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CONTENTS San Benito Receives TPW Park Grant Sylvia Salinas, APRN, FNP-BC Helping The Community, One Patient at a Time Marcos Martinez, D.D.S. Serving San Benito with a Smile Enrique Ornelas, Jr. How Sweet It Is Texas Independence Celebration Battle Reenactment
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Museum Development Entering Second Phase Los Indios Free Trade Bridge New Cold Room Inspection Facility Hotel Accommodations City Approves AEP Request for Emergency Staging Area Museum Receives Grant from AEP Texas Heavin Trail Paving Complete
Our Hometown Magazine is produced and published by Graphics Center. Although every effort was made to verify the accuracy of all information, Graphics Center is not responsible for any errors or omissions which might have occurred. Please contact Graphics Center at 454-3277 if you find any errors or omissions and corrections will be made in the next publication.
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San Benito receives $314,780 in TPW park grant Splash pad, soccer fields, walking trail, BBQ pits, bleachers, restrooms included By MARTHA McCLAIN Public Relations Director City of San Benito
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he City of San Benito has won a $314,780 non-urban outdoor grant for its South Park Project from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission. With the grant award, the project’s budget climbs to $944,340 for the park development which will fund construction of a splash pad, multi-use trail, exercise equipment, playground, concession area, restrooms, picnic tables, lighted soccer fields, barbecue pits, solar lighting, screen planting, hydromulching, fine grading, irrigation, and signage. The trail will be configured to allow for walking, jogging or biking trail. The park will be located at 1151 S. Sam Houston Blvd., adjacent to Fire Station No. 1. “We are grateful to the Mayor and City Commission for their support of this muchneeded recreational facility in San Benito. This park will be the first-city owned park south of the expressway, in an area that will now feature quality facilities for our citizens there,” said Parks Director Art Garza. Infrastructure, including installation of water and sewer lines, has been completed on the designated 12.5 acres of land, according to Garza. The City has spent about $100,000 in City Community Development Block Grant funds to-date on the project. “The City earlier received a Legacy Foundation grant of $494,755 for development of the park. The Legacy Foundation grant will be used to match the TPWD grant,” Garza said. Additional funding sources for the new park include $104,864 from the City’s General Fund budget, $20,000 from Community Development Block Grant and $11,400 from in-kind services including, Cameron County Master Gardeners, Keep San Benito Beautiful and the Parks & Recreation Board, bringing the total to $944,340. The City Commission has approved an agreement with Heffner Design Team, a landscape architect to design what will be the City’s newest park. Garza told officials that he was ready to move the project
forward, with hopes that the entire project will be completed by year’s end. The $314,780 grant to San Benito is a part of just over $8 million in competitive local park grants to help fund projects that will create and enhance outdoor recreational opportunities like nature trails, native gardens, playgrounds, splash pads, dog parks and sports fields at 26 community parks across the State of Texas.
The grants, allocated to local government entities, appropriate state and federal funding dedicated for the acquisition and/or development of public recreation areas and facilities in Texas on a 50/50 reimbursement match basis. Once funded, all grant assisted sites must be dedicated as parkland in perpetuity, properly maintained and open to the public. The Texas Parks & Wildlife Commission, which administers the local parks grant program for the State of Texas, awarded projects in various categories based on community population size and scope. Urban Outdoor Recreation Grants are reserved for cities having populations exceeding 500,000, with projects in two communities receiving grants. The Non-Urban Outdoor Recreation Grants are dedicated to funding park projects in municipalities under 500,000 and the commission approved awards to projects in 14 communities. ❦
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Helping the Community, One Patient at a Time. F
rom humble beginnings as a migrant farm worker, Sylvia Salinas has worked her way up the nursing ranks to become one of the premier Family Nurse Practitioners. She’s a San Benito native, and 1987 graduate of San Benito High School. With 29+ years of experience, she is now currently on staff at Valley Baptist Physician Network Family Care Clinic which recently opened in San Benito. Sylvia Salinas and her mother, Isabel Longoria at LVN Pinning Sylvia decided to become a nurse due to her wanting to help her Ceremony -Valley Baptist School of Vocational Nursing in 1988. ill grandfather. He was battling chronic illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension, COPD, and was also oxygen dependent. She felt that in their footsteps as migrant farm workers. “Looking back now, in order to help him more, she needed to understand the disease I honestly do not regret working as a migrant worker. I think it process and the effects of the