Laredo Watch

EARLY VOTING TOTALS

2010-11-02T16:24:00.000-07:00

MAYOR
Raul G. Salinas 6830 47.41
Jose A. Valdez, Jr. 3065 21.27
James Joel Newland 255 1.77
Juan Ramirez 608 4.22
Gene Belmares 3649 25.33

MUNICIPAL COURT CLERK
Charles David Wise 808 5.68
George Victor Garcia II 330 2.32
Madeline Lopez‐Escoto 3977 27.95
Juan Caballero 4098 28.8
Rosie Cuellar‐Castillo 5015 35.2

DISTRICT I
Rolando "Roli" Garcia 756 40.8
Mike Garza 1097 59.2

DISTRICT II
Esteban Rangel 933 60.51
Barney Garcia 171 11.09
Victor M Garcia 428 27.76
Armando Cisneros (Write‐In) 10 0.65

DISTRICT III
Michael Landeck 505 33.87
Alejandro Perez, Jr. 351 23.54
Jesus "Chuy" Romero 226 15.16
Ricardo "Ricky" Hinojosa 216 14.44
Abraham Rodriguez 193 12.94

DISTRICT VI
Charlie San Miguel 934 26.81
Orlando "Orli" Navarro 876 25.14
Fred Santos 612 17.57
Emilio Martinez 247 7.09
B Javier Mendoza 349 10.02
Manuel "Manny" Arechiga, Jr. 466 13.38

Kellogg recall: Apple Jacks, Corn Pops, Froot Loops, Honey Smacks

2010-06-25T14:32:00.000-07:00

Kellogg Co. is voluntarily recalling about 28 million boxes of Apple Jacks, Corn Pops, Froot Loops and Honey Smacks cereals because an unusual smell and flavor from the packages' liners could make people ill, the company said Friday.

Consumers reported the cereal smelled or tasted waxy or like metal or soap.

The products were distributed throughout the U.S. and began arriving in stores in late March. Only products with the letters "KN" following the use-by date are included in the recall.

Firefighter indicted for assault

2010-06-16T18:39:00.000-07:00

33 year old Laredo firefighter Marcos Gomez has been indicted by a grand jury for assault causing bodily injury. The incident took place April 24th and it involved him and his wife. A relative of the couple reported the assault to police. The incident took place at their residence on Kingwood drive.

Gomez is currently on suspencion pending the outcome of the case, according to fire department officials.

LISD to form alternative high school

2010-06-15T21:09:00.000-07:00

LISD Board of Directors discussed a new high school for students that have already dropped out of class and want to return to their education.

"This high school would be designed for the student who has dropped out of an LISD high school and decided that was a really bad mistake and they really want to come back into school and earn their diploma", Veronica Castillo of LISD said. The high should be up by next year and expects close to hundred students in the inagural class. Meanwhile, UISD officials are also working on a similar venue.

In Oval Office Speech, Obama Puts Focus on Energy Policy

2010-06-15T18:35:00.000-07:00

President Obama summoned Americans on Tuesday to a “national mission” to move away from reliance on oil and develop alternative sources of energy, demanding that Congress move quickly to overcome “a lack of political courage and candor.”

Speaking to a national television audience from the Oval Office, Mr. Obama also promised a long-term plan to make sure that the gulf states suffering from the oil spill are made whole again. He said he was appointing Ray Mabus, the secretary of the Navy and the former governor of Mississippi, to develop a Gulf Coast restoration plan in cooperation with states, local communities, tribes, fishermen, conservationists and gulf residents.

BP officials are adamant that the company should not be liable for the lost wages of oil workers laid off because of the six-month moratorium that the Obama administration imposed on deepwater offshore drilling after the Deepwater Horizon explosion and fire. But Interior Secretary Ken Salazar and other administration officials repeatedly have cited idled oil workers as among those who could press claims.

Watch video here: http://www.whitehouse.gov/photos-and-video/video/president-obama-s-oval-office-address-bp-oil-spill-energy

Menoza announces run for City Council

2010-06-14T20:59:00.000-07:00

Javier "B" Mendoza has announced his candidacy for City Council district 6. The seat is currently held by Gene Belmares, who is running for Mayor. Mendoza is president of Mendoza Maintenance Group and former owner of Sal's Pizza. He is a licensed real estate agent and former teacher. Mendoza wants improve city employee's health and wellness programs as well as develop business in the Laredo area. He will face Orlando Navarro and Fred Santos in the November city elections.

For more information, visit:
http://www.bmendoza2010.com/

Rihanna will visit Laredo in July

2010-06-14T20:09:00.000-07:00

R&B superstar Rihanna will visit Laredo in July to perform alongside KE$HA and Travie McCoy. The concert will take place at the Laredo Energy Arena on July 24, 2010 at 8pm. Tickets will go on sale Saturday June 19, 2010 at 10am. Ticket prices are $122, $82, $62, $32 (facility fees not included). Meanwhile, Rihanna was scheduled to perform in Phoenix, Arizona on June 14th, the date of the announced concert but was cancelled, no reason was given to the venue.

Politicos start campaigning

2010-06-14T20:03:00.000-07:00

Numerous candidates running for city office in the November elections have started placing banners and signage in walls announcing their names and office they are running for. An example cited is the race for Laredo Mayor, Councilman Gene Belmares and Mayor Raul Salinas are two candidates who have placed their names upon walls and billboards.

Current city ordinance makes it illegal to post campaign material several months before an election. In an interview given by another media outlet, Belmares and Salinas said they were against this ordinance and is their first amendment right. Other citizens say they agree but candidates should still follow the law. Some say if the ordinary citizens are told to respect a law or city ordinance in effect, our leaders should too. City officials, meanwhile say they will try to repeal or amend this ordinance and have no plans to give citations to candidates.

Man found dead on side of road

2010-06-14T19:59:00.000-07:00

An unidentified man was foun dead and decompsed 50 yards from a busy road. The body was found at Sierra Vista and Zapata Highway by truck driver. The case is currently under investigation.

Laredo Watch back online

2010-06-14T19:56:00.000-07:00

Laredo Watch will be revived after being on hiatus for several months; yes news will be posted daily now. This is the news blog that has brought you election results first than anyone else, the blog that reported first on several news issues throughout the last year. This website will continue to provide you with the very latest in your community.

RUN-OFF ELECTION results

2010-04-13T16:27:00.000-07:00

Monica Zapata-Notzon is has won the 111th District Court seat. She is at 56% of the early voting results.

Danny Valdez and Tano Tijerina are neck and neck, this race is still too close to call. Valdez currently has the edge with 52% of the early voting results.

Jaime Canales will unseat Keko Martinez for the Commissioner pct. 4 race. Canales has received 63% of the vote in early voting.

Wawi Tijerina will remain seated as Judy Gutierrez couldn't get enough votes to win.

Danny Dominguez and Ramiro Veliz are also too close to call, though Veliz is likely to win.

Esther Degollado will win to serve as District Clerk.

