by Legislative Media | Jan 16, 2013 | Politics
State Rep. Terry Canales, D-Edinburg, was at Edinburg City Hall on Friday, January 11, for a ceremonial swearing-in as the new state representative for House District 40, which includes most of Edinburg, Elsa, northern Pharr and the University of Texas-Pan American. Other elected officials, family members, and supporters joined Canales for the 11:45 A.M. event, held in the Edinburg City Council chamber, including, from left: Rachel Borchard, his mother; Erica Canales, his wife; and Hidalgo County District Court Judge Ricardo Rodríguez, who administered the oath of office. Mayor Richard García, Mayor Pro Tem Agustín “Gus” García, Councilmember J.R. Betancourt, Precinct 4 Hidalgo County Commissioner Joseph Palacios, Rep. Bobby Guerra, D-Sharyland, and Hidalgo County District Clerk Laura Hinojosa were among the elected leaders who participated in the event.
••••••
Sen. Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa, D-McAllen, featured left, Sen. Eddie Lucio, Jr., D-Brownsville, center, and Rep. Sergio Muñoz, Jr., D-Mission, will be working together with other Valley legislators to try to secure state funding for a full-fledge Veterans Administration Hospital for the Rio Grande Valley. In 2011, Valley lawmakers introduced legislation to allow the governor to use money from the cash-rich Texas Enterprise Fund to help make a Valley VA Hospital a reality. “We need to run with it again, push it through the legislative process, and try to get more of our colleagues to recognize the need, not only for our region, but for veterans in general in providing medical services to them,” said Muñoz. He agreed with the strategy by Rep. Armando “Mando” Martinez, D-Weslaco, to have the identical bill to be filed in the Senate soon after the House bill is introduced, rather than wait until the House of Representatives takes action on the issue, which occurred in 2011. “We can move it through both chambers, hopefully earlier on, and start garnishing support from the Senate and the House, and try to make use of the legislative resources and press coverage of this vital issue to promote its need,” Muñoz explained. See story later in this posting.
••••••
Speaker of the U.S. House John Boehner, featured left, on Thursday, January 3, administered the oath of office to U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar, D-Laredo/McAllen, during a ceremony in Washington, D.C. Cuellar, who is beginning his fifth two-year term in Congress, is the only Texan who is serving on the House Appropriations Committee. See story later in this posting.
••••••
The Hidalgo County District Clerk Office, led by Hidalgo County District Clerk Laura Hinojosa, on Wednesday, December 26, presented a check in the amount of $3,250 to the Boys & Girls Club of McAllen as part of their Blues for Bucks Workplace Fundraising Campaign to benefit local charitable organizations. The Boys & Girls Club of McAllen began in 1966, through efforts led by Othal E. Brand Sr., in a high school gym with a budget of $200 and 400 boys. Today, they are one of, if not the fastest growing clubs in the nation. With five Traditional Sites, five Afterschool Alliance Sites, and six 21st Century Sites and an annual operating budget of $3 million, the Boys & Girls Club of McAllen has grown to meet the needs of more than 10,000 members. Over the past 45 years, the Boys & Girls Club has been there to encourage, support and stimulate thousands of young people whose other choices were the loneliness of an empty house, or the risk associated with unsupervised activity. Find out more about the organization at http://www.bgcmcallen.org/who/us.aspx/ Featured, from left: María Elva Garza; Annelle Sánchez; District Clerk Laura Hinojosa; Irineo Razo; Zayra Narváez; Armando Cantú; Normalynda Zepeda; Krystal Rodríguez; Alessandra Galván; María Barrera; Aída Villarreal; and Jassia De La Paz.
••••••
Want to enjoy an evening of fun while marketing your company? Sign up for the RGV Hispanic Chambers “Corporate Super Bowl” to be held on Wednesday, January 30, at the Flamingo Bowl in McAllen. The $250 entry fee is for a five-member team and includes the use of a bowling ball, shoes, coupons for food, pitcher of beer, soft drinks, and team t-shirt with the company name on it and a team photo. Only 40 teams will be accepted. Team trophies will be awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place. Individual trophies will also be awarded to the female and male top bowler. Teams will bowl two games with the top six teams going on the finals. The “Corporate Super Bowl” is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. To sign up or for more information on the Super Bowl call the RGVHCC office at 928-0060. Featured making final arrangements are, first row, from left: Nick Boland and Paulina Rodríguez. Featured, back row, from left: Cynthia M. Sakulenzki, Ronnie Díaz, Ronnie Bernal and Rick Cavazos.
