by Legislative Media | Aug 10, 2011 | Politics
A virtual ribbon was cut by South Texas College administrators, officially launching the college’s sixth state-of-the art campus in early August. Although the new virtual campus doesn’t feature beautiful green spaces or ambitious new architecture, what it does offer is something equally exciting and fitting for a new digital age. STC’s newest campus is one of the edgiest of its kind because it is an online virtual campus. STC’s new eSTC Virtual Campus went live on Tuesday, August 9, allowing the college’s over 30,000 students to enroll in one of more than 500 course sections toward earning one of 15 degrees and five certificates – available to earn all online. “The dawn of the Internet in daily life more than two decades ago meant the advent of a new era in the way we live and work; it has transformed every facet of our lives,” explained STC President Shirley A. Reed. “In a brave move that few colleges have dared to take, we are offering every service available to our traditional campus students – all online.” See story later in this posting.
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South Texas College on Thursday, July 28, received approval from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to offer a third university-level degree: the Bachelor of Applied Technology in Medical and Health Services Management. The new baccalaureate degree prepares graduates for entry to mid-level management positions at health care or medical facilities. Course work focuses on health care facility management principles, technological innovation in delivery of health care services, health information processing technology and government regulations related to health care services. Featured in Austin moments after the state board’s approval are, from left: STC President Shirley A. Reed, Rep. Sergio Muñoz Jr., D-Mission, and STC Vice President for Academic Affairs Juan Mejía. See story later in this posting.
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Rep. Verónica Gonzáles, D-McAllen, featured here on January 28 during a legislative tour at the University of Texas-Pan American, on Friday, August 5, announced her bid to seek a fifth two-year term as the state legislator for House District 40, which includes much of Edinburg. “Over the past seven years, I have had the honor and privilege of working for and with people from all different backgrounds, occupations and perspectives,” Gonzáles noted. “I am also grateful for the support I have received from my law firm, friends and residents of Hidalgo County, which make my public service possible. I look forward to continue building upon these relationships and creating new ones to ensure that the next legislative session is a success for District 40.” From right, following last January’s legislative tour’s presentation on border control technology, are: Fred Schwien and Lee Moss with the Boeing Corporation; UTPA President Robert S. Nelsen; Sen. Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa, D-McAllen; Rep. Gonzáles; and Ray Prewett, Texas Citrus Mutual.” See story on her election bid later in this posting.
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Some of the underwriters and sponsors of the Hobo Hap’nin Reunion, set for Saturday, September 17, recently gathered at the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce train depot to finalize the details of the event. Levels of support range from $500 to $5,000, with many benefits and recognition for support extended to enhance the historic train depot that was constructed in 1927. Featured promoting the upcoming event are, seated from left: Letty González, president, Edinburg Chamber of Commerce; Elva Jackson Garza, representing sponsor Edwards Abstract and Title Co.; and Maggie Kent, representing sponsor General Dentistry Center & RDS. Standing, from left: Marty Martin and Flo Prater, members of the Depot Restoration Committee; Naomi Perales, representing sponsor Texas Gas Service; Sandra Casas, representing sponsor H.E.B.; Edna Peña, representing sponsor Gotta Lovette; and Edinburg City Councilmember Elías Longoria, Jr., member of the Depot Restoration Committee. See story later in this posting.
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Plans are well underway for the Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce’s Hispanic Heritage Fiesta & Cook Off scheduled for the Friday, October 7 and Saturday, October 8 at the RGV Livestock Show Grounds in Mercedes. The event will include a sanctioned IBCA cook off with cash prizes totaling more than $10,000. Items to cook are brisket, pork spare ribs, chicken, pan de campo, beans and chef’s choice. In addition, live entertainment will be available all day, vendor’s selling their food, services and goods and a Kiddie Land area. Also, SPI Bikefest will hold a poker run, bike skills contest, and bike show. Featured accepting the sponsorship check from Superior Health Plan are, front row, from left: Ronnie Bernal, vice chair of Small Business for the RGVHCC; Cynthia M. Sakulenzki, president and CEO of the RGVHCC; Mary Lou Cavazos with Superior Health Plan; and Marti Miller, vice chair of membership for the RGVHCC. Featured back row, from left: Hari Namboodiri, member of the Advisory Board for the RGVHCC; Rick Álvarez, vice chair of Government Issues for the RGVHCC; and and Brent Smith, treasurer for the RGVHCC. See story later in this posting.
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The Leadership Edinburg steering committee is currently accepting applications for Class XXIII. All interested applicants should call the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce at 956/383-4974 to register. Leadership Edinburg (LE) is a nine-month program which gives its class members the opportunity to practice their leadership skills and brush up on different community topics that include history, education, healthcare, politics, and quality of life plus a fundraising session and a community service project in which all members of the LE willingly give back to the community. More than 520 graduates have taken the Leadership Edinburg Challenge. Individuals who want more information about Leadership Edinburg may call the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce at 956/383-4974. Featured promoting Leadership Edinburg are members of its steering committee, from left: Jay Flores; Adelita Ozuna; Imelda Rodríguez; Cindy Castillo; Letty González; Flo Prater; and Marty Martin.
