The Community Press

Dec. 2023

EDCOUCH

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ELSA

INSIDE u Making Your New

Years Resolutions Cout pg.3

u A Haven in the City of Alamo

pg.6

u PSJA Health on Wheels

pg.7

u Fields of

Worship Event in Edcouch

pg.10

u City of Mercedes

Library Receives Family Place Libraries Project Grant pg.11

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LA VILLA

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MONTE ALTO  DONNA

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WESLACO

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MERCEDES

Issue 128

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ALAMO 

PROGRESO

Finding Joy in the Season: Tips for Managing Holiday Stress Illuminate this season with the most valuable gift you can bestow upon yourself: peace of mind. Transform the holidays into a joyous and stress-free period by prioritizing self-care, restoring equilibrium between work and home life, and refusing to succumb to the pressures that often accompany the festive season.

To navigate the holiday season with grace and tranquility, consider these practical tips for managing stress: Embrace Imperfection: Don’t burden yourself with unattainable expectations. Simplify your plans and ensure your activities are realistic, fostering a sense of accomplishment rather than burnout.

Early Wish List Creation: Define your holiday objectives early on. List your goals and outline the necessary steps to achieve them. Establish priorities and organize your tasks from the outset for a more streamlined approach.

Mindful Pacing: Acknowledge the busyness of Thanksgiving, see STRESS pg. 4

Image via Betuzas Coffee Cafe

Betuzas Cafe Serves Up More Than Just Coffee ELSA, Texas — When you step into Betuzas Coffee Cafe in Elsa, you’re entering a place that’s brewing up more than just coffee; it is a place dedicated to serving the community and it has quickly become a cherished gem in the hearts of the locals.

The story behind the name, Betuzas, is heartwarming. Brett and Beatrice, the proud owners, found inspiration in Beatrice’s childhood nickname. Brett shares, “My wife was born in Mexico City,

and they have a soccer team in Pachuca, with the mascot ‘Tuzo.’

We put the ‘B’ from Beatrice and the ‘A’ at the end to make it feminine. It was just a childhood nickname of hers from when they spent time at those soccer games.”

The cafe proudly supports local farmers and businesses, with their beans being roasted right here in the Rio Grande Valley. Brett see BETUZAS pg. 6

From Cars to Hearts: Texas Toy Drive Makes a Difference for Four Consecutive Years

Texas Toy Drive Collects Toys for LBJ Elementary (Courtesy: Texas Toy Drive)

In Elsa, Texas two devoted friends have taken it upon themselves to lend a helping hand to Santa this holiday season.

Longtime friends, Noah Gonzalez and Kayla Padilla, have collected hundreds of toys to give to LBJ Elementary students for Christmas. “This big collective effort is powerful and proves that people have the power to work as a unit, and provide low-income families with a way to bring joy to their loved ones.” The effort Gonzalez is talking about is his and Padilla’s annual toy drive.

Four years ago, Noah Gonzalez and Kayla Padilla decided to give back to the Elsa community.

Under the name Texas Toy Drive, the duo has been able to collect hundreds of toys for local children.

“The toy drive is entirely done for the children and ran out of our cars and home,” said Gonzalez.

The duo takes charge of the shopping process for each individual toy, leveraging deals through couponing. The emphasis on cash donations is strategic, aiming to maximize the value of each donor’s contribution, especially during the couponing phase.

“We take time to locate the best deals at retail locations and plan see TOYS pg. 4

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The Way God Speaks

Ask God to help you hear Him and understand His will in every circumstance.

No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted

Think about a time when you were highly distracted—it’s unlikely you were able to hear God at all. Sometimes, when that happens, the Lord chooses to speak through unusual circumstances.

Consider Moses in the third chapter of Exodus. Though well-educated and raised by royalty, he was exiled to the wilderness. He was no doubt surprised by such a turn of events and preoccupied by fear, disappointment, and pride.

But God had big plans for Moses. So He arranged something that the shepherd couldn’t ignore: a burning bush.

Even more startling, the Lord spoke to Moses through it!

And Scripture gives other examples,

such as Balaam’s donkey being given the ability to speak (Num. 22:28).

Sometimes this is exactly how God works—by doing something so unusual that we have no choice but to stop, look, and listen.

It is helpful to recognize God in every circumstance, from the wild and unexpected to the simple and ordinary.

By spending time in His Word and in prayer, we can get better and better at perceiving Him. And then, whether our situation seems unbelievably good or unbearably bad, we are wise to step back and ask the Lord to help us view the matter from His perspective

The Power of Extending Kindness and Authenticity to Everyone in Your Path

Ever heard the expression that some people light up the room when they enter? As it turns out, there’s a name for that! It’s called the “heliotropic effect,” and when practiced, it could be the key to better business and a brighter life.

Dr. Harry Cohen applies the heliotropic effect to business in his new book, Be the Sun, Not the Salt In “Five Keys to Flourishing in Trying Times,” University of Michigan Professor Kim Cameron defines the heliotropic effect as “the tendency in all living systems toward that which gives life and away from that which depletes life—toward positive energy and away from negative energy.”