••••••
Sen. Judith Zaffirini, D-Laredo, featured second row, center, and Sen. Eddie Lucio, Jr., D-Brownsville, featured behind Zaffirini, joined other senators on Tuesday, January 8, in taking their oaths of office in the chamber of the Senate at the State Capitol. Zaffirini and Sen. Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa, D-McAllen (not pictured), are encouraging their constituents to communicate with them during the five-month regular session, which ends on May 31. See stories by Zaffirini and Hinojosa later in this posting.
••••••
Edinburg’s city, county and state leaders are reporting positive trends in the local retail economies, with the latest data from the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts showing Edinburg posted an almost 12 percent improvement in its retail economy in November 2012 as compared with November 2011. Featured, from left: Rep. Bobby Guerra, D-Sharyland; Mayor Pro Tem Agustín “Gus” García; Mayor Richard García; Rep. Terry Canales, D-Edinburg; Councilmember J.R. Betancourt; Precinct 4 Hidalgo County Commissioner Joseph Palacios; and Hidalgo County District Court Judge Ricardo Rodríguez, shown here on Friday, January 11, following the swearing-in of Canales, the new state representative for House District 40, which includes Edinburg, Elsa, northern Pharr, and the University of Texas Pan American. See story later in this posting.
••••••
With the Texas Legislature having returned to work on Tuesday, January 8, for its five-month regular session, Rep. Sergio Muñoz, Jr. is encouraging South Texas political and economic development leaders to help influence passage of major new laws and policies designed to improve the manufacturing industry in the Valley and statewide. One of the key issues that has been brought to light is that manufacturing positions are available, but prospective employees do not have the education, training and skills needed for many of those high-tech jobs. “Many businesses do not have the ability to provide comprehensive retraining for applicants who excelled in their former professions, but who lost their jobs to a changing economy, and now must learn entirely new skills for the excellent jobs that are now available,” said Muñoz. “Our committee looked at how state government, community colleges and technical institutions, and the private sector can work better together to reshape the tremendous talent we have into a new workforce for the 21st century.” See story later in this posting.
••••••
Rep. Terry Canales, D-Edinburg, is the third member of his South Texas family to serve in the Texas House of Representatives. His father and sister have also been state representatives from north of Hidalgo County. Featured here, following the Edinburg lawmaker’s first day at the Capitol on Tuesday, January 8, are, from left: G.G. Betancourt, daughter of Edinburg City Councilmember J.R. Betancourt and Renée Rodríguez Betancourt; the Canales family, including daughter Juliana; wife Erica, who is from Edinburg; son Terry Andres; Rep. Terry Canales, D-Edinburg; his father, former Rep. Terry Canales; and Rep. Canales’ sister, former Rep. Gabriela Canales; on Tuesday, January 8, at his desk in the chamber of the Texas House of Representatives.
••••••
(more…)
by Legislative Media | Nov 15, 2012 | Politics
Sen. Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa, D-McAllen, on Tuesday, November 6, celebrated with his supporters and local news media reporters outside his law office in McAllen following his victory over Rep. Raul Torres, R-Corpus Christi. Hinojosa earned more than 60 percent of the vote for the right to serve as the District 20 state senator. District 20 includes a large portion of Hidalgo County, Nueces County, Jim Wells County, and Brooks County. "I would like to thank the voters for returning me to the Texas Senate to continue defending District 20’s fast-growing and distinct slice of Texas," Hinojosa following his victory. "I also want to thank my supporters, volunteers and campaign staff for their very hard work on the ground this election season."