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The Edinburg Cultural Activities Board (CAB) has scheduled its first monthly Jardín del Arte for Friday, August 12, beginning at 6 p.m. at Edinburg City Hall, 415 West University Drive. The event, which is free and open to the public, is designed to connect the community to vibrant art, music and culture. Refreshments will be available during the gathering, which will last through 9 p.m. More information about Jardín del Arte, including how artists can submit an application to display and sell their work, can be found at http://www.edinburgarts.com. Anyone looking for information can also call Letty Leija, committee member and Director of the Dustin Michael Sekula Memorial Library, at 956/383-6246.
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by Legislative Media | Jul 15, 2011 | Politics
McAllen’s state legislation on Thursday, July 7, pose for news photographers following their presentations before the McAllen Chamber of Commerce on how the Valley made out during the five-month regular session of the Texas Legislature, which ended May 31, and the special session, which wrapped up in late June. “The $27 billion budget shortfall and the current political environment set the theme from the start and it was not pretty,” said Sen. Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa, D-McAllen, featured second from left. “Still, aside the difficulties we faced, we were able to shine a positive light on several important issues.” As one example, the Texas Legislature approved almost $66 million in additional funding for border security, among some of the victories secured by South Texas state lawmakers. From left are: Rep. Aaron Peña, R-Edinburg; Sen. Hinojosa; Rep. Verónica Gonzáles, D-McAllen; Sen. Eddie Lucio, Jr., D-Brownsville; and Rep. Sergio Muñoz, Jr., D-Mission. See editorial later in this posting by Sen. Hinojosa on his view of the sessions’ negative and positive impact on the Valley.
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Congressman Rubén Hinojosa, D-Mercedes, on Thursday, June 23, welcomed Edinburg North High School student Felipe Gaitán, his family and his teacher to Washington, D.C. Felipe is the 1st Place winner of the 2011 Artistic Discovery Congressional Art Competition for Texas’ 15th Congressional District. He earned the top spot for his pencil drawing entitled Hey Good Looking. “It was a pleasure meeting Felipe and his family here in Washington, D.C.,” said Hinojosa. “He’s a fine young man and obviously a very talented artist. Our district will be very well represented here on Capitol Hill throughout the year.” The annual art competition, coordinated by members of the U.S. House of Representatives, takes all of the winning art work from throughout the country and displays them for one year as part of the national exhibition in the Cannon Tunnel of the U.S. House of Representatives, which leads to the U.S. Capitol building. For winning 1st Place, Felipe received a scholarship to the Savannah College of Art and Design in Savannah, Georgia, plus he and his family were flown to the nation’s capital. This is the Gaitáns’ family first visit to Washington, D.C., and the first time, for the children to fly on an airplane. High School students from throughout Texas’ District 15 submitted 26 entries for the annual competition. A total of 12 high schools from Harlingen to Three Rivers participated in the competition. Featured, from left: Lorenzo Gaitán (father); Christian Gaitán (brother); Felipe Gaitán (art winner); Elena Gaitán (mother); Congressman Hinojosa; Terry Viña (art teacher); and Rubén Gonzáles, Jr. (brother)
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A research and education park for the deep South Texas is becoming a reality now that the master planning process is well underway. Broaddus Planning of Austin expects to have the plan completed by Fall 2011, and gave a preview of the plan to regional stakeholders, including leaders with the University of Texas-Pan American and South Texas College, during a reception at the McAllen Chamber of Commerce on Wednesday, June 22. The park will be located on 400 acres of public and private land near the McAllen Foreign Trade Zone. The driving force behind the park is a subcommittee comprised of affiliates of the North American Advanced Manufacturing Research and Education Initiative (NAAMREI). Sixty business, education, economic development, industry and government partners form the initiative, which was launched as a result of a U.S. Department of Labor investment. NAAMREI partners are focused on transforming the region into a world leader for advanced and rapid response manufacturing. Featured during the June 22 update are, from left: Wanda Garza, executive director, NAAMREI; Dr. Shirley A. Reed, president, South Texas College; Dr. Robert S. Nelsen, president, the University of Texas-Pan American; Rose Benavidez, vice-chair, STC Board of Trustees; Gary Gurwitz, chair, STC Board of Trustees, and Juan E. Mejía, chief academic officer, STC. See story later in this posting.