Salinas endorses Gutierrez

2010-03-20T11:05:00.000-07:00

Jose Salinas, former commissioner Pct. 2 candidate is endorsing Judith Gutierrez for the County Commissioner Pct. 2 race against incubent Wawi Tijerina. Tijerina is upset at his endorsement and is saying Gutierrez offered Salinas a job with the county in exchange for the endorsement. Gutierrez says says that Ms. Tijerina is spreading this lie in order to discredit Mr. Salinas.

Zetas plan to make Nuevo Laredo their base of operations

2010-03-03T18:28:00.000-08:00

Several news sources say that Zetas have moved out of Reynosa, Mexico and going into Nuevo Laredo. intelligence sources say the group wants to take over the city and make it their base of operations.

700 Zetas from around Mexico are joining the 500 already brought to the area last week. This week The U.S. Consulate General's office has already confirmed a gunbattle in Nuevo Laredo. It's happening near Boulevard Colosio and the city's zoo. the consulate general's office is telling all U.S. citizens to take shelter until the fighting stops.

Run-offs set for April 13th

2010-03-03T15:52:00.001-08:00

Webb County will be seeing several run-off on April 13th.

These races will have a run-off. Incumbent Danny Valdez will face Tano Tijerina. For District Clerk, Esther Degollado will face Sylvia Palumbo. In the Pct. 2 Commissioner's race, Incumbent Wawi Tijerina will face former Commissioner Judith Gutierrez. Sergio Keko Martinez, the incumbent will face Jaime Canales in the run-off for Commissioner Pct. 4. Monica Zapata Notzon and Jesus Chuy Dominguez will face off for the 111th District Judge race. Finally, Ramiro Veliz, Jr. the incumbent and Daniel "Danny" Dominguez will face off for the Justice of the Peace, Pct. 2 seat.

County Judge candidates Andy Reyes and Louis H. Bruni have both endorsed Tano Tijerina for the County Judge race against incumbent Danny Valdez.

EARLY VOTING RESULTS

2010-03-02T17:29:00.000-08:00

Several incumbents keep seat. Oscar O. Martinez, Sergio Mora, Oscar Lieno, Diana Perales and Margie Ibarra have all won re-election.

In state elections, Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison conceded the Republican nomination to Texas governor Rick Perry. Houston Mayor Bill White won the democratic nomination. Meanwhile, the Webb County elections office reported a possbile error with almost 1,000 votes due to electronic machines used for the disabled.

Run-off's will occur in the following races:

COUNTY JUDGE between Tano Tijerina & Danny Valdez
DISTRICT CLERK between Esther Degollado and Sylvia Palumbo
JUSTICE OF THE PEACE, PCT. 2 between Ramiro Veliz and Danny Dominguez

Still to close to call are for the following races:

JUDGE 111TH DISTRICT COURT
Notzon 45%
Arce 27%
Dominguez 28%

Comm. Pct 4
Martinez 41%
Chavez 14%
Canales 46% *Juan Chavez is out for this race

Comm. Pct 2
Tijerina 49%
Gutierrez 36%
Salinas 16% *Jose Salinas is out for this race

-------------- EARLY VOTING RESULTS BY RACE>>>>>>

JP PCT 4:::
OSCAR O. MARTINEZ 68%
VICKY CANTU 32%

DEMOCRATIC PARTY CHAIR:::
SERGIO MORA 65%
ROLANDO HERRERA 35%

COUNTY JUDGE:::
TANO TIJERINA 36%
DANNY VALDEZ 41%
ANDY REYES 18
LOUIS H. BRUNI 5%

COMMISSIONER PCT.2 :::
WAWI TIJERINA 49%
JUDITH GUTIERREZ 36%
JOSE SALINAS 16%

COMMISSIONER PCT. 4:::
SERGIO MARTINEZ 41%
JAIME CANALES 46%
JUAN CHAVEZ 13%

JUDGE 111TH COURT:::
MONICA NOTZON 45%
ANDRIANA ARCE 27%
JESUS DOMINGUEZ 28%

JP PCT. 2:::
SANTOS BENAVIDES 14%
DANNY DOMINGUEZ 27%
RICARDO URDIALES 13%
RAMIRO VELIZ 43%
VICTOR SCHUNIOR 3%

COUNTY CLERK:::
LONNIE GARCIA 33%
MARGIE IBARRA 66%

DISTRICT CLERK:::
JACKIE RAMOS 16%
ESTHER DEGOLLADO 37%
LYDIA LIENDO PARRA 14%
SYLVIA PALUMBO 33%

TREASURER:::
DIANA PERALES 65%
JOSE VALDEZ 35%

Laredoans head to the polls

2010-03-01T19:28:00.000-08:00

Today is the day! election day is here and thousands of Laredoans will hit the polls to vote for their candidates. Voting will begin at 7:00 am and close at 7:00 pm. Stay logged in to Laredo Watch for the latest poll numbers and projections. Laredo Watch will have election day projections starting at 6:00 pm.

Police on alert after Nuevo Laredo violence

2010-03-01T19:25:00.000-08:00

Laredo police are on alert as of Monday night on International Bridge #1 due to reports of violence once again occurring in the sister city of Nuevo Laredo. A police spokesman says officials are on standby to deter any possible spill over from the sister city. Police officials urge Laredoan to stay away from traveling into Nuevo Laredo at this time.

Baby found dead in apartment; man found dead at home

2010-02-28T19:57:00.000-08:00

A three month old baby was found dead at an apartment complex Sunday afternoon on the 9800 block of Cantera Court. Local police officers are currently investigating the baby's death. Also, Sunday police responded to a medical call at the 3000 block of Garfield. Officials found a 28 year old man dead on the home. Police are also investigating this death.

Pre-Election projections

2010-02-28T11:34:00.000-08:00

Laredo Watch is making several projections for this Tuesday's election day primary in several key races. Please keep in mind to vote if you have not as your vote can decide who gets to represent you for the next four years. Many races will have a run-off.

Log on to Laredo Watch Tuesday night starting at 6:00 pm to see THE EARLY RESULTS OF EACH RACE! SEE THE RESULTS HERE, FIRST ONLY ON LAREDO WATCH!

WEBB COUNTY JUDGE - A run off is likely to occur. Danny Valdez, the incumbent and "Tano" Tijerina will face off in the run-off, while Andres "Andy" Reyes and Louis H. Bruni will finish third and fourth.

COUNTY COMMISSIONER PCT. 2 - Wawi Tijerina the incumbent, Jose Salinas and former Commissioner Judith Gutierrez are facing each other. This race will most likely see a run-off between Wawi Tijerina and Judith Gutierrez, though don't be surprised to see an upset second place by Salinas.

COUNTY COMMISSIONER PCT. 4 - Sergio "Keko" Martinez (incumbent) faces Jaime Canales as well as former city councilman Juan Chavez. In this race another run-off is likely to occur. This time between Martinez and Canales, Chavez will garner third place.