••••••
Mayor Richard García, Rep.-elect Terry Canales, D-Edinburg, and Paul Rappaport of First Hartford Realty, who is the General Manager for The Shoppes at Rio Grande Valley in Edinburg, on Friday, October 19, were joined by other area business and community leaders for a ribbon cutting ceremony marking the positive economic impact of the 440,000 square-foot retail shopping complex, which is scheduled to expand to more than 1.1 million square-feet in the coming few years. Since it first opened for business in the fall of 2008, The Shoppes at Rio Grande Valley, located at Trenton Road and U.S. Expressway/Business 281, has generated $4.6 million in local sales taxes and employs more than 220 full-time professionals, according to the mayor. Featured, from left: Martín Rivas, Membership Director, Edinburg Chamber of Commerce; Elizabeth Rocha, General Manager, Melrose Family Fashions; Letty Reyes, Project Manager, Edinburg Economic Development Corporation; Ramiro Garza, Edinburg City Manager; Rep.-Elect Terry Canales, D-Edinburg; Mayor Richard García, president, Edinburg Economic Development Corporation Board of Directors; Paul Rappaport of First Hartford Realty, General Manager, The Shoppes at Rio Grande Valley; Chris Fuentes, General Manager, JC Penney; Agustín Lozano, Public Relations, Bert Ogden Motors; Letty González, President, Edinburg Chamber of Commerce; Marty Martin, Rio Valley Realty; Melissa Rodríguez, Austin Personnel Services; and Johnny Rodríguez, Austin Personnel Services.
••••••
Robert R. Vela High School was formally dedicated on Saturday, October 13, during a grand opening ceremony that brought together hundreds of guests from throughout the Valley. There were local, state, and national dignitaries, former students, and people from all walks of life whose lives were touched by Vela. Vela was a teacher who firmly believed that academics and athletics worked hand-in-hand to mold well-rounded student-athletes into productive citizens in our community. Vela was one of South Texas’ greatest football coaches. He lived his life helping students see the potential of greatness within them. Robert R. Vela High School is home of the SaberCats. Featured, from left: His widow, Dominga Vela; Sen. Eddie Lucio, Jr., D-Brownsville; Rep.-elect Terry Canales, D-Edinburg; Eva Torres, Principal of Vela High School; and Dr. René Gutiérrez, Superintendent of the Edinburg School District.
••••••
South Texas College Dual Enrollment Medical Science Academy was one of only three programs that were honored on Thursday, October 4 with the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board’s Star Award at the 2012 THECB Leadership Conference in Austin. "The Coordinating Board’s recognition of South Texas College’s exemplary Dual Enrollment Academy for Medical Sciences as a Star Award winner is long overdue," said STC President Shirley A. Reed. "The program has a sterling track record of success and helping hundreds of young people get a jump start on pursuing a professional degree in medical sciences by earning an associate degree from STC, tuition free." Featured, from left: Nick González, STC High School Programs and Services Liaison; Ali Esmaeili, STC Dean of Bachelor Programs and University Relations; Lupe Chávez, STC High School Programs Director; Raymund Paredes, Commissioner of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board; Mark Murray, President of STC Faculty Senate; and Juan E. Mejía, STC Vice President for Academic Affairs. See story later in this posting.
••••••
Silver Ribbon Community Partners, First Choice Power and the Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce are asking the community to "Share the Warmth" with the elderly and disabled this winter season. Silver Ribbon is a non-profit United Way Agency that assists the elderly 65+ and the disabled 18+ who have been referred to them by Adult Protective Services due to abuse, neglect or exploitation. Many of these elderly clients fall into the "low-to moderate income" bracket and may receive $10,000 a year or less from Social Security. Every year the county of Hidalgo receives over 2,500 calls of physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, neglect, self-neglect, or exploitation of the elderly and disabled. Area residents can help the less fortunate by donating new or gently used blankets, warm stretch gloves, non-skid socks, or winter caps and scarf’s that will be distributed to the elderly or disabled of Hidalgo County who meet the income criteria. Monetary donations will also be accepted. Please make checks out to Silver Ribbon Community Partners. Residents also may drop off donations now until December 17 at Silver Ribbon Community Partners located at 1919 Austin Avenue in McAllen, at First Choice Power located at 2423 E. Expressway 83, Suite 400, in Mission, or at the Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce located at 3313 N. McColl in McAllen, Please call Rose Ramírez, Program Director with Silver Ribbon at 956/664-4892 for more information and remember your donation is tax deductible. Featured, from left: Cynthia Sakulenzki, RGVHCC Pres/CEO; Rose Ramírez, Program Director Silver Ribbon Community Partners, and Moníca Rodríguez, Area Manager for First Choice Power.