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The Edinburg Chamber of Commerce will host Workforce Solutions at their next Business Luncheon, set for Thursday, July 21, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Edinburg Depot, located at 602 West University Drive. Topics being discussed will include: Workforce Solutions services and support to businesses; the do’s and don’ts of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA); employing those with disabilities, and how Workforce Solutions can help businesses save money, support human resource needs; and hiring, pre-screening and training of employees. More information is available at the chamber’s website at http://www.Edinburg.com. Featured, from left: John Hershey, business development specialist, Workforce Solutions; Katherine Filut, disability program navigator, Workforce Solutions; Letty González, president, Edinburg Chamber of Commerce; Evana Vleck, marketing director, Edinburg Chamber of Commerce; Sonia Quintero, deafness resource specialist, Texas Department of Assistive & Rehabilitative Services; and Víctor Martín de León, public information officer, Workforce Solutions.
Hobos around Edinburg are packing up and on the trail to the historic Edinburg Depot, the home of the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce. They are hopping on board to support the Depot Restoration Project and getting spiffed up to participate in the Hobo Hap’nin’ Reunion, scheduled on Saturday, September 17 at the Edinburg Depot, located at 602 W. University Drive. “We are inviting all past presidents, board members, volunteers and the current chamber investors to join us in September as we host the Hobo Hap’nin’ Reunion,” said Elva Jackson Garza, chairman of the Depot Restoration Committee. “This will be a very special event as it will bring civic and business leaders who were instrumental in the original renovation project that started in 1994. It’s time we come together again for a very important cause as we restore one of Edinburg’s most important treasures built in 1927.” Members of the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce Depot Restoration Committee, featured here promoting the event, are, from left: Vivian Martin, Maggie Kent, Flo Prater, Edna Peña, Letty González, Marty Martin and Elva Jackson Garza. See story later in this posting.
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McAllen Mayor Richard Cortéz, featured July 7 at the McAllen Chamber of Commerce’s legislative update, is criticizing the state’s Republican leadership for what he fears will be almost a $1 billion reduction in state funds for key programs and services, including public education and medical care for the poor, in deep South Texas. “Ladies and gentlemen, I want to tell you, as mayor of this city, as great as we have done in the past, there is a storm brewing out there,” Cortéz said. “When they tell me we’re not going to get almost a billion dollars of funds from the state to the Rio Grande Valley, if that doesn’t scare you, I don’t know what will. How do we make up a billion dollars in our economy?” See story later in this posting.
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Sen. Judith Zaffirini, D-Laredo, whose legislative district also includes Starr County, recently marked her 47,550th consecutive vote in the Texas Senate. Featured here earlier this year presiding over the Texas Senate, her unique, career-long 100 percent voting record extends from January, 1987, when she first took office. “Every vote I cast in the Texas Senate reflects my commitment to balance the needs of my Senate District 21 constituents with those of our great state,” Zaffirini said. “I am thankful for the opportunity to make a difference, especially for the very young, the very old and persons with disabilities.” See story later in this posting.
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by Legislative Media | Jun 21, 2011 | Politics
Fresh off a successful first session that included the passage of 18 major bills and one amendment bearing his name – including measures that provided $630,000 for a bachelor’s degree program at South Texas College, will reduce high school dropout rates, punish human traffickers and sexual predators, protect private property rights, and reduce the growing health and safety problems caused by roadside vendors – Rep. Sergio Muñoz, Jr., D-Mission, has been honored by his Democratic colleagues for his legislative achievements. Muñoz, featured left with Sen. Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa, D-McAllen, on the House floor in late May, authored, coauthored, sponsored and cosponsored more than 60 bills and one amendment – including 25 measures approved by the full House that publicly recognized major achievements by constituents in his House District 36. See lead story later in this posting.
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The Edinburg Economic Development Corporation, along with the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce, on Thursday, June 9, hosted a job fair for Santana Textiles, one of the world’s largest denim manufacturers, which is constructing a $180 million complex at the city’s North Industrial Park. This first round, held at the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce, 602 West University Drive, focused on seeking skilled applicants for 20 positions, such as licensed electricians, mechanics, and mechanic helpers. “This job fair helped kick off Santana Textiles’ hiring process, but we will be hiring throughout the summer,” said Lori A. Garza, Manager of Human Resources for Santana Textiles, LLC. “We are happy to cooperate with the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation and the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce and appreciate their support.” Interested area residents who were unable to make it to the event may call the EEDC at 383-7124 for more information about future hiring by Santana Textiles, which eventually will have a workforce of 800 along with the major investment for facilities and state-of-the art equipment. Featured from left: Letty Reyes, Project Manager, EEDC; Evana Vleck, Director of Marketing and Special Events, Edinburg Chamber of Commerce; and Lori A. Garza, Manager of Human Resources, Santana Textiles, LLC.
