by Legislative Media | Apr 14, 2013 | Politics
A powerful congressional delegation visiting Edinburg – and led by Congressman Rubén Hinojosa, D-Mercedes – on Wednesday, March 27, learned from Mayor Richard H. García that the people of Edinburg and the Rio Grande Valley are standing on the precipice of greatness. “Edinburg has helped lead the charge for this merger (of the University of Texas-Pan American and UT-Brownsville) that will also bring us a UT medical school,” García told the gathering of political heavyweights at a welcome reception held at the Edinburg Conference Center at Renaissance. “This will single-handily reshape the face of the entire Valley – educationally, medically, economically.” From left, front row: Congressman Juan Vargas (CA); Alonzo Cantú, president, Cantú Construction, and founder of Doctors Hospital at Renaissance; Mayor Richard H. García; Congressman Rubén Hinojosa, D-Mercedes; Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson, D-Dallas; and Congressman Tony Cárdenas (CA). Back row, from left: Edinburg City Manager Ramiro Garza, Jr.; Edinburg Councilmember Elías Longoria, Jr.; Congressman Pete Gallego, D-Alpine; Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, D-Houston; and Congressman Filemón Vela, D-Brownsville. See lead story in this posting.
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Mayor Julián Castro of San Antonio, featured center, on Saturday, March 23, was the keynote speaker for the South Texas Mayors’ Stakeholder Summit hosted by Mayor Richard H. García and the New Leaders Texas Foundation at the Edinburg Conference Center at Renaissance. Castro, 38, is the youngest mayor of the top 50 largest American cities. He focused on the emerging statewide importance of the Rio Grande Valley, offering as proof the upcoming creation a major new university system, complete with a University of Texas System medical school, approved recently by the Texas Legislature. “I don’t believe that it is a coincidence that you are getting a medical school now. I believe there are many folks in Austin who see the future, who understand the power, both economically and electorally, of this community, who understand that if they don’t act now, then you are going to act for them later,” Castro said. “They understand that Texas is going in a new direction, one that includes everyone.” Featured, from left: Congressman Filemón Vela, D-Brownsville; Mayor Richard H. García of Edinburg; Congressman Rubén Hinojosa, D-Mercedes; Mayor Julián Castro of San Antonio; Mayor Raúl G. Salinas of Laredo; Mayor Chris Boswell of Harlingen; and Rep. Terry Canales, D-Edinburg.
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Texas legislative Republican leaders are pushing for new laws aimed at improving government transparency and empowering taxpayers to make informed decisions about taxes and public debt. Senate Bill 14 and House Bill 14, authored by Sen. Tommy Williams, R-The Woodlands, and Rep. Jim Pitts, R-Waxahachie, focus primarily on government transparency, and would provide taxpayers with vital information about government spending and debt. Senate Bill 13 and House Bill 13, authored by Sen. Robert Duncan, R-Lubbock, and Rep. William A. “Bill” Callegari, R-Houston, focus primarily on public pensions, would require increased reporting for all public pension systems, and calls for essential actuarial information to be posted online so it is readily available and easy for taxpayers to find. Featured, from left during a February 7 press conference in Austin announcing the legislation, are: Rep. William A. “Bill” Callegari, R-Houston; Sen. Tommy Williams, R-The Woodlands; Rep. Jim Pitts, R-Waxahachie; Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts Susan Combs; and Lt. Governor David Dewhurst. See story later in this posting.
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A Senate committee on Wednesday, April 10, unanimously approved legislation by Sen. Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa, D-McAllen, featured center, that will promote stronger incentives for job creation in Texas. The Senate Committee on Economic Development approved Senate Bill 1084 by Hinojosa, which relates to one of the most important job-creation tools available in state government: the Texas Enterprise Zone Program. “This legislation is about creating opportunity for Texans in economically-blighted communities through the creation of new jobs and new investment,” said Hinojosa. “The state of Texas leads the nation in job creation and consistently has a lower unemployment rate than national average. This bill will induce growth and economic development, making sure these distressed communities move forward with the state and are part of Texas’ flourishing economy.” Featured with Hinojosa addressing reporters on the Senate floor is Rep. Terry Canales, D-Edinburg. See story on Hinojosa’s SB 1084 later in this posting.
