Random thoughts

Pereda...its in the Judge's Court

2012-01-17T14:57:00.002-06:00

The likelihood that Pereda will be fired has increased due to the most recent oversight. A recent incident adds to the county's dissatisfaction with Pereda. As reported, Pereda is being blamed for not informing the County that the TCEQ was requesting an insurance payment. The insurance payment was being requested by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality for the continued operation of the County's landfill.

Its good business sense that if Pereda knew that the insurance was due that he should have alerted Commissioner's Court that they had a bill that needed to be paid.

On the other hand, the county also has a landfill Board of Directors that have some responsibility over compliance and operations, and yet they too apparently failed to notify the county. Should they too share some fault in not bringing this to the County's attention?

Its an understanding that our District Judges will have to concur with any final decision to fire Pereda.

Overall, if there is one thing that young people starting their careers should learn from this situation, its that if they ever get a job like Pereda's, they should embrace it enthusiastically and never take the position that I will do only what is required and nothing more.

Johnny Ruiz pleads not guilty

2012-01-07T13:07:00.002-06:00

EAGLE PASS -- Johnny Ruiz, Eagle Pass Independent School District Chief of Police entered a plea of not guilty to a theft charge he faces in Eagle Pass Municipal Court on Friday.

The charge stems from Ruiz arrest after he allegedly took merchandise without paying from a local Wal-Mart store in Eagle Pass. Ruiz has stated that it was a misunderstanding and that he was not arrested. However, on the day of the incident, Ruiz was taken to the Eagle Pass Police Department and processed and given a citation for theft.

There was speculation that Ruiz would plea no contest but with his plea of not guilty, its now up to Wal-Mart and its security staff to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Ruiz in fact took mechanize without paying. The court appearance has been set for February 9 before Municipal Judge Francisco Martinez.

In the meantime, Ruiz remains suspended from his position as EPISD Chief of Police pending the court's outcome.

What happens in Texas stays in Texas

2012-01-07T11:54:00.002-06:00

Almost three years ago I was pleased to hear presidential candidate Barack Obama talk about making government transparent and ending undue profiteering by people who do business with government. He also told us that he would hold all agencies taking federal funds responsible for maintaining transparency and launched the stimulus bill funds.

In short order we found out that what he wished failed to materialized. Obama was someone that appreciated the developing technology and expounded on the idea that all governmental entities would make use of automation to disclose fund dispersal and expenditures.

Three years later, his expectations remain unfulfilled as the majority of governmental entities refuse to disclose such information as Obama envisioned. Matter of fact, our State underutilizes equipment that it has at their disposal and instead sets up informational website that display mostly hierarchical data with virtually no vital information.

Its truly unfortunate that our State places so little importance in maximizing the use of the technology and is allow to continue without any improvement.

Have double dippers cause the county to create another program

2011-10-12T12:58:00.002-05:00

One has to be careful when they form an opinion based on local news stories but if the latest news about the county is true, taxpayers should take notice of the latest development in county government.

In a previous story, we were informed that some residents were going to different locations and accepting free food that are made available from Laredo's Food Bank distribution center. Some were then allegedly selling the produce to the public, something that is not condone by the Food Bank.

In order to address the problem, the county has decided to designate another "department" which will contract a Director, an Assistant and two workers. It will be their job to distribute the food and prevent residents from re-selling what is given to them for free.

What has caught the ire of two of the commissioners is that $125,000 will be taken from their precinct's budget to help set up this new department. It seems that the justification for such action is that these two commissioners have not done enough for their precincts in the past. The question remains whether these two commissioners have underserved their constituents or have managed their budgets wisely.

Nonetheless, we should see whether the combined $250,000 taken from the two commissioners will be enough to finance this new department and cover the salaries of these four new employees.

What Happens to the Landfill Board

2011-10-09T11:08:00.003-05:00

The County Commissioners will be meeting this Tuesday to determine whether the landfill board consisting of Enrique Montalvo, Roberto Mireles, Rafael Santana , Héctor Mijares and Rolando Jasso continue for another year.

By all indications, they have served well. In previous publications, it was reported that Commissioner Heredia want to be allowed to name any replacement because the landfill was his project. That suggestion seemed to go away.

The question that begs for an answer is why were their NO provisions written as to how and when landfill board member would be replaced when the board first created its bylaws. You would think that board governance would be one of the most important aspect of its creation.

I think that the community looks to Mr. Hector Mijares to correct this problem simply because he uses common sense.

Violators, a viable resource

2011-10-02T20:36:00.000-05:00

Here is a suggestion for the City of Eagle Pass. In light of the fact that they are both short on staff and funds as a result of cutbacks, an option can be provided to the the hundreds of people that go before the municipal court for different violations. Allow them to volunteer to complete community service as payment for their outstanding fines. It can also be an option for the presiding municipal judges to consider when they sentence violators. Or this could be assessed by the municipal judge as part of a sentence or fine. No?

Will Limbaugh Blame Obama for the Earthquake

2011-08-23T15:26:00.000-05:00

Well our country is feeling the wrath of not only unemployment, a depressed economy and now earthquakes in Washington and along the east coast. Tonight should be exciting when we see how Hannity and Limbaugh are going to blame Obama for the earthquake.

Two Hundred Fifty Loyal visitors

2011-08-23T14:40:00.000-05:00

I am faced with the realization that the Alumni Website may soon become obsolete. There is no doubt that Facebook has offered everyone the opportunity to establish their place on the internet by giving everyone full control of its content. On good days EPalumni.Com would register as many as 6,000 visit a day but as Facebook grew, current hit are as low as 250. Being 154 miles from Eagle Pass also created some difficulty in continuing to provide some local news. I also acknowledge the success of both Eagle Pass Daily and Eagle Pass Chronicles in becoming the preferred online source of information. I will continue the site for these loyal 250 visitors as long as I can. I also want to thank the 1072 Friends on Facebook.

Is Hector Chavez vacating his position as Director of Public Works

2011-07-21T12:56:00.000-05:00

In an exclusive news report published in El Latino, a foreign press outlet, it was reported that a rumor had surfaced indicating that Public Works Director Hector Chavez had "evacuated" his office following a meeting with City Manager, Daniel Valenzuela. According to the story, the rumor seemed to gain credibility since Chavez chose to take a week long vacation following that meeting.

The story further states that Chavez may have to leave his position upon his return, something that was not verified by either Chavez or Valenzuela but by other unnamed city officials.

According to the Latino, many had speculated that Chavez would be leaving his position possibly due to his dealings associated with the county landfill and his role of consultant to the County as it related to the landfill.

So the question is whether this information should be taken as news or a simple rumor that should be treated as an editorial from that publication.

Regarless, come Monday the public will know if El Latino had an exclusive that no one else did and that no one else cared to pursue.

Getting Fed Up

2011-06-01T21:30:00.001-05:00

I don't know why but recently too many things have been bothering me to the point that I feel I have to vent otherwise my pressure will go sky high. The most recent annoyance has to do with removing my old version of Kapersky Virus Protection program from one of my computer. I have never had this much trouble removing a program and I have removed many programs. It is clear that Kapersky does not want to leave my computer and those that built this program had that in mind. All through the process, Kapersky keeps asking if I really want to remove. Of course I want to remove it but it asks the question at least three times. At the end, after he/she gets the message that I really want out the program freezes. Stops. It makes me reboot the computer and again I go through the same process with the same result. Should we punish the software developers that purposely design it be difficult. I say yes..but where do I find them?

The 24%

2011-04-27T23:59:00.001-05:00

Today has not been a good news day despite the fact that President Obama's birth certificate was released. The hope was that this could finally settle the issue. News reports during the day pointed out that 24% of the conservative voter will not change their mind and will continue to believe that President Obama is an illegitimate President. While that is troubling, what is more troubling are allegations that a majority of this 24% will never accept him because he is black. In other words, these are those that will hate you because of your race or ethnicity. This is the core of white America that will never accept you no matter what. During my life I have met them but have never asked them why they hated us. One of them called in to the Sean Hannity radio program today and was noticeably upset and discounted the validity of the President's birth certificate. He was drawn into the spirit of this show to the point that he angrily stated that they were left with only three ways to rid themselves of Obama. Hannity ask for the three ways and he stated that first was to not re-elect him, second was to impeach him and then there was a third way but paused in explaining. Listeners understood what the third method meant. This exchange was broadcasted all over the country as daily fodder for the 24%.

A real deal at Jack’s

2010-12-30T23:24:00.001-06:00

Well call me a service critic and I will not argue because that is basically what I have become. Few of you may know that I have no kids and am supposed to be enjoying the golden years after retiring. This may explain why I prefer to eat out rather than try to cook at home and eat by myself.

Today I tried Jack in the Box’s $3.99 Jumbo Deal, which gives you two tacos, a hamburger, fries and all you can drink..drink. To tell you the truth, I expected some catch, like paying more if you wanted lettuce or tomatoes but no. The offer is legit and a terrific deal.

The tacos taste the same way they tasted during my college years. Back then I could handle as many as five tacos from the same place on San Pedro and Hwy 35 in San Antonio. A single taco was about sixty-nine cents back then in 1969.

I would say that if anything needs any improvement in the Jack in the Box Jumbo Deal its their hamburger. Most hamburgers seem to have a distinct taste and you can tell them apart. My favorite is the #2 Sonic, followed by Burger King, then Whataburger and then Wendy’s.

So I must say that Jack’s Jumbo Deal is a real deal especially for a total of $4.31 including tax.

