by Legislative Media | Oct 12, 2012 | Politics
Miriam Martínez leading by example on term limits Photograph by Heriberto Reyes
Term limits, which are being proposed for the McAllen mayor and McAllen city commissioners by the McAllen Police Association, help promote democracy so much that Miriam Martínez, the Republican nominee for State Representative, House District 41, on Thursday, October 4, signed a notarized statement that she would not serve more than two terms in the Texas House of Representatives. “I always believed that one should lead by example, and that’s why I am swearing, under oath, that I would limit myself to two terms in the Texas House of Representatives if I were to be elected state representative,” Martínez said. The term for state representative is two years. Martínez said four years in the Texas House of Representatives is more than enough time for a legislator to do good for their constituents. “Understanding the legislative process is not rocket science, it’s about doing what is right for your community,” said Martínez. “If an elected official is that good, they should seek higher office after two terms.” Featured, from left, are Fern McClaugherty, a member of the Objective Watchers of the Legal System, a taxpayer watchdog organization best known as the OWLS; Miriam Martínez; and Rev. Armando Vera, president of the first-ever Hispanic Tea Party, which is based in Hidalgo County. Martínez is facing Rep. R.D. “Bobby” Guerra, D-Sharyland, in the November 6 general election for the two-year term that begins in mid-January 2013. House District 41 includes southwest Edinburg, north, central, southeast and portions of west McAllen, Palmhurst, Sharyland, Alton, and portions of Mission and northwest Pharr. See story on term limits later in this posting.
••••••
R.D. “Bobby” Guerra, D-Sharyland, on Tuesday, September 25, takes the oath of office from Speaker of the House Joe Straus, R-San Antonio, during public ceremonies held on the floor of the Texas House of Representatives at the State Capitol in Austin. Guerra, a McAllen attorney, is finishing the final few months of the unexpired term of former Rep. Verónica Gonzáles, D-McAllen, who retired from the Legislature late last spring to accept the position as Vice President for University Advancement at the University of Texas-Pan American. Later, Straus appointed Guerra to the House Committee on Public Health and the House Committee on Border and Intergovernmental Affairs – the two legislative panels on which Gonzáles served before leaving the House of Representatives. The Public Health Committee is an 11-member panel whose responsibilities including dealing with the supervision and control of the practices of dentistry and medicine. “Public Health is a crucial committee for the Rio Grande Valley,” Guerra said. “The border area faces many unique health challenges including a physician shortage crisis, high rates of chronic diseases, lack of insurance coverage for many families, and most recently, unintended affects of the new managed care system. I look forward to fighting to improve conditions for both the Valley and my state.” The Border and Intergovernmental Affairs Committee, with nine members, considers legislation that affects counties along the Texas-Mexico border region. “Recently, the issue of security has been on the forefront of our border communities and I am honored to be the voice for the Valley on the Border and Intergovernmental Affairs Committee,” Guerra said. “It is important that we keep working to find ways to keep our borders safe without impeding trade or economic development.” Guerra is facing Republican Miriam Martínez of Edinburg, a small business owner and international journalist, in the November 6 general election for State Representative, House District 41, for a two-year term that begins in mid-January 2013. House District 41 includes southwest Edinburg, north, central, southeast and portions of west Mcallen, Palmhurst, Sharyland, Alton, and portions of Mission and northwest Pharr.
••••••
The Edinburg Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and staff are planning the Annual Installation Banquet scheduled for Saturday, November 3, 2012 at 6 p.m. This year, the ceremony will take place at Legacy Chapels Life Events Center located at 4610 S. Jackson Road. in Edinburg. The banquet will honor Dina Araguz, featured left, as incoming chairman, and Edna Peña, featured right, as outgoing chairman for the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce. It will also provide dinner and entertainment by comedian and magician Mark Robinson, plus the announcements of “Man and Woman of the Year, “Leadership Award” and “Ambassador of the Year”. Tickets to attend the Annual Banquet are $40 per person, or $400 for a table of 8. Attire will be business casual and all are encouraged to attend the magical night. More information is available by contract the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce at 383-4974.
••••••
Edinburg Rotarians, Mari De León, featured left, and Jane Cross serve up healthy samples to the parents participating in Boys & Girls Clubs Day for Kids, held on Friday, September 21, at The Legacy Center@Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV, located at 702 Cullen Street. This event, the first in a series of Healthy Lifestyles for a Lifetime cooking demonstrations, was sponsored by H-E-B and the Edinburg Rotary Club in an effort to educate parents and families on how to make better healthier food choices, and how parents can use dinner time to stay connected with their children. Other supporters included the Food Bank of the RGV. The event featured, among other things, audience sampling of all healthy food choices prepared, including salsa, chicken fajita, and even desserts. The food sampling trays were served up by Edinburg Rotarians. I love this,” said one parent, who husband recently suffered a heart attack. “I did not know how to read food labels before this event and now I feel like I can better help him.”
••••••
On Wednesday, September 13, the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce hosted its final monthly Ambassador meeting of the fiscal year at the historic Edinburg Depot, located at 602 West University Drive. Ambassadors consist of business professionals and members within the community, and they play key roles in supporting the organization’s overall mission of member acquisition and retention. They welcome new chamber members, attend ribbon cuttings, visit members, and answer questions about services and benefits offered by the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce. “The Chamber Ambassadors are a special group of volunteers that play a vital role for the chamber,” said Martín Rivas, Membership Director for the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce. “Being an ambassador is a good way to make new contacts, strengthen relationships, and build more resources, and most important, work with the community.” For more information, Rivas may be contacted at 383-4974. Featured, seated from left: Lidia Díaz (Premium Automotive Services); Charlene Kuprel (Private Financial); Letty González (President, Edinburg Chamber of Commerce); Imelda Rodríguez (Director of Tourism, Edinburg Convention and Visitors Bureau); and Stephanie Ozuna (University of Texas-Pan American Graduate Office). Standing, from left: Lee Castro (Legacy Chapels Life Events Center); Marty Martin (Rio Valley Realty); Dean Reger (Atlas Electrical and Air Conditioning Services); Ismael De León (Alpha and Omega Services); Martin Baylor (University of Texas-Pan American); Martin Rivas (Membership Director, Edinburg Chamber of Commerce); Dr. Walter Greene (Greene and Associates); Alex Ríos (Kids College Learning Center); Flo Prater (Rio Valley Realty); and Juan Tijerina (RGV Statewide Insurance).
••••••
The State of Texas has proclaimed October as Financial Exploitation Awareness month. In accordance with that designation, Silver Ribbon Community Partners, Adult Protective Services in Hidalgo County, the Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Lone Star National Bank and Costco is inviting the public to attend the 2012 Financial Exploitation Awareness Kick-Off, which will be held Monday, October 23, at Lone Star National Bank, 520 E. Nolana in McAllen. The event, which will begin at 10 a.m., will feature area city officials, members of law enforcement, elected officials, and representatives from financial institutions. In 2011, Adult Protective Services in Hidalgo County received more than 2,500 intakes regarding abuse, neglect and exploitation of disabled persons 18 of age and older and the elderly age 65 and older. Of these reports, more than 1,500 were confirmed. Shown meeting to discuss final arrangements for the workshop are, from left: Alina Cantú, RGV Hispanic Chamber; Rose Ramírez, Silver Ribbon; Edna de Saro, Marketing Director, Lone Star National Bank; and Jason Torres and Blenda Cantú of Costco. See story later in this posting.
••••••
Carmen González, the president of the Edinburg school board, says the school district's finances, academic performances, campuses, and future have never been better, offering a 69-page factual report, The Legacy of Excellence Continues, as proof of those successes under her leadership and tenure. González, a retired professional educator with 37 years experience – including her last 25 years in Edinburg – also highlighted her impressive professional and public service careers on Thursday, September 20, during her campaign kick-off before a full house at the ECHO. “Our district is committed to providing the very best education to our children,” González reflected following her standing-room only reception, which drew constituents from all walks-of-life, ranging from parents, educators and taxpayer activists to business leaders and state legislators. “It is truly an honor for me for voters to have given me the opportunity to serve our community for the past eight years,” she said. “I am respectfully asking all constituents to take a close look at my achievements on their behalf, and please vote for me once more.” See lead story in this posting.
••••••
(more…)
by Legislative Media | Sep 20, 2012 | Politics
The Texas Secretary of State on Thursday, September 6, certified that R.D. "Bobby" Guerra, D-Sharyland, is declared elected as the new state representative for House District 41 and will serve the unexpired term of former Rep. Verónica Gonzáles, D-McAllen, which ends in mid-January 2013. Guerra, the Democratic Party nominee who also is seeking a full two-year term in the November 6 general election, was the only candidate to file for the special election to fill the unexpired term for District 41, which includes southwest Edinburg, north, central, southeast and portions of west McAllen, Palmhurst, Sharyland, Alton, and a portion of northwest Pharr. Guerra, an attorney, is facing Miriam Martínez, R-Edinburg, a small business owner and international journalist, in the November 6 general election for the new two-year term that begins in mid-January 2013. All state representatives serve two-year terms. "Being declared state representative for District 41 to serve the unexpired term in the Texas House is a tremendous honor for me. I am truly grateful for the overwhelming community support I have received for the privilege of wanting me to represent our Valley families," said Guerra. See story later in this posting.
••••••
The appointment of Democrat Bobby Guerra to finish the final months of former Rep. Verónica Gonzáles’ term in the Texas House of Representative has little value for South Texans, says Miriam Martínez, the Republican nominee for House District 41. The Texas Secretary of State on Thursday, September 6, certified that R.D. "Bobby" Guerra, D-Sharyland, is declared elected as the new state representative for House District 41 and will finish out the final months of Gonzáles’ term, which ends in mid-January 2013. Guerra was the only person to file paperwork with the Texas Secretary of State to complete the remaining portion of Gonzáles’ term, which became vacant on June 30, when Gonzáles, a Democrat, retired from the Texas House of Representatives in order to take a $170,000-a-year job with the University of Texas-Pan American. "I remain on the general election ballot, and that is what is most important," said Martínez, R-Edinburg. House District 41 includes southwest Edinburg, north, central, southeast and portions of west McAllen, Palmhurst, Sharyland, Alton, and a portion of northwest Pharr. See story later in this posting.
••••••
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV on Tuesday, September 4, received a city proclamation recognizing Saturday, September 15, as Boys & Girls Clubs Day for Kids. BGC Day for Kids is an annual event highlighting the value of meaningful time between caring adults and children. This year, in celebration of Boys & Girls Clubs Day for Kids, The Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV is partnering with H-E-B and the Edinburg Rotary Club to host a family cooking demonstration on Friday, September 21, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at The Legacy Center@Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV, located at 702 Cullen Street (near the intersection of Rogers Road and U.S. Expressway 281). Featured during the city ceremony on September 4 are, front row, from left: Carrie Gutiérrez, Devin López, Alex Castillo, Carina Espinoza, and Abigail González. Second row, from left: Dazzrae López, Jaime Vega, Amaya Hernández, Ashley Garza, Miguel Espinoza, and Araceli Valencia, Program Supervisor, Boys & Girls Clubs Edinburg RGV. Third row, from left: Armando Chapa, Rotarian; Beverly Land, Rotarian; and Sabrina Walker-Hernández, Chief Operating Officer, Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV. Back row, from left: Mayor Pro Tem Agustín "Gus" García; Eddie Villanueva, Members, Board of Directors, Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV; Councilmember Elías Longoria, Jr.; Mayor Richard García; Councilmember Homer Jasso, Jr.; Councilmember J.R. Betancourt; and Michael Le Coste, Member, Board of Directors, Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV.
