam Russell Bats are beginning to become active in some southern parts of the state, and while cold fronts could reduce activity, it is a good time for the public to be aware of the benefits and risks associated with Texas species. Janet Hurley, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service integrated pest management specialist, Dallas, said Texas residents should expect bat activity to increase as temperatures climb. Hurley said bats are typically more prevalent in areas with agricultural fields in proximity, but cities like Houston, Austin, San Antonio, Fort Worth, Waco, Temple and College Station and the surrounding suburbs have higher bat populations. Bats will soon be exiting torpor as temperatures allow them to activate and seek food and water, Hurley said. “Activity will be on the increase over the coming weeks and months. Once evening temperatures are consistently 70 degrees, it will be game on,” she said. “That tells them it is time to be out there feeding on insects.”
Billion-dollar bats Bats consume large amounts of insects, including crop-damaging pests, and are considered a beneficial species, she said. But they can also be a nuisance and pose a public health risk. It is important for people to be mindful of their presence and role in the environment and cautious during encounters. There are 33 bat species in Texas, representing one of the most diverse bat populations in the U.S. — a population that is growing. Bats roost in various habitats, including caves, trees and bridges, but they are increasingly found in buildings. They typically roost near food or water sources, but some bats travel miles each night to eat their favored foods. Texas bats consume some mosquitoes, Hurley said, but their diets consist primarily of moths, including corn earworm and armyworm moths, and beetles. This diet plays a large role in controlling insect pests in agriculture. It is estimated Texas bats eat enough insects to save producers over $1.4 billion annually in pest control costs alone. “They literally are
billion-dollar bats,” she said. “We have resident bats that never leave, but many species migrate into Texas from Mexico, and some migrate from Mexico up to Wisconsin. Many times, their migration will coincide with the migration of the various moths. They can’t consume enough, but they try.” Take precautions, avoid contact Roosting sites in buildings can increase the chance of interactions with humans and the annoyances of noise, odor, piles of droppings and the potential danger of rabies. Only a tiny percentage of bats in colonies carry rabies, but any bat found on the ground is more likely to be sick or injured. Signs of possible rabies infection are flying in the daytime, dirt in the bat’s mouth or teeth, abnormal sounds, cloudy eyes, dehydration, mucous in the nostrils, breathing difficulties and spastic movements or paralysis. “It’s best to avoid handling bats under any circumstance,” she said. “They may seem cute, but a grounded bat during daylight hours, as with any nocturnal animal out during daylight, there
is a greater chance they have rabies or some other zoonotic disease.” Hurley said a bite, scratch or even saliva transmission could be problematic. If there is any chance a person may have been bitten or had direct contact with a bat, the animal should be captured and submitted to the local health department for rabies testing. For more information about rabies, visit the Texas Department of State Health Services Infectious Disease Control website. Bat in the house? Typically, bats that enter a home do so by accident. If they do not find their way out, they can be safely captured by waiting until the bat lands on the wall or ceiling. Carefully place a box or coffee can over the bat and slide a piece of cardboard between so that the bat remains inside
the container. If there is a reason to believe the bat could be sick and tested for rabies, call your local law enforcement or animal control to have it picked up. If no one comes in contact with the bat, it can be turned over to a wildlife rescue organization or released outside away from people and pets, preferably after sundown. “Be calm because the more you get excited, the more they will get excited,” she said. “Put on some good leather gloves, let them land somewhere and then use anything like a shoebox or small trashcan and cardboard or something to scoop them into it. If they just flew in accidentally and seem fine, you can take them outside, but make sure to place them somewhere they can launch from like onto a tree. Bats cannot take off from the ground like birds.” If a bat is found in a room with an unattended child or someone sleeping
or there is a reasonable possibility the person came in contact with the bat, the bat should be captured and submitted to the designated local public health agency for testing. Pets should not be allowed to interact with bats. Bat colonies that take up residence in attics, in wall spaces or under eaves of occupied buildings can be safely evicted. Using pesticides against bats is illegal and using traps can drive bats to other areas of a structure. The best method is exclusion techniques that allow bats to exit but prevent reentry. A free online AgriLife Extension “Bats 101” course describes practices related to integrated pest management, IPM, practices and bats as pests, how to perform bat removal and exclusion techniques, and how to solve bat problems by applying IPM techniques.