••••••
First National Bank on Friday, November 9, announced that Saúl Ortega, its Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, has been named the honoree for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV 6th Annual "Steak" in Your Community Event. Ortega and the 2013 Youth of the Year will be celebrated on Saturday, January 12, 2013, at the Legacy Center@Boys & Girls Clubs, 702 Cullen Street (Rogers & Expway 281). Ortega has been with First National Bank for 25 years, formerly as Accounting Officer, Controller, and Chief Financial Officer. He assumed the role of Chairman and CEO in late 2011. Ortega’s focus is on strong, conservative lending practices and maintaining FNB’s long history of the best customer service in banking. Featured, first row, from left: Amaya Hernández; Tomás Espinoza; Brianna Espinoza; Mallory Espinoza; Adam López; Abel López; and Alex Castillo. Back row: Saúl Ortega and Sabrina Walker-Hernández, Chief Professional Officer, Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV. See story later in this posting.
••••••
A scholarship for South Texas students at The University of Texas at Austin has been named for Senator Judith Zaffirini, D-Laredo, the Texas Exes announced on Tuesday, October 30. The Senator Judith Zaffirini Scholarship will be presented annually by the Texas Exes to deserving students from South Texas who need assistance paying for college. The scholarship was endowed by the senator’s son, Carlos Zaffirini Jr., an attorney and businessman. Because of his contribution, the Texas Exes will create a permanent endowment that can fund scholarships for years to come. Featured, from left: Carlos Zaffirini Jr.; Leslie Cedar, Texas Exes Executive Director; Bill Powers, UT President; and Dr. Francisco Cigarroa, UT System Chancellor. Not shown: John Beckworth, Texas Exes President. See story later in this posting.
••••••
León and Velma Sue De León, owners of Memorial Funeral Home in Edinburg, among other area businesses, on Saturday, November 3, were recognized as 2012 Man and Woman of the Year by the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce. The honor was bestowed during the Annual Chamber Installation Banquet, held at the ECHO Hotel and Conference Center in Edinburg. The Man and Woman of the Year selection was based on a community-driven committee process that selected a man and woman that exceeds in professional and civic commitment and avid volunteerism within the community of Edinburg. Featurd, from left: son Jason De León; León and Velma Sue De León; and son Jacob De León. See story later in this posting.
••••••
Edinburg Mayor Richard García, featured seated, center, on Saturday, October 13, help lead a delegation of Valley mayors who met at Pepper’s Restaurant in McAllen with San Antonio Mayor Julián Castro to begin building an alliance with San Antonio on legislative issues of mutual concern to that city and the Rio Grande Valley. They addressed shared challenges and strategies needed to develop a partnership between the two regions of South Texas in advance of the upcoming regular session of the Texas Legislature, which begins in January. Featured, front row, from left, are: Rio Grande City Mayor Rubén Villarreal; Granjeño Mayor Yvette Cabrera; Mayor Castro’s twin brother, Rep. Joaquin Castro, D-San Antonio; Edinburg Mayor Richard H. García; San Antonio Mayor Julián Castro; San Juan Mayor San Juanita Sánchez; and Laguna Vista Mayor Susie Houston. Standing, from left: Gilbert Hinojosa, Texas Democratic Party Chair; Rio Hondo Mayor Alonzo Garza; La Feria Mayor Steve Brewer; Port Isabel Mayor Joe E. Vega; Alamo Mayor Diana Martínez; Alamo Commissioner María del Pilar Garza; Mercedes Mayor Henry Hinojosa; McAllen Mayor Richard Cortéz; and Harlingen Mayor Chris Boswell.
