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VOLuME 89 nuMBEr 03 LFISD Trustees recognized for Service Texans benefi t every lessly give of themselves The board members day from the tireless to ensure that decisions serving La Feria Indepen- work and countless hours directly affecting our lo- dent School District are: dedicated by a group of cal schools are made by Mr. Juan Briones, Presi- more than 7,300 men and representatives of this dent, Mr. Alan Moore, women in communities community. In these Vice President, Ms. across the state. These challenging times, they Gloria Casas, Secretary/ public servants are elect- face diffi cult choices and Treasurer, David Bazald- ed to serve by local con- shoulder critical respon- ua, Pancho Cobarrubias, stituents and receive no sibilities. Their ultimate and Javier Loredo. compensation for their goal is always focused Students representing see page 7 efforts. These men and on the future success of each campus will honor women are the school every student enrolled in and recognize Board board members of Texas. the district,” Dr. Cortez Members at a Special January is School Board said. Call Meeting on Janu- Recognition Month and “Our district is en- ary 23, 2012 at Lee Staff La Feria ISD will take riched by the contri- Development Cafeteria. by anjali Bhatla this opportunity to thank butions of these local Under our Board Leader- see page 3 these local leaders for citizens who truly care ship, a balanced budget La Feria ISD School Board Trustees devoting time to support about our kids. Serving was developed and ap- (L-R) Superintendent of Schools Dr. Nabor Cortez, Jr.; Trustee Pancho public education and as a crucial link between proved, three Elementary SHRINE GARAGE SALE Cobarrubias, Secretary-Treasurer Gloria Casas; Trustee David Bazaldua, serve our local schools. the community and Campuses were Recog- Thursday, Jan. 19 Board President Juan Briones and Trustee Javier Loredo ; not shown Vice- “Even though we are classroom, this board is nized, one campus and 8a-m - 2 pm President Alan Moore LFN Photo making a special effort responsible for an annual one Junior High received DONATIONS NEEDED in January to show ap- budget of $31 million, National Recognition by You can drop off donations at preciation to our board 3,700 students, 550em- the NCEA Higher Per- the Shrine club or call Possible Tackle youth members, we realize ployees, and 7campuses. forming Schools for stu- 797-1524 for pickup their contributions re- We applaud their efforts dent achievement, and (between 9 am and 1 pm) or Football League in La Feria fl ect a year-round com- to serve as advocates for the District and Cam- call Foster’s at 797-4923 At the city commission play on the team like in the meeting (January 24th) mitment,” said Nabor F. our children and the voice puses received 13 Gold meeting Tuesday ( Jan. pony leagues. whether or not to approve Cortez, La Feria ISD su- of public education,” (he/ Performance Awards. 10), Ruben Rodriguez, a “Our primary goal is the TYFA league. perintendent. “They self- she) said. representative from Texas safety, and I just think add- Youth Football Associa- ing contact to any sport tion presented to the com- only makes it more dan- Santa rosa Coffee Shop Opens mission about approving gerous. I don’t think kids February 3,4&5 a youth tackle football any younger than 10 or 11 Lupita Salinas takes over with the same great service and food as the La Feria Coffee Shop league to the city of La should be playing tackle 2012 Feria. football,” Commission TYFA is a non-profi t Victor Gonzalez said. organization out of San La Feria already has the Antonio, and there are NFL Flag Football sport leagues all around cities in program, and it has been the Valley like Harlingen, very successful with over Santa Rosa, and Rio Hon- 200 children participat- do. There are four age di- ing for the past few years. visions: 4,5, & 6 year olds There also is some over- are still fl ag football, ages lapping in scheduling for 6-7 midget division, ages the Spring TYFL season 8-9 Rookie division, and and the PONY Baseball/ ages 10-11 junior division. Softball league and the Children six years old NFL Flag Football and have the option of playing Fall TYFL season. Tickets $13 for fl ag or moving on to tackle “I don’t feel like we football. A minimum of 15 have enough kids to run advanced or kids per division is needed two leagues,” Gonzalez to be granted a charter in added. $16 at gate La Feria. Time is limited on get- “It is structured just like ting things started for the high school football,” Ro- spring season, and Ro- 19th Annual driguez said. “The team driguez said they really would be La Feria Lions, wanted to work with the Fiesta de and they would play other talent in the spring to get Shown in the photo are (l-r) Tony Flores, Vicky Ariel, Manager Lupita Salinas, Santa Rosa School 3-A schools in the area them ready for when the Board Member and Fire Chief Danny Theys, Yolanda Boyce, Santa Rosa City Alderman Anna Flores, La Feria like Rio Hondo. We have fall season comes. Dan Champion, Santa Rosa Alderman Javier Florencia, La Feria School Board Member Javier Loredo, A Community trained and certifi ed ref- “We defi nitely don’t Christina Mata, La Feria School Board President Juan Briones, Cira Ortiz, Santa Rosa Mayor Ruben Celebration erees who are brought in, want to limit choices and Ochoa and Phillip Saldivar LFN Photo by MBriones Last Saturday in and the kids get to play in opportunities for the chil- Friends and customers of Lupita Salinas joined City board, and La Feria School Board member Javier February high school stadiums.” dren of our community,” Offi cials to celebrate the Grand Opening of her new Loredo and David Bazaldua were also there to con- Downtown La Feria There is a spring sea- Mayor Steve Brewer Santa Rosa Coffee Shop on Main Street last week. gratulate Salinas on her new venture. Lupita Salinas MUSIC, ART SHOW, son and a fall season. said, “but we need to fi nd Mayor Ruben Ochoa offi cially welcomed the new has been 32 years in the restaurant business--most of CAR SHOW The spring season has six out more information on Mexican Restaurant to town. “More evidence of the it in La Feria. Vendors Register games and a bowl game whether or not this pro- growth going on in Santa Rosa.” “We’ll be open Monday through Sunday from 6:30 Now!! while the fall season has gram will benefi t our Danny Theys, Santa Rosa School Board member a.m. until 2:30 p.m serving your favorite Mexican and For info call Tabitha at 10 games. It is an open city.” and City Fire Chief; along with city Aldermen Anna American dishes,” she said, adding, “On Monday and league, so children do not The city commission Flores and Javier Florencia were present for the big Friday we’re also open from 5:00-8:00 p.m. I’ll be (956) 797-2261 have to live in La Feria to will decide at the next event. Juan Briones, President of the La Feria School happy to welcome my old friends and customers in

San Benito Harlingen Los Fresnos Brownsville Feature Story.....pg.6 399-3331 428-4100 233-4100 832-5100 Classiﬁ ed...... pg.5 FIRST COMMUNITY BANK Cricket’s Corner..pg.5

