Earlier this month, Lt. Governor David Dewhurst appointed Sen. Judith Zaffirini, D-Laredo, featured here reading to elementary school students, to the Select Committee on Redistricting. In her guest column, featured later in this posting, Zaffirini explains how the upcoming congressional redistricting battles in the Texas Legislature next spring will have a major impact on how much federal money comes for public school education. Zaffirini says South Texans can help funnel more federal funds for local school districts by fully participating in the final rounds of the U.S. Census. "An accurate census count is critical to fair representation for all Texans. Congressional seats are awarded to states based on population, and regions of Texas with greater population are given greater representation in the state legislature and board of education," she contends. "Census counts also will play a major role in determining how $4 trillion in federal funds will be spent over the next decade for critical needs including roads, hospitals, school lunch programs and senior centers."   

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The Edinburg Chamber of Commerce Restoration Committee has undertaken the task of preserving the Southern Pacific Train Depot, a historic site constructed in 1927 that has served the community and the Valley for many decades, including housing the local chamber and the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation. The facility was presented with a historical designation by the Texas Historical Commission once the initial restoration project was completed in 1995. Volunteers of the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce Depot Restoration Committee, members of the Board of Directors and Chamber staff have united to restore one of the city’s jewels. Committee members gathered recently to plan the next phase of the ongoing restoration project. Featured, from left: Marty Martin, Rio Valley Realty; Flo Prater, Rio Valley Realty; Letty  González, President of the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce; Elva Jackson Garza, Depot Restoration Committee Chair; Maggie Kent, General Dentistry Centers; and Johnny Rodríguez, Austin Personnel Services and Chairman-Elect of the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce. See story later in this posting.  

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On Tuesday, July 13, the Workforce Solutions (WFS)Board of Directors recognized Cellular One for their continued support and creation of jobs in South Texas by presenting the telecommunications company with an Employer Partnership Award. In April 2008, Cellular One approached WFS with the idea of creation a call center in McAllen – their first in Texas.

With an initial staff of 20 employees, the Cellular One call center now employes 79 staff members – who also receive excellent benefits packages – which were referred by WFS. Featured, from left: John Hershey, Workforce Solutions; Rosie Welborn, Cellular One; Sam Vale, Workforce Solutions Board Chairman; and Ryan Murphy, Cellular One.  

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Alexander Cantú, a graduate of Edinburg North High School, was one of four Edinburg area students who were recently honored for their academic achievements with public recognition and scholarships by the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors Committee. The Ambassadors Committee last month held the 1st Annual Night Golf Tournament, which raised $4,000 for scholarship funds for Cantú and three other worthy students: Evan Brough, a graduate of the South Texas BETA Academy; Alexis García, a graduate of Edinburg High School; and Christian Henry, a graduate of Johnny G. Economedes High School. Those funds also were used for a restoration project for the Edinburg Depot, which currently houses the chamber of commerce and the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation. Featured with Cantú is Celeste Cabrera, a Chamber Ambassador, who also co-chaired the Night Golf Tournament. 

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Evan Brough, a graduate of the South Texas BETA Academy, featured right, proudly accepts his Certificate of Accomplishment, which also brought an academic scholarship, during a recent ceremony hosted by the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce. Bough, shown here receiving the public recognition from Martín Rivas, Director of Membership for the local chamber, was one of four Edinburg high school graduates who were awarded scholarships from proceeds of a June 11 golf tournament hosted by the chamber. In addition to Brough, the other accomplished area high school graduates who were honored and bestowed with scholarships were: Alexander Cantú, a graduate of Edinburg North High School; Alexis García, a graduate of Edinburg High School; and Christian Henry, a graduate of Johnny G. Economedes High School. The golf tournament, held on Friday, June 11 at the Ebony Municipal Golf Course, fielded teams whose entry fees help raise the crucial funds for the scholarships and the renovation work. From that competition, the follow teams placed accordingly: 1st Place: Jerry Salazar, Eric Cubriel, Víctor Prado, and Adolfo Cubriel; 2nd Place: Albert Ochoa, Chris Brasher, Eloy Alberete, and Mike Salinas; and 3rd Place: Guy Marroquín, Justin Esparza, and Rey Chavana. 

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Alexis García, featured right, a graduate of Edinburg High School, poses with Celeste Cabrera, a member of the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors Committee, after being honored by that group for the EHS student’s achievements in school, a ceremony which included García receiving a scholarship from the Ambassadors Committee. In addition to  García, the other accomplished area high school graduates who were honored and bestowed with scholarships were: Evan Brough, a graduate of the South Texas BETA Academy; Alexander Cantú, a graduate of Edinburg North High School; and  Christian Henry, a graduate of Johnny G. Economedes High School. The Ambassadors Committee also expressed their appreciation to the following sponsors for their commitment and support for: Allure Marketing Firm; Berton Auto Industrial; Beyamar Home Health & Hospice; Briggs Equipment; Budweiser; Convention + Expo Management Services LLC; Edinburg International Race Track; Edinburg Road Runners; Elsa State Bank; Gilbert Enríquez Enterprises; H20 Only; Home Depot Store #516; Klean Kits; Law Office of Roy Valdéz; ING/Rolando J. Guerra & Associates; Magic Valley Electric; Melden & Hunt; Lowes; Pro Nails II; Ramón’s BBQ; Rescue EMS; Sandia Depot; Security Depot;  Stepping Stones Rehabilitation; Tiger Rock Taekwondo; and Valley Grande Manor. 

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South Texas Health System has recently named Steven C. Foster as Chief Operating Officer for Edinburg Regional Medical Center and Edinburg Children’s Hospital. “I am pleased to announce the promotion of Steven Foster to the position of Chief Operating Officer at Edinburg Regional Medical Center and Edinburg Children’s Hospital,” said Douglas Matney, Vice President of the Acute Care Division and Group Director for South Texas Health System. “We extend congratulations to Steven on his promotion and wish him continued success.” As Chief Operating Officer, Foster will help lead Edinburg Regional Medical Center and Edinburg Children’s Hospital’s strategic, operational, and administrative activities with Linda Resendez, RN, CEO. See story later in this posting. 

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Prayers in South Texas were answered on June 30, when Hurricane Alex, shown here a day  earlier as an approaching tropical storm, was making a predicted path to the Valley. But the powerful eye of the soon-to-be Category 2 hurricane moved westward instead, striking northeastern Mexico with heavy rain and powerful winds of more than 100 miles per hour. Although deep South Texas was spared a dreaded repeat of Hurricane Dolly in 2008 – where damages exceeded $1 billion – the northern section of Hurricane Alex still managed to dump

up to a foot of rain in key areas of the Valley, causing flooding problems, shutting down businesses, and related concerns. Hurricane Alex was the first tropical cyclone to form in the 2010 Atlantic hurricane season, which is expected to be one of the more active hurricane seasons in recent years. The 2010 Atlantic hurricane season doesn’t end until November 30. 