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Blood pressure, blood glucose and A1C screenings are just three of the medical tests that will be conducted during the South Texas Senior Summit on Thursday, May 2, at the Pharr Events Center, located by U.S. Highway 281. The Senior Summit, organized by the Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, is a project spearheaded by Congressman Rubén Hinojosa, D-Mercedes, and Congressman Henry Cuellar, D-Laredo/McAllen. The City of Pharr is co-sponsoring the event this year. Registration begins at 8 a.m., with screenings starting at 9 a.m. Other free screenings available will be for feet, vision, vein, dental, Alzheimer, and bone density. Other services will be discussed, such as Food Bank, Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, Elderly Abuse, etc. In addition, attendees will be able to dance to a popular musical group during the event, have lunch, and listen to what Hinojosa and Cuellar have to say about Medicaid and Medicare. Vendors who wish to secure a booth, or residents who wish to register, may obtain more information by contacting the Hispanic RGV Chamber at 928-0060. Featured discussing plans for the free blood pressure, glucose and A1C screenings are, from left: Cynthia M. Sakulenzki, President/CEO of the RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and HEB pharmacists David García, Brandi McGee, Mary Briones, Eloy Piña, and René Verduzeo.
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Texas’ education policy would be dramatically improved under House Bill 5, coauthored by Rep. Terry Canales, D-Edinburg (featured right). The education system has drawn statewide concerns for depending too much on high-stakes standardized testing, especially for high school students approaching their graduation. HB 5 was overwhelmingly approved, 145 – 2, by the House of Representatives on Tuesday, March 26. “For too long, teachers in Texas have been forced to use their considerable skills to ‘teach to the test’ – that is, prepare students to pass a growing number of standardized tests, which takes time away from providing our young people with a great classroom experience,” said Canales. “In addition, House Bill 5 would provide flexibility for teachers to help students better develop their talents and pursue their interests, so they can succeed in the workplace or in college immediately after they graduate from high school.” Canales is featured here in Edinburg with Congressman Rubén Hinojosa, D-Mercedes, and Mario Lizcano (center), Director of Corporate Affairs for Doctors Hospital at Renaissance, on Saturday, March 23, during the South Texas Mayors’ Stakeholder Summit. That event, which included several sessions on Friday, March 22, was hosted by Mayor Richard H. García of Edinburg and the New Leaders Texas Foundation at the Edinburg Conference Center at Renaissance. See story later in this posting.
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Edinburg Mayor Richard H. García was among local and statewide leaders on Tuesday, March 19, to praise the Texas Legislature, and in particular, the Rio Grande Valley state legislative delegation, for helping bring closer the dream of a University of Texas System medical school for the Rio Grande Valley. “Impressive. Beyond expectations. They did a marvelous and amazing job,” García credited Valley state lawmakers. “We should be proud and be applauding our Valley delegation for coming together, getting it done so quickly, and with so many people on board.” UT System officials predict Gov. Rick Perry will have a bill to sign into law within a few weeks. See story later in this posting.
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San Antonio Mayor Julián Castro, featured left, and Isaac García, a Texas journalist with http://www.YourValleyVoice.com, pose on Saturday, March 23, at the Edinburg Conference Center at Renaissance following Castro’s keynote remarks during the South Texas Mayors’ Stakeholder Summit, hosted by Edinburg Mayor Richard H. García. Among his many achievements, Castro is the first Hispanic ever to deliver a keynote address at a Democratic National Convention. He addressed a prime-time national audience during the 2012 political party convention in Charlotte, North Carolina. Isaac García, whose print journalism experiences include work with the Valley Morning Star, the Edinburg Review, and the Valley Town Crier, is a trailblazer in his own right. He now produces video news reports that accompany his print work on http://www.YourValleyVoice.com, as that digital publication continues to increase its statewide, national and worldwide reach through the Internet. Castro and Isaac García represent the new generation of leaders in politics and the news media, respectively. Isaac García’s interview with Castro is available at http://www.yourvalleyvoice.com/youtube_0034b468-965c-11e2-9383-0019bb2963f4.html
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The future of the United States is in its children, and education is a must in order to succeed. Thus, the Rio Grande Valley Aggie Moms Club is hosting a Gig ‘Em Scholarship Golf Tournament on Saturday, April 27, at the Meadow Creek Golf Course in Mission to help raise money for students who wish to attend a Texas A&M campus. Breakfast and lunch will be provided to all golfers, and Hole-in-One prizes will be awarded at four of the Par 3s, along with door prizes at the awards ceremony. For Aggie non-golfers, the Aggie Moms Club is encouraging them to be a Hole Sponsor for $100, which will feature the sponsor’s name and year of graduation posted on the course during the tournament. Team sponsorships also are available for $500, which entitles team sponsors to have their names listed on the Tournament Banner. The Hole-in-One vehicle sponsors are Frank Smith Toyota, Bert Ogden Cadillac, Spikes Ford and Bert Ogden BMW. “We truly appreciate their support of our scholarship tournament,” said Cynthia M. Sakulenzki, Tournament Chairwoman. “We honestly feel that their presence will create an additional interest to participate in the tournament. WHOOP!” For more information on available sponsorships or to register, call 451-5255 or go to http://www.rgvaggiemoms.com. Featured, from left: Toyota Tundra from Frank Smith Toyota; Angie Stephens and Cynthia M. Sakulenzki, RGV Aggie Moms Club; Bert Ogden Cadillac, Janet and Bob Vackar (Texas A&M graduate); Loly Aguirre, Spikes Ford; and Leo Luna, Bert Ogden BMW.
