Bloggin' All Things Brownsville

• Blog to Check Out: Digging for Fire

  
  Valley Veteran Ben Christensen's Memoir Project -- Iraq 2004-05.
  
  Click here. [...]
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  Posted: December 06, 2009, 2:58pm EST
  

• Happy Thanksgiving, Brownsville!

  [...]
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  Posted: November 25, 2009, 6:57pm EST
  

• Texas Universities' Open Admissions Policy Closer to Extinction

  UH-Downtown is one of only two Texas universities that offer open admission. The other is the University of Texas at Brownsville. Texas Southern University dropped its open admissions policy in 2008. (Source: Nov. 21 Houston Chronicle article)
  
  UH-Downtown may drop open admissions
  The goal is to remain accessible while [...]
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  Posted: November 21, 2009, 10:00pm EST
  

• A Plastic Bag Perspective.

  [...]
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  Posted: November 19, 2009, 7:06pm EST
  

• [nt]

  [...]
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  Posted: November 18, 2009, 11:08am EST
  

• Why vote Tuesday November 3, 2009 For a Veterans Hospital?

  
  Why vote Tuesday November 3, 2009 For a Veterans Hospital?
  
  
  This Tuesday November 3, 2009 we have a very important election. In fact I would venture to say that this election is more important than, the many boards, commissions, and city, county, [...]
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  Posted: November 01, 2009, 8:00pm EST
  

• City Offers Pet Adoption Special

  
  Thanks to a grant from the Rotary Club of Brownsville Charitable Foundation, anyone who adopts an animal from the Brownsville Animal and Control Center will get an automatic $20 discount. This means the usual $70 fee for a spay/neuter adoption will drop to $50.
  
  [...]
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  Posted: October 29, 2009, 11:03am EDT
  

• Volunteers Needed

  Volunteers needed!!!!
  
  Call:
  Rose Timmer
  Healthy Communities of Brownsville
  956.882.5067
  [www.healthybrownsville.org]
  
  
  Texas Recycles Day- Brownville meeting at the Brownsville Recycle Center on Elizabeth Street. Planning meeting for November 14 event
  
  Public Forum- 6 to 8pm at the ITEC Campus. Banning Plastic Bags will be [...]
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  Posted: October 29, 2009, 9:02am EDT
  

• Texas Municipal League Conference

  I'm currently at the Texas Municipal League Conference in Fort Worth, Texas.
  
  Here is a link to the conference program: [www.tml.org]
  
  The seminars are very informative. At the above link, you will find handouts we are using for many of the seminars. I hope you find' [...]
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  Posted: October 21, 2009, 12:13pm EDT
  

• New Business ... Tommy Boy's Country Farmers Market

  
  
  
  
  
  I discovered this locally owned and recently opened establishment at 1254 Military Hwy. Best of luck to this new small business. For more information, call Tom Rhodes at (956) 621-3446.[...]
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  Posted: October 04, 2009, 10:12pm EDT
  

• 2nd Season of Farmers' Market Opens Saturday

  
  Date of Event: Saturday, October 3, 2009 (8 a.m.-noon)
  Contact Information: Lisa Mitchell-Bennett Mitchell-Bennett@uth.tmc.edu, (956) 466-5657 or Kathy Martin (956) 882-5896
  
  ****************************************************************
  
  The second season of the Brownsville Farmers' Market opens Saturday at Linear Park located on the corner of 6th and' [...]
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  Posted: October 02, 2009, 2:31pm EDT
  

• Stillman House Presents An Old Fashioned Halloween

  
  The Stillman House, in historic downtown Brownsville, invites the public to An Old-Fashioned Halloween from 2-5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 10.
  
  The event is free for Brownsville Historical Association members and is included in the cost of $2 general admission for non-members. BHA members [...]
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  Posted: October 01, 2009, 5:10pm EDT
  

• GBIC Awards $250,000 to VIDA for Workforce Development

  A locally driven initiative for workforce training was approved for $250,000 by the Greater Brownsville Incentives Corporation to support the development and training of 53 area residents.
  
  The Valley Initiative for Development and Advancement (VIDA) is a non-profit organization which helps low-income, unemployed and underemployed individuals obtain the [...]
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  Posted: October 01, 2009, 5:04pm EDT
  

• City Receives $800,000 from Community Development Grant Program

  WASHINGTON--Today, U.S. Rep. Solomon P. Ortiz announced more than $800,000 in funding awarded from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to the City of Brownsville from the Community Development Grant Program.
  
