by Legislative Media | Dec 30, 2011 | Politics
An eight-story, 254,000 square foot new courthouse, featured here in this preliminary draft rendition by ERO Architects of McAllen, could become a major county and city landmark in downtown Edinburg. Prompted by serious overcrowding issues facing the existing Hidalgo County Courthouse, a 30-member advisory committee, appointed several months ago by the Hidalgo County Commissioners Court, has been charged with contributing their vision for an ideal courthouse facility that would encompass the current needs and projected growth anticipated in the next 10 years, as well as take into consideration all fundamental and desired elements of design, structure and function. ERO Architects is preparing a comprehensive review and analysis of what to do with the existing, almost 60-year-old Hidalgo County Courthouse, which would remain in use. The Hidalgo County Courthouse Master Plan Committee is scheduled to hold its next public meeting on Wednesday, January 18, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the International Trade and Technology Building at the University of Texas-Pan American. The work of the committee, including historical background, general project documents, and photographs, is available free and online to the public by logging on at: https://sites.google.com/site/hcchmasterplan/
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Rep. Sergio Muñoz, Jr., D-Mission, featured front row, fourth from right, on Wednesday, December 21, was joined by area elected leaders and other constituents from his House District 36 for the official grand opening of his legislative district office, located at 121 E. Tom Landry in Mission. The ribbon-cutting ceremony doubled as an open house for the office, which has been open to the public since mid-January 2011. Among the dignitaries joining Muñoz were, to his right: Mission Mayor Norberto Salinas; and to his left: Mission Mayor Pro Tem Leo Olivarez, Sr.; Mission Councilman Rubén Plata; and Mission Councilwoman Norie González Garza. Muñoz believes the next legislative session, which begins in January 2013, should have a balanced approach to tackle key issues related to jobs, education and health care, and work together to provide a better future for communities and families. More information on Muñoz is available on his legislative website: http://www.house.state.tx.us/members/member-page/?district=36
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South Texas College has partnered with two Mid-Valley manufacturing companies to provide job training using a $234,629 Skills Development Fund Grant from the Texas Workforce Commission. The business partners include Rio Grande Container Inc. and Wood Crafters Home Products, L.L.C. “This is a great day for Weslaco and STC. The college is committed to creating jobs, economic development, and one of the strategic directions of the college is to serve as the catalyst for regional economic prosperity and social mobility,” STC President Shirley A. Reed said. “That means bringing jobs to the Mid-Valley and helping you be prepared to take advantage of those jobs so that you can really earn a good living for you and your family. That’s really what South Texas College is all about.” Featured at the check presentation, first row, from left: Rep. Armando “Mando” Martínez, D-Weslaco; Ronald Congleton, TWC Commissioner Representing Labor; Weslaco Mayor Miguel Wise; STC President Shirley A. Reed; and Samuel Lugo, WoodCrafters Executive Vice President of Finance. Back row, from left: Wanda F. Garza, Executive Officer for North American Advanced Manufacturing Research and Education Initiative (NAAMREI); Jesse Villarreal, Member, South Texas College Board of Trustees; Monte Churchill, Campus Coordinator, STC Mid-Valley Campus in Weslaco; Teresa Rodríguez, WoodCrafters Corporate Social Responsibility Manager; and Gary Gurwitz, President, Board of Trustees, South Texas College. See story later in this posting.
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Valley veterans on Thursday, December 22, met in Harlingen with Lawrence A. Biro, Network Director of the Heart of Texas Health Care Network, and Danna Malone, Interim Director of the VA Texas Valley Coastal Bend Health Care System, for updates on federal legislation designed to secure funding for an inpatient VA Hospital for deep South Texas. “Many South Texas veterans were hoping for good news on the Veterans Administration Hospital issue. No luck,” reported Arturo “Treto” Garza, one of the veterans who participated in the gathering. “However, we did get straight talk from Biro.” Biro, as network director of the VA Heart of Texas Health Services, manages the local VA Texas Valley Coastal Bend Health System Services (VATVCBHS). As such, he is overseeing the expansion of the surgical center in Harlingen. Featured, from left: Lawrence A. Biro; Danna Malone; Arturo “Treto” Garza; Joe Ibarra; Pete Prax Garza; and Rubén Cantú. Garza, a columnist for http://www.Rio Grande Guardian.com, offers more details on the December 22 session later in this posting.
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Leti Nava, featured second from left, recently collected a $16,000 check in lieu of a 2011 vehicle as her grand prize during a recent raffle sponsored by the Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. In addition, the Edinburg Children’s Hospital Foundation and the Vannie Cook Cancer center each received a $1,000 donation from proceeds from the local chamber’s Fall Raffle. Profits generated from the event will help with the new Program of Work that the RGVHCC has planned for 2012. More workshops to assist small and women-owned businesses are scheduled as well as health, education and cultural events. Additional information on the RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce may be obtained by calling their office at 956/928-0060 or by visiting their website at http://www.rgvhcc.com. Present for the check presentation are, from left: Ronnie Bernal, RGVHCC Vice Chair of Small Business and Economic Development and chairman of the Fall Raffle; Leti Nava, Fall Raffle grand prize winner; Ray Cantú, accepting for Vannie Cook Cancer Center; Cynthia M. Sakulenzki, president and chief executive officer, RGVHCC; and Iván Quiñonez, accepting for Edinburg Children’s Hospital Foundation.