disease. Sylvia says, “I also wanted was an experience that taught me the fact that in order to have to become familiar with his something, you work hard for it treatment plan and understand “Every morning I thank God for waking me and once you have it, you value the “who, what, where, why up, and I ask Him to “give me smarts”. “ ‘Give it more because of the sacrifices and how” of medicine. My me smarts’, means for God to give me the and hardships one goes through grandfather lived long enough in those circumstances,” Sylvia to see me graduate from LVN ability to pick up on the not so obvious signs says. school, but sadly passed away and symptoms in addition to my patients’ Her family has always been in 1991. I remember that he nonverbal cues or body language,” says Sylvia. united and extremely supportive. was proud of me.” She also Her brother Rolando Longoria, remember his words to her, “Mija, ya que eres enfermeda, no se who is now a Physician’s Assistant, aided Sylvia through LVN te olvide quien eres y de donde vienes. Seas una buena enfermeda school by traveling to Michigan at the age of 16, and working as a y seas humilde”. migrant farm worker. He would send her money to pay for tuition, Her mother was also a huge motivator to attend college. She books, and student nurse uniforms. Without his help Sylvia would would always encourage Sylvia and her siblings to do well in have no been able to start her career in nursing. Sylvia has quickly school, doing well in their household was an expectation. Her moved up the nursing ladder starting as an LVN and now a Family mother instilled education as a priority so they would not follow Nurse Practitioner-Board Certified. Her next professional goal is to obtain her DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice) degree and continue as a Family Nurse Practitioner at Family Care Clinic-San Benito. Sylvia has such a heart and passion for her work. Her caring nature can be seen while she is treating her patients. “Every morning I thank God for waking me up, and I ask Him to “give me smarts”. “ ‘Give me smarts’, means for God to give me the ability to pick up on the not so obvious signs and symptoms in addition to my patients’ nonverbal cues or body language,” says Sylvia. It also refers to being able to find the correct words when speaking to her patients regarding their illness, diagnostic reports, diagnosis, and/or their concerns with plan of care by using caring, sympathetic and reassuring support. Apart from her daily rigors in the medical field, she is also is a mother to two exceptional children, Javier and Yvonne Salinas. Her personal goal is to be the best mom, daughter, wife, aunt, niece, cousin, and friend that she can be. ❦
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Sylvia Salinas, APRN, FNP-BC Sylvia is a skilled and experienced Nurse Practitioner, specializing in Family Medicine and care for the San Benito Community. She has over 29 years of experience in the field of medicine and treats patients of all ages with both acute and chronic medical illnesses. Sylvia graduated from the University of Texas Pan American in Edinburg, Texas with a Master of Science in Nursing. She is uncompromising in her dedication to the well-being of her patients, giving each patient her focused attention. She prides herself on delivering the best treatment available and is fluent in English and Spanish. At Family Care Clinic, we focus on treating the patient, not just the disease. Whether you need a simple check-up, help with an ongoing medical issue, or assistance with just about any other kind of health challenge, Family Care Clinic is here for you and your family. Our Board-Certified Providers are dedicated to promoting good health. Adults of all ages, children and teens can expect to receive personalized, comprehensive care using evidence-based medicine in a supportive environment. SERVICES: • Same-day appointments/walk-ins for minor injures and sick visits • Routine checkups and screenings for specific health concerns • Immunizations • Management of chronic illness or conditions • Well Women Exams • Preventative Medicine • Sports Physical • Medicare Annual Wellness Exam
Call today to schedule your appointment at 956.416.5900 or go to www.myvbpn.com to book online. 1141 Hwy. 77 - Suite B in the HEB Plaza San Benito, TX 78586 Spring 2018 | San Benito “Our Hometown” Community Magazine
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Smile!
Serving San Benito with a...
General Dentistry Procedures
We offer a comprehensive variety of general dentistry services, from basic exams, X-rays, and cleanings to the restoration of function and esthetics and most everything in between. Periodontal disease diagnosis, treatment, and maintenance is taken care of in office. We provide tooth-colored fillings and crowns to restore teeth with cavities or teeth that have broken down. We do root canals in office when appropriate. Multiple options to restore missing are offered, including implants, partial dentures, and complete dentures. Patients of all ages are welcomed with open arms, including the youngest of children.
Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures
From chipped or missing teeth to discoloration, we offer the latest techniques to correct all your cosmetic problems. Our experienced team works together to provide you with porcelain veneers, smile whitening, ceramic crowns, resin bonding and dental implants in order for you have a great smile.