••••••
U.S. Expressway 281, which is the main transportation corridor linking the Valley and Mexico to major cities in Texas and beyond – plus the proactive approach by Edinburg’s city leadership in helping existing and prospective businesses – were among the key messages delivered on Wednesday, September 5, during the first annual International Business and Franchise Investment Expo. The event, hosted by the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation, drew more than 160 local, state and Mexican business, community and government leaders to the gathering, held at the Edinburg Conference Center at Renaissance. Among the speakers and organizers of the expo were, from left: Adrian A. Arriaga, CCIM, CIPS, broker/owner of AAA Real Estate and Investments; Guillermo Canedo, who leads the City of Edinburg’s office in Monterrey, Mexico; Nelda T. Ramírez, Executive Director, Edinburg Economic Development Corporation; Letty Reyes, Project Manager, Edinburg Economic Development Corporation; Juan R. López, A.I.C.P., Director of Planning and Zoning, City of Edinburg; César Cepeda, FranNet; and Pablo Cerda, Building Official, City of Edinburg. See lead story later in this posting.
••••••
Sabrina Walker-Hernández, featured center, Chief Professional Officer for The Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV, was recently honored as the 2012 Inspiration Award Winner for many achievements on behalf of the local chapter. The Inspiration Award, announced on Monday, September 3, is given to an outstanding professional whose leadership serves as an inspiration and catalyst resulting in transformational change with the Boys & Girls Clubs movement. Featured, from left: Teresa Walch of Dallas, the Regional Vice President at Boys & Girls Clubs of America; Sabrina Walker-Hernández, CFO, The Boys and Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV; and Lorraine Orr of Atlanta, Senior Vice President of Field Services for Boys and Girls Clubs of America. See story later in this posting.
••••••
On Thursday, October 4, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., South Texas Health System and the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce Public Affairs Committee will present a Public Affairs Luncheon featuring Jennifer Garza, Chief Executive Officer for Edinburg Regional Medical Center/Edinburg Children’s Hospital. The cost to attend the luncheon is $12 per person or $125 for a table of 8, and includes a hot lunch, beverage and dessert. The luncheon will take place at The Echo Hotel and Conference Center, located on 1903 South Closner in Edinburg. Featured promoting the upcoming luncheon are, seated from left: Catherine Domian, Chief Nursing Officer, Edinburg Regional Medical Center; Elva Jackson Garza, Vice President/Marketing Manager, Edwards Abstract & Title Company; Jennifer Garza, Chief Executive Officer, Edinburg Regional Medical Center; Lisa Killion, Marketing Executive, South Texas Health System; and Letty González, President, Edinburg Chamber President. Standing, from left: Imelda Rodríguez, Director of Tourism, Edinburg Convention and Visitors Bureau; Jacob De León, Funeral Director, Memorial Funeral Home; Martín Rivas, Membership Director, Edinburg Chamber of Commerce; Michael LaCoste, Associate Administrator, Edinburg Regional Medical Center; and Jason Chang, Chief Operating Officer, Edinburg Regional Medical Center. For more information on this event or to make a reservation please call the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce at 956/383-4974.
••••••
On Wednesday, September 26, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce and the Dustin Michael Sekula Memorial Library will feature art from beginners to practicing professionals at the Historic Train Depot, located at 602 W. University Drive. More than a dozen artists will display their art work made possible through instructional classes supported by Friends of the Edinburg Library. There is no admission charge and the artwork will be available for sale. For more information on this event or to RSVP by September 25, individuals may call the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce at 956/383-4974. Promoting the event are students from the 2012 Summer Art classes, from left: Letty Leija; Imelda Canales; Ramón Vela; Nelly Villarreal; and Zack Sáenz.
••••••
The McAllen Chamber of Commerce and FECANACO Tamaulipas on Thursday, September 27, will host the Bi-National Reunion of Chambers of Commerce Meeting at the McAllen Chamber of Commerce, located at 1200 Ash Avenue. The meeting will feature local and regional leaders of chambers of commerce from the Rio Grande Valley and Tamaulipas. During the gathering, important issues that are common to chambers of commerce on both sides of the border will be addressed. Featured, from left: Luis Cantú, Vice President of International Business, McAllen Chamber of Commerce, and Alma Ortega-Johnson, Member, Board of Directors, McAllen Chamber of Commerce. See story later in this posting.
••••••
The Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and New York Life will celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with a fiesta – which is free and open to the public – on Tuesday, September 25, from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Nuevo Santander Gallery, 717 North Main Street in McAllen. Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15, by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, México, the Caribbean and Central and South America. The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period starting on September 15 and ending on October 15. It was enacted into law on August 17, 1988, on the approval of Public Law 100-402. The day of September 15 is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, México and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September18, respectively. Also, Columbus Day or Día de la Raza, which is October 12, falls within this 30 day period. Featured helping prepare for the local fiesta are, front row, from left: Nancy Pascual, Michelle Guajardo, Rhonda Zavala, Connie Hernández, and Cynthia Sakulenzki, President and CEO for the RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Back row, from left, are: Gus Pascual, Arlene Villarreal, Gilbert Pérez, Noemi Hernández, Bertha Z. García, and James Burmane. More information on the event and the RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is available by calling 956/928-0060.
••••••
(more…)
by Legislative Media | Sep 5, 2012 | Politics
Francisco G. Cigarroa, M.D., Chancellor of the University of Texas System (featured third from right) on Friday, August 17, 2012 was welcomed at the UT Regional Academic Health Center in Edinburg by UT, Edinburg and state leaders, including Mayor Richard García and Rep.-elect Terry Canales, D-Edinburg. Cigarroa announced plans to significantly expand medical education in South Texas and graduate the first class of medical school students in the region in 2018. “On behalf of The University of Texas System Board of Regents, I am honored to make two announcements. First, the year 2018 will be a very special year for all of us. It will be the year that we graduate our first class of medical school students in South Texas,” said Cigarroa. “Second, we are beginning the transition of the UT Health Science Center – San Antonio Regional Academic Health Center—known as the RAHC – into an independent, freestanding, comprehensive and research intensive regional medical school, with its own president and structure, for South Texas.” Cigarroa outlined a blueprint that he developed in coordination with UT System Chairman of the Board of Regents Gene Powell and Regent Robert Stillwell, Chairman of the Health Affairs Committee. The plan was developed to bring the new South Texas medical school to life, and it addresses a significant list of past commitments and future steps to move the project forward. Featured, from left: Harlingen Mayor Chris Boswell; retiring Rep. Aaron Peña, Jr., R-Edinburg; Sen. Eddie Lucio, Jr., D-Brownsville; Chancellor Cigarroa; Mayor García; and Rep.-elect Canales. See story later in this posting.
••••••
Sen. Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa, D-McAllen, featured here in mid-August at the McAllen Convention Center as the keynote speaker during the summer graduation ceremony for the University of Texas-Pan American, is hailing a federal court ruling on Thursday, August 30, that overturned the state’s so-called "Voter ID Law". The measure, made possible last spring with the passage of Senate Bill 14, popularly known as the Voter ID Law, does disenfranchise certain segments of the voting-age population in Texas, the Washington, D.C. federal court ruled. "From the day this legislation was filed we voiced as loudly as we could that Voter ID legislation is designed to stop minorities and the indigent population from exercising their constitutional right to vote," said Hinojosa. Under Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, any changes to the elections process in Texas must be approved by the United States Department of Justice before it can be implemented. See story later in this posting.
••••••
South Texas state and congressional leaders on Wednesday, August 15, saluted retiring U.S. Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison, R-Texas, for the work she has done on behalf of the state, including help secure federal funding for the new McAllen VA Outpatient Clinic. Hutchison was addressing more than 100 Valley veterans and other local leaders during the groundbreaking of the new 58,500 square-foot medical facility, set to open late next summer, which will improve services to McAllen area by providing extended primary care services and outpatient specialty care. Featured, from left: Rep. Sergio Muñoz, Jr., D-Mission; Sen. Eddie Lucio, Jr., D-Brownsville; Congressman Henry Cuellar, D-Laredo/McAllen; Congressman Rubén Hinojosa, D-Mercedes, and Sen. Hutchison. See story later in this posting.
••••••
With area students of all ages returning to school for the fall semester, the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation on Friday, August 10, organized a Back to School Runway Show, featuring fashions being sold locally by Wal-Mart, Bealls, and Kenya Rose. Young women with Missy’s Modeling Studio showcased the latest back-to-school styles as part of iShop Edinburg’s ongoing campaign at the monthly Jardín Del Arte’s Summer Nights Jazz Series 2012, held free-of-charge and open to the public, at the City Hall Courtyard, 415 West University Drive. The modeling show, live music, and other activities – which showcased more than 20 artists and artisans, and food from local vendors – drew hundreds of area residents. Musical performances were delivered by Del Viento, and Bongo Bob & The Bobaloos. Among the other local talent featured at the event were: Benjamin Varela; Anna Varela; Celerrino Castillo; Rubén Ríos; Julián Rodríguez; Raúl Treviño; Ramón Vela; Ernesto Gómez; Lupe Vázquez; Raquel Hinojosa; Isis D. Camarillo; Paul Valadez; Martha Hinojosa; and Anna Ramírez – Robot Annie. Jardín Del Arte is organized by the EEDC, which is the jobs creation arm of the Edinburg City Council. The City of Edinburg and the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce also are sponsors of Jardín Del Arte and iShopEdinburg.
••••••
The Edinburg Cultural Activities Board along with Edinburg Arts recently made a connection between the Evins Regional Juvenile Center in Edinburg and the Emmanuel Project. The Emmanuel Project provides art supplies and creative learning materials for incarcerated youth ages 12 to 21 to help engage them in academics and facilitate success in the classroom. The project is named after Emanuel Martínez, a master painter and sculptor, and includes a customized mural for each center in which 80 percent is painted by the center’s youth. “The Arts can improve the quality of life in our community as they lift our spirits and touch our deepest emotions, as well as teach us to appreciate all cultures and traditions. The Arts are a vital component of our children’s education because they inspire and expand the creative mind, and promote development of analytical and critical thinking skills," Guerra said. "The Arts sustain and preserve the heart and soul of our civilization, and, in short, the Arts make us better people." She continued, "We are very happy to have facilitated this opportunity for the inmates in the Evins Regional Juvenile Center, with the hope of touching and possibly transforming a young life in Edinburg. These are the types of projects that the Edinburg Cultural Activities Board strives to bring to our community." Featured, posing in front of the working mural earlier this summer, are, from left: Dr. Dahlia Guerra; Emanuel Martínez; Letty Leija; and Ronaldo Chávez, the principal at the Evins Regional Juvenile Center. See story later in this posting.
••••••
Ladies, come out and enjoy an evening of shopping, dinner, cocktails, pampering, silent auction and a Men’s Style Show comprised of local business and community leaders on Thursday, September 27, at La Antigua Revilla in Edinburg from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. The Women’s Committee of the Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce has scheduled this event to raise funds for their upcoming Women’s Conference. Enjoy yourself as you get pampered with free massages, nail color change, make up makeover’s and new hair do’s. RGVHCC male board members will be bartenders and butlers to the ladies present. The Men’s Style Show will be coordinated by Debi Lou Productions. They will be showcasing casual, sport, business, western and formal wear. Ladies will have the opportunity to take pictures with the popular men. Several single and eligible models will be auctioned off for Dinner Dates hosted by several restaurants in the Valley. Tickets for the fundraiser are $25 each, and $300 for a reserved table of 10. Sponsorships of $3,000, $2,000, $1,000 and $500 are also available. Sponsorships include reserved tables in priority seating, ads in the program book and a vendor table. For more information call the RGVHCC office at 928-0060. Helping promote the fundraiser with Cynthia M. Sakulenski, the president and CEO of the RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, are some of the male models. Featured, from right; Sergio Contreras, ATT; Ray Cantú, Frank Smith Toyota; Johnny R. Cavazos, Johnny’s BBQ; Cynthia M. Sakulenzki; Emilio de los Santos, Lone Star National Bank; J.C. Cervantes, Pangea Floor Covering; and Joe Smith, L3 Technologies.
