NEWS HEADLINES
BORDER WARNING FOR STUDENT TRAVELERSBy LOGAN HAWKES
Port Isabel-South Padre PRESS
With the start of the spring season this week on South Padre Island, U.S. State Department and U.S. Consulate officials are warning students to avoid excursions into drug war plagued border cities in country-regionMexico including Reynosa and Matamoros.
The U.S. Consulate office in Reynosa was closed last week and personnel recalled from the border city after a rash of violent outbreaks between rival cartel gangs and with the Mexican military left at least 24 dead in just under a week. A special travel advisory was issued Wednesday warning of sporadic outbreaks of violence and advising U.S. citizens to exercise extreme caution when crossing into Mexico from Valley land ports.
Tour companies and other businesses that rely on spring break crowds in South Texas are concerned that the travel advisory may deter some students from traveling to Texas this year. Yet others are saying the widespread violence all across Mexico may cause students to shy away from favorite and popular Mexican destinations and opt to spend time on the lower Texas coast instead. Most agree, however, that heightened violence in cities like Reynosa and Matamoros is cause for alarm and advice spring breakers planning a border excursion to exercise extreme caution.
In the month of January alone, over 1,000 live have been lost to the growing violence, many of them innocent bystanders including women and children. Last week, 24 violent deaths were confirmed in four border cities across the river from the Rio Grande Valley and tension continues to mount as the drug war escalates to historic proportions. On Thursday a grenade attack on a Reynosa police station was reported and more automatic gunfire erupted in "hot spots" throughout the city.
In January, during a special community wide tourist reception for winter visitors in the small and quaint town of Progreso, drug violence between the Mexican military and drug gangs erupted about a block away from where thousands of U.S. seniors were gathered to enjoy a “Welcome Back Party” being staged in their honor. While no U.S. citizen was injured in the incident, it serves as wake-up call to the potential of death or injury to visiting tourists. Last week two teenagers were shot in Matamoros neighborhood after the military opened fire at a SUV believed to contain drug gang members on a crowded street. And such violence is not limited to certain neighborhoods or areas but is spread far and wide across most of the border towns.
If venturing across the border remains a priority for students this year, border officials advise not to travel across the border on your own or in small groups. A better plan would be to contact an experienced tour company and travel across only as a large organized group - and avoid getting 'senseless' and subject to `accidents' that can easily happen.
In addition to the threat of violence, experts warn to keep in mind that a valid passport is now required to get back into the U.S., and it is possible that Texas officials will be on the look out for public intoxication violations once you reenter the placecountry-regionU.S.
There are so many great destinations and so many things to do on this side of the border, officials are advising it would be wise to avoid border crossing this year.
LOCAL AUTHOR WANTS DREAMWORKS PROJECT By LOGAN HAWKESPort Isabel-South Padre PRESS
Not everyone can live the life of high adventure traveling and working abroad. Not everyone has a story to tell so real and so dazzling and filled with intrigue that others would enjoy reading it. But for author Mike Hancock, now a resident of South Padre Island, living a life of adventure was simply a normal way of life, and the experiences he accumulated and the life treasures he collected are woven within the words of his new book, “Experiences Abroad in Developing and Sometimes Troubling Countries”, the true-life story of his years living in Central America and other parts of the Third World.
So adventuresome and so intriguing is Hancock's story that the book has been submitted bu the pubisher to DreamWorks Studio for film script and development consideration. Steven Spielberg's DreamWorks has produced stars such as Tom Hanks, Tom Cruise, Julia Roberts, and the Shrek cast. Their films have won numerous Oscars.
The book centers around an Englishman's experiences, including marriage and starting a family, in the former colony of British Honduras, and also time spent in Guatemala, still at odds with Britain over the colony's sovereignty. Leaving roots there and moving to the Mosquito Coast of Nicaragua and introduced to flying a tail dragger, the adventures intensify. After six eventful in Nicaragua and an assignment in El Salvador during an uprising, the reader will geta feel for life in a real Third World environment. While living there, Hancock commuted weekly for two years to the mountainous region of Nicaragua where the Sandinistas were beginning an insurgency to overthrow Somoza. After twenty-four years in Central America, Hancock established his family in Texas and later relocated to the Island where he still maintains contact with the now independent Belize. His life adventures abroad have also taken him to different environments in Asia with experiences in Burma, Vietnam and India.
You can find out more about Hancock's book at http://www.amazon.com/Experiences-Developing-Sometimes-Troubled-Countries/dp/1605638498.
PI COMMISSIONERS DISCUSS BAG BANNINGBy LOGAN HAWKES
Port Isabel-South Padre PRESS
Port Isabel City Commissioners listened to a report from City Manager Ed Meza Tuesday evening during their regular meeting about the perils and environmental hazards of plastic shopping bags and how to best proceed in a way to effectively reduced liter and damages caused by discarded bags.
“Educating the public about the environmental concerns of plastic bags seems to be the priority to any plan the city may adopt regarding restrictive use,” Meza said. “Any campaign designed to reduce the negative effects should start with education.”
Meza said he met with marketing representatives from H-E-B and other local retailers recently to discuss the problem and that there is a consensus on the best way to proceed with measures to limit environmental concerns.
“I spoke with one of the largest manufacturers of plastic shopping bags recently and this company employees about a thousand people in their StateplaceTexas facility alone. Banning the use of plastic bags would have a far reaching impact on such things as jobs and the economy, and this has to be a consideration as we look for solutions to plastic bag problems,” Meza added. “If the end user were to understand and be sensitive to littering the environment with these bags, the problem wouldn't be as bad as it is now.”
Meza says he discussed signage on shopping carts with retailers and a comprehensive campaign to make safe disposal a priority for store customers. If the store's customers would understand the importance of the issue, he says, the problem wouldn't be as bad as it is right now.
The Commission agreed that their research into the problem and possible solutions is not far enough along for the city to simply pass an ordinance banning the use of plastic bags. Like the `Don't Mess With StateplaceTexas' Litter campaign, educating the public is paramount to finding a lasting solution.
In other business Tuesday night, the Commission approved on second and final reading an ordinance that establishes a Municipal Court Building Security Fund. The commission also approved a resolution supporting ARDC Port Isabel on an application for Housing Tax Credits to be filed with the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs. Commissioners also adopted salary amendments in the amount of $15,995.00 to the 2009-2010 Library Department annual budget for the raises given for the Library
taking over EDC Administration responsibilities.
MY THOUGHTS ON A QUIET SUNDAY EVENINGBy TINA POUCHER
Special to the PRESS
I really should be painting today…the Laguna Madre Art Show is next weekend, but today I'm in a thoughtful, writing mood. Winter will soon be gone, and I'm already looking forward to our grandchildren calling to say “Mimi, I'm flying in on Southwest Airlines at 5:30, can you or Papaw pick me up?” The answer is always…. “Of course we can pick you up!” The next statement is usually….and can we go straight back to Port Isabel and eat at Pirate's Landing….I'm hungry for fried shrimp?”
After filling up on fried shrimp, we head back to our house where they drag their luggage, up the stairs…. where they are greeted by one very large, happy, Doberman Pinscher, named Skye, who delights in their presence…actually she thinks they are her presents!
When they were babies, I taught them to swim and enjoy the pleasures of water in our pool. Since we retired here, my husband, Ralph, has taught them how to fish. He shared with them the lesson of catch and release…keep only what you will eat. Ralph teaches them about; wearing a good sunscreen, the magic of Polarized sunglasses for fishing, the danger of sharp hooks and the importance of not removing their life jackets until safely back on the dock. Ralph's own father taught him, `the fishing trip is not over `til the gear is cleaned and stashed away neatly“ and he also adds….wash the salt spray out of the boat.
For years, we owned a `46 foot Bertram called “The Blue`s Chaser.” It was aptly named, for it did indeed chase away the blues of a hard working couple of guys from Dallas. Ralph and his partner, Don ,loved tournament fishing…and they sure caught their share of Blue Marlin.
One year, as newcomer's to TIFT, the Texas International Fishing Tournament held locally, The Blue's Chaser Fishing Team, won honors with a “Grand Slam.” For those who don't know the lingo, a Grand Slam is when you catch one, of each variety of saltwater billfish during a tournament.
On that occasion, a young, green-but-lucky angler, Michael Ewing was sitting in the fishing chair and made the first catch of the day. The team wouldn't let him out of the fighting chair, because, if one angler catches all the fish, the points are higher for the boat . That was a lucky year all around, as our daughter Christie, was asked to be the TIFT Sweetheart, adding more good memories to our photo albums.
We have since sold the Blue's Chaser. Now, when Ralph wants to take the family Offshore fishing, he hires someone like Bryan Ray. He knows they will almost always return with fish and big grins all around. He loves sharing in that moment when a new angler is waiting for a possible catch. The reel starts screaming and then the captain yells….“FISH ON!” He delighted, watching our grandaughter Ashlea, as the mate strapped her into a pink, lady angler's fish-fighting belt. She stood her ground, solidly like the pro, Marsha Bierman, as she cranked in her catch.
The next year while our grandson, Corbin and Ralph were bay fishing, I received a call from Corbin, asking me to grab my camera and come outside on the dock to take photos. There he stood, sweat running down his face as he held up that 21 lb. Kingfish like it was a precious bar of gold. Since then he has experienced a lot of other firsts while visiting us in Port Isabel. He learned how to ride a surf board at Schlitterbahn without losing his swim trunks, going on a trail ride on horseback down the beach. He also won a GO-Cart race, racing his Papaw by Louie's Backyard. On another day, I borrowed a metal detector for him to try his hand at that….he was almost to China when he gave up…..we left the beach with only sand in our pockets.
The youngest of the 3 G-Kids is 11 year old Lindsey. She always wants to paint with me while she's here. At the age of 4, she wanted her own easel and a canvas. I put a kid sized apron over her clothes, laid out the paints for her she was on her way to making her first painting, on her own. She always signs them and hangs them for all to see. Who knows, maybe one day, she will turn out to be a great artist? I always wanted to be an artist when I grew up. It's fun to share this interest with her.
So why am I sharing all of this with people I don't even know? I have no clue, except to simply say….Enjoy those little ones while you may! For soon enough, they will have boyfriends, girlfriends, colleges to attend…and weddings to plan and their lives will be so busy, you (we) may not see them as often as we would like.
There is a quote I like very much, by Stephen R. Covey…. so I will leave you with that.