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As day breaks over the Gulf of Mexico on Tuesday, June 29, an opening in the clouds of Hurricane Alex allows the Hurricane Hunter aircrew aboard a WC-130J Hercules a brief glimpse of the water surface. The powerful storm, the strongest June hurricane to make landfall in the U.S. since 1966, came ashore late that evening on an unpopulated stretch of coast in northern Mexico about 110 miles south of Brownsville. Alex reached Category 2 classification on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale with sustained winds of 105 miles per hour, and spawned tornadoes in southern Texas. See story later in this posting.  

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After recovering from a hard weekend of activities and "Honey Do’s", mark your calendar to do some fun business networking at the McAllen Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Manic Monday Mixer to be held on Monday, July 12 at Pepper’s at Uptown, 4620 N. 10th, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Special drink prices will be offered as well as some appetizers. Come and meet MHCC members and learn how the Hispanic Chamber has been recognized as the Top Small Chamber of Texas as well as the nation. The MHCC’s focus on small business has been recognized throughout the country as well as their work on education, health, women’s issues and government issues. Bring plenty of business cards to exchange with your new contacts.  Door prizes will also be given. Featured making plans for the July 6 mixer are, from left: Hari Namboodiri, a member of the MHCC Advisory Board; Oneida López, chef; Fernando Niño, general manager; Cynthia M. Sakulenzki, MHCC president and CEO, and Giselle Mascarenhas-González, general manager. 

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Samuel García, a rising junior at Sharyland High School in Mission, poses with Congressman Henry Cuellar, D-Laredo/McAllen, during a recent visit to Cuellar’s office in Washington, D.C. García is in Washington, D.C. through July 11 as part of the Georgetown University Junior Statesmen Summer School program, a student-run organization aimed at increasing civil engagement and fighting apathy among young people. The summer program is sponsored by The Junior Statesmen Foundation and allows students to take college level courses while still in high school as well as having the opportunity to tour Capitol Hill, the CIA, and the Pentagon. 

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South Texas and McAllen leaders gathered on October 21, 2003 for the ground-breaking ceremony of the Alfredo González Texas Veterans Home in the City of Palms, one of the most highly-sought state facilities in Texas that year. Bringing the $13 million, 160-bed veterans nursing complex was one of the major milestones that year for McAllen, and that success has become part of the community’s many milestones as it approaches its 100th anniversary next February. Work is already well underway to capture – in printed words and photographic images – that event and other major highlights of what has become one of the most influential and highly-regarded cities along the U.S.-Mexico border. "The McAllen Chamber of Commerce, in conjunction with McAllen Centennial Publications, is publishing a beautiful, professionally produced, hard-covered keepsake historical book on McAllen’s first 100 years," reports Eileen Mattie, a prolific South Texas writer who will be the author of the landmark publication, McAllen’s First 100 Years – Leading the Way. Among the city’s elected leadership featured in this 2003 photograph are, from left: McAllen City Commissioner Ric Godínez; Rep. Roberto Gutiérrez, D-McAllen; McAllen Mayor Leo Montalvo; Congressman Eligio "Kika" De la Garza, D-Mission; Rep. Aaron Peña, D-Edinburg; Rep. Ismael "Kino" Flores, D-Palmview; Sen. Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa, D-McAllen; and McAllen City Commissioner Jan Klinck. See lead story in this posting. 

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Texas Transportation Commission officials, joined by Sen. Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa, D-McAllen, Hidalgo County Judge  René  A. Ramírez, Hidalgo County Commissioner Héctor “Tito” Palacios, and other local transportation leaders, on Thursday, June 24, announced $78.5 million in pass-through funds for two major Hidalgo County transportation projects that will connect NAFTA truck traffic from the five ports to area industrial zones and to U.S. Highway 281. The funds are leveraging an estimated $400 million in local revenue that will be used toward building major components of the proposed Trade Corridor Connector (TCC) and the International Bridge Trade Corridor (IBTC). “My colleagues in the Texas Legislature and I are proud of the progress we’ve made in securing critical funding for building the physical infrastructure in South Texas," said Hinojosa. "We need to sustain that progress, especially during difficult budget times, so that industry and commerce can continue to thrive in this fast-growing region." Featured following the funding action by the Transportation Commission are, from left: Jacinto Garza, P.E.; Michael G. Cano, a member of the Hidalgo County Regional Mobility Authority (RMA) board of directors; Dennis Burleson, chairman of the Hidalgo County RMA board of directors; Hidalgo County Judge René A. Ramírez; Hidalgo County Commissioner Héctor “Tito” Palacios; and Godrey Garza, executive director for the Hidalgo County RMA. See lead story in this posting. 

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McAllen attorney Gary Gurwitz, featured left in this file photo, on Wednesday, June 23, was selected by his colleagues to serve as chairman of the South Texas College Board of Trustees, setting into play the political leadership structure which soon will have to deal with yet-undisclosed expansion plans for the two-county community college system – and how to pay for it. Gurwitz, flanked by Mike Allen, who he succeeded as chairman, immediately had to deal with other money issues during the trustees’ special meeting, held at the Pecan Campus in McAllen. The STC governing board approved pay raises, effective September 1, ranging from three percent to five percent, for all STC employees, and authorized a five percent cut in its current budget, the result of a mandated $1.5 million drop in state revenues. See story later in this posting. 

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National, state and local leaders on Thursday, June 24, gathered at South Texas College’s Technology Campus in McAllen to celebrate the regional launch of the English for Manufacturing and the Skilled Trades Initiative. The initiative training consists of an interactive, technology-based curriculum derived from the proven and innovative language learning program, Sed de Saber. The program ensures efficient and functional acquisition of workplace communication skills, such as understanding directions and important health and safety measures, using proper manufacturing vocabulary, and reading and interpreting administrative forms. Featured, front from left: Jennifer McNelly, senior vice president for The Manufacturing Institute; Andrés Alcantar, commissioner representing the public for the Texas Workforce Commission; and Blas Castañeda, chief external affairs and economic development officer for Laredo Community College. Featured from left, back row: Rose Benavidez, vice-chair of the STC Board of Trustees; Rafael Vargas, account manager for Sed de Saber; Wanda Garza, executive officer, the North American Advanced Manufacturing Research and Education Initiative; and Keith Patridge, CEO for the McAllen Economic Development Corporation. See story later in this posting. 