South Texas’ Most Beautiful Funeral Home, Crematory, and Perpetual Care Cemetery in one location. Guaranteed Most Affordable. Funeral Home: Cemetery: 956.797.5500 956.797.5614 Medicine Chest Pharmacy welcomes Express Scripts and TRICARE members. To transfer your prescriptions, call 797-2366 or stop by our pharmacy www.heavenlygracememorialpark.com located at 101 N. Main La Feria 26873 North White Ranch Road • La Feria, TX 78559 2 • January 18, 2012 • LA FERIA NEWS

them. We are all at different levels in our spirituality and al- though it angers you to see others not respecting the House of Neighbors in Trade – God, the middle of the service Partners in Jobs is not the time or place to vent Texas agriculture is a ships and to ensure a pro- your anger. powerhouse of produc- ductive business climate Now to those not respecting tion, supplying food and between the U.S., Mexico the House of Worship, here is clothing not only for Lone and Canada. Fittingly, the what your posture and actions Star State residents, but theme for the conference say about you: for those who live around was “Neighbors in Trade Slouching in your seat: I’m the world. In fact, agricul- – Partners in Jobs.” lazy. Looking around, not paying ture trade in Texas is big North American farm- Q. Irma, recently when I attention: I have a short atten- business and a big boost ers and ranchers continue went to Sunday service at my tion span and I’m bored. for our state’s economy. making significant con- church, I noticed that some Slouched shoulders: I have This is why I was hon- tributions to the world by young teens that should have no confidence. ored recently to host the feeding us, clothing us known better did not have re- Talking to your neighbor Tri-National Agricultural and fueling our engines. spect when the congregation during the service: I have no Accord for the first time With Canada ranked as knelt and stood during the ap- respect for others. in Texas. our largest overall trading propriate times at service. I I know you may think you This conference brought partner at $525 billion felt like shaking them to their are a strong individual do- together leaders from in total goods trade, and senses, but resisted thinking ing your own thing the way they may have had some hand- you want to do it and other’s North America to explore Mexico ranked as our icap reason for doing so. Yeah, don’t have to look at you if future opportunities for third-largest overall trad- right. Nothing wrong with they don’t like it. Well, the sad enhancing trade, protect- ing partner with $393 bil- their bodies, just their minds. news is that you are the only ing our food supply and lion in total goods trade, Hellooo! What is wrong with one that thinks that. The rest creating jobs. Delegates it’s imperative govern- our youth? Then I watched of the world interprets your Santa’s Elves Arrive from the United States, ments in our three coun- other adult couples talking actions and poise as a person On December 23, nual Toy Drive. The Club and were ec- Canada and Mexico con- tries develop and support about the previous evening’s who is weak, indifferent, self- vened for four days in policies that will propel activities during the most im- ish and insecure. Take thought local children lined Elves are part of the static to be part of this Grapevine to participate our agriculture industries portant part of the mass, the in what you are trying to con- up at the Xavier Cath- W.B. Green Spanish year’s event! consecration. I mean, why go vey through your poise and olic Church on Canal in the 20th Tri-National into the future. to church if you aren’t going to actions, especially in God‘s Street and waited anx- Accord. Providing a regulatory Throughout the confer- environment in which respect the place of worship? I house. iously for Santa’s ar- am so embarrassed to be called Irma Wolcott is an Etiquette ence, leaders from the farmers, ranchers and a Christian and to belong to Consultant certified by The Et- rival. This year Elves three North American agri-businesses can flour- that particular church commu- iquette Institute of Saint Louis. arrived to help the La countries worked on col- ish is vital for continued nity. Am I wrong in thinking E-mail at: funwithetiquette@ Feria Police Depart- laborative strategies to production. Growing the this way? What advise can aol.com or visit web: www. ment with their An- strengthen our nations’ North American agricul- you give me? funwithetiquette.com agriculture industries and ture industry not only A. Please don’t be discour- aged at other people when overall economies. We provides our citizens with attending Sunday service at discussed critical issues the safest, most abundant your church. After all, they including animal health, and most affordable food wouldn’t be there if they didn’t plant health and food supply in the world, but need to be there. Your reason safety. The meeting was also grows our economies for being there isn’t to disci- an important opportunity and creates jobs for all of pline others, it’s to listen to the to improve trade relation- our citizens. Word of God, for you, not for

(left) lots of toys (above) LFPD Chief Donato Garcia instructs the elves (below) The W.B. Green Spanish Club Elves surround Santa before the event A Robert Trent Jones, Sr. Design Happy New Year! Winter Texans Montly Membership Save$$$$ on consecutive months 5 Rounds VIP card - All major lines of Golf Clubs by Ping-Callaway- Taylormad-Titleist-Nike at Terrific Prices Golf Lessons - PGA Instructors Open to Public

Serving All of Western Cameron County mondays A Community Newspaper Since 1923 How to reach us: 9 AM - 4 PM – Monday-Friday 102 S. Main St., La Feria, TX. P. O. Box 999 • La Feria, Texas 78559 Tel.: (956) 797-9920 wednesdays “Poderoso Caballero Fax: (956) 797-9921 es don Dinero” email: [email protected] For advertising call William R. Keltner, Advertising Consultant “Money talks” 797-9920 HOW TO SUBSCRIBE: 1 year subscription delivered by U.S. Postal Contribuido por: Ronni Gordon Service…$27.95 or can be purchased at several convenient locations thursdays throughout the cities of La Feria, Santa Rosa, Santa Maria & Blue tuesdays Town for 50¢. The La Feria News is mailed and delivered Monday, January16, 2012 and published weekly by Wright Ventures, Inc., President Donald R. Wright, Secretary Mary Elizabeth Wright. Periodical Postage Rates paid at La Feria, TX., Post Office. Advertising deadline is noon Thursday at the office at 102 S. Main St., La Feria, TX 78559. (POSTMASTER send address changes to La Feria, P.O. Box 999, La Feria, TX 78559.) 1st & 3rd Tuesday, 6:30pm at Don Beto’s 109 N. Main La Feria