The tri-colored bat is among the 33 species found in Texas. They historically ranged in the eastern half of the state but have been reported as far west as Lubbock County. (Texas A&M AgriLife Research)
Mental Healthcare and You – Finding the Right Fit (StatePoint) Searching for a mental health provider? You likely have questions. Recent research from virtual care provider MDLIVE suggests that confusion around finding a mental healthcare provider is common. One in five surveyed said they were concerned about finding a provider match and 70% experience confusion and uncertainty about where to begin. The research also revealed that not everyone knows the difference between the various mental health professionals -psychiatrists, psychologists, counselors, mental health coaches and others. “Many people are ready to get depression, anxiety and stress under control by working with a mental health professional, but get bogged down right from the start. Confusion about selecting a professional that best suits their needs causes a lot of people to give up. That’s something we want to change,” says Dr. Shakira Espada-Campos, who brings more than two decades of direct practice experience to her role as behavioral health medical director at MDLIVE. To help you in your search, MDLIVE is answering some frequently asked questions:
When is it time to see a therapist? Mental healthcare is self-care that most everyone can benefit from. However, if your emotional state is interfering with your daily life, it’s definitely time to take action. Beyond the common signs of mental illness, such as sadness, drug and alcohol misuse, trouble sleeping and mood swings, Dr. Espada-Campos notes that there are some often overlooked signals that could indicate it’s time to seek treatment. These include withdrawing from loved ones, feeling fatigued, having a lack of motivation and frequently “zoning out.” She also notes that life events such as decoupling, job loss or the loss of a loved one can often trigger the need for professional mental health support. What’s the difference between therapists and psychiatrists? Psychiatrists and therapists can treat the same things, however, psychiatrists are medical doctors who can diagnose psychiatric conditions and prescribe medication, while therapists are licensed providers who can evaluate and support people with emotional or behavioral health concerns through talk
therapy.
What should one look for in a provider? Mental healthcare is highly personal and it’s essential that your provider is someone you can open up to, make progress with and not feel judged by. A good place to start is by working with a provider who has experience treating patients like you. Understand that you may not find the right therapist on your first try. Dr. Espada-Campos encourages individuals to both trust their feelings in this regard and to take an active role in their sessions by asking questions like, “What can I do to help my treatment?” and “How can we work together to achieve my goals?” Does insurance cover therapy? In recent years, many health plans and employers have acknowledged the importance of mental healthcare and have expanded the resources available to their members and employees. Check coverage details online or through the plan’s call center. Alternatively, you may wish to seek counseling through an Employee Assistance Program (EAP). EAP counselors can help
with a variety of mental health concerns, however, members are typically restricted to a set number of sessions. If you’re suffering from a recurring mental health issue, check what options are available through your health plan.
Can therapists be seen remotely? Virtual care, an increasingly popular option, can provide private, convenient, quality care quickly, and is often offered by health plans. For example, MDLIVE’s platform makes it easy to search for a provider that meets your needs and to schedule an appointment with one of their psychiatrists or licensed therapists. MDLIVE is a covered benefit for more than 60 million Americans through health insurers such as Cigna, Aetna, certain Blue Cross Blue Shield plans, and many regional and local plans. To learn more or to register, visit www.mdlive.com. Finding a mental healthcare provider can feel overwhelming. However, identifying what you want out of care and understanding the different treatments available can help demystify the process.
First Baptist Church, La Feria As a boy, I remember fearing Russia. I did not know who Russia was. I only knew that a siren would sound at school and we all did the “duck and cover.” It was an air raid drill against nuclear bombs. I am no longer a boy, the sirens are silent, and no one is kneeling in a hall. But Russia, or rather the despot that rules there, is once again trying to be scary. Once again, talking about a bomb. Our faith does not remove the threat but it helps to shape and moderate our fears. Once the Pharisees told Jesus that he should run because Herod is after him, He replied, “Go tell that fox, ‘I will keep on driving out demons and healing people today and tomorrow, and on the third day I will reach my goal.’ Herod was a threat. But Jesus refused to allow the threat or the fear to change his agenda. Russia and its tyrant are threatening maybe even scary. But that old fox is not God and will not have the last word. -Mark S. Ross DMin.