El Niño Ends Drought, Will Bring Summer StormsBy LOGAN HAWKES
Port Isabel-South Padre PRESS
Following in the footsteps of the Valley, the last two years of severe drought in the remainder of Texas are finally over thanks to an El Niño event that has pumped volumes of tropical moisture into the state over recent months, ending an agriculture disaster and averting severe water resource shortages in a growing state that is demanding more water volume each year.
But what the appearance of the current if not faltering El Niño event has brought in the way of weather relief could be shadowed by more intense and frequent tropical weather as El Niño retreats and normal weather patterns return to the tropics.
For those of us over 40, trying to get a handle on all this El Niño and La Niña science and how it affects the complex and ever-changing climatology of the Gulf region is challenging at best and confusing at worst.
From a technical and scientific standpoint, El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO), is a climate pattern that occurs across the tropical Pacific Ocean on average every five years, but over a period which varies from three to seven years. ENSO is best-known for its association with floods, droughts and other weather disturbances in many regions of the world, which vary with each event.
ENSO is composed of an oceanic component, called El Niño (or La Niña), which is characterized by warming or cooling of surface waters in the tropical eastern Pacific Ocean, and an atmospheric component, the Southern Oscillation, which is characterized by changes in surface pressure in the tropical western Pacific. The two components are coupled: when the warm oceanic phase (known as El Niño) is in effect, surface pressures in the western Pacific are high, and when the cold phase is in effect (La Niña), surface pressures in the western Pacific are low.
From a practical standpoint, this means that our weather in Texas, a small part of a broader global region that is affected by ENSO, an go from very dry to very wet and from very hot to very cold over the course of a few years time, depending on the current ENSO climate influence - either El Niño (or La Niña.
If you got lost in that explanation, here's the bottom line: the El Niño event we have been experiencing since last summer has brought abundant rainfall to the placePlaceNameRio Grande PlaceTypeValley. As the El Niño grew more influential, more tropical moisture pumped into not only the Valley, but much of placeStateTexas. That, say scholars at PlaceNameTexas PlaceNameA&M PlaceTypeUniversity, is why StateplaceTexas, including the Valley, has resurfaced from the drought and now enjoys ample ground and surface water to supply the demand.
An added benefit for coastal residents is the current El Niño event also helped to slow down last summer's tropical storm development, which was predicted to be more active than normal. The downside to this is that when El Niño loses its hold over tropical climatology and wanes in strength and influence, tropical weather development will most likely return to normal cyclic levels. And that can even be complicated by a building La Niña pattern which could make storms more frequent and severe.
“The Atlantic Basin has been under a more active and favorable time for tropical development for the last 3-4 years,” says Philip Klotzbach with the Tropical Meteorology Project at Colorado State University, an expert at tropical weather forecasting and modeling. “We can point to Hurricanes Ike and Dolly on the placeStateTexas coast as examples of what can happen during these broader periods of cyclic-prediction. We may have had an even busier tropical season last year if it wasn't for the development of El Niño in the late spring.”
In a telephone interview Friday, Klotzbach confirmed current models are indicating a busy tropical season will return this summer in the placePlaceNameAtlantic PlaceTypeBasin region. He says forecasters are currently working on the latest prediction models and how a fading El Niño might affect how many and how severe storms may become in the Gulf region this year.
Until then, he advises, coastal residents should plan early for the approaching tropical season and get their storms plans in order. Regardless whether this year proves to be a `good' or `bad' year for storms, he says residents should be prepared for the worst.
TELLING OUR STORIESBy LOGAN HAWKES
Port Isabel-South Padre PRESS
It doesn't take a historian to realize that Port Isabel's proximity to the U.S.-Mexican border and her rich and colorful past has made for a rich and diverse history. But chances are good there's a lot about local history in placeSouth Texas that you haven't heard or read, and losing that history is akin to forgetting your own identity.
Times were tough along the lower coast during many periods of our past history, but perhaps a bit more challenging during both the placeStateTexas revolution and the ensuing years of the Mexican-American War that would follow.
The Museums of Port Isabel and the Laguna Madre Museum Foundation offer a special "Telling Our Stories" historical program each month to further local awareness of our history, and this week's “Telling Our Stories” Series focuses on those dark and daring years between 1835 and 1848. It happens Thursday evening, Feb. 25, at the Treasures of the placePlaceTypeGulf PlaceTypeMuseum, addressStreet317 E. Railroad Ave. at 7 p.m.
Rod Bates, a historian and owner of Antiques on Tarnava, will present “The War for Independence & Mexican Revolution.” His presentation will show how both events influenced Port Isabel and the Laguna Madre area. There will be an exhibition on display in the placePlaceNameHistorical PlaceTypeMuseum of “The War for Independence & Mexican Revolution” documents and artifacts. Both Museums will be open for guests to tour on the evening of the presentation.
Drinks and Refreshments will be served. No Admission fee.
The Museums of Port Isabel and the Laguna Madre Museum Foundation's goals are to educate and preserve our local history. With the help from supporters and the public, we can continue to preserve our past for future generations.
For more information call (956) 943-7602 or email jrivera@copitx.com - ggodines@copitx.com. Museums of Port Isabel is located at addressStreet317 E. Railroad Ave. in Port Isabel.
NEW SIGN GREETS LAGUNA MADRE VISITORSBy LOGAN HAWKES
Port Isabel-South Padre PRESS
First impressions are lasting impressions they say, and that may be the reasoning behind the Town of Laguna Vista's unveiling of a new entrance sign to greet visitors to the Laguna Madre area as they travel down Hwy. 100 enroute to the surf and the sand.
As big as life and as colorful as the bayside village itself, the new sign can be seen now by any and all who pass near its location on the corner of Hwy. 100 and FM 510. But a special Ribbon Cutting Ceremony scheduled for Thursday, Febraury 18 at 5:30 p.m. will mark the official dedication.
Laguna Vista Mayor Susie Houston and the Board of Aldermen will participate in the ceremony to celebrate the completion of the new sign. The public is invited to attend.
'This new entrance sign represents the beginning of many exciting initiatives for our
community," says CityplaceHouston. "We're currently working to finalize new commercial development for Highway 100, and also the construction of a helipad that will facilitate improved emergency medical access for our residents. In addition, we will soon have a comprehensive master plan for Laguna Vista, which will assure we are fully prepared to take advantage of the growth that will take place when the proposed second access causeway to placeSouth Padre Island is constructed, including increased traffic flow on Hwy. 510."
The new entrance sign was constructed in a partnership between the Town of placeCityLaguna Vista, the Community Development Corporation (CDC), and the South Padre Island Golf Club. The Board of Aldermen approved the recommendation of the CDC to partially use sales taxes proceeds to replace the existing sign that had been in place for over 40 years. The Town staff, led by City Manager Rolando Vela, worked closely with the SPI Golf Club on the planning, layout, construction and lighting of the new sign.
Elected officials from the surrounding communities will be participating in the ceremony. U.S. Representative Solomon Ortiz, State Senator Eddie Lucio, Jr., County Judge Carlos Cascos, and County Commissioner David Garza have already confirmed their attendance.
PI COMMISSIONERS HEAR WIND TURBINE PRESENTATIONBy LOGAN HAWKES
Port Isabel-South Padre PRESS
Could a day be coming soon when Port Isabel and placeSouth Padre Island's need for electricity could be greatly satisfied or reduced by a series of small, individual wind turbines that silently and diligently perform their jobs while we sleep and work and play?
At the regular Port Isabel City Commission meeting Tuesday night commissioner's listened to a presentation by City Manager Ed Meza that may prove to be the first step in a long series of steps to help the city become more energy independent in the years ahead.
In the presentation, Commissioners were told local businessman Jay Carlson has proposed a pilot project involving the use of a Windspire wind turbine at the Port Isabel Library to help the city save on energy usage and to possibly pave the way for additional turbines that could eventually lead to less electrical power consumption for both the city government and eventually for local businesses and residents.
“It's all about `going green' in the years ahead and figuring out a better way to utilize clean energy while saving money in the long run,” said Port Isabel Mayor Joe Vega about the Windspire project. “While installing one small wind turbine is not going to solve all our energy requirements, this project represents a chance for the city to determine just how effective the system would be and how that might relate in energy savings for the years ahead.”
The Windspire system utilizes a small vertical wind turbine unlike the larger, propeller-driven wind turbines you might see in a commercial wind farm. The slender Windshire measures about 30-feet tall and uses a silent vertical axis wind power appliance that looks as much like a yard ornament as it does an energy generator.
“The unit is relatively small and can be installed just about anywhere the wind blows,” says Vega. “This is not like those tall, powerful windmills with multiple propellers. These turbines were designed by use in business and residential applications and can easily be installed in crowded neighborhoods or business districts.”
Carlson, who is the local dealer for the Windspire System, approached the City with the idea “to demonstrate the system's efficiency and value”. The cost of the pilot project would be covered by Carlson. The idea is if the system proves effective and trouble free, it may well be adapted for use at other city facilities like City Hall.
“We (the city) have been looking at green projects over the last couple of years,” says Vega, pointing to the Port Isabel recycling center as an example. “The idea is to be more environmentally responsible and at the same time more energy efficient in the years ahead.”
At only 30 feet tall and 4 feet wide, the Windspire 1.2 kW wind turbine is distinguished by its propeller-free design and nearly soundless operation. Designed for use where you live and work, the Windspire is currently powering homes, small businesses, schools, museums, and parks all across the country.
The 1.2 kW (1200 watt) Windspire will produce approximately 2000 kilowatt hours (kWh) per year in 12 mph average winds. In Port Isabel and on the placeIsland, that could be even more.
“One turbine unit isn't going to power the entire library, for example, but it will help the facility to use less energy off the grid. This would represent a savings to the city,” Vega added.
TIGERS, FLEUR-DE-LYS AND CHOCOLATES PLEASE - and President's Day!By LOGAN HAWKES
Port Isabel-South Padre PRESS
For the love of Saint Valentine, this week and next South Texans will be celebrating three specialty holidays - Valentine's Day (Sunday), Fat Tuesday or Mardi Gras (Tuesday), and the start to the Chinese New Year (Sunday) - the Year of the Tiger. Depending on whom you are and where you're from, it's a time for love, for lent and for good luck in the New Year.
Confusing isn't it?
Dr. Stella Begar at the UTPA College of Arts and Humanities says it may not be rare but “it is unusual” that all three cultural observances fall in the same calendar week. While Feb. 14 is always the traditional day for Valentine's Day celebrations in placeNorth America, Fat Tuesday falls on the day before Ash Wednesday, which varies from year to year depending on when the Easter holidays fall. The same is true for the Chinese New Year which begins ever year at the first New Moon of February.
“In this respect, all three of the observances falling in the same week is a bit unusual,” she says.