  “Through our Community Development Grant Program, we continue to stimulate our economy, while making jobs available for residents [...]
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  Posted: September 24, 2009, 11:17pm EDT
  

• Report Dissects Money Chase in Guv's Race

  
  A new Texans for Public Justice report, "Senator v. Governor," analyzes the first $29 million raised by GOP gubernatorial candidates Kay Bailey Hutchison and Rick Perry. The report is the most comprehensive look yet at their rival fundraising machines.
  
  "Senator v. Governor" finds evidence [...]
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  Posted: September 22, 2009, 10:38am EDT
  

• Brownsville Appreciation Days at the Gladys Porter Zoo/Oceanarium

  
  
  
  
  
  The Gladys Porter Zoo is offering an entire weekend of admission discounts and events in appreciation for all residents living inside the Brownsville city limits through Sunday. Residents can visit the Zoo for the special admission price of $2. [...]
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  Posted: September 12, 2009, 4:30pm EDT
  

• Rutledge Still Rocks

  [...]
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  Posted: September 12, 2009, 4:29pm EDT
  

• I received ...

  
  
  I received this today in my Yahoo e-mail account. Interesting, but considering it's an education-related commercial, can we please use a basic spell/grammar check?' [...]
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  Posted: September 11, 2009, 3:50am EDT
  

• TODAY: Watch President Obama's Live Address to Schools

  
  
  Whether you like it or not, President Obama IS the leader of this great nation. I don't understand the big deal folks are making about watching his 11 a.m. address to America's students.
  
  His prepared remarks are already posted. Click here.
  
  Here's an excerpt:
  [...]
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  Posted: September 08, 2009, 7:29am EDT
  

• Proposed 2010 City of Brownsville Budget

  
  To review the proposed City of Brownsville 2010 budget, click here. [...]
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  Posted: September 08, 2009, 2:45am EDT
  

• Brownsville Appreciation Days at Glady Porter Zoo Sept. 11-13

  
  I received a behind-the-scenes tour of our Gladys Porter Zoo last week, and I gained a greater appreciation for everything the zoo offers Brownsville with its limited resources. Many do not know that the Zoo is a city-owned facility that annually draws more than 390,000 [...]
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  Posted: September 08, 2009, 1:49am EDT
  

• Dago: Taxation, No Representation

  
  At last week's City Commission meeting, Brownsville resident Dagoberto Barrera provided us, the City Commission, with homework. A copy of an Aug. 25 Freedom News Service column by Tibor R. Machan, Taxation, No Representation, was distributed to each commissioner. I took a moment to' [...]
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  Posted: September 08, 2009, 1:15am EDT
  

• Let's Talk Issues ...

  
  
  
  ... Because I shall continue to refrain from personal attacks during this campaign. Regardless.
  
  I did call Moses Sorola to confirm the rumor I heard about his endorsing my opponent Commissioner Carlos Cisneros. He told me that he met with Commissioner [...]
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  Posted: May 24, 2009, 11:19pm EDT
  

• Join Us.

  Click on Image for Larger View.
  
  [...]
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  Posted: April 20, 2009, 1:21pm EDT
  

• Brownsville-Harlingen Unemployment Rate Highest in State

  The Texas Workforce Commission released unemployment rates for March on Friday.
  
  The Brownsville-Harlingen rate for March was 9.1 percent. In March of 2008, the rate was at 5.9 percent. [...]
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  Posted: April 18, 2009, 11:58pm EDT
  

• Melissa Zamora for City Commissioner District 3

  Hello Folks,
  
  I humbly ask for your support. Please visit my campaign Web site.
  
  Thank you,
  
  Melissa Zamora
  [www.votemelissazamora.com] [...]
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  Posted: March 12, 2009, 3:15pm EDT
  

• Los Huaraches Charro Days PartyTickets are ...