Just as plants turn to the light, people do too.

Fellow University of Michigan alumni, psychologist and executive coach, Dr. Harry Cohen, simplified it further: “Be the sun, not the salt,” a mantra that became the title of his new book.

It’s simple enough to implement. A heliotropic person looks for any opportunity to be a positive influence and, most importantly, acts on it. “When you see someone who needs assistance, offer them a hand,” Cohen says. “It’s practice. How can you lift someone up? Make their day? Say a kind word?

Think of the best coaches, the best friends, the best teammates, the best strangers. It’s a mindset but it’s also a way of life. “Being dependable is a quality we like in other people. Authenticity—we like it when people are real. We like it when people

are grateful. There are endless opportunities for us to practice these qualities. By doing so, [the results are] immediate. We feel better, and other people around us feel better,” Cohen says.

How does the heliotropic effect show up in leadership and business?

Cameron’s research indicates the most effective companies have the highest numbers of heliotropic leaders. “Your organization will be more successful on every metric from customer retention to employee engagement and profitability,” Cohen says.

Leaders need to be aware of their impact. “Leaders must be ‘on,’ and that doesn’t mean happy all the time. They just need to be deliberate in terms of their emotional contagion. They know the power of their words, and they use their words deliberately to bring out the best in their people, so [those] people bring out the best in their other people and their customers.”

However, the heliotropic effect isn’t a switch that can be turned on or off on a whim. A key tenet of being heliotropic is complete authenticity rather than toxic positivity. “You can’t fake any of this,” Cohen says. “Get this into your culture. It’s heliotropic to desire to be better, for continuous improvement in how we really care about our customers and our employees. This will drive performance.”

How do we identify and recover from ‘salt’?

A heliotropic person bites their tongue when it comes to expressing anything that wounds and looks for opportunities to make something better or, at the very least, not to make anything worse.

Salt, in the extended metaphor of the heliotropic effect, is what causes our roots to shrink, making us wither.

“Salt is unkindness, incivility, disrespect, poor listening, selfishness and inauthenticity,” Cohen explains. “Little snarky ways we communicate at work, like ‘as per my previous email.’ We are short with people. We are impatient. We are unkind, disrespectful, or rude. We make people feel stupid.

Salty behavior comes in different forms, and it’s the subtle ones that are probably the most damaging because we think they don’t matter. And all of this is salt on our roots.”

When it comes to leadership, it matters even more. In business, we want to energize customers and colleagues, which can’t possibly happen when leaders are perceived as volatile.

How do you tell if your leadership falls under this

category? According to Cohen, it’s when co-workers and colleagues whisper things like, “What mood is he in? Don’t say the wrong thing. You’ve got to be careful around him or her.” An environment like this doesn’t inspire psychological safety.

“You want to feel safe to bring up difficult conversations and challenge a boss or a colleague in a way that isn’t going to be met with defensiveness and friction,” Cohen says.

Heliotropic effect leadership strategies If you’re trying to be heliotropic in a work environment that has experienced nothing but salt, Cohen offers five ways to do so without veering into toxic positivity territory: Know you’re not crazy. If you’re reading up on a toxic, negative, salty environment and you see your work environment described, you’re not wrong.

Find a colleague or confidant to talk to and help you figure it out, gain perspective and think through strategies. Make sure you’re in the best possible shape to endure a toxic environment and find allies.

Don’t succumb to the temptation to go to the salty side. When you hear talk from people going down that toxic road, don’t join in the fray. Stay quiet.

Stay true to yourself and your values. Watch how it affects your confidence and make sure you’re not suffering from it emotionally or physically.

If all else fails, make your plan to leave. It may take a while but start to formulate a plan. If you can’t make it a better, healthier environment, you can’t change it. If you can’t influence the players to change, find another place to work.

How does one do damage control after spreading ‘salt’?

“When you say something negative and lose your temper, you have to immediately do the next right thing and apologize well,” Cohen explains. “You need to clean it up and not make any excuses.

‘What I said was inexcusable and I want to make amends.’ You have to want to [become heliotropic] You have to over-index on the positive. You’re never supposed to make people feel bad.” In Cohen’s TED talk, he concludes by asking his audience to focus on producing an “afterglow, rather than an aftertaste.” A heliotropic person has others basking in their warmth. Aspiring to bring more sunshine into our daily lives may sound idealistic, but the proof is there. Worth a try, isn’t it?

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Note from the Editor As the editor of the Community Press, I believe that getting involved in your community is not just a choice; it’s a responsibility. Here in the Rio Grande Valley, our newspaper’s mission is to promote progress and growth. To make a substantial impact, it’s essential for residents to actively engage in various ways.

Attend Local Meetings: Start by attending town hall meetings, neighborhood gatherings, and civic organizations. These forums allow you to understand the current issues and voice your opinions.

Volunteer: Give your time to local charities, schools, or environmental groups. Volunteering can make an immediate difference, whether it’s tutoring a student, cleaning up a park, or assisting at a food bank.

Join Local Committees: Many municipalities have committees that focus on topics like sustainability, education, or public safety. By joining one, you can directly influence policies and initiatives.