••••••
The Miss Edinburg 2013 Scholarship Pageant is accepting applicants for the Saturday, October 6 pageant, which will be held at the historic City Auditorium, located at 415 W. McIntyre, next to Edinburg City Hall. Registration is officially underway and will take place until the end of September. "We are looking forward to our upcoming pageant and are very excited to meet all interested applicants. Miss Edinburg and Miss Teen Edinburg 2013 will receive a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to serve their community with honor by promoting different events throughout Edinburg and the Rio Grande Valley," said Minerva Olivarez, Pageant Director. Featured promoting the pageant are, from left: Imelda Rodríguez, Director of Tourism, Edinburg Chamber of Commerce; Rachel Tunberg, Miss Teen Edinburg; Letty González; President, Edinburg Chamber of Commerce; Miranda Gracia, Miss Edinburg; and Minerva Olivarez, Pageant Director. See story later in this posting.
••••••
The Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is well underway in preparing for the annual “Hispanic Heritage Fiesta & Cook Off” that is scheduled for Friday, November 9 and Saturday, November 10 at the Mercedes Livestock Show Grounds. The Cook Off is a Sanctioned IBCA Cook Off with cash prizes over $10,000. Besides the sanctioned chicken, brisket and ribs, additional categories that can be entered into are Pan de Campo, Fajitas, Chef’s Choice and Beans. Cooking Teams can register for $200 and pick their cooking spot on a first come first serve basis. Other new events that will occur this year are a Chihuahua Race, Jalapeno Eating Contest, Horseshoe Toss and Chihuahua Costume Contest. The popular Kiddie Cooking Contest, Biker Poker Run & Field Events hosted by SPI BikeFest and Kiddie Land will return. Car dealerships will also display some of their new vehicles as well as compete in a Car Dealership Cook Off. Live entertainment from popular local bands will also be on stage all day Saturday. For information on the Fiesta & Cook Off call the RGV Hispanic Chamber at 928-0060. Featured working on the event details are, seated, from left: Lee Cabrera, Marti Miller and John Kowalski. Standing, from left: Anthony Covacevich, Cynthia M. Sakulenzki and Ronnie Bernal.
••••••
Hidalgo County Clerk Arturo Guajardo, Jr. and his Office of Records Management were recognized by the members of Hidalgo County Commissioners’ Court for receiving a national "Best Practice" Award by the National Association of County Records, Election Officials and Clerks (NACRC). The achievement, which was announced by the NACRC at their annual conference held in July, recognizes the County Clerk’s Office for their newly implemented program, "Records Management: Record, Retain, Recycle," which began with the initiative to reduce overcrowding, manage bulk paper waste, and promote environmental preservation of the county’s records management system. As the program evolved, the County Clerk’s Office successfully included a county-wide recycling strategy that is both efficient and effective, resulting in a tremendous environmental impact as well as a revenue-making stream. Featured, from left: Hidalgo County Judge Ramón García; Precinct 3 County Commissioner Joe M. Flores, Armando Pérez, a staff member with the Office of Records Management; Hidalgo County Clerk Arturo Guajardo, Jr.; Precinct 2 County Commissioner Héctor "Tito" Palacios; and Precinct 1 County Commissioner Joel Quintanilla. See story later in this posting.
••••••
Congressman Rubén Hinojosa, D-Mercedes, on Friday, August 10, announced that $129,534,387 in disaster recovery funds were awarded to several counties, a city and to the Lower Rio Grande Valley Development Council through the Texas Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recover Grant and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). "This funding will help thousands of people by upgrading their quality of life when it comes to health and safety," said Hinojosa. "We are still recovering from the effects of Hurricane Dolly, which hit the Rio Grande Valley in 2008 and caused severe wind damage and flooding. This grant award is very much needed and appreciated." According to Wikipedia, Hurricane Dolly – which hit the Valley and deep South Texas in 2008 – was the third most powerful hurricane to hit the U.S. in the month of July in recorded history, behind a storm in 1916 and Dennis in 2005. Dolly was also the second most destructive U.S. hurricane in July, behind Dennis. See story later in this posting.
••••••
(more…)
by Legislative Media | Aug 8, 2012 | Politics
Longtime Rep. Verónica Gonzáles, D-McAllen, who retired from the Texas Legislature on June 30 to assume her new duties on July 2 as Vice President for University Advancement at the University of Texas-Pan American, on Thursday, July 19, expressed her support for fellow Democrat and McAllen attorney Roberto “Bobby” Guerra. Guerra is facing Republican Party nominee Miriam Martínez of Edinburg, a renowned journalist and small business owner, for Gonzáles’ former House District 41 seat. Serving as the Mistress of Ceremony for the Legislative Report Card event in Mission hosted by the Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Gonzáles provided introductions for legislators and other dignitaries during the gathering. She recognized Guerra, the Democratic Party nominee, as “the former chair of the Hidalgo County Democratic Party, and now, I believe, my successor – and November will tell, and I have no doubt: Mr. Bobby Guerra.” House District 41 includes most of McAllen, key portions of Edinburg, Pharr, and Mission, and all of Sharyland, Palmhurst, and Alton. Featured, from left, are all Democrats: Rep.-elect Óscar Longoria, Jr., D-La Joya; Sen. Eddie Lucio, Jr., D-Brownsville; Rep. Sergio Muñoz, Jr., D-Mission; Sen. Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa, D-McAllen; former Rep. Gonzáles; and Bobby Guerra. The general elections, which cover local posts to U.S. president, will be held on Tuesday, November 6, 2012.
••••••
Miriam Martínez of Edinburg, the Republican nominee for state representative, House District 41, and Congressman Rubén Hinojosa, D-Mercedes, greeted potential voters during the Women’s Business Summit, held on Friday, June 22, at the Edinburg Conference Center at Renaissance. Martínez is facing McAllen attorney and former Hidalgo County Democratic Party chairman Roberto "Bobby" Guerra while Hinojosa is facing Dale A. Brueggemann, a Seguin businessman who in the Tuesday, July 31 primary runoff, won the GOP nomination over Eddie Zamora of McAllen. Qualified Texas voters will be going to the polls on Tuesday, November 6 to decide local, regional and national races, including the Martínez/Guerra and Hinojosa/Brueggemann contests. Edinburg and McAllen are both key constituencies in the House District 41 and Congressional District 15 races.
••••••
With Christopher Vela of Edinburg, a Senate legislative intern, looking on, Rep. Sergio Muñoz, Jr., D-Mission, on Friday, August 3, fielded questions from reporters in McAllen regarding the formation of One Texas, a new statewide organization dedicated to engaging Hispanic voters and electing more Democrats to the Texas House of Representatives. Muñoz, Rep. Armando "Mando" Martínez, D-Weslaco, and Rep. Eddie Lucio, III, D-San Benito, along with Rep. Trey Martínez-Fischer, D-San Antonio, had headlined the afternoon news conference held in the office of René A. Ramírez, founder and owner of Pathfinder, a consulting firm specializing in government relations, economic development and community outreach in the Rio Grande Valley. The three Valley state representatives each donated $5,000 to One Texas as part of their appearance in McAllen. In addition to legislative issues, such as redistricting, public education, and civil rights, which are hallmarks of minority state lawmakers, One Texas is expanding its legislative priorities to transportation, water and energy infrastructure.
••••••
Terry and Erica Canales, featured in this campaign photograph with their daughter and son, will be representing House District 40, which includes much of Edinburg, in the Texas Legislature beginning next January. Terry Canales, an attorney in Edinburg, won the July 31 Democratic Party primary runoff. He has no opponent in the November 2012 general election, and will succeed longtime Rep. Aaron Peña, R-Edinburg, who is retiring at the end of his current two-year term. Canales, president of the Hidalgo County Young Lawyers Association, said as a state lawmaker he will work to help restore $5.4 billion in statewide budget cuts to public education, protect programs that provide health care for women, and help recruit major manufacturers to House District 40.
••••••
South Texas College, in partnership with the Texas Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services Division for Rehabilitation Services (DARS), is embarking in a new grant-funded program to help disabled students achieve college and career success. The program, which is titled “Project HIRE” is geared at ensuring students have access to college, get through college and achieve success through job placement after earning their degree. It is funded by a $225,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration on Development Disabilities, as well as an additional $31,425 from non-federal resources. Featured at the grant announcement, from left: Jim Hanophy, Assistant Commissioner, DARS; Steve Ahlenius, President, McAllen Chamber of Commerce; Laura Villarreal, Director, DARS Project HIRE; Bruce Reed, Assistant Dean, College of Health Sciences and Human Services, the University of Texas-Pan American; Robert S. Nelsen, President, the University of Texas-Pan American; Debra Wanser, Commissioner, DARS; Rudy Martínez, Regional Director, DARS; Raymond Lee of EMR Consulting Group; Shirley A. Reed, President, South Texas College; and Paul Hernández, Dean of Student Support Services, South Texas College. See story later in this posting.
••••••
The Hidalgo County Commissioners’ Court on Tuesday, July 31, approved a proclamation declaring August 2012 as National Minority Donor Awareness Month. Jaime Longoria, the Assistant Chief Administrator at the Hidalgo County Judge’s Office, introduced the proclamation, emphasizing the importance of organ donation and how it is an ultimate gift of life. Longoria spoke from experience: his young son was both a recipient and became a donor when he lost his life. Representatives from the Texas Organ Sharing Alliance were in attendance and also shared their profound stories. Gabriel and Sylvia Espinoza of Edinburg lost an 18-year-old son, Jeremy, in March 2003, when he was killed as a passenger in a car accident. Incredibly, two weeks before his tragic death – in a pronouncement that showed he was wise beyond his youthful age – Jeremy had told his family that he always wanted to help people. He convinced them to donate his organs in the event of his passing. Isabel Garza of Mercedes became one of five people who received organ donations from Jeremy. She received Jeremy’s left kidney, telling county leaders that she is living a healthy and active life thanks to Jeremy. Court members unanimously approved the proclamation, which aims to raise awareness of the importance of organ donation among minorities, including Hispanics. Featured, first row, from left: Edwina P. Garza, Public Relations Coordinator, Southern Region at Texas, Organ Sharing Alliance; Jaime Longoria; Isabel Garza; and Sylvia Espinoza. Back row, from left: Precinct 4 County Commissioner Joseph Palacios; Precinct 3 County Commissioner Joe Flores; County Judge Ramón García; and Precinct 2 Commissioner Héctor "Tito" Palacios.
••••••
Lewis Joseph Lodico of Edinburg on Tuesday, July 24, was honored for his 60 years of service as as a member of the Edinburg Volunteer Fire Department by the Hidalgo County Commissioners Court. Born on September 7, 1934 in Silver Creek, New York, Lodico began his service in Edinburg on September 8, 1952, a day after his 18th birthday. Since then, he has served as an active volunteer firefighter, and this year marks his 60th continuous year of volunteer service with the department. Throughout his career, Lodico has held numerous leadership positions within the department, including Assistant Fire Chief, and currently serves as Chief Emeritus, the highest honor in the Department. Lodico has served thousands of hours in emergency and fire service training in 31 subjects, and has mentored hundreds of young firefighters during his tenure, educating, listening, leading and guiding them in their lives. Lodico was joined by his wife Sharon and Deputy Chief Uvaldo Pérez, featured in the background, who spoke highly of Lodico’s commitment to the field and to his community.