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Have competitive employees? Want to promote your company while giving your employees an opportunity to bond and have a good time? Sign up for the annual McAllen Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Summer Corporate Olympics, scheduled for Friday, August 6 at the La Vista Park. The $500 entry fee will cover 30 employees, friends or relatives with an Olympic company t-shirt, food and beverages. The Summer Corporate Olympics has games for both individuals and for team competition. A limit of 14 teams is allowed. Featured making preparations for the Summer Corporate Olympics and representing the games in the upcoming event, are, front row, from left: Jeanette Noone, Tug-of-War; Dianela Morantes, Volleyball Tournament; Rudy Cordova, Spinning Bat; and Julio García with the Tug-of-War. Back row, from left: Blake Kelley; Cynthia M. Sakulenzki with the Sack Race; Rick Cavazos with the Shot Put and the Horseshoe Toss; and Mireya Lozano and Hilda Solis with the 3-Legged Sack Race. For more information call the MHCC office at 928-0060. 

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Prospective contestants for the Miss Edinburg Pageant, which will be held on August 14, have until Wednesday, June 30 to submit their applications for the event, says Minerva Olivarez, Director for the Miss Edinburg  Pageant, who is featured left. Letty González, president with the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce, is featured right during the pageant update. Contestants for Miss Edinburg Teen should be between 14 and 16 years of age, while contestants for Miss Edinburg should be between 17 and 20 years of age. All candidates must be Edinburg residents. Winners will receive scholarships in the Teen and Miss divisions, be awarded a crystal crown, roses, banner and other awards. Winners will have the opportunity to represent the City of Edinburg at various functions such as socials, luncheons and ribbon cuttings. “We are so excited about the upcoming pageant and look forward to meeting all interested applicants. Miss Edinburg and Miss Edinburg Teen will be highlighted throughout the city of Edinburg.  This will be a great honor to receive. We welcome you all,” said Olivarez. More information is available by calling Olivarez at 956/929-0510 or via e-mail at: missedinburgpageant@yahoo.com .  

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Loli Gómez-Peña, featured right, a member of the Red Coat Ambassadors with the Weslaco Chamber of Commerce, welcomed state and local leaders on Friday, June 11, to the grand opening of a state agency field office, whose staff will help dozens of local governments in deep South Texas promptly and properly administer more than $47 million in federal funds to recover from infrastructure damages caused almost two years ago by Hurricane Dolly. The field office, which is being run by the Texas Department of Rural Affairs, will provide key guidance as Rio Grande Valley communities invest recently-approved federal grants to pay for roads, power generators, and water and sewer systems damaged by Hurricane Dolly, which hit the Valley with winds of up to 100 miles per hour and caused widespread flooding, dumping 10 to 20 inches of rain in late July 2008. However, for residents whose homes were damaged by Hurricane Dolly, another state agency – the Texas Department of Housing – is helping handle claims for those losses. Featured, from left: Rep. Armando "Mando" Martínez, D-Weslaco; Gilbert Sandoval, representing Rep. Eddie Lucio, III, D-San Benito; Charles "Charlie" Stone, TDRA’s executive director; Joel Vanderveer, Red Coat Ambassador; Randy Young, TDRA deputy executive director; Michael Thomas, Red Coat Ambassador; Maricela De León, representing Rep. Aaron Peña, D-Edinburg; Braulio Gonzáles, Red Coat Ambassador; and Loli Gómez-Peña, Red Coat Ambassador. See story later in this posting. 

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The Edinburg Chamber of Commerce is currently accepting applications for Leadership Edinburg Class XXII. Leadership Edinburg is a growing organization that strives to encourage a better Edinburg through strong leadership skills focusing on politics, education, and quality of life. It is a nine-month program which helps local business and civic leaders become involved in the community. More than 500 graduates have taken the challenge and completed each program of work. Graduates of Leadership Edinburg typically continue to apply what they learned and demonstrate it by showing interest in community involvement, including serving on committees and at times in politics. Class XXII will kick off its day-and-a-half retreat in September. Tuition is $400, with the deadline to submit an application in August. For more information on Leadership Edinburg or to register, individuals may call Letty González at the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce at 956/383-4974. Members of the Leadership Edinburg steering committee are featured, from left: Imelda Rodríguez, Lee Castro, Flo Prater, Cynthia Bocanegra, Letty González, Edna Peña, Roy Peña and Marty Martin.  

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Arjun Sanga, J.D., on Tuesday, June 15, was named executive director of South Texas Technology Management, a regional technology transfer office that serves four University of Texas institutions (the UT Health Science Center at San Antonio, UT San Antonio (UTSA), UT Brownsville and UT-Pan American). “I am extremely excited about coming to this position,” Sanga said. “The UT Health Science Center at San Antonio has experienced exponential growth in research in the last five years and has recruited faculty stars from around the country. UTSA is on an accelerated path toward Tier One status and is doing a great job of hiring outstanding faculty. UT-Pan American and UT Brownsville are making important contributions to the Valley, and we have an opportunity to partner with them to continue to create companies and to spin off products that will be of benefit to the region." See story later in this posting. 

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A Business Matchmaking Event hosted by the McAllen Chamber of Commerce and CANACINTRA Reynosa, in collaboration with the Mexican Consulate in McAllen, the McAllen Economic Development Corporation, and the University of Texas Small Business Development Center has been rescheduled for Thursday, July 1, at the McAllen Chamber Conference Room, 1200 Ash Avenue. The event is expected to provide members of both communities with opportunities that could result in new business relations and lead to sales increases as well as cost savings. Also, as part of this event, a seminar with presentations from the different collaborators will be held covering areas such as How to Start a Business in McAllen, Import & Export Requirements and Immigration for Investors, among others. “This matchmaking effort was originally scheduled for June 18, and it has been rescheduled to accommodate the needs of the different types of businesses interested in participating,” said Luis Cantú, featured left, the Vice President of Inter American Relations for the McAllen chamber. “Similar events were conducted with the State of Veracruz in the past with very positive results and we expect it will be as successful this time with our sister city of Reynosa." For more information on how to participate, please contact Cantú at the Chamber at (956) 682-2871 or by e-mail at lcantu@mcallenchamber.com. Featured with Cantú is Consul Erasmo Martínez, head of the Mexican Consulate in McAllen. 

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With his wife, Janie, looking on – and holding the Bible used in the ceremony – Hidalgo County Judge J.D. Salinas, left, on Monday, January 1, 2007, took his oath of office from his mentor and friend, former Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts John Sharp. On Wednesday, June 16, Janie Cuellar Salinas was mourned by hundreds of family members and friends during a funeral mass at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church in Weslaco following her unexpected passing in Ft. Worth on Saturday, June 12. Following her funeral Mass, Sharp credited her as being an equal partner with her husband in all aspects of their marriage. "Everybody who met Janie for five minutes knew her well. What you saw was what you got. She was enthusiastic, a wonderful person, a natural politician herself," Sharp remembered. "What a shock. Who would have thought that someone would have been taken at that age?" However, Sharp shared his faith that Janie Salinas is indeed in a better place. "She’s in good shape. We shouldn’t worry about her. We think we have a real good idea where she is at," Sharp said. "But I’m going to miss her, a lot of people are going to miss her, and J.D.’s going to miss her, especially." See lead story in this posting. 