Orthodontics
We offer top quality orthodontic services using the InvisalignÂŽ System. Invisalign is a unique method for straightening your teeth using a series of customized, virtually invisible clear aligners. The aligners are quite comfortable and can be removed so you can continue to eat the foods you enjoy throughout treatment.
Marcos Martinez, D.D.S.
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hen it comes to dentistry in San Benito, De La Rosa & Martinez Dentistry has been a staple in the community over several years. Recently, the business has undergone a seamless transition to Martinez Dental Group. Dr. Marcos Martinez is now at the helm of a dental practice with a rich history in San Benito. “The office has been around for over 35 years. I pride myself on keeping up with those expectations and exceeding them,” says Martinez. The staff has remained the same from the years past; yet, there has been some great additions to the already well-experienced staff. Dr. Martinez is originally from Kingsville, TX. In high school he was interested in many science-based courses. His passion was to become a health professional in some capacity, so he would be able to help others. Eventually, dentistry sparked his interest, and he began visiting local dentists which confirmed dentistry was the right choice for him. He received his Bachelor of Arts & Science Degree at Texas A&M University-Kingsville, and continued his education at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio where he earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. Upon receiving his D.D.S. he began working in San Benito, and has been here the last 8 years. In 2017 he was nominated by the Texas Academy of General Dentistry for the New Dentist of the Year Award. The tight-knit community of San Benito has welcomed Dr. Martinez and his family. “I have been at the office for 8 years now and have been welcomed with open arms by the community. My wife and I moved from San Antonio to the valley with high hopes and have made it our home. We had our children here and are blessed with a wonderful place to raise them,” says Martinez. He has also been blessed with a tremendous amount of support from his family. He is married to his high school sweetheart, Andrea, and has three children: Adrian (5), Xavier (2), and Isla (7 months). The Martinez Dental Group is focused on building on the success of the past and creating new goals for the future to better
serve our patients and the community. They have increased the community involvement from their office. “As an office we go out to local community events and fairs, sponsor many youth and church programs, and I am an active community member,” Martinez says. His business recently received the San Benito Chamber of Commerce “Business of the Month” Award for March. The dentistry provides general dentistry procedures, cosmetic dentistry, and traditional orthodontics, as well as Invisalign. Dr. Martinez would like to invite everyone in and out of the San Benito area to become a part of the Martinez Dental Group family. The office is open on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9am to 5pm. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, they offer extended office hours which are from 8am to 7pm. All new patients are welcomed, and they take all major dental insurances. They also offer different payment options. Dr. Martinez encourages everyone to check out their social media pages to see all the fun they’re having! ❦
985 S. Sam Houston Blvd. | San Benito, TX 78586 Phone: (956) 399-4312 | www.mtzdentalgroup.com
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How Sweet It Is... E
nrique Ornelas, Jr., owner of The La Especial Bakery, enjoys going to work early in the morning to ensure his bakery runs smoothly and produces the best quality pan dulce for the “merienda” or afternoon sweet treat for his loyal clientele. It all started back in 1939, when his father Enrique Ornelas, Sr. made the decision to rent the building and establish La Especial Bakery. Ornelas and his wife, Adela, started the bakery as a means of supporting their young family of ten. He made the pan dulce, and Founders of La Especial Bakery, Adela would take Enrique Ornelas, Sr. & wife Adela care of the store front. He gained experience making pan dulce from working alongside panaderos (bread makers). In 1944, fire from an adjoining building damaged his bakery. He had the fortunate opportunity of
