INSIDE

See EVENT CENTER 9A

See MEMORIAL DAY 11A

Mission seeks bids for proposed event center

By Lea Victoria Juarez

With 54.34 percent of the votes, the unof-ficial results show

that Marcos Ochoa won the primary runoff election, de-feating his opponent Arnaldo Corpus for Pct. 3 justice of the peace, Place 2.

But Corpus is not ready to concede to his opponent, he said. Corpus, a vested judge, said he and his campaign team are waiting for the of-ficial results and other data from the runoff election. He suspects foul play because the unofficial results don’t match the total he thought he had.

“We’re going to be look-ing at some of the totals and see where we feel that there might be some discrepan-cies,” Corpus said the day after the election. “Not that we’re sore losers, we under-stand that when you lose, you lose. We’re just dumbfound-ed that it was by that kind of a margin. We felt that we had done a real good job.”

When the early vote counts came in just after 7

p.m., Ochoa was in the lead with 55.49 percent and cel-ebrating at his victory party in Peñitas. As the minutes ticked by and precincts re-ported in, Ochoa and his supporters continued to re-fresh their mobile devices for updates until the unoffi-cial results were finalized at 10:04 p.m.

A total of 6,553 ballots were cast and the results read that Ochoa beat Corpus by 569 votes.

“I know that his (Corpus) strong base was in Mission and because he’s from there. I had to rely on the votes from the west,” Ochoa said. “I thank all the voters from the Mission area, Alton, Pal-mhurst and Sharyland. They pulled through for me. I’m extremely grateful to those people and, of course, the west. My city of Peñitas came out very strong for me.”

Ochoa said his confidence never wavered throughout the process; he never doubt-ed that he would win.

“I’m there to provide the service to the community,”

he said. “My doors are open to anybody and everybody and I’m ready to serve and we’re going to do a good job. Each and every person that comes through those doors will be treated with respect and with honesty and digni-ty.”

Both candidates said it was a long campaign. Cor-pus described Ochoa and his team as a political machine that he was against from the very beginning when Ochoa banded with a seven-person slate in the primary.

“They put a lot of work into it. It’s not easy for them either, don’t get me wrong,” Corpus said of Ochoa and his campaign team. “They have it down to a science. You have to give them credit, but is it for the right reasons? Is it to serve the public or is it to serve somebody else?”

“I have not called (Ochoa) because we’re waiting to see what we’re going to do next,” Corpus said Wednesday eve-ning. “Once we see there is nothing else to do, then I will certainly will want to con-gratulate him.”

Ochoa takes runoff, Corpus unyielding

By Lea Victoria Juarez

For 12 years Ofelia Pe-rez has worked contin-ue a tradition that her

father Leo Peña started to honor those who have served in the armed forces.

The ACE Club of Mission will have their annual Me-morial Day service May 30 at 6 p.m. at Leo Peña Placita Park.

Sen. Juan (Chuy) Hinojo-sa will be the guest speaker for this year’s event. The for-mer active duty U.S. Marine served from 1966 to 1968 before returning home to further his education at Pan American University and Georgetown University.

Hinojosa has served as guest speaker in the past for the Memorial Day event, along with Our Lady of Gua-dalupe Principal Lupe Gon-zalez and Lt. Gen. Ricardo Sanchez.

Peña, who was not a vet-eran, began organizing the event because he had two brothers that were in the mil-itary.

“He admired them and wanted to do something

about it and he did it,” Pe-rez said of her father. “He worked hard, and with the support of the city he got it going.”

Perez said her favorite aspect of the event is the fact that it doesn’t have a set agenda. At any given point, an attendee can speak about their experiences or how Me-morial Day affects them.

“It’s not formal. It’s about getting together and helping people heal and remember our fallen soldiers,” Perez said. “Just seeing that fam-ilies are still mourning but they’re feeling a sense of peace, and knowing that their children or husbands will never be forgotten.”

The event organizer said that the ACE Club is trying to get a fighter jet memori-al erected at the park, along with adding more names to the wall of honor.

A reception at the Mission Historical Museum will fol-low the park ceremony.

Catholic War Veterans Post 1056

The CWV will hold ser-vices on Memorial day at various cemeteries. The

schedule is Laurel Cemetery at 8 a.m., mass at CWV Post 1065 at 9 a.m., San Jose/Catholic Cemetery (Mission) at 10:30 a.m., Peñitas Ceme-tery at 10:40 a.m., San Jose Cemetery (Abram) at 11 a.m. and Leo Peña Placita Park at 6 p.m.

There will be a 21-gun sa-lute at each cemetery and at Leo Peña Placita Park.

Father Roy Snipes, the post chaplain, will lead the service at Post 1065. Post Commander Luis A. Lopez will serve as guest speaker.

The public is asked to ar-rive 30 minutes prior to the mass. RGV State Veterans Cem-

eteryFor the last 10 years, the

RGV State Veterans Ceme-tery has hosted a service to memorialize deceased vet-erans from all branches. The service begins at 8:30 a.m.

The cemetery is located at 2520 South Inspiration Road in Mission. American Legion Post 93

The American Legion Post 93 will hold programs

Memorial Day services scheduled

By Jim Brunson

After over two and one-half years of planning, the City of

Mission is now moving for-ward with plans to construct a new event center to replace the old Mission Community Center. Monday, May 23, the Mission City Council au-thorized city staff to solicit bids for construction of the new facility and the associat-ed utility infrastructure.

The proposed 10-acre site for the event center is locat-ed just east of Shary Road, north of Victoria Avenue, be-hind the H-E-B store.

On May 3, the city coun-cil approved a resolution to authorize up to $25 mil-lion in bonds (certificates

of obligation) to pay for the event center and related costs, including purchasing 10 acres of land and all oth-er improvements that will be needed, such as drainage improvements, roadways, parking lots and landscap-ing. Construction of the ac-tual building is estimated to be about $15 million.

Mission City Manager Martin Garza Jr. said, “We are not increasing taxes.” He further explained that the city has been very cost conscious and had the EDC conduct a feasibility study to see what kind of facility the communi-ty needs and can sustain. As a result of the study, the city council decided to nix a pro-posed auditorium that was originally planned as part of

the project. “We’ve reduced it (the

size of the facility) to what we believe the city needs.… We completely removed the auditorium. There were surveys done; we got with schools districts and differ-ent organizations to deter-mine what type of use was needed for an event center. The auditorium was removed right after that because now most schools have auditori-ums. They won’t be leasing from the city because they have their own. (Plus) the auditorium we were consid-ering was not enough seating for what they would need,” Garza said.

Garza said the city is also Proposed Mission Event CenterArchitectural rendering by Ramiro Zapata of ZDA Architecture of San Antonio

Left to right: Board member Esperanza “Epie” Ochoa, Secondary Teacher of the Year Lisa Sullivan from La Joya High School, Elementary Teacher of the year Melissa Becerra from

Patricio Perez Elementary, Superintendent Alda T. Benavides. Courtesy photo

The honor guard for the Catholic War Veterans Post 1065 prepare for the 21-gun salute. Photo by Lea Victoria Juarez

Campus Chronicle Kmart to close doorsLudovico (Toro) MartinezMission CISD gradu-

ates three classes, SISD graduates two, and the seniors have accumu-lated countless accom-plishments since the beginning of their final year.

The chain store that has been in Mission for more than 30 years is shutting down business this summer.

The Mission Boys & Girls Club director was named the South Texas Region Boys & Club Administrator of the Year.

See story page 8ASee story SECTIONS B and C

Friday, May 27, 2016 www.ptrgv.com | 50 Cents

INDEX Entertainment | pg. 3Lifestyle | pg. 2 Opinion | pg. 4 Sports | pg. 6 Obituaries | pg. 11 Classifieds | pg. 12

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May 27, 2016 page 2A

“WHERE CHAMPIONSARE MADE”

2016SUMMER PROGRAM

2016SUMMER PROGRAMExperience some summer fun in our Arts & Crafts Room, MovieRoom, Game Room, Rec Room and our Fitness Hour: 2 Meals provided (Breakfast & Lunch)

Monday thru Thursday from 8am - 4pm. Weekly presenters like Palmview PD, Palmview Fire Dept. etc.

Juan Arevalo - Director

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406 W. Veterans Blvd. Palmview, TX

Registrations are now through May 31 • 2pm - 7pmFor more information on all of our programs

contact us at (956) 432-0310 or (956) 432-0311.

May 27-28 – Juan Diego Academy Catholic Regional High School in Mission is holding their 2016 baccalau-reate mass in the gym on Friday at 9:30 a.m. and com-mencement exercises at 2 p.m. in the school’s gymnasi-um on Saturday. For more information, contact the JDA school office at 956-583-2752.

May 28 – The RGV Family Summer Adventure Chal-lenge (FSAC) kicks off at the Edinburg World Birding Center with a Family Picnic Day on Saturday from 12 to 4 p.m. Bring a lunch and have a picnic while participat-ing in sack races, making giant bubbles, nature walks and more. Families can begin to complete some of the chal-lenges in their journal. FSAC is for families with children ages 18 and under. The deadline to complete challenges and turn in journals is Saturday, Aug. 27. Pick up a copy of the journal at EWBC or print a copy by visiting www.edinburgwbc.org. Only one prize pack will be awarded per winning family. The EWBC is located at 714 S. Raul Longoria Rd. For more information, call 956-381-9922.

May 28 – The next Saturday Safari, “Creatures of the Night,” takes paly at 10 a.m. at Gladys Porter Zoo, 500 Ringgold, Brownsville. Learn about the animals that come out after the sun sets to hunt in the dark. Classes are $15 per child or adult. Children must be age 4 or older. Pre-registration is required. Call 548-9453 to register or for more information or email educ@gpz.org.

JuneJune 2 – The City of Alton’s Summer Youth Camp

2016, “Safari Adventure,” will take a journey across the wild kingdom to learn about wild animals and the eco-sys-tem. An introductory parent night to meet the camp staff and camp director is scheduled from 6:15 to 7 p.m. in the Alton Recreation Center gym. The camp runs June 6 to July 29. Campers will gather from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. throughout the eight-week program and must be age 5 to 12 to participate. Breakfast and lunch will be provided by the MCISD Nutrition Program.

June 6 – The first round of classes begins for the Inter-national Museum of Art & Science Imagination Operation summer camps. Each week this summer, activities will focus on different topics that incorporate science, tech-nology, engineering, art and math skills. The classes are for children ages 4 to 14 and run from through Aug. 19. For ages 4 to 6, half-day camps are 9 a.m. to 12 noon or 1 to 4 p.m. A full-day option is also available. Ask about the appropriate at the time of registration. Operation Imagination includes all scheduled activities, instruction, supplies, a camp T-shirt and time to explore the museum. Call 682-0123 to register, or stop by IMAS at 1900 Nola-na, McAllen.

June 9-11 – The Rio Grande Valley Diabetes Associa-tion (RGVDA) 9th Annual Camp Energy is provided free to children with both Type I and II diabetes ages of 6 to 16. The children will participate in all the activities sum-mer campers expect: arts and crafts, canoeing, archery, hiking, dancing (hip hop and folklorico) and swimming. The fun is combined with educational information to em-power them in the battle against diabetes. For more in-formation or to register a child, call the RGVDA office at 956-782-1900.

June 11 – Toddlers can learn more about nature and turtles at the next monthly Edinburg World Birding Cen-ter Toddler Play Date. For ages 1 to 4, it runs from 9 to 10:30 a.m. each month and may include interactive pup-pet shows, storytelling, crafts, free time and guided nature walks. Cost is $2 and free for one guardian. Space is lim-ited; registration is required. To register, call 383-9922. The EWBIC is located at 714 S. Raul Longoria Rd.

(For daily events and upcoming weeks, see the full calendar at ptrgv.com.)

EVENTSCALENDAR

PARKSCALENDAR

REUNIONS&MEETINGS

LJISD students place in Spanish Spelling Bee

LA JOYA – Five stu-dents from the La Joya Independent School

District placed at the Rio Grande Valley “Torneo de Ortografίa,” a competition where students from across the Rio Grande Valley demonstrate their skills in the Spanish language. More than 600 students from 10 school districts across the Valley competed.