••••••
Erica Rodríguez, Sabrina Rodríguez-Louck, and Johanna Sáenz, featured from left, the owners of the RGV Cupcake Factory in McAllen, on Tuesday, July 24, were honored by the Hidalgo County Commissioners Court for their successful participation in Cupcake Wars, a television show on the Food Network channel. Sabrina and Erica represented the RGV Cupcake Factory in the competition, excelling in all aspects of the competition to earn the $10,000 grand prize as the first Texas winners on the show. The commissioners court congratulated the women entrepreneurs for their success and for showcasing Hidalgo County and the Rio Grande Valley in such a positive light on national television. Following the ceremony, the commissioners court and the public were treated to samples of the now nationally-renowned and delectable cupcakes. The county leaders featured in the back row are, from left: Precinct 3 Commissioner Joe Flores; County Judge Ramón García; Precinct 2 Commissioner Héctor "Tito" Palacios; and Precinct 1 Commissioner Joel Quintanilla.
••••••
Bring out that sun screen and get ready for the Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Chamber’s “Jalapeño Golf Classic” on Saturday, August 25, at Los Lagos Golf Course in Edinburg. The event will feature cars from Frank Smith Toyota, Mercedes Benz, Boggus Ford and Clark Knapp Honda as the Hole-in-One prizes. A putting contest also will be available from Deutsch & Deutsch for a Caribbean Cruise or Honeymoon Package featuring several locations. Other competition will be the Longest Putt, Longest Drive, Closest to the Pin for A-B-C categories. Breakfast and Lunch will be served. Cocktails and refreshments will be made available by the Jalapeño Ladies during the entire tournament. Registration begins at 7 a.m. with tee time at exactly at 8 a.m. Door prizes are always plentiful. Sponsorships are still available at $4,000 for the Jalapeño Grande, $3,000 for the Shirt Sponsor, Cap Sponsorship at $1,500, Chili Piquin at $1,000 and a Hole Sponsorship at $75. Three-Man Teams are $500 with individual registrations at $150. Participants can promote their business while helping the Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce with their fundraiser. Promote your business while helping the RGVHCC with their fundraiser. More information on the tournament is available by calling the RGHVCC office at For more information on the tournament at 928-0060. Featured, front row from left, are Jalapeño Golf Classic committee members Cynthia M. Sakulenzki, president and CEO for the Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Donna Saccomanno and Ruthie McCollough. Back row from left are John Kowalski and Ronnie Bernal.
••••••
Paul R. Rodríguez, 58, of McAllen, who currently serves as President and Chief Executive Officer for Valley Land Title Company, on Tuesday, July 24, was unanimously selected by his now-six colleagues on the South Texas Board of Trustees as the replacement for the late Michael Allen, who had passed away almost two years ago. Rodríguez reflected on the loss suffered by the Allen family and the STC community as a result of the Allen’s untimely passing. “I take this assignment with some regret because Michael Allen was a tremendous asset to the state, city, and the college, but I am very humbled and flattered that I was selected among the distinguished list of candidates,” he said. “I am looking forward to working with my fellow board members, administrators, staff and students at STC to continue the momentum of progress it has made.” See story later in this posting.
•••••• (more…)
by Legislative Media | Jun 28, 2012 | Politics
Congressman Rubén Hinojosa, D-Mercedes, and Rep. Verónica Gonzáles, D-McAllen, featured third and second from the right, were among several dignitaries who were honored or featured on Friday, June 22, during the third annual Women’s Business Summit, which was held at the Edinburg Conference Center at Renaissance. Hinojosa received the “Small Business Community Champion Award” while Gonzáles received the “Community Advocacy Award” during the event, which included the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation as a sponsor. “Edinburg is blessed with private and public institutions, such as the Women’s Business Center, which provide our residents with the needed guidance, invaluable knowledge, and proven experience to help our residents provide for a better and more prosperous future for themselves and their families,” said Mayor Richard García, who also serves as the president of the EEDC Board of Directors, which is the jobs-creation of the Edinburg City Council. The mayor added, “Although the Women’s Business Summit is held only once a year, the Women’s Business Center in Edinburg and its outstanding professional staff are available year-round to help any Valley resident learn what it takes to start up and succeed with their own business. The tremendous services provided by the Women’s Business Center have benefited about 6,000 individuals, mostly women, since 2004.” Featured, from left: Sylvia Zamponi, District Director, Lower Rio Grande Valley District, U.S. Small Business Administration; Yvonne Bonnie González, Chief Executive Officer, Workforce Solutions; Dale Winter with Office Furniture USA; Yvonne García Olivarez, Regional Administrator, Region VI, U.S. Small Business Administration; Congressman Hinojosa; Rep. Gonzáles; and María,”Charo” Mann, Executive Director, Women’s Business Center. See lead story later in this posting.
••••••
The Edinburg Chamber of Commerce on Thursday, May 31, welcomed many of the business leaders who have served as former presidents and chairmen of the organization’s board of directors. The gathering, held at the Edinburg Depot, is an annual event hosted by the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce. They discussed ongoing programs and an update of the Depot Restoration Project. This special group of volunteer leaders have remained active and connected with the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce by continued involvement and support of the chamber’s programs long after they have served their terms as president and/or chairman of the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. Featured, from left, front row: Mike Govind, Best Western Plus; Letty González, President of the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce; Elva Jackson Garza, Edwards Abstract and Title Co.; Cynthia Bocanegra, Gold Financial Services; Edna Peña, the chamber’s current Chairman of the Board of Directors; Gotta Lovette; Lee Castro, Legacy Chapels Life Events Center; and Bob Gaston, Bob Gaston Realty. Featured, from left, back row: Ted Miller, Jr., Miller & Associates; Robert Gandy III, First National Bank; Byron Jay Lewis, Edwards Abstract and Title Co.; Jack McClelland, McClelland Electric; Mitch Roberts, LJ Roberts Family LP; and Jaime A. Rodríguez, JAR Group, who also represents the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce on the five-member EEDC Board of Directors. See story later in this posting.
••••••
On Thursday, August 16, starting at 5 p.m., Peace & Coffee “Hookah-Bar Lounge” will host the Live Art Auction benefiting Edinburg’s Rainbow Room. The admission price is $25 and includes wine and cheese hors d’oeuvres. The public is invited to support this important organization while bidding on an array of unique art from local Valley artists. The Rainbow Room is an emergency resource center available to CPS caseworkers to help them meet the critical needs of abused and neglected children. Rainbow Rooms provide everyday necessities such as clothing, shoes, baby formula, and school supplies. Featured, front row, from left: Eduardo Juvera; Lorena Paras; Alicia de León, the coordinator for Rainbow Room; Isaura Cisneros; Gilda González; and Camille Rich. Back row, from left: José Alfredo Alaniz; Johnny Rodríguez; and José Borrego. See story later in this posting.
••••••
With the Texas Legislature scheduled to return to work in January 2013, the Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is hosting their “Legislative Report Card Dinner” at the Cimarron Country Club in Mission on Thursday, July 19. Individual and group tickets/sponsorships are available for purchase from the RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce by contacting them at 928-0060. Scheduled to participate are Sen. Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa, D-McAllen; Sen. Eddie Lucio, Jr., D-Brownsville; Rep. Sergio Muñoz, Jr., D-Mission; Rep Armando “Mando” Martínez, D-Weslaco; Rep. René Oliveira, D-Brownsville; Rep. Eddie Lucio, III, D-Harlingen; Rep. Ryan Guillen, D-Rio Grande City; and Rep.-elect Óscar Longoria, D-La Joya. Officials will report on the legislation they filed and passed in 2011 and how those measures are affecting the Rio Grande Valley. In addition, the state lawmakers will preview the respective legislative agenda for action by the state legislature during the five-month regular session that begins next January. Following the legislators’ presentations, audience members will be able to share their concerns during an open floor discussion. Sponsors will get to sit with an elected official during the dinner. Featured helping plan the event are, seated, from left: Marti Miller and Yoli González; and standing, from left: Dr. Robert S. Nelsen, president of the University of Texas-Pan American; and Cynthia M. Sakulenzki, president and CEO for the Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
••••••
Congressman Henry Cuellar, D-Laredo/McAllen – featured here in this file photograph – on Tuesday, June 12, congratulated Workforce Solutions and the Border Workforce Alliance (BWA) after the U.S. Department of Labor announced that it has awarded a Workforce Innovation Fund Grant in the amount of $5,999,998 to Workforce Solutions of McAllen, as the lead entity for the BWA. The BWA is a consortium of the five workforce boards located along the Texas-Mexico border. Earlier this year, Cuellar wrote a letter to U.S. Department of Labor Assistant Secretary Jane Oates in support of the BWA’s application for this grant. The BWA will use the Workforce Innovation Fund Grant to fund a workforce project called Growing Regional Opportunity for the Workforce (GROW), an ambitious regional workforce and economic development initiative that aims to increase literacy and skills training for lower-skilled workers in the Texas-Mexico border region. See story later in this posting.
••••••
The South Texas Lyric Opera, the City of Edinburg, the Edinburg Edinburg Economic Development Corporation, and Edinburg Arts on Saturday, July 14, will be presenting A Night at the Opera, featuring extraordinary talent Hannah Urías (featured in this image) and Friends, who is the 2012 Nordan Young Artist Award Winner, under the leadership of General Director and Conductor Maestro Mazias de Oliveira. The performance will be conducted in the historic Edinburg Auditorium, located at 415 West University Drive. Complimentary hours d’ oeuvres and refreshments will be served at 8 p.m. and the show will begin at 8:30 p.m. Tickets to attend the show are $25 apiece. All interested attendees should call 956/872-6478 to purchase tickets. This first show will mark the beginning of several shows, operas and performances with the South Texas Lyric Opera. See story later in this posting.
••••••
With 12 winning entries, Sen. Judith Zaffirini, D-Laredo, featured in this file photograph, is the sweepstakes winner in the Press Women of Texas (PWT) 2012 Communications Contest for work published in 2011. Because her multiple winning entries earned her more points than any other entrant, she won the contest’s Sweepstakes Award for the second consecutive year. The senator’s award winners include her news releases regarding higher education issues; Senate floor speeches in opposition to voter ID and sanctuary cities legislation; her annual newsletter to constituents; and the website of the Joint Oversight Committee on Higher Education Governance, Excellence and Transparency. See story later in this posting.
••••••
Since 1987, Leadership Edinburg has been introducing its classes to the community to encourage a better Edinburg and help make a long-term impact. On Wednesday, May 23, the twenty-third anniversary of Leadership Edinburg was highlighted with the graduation of 10 participants during a ceremony held at the Echo Hotel and Conference Center. Class XXIII completed several events, including a two-day leadership retreat, and sessions that focused on education, healthcare, history, media, economics and government. This year The Edinburg Leadership Class XXIII presented a check of $20,000 to the Edinburg Police Department for a “shoot house” training facility that was initiated by the class to start Phase 1 of the project. Featured, from left: Aaron I. Vela ( Law Office of Aaron I. Vela), Jason De León (Memorial Funeral Home), Sandra Quintanilla Guzmán (The University of Texas-Pan American), Brenda Almaguer (First National Bank), Martín Rivas (Edinburg Chamber of Commerce), Criselda Ordóñez (Merrill Lynch), Marissa Castañeda (Doctor’s Hospital at Renaissance), Samuel Trejo (International Bank of Commerce), and keynote speaker Carlos X. Guerra (La Muñeca Cattle Co.) Not pictured are graduates Felicia Ramirez (IDEA Public Schools) and SJ Sethi (The University of Texas-Pan American). See story later in this posting.