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Rep. Aaron Peña, R-Edinburg, featured front row, center, participates in a group portrait with his Capitol office and House committee staff members, praising them for their individual and collective achievements on behalf of his constituents. “It’s appropriate that I take a moment to recognize the solid staff that makes our office run as effectively as it does. These are smart, young people who have found public service to be a value,” said Peña. “They are a credit to our community and to the State of Texas. I expect great things from them.” Featured, front row, from left: Maricela De León, chief of staff; Rep. Peña; and Paul Kamprath, chief clerk, House Committee on Technology. Featured, back row, from left: Felicia Peña, assistant committee clerk; Melinda Reyes, legislative intern; Mikael García, legislative director; Trey Pérez, legislative intern; and Jacob Welch, assistant committee clerk. See a related story later in this posting on Peña being bestowed the Teddy Roosevelt Award by the McAllen Chamber of Commerce.
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The University of Texas-Pan American is forming a Center for Bilingual Studies, which will take a multi-disciplinary approach to studying the Rio Grande Valley’s bilingual community. Featured from left: Dr. Glenn Martínez, professor of modern languages, and member of the Board of Directors for the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation; Dr. José Ruiz-Escalante, professor of curriculum and instruction, Dr. Dahlia Guerra, dean of the College of Arts and Humanities and sister to Edinburg Mayor Richard García; Dr. Héctor Ochoa, dean of the College of Education; Dr. Jennifer Joy Esquierdo, assistant professor of curriculum and instruction, Leonides Gómez, professor of curriculum and instruction, and Dr. Francisco Guajardo, associate professor of educational leadership. See story later in this posting.
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Veterans from the Rio Grande Valley, featured here in Austin earlier in the spring on behalf of a full-service Veterans Administration Hospital for the Valley, are closing following reports from Washington, D.C. which point to progress on that issue at the federal level as well. Congressman Henry Cuellar, D-Laredo/McAllen, has included legislation in the fiscal year 2012 Military Construction and Veterans funding bill that would bring South Texas one step closer to having a full-service VA hospital. The bill passed the U.S. House of Representatives on Tuesday, June 15, by a vote of 411 to 5. Featured in this portrait, taken in the State Capitol complex in Austin are, from left: Rep. J.M. Lozano, D-Kingsville; José María Vázquez; Joe Ibarra; Treto Garza (seated); Rep. Armando “Mando” Martínez, D-Weslaco; Rubén Cantú; Pete Garza; Sisto Barrera; and Scott Jenkines, chief-of-staff for Rep. Martínez. See story later in this posting.
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The inaugural graduates with Mexican American Studies certificate from the University of Texas-Pan American – which was first offered in spring 2010 – celebrated the historic moment in May. To earn the certificate, a student must already be admitted to a graduate program at UTPA and take 12 hours of course work in Mexican American Studies from any discipline with no more than six hours in any one subject. Featured, front row, from left: certificate recipients Karmin San Martín and Vania Barrera; Dr. Cynthia Brown, UTPA vice provost for graduate studies; and certificate recipients Verónica Sandoval and Orquidea Morales. Back row, from left: certificate recipients Rodrigo Cano, Milena Melo, Lucas Espinoza, Hugo Paz, and Dennis Garza. See story later in this posting.
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The Edinburg Volunteer Fire Department recently donated six sets of protective helmets, jackets, pants and gloves to the foundry at the University of Texas-Pan American to keep artists safe when working with the molten metal. (A foundry is an establishment where metal is melted and poured into molds.) Shawn Snider, the fire department’s chief, said the gear is no longer useable by firefighters to enter burning buildings, but is safe for the artists to use when working in the foundry. Featured, from left: Jacob Quintanilla, EVFD firefighter; R.H. Pursley, EVFD deputy chief; Jaime Piña, EVFD firefighter; Antonio Salazar, EVFD deputy chief; Susan Fitzsimmons, UTPA Art Department chair; Douglas Clark, instructor at the UTPA Art Foundry Program; and Shawn Snider, EVFD chief. See story later in this posting.
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UnitedHealthcare, the Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and Lone Star Insurance Services on Thursday, June 23, will host a seminar for small-business owners on Healthy Texas, a statewide health initiative to offer affordable health insurance to small-business employees and their families. The seminar, scheduled from 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m., will be held at Lone Star National Bank, 520 E. Nolana, Suite 110, in McAllen. Registration begins at 8 a.m. UnitedHealthcare has been selected to provide insurance plans for Healthy Texas, an employer-based, public-private health insurance program offered by the Texas Department of Insurance. Healthy Texas uses state and federal funding to make it more affordable for qualifying small employers to offer health care benefits to their employees. Premiums for Healthy Texas products are, on average, 25- to 30-percent lower than commercial market plans. Featured making preparations for the seminar are, from left: Robbie Burgess, an executive with UnitedHealthcare; Laura McClelland, a renewal account consultant with UnitedHealthcare; and Rubén Garza with Lone Star Insurance Services. See story later in this posting.