4 • March 9, 2022 • LA FERIA NEWS
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SHRIVER, Deceased, were issued to Linda D. Morrison, on February 8, 2022, in Cause No. 2021-CPC-192 now pending in the County Court at Law Number Four of Cameron County, Texas. All Claims should be addressed to the Independent Executrix, c/o Hamilton & Lucio, P.C., 805 Old Port Isabel Road, Brownsville, Texas 78521-3557. All persons having claims against such Estate, which is currently being administered, are required to present them within the time and in the manner prescribed by law. /s/
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NOTICE TO HEIRS Notice is hereby given that ROBERTO J. CASARES, heir of Cruz Delgado and Pedro Delgado asserts ownership of property locally known as 112 W. 5th Street, La Feria, Cameron County, Texas 78559, also known as 112 Javier Vega Jr. Street, La Feria, Cameron County, Texas 78559, with the legal description: Lots No. Sixty-three (63), Sixty-four (64), Sixty-five (65) & Sixty-six (66), Block Two (2) of DUNN ACRES, being a subdivision of Block Forty-nine (49) of the Minnesota-Texas Land and Irrigation Company’s subdivision of the La Feria Grant in Cameron County, Texas, according to a map of said Dunn Acres filed and recorded in Volume 11, page 62, Map records of Cameron County, Texas. An affidavit of adverse possession has been filed in the Cameron County deed records as Instrument No. 2022-7909 An heir claiming ownership of the above-described property must challenge this affidavit by February 25, 2027.
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PUBLIC NOTICE
Brief Explanatory Statements of Proposed Constitutional Amendments Special Election, May 7, 2022 Proposition Number 1 (SJR 2) SJR 2 proposes a constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to provide for the reduction of the amount of a limitation on the total amount of property taxes that may be imposed for general elementary and secondary public school purposes on the residence homestead of a person who is elderly or disabled in order to reflect any statutory reduction in the maximum compressed rate of the maintenance and operations taxes imposed for those purposes on the person’s homestead from the preceding tax year. The proposed amendment will appear on the ballot as follows: “The constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to provide for the reduction of the amount of a limitation on the total amount of ad valorem taxes that may be imposed for general elementary and secondary public school purposes on the residence homestead of a person who is elderly or disabled to reflect any statutory reduction from the preceding tax year in the maximum compressed rate of the maintenance and operations taxes imposed for those purposes on the homestead.” Proposition Number 2 (SJR 2) SJR 2 proposes a constitutional amendment increasing the amount of the residence homestead exemption from property taxes for public school purposes from $25,000 to $40,000.
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The proposed amendment will appear on the ballot as follows: “The constitutional amendment increasing the amount of the residence homestead exemption from ad valorem taxation for public school purposes from $25,000 to $40,000.”
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Published by The Office of the Texas Secretary of State, www.sos.texas.gov, 1/800-252-VOTE (8683).
March 9, 2022 • LA FERIA NEWS • 5
On Track Roll Pride By Ruben Rodriguez La Feria News
The La Feria Lionettes are nearing the midway point of the 2022 District Calendar with a great 5-1 District record in 32-4A. With big wins over district rivals, The Lionettes look to move up from the number three seed. After kicking off district with a big win over Frontier 9-0, La Feria continued their dominant run over big
teams such as Port Isabel, Brownsville Jubilee and Harmony School of Innovation. Throughout the District schedule, The Lionettes scored 24 straight unanswered goals before suffering their first District loss to IDEA Riverview 4-0. Now as we are midway through round 2 of District, and after a big win over Port Isabel 4-0, The Lionettes will take on the HSI Wildcats on March 4th. March 8th,
the Lionettes will take on the Riverview to try and bounce back. La Feria will wrap up the regular season March 11 against Rio Hondo. With a tough Lionettes squad, La Feria looks to continue their district dominance and capture the number one seed in 32-4A. More teams to lookout for are Rio Hondo and Riverview as the playoff race begins.
Lions powerlifting competition in Port Isabel The Lion Powerlifting team competed at the Port Isabel Invitational this Saturday. The following lifters placed in their respective weight classes, and finished with a combined 2nd place team trophy. Roll Pride! Ricardo Barba- 3rd SHW div. Seth Morales-4th 308 div. Rudy Sanchez- 2nd 308 div. Misael Perez - 4th 198
div David Garza- 3rd 198 div Travis Menchaca- 2nd 181 div. Evan Sanchez- 1st 181 div Leroy Benavidez- 8th
165 div Christian Sosa- 5th 165 div Nicholas Morales- 3rd 148 div. Marc Leos- 6th 114 div.