  Los Huaraches Charro Days Party
  Tickets are $35 per person (tickets also available at the door)
  Includes Dinner, Full Bar, Live Band and Mariachis
  Charro Days Attire Encouraged
  Costume Contest
  Begins at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 21
  Brownsville Board of Realtors Building
  1825 Central Blvd.
  For more information, call Eliceo [...]
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  Posted: February 19, 2009, 5:13pm EST
  

• Zavaletta Issues Statement on Defamation Suit Filed Against Cowen

  The below was received today from Brownsville attorney Peter Zavaletta
  ~Melissa
  
  -------------------------------------------------------
  
  February 12, 2009
  
  Brownsville lawyer Peter Zavaletta has filed a defamation suit against Michael Cowen, also of Brownsville. The suit arises out of a newspaper advertisement Cowen published in the Brownsville Herald and Valley Morning [...]
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  Posted: February 16, 2009, 11:27am EST
  

• Zavaletta Files Suit Against Cowen

  Brownsville attorney and former Cameron County District Attorney candidate Peter Zavaletta filed suit Feb. 12 against fellow Brownsville attorney Michael Cowen for defamation of character.
  
  The suit, filed in the 357th Judicial Court, alleges that an advertisement placed by Cowen in The Brownsville Herald and Valley [...]
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  Posted: February 14, 2009, 10:11pm EST
  

• Mayor Opposes Proposed Agreement with DHS

  
  Folks,
  
  Below are two separate releases from the Mayor.
  
  Melissa
  
  --------------------------------------------------
  
  FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
  
  RE: SPECIAL CITY COMMISSION MEETING, FEB. 12, 2009
  
  DATE: February 6, 2009
  
  It has just come to my attention that the proposal being [...]
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  Posted: February 07, 2009, 7:17pm EST
  

• No Border Wall Group Urges City Commission to Avoid "Backroom Deal"

  
  Folks,
  
  Received this release from the No Border Wall group.
  
  Melissa
  
  ---------------------------------
  
  
  For Immediate Release
  February 6, 2009
  Contacts: Elizabeth Garcia 956-459-3205
  Merriwood Ferguson 956-371-5111
  
  Brownsville Citizens Urge City Commission: Don’t Give Away Hope Park in a Backroom Deal [...]
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  Posted: February 06, 2009, 3:10pm EST
  

• City Commission to Consider Border Wall Agreement

  
  Hello folks,
  
  I received the below today from the City Manager's Office.
  
  Melissa
  
  --------------------------------------------------
  
  
  
  February 6, 2009
  
  FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
  
  
  The City of Brownsville is in the unique position to be the only border city between' [...]
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  Posted: February 06, 2009, 2:53pm EST
  

• Official Charro Days Fiesta Blog

  
  Check out the blog.
  
  Click here. [...]
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  Posted: February 05, 2009, 2:05pm EST
  

• Villalobos Expresses Interest in U.S. Attorney Spot

  
  Prosecutors, judges jockey for U.S. attorney spot
  
  For the Houston Chronicle article, click here. [...]
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  Posted: February 03, 2009, 10:16pm EST
  

• Watch Webcast of Unveiling of the 2009 Official Charro Days Poster Wednesday

  
  Hello folks,
  
  Been busy lately with volunteer work, Charro Days publicity being one of them. With the event marking its 72nd year, Publicity Committee Chairman Letty Fernandez recently organized a "new media" team to bring promotion of the event to a new level.
  
  The [...]
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  Posted: February 03, 2009, 5:31pm EST
  

• Hey! What's Up With That?

  
  Howdy folks,
  
  I received this e-mail for the blog from someone seeking to relocate to Brownsville.
  
  Melissa
  
  --------------------------------------------------
  
  hey folks!
  
  I'm thinking about accepting a job offer there but i just can't make up my mind. I don't know enough' [...]
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  Posted: January 24, 2009, 1:04pm EST
  

• City Taps Patterson as Recreational Services Director

  City Manager Charlie Cabler has selected  Christopher T. (Chris) Patterson to be director of the city’s Recreational Services Department.
  
  Patterson, a native of Toledo, Ohio, has worked in that department for seven and one-half years. Patterson is married and the father of three children.
   
  As recreational [...]
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  Posted: January 23, 2009, 9:38am EST
  

• [nt]

  [...]
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  Posted: January 19, 2009, 9:57am EST
  

• I Don't Understand ...

  ... that President Bush's farewell address and the Hudson River plane crash didn't make The Brownsville Herald's front-page news.
  