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purchasing the building after the fire. Adela didn’t know that he had saved money in a burlap bag hidden in the house. He took that burlap bag to the bank to have it counted. To his surprise he actually had saved $450. With this money, they were able to purchase the building and the rest is history. The bakery still uses the original brick oven which was built in 1944. This oven is now only used for briskets and barbacoa. In the 1970’s, due to the high demand of sweetbread the Ornelas family had to purchase a larger more modern gas oven. Now they also have 2 huge stainless steel rotating ovens not only used for baking pan dulce, but also used for cooking briskets, barbacoa and even turkeys during Thanksgiving. Some Continued on page 20
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local favorites include: the Ornelas family with donations and empanadas, molletes, cuernos and many fundraisers to help repair the building. The traditional Mexican pan dulce, and let’s Ornelas family have not forget the popular always been generous wedding cookies called and have helped many pan de polvo. They people throughout the also bake cakes for all years, always supported special occasions. their church, schools, Unfortunately, in and the San Benito December 2017, an community. All their generosity and kindness unexpected tragedy forced the bakery to San Benito Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting. Shown above are has come full circle by Enrique Ornelas’ sons and daughter who help run the family business. close. Fire damaged blessing them in their Pictured (L-R): Enrique Ornelas, Jr., Marta Elena Ornelas, Martin the bakery after flames Ornelas and Back row: Miguel A. Ornelas time of need. escaped from a loose On April 6, 2018, brick in the original brick oven causing the roof to catch La Especial Bakery had their re-opening ribbon cutting on fire. Attempts to put out the fire by Enrique Ornelas, ceremony attended by many friends and dignitaries. More Jr. and his sons were futile and before help arrived the than 75 years ago and 3 generations later, the bakery bakery had so much damage that it had to be closed. Mr. business is still going strong and thriving, thanks to the Ornelas was hospitalized with smoke inhalation but after hard work, determination and unity that bonds the family a few days he recovered. of Enrique Ornelas, Jr. His parents, Enrique Ornelas, Sr. Since the building was too old and uninsurable, the and Adela who made sure that their sons and daughters Ornelas’ had the task of rebuilding. The San Benito learned the art of baking pan dulce. They left a legacy community, friends near and far, quickly rallied around to their children and grandchildren. Enrique and Adela 20
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On April 6, 2018, the San Benito Chamber of Commerce held a Ribbon Cutting at the re-opening of La Especial Bakery. Pictured Left to Right: Cameron County Clerk Sylvia Garza-Perez, Mayor Ben Gomez, Marta Elena Ornelas, Enrique Ornelas, Jr., Martin Ornelas and San Benito Chamber of Commerce Director Sandee Alvarez. Back row: Miguel A. Ornelas
were proud members of the San Benito Chamber. La Especial Bakery is a San Benito icon. Many people still have fond memories of their grandparents and parents taking them to the bakery and allowing them to pick their own sweet bread or cookies. Times have changed but the one thing you can always count on is the quality of service you receive. Most mornings Enrique Ornelas will be there to greet you with a smile. Customers of La Especial Bakery are happy that Enrique is well and back in business. La Especial Bakery - One of San Benito’s finest businesses that has stood the test of time. ❦
LAB EA SPECIAL K E RY 350 W. Robertson St San Benito, TX 78586 (956) 399-6829
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Reenactors depict Texas Indepen
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he sounds of firing muskets and cannon blasts filled the air on March 10th, 2018 in San Benito as part of the annual Texas Independence Celebration. Battle skirmishes and reenactments by living historians detail the Battle of the Alamo, Siege of Béxar and finally the final clash, the Battle of San Jacinto, where Texas was born as a republic, free from Mexico. Reenactors staged as both Texan and Mexican soldiers dress in period attire, ride on horseback and marched in make-shift formation for the battles. Defenders at the Alamo readied their muskets and cannon in anticipation of the looming battle. Many crouched behind the fortified wooden walls and hay bales, watching the Mexican troops in crisp blue coats moving towards them. Founded in 2007, Texas Heritage & Independence Celebration Association, Inc., (THICA), produces Texas Independence Day. The organization is dedicated to preserving and promoting the history of Texas, from the natives who first settled here to the numerous flags that have flown over Texas. The group works to bring the story of the Alamo to life in celebration of Texas Independence Day. The San Benito community comes together in an effort to remember the bravery of the Texans and Tejanos for our independence.