Support Local Businesses: Shopping at locally-owned businesses helps boost the local economy and encourages entrepreneurship.

Discover Information: Explore and learn about what’s happening in our community. Discover success stories and local heroes. Stay informed about important issues, events, and opportunities.

By actively participating in community life, you can foster unity, stimulate growth, and drive positive change. It’s not just about improving the Rio Grande Valley; it’s about creating a vibrant and thriving community that benefits us all. Your involvement matters, and the Community Press is here to help you stay informed and engaged. Together, we can shape a brighter future for our beloved community.

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Making Your New Year’s Resolution Count Implementing a New Year’s resolution requires proactive steps to turn aspirations into reality. The initial decision is only the beginning; the real challenge lies in execution.

Transforming your resolution into a tangible commitment involves strategic actions that enhance its significance and permanence.

Firstly, writing down your goal on paper grants it a concrete existence beyond mere contemplation. This not only reinforces its importance but also instills a sense of value.

Developing a detailed plan is crucial for success. Whether aiming to exercise more or pursue any other resolution, outlining actionable steps creates a roadmap for achievement.

Utilizing reminders is a practical strategy.

Leaving notes in frequently viewed places serves as a constant reinforcement, ensuring your goal remains visible. Realism is key;

avoid setting unrealistic goals that may lead to unnecessary difficulty. Instead of aspiring to run a four-minute mile, consider more achievable steps like joining a running club and committing to jogging regularly.

Planning for the entire year is essential, especially for resolutions requiring long-term efforts. Recognize the inevitability of mistakes; being too rigid may hinder progress. Accept that setbacks are part of the journey towards meaningful change.

Looking at achievable goals for the new year, health-related resolutions often top the list.

Simple adjustments, such as reducing portion sizes and incorporating minimal exercise like walking, contribute to overall well-being. Regular check-ups, financial assessments, and addressing legal matters are practical steps towards a holistic self-improvement journey.

Actively listening to others is a valuable gift, fostering stronger connections. Outreach to elderly relatives, understanding their needs, and offering assistance demonstrates care and support. For parents with young children, slowing down morning and bedtime routines can enhance family well-being.

Volunteer work provides an avenue to contribute to the community. Whether helping the homeless or coaching a sports team, engaging in such activities not only benefits others but also adds a dimension of physical activity to one’s life.

As the New Year unfolds, embracing these strategies can pave the way for a transformative and fulfilling journey towards achieving resolutions and fostering personal growth.

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South Texas Health System Launches New Chemical Unit to Combat Drug and Alcohol Abuse

EDINBURG, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Chemical dependency unit with the South Texas Health System in Edinburg is aimed to help people battling alcohol and drug abuse.

Health experts share what they are aiming to accomplish as opioid use is on the rise.

“We talk to them, we let them know that they’re not alone we’re here to help and we’re going to offer the best help that we can get,” Alberto Guerrero, Licensed Dependency Counselor with South Texas Health System said.

Nurses, mental health therapists, along with many health experts can be found in Edinburg’s new chemical dependency unit.

The goal of the new unit is to help those battling alcohol and drug addiction which can have a severe impact on a person’s life.

“It affects families, relationships, employment, ranges from so many different things but we try to tackle this issue as best we can, focusing on a holistic approach,” Guerrero said.

Guerrero says the facility has seen an increase of patients seeking help. Staff says a big reason for this influx is because of opioid use and that includes cases involving fentanyl here in the Valley.

“As time progresses, we’ve seen various

Image Via South Texas Health System's Post

types of drugs that are flooding the market but especially illicit drugs that deal with opioid abuse. Because fentanyl is so deadly and addicting, it is a great concern for a lot of us,” Guerrero said.

In a 10-state study by the CDC, they calculated that almost 57 percent of people who died from an overdose tested positive for fentanyl and fentanyl analogs also tested positive for cocaine, methamphetamine, or heroin.

Guerrero says it may be difficult to seek help

STRESS continued from pg. 1 Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, and New Year’s. Recognize that the season unfolds over several weeks, enabling you to break preparations into manageable steps. Delegate tasks and seek assistance when needed.

Financial Prudence: Resist the temptation to overspend by setting a clear holiday budget. Determine what you can afford and adhere to your financial limits. Avoid the pitfalls of credit-driven purchases that may lead to post-holiday financial stress.

Cultivate the Festive Spirit: Immerse yourself in the joy of the season.

Decorate early, indulge in holiday traditions, and revel in the simple pleasures often overlooked by adults caught in the hustle and bustle.

Me Time: Counteract the holiday rush with moments

of tranquility. Incorporate relaxation techniques, meditation, and deep-breathing exercises into your routine. Dedicate one quiet evening each week to activities you genuinely enjoy.

Give Back: Experience the profound joy of self-sacrifice by volunteering at local community centers, soup kitchens, or charity organizations. Acts of kindness towards others can evoke a genuine sense of inner warmth and self-worth.

Cherish Family: Navigate family gatherings with a positive mindset. Savor the moments spent with loved ones and make a conscious effort to radiate relaxation, positivity, and cheerfulness.