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HHSC Recognizes Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month with Virtual Conference The Next Chapter Poem Walk the Way To walk each day the narrow path, Avoid the traps the Devil hath. As time does go, The times will tell The broader roads that lead to Hell, So guide your feet where’er you go, May righteousness be what you sow. Poem by James Arnold
AUSTIN – During National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month in March, the Texas Health and Human Services Office of Disability Prevention for Children is hosting a free statewide virtual conference featuring a series of weekly webinars focused on preventing intellectual and developmental disabilities in children. An estimated 485,000 children are affected by IDD in Texas. “Our goal is promoting respect, fostering understanding and highlighting the importance of prevention and early intervention initiatives in the lives of Texas children and families,” said Keisha Rowe, HHSC associate commissioner of Rehabilitative and
Independence Services. “We can change lives when we give Texans tools to support maternal health, prevent childhood injuries, and identify disabilities early.” The second annual HHS Office of Disability Prevention for Children Statewide Virtual Conference, “The Power of Prevention: Promoting Healthy Development in Children,” aims to bring together a diverse group of stakeholders, including communitybased organizations, government, health care professionals, educators, families, caregivers and others to discuss and learn about strategies for implementing positive change in the lives of children and families across Texas. Several state and national
prevention professionals will share information about current trends, initiatives and practical information for attendees. The webinars are free and open to the public, and takes place on the first four Tuesdays in March from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Registration is required. Keynote topics include providing equitable learning opportunities for all learners, the role of Medicaid in improving the lives of children and youth with disabilities, and addressing the impacts of COVID-19. Other topics include water safety education, Texas WIC, childhood injury prevention, Early Childhood Intervention, and Pediatric AcuteOnset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome. The full conference
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LAST WEEK’S SUDOKU ANSWERS
LAST WEEK’S CROSSWORDS ANSWERS
THEME: MARCH MADNESS ACROSS 1. In ill humor 5. Like a ship? 8. Repeating word on South Pacific map 12. Man-eating fairy tail giant 13. Newspaper piece
14. Pertaining to the ear 15. Family group 16. Not the life of the party 17. Andean animal 18. *Like Sunday, the day of announcements 20. Bodily disorders 21. 19th century Robber baron Jay ____ 22. Architect’s software, acr.
23. Articulates 26. Soak up 29. Cuban dance step 30. Auditory canal, e.g. 33. Needlefish, pl. 35. “Star Wars” creator 37. Swindle 38. March edition, e.g. 39. Rest or settle 40. Johnny Cash’s “Get ____”
agenda and registration for all four virtual sessions is here. Continuing education credits for multiple disciplines can be earned for attending this event. About the HHS Office of Disability Prevention for Children The Office of Disability Prevention for Children works to prevent developmental disabilities in infants and children from conception to age 12 through provider and public education, partnerships with other state agencies and stakeholders and evaluating state efforts to prevent developmental disabilities. For more information, visit PreventChildDisability. org. 42. *It never ends this way 43. Another word for acetylene 45. High or hilly land 47. Grazing spot 48. Copying machine 50. ____ code 52. *Those remaining in last weekend (Two words) 56. Gives off 57. Afghanistan’s western neighbor 58. Beginner 59. Send in payment 60. Halfway around links 61. Besides 62. Biz bigwig 63. *D-___ schools only 64. Swedish shag rugs
DOWN 1. ____ Brown and “What’s Up, ____?” 2. Gawk at 3. River in Orenburg, Russia 4. Weasel out 5. Go bad 6. Massacre of the Innocents king 7. “I Dream of Jeannie” star 8. *Last year’s runner-up from Washington 9. Like word of mouth 10. Those born under Aries 11. Chicken ____ ____ king 13. Between 90 and 180 degrees 14. Spy’s cover 19. Crocus bulbs, e.g. 22. *Network 23. *School with most titles 24. Car rack manufacturer 25. Like an implied agreement 26. Your mom’s sister 27. Haile Selassie’s disciple 28. Boston hockey player 31. Heart pain 32. Ken or Barbie, e.g. 34. *Placement 36. *First A in NCAA 38. Motivate 40. Biology class acronym 41. Benevolent 44. Leavening agent 46. Another word for golf club 48. Rice wine 49. Lacking sense 50. NYSE MKT, formerly 51. Frost design on a window 52. Porto____, Italy 53. Like acne-prone skin 54. Bear constellation 55. Fish eggs, pl. 56. Before, archaic
