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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by Legislative Media | Apr 8, 2011 | Politics
Sen. Steve Ogden, R-Bryan, Sen. Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa, D-McAllen, center, and Terry Burkett, chairman of the Outreach Veteran Committee for the Texas Capitol Vietnam War Monument Committee, on Wednesday, March 30, are featured reviewing the cast model for a planned $1 million monument, to be located on the Texas Capitol grounds, which will pay tribute to Texas veterans who served in America’s longest war. Earlier that day, the Texas Senate approved Hinojosa’s Senate Resolution 649, which celebrated March 29 as Vietnam Veterans Recognition Day. In a related measure, Gov. Rick Perry, also on Thursday, March 24, signed House Concurrent Resolution 56 by Rep. Sergio Muñoz, Jr., D-Mission, and Hinojosa, who served as a Marine combat squad leader in Vietnam, recognizing Saturday, April 9 as Welcome Home South Texas Vietnam Veterans Day. Muñoz said HCR 56 also is intended to draw more attention to the major celebration – which is free and open to the public – which will be held at the McAllen Convention Center on Saturday, April 9. See stories on the both measures later in this posting.
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Rep. Aaron Peña, R-Edinburg, featured on Friday, March 25, speaking from the podium in the Speakers Committee Room at the State Capitol, praises the House passage of Senate Bill 14, the so-called "Voter ID Bill", which would require Texas voters to provide one of several government-issued photo IDs, such as a Texas drivers license, before being allowed to cast a ballot at a polling place. Peña, surrounded by fellow Republican House members, contends the measure is part of several major pieces of legislation he will support this spring to crack down of voter fraud. However, his support for the voter ID bill was not shared by the rest of the Valley’s state representative delegation, including Rep. Sergio Muñoz, Jr., D-Mission, and Rep. Verónica Gonzáles, D-McAllen, who issued their own statements detailing the reasons for voting against the voter ID measure. That legislation now goes to a conference committee made up of five senators and five state representatives who must hammer out differences between the version approved by the Senate earlier this month, and the version approved by the House on March 24. See related stories later in this posting.
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American Electric Power representatives Ben Crandall and Ryan Smith on March 8 presented a $17,371.50 energy savings incentive check to the Edinburg school board during its regular meeting. Accepting the check were board members Jaime Chavana, Juan “Sonny” Palacios, Carmen González, David Torres, Robert Pena, Jr., and Dr. Martín Castillo as well as Superintendent of Schools Dr. René Gutiérrez, Robert Estrada, district architect, René Olivarez, district engineer, and Mario Salinas, assistant superintendent for District Administration. The incentive check, which comes through AEP’s 2010 Entergy Texas SCORE Program (Schools Conserving Resources) program, rewarded the district for choosing to install energy-efficient appliances The SCORE Program provides support to select school districts and higher education partners through energy performance benchmarking, energy master planning, and cash incentives for SCORE participants who complete projects that result in peak demand savings.
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Sgt. Patricio Castañeda, a Weslaco native, was a combat soldier in Vietnam. Lyndon B. Johnson was our president at the time. The two come together in the locally-produce play, Pat & Lyndon, which began in Pharr on Thursday, April 7. In the performance, produced by Pedro García, a wide array of characters, portrayed by the actors featured in this photograph, is at the Café Saigon and in their own backyards. Pat dreamed of a family life and Lyndon had nearly 500,000 soldiers deployed. Together they share their lives, their views and their experiences of this controversial time. Join the Pharr Community Theatre (PCT), 203 West Park Avenue in Pharr, on April 7 through 16, and again on May 19 through 22, at 7:30 p.m. on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, and 3 p.m. on Sundays. Advanced tickets are recommended (80 seats available per show) and can be purchased at the theatre Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. and noon, or call Carol at 956/460-5473 or 956/783-7746. Tickets are $7 apiece. Featured, from left: Abelardo "Cha Cha" Jiménez; Kenny Reyes; Robert Martínez; Omar Treviño; Lassiter Holmes (who portrays President Johnson); Cecilia Hinojosa; Noel A. Reyna (who portrays Sgt. Castañeda); Araceli Casares; Rigo Ordaz; Armandina Sesin; Daniel Román; José E. Martínez; and Viridiana Garza. Kneeling, from left, are: Emily May-G. and Rebeca Ortiz.