Reflect on Past Joys: Recall cherished moments from previous holiday seasons and endeavor to recapture the essence that made those times special.

but making that first step could change your future.

“Walking in through those doors is a very difficult decision, but it’ll be well worth the effort,” Guerrero said.

South Texas Health System has requested an expansion adding an additional 10 beds to help with recovery and sobriety care.

Celebrate Responsibly: Exercise moderation in festivities to safeguard your well-being. Treat your body with respect by avoiding excessive indulgence in sweets and alcohol. Ensure a safe celebration by refraining from driving under the influence.

New Year’s Resolutions: Challenge yourself with aspirations for the upcoming year. Set meaningful goals, commit to them, and enlist the support of others to help you stay on track.

Open Up to a Trusted Friend: If the holiday blues weigh you down, don’t endure it in silence. Reach out to someone you trust and share your feelings.

By incorporating these strategies, you can infuse the holiday season with tranquility and set the stage for a fulfilling and harmonious celebration.

TOY continued from pg. 1

Texas Toy Drive Collects Toys for LBJ Elementary (Courtesy: Texas Toy Drive)

they embarked on local doorstep deliveries throughout Elsa. “We took our donations to the streets and donated directly to homes in our town, Elsa. We drove around the community and surrounding neighborhoods, playing

out a shopping strategy,” said Gonzalez.

Reflecting on their initiative, Gonzalez and Padilla recall that three years ago, they faced the challenge of distributing the accumulated toys. Opting for a personal touch,

Christmas music, and hand delivering toys,” Said Gonzalez.

The initiative has expanded its reach to different parts of Texas, donating to various organizations such as Rissho Kosei-Kai Buddhist Center of San Antonio and Court-Appointed Special Advocates (C.A.S.A.) in Edinburg Their vision for the future includes continuing to support their alma mater, L.B.J., and expanding donations to other schools, such as Roberto Garate Elementary, honoring Noah’s grandfather’s legacy in the community of Monte Alto.

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PVAS Offering Vouchers to Encourage Pet Adoptions

PVAS introduces vouchers to promote pet adoptions. from the KRGV article by Lili Celeste

Stray animals are a big problem across the Rio Grande Valley. Local shelters are always looking for donations or adoptions, but before you adopt a new family member, you need to be ready.

The responsibility and commitment is something that Palm Valley Animal Society wants everyone to keep in mind.

Right now, PVAS has close to a thousand pets at their shelter and this Christmas, they’re encouraging people to adopt.

But you need to have a plan. PVAS says every year, pets are given as gifts and end up right back at the shelter.

“They go through a lot of trauma as it is coming into our shelters. Finding a loving family, thinking ‘this is it, I’m home.’ and then coming back, they’re scared,” Spokesperson for PVAS Adriana Gonzales said.

To try and prevent animals from ending up at the shelter, PVAS is offering something new this year.

They’re selling vouchers that can be given as Christmas gifts so that your friends can come to the shelter and find a pet that meets their needs.

“This helps get a wonderful gift for someone, but at the same time they come into our shelters, see the animals that we have and make the perfect choice for them and their lifestyle,” Gonzales said.

The vouchers can be picked at either PVAS shelter listed below. They range from $50 to $250.

Palm Valley Animal Society, Edinburg locations: 2501 west Trenton Road 2451 north U.S. Expressway 281

A Haven in the City of Alamo

The Santa Ana Wildlife Refuge stands as a testament to the region’s commitment to preserving its natural treasures. Covering 2,088 acres of prime Rio Grande Valley real estate, this refuge is a sanctuary for a diverse array of wildlife and a source of inspiration for both locals and tourists. In this blog, we’ll explore what the Santa Ana Wildlife Refuge means to our region, the tourism opportunities it offers, and the symbiotic relationship it shares with Alamo businesses through the magic of ecotourism.

Santa Ana Wildlife Refuge: A Sanctuary for Biodiversity The Santa Ana Wildlife Refuge is a true jewel of South Texas, playing a crucial role in preserving the region’s unique ecosystem. This refuge is not just any park; it’s a hub of biodiversity that shelters over 400 species of birds, see SANTA ANA pg. 10

Spanish-Moss (Courtesy of Santa Wildlife Reguge)

BETUZAS continued from pg. 1 passionately champions this commitment, saying, “Everything’s a local product; we do all valley citrus juice because there’s lots of citrus farming going on. I come from a farming background, so I am trying to support the local farmers here.”

The result is a delightful menu that caters to the unique tastes of the region. From the rich Cafe de Olla and a crowd-favorite, The Campfire, a specialty drink made with chocolate Abuelita. But it’s not just about the coffee; it’s about the food too. Unlike many coffee shops, Betuzas offers a full food menu, including delicious breakfast items like huevos rancheros, chilaquiles, breakfast tacos, and daily lunch specials. For those on the go, Betuzas has a drive-through, ensuring a swift and convenient experience.