So what are South Texans to do? Is it a time for sweethearts and chocolates, fortune cookies and egg rolls, or Bourbon and beads?
“It depends a lot on your heritage and your preferences,” says the cultures expert. “If you're French or from Louisiana or French Canadian regions, then Mardi Gras is a must-do event. Those with ties to the Chinese culture will be celebrating the New Year for two weeks beginning on Feb. 14. But most Americans will be passing out greeting cards, flowers and chocolates this weekend in observance of Valentine's Day.”
By the way, Valentine's Day, according to some, got its start in either country-regionFrance or country-regionItaly during the days of the placeRoman Empire. As the story goes, St. Valentine, a Jesuit Priest, disregarded Emperor Cladius II's decree that young men were not to be married because it might interfere with their military careers and conducted marriage ceremonies for young lovers in private. When placeCityRome discovered what the priest was doing, he was arrested and eventually put to death. Legend has it that flowers and candies were given each year on the anniversary of his death to remember the “Saint of Love” for his dedication to love and marriage.
As far as Mardi Gras is concerned - known as Shrove Tuesday - it, too, had origins in France and was a day that the faithful could indulge in the pleasures of this life before having to sacrifice some of them in honor of the Lenten season. Parades were staged, wine was poured like water and the French would engage in “irresponsible civil interaction” before turning from their (wicked) ways and becoming devout for the 40 days leading up to Easter.
As confusing as it all may seem, Begar says a more modern interpretation of the holidays falling in the same week might be to indulge in chocolates this week, which we could then give up for the Lenten season. Add to that a healthy and traditional Chinese meal in honor of the New Year, and South Texans can celebrate all three without ever leaving home.
SHINDIG RAISES FUNDS FOR BEACH ENVIRONMENTBy LOGNAN HAWKES
Port Isabel-South Padre PARADE
The weather couldn't have been any more perfect Saturday when members and friends of the Surfrider Foundation's South Texas Chapter converged at Louie's Backyard for their annual fundraiser “Shindig”, a multifaceted event that involved art, music, environment and fun for the family.
It started early afternoon when noted artists John Olvey, Lisa Porter, Zach Richardson and Tommy Shilts pulled out their paint and began creating art on canvas made of surfboards, lawn chairs and flower pots. The unique art was part of raising funds for the many environmental and conservation programs supported by the group.
Nearby, kids of all ages were doing their part to beautify the coast by painting county trash barrels that will find their home back on the beach this week. Artist and sand sculptor Sandy Feet provided assistance and direction to kids who turned out to help “keep the beaches beautiful”.
For twelve-year old Mabry Spencer from placeCitySan Antonio, it was a chance to see local kids in action working for the environment.
“It's exciting to see something like this going on down here. As a tourist, my family and I am come down and enjoy the clean beaches and admire the perfect coastal environment, but we don't think about how much effort it takes to maintain the beaches and to fight things like beach erosion,” she said.
The local chapter of the Surfrider Foundation has been very active in preserving the beauty of the environment and ecology of the area by hosting and supporting a number of beach clean ups, dune restoration projects, and beach vegetation and erosion control projects. Surfrider is a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting the planet's ocean and beaches and is active around the world.
Another event Saturday was the creation of a special fundraiser Totem pole by local sculptor Andy Hancock. At the time the program started Saturday, Hancock wasn't sure what he was creating but promised it would be finished on time to celebrate Saturday night.
By the time the evening arrived, dozens of supporters grew to hundreds to enjoy an evening of live music by the Bongo Dogs, Junbug and placeCityBrownsville country singer Bree Stevens. As of late Saturday it was unknown how much the Chapter raised in funds to support local programs, but one official casually commented that the night was a success.
ART IN THE SAND FEATURED THIS WEEKBy placeCityLOGAN HAWKES
Port Isabel-South Padre PRESS
Local art is in the spotlight this week as the Laguna Madre Art League presents their Fine Arts Show & Sale at the South Padre Island Convention Centre Monday through Wednesday, Feb. 8-10, part of South Padre Island Market Days. Admission to Market Days is $1 and includes access to the Art Show, being staged in meeting rooms just off the foyer of the main exhibits.
Artists from across the Laguna Madre and the Valley will be exhibiting fine art in a number of mediums. The annual show and sale is expected to be well attended as it represents the best chance of the year to appreciate and acquire local art, often depicting the environment, flavor and colors of the coast.
Award-winning artists like Marne Law will be on hand to assist in selecting the right art. Law is a recipient of the Octavia Arneson Award from the Brownsville Museum of Art's International Show. Also on display will be the works of other noted local artists like Michael Kreider and Carol Plumb.
The free art show & placeCitySale is sponsored by the El Paseo Arts Foundation.
In the Market Days area, more art, handcrafted jewelry, and crafts will be offered in the trade show. The event is particularly popular among Winter Texans this time of year and a large crowd is expected for the three day event.
For more information, log on to www.sopadre.com.
RODEO WEEK ON THE THIRD COASTBy placeCityLOGAN HAWKES
Port Isabel-South Padre PRESS
It's time to “Cowboy Up”! in placeSouth Texas as the annual PRCA Rodeo in Los Fresnos kicks off Friday along with the Cameron County Fair & Livestock Show. And organizers say this year's show and rodeo may well be the biggest ever.
Mark Milum, Chairman of the Los Fresnos Rodeo Association, says competition on the rodeo circuit this year is already fierce among the professional competitors who depend on rodeo events like the one in Los Fresnos to build their points toward a national and world championship season. And with cash purses getting bigger each year and more and more cowboys joining the ranks of professional, it makes for an exciting contest this Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
"Some of the top PRCA cowboys and cowgirls from all over the world will be here to compete for the pay off prize this weekend," says Milum. "For the 6th consecutive year the PRCA has awarded Stace Smith Pro Rodeo Company, Stock Contractor of the year. When you watch those bulls and horses buck or those calves sprint down the arena remember they are the best of the best!"
Also a highlight of the rodeo are the brown (or crazy) rodeo clowns that protect the competitors from raging bulls. Rockin' Robbie Hodges will be the rodeo clown "in the can" to keep you entertained and the competitors safe. Also keeping the cowboys and cowgirls safe is longtime friend of the Los Fresnos Rodeo, Allen Nelson, and back again working along side Allen is Wacey Munsell. All three are widely known in the rodeo circuit and have garnered many achievements as 'bullfighters' through the years.
In addition to the rodeo, visitors are encouraged to visit the Los Fresnos Arts and Crafts Fair, which runs concurrent with the Cameron County Fair & Livestock Show. At the livestock show you can walk through rows of tents and view the various animals and projects area students have worked on diligently all year long. After visiting the Livestock Show visit the Fair grounds and take ride on the Ferris Wheel at the Carnival at the Fair or play a game to win that perfect prize for your sweetheart. There are many rides and games for the young at heart.
The Rodeo and Livestock Show kick off this Friday at the Los Fresnos Rodeo Grounds. Tickets are available at Zarsky Lumber-Los Fresnos - 956-233-4456; Boots N Jeans in Weslaco; Bullrider in Harlingen; Julias Restaurant in Los Fresnos; Gavels Western Wear in Brownsville; Boot Jack in Brownsville; Boot Jack in North 10th in McAllen; Boot Jack in South Main McAllen, and Harvey's LP in Los Fresnos.
Tickets are $12 in advance or $15 at the gate. Rodeo performances are scheduled for 8 p.m. Friday, 7 p.m. Saturday, and 2 p.m. Sunday.
WILL THE GROUND HOG SEE ITS SHADOW TUESDAYBy placeCityLOGAN HAWKES
Port Isabel-South Padre PRESS
Tuesday marks the day we find out if winter is going away early and making way for spring or if Old Man Freeze will hang around for another six weeks or not.
Ground Hog Day is Tuesday and an Old German myth has it that the hibernating ground hog each year ventures from its warm and cozy hole each February to determine if spring will spring or winter will continue, depending on whether or not the animal is frightened back into his hole by his own shadow. To set the record straight - in order to see his shadow the sun must be shinning. If the sun is shining, legend has it the ground hog will see his shadow and scurry back into his hole for six more weeks of winter hibernation.
Now that we're clear on that, here's some good news. The local forecast for Tuesday is calling for clouds and possible rain showers, meaning the ground hog can't see his shadow and, subsequently, spring will arrive early.
Now the bad news: We don't have ground hogs in placeSouth Texas (though we have a form of the prairie dog)., and besides, the modern legend of the ground hog originates from around Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, where the biggest ground hog day celebration is staged each Feb. 2. The event has grown so big in modern times that network television crews cover it as thousands wait to see if Punxsutawney Phil immerges from his hole and what he reaction he will have to the current weather at the time.
Now that's clear, what's the Tuesday weather forecast for placeCityPunxsutawney, StatePennsylvania? The National Weather Service official forecast calls for mostly cloudy with a slight chance of snow - and that makes the chance of the celebrity groundhog seeing his shadow about 50-percent. So much for being able to predict in advance what the darn groundhog will or will not see when it ventures from its hole Tuesday, and while that may or may not surprise you, you might be surprised to learn that a form of Groundhog Day is celebrated right here in the Valley each year.
Groundhog Day is loosely based on a Catholic Church observance known as Candelmass, or Candlemass. In the PlaceNameRio Grande PlaceTypeValley, and especially in neighboring placecountry-regionMexico, Candlemas is celebrated by the Church as a symbolic tribute to the light of God's glory that was manifested in Christ. It is the final major event of the Christmas season - Día de la Candelaria - marking forty days, more or less, after the birth of Christ, when he would have been presented at the placeCityTemple. It is on this day that the person who received the piece of bread with the Christ child on Three Kings Day holds a celebration offering tamales and atole to the guests.
Many people travel to placecountry-regionMexico this time of year to enjoy these historical and beautiful observances of the late-Christmas season. One of the most spectacular cities in country-regionplaceMexico to enjoy these festivities is San Miguel de Allende where Candlemas is a solemn, colorful and widespread observance.
Groundhogs and/or Church celebrations or not, many coastal residents in South Texas say their best method of gauging the beginning of the spring season is when hotel and condo reservations for spring break start running near capacity - and that, we're told, may not be far off.
RESERVE ACTIVATION GETS MIXED RESULTSBy placeCityLOGAN HAWKES
Port Isabel-South Padre PARADE
Reserve and National Guard unit activation is nothing new. Since the Revolutionary War of 1776, citizen soldiers - reservists and National Guardsmen - have been asked to lay down their shovels and hammers and abandon their plows and office desks and work stations to serve a period of active military duty in defense of their country.