JUSTICE OF THE PEACE, PCT 2, PLC 1 - In this five way race a run -off is destined to be seen. Ramiro Veliz, the incumbent faces four challangers, Daniel "Danny" Dominguez, Victor M. Schunior, Ricardo Urdiales and Santos Benavides. A run-off is likely to occur between Veliz and Urdiales. Dominguez will be in third place while Benavides will garner fourth place.

COUNTY TREASUER- Delia Perales (Incumbent) and Jose A. Valdez face each other. No run-off here, in this race Perales has the advantage.

COUNTY CLERK- Margie Ramirez Ibarra (Incumbent) and Longino "Lonnie" Garcia Jr are head to head in this race. Ibarra has the advantage though don't be surprised to see an upset by Garcia who is stronger this time since the last time he ran.

JUDGE, 111TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT- Adriana Arce-Flores, Monica Zapata Notzon and Jesus "Chuy" Dominguez are running here. Another run-off is likely to occur. Arce-Flores and Zapata-Notzon will have to face each other in the run-off.

JUSTICE OF THE PEACE PCT. 1, PL. 2- Oscar R. Liendo and Margarito Benavides face each other. Liendo will win in a landslide.

JUSTICE OF THE PEACE PCT 4- Oscar O. Martinez and Vicky Cantu face each other here. While Martinez faces his toughest re-election yet, he will win another term.

WEBB COUNTY DISTRICT CLERK- Jackie L. Ramos, Esther Degollado, Lydia Liendo Parra and Sylvia Palumbo are running as Manuel Gutierrez is retiring. Another run-off is likely to occur here. Ramos and Degollado will face each other in a run-off election.

Early voting is slow

2010-02-28T11:32:00.000-08:00

Oscar Villarreal, Webb County's election administrator said that only about 19,000 citizens went to the polls early to vote. Overall the amount of people going out to vote has been slow compared to other election cycles. Election day is Tuesday, March 2nd.

Violence spreads throughout Nuevo Laredo

2010-02-28T11:28:00.000-08:00

Violence continues in Nuevo Laredo while fears spread throughout two border cities. Local, state, and federal officers are monitoring the situation in the sister city to avoid any spill over to Laredo. News organizations in Nuevo Laredo are hush about any violence happening in their hometown due mainley to fear. Parents there are leaving their children at home instead of taking them to school. Residents stay at home instead of going shopping for fear of being killed.

Mayor Raul Salinas announces re-election

2010-02-14T15:59:00.000-08:00

Mayor Raul Salinas announced his re-election bid on Valentine's Day at a special dance party at the Casa Blanca Ballroom.

Salinas said his major accomplishments was able to get almost 90 million dollars in funds for the Camino Cuatro Vientos, they are building seven new inspection modules at the World Trade Bridge, and they've just inaugurated the project to refurbish the Jefferson water treatment plant.

The incumbent will have to face several candidates in the November elections, inculding, Councilman Gene Belamres.

Laredo Watch will be first to bring election results

2010-01-30T17:37:00.000-08:00

Stay tuned to Laredo Watch this March for the upcoming 2010 primary elections. Laredo Watch will post the latest and be the first to bring to you projections, polls and election results. Election day is Tuesday March 2nd, early voting before the March 2nd election will begin on Tuesday, February 16th and conclude on the 26th.

Laredo celebrates 15th annual ''Menudo Bowl''

2010-01-30T17:35:00.000-08:00

Hundreds of Laredoans attended the 15th annual ''Menudo Bowl'' on Saturday at LIFE downs grounds.

The event is used to raise funds for the Laredo Crime Stoppers program. The event held lots of fun and games for all the family, there will also be music, dancing, food stands, motorcycle exhibits, old car exhibits, horses and a playground for the children.

High school students register to vote

2010-01-30T17:33:00.000-08:00

High school students at Vidal M Trevino magnet school conducted a voter registration drive Friday.

Several students went to area LISD high schools to talk abou the importance of voting. They are currently planning their annual "Rock the Vote" event scheduled for Tuesday, February 2nd on the campus ground in downtown Laredo.

Salinas appears on CNN

2010-01-30T17:30:00.000-08:00

Laredo Mayor Raul Salinas appeared on CNN Friday morning. The mayor talked about government funding that is heading to the Gateway City through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. Salinas also talked about the recent bookstore closing, saying, "I am very confident that in the near future that we will have a new bookstore in Laredo because there’s a lot of enthusiasm".

List of candidates released

2010-01-06T18:06:00.000-08:00

Monday was the last for citizens to file a run for office in the March primaries. Several decided to run, some such as Councilman Hector "Tito" Garcia, Elda Rivera and former Sheriff Juan Garza decided against a run. Here's the final list:

WEBB COUNTY JUDGE::: Danny Valdez (Incumbent), "Tano" Tijerina, Andres "Andy" Reyes and Louis H. Bruni are confirmed to be running

COUNTY COMMISSIONER PCT. 2::: Wawi Tijerina (Incumbent), Jose Salinas and former Commissioner Judith Gutierrez

COUNTY COMMISSIONER PCT. 4::: Sergio "Keko" Martinez (Incumbent) will run for re-election, Jaime Canales will also run as well as former city councilman Juan Chavez.

JUSTICE OF THE PEACE, PCT 2, PLC 1::: Ramiro Veliz (Incumbent), Daniel "Danny" Dominguez, Victor M. Schunior, Ricardo Urdiales and Santos Benavides

JUSTICE OF THE PEACE, PCT 2, PLC 2::: Ricardo Rangel (Incumbent),

COUNTY TREASUER::: Delia Perales (Incumbent) and Jose A. Valdez

COUNTY CLERK:::: Margie Ramirez Ibarra (Incumbent) and Longino "Lonnie" Garcia Jr

JUDGE, 49TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT::: Joe Lopez (Incumbent)

JUDGE, 111TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT::: Adriana Arce-Flores, Monica Zapata Notzon and Jesus "Chuy" Dominguez will run as Raul Vasquez retires

JUDGE, COUNTY COURT AT LAW NO. 1::: Ben Morales (Incumbent)

JUDGE, COUNTY COURT AT LAW NO. 2::: Jesus "Chuy" Garza (Incumbent)

JUSTICE OF THE PEACE PCT. 1, PL. 2::: Oscar R. Liendo (Incumbent) and Margarito Benavides

JUSTICE OF THE PEACE PCT 4::: Oscar O. Martinez (Incumbent) and Vicky Cantu

WEBB COUNTY DISTRICT CLERK:::: Jackie L. Ramos, Esther Degollado, Lydia Liendo Parra and Sylvia Palumbo will be running as Manuel Gutierrez is retiring

DEMOCRATIC PARTY CHAIR:::: Sergio Mora (Incumbent) and Rolando Herrera

Alvino "Ben" Morales does not have an opponent for County Court at Law 1 Judge, as well as Jesus "Chuy" Garza, State Rep. Richard Raymond and Congressman Henry Cuellar will be unopposed for their primary.