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Regal Beloit Corporation (Regal Beloit) of McAllen recently received the Employer Award of Excellence for the Texas Workforce Solutions (TWS), Lower Rio area, which includes Hidalgo, Starr, and Willacy counties, during the Texas Workforce Commission’s 15th Annual Texas Workforce Conference. The Employer Award of Excellence honors employers that are actively involved with their local workforce board and have made a positive impact on employers, workers and the community. Regal Beloit is a global manufacturing company with an advanced manufacturing facility that specializes in die casting and metal stamping of rotors and stators for electric motors. Featured, front row, from left: Mike Willis, Executive Director, South Texas Manufacturers Association; Yvonne “Bonnie” González, Chief Executive Officer, TWS; Lupita Almasri, Human Resources Manager, Regal Beloit; Elsa de Alba, Plant Manager, Regal Beloit; and Dalinda Guillen, Chair, Board of Directors, TWS. Back row, from left: Edna Posada, Member Representing the Private Sector, TWS; Noel Benavides; Board Member Representing Adult Basic Education, TWS; Dr. Ida H. Acuña-Garza, Board Member Representing Adult Basic Education, TWS; Aurelio “Keter” Guerra, Board Member Representing Public Assistance, TWS; and Irma Hulen, Board Member Representing the Private Sector, TWS. Texas Workforce Solutions (TWS) comprises the Texas Workforce Commission, a statewide network of 28 Workforce Development Boards for regional planning and service delivery, their contracted service providers and community partners, and the Texas Workforce Commission unemployment benefits tele-centers. This network gives customers local access to workforce solutions and statewide services at numerous TWS offices and six tele-centers. See story later in this posting.
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Some of the latest works of area artist Paul Valadez from his In the Age of Mascots efforts will be on display in Edinburg on Friday, January 13, as part of January’s Jardín del Arte, sponsored by the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation – the jobs creation arm of the Edinburg City Council – and The City of Edinburg’s Cultural Activities Board. Valadez, who is a full-time lecturer in the Art Department at the University of Texas-Pan American, will be joined by Kim Snyder of Keytar Dreamz, plus a dance performance by Dancer’s Creative Motion, an organization at UTPA. The January 13 gathering, which is free and open to the public, will be held from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. in the City Hall Courtyard, 415 W. University. Food and beverages will be sold by participating Edinburg restaurants such as El Jinete, Corina’s Tea Room, La Pesca, and La Cocinita. They will feature tamales and hot chocolate, fajita tacos, shrimp cocktails, and much more. See story later in this posting.
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Douglas A. Matney, group president for South Texas Health System based in Edinburg, has been re-elected to the Texas Hospital Association’?s Board of Trustees, effective Sunday, January 1. This will be his second three-year term. Matney, who has more than three decades of health care experience, has been in his current position since 2007. He previously served as chief executive officer of Del Sol Medical Center in El Paso. In addition to previously serving on the THA Board of Trustees, Matney served on THA?’s Council on Policy Development. A member of the American College of Healthcare Executives, he received the Senior Level Healthcare Executive Regent?s Award in 2004. Matney earned a bachelor?s degree in health systems from the Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta. He also attended the University of Florida in
Gainesville where he earned a master?s degree in health science and a master?s degree in business administration.
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Nelda T. Ramírez, an 11-year-veteran with the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation, on Thursday, December 15, was unanimously selected by the EEDC’s governing board to serve as its Executive Director, which will allow her to continue leading that key entity for the next three years. The EEDC is the jobs-creation arm of the Edinburg City Council. Ramírez is featured here following the EEDC board action with Mayor Richard García (left) and Jaime A. Rodríguez, the newest member of the EEDC Board of Directors. She pledged that her performance would continue at the highest levels. “We will continue the momentum with all the projects we have on the table right now,” Ramírez said. “We are hoping to see a lot more announcements in the next year to come, and a lot of big projects that will not only benefit the city, both economically and strategically, but continue to feature Edinburg on the map.” Her selection was unanimously approved by the EEDC governing board, which in addition to the mayor – who serves as president of the EEDC Board of Directors – and Rodríguez, includes Dr. Glenn Martínez as Vice-President, Fred Palacios as Secretary-Treasurer, and Felipe García, Member.
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by Legislative Media | Dec 16, 2011 | Politics
Dolly Elizondo-García, featured center, the chair of the Hidalgo County Democratic Party, on Monday, November 28, posed with some of the first candidates who showed up to file for various political offices, ranging from justice of the peace and sheriff to state representative and U.S. representative. The gathering, held at Koko’s Uptown Restaurant in McAllen, came shortly before the U.S. Supreme Court agreed to hear a challenge by Attorney General Greg Abbott, a Republican, against the November 25 actions of a three-judge federal court in San Antonio. That court drew the boundaries for all of Texas’ state representative, state senate, and congressional maps after Democrats and Hispanics sued the state, alleging that the congressional and state legislative districts approved last spring by the Republican-controlled Texas Legislature discriminates against Mexican Americans. Abbott contends the Legislature did not discriminate against minorities. The U.S. Supreme Court is set to hear both sides on January 9. Featured, from left, are: Jane Cross of Edinburg; T.C. Betancourt of Edinburg; Letty García of Edinburg; Dolly Elizondo-García; Geovani Hernández of Weslaco; Nereyda Morales-Martínez of Mission; Paul Villarreal; and Miriam Martínez of Edinburg.