January 24, 2012 6:30 PM 2012 City Commission Meeting Commission Meeting Room at 115 E. Commercial Avenue La Feria, TX. 956-428-3555 January 18, 2012 • LA FERIA NEWS • 3 La Feria news TEEn TOPICS Writer Honored The young lady who They both are has been writing the associated with popular TEEN TOPICS hospitals in column in LA FERIA Harlingen. NEWS and our associ- Her hard ate newspapers, LOS work was FRESNOS NEWS and manifest when By Pastor Samuel Thomas 5k / 10K Walk / run To Be Held RIO HONDO NEWS, she achieved First Baptist Church, La Feria was recently honored for a perfect SAT Jan. 28 In Valley her academic achieve- score. For Encouragement for the Week To Beneﬁ t Disabled Children ments. college upon Fans of her column graduation, she Think about this: “South Texas Sizzler” event sponsored know her as Anjali is looking into “The bridge you burn now may be the one by Valley Baptist Health System Bhatla. She has just Rice Universi- you later have to cross.” recently been honored ty, Stanford or A 5-kilometer and 10-kilometer walk / run, which by being named to the the University will be held in the Valley Saturday morning, Jan. 28, National Honor Society of Pennsylva- ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• will benefi t disabled and special-needs children in and the Student Coun- nia. “If possible, so far as it depends on you, South Texas. cil. Anjali is a Junior Even with all be at peace with all men..” The “South Texas Sizzler” event will kickoff at at the Science Academy her studies, she Anjali Bhatla 7:30 a.m. Jan 28 at the Harlingen Soccer Complex, of South Texas where still has time to 4515 E. Harrison (just east of Ed Carey Drive) in she has been taking write her weekly col- ics. You can leave any Romans 12:18 Harlingen, with a “Little Sizzle” one-mile fun run. advanced college level umn. She really likes suggested topics to her The big event, the 5K / 10K race, will start at 8 courses in preparation to write about subjects attention at www.lafe- CAREGIVER SUPPORT of interest to her teen- ria [email protected]. a.m. for her life-long goal of MEETING Registration for the race is available online at being a doctor like her age readership. Angali La Feria News is www.ValleyBaptist.net, or at www.Active.com. Par- parents. Her parents would enjoy receiving proud to have contribu- ticipants can also register at an “Exhibitor’s Expo” are Dr. Brajesh Bhatla suggestions from her tors of this caliber on Tuesday, Jan. 24 that will take place on Friday, Jan. 27 from 4 p.m. and Dr. Anshu Bhatla. readers on future top- our writing staff. . 2-3 pm to 6 p.m. in the East Tower Lobby at Valley Baptist First United Methodist Church Medical Center-Harlingen. Same-day registration La Feria will be held Saturday morning between 6:30 a.m. and Letters To The Editor 7:30 a.m. at the Harlingen Soccer Complex. Fellowship Hall The event -- which is expected to attract hun- Dear Editor: frosters and wipers work changing the oil at recom- dreds of Valley runners and walkers -- will benefi t Free and open to anyone: caregivers, those The thought of a break- properly. Consider win- mended intervals as dirty the Miracle Kids of South Texas, which has been supporting a caregiver, friend, family member, etc. down, an engine not start- ter wiper blades and use oil can spell trouble in providing free sports activities for disabled and The purpose of this support group is to provide ing or otherwise being cold weather washer fl uid. winter. Consider changing special-needs children ages 5 to 15 in the Valley for opportunity to discuss issues and interact with the stranded is scary as it is, Typically, wiper blades to “winter weight” oil if the past nine years. other members in attendance to problem solve and but those things happening should be replaced every you live in a cold climate. All participants in the “South Texas Sizzler” will encourage each other! in freezing winter weather six months. Check the fuel, air and receive a fi nisher’s medal, with T-shirts guaranteed For more information, please contact: add another level of fear. · If you’re due for a transmission fi lters at the to the fi rst 500 registrants. Awards will be given for So, when the weather out- tune-up, have it done be- same time. Candy Wiley, RN, Wesley Nurse fi rst, second and third place in various age brackets, side is frightful, a little fore winter sets in. Winter Motorists should keep at 956-797-5436 ranging from 14 years and under to 70 years and advance preparation can magnifi es existing prob- the gas tank at least half older. make winter driving more lems such as pings, hard full at all times to decrease Trophies will be awarded for “overall male / delightful. An investment starts, sluggish perfor- the chances of moisture obituaries female” and “Masters male / female” (50 years and of an hour or so to have mance or rough idling. forming in the gas lines older). A trophy will also be presented to the public your vehicle checked · Check the tire tread and possibly freezing. or private school with the most participants. A prize Marcelina A. Rojas held 11:00am-9:00pm can help you avoid being depth and tire pressure. Drivers should also check basket will be awarded to the team (5 participants or 87 of Santa Rosa, TX Wednesday, January stranded in severe winter If snow and ice are a the tire pressure of the more) with the most creative t-shirt design. passed away Tuesday, 4, 2012 in the Rudy weather: problem in your area, spare in the trunk and The “South Texas Sizzler” is sponsored by Valley January 2, 2012. She Garza Funeral Home · Check the battery and consider special tires de- stock an emergency kit Baptist Health System, Border Mobility, Rio Grande is preceded in deah by Chapel in La Feria charging system for opti- signed to grip slick roads. with an ice scraper and Orthopedic Center, the City of Harlingen, Harlingen her husband Bonifa- with a prayer service at mum performance. Cold During winter, tire pres- snowbrush, jumper ca- Area Teacher’s Credit Union, Watermill Express, weather is hard on bat- sure should be checked bles, flashlight, flares, cio Rojas. She is sur- 7:00pm. Chapel servic- HEB, Su Clinica Familiar, Rio Grande Oral and teries. weekly. blanket, extra clothes, vived by her children es will be held 10;00am Maxillofacial Surgery, Weslaco Family Care Center · Clean, fl ush and put · Check the brakes. The candles/matches, bottled Domingo Rojas, Er- Thursday, January 5, & Occupational Medicine Clinic, and Rodeo Dental new antifreeze in the cool- braking system is the ve- water, dry food snacks nesto Rojas, Tito Rojas, 2012 in the Rudy Garza & Orthodontics. For more information, contact Val- ing system. As a general hicle’s most important and needed medication. ley Baptist Legacy Foundation at 956-389-4307 or by Nestor Rojas, Dominga Funeral Home Chapel rule of thumb, this should safety component. For more helpful in- e-mail at [email protected]. Rojas and Cirila Ro- in La Feria with burial be done every two years. · Inspect the exhaust formation, visit www. jas; 12 grandchildren; to follow in the Gua- · Make sure heaters, de- system for carbon mon- carcare.org and check out 11 great grandchil- dalupe Cemetery in oxide leaks, which can the free digital Car Care dren. Visitation will be Sebastian, TX. be especially dangerous Guide. during cold weather driv- Sincerely, ing when windows are Rich White closed. Executive Director · Check to see that ex- Car Care Council terior and interior lights 7101 Wisconsin Ave work and headlights are Bethesda, MD 2 properly aimed. 0814-3415 · Be diligent about 301-654-6664