••••••
The successful Friday, June 22 Women’s Business Summit was made possible by the expert planning of the event’s coordinating committee, featured here recently as the finalized details for the gathering. María “Charo” Mann, Executive Director for the Women’s Business Center, noted that “women are playing a central role in rebuilding the middle class and keeping our economy growing. Women represent one of the fastest?growing segments of the economy. Women continue to start businesses in this country, making it imperative for them to have the right tools to be successful.” Shown from left: Bianca Cantú; Veronica Padilla with the U.S. Small Business Administration; Dale Winter with Office Furniture USA; Sonya Anciso with Ergo Medics; Yolanda Salinas with Wells Fargo Bank; Celine Schulz with New York Life; and María “Charo” Mann with the Women’s Business Center in Edinburg. See lead story later in this posting.
••••••
(more…)
by Legislative Media | May 24, 2012 | Politics
Sen. Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa, D-McAllen, was recently honored at a special celebration for his support for higher education during a gathering hosted by South Texas College at its Pecan Campus in McAllen. “What many people still don’t understand and I continually say is that here in the Valley you can really get a very solid higher education,” said Hinojosa. “This is a great country we live in. When I graduated college, I had several offers to attend law school and I went to Georgetown University. At first I felt out of place, but what I found is that Valley students can compete anywhere.” Featured, from left: STC Valley Scholars Program students Aurora Castillo and Maribel Bernal; Sen. Hinojosa; and Valley Scholars Ilsse Gracia, Mario Cerda, Karla Martínez and Gabrielle Marroquín. See story later in this posting.
••••••
Newly-elected Edinburg City Councilmember J.R. Betancourt, featured right, takes his oath of office from Hidalgo County 92nd District Court Judge Ricardo Rodriguez, Jr., on Tuesday, May 15, while Betancourt’s wife, Renée Rodríguez-Betancourt, holds the Bible used for the ceremony. Betancourt, an Edinburg native, on Saturday, May 12, was elected to fill the unexpired term of former Mayor Pro Tem Noé Garza, who passed away in early January after battling cancer. Betancourt would be able to seek a full-four year term on the city council when the Place 2 seat is up for election in May 2013.
••••••
With the May 15 swearing-in of its latest member, J.R. Betancourt, featured second from right, the Edinburg City Council is at full strength to continue promoting economic development strategies and legislative policies that have helped Edinburg, according to Forbes magazine, to be part of one of the best medium-size regions in the U.S. for the creation of jobs. In its findings released on May 1, Forbes determined that the McAllen-Edinburg-Pharr-Mission MSA registered a 3.8 percent growth in jobs, and this year’s third-best ranking comes after an equally impressive 2011 showing, when the South Texas MSA was rated 6th among medium-size populations nationwide. Featured, from left: Mayor Pro Tem Gus García, Jr.; Councilmember Elias Longoria, Jr.; Mayor Richard García; Councilmember J.R. Betancourt; and Councilmember Homer Jasso, Jr. See story later in this posting.
••••••
Dr. René Gutiérrez, featured center, the superintendent for the Edinburg school district, on May 8 received the Excellence in Educational Leadership Award from the University Council for Educational Administration. The honor was bestowed upon the superintendent during the regular meeting of the Edinburg school district’s Board of Trustees. Gutiérrez, who has been superintendent since July 2009, has exhibited clear-cut leadership that has met challenging issues head-on and brought about results that have enabled the district to maintain an impeccable record in student achievement, fiscal management, personnel development, transparency, school construction, public relations, crisis management, and parental involvement. Featured participating in the ceremony are, from first row, from left: Dr. Velma Menchaca, a professor with the Department of Educational Leadership at the University of Texas-Pan American; Dr. Gutiérrez; and Dr. Anita Pankake a professor with the Department of Educational Leadership at UT-Pan American. Back row, from left, are: Dr. Alejos Salinas, Jr., a member of the Board of Trustees for South Texas College who also serves as a lecturer with the Department of Educational Leadership at UT-Pan American; and Dr. Francisco Guajardo, an associate professor with the Department of Educational Leadership at UT-Pan American.
••••••
The McAllen Chamber of Commerce Top 25 Committee on Wednesday, May 22, hosted their 28th Annual Top 25 Banquet that honored the top 25 academically performing graduates of McAllen High School, McAllen Memorial High School, and Nikki Rowe High Schools, plus the Top 4 Achieve Early College High School Students. Each student was awarded a $1,000 scholarship. “We were very excited to sponsor the Top 25 Banquet for another year,” said Luis Cantú, Vice President of Community Development for the McAllen Chamber of Commerce. “Being able to raise the money to provide these McAllen school district students with a scholarship is always very pleasing.” Top 25 Committee members are featured, seated from left: Yajaira Villarreal; Cynthia Olivarez; Maryiel García; and Isela Herrera; and standing, from left: Luis Cantú; and Antonio Rosales, committee chairman. See story later in this posting.
••••••
Southwest Airlines, located at the Rio Grande Valley International Airport in Harlingen, has become the latest partner for the Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. “It gives us great pleasure to be able to call Southwest Airlines our corporate partner”, said Cynthia M. Sakulenzki, president and CEO of the McAllen-based chamber. “Southwest Airlines recognizes that their customers come from all over the Valley.” There are several events that the Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce has scheduled which will require a combined partnership with Southwest Airlines to accommodate convention guests and state meetings scheduled in the Valley. Featured, from left: Christina Rivers, Southwest Airlines customer service agent; Becky Kirkpatrick, Southwest Airlines customer service agent; Mario Garza, Southwest Airlines station manager; Lily Colón, Southwest Airlines customer service supervisor; and Cynthia M. Sakulenzki, president and CEO of the Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
••••••
Yolanda Villescas of Edinburg, featured first row, center, on Tuesday, May 15, was honored by the Hidalgo County Commissioners Court with a resolution recognizing her retirement and 34 years of public service with the county government. Villescas’ impressive career with Hidalgo County began as a tax clerk in 1976, then saw her advance through the system until she attained the high-ranking level of tax collection manager for the Hidalgo County Tax Office. Featured, front row, from left: Son-in-law Agustín Hernández, Jr.; daughter Bianca Hernández; husband Xavier Villescas; Yolanda Villescas; Hidalgo County Tax Assessor-Collector Armando Barrera; and son Jaime Villescas. Back row, from left: Precinct 4 County Commissioner Joseph Palacios; Precint 3 County Commissioner Joe M. Flores; Hidalgo County Judge Ramón García; Precinct 2 County Commissioner Héctor “Tito” Palacios; and Precinct 1 County Commissioner Joel Quintanilla.
••••••
Mónica Pérez, featured front row, second from left, who is a fifth grade teacher at Esparza Elementary, and G. Marivel Vela-De la Rosa, front row, second from right, who is a middle school teacher at Brewster School, were named Secondary and Elementary Teachers of the Year for Edinburg at the recent District Teacher of the Year Banquet. The pair was selected from a list of seven finalists narrowed down by a committee composed of community members, business persons, and educators. Both Vela-De la Rosa and Pérez received a recognition plaque and a $1,200 check from the Edinburg Teachers Credit Union, plus they were surprised the next day with a beautiful bouquet of flowers. As Secondary and Elementary Teachers of the Year, Vela-De la Rosa and Pérez will be the keynote speakers at the 2012-2013 General Assembly for Edinburg school district. A total of 41 elementary and secondary teachers were also recognized at the District Teacher of the Year Banquet with a recognition plaque and a $200 check. Featured, front row, from left: Carmen González, president of the Edinburg school board; Mónica Pérez, Elementary Teacher of the Year; G. Marivel Vela-De la Rosa, Secondary Teacher of the Year; and Juan “Sonny” Palacios, vice president of the Edinburg school board. Standing, from left: David Torres, member of the Edinburg school board; Dr. René Gutiérrez, Superintendent of Schools; and Robert Peña Jr., member of the Edinburg school board.
••••••
On Wednesday, May 9, Bob Vackar, owner of Bert Ogden Dealer Group, featured fifth from left, and Robert Lucio, general manager for Bert Ogden Dealer Group, featured fifth from right, provided leaders with the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation and the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce with highlights of the economic impact generated by the homegrown company, and explained how that data is used to benefit the entire city. Their presentation was held at the company’s latest addition, Volvo of Edinburg, located at 4421 South Business 281. The two men were the distinguished speakers for the chamber’s Power Punch @ Lunch business mixer provided for its members. With more than $200 million in sales revenue generated in 2011 by Bert Ogden Dealer Group’s vehicle franchises in Edinburg, even much larger cities would be happy to be the hometown to such an economic success story. Featured, from left: Johnny Rodríguez, former chairman of the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors; Flo Prater, an ambassador for the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce; Jaime A. Rodríguez, a member of the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation Board of Directors; Will McCullough; Bob Vackar, owner of Bert Ogden Dealer Group; Robert Lucio, general manager for Bert Ogden Dealer Group; Letty González, president of the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce; Edna Peña, chairman of the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors; and Maggie Kent and Marty Martin, members of the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. See lead story in this posting.
(more…)
by Legislative Media | May 3, 2012 | Politics
Edinburg will be the center of Democratic political action on Wednesday evening, May 9, when dozens of candidates for offices in Hidalgo County – including for the open House District 40 state representative seat based in Edinburg – along with sheriff, state senator, and U.S. representative, will gather at the Courtyard at Edinburg City Hall to meet voters. The event, which is being sponsored by the Hidalgo County Democratic Party, is free and open to the public. It will be held from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. In a related development, polling locations have been finalized by the Hidalgo County Elections Department and are available on its elections website,http://www.co.hidalgo.tx.us/elections. Early voting for the 2012 Democratic and Republican primary elections begins on Monday, May 14, and ends on Friday, May 25. Election day for the party primaries is Tuesday, May 29. See story on Elections Department preparations later in this posting.
••••••
Ramón Ramírez, Jr., an educator, cartoonist and motivational speaker with 20 years of experience in teaching and 25 years of experience in cartooning, will be the featured artist on Friday, May 11, during Jardín del Arte at the Courtyard at Edinburg City Hall. The outdoor event, which is free and open to the public, will be held from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the venue, located at 415 West University Drive. In addition to Ramírez’ work, the May 11 Jardín del Arte will showcase art exhibitions from other local artists plus live music. Area residents who attend will be able to purchase food and beverages from participating Edinburg restaurants and vendors. Ramírez is known for creating projects such as Teacher Toons, Only in the Valley, Dating Toons, Social Work Toons, and his latest project, Raza Toons. See story later in this posting.