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Area residents who were near South Texas College’s Technology Campus in McAllen on Thursday, April 7 between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. may have noticed a slight pink glow covering the buildings. Why? It was Ladies Night on campus and the facilities were flush with Valley women enjoying an evening of fun, fashion, refreshments and career exploration. Admission was free and open to the public. Some of the women of STC’s Technology Campus showed their pink power ahead of the college’s April 7 event, including, featured from left: Irma Rosales, STC Computer Aided Drafting and Design (CADD) instructor; Esmeralda Adame, STC precision manufacturing instructor; Laura Salas, STC CADD instructor; Margarita Vanguelova, STC CADD instructor; and Sara Lozano, STC CADD instructor. See story later in this posting.
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Depression and Alzheimer’s will be some of the topics that will be covered at the South Texas Senior Summit – hosted by the Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce through its Health Committee – on Friday, April 29. Dr. César A. Matos will address those related issues in English and Spanish during the morning portion of the gathering, which is free and open to the public. A free lunch, sponsored by HEB, also will be provided for residents who attend the sessions, which will be held from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Palm View Community Center, 3401 Jordan Avenue in McAllen. Matos, who will be one of several medical professionals who will make presentations during the day, received his education at the University of Puerto Rico, University Autónoma of Guadalajara, University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine, University of Florida and the New York Psychiatric Institute. He began his practice in New York in 1983 and established his private practice in McAllen in August 1992. He is currently the General Medical Director for the South Texas Behavioral Health Center in Edinburg. The public is invited to register and also learn about Medicare/Medicaid, senior abuse and crimes against the elderly. Exhibitors will be available giving out information and marketing items that are useful to all seniors. In addition, free eye exams, foot exams, glucose and blood pressure readings will be made available at no cost to the audience. For more information and/or to register, residents and prospective exhibitors may contact the RGV Hispanic Chamber at 928-0060. Sponsorships and exhibit space are still available. Committee members featured with Matos are, from left: Lidia Limas, Retired and Senior Volunteer Program; Delia Estrada, Retired and Senior Volunteer Program; Norma Brewster, Office of Congressman Rubén Hinojosa, D-Mercedes; Dr. César A. Matos; Cynthia M. Sakulenzki, president and CEO of the RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce; and Adelita Muñoz, Texas AgriLife Extension Service.
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Edinburg High School senior Audrie Vela, a Senior Cross Country Athlete, recently signed a National Letter Of Intent to run cross country and track at Texas A&M University-Commerce for the fall of 2011. Featured on her big day are, front row, from left: Carlos Vela; Audrie Vela; Rachel Mascorro; and Ernie Mascorro. Standing, from left: Joe Filoteo, the athletic director for the Edinburg school district; and Tencha Lancaster, cross country track coach for EHS.
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by Legislative Media | Mar 10, 2011 | Politics
Edinburg’s top elected and economic development officials, along with leaders with Doctors Hospital at Renaissance, on Thursday, March 3, participated in the groundbreaking of the $9 million Edinburg Conference Center at Renaissance (ECCR). Located near the intersection of McColl and Dove in the southwest portion of the city – and adjacent to northeast McAllen – the Edinburg Conference Center at Renaissance will be used for an assortment of activities, all aimed to enrich the medical community and the public at large. “The Edinburg Conference Center at Renaissance is a place where doctors and other health care practitioners from throughout South Texas will come together to hear from the leading experts in medicine and health care,” said Mayor Richard García. “Already, Doctors Hospital at Renaissance is recognized as one of the leading hospitals in Texas, and this facility will further enhance its ability to bring world-class health care to Edinburg and to the entire region. In the end everybody benefits, the doctors, the patients, and the community.” Featured, from left: Mayor Pro Tem Agustín "Gus" García, Jr.; Councilmember Noé Garza, P.E.; Mark S. Peña, a member of the Board of Directors of the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation; Councilmember Gene Espinoza; Fred Palacios, the secretary/treasurer for the Board of Directors of the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation; and Pedro Salazar, executive director of the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation. See story in this posting.
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The 38,000-square-foot Edinburg Conference Center at Renaissance (ECCR), for which ground was broken on Thursday, March 3, will provide unparalleled architectural amenities. EECR will house an auditorium with stadium seating for 1,000 individuals, along with two multi-purpose rooms, each with seating for up to 250 people. The auditorium will feature a 3,100-square-foot main stage, a state-of-the-art sound system, theatrical LED lighting, and satellite broadcasting capabilities. The EECR will host meetings, lectures, community events, and patient education forums. The conference center is also designed to hold musical and theatrical performances. “The construction of the Edinburg Conference Center at Renaissance is evidence of the way our community can work together to build a center that will further our ability to share knowledge with the cities we serve,” said Carlos J. Cárdenas, MD, the chairman of the Board of Directors of Doctors Hospital at Renaissance. "The City of Edinburg is a driving force in providing the best for people in our community, which includes the best educational opportunities, entertainment, and the most advanced health services in the Rio Grande Valley.” As part of a more than $2 million investment by the city into the public/private partnership with Doctors Hospital at Renaissance, Edinburg will be able to secure usage of the complex for a wide range of events. See story later in this posting.