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Dr. René Gutiérrez, Superintendent of the Edinburg Consolidated Independent School District, says legislation authored by Rep. Sergio Muñoz, Jr., D-Mission, will help prevent future misfortunes such as the one in December 2011, when rifle shots from a nearby rural property struck down two Harwell Middle School students, seriously injuring both. A House of Representatives committee has approved legislation that would allow school districts, in cooperation with local and state governments, to post signs along state or federal highways alerting Texans that a school is next to land that is used for hunting or target practice. That signage, along with the addition of an education component for hunters that spells out their personal responsibility, dangers, and legal consequences of firing bullets across the property line of a school, are key components of a bill by Muñoz. That measure, House Bill 801, was unanimously approved on Thursday, April 4, by the House Committee on Homeland Security and Public Safety with the recommendation that it be passed by the full House of Representatives. Gutiérrez said the legislation “is proof that South Texans were going to respond immediately and effectively to this adversity, where the lives of two innocent, courageous students and their families were forever changed, and an entire community was traumatized.” According to the bill analysis of HB 801, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department estimated that 550 schools are located in rural areas where hunting near schools would be possible and require signage, Muñoz said. See story later in this posting.
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Sen. Eddie Lucio, Jr., D-Brownsville, had one of his bills, which would require all political candidates in Texas to take and pass drug screening and testing, considered on Monday, April 15, by the Senate Committee on State Affairs. Senate Bill 612, which would disqualify any candidate who refuses to be tested for using illegal substances, comes after Lucio late last fall voluntarily submitted to, and passed, a drug screening test to serve as a role model for Texas politicians. “Senate Bill 612 requires any individual who files to run for any elected state (office) to submit to drug screening and testing. The results must be posted by the Texas Ethics Commission (TEC) 45 days prior to a primary election or 45 days before the general election if there is not a primary election for the office sought by the candidate,” Lucio said in his statement of intent. “TEC can post the results only after the candidate agrees to release the results. The secretary of state will create rules and/or forms needed to waive any privacy issues dealing with medical records. The cost of the drug screening and testing will be paid for by the filing individual.” See story later in this posting.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.”
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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).
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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.
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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.
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by Legislative Media | Sep 1, 2011 | Politics
The University of Texas System Board of Regents on Thursday, August 25, gave final approval for the construction of a $42.6 million, 1,000-seat performance arts center at the UT-Pan American – a highly-anticipated decision that has been long in coming. But it comes just in time for the Edinburg City Council’s and Edinburg Economic Development Corporation’s planned and dramatic transformation of the community’s vital downtown and university corridors, says Mayor Richard García. “This is excellent timing because in a few months, we will be soliciting public bids from qualified firms for our planned make-over of West McIntyre Street into a beautiful, pedestrian-friendly, environmentally-enhanced corridor that will help existing businesses and attract new shops and venues to serve thousands of residents and visitors who will come to our downtown and university” said the mayor. Sen. Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa, D-McAllen, a principal legislative architect in helping secure state funding for the complex, emphasized the positive impact of the approved project. “This facility will attract supporters of the arts, quality performers and outside visitors. These benefits will also radiate into the community in other ways,” said Hinojosa. “I am confident this will be a top-notch performing arts center that will bolster the local economy by attracting jobs and investment, and enrich the cultural life of the Rio Grande Valley. Investments like these are particularly beneficial because they help boost UT-Pan American’s profile in the region.” See story later in this posting.