I'm mad as hell and I won't take it anymore..maybe

2010-11-27T14:15:00.002-06:00

I am sure that you are much like me and so you understand that as daily consumers of goods and services that things are changing. I call it the revival of our economy. What am I talking about you ask? Well I have stated this over and over about eating out on a daily basis simply because it is convenient at my stage in life. Because of that, I get to see the subtle price increases in what we pay for tacos, toothpaste and meds. By now you probably heard that our economy is slowly improving because profits are up even though hiring is still not happening. But I also notice that some businesses are also gouging the public because they are going to extremes in making money.

Take today for instance. I took my vehicle to the Peppy Boys this morning after they gave me an estimate on the phone of $130.99 to repair a water hose. But once there, they said they had made a mistake on the labor, which would increase my cost to $210. Left with little choice, I said ok but told my wife that I expected them to call me to say that they found something else that needed fixing. Sure enough, in about two hours I get the call. They said that after fixing the hose, they found out that it was not the hose but a "Y" that was leaking and were willing to give me a discount and charge me only $200 more. So my total would be $410.

So you see our economy is improving and capitalism is alive and thriving in SA. Makes me want to come out of retirement and go work for the Boys.

Walmart - Out of Order

2010-10-31T15:10:00.001-05:00

Unlike many people, I seldom print the more than thousand photos that I take each month at events. But sometimes I do it as a request. Such was the case about a week ago. It was then that I found out that at least in San Antonio, it could be a flourishing business. I see people lining up for a chance at the print computers. But what I also saw was that most seem to be out of order. I spoke to a frustrated store manager from a chain drugstore and was told that their corporate office does not place much interest in that particular area.

I drove to several outlets including CVS, Walgreen and Walmart and found machines out of order.

One such stop was an eye opener when I ended up at a Walmart Store in the far Southside of San Antonio but found out-of-order signs taped over the screens on two machines. There was no one around. I hated the thought of having to drive more than 18 miles to Ritz Camera on the north side of San Antonio. Just then a Walmart saleslady arrived and I asked when they planned to fix the two machines.

"Oh no, both machines are working. Just take the sign off the screen." she replied. She added that the signs are placed on the screen when they have no one available to work at the photo section.

I placed my Sandisk card in the machine and printed my photos.

I'll Have a Granule Fajita Taco

2010-09-21T17:02:00.002-05:00

I know I have said it before. I eat out most of the time and seldom cook at home. So this has taken me into many restaurants which I have enjoyed because of the convenience and adventure. I have no qualms about where I go and often try a new place if I see their parking lot full. This week I have tried fajita tacos on flour tortilla and have found a developing change. At both places I asked for the same thing and although they are on opposite sides of San Antonio, I found that the restaurants are now serving their fajita meat in granules; sort of slightly oversized BBs. Both add lettuce and tomatoes at no extra cost. The result is over-cocked meat, often dry and crumbly (crumbly ?). I hope this is not happening everywhere. I can't imagine the reason for this change but somehow I feel that they will blame the economy. The taco in this picture is not the one I ate.

Family and Friends are very important

2010-09-21T00:14:00.000-05:00

Web Posted: Sept 21, 2010 12:10 AM
By Robert Castillo

About three years ago, I experienced a health scare that for a short time affected my vision. I was seen by numerous specialist and all but one was willing to give me a prognosis. I became aware that this condition also had an effect in the way I was living. Without any effort, I became more thoughtful and considerate of friends and family, realizing how significant they all were. This serenity was a welcome feeling. It was better than the fast pace and busy schedule that kept me going day in and day out. I also noticed that I was less likely to get upset over insignificant things and more willing to walk away from any argument or confrontation with others. However, as my vision improved my serenity seemed to diminish and now I find myself getting justifiably upset with rude or discourteous people. So when people ask me if I am better I am not trying to be flippant when I say yes and no.

Stadium, Will it be ready or not?

2010-07-18T21:49:00.002-05:00

EPalumni.Com
Web Posted: July 18, 2010 3:PM
By Robert Castillo

The question as to whether the Student Athletic Center stadium will be ready for play on August 27, 2010 has been answered.

Fans were expecting to see the first official football game to be played on the $30 million dollar facility on August 27, 2010 at 7:30 pm when the CC Winn Mavericks football team plays Devine High School. In an official statement, a district official has assured that the facility will be ready for the game. It was also explained that the project had been delayed due to persistent rains in the local area.

Because of the amount of construction that still needs to be completed, some speculated that the new field would not be ready and as a result the game would have to be held at the old Eagle Pass Field.

The parking area and some access construction to the stadium is a major piece of work that is still pending but is expected to be completed before the scheduled date for CC Winn's first game.

It was also mentioned that the Fine Arts building will be delayed for another year. Already funded, the building's cost is estimated to be $6.5 million.

----- Above photo courtesy of Eagle Pass Sports Central.Com

One week vacation - Hawaii

2010-05-22T07:22:00.002-05:00

Well its 7:24am and I am hooked up to the airports Wifi waiting for my flight to take off. Let me just say that I have neglected my blog for many months but hope to use it in the coming days.

I will clean it up when I finish by vacation. First thing. Anticipating the long flight and not wanting to pig out before leaving, I decided to get a simple biscuit-sausage and egg from McD at the airport. Wow not the same price as in the neighborhood. But because of the high price it tasted much better.

I packed my Nikon and hope to do plenty of photography and I don't want to do the typical postcard shots. I know that its easy to say but we will see.

One more thing...I don't plan to spell check so be warned.

Tele-Marketers are back again

2010-03-09T19:28:00.000-06:00

Years ago I closed my home phone account with AT&T. Despite placeing our phone numbers on the States no call list the calls continued and AT&T could not help us in blocking these calls which increased month after month. For years we have used only cell phones but this week I started getting telemarketing calls. One in particular is so persistent. I got at least five calls from 206-203-2524. I have tried to trace the number and it originates in Seattle, Washington. I called my cell phone provider and they are going to get back to me. I wait.

Retirement...

2009-12-02T16:45:00.001-06:00

I don’t know about you but this is the time of the year I start a self-evaluation about myself. I suppose this may be a result of many years of having worked with a state agency that was obsessed with high expectations.

Luckily, I’ve always felt good about myself when I looked back at the year. Being retired concerned me because I did not want to become complacent and idle and so I jumped into a number of activities hoping to still make a difference. So for a while I muddled in community advocacy and area politics but was disillusioned when our issues got lumped into one collective complaint and conveniently labeled a senior citizen’s issue. These were ceremoniously cast aside with promises of more senior recreation, free meals and periodic medical screenings.

Well this led to solitary walks through beautiful parks, contemplating a more meaningful existence.

And so here I am, still walking and thinking.

Embracing technology..please

2009-12-01T15:21:00.002-06:00

This is just a short commentary fueled by what I saw at my five-year-old nephew’s elementary school (Kuentz Elementary School). Recently I attended a school performance where my little nephew danced along with other kiddos, all this as part of the school’s opening in Helotes, Texas.

The placed was packed to capacity forcing me to sit at the back of the room. The event went on without a hitch and without any self-aggrandizement on the part of the school administration. The event was simply a recognition of the schools opening and a promise to parents that much would be expected of their 82 teachers assigned to Kuentz. By the way, the district received 1,800 applications for these 82 positions.

Along with the advanced notices sent to parents about the upcoming event, parents were also told that the ceremony would be seen through live streaming on the Internet. And yes it was. Being a high tech junkie, I walked over to the school staff running the live steam and asked questions. I learned that the school like other elementary schools in the area use live steams for school announcements and to communicate with parents in this time of cybertechnics.

Sitting there my thoughts drifted to Eagle Pass and I asked myself why none of that was possible in our own schools. But perhaps it was being done and I just didn’t know it. If its being done, its quite a well kept secret because I have not found any links that give the rest of us access to school events (live-streamed).

So the ever present “what if” question formed and I asked, “What if our schools in Eagle Pass could embrace cybertechnics and match what is being done at my 5 year old nephew’s elementary school?”

Governor's Operation Recon

2009-10-08T14:11:00.001-05:00

On September 10, 2009 we heard of the launching of a new joint mission by Governor Rick Perry to deal with what has been characterized as escalating drug trafficking occurring on the Texas-Mexican border. His efforts would consist of sending as many as 200 highly trained personnel from the National Guard. They in turn would join “strike teams” of state police and Texas Rangers. The team operation was referred to as Operation Recon.

It’s been almost a month since this announcement was made and it is not known whether such operation ever materialized. What is known is that the Eagle Pass – Piedras Negras area had seen an increase of law enforcement personnel in months before the announcement. Judging simply from news accounts, it appears that arrests have increased, more so now that in the past.

It’s also known that many more have been arrested in local areas where short term drug warehousing occurred. A large amount of these arrests occurred as a result of calls from the public, especially from those living in those areas.

In the meantime, we wait to hear more about Operation Recon.

Court imposed community service

2009-10-08T01:47:00.000-05:00

It’s late at night. Actually, its 1:13am and I have viewed all my networking pages including Facebook, Tweeter, YouTube and my email. I have had plenty of random thoughts today but nothing stuck.

I did give some thought to the final outcome to the student’s case before the municipal judge for minors in possession (of alcohol). I was hoping to make it to Eagle Pass and listen to both sides.

From the prosecutor’s side, I felt that proving possession might be the major obstacle especially arresting 50 people at one time. I wondered if each student was seen with a container in hand or did they admit it to the arresting officers. Was the student advised of his/her right to remain silent thus thwarting an admission of guilt? Then there is that thing called constructive possession, which I don’t understand but kept coming up.

And then what I read about the defense’s argument centered on the legality of officers going onto the property without probable cause. Personally I felt that was a weak point since calls had been made and could they have seen minors with cans and then decided to intervene.