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It was on March 2, 1836, when Texas severed ties with Mexico and became a free and independent republic, when at the Town of Washington, 59 representatives voted into existence a sovereign nation: the Republic of Texas. Both Anglo and Tejano delegates declared to the world that they were
different: Neither Mexican or American, but to be known as Texians. The Independence Day reenactments honor the independent spirit of those early Texans and the sacrifices made for the independence that was won at the Battle of San Jacinto where the battle cry that day was “Remember the Alamo” and “Remember Goliad”; The battle lasted only 18 minutes and ended with the unconditional surrender of General Santa Anna to General Sam Houston in a victory that secured Texas’ Independence. We honor the heroes of the Texas Revolution such as Sam Houston, Davy Crockett, Jim Bowie and William Barrett Travis; and we honor the influential Tejanos such as Jose Antonio Navarro, Gregorio Esparza, and Juan Seguin who proudly risked death with the other signers of the Texas Declaration of Independence. An emotional portrayal of the Battle of the Alamo over the years has been performed for increasingly large number of spectators coming from across the Valley to witness the historic depiction. In one performance, the audience watched in
ndence Celebration in San Benito disbelief, and awed silence, as Davy Crockett was executed. In apparent disbelief at seeing the legendary hero gunned-down, the crowd remained reverently silent until the announcer asked for applause for the reenactors. The reenactors themselves come from across the Valley, and sometimes across the state, to participate in the memorable events. Event moderator described the scene where the defenders were holed-up in the Alamo in preparation for the advancing Mexican troops under the command of Gen. Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna. “The general ordered that no prisoners would be taken, which only deepened the resolve of the Alamo defenders to fight to the end,” moderator said. The event has grown significantly over the years, moving from Plaza de San Benito on Stenger Street, to the San Benito Fairgrounds to accommodate side attractions and a more
appropriate area to support an increasing audience base. In recent years, the organizers have added a sanctioned cook-off for a variety of dishes, an art show is featured and arts/crafts/corporate vendors join with food concessions to service the attendees. THICA endeavors to retell these stories and honor the memory of those who came before us, shaping the Texas we enjoy today. Texas Heritage & Independence Celebration Association, Inc., (THICA), helps educate and celebrate Texas culture and to encourage participation by promoting the history of our state through symposiums and community events that recreate this area’s rich and colorful history. For more information, please contact visit our website at www.happybirthdaytexas.com. ❦
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Museum Development Entering Second Phase By MARTHA McCLAIN Public Relations Director City of San Benito
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he City of San Benito is entering its second phase of as well as the public into the new facility that is being designed to serve more than a single purpose. development of the Cultural Heritage Museum. “Museums are more than just institutions and venues for Located at the historic Plaza de San Benito in the heart of downtown, the second phase will focus on the implementation entertainment. They are components that contribute to the local economy,” according to Mayor Ben Gomez. of exhibits, according to Museum Coordinator Luis Contreras. The City is optimistic that by “A custom designed layout is Located at the historic Plaza de adopting new concepts centered being created to showcase special exhibits that will tell the story of San Benito in the heart of downtown, around cultural tourism, the Texas through the history of San the second phase will focus on the community will begin to realize greater growth and development Benito,” he said. “It begins even before the town’s implementation of exhibits, according locally. “Our plan is to create a united founding, and will travel through the to Museum Coordinator Luis Contreras. Cultural Heritage District on this land of resacas and mesquite and the “A custom designed layout is being entire block on which the City’s new indigenous people of the Rio Grande, to the early settlers is San Benito, its created to showcase special exhibits Cultural Heritage Museum, the old innovative railroad system, and the that will tell the story of Texas through Library and the Community Building/ Auditorium are currently situated,” notables that rose to international the history of San Benito,” he said. he said. fame,” Contreras said. “With completion of construction of the facility, an important “The museum will also feature a musical heritage collection that preserves the state’s -- but most importantly -- the town’s goal has been reached by the City of San Benito,” he said of the journey, started in 2008 when the City was awarded a $1 pride in conjunto music,” Contreras said. The San Benito Cultural Heritage Museum will contribute to million grant from the US Department of Economic Development the developing cultural district by providing educational short and Administration to build a new facility to house the museums now long term exhibits, historical and musical programming, and events. existing in the City’s Community Building. The grant is being “The City of San Benito is continuing to work closely with matched by $800,000 by the City of San Benito. The 6,932-square-foot building is a multi-use facility which the museum partners in assessing the collections, designing and planning for the new museum, continue promoting the exhibits will house San Benito’s rich 107-year old history. It will include 5,263 square feet of exhibit and lobby area, and its concrete capital campaign and outreach efforts,” Contreras said. Local officials hosted an Open House at the new San Benito footprint measures 7,033 square feet, leaving room for outdoor Cultural Heritage Museum on March 1, welcoming area officials activities. ❦
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New Cold Room Inspection Facility Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at Free Trade International Bridge From the Office of Cameron County Judge Eddie Treviño, Jr.