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JoAnn Gama of McAllen, Chief of Schools at IDEA Public Schools, has been appointed by President Obama to President’s Advisory Commission on Educational Excellence for Hispanics. Gama, featured here at the White House for a swearing-in ceremony on Thursday, May 26, held in the Smithsonian Castle in Washington, D.C., which featured U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor. Gama was one of more than a dozen new members selected by the President to help improve academic excellence and opportunities by providing advice to President Obama and Education Secretary Arne Duncan. Gama co-founded IDEA Public Schools in 1998 as an academy, and after receiving a state charter, opened IDEA as an independent charter school in August, 2000. Since IDEA Public Schools’ launch, Gama has served as Principal and Chief Operating Officer. In 1997, she joined Teach For America in Donna, where she taught 4th and 5th grade English as a Second Language. Gama earned her B.A. from Boston University and her M.ED. in Educational Leadership from the University of Texas-Pan American. Also in this White House photograph is fellow Texan and commission member Ricardo Romo, the president of the University of Texas at San Antonio. See story later in this posting.
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Hidalgo Mayor John David Franz, featured right, on Thursday, May 19 in Mission expressed his appreciation to Congressman Henry Cuellar, D-Laredo/McAllen, for the South Texas lawmaker’s help in securing $5,975,000 in federal funds to construct a new 1.5 million gallons per day wastewater treatment plant in that border community. Cuellar – along with, from left, Jake Sheeran, Area Director for the United States Department of Agriculture Rural Development, and Paco Valentín, USDA Rural Development State Director – also announced grant awards of $1 million to the City of Alton for the construction of a new fire station, and $121,275 to the City of Palmview to begin a Revolving Loan Fund to aid small and emerging businesses. Cuellar, whose congressional district includes portions of Rep. Sergio Muñoz’ state House District 36 and Sen. Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa’s Senate District 20, also praised both state lawmakers for their roles in helping secure the grants. “One of the things that federal agencies look at is what sort of support they have in the local communities,” said Cuellar, himself a longtime state representative before he was elected to Congress. “If (local projects) have the support of the state legislators such as Rep. Muñoz and Sen. Hinojosa, that helps a lot.” Muñoz, who was in Austin for the state legislative session, said the alliances between the area’s state and federal elected leaders “continue to pay off. These important projects will help many of my constituents in House District 36 with the resources that will result in improved public safety, public health and economic development, as these three cities continue to grow and prosper.” See story later in this posting.
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Edinburg Mayor Richard García, featured front row, center, says he would support a pending legal ruling – currently being developed by Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott – if that decision allows Texas homeowners with diabetes, cancer, and other long-term major illnesses to qualify for the state’s landmark homestead property tax freeze. “Earlier this year, Attorney General Abbott was asked by Rep. Verónica Gonzáles that, in light of a recent decision by Congress to now consider diabetes and cancer as physical disabilities, does that mean Texans with these afflictions now also qualify for a freeze on their local property taxes?” asks García. “If he rules that they – and possibly others facing long-term major illnesses – do indeed qualify, then I would support such an expansion of the homestead property tax freeze.” The Edinburg mayor is seen here with other city leaders following a May 18 public affairs luncheon at the ECHO highlighting major economic development achievements. Featured, front row, from left: Agustín Hernández, Jr., attorney, Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson (LGBS); Pedro Salazar, executive director, Edinburg Economic Development Corporation (EEDC); Mayor Richard García, president, EEDC Board of Directors; Lucy Canales, attorney and general partner, LGBS; and Anissa Salazar, marketing coordinator, LGBS. Middle row, from left: Edinburg City Councilmember Elias Longoria, Jr.; Edinburg City Councilmember Noé Garza, P.E.; Flo Prater, Rio Valley Realty; Maggie Kent, General Dentistry Centers; Edna Peña, Horizon Properties; Marissa Castañeda, chief operations officer; Doctors Hospital at Renaissance; Letty González, president, Edinburg Chamber of Commerce; and Elva Jackson Garza, vice president, Edwards Abstract Title Company (EATC); Back row, from left: Ramiro Garza, Jr., Edinburg city manager; Johnny Rodríguez, owner, Austin Personnel Services; Mark Peña, legal counsel, EATC and member, EEDC Board of Directors; Eliseo Salinas, operations manager, LGBS; and Sam de la Garza, public relations, LGBS. See top story on the possible property tax freeze expansion later in this posting.