Betuzas Coffee Cafe’s success isn’t just about what’s in the cup; it has quickly become a beloved community hub. The coffee shop hosts a variety of community-related events, including workshops and live music. It’s a place where people gather and support one another, just as Beatrice and Brett intended.

“We wanted to be a net asset to the commu-

Image via Betuzas Coffee Cafe

nity, like we don’t want to show up and have nothing to really offer; we want to be accepted as well. And the way to do that is to have a reciprocal relationship.” Brett’s enthusiasm is infectious when he says, “We wanted to give the city of Elsa something truly nice, somewhere they can study, have a Bible study, a relaxing place where we can take our kids and

get out of the house for a minute.”

So, next time you’re in Elsa, stop by. Betuzas Coffee Cafe is here to offer you a warm embrace right in the heart of Elsa. The name might be unique, but the feeling is universal — a slice of community life that is best enjoyed one sip at a time.

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Local Teacher at Santiago Garcia Elementary Receives 200-Book Donation from STLC

Santiago Garcia Elementary’s Mrs. Lisa Treviño

Santiago Garcia Elementary School in Edcouch-Elsa, Texas, has reported that Lisa Treviño, one of its teachers, has received a donation of 200 books from the South Texas Literacy Coalition (STLC). This donation acknowledges Mrs. Treviño’s efforts in early childhood literacy. The STLC, a group of over 35 members and organizations, works to improve literacy in the region. In 2022, the coalition distributed more than 120,000 books to support literacy in local communities.

Mrs. Treviño expressed her appreciation for the books, highlighting her commitment to literacy. She mentioned that the STLC’s books are costly and she is pleased they will benefit her students. The 200 books have expanded her classroom library and have also been distributed to her colleagues, Mrs. Garcia and Mrs. Rodriguez.

Mrs. Treviño emphasized the value of early literacy engagement, stating that it’s important to involve students in reading from a young age.

The STLC’s donation is anticipated to positively influence Santiago Garcia Elementary’s students, encouraging a reading and learning culture within the school.

Dr. Jesse Fidelio Garza, Public Relations & Parental Outreach Administrator, thanked the STLC for their commitment to literacy in the region. He expressed hope that the donated books will foster a love for reading among the students.

For more details on the South Texas Literacy Coalition and their work, visit their website at https://southtexasliteracy.org/. The organization continues to support literacy in South Texas, with the donation to Santiago Garcia Elementary being a recent initiative.

‘It’s Done’: Mary Evensen, 67, Proves Age is Just A Number When it Comes to Achieving Goals

Maria (Mary) Evensen (Courtesy: UTRGV)

Maria (Mary) Evensen always stressed the importance of achieving an education to her daughters. And on Saturday, Evensen is graduating with her own degree – a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art. Evensen, now 67, started attending UTPA in 1975, but decided to stop so she could work and start a family.

Now, almost 50 years later, Evensen will cross the stage and accept her diploma. It has been a lifelong dream for her.

“I don’t know if I’m going to cry once I walk up,” Evensen said, thinking about this week-

end’s commencement ceremony.

To show their pride for their mom’s hard work, Evensen’s daughters – Annette Perez, Angela Garza and Alyssa Urbina – pitched in to buy their mom a graduation ring ahead of commencement.

“I’m really proud of myself, and my family is really proud of me, too,” Evensen said. “Nothing was going to stop me. I am a very strongwilled person.”

‘I WANTED TO SET A GOOD EXAMPLE FOR THEM’ see UTRGV pg. 8

PSJA Independent School District Promotes Community Health Through Health on Wheels Initiative

The PSJA Independent School District Health Service Department is proud to announce its ongoing collaboration with the PSJA Police Department for the Health on Wheels initiative, a key component of the district’s commitment to promoting good health and well-being within the community.

The Health on Wheels initiative involves the deployment of the district’s Health and Safety Mobile Operations Bus to designated locations on specific dates, offering free health services and educational resources to all community members.

As part of this initiative, several upcoming dates have been scheduled for community outreach events where the Health and Safety Mobile Operations Bus will be stationed. The dates and locations for the outreach initiative are as follows: January 18 - Alamo Community Resource Center - 1429 South Tower Road, Alamo February 22 - North San Juan Softball Field - 500 East Earling, San Juan March 21 - Rudy Villareal Oak Square Apartments - 309 North 9th Street, Alamo

Image Via PSJA Post

April 18 - La Canteras Apartments - 415 East Thomas Road, Pharr May 16 - Nebraska Mobil Park

- 1437 Nebraska, Alamo June 4 - South Alamo Estates - 1126 South Alamo Road, Alamo

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City of Mercedes Welcomes New Police Chief Thursday was the first full day on the job for Mercedes police Chief Frank Sanchez.

2011 when he worked for the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

Prior to his appointment as police chief, Sanchez served as the department’s public information officer for five years.

In 2013, Sanchez began working for the La Feria Police Department.

Sanchez then began working for the Mercedes Police Department in 2016.

Sanchez’s law enforcement career began in Police Chief Frank Sanchez Sponsored by Mercedes Development Corporation

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UTRGV continued from pg. 7 Receiving her diploma marks decades of work for Evensen, who pursued her degree in bursts throughout life’s many ups and downs.