Placing in the 2nd and 3rd Grade Division were Axel Ruiz from E.B. Reyna Elementary, first place; Mau-ricio Mendez, E. B. Reyna Elementary, third place; and Marisol Sauceda, Dr. Pal-mira Mendiola Elementary School, fourth place. In the 4th and 5th Grade Division,

second place winner was Ever Salazar, and Naelson Salazar with third place, both from Seguin Elementa-ry School.

The tournament was first initiated a decade ago by Dr. Jose Agustin Ruiz-Escalante (UTPA professor) and Ro-salva Silva (PSJA Dual Lan-guage director) and contin-ues under the leadership of Dr. Zulmaris Diaz (UTRGV professor).

The purpose is to promote the use of the Spanish while reinforcing the connection to the Hispanic culture. Students must demonstrate broad knowledge of the spelling of the Spanish lan-guage to make it to the top.

Kids and Nature camp line-up announced

EDINBURG – The Ed-inburg World Birding Center is offering na-

ture day camps for children ages 1 to 12 to delve into the wonders of nature and learn about animals, plants, and the outdoor world through hands-on activities, explo-rations, arts and crafts and more.

Children ages 4 to 6 can join the Polliwogs Nature Camp. Each day features a different theme about nature through a fusion of outdoor games, crafts, and puppets. The camp runs June 21 to June 24 from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. The fee $24 for EWBC members and $30 for non-members.

Tots Nature Camp is de-signed for toddlers ages 1 to 3 and their parents to explore nature in a secure and safe environment. The camp runs from July 12 to July 14 from 9 to 11 a.m. each day. Camp fee is $10 for EWBC mem-bers and $14 for non-mem-bers.

Aquanauts Nature Camp

is for children ages 9 to 12 who love water and all things aquatic. Campers will participate in water games, walks, wetland explora-tions and a trip to South Pa-dre Island. This camp runs from June 28 to July 1 from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. each day. Camp fee is $70 for EWBC members and $78 for non-members.

Finally, the Eco-Explor-ers Nature Camp is designed for children ages 6 to 9. Each day will include games, in-vestigative activities, crafts and time to explore the out-doors. It runs July 9 to July 22 from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. each day. The fee is $36 for EWBC members and $44 for non-members.

The registration dead-line is one week prior to each camp. Registration is required as space is lim-ited. Full payment is due two days prior to the camp. For more information or to register, call 956-381-9922. The EWBC is located at 714 Raul Longoria Rd.

Registration open for Ridley Rush Run/Walk

BROWNSVILLE – The Gladys Porter Zoo in-vites the public to the

1st Annual Ridley Rush 1 Mile Walk/Run. The family fun-run has been created to raise awareness for the en-dangered Kemp’s Ridley sea turtle. The run will kick-off the Sixth Annual Yappo-Palooza Sea Turtle Festival taking place at the Zoo for the first time.

Registration is now open and the run takes place on Saturday, June 11, at the zoo with the race beginning at 9 a.m. Spaces are limited.

The Ridley Rush route takes the runners through Gladys Porter Zoo as they

experience what a baby sea turtle endures on its rush to the ocean. Sea turtle cos-tumes are encouraged.

The cost to participate is $12 for adults and children. This covers admission to the Zoo, a medal and entrance to the YappoPalooza Sea Turtle Festival family event. Lo-cated on Zoo grounds, the festival runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. after the race. All proceeds will go the Kemp’s Ridley Bi-National Conser-vation Program.

For more information, please visit www.yappo-palooza.net or www.gpz.org or call 956-546-7187.

SAN ANTONIO – U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Jacqueline Cabre-

ra graduated from basic mil-itary training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, San Antonio after completing an intensive, eight-week pro-gram that included training in areas ranging from mil-itary discipline and studies

to physical fitness and basic warfare principles and skills.

Cabrera is the daughter of Nati Cabrera and Rene Cabrera Sr. of Alton. She is a 2013 graduate of Juarez-Lin-coln High School in La Joya and earned an associate’s degree in 2014 from South Texas College in McAllen.

Completes USAF basics

Memorial Day program planned

McALLEN – There will be a Memorial Day program at the

Veterans War Memorial of Texas in McAllen on Mon-day, May 30, at 9 a.m. The memorial is located at 3129 Galveston Ave.

The ceremony is to honor and remember all Americans killed and missing in action during all the wars and con-flicts fought by the military

of this nation. Eugene Gutierrez, a

WWII veteran and Congres-sional Gold Medal recipient will be the keynote speaker. The McAllen High band and choir will provide music be-ginning at 8:30 a.m.

For further information, contact Col. Frank Plummer at 956-631-2511 or Jan Hart-zog at 956-605-3486.

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This summer MHM will present The Historical MysteryTour: a tour that will provide children the opportunity

to visit and learn about the city’s historic sites throughexhibits, informational tours, special presentations,

reenactments, hands on activities, and mysteryscavenger hunts. This program will begin June 7

and concludes June 23; Tuesday-Thursday.

Sites include:1. Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church2. La Lomita Chapel3. NABA Butterfly Center – Oblate Trail4. William Jennings Bryan Home 5. Shary Mansion6. Gregg Wood Home7. Border Theatre8. La Lomita Chapel - End of Program Celebration

For more information on memberships please contactLinda Castaneda at 956-580-8646

Our Historical Mystery Tour Summer Programs are FREE for Museum Members or $30 per child for the full three week session.

Family memberships may be purchased for $50 for the year and will allow up to four kids per family to enroll in our Summer Programs. Any additional kids per family may purchase a $10

student membership to attend the programs.

Space is limited.

Registration endsMay 27, 2016

Where:ALTON CITY HALL

When:Mon - Fri 8:30am - 4:30 pm

Ages:5-12 Birth Certificate Required

Cost:$100.00 per child

Camp will take place June 6 - July 29

Mon-Fri 8:00 am to 4:30 pm at the

Alton Recreation Center

Kids will enjoy many fun & safe activities

Breakfast & lunch will be provided.

Parent night - Meet the Camp Director & Staff

June 2nd 6:00-7:00 pm

ComingAttractionsComingAttractions

May 28• The Upper Valley art League hosts Surreal Portrait

Painting by guest artist Veronica Jaeger. It takes place at the Kika de la Garza Fine Arts Center, 921 E. 12th Street in Mission from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Cost is $80 for members and $90 for non-members. The course is limited to 10 students, with a minimum of four to form the class. It is for ages 17 and up and is designed for all-level artists. For more information, contact Jaeger at verojaeger2013@gmail.com.

June 23-July 2• The Pharr Community Theater presents “The Com-

plete Works of William Shakespeare Abridged” with three actors, under the direction of Isidro Lerma with Rise Morris assisting. The three actors perform all of William Shakespeare’s plays in under two hours while playing all the parts. PCT is located at 213 W. Newcombe Ave. in Pharr. For more information, call 361-461-2874.

July 14-24• The Pharr Community Theater presents “El Color

de Nuestra Piel,” a Spanish language drama/tragedy called by Celestino Goroztiza. PCT is located at 213 W. New-combe Ave. in Pharr. For information, call 956-655-9308.

(To see the complete Coming Attractions calendar, go to ptrgv.com)

RGV Bandidas take on Monterrey Roller Derby June 11

McALLEN – On a cold December eve-ning, the board of

director members from two rival leagues met at a and ini-tiated talks of a merger. After deliberation, the two boards presented a proposal to their respective league members.

The end result was the birth of a new and now, the only roller derby league, in the Rio Grande Valley. South Texas Rolleristas, estab-lished 2007, and Mactown Rebel Rollers, established 2012, combined their forces to create a larger and more competitive league now named the RGV Bandidas. Each team had the common vision of achieving Women’s Flat Roller Derby Associa-tion (WFTDA) league status.

The RGV Bandidas, the Rio Grande Valley’s only flat track roller derby league, is preparing for their next bout, and they’re ready for battle. It’s all happening in McAl-len when the RGV Bandidas All Star Team host Monter-rey Roller Derby in this epic battle for the border on Sat-urday night, June 11. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and the bout starts at 7 p.m. at the De Leon Sports Park Pavilion, 4201 N. 29th Street, McAl-len.

The resurgence of roller derby has reached the mass-

es most recently thanks to media exposure and mov-ies like “Whip It.” The lo-cal roller derby leagues are bringing the hard-hitting ac-tion for the RGV community to experience up close and personal. Attendees can be submerged in the action by purchasing “Suicide Seats” which are located on the actual skating rink. It’s a unique sporting experience that can be enjoyed by view-ers of all ages. Roller derby events incorporate an eclec-tic mix of sport’s entertain-ment, athleticism, and even live music during the half-time show!

The revival of modern day roller derby was initi-ated in Austin in the early 2000s by a grassroots group of women. Since, then the sport has grown immensely as several leagues, on both banked and flat tracks, have been created across the U.S. and around the globe. For some, the sport is a great workout, a chance to be a part of a team. For others, it is a way of life, and a place to let off some steam.

Presale tickets are avail-able at brownpapertickets.com/event/2556942. Tickets are $4 for children and $5 for adults. Suicide tickets are $10.

Speer Memorial kicks off summer reading program

Speer Memorial Library is getting ready for a summer full of fun and

excitement with the Summer Reading Program 2016 “On Your Mark, Get Set…Read!” This year’s theme will ex-plore a variety of ways to im-prove health and well-being, including fitness, nutrition and stress relief.

The official registration for the program is June 7 to 9 from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. each at the Children’s De-partment; however, partici-pants will be able to register throughout the duration of the program.

Library staff has planned an action-packed summer of activities to help readers get empowered and energized: arts and crafts, movies, guest speakers, Premier Martial Arts, Lizbeth “La Muñequi-ta” clown, the “Thunder Horse” chapter of the Har-ley Owner’s Group (HOG), Andre Cannon and Ladies of Harley (LOH) and Trufit Gym Rocky Singleterry with staff to share nutrition and physical fitness.

“Our goal is to make sure that reading is enjoyable for children and becomes a reg-ular summer pastime,” said Lisa Rivera, children’s li-

brarian.The summer reading pro-

gram at Speer Memorial are designed to help children develop positive attitudes about reading, books and the library and to encourage them to maintain their read-ing skills during the summer vacation. It offers access to experiences that further their sense of discovery and expe-riences through which they can learn to work coopera-tively.

Parents are advised that The Little Tykes activities will be scheduled on Fridays at 10 a.m. during the summer reading program for partici-pation. Babies to age 4 are invited to participate in Yoga for Babies, story time, nurs-ery rhymes and crafts.

The library has contin-ued sponsorship with Mis-sion C.I.S.D. summer food service program that will be provide lunch at no charge on Mondays thru Fridays from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. from June 6 through July 29. It is for children from ages 1 to 18.

The library is located at 12th and Kika De La Garza Loop in Mission. Call 956-580-8750 for more informa-tion.

‘Here Be Dragons’ invades IMAS

McALLEN – Drag-ons will invade the International Muse-

um of Art & Science when the newest exhibit, “Here Be Dragons” opens Saturday, May 28. The exhibit is or-ganized by the Potawatomi Zoo and produced by Build 4 Impact Inc.

There will be a special preview for IMAS members with free admission tonight, May 27, from 6 to 9 p.m. As a special feature of the pre-view, the UTRGV Society of Physics Students (SPS) will present “Dragon’s Breath” from 7 to 8 p.m.

Featuring 4,000 square feet in the IMAS Discovery Pavilion, “Here Be Drag-ons” exhibit is designed to make connections between living, breathing dragons and those of fanciful folk-lore, literature, mythology and legend. A variety of liv-ing “dragon” species from around the world is included in the comprehensive exhib-it. The exhibit features 20 real-life lizards, including Frilled Dragons, Basilisks

and Monitor Lizards, plus many more.

It offers a variety of hands-on interactive stations for visitors to explore hu-man-dragon cultural and his-torical connections by travel-ing back to medieval times, across continents to Asia and through time with paleon-tology digs. Experience the thrill of a medieval catapult, become a paleontologist in the Dino dig box, create a magical world through pup-pets and more. Visitors will also see the “dragons” of to-day and learn what they eat, how they survive in the wild, their natural predators and the challenges to their sur-vival. Learn how you can play a vital part in preserving “dragons” and their habitats.