The country-regionU.S. military reserve and National Guard have a long and proud history of stepping to the forefront when the call arrives, and that holds true as much today as it did in placecountry-regionAmerica's past. But modern military policies, a smaller active U.S. military in general, and the large number of foreign-soil campaigns in which the nation has been involved in recent years may be changing the way reservists think of their citizen-soldier duties.
Where once not-so-long ago a reserve unit might be called to active duty to serve a stint in an active military campaign, never before have reservists been called so often or for so long as they have since the beginning of Operation Iraqi Freedom - the second Iraq conflict which started in March of 2003. And the modern reliance on these reserve units may be changing the way reserve members are viewing their involvement.
“For some units and a few soldiers, frequent mobilizations and extended federal service have created a hardship in their civilian lives and caused concern for those with young families - or officers with career challenges,” says Command Sergeant Major Juan G. Morales, the Senior Enlisted Advisor for the Texas Military Forces. “But the Texas National Guard is meeting their enlistment requirements and stand ready to serve as called by the governor or the President.”
Yet, undeniably, frequent unit activations and extended foreign service is cause for concern among reservists nationwide. Those deciding whether to remain in the Guard and Reserve must take into account the possibility that they would have to serve longer and more frequently on active duty than they do now. Under current mobilization policies, part-time troops can be called to serve involuntarily on active duty for no more than 24 months during a five-year period. Army officials want the Pentagon to lift those restrictions so that National Guard and Reserve troops can be pressed into service more often; specifics remain to be worked out.
''We're not close to burnout, but we're at an important point and we need to monitor the situation very closely,'' said Christine Wormuth of the Center for Strategic and International Studies, who wrote a study on the future of the Guard and Reserves. “There is recognition that you can't keep using the reserve component the way we've used it in the past three years.''
In today's modern reserve and National Guard units you can find soldiers on both sides of the issue. In CityHarlingen, for example, the 100 soldiers in the 812th Quartermaster Company, an Army Reserve unit, are still fresh from a deployment in placecountry-regionIraq. A unit spokesman who asked not to be identified says roughly 25 percent to 35 percent of the soldiers in the unit are considering getting out.
“Some are eager to reclaim civilian jobs, threatened by their long absences. Others want to complete their education; to get their live back on track,” says the reservist.
A twice-deployed member of the unit with a wife and two sons, Staff Sgt. Noel Cortez decided that it was time to ''take a break'' from the Reserves after seeing the hardship his absences imposed on his family.
''I wasn't there for a whole year and I missed a whole lot,'' said Cortez. “I don't want to go through it again and I don't want them to go through it again.''
But not all reserve military soldiers feel the same. When placeSouth Padre Island police officer Juan Hernandez received notice last week that he is to report for duty for Operation Unified Response-Haiti, he didn't blink an eye.
The Army Reserve sergeant and water purification specialist, says he and other soldiers from his unit will be deployed for an unspecified time to country-regionplaceHaiti to support in the relief effort there. Hernandez said leaving his family is difficult, but he recognizes the importance of this humanitarian effort.
Yet for others, another call to active service represents another challenge in their civilian and family lives, a problem that is growing as placecountry-regionAmerica's global presence is expanded.
PI CITY COMMISSION HAS BUSY AGENDABy LOGAN HAWKES
Port Isabel-South Padre PRESS
PlaceTypePort PlaceNameIsabel PlaceNameCity Commissioners hope to find solutions Tuesday night to annexation and boundary disputes with Laguna Vista and the City of placeCityBrownsville when they meet in regular session at the City Hall meeting room at 7 p.m.
The ongoing disputes will highlight an agenda that also includes calling a municipal election to elect two city commissioners and the mayor, and a move to appoint an election judge and alternate judge to serve in that election. Resolution 01-26-10-01 would authorize the city election, authorize the City Secretary to arrange the costs for the election; designate election precincts; appoint election officials; establish pay rates for election workers; provide for notice of said election; provide for early voting; provide the use of the ES&S Automark System to comply with the Help America Vote Act (HAVA); provide for the early voting Ballot Board and the establishment of regular business hours of the City Secretary's Office on the final two days of early voting by personal appearance.
In old business, Commissioners will consider the second reading of an ordinance that authorizes an amendment to the 2009-10 Annual Capital Improvement fund budget by
appropriating $27,799.31 for first of four annual lease payments for a new street sweeper.
Following the public meeting, Commissioners will stage a closed meeting foe the purpose of personnel matters to deliberate the appointment, employment, evaluation, re-assignment, duties, discipline, or dismissal of a public officer or employee.
PORT ISABEL NATIVE RELEASES SUSPENSE NOVELBy LOGAN HAWKES
Port Isabel-South Padre PRESS
When Jim Gilliam was growing up in Port Isabel he wasn't thinking about writing a novel. He was far too busy enjoying the placeSouth Texas coastal environment and spending lazy summer days watching the shrimp boats sail in and out of port.
As a youth, Jim worked for the Port Isabel PRESS delivering the then-weekly edition of the newspaper door to door to local residents that he says “were always glad to get the newspaper and read the latest news”. The experience may not have inspired him to become a journalist, but it apparently introduced him to the wide world of reading and writing.
His young life in the placePlaceTypePort PlaceTypeCity and his proximity to the Texas-Mexico border apparently had a lasting influence. Now a civilian mariner/physician assistant for the U.S. Navy aboard the USS Walter S. Diehl (T-AO 193), Gilliam's new novel is set in Port Isabel and surrounding area, an engaging and fast-paced suspense thriller titled “Point Deception”, a riveting page-turner, based on true events. The novel is packed full of criminal activities, military action, and a likeable protagonist with a tortured soul.
The story revolves around Tim Kelly, the main character of the plot, a young man who grew up on the placeStateTexas coast. Kelly lies about his age and joins the Coast Guard at age 14.
Almost a decade later, his military career takes him to placeCityGalveston where he is reunited with his estranged father, James, a union organizer for a seafarers union. Tortured for years from the troubled relationship with his father, Tim is eager to make amends and form a lasting bond with James. Before the two can make up for lost time though, James is beaten to death by a union-busting criminal.
Devastated by his loss, Tim transfers to placeCitySan Francisco where he butts heads with his commanding officer. Consumed by anger and facing a court martial, Tim elects to go to placecountry-regionVietnam for combat duty. At war with himself and now with the enemy, he finds some solace when he meets three friends from his past. But death follows Tim and his buddies are killed by friendly fire. Returning home to nothing but bad memories and with a less than honorable discharge, Tim begins a new life as an undercover DEA agent.
Earning the trust of one of the most infamous kingpins in the drug cartel, Tim is privy to some of the most dangerous criminals in the world. More tragedy awaits him when his cover is blown and he is tortured by experts. There seems to be no way out. Tim waits for the rescue that may come too late!
Point Deception is full of references to Port Isabel, CityBrownsville and CityMatamoros, and offers the reader a look into the myriad and complicated world of high crime on the placeStateTexas border. The story moves quickly and offers many spell-binding moments of high suspense.
If you like Point Deception, Gilliam says you won't have long to wait for the sequel. He is currently working on the second novel in what could become a series.
The first novel is available online at his publisher's Web site: http://www.strategicpublishinggroup.com/title/PointDeception.html
When not onboard the USS Walter S. Diehl, Jim lives with his wife in placeStateNew York.
TELLING OUR CAUSEWAY STORYBy placeCityLOGAN HAWKES
Port Isabel-South Padre PRESS
It was a tragic time for country-regionAmerica following the unexpected Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks in CityNew York City and placeCityWashington, StateD.C. The last thing Laguna Madre area residents were thinking about was tragedy in their own backyard.
But that's exactly what happened four days later on the night of Sept. 15 when a fully loaded barge crashed into the pylons supporting the bridge sending the causeway's highest section plummeting into the bay.
It was horrible night of great local tragedy that will never be forgotten.
This Thursday night, Jan. 28, the public is invited to the Museum's of Port Isabel's laol “Telling Our Stories” series to learn more about the causeway collapse and how it changed local history.
The Museums of Port Isabel and the Laguna Madre Museum Foundation presents another “Telling Our Stories” Series (of 2010) on Thursday, January 28, at the Treasures of the placePlaceTypeGulf PlaceTypeMuseum, addressStreet317 E. Railroad Ave. at 7:00 p.m.
Valerie Bates, Marketing Director for the City of placeCityPort Isabel, will present the tragic story of the Causeway Collapse which occurred on September 15, 2001.
There will be an Exhibition of fourteen photographs by Valerie Bates which will be displayed at the Treasures of the placePlaceTypeGulf PlaceNameArt PlaceNameGallery. Her photographs present a rare view of the causeway and the aftermath that left thousands trying to find a way to cross South Padre to Port Isabel. Two years after the reopening of the causeway, Queen Isabella Causeway was renamed placePlaceNameQueen PlaceNameIsabella PlaceNameMemorial PlaceTypeBridge in honor of the victims of the tragedy.
“Telling Our Stories” is be sponsored by Port Isabel/South Padre Island's Subway Shoppes. Sandwiches and refreshments will be served following the presentation. Admission is free and the public is invited to attend and participate.
For more information, contact Gabriel Godines at (956) 943-7602.
The Museums of Port Isabel are located at addressStreet317 E. Railroad Ave., Port Isabel.
EL CIELO ROAD TRIPBy LOGAN HAWKES
Port Isabel-South Padre PRESS
It has been called a naturalist's placeCityMecca, a world to itself often hidden high in the clouds, a United Nations recognized Biosphere featuring several unique ecological zones, each teeming with wildlife and natural wonder; a combination of cloud and rain forest, high desert beauty and lower altitude environments that slowly make their way down to the Gulf plains.
And all this mystery and natural attraction stands waiting for the adventurer just a couple of hundred miles south of CityBrownsville in the placePlaceNameMexican PlaceTypeState of Tamaulipas. And now, thanks to the placePlaceNameWorld PlaceNameBirding PlaceTypeCenter, Winter Texans and other adventure travelers can experience this mystical wonderland in a special winter road trip planned to bring the remarkable into the spotlight.
This year the PlaceNameWorld PlaceNameBirding PlaceTypeCenter is offering twin opportunities to visit this magical and remarkable region and a chance to see some of the largest varieties of native and migratory biords in the placecountry-regionAmericas. The first trip is scheduled for Jan 28-Feb. 21 and the second adventure is scheduled for March 16-20.