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Rep. Sergio Muñoz Jr., D-Mission, on Monday, November 28, is congratulated by Dolly Elizondo-García, chair of the Hidalgo County Democratic Party, after he filed for a second term as state legislator for House District 36. Under a recent plan approved by a three-judge federal court in San Antonio, House District 36 includes all or part of the cities of Pharr, McAllen, Mission, Hidalgo, Palmview and Granjeno. However, Attorney General Greg Abbott, a Republican, has challenged the action of that federal court – which drew up the boundaries of all House and Senate seats, and congressional districts – and the U.S. Supreme Court is scheduled to hear Abbott’s challenge on January 9. Muñoz and Elizondo-García finalized his paperwork during a Democratic Party campaign kick-off held at Koko’s Uptown Restaurant in McAllen. See story later in this posting.
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Rep. Aaron Peña, R-Edinburg, posing outside Edinburg City Hall, has announced he will not seek reelection to a sixth term as state representative for House District 40. “I have had the honor of working with national and international business leaders and local and state officials to bring much needed jobs to our community,” said Peña. “I have been woken in the middle of the night by parents of drug addicted youths at their wits’ end. Great gestures come from grand designs, multi-billion dollar enterprises that traverse continents and create jobs and wealth but they also come from kind words and extending a helping hand to someone in need.” With the veteran lawmaker’s retirement, a number of area Democrats are vying to succeed him in the Texas Legislature by competing for their party’s nomination in 2012. In a column he authored which explains his decision, Peña talks about the strains and successes of his legislative career. “My wife and children allowed me the luxury of working full-time, seven days a week at a job that pays $7,200 a year,” Peña reflected. “To (wife) Mónica, Adrienne, Aaron, Alyssa, Anthony and John, thank you. I am so grateful for the opportunity that I was given to serve the community I love so much.” See story later in this posting.
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Elva Jackson Garza, joined by her husband, Fred R. Garza, and their son, Fred A. Garza, on Saturday, October 15, was named 2011 Woman of the Year by the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce, for her service to the community and the organization since 1983. “I am very honored to have been nominated and selected as the 2011 Woman of the Year. As a volunteer, I serve because it has always been important for me to make a small difference in my beloved Rio Grande Valley,” said Garza. “I have met so many wonderful people along the way, and they have enriched my life immensely.” She currently represents Edwards Abstract and Title Co. as Vice President and Marketing Manager. She represents the company as an Affiliate Member of the Greater McAllen Association of Realtors, Rio Grande Valley Builders Association, Edinburg Realtors Committee, Weslaco Realtors Committee, Women’s Council of Realtors, Hidalgo County Bar Association, and is a member of the Texas Land Title Association. See story later in this posting.
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The former presidents and chairs of the Board of Directors of the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce recently reunited at the historic Edinburg Depot for updates on major economic development projects underway in the city. Letty González, president of the local chamber, also provided progress reports on other local initiatives, such as fundraising efforts for the restoration and maintenance of the former train depot, which houses the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce, the Edinburg Convention and Visitors Bureau, and the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation. The EEDC is the jobs-creation arm of the Edinburg City Council. One of the recent improvements to the Edinburg Depot involved the back patio, which was upgraded with tiled floors, patio furniture, and a Spanish colonial style fountain, staying true to the building’s historical features. The former presidents and their respective terms of office are featured, seated, from left: Cynthia Bocanegra (2009-2010); Elva Jackson Garza (1999-2000); Edna Peña, 2011-2012 Chairman of the Board; Cris M. Torres, (2007-2008) and Letty González, chamber president. Standing, from left: Johnny Rodríguez, the immediate past chair (2010-2011); Ted Miller, Jr. (1991-1992); Byron Jay Lewis (1993-1994); Harry Roberts (1956-1957); Mitch Roberts (1997-1998); Mike Govind (2002-2003 and 2003-2004 ) and Dr. Larry N. Balli (1998-1999).
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The Edinburg Economic Development Corporation, which is the jobs-creation arm of the Edinburg City Council, on Thursday, December 15, hosted the Santana Textiles Job Fair – the second such hiring phase this year. The international denim-manufacturing firm, which will invest up to $170 million for its complex in the Edinburg North Industrial Park, plans to fill 40 positions in this latest hiring phase, which took place at the Edinburg Depot, 602 West University Drive. Santana Textiles is looking for energetic, self motivated, and safety oriented individuals for entry level industrial maintenance technicians to highly experienced maintenance technicians. Duties will vary based on job description from basic knowledge of hand and power tools to experienced technicians with knowledge of electronics, PLC, automation, and testing equipment. “We are focusing on hiring individuals in the positions of maintenance electricians, maintenance mechanics, maintenance helpers, accounting manager, human resource coordinator, and safety technician,” said Lori A. Garza, Human Resource Manager for Santana Textiles. More information on the job vacancies are available for interested applicants by e-mailing their inquiries to [email protected]. Featured promoting the event are, from left: Cynthia Guerrero, Human Resource Coordinator with Santana Textiles; Letty Reyes, Project Manager with the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation; and Lori A. Garza. Santana Textiles plans to hire 800 employees once construction of its complex, currently underway, is completed by 2016.