Regardless, the final outcome was a win – win conclusion. These minors got a much lesser charge after the possession charge was dropped and replaced with disorderly conduct. But what was on my mind today was not only all that but the additional court ordered community service imposed on the students. What has been mentioned is that they must go before students (age unknown at this time) and try to convince them of the evil ways of drinking. Will they be able to get their point across? Are they really aware of the total ramifications of what could have happened? More importantly, remorse. Is there any remorse or is it a badge of honor or a rite of passage. And most importantly, does every parent want his or her kids to sit through such a possibility.

Take the butter off the table

2009-08-09T14:31:00.003-05:00

I am starting to really notice that restaurants are serving smaller portions while at the same time using smaller plates.

This is the restaurant where I go on Sundays. The place used to be packed but that too has changed. I can see that less people are coming and it could be because they too have noticed the changes.

Today they brought no chips with sauce, which has been a ritual since I can remember.

In a way, I want to thank them for the changes they are making in order to stay afloat and survive as a business.

According to health officials, our nation has become a nation of obese people with the exception of Portland. So I want to thank the owners of this restaurant for helping me come to my senses by lessening my portions. Now if they could bring me two flour tortillas instead of four that would be great. And take the butter off the table too.

For What Its Worth...the song

2009-08-08T10:20:00.004-05:00

There's something happening here
What it is ain't exactly clear
There's a man with a gun over there
Telling me I got to beware
I think it's time we stop, children, what's that sound
Everybody look what's going down
There's battle lines being drawn
Nobody's right if everybody's wrong
Young people speaking their minds
Getting so much resistance from behind
I think it's time we stop, hey, what's that sound
Everybody look what's going down
What a field-day for the heat
A thousand people in the street
Singing songs and carrying signs
Mostly say, hooray for our side
It's time we stop, hey, what's that sound
Everybody look what's going down
Paranoia strikes deep
Into your life it will creep
It starts when you're always afraid
You step out of line, the man come and take you away
We better stop, hey, what's that sound
Everybody look what's going down
Stop, hey, what's that sound
Everybody look what's going down
Stop, now, what's that sound
Everybody look what's going down
Stop, children, what's that sound
Everybody look what's going down

The meddling Eagle...

2009-08-01T19:31:00.001-05:00

Hectic day today in SA. For those that don't know or have no interest in my personal life, I have been in SA for over 30 years and in the last five I have lived in the Southside. The Southside is a lot like Eagle Pass but without el Chisme. The worse you could have been accused of was stealing somebody's trashcan. But now we all have the same city disposal container, which the trash pickup scans when it is lifted by the mechanical arm and dumped inside the truck. I suppose they can tell if you stole it. So that put a damper on that trade.

The first thing I did today was to meet with a neighborhood activist that was having a fundraiser to pay for flyers and posters. He is going up against the San Antonio Independent School District. SAISD wants to close Burbank High (which is my adopted school being that I am no longer in Eagle Pass). He was selling chicken plates and sales were slow cause everyone is selling something at each corner. At one corner you have the Little Bulldogs Football team and at the other you have mini-cheerleaders going to state competition. Anyway, I hope they don't close Burbank.

Next I hung around with the Dawgs from the Burbank Class of 1969 at their Taco & Hot Dog fundraiser. These guys were very easy going. Maybe cause they move around a little bit slower. I spent most of my time with Mike Rodriguez, the designated DJ for their class. He immediately challenged me to name any oldie and he would play it. That’s when I popped out my MP3 and told him that in my 4G-memory card I had more than 2,000 oldies ranging from Bill Haley and the Comets to Crystal Blue Persuasion.

I asked him if he had noticed that at reunions, most don't play the songs of their high school years but instead they go for the current dance music or that Hot Scoching Boogie. I told him that I grew up with KTSA and Ricci Ware in the sixties. I asked him if they played Mexican/Spanish music in the sixties in San Antonio and he said that it was mostly songs from Sunny, the Royal Jesters, Rene & Rene and Rudy and the Rino-Bobs. And in San Antonio the Malt House on West Commerce and Zarzamora was what the Charcoal was to us in Eagle Pass. I had a good time listening to real oldies and I think the Dawgs of Burbank have finally adopted me as a meddling Eagle.

Nothing...just words

2009-08-01T02:15:00.004-05:00

Day two of my liberation from my website that I kept up for 14 years. Its hard to break old habits. I find myself checking my email box from time to time. I don’t get any email anymore and I knew that would happen. But I did read some nasty messages left by someone that is upset that the page is not up anymore. But at the end of his message he accuses me of being bought out by politicians. What I will probably miss more than anything is pursuing stories created by “chismosos”. Those are the ones that would post statements like “is it true that they are closing the bridge?” Now, this poster simply wants to start a rumor and wants to see how far it goes.

Last night I went out to Pico De Gallo (in San Antonio) with a fellow classmate and we talked about others from our class. He suggested that we organize a small reunion; “small” being the operative word. At our last gathering, we had about 14. For about two hours we talked about going to the buck night drive in. We talked about the pep rallies on Main St and the bonfires at the vega before the homecoming game, and the wooden floors at Kress.We all said our goodbyes with hopes and promises that we would meet more often, which did not happen.

For the record, Luis and I had our picture taken at Pico De Gallo and we are calling that our classes reunion for this year. So, we had a good reunion, the food was excellent, we had mariachis and the place was packed. There, that takes care of our 45-year class reunion.

Kids can do wonders...

2009-07-29T18:02:00.001-05:00

Recently I got a call from a total stranger, someone I had never met. Someone had given them my name and phone number. Their names were Liz and Paul, both who turned out to be great people. They were planning to get married and wanted a photographer. I told them I would do it and I did.

However during the entire ceremony, I noticed that the bride’s mother would not smile and I pointed this out to Liz, knowing that her wedding album would show this. She wasn’t able to explain why her mother did not smile and left me with the impression that her mother seldom smiled or was uncomfortable in social settings.

I made it a point to catch her smiling so I sort of stalked her hoping to get a candid shot of the illusive smile but to no avail. Finally, after the church ceremony while she sat waiting for her ride to the reception and surrounded by her grandchildren I found the moment and took this shot. I sensed a little annoyance on her part for my intrusion.

Now I had a two-hour break before the reception and decided to develop her photo. I did a little work with the computer and rushed to a nearby drugstore and printed an 8x10 photo.

Two hours later, I arrived at the reception to continue my wedding photography and saw the bride’s mother sitting at a table towards the rear of the hall. I walked towards her with the 8x10 photo in hand and placed it on the table right in front of her. It took a few seconds for the illusive smile to slowing develop. She looked at me and asked, “Is this me?” “Yes,” I replied. For the next hour and a half I saw her walking from table to table showing everyone the photo with a smile that would not go away.

That goes to show that kids can do wonders for us.

Transparency & Accountability

2009-07-09T13:57:00.001-05:00

Why is it so difficult to get any information about where our federal stimulus money will be spent? Will the money be used to give teachers a pay raise or will it be used to complete a loop to nowhere or will we be so inept not to apply for additional federal funds aimed at specific environmental projects?

My attempts to get information have not been fruitful and the answers that I have gotten from elected representatives are muddled, unclear, non-specific and total generalizations. I am convinced that the difficulty in getting clear-cut specifics from those that should know is because they don't know either.

What I am asking is simple and not complicated. Let’s suppose that you received a $10,000 bonus from your employer and you informed your spouse. The first question would be "what are you going to spend the money on?” Your answer could be that you will fix the car, buy a new central air conditioner, take a trip to Florida or simply put it in savings. Now that is exactly what citizens want to know. The public wants to know how will the county, city and school district spend the money.

The answer should not be difficult to answer. My assumption is that a needs assessment of sorts has already been done by each entity. So why can't we make that public. Perhaps the submitted preliminary reports did not have such specificity but that doesn't matter.

President Obama made it clear and emphatic that these federal appropriations would have total transparency and accountability. In my opinion we don't have that here nor does it exist across the country.

The public turns to our news media to solicit this information, to analyze it and then present it to the public. That is not happening either. I am lead to believe that our local media chooses not to address this important story because they find it too complicated and time consuming to research.

Perhaps many do not remember Eddie Rodrigues. Eddie served as school board member, city councilman and other positions. Eddie was a good man and a consummate public servant. He would force those with such information to explain it clearly, free of bureaucratic jargon. If any official or administrator tried to gloss over his question, Eddie would not allow it. It was not unusual to see Eddie going over handed material at a coffee shop, in anticipation of that day's board meeting. Eddie always got us answers.

EPISD to Receive $7,193,000

2009-05-29T00:44:00.002-05:00

The entire school district has been approved for a total of $7,193,000 from the stimulus bill educational funds enacted by the 111th United States Congress and signed into law by President Barack Obama on February 17, 2009.

From this amount, $4,2008,000 is directed for expenditures allowed under the Title 1-A which gives School districts a wide latitude in the expenditure of funds to improve student achievement. Title I funds can be used for tutoring, reducing class size and after school programs.

The remaining $2,985,000 falls under IDEA Part B expenses which are intended to ensure that children with disabilities have access to a appropriate public education that meets a child’s unique needs and prepares him or her for further education, employment, and independent living.

All these funds are at the disposal of our school district that besides improvements in education, they are also intended to stimulate the economy through purchases, hiring and yes even some construction.

In the State of Texas, the Texas Education Agency was entrusted to establish the processes that need to be followed to bring order to the allocation of federal funds. Communities and educational institutions are pleased with the generous amounts available to school districts but many are equally concerned about possible fraud, waste, abuse, or mismanagement of these federal funds. The Texas Education Agency insists that districts be open with details about how they plan to apply these funds. They have also asked for accountability and transparency and suggested that each district conduct a comprehensive needs assessment to inform the public how they plan to spend these funds.

The House Select Committee on Federal Economic Stabilization was created to provide transparency and accountability of the $16 billion that will be available to Texas.

It behooves everyone in Maverick County to be aware of our district’s need assessment and to participate to the extent allowed for the sake of our children’s education.