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Ryan Evans, a 6′6" star forward for McAllen High School’s powerhouse Class 5-A basketball team – which earlier this year finished ranked 14th best in Texas – has proven when it comes to hitting the boards on the hardwood and hitting the books in the classroom, his results are always the same: he delivers like a champion. During a ceremony in the McHi gymnasium on Tuesday, June 1, Evans, committed to play NCAA Division III basketball for Schreiner University in Kerrville, a renowned liberal arts institution whose sterling reputation includes being named one of the best colleges in the nation by U.S. News and World Report. Evans, who helped McAllen earn championships at the district, bi-district, area, regional quarterfinals, and regional semi-final levels three consecutive years, also earned a place on the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches Academic All-State Team. He pulled great numbers in his chosen sport, averaging 13.4 points and 7.1 rebounds per game, while shooting for the stars in the classroom, making the National Honor Society and maintaining a 3.91 grade point average. "I want to congratulate Ryan and his family for his accomplishments," said Bulldogs Basketball Head Coach Roy Swift. "He has been a great player to have in our program for four years. He has a great attitude to go along with his height and his size. He came to school every day, and every day for us for practice, willing to work hard. There’s a tremendous upside for Ryan, and I am just proud of him." Featured, from left: Evans’ grandmother, Marylin Vandever; his brother, Drew; his mother, Dana; Ryan Evans; his father, Robert; and his coach at McHi, Roy Swift. See lead story in this posting. 

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With knowledge that June 1 was the official start date of the 2010 Hurricane Season, Hidalgo County leaders, including Hidalgo County Judge René  A. Ramírez, whose broadcast image is featured here on Tuesday, May 18, during the Hurricane Preparedness Conference hosted by the City of McAllen, continues to promote preparedness and inform area communities of several upcoming activities and training. Ramírez said he will continue to promote the Valley’s unified approach to disaster response, should Hidalgo County or the Rio Grande Valley at large be impacted by a storm this season. “Our approach to getting ready for a disaster is to be proactive. Each year, we build upon lessons learned. From Hurricane Dolly (in July 2008), we learned about the effect that lack of electricity could have on our residents and our facilities, the magnitude that flooding, even from a Category 1 storm, can have on lives and property — especially in our rural low-lying areas — and we definitely learned tips about setting up shelters and points of distribution for food and ice,” Ramírez said. “We have taken steps to improve our infrastructure, and we will continue to reach out to the public so they can be as prepared as possible. We prepare for the unexpected.” See story later in this posting.   

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For the second consecutive year, Edinburg FOOTCARE Doctor, owned by Dr. David H. Fridie, II, DPM (Doctor of Podiatric Medicine) and his wife, Dr. Beverly Ashley-Fridie, has been selected for the 2010 Best of Edinburg Award in the podiatrist category by the U.S. Commerce Association (USCA). The USCA "Best of Local Business" Award Program recognizes outstanding local businesses throughout the country. Each year, the USCA identifies companies that they believe have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and community. Nationwide, only one in 70 (1.4%) 2010 Award recipients qualified as two-time Award Winners. Edinburg FOOTCARE Doctor is located at 2808 Fountain Plaza Blvd in Edinburg. See story later in this posting. 

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Victor Castillo, featured left, representing the McAllen Chamber of Commerce, and Sgt. Kenneth Kuykendall with the Texas Army National Guard, on Tuesday, June 8, announced that the Texas Army National Guard will hold the 2011 Yellow Ribbon Conference next January at the McAllen Convention Center. The two-day event will draw more than 1,000 persons and result in about 500 room lodgings for hotels who are members of the McAllen Chamber of Commerce. The legislatively-mandated Yellow Ribbon program provides information, services, referrals and proactive outreach programs to service members of the National Guard and Reserves and their families through all phases of the deployment cycle. The intent of the program is to prepare and sustain Texas military personnel and their families prior and during deployment, and then help reintegrate those veterans with their families, communities and employers upon re-deployment or release from active duty. See story later in this posting. 

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As members of the Boys & Girls Clubs nationally are embarking on their next phase of life following their high school graduation, a number are not considering college. When asked why, the most frequent response is the lack of money. The Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV, in partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of America and ConocoPhillips, has for the last 14 years addressed this obstacle for a number of their club members through the ConocoPhillips Scholarship Program. The local organization has announced there are three local recipients of this year’s ConocoPhillips Scholarship, featured, from left: George Bailey, Noé González and Christopher Vela of Edinburg High School. Each will be receiving a maximum of $3,000 per semester for a potential of up to $96,000. The ConocoPhillips scholarship is a partnership between the Boys & Girls Club of America and the ConocoPhillips Petroleum Company. In order to eligible for this scholarship the member must have been a senior with a “B” average and be a member of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV for at least two years. See story later in this posting. 

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The 5th Annual Texas Cook’em: High Steaks in Edinburg, set for Saturday, July 3 at the Edinburg Municipal Park, will feature activities that include more than just mouth-watering, award-winning barbeque competition.  The Edinburg World Birding Center will have a large presence in the hands-on Family Fun Zone along with the Dustin Michael Sekula Memorial Library, with plenty of games and exciting things to do for children of all ages – all free of charge. In conjunction with Texas Cook’em, the World Birding Center will be provide free tours of the facility, which is located on the same grounds. Those tours will be held at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. Later in the evening, live music will be provided by Elida Reyna, Zereno, Texas Heat and LA MAFIA.  A major fireworks display will kick off at 9:15 p.m. Texas Cook’em: High Steaks in Edinburg is part of a national competition, sanctioned by the International Barbeque Cookers Associations, that draws teams from throughout the country who compete for cash prizes for preparing the best barbeque in the following categories: T-bone steak; Chicken; Pork Spare Ribs; and Brisket. New to the cooking categories this year will be “Apple Pie”.  Anyone who wants to compete in the cooking extravaganza may call the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce at 956/383-4974, or log on to www.Edinburg.com, for a complete set of rules and regulations.  

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Sen. Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa, D-McAllen, praises Rep. Verónica Gonzáles (fifth from right) on Thursday, June 3, during a fashion style political campaign fundraiser, which drew more than a dozen fellow legislators and hundreds of her supporters. The event, which was hosted in Mission by her campaign, raised at least $65,000. "Everybody thinks this is a Republican district, but it isn’t. It is a Democratic district," the state senator proclaimed. "The Republicans keep running and running and get nowhere, because Veronica cannot be beaten. Verónica is one of the most influential legislators here in South Texas, and that’s why I’m voting for her." Gonzáles, an attorney whose House District 41 includes much of McAllen, southwest Edinburg and east Mission, is facing a challenge in November from McAllen businesswoman Rebecca Cervera, who is also from McAllen. Featured, from left: Rep. Lon Burnam, D-Ft. Worth; Rep. Tara Ríos Ybarra, D-South Padre Island; Rep. Joseph E. Moody, D-El Paso; Sen. Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa, D-McAllen; Rep. Marc Veasey, D-Ft. Worth; Rep. Verónica Gonzáles, D-McAllen; Rep. Ryan Guillen, D-Rio Grande City; Rep. Hubert Vo, D-Houston; Rep. Garnett Coleman, D-Houston; and Rep. Barbara Mallory Caraway, D-Dallas. See story later in this posting.   