••••••
Edinburg school board member David Torres, featured left, and Juan R. López, AICP, Director of Planning and Zoning for the City of Edinburg, wear hair nets and sanitary gloves as they help serve meals to youngsters on Friday, April 20, as part of the celebration of Boys and Girls Club Week in Edinburg. Torres and López were participating in the event in their roles as community leaders, joining other members of the Lions and Kiwanis Clubs of Edinburg and the Edinburg Volunteer Fire Department during the Kids Café Program. “We wanted to provide a positive environment where the kids, firemen and civic leaders could interact,” said Sabrina Walker-Hernández, Chief Professional Officer for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV. “The kids were really impressed that they all took the time from their schedules to serve them.” The ‘servers’ not only assisted in food preparation but they also served more than 230 meals and drinks to the Club kids. During their interaction with Club members, the community leaders asked the youngsters questions, and the children learned about their guests’ respective organizations. The Club has moved its main site and administration to its new building, The Legacy Center, located at 702 Cullen Street (Rogers Road and U.S. Expressway 281). The Club offers programs that emphasize character and leadership development, education and career development, health and life skills, the arts, and sport, fitness and recreation. Log on to http://www.EdinburgKids.com for more information about the Club or by calling 956-383-2582.
••••••
Members from Edinburg Arts, the City of Edinburg, the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation, and the Dustin Michael Sekula Memorial Library recently met with the Mexican Consulate to discuss ongoing plans for a Cinco de Mayo Celebration and Mexican Artisan Fair in Edinburg scheduled for Friday, May 4, and Saturday, May 5. Artisans from Mexico will be selling their wares, including candies, textiles, artwork, jewelry, home décor, toys, a variety of foods, spices and more. Mariachi and Ballet Folklorico also will be featured. Special guest Dr. Bernardo Ibarrola, a Mexican historian, will be speaking about Cinco de Mayo and why it is celebrated. Among the other festivities will be an art exhibit, organized by Edinburg Arts and the University of Texas Pan-American, that will be on display in Edinburg City Hall. A Cinco de Mayo Salsa Contest will include prizes. More information on the two-day celebration is available by e-mailing[email protected] or by calling 956/383-7124. Featured, from left: Erasmo R. Martínez, the Mexican Consulate; Letty Leija, Director, Edinburg Public Library, José Martínez, Assistant Director, Edinburg Public Library; Alyssa Chapa, Public Information Specialist, City of Edinburg; and Claudia MA. Trujillo Hernández, Coordinator of External Affairs, Mexican Consulate.
•••••
Congressman Rubén Hinojosa, D-Mercedes, who also serves as 1st Vice Chairman of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), on Friday, April 20, joined other members of the CHC, DREAM Act activists and young Latino voters on Capitol Hill to denounce a new and developing version being proposed by Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Florida. First introduced in Congress in 2001, the DREAM (Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors) Act proposes to provide conditional permanent residency – which in some cases could lead to citizenship – for certain undocumented children. A version of the DREAM Act, which passed the U.S. House of Representatives in December 2010 but was blocked from receiving a vote in the U.S. Senate, is supported by Hinojosa. But many Republicans fear that version could lead to amnesty for undocumented residents. Under a proposal being floated by Rubio, undocumented residents who met standards of the DREAM Act could stay in the U.S. indefinitely, with a special immigration permit, but they would not be granted citizenship unless they went through the U.S. naturalization process. See story later in this posting.
••••••
Congressman Henry Cuellar, D-Laredo/McAllen was honored on Wednesday, April 25, as a “Champion of Healthcare Innovation” by the Healthcare Leadership Council, a coalition of leaders of the nation’s premier healthcare companies and organizations. The award ceremony took place in Washington, D.C. “As a representative of one of the most uninsured districts in the nation, expanding access to quality, affordable healthcare is a priority of mine because far too many people in South Texas live in medically underserved communities, and far too few of them have the insurance they need,” said Cuellar. “I am honored to receive this award for my work to support and expand America’s health care system, and I thank the Healthcare Leadership Council for promoting these important goals.” Mary R. Grealy, president of the Healthcare Leadership Council, presented Cuellar with the honor. See story later in this posting.
••••••
Hidalgo County Precinct 4 Commissioner Joseph Palacios, featured second from left, on Monday, April 2, was recognized by Edinburg school and city leaders for his and his staff’s work on a protective barrier at Betty Harwell Middle School. On Tuesday, January 24, Dr. René Gutiérrez, superintendent for the Edinburg school district, addressed the Hidalgo County Commissioners Court and secured an interlocal agreement between Hidalgo County Precinct 4, led by Palacios, and the Edinburg school district to provide for the construction of protective barriers around Carmen Ávila Elementary and Harwell Middle School. This action represented a solution to an issue that was widely publicized late last year, when two middle school students were injured after being hit by stray bullets from a nearby ranch. Through the agreement, Precinct 4 donated dirt to help construct protective barriers to surround the school. The school district shall pay the county for materials, equipment and personnel costs for construction of the protective barrier. Gutiérrez hopes the joint program will decrease the possibility of any future occurrences and help to ease some of the concerns for safety and security of students at the schools. Featured, from left: Juan “Sonny” Palacios, Jr., vice president of the Edinburg school board; Commissioner Palacios; Carmen González, president of the Edinburg school board; Superintendent Gutiérrez; Shawn Snider, acting city manager for Edinburg; and David Torres, member of the Edinburg school board.
••••••
Ambassadors for the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce (ECOC) on Wednesday, April 4, presented an early Easter present to 10 children from the Edinburg Boys and Girls Club. The colorful baskets, which were filled with candy and toys, served as a symbol of love and joy for the youths. Area businesses donated funds for the gifts. The ECOC Ambassador program is a group of members who act as public relations representatives of the chamber. Featured, first row seated from left: Lidia Díaz, representing All Tune and Lube; Letty González, president of the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce; Cindy Castillo, representing the Boys and Girls Club; Charlene Kurpel, representing Thrivent Insurance; and Mary González, representing Texas National Bank. Standing, middle row from left: Flo Prater, representing Rio Valley Realty; Naomi Perales, representing Texas Gas Services; Dina Araguz, representing International Bank of Commerce; Patricia Galindo, representing Valley Land Title Company; Marty Martin, representing Rio Valley Realty; Juan Tijerina, representing RGV-Statewide Insurance; and Alex Ríos, representing Kids Kollege Learning Center. Standing, back row from left: Martín Rivas, representing the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce; and J.P. Tilburg, representing Security Depot, Inc. More information on the Ambassadors program and the chamber is available by calling 956/383-4974 or by logging on to http://www.Edinburg.com.
••••••
The Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce will host a Mothers Day Extravaganza on Thursday, May 10, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Legacy Event Center in Edinburg. The highlights of the evening will include the announcement of the “Mother of the Year”, when five deserving women – living and deceased – will be recognized for their remarkable lives. Tickets for the event are $25 each, reserved tables of 10 are $300 (with priority seating), and sponsorships that include a display table range from $500 to $3,000 each. Exhibitor tables are also available for those wishing to sell their items or services. For more information on the Mothers Day Extravaganza, please call the RGVHCC office at 928-0060. Featured, from left, are representatives of the stores participating in one of the evening’s events, the Style Show: Gloria Treviño (WalMart); Anyssa Dimas and Destiny Rodríguez (Spa La Posada); Becky Malcik (Bec’s Fashions); Anna Hernández (Our Secret); Marti Miller (member of the host committee); Mary Dumond (Boot Jack); and Yoli González, (member of the host committee). Other key sponsors are Wells of Weslaco and Olivia’s Fashions. See story later in this posting.
••••••
(more…)
by Legislative Media | Apr 15, 2012 | Politics
Sen. Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa, D-McAllen, featured center, standing, on Saturday, March 24, was honored for his legislative achievements and contributions by the Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, which bestowed its Golden Eagle Award for 2012 on the veteran state lawmaker. The Golden Eagle Award is presented every year to an individual who has excelled in promoting the best interests of the Rio Grande Valley. Hinojosa received the honor during the chamber’s annual Noche de Gala, held at The Legacy Event Center in Edinburg. Featured, seated from left: Eli Ochoa, founder, president and CEO of ERO Architects, who was chosen as Business Man of the Year; Melisa Smith representing Frank Smith Toyota, which was selected Medium Corporation of the Year; and Lucy and Armando Regalado, owners of Collision Center, named Small Corporation of the Year. Standing, from left: Ronnie Bernal, general manager for Frank Smith Toyota; Sen. Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa, D-McAllen, the 2012 Golden Eagle Award recipient; and Eloy Cruz representing HEB, which was named Large Corporation of the Year. Not shown are Val LaMantia Peisen, a member of a prominent McAllen family which owns L&F Distributors, who was named Business Woman of the Year; and Mr. and Mrs. Lee and Illiana Cabrera, honored as Volunteers of the Year. See story on Sen. Hinojosa later in this posting.
••••••
On Wednesday, March 7, Edinburg Mayor Richard García, flanked by video screens at the City Auditorium, delivered the annual State of the City Address, which featured highlights of major activities and successes by the Edinburg City Council and its jobs-creation arm, the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation, during 2011. “What a year we’ve had in Edinburg,” the mayor proclaimed. “If I had to choose one word to describe the activity that occurred in our city in 2011, that word would be success, which leads me to believe that either someone up there likes us or we’re doing something right.” The full text of his presentation, plus comments from other business and community leaders who were featured in news videos during the mayor’s presentation, are included at the end of this posting.
••••••
Freddy González Elementary Principal Arnoldo F. Benavides, a 47-year veteran educator at the Edinburg Consolidated Independent School District, was recently named one of 10 regional finalists in the 2012 H-E-B Excellence in Education Elementary Principal Award category. An H-E-B delegation paid a surprise visit to Freddy Gonzalez Elementary to recognize Benavides as a regional finalist. Each regional finalist is awarded $1,000 plus $2,500 for their respective school. The regional secondary and elementary principal finalists will be interviewed by a panel of judges in May, during the H-E-B celebratory dinner in Houston. Two grand-prize winner principals will be chosen from among the 10 regional finalists. Each winning grand-prize principal — one elementary school and one high school — will each receive $10,000 in cash for themselves and a $25,000 grant for their schools. Created in 2002, the H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards are designed to honor outstanding public school professionals and to thank them for their dedication and commitment. Through this program, H-E-B seeks to pay tribute to those educators who go the extra mile each and every day to serve their students and their communities and who inspire others to do the same.
••••••
Dr. René Gutiérrez, superintendent for the Edinburg school district, on March 9 presented a framed letter of appreciation to U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan during a visit in San Antonio by Gutiérrez and a delegation of 15 other school district superintendents from Region One Service Center in Edinburg, which represents the Rio Grande Valley and Laredo. The letter was from Daniela Galván, a fourth grade student at Guerra Elementary, recognizing Duncan’s support for education and technology. Galván is the daughter of Laura Aguirre and Javier Cerda. The session, hosted at Fox Technical High School in San Antonio, featured discussions on a wide range of educational issues spanning topics “from cradle to grave.”
••••••
Edinburg North High School Principal Ramiro Guerra, a 32-year veteran educator at Edinburg CISD, has been named one of 10 regional finalists in the 2012 H-E-B Excellence in Education Secondary Principal Award category. An H-E-B delegation recently paid a surprise visit to ENHS to recognize Guerra as a regional finalist. Guerra has served as ENHS principal for seven years, and previously served as ENHS assistant principal for six years. Each regional finalist is awarded a $1,000 plus $2,500 for their respective school. Featured participating in the $1,000 check presentation, from left: Dr. René Gutiérrez, Superintendent of Schools; Robert Pena, Jr., Edinburg school board trustee; School Trustee; and the H-E-Buddy look on proudly. The regional secondary and elementary principal finalists will be interviewed by a panel of judges at the H-E-B celebratory dinner in Houston in May who will then select the two grand-prize winner principals from among the 10 regional finalists. Each winning grand-prize principal—one elementary school and one high school—will each receive $10,000 in cash for themselves and a $25,000 grant for their schools. Created in 2002, the H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards are designed to honor outstanding public school professionals and to thank them for their dedication and commitment. Through this program, H-E-B seeks to pay tribute to those educators who go the extra mile each and every day to serve their students and their communities and who inspire others to do the same.