First United Methodist Church of Christ First Baptist Church of St. Francis Xavier Church Minister Gene Head, 797- La Feria Catholic Church CENTRAL PARK Pastor Harold Dailey, 956- 9890, 912 N. Parker Rd., La Pastor: Samuel W. Thomas, Fr. Gabriel I. Ezeh, 797- Quick Lube 797-1393, 331 S. Main Feria, Wednesday 6pm Bible 797-1214, Magnolia & 2666, offi ce 502 S. Canal, St., La Feria, Sunday Study, Sunday 9:30am Bible Main St., La Feria, Tx, church 500 South Canal Let Us Help You Protect Your School 10am, Traditional Study, 10:30am Service, Wednesday 7pm Evening St., La Feria, Saturday Mass Car’s Engine Worship Service 9am, 6pm Evening Service Los Bible Study & Prayer Ser- 5:30pm, Sunday Mass 8am All Year Long Contemporary Worship Domingos: 12:00 Medio Dia vice, Sunday 9:45am Sun- Spanish, 10am English, Service 11am, UM Youth y 7:00pm Los Jueves: 7:00 day School, 11am Morning 11:30pm English. Come See Us! 5pm. pm Estudio De Biblia Worship Service, 6 pm Evening Worship Service. Tues. thru Fri. 9:00 - 4:00 International Worship Come See Faith Church of Christian Christ In Our Midst Center St. Albans & Missionary Alliance Missionary Church Bishop Ronaldo Ortiz, Episcopal Church Betsy, & Mirna Church Pastor: Rev. Daniel Carriza- 956-797-1204, 116 W. Reverend Scott Brown Stylist Pastor Oscar Loredo, 797- lez, 956-200-4504, 1 mile Seventh St., La Feria, Ser- 956-428-2305, 1417 E. 1739, 125 W. First St., La N. of FM 506, La Feria, Spa •Clipper Cuts/Style Cuts vices Sunday (English) Austin, Harlingen,TX Feria,Tx, Bilingual Ministry Sunday School - 9:45 a.m., Hours: 9:30am, Domingo (Es- Holy Communion 8am, Wax • Color • Hi-Lites Sunday 10am Sunday School, Sunday Worship - 11:00 M-F 8:30 am - 5:30 pm Sat. 8:30 am - 2:30 pm panol) 11am, Miercoles Sunday School 9:15, Holy 11am Worship, Wednesday a.m., Wednesday Service - Closed Sundays Appts. & Walk-Ins Welcome 7pm Interdenomina- Eucharist 10:30am. tional Worship Extreme 7 pm Bible Study, Friday 7 7:00 p.m., Monday Prayer 501 W. Expressway 83 • Harlingen, Texas 122B W. Oleander St. Youth Sat. 6 pm pm Prayer. Hope in the Word - 7:00 p.m. (956) 428-8000 La Feria • 956-797-4036 Santa Rosa United Church First First Baptist Church of Methodist Church Pastors Jose & Bertha Bel- Presbyterian Church Santa Rosa 408 Main Street mares, 797-3621, 28354 797-2712, Pastor Harold Parker, 956- (Hwy. 107/506) S. Bixby Rd., La Feria, 208 West Central Ave, 636-1603, 118 Jesus R. Santa Rosa, across from TX, Services Friday 6pm, La Feria,TX, Cruz, Santa Rosa, Tx, Sun- High School Sunday Sunday 10am. All services Sunday Services 9am the day Services 9:30am Bible Coffee and Fellowship are Bilingual, English & Announces Study, 10:30am Morning 9:30 AM Worship 10:00 Spanish. Cowboy Church of the Worship, 7pm Wednesday AM (Communion fi rst PRIMERA IGLESIA Valley neighborhood Evening Worship. Sunday of the month) BAUTISTA 11235 Swift Ln. Santa New Expanded Hours Wednesday Prayer Service Rosa, Tex. Service at Apostolic Faith 956-797-1740, 519 N. Main, 11:00am Sunday Tabernacle 9:00 AM La Feria, Bilingual Services: doc or Mon. - Thurs. 8am - 6pm Pastor Ramon Zarate, 357- Pastor: Carole Lahti Sunday 9:45am Sunday 6:30pm pm Monday + 6384, 621 South Main, (956) 279-3407 School, 10:45am Worship 956-975-6144 Fri. 8am - 5pm La Feria. Sunday School Casa de Esperanza Service, 5:00pm WMU, www.westernoutreach.org 10am Sunday Worship Apostolic Church 6:00 pm Evening Worship 4pm, Wed. Evening 7:30pm. All services are 416 W. Spruce La Feria Service, Sat 8am - 12pm bilingual. 965-639-4301 Bilingual Iglesia Generacion Services Sunday at 1:00pm En Conquista Iglesia Oracion en Su Daniel Martinez - Pastor Pastor Samuel y Magda Presencia Cervantes, Phone (956) We are your St. Mary’s Catholic Missionary Church,Inc. 536-2215, 2803 W. Exp. Church Pastors Frank & Janie Gon- 83 Suite A. La Feria, Tx. FR. Edouard Atangana, zalez 797-0044, 4th Street, 956-636-1211, 101 San An- 78559. Sunday Service Doctors for all La Feria,TX Sunday 10am tonio Ave., Santa Rosa,TX, 10am Bible Study, 11am & 6pm, Monday 7 pm Saturday Mass 5pm Bilin- Worship Service, 7pm Prayer Service, Wednesday gual, Sunday Mass 8am Wednesday Family Ser- 7 pm, Friday 7 pm. Spanish, 10am English. vice. members of the Family (L-R) Mario A. Sanchez D.O. (Certifi ed in Family Practice), Quality Linens & Uniforms Queen City Services Quality Linens & Uniform Rental 1-888-955-0666 956-565-0666 Fax:956-565-6865 Joe G. Sanchez - P.A.-C, Eleazar Rodriguez - P.A. -C, Gabriela Almeida - P.A. -C 546 South Illinois ♦ Mercedes, Texas 78570 106 N. Main St La Feria • 797-2002 4 • January 18, 2012 • LA FERIA NEWS La Feria vs

photos by D.Briones Rio Hondo

A Lion basketball player makes his way around a Gilbert Jimenez goes up over defenders for a Nick Chapa drives the ball toward the basket. Bobcat defender. layup.

A large crowd was on hand for the Lions basketball game Friday night. La Feria News Ofﬁ cial Photographer

KUSTOMSPORTZ Log on to get your local sports photo Kustomsportz.ifp3.com

Chris Alejandro shows his ball handling skills against the Bobcats. Gold Stars Tryouts!! If any girls in the 8th-11th grade would like to try-out for the 2012-2013 Gold Stars Drill Team, sign-ups will be on January 23rd-27th. W.B. Green & La Feria High School will both have sign-up folders in the main offi ce. There will be an informational meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 24 @ the W.B. Green library for 8th graders at 4 p.m. There will be an informational meeting on Wednesday, Jan. 25 @ LFHS cafeteria for 9th-11th graders at 4 p.m. The Gold Stars Director will go over the tryout requirements and the tryout process at the informational meeting. Parents do not have to attend the informational meeting, but are welcomed to if they wish. A mandatory parent meeting will take place on February 6th. BILL BUNTON AUTO SUPPLY & MACHINE SHOP. INC JOHN FTACEK GO GO SUPPORTS LIONS LIONS GO! GO! The Mighty La Feria Lions 1101 W. Second Bus. 83 Wally and Brian Bunton Mercedes, Tx 78570 (956) 565-2473 Su Clinica Familiar Go Team Go WE SUPPORT THE MIGHTY LIONS AND LIONETTES ! Brianna Atkinson Brittany Ruiz Visit our New Location in Santa Rosa 797-2366 956-636-2676 MAIN STREET LA FERIA TEXAS Join HATCU Today! Harlingen Area Teachers’ Credit Union M V E C (956) 423-5792 Magic Valley Electric Co-op www.hatcu.coop Competitive Loan Rates Access to Real People Financial Partnership Community Involvement CLAW YOUR WAY TO VICTORY! Decision made Locally THE MIGHTY LIONS Not Just for Teachers Anymore! This credit union is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration January 18, 2012 • LA FERIA NEWS • 5