Professional guides from the U.S. and Mexico will lead participants on a five day adventure to this seldom traveled bird and butterfly oasis where you may be lucky enough to spot Blue Morpho butterflies and birds such as Blue Motmots, Masked Tityras, and Yellow-winged Tanagers that await your discovery.
placeSouthern Tamaulipas' economy is based largely on tourism, especially ecotourism, the rising star of an influx of new visitors from around the world. The little PlaceTypevillage of PlaceNameLa Pesca, in the PlaceTypemunicipality of PlaceNameSoto La Marina, about midway between CityBrownsville, StateTexas and CityTampico, is a rapidly growing tourist area with lovely beaches and excellent fishing both in the placeGulf of Mexico and the Rio Soto La Marina. The central zone contains the capital, placeCityCiudad Victoria, and is home to much foresting and farming.
El Cielo is one of the last bastions of primitive Tamaulipas. Once forestry was a profitable industry in what is now the El Cielo Biosphere. But the harmful effect on the environment and the need to help local communities find other means of economic stability, El Cielo and its ecotourism potential has opened the door to alternative industry and locals in and around the park are beginning to benefit from its success.
The placePlaceNameWorld PlaceNameBirding PlaceTypeCenter's El Cielo excursion costs $650 for members and $700 for non-members (all-inclusive) and departs Feb. 21. For full details, call (956) 381-9922 or visit the official Web site at: www.edinburgwbc.org.
CAUSEWAY RUN WINNERSBy LOGAN HAWKES
Port Isabel-South Padre PRESS
It was a crisp cold morning Saturday - the coldest day in several years - as runners formed just outside the Port Isabel Library for the beginning of the 26th Annual World's Longest Causeway Run & Fitness Walk.
One breath of chilly air and the sharp and frigid wind chill outside was enough to make this reporter wonder if the turnout for the coveted event would be small this year. But about 2,500 participants made it to the start line by the 10 a.m. gun, a number that may have set a new record, and the cold weather seemed only to motivate those who braved the chill to participate in this unique and popular outdoor event.
The Marines were there. So were a number of high school athletes from schools all across the Valley. There were professional runners from country-regionMexico and StateOklahoma and placeStateTexas, and housewives and construction workers, the retired and the inspired. National Guardsmen made the trip South to the coast as did assorted runners and walkers from all walks of life.
As the clock struck ten, Port Isabel Chamber President Betty Wells directed runners to the electronic starting gate and the beginning of the 25th running of the Valley's most popular foot care and fitness event.
By the time the first in the field of runners reached the Causeway - closed to traffic to accommodate the race - it was apparent the cold weather had little effect on those who had come to compete. In just under a half hour, the fastest of the group, Westley Keating of Edinburg, crossed the finish line in the street in front of Louie's Backyard, three seconds faster than last year's winner, Alfred Cherop of Zapata.
Winners of this year's Causeway run include:
TOP MALE
Westley Keating - 29:42.0
Alfred Cherop - :30.05.1
Shadrack Soncook - :31. 54.3
TOP FEMALE
Hyvon Hgetich - 35. 6.4
Janet Rono - :35.44.4
Debbie Arzola - :37.15
For a complete list of winners in each age category, visit portisabel.org/causeway_run/01_09_2010.htm
PORT ISABEL COMMISSION MEETINGBy LOGAN HAWKES
Port Isabel-South Padre PRESS
Port Isabel city commissioners start off the New Year with an executive session Tuesday night to consult with the city attorney about possible litigation between the city and Lamar Sign Company and matters pertaining to rules and procedures related to Economic Development Board appointments and responsibilities.
Immediately following the closed meeting at 7 p.m., commissioners will open the doors to the public to entertain the regular meeting agenda.
Headlining the agenda are a pair of proclamations, one recognizing Port Isabel Fire Chief Gualberto Bennett and the other proclaiming the book “Martin Luther King”- by Faith Ringgold- as the Children's Book for the month of January.
City Manager Ed Meza is scheduled to make a number of special reports to the Commission. Up first will be a report on the City of CityPort Isabel Visitor and placePlaceNameEvents PlaceTypeCenter project, followed by a special report on the City's side walk project. Reports will also be offered on a revenues and expenditures statement and on the 2009-2010 sales tax received Summary.
Under old business, commissioners will review a proposed lease agreement for a city street sweeper. Under new business, the Commission will consider appointments to the Port Isabel Housing Authority and appointments to the Economic Development Corporation and the city's Planning and Zoning Commission.
The meeting will he held at the placePlaceTypePort PlaceNameIsabel PlaceNameCity Hall meeting room.
ARCTIC BLAST EXPECTED IN VALLEY BY THURSDAYBy Logan hawkes
Port Isabel-SouthPadre PRESS
National Weather forecasters in Brownsville are warning Valley residents there is a good chance that temperatures could drop to their lowest in 20-plus years by the weekend as a cold front ushers in frigid weather by sometime Thursday and dropping temps on Friday and Saturday to seasonal lows.
This is what Winter Texas came here to get away from, but they're going to get a taste of home by the weekend as an arctic blast blows into Deep South Texas plunging the mercury into the 30's during the day, and in some rural areasof the Valley into the mid-20's at night both Friday and Saturday.
Forecasters say there is a slight chance of freezing drizzle or rain/sleet that could mixed in with the colder nights possibly causing bridges to become iced over.
Forecasters say Valley citrus and sugar cane growers are keeping a close eye on the forecast but that most of the Valley's crops should be far enough south to avoid major damage. On the lower Texas coast, the weatherman says to dress in layers and wear a stocking cap and gloves when outside.
As for your home, don't use a gas heater inside, and keep an electric heater away from anything that could catch fire. Also, let your indoor water faucets drip to prevent pipes from freezing.
RARE BIRD SPOTTED IN VALLEYBy LOGAN HAWKES
Port Isabel-South Padre PRESS
A rare sighting of a tiger heron has caused a considerable stir in the birding world, not because the bird is overly rare but the elusive tiger heron has never been spotted in North America - until last week.
Rick Snider and Rick Nirschl caught the rare heron on film last Monday while on a birding adventure at Bentsen-Rio Grande State Park. Snider says they had been birding and were taking a break and looking for butterflies when the heron was flushed into the path in front of them.
“At first look we knew it was different,” Said Snider. But it wasn't until they reached the park headquarters and consulted their field guide that they realized what they had seen.
The population estimate for bare-throated tiger heron ranges from 50,000 to 499,999. But what makes this sighting so significant is that the species has never been spotted farther north than Central Mexico. The northern-most range of the tiger heron extends to within about 200 miles of the Texas border, but wildlife specialists say it is indeed rare for one to venture this far north.
The Bare-throated Tiger Heron, Tigrisoma mexicanum, is a wading bird of the heron family Ardeidae, found from Mexico to northwestern Colombia. It is generally 28-32" in length and weighs about 1200 grams. This large species is found in more open habitats than other Tigrisoma herons, such as river and lake banks. It waits often motionless for suitable prey such as fish, frogs or crabs to come within reach of its long bill.
The tiger heron is a solitary breeder, not normally found in heron colonies. The nest is a small flattish stick platform in a tree into which 2-3 green-tinged white eggs are laid.
State park officials say they expect a rush of birders of in the days and weeks ahead as a result of the rare sighting. Already Valley birders have flocked to the park in hopes of catching a glimpse of the rare bird. But biologists warn the wetlands heron may be hard to spot.
The sighting of the tiger heron raises the total number of bird species that frequent the South Texas coastal wetlands and the Rio Grande River's natural Bosque. A total of nearly 500 bird species are spotted every year in the Valley making the region one of the most productive for rare sightings in the United States.
RAREST CAT IN AMERICA GETS A BREAKBy Logan Hawkes
Port Isabel-South Padre
Highly endangered in the United States and rarely seen in the wild, the Texas ocelot is a magnificent creature by any standard. Once abundant and healthy, these creatures are now hanging onto the thread of continued existence, in danger of extinction as civilization crowds further into the backwoods of Nature's realm.
The Ocelot (Leopardus pardalis), also known as the Painted Leopard, McKenney's Wildcat or Manigordo (in Costa Rica), is a wild cat distributed over South and Central America and Mexico, but is also native to deep South Texas, the only place in North America where the small wildcat can be found in its natural habitat.
Even so, less than one-percent of wildlife habitat in South Texas is considered suitable for ocelot habitation, making the future of the South Texas native uncertain.
That may be changing a little thanks to the recent purchase of a wildlife easement purchased by The Nature Conservancy from South Texas rancher Frank Yturria on his Willacy County-Kenedy County San Francisco Ranch.
Yturria, 86, says the easement is adjacent to three additional easements he has already set aside for the ocelot. With the additional corridor of scrub and low thicket, Texas wildlife biologists say the wildcat will have room to grow and prosper. The new easements are one of only two documented ocelot breeding grounds in the country. The other is at the Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge. Nature Conservancy officials say they hope to open up the easement corridors with the Refuge breeding grounds some 20 miles to the south to promote cross breeding between populations.
The Ocelot's appearance is similar to that of the domestic cat. Its fur resembles that of a Jaguar and was once regarded as particularly valuable. As a result, hundreds of thousands of Ocelots have been killed for their fur. The feline was been classified as a "vulnerable" endangered species.
The Ocelot is mostly nocturnal and very territorial. It will fight fiercely, sometimes to the death, in territorial disputes. Like most felines, it is solitary, usually meeting only to mate. However, during the day it rests in trees or other dense foliage, and will occasionally share its spot with another Ocelot of the same sex. When mating, the female will find a den in a cave in a rocky bluff, a hollow tree, or a dense (preferably thorny) thicket. The gestation period is estimated to be 70 days. Generally the female will have 2-4 kittens, born in the autumn with their eyes closed and a thin covering of hair.
While the Ocelot is well equipped for an arboreal lifestyle and will sometimes take to the trees, it is mostly terrestrial. Prey includes almost any small animal: monkeys, snakes, rodents, fish, amphibians and birds are common prey, as are small domestic animals such as baby pigs and poultry. Almost all of the prey that the Ocelot hunts is far smaller than itself. Studies suggest that it follows and finds prey via odor trails, but the Ocelot also has very keen vision, including night vision.
HOLIDAY SPIRIT IN THE TROPICSBy LOGAN HAWKES
Port Isabel-South Padre PRESS
It may not have been the biggest holiday parade. It may not have been the most well attended. But Friday night's Island Holiday Parade on South Padre had plenty of holiday spirit, enough to drive away the seasonal chill in the air.
Delayed because of bad weather a week before, the parade kicked off a little behind schedule Friday night, but that didn't seem to damper the enthusiasm of kids and parents of all ages as they anxiously awaited curbside, in the parking lots of businesses and shops along the parade route, and anywhere else they could find room to launch their lawn chairs or stand in the crowd.