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With several members of his immediate family looking on, local healthcare and produce businessman T.C. Betancourt on Monday, August 23, officially announced his candidacy as a Democrat for state representative, House District 41, which includes southwest Edinburg. He noted that Republicans, who control the Texas Legislature, approved state budget cuts and legislative redistricting plans last spring that cost South Texas billions of dollars in critical funding over the next several years. “I intend to work hard to create good-paying jobs, affordable healthcare and offer more people the ability to access the education they want,” Betancourt said. “These are the opportunities and benefits that I have provided our employees and families in Hidalgo County for the past decade. I can be trusted to fight for the people of South Texas.” Featured with him, from left, are his wife, Ana, formerly of Mission, and his parents, Mary and Lupe Betancourt. T.C. and Ana Betancourt have twin sons – Aiden and Tristán, and he has two brothers – Lupe III and Joel – and one sister, Candy Martínez. See story later in this posting.
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The 2011-2012 Edinburg Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors met on Thursday, August 11 at Doctor’s Hospital at Renaissance to review short- and long-term plans to enhance events and programs produced by that organization. Johnny Rodríguez will step down as chairman and welcome Edna Peña on October 15 at the chamber’s Annual Banquet at the Echo Hotel and Conference Center. “I am very excited about our new board of directors. I feel that we have a great group of individuals who are passionate about the chamber and the city of Edinburg,” said Peña. “I look forward to serving as the 2011-2012 chairman and am excited for what is to come.” Featured promoting the announcement of the chamber’s new leadership are, standing from left: Alex Ríos; Johnny Rodríguez; Edna Peña; Marty Baylor; Letty González; Naomi Perales; Jacob De León; and Marty Martin Seated, from left: Elva Jackson Garza; Maggie Kent; and Dina Araguz. Not pictured are Lucy Canales; Gus Casas; Marissa Castañeda; City Councilmember Elías Longoria, Jr.; Robert Lucio; Robert McGurk; Edinburg Municipal Court Judge Toribio “Terry” Palacios; and Cris Torres. More information on the local chamber is available by calling 956/383-4974 or logging on to http://www.Edinburg.com
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The Women’s Business Center honored Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa with the “Community Advocacy Award” on Friday, August 26, at the 2nd Annual Women’s Business Summit held at Texas State Technical College in Harlingen. Hinojosa was honored for being an outstanding community leader and for his dedication to improving the lives of women. “My hat goes off to women, because I know that women work much harder than men do,” Hinojosa said. María “Charo” Mann, executive director of the WBC, said “Sen. Hinojosa has been an outstanding supporter of woman issues here in the Rio Grande Valley and fought the good fight during this past legislative session. We are very honored to have such a leader among us.” The Women’s Business Summit was a day-long event providing useful information to business professionals, entrepreneurs, and aspiring business owners. The event’s theme was “Creating Strategies for Today’s Successful Woman” and topics such as Access to Capital, Marketing, Productivity and Leadership motivated attendees. For more information about the Women’s Business Center, visit http://www.wbc-rgv.org. Featured, from left: Sylvia Zamponi, Lower Rio Grande Valley SBA district director; Catalina Madrigal-Rupert, TXU Energy community relations manager; Sen. Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa, D-McAllen; María “Charo” Mann, Women’s Business Center executive director; and Alma Ortega-Johnson, Wells Fargo Upper Valley president.
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All aboard! Get on track with the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce Depot Restoration committee and efforts to preserve the historic train depot, located at 602 W. University Drive. The Hobo Hap’nin Reunion will bring to life one of the most successful events and fundraisers that brought the community together for one common purpose. The event is scheduled for Saturday, September 17, starting at 6:30 p.m. filled with live entertainment, live and blackboard auctions and a scrumptious dinner. Featured promoting ticket sales to the Hobo Hap’nin Reunion are members of the 2011-2012 Depot Restoration Committee. From left are: Letty González; Elva Jackson Garza; Flo Prater; Maggie Kent; Marty Martin; Edna Peña; and Vivian Martin.