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CASA S. Martinez EXPrESS InCOME TaX DE Realty Get your taX Land Homes reFund Fast FIESTAS Let us maXImIZe your 2011 InCome taX return AFFORDABLE Pablo Vargas, tax advisor ELEGANCE ! 1/8 Mi. N. Beddoes Rd. Free estimates e-Filing Weddings, Quinceaneras, Box 1291 self employment refund Corporate Functions, etc. La Feria, TX 78559 call 797-1523 1201 W. Tyler • Harlingen (956)797-1341 428-1740 / 454-6730 www.casadeﬁ estas.com (Corner of W. Tyler & South K) American Legion Post 439 Available for OrDInanCE 2011-24 Quinceañeras, Weddings, Parties and other social or business occasions AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY 797-3701 Open To The Public OF LA FERIA, TEXAS AMENDING 219 E. Commercial La Feria CHAPTER 14, EXHIBIT A, OF THE LA FERIA CODE OF ORDINANCES (THE ZONING ORDINANCE) TO AMEND THE BOUNDARIES OF THE R3 RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT AND THE C2 GENERAL COMMERCIAL DISTRICT ON THE OFFICIAL ZONING MAP OF THE CITY OF LA FERIA, AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE

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My old Precinct 7 has been combined into Precinct 5, Place 3 which encompass- es the city of Harlingen, Palm Valley Township, City of Combes, Los In- dios and Santa Rosa.” The judge will still be administering justice for Precinct 5 from his La Feria office. Gonzales added: “I greet the new challenge with open arms. I accepted the challenge of judgeship in 2005, and A Day in Traffi c Court I will be as dedicated to Toxicology investigation was to be assigned to the liked a young La Feria na- my new constituents in or full-autopsy by a local DPS Criminal and Special tive named Raquel. This the new, combined Pre- hospital pathologist to Crime Service Investiga- contact blossomed into a cinct 5 as I have been to determine the cause.” tion Division.. He relates very happy marriage in Precinct 7.” Changing the subject, that he was also assigned due time. Judge Gonzales Judge Gonzales said the judge relates that he to the Governor’s Protec- and his wife live in La his is primarily a traffi c was born and raised in tion Detail. It was in that Feria. office and small claims Kennedy, Texas, but smiles role that he traveled with Finalizing our “Day court. “We also handle when he says, “I got here candidate George Bush in Court,” Judge Gonza- disputes between tenants as soon as I could.” during his presidential les said, “I believe that and landlords. This court Judge Gonzales retired campaign throughout the experience counts, and I also issues Warrants of Ar- as a Law Enforcement of- United States. Oh, yes, believe my law enforce- rest and Search Warrants fi cer after 32 years before did we mention that he is ment experience qualifi es for any law enforcement becoming a Justice of the a U.S. Army Veteran hav- me to be able to administer agency,” Peace in La Feria. For ing served a tour of duty justice fairly and maturely Judge Adam Gonzales administers justice in La Feria Also, since Cameron 7 of those years, he was in Vietnam. in the judicial system.“ A full courtroom greet- their three options in his on police radar. A few County has no staff Medi- a Patrol Offi cer with the He fi rst came to La Feria So, if you get hauled ed Bailiff Benito de la J.P. Court. They could be: qualifi ed for a Safe Driv- cal Examiner Officer or Houston Police Depart- in 1988 on a promotion into court in La Feria, Cruz when he gave the (1) plead guilty as charged, ing School course. One designated Coroner, the ment. He then qualifi ed by the Texas Department and get to meet the judge, order: “All Rise“. Judge (2) plead not guilty, in hand-cuffed offender was duty of determining the to be a Patrol Offi cer with of Public Safety. He liked you’ll know now to whom Adam Gonzales next took which case the prosecu- remanded into custody to “Cause of Death” falls to the Texas Department of what he saw and decided you are speaking. his position on the bench tion would be passed on the Cameron County Jail the J.P. Court. “Some- Public Service Traffi c Di- to make La Feria his future to handle the cases on the to a higher court, (3) enter with a Constable standing times we have to order a vision. His next move home. He also saw and docket, and the wheels of the plea of Nolo Conten- by his side. Justice began to turn in dere, which allows the ac- In his chambers, the his court. cused to accept the charge judge was asked how the One-by-one the accused without admitting guilt. Justice of Peace courts approached the judge to The judge would handle fit into the total justice learn their fate before the those cases also. system: “Most of our law.. He listed the charges LA FERIA NEWS cases are Class C mis- against them. On this noted that each accused demeanors, non-jailable particular day in court, was treated with respect offenses,” he responded, they ranged from simple, and dignity when asked: “I see people sent here first-time speeding and “How do you plead”? by the Constable’s offi ce, other driving citations to Most were ordered to The Sheriff’s Department, handling the transfer of pay fi nes and court costs, Texas Department of Pub- an incarcerated county others were sentenced to lic Safety, TABC, Parks criminal for the Cameron community service. Most and Wild Life Offi cers and County Constable’s of- were there for no driver’s Health and Safety Code fi ce. license, no insurance, no Offi cers. The judge read them inspection sticker….or The position of Justice their rights and explained simply, caught speeding of the Peace Judge is an

truck accessories Since 1984 • side steps Accused make their pleas in Judge Gonzales’ J.P. Court • Bed Covers • Grill Guards La Feria • Keyless entry systems O D PROUD PRINTING • starter Kills Vision Center SILK SCREENING, EMBROIDERY & SPORTS EQUIPMENT Celina Villanueva, OD • Protect your Investment www.proudprintingshop.com 116 N. Main St. yOur OnE STOP PrInTInG nEEDS Optical Open Dennis R.Cantu Charlie Prado auto security system Monday - Thursday 956.624.3323 956.536.3228 9am - 5pm Janette Fox 956.367.3336 956-428-4383 (956)797-2020 605 W. Bus. Highway 83, Suite A La Feria Tx, 1426 n. 77 sunshine strip harlingen, tx 78550 Medicare , Medicaid, Eyetopia Accepted [email protected] Septic Services by R&R Advertising slots available Service You Can Trust by in the following MENUS: Don Beto’s - Harlingen Rene &Israel Taguilas Don Beto’s - La Feria Las Cazuelas-Harlingen El Gallito-San Benito (956) 226-9468 Cell Mi Tierra-San Benito (956) 797-0405 Office www.rgvmenus.biz (956) 536-5711 Manufacturing Septic Tanks, Lids, Grease Traps, & Blocks /Bases Maintenance, Lid Replacement & Installations 35 years experience in the Septic Tank Business Centrally Located in La Feria, on Tio Cano Rd (Formerly Taguilas Septic Tanks)