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Who would have thought that a phone call from Three Rivers, Texas in 1949 would spark the Mexican-American Civil Rights Movement? No one was more surprised than Sara Posas, featured second from right, who is the sister-in-law of Pvt. Félix Longoria. She was a special guest-speaker at the opening of the recent National Association of Chicana and Chicano Studies Tejas Regional Conference held at the South Texas College Pecan Campus Library Rainbow Room. The opening night of the 2011 NACCS Conference kicked off with the standing room only film screening and roundtable discussion of The Longoria Affair. The discussion brought together Posas with film director and writer John Valadez, Wanda García, daughter of civil rights pioneer Dr. Héctor P. García, and Marianne Bueno of North Texas University. At the conclusion of the film screening, Posas reminisced about the events that transpired after the death of her brother-in-law in World War II. She talked about the return of his remains to Three Rivers for a proper burial and the subsequent denial by the funeral parlor because “the white people wouldn’t like it.” She offered her sister help in the form of a call to Dr. García, which she accepted, and the rest is history. “I was at the right place, at the right time,” Posas explained. “All I did was make a phone call. I called my hero, Dr. Héctor P. García.” Featured, from left: the 2011 National Association of Chicana and Chicano Studies Tejas Regional Conference opening keynote panel on The Longoria Affair included film director and writer John Valadez; Marianne Bueno of The University of North Texas, Félix Longoria’s sister-in-law Sara Posas; and Wanda García, the activist daughter of civil rights pioneer Dr. Héctor P. García. See story later in this posting.
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The Boys and Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV are expressing their appreciation to the planning committee of Canada’s Hands Across the Border dinner and Victoria Palms Resort for their contribution of $1,145 towards youth development programs for youths served by the organization. The Boys and Girls Club RGV, which has played an integral role for 40 years in helping develop and guide tens of thousands of young residents, offers programs that emphasize character and leadership development, education and career development, health and life skills, the arts, and sport, fitness and recreation. Featured are some of the members of the Victoria Palms Resort and planning committee for Canada’s Hands Across the Border, from left: Sherry Morgan, manager for Victoria Palms Resort; Don and Sarah Mackenzie; Sabrina Walker-Hernández, chief professional officer for the Boys and Girls Club of Edinburg RGV; Marion Arnold; and Rosie and Gerry Culhane. Not pictured are George Arnold and Brian Smith.
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Approximately 50 percent of the residents of the Rio Grande Valley aged 25 and older have not earned a high school diploma, much less college credits. Of that 50 percent, approximately one half have earned a ninth grade education. “When you are confronted with this data, it is startling and causes serious concern,” said Dr. Shirley A. Reed, president of South Texas College. “That is why we continue to host our annual Summit on College Readiness. Collectively, we have to do more to stress the importance of education, because the journey to college must begin the day a child is born. Our region will simply not continue to prosper if we don’t develop a high skill, competitive, and educated workforce, which includes all deep South Texans.” More than 260 attendees from all levels of education from across the region, state and nation gathered in late February to face the hard facts at STC’s summit. Featured, from left: Luzelma Canales, STC interim dean of Community Engagement; Jonathan Arteaga, McAllen High School AVID Program student; and STC President Shirley A. Reed. See story later in this posting.
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The Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV recently announced that as a result of grant from Hochheim Prairie Insurance, Evangelina Cantú and César Mercado – two members of the local group’s TeenSupreme Program – on Monday, February 28 and Tuesday, March 1, attended the 2011 Boys & Girls Clubs of America Texas Alliance and Youth Competition in Austin. Both local residents had earlier been named Youth of the Year for their local Edinburg Units, Club 2020 El Tule and San Carlos, respectively, and attended the Austin trip to visit the capital, the University of Texas, and the Youth of the Year luncheon, where the state finalist was named. The keynote speaker at this luncheon was Rep. Verónica Gonzáles, D-McAllen. Featured, from left: Ella de la Rosa and Judi Flowers, members of the Board of Directors for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV; Araceli Valencia, local program supervisor teens; María Medina, local director of operations; Evangelina Cantú, one of the two local Youth of the Year; Eduardo Villanueva, a member of the Board of Directors for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV; Sabrina Walker-Hernández, chief professional officer for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV; César Mercado, the second of the two local Youth of the Year; and Rep. Verónica Gonzáles. See story later in this posting.