This exhibition is not in-cluded in general admission. There is a $5 additional en-trance fee for this exhibition except for Family Premium Membership and above.

IMAS is located at 1900 W. Nolana. For further in-formation, call 682-0123.

Spend your ‘Summer Nights at the Museum’

EDINBURG – The Mu-seum of South Texas History announces its

sixth annual Summer Nights at the Museum. The family adventure three-night series will be held June 9, June 30 and July 14 at 7 p.m. on each date.

The museum will come to life with costumed interpret-ers, hands-on activities and outdoor fun. Each night will focus on one of the three gal-leries of the Rio Grande Leg-acy exhibition, providing a new adventure each evening.

Start off any of the three nights with a lively puppet show that will feature char-acters from the Rio Grande Legacy galleries. Following the puppet show, children can participate in the “Find Me if You Can” game mo-tivating participants to find

costumed interpreters or ob-jects inspired by the puppet show characters. A nightly prize will be drawn from entrants that complete the game.

Guests who attend and play the “Find Me” game at all three Summer Nights at the Museum will also have a chance to win a grand prize.

Admission to Summer Nights is included in the reg-ular admission price (passes and coupons excluded). As a participating museum in the Blue Star Museums, all ac-tive duty military personnel and up to five family mem-bers receive free admission to all three Summer Nights. Museum members partici-pate for free.

The museum is located on the courthouse square in downtown Edinburg.

Quinta Mazatlan hosts ‘Reptile Adventure’

McALLEN – Vis-it Quinta Mazat-lan World Birding

Center on Thursday, June 2, for the kick-off the Summer Family Nights program with the number one reptile show in the country, Danny Con-nor’s live Reptile Adventure. The show is an interactive demonstration that is infor-mative and entertaining.

Among the stars of the show are “Juanita,” a Retic-ulated Python; “Spartacus,” a 100-year-old, 110-pound Alligator Snapping Turtle; and “Apollo,” an Albino

Burmese Python.Conner has been keep-

ing and caring for reptiles for over 30 years and has a unique background blend of education, science and theater that combines as he shares his love, knowledge and respect for these intrigu-ing animals.

The park admission is $3 per person which includes the program; no advance res-ervation is required. Quinta Mazatlan is located at 600 Sunset in McAllen. For more information contact Quinta Mazatlan at 956-681-3370.

STATECAPITAL

HIGHLIGHTS

By Ed SterlingTexas Press Association

Ban on outdoor music may get changed

McAllen city commis-sioners voted at their meeting Monday night to ban outdoor amplified music in the down-town Entertainment District but that may change.

The commissioner who ar-gued hard for the ban during the meeting, John Ingram, on Tuesday opened the door to modifying it. Commissioners will also have to revisit the prohibition on under-21-year-old patrons in the district.

The Entertainment Dis-trict is the official name for an area centered on South 17th Street that grew out of a deci-sion by the city a decade ago to make the historic street, also known as Guerra Street, the centerpiece of what would be an area of bars and restau-rants that would attract and entertain local residents and out-of-towners. The street dates from the founding era of McAllen a century ago. It's in the original townsite south of Business 83 and east of Bi-centennial Blvd.

The vote to kill outdoor amplified music came af-ter much discussion, with Commissioner John Ingram, whose district includes the Entertainment District, say-ing he gets lots of phone calls from residents complaining of loud music.

"These neighbors around that area really get upset when these bars blast music and it's a complaint I get reg-ularly. I just don't think at this point in time there's a way to calculate decibels (loudness) because it just opens us up for fights," argued Ingram. Bar owners and patrons "go home to quiet" but the neigh-

bors can't.A change, maybe?

Appearing on 710KURV radio Tuesday afternoon, Ingram appeared to modify somewhat his objection to outdoor amplified music say-ing, "After thinking about it, I think I'm more concerned about 'club music,' 'club mu-sic' that is playing outside," meaning music with a prom-inent bass beat. Note: Ingram was a guest on The Drive Home Tuesday, of which I am a co-host.

Ingram said, too, that they will have to reconsider the under-21-year-old patron ban because the language is too sweeping. "The way we passed it, you can't be any-where in that area and be under 21. It's going to affect restaurants and we don't want that," he explained.

During debate over the amplified music ban during the meeting, Commissioner Richard Cortez argued for a compromise rather than a complete ban. "Sometimes we prejudge business owners and we don't give them an op-portunity to regulate and con-form to our rules. So, if we do away with amplification, then, in essence, we're pre-judging them, we're not giv-ing someone an opportunity to comply with the rules."

It was also recommended to commissioners that they prohibit under-21-year-olds in certain bars in the District and that brought a response from Commissioner Aida Ramirez.

"I see it every day," said Ramirez, who works for a judge at the Edinburg court-house, meaning young peo-ple in court over drug or

alcohol offenses. "I have to protect the young. They have no business out there."

While commissioners es-tablished the Entertainment District in 2005, they gave it a 10-year life, after which it had to be renewed by the commission. It was during the discussion of renewing the district that commission-ers made their decisions on outdoor music and the age of bar patrons. To get busi-nesses to locate there, the city eased various zoning restric-tions including for those for businesses that sell alcohol, whether a stand-alone bar or a restaurant.

In the end, Commission-ers Ingram, Ramirez and Salinas voted to renew the district with Cortez voting no because of the ban on all outdoor amplified music, saying that while "the ma-jority of what we have here is good and I would like to give the business owners an opportunity to succeed" and, essentially, to try for a com-promise.

Commissioner Trey Peb-ley voted no, along with Cor-tez, although he did not join in the discussion. Commission-er Veronica Vela Whitacre was absent and Mayor Jim Darling did not vote as is the mayor's prerogative.

Two petitions to "Save outdoor music in McAllen's outdoor entertainment dis-trict" have been started at pe-tition.org.

City Manager Roy Rodri-guez confirmed Wednesday that he had spoken to com-missioners and the mayor and he expects them to reconsider the issue at another meeting.

for the Western District of Texas ruled that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service failed to take into account a multi-state voluntary conservation

plan prior to listing the spe-cies as threatened, and after the ruling, the lesser prairie chicken lost its designation as a threatened species.

“I’m pleased to see the U.S. Justice Department has dropped its latest attempt to impede our rights,” Miller said.

3 states seek clarity on fed-eral transgender guidelines

AUSTIN — Attorneys General Ken Paxton of Texas, Patrick Mor-

rissey of West Virginia and Scott Pruitt of Oklahoma are seeking clarification of the federal government’s guide-lines regarding bathroom ac-cess and other issues involv-ing transgender students.

On May 13, the Civil Rights Division of the U.S. Department of Justice and the Office for Civil Rights of the U.S. Department of Educa-tion sent a nine-page letter to schools nationwide establish-ing guidelines for bathroom accessibility and other issues related to the treatment of transgender students, includ-ing: a safe and nondiscrimi-natory environment; identifi-cation documents, names and pronouns; sex-segregated ac-tivities and facilities; and pri-vacy and education records.

A condition for receiv-ing federal funds, according to the letter, is that a school agrees that it will not exclude, separate, deny benefits to or otherwise treat differently on the basis of sex any person in its educational programs or activities unless expressly au-thorized to do so under Title IX of the Education Amend-ments of 1972 or its imple-menting regulations.

The three state attorneys general responded by saying the federal agencies’ “Dear Colleague” letter raises more questions than it answers. Their joint letter also requests that the Obama Administra-tion “be extremely clear about what is and isn’t allowed” and respond by May 24.

Sales tax holiday is setTexas Comptroller Glenn

Hegar on May 16 announced certain water-conserving, en-ergy-efficient products that carry the “Energy Star” label

may be purchased tax-free Saturday, May 28, through Monday, May 30.

According to Hegar, shop-pers will save an estimated $8.7 million in state and local sales tax during the Memorial Day Weekend sales tax holi-days.

“Anyone who has lived through a Texas summer knows that this is the time of year when our state is hit by peak demands for both water and electricity,” Hegar said.

A complete list of items that qualify for the state sales tax break is available online at cpa.state.tx.us.Employers expand payrolls

The Texas Workforce Commission on May 20 re-ported that Texas employers expanded their payrolls in April with the addition of 8,300 seasonally adjusted nonfarm jobs.

However, Texas’ season-ally adjusted unemployment rate increased to 4.4 percent in April, up one-tenth of a point from 4.3 percent in March. The national average unemployment rate was 5.0 percent for April.

Ruth R. Hughs, TWC commissioner representing employers, said, “Over the month, private employers added more than 8,000 jobs, strengthening the Texas labor market. The fact that our state has added jobs for 12 of the last 13 months is a credit to the diversity and resilience of employers in Texas.”Business startups increase

Texas Secretary Carlos H. Cascos on May 10 announced his agency saw a 7 percent in-crease in new business filings in April compared to the pre-vious year.

A total of 14,871 certifi-cates of formation were filed with the Texas Secretary of State in April, creating new for-profit corporations, pro-

fessional corporations, pro-fessional associations, limited liability companies and lim-ited partnerships. This rep-resents a 7.1 percent increase over April 2015, which saw the formation of 13,874 new for-profit formations. These numbers exclude non-profit entities.

“The growth of new busi-nesses reflects a willingness for Texans to work hard and continue growing the Texas economy,” Cascos said.

Publications promote travel

The Texas Department of Transportation on May 19 posted information steering vacationers to its annually published Texas State Travel Guide, the quarterly Texas Highways Events Calendar and Texas Official Travel Map.

“Whether you have a par-ticular destination in mind or are just planning to explore Texas, these publications will help you every mile of your trip,” said Joan Henderson, TxDOT’s Travel Informa-tion Division director. “Tex-as is big and so is the list of things to do and places to see offered in these publications. Plus, the travel information is free.”

These publications may be picked up at any of the 12 Texas Travel Information Centers across the state. They also may be ordered online or by calling (800) 452 -9292.

Prairie chicken appeal dropped

The U.S. Justice Depart-ment on May 11 dropped its appeal to have the less-er prairie chicken listed as a threatened species under fed-eral protection via the Endan-gered Species Act, Texas Ag-riculture Commissioner Sid Miller announced May 13.

Miller said that previous-ly, the U.S. District Court

1217 N. Conway • Mission, TX (956) 585-4893The Progress Times (USPS 971-420; ISSN 0890-2666) is published

each Friday by Mission Publishing Co., 1217 N. Conway, Mission, Texas78572, (956) 585-4893. Subscriptions $20 annual in Hidalgo County;$25 outside of Hidalgo County. Second class postage paid in Mission,Texas 78572. ©2015 Mission Publishing Company, Inc. POSTMASTER:Send address changes to the PROGRESS TIMES, P.O. Box 399, MissionTexas 78573.

LETTER GUIDELINESLetters to the Editor are welcome but must conform to certain guidelines. All letters must be original, dated, signed and bear thecomplete name, address and phone number of the writer/signer. No photo copied letters will be printed. No letters addressed toothers will be printed. Letter content must be relevant to concerns and interests of Mission and the surrounding area. Relevanceis determined by the editor. Anonymous cards or letters are neither read nor printed. Letters may be submitted by e-mail to letters@progresstimes.net, butmust include the author’s name and daytime phone number.