••••••
On November 28, 2011, Miriam Martínez of Edinburg, who only the year before had become a naturalized U.S. citizen, gave back to her beloved America with her remarkable first entry into U.S. democracy, which ended for her on Tuesday, November 6, as the Republican nominee for State Representative, House District 41. In her almost year-long campaign, she has endured, as so aptly put in Shakespeare’s Hamlet, "the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune" – dealing with political attacks on her honorable reputation, plus all the complications and problems that life throws at her. Yet, Martínez has never wavered in her bold vision, integrity, and willingness to "speak truth to power" – the highest standards of U.S. democracy – in order to drive her message that anyone can run for high office in America, not just the privileged few.
"The promise of America and Texas is that if you are willing to sacrifice and work hard, pray for guidance, work with people, listen to the wisdom of others, and do what is right and just, you can accomplish just about anything," she said. "My campaign is symbolic of the humble beginnings, titanic struggles, and valiant victories of all South Texans." See lead story 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 | 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 | Sep 1, 2011 | Politics
The University of Texas System Board of Regents on Thursday, August 25, gave final approval for the construction of a $42.6 million, 1,000-seat performance arts center at the UT-Pan American – a highly-anticipated decision that has been long in coming. But it comes just in time for the Edinburg City Council’s and Edinburg Economic Development Corporation’s planned and dramatic transformation of the community’s vital downtown and university corridors, says Mayor Richard García. “This is excellent timing because in a few months, we will be soliciting public bids from qualified firms for our planned make-over of West McIntyre Street into a beautiful, pedestrian-friendly, environmentally-enhanced corridor that will help existing businesses and attract new shops and venues to serve thousands of residents and visitors who will come to our downtown and university” said the mayor. Sen. Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa, D-McAllen, a principal legislative architect in helping secure state funding for the complex, emphasized the positive impact of the approved project. “This facility will attract supporters of the arts, quality performers and outside visitors. These benefits will also radiate into the community in other ways,” said Hinojosa. “I am confident this will be a top-notch performing arts center that will bolster the local economy by attracting jobs and investment, and enrich the cultural life of the Rio Grande Valley. Investments like these are particularly beneficial because they help boost UT-Pan American’s profile in the region.” See story later in this posting.
••••••
With several members of his immediate family looking on, local healthcare and produce businessman T.C. Betancourt on Monday, August 23, officially announced his candidacy as a Democrat for state representative, House District 41, which includes southwest Edinburg. He noted that Republicans, who control the Texas Legislature, approved state budget cuts and legislative redistricting plans last spring that cost South Texas billions of dollars in critical funding over the next several years. “I intend to work hard to create good-paying jobs, affordable healthcare and offer more people the ability to access the education they want,” Betancourt said. “These are the opportunities and benefits that I have provided our employees and families in Hidalgo County for the past decade. I can be trusted to fight for the people of South Texas.” Featured with him, from left, are his wife, Ana, formerly of Mission, and his parents, Mary and Lupe Betancourt. T.C. and Ana Betancourt have twin sons – Aiden and Tristán, and he has two brothers – Lupe III and Joel – and one sister, Candy Martínez. See story later in this posting.