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The La Feria ISD board 2012 or you may contact administered in the fall in Energy Rebates for General Fund Interest in heard the Superintendent our Business Office at of 2011. The benchmark a total of $82,927. The September is $251 Inter- Celebration of our La 956-797-8305. was administered to stu- Board will consider a est for an Investment of Feria High School FFA The La Feria ISD dents in K-11th grade in recommendation at the $3,297,196; $294 Interest Chapter Conducting Team board, under information November in the subject February/March regular in July for an Investment of $307,929. If you need can be implemented to for Placing First in district items, received a report areas of reading/English Board meeting from the of $3,630,944; and $455 additional information augment these new state Competition and for earn- on Superintendent Perfor- language arts, writing, Business and Operations Interest in August for an you may call Mr. Ramon rules and regulations. ing the right to advance to mance Goal: for Strategy math, science, and social departments. Investment of $5,823,795. Mendoza at 797-8305. The La Feria ISD board Area X Competition. 5, Activity 1 – District studies. If you have any The La Feria ISD board Next, the District I&S in The La Feria ISD board approved, under items to The La Feria ISD board Staff Development. The questions you may con- approved, under consent Lone Star is at $25 Inter- approved, under consent consider and possible heard the Superintendent report listed the ongoing tact our Curriculum and agenda, the Monthly Tax est in September for an agenda, the Consultant action, the approval for Celebration of our La 2011-2012 staff develop- Instruction Department Report for November 30, Investment of $259,408; services for the School moving March 12 Meet- Feria High School FFA ment that meet the needs at 956-797-8340. 2010, continuing to show $24 Interest in October for Nutrition Program. The ing to alternate date due School Public Relations of teachers in order to The La Feria ISD board, tax collections for the an Investment of $59,432; Food Service Director to Spring Break taking Team for Placing Second prepare them for the up- under information items, year ahead of last year and $48 Interest in No- and Operations Executive place the same week. at the Tip-O-Tex District coming STAAR state as- received a report for Sch- at 93.18% for 2010-2011 vember for an Investment Director recommended The Board discussed in district Competition sessment and EOC-End neider electric and Trane school year. The Decem- of $259,456. Next, the the contracting of con- and approved moving and the right to advance to Of Course Test. The Air Conditioning Upgrade ber Tax Collection Rate is District 2008 Bond Pro- sultant services to assist the March regular Board Area X Competition. Staff Development con- Proposals. Both compa- currently at 68.80% ahead ceeds are at $82 Interest in for the last fi ve months of meeting to Monday, The La Feria ISD board sists of: Training on the nies presented initial pro- of last year in November September for an Invest- operations. The District March 5, 2012. heard the Superintendent upcoming STAAR/EOC posals to upgrade our old 2010 at 66.44%. For ment of $862,414; $79 Nutrition Department did The La Feria ISD Celebration of our La Assessments; Identifying Air Conditioning systems any additional informa- Interest in October for an not replace the Assistant board, after closed ses- Feria High School FFA the Depth of Knowledge in our district. Funds are tion please contact our Investment of $862,493; Director thus saving the sion and reconvening in Farms Skills Team for of questions; Rigor in the available through interest Business Director at 797- and $81 Interest in No- district $60,000 for the Open Session, made and Placing Second in district Classroom; Question- and surplus funds from 8305. vember for an Investment year. The cost of the approved motions for Competition and for earn- ing Strategies; Develop- our 2008 bonds which The La Feria ISD board of $862,574. Next, the consulting services will the following items as ing the right to advance to ing questions at a higher can only be used in capital approved, under consent District 2005 Bond Pro- be $10,000 for the five discussed in closed ses- Area X Competition. level; and Higher Order and construction projects. agenda, the Quarterly ceeds are at $80 Interest in months. sion: Extend a One Year The La Feria ISD board, Thinking Skills. If you Our district is trying to Investment Report for September for an Invest- The La Feria ISD board Probationary Contract under information items, have any questions you maximize our funds to district funds. The district ment of $821,108; $75 approved, under con- for GEAR UP Facilita- received a report on Su- may contact our Cur- replace as many old A/C has $7,921,784.49 invest- Interest in October for an sent agenda, the Texas tor Grant position to fi ll perintendent Performance riculum and Instruction units and save dollars in ed at Lone star Investment Investment of $821,183; Association of School vacancy. This position Goal: for Strategy 1, Ac- Department at 956-797- energy cost. In addition Pool as of 11/20/2011. and $67 Interest in No- Boards (TASB) Update is within campus and tivity 1 – Budget Finance. 8340. the proposals also include Our district has earned vember for an Investment 92. This TASB Update department budgets and The Business Manager The La Feria ISD motion sensors to turn off interest revenue totaling of $668,031. Finally the 92 provides our school staffi ng formulas. In ad- provided a report of our board, under informa- lights and software pro- $1,647 for the quarter. District Food Service in district and our board dition the Board also District Budget to our tion items, received a gram to turn off computers The District Rate of Re- Lone Star is at $29 Interest with direction to follow noted the Administration School Board on a per report on First Six weeks which will save additional turn on Lone Star Invest- in September for an In- and implement all new had accepted one resig- campus basis. You may Benchmark Results. The dollars to our district. ment Pool for Septem- vestment of $307,872; $28 state rules and regula- nation for PEIMS Coor- view the budget for each report provided to the Schneider Electric esti- ber is 0.17%, October is Interest in October for an tions that impact us. In dinator contingent upon campus on District Web- board a review of the mated that the Cost Sav- 0.20% and for November Investment of $307,900; addition, this provides position being fi lled and site under Board Book data collected and ana- ings to our District is up is 0.23%. In addition, and $29 Interest in No- our board with options to approved by our Board Agenda for January 9, lyzed from benchmarks to $65,421 plus $17,500 the District Lone Star vember for an Investment adopt local policies that of Trustees. Harlingen Fiber art Competition and Exhibit St. alban’s antique Show Women of St. Al- show features dealers grinding, and much D'Arte Centre, 115 Jackson, ban’s Episcopal Church from all across the more. Harlingen, is hosting a Fiber Arts Antique Show Set To country who bring a The Women of St. show of local artists. The items on exhibit will be Open wide variety of quality Alban’s will be serv- judged with First Place receiving The 41st Antique antiques. There will ing home cooked food $100. Entry deadline: Show and Sale will be be thirty-four booths all three days as well Jan. 14. For information and held January 20 through filled with county, as selling all types of entry form: www.harlingenart- January 22 at the Casa English and Victo- cakes and cookies. An forum.com. This exhibit is in de Amistad in Harlin- rian furniture, antique admission ticket good connection with Shop Hop Har- gen. The Show will be and estate jewelry, all for admittance all lingen and San Benito, www. open from 10 a.m. to 6 types of glass, crystal, three days is $ 5. Pro- shophopharlingenandsanbenito. p.m. on Friday and Sat- linens, china, antique ceeds from the Show com, a fundraiser for Loaves and urday and from Noon to clocks, silver, silver are used to fund chari- Fishes of the RGV. Also, contact: 956-425-4030 or 956-202-3778 5 p.m. on Sunday. repair and replating, table projects during This long running jewelry repair, glass the year.

OFFICE OF THE TAX ASSESSOR-COLLECTOR CAMERON COUNTY, TEXAS TONY YZAGUIRRE, JR.