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MEMBER 2015

www.ptrvg.com

opinion www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.comNEWS | SPORTS | ENTERTAINMENT | PHOTOS

May 27, 2016 page 4A

May 27, 2016 page 5Awww.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

Ramiro J. Rodriguez, Jr.Mayor

James ArandaMayor Pro-Tem

Ruben De LeonCouncilman

Robert A. SalinasCouncilman

Israel SilvaCouncilman

Ofelia Peña PerezCouncilwoman

Ofelia Peña PerezIsrael SilvaRobert A. SalinasRuben De LeonJames ArandaRamiro Rodriguez, Jr.CouncilwomanCouncilmanCouncilmanCouncilman

www.c i t yo fpa lmhurs t tx .com

Mayor Pro-TemMayor

LOCATIONS IN

LA JOYA • PALMVIEW • WESLACO

CALL OR CLICK TODAY!(956) 585-6207

www.lajoyafcu.com

Maria “Geny” SalinasCommissioner

Anna Lisa RuizCommissioner

Jose A. “Fito” SalinasMayor

Mary SalinasMayor Pro-Tem

Victorio SalinasCommisioner

Mike AlanizCity Administrator

Roberto JacksonCity Attorney

Julianita SabalaAdministrative Secretary

City of Alton“e City on the Grow”

509 S. Alton Blvd.Alton, TX 78573www.alton-tx.gov

(956) 432-0760Fax:(956) 432-0766

Salvador VelaMayor

Arturo R. Galvan Jr.Mayor Pro-Tem

Ricardo GarzaCommissioner

Richard ArevaloCommissioner

Emilio Cantu Jr.Commissioner

911 Miller Ave, Mission, TX 78572(956) 585-2142

This Memorial Day, we salute the heros of our Armed Forces - past and present for their courage and dedication to our country.

Gerardo Perez Mayor

Joel Garcia, Jr.Mayor Pro-Tem

Joselito Hernandez Councilman

Ricardo Villarreal Councilman

Gracie FloresCouncilwoman

Arlando NaciancenoCouncilman

Ramon Segovia - City Manager David Nacianceno -Assistant City Manager

8:30 a.m. – Laurel Hill Cemetery9:00 a.m. – San Jose Cemetery9:20 a.m. – Catholic Cemetery

10:00 a.m. – Granjeno Cemetery11:00 a.m. – State Veterans Cemetery

American Legion Post 93

Catholic War Veterans Post 1065

ACE Club6:00pm – Leo Peña Placita Park

8:30 a.m. service

RGV State Veterans Cemetery

8:00am – 21 Gun Salute at Laurel Hill Cemetery

9:00am – Mass at C.W.V. Post 1065 at 500 W Bus. 83, Mission10:30am - 21 Gun Salute

San Jose/Catholic Cemetery (Mission)10:40am – 21 Gun Salute Peñitas Cemetery

11:00am – 21 Gun Salute San Jose Cemetery (Abram)

6:00pm – 21 Gun Salute La Placita Park across H.E.B.

MEMORIAL DAY SERVICES

Remember...Thank...Support...Our Troops

On Memorial Day, we pause to honor the memories of so many brave soldiers who lost their lives defending our nation’s freedoms. On Memorial Day,

we thank our brave veterans for their service to our country. On Memorial Day, let’s also remember to show our support for our courageous troops who continue to uphold the values and protections of our great nation today. Thank

you to our men and women in uniform.

May 27, 2016 page 6A

By Luciano Guerra

The All-Valley Team of the Year is a recogni-tion many covet but

few receive. This year two of the three teams nominat-ed in the Sub 6A girls’ team category are from Sharyland High School – the Lady Rat-ters soccer and golf teams.

With 20-plus sub 6A Valley schools having girls teams in 10 - 12 sports each, that’s over 200 teams that were eligible to receive this honor. Therefore, just receiv-ing a nomination is quite an accomplishment. And while having two of the three teams nominated in the same year both come from the same high school may not be un-precedented, it is to say the least a rare occurrence.

Let’s take a look at why these two teams were nomi-nated.Lady Rattlers Golf Team

The Lady Rattlers golf team qualified for the state tournament once again this year by first claiming the district title and then being

the regional runner-up. The team, made up of seniors Ana Jose Erana, Mariana Flores and Christina Shinn-Roldan, sophomore Raquel Flores and freshman Laura Rodri-guez, placed third at the state tourney held at Wolfdancer Golf Club in Lost Pines, Tex-as last month.

While Sharyland High boys and girls golf coach Fernando Rodriguez had high praises to sing about all his players, he did single out the one that has played a ma-jor role in the Lady Rattlers’ success over the past four years.

“Ana Jose Erana has been our No. 1 player,” explained Rodriguez. “She’s the one that’s been on the varsity for four years and that has now advanced to state all four of those years. She’s been the cornerstone of this team for some time now and while it’s going to be hard to replace her, she’s moving on to big-ger and better things includ-ing playing golf for St. Ed-wards University next year.”

“Mariana Flores and

Christina Shinn-Roldan are our other two seniors,” add-ed Rodriguez. “Mariana has been on the varsity for three years. She and Ana were both named All-State, Ana to the first team and Mariana to the second team. Christina was named to the third team All-State.”

As for what it means to have his team nominated as one of the three Sub 6A Girls Teams of the Year Rodriguez said, “It’s a big honor for our golf program to be nominat-ed. The girls have definitely put their time and effort into being one of the top three teams in the state. We’ve been ranked third in the state for most of the year and that’s where we finished.”

The Lady Rattlers’ score of 666 over the two-day, 36 hole tournament was just seven strokes behind Austin Vandergrift’s state runner-up score of 659 but 58 strokes behind Humble Kingwood Park’s state championship score of 608.

Lady Rattlers Soccer Team

For the second year in a row the Lady Rattlers soc-cer team had an undefeated season to claim the District 31-5A championship before going on to earn Bi-district, Area and Regional Quarter-final championships as well. And for the second year in a row the Lady Rattlers saw their season come to an end just one round short of the state tournament.

When asked what it means to him and his team to be nominated as one of the top three Sub 6A Girls Teams of the Year, second-year Lady

Rattlers head coach Aaron Clemons said, “It’s nice any-time you are honored with a nomination like that. There’s some tough, tough competi-tion, however, so it’s going to be tough to win. But at this point the girls and I are flattered and honored just to be in the running.”

As for the fact that two of the three teams from across the Valley nominated are from Sharyland High School Clemons said, “This goes to prove that Sharyland is top notch in the Valley when it comes to girls’ athletics. Ex-

pectations are very high here amongst coaches and the students so they’re going to step it up and they’re going to achieve at all levels and in all sports.”

The third team nominated as Sub 6A Girls Team of the Year is the Rio Hondo soft-ball team. The team to take home the honor will be an-nounced at the 2016 All-Val-ley Sports Awards Banquet to be held at the DoubleTree Hotel in McAllen, June 14. Dallas Cowboys legend Drew Pearson is the keynote speaker for the event.

Lady Rattlers soccer and golf teams recognized

Sharyland Girls Golf TeamPictured from left to right are: Raquel Flores (Sophomore), Ana Jose Erana (Senior), Mariana

Flores (Senior), Christina Shinn-Roldan (Senior), Laura Rodriguez (Freshman)

Sharyland Lady Rattlers Soccer Team

Sharyland Lady Rattler Kaitie Watson moves the ball adeptly between two Gregory Portland defenders as the Lady Rattlers defeated the Ladycats 3-2 in the Regional Quarterfinal round

of the state playoffs April 5. Progress Times photo by Luciano Guerra

May 27, 2016 page 7Awww.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

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By Luciano Guerra

With just under four months on the job as the Mission

Eagles’ new head football coach, Koy Detmer is taking steps to put a new system in place that hopefully will lead to a season that is more suc-cessful than the past two.

Football has always played a major role in his life, first as a coach’s son then as a high school, college and NFL player and most re-cently as an assistant coach and an offensive coordina-tor. The former Mission and Philadelphia Eagle quarter-back is taking the challenges of building a successful pro-gram seriously.

One decision Detmer had to make was whether to par-ticipate in spring football practice for two weeks in May or to get an additional week of conditioning and practice in August. He chose to hold spring football and that has proved beneficial.

“I thought it was very im-portant for us to participate in spring ball the first year coming in,” Detmer said. “It’s giving us an opportu-nity to evaluate some of the guys in pads and to see what we have to work with. Also, it’s giving us an opportunity to install our different sys-tems both offensively and defensively. Going forward, we’ll weigh our options and see whether to go with spring ball or not, but we’re getting a lot out of these past two weeks so I can see us con-tinuing to do it.”

Another decision the head coach had to make was who would be running his offense and his defense. He has cho-sen some seasoned coaches with lots of experience to be part of his coaching staff.

“Offensively Coach (Eric) Mannheimer has been down here before,” ex-plained Detmer. “He was a defensive line coach here in Mission under my Dad when I was playing. From the time he left here he’s been on the

offensive side of the ball as an offensive line coach, of-fensive coordinator and a head coach. So he has a lot of experience and is going to be a real asset to our team.”

“My other hire was Coach (Chris) Castillo,” added Det-mer. “He’s coming in from Medina Valley as my defen-sive coordinator. He’s done a good job there coaching but he’s also coached at the col-lege level at Texas Lutheran University and some other small colleges.”

As for how his team is shaping up in comparison to any expectations he may have had coming in Detmer said, “I would say that if anything they’ve surpassed what I expected us to be able to get in terms of our offen-sive system. They’ve picked it up well so that’s a credit to them being real studious when we’re having meetings and things like that. They’ve also worked hard in the weight room. As a result, I’m impressed by the fact that they’re such well-disciplined kids, which has allowed them to pick up the system and take big strides already.”

Two players Detmer will be counting on for on-the-field leadership are senior quarterback Rudy Trevino and All-State junior line-backer Steven De Leon. Judging by the high expecta-tions they both have for their first season under Detmer, they seem more than ready to take on the challenge of overcoming the back-to-back disappointing seasons (2-4, 1-5) the Eagles have just been through.

“This team has what it takes to make it back into the playoffs,” Trevino said. “Our first goal though is to win a district title. We’re ready to bring that tradition back to Mission.”

“We will definitely have a shot at the playoffs,” added De Leon. “That’s what we’re aiming for. Doing so would be exciting for us and for our fans.”

New Detmer era begins at Mission

The Mission Eagles have been participating in spring football over the past two weeks in preparation for their first season under head coach Koy Detmer. Pictured here from left to right are five of the incoming seniors Detmer will be counting on to

lead his team; Oscar De La Garza (WR, SS), Jesus Omar Vera (WR, CB), Rudy Trevino (QB), Roberto Martinez (RB) and Angel Alvarez (WR).

Progress Times photo by Luciano Guerra

Mission All-State junior linebacker Steven De Leon will be key in the Eagles success defensively during their upcom-ing season.

Progress Times photo by Luciano Guerra

page 8A May 27, 2016www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

Mission’s Kmart is one of 68 loca-tions closing in the

United States this year. For at least 36 years, the chain store has had a home in Mis-sion, but it will stop opera-tion in July.

Due to a low fourth quar-ter and low full year perfor-mance in 2015, the chain owner Sears Holdings an-nounced in February that it would accelerate the closing of unprofitable stores. All Sears stores and most Kmart stores will close in July, two Kmart stores will close in September.

The location at 1405 East Expressway 83 opened it’s doors in May 1992. In December 2015, Hous-ton-based real estate com-pany NewQuest Properties bought the commercial property.

"This is an unbelievable location with exceptional long-term potential," said Meredith McLeod-Cobb, an associate with NewQuest.

The site is located six miles north of the Anzalduas International Bridge, and the daily traffic count exceeds more than 125,000 vehicles, according to a NewQuest press release.

Mission EDC’s Chief Executive Officer Alex Me-ade said the store’s closing

Kmart to close its doors

We’re not a bank or a government office, so we get very few

holidays in the newspaper business. Nonetheless, the Progress Times office will be closed Monday, May 30 in observance of the Memorial Day holiday. After finishing three very busy weeks work-ing on graduation editions for La Joya ISD, Mission CISD and Sharyland ISD, our staff could use a nice long weekend. Hope you en-joy the holiday too.

We will resume regular hours on Tuesday.

We’re Taking A Day Off!

By Kathy Olivarez

The Mission City Coun-cil authorized Public Works to solicit bids

for overlaying of several streets within the city at an estimated cost of $500,000. Los Ebanos will be over-laid from FM 495 to Mile 2 Road. Stewart Road will be overlaid between US 83 and Business 83 and also between FM 495 and Mile 2 North Road. E. 28th Street will be overlaid from Shary Road to Taylor Road.

CDBG Fund AllocationsA public hearing was held

to discuss moving $10,000 from the CBDG action plan from Dentists Who Care to Mission Crime Stoppers for a program designed to teach residents to deter crime in low-income neighborhoods.