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by Legislative Media | May 16, 2011 | Politics
President Barack Obama and Vice-President Joe Biden, along with members of the national security team, on Sunday, May 1, are shown receiving an update on the mission against Osama bin Laden in the Situation Room of the White House in Washington, D.C. "As nervous as I was about this whole process, the one thing I didn’t lose sleep over was the possibility of taking bin Laden out," the president told 60 Minutes correspondent Steve Kroft in the Roosevelt Room of the White House on Wednesday, May 4. "Justice was done. And I think that anyone who would question that the perpetrator of mass murder on American soil didn’t deserve what he got needs to have their head examined." The transcript, along with video, of the 60 Minutes interview with Obama is available online at http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-504803_162-20060530-10391709.html. Seated, from left, are: Brig.-Gen. Marshall B. ‘Brad’ Webb, assistant commanding general, Joint Special Operations Command; Deputy National Security Adviser Denis McDonough; Secretary of State Hillary Clinton; and Secretary of Defense Robert Gates. Standing, from left, are: Admiral Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff; National Security Adviser Tom Donilon; Chief of Staff Bill Daley; Tony Binken, national security adviser to the vice-president; Audrey Tomason, director for counterterrorism; John Brennan, assistant to the president for homeland security and counterterrorism; and Director of National Intelligence James Clapper. A classified document seen in front of Clinton has been obscured by the White House, which provided what has become an iconic photograph in American history.
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The Edinburg school district’s Vision Academy of Excellence, a high school senior recovery school, was recognized earlier this spring by the Texas House of Representatives for helping non-traditional students graduate from high school. The recognition came via Texas House Resolution 770 authored by Rep. Aaron Peña, R-Edinburg. The resolution was introduced during Edinburg Day at the State Capitol. Featured acknowledging the legislative honor are, front row, from left: Nelda Ramírez Garza, director of the ECISD Vision Academy of Excellence; Edinburg City Councilmember Alma Garza, who completed her term of office on Tuesday, May 17; and Rep. J.M. Lozano, D-Kingsville. Featured, middle row, from left: Rep. Armando "Mando" Martínez, D-Weslaco; and Rep. Verónica Gonzáles, D-McAllen. Featured, top row, from left: Rep. Sergio Muñoz, Jr., D-Mission; Rep. Aaron Peña, R-Edinburg; President Robert S. Nelsen, the University of Texas-Pan American; Edinburg Mayor Richard García; Rep. José Aliseda, R-Beeville; and Johnny Rodríguez, chairman of the board of the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce.
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Norma Catalina Olivarez and Kristy Dee De La Garza, featured front row, third and fourth from left, respectively, were publicly recognized by the Edinburg School Board for recently being named Elementary and Secondary Teachers of the Year for 2011-2012. Their honors were bestowed upon them during the annual Teacher of the Year Banquet held on May 2. Formally congratulating the two outstanding educators during a May school board meeting are, front row, from left: ECISD board trustee and board secretary Ciro Treviño; ECISD board trustee and vice president Carmen González; honoree Norma Catalina Olivarez; honoree Kristy Dee De La Garza; and Jeffrey Moats, president of the Edinburg Teachers Credit Union, who presented $1,000 checks to each woman, as well as $200 checks each to every campus teacher of the year. Featured, back row, from left: Dr. Martín Castillo, ECISD board trustee; Dr. René Gutiérrez, Superintendent of Schools; and David Torres, ECISD board trustee. See story later in this posting.
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The McAllen Chamber of Commerce scheduled its annual Top 25 Scholarship Banquet for Thursday, May 19, 2011 to honor the top 25 graduates from each of the three McAllen high schools – McHi, Memorial, and Nikki Rowe. The chamber has sponsored this event for the past 26 years to show support of McAllen graduates wishing to continue their education and as a reward for a job well done. The Chamber’s Top 25 committee once again diligently worked to achieve its goal to raise $75,000 to award this year’s top 25 graduates each a $1,000.00 scholarship. Committee members featured, front row, from left: Glenda McClendon; Rachel Archaute; Isela Herrera; Muryel García, Leticia Hernández; and Yajaira Villarreal. Featured, back row, from left: Luis Cantú; Antonio Rosales; and Bill Stoker.
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Communication students from The University of Texas-Pan American heard first-hand from media professionals in public relations, advertising and health communication fields at the second annual Communication Showcase hosted by the Department of Communication April 28-29 at the Communication Radio and TV Studios’ Media Theater. The showcase kicked off April 28 with an emphasis on health communication, which is one of the fastest growing academic fields of study within communications. The showcase continued April 29, with a panel of media professionals in public relations and advertising who were invited to exemplify the other side of mass communication careers beyond print and broadcast journalism, which was the focus of last year’s showcase. Featured, from left: Dr. Aje-ori Agbese, UTPA assistant professor of communication; Liana Cisneros, director of community relations and group sales manager for the Rio Grande Valley Vipers; Tricia Barrera, public relations coordinator for the Texas Organ Sharing Alliance; Cynthia Puryear, senior strategist of corporate communications for Mitchell Communications Group; Dr. Timothy Mottet, chair of the UTPA Department of Communication and Henry W. and Margaret Hauser Endowed Chair in Communication; Helen Escobar, public relations coordinator for South Texas College; and Shannon Ponce, director of community outreach for Palm Valley Animal Center. See story later in this posting.