More later.

our REACT members....

2009-05-14T13:17:00.001-05:00

Perhaps as a departing gesture I want to make an analogy about one of my previous endeavors which gives me pride because it made a difference at the time. In the 1970’s the country saw a surge in the use of electronic technology in CB radios as a form of close range communications.

Initially local use of this technology grew gradually primarily because of cost. But as it developed, people join others and there was an amicable manner among all users. Courtesy was evident much like what you see at an intersection with a stop sign at each corner. Channel 19 was the common channel where you tagged up with another caller but took your conversation to another adjacent channel in order to free 19 so others could use that channel. It wasn’t long before we received calls for help from stranded motorists or to report motor vehicle accidents.

I learned about a nationwide organization called REACT. This organization’s primary objective was to answer emergency calls on Channel 9; the emergency channel on CB radios. A group of us came together and developed procedures to introduce REACT to Maverick County and shortly thereafter received our charter and were operational. During the period that this organization existed, we helped countless motorist with emergencies and in one case were able to get emergency assistance to a truck driver involved in a head-on collision in the early morning hours. Our service received local recognition and we received a city proclamation, at a time when proclamations were not as common as today. Looking back at our members, it is clear that these were all caring individuals that had a strong sense of community and wanted to give back to our county. Local CB radio operators quickly learned that our organization was on Channel 9, willing to help anyone.

But as time went on, more and more CB users started using CB radios. Obscenities became common and users would played music on Channel 9 and 19. Others would hold down the microphone button, which would not allow others to use the radio. The situation worsens to the point that we asked for federal intervention since CB communications fell under their jurisdiction. We soon learned that the federal government had no staff to enforce these FCC regulations. Time and time again we tried to reason with these abusers but to no avail. As we complained, they became more determined to disrupt what many had worked hard to create. Frustrated and discouraged, our membership dwindled and eventually disbanded.

I have very pleasant memories about our REACT members, knowing that they stepped up and helped our community up until the end and all this with absolutely no compensation

Photography – Once Upon a Time

2009-04-29T02:35:00.003-05:00

In May of 1966 I walked into a dingy, humid little room that had a rancid smell of vinegar and spoiled fruit not knowing that I had just taken my first step towards a life long interest in photography.

The place was Sweetwater Air Force Station, forty miles east of Abilene, Texas. Sweetwater was my first Air Force duty assignment following electronics training at Keesler AFB in Mississippi. I was 19 and having bouts of homesickness, wondering what my friends were doing back home. I did enjoy my job but dread the time off because there wasn’t much to do.

I mostly spend my time in the “day room” which was a recreation center of sorts. There was a very small library as part of the center. The librarian was a pleasant civil service lady that sat waiting for someone to walk in but for the most part everyone stayed away from. It was she who explained what was available including, table tennis, checkerboards, chess sets and a black and white tv viewing room tuned to Armed Forces Network.

As the months went by, I got to see everything there was to see around the base and as it turned out, the recreation center was the best there was.

There was one room, with a rusted padlock on the only door and it had no sign on the door and it had no windows. I pulled on the padlock several times thinking it would open but it didn’t. I remembered that the librarian had been very thorough about everything but she had not said anything about this room. The room was next to the library. (More Later, time to go to sleep.)

How Safe Are We........

2009-03-25T13:06:00.000-05:00

We do not know why Piedras Negras, Mexico has been spared from the brutal atrocities that have been left in the wake of cartel violence along the Mexican side of the border. What we do know is that the United States military is waiting in the wings, waiting to militarize the community of Eagle Pass. However, many city and county officials along the border appear to be united in their belief that conditions do not require such a drastic step at this time. Others ask “If not now, when?” The exception of course, is El Paso, which has seen plenty of cruelty inflicted on law enforcement on the Mexican side of the river. If you wonder why the community of Eagle Pass is opposed to the occupation of military troops, perhaps there are several reasons. The one that seems clear is that if the need for intervention is not necessary, and it is imposed prematurely, it could have a devastating impact on the economy of the small community of Eagle Pass. One can conjure military equipment, vehicles and troops throughout this community, which is not a poster card invitation to the visiting public that patronize the businesses and events and fill up the local motels. Others see it differently. An influx of military personnel could also stimulate the local economy, which could offset the loss of city and county revenue generated by Mexican nationals and other visitors. And yet, the sensible argument goes against the concerns for the local economy and more for the safety of the citizens of Eagle Pass. Shouldn’t they be prepared in the event of violent escalations or collateral damage caused by confrontations with the cartel? I think so.

What's in a Name....

2009-03-12T10:05:00.002-05:00

Parents of newborn know that its not easy picking a name simply because it will identify their son or daughter for the rest of their life and what that name reflects can mean enough to make you happy or not.

Take my case for instance. My mother explained that when she came up with my name she was viewing a movie at the Yolanda Theatre and the actor in the movie happen to be playing the role of an attorney named Roberto. It’s seemed my father had no objections and that was it. When I was born a month later, my name was Roberto.

My father was and is a kind man but in our early years, he was not that demonstrative with his affection but was very dedicated in providing for the family. I suppose that as a term of endearment he called me Bovie; which is spanglish for Bobby. Neighborhood friends also met me as Bovie and so it stuck.

At six, I enter public education and had Mrs. Proctor as my first teacher. My perception at that age was that she was not bilingual and during the first roll call in her classroom she could not pronounce "Roberto" and every time that she tried, all my classmate would laugh because it sound nothing like "Roberto". She decided to call me Bobby which was different that Bovie. So Bobby stuck for the next 12 years.

When I started my professional career, I used Roberto as my name but again changed it to Robert for those that could not pronounce Roberto. So all the years leading up to my retirement, either one was used.

Now I am meeting many of those I grew up with in Eagle Pass and they call me Bobby. Somehow the name Bobby seems odd for an aging person with graying hair. But it must be done simply because those that know me and all my close friends find no problem is calling me Bobby. So from now on it will be Bobby or Bovie if you wish.

Maribel Flores...best candidate

2009-03-09T16:42:00.003-05:00

There are many of us that enjoy the tribulations that go with a popular election be it at the national level or at the local. The give and take of candidates doing battle, each trying to persuade the public that they are the best choice is interesting because many times it brings to the forefront those issues that need to be addressed in city government.

Maribel Flores will hold on to her position as city councilperson and rightfully so. Ms. Flores would be a tough opponent and she has performed admirably often lending a sensible and intelligent quality to deliberations at city hall. Aside from that, she is known as an ethical person that would never compromise for the benefit of interest groups and to the detriment of those she serves.

My congratulations to Ms. Flores.

Charcoal Grill gone...

2009-02-08T10:53:00.003-06:00

Its remarkable how those that operate the Charcoal Grill at the Mall have been able to keep it going despite the economic situation that has brought down many other businesses. I have seen the slight increase in prices obviously aimed at staying afloat. When in town, the Charcoal Grill has been one of my stops. Each time I have sought that old fashion taste that set their hamburgers apart from all others in the 60's. Perhaps it was the mix of great hamburgers, Mr. Lonely playing in the background and the cherry coke that is no longer there. Neither is the quick wit of then hostess, Thelma that brought your hamberger in the straw basket. So, I want to thank the Brown family for giving me wonderful memories and a place to not only eat great hamburgers in the 60's but a place where I sat along with my peers and discussed our future.

Less fideo...

2008-11-09T22:40:00.002-06:00

If you are like me its likely that you have seen the price of eating out get a little more expensive. For too many years I got used to eating out at Bill Miller's, Long John Silver, Pizza Hut or the Little Red Barn. I remember that as a college student living off campus we economized and relied on carne con fideo. The recipe was simple. You would brown the fideo, throw in some hamburger meat, unions and tomato paste. The cost of the yellow box was about ten cents back then and today its 29 cents. The box has not changed but the price has. Not only that, HEB has it on their shelves and it still shows a net weight of 142 grams. Well I compared a box bought a month ago with one bought today and although the weight posted on the box was the same, the contents were not. Thats all.

Thanks for the invitation...

2008-10-15T18:39:00.000-05:00

First of all, I want to thank the school district for inviting me to the groundbreaking ceremonies for the Student Activity Center set for October 29th in Eagle Pass, Texas. I also want to update the information on the Stadium page with the latest development but not before apologizing for the lack of updates as promised. I did contact one school board member weeks ago and he agreed to answer some of my questions after a committee meeting but he failed to do so. Tonight I plan to call an old faithful source of information and hopefully post it soon.

No mas....no mas

2008-09-24T14:16:00.002-05:00

Another dirty trick is in the works. No doubt that the McCain strategists have taken notice of the beating that their candidate has taken due to his viewpoint that our economy is fundamentally sound. In the past weeks, the McCain campaign has been on the ropes trying to separate themselves from President Bush and his economics. Today McCain informed the nation that he is suspending the campaign in order to address the current financial catastrophe that affects our nation. He has also asked that the Presidential debate be postponed. The question you should ask is what is McCain’s contribution in resolving the problem when his viewpoint is so off the mark. What he is in essence doing is asking for time off or is he saying No Mas...No Mas.

by extraordinary means.....

2008-07-13T12:00:00.000-05:00

If Daniel Valenzuela is accepted as our new city manager, he will do so with a full plate of issues. Perhaps the most sensitive is the recent arrest of the city's Chief of Police. Tony Castaneda was arrested this week on a warrant issued at the request of the County Attorney, Ricardo Ramos for hindering apprehension or prosecution; a Class A misdemeanor punishable with a maximum sentence of 1 year incarceration and or $4000 fine.

What is at issue is what exactly happened on the day of the arrest of Glen Starnes following a city council meeting where he was dismissed of his duties.