A second public hearing was held on the Proposed Action Plan for 2016-2017 Community Development Block Grant Funds. The city’s 2016 CDBG allocation is $904,240. The city’s Citi-zen’s Advisory Committee recommended the following allocations of these funds: Public Service Agencies - $50,000. This includes Sil-ver Ribbon, $4,000; Salva-tion Army, $2,000; Amigos del Valle Activities, $4,000; Amigos del Valle Meals, $22,000; LRGVDC Area Agency on Aging, $7,000; Easter Seals RGV, $4,000; and Children’s Advocacy Center, $7,000.

The bulk of the CDGB allocation is reserved for the Housing Assistance Program at $637,000. Of that amount, $622,000 is for Reconstruc-tion and $15,000 is for Reha-

bilitation of homes. The remainder of the

CDBG grant funds go for administration: $137,240 for the city’s Community Devel-opment Program administra-tion, and $80,000 for Hous-ing Administration.

These recommendations are being provided for public comments. Oral or written comments will be accepted through June 13. For more information, contact Com-munity Development Direc-tor Jo Anne Longoria at 956-580-8670.

In other action, the coun-cil once again heard a request to rezone 0.250 acres of land, which is part of the golf course and lake reserve out of original plat of Meadow Creek Subdivision, from ag-ricultural open interim to R-2 for duplexes and four-plex-es. Once again, there were residents of Meadow Creek present to ask the council to vote against the request. Additionally there were peti-tions from residents gone for the summer who are opposed to the action included in the council’s packets.

Kay Wolf, a 10-year resi-dent of Meadow Creek, told the council she purchased her home there because it was a nice quiet subdivision.

Placing four small rental units in the midst of their pri-marily over-55 subdivision would change the character of their area, she said. Al-ready there is heavy traffic making the streets unsafe. She said she has witnessed children almost run over by school buses.

Several other residents of Meadow Creek also spoke against the zoning.

Mayor Norberto (Beto) Salinas told residents that the item had been heard by the Planning and Zoning Com-mission twice and had re-ceived their approval, so the council had no choice other than to pass the request.

Salinas asked for a mo-tion to that effect but none was forthcoming. He made the motion himself. There was no second. Councilman Dr. Armando O’Caña then made a motion to deny the request. The motion passed by a vote of 4-1 with Mayor Salinas casting the lone op-posing vote.

In a later action, a one-year conditional use permit to allow sale of alcoholic beverages at the Meadow Creek Pro Shop was ap-proved.

Also under zoning mat-ters, a conditional use permit requested by Ariel King for The Bryan House bed and breakfast and events center to be located on the north-west corner of Bryan Road and Mile Two North was approved. When previously heard, there was not suffi-cient parking for events but changes have been made to allow for some parking near the bed and breakfast and an additional 26 valet parking spots for special events.

Myra Rocha, director of Speer Memorial Library, was granted permission to accept a 2016 Impact Grant from the Texas State Library and Archives commission. The money will be used for a Peek-a-Book system that allows young children to see part of a book on video to de-cide if they want to read it. Approximately $2,895 will

go for the video program while the other $7,000 will pay for the books presented by the program.

The City of Mission de-clared five vehicles from the city to be surplus. They will be donated to Mission’s Sister Cities. In addition, the Weslaco Fire Department donated surplus fire gear to Mission, which will be do-nated to San Fernando, Tam-aulipas, one of Mission’s Sister Cities.

The council voted to deny the rate increases proposed by Sharyland Utilities and will hire an attorney to nego-tiation the proposed fees.

Authorization was grant-ed to Police Chief Rob-ert Dominguez to accept a $27,000 grant from 2015 Homeland Security Grant Program funds to purchase 12 tactical helmets, 12 head-set communication devices and two ballistic shields for the Mission SWAT team. The total cost of the equipment is $34,067. Chief Dominguez said the other $7,067 would come from the department’s drug forfeiture funding.

RecognitionsThe council honored

Luduvico “Toro” Martinez, director of Mission’s Boys and Girls Club for being named South Texas Region Boys & Girls Club Adminis-trator of the Year.

Teachers of the Year from all Mission Consolidated In-dependent School District campuses, and Sharyland Independent School District campuses were honored by the council.

Councilwoman Norie Garza was once again elect-ed Mayor Pro Tem.

City of Mission initiates $500,000 street improvement project

Third grade teacher Me-lissa Becerra didn’t know what she wanted

to study in college. At her mother’s insistence, she be-came a substitute at McAllen ISD. It was supposed to be a temporary job, something to earn her a little extra cash, but it was there that Becerra found her passion for teach-ing.

While she earned her de-gree at the University of Tex-as-Pan American, she substi-tuted, worked part time at a party supply store and stud-ied in between.

“There were times when I was ready to give up,but my parents would remind me of the importance of continu-ing and how it would pay off in the end. Boy,were they right,” Becerra said. “I can’t picture myself doing any-thing but teaching.”

Now, the teacher from La Joya ISD’s Patricio Perez Elementary represents the district as the Elementary Teacher of Year.

Becerra’s philosophy is that every child wants to be a learner and wants to be suc-cessful, but what is difficult is learning how to reach that child, she said.

Time can be a hinderance, but the key is making the most of it.

“We can’t work a miracle, that’s true. What we can do is try our best and doing that requires effort,” she said. “What I’ve learned about teaching, is that there are a variety of methods, tech-niques, strategies and tools that we should take advan-tage of. To be an effective teacher,sometimes you have to try them all.”

One of the third grade teacher’s techniques includes immersing herself into char-acter when reading aloud to her students, and creating voices and body movements to keep them engaged in the story. She will also often ex-plain to the students what she

would do if in the character’s position.

Part of Becerra’s teach-ing strategy includes being a “goof” and making her students laugh because she wants them to feel comfort-able with her.

“I don’t like my students to feel like coming to school is boring. I want them to be excited to come to school,” Becerra explained. “I try to find at least one thing that will excite them for the day. Sometimes it can be some-thing simple as writing a letter to a teacher or friend. Trying new strategies and making learning enjoyable is what I think makes me an effective teacher.”

In addition to teaching all subjects, she is a member of the Personal Learning Com-munities committee at Perez Elementary where she pres-ents on how to improve stu-dent achievement. Becerra is also the two-year storytelling coach for UIL.

Outside of school, she has participated in the Volun-teer Income Tax Assistance program, was a member of an organization that helped donate school supplies to children in Mexico and has recently considered join-ing a volunteer group at her church.

Becerra said that being selected Teacher of the Year has given her time to reflect on her profession. It’s been an eye-opener, she said. The award has reminded her of why she wanted to teach to begin with.

“I realize that sometimes, I take my position for grant-ed and how I affect the lives of others, especially my stu-dents. It’s easy to get dis-tracted with the paperwork,-constant meetings, stress of exams and the results that follow,” Becerra admitted. “We are the ones that inspire them to do their best. Here, with us, is where it begins.”

LJISD announces Elementary Teacher of the Year

Left to right: Board member Esperanza “Epie” Ochoa, Sec-ondary Teacher of the Year Lisa Sullivan from La Joya High

School, Elementary Teacher of the year Melissa Becerra from Patricio Perez Elementary, Superintendent Alda T. Benavides.

Courtesy Photo

By Lea Victoria Juarez

will not affect the city eco-nomically, but NewQuest’s purchase is a positive for the community.

Although the new tenants are not known, Meade said the location will remain a site for retail businesses. It will look similar to the stores at Shary Towne Crossing on Shary Road and Expressway 83. Some of the stores at the shopping center include Tar-get, T.J. Maxx, H-E-B Plus and Ross Dress for Less.

The Kmart’s original lo-cation was at 801 N. Bry-an Road, which is now the MEDC’s Center for Educa-tion and Economic Develop-ment.

There are three other Kmart locations in the Val-ley — McAllen, Harlingen and Brownsville — but those locations will remain open. According to the press re-lease from Sears Holdings, eligible associates impact-ed by these store closures will receive severance and will have the opportunity to apply for open positions at area Kmart or Sears stores. Kmart’s media team did not return phone calls to clarify who will be eligible for sev-erance.

Meade believes that those who are laid off due to Kmart’s closure, will apply to the new retail spots once the stores are open.

EVENT CENTERfrom pg 1A

NOTICE OF RATE CHANGE REQUESTOn April 29, 2016, as required by order of the Public Utility Commission of Texas

(“PUCT” or “Commission”) in Docket No. 45414, Sharyland Utilities, L.P. (“Sharyland”), a regulated electric utility company, filed an application with the PUCT titled Rate Filing Package of Sharyland Utilities, L.P. and Statement of Intent to Change Rates (“Application”).

The above-referenced proceeding is the first in which Sharyland’s rates will be set on a system-wide basis. The Application is based on a twelve-month test year ending December 31, 2015, and supports an increase over adjusted test-year retail base rate revenues of approximately $107 thousand or 0.11 percent, exclusive of riders. Sharyland’s system-wide cost-based retail base rate revenue requirement is $100.7 million, plus an additional $1.95 million that Sharyland is seeking to recover on an annual basis through certain riders. This includes a proposal to recover $30 million for deferred costs associated with construction of the electric system in the McAllen division during its initial years of operation. In addition, Sharyland is proposing a $3 million rate credit to all of its residential customers, which would result in an overall revenue decrease as compared to adjusted test year base rate revenues for residential customers. As proposed, monthly delivery rates for an average residential customer consuming 1,333 kWh in the Stanton, Brady, and Celeste divisions will remain unchanged, but in McAllen and Mission will increase by approximately $55. The Application also supports a total wholesale transmission cost of service of $145 million, plus an additional $3.4 million that Sharyland is seeking to recover on an annual basis through certain riders.

The Application potentially affects all customers and classes of customers in Sharyland’s Stanton, Brady, Celeste, and McAllen divisions. The Application also affects all customers taking service under Sharyland’s Tariff for Wholesale Transmission Service. In addition, the result could be a change in Sharyland’s transmission cost of service rates, which would impact all load serving entities in the Electric Reliability Council of Texas. Sharyland has proposed that the requested rates be made effective June 18, 2016.

A complete copy of Sharyland’s Application is available for inspection at the following locations:

Persons who wish to intervene in or comment upon these proceedings should notify the Public Utility Commission of Texas (Commission) as soon as possible, as an intervention deadline will be imposed. A request to intervene or for further information should be mailed to the Public Utility Commission of Texas, P.O. Box 13326, Austin, Texas 78711-3326. Further information may also be obtained by calling the Public Utility Commission at (512) 936-7120 or (888) 782-8477. Hearing- and speech impaired individuals with text telephones (TTY) may contact the commission through Relay Texas by dialing 7-1-1. The deadline for intervention in the proceeding is June 28, 2016.

Sharyland1031 Andrews Highway, Suite 400

Midland, Texas 79701-or-

1807 Ross Avenue, Suite 460Dallas, Texas 75201

Sutherland Asbill & Brennan LLP600 Congress Avenue, Suite 2000

Austin, Texas 78701

saving money by using the same property to construct a new water tower that is needed to support the growth in that area, rather than pur-chasing another parcel of land at another location.

The 40,000-square-foot building has a large open meeting hall with room to seat 1,200 people with ta-bles. This large meeting hall can be partitioned into three smaller conference halls.

One of those rooms can be further partitioned into six conference rooms with a seating capacity of 59 to 62 people each, according to the proposed floor plan.

Two collapsible stages will be included in the main meeting hall. In addition, the facility will have a lob-by area in the front of the building, a kitchen, staff of-fices, security office, storage rooms for tables and chairs, and a coffee bar area.

Garza said the new event

center would be used for city and chamber of commerce meetings, and possibly some of the larger school district meetings. He envisions us-ing the facility for Winter Texan events, trade shows, quinceneras, weddings, Tex-as Citrus Fiesta pageants and other purposes. The city will hire new staff with expertise in marketing and leasing out the facility for small conven-tions and other events.

It will also have an out-door area landscaped with

hiking trails and a backyard patio that could be used for outdoor receptions.

One acre of land is re-served for construction of a

new water tower to replace the old tower on Lucksinger Drive.

The city manager said he hopes to be able to break

ground in mid-August, and construction will take at least 18 months.