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As the family of the late Pedro Cano of Edinburg listen intently, Gov. Rick Perry, whose image towered over them on a video screen in the Edinburg Auditorium, on Tuesday, May 18, praised the late World War II hero as "a young man who left this beautiful town to defend his adopted country and achieved far above and beyond the call of duty." Perry was in Edinburg to  posthumously bestow the Texas Legislative Medal of Honor upon Cano – and in a reference to all other men and women from Edinburg who have fought – and many who have died – for America, proclaimed Edinburg as the "Hometown for Heroes". Featured, from left: son Stephen Cano; daughter María Cano Arías; sister Alvina Cano Martínez; and daughter Dominga Cano Pérez. See story later in this posting. 

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Sen. Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa, D-McAllen, and Rep. Verónica González, D-McAllen, extend the region’s gratitude to several of Pedro Cano’s family on Tuesday, May 18, during a major gathering in the Edinburg Auditorium to posthumously bestow the Texas Legislative Medal of Honor upon the late World War II military hero. "Pedro Cano repeatedly risked his life to save the lives of his fellow soldiers and to help advance their mission, and for his extraordinary heroism he is most assuredly deserving of this state’s supreme military award; now," said Hinojosa, a U.S. Marines combat squad leader during the Vietnam War. "The 81st Legislature of the State of Texas hereby posthumously confers the Texas Legislative Medal of Honor on Pedro Cano in recognition of his courageous actions in World War II and express to his family its deepest appreciation on behalf of all his fellow Texans." Featured, from left: Sen. Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa, D-McAllen; Cano daughter María Cano Arías; Cano sister Alvina Cano Martínez; Cano daughter Dominga Cano Pérez; and Rep. Verónica Gonzáles. See story later in this posting. 

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Members of the Pedro Cano family, flanked left by Rep. Aaron Peña, D-Edinburg, and Gov. Rick Perry, flanked right, on Tuesday, May 18, accepted the Texas Legislative Medal of Honor from the state and local leaders, including (not shown in this image) Sen. Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa, D-McAllen, Rep. Verónica González, D-McAllen, and Edinburg Mayor Richard García, on behalf of the late World War II hero. The Texas Legislative Medal of Honor was established to honor gallant and intrepid service by a member of the state or federal military forces, and through his courageous actions in World War II, United States Army Private Pedro Cano distinguished himself as a worthy recipient of this prestigious award. See story later in this posting. 

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Flags in a row stand tall in front of their respected marker. More than 350,000 were placed in the ground during the “Flags In”  ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia, on Thursday, May 27, 2010. As South Texans marked the national holiday, a local veterans organization has released the names of 146 Valley men who were killed in action during the war in Vietnam. Fifteen of those Valley men killed in action in Vietnam were from Edinburg while were from McAllen.  Harlingen and Brownsville saw the largest numbers of local men from deep South Texas make the ultimate sacrifice – 23 and 22 killed in action, respectively – fighting for America’s freedom in Vietnam. See story later in this posting. 

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Rey Leal Jr. of Edinburg, a South Texas College student who served as a Marine during some of the heaviest fighting in Operation Iraqi Freedom, was recently profiled on CNN’s web site with a story entitled Facing enemy fire from behind the lens. CNN covered the prolific images captured by Leal during his tours in Iraq. Having served in the Marine Corps as an infantryman from 2004 to 2008, he  captured the behind-the-scenes moments that ordinary Americans rarely see. “By the time I joined the Marine Corps, I always had my camera with me,” he said. "When you look at the news, when you look at newspapers, you always see not the worst, but you always see the action," said Leal. "You never see the calm before the storm. A lot of the stuff I did was not actual combat, it was just the stuff we did, the down time, the stuff you never see. The profile of Leal can be found at http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/us/2010/05/26/military.photographer.leal.cnn?iref=allsearch. See story later in this posting. 

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Nine-year-old Jonathan Lerma of Edinburg on Monday, May 24, was able to return home from the hospital in his new wheelchair after an access ramp was graciously donated by two local businesses. Upon learning of the boy’s need, State Wide Roofing and Bullard Construction collaborated to provide the materials and labor to help build a ramp for Jonathan’s home while he underwent inpatient therapy at Edinburg Regional Rehab Center. “I think it’s fantastic that some of our local businessmen are joining in to help out,” said Edinburg City Councilmember Gus García. “It’s just an example of the fine leadership we have here in the community.” Featured, from left, front row: Dan Ogletree, Bullard Construction; Donato “Donut” Amaya, State Wide Roofing; Jonathan Lerma; Rubicella Salazar, Edinburg Regional Rehab Center; Edinburg City Councilmember Gus García. Back row, from left: Ronnie Martínez, Kevin Waters, and Joe Cano, Bullard Construction. See story later in this posting. 

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Mike Allen, featured left, and Gary Gurwitz, featured right, were sworn in on Thursday, May 27,  to continue serving District 3 and District 4, respectively, on South Texas College’s Board of Trustees. Both incumbents were the winners of elections held in early May. Allen will represent the interests of the constituents of south McAllen, southwest Pharr, Hidalgo, Sharyland, southeast Mission and Granjeno. Widely known as the retired president and CEO of the McAllen Economic Development Corporation, Allen has been a member of the board since May 2004. As the District 4 representative on the board, Gurwitz represents the constituents of north McAllen, northwest Pharr, Palmhurst, northeast Mission, and a portion of Edinburg. The managing partner at Atlas and Hall, Gurwitz was hand-selected by former Gov. Ann Richards to serve on STC’s founding Board of Trustees in 1993 with the inception of the college. Featured, from left: Mike Allen and his wife, Theresa Allen; U.S. District Judge Randy Crane, who administered the oaths of office; and Bailey Gurwitz and her husband, Gary Gurwitz. The terms for Allen and Gurwitz expire in May 2016. See lead story in this posting.    

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Efraín N. Martínez of Edinburg, featured left, reviews strategies for hurricane preparedness and recovery with Texas Land Commissioner Jerry Patterson on Monday, May 17, when both men appeared in McAllen at a public meeting of the House Select Committee on Emergency Preparedness. Patterson, a retired U.S. Marine whose state agency’s responsibilities include oil spill prevention and response programs, also said he favors reviewing all state funds to help come up with money to build a Veterans Administration Hospital in the Rio Grande Valley. Patterson, a Republican, is being challenged in the November general elections by former Sen. Hector Uribe, D-Brownsville. See lead story on the proposed VA Hospital in this posting.