8 • March 9, 2022 • LA FERIA NEWS
The Passing of an Iconic Gorilla Patriarch
Photo via Gladys Porter Zoo’s Facebook BROWNSVILLE, Texas was humanely euthanized due to declining health. (February 24, 2022)— He was estimated to be Gladys Porter Zoo staff are approximately 60 years mourning the passing of old, well past the average Lamydoc (pronounced luhlife expectancy for Western MY-dok), the patriarch of the Zoo’s multi-generational lowland gorillas. In the wild, the life Western lowland gorilla expectancy for lowland troop. On the afternoon of gorillas is only 30 to 40 February 22nd, Lamydoc
years. In human care, they can live beyond 50 years . . . and, in Lamydoc’s case, much longer. “Heart disease, which is common in older gorillas, was detected in Lamydoc about ten years ago,” said Dr. Tom deMaar, the Zoo’s Senior Veterinarian. “We
supported his condition medically, just as in human medicine. Additionally, over the past two years, he has been demonstrating symptoms of progressive dementia. Although there was never any evidence that he was experiencing pain, it was obvious that his quality of life was deteriorating with no possibility of improvement.” Lamydoc arrived at the Gladys Porter Zoo in July 1970 at the estimated age of eight. He was accompanied by Katanga, a young female who became his lifetime mate and companion until her euthanasia in 2015 due to cancer. Between 1972 and 1991, Lamydoc sired 11 healthy baby gorillas. Two of them, Martha and Penney, still remain part of the Zoo’s gorilla troop, and are currently caring for youngsters of their own. Others joined gorilla troops elsewhere, including Mary, who lives at Busch Gardens, Tampa, and Casey II, at the Louisville Zoo.
“Lamydoc was the Gladys Porter Zoo’s original silverback and the inspiration for the Zoo’s logo,” said Dr. Pat Burchfield, the Zoo’s Executive Director. “To those of us who were here the day he arrived, he was a solid reflection of the consummate dominant male gorilla. He was independent, confident and full of bravado – the most magnificent male Western lowland gorilla we have ever seen.” In 2012, Lamydoc and Katanga were photographed by world-renowned wildlife photographer, Joel Sartore, leader of National Geographic’s Photo Ark. In order to raise awareness of species in need of conservation, Photo Ark images, including those taken at Gladys Porter Zoo, have been viewed by millions on the internet and at museums and zoos around the world. Lamydoc’s living legacy is carried on through his
offspring and the future generations of Western lowland gorillas descending from his bloodline. It will also live on in the many lives he has touched throughout his long life. Western lowland gorillas are listed as Critically Endangered by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species. In the wild, they are threatened by poaching, disease, and most of all, habitat loss and destruction. The Gladys Porter Zoo is a member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), which sets a high standard for animal care at zoological institutions across the nation. The Zoo also participates in the Gorilla Species Survival Plan (SSP), which seeks to create a sustainable, genetically diverse population of gorillas in human care.
UTRGV Film Student Wins Two Awards For Documentary Short Film based on spouse’s experience as ICE agent By Santana Peralez
Film poster for “Political Agenda,” a short film by UTRGV student Brenda Patricia Garza.
a former ICE agent unveils the truth that agents go through as they separate children from their families after they cross the U.S. / Mexico border, and the toll it takes on their personal lives,” Garza said. “‘Political Agenda’ is literally based on my husband’s experience, and he’s still working through it,” Garza said. “He suffers from PTSD because of this experience and the documentary has a lot to do with how he felt as an ICE agent.” The documentary short, Garza’s directorial debut, was her first submission to both film competitions. The UTRGV TV and Film Production postbaccalaureate student said just being accepted into the competitions was a milestone, and because the film hit so close to home, she is particularly proud of the awards. “I mean, I was crying with happiness. I was crying with awe,” she said. “As a student, you often don’t feel that what you put out is good enough. I am over the moon knowing that my film and my husband’s story were recognized.”