The Weslaco native worked for a developing company for 17 years before retiring. During her working years, she went through a tough divorce and eventually remarried.

After raising her first two daughters, Evensen at 37 decided to restart her college journey.

Then she discovered she was pregnant with her third daughter.

“I tried (to continue with school), but I was five months pregnant and just lasted one semester,” she said. “And after I had my baby, I needed to be home to take care of her, and then just went right back to work after that.”

Evensen said that it’s not uncommon for people to put their education on the back burner when they have little ones, but finishing her degree remained an important factor.

At 43, Evensen tried to go back to school again and was able to get two more years under her belt before her financial aid ran out.

“The divorce really made me want to push forward and get my degree,” she said. “At that time, with no education, I thought, ‘What am I going to do now?’”

While Evensen had to stop attending college off and on, she always encouraged her daughters to continue their educations.

“I got to raise my girls really well even though we went through a rough divorce. I wanted to set a good example for them,” she said.

AGE IS JUST A NUMBER Evensen said she’s always had a love for arts

and crafting, so in retirement, she decided to revisit her dream of earning a degree and checked the resources UTRGV offered.

“Sure enough, I saw that UTRGV was offering financial aid for people over 65, which I was, so I got really excited about that,” she said.

Evensen took advantage of the Senior Citizen Tuition Waiver, which covers the tuition cost of 6-credit hours of graduate courses per semester based on space and availability.

She said attending school again at 65 wasn’t easy, but she had a lot of support from her family.

“My daughters are really good with computers and since I hadn’t been in college for so long, I didn’t know what anything was – like Blackboard – I said, ‘What’s a Blackboard?’ and they were able to help me navigate everything.”

Evensen was originally pursuing a degree in sports education in 1975, as she wanted to be a P.E. (Physical Education) coach but changed her major to Studio Art early on. Her goal is to start selling her art, which she said UTRGV fully prepared her for.

“Everything at UTRGV was amazing – the professors, the classmates, the resources – everyone was so helpful, and who knows, maybe I’ll come back for my master’s someday,” she said.

Evensen said there certainly is a stigma about being an older adult in class, but she said don’t let this fear hinder your goals.

“I loved coming back (to college), I loved it,” she said. “If anybody reading this is thinking

about going back, I say just go back. If you’re willing, just go back. I think a lot of people think they’re too old to go back, but I did it and here I am now, about to graduate. It’s done.”

A SWEET SURPRISE Evensen’s daughters surprised her on Nov. 14 with a graduation ring which they presented to her during the UTRGV Ring Ceremony.

“I really wanted a ring, but they were too pricey,” Evensen said. “I went to look at them a few times just to get an idea and look at designs but decided to wait to purchase one for myself later.”

In mid-October, Evensen said her daughters planned a surprise for her ahead of her graduation.

“They told me to make no plans on November 14, so I thought ok maybe they are taking me to dinner or something like that. My husband was in on it, too,” she said. “We get to the university, and I thought my daughter, who is a music major at UTRGV graduating next year, was having a surprise recital and we walked into the ring ceremony, and they showed me my ring.”

Decades of having to put her own goals on hold to work and care for her family came full circle for Evensen in that moment, who was shocked and grateful for the sweet surprise.

“It was really amazing,” she said with tears in her eyes. “I didn’t expect it and it was just so wonderful.”

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Cameron County Selects VTX1 as Its Private Sector Broadband Partner

BROWNSVILLE, Texas – Cameron county commissioners have chosen VTX-1 Internet as their main partner to bridge the county’s digital divide. VTX1, based in Raymondville, beat off competition from AT&T, Charter Communications, and SmartCom to win the “County-Wide Broadband Expansion Project” contract. The request for proposals number was RFP No. 230102.

Cameron County Judge Eddie Treviño, Jr., said the public private partnership with VTX-1 is a positive first step toward the goal of making affordable broadband services available to every resident in Cameron County. “Expanding broadband connectivity in our area has been a top priority of the Commissioners Court,” Treviño said.

“The pandemic shed light on the lack of broadband connectivity in our area and the disadvantage this created for our citizens. This partnership with VTX-1 is a positive step toward addressing the digital divide that exists in our area and will ensure that our citizens have the necessary broadband connectivity they need for education, working remotely and telemedicine.”

Patrick McDonnell, CEO of VTX1, said his company is keen to get to work in Cameron County. “VTX1 Internet is very excited to partner with Cameron County and its forward-think-

ing leaders on how best to solve the digital divide locally. Local government working with a local company demonstrates how groups with common values can come together to great things done,” McDonnell told the Rio Grande Guardian International News Service. “The real winners are the residents of Cameron County because they will be getting access to highspeed broadband without having to use any of the counties’ taxpayer dollars.”

A press release issued by Cameron County states that the agreement with VTX1 provides professional grant writing services to pursue grant opportunities to help fund broadband expansion estimated at well over $100 million dollars. The release says the agreement also provides minimum speeds of 100/50 mbs at a $30.00 per month price point for all new and existing customers. Qualifying low-income households will have the opportunity to pursue reimbursement through the Affordable Connectivity Program and receive $30.00 per month to cover the service fee.