May 27, 2016 page 9Awww.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

Beware of sharp in-creases in your prop-erty taxes, thanks to

the Hidalgo County Apprais-al District driving up the tax rolls by increasing the appraised values for tax pur-poses.

If you are like many property owners in Hidalgo County, your notice of ap-praised value that arrived about a month ago from the Tax Appraisal District office was not a welcome one.

I thought the $55,000 in-crease in appraised value on my house last year was out-rageous. That is until I re-ceived notice of an $83,000 hike in the appraised value of my office building on Conway Ave. What are these people thinking?

There are a couple of op-tions for those who wish to protest the appraised value by the appraisal district. You can fill out the Property Apprais-al - Notice of Protest Form 50-132 yourself and submit it to the appraisal district be-fore the deadline, or you may turn the protest over to one of the professional companies

that will take a look at your property appraisal and com-pare it to comparable prop-erties (comps) in the same area to determine whether the appraised value should be lowered. The companies I am familiar with do not charge you anything unless they can lower your taxes. If they are successful, they bill you for a percentage of the amount they saved you. But the deadline for filing a protest is Tuesday, May 31. So, don’t delay if you believe your property appraisal is too high.

The necessary form is available on the Hidalgo County Appraisal District’s website at http://www.hidal-goad.org , or call their office at 956-381-8466.

There are certain exemp-tions that apply to some homeowners that could re-duce their property tax bill. To apply for the homestead exemption and/or the over age 65 exemption, use the Application for Residence Homestead Exemption Form 50-114, available at the ap-praisal district office or on-

line at their website: http://www.hidalgoad.org. For more information and to an-swer any other questions you may have, call the Appraisal District office. I have found the staff to be extremely pro-fessional and helpful.

I’m not happy with these sharp increases in appraised values. I believe there needs to be a cap limiting the amount of the increase to 7 percent per year. That equates to a 7 percent raise for the city, the county, the school district -- for every taxing entity. That far ex-ceeds the annual cost of liv-ing increases we see from year to year. It is also much more than most people’s wages increase. Teachers, for example, often receive a pay increase in the neighborhood of three percent. So, such sharp increases as the 46% increase on my office build-ing this year and the 46% in-crease on my house last year are very difficult to justify. The taxpayer cannot afford these huge increases.

Tax protest deadline looms

Coyote teacher receives district-wide award By Lea Victoria Juarez

Since she was in high school, Lisa Sullivan knew that she wanted to

be an educator. That was the goal she had in mind when she entered college and it was the goal she had in mind when she graduated from the University of Texas-Pan American.

“I can’t imagine feeling this sense of accomplish-ment...with any other pro-fession,” Sullivan said. “I can’t imagine any other way I would influence so many lives in the way that I do now. And all of this, my life as it stands today, is thanks to teachers who believed in me, encouraged me, and never gave up on me.”

She said she strives to be the positive influence on her students the way her teach-ers were for her. Now, the

La Joya High School teacher holds the title of district Sec-ondary Teacher of the Year.

Sullivan’s teaching phi-losophy is that the profession should be seen as an art form because it is a craft that is practiced and experienced. Her belief is that content knowledge is only 50 percent of teaching, while the other 50 percent is the delivery, nurturing and encourage-ment of students.

“It is true that everyone can learn, but to inspire a de-sire to learn within a student is the real challenge, and it should be the focal point of our journey as educators,” Sullivan said.

Although she has many concerns with public educa-tion, such as testing, bullying and classroom size; Sullivan believes the underlying issue is the lack of parental in-volvement. Lack of involve-

ment leads to educational failures that fall on the teach-er’s shoulders, which are of-ten already weighted down.

“As a campus we need to figure out a way to engage parents and make them more involved in the education-al career of their children,” the English teacher said. “I also believe that this is an initiative that needs to be addressed at an early stage. From elementary to high school we need to figure out ways to keep parents inter-ested in the lives and success of their children.”

To Sullivan, part of being an educator means tailor-ing her teaching technique to each individual student, which is a mentality that ev-ery teacher should adopt.

“Our students are chang-ing as the times are chang-ing, and we need to change with them. We can’t be con-

tent with teaching the same things the same way year after year and expecting im-provement,” she said. “Just like our everyday technol-ogy becomes obsolete with the passing of time, so do our outdated methods of teaching.”

Sullivan suggests im-proving the teaching profes-sion by researching innova-tive strategies that teachers around the world are using

and applying those methods at LJISD.

Sullivan is a member of the La Joya American Fed-eration of Teachers and is the vertical alignment ninth grade team leader.

As district teacher of the year, her message to the public would be a reminder that La Joya ISD staff works unyieldingly to provide the best quality of education, but parents also play a part in the

educational development. “It takes a cooperative

group of great teachers and administrators as well as parents and members of the community to achieve the goals that we set,” Sullivan said. “I believe that together we can see our community grow. I believe that togeth-er we can accomplish won-ders.”

A 15-year-old victim of aggravated kidnap-ping was found in ru-

ral Mission at the 800 block of Ramona Blvd. The female victim was found on May 24 and was being held by Erick Martinez Lopez and Ricardo Mata.

Mata, 36, was arraigned for charges of aggravated kidnapping and was given a $1 million cash surety bond. Mata was committed to the Hidalgo County Adult De-tention Center on My 25.

On May 24, Zapata Coun-ty Sheriff’s Investigators notified the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office that a moth-er received a phone call from a male, requesting a ransom for the release of her daugh-ter. Investigators were told the caller was from the Mis-sion area.

Sheriff’s investigators obtained information that led them to Western Hidalgo County. A traffic stop was conducted on vehicle that had been under surveillance and the driver was identi-fied as Ricardo Mata. Mata implicated himself as the

Kidnapping victim found in Missionperson who call the mother of the victim and requested $300 for the release of her daughter.

Mata then led the investi-gators to the Mission home where the 15 year old was found. Lopez, 37, fled the scene when sheriff’s depu-ties arrived to the location.

The victim said the two men sexually assaulted her, and was taken to a local hospital for a sexual assault exam.

Sheriff’s investigators executed a search warrant at the home where the victim

was found and recovered ev-idence to the crime. The case remains active and the inves-tigation is ongoing.

The county investigations division can be contacted at 956.383.8114. Anonymous calls can be made at the Hi-dalgo County Crime Stop-pers hotline at 668.8477. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through the smart phone app P3 Tips. If the in-formation provided through the crime stoppers program leads to an arrest, the tipster may be eligible for a cash re-ward.

In the Progress Times May 20 issue, the article “Earning diplomas and

degrees” stated that students in the La Joya Independent School District earned cos-metology certificates. The students actually earned their cosmetology licenses.

Progress Times is dedicat-ed to reporting facts and we take full responsibility for our error.

Correction

page 10A May 27, 2016www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

Jesus GaitanMISSION – Jesus Gaitan,

86, passed away on Tuesday, May 24, 2016, at his home.

Mr. Gaitan was born on July 1, 1929, in Mission.

Survivors include his chil-dren, Alicia G. Garza, Juan Antonio Gaitan, Esmeralda G. Ybarra, Jesus Gaitan Jr., Hilda Gaitan, Mariam G. Tijerina and Gabino Gaitan; and 15 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 59 years, Eva G. Gaitan; daughter, Rosalin-da G. Hinojosa; and parents, Anastacio and Maria A. Gai-tan.

A funeral mass will be held on Friday, May 27, at 10 a.m. at Our Lady of Guada-lupe Catholic Church in Mis-sion. Burial follows at San Jose Cemetery in Mission.

Jonnie Sue JamesMISSION – Jonnie Sue

James, 77, passed away on May 18, 2016, at Paxvilla

Hospice in McAllen. Mrs. James moved to

Mission in 1978 and was em-ployed with Jones and Jones for many years managing the Custom Design and Drap-ery Department. She later worked with Proctor and Gamble until her retirement.

Survivors include her husband, Jimmie James of Mission; children, Jamie Campisi, Clifford Powell, Robert Powell, Dillard Hatch and Bruce Hatch; and sev-en grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Dalia Guerra LongoriaMISSION – Dalia Guer-

ra Longoria passed away on Saturday, May 21, 2016.

Ms. Longoria was retired from the Texas Department of Human Services as a pro-gram director.

She was a member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catho-lic Church and sang in the

church choir.Survivors include her chil-

dren Vanessa Celeste Lopez, Dr. Joey Longoria and Vivi-ana Lauren Ortiz; siblings, Irma Guerra, Lydia Borrego, Juan R. Guerra, Irene Marti-nez, Rosaria Saenz and Jorge Guerra; and six grandchil-dren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Juan and Ma-ria Guerra, and a sister, Maria Antonia Saldana.

A funeral mass was held on May 25 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Mission. Burial followed at Valley Memorial Gardens.

Yolanda PerezMISSION – Yolanda

Perez, 65, passed away on Thursday, May 18, 2016, in Mission.

Mrs. Perez was born in Peñitas on Nov. 22, 1950, to Adan Chapa Sr. and Zulema Garza.

Survivors include her husband, Rolando Perez; children, Leticia Vera Leal, Diana Lisa Vera, Rosalinda Perez, Ruby Perez, Rober-

ta Garza, Robin Hernandez, Rudy Perez and Roel Perez; siblings, Homer Chapa, Ma-ria Elena Requenez and Dalia Perez; and 30 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; son, Juan Rolando Vera; and siblings, Diana Maria Cerda, Adan Chapa Jr. and Rodolfo Rodri-guez.

Her remains were cremat-ed.

Juan Rolando VeraMISSION – Juan Rolan-

do Vera, 40, passed away on Thursday, May 18, 2016.

Mr. Vera was born in McAllen on Nov. 27, 1975 to Ane Agustin Vera and Yolan-da Perez.

Survivors include his wife, Melinda Vera; children, Juan Rolando Vera Jr., Jose David Vera, Marco Antonio Vera and Cassandra Marie Vera; his father; siblings, Le-ticia Vera Leal, Diana Lisa Vera and Jorge Avalos Vera; and a grandson.

He was preceded in death by his mother.

His remains were cremated.

Maria D. BuenrostroMISSION – Maria D.

Buenrostro, 56, passed away on Thursday, May 19, 2016. A funeral mass was held on May 23 at San Martin de Por-res Catholic Church in Alton. Burial followed at San Jose Cemetery in Mission.

Clarissa CantuMISSION – Clarissa Can-

tu, 32, passed away on Sun-day, May 20, 2016.

Liborio Treviño CantuMISSION – A funeral ser-

vice for Liborio Treviño Can-tu was held on Monday, May 23, 2016, at Rivera Funeral Home in Mission. Burial followed at Garden of Angels Cemetery in Mission.

Gregorio ChaconMISSION – Gregorio

Chacon, 86, passed away on Sunday, May 22, 2016.

Mikako H. DeckardMISSION – Mikako H.

Deckard, 81, passed away on Thursday, May 19, 2016.

Jorge Luis FloresMISSION – A funeral

mass for Jorge Luis Flores was held on Friday, May 20, 2016, at St. Anthony’s Catho-lic Church in Peñitas. Burial followed at Rio Grande Val-ley State Veterans Cemetery in Mission.

Paula FloresMISSION – Paula Flores,

80, passed away on Monday, May 23, 2016.

Raymundo ParraMISSION – Raymundo

Parra, 87, passed away on Thursday, May 19, 2016.

Armando VelascoMISSION – Armando

Velasco, 90, passed away on Friday, May 20, 2016. A fu-neral mass was held on May 23 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Mission.

obituaries Notices

MEMORIAL DAYfrom pg 1A

PADRES OBLATOSMISSIONARY CATECHIST OF THE POOR: SR. LUPITA

DAUGHTERS OF MARY MOTHER OF MERCY: SR. ELIZABETH, SR. BIBIANA & SR. MADONNA

† DEACON AYALA & DEACON CASTAÑEDA

AS WE GATHER AT THE TABLE OF THE LORD FOR MASS AND AT THE TABLE OF THE HOME AND AT OUR PICNICS AND COOK OUTS, WE PULL OUT TO THE “RAT RACE” AND HE NOURISHES AND INVIGORATES OUR HEARTS

THROUGH EACH OTHER!