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On Tuesday, November 15, the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation – which is the jobs-creation arm of the Edinburg City Council – announced the selection of Evana Vleck, the now former and effective marketing director with the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce, as the city’s first-ever Downtown Development/Arts Coordinator. The arts – generally broken down into the more familiar categories as visual arts (paintings, sculptures, photography) and performing arts (dance, drama, music) – symbolize more than cultural and intellectual treasures for Edinburg. The arts can and do represent prosperity for any community willing and able to elevate them into a powerful engine to boost their local economy. “It is very important. It is the next level in our evolvement as a city,” says Mayor Richard García, who successfully lobbied the Edinburg City Council and the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation (EEDC) Board of Directors to authorize the creation and funding of the Downtown Development/Arts Coordinator position. See story later in this posting.
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During the fall 2011 semester, South Texas College was one of only four community colleges from across the state to receive special recognition from the Texas Association of Business. The award was presented in Austin to applaud the college’s efforts to increase its graduation rate, as well as help students progress through the higher education system in a timely manner. “We hear a lot about the colleges that aren’t pushing students to succeed, pushing them to get a degree,” said Bill Hammond, president and CEO of the Texas Association of Business. “STC is one of four community colleges that are getting it right. Each of the honorees has shown significant improvement in the number of students completing degree plans and improvements in student achievement.” STC was honored in the very large community college category, along with Howard Community College in the small category, Paris Junior College in the medium category, and Blinn College in the large category. Featured showcasing the award are, from left: Mario Reyna, Dean of Business and Technology for South Texas College; Dr. Shirley A. Reed, STC president; and Juan E. Mejia, STC Vice President for Academic Affairs. See story later in this posting.
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Area residents are being asked to submit their nominations to recognize some of the best medical professionals in the region. The Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce has set a Friday, January 6 deadline to receive nominations for the following categories: Best Physician; Specialty Physician; Nurse; Nurse Practioner; Hospital; Nursing Home; Physician’s Assistant; and Volunteer. Individuals and institutions nominated must meet strict standards, based on providing their patients with the highest quality of care, be involved in local community affairs that improve the quality of life, be Board Certified in their respective fields, been in practice or existence for at least five years, and be in good standing before their professional licensing authorities. The Volunteer of the Year is a new category, and seeks nominees who have gone above and beyond their positions/duties as volunteers. For more details and to obtain a nomination form, please contact the RGVHCC at 928-0060. Featured promoting the nomination process, which will culminate in the Medical Awards Banquet on Thursday, January 26, are RGVHCC board members Marti Miller, Yoli González, and Ronnie Bernal, along with Cynthia M. Sakulenzki, RGVHCC president and CEO.
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James Ulatowski, a faculty member at Johnny G. Economedes High School, was recently recognized by the Edinburg CISD Board of Trustees for his selection as the Hispanic, Engineering, Science, and Technology (HESTEC) Math Teacher of the Year. HESTEC takes place annually during the last week of September at the University of Texas-Pan American. HESTEC is an innovative program that promotes the importance of science literacy to thousands of students, their parents and teachers. Ulatowski’s innovative and effective teaching style has made him an inspirational leader of students and colleagues, said Gloria Rivera, JEHS principal. “He comes to Edinburg and Economedes High School from a distinguished career in upper management in the private sector where innovation is not just encouraged, it is expected from top to bottom,” Rivera said. “His dedication and service as a high school math teacher highlight his desire to pass along his knowledge and innovative spirit to future generations of our educational community.” Featured, front row from left: Ciro Treviño, Board Secretary; James Ulatowski; Carmen González, Board President; and Dr. René Gutiérrez, Superintendent of Schools. Back row, from left: Robert Peña, Jr., Dr. Martín Castillo, and David Torres, Board Members; and Juan “Sonny” Palacios, Board Vice-President.
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The Hidalgo County District Clerk Office on Thursday, December 8, presented a check totaling $3,500 to the Comfort House of McAllen as part of their Blues for Bucks Workplace Fundraising Campaign, a program benefiting local charitable organizations. The Comfort House is a 10-bed homelike residence for persons in terminal stages of illness, generally admitted when they no longer seek a medical cure and have a life expectancy of less than four months. They welcome persons regardless of race, faith, persuasion or economic status. Hidalgo County District Clerk Laura Hinojosa, featured seated, center, was joined by her staff members, and by Mary Botello, Comfort House Administrator (second from right), for the presentation of the donation. District clerk staff members joining Hinojosa and Botello for the presentation were:Mary Alonzo; María Barrera; Norma Cantú; Irene Caceres; Omar Escamilla; Alfonso Fuentes;Alessandra Galván; Ángela García; Yolanda Garza; Alexandra Gómez; Erica Gómez; Virginia Granados; Andrëa Guajardo; Alicia Guerrero; Yanira Hernández; Irma López; Yuvia Maldonado; Cory Palacios; Stephanie Palacios; Mary Ramírez; Michael Schuller; Melinda Sotuyo; Aída Villarreal; Mónica Valdez; and Nilda VanHook. See story later in this posting.
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398th District Court Judge Aída Flores, flanked on her left by Hidalgo County Judge Ramón García and his chief-of-staff Yolanda Chapa, on Monday, November 7, shares her insights on the needs of the county’s judicial branch, which is housed in the Hidalgo County Courthouse. Flores’ observations came during the second public meeting of the Hidalgo County Courthouse Master Plan Committee, a 30-member group which includes Nelda T. Ramírez, executive director for the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation. The special citizens panel has been empowered by the county government’s leadership to help prioritize the pressing needs of the almost 60-year old complex, and how to pay for those solutions. The third meeting of the Hidalgo County Courthouse Master Plan Committee is scheduled for Wednesday, January 18, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The session will be held in the International Trade and Technology Building, 1201 West University Drive, on the campus of the University of Texas-Pan American. All meetings of this group have been open to the public. The date and location for the fourth and final work session will be announced following the January 18 meeting. To Flores’ right is Edcouch Mayor Pro Tem Eddy González. In the background are Joey Gómez, news correspondent with the Edinburg Review and Rio Grande Guardian, and Edwina P. Garza, news correspondent with the Mission Progress Times. See lead story in this posting.