••••••
The Women’s Business Center – in partnership with the U.S. Small Business Administration, Wells Fargo Bank, H&R Block, PRIME and ZERHIN — on Saturday, March 31, hosted a first of its kind event, the “Business Plan Boot Camp,” which provided one-on-one business consultation for aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners who sought to learn the process of putting together a business plan. The “Business Plan Boot Camp”, which included two sessions, was held at the Women’s Business Center headquarters located at 2314 West University Drive, Suite 230 in Edinburg. Featured, standing from left: Rolando Fernández De Lara with Wells Fargo Bank; Oriol Zertuche with ZERHIN; Abel González with ZERHIN; Thalia Hernández with the Women’s Business Center; Javier Hinojosa with ZERHIN: María Pérez with the U.S. Small Business Administration; and Bret Mann with PRIME. Seated, from left: María Mann, executive director with the Women’s Business Center; and Jocelyn Olmedo, Marcela Salinas, and José Enríquez with the Women’s Business Center. Not shown are Judi Flowers from Wells Fargo Bank and Gayle Rice from H&R Block. See story later in this posting.
••••••
The McAllen Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors on Wednesday, April 18, will host a business luncheon with leaders of Reynosa’s Chambers of Commerce and Industry to continue fostering the relationship between both groups and their constituents. The event will be held at the McAllen chamber’s headquarters, 1200 Ash Avenue. “The McAllen and Reynosa chambers share common interests and problems,” said Luis Cantú, vice president of Inter American Relations for the McAllen chamber. “Providing the opportunity to our board members to meet some of the chamber leaders from Reynosa is also a very important step towards improving our chamber international relations.” Featured promoting the event are Karen Valdez, Chairman of the Board of Directors, McAllen Chamber of Commerce, and Luis Cantú. Additional information on attending the luncheon is available by contacting Cantú at 956/682-2871.
•••••• (more…)
by Legislative Media | Feb 7, 2012 | Politics
Lori A. Garza of Edinburg and Lizza Marie Moya of Dallas, daughters of the late Edinburg Mayor Pro Tem Noé Garza on Tuesday, January 24, received a resolution from the Hidalgo County Commissioners Court in honor of their father, who passed away on Monday, January 9. The county leaders noted his many contributions for Edinburg residents, including helping in the development of Edinburg City Hall, the city’s water plant, and the upgrading and expansion of the city’s fire department, among many other achievements. Featured, from left: County Commissioner Héctor “Tito” Palacios; County Commissioner Joseph Palacios; Lori A. Garza; Lizza Marie Moya; County Judge Ramón García; and County Commissioner Joel Quintanilla. Earlier in January, the late mayor pro tem’s life and legacy were honored by the Edinburg City Council. See story later in this posting.
••••••
Father Adán Sandoval, from Our Lady of the Mount in Cicero, Illinois, on Thursday, January 26, walked along the first phase of the planned $100 million Rio Grande Produce Park, one of Edinburg’s latest economic miracles, as he performed a benediction for the ultra-modern complex. The Catholic priest was accompanied by José Luis González, the developer of the Rio Grande Produce Park, for the ceremony. Up to 200 permanent employees are expected to be hired to manage and operate the first of nine planned facilities, an innovative structure that boasts about 160,000 square feet of cold storage capabilities designed to protect and extend the shelf-life of huge volumes of valuable Mexican produce destined for major markets in Texas and throughout the U.S. But plans call for Rio Grande Valley Produce Park, a private investment located on an 87-acre site near the intersection of FM 2812 and U.S. Expressway 281, to eventually reach 800 – and perhaps as many as 1,000 – new jobs over the next eight years. See story later in this posting.
••••••
The Hidalgo County Elections Department recently deputized district clerk staff to serve as Deputy Registrars. As such, constituents can officially register to vote at the District Clerk Office, located on the first floor of the courthouse, without having to be redirected to the Elections Office across the street. “We are proud to be able to provide voter registration services for individuals visiting the courthouse, while contributing to the overall voter registration efforts in Hidalgo County,” said Laura Hinojosa, Hidalgo County District Clerk. “We look forward to providing this service during this year’s election process and beyond.” The Elections Office conducted a training for district clerk staff to become familiar with the instructions and guidelines required to perform the duties of a Volunteer Deputy Registrar. The Advocacy Alliance Center of Texas (AACT), a non-profit organization established to cultivate voter empowerment, was also on hand to provide education on the importance of voting and the electoral process. “I encourage the citizens of Hidalgo County to register and then vote. Voting is pertinent, as this gives our county a strong voice. Do not hesitate to contact my office with any questions or concerns,” said Yvonne Ramón, Hidalgo County Elections Administrator. For more information regarding how to become a Volunteer Voter Registrar and other voter information, logon to http://www.co.hidalgo.tx.us/elections. Voter information is also available at http://www.aactnow.org. Featured, from left, front row: Yanira Hernández, Mónica Valdéz, Sandra Garza, Melinda De La Garza, and Andrëa Guajardo. Back row, from left: Omar Escamilla and Alfonso Fuentes.
••••••
Leadership Edinburg is a program designed by the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce to allow the class members to interact with one another and members of the community to help shape a better Edinburg. The nine month program is structured to allow class members better understand the problems and opportunities faced by their hometown, and to help fellow citizens through strong leadership skills that focus on politics, education, and improving the quality of life. Leadership Edinburg Class XXIII, featured here, is in the process of fundraising to complete several projects that include assisting the Edinburg Police Department with construction of a training shoot house, granting scholarships to Edinburg students, renovating portions of the exterior of the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce building, and helping fund the development of a city park for disabled children. Featured, from left: Jason De León; Samuel Trejo; SJ Sethi; Martín Rivas; Criselda Ordóñez; Brenda Almaguer; Felicia Monique Villarreal; Sandra Quintanilla Guzmán; Aaron I. Vela; and Marissa Castañeda. See story later in this posting.
••••••
Claudia Berenice Garza, whose many paintings and murals have been commissioned by public and private interests throughout the Valley, will be the featured artist on Friday, February 10, during the monthly Jardín del Arte (Garden of Art) set for the Courtyard at Edinburg City Hall. The event, which will include musical entertainment, is free and open to the public. Jardín del Arte will be held from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Residents who attend will be able to purchase art work and buy food and beverages from participating Edinburg restaurants – La Pesca, Panini Café & Deli, El Jinete and Coffee Zone – which will be showcasing their products at the gathering. Kim Snyder will be providing the musical entertainment for the evening, and Dancer’s Creative Motion will have a special dance performance. As part of the community’s strategy to incorporate the local arts community into economic development goals, Jardín del Arte was created in 2011 in order to feature the fine arts talent in the three-time All-America City. See story later in this posting.
••••••
The Edinburg Chamber of Commerce on Thursday, January 26, welcomed Jeanette García, featured center, a local archivist and librarian, for a book signing ceremony promoting the sale of Images of America – Edinburg, which is part of Arcadia Publishing’s popular Images of America Series. The book includes more than 200 vintage images and memories of the days gone by. García, an archivist and librarian at the University of Texas-Pan American, collected photographs and stories from the University of Texas-Pan American Library Archives and Special Collections, the Museum of South Texas History, and other individuals for the book. It may be purchased at the following locations: the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce; Walgreens (Edinburg locations); Mission Historical Museum; Ochoa’s Pharmacy; Museum of South Texas History; Coffee Zone; Mailbox Depot; Garza Pharmacy; and Barnes and Noble in McAllen or online at http://www.BN.com. Featured, from left: Imelda Rodríguez, tourism director for the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce; author Jeanette García; and Letty González, president of the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce.
••••••
For its efforts to reduce the incidence of ventilator-associated pneumonia, pressure ulcers and health care-acquired infections, South Texas Health System (STHS), based in Edinburg, has been honored with the Texas Hospital Association’s 2011 Bill Aston Award for Quality in the Non-Research, Non-Teaching Hospital category. Established in 2010, the award recognizes a hospital’s measurable success in improving quality and patient outcomes through the sustained implementation of a national and/or state evidence-based patient care initiative. Gloria Vela, South Texas Health System’s director of education, and Joanne Shannon, system infection prevention coordinator, accepted the award on Thursday, February 2 at the THA Annual Conference and Expo in Austin. Featured, from left: Dan Stultz, M.D., FACP, FACHE, president/CEO of the Texas Hospital Association ; Gloria Vela, RN, MSN, System Director of Education/Employee Health, South Texas Hospital System; Joanne Shannon, RN, System Infection Prevention Coordinator, STHS; Michael La Coste, FACHE, MHA, MBA, Associate Administrator for Edinburg Children’s Hospital, Edinburg Regional Medical Center and Edinburg Regional Rehab Center; and Tim Lancaster, FACHE, president/CEO of Hendrick Health System in Abilene and 2012 Texas Hospital Association chairman. See story later in this posting.
••••••
The final results are in for the winners of the Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce’s “Medical Awards for 2012”, who were publicly recognized on Thursday, January 26, during a dinner held at the Club at Cimaron in Mission. Since the medical community plays a major role in the Valley, both professionally and economically, the RGV Hispanic Chamber honored the top professionals in their particular fields, who were nominated by the general public. Featured, seated, from left, are: Dr. Khaimchand Panday, Specialty Doctor; Dr. Jorge A. Treviño, General Physician; and Shelley Bryant, Nurse Practitioner. Middle row, from left: Joe B. Riley, CEO of South Texas Health Systems; Mario Garza, Nurse; Gloria Jiménez, Volunteer; Lisa Longoria, Physician Assistant; and Hari Namboodiri, Nursing Home of the Year. Back row, from left: Ryan Jensen, Associate Administrator of McAllen Medical Center; and Jennifer Garza, CEO of Edinburg Children’s Hospital/Edinburg Regional Hospital. See story later in this posting.
••••••
Mitch Roberts, named last fall as Man of the Year by the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce, carries his family name as a badge of honor. Born into a prominent local family, the longtime business leader and community advocate could have taken his University of Texas at Austin pedigree and set up shop in any number of major cities nationwide. Instead, he came back from UT Austin to Edinburg as fast as he could, willing to live up to the high expectations and record of public service built over several generations of his family. Last October, for their respective records of giving back to their community, Roberts and Elva Jackson Garza (see story on Jackson in the December 16, 2011 edition of http://www.EdinburgPolitics.com) were honored as Man of the Year and Woman of the Year by the local chamber of commerce. See story on Roberts later in this posting.
••••••
Bert Ogden, Fiesta Chevrolet and the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce have joined forces to sponsor the annual Fiesta Edinburg 2012, which will run from Thursday, February 23, through Sunday, February 26, at Edinburg Municipal Park. Top-quality entertainment will be featured during Fiesta Edinburg 2012, including I Love, Mayberry, Grupo Avizo, David Marez and Joe Bravo on Friday, February 24. On Saturday, February 25, more musical performers will take the stage, including Jeremiah, Dance Gavin Dance, Jaime y Los Chamacos, and Ricardo Castillón y La Diferencia. In addition to its traditional parade, which will be held on Saturday morning, February 25, Fiesta Edinburg 2012 will feature the Heart of America Carnival, Family Fun Zone, and a Bike Show. There are admission fees to most aspects of Fiesta Edinburg 2012, including parking fees. However, the popular Fiesta Edinburg parade is free. Featured receiving a $10,000 sponsorship from the Bert Ogden Auto Group are, seated from left: Robert Lucio with Bert Ogden Edinburg Area GM; Janet Vackar and Robert C. Vackar, owners of Bert Ogden Auto Group; and Edna Peña, Chair of the Board of Directors for the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce. Standing from left are Letty González, president of the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce; Cris Torres, member, Board of Directors, Edinburg Chamber of Commerce; Dalia Arce, member, Fiesta Edinburg Committee; and Marty Martin, Maggie Kent, and Alex Ríos, members, Board of Directors, Edinburg Chamber of Commerce. See story later in this posting.