  Quien Sobby.' [...]
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  Posted: January 16, 2009, 9:30am EST
  

• City Receives State Arts and Humanities Award for Urban Center

  
  City Recreation Manager Chris Patterson today announced that the Texas Recreation and Parks Society (TRAPS) has awarded to the city its 2009 Class II Texas Arts and Humanities Award. The award specifically recognizes the Brownsville Parks and Recreation Department’s Urban Center at Gonzalez Park.
  
  [...]
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  Posted: January 16, 2009, 8:57am EST
  

• Miller Announces Candidacy for District 4 Commissioner

  
  I am here this morning to announce my candidacy for the Dist. 4 seat on the Brownsville City Commission. As some of you know, I have been a citizen who has stayed in touch with what our city government has been doing. My interest is not [...]
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  Posted: January 16, 2009, 8:12am EST
  

• Mayor Responds to Suspension of BISD Superintendent

  Below is a copy of a Letter to the Editor sent to The Brownsville Herald by Mayor Pat Ahumada. The letter was e-mailed to me early this morning.
  
  ~Melissa
  
  ---------------------------------------------------
  
  
  From: Pat Ahumada
  
  To: City Editor
  
  Date: January 14, 2009
  
  Re: BISD Superintendent
  [...]
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  Posted: January 14, 2009, 3:02am EST
  

• Zamora to be Sworn In Today

  
  Newly appointed Precinct 1 Constable Horacio Zamora will be sworn in at 4:30 p.m. today in the County Commissioners' Courtroom at the Dancy Building.
  
  The ceremony will be conducted by Cameron County Judge Carlos Cascos.
  
  The public is invited.' [...]
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  Posted: January 12, 2009, 1:15pm EST
  

• Report: Cameron County on Dangerous Dozen List for Freight and Rail Passenger Safety in Texas

  
  A report released today by the Texas Rail Relocation and Improvement Association lists Cameron County in its "Dangerous Dozen" list of the most dangerous counties for freight and rail passenger safety in Texas.
  
  The report, “Dangerous Dozen: Rail Safety in Texas,” lists the 12 [...]
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  Posted: January 08, 2009, 7:33pm EST
  

• Camarillo Launches Campaign Web Site

  
  
  Click here. [...]
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  Posted: January 08, 2009, 9:41am EST
  

• Desal Pilot Study Report Released

  
  Pilot study results from consultant NRS Consulting Engineers have confirmed that seawater desalination on the shore of the Ship Channel in Brownsville is technically feasible, according to the International Desalination & Water Reuse Quarterly industry Web site.
  
  “The final Texas Seawater Desalination Demonstration [...]
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  Posted: January 07, 2009, 6:42pm EST
  

• Brownsville United Summit Jan. 15

  Thirteen different governmental agencies and entities are scheduled to participate in the first-ever “ Brownsville United Summit” January 15, 5-7 p.m. at the Events Center, 1 Events Center Boulevard.
  
  This summit is aimed at centralizing issues and projects that are common to the entire area. Local state representatives [...]
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  Posted: January 07, 2009, 6:12pm EST
  

• Garcia Highlights Security Fence, Academics At Spring Convocation

  
  A 10-foot-tall southern campus property line fence being built as part of a border security deal with the federal government is almost finished, and the campus community and residents can plant for its future at a February event.
  
  “Many still hunger for a way [...]
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  Posted: January 07, 2009, 6:07pm EST
  

• Mayor Opposes Zoning That Allow World's Gym to Become a Bar

  
  Press release
  
  Date: January 6, 2009
  
  
  Due to the upcoming State Legislative Session and preparation for funding requests for Brownsville's needs and projects that required my travel to Austin, Texas, my absence from tonight's City Commission meeting is necessary and I extend [...]
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  Posted: January 06, 2009, 4:52pm EST
  

• Congressman Ortiz Nominated to Transportation and Infrastructure Committee

  Congressman Solomon Ortiz has been nominated to the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, according to the Speaker of the House Web site.
  
  The House Democratic Steering Committee began its nominations to various committees with the 111th Congress beginning today.
  
  Rep. Nancy Pelosi was elected Speaker [...]
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  Posted: January 06, 2009, 4:45pm EST
  

• Camarillo to Announce Bid for Re-election Today

  
  District 4 City Commissioner Edward Camarillo will announce his bid for re-election at 4:30 p.m. today on the steps of City Hall. [...]
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  Posted: January 06, 2009, 11:35am EST
  

• AIDS Survival Project Casino Night Fund-raiser Jan. 24

  
  
  Donations sought for prizes. Contact info above.
  