Mexico announces capture of alleged drug lord

2010-01-02T20:43:00.000-08:00

Mexican police have captured alleged drug lord Carlos Beltran Leyva, just two weeks after his even more powerful brother was killed in a shootout with troops.

Two weeks ago, his brother Arturo, reputed chief of the Beltran Leyva cartel, was killed in a shootout with Mexican marines in the central city of Cuernavaca. He was the highest-ranking cartel suspect taken down since Calderon sent tens of thousands of soldiers and federal police across the country three years ago to fight brutal drug gangs.

Mexican officials in the past have described Carlos Beltran Levya, 40, as a key member of the gang, but it was unclear if he took over as chief of the cartel after his brother died.

County Attorney suspended from practicing law

2010-01-02T18:03:00.000-08:00

Webb County Attorney Anna Cavazos Ramirez has been suspended from practicing law in the state of Texas.

According to the Texas Bar Association, Ramirez never sent in her attorney occupation tax exemption forms and has been suspended from practicing law in Texas since September 1, 2009.

Ramirez says that all forms were sent in back in June, along with paperwork and bar fees of 11 other county attorneys, and doesn't understand why her bar fee was processed while her tax exemption form was not.

Until her suspension is over, Ramirez is not allowed to offer any legal advice. Offering legal advice is part of her duty as county attorney. Since September 1st, she has done so numerous times. Ramirez claims she was unaware she had been suspended from practicing law until recently.

Couple accused of animal cruelty

2010-01-01T18:04:00.001-08:00

40 year old Sandra Ruiz and 45 year old Felipe Ruiz have been arrested being accused of animal cruelty.

The couple left their dog without food or water for several days. Police noticed visible signs of dehydration by the K-9.

Laredoans ring in 2010

2009-12-31T16:59:00.000-08:00

Lareoans are ringing in the new year as a decade closes. Laredo Watch will be updating and imporving the website to bring you the latest in news coming soon in 2010.

Some major local stories this year:
> Death of baby Katerine Cardenas
> Henry Flores arrested
> Patricia Barrea corruption case

Some major national stories:
> Michael Jackson's death
> Death of major celebrities and personalities (Ted Kennedy, Patrick Swayze, Ed McMahon & Walter Cronkite)
> Obama inaugurated as President
> Economy
> H1N1 Flu
> "Tea Parties"
> Cash for Clunkers

153 HIV/AIDS cases seen in Laredo

2009-12-27T20:04:00.000-08:00

Laredo is closing 2009 with a total of 153 HIV/AIDS cases for this year. In total the Laredo Health Department has seen 457 postive HIV / AIDS cases since 1985.

The cases seen are currently being attended by the local health sector with all expenses covered.

East Texas murder suspect apprehended at U.S. border in Laredo

2009-12-20T15:08:00.000-08:00

Police apprehended a murder suspect who they thought might be headed towards West Texas at the U.S. border near Laredo.

John Jacob Presley is wanted in Nacogdoches, Texas for the murder of his wife, Stephanie. Law enforcement found her body Thursday morning in a wooded area near the Rusk County line, in East Texas.

Kinky Friedman announces switch to Ag Commissioner

2009-12-20T15:03:00.000-08:00

Following meetings with Mayor Bill White and Businessman Farouk Shami, Kinky Friedman announced that he is abandoning his campaign for Texas Governor and entering the race to become the Democratic nominee for Texas Commissioner of Agriculture.

"This has never been about me; this has always been about what is best for the people of Texas and the Democratic Party," Friedman stated. "After my visit with Bill my mind was made up. There is a clear alternative for the people of Texas, and today I'm changing courses with a happy heart. I've determined that the best way that I can help the ticket and serve Texas families is by switching to the Ag Commissioner's race. Former Texas Agriculture Commissioner, Jim Hightower explained how much the office does and how much potential there is to do more."

Friedman captured 12% of the vote for Texas governor in 2006 as an independent.

Book store set for Laredo's future

2009-12-20T14:53:00.001-08:00

With the closing of B. Dalton Booksellers, the only book store in Laredo. Through sources, Laredo Watch can confirm that Laredo will get another book store in the future. While the details and comapny information are undisclosed, there is a process currently in the works for a book store of such to be opened sometime next year.

Currently locations in the Laredo area are being sought for the new book store. Keep logging on for more information as we post.

New Representative in Webb Finance Committee

2009-12-20T14:48:00.000-08:00

The Webb County Bail Bond Board chose Vicky Cantu as their new representative for the County's finance committee.

"I am proud to work and serve almost 30 companies in the sector, taking care of the interests and complying with the operative ordinances," Cantu says.

The committee regulates the operations of the bail bond companies to safeguard the interests of the community and the rights and obligations of the businesses in the county.

The committee president includes; Judge Alvino "Ben" Morales, head of Law Court No. 1, and other judge members, including Elma Teresa Salinas Ender and Alfonso Ornelas, as well as Manuel Gutierrez, and Treasurer Delia Perales.

Cantu is currently running for Justice of the Peace against Judge Oscar O. Martinez.

Lil' Wayne comes to Laredo; Saturday night show

2009-12-19T10:28:00.000-08:00

The Lil’ Wayne concert has been rescheduled for 7:30 p.m., Saturday, at the Laredo Entertainment Center, officials said.

Border Patrol agents discovered marijuana residue in the trash can of one of his tour buses Friday afternoon. Lil’ Wayne, is scheduled to be sentenced for weapons charges in New York in February.

Lil' Wayne Detained By Border Patrol; Laredo Concert postponed

2009-12-18T17:22:00.000-08:00

Hip Hop artist Lil' Wayne was detained by the U.S. Border Patrol at the Falfurrias Checkpoint Friday evening.

Lil' Wayne whose real name is Michael Carter, Jr., is being held along with eleven other people after officials found an undisclosed amount of marijuana on two tour buses.

Lil' Wayne was set to play a sold out concert in Laredo tonight at the Laredo Entertainment Center. The concert has been postponed until furter notice.

Man shot dead in early morning hours

2009-12-15T15:14:00.000-08:00

An 18 year old man is shot dead this morning in the sout side. The incident occured at five o'clock Tuesday monring in the 13-hundred block of Eisenhower.

Police say the man died from a gun shot wound to the his upper body. Police say the weapon used belongs to a Border Patrol agent, who is the victim's older brother.

Sources say the brother was the person who shot the man, police officials are currently investigating this incident. Sources say this was an accident.

Firefighter pleas guilty

2009-12-09T15:19:00.000-08:00

Thirty-nine year old Luis Rolando Garcia, a Laredo firefighter pleaded guilty in the 406th District Court.

He is being charged with sexually abusing a male relative over the span of three years, from when he was 10 years old.

The victim came forward to police eleven years later. Garcia's sentencing is set for February 19th.

Running for office? file now

2009-12-09T15:15:00.000-08:00

According to the Democratic Chair, Sergio Mora the last day to file for office in the Democratic Party is January 4th, 2010. Those wishing to register to run for a political office must register on this date.