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The Texas Association of Mexican American Chambers of Commerce (TAMACC) held their annual convention in Irving August 25 through August 27. The Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, headquartered in McAllen, was honored as the Medium Chamber of the Year. In addition, Pepe Cabeza de Vaca, publisher of Socialife magazine, was honored as the Business Man of the Year. The awards were given out at the annual Chairman’s Gala on August 26. The RGV Hispanic Chamber was recognized for their work on issues that impact small business, education, legislative affairs, women, and health. It was noted that the RGVHCC had also extended their services to the entire Rio Grande Valley. This makes the 10th award in the past 12 years from the Texas State Chamber that the RGVHCC has received. “We are extremely proud to be able to represent the Rio Grande Valley. Due to the economic hardships, it has been hard at times to put forth our program of work, but our dedication to our membership is what has kept us going,” said Cynthia M. Sakulenzki, president and CEO of the RGV Hispanic Chamber. Cabeza de Vaca, who also is a member of the RGVHCC, was publicly recognized for successfully guiding his publishing interests, which now are circulated in Starr County as well as Hidalgo County, plus he has added health and kids social magazines. “We are extremely proud that a member of our chamber would be honored with such an honor,” Sakulenzki emphasized.
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Rep. Aaron Peña, R-Edinburg, and Rep. Verónica Gonzáles, D-McAllen, whose legislative districts include Edinburg, are noting the economic influence of the performance arts complex, whose auditorium is featured in this rendition, and other upcoming academic and physical improvements to the largest state university south of San Antonio. “The completion of the fine arts center and the other major investments by the UT System are going to have a deep and lasting impact in our community,” said Peña. “Young people interested in pursuing careers in medicine, science, technology and the arts will have some wonderful tools at their disposal.” Peña was the coauthor of House Bill 153, supported by the Valley state legislative delegation, that included hte funding for the facility. “Good things come to those who wait,” Gonzáles said. “It took a while for monies we secured years ago to fund this project to become a reality, but it will definitely be worth the wait. UTPA is one of the finest educational institutions in this state and it deserves a top-of-the-line Fine Arts Center. The benefits it will bring not only to students, but to all our community will be endless.” See lead story later in this posting.
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by Legislative Media | Feb 8, 2011 | Politics
Following statewide power outages last week as a result of a massive winter storm that impacted much of the nation, Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst on Monday, February 7, said that two Senate panels will review the event and determine what changes need to be made to ensure the reliability of electricity in Texas. Very cold weather was blamed for more than 80 generation stations in Texas going down on Wednesday, February 2, causing periodic blackouts around the state due to the loss of capacity. Dewhurst said he has charged Sen. John Carona, R-Dallas, chairman of the Business and Commerce Committee, and Sen. Troy Fraser, R-Horseshoe Bay, who chairs the Natural Resources Committee, to hold a joint session to hear testimony regarding the issue. The joint meeting will try and find the root cause of the problem, and what Texas power generators can do to prevent future outages. "I think the operators understand that they're on the hook to supply power and it's not there," Dewhurst said. "We're going to look at the market and make sure that it works so that people have dependable, predictable electricity. If certain changes have to be made, then we'll consider those." In a winter marked by several crippling storms, the storm of February 1–2, 2011, stands out. Heavy snow, ice, freezing rain, and frigid wind battered about two thirds of the United States, making it “a winter storm of historic proportions,” said the National Weather Service. This image from the NOAA-NASA GOES 13 satellite shows the giant storm developing and moving across the country between January 31 and February 2.