  ~Melissa [...]
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  Posted: January 06, 2009, 11:32am EST
  

• Cameron County to Streamline Court System for $3.7M

  Tyler Technologies Inc., a North Texas company that provides government entities with information management assistance, said today the company has inked a $3.7 million contract with Cameron County to provide the county with the firm’s courts and justice software.
  
  The software program allows local entities, like Cameron County, to [...]
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  Posted: January 05, 2009, 5:08pm EST
  

• Officials Speak on Legislative Agenda Concerning Infrastructure Spending

  
  
  State Sen. Eddie Lucio Jr. (D-Brownsville), State Rep. Dr. Tara Rios Ybarra (D-Kingsville) and TxDOT Executive Director Amadeo Saenz Jr. speak with journalist Ron Whitlock on infrastructure spending in the state's 2009 Legislative agenda and I-69.
  
  Source: Ron Whitlock Reports. [...]
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  Posted: January 05, 2009, 4:23pm EST
  

• Mayor Pushes Legislative Agenda

  
  From: Mayor, Pat Ahumada
  
  Date: January 5, 2009
  
  Re: Austin Trip
  
  
  I will be traveling today to Austin to meet with Texas Border Coalition members in preparation for the upcoming State Legislative Session and will attend a TXDOT conference and reception [...]
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  Posted: January 05, 2009, 3:45pm EST
  

• Mayor Stands United With Texas Border Coalition

  
  From: Pat Ahumada
  
  Date: January 3, 2008
  
  Subject: Border Wall
  
  It has been brought to my attention by Department of Home Land Security through the Texas Border Coalition that preparation to build the Border Wall will commence this WEEK in Cameron County, [...]
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  Posted: January 05, 2009, 3:29pm EST
  

• May everyone have a Merry Christmas! God ...

  May everyone have a Merry Christmas! God Bless!
  
  -Melissa [...]
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  Posted: December 24, 2008, 12:04pm EST
  

• Chertoff Retirement Party Jan. 10 at Galeria 409

  Below is an invite from the No Border Wall Coalition and Galeria 409. --Melissa
  
  During his illustrious career, Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff has driven a wall through the borderlands, thrown out the laws that protect us, imprisoned immigrant families, and set a new low in the response to [...]
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  Posted: December 22, 2008, 9:05pm EST
  

• Today's Special

  
  A bit blurry, but the Capt. Bob's Restaurant marquee on Price Road reads: B.I.S.D. Seems Unfair. [...]
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  Posted: December 19, 2008, 5:12pm EST
  

• Watch UTB-TSC's Graduation Ceremony Live!

  Check out tomorrow's live Webcast of UTB-TSC's 14th Annual Winter Commencement Ceremony.
  
  Graduation starts at 9 a.m. Saturday at the Cardenas Hall South Lawn.
  
  Click here.
  
  More than 1,000 students are eligible to walk the stage.
  
  The number of students graduating [...]
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  Posted: December 19, 2008, 4:48pm EST
  

• Sports Park Grand Opening Tonight

  Grand Opening of the Brownsville Sports Park
  
  Gates open at 6:30 pm
  
  1000 Sports Park Blvd
  
  (off the Merryman Rd. Exit on Expressway 77/83) [...]
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  Posted: December 19, 2008, 4:21pm EST
  

• BPD: Bank Teller Identifies Mayor as Invididual Who Deposited Vendor Check Into Mayor's Personal Account

  
  Below is a release from the Brownsville Police Department ~Melissa
  
  Investigation of the $26,139.00 check deposited into
  Mr. Pat Ahumada’s account.
  
  The summary contained in this media release is based on facts and evidence gathered through the investigation.
  
  On October 22, 2008 [...]
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  Posted: December 19, 2008, 3:57pm EST
  

• What I Want for Christmas ...

  [...]
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  Posted: December 18, 2008, 4:03pm EST
  

• Colunga Files Suit Against Brownsville Bloggers

  Updated to reflect correction in plaintiffs' attorney. -mz
  
  
  Joe Colunga filed suit today for himself and his son against blogger Robert “Capt. Bob” Sanchez and blogger/journalist Juan Montoya for libel and defamation.
  