According to news sources, a warrant had been issued for an arrest which would have placed Starnes in custody immediately following the council meeting.

The question that is germane is whether Chief Tony Castaneda was aware of the active warrant at the time Starnes left the building or was Starnes escorted out of the building by extraordinary means thus avoiding an arrest. If that was the case, what could be the justification for a law enforcement officer to fail to execute an order of arrest.

If the validity of the warrant was an issue, what steps were taken to confirm whether it was legitimate? Answers are sure to come in the next few days. Daniel Valensuela will also be involved with the logistical impact of the border fence.

environmentally advantageous....

2008-06-27T11:15:00.001-05:00

Repairs and construction of the lower end of the arroyo started this week as part of State funding from the ORCA program. The total allocation of funds for this particular project has been allocated at $421,000. It is not known if the project will reach the Rio Grande River or how much it will cover.

This part of the arroyo has received much attention throughout the years but not enough to make it flourish in a way that would draw citizens and visitors.

Its apparent that the landscaping needs some work and it also needs tending particularly irrigation.

This has led me to wonder if the possibility of turning this arroyo project into a more environmentally advantageous project is at all possible. Would it be possible to create a small reservoir from where the city could draw non-potable water to irrigate plants and grass? While I am aware that the State regulates the use of water from naturally flowing bodies, is there a provision that would allow our use of that water just for our arroyo project? Just wondering.

Herrera walks out...

2008-06-18T00:39:00.001-05:00

It is quite intriguing to read in local newspapers about the current problem involving Joe Herrera, the Parks and Recreation supervisor, Jorge Sanchez the director of Parks and Recreation and Hector Chavez, the interim city manager. What one can deduce from the printed accounts is that Herrera was removed from the position of supervisor because he failed to complete some important paperwork that as a result disqualified local children from moving to a next level of competition. According to one source, this was the second time that these children had been eliminated in the same manner. On the other hand, Herrera contends that he was removed in retaliation for writing a 14-page complaint where he alleged that he was unable to work satisfactorily because of Jorge Sanchez, director of Parks and Recreation. It appears that on Friday he was summoned to the interim city manager's office. The reason for this meeting is not clear. One must assume the meeting was in reference to this adverse action but at some point Herrera walks out of the meeting and is followed by the city manager, the director of Parks and Recreation and Jorge Sanchez, head of the city's Human Resource department. Herrera stated that after he walked out of Chavez's office he headed for the Mayor's office to inform him of the situation.

As of today, Joe Herrera is no longer supervisor of Parks & Recreation but continues as a city employee. While many feel badly about these children that were unable to move up in competition, I am sure others are very interested in knowing what is contained in the 14-page complaint. Lets hope that in the spirit of promised transparency, that the public is told the truth.

I need to go to sleep

2008-06-16T01:18:00.000-05:00

The reason why my entries are lagging behind is quite simply because I don't have much to say about anything in particular. I spend enough time reading other blogs and some of them are so insightful, at times even meaningful that it puts me to shame...real shame. If I had to do it over again I would have liked to be a writer that could express thoughts to writing in a way everyone could appreciate. Lately I have enjoyed doing photography just for fun and it makes me feel good. Since my retirement from State, I have tried joining groups but find it difficult to talk about retirement. Somehow it doesn't feel like its over to some extent. I have to stop myself from thinking about starting another "project." My current activity is to eliminate clutter. I have too many books that have not been read and just as many that have. I also have too many wire connectors and power adapters that were used on things I no longer have. And as you can see...I just wasted my time in writing something about nothing. Its 1:14 am....I need to go to sleep. Good night.

About the Stadium

2008-05-21T16:20:00.001-05:00

I have read several email messages from alumni that live in Eagle Pass and others that don’t , asking if I can post information about the stadium project. I’ve agreed to gather as much information as I can but will direct my inquiries to our district board members. I have a gut feeling that they will respond accordingly. I assume that all of our board members have computer access and our communications should not be a problem. I invite our audience to submit any questions they feel are pertinent. The Stadium page should be up shortly.

I dare you.....

2008-05-13T13:03:00.005-05:00

"I dare you." So many years ago when we were really kids and the downtown arroyo was our playground, this was our initiation into what I now consider stupidity. As a kid I grew up near the downtown area on Jefferson. It was on the banks of the arroyo that we built our caves, which because of the soft dirt, could have collapsed on us. Summer was really the best of times. Our cowboy and Indian skirmishes were not just verbal "pow...I got you" but we used our daisy bb guns and never got used to the sting of bb's making their target on your back as you ran through the brush. It was a time when our parents would not have taken our bb guns away if they knew. They would have told us to be careful and leave it at that. These were good years for kids. It was a time free of marauding sexual predators. Just like our pets, we navigate safely across streets never having to hold hands to do it. As brave as we were, crossing the pipe over the arroyo was something to think about. But once done, you earned the right to utter the words, "I dare you."

freedom of information has its price..

2008-04-25T13:33:00.001-05:00

In an effort to quell the rumor that a new business is opening in Eagle Pass, I decided to call their corporate office because they love to announce their expansions into new markets and so on. I soon found out that they do not have a corporate number listed so I decided to start at the bottom and call customer service and explained why I wanted to talk to the higher ups. The lady was polite but immediately assumed that tone of voice that we have all heard when they are not going to help you. I describe that tone as a curt, staccato and almost metallic sound. Its sounds like the time someone told you “I’m sorry but the manager is not here so there is nothing we can do.” The lady asked what I needed and I explained that I wanted to speak with someone at corporate level about a rumor that his or her chain was opening a new store in Eagle Pass. “No that is not true” was her answer. “No it’s not true and besides that information is confidential and I can not disclose it,” she said. My answer was, “ I know you may not be able to disclose it that is why I am asking to speak to your corporate level people.” I felt I was not going to get through her so I asked her, “So, if I write that according to Jennifer; a company spokesperson, your company is not opening a new store in Eagle Pass, I would not be lying…correct?”

My frustration reminded me of another attempt I had made at getting information but this time I was sure I could get it because my request was so simple.

That was the time I asked the City of Eagle Pass for the list of the applicants for the city manager’s position. I sent my request via email from San Antonio. As the day went by I grew anxious but after four days I got a reply from the city secretary via email that my information was ready and that I needed to come by their offices in Eagle Pass for the list. But I also needed to pay the City of Eagle Pass ten cents for the copy.

So as you can see, freedom of information has its price.

Cynicism is growing...

2008-04-12T11:51:00.001-05:00

Cynicism is described as an attitude of scornful or jaded negativity, especially a general distrust of the integrity or professed motives of others. Cynicism is growing at the national level, as we feel helpless in stopping the escalating fuel prices, increase in food costs, increase in college tuitions, mounting foreclosures and lost jobs.

We have been dependent on government to intervene and help. But as reported in a recent report that is not happening, at least not yet. In the meantime our bad economic condition has meant fewer cable channels, more meals at home, postponed doctor appointments, missed vacations and delayed credit card payments.

Among the many thoughts that go through my mind on a daily basis, I often try to rationalize the root of the cynicism that permeates our community and not only from those that have done without but from those that are marginally successful.

Many in our community look at our local elected officials to step in and do something but we quickly realize that if the Federal government can’t stop the problem at the national level what hope is there for us at the local level.

The only thing that fuels the discontent is that our local political candidates keep making promises in exchange for votes. They promise to bring industry knowing well that it is difficult and in many cases almost impossible. Some are critical because new businesses offer only minimum wage opportunities and not the industry wages once promised.

While there may be no solutions to the escalating economic distress, we can ask our elected officials, boards and those in charge to be frugal and not flaunt our taxpayer money in choices that do not serve our community or us.

About Banning on Guestbook...

2008-03-05T18:46:00.001-06:00

From Teacher: I'm all for it webmaster. But, where do you draw the line. Politics is an interesting subject, unfortunately it deals with many different aspects and opinions. Not that I condone the behavior of some alumni. Some of these people need to get educated on what they fight for. If this is a teaching moment than so be it. A well rounded, moralistic and knowledgeable person, may it be a professional or not must atleast try to appease the situation. Even if we have to conform to their level of perspective.

Dear Teacher: I do admit that we must accept the fact that if a public official is not performing in the interest of the community that it needs to be pointed out. Politicians should know that the public has a right to make their opinions known. A sampling of what we have had to remove; that in most cases few get to see; include an accusation that a certain elected official was stealing money. The official's name was given and no other facts. Another example named a school educator that was having an affair with another named individual. We must also recognized that this started out to be a guestbook and it has ended up being a gossip column. Althought we have created an additional guestbook for those that want to post friendly or personal messages, few use it because it does not have juicy stuff. To answer the question of where do I draw the line, I draw the line when the intent is clearly malicious. I don't know about you but I don't care to know who is having an affair. That is not important to me although it might be important to others. If the morality of educators is important then contact someone who can do something about it. You should also know that anyone who creates a media (guestbook) for others to make comments, shares a legal responsibility or liability because he makes it possible for that person to libel someone else. I have had to answer to attorneys in the past because of someone's belief that their malicious comment was a matter of freedom of speech. Just today I dealt with another problem where I talked with the parents of someone that posted a troubling message. Keep in mind that yesterday we had 5,976 people visit our website and of those I only had one problem. You mentioned that politics deals with many different aspects and opinions. I agree with you 100%. Personally I enjoy politics as much as others like sports. One of my degrees is in Political Science and it has been an interest of mine even when I attended Webster Elementary. Politics should not be taken as serious as it is and comments and opinions should be stated freely without any concern for retribution. After 12 years of having our website online I know that most politicians visit the site daily and they provide me with the information that is sometimes needed. During this last local elections someone was writing that one of the candidates had a long criminal history and nothing else. I didn't think that was fair because the insinuation was damaging and the writer refused to be specific. In conclusion, I don't pretend to think that this site has some noble cause and that it is the pillar of our community. This is just a simple site that anyone can create.

malicious and disparaging comments...