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by Legislative Media | Oct 28, 2011 | Politics
More than 500 family, friends and fellow educators on Saturday, October 15, attended the dedication ceremonies for the new Macaria De La Garza Gorena Elementary in the Edinburg school district. The Edinburg school board named the campus in her honor in recognition of the retired educator’s lifetime achievements, community service, and distinguished education career As an educator for 47 years, Gorena was on the cutting edge of education, often pioneering techniques that ensured the success of all students, especially those with physical and emotional limitations. Gorena was one of the pioneers of the Edinburg CISD’s Special Education Program and was associated with Edinburg CISD’s program for more than four decades. In this portrait, Gorena, seated in the center, is joined, to her right, by Belinda S. Figarelli, principal of Gorena Elementary, and to her left, her children, Mariela Gorena, Macaria (Caro) G. Palmatier, and Roberto E. Gorena. See story later in this posting.
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The Edinburg Chamber of Commerce on Saturday, October 15, publicly recognized five leading citizens for their public service during its annual awards banquet, which was held at the ECHO Hotel and Conference Center. Elva Jackson Garza was named the chamber’s Woman of the Year, while Mitch Roberts was named as Man of the Year. Cris Torres with International Bank of Commerce was honored with the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce Leadership Award while Marty Martin from Rio Valley Realty received the Ambassador of the Year Award. Sally Marie Jaime was bestowed the City of Edinburg Firefighter of the Year Award. Featured, from left, are: Cris Torres; Elva Jackson Garza; Letty González, president of the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce; Sally Marie Jaime; and Marty Martin.
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Young and old alike were left in awe during and after renowned author Sandra Cisneros’ lectures, held at three of South Texas College’s campuses to close out the college’s Hispanic Heritage Month Lecture Series and celebration. The month-long series was sponsored by STC’s Center for Mexican American Studies and the Department of Library Services. Cisneros’ appearances – she is featured here, standing at right – were also sponsored by the Education Leadership Series, led by William Serrata, STC Vice President of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management. “We’re going to remember this one for quite a while. We could not have asked for a better way to close our third annual Hispanic Heritage Month Lecture Series.,” said Center for Mexican American Studies Instructor and event coordinator Víctor Gómez. “In fact, this one may be hard to top. Ms. Cisneros is a prolific writer and the reaction from our students and community put this event over the top. See story later in this posting.
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Nominations are being solicited by the Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce for area individuals who have succeeded in business. Any business person who lives in the Valley is eligible to be nominated for the following honors: Business Woman, Business Man, and Small Corporation, Medium Corporation, and Large Corporation of the Year. The awards will be determined based on the business successes achieved by nominees during 2011. These honors will be bestowed during the RGVHCC’s Noche de Gala, scheduled for Saturday, January 21, in McAllen. Deadline to submit nominations is Friday, November 4. More information on the nominations process is available by contacting the RGVHCC at 928-0600. Featured reviewing the upcoming business awards process are RGVHCC leaders, from left, seated: Marti Miller, vice chair of membership and Pepe Cabeza de Vaca, vice chair of international affairs; and standing, from left: Brent Smith, treasurer; Ronnie Bernal, vice chair of small business and economic development; and Hari Namboodiri, member of the advisory board.
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The Edinburg Chamber of Commerce on Friday, October 28, sponsored “Meet and Greet the Author”, featuring David Rice of Austin, formerly of Edcouch, whose literary works include Crazy Loco, Give a Pig a Chance, and his newest endeavor, Heart Shaped Cookies and Other Stories. The event, hosted at the historic Train Depot, featured Rice meeting with and reading to students from Stephen F. Austin Elementary School. Although Rice has lived in Austin for the past 20 years, he always manages to leave his heart in the Valley, still calling Edcouch his home. He is always happy to return to the RGV to share his work as a writer, educator, and friend to many. As a compulsive story teller, Rice has several published.
Rice has also given his time to film media and recently filmed Gone Hollywood – a romantic comedy – and Scavengers – a family film – both shot in the Rio Grande Valley. On those two projects, Rice worked alongside television star Valente Rodríguez, also from the Delta area. Rice is featured in this photograph standing in front of an image that graces the cover of Heart Shaped Cookies and Other Stories. See story later in this posting.
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In a move that McAllen school district leaders contend will put their students out front and center as a leader of instructional technology, plans are underway to spend $20 million to provide an iPad2, featured in this photograph of a McAllen ISD student, or an iPod Touch for each of the district’s 25,300 students and 1,634 teachers. “This is a wonderful day — a game changer that will revolutionize the way we prepare our students for the 21st century,” said McAllen ISD superintendent Dr. James Ponce. He recently spoke at an elementary school library filled with community leaders and other dignitaries, company executives, parents, students, and employees. The event marked the official launching of TLC3—Transforming Learning in the Classroom, Campus, and Community — a unique move to place a mobile device in the hands of every student in the district. See story later in this posting.