  The suit references an Dec. 7 article on Sanchez’s blog, [...]
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  Posted: December 17, 2008, 2:48pm EST
  

• Chief Garcia Responds to Questions Concerning Vendor Check Deposited Into Mayor's Personal Account

  Last week, I e-mailed questions to Sgt. Jimmy Manrrique pertaining to the $26,000 vendor check that was deposited into Mayor Pat Ahumada's personal account. I was later asked to forward my questions to Chief Carlos Garcia. Chief Garcia promptly responded. Although the responses are brief, I believe his response to [...]
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  Posted: December 17, 2008, 12:26pm EST
  

• SACS Reaffirms UTB-TSC Accreditation

  The Commission on Colleges for the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools has reaffirmed the accreditation of The University of Texas at Brownsville and Texas Southmost College.
  
  The announcement was made at the organization's annual meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 9, in San Antonio.
  
  
  "We are very pleased [...]
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  Posted: December 09, 2008, 1:38pm EST
  

• Barnes Resigns as Scorpions' Head Volleyball Coach

  John Barnes, head coach of the Scorpion women's volleyball team, has resigned, Director of Athletics Vernon Mummert announced Monday.
  
  Barnes took over as the team's head coach in June. UTB-TSC finished the 2008 season with a 10-23 record and was eliminated in the Red River [...]
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  Posted: December 09, 2008, 8:49am EST
  

• Renaissance Man: The Mulitalented Mr. Schnabel of Brownsville, Texas

  
  Watch CBS Videos Online
  
  Note: Mention of his Brownsville, Texas upbringing begins at 6:12. Report released today on CBS 60 Minutes Web site. [...]
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  Posted: December 08, 2008, 4:05pm EST
  

• Christmas Needs List

  UPDATE: I want to thank those folks who have already contacted me to donate items as requested on this list. To donate items, you may call LOVE, INC directly at 233-1844. Thank you, and God Bless! - Melissa
  
  
  Special thanks to Brownsville Community Fellowship, [...]
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  Posted: December 08, 2008, 10:16am EST
  

• Cabler: Police Investigating Missing Vendor Check Possibly Linked to Mayor Ahumada

  
  The Brownsville Police Department is investigating the deposit of a $26,000 check into a personal account traced to a Brownsville bank, according to City Manager Charlie Cabler.
  
  Late last month, a technology vendor from New York contacted the city about non-payment for services. An [...]
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  Posted: December 03, 2008, 4:05pm EST
  

• The Cyclical Pat on the Back?

  
  The Brownsville Navigation District Board of Commissioners will consider awarding a Security Systems Integration contract with Sec-Ops, Inc. at Wednesday's 6 p.m. regular meeting.
  
  If awarded the contract, Sec-Ops, Inc. will provide security systems integration services under the Port Security Grant.
  
  Let's break [...]
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  Posted: December 01, 2008, 5:51pm EST
  

• BND Board to Discuss FY 2009 Operating Budget, Selection of Delinquent Tax Firm

  
  The Brownsville Navigation District Board of Commissioners will hold a 5:30 p.m. workshop Wednesday to discuss the fiscal year 2009 operating budget for the Port of Brownsville.
  
  During the board's 6 p.m. regular meeting, the law firm of Linebarger, Goggan, Blair and Sampson LLP, [...]
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  Posted: December 01, 2008, 5:14pm EST
  

• Bring "Christmas" Back!

  [...]
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  Posted: December 01, 2008, 5:04pm EST
  

• Program Sends Brownsville Soldier on Holiday Vacation

  
  2 Wounded Soldiers To Enjoy Holidays In N.H.
  
  JACKSON, N.H. (AP) ― Two wounded soldiers and their families will enjoy an old-fashioned New Hampshire Christmas thanks to a new program that started with one family's generosity and has spread to an entire town.
  
  [...]
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  Posted: December 01, 2008, 4:52pm EST
  

• Happy Thanksgiving!

  
  I hope you and yours have a Happy Thanksgiving! Be safe and enjoy your holiday with your family and friends! Life is good, and we have much to be grateful for.
  
  God Bless!
  
  ~Melissa [...]
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  Posted: November 27, 2008, 8:59am EST
  

• Rep. Lucio Files Bills Supporting Veterans

  State Representative Eddie Lucio III (D-Brownsville) filed bills today in support of Texas veterans. These two bills will address issues related to educational and business opportunities for veterans.
  