••••••
The 2011-2012 Edinburg Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors met on Thursday, August 11 at Doctor’s Hospital at Renaissance to review short- and long-term plans to enhance events and programs produced by that organization. Johnny Rodríguez will step down as chairman and welcome Edna Peña on October 15 at the chamber’s Annual Banquet at the Echo Hotel and Conference Center. “I am very excited about our new board of directors. I feel that we have a great group of individuals who are passionate about the chamber and the city of Edinburg,” said Peña. “I look forward to serving as the 2011-2012 chairman and am excited for what is to come.” Featured promoting the announcement of the chamber’s new leadership are, standing from left: Alex Ríos; Johnny Rodríguez; Edna Peña; Marty Baylor; Letty González; Naomi Perales; Jacob De León; and Marty Martin Seated, from left: Elva Jackson Garza; Maggie Kent; and Dina Araguz. Not pictured are Lucy Canales; Gus Casas; Marissa Castañeda; City Councilmember Elías Longoria, Jr.; Robert Lucio; Robert McGurk; Edinburg Municipal Court Judge Toribio “Terry” Palacios; and Cris Torres. More information on the local chamber is available by calling 956/383-4974 or logging on to http://www.Edinburg.com
••••••
The Women’s Business Center honored Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa with the “Community Advocacy Award” on Friday, August 26, at the 2nd Annual Women’s Business Summit held at Texas State Technical College in Harlingen. Hinojosa was honored for being an outstanding community leader and for his dedication to improving the lives of women. “My hat goes off to women, because I know that women work much harder than men do,” Hinojosa said. María “Charo” Mann, executive director of the WBC, said “Sen. Hinojosa has been an outstanding supporter of woman issues here in the Rio Grande Valley and fought the good fight during this past legislative session. We are very honored to have such a leader among us.” The Women’s Business Summit was a day-long event providing useful information to business professionals, entrepreneurs, and aspiring business owners. The event’s theme was “Creating Strategies for Today’s Successful Woman” and topics such as Access to Capital, Marketing, Productivity and Leadership motivated attendees. For more information about the Women’s Business Center, visit http://www.wbc-rgv.org. Featured, from left: Sylvia Zamponi, Lower Rio Grande Valley SBA district director; Catalina Madrigal-Rupert, TXU Energy community relations manager; Sen. Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa, D-McAllen; María “Charo” Mann, Women’s Business Center executive director; and Alma Ortega-Johnson, Wells Fargo Upper Valley president.
••••••
All aboard! Get on track with the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce Depot Restoration committee and efforts to preserve the historic train depot, located at 602 W. University Drive. The Hobo Hap’nin Reunion will bring to life one of the most successful events and fundraisers that brought the community together for one common purpose. The event is scheduled for Saturday, September 17, starting at 6:30 p.m. filled with live entertainment, live and blackboard auctions and a scrumptious dinner. Featured promoting ticket sales to the Hobo Hap’nin Reunion are members of the 2011-2012 Depot Restoration Committee. From left are: Letty González; Elva Jackson Garza; Flo Prater; Maggie Kent; Marty Martin; Edna Peña; and Vivian Martin.
••••••
The Texas Association of Mexican American Chambers of Commerce (TAMACC) held their annual convention in Irving August 25 through August 27. The Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, headquartered in McAllen, was honored as the Medium Chamber of the Year. In addition, Pepe Cabeza de Vaca, publisher of Socialife magazine, was honored as the Business Man of the Year. The awards were given out at the annual Chairman’s Gala on August 26. The RGV Hispanic Chamber was recognized for their work on issues that impact small business, education, legislative affairs, women, and health. It was noted that the RGVHCC had also extended their services to the entire Rio Grande Valley. This makes the 10th award in the past 12 years from the Texas State Chamber that the RGVHCC has received. “We are extremely proud to be able to represent the Rio Grande Valley. Due to the economic hardships, it has been hard at times to put forth our program of work, but our dedication to our membership is what has kept us going,” said Cynthia M. Sakulenzki, president and CEO of the RGV Hispanic Chamber. Cabeza de Vaca, who also is a member of the RGVHCC, was publicly recognized for successfully guiding his publishing interests, which now are circulated in Starr County as well as Hidalgo County, plus he has added health and kids social magazines. “We are extremely proud that a member of our chamber would be honored with such an honor,” Sakulenzki emphasized.
••••••
Rep. Aaron Peña, R-Edinburg, and Rep. Verónica Gonzáles, D-McAllen, whose legislative districts include Edinburg, are noting the economic influence of the performance arts complex, whose auditorium is featured in this rendition, and other upcoming academic and physical improvements to the largest state university south of San Antonio. “The completion of the fine arts center and the other major investments by the UT System are going to have a deep and lasting impact in our community,” said Peña. “Young people interested in pursuing careers in medicine, science, technology and the arts will have some wonderful tools at their disposal.” Peña was the coauthor of House Bill 153, supported by the Valley state legislative delegation, that included hte funding for the facility. “Good things come to those who wait,” Gonzáles said. “It took a while for monies we secured years ago to fund this project to become a reality, but it will definitely be worth the wait. UTPA is one of the finest educational institutions in this state and it deserves a top-of-the-line Fine Arts Center. The benefits it will bring not only to students, but to all our community will be endless.” See lead story later in this posting.
••••••
(more…)