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Fall is here, and as the region anticipates cool weather approaching soon, Edinburg will spice things up. On Saturday, November 12, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the 1st Annual Market Days Cook-Off will take place at the Edinburg Town Square. The event is being hosted by the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce, the Edinburg Convention and Visitors’ Bureau, and the Edinburg Market Days Committee. The event is free and open to the public. More information for prospective competitors and for local business owners who wish to sponsor an exhibit to sell their goods and services is available by contacting the local chamber at 383-4974 or by going online at http://www.Edinburg.com. Feature promoting the event are Edinburg Chamber of Commerce leaders, from left: Martín Rivas; Cristal Sánchez; Evana Vleck; Imelda Rodríguez; and Ramiro Rodríguez. See story later in this posting.
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The stars were shinning bright as community leaders gathered at The Club at Cimarron on a breezy October evening for the sixth annual South Texas College Valley Scholars Program’s A Night with The Stars. Attendees enjoyed an evening of dining and entertainment as the college saluted Atlas & Hall, LLP and Charles Clark Chevrolet Co. In this image, STC leaders are featured with honorees at the event. From left are: Juan Mejía, STC Vice President of Academic Affairs; Corinne Kelley, coordinator of the Valley Scholars program; Alexandro Sarabia; Kirk Clark; Dr. Shirley A. Reed, STC president; and Anahid Petrosian, STC Assistant to the Vice President for Academic Affairs. See story later in this posting.
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by Legislative Media | Oct 3, 2011 | Politics
Estella Lane Treviño, featured center, seated, the longtime executive director for the Edinburg Housing Authority, was honored for her many professional and personal accomplishments by city and state leaders in Edinburg on Friday, September 23, which was designated a day in her honor by the Edinburg City Council. Treviño, whose many landmark achievements include being the first woman justice of the peace in Hidalgo County, recently retired as EHA leader after 39 years of service. Following the ceremony, she posed with her immediate family, from left: Dr. Valeria Guerra and her husband, Brian Joseph Guerra (Mrs. Treviño’s grandson) of Austin; George X. Guerra and his wife, Chiqui T. Guerra (Mrs. Treviño’s daughter) of McAllen; Xavier Blair Horler (Mrs. Treviño’s great-grandson) and his parents, Blair Horler and Leanne Marie Guerra Horler (Mrs. Treviño’s granddaughter) of Dallas; and Stephen Michael Guerra (Mrs. Treviño’s grandson) of San Antonio. See stories later in this posting.
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McAllen attorney R.D. “Bobby” Guerra on Thursday, September 8, celebrated with his immediate family following his successful campaign kick-off in McAllen for state representative, House District 41, which includes southwest Edinburg and northeast McAllen. More than 300 supporters joined the Guerra family at the Art Village for the political event. Guerra, a Democrat, is facing a challenge from Edinburg businessman T.C. Betancourt for the March 2011 Democratic Party primary nomination. The winner will face Rep. Aaron Peña, R-Edinburg, in the November general election. Guerra and his wife, the former Leslie Yoder, posed with their son, Cameron, and daughter, Tessa, following his campaign kick-off speech. The Guerra’s other son, Justin, was in San Antonio that evening because he was needed at his work. Guerra – son of the late Hidalgo County Judge Ramiro Guerra and Enedina Guerra, who served on the Pan American University Board of Regents – criticized Peña and the Republican Party for a state budget that cut about $4 billion from the state’s public education system. See story later in this posting.
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The Edinburg Consolidated ISD Board of Trustees were recently presented with a $20,000 grant check from State Farm Insurance and Texas Valley Communities Foundation (TVCOF) to implement college readiness programming for students and parents across the district’s six middle schools. Featured, front row, from left: Raúl Resendez with State Farm Insurance; ECISD board secretary Ciro Treviño; ECISD board vice-president Carmen González; Rep. Verónica Gonzáles, D-McAllen; and Dr. René Gutiérrez, ECISD superintendent. Standing, from left: ECISD board trustees Juan “Sonny” Palacios, Jaime R. Chavana, and Dr. Martín Castillo; Dr. Rebecca Morrison, ECISD assistant superintendent; and ECISD board president David Torres. See story later in this posting.
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Colorful images of La Virgen de Guadalupe, La Llorona, indigenous groups and even Selena graced the walls of South Texas College’s Pecan Campus Library in McAllen, all paying homage to the thoughts and ideas that make up the vision of what it means to be a Chicana woman. The images weren’t chosen randomly; they were part of artist Santa Barraza’s exhibit and lecture, Four Decades of Chicana Art and Culture in Texas and Beyond, which kicked off South Texas College’s Hispanic Heritage Month celebration. In this photograph, Barraza stands next to her sand sculpture titled Day of the Dead Altar for Los Tios. She prepared the artwork specifically for STC’s Hispanic Heritage Month celebration. Barraza gave two talks on Thursday, September 15, at the college’s Pecan Campus Library Rainbow Room in to kick off the festivities. She was one of several noted speakers who participated in the Hispanic Heritage Month Pláticas Sol de Aztlán Lecture Series. See story later in this posting.
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Pedro Contreras, an employee with the Edinburg Parks and Recreation Department, was recently honored by Edinburg school district leaders for his determination to finish his high school education. Contreras, featured here with Nelda R. Garza, director of the Edinburg CISD Vision Academy of Excellence, dropped out of Edinburg North High School in 1991 to help provide for his family. But with help from the Vision Academy of Excellence, Contreras was able to earn his General Equivalency Degree (GED), and in this photograph, he and Garza are reviewing his application for admission to the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) program at South Texas College. See story later in this posting.