  "This session, the Legislature has the opportunity to pass legislation that will greatly impact the lives of [...]
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  Posted: November 17, 2008, 1:27pm EST
  

• UTB-TSC Hires Athletic Director

  The University of Texas at Brownsville and Texas Southmost College will announce a new member of its team at today's "Meet the Scorpions Media Day."
  
  Vernon Mummert, the new Director of Athletics, will be introduced at 3 p.m. at the Garza Gym Annex.
  
  [...]
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  Posted: November 17, 2008, 1:10pm EST
  

• BISD Board to Discuss Superintendent's Evaluation, Again

  The BISD Board of Trustees, with its new board members, will discuss the superintendent’s evaluation at Tuesday’s 5:30 p.m. regular meeting at the Administration Building.
  
  Tuesday’s agenda reflects the following under Closed Meeting, Personnel Matters:
  
  71. Superintendent’s Evaluation. (Board Member Request); and
  
  [...]
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  Posted: November 17, 2008, 11:01am EST
  

• UTB-TSC, Wells Fargo Announce Business Plan Competition

  
  

  People who have ideas for starting and owning a business are invited to enter the first Rio Grande Valley Business Plan Competition sponsored by The University of Texas at Brownsville and Texas Southmost College and Wells Fargo.

  Contestants must submit an intent-to-compete form by Friday, [...]

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  Posted: November 14, 2008, 11:37am EST
  

• SPI Dune Restoration Volunteer Day Saturday

  
  
  Dune Restoration Volunteer Day
  
  Please join the Town of South Padre Island, The University of Texas at Brownsville and Texas Southmost College and the Artist Boat in their efforts to re-vegetate sand dunes affected by Hurricane Ike.
  
  Saturday, Nov. 15
  9 [...]
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  Posted: November 11, 2008, 1:28am EST
  

• MALC to Hold Border Wall Hearing Thursday

  
  The Mexican American Legislative Caucus-Texas House of Representatives (MALC) will hold a hearing at 8 a.m. Thursday regarding the construction of a wall along the Texas-Mexico border.
  
  The hearing will be held in the House Appropriations room, E1.032, in the Capitol Extension in Austin, [...]
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  Posted: November 10, 2008, 10:43pm EST
  

• Mayor Seeks Volunteers for PAWS

  Below was submitted by Mayor Pat Ahumada:
  
  PAWS Committee meets the first Friday of the month at Pet Smart, at 6:00 p.m. We need serious and consistent volunteers to help with adoptathons at the Flea Market and Pet Smart on weekends. We also need those [...]
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  Posted: November 06, 2008, 9:23pm EST
  

• Cameron County Bar Association Releases Judicial 2008 Poll Results

  The Cameron County Bar Association completed its 2008 judicial evaluation poll to inquire into the performance of the judges sitting and regularly holding court in Cameron County. The poll reflects opinions on the administration of the judicial business of their respective Courts.
  
  The Cameron County [...]
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  Posted: November 05, 2008, 9:40pm EST
  

• Contractor to Foot Bill for Defects in Sports Park's Softball Fields

  
  The Brownsville Community Improvement Corporation Board has one less high-dollar change order to worry about for the Sports Park.
  
  The BCIC Board discussed last month holding someone accountable for the Park's defected softball fields that have already resulted in erosion and drainage problems.
  
  [...]
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  Posted: November 05, 2008, 8:43pm EST
  

• Yes. You. Can. President-elect Barack Obama.

  [...]
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  Posted: November 04, 2008, 10:04pm EST
  

• Believing in the Political Process

  
  “Down here, a graduation from college is a moment of celebration and pride. Lately, I have discovered that same pride from those who have voted for the first time.”
  -Michael Siefert
  Priest at San Felipe de Jesus,
  a Roman Catholic church he helped [...]
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  Posted: November 04, 2008, 11:23am EST
  

• [nt]

  [...]
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  Posted: November 04, 2008, 12:35am EST
  

• Commissioner Atkinson Responds to Mayor's Comments

  
  Commissioner Charlie Atkinson submitted this response to Mayor Pat Ahumada's comments about today's City Commission meeting. The Mayor's comments were previously posted on BATB.
  