2008-02-29T10:58:00.000-06:00

Dear Mr. Castillo,

First and foremost, let me say that I enjoy your website very much. I appreciate you taking the time to do this so that we can all keep up with the happenings in Eagle Pass. I am however, bothered that you post letters and do not require individuals to identify themselves as in the case of the letter supporting Ms. Glays Gonzalez. It takes courage to speak up for or against a person, subject, etc., therefore, I believe individuals should be required to identify themselves. Thank you for taking the time to read my correspondence.

Answer: I appreciate your visits to our site. Its an unfortunate fact that throughout our country almost all media including newspapers, allow comments to be published without the authors name. It happens in San Francisco, Miami, New York and San Antonio. It also happens in Eagle Pass. Be that as it may, I do have the ability to determine the origin of most messages in the event a libelous issue arises. But lets also recognize that this site was developed in 1995 with the aim on alumni as our target base. That means that we at least have 12 years of formal education and in many other cases, much more. With this in our favor, we can tell where the message is coming from and are free to disagree and publish our own viewpoint. I suppose that in a perfect situation no comment would be posted without a name. But ask yourself, what is to keep someone from using an alias. I also need to point out that to the chagrin of those that post malicious and disparaging comments, we do block their use of our site. We do that often. In conclusion, I also know that the only way I can stop the type of messages that bothered you would be to close the site completely. Believe me I have done that twice in the 13 years the site has been online. So, I hope you continue to visit us inspite of this imperfection. Roberto Castillo

Financial Fumble....

2008-02-28T23:40:00.002-06:00

The news was not good for Judson ISD tonight and it made me think about EPISD's fate if the same scenario develops here. In a news report out of San Antonio, it was reported that Judson ISD may have to look for additional funds to complete a new stadium which replaces the old Rutledge Stadium. At the initial stages of construction, it has already been determined that the 10 million bond passed by Judson in 2006 for a new stadium will not be enough to complete the project. In order to complete the stadium, Judson is going to need an additional 40% or 4 million. This is because the costs that are coming in are higher than what they anticipated. Although their original projection made allowances for a rising inflation rate, the increase was much more. EPISD's calculates that our new stadium will be completed with 22 million. I only hope that we did a better job than Judson at estimating the total cost including the inflation factor.

Opted for caution....

2008-02-24T12:06:00.002-06:00

I am slowing coming to a personal realization that too many times I have opted for caution in not making my viewpoint known. There have been issues that come up in our community and I stood on the sidelines much as a spectator. But as a spectator I do more than simply watch, I continue to talk with many on both sides of the issues. I do this all the time and I appreciate those that are willing to talk to me with much candor. As always I respect their opinions. During some of these different conversation I have been told that our community has a characteristic that may not be found in other communities of the same size and economic standing. In our community, a great majority will oppose any proposition. Many are predisposed to line up on one side with and equal number facing off on the other side. Even when little is known about the issue. During my contacts, I have called persons that I know would be very good candidates and some have said that they won't serve because no matter what your credential, idea or personality is, on day one you will have 50% against you. So I suppose that my caution to express my viewpoints freely may have derived out of that same notion.. that I will be challenged by at least 50% if not more. But perhaps its time to test this hypothesis and see if I am correct.

Legal Bravado..

2008-02-04T11:38:00.000-06:00

Our city elected officials have another critical decision to make at tomorrow's city council meeting. You will remember that over a month ago, our ex-city manager Glen Starnes recommended that two city employees be fired for specific reasons. Starnes presented this to the council and they voted to approve his recommendation and as a result, both were fired. The specific reasons will probably never be known. In matters of this type, generalities are commonly used to protect those being fired. The question that the council must determine is whether these specific reasons are valid regardless of Starnes credibility. Most specifically, can they stand the test in court in the event the whole matter goes into litigation. If the allegations can not pass this test then amends should be initiated if the two employees chose to return to city employment. The Council should not be tempted to engage in legal bravado and continue this sad chapter at the cost of taxpayer's money. This is also a good time to do what many other municipalities have done and set up a citizens ethic committee to oversee some questionable issues.

Can anyone really explain it....

2008-01-21T16:54:00.000-06:00

We hear that the county is deeply in debt but beyond that we do not know the extent. The current condition no doubt impacts on services and taxpayer's expectations for needed county improvements. As long as we don't know the exact indebtedness, we will assume that the condition is beyond repair. That leads to the question of whether anyone in the county can fix the problem. Seeing what is happening across the country shows us that the problem exists in many other places as well. While its tempting to ask commissioners to forego their salaries, the savings may not be much of a solution. Instead commissioner's should let us know how serious the problem is and help explore serious solutions that are working in other parts of the state.

Sad chapter apparently over...

2008-01-13T11:52:00.000-06:00

With another sad chapter apparently over, I am left to wonder just how many other false credentials have elevate others in professional positions in our town.

What has happened in Eagle Pass also occurred in San Antonio and involved city firemen that received sizeable increases in pay if they had a "degree". Auditors found that degrees not recognized by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board abounded. So now they found themselves dealing with a mammoth problem of returning those with such degrees to a level commensurate with their scholastic attainment. They also had to decide whether to demand the return of money that was wrongfully paid.

Management experts admit that the use of questionable credentials has increased dramatically and attribute this to the growing cost of higher education. They also recognized a personality trait of some that have a proclivity to excel no matter what it takes.

But the perplexing question has to be whether we have other such degrees in any of the other public agencies in Maverick County. Perhaps this would be a good Monday assignment for all public administrators to task someone to check.

Ethical Stardards and more...

2008-01-10T19:42:00.000-06:00

Members of our city council are now facing the dilemma of keeping Glen Starnes as our city manager even though he has publicly admitted that he lied about his credentials when he applied for the position he now holds. And now hundreds have heard that from his own lips through the YouTube innovation. If that was not enough, his admission was again seen, heard and broadcasted by newscaster Chris Marrou on KENS-TV in San Antonio. This simple disclosure would suffice in reaching a decision about his future employment. In the realm of professional competition, falsely enhancing one's achievements and scholastic qualifications has to be deplored because it goes against a higher standard that recognizes that pursuing a higher education is a matter of determination, effort and at times sacrifice. The Council has made their collective decision to overlook this discrepancy and continue on with business. For those of us that cherish what we have legitimately attained after many year in institutions of higher learning, we must not grow cynical but proudly continue to compete against each other in a fair and honest manner.

the message that needs to be heard....

2008-01-04T12:49:00.000-06:00

The decision to go after those with arrest warrants issued for failure to appear in municipal court is definitely a step is the right and legal direction. Not only will it serve to bring in fines, which will support the operation of the court, but also it will send the message that needs to be heard. Not too long ago I remember hearing from a candidate for justice of the peace say that if elected he would take into consideration that many local residents are poor and don't have the money to pay fines. If elected, he would take that into consideration in dispensing justice. I can empathize with drivers who are fined for not having auto insurance because they don't have the income. I have no sympathy for the ones that get cited for driving while intoxicated. If they can afford the alcohol they should be able to afford the fine. Our town like countless other communities offers periods of amnesty which allows offenders to settle their fines through time payment agreements. Amnesty should only be allowed for specific offenses and not for all. So is there something else that can allow offenders to pay their fines. Yes there is.

Our unfounded cynicism...

2008-01-03T11:31:00.000-06:00

Do you ever wonder just how bad the drug trafficking was four or five years ago? I remember our community’s initial reluctance to admit that we had a drug problem in our small town. Just yesterday, authorities confiscated 24 pounds of cocaine and in the week prior, larger amounts have been confiscated. It would be an eye-opener if we got to see the total seizures for this last year. We can assume that trafficking through our port of entry has gotten more difficult because of our emphasis on securing our border and all the money being expended on increased vigilance. I guess we can speculate that this amount of trafficking has been going on for many years and went undetected until now. We must also realize that a simple traffic stop by law enforcement officers has yield large quantities of drugs. And yet, our unfounded cynicism attributes these illegal activities to our surge in new and better homes.

Any missing laptops....?

2008-01-02T17:36:00.000-06:00

I must admit that my memory is not what it use to be considering that I am almost at the verge of claiming my lifetime contribution towards social security. I have also noticed that my recollection is rather selective. I remember many incidents that punctuate the evolution of our municipality most of which involve incidents sometimes like the recent fisticuffs involving our district prosecutor and an agent from ICE. It troubles me when I don't read or hear of the final disposition of these incidents much like what came of the reports of stolen cement sacks from the city yard, the loss of $16000 from the property room, the missing gasoline from the city pumps and the loss of many laptops from our high school. I also wonder what happened to the Police Chief hired from outside EP that defended one of his officers after the officer was pressured for giving one of our top politicians a ticket on Del Rio Boulevard. By the way, I wonder if we have any missing our unaccountable laptops at our schools. Just wondering.

Good Job Yesi..

2007-12-17T11:15:00.000-06:00

This past Saturday was a very special day for one of my best friends, Luis Martinez and his wife Carmen. Reason..their daughter Yesenia received a degree from Sul Ross University in Business. We celebrated Yesenia's educational milestone at a Uvalde restaurant along with their entire family. It was nice to see Eagle Passans getting Masters and BA degrees at a beautiful auditorium. Congrads Yesi.

Running our County government on a shoe string budget

2007-12-13T15:19:00.000-06:00

It has become apparent that Maverick County is suffering financially which has reached a critical stage that forced them to lose emergency services to its constituents this month. It is time for the county to consider “expert” advice on a financial management plan that is based on proven success. This does not mean that they should hire another employee that will draw even more on the salary expense.