Los Indios, TX - Cameron County will hold a ribbon cutting on Friday, April 20, 2018, for the new Cold Room Inspection Facility at the Free Trade International Bridge at Los Indios. The Free Trade International Bridge first opened in November of 1992. It is owned by Cameron County, City of San Benito and the City of Harlingen. The bridge connects the United StatesMexico border cities of Los Indios, Texas and Lucio Blanco, Tamaulipas. Free Trade International Bridge can accommodate pedestrians, passenger vehicles, and commercial vehicles traffic. Based on its significantly shorter wait times and prime location, it can be considered one of the most accessible crossings in the Rio Grande Valley. Congressman Filemon Vela stated, “I have enjoyed working with federal, state, and local groups and agencies for the past two years on the new refrigerated facility at Los Indios Bridge. The cold room inspection facility will elevate Cameron County’s presence within the international trade industry, while providing more business opportunities and growth throughout South Texas.” County Judge Eddie Trevino, Jr. stated, “working together across city limits, county lines, federal agencies, and with our neighbors in Mexico is so important to our prosperity. This is a project that will benefit the county and the region as a whole. This cold storage facility will enable shippers to move their product more efficiently through this port.” The facility is just a few miles away from vital locations such as the Port of Harlingen, Harlingen Industrial Park, Interstate 69
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and San Benito Industrial Park. The designated overweight corridor, State Highway 509, connects the Free Trade International Bridge to the Port of Harlingen and the Port of Brownsville. Mayor Boswell said, “this is a great collaborative economic development project between the City of San Benito, Cameron County and the City of Harlingen. The leadership of these communities came together to construct this Cold Storage Facility that will attract jobs and commerce from the produce industry. This is a great day for our communities.” “We expect the new cold storage inspection facility at the Free Trade International Bridge at Los Indios will bring about a boost in our local economy,” said San Benito Mayor Ben Gomez. “We anticipate the creation of spin-off development that will bring about an increase in commercial traffic and new business support services, he said. “This project also featured an opportunity for the cities of San Benito and Harlingen with Cameron County to work jointly on a plan to market our bridges. It was, and continues to be, a positive experience for our governmental entities that we hope will expand even further in the future,” Gomez said. The project is a partnership between Cameron County, Custom’s and Border Protection (CBP), General Services Administration (GSA), the City of Harlingen and the City of San Benito. The total cost of the facility is approximately $525,000.00. The total cost of the new facility was funded 50% by Cameron County and 25% by the City of Harlingen and City of San Benito, respectively. ❦
Local Dignitaries at Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Cold Room Inspection Facility include: Congressman Filemon Vela, Cameron County Judge Eddie Trevino, Jr., Cameron County Commissioners, City of Harlingen Mayor Chris Boswell, San Benito Mayor Ben Gomez, San Benito Commissioner Rene Villafranco and City of Matamoros Representative Arturo Gomez.
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Americas Best Value Inn & Suites Expressway 83 (Downtown)
Lone Star Inn Expressway 83 (Medical Center, Harlingen)
otel located at 175 W. Expressway 83 (exit Sam Houston Blvd.) (right behind the Valero Gas Station) in San Benito, Texas. This hotel has luxurious, comfortable accomodations to suit your individual taste. Available are guest rooms equipped with microwave, refrigerator, hair dryer, ironing board, recliners/ loveseat, 37” Flat screen remote TV with HBO-ESPN-CNN. Two telephones, AT&T in-room long distance. Also available are The Businessman’s favorite King Room, King Room with Whirlpool Bath, the Popular Two Bed Family units and Kid Suites with King or two Queen beds. Other amenities include an outdoor pool, a fitness center and business office. Free Continental Breakfast is included for guests. This hotel is situated from the busy city traffic and noise, close to restaurants and with a service station right next door. For reservations, please call (956) 361-2222. www.abvi.com
his hotel located at 2340 W. Expressway 83 (exit Paso Real/FM 509). Located on Paso Real (FM 509/Helen Moore Road) in San Benito, Texas. Lone Star Inn has beautiful rooms with King, Double Queen and Jacuzzi suites or Whirlpool tubs available. Non-smoking rooms are available. Other amenities include, full cable (HBO, ESPN), microwave, refrigerator. Desk/work area, data ports, free local calls, fax and copy services. Relax in the beautiful outdoor pool. Ice machines, free parking. A free Continental Breakfast is a great way to start your day! Please call for reservations at (956) 361-4404. Close to Medical Center. (Harlingen) Conveniently located off expressway, for leisure and corporate travelers, minutes away from Harlingen Medical, Valley Baptist Medical, Veteran Health Care Center and Harlingen International Airport. Amenities - On-site Laundry, Free Hi-Speed WiFi and Wired Internet. All rooms have 40” flat screen TV’s and Full Business Center. Las Palmas Event Center - Large event space, fits all your small gathering needs. Our Hotel is designed and located for your convenience. Visit our website is www.lonestarinnsanbenito.com