  -Melissa
  
  ----------------------------------------------------
  
  Hey Pat,
  
  I don't want P.U.B. to give back the 18 million. I [...]
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  Posted: November 03, 2008, 10:45am EST
  

• City of Brownsville Revamps Web site

  
  Check out the new design for the City of Brownsville Web site.
  
  Click here. [...]
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  Posted: November 03, 2008, 10:05am EST
  

• Mayor Comments on Monday's City Commission Agenda

  Below are two separate comments submitted by Mayor Pat Ahumada on Monday's City Commission agenda concerning his right to vote at meetings and the city attorney agenda items.
  
  Melissa
  
  ------------------------------
  
  Comment submitted on the mayor's voting power at meetings:
  
  It has always [...]
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  Posted: November 02, 2008, 10:27am EST
  

• Mayor's Right to Vote at Meetings Revisited

  
  As mentioned previously on BATB, the Charter Review Committee voted to amend Section 12 of Article V concerning the mayor's right to vote at meetings. The City Commission voted months ago to follow Robert's Rules of Order which subsequently removed the mayor's right to [...]
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  Posted: November 01, 2008, 12:09pm EDT
  

• City Attorney's Employment on Tuesday's City Commission Agenda

  
  City Commission agenda item of interest for Monday's meeting:
  
  EXECUTIVE SESSION: 5:30 P.M.
  
  A) Discussion pursuant to Section 551.074, of the Texas Government Code,
  regarding the appointment, employment, evaluation, reassignment, duties,
  discipline, resignation or dismissal of the City Attorney of the City of
  [...]
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  Posted: October 31, 2008, 3:44pm EDT
  

• Happy Halloween!

  [...]
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  Posted: October 31, 2008, 3:30pm EDT
  

• Brownsville's Homeless

  
  I received a very moving e-mail in response to a Brownsville Herald article that appeared in today's paper. The article is about a homeless man who sought shelter in a dumpter and got his legs crushed by a garbage truck.
  
  I wanted to [...]
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  Posted: October 30, 2008, 3:01pm EDT
  

• Galveston’s Moody Gardens Animals Find Refuge at Gladys Porter Zoo

  
  Hurricane Ike left more than just people displaced from their homes. More than 100 animals from Galveston’s Moody Gardens have been moved to South Texas’ Gladys Porter Zoo due to the severity of the damage sustained by the organization’s Rainforest exhibit.
  
  About 80 [...]
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  Posted: October 27, 2008, 12:28pm EDT
  

• UTB-TSC Men's Soccer Team Wins Conference Championship

  
  The UTB-TSC men's soccer team wrapped up its second straight Red River Athletic Conference championship with a 2-0 victory Friday over Southwestern Assemblies of God University in Waxahachie.
  
  The Scorpions remained unbeaten in RRAC play with a 6-0 record and are now 11-4 overall.
  [...]
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  Posted: October 25, 2008, 12:57pm EDT
  

• Gone A-stray? Mayor's E-mail Pet Plea Sparks Debate

  
  I've been witness to an interesting exchange of e-mails today. I'm part of a mass e-mail list that Mayor Pat Ahumada uses to distribute info on pet adoptions, strays, etc. He doesn't e-mail often, but an e-mail he sent today sparked a couple responses. Below [...]
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  Posted: October 23, 2008, 1:52pm EDT
  

• Point of Order

  Revised to further clarify my opinion instead of that of the committee majority. For a better understanding of what transpired, watch the video once posted at CafeBrownsville.com.
  
  
  There was a great discussion at today’s Charter Review Committee meeting that warrants mentioning here.
  
  [...]
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  Posted: October 21, 2008, 10:06pm EDT
  

• BISD Parents: Check Your Child's Grades Daily ONLINE

  
  Brownsville Independent School District teachers are now posting grades almost daily online, and they are accessible to parents. Teachers also have their e-mails posted so you may contact them, and notes are often attached to respective grades.
  
  If you don't have time to visit [...]
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  Posted: October 20, 2008, 9:36pm EDT
  

• Vague Meeting Agendas May Be in Violation of TOMA

  A reader brought this Dallas Morning News article to my attention today. The article covers a Texas Attorney General Opinion released this month on how vague meeting agenda items do not adequately inform the public. Examples of such agenda items are: "Superintendent's Report," "Mayor's Report, "Chairman's Report" and "Council and [...]
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  Posted: October 20, 2008, 7:11pm EDT