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Want to be eligible to win awesome door prizes while enjoying a wonderful lunch and watching the latest women’s spring fashions being modeled by local ladies and professional models? Then come to the RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Women’s Spring Luncheon & Style Show, scheduled for Tuesday, May 24, from 11a.m. to 1 p.m at Embassy Suites Hotel. Vendors will also be present selling jewelry, clothing, crafts, etc. Many local businesses have also donated gifts for door prizes. A special treat will be a $5 discount of the ticket price if an attendee wears a hat to the luncheon. Featured gathering to discuss the Style Show part of the event are, from left: Becky Malcik, owner of Bec’s; Lisa Olivo representing Our Secret; Sandy Pena, owner of Lionel’s; and Cynthia M. Sakulenzki, president and CEO of the RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. See story later in this posting.
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Administrators from The University of Texas-Pan American praised all of the institution’s staff members Wednesday, April 20 during the 23rd annual Staff Employee Awards Ceremony for continuing their hard work and dedication to UTPA despite looming budget cuts from the state. In this portrait, employees of UTPA’s Budget Office received the Teamwork Excellence Award from UTPA President Robert S. Nelsen. This year, the university honored 177 employees who have completed working at least five years of service at the institution by the end of the 2010 calendar year. Seventy people received certificates for serving five years, 48 received certificates for working 10 years, 28 received certificates for 15 years of service, 19 people received certificates for 20 years of service, six people received certificates for 25 years of service, and four people received certificates for 30 years of service. Featured, from left: María Teresa Capistrán; María E. Rincón García; Esmeralda G. Ríos; Richard E. Wilson; UTPA President Nelsen; Juan Claudio "J.C." González; Francisca Anita Rivera; Eduvina Rodríguez; Roy Treviño; and Martin Baylor, UTPA Vice President for Business Affairs. See story later in this posting.
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As part of its efforts to inform the public of key developments in their city, the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce scheduled a Wednesday, May 18 Public Affairs Luncheon to hear updates on local economic trends. Pedro Salazar, the executive director for the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation, was scheduled to address the gathering, set from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Echo Hotel and Conference Center. "Through the efforts of the board of directors and EEDC staff, Edinburg will continue to benefit with the creation of hundreds of jobs in 2011,” said Elva Jackson Garza, vice chair of the Board of Directors for the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce. Featured, from left: Mark Peña, a member of the EEDC Board of Directors and partner in the law firm of Lewis, Monroe & Peña; Elva Jackson Garza, vice chair for the Public Affairs Committee (and representing Edwards Abstract and Title Co.); Pedro Salazar, EEDC executive director; Kathy Salazar, purchasing agent, and Agustín Hernández, Jr., attorney with Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson, LLP; Melissa Rodríguez, Edinburg Chamber of Commerce ambassador; and Johnny Rodríguez, chairman of the Board of Directors for the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce (representing Austin Personnel Service).
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by Legislative Media | Apr 27, 2011 | Politics
Retired Lt. General Ricardo Sánchez (who was born and raised in Rio Grande City), who now lives in San Antonio, was the featured speaker in McAllen on Saturday, April 9, for the Welcome Home South Texas Vietnam Veterans Day celebration, which was co-sponsored by the City of Edinburg. A few days after his visit, he acknowledged that he is considering running as a Democrat for the U.S. Senate seat that will be vacated in 2012 by retiring Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison, a Republican. Sánchez’ possible candidacy drew support from the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee. "General Sánchez has spent his entire life serving our country, and there’s no question he would be a strong candidate if he decides to continue to serve his country in the U.S. Senate," said Matt Canter, a spokesman for the political group. "He has a tremendous life story, growing up poor, rising to the rank of general in the Army, and bravely leading more than a hundred thousand troops in both Gulf Wars." Featured during this portrait taken before he delivered the keynote speech at thecelebration, dubbed Landing Zone: Rio Grande Valley (LZ:RGV) are, from left: Agustín "Gus" García, Sr., commander, American Legion Post 408, Edinburg; LZ:RGV co-producer Brian Godínez, owner, Godínez Communications, McAllen; Dora Brown, senior vice president, IBC, McAllen; McAllen Mayor Richard Cortéz; State Rep. Sergio Muñoz, Jr., D-Mission; Retired Lt. General Ricardo Sánchez; Hidalgo County Judge Ramón García; Edinburg Mayor Richard García; Laura Gump, H-E-B regional vice president, San Antonio; LZ:RGV co-producer Miguel "Mike" Carrera, owner, Miguel Carrera Communications, Edinburg; and Julie Lara, H-E-B public affairs manager, San Antonio.