“Prior to competing for grant funding, VTX-1 has agreed to fund the installation of reliable, high-speed broadband infrastructure within 120 calendar days to the areas of Bluetown, Lozano, San Pedro and the area south of the causeway on South Padre Island including Isla Blanca Park,” the press release states.

Patrick McDonnell, CEO of VTX1 Internet.

“Additionally, VTX-1 will expand wireless services to several areas within Cameron County to provide connectivity with improved download and upload speeds.”

A VTX1 delegation had to appear before Cameron County commissioners to make their pitch for the contract. So did the other three internet service providers (ISPs). Jeffrey Patterson, VTX1’s vice president of sales and business see CAMERON pg. 10

Kids Go Shopping During the Harlingen Rotary Club’s Christmas Closet

The Rotary Club of Harlingen hosted its 7th annual Christmas Closet at Target on Saturday, Dec. 9, 2023. (Courtesy: Rotary Club of Harlingen)

They swept through the store in the early hours, filling the aisles with their searching eyes armed with the power of generosity for a morning of shopping.

It was the 7th annual Christmas Closet service project hosted by the Rotary Club of Harlingen, and 50 kids Saturday morning were exploring Target at 1002 Dixieland Rd. “The management at Target made sure the event ran smoothly,” said Juju Stringfield, president of the Rotary Club of Harlingen.

“They were ready at 7:30 a.m. with complimentary coffee for the volunteers and delicious hot cocoa for the young ones who were filled with excitement as they were welcomed

by the drum line, the mascots and the cheerleaders from Harlingen High School South and Harlingen High School.”

Rotary Club members and community volunteers took the children through the story to do their Christmas shopping, Stringfield said.

“These students were identified by the Harlingen Consolidated Independent School District as members of financially insecure households,” Stringfield said. “This year, 50 kids received $150 gift cards individually to purchase their gifts as they were assisted by their assigned volunteers.”

The kids were visibly excited by their good fortune, Stringfield said.

“As one of the kids was leaving with a cart full of toys and other things, he was asked what he had gotten and he responded, ‘I got socks, lots of socks,’” she said. “Others were happy with dolls or the very popular books and remote controlled cars.”

This kind of infectious joy spreads itself to everyone involved.

“This is what we at the Rotary Club enjoy most, to watch those happy smiles that let us know that at that time these deserving kids feel special and cared for,” Stringfield said.

“That is worth all the work and fundraising during the year.”

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December 2023

Issue 128

thecommunitypress.org

Fields of Worship Event Celebrates Unity and Community in Edcouch

The City of Edcouch hosted its Fields of Worship Event on Sunday, Dec. 10, 2023. (Courtesy: City of Edcouch)

The City of Edcouch proudly hosted its first-ever Fields of Worship Event on December 10, 2023, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Edcouch Municipal Park. The event, a collaborative effort among several local churches, aimed to foster unity and community spirit through an evening of worship and prayer.

The turnout for the Fields of Worship Event exceeded expectations, with a diverse crowd coming together to celebrate faith and fellowship. The event showcased the joint efforts of

Ebenezer Church, Refuge Rock Church, Harvest Time Church, and Limitless Church, each contributing their worship groups and congregations.

“Thank you, Pastor Anthony from Refuge Rock Church, for your help with this amazing event! The turnout was great, and worship was incredible!” expressed the City of Edcouch. “A big shoutout to the leaders of Ebenezer, Refuge Rock, Harvest Time, and Limitless Church for bringing in your worship groups and con-

gregations!”

Despite the chilly weather, attendees were encouraged not to let it deter them from a night of blessings and community connection. The City of Edcouch extended a warm invitation to the entire community, urging families to make it a family night by bringing chairs, blankets, and even a picnic to enjoy during the event.

SANTA ANA continued from pg. 6 450 species of butterflies, and numerous other animals. It’s a vital stopover point for migratory birds and a breeding ground for several endangered species. The refuge’s impact on the local ecosystem is immeasurable. It maintains and restores the native habitats essential to the survival of these species, contributing to the region’s overall ecological health.

A Gateway to Nature For residents of South Texas, the Santa Ana Wildlife Refuge is not just an ecological haven but a gateway to nature’s wonders. It offers numerous hiking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and educational programs that allow people to connect with the natural world.

Whether you’re an avid birder, a nature enthusiast, or a family looking for an educational adventure, the refuge has something to offer everyone.

Ecotourism As the Santa Ana Wildlife Refuge continues to attract nature lovers from all over the country and even internationally, the surrounding re-

gion, including Alamo, experiences a surge in ecotourism. This influx of tourists seeking an authentic natural experience brings significant economic benefits to the local community.

Alamo’s businesses directly benefit from ecotourism.

Local restaurants, hotels, and shops see an increase in foot traffic as tourists seek places to dine, stay, and shop during their visit to the refuge.

This boost in business creates jobs, fosters entrepreneurship, and generates additional tax revenue for the city.