And they weren't disappointed as 40-plus entries into the annual lighted gala streamed down the boulevard to the blaring sounds of holiday tunes and marching bands.
Santa and Mrs. Claus made an appearance. So did local dignitaries like SPI Mayor Bob Pinkerton and Justice of the Peace Bennie Ochoa. No sooner had a string of fancy cars carrying their royal payloads passed by at the opening of the parade, brightly colored floats arrived to the cheers of the crowd.
There were gymnasts and cheerleaders, dancing troupes and school bands. The Color Guard was the first to pass and an entourage of Island fire trucks and police patrol cars brought up the rear. In between were floats and drill teams and even a parade of holiday canines.
“This is an annual tradition for us,” said 16 year old Cody Gonzales of Laguna Vista. His younger brother, Colton, added that to complete the tradition, a stop for ice cream after the parade was in order.
The chilly night turned out to be perfect for a holiday parade. With temps in the upper 50s, Mother Nature spared the rain and the crowd cheered their approval throughout the 70-minute affair.
For those that seemed a bit chilled from the brisk evening air, South Padre Island Executive Director Dan Quandt reminded people over a microphone at the judge's table at Padre Island Brew Pub that parts of the Midwest were covered in a foot of snow,
“Be glad you're in the tropics of Texas,” he beamed.
PI ANNOUNCES CHRISTMAS LIGHTING WINNERSSpecial to the PRESS
As the fog was rolling across the bay, the Santa Mobile was rolling through
the streets of Port Isabel looking for the most decorated houses and
businesses!
On board were City Manager, Edward Meza; Library Director and Interim
Economic Development Corporation Administrator, Carolyn Bogardus;
Commissioner M J Garza; Commissioner Memo Torres and Hanna Torres. Goodie
bags were given to ten decorated houses and businesses and candy given to
neighborhood children. (more photos at:
Winners include:
Ms. Rosa Montes and Family (110 E. Railroad Ave.), Mr. & Mrs. Traya
(101 Hickman St.), Calvin & Sandra Byrd (Adams St.), Manuel & Maria Hinojosa
(110 Adams St.), Terry & Mimi Coen (121 Madison St.), Grambaile Bar (205
South Shore Drive), Omar Perea (1706 North Shore Drive), Doubleday Sports
Bar (Highway 100) and the Port Isabel Police Station (Hickman St.).
SPI MAKES TRIP ADVISOR BEST LISTBy LOGAN HAWKES
Port Isabel-South Padre PRESS
While many Americans think of ski slopes and mountain resorts when they think of winter getaways, South Padre Island has made it into TripAdvisor's Top Five Value “Sun” Winter Vacation Rental Getaways list as the best place to land this season.
TripAdvisor, one of the Internet's leading travel reservation sites, announced ten of North America's best value winter vacation rental getaways last week, according to TripAdvisor listing data and editors.
The Internet travel gurus made a list of both “sun” and “snow” destinations of the season based upon a survey conducted among site users. The criteria included whether a value-oriented vacation rental would be a better getaway choice than a hotel or resort. According to the editors, vacation rentals provide an appealing accommodation option for those searching for better value and more living space.
TripAdvisor surveyed more than 1,000 U.S. travelers and found that 83 percent of respondents said they would stay at a vacation rental rather than a hotel or B&B for a winter leisure trip if they could get a better deal. In addition, when asked what factor would make them the most likely to stay at a vacation rental this winter, 37 percent cited low prices, 27 percent said a good location and 16 percent said more amenities.
TripAdvisor's best vacation rental destinations include:
“Sun” Destinations
Located off the Gulf Coast of Florida near Naples, Marco Island is the largest of Florida's Ten Thousand Islands. This vacation spot is surrounded by miles of beaches, marine wildlife including dolphins and manatees, and is within driving distance of Everglades National Park.
A group of four could save up to $3,730 by staying at a vacation rental on Marco Island versus a hotel for a weeklong stay, according to TripAdvisor's Vacation Rentals Calculator.
2. Bequia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines
The second largest in a string of islands called the Grenadines, Bequia has the charm of the old Caribbean and beautiful beaches to boot. Whether you're looking to swim, sail, snorkel, or relax on the beach, Bequia is a fantastic place to get away from it all and unwind.
A group of four could save up to $2,110 by staying at a vacation rental on Bequia versus a hotel for a weeklong stay, according to TripAdvisor's Vacation Rentals Calculator.
3. Kihei, Hawaii
Whether you want to sun yourself on its pristine, white sand beaches, like nearby Makena Beach, or tour the coastline and nearby volcanoes, Kihei is a beautiful destination for snowbirds. Situated on Maui's western shore, it is also a renowned spot for snorkeling and scuba diving.
A group of four could save up to $1,970 by staying at a vacation rental in Kihei versus a hotel for a weeklong stay, according to TripAdvisor's Vacation Rentals Calculator.
4. South Padre Island, Texas
A scenic tropical paradise with beautiful beaches and crystal clear waters, South Padre Island has plenty to offer those who want to sunbathe or find some adventure. In addition to its pristine beaches, the island features excellent parasailing, hiking, bird watching, deep-sea fishing, golfing, and scuba diving.
A group of four could save up to $1,060 by staying at a vacation rental on South Padre Island versus a hotel for a weeklong stay, according to TripAdvisor's Vacation Rentals Calculator.
5. Fort Myers, Florida
Fort Myers offers an ideal combination of activities for both sea and land lovers. White sand beaches and prime deep-sea fishing draws travelers year round to this gulf coast destination. For those who don't crave the salt water, there are also plenty of shopping, restaurant, and golfing options nearby.
A group of four could save up to $960 by staying at a vacation rental in Fort Myers versus a hotel for a weeklong stay, according to TripAdvisor's Vacation Rentals Calculator.
“Snow” Destinations
A veritable winter wonderland, Mammoth Lakes in the Eastern Sierra region of California has it all for travelers who love the snow. Mammoth Mountain Ski Area draws skiers and snowboarders from around the world, but the surrounding region also offers plenty of options for snowmobiling, ice-skating, and snowshoeing.
A group of four could save up to $2,700 by staying at a vacation rental in Mammoth Lakes versus a hotel for a weeklong stay, according to TripAdvisor's Vacation Rentals Calculator.
2. Jackson, Wyoming
Home of the longest and steepest vertical slope in the United States, Jackson is a haven for serious skiers and snowboarders. It also has activities off the slopes with plenty of shops and restaurants, as well as the nearby Yellowstone National Park for nature lovers.
A group of four could save up to $2,020 by staying at a vacation rental in Jackson versus a hotel for a weeklong stay, according to TripAdvisor's Vacation Rentals Calculator.
3. Lincoln, New Hampshire
Situated in the heart of New Hampshire's famous White Mountains region, Lincoln is close to many of the area's top attractions and ski areas. Travelers are just a short drive away from top ski resorts in the state, including Loon, Cannon, and Bretton Woods and can enjoy local winter tours on horseback, snowmobile, or snowshoes.
A group of four could save up to $1,190 by staying at a vacation rental in Lincoln versus a hotel for a weeklong stay, according to TripAdvisor's Vacation Rentals Calculator.
4. Rangeley, Maine
A beautiful New England destination year round, Rangeley truly shines for travelers looking for some outdoor winter adventures. Skiers can hit the slopes at Saddleback Mountain or ski cross-country in the scenic lakes region, and for something a little out of the ordinary, vacationers can even drive or ride a dog sled with a local pro.
A group of four could save up to $950 by staying at a vacation rental in Rangeley versus a hotel for a weeklong stay, according to TripAdvisor's Vacation Rentals Calculator.
5. Estes Park, Colorado
Estes Park, surrounded by Rocky Mountain National Park and Roosevelt National Park, is a great place to re-connect with nature and catch a glimpse of winter wildlife. It's also a terrific area for snowshoeing, cross country skiing, and ice-skating, and nearby Eldora Mountain Resort can even satisfy the alpine skiers in the family.
A group of four could save up to $930 by staying at a vacation rental in Estes Park versus a hotel for a weeklong stay, according to TripAdvisor's Vacation Rentals Calculator.
"Whether they're looking for fun in the sun or a day out on the ski slopes, there are plenty of winter travel destinations where travelers can save big by staying at a vacation rental," said Bryan Saltzburg, general manager of new initiatives at TripAdvisor.
PI LIGHTS UP THE HOLIDAYSBy LOGAN HAWKES
Port Isabel-South Padre PRESS
It started with Christmas caroling at Lighthouse Square. It ended with Santa and Mrs. Claus visiting with children. Somewhere between the two, church and children's choirs performed, cheerleaders cheered, and a special contingent of the Port Isabel High School band played while Port Isabel Mayor Joe Vega welcomed dignitaries and guests to the community's third annual tree lighting ceremony, the “perfect start” to the holiday season.
It happened last Thursday night when an estimated 500 locals and visitors crowded around Port Isabel's community Christmas tree on Railroad street across from the Museums of Port Isabel, a night of seasonal fun as kids played games, parents enjoyed assorted refreshments from vendors and Mayor Vega welcomed seasonal celebrants to an event Vega says “brings the community together.”
“This is absolutely wonderful…so many people, such a warm holiday feeling. It's exciting, and this event is growing each year,” Vega said.
Vega addressed the crowd and expressed his gratitude for all the many “blessings” the city has experienced throughout the year, and seized the moment to direct attention to the many new Christmas lights and decorations scattered across the community.
“I want to personally thank our public works department for their initiative and enthusiasm in decorating the community. You may have noticed a number of new lighting displays across the city, and these lights were designed and constructed by Baldemar Alaniz and the public works department. Many of these light displays cost up to $700 to purchase, but our guys came up with their own designs and constructed various lighted figures on their own, adding to the beauty and festive spirit of our community,” Vega told the crowd.
City Manager Edward Meza agrees.
“This is an amazing development for our city employees to go the extra mile to help decorate and beautify the community for us all. They deserve a great deal of credit for not only making these amazing lighted displays, but for saving the city a great deal of money in the process. We hope to build upon this each year,” he said.
“One day perhaps we'll get to the point where people will come far and wide to see our lights - like they do at Hidalgo's annual Festival of Lights,” added Vega.
In addition to the many seasonal activities around the tree, the Museums were open to the public and waived entrance fees for the evening.
“This is a good event to help bring the community together, said Raul Loera of Port Isabel. “The kids are enjoying it and so are the parents. I would like to see more community events like this.”