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Dr. Robert S. Nelsen, president of the University of Texas-Pan American, met recently with administrators, faculty and staff from UTPA, along with representatives from South Texas College and the McAllen Economic Development Corporation to discuss the planning process for a world-class Research and Education Park. The park is being developed under the direction of a subcommittee of the North American Advanced Manufacturing Research and Education Initiative (NAAMREI). The Research and Education Park, which has not yet been officially named, will be a unique, mixed-use, research and education development that will provide and/or incorporate a full range of interactive research and development, education, training and/or public support services in an interrelated format. A unique feature of the park will be an education campus. Featured, from left, seated: Wanda Garza, executive director for NAAMREI; Dr. Robert S. Nelsen, president of the University of Texas-Pan American; and Keith Patridge, MEDC president/CEO. Standing, from left: Helen J. Escobar, STC public relations coordinator; Jenny Cummings, STC public relations and marketing diretor; Dr. David Allen, dean of UTPA’s College of Engineering and Computer Science; Dr. Miguel González, associate dean of UTPA’s College of Engineering and Computer Science; Dr. Kimberly Selber, UTPA executive director for University Marketing and Communications and associate professor for the Department of Communication; and Mariana Múgica, MEDC marketing director. To learn more about NAAMREI, log on to their website at http://www.naamrei.org.
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“Hat’s off to Education” could almost be the theme for the upcoming RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Women’s Spring Luncheon & Style Show, hosted by the group’s Education Committee, which is set for Tuesday, May 24 at the Embassy Suites from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Anyone who wears a hat to the event will get $5 off of their ticket at the door. In addition, their name will be added to a drawing for special prizes. Funds raised at the event will go towards scholarships that the RGVHCC gives out in June. Local retail stores have already committed to modeling their spring clothes, shoes and jewelry for the luncheon and style show. Vendors are also signing up to sell jewelry, purses, crafts, etc. Sponsorships are: Queen $1,000; Princess $750; and Duchess $500. Exhibitors tables are $100. Ad’s for the program book can also be purchased. “We ask that the Valley step up to the plate and help us give out as many scholarships as possible by sponsoring or attending the luncheon” said Cynthia M. Sakulenzki, RGVHCC president and CEO. “We encourage gentlemen to attend as well. They’re guaranteed to have a great meal and fun among all the women." Debi Lou Modeling Academy will be coordinating the Style Show and music. More information on the luncheon and/or exhibit is available by calling the RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce at 928-0060. Education Committee members featured here, from left, seated: Adelita Muñoz and Cynthia M. Sakulenzki. Standing, from left: Edna Posada; Alexandria Posada; Noemi Ochoa; and Jenise Díaz.
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High school students Dennis Luna and René Mendoza, both from Edinburg, were named "Students of the Year" on Monday, April 11, by the Migrant Student Graduation Enhancement Program at The University of Texas at Austin. Each student received a $2,000 college scholarship funded by a gift from the ExxonMobil Foundation. The Migrant Students of the Year were selected on the basis of obstacles overcome, overall academic achievements, participation and leadership in extracurricular activities, and their performance in distance learning courses offered by the university’s Migrant Student Program. Featured, from left: Roberto García (counselor at Edinburg High School); Carlos Mendoza (brother of René and senior at St. Edward’s University in Austin); René Mendoza (Migrant Student of the Year); Dennis Luna (Migrant Student of the Year); Rep. Aaron Peña, R-Edinburg; Diana Alejos (counselor at Johnny G. Economedes High School); and Cory Crow (Montana counselor). See story later in this posting.
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A career panel opened the second annual South Texas College Communication Arts Festival, held at the Pecan Campus in McAllen on Friday and Saturday, April 1 and 2. The event offered a rare glimpse into the participants’ humble beginnings, and how education and the art of communication played key roles in their lives, leading them to successful careers in diverse fields. Participants in the panel were, featured from left: Hidalgo County Judge Ramón García; Dr. Shirley A. Reed, the president of STC; David Guerra, the president and CEO of International Bank of Commerce; Brent Branham, deputy city manager for McAllen; and Óscar Adame, news anchor for KRGV-TV Channel 5, who served as moderator for the panel. Also during CommFest 2011, representatives for several media outlets such as Telemundo, Entravision Radio, El Periódico USA,City Magazine, Social Life Magazine, among others, were on hand to speak to students and answer questions they had about careers in the media industry. See story later in this posting.
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The Edinburg Chamber of Commerce supports the 60th annual “National Day of Prayer”, set for Thursday May 5 from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m. at the East Lawn at the Hidalgo County Courthouse. Millions will unite in prayer at thousands of events from coast to coast. The National Day of Prayer Task Force’s mission is to communicate with every individual the need for personal repentance and prayer, mobilizing the Christian community to intercede for America and its leadership in the seven centers of power: government, military, media, business, education, church and family. Please call 956/533-0000 for more information or email to:[email protected]. Featured, from left, promoting the local event are: Adrian Esparza Sr.; Elma E. Esparza; and Letty González, president of the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce President.
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