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Sen. Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa, D-McAllen, on Thursday, January 27, proudly tried his hand at singing in the State Capitol rotunda with the renowned University of Texas-Pan American Mariachi Aztlán as part of UT-Pan American Day. Nearly 100 UTPA faculty, staff, students and alumni participated in the legislative lobbying effort to help convince state lawmakers, who are facing up to a $27 billion state budget shortfall, to avoid inflicting severe reductions in state money for key university programs and student scholarships. Hinojosa confirmed the Valley delegation's support for access to higher education opportunities. "I am what I am today because of UT-Pan American and we will make sure that UTPA gets the funding it needs," Hinojosa said. "The university expands horizons of many South Texas students, it creates opportunity and fulfills dreams." Also featured in the background are Rep. Verónica Gonzáles, D-McAllen, who is facing Dr. Robert S. Nelsen, president of The University of Texas-Pan American. "Education changes lives and families," Gonzáles said."We will fight for funding so you and future generations can continue to go to college … because education is the key to success." See story later in this posting.
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Dr. Shirley A. Reed, president of South Texas College, lobbied state lawmakers on Friday, January 21, at the STC Starr County campus in Rio Grande City when several dozen legislators were participating in a legislative trip sponsored by the Valley Partnership. Reed, featured here addressing Rep. Aaron Peña, R-Edinburg, center, and Sen. Tommy Williams, R-The Woodlands, fears that initial state budgets prepared by the Senate Finance Committee and the House Appropriations Committee, would have a dramatic negative effect on the two-county community college system. "For South Texas College specifically, the cuts in the preliminary budgets mean that overall we would see our projected funding from the state decrease by anywhere from 12 to 17 percent," said Reed. "Already our students are burdened by paying a little more than 42 percent of our $133 million a year operating budget." Reed details her concerns in a column that she has sent out to the area news media, and which is included later in this posting.
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As an influential delegation of political, business and community leaders were in Austin on Wednesday, February 2, to accept congratulatory resolutions in both legislative chambers honoring the City of Palms on its 100th anniversary, they left much more than their calling cards and gift baskets with the Texas Legislature. They submitted a long list of legislative priorities, which includes the city's support for state-sanctioned gambling in McAllen, beefed-up border security measures, more money for its emerging University of Texas-Pan American teaching site, and additional university-level degree programs at South Texas College. Featured on the Senate floor following passage of a legislative resolution honoring McAllen on its centennial are, from left: Sen. Eddie Lucio, Jr., D-Brownsville; Steve Alhenius, president and CEO, McAllen Chamber of Commerce; Don King, chairman of the Board of Directors, McAllen Economic Development Corporation; Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst; Bob McCreery, member of the Board of Directors, McAllen Chamber of Commerce; McAllen District 5 City Commissioner John J. Ingram; McAllen District 2 City Commissioner Marcus C. Barrera; and Sen. Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa, D-McAllen. See story later in this posting.
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Diana Peña, vice president of finance and administrative services for South Texas College, on Monday, January 24, was honored by the STC Board of Trustees for her more than 12 years of dedicated service to the college. She retired from her full-time position at the end of January, but will remain on a part-time consulting basis. Peña, a Rio Grande City native, has been with the college since 1998. She oversaw a variety of crucial services that ensure the college runs and functions on a daily basis, including maintenance, facilities, security, human resources and all financial and business functions, excluding financial aid. She managed an annual budget of more than $130 million. Featured, front row, from left: Rose Benavidez, STC board vice-president; Diana Peña; STC President Shirley A. Reed; Gary Gurwitz, STC board chairman; and Roy De León, STC board trustee. Featured, back row, from left: STC board trustees Dr. Alejo Salinas Jr., Jesse Villarreal, and Óscar Longoria Jr., who also serves as STC board secretary. See story later in this posting.
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The Texas House of Representatives on Thursday, January 27, approved two resolutions – one designating UT-Pan American Day at the Texas Capitol, and a second measure honoring Dr. Robert S. Nelsen, president of the University of Texas-Pan American – which were jointly authored by the the majority of the Valley's state House legislative delegation. A nearly 100-member delegation of UTPA officials, students and alumni gathered at the Capitol to lobby lawmakers, urging them to protect state funding for the largest university south of San Antonio. Featured presenting the two measures – House Resolution 221 and House Resolution 222 – before the full House were, from left: Rep. Verónica Gonzáles, D-McAllen; Rep. Dan Branch, R-Dallas; Rep. Sergio Muñoz, Jr., D-Mission; Rep. José Manuel Lozano, D-Kingsville; Rep. Eddie Lucio, III, D-San Benito; Rep. Armando "Mando" Martínez, D-Weslaco; and Rep. Aaron Peña, R-Edinburg. See story later in this posting.
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