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Are you a small business owner? Do you need help with issues such as employee attitude, how to increase your bottom line, where to go to get funding to expand or start your business, etc.? These are just some of the free workshops that the Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, based in McAllen, offers its members and future members. The RGVHCC recruited new members in mid-September, but encourages prospective members to learn more about organization and how to join by calling 928-0060 or logging on to http://www.rgvhcc.com. “The RGVHCC is a non-profit business organization for all business owners and professional people who are interested in growing their business as well as meeting other professionals” said Armando Garza, RGVHCC chairman. Cynthia M. Sakulenski, president and CEO of the organization, noted that the group works on issues relating to health, education, women, and governmental affairs. Some of the RGVHCC leaders are featured here, seated, from left: Marti Miller, vice chair of membership; Rick Álvarez, vice chair of government affairs; and Nidia Villarreal, vice chair of women’s issues. Standing, from left: Ronnie Bernal, vice chair of small business and economic development; Armando Garza, chairman; Cynthia M. Sakulenzki, RGVHCC president and CEO; Sam Saxena, vice chair of finance; and Mario Garza, vice chair of health.
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Team spirit was in the air as faculty, staff and administrators from South Texas College and The University of Texas-Pan American gathered in Edinburg on Wednesday, September 7, to sign agreements to help students through the process of transferring from one institution to the other. The signing of the six new agreements allows STC graduates who earn Associate of Science and Associate of Art degrees in the fields of business administration, chemistry, communication arts, computer science, criminal justice and music to seamlessly transfer to UTPA to continue their studies towards a bachelor’s degree. “Now we have 17 agreements in place to ensure all the credits from our various STC degrees plans transfer to UTPA, but that’s not enough – we can do better,” commented Dr. Shirley A. Reed, STC president. “I think we should publicly commit today to having agreements in place within two years ensuring our institutions are 100 percent aligned.” At the end of the signing ceremony, college administrators swapped tee-shirts, hats and caps in a show of team work and spirit. Featured, front row, from left: UTPA President Robert S. Nelsen; STC President Shirley A. Reed; UTPA Senior Vice Provost for Undergraduate Studies Ana María Rodríguez; STC Vice President for Academic Affairs Juan E. Mejía; and UTPA Provost Havidán Rodríguez. Featured, back row, from left, are STC deans Ali Esmaeili, Mario Reyna and Margaretha Bischoff. See story later in this posting.
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As hundreds of thousands of Texas youths returned to school this fall for a new academic year, Rep. Sergio Muñoz, D-Mission, has been delivering his message that it is never too late to finish a high school education. “Throughout the world, the United States remains known as the ‘Land of Opportunity’, in large part because during our history, this nation has been where countless number of people have come for a chance to achieve their dreams,” said Muñoz. “With many of our young students here in the Valley, I have had the honor to congratulate them for earning their second chance to finish their education.” Muñoz recently was the keynote speaker addressing graduates of the Pharr-San Juan Alamo (PSJA) school district’s Dropout Recovery Program, and the high school education graduates of the Evins Regional Juvenile Center. Featured at the PSJA graduation ceremony are, from left: José V. Romo III; Jena Hernández; Brisclarin García; Dr. Daniel King, PSJA superintendent; Rep. Sergio Muñoz; and Carla L. Vera. See lead story in this posting.
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by Legislative Media | Sep 1, 2011 | Politics
The University of Texas System Board of Regents on Thursday, August 25, gave final approval for the construction of a $42.6 million, 1,000-seat performance arts center at the UT-Pan American – a highly-anticipated decision that has been long in coming. But it comes just in time for the Edinburg City Council’s and Edinburg Economic Development Corporation’s planned and dramatic transformation of the community’s vital downtown and university corridors, says Mayor Richard García. “This is excellent timing because in a few months, we will be soliciting public bids from qualified firms for our planned make-over of West McIntyre Street into a beautiful, pedestrian-friendly, environmentally-enhanced corridor that will help existing businesses and attract new shops and venues to serve thousands of residents and visitors who will come to our downtown and university” said the mayor. Sen. Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa, D-McAllen, a principal legislative architect in helping secure state funding for the complex, emphasized the positive impact of the approved project. “This facility will attract supporters of the arts, quality performers and outside visitors. These benefits will also radiate into the community in other ways,” said Hinojosa. “I am confident this will be a top-notch performing arts center that will bolster the local economy by attracting jobs and investment, and enrich the cultural life of the Rio Grande Valley. Investments like these are particularly beneficial because they help boost UT-Pan American’s profile in the region.” See story later in this posting.
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With several members of his immediate family looking on, local healthcare and produce businessman T.C. Betancourt on Monday, August 23, officially announced his candidacy as a Democrat for state representative, House District 41, which includes southwest Edinburg. He noted that Republicans, who control the Texas Legislature, approved state budget cuts and legislative redistricting plans last spring that cost South Texas billions of dollars in critical funding over the next several years. “I intend to work hard to create good-paying jobs, affordable healthcare and offer more people the ability to access the education they want,” Betancourt said. “These are the opportunities and benefits that I have provided our employees and families in Hidalgo County for the past decade. I can be trusted to fight for the people of South Texas.” Featured with him, from left, are his wife, Ana, formerly of Mission, and his parents, Mary and Lupe Betancourt. T.C. and Ana Betancourt have twin sons – Aiden and Tristán, and he has two brothers – Lupe III and Joel – and one sister, Candy Martínez. See story later in this posting.