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Numerous political and business leaders from McAllen on Thursday, May 20, pledged to work closely with its newest state legislator –  Rep.-elect Sergio Muñoz, Jr, D-Mission, featured left – during a public reception honoring the 28-year-old lawyer at the McAllen Chamber of Commerce. “We have a real challenging legislative session coming up in January,” Muñoz said. “Ahead of us we face one of the most important budgetary debates in recent memory, combined with the issue of redistricting, and also to see how we can still bring back more funding and resources to our great communities.” He said since his election on March 4, he has been traveling to Austin and throughout House District 36, preparing himself for his legislative and constituent work “to learn first-hand what is important so we can focus our legislative ideas.” Featured, from left: Rep.-elect Muñoz; McAllen City Commissioner Marcus Barrera; McAllen Mayor Pro Tem Hilda Salinas; and McAllen Mayor Richard Cortéz. See story later in this posting.

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Graduation day was held on Saturday, May 15, as South Texas College welcomed more than 18,000 community members to State Farm Arena to celebrate a major life milestone with friends and family members. During the college’s three ceremonies, more than 3,500 graduates were awarded certificates, associate degrees or bachelor degrees. STC also took the opportunity to celebrate its smallest graduates from its Mid-Valley Campus Child Care Development Center in Weslaco. Featured, from left, front: graduates Orlando Pardo and Baltazar Nuñez. From left, back: Juan Mejia, Vice President for Academic Affairs; Rep. Verónica Gonzáles, D-McAllen, who spoke at the college’s Division of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences commencement; STC President Shirley A. Reed; Margaretha Bischoff, STC Division Dean of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences; and William Serrata, Vice President for Student  Affairs and  Enrollment Management. See story later in this posting.

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The Edinburg Chamber of Commerce on Friday, June 11, will host the 1st Annual Night Golf Tournament, four-person team scramble at the Ebony Golf Course, 300 West Palm Drive. The Golf Tournament committee is currently seeking teams at several sponsorship levels beginning at $250 and reaching the $5,000 level. Prizes from $1,000 to $2,000 will be awarded based on an 18-team field. “There will be door prizes, a dinner plus we are also awarding five scholarships to each of the Edinburg High schools,” said Celeste Cabrera, golf committee co-chair. “This will be the Ambassador’s First Annual Night Golf Tournament, and we feel the importance of continuing fundraisers such as this, and in turn giving back to our community and promoting further education.” More information on the event is available by contact the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce at 383-4974 or online at www.Edinburg.com. Featured, from left: JP Tilburg; René Deanda; Letty González; Robert McGurk; Jeremy Martin; and Glen Morgan.

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Continuing to be an advocate of small business, the McAllen Hispanic Chamber of Commerce has become a satellite office to ACCIÓN Texas, a micro-loan lender for small business loans. ACCIÓN Texas is a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to providing the essential tools needed to grow a small business: credit and training. Many lenders do not offer loans to entrepreneurs without traditional collateral or sufficient credit history. That’s where ACCIÓN Texas is different. ACCIÓN Texas makes loans to small business owners with limited access to traditional sources of credit. Residents may be eligible for a variety of business loans between $500 to $100,000 or may be able to take advantage of one of their new products, such as the SBA 504 loans, which are loans from $200,000 to $4 million for commercial property and long term assets. ACCIÓN Texas will be at the McAllen Hispanic Chamber office on Thursday’s. To call and make an appointment call the MHCC office at 928-0060. Featured, from left: Dr. John Thomas, member, Small Business and Economic Development Advisory Board; Cynthia M. Sakulenzki, president and CEO for the McAllen Hispanic Chamber of Commerce; Marlene Rodríguez, loan officer, ACCIÓN Texas; and Lorena Silva, office manager, ACCIÓN Texas. See story later in this posting.

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Rep. Armando “Mando” Martínez, D-Weslaco, featured left, during a Monday, May 17 legislative hearing in McAllen, asked Texas Land Commissioner Jerry Patterson (not shown in this photograph) what that statewide elected leader can do to help rally state legislative support for the construction of a Veterans Affairs Hospital in the Rio Grande Valley. Patterson is the chairman of the Texas Veterans Land Board, which works with the federal government on mutual construction projects involving Texas State Veterans Homes, which are skilled nursing homes exclusively for veterans. Martínez was a joint author of legislation in 2009 which put Proposition 8 on the statewide ballot last November. Proposition 8, which was passed overwhelmingly by Texas voters, for the first time authorizes the state government to invest resources and money into the construction, maintenance and operation of VA Hospitals statewide. Patterson pledged to support the region’s efforts to improve medical care for Valley veterans. “Whether we build something that is a VA Hospital or a VA medical center, or we contract with all the full-range of services at some location here in the Valley, the mission is to provide the care,” Patterson said. “Veterans should no longer have to travel to San Antonio. I don’t care whether we call it a VA Hospital, I don’t care if we call it a state hospital. It needs to be done.” Featured, from left: Rep. Martínez; Rep.-elect Sergio Muñoz, Jr., D-Mission; and Rep. Tara Ríos Ybarra, D-South Padre Island. See lead story in this posting.

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With shovel blades and even the overturned earth bearing a gold coloring, Valley legislators literally and figuratively hit pay dirt in Weslaco on Friday, May 14, during the groundbreaking ceremony for the planned $40 million Department of Public Safety Regional Headquarters.

The complex will feature about 110,00 square feet and accommodate 212 employees, who will serve and protect area residents as a regional state public safety command center – including housing the Highway Patrol, Texas Rangers, and aircraft – plus focus on criminal investigations, intelligence and counter-terrorism, crime laboratory, communications, and emergency management. In addition, the complex will include a driver’s license facility, victim services, information technology, and agency support. It is expected to open for business by the summer of 2011. In 2007, the Texas Legislature, led by the Valley legislative delegation, authorized the funding for the construction of the facility, which will serve Hidalgo County. The Weslaco Economic Development Corporation, directed by Hernan Gonzalez, donated the 21-acre tract of land, which is located at the corner of FM 1015 and Sugar Cane Drive (Mile 9). Featured, from left: Rep.-elect J.M. Lozano, D-Kingsville; Steven C. McCraw, Director of the Texas Department of Public Safety; Weslaco Mayor Buddy De la Rosa; Sen. Eddie Lucio, Jr., D-Brownsville; Rep. Armando "Mando" Martínez, D-Weslaco; Rep. Aaron Peña, D-Edinburg; and Sen. Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa, D-McAllen. 