Here is a current list of candidates for the March primaries:

WEBB COUNTY JUDGE::: Danny Valdez (Incumbent), "Tano" Tijerina, Andres "Andy" Reyes and Louis H. Bruni are confirmed to be running

COUNTY COMMISSIONER PCT. 2::: Wawi Tijerina (Incumbent), Fransico Salinas and former Commissioner Judith Gutierrez

COUNTY COMMISSIONER PCT. 4::: Sergio "Keko" Martinez (Incumbent) will run for re-election, Jaime Canales will also run as well as former city councilman Juan Chavez and former Sheriff Juan Garza

MUNICIPAL COURT JUDGE::: Rosie Cuellar-Castillo has been confirmed to be running as well as Juan B. Caballero and Charles Wise

JUSTICE OF THE PEACE, PCT 2, PLC 1::: Ramiro Veliz (Incumbent), Danny Dominguez, Victor M. Schunior, Ricardo Urdiales, Elda Rivera and Santos Benavides have been confirmed to be vying for this seat

JUSTICE OF THE PEACE, PCT 2, PLC 2::: Ricardo Rangel (Incumbent), another possible candidate includes Becky Soto

COUNTY TREASUER::: Delia Perales (Incumbent), Jose A. Valdez and Hector "Tito" Garcia have been confirmed to be running at this time

COUNTY CLERK:::: Margie Ramirez Ibarra (Incumbent) and Longino "Lonnie" Garcia Jr.

JUDGE, 49TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT::: Joe Lopez (Incumbent)

JUDGE, 111TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT::: Adriana Arce-Flores, Monica Zapata Notzon and Jesus "Chuy" Dominguez will run as Raul Vasquez retires

JUDGE, COUNTY COURT AT LAW NO. 1::: Ben Morales (Incumbent)

JUDGE, COUNTY COURT AT LAW NO. 2::: Jesus "Chuy" Garza (Incumbent)

JUSTICE OF THE PEACE PCT. 1, PL. 2::: Oscar R. Liendo (Incumbent)

JUSTICE OF THE PEACE PCT 4::: Oscar O. Martinez (Incumbent) and Vicky Cantu

WEBB COUNTY DISTRICT CLERK:::: Jackie L. Ramos, Esther Degollado, Lydia Liendo Parra and Sylvia Palumbo will be running as Manuel Gutierrez is retiring.

Classes will resume Thursday at Colonel Santos Benavides Elementary

2009-12-09T15:14:00.000-08:00

UISD has just cofirmed that students at Colonel Santos Benavides Elementary will return to class on Thursday after being closed for a day. The campus has a water line breakage and caused classes to be cancelled on Tuesday.

Lil' Wayne tickets go on sale

2009-12-04T22:17:00.000-08:00

Lil' Wayne tickets go on sale Saturday morning at the LEC box office. Several people braved the cold Friday night to stay in line to be one of the first to get tickets. The grammy won rapper will perform on December 18th at the Laredo Entertainment Center.

Judge Oscar Liendo to run for re-election

2009-12-04T22:15:00.000-08:00

Justice of the Peace Oscar Liendo for Precinct One, Place Two has announced that he will seek re-election next year.

Liendo says he hopes to continue programs he has initiated that help the elderly and at-risk youth. Liendo is the younger brother of long time Judge Jector Liendo, who serve side by side.

EXCLUSIVE: Bill White to run for Texas Governor

2009-12-03T18:13:00.000-08:00

Laredo Watch has confirmed from sources that Houston Mayor Bill White will place his hat in the ring for Texas Governor in the democratic primary.

White will make an official announcement Friday as he will give up his current campaign for Senator.

Prior to serving as mayor, White was a prominent businessman and later served as U.S. Deputy Secretary of Energy under President Bill Clinton from 1993 to 1995. He was rated Governing Magazine's Public Official of the Year in 2007. White will be endorsed by Tom Schieffer, who dropped out of the race several weeks ago.

Other democrats in the race are Farouk Shami and Kinky Friedman.

Burglers in south Laredo detained by police

2009-12-03T18:07:00.000-08:00

Four teens have arrested for terrorizing homes in Los Presidentes neighborhood. The teens are; Juan Alberto Moreno, 17, Alexis González, 17, and Ignacio González, 20, with a minor of 16 years of age.

Reports say the teens were stealing car stereos, speakers, and other objects of vehicles in the neighborhood.

Former Rio Bravo mayor arrested for theft

2009-12-03T18:03:00.000-08:00

Former Rio Bravo mayor Juan Gabriel Gonzalez is facing charges of theft stemming from a case when he was a mayor of Rio Bravo.

According to authorities Gonzalez had given away a city owned vehicle to somebody else and that vehicle had not been returned.

Gonzalez was also arrested in July of 2007 for driving while intoxicated. He is currently under investigation by the Texas Rangers on charges of theft.

UISD will not close school Friday

2009-12-03T18:01:00.000-08:00

Rumors have been circulating that UISD will close school on Friday due to harsh weather. That is not the case according to the district. Although temperatures are extpected to drop in the 30's and a freeze warning will be in effect, the district will keep schools open. District officials will monitor the weather. Meanwhile classes in Nuevo Laredo will be closed on Friday.

Four arrested on west side prostitution

2009-12-03T18:00:00.000-08:00

Four women have been arrested for prostitution as part of a special police operation in Laredo west side.

The four women arrested were 20-year-old Alison Nancy Garcia, 22 year old Esmeralda Arevalos, 48 year old Juanita Compean, and 44 year old Flor Chapa for prostitution.

One of the women, Arevalos was also charged with possession of cocaine.

Obama: 30,000 more troops to Afghanistan by summer

2009-12-01T15:38:00.001-08:00

President Obama is dispatching 30,000 more troops to Afghanistan, accelerating a risky and expensive war buildup, even as he assures the nation that U.S. forces will begin coming home in July 2011. The first new Marines will join the fight by Christmas. Obama also announced a start to a U.S. withdrawal by July 2011.

Cold is here to stay

2009-12-01T15:34:00.000-08:00

The cold weather Laredo is seeing will stay for a bit longer. Temperatures will be in the high 30s on Friday, with the weather getting warmer next Tuesday with the highs of 70. Laredo continue to see more rain later this week and early next week.

Laredoan crowned Miss Texas Teen USA

2009-11-29T19:50:00.000-08:00

Chelsea Morgensen of Laredo has been crowned Miss Texas Teen USA. She is only the second Laredoans to be chosen as miss Texas Teen USA.

Shoppers awake early for Black Friday

2009-11-27T09:45:00.000-08:00

Hundreds of Laredoans stood in lines in the cold early morning hours to grab a good deal.

Many were seen in lines reaching up to a block at Toys R Us and Best Buy. The local Toys R Us store opend at midnight, while Old Navy opened it's doors at 3 AM.

Mayor Raul Salinas headlined in Fox News

2009-11-27T09:42:00.000-08:00

Mayor Raul Salinas was headlined in Fox News for bringing troops home for the holidays.