(StatePoint) No matter the length of a vacation, students often have some catching up to do upon their return to school. However, it doesn’t have to be this way. Check out these five spring break ideas that will keep young minds active and engaged, for a smooth transition back to the classroom. 1. Host a read-a-thon: Get inspired by the reading challenges hosted by schools and libraries during the long summer
a local charity. 2. Pick up a new instrument: Spring break can be a great time to immerse oneself in a new instrument. To build a solid musical foundation fast, consider a keyboard designed with beginners in mind. For example, the compact and portable, 61-key Casiotone CT-S200 allows students to make music from anywhere during their break, and has an array of useful features: a metronome to help with
RIO GRANDE VALLEY, TEXAS – FEB. 25, 2022 – UTRGV student Brenda Patricia Garza has garnered two awards for a documentary short film based on her husband’s experiences as an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent. The recognitions are from international film competitions – the Best
Shorts Competition and the IMPACT DOCS Awards. “Political Agenda,” the documentary short directed by Garza, an Edinburg native, spotlights the life of her husband, former ICE agent Robert Briseño, and unveils the reality behind what ICE agents go through daily and how those events can affect the agents and their families. “After years of working for the U.S. Government,
Garza credits her film professor, Dr. Ferenc Moldovanyi, for guiding her to this success. It’s amazing when you have professors like Dr. Moldovanyi who believe in the work you’re doing. It gives you the confidence you need,” Garza said. “As a student, you often feel unsure of your own work. It isn’t until someone else confirms it for you and tells you, ‘This is really good,’ that you believe it, that this is actually really good.” Moldovanyi, assistant professor in the UTRGV Theatre, TV and Film department, said Garza is talented. “I first met Brenda in the last spring semester in my Intro to Film and Video Production class, and with her came fun, humor and plenty of energy,” Moldovanyi said. “She is a strong, positive person with a lot of creativity. She is a visually sensitive student with excellent storytelling skills and the potential to have a promising film career.” Garza is no stranger to the silver screen. She made her feature acting debut in 2020 as Luisa in the Netflix film, You Are My Home,
UTRGV student Brenda Patricia Garza recently won two film awards for her short film “Political Agenda.” (Courtesy Photo) starring actor and activist Alyssa Milano. When time allows, Garza follows her passions, which include voiceover work, TV hosting, freelance writing, directing and acting. She still attends classes at UTRGV and currently is cast in a film that will premiere on Netflix later this year, among other acting projects. Her own short film, she said, has had a profound personal impact. “My husband is finally getting help,” Garza said. “He’s now visiting a counselor. So that, to me,
is by far the best thing that could have come from this, regardless of awards, regardless of what anybody has thought. It was just about getting him the help that he needed to address the issues he had from doing what he was doing.” Garza said many men and women who serve their countries have potential distress or PTSD from this kind of career. “I, in all honesty, think that if this documentary does get into the right hands, it would be an eyeopening experience,” she said.
school to show kids that math is not just for the classroom. From puzzles to patterns to logic challenges, recreational mathematics can reintroduce an often dry subject to students in a way that is fun. Equip your child with a calculator, which can be used to play a variety of games. The basic, scientific and graphing calculators from Casio are easy to use and can be part of the fun. 5. Get creative: Whether it’s writing poems, painting
a portrait or putting on a play, making art can boost self-esteem while offering kids an outlet for self-expression. It’s also a fun way to keep the mind active during the break. Not only is a week off from school the perfect time to explore interests, take up new hobbies and to be creative, engaging in these activities can help make the transition back to school after spring break easier.
Tips to Keep Young Minds Active Over Spring Break break and host a mini event this spring. Invite your child and their friends to participate. You might even want to add a philanthropic element -- have participants get sponsored by friends and family to earn money based on the amount of reading they do. (Because of the short duration of the event, you may choose to have pledges be based on the number of pages or chapters a student reads, instead of entire books.) Donate the money raised to
lessons, app connectivity to make learning fun, and built-in speakers for cranking up the tunes. 3. Get outdoors: What do physical activity and time spent outdoors have in common? They’re both beneficial for cognition and brain health. Take advantage of the warm spring weather to hit up a local park, trail or nature center and get moving as a family. 4. Make math a game: Use the time away from