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The 2011-2012 Edinburg Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors met on Thursday, August 11 at Doctor’s Hospital at Renaissance to review short- and long-term plans to enhance events and programs produced by that organization. Johnny Rodríguez will step down as chairman and welcome Edna Peña on October 15 at the chamber’s Annual Banquet at the Echo Hotel and Conference Center. “I am very excited about our new board of directors. I feel that we have a great group of individuals who are passionate about the chamber and the city of Edinburg,” said Peña. “I look forward to serving as the 2011-2012 chairman and am excited for what is to come.” Featured promoting the announcement of the chamber’s new leadership are, standing from left: Alex Ríos; Johnny Rodríguez; Edna Peña; Marty Baylor; Letty González; Naomi Perales; Jacob De León; and Marty Martin Seated, from left: Elva Jackson Garza; Maggie Kent; and Dina Araguz. Not pictured are Lucy Canales; Gus Casas; Marissa Castañeda; City Councilmember Elías Longoria, Jr.; Robert Lucio; Robert McGurk; Edinburg Municipal Court Judge Toribio “Terry” Palacios; and Cris Torres. More information on the local chamber is available by calling 956/383-4974 or logging on to http://www.Edinburg.com
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The Women’s Business Center honored Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa with the “Community Advocacy Award” on Friday, August 26, at the 2nd Annual Women’s Business Summit held at Texas State Technical College in Harlingen. Hinojosa was honored for being an outstanding community leader and for his dedication to improving the lives of women. “My hat goes off to women, because I know that women work much harder than men do,” Hinojosa said. María “Charo” Mann, executive director of the WBC, said “Sen. Hinojosa has been an outstanding supporter of woman issues here in the Rio Grande Valley and fought the good fight during this past legislative session. We are very honored to have such a leader among us.” The Women’s Business Summit was a day-long event providing useful information to business professionals, entrepreneurs, and aspiring business owners. The event’s theme was “Creating Strategies for Today’s Successful Woman” and topics such as Access to Capital, Marketing, Productivity and Leadership motivated attendees. For more information about the Women’s Business Center, visit http://www.wbc-rgv.org. Featured, from left: Sylvia Zamponi, Lower Rio Grande Valley SBA district director; Catalina Madrigal-Rupert, TXU Energy community relations manager; Sen. Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa, D-McAllen; María “Charo” Mann, Women’s Business Center executive director; and Alma Ortega-Johnson, Wells Fargo Upper Valley president.
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All aboard! Get on track with the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce Depot Restoration committee and efforts to preserve the historic train depot, located at 602 W. University Drive. The Hobo Hap’nin Reunion will bring to life one of the most successful events and fundraisers that brought the community together for one common purpose. The event is scheduled for Saturday, September 17, starting at 6:30 p.m. filled with live entertainment, live and blackboard auctions and a scrumptious dinner. Featured promoting ticket sales to the Hobo Hap’nin Reunion are members of the 2011-2012 Depot Restoration Committee. From left are: Letty González; Elva Jackson Garza; Flo Prater; Maggie Kent; Marty Martin; Edna Peña; and Vivian Martin.
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The Texas Association of Mexican American Chambers of Commerce (TAMACC) held their annual convention in Irving August 25 through August 27. The Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, headquartered in McAllen, was honored as the Medium Chamber of the Year. In addition, Pepe Cabeza de Vaca, publisher of Socialife magazine, was honored as the Business Man of the Year. The awards were given out at the annual Chairman’s Gala on August 26. The RGV Hispanic Chamber was recognized for their work on issues that impact small business, education, legislative affairs, women, and health. It was noted that the RGVHCC had also extended their services to the entire Rio Grande Valley. This makes the 10th award in the past 12 years from the Texas State Chamber that the RGVHCC has received. “We are extremely proud to be able to represent the Rio Grande Valley. Due to the economic hardships, it has been hard at times to put forth our program of work, but our dedication to our membership is what has kept us going,” said Cynthia M. Sakulenzki, president and CEO of the RGV Hispanic Chamber. Cabeza de Vaca, who also is a member of the RGVHCC, was publicly recognized for successfully guiding his publishing interests, which now are circulated in Starr County as well as Hidalgo County, plus he has added health and kids social magazines. “We are extremely proud that a member of our chamber would be honored with such an honor,” Sakulenzki emphasized.
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Rep. Aaron Peña, R-Edinburg, and Rep. Verónica Gonzáles, D-McAllen, whose legislative districts include Edinburg, are noting the economic influence of the performance arts complex, whose auditorium is featured in this rendition, and other upcoming academic and physical improvements to the largest state university south of San Antonio. “The completion of the fine arts center and the other major investments by the UT System are going to have a deep and lasting impact in our community,” said Peña. “Young people interested in pursuing careers in medicine, science, technology and the arts will have some wonderful tools at their disposal.” Peña was the coauthor of House Bill 153, supported by the Valley state legislative delegation, that included hte funding for the facility. “Good things come to those who wait,” Gonzáles said. “It took a while for monies we secured years ago to fund this project to become a reality, but it will definitely be worth the wait. UTPA is one of the finest educational institutions in this state and it deserves a top-of-the-line Fine Arts Center. The benefits it will bring not only to students, but to all our community will be endless.” See lead story later in this posting.
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