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All taxpayers are responsible for their property taxes, even if they do not receive a tax statement in accordance with Texas Property Tax code Sec. 31.01 (g). Property owners who cannot pay their taxes in full can enter a payment agreement. You may contact any of the following offices by phone for tax information: Brownsville Main Office (956)544-0800, San Benito Tax Office (956)361-8232, Harlingen Tax Office (956)427-8013.

La Feria residents will now see the City of La Feria taxes included in the Cameron County Tax Statements. Through consolidation residents will now be able to pay LFISD taxes at any of our nine (9) branch offices countywide.

Drop-off boxes conveniently accessible 24/7 for tax payments paid by check or money orders only may be dropped off at the Brownsville Main Office on East Van Buren between East 10th Street and 8th Street in Brownsville, or in the Port Isabel Branch Office at 505 Highway 100.

For your convenience you may view and pay your property taxes 24/7 online at: www.cameroncountytax.org AVOID WAITING IN LINE BY PAYING ON-LINE.

OFFICES COUNTWIDE TO BETTER SERVE YOU! 8 • January 18, 2012 • LA FERIA NEWS

9 - Brittany Garza 8 - Vincent Vento Jr. 7 - Alejandra Teran 6 - Eleazar Vela 5 - Marissa Vasquez 4 - Bianca Bruno 3 - Francisco Rosales La Feria High School W. B. Green Jr. High W . B. Green Jr. High Noemi Dominguez Elementary Noemi Dominguez Elementary C.E. Vail Elementary C.E. Vail Elementary Students of the Month January 2012 Brought to you by: 10 -Andres Galarza 11 -Alecxia Ceballos 1 - Myles Paredes 2 - Chistopher Genaway La Feria High School La Feria High School D. Sanchez Elementary D. Sanchez Elementary

“A Beautiful Smile Is Your Best Friend” 12 - Alexandria Camacho Jaime Quintanilla Pre-K - Mia Velez Kinder - Emily Avila La Feria High School La Feria Academy 428-5322 Sam Houston Elementary Sam Houston Elementary 1214 Dixieland rd., Suite #4, Harlingen, TX District Preparing For Board recognizes FFa Students upcoming assessments At the school board dents missed passing by in house. If most of Presentations from meeting Monday (Janu- two questions, and 19 the students from one Trane and Schneider ary 9th) Cynthia Tor- students missed passing class answered a ques- Electric Company on res presented an update by three questions. tions correctly that stu- upgrade proposals to on the First Six Weeks “With frequent test- dents from other classes the old air conditioning benchmark results for ing, we would have missed, we want to see systems within the dis- the district. The bench- noticed all along way what that teacher is do- trict. Both companies mark was administered which kids we should ing and see if we can also proposed upgrades to students K-11th grade have worked with and implement that strategy to lighting fi xtures, in- in the areas of Reading/ needed intervention,” throughout the district stalling occupancy sen- language arts, writing, Dr. Mimi Vidaurri said so all the students can sors, and future ideas math, science, and social that night. be successful,” Vidaurri to save money on en- studies. The district is also stated. ergy and use the facili- The goal of collecting preparing teachers with 9th graders need to ties to the best of their all this data was to help their staff development. pass the new STAAR capabilities. The board align curriculum with the The staff developments test to graduate, and by will award the proposal The School Board Trustees recognized the La Feria High School FFA Chapter appropriate level of diffi - include training on the evaluating the assess- to the company that Conducting Team for placing fi rst in District Competition and advancing to Area culty for each grade lev- upcoming STAAR/End ments and monitoring provides the most cost X competition. The team has placed fi rst for the last fi ve years in a row. The el. One problem the dis- of Course Assessments, how teachers are pre- effi cient and effect pro- team includes Dustin Trevino, Vattell Cooke, Tiana Barco, Lauren Rodriguez, trict has uncovered was identifying depth of paring for it, the district posal for the district at Aaron Martinez, Briar Holt, and Erasmo Villarreal. that students were being knowledge questions, believes all students can the next school board tested over material they questioning strategies, be successful on the meeting. haven’t covered yet. rigor in the classroom, STAAR and all End of The board has ap- Regarding last year’s developing questions at Course Exams. proved to move the reg- test, La Feria High higher level, and higher “We become extreme- ular school board meet- School was 14 students order thinking skills. ly passionate about what ing scheduled for March away from being Aca- “Trainings are done we’re doing because we 12th to March 5th due to demically Acceptable. here. We have teachers want to help these stu- Spring Break, and min- 17 students in grades training teachers, and dents succeed,” Torres utes from the December 9-11 missed passing by we are really using all said. 12th meeting were also one question, 19 stu- the resources we have The board also heard approved.

The La Feria High School FFA Public Relations team was recognized before the school board for placing second at the Tip-O-Tex District LDE’s and advanced to Area X Contest in Kingsville. From left to right: FFA Advisor Robert Salazar, Jennifer Duran, Bianca Munoz, and Selina Cano with School Board President Juan Briones.

The La Feria FFA Farm Skills Team placed second in the Tip-O-Tex District competition and earned the right to advance to Area X Competition. The team of Jorge Pina, Michael Kalnas, and Gilbert Fonseca demonstrated how to properly set up an electric fence

Friday & Saturday • 10am - 6pm Sunday - Noon to 5pm $5.00 Admission

Country, English & Victorian Furniture, Linens, Old Tools, Toys, Postcards, Paper, Clothing, Dolls, Victorian Accessories, Antique & Estate Jewelry, Reference Books, Art Glass, Cut Glass, Depression Glass, Antique Stained Glass, Cambridge, Fostoria, Heisey, Royal Doulton, Flow Blue and much, much more. Glass Grinding, Silver Repair/Replating, Jewelry Repair Matching Services for Sterling, Silverplate January 18, 2012 • LA FERIA NEWS • 9 LFHS Gold Stars Sparkle at Alamo Bowl Performance On December 29th, the performance are amongst tween them. The Gold pecially want to thank my Gold Stars Drill Team some of the best in the Stars danced to “Ain’t no Gold Stars’ parents for performed at the 2011 United States. The head Mountain High Enough” their continuous support Valero Alamo Bowl choreographer has been a and “Don’t Stop Be- and endless help. Game in San Antonio. dance and cheer director lievin’”. The theme for --- I would also like The Gold Stars ar- for many years now, also the halftime show was to thank LFHS admin- rived in San Antonio on in charge of Georgia All- a tribute to the soldiers. istration and the La Fe- December 27th in order to Stars. Another choreog- At halftime, each dance ria ISD school board for prepare for the big event. rapher is a back-up danc- team was introduced and their encouragement and They rehearsed for 15 er for country music star, their names were in the support. Also, special hours total within the 3 Taylor Swift. The other football program. thanks to our wonderful days that they were there. choreographer is a dancer Mrs. Scarlet Sanchez sponsors!” Aleiah Garza, There were a total of 15 in Cirque de Soleil. We (Gold Stars director) Gold Stars Captain, says, dance and cheer teams felt very fortunate to have states, “When I heard “My favorite part of this from Texas, Kansas, and such people teaching us. them announce ‘La Feria trip was stepping foot on Oklahoma. The teams that played High School Dance Team’ that field with my fellow The Gold Stars also in the Alamo Bowl Game at halftime, I got chills. Gold Stars. Performing had the privilege of be- were the Baylor Bears It was so exciting to see at the Alamo Bowl was ing selected to perform and the Washington Hus- my girls down there on an amazing experience in the front 2 rows of the kies. Both of the college the field. I had a young that none of us will ever bands played the music team this year and they entire group! Choreog- forget!” raphers in charge of the for the halftime show, as surpassed all my expec- the dancers danced be- tations. This is the Gold Stars’ fourth bowl game that we’ve performed at. I’m grateful for such hard-working and dis- ciplined young ladies. This trip was definitely a memorable one for me and for all my girls. I es-