THE WALLS CAME TUMBIN' DOWN! (story below)  THE WALLS CAME TUMBIN' DOWN!
It was an historic moment on South Padre Island Sunday morning when the 31-story Ocean Tower High Rise Condominium project was imploded, an event that attracted thousands of spectators and hundreds of law enforcement and safety officials to make certain the project went off without incident. "Twelve seconds of glory" - it was called by one of the engineers associated with the demolition project, a near perfect explosion that required weeks of preparations and over 2,500 pounds of nitro-based dynamite to perform. The event is one for the world record books - the tallest reinforced concrete structure to ever be imploded. When the dust settled, concrete and steel debris was neatly piled about 40 feet in the air, and already work crews have started the clean up process, a project expected to take at least two months to complete. The high rise was imploded after construction was halted earlier this year when it was discpovered the structure had settled about 14-inches into the sand. The building was constructed just north of the South Padre Island Convention Centre in the sand dunes.
HIGH RISE TO FALL SUNDAYIt'll be the tallest structure ever imploded and it will happen on South Padre Island Sunday morning - if weather cooperates. The 31-story Ocean Tower condominium building is scheduled to be imploded at 9 a.m. Sunday. But officials say that could be delayed if winds are not favorable of in the event of heavy fog.
The luxury condo project has been standing empty for more than a year after it's foundation began sinking into the sand. The decision to implode the building came in October, and explosive crews have been working since then preparing the high rise for implosion.
Access to the northern end of the Island will be restricted for several hours Sunday morning as officials will have a wide area of land and water around the tower blocked off. Law enforcement officials say parking anywhere on Hwy 100 will not be allowed, and Island police are warning tailgaters that in the State of Texas there are alcoholic beverage laws prohibiting consumption before noon. Those laws, they say, will be enforced.
This event is being called a film bonanza as thousands of video cameras are expected to be rolling, plus National Geographic is filming the event for a one hour TV special to be aired next year.
ISLAND HOLIDAY PARADE RESCHEDULEDWeather once again has caused the delay of a Laguna Madre area holiday event. This time the annual SPI Holiday Parade falls victim to cold drizzle. Orginally schedyled for Friday night, DEc. 11, the parade will now be staged the following Friday, Dec. 18.
RED TIDE ADVISORY FOR DOG OWNERSBy LOGAN HAWKES
Port Isabel-South Padre PRESS
Officials say it remains unclear whether the Cameron County parks department will ban dogs from beaches across South Padre Island after an alarming report from the National Park Service (NPS) this week that an unusually large number of coyotes and domestic pets turned up dead in what is believed to be related to consuming fish that died from red tide and washed up on the beach.
The National Park Service in Corpus Christi issued the ban Monday after park rangers discovered a number of dead coyotes and reports began filtering in about domestic pets that either died on the beach or shortly after visiting the beach. All of the incidents happened on National Seashore property between Port Mansfield north to Corpus Christi. So far, no reports of dead coyotes or affected pets have been reported on South Padre Island, but county park officials say they are monitoring the development closely and are prepared to issue a warning if toxicology reports confirm dead fish was the cause.
“We spent some time in a conference call with state health officials on Tuesday about this situation. So far, no such reports of wild or domestic animal deaths have been reported on South Padre Island beaches, but the plan at the moment is for the Cameron County Health Department to issue an advisory warning pet owners of the potential danger,' reports Javier Mendez, Cameron County Parks Director.
That advisory was expected to be distributed early Wednesday morning.
Mendez says the beach is a popular spot for winter visitors who often bring their dogs with them for “fun in the surf”. But he reminds pet owners that leash laws are in effect on all county beaches and suggests that pet owners monitor their pets carefully to avoid contact with any dead fish on the beach.
The National Park Service and the Texas Department of Health have confirmed that animals that recently died on the National Seashore tested positive for brevotoxin, acquired from the consumption of fish killed by the recent red tide. Officials say there is no known antidote for the toxin.
“Brevetoxin is a toxin produced by dinoflagellates, such as Karenia brevia, the dinoflagellate responsible for the recent red tide event,” according to a press release from the NPS.
WINTER TEXAN INCIDENT RATTLES LOCAL VISITORBy LOGAN HAWKES
Port Isabel-South Padre PRESS
It was supposed to be a festive day of celebration Saturday when Nuevo Progreso hosted their annual "Welcome Back" party for winter visitors to the Valley and the region. But unexpected gunfire sent hundreds of Winter Texans scrambling from cover as drug violence broke out on the crowded streets about a block away, a rattling experience for many winter visitors who had just recently arrived in the Valley for their annual stay.
It all happened about 2 p.m. Saturday afternoon in Nuevo Progreso, normally a quite Mexican border town noted for it's lack of drug violence and a popular spot for winter visitors in search of bargain and inexpensive legal pharmaceuticals. After hundreds, perhaps thousands of visitors walked across the Nuevo Progreso bridge and joined the festivities on a blocked off street where the festival is held, a truck crashed into a building about a block away and gunfire erupted sending Winter Texans and locals alike looking for cover.
Mexican military soldiers began exchanging fire with what were described as Zeta drug cartel members moments after the car crashed through the door of a local bar. When the smoke cleared and the gunfire stopped, a mass exodus of winter visitors streamed back across the bridge, many to find the bridge had been closed to all traffic in both directions. Many visitors had to wait an hour or more before the bridge was reopened.
The Mexican military is still being vague about the incident, saying only it involved drug troops and cartel members. There has been no word on the extent of injuries suffered by those involved in the shooting. Mexican officials say the incident is still under investigation. Meanwhile, the streets in Nuevo Progreso were ghostly quiet for the remainder of the day and evening, a ghost town-looking scene in Progreso's tourist district that stretched through Sunday afternoon. Mexican business owners say they fear the visitor's may not come back, and a few Winter Texans commented after the incident they were uncertain whether they would return this season.
Edgar Marshall and wife Donna of Iowa Falls, Iowa, were in Port Isabel Saturday to watch the lighted boat parade and say they were planning on visiting Progreso Sunday until they heard about the news.
“We almost went to Progreso today,” said Edgar Marshall pointing to the boats lining up at White Sands Marina. “But the wife didn't want to miss this parade. We usually take in the parade every year, but we cross over (to Progreso) at least a couple of times during our stay to pick up medicines. I'm not sure if we're going over this now after what happened.”
QUICK TIPS FOR HURRICANE PREPBy LOGAN HAWKES
Port Isabel-South Padre PRESS
No one wants to think about it, but after Hurricane Dolly made landfall on the lower Texas coast last year, residents are more aware of the dangers of another storm season. And while plenty has been written and said about being properly prepared, there is no such thing as “too much information” when it comes to getting ready in the event another major storm should assail the Rio Grande Valley.
The Port Isabel-South Padre PRESS has prepared a short list of information that every coastal resident should review. It includes a comparative list of this year's predictions from several forecasting sources and important information you should consider as you prepare for the hurricane season - which gets underway today. The annual tropical season runs from June 1 - Nov. 30.
2009 Hurricane Predictions
# Named # Hurricanes # Major Hurricanes
Colorado State/Bill Gray 14 7 3
Weather Research Center 7 4 0
Weather Services Inc. 13 7 3
Accuweather 13 8 2
Force Intrusion Areas of the Home
· There are four key “Force Intrusions Areas” of the home that are most affected by hurricanes … roof, windows, entry doors and garage doors.
· Severe winds can compromise any of these areas with tragic results.
Creating a Secure Home
1. Windows - The biggest cause of devastation during a hurricane is the ability of wind to enter a structure through a broken door or window. This causes a build-up of pressure inside the structure that can literally blow out the roof and walls. Code-approved impact-resistant windows are designed to withstand flying debris during brutal storms. They help provide maximum protection without the need for unattractive shuttering systems, or boarded up windows and doors.
2. Roofing - When having a new roof installed or an old roof replaced, select impact-resistant roofing tiles and those that can withstand high wind speeds. Make sure the installer follows the roofing manufacturer's warranty guidelines for installation. Proper nailing will help your roof make it through severe weather.
3. Entry Doors - Install door that swings out instead of in. These doors have welded hinge pins, so security is not a problem and the wind actually helps to keep the door secured properly.
4. Garage Doors - When building or remodeling, make sure to use the latest weather-resistant building materials available, such as hurricane strapping, clips, corner bracing and tie-down systems. Make sure to select garage doors that are reinforced on the inside and have extra bracing capabilities.
Quick Facts About Wind Strength
The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale is a 1-5 rating on a hurricane's intensity.
- Category 1 Hurricane - winds 74-95 mph
- Category 2 Hurricane - winds 96-110 mph
- Category 3 Hurricane - winds 111-130 mph
- Category 4 Hurricane - winds 121-155 mph
- Category 5 Hurricane - winds 156 and greater
Before the Storm - Preparing Your Family
· Develop and practice a family emergency plan.
· Create a disaster supply kit for the home and a separate one to take in case you must evacuate.
- For your “stay at home” emergency kit include flashlights, batteries, tarps, duct tape, non-perishable foods and water for the entire family and pets. Don't forget a battery operated radio, disposable camera, medicines and critical paperwork.
- For your “evacuation” emergency kit, include the following in a watertight container: prescription and over-the-counter medicines, important papers (i.e. passports, birth certificates, copies of insurance papers and wills, health insurance paperwork, pictures of furnishings, listing of medications, policies, deeds, stocks and bonds, titles to cars), checkbooks, record of all bank numbers, inventory of valuable household goods, address book with contact information for doctors, insurance agents and relatives, safety deposit box keys, evacuation map of area.
· Make sure your homeowner policy is updated and includes flood insurance.
Safeguarding Your Home
· Secure all loose objects (such as lawn furniture, garbage cans and planters) that can become flying missiles when hurricane winds intensify.
· Turn off your gas, water and electricity before evacuating.
Unless you have impact-resistant glass in your windows, make sure to shutter up or board up windows and doors.
Tape over and seal all soffit vents and roof vents to prevent wind-driven rain from splashing into the vents and flooding the attic.
Add bracing to the interior of garage doors to reinforce them against wind damage.
For “after storm” cleanup, have the following items available: tarps, duct tape, heavy work gloves, gas cans, batteries, chain saws, shovels, rakes, water filters, cleaning supplies, first aid kits and extra strength large garbage bags.
Trim tree limbs near or touching the home.
When a Storm is Forecast for Your Area
Fuel your car.
Fill bathtubs and sinks with water.
Review your evacuation route.
Get cash in case you must evacuate.
Have a battery-powered NOAA weather radio available.
Use your family's evacuation and family emergency plans.