The county should look at positions that can be eliminated primarily because they are less essential. Staff travel and related expenses should also be curtailed. Any staff tasked with the economic development aspects of our county should be reassigned because businesses are coming without the county’s efforts. Eagle Pass business growth is promoting itself and they come because “companies are finding that rural communities offer low operating costs, red tape reduction and a stable and loyal work force”.

Department heads must be more creative in the way they do their jobs and utilize their staff. County taxpayers should be more vocal and constructive media scrutiny should assure that county operations are more transparent and accountable to the community.

starting to struggle

2007-11-07T16:08:00.000-06:00

I was very pleased with the passage of the school bond for the construction of a new sports complex. I also understand those that voted against it for fear of escalating taxes. What I am troubled about is the escalating gas prices in Eagle Pass which have reached 3 dollars a gallon. This makes me wish for an improved mass transportation such as nicer buses that kids can take from school to their neighborhoods. It works in SA and it would work in EP if the cost to ride would be reasonable. I think EP needs to look after themselves and come up with workable solutions to make life easier for those that are struggling or starting to struggle.

Good job.....

2007-09-06T00:11:00.000-05:00

Almost a week ago I commented that our local governmental entities should consider selecting a press secretary (vocera oficial) who would be responsible for press briefings as often as needed. This of course would free the administrators from such a chore and they could start their day with the actual business of the day.

My congratulations to the City of Eagle Pass and especially to Marga Lopez who has been chosen for that duty. Marga has represented our city in an admirable manner and her credibility is impeccable. While some media will try to circumvent this new process, it is important that the city hold firm and give this new change a chance.

You are cordially invited.....

2007-08-13T23:21:00.000-05:00

I must say that it is truly refreshing to read that city councilwoman Asalia Cazares has urged local citizens to participate in council meetings and to bring their issues before the City. I am sure she is sincere about her invitation which sets the perfect forum for those that are ardently "vocal" in our guestbooks. Now you can go before our local governance and express you ideas or problems.

So be it.....

2007-08-10T01:23:00.000-05:00

Its 1:04 am on Friday and I can't sleep so here I am. I want to say something about the story that appeared in a local newspaper which reports that our new city manager was asked by a news reporter for a "direct payment with the threat that if he did not comply, attacks through news coverage would follow."

This is nothing new since many of us have heard similar stories. Others have said that those running for political positions in our community often are approached by the local media and offered favorable coverage for a price. And savvy campaign managers accept the practice as a necessary evil.

Perhaps the time has come for all public agencies including the school, county and city to designate a public information employee who can feed the stories every morning to all reporters. This if nothing else will free our administrators to do the job they are suppose to do each day. And if the news is bad, so be it.

a senseless event...

2007-07-28T01:03:00.000-05:00

Forty three years ago I was literally confronted and challenged to a fistfight by someone I had never met. He knew my name. This happened during lunchtime as I walked from the old high school to the cafeteria at the old Junior High. It didn’t take long to realize that he was purposely blocking my way to force the fight. The valiant thing to do at that time was to agree to fight after school behind the Charcoal. That initial confrontation was like an out of body experience especially when I heard myself agreeing to meet him for the duel. For the next four hours I sat in class thinking of ways to back out of the fight. I felt it was going to be an embarrassing situation. I was not good at fighting and I had no experience at all. As the hours dragged on, others would inform me that they planned to be there in support. I soon learned that my opponent was an experienced fighter, street smart and was not in school. I remember counting the final seconds for school to let out so I could go face this person that hated me so much that he wanted to hurt me.

Luckily the fight did not last long. I was told that word had reached school administrators and everyone started running when they saw Mr. Ibarra driving up. This is one moment in my life that is so vivid. I am reminded of this senseless event every time I see the scar on my left forearm. I also wonder why he wanted to hurt me.

We made the pigeon sick

2007-02-21T16:56:00.000-06:00

In the past weeks much has been written about our behavior and how others behave. I must admit that I may have been responsible for inciting people’s reaction. What I did…innocently was to post something I called “you think you had a bad day??” My intent was to share my daily frustrations with those that serve us and those we serve. Basically it was to deal with customer service. I brought this up because of the surge of new businesses not only in San Antonio, where I live, but also Eagle Pass. Friends of mine that manage such places all tell me the same thing; customer service often makes the difference in repeat business. I must agree because there is one place I will never go again because of their bad food but they topped it off with unfriendly service. But it is true that customer service is important to the customer. It should also be very important to the manager and its employees.

On the other hand, customers need to know that they are not always right. God knows who created that saying but it is a big lie. A business or employee should not bow to any customer who chooses to treat an employee without respect. Berating an employee says more about what kind of customer you are. Let me tell you that business people know but do not talk about a growing number of “customers” that basically “rent” goods by often returning what they bought after they have no more use for it and return it in deplorable condition. If refused a refund, they will do everything to embarrass anyone behind the counter. Their favorite final word, “I am going to the media.”

So lets stop talking about what businesses have to do. How about the customer, you and I, start by keeping our community stores clean. I don’t mean that we must sweep them clean; I mean don’t get them dirty.

I know times have changed from the days that our mothers and fathers would make us pick up after ourselves and we were not allowed to leave our mess around. Lets draw on that when we are in a clothing store. Lets stop unraveling shirts, pants, dresses, blouses and throwing them back on a heap. When you miss the heap and they fall on the floor, pick it up. Remember that the store attendant did not mess it up. If you think that it’s their job to pick up after us, stop and think about it.

All store parking lots have trash cans so use them. If you cannot leave your trash inside your car in an empty plastic bag, then walk over to the trash can and leave it there. You will feel good and you are setting and maintaining what should be a community standard. The the worst of all social infractions is dispensing soiled diapers in store parking lots. Worse yet when you see pigeons, crackles and other birds feasting on what belongs in a sewer treatment plant. Above is the pigeon in EP that could not fly after feasting.

How about the empty plastic bags snagged on the fences along Highway 57. Must we blame the city or the county officials for such blight? How about starting with those that throw them out the window as they leave Eagle Pass. Again, you will find trash cans that are there for us to use. But if you feel that we have a right to disposed of them in that manner because we are taxpayers…stop and think about it. Or do you think that our public officials like our store attendant should pick up after us? Please.

Ft. Duncan Club

2007-01-24T12:20:00.000-06:00

One of our fellow alumni has suggested that our community should consider rebuilding the old Ft. Duncan Club and the idea has stuck with me. Is it possible?...yes. Is anyone willing to front such a proposal?...maybe. This is what I think. First, I believe the property belongs to the city. Any contractor worth his money would be able to rebuilt using some of the existing material as long as they meet city codes. How would it be financed. Privately, without tax money. There are enough businesses in town that would have use of such a club and there are hundreds that would pay for membership. I'm curious to know if anyone out there is giving this some thought.

Pop-up..pests

2006-12-31T12:41:00.000-06:00

I have lived long enough to remember the popularity of CB radios many years ago and along with others form a Maverick County chapter of REACT. React monitored channel 9 for emergency calls and we handled plenty. We were able to correct misuse by newcomers to CB and believe we were responsible in getting help to those in need. Slowly CB use declined because of abuse and lack of civility. Much like graffiti taggers, some used it to express their vulgarity. While many continue to use it, it is no longer as popular as before.

So now what is to become of internet use? While we are able to block and track abusers, we are almost helpless to fend off the POP-UPS. I have researched this subject looking for a solution to this problem which has become so bad that I have to restart my computer to clear all of them. I have tried Roadrunner's pop-up blocker software and also Adware and many others but in reading more about this growing problem, the experts admit that pop-ups can not be effectively eliminated and we will have to live with it. In these same articles, we are told that companies like Google, Yahoo, New York Times and other major companies are now using pop-ups to advertise. I may hold on to my computer longer than I did to my CB radio.

No more dying.

2006-10-22T21:17:00.000-05:00

Tonight was quite a departure for Andy Rooney on 60 minutes when he spent all his time asking the question, "Why are we in Iraq?". Surprising was the seriousness of his demeanor during the broadcast. I felt good hearing that because I have had growing concerns about the ongoing war with no end. I have not been vocal about my sentiment concerning this subject, not because it may be seen as a betrayal to all those that served and in some cases die. I was not really sure how I felt about it. I think I must join Rooney and the many others that can no longer justify the deaths of our youngsters.

Zeros...

2006-10-07T13:47:00.000-05:00

Ok..here I go again. You can say that I got into computers on December 23,1976 on the day I drove to San Antonio from Eagle Pass and bought an Apple IIe. Computers were simple..with no need for virus protection. Computer were too expensive and not necessarily in the hands of zeros. (Zeros are people that have no value and only occupy space.) I used mine for work, doing sorts for program eligibility and completing long repetitious government forms. I was truly a time saver. Now, its very different. I recently signed up for DSL and the first thing I noticed was the speed. I was very pleased with the performance and even more with the offer of a virus protection program touted as one of the best because of it updates. For the first month I was able to accomplish more work both on my work assignments and the alumni website. Then I got a pop-up offering me an upgrade to my existing virus protection program. I declined the offer. The offers become relentless. I ran my original virus program every day but the advertisements kept coming. They were literally offering me programs that would stop themselves from their popups. Now I am getting offers to block spyware, adware and file theft. So the zeros have now become virus protection salesman and may be working for our major DSL providers.

A Step in the Right Direction

2006-07-30T01:56:00.000-05:00

Interested parties are considering using the old hospital for a police statiion and city offices, including municipal court(s). The idea is a good one provided that the cost to operate a building that big is not prohibitive. This offers the city the opportunity to enhance their law enformcement program by offering space to state or federal law enforcment as well. Since its apparent that misdemeanor crimes are growing at a rapid pace, more than one municipal court may be justfied and paid for by adopting a more aggresive fine enforcement. Despite denials, our community is quickly growing into a drug infested town that is affecting our youth and their families. More needs to be done and done quickly. The use of our old hospital building and the programs that can be enhanced would certainly be a step in the right direction.