Aleiah Garza, captain, getting interviewed

The Gold Stars ready to take the field at the Alamodome

Thomas Tovar Earns UT Degree AUSTIN, Texas — Thomas Tovar, son of Albert and Trina Tovar of La Feria, has earned a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics from The University of Texas at Austin. Tovar graduated from La Feria High School in 2007. The University of Texas at Austin is Texas' premier public research university, home to more than 50,000 students, 2,700 faculty and 19,000 staff members. A few of the girls saw one of the Washington football players (#92) at the mall. The Gold Stars at rehearsal SHOP HOP HARLINGEN & SAN BENITO January 26-28

Invite a friend! and mark your calendar! Har- year's Grand Prize is accommodations at South lingen and San Benito local small businesses Padre Island. For more information: www. have opened their doors for a 3-day event with shophopharlingenandsanbenito.com. a friendly atmosphere and plenty of prizes-- Coinciding with the Shop Hop is a Fiber Art enough to share! A Map-Passport found at any Competition and Exhibition at D'Arte Centre, of the shops will guide the "hopper" around 115 E. Jackson, Harlingen. Exhibit is from the two communities so the Passport can be January 26-February 18. A reception will be stamped. When completed and turned in, they held during the 3-day Shop Hop. For more are eligible for the drawing for prizes. This information: www.harlingenartforum.com.

Front: Edward Molina of Jackson Square Event Center. Middle: Judy Brady of Judy's Stitchery Nook, Karen Taubert of Taubert's Farm & Ranch, June Ramirez of Antique Emporium, Myrilla Sparhawk of D'Arte Centre, Jerrie Howell of Hand of Man Stained Glass Studio. Back: Pat Skye, Alma Palacios of Alma's Treasures, Kelly Sanchez of Quelle's Boutique, Mayte Zebrowski of Cossey Creations. Not in picture: Linda Cotham of Healthy Lifestyle, Paula Henken of Heartfelt Gifts & Cafe, Leticia Santiago of Irresistible, Paula Reyes of LoRees Dress Shop, Mary Rekward of Simply Elegant, Sally Blanco of Sister, Got Your Purse.

Alma’s Treasure • Antique Emporium Cossey Creations • D’ Arte Centre • Hand of Man Hearfelt Gifts & Café • Healthy Lifestyle Irresistible • Jackson Square Event Center Judy’s Stitchery • Lo-Ree’s Dress Shop Quelle Boutique • Simply Elegant Sister Got Your Purse • Taubert’s Farm & Ranch January 26-28, 2012

www.shopharlingenandsanbenito.com 10 • January 18, 2012 • LA FERIA NEWS The Toy and Lunch Give-away On a cold windy, wet Saturday morning, Christmas came early to the children of La Feria compliments of El Cen- tro Foods, Valley En- tertainment and the La Feria Lions club. Lines formed early for children to choose a toy of their choice from hundreds of toys displayed on tables in the El Centro parking lot. After making their big decision, the children along with their parents walked over to the Coke trailer where the children photos by Pat Harvey and their parents were lunch being given away given a hot dog, Coke and by El Centro Foods, Val- a popsicle. ley Entertainment and Besides the toys and the La Feria Lions Club, pastors Julio and Claudia Mendoza of the La Feria Templo Getsemani (264- 73436) provided 2 truck- loads of free tomatoes for the parents to take as many as they wished. The real story is the children, those angelic faces with their new toy or maybe it’s that hot dog, but it is the children. First, It’s the antici- pation as they wait in line La Feria Marine Visits to choose their toy. during Christmas Break City re-appoints Various Boards The City Commission were Arturo Martinez Number One City of on the progress of the In- time the city wants to ar- has approved resolu- and Norma Alaniz. La Feria for a two year door Recreation Facility, range a walk thru. After tions to re-appointed The three members term: Steve Brewer, and he says construction much delay, the air con- members to the LFEDC, that were re-appointed Brad Shields, Lori is moving along nicely. ditioning replacement LFIDC, Planning and to the Planning and Weaver, Betty Jo Dun- A progress meeting was project has fi nally been Zoning Committee, La Zoning Committee are lap, and Dan Sanchez held that same Tuesday, completed. Seven air Feria Zoning Board of Bishop Ronaldo Ortiz, The city also took and in about a month conditioning units have Adjustments, and Tax Mary E. Garcia, and Mr. action to adopt a Proc- to a month-and-a-half’s been replaced. Increment Reinvest- Reyes Rodriguez. lamation declaring the ment Zone. The board approved month of January 2012 Four City Commis- appointing Mr. Carlos as School Board Rec- Jerry’s Auto Service sioners were re-ap- Verduzco, Mr. Fernando ognition Month for La Expert Foreign & Domestic Repairs pointed to the La Feria Najar Jr., Jesse Garcia, Feria. Free Estimates On Repair Economic Development and Dolores Seabolt to Kenny’s Funland’s Corporation (LFEDC) members of the La Fe- request to operate a car- for another term of two ria Zoning Board of Ad- nival on Industrial Way years. The commis- justments for another (east of Church’s Fried sioners re-appointed term of two years with Chicken and south of were Lori Weaver, An- the stipulation of autho- McDonald’s) from Feb- LCPL Ryan Raphael Canales pictured here with his gelica P. Baldivia, John rizing Najar’s qualifi ca- ruary 2nd-Feburary 12th. Mon-Sat: 7am-6pm Sun: On Call little brother Matthew Ruben Canales, while visiting 1816. E Buss 83 Jerry Ramon Sr. during Christmas Vacation. A 2010 La Feria Graduate, Hernandez, and Victor tions. The board thanked them La Feria, Tx 78559 Phone#: 956-200-7570 Gonzalez Jr. The following mem- for all their hard work headed back to Owinawa, Japan this past Wednesday. The two members re- bers were appointed to and donation they made appointed to the La Feria the Board of Directors for the Winter Festival. Industrial Development for Tax Increment Rein- City Manager Sunny Corporation (LFIDC) vestment Zone (TIRZ) K. Philip gave updates

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Annual Pie Bake – Off Healthy And Cup Cake Contest !

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