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Guest Inn Business 77 (Medical Center, Harlingen)
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an Benito’s newest hotel located at 2597 W. Business 77, San Benito, Texas, (exit Paso Real, on Business 77 between San Benito and Harlingen). This newly-built hotel opened August 2010 and is closely situated to area hospitals, restaurants and area attractions. This hotel features 40 new and beautiful guest rooms, with all ground floor King size rooms, single or double King size bedrooms, kitchenettes and Extended Stay Suites. Jacuzzi suites, adjoining 3 Bed Suites are also available. Rooms have 37” flat screen LCD T.V.’s with cable, full force multiple shower heads. Kitchenettes have microwave, refrigerator, coffee maker, and stoves. Irons, hair dryers and alarm clock radios are included rooms. The large beautiful pool which is centered in front of the rooms has whirlpool seats. ADA compliance handicapped rooms. Other amenities include On-site guest laundry, free Hi-Speed Internet (Wi-Fi), Full Business center with copier and fax and a huge 1200 sq. ft. Banquet Hall which holds 80 people. Free complimentary Hot Waffle breakfast. Complimentary transportation available to major airports, Valley Baptist Center, Harlingen Medical Center and the Veterans Health Care Center. Please call for reservations or more information at (956) 276-4457 or visit our website at guestinnsanbenito.com or E-mail: guestinnsanbenito@hotmail. com
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Texas Inn West Expressway 83 (Medical Center, Harlingen)
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exas Inn - San Benito is conveniently located off the expressway at 1451 W. Expressway 83 in San Benito, Texas. Directions to this hotel traveling Southeast take Exit 21 for Spur 486/Williams Rd./ Ratliff St, and traveling Northwest take Exit 22 for F.M. 509/Paso Real and make a U-turn. This 30 room hotel can accommodate any number of guests by offering King Bedrooms, Double Bedrooms & Kitchenette Suites with either option of Smoking or NonSmoking. All rooms include the following amenities: Free WiFi, Flat Screen TVs/Cable, Microwave/Refrigerator/Freezer, Iron/ Ironing Board, Hair Dryer & A/C. Parking is free to all guest, and Semi-Truck parking is available as well. The widely popular restaurant Longhorn Cattle Company is within walking distance from the hotel. Discounted rates for Weekly & Monthly stays are available. Please visit our website at www.TexasInnSanBenito.com or call (956) 399-3891 for any questions about rates, availability or booking a reservation.
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City approves AEP request for emergency staging area
By Martha McClain Public Relations Director City of San Benito
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an Benito City Commissioners have approved a license agreement for a temporary staging area for AEP Texas for use in the event of a natural disaster. AEP is currently constructing a new $23 million Service Center at 1501 E. Business 77 and is seeking use of adjacent land, now designated as the San Benito Fairgrounds, to stage its vehicles, equipment and personnel during emergency situations such as hurricanes, according to Art Garza, the City’s director of parks and recreation. “AEP’s service area experiences emergency conditions from time-to-time which interrupt or threaten to interrupt electric service to many of its customers, and which often require AEP to mobilize special efforts to respond to such emergencies to avoid disruptions or to quickly restore electrical service,” according to the agreement approved by the City Commission. The need for a strong working relationship with AEP is important to ensure efficient communication and action in the
event of a serious situation, officials here said. This action will allow AEP to be prepared for all eventualities, and it is a pleasure for the City to be able to offer that resource to them, Mayor Ben Gomez said. The three-year agreement calls for AEP to maintain a commercially reasonable amount of comprehensive liability insurance covering both personal injury, death and property damage. Meanwhile construction of the 87,900-square foot AEP facility continues. The new facility, upon completion, will bring 110 jobs with it, consolidating offices from five other area locations, officials have said. The center is located off U.S. Business 77 near the former airport and will feature a concrete entrance that will intersect with Business 77 and Stookey Road. Work on the new road is underway. ❦
AEP Emergency Staging Area
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San Benito “Our Hometown” Community Magazine | Spring 2018
City receives $45,000 Museum Grant from AEP Texas By Martha McClain Public Relations Director City of San Benito