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

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

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

THE FATHERS: †FR. JIM, FR. PHILION & FR. ROY

(†MAGNA, †SENTINEL, †MAGNO, †AUGIE,

†DIDYMUS, †CHUNKLY, GIRLY, CANTINA,

VALENTINE, NEWLY, BENDITO & CHARLOTTE)

CORPUS CHRISTI SUNDAY

MASS SCHEDULE

2016

GRADUATION MASS @9AM

throughout the day on May 30. There will be a prayer, 21-gun salute and playing of taps at each gathering.

The schedule is as fol-lows: 8:30 a.m at Laurel Hill Cemetery, 9 a.m. at San Jose Cemetery (Mission), 9:20 a.m. at Catholic Cemetery, 10 a.m. at Granjeno Ceme-tery and 11 a.m. at the State Veterans Cemetery.

Anybody that needs flags for plots can pick them up at Post 93 after 3 p.m. between now and Sunday. The post is located at 910 west Express-way 83.

By Lea Victoria Juarez

City officials for Mis-sion, McAllen and Hidalgo took a tour

of the area where the new Madero Bridge is proposed to be. The international bridge, which is also meant to be a rail bridge, will be utilized for cargo traffic.

The presidential permit for Madero states that it will sit between Conway and In-spiration roads, but Mission City Manager Martin Garza said the area is just slightly west of Conway.

“Besides looking at it on paper and Google maps, Commander Joe Rodriguez from the DPS coordinated the boat rides for the city officials to be able to actual-ly...visualize on the ground what we’ve been seeing on a map,” Garza said.

However, the maps that the engineers have presented are “very preliminary” the city manager said. There are very different locations with-in the presidential permit that

the city officials are looking at when it comes to bridge placement.

The city has six years to start construction on Made-ro. During that time, a num-ber of studies must be exe-cuted before the construction can begin. The studies in-clude feasibility, environ-mental, archaeological and a traffic study. The purpose of the tour was for the engi-neers and city leaders to un-derstand where those areas would be to accommodate those studies.

Throughout the project, McAllen Mayor Jim Darling, Mission Mayor Beto Salinas and Hidalgo Mayor Mar-tin Cepeda will be working closely with Mexican offi-cials to ensure that the stud-ies are done on both sides of the border.

“It looks very positive and we’re on a timeline,” Garza said. “We want to make sure that we expedite the studies quick because those studies take time, and we need to coordinate with Washington (D.C.) and those studies need to coordinate with Mexico.”

In March, the City of

McAllen, City of Hidalgo and City of Mission signed a resolution to move forward with the Madero Bridge, in an effort to reduce the wait time for cargo trucks at the Anzalduas International Bridge. The idea is for the Madero Bridge to be for commercial traffic and the Anzalduas Bridge would be for residential traffic.

City officials take tour of Madero Bridge location

Jacinto Garza of L&G Engineering (left) and Mission City Manager Martin Garza compare the map to the land for the proposed Madero Bridge location.

Photo by Humberto Garcia

May 27, 2016 page 11Awww.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

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page 12A May 27, 2016www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

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NOTICE OF INTENTION TO ISSUECITY OF LA JOYA, TEXAS

CERTIFICATES OF OBLIGATION

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of Commissioners (the Governing Body) of the City of La Joya, Texas (the City) will convene at its regular meeting place in the City Hall, 101 Leo Ave, La Joya, TX 78560, at 6:00 o’clock P.M., on June 21, 2016, and, during such meeting, the Governing Body will consider the passage of an ordinance or ordinances and take such other actions as may be deemed necessary to authorize the issuance of one or more series of certificates of obligation in an aggregate principal amount not to exceed $3,482,000.00 for the purpose or purposes of paying contractual obligations of the City to be incurred for making permanent public improvements and for other public purposes. Funding will be used to pay for the costs relating to a new City Hall facility, to-wit: (1) to acquire real property, improvements and personal property from Plains Capital Bank, which real property and improvements are more particularly described as Lot “A”, QUAIL-HOLLOW ESTATES, an addition to the City of La Joya, Hidalgo County, Texas according to the map or plat thereof recorded in volume 31, Page 179, Map Records, Hidalgo County, Texas; (2) architect fees; (3) construction costs for the improvements to the aforesaid property; and (4) the payment of professional services related to the construction and financing of the aforementioned projects. The certificates of obligation (the Certificates) will be payable from the levy of an annual ad valorem tax, within the limitations prescribed by law, upon all taxable property within the City and from a lien on and pledge of net revenues derived by the City from the operation of the City’s Waterworks and wastewater system. The Certificates are to be issued, and this notice is given, under and pursuant to the provisions of the Certificate of Obligation Act of 1971, as amended, Texas Local Government Code, Section 271.04 through Section 271.065 and Chapter 1502, as amended, Texas Government Code.

_________________________ Julianita R. Sabala City SecretaryCity of La Joya, Texas

THE STATE OF TEXAS

NOTICE TO DEFENDANT: “You have been sued. You may employ an attorney. If you or your attorney do (does) not file a written answer with the clerk who issued to this citation by 10:00 A.M. on the Monday next after the expiration of forty-two (42) days after the date of issuance of this citation and Petition, a default Judgement may be taken against you.”

TO: PAUL H. McCLURE, TRUSTEE OF THE PAUL H. Mc-CLURE REVOCABLE LIVING TRUST DATED MARCH 13, 1995 THE PAUL H. McCLURE REVOCABLE LIVING TRUST DATED MARCH 13, 1995, THE STROBRIDGE LIVING TRUST DATED FEBRUARY 12, 1992, LIONEL W. STROBRIDGE, TRUSTEE OF THE STROBRIDGE LIVING TRUST DATED FEBRUARY 12, 1992 THE STROBRIDGE, LINONEL W. & ARLENE STROBRIDGE LIVING TRUST, ARLENE STROBRIDGE, TRUSTEE OF THE STRO-BRIDGE, LINONEL W. & ARLENE STROBRIDGE LIVING TRUST, ROBERT HOWARD CRAIG, DONALD R. MALLI-COAT and JOE ANN MALLICOAT

GREETINGS:

You are hereby commanded to appear by filing a written answer to the Plaintiff’s Orginal Petition at or before 10:00 o’clock A.M. of the Monday next after the expiration of forty-two (42) days after the date of issuance of this citation the same being the on this the 13th day of May, 2016 before the Honorable Rose G. Reyna, 206th Distirct Court of Hidalgo County, Texas at the Courthouse of said county in Edinburg, Texas. Said PLAINTIFFS ORIGINAL PETITION FOR DECLARATORY JUDGMENT filed in said court on the on this the 1st day of February, 2016 in this case numbered C-0477-16-D on the docket of said court and styled: JAMES KAY, JESSIE KAY VS. PAUL H. MCCLURE, TRUSTEE OF THE PAUL H. MCCLURE REVOCABLE LIVING, TRUST DATED MARCH 13, 1995, THE PAUL H. MCCLURE REVOCABLE, LIVING TRUST DATED MARCH 13, 1995, THE STROBRIDGE LIVING TRUST, DATED FEBRUARY 12, 1992, LIONEL W. STROBRIDGE, TRUSTEE OF THE STROBRIDGE LIVING TRUST, DATED FEBRUARY 12, 1992, ARLENE H. STROBRIDGE, TRUSTEE OF THE STROBRIDGE, LINONEL W. & ARLENE STROBRIDGE LIVING TRUST ARLENE STROBRIDGE, TRUSTEE OF THE STROBRIDGE, LINONEL W. & ARLENE STROBRIDGE LIVING TRUST ROBERT HOWARD CRAIG DONALD R. MALLICOAT AND JOE ANN MALLICOAT.

Said petition was filed in said court by: Attorney DARRELL DAVIS, 301 E. TOM LANDRY ST., MISSION, TX 78572. (956) 585-0628.

A brief nature of the suit is as follows: PLAINTIFF(S) SEEK DECLARATORY JUDGMENT THAT PLAINTIFFS ARE OWNERS OF LOT 154 AND 155, BLOCK 4, LAMPLIGHT M/H SUBDIVISION, HIDALGO COUNTY, TEXAS.

The officer executing this writ shall promptly serve the same according to requirements of law, and the mandates thereof, and make due return as the law directs.

ISSUED AND GIVEN UNDER MY HAND AND SEAL of said Court at Edinburg, Texas this on this the 13th day of May, 2016.

STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA ) IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS ) FOR THE NINTH JUDICIAL CIRCUITCOUNTY OF CHARLESTON ) CASE NO. 2016-CP-10-10-1772 OCA:2015-017537BCharleston County Sheriff’s Office, ) Plaintiff, ) ) v. ) SUMMONS ) Nine Thounsand Five Hundred and )00/100 ($9,500.00) Dollars in United )States Currency. ) ) Defendants. ) ______________________________ )

TO: MR. MARTINEZ: 1803 Toni Lane, Mission, Texas 78572 YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED, and required to answer the complaint, a copy of which is served upon you and to serve a copy of your answer within thirty (30) days after the servie hereof, exclusive of the day of such service, and if you fail to answer the complaint within the time, judgement by defaulf will be rendered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint.

CHARLESTON COUNTY SHERRIF’S OFFICE

___________________________________________ JOHANNA S. GARDNER, Assistant County Attorney Charleston County attorney’s offiCe

Lonnie Hamilton, III Public Services Building 4045 Bridge View DriveCharleston, South Carolina North Chalreston, South Carolina, 29405 (843) 958-4010March 22, 2016 ATTORNEY FOR PAINTIFF

CAUSE NO. F-2661-16-2

IN THE INTEREST OF GISELLE MORENO RANGEL, ET. AL CHILD(REN)

THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO: VICTOR ALFONZO MORENO and All Whom it May Concern, Respondents; GREETING:

NOTICE TO THE RESPONDENT: YOU HAVE BEEN SUED. “You may employ an attorney. If you or your attorney do not file a written answer with the clerk who issued this citation by 10:00 o’clock a.m. on the Monday next following the expiration of twenty (20) days after your were served this citation and petition, a default judgment may be taken against you.”

The petition of MARIA G. RANGEL, Petitioner, was filed in the District County Court at Law #2 of Hidalgo County, Texas, on this the 2nd day of May, 2016, against VICTOR ALFONZO MORENO, Respondent, case numbered F-2661-16-2 and entitled IN THE INTEREST OF GISELLE VICTORIA MORENO RANGEL AND ISABELLE MORENO RANGEL, CHILDREN. The suit requests Petition Affecting Parent-Child Relationship as is more fully shown by Petition on file in this suit.

The date and place of birth of the child/children who is/are the subject of the suit is/are:Name of Child(ren): Date of Birth: Place of Birth:Giselle Victoria Moreno September 14, 2011 Modesto, Rangel; CaliforniaIsabelle Moreno Rangel February 12, 2013 Edinburg, Texas “The Court has authority in this suit to render an order in the child’s (children’s) interest that will be binding on you, including the termination of the Parent-child Relationship, the dertermination of paternity, and the appointment of a conservator with authority to consent to the child’s (children’s) adoption.”

Said petition was filed in said court by attorney FELIX RAMOS whose address is 425 NOLANA, SUITE E, MCALLEN, TEXAS 78504. Phone #956-630-6046

ISSUED AND GIVEN UNDER MY HAND AND SEAL of said Court at Edinburg, Texas this on this the 12th day of May, 2016.

The Mission Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a Regular Meeting on June 8, 2016 at 5:00 p.m. at the City Hall Council Chambers, 1201 East 8th Street, Mission, Texas in order to consider the following:

Rezoning: Lots 5 & 6, Block 180, Mission Original Townsite Subdivision, from R-1 (Single Family Residential) to R-2 (Duplex-Fourplex Residential); and Rezoning: A tract of land containing 0.337 of one acre, and also being all of Lot 1, Block 1, Highland Park Addition, from R-1 (Single Family Residential) to R-1T (Townhouse Residential)

If a zoning is amended during the public hearing, it shall be pursuant to the City of Mission’s Amendatory Zone Policy Statement. Anyone interested is invited to attend. Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

PUBLIC NOTICE

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MISSION, TEXAS GRANTING A REZONING OF LOT 5, ALEX CAVAZOS SUBDIVISION, AO-I (AGRICULTURAL OPEN INTERIM) TO C-3 (GENERAL COMMERCIAL)

READ, CONSIDERED AND PASSED, THIS THE 23RD DAY OF MAY, 2016.