Make sure all family members wear closed-toe shoes or sneakers.
Make arrangements to board or evacuate pets. Take shot records, rabies certificates and tags and vet information.
Have supplies and basic foods available.
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SWINE FLU UPDATESIn an effort to track the potentially dangerous Swine Flu outbreak, we offer a series of brief reports collected from various local and national news sources to keep you informed on the latest developments. Watch these pages in the days and weeks ahead for viable information designed to help you and your family cope with this new health crisis.
SIX MORE VALLEY RESIDENTS DIE FROM SWINE FLUSix more deaths in the Valley caused by the H-1-N-1 flu virus have been reported. State health officials report on the agency's web site that last month, a woman from Cameron County, and three women, a man, and a boy from Hidalgo County, died after contracting the swine flu virus. They bring to 7 the number of H-1-N-1 deaths in the Valley. A Harlingen woman was the first to succumb to the virus back in May. Statewide, 21 people have now died from H-1-N-1. The state health department website also says Hidalgo County has, by far, the most reported cases of H-1-N-1 in the state -- 1-thousand-115. Cameron County reports 335 cases, Starr County has 36, and Willacy County 16.
TWO MORE SWINE FLU DEATHS IN VALLEYTwo more Valley residents have died after contracting the H1N1 flu. The state health department is confirming the two patients from Hidalgo County had contracted the H-1-N-1 virus. The patients were a woman in her 30's and a boy in his teens. Officials are still waiting, though, for test results to determine if underlying health conditions may have played a role in their deaths. They are the first swine flu deaths in Hidalgo County, and bring the Valley's swine flu death toll to three. State health officials, though, say that number is consistent with expectations, and with the number of deaths which occur during a seasonal flu outbreak. Experts say, however, the swine flu appears to be hitting younger people the hardest -- people who may have not yet gotten the flu and have not built up some immunity to the virus
SWINE FLU REACHES PANDEMIC LEVELBy LOGAN HAWKES
Port Isabel-South Padre PRESS
For the first time since the 1960s, the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a global flu pandemic effective immediately. Worldwide, there are now nearly 30,000 cases of swine flu and 141 people have died from it.
With WHO's declaration this week that the virus has reached global pandemic levels, Texas health officials say the rest of the world finally is catching up with what the Lone Star State has been doing for more than a month.
Being the first state to have confirmed cases helped launch Texas into preparation mode amid the outbreak of H1N1 "swine" flu in April, says Emily Palmer of the Texas Department of State Health Services.
"The fact that they raised the pandemic level to six came as no surprise to anyone," she said. "Probably since early May we've been in response to pandemic mode. It (swine flu) occurred here first in this country and Texas had some of the early cases. We were on the early end of that and they're (WHO) catching up with what we've been doing for a month or more
Since the state has been dealing with the disease for more than six weeks, there has been time to plan staffing, equipment and funding to fight it she says.
There have been 1,883 cases and six deaths in Texas, making it the second-most active state in the country for the disease. Hidalgo and Cameron counties lead the swine flu count in Texas. Hidalgo County has confirmed 406 H1N1 cases while Cameron County is reporting 261 confirmed cases.
“On the basis of available evidence and these expert assessments of the evidence, the scientific criteria for an influenza pandemic have been met. I have therefore decided to raise the level of influenza pandemic alert from phase 5 to phase 6,” reported World Health Organization director-general, Margaret Chan during a press conference Thursday.
Dr. Thomas Frieden, the new head of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, said in Atlanta that he does not expect widespread public anxiety in the United States as a result of the declaration, noting it came nearly two months after the virus was identified.
For many weeks, U.S. health officials have been treating it as a pandemic, increasing the availability of anti-viral flu medicines and pouring money into a possible vaccination program. And scientists have grown to understand that the virus is generally not much more severe than the seasonal flu.
"That helps to tamp down any fears that may be excessive," Frieden said at a news conference - his first as CDC director.
But the virus can still be deadly and may change into a more frightening form in the near future, and so people should not be complacent, he added.
CAMERON COUNTY NOW HAS NEAR 200 SWINE FLU CASESThe number of H1N1 flu cases in Cameron County has risen 135 confirmed cases, with nearly 200 cases reported including suspected cases. The new numbers were released by the Texas Department of State Health Services. The totals for Hidalgo County as of last Friday number 134 confirmed and 55 probablecases for a total of 189. Starr County's total has increased to 23 cases, including seven probable and 16 confirmed. In Willacy County, the total of three cases remains the same. Statewide there are now 1,364 cases, including 326 probable and 1,046 confirmed cases.
Husband Of Flu Victim Denies "Underlying Health Conditions"The husband of the Harlingen woman who died after contracting swine flu, is denying she had pre-existing medical conditions. Steven Trunnell telling C-N-N's "Larry King Live" last night his wife was "a healthy pregnant woman" who'd never been diagnosed with major medical complications. Judy Trunnell was hospitalized April 19th, slipped into a coma, and died a little more than two weeks later. State health department officials said after her death the 33-year-old school teacher had "chronic underlying health conditions", including asthma and rheumatoid arthritis. But in last night's interview with Larry King, Steven Trunnell called that "absolutely false."
Willacy County Records First Flu Swine VictimsYou can now add Willacy County on the list of those with confirmed cases of swine flu. The Texas Department of Health Services reporting three Willacy County residents have come down with the H-1-N-1 virus. That brings the total number of swine flu cases in the four-county Rio Grande Valley to 112. That number includes 7 more cases confirmed in Hidalgo County, bringing that county's total to 37. 61 cases have been reported in Cameron County. 11 in Starr County. One Valley resident has died as a result of the virus -- 33-year-old Judy Trunnell of Harlingen.
Corpus Christi Man Becomes 5th Swine Flu Death
The Nueces County Medical Examiner ruled Friday that a 33-year-old man died on May 6 in part from the H1N1 flu virus. Carlos Garnica, 33, died at a local hospital's emergency room May 6 of viral pneumonia, according to Nueces County Medical Examiner's Office officials. Garnica's death is one of five swine flu related deaths in the United States.
MORE SWINE FLU CONFIRMED IN CAMERON COUNTYBy LOGAN HAWKES
A third case of swine flu has shown up in Cameron County. The Texas Department of Health Services confirmed the case over the weekend, but there is no information yet as to the gender or age of the patient who tested positive for the H-1-N-1 virus.
Of the other two patients who've contracted swine flu, a 23-month-old boy is still being treated in a San Antonio hospital, three weeks after becoming ill. And a 33-year-old Harlingen woman died last Tuesday.
Doctors say Judy Trunnell had asthma and rheumatoid arthritis, which were exacerbated by the virus. There have been three other confirmed cases of swine flu in the Valley -- one in Hidalgo County and two in Starr County.
Meanwhile, swine flu fears continue to brew in Brownsville. State health officials have notified Brownsville school officials of nine more students who've tested probable for having the swine flu virus.
The students attend seven different elementary, middle, and high school campuses. However, the notifications are not expected to postpone the scheduled re-opening of the schools Tuesday. Officials shut the district down last week after getting word of the first two suspected swine flu cases.
DESPITE COVERAGE, SWINE FLU MAJOR PROBLEMBy LOGAN HAWKES
Port Isabel-South Padre PRESS
In spite of fewer swine flu stories in the news in recent days, state health officials are warning the outbreak of H1N1 flu continues to be problematic all across the nation, especially in the Rio Grande Valley.
According to the Texas Department of State Health Services' web site, Cameron County now has 193 cases of the H1N1 flu virus. Hidalgo County is reporting 259 cases. Starr County has 16 cases, and there are seven confirmed cases in Willacy County.
Texas Department of State Health Services Commissioner Dr. David Lakey urged students out of school and their parents to continue to take precautions to reduce the risk of spreading the virus.
"The virus continues to circulate," Lakey said. "We need to continue to take those personal steps to keep from getting or spreading H1N1 flu."
Lakey said everyone should:
Stay home if you have influenza-like symptoms or other symptoms of respiratory illness.
Cough or sneeze into the crook of your elbow or into a tissue and properly dispose of the tissue.
Wash hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and warm water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth to reduce the risk that germs on your fingers enter your body.
Symptoms of H1N1 flu usually include high fever with a cough, sore throat or both. Some with H1N1 flu also have reported extreme tiredness, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
FLU DEATH NUMBERS UP, NOBODY'S TALKING?http://schemas.microsoft.com/office/word/2003/wordml013fBy LOGAN HAWKES
Port Isabel-South Padre PRESS
An alarming statistic has emerged from the Texas Department of Health Services (DSHS) that may have gone unnoticed by all but Internet news activists. Deep inside the DSHS Web site is an updated list of H1N1 (commonly called swine flu) cases in Texas. In the July 8-dated report, the Rio Grande Valley now has 1,460 confirmed cases of H1N1 this year, including six new deaths.
DSHS is reporting 4,464 cases of H1N1 flu in Texas, including 4,463 in Texas residents from 120 of the state's 254 counties. That means the Rio Grande Valley has reported nearly 31-percent of all H1N1 cases within the state. Overall, the Valley has recorded 7 of the 21 deaths from swine flu in Texas this year. The six newly reported deaths apparently all occurred during June.
Since the nation's first H1N1 case was reported earlier this year (in Texas), public health officials have downplayed the threat of the flu. Officials in both the Austin office and the Harlingen regional office of DSHS have warned that the current outbreak of swine flu appears no more dangerous to the public than the average yearly run of seasonal flu. And in spite of a `pandemic warning' from the World Health Organization, Texas officials appear unconcerned over what some have termed a serious threat to public health as a result of this new flu strain.
Of further concern perhaps is the lack of communication from DSHS about the latest H1N1 flu information. When questioned why the state department of health did not publically announce the most recent deaths and cases of flu in the Valley, officials say they not routinely track flu information, and suggest they do not release information about individual medical cases.
Earlier this year a number of school districts across the state closed as a result of swine flu fears and DSHS is suggesting those closings may have been unnecessary if not premature. In addition, DSHS officials are quick to point out that all H1N1 deaths in Texas have been underscored by “pre-existing health conditions” of the people who died from the flu, a statement that has been publically disputed by family members of some of the victims.
When calls were made to the Harlingen regional office of DSHS, the PRESS was referred to DSHS officials in Austin. Several phone calls to that office remain unanswered.
Officials at the Center for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta, while cautious about raising an alarm over H1N1, have expressed concern over the growing numbers of cases reported “at a time when seasonal flu cases should be subsiding”. Both state and national health officials are expressing concern that when cooler weather returns, H1N1 may intensify.
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