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Leadership Edinburg Class XXI on April 19 held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for one of its projects, a "Welcome to the City of Edinburg" monument located on the town square at the corner of McIntyre and Closner. The group, which is growing organization that strives to encourage a better Edinburg through strong leadership skills focusing on politics, education, quality of life, and more, has more than 450 graduates. Graduates of Leadership Edinburg typically continue to apply what they learned and demonstrate it by showing interest in community involvement including serving on committees and at times politics. Residents interested in participating in the next Leadership Edinburg Class may contact Letty González at 956/383-4974. Featured, from left: Emilio Santos; Lisa Chávez; Sal Martínez; María Medina; Abel Vaquera; Juan Uribe; and Maris Aguirre. Front row, from left: Myra L. Ayala-Garza; Jensid Álvarez; and Rita Flores. 

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Edinburg’s "Market Day", a planned monthly service of the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce and the Edinburg Convention and Visitors Bureau, will begin on Saturday, June 5, with the inaugural event to be held at the Town Square from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Market Day – scheduled for the first Saturday of every month – is designed to help revitalize businesses in that key section of the city, assist small entrepreneurs, and provide family entertainment, according to Edna Peña, a "Market Day" committee member who also serves on the local chamber’s board of directors. "Market Day" will be free to the public, who will be able to purchase various items that will be offered by area vendors. Business owners who wish to sell their products and services during "Market Day" may set up a booth for a $25 fee. For more information, residents and prospective vendors may contact the local chamber at 956/383-4974 or by logging on at www.Edinburg.com. Featured, from left: Edna Peña; Imelda Rodríguez, Director of Tourism of the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce; and Letty González, President of the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce. 

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The City of McAllen, McAllen Chamber of Commerce, and McAllen Economic Development Corporation on Thursday, May 20, will be hosting a reception to allow constituents to meet Rep.-elect Sergio Muñoz, Jr., D-Mission. The event, scheduled from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the McAllen Chamber of Commerce, will be conducted in a casual and informal setting. Muñoz, an area attorney and Palmview Municipal Court Judge, faces no opponent in the November general election for the two-year term, paving the way for him to be sworn into the Texas Legislature when it convenes in mid-January for its five-month regular session. An RSVP is required, so area constituents are being asked to confirm their attendance by contacting Michelle Rodriguez with the local chamber by e-mail at mrodriguez@mcallenchamber.com or at (956) 682-2871. In addition to hearing from residents on legislative issues important to them, the gathering also will allow Muñoz to share his vision for House District 36, which includes Granjeno, Hidalgo, southern McAllen, most of Mission, Palmview, Peñitas, and Pharr. 

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On Tuesday, May 11, Sen. Eddie Lucio, Jr., D-Brownsville (featured left), was presented a certificate in his Capitol office naming him to the Texas PTA Legislative Honor Roll by for his work during the 81st Legislative Session in 2009 to improve nutrition in public schools and address the childhood obesity epidemic. Lucio passed legislation that created the Early Childhood Health and Nutrition Interagency Council to develop an early childhood nutrition and physical activity plan. "Texas PTA applauds Sen. Lucio’s efforts to improve the health status of all Texas children," said Texas PTA President Sharon Goldblatt. "He was also honored for recognizing that students’ academic progress is directly tied to their physical health.” Presenting the honor to Sen. Lucio is Kyle Ward, executive director for Texas PTA. See story later in this posting. 

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Investing more state resources into helping border law enforcement agencies to crack down on the flow of guns, ammunition, stolen vehicles, and even criminal fugitives across the Texas border region’s international bridges into Mexico deserves a close look, says Rep. Armando "Mando" Martínez, D-Weslaco, featured right. That approach was proposed by McAllen Police Chief Victor Rodríguez  – and endorsed by McAllen Mayor Richard Cortéz – on Thursday, April 30, during a major legislative public hearing in McAllen by the House Committee on Border and Governmental Affairs and the House Committee on Public Safety. Martínez was one of more than a dozen state lawmakers who heard day-long testimony from a wide range of law enforcement, political, economic development, and community leaders who gathered at the McAllen Convention Center to discuss the threat of border violence spill-over from the ongoing battles in Mexico between Mexican military forces and criminal drug cartels. "With so much attention being placed on the importance of the Texas border region because we are a key economic asset to Texas, we have the opportunity to invest more state and federal funds for law enforcement and  public safety in our area," said Martínez. "Many important ideas came out of this legislative hearing, none more important, in my opinion, than what was proposed by McAllen." Featured, from left: Rep. Ryan Guillen, D-Rio Grande City; Rep. Joseph E. Moody, D-El Paso; and Rep. Armando "Mando" Martínez. See lead story later in this posting. 

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The Veterans Alliance of the Rio Grande Valley on Sunday, May 2, confirmed that Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst, a Republican, featured center in McAllen on Monday, February 1, along with Sen. Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa, D-McAllen, featured right, and Sen. Eddie Lucio, Jr., D-Brownsville, featured left, have invited U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki to come to South Texas and see for himself the need for a Veterans Affairs Hospital for the four-county region. In the correspondence dated April 21 and addressed to Shinseki on Dewhurst’s letterhead – and signed by Dewhurst, Hinojosa, and Lucio – the three state leaders requested a meeting, either in the Valley, at the Texas Capitol, or in Washington, D.C., to help persuade Shinseki to authorize the construction of a full-fledged VA Hospital in the Valley. "We are writing today to fulfill a promise to the veterans of the Lower Rio Grande Valley and also to follow up on recent efforts by Members of the Texas Delegation to secure Department of Veterans Affairs support for expanded health services in the Texas Rio Grande Valley. We must continue to improve access to health care to our veterans who served our country in defense of freedom and our way of life," the letter stated. Area veterans have been asking the Department of Veterans Affairs for a hospital for the last three decades. See story later in this posting. 

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The Rio Grande Valley is one of two areas of Texas with the lowest number of licensed pharmacists per 100,000 people. Alarming? Many South Texas leaders think so and that is why South Texas College and the Texas A&M University Irma Lerma Rangel College of Pharmacy are teaming up to prepare more pharmacists to meet a growing demand. The two institutions recently signed an agreement which would ensure that any South Texas College student who earns the college’s Associate of Science, Field of Study Pre-Pharmacy degree, will be guaranteed that all of their courses will transfer to the Rangel College following admission. On Friday, April 30, representatives from the two institutions of higher education celebrated the partnership in McAllen, including, seated, from left: Dr. Shirley Reed, president of South Texas College; Dr. Indra K. Reddy, dean of the Irma Rangel College of Pharmacy; and Dr. Charles Robertson, associate dean of student affairs for the Irma Rangel College of Pharmacy. Standing, from left: Dr. Max Abbassi, chair of STC’s Pre-Pharmacy Program; Dr. Theresa Garza, chair of STC’s Pharmacy Technician Program; Juan Mejia, STC vice president of academic affairs; and STC Pre-Pharmacy Program students Nelissa García and Yvette Cantú. See story later in this posting.  

