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Your Community Newspaper, Serving the Heart of the Rio Grande Valley VOLUME 90 NUMBER 30
I-69 MAKES HISTORY IN RIO GRANDE VALLEY AS SOUTH TEXAS’ FIRST INTERSTATE HIGHWAY Designation of 67 new I-69 interstate miles signals economic growth, mobility, international trade in booming South Texas region AUSTIN — In an effort to enhance mobility and attract international commerce to the growing Rio Grande Valley, the Texas Department of Transpor tation with approval from the Texas Transportation Commission today officially designated 67 m i l e s of r e g i o n a l roadways as part of the new Interstate 69. The designation means drivers will now see sections of US 77 and US 281 with I-69 highway signs. Being developed on ex ist i ng roadways as a critical artery for moving freight, I-69 will ultimately become a
Commissioner Jeff Austin. “The Rio Grande Valley has experienced tremendous growth over the past three decades and we’re pleased to take this important step toward safely mobilizing a growing population while nurturing the economic prosperity of this hub for international trade.� With more than 1 million people living in the Valley and approximately 1,000 newcomers ar r iving in Texas each day, the I-69 cor ridor also will help accommodate the state’s growing population. “A s t h e b o o m i n g
Weslaco Native Vies for Interim WBC Lightweight Title page 4
Rallies Nationwide Against Border Militarization page 6
Several local, state and federal officials, as well as local residents, gather for a photo in front of the new Local, state and federal officials sign the banner I-69 signage that was unveiled by TXDOT during a ceremony on Monday, July 15, 2013, at the U.S. 83 and commemorating the new Interstate highway 281 interchange in Harlingen. Photo: valleycentral.com designations. Photo: Lori Weaver we are proud to have more 1,600-mile-long highway p o p u l a t i o n o f Te x a s miles of I-69 added to the stretching from Michigan continues to add more map of Texas.� In total, 67 miles of Rio to Texas. vehicles to our roads, we “This marks a milestone must find ways to keep Grande Valley roadways for Texas, especially South motorists moving safely and will now be marked with I-69 Texas, as the signs unveiled efficiently,� said TxDOT interstate highway signs. A today symbolize growth, Executive Director Phil 53-mile stretch of US 77 connectivity and economic Wilson. “A n interstate will now be designated as development for a critical designation car ries the I-69E from the junction region of our great state,� highest design standard of of Business 77 north of said Texas Transportation any class of highway, so Raymondville to just north of the U.S./Mexico border. “What a historical day for the Rio Grande Valley with A 14-mile length of US 281 the unveiling of 111 miles of designated Interstate will be designated as I-69C highway. The Rio Grande Valley is one of this from the junction of FM country’s largest markets, poised to become even 2812 in Edinburg to US 83 more competitive with an interstate. I-69 allows this in Pharr. region to connect to major Texas markets as well
as others across North America.�
– Julian Alvarez
President/CEO Rio Grande Valley Partnership
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More Family Fun at La Feria’s Aquatic Center La Feria Responds to Water Needs page 8
Classified................ pg. 5 Cricket’s Corner...... pg. 5 Feature Story.......... pg. 8
Just in time for Summer, the LA FERIA AQUAT IC C EN T E R has been upgraded with extensive renovations and additions. And according to the Center Director, Jessette Aleman, this will mean more f u n, convenience and safety for swimmers using the pool. The center has organized several popular programs for all ages and added new features this year that have received enthusiastic response according to Aleman. “The La Feria Aquatic Center strives
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for safety in and around the water, therefore, life guards are always on duty during operating hours,� she said, adding, “It should be noted that all lifeguards are trained and certified by the American Red Cross. This assures parents who allow their children to swim and play at the pool that they will be under the watchful eyes of the 14 certified lifeguards on duty this year. To that end, the center h a s i mple me nt e d a n intensive Guard Start program for youths ages
11 to 15. T his class is a jump-start for the younger members of our community. It prepares a foundation of aquatic leadership, fitness and swi m m i ng sk ills a nd positive attitudes. Guard Start is a transition from the Learn 2 Swim Program to the Lifeguard Training Course. Cur rently enrolled students will put their skills to the test during the Annual Jr. Lifeguard Competition on Saturday, August 3, 2013. “We encourage support from all and welcome â–ş CONTINUED ON PAGE 7
14 Certified Life Guards insure patron safety: (left to right) Elayne White, Carlos Lopez, Rebecca Weaver, Kaylin White, Josh Aleman, Joseph Panarees, Aquatic Director Jessette Aleman, Jeremy Rodriguez, Aaron Bazaldua, Josh Garza, Cruz Lopez, Emilie Reyes, Torin Williamson (not pictured Deli Sanchez). Photo: Bill Keltner/LFN
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