Taco Cabana cuts cost

2006-06-22T19:04:00.000-05:00

There were many important things happening all over the world today that I should be concerned about and I am. For instance, the bill to designate a day to end the Iraq war failed for lack of support from the Republicans. Another things was the tax increase of 4% which will be tacked on to our home phones and also our cell phones. But day in and day out, we work at our job and at the end of the day, we look forward to getting home, changing to comfortable clothes and having dinner with our family. So this afternoon I decide to stop by Taco Cabana at the intersection of IH 35 and Theo for some faquita tacos. I thought that two should do the trick. That's $1.89 each and with tax (.o82) that comes to $2.00 each. Now how can Taco Cabana call this a taco? Have they not seen what Morales tacos sells at the intersection of Main and Medina? If you must have fajita tacos from Taco Cabana, go to the one on SW Military. One of their's makes three from the one on Theo.

Rambling --Continued

2006-06-22T15:33:00.000-05:00

I stopped on the previous post kinda short because I was told to put out the trash in time for pick up. Let me just say that if any politician in EP is doing anything unethical or illegal, I have not seen it, read it or heard of it. I am old enough to remember the days of Judge Bibb, Stevenson and Pete Rossi. Those were heated elections that invigorated the town. Candidates would block off a street and hold their political rallies...along with good carne asada with all the trimmings. The best ones were held at San Juan Plaza. Those that could not get a place at the table would eat on the hood of their car. Music played for four hours and even the opponent's people would show up for the good meal. Mr. Harper often provided the cooks and steaks that never ran out. Those were the days.

Rambling again..

2006-06-22T15:03:00.000-05:00

I'm posting this because I have not done so in some time. Well I am somewhat dismayed by what is occuring on our message board ( http://www.guestbookcentral.com/guestbook.cfm?guestbook=39955 ). Our locals and those elsewhere are not pleased with our local politicians for unknown reasons. No one will actually say what it is that our elected officials are doing or not doing that upsets them so much. If I may speak for them just to get something down on paper, let me try to guess. Our politicians are not creating high paying jobs. They are not raising the quality of life in EP such as beautiful parks, jogging trails, golf driving ranges, country clubs, camping sites, cleaner streets, night clubs, bowling alleys or allies, water sking (sp), hiking trails other than those along the Rio Grande, a new mall, vocational colleges and miniture golf. Perhaps our locals do not like to see the politician's family members get good jobs in Eagle Pass because it gives the semblance of favoritism. Some might be tired of seeing them at the customary ribbon cuttings uttering the same old speech about how they made it possible for this new business to exists. Perhaps our town would rather see more candidates like Cesar Chavez than those like Henry Cisneros. Its possible that many equate honesty with being humble rather than one with self-assurance. Who knows.

I don't hate Mexicans, I hate Mexico

2006-05-03T15:23:00.000-05:00

I don't hate Mexicans

It's quite surprising to find so many Hispanics that now live in the United States opposing the recent immigrant issues. I am not surprised about my own belief even though there are no so called illegal aliens in my family. My grandparents on my father side came from Mexico but they did it legally. My grandmother on my mother side was actually somewhat of a redneck and often voiced her dislike of Mexican nationals although she married one. That too is surprising to find many elderly grandparents that have some distrust and even distaste for immigrants. You kinda want to ask, what they did to them to turn this diluted rage against those that want to come to this country just like they did.

Getting beyond the rage one such lady explained it this way. "I do not hate Mexicans, I hate Mexico," she said. We were poor but happy but then the United States became too much of a lure and family members urged us to go to the States simply for the goods. "We always brought things from American but we stayed in Mexico. It was a pleasant family life. Our youth respected us and they too were happy. After we left our country and went to America, things changed. We had money and things but a simple life was no longer enough. Families started competing with each other about who had more possessions. We worked harder to stay ahead but in the process; we lost our children and their respect. If Mexico had allowed us to have a decent life we would not have come to America. Mexico is corrupt and it will always be. "

Need facts....anyone

2006-04-27T18:59:00.000-05:00

In a news story out of Eagle Pass, it is being reported that members of the Kikapoo Tribe held a meeting in their District Court. What is confusing is whether this court has the same standing as State District Courts. The article states that a manifest acknowledges that an election was held and that the process must continue and that the will of the Tribe must be respected. The Court met on Kikapoo property and among those present were Makateonenodua and attorney Gloria Hernandez. During this meeting, it was disclosed that Attorney Hernandez receives 10% of the Casino’s revenue as her salary.

Most recent articles covering the developing saga of the Kikapoo have been rather vague. I continue with some of the same questions that are not answered by existing news reports.

I am still curious about the so called “Kikapoo District Court.” In the recent news story it mentions that Dan B. Morgan is the new District Judge named by the current Kikapoo Council. In the same news article, it reports that Dan Naranjo, the previous District Judge was removed by attorney Gloria Hernandez for “giving an order she did not like.” If this is true, what was the order that Naranjo gave that cost him his position?

The article does not mention how this last meeting came about. Did both sides agree to this meeting? And if Judge Morgan has in fact opined that the will of the Kikapoo must prevail, does that mean that the current council will be replaced?

$5.4 Billion profit...1st quarter

2006-04-25T18:45:00.000-05:00

Once again we are being told that the five major oil companies in the United States are enjoying a record profit for the first quarter of this year. At this rate Exxon expects to surpass last years annual profit. We also heard President Bush offering his solution to the problem, which may be a little too late. What has become apparent is that a viable solution is not going to come from his administration. His Republican supporters are now thinking about their chances in November and so we may start to hear from them as well. So what can we do to ease the economic pain of our nation? Personally, I have already started to curtail all recreational driving. I will not be buying any gas-guzzler and I will support any effort to get alternative fuel on the market as soon as possible. And let me say, from one that has always strongly supported the right for business to make a profit, I cannot trust any oil company to help us. They will continue to take our money and blame the war and now Venezuela for their uncontrollable greed. And I am sorry to say......I don’t trust our President anymore.

The Plight of the Kikapoo..history in the making

2006-04-21T19:21:00.000-05:00

History in the making.....

I have been trying to keep up with the plight of the Kikapoo tribe of Eagle Pass by reading everything that is being written concerning the developing story about their tribe and its politics. My interpretation of all these stories tells me that the tribe is under the direction of the officially recognized head. He sits on what is being called a council and they are being adviced by an attorney. This council is responsible with the daily operations of the Kikapoo Casino and everything that takes place on their property or reservation. They have their own security force that carries out the directives from the council.

Recently, an older faction of Kikapoos that were ousted from power in an “election” held another election and by over 80 votes from Kikapoo voters, this older faction was declared winners and were supposed to regain their position. As of today, they have not take their position because the current council will not honor the election. The current faction is supported in their position by the intervention of District Judge Morgan. I am not sure what exactly the District Judge is doing with regards to this disagreement and no article has clarified that at all.

The winning faction has stated that this issue will be taken before the proper court of jurisdiction for a ruling on when and how they should take possession of the council, the Kikapoo Casino and their interests. This is what I know and I assure you someone will step forward and tell me how wrong I am. Please do and then enlightened me.

EP is changing

2006-03-28T16:52:00.000-06:00

Times..they are a'changing..

Here is some constructive praise for our good ole Eagle Pass. Let me say that this praise comes from someone who is highly critical but has learned to wait enough to let things change for the better. My compliment is for the citizens of Eagle Pass who/whom are doing things to our town. Eagle Pass is changing and looking much better. Not only is it clean but some people are fixing up their homes rather than buying those $50,000 empty lots. As much as we hate to see the old Aztec go, it has changed to office spaces in the downtown area. A gazebo and street benches has also added to the downtown area. So there is reason to be optimistic.

A Tribute to Mikey

2006-03-28T16:26:00.000-06:00

A Tribute to Mikey

On Saturday I took my usual place on Ceylon Street and watched our annual Friendship Parade. Most of it was much like last year's with some exceptions. I was pleased to see two entries that acknowledged the passing of Mikey Castillo which paid tribute to him by showing his motorcycle. As told by those around me, Mickey loved riding his motorcycle. It was somewhat emotional to see his friends show their respect for his existence and demise. (Cell phone ringing..will finish later.)

Critical News….at 12, 5 and 10pm

2006-02-12T11:36:00.000-06:00

One of the many things one learns growing up in Eagle Pass is being critical. I really..really feel that our community provides numerous venues for people to be critical of people and the way things are done. There are many news sources that have an inherent attitude and viewpoint about what they report. For example, in San Antonio, there is a sportscaster on KMOL-TV that I have seen for almost a year. In the beginning, he seemed hesitant but in time gained more confidence in his reporting. Apparently he is now so comfortable that all his broadcast start with a critical comment about how players play and owners manage their teams. His criticism has become so prevalent that very little sports news gets air time. In fact, if you want to hear his personal views you tune in but if you are interested in information, you must go elsewhere.

Public Servant

2006-02-03T20:46:00.001-06:00

Yesterday was truly a sad day for Mr. George Dickerson and his family. You see, George had worked for Zachry Construction for 27 years. Somewhere near his home a nightclub had become extremely popular, with patrons coming from all over the city. Police records indicated that as many as 300 calls to that location were made and this was perhaps what made George decide to contact his city councilwoman to express his feelings about the problems this club and its patrons brought into his area. George described some of the patrons as low class that were coming into a higher class area. Apparently George made one mistake in contacting his representative councilwoman, he used the company computer. The councilwoman did not contact George, instead she contact higher ups at Zachry and they in turn fired George. The next day, George committed suicide.