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he City of San Benito has received a $45,000 grant from the AEP Foundation to help present the story of the community’s rich cultural heritage. The funds will help facilitate the development of interpretive exhibits in the newly completed San Benito Cultural Heritage Museum, according to Museum Coordinator Luis Contreras. “We thank the AEP Foundation for their generous gift and will begin working on the utilization of those funds to benefit the museum which will complement backing from other fundraising efforts as well as the City’s support of the facility. Our Mayor and City Commissioners are to be commended for their foresight into this overall museum project,” Contreras said. “The following phase will focus on the exhibits that will aesthetically capture and present the city’s history and musical culture,” he said. “Visitors will be taken through a timeline of historical events that give the city of San Benito its unique mark in Texas history. They will learn about the early days along the banks of the Rio Grande – a time when the lands were inhabited by indigenous people and the ‘resacas’ were naturally filled with waters from the river,” Contreras said. “Visitors will learn about early settlers and pioneers, land grants, the resaca and the railroad systems, the founding of San Benito and its people, and the notables of the city. This will transition to the life and musical legacy of Freddy Fender, and finally into the Texas conjunto music hall of fame and museum, which will provide an insight to the history of this unique south Texas folk music – conjunto, the fathers of conjunto music, the inductees which have preserved the unique sound of conjunto music, the radio personalities that promoted it, and the commercial industry that produced and pressed the vinyl records,” the museum coordinator said. The 6,932-square-foot museum building is a multi-use facility which will house San Benito’s rich 107-year old history, Contreras said. It includes 5,263 square feet of exhibit and lobby area, and its concrete footprint measures 7,033 square feet, leaving room for outdoor activities. The exhibits are anticipated to consist of interpretive signage, enlarged
photo images and graphics, electronic kiosks, LCD monitors, and exhibit cases for artifacts and textiles, according to Contreras. San Benito’s new Cultural Heritage Museum is a part of the City’s plan to utilize local art, music, and visitors as a means of creating economic development. “Museums are more than just institutions and venues for entertainment. They are components that contribute to the local economy,” said Mayor Ben Gomez in his address during the March 1 Open House that showcased the new facility. “Our plan is to create a united Cultural Heritage District on this entire block on which the City’s new Cultural Heritage Museum, the old Library and the Community Building/Auditorium are currently situated,” he said. The grant will facilitate the City’s efforts in promoting the City’s rich heritage. “Several examples of the City’s cultural assets include being the hometown of Grammy Award winning artist Freddy Fender (born Baldemar Huerta), whose legacy is notable for being one of the first Mexican American crossover successes in the music industry. San Benito is also the hometown of three-time Olympic gold medalist Bobby J. Morrow, who led the American sprint team at the 1956 Summer Olympics in Melbourne. Also, conjunto music, which is the folk music of South Texas, was born is San Benito, TX. Narciso Martinez, a native son of San Benito, is recognized as the father of conjunto music,” he said. Local officials hosted an Open House at the new San Benito Cultural Heritage Museum on March 1, welcoming area officials as well as the public into the new facility. “Museums are more than just institutions and venues for entertainment. They are components that contribute to the local economy,” said Mayor Ben Gomez in his address during the event. The journey started in 2008 when the City was awarded a $1 million grant from the US Department of Economic Development Administration to build a new facility that will house the museums now existing in the City’s Community Building. The grant is being matched by $800,000 by the City of San Benito. Spring 2018 | San Benito “Our Hometown” Community Magazine
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Heavin Trail Paving Complete By MARTHA McCLAIN Public Relations Director City of San Benito
Heavin Resaca Trail and the W.H. Heavin Amphitheater serve the community through healthful function and aesthetic appeal. The facilities opened in 2007. The 10-foot wide trail rehabilitation has been paved and project is now complete. City of San Benito street crews took the trail down to its base for re-stabilization with added caliche and lime for a solid foundation. Paving is complete on both sides of the Resaca from Stenger to Business 77 according to Public Works Director Adan Gonzalez. Amenities at Heavin Memorial Park include: • An asphalt-surfaced 2.76 mile walking/jogging trail • Two fishing piers • One remote control model boat platform • A bird and butterfly garden and viewing area • Unstructured open space • Playground equipment
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San Benito “Our Hometown” Community Magazine | Spring 2018
• Benches and picnic tables • Volleyball court • Playground areas • Exercise stations • Open-air amphitheater • Landscaped public park The David Heavin Family Foundation generously donated the funds that allowed the City to create and enhance the Trail, Amphitheater and Park. A second donation to the City from the Heavin Family was that of funds to create the V. Glen White Memorial Pavilion located near the Expressway Frontage Road. Yet another Heavin Foundation project came in the form of gift for the construction of a restroom complex to serve the entire park area. The facility includes storage space for park equipment and a concession area.
Spring 2018 | San Benito “Our Hometown� Community Magazine
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Sponsored by The City of San Benito
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San Benito “Our Hometown� Community Magazine | Spring 2018