Norberto Salinas, MayorAttest: Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

ORDINANCE NO. 4351

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MISSION, TEXAS GRANTING A REZONING OF LOTS 1, 2, AND A PORTION OF 3, 4, AND 5, OF BLOCK 1, DEL MONTE ORCHARDS COMPANY SUBDIVISION, FROM AO-I (AGRICULTURAL OPEN INTERIM)

TO C-3 (GENERAL BUSINESS)READ, CONSIDERED AND PASSED, THIS THE 23RD DAY OF MAY, 2016.

Norberto Salinas, MayorAttest: Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

ORDINANCE NO. 4352

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MISSION, TEXAS GRANTING A REZONING OF LOT 5, BLOCK 243, MISSION ORIGINAL TOWNSITE SUBDIVISION, FROM C-3 (GENERAL BUSINESS) TO R-2 (DUPLEX-

FOURPLEX RESIDENTIAL)READ, CONSIDERED AND PASSED, THIS THE 23RD DAY OF MAY, 2016.

Norberto Salinas, MayorAttest: Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

ORDINANCE NO. 4353

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MISSION, TEXAS GRANTING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR THE SALE & ON-SITE CONSUMPTION OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES – LOUNGE & PRO SHOP AT MEADOW CREEK, 1300 CIRCLE DRIVE, BEING 5.17 ACRES OUT OF BLOCK C1, MEADOW CREEK COUNTRY CLUB

PHASE IAREAD, CONSIDERED AND PASSED, THIS THE 23RD DAY OF MAY, 2016.

Norberto Salinas, MayorAttest: Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

ORDINANCE NO. 4354

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MISSION, TEXAS GRANTING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR THE SALE & ON-SITE CONSUMPTION OF

ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES – LA NAHUALA RESTAURANT, 205 N. SHARY ROAD, STE. D,

LOT 1, SOUTH SHARY COMMERCIAL SUBDIVISION

READ, CONSIDERED AND PASSED, THIS THE 23RD DAY OF MAY, 2016.

Norberto Salinas, MayorAttest: Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

ORDINANCE NO. 4355

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MISSION, TEXAS AMENDING ORDINANCE NO.780 DESIGNATING PLACES WHERE BEER AND OTHER ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES MAY BE SOLD WITHIN THE CORPORATE LIMITS OF THE CITY OF MISSION TO INCLUDE THE PREMISES LOCATED AT 205 N. SHARY ROAD,

STE. D, LOT 1, SOUTH SHARY COMMERCIAL SUBDIVISION

READ, CONSIDERED AND PASSED, THIS THE 23RD DAY OF MAY, 2016.

Norberto Salinas, MayorAttest: Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

ORDINANCE NO. 4356

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MISSION, TEXAS GRANTING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR A BED & BREAKFAST AND AN EVENT CENTER, 1113 E. MILE 2 ROAD, BEING A 1.01 ACRE TRACT OF LAND OUT OF LOT 29-10, WEST ADDITION

TO SHARYLAND SUBDIVISIONREAD, CONSIDERED AND PASSED, THIS THE 23RD DAY OF MAY, 2016.

Norberto Salinas, MayorAttest: Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

ORDINANCE NO. 4357

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MISSION, TEXAS GRANTING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR A SINGLE FAMILY DWELLING WIHTIN PROPERTY ZONED MOBILE HOME & MODULAR DISTRICT, 2124 PLEASANT LANE, BEING LOT 7 S. & LOT 7, KINGS MOBILE HOME PARK (U/R), (AKA THE S. ½ OF A TRACT OUT OF A CANAL RIGHT-OF-WAY ADJACENT TO LOT 31, SHARYLAND

ORCHARDS)READ, CONSIDERED AND PASSED, THIS THE 23RD DAY OF MAY, 2016.

Norberto Salinas, MayorAttest: Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

ORDINANCE NO. 4358

AN ORDINANCE DENYING THE PROPOSED CHANGE IN RATES OF SHARYLAND UTILITIES, L.P., FINDING AND DETERMINING THAT THE MEETING AT WHICH THIS ORDINANCE IS PASSED IS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC AS REQUIRED BY LAW, AND DECLARING AN EFFECTIVE

DATE OF THIS ORDINANCEREAD, CONSIDERED AND PASSED, THIS THE 23RD DAY OF MAY, 2016.

Norberto Salinas, MayorAttest: Anna Carrillo, City Secretary

ORDINANCE NO. 4359

F L O O R I N G SERVICE BY Un-cle Frank, laminate carpet, tile, vinyl, etc. sales and service, 956-533-9800.

QUALITY COM-PUTER & NET-WORK repair, per-sonal or businesses, PCʼs, Macʼs, Lap-tops, call Angel 956-445-3924.

May 27, 2016 page 13Awww.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

By Gail Fagan

RIO GRANDE VAL-LEY – The University of Texas Rio Grande

Valley is now accepting ap-plications for its new Master of Arts in Disaster Studies program, which will be of-fered at the university for the first time in fall 2016.

The 36-hour program has a thesis and a non-thesis option and will provide stu-dents with formal training in a transdisciplinary and multicultural approach to the study and management of di-sasters.

The classes, offered on both the Edinburg and Brownsville campuses and online, will include social and natural sciences, gov-ernment and public admin-istration, humanities and Geographic Information Systems.

“Graduates will acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to manage the hu-man dimensions, like warn-ing response and intergov-ernmental coordination, as well as the physical dimen-sions, such as flood surge engineering, of common hazards like severe weather, major floods and chemical accidents,” said Dr. William Donner, sociology program coordinator who, along with Dr. Walter Diaz, dean of the College of Liberal Arts, oversaw development of this master’s program.

Students also will take core courses in research methods and statistics.

“These skills are neces-sary to provide data in sup-port of decision-making, and are critical to public safety planning initiatives,” said Donner, whose research ex-pertise includes disasters and statistics.

Donner and Diaz said there currently is a high de-mand for emergency man-agement practitioners at the

state and local levels and, according to the Texas Work-force Commission, there will be a projected 20 percent growth in disaster/emergen-cy management employment opportunities through 2020.

“Graduates from the pro-gram can fill a wide range of career opportunities as emergency management spe-cialists, homeland security officers, hospital emergency preparedness administra-tors, public health planners, communication officers and emergency response techni-cians,” Donner said. “If you are planning to do teaching and research, there is a the-sis option in which you focus more on scholarship. It is a very flexible degree pro-gram.”

Diaz said that, with the South Texas region’s concen-trated Hispanic population, poverty and climatological hazards, such as hurricanes and flooding, there are few institutions in the United States housed in an area with a population that suffers the

degree of vulnerability as the Rio Grande Valley.

“If we can train emergen-cy managers who can deal with populations that face that degree of vulnerability, there are two benefits,” Diaz said. “One, they can help the populations here immediate-ly. And, they can go off into other areas with those kinds of tools, understanding why populations are vulnerable, why they respond the way they do, and help those folks out as well.”

Degree requirements to enter the program are a B.A. or B.S. in any major. GRE and TOEFL exam results are required. The deadline to ap-ply is July 1.

For more information on the program, Edinburg stu-dents should contact Donner at William.donner@utrgv.edu. Brownsville students should contact Dr. Dawid Wladlyka, lecturer in the De-partment of Sociology and Anthropology, at dawid.wla-dyka@utrgv.edu.

page 14A May 27, 2016www.ptrgv.com | www.strgv.com

The Government Fi-nance Officers Asso-ciation of the United

States and Canada (GFOA) announced that City of Al-ton has received the GFOA’s Distinguished Budget Pre-sentation Award.

The award reflects the commitment of the govern-ing body and staff to meet-ing the highest principles of governmental budgeting. In order to receive the budget award, the entity had to sat-isfy nationally recognized guidelines for effective budget presentation. These guidelines are designed to assess how well an entity’s budget serves as a policy, document, a financial plan, an operations guide, a com-munications device.

Budget documents must be rated “proficient” in all four categories, and the 14 mandatory criteria within those categories, to receive the award.

When a Distinguished Budget Presentation Award is granted to an entity, a cer-tificate of recognition for budget presentation is also presented to the individual or department designated as

being primarily responsible for its having achieved the award. This award was pre-sented to Finance Depart-ment, Finance Director Ros-ie Tello.

Although she was the award’s recipient, Tello was quick to point out that the budget preparation process is very much a team effort.

“Each department head prepares annual goals and outlooks which are a big part of the process,” she said.

The Alton City Commis-sion also just accepted the annual fiscal audit report. It showed continuing improve-ment in the city’s finances.

“We should achieve our fund balance goals (90 days of reserves) by the end of the current fiscal year,” Tello said.

This has been challenging in light of Alton’s dramatic growth, which has seen the population go from 4,381 in 2000 to 15,497, according to the July, 2014 estimate of the U.S. Census.

The city has also made a concerted effort to lower its property tax rate each of the last eight years, making its rate of 45.40 cents one of the

lowest in the county. Adher-ence to a well-prepared bud-get has been key to Alton’s efforts.

For budgets beginning in 2014, 1,491 participants received the Award. Award recipients have pioneered efforts to improve the quali-ty of budgeting and provide an excellent example for oth-er govemments throughout North America.

The Government Finance Officers Association is a ma-jor professional association servicing the needs of 18,300 appointed and elected local, state, and provincial-level government officials and oth-er financial practitioners. It provides top quality publica-tions, training programs, ser-vices, and products designed to enhance the skills and per-fmmance of those responsi-ble for government finance policy and management. The association is headqumtered in Chicago, Illinois, with offices in Washington D.C. The GFOA’s Distinguished Budget Presentation Awards Program is the only national awards program in govern-mental budgeting.

City of Alton receives international award

Mission residents arraigned for drug bustThree law enforcement agencies combined efforts for a

drug bust on South Shary Road. Juanita Malca, 33, and El-roy Herrera, 42, were taken into custody. Authorities found a kilo of cocaine, a small amount of marijuana, an ounce of unknown powdery substance and various drug materials.

Mission CISD to purchase property on south Holland The Mission School Board authorized the purchase of

a parcel of property from the Sascon Corporation that will be utilized for transportation facilities and the possible lo-cation of an alternative school.

San Diego drops Sharyland from baseball playoffs The Sharyland Rattlers were eliminated in the first

round of state baseball playoffs by a one-hitter. The 31-3A champion San Diego Vaqueros beat the Rattlers 6-0.

Sharyland finished second to Hidalgo in 32-3A with an 11-14 record.

UTRGV offers new master’s degree in Disaster Studies

AUSTIN – The Tex-as Department of Transportation is

reminding the public to “Click It or Ticket,” be-cause seat belts save lives.

“With Memorial Day weekend and the summer vacation season approach-ing, we’re urging people to buckle their seat belts every time they get in their vehicle,” said James Bass, TxDOT executive director. “Every person in a vehicle – front seat or back seat – needs to buckle up. Not only is it the law, but seat belts save lives.”

Last year in Texas, 2,370 vehicle crashes involving unrestrained occupants

resulted in 889 fatalities and 1,854 serious injuries. Wearing a seat belt helps keep occupants from be-ing ejected in a crash and increases the chances of surviving by 45 percent. In pickup trucks, that num-ber jumps to 60 percent, as those vehicles are twice as likely as cars to roll over in a crash.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administra-tion estimates that since its inception, the “Click It or Ticket” campaign in Texas has resulted in 4,687 fewer traffic fatalities while pre-venting 79,578 serious inju-ries. When the “Click It or Ticket” campaign launched

in 2002, only 76 percent of Texans used their seat belts. Today, nine out of 10 Tex-ans buckle up.

Along with TxDOT’s annual, statewide “Click It or Ticket” campaign and awareness tour, police de-partments across the nation will step up enforcement efforts through June 5. In Texas, the law requires ev-eryone in a vehicle to buck-le up or face fines and court costs up to $200. Children younger than 8 years old must be in a child safety seat or booster seat unless they’re taller than 4 feet 9 inches.

Law enforcement cracks down on unbuckled drivers