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Want to be part of an award-winning chamber of commerce? The board of directors of the Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors recently finalized their spring membership drive, which was set for Tuesday, March 8 and Wednesday, March 9. The event was open to the public. Individuals unable to attend the early-March membership drive may still contact the RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce for needed materials by calling 928-0060. Featured, from left, promoting the spring membership drive are: Armando Garza, chair; Marti Miller, vice chair of membership; Dr. Robert Nelsen, president of the University of Texas-Pan American, who also serves as vice chair of education; Jenise Díaz, vice chair of public relations; Mario Garza, vice chair of health; and Cynthia M. Sakulenzki, president and CEO of the RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. See story later in this posting.
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Magee Elementary staff members Lorenzo Flores and Gloria Garza, along with students Juan Lara and Annette Pérez, get ready to raise an honor flag given to their school during a recent special flag ceremony. During a lesson on patriotism last fall, Magee students decided to write letters to American troops in Afghanistan that could be included in care packages they were sending to the soldiers for Christmas. When Commander Richard Nalwasksy, the commander of the American troops in northern Afghanistan, received the care packages and letters, he wrote Marla Cavazos, Magee principal, and the students thanking them for the uplifting gesture. The American troops were so motivated by what the students did that they decided to fly an American flag over their base in Afghanistan in honor of Magee Elementary. Magee Elementary staff and students held a flag ceremony to raise the honor flag. Cavazos said the students learned about social studies, honor, community and patriotism.
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The Edinburg Chamber of Commerce and http://www.EDBGCityLimits.com on Tuesday, March 22, from 11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m., will host a seminar titled Marketing your Business during Hard Economic Times. This presentation will provide area residents important tips on marketing – on a modest budget – their business through social networks, radio, television and newsprint media through DIY (Do it yourself) networking. Some guest speakers include Elizabeth C. Martínez with Media Morphosis, Lebby Salinas and Shaine Mata from Social Media Network, and others. All businesses go through budget crunches and economic woes as they struggle to gain notice to news, events and finding ways to attract new clients without having to spend. This event, which is available for a $10 cost per individual, will be held in the Edinburg Depot, located at 602 West University Drive. The fee also will cover the costs for lunch, refreshments and door prizes. Individuals are encouraged to bring their business cards for networking purposes. Featured promoting the event are, from left: Elizabeth C. Martínez from Media Morphosis; Letty Reyes with the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation; Evana Vleck with the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce; and Lebby Salinas and Shaine Mata with Social Media Networking. To RSVP attendance, please call 956/383-4974.
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by Legislative Media | Feb 22, 2011 | Politics
Edinburg and South Texas picked up another high-quality sports team on Friday, February 18, with the announcement that the Rio Grande Valley Grandes Football Club, which will develop and showcase talent for the United Soccer Leagues (USL), will play its inaugural season at Edinburg Baseball Stadium. Mayor Richard H. García, featured second from right, led off the February 18 press conference before a standing-room only audience of area news media representatives, top city staff, and team supporters, praising the arrival of high-caliber soccer, the world’s most popular sport – and for which interest has grown rapidly since the 1990s in the United States – to the three-time All-America City. "South of here we have basketball and hockey," the mayor noted, referring to the Rio Grande Valley Vipers and the Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees, respectively, which call the State Farm Arena in Hidalgo their home. "In Edinburg, we have great baseball teams with the Edinburg Roadrunners and the University of Texas-Pan American Broncs, of which we are very proud, and they are doing a great job for us. Now we have the RGV Grandes with their ties to the largest professional and amateur soccer network in the nation." Featured, from left: Carlos Sánchez, RGV Grandes operations manager; Robinson Laraga, RGV Grandes vice-president; Ramiro Garza, Jr., Edinburg city manager; Jose Ignacio Larraga, RGV Grandes president; Mayor Richard H. García; and Esequiel "Zeke" Morales, RGV Grandes general manager. See story later in this posting.
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The Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (RGVHCC) on Tuesday, February 15, announced the 2011 Business Awards at their Annual Business Awards & Installation Dinner, which was held at the Embassy Suites in McAllen. In addition, U.S. Judge Randy Crane of McAllen swore in the RGVHCC’s new incoming Board of Directors for 2011-2012: Mario Garza, vice chair of Health; Marti Miller, vice chair of Membership; Rick Álvarez, vice chair of Government Affairs; Pepe Cabeza de Vaca, vice chair of International Affairs; Dr. Robert S. Nelsen, the president of the University of Texas-Pan American, vice chair of Education; and Armando Garza, the incoming Chairman of the RGVHCC Board of Directors. Receiving the 2011 Business Awards were, featured from left: Jesús “Chuy” Negrete, Volunteer of the Year; Yoli González, owner of R&D Personnel, Business Woman of the Year; Pepe Cabeza de Vaca, owner of Socialife, Small Corporation of the Year; and Carter Huber, general manager of Glazer’s Distributing, Large Corporation of the Year.
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Congressman Henry Cuellar, D-Laredo/McAllen, featured here at his Capitol office in Washington, D.C. on Friday, February 10, with Texas Secretary of State Hope Andrade, has announced that women-owned small businesses can begin taking steps to participate in a new federal contracting program under the U.S. Small Business Administration. The new Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) Federal Contract Program will be implemented over the next several months, with the first contracts expected to be awarded by the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2011. “As our economy continues to recover, we must provide emerging small business with the tools they need to be successful and to take their business to the next level,” said Cuellar. “This program is a great boost for women-owned small businesses to equal access in contracting opportunities and increases chances of winning federal contracts. America’s women-owned businesses can lead to further job creation and flourish in this demanding time.” See story on the WOSB program later in this posting.
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In honor of Black History Month, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV celebrates cultural diversity through the arts and spent some extra time learning about the extraordinary accomplishments of African-Americans. February began with a craft series, designed to show young residents a creative way for understanding about each other’s differences and how it can lead to intolerance, suspicion, and even violence. The activities culminate with an exhibition scheduled for Monday, February 21 through February 25 at the Dustin Sekula Memorial Library of more than 10 artworks by several club members depicting their perspectives on Black America. All area residents are invited to view the Art Exhibit during the library’s working business hours. "While we are highlighting the importance of African-American contributions during Black History month, the Boys & Girls Clubs in Edinburg on a year-round basis offer programs that speak to diversity, culture and issues of belonging," said Sabrina Walker-Hernández, chief professional officer for the local Boys & Girls Club.
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Johnny G. Economedes High School (JEHS) has been named an AVID (Achievement Via Individual Determination) National Demonstration School for the 2010-2011 school year. The prestigious National Demonstration School distinction recognizes JEHS’s AVID program as an exemplary model. AVID National and Regional staff recently visited JEHS to conduct a series of evaluations of the school’s AVID program prior to naming it a National Demonstration School. Featured displaying the banner recognizing JEHS as a National Demonstration School are, from left: Cynthia Walls, JEHS AVID coordinator/testing facilitator; Antonio Ballesteros, JEHS assistant principal; Santa Alvarado, ECISD AVID district director and ECISD area director; Gloria C. Rivera, JEHS principal; Liz Rusk, AVID Center; Vivian Shaw, AVID Center; Dr. Wendell Brown, AVID Texas state director; and Maria Luisa Guerra, assistant superintendent for Instruction and Support Services. See story later in this posting.
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Located on FM 2812, immediately east of the interstate-level U.S. Highway 281, the Rio Grande Produce Park – featured here with an artist’s rendition of one of the planned facilities – will eventually transform an 87-acre tract of land into a privately-owned, $100 million, state-of-the-art produce distribution complex that will be used to safely store and transfer agricultural imports coming from Mexico to the rest of the U.S. By the fall of 2011, city leaders say the Rio Grande Produce Park will create 200 jobs when the first of nine advanced refrigeration facilities for Mexican produce opens for business. Plans for Rio Grande Produce Park, unveiled by developer José Luis González – who also is the leader for his Chicago-based Don Hugo Produce, Inc. – call for 800 jobs to eventually anchor the major agricultural distribution center, which should boast about one million square feet of refrigerated-storage facilities. "We are the best at what we do when it comes to creating jobs, and it’s a fantastic achievement for the City of Edinburg, and one that I am very, very proud of," said Mayor Pro-Tem Agustin "Gus" García, Jr., focusing on the produce park, along with the Santana Textiles and Teleperformance USA, as the most recent examples of job-creating successes. The timetable for completion of the Rio Grande Produce Park is about five to seven years. The produce park is a direct result of the ongoing construction of the $1.2 billion Mazatlán-Durango Highway in western Mexico, set for completion in 2012, from where major produce imports to the United States through Edinburg will be made much safer upon completion of that superhighway. See story on the highway and the produce center in the lead story.
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