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State and local leaders in Pharr on Friday, April 14, broke ground on a $4 million expansion of Sugar Road, which will help improve traffic flow between that city and Edinburg from Sioux Road to Owassa Road. Construction is scheduled to begin in mid-June and last through the end of 2011. State funds will pay for 95 percent of the project, said Sen. Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa, D-McAllen, who helped secure that funding. Edinburg is currently working on its own expansion of Sugar Road, which will help improve traffic from Pharr to Edinburg Regional Medical Center and Edinburg Children’s Hospital. Some of the more than one dozen area officials featured for the groundbreaking ceremony included, from left: Hidalgo County Precinct 2 Commissioner Héctor "Tito" Palacios; Pharr Mayor Leo "Polo" Palacios, Jr.; Sen. Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa, D-McAllen; Rep.-elect Sergio Muñoz, Jr., D-Mission; Roy Martínez; Hidalgo County Judge René A. Ramírez; Andrew Canon, executive director, Hidalgo County Metropolitan Planning Organization; and Eddie Sáenz, Pharr City Engineer. 

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More than 60 men, including officials with the FBI, area police departments, South Texas College, and political leaders, on Thursday, April 29, participated in Walk a Mile in Her Shoes, an event hosted by STC to draw attention to ending violence against women. Participating men strapped on high heels or decorated sandals and pink shirts during the one-mile march as part of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, which is recognized nationally during April. More information on this movement is available at www.walkamileinhershoes.org or by contacting Priscilla Flores with Mujeres Unidas/Women Together at 956/630-4878 or by e-mail at pyflores@aol.com 

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After welcoming state lawmakers participating in a rare dual-legislative committee hearing in Hidalgo County on Thursday, April 29, McAllen Mayor Richard Cortéz had choice words on how a growing number of the press – when reporting on Mexican military battles with criminal drug cartels in that country – are distorting what is really happening on the Texas side of the border. "We want the truth, and the truth is we have concerns about the violence in Mexico," Cortéz said, but cautioned, "There has to be a profit in sensationalizing information because everyone seems to pick that approach to disseminate information." Cortéz was addressing a packed house in one of the conference rooms at the McAllen Convention Center, which hosted the joint legislative hearing – led by Rep. Verónica Gonzáles, D-McAllen, and Rep. Tommy Merritt, R-Longview – to evaluate the effectiveness of state operations at controlling drug-related crimes and other violence along the Texas Mexico border. See lead story in this posting.

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Media are evolving and the multimedia skills that students at The University of Texas-Pan American are learning will make them more competitive in the job market, said media professionals at the first annual Communication Showcase at UTPA held on Tuesday, April 20. Speakers shared their personal experiences during what is being called a transitional period in history for news. They also provided feedback on student work and gave advice about a student’s future in the business of media. The communication showcase also served as the launch of the National Association of Hispanic Journalists (NAHJ) chapter at UTPA, the first and only student chapter in the Rio Grande Valley. NAHJ is the primary association for Hispanic journalists to encourage and support the study and practice of journalism by Hispanics. Its mission is to further the employment of Hispanics in the media and to improve coverage of the Latino community.  Three of the media professionals participating in the inaugural event included, from left: Will Ripley, reporter and anchor for KRGV Channel 5; Jeff Smith, copy editor/designer, The Monitor; and Ana Ley, reporter, The Monitor. See story later in this posting. 

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Area leaders are promoting the Valle Verde Landscape of the Month Project, a joint effort between the Edinburg Environment Advisory Board (EEAB), the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce, and the City of Edinburg’s Planning and Zoning Department and Urban Forestry Program. The program, originally launched by the city in the fall of 2006, seeks to encourage home and business owners to use native trees, shrubs and plants in their landscaping to promote the protection of the local environment. Featured, from left, reminding city residents of the program, are: Mark Peña and his wife Michelle Peña; Crystal Cavazos, Imelda Rodríguez, and Letty González with the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce; Letty Reyes with the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation; and Dr. Andrew McDonald. See story later in this posting. 

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The McAllen Hispanic Chamber of Commerce will be holding its monthly mixer for current and prospective members on Thursday, May 13, at the Stilo Design Show Room, located at the corner of N. Main St. and Hackberry. Food and refreshments will be provided during the networking event, which will be held from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Featured, from left: Leslie Garza with Stilo Design; Roxanna Godínez, MHCC vice chair of membership; Ismael García, owner of Stile Design; Lorenzo Olivarez, MHCC board treasurer; and Cynthia M. Sakulenzki, MHCC president and chief executive officer. More information is available by contact the McAllen Hispanic Chamber of Commerce at 928-0060. 

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Johnny García, managing partner of Ceballos-Díaz Funeral Home in Edinburg, was recently named Funeral Director of the Year by the South Texas Regional Funeral Directors Association, an 80-member professional organization of funeral directors from across the South Texas region. The honor was presented to García during the South Texas Funeral Directors Association annual spring meeting on South  Padre Island. Jack Sawyer, owner of Sawyer-George Funeral Home in Corpus Christi and president of STFDA, presented the coveted award on Thursday, March 11. “This award, the only award which funeral directors are judged by their peers, has been one of my goals since I became a funeral director 12 years ago,” García said. “When other funeral directors believe you are one of the best in their profession, this is truly one of the highest honors.” García, 35, who graduated from Edinburg High School in 1993, said his first experience with the funeral profession came 20 years ago when the funeral home handling his grandmother’s funeral needed someone to drive a hearse to the cemetery and García volunteered for the job. See story later in this posting.  

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Byron Jay Lewis, President and Director of Edwards Abstract and Title Co., based in Edinburg,  on Wednesday, April 21, announced the merger of three title insurance companies. Edwards Abstract and Title Co., Security Land Title Co. and Southern Texas Title Company will unite and emerge as Edwards Abstract and Title Co. “As owner of all three companies, it makes business sense to form one company that is stronger, and that will unite the talent and experience of our personnel,” said Lewis. "The merger is a natural evolution of the opportunities and energy of the past 10 years, and an integral part of the company’s new business model," he added. After 130 years of service in the Rio Grande Valley, the firm has continued to grow and change with the times. An important key to the success of Edwards Abstract and Title Co. has been the ability to set the pace for change in the title insurance industry in the Valley, and to adapt to market conditions during the past 13 decades. See story later in this posting. 

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In addition to being the first and only college in the entire state of Texas to earn the National Institute of Metalworking Skills Accreditation for its Precision Manufacturing Technology Program, now South Texas College can add a new accolade to its NIMS accomplishments. Mario Reyna, STC division dean of business and technology, was named to the organization’s board of directors for a three year term beginning on May 1, 2010. As a member of the 20 member board, Reyna will help establish and refine skill standards, vote on certification of individual skills and accreditation of training programs. 

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