Alamo, like other nearby communities, can invest in infrastructure, services, and amenities that cater to tourists’ needs and make their visit even more enjoyable.

Alamo EDC also fosters a sense of community pride and environmental responsibility.

When local businesses understand the value of the Santa Ana Wildlife Refuge and actively participate in the ecotourism ecosystem, they contribute to the region’s conservation efforts.

In this way, they help ensure that the refuge remains a thriving habitat for wildlife and a source of inspiration for future generations.

A Win-Win for All The Santa Ana Wildlife Refuge is a testament to the intrinsic connection between conservation and economic prosperity. It’s a place where nature lovers and local businesses converge, creating a symbiotic relationship that benefits everyone involved. Through ecotourism, Alamo and its neighboring communities can celebrate the refuge’s unique natural treasures while simultaneously enjoying economic growth.

Call Alamo EDC for Investment Advice As the city celebrates the Santa Ana Wildlife Refuge, let’s remember that the commitment to protecting the environment is an investment in our collective future. If you would like to be part of the city’s growth reach them at (956) 787-6622.

CAMERON continued from pg. 9 development, led the delegation.

Patterson told the commissioners that VTX1 will utilize its own funding and pursue grant opportunities to help cover the cost to expand broadband connectivity and will not require any financial contribution from Cameron County.

“We’re experts at bridging the digital divide,” Patterson said, when he made his pitch. “VTX1 has been laying fiber for over 20 years. We’ve been bringing internet for decades to the people focused on the rural areas. And this is right up our alley as far as what we’re comfortable with and what we’re experts at doing.”

Patterson said the team VTX1 has assembled for the Cameron County project would put together the largest possible grant stack available.

“We’re proud to serve the communities with the principles of service, excellence, and value. We’ve got the experience, the capabilities, the resources, and skilled staff required to provide that turnkey solution that will provide the fast and reliable internet,” Patterson said.

“So, essentially, we’re more than qualified to handle a project of this scope.”

When the four ISPs made their pitch for the County-Wide Broadband Expansion Project,

Cameron County Commissioner David Garza said: “Our goal is to make the service available to all the people of Cameron County. We want all of the kids to be able to access it and be able to do distance learning. We want to make sure that folks that need telemedicine can get counseled and taken care of at home if they need to be. It’s a critical piece of utility now. It is not a luxury. As the judge said, it’s a necessity.”

December 2023

Issue 128

thecommunitypress.org

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City of Mercedes Library Receives Family Place Libraries Project Grant The Dr. Hector P. Garcia library in Mercedes Texas is excited to announce that they were selected as one of the lucky recipients of the Family Place Libraries Project Grant.

TSLAC initiated this project in 2015 to help public libraries address early learning with a goal of ensuring that all children enter school ready and able to learn. The purpose is to create a welcoming, family-centered environment that empowers caregivers of young children as they become their child’s first teachers. This project will provide funding for the training and equipment necessary for each library to: • Host workshops for children ages 0-3 and their caregivers.

• Develop an interactive space for this age group to play and learn in the library.

• Forge strong partnerships with organizations serving young children and their families.

Financed by a combination of grant funds, the Family Place Libraries™ Project provides tuition to attend training, travel stipends for each attendee, and reimbursement of purchases for establishing the program. Participating libraries are granted tuition for up to two staff members to attend the Family Place Libraries™ Training Institute where they’ll learn the core elements of the Family Place Libraries™ model and re-

Dr. Hector P. Garcia Memorial Library

ceive assistance with the beginning stages of developing and maintaining a program at their facility. In addition, participating libraries can also expect three years of follow-up and support from the Middle Country Public Library (MCPL) following the training. Tuition for the Institute and follow-up support are provided through a grant from the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). Moreover, TSLAC will host an in-state Training Institute and provide each attendee with up to $700 in

stipends to offset the cost of travel. Finally, after attending the Institute, participants are eligible for an additional grant of $6,000 to assist with the development of their program.

Dr. Hector P library is located at 434 South Ohio Ave in Mercedes. Hours of operation is Monday through Thursday 9am to 7pm and Friday 9am to 5pm, Saturday and Sunday closed.

Follow them on Facebook, X and Instagram for events and resources.

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December 2023

Issue 128 thecommunitypress.org For your Advertisements, Contact: (956) 292-1590

PUBLIC NOTICE This notification is to inform parents/guardians and former students of Mid Valley Cooperative which includes (Edcouch-Elsa ISD, Monte Alto ISD, & La Villa ISD) of its intent to destroy the Special Education records of students who are no longer receiving Special Education services for the following school years 2010-2011-2012 2013-2014-2015-2016.

These records will be destroyed in accordance with state law.

The Parents/Guardian may request the records in writing or in person with proper documentation at the following address: SPECIAL EDUCATION DEPARTMENT 901 East Edinburg Ave. HWY 107 Elsa, Texas 78543 Attention Dalia Sanchez (Dasanchez@eeisd.org) (956) 262-6015 office number (956) 262-6016 fax number REQUEST FOR RECORDS MUST BE RECEIVED BY JANUARY 21, 2024