Man killed on Zapata highway while crossing

2009-11-25T18:19:00.000-08:00

Police have identified 22 year old Orlando Gonzalez as the victim of an auto-pedestrian accident on the 4400 block of Zapata highway.

The incident occured around 6:30 Tuesday evening while Gonzalez crossed the busy highway from a local restaurant infront of Walmart.

He was killed instantly on inpact.

Man arrested for shoplifting JC Penny's

2009-11-25T18:13:00.000-08:00

24 year old Edwing Ahmed Alvarez was caught shoftlifting at the local JC Penny's in Mall Del Norte Tuesday.

Alavarez punched a hole in the retail's wall while store associates detained the man until police arrived.

He has other chrages under his belt of which include; prostitution, thefts, resisting arrest, and credit card abuse among other charges.

The 24 year old man was dressed as a woman at the time of his arrest.

Troops come home for the holidays

2009-11-25T11:53:00.000-08:00

The Laredo National Guard Bravo Company stationed in El Paso headed home Tuesday night for the holidays.

Dozens of family members were on hand to receive the brave men and women. All were delighted to have them for the three short days home.

Hollywood in Laredo? Council dreams idea

2009-11-22T14:11:00.000-08:00

The Laredo city council recently approved a resolution that will make it possible to attract the filmmaking industry right here in Laredo.

Members of the Film Commission of Texas will be in town December 3rd at La Posada Hotel. Councilmen Gene Belmares and Hector Garcia, both employees of La Posada say this will be a stepping stone to better things to come.

The workshop is named "When Hollywood comes to town" and is being sponsored by the Texas Film Commission together with the Leadership Institute of Texas.

Officials say film making in Laredo will help the economy and generate tourism.

H1NI flu shots available

2009-11-22T12:57:00.000-08:00

The Texas Health Department has created a vaccine locator online. The graphic indicated the areas in which local residentes can get an H1NI flu shot. As of press time all locations except the City of Laredo Health Department are temporarily out of stock.

Teens arrested for pot

2009-11-22T12:43:00.000-08:00

Two Laredo teens have been arrested for being busted with Marijuana in a drug free zone. 18 year old Kevin Richard Coria (pictured) and 17 year old Eleazar Eloy Lara are behind bars.

Police found less than five pounds of Marijuana in their possession during a routine traffic stop.

Man arrested on downtown murder

2009-11-22T12:42:00.001-08:00

76 year old Enrique González has been arrested for killing 29 year old Efraín Reyes of Nuevo Laredo in downtown Laredo. The shooting occured because of a ten dollar dispute between the killer and the vicitm. Gonzalez confessed to the killing of Reyes to Laredo police.

A handful of passerbyers witnessed the killing in public on Jarvis Plaza in downtown Laredo. The 29 year old was killed by a gunshot to the head dying neary a plaza bench.

Paul Young closes dealership

2009-11-20T17:27:00.000-08:00

Paul Young Auto has closed the Loop 20 dealership. The auto center has recently closed numerous sites around Laredo and the south east dealership is the latest victim. The closure is due to poor sales and the economy.

DPS warns Mexican gangs recruiting in schools

2009-11-19T16:37:00.000-08:00

The Texas Department of Public Safety is warning parents across the state to be aware of efforts by Mexican cartels and transnational gangs to recruit Texas youth in our schools and communities. These violent organizations are luring teens with the prospect of cars, money and notoriety, promising them if they get caught, they will receive a minimal sentence.

Laredo natives Gabriel Cardona and Rosalio Reta were recruited in their teens to be hit men for the Zetas. Cartels constantly seek new ways to smuggle drugs and humans into Texas are now using state based gangs and our youth to support their operations on both sides of the border.

Both local school districts say they are doing their part to avoid this in schools from assistance of Laredo Police and other law enforcement agencies.

Flores faces 8 years in state prison

2009-11-19T16:31:00.000-08:00

Former Webb County Clerk Henry Flores was sentenced to eight years in state prison Thursday morning. Judge Joe Lopez announced his sentence in which his defense team will appeal.

Person killed from shooting on site

2009-11-19T16:29:00.000-08:00

One person is dead after an afternoon shooting at Farragut and Salinas in downtown Laredo. People crowed the scene as they witnessed the shooting and the death of a 29 year old man yet unnamed to the public. The victim was from Nuevo Laredo, Mexico. Laredo police are currently investigating the incident and have a suspect in custody.

KGNS Director dies

2009-11-17T15:30:00.000-08:00

KGNS TV news director Ray Gomez passed away Tuesday morning. Gomez had been with Pro 8 News, the CW and Telemundo for several years as part of KGNS. He became ill over the past week and died because of the illness. Ray Gomez is survived by his wife Diana Fuentes, the editor of the Laredo Morning Times.

Investigation continues on LPD corruption

2009-11-16T17:56:00.000-08:00

One month ago Laredo Watch and San Antonio news outlets reported the case of possible Zeta and gang infiltration in the Laredo police department.

Readers have been asking, what if anything has been done? News sources say the investigation continues by the FBI and is a federal matter. The officers in question remain on the force assigned to office duty.

News sources also say that at least a handful of others are currently involved or have been involved in corruption involving illegal activity. At this time it is not known whether more officers are being investigated.

As of press time not one local news outlet has presented this information to the public. Many readers have been questioning: why do people from San Antonio know more about potential corruption in their community than they themselves?

Laredo Watch will keep you updated on this story.

See related story: BREAKING: Possible Zeta infiltration in Laredo police department

New attorneys backing Flores

2009-11-16T17:44:00.000-08:00

Former Webb County Clerk Henry Flores has replaced his attorney George Garcia with Zone Nguin and George Altgelt.

Flores is currently being tried in the 49th District Court, Monday he presented his new attorney's upon his sentencing.

The new attorney's are claiming Flores was on Prozac during the time of the alleged pick up of an eleven year old boy.

Flores plead guilty to soliciting a minor with intent to commit aggravated sexual assault earlier this month.

Wawi runs for re-election

2009-11-16T17:39:00.000-08:00

Webb County Commissioner Pct. 2 Rosuara “Wawi” Tijerina has made it official -- she will run for re-election.

Tijerina faces popular former Commissioner Judith Gutierrez in March 2010 election. The race is sure to bring up a heated campaign for this seat.

Music stars line up for Jalapeno

2009-11-14T20:03:00.000-08:00

The Jalapeno Festival that is; Jack Ingram, Cory Morrow, La Mafia and Duelo have been confirmed to hit the stage for the 32nd annual Jalapeno Festival.

The event takes place in a two day span, February 19th and 20th of 2010 and is part of the WBCA activities. Tickets are on sale now at O'Reilly's autoparts and Casa Raul.

Grandmother Killed on street

2009-11-14T19:59:00.000-08:00

59 year old Emigdnia Rodiguez died on impact as she walked a Laredo street while being hit by a truck. The lady was hit on the intersection of Chicago and Juarez late Friday night.

55 year old David Fraga, driver of the truck stopped and administered aid, he was cited for failure to yield to a pedestrian.

Martinez announces re-election; Cantu runs

2009-11-13T15:29:00.000-08:00

Justice of the Peace of Precinct 4, Oscar O. Martinez has announced he will officially run for re-election. Vicki Cantu, a bailbonds owner says she will challange him for the seat.

Martinez says he wants to finish several programs he is working on. Cantu says she wants an open door policy, assist the youth and bring a much needed change for the office. Elections take place in March of 2010.

Men rob movie theater

2009-11-11T16:01:00.000-08:00

Two men robbed Movies 12 located at San Bernardo around 2 o'clock Wednesday afternoon.

The men were wearing masks and forced their way inside the theater and robbed the office at knifepoint. They were able to get away with an undisclosed amount of money.

Police are currently looking for the men, they say the two men fled in a black passenger vehicle that is believed to be a Mitsubishi Galant.

Firefighter arrested after confessing to crime

2009-11-10T15:18:00.000-08:00

Firefighter Marcos Aranda has been arrested for damaging a vehicle at a local parking lot. Police obtained video survalence footage showing Aranda and an accomplice, his girlfriend, Erika Gallardo. Aranda confessed to the crime and both are being charged for Criminal Mischief. Reports say both Aranda and his girlfriend had an agruement with the vehicle's owner, a black Chevy pickup truck.

Aranda is a prominent member of the community. He was a quarterback for Cigarroa High who led the team to be the first high school to advance to regional quarterfinals. A south Laredo field is also named after him and participates in the yearly Guns 'N Hoses charity event.

Fire Chief Steve Landin will look into this matter and decide pending an investigation.

Dominguez announces candidacy for the 111th District Court

2009-11-10T15:07:00.000-08:00

Local attorney Jesus "Chuy" Dominguez has officially announced his candidacy for 111th District Court.

"I’m outgoing with the people. I belong to certain clubs. I’m a board member at one of the local schools, San Augustine, and doing that I believe what my parents have taught me is to give back and it's time for me to give back because Laredo has been good to me." Dominguez says.

Adriana Arce-Flores and Monica Zapata Notzon are the other candidates that have announced as incumbent Raul Vasquez retires.

Bank robber arrested

2009-11-10T15:04:00.000-08:00

Police have arrested 19-year-old Jose Carlos Gomez after he confessed to a bank robbery.

Gomez was taken for questioning by police and confessed for robbing the Compass Bank last month. He is being charged with felony robbery and is being held on a $20,000 bond.

Bucks' Levassuer wins weekly CHL award

2009-11-09T18:14:00.000-08:00

The Laredo Bucks, in conjunction with the Central Hockey League, announced Monday that J.P Levassuer has been named the Oakley/CHL goaltender of the week for November 9th.

22 year old Levassuer, a native of Victoriaville, Quebec was excited to win the award.

Thousands line up for H1N1 vaccines

2009-11-09T18:11:00.000-08:00

Close to 2,000 people attended the Laredo Health Department H1N1 vaccine clinic today.

The event took place at the Laredo Entertainment Center; The health department was administering the vaccine to those two to 24 years old.

Health department officials say they have plans to administer the vaccine at both Laredo school districs in the near future.

Man arrested for DWI with toddler

2009-11-08T20:01:00.000-08:00

20-year-old Rolando Anguiano of Laredo was arrested Saturday night on the 2800 block of Clark Blvd.

He was driving while intoxicated all while a two year old toddler was on board the vehicle. Anguiana was booked on DWI charges.

House votes 220-215 to pass landmark health care legislation

2009-11-07T20:41:00.000-08:00

The Democratic-controlled House narrowly passed landmark health care legislation Saturday night to expand coverage to tens of millions who lack it and place tough new restrictions on the insurance industry. Republican opposition was nearly unanimous with only one voting "yea". Congressman Henry Cuellar voted for the bill.

Cuellar called the bill "transformative" In his press release, he stated that the "...landmark bill is one of the most important votes this Congress will ever take. Senator Ted Kennedy once called health care reform ‘the great unfinished business of our country.’ Today, we are one step closer to finishing the job."

The 220-215 vote cleared the way for the Senate to begin debate on the issue that has come to overshadow all others in Congress.

Suspect arrested in hit & run with officer

2009-11-06T15:28:00.000-08:00

Laredo Police have arrested 65 year-old Carlos Perales who is currently in custody. He is being charged with stop and render aid.

According to police, he hit a LPD officer near the intersection of Loop 20 and Campos Wednesday evening and fled the scene. The police officer is in stable condition.

H1-N1 clinic set for LEC

2009-11-05T20:12:00.000-08:00

The Laredo Health Department has announced it will conduct an H1-N1 clinic at the Laredo Entertainment Center.

The clinic will occur on Monday, November the 9th and will onlt be given to people two to twenty four years of age. Health department officials say the dose of vaccine is nasal spray form.

The 2,000 "Swine Flu" vaccines will be available for the public, free of charge to those who qualify.

Laredo Medical Center to see multi-million dollar expansion

2009-11-05T17:01:00.000-08:00

Over twenty two million dollars in expansion will take place to improve the current Laredo Medical Center.

The expansion will increase the number of emergency rooms adding ten as well as add other features to the hospital. Construction is expected to be completed in late 2011.

Farouk Shami announces run for TX Governor in Laredo

2009-11-05T16:53:00.000-08:00

Farouk Shami, a prominent businessman and inventor made his announcement official for Texas Governor in Laredo.

Shami is founder of Farouk Systems, Inc. based in Houston and inventor of BioSilk and Chi hair porducts.

"We want things in US or in Texas. We want to create jobs. When you buy made in Texas the money stays in Texas." He says. "My business career proves it. I already created 1270 jobs, bringing back from Korea and China to Texas."

He will run as a Democrat in the governor's race which is set for March 2009. Running in the democratic primary are; Kinky Friedman, Ronnie Earle, Felix Alvarado, Hank Gilbert, Tom Schieffer and Mark Thompson

Outback Steakhouse closing doors forever

2009-11-05T16:39:00.000-08:00

Outback Steakhouse will be shutting it's doors forver come Saturday. The national restaurant chain in Laredo will be out for business, this according to their manager.

No specific reason has been given. A new CEO for the national franchise was chosen recently.

Henry Flores pleads guilty

2009-11-05T15:08:00.000-08:00

In surprising twist, Former Webb County Clerk Henry Flores pled guilty to charges of soliciting a minor.

The state agreed to drop the second charge of display of harmful material, therefor the state is recommending that he serve eight years in prison.

"I don't have any comment but you have to understand the situation how I'm feeling at the moment.", Flores said after he pled guilty. Flores will be sentenced on November 16.

Krispy Kreme employee exposes genetalia to child

2009-11-05T15:05:00.000-08:00

55-year-old Mauricio Pedraza, Jr. a Krispy Kreame employee at the Laredo location allegedly pulled his apron to the side and exposed himself to a 13-year-old girl. This occured while he was on the job making doughnuts. Sources say Pedraza had his pant zipper unfastened, therefor exposing his sexual organ.

Pedraza is being charged with indecency with a child through exposure.

12 die, 31 wounded in Texas Fort Hood shooting

2009-11-05T15:03:00.000-08:00

One U.S. soldier opened fire at a U.S. Army base in Fort Hood, Texas on Thursday, unleashing a stream of gunfire that left 12 people dead and 31 wounded. Authorities killed the gunman, and apprehended two other soldiers suspected in what appears to be the worst mass shooting at a U.S. military base.

All the casualties took place at the base's Soldier Readiness Center. President Barack Obama called the shooting "a horrific outburst of violence." He said it's a tragedy to lose a soldier overseas and even more horrifying when they come under fire at an Army base on American soil.

A law enforcement official identified the shooting suspect as Army Maj. Malik Nadal Hasan. The official said Hasan, believed to be in his late 30s, was killed after opening fire at the base.

Belmares will officially announce run for Mayor

2009-11-04T17:39:00.000-08:00

Distrcit six Councilman Gene Belmares will make his announcement for Mayor official this Friday. The announcement will take place at LIFE downs with a kick off celebration starting at 6 PM. Belmares is currently the only self proclaimed Republican on the city council. As of press time, he will face incumbent Raul Salinas, Councilman Jose Valdez, Jr. and Carlos Blanco, Jr.

Police officer injured in motorcylce

2009-11-04T17:27:00.000-08:00

A local police department officer was taken to the hospital Wednesday evening after being hit by a car.

Reports say the driver of the 80's Nissan was a hit and run, currently the officer is in stable condition.

Voter turnout low in Webb County

2009-11-03T19:19:00.000-08:00

Early voting for eleven Texas constitutional amendments was slow according to Webb County election officials.

Election day was no different with only 250 people voting in the first four hours. The slow voter turnout was slow throughout the state.

Belmares: calling eight-liner 's "out of control"

2009-11-03T19:14:00.000-08:00

According to city records the city of Laredo is now home to 59 eight-liner businesses and more than 5,000 machines are active in our area.

Councilman Gene Belmares told local media that "this is an issue that has gotten way out of control." Two new eight-liner establishments were up for approval on Monday's city council, only one was approved.

The two items brought up was to re-zone the areas to accomidate the eight-liner businesses.

Proposed Texas constitutional amendments

2009-11-03T15:09:00.000-08:00

Eleven proposed constitutional amendments go before Texas voters today, Tuesday.

The proposals passed both chambers of the Legislature with a two-thirds vote and must win voter approval to be added to the state constitution. The propositions are:

PROPOSITION 1: Authorizes financing methods for municipalities and counties to acquire buffer zones or open spaces next to military bases. The proposal could prevent encroachment next to the base and allow construction of roads, utilities and other infrastructure to promote the mission of a military base.

PROPOSITION 2: Allows the Legislature to provide for ad valorem taxation of a residence homestead solely on the basis of the property's value as a residence, not at the potentially higher commercial use value.

PROPOSITION 3: Provides for uniform standards and procedures for the appraisal of property for taxation. Texas lacks uniform standards, and proponents say this amendment would ensure that property in diverse parts of the state are valued using the same generally accepted practices.

PROPOSITION 4: Establishes a national research university fund to help emerging research universities achieve national prominence as major research universities. Those pushing the proposal say it will provide funding similar to what elevated Texas A&M University and the University of Texas to Tier One status, providing jobs and stature or the state. Others question whether now is the time to spend such money.

PROPOSITION 5: Permits the Texas Legislature to allow a single board of equalization for two or more adjoining appraisal entities. That means area appraisal boards can be consolidated if they choose.

PROPOSITION 6: Authorizes the Veterans' Land Board to issue general obligation bonds in amounts equal to or less than amounts previously authorized. It would prevent the land board from continually having to seek legislative authorization.

PROPOSITION 7: Allows an officer or enlisted member of the Texas State Guard or other state militia or military force to hold other civil offices. This would correct what some say is an oversight in the state constitution.

PROPOSITION 8: Authorizes the state to contribute money, property and other resources to establish veterans hospital. It's designed to speed up efforts to open a federal Veterans Administration hospital in the Rio Grande Valley, where residents currently must travel to San Antonio to receive some VA hospital services.

PROPOSITION 9: Protects the right of the public to access and use the public beaches bordering the seaward shore of the Gulf of Mexico. This would block private developers from restricting beach access to the public, but some say it could infringe on private property rights.

PROPOSITION 10: Limits elected members of the governing boards of emergency services districts to terms no longer than four years.

PROPOSITION 11: Prohibits governments from taking private property for private economic development to increase a tax base. It also limits the Legislature's power to grant eminent domain authority to a governmental entity.

Thieves burglarize Ez-Pawn

2009-11-02T18:37:00.000-08:00

Laredo police are investigating a break in at the Ez-Pawn located on Springfield and Clark. Thieves were able to get in through the roof of the shop. Employees don't know if the thieves got away with any items.

Laredo police raid 8-Liner business

2009-11-01T19:36:00.000-08:00

Police officials raided The Mystic amusement facility Sunday afternoon for handing out more than legal amount of cash allowed as prizes. The north laredo business is located at the intersection of Shiloh and McPherson.

The investigation took a month and in the end helped police raid almost 250 of the 8-liner machines; A further investigation is underway.

Mariachi Express robbed at gunpoint

2009-11-01T15:36:00.000-08:00

Mariachi Express in the 5100 block of McPherson was robbed at gunpoint just before five Sunday morning.

Police say a man entered the restaurant and pointed a gun at the clerk asking for money. Authorities are currently looking for the thief who was able to walk away with an undisclosed amount of cash.

Daylight saving time ends: Turn clocks back Sunday morning

2009-10-31T14:28:00.000-07:00

Don't forget to turn those clocks back this weekend. Daylight saving time ends Nov. 1. Early Sunday morning, folks will turn their clocks back ("fall back") one hour to resume standard time. That means we'll get an extra hour of sleep tonight, but, until the spring, we'll see darkness at an earlier hour.

While Judge Vasquez retires, two announce bid for seat

2009-10-31T11:04:00.000-07:00

Former U.S. Magistrate Judge Adriana Arce-Flores and Attorney Monica Zapata Notzon have announced their bid for the 111th District Court.

The seat currently held by Judge Raul Vasquez will be retiring.

Laredo's only book store closing

2009-10-31T11:00:00.000-07:00

B. Dalton Bookstore will be closing it's doors forver come December. The book sotre is Laredo's only remaning book store and is located in Mall Del Norte. Local officials and residents will be rallying behind a new major book store to open. Many say is a Barnes and Noble would do Laredo good. B. Dalton is part of the Barnes and Noble company.

Ex-KLDO anchor Lupita Benavides moves to KGNS

2009-10-29T15:08:00.000-07:00

Former KLDO anchor Lupita Benavides of Univision 27 has been hired by KGNS Pro 8 News. Benavides was laid off several months ago by Univision due to budget matters. She will make her debut tonight at ten on the channel 8 news program.