••••••
Dr. René Gutiérrez, superintendent for the Edinburg school district, on Tuesday, January 24, addressed the Hidalgo County Commissioners Court and secured an interlocal agreement between Hidalgo County Precinct 4, led by Commissioner Joseph Palacios, and the Edinburg school district to provide for the construction of a protective barrier around Carmen Ávila Elementary and Harwell Middle Schools. This action proposes a solution to an issue that was widely publicized late last year in which two middle school students were injured after being hit by stray bullets from a nearby ranch. Through the agreement, Precinct 4 shall donate dirt to help construct protective barriers to surround the school. The school district shall pay the county for materials, equipment and personnal costs for construction of the protective barrier. Gutiérrez hopes the joint program will decrease the possibility of any future occurrences and help to ease some of the concerns for safety and security of students at the schools.
••••••
As a business owner and real estate developer, Jaime A. Rodríguez, 47, has built a deserved reputation over 20 years as a positive force in Edinburg, currently serving as president and CEO of several outstanding firms that provide employment for more than 250 people in Hidalgo County. Those accomplishments in the private sector – plus his willingness to share his time and business expertise on behalf of a much larger constituency – in late November earned him a coveted spot on the five-member governing board of the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation – the jobs-creation arm of the Edinburg City Council. “There are many projects that are coming down the pipeline,” he said. “The citizens of Edinburg are going to be very pleasantly surprised with all the good news coming to our city.” See lead story in this posting.
•••••• (more…)
by Legislative Media | Dec 30, 2011 | Politics
An eight-story, 254,000 square foot new courthouse, featured here in this preliminary draft rendition by ERO Architects of McAllen, could become a major county and city landmark in downtown Edinburg. Prompted by serious overcrowding issues facing the existing Hidalgo County Courthouse, a 30-member advisory committee, appointed several months ago by the Hidalgo County Commissioners Court, has been charged with contributing their vision for an ideal courthouse facility that would encompass the current needs and projected growth anticipated in the next 10 years, as well as take into consideration all fundamental and desired elements of design, structure and function. ERO Architects is preparing a comprehensive review and analysis of what to do with the existing, almost 60-year-old Hidalgo County Courthouse, which would remain in use. The Hidalgo County Courthouse Master Plan Committee is scheduled to hold its next public meeting on Wednesday, January 18, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the International Trade and Technology Building at the University of Texas-Pan American. The work of the committee, including historical background, general project documents, and photographs, is available free and online to the public by logging on at: https://sites.google.com/site/hcchmasterplan/
••••••
Rep. Sergio Muñoz, Jr., D-Mission, featured front row, fourth from right, on Wednesday, December 21, was joined by area elected leaders and other constituents from his House District 36 for the official grand opening of his legislative district office, located at 121 E. Tom Landry in Mission. The ribbon-cutting ceremony doubled as an open house for the office, which has been open to the public since mid-January 2011. Among the dignitaries joining Muñoz were, to his right: Mission Mayor Norberto Salinas; and to his left: Mission Mayor Pro Tem Leo Olivarez, Sr.; Mission Councilman Rubén Plata; and Mission Councilwoman Norie González Garza. Muñoz believes the next legislative session, which begins in January 2013, should have a balanced approach to tackle key issues related to jobs, education and health care, and work together to provide a better future for communities and families. More information on Muñoz is available on his legislative website: http://www.house.state.tx.us/members/member-page/?district=36
••••••
South Texas College has partnered with two Mid-Valley manufacturing companies to provide job training using a $234,629 Skills Development Fund Grant from the Texas Workforce Commission. The business partners include Rio Grande Container Inc. and Wood Crafters Home Products, L.L.C. “This is a great day for Weslaco and STC. The college is committed to creating jobs, economic development, and one of the strategic directions of the college is to serve as the catalyst for regional economic prosperity and social mobility,” STC President Shirley A. Reed said. “That means bringing jobs to the Mid-Valley and helping you be prepared to take advantage of those jobs so that you can really earn a good living for you and your family. That’s really what South Texas College is all about.” Featured at the check presentation, first row, from left: Rep. Armando “Mando” Martínez, D-Weslaco; Ronald Congleton, TWC Commissioner Representing Labor; Weslaco Mayor Miguel Wise; STC President Shirley A. Reed; and Samuel Lugo, WoodCrafters Executive Vice President of Finance. Back row, from left: Wanda F. Garza, Executive Officer for North American Advanced Manufacturing Research and Education Initiative (NAAMREI); Jesse Villarreal, Member, South Texas College Board of Trustees; Monte Churchill, Campus Coordinator, STC Mid-Valley Campus in Weslaco; Teresa Rodríguez, WoodCrafters Corporate Social Responsibility Manager; and Gary Gurwitz, President, Board of Trustees, South Texas College. See story later in this posting.
••••••
Valley veterans on Thursday, December 22, met in Harlingen with Lawrence A. Biro, Network Director of the Heart of Texas Health Care Network, and Danna Malone, Interim Director of the VA Texas Valley Coastal Bend Health Care System, for updates on federal legislation designed to secure funding for an inpatient VA Hospital for deep South Texas. “Many South Texas veterans were hoping for good news on the Veterans Administration Hospital issue. No luck,” reported Arturo “Treto” Garza, one of the veterans who participated in the gathering. “However, we did get straight talk from Biro.” Biro, as network director of the VA Heart of Texas Health Services, manages the local VA Texas Valley Coastal Bend Health System Services (VATVCBHS). As such, he is overseeing the expansion of the surgical center in Harlingen. Featured, from left: Lawrence A. Biro; Danna Malone; Arturo “Treto” Garza; Joe Ibarra; Pete Prax Garza; and Rubén Cantú. Garza, a columnist for http://www.Rio Grande Guardian.com, offers more details on the December 22 session later in this posting.
••••••
Leti Nava, featured second from left, recently collected a $16,000 check in lieu of a 2011 vehicle as her grand prize during a recent raffle sponsored by the Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. In addition, the Edinburg Children’s Hospital Foundation and the Vannie Cook Cancer center each received a $1,000 donation from proceeds from the local chamber’s Fall Raffle. Profits generated from the event will help with the new Program of Work that the RGVHCC has planned for 2012. More workshops to assist small and women-owned businesses are scheduled as well as health, education and cultural events. Additional information on the RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce may be obtained by calling their office at 956/928-0060 or by visiting their website at http://www.rgvhcc.com. Present for the check presentation are, from left: Ronnie Bernal, RGVHCC Vice Chair of Small Business and Economic Development and chairman of the Fall Raffle; Leti Nava, Fall Raffle grand prize winner; Ray Cantú, accepting for Vannie Cook Cancer Center; Cynthia M. Sakulenzki, president and chief executive officer, RGVHCC; and Iván Quiñonez, accepting for Edinburg Children’s Hospital Foundation.
••••••
Regal Beloit Corporation (Regal Beloit) of McAllen recently received the Employer Award of Excellence for the Texas Workforce Solutions (TWS), Lower Rio area, which includes Hidalgo, Starr, and Willacy counties, during the Texas Workforce Commission’s 15th Annual Texas Workforce Conference. The Employer Award of Excellence honors employers that are actively involved with their local workforce board and have made a positive impact on employers, workers and the community. Regal Beloit is a global manufacturing company with an advanced manufacturing facility that specializes in die casting and metal stamping of rotors and stators for electric motors. Featured, front row, from left: Mike Willis, Executive Director, South Texas Manufacturers Association; Yvonne “Bonnie” González, Chief Executive Officer, TWS; Lupita Almasri, Human Resources Manager, Regal Beloit; Elsa de Alba, Plant Manager, Regal Beloit; and Dalinda Guillen, Chair, Board of Directors, TWS. Back row, from left: Edna Posada, Member Representing the Private Sector, TWS; Noel Benavides; Board Member Representing Adult Basic Education, TWS; Dr. Ida H. Acuña-Garza, Board Member Representing Adult Basic Education, TWS; Aurelio “Keter” Guerra, Board Member Representing Public Assistance, TWS; and Irma Hulen, Board Member Representing the Private Sector, TWS. Texas Workforce Solutions (TWS) comprises the Texas Workforce Commission, a statewide network of 28 Workforce Development Boards for regional planning and service delivery, their contracted service providers and community partners, and the Texas Workforce Commission unemployment benefits tele-centers. This network gives customers local access to workforce solutions and statewide services at numerous TWS offices and six tele-centers. See story later in this posting.
••••••
Some of the latest works of area artist Paul Valadez from his In the Age of Mascots efforts will be on display in Edinburg on Friday, January 13, as part of January’s Jardín del Arte, sponsored by the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation – the jobs creation arm of the Edinburg City Council – and The City of Edinburg’s Cultural Activities Board. Valadez, who is a full-time lecturer in the Art Department at the University of Texas-Pan American, will be joined by Kim Snyder of Keytar Dreamz, plus a dance performance by Dancer’s Creative Motion, an organization at UTPA. The January 13 gathering, which is free and open to the public, will be held from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. in the City Hall Courtyard, 415 W. University. Food and beverages will be sold by participating Edinburg restaurants such as El Jinete, Corina’s Tea Room, La Pesca, and La Cocinita. They will feature tamales and hot chocolate, fajita tacos, shrimp cocktails, and much more. See story later in this posting.
••••••
Douglas A. Matney, group president for South Texas Health System based in Edinburg, has been re-elected to the Texas Hospital Association’?s Board of Trustees, effective Sunday, January 1. This will be his second three-year term. Matney, who has more than three decades of health care experience, has been in his current position since 2007. He previously served as chief executive officer of Del Sol Medical Center in El Paso. In addition to previously serving on the THA Board of Trustees, Matney served on THA?’s Council on Policy Development. A member of the American College of Healthcare Executives, he received the Senior Level Healthcare Executive Regent?s Award in 2004. Matney earned a bachelor?s degree in health systems from the Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta. He also attended the University of Florida in
Gainesville where he earned a master?s degree in health science and a master?s degree in business administration.
••••••
Nelda T. Ramírez, an 11-year-veteran with the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation, on Thursday, December 15, was unanimously selected by the EEDC’s governing board to serve as its Executive Director, which will allow her to continue leading that key entity for the next three years. The EEDC is the jobs-creation arm of the Edinburg City Council. Ramírez is featured here following the EEDC board action with Mayor Richard García (left) and Jaime A. Rodríguez, the newest member of the EEDC Board of Directors. She pledged that her performance would continue at the highest levels. “We will continue the momentum with all the projects we have on the table right now,” Ramírez said. “We are hoping to see a lot more announcements in the next year to come, and a lot of big projects that will not only benefit the city, both economically and strategically, but continue to feature Edinburg on the map.” Her selection was unanimously approved by the EEDC governing board, which in addition to the mayor – who serves as president of the EEDC Board of Directors – and Rodríguez, includes Dr. Glenn Martínez as Vice-President, Fred Palacios as Secretary-Treasurer, and Felipe